I'm reading a book

I can't put it down.  If I had to assign a genre to it, it would be British Police Procedural, but that's just a part of it.  Even though I haven't finished it, I've already ordered more from the library.  The author is Nicci French, and the book is described as a Frieda Klein mystery. The title is "Day of the Dead", and it's the most recent mystery in the series.  I certainly plan to read more of them.

Of tea cups, and computers, and bathtubs

That first few weeks in retirement can be very stressful.  The up side is that maybe you can get more sleep, and there is always the option of "I will sit out in the sun and relax for 10 minutes before I deal with that".  You don't ignore the problems, you just deal with them as you can--no longer do you have to "jump and run" at the the first sign of difficulty.  You will also have the luxury of being able to spend a little more time taking care of yourself--and make sure you do! You two can laugh at my endless lists, but to me writing things down on my "to do" list, gives me the feeling, right or wrong, that it will be taken care of in due time, and I can stop worrying about it.  And I do work from the lists, and things do get done.  Cathy, a small "nest egg" is critical in retirement.  Hang onto it for "dear life".  

Re: tea cups.  I still remember the panic over Grandma F's funeral.  The after service reception was held at his sister's big fancy house in St. Norbert, but neither his sister nor I had any tea cups to serve tea.  If I remember, she had to rent them.  Not wanting to be caught unprepared again, I then spent the next 2-3 years scouring garage sales for tea cups, and ended up  with 3 dozen, figuring that would be enough.  Held on to those things for over 25 years and never used them.  Off they went to the thrift store in one of my culls.  I've kept 6-"just in case".  They sit on a top shelf in the kitchen and gather dust.  When I have ladies over, I use the four of Mom's saucer/plates, and two more that I bought in an antique sale.  I have to make sure that I get the right one, for myself, as it has a small crack.  

As well as the tea cups, I no longer have two of my three 12 place setting china sets.  I'm pleased that Cathy has the good Royal Doulton one that is still in the family, and the Royal Albert, that Amber didn't want, raised quite bit of money at the garage sale, at the church across the street.  They took bids on it, and did well.  I'm now thinking of offering them my Christmas china.  It isn't good china but is both microwave and dishwasher safe.  Who knows what it might sell for.

So having discussed, to death, over the years, the topic of what to do with the good china and silverware, that everyone got when they married 50 years ago, do we all realize that our special coffee mugs are Royal Albert?  And I use mine everyday and put it in the dishwasher.  And it's not dishwasher safe, so has lost most of it's gold trim.  I love it and will continue to use it.

Bit of a scare last evening.  I was playing "heads up" in a poker tournament when I heard David fall in the bathtub.  He took a nasty bang on the head--quite a "goose egg", but we kept an eye on him for about an hour and a half, and he seemed okay, so went to bed.  Seems alright this morning.  Needless to say, I didn't win the tournament.  But I did find out that he doesn't use the safety equipment we have in the tub.  "Nuff said" about that.

A couple of small errands to run today.  Maybe some time in the studio.

Computers and retirement blues

I couldn't get into the blog.  It told me my google password was changed yesterday. (not me)  So now I have changed my |Google password.  It seems it is used for anything related to Google, including the blog.  I wonder what other surprises I am going to get.  Then there are the retirement surprises.  They contacted me from work yesterday for two things.... First, the form I filled in for my Severance to go to my RRSP was outdated now because we got a raise on March 24th.  Could I please send a new one.  Secondly,  sorry Cathy, but when we told you your blue cross would end on April 5 we were wrong.  It actually ends today. (Friday)  So much for the prescriptions I was going to fill today.  And speaking of Blue Cross.  It seems they sent me the wrong forms and quotes.  Instead of $217 per month it will be $340 per month and I have to reapply as soon as possible.  I sent the new forms in but we opted for the basic plan at $253 per month.  Lower medication and dental coverage and no vision coverage (or massage 😞)  Even that is more than I budgeted for.  We even waffled at the $217.  We will try for a year, but once we reach our max we will still be paying $253 as well as full price for our medications.  Not a great week for me. I did manage to clean the bathroom.  Obviously I don't do it often enough as I found 7 deodorants, none of them empty.  I still have to scrub the tub surround, but I will get to that today.  I started sorting papers in the office and have thrown out (to be burned) all the tax returns up until 2010, old mortgage documents, Sears' and phone bills etc.  Next is the pictures.  I started on the books and took a box in for the Rotary used book sale.  I have trouble parting with my cook books.  I love looking through them for recipes to try. (easy ones... I don't have the ingredients for some of the more complex ones)  Trouble is, ones I love, Jim dislikes and the other way around.  And, "GASP",  he doesn't really like apple crisp.  What do I do with the 24 bags of frozen apple slices I have?  I get my 50 days of banked holidays on my next cheque so I am planning on putting some of it away for emergencies.  Or maybe even paying someone to do some repairs around the house.  I still have tape over the bathroom light switch cause there is a problem with the light.  And the shower leaks and the toilet runs.  I can deal with the toilet.  Especially now that I have cleaned off the top of the toilet tank and can get into it.  The leak I think is behind the tub surround. Not as easy.  And then there is the well......... It is much easier to ignore these things when you are gone all day.  I wonder what I will be like in another 3 weeks..  I might be totally crazy by then and not just half way.😅

Coincidence?

Further to my request for ideas other than a china cup and saucer, I was reminded of our old traditions/habits once I started to read a new book last night - another Joanne Kilbourn novel by Gail Bowen called 12 Rose Street. Early in the book the character Joanne went to her daughters for tea and here are a few excerpts from that discussion:
           "Meika and I both believed that tea should be served in                      china cups and saucers, the thinner the better, and that                    morning she had chosen my favourite Aynsley for the Earl                Grey"
And then further on:
           "After Meika left I poured myself a second cup of tea and                  gazed at the impossibly delicate cup that held the Earl                      Grey.  My marriage to my late husband, Ian, had taken                    place in the time of cup and saucer showers"
She then went on to describe the tea cup in a very detailed and descriptive manner.  I laughed to myself and thought how simple life seemed to be at that time? I remembered being with Mom once at the Eaton's store (in the basement Discount if I recall) and her buying some cups and saucers.  By the way, I also vaguely remember being with her when she bought the large saucer /tea plate cups that we all share now, .... or I could be wrong.
Anyway that was a quick aside to life and wanted to share it with you. Take care  ps it is now snowing down hard here - I just brought in the pump form outside - maybe have to find the snow shovel !!!

Dirty looking snow banks...

With the little bit of melting going on these days one can see the snow banks turning to that dirty looking mess, but this year I welcome it with open arms. Lets get this snow out of the way.....
Bailey is loving this weather for his walks and he sniffs every snow bank and climbs up as high as he can to get a different view of the world around him. I have to remember that he sees only so much at his level and often I will pick him up and his little head moves back and forth to see what is going on. I count my walks with him as a pleasure for me.
More work in the greenhouses yesterday and this year is no different than others in that there is already far too many plants but that seems to be the norm so life moves on. 
I have to buy a bridal Shower gift and get it to Harry's sister Donna to take to the Shower for her future daughter in law on May 11 that I have already sent my regrets to attending - it is hours away and I shall not be driving to go there. So I ask you both, what is the expected kind of gift to give Bride's these days. Gone are the days of a china cup and saucer as was the habit in our early days. Would you please send me suggestions from your more current knowledge and experiences?
So on with breakfast...I have to eat these bagels I bought at Costcos - I could not resist that purchase but since I cannot freeze they are now my morning and lunch fare. And I have to eat the pate that Harry bought - four packages of assorted flavours which now he cannot eat - now it is my responsibility. Tough job but someone has to do it haha!  Take care and happy weekend. Next week starts the month of April so hope for summer is drawing nearer

"...to Costco we did go..."

....to Costco we did go...and Beth bought herself a banana nut loaf!!
I took note of all your comments about Costco and did my best to make it a positive experience. I think I did well but sure if I could have shopped a bit slower, and able to cost check more carefully I might have done even better. It would take another visit or two to get the hang of it I guess, but then I am not sure I would really want to shop there too often. We found the store without issue in Orillia (south of here ) OK although we were there too early and sat in the parking lot until the store opened at 10 am. No problem getting a good parking spot though haha! But I still have $$ on the gift card so I must be sure to take full advantage of that bonus.
The snow seems to be gradually melting when the sun comes out and it is "gradual" that we need - not fast. The neighbours Ruth and Gerd across the street have tapped their Maple tree in their front yard as they do every year and I stood there with Bailey yesterday and watched the sap drip.. drip.. drip into their buckets. One year they gave us a bottle of their own syrup which was really nice.
I am trying to organize our Income Tax papers in order to take to the Accountant but found one piece missing - a call to the Bank resulted in a need to wait for at least two to three weeks for one T4Rif to be mailed to me -so I will not be able to get the taxes done as early as I had hoped. I always want to get that issue managed early to see what the "insult" will be.
So this morning I have many chooses for my breakfast from our shopping trip. I bought a big container of little on the vine tomatoes thinking that I should be able to eat them up fast enough - so a bagel sandwich sounds good right now.  And Pati I already tried a piece of the loaf and it is much bigger than I thought so I see now I will have to try to freeze some. 
BTW - One the way home we stopped at The Candy Store - a specialty store full of all sorts of treats. I bought myself some licorice lozenges (always loved these), some chocolate covered raisins, and yoghurt covered raisins and a bag of jujubes. So I am in heaven haha! Take care

Lucked in at the library

We quite by accident discovered the latest Mark Pryor novel "The Book Artist.  Of course I grabbed it and spent the last couple of days reading it.  Well satisfied.  Now I've moved on to one of the earlier Helen Field  D.I. Callanach novels "Perfect Prey".  I almost hate finishing one of these very readable books, knowing I then have to search another one out.

An excellent luncheon yesterday, marred by a restaurant that appeared to be out of everything.  Three of the six of us couldn't
get what we wanted.  But we did exchange ATC's and welcomed a new member.  They have another luncheon scheduled for next month, but on a day for which I have another commitment.

I haven't been sleeping well lately.  Too much pain and general discomfort.  Also because it looks like I gave up my duvet a little prematurely.  After some really warm days and a very fast melt, ( the river is breaking up at Selkirk), it's now down to double digits at night.  Mind you, I was absolutely exhausted yesterday, and spent the evening curled up in my chair, under a quilt, watching a documentary on Prince Charles, followed by two home improvement shows.  Not really my taste at all but I must have been dozing off, because I barely remember any of it.

Another hurdle .....

We got through the planned power outage this morning OK - was to be from 8 to 12 noon - it came back on at 12:30 much to my delight. The greenhouses were getting pretty low in temperatures without the heaters going and was wondering if we would need to augment with propane. I will have to cover tonight and tomorrow night as temps down to double digit negatives but then rest of week looks OK right now. Now it is snowing - yeah!
Not much one can do when power is off -I read a bit and cleaned up this and that a bit, but really accomplished nothing. Now I have supper on the go and plan an early reading night again. Picked up another Joanne Kilbourn Novel at the Library and should get through it this weekend. But, and this is quite rare for me, I just poured a glass of sherry thinned down with club soda that I am sipping at. A treat for me......
Pati I hope that your adventure with the ATC group proves positive and that you folks decide to proceed - I know you enjoyed those luncheons and socialization. And now Cathy I was wondering if there were any groups of like minded folks with whom you are interested in joining - anything at the Library, or maybe Arts Forward?  
Well time to get the grub on. By the way, I made a strata for my breakfast this morning - sort of a variation on the recipe I had, but I enjoyed it and will probably make again for myself. 
Take care.

And now for a few days at home.

Last week was weird, and involved unexpected things-or expected things gone strange.  Wednesday we worked all day on the "to do" list that I had been compiling for a couple of weeks, with plans of getting things accomplished while we had no car.  When we had exhausted ourselves, and had done as much as we physically could.  I went downstairs and started going through my fibre related books to see if there were any I could cull.  There were also several loose leaf binders full of "stuff".  I spent quite a bit of time on the binders, as I found quite a few outlines and related stuff on classes that I no longer teach, and never want to consider teaching again. There were also notes etc from classes that I had taken.   Going through all of that paperwork took the rest of the day. I phoned the Craft Museum and Library and they were receptive to the books, on the understanding that any they couldn't use would be sold, as part of a fund raiser.

There were also some things that came up through e-mail, that were preying on my mind, and called for a quick trip out to Selkirk.  So Thursday morning off we went,  Books in a suitcase in the trunk, and paper work firmly in my hand.  We figured we might be home in time for lunch--poor fools us.  Selkirk was a zoo.  People coming and going, lots of inquiries and questions.  The final sign-off on the renovations was going on.  People were there who could offer me advise and support on some procedural changes I wanted to make within my area of responsibility, and that lead to even more work.  We were there for over 2 hours.  By the time we left, David wanted lunch, so we stopped at the A&W in Lockport, and then drove into the city on Main St., something neither of us has done in years.

Got to the Crafts Museum and Library in time to drop off the books.  Once we got that done, she asks about a class I was to have taught for them over 10 years ago, and wondered if there might be any chance to try it again.  Thank Goodness, it didn't involve all of the papers I had culled on Wednesday, so I told her I would think seriously about it.

Friday was, of course, laundry day, but when it came time for a coffee break, David had several errands to run, so between outings, the laundry wasn't finished until almost bedtime.  It was time to put away the duvets, which made extra work, of course.  But we now have spring and fall quilts on the beds, as well as new pillow cases.  We needed new pillow cases, so, that morning, we had visited the store closing sale at Hudson's Bay Home Sense store nearby.  Wow, even with big reductions, the prices had to be seen to be believed, but we found the only two sensibly priced sets of pillow cases in the whole place ( we know as we had looked at every set of pillow cases in the store).

Today, early, an unexpected e-mail, saying that there are people wanting to resurrect the ATC group, and there will be a luncheon meeting tomorrow.  I still have the cards that weren't used, last spring, so said I would go.  The rest of the "to do" list was accomplished, and there was even time this afternoon to do some pattern designing in the studio.  Heaven!

You're right

It really will take awhile to accept and believe, emotionally, that it's done. This is almost as big a change in life as having a child.  It may be hard to believe but research has shown that this change can be a stressful as moving or getting a divorce.  At least this is a happy change.  Enjoy every minute of the transition.  

Final Post from the Office

Yes, I am blogging instead of working, but I don't trust my mind to function today.  I already sent some documents back to the ADR queue because there were problems with them and I didn't want to make something deficient since I won't be here to deal with the correction when it comes.  The 3 documents that I did have deficient I forwarded to Lindsey in Dauphin.  She will handle the corrections when they come in.  I changed my phone message to "do not leave a message. Please call 1-844 etc for assistance."  I have my out of office set on my email and that just leaves one program to mark as offline.  I told Patty & Elizabeth that I felt close to tears today just knowing that it is done.  I figure it will take about a month before I settle down and really realize that I am done.  At least with spring coming I will have lots to do at home. I still have my office key.  Technically I don't have to turn it in until next week.  I have a number of empty binders here that I have been told I can donate to charity so I am waiting to here if the school can use some for students that can't afford them.  ArtsForward also wants some.  And now I have one more hour to kill by sitting around not doing anything and I am done.  Jim wants to take me out for lunch, so he has the car and will pick me up at 1:00.  It is going to be a change for both of us.

Appreciate suggestions...

In order to get the Costco Winter Sales discount on the GM lease I had to pay for another year membership with Costco. The gift card was part of the bonus with the offered Winter Sale Discount and included the need for me to do an interview to complete a Survey with them. 
Now I am preparing a list for our visit to the Store and I have mostly written down those items which you mentioned Pati were of value. As much as I would love to get meat and baked goods, I do NOT have the freezer space. Nor would I be able to consume lots of fresh vegetables as I know the packages are mostly in larger quantities, such as lettuce etc.
Just waiting for the forecast 'rain" to arrive for overnight - hoping the temperature hovering around the freezing mark will turn it to snow and I will not have to set up the pump outside, but I have it at the ready just in case.
Can you believe I am reading a Clive Cussler novel (Oregon Files series) from the Library. I went in and browsed for all the authors and titles I had written down that you folks have offered to me but the Library had none and then I looked at the new arrivals and settled on this book just to take something home to read.  I always enjoyed the stories from the Oregon Files and being a new publication l knew I had not read it before.
Yesterday thank goodness I spotted our old metal shed at the back of the yard was crinkling a bit at the top from snow buildup on it's far side - could only spot it from the road when I took the dog for a walk - so I immediately had to get out there with a shovel and ice chipper and had one h... of a time trying to clean it off - almost impaled myself on the tomato cages I had stored along it's far side and the snow was so deep I was sinking down to my knees. But my need to save the shed (and all that is in it) was paramount so I prevailed .....yeah for me !!  Do I hear you clapping for me?
Well, time to close up shop for another day. A Lady called us from the pet store today in North Bay about buying a budgie as the owner there and here in Sundridge run both stores and knew we had a million of the birds - I decided that since she only wanted one, and I would have to pack it up and haul it to North Bay -I would decline.  After all, when we wanted a bird, we went to the Pet Store and bought one - we did not go after someone who would give us one!  Oh well.....take care.

Be careful what you wish for-----

We've been to Costco a couple of times.  Does the card come with a membership?  First time we went to look around, and spend over $400.  Almost as much the second time.  I went wild buying large containers of OTC meds and supplements that we both take.  Fantastic prices.  Prescriptions there are also much cheaper.  As are eye glasses and hearing aids.  Cleaning products are great there.  Do you see the trend here?  Products with long shelf lives are well worth looking at.  The caution is with food.

We bought some wonderful food in case lots, and then had a very difficult time using it up.  That is a real danger.  I still have csome canned soup in the basement. Sprague Vegetable soup with Lentils--I really enjoy it--periodically. Meats are good quality and very well priced--if you have freezer room.  Bakery goods are excellent, but only come in huge packages. I really like the Banana Bread with Walnuts.  When we buy it, it gets cut into slices and frozen for munchies, and when I know I have to serve tea to visitors.  Again, fresh fruits and veggies were well priced, but not displayed attractively.  Still very good quality. They have some very interesting packaged, prepared foods. Mind boggling variety.  More costly than suits me, but with lots of tasty fat and sugar.  Whenever we've been, B-B-Q'd whole chicken has been very attractively priced, and tasted wonderful--but read the ingredients carefully.  They have usually been injected with sugar water to make them more tender.

Well, today is "work party" day.  We're both sitting here over breakfast procrastinating a bit with it.  I have added "culling book shelves" to the list.  I can no longer get books out of, and then back into the book shelves downstairs.  the ones up here have been pretty well gone through recently.

so, at least, I will have some interesting reading to end the day.

Is Spring actually coming....

Is it the first day of spring really???? So there is hope I think as the temperatures are starting to rise somewhat and besides, I bought a new light jacket at the Thrift Store yesterday to brighten my spirits. It is aqua and lime green - you should be able to see me all the way from here to there haha!
And I bought a new (to me) yoghurt - an Activia but it is prune flavoured. I have never seen this before and took a bit once I got home and it is quite nice. One never knows what is out there right? 
By the way , Pati I am surprised as well that you were able to get your car back sooner, but that's good for you. Maybe you were not meant to do all that house work?? Take it as a "sign".
Mike called last evening all excited because he had just made a spaghetti pie and put it in the oven - he had gone on line to find a recipe once I had described it to him. So folks, you may be wondering if you haven't gone on to check yourselves. There are all sorts of recipes to choose from but mine was very simple and came from "Taste of Home".  It is made with spaghetti mixed with egg whites and parmesan cheese spread on the bottom and sides of a deep dish pie plate. Then covered with a layer of cottage cheese and then a ground beef mixture made with beef, tomatoes, onions peppers and spices, etc, and then covered with mozzarella cheese to melt on top at end of baking. The spaghetti makes a soft textured crust like bottom which surprised me, but in all, it was quite palatable.  I shall make it again. 
And I apologize for the link I sent to you on the Karakoram Highway. It was NOT what I had watched and NOT at all what I had wanted you to see of this absolute spectacular man made structure covering the route from China to Pakistan through the Himalaya Mountains. So sorry.
So I received my gift card from Costco in the mail - $500.00 - and now Harry wants to drive south to Orillia to go to the new Costco store just opened there. I have to find a map for directions but I expect we shall be going next week sometime. 
Time to face the day.....Hope all is well. Take care

Surprise!!

Just having settled into our imposed isolation in the house for 4 days, we were very surprised this morning to get a phone call telling us that the car would be ready by 3:00 this afternoon.  What's more, when David arrived to pay for it, the bill was almost $100 less that we expected.  There was no charge for the bit of extra work we had requested.  Unfortunately, we hadn't even got to the job list I've been preparing for over a week.  That will have to be tackled tomorrow.  But I will be able to head out for my coffee when I need a break.

The "stitch-In" that I spoke of was this afternoon.  It was nice to meet three ladies who live in the area, and are Embroiderers' Guild members.  We met in a very nice condo on the fifth floor of a building on Henderson Highway.  This was only about the 3rd time I've ever been in one of the very many buildings along that stretch of road.  The view was wonderful, and there was no highway noise.  I understand that this is a problem in many of the blocks.

While we were there one of the ladies spoke about how much help her father, and after his death, her mother had received from Veterans' affairs, especially with yard work.  Whatever the program, it's aimed at keeping veterans in their homes for as long as possible, so household assistance and personal care may also be provided.  From what she understood, all that is required is service overseas and to be in receipt of a military pension.  David has both, so he's going to see what he can find out ( we already know they won't talk to me).  I know there used to be similar programs for second world war vets, but it sounds like the program has been expanded in recent years.  Nothing ventured, nothing gained!

Several days of celebration

Lots of good food.  But now it's over.  I told Loren yesterday that my "tantrum" about organizing every body else's birthday celebrations for over 50 years, while no-one organized one for me( or rarely did anyone do it) was over.  This year turned out to be a bit of a "blow out".  We started Wednesday, continued Thursday, and finished yesterday.  I sure can't complain about that!

Today David was up early and took the car in.  I don't expect him to get home for about an hour, as he will have to wait for the shuttle service from the Body shop.  Then we can start four days of spring cleaning.  We also bought some hamburger yesterday, so will be making some spaghetti sauce and Chili today.  Except we forgot to pick up onions.  This means a walk over to the Giant Tiger store at the mall as soon as it opens.  Later, I'll have to walk over to the library, which doesn't open until 1:00, as I'm out of books.

Never heard of Spaghetti Pie.   How did it turn out and what is it?

Tomorrow is I'm getting together with a couple of members of the Embroiderers' Guild, for a "Stitch In", and will need some hand stitching to do.  I plan to put together the beginnings of a small bag ( from a video on Design Matters tv,) with my needle felter later today, to finish with hand stitching while I'm out tomorrow.  I'm sort of looking forward to that.  It may turn into a sale-able item that I can use for the one craft sale I may be invited to next Christmas.

Otherwise, I have a lengthy list of household projects to keep us both busy for the next four days.  One of which is to wash all of the kitchen chairs.  I dust them periodically, but now I notice they need a good wash.  I have shelves to clean and floors to wash, walls to wash and cupboards to sort out.  I don't think I'll get bored while we're stuck at home for four days.  But, if worse comes to worst,  Autopac will cover the cost of taxis.

Special day for Cathy

Here's to you Cathy as today you have your Retirement Dinner. Shall be thinking of you and will be there in spirit. Hope you enjoy the time especially with some family in attendance as well to offer moral support?  Just have fun.....XX

Wondering - here is a question......

Have either of you heard of, or tried, or even made: spaghetti pie?

I just put one in the oven - I first heard of it from my friend Sue last week in one of her emails. I looked it up on the net, found a recipe and just made it now. Now I am wondering if it is any good or (dread) another bust! and a waste of time and ingredients.

I shall let you know what the outcome is......shortly.

Also here is a wonder - on You Tube. Look up Karakoram Highway on You Tube and watch the choose that says "Trip/Tour" - it is about 23 minutes long. Get ready to be blown away!!!!!

Roller Coaster

Still trying to get off this roller coaster ride we have been on for quite awhile - with the weather and the associated aspects of life managing the effects of the weather. Snow on the ground this morning and the plough just went by - more shoveling at the driveway. Yesterday and day before rain and it's partners such as freezing rain and pellets took over - and of course the results of roof ice dams and leaking. In the afternoon Harry took to the front and chipped all the ice and I removed it as it fell off to the ground. Surely this will help? We still have to do the back of the house which is on the agenda for today but it will cause some problems with positioning the ladder as the back is loaded with snow banks - less likely to get purchase for the ladder which is my job - to stabilize the ladder while Harry works at the roof. Not an easy job.
Thursday night there was a terrible fire at the end of our street at the corner of the Highway. An original building which currently held the Muskoka Auto Parts Store as well as a residential apartment. It was completely destroyed as the Volunteer Firemen were still on site all day Friday as they still sprayed the rubble as a huge machine demolished the standing parts. The sadist part of this story if it can get worse, is that the woman who lived in the apartment - the crossing guard at the corner for all the school kids - lost her husband on Dec 26 and was still in shock and mourning over his death - now she has lost everything - all her memories and possessions.  The United Church has started a clothing fund and there are pots around town for people to donate.  I also wonder about the business beginning again or will it not exist anymore - it was a very busy place with people coming there for their parts needs and a boost for the community. That corner will never be the same landmark that it was.
Well, time for some breaky and then on with the day. I was happy to read about your Birthday events Pati and apparently still more for today with the family. And Cathy what have you planned as you countdown the days???  Take care

My birthday

I'm not sure if making elaborate plans and telling everyone is such a good idea.  My plans changed at almost the last minute.  My visit with my friend Gail is now planned for this afternoon, and the trip to Baked Expectations with the children will be tomorrow afternoon.  The trip to the dentist happened Wednesday afternoon instead of Thursday, but that meant that I was able to deal with my regular dentist rather than the other partner in the practice.  After seeing the dentist, we were at loose ends and ended up taking a drive into the country.  A beautiful day for something like that.  Yesterday we both went for pedicures and manicures.  David was quite pleased at being able to get his feet done and plans to go again, but doesn't think having his hands done was worth the cost.  We headed out to Baked Expectations on our own for supper.  They were quite busy, and our supper was badly delayed, so they "comped" our dessert.  Bonus! We then headed to the Casino and spent the rest of the evening there, but came home with more $$$ than we went with, so there was a bit of a bonus there too.

That type of bonus is more of a good thing than you might think. The car goes in for body work very early Monday morning and we'll be without it for about 4 days. ( If you remember, I scraped the side of the house awhile back) We'll have to pay the deductible and we're having a small job done on the rear bumper at the same time, which will cost us a bit out of pocket.  The main job will be done under Autopac, but there go my merit points.

We don't have any real travelling to do while it's in there so opted not to arrange for a rental, as Autopac only covers a portion of the cost.  Autopac will cover any taxis we take, should the need arise.  We'll do some grocery shopping on Sunday, and then spend the next four days tackling a job list I've put together for Spring Cleaning.  Great fun!

A quick few words....

Thinking of Pati out celebrating her Birthday, and hoping that she and Dave will have a wonderful time. Good on you Pati. Be sure to fill us in haha!
In meantime I'll write a few words as an update for my today's events here. Clearing snow, and roof and shoveling and pumping water outside and buckets inside for leaking - never had such a horrible time before with all this melting and the rain is to start in 30 minutes and persist throughout the night - so I guess I'll be pumping all night? One seems to just function by rote. But I heard from my friend Sue by email today and she is suggesting we meet for luncheon on April 17 so now I have something to look forward to - anticipation haha!  By the way, on Tuesday I bought that skirt I mentioned and to make an outfit I bought a top that I think goes with it just fine. So I am set for this wedding on Sept 7 and now need to buy a Bridal Shower gift for the shower to which I was invited but will not attend.
Well, time to put the birds to bed and then settle in for the night myself. Hope it will be a quiet night???? Take care

Happy Birthday Pati

Here we go with another Birthday Song - are you ready, Pati
          Happy Birthday to you
          Happy Birthday to you
          Happy Birthday dear Pati
          Happy Birthday to you!
Wishing you a wonderful day, and sending all our best thoughts for a memorable time in all you have planned. XX

Monday and March Break

Anyone know what this message is about cookies and do we need to change anything in the blog or logon? I do NOT understand....

Nothing really different for us related to March Break anymore except there are lots of kids wandering around during the day.
Saturday was glorious with sunny skies, borderline freezing temperatures and the main road was awash with water runoff streaming down the street towards the lake. And people were out enjoying whatever they had their mind to do and people were happy and smiling. And Harry was on the roof shoveling more snow just in his long sleeved shirt and I was on the ground shoveling the snow and not minding the weather at all haha!
Then Sunday came with snow, freezing rain, gusty winds and generally a real "downer". The temperature though, remained just under the freezing mark which was good. And then this morning just the same - so much more snow over night. The plough just went by and there is another huge pile at the end of the driveway to remove. What is going on.....?
Harry brought home a bread maker from the dump on Sat - he tried it with two loaves of bread neither of which turned out great so Sunday I had to try it and mine (cinnamon raisin) also did not turn out great. Harry thinks it is the yeast we used but even so, I used some new yeast I had for mine and it was still heavy . I just made some toast and it is ok to eat but not really wonderful.
And with the milder temperatures I had forgotten about the box of homemade sausage I had outside - in winter when it is cold the outdoor freezer is useful. I quickly retrieved the box and fortunately they were still frozen solid so I made room in the freezers inside which are really at capacity now. And I had to cook one package for supper, that I couldn't squeeze into the freezer.
Tomorrow we go to Harry's Dr appointment for 9 am and then down to Huntsville to shop. I shall look closer at the clothes in the Thrift Store and hope to catch a bargain. If that skirt I told you about is still there, I may just buy it.
But for now on with the day and week. I missed watching the last episode on the The Quilt Show so do not know if I missed much, but for sure I must watch the current one. I usually watch it within the first week of publishing but with our lack of internet and then all the fussing with home stuff, it completely missed my attention. I have been watching your Blog Pati to see if you get any comments for suggestions for your dyed fabric pieces - did you get any by email?
So take care all.....

It's supposed to be warmer

The tv says that it's -5.  The forecast is for -3.  This morning I put on a t-shirt instead of a sweater and I'm cold.  And I was so optimistic!

Thursday I had a meeting out in Selkirk.  I had got up determined to find something good and/or beautiful in everything around me.  It was a beautiful drive.  The sun was shining, and the highway was clear.  Most of the ice fishing huts were gone from the river, and those remaining appeared to be in the process of being moved.  The government had issued a warning that they had to be off by last weekend, as the ice breakers were moving in.  Does this mean Spring is coming?  (Lots of concern about flooding to the South of us, and that doesn't bode well for us.)  It was something to see tow trucks with flatbed trailers backed into the approaches to the river, waiting to take the huts away.  Some of the huts are fairly elaborate, but there are others that are just glorified tents, and over the winter there were even a few chairs beside a hole, as well.  A beautiful day, a well oiled meeting with good results.  And then it was time to head home.  Whoops!  Where did the highway go?  Sun was still shining, and you could actually see the highway, but the blowing snow was heavy enough that, periodically, it was almost a white out up to the level of the car door.  Above that there were clear lines of sight in all directions. I have to confess that it didn't actually interfere much with driving, but it was unlike anything I had seen before.

Yesterday was a quiet day.  Laundry to do, as we do every Friday.  I gave myself an early birthday gift and bought another month of membership to Design matters tv.  As before, I found a few interesting ideas in their membership videos, at least one of which I want to try.  But as always new techniques require supplies and that means money.  Regardless, I think I may make a short trip to Micheal's with a limited budget, just to give my idea a try.

Saturday is usually my day for watching tv, mainly on PBS.  Unfortunately, this month is pledge break and none of my usual shows are on.  That means the evening playing poker.  I just get one or two tournaments in on an evening, but lately I've been doing a little better.  Hope that holds for tonight.

So it is Friday....

And it feels just like all the other days as I wake up to cold, and cold. But it is March 8 so the light is beginning to shine at the end of this snowy tunnel.
And it is March 8 so Happy Anniversary to Amber and Darren as well.
We had a lovely visit with Daisy and her family yesterday - Harry came along so that was great for Daisy's son Mike to talk with him - they were both in the Army so has some tales to tell together. Daisy is looking good in spite of her failing mental state and obvious physical deficiencies with mobility. Her Birthday is March 25 but for a surprise I took cupcakes decorated with a candle and a card and sang happy Birthday. I told her I did not want to miss being with her this year for her Birthday like it turned out last year. She will be 91 on March 25.  As well it was Aunt Evelyn's Birthday yesterday - she turned 93 years. I had spoken with her a few days ago on the phone and some of her family were coming over this weekend. 
Lots to do now here at home with Harry fussing about the greenhouses and temperatures rising somewhat to cause most likely some dripping and thawing.
Don't forget to turn the clocks ahead this weekend folks - would hate to be behind the times haha! Take care

Beautiful....

Looks mighty fine to me and dinner to boot! Good for you and glad your special day was indeed special Cathy. Flowers really do brighten one's disposition, don't they?  Just seeing them on your table boosted my spirits a whole lot. Maybe it's because it took my eyes off all this snow and cold outside the window haha! 
I made pancakes for my supper last night - following old traditions to celebrate Shrove Tuesday. I was up to the Library today to return two books and take out two more. So I have some good reading to get me through the next week or so...always like to know there is reading in store before bed - it ends my days nicely. I do not have the Candy Crush to play that you folks have ....to sit and chill out for a bit. Are you two near close to the same levels or how is it working out? Pati you were at the top of the winners list weren't you?  Bye for now, and thanks for the picture Cathy. 

A good Birthday

A special treat for me.  Jean made supper for us as a surprise for me.  Jim knew about it.   Lasagne, salad and garlic bread.

 

And flowers from Jim :)

Thoughts for the day

The depressive episode from a couple of weeks ago seems to be hanging around trying to catch me off guard.  Other than maintaining my vigilance, there doesn't seem to be much I can do.  Thank Goodness the issue is mild and controllable, provided I become aware.  And I am happy to consider the approaching Spring.

Today I read some obituaries.  The husband of a friend has recently died, and I would very much like to read his.  Instead I found the obituary of a man  who was part of my working life.  He was much more of an acquaintance than a friend, but I knew his wife well, and worked closely with her for over a year.  At first I was a little dismayed to realize that he was actually younger than me, but as I read on, it said that  16 years ago, he had been given 3 months to live.  What a blessing it was for both him and his family to have the gift of those 16 years!

How can we train ourselves to see life as a gift and a blessing?  It's a general thought that man's life is  "three score and ten"-seventy years.  This means that every day I live is a gift beyond what is my general allotment.

But--does that mean that we have some sort of obligation to find some meaning in our days, and make sure we use them in meaningful ways?  Or is it enough if we're grateful for what health we have, and the pleasure we find in what we do.  Not sure how to look at the 2 hours I spent this morning playing Candy Crush, but I know there are no regrets.

Catching up....

We were without the internet for 8 days. And although life just kept coming on and on, it was interesting to see and feel the impact that living without this technological device, which has become so much a part of our lives, had on each of us, but especially seeing my reaction to it.  We have been programmed to its use  - I was going to say "captive" but i think that is too strong for me - maybe not for others. I was still able to walk over to the bank to do banking that was necessary, and I was still able to use the phone to compete other tasks such as getting the lottery numbers haha! But I was not connected to you and the blog and the emails. Although my emails were all mostly from Onstar and Sirius and GM as result of our recent new car lease, and not personal, of which I really get few from very few acquaintances.   My morning routine was disrupted as I could not sit down with my coffee, by myself, and log on and  read about you folks, and about Winnipeg (through the Free press) and about other peoples blogs most of which you, Pati have me reading haha!  And I always check the weather and the Quilt Blog and so my morning starts........I believe that I could have survived if we did not have the internet, but nowadays, it is a necessary part of life which in itself may be a sad commentary on our lives as a whole. Anyway so here I am.......
As part of the new car lease I think I mentioned that we were able to take advantage of a Winter February Event discount if we were members of Costco. We did, and so we did. Part of this discount includes a $500.00 gift card to shop at Costco. I received a call the other day from GM (the agent was in San Diego and shocked when I said it was minus 22 C here) and I had to participate in a survey which I did, and then informed that my card for Costco would arrive in the mail within three weeks. This will be a bonus although it means we will have to go to a Costco. - There is the one in Sudbury closer to Mike, but also one in Orillia and Barrie to the south. 
Speaking of the cold, it is relentless and causing some differences of opinions here in this house as it relates to the greenhouses and their management. Short term weather may be better over this weekend but still not stable enough to offer any hope that this issue may be resolved amiably.  As well we have ongoing issues with the snow and ice on the roof and causing some leaking as the ice creates dams. We were out again to try to remove more snow and I bought a substance from the hardware to sprinkle on the ice along the edges which is very thick. This year is especially harsh and consequently we are experiencing worse issues than usual. The streets are being cleared by the village to allow for meltoff when it comes but I live in dreaded fear of what may happen here. I was speaking with our Insurance agent and confirmed we have water coverage with our Household Insurance but that is little consolation when I realize there is not much I can do down the road when it happens. So I live with that worry every day.
On a brighter note Harry's sister's son is getting married in September. We have received the invitation to the event to be held in Huntsville. Yesterday I received an invitation to a Bridal Shower from the Maid of Honour to be held in May in Collingwood which is at least three hours drive from here. The Bride, Ashley , is actually from Washago Beach, close to there. So there is no way I plan to attend, and will likely buy a gift and get it to Donna ( Harry's sister) as I am sure she will likely go or can give it to them somehow. The couple actually live in Peterborough north east of Toronto.  But in the meantime we have cloths to think about. The invitation noted it as "Formal wear".  Harry tried on his suit and it fits OK still. I have an old dress which I could wear but each week as we shop and go into the Thrift Store, I have a look for something that might fit the bill. I saw a gorgeous ( new) skirt that I loved but then one has to have a blouse and blazer or something to go with it - so I did not buy it.  I'll figure something out - I am sure I have something suitable right in my cupboard.
This week on Thursday I have a visit planned to Daisy who is up from Toronto with her family for the week. And Friday the husband of Ruth the neighbour across the street (Gerd) is having a Birthday and I have a card and hope to slip over for a coffee.  I plan to bake some cupcakes for both these visits but time will tell.
So I guess we are up to date for now? Now time for another coffee and some breakfast before my day begins in earnest. It is only minus 31 C this morning so it can only get better. Right?  Take care

Yes-a special birthday it is!

I hope you have a great day, especially now you can look forward to freedom.

Special Day

To Cathy as she celebrates her "special" Birthday.
Thinking of you today and wishing you a Happy Birthday!
May the day be perfectly grand!

Sp glad You're back......

I've been feeling a little like a voice in the wilderness.

Surprise - I'm back.....

The new modem arrived in the mail this morning and after I set it all up and got it working, Harry took first dibs. He had 297 emails and I had 13 emails - doesn't that tell you something about the differences in our computer use?????
Anyway we are busy with the roof again and I (apparently) have to water the greenhouse.  Tonight I will hope to get back on again, and concentrate on the blog messages and enjoy some time for me.
In the meantime, it is great to be back with you! XX

Interesting evening

Thursday was Loren's 50th birthday, and Gillian arranged a surprise party for him.  Evidently he has been working long hours lately, and was supposed to work that evening, but figured out that there was something up so managed to cut himself loose.  Gillian had managed to book Times Changed Blues Club for a private party between 7:00 and 9:00.  As it was a private party, Jessica and Samantha were able to attend, with the strict understanding that they would be out of the building by 9:00.  Of course they had already planned to tell everyone at school that they had spent the evening in a bar.  Probably weren't going to add that they had been with their parents.  It was a very nice party with all of the things you would expect in a Manitoba social, although I'm not sure if a cake was part of the expectations of a social.  And it wasn't a Jeanne's cake either, but very nice.  Jeremy made a speech, and did a good job.

That venue has been around for ever.  I've often driven past and wondered what it was like, and how it managed to survive as a business.  Especially with the kerfuffle about having the building declared as a heritage site.  Even while we were there it was obviously under renovation.  I was genuinely surprised at how small the actual room was.  The walls were covered with posters of, what we assumed were previous events there. David took a good look at them and said that some of the people in the pictures had been dead for quite awhile, and expressed surprise that the club had been around that long.  But my memory says that it's been there for as long as I can remember.  There was certainly nothing fancy about it.  Plank tables and beat up wooden chairs, but everything contributed to a very specific atmosphere.

But now we're back to reality--laundry yesterday and garbage and recycling tomorrow.