Friday, March 31, 2017

Earn Your Keep


We all know that our parents walked 5 miles to school, even in the foulest weather, uphill, both ways and when they weren't in school, they were working in the coal mines or begging in the streets or something or other.

I'm pretty sure that I did those things too. I certainly remember having to wait until a certain time for shows to come on the tv, once a week, complete with commercials and everything. And that internet thing? Still a dark op buried in DARPA.

Today's children have it easy - on demand everything, numerous screens, a huge variety of activities and experiences. They eat well, have fun, have too many toys and lots of tech.  But are they learning responsibility, and, more importantly, when can they begin to make my life easier? 

Our guys are generally pretty self-sufficient (can get themselves food, water, even get dressed and brush their teeth), but now they've hit 7 and 4, we've started to introduce them to some more chores. Clearing their plates is great, now to actually get them into the dishwasher. The plates, not the kids. They seem to enjoy bringing the garbage bins in and out, although it's been a little tough explaining this only happens once a week. Putting their toys away? I've given up not stepping on LEGOs and instead have simply armoured myself (best slippers ever by the way). 

Here in Toronto, I 'm not worried about mowing our postage stamp lawn, but shovelling the driveway would really be something. What do you have your sprogets doing around the house? And what age do child labour laws no longer apply?

Friday, March 24, 2017

Quiet Time

It only happens once in a while, but sometimes the boys do enjoy a bit of quiet time.



Now to teach them to sleep in on Saturdays . . .

Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Adventure Close to Home

Some days it can be a bit of a production to get the family out the door. Thankfully, it's a quick trip to get to the Brickworks. Evergreen has done some great work re-naturalizing the former brick foundry and quarry. A little bit of nature, right in the heart of Toronto.

Every trip we see some more wildlife, from rabbits to turtles to hawks. And the odd hipster.


Head on out and explore the wilds just outside your front door.

Monday, March 20, 2017

Explore This Great Land

I've let Parks Canada tell you how great they are, but we have some first hand experience.


Last year we got to camp in Bruce Peninsula National Park and celebrate Christmas in Jasper National Park.






It took some convincing to get the whole family into the woods and into a tent, but they haven't stopped raving about it since. CantStopWontStop has even brought it up in the midst of the deep freeze. Plans have already been made for this summer.


If a tent is too much for you, there's usually some hard roof accommodation options.





Whether you are hiking, biking, skiing, sledding, or just plain relaxing these are some of my favourite spaces in the world.











But don't take my word for it. Parks Canada is making it easy this by giving away annual parks passes for free. Get out there!

#Canada150

Saturday, March 18, 2017

It's a birthday, time to celebrate!

This year marks a big one for Canada. It's the big 150. To celebrate, Parks Canada is offering free admission to National Park and Historic sites for the whole year. All you need to do is order your free pass online.

There are some wonderful places in this great land. Now's your chance to visit them. No excuses!


#Canada150



Thursday, March 9, 2017

Spring?

Seems winter isn't giving up this year. Time to make the best of it.


#snowballs