Day 7 of January

Well these past two days have certainly been filled with a wide gammet of news.
Friday night was "my night." Janice graciously agreed to help me achieve another activity on my 50 list. "To sing Kareokee, in an actual kareokee bar." We went to Ducky's (not the office furniture place) and what a great time. Janice's friend Sam is a regular there, so he was our guide. The place was busy when we got there at 9:00 pm and it was still packed when we left at 1:00 am. So I got the chance to do two songs. A Farmer's Daughter song, and a Brian Whyte song. I was a little nervous, but learned a very valuable lesson. If you really don't want to be heard, pick a popular song, and the entire clientelle sings along. The variety in the place was astounding - from the people -age, gender, degree of drunkenness to the music it's self - country, show tunes, pop, rap; to the quality of singers - and everyone got applause!!!
We took a cab to and from the bar, and thankfully the driver bringing up home had his snow tires on because the amount of snow that had fallen was unbelievable. I did have a little scare after we got home; I went and shut down everything in my office and basement; then I went upstairs and couldn't find Janice. I called a few times; checked the upstairs, and finally I heard Maya bark downstairs; seems Janice had already fallen asleep (or passed out) on the couch.
So Saturday day was a lazy day for me - very non eventful - until I called Mom. She had been worried about me (apparently not enough to call me) because she heard on the news that there had been a home invasion robbery in the Hamptons!!!! Just what I wanted to hear!!!!! Then I get off the phone with Mom and Patrick calls. They won there first game this morning but lost their second game in the afternoon. But I could sense from his voice that there was something else he needed to tell me. (my first clue was when he actually phoned me, cause that never happens at a tournament) Seems he may have dislocated he knee in the second game. I guess he's out of the rest of the tournament. Thankfully he's not in pain and his spirits seem good!!!

In looking at my 50 list, I see that I am a little behind in reporting what has been accomplished.
So in additional to the Kareokee, here are some more to cross off.
Make a cheesecake (it was delicious)
Visit a pshyic (not one of my better readings)
Buy a thumb ring (didn't spend a lot of money - and off course it broke)
Color a velvet Doodle Art (was a favorite pastime when I was kid)
Keegal balls ( use when I do my treadmill)
Organize home videos on CD (I love putting them in the computer to watch)
Visit old house in Westgate (drive by counts)
Learn to Line Dance (went from sept 2009-May 2010)

So that is 17 items off the list - only 33 to go!

So I think It's time I head to bed and pick up a good book.

Night
Stacey

Day 6 of January

It is a very very small world!!! Just got off the phone with my Mom and she is so excited. She met a new lady at the manor today. This lady just moved up from Lethbridge and a senior's center there. Turns out the lady is from ..... Wait...... Carmangay!!! You can imagine Mom's shock and surprise. Of course after a few inquiries, turns out Mom went to school with this lady's brothers. In all the excitement, mom forgot to ask was her new friend's name was... Now, this might not seem like a big deal, but for those who don't know the significance, Carmanger is a very, very small town. Many people have never heard of it, so when you know someone, who even knows the name, there is a good chance you know the some of the same people. You could hear the joy in Mom's voice as she was telling the story. The even better news, mom and this lady are taking the seniors bus and going to the mall tomorrow!!!!! Mom has lived in this place for three years now, and has taken the bus maybe three times. I am so excited for mom - just to have a connection. (Cindy I know you can appreciate this story) The name of the family is the McLeods - Roy and Wendell were the brothers Mom went to school with and I believe June is the lady mom met)
Doesn't take much to get me happy, but at my age, when my children are content and my Mom is content, then I too am content.
Looking forward to a relaxing weekend. Bill is off to Florida for a family wedding. Patrick is off to Red Deer for a soccer tournament, and I am going to be getting together with my sister-in-laws to make some dumplings for Chinese New Year!!!!!
Also have another great secret, but can't share it just yet. It should happen within the next two weeks, so will talk about it then. It involves one of the children, and makes me very proud!!!!
Had a great time at the preschool this week. Have a wonderful story to share about a little boy. This little guy turned four in September. His Mom was the volunteer on Tuesday. She told us this story, and it brought tears to my eyes. The son is still reluctant to use the toilet for pooping - for whatever reason. So for the past little while they have been praying to God to help "Son" get over any fears and help him to remember. So that morning, the son wakes up and as usual, goes poop in his pull up. The Mom asks him, "why did you poop in your pull-up!" The son says "Mom I have prayed to God to help me, but he is busy fixing my heart!!!" Next ask a question if you don't want to hear the answer.

Watched an episode of American Idol last night (first time this season) It is still auditions; I think they are in Milwalkee - anyway they had this young 16 year old - and his voice is absolutely amazing - he is a country singer - and I wouldn't be surprised if he ends up being the next American Idol. If you didn't see it, try googling it or waiting for the elimination rounds.

Off to clean up my office
Night!
Stacey

Day 5 of January

Sunday sure went by fast! At the beginning of the week, I told myself I was going to relax on Sunday - funny how plans change.
Went to vist my Mom yesterday. She has been paitently waiting for me to show her how to knit with the loom she got for her birthday (in November). So that was my goal. Packed up my knitting and thought we spend a little quality time. Change of plans. Seems mom needed to go grocery shopping. In actual fact, I think she just wanted to get out. So thats what we did instead. By the looks of her shopping cart - she wasn't in dire need of groceries. Everything she got was not her usual staples. I guess knitting with the loom will be for another day. We ran into her cousin while at the grocery store. This is about the third time we've seen Leone. I had to laugh when Mom said something like "Stacey took me shopping today, because she's the only one not busy!!!" Maybe I need another job! hahaha. I turned to Leone and said "and I'm also the only one who has no one left at home to take care of!" Not sure she caught the sarcasm.
Speaking of other ones to take care off. The son asked me a "heart warming" question this morning. While eating breakfast he said "Mom, do you think I'm smart enough to get into Med school?" No here is the difference between and "glass half full and glass half empty" comment. I said , without hesitating "Absolutely - you can do anything you set your mind too." Bill's answer - after a brief pause "If you work hard at it." I guess it's the same answer - in the end.
Haven't heard from the daughter all week. I notice today she has been on Facebook, so she's still alive. I didn't think I'd ever get to the point where I wouldn't be bothering her all the time. I know she'll call when she needs me.
I just finished a book on tape. It is Portia DeRossi's autobiography. Unbearable Lightness: A Story of Loss and Gain. It was good. I didn't really know of the lady until she married Ellen (I didn't follow Ally McBeal) Anyway she talks about her battle with eating disorders. At the end, she makes a valid point - habitual dieters basically have an eating disorder!! I can so see that. Anyway if anyone would like to listen to this book. let me know and I can lend it to you. I have two other books on the go (reading) and Keith Richards on CD is my next listening book.

Tomorrow the son is writing his Bio exam, so I guess I'll be carless again. (Makes me get stuff done around the house.)

Night
Stacey

Day 4 of January

Brrrrr - still cold in the city! I think it's time to start the count down to Mexico!!!!
The weekend was nice and relaxing. Back on my lean cuisine meal plan. Of course that doesn't include tonight. Had a nice dinner with Shaunan at Boston Pizza. This was after we enjoyed a play at Vertigo Theatre. Wow - a musical on the life of Edgar Allan Poe. Very well done and I was in heaven as most of the dialogue was down in rhythm. I had no knowledge of the biography of this gentleman, other than some of his "stories." When I got home, I looked up his history, and the play was very close to what has been written. There were 4 men and 3 ladies in the cast, and they played all the roles very well. I really am expanding my "literature culture" - three plays in the last three months.
Saturday night I was supposed to cover at another Chapters for a lady, but it turns out, the store wasn't ready for me. Good thing I took my own vehicle, otherwise I would have been waiting around for Bill and Patrick to pick me up. Where were they? you ask.. Well Patrick had a soccer game - a very important game (in Patrick's mind) And they won - and Patrick scored the winning goal. I don't think I can explain the mental importance of this game to my son - (at least not in 2000 words or less), so lets just say, he could never score another goal in his life, and he'll be satisfied!!! And according to Patrick, the entire team had a great game - hopefully this moral boost will last the rest of the season!!!
Enough about soccer!!!
I had a weird experience in the play today. I was sitting with my girlfriend - she was to the right on me. I can't remember the exact time now (before or after intermission) But at one point, I swear I felt a hand on my shoulder. Not a tap, not a tug, but a firm "rested" hand. Now it could have been the "heat of the moment" in the play. But it was real enough, that I turned my head to see if someone was behind me! Nope - nothing! Hmmmm. Hopefully Edgar himself wasn't checking out the play as well.

Well, my bed is calling my name - (great - now I'm hearing things too)

til day 5 of January.

Stacey

Day 3 of January

Well this is my third day of the blog this year, but the first blog on my new computer. I finally got my desk and office cleaned up and out that I felt at peace with setting up the laptop. To be completely honest, Bill actually did all the setting up. My goal is to figure out how everything works - Microsoft 7 and all! Ideally, if I could keep Patrick off this computer, I might be able to keep the viruses at bay.
So Friday is almost here and it has been a cold week. But I'm not complaining - weather wise, we are pretty well off compared to many parts of the world. One just has to keep reminding themselves that spring is just around the corner.
Ashley headed back to school on Tuesday. Her flight was delayed so she never actually got home until 4:00 am Wednesday morning. I haven't gotten up the nerve to enter her room to clean up. I'll save that for a day project.
Patrick's busy with exams and prep courses. I've never seen him so dedicated before. This is the same boy, who in grade six, failed an open book exams because he couldn't find his notes in his desk. He has been conditionally accepted to one University so far. He's just waiting to here from the rest. I wonder how much it costs to fly to Nova Scotia 4 times a year!!!!! - and we thought Peterborough was far. I'm getting a feeling that our kids are anxious to move far, far away!!!!
Well i better get working on a very belated birthday card/gift - if I could only remember where I put it!!!!!!
Stacey

Day 2 of January

Well I made it through the first typical week. Well technically it wasn't typical - Ashley is still here and I haven't started back with soccer. But the point is I made it.
Patrick is back at school and I'm just in awe of his "when I think of the word, I'll put it in here." He has stepped up to the plate regarding his education. This is the same boy, who in grade six, failed an open book test, because he couldn't find his notes in his messy desk. Don't get me wrong, but his room is just as messy as his desk ever was, but something has changed in him; something has matured; he's making all these life important decisions, that somehow I didn't think he was even thinking about. He's applied to two different universities - one on each coast; he's taking diploma prep exams for his core subjects; he thinking of re-taking math on=line to better he overall mark. I'm pretty sure it's my son - but it's like he been invaded with "responsibility zombies" (ok, just one too many zombie movies I've watched with Bill) Anyway, what ever the outcome, I'm so very proud of this young man (almost 18 year old)
Ashley is still visiting or I guess Ashley is still at home. She leaves Tuesday - and I think she's glad. She misses her friends and roommates. I also think she has been accustomed to not having to drive half way across town to do anything. She won't be back to Calgary now until school is finished.
And then there is Mr. Bill. My Bill is back - from where - I'm not sure - but he's back - he's smiling - he's joking - he's considerate - he's enjoying life and he's relaxing (as best that he knows how)

Well I have another item to cross off my 50 list. Last night Bill, and I and the kids went to the top of the Calgary Tower for dinner. My kids have never been. I have been once when I was younger. I think it was a school field trip. Anyway, we did it. It was clouding so not a great view outside of downtown. But by the time I got to dinner - I was feelig like I was on a cruise ship - the wind was so strong. I was a little disappointed. I expected more. I mean if I were out of town, and paid 15.99 to come up to the top and there is nothing there but a gift shop, smaller than one at an airport, I would have thought it a rip off. Maybe I'm just cynical in my old age. The food was good; service was slow; despite there only being maybe 5 couples in the entire restaraunt. So, it's off my list, and it won't be added soon. Can't wait for Ashley to send me the pictures.

Today is clean the kitchen day - floor, chairs, everything (bill's idea, not mine)

Have a great week.

Stacey

Day 1 of January

Happy New Year to Everyone! I began to wonder "Why do we say Happy New Year!" What better way to find out then using my favorite "encyclopedia" Google. Here are a few traditions:
Hogmanay (Scotland)
The birthplace of "Auld Lang Syne" is also the home of Hogmanay the rousing Scottish New Year's celebration (the origins of the name are obscure). One of the traditions is "first-footing." Shortly after midnight on New Year's eve, neighbors pay visits to each other and impart New Year's wishes. Traditionally, First foots used to bring along a gift of coal for the fire, or shortbread. It is considered especially lucky if a tall, dark, and handsome man is the first to enter your house after the new year is rung in. The Edinburgh Hogmanay celebration is the largest in the country, and consists of an all-night street party
Oshogatsu (Japan)
The new year is the most important holiday in Japan, and is a symbol of renewal. In December, various Bonenkai or "forget-the-year parties" are held to bid farewell to the problems and concerns of the past year and prepare for a new beginning. Misunderstandings and grudges are forgiven and houses are scrubbed. At midnight on Dec. 31, Buddhist temples strike their gongs 108 times, in a effort to expel 108 types of human weakness. New Year's day itself is a day of joy and no work is to be done. Children receive otoshidamas, small gifts with money inside. Sending New Year's cards is a popular tradition—if postmarked by a certain date, the Japanese post office guarantees delivery of all New Year's cards on Jan. 1.
Spain
The Spanish ritual on New Year's eve is to eat twelve grapes at midnight. The tradition is meant to secure twelve happy months in the coming year.
The Netherlands
The Dutch burn bonfires of Christmas trees on the street and launch fireworks. The fires are meant to purge the old and welcome the new.
Greece
In Greece, New Year's day is also the Festival of St. Basil, one of the founders of the Greek Orthodox Church. One of the traditional foods served is Vassilopitta, or St Basil's cake. A silver or gold coin is baked inside the cake. Whoever finds the coin in their piece of cake will be especially lucky during the coming year.

Well at our house there we didn't receive coal or shortbread (although Susie brought the shortbread at Christmas) and there was no tall, dark, handsome man that entered the house after midnight. (there were a few cute ones that entered before midnight) The house wasn't scrubbed clean (that's on my todo list) and nobody was striking any gongs and if they did, it would have been alot more than 108 times!!! I don't believe anyone ate any grapes - but if we were counting margarita's I might have been close to 12! Burning down the Christmas tree was on my mind, but somehow I didn't think it would be environmentally safe considering what they are made of these days! And I didn't find any gold coins in any baked goods. But I better check the banana loaf that susie brought over!!!!
So what did we do for New Years!!!! Well Bill didn't want a party - so we didn't have a party. I did invite Anne and Brian and Susan over. Also Wayne and Susie joined us. Patrick and his girlfriend also joined the "non party!" Ashley went out with friends. We played a new "non" party game - Apples to Apples. Alisa introduced us to this game last year and this year. So that's what we played. It was so much fun. Needless to say, I didn't win any of the rounds.
I did make a New Year's resolution this year. Normally I don't, but this year it just seemed appropriate. I resolved to never leave a spoon (specifically a porcelain chinese soup spoon) in the blender any more. Why you might ask. Well after my first batch of margaritas I conveniently left the spoon in the mixer waiting to make the next batch. But after a blender of margaritas one tends to forgot there was even a spoon used. While I watched the second batch of spirit's, I thought my blender was breaking. I could have a tapping sound - and it was only after 30 odd seconds I remember the missing spoon. Well the spoon is still missing - but based on three small 1/2 inch pieces, I'm pretty sure I could guess where the spoon is. What a waste of tequila!
So that is how the new year started. I'd like to include a quote that I found in a book I received from my good friend Shaunan. The book is called "The Friendship Book" It's a a thought for each day in 2011.
Monday January 3
A traveller once asked a wise man sitting at the city walls what the people inside were like. "What are the people like in the city you come from?" replied the wise man. The stranger then pondered a moment. "They're generous and kind, they're patient and good folk," he said. "Well that's how you'll find them here, " the wise man said.
A few days later another traveller came to the city and asked the wise man the same question. "What are the people like in the city you come from?" the wise man wanted to know. Again there was some hesitation. "The people are fairly mean, and grumpy a lot and pretty miserable." "Well," said the wise man, "that's just how you'll find people here!"

How true this is

Till the next blog.
Stacey