I was working a few days ago, so Dad picked the boys up from school. He told me that Pup had walked out the gates holding hands with Miss S. Pup has known her since Year 8 and they hang out at school. I asked Pup and he reckoned Miss S is just messing around with Dad.
I was with Dad today to pick up the boys and there they were! Holding hands! Practically joined at the hip!
This was our conversation.
Miss S: Hello! What is your name?
Me: Hello, my name is Carolyn.
Miss S: Can I call you Mum?
Me: No.
Miss S: Why not?
Me: Because you are not my daughter and we just met. (At least I'm direct)
She then popped her head in the window to ask Dad if she could call him Dad! He asked if she had a dad. Apparently she does but he doesn’t live with her. So Dad said yes. FOOL!!!
Miss S: So now I have a dad but no mum…
Me (thinking): I wonder what her mum would think to hear her say that…
She then asked the other two boys where we lived but they didn’t tell her. She already has our phone number but hasn’t called. Another thought – if Pup wanted her to visit, wouldn’t he give her our address or ask for hers? Actually, on second thought, he probably doesn’t want her to visit here because his room is a mess…
After a painful, long, teenage goodbye we managed to leave. Yay! It was painful for me and long and teenage for them because they will have to survive until Monday morning.
Once we got home, I asked Pup if Miss S had decided to mess with me. He replied, “Yes”. (Me thinking: Bring it on Sweetheart, I'm a girl too)
I then told him that in my opinion, Miss S really does like him and has tricked him into playing a game where she can hold his hand and hear him say he loves her.
He just turned and walked away. But I saw that smile on his face. I do believe he cares for her.
I'm just not ready yet... Any advice?
Friday, 21 October 2011
Sunday, 16 October 2011
Termite Removal
The termite removal people turned up to do their job a few weeks ago. The bloke told me that they’d be here at 7:00 am and I agreed that it was a decent time. I get up at 7:00 am and I figured they’d get here later – it was just a ballpark time. Stupid me! Bang on 7, there was a knock on the door… Luckily, I got up a few minutes earlier, just not early enough to have a cup of coffee, so my conversational skills were not at my best.
They did their thing and left. We’re still waiting on getting the holes fixed but would you believe the real estate agent said we must have disturbed the termites so they went underground. So very sorry for actually cleaning the home we live in. Promise not to do that ever again! (Sarcasm intended)
And then…
A few days ago…
Dad was outside near our BBQ and then he scurried in the house. (Note to Dad - When you’re a big man, scurrying is not a good look and arouses suspicion)
Me: What’s wrong?
Dad: Nothing. You don’t want to know.
Me: Snake!?!
Dad: Yes. A small dead brown snake. They’re really poisonous. I wonder where the Mum and brothers are?
Me : (curled up on a chair) WHAT? Next time don’t tell me!
Dad: I said you didn’t want to know…
No. I don’t want to know but I do now. And I'm sorry I did! I also don’t want to know where the daddy snake is.
PS. Sorry for the peace, quiet and lack of updating but I've been a bit busy lately.
They did their thing and left. We’re still waiting on getting the holes fixed but would you believe the real estate agent said we must have disturbed the termites so they went underground. So very sorry for actually cleaning the home we live in. Promise not to do that ever again! (Sarcasm intended)
And then…
A few days ago…
Dad was outside near our BBQ and then he scurried in the house. (Note to Dad - When you’re a big man, scurrying is not a good look and arouses suspicion)
Me: What’s wrong?
Dad: Nothing. You don’t want to know.
Me: Snake!?!
Dad: Yes. A small dead brown snake. They’re really poisonous. I wonder where the Mum and brothers are?
Me : (curled up on a chair) WHAT? Next time don’t tell me!
Dad: I said you didn’t want to know…
No. I don’t want to know but I do now. And I'm sorry I did! I also don’t want to know where the daddy snake is.
PS. Sorry for the peace, quiet and lack of updating but I've been a bit busy lately.
I have a boyfriend
No, you don’t have to tell Dad because he’s the one who pointed it out. It’s our 86 year old neighbour. Well, he was 86 when he moved in a few years ago but now he’s 84. Hey! I’m not the one with dementia – he’s the first to admit he has dementia.
He visits almost every 2 days and, depending on the season, offers parsley, silverbeet, cherry tomatoes, mandarins and oranges and 3 or 4 magazines.
If he happens to see Dad instead of me, well, then he pops back again the very next day. Just in case Dad knocked me off or I left, I guess.
Here are a few examples in case you think we’re imagining it…
These are just a few examples but after every single occasion where Mr 86 has not seen me, he has turned up the very next day, and the next… until he does see me. And he always gives me something. Even if it’s just a magazine.
I’ve been in his home (with Dad) and he has enough magazines to visit forever!!!
He never stays for long but he is obviously reaching out for companionship. He is married but his wife works a few days a week. I don’t think there’s a person in our street who doesn’t know him. He’s a lovely person and I wish they were still made that way.
He visits almost every 2 days and, depending on the season, offers parsley, silverbeet, cherry tomatoes, mandarins and oranges and 3 or 4 magazines.
If he happens to see Dad instead of me, well, then he pops back again the very next day. Just in case Dad knocked me off or I left, I guess.
Here are a few examples in case you think we’re imagining it…
- Dad spray painting the car in the shed. In walked Mr 86 who said, “Hello Dad. (Obviously not what he really called him) Are you spray painting the car?” And then he touched the wet area! We have a thumbprint as proof.
- Dad fixing a car in the shed. In walked Mr 86 who said, “Hello Dad. Are you fixing the car?” And popped his head under the hood and gave him a history lesson on the type of car it was.
- Dad actually answering the door because I was tucked up in bed having a sleep-in. Mr 86 asked where I was and when Dad told him I was asleep, he actually started to whisper because he didn’t want to wake me up! Beautiful thought but wasted on Dad because he’s deaf too. And our bedroom is far away from the front door, so I wouldn’t have heard him anyway.
- The boys helping Dad mow the lawn. The first I knew of his visit was more silverbeet and parsley on the counter.
- Foal helping Dad clean the car and then getting sidetracked with me trying to get the stupid dog to go back home. (A story for another time) I came back inside and there was silverbeet and parsley on the counter.
These are just a few examples but after every single occasion where Mr 86 has not seen me, he has turned up the very next day, and the next… until he does see me. And he always gives me something. Even if it’s just a magazine.
I’ve been in his home (with Dad) and he has enough magazines to visit forever!!!
He never stays for long but he is obviously reaching out for companionship. He is married but his wife works a few days a week. I don’t think there’s a person in our street who doesn’t know him. He’s a lovely person and I wish they were still made that way.
Saturday, 1 October 2011
Genuine Email From Someone Clearly Needing Help
How can I help? Let me show the way... Gentleman first...
OF MR LARRY WILLIAMS
ZENITH BANK PLC.
ATTENTION:
I seek for your co-operation; my name is Mr. Larry William A Personal Accountant to Late Engineer Michael, a citizen of your country , who used to work with French oil major total, company here in. Herein, shall be referred to as my client. On the 21st of April 2004, Mr. Michael, his wife and his three children were involved in a drastic car accident along Sagamu/Lagos Express Road. Unfortunately he and his three kids lost their lives immediately in the event of the accident, while the wife was taken to the hospital where she died three days later. Their bodies were kept in the mortuary for five months, in order for the authority, to carry out a proper investigation on how to locate their surviving relatives. They have checked all available public files and embassies, but all their efforts had proved abortive, as they could not fund any of their relatives.
After these several unsuccessful attempts, no one has been coming for his account that he deposited with my bank (Zenith Bank Plc). And due to the banking law and regulation of 1985, sub section 18d page 103 chapter 11 of constitution governing all banking policy, and in accordance to the banking decree 003 sub section 45 which stated that any deposited fund which remains unclaimed after the existing period of four years will be confiscated by the national treasury department as unclaimed fund. And this has brought too much agitation in our bank between boards of directors on how to declare this account unserviceable, base on the fact that the deceased has no next of kin. After the meeting held by the executives of zenith bank with the personal attorney to late Michael on 15th of November 2010, they have all agreed to extend the date to 1st of August 2011.
Consequently to this, I have contacted you to assist in repatriating the money and property left behind by my client before the national treasury department gets them confiscated or declare unserviceable by zenith bank Plc Where the deceased have an account Valued at about fifteen Million, three hundred and forty five thousand U.S dollars (USD 15, 345,000.00). The bank has issued out a notice to provide the next of kin or have the account confiscated with in the next few days. Since no one has been able to locate their relatives for over four years now, I seek your consent to present you as the next of kin of the deceased so that this account valued at fifteen Million, three hundred and forty five thousand U.S dollars (USD 15, 345,000.00) can be paid to you and then you and I Can share the money. All the necessary documents concerning this claim are with the Bank legal department. All I require is your honest cooperation to enable us seal this deal.
Get back to me for immediate commencement of this deal.
Yours Truly,
Mr. Larry.
My Possible Reply to OF MR LARRY WILLIAMS
ZENITH BANK PLC.
//*********************************
My Reply -
ATTENTION: Mr Larry
I’m seeking my own co-operation too, so if you find it please let me know. I would be most grateful.
You neglect to mention Late Engineer Michael’s surname. That makes it pretty difficult to narrow him down. You might need to add the country that he was a citizen of. Just a thought…
Car accidents are always drastic and I send my condolences to the car. Do you know what make and model they were driving in? It would help me to make safer choices when it comes to choosing a car for my own family.
Now, where were we? Were their bodies really kept in the mortuary for five months? I do hope they didn’t follow a religious belief that requires them to be buried before the next sundown. How traumatic and drastic that would be for them as a family, especially if they had to wait three extra days for the wife and mother of the children.
I also find it interesting that all efforts by the public files and embassies were abortive and couldn’t FUND their relatives. Maybe they didn’t want to FIND the relatives and FUND them the money.
I am not stupid but thank-you so much for mentioning the bank that you work for so often. You might consider appropriate spelling and capitals each time you type it. The serious lack of consistency does not endear me to help you with your drastic situation. Added to that, I prefer my board of directors to be shaken and stirred. Agitation is not my preferred method for a group in charge.
Finally, you might ask someone to proof your email. You know, like maybe your secretary?
In conclusion, No, I do not want your money. I will state it here and now, you will never get my bank details, so don’t waste your time. I am just having a bit of fun.
Hugs, Me
PS This is Totally cheek in mouth and just for Fun.
OF MR LARRY WILLIAMS
ZENITH BANK PLC.
ATTENTION:
I seek for your co-operation; my name is Mr. Larry William A Personal Accountant to Late Engineer Michael, a citizen of your country , who used to work with French oil major total, company here in. Herein, shall be referred to as my client. On the 21st of April 2004, Mr. Michael, his wife and his three children were involved in a drastic car accident along Sagamu/Lagos Express Road. Unfortunately he and his three kids lost their lives immediately in the event of the accident, while the wife was taken to the hospital where she died three days later. Their bodies were kept in the mortuary for five months, in order for the authority, to carry out a proper investigation on how to locate their surviving relatives. They have checked all available public files and embassies, but all their efforts had proved abortive, as they could not fund any of their relatives.
After these several unsuccessful attempts, no one has been coming for his account that he deposited with my bank (Zenith Bank Plc). And due to the banking law and regulation of 1985, sub section 18d page 103 chapter 11 of constitution governing all banking policy, and in accordance to the banking decree 003 sub section 45 which stated that any deposited fund which remains unclaimed after the existing period of four years will be confiscated by the national treasury department as unclaimed fund. And this has brought too much agitation in our bank between boards of directors on how to declare this account unserviceable, base on the fact that the deceased has no next of kin. After the meeting held by the executives of zenith bank with the personal attorney to late Michael on 15th of November 2010, they have all agreed to extend the date to 1st of August 2011.
Consequently to this, I have contacted you to assist in repatriating the money and property left behind by my client before the national treasury department gets them confiscated or declare unserviceable by zenith bank Plc Where the deceased have an account Valued at about fifteen Million, three hundred and forty five thousand U.S dollars (USD 15, 345,000.00). The bank has issued out a notice to provide the next of kin or have the account confiscated with in the next few days. Since no one has been able to locate their relatives for over four years now, I seek your consent to present you as the next of kin of the deceased so that this account valued at fifteen Million, three hundred and forty five thousand U.S dollars (USD 15, 345,000.00) can be paid to you and then you and I Can share the money. All the necessary documents concerning this claim are with the Bank legal department. All I require is your honest cooperation to enable us seal this deal.
Get back to me for immediate commencement of this deal.
Yours Truly,
Mr. Larry.
My Possible Reply to OF MR LARRY WILLIAMS
ZENITH BANK PLC.
//*********************************
My Reply -
ATTENTION: Mr Larry
I’m seeking my own co-operation too, so if you find it please let me know. I would be most grateful.
You neglect to mention Late Engineer Michael’s surname. That makes it pretty difficult to narrow him down. You might need to add the country that he was a citizen of. Just a thought…
Car accidents are always drastic and I send my condolences to the car. Do you know what make and model they were driving in? It would help me to make safer choices when it comes to choosing a car for my own family.
Now, where were we? Were their bodies really kept in the mortuary for five months? I do hope they didn’t follow a religious belief that requires them to be buried before the next sundown. How traumatic and drastic that would be for them as a family, especially if they had to wait three extra days for the wife and mother of the children.
I also find it interesting that all efforts by the public files and embassies were abortive and couldn’t FUND their relatives. Maybe they didn’t want to FIND the relatives and FUND them the money.
I am not stupid but thank-you so much for mentioning the bank that you work for so often. You might consider appropriate spelling and capitals each time you type it. The serious lack of consistency does not endear me to help you with your drastic situation. Added to that, I prefer my board of directors to be shaken and stirred. Agitation is not my preferred method for a group in charge.
Finally, you might ask someone to proof your email. You know, like maybe your secretary?
In conclusion, No, I do not want your money. I will state it here and now, you will never get my bank details, so don’t waste your time. I am just having a bit of fun.
Hugs, Me
PS This is Totally cheek in mouth and just for Fun.
A Step Up From Bugs
The termite removal people turned up to do their job. The bloke told me that they’d be here at 7:00 am and I agreed that it was a decent time. I get up at 7:00 am and I figured they’d get here later – it was just a ballpark time. Stupid me! Bang on 7, there was a knock on the door… Luckily, I got up a few minutes earlier, just not early enough to have a cup of coffee, so my conversational skills were not at my best and I won't bore you with the details. Mainly because I can't remember as I wasn't 'technically' awake.
They did their thing and left. We’re still waiting on getting the holes fixed but would you believe the real estate agent said we must have disturbed the termites so they went underground. So very sorry for actually cleaning the home we live in. Promise not to do that ever again! (Sarcasm intended)
And then…
A few days ago…
Dad was outside near our BBQ and then he scurried in the house. Note to Dad - When you’re a big man, scurrying is not a good look and arouses suspicion.
Me: What’s wrong?
Dad: Nothing. You don’t want to know.
Me: Snake!?!
Dad: Yes. A small dead brown snake. They’re really poisonous. I wonder where the Mum and brothers are?
Me : (curled up on a chair) WTF? Next time don’t tell me!
Dad: I said you didn’t want to know…
No. I don’t want to know but I do now. I'm sorry I know but I also don’t want to know where the Dad, Mum and brother snakes are.
They did their thing and left. We’re still waiting on getting the holes fixed but would you believe the real estate agent said we must have disturbed the termites so they went underground. So very sorry for actually cleaning the home we live in. Promise not to do that ever again! (Sarcasm intended)
And then…
A few days ago…
Dad was outside near our BBQ and then he scurried in the house. Note to Dad - When you’re a big man, scurrying is not a good look and arouses suspicion.
Me: What’s wrong?
Dad: Nothing. You don’t want to know.
Me: Snake!?!
Dad: Yes. A small dead brown snake. They’re really poisonous. I wonder where the Mum and brothers are?
Me : (curled up on a chair) WTF? Next time don’t tell me!
Dad: I said you didn’t want to know…
No. I don’t want to know but I do now. I'm sorry I know but I also don’t want to know where the Dad, Mum and brother snakes are.
Saturday, 27 August 2011
Another Bug Tale
So we have bugs again. This time, they are not in the boys’ hair. They are just in our home. I don’t even have to feel guilty because I forgot to check the boys’ hair. I just feel bad because I forgot to check the house! Who knew?
We began our spring cleaning a bit early this year and noticed a couple of holes. The first clues were the holes in the door. No, not where the glass bit goes, I mean the wooden bit!
As a responsible tenant, I phoned our real estate agent and explained the situation. Naturally, they doubted my opinion, and asked me, “Would I pop my finger in the hole to see what crawled out?”
I politely declined that offer and asked them to do so instead.
After a quick discussion, the job was delegated to a junior. Luckily, she was in the area and turned up within 20 minutes of my phone call.
She took one look from across the room and promptly fell to her knees.
Bless her!! But she didn’t want to pop her finger in the hole either. She confirmed we did have termites!
We’ve now had headlice, wild mice, cockroaches and termites...
Not everyone can say they have pets that feed themselves! How awesome is that?
We began our spring cleaning a bit early this year and noticed a couple of holes. The first clues were the holes in the door. No, not where the glass bit goes, I mean the wooden bit!
As a responsible tenant, I phoned our real estate agent and explained the situation. Naturally, they doubted my opinion, and asked me, “Would I pop my finger in the hole to see what crawled out?”
I politely declined that offer and asked them to do so instead.
After a quick discussion, the job was delegated to a junior. Luckily, she was in the area and turned up within 20 minutes of my phone call.
She took one look from across the room and promptly fell to her knees.
Bless her!! But she didn’t want to pop her finger in the hole either. She confirmed we did have termites!
We’ve now had headlice, wild mice, cockroaches and termites...
Not everyone can say they have pets that feed themselves! How awesome is that?
Saturday, 6 August 2011
Foal’s Birthday (9)
Foal turned 9 a couple of weeks ago. Awesome!!! (I haven’t killed him yet – Yay me!!!)
He decided he wanted a party and invited 3 of his closest friends. All three RSVP’ed but only two kids turned up. I’m still not sure what happened to the third but I have my thoughts. That was the call Dad took when I wasn’t home. The mum probably said they couldn’t make it and he heard the opposite. Honest mistake for a deaf person.
The two who did turn up were absolutely feral. And I say that in the nicest possible way. My first clue should have been when the parents dropping off their child and their last words were, “BEHAVE YOURSELF!!!”
We had hotdogs, party pies, sausage rolls, KFC Chicken, watermelon, popcorn, chips, icecream, lemonade, lollies and, of course, cake. They complained about the food. One child kept trying to sweep the food off the table and I had to tell him off. He didn’t eat anything except the lollies and cake.
The same child kept trying to go into Pup and Cub’s rooms. Even though their doors were closed. I ended up telling him to stop trying because they were closed for a reason. He finally got the idea to stay out!!!
The other child complained about the food too, but somehow managed to suffer his way through.
Both of them thought it would be a brilliant idea to break Foal’s birthday presents. I told them otherwise.
Both of them thought it was fantastic fun to throw stones at each other. I told them otherwise.
Both of them complained about being bored even though we have a huge backyard, a toy-filled rumpus room, Playstation and Xbox. I ignored them and started counting the minutes.
Thankfully, both of them were picked up on time. When the really naughty child was picked up, I told his mum that he didn’t eat any lunch even though we had plenty of choices and I offered to make him a sandwich of his choice. You know, just in case he went home and said there was nothing to eat. She gave him a really odd look so he obviously does eat the food we had. And besides, I’d done the right thing when they were dropped off and asked the parent if their precious had any allergies or foods they shouldn’t eat. Both replied that they ate anything.
Afterwards I asked Foal if they normally acted “that crazy” and he said no. Even he was disappointed in their behaviour. I told him that maybe they were just very excited.
Much later, I asked Foal if he’d had fun with his friends and he replied, “Yes. Best birthday party ever!” I guess that makes it all worthwhile...
He decided he wanted a party and invited 3 of his closest friends. All three RSVP’ed but only two kids turned up. I’m still not sure what happened to the third but I have my thoughts. That was the call Dad took when I wasn’t home. The mum probably said they couldn’t make it and he heard the opposite. Honest mistake for a deaf person.
The two who did turn up were absolutely feral. And I say that in the nicest possible way. My first clue should have been when the parents dropping off their child and their last words were, “BEHAVE YOURSELF!!!”
We had hotdogs, party pies, sausage rolls, KFC Chicken, watermelon, popcorn, chips, icecream, lemonade, lollies and, of course, cake. They complained about the food. One child kept trying to sweep the food off the table and I had to tell him off. He didn’t eat anything except the lollies and cake.
The same child kept trying to go into Pup and Cub’s rooms. Even though their doors were closed. I ended up telling him to stop trying because they were closed for a reason. He finally got the idea to stay out!!!
The other child complained about the food too, but somehow managed to suffer his way through.
Both of them thought it would be a brilliant idea to break Foal’s birthday presents. I told them otherwise.
Both of them thought it was fantastic fun to throw stones at each other. I told them otherwise.
Both of them complained about being bored even though we have a huge backyard, a toy-filled rumpus room, Playstation and Xbox. I ignored them and started counting the minutes.
Thankfully, both of them were picked up on time. When the really naughty child was picked up, I told his mum that he didn’t eat any lunch even though we had plenty of choices and I offered to make him a sandwich of his choice. You know, just in case he went home and said there was nothing to eat. She gave him a really odd look so he obviously does eat the food we had. And besides, I’d done the right thing when they were dropped off and asked the parent if their precious had any allergies or foods they shouldn’t eat. Both replied that they ate anything.
Afterwards I asked Foal if they normally acted “that crazy” and he said no. Even he was disappointed in their behaviour. I told him that maybe they were just very excited.
Much later, I asked Foal if he’d had fun with his friends and he replied, “Yes. Best birthday party ever!” I guess that makes it all worthwhile...
Sunday, 17 July 2011
Midnight Conversation
We have always had an ‘open bed policy’ but now the boys are bigger, our current rules are:
- We need to check the time. Dad gets up just after 3:00 am so if the time is nearly there, the following rule doesn’t apply, we’ll just wait. (Very important when it’s the middle of winter)
- Child must help me find the spare mattress and make up a bed next to my side on the floor
Recently, Foal had a bad dream and suddenly appeared next to my side of the bed. This is what followed:
Dad’s alarm did its thing, Dad got up and left.
Foal rolled over, So did I.
We both stretched out.
Foal asked, “Where are you going?”
I replied, “Nowhere!”
His retort, “Yes, you are! You’re going to sleep!”
- We need to check the time. Dad gets up just after 3:00 am so if the time is nearly there, the following rule doesn’t apply, we’ll just wait. (Very important when it’s the middle of winter)
- Child must help me find the spare mattress and make up a bed next to my side on the floor
Recently, Foal had a bad dream and suddenly appeared next to my side of the bed. This is what followed:
Dad’s alarm did its thing, Dad got up and left.
Foal rolled over, So did I.
We both stretched out.
Foal asked, “Where are you going?”
I replied, “Nowhere!”
His retort, “Yes, you are! You’re going to sleep!”
Saturday, 4 June 2011
Idiots and Fools
People fascinate me.
Take the neighbours for example. Not the good ones, I’m talking about the strange ones. There’s mum, dad, five kids, a mean dog and some bloke who stays there on and off. I’m not sure how he’s a related, and I mean this in the nicest possible way, but he’s an idiot!
Guess what he did today. He bought all the kids out into the backyard and told them to run around and scream. I think it was some sort of competition to see who could be the loudest. Now I could understand if he wanted them to burn off some energy but he actually joined in!
He declared himself the winner and then got cranky when the kids wouldn’t shut up. Seriously, who in their right minds encourages children to make a noise? Fool.
Another example is the silly driver from yesterday. Dad was about to reverse parallel-park and he actually did all the right things. You know, indicate, pull up alongside the car in front and then reverse in. Stupid woman behind us obviously doesn’t know the procedure because as he’s started to reverse, she’s planted her hand firmly on the ‘warning device’. He stopped, looked at her and then carried on. She did it again. I’m not sure why because our car was nowhere close to hitting hers but to make her feel safer, we both yelled at her to MOVE!!! Not that she needed to but she finally did.
The really funny thing about that whole incident was when the silly driver hit the ‘warning device’ she was alongside a friend of ours. The friend got a fright at the noise and yelled out, “MOVE” too. She had a few more choice words added though…
Take the neighbours for example. Not the good ones, I’m talking about the strange ones. There’s mum, dad, five kids, a mean dog and some bloke who stays there on and off. I’m not sure how he’s a related, and I mean this in the nicest possible way, but he’s an idiot!
Guess what he did today. He bought all the kids out into the backyard and told them to run around and scream. I think it was some sort of competition to see who could be the loudest. Now I could understand if he wanted them to burn off some energy but he actually joined in!
He declared himself the winner and then got cranky when the kids wouldn’t shut up. Seriously, who in their right minds encourages children to make a noise? Fool.
Another example is the silly driver from yesterday. Dad was about to reverse parallel-park and he actually did all the right things. You know, indicate, pull up alongside the car in front and then reverse in. Stupid woman behind us obviously doesn’t know the procedure because as he’s started to reverse, she’s planted her hand firmly on the ‘warning device’. He stopped, looked at her and then carried on. She did it again. I’m not sure why because our car was nowhere close to hitting hers but to make her feel safer, we both yelled at her to MOVE!!! Not that she needed to but she finally did.
The really funny thing about that whole incident was when the silly driver hit the ‘warning device’ she was alongside a friend of ours. The friend got a fright at the noise and yelled out, “MOVE” too. She had a few more choice words added though…
Tuesday, 17 May 2011
Mother's Day 2011
This year’s was fantastic! I did the usual and gave Cub and Foal $5 each and off they went to school. Unfortunately, the Mother’s Day stall ran out of stuff but promised they’d restock for the next day. Foal’s money was also stolen so I gave him some more money. And off they went again. The Mother’s Day stall ran out of stuff AGAIN! What a shame…
Dad decided he’d take the boys to the local shopping centre on Saturday because he also needed to pick something up for his mum. So far, so good…
Dad bought me an electric frying pan,
Pup came home with a present for himself – a donut maker,
Cub chose a chrysanthemum, and
Foal was empty handed and in a filthy mood.
Apparently Dad and Foal had a bit of an argument and they ended up being really angry with each other. Once we’d sorted out the confusion, Dad agreed to take him back to the shop on Sunday. This time was a success. Foal chose the most beautiful, handmade glass dolphin figurine. It was such a thoughtful gift because years ago the two of us were lucky enough to see a mother dolphin swimming with her baby. It’s one of my favourite memories but I was surprised that he remembered the experience.
A family friend flew up from Melbourne to visit for a week and she arrived on Sunday. The mothers in the family decided we wanted to go out for lunch and that’s what we did. No cooking or cleaning. Bonus!!!
All in all? The Best Mother’s Day ever!!!
Dad decided he’d take the boys to the local shopping centre on Saturday because he also needed to pick something up for his mum. So far, so good…
Dad bought me an electric frying pan,
Pup came home with a present for himself – a donut maker,
Cub chose a chrysanthemum, and
Foal was empty handed and in a filthy mood.
Apparently Dad and Foal had a bit of an argument and they ended up being really angry with each other. Once we’d sorted out the confusion, Dad agreed to take him back to the shop on Sunday. This time was a success. Foal chose the most beautiful, handmade glass dolphin figurine. It was such a thoughtful gift because years ago the two of us were lucky enough to see a mother dolphin swimming with her baby. It’s one of my favourite memories but I was surprised that he remembered the experience.
A family friend flew up from Melbourne to visit for a week and she arrived on Sunday. The mothers in the family decided we wanted to go out for lunch and that’s what we did. No cooking or cleaning. Bonus!!!
All in all? The Best Mother’s Day ever!!!
Thursday, 21 April 2011
Lessons My Mom and Mum Have Taught Me
1. If you have nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all. (An everyday thing)
2. Don’t make me come back there. (Especially important in a long car drive)
3. I don’t care who started it, I will finish it. (Ditto for the long car drive but also important for everyday life)
4. Wear clean underwear in case you get run over by a bus. (Or… in case I throw you under the bus because now I’m cranky)
5. Don’t chew with food in your mouth (Oh! Sorry, I meant ‘talk with food in your mouth’ and yes, I’ve actually said that)
6. Talk with your mother, not at her. (She’s your safety rope, are you hers?)
7. If she’s not a current part of your life, honour her memory because without her, you would not be here.
8. If she is still a part of your life, call her or give her plenty of hugs. (She seriously deserves them.)
9. Compassion is everything.
10.So is dignity.
I have 2 mothers, one dead and one living – I love them both. (And no, they never met -sadly)
2. Don’t make me come back there. (Especially important in a long car drive)
3. I don’t care who started it, I will finish it. (Ditto for the long car drive but also important for everyday life)
4. Wear clean underwear in case you get run over by a bus. (Or… in case I throw you under the bus because now I’m cranky)
5. Don’t chew with food in your mouth (Oh! Sorry, I meant ‘talk with food in your mouth’ and yes, I’ve actually said that)
6. Talk with your mother, not at her. (She’s your safety rope, are you hers?)
7. If she’s not a current part of your life, honour her memory because without her, you would not be here.
8. If she is still a part of your life, call her or give her plenty of hugs. (She seriously deserves them.)
9. Compassion is everything.
10.So is dignity.
I have 2 mothers, one dead and one living – I love them both. (And no, they never met -sadly)
Tuesday, 12 April 2011
Massive Knots
Well, Foal has finally progressed to shoelaces! I know, he’s 8 (nearly 9) and really should have passed that milestone years ago but (and I stress the but) he’s very stubborn. We’re talking about a child who is an angel at school and then has the massive possibility of turning into a demon at home.
He’s the same child who takes most of winter to convince to wear a jumper and the same child who takes the most of summer to get out of it.
Anyway, he finally decided that he did not want to be the last one in his class still wearing velcro-tab shoes! (Bonus!!! Especially since his shoes were already falling apart and we haven’t even reached the end of the first term yet)
So, we bought him shoes with shoelaces. Then he had to learn how to tie them. I’m a girl, so I was taught to make a cross, tie, then make butterfly wings and then cross and tie them. I showed him the same way. He almost fell over he was laughing so hard!
Him: I can’t make butterfly wings.
Me: Yes. You can, it’s not that hard.
Him: No, I’m not calling them that. What about bunny ears?
Me: I guess that works too...
So we did. He’s pretty much got the hang of tying shoelace. Now he just needs to work on undoing them. Guess what massive knots I’m off to undo…
He’s the same child who takes most of winter to convince to wear a jumper and the same child who takes the most of summer to get out of it.
Anyway, he finally decided that he did not want to be the last one in his class still wearing velcro-tab shoes! (Bonus!!! Especially since his shoes were already falling apart and we haven’t even reached the end of the first term yet)
So, we bought him shoes with shoelaces. Then he had to learn how to tie them. I’m a girl, so I was taught to make a cross, tie, then make butterfly wings and then cross and tie them. I showed him the same way. He almost fell over he was laughing so hard!
Him: I can’t make butterfly wings.
Me: Yes. You can, it’s not that hard.
Him: No, I’m not calling them that. What about bunny ears?
Me: I guess that works too...
So we did. He’s pretty much got the hang of tying shoelace. Now he just needs to work on undoing them. Guess what massive knots I’m off to undo…
Sunday, 10 April 2011
10 things I want a bored scientist to research
Scientists get paid ridiculous amounts of money to research “stuff”. Some projects are worthwhile, some are fantastic and the rest? Well, they’re just a waste of money. Just in case, those scientists run out of potentially stupid projects, Here’s my list of suggestions:
What is the exact purpose of head lice exist? See my previous post.
Why do mosquitos exist? Again, I’d like to know their exact purpose and how they benefit the planet.
Why do mosquitos make that sound? You know, when they’re about to launch an attack. They'd be more successful if they were quiet.
How can one cicada sit outside my window and make so much noise? If it is to drive me crazy, it’s working.
Why does a 2 cm wide spider think it can take me on and win? Especially when I am actually trying to relocate it and it starts jumping at me. I have a shoe and will use it.
Why do spiders spin their web in a walkway? After the 10th person has walked through the web, doing the spider web dance, the spider should work out that maybe it should move.
Why do ants think they are welcome to set up home in my bathroom? There is no food in there, just water and cleaning stuff.
Why do flies appear as soon as human food appears? There aren’t any here yet but as soon as I start dinner, they’ll turn up, begging to come in.
Why don’t flies get the hint until the fly spray shows up? I just have to put the can on the counter and they disappear.
Why am I pre-occupied with bugs? Again, see my previous post…
What is the exact purpose of head lice exist? See my previous post.
Why do mosquitos exist? Again, I’d like to know their exact purpose and how they benefit the planet.
Why do mosquitos make that sound? You know, when they’re about to launch an attack. They'd be more successful if they were quiet.
How can one cicada sit outside my window and make so much noise? If it is to drive me crazy, it’s working.
Why does a 2 cm wide spider think it can take me on and win? Especially when I am actually trying to relocate it and it starts jumping at me. I have a shoe and will use it.
Why do spiders spin their web in a walkway? After the 10th person has walked through the web, doing the spider web dance, the spider should work out that maybe it should move.
Why do ants think they are welcome to set up home in my bathroom? There is no food in there, just water and cleaning stuff.
Why do flies appear as soon as human food appears? There aren’t any here yet but as soon as I start dinner, they’ll turn up, begging to come in.
Why don’t flies get the hint until the fly spray shows up? I just have to put the can on the counter and they disappear.
Why am I pre-occupied with bugs? Again, see my previous post…
Saturday, 9 April 2011
War on Bugs!
So… What did you do today? Even if it was watching paint dry, or the grass grow, I bet it was more fun than what I did. I had the wonderful maternal task of delousing the boys. (Why is it the mum’s job? Because it’s the dad’s job to polish the car.)
It always starts with the note sent home from school. You know, the one that starts, “Dear Parent / Caregiver, The presence of head lice has been detected in your child’s class…” I’m normally pretty diligent but with the weather cooling down, I figured I could take a break. And in my defence, I hadn’t seen any for quite a few months.
According to the information, there’s no need to rush around vacuuming and washing bedding because they don’t live for long but nobody seemed to know exactly how long. Do you know how long lice can survive away from the warmth of its host? I do because I did an experiment a few years back. I managed to ‘rescue a pair’ who were too busy playing with each other to notice that they had been relocated to a plastic cup. They survived for at least 24 hours. I reckon that’s more than enough time to hide and wait on pillows, chairs, hairbrushes and hats!
With the eldest being in school and day-care for over a decade, I am not a stranger to these bugs. And naturally, I’ve tried nearly every product that is available. Countless shampoos (both natural and chemical), that really cool zapper comb that promises to zap any bug it comes into contact with (until it choked on Pup’s hair and promptly quit its day job), and of course the conditioner and comb method. The conditioner and comb method are my preferred method of declaring war on those things. (Why do they even exist? They don’t seem to serve any purpose at all.)
I have often been tempted to just shave their heads, but, for some reason, they aren't to keen on that idea. (Something to do with image and how silly they would look.) So, for what it’s worth, here are my tips.
It always starts with the note sent home from school. You know, the one that starts, “Dear Parent / Caregiver, The presence of head lice has been detected in your child’s class…” I’m normally pretty diligent but with the weather cooling down, I figured I could take a break. And in my defence, I hadn’t seen any for quite a few months.
According to the information, there’s no need to rush around vacuuming and washing bedding because they don’t live for long but nobody seemed to know exactly how long. Do you know how long lice can survive away from the warmth of its host? I do because I did an experiment a few years back. I managed to ‘rescue a pair’ who were too busy playing with each other to notice that they had been relocated to a plastic cup. They survived for at least 24 hours. I reckon that’s more than enough time to hide and wait on pillows, chairs, hairbrushes and hats!
With the eldest being in school and day-care for over a decade, I am not a stranger to these bugs. And naturally, I’ve tried nearly every product that is available. Countless shampoos (both natural and chemical), that really cool zapper comb that promises to zap any bug it comes into contact with (until it choked on Pup’s hair and promptly quit its day job), and of course the conditioner and comb method. The conditioner and comb method are my preferred method of declaring war on those things. (Why do they even exist? They don’t seem to serve any purpose at all.)
I have often been tempted to just shave their heads, but, for some reason, they aren't to keen on that idea. (Something to do with image and how silly they would look.) So, for what it’s worth, here are my tips.
- Use a really good quality comb.
- Any conditioner will do, and make sure to cover all the hair. It slows the bugs down so you can actually catch them.
- Get rid of all the nits you find. If you don’t they will hatch and you will have wasted the day.
- Make sure you have a really strong light source. The sun cannot be relied on to stay shining bright. Just as soon as you spot something, the sun will disappear behind a cloud.
- Even if you think that speck is dirt, remove it. Rather safe than sorry because if you think those nits are small, wait until you see baby lice.
- Add some tea tree oil to shampoo and wash out the conditioner. Then comb the hair again thoroughly.
- Add some tea tree oil to a spray bottle of water and douse the child’s head with it before and after school. I also recommend combing the hair when the child gets back from school. Early detection never hurt anyone, except the bugs.
- Keep checking their heads and don’t make plans for rest of the week or guess what you’ll be doing in about two weeks time.
Sunday, 3 April 2011
The Stray
I have a confession to make. I am generally a good-hearted person but sometimes I get a 'little bit cranky’. (Dad would disagree that it's a little bit cranky but this is still my blog)
Yes I can get a 'little bit cranky' and this is one of those times so let’s just go back a bit…
Down our street are quite a few houses but one in particular is my own personal nightmare. About four years ago, there was a knock on the door, and, as you do, I wandered over to see who it was. (I was also desperately hoping it was not yet another salesperson because I really don’t like dealing with them either) It was a woman and basically our conversation went like this:
Her: Hello, you don’t know me but you are obviously a soft touch. My husband needs our car so that he can get to work to pick strawberries, I need you to take our son to school and then bring him home in the afternoons.
Me: How do you know what school we go to?
Her: I was parked behind you at the school and followed you home. It would be so nice of you to relieve me of my parental duties of playing taxi for the snot-nosed brat. Besides I have other more important things to do, like sleep all day and recover from Thursday night bowling.
Me: Ok. (Fantastic! Now I have a stalker who lives down the road!)
Obviously that conversation was not 100% accurate but it was a while ago. I assumed that it would be a short term thing because they were trying to save money for another car (she actually did say so). I also stupidly assumed there’d be some sort of reciprocation. Sadly, there was no offer for petrol money, or the remote suggestion of she’ll pick up my boys because she’s got the car. Instead, there was just the lazy, sulking woman who had dragged herself from wherever she’d been lying to walk her son home. There was never ever a thank-you.
After a while I noticed that their car was often in the driveway and I got a 'little bit cranky’. I suggested to her that maybe her kid could catch the bus. She replied that there wasn’t one. Because I’m obsessive (I prefer the word persistent –thank-you very much) I decided to look into it and would you believe that there were actually TWO bus services they could use?! She only needed to walk him a little bit further. Oh! And actually pay someone for the service! I printed out the information and gave it to her. She only got the hint when I set Dad on her and he told her no more. Interestingly enough, the kid then caught the bus and I didn’t have to deal with them. They moved a few months later and sometimes I think, was it just me? (Then I get over it)
About two years ago, Dad and I had just come home from shopping. A woman’s voice called out. Again, as you do, I went to investigate. She was holding a dog’s collar and wanted to know if we knew where it lived. I told her no. She asked me to take responsibility because she needed to get back to work and the stupid mutt was running all over the busy road. I agreed, mainly because the dog was very friendly, needed a bath and the lady needed to go back to work. I phoned the local council and gave them the information on the dog’s collar and they managed to find the owner. He lives in THAT HOUSE!!! Anyway, to keep this story short, the dog owner wandered over and took the dog back home again. The mongrel had escaped when his wife went shopping!
Back to The Stray… About a year ago, there was a knock on the door (and by now you know what I did) There was a young boy (4) standing there. That conversation went a bit like this…
Him: Can I come and play?
Me: No, where’s your mum?
Him: She’s not here.
Me: Where do you live?
Him: Not here.
Then I noticed a man down the street, calling for him to come home.
Me: I think your dad wants you to go home.
Him: That’s not my dad.
Yes, it was his dad but what was even worse was it was the HOUSE!!! Again!!!
Apparently the dad had split up with the mum and they had shared custody. Shame and he gets so bored… No one else to play with…
So yes, I said he could come and play… The kid turned into a Houdini. He’d escape from his home and turn up here. I’d march him back if he was on his own. Most of the time, his dad or grandparents didn’t even know he was missing. The worst was when Granddad (that dog owner) turned up and asked if I knew where the kid was. I guess they found him but they never told me…
I told the dad the kid could play but only if he turned up with an adult. If the kid was flying solo, I’d walk him back home.
The last time he came to play, his dad said it was just for an hour. Two hours later, I walked him home.
His dad was a bit annoyed because he was “just going to finish his coffee”. I got a little bit cranky. (It’s a 2 minute walk – I doubt the coffee will go anywhere!!!)
We hadn’t seen The Stray for a while, so I thought they’d got the hint. But No! He was back last Saturday (alone), yesterday (alone) and both times I sent him home. (Yes, I watched him until I could see one of his family members watching him – I’m not totally heartless)
Today, he turned up WITH HIS DAD!!! At 4:00 on a Sunday afternoon!!! He asked if he could come and play. I said no.
Time for The Stray to go but why do I feel so bad? I don't like that house!
Yes I can get a 'little bit cranky' and this is one of those times so let’s just go back a bit…
Down our street are quite a few houses but one in particular is my own personal nightmare. About four years ago, there was a knock on the door, and, as you do, I wandered over to see who it was. (I was also desperately hoping it was not yet another salesperson because I really don’t like dealing with them either) It was a woman and basically our conversation went like this:
Her: Hello, you don’t know me but you are obviously a soft touch. My husband needs our car so that he can get to work to pick strawberries, I need you to take our son to school and then bring him home in the afternoons.
Me: How do you know what school we go to?
Her: I was parked behind you at the school and followed you home. It would be so nice of you to relieve me of my parental duties of playing taxi for the snot-nosed brat. Besides I have other more important things to do, like sleep all day and recover from Thursday night bowling.
Me: Ok. (Fantastic! Now I have a stalker who lives down the road!)
Obviously that conversation was not 100% accurate but it was a while ago. I assumed that it would be a short term thing because they were trying to save money for another car (she actually did say so). I also stupidly assumed there’d be some sort of reciprocation. Sadly, there was no offer for petrol money, or the remote suggestion of she’ll pick up my boys because she’s got the car. Instead, there was just the lazy, sulking woman who had dragged herself from wherever she’d been lying to walk her son home. There was never ever a thank-you.
After a while I noticed that their car was often in the driveway and I got a 'little bit cranky’. I suggested to her that maybe her kid could catch the bus. She replied that there wasn’t one. Because I’m obsessive (I prefer the word persistent –thank-you very much) I decided to look into it and would you believe that there were actually TWO bus services they could use?! She only needed to walk him a little bit further. Oh! And actually pay someone for the service! I printed out the information and gave it to her. She only got the hint when I set Dad on her and he told her no more. Interestingly enough, the kid then caught the bus and I didn’t have to deal with them. They moved a few months later and sometimes I think, was it just me? (Then I get over it)
About two years ago, Dad and I had just come home from shopping. A woman’s voice called out. Again, as you do, I went to investigate. She was holding a dog’s collar and wanted to know if we knew where it lived. I told her no. She asked me to take responsibility because she needed to get back to work and the stupid mutt was running all over the busy road. I agreed, mainly because the dog was very friendly, needed a bath and the lady needed to go back to work. I phoned the local council and gave them the information on the dog’s collar and they managed to find the owner. He lives in THAT HOUSE!!! Anyway, to keep this story short, the dog owner wandered over and took the dog back home again. The mongrel had escaped when his wife went shopping!
Back to The Stray… About a year ago, there was a knock on the door (and by now you know what I did) There was a young boy (4) standing there. That conversation went a bit like this…
Him: Can I come and play?
Me: No, where’s your mum?
Him: She’s not here.
Me: Where do you live?
Him: Not here.
Then I noticed a man down the street, calling for him to come home.
Me: I think your dad wants you to go home.
Him: That’s not my dad.
Yes, it was his dad but what was even worse was it was the HOUSE!!! Again!!!
Apparently the dad had split up with the mum and they had shared custody. Shame and he gets so bored… No one else to play with…
So yes, I said he could come and play… The kid turned into a Houdini. He’d escape from his home and turn up here. I’d march him back if he was on his own. Most of the time, his dad or grandparents didn’t even know he was missing. The worst was when Granddad (that dog owner) turned up and asked if I knew where the kid was. I guess they found him but they never told me…
I told the dad the kid could play but only if he turned up with an adult. If the kid was flying solo, I’d walk him back home.
The last time he came to play, his dad said it was just for an hour. Two hours later, I walked him home.
His dad was a bit annoyed because he was “just going to finish his coffee”. I got a little bit cranky. (It’s a 2 minute walk – I doubt the coffee will go anywhere!!!)
We hadn’t seen The Stray for a while, so I thought they’d got the hint. But No! He was back last Saturday (alone), yesterday (alone) and both times I sent him home. (Yes, I watched him until I could see one of his family members watching him – I’m not totally heartless)
Today, he turned up WITH HIS DAD!!! At 4:00 on a Sunday afternoon!!! He asked if he could come and play. I said no.
Time for The Stray to go but why do I feel so bad? I don't like that house!
Saturday, 2 April 2011
A Quick Update - Student Leader
Ready for another post about Cub?
He has been made a "Student Leader" for the year! He has a certificate AND a badge! How awesome is that?! Guess who the proud parents are!!!
I only wish the school had told us so we could have had the opportunity to see him get his badge. And no, he didn't know about it either. It was a surprise for him too... He reckons he didn't bother to apply but obviously his teachers and peers did! Yes! I'm massively proud of him!!!
On a side note - When he showed Pup his badge, Pup said, "I had one of them too." Sadly, I had to correct him and tell him that no, he did not actually have one of them and neither did any of his friends... (Lesson learnt Pup - don't take away someone else's glory)
He has been made a "Student Leader" for the year! He has a certificate AND a badge! How awesome is that?! Guess who the proud parents are!!!
I only wish the school had told us so we could have had the opportunity to see him get his badge. And no, he didn't know about it either. It was a surprise for him too... He reckons he didn't bother to apply but obviously his teachers and peers did! Yes! I'm massively proud of him!!!
On a side note - When he showed Pup his badge, Pup said, "I had one of them too." Sadly, I had to correct him and tell him that no, he did not actually have one of them and neither did any of his friends... (Lesson learnt Pup - don't take away someone else's glory)
Saturday, 26 March 2011
Leadership Camps! My First Year 7 camp!
Pup is now in Year 10, Cub is in Year 7 and Foal is in Year 3!
The main focus of this post is Cub… I’m facing a similar issue I had with Pup ending primary school. (To be honest, I’m the first to say - I know I didn’t cope but he did)
But this time it’s worse. This time the school is actually holding the seniors camp! (Pup’s camp was cancelled due to “lack of interest”. Actually most of the Year 7 boys decided to boycott the camp and that’s why it was cancelled)
I think I coped quite well with Cub’s Year 6 camp (held at the school for a one night sleep over, where I could see him when we dropped his brother off) but this one is a whole new game. This time he’s not going to be just up the road, it’s not just for one night and I can’t help him! (Clearly my issues – thank you for pointing that out)
Cub is massively excited for “His Year 7 Camp” so I need to be brave and suck it up. Here’s my story because I’m obviously not Cub.
Before Camp
We’ve spent the day before camp getting all his stuff together. Who knew that a human could be alive for that long and still need more stuff?! He only needed more old shorts, old shirts with collars, undies, socks and the list can go on. He’s only going for 3 nights and 4 days!?
1st day of Camp
On the way to school, he was so excited, “Drive faster!” Dad asked him if he needed any help getting his stuff to where it should be, and he’s replied, “NO! That would be embarrassing!” So just a quick kiss from him (in the car) and he was gone! Embraced by his mates. Enveloped in the masses. Gone until Friday. I miss him already.
After school it was quiet. As Cub would say, “Too quiet!” and then make a noise!!!Dinner time was the hardest. 4 plates instead of 5. Not looking forward to bedtime.
2nd day of Camp
I’m still not enjoying his absence. I’ve had this awful feeling in the pit of my belly all day and I don’t know why. Maybe it’s just because he’s not here? I’m hoping that’s all it is but like Dad said, “If it is important, they will phone”.
Well, they haven’t phoned, so he must be alright. Unless it’s the whole Halloween disco thing again. He was so excited to go to that too! The excitement lasted for about 10 minutes after he was dropped off. Then he wanted to go home. The novelty wore off. One of the teachers “encouraged” him to stay until the end. I’m worried the same thing could be happening.
Is he eating? I don’t know. He’s a vegetarian, his choice, so I had to put that on the form. Then he got cranky with me for putting that on the form because he was the only one! (He told me he would like to eat meat but he doesn’t like the taste of meat, therefore we agreed he’s a vegetarian)
I can’t call him unless it’s an emergency, and then it’s a case of leave your name, phone number, reason, and we’ll get back to you. Obviously questions like, “Do you want to mow the lawn and get paid?” or “Do you want chocolate when you come home?” simply don’t fit into the EMERGENCY category.
Clearly the teachers have had to deal with the more neurotic (I prefer the word “caring”) parents in the past and they simply don’t have time for the rest of us more “caring” parents, who just want to say, “Goodnight and I love you” (No! Don’t panic! I did not do that! I wanted to but didn’t because I didn’t want to embarrass Cub)
3rd day of Camp
I am so glad there’s only one more sleep until Cub comes back home. I think today was the best where I’ve coped. I still felt a bit lost but a bit better - Yay me! Maybe I’m growing up!
I hope he’s enjoyed himself,
I hope he didn’t go hungry,
I hope he slept well,
I hope he coped better than I, and finally
I hope he’s going to be happy when he comes home
I guess we’ll find out tomorrow.
Last Day
Cub is back - Yay!!! He enjoyed himself big time (relief for me). He reckons that the best bit was the beach and there was no bad bit. Yes, he had plenty to eat. The first night was fish and chips (bonus) He tried some fish and liked it. Unfortunately, we don't know what type of fish but whatever it was I am more than happy to cook it! He's very tanned and looks fantastic. He's all talked out and is now reading his comic books. We're just giving him a bit of space to adjust back to being home.
The main focus of this post is Cub… I’m facing a similar issue I had with Pup ending primary school. (To be honest, I’m the first to say - I know I didn’t cope but he did)
But this time it’s worse. This time the school is actually holding the seniors camp! (Pup’s camp was cancelled due to “lack of interest”. Actually most of the Year 7 boys decided to boycott the camp and that’s why it was cancelled)
I think I coped quite well with Cub’s Year 6 camp (held at the school for a one night sleep over, where I could see him when we dropped his brother off) but this one is a whole new game. This time he’s not going to be just up the road, it’s not just for one night and I can’t help him! (Clearly my issues – thank you for pointing that out)
Cub is massively excited for “His Year 7 Camp” so I need to be brave and suck it up. Here’s my story because I’m obviously not Cub.
Before Camp
We’ve spent the day before camp getting all his stuff together. Who knew that a human could be alive for that long and still need more stuff?! He only needed more old shorts, old shirts with collars, undies, socks and the list can go on. He’s only going for 3 nights and 4 days!?
1st day of Camp
On the way to school, he was so excited, “Drive faster!” Dad asked him if he needed any help getting his stuff to where it should be, and he’s replied, “NO! That would be embarrassing!” So just a quick kiss from him (in the car) and he was gone! Embraced by his mates. Enveloped in the masses. Gone until Friday. I miss him already.
After school it was quiet. As Cub would say, “Too quiet!” and then make a noise!!!Dinner time was the hardest. 4 plates instead of 5. Not looking forward to bedtime.
2nd day of Camp
I’m still not enjoying his absence. I’ve had this awful feeling in the pit of my belly all day and I don’t know why. Maybe it’s just because he’s not here? I’m hoping that’s all it is but like Dad said, “If it is important, they will phone”.
Well, they haven’t phoned, so he must be alright. Unless it’s the whole Halloween disco thing again. He was so excited to go to that too! The excitement lasted for about 10 minutes after he was dropped off. Then he wanted to go home. The novelty wore off. One of the teachers “encouraged” him to stay until the end. I’m worried the same thing could be happening.
Is he eating? I don’t know. He’s a vegetarian, his choice, so I had to put that on the form. Then he got cranky with me for putting that on the form because he was the only one! (He told me he would like to eat meat but he doesn’t like the taste of meat, therefore we agreed he’s a vegetarian)
I can’t call him unless it’s an emergency, and then it’s a case of leave your name, phone number, reason, and we’ll get back to you. Obviously questions like, “Do you want to mow the lawn and get paid?” or “Do you want chocolate when you come home?” simply don’t fit into the EMERGENCY category.
Clearly the teachers have had to deal with the more neurotic (I prefer the word “caring”) parents in the past and they simply don’t have time for the rest of us more “caring” parents, who just want to say, “Goodnight and I love you” (No! Don’t panic! I did not do that! I wanted to but didn’t because I didn’t want to embarrass Cub)
3rd day of Camp
I am so glad there’s only one more sleep until Cub comes back home. I think today was the best where I’ve coped. I still felt a bit lost but a bit better - Yay me! Maybe I’m growing up!
I hope he’s enjoyed himself,
I hope he didn’t go hungry,
I hope he slept well,
I hope he coped better than I, and finally
I hope he’s going to be happy when he comes home
I guess we’ll find out tomorrow.
Last Day
Cub is back - Yay!!! He enjoyed himself big time (relief for me). He reckons that the best bit was the beach and there was no bad bit. Yes, he had plenty to eat. The first night was fish and chips (bonus) He tried some fish and liked it. Unfortunately, we don't know what type of fish but whatever it was I am more than happy to cook it! He's very tanned and looks fantastic. He's all talked out and is now reading his comic books. We're just giving him a bit of space to adjust back to being home.
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