Mark's nursery did a 'Faraway Fun Day to Scotland' today, and I had rostered (?) myself to help out, so I spent the morning awash in kilts, porridge and golf, and finished it tossing a caber. All good clean fun.
Mike freaked me out by walking into nursery at 11.45am when he should have been at work. Every time he does that I think he's been sacked and sent home. In fact he'd finally finished a meeting at Stones Cafe in North Yarmouth, and had stopped in on the way to the office for no particular reason. So I got him to take Ellie to school.
Mark and I went Target to buy things ready for me going out to work full-time and them going off to nursery/Nadja. Then we went to LL Bean to get him some shoes, and of course we had to look at the fish, and the stuffed animals, and the tents, and the giant boot, and... honestly I can't work out how we ever actually get any shopping done in that place.
We popped round to say hello and thank you to the Wallaces, then I started feeling sick, and have only just got back out of bed. No idea what happened there.
Am reading Madame Bovary and very much enjoying it.
Just to be boring I'd like to say a little something about snow. I've had enough of it. I hate it. I want it to go away. We have heavy claggy snow everywhere - 8 foot high snowbanks on the sides of the roads so you can't see round corners, on the trampoline making it sag right down, everywhere. Some of it is going to melt tomorrow, then it's going to snow again at the weekend. I've had enough now. I want to wear flip flops again, and leave the house without hats and gloves and snowpants and down jackets. I want my car to stay clean for more than five minutes after I wash it. I want to be able to drive down route 9 without unexpectedly losing the right hand lane to snowbanks. I want to be able to go for walks or to the playground without wearing snowshoes.
Next year we're just going to have to take up skiing. It's the only way to survive.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Home again
Just after I posted my last message a maintenance guy came through the door from the plane, then someone else gave us a thumbs up, then we all rushed on board thinking we'd take off any minute.
Then of course we sat there for about an hour waiting for some paperwork before we could take off.
Then had a very easy flight home. I was sat with a couple of very happy (ahhh drunk) people who chatted all the way in between drinking whisky and wine.
Portland is cold and snowy, and it was strange driving my own car rather than a car that's similar but still different (I have an Odyssey, we drove a Town and Country in Florida).
In the kitchen we found a stew, fresh bread, and apple pie, as well as milk etc in the fridge. My wonderful neighbours are responsible. Thank you Nadja and Carl.
They'd also carved out a path to the front door so the oil delivery guy managed to deliver, and we could actually get into the house to open the garage doors. And I managed to get the car into the garage, which was a nice bonus.
Not sure how I feel about being home. Bit depressed, bit stressed about all the changes we're about to make (work, nursery, Y care). But also a bit excited about the prospect of work and an income.
Right, off to bed.
Then of course we sat there for about an hour waiting for some paperwork before we could take off.
Then had a very easy flight home. I was sat with a couple of very happy (ahhh drunk) people who chatted all the way in between drinking whisky and wine.
Portland is cold and snowy, and it was strange driving my own car rather than a car that's similar but still different (I have an Odyssey, we drove a Town and Country in Florida).
In the kitchen we found a stew, fresh bread, and apple pie, as well as milk etc in the fridge. My wonderful neighbours are responsible. Thank you Nadja and Carl.
They'd also carved out a path to the front door so the oil delivery guy managed to deliver, and we could actually get into the house to open the garage doors. And I managed to get the car into the garage, which was a nice bonus.
Not sure how I feel about being home. Bit depressed, bit stressed about all the changes we're about to make (work, nursery, Y care). But also a bit excited about the prospect of work and an income.
Right, off to bed.
Philadelphia Airport
It all went swimmingly this morning. We had everything packed up and in the car in plenty of time, left Bradenton Beach feeling very sad, did the drive to Tampa over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which was amazing. Got to the airport with loads of time to spare, checked in no bother.
Said a sad goodbye to grandma Sue at Tampa Airport. She's taking a flight to Philadelphia too, but it's two hours after ours.
Kids were wonderful on the plane... apparently. I took a couple of Dramamine and slept through the entire flight. My whole body had that completely relaxed drugged feeling that you get when you're very tired and take the appropriate prescription drugs. Mike sat them all together, put Horton Hears a Who on the DVD player, and had a few minutes peace.
Got to Philly and rushed from one side of the airport to the other so we could be here for the 4.10pm takeoff. Just as we got to our gate they announced our aircraft has maintenance issues and is delayed by an hour. Oh well. It was too good to be true.
The US Airways guy at the desk just started announcing something about our delay, but the passengers all started shouting at him so he just walked off. We suspect he's gone for a cigarette and a bitch to his colleagues. The phone at the desk just rang, and we're thinking about answering it and asking whoever's on the other end if we can have a different plane please. What do you think?
Said a sad goodbye to grandma Sue at Tampa Airport. She's taking a flight to Philadelphia too, but it's two hours after ours.
Kids were wonderful on the plane... apparently. I took a couple of Dramamine and slept through the entire flight. My whole body had that completely relaxed drugged feeling that you get when you're very tired and take the appropriate prescription drugs. Mike sat them all together, put Horton Hears a Who on the DVD player, and had a few minutes peace.
Got to Philly and rushed from one side of the airport to the other so we could be here for the 4.10pm takeoff. Just as we got to our gate they announced our aircraft has maintenance issues and is delayed by an hour. Oh well. It was too good to be true.
The US Airways guy at the desk just started announcing something about our delay, but the passengers all started shouting at him so he just walked off. We suspect he's gone for a cigarette and a bitch to his colleagues. The phone at the desk just rang, and we're thinking about answering it and asking whoever's on the other end if we can have a different plane please. What do you think?
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Florida day six
70F and sunny today. We drove down to Long Boat Key to see how the rich people live but found it a bit depressing. Anna Maria Island is much nicer - just more relaxed, and I like the fact that all the development is low rise.
Went to Coquina Beach where we paddled, sunbathed, collected shells and talked about coming back here next year. Maybe invite my parents next year as well as Mike's mum.
Kids had a 'single scoop' ice cream. I keep falling for that one. If a single scoop is that big then I dread to think how big a double scoop is. Still it would explain all the people who are so fat they need mobility scooters to get round Disney or the mall.
Had lunch at the Gulf Drive Cafe - not quite as good as their breakfast but a spectacular location overlooking the beach, and lovely staff.
Kids then spent the last few hours of the afternoon in the pool. Ellie is now trying to dive, which is a bit difficult with armbands on, and involves bellyflopping in then looking delighted with herself.
Went over the road to the beach for the sunset. It was spectacular, so we took about a million photos, and raced around being stupid.
Then came home, tried to empty the freezer into our bellies, put the kids to bed, and packed.
Tomorrow we go back to Maine. They've had about 18 inches of snow in the past week. The drive has been ploughed but apparently the snowbank at the end of the drive is so big it's blocking the garage. The path to the front door will be horrible to dig, but I have to do it soon so the oil delivery guy can deliver oil.
I have so much to do when we get home, and then I start work next Monday. Yikes...
Went to Coquina Beach where we paddled, sunbathed, collected shells and talked about coming back here next year. Maybe invite my parents next year as well as Mike's mum.
Kids had a 'single scoop' ice cream. I keep falling for that one. If a single scoop is that big then I dread to think how big a double scoop is. Still it would explain all the people who are so fat they need mobility scooters to get round Disney or the mall.
Had lunch at the Gulf Drive Cafe - not quite as good as their breakfast but a spectacular location overlooking the beach, and lovely staff.
Kids then spent the last few hours of the afternoon in the pool. Ellie is now trying to dive, which is a bit difficult with armbands on, and involves bellyflopping in then looking delighted with herself.
Went over the road to the beach for the sunset. It was spectacular, so we took about a million photos, and raced around being stupid.
Then came home, tried to empty the freezer into our bellies, put the kids to bed, and packed.
Tomorrow we go back to Maine. They've had about 18 inches of snow in the past week. The drive has been ploughed but apparently the snowbank at the end of the drive is so big it's blocking the garage. The path to the front door will be horrible to dig, but I have to do it soon so the oil delivery guy can deliver oil.
I have so much to do when we get home, and then I start work next Monday. Yikes...
Brief aside about flights
Mike tried to check in last night for our Delta flights back to Maine. (Not sure why, as they have had more than a foot of snow.)
Anyway, he couldn't find our reservation on the system, so he called Delta. They couldn't find it either.
It turns out that when the US Airways agent in Portland Airport cancelled our ticket TO Florida he also cancelled our tickets BACK from Florida.
Never mind that we specifically asked him not to, or that he promised he wouldn't. Nor that if we'd known he was cancelling our entire trip we'd have bought return flights here with JetBlue, rather than singles.
So at 11pm last night we were faced with having no flights home. We checked online and actually found some flights via Chicago for about $550 total, which was a good price, but it involved flying in a small twin-prop Bombadier from Chicago to Portland - after the recent Bombadier crash in Buffalo that wouldn't be my first choice of transport, plus they're small and very uncomfortable to fly in.
Anyway the first US Airways rep basically said 'tough', his supervisor said 'tough', by the point Mike was almost apopleptic and asked for yet another supervisor. SHE spoke to HER supervisor who agreed they should fly us home for the price of our original flights. So she booked us onto some flights tomorrow, and emailed us the confirmation. It only took an hour and a half, and us getting very cross.
So it looks like we will be flying home tomorrow, and not sitting in Tampa Airport wondering what to do next.
Don't want to go home.
Anyway, he couldn't find our reservation on the system, so he called Delta. They couldn't find it either.
It turns out that when the US Airways agent in Portland Airport cancelled our ticket TO Florida he also cancelled our tickets BACK from Florida.
Never mind that we specifically asked him not to, or that he promised he wouldn't. Nor that if we'd known he was cancelling our entire trip we'd have bought return flights here with JetBlue, rather than singles.
So at 11pm last night we were faced with having no flights home. We checked online and actually found some flights via Chicago for about $550 total, which was a good price, but it involved flying in a small twin-prop Bombadier from Chicago to Portland - after the recent Bombadier crash in Buffalo that wouldn't be my first choice of transport, plus they're small and very uncomfortable to fly in.
Anyway the first US Airways rep basically said 'tough', his supervisor said 'tough', by the point Mike was almost apopleptic and asked for yet another supervisor. SHE spoke to HER supervisor who agreed they should fly us home for the price of our original flights. So she booked us onto some flights tomorrow, and emailed us the confirmation. It only took an hour and a half, and us getting very cross.
So it looks like we will be flying home tomorrow, and not sitting in Tampa Airport wondering what to do next.
Don't want to go home.
Florida day five
Went to Disney!
Will do more details later, but kids loved it. It was absolutely packed and reminded me a lot of Alton Towers.
We got in half price, thank you to a very kind friend who I won't name.
Started in Fantasyland doing all the kids' rides including Pooh Bear, Peter Pan, Barnstormer, driving cars around etc.
Mark was terrified of the Barnstormer but loved the cars. Everyone else loved everything.
Then we spent about a million dollars on hot dogs and fries, then separated to go on big rides.
We broke Splaish Mountain. Not sure what we did, but while we were on it it just stopped and would not restart. After half an hour or so they walked us off the ride, out the back exit, and gave us spare fast passes.
Hannah and I did Thunder Mountain which was very funny. Then we all met up and everyone but me did the Jungle Cruise.
Then Pirates of the Caribbean, the very silly Tiki Room, then Aladdin's Flying Carpets, which Mark point blank refused to go near.
Now getting on for 5pm and all tired, so took the steam train round to Tomorrow Land for a last ride and some food. Turned out the train didn't stop there and we found ourselves at the exit, so we left. Children all doing surprisingly well.
Drove out to the freeway then stopped off at Chilis somewhere for food. A guy came by and made balloon things for the kids - sword for Mark (he was delighted), butterfly for Ellie and donkey for Hannah. It was all just what we needed - some good food for less than a million dollars.
Then drove home, all quite uncomplicated really. Freeways much less bonkers at night.
So, Disney was brilliant, and the kids loved it. But the cost! My god! We got the entrance and the hotel at least half price, and it still cost us about $500 for the day for six people.
Will do more details later, but kids loved it. It was absolutely packed and reminded me a lot of Alton Towers.
We got in half price, thank you to a very kind friend who I won't name.
Started in Fantasyland doing all the kids' rides including Pooh Bear, Peter Pan, Barnstormer, driving cars around etc.
Mark was terrified of the Barnstormer but loved the cars. Everyone else loved everything.
Then we spent about a million dollars on hot dogs and fries, then separated to go on big rides.
We broke Splaish Mountain. Not sure what we did, but while we were on it it just stopped and would not restart. After half an hour or so they walked us off the ride, out the back exit, and gave us spare fast passes.
Hannah and I did Thunder Mountain which was very funny. Then we all met up and everyone but me did the Jungle Cruise.
Then Pirates of the Caribbean, the very silly Tiki Room, then Aladdin's Flying Carpets, which Mark point blank refused to go near.
Now getting on for 5pm and all tired, so took the steam train round to Tomorrow Land for a last ride and some food. Turned out the train didn't stop there and we found ourselves at the exit, so we left. Children all doing surprisingly well.
Drove out to the freeway then stopped off at Chilis somewhere for food. A guy came by and made balloon things for the kids - sword for Mark (he was delighted), butterfly for Ellie and donkey for Hannah. It was all just what we needed - some good food for less than a million dollars.
Then drove home, all quite uncomplicated really. Freeways much less bonkers at night.
So, Disney was brilliant, and the kids loved it. But the cost! My god! We got the entrance and the hotel at least half price, and it still cost us about $500 for the day for six people.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Florida day four
We played crazy golf this morning with the children. It was a total rip off at $7.50 per person for a very basic course, but the children had the best time. Mark especially just went round and round the course, having a whale of a time. The final hole was the funniest - everyone ended up with their balls in the water, as it were.
We avoided the temptations of the packed-out crepes restaurant, and got in the car to drive to Sarasota to visit some friends of Sue's from when she lived in Venezuela, Bruce and Pat Higgins. They were very welcoming, and the children got to play in their pool, and scream a lot.
Mark had a total meltdown, which we fixed by feeding him. I don't think he's all that well, but the main solution as usual was food, including the most delicious fresh bagels.
Then we had a 2.5 hour drive to Orlando. Florida freeways are madness. People sit in the fast lane at 70mph, or the middle lane at 65mph, so of course everyone else ends up either tailgating or undertaking. Everyone else was weaving in and out of the traffic. By the time we got to Orlando I wanted to be back in Maine where the roads are empty. (Well, apart from the fact that they're getting over a foot of snow right now.)
We checked into the Holiday Inn in about five minutes, then went to find food. We drove along International Drive giggling at the many funny sights, and decided to go to Bogards because it looked like it would be entertaining. I think it was supposed to be a faux biker restaurant, pretty expensive but the kids had fun watching the ice come down from the upper floor via a long plastic chute.
I fully intended to have the grand marnier chocolate cake but instead I just about fell asleep at the table after the main course, and had to be ladled gently into the car for the drive home.
Mike was very pleased that he managed to bodge the hotel TV to connect our DVD player to it. (Someone needs to tell Holiday Inn so they can stop people from doing that.) I snoozed while the children watched Horton Hears a Who in bed.
And now we're watching the Oscars and wondering if I will ever actually see any of these films.
The children have finally gone to sleep, and tomorrow Disney awaits us.
We avoided the temptations of the packed-out crepes restaurant, and got in the car to drive to Sarasota to visit some friends of Sue's from when she lived in Venezuela, Bruce and Pat Higgins. They were very welcoming, and the children got to play in their pool, and scream a lot.
Mark had a total meltdown, which we fixed by feeding him. I don't think he's all that well, but the main solution as usual was food, including the most delicious fresh bagels.
Then we had a 2.5 hour drive to Orlando. Florida freeways are madness. People sit in the fast lane at 70mph, or the middle lane at 65mph, so of course everyone else ends up either tailgating or undertaking. Everyone else was weaving in and out of the traffic. By the time we got to Orlando I wanted to be back in Maine where the roads are empty. (Well, apart from the fact that they're getting over a foot of snow right now.)
We checked into the Holiday Inn in about five minutes, then went to find food. We drove along International Drive giggling at the many funny sights, and decided to go to Bogards because it looked like it would be entertaining. I think it was supposed to be a faux biker restaurant, pretty expensive but the kids had fun watching the ice come down from the upper floor via a long plastic chute.
I fully intended to have the grand marnier chocolate cake but instead I just about fell asleep at the table after the main course, and had to be ladled gently into the car for the drive home.
Mike was very pleased that he managed to bodge the hotel TV to connect our DVD player to it. (Someone needs to tell Holiday Inn so they can stop people from doing that.) I snoozed while the children watched Horton Hears a Who in bed.
And now we're watching the Oscars and wondering if I will ever actually see any of these films.
The children have finally gone to sleep, and tomorrow Disney awaits us.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Florida day three
Weather beautiful today!
Spent the morning on the beach, building mermaids, filling holes in the beach with seawater, paddling in the small waves, and enjoying the sun.
Had lunch at the apartment, then spent the afternoon at the pool. Ellie worked out how to swim across the hot tub, while wearing swimming mask. Mark worked up the courage to get into the hot tub, then to get into it while the bubbles were running. He did have to tell me about 4,000 times 'Mummy the hot tub is all bubbly!'
I took a little walk to the other side of the island - overlooking the waterway between Anna Maria Island and Florida mainland. I watched a kingfisher diving, pelicans flying slowly across the water, and a white bird stand on one leg in the mud. It was very peaceful... apart from the jetskis.
By 5pm everyone was a bit sunburnt. Mike and I went out for dinner. We thought we'd try the Sand Bar and have a romantic meal overlooking the beach, but it was full of extremely slow moving 104 year olds, so we tried Hurricane Hanks instead. It was in a strip mall and looked completely nothing from the outside, but everyone raved about it so we went in. And it was very nice, thank you.
Mark very excited by the sea
Originally uploaded by jillian_werb
Spent the morning on the beach, building mermaids, filling holes in the beach with seawater, paddling in the small waves, and enjoying the sun.
Had lunch at the apartment, then spent the afternoon at the pool. Ellie worked out how to swim across the hot tub, while wearing swimming mask. Mark worked up the courage to get into the hot tub, then to get into it while the bubbles were running. He did have to tell me about 4,000 times 'Mummy the hot tub is all bubbly!'
I took a little walk to the other side of the island - overlooking the waterway between Anna Maria Island and Florida mainland. I watched a kingfisher diving, pelicans flying slowly across the water, and a white bird stand on one leg in the mud. It was very peaceful... apart from the jetskis.
By 5pm everyone was a bit sunburnt. Mike and I went out for dinner. We thought we'd try the Sand Bar and have a romantic meal overlooking the beach, but it was full of extremely slow moving 104 year olds, so we tried Hurricane Hanks instead. It was in a strip mall and looked completely nothing from the outside, but everyone raved about it so we went in. And it was very nice, thank you.
Mark very excited by the sea
Originally uploaded by jillian_werb
Ellie very excited that it's finally warm enough to go in the sea
Originally uploaded by jillian_werb
Friday, February 20, 2009
Florida day two
Kevin and Diana arrived looking hungry, so we drove about 0.2 miles to the Gulf Drive Cafe, where amazingly they found a table for eight within about five minutes. We didn't even have to stand over the previous incumbents and tut at how slow they were being over their coffees.
Kids, Mike and Kevin went and played on the beach till the food arrived. Then we gorged ourselves on the most delicious pancakes, french toast, fruit bowls, lattes, freshly squeezed juice and bacon.
Walked back along the beach with the children - think we might have to walk there for breakfast a few more times.
Spent the morning watching the children swimming in the pool again. It's sunny but windy, so it's kind of nice and kind of freezing.
Diana and Kevin headed back to Palm Beach by car, having cancelled Diana's flight. We had some lunch then decided to try out the free trolley bus. We had a great game of shadow tag while we waited at the stop, then we took the trolley to the top of the island, to the City Pier.
Windy doesn't even begin to describe it! I still had no warm top, so I popped into the shops and bought myself the warmest fur-lined fleece you could imagine. I was sniggering at the idea of wearing a fur-lined fleece in Florida, but it was heaven to be able to walk around without shivering. And of course it'll be handy for spring in Maine...
Had a walk to the end of the pier, ate some ice cream, then we decided it was too windy to go to the playground, and took the trolley home.
Now about to eat a chicken from Publix, which smells amazing... the chicken that is, not Publix. It's just a crummy supermarket full of zimmerframes and one Zimmerman struggling through the crowds of tanned OAPs.
Lots of photos below from today...
Ellie jumping in the pool backwards
Originally uploaded by jillian_werb
Kids, Mike and Kevin went and played on the beach till the food arrived. Then we gorged ourselves on the most delicious pancakes, french toast, fruit bowls, lattes, freshly squeezed juice and bacon.
Walked back along the beach with the children - think we might have to walk there for breakfast a few more times.
Spent the morning watching the children swimming in the pool again. It's sunny but windy, so it's kind of nice and kind of freezing.
Diana and Kevin headed back to Palm Beach by car, having cancelled Diana's flight. We had some lunch then decided to try out the free trolley bus. We had a great game of shadow tag while we waited at the stop, then we took the trolley to the top of the island, to the City Pier.
Windy doesn't even begin to describe it! I still had no warm top, so I popped into the shops and bought myself the warmest fur-lined fleece you could imagine. I was sniggering at the idea of wearing a fur-lined fleece in Florida, but it was heaven to be able to walk around without shivering. And of course it'll be handy for spring in Maine...
Had a walk to the end of the pier, ate some ice cream, then we decided it was too windy to go to the playground, and took the trolley home.
Now about to eat a chicken from Publix, which smells amazing... the chicken that is, not Publix. It's just a crummy supermarket full of zimmerframes and one Zimmerman struggling through the crowds of tanned OAPs.
Lots of photos below from today...
Ellie jumping in the pool backwards
Originally uploaded by jillian_werb
Florida day one
Should have blogged this yesterday but forgot.
Anyway Thursday morning the kids woke at 7am, after 4 hours sleep. I slept till 9.30am so felt slightly human.
Diana arrived - she's staying just over the road.
Weather cloudy and quite cold by Florida standards, due to rain this afternoon. Hmm, I blew an extra $1150 getting here so it could rain on us all?
Spent the morning watching the children in the lovely pool next to our apartment. It was just about warm enough to sit out there with a cardigan on, but I was regreting not bringing a warm jumper. Got into the hot tub to warm up.
Then we headed to the Sand Bar restaurant for lunch. Arrived to find Kevin there waiting for us, having driven 200 miles over from Palm Beach this morning!
Lovely place, sort of wooden shack on the beach, but definitely about to rain outside so we stayed indoors rather than roaming about the beautiful looking beach. We ate a lot of calamari, then a load more food. I had blackened grouper - it seemed traditional.
Then we spent our afternoon mostly dozing in the apartment, while watching the temperature drop outside.
Ran the kids round the beach before tea. It was beautiful, and they had the best time running in and out of the sea and getting their clothes wet.
Weather supposed to get worse tomorrow... hmm.
Anyway Thursday morning the kids woke at 7am, after 4 hours sleep. I slept till 9.30am so felt slightly human.
Diana arrived - she's staying just over the road.
Weather cloudy and quite cold by Florida standards, due to rain this afternoon. Hmm, I blew an extra $1150 getting here so it could rain on us all?
Spent the morning watching the children in the lovely pool next to our apartment. It was just about warm enough to sit out there with a cardigan on, but I was regreting not bringing a warm jumper. Got into the hot tub to warm up.
Then we headed to the Sand Bar restaurant for lunch. Arrived to find Kevin there waiting for us, having driven 200 miles over from Palm Beach this morning!
Lovely place, sort of wooden shack on the beach, but definitely about to rain outside so we stayed indoors rather than roaming about the beautiful looking beach. We ate a lot of calamari, then a load more food. I had blackened grouper - it seemed traditional.
Then we spent our afternoon mostly dozing in the apartment, while watching the temperature drop outside.
Ran the kids round the beach before tea. It was beautiful, and they had the best time running in and out of the sea and getting their clothes wet.
Weather supposed to get worse tomorrow... hmm.
Arrived at last
So the 6.30pm boarding time for our flight from JFK to Tampa ended up actually being a 9.30pm boarding, 10pm take off, and 1am arrival in Tampa. The children all slept on the plane then were asleep on their feet as we picked up luggage, picked up a hire car, and drove to Anna Maria Island.
It was entertaining trying to find I-75 from the airport. Our satnav maps bore no relation to reality. After 10 minutes of it telling us to do U-turns on the freeway we finally returned to the airport and tried again.
We drove over all sorts of bridges including the Sunshine Skyway. It's a shame it was dark because the views must have been amazing. Here it is in daylight...
Most bizarre moment of the journey was when Mike slammed on the brakes because of a pair of guys manhandling a double mattress just by the side of the freeway. We assumed it had blown off their pickup truck.
Got to the apartment at 3am. Poor Sue had assumed we'd just given up and got a hotel, then we woke her up just as she finally started sleeping.
Apartment lovely, and all worth it.
It was entertaining trying to find I-75 from the airport. Our satnav maps bore no relation to reality. After 10 minutes of it telling us to do U-turns on the freeway we finally returned to the airport and tried again.
We drove over all sorts of bridges including the Sunshine Skyway. It's a shame it was dark because the views must have been amazing. Here it is in daylight...
Most bizarre moment of the journey was when Mike slammed on the brakes because of a pair of guys manhandling a double mattress just by the side of the freeway. We assumed it had blown off their pickup truck.
Got to the apartment at 3am. Poor Sue had assumed we'd just given up and got a hotel, then we woke her up just as she finally started sleeping.
Apartment lovely, and all worth it.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Blogging from JFK
We're not supposed to be at JFK. We're supposed to be arriving at Tampa just now, having changed plane at Washington National.
Found out before we left the house that our 12.11pm flight to DC was running late, and that US Airways had already rebooked us onto a later DC-Tampa flight.
Got to the airport on time 10.30ish just in case, checked in, spent ages waiting for the US Airways agent to print our new boarding passes and relabel our luggage.
Waited near gate for hours and hours, kids doing really well considering, Mark making friends everywhere.
Plane showing no sign of leaving DC, let alone arriving in Portland ready to return to DC.
Eventually plane cancelled, surprise surprise. Spent another ages with US Airways agent trying to get booked onto a flight to Florida maybe via NY and Charlotte? Know there is a snowstorm on its way to Portland this evening so REALLY want to leave today.
Meanwhile I asked at the JetBlue desk next door what the price was for flights to Tampa. $1800, compared to our $650 with US Airways. But we can leave in less than an hour, and will be in Tampa tonight.
Book JetBlue flight on a UK credit card because we don't have enough in the bank to use debit, and we're on the flight to JFK.
Now we're in JFK, the weather out there is horrible but I think we should be able to take off this evening. It's kind of sleeting and very windy.
Kids have been great. Now have one watching film on portable DVD player, one playing with Barbie, and one off running round terminal with Mike.
I forgot how funky the JetBlue terminal is. The middle bit is very modern. Wireless internet everywhere, and all sorts of food, shops etc.
So now we're waiting for the 6.30pm boarding onto our Tampa flight, then we'll pick up our Sienna and drive the house to Anna Maria Island.
To think originally we were booked onto a 9am flight out of Portland, and would've been in Tampa three hours ago if all these changes hadn't been made.
Oh well.
Found out before we left the house that our 12.11pm flight to DC was running late, and that US Airways had already rebooked us onto a later DC-Tampa flight.
Got to the airport on time 10.30ish just in case, checked in, spent ages waiting for the US Airways agent to print our new boarding passes and relabel our luggage.
Waited near gate for hours and hours, kids doing really well considering, Mark making friends everywhere.
Plane showing no sign of leaving DC, let alone arriving in Portland ready to return to DC.
Eventually plane cancelled, surprise surprise. Spent another ages with US Airways agent trying to get booked onto a flight to Florida maybe via NY and Charlotte? Know there is a snowstorm on its way to Portland this evening so REALLY want to leave today.
Meanwhile I asked at the JetBlue desk next door what the price was for flights to Tampa. $1800, compared to our $650 with US Airways. But we can leave in less than an hour, and will be in Tampa tonight.
Book JetBlue flight on a UK credit card because we don't have enough in the bank to use debit, and we're on the flight to JFK.
Now we're in JFK, the weather out there is horrible but I think we should be able to take off this evening. It's kind of sleeting and very windy.
Kids have been great. Now have one watching film on portable DVD player, one playing with Barbie, and one off running round terminal with Mike.
I forgot how funky the JetBlue terminal is. The middle bit is very modern. Wireless internet everywhere, and all sorts of food, shops etc.
So now we're waiting for the 6.30pm boarding onto our Tampa flight, then we'll pick up our Sienna and drive the house to Anna Maria Island.
To think originally we were booked onto a 9am flight out of Portland, and would've been in Tampa three hours ago if all these changes hadn't been made.
Oh well.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Robinsons Woods
Robinsons Woods
Originally uploaded by jillian_werb
Sitting on a fallen tree today at Robinsons Woods...
BounceZone?
Thinking of going here tomorrow Portland Bounce Zone.
If I go really early maybe the children will be too tired to argue for the rest of the day.
Today was fantastic. We went for a hike at Robinson Woods in Cape Elizabeth. The snow was just shallow enough to be walkable on, and there were fallen-down trees everywhere for the kids to climb on. Shame about the dog poo everywhere, other than that it was perfect.
After lunch in the car - we're so classy - we went to look around Prout's Neck. We wanted to look round the Black Point Inn but it was closed, so we walked on Sand Dollar Beach in the (you won't believe this) sunshine.
Winter is the only time we'll ever actually be able to park anywhere on Prout's Neck, so it was nice to see it on a sunny day.
If I go really early maybe the children will be too tired to argue for the rest of the day.
Today was fantastic. We went for a hike at Robinson Woods in Cape Elizabeth. The snow was just shallow enough to be walkable on, and there were fallen-down trees everywhere for the kids to climb on. Shame about the dog poo everywhere, other than that it was perfect.
After lunch in the car - we're so classy - we went to look around Prout's Neck. We wanted to look round the Black Point Inn but it was closed, so we walked on Sand Dollar Beach in the (you won't believe this) sunshine.
Winter is the only time we'll ever actually be able to park anywhere on Prout's Neck, so it was nice to see it on a sunny day.
50 things to do in and out of Portland ME
I have itchy feet today, after my indoors day yesterday. Looking for things to do I found this list which is great...
http://www.alphamom.com/hotspots/2008/06/activities-with-kids-portland-maine.php
We've done a lot of them but there are lots more we'd like to try. Here it is (am I allowed to copy stuff into my blog?)
Portland, Maine: 50 Things to Do With Kids Before They Grow Up
By Amanda of SouleMama
Whether you've been here for a while, or you're just here for a little vacation time, I hope you'll find something on this list to keep you and your little ones happy and having fun in Portland, Maine!
1. Take a walk on Mackworth Island, where you'll need to stop in the magical village of fairy houses to build your own fairy abode!
2. Head to LL Bean – not just for the shopping, but also for the outdoor evening Summer Concert Series.
3. Make the journey (about 2 hours North of Portland) to the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association’s annual Common Ground Country Fair. Held the third weekend in September, the weekend has an old fashioned country feel with livestock, Maine farmers, and exhibits and demonstrations on sustainable living, organic farming, and Maine crafts. Don’t miss the special Children’s Area with plenty for your little ones to do!
4. About an hour west of Portland on the last weekend in September, you’ll find the Apple Acres Bluegrass Festival. Featuring local bluegrass music and a bbq, the event is held in the apple orchards. Perfect for dancing, and picking Maine apples at the height of apple season!
5. Check out the Old Port Festival, always held the first weekend in June. Be sure not to miss the larger than life, giant and beautiful puppets in the parade by Portland's Shoestring Theater.
6. Rent snowshoes and head out on a trail at Pineland Farms in New Gloucester.
7. For cold and rainy days (or hot and humid ones!), the Children’s Museum of Maine is always a great time for the little ones.
8. A trip to the Old Port is essential from time to time – stop by Treehouse Toys for the little ones, and Edith & Edna and Ferdinand for handmade loveliness. And wrap it all up with delicious organic, local gelato at Maple’s Organics.
9. Stop by Scratch Baking Co. in Willard Beach, South Portland for the yummiest bagels around town. Follow it up with a walk on Willard Beach and Fort Preble on the Southern Maine Community College campus. The lighthouse (Spring Point) is open for public tours on Saturdays in the summer months.
10. Take a trip back in time on the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad, where you’ll get a fabulous view of Portland’s waterfront.
11. Visit some Maine native animals in rehabilitation at the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray.
12. Catch a Portland Sea Dogs baseball game – the AA affiliate of the Boston Red Sox.
13. Go frog catching and bird watching at Capisic Pond.
14. Catch some mackerel off the end of the Maine State Pier on Commercial Street.
15. Walk the 4 mile Prout’s Neck Cliff Walk, beginning at Scarborough Beach State Park. The walk goes along the rocky coast, onto private beaches (with public access), and by historic waterfront homes.
16. Stop by Deering Oaks on a Saturday morning for a visit to the Farmer’s Market. Follow up with some play in the children’s wading pool.
17. Spend a day – any time of year – at Maine Audubon’s Gisland Farms in Falmouth. You’ll find a 65 acre sanctuary full of trails, an educational center and children’s discover room.
18. Take a half-day, day, or overnight sea kayak tour with Maine Island Kayak Company.
19. Canoe through the marsh, and discover the unique habitat at Maine Audubon’s Scarborough Marsh, in Scarborough. Both canoe and kayak rentals are available.
20. Visit the Yarmouth Clam Festival in Yarmouth, held in mid-July. Full of events, crafts, food and a fair atmosphere, the hour long parade on Friday night is not to be missed!
21. Charter a windjammer for a private 2-hour sail around the islands of Casco Bay.
22. Join the Mailboat on a ferry run at sunset as it goes about it’s business of delivering mail to Casco Bay’s island residents, while getting a scenic tour of the bay.
23. Gather some friends for an classic and scenic Lobster Bake on House Island.
24. In June, head to a Broadturn Farm in Scarborough for some pick your own strawberry love.
25. Take a hike at Bradbury Mountain State Park in Pownal. A beautiful spot for seeing the foliage in the fall, and hawk migration in the spring.
26. Head up an hour north of Portland to Sebago Lake State Park, where you’ll find a state park with great lake swimming, as well as Douglas Mountain – a great little hike for even the youngest of kids.
27. Catch some surf at Higgins Beach in Scarborough or Crescent Beach in Cape Elizabeth (beaches are right next to each other). Bring your boards, or kayaks for some wave action!
28. Head to Old Orchard Beach for an old-fashioned carousel, and fries on the pier.
29. Visit Fort Williams, in Cape Elizabeth. The best spot around for kite-flying, lighthouse viewing, and fort exploring (bring your flashlights!).
30. For some great family vaudeville, check out Phyzgig: A Festival of Physical Comedy, held each year at SPACE Gallery.
31. Visit the Victoria Mansion at Christmas, where you’ll find the preserved historic home decked out in lavish holiday décor. (Also a great visit any time of year!)
32. See the classical holiday ballet performance of the Nutcracker by Maine State Ballet.
33. Take the Casco Bay Lines Ferry to Peaks Island, where you can rent bikes to ride around and explore the island.
34. If your little ones need a break from the outlet shopping you’re doing in Freeport Village, swing by Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, where you’ll find nature trails, guided walks, and plenty of osprey!
35. Attend the annual tree lighting at Monument Square for some music, sleigh rides (don’t forget the blankets and hot cocoa!), and a sighting of Santa.
36. Visit the Portland Museum of Art, which features many works by Maine artists Andrew Wyeth and Winslow Homer. Free admission on Fridays from 5 to 9 pm.
37. Climb to the top of the Portland Observatory (built in 1807 to aid local ship owners) and get a full 360 degree view of Portland, the harbor, and the islands.
38. Do you have a skateboarder in your crowd? Head to the Windham Skate Park in Windham, where kids can rollerblade, skateboard, and scooter to their hearts content (all under the eye of its well-supervised staff).
39. Drive up to Damariscotta in the early summer months to catch the running of the alewives as they travel up river to freshwater to spawn. You’ll likely catch some osprey and bald eagles watching the action as well.
40. Spend some time at the Maine Rock Gym, an inside rock climbing facility. The gym is a great spot for climbers of all ages and provides instruction as well.
41. Visit Fort Popham in Phippsburg, for some great climbing and exploring. Pair it with a visit to nearby Popham Beach State Park, where you’ll likely see some seals in the harbor.
42. Eat lobsters on the rocks at Lobster Shack at Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth.
43. For the sweets-lovers in your family, Haven’s Candies offers tours of their chocolate factory each day in their Westbrook facility.
44. Catch a double feature at the drive-in movie theater at Prides Corner Drive-In in Westbrook.
45. Especially if your family includes a four-legged friend, take a stroll through the dog-friendly acreage in Robinson Woods in Cape Elizabeth, where you’ll find extensive trails through the woods and streams.
46. A great spot for the new little bikers in your family, Baxter Boulevard offers a 3 mile path along the Back Cove of Portland.
47. For the 4th of July, bring a picnic to hear the Portland Symphony Orchestra as they perform Independence Pops by the sea at Fort Williams in Cape Elizabeth.
48. Go sledding (or cross country skiing, or ice skating) at the Riverside Municipal Golf Course, where the trails and pond are groomed, and free to the public all winter.
49. Catch a starshow at the Southworth Planetarium on the USM campus.
50. Bring a picnic to Ferry Beach in Scarborough to watch a summer sunset.
We also love bowling at Pineland YMCA, ice skating on the pond at Yarmouth, sawimming at Crystal Lake in Gray or Outlet Pond in New Gloucester. We like hiking some of the Portland Trails especially the one by the Presumpscot River and there are some hiking trails in Cape Elizabeth I'd like to try. Hannah loves Coffin Pond in Brunswick, and I like the tea shop in Brunswick.
Would also like to try hiking Rattlesnake Mountain.
http://www.alphamom.com/hotspots/2008/06/activities-with-kids-portland-maine.php
We've done a lot of them but there are lots more we'd like to try. Here it is (am I allowed to copy stuff into my blog?)
Portland, Maine: 50 Things to Do With Kids Before They Grow Up
By Amanda of SouleMama
Whether you've been here for a while, or you're just here for a little vacation time, I hope you'll find something on this list to keep you and your little ones happy and having fun in Portland, Maine!
1. Take a walk on Mackworth Island, where you'll need to stop in the magical village of fairy houses to build your own fairy abode!
2. Head to LL Bean – not just for the shopping, but also for the outdoor evening Summer Concert Series.
3. Make the journey (about 2 hours North of Portland) to the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association’s annual Common Ground Country Fair. Held the third weekend in September, the weekend has an old fashioned country feel with livestock, Maine farmers, and exhibits and demonstrations on sustainable living, organic farming, and Maine crafts. Don’t miss the special Children’s Area with plenty for your little ones to do!
4. About an hour west of Portland on the last weekend in September, you’ll find the Apple Acres Bluegrass Festival. Featuring local bluegrass music and a bbq, the event is held in the apple orchards. Perfect for dancing, and picking Maine apples at the height of apple season!
5. Check out the Old Port Festival, always held the first weekend in June. Be sure not to miss the larger than life, giant and beautiful puppets in the parade by Portland's Shoestring Theater.
6. Rent snowshoes and head out on a trail at Pineland Farms in New Gloucester.
7. For cold and rainy days (or hot and humid ones!), the Children’s Museum of Maine is always a great time for the little ones.
8. A trip to the Old Port is essential from time to time – stop by Treehouse Toys for the little ones, and Edith & Edna and Ferdinand for handmade loveliness. And wrap it all up with delicious organic, local gelato at Maple’s Organics.
9. Stop by Scratch Baking Co. in Willard Beach, South Portland for the yummiest bagels around town. Follow it up with a walk on Willard Beach and Fort Preble on the Southern Maine Community College campus. The lighthouse (Spring Point) is open for public tours on Saturdays in the summer months.
10. Take a trip back in time on the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad, where you’ll get a fabulous view of Portland’s waterfront.
11. Visit some Maine native animals in rehabilitation at the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray.
12. Catch a Portland Sea Dogs baseball game – the AA affiliate of the Boston Red Sox.
13. Go frog catching and bird watching at Capisic Pond.
14. Catch some mackerel off the end of the Maine State Pier on Commercial Street.
15. Walk the 4 mile Prout’s Neck Cliff Walk, beginning at Scarborough Beach State Park. The walk goes along the rocky coast, onto private beaches (with public access), and by historic waterfront homes.
16. Stop by Deering Oaks on a Saturday morning for a visit to the Farmer’s Market. Follow up with some play in the children’s wading pool.
17. Spend a day – any time of year – at Maine Audubon’s Gisland Farms in Falmouth. You’ll find a 65 acre sanctuary full of trails, an educational center and children’s discover room.
18. Take a half-day, day, or overnight sea kayak tour with Maine Island Kayak Company.
19. Canoe through the marsh, and discover the unique habitat at Maine Audubon’s Scarborough Marsh, in Scarborough. Both canoe and kayak rentals are available.
20. Visit the Yarmouth Clam Festival in Yarmouth, held in mid-July. Full of events, crafts, food and a fair atmosphere, the hour long parade on Friday night is not to be missed!
21. Charter a windjammer for a private 2-hour sail around the islands of Casco Bay.
22. Join the Mailboat on a ferry run at sunset as it goes about it’s business of delivering mail to Casco Bay’s island residents, while getting a scenic tour of the bay.
23. Gather some friends for an classic and scenic Lobster Bake on House Island.
24. In June, head to a Broadturn Farm in Scarborough for some pick your own strawberry love.
25. Take a hike at Bradbury Mountain State Park in Pownal. A beautiful spot for seeing the foliage in the fall, and hawk migration in the spring.
26. Head up an hour north of Portland to Sebago Lake State Park, where you’ll find a state park with great lake swimming, as well as Douglas Mountain – a great little hike for even the youngest of kids.
27. Catch some surf at Higgins Beach in Scarborough or Crescent Beach in Cape Elizabeth (beaches are right next to each other). Bring your boards, or kayaks for some wave action!
28. Head to Old Orchard Beach for an old-fashioned carousel, and fries on the pier.
29. Visit Fort Williams, in Cape Elizabeth. The best spot around for kite-flying, lighthouse viewing, and fort exploring (bring your flashlights!).
30. For some great family vaudeville, check out Phyzgig: A Festival of Physical Comedy, held each year at SPACE Gallery.
31. Visit the Victoria Mansion at Christmas, where you’ll find the preserved historic home decked out in lavish holiday décor. (Also a great visit any time of year!)
32. See the classical holiday ballet performance of the Nutcracker by Maine State Ballet.
33. Take the Casco Bay Lines Ferry to Peaks Island, where you can rent bikes to ride around and explore the island.
34. If your little ones need a break from the outlet shopping you’re doing in Freeport Village, swing by Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, where you’ll find nature trails, guided walks, and plenty of osprey!
35. Attend the annual tree lighting at Monument Square for some music, sleigh rides (don’t forget the blankets and hot cocoa!), and a sighting of Santa.
36. Visit the Portland Museum of Art, which features many works by Maine artists Andrew Wyeth and Winslow Homer. Free admission on Fridays from 5 to 9 pm.
37. Climb to the top of the Portland Observatory (built in 1807 to aid local ship owners) and get a full 360 degree view of Portland, the harbor, and the islands.
38. Do you have a skateboarder in your crowd? Head to the Windham Skate Park in Windham, where kids can rollerblade, skateboard, and scooter to their hearts content (all under the eye of its well-supervised staff).
39. Drive up to Damariscotta in the early summer months to catch the running of the alewives as they travel up river to freshwater to spawn. You’ll likely catch some osprey and bald eagles watching the action as well.
40. Spend some time at the Maine Rock Gym, an inside rock climbing facility. The gym is a great spot for climbers of all ages and provides instruction as well.
41. Visit Fort Popham in Phippsburg, for some great climbing and exploring. Pair it with a visit to nearby Popham Beach State Park, where you’ll likely see some seals in the harbor.
42. Eat lobsters on the rocks at Lobster Shack at Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth.
43. For the sweets-lovers in your family, Haven’s Candies offers tours of their chocolate factory each day in their Westbrook facility.
44. Catch a double feature at the drive-in movie theater at Prides Corner Drive-In in Westbrook.
45. Especially if your family includes a four-legged friend, take a stroll through the dog-friendly acreage in Robinson Woods in Cape Elizabeth, where you’ll find extensive trails through the woods and streams.
46. A great spot for the new little bikers in your family, Baxter Boulevard offers a 3 mile path along the Back Cove of Portland.
47. For the 4th of July, bring a picnic to hear the Portland Symphony Orchestra as they perform Independence Pops by the sea at Fort Williams in Cape Elizabeth.
48. Go sledding (or cross country skiing, or ice skating) at the Riverside Municipal Golf Course, where the trails and pond are groomed, and free to the public all winter.
49. Catch a starshow at the Southworth Planetarium on the USM campus.
50. Bring a picnic to Ferry Beach in Scarborough to watch a summer sunset.
We also love bowling at Pineland YMCA, ice skating on the pond at Yarmouth, sawimming at Crystal Lake in Gray or Outlet Pond in New Gloucester. We like hiking some of the Portland Trails especially the one by the Presumpscot River and there are some hiking trails in Cape Elizabeth I'd like to try. Hannah loves Coffin Pond in Brunswick, and I like the tea shop in Brunswick.
Would also like to try hiking Rattlesnake Mountain.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Saturdays
The girls have swimming lessons, and if we're organised then both of us get to go to the gym while the girls swim. Today that worked, mainly because I actually got out of bed in time.
Then we seem to spend the rest of the day sorting things out, doing laundry, folding laundry, cleaning and being boring. Today we did all of that, plus we got out all of the children's summer clothes, and packed for Florida.
The average high temp for Florida the week we're away is predicted to be 20C compared to -1C here. So you can see why we're going away. Although the fact that the two main airlines that we use from Portland - US Airways and Colgan Air - have had major crashes recently is a bit perturbing.
We're actually flying US Airways down to Florida, and Delta back again. They've changed our itinerary so many times that the flights we're actually taking now bear almost no resemblance to the flights we originally booked. At least they seem to have got more convenient rather than less, but our changeover times at JFK and Reagan DC airports are down to just over an hour. Is that actually long enough? The airlines obviously think so, seeing as that's what they've given us.
The little ones have had a great time today. They went next door to see the Wallaces, then they played hopscotch and goodness knows what else outside in sub-zero temps, and now they are chasing each other around the house.
Ellie dressed herself and is wearing her sweater inside out and back to front, which is impressive.
Mike has gone out to run errands galore, with no children. He's not used to spending time doing stuff for himself without any children attached. I imagine right now he's going 'Wow! I can achieve SO MUCH without children attached!'
Oh and it's Valentine's day, so I'm going to find an online card for Mike now. I got Fererro Rocher, flowers and a card showing a stick lady stripping - chosen by Hannah which is a bit worrying...
Tonight we'll probably watch more Weeds. We're on series 2 and loving it. I had a very happy evening yesterday watching three episodes in a row, while drinking a Sex on the Beach and stuffing my face with blue corn chips. I'm easily pleased.
Yesterday was the first day of the school holidays, so I had three children and a short temper. I took all of them swimming at the Clarion Inn in South Portland, which is always fun. Mark managed to jump into the pool without me catching him which was a first for him. Ellie tried diving, which was more of a bellyflop, but she didn't complain.
Then we met Mike for lunch at Wholefoods. You'd think, with it being a recession, that Wholefoods would be struggling, but not at all. It was the most packed I've ever seen it. Hmm. Food was good though.
Then we seem to spend the rest of the day sorting things out, doing laundry, folding laundry, cleaning and being boring. Today we did all of that, plus we got out all of the children's summer clothes, and packed for Florida.
The average high temp for Florida the week we're away is predicted to be 20C compared to -1C here. So you can see why we're going away. Although the fact that the two main airlines that we use from Portland - US Airways and Colgan Air - have had major crashes recently is a bit perturbing.
We're actually flying US Airways down to Florida, and Delta back again. They've changed our itinerary so many times that the flights we're actually taking now bear almost no resemblance to the flights we originally booked. At least they seem to have got more convenient rather than less, but our changeover times at JFK and Reagan DC airports are down to just over an hour. Is that actually long enough? The airlines obviously think so, seeing as that's what they've given us.
The little ones have had a great time today. They went next door to see the Wallaces, then they played hopscotch and goodness knows what else outside in sub-zero temps, and now they are chasing each other around the house.
Ellie dressed herself and is wearing her sweater inside out and back to front, which is impressive.
Mike has gone out to run errands galore, with no children. He's not used to spending time doing stuff for himself without any children attached. I imagine right now he's going 'Wow! I can achieve SO MUCH without children attached!'
Oh and it's Valentine's day, so I'm going to find an online card for Mike now. I got Fererro Rocher, flowers and a card showing a stick lady stripping - chosen by Hannah which is a bit worrying...
Tonight we'll probably watch more Weeds. We're on series 2 and loving it. I had a very happy evening yesterday watching three episodes in a row, while drinking a Sex on the Beach and stuffing my face with blue corn chips. I'm easily pleased.
Yesterday was the first day of the school holidays, so I had three children and a short temper. I took all of them swimming at the Clarion Inn in South Portland, which is always fun. Mark managed to jump into the pool without me catching him which was a first for him. Ellie tried diving, which was more of a bellyflop, but she didn't complain.
Then we met Mike for lunch at Wholefoods. You'd think, with it being a recession, that Wholefoods would be struggling, but not at all. It was the most packed I've ever seen it. Hmm. Food was good though.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Reorganising childcare and watching snow fall off rooves
Changed our minds. We're not taking Mark out of his current co-op nursery. I've had a long chat to my wonderful neighbour, who is going to look after Mark on his two co-op nursery days (he only goes for 2.5 hours), and he can go and do longer days at the other nursery the remaining three days of the week.
We talked about what hours she'd look after them, what information she needed, how we'd cope with snowy days, etc. I feel really confident that the children will be very happy and well looked after.
We're lucky to have such great neighbours...
And now, having spent much of my day typing up information and searching out forms, I really must take Mark swimming.
(Later)
Did I mention it's warm? I mean, it's above freezing, and the sun keeps coming out. It's all very strange.
The funniest bit of it is that the snow is melting on everyone's roof. If you've got a big slab of snow on your roof, which most people have right now, there comes a stage where it gets enough downwards momentum to finally start moving. At that point it often all goes in one huge whommmmmmffffff.
It's always funny to drive by a house after that's happened. Usually you see a very pissed off looking bloke digging his way through the most enormous snow pile to his front door. There was a lot of that today.
And now I have to fax a consent form to someone to say 'Yes, find out all the details of my life and do what you will with them, I have nothing to hide.'
We talked about what hours she'd look after them, what information she needed, how we'd cope with snowy days, etc. I feel really confident that the children will be very happy and well looked after.
We're lucky to have such great neighbours...
And now, having spent much of my day typing up information and searching out forms, I really must take Mark swimming.
(Later)
Did I mention it's warm? I mean, it's above freezing, and the sun keeps coming out. It's all very strange.
The funniest bit of it is that the snow is melting on everyone's roof. If you've got a big slab of snow on your roof, which most people have right now, there comes a stage where it gets enough downwards momentum to finally start moving. At that point it often all goes in one huge whommmmmmffffff.
It's always funny to drive by a house after that's happened. Usually you see a very pissed off looking bloke digging his way through the most enormous snow pile to his front door. There was a lot of that today.
And now I have to fax a consent form to someone to say 'Yes, find out all the details of my life and do what you will with them, I have nothing to hide.'
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Organising childcare
Quite warm today - I think it was above freezing at one point. The thaw at the weekend, followed by our usual freezing temperatures, means ice everywhere. It's horrible. Let's have some more snow eh?
Mark had his co-op nursery today. I broke it to his teachers that he is likely to be leaving. They looked bereft, and I know how they feel. He is so happy there, but it will be really really difficult to keep him there. So it looks like Thursday will be his last day. And once he's lost his place he won't get it back, as there's a waiting list. Sob.
After nursery he had Owen and Darby round to play. They did quite well, although Owen and Mark were losing it by the end. Meanwhile Katie, Charlotte and I ate delicious brie from Rosemont Market. My excuse for finishing it is that it was too runny to wrap.
Went to look around a full-day nursery for Mark later. I'd looked at it already so really I just wanted to check exact prices, when he could start, how much it would cost for Ellie to do mornings there, etc. So now I need to write a cheque for $735 for the first month, plus $250 deposit, plus $80 for two days in Feb. At this rate I'll have to get a job or something.
Oh yes... I have one. Hur hur.
Speaking of which Shane got a call asking for his reference for me, and it was at that point he worked out we've known each other 21 years. As he said 'OMG OMG!'
So having sorted Mark's nursery place out, I called the YMCA for the third time in two days, to sort out Ellie's Y care at school. After protracted negotiations with the receptionist - who thought it was perfectly unreasonable of me to actually expect to talk to a human being rather than someone's voicemail which I swear is never checked - I managed to get Ellie signed up.
So I can now go to work on the 2nd March without having to call in favours from friends or leave my children on the settee with the remote control and sandwiches. Which is nice.
I hope they like childcare, because we're getting to the 'no going back' stage...
The girls had chorus after school, which they love, but it leaves them completely knackered. Hannah was in pieces by 7pm, sobbing at the slightest thing.
Ellie of course is still singing in bed (it's 8.30pm, so early for her). As Mike said today, she is a very unique individual. Last night she sang till about 10pm, and had to be moved to a downstairs bedroom, where she carried on yodelling well into the night.
Mark has worked out how to get out of bed, switch on his light, play with his toys, read his books, and pop downstairs to mummy and daddy. He thinks there's nothing wrong with doing all of this, little monkey.
Mark had his co-op nursery today. I broke it to his teachers that he is likely to be leaving. They looked bereft, and I know how they feel. He is so happy there, but it will be really really difficult to keep him there. So it looks like Thursday will be his last day. And once he's lost his place he won't get it back, as there's a waiting list. Sob.
After nursery he had Owen and Darby round to play. They did quite well, although Owen and Mark were losing it by the end. Meanwhile Katie, Charlotte and I ate delicious brie from Rosemont Market. My excuse for finishing it is that it was too runny to wrap.
Went to look around a full-day nursery for Mark later. I'd looked at it already so really I just wanted to check exact prices, when he could start, how much it would cost for Ellie to do mornings there, etc. So now I need to write a cheque for $735 for the first month, plus $250 deposit, plus $80 for two days in Feb. At this rate I'll have to get a job or something.
Oh yes... I have one. Hur hur.
Speaking of which Shane got a call asking for his reference for me, and it was at that point he worked out we've known each other 21 years. As he said 'OMG OMG!'
So having sorted Mark's nursery place out, I called the YMCA for the third time in two days, to sort out Ellie's Y care at school. After protracted negotiations with the receptionist - who thought it was perfectly unreasonable of me to actually expect to talk to a human being rather than someone's voicemail which I swear is never checked - I managed to get Ellie signed up.
So I can now go to work on the 2nd March without having to call in favours from friends or leave my children on the settee with the remote control and sandwiches. Which is nice.
I hope they like childcare, because we're getting to the 'no going back' stage...
The girls had chorus after school, which they love, but it leaves them completely knackered. Hannah was in pieces by 7pm, sobbing at the slightest thing.
Ellie of course is still singing in bed (it's 8.30pm, so early for her). As Mike said today, she is a very unique individual. Last night she sang till about 10pm, and had to be moved to a downstairs bedroom, where she carried on yodelling well into the night.
Mark has worked out how to get out of bed, switch on his light, play with his toys, read his books, and pop downstairs to mummy and daddy. He thinks there's nothing wrong with doing all of this, little monkey.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Kids messing in snow
Kids messing in snow
Originally uploaded by jillian_werb
Kids messing about in the snow at Skyline Farm on Sleigh Day.
More about us
I'm moving our diary over to blogger to see if it's any easier to update it.
So... er...
Well I'm Jill, married to Mike, I have Hannah 7, Ellie 5 and Mark 3.
Hannah is at school full time, Ellie part time and Mark is at nursery.
We live in Maine which is fabulous. Moved here from the UK June 2007 and bought our house November 2007.
Mike is a project manager for a hotel management and construction firm. I am just about to become a knowledge management consultant for Unum in Portland, having stayed home and freelanced for the last 8 years.
We like all the outdoors stuff here in Maine - snowshoeing and skiing in winter, swimming and playing outdoors in summer.
Our house is surrounded by woods and loveliness. Will try to add some photos next.
So... er...
Well I'm Jill, married to Mike, I have Hannah 7, Ellie 5 and Mark 3.
Hannah is at school full time, Ellie part time and Mark is at nursery.
We live in Maine which is fabulous. Moved here from the UK June 2007 and bought our house November 2007.
Mike is a project manager for a hotel management and construction firm. I am just about to become a knowledge management consultant for Unum in Portland, having stayed home and freelanced for the last 8 years.
We like all the outdoors stuff here in Maine - snowshoeing and skiing in winter, swimming and playing outdoors in summer.
Our house is surrounded by woods and loveliness. Will try to add some photos next.
Links to our old diaries
Here's our old diary...
http://www.werbles.co.uk/america_01-06-2009.html
Hannah's old diary
http://www.werbles.co.uk/baby_diary_hannah_01-08-2003.html
Ellie's old diary
http://www.werbles.co.uk/baby_diary_ellie_07-12-2005.html
Mark's old diary
http://www.werbles.co.uk/baby_diary_mark_04-06-2007.html
http://www.werbles.co.uk/america_01-06-2009.html
Hannah's old diary
http://www.werbles.co.uk/baby_diary_hannah_01-08-2003.html
Ellie's old diary
http://www.werbles.co.uk/baby_diary_ellie_07-12-2005.html
Mark's old diary
http://www.werbles.co.uk/baby_diary_mark_04-06-2007.html
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