Good bye 2012...Hellooooo 2013

I hope everyone had a fantabulous Christmas. I have to say it was a very quiet one for me, but that’s ok. This was the year that my kids had Christmas dinner with their extended families. The next day we all got together at my oldest daughters place for our “traditional” Christmas dinner. It was a wonderful day filled with laughter, fun and excitement. The hour and a half ride home was rather hazardous since the first major storm descended on Southern Ontario about 30 minutes before we left, but we arrived home safely. I had a chance to meet up with a very old and dear friend and her hubby during the holidays. It’s always wonderful to see them and it certainly did my heart good to feel the warm hugs. We had a good time talking about old and new times over coffee at a local coffee shop and hopefully if all goes well with my job I’ll be able to save enough money to visit her this coming summer.

It’s hard to believe that 2012 is coming to an end. Where on earth has the time gone? This was certainly a year that I’ll be glad to see go. It was rather an emotional rollercoaster for me, but as I always like to say “I am woman, hear me roar”. It’s also true that what doesn’t kill you (emotional wise) makes you stronger! I have pulled up my big girl panties, made some major AND minor adjustments and continued on. I was going to post my triumphs and failures over the course of this year, but I changed my mind and decided instead to focus on the bigger picture I have begun to draw.

So as the New Year approaches I'm thinking of ditching the Resolutions and paying it forward. This idea has been circulating within my circle and I’m really thinking of doing this.

Choose a person in your life you want to help make a difference - a friend, colleague, family, partner, neighbor etc and do something every day of 2013 to show them you care... small gestures of kindness and thoughtfulness.

Send an email or a text, actually mail a card, whatever you think would make this person smile :-) and know you are thinking about them. This way someone important to you will have 365 memories (on New Year's Day of next year) of how you made them smile every day for 2013!

What do you think?

Have a wonderful and safe New Year everyone,

 and as Oprah Winfrey said….

Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.

 

 

My Thursday Thoughts

There comes a time in one’s life where they have to say goodbye to things they thought would be around for a long time. It’s not always easy to say good bye to familiar things, but in this case I will make an exception. Over the last few months this trusty companion has offered me the warmth and comfort I so desperately needed. Yes…it’s time to say goodbye, as the old saying goes, “out with the old and in with the new”. If I’m to be honest, I could see it happening. I began to hear certain things that led me to believe it’s time in my life was coming to an end. I really didn't want to believe the things I was seeing and hearing but its hard not to when the grumbling and groaning grew more each day. There were times I was awakened in the dead of the night to its cold and frosty temperament. The straw that broke the camel’s back happened just a few days ago. I tried to adjust my level of comfort when I was met with pure resistance. Now I’m usually pretty easy to get along with but when it refused to give in to my desires I figured it was time to kick it’s ass to the curb so to speak. My warmth and comfort will now be taken over by a brand new and more efficient furnace. There will be warmth and comfort in my home once again!

Only 11 more days until Christmas and as always I am as excited as any child. I really do love the holiday season and with the entire gift buying out of the way and everything wrapped I really am enjoying the Christmas count down. I was out at the mall the other day and couldn't help but to smile as I watched all the kids lined up to see Santa. Some were screaming bloody murder as the jolly red man sat helplessly holding tight to the squirming child as mom and dad had the traumatic experienced captured in a photo. Other children sat eagerly on his lap and you could see the amazement in their eyes as they told him what they wanted for Christmas. As I continued on my merry way I could see a few not so jolly faces and to those I did say Merry Christmas.  That reminds me, I saw a Face Book sign that I find very true and to me it’s the least offending sign to date with regards to the different religions and cultures in the world

I have a Christmas tree in my home - not a Holiday tree

My family is getting Christmas gifts – not Holiday gifts

We will be eating Christmas dinner – not a Holiday dinner

I will attend Christmas parties – not Holiday parties

I will wish you a Merry Christmas – not Happy Holidays

If you want to have a Happy Hanukkah, then by all means I will wish you the very best one ever

If you want to have a Blessed Kwanzaa, then please enjoy it to the fullest

All I ask is that you respect my beliefs as I respect yours!

Tis the Season

Well the holiday season is now upon us in all its festive glory. I pretty much have everything done except for a few gifts. This is the first time in years that I can honestly say that. Usually I’m one of the ones that tend to wait until the last minute, but not this year. Many things have changed for me over the last year and the main one being that I have taken stock in the different areas of my life. I have burned bridges, walked away from certain people and things and twice I have had to hold my head up high with as much dignity as I could muster and now with the help of some real friends I have begun to focus on the new and improved me. My one job came to an end since I was just covering for a maternity leave, but another door opened for me and I walked through it. I not only changed my life focus, but I have also changed my work focus as well. I’m entering into a whole different area and with the encouragement of my friends and family I know I will succeed. The only thing I was not too keen on was I had to sign a paper to say that I would consent to having a “family work photo” taken. This business has a staff of 9, but is very family oriented. It’s a huge change from my previous employer, but a very good change too! Anyone who knows me knows I hate my picture being taken and hells bells, this one will appear in one of our local advertising papers. I’m not sure if I am eagerly awaiting this photo to be printed or dreading it, oh well, I guess with new beginnings there are many new things to overcome, but as I always quote “I am woman hear me roar”.

Now, I am one that does not like to have attention focused on me, but low and behold I was given a surprise party for my Birthday, well it was a few days before my birthday but I knew deep down this was going to happen, and even had a few clues that I was not supposed to have, but in the spirit of their hard work I smiled and looked surprised when I entered the house to the dreaded word being yelled out “SURPRISE!!!!” All in all it turned out very well and we had some good laughs, a few tears and lots of memories. I did warn each and every one of the culprits that pay backs are a real b***h and to remember that when they least expect it… I will be standing on the sidelines with an innocent smile as they reap the benefits of my warning… (cue the halo picture).

I am slowly working on my regrets and accomplishments for the year of 2012 and will be posting this soon. I hope everyone is either in the festive season or beginning to be. Until next time my fellow bloggers. Have fun, stay safe and live, laugh, love!

Lest we forget

                                           Remembrance Day

                        The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month

     

In Flanders Fields - a poem by Dr. John McCrae 

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below. 

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie,

In Flanders fields. 

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

   My favorite picture; my Uncle holding a picture of my Father 

Happy Halloween

This, that, and a little bit of those kinda days

I hope everyone that has been or will be affected by Hurricane Sandy is safe dry and warm. The rains that have been forecasted for my little corner of the world (Southern Ontario Canada) have certainly arrived full force. The weekend was rainy and cool and today they are forecasting the high winds along with, you guessed it, more rain.

Saturday morning was filled with rain, but that didn’t stop me from climbing into the truck and heading to London to wander around the huge flea-market. I picked up a few odds and ends including some farm fresh produce. I did have to really curb my wants when I came across a vendor who was selling puppies. OMG my heart just about melted when I peeked into a crate and saw the most adorable lemon coloured bassist hound. He was so cute and IF I hadn’t been dragged away from that vendor I’m sure that little fellow would have been tucked securely under my coat as I made my way back to the truck. We then made our way to the Sears Outlet store where I was able to start my Christmas Shopping. I really can’t believe that I have actually got more than half my shopping done! A few more things and I will be done. I’m actually very proud of myself since I have changed from that lost person I was a year ago to knowing what road my life needs to take and beginning to strive towards getting on that road. After the shopping in London was done we made our way to a small restaurant called Shelly’s. The décor was fabulous. It was so warm and inviting and the food was amazing. Of course I had to have a chocolate martini to go with dinner and it was the best I had ever tasted. I’m not sure how the bartender made it, but it was really good.  I arrived back home around 7pm, promptly got into my warm pj’s made a hot chocolate and curled up on the couch to relax.

Sunday was once again filled with rain so it was a good day to stay in and do all the much needed housework. As the sounds of music vibrated through every corner of the house I was able to complete the laundry, the vacuuming AND the dusting. Some things never change with me including my love for music. I can’t sing to save my life and I’m sure even the dust bunnies were running for cover as I became a white version of Tina Turner only much much younger, but hey I looked damn good as I strutted in front of the mirror with my trusty old swiffer in one hand and a can of pledge in the other. I have been on a fairly easy going diet lately and the dancing, sweating and constant dancing of housecleaning helped aid in my lack of using the treadmill lately. Over the course of a month I have lost 4lbs and 2 inches off my body. I used to attend zumba classes until I figured out that I can dance and mambo my way around the house on my own, so I got rid of all my zumba things and decided to once again branch out on my own. It seems to be working for me so that’s a bonus. My Doctor and I set a realistic goal for me and as long as I stay focused I will be able to achieve it. It’s amazing how easier it is to have a goal and have only positive re-enforcements’ backing you up. I feel so much better about myself and no longer worry about negative people constantly demeaning every move I make.

This morning I got a call from a dear friend that lifted my spirits even higher. It’s been eons since I talked with them and to hear that familiar voice reaching out over the miles was wonderful. We caught up on everything that has been happening in our lives and even though things have been tough on both sides we were able to be that shoulder each other needed. I felt like I could conquer anything and as we ended the call my friend read a quote to me (that person knows how much I love quotes)that I will take with pleasure; Make sure to surround yourself with people who think you're special who support your dreams and most importantly who accept you for who you are.

During the afternoon I was able to kick back for a change and just relax. I found a few movies kicking around and decided to scare the bejesus out of myself since its Halloween week. With a big blanket, a cushy pillow and a nice big cup of tea I curled up on the couch and turned on Linda Blair in The Exorcist. This version is the one with scenes that were not in the original and even though I have seen it a few times I was still scared senseless. If I hadn’t been scared enough after I watched the Priest throw his self out the window in the Exorcist, I put in The Entity and watched scrunched cowardly under the blanket as Barbara Hershey was being violated by an unseen entity. Now those are classic horror shows in my eyes. I’d never watch them at night, especially alone so the afternoon hours worked well for me….so I’m a chicken!!

With the winds of Sandy starting to blow I’m going be curling up on the couch with the same blanket, a glass of wine, the dog at my feet and a flashlight handy. The flashlight is for “if” the power goes out I won’t have to stumble around looking for it in the dark! Soooooooo “ bring on the rain!”

A Wonderful way to look at life!

This write-up came off my facebook and I thought I'd share it. A very good lesson on whats important in life from a professor to his class.

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, he wordlessly picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full.. The students responded with a unanimous 'yes.'

The professor then produced two Beers from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed.. 'Now,' said the professor as the laughter subsided, 'I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things---your family, your children, your health, your friends and your favorite passions---and if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house and your car.. The sand is everything else---the small stuff. If you put the sand into the jar first,' he continued, 'there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff you will never have room for the things that are important to you.

Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Spend time with your children. Spend time with your parents. Visit with grandparents. Take your spouse out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house and mow the lawn. Take care of the golf balls first---the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand. One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the Beer represented. The professor smiled and said, 'I'm glad you asked.' The Beer just shows you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of Beers with a friend.

A true story

I normally don't post this kind of blog, but if it will help even one parent monitor their child's Internet usage it's worth it to me. Please help put an end to bullying of any kind!

what a heart wrenching "true story"



http://youtu.be/KRxfTyNa24A

Just checking in

Have you ever run into someone from your past, looked at them and then think to yourself oh my god, what happened to you. Well this past weekend I did and was floored by their appearance, so much so that I didn’t even recognize them. I was in the Dollar Store and this woman came up to me and said hi. She seemed genuinely happy to see me and went to hug me but I quickly stepped back not knowing who she was. Before me was this older woman who looked pretty haggard. She weighed all of about 90 lbs and I could tell that life had been very rough on her, or she had been very rough on the life that was given to her. My mind isn’t what it used to be but I did try to get the old cog wheels of my brain in motion and put a name to this person, but I just couldn’t. I kept a smile on my face as she asked how the kids were and especially my oldest daughter. She mentioned the name of one of her kids and then it came to me. I was stunned to say the least. My oldest daughter used to babysit her kids. Now I know I’m getting older and I’m trying to carry my age as best as I can, but hell bells, this woman looked older than I am when in all actuality she is more than a few years younger than me. I think back to the days my daughter babysat for her, and just shake my head sadly. Back then this woman had been beautiful. She was classy and filled with life. The woman standing before me was so far from what I remember her to be that I actually began to feel sad for her. I stepped off to the side of the aisle so we didn’t block the way for other shoppers and without skipping a beat she started in on how her car ran out of gas just outside the store and could she get $5.00 off of me so she could at least get to a gas station. I had this strange feeling that there was no car and since the Liquor Store was right next door I figured she was a few dollars short for her drink of choice. I was going to politely refuse when she began talking about all her medical problems. It seems that she was (and still is in my opinion) addicted to drugs. She was telling me about how she needed to go for some medical treatment on her back and I was shocked when she turned around and slipped the back of her pants down to show me where she needed to get injections. Let’s just say that I and a few other shoppers were able to view the top half of her arse. This was not the classy beautiful woman that I remembered. At this point I just wanted to leave and quickly opened my wallet and handed her the money she needed. She hugged me and quickly left the store. I looked around rather embarrassed and one older gentleman smiled and said “life is what you make it” and then went about his shopping. I too continued on with my shopping trying not to think about what had just happened. I have no clue if there was a car or if she was now at the counter of the liquor store. All I can say is that my life hasn’t been easy and I have felt my fair share of pain and heartbreak and have even struggled through a few medical problems, but I can honestly say I weathered my storms a lot better than she was apparently able to weather hers.

As for what I have been doing with my time since my last blog, well it can be summed up easily, working hard and getting the house ready for the upcoming winter months. There are only a few weeks before Canada’s Thanksgiving and once that is over it will be time to start getting the Christmas shopping started. I know I’ve gotten a few groans with the mention of Christmas, but what can I say, I’m a child at heart. J

Good-Bye Summer of 2012

Here we are once again with another summer coming to a close. It’s hard to believe the final long weekend is upon us. I hope everyone enjoyed the hot humid joke Mother Nature played on us and didn’t suffer too much. I myself had a very good summer and was able to really let loose and enjoy myself for once. This time last year I was dreading the day I would have to walk back into the hallowed halls of my old employment, but as the seasons change, so do our lives. From what I have been reading and from what I have been told, not much has changed in that place. There is still the drama queens running around. It’s so good to walk into my job and know drama isn’t tolerated. So yes, I have survived!!! :)

To kick off the Labour Day long weekend we will be grace by the last “Blue Moon” until 2015 tonight.

 

Saturday we will be going to Port Dover to stroll through the shops before they close for the season and then make our way to have the final perch dinner on the shores of Lake Erie ending off the summer of 2012. The only thing that would make the day the best ever is if my good friend was there and we could take a picture of our feet in the sand. Last time we did that the sand was so hot that it actually burned the bottoms of our feet! Sunday it will be a day of relaxation and then Sunday night there will be a bonfire in our back yard to officially close out the summer. It has rained so there is no fire ban and everyone is looking forward to sitting in front of the fire, laughing chatting and playing guitars. Now usually we have a fish fry, but due to the low levels in the surrounding waters the fish were pretty scarce through the summer. So sadly the fish fry won’t happen.

 

 

 Monday will be another day of relaxing and enjoying the final day of the summer and remember.........

 

            The tans will fade, but the memories will last forever!

 

 

What personality are You????

The Duty Fulfiller

Serious and quiet, interested in security and peaceful living. Extremely thorough, responsible, and dependable. Well-developed powers of concentration. Usually interested in supporting and promoting traditions and establishments. Well-organized and hard working, they work steadily towards identified goals. They can usually accomplish any task once they have set their mind to it.

The Mechanic

Quiet and reserved, interested in how and why things work. Excellent skills with mechanical things. Risk-takers who they live for the moment. Usually interested in and talented at extreme sports. Uncomplicated in their desires. Loyal to their peers and to their internal value systems, but not overly concerned with respecting laws and rules if they get in the way of getting something done. Detached and analytical, they excel at finding solutions to practical problems.

The Nurturer

Quiet, kind, and conscientious. Can be depended on to follow through. Usually puts the needs of others above their own needs. Stable and practical, they value security and traditions. Well-developed sense of space and function. Rich inner world of observations about people. Extremely perceptive of other's feelings. Interested in serving others.

The Artist

Quiet, serious, sensitive and kind. Do not like conflict, and not likely to do things which may generate conflict. Loyal and faithful. Extremely well-developed senses, and aesthetic appreciation for beauty. Not interested in leading or controlling others. Flexible and open-minded. Likely to be original and creative. Enjoy the present moment.

The Protector

Quietly forceful, original, and sensitive. Tend to stick to things until they are done. Extremely intuitive about people, and concerned for their feelings. Well-developed value systems which they strictly adhere to. Well-respected for their perseverance in doing the right thing. Likely to be individualistic, rather than leading or following.

The Idealist

Quiet, reflective, and idealistic. Interested in serving humanity. Well-developed value system, which they strive to live in accordance with. Extremely loyal. Adaptable and laid-back unless a strongly-held value is threatened. Usually talented writers. Mentally quick, and able to see possibilities. Interested in understanding and helping people.

The Scientist

Independent, original, analytical, and determined. Have an exceptional ability to turn theories into solid plans of action. Highly value knowledge, competence, and structure. Driven to derive meaning from their visions. Long-range thinkers. Have very high standards for their performance, and the performance of others. Natural leaders, but will follow if they trust existing leaders.

The Thinker

Logical, original, creative thinkers. Can become very excited about theories and ideas. Exceptionally capable and driven to turn theories into clear understandings. Highly value knowledge, competence and logic. Quiet and reserved, hard to get to know well. Individualistic, having no interest in leading or following others.

The Doer

Friendly, adaptable, action-oriented. "Doers" who are focused on immediate results. Living in the here-and-now, they're risk-takers who live fast-paced lifestyles. Impatient with long explanations. Extremely loyal to their peers, but not usually respectful of laws and rules if they get in the way of getting things done. Great people skills.

The Guardian

Practical, traditional, and organized. Likely to be athletic. Not interested in theory or abstraction unless they see the practical application. Have clear visions of the way things should be. Loyal and hard-working. Like to be in charge. Exceptionally capable in organizing and running activities. "Good citizens" who value security and peaceful living.


The Performer

People-oriented and fun-loving, they make things more fun for others by their enjoyment. Living for the moment, they love new experiences. They dislike theory and impersonal analysis. Interested in serving others. Likely to be the center of attention in social situations. Well-developed common sense and practical ability.

The Caregiver

Whole hearted, popular, and conscientious. Tend to put the needs of others over their own needs. Feel strong sense of responsibility and duty. Value traditions and security. Interested in serving others. Need positive reinforcement to feel good about themselves. Well-developed sense of space and function.

The Inspirer

Enthusiastic, idealistic, and creative. Able to do almost anything that interests them. Great people skills. Need to live life in accordance with their inner values. Excited by new ideas, but bored with details. Open-minded and flexible, with a broad range of interests and abilities.

The Giver

Popular and sensitive, with outstanding people skills. Externally focused, with real concern for how others think and feel. Usually dislike being alone. They see everything from the human angle, and dislike impersonal analysis. Very effective at managing people issues, and leading group discussions. Interested in serving others, and probably place the needs of others over their own needs.

 The Visionary

Creative, resourceful, and intellectually quick. Good at a broad range of things. Enjoy debating issues, and may be into "one-up-manship". They get very excited about new ideas and projects, but may neglect the more routine aspects of life. Generally outspoken and assertive. They enjoy people and are stimulating company. Excellent ability to understand concepts and apply logic to find solutions.

 The Executive

Assertive and outspoken - they are driven to lead. Excellent ability to understand difficult organizational problems and create solid solutions. Intelligent and well-informed, they usually excel at public speaking. They value knowledge and competence, and usually have little patience with inefficiency or disorganization.

This was scent to me by a friend after we started talking about our personalities and how we are seen and or perceived by others. Now before reading this I was pretty sure that I was “The Artist” personality. After reading this I myself have found that I have at least one trait in each personality. Egads I feel like Sybil now!!!!

Lazy Dog Day's of Summer

My dog days of summer have most definitely been one for the books. Some things I would rather not think about but other things have certainly filled my heart with fun, laughter and love. We are going through some pretty hard times, but the love and support from friends far and near have just been wonderful. It’s a damn good feeling knowing that my back has been covered and the outstretched arms are welcoming. So before I start blubbering like an idjit overcome with menopausal emotions I’ll move onto more fun and exciting things. The heat has kept everyone pretty much indoors so not much has really been happening. Our area has had fire bands in place so the usual weekend nightly fires have been put on hold. It doesn’t stop the usual crowd gathering in front of the old chimnea with an out door light casting the pretend firelight laughing and joking around.

I’ve spent some time out at the lake. It’s wonderful when one has a family member that lives right on the shore. I’ve spent some time sunning on the boat, reading while others fish, and trying to keep my skin from turning that shade of bright red. All I can say is thank goodness they have made the sun screen up to SPF 80! My um, *grandchildren* just loves the water so it’s *eagle eye nana* watching over them…lol

I am going camping next weekend and that will help block out a wee bit of the stress of life. I’ll be able to post pictures after next coming weekend. So that’s it for my “Dog Days of Summer” for now at least. I hope everyone is enjoying their summer and I look forward to reading about everyone else’s summer adventures!

 

Ya gotta love Family!

Well the day has come and gone and I’m no worse for the wear. The chuckles, giggles and snorts of laughter added up to my family get-together being a huge success. My Aunt who just turned 78 even braved the heat and came adding to the happiness that filled me. She even remarked that “since I found my balls and left my job that I look so much better and younger.” Of course the “younger” part wasn’t really true, but it put a bigger smile on my face. As the food, drinks and laughter flowed the day just seemed to fly by. Of course there was the usual group of family that sat off to the side and mumbled and gossiped about other people, but this year I was ready for that. I was in my element when I filled up the small plastic pool. I knew Bentley (my dog) was anxiously awaiting a nice cool swim. The pool wasn’t to far from the picnic table, well ok it was almost right beside it, and as soon as the water started to flow from the hose Bentley bounded off the deck and began to frolic and paw at the flowing water sending spurts of wetness towards the picnic table. Of course I had to chastise him and “try” to keep him calm but in all fairness it was hot and well he wanted to cool off so being a responsible pet owner I stood in the pool with him while he rolled around in the water having fun. Well…………….we all know what dogs do when they have wet fur and Bentley is no different. He happily exited the pool when he was cooled off to his liking he promptly shook his body starting from his head to his tail. He’s a golden retriever and definitely has a lot of fur. I’m not sure why, but the gossiping group had a few choice words for Bentley AND me which I in turn I just smiled and exclaimed “damn dog!” The small group was forced to move closer to the others making Bentley’s escapade worth while. All in all the day went really well and after the last guest left I was ready for bed!

It seems that lately I have been running into people from my old job. I ran into someone at the mall and we stopped and chatted for a bit. It seems that one of the Supervisors was fired. It really wasn’t a shock since once you are on someone’s s**t list there, the only door that opens is the exit door. I know this person has her problems for sure and she wasn’t the most mentally put together woman I have worked with, but I do hope all goes well for her. I know this woman gave most people a really hard time and made it almost impossible to work, but no one really knows what goes on inside a person to cause such behaviour. There isn’t one person I worked with, including myself that didn’t carry something bitter and hurtful in their heart. We all have hurts and secrets that we keep deep inside and no one should judge another until they have walked in their shoes. I learned a hard lesson and one that I came to terms with. I just hope the ones that are left judging her will tread lightly least they eat their own words.

There are still a few things that I want to accomplish by the end of summer and I’m really working on them. I hope everyone is having fun, keeping themselves cool and enjoying the summer season.

Just checking in......

Boy did I have a huge laugh yesterday!

As you all know, instead of b****ing and complaining about my job any longer I threw in the towel and walked away. My previous job that is.  Well yesterday I was grocery shopping and ran into a couple who have bi-weekly meetings at the center. They also have a son who attends a sport rental there and well, let’s just say that I was enlightened as to the reasons I left my job. I really wasn’t surprised when they told me what the gossip was and that they never really believed what they had been told. After pulling our carts over to the side of the produce aisle I told them the “true” story of what happened. They just shook their heads in disbelieve and after adding their own thoughts of the staff that work there gave me a hug and told me that I have been missed (damn that certainly made my ego blossom!). Wait…..it gets even better!! Last night I was at my Bother-in-laws house and lo and behold, their Land Lord is also part of a sports group that uses the center on a weekly basis. He was there doing a few repairs and when he seen me he smiled and said hello. He took a coffee break and asked why I was no longer there. I told him exactly what had transpired and needless to say he was rather shocked. He also said that he would enlighten others about this to make sure everyone knew so they could put the nasty gossip to bed once and for all. He said there are a few staff members there who are not well liked within the user groups. Gee, I wonder who they could be??? (lol) It certainly made my day knowing that I was able to let people know the “real” story behind the walls of that building.

Ok so enough of the past and onto the present. I was able to survive the insane heat wave we had..lord help my hydro/electric bill! Now I know some people have very hot temps in the summer, but hells bells I’m from Canada, better known as the land of ice and snow. When the temperatures hit 109 with the heat index I was crying for snow (I’ll probably be reminded of that statement come the middle of winter.) Yes we have central air, but even then it was very uncomfortable. The green grass has turned to brown picky straw making it almost impossible to walk barefoot to the back of the yard. Watering it was just a waste of time since the ground sucked it up faster then the hose allowed the water to squirt out. The rain barrel has almost depleted its stock of water and if we don’t get rain soon the last remaining trickles will dry up like a desert water hole.

In a few weeks I’ll be hosting my annual summer family gathering. This should really make for a fun time (she says sarcastically). Most families talk about the time ole uncle so and so got so drunk or great aunt what’s-her-name complained about the taste of the potato salad. Well my family is a wee bit different. I’ll be dealing with the usual “my sickness is worse than yours, her kids need to really be disciplined or what does he/she see in him/her among a few other things. I swear that the Merriam-Webster Dictionary should apply my family photo along side the word dysfunctional. Don’t get me wrong, I love my family but in very small doses. Thank goodness summer only comes once a year! (and people wonder why I don’t have the traditional family Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners). Oh I’ll get through the day well enough, although I’ll have a secret stash of “calming potion” better known as chilled wine in a secluded area where I can sneak off for a bit. By the end of the day I’ll be smiling my wine induced smile and wishing everyone a safe journey home!

Well that’s it for now. I hope everyone is staying cool and enjoying their hazy, lazy dog days of summer!

A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken.  ~James Dent

Happy Canada Day to all my Canadian Blogger Friends and Family

My New Ride!

An electric bicycle, also known as an e-bike, is a bicycle with an electric motor used to power the vehicle. Electric bicycles use rechargeable batteries and can travel up to 15 to 20 mph (24 to 32 km/h), depending on the laws of the country in which they are sold. In some markets they are rapidly replacing traditional bikes and motorcycles.
In many parts of the world, electric bicycles are classified as bicycles rather than motor vehicles, so they are not subject to the more stringent laws regarding certification and operation of motor vehicles. Electric bicycles are one type of motorized bicycle. However, electric bicycles are defined separately and treated as a specific vehicle type in many areas of legal jurisdiction.
Electric bicycle usage worldwide has experienced rapid growth since 1998. It is estimated that there were roughly 120 million e-bikes in China as of early 2010, and sales are expanding rapidly in India, the United States of America, the Netherlands and Switzerland.
Eight provinces of Canada allow electric power assisted bicycles. A three-year trial in Ontario ended October 2009. In seven of the eight provinces, e-bikes are limited to 500 W output, and cannot travel faster than 32 km/h (20 mph) on motor power alone on level ground. In Alberta the limits are 750 W and 35 km/h (22 mph) Age restrictions vary in Canada. All require an approved helmet. Regulations may or may not require an interlock to prevent use of power when the rider is not pedaling. Some versions (e.g., if capable of operating without pedaling) of e-bikes require drivers' licenses in some provinces and have age restrictions. Vehicle licenses and liability insurance are not required. Generally they are considered vehicles (like motorcycles and pedal cycles), so are subject to the same rules of the road as regular bicycles. In some cases regulatory requirements have been complicated by lobbying in respect of the Segway HT.
Bicycles assisted by a gasoline motor or other fuel are regulated differently than e-bikes. These are classified as motor cycles regardless of the power output of the motor and maximum attainable speed.
I have now joined the ranks of the e-bike riders. J

A little of this and a bit of that....

I know it’s been a bit since I wrote anything but the weather has been so damn hot that even the heat radiating from the laptop seemed to make me break out in a sweat. Anyway, not too much has really happened in my little corner of the world. I did go for my first ever pedicure and what a wonderful relaxing morning that was. I went to this wonderful Spa to have my feet and toes pampered and holy bejesus I almost fell asleep in the suede lounge chair as the young girl massaged not only my toes and feet but my calves as well, and that was all before the pedicure started! Now I am one that has very ticklish feet and I was a bit apprehensive about going, but now I’m hooked. Upon entering the Spa (and yes it was a Spa) I was given a wine glass filled with chilled water and a slice of lime and led back to the Spa room. I was offered a warm neck wrap (I have no idea why, but it felt so good lying around my neck and front part of my shoulders) and was offered a seat on the lounge chair…..then the magic began. Now remember, I have never in my young years had a pedicure and as my feet soaked in a warm bath of fragrant oiled water I began to really like this place. Soft piano music filled the room and the incense and candle light made it extra special. After a 20 minute soak my feet were dried off with a soft towel and the massage began. After that she began the pedicure making my feet nice and pretty for sandal season. After the pedicure she went to the counter and brought back some warm scented liquid paraffin wax. The liquid wax was placed in large baggies and then each foot was placed inside the baggies, wrapped securely and then soft booties were placed on my feet. I lay there for 20 minutes while my feet tingled pleasantly as the warm wax did its job of making my feet nice and soft. The last step was to colour my toenails, apply a shiny coating to the colour and then buff each foot with a fluffy cloth. All I can say is, wow, it was amazing!

Saturday was spent out at Lakeside on Lake Sunova where my oldest daughter lives. It was a wonderful day even though the sun tried to lick its way through the SPF 85 sunblocker. My shoulders, arms and legs were spared but I forgot to apply some to my face and feet. Well, the tops of my feet are red and I do resemble Rudolph a bit, but it was worth it. I did go swimming and my daughter taught me how to water bob. I guess one is never too old to learn the funnier things in life when it comes to new things young people think up. I had no idea what water bobbing was and I looked on in shock as I was shown how to prepare for this fun sport. Now, you have to picture this, a boat anchored in the middle of the lake a group of females ranging in ages from 15 to …well, my age and life jackets. Now to water bob, one must put on their life jackets like a diaper, yes you read that right and clip up BOTH straps on the jacket to secure your arse inside the upside down lifejacket. Then you jump from the boat into the water. At first you do go under but thanks to the floating device it lifts you up above the surface of the water so that you are actually sitting IN the life jacket and bobbing around as the waves gently make you move. There is nothing you have to do. No kicking your feet back and forth or swaying your arms in the water to try and keep yourself buoyant. Its like sitting in a chair, the life jacket does all the work. That is unless you forget to do up BOTH straps to secure yourself into the diaper/life jacket (like I did). Well imagine my shock as I put on the life jacket diaper, clipped the strap closed and said “here goes!” I jumped off the boat and went under for a brief second and was prepared to spend some time water bobbing. Except when I resurfaced I was arse up and my face stayed under water. I fought hard to get my head above water but ended up arse up each time. I flailed helplessly trying to get this old arse to sit IN the lifejacket but to no avail. A few people had to keep me buoyant in an upright position as my fingers worked open the snap that held the jacket closed. Let me tell you, it’s not easy trying to shed a life jacket diaper while you are IN the water. Well I was finally able to free myself, climbed back up into the boat and tried again, this time making sure BOTH clips were securely fastened before jumping back into the water. This time it worked …so we all spent a good while bobbing around in the water just laughing and having a good time. I’m sure the C.A.S of Boating Safety would not approve of this sport but we had fun!

Mother's Warnings!!!!!

The other day I was at the Garden Centre having a wonderful time picking and choosing different flowers for the back yard. I was rather surprised that it wasn’t that crowed but then again it was a wet cool weekend. I had a shopping cart full of flowers when this high pitched cry filled the area. There was a young child of about 5 screaming her head off in the next aisle. I looked around thinking that O.M.G. this child was hurt, but it turned out that her mother wasn’t going to buy her something she wanted, hence the shrill screams of a temper tantrum. I went about my business and then had to stifle a laugh when I heard the mother say as calm as can be that if the child did not stop her crying she would place a For Sale sticker on her forehead and let someone buy her. It seemed to have worked since she stopped the crying. Later that night I began to recall all the warnings my mother said to us kids as we were growing up.

                                                                

If you don't stop crossing your eyes they will stay that way.

Stop picking your nose, your finger will get stuck and when the Doctors pull it out your brains will fall out.

If you fall out of that tree and break your neck, don't come crying to me.

If you want to run away, ill help you pack.

If you keep making that face, it'll freeze that way, and you'll never have any friends.

If you swallow that gum, it'll take at least 7 years to digest, and then it still may gum up your insides.

Always make sure you wear clean underwear, you never know when you’ll be in an accident.

It’s always funny until someone loses an eye.

Once you go all the way, you can’t go back to holding hands.

Clean your plate, think of all the starving people in the world that would love to eat what you do.

Stop that crying or I'll give you something to cry about.

I hope you have a kid just like you.

Don't go swimming for 30 minutes after eating or you’ll drown.

A Thank you to JoJo

Wow, I’m honoured that JoJo from http://tahomabeadworks.blogspot.ca/ has nominated and given me one of the 15 “The Versatile Blogger Awards”. Thank you JoJo  it was very appreciated. J.

                                                           

It’s really not that easy to come up with a few facts about yourself that not to many people know about but I’ll do my best.

1. When I was about 10 years old I was at a Military Museum where I found a hat and proudly put it on to show my dad. I walked around this Museum with this hat on my head; little did I know it was part of the Army under clothes. I was wearing a Jock Strap on my head!

2. I really dislike when people are late and have no real excuse for it.

      3.  Sometimes my mouth speaks even before my brain has a chance to actually sort out what

           I’m really meaning to say.

4. I love to debate religion with my Mother-in-Law since we are on different sides of the fence with this subject. I find it um rather amazing when her eyes seem to turn red and she is at a loss for words for a change.

5. I’m a very emotional person. Sometimes that’s not so good and being Irish Canadian doesn’t help (I do tend to have a potty mouth)

6. When I grow up I want to be a writer and maybe just maybe have something published or I might want to become a Private Investigator. I love to solve crimes!

7. And finally I am me, I will always be me. I will not pretend to be something I’m not so others will like me.

So there you have it. Just a few facts about me. Have a wonderful great week ahead everyone and always remember………

If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun.

Now here are my Nominees for this award.

http://muskokariver.blogspot.ca

http://alpenwasser.blogspot.ca

http://myworldaccordingtomeii.blogspot.ca

http://nellievaughn.blogspot.ca

http://www.janesinfinitewisdom.com

http://reasonable-thought.blogspot.ca

http://crackyouwhip.blogspot.ca

Another item off my Bucket List :)

Another item has now been scratched off my Bucket List. I rode on the Maid of the Mist in Niagara Falls. It has to be the most awesome experience I have had in a long time. Being down inside the gorge with the thunderous sounds of tons of water rushing downwards makes one feel almost insignificant. It’s breathtaking as you look up to the observation walkway where people are in awe as they look over at the falls. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.

I also took another trip to Port Dover with my good friend. This time we had drinks on the restaurant deck overlooking the lake and enjoyed a perch dinner. The weather was awesome, company was wonderful and food and drinks were, well very yummy. Who knew 3 shots of rum in a single drink could make me see a duck that quacks? (lol) Our next visit promises to be filled with just as many laughs and good times.

                                                                                 

                                                                                                                                                                    
I hope everyone has a wonderful week.

Live life fully while you're here. Experience everything. Take care of yourself and your friends. Have fun, be crazy, be weird. Go out and screw up! You're going to anyway, so you might as well enjoy the process. Take the opportunity to learn from your mistakes: find the cause of your problem and eliminate it. Don't try to be perfect; just be an excellent example of being human.”

Anthony Robbins