Where to start??
It has been a very relaxing week for me. Today was one of those dododododo days. I was asked to help out at a Shoppers Drug Mart in the NW with the card change over from Christmas to Valentine's Day. My sister Robin met me there to get an idea of what it is that has me memorized for a couple of hours a day. While we were putting up cards, this distinguished gentleman with long gray hair and gray beard walked by us. Without looking at Robin, I turned to get a better look, and before the guy got a foot away from me I said "Excuse me, would your name be Mr. Olsen - Mr. Olsen from King George Elementary and Junior High?" With a startled look in his eye - he answered yes. Now we are talking 37 - 39 years ago that Mr. Olsen was a "hot" teacher in our junior high class. He taught the special needs class and the art classes. I even had the nerve to ask him how come he couldn't remember me - even if he did teach over 1,000 in his teaching career. After a bit of ongoing reminicing, he mentioned he was actually having lunch tomorrow with two other teachers from King George - coincidence - only if that means "It was meant to be!" I introduced him to Robin, because she also went to King George, but three years earlier than I. We said our good-byes and then I turned to Robin, and although she didn't speak out, she too thought she recognized the gentleman as Mr. Olsen. We starting chatting, and I told her I should have mentioned to Mr. Olsen that all the girls in Junior High had a crush on him. I think Robin was glad I didn't. Then Mr. Olsen returned to find out my name - first and last, so he could mention it to the teachers at his lunch. Without hesitation, I told him that all the junior high girls had a crush on him. I think he blushed and I didn't quite hear his comment. After he left again, Robin gave me a jab on the arm. Maybe she was blushing too. My only thought was, really I haven't seen the guy in how many years, when will I see him again. It wasn't until I was driving home when I realized, he must be in his 60's now, or even older. But when we were in school he was old then (maybe it was his distinguished gray hair and mustache back then - and did I mention he was hot)!!! Even as I write it now, it brings a smile to my face. He is an artist now, Glen Olsen, http://www.glennolson.net/about.html, check out his website if you get a chance. A very inspirational man then and now!
So came home and cleaned up a bit; then it was time to pick up Patrick from soccer coaching. I guess my mom duties were just on hold. Off to meet Robin, Alisa and Miss Caylee for some supper at Boston Pizza - nothing like a little Caylee time (and Alisa time - cause she reads this) to finish off the day.
Still smiling!
Stacey
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
Day 6 of december
First a quick sorry to De for getting my facts confused - I was googling the Globe and Mail which is an Eastern newspaper!!!! my bad. That is the second time google has given me wrong info. (see below)
(Depending on where you are in the world, December 21 or 22 marks the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere: the official beginning of winter, and the longest night of the year. (In Canada, the switch happens either late at night on the 21st, or early in the morning on the 22nd; for those on Eastern Standard Time, the new season begins at 12:30 a.m. December 22). )
So it is 6:30 pm boxing day and i am still in my pajamas. Was awake early; ate my breakfast and went back to bed. I had one snooze on the couch and have been pretty much putzing about the remainder of the day.
So I'm going to take us back to Chrismtas Eve. The Christmas tree is sparkling brightly; Ashley is at Ethan's house for dinner with his family and then playing video games; Patrick is out for dinner with Stephanie and her family and Bill at 8;45 pm is in bed!!!!!!!! Ho Ho ho. Santa could have stopped at our house first. I would have been the only one to see him. I think I now know who the song "I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus" got started!!!!!!
It was until a few hours later, when I finally climbed into bed, and then the noise began; Ashley came home and decided to clean out her car (after 6 months of living out of it). Patrick comes home alittle bit later with his girlfriend so they could exchange Christmas gifts. I should have just stayed awake until everyone was home.
Bill and I both slept in on Christmas morning; if you call8:30 am as sleeping in. We made an executive decision that the kids should be awake early as well; to teach them a Chrismtas lesson - or maybe it was just payback for when they were little and would want to get up early. So we sent Maya downstairs to share her puppy kisses with both. It didn't take them long to get out of bed.
The morning went smoothly with only a couple of instances that stood out. The first one was Ashley. She was in charge of handing out the gifts and she leaned over and poked her eye with a tree branch. Not the brightest star on the tree.....
the other cute moment was Maya. Last year Ashley opened her toy and Maya was so excited. This year, whenever Maya heard Ashley ripping the paper, she thought the gift was for her - what a memory. We all forget to get Maya something, except Patrick - Santa's helper. But instead of wrapping up her toy, he put it in a tiny bag. Ashley kept the gift on her lap and while she was handing out other gifts, Maya walked onto her lap and grabbed the handle of the bag in her mouth and went and sat down. She spent the next ten minutes trying to pull this stuffed toy out of the bag, and once she did, she wouldn't get close enough to Ashley so she could cut the tags off. She really is one of the family.
We cleaned up a little bit afterwards and then a few had naps. I proceeded to get things ready for our Christmas dinner at Robins.
The Christmas dinner at Robins was wonderful. Despite being a small place (with all the levels, it is actually a great size), we fit 18 people in the basement for a sit down dinner. The food was great, the company was great, and the Christmas spirit was everywhere. Hats off to my sister, who can pull something off so big, and make it seem effortless! Of course the biggest highlight of the evening was little Miss Caylee. Caylee will be three in April, but she is the most polite, curious, smart girl. She can work a camera phone like a pro. I want to share a comment that Patrick made to me when we got into our car. And remember this is an 18 year old boy. He says "Mom, Caylee is so cute and well behaved!" Alisa's done a great job, she's a great mother!" I agreed completely and praised him for his great observance!
After we left Robin's we headed for a quick visit to Ben and Karen's to see the Wee half. We were there for an hour or two. Linden was already in bed and eveyone was getting tired. I was glad to get home and climb into my bed last night. It was the best sleep I've had in the past few weeks.
Now it is the countdown to New Years!!!!!!!
Stacey
(Depending on where you are in the world, December 21 or 22 marks the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere: the official beginning of winter, and the longest night of the year. (In Canada, the switch happens either late at night on the 21st, or early in the morning on the 22nd; for those on Eastern Standard Time, the new season begins at 12:30 a.m. December 22). )
So it is 6:30 pm boxing day and i am still in my pajamas. Was awake early; ate my breakfast and went back to bed. I had one snooze on the couch and have been pretty much putzing about the remainder of the day.
So I'm going to take us back to Chrismtas Eve. The Christmas tree is sparkling brightly; Ashley is at Ethan's house for dinner with his family and then playing video games; Patrick is out for dinner with Stephanie and her family and Bill at 8;45 pm is in bed!!!!!!!! Ho Ho ho. Santa could have stopped at our house first. I would have been the only one to see him. I think I now know who the song "I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus" got started!!!!!!
It was until a few hours later, when I finally climbed into bed, and then the noise began; Ashley came home and decided to clean out her car (after 6 months of living out of it). Patrick comes home alittle bit later with his girlfriend so they could exchange Christmas gifts. I should have just stayed awake until everyone was home.
Bill and I both slept in on Christmas morning; if you call8:30 am as sleeping in. We made an executive decision that the kids should be awake early as well; to teach them a Chrismtas lesson - or maybe it was just payback for when they were little and would want to get up early. So we sent Maya downstairs to share her puppy kisses with both. It didn't take them long to get out of bed.
The morning went smoothly with only a couple of instances that stood out. The first one was Ashley. She was in charge of handing out the gifts and she leaned over and poked her eye with a tree branch. Not the brightest star on the tree.....
the other cute moment was Maya. Last year Ashley opened her toy and Maya was so excited. This year, whenever Maya heard Ashley ripping the paper, she thought the gift was for her - what a memory. We all forget to get Maya something, except Patrick - Santa's helper. But instead of wrapping up her toy, he put it in a tiny bag. Ashley kept the gift on her lap and while she was handing out other gifts, Maya walked onto her lap and grabbed the handle of the bag in her mouth and went and sat down. She spent the next ten minutes trying to pull this stuffed toy out of the bag, and once she did, she wouldn't get close enough to Ashley so she could cut the tags off. She really is one of the family.
We cleaned up a little bit afterwards and then a few had naps. I proceeded to get things ready for our Christmas dinner at Robins.
The Christmas dinner at Robins was wonderful. Despite being a small place (with all the levels, it is actually a great size), we fit 18 people in the basement for a sit down dinner. The food was great, the company was great, and the Christmas spirit was everywhere. Hats off to my sister, who can pull something off so big, and make it seem effortless! Of course the biggest highlight of the evening was little Miss Caylee. Caylee will be three in April, but she is the most polite, curious, smart girl. She can work a camera phone like a pro. I want to share a comment that Patrick made to me when we got into our car. And remember this is an 18 year old boy. He says "Mom, Caylee is so cute and well behaved!" Alisa's done a great job, she's a great mother!" I agreed completely and praised him for his great observance!
After we left Robin's we headed for a quick visit to Ben and Karen's to see the Wee half. We were there for an hour or two. Linden was already in bed and eveyone was getting tired. I was glad to get home and climb into my bed last night. It was the best sleep I've had in the past few weeks.
Now it is the countdown to New Years!!!!!!!
Stacey
Monday, December 19, 2011
Day 5 of December
Wow ... 6 days until Christmas.
Even better, December 22nd is the shortest day of the year - meaning, the days will soon be lighter-longer and before we know it spring will be here and bye bye to the winter blues for everyone.
Memories: December 23rd, 1994 was when we lost my Uncle Casey; This was my only uncle on my Dad's side of the family. Uncle Casey was quite a character - as far as I can remember he was always old. But my best memory of him is the way Auntie Bea always took care of him - "oh Casey" she would say. If my calculations are correct, Auntie Bea will be turning 100 next year.
On December 30, 1971 - My Grandfather Jim Fraser passed away. I feel like I should say my Grandpa, but I really didn't know the man. I was 10 years old when he passed away, and I don't have any recollection of interaction with him. Wait, thats not true - what I do remember was he would be sleeping in his chair in the living room and I would need to go upstairs and I would try and tip toe past him, as quietly as possible and he would open his eyes and jump. Up until this very moment I used to think he was trying to scare me - but when writing and talking about it, really, maybe that was his way of trying to be funny - only to a little girl, it was scary. That might explain why he did it all the time. the other memory is very similar to Uncle Casey's, in that I can remember Grandma always calling him "Daddy". In reflecting, the woman may not have seemed strong woman at the time, but they took care of their husbands; out lived them and, went on to be very indepandant people.
Anyway, speaking of strong woman, i am reading a new book. It is the Diane Keaton biography "Then Again!" I haven't gotten too far in it, but I have been inspired already. Diane writes a lot about her mother and one of the things her mother recommended is that everyone should write their own autobiography. She kept many journals and by putting them together, Diane was able to get a glimpse of her mother's life. Hmmmm. I see something coming out of this. I'm thinking, maybe beginning in the new year - I might start my own autobiography - go through all my journals etc. Even thinking ab0ut it now has my head spinning - remembering this, remembering that.......
First to get through Christmas........ and enjoy it to it's fullest.
Stacey
Even better, December 22nd is the shortest day of the year - meaning, the days will soon be lighter-longer and before we know it spring will be here and bye bye to the winter blues for everyone.
Memories: December 23rd, 1994 was when we lost my Uncle Casey; This was my only uncle on my Dad's side of the family. Uncle Casey was quite a character - as far as I can remember he was always old. But my best memory of him is the way Auntie Bea always took care of him - "oh Casey" she would say. If my calculations are correct, Auntie Bea will be turning 100 next year.
On December 30, 1971 - My Grandfather Jim Fraser passed away. I feel like I should say my Grandpa, but I really didn't know the man. I was 10 years old when he passed away, and I don't have any recollection of interaction with him. Wait, thats not true - what I do remember was he would be sleeping in his chair in the living room and I would need to go upstairs and I would try and tip toe past him, as quietly as possible and he would open his eyes and jump. Up until this very moment I used to think he was trying to scare me - but when writing and talking about it, really, maybe that was his way of trying to be funny - only to a little girl, it was scary. That might explain why he did it all the time. the other memory is very similar to Uncle Casey's, in that I can remember Grandma always calling him "Daddy". In reflecting, the woman may not have seemed strong woman at the time, but they took care of their husbands; out lived them and, went on to be very indepandant people.
Anyway, speaking of strong woman, i am reading a new book. It is the Diane Keaton biography "Then Again!" I haven't gotten too far in it, but I have been inspired already. Diane writes a lot about her mother and one of the things her mother recommended is that everyone should write their own autobiography. She kept many journals and by putting them together, Diane was able to get a glimpse of her mother's life. Hmmmm. I see something coming out of this. I'm thinking, maybe beginning in the new year - I might start my own autobiography - go through all my journals etc. Even thinking ab0ut it now has my head spinning - remembering this, remembering that.......
First to get through Christmas........ and enjoy it to it's fullest.
Stacey
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Day 4 of December
Memories: Last night - Prince - totally was not on our schedule. When we first heard Prince was coming to Calgary, Bill was on the bandwagon. Of course we checked out he tickets and by the time we looked them up - there were floor tickets available (at the very back) or first section tickets, but behind the stage. Hmmm - there were even a few V I P tickets in the table section right by the stage. After humming and hawwwwing - we realized we were too late to get good seats for the value. Disappointed - yes; devistated - not. So around 4:30 Wednesday afternoon, I get a text from Bill (must be important because Bill never texts me) He won two tickets in a draw a work - Do we want to go? My mind immediately says YES; but my body is going - I'm too old for this. But we went and had a great time. I did come to realize that I am still a Michael Jackson fan - back when Prince was popular, he and Michael were rivals and I always preferred Michael. And of course when you go to a concert with Bill you are guaranteed two things - one - he sits during the entire concert (even when there are people standing in front of him) and two, he'll run into somebody he knows. And we did. A couple came and sat beside Bill and turns out he knew the girl from the industry when he was employeed with Temple Energy. Of course I recognized the gentleman from somewhere, but couldn't put my finger on it until he introduced himself. Jamie Macoun - I was pretty sure he used to be a Flames hockey player - and sure enough - he was. I even went to my faithful source when I got home to confirm. Yup!!!
Nap anyone!!!
Stacey
Nap anyone!!!
Stacey
Monday, December 12, 2011
Day 3 of December
I know - two days in a row. Some of you may have to pick yourselves up off the floor.
Two important things to talk about.
First, I learned something new from my son last night - hmh. Now if anyone knows what this means - my hat goes off to you. I had to drag it out of my son. We were communicating through Facebook. (not sure why we have the family plan on the cell phones) I reminded Patrick to book his shuttle bus to the airport. His reply - mhm. I asked him what it meant - he said to sound it out. So I tried. I got mmm ha mmmm. Again I asked him and his answer was - hahahahaha ask Ashley. Really!!! Of course Ashley wasn't home and I wasn't about to go away without knowing. So I asked if it was the same as saying uh huh without moving your lips. taaa daaa, I got it. So now I've figured it out, but the mom in me couldn't leave it alone - what was the point of mhm - and then not wanting to explain it. If it was not wanting to type too many letters, you would think OK, would have been easier. When I mentioned this theory - all I got was sarcasam......So you want me to type less!!!!! Remember, All I was trying to do was remind him to book his shuttle bus . I should have used my favorite answer finder "Google" because sure enough, thats what shows up. WTH (what the heck) and IGU (I give up)
Well that was last night - and this morning is this morning. And what a good start it was. Bill left around 6:00 am and I turned on the radio and won the wake up call on country 105. Tickets to Jubilations Dinner Theatre and a yearly pass to Heritage Park. All it takes is a LPE (little positive energy)
I think I'll start a dictionary of my own letters.
L (later)
Stacey
Two important things to talk about.
First, I learned something new from my son last night - hmh. Now if anyone knows what this means - my hat goes off to you. I had to drag it out of my son. We were communicating through Facebook. (not sure why we have the family plan on the cell phones) I reminded Patrick to book his shuttle bus to the airport. His reply - mhm. I asked him what it meant - he said to sound it out. So I tried. I got mmm ha mmmm. Again I asked him and his answer was - hahahahaha ask Ashley. Really!!! Of course Ashley wasn't home and I wasn't about to go away without knowing. So I asked if it was the same as saying uh huh without moving your lips. taaa daaa, I got it. So now I've figured it out, but the mom in me couldn't leave it alone - what was the point of mhm - and then not wanting to explain it. If it was not wanting to type too many letters, you would think OK, would have been easier. When I mentioned this theory - all I got was sarcasam......So you want me to type less!!!!! Remember, All I was trying to do was remind him to book his shuttle bus . I should have used my favorite answer finder "Google" because sure enough, thats what shows up. WTH (what the heck) and IGU (I give up)
Well that was last night - and this morning is this morning. And what a good start it was. Bill left around 6:00 am and I turned on the radio and won the wake up call on country 105. Tickets to Jubilations Dinner Theatre and a yearly pass to Heritage Park. All it takes is a LPE (little positive energy)
I think I'll start a dictionary of my own letters.
L (later)
Stacey
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Day 2 of December
Can you say procrastination: I must really be trying to avoid doing my Christmas Cards; why else would I be blogging without Alisa and De bugging me!
For some reason I am not getting into the card mode. I have the list; the letter and even some envelopes ready to go - but to sit down and write out cards is not on the top of my list. So if you people get their cards a little late; well now you know why.
Got home this afternoon from the big Christmas party at the Banff Springs Hotel. The oil industry must be doing well because in addition to Bill's company Christmas party, there were four other oil companies holding their own parties. We even had to wear colored wrist bands to stop people from crashing everyone's parties. That might have to do with the free bar.
The food was spectacular as always; and I thought the band/music was incredible. There was a jazz trio playing up to and including most of the meal. Then after supper was a rock band from Regina. I thought they were really good, but Bill said he wasn't impressed. Although the music was a little loud and made it difficult to talk - hence why people should be dancing and not talking. Despite the wonderful food and atmosphere of the hotel, and the great music, the actual party was ok. I enjoy meeting new people, but sometimes knowing I won't remember them next year, or even if they are going to be with the company next year; makes it hard to want to connect. Even the scotch on the rocks didn't help me. (I was trying everything to get in the spirit) It sure helped my breath better and sleep all night!!!!)
When we got up this morning, Bill headed off to the gym and gave me a 2o minutes warning. So I quickly showered and got ready; then we headed off to the brunch. Most of the people had already left by the time we got there at 11:00. It had snowed over night and the roads were slick. The drive back was slow; 50% caused by the weather and 50% because there were 5 oil company parties leaving at the same time and obviously heading back to Calgary.
Needless to say I had an afternoon nap before unpacking and starting laundry.
Just waiting for Ashley to get home and see how Ms. Maya did over the weekend.
This time next week, Patrick should be home and maybe we'll get the tree up then.
Off to read for awhile - cards will get done tomorrow night.
Stacey
For some reason I am not getting into the card mode. I have the list; the letter and even some envelopes ready to go - but to sit down and write out cards is not on the top of my list. So if you people get their cards a little late; well now you know why.
Got home this afternoon from the big Christmas party at the Banff Springs Hotel. The oil industry must be doing well because in addition to Bill's company Christmas party, there were four other oil companies holding their own parties. We even had to wear colored wrist bands to stop people from crashing everyone's parties. That might have to do with the free bar.
The food was spectacular as always; and I thought the band/music was incredible. There was a jazz trio playing up to and including most of the meal. Then after supper was a rock band from Regina. I thought they were really good, but Bill said he wasn't impressed. Although the music was a little loud and made it difficult to talk - hence why people should be dancing and not talking. Despite the wonderful food and atmosphere of the hotel, and the great music, the actual party was ok. I enjoy meeting new people, but sometimes knowing I won't remember them next year, or even if they are going to be with the company next year; makes it hard to want to connect. Even the scotch on the rocks didn't help me. (I was trying everything to get in the spirit) It sure helped my breath better and sleep all night!!!!)
When we got up this morning, Bill headed off to the gym and gave me a 2o minutes warning. So I quickly showered and got ready; then we headed off to the brunch. Most of the people had already left by the time we got there at 11:00. It had snowed over night and the roads were slick. The drive back was slow; 50% caused by the weather and 50% because there were 5 oil company parties leaving at the same time and obviously heading back to Calgary.
Needless to say I had an afternoon nap before unpacking and starting laundry.
Just waiting for Ashley to get home and see how Ms. Maya did over the weekend.
This time next week, Patrick should be home and maybe we'll get the tree up then.
Off to read for awhile - cards will get done tomorrow night.
Stacey
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Day 1 of December
Memories; So many - it was two years ago on December 3rd that we lost Mom Wee. Knowing she and Dad Wee are together gives me some comfort.
Bill celebrated his 51st birthday on December 1st. Actually the celebration didn't happen until Sunday the 4th. Had dim sum at the house. Way too much food; even Ashley was getting sick of the left overs.
Soccer is winding down for the Christmas break. There will be soccer camps over the holidays - not sure if I'm needed for those.
Ashley is back from her conference in Florida. In addition to all she learned there, her real lesson came when her phone bill arrived last night. Who knew that 1000 texts could add up. $700.00 odd dollars later...... I'm pretty sure this is one lesson she won't ever forget. Both kids are just asking for money for Christmas - Ashley for obvious reasons now; and patrick so he can pay for his trip to Thailand in June. Works for me. I too have a very short list - a turkey baster and a flour sifter - oh wait - I went shopping yesterday and bought them already. Really my list is empty - What do you get someone who has everything she needs !
I'm making an attempt at my Mom's scotch shortbread again this year. This is the third year and maybe the last; depending on how it turns out. The last two years were disasters. I'll keep you posted on the result.
Looks like we'll be spending Christmas at the Samers/Chan/Jesson's this year. There are going to be a lot of people 17ish at last count. We'll probably drop in to Karen and Ben's after dinner for a visit; if they are still hosting the Wee dinner.
tonight is Bill's company Christmas party at the Banff Springs Hotel. Looking forward to it. The food there is always amazing. And because this is the first year at this company party; I don't even need a new outfit. I did get some new shoes and earrings.
Well I better get my act together - Ashley and Maya are going to need some munchies and food for tonight.
later
Luv Me
Bill celebrated his 51st birthday on December 1st. Actually the celebration didn't happen until Sunday the 4th. Had dim sum at the house. Way too much food; even Ashley was getting sick of the left overs.
Soccer is winding down for the Christmas break. There will be soccer camps over the holidays - not sure if I'm needed for those.
Ashley is back from her conference in Florida. In addition to all she learned there, her real lesson came when her phone bill arrived last night. Who knew that 1000 texts could add up. $700.00 odd dollars later...... I'm pretty sure this is one lesson she won't ever forget. Both kids are just asking for money for Christmas - Ashley for obvious reasons now; and patrick so he can pay for his trip to Thailand in June. Works for me. I too have a very short list - a turkey baster and a flour sifter - oh wait - I went shopping yesterday and bought them already. Really my list is empty - What do you get someone who has everything she needs !
I'm making an attempt at my Mom's scotch shortbread again this year. This is the third year and maybe the last; depending on how it turns out. The last two years were disasters. I'll keep you posted on the result.
Looks like we'll be spending Christmas at the Samers/Chan/Jesson's this year. There are going to be a lot of people 17ish at last count. We'll probably drop in to Karen and Ben's after dinner for a visit; if they are still hosting the Wee dinner.
tonight is Bill's company Christmas party at the Banff Springs Hotel. Looking forward to it. The food there is always amazing. And because this is the first year at this company party; I don't even need a new outfit. I did get some new shoes and earrings.
Well I better get my act together - Ashley and Maya are going to need some munchies and food for tonight.
later
Luv Me
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