All posts by Kirsetin

Best Winter Gear for Kids?

December 8, 2009activities for kids, shopping, weatherKirsetin

It’s cold here. Really cold.

When I grew up, in North Carolina & Virginia, we didn’t know cold like this. Sure, winter was colder than summer, but all that meant was we didn’t go to the beach every day. I’m not sure I even wore gloves.

But here, way up in the cold north–almost Canada for goodness sakes!–it’s different. I realized just this weekend that I’m still reacting to the cold like a girl from North Carolina. It makes me run into my kids’ closets, giving them layer after layer, afraid that without three pair of socks, their toes will freeze and fall off during sledding.

But my kids don’t fear the cold at all. They don’t know anything else. Winter, to them, means cold and snow days and sledding and skiing and hot chocolate with marshmallows. And kids who grow up here shouldn’t walk around looking like the Michelin man just because their mom is dreaming of warmer climates.

So I need cold-weather clothing advice.

Warmest boots?
Best socks?
Gloves?
Least bulky, warmest snowpants?
Coats?
Toasty socks?

Should I just go for LLBean, because after all, they’re located in Maine, their stuff must be warm? I don’t know…it seems like I bought their boots for my kids years ago and they all came home with cold, red toes. But maybe I didn’t buy the right kind. I need to embrace some new gear myself, so please, any and all comments are welcome. If you never commented before, but know what I need, please! Tell me!

We need your help so we can live like northerners, not southerners who somehow got stuck way up here.

Priorities

December 3, 2009friendship, lifeKirsetin

This week is one of those where I can’t seem to catch my breath. And yet, I don’t feel overcommitted. I just think it’s a phase of the ages and stages we’re in. Does this seem possible to anyone but me?

I have three boys, only one of whom is playing a sport right now, thank goodness. At any given time, however, all three of them might be playing something or other.

I have a husband who travels. Often.

I have my own stuff: writing, school volunteering and, oh yeah, those pesky tasks like doing laundry and feeding my kids.

In the midst of all this craziness, I frequently leave laundry unfolded to make time to catch up with friends. I’m so glad I do, because my troubles easily fade away when I enjoy a laugh with the girls.

So please excuse my wrinkle-clothed children, with long hair that’s been due for a trim for a week and a half now. I’ve been busy with their stuff, my stuff, and a few drinks with friends.

Cheers!