Busy in the studio

but still finding time to head out for coffee and then a  few minutes peace, while drinking it in the back yard.  We bought a new finch feeder on Friday, and filled it.  Not much action until yesterday, and then only sparrows, although I did see a little bird with a rosy breast, that might not have been a sparrow.  I know that birds are a very suspicious bunch, and imagine it will take them awhile to take the finch feeder seriously.  David continues to fill the larger feeder at least once a day, so today I mentioned that maybe we might not want to spend that much on bird food.  A medium ( 20lb?) bag costs almost $30.

Sunday morning, I couldn't live with my hair, so showed up at the walk-in hairdresser in Walmart right at 10:00 opening, and had most of it cut off.  Feels much better.

Yesterday, while I was out in the yard, the neighbour lady across the back called me over and offered me 3 cucumbers, and an handful of radishes.  Had one of the cucumbers, the radishes, a handful of cherry tomatoes and a bit of chicken for supper, and it was just fine.  But my weight was up this morning, and then when I read the paper, I came across a comic that I ended up cutting up and posting on the fridge.  Usually I send them to you, Beth, but this one I kept.  A chubby, disheveled fellow was sitting at the bar and says to the bartender, "Maybe I need to stop eating so many donuts".  The bartender asks "why?"  The fellow says "They seem to make my clothes shrink".  So today, it was back to phase #1.  This time, I bought sole rather than cod, by mistake.  Knowing it is a more delicate fish, and only takes seconds to cook, I "fried" it up in a frying pan with a tiny bit of Pam, rather than baking it.  A much nicer meal than the usual cod poached in tinfoil.  Yuck!

I have actually started finishing the needlework project that I found awhile ago.  All of the stitching was complete, and I had the rest of the supplies, so why not?  There are several components to the task, but all of those are now ready to be put together, slowly and painfully by hand.  I'll try to take a couple of pictures.

Nothing urgent on the calendar until Saturday, when I pick up my pieces from the gallery in Selkirk.  I'll be glad to get them safely home, as I need them for the show in Pinawa in September.

Unsettled weather over next few days

Evident today at home when I had to water the plants as they had been left a day or two and obviously were wilting from lack of water? As I was watering rain started to sprinkle - so I am watering the plants with the sun almost shining and the rain coming down and me with an umbrella in one hand and the hose in the other. Does this seem right? All the while Harry was at the BBQ doing hamburgers. Crazy.
We went to North Bay this morning to shop and I also went to the Bus terminal and purchased tickets for my trip. Dates are as previously discussed - leaving Sept 12 from North Bay for WPG and leaving Winnipeg for North Bay Sep 19.
Hazy skies and the smell of smoke evidence of the fires just to the west over Lake Nipissing - these fires are not under control and encroaching on Highway 69 to point it may be closed - one report said the visibility was 0%. The weather conditions and winds are not helping but hindering attempts to fight. 
In North Bay I was able to purchase an overblouse and three sleeveless under blouse tee shirts all of which will be perfect for the trip. I believe I am set for clothing (I'll rectify if after making a master list, this is not so) - so now I will plan the other articles/items I may need to bring. This should keep my mind focused until I can actually pack and get on the bus haha!
In meantime, life goes on and I have produce to take care of. The apples from my one really good tree are falling off - birds or just falling- so I have picked these smaller freefalls off the ground and hope to make an apple crisp. This tree produces larger greenish apples that are perfect to bake.   All for now. Take care

Made it home

David and Loren arrived home about 11:30 last night.  They both looked like they had a good time.  Not much talk about the football game, but this was David's first time at the new stadium, and there was lots of talk about the seats and elevators etc. Evidently the bus ride to and from, leaving the car at St. Vital Centre Park'n'Ride, was an experience for both of them.  David spoke of having to ride, packed in like sardines, standing up.  I can see David's concern, given his balance problems.  David was tired, as expected, and he's still sleeping, although I've been up for a couple of hours.

Yesterday we did our monthly shopping.   Missed a couple of things.  David likes to scan his Air Miles card at the grocery store, on days when there is a game on, as there is some sort of deal where names are drawn to win various things, whenever there is a touchdown ( I think that's how it works).  So we can pick up something today, and get the card scanned.  

Yesterday, knowing he would be going out in the evening, I tried to get the shopping organized so as to reduce the physical stress, as much as possible.  We were also doing a laundry, meaning that the beds linen would need to be changed.  This is a physically demanding job for both of us.

I had 7 different stores on the list, but had rated them according to how urgent the visit was.  We made it to 5 of them, and were still home by noon.  The last two, I would like to get to today.  One visit was #1 in terms of urgency, ahead of grocery stores.  That was Dollarlama--for new sunglasses.  Couldn't find mine anywhere, and wondered whether I had left them at Tim Horton's, after my massage Thursday.  Love my nice new ones, and the lady at the bank had a pair of scissors to cut the label off.  Until then I was wearing them with the label hanging down over my nose.  Isn't it amazing how appearances aren't as important when one gets older?
Unfortunately, I found the old glasses this morning, in the bedroom.  I'm not concerned, as they were getting scratched, and were ready for replacing, anyway.

We continue to be be blessed with lovely summer weather.  I'm getting out to the patio almost everyday.  For this, I am thankful.

40-14

Must have been a great night to watch the Bombers win their game against Argos at the Football stadium!  Celebration! Hope those in attendance had a fun time???

Trip to North Bay today

I went to North Bay today on my own to Willie's to celebrate his Birthday which is today. I made the customary and expected Cherry Cheese cake and spent some time with him and his entourage. It is a good day when I can spend a little time there to visit and have a conversation even though we speak on the phone frequently, a visit means a bit more for me.
I shopped a bit first and noticed as I exited my car at the first store, the smell of smoke in the air. I cannot smell it in Sundridge but it was very evident in North Bay. Too close for comfort and apparently many of the forest fires in the area are still out of control.
I had to water when I got home as the forecast rain has never materialized even though around supper the skies darkened and I could hear thunder, it quickly moved off and without any water to moisten the poor plants!  I should not really say "poor plants" as they are producing in excess right now. I have so many tomatoes now to do down, and I have cereal covered with a ton of raspberries every morning. Thankful to Harry for picking the raspberries as I am not venturing into the patch at all and I can see them in my morning walkabout red and juicy and jumping out at me haha!
Time to close up ......take care.

Happy Anniversary

July 25, 2003 Cathy and Jim were married in a ceremony on their grounds joined by many family and friends. Now 15 years later, we celebrate their Anniversary with them  Happy days to you both. XX

Now there's a concept!

Incestuous Budgies?!?

I'm exhausted!  Two days of excitement, trips downtown, and lots of walking--to say nothing of the emotional high of actually seeing world renowned art.  A day to be remembered, and the thrill of a lifetime.  The exhibit was larger than I had expected, and I had to sit down for a few minutes, several times.  We also parked on Memorial Blvd, opposite Memorial park, and it was a bit of a hike to the Art Gallery. This lack of endurance was a bit of a surprise to me, and not a pleasant one.  Not sure how to deal with it.  Obviously I need to increase my physical activity level, without hurting my knees or compromising my back.  

Needless to say, there hasn't been much going on at home over the past couple of days.  Meals have been simple, and housework non-existant  However, this morning, before I went out, David was busy tidying the garage, trying to find a little more room for the car.  I'm still a little nervous backing the car out, and that makes him nervous when I back the car out.  Hehe!  Just as Gail arrived to pick me up, he hurt his head somehow, and came in with blood all over his forehead.  We got him cleaned up, and found a fairly small lesion under all the blood.  It looks worse than it is, but I'm sure he's going to have a nasty bruise, as well.

So, all in all, I don't think either of us is up to much this evening.

It's raining!

Finally we have some rain that will make a difference - at least I do not have to use the hose to water.
We went to Huntsville today and ran into torrential rains and thunder and lightening. Even the Metro store where we shopped had buckets all over the store to catch the dripping water leaking from the roof.  So I felt for sure it would be the same at home and even worried a little about water accumulating at the front. As we drove further North it became dryer and finally stone dry here. Not a drop had fallen. So it was business as usual until about 4 pm when the sky darkened and the rain fell.....Yeah! It may not last but it is rain. It should also help with the forest fires to the West of us - unless lightening starts more.
I take the car to the Dealership tomorrow to have the strut replaced. I got a call a few days ago to say the part was in. I expect this bill shall be a bit high but will have to deal with it.
Update on the birds: my little chick is becoming so beautiful - with her feathers coming in she is filling out nicely and shows signs of a gorgeous teal colouration which I favour.  The first pair from which my chick was hatched and then abandoned, have already laid two new fresh eggs - so the beat goes on, the beat goes on...lets all sing along!.  Take care

The Bay

It is sad to think of that majestic store - once a favourite haunt and destination of mine, could be in such poor shape. But then I was just as sad when they tore down Eatons store. How many trips did I make to Eatons and to the annex to order catalogue cloths and try them on. But were there not some attempts being made to revitalize The Bay. I thought I had read it at some time in the Free Press?  Still glad that on one of my trips to Winnipeg that I visited The Paddle Wheel just before they closed it up completely.
No relief in the hot and humid. We had only a sputtering of rain - just enough to make it really humid again after a few days of relief.  I am working in the yard regardless and wearing my rubber boots which can be clumsy and hot but protect me in encountering the snakes that Harry says are still accumulating around the raspberry patch. Dehydrating herbs now as well as garlic from the garden. Harvesting the garlic can be a pain but Harry seems to be taking it in slow steps - as much as he can manage at a time anyway - which makes it easier for me. 
Just sent a message to my friend Sue who leaves tomorrow for a trip to BC and a cruise up the Inner Channel - all arranged by her two daughters as a Birthday gift. They have made all the arrangements and so they shall all enjoy a Mother/Daughter adventure. Nice.
Time for some cereal covered with fresh raspberries ...yum. Enjoy your visit to the Gallery Pati. Sounds interesting.

A non-adventure--sort of

Today Gail and I went downtown to visit the wonderful exhibit of Expressionist paintings at the Winnipeg Art Gallery, only to find the gallery isn't open Mondays.  We'll try again tomorrow.  But, we parked in the Bay parkade.  The parkade was under repair, as it has often been over the years.  The only public parking was on the top floor, and getting there was tricky, as Gail had brought her big van.  We got there and then went to enter the store, although there were no clear directions on how we might do that.  We found ourselves on the second floor, just outside the ladies washroom, which used to be one of the best ladies room in the the city.  Not any more.

 We survived, and then found ourselves in the furniture department.  On to the elevator, as the escalator was blocked off.  Not sure if we were going to make it down the first floor, given the poor condition of the elevator itself, and the weird noises it made.  On the first floor we found clothing, and every bit of it appeared to be on "Final Clearance".  Being female, we had to check it out.  Old lady clothes.  Your grandmother's clothes.

The building is very run down.  So very sad to see.  After walking to the Art Gallery and back, we returned to the car, and left.  We had spent only about 20 minutes in the parkade, but had to pay $4.00 for the privilege.  We both agreed to see if we could find alternative parking tomorrow.  At least we had a fair bit of time to spend over coffee.

Thinking that I would be tied up all afternoon, David and I had chosen our supper menu very carefully, but that just means that, maybe, I get to spend a little more time in.the studio this afternoon, since we just about killed ourselves doing all that housework. yesterday,

Fires

We've heard a lot on the news about fires in Ontario, but not as much about Manitoba, although I believe there are a couple they're worried about here.  I was thinking about you when I hear they were so close to you.

Today was mostly spent working in the kitchen.  I've been so busy in the studio lately, that it's been badly neglected.  I started by cleaning the fridge.  With the garbage going out tonight, for pick up early tomorrow morning, it was a good time.  Now that's done, a couple of cupboards have been deep cleaned, and all the floor washed, including the back foyer, and stairs.  I was very proud of myself with the two cupboards.  Both of them are low and deep, and have pipes or wires running through the back of them, making it very hard to clean in corners etc.  I figured out that if I crumpled up a wet Swiffer floor sheet, and held it with my long handled reacher, I could get around the pipes and wires, while sitting in a chair.  Worked well.  The carpet that we have in the back foyer is getting badly stained, especially on the reverse side.   We just looked at it, vacuumed it, swept the back and put it back down on the floor.

Then it was time to head out to pick up a prescription at Walmart, and head for Starbucks.  By the time we got home the clouds had rolled in and the wind had come up.  No rain though, so I drank my coffee in the back yard.  There were two smaller rabbits eating grass at the foot of the tree, just a few feet away from me.  They were aware of me, but not bothered until the fellow next door dumped a bag in his garbage bin.  He was behind them and they both headed straight for me, stopped for a second to look at me, when they were a couple of feet away, and then just kept going straight--right over my feet and across the yard.  Guess they really don't see either of us as a threat.  The birds actually chastise David until he puts out more food for them.

Now, we're both pretty tired and will probably veg out in front of the tv.  There are two hours of Antique Road Show this evening.  Good enough for me.

Yes, I remember it well....

That was quite a day for you Pati and I had wished I could help you but the judging was yours. I kept myself busy and all in all a very interesting day. You were exhausted because of the weather, and the duration and also because of keeping your "cool and calm" attitude throughout the entire process. I admired you for your endurance, but we sure were glad to drive away that night, weren't we!
Some may describe my little chick as "scruffy", which is a good word. Here is what my printed literature wrote: ....the budgie chick resembles an unkempt miniature dinosaur, with a pleasingly ugly mix of down and pin feathers, and a lot of the character and curiosity that will stay with it throughout its life. I think that describes this little chick perfectly. The other chicks we have seen through hatching and care and growing, are mostly all very beautiful and each truly has a distinct colouration and character.
Just waiting for the rain to come as promised in the forecast. Today rain should start any minute and rain should come off and on over the next two days. This is what we need. The forest fires are ever so close to us in this area with the French River area and Killarney Prov Park been evacuated and some areas in southern area of Sudbury being put on alert. It is another bad year for these parts as it is in BC by all the news reports I am hearing.  What is the status in Manitoba now?
I am about to do something with the accumulating tomatoes sitting on the counter and Harry is out right now to pick again. This will be a daily process I guess as things start to ripen wildly. Take care.

Springfield Agricultural Fair

This morning we were off to Dugald for the Springfield Agricultural Fair.  Beth, this is the same event as you and I went to when you visited a few years ago.  The newer fibre group I belong to, had their current exhibition up within the display area, and needed someone to sit in it, and give out information.  Thank Goodness it wasn't as hot as that day we spent there.  This time we were only there for two hours, not 13,  and, I was able to get something to drink.  It sure brought back memories though.  

There was a large exhibit of bee keeping and honey making.  I found some honey and/or beeswax based, hand cream there.  It was unscented, and didn't leave my hands all greasy, so we bought a jar.

I sure was tired--after two hours of "performance art", and had a nap, but now I'm ready to head for the studio, Diet Dr. Pepper in hand.  Tonight is my tv night, but David is watching a football game this afternoon, so I may not have to watch my shows in the basement.  There is a lot of hand sewing piling up, so I should be able to keep busy while watching.

So Friday has come?

For me, idle thoughts and insignificant tidbits they are NOT as I look forward to all messages and read them several times enjoying  the communication so much. We all have such different lives it is a real treat to hear all about another's events, happenings, or thoughts, or even another's little bit of venting/whining, right?
The weather is still hot - really hot today. There was heavy smoke reported over North Bay yesterday and a bit of a check on the internet stated the cause was from fires to the west around Parry Sound area. I did not notice any disturbances here which is surprising but then it all depends on the wind direction I guess.
With one exception of walking to the Bank and Lottery store this afternoon, I was in the yard working from 7 am to 5:30 pm. I accomplished a great deal and it made me feel good to accomplish what I did, but I have to admit I am totally bushed! I should have a good sleep, shouldn't I?  I wore my big rubber boots all day weeding in the beds - I am still a bit taken aback to know there are snakes "in them there beds". At least if I encountered one, my boots would give me some protection from being totally frightened. Or maybe not? Harry has told me he saw one twice while picking the raspberries so I have to believe him.
I am backing off of the many feedings to the little budgie chick as it seems not to be interested now and has been observed to be foraging well in the cage.I shall offer her some before bed to be sure but last night I did not feed her from 6 pm until this morning at 5 am and even then she hesitated to take much. She is the weirdest looking little chick of any that have been hatched under our watch but she has character and personality and I give her credit for surviving her abandonment.  I have a picture of her and if I can I shall attach it to an email. 
So for now I shall bide you goodnight. Have a nice weekend.  Take care.

Idle thoughts, and insignificant tidbits

So glad to hear that you got out to visit, Beth.  These short stimulating interactions keep me going.

Tuesday a couple of my stitching friends and I visited Kathy, a long term hand stitcher, and member of the Embroiderers' Guild.  She lives quite close to me.  I'm not sure if her building is a co-op, or condo, but she certainly has a nice home, and well set up for someone who uses a walker.  She had a sort of plate rail that ran all around her living room, but with framed embroideries, rather than plates.  We sat down, and she served us ice tea, and shortly after, I knocked over my tea allover the chair I was in, my purse and fabric bag, and her floor.  It took three of us about 20 minutes to clean it all up.  Because of the walker, she has laminate floor, Thank Goodness. That event took the formality out of the visit.  Part of the time was spent reminiscing about stitchers we had known, many since passed on, and the pleasure they brought to our lives.  Obviously we're all getting older

Seeing all of her finished embroideries brought back to me the great pleasure I always found in hand stitching, and an itch to try it again.  A current problem with that is my lack of a thimble.  Last time I took my antique thimble to  the jeweler to have a hole fixed, he told me that the 180 year old gold was too fragile to fix again.  I can use it for small jobs, but avoid using it too often.  I had another one that I bought years ago from an English vendor, at a trade show.  We don't know what happened to it, but have suspicion that it fell in the garbage, and is long gone. Yesterday, I saw an ad on The Quilt Show, for thimbles.  The shape looked workable, and they had it in XS.  I ordered one.  Not cheap, especially with exchange and shipping.  I also remember the hassle you had, Beth with customs.  I sure hope it fits.

I've given away most of my stitching supplies, but still have embroidery floss, and a box of various silk threads.  I've also kept one project, tucked away for several years now.  I've brought it out and fondles it a few times, but could never bring myself to get rid of it.  Thinking about it, not really doing anything-yet.

I'm pissed!  Somehow, we ran out of boneless chicken breasts.  This is the meat we eat most often, thus, a crisis.  So Monday we went shopping and bought more, paying a healthy price for them--almost $60 for 16 breasts c/w filet, i.e. 10 meals/20 servings.  Yesterday, we found them on sale at a different store for the cheapest price I've see in years--$25 for 14 breasts c/w filet, i.e. 9 meals/18 servings.  That was at $3.98/lb.  I get excited when they come in a $4.88/lb. While we were out we also stopped a The Bulk Barn, ( Seniors' Discount day)and along with my nuts, I got two Panda Licorice bars.  I have them tucked away for the right time as well.

After shopping, I spent quite a bit of time reading in the garden.  In the end the ants won.  I sure wish I could afford to have Poulin's out again, but I've got to pay for that darn thimble.

And I think of Cathy, seeing the ocean and mountains, neither of which am I ever likely to see again.

Ah, cooler weather at last

Much better - can feel the breeze cooling down things now - house may need a good blow out but it is pleasant to be outside.
I planned two outings today 1) neighbour Ruth's 80th birthday and 2) visit to Daisy's.  I baked some cupcakes yesterday and iced them this morning - a tray to take to each outing. Headed over to Ruth's at about 930 and found her in her barn feeding her rabbits - surprise for Ruth "I didn't know you knew it was my Birthday" she said. At the same time another friend entered carrying a bouquet of flowers. This was the lady named Hilda who takes care of the rabbits when Ruth and Gerd are away except for that 10 days last Fall when I took over. So we all went inside where Gerd had the coffee on, and in between two telephone calls - one from her sister in Holland, and one from her sister in Elliot Lake, On we sat at the table and enjoyed conversation and a strawberry flange cake with whip cream. Ruth had made it yesterday hoping there would be guests to come. She was 'anticipating" right! How I enjoyed my time. It was good - short lived - but refreshing. This lady Hilda also has budgie birds and expressed an interest in acquiring two males if we would get rid of them. I said I would have to ask Harry which I did and did not get any answer really. Oh well.....
After lunch and some garden work, I then headed over to Daisy's about 1:30 pm - no one home! The neighbour who was outside in her garden told me they had gone to Daisy's cabin in the bush close to Aunt Evelyn's cottages on Eagle Lake. Oh! ....So I came back home with my cupcakes and probably will wait to call them until tomorrow and see how our signals got crossed and maybe arrange for another visit. Or maybe I should eat the cupcakes haha!
Since then I have done the watering outside, and sat on a chair under the umbrella with a cup of Honey Bush tea to enjoy, and now blogging before I get the birds to bed, and also myself.  Ain't life grand?
Right now though, I am thinking of Cathy and Jim travelling back home today after a wonderful vacation in BC. Probably anxious to get home and get some sleep? Lets hear all about it, eh?
Bye for now....

Flash Boom boom !

I was out watering this afternoon when the forecast "strong thunderstorm" started to roll in - first with loud noises and then with darkness and then bolts of light and then the skies opened up- I mean really opened up! Needless to say I went from watering with a hose outside, to pumping the water away at the front.  So heavy was the rain that the barrels filled and overflowed and tumbled down the sidewalk at the side and pooled at the front window. Same old scenario I have dealt with for years even after getting new eavestroughs. The eavestroughs solved one problem, but the flow of water down the sidewalk is another new problem.  But, I did not have to finish watering for today.
Pati I am so happy to see your new cloths and thank you for the pictures.The blue denim dress with matching shoes is very, very nice and looks very, very nice on you. I sure hope you have worn it out - perhaps to the Starbucks, or over to the Mall? And you are right, the beautiful flowers on the tshirt catches your eye and i did not even notice the horizontal strips. I love the overshirt - it is what I would buy and wear and looks good with the shorts. You made some fine choices with your purchases and I know you are well pleased.
I did not mention that on Saturday I was with the Geek Squad again for another marathon computer session - this time from 0830 am to 2 pm.  Since the last session on June 26 I was noticing frequent red flags in lower right corner indicating firewalls down and spyware etc not protected. Since I knew I might be awhile with the computer in use with the Squad, I choose to connect with them just after Harry left home for garage sales on Saturday morning, thinking I would be done by the time he came home. Not so.....They had to uninstall the Bitdefender Upgrade and start to reinstall it. The first time two weeks ago, it took 2 hours to download. So I waited and when it had downloaded and they had remote control of the computer, something went wrong and I watched as they started to reinstall it again. I typed in my little box asking what was going on? When I was told they had to reinstall I become quite anxious knowing that this was going to take way longer. Sure enough Harry came home at 1130 am and of course no access to computer for him. I was so happy when finally they were done at 2 pm and we could get back to normal. There are a few changes to appearance and other stuff (eg seems to take about 10 - 15 min to shut down now) but so far I have not seen the red flags pop up again - yet. I am so uncomfortable with having to deal with issues but fortunate that I pay monthly for the help I can get. It is worth it for me.
Today was supposed to be the last day of high temps and high humidity -the rain cooled it down a bit and so hoping that by tomorrow we shall have some better manageable weather.
I took the car to the dealer for service (oil change) on Thursday and it was time for inspection and brake inspection so I said go ahead - I got a ride home after leaving the car at 8 am. By 1:30pm I had not heard so took the chance and walked back to the Garage (took about 15 minutes of brisk walking down the highway - in hot and humid weather conditions at that!!) Seems they had found some issues (don't they always?) The brake pads needed to be changed and a front strut was leaking and had to be ordered to be replaced.  I still have to take it back once that arrives to be fixed. So, I ended up with a bigger bill than I thought (good old plastic to the rescue) and i still have another hefty bill to come since the strut is no longer under warranty (over 60,000 km on the car) And come next May I turn the car in for a newer lease. Oh boy...
Better sign off for now and feed the animals. By the way I just poured myself a wee shot of sherry to warm my innards and get me through the rest of the day. I already had my comfort cup of tea - I guess that wasn't enough haha!   Bye for now......

In response to popular demand

A quick glance at the new clothes.

Here is the light cotton blue dress, complete with the blue shoes I had hidden at the back of my closet--for about 8 years.  I must have known then that I would be buying this blue dress.

Here are the shorts, and the blue over blouse.  The blue polo shirt is under the over blouse, and there is a white one in exactly the same style.  I figured everyone knows what white looks like, so didn't take a picture.

Here is the top that I like the most.  It's close to the style I feel most comfortable with, but the horizontal stripes are usually something I would avoid.  Love the flowers, and I think they take the eyes away from the stripes.  Unfortunately my "muffin top" shows with this top, but it's not like I can cut it off or hide it, so I live with it.

Moving my angst over here

Most of my navel gazing has been studio related and posted on the other blog, but what I'm obsessing over right now is much more personal.  Lately, I've been hating my body, mainly because I see the signs of aging, and the negative signs of weight loss. At my age you loose the fat, but not the skin.  I think I could almost take flight with the "bat wings" I have.  The choices I make are mainly to minimize the appearance of those changes, i.e, long sleeves, long pants, darker colours.  The stores where I shop mainly cater to either larger or older women, and the clothing available often features the longer sleeves and darker colours.  Secondly, the last time I had my hair coloured and cut, both jobs were done poorly.  The poor colour I have to live with for awhile, but I am looking for a new hairdresser, and plan to get it cut again fairly soon.

At some point I need to come to terms with the changes I see--they're not going to go away.  The clothes I bought yesterday may be the first steps in accepting who I have become.  Other than the muu-muus I used to wear around the house, I haven't owned a dress or skirt in close to 30 years.  I even wore a dressy pant outfit to Amber's wedding.  It's been years since I wore shorts.  I think I bought a pair the first time I went to Cuba--in 2005.

So, now, I have to actually wear the things I bought.  The shorts will be the easiest.  But, they will look funny with the large, black walking shoes I wear.  Egad!  What am I going to put on my feet? 

I know this is really a "tempest in a teapot", and not something most people worry about.  But I have wept over this issue over the last few months, and this first step will be the hardest.

Out Again

Beth, your comments stirred me to action.  Possibly because they echoed the comments the physio made yesterday, when he asked if I didn't own a pair  of shorts.

So, early this morning, we were off to St. Vital Centre, and the Bay.  In the past this is where I've bought my muu-muus.  I loved wearing them, but had figured that they were no longer sold there, or anywhere, and I was right.  But the store was in the middle of a "store wide clearance sale".  I found many things to try on, but ended up buying a pair of shorts, a pull-over knit shirt, that I like very much, and a blue denim-look  dress, just below knee length. All of these were on sale. I also bought a bundle of socks, which had also been on my shopping list.  They weren't on sale, but I still got 6 pair at just over $4 each.  They are a brand I really like, and can only get at the Bay

Then, David wanted to stop in Walmart to try to find the slippers he couldn't find in our trip to the local one yesterday. He found them, but not in his size. However, in our search, I found two pullover Polo-type shirts and an over blouse--all Alia brand, which is what I wore all the years I worked.  All three came to less than $30.00.  The best thing about my purchases is that they will all fit nicely into my current wardrobe.  I've made the mistake in the past of buying something I loved, only to find that there was nothing else, that I had, to coordinate it with.

But now we're home for the day.  Yesterday, I finished a third charity quilt top, complete with fabric cut for binding.  Today, I hope to start a fourth one, while monitoring my new clothes being washed.  All of them can go in the dryer. Hallelujah!  Once they are all  ready to go, I can use an assembly line process to get them sandwiched, ready for quilting.  I had hoped to have 6 finished by the end of August, and this will give me 5, with the basic cutting for several more also done.

And for supper tonight, I've taken a package of Daddy's ribs out of the freezer.  Always nice to have something handy, and not have to sweat over deciding what to serve.

In and cool?

Instead of "out and about" its a good idea to stay "in and cool". Lucky you to have a/c in these weather conditions. I still use the ceiling fans which helps a bit. But I must go outside. This morning I must water - the promised rain came in the middle of the night and turned out to be only a light, short lived sprinkle. I had depended on a bit more to relieve the constant dryness and need to water regularly. In spite of this weather though, it is surprising how well the plants are growing and producing. Yes, I must step up my consumption of tomatoes as they are starting to pile up on the kitchen counter haha!
Pati I would not be able to survive if I did not have the shorts and light shirts to wear outside. Even in the house I have to remove my socks and run barefoot to keep cool. That's why I mentioned long ago about wanting to make a skirt - so much more air flow down under with a skirt or moo moo - of course never got further than washing the fabric but the idea was good haha!
I have been watching my roses closely and patiently waiting for the little buds to open - the deep red rose is just about to open and if i went out right now (early) I would probably see a gorgeous rose.They do not last long but i surely do like them. I have four large roses ( two red and one white and one unknown as it has been hidden in the raspberry patch until i discovered it and cleared around it for more light) and this spring the lady from the lake gave me three miniature red roses which have bloomed long ago but are now growing and thriving beautifully in my little garden at the back. Small little pleasures that make me happy!
Thinking about you Cathy and sure that you are having a good time. Enjoy every minute and when you get home we shall look forward to hearing from you.
On with the weekend.....lots to do .....stay cool.....Bye for now

Out and about

Yesterday evening was the opening reception for the show in Selkirk where two of my pieces are for this month.  A very nice event, with music, and lots of people.  It was a pleasure chatting with people, but when the loud music started, we left.  Since it was still early, we proceeded to South Beach Casino.  It's been a very long time since we were last there, and I was interested in what changes there might have been, and there've been quite a few.  We stayed there for a bit, but wanted to be off the highway by dark, so headed home after a short time.

This morning, I have a physio appointment, and the mail came early, with a bit of a surprise.  We had submitted an amendment to David's income tax return, based on changes to our medical expenses, and, finally, there was the assessment notice. The amendment had been delivered, by hand, in mid-March, and we were starting to wonder if we would ever get any sort of response!  But now there is a little bit more money in the bank.  And David explained how he wants to spend it.  He wants new clothes, and he knows exactly what that will be.  Usually, I have to drag him kicking and screaming into menswear stores, but it looks like we're going shopping, right after my physio appointment.

After talking to my doctor on Wednesday, I've decided that this will be the last physio appointment.  Certainly the doctor doesn't feel I need to go anymore.  The biggest concern had been that I might develop "frozen shoulder", as many older women do.  I have good range of movement, with the exception of a slight reduction in external rotation, which could well be a relic from when I broke the shoulder several years ago.  Certainly it's not a movement that is used often, and only rarely in the outer range.  My concern is the amount of pain I'm experiencing after the physio treatments, often lasting for more than 48 hours, and interfering with my driving.

p.s. I talked to the physio, and he told me that it isn't my range of movement he's worried about, but rather, I have a "tendonopathy". Not a word I've ever heard of.  As well, he says I have strength issues.  So, we agreed that I would work on my own at home, and go back to see him in a month.  But, I did book an appointment for a massage.

p.p.s. We left here about 12:30, and have just been home a few minutes.  Five different stops, and we're both exhausted.  I mean really beat with the heat--humidex of 46.  But we did get David two pair of pants. One of them is on order, but he brought the other home with him.

I honestly can't see anything in our immediate future except vegging out in the a/c.  I half wish I owned a dress, or a pair of shorts.  But I put on the bottom half of an old bathing suit, and feel much better for it.

Long walk in store?

This morning I take the car to service at the Dealer - oil change and a check of the heater function is the order. Usually I just take a book and stay to wait, but since I have this little birdie who depends on me to feed her I shall have to walk home and then walk back to pick the car up when done.  I have done this frequently but not of late - it is not really far once you get rolling along the highway - it's just the thought in this weather. if i really wanted to i could have them drive me home and then pick me up - they have done this before but I don't think that is necessary.  Then i shall have to check for watering. i did it in the afternoon yesterday but it was so dry - perhaps a morning water would be in order?
The food dehydrator is in full force doing garlic scapes, green onions, and now fruit such as mangoes. I have tomatoes to manage this morning as well. And the darn bananas have ripened so I would like to make a batch of muffins - so I can eat them haha!
I just checked my lottery tickets and as usual, nothing for me in big numbers but a free play and those I'll take every time since they seem to be what I am going to win. I still dream big, though haha!
I am hearing about several options for Bus transportation to take over the soon defunct Greyhound into Manitoba. One is based in Thunder Bay and already does trips to Winnipeg - it's called Casper Transportation so I am going to check it out - just for fun!  And then I was thinking about the end terminal for Greyhound and turnaround - likely be Kenora? but how about the Manitoba border Info centre? Perhaps they will have to build a nice new terminal so that all the passengers can get kicked off there and have to walk to Winnipeg. I know I am being factitious but the whole situation have bothered me. Perhaps because I have always known that the Bus was an option for me. I should not worry about things not in my control, right?
Another day so here we go.....Bye for now..

Cathy and Jim

Happy travels to you both as you depart today on your adventure to Vancouver Island and the Birthday celebration and family reunion. So much fun to be had, and memories to bring back. Have a wonderful trip. Will be thinking about you!

Dreams dashed?

I wonder now, with the announcement of no Greyhound Bus service west of the Ontario border, how I shall ever dream of coming again to Winnipeg?  It seems my concerns though, may be totally insignificant compared to how disruptive it will really be for others who depend on such services as their only means of transportation such as for medical appointments etc, and access from rural, isolated areas. It just seems such a shame that such services that become for us as expected, can be snuffed out so randomly. It may be that private services will pick up now, but you can bet the prices will be adjusted upward accordingly. 
Just another change in our lives that we need to accept I guess.  So on with the day......

Hot-"nuff said

Yesterday the humidex was 46.  We're just staying inside, and amusing ourselves as best we can.  But I still venture out for my coffee, early in the morning. Late, this after noon David went for a bike ride. Fell and ended up with a nasty case of road rash, on his left elbow.  He's been trying to get around the block once a day.  I wish I could join him, but I just don't have the range of motion in the left knee.  This evening he was out watering, and discovered buds on the second of our Hydrangeas.  They have been very late to bloom this year, and we lost one from winter kill.

Today I started a charity quilt.  I did the math, and had figured out quite closely, how many pieces to sew together, but by the time I had all the pieces together, there were enough for two full quilts.  Not sure how that happened. I have a small hand beading project I'm working on, but wanted to use the machine a bit.  When I'm doing the donkey work on the machine my mind can sometimes come up with new art projects.  ( weren't we talking about that a couple of postings ago?) I have the very basic beginnings of three reliquaries, with fabric, beads, and various embellishments tucked away, but unless I can come up with a starting point, it's no use trying to force it by starting.  I learned that lesson quite awhile ago.  

The physio exercises, for my left shoulder, are going well, but leave both my back and right arm sore.  Last time I was there, he told me not to push it, so I'm not.

It's that time of the year when we start to eat out of the freezer, so as to prepare for fall sales.  So, tomorrow evening we are eating steak.  A real treat, but we have found the last few years that the amount of things like meat, that we eat, is much smaller than it used to be.  That's okay.  There is no way we could afford to eat the amount of beef that we used to.

Sunday evening and all is well?

Still hot and sunny. Just back in from watering the entire yard - takes a long time but you have to be sure to get everything, and everything is so dry. But already have bowls of tomatoes on the counter and I still separately need to pick the spinach and salad growing out there. Tomorrow i wish to pick the red currants as they are ripe on the one tree and although I did not intend to use them up this year, I could not resist seeing the beautiful ripe berries calling to me.
And I am very busy with the birds - now have the second young chick in the small cage as the parents seem to be attacking him - the same as they did with the chicks from the last batch. I have to watch the babies closely to be sure they are eating OK and that they don't go after each other? I am at q 4 hourly feedings but sometimes it is every three or three /half hours apart. During the night I leave from midnight until about 5 or 6 am. Last night Harry woke me up at 3;30 am to say "don't you have to feed the bird". I was not amused haha!
Good news - I got the tea I ordered - two boxes purchased and the local Village Bins Store owner says she can order it anytime so I do not have to worry about not finding it, or having to stock up. I find the flavour different but pleasing Stash Chamomile Nights - caffeine free herbal tea.
Time for bed - that means many night time chores to complete before I actually get into bed but it goes with the territory. And I must be sure to get up for the last bird feeding at around midnight.
Hope all is well with you folks.  Keep smiling....XX

a little catch-up

Yesterday was absolutely beautiful.  The nicest summer day we've had this year.  We spent a good portion of the day sitting outside and reading, or eating meals.  The other thing we did (there's that "Royal we" again) was cut up a huge branch that fell from our tree with the nasty storm that went through here the other night.  This is the largest branch that has ever come down.  this sort of thing is one of the hazards of living under an American Elm, but we treasure that tree, and sometimes, jokingly say that we "bought a tree, and it came with a house".  I hope you can see it in the picture.  David ended up using his Skill saw on the larger portions of it.

Today is almost as nice, but is quite windy, and we ended up moving back into the house.

Cathy, thinking of you flying out to BC, brought back the memory of when we picked you and Jim up at the airport in Victoria.  ( I guess the airport is actually in Sidney)  Then we had to get you onto the Mill Bay ferry for your trek North, when you went out for a family reunion.  How many years ago was that?  So nice when family stays close over the years, and over the miles.  Where do you fly into this time?  As we know, anticipation is a huge part of any trip like this, and you have two sisters anticipating along with you.

Only 3 hours more......

....and my holidays start.   I'm not packed yet, but I do have a suitcase.  Rrain had one in the basement full of old clothes so I just put the clothes into my old suitcase and took hers. We figured it would be worth paying the extra and take a suitcase than trying to fit everything into a small carry-on. I think our medication alone would fill one!  We didn't get a gift for Glenda, but we've been in communication with some of the rest of the family and are talking about all going in together and getting something bigger.  Chris (her son) suggested a weekend in Victoria.  We are only going to be there for a week (arrive late Wednesday and leave very (5am) early the next Wednesday.  Tim (Jim's son) and his family are arriving on Friday.  Glenda's sons and families, and I think Jean's son are coming on the ferry on Saturday.  Jean gets there on Tuesday.  Originally she told Jim she was leaving on Wednesday, so he booked the same flight and then she realized it was Tuesday.  Glenda and Pete are going to be making a lot of trips to Comox to pick people up.  I think Tim's family might need more than one car.  Of course I expect the garden to start to ripen while we are gone.  There are already Saskatoons ready to pick and the beans shouldn't be much longer.  I was going to go home and do laundry after work tonight but we are under a heat warning so it might be too hot in the house to do laundry.  Though it is going to be even hotter tomorrow (humidex over 40)  I will try to take some pictures while I am gone.  Not sure if we will travel around much with so many people there but we will try.  I remember some really nice spots from the last time we were there.

I am tiring of this heat wave

I shall be very glad when we get the promised break in this relentless heat we are experiencing. it starts to play on your nerves a bit. When i water I have taken to spraying myself with the hose as well and sucking up sips of water in the palm of my hand.  Now doesn't that sound like our childhood days - great fun!
Pati your day was very busy and 'exciting" as you described it but as long as you see results and by the sounds of all the full and extensive assessments and tests done you must soon be able to discuss the next steps? I am thinking of you all along the way. Just like Dave is right there with you - so am I.  Except that i do not get to enjoy a Starbucks with you, boo hoo!
Now Cathy tell me if you are able to take pictures on your vacation? I would love to see some of your adventure. I'm counting the days with you now and so hope your weather will cooperate. Who is minding the "farm" while you are away? 
So another day starts again so I'll take my coffee and have a bit of breakfast now and then get on with it. My baby chick is thriving under my constant care and attention so I am hoping for the best - I have become very fond of the little gaffer.  Bye for now

Busy day

This morning was my appointment with the Pan Am Clinic, following referral from Victoria Urgent Care.  This is quite the operation!  We went into total chaos, as far as I could see.  We got sorted out via three separate interviews in reception, and two trips through the waiting area.  After the third interview we were shuffled off to a different waiting area.  Also after the third interview, we found the chaos somewhat reduced in the reception area, and by the time we left, all was calm.  I was seen and examined by a physician.  One of the best Range of Motion and strength exams I've ever seen.  He then ordered four xrays.  Then back to the waiting area, until he could see us again.  This resulted in a referral for outpatient physiotherapy.  So we came home, had a quick lunch, and decided that I would go and try to find a physiotherapist right away, before coming back home for a nap.

I had remembered seeing a new Physio clinic in a small new mall by the Tim Horton's and we tried there, rather than the clinic I've been to before, way out by St. Vital Centre.  I was impressed.  The receptionist took all my info, and the written referral from Pan Am, and then asked if I would like an appointment or maybe, would I like to to be seen right away.  So I've just got home from a very thorough assessment and a full initial treatment, for which they will direct bill Blue Cross and for which we will be fully covered.  That was a surprise for me!  I have to wonder if Blue Cross has increased their coverage in response to the government's stop of covering outpatient physio in hospitals.

Anyway, that's enough excitement for one day.  Now I need that nap, and from the look of him so does David, who was with me all the way.

Still nice and hot in these parts...

Trying to manage this heat still although I must say without that intense humidity we experienced over the weekend it is better. When I took the dog out early for his first weewee I was so pleasantly surprised as it felt coll and with a slight breeze very nice. Now the sun has done its thing already and it is hot out again. The worst is inside the house where i shall probably not get it aired out and cool until there is a dramatic change in the temperatures.
We went to Huntsville this morning ( Tuesday haha!) and dropped off some garlic scape's at brother in laws and then did a quick shopping. I entered the TD Bank to do some banking and there was a line up to the door! So this turned out NOT to be a quick trip but the folks in the line were all pleasant and joking so it wasn't too bad to wait my turn. I had some coins rolled to turn into cash and usually people look poorly on this - taking up their time perhaps ?- but when you have them all rolled and taped and labeled with account and elastic together as to type eg toonies, loonies etc the process goes quickly.
The rush this morning was that I had to get back home though as for the last two days I have been hand feeding one of the chicks just almost three weeks old but who seems to have been shunned by the parents. it was not thriving and I had been observing it for a bit until i finally removed it from the nesting cage and put it into a smaller cage I had and started q2hourly feedings. I cut it back to q4hourly over night and will see how he responds today. the literature I am reading suggests I should be able to cut out feedings from midnight to 6 am but since he was in poor shape and is only now responding nicely i want to make sure he is getting enough from the formula feedings i am giving. So i am tired - up for night feedings - how did we do this with the kids??
So on with the week - the shopping is done, and the bills are paid, and I only have to go over to the Lottery store to satisfy that "need" and since it has been many days since the garden has been tended - the odd watering here and there only, i expect that shall be high on the To Do list.  I am really liking you new work Pati that you posted on the Mouse Factory Blog. What interests me is your thought process in preparation - you had mentioned about the brain piece you had in mind and here I see it materialize from thought to cloth and FMQ and now for embellishments, and the special "words" you have created including the word rejoice - I think we should all rejoice! Very nice. 
Are you getting packed yet Cathy. I am so exited for you - can you imagine if i were the one going somewhere - there would be dancing in the streets  haha!   Bye for now.

Not too much action around here.

Yesterday and today, we've spent time watching the Robins and Blue Jays duking it out over the cherries that we left in the bush.  There's always a bit of action in the yard.  The neighbours have the rabbit trap out again.  Can't say I blame them as they usually have a very nice vegetable garden, and spend a lot of time looking after it.

I did want my coffee today.  I'm trying to get back in my diet routine, starting with phase one, and that one cup of coffee per day is my incentive to stick to the straight and narrow.  David needed a loaf of bread, but I was very surprised that the grocery stores were closed today as they hadn't been closed yesterday.

Got a bit of work done in the studio, until David came looking for his power stapler.  He insisted that he'd left it in the studio, but neither of us could find it.  I even insisted that we search the garage.  No luck there.  Under the stairs? Same.  I gave up and came upstairs to make lunch, then heard a shout that he'd found it, and in the studio, as he'd said.  It had been on the top of the book case near my machine, but the top of that bookcase is recessed, so you can't really see anything up there.  I had forgotten about the possibility of something being there.

I'm hoping to get a bit more time in the studio after supper, but if not?  That's okay.  It's been a lazy day, and I've spent time outside reading.  Tomorrow is our yearly visit to the hearing aid store.  I know they're going to try to convince me to buy a second one, and I know I would benefit from it, but the cost is scary..  Even scarier is knowing that the one I'm using now has just about reached the end of it's expected life, and will need replacing soon.

As well tomorrow, I have a supper date with my friend Gail, and the other ladies who were involved at the craft sale we had at her house last December.  It'l be nice to get out with them.  One of the ladies has got an artist in residence opportunity in the Maritimes, so we are giving her a send off.

Staying at home can be an adventure

I had mentioned picking the cherries.  We got the juice made and it wasn't very much, so David went out to pick more cherries.  He noticed that there was someone at the gro-op next door, so went to the door, and asked if we could pick the branches that were hanging over their yard.  She said yes!  Truthfully, if the gate hadn't been padlocked, we might have just gone in-despite the security cameras. So, more cherries, and in the end, enough juice to make two batches, which we did this morning.  Not without a quick trip to the store for more lids though.

The recipe said that it would make 5 1/2 cups of jelly, and this was also what my memory indicated.  We had just enough jars, but the recipe, for some reason, made 7 cups.  After all the picking, and cleaning etc we weren't going to waste 2 cups of jelly, so it's sitting in the fridge in a 2 cup measuring cup.  I have no idea how it will be used.  But we have solid, very flavourful jelly--a real treat.

By the time everything was finished, we were both beat.  Time for naps.

No pans for tomorrow.

Quickie - a real quickie

Need a purpose for all your beads Pati. Check out the updated posting on The Quilt Show blog ( Cathy log onto this as well - worth a look) and see the quilt highlighted called Beacon. Have fun.