Catching up.

Thursday evening was interesting.  After my get-together with the TFAM group, the afternoon was pretty well shot.  We did a bit of banking, went home and sort of looked at each other.  Then I suggested that we have supper out, prior to the show.  David made a reservation ( good move, as it turned out) at the restaurant in the casino hotel.  This was the same place as we had our Thanksgiving dinner, and quite busy.  We took a cab, so that we could both have a drink during the evening.  Phoned, and were told that it would be 10-20 minutes.  So we both  relaxed a bit.  I headed for the bathroom and barely got in before David shouts that the cab was there.  So a scramble to get our coats etc.  It turned out that the driver only lives a few blocks from us and had just been starting his evening shift.  The dinner was good, then on to the show.  That was disappointing.  The poor Kenny Rogers impersonator was a probably our age, and admitted that he was a cancer survivor. ( too much information, maybe?) The lady impersonating Dolly Parton, maybe tried a little too hard.  She was wearing heeled shoes with no back, and had trouble walking.  I wondered if the shoes were an effort to create a Parton-like walk.  The fellow had obviously read the Winnipeg paper and made quite a few "local" jokes.  None particularly funny.  The best thing about it was the back up band. The show lasted about an hour and 10 minutes.  I'm glad that it was a free show.  The couple sitting next to us had come in from Kenora and had a room at the hotel.  An expensive evening for them.  I think we might be hesitant to go to see a tribute band again.  There is a Patsy Cline  one coming soon, that David expressed an interest in.  We'll see.

Nothing coming up that is too exciting.  David watches tv, and plays Poker.  There are a couple of new games that he's finding interesting.  I'm keeping busy in the studio.  Not much art going on, but I am working, and that pleases me.

bus driver

We've taken a few casino bus trips over the years, and my memory tells me that there was always a collection for the driver.  I've always thought of it as a TIP.  At the same time, I disagree with it to a certain extent, as he is paid well for his service.

Proof....

Sad to say that I have proof that your sister is losing it......
We went down to Huntsville this morning early and i went into the Doctors office for my appointment for 0900.  It seems that I did not have an appointment - the Doctor is not even in today. My appointment was scheduled for Monday Dec 2 at 0900. How did I ever get it wrong?? And why am i so upset with this dilemma in the life? 
But not a wasted trip....To Starbucks i did go, to Starbucks I did go...high ho the merrio, to Starbucks i did go.  I went into the new store, looked around at everything, bought a coffee and a little reusable white plastic cup to put it in, and used my Starbucks Rewards card. Oh i was so happy. Harry choose to stay in the car and did not want a coffee. All the better for me then...
So here I am at home, and still wondering about my mental status - I even had a bath, did my hair, and dressed up - now i will have to do it all again for Monday. 
Wish me luck, and you folks take care. You may have to start to take care of me haha!

Same thoughts here...

Pati, I had that same thought and even expressed it to the organizer who seemed to shun the idea. Then by coincidence the next day i spoke with another of the regular bus goers, and i was surprised when i mentioned it to her that maybe we could all throw in an extra loonie or so into the box that is being collected for the bus driver - i was a bit shocked to hear her say that she and others were opposed to the idea of even collecting for the bus driver but that this organizer had taken over from her mother who had organized previously and since the mother had collected for the bus driver, she just carried on with this practice. So go figure.....!
On a happy note we made a special trip this morning up to North Bay to go to the Metro Store where Prime Rib Roasts were on sale!!!  Yeah, we are now the proud owners of a nice Roast which is now in the freezer awaiting Christmas. The price was worth the trip so I am indeed happy. Now we are in discussion as to the rest of the menu... interesting times!
I think this afternoon I might pull out some sewing that i started last week. Do you remember that box of 2 1/2 cut squares you gave me Pati??   That box has been worth its weight in gold for me. And i think that it is bottomless besides.... I made a complete double quilt in nine square blocks with them, and then several toppers, and now I have taken all the reddish fabric and i am sewing blocks to make another ? something - maybe a table top or whatever?? But it is all because i had to clear my machine and get back to sewing - to save my soul haha!
Anyway after the snow and freezing rain etc last night I see the sun shining now - maybe a nice day or two in store? Take care

Casino trip

David is suggesting that the passengers who do go, chip in to pay for any empty seat.  Might help keep the bus running every month.

Blogging

It is nice to hear from you both. Blogging is a habit forming activity for sure, and when events interrupt that habit, it can be difficult to re-establish same. However, from my perspective, I encourage you both to try to keep writing. I have mentioned before how much this Blog means to me and my life, and how much I look forward to seeing all the messages. 
Yesterday it was shopping in Huntsville, and then to visit the brother in law. We stopped at a Tim Hortons to buy him a coffee and bagel, and as I waited, I glanced at the display shelf. I was wonderstruck as all the new seasonal mugs and other items were on display - This year there is a collectors mug honouring Manitoba (it seems to be a series of Canadian themes as this mug was numbered #2 in the series) I must have it!! Also several other different mugs to choose from for the seasonal offering. So much to covet, it is mind boggling!
Also of great importance is that the long anticipated Starbucks is now open in Huntsville. I have waited long and hard to see it finally open up but it was the wrong time for me to enter and enjoy. Our time was limited yesterday so i just glanced with a promise to return. As it happens, I have a Dr appointment in Huntsville on Friday so I am planning to go to the Starbucks then and see what is up. Anticipation !
And then in the afternoon I received a telephone call from the Casino Rama organizer. The bus trips have been reincarnated. She apparently got a call from the Casino suggesting a new plan that would see a smaller bus ( 32 seat rather than the 55 seat coach) and that she would only have to pay $5.00 an empty seat instead of $25.00. So she reconsidered her decision and has decided to continue. We are booked for the first trip starting in the new year on January 30. I guess I shall have to start to save my coins again haha!
So yesterday was a happy day with good news to spread a smile on my face. Today I start with the cleaning of the bird cages so it just gets better and better, right!  The breeding pair have 7 new eggs in the cage - all of her eggs from the first attempt did not mature but it did not take them too long to get back at it. Oh woe is me!
Take care folks.It is raining right now but supposed to turn to sleet and snow before the day is up.

Re-establishing my habits

One thing I didn't get with the second data transfer for my computer, were the very many internet sites I had bookmarked.  It used to be my habit to sit with my tea, during and after breakfast, and deal with all of the computer junk, checking my e-mail, playing those games that require daily use, and cruising the Internet.  This was the most frequent time for my blogging, and I tried to make it a habit.  In the evening I do a more hasty check, and often, if I haven't blogged in the morning do it then.  Like Cathy, I'm having trouble establishing those habits again, after being without the computer for almost three weeks.  

I'm, also, slowly trying to re-connect with all of those web sites I used to spend hours searching out.  One thing I don't want to make a habit of is 2-3 hours in my nightie playing on the internet every morning.

After my busy Saturday, I still don't appear to have caught up with myself, or else, I'm fighting something off, such a s a cold or mild flu.  Just no energy, and wanting to sleep all the time.  another thought is that we haven't yet replaced the CO2 detector that fell apart.  Best we look after that in the morning.  This has meant just basically doing nothing other than the basic minimum- preparing food for myself, and bathing.  This is giving me lots of time to reading Kelley Armstrong's Cainsville series.  Really weird ( really weird!) but not something one ever wants to put down.  I'm finally on the last book of 5, but just getting started.  I also know there are one and maybe two  novellas, associated with the series.  I've read one of them, "Rough Justice", and have the other on order.

Thursday, we are going to a concert at Club Regent.  If you remember, last year we saw Randy Bachman, in November.  this year it's a free concert for Players Club members, a tribute show to Dolly Parton, and Kenny Rogers.  David had to get up early one morning, and get in line to pick up tickets at the Ticketmaster box office.  Each Club member was allowed only two.  Well before we found out about this, I had signed up for a casual meeting and workshop with Textile and Fibre Art Manitoba, an organization I belong to and exhibit with.  The meeting lasts from 10:30 to 1:30, so with the concert, we're looking at a very long day.  However, tomorrow is also "pay day" and that means grocery shopping.  Not looking to that, at all, given how exhausted I am right now, after doing nothing today, but having a nap.

Almost 7:00.  Best have my bath and get ready for bed.  Oy vey! My life has come to this!

p.s. Just before I signed off I remembered the blog "Pickled Gizzards" by Alison Schwabe  ( I needed to add her name when googling it)  I checked it out and found not 1, but 3 blog entries I had missed when the computers were down. All about cooking Lamb and "Fairy Bread".

My only excuse is laziness

I read the blog everyday but never seem to post. Things have been moving along slowly here. We went to Chloe’s birthday party on Friday. Both Jim and I have been fighting colds but we loaded up on drugs and headed out. Of course we brought Auntie Kik with us.  Chloe’s birthday supper of choice was French fries, spicy chips and cucumbers. The rest of us had pizza. She also wanted the bumps so the 3 grammas there obliged her. We also met her new kitten “Whiskers”. She had been asking for a kitten at thanksgiving and it seems this one wandered into their lives just before Halloween. They put up some found posters and left a message at the vet clinic but no one came forward. It is the friendliest little black kitten. Saturday was the Christmas Wish Sale at the yellowhead. This year I only worked 2 shifts. And left. No stress for me at all. I did buy Sandi her present. She asked for something specific and a vendor had it there. And of course I bought some fudge. The Parade of lights was Saturday evening. Other than one big break in the flow it was one of the best parades yet. Lots of floats, towed by lots of BIG farm equipment and everything covered in lights. Also every firetruck and RCMP car in town. The kids loved the sirens and horns. Sunday we did nothing but watch football. American and Canadian!  Yeah Bombers. I didn’t realize it had been 29 years since our last grey cup win. Today we are going to get together with Jim’s sister Jean for a visit. And so another week starts

Three down, and a zillion to go.

I culled my cookbook shelf as well, awhile ago.  I kept the ones I use most, and a couple with sentimental value, but now I see a few more have crept back on.  I very much value my "Better Homes and Gardens New Cookbook", the one with the pink gingham cover, or was it red, and has just faded that much? I have to admit that the recipes I now use generally come from the Dr. Phil book.

Yesterday was spent at the gallery in Selkirk.  It was the annual event-- Holiday Alley, where the entire block of the main street is closed off and all the buildings are lit up with events happening all over.  We had asked for only small musical groups with no amplifiers.  That we got--group after group of one or two men with guitars singing---similar songs over and over again.  Finally there was a young lady with a guitar, but her voice was so low that no-one could hear her. But over all it made for a relaxed but sociable day in the gallery.

While out at the Gallery, I took a look around to see if I could spend the $60.00 gift certificate I had won in a draw a couple of months ago.  I found a very nice wreath, and a small daintie tray. Over the years, every time I have ladies over, I serve dainties on a dish from my Christmas china regardless of the time of year. I no longer have to do that.  Black wouldn't have been my first colour choice but it was really the only thing that caught my eye.  I tend to go for pottery when I shop like this, probably because I can't do it myself. As a bonus, it was made by one of the ladies who donated the gift certificate for the fund draw.

The wreath is now hanging on our front door.  Now both of us keep thinking there is someone at the door.

This afternoon David ran a few errands while I sat and enjoyed my coffee at Starbucks.  He had to pick up three prescriptions.  Almost the end of the year, and Blue Cross has run out. $388.00.  "Nuff said about that. Then home where he looked after the wreath, recycling and garbage detail.  I spent time working on the presentation I have to give to the Quilters' Guild.  I had planned it all out and took pictures.  Then I had to insert a note about what pictures I wanted where within the presentation script, at the same time as editing the script itself.  One lady said she would help me with  the pictures, and I sent them all to her, via e-mail on Friday. I have heard nothing from her, even though I specifically asked her to let me know if she received them, even following up with an e-mail yesterday, asking again.

Then I had a thought.  Oh oh. Not usually a "Good Thing".  She had mentioned putting them in a PowerPoint format, and during my trials with the computer, someone had used the word "PowerPoint".  So I checked out the various programs on my computer and there is was.  I played with it, not having used it in 30-40 years, and wasn't I able to get all of the photos in, and in the right order.  I've saved it to a USB stick, but won't say anything to anyone, but rather take the USB stick with me on the day, just in case.

So now we both relax, until time for the football game.  I have offered to go for take-out food, so supper is taken care of.  Maybe I'll even find a minute to sew.

Good to be Back in business,,,,

That is how I was going to start this message but then just read your tale of woe about Shaw so hope at last that will be the end of it Pati. I was thinking all the time I read about your needing help etc that things were so much simpler before we got connected to technology and how it came that we are all required to comply with these necessary and involved steps in order to watch a TV show, or read a message from family or friends ( not a letter in the post that is!) Although, it does give some select few a job doesn't it? Those people with whom we talk and allow to take over our world, have to work, after all!
I had a run in with local road maintenance the other day resulting in a written formal complaint to the Town office. Yesterday afternoon I took the dog out just in time to see the Supervisor out the front taking a picture of my said issue. So we sparred. It took a while before the conversation turned pleasant and in the end we both came away I think, with a better understanding. These sort of confrontations take a tole on me and I never feel at peace because I think about it and play it over and over until I get upset again. 
We are in the cookie factory still and i hope perhaps today shall be the end of it as all the cookies are baked, but some need some decorations yet which should take place today. Then i need to store them until we make up trays to take to both Mike and Will, and also this week to Harry's sisters husband who we plan to visit on Tuesday while we are in Huntsville for shopping. His medical condition keeps him attached to the home on oxygen, and he is basically isolated and lonely. He sends us songs on the computer and emails all the time, and has taken to calling most evenings just after 6 pm because he has a cell phone that has a plan of unlimited calls after 6 pm. Donna still works and is most often not at home much. 
yesterday one of the shelves of the book shelf where i keep a million cookbooks collapsed so I knew it was time to organize it. Harry keeps bringing home cookbooks from the dump store, and it has become unmanageable. I have my favourites and usually do not venture into most of the others. I took three boxes of culled books down to the storage unit to store until we can drive them up to his sister in law in Kirkland Lake - she loves cookbooks and will sit all day looking at them.  I was surprised that Harry actually let me get away with this. Anyway, I was able to fix the shelf so that it will hold steady ( for now) and have most of the ones I want to keep nicely shelved - looks neat and tidy. However, i found some very interesting books including one that brought back some happy thoughts / nostalgic reading! And it involves you Pati. Remember Recipe Book compiled by The Ladies Auxiliary of the Winnipeg Citizens Radio Club?  Recipes from folks that I remember and names I remember from way back and names I remember you mentioning: Mac Findlay, Pat Findlay, Sheryl Chapnick, Chris Gunn, Sonya Gunn, Linda Lisecki, Shelley Chochinov, to name a few and I am sure you would recognize many of the others. To make a long story short, I spent far more time going through some of my keeper books than I should have, but I had a ball!
Well i better go and get ready for another day. Take care.

It never rains but-----

Today the "black box' that connects my tv to Shaw died.  This meant that David had to disconnect everything and take it to the Shaw store to get a replacement.  Then the replacement had to be connected, and programmed to match my tv.  Sounds simple?  No it isn't.  David brought home the new box, connected it, and said that the rest was up to me.  I had a booklet of written instructions that had so many names of parts and tasks that it read like Greek.  so, I called Shaw.  Spoke to a nice lady, who took over while we were on the phone.  Just sitting there with nothing to see, as we were only on the phone.  She asked me to get David on the line as the account is in his name and privacy matters--of course.  (snort) It took about 45 minutes but she got me up and running and we hung up after my thanking her.  I turned around and the damn system is doing up dates.  Meanwhile David headed out yet again, (we had been out earlier for coffee and groceries) because the yogurt he had bought was the wrong one.  Once he was home everything settled down, until he turned his tv on. No connection.  So he gets on the line to Shaw, and discovers that in connecting me, the lady had disconnected his black box instead of the broken one of mine.  this meant that he had to go back to the Shaw store for yet another box, which he brought home and then had to call Shaw yet again to get his connected.  That took awhile.  I had eaten supper ( this had been going on since about 1:00)  so he sat down to supper and discovered that his tv was now doing up dates.  In between all of this we were trying to get our huge , once-a-week laundry done.  

We both spent the evening playing poker.

Back in business

finally.  Not nearly as much stress this time.  I managed to do most things by myself.  I was amused by how much I had learned by watching The Geek Squad working on the computer.  I ended up needing help to set up my e-mail, and in connecting to the news channel.  In the end I realized that I had been connected to Microsoft news, which is just the Microsoft company newsletter--all feel good stories, and not the news I have been watching for years.  So today my chore will be to figure that one out.  Monday I had another meeting out in Selkirk, not getting home until the middle of the afternoon.  Then it was full out housework getting ready for my stitchery ladies coming on Tuesday afternoon.  In the end only three of them came, the others having weak excuses such as as long scheduled MRI.  Where are their priorities?  lol.  But it was a chance to use Mom's fancy saucer/plates.  Then, I always think of family and how we all have a part of that precious memory of life at home, and the frantic house cleaning that preceded a visit of the "Spinsters".  Having a group like this over leaves me exhausted but with a good feeling about having the whole house clean at the same time.  That sure doesn't happen often.

By the time the ladies left, I was absolutely wiped out.  David took me to a movie--"Terminator: Dark Fate".  The local theatre has seen better days.  They are in the process of a huge renovation at that mall, given the availability of the building that housed the Sears store.  That has been taken down to pilings and roof, and, I understand, that there will be a new theatre, restaurant, a grocery store, and some other retails stores. So there's no hope of any improvements in the old theatre.  We sat in the back row, that is mainly reserved for wheelchair attendants and "people with mobility issues".  These seats are only rarely used, and in much better shape than most of the others.  I figure we qualify, and we probably actually do.  Much more comfortable than other seats that are always quite a struggle to get out of.  Not that we didn't have a choice, as there were only 14 people in the theatre.  We've found that the early show, on "cheap" Tuesdays, is often less crowded than later.  Once we were the only people there!

After the show, we went out gambling, and came home ahead, so yesterday, did a bit of shopping.  Food certainly, but also some clothes.  We are finding that only doing laundry once a week,  (which our poor sore backs love), leaves us short of some things.  Luckily, David found the long sleeved winter t-shirts he loves on sale.  I had wanted a couple more pair of pants to fit my expanding body ( yes, expanding, making me very unhappy with myself).  They apparently weren't on sale,but I bought them anyway.  She rang them up and I immediately questioned how small the bill was.  "Oh" she says "They're 40% off for a surprise sale, Today and tomorrow,  everything in the store is 40%off".  So we bought a third pair.  I also picked up a pair of slippers when we bought David's shirts.  I wore them after my shower last night and they hurt.  This morning I couldn't put on any slippers, my feet were so sore.  I sure hope they will take them back, but I'm not optimistic.

Today, I'm looking at taking it easy, and tomorrow as well.  Saturday, I'm working in the Gallery in Selkirk.  It is the yearly event "Holiday Alley".  I've working the last two years for this event, and loved every minute of it, although it's very busy and I come home exhausted.  The latest Rockton book is waiting for me at the library.  I've been reading some of the Steve Berry books you recommend, Beth, and can't put them done, once I get started.  I'm also re-reading some of the "Wild Hunt" series by Kelley Armstrong.  related to her Cainsville series, but separate, I find them amusing, as well as interesting. A melding of current moral standards with ancient Celtic beliefs. Best read in order, as all of her series are.

David is up, and it seems we need to go to the wine store today.  Best get dressed before we leave.

Maybe Spring has come?

NO, not really but i could hope. It is milder last day or two and the snow is melting, and where i did the roof has melted to show shingles and snow melting and dripping off the eaves. Nice if it were true - but rain forecast for a day or two and then the temps will fall again and I expect more snow. How is that for your morning weather report? haha!
Shopping yesterday as usual and i bought a new pair of runners at The Thrift Store - never worn and tags still attached. I am wearing them in the house - just like you have a house pair of shoes for the house, Pati. I find them very comfortable and supportive so hoping they may help me with safety issues as well. I found the slippers I was wearing were not all that safe.
Harry also bought three huge green cabbage on sale at Freshco - and yes, we made another large batch of saurerkraut and have it sitting in the big crock now to ferment or whatever saurerkraut does. The first batch is already bottled in jars.
We were trying to price a prime Rib Roast for Christmas Dinner and not having any luck - so expensive. The Butcher Shop in Sprucedale came back in their message that we could have a 10 lb roast for $150.00. Guess what - we have decided to plan to go with another meal. Just trying to choose something other than another Turkey Dinner that we had for Thanksgiving, which would be fine if we had to.
Well I have to make myself something with eggs this morning - perhaps scrambled eggs on toast? Yesterday at the checkout Harry was trying to put an 18 eggs carton into the bag and the lid slipped and eggs fell out into the bag itself, - so we struggled to rectify the situation as good as we could as we were holding up the line. Needless to say when i got home i had to fix it and found myself with some eggs cracked so i shall use them now. The situation could have been much worse so we got away lucky.
Hope all is well...take care

YEAHs all around....

Happy, happy - so happy you are back in the saddle Pati and your message expressed your excitement - I could "hear" it ....haha!
Take your time to set things up so that you get it the way you want, and the way that will work for you.
And how about those Winnipeg Blue Bombers eh???? 
Take care

Success!

David's computer accepted the invitation to participate, and is now all set up.

Hi there.....

for the moment, I'm in.  Just got home form picking up my new computer, and now have to re-establish all of my settings.  I'm actually quite proud of myself.  I guess I learned a few things via my trials over the past two weeks, because I got back in to Google and back into Blogger all by myself.

So this is just a short note to say hello, and now I must go and spend the rest of the evening, while David watches the end of the football game. getting set up again

A bit of chatter....

Still cold and snowy here but managing to survive the " winter" so far. Yesterday I did the roof in anticipation of forecast mixed precipitation in next day or so - I shall continue my quest to keep the roof from icing over and causing all the leaking in Spring as we experienced this Spring. I am determined to succeed so I shall forge ahead. With the snow rake and step ladder I can only clear about 6 to 8 feet up from the eavestrough but it may be enough to prevent the 'daming" effect. Time will tell.
No more trips to the Casino!!!! I received a call from the organizer who says she will no longer be running the bus trips related to issues with the Casino and the Bus company and the contract. They have told her that she will have to pay out of pocket $25.00 for each empty seat on the bus. Lately there has not been a full load travelling so it would mean a considerable expense and actually quite an unacceptable request to expect her to pay. Of course if we wanted to, we could drive the two hours and go on our own but that is not going to happen - it was the idea of the bus trip that made the whole event an adventure for us. The new Casino in North Bay is under construction now and due to open in the Summer 2020 so there is always an option there to try it out. Oh well, it was fun while it lasted!!!
Christmas cookie baking here right now - Harry is on a roll with his baking up a storm ( and with me helping haha!) Yesterday early in the morning while i was sitting with my coffee and thinking as i always tend to do,  I had a sudden urge to set up my little fibre optic tree. What a thrill - just for me of course - so I managed to dig out the box from the basement, and set it up, and light it up, and voila - happiness and delight!  One needs to do something wonderful for oneself after all.......
So lots on my 'to do" list for today so I'll get at it now. Hope all is well with everyone, and you are keeping warm...take care

Pretty early morning

Just came in from taking the dog out for his early morning constitutional. It is milder today and a light snow is falling gently all around making for a very pleasant scene. If it weren't still mid November and if I knew this "winter" weather were not staying I might feel even better about it. Take what I get I guess.  But for sure, one thing on my agenda for today will be snow shoveling. I make my "list" or agenda or whatever one wants to call it every morning- add to it as the day goes on sometimes- but the thrill is crossing off in big heavy strokes those chores that have been accomplished - however big or small... haha!
The Christmas cakes are baked and wrapped and stored away except for one which I am slowly slicing and eating. As it turned out, I was very much a part of the preparation process as i knew i would be. But that is OK - always is OK.
Yesterday I had to turn on the heaters etc in the basement which meant a bit of shuffling of stuff, but I did much work and by the end of the day felt very satisfied with progress. It helps to feel you have been productive rather than to have made no difference. Of course, it is only me who sees any progress and only me who can determine success on such days. Slow and steady should be my motto.
So here's to the weekend again. Hope all is well folks. And Pati hope all your computer woes shall be resolved. Take care.

Better news from your perspective Pati

As you say, now let's wait and see that what is promised is delivered.. I felt I was with you all day yesterday and urging you on, and praying for miracles.... maybe it helped a bit???haha!
We shopped yesterday and made a trip into Bulk Barn to purchase the necessary ingredients for this years Christmas Cakes. Harry has it in his mind to bake a batch again this year. Once home he checked a recipe and then I ventured into our local Village Bins to purchase the remainder of the items.  I organized everything i could last evening for him to get started this morning.It is always a real process. However i am going over to visit with dear old Daisy and will not be in the kitchen to help Harry. He is fine with this - we'll see,
I baked a cake, and will ice it shortly and then cut and place on a plate to take with me - i always take something.I spoke with her son to arrange the visit and he says she is really deteriorating with her dementia and right now is really not with it much? I shall stay for a bit and talk with her but I am sure the son and granddaughter will keep the conversation flowing - they talk non stop!
Bitter cold in these parts still and very unpleasant. I almost hate to  take the dog out and even with his little sweater on I fear for his comfort - no way I could ever put boots on him. I have tried and failed many times.
So on with another day ...breakfast and then march on. Happy that you may be back in business Pati and with a new computer that you like. Keep us informed...take care

My thanks, and an update

 My trip today, to Best Buy, was a bit anti-climatic.  I prepared my self for battle.  Wore my luck underwear.  Wore what would have been work clothes, in the day.  ( do we all remember those days?  Cathy is the closest to them)  David insisted on going with me.  I took all of my receipts, and even took the very old computer in the trunk of the car, in case any sort of data transfer became necessary.  I practiced say "Fix it or replace it".

Went into the store, and waited a bit for other customers to be cared for. saying that I knew I would be awhile.  The computer was sitting in front of my on the desk.  I was polite and explained what had happened on Sunday.  The fellow looked at me and said "Sounds like the computer itself is the problem".  I couldn't believe it.  Then he turned it on to see this black featureless screen I was talking about, and the damned thing came on and behaved beautifully.  Bad words!!

The final decision was that it would be replaced.  We spoke to the same guy who sold it to us. He talked about the upgrade they recommended.  I really wanted the 17" screen.  I think I could have lived with a smaller keyboard, but not a smaller screen.  Then David noticed one larger computer on the other side of the display table.  The salesman says "Oh, that's the new version of the one you have.  They are just coming in".  More bad words!!  This is what we had wanted in the first place, not to be told it didn't exist and the best they could offer me was their display model!  Anyway we are upgrading to the new version of what I had in the first place, but they  are "in transit", and may not be in until Friday.  So I have the new/old one, which is working well except for sending e-mail, and with Poker Stars.  They have agreed to assist me in working with Microsoft to re-activate the code on my Office 2019, which they installed on Sunday.  Lots of promises, we'll see how it goes.

Sisters.....

We shall offer words of encouragement / words of sympathy to you, our sister! Our world has brought us to dependency on these fancy gadgets, and when they falter, and we are without the power to rectify, then our world truly does feel as if it is starting to fall apart.
Let us hope that today you shall seek and receive satisfaction at Best Buy, or perhaps another reputable Computer Store. You can read the blogs as you say, so we shall continue to write.
Last night I went on my own to the Remembrance Day Candlelight Ceremony at the Cenotaph - lighting of candles to honour the Veterans.  Bitterly cold here and even with my several layers on, I was chilled. About 15 or 16 people attended - no lights around the cenotaph so flashlights were being used. They had special plastic candles already marked with Veteran names that had been  sponsored by others. The BBQ flicker they had brought to light the candles was not cooperating so some had lighters and even my matches and short taper candle i brought to honour my Mike did not want to light, so I just said a few quiet words to myself. But in the end we had the red flickering candles all along the edge of the cenotaph and all was well. Short and sweet remembrance. When i got home I had a hot milk to warm my soul and tempt me to sleep.
Today we plan to go to Huntsville to shop (Tuesday right?) and I for one will be very happy to get back home, out of the cold, and enjoy some down time- say what? - what is down time? haha!
All for now...take care. Thinking of you both and Pati, fingers crossed for you,

That was quite a wekk....

...and I did not really think it was "normal" for your Findlay home at all ( I know you were being a bit factitious) - but I guess necessary to get all those computer issues resolved - maybe not fully yet by the sounds of it, but well on the way. And I think of you fussing about needing the word processing especially with your Selkirk work pending - not a good time to go through all of this. Has it made you a better person????? And it sounds as if this week to come will be no quieter for you.  I wish I could watch the semi final game today with the Bombers and Calgary - apparently in the snow and cold. Hope Dave enjoys it - I'll get the final score off the WFP when I log on in the morning. I have always loved the CFL from as far back as our days at home it seems, but can never get to see any games anymore as I once was able to do occasionally when we had CBC TV.
Also related to your computer issues , now since I have attempted to start out with my Candy Crush game ( on level 11 by the way haha!) what a shame to see you at level 1 after all the fun you have had - but I am sure that will switch back or can be fixed in some way?.....can it?
Nothing but snow here and I am thinking of doing the roof but haven't yet got up the strength to go any farther than thinking haha!
Today I will get our cloths ready for tomorrows Remembrance Day Service at the legion - Harry's medals have to be put on his coat - properly!
I spent more time yesterday sorting through my "studio". Does not look a bit different but I know what I accomplished even if it does not look like it. I have budgeted my time to work slowly and consistently to ensure I am successful in my goal to rectify and re institute this room of solace for myself for the long winter months that apparently lay ahead.... haha!
So back to work for me folks - I have the wash to do here today and then some shoveling. Lots of fun. Take care

So---what's going on

As I mentioned, I have anew computer.  The first issue was difficulty getting onto, and staying on, the Internet.  Since David wasn't having the issue, we knew it was my machine.  I took it into Best Buy, and they checked it out, saying everything seemed okay. The only thing they could suggest was that maybe the programming inside the machine, that connected to Wi-fi,  was wearing out.  The problem had been getting worse over time, so this seemed a good bet.  They sold me a special USB stick that would take over that function.  This was last Tuesday.  I took it home and tried it out,  Didn't work.  Wednesday, we did everything we could to get around things, but nothing worked. so we went back to the store, and bought a new computer.  We  left both machines there for a "data transfer" that was supposed to transfer everything, onto the new computer.  ( It didn't, but did transfer every single bookmark I've ever made in Google.  Every friggin' one)

Meanwhile, I'm trying to do a tremendous amount of word processing for the gallery in Selkirk, in hopes of having part of the job to present to the Board at a meeting Nov 18.  So Thursday morning off we go out to Selkirk so I could have a one-on-one with the Board President, who was available in the gallery to talk with me.  That meeting went well, but took over an hour, while David sat patiently and waited.  It happened to be over the lunch hour, and by the end we were both very hungry, but also wanting a bit of "down time' after the two+ days of frantic worry, hours with The Geek Squad, and endless fuss about things.  So we headed out to South Beach for lunch at the buffet and a bit of R&R.  We had to quit before we wanted,  as neither of us likes driving that highway after dark.  We had also finished ahead.  So we carried on to Regent and spent a couple of hours there, including supper.  

Friday we picked up the machines, thinking all was well.  It wasn't.  I spent several hours Friday with on-line support from Geek Squad. I did find out that I had no word processing and would have to buy a new Word program. Did I mention that Friday was also laundry day.  We had decided to try only doing laundry once a week instead of twice, and really need to wash clothes that day.  Got'er done.  

This morning,Geek Squad trying to get me settled in with Candy Crush.  Again this meant going into Google and getting the app, except in trying to do it, I screwed up Google thoroughly, so needed to find help.  I ended up getting it, but was now back to level 1, instead of level 2085.  And I've lost all of the "perks" that come with advancing through the game.  Google appears to be sorted out.

David was very much wanting to watch the Football game this afternoon, but couldn't find it.  He spent some time on-line with Shaw, finding out that it was not being broadcast on any channel we have.  The only place it might be available was at Regent, in the sport bar there. We had planned a turkey dinner for today, after so many days of playing catch-as-catch-can with meals.  This meant getting the turkey on to cook by noon, while David went out searching for a new filter for the humidifier on the furnace--a chore too long ignored.  Part of the reason for this becoming urgent was me finding black mold in the bedroom.  This meant using a mold deterant on the wall and opening up the area to prevent more moisture and cols from getting at it.  So more time was spent re=arranging the bedroom furniture, and dealing with the wall.

Are you still with me?  Just life as normal in the Findlay house.

Finally, I drove David to the Casino, planning to head over to buy Word and then taking some time in Starbucks with a book before heading over to pick him up.  He suggested I go in to make sure they were showing it in the bar.  They weren't.  The game is tomorrow and we're welcome to go back then.

I'm not up to facing installing that program this evening, and David has fallen asleep in his chair. I've now found out that my e-mail program is not working either. How're things going with you?

"A Better Man"

I too am reading the book and not liking it.  I think if I wasn't so enmeshed with this series I might just quit and move on.  But I will persevere.  There has been lot going on, and i will try ti make a longer post this evening, as the madness continues this afternoon.  but I am posting this on my NEW computer.  And that is an adventure in itself.

A quickie note

The Librarian told me about a great site she uses to track new books and seek writings from specific authors. I logged onto it and was delighted to see all about my current favourite authors and books and upcoming releases and thought you folks may like it too - that is unless you both are already aware??  It is: fantasticfiction.com
I am currently reading Louise Penny newest Gamache novel A Better Man, , and I have the next book in the Kelley Armstrong Rockton series here at home waiting for me to crack open the cover as soon as I finish Gamache, I read on this above site that there is a fifth Rockton novel upcoming as well.
More snow overnight and much more forecast in the days to come - I guess this is it!!!
Hope all is well....take care.

Stupid Cactus!

Ours struggled to bloom last year, and almost missed Christmas.  this year. It still doesn't have even the hint of a bud.  Either of them.  We haven't moved them.  David controls the watering, but hasn't changed anything there.  Who knows!

Cactus

Oh, I am so happy to hear that your cactus is blooming. My cherished Maplewood Ave Cactus is also covered with blossoms - almost on every stem. When they open up the entire plant will be covered with gorgeous flowers. But I always thought this early flowering was a result of having the plant outside all summer, and then when I bring it in, it kick starts that blossoming period.  My plant is a cut from the original which Dave had in the front room and cut a piece for me to bring back here  many, many years ago and for many, many years it sat dormant until suddenly it started to grow and now is big and beautiful. So Dave, when do all your cactis plants actually flower??

there are Easter Cactus, Christmas Cactus and then there is Cathy

She has a Halloween Cactus.  It has bloomed in late October, early November for years (it is actually a piece that fell off of the cactus at Land Titles.... It also bloomed for Halloween.)  We never get kids on Halloween anymore (since the neighbours and April's kids all grew up) so we finally took Jim's sister out for her birthday supper.  She wanted Chinese so we went to the buffet at the Bamboo. We all behaved and didn't eat until we were sick.  It was very good, as usual.  On Sunday, the Choralliers (female singing group) had a 50's Sing a Long at ArtsForward.  Rrain is a member and had  invited me, but I had forgotten about it until about 2pm when I saw the ad in the paper. It started at 2:30 so I said why not and headed out.  It was fun.  Quite a large crowd, and all the choralliers had on Poodle skirts and neck scarves.  Looked really good.  They projected all the words on an overhead screen and for a couple of sets they just sat at the back and let the crowd take over the music. There was a surplus sale in town this week.  All Helly Hansen stuff.  I wasn't going to buy anything, but I found a pair of sort of hiking boots.  I usually just wear my shoes all winter unless the snow is deep, and these are partly insulated but shoe level not boot level.  I've worn them out for a walk on the trail and into town.  I need to adjust the tongue on the right foot (that is the foot that was so swollen last year and never quite got down to the same size as the left foot). Other than that quite comfortable.  Today it is back to town for more medication for Jim.  He has already used up his Blue Cross coverage so I am paying both for the Blue Cross and for the drugs.  Makes me wonder why but then I do get Dental and emergency coverage, and my drugs are not used up yet, but close.  At least we don't have to come up with the money for his hearing aids.  That was a nice surprise and very welcome.  Jim is up and dressed so I guess it is time for breakfast.

Stress of computers and .....

....how to manage same. I have always felt this way and yet it is me who has to troubleshoot issues here at home. At times I have spent hours on the phone with the Geek Squad and find myself apologizing vigourously throughout the conversations - mostly because I do not understand what they want me to do, nor can I find how to do it on my computer. Once they take control I am completely lost, but in a way feel more relaxed. We have Bitdefender and I use their Safepay program for doing the banking on line. Even though I still feel very vulnerable with this process on paying bills on line, I have to do it. Every once in awhile I get a pop up box saying Bitfender has recognized a "portal attack" and has stopped it. I do not pretend to know what that is, but I fell better seeing that message. Maybe all lights and mirrors, but still I feel better. Hoping your attempts to rectify prove successful Pati.  And Cathy you mentioned some issues awhile back - have you worked them through?
Snowing still here and I have grave doubts that we may see the end of the white stuff - will it be here to stay????   This happened last year - it snowed on Nov 1 and we never saw the end of it until the next May. So much to look forward to...haha!  Take care

Exhausting day

Having trouble with my internet, and hearing that the last time the Geek Squad was here, the fellow said I was just about out of memory, I took the computer into Best Buy today.  They said that the problem was more likely that   piece inside that controlled Wi-fi was starting to wear out.  They had a little gadget that could take over Wi-fi and it would be a cheap fix that they would recommend for the first step.  All I had to do was plug it into a USB pot. We also found out that we were entitled to Bitdefender as part of the package we bought in June for their services.  They would install it if we left the computer with them, or we could call their on-line service to talk us through the process.  Got home about 1:00 and --you guessed it--spent the rest of the afternoon on the phone.  It took 3 separate phone calls to do it. When the dust settled, I still hadn't installed the little gadget.  Well, I plugged it in and the light started going off and on a very, very fast speed.  I know that USB stick do that but ever so much slower.  So I read the installation instructions.  Gobble-d-gook, and the best part of another hour.  I'm exhausted, but want to get a good sleep with the workshop tomorrow.  I think I may have to take this back, tomorrow, and hope they can help in the store.

Quiet weekend

David is watching his football games, which allows me to do pretty well what I want.  I've been playing quite a bit in the studio.  Yesterday I did a bit of painting with acrylics, using a method I saw on Design Matters TV.  I think it may have potential, and plan to buy a couple more cheap canvases today--maybe Dollarama or Walmart?

We drove by the two houses with the Halloween decorations Friday in the early afternoon, and the stuff was gone.  I imagine they took down the balloons as quickly as possible, maybe even Thursday evening, as I can see them being stolen pretty quickly or even vandalized.  Is that something to worry about in your area Beth?

The house is starting to get a little neglected again, which means more work in my future.  There is a meeting out in Selkirk tomorrow. It should be somewhat demanding, so that may be just enough to take all of my energy for the day.  I plan to cook extra chicken for supper tonight, so that the leftovers can be used tomorrow.  I've been trying to follow my food regimen quite closely.   My only sin over the past 5 days was two shortbread cookies that David was making. Then he put them all in a tin and hid them to age. Unfortunately, I maintained quite nicely but didn't loose even a 1/2 pound.  Obviously my energy output is too low, but I really don't know how to bump it up.  Maybe more housework?  Painting and sewing is pretty sedentary, when you think about it.

Well, sitting here isn't the answer, so best to get up and move.

Snow and wind

It started to sleet about 8 pm last evening and I had to make a mad dash to bring in all my decorations before it got worse outside. They are all now piled in a heap near the front door - a chore to complete today I guess but most are very damp or wet. My poor old standup witch is still erect and shivering out in the snow. I turned off her battery but it will be hard to manoeuvre her into the car again to go back to the storage unit.
I loved all the pictures of your neighbourhood Pati. My display could be called minimalist compared to them as they really went all out with blow ups etc. covering the entire lawn And I see using the lasted TV titles like Game of Thrones prompts as well. However, people liked my attempt to please - I was surprised that some kids commented on the effects... 'this is the scariest house I've been to...." And some parents complimented me on a ..."really nice show" Now it all has to be put away again for another year... ugh!
And we had a really nice day trip to the Casino Rama yesterday as well, and have booked for the bus already for the end of November. Got back home just before 6 pm and quickly got ready for the kids - I think we may have missed some because we had no lights on until then. Turnout was poor as expected and I have no idea this year how many as I did not even keep track of numbers as I have done in previous years. I just poured myself my goblet of wine and attended to the door between sips haha!
I do not have that little Google vignette anymore - haven't for a long time and I do not know why it is gone except that it now says Google Chrome when I log on - maybe that makes the difference??
As I sit here, I hear the snow plow going down our street again - terrible noise now to think that this may now be the way it is for a few months to come - I cannot bear to think of it actually.
So here's to Friday...hope your weekend will be fine and take care.