It happened to me recently. I was so worried and confused that I actually forked out nearly $20 for a two-pack of pregnancy testers… I actually didn’t *need* the “early type” because my period was a full week late. What the…?

A fair bit of Googling later and I discovered to my relief – and then surprise – that I am probably entering perimenopause….

Missed period is a symptom of menopause

My cycle – usually like clockwork – has been a bit odd lately. Much heavier than usual and things like that.

Other symptoms that you might notice, according to MayoClinic.com (as usual, a great place to get information):

• Mood swings (check)
• Menstrual irregularity (yep)
• Hot flashes and sleep problems (hmm….. maybe…)

And a raft of others.

Relieved as I am that I’m not pregnant  – and boy, oh boy, am I relieved – I’d be lying if I didn’t say the news that I’m entering perimenopause is  bittersweet.

On that note, let me recommend a great book: Fifty is the New Fifty by Susan Braun Levine – a heavy hitting journalist with a fresh, thoughtful, intelligent and dare I say, exciting perspective on women and aging.

Bittersweet or no, she’s right when she says aging can be a wonderful thing for women, bringing with it confidence, freedom and self-belief that can be elusive earlier in life.

The Ontario Government Lists these eligibility requirements for the Ontario Children’s Activity Tax Credit:

The Ontario tax credit covers activities that fall into two categories: fitness and non-fitness. Eligible activities must be supervised and suitable for children. The criteria for fitness activities is the same as for the federal Children’s Fitness Tax Credit.

Eligible non-fitness activities must fall under one of the following categories:

• Instruction in music, dramatic arts, dance and visual arts.
• Language instruction.
• Activities with a substantial focus on wilderness and the natural environment.
• Structured interaction among children where supervisors teach or help children develop interpersonal skills.
• Enrichment or tutoring in academic subjects.

You’ll find more information on the Ontario Government Website: sww.fin.gov.on.ca/en/credit/catc/index.html

Stars on Ice Present Kurt Browning, 2012 - Photo by Mike Okoniewski

Thur, May 3, Hamilton, ON, Copps Coliseum
Fri, May 4, Toronto, ON, Air Canada Centre
Sun, May 6, London, ON, John Labatt Centre

Tickets available through Ticketmaster.

Mother & daughter aprons

So sweet and smart, if you wear one, the cupcakes will practically bake themselves. The handmade aprons come in a variety of vintage-inspired prints and colors – full bib style or flirty half aprons. Gorgeous. Matching mom and me sets from $33 at Etsy.com/shop/Aprons2tie4

Rorys Story Cubes Actions

The game is comprised of nine well-made, six-sided dice with each face showing a different image. The player rolls all six dice and then tells a story using all of the pictures that turn up. In the game’s newer “Action” edition, the dice show things like characters kicking, digging or shouting, a ball bouncing, scissors cutting, an arrow indicating a U-turn, or a kid reaching for something – in short, lots of possibilities. There is no written text, so kids of any age can play with kids of any other age. Adults too, of course. If you love the idea, look for Rory’s Story Cubes in the original format, the new Action cubes and keep your eyes peeled for the new Voyages cubes, coming to North America later this year. Good, clean fun. Rory’s Story Cubes. $9.99 at Amazon.com

You're a Good Man Charlie Brown at Stratford Festival 2012

The musical is based, of course, on the beloved Peanuts comic strip penned by Charles Schulz. Festival Director Des McAnuff says the Children’s Plays series is important because “the best path to learning is through enthusiasm” and early exposure to age-appropriate theatre can help kids develop a life-long appreciation for the delights and discoveries of the live-stage. You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown opens at Stratford’s Avon Theatre May 30th, 2012 with multiple performances in months that follow.

Tickets available through the Stratford Festival Box office – visit StratfordFestival.ca

Here’s how to enter to win free tickets to see Mary Poppins in Toronto:

Visit Mirvish.com and scroll down to see the contest links.

Upload your best summer holiday photo and tell the good folks at Mirvish.com who you had your good times with by by finishing the sentence

“I HAD A JOLLY HOLIDAY WITH _____________”

The lucky winner gets two tickets to Mary Poppins on the evening of November 10, 2011
and select Mary Poppins show merchandise.

Contest closes Sept. 30, 2011