Ever just turned 2 yesterday, and she is finally self-sufficient enough to entertain herself for an hour or so, while I go into the kitchen (which is baby-gated) and make beaded jewelry, which I sell at craft fairs and the like. I really enjoy this, and have been so delighted to start creating unique pieces again! I hadn't fully realized until now just how much I'd really missed being able to make lovely things! When I first resumed this activity, I was a little concerned that she would feel neglected, but I find that it's all good, as long as Ever can see me, and talk to me over the gate.
Another outlet for me is taking long bike rides, towing Ever in her twin-size bike trailer. We live at the far east end of Queen St., where the lakeshore bike trail starts, and we ride all the way to the west end of the trail and back. I like to do this 2-3 times a week, and go either in the late afternoon, or evening.
It is awesome exercise, and I can have a good, long time, uninterrupted, just to think my own thoughts, and reconnect with myself! I also enjoy listening to music or books on CD, while riding my bike. So much fun! Ever likes to play with our iPod Touch while she rides along, or play her harmonica, or her kazoo. When she gets tired of riding, we take a break at one of the many parks along with lakeshore. It works out great for both of us!
It's been hard, because I don't really have any friends in my neighborhood, or whom I see with any frequency. I am really thankful to have these two relatively new pastimes to enjoy, so that I can continue to feel positive about living, and retain this good feeling as I interact with my little one. I know it makes a difference to her what kind of mood I am in, and it feels wonderful to be able to show her my best face as much of the time as possible. :-)
