One of those Days

Today was one of those days where I found myself asking "is this really my life?". I wish I could say this is an infrequent question but lately I've been asking myself this question more and more. I've been fantasizing about quitting my job, selling our house, moving somewhere small (and cheap) and opening up a coffee shop (that would of course be thriving despite the depressed real estate market). I have moments where I feel like I'm doing something worthwhile but the truth is those moments are fewer and further between all the time. Maybe I'm just taking my grief that I've had no time for out on my career or maybe this lack of satisfaction is part of a professional woman and working mother's life? A couple weeks ago I had drinks with a friend and former colleague and we had this discussion. We're both in a bit of a place where work isn't satisfying like we'd hoped it would be. She sent me a note the other day saying she'd quit her job and took a new one that paid less but looked to be a lot more rewarding. I look forward to being inspired by how the change works for her. Right now I feel like I can't dig out. I feel like the Dad in parenthood that says his whole life is about responsibility. I feel guilty for feeling that way. I worry that my Dad spent half his life feeling this way. And that I contributed. Thankfully, tomorrow is another day.

And Baby it's Cold Outside

Beyond the staple of complaints about the cold weather this time year, is the re-emergence of the giant box full of one half of at least a dozen mitts, and scarves and tuques that don't match anything. The jumbled box of mismatched items is a reminder of just how disorganized I really am and how disinterested in organizing winter clothes I am, particularly when spring arrives. The front entry way, which is disorganized and too small at the best of times, becomes a mass of boots tossed off quickly, inside-out coats and general chaos. We find ourselves squeezing in as the door opens only a quarter of the way. And while I think that the level of chaos in our house may be unique to a family headed by two disorganized parents, I think that the box (or some form of it) exists in most households, no matter how organized. That's why I thought I would share an innovation introduced to me by my colleague - Cubbies. Just like kindergarten no matter how old your family is. Each member gets one and everything they need goes in it - mitts, coats, hats, boots, everything. And if something gets lost? Not sure. But I like the idea that everyone is responsible for themselves and on their own. Even Julia, who is the worst offender when it comes to stripping off winter attire and leaving it wherever suits her.* When (and if) I get around to implementing it, I'll let you know how it works.

* I know, I know, somewhere someone is saying that a child with no regard for things in their place is exactly what I deserve.

Julia Julerston

Election 2008

After two nights of watching political debates, and four weeks of reading almost everything on the election, I've come to a conclusion - there are three things that are desparately needed to improve this election:

1. more polls, that's right polls;
2. more sweater vests; and,
3. more one-liners

Never mind analysis of platforms, media organizations really need to devote more resources to polling. Six plus polling companies reporting each day just isn't enough for me to form an opinion on how to vote. I need to know how the intentions of voters change at least three times a day. Does breakfast make a difference to the appeal of Stephen Harper? Is the view of Canadians on Stephane Dion's leadership strengthened by a hungry man dinner? What about a cloudy afternoon - what does that do the prospects of a majority?

And platforms? They're for suckers I need more sweater vest visuals to really make a well-considered voting decision. I've seen Stephen and Stephane but can Jack and Gilles pull off the sweater vest? What about Elizabeth May? Isn't there a soy-based green sweater vest she could find? Policy is nothing - I really need to know who can rock the vest best. This is the stuff that really matters. And think about Canada's reputation oversees - if we aren't able to be at the forefront of fashion-past how are we to shine?

And last but not least, who is the king (or queen) of the zing? Either you don't care or your incompetent which is it? Where's your platform, under your sweater? Your approach is don't worry be happy. Just think how zingers could play out in federal-provincial negotiations. The entertainment factor of First Ministers' Meetings would go way up and what could be more important that a few good sound bytes?

You know what this election really needs? Beer. Oh wait, maybe that's me.