HAPPY NEW YEAR

CHRISTMAS WISHES

MERRY CHRISTMAS, HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU AND YOURS. SEE Y'ALL IN 2010!

Christmas

Hi out there!  Is it Christmas yet?  I celebrated an early Christmas in Guelph last Saturday with my kids and grandkids.  It was great!  The day started early and everything went as planned .... almost.  Sweet Lou had a pre-stuffed frozen turkey (about 15lbs.) and when she took it out of the freezer, she realized that the roasting pan she had was .....TOO SMALL!!!! eeeeek!  The problem got solved, but not without a bit of angst, and golly gee, what is a Christmas celebration without some Oh Noooo, AAAAAGH, this can't be happening ? Everyone arrived at the appointed time and we ate, drank, laughed, opened presents, had many laughs, hugs and kisses....Heaven on Earth to me! 
My dearest wish, as I have said before, is that everyone gets to have a Blessed, Safe, Happy Christmas, wherever you are.  As Tiny Tim said " God bless us, every one." 
Now I'm off to watch A Christmas Story. Hee heee...."You'll shoot your eye out".  It reminds me of my childhood and I always get a laugh out loud when the dog takes the turkey!

If I Were Santa

If I were Santa I would give all my family and friends good health, loving families and friends, warm hugs, hot cocoa with a hu-u-u-ge candy cane and time to enjoy all the gifts I would bring,  I wish that everyone in the world could have those gifts.  In the real world I'm not Santa, but that doesn't stop me from sending to the world at large a virtual hug and a wish that everyone could experience love throughout the coming year and beyond.  
Soooo, You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, I'm telling you why, Santa Mar is coming to town!
Here's something fun http://www.sundog.net/carolofthechins/flash/card.swf
Just click on the line above, then type in a Christmas Song and the "kids" will try to sing a few lines of it. ;o)

It's Coming!

"Christmas is acoming and the goose is getting fat,
Please to put a penny in the old man's hat.
If ye 'aven't got a penny,
An 'apenny will do.
If ye 'aven't got an 'apenny,
Then God Bless You!"
An old singsong rhyme that my Maw (grandmother) used to say/sing to me at Christmas time..  Hope everyone is taking all the excitement in stride.  Remember the reason for the season.  God Bless and Pray for Peace on Earth..

Invitation from Jackie/Teacher's Pet

<---me being upset about not getting to read your blog.

Hi Jackie.   I wanted to read your blog, but for some reason, (maybe I'm not typing in the right password or name) I can't get past the blog guardian. Could you invite me again through my google account email?

'Tis the Season To Be Jolly

Another week has flown by!  Life gets busier at this time of the year doesn't it. I'm getting some of the Christmas wrapping done, while enjoying the smell of the bread I'm baking and the sound of Christmas music.  I am thankful that I can take part in family celebrations.  The 'reason for the season', the birth of Christ, is uppermost in my mind and the hymns on the CDs are beautiful.
 I've been away from the house quite a bit this week and it shows.  Yesterday was to be another day of getting things back to neat and clean.  Did. Not. Happen!  Only the laundry got done and done and done!  Ya know when things are going downhill when you walk into a room and you suddenly get WET FEET!  The carpet (fortunately synthetic fibre) in the basement Family Room was soaking wet.  I can't figure out how or why and it probably was sitting there for at least 3 days.  The only thing that was water related was the dehumidifier sitting on the rug.  Did I put the water container in the wrong way and the moisture went onto the carpet?  Gaaaah!  I managed to roll up the area rug, up-end it into a dishpan and slide it into the laundry room, where I placed it rolled up on one end over the floor drain.  Fortunately I have a lot of large bath towels and they did their job of soaking up the water on the laminate floor. The rug is drying out nicely and the  floor shows only a little damage, a few little 'bumps'.  The dehumidifier is going at full blast (by the way, here's a hint to get the maximum moisture out of the air--put an oscillating desk fan at the back of the dh where the coils are.  It prevents them from icing up too much).  The upside is that my legs got a good workout from going up and down stairs to do the extra towel laundry.
I know that people experience much worse water/flooding problems, but it seems to be my "Water, water, water, everywhere" year.  Those who read my Noah's Ark post will understand.  Perhaps God is telling me that my thoughts of putting the house up for sale in the new year is the right one.  This is a big house for one person to manage and this year I have had to hire help to take care of the outside work as I haven't the stamina to tackle it.  Oh, that does sound like a 'poor me'.  Then again, I am 70 and shouldn't expect to be able to haul and dig like I did many years ago.
So, to all my friends (and you too my Little Lulu) take it slow, take a deep breath, take time to smile, take time  for  yourself (a huge bubble bath, perhaps), and take heart.  You will make it through.  XOXO <3 Mar
P.S.  After posting this, I  learned that a Village Friend, Diana, has had a death in her family.  Her dear Mom passed on Friday.  A great loss to her and her family.  Please say a prayer for her and her loved ones today.

Oh, Christmas Shopping, Wrapping, Decorating...

Has everyone started their Christmas shopping and decorating?  All the stores are in full regalia and looking for the big push to buy gifts for Christmas.  I have some decorations put up and have sorted the stash I keep piling up in the linen closet.  So, put that together with finally sorting out the craft room, and I'm feeling quite virtuous.  Still a little shopping left, but that will be done this week.
I hope all my friends and family will get on the fun side of the season. There are pressures, to be sure, for everyone to have the 'perfect Christmas', but let's take a breath, put on a smile, and think of the Love we received on the birth of Christ at Christmas, not the $$$$.

Domestic Queen

Je suis tres domestique!  (pardon my cereal box French) In other words I'm working the Domestic Queen thing today.  I have made bread, put beef stew in the crockpot, and cleaned, at least some. of the house.
Also, some Christmas decorations have found their way to their appropriate places.  Next, to sort out the gift stash I have in the linen closet.  I buy things all year with a person in mind.  Sometimes, though, I forget what is in the stash.
 For several years, my youngest daughter has had Christmas at her home for the family early in December, that way everyone gets have two Christmas Days.  This year it's in Guelph at #2 daughter's new home,on the 19th. So, I must have everything wrapped and ready to take there. First Christmas in her house and we're all  looking forward to it!

Aaaaaggggh! Clean up, Clean up, everybody Clean Up!

Well, it's more like I can do it.  This weekend will be the dreaded Clean the Whole House thing.  The clutter is begining to take over, and if I want to decorate for Christmas, some cleaning must be done.
So, early to bed, early to rise and get cleaning!!!!

More Good News

MY MOM

My Mom has been admitted to a very good and secure Retirement Home.  It is close to my brother and sister (who are living in the home they shared with her), so they can visit Mom and help with the transition.  Mom has been in hospital, due to a hip fracture and at her age (93), and her condition of osteoarthrites and osteoporosis, there was no therapy that could bring about alleiviation of anything but the pain she experiences.  Now when she has visitors they can enjoy her company in an area where it's comfortable to visit.  Mom may take some time to realize that this is now her home.  I hope she will see how much better her life will be with people who are capable to take care of her specials needs, stimulate her mind, get her out in the fresh air.  She will also have people of her era to talk and remenisce with.  I'm going to see her as soon as possible.  This has taken soooo long to come around,  She should have been in special care four years ago, but circumstances worked against that.  So, thank God that everything finally came together for her good.

Good News

I am finally getting back to posting.  Hello out there, did ya miss me?  I felt like I had no good news to pass along.  Today things are looking up.  For instance we finally heard that my 93 year old Mom, can be placed in a proper full care facility instead of being in hospital.  She really enjoys being around people and her poor health had kept her in a sort of solitary confinement in her home.  My baby brother has taken good care of her for more than 20 years, but it was getting too much for him and he finally admitted that. As in most families there are, and will be, problems when it comes to agreeing about the care of elderly parents (Daddy died in 1984 ),but those of us who are the most involved have agreed that full care in the right facility will enhance her last years. Another piece of good news is that my youngest sis has moved back to where she grew up, namely the house where my brother was taking care of Mom. She has lived in New Brunswick for about 30 years so she will miss that place for awhile.  Her sons are in Ontario now so that was part of the incentive, as well as being closer to her Mom and her siblings.  We are soooo happy to have her live close to all of us again.  Mom especially loves to see her every day.
So, once again, I am reminded that all things work for good.  Take care of your loved ones and take the time to say "I Love You".  As the Stevie Wonder song  says "I just called to say I love you, and I mean it from the bottom of my heart".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IHu8RSSCvE

I Didn't Mean to Do It!

Hi everyone.  I didn't mean to leave so much time between posts.  I've been spending time with my friend and her children, travelling to Toronto to visit my Mom, welcomeing my baby sis back to Ontario (she has lived in New Brunswick for about 30 years) and visiting with my kiddos.
My house is in dire need of some TLC and so, tomorrow, I will get to be a Domestic Godess. Well, at least domestic.  Right now I'm waiting for the breadmaker to cook up a loaf of whole wheat bread....it smells deeeelishious!
I'm working (3rd incarnation of the yarn) on a sweater right now and it's coming along nicely.
Well, that's all the boring news fit to print.  Hope all my friends are doing well and forgive me for not keeping up with y'all.  <3 Mar.

Changing Seasons

I haven't posted for awhile, due to concerns about family and friends.  Things are settling down now, and I wanted to talk about something else.
Hey, it's Autumn here in the Great White North!   Nature is getting ready for Winter, but before going to sleep,  she dons her best ball gown in majestic reds and golds.  I never tire of the changing seasons for they make us stop and think about what's ahead and what's behind.  I enjoyed my summer, I'm enjoying the crisp Fall weather and now, I'm looking forward to Winter. 
I think our predecessors had the right idea about Winter.  All the hard work of planting, harvesting, putting up for the winter is over when the first snow flies.  They got out into the cold, had skating parties, hoedowns,  sleigh rides,  get togethers and enjoyed the fruits of their labours.
I'm finding it hard to get motivated though, to do the last of the "putting down the garden".  The grass is still a lovely shade of green, there are still some late blooming flowers and the deck looks inviting still, with the lawn furniture there waiting for me to sit down.  I suppose I will have to put all the furniture away soon.  I'm just a little lazy today; although I did make bread and two pots of turkey soup today.  I think tomorrow will be a good day to really put the Summer behind me and  embrace Autumn.  We shall see......;o)

Here's a Low-cal Sweet Treat

Hi: Here's a sweet picture for y'all to smile at.
I'm not up to much today, but thought I'd let my 'Village' friends know that I'm alive and kicking (not high kicks so much as kick the can type ).
I've been away from home and staying over at my Heartfamily's home while dad was away in Vancouver on business- to do with the Olympics coming next year.  Things are still a little sketchy for mom, but the children are okay.  I'll be back to their home during the day again next week.  This may go on for another couple of weeks, until mom gets more confidence in herself and her abilities to be the mom she wants to be.
My mom is still in hospital in Toronto, awaiting a place in a full care facility.  I haven't been able to visit her this last week due to the above commitment.  I'm planning to visit her this coming weekend.  Sadly, she will be having her 93rd birthday in hospital.  Not ideal, but she is getting the care she needs and we could not provide while she was at home.  My sister, brother and I will make the birthday celebration the we can  for her.  I bought one of those musical birthday cards that can also hold a personal message, so that could give her a smile, I hope.   As for a cake, I will  get some really pretty cupcakes at the bakery which would be easier to take into the hospital and to distribute to the Birthday Merry Makers.  Sis has a birthday two days before Mom, so we'll  sing Happy Birthday to her too.
So, that's all the news that's fit to print from up here in The Great White North. Hope everyone has a great week.  Muuuwaaaaah!  (that's a great big Dinah Shore goodbye kiss!)

Gotta Keep Those Feets Movin'

Yep, I've been moving those pretty little feets alright!  This past week I've been dividing my time between two houses; my daughter's and my heart family.  It's a great feeling to be needed and I was this past week! My daughter was away on a much needed vacation, so I got to spend time with my 13 year old granddaughter.  She is such a sweet girl.  We went to the Mall on Sunday and bought her some new clothes for school.  We laughed, talked and shopped--my idea of good times.  Reminded me of when I would shop with my girls when they were in their teen years.
My heart family's Mom is on the mend and home for the weekend. She will probably come home to stay by next Tuesday.  I will be getting the kiddos off to school on my own on Monday and the rest of the week we'll work together to take care of the children and the house.  So, I guess I'll be busy next week too.  That's fine with me.  I don't like having too much time on my hands.  So long for now.
Oh, words for the day:  Whatever task you think you should do....do it as soon as possible.  Because if you leave it for later (read procrastinate) as sure as the sun rises, you will not have the time to do it later and you will regret it.

I'm Still Here

Hi to all my friends.  I have been away from my computer  and my house for awhile and will return home by Sunday.  I'm using my daughter's  PC right now.

I've been dividing my time between my Mom (who's in hospital--soon to be in a full care facility), my grandaughter (who's Mom is on vacation), my 'other' family ( who's Mom is ill again--but on the mend).  More details when my life gets back to normal--whatever that is!

Hope y'all are enjoying this super great September weather.   Take care and stay healthy. <3

Busy Days

Hi Folks: Wow!  Did the summer holidays go by fast!  I hope everyone that acknowledges Labour Day had a great long weekend.  The weather up here in the Great White North has been perfect for getting outdoors and enjoying all that Nature provides.

I have been busy these last weeks.  My Mom has been in hospital, due to a fall that fractured her osteoporitic hip, the Mom of the family that I help take of has not fully recovered and still needs my help, my house and garden need some looking after and on and on.  I think those of you with children still in school have been busy as well.  It's good to be busy, especially with the people you care about.  I'm trying to keep up with everything, but my posting has suffered.  My posting should pick up now that I've got a few things done. 
Now, off to bed and look forward to another great day.

I'M BAAAAAACK!

Some pictures of my family at the Beach. I had a great time. Lots of sun, sand, good eats and even a little wine. The little gazebo you see beside two of my girls (daughter and daughter-in-law) was my station when I sat on the beach. I'm not one to sit and bake in the sun, although I enjoy the ambience of it all. By the way, those two girls are always making me laugh at their antics. Some of the things they've got up to since they met, you wouldn't believe!

It's taken me a few weeks to get back into the ol' routine. It's been a busy time and although I wanted to start posting, my brain wasn't co-operating. I'm still processing some of the events concerning two of my friends.
My 'adopted' family is still going through some difficult times, but Mom is back home and we all want her to get better. I was there at their home again, helping to take care of the children and the house this past week. My dearest wish is that soon the family will be whole and they won't need me as much. I will still be involved, as a surrogate G'ma, and that will be fine for me.

The friend that got ill while we were in Virginia is now back home and has 9 hours a day of home care set up, courtesy of our mutual friend. Mutual friend has worked very hard and taken time away from her family and other obligations to help her, as have I. I'm in a dilemma with the friend who is ill, because of her attitude and actions regarding her recuperation. It's been almost 4 months and I am, truthfully, drained by the demands she puts on our friendship. I've pulled away a bit so that I can get some perspective on the situation. I'm sure it will get resolved with time, patience and prayer.
Bye for now, keep well. <3

I'm Still Here

Just a short post to let my friends know I'm ok and keeping my head above water. I've been occupied and preoccupied for the last few weeks. I have some catching up to do reading all my friends' posts and I will be back up to speed by the weekend. Hope everyone is well and happy. Watch for an update this weekend, folks! <3 XO

Family

I'm baaaack! But not to stay; I'm off to my daughter and son-in-law's cottage on Georgian Bay tomorrow.
I haven't kept the blog up to date as I have been very busy taking care of my other family.
A bit of history: A little more than 5 years ago I connected with a family with a 3 month old baby girl who's mom was having postpartum difficulties, compounded with a blood disorder that left her unable to cope with her new baby and her 8 year old son. They needed a Nanny/Housekeeper. That was right up my alley, as they say. I was at loose ends, having recently retired and missing my busy life. Well, a proposed six month position became 4 years and we became 'family' to each other. For the last year or so we've visited and I've "babysat" the kids. Last Saturday, mom became ill again and had to be hospitalized. She will likely be there for at least another 6 weeks. Well, Marlene to the rescue and so, I've been putting in 10 hour days taking care of the children, catching up on the household chores, etc. It's actually been quite a lot of fun for me. I'll be going back there in 2 weeks, as in the meantime Dad and the kids have a trip out west to Calgary for 2 weeks that's been planned for a year. Even though Mom can't go she wants them to see their Grandmothers, Aunts, Uncles and cousins while she recovers in hospital.
Tomorrow I will be leaving for the beach, sun and sand and so I will not be posting for a week. So, I wish all my friends a great week, with lots of love and fun along with sunshine and lollipops!
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My thoughts on the past week: Place a great value on your health, physical and mental. Do everything you need to do to keep healthy. Good health is priceless. It's a gift you give to yourself and those who love you. <3 <3 <3

Taking a Break

MY MOM waving to all my friends in Blog World.


I'm taking a break from posting as I will be visiting with my Mom over the weekend. Looking forward to having a good time with her. Catch up with y'all when I get back. Cheerio!

The SUN, Boss, the SUN!!!!!!!

Does anyone remember Fantasy Island with Ricardo Montalban? In my head I am saying ...Faahntassseee Eyelaaandd; and RRRReecarrrdo Montaaalbaaahn. His aide de camp was a little fellow (no disrespect) named Herve Villechaize and he would always say "the plane, boss, the plane!" He was always soooo happy to see that plane! Well I am soooo happy to have seen the sun . The sun shone the WHOLE DAY!!!!! I could hardly believe it, as hour after hour, the rain STAYED AWAY!!!!!
I got so much done. Mainly my friend Sheldon (he's the 16 year old son of my friend Tammy) got a lot done with regard to the unwanted inground pool that was developing in one area of the garden. After he dug a hole and put 3 bags of sand and 3 bags of stones, then put mulch over it it looks like the pool will have to say Adios, Sayonara, Au revoir, Cheerio, So long and Gooooooodbye! After he left I did some more gardening and got to be a 'dirty girl' in the best sense of the word! I am tired, but happy and perhaps if the sun deigns to shine tomorrow I could consider sitting on the deck and admiring the results of all the hard work we did. Aaaaand I will take pictures for your edification and delectation. Good night and Sweet Dreams to all my kind, generous, funny blog friends. <3 <3<3 (those are little Love hearts)

Looking for Noah and His Ark!

This is my second post today, something I don't usually do. Explanation follows.
This morning and into the early afternoon it was a perfect day to be outside in the garden. (See my previous post) I got a lot done in about 2 hours, which is my limit to do physical work. So, then I thought I'd reward myself by having lunch on the deck and admire my handiwork. About an hour into the eating and admiration, the skies clouded over and a little sprinkle of rain starts. "Oh well" I thought, "into every life a little rain must fall and you've at least sat outside for awhile."
Did I day a "little" rain. Oh my goodness! It turned into a thunderstorm and the rain was coming down so hard I couldn't see outside my windows. After about 1/2 hour of this, something told me to put on my boots and go check the area under my living room window. I'm so glad I did, as the rain was starting to pool and it wasn't running off. Now this wouldn't be too much of a problem, except that it was getting dangerously close to the vent for fireplace in the basement family room.
I should explain. The fireplace has a vent behind the fireplace doors, in front of the place where one would burn wood. This is to pull in fresh air to keep the fire going. Of course there is a proper chimney for the smoke and some of the gases to escape. The aforesaid vent is somewhat like the dryer vent you would have in your house. It goes to the outside wall and is covered by some metal mesh and a little hood. It should have been put higher on the outside wall, but as I am not the one who had it done, c'est la vie. (I'm the third owner) I could see that all this rain water was going to go down the vent opening and then into the fireplace and make all the bricks damp and perhaps even cause water damage to the floors and walls. I think that has happened before but not to a great extent, as in past years the hearth would feel a little damp which I put down to it being a basement which sometimes gets humid.
Well, I got the spade out of the shed and started to dig a trench to drain the water.
By this time I was sinking into the mud and of course soaked even with rain gear on. I kept digging and finally the rain let up, and the trench did its job of draining the water away from the vent. While doing this and thinking how to remedy this on a permanent basis, I had an inkling of how terrible it must have been for our soldiers in the First and Second World Wars to be digging trenches in the rain and losing their horses, equipment and most horrible of all, their friends to the sucking mud. Also I have so much more empathy for people who are in extreme conditions of flooding and must fight for their lives and their homes. My boots were sometimes stuck and it was difficult to move, but I could extricate them after only a little effort. I did not let myself, after getting that epiphany, even think for one second that I was being hard done by. Rather, I was thankful that I had the energy and tools to divert the 'flood'. I was also thankful for the nudge or premonition that took me outside so that my little disaster would be fixed.
If you've taken the time to read this far, I thank you.
Also I would like to say, if you spend your time thinking of how unfair God and the universe is to you, God and the universe will only hear the "unfair" part and you will get more of the same. If you can, think instead of the blessing God gives you. "As you think, so will you be".
Keep smiling my friends and "Just Let a Smile Be Your Umbrella" (those of you born in the 40's will remember this song and the Andrew Sisters)

Here Comes the SUN

Carpe Diem.....Seize the Day.
<---This little guy is the closest to a Sunny picture that I have. He makes me want to break in to song..."Here comes the suun, dah dah dada, here comes the sun, and I say it's all right". If you are a Beetles fan you'll remember that one.
Yep, the sun is out and I'ma going out to work/play in/on the garden...again! So, enjoy the sun if it's out where you are, or look forward to it coming out soon. Gotta gooooo.
::here comes the sun, here comes the sunnn.....lalala::

Rain ,Rain, Go Away

This is what I want to see. Sandy Beach and Sun. It's raining and raining and raining...I am developing webbed feet and fingers. Of course, the grass and flowers, etc. love all the moisture. I suppose I could dig a hole in the garden step into it and pretend to be a plant. Hmmm...what flower would I be? Lavender (my favourite scent) Daisy, Peony, Petunia, Forget-Me-Not, Wild Rose. I think Wild Rose.
Well, all this rain is forcing me to stay inside and do .....aggghh! housework. Nah! House work is Evil and should be banned! I did put some bread in the Breadmaker this am and the house smells good. There are some scrapbook projects I could finish. Well I'll get off my leeetle you know what and go do something. Rain, rain, go away, come again another day.
Some definitions of Rain: (courtesy of Knitwych on Ravelry)

Rainsneeze: Not enough to qualify as a shower, but enough to make the dogs go “WHAT? Pee in the rain!???? We’re calling PETA!”

Rainfart: Is when the skies darken oh so ominously but only three drops of rain fall and they evaporate before they hit the ground.

Rainpsych: Which happens when the skies darken oh so ominously, thunder rumbles in the distance, and the skies flash with lightning, prompting you to race outside to roll up vehicle windows, snatch the laundry off the line, pull the patio chairs up under the eaves so they won’t blow away, and then nothing happens at your house.

A Tribute To My Mother

This is a recent picture of my Mother who is in her 93rd year. She has some health issues, but, overall she is, for her age, okay and eats well, with a good appetite. She's able to get around with help and lives with my youngest brother who has help from "Access To Care" several times a week. I visit her usually on weekends. I will be visiting her next on the last weekend of July. We have our 'moments' of dissension and I must admit that I get impatient with her sometimes even when I know I shouldn't.
This evening I was on a knitting site and happened on this poem. It brought tears to my eyes and a poke to my conscience. I will be 70 a few weeks after she turns 93. I'm not too far from being a Crabbit Old Woman.

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Crabbit Old Woman

What do you see, what do you see?
Are you thinking, when you look at me-
A crabbit old woman, not very wise,
Uncertain of habit, with far-away eyes,
Who dribbles her food and makes no reply
When you say in a loud voice,
"I do wish you’d try".
Who seems not to notice the things that you do
And forever is losing a stocking or shoe.
Who, unresisting or not; lets you do as you will
With bathing and feeding the long day to fill.
Is that what you’re thinking,
Is that what you see?
Then open your eyes,
nurse, you’re looking at me.
I’ll tell you who I am as I sit here so still!
As I rise at your bidding, as I eat at your will.
I’m a small child of 10 with a father and mother,
Brothers and sisters, who loved one another-
A young girl of 16 with wings on her feet,
Dreaming that soon now, a lover she’ll meet,
A bride soon at 20- my heart gives a leap,
Remembering the vows that I promised to keep.
At 25 now I have young of my own
Who need me to build a secure happy home;
A woman of 30, my young now grow fast,
Bound to each other with ties that should last;
At 40, my young ones have grown and are gone,
But my man’s beside me to see I don’t mourn;
At 50 once more babies play 'round my knee,
Again we know children, my loved one and me.
Dark days are upon me, my husband is dead,
I look at the future, I shudder with dread,
For my young are all rearing young of their own.
And I think of the years and the love that I’ve known.
I’m an old woman now and nature is cruel;
'Tis her jest to make old age look like a fool.
The body is crumbled, grace and vigor depart,
There is now a stone where I once had a heart.
But inside this old carcass, a young girl still dwells,
And now and again my battered heart swells,
I remember the joy, I remember the pain,
And I’m loving and living life over again.
I think of the years all too few- gone too fast.
And accept the stark fact that nothing can last.
So open your eyes, nurse, open and see,
Not a crabbit old woman; look closer - see Me.
* *this poem is attributed to Phyllis McCormack**
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If you wish to read a little more about this poem here is the link
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crabbit_Old_Woman

Also check out the References at the end of the information. They make good reading.
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Tell someone today that you love them and really mean it. Put an action to those words and do something for them that will show how much you care. A gift of your time is the most precious thing you can give. It says that the recipient is worthwhile to you. A kind word also goes a long way.
I'm typing this very late at night because after reading the poem I couldn't wait until the morning to post it. Now I can go to sleep and be at peace.

SKILLZ

I don't know about the Dance Skillz, but I think I have downloading skillz today. I have a new (to me) digital camera and I finally took the time to figure out how to download the pictures I've taken into the Laptop. I was able to finally post pictures of two of my finished projects onto my Ravelry Projects page. I am very pleased with myself as I made my brain work for it's living today.
So, dear friends that's it for today. Have a good evening and sweet dreams 'till sunbeams find you, sweet dreams that leave all worries behind you.

Oh P.S. this means that pictures of my garden will be forthcoming....aren't y'all buzzily with excitement? LOL

Who Are You and What Have You Done With Ann of Green Cables?

I don't know who this woman is that has been cleaning my house! She just showed up yesterday and started by dusting, vacuuming and tidying up the 'lower level' (aka finished basement) and today she did the same to the main level. It looks and smells so pretty. I hope she shows up again to do the second floor.
I think I caught a glimpse of her in the now shiny clean mirrors. She looks suspiciously familiar. Hmmm....reminds me of my Mom....oh Heavens to Murgatroyd! It is Meeeee! Well, guess I can't disappoint myself, so tomorrow I will finish upstairs.
There's only me to mess up my little house and boy, can I do a good job of that! I do the everyday cleanup, but sometimes the dusting, etc. gets left in favour of getting outside in the garden (pictures coming soon!). Or, even getting on the laptop and catching up with friends old and new. Ah, the Lazy Me...sometimes she just takes over. Well, today I think she's not in sight...probably still napping in the bedroom.
So, now the weather has cleared up I just might go outside and survey the 'back 40'. Have a great weekend to all. ;o)

This Could be My Garden

This 'could' be my garden.....if I lived on Vancouver Island and I owned Buchart Gardens! It's good to have a goal, and although I know my garden is never going to look like Buchart's I can aspire to get close to it. My friend's son is working hard and the weeds and dead plants are being bagged (10 so far) so when all the cleaning up is done I can replant and divide up some of my perennials.
So, I think I will have some pictures of my own to put up in a few weeks.
Ahhh, the excitement builds! How will it look? Will Buchart's be all jealous? Stay tuned folks....all will be revealed in good time!

Where is Summer?

Here we are in mid July and it still feels like Spring, not Summer. Now, don't get me wrong, I like the weather to be "liveable" around 75F (I don't use Celsius, so sue me LOL) and a little breeze is nice. I would like to go swimming in my neighbour's pool or at the beach, so could 'the powers that be' PLEASE get the weather up to par so it feels like summer?
No more whining, about the weather. I'm not up to much today, a wonky stomach....probably my body's revenge for eating those fantastic, tastey cookies I had after supper. Won't admit how many, but obviously I can't eat that many again! Oh, pain and nausea are such good deterents aren't they? I've learned my lesson (again!) that I can't undulge like that anymore.
Now, after some ginger tea and a banana, I'm off to the great outdoors....my garden to pull up some weeds and wage war against the squirrels and chipmunks that invade the bird feeders.
So, my friends, take care..........and stay out of the Cookie Jar! (at least for today ;o) )
3:00 pm: I'm going to post pics of my garden when all the renovations have been done. Right now it's all dug up and kinda bare looking. My intention is to separate and replant the Hostas, the Tiger Lilies, the Peonies, and the Irises on the little hill at the back of the yard. So, my friends something for you to look forward to!

FAMILY

It is a beautiful day here in the "Great White North" and the start of a great weekend.
I'm off to visit my 93 year old Mom, who still lives in her own home, in Toronto,(since 1940) with the help of my 'baby' brother and Community Access to Care helpers. She has health issues (who wouldn't at 93), but she does her best to get around with her walker and wheelchair. I'm confident that we will have a great visit. It's my goal to take her for a 'wheel' around the block if the promised rain doesn't interfere.
Thought for Today
Look for positive things and positive people and you will find them.
Look for negative things and negative people and you will find them.
The choice is up to you. My choice is positive every time!

FRIENDS

I have recently been fortunate to link up with new friends, via their blogs. I have Marcy to thank for that. Their blogs are listed on the page for you to tap into and perhaps you will make some new friends as well. I can't remember exactly how I found Marcy's blog, Blessings Each Day, but I believe she was a gift from our Maker and I appreciate that gift more than words can say. Please check out all my links and perhaps you will be blessed as well.
The picture I've posted today is of two of my favourite little sweethearts. They were brought together through me and they are fast friends. My hope is that their friendship will last a lifetime.
It's a beautiful day here in Oshawa, and now I'm going outside to enjoy my garden. By that I mean actually sit on the deck and enjoy the view which is now minus 90% of the weeds. Sunday should be a day of rest as it says in the bible, and I'm not one to argue with God. There would be some bad consequences I think. LOL ;o)

I Love My Garden.. buuut..

First, you should know, this isn't what my garden looks like. It's what I WISH it looked like, it's what I WANT my garden to look like, buuuttt, right now I'm still playing catchup with the weeds that want to overtake my garden. It's either been too hot, too rainy or perhaps the 'Lazy Bug' bit me, but I am nowhere near getting the garden where I would like it to be. Well, you say to yourself "if she wants to get the garden in shape, why is she posting here instead of being outside?" Answer: I'm taking a lunch break and then it's back outside. I'm just being a wuss and complaining (a little). I really do enjoy getting out there and riiiippping out those nasty weeds and I like the clean look it gives to the yard. I will be getting some help next week in the form of the 16 year old son of a friend who wants to earn $$$$ to help him go with his class, next year, to visit France and WW I and II historic sites. So, enough complaining, go out now silly girl and do the work. (Tell yerself it's FUUUNNNN!) LOL

IT'S CANADA'S BIRTHDAY!!!!!

Happy Canada Day to all! This our 142nd Birthday! This is a great country and we welcome you to celebrate with us. To all who have sacrificed to keep us safe and free, THANK YOU. We owe you a debt that can only be repaid by constant vigilance to keep our country free. That vigilance must be tempered by a sense of justice. To those in the world who use terror to subdue their people, shame on you. Whatever your beliefs, know that this world's possessions will turn to rust and when you meet your maker you will answer for your deeds.
LONG LIVE FREEDOM!!!! LONG LIVE CANADA!!!!

SMILE FOR A SUNDAY

Here's a Sunday Smile for you.
The picture here is of two of my favourite girls! One is my youngest granddaughter, and the other is my youngest 'adopted' granddaughter. They are the funniest 5 and 6 year old girls in my family. They were having a playdate and decided to entertain us with the Elvis and Princess duo. They giggle and get up to mischief (nothing naughty), and 'feed' off each other's imaginations.
People come into your life for a long time or a short time and we really don't know the span when we meet. When we have a positive relationship with anyone we should regard it as a lifetime, because even it turns out to be for a little while, the experience will live with one for a long while. You never know how much a kind word or deed will impact on others.
I try to accept and take into my life only the positive experiences, because I know that they are the "keepers". The not-so-positive can serve as a reminder to value the good relationships.
Without the darkness we would not appreciate the light. Without the bad, we would not value the good. So we should not curse the darkness, but light a candle to disperse it. I want to light as many candles as I can, especially the ones in my mind, because it's a given that the darkness starts in our God given minds.
A Blessed Sunday to all and, smile. Your smile is the candle that disperses the darkness.

SUMMER TIME

It's officially Summer, so here's what I'm looking forward to. A day or a week or two at the beach in Georgian Bay with my family.
I've decided to look forward and anticipate the best I can think of. I'm still bothered about recent events, but less and less. If something not good is going to happen, there's nothing I can do about it. It's in a Greater Power's hands.
So, to everyone who reads this....Celebrate good times, c'mon! Don't worry, be happy, don't worry be happy! Lalalalalala....

State of Mind

I am slowly coming to terms with the new me. After much introspection, I realize that my brain fuzzies are happening because I must make an adjustment on how I visualize my self. In my mind, I was a competent, reliable, safe driver. Now, after the "unfortuanate series of events", there is a crack, not only on my car, but in my mental image. My sense of being in control has been cracked as well. I am not a controlling person, in the sense of wanting to be large and in charge of others. I retired from that many years ago. Just control of me and my life is what I want. Now that little bit of control has been taken from me. That is what's bothering me I think. People I don't know have control of some aspects of my life. I'm still waiting for the other shoe to drop, I suppose. Time and distance will help me to let go and be okay agan.
Adjustments will take place. Broken things will get mended. I will go on as I always have.

I AM PUZZLED

I am puzzled by my feelings of helplessness and my brain is in a whirl. My faith in my God is strong and I know He will help me get through this. However, the frail human me is unsure. I want to put these feelings away and have complete trust that all will work for my good, so why do I let myself feel sad and helpless. It could be Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and it must work its way out of me.
To explain the above....and it's a little traumatic to divulge this....I have been driving, accident-free for almost 52 years. Last Friday, late afternoon, I was involved in a "fender bender"....literally my front fender is slightly dented and the headlight and day driving lights are also slightly damaged. I was not able to stop completely behind the car in front, whose driver had pulled to the right and stopped because several huge fire trucks were coming from the left (north) out of the station. I was momentarily distracted by the frightening sound of sirens and these huuuuge trucks going east (as I was) into the lane I was in. Knowing that I should go over to the right lane, I did that and then I saw that the car ahead had stopped. Ironically, I was being careful to stay well back and go less than the 50kmh (about 30mph) as it was a driving school car and I was concerned that a student driver might be driving it and be a little unsure or drive slowly or erractically (turns out there was no student in the car). I braked as quickly and as hard as I could, and as the saying goes, "2 little inches can make all the difference"that is all I would have needed to not hit the car and I hit his back bumper. The bumper had two little (under 1 1/2 ") tears in the rubber/plastic. It was the sort of damage that you could get if a sharp object was behind you and you backed into it. I was not charged with anything, because the fact was, that the distractions of 3 trucks coming across the highway gave me very little time to react. The firefighters and EMS people backed me up on this. There were no injuries to me and, here's the disturbing part for me, the other driver (male) was perfectly fine, walking around, talking on his bluetooth and when the EMS worker asked if we were okay, I said I was fine...my seatbelt had not even got tight across my chest, and my pulse was about 90 when he took it. When he asks male driver, he replies, " well my neck might be sore". So EMS person takes him to the ambulance, checks him out and says he's okay, but as per protocol asks if the man wants to be checked out by a physician at the walk-in clinic. He opts to do that and goes by ambulance to the hospital walk-in clinic; he wouldn't wait for the police who got there about 10 minutes later.
I conducted myself in a calm manner, I did not panic, although I was a bit hyper, and gave my information to the police officer. Now I am waiting for the "other shoe to drop". In Ontario we have No-fault insurance. Which means that each driver contacts their own insurer. That insurer then contacts the other insurance company for compensation as warranted. As there is less damage to my car than the deductable I would pay, I am not contacting my insurer. In a few days I will be able to get the accident report from my nearest police station. So, now I am left wondering how the other person will conduct himself, given his decision to go to the emerg. Was he being cautious, or looking to get more $$$$ compensation from the insurance companies? I want to believe that he will be an honourable person and not go for the dough, but, people will do what they believe they can get away with.
Now, dear reader, if you have read this far, do you perceive that I am a little unsure of the outcome? I know I must wait, but the wait is doing in my head right now.
Gosh, I am nearly 70 and I don't need this much excitement in my life. Please God, help me to know that You are in charge and all I need to do is have faith to Let Go and Let God take care of me.

The View

I love Spring. The promise of beauty to come. The anticipation of all the hard work paying off in gorgeous vistas of flowering plants and varigated greenery.
I don't actually have a view as beautiful as this, but the Adelweiss showing in the foreground remind me of my Bridal Wreath Spirea. They have cascades of tiny white flowers on the little hill in my back garden. The purple and mauve of the Iris, Lilacs, flowering Basil, Chive flowers and small petunias make the white stand out out even more. Sadly, the Bridal Wreath isn't going to last much longer, which makes the view all the more precious. More flowers will bloom and different aspects will be just as beautiful.
I suppose life is like that too. The current beautiful view will not last, but the hope of another to come, keeps us going. And, like the garden, it takes work and committment to keep the weeds from chocking out the beauty that is all around us.

Smile, Darn Ya , Smile

Well, I don't have quite the glamour that you see here, buuuut, my smile is restored. The extracted tooth space doesn't even show up when I smile. So that is something to smile about don'tcha think? I have no pain to speak of this a.m., but I took a Tylenol #3 as directed just to be on the safe side. Today, with my daughter and her two little cuties, I am going to visit my Mommy and Sis. Daughter is driving so I don't have to worry about the "do not operate heavy machinery, etc." warning. The day should be great and hey, if I'm a little 'high' on pain releivers....that's okay! Seriously, I take very few pain releivers (thank you God for good health) so any that I do take act very well to stave off the pain.
I'm getting ready to be picked up and the day is beautiful, and I have no complaints! Happy Day to everyone! Take care of your health. Be good to yourself. You are worth it!

Owwwwwch?!!!

I am getting ready to have a tooth extracted! I loosened the posts on the filling in my #15 or premolar and since the tooth was practically all filling it makes no sense to try and rebuild it. I am saaaaad about that, but the alternative was to spend approx. $200 to fill it again and maybe it would happen again or spend $300 to have it extracted. Other choices: $4000 to put in a "tooth" $500 to put in a partial plate, or "false tooth". As I am nearly 70 and not going to model for a toothpaste ad in the near or distant future, I opted to get it PULLED! I am not afraid of dentists, as a matter of fact, I get so relaxed in the chair that the "spit vacuum" is going constantly when work is being done. Well it's probably going to hurt a little afterward, but as it's an upper tooth I have gravity on my side and it probably won't swell up too much.
So, my tongue is saying goodbye to the tooth and will have a 'sad' when it's gone.
Nearly time for me to go to the appointment, so an update later. Ciao people, Ciao toothie!

UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE

3:15pm Extraction done. I'm, so far, free of pain. The freezing is well out of my system and having taken 1 pain/swelling reliever I feel ok. I suppose time will tell whether the pain free me will last over the next few days. As far as the esthetics of my smile, even with the broadest of smile, there is no evidence of a missing tooth. Guess I can't plan on scaring any childrens this Hallowe'en!

Does Absence Make the Heart Grow Fonder?

I haven't posted for awhile due to a heavy schedule (for me, anyway). Between family and friends I have been quite busy running the roads. So, I have been absent from my blog and my life I think.

I'd like to say my gardening hasn't suffered, but, alas it has. What with the rainy days we've been having and aforementioned RoadRunner incidences. I'm finally 'catching up' with myself after the Vacationthatwasn't. I think my mind is still trying to make sense of all the things that happened and trying to let go of the things that I can't change.

So, nothing exciting happening right now, and perhaps that is what I need. I feel like I'm transitioning, or something like that, into a new facet of my life. Could it be the impending 70th birthday coming up? Time will tell!

FAMILY TIME

I had a great time at my sister's yesterday. She had my mom, another sister and her grown sons, plus girlfriend, to her house for a delicious roast beef dinner. We ate, drank some wine, had angel food cake, strawberries and whipped cream (the real stuff!) and lots of laughs. Even though sis is a Mom and deserved to be waited on too, she went out of her way to make a beautiful afternoon and evening for her sisters and our Mom. Thanks little sis! Who would have thought, after all the hard times I gave you (some good times too) you would still want to feed me! LOL.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

Hello everyone. Tomorrow is Mother's Day and I wish all you beautiful women who are Mothers, Mothers-to-be, Mothers-by-Proxy, a long, happy life with your loved ones near.
Family is so important every day of every year and sometimes we take our families and extended families for granted.
The world will always try to turn our heads with the sparkley, shiney stuff. But I know the real and lasting stuff is the giving and receiving of love and the care that you extend to everyone you meet within and outside of your Family, whatever you deem that to be. I have been away from my family for three weeks and I was 'homesick' for them every day.
I tell myself every day that "I will always have enough" of what the world says is important, but I know, also, that I can't ever get enough love from, or give enough love to, my family and friends.
So, as the song by Bobby McFerrin says...Don't worry, be happy!

P.S. Thanks to all who sent their kind wishes and blessings to me after reading my previous post. I needed to vent my concerns and posting them helped tremendously.

Phew!

I'm home from my 'vacation', tired, sad, and wondering where three weeks went.
The trip to Williamsburg, VA, was supposed to be a fun and enlightening trip for three of us. It was enlightening, but only on the health care system in Williamsburg. My friend, Beth who had dreamed of visiting Wiliamsburg again after 10 years, took seriously ill and if she hadn't got to Sentara hospital in time she might have died. Sentara is the best healthcare facility I have ever seen. The care she was given for almost 3 weeks was impecable, the staff was top notch.
The other friend on the trip was incredable in how she dealt with the whole situation. She was the Power of Attorney for Beth, as well as the driver of the van. She and I spent many hours at Beth's bedside every day and also dealing with legalities, air transport for Beth and home care when she was finally flown home. There was so much drama, so much aggravation (not from hospital staff) that the 2 day drive back to Ontario seemed like it would be a rest. Not So!!! Many cellphone calls, from Ontario (interference from family members, non cooperation from the patient) it was a roller coaster ride for our emotions.
There was a silver lining to the dark cloud. I got to know our travelling companion better, had some laughs with her about the whole situation, learned how to shop the outlet malls and oh, yes, we did see some of the heritage part of Williamsburg and travelled around the area.
There is still a lot of hospital visiting coming up as Beth was transferred to our local facility and will stay there for a few weeks until the meds get her up and around.
People, please, please, take care of your health. Talk to your doctor about your complete health care, don't just take pills to aleve pain. Exercise your mind and body. We seem to take better care of our cars than our bodies, in my opinion.