We had another youngster over yesterday. Tristan is one month older, 3 or 4 lbs heavier and about six inches taller. The boy is a monster. Fin took it all in his stride and once again immediately struck up a conversation. They sat down across from each other chatting away. Tristan grew tired of that and decided to explore. He knows how to crawl. We need to do some child proofing. Fin watching the giant move around and tried rocking but it wasn't enough to get him moving, so he shouted at Tristan to get his attention and tell him to crawl back over to him so they could continue their conversation.
We've started feeding Fin meats to go along with his fruit and veg. We've also increased his portion size and that seems to be helping him sleep longer through the night. (touch wood) He's like a little bird with his mouth open waiting to be fed. He screeches louder than a bird if you don't move the spoon fast enough. Yesterday he snatched the food from the spoon, on the way to his mouth. It was like a snake striking out.
I prepared his meals for our flight on Friday. He is getting chicken, potatoes with cheese, and carrots followed by pureed apples. He had a preview for dinner tonight and apparently it was a hit. Hope the flight isn't too traumatic for him or any of the other passengers. Well must go finish packing and will try to post one more tomorrow before we leave. Ciao for now.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Just Little Snipets
My Goodness, I'm getting worse not better. Thank you all who still check in. I'm just going to some little tid bits till we leave to the UK on Friday. Over the last couple of weeks we've had friends from out of town stay, been on a short trip to Naniamo(which is on Vancouver Island), and had been on a short harbour cruise.
Gas (petrol) has dropped down in price to just under a dollar/litre which is the lowest it's been in quite a while. I honestly never thought it would get that low again. Just over a couple of months ago it was over $1.20/litre. The change in weather we've had has kept me from painting. It was our first rain in 41 days, so the summer has been a good one. It is certainly cooler now.
The other weekend we were invited over to Kelly and Davids' place for dinner. They've got a little one Evan, who is about a year and a half. When we arrived Evan was sitting on the floor playing with his toys and we placed Fin down beside him. Finlay thought this was the greatest thing ever. He started laughing, belly laughing and just wouldn't stop. He was laughing so hard he rolled right back, bang his head and still carried on laughing. Evan was really good with him and would come over and share his toys, pat Fin on the head and give him a hug. Finlay had a great time. He really likes other children.
This weekend The Port of Vancouver along with the City of North Vancouver were giving free tours of the inner harbour, talking about it's history and showing of the working aspect of the harbour which most people don't get to see. The trip took about 45 mins and Fin spent most of the time talking to the baby at the next table, never mind looking at all the ships. He really chatted up quite the storm. I think he kind of spooked the other child a little. Dad did him proud by winning a small, stuffed Salty Sam the Seagull toy, by answering a trivia question correctly. Apparently, Salty Sam is the mascot of the port. I'm not a fan of the rats with wings myself but this fellow in his sailor hat is kinda cute(?).
When we were in Nanaimo, Fin and I went for a long walk along a riverside path that took us to a park. It was a great place, there was a rodedendrum(sp) garden(not in blume), a petting zoo(that is only open in summer months) but the duck pond did have ducks. When we got there the ducks were just loittering with intent. Soon enough, someone pulled up and started feeding the ducks. Now that really got Fin's attention. The folks were good enough to throw some feed down in front of where we were sitting so he could get a closer look. He was sitting on my leg leaning as far forward as he could with a big grin on his face.
The other thing that made me chuckle, thinking about that trip to the Island, was how I got him back to sleep after Ella woke up early to go to work. Normally there is some kind of fuss when you lay him down because he knows it usually means nap time. The great thing about our hotel room there was a ceiling fan over Fin's bed. I set the fan on as slow as it would go, pointed it out to Fin before laying him down and he became quite entranced by it and just drifted quietly off to sleep. One for the good guys.
Gas (petrol) has dropped down in price to just under a dollar/litre which is the lowest it's been in quite a while. I honestly never thought it would get that low again. Just over a couple of months ago it was over $1.20/litre. The change in weather we've had has kept me from painting. It was our first rain in 41 days, so the summer has been a good one. It is certainly cooler now.
The other weekend we were invited over to Kelly and Davids' place for dinner. They've got a little one Evan, who is about a year and a half. When we arrived Evan was sitting on the floor playing with his toys and we placed Fin down beside him. Finlay thought this was the greatest thing ever. He started laughing, belly laughing and just wouldn't stop. He was laughing so hard he rolled right back, bang his head and still carried on laughing. Evan was really good with him and would come over and share his toys, pat Fin on the head and give him a hug. Finlay had a great time. He really likes other children.
This weekend The Port of Vancouver along with the City of North Vancouver were giving free tours of the inner harbour, talking about it's history and showing of the working aspect of the harbour which most people don't get to see. The trip took about 45 mins and Fin spent most of the time talking to the baby at the next table, never mind looking at all the ships. He really chatted up quite the storm. I think he kind of spooked the other child a little. Dad did him proud by winning a small, stuffed Salty Sam the Seagull toy, by answering a trivia question correctly. Apparently, Salty Sam is the mascot of the port. I'm not a fan of the rats with wings myself but this fellow in his sailor hat is kinda cute(?).
When we were in Nanaimo, Fin and I went for a long walk along a riverside path that took us to a park. It was a great place, there was a rodedendrum(sp) garden(not in blume), a petting zoo(that is only open in summer months) but the duck pond did have ducks. When we got there the ducks were just loittering with intent. Soon enough, someone pulled up and started feeding the ducks. Now that really got Fin's attention. The folks were good enough to throw some feed down in front of where we were sitting so he could get a closer look. He was sitting on my leg leaning as far forward as he could with a big grin on his face.
The other thing that made me chuckle, thinking about that trip to the Island, was how I got him back to sleep after Ella woke up early to go to work. Normally there is some kind of fuss when you lay him down because he knows it usually means nap time. The great thing about our hotel room there was a ceiling fan over Fin's bed. I set the fan on as slow as it would go, pointed it out to Fin before laying him down and he became quite entranced by it and just drifted quietly off to sleep. One for the good guys.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Weekend post? What's that about
Hello all. Yes feeling guilty for not being on top of things but that seems to be par for the course right now. By the way did you know it was the Canadian Open this weekend? Que? I learned English from a book. Anyhoo...
The boy is well. I've been busy trying to sell the van and paint the house plus try to keep up the house, at which I'm failing, so it feels like I've been neglecting him. He's had more attention from his Grandparents then I probably would have given him but non the less. I've had three gentlemen test drive the van today. One offer, one wants to take the van in to have his mechanic look at it and one drove it this evening(with Dad) and will call me tomorrow. I've only managed to get a bit more of the painting done but working away at it bits and pieces. Tomorrow hoping to have three out of the four sides finished.
No real news with the boy. We went to the doctors yesterday, to have a small rash on his leg checked out. Exam(SP) which is probably brought on by his teething and looks worse when its wet,ie swimming, or when he is hot. Received our prescription and carried on. From the doctors we strolled down to Honeys Donuts for a coffee and a donut. For those of you who have not been to Honeys it is worth the air fare to come to Vancouver for one of their honey glazed donuts. From there we went to the playground in the park and Fin went down the slide. He didn't enjoy it as much as he has previously so we only went down it a couple of times. We were just about to leave when a couple of youngsters turned up and started playing around and that really got him excited. He really is intrigued by "older" kids.
We have Tim and Katie visiting us this weekend. Ella met Katie when she was at Purdue and Katie did a reading at our wedding. They have recently moved to Washington state, and made the trip up. We had a very pleasant evening when they arrived. Unfortunately they got held up in traffic and missed seeing Fin before we put him to bed.
Will tell more tomorrow. Promise
till then
The boy is well. I've been busy trying to sell the van and paint the house plus try to keep up the house, at which I'm failing, so it feels like I've been neglecting him. He's had more attention from his Grandparents then I probably would have given him but non the less. I've had three gentlemen test drive the van today. One offer, one wants to take the van in to have his mechanic look at it and one drove it this evening(with Dad) and will call me tomorrow. I've only managed to get a bit more of the painting done but working away at it bits and pieces. Tomorrow hoping to have three out of the four sides finished.
No real news with the boy. We went to the doctors yesterday, to have a small rash on his leg checked out. Exam(SP) which is probably brought on by his teething and looks worse when its wet,ie swimming, or when he is hot. Received our prescription and carried on. From the doctors we strolled down to Honeys Donuts for a coffee and a donut. For those of you who have not been to Honeys it is worth the air fare to come to Vancouver for one of their honey glazed donuts. From there we went to the playground in the park and Fin went down the slide. He didn't enjoy it as much as he has previously so we only went down it a couple of times. We were just about to leave when a couple of youngsters turned up and started playing around and that really got him excited. He really is intrigued by "older" kids.
We have Tim and Katie visiting us this weekend. Ella met Katie when she was at Purdue and Katie did a reading at our wedding. They have recently moved to Washington state, and made the trip up. We had a very pleasant evening when they arrived. Unfortunately they got held up in traffic and missed seeing Fin before we put him to bed.
Will tell more tomorrow. Promise
till then
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Victoria and Back
Yes we're alive. We managed to avoid any BC Ferries misfortunes ie crashes, brake failure etc.
Had a wonderful time in Victoria. Felt a bit guilty, it was like being on holiday, while poor Ella had to get up and go to work. Weather was brilliant, although the first day was quite windy, reminded me of St. Andrews. The boy was his usual chipper self although he didn't settle very well in his hotel cot and was awake every couple of hours. Probably didn't help he missed his afternoon nap with me hoping he would just fall asleep in his stroller.
He charmed the waiting staff at the hotel. The restaurant was on the 18th floor with views of the harbour. The first morning we had a window seat and Fin just spent the time until my french toast arrived staring down at the world below him. I think the cars moving held more of his attention then the sea planes taxiing, taking off and landing.I ate breakfast while Fin played with his rattle and the spare napkin, trying to make eye contact and smile at any one who would look over at him. By the third morning he had all of the waiting staff coming over to say good morning and get a smile. One of the waitress had a granddaughter the same age that she thought would make a good girlfriend for him.
I know that I don't take Fin out that much but walking around Victoria it was amazing how many people came up and talked to him and commented on what a nice smile he had. (a little boasting by a proud papa).
We managed to go swimming one day and he still remembered all his lessons from the previous weeks work. We spent most of our time out walking around the Olde Town which is old in Canadian terms. It is full of art galleries, boutiques and market stalls. There is also a nice walk along the harbour, where on Friday we saw a couple of tall ships and there was a classic boat show. The inner harbour dock was filled with beautiful wooden hulled ships all, mahogany and teak lacquered and polished. We were able to walk among them and talk to the owners. Even here Fin charmed the floating rich with his charms. All the ships had their history posted to read. One of them had been commissioned by Hanna Barbba, the cartoonist who created the Flinstones and Yogi Bear. There were also a couple of converted fishing boats "Fifers" from St. Monans in Fife, Scotland. I'm looking forward to showing Fin the place where they were built when we get up to the East Neuk. We had a couple of really nice meals in the evening, Thai and Tapas as well as finding a brewpub that makes the closest thing I've found to English bitter since we move to Canada. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face as we tried the sampler of eight different draught craft beers. I really am a sad simple man. Fin just took all this, from the ferry trip, to the long days and the wind blowing in his stride. He was happy in his stroller smiling at whoever would pay attention to him and taking in the sights and sounds, a real people watcher.
My folks have got to spend a fair bit of time with him since we've been back. They baby sat Saturday night for a few hours while we went to a BBQ at Fred's place. I've spent Saturday throughout to today painting the outside of the house while either Ella, Mum or Dad have been looking after Fin. No, still not done but getting there. The north side is finished, two coats, looking good. The front of the house is nearly done as is a good portion of the back. It is the south side that will cause problems me thinks. It is quite high and with the little extention it makes is almost impossible to reach just by ladder alone. Will keep you posted. I think work on the house will slow down for a bit now as my babysitters (Mum and Dad)are busy for the next few days. I just can't be up a ladder with paint on my fingers and hope he will sit happily for me or not wake up from his nap needing a cuddle but the goal is to get it finished before we head to the UK in two weeks.
thanks for hanging in there and checking in despite the slow down in frequency of posts. will try to do better.
Had a wonderful time in Victoria. Felt a bit guilty, it was like being on holiday, while poor Ella had to get up and go to work. Weather was brilliant, although the first day was quite windy, reminded me of St. Andrews. The boy was his usual chipper self although he didn't settle very well in his hotel cot and was awake every couple of hours. Probably didn't help he missed his afternoon nap with me hoping he would just fall asleep in his stroller.
He charmed the waiting staff at the hotel. The restaurant was on the 18th floor with views of the harbour. The first morning we had a window seat and Fin just spent the time until my french toast arrived staring down at the world below him. I think the cars moving held more of his attention then the sea planes taxiing, taking off and landing.I ate breakfast while Fin played with his rattle and the spare napkin, trying to make eye contact and smile at any one who would look over at him. By the third morning he had all of the waiting staff coming over to say good morning and get a smile. One of the waitress had a granddaughter the same age that she thought would make a good girlfriend for him.
I know that I don't take Fin out that much but walking around Victoria it was amazing how many people came up and talked to him and commented on what a nice smile he had. (a little boasting by a proud papa).
We managed to go swimming one day and he still remembered all his lessons from the previous weeks work. We spent most of our time out walking around the Olde Town which is old in Canadian terms. It is full of art galleries, boutiques and market stalls. There is also a nice walk along the harbour, where on Friday we saw a couple of tall ships and there was a classic boat show. The inner harbour dock was filled with beautiful wooden hulled ships all, mahogany and teak lacquered and polished. We were able to walk among them and talk to the owners. Even here Fin charmed the floating rich with his charms. All the ships had their history posted to read. One of them had been commissioned by Hanna Barbba, the cartoonist who created the Flinstones and Yogi Bear. There were also a couple of converted fishing boats "Fifers" from St. Monans in Fife, Scotland. I'm looking forward to showing Fin the place where they were built when we get up to the East Neuk. We had a couple of really nice meals in the evening, Thai and Tapas as well as finding a brewpub that makes the closest thing I've found to English bitter since we move to Canada. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face as we tried the sampler of eight different draught craft beers. I really am a sad simple man. Fin just took all this, from the ferry trip, to the long days and the wind blowing in his stride. He was happy in his stroller smiling at whoever would pay attention to him and taking in the sights and sounds, a real people watcher.
My folks have got to spend a fair bit of time with him since we've been back. They baby sat Saturday night for a few hours while we went to a BBQ at Fred's place. I've spent Saturday throughout to today painting the outside of the house while either Ella, Mum or Dad have been looking after Fin. No, still not done but getting there. The north side is finished, two coats, looking good. The front of the house is nearly done as is a good portion of the back. It is the south side that will cause problems me thinks. It is quite high and with the little extention it makes is almost impossible to reach just by ladder alone. Will keep you posted. I think work on the house will slow down for a bit now as my babysitters (Mum and Dad)are busy for the next few days. I just can't be up a ladder with paint on my fingers and hope he will sit happily for me or not wake up from his nap needing a cuddle but the goal is to get it finished before we head to the UK in two weeks.
thanks for hanging in there and checking in despite the slow down in frequency of posts. will try to do better.
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