Urban Suburban Mommy

Tag Archives: Summer

Back-to-School: Bliss or bittersweet?

Posted on by Posted in The Struggle is Real, Urban Suburban Mommy .

Something happens around this time every summer. Summer camp wraps up, bathing suits are looking worse for wear, Halloween candy starts appearing in the grocery store and back-to-school shopping and lunch ideas overwhelm Pinterest and Instagram. Whether you’re a stay-at-home or a working mom, there’s no denying it, summer is coming to a close. Labour Day weekend will be the last hurrah, and then school routines will start up.

But is the start of school bliss? Or is it bittersweet?

Ah yes, the fond/painful memories of drop-offs and pick-ups, the struggle of coming up with lunch ideas the kids will eat – and the expensive lunchware to send it in. The school supplies, the long pants, the battle-cry of homework challengs and the indoor/outdoor shoes – is it all rushing back in one shot?

This is the first time in 16 years that I’ve spent a summer not working (aside from mat leave, which really doesn’t count – it’s a haze of new motherhood that I can barely remember). Most years I didn’t feel the summer/back-to-school shift as significantly as I do this year. My boys were always in daycare through the summer, so the routine didn’t change much and the hours didn’t change at all.

But this year is different. There are two types of moms in this world: The ones who are grateful for the return to school and the ones who are sad to see September come. I can’t decide which team I’m on.

It’s a serious “You know I love my children, but…” moment. So many moms feeling they survived another summer, glad to have made it to the first-day-of-school finish line. Truth is, it’s not easy to look after your own kids 24/7, having to decide the programming, the meals, the outings, the playdates, the structure and unstructure of two hot months of summer.

It really isn’t easy.

Kids like routine, and the freedom that summer brings is a bit overwhelming. Some weekends are more than I can handle, so doing it for weeks and months at a time?

Exhausting is a word that comes to mind.

And then there are the other mothers – those sad to see it end. Maybe their kids are easy, or maybe it’s that the dynamic works for those moms. They genuinely look forward to the two intense months of summer fundom. Maybe they’re better planners? Maybe they just groove more smoothly, roll with the punches more elegantly or are able to tune out the whine of a kid who has too many toys yet still can’t find anything to do.

Maybe it’s magic. Who knows.

I don’t mention this as yet another form of mom-shaming. Quite the opposite, actually. I mention it because the mom I aspire to be and the mom I am are not quite the same thing, and I’m okay with it. There’s nothing wrong with having survived a summer and happily sending your child off to school, and there’s nothing wrong with lamenting the end of family fundays either.

In this, my one summer of stay-at-home-momness, I enrolled my boys into 6 weeks of summer camp, however, I let them stay home two or three days a week. I let them sleep in and go late. I picked them up early. Some days we had fun and some days they had fun without me. It took the pressure off of having to plan and program, and added balance to my time with them – and their time with me!

Apparently it’s not easy on the kids to be with their parents 24/7 either.

So I lament a little. I have put off buying that second pair of “indoor” shoes, and won’t pull the backpacks and lunch boxes out of summer storage until Labour Day weekend. I’m hearing the rumblings of back-to-school, and as it approaches, I’m trying to figure out which team I’m on.

Plain as a potato salad

Posted on by Posted in Delicious Dishes .

Nothing brings back childhood memories of summer family picnics like a good ol’ bowl of potato salad. It’s not one of those dishes that gets made too often during the fall, winter and spring (unless prego cravings!) but come summer, it’s on everyone’s menu.

I’m lucky because my sister-in-law makes the best potato salad. In. The. World.

Seriously. I don’t know how she does it, but there’s no better. She’s got all of the big family barbecues and picnics covered. My husband makes a mean potato salad too, though I’m not super crazy about the celery in his.

Me, I like mine on the plain side. I don’t like eggs so I prefer when the potato salad isn’t eggy or have hard-boiled eggs creamed in there.

(Really, who does that?!?!?!)

Because I’m fussy that way, my potato salad ends up being a big hit with kids and vegans. It’s yummy, but plain. I’m always hearing “You should add…” followed with suggestions from fennel to smoked trout.

But it will never happen.

I think this plain as a potato salad will be a hit with the whole family, feel free to make it a bit more funky with your own tasty twist!

What you need:

-6 or 7 big potatoes
-2 cups Miracle Whip (or mayo)
-1/3 cup onion, very finely diced
-2 tablespoons vinegar
-pinch of sugar
-1.5 tablespoons mustard
– tablespoon salt
-pepper to taste

What you do:

Boil potatoes in salt water until soft. Drain and cool. Peel potatoes if you prefer skinless potato salad, I like to leave the skins on sometimes. Cube potatoes and set aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine all other ingredients and whisk together. You can taste it at this point and see if you want to add anything. Vinegar for more sour, or more sugar for sweet. Salt and pepper to taste.

Variations:

You can add a little bit of Dijon mustard, fennel, bacon bits, sweet relish, or even turmeric – which will give it a brilliant golden colour. You can add sliced radish, celery, beets or even corn. If you’re an egg fan or you really want to sneak the protein in, mash 3 hardboiled eggs and add into the mix.

Toss this dressing over the potatoes and coat well. This recipe is so forgiving, if you want to add more Miracle Whip/mayo it will be more creamy – or halve it to keep it dry.

Garnish it with a little sprinkle of paprika, some sliced green onions or a few sprigs of parsley.

Side dish. Easy, fast and full of summer.

 

A Tourist In My Own City: Parry Sound, Ontario

Posted on by Posted in Bon Voyage .

When I was asked to write about things that you can do with your child in the north, I got excited!  And strangely enough, researching things to do this summer (as I am working part time during the summer) was already on my list.

I am that person that has a list for pretty much everything. Having loose plans/places to go on the days I am not working is something that helps me plan. So, I pulled out the recent Fun in the Sun magazine, questioned some of my friends with children that are a few years older, and I started the 2016 summer to do list!

I was quickly able to compile a list of 10 things to do in the Parry Sound area (aka “up north”  or “cottage country” to many) for my son and me. Please note – these are in no particular order…they’re all appealing pending on the day, weather, finances, time of day, if we have company, etc.

1. GET OUTDOORS

I know that this is a tag line used by several businesses in Parry Sound and I think it’s a brilliant “line”. Sure, my list is based on summer activities, but we really are one of the nicest places to not only live, but play/spend time outdoors. Although most need no details, here they are:

Swimming

We have some of the most amazing lakes, and of course Georgian Bay. We have beautiful  sandy beaches, and many beaches that offer lifeguards and swimming lessons.

Fishing

As mentioned above that we have a lot of bodies of water, we also have a wide variety of opportunities for fishing. From land. A dock. A boat. A canoe. An island. Just fishing. My husband took Tyson out for his first boat ride where he caught his first fish last month.

TysonFirstFish

Boating

Continuing on with lakes and bays, get out on the water in a boat. Or canoe. Or kayak. Or sailboat. Sail Parry Sound is on the shore of Georgian Bay, and you can see it when walking on the Fitness Trail. Or whatever method of boat you can get your hands on. There are SO many bodies of water to explore and enjoy. And if you don’t own one, you can rent one!

Golf

For the older child (as our mini golf is no longer an option), there are several beautiful golf courses in the area. (Too many to list!)

Other outdoor fun  – Plane & ATV

Georgian Bay Airways and BearClaw Tours would be great for those who have an older child, and a bit more $ to spend when it comes to an activity. Both offer a unique “Northern” experience!

2. Playground

Although it seems basic, there are quite a few nice playgrounds for the kids. Of course many are close to some of the beaches that we are going to visit, and others that are at a school or municipal building that offer some great free outdoor time.

TysonandTitusNOBEL

3, Tower Hill, Museum and Gardens

The TOWER on Tower Hill has been a well known/visited spot in Parry Sound for years; it’s a tower that looks out over the town of Parry Sound. It also is the home to the Museum on Tower Hill, that showcase beautiful gardens. It’s a great place to take any visitor in Parry Sound to. The museum has great exhibits throughout the summer.

4. Farmer’s Markets

In addition to the market’s listed in the Fun in the Sun magazine, there are a few other regular Farmer’s Markets.

Tuesday’s – at the library

Friday’s – Rosseau

Carling – Saturday’s

McKellar – Saturday’s

5. Rainy Day Activities (or not rainy days….just wanted to group them together or my list would be more than 10!)

Bowling

Georgian Lanes offers several options, as well as birthday parties. It’s an affordable way to spend some time inside.

Library

The Town’s library has some great programs (that run all year long). There’s lots more than just going to read a book – there are crafts, reading tale sessions, learning sessions, reading club and a kids zone to name a few!

Skating

If up for the short drive, one could drive to the Humphrey Arena for some summer skating!

Bobby Orr Hall of Fame

Speaking of skating, our town is “on the map” due to Parry Sound hockey legend Bobby Orr.  I worked at the Hall of Fame for 10 years, and can attest that a rainy day in the summer is BUSY! (If you’re a hockey lover, you might want to visit on a super hot day where you can enjoy hours of games, artifacts and memorabilia of the greatest hockey player.)

6. Music

For those that follow my personal blog Mommy Loves Music you’ll know that music is a big part of my life.  And in Parry Sound, there’s usually some sort of musical event; be it a free outdoor concert series, music cruise on the Bay, a full fledge concert at the Stockey Centre or one of the weekly artist’s at The Brunswick. (And I couldn’t resist the plug for my friend’s putting on this show….Dolly Parton is coming to the PS area!)

7. Sports

Obviously I will include swimming and fishing again, but there are some other great options!

Baseball – there’s a great little league program.

Soccer – another great program.

Biking – so many great places to do so…especially the Fitness Trail, or the Rugged Trail. Or take note of the BOHF Triathlon (there’s a category for kids), or come and watch the Pedaling for Parkinson’s race. And there’s a great local bike shop (http://parrysoundbikes.com)!

8. Santa’s Village

This attraction is in Bracebridge (about an hour away from Parry Sound) and although I haven’t been there, I have heard nothing but great things from family and friends. We will attend this summer! (And if you register ahead of time, they’ll email you coupons and discounts so you can plan your visit and save a bit.)

9. Camping

I know that I have mentioned boating, fishing and swimming already, but these are an integral part of the camping experience. Although my camping days (both past and present) are limited, I do know how important the camping experience is. There’s really nothing better than pitching a tent, cooking over open fire (of course more than fish and hotdogs. ’Smores is mandatory at my campfires) and singing tunes.

10. Do nothing

Just breathe. Sit outside and smell that darn fresh air. Take a walk. Smell the flowers. Just chill out (ok, maybe bring a camera and book)…but honestly, life is so busy 95% of the time, I think that just taking time to do nothing is an essential part of enjoying summer in the Parry Sound area.

Obviously I have kept to the Parry Sound—Muskoka area for my 10 things to do. I hope that if you find time to come to the Parry Sound area, that one of these 10+ things to do will result in a great experience for you and your child!

Popsicles = Summer

Posted on by Posted in Delicious Dishes .

Popsicles are the best summer treat. Bright colours, sweet flavours, they’re the perfect cool-down for a kiddo on the go that doesn’t want to stop playing. And hey, they’re on a stick!

I have a few favourite recipes, but the great thing about popsicles is, as long as you have a mould, you can basically make any flavour you want. Of course, the standard orange, grape or lemon are always a hit, but you can get creative.

Pudding pops: Did you know you can freeze jello and pudding? Just prep it the way the package recommends and just freeze it in the moulds instead of in a bowl in the fridge.

Getting fancy: This takes some time because each layer has to freeze, but if you prep several juices, you can pour in a layer, let it freeze, pour in the next colour, let it freeze – and so on, and so on, until you’ve built up layers of colourful stripes. Or, if you tip the mould on a bit of an angle and fill it half way, you can let it freeze, straighten it up and fill the other half for a funky two-tone effect.

Fruit pops: Add a little bit of diced fruit to your pops. For thicker mixtures you can blend in the fruit, for thin liquids you may want to fill half, let freeze, add some fruit and top off with juice so that the fruit is suspended in the middle.

The basics: Any juice will freeze. You can make fresh squeezed or buy pre-made juices. Just fill the moulds and freeze. Milk will freeze – you can add some instant coffee and some sugar for a sweet adult treat, or some powdered chocolate for a chocolate popsicle.

My kids are crazy fans of piña coladas, and love this one the best:

What you need:

– 1 can of coconut milk or coconut cream
– 1 cup of pineapple, diced
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice (or 1/4 cup syrup if you’re using canned pineapples)
– 2-3 tablespoons white sugar (omit if using syrup from canned pineapples)
– tiny chunks of coconut, optional

What you do:

In a blender or food processor, whip together liquids and sugar for 1 minute. Then add fruit. Pulse blend 4 or 5 times. Pour mixture into moulds. Freeze and serve.

(The adult version of this can be made by adding 2 to 3 ounces of rum to the mixture!)

popsicle in cupcake linerPopsicle hack!!!

If you hate watching popsicles drip down your child’s arm, add a cupcake liner to the bottom of the popsicle to catch the drips!

Suggestions:

Cinnamon apple: 1 tsp cinnamon, 2 tablespoons white sugar, 4 cups of apple juice

Raspberry dream: 3 cups fresh raspberries, blended for 30 seconds, 2 tablespoons white sugar, 4 cups milk or light cream

Keylime pie: Keylime pie pudding prepared as directed on package

Mango tango: 4 cups mango juice blended with 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 talbespoons white sugar + mango chunks

And try out these moulds:

Urban Suburban Daddy’s 10 tips to get your backyard space ready for entertaining

Posted on by Posted in DIY, Urban Suburban Daddy .

You can just smell summer in the air, and before you know – it’s here. It’s practically the end of May, it’s time to get your backyard/entertaining spaces ready.  Our Suburban Daddy has some great tips:

1. Power Wash

The snow and/or rain probably left some mud and dirt in your garden.  It’s time to freshen up your space by cleaning it up first with a little power washing.  It makes such a difference and can be done pretty quickly with a power washer like the one I have (I bought a Simoniz).  In addition to washing your deck and/or patio stones, give your outdoor table and chairs and good washing too.

2. Clean your barbecue and make sure it’s filled with propane

There are a few mid- to high-end brands out there. Weber is my go-to Weber Genesis S330

There are a few mid- to high-end brands out there. Weber is my go-to for grilling Weber Genesis S330

Now that your sleeves are all ready rolled up, make sure to give your bbq a good scrub. Remove the grills and scrub them down with a good sponge, soap and water.  You can use a scraper for any stuck-on guck. Once your barbecue is shining again, make sure to fill your propane tank.  Nothing is more embarrassing than firing up the grill for guests – only to find your tank is empty.

3. Wall planters brigthen your backyard with colour

Buy wall planters with annuals that are perfect for your outdoor space – check out whether it is shaded, partial sun or full sun, and buy accordingly. If you go to your local nursery, they will advise you on the best plants or flowers for your space. You can purchase flower boxes made of different materials such as plastic, resin or cedar that you can reuse every year.  Plant new arrangements of flowers. If you want to get handy about it and also save a bit of cash, you can build your own planters.

4. Reconfigure your patio furniture

Change up the way you place your patio furniture. Switch it up every year.  If you are going to buy new furniture, invest in pieces that can play double duty. You want both conversation areas as well as eating areas. Buy a sofa/chair and ottoman that could also be used as a table for outdoor eating. Get the comfy stuff, something you can really settle into after taking care of the yard work.

5. Light up the sky with solar power

We just bought two sets of 4 solar powered outdoor lights that we attached to the posts of our fence. They were about $30.00 from Costo per pack.  They are beautiful and are cost effective since they’re powered by the sun. They add ambience to our outdoor space.

6. Frame your space with an outdoor carpet

Outdoor carpets are available in so many different colours and patterns. You can place your patio furniture on the corners of your carpet to frame your space. The carpet will also add an element of coziness to your backyard.

7. Shoo those bugs away with citronella

Discovered this local artisan - Going Au Naturel - and her products are incredible. This citronella candle is exactly what a backyard get-together needs

Discovered this local artisan at a market – Au Naturel – the products are incredible. This citronella ecosoya Bug Be Gone candle is exactly what any backyard get-together needs

Use long Citronella candles or torches that you can bury in your grass to shoo those mosquitos away.  Or you can buy table top citronella candles that you can place on your outdoor table.

8. Build a firepit

If your space allows, build a fire pit or buy a contained fire pit or chiminea available at the local big box store. The fire pit will provide warmth and style at the same time.

9. Decorate

Choose a colour palette and theme.  What feeling are your trying to evoke? We are big fans of a peaceful space so our backyard yard is decorated with a big Buddha head and lanterns.

10. Your summer playlist

I’m a DJ – and while you may not have your own resident DJ, you can definitely set up your mixes and beats. Maybe it’s house music, maybe it’s classic rock or modern pop, invest in whatever moves you.

JBL.png

Assemble your summer playlist.  Invest in bluetooth wireless speakers like the JBL’s and play music from your phone or iPod.

Now pour yourself a cold one, sit back and relax.