Sunday, June 5, 2011

Day 3 of June

"Oh what a night......" Those of you old enough will remember that tune. Had a great Saturday and Saturday evening. Janice picked me up around 1:00 pm on Saturday afternoon and we headed back to her place. Spent most of the afternoon picking up a few odds and ends (well technically I surpervised) After a nice dinner at Tudor's in Panarama (TV's in all the booth's) we headed back to Janices and worked in the yard. Janice looked after mowing the lawn, and I discovered my new found love - picking dandelions. Now, before you think I'm going crazy, Janice had one of those fancy, dancy Fiskar pullers. No more bending down for me, - what an invention. Needless to say, Sunday afternoon I drove staight to Canadian Tire and got me one!!!! Back to Saturday. After all our hard work and supervising, the party began. I am proud to say I have removed another item from my 50 list (I think). I did my first shot of Tequila - you know the tequila, salt and lemon(lime) But according to Bill, we did it wrong, so I'm not sure if this disqualifies my attempt and I'll have to retry... Let me think of that one, because after three of the shots last night, I'm not sure I'm in a hurry to try it again. The evening was filled with lots of munchies; lots of alcohol; lots of socializing; lots of flames in the fire; (a burned bridal veil) and lots of loud music. Apparently the music was too loud, because the police showed up with a complaint of loud music and screaming. Not sure if they were at the correct party, because really, a bunch of over 40 women, with the odd few husbands thrown in, wasn't what I would call rowdy. But I will admit the music was a tad too loud for midnight. By the time everyone left, Janice and I were ready to crash on the couch's. We woke up around 7:00 am - that was unplanned; and while Janice and and showered, I had a quick nap. When I woke up, she was smelling less like camp fire smoke, and more that Tim Hortons. I guess I napped longer than I planned.
Our timing was great, because around 10:00 am some people came to pick up the couch's to take away.
What a wonderful evening - and great memories. Hopefully we won't see any pictures on Facebook. Off for another well earned nap - outside!
Later
Stacey

Friday, June 3, 2011

Day 2 of June

Good night to do a little reflection!!!
It has been a very busy week. Patrick's grad was the biggest highlight. I must be wearing rose colored glasses, because I thought the grad ceremony and the reception were well organized, and everyone looked amazing; I heard many opposite comments. Then Thursday night, the senior boys soccer team won their quarter final game. This was a big game for them. Their opponents were a strong, tough team - rumor has it that most of the players on that team play for elite club teams. Well the Bulldogs pulled off a 2 -0 win. Sending lots of positive energy for their semi-final game. These boys can do it.
I worked at the preschool Thursday and Friday this week in stead of my usual Tuesday and Thursday. There is one little girl that has been in the class since September. She was very shy; non verbal and hard to make a connection with. Well I think she is over most of those descriptions. Today, she kept trying to put paint on everyone - including me. Now at first glance, one might think she was being naughty - but I believe not only has she come out of her shell; she is talking to me all the time - Mrs. Wee look at this; Mrs. Wee I have a surprise; I think she is trying to make friends with some of the kids, and her lack of socializing skills are making it hard for her. I guess I need to figure out another way for her to do this. The kids are not appreciating paint all over their clothes!!!!!
Looking forward to a wonderful weekend with Janice. It's a girls sleepover at the old house. Sort of camping, but inside with all the amenities.

Night
Stacey

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

1st Day of June

I almost typed the 5th day of May, and then I realized - ohoh June is here. It is going to be one busy month. But lets cover the last couple of days.
So Tuesday was graduation day for Patrick. And what a day it was. It started with the ceremony at the University. Let me back up a little, it actually started at home when the son brought out the bag with all his new clothes - tags and all. When I suggested he might want to iron them first, he wasn't keen - saying nobody would see them under his gown!!!! (sometimes he is like his Dad) So then we headed to the ceremony. Approximately 680 students to walk across the stage. I was very impressed how fast it went. Of course it went alphabettically - and if we remember the alphabet, W, is fairly close to the end. (could have been worse, he could have been a Z, - oh wait that was me!) But like I said, it went pretty fast. So after some pictures, the ceremony, some socializing, Patrick and I headed home (Bill left before us). Had a little break in the afternoon, and then it was off to the reception at the Telus convention center. Ashley was meeting us there because she was coming directly from work. We picked up the girlfriend, and fought our way through rush hour traffic downtown. We thought we were late, but there was a reason they put 5:30 as the starting date (they mush have known everyone would be late) There were 8 people at our table - our family, the girlfriend; Patrick's friend and his parents. Good thing we put Bill next to Matt's Dad. They talked the entire evening.
And when they weren't talking, Bill was on his phone to work, and Ashley was on her phone working on a project. Father and Daughter bonding - not!
The dinner was wonderful; the service was amazing (especially considering the number of people there). The M.C. was doing his best - I will give him credit for his confidence. But the best part of the evening for me was reconnecting with friends - parents of kids I haven't seen in ages. It sure put the evening into perspective.
So now dinner is over; Bill and the daughter head home (they have jobs in the morning) and I stick around for my first driving tour. The kids head off to the after-grad. I drop them off; head home with my cell phone close at hand. About 2:30 am I get a text the the group is at a friend's place in Edgemont, but they are wanting to head over to Colin's in the Hamptons. A litle bit of irony here. I get the name and address of the friend in Edgemont. The last name is not a common name; so I inquire about the Dad. Is his first name Roy; is he a fireman; Yes to both questions. Turns out this Dad, Roy went to high school with Bill and I. Plus Bill worked with him at the curling rink for awhile. Small world. Anyway I pick up the first group of boys; drop them off at Colin's and head back for the second set of boys. Both times I mention to the boys the rule in my car "If you throw up in my car, not only do you have to clean it up, but you also have to buy me something nice." I didn't come home with any gifts.
The plan is they are all going to stay overnight at Colin's place (with Colin's parents blessing) My mind is at ease; I can now close my eyes without that ear listening to my cell phone. Another grad over and done - .......... Congratulations son!

Stacey

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

4th Day of May

I thought I better get another blog written before I start getting reminders from De and Alisa.

First I have to talk about a dodododod moment. Last night I told the son he could take my car to school today. This morning when he comes up for breakfast, he tells me about a dream he had. In the dream, he said he was so mad at me because he was getting ready for school and he had 15 minutes before school started; then I told him he couldn't take my car. Apparently I decided to go into work after all and to top it off, I wouldn't give him a ride to school. Not a horrible dream, but disturbing enough that he would remember. Fast forward 45 minutes. I'm downstairs working on the computer and the phone rings. It's a ed. assistant I know and she asks me if I can work for her today at a school (opposite to where the son needs to go) I decline because I know i won't have a car. The son is standing right beside me as I take the call. We both look at each other - hmmmm. Could have been his dream happening in real life!!!!

K, on to more important stuff. I have three items to cross off my 50 list. Item number one...... I got a tatoo on the weekend. Yes De, a real one! Before my wonderful mother-in-law passed away, I asked her to write out Ashley and Patrick's Chinese names. I've kept that paper, with the intention of putting them in a tatoo. Well the opportunity presented itself on Monday. Actually the inspiration came Sunday night. I was watching the news, and there was a story about these tatoo artists raising money for cancer. The story contained the words - bucket list, in memory of a loved one who died of cancer. I figured this was my sign, so I headed out Monday morning to get my tatoo. For the record, Ashley lied - it does hurt!!!!!

The second item to cross off, hasn't happened yet, but the trip is booked. I have always wanted to visit the East Coast of Canada. I haven't been farther east than Montreal. So I have booked a train ride to Halifax - all by myself. Bill is going to meet me in Halifax and we'll do some touring and fly home together.

The third item; I've always wanted to see Garth Brooks in concert. The last time he was in Calgary (when the kids were young I think) we were heading to BC for a holiday and I couldn't go. Well Garth plays the odd dates in Vegas - and I have booked two tickets for his show in September. Technically it's my 50th birthday present from Bill. I haven't booked the actual trip yet, but the concert tickets are mine!!!!!

It's true what they say; if you actually write down your goals, they are much easier to attain (and remember what they were)

Well I gave the car to the son today, so I could stay home and get something accomplished. Now would be a good time to start that.

Have a wonderfuly Wednesday.
Stacey

Saturday, May 14, 2011

3rd Day of May

Well it feels good to report that our spring/summer weather has finally arrived. And with the lovely weather, comes golf season. yeahhhhhhhh. Bill is back to his old self (not older, just old) He just needed his friend golf to make him feel somewhat normal again. And with golf season comes not having to cook big supper meals because the club house has a much better selection than home. So everyone is happy.

It's been 23 days since Ashley has been home - and I am amazed as how mature she has become. My only complaint (and really on a life changing issue it's nothing) is having to share the toaster. She likes her toast white (what's the point) and I like my pre-burnt. I'm going to have to get used to looking at the setting before I pop my toast in; pushing the button down twice does make the toast come out black.

It's Saturday and Ashley and I are off to update her banking and hand over her financial records to herself. Afterwards, I'm off to pick up Patrick from writing an exam and take in one of his soccer games. I can't wait to sit on the grass and take off my shoes and relax.

Crossed off another item off my 50 list. I tried a banana with peanut butter last night. It was good, but not sure if I would feel the need to do it again.

Also developed a quick sore throat last night. I googled to find a natural remedy. I combined a couple of things - used the nettie pot; gargled with salt water and chewed on some garlic. During the night it felt horrible, but by morning I can barely feel any soreness. (could use some spaghetti to go with the garlic.)

Anyway I'm off to run those errands.

Have a great saturday - we all deserve it!

Stacey

Monday, May 9, 2011

Day 2 of May

So much to say, so little typing space!!!!!

I was going to talk about our Cinco de mayo party on Friday night; the after math on Saturday, and mother's day on Sunday. But today's happenings, as little as they are, have my mind almost convinced that "men-boys" think so, so, so different - did I say so different.
Let me set the scene; Ashley had the day off today (she doesn't always know too far ahead what days she'll have off) So we had hoped to meet with the Bank fellow this afternoon, and were just waiting to hear from him. Patrick had a school soccer game and needed to be picked up from school to get the game. We made arrangements this morning, that he would get a ride with a friend, and I would meet him at the game. (way, way in the South)
So, by 2:00 I hadn't heard from the bank people so I text Patrick (he's in school so can't phone) and tell him I can pick him up at 3:10.
Here is the remaining texts between Patrick and myself.
PATRICK to MOM: Colin can drive me
MOM to PATRICK: There and back or do you want me to come watch?
PATRICK to MOM: I was thinking of going to Matts later for math.
MOM to PATRICK: What does that mean for me. Explain what you need from me.
PATRICK to MOM: If you want to come watch then I'll come home with you. If not then I'll catch a ride with colin.
MOM TO PATRICK: Maybe catch a ride with coling then; I'll try to get work done so you can have the car to go to matts.
PATRICK to MOM: OK

So the phone rings around 5:45ish and it is my loving son. And his question to me is "Where are you?"
I explained at home, because I thought that was the "deal"! He said he would get a ride with Colin; have Colin drop him off at Matts; and Matt would give him a ride home after studying for math.

Makes sense to me, but I sent him another text and asked him to review our other texts and let me know what I missed.

Here was his reply:

PATRICK to MOM: So I thought you meant catch a ride with colin there and then you'd give me the car after the game and have Dad or Ashley pick you up somewhere.

Hmmm. I didn't realize I had type all that between the lines!!!!!

I am laughing now, but seriously this goes on all the time - especially in our verbal conversations. I was actually going to get checked out for Dementia - thinking I was forgetting what we discussed. I guess I have to get everything in writing just to keep my sanity!!!!

By the way, Friday night's Cinco de mayo party was so much fun. This is our 6th annual and this was the most fun I had. Of course this is the first one where we all danced and sang - well, Sandra and I did most of the singing and dancing. If I could dance like that every night, I'd drop 100 pounds in a heart beat.

Off to pay some bills - and find my memory!!!!
Stacey

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Day 1 of May

Yes we are into May, May 4th to be exact and there is still some snow on our front lawn.
Not a lot of "happenings" to report. Believe it or not, Sunday night everyone was home, so I asked (forced) everyone to play a family game. We played Crokinal(sp). It was girls agains the guys. Although Ashley and I took the first game in a best out of the three. The guys came back and won the last two in a row. Seems Ashley was hitting the "pieces" just a little too hard and had an injured finger. During the last game there were a few distractions. The first one made Patrick jump right out of his chair. Just as a shot was being made, there was a loud bang on the kitchen window. Normally this time of year, we would have thought some golfer might have sliced his shot. But seeing how the golf course isn't open yet (much to Bill's disbelief), and the window was covering in feathers, it appeared the windex commercial had come to life. A bird had flew into the window. Now this south window is not the window that usually interrupts any birds flight. The kitchen west window has been know to fool a sparrow or two. To solve the problem, I placed a sun catcher in that window. As for this newest accident, Ashley raced out to the deck to discover a beautiful (my words, not hers) bird (as opposed to those damn magpies) had crashed into the window. Dr. Ashley grabbed one of my fine dish towels and went to rescue the injured bird. Unfortunately, it was discovered that he was already dead - a broken neck perhaps (which would explain why his tongue was hanging out of his mouth). After consulting a bird expert (Google - my expert) it would appear the bird was a Northern Flicker (a type of woodpecker) Here is my theory what happened:
The Northern Flicker was returning to his home in Northeran Alberta (say Red Deer) and decided to take a short cut through Calgary, as he was told there was still snow, but wanted to see for himself. His GPS system was shorting out and instead of following Deerfoot trail he wandered towards Stoney Trail. To avoid the flock of seagulls over the dump, the Flicker cut through the Hamptons and that's when the Magpie spotted him and that chase began. Although a faster flyer, the Flicker was not familiar with the area and it's window traps. While taking a steep dive, well, .... that's when we heard the loud thump. And that bold Magpie sat on the deck railing, observing the Flicker before Ashley came to it's rescue. Now if I had to rewrite the story, it would have been the Magpie that crashed into the window.
That was our Sunday.

Tuesday night was a little more entertaining. Shaunan and I went to see John Edwards. Not the politician, but the psychic, lecturer. What an amazing show. Although we didn't ask any questions; nor did we get a reading; three ladies next to us were surprised with a reading. They were three sisters; two were believers and one was a skeptic (when she walked into the room) Thank goodness Shaunan had kleenex because the skeptic was in tears (hopefully of joy) as she was being connected to loved ones passed. It was amazing to listen to some of these stories. I felt very fortunate by the time I left that evening. Here I was wanting to go and hopefully connect with my Dad or Mother-in-law or Aunts or Uncles. I miss them, and they are/were very important people in my life. But some of the people in the audience - they lost loved ones due to accidents; lost children; two children; their personal stories made me glad they were able to connect. I came away feeling lucky to have witnessed their connections and not at all disappointed for not getting my own connections. If you ever get a chance to see this man, he is not only an amazing psychic, but a wonderful speaker and motivator for making you appreciate what and who you have on "this side."
So between the Northern Flicker and John Edwards, it has been a very thought provoking week so far for me. I can't wait to see what the rest of the week brings (did I mention Thursday is Cinco de Mayo - stay tuned)
Stacey