My oral obsession

I never used to give my teeth a second thought.

Oh sure, I've always been aware that they could be straighter, whiter...bigger even. (Yes, in a bizarre twist of fate, despite being a notorious big mouth, the actual physical size of my mouth is rather small.)

But back to my teeth.

I've been a little obsessed with my teeth ever since my last trip to the dentist. While pointing out the worst areas where tarter collects, she casually stated as fact something that has been haunting me day and night ever since.

I have a receding gum line.

It's true. But never fear DMD has a plan! Click on over to my Shooting For Hip column at Better Than A Playdate to read all about it...

Say hello to my little excuse

I don’t have to eat my vegetables anymore.

Before I had Graham I was justifiably proud of, and perhaps even a little smug about, my healthy eating habits. I loaded up on fresh vegetables and fruit, chomping away with gusto, all the while relishing not so much the taste, I now realize, as the sweet feeling of virtue that accompanied every bite.

Today my refrigerator boasts more fresh fruits and vegetables than ever and I rarely eat any of it: I figure I don’t have to because, as it turns out, watching Graham eat them (albeit not without his favorite accompaniment) gives me the same smugly virtuous high I once got from eating them myself.

Oh how I love my little excuse.

It’s a given that I took way better care of myself before I had Graham: if you’re a parent you probably don’t consider this an earth-shattering revelation.

But the upside to having less time to lavish on my personal appearance is that I also have an excuse to skip all the healthy habits that are a bit of a chore.

I mean, why do I need to work out when he runs circles around me at the park? I feel exhausted just watching him, so I’m sure that counts for something.

And who cares how long it’s been since my last medical check-up as long as he’s visiting the doctor and getting his regularly -scheduled clean bill of health?

The more I think about it, the more I realize there are a million and one virtuous habits from which I really deserve a break.

Graham’s crib sheets (yes crib sheets) are changed at least every 10 days or so: by my calculations that means his parents’ bed sheets can stay filthy for at least twice as long.

Graham’s teeth are brushed nightly. This is an ordeal that surely buys me a free pass from flossing my own.

Graham always has a sweater when he’s cold and appropriate footwear. I am therefore allowed to wear stilettos in rainstorms and cute sleeveless tops in sub-zero temperatures.

Graham’s clothes are always clean and fresh…so mine don’t have to be.

Once I get started on the excuses I could go on for hours, really.

Who knew parenthood could be so liberating?

**Seriously though - I've got a recipe for cookies that are virtuous AND yummy up over at Don Mills Diva Recipes and Reviews. Check it out - no excuses necessary!**