You know the kind of dreams you feel trapped in? I believe they're called nightmares. And I had one last night.
It was a dream which forced me to wake up my husband for comfort, check on my kids and shed a few tears. It was a dream that caused me to remember that bad things can happen really fast. One moment your life is "normal," and the next, your life becomes a nightmare.
My neighborhood, and the general NW section of DC has been experiencing what they call a "crime wave." People are being mugged at gunpoint on the streets while walking home from the metro. Homes are being broken into. And there have even been a few cases of people being attacked and robbed after getting out of their cars in front of their homes.
It has changed the way my husband and I operate on a daily basis. He no longer wears his ear phones while walking home at night. He has stopped wearing his father's watch for fear that it could be stolen at gunpoint. I am locking our car doors as soon as we are all buckled in. I am catching taxis home when I used to catch the metro and walk. What really irks me is that I have given up my after dinner head refreshing evening walks around the neighborhood. We have been told this is just a phase and once these guys are caught we will be able to return to "normal." Although it will be a new "normal," as we have now seen what can happen very close to home.
While I wouldn't say we are living in fear, we certainly have become more aware and cautious.
That brings me to my nightmare. My kids and I were headed out on a park date in our car with another Mom and her daughter. The kids were buckled into their car seats along with the other Mom. I was about to go back up our front path to lock up the house when I noticed a few slightly dodgy guys walking down the street. I figured it was broad day light and that I shouldn't be overly concerned. I did lock the car doors, just to be safe. I went in to lock up the house and set the alarm, which involves momentarily shutting the front door. I set the alarm, walked outside, and the car was gone. My kids were gone. The Mom and her daughter were gone. And the 2 dodgy guys were gone.
The rest of my nightmare involved panic, calls to 911, and the dark realization that my kids were missing.
Somehow I managed to escape the dream. But I can't explain how real it was when I was stuck in it.
I don't know why this dream was enough to motivate me to actually update my neglected blog, but I guess I wanted to share it as a reminder that stuff can happen quickly. Anyone who has lost their child in a grocery store, watched their child run out into a street or parking lot, or watched their baby fall off a bed or couch will tell you that. Bad s#%$ can happen fast.
As you may have guessed, I will now be more cautious when my kids are playing in the front of the house. While I am usually on top of them, there are times I have run into the house quickly to grab something. And while I am not going to live in fear, I am going to step up our families security so I don't have to face any real life nightmares.
Showing posts with label safety. Show all posts
Showing posts with label safety. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Saturday, June 18, 2011
The Office View
I have been working on unpacking our office. It has been a total mess since we moved in last October. I didn't want to hit the one year mark without having it set up. Why buy a house with an office if you're going to avoid it because the mess stresses you out?
So I have made it a bit of a "project" this week. Nap times have been spent moving stuff around, unpacking boxes, and generally trying to create some sense of order. I have been making progress and it feels good.
One benefit of being in the office is that I can see outside the front of our house. The other day I was at the desk when I saw a group of about 7 sketchy looking teenagers (I'm 35, so I can say that now) walking slowly down the street and staring into peoples homes and looking in car windows. It was broad daylight and they were obviously looking for trouble. I immediately went to shut my shade as I didn't want them coming up to ring the doorbell and waking the kids up (the babe has been home from school since Wednesday until the "camp" version begins on Monday).
A few of them proceeded to casually walk onto my neighbors lawn. She is a Stay-at-Home Mama like me and tends to keep her front door open. My heart started racing as I watched one of them pick up a scooter sitting on the lawn and walk off to the street with it. The gang kept moving and the scooter stealer scooted away with them.
I had a zillion thoughts racing through my mind. Before I could think too much about it I ran out to the street and started yelling at them, "Hey, that's not your scooter! Bring that back here!" I knew that if I didn't try and get the scooter back, I would beat myself up about it for weeks to come. To my surprise, the little thief stopped and headed back.
I glared at him and took the scooter. "That belongs to a 7 year old kid. How do you think he's going to feel when he realizes someone stole it?" I was so pumped up at this point I don't even remember what he said, or if he said anything at all.
There has been an "uptick" in crime in my neighborhood lately and we have been asked to report suspicious activity. There was recently an armed car jacking at a nearby intersection, there have been a lot of cars being broken into, and some assaults at near by bus stops. After staring at the "gang" in disbelief, I ran inside the house and called 911. I have never reported suspicious activity in my life, but I knew I had to make the call. I gave the operator the info and she told me they would send someone out.
When I later went to tell my neighbor what had happened, she mentioned she had seen a police cruiser driving by quickly and had wondered what was up. I have never seen a police car on our street, so was bummed I missed seeing the one police car I had been been involved in arranging for.
Anyway, I think I did the right thing, although when my husband returned from his business trip later that night, he asked if perhaps I should have let them go and just called 911. This thought had never occurred to me. I am a Mom and now I am a home owner and I don't want people to think they can come into our neighborhood and take things that don't belong to them. Needless to say I was glad we had an alarm system installed when we moved in. I don't know what retribution I could expect for interfering with an attempted scooter robbery, and I don't want to find out (I say that in jest, sort of).
So I have made it a bit of a "project" this week. Nap times have been spent moving stuff around, unpacking boxes, and generally trying to create some sense of order. I have been making progress and it feels good.
One benefit of being in the office is that I can see outside the front of our house. The other day I was at the desk when I saw a group of about 7 sketchy looking teenagers (I'm 35, so I can say that now) walking slowly down the street and staring into peoples homes and looking in car windows. It was broad daylight and they were obviously looking for trouble. I immediately went to shut my shade as I didn't want them coming up to ring the doorbell and waking the kids up (the babe has been home from school since Wednesday until the "camp" version begins on Monday).
A few of them proceeded to casually walk onto my neighbors lawn. She is a Stay-at-Home Mama like me and tends to keep her front door open. My heart started racing as I watched one of them pick up a scooter sitting on the lawn and walk off to the street with it. The gang kept moving and the scooter stealer scooted away with them.
I had a zillion thoughts racing through my mind. Before I could think too much about it I ran out to the street and started yelling at them, "Hey, that's not your scooter! Bring that back here!" I knew that if I didn't try and get the scooter back, I would beat myself up about it for weeks to come. To my surprise, the little thief stopped and headed back.
I glared at him and took the scooter. "That belongs to a 7 year old kid. How do you think he's going to feel when he realizes someone stole it?" I was so pumped up at this point I don't even remember what he said, or if he said anything at all.
There has been an "uptick" in crime in my neighborhood lately and we have been asked to report suspicious activity. There was recently an armed car jacking at a nearby intersection, there have been a lot of cars being broken into, and some assaults at near by bus stops. After staring at the "gang" in disbelief, I ran inside the house and called 911. I have never reported suspicious activity in my life, but I knew I had to make the call. I gave the operator the info and she told me they would send someone out.
When I later went to tell my neighbor what had happened, she mentioned she had seen a police cruiser driving by quickly and had wondered what was up. I have never seen a police car on our street, so was bummed I missed seeing the one police car I had been been involved in arranging for.
Anyway, I think I did the right thing, although when my husband returned from his business trip later that night, he asked if perhaps I should have let them go and just called 911. This thought had never occurred to me. I am a Mom and now I am a home owner and I don't want people to think they can come into our neighborhood and take things that don't belong to them. Needless to say I was glad we had an alarm system installed when we moved in. I don't know what retribution I could expect for interfering with an attempted scooter robbery, and I don't want to find out (I say that in jest, sort of).
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Crazy Heat
Today we got a break from the insane onslaught of excessive heat and humidity we've been experiencing here in DC. It was record breaking and suffocating and I am thrilled to report that it now seems to have moved on.
I think things tend to get a little crazy when it's severely hot outside. People just can't keep it together and all the basics are no longer so basic.
In the past 48 hours, I have seen a few of my newly planted flowers die (yes--from lack of water), brought both kids to the ER to have the little guy's eye area examined after a funky bug bite, and been hit by a car at a stop sign on the way to pick the babe up at yoga. All this, and the little guy got up at 5:30 am today. Needless to say I'd like to run off to the Bahamas now, alone.
Luckily I have a few other flowers which have survived, the car's bumper got a bit more banged up but no one was hurt, and the little guy was not diagnosed with cellulitis or any other funky infection thing.
The heat wave has subsided and hopefully our temporary state of chaos has come to an end.
Has anyone else out there been having a weird week?
I think things tend to get a little crazy when it's severely hot outside. People just can't keep it together and all the basics are no longer so basic.
In the past 48 hours, I have seen a few of my newly planted flowers die (yes--from lack of water), brought both kids to the ER to have the little guy's eye area examined after a funky bug bite, and been hit by a car at a stop sign on the way to pick the babe up at yoga. All this, and the little guy got up at 5:30 am today. Needless to say I'd like to run off to the Bahamas now, alone.
Luckily I have a few other flowers which have survived, the car's bumper got a bit more banged up but no one was hurt, and the little guy was not diagnosed with cellulitis or any other funky infection thing.
The heat wave has subsided and hopefully our temporary state of chaos has come to an end.
Has anyone else out there been having a weird week?
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Share the Road
This has nothing to do with how patient and positive a parent I am. It has to do with how I drive.
I like to think I am a pretty good driver (so does everyone, right?).
When the babe makes comments from the back about my driving, I politely tell her that I know what I'm doing and don't appreciate being told how to drive by a 4 year old.
When drivers behind me at red lights honk for me to turn right when it is clearly unsafe, I tend to stare them down in the rear view mirror and gesture at the traffic that I will no doubt run into if a turn is attempted. And no, I don't give people the finger (if my kids are in the car).
This morning, as we were driving to school, the second scenario occurred. We had just started our commute when this bow tie wearing Camry driver decided to honk and gesture at me at a red light. I dealt with it in the above described manner and thought I was done with it.
When the light turned green I proceeded to turn right, as did the driver behind me. He stayed behind me all the way until the next turn. And the next turn. And the next turn.
Honestly folks, my heart was thumping and I felt like I was going to start crying by the time we hit the third turn and he was still there staring at me at every light and stop sign. I've heard of road rage, and there is a lot of it in these parts (DC and Dallas have the longest commute times in the country). And while I knew I may be overreacting, some worst case scanarios starting running through my mind.
I wanted to call my husband and ask him what I should do, but I was driving, and frankly, I was concentrating on every move the guy behind me made. What was I going to do if he was still behind me when I had to park?
I remembered there's usually a police car parked outside an elementary school a block from the babe's school. Not knowing what else to do, I made a turn towards where I hoped the cop car would be parked. And that is where I lost my crazy friend. The police car wasn't even parked in front of the elementary school, so it wouldn't have done me much good anyway.
Was the guy just messing with me, or did he really need to follow my every move for 15 minutes straight? I had so many disturbing thoughts run through my head, but ultimately I was worried about the position I had put my 2 innocent children in. What if this guy was really a nut job?
Should I stop gesturing at people on the road? Should I not honk at people any more? Should I drop the parts of me which have become "agressive" on the road?
What would a patient and positive parent do? Be a good driver, that's what they'd do.
I like to think I am a pretty good driver (so does everyone, right?).
When the babe makes comments from the back about my driving, I politely tell her that I know what I'm doing and don't appreciate being told how to drive by a 4 year old.
When drivers behind me at red lights honk for me to turn right when it is clearly unsafe, I tend to stare them down in the rear view mirror and gesture at the traffic that I will no doubt run into if a turn is attempted. And no, I don't give people the finger (if my kids are in the car).
This morning, as we were driving to school, the second scenario occurred. We had just started our commute when this bow tie wearing Camry driver decided to honk and gesture at me at a red light. I dealt with it in the above described manner and thought I was done with it.
When the light turned green I proceeded to turn right, as did the driver behind me. He stayed behind me all the way until the next turn. And the next turn. And the next turn.
Honestly folks, my heart was thumping and I felt like I was going to start crying by the time we hit the third turn and he was still there staring at me at every light and stop sign. I've heard of road rage, and there is a lot of it in these parts (DC and Dallas have the longest commute times in the country). And while I knew I may be overreacting, some worst case scanarios starting running through my mind.
I wanted to call my husband and ask him what I should do, but I was driving, and frankly, I was concentrating on every move the guy behind me made. What was I going to do if he was still behind me when I had to park?
I remembered there's usually a police car parked outside an elementary school a block from the babe's school. Not knowing what else to do, I made a turn towards where I hoped the cop car would be parked. And that is where I lost my crazy friend. The police car wasn't even parked in front of the elementary school, so it wouldn't have done me much good anyway.
Was the guy just messing with me, or did he really need to follow my every move for 15 minutes straight? I had so many disturbing thoughts run through my head, but ultimately I was worried about the position I had put my 2 innocent children in. What if this guy was really a nut job?
Should I stop gesturing at people on the road? Should I not honk at people any more? Should I drop the parts of me which have become "agressive" on the road?
What would a patient and positive parent do? Be a good driver, that's what they'd do.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Buckling In
When it's time to go for a car ride, I usually open the back door by our side walk so the babe can climb into her seat while I walk around to the other side of the car with the little guy to buckle him in. I'll admit there have been a few times when I've lost concentration and started to go to the drivers seat instead of walking back around to the babe's side to get her settled. Don't worry, she never let's me get away with it.
As we were leaving for the park today, I was going about our routine and getting the little guy buckled in when the babe announced that I had better come back to put her in her seat properly or the police would come and put me in jail.
It's a good thing someone is paying attention.
As we were leaving for the park today, I was going about our routine and getting the little guy buckled in when the babe announced that I had better come back to put her in her seat properly or the police would come and put me in jail.
It's a good thing someone is paying attention.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
An Anniversary of Another Kind
A year ago today my Mom arrived from Ottawa. She had flown down with a day's notice because I needed her. We had just experienced one of the most frightening nights of our lives and my Mom knew it. I didn't have to ask her for help. She just offered to come, and I accepted.
On the 4th of July, 2009, I walked into the little guy's room to find an oscillating fan on fire, a room filled with noxious smoke, and my screaming 6 month old baby boy stuck in his crib. It is an image I will never forget. I can not believe a year has gone by since that day. I really tried my best not to dwell on it over this past weekend, but a one year anniversary of something so disturbing can not be forgotten.
My husband said we should take the opportunity to be thankful on the 4th because the little guy made it out of that room OK and the fire didn't spread to the rest of our house. I agree that we should celebrate our good fortune, but I also find myself asking, "what if." I try not to go there in my head, but sometimes I can't help it.
I wanted to share a few photos with you. It's not that I think you aren't following proper safety protocol in your home, it's that I want everyone to remember that bad things can happen and we need to be as aware and alert as possible when it comes to our kids and their safety.
I've said it before, and I'm going to say it again:
On the 4th of July, 2009, I walked into the little guy's room to find an oscillating fan on fire, a room filled with noxious smoke, and my screaming 6 month old baby boy stuck in his crib. It is an image I will never forget. I can not believe a year has gone by since that day. I really tried my best not to dwell on it over this past weekend, but a one year anniversary of something so disturbing can not be forgotten.
My husband said we should take the opportunity to be thankful on the 4th because the little guy made it out of that room OK and the fire didn't spread to the rest of our house. I agree that we should celebrate our good fortune, but I also find myself asking, "what if." I try not to go there in my head, but sometimes I can't help it.
I wanted to share a few photos with you. It's not that I think you aren't following proper safety protocol in your home, it's that I want everyone to remember that bad things can happen and we need to be as aware and alert as possible when it comes to our kids and their safety.
I've said it before, and I'm going to say it again:
Please install a smoke detector IN your child's bedroom.
Do not fully close your young child's bedroom door.
Have a working fire extinguisher on EVERY floor of your home.
Have a working fire extinguisher on EVERY floor of your home.
As parents we do our best. But it helps to learn from other's mistakes, and this is a mistake I don't want anyone else to make.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Shrek Glass Recall
We never go to fast food places with the kids. In that way, food allergies have been a blessing in disguise. My kids just don't understand what a Happy Meal is.
However, a few weeks ago, after we all picked up soil at the gardening center, we were driving back home and made an abrupt decision to pick up a cold drink at the golden arches drive through. They just happened to be selling Shrek themed glasses promoting the new movie. I got a huge rush of nostalgia as I remembered the days my family used to collect themed glasses from fast food restaurants. I convinced my husband we should get one for the babe.
It seemed like a lovely Puss in Boots glass. Very solid and a nice addition to our rather uninspired glass collection.
Then I get an email from my husband yesterday with a link to an article. There is a recall on the Shrek themed McDonald's glasses because the paint contains a carcinogen, cadmium, which can cause bone and kidney problems in children. REALLY? Is anything safe? I just wanted to get my kid a Shrek glass for crying out loud.
So I suppose that will be hitting the garbage. That's what we get for breaking down and supporting the evil empire.
Looks like we have Rep. Jackie Spier (D-CA) to thank for this recall.
For additional information, contact McDonald's at (800) 244-6227 or visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
However, a few weeks ago, after we all picked up soil at the gardening center, we were driving back home and made an abrupt decision to pick up a cold drink at the golden arches drive through. They just happened to be selling Shrek themed glasses promoting the new movie. I got a huge rush of nostalgia as I remembered the days my family used to collect themed glasses from fast food restaurants. I convinced my husband we should get one for the babe.
It seemed like a lovely Puss in Boots glass. Very solid and a nice addition to our rather uninspired glass collection.
Then I get an email from my husband yesterday with a link to an article. There is a recall on the Shrek themed McDonald's glasses because the paint contains a carcinogen, cadmium, which can cause bone and kidney problems in children. REALLY? Is anything safe? I just wanted to get my kid a Shrek glass for crying out loud.
So I suppose that will be hitting the garbage. That's what we get for breaking down and supporting the evil empire.
Looks like we have Rep. Jackie Spier (D-CA) to thank for this recall.
For additional information, contact McDonald's at (800) 244-6227 or visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Monday, May 24, 2010
The Basement
I suppose we all have our bad days. But from 5:00 pm to about 6:40 pm was a very rough patch for the kids and I.
Following my new parenting philosophy, "try harder," I had our after-school activities all planned out. I had even explained them to the babe on the way to school so she'd know what to expect in afternoon.
The plan:
Basement activities:
Our plan was moving along smoothly and we were having a grand 'ole time downstairs. The babe and I were kicking the soccer ball back and forth and the little guy was moving randomly from activity to activity. He decided to join his sister closer to the washer and dryer and touched the sliding door in front of the washer (I was also doing laundry). And BOOM. The whole door fell off the track and came slamming down to the floor. I don't know exactly what happened or how my little boy managed to not be crushed by the door, but today we realized, yet again, how precious life is.
The little guy was screaming, and the babe started screaming and I frantically tried to assess if my boy's foot had been broken and if we needed to go to the hospital. His leg was scraped, as was his foot, but considering what could have happened, we got off easy. I'm guessing he must have moved out of the way (quick kid!).
I was hugging both of them and telling them everything was going to be OK. I called my husband at work and while I was trying to explain what had just happened, the babe started screaming again and threw the plastic bowling ball at me.
I've noticed that she freaks out when the little guy gets hurt and I have to tend to him. This was just further proof that we have a jealousy issue on our hands and I have to be diligent in my efforts to give equal attention to both of them. It's just not as easy as it sounds, especially when a door has nearly crushed your 17 month old baby (today is his 17 month b-day, and yes, I know, he's not a baby anymore).
Sadly the babe was a nightmare until my husband got home. It brought me to my knees and had me wishing I could rewind to the afternoon when I was working on the basement so I could take down the crappy door. I really should have checked how secure it was before encouraging our play date down there (especially as the kitchen cupboard just fell on me 2 weeks ago!). Baby proofing 101, right?
Your whole life can change from one minute to the next. And I'm eternally grateful that this was another learning experience, and not a call to 911.
Following my new parenting philosophy, "try harder," I had our after-school activities all planned out. I had even explained them to the babe on the way to school so she'd know what to expect in afternoon.
The plan:
- water the vegetable garden
- prepare pineapple for a snack
- play sports in the basement
- have dinner
- watch some relaxing and educational television
Basement activities:
- jumping on trampoline
- kicking soccer ball around
- bowling set
- baseball set (both heavily padded)
- practicing dribbling the basketball (our new toddler basketball net should be arriving this week)
- rocking thingy
- giggling in the tent
Our plan was moving along smoothly and we were having a grand 'ole time downstairs. The babe and I were kicking the soccer ball back and forth and the little guy was moving randomly from activity to activity. He decided to join his sister closer to the washer and dryer and touched the sliding door in front of the washer (I was also doing laundry). And BOOM. The whole door fell off the track and came slamming down to the floor. I don't know exactly what happened or how my little boy managed to not be crushed by the door, but today we realized, yet again, how precious life is.
The little guy was screaming, and the babe started screaming and I frantically tried to assess if my boy's foot had been broken and if we needed to go to the hospital. His leg was scraped, as was his foot, but considering what could have happened, we got off easy. I'm guessing he must have moved out of the way (quick kid!).
I was hugging both of them and telling them everything was going to be OK. I called my husband at work and while I was trying to explain what had just happened, the babe started screaming again and threw the plastic bowling ball at me.
I've noticed that she freaks out when the little guy gets hurt and I have to tend to him. This was just further proof that we have a jealousy issue on our hands and I have to be diligent in my efforts to give equal attention to both of them. It's just not as easy as it sounds, especially when a door has nearly crushed your 17 month old baby (today is his 17 month b-day, and yes, I know, he's not a baby anymore).
Sadly the babe was a nightmare until my husband got home. It brought me to my knees and had me wishing I could rewind to the afternoon when I was working on the basement so I could take down the crappy door. I really should have checked how secure it was before encouraging our play date down there (especially as the kitchen cupboard just fell on me 2 weeks ago!). Baby proofing 101, right?
Your whole life can change from one minute to the next. And I'm eternally grateful that this was another learning experience, and not a call to 911.
Friday, May 7, 2010
My Message
My husband caught up on my recent blogs last night after watching his hockey game (which, the Montreal Canadiens won!). He had some comments for me first thing this morning. I'm not a morning person so I don't think I appeared grateful for his constructive criticism. The most important point was that each post should have a "message." Ten years ago I graduated with a journalism degree, and mentally looking back on my studies, I'd have to say he has a pretty good point (thanks, honey). But I also remember the importance of "story telling." I just have to focus on getting my message into my storytelling and I should be off to the races.
Today's message is on SAFETY. I have been meaning to write about safety for some time, and today is as good a day as any to do it.
A few weeks ago someone very close to me was in a car accident. The other driver was injured and there was damage to both vehicles. It was a reminder of how quickly things can happen and the importance of always being on top of your surroundings.
A week later, I was involved in a car related incident that took me by surprise. I was putting the babe in the car (which is my job), and had the door opened behind me (which is necessary when you're leaning into a vehicle trying to buckle a toddler into a car seat). I was startled when I heard a sharp bang sound and turned around to see a car slowing down and pulling over. While I was leaning into our car, this other driver had managed to slightly drive into my open car door in an attempt to avoid an oncoming car. So, instead of stopping, this flake clips my door and comes pretty darn close to hitting me. The car was fine (just a super small mark), but I was rattled. Just another reminder of how careful we need to be and how quickly things can change.
Moving on to fire safety. As you may recall, we had a nightmare experience with fire in our own home last summer. A fan caught fire in the little guy's room when he was asleep in his crib with the door shut. Just thinking about it makes me want to disintegrate into a puddle of emotion. But what I have been telling people is to INSTALL SMOKE DETECTORS IN YOUR CHILDREN'S BEDROOMS! And after watching one of the parents on Parenthood close their child's bedroom door on this week's episode, I was reminded that I also want to suggest that you DON'T CLOSE BEDROOM DOORS! It may just be that I have become a paranoid freak, but even with a smoke detector, having the bedroom door shut just gives me the willies. I will never forget opening my son's bedroom door and walking into an oscillating fan on fire, a room filled with smoke, and my beautiful little baby boy screaming his heart out.
I hope today's message on SAFETY helps someone out.
Today's message is on SAFETY. I have been meaning to write about safety for some time, and today is as good a day as any to do it.
A few weeks ago someone very close to me was in a car accident. The other driver was injured and there was damage to both vehicles. It was a reminder of how quickly things can happen and the importance of always being on top of your surroundings.
A week later, I was involved in a car related incident that took me by surprise. I was putting the babe in the car (which is my job), and had the door opened behind me (which is necessary when you're leaning into a vehicle trying to buckle a toddler into a car seat). I was startled when I heard a sharp bang sound and turned around to see a car slowing down and pulling over. While I was leaning into our car, this other driver had managed to slightly drive into my open car door in an attempt to avoid an oncoming car. So, instead of stopping, this flake clips my door and comes pretty darn close to hitting me. The car was fine (just a super small mark), but I was rattled. Just another reminder of how careful we need to be and how quickly things can change.
Moving on to fire safety. As you may recall, we had a nightmare experience with fire in our own home last summer. A fan caught fire in the little guy's room when he was asleep in his crib with the door shut. Just thinking about it makes me want to disintegrate into a puddle of emotion. But what I have been telling people is to INSTALL SMOKE DETECTORS IN YOUR CHILDREN'S BEDROOMS! And after watching one of the parents on Parenthood close their child's bedroom door on this week's episode, I was reminded that I also want to suggest that you DON'T CLOSE BEDROOM DOORS! It may just be that I have become a paranoid freak, but even with a smoke detector, having the bedroom door shut just gives me the willies. I will never forget opening my son's bedroom door and walking into an oscillating fan on fire, a room filled with smoke, and my beautiful little baby boy screaming his heart out.
I hope today's message on SAFETY helps someone out.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Just Another Day at the Office
This morning I spent a lot of time trying to determine if it was an official snow day at the babe's school. After using all my technology (the TV, computer and phone), I confirmed that school was indeed on for the day. Sweet. I had been quite concerned that I was going to be on my own with both of them all day.
I got all 3 of us clothed, fed and washed up. As I was getting our bags, jackets, hats, mittens and foot wear assembled at the door, I heard a bang and the babe cry out in genuine pain (which is very different from her "fake" pain cry). She had been messing around the little guys high chair (like I had just told her not to) and had managed to slip and bash her mouth on our dining room table. I ran over to find her wailing and holding her mouth. The little guy sat in his high chair stunned. I had the babe open her mouth...no blood, but 2 chipped teeth on the top front. Funny thing is, she managed to chip the other side of the tooth she had chipped falling on a coffee table about 1.5 years ago. I called the dentist and they managed to set us up with an appointment for 1pm.
My excitement over the fact that it wasn't an official snow day was gone as I knew I was going to have to pick the babe up early from school, screw up the little guys precious nap and have both of them unrested and kooky for the whole afternoon.
Now that I've made it through the very long day, I am counting my blessings. The dentist confirmed that things looked OK in the babe's mouth. Dr. D shaved down the babe's vampire looking front tooth and told me to watch out for any colour changes in the tooth or gum. I'm also supposed to watch out for any movement of the tooth itself.
When accidents happen, it's good to try and keep it in perspective. Hopefully the babe has learnt that hanging off tables and playing around the high chair is not such a hot idea. But I wouldn't bet my life on it.
I got all 3 of us clothed, fed and washed up. As I was getting our bags, jackets, hats, mittens and foot wear assembled at the door, I heard a bang and the babe cry out in genuine pain (which is very different from her "fake" pain cry). She had been messing around the little guys high chair (like I had just told her not to) and had managed to slip and bash her mouth on our dining room table. I ran over to find her wailing and holding her mouth. The little guy sat in his high chair stunned. I had the babe open her mouth...no blood, but 2 chipped teeth on the top front. Funny thing is, she managed to chip the other side of the tooth she had chipped falling on a coffee table about 1.5 years ago. I called the dentist and they managed to set us up with an appointment for 1pm.
My excitement over the fact that it wasn't an official snow day was gone as I knew I was going to have to pick the babe up early from school, screw up the little guys precious nap and have both of them unrested and kooky for the whole afternoon.
Now that I've made it through the very long day, I am counting my blessings. The dentist confirmed that things looked OK in the babe's mouth. Dr. D shaved down the babe's vampire looking front tooth and told me to watch out for any colour changes in the tooth or gum. I'm also supposed to watch out for any movement of the tooth itself.
When accidents happen, it's good to try and keep it in perspective. Hopefully the babe has learnt that hanging off tables and playing around the high chair is not such a hot idea. But I wouldn't bet my life on it.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Montreal
The 23 day trip to Canada has been moving along at a rapid pace. Last Friday the kids and I arrived at my Mother in law's house in Montreal. My husband flew in from DC that night, and my sister in law and her husband and 2 kids had arrived the day before. Needless to say we have a full house. It has been amazing to watch the babe play with her cousin who is a few months younger than her.
The babe's cousin is potty trained. I thought this would help the babe get on the potty train. I thought the train would leave the station. I am now sadly losing count of how many times I have had to clean serious amounts of poop out of her panties and training panties. She just doesn't care. She will go pee on the potty when brought to the bathroom but never indicates that she wants to go. This makes for a lot of work and "remembering potty time" for the adults around here. Luckily it has become a family affair. But after the major poop out this morning, I think I am about to poop out. Maybe she just isn't ready and I'm wasting my time. I have no more patience. I have no more positive reinforcement. I am feeling pretty done. So for now, she's off at the park in her pull ups. We'll see if I have the guts and patience to put those darn panties on again. But September 2nd is getting pretty close at this point.
In other news, the fan saga continues. I arrived at my Mother in law's, had a seat in the living room, and found myself staring at exactly the same white oscillating fan with the haunting "Super" written across its front. The fan was kindly moved to the basement by my husband and replaced with a swing for the little guy. I'm not sure if all these folks who own this nightmare of a fan should be throwing them out, or if I just don't want to see them. I suppose that as long as I tell people about my experience with the "Super" fan, then I have done my part.
As you may have guessed, there hasn't been any time to be sitting at the computer blogging or even doing basic emails. Being in a house with 9 people is a constant whirl, not to mention the many folks dropping by for a visit. Next week should be a pretty big change going back to our slower pace in DC. But it will be nice to be back in my yummy bed. And it will also be nice to start thinking about moving on past this crazy summer into a hopefully more peaceful Autumn.
The babe's cousin is potty trained. I thought this would help the babe get on the potty train. I thought the train would leave the station. I am now sadly losing count of how many times I have had to clean serious amounts of poop out of her panties and training panties. She just doesn't care. She will go pee on the potty when brought to the bathroom but never indicates that she wants to go. This makes for a lot of work and "remembering potty time" for the adults around here. Luckily it has become a family affair. But after the major poop out this morning, I think I am about to poop out. Maybe she just isn't ready and I'm wasting my time. I have no more patience. I have no more positive reinforcement. I am feeling pretty done. So for now, she's off at the park in her pull ups. We'll see if I have the guts and patience to put those darn panties on again. But September 2nd is getting pretty close at this point.
In other news, the fan saga continues. I arrived at my Mother in law's, had a seat in the living room, and found myself staring at exactly the same white oscillating fan with the haunting "Super" written across its front. The fan was kindly moved to the basement by my husband and replaced with a swing for the little guy. I'm not sure if all these folks who own this nightmare of a fan should be throwing them out, or if I just don't want to see them. I suppose that as long as I tell people about my experience with the "Super" fan, then I have done my part.
As you may have guessed, there hasn't been any time to be sitting at the computer blogging or even doing basic emails. Being in a house with 9 people is a constant whirl, not to mention the many folks dropping by for a visit. Next week should be a pretty big change going back to our slower pace in DC. But it will be nice to be back in my yummy bed. And it will also be nice to start thinking about moving on past this crazy summer into a hopefully more peaceful Autumn.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Sun Smarts
Last week I had 3 biopsies done. I had never been to a dermatologist before but was slightly concerned about a few odd things (a regular colored bump on my forehead and 2 reddish marks-one on my clavicle and one on my shoulder).
I expected him to have a look and tell me to put some cream on them or something.
Instead he did 3 biopsies. Yikes, I thought to myself. He told me he though they were basal cell carcinoma. That's the big "C" word you don't want to hear.
Last Tuesday, a week after my visit with the skin doc, it was confirmed. My neck and my shoulder have basal cell carcinoma and I am going to have to have them surgically removed when I get home. I was reassured by the nurse on the phone that this is the "best" kind of skin cancer to get...if you're going to get it that is.
It is indeed very common and many Caucasians will have a run in with it during their life time...just not normally in their early 30s. I have been told I need to be extremely careful with the sun and need to go for regular appointments with a dermatologist. I have worn a hat in the sun for years and always wear a facial moisturizer with a built in sun screen. I have never been a sun worshipper and am not the kind of person who lies in the sun to relax. My situation is a result of a life time of sun exposure combined with very fair skin. Apparently we get approximately 80% of our sun exposure from age 0-18.
So, for all you Mamas who hang outside at the park and in the yard with your kids, put your hat on and slather on up with some strong sun screen. It is never too late to start protecting yourself. And even more important, slather up those kiddies as we Mamas are the ones responsible for their very fragile and very beautiful skin.
I expected him to have a look and tell me to put some cream on them or something.
Instead he did 3 biopsies. Yikes, I thought to myself. He told me he though they were basal cell carcinoma. That's the big "C" word you don't want to hear.
Last Tuesday, a week after my visit with the skin doc, it was confirmed. My neck and my shoulder have basal cell carcinoma and I am going to have to have them surgically removed when I get home. I was reassured by the nurse on the phone that this is the "best" kind of skin cancer to get...if you're going to get it that is.
It is indeed very common and many Caucasians will have a run in with it during their life time...just not normally in their early 30s. I have been told I need to be extremely careful with the sun and need to go for regular appointments with a dermatologist. I have worn a hat in the sun for years and always wear a facial moisturizer with a built in sun screen. I have never been a sun worshipper and am not the kind of person who lies in the sun to relax. My situation is a result of a life time of sun exposure combined with very fair skin. Apparently we get approximately 80% of our sun exposure from age 0-18.
So, for all you Mamas who hang outside at the park and in the yard with your kids, put your hat on and slather on up with some strong sun screen. It is never too late to start protecting yourself. And even more important, slather up those kiddies as we Mamas are the ones responsible for their very fragile and very beautiful skin.
The Fan
Family weddings used to involve some wine drinking, lots of catching up with people, and pulling out the moves on the dance floor. They now involve water drinking, brief moments of catching up with people while being repetitively interrupted by children, and dancing with toddlers (which is still pretty darn fun). Congratulations to my cousin and his beautiful bride. It was a lovely weekend which was well worth getting back to Canada for. We also managed to fit in a morning at a friend's lake side cottage which was a serious taste of the good life.
Since I've been home I have, however, been haunted by our burning fan. While at the cottage I was looking at pictures of our friend's new granddaughter. While gazing at the sweet little one, I recognized a white fan in the back of the photo and got a chill. It appeared to be the same version as ours, but the desk top variety. I warned our hosts and asked that they pass along the message to their son, the new Dad. While I was at it I also said they should tell him to install a smoke detector in the baby's room. I have started telling everyone I meet, especially those I am close to.
The second sighting was last night at my sister's place. She and I had just gotten back from an overnight trip with the little guy. I had decided to make a pit stop and feed my screaming son to make the rush hour trip back to my folks place a little more pleasant. I plunked down on her couch and looked next to me. It was a black oscillating fan, exactly the same as our white oscillating fan. Again, another big chill came over me. I let her know and asked her to be careful.
We have not been able to locate the company that sells this fan. It says "Super" on the front of it and I am sure it must be sold by a Canadian company (I have only seen them here). My mission while I am back is to track down the company so we can contact them to let them know about the fire and to share pictures of the melted fan with them. If anyone out there is familiar with the fan, feel free to share the info with me.
I am sure fans in general will continue to freak me out for years to come, but for now, if your fan says "Super" on the front, beware as it may not be so super.
Since I've been home I have, however, been haunted by our burning fan. While at the cottage I was looking at pictures of our friend's new granddaughter. While gazing at the sweet little one, I recognized a white fan in the back of the photo and got a chill. It appeared to be the same version as ours, but the desk top variety. I warned our hosts and asked that they pass along the message to their son, the new Dad. While I was at it I also said they should tell him to install a smoke detector in the baby's room. I have started telling everyone I meet, especially those I am close to.
The second sighting was last night at my sister's place. She and I had just gotten back from an overnight trip with the little guy. I had decided to make a pit stop and feed my screaming son to make the rush hour trip back to my folks place a little more pleasant. I plunked down on her couch and looked next to me. It was a black oscillating fan, exactly the same as our white oscillating fan. Again, another big chill came over me. I let her know and asked her to be careful.
We have not been able to locate the company that sells this fan. It says "Super" on the front of it and I am sure it must be sold by a Canadian company (I have only seen them here). My mission while I am back is to track down the company so we can contact them to let them know about the fire and to share pictures of the melted fan with them. If anyone out there is familiar with the fan, feel free to share the info with me.
I am sure fans in general will continue to freak me out for years to come, but for now, if your fan says "Super" on the front, beware as it may not be so super.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Getting it Back
It's been a while. First, thank you for all the messages, calls and emails. I have felt so loved.
Second, we're all OK. It was a tad crazy trying to get back to normal last week. My awesome Mother flew in on Monday morning and stayed with us until Thursday which allowed me to get work done. I was amazed at how our lives became so discombobulated by the fire. It seemed like everywhere I looked there was something to do. It was also tough to remain positive and focus on the fact that it all turned out OK.
We have sadly not returned to our sleeping routine which we had worked so hard to establish with the little guy. This has made life fuzzy for me. I am back to waking constantly and having to let him cry it out at times. I am not as tough as I was before and this has also made it difficult to get back on track. In addition, I am worried and find it difficult to keep my mind in check at night. We have now installed smoke detectors in each of the kids rooms as well as a fire extinguisher upstairs which has given me some comfort (I would encourage you to do the same if you have kids!).
Two days after the fire, the little guy had his 6 month check up with the pediatrician and came through with flying colours. He is 95th percentile in height which is pretty cool. The doc said she would have had no idea he had been involved in a fire a few days earlier if I had not told her. What a relief.
He also just survived a trip to the allergist yesterday. They did skin testing for the first time, and I am so darn happy to tell you that he came back negative on all 12 things they tested him for. I was so thrilled I almost started crying. I had been preparing myself for the worst and was already trying to accept that I would have 2 kids with food allergies. We're not in the clear yet, but this is a very good sign.
I had given him some peas last weekend and he had developed a rash about 4 hours later. I was convinced he was going to be an epi pen kid like his big sister. Yet they tested for peas and he came back negative which leads me to believe it could be a teething thing as he drools non stop. Anyway, relief doesn't begin to describe how I am feeling on the food allergy front!
Now back to the fire. The babe is talking about it every day. We are encouraging her to discuss it whenever she wants and she seems to be OK with it all. We have reassured her many times, and will continue to do so. Time will tell.
The little guy was definitely off his mark all last week. Between 4 immunization shots and the fire, he was not his usual pleasant self. I could tell he really just needed lots of love and comforting. He knew that some bad stuff had gone down...I have no doubt.
Anyway, as I said, we're all OK. We're working our way back to normal...although things are different now. We are seeing things in a changed way. I am trying to focus on the fact that I saved my son's life instead of on the fact that he was minutes away from the worst fate possible. I am trying to be strong, despite the exhaustion.
Thanks again for all the love and support. I am surrounded in person and spirit with amazing people (and angels, apparently).
Second, we're all OK. It was a tad crazy trying to get back to normal last week. My awesome Mother flew in on Monday morning and stayed with us until Thursday which allowed me to get work done. I was amazed at how our lives became so discombobulated by the fire. It seemed like everywhere I looked there was something to do. It was also tough to remain positive and focus on the fact that it all turned out OK.
We have sadly not returned to our sleeping routine which we had worked so hard to establish with the little guy. This has made life fuzzy for me. I am back to waking constantly and having to let him cry it out at times. I am not as tough as I was before and this has also made it difficult to get back on track. In addition, I am worried and find it difficult to keep my mind in check at night. We have now installed smoke detectors in each of the kids rooms as well as a fire extinguisher upstairs which has given me some comfort (I would encourage you to do the same if you have kids!).
Two days after the fire, the little guy had his 6 month check up with the pediatrician and came through with flying colours. He is 95th percentile in height which is pretty cool. The doc said she would have had no idea he had been involved in a fire a few days earlier if I had not told her. What a relief.
He also just survived a trip to the allergist yesterday. They did skin testing for the first time, and I am so darn happy to tell you that he came back negative on all 12 things they tested him for. I was so thrilled I almost started crying. I had been preparing myself for the worst and was already trying to accept that I would have 2 kids with food allergies. We're not in the clear yet, but this is a very good sign.
I had given him some peas last weekend and he had developed a rash about 4 hours later. I was convinced he was going to be an epi pen kid like his big sister. Yet they tested for peas and he came back negative which leads me to believe it could be a teething thing as he drools non stop. Anyway, relief doesn't begin to describe how I am feeling on the food allergy front!
Now back to the fire. The babe is talking about it every day. We are encouraging her to discuss it whenever she wants and she seems to be OK with it all. We have reassured her many times, and will continue to do so. Time will tell.
The little guy was definitely off his mark all last week. Between 4 immunization shots and the fire, he was not his usual pleasant self. I could tell he really just needed lots of love and comforting. He knew that some bad stuff had gone down...I have no doubt.
Anyway, as I said, we're all OK. We're working our way back to normal...although things are different now. We are seeing things in a changed way. I am trying to focus on the fact that I saved my son's life instead of on the fact that he was minutes away from the worst fate possible. I am trying to be strong, despite the exhaustion.
Thanks again for all the love and support. I am surrounded in person and spirit with amazing people (and angels, apparently).
Sunday, July 5, 2009
The Unbelievable
Last night I came very close to losing what I hold most dear. Shortly after 11pm, I woke to the sound of a blipping baby monitor. The audio was not working so I checked the visual monitor (we have 2 set up). It said "No Signal." After flicking the buttons off and on a few times, I decided I should get up to check the monitors in the little guy's room so I could get back to sleep. I trudged across the hall and noticed the light on from under the little guy's door. Odd, I thought to myself. Was my husband in there with him?
I opened the door expecting to see the two of them, but instead saw the oscillating fan on fire, a room full of smoke, and my son, lit by the light from the fire, screaming in his crib. I screamed downstairs to my husband, grabbed my son, ran to my daughter's room and grabbed her and ran downstairs. I plunked my daughter outside the front door, ran to get the fire extinguisher in the kitchen and called 911. I stayed outside with the kids while my husband tried to contain the fire. The extinguisher did not work and neither did a pillow. He thankfully had the smarts to use our kids' water bath buckets to get the fire out. The fire men ran into our home with a hose right after the fire was put out.
It was a blur.
We had a few fire trucks and an ambulance here. The street was blocked off. My son was checked out in the back of the ambulance after being put on an oxygen mask. We had many neighbors standing with us in solidarity on the front lawn. My friends across the street took the babe to their place so she could rest on their couch in peace.
When everyone was gone, the kids and I read some books in the living room while my husband tried to clear things up enough for us to sleep (there were traces of soot all over the second floor, and the firemen -- bless them -- and their firehoses had tracked in mud). We all snuggled together in our room, with the babe between my husband and I and the little guy back in the co-sleeper which was pulled down from the attic.
Needless to say we did not get more than a few hours of sleep last night.
Today has been a battle to control my mind. We were minutes away from the worst fate I can imagine. I am struggling to keep a strong face for our two children (who are now, finally, fast asleep).
I will write more on this later, but for now I need to say this: if you do not have a fire extinguisher on each level of your home, go buy them. You should also consider having fire alarms in all your bedrooms. We have an alarm in the hall outside our bedrooms, but as the little guy's door was shut, the alarm did not go off because the smoke had not yet reached the hallway ceiling.
Never make assumptions about your safety. Bad things do happen to good people, and we all need to do what we can to minimize the risks in our lives, while also trying to stay sane.
We are all safe. And I am thanking the powers above. One minute can change your life.
I opened the door expecting to see the two of them, but instead saw the oscillating fan on fire, a room full of smoke, and my son, lit by the light from the fire, screaming in his crib. I screamed downstairs to my husband, grabbed my son, ran to my daughter's room and grabbed her and ran downstairs. I plunked my daughter outside the front door, ran to get the fire extinguisher in the kitchen and called 911. I stayed outside with the kids while my husband tried to contain the fire. The extinguisher did not work and neither did a pillow. He thankfully had the smarts to use our kids' water bath buckets to get the fire out. The fire men ran into our home with a hose right after the fire was put out.
It was a blur.
We had a few fire trucks and an ambulance here. The street was blocked off. My son was checked out in the back of the ambulance after being put on an oxygen mask. We had many neighbors standing with us in solidarity on the front lawn. My friends across the street took the babe to their place so she could rest on their couch in peace.
When everyone was gone, the kids and I read some books in the living room while my husband tried to clear things up enough for us to sleep (there were traces of soot all over the second floor, and the firemen -- bless them -- and their firehoses had tracked in mud). We all snuggled together in our room, with the babe between my husband and I and the little guy back in the co-sleeper which was pulled down from the attic.
Needless to say we did not get more than a few hours of sleep last night.
Today has been a battle to control my mind. We were minutes away from the worst fate I can imagine. I am struggling to keep a strong face for our two children (who are now, finally, fast asleep).
I will write more on this later, but for now I need to say this: if you do not have a fire extinguisher on each level of your home, go buy them. You should also consider having fire alarms in all your bedrooms. We have an alarm in the hall outside our bedrooms, but as the little guy's door was shut, the alarm did not go off because the smoke had not yet reached the hallway ceiling.
Never make assumptions about your safety. Bad things do happen to good people, and we all need to do what we can to minimize the risks in our lives, while also trying to stay sane.
We are all safe. And I am thanking the powers above. One minute can change your life.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Broken Record
I am getting sick of the sound of my own voice. I feel like a broken record these days. If you hit play, these are some of the things you will likely hear:
- Be careful please
- Are your ears open? Are you doing good listening?
- Did you hear what I said?
- Out of your mouth
- Soft touch please
- No hitting
- No, we don't do that
- Did you hear what I said?
- Good girl!
- We don't play with our food, we eat our food.
- OK, I'm going to count to 3
- Do you want a time out?
- Can you take it down a notch? Inside voice please.
- Good listening monkey!
- Do you need to do pee pee on the potty?
- Fait nice do do (this is part of our sleep time ritual). I'll check on you soon (this is another part of our sleep time ritual). Back in your room (also part of the sleep time ritual)!
- Please don't touch your brother that way
- Please stop whining!
- Can you wait just a minute/Can you give me a second?
- I'll be right back
- Is that how you talk to me?
And my favorite:
- I love you SO MUCH!!!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
BPA Bottles/Meal Related Items Pulled From Shelves
This may be old news to some of you, but I had to write about it anyway (apparently stuff still happens when I'm at the beach and disconnected from the world). Toys R' Us has recently announced it will be pulling all baby bottles and meal related items containing the harmful BPA from their shelves in 2008. And Wal-Mart in Canada has already started the process of removing these items from their shelves as well.My home and native land, Canada, recently became the first country to ban the use of BPA in baby bottles (Go Canada!). Hopefully the US government (and others) will make a similar move soon.
Another company making the move to BPA free products is Nalgene, which is good new for us adults (at least those of us who became addicted to their water bottles over the years).
Check out this site to see what baby bottles are currently BPA free.
A lot of us moms are pretty disturbed we've been feeding our babies harmful chemicals with their milk. But in the grand scheme of things, we can't beat ourselves up over everything. There's enough to feel guilty about already! At least we're moving in the right direction.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Television and Plastics
I'm not sure whether I should be impressed or scared. As I was quickly brushing my teeth/getting ready for sign and sing class this morning, the babe managed to turn on the TV in our bedroom (pre-baby we used to watch the BBC at night before reading and going to sleep--ahhhh, weren't those just the calm and quiet days). She then managed to turn the channel to Sesame Street and, realizing she was happy with what she saw, stopped flipping (Elmo's World had her hooked). The babe was so impressed with herself when I came into the room. It's her 15 month birthday today, so I suppose it's appropriate she can channel surf (despite the fact she doesn't get to watch TV other than NHL hockey with her father and her sign and sing DVD with me).After class we drove over to Babies R Us (a place I generally like to try and avoid) to pick up a few things. Most of what I bought turned out to be plastic. I am being cautious with plastics as they're not saying good things about them these days, especially in relation to children. For some interesting reading, check out A Mom's Blog which has some quality plastics information. Another good blog to check out for safe plastic product recommendations is Z Recommends.
Everything we bought today was within the acceptable realm. There are 7 kinds of plastics and they say you should avoid numbers 3, 6, and 7. Your best bets with plastics (for food and beverage) are 1, 2, 4, and 5. For the grown ups, keep in mind that plastic water bottles are generally made out of the harmful plastics. I've switched to drinking out of a refillable SIGG container. It's safer and cheaper.
Television and plastics...evil parts of our modern world. Although I'll admit that I bought the Sesame Street "Beginning Together" DVD with Spanish track today as a little treat...after all, the babe and I both need to learn Spanish, and why not start with Elmo and Big Bird?
Monday, February 25, 2008
When Sparks Fly
I think the babe could have started a fire by rubbing her pajama legs together last week. I'm not sure if her Carter's one piece pajamas are a fire hazard, but it certainly seemed that way while we were visiting our families in Canada.
No kidding. While I would be completing the last steps of getting the babe ready for bed (in the dark for a more calming effect, of course), I would notice little sparks when she moved her legs around. That can't be a good thing.
Not only was she fighting a cold and cough, but I was having serious itchy scratchy problems due to the dryness. I guess the babe's pajamas felt the same way. Canada can be a very dry place in the winter, so I started using a humidifier my Dad had bought us at Christmas (thanks, Dad!). The humidifier worked wonders. The sparks stopped flying and I stopped itching. But I'm really wondering why I was seeing sparks in the first place. It just doesn't seem safe to be putting your child into clothes that pose a fire risk.
I was a tad nervous about using our "warm mist" humidifier as I had read that "cool mist" was the best option for young children. After further research, it would appear as though the only reason they recommend cool mist is to prevent children from burning themselves on the warm mist models. As the babe is still trapped in a crib at night, there is no need to worry. The added bonus of the warm mist humidifier is that it kills more bacteria as it boils the water. You just have to make sure you clean the thing out regularly.
We're back home below the Mason-Dixon line now. I've got our cool mist humidifier running and I'm hoping I don't see any more sparks flying.
PS- I'm also happy to announce that spell check is working again!!
No kidding. While I would be completing the last steps of getting the babe ready for bed (in the dark for a more calming effect, of course), I would notice little sparks when she moved her legs around. That can't be a good thing.
Not only was she fighting a cold and cough, but I was having serious itchy scratchy problems due to the dryness. I guess the babe's pajamas felt the same way. Canada can be a very dry place in the winter, so I started using a humidifier my Dad had bought us at Christmas (thanks, Dad!). The humidifier worked wonders. The sparks stopped flying and I stopped itching. But I'm really wondering why I was seeing sparks in the first place. It just doesn't seem safe to be putting your child into clothes that pose a fire risk.
I was a tad nervous about using our "warm mist" humidifier as I had read that "cool mist" was the best option for young children. After further research, it would appear as though the only reason they recommend cool mist is to prevent children from burning themselves on the warm mist models. As the babe is still trapped in a crib at night, there is no need to worry. The added bonus of the warm mist humidifier is that it kills more bacteria as it boils the water. You just have to make sure you clean the thing out regularly.
We're back home below the Mason-Dixon line now. I've got our cool mist humidifier running and I'm hoping I don't see any more sparks flying.
PS- I'm also happy to announce that spell check is working again!!
Monday, January 21, 2008
Close to Home
I'd like to blame it on Mommy brain...but I think I have to blame it on being plain old careless. I can honestly say I was well rested (the babe had just gotten some vaccine shots a few days earlier which had temporarily improved her sleeping abilities). I was returning home from picking up some stuff at my friend's place. It was about 5:50 pm. The alley was dark and I was perhaps going a tad too fast as I cruised into our parking spot. The babe was in the car with me and I should have been more careful. Hindsight is 20/20.
Mommy friends help out their Mommy friends. My bud had picked up some chicken and salmon for me at Costco earlier in the week. I was planning on picking it up on Thursday, but we had a snowy, icy, slushy day (rare here in DC). I decided it was a bit dicey and that I couldn't trust other drivers (after all, I'm Canadian and know how to handle winter conditions, right?). On Friday, I headed over to her place in the late afternoon. When offered the choice of a Guinness or a coffee, I chose coffee as I don't drink if I'll be driving (being a responsible Mommy and all).
Most accidents happen close to home. I understand why. I was practically in my spot when I pulled in too close to my neighbor's car. It was too late when I realized what was happening. The damage was done. In a panic I checked the cars out. I called my husband with tears streaming down my face and then made my way down the alley to notify my neighbor. He was great about it all. When my husband got home, he was also great about it all. I was the one who was not great about it all.
I beat myself up all weekend (and made my neighbor chocolate chip cookies). I have to be grateful no one was hurt. But feeling like an idiot and wishing you hadn't made such a dumb and expensive mistake is hard to swallow.
Today, I drove (carefully) to the suburbs and got an estimate on the damage to our car. The Honda guy quoted me a bit over $2,200. When he walked me to my car, he told me I could just buy some cleaner/scratch treatment and some spot paint and we'd be good to go. Perhaps he couldn't say that out loud in front of the other shop/sales folks? Whatever the reason, our cosmetic issues and small crack and dent are not as big a deal as I feared all weekend.
I am finally feeling OK. I spent an hour scrubbing the scratches off as the babe slept peacefully in her car seat this afternoon. My thumb is about to fall off and my wrist is not happy, but I gotta tell ya, the car looks almost as good as new. I've got my fingers crossed that we won't be hit hard by the neighbor's car repair bill (scratched bumper and cracked light), but I have to believe it'll be manageable. We'll find out in a few weeks when he returns from a road trip he already had planned.
So, I will not blame Mommy brain. I will take responsibility for my actions. And man oh man will I be extra careful parking in the back alley.
Mommy friends help out their Mommy friends. My bud had picked up some chicken and salmon for me at Costco earlier in the week. I was planning on picking it up on Thursday, but we had a snowy, icy, slushy day (rare here in DC). I decided it was a bit dicey and that I couldn't trust other drivers (after all, I'm Canadian and know how to handle winter conditions, right?). On Friday, I headed over to her place in the late afternoon. When offered the choice of a Guinness or a coffee, I chose coffee as I don't drink if I'll be driving (being a responsible Mommy and all).
Most accidents happen close to home. I understand why. I was practically in my spot when I pulled in too close to my neighbor's car. It was too late when I realized what was happening. The damage was done. In a panic I checked the cars out. I called my husband with tears streaming down my face and then made my way down the alley to notify my neighbor. He was great about it all. When my husband got home, he was also great about it all. I was the one who was not great about it all.
I beat myself up all weekend (and made my neighbor chocolate chip cookies). I have to be grateful no one was hurt. But feeling like an idiot and wishing you hadn't made such a dumb and expensive mistake is hard to swallow.
Today, I drove (carefully) to the suburbs and got an estimate on the damage to our car. The Honda guy quoted me a bit over $2,200. When he walked me to my car, he told me I could just buy some cleaner/scratch treatment and some spot paint and we'd be good to go. Perhaps he couldn't say that out loud in front of the other shop/sales folks? Whatever the reason, our cosmetic issues and small crack and dent are not as big a deal as I feared all weekend.
I am finally feeling OK. I spent an hour scrubbing the scratches off as the babe slept peacefully in her car seat this afternoon. My thumb is about to fall off and my wrist is not happy, but I gotta tell ya, the car looks almost as good as new. I've got my fingers crossed that we won't be hit hard by the neighbor's car repair bill (scratched bumper and cracked light), but I have to believe it'll be manageable. We'll find out in a few weeks when he returns from a road trip he already had planned.
So, I will not blame Mommy brain. I will take responsibility for my actions. And man oh man will I be extra careful parking in the back alley.
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