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

Saturday, April 30, 2011

Day 4 of April

Well I am one day late, but i finally got a chance to watch the "Royal Wedding." I'm not sure there is just one word on how to describe the event. Even if you are not a fan of the Royals, one must admit it is like a fairy tale! A few of the moments that stand out.... (in no paticular order)
1) Disney is not the only ones who can pull off a fairy tale - but true to Disney style, again the "mother" is not in the picture.
2) The Queen is holding her own - for someone her age, she stood a long time.
3) I sure wouldn't want to be in charge of dusting the Abbey!
4) Prince Phillip is looking a little older than his age!
5) I thought the best part of ceremony speech's (sermons) was the the priest that spoke before William and Kate went back to sign their papers. He looked like Orson Wells, and gave a very moving and personal address.
6) I got one of my questions answered "Does the queen sing "God save the Queen"? No she doesn't.
7) Camilla didn't seem very happy until after the ceremony. In fact, not a lot of people smiled until it was over. Is that a British thing? I wonder what thoughts were running through her head as some of the service was being read!!!!!
8) Actually I take that back, Elton John was smiling a lot.
9) I was impressed on how well behaved the young bridesmaids were. During the ceremony they sat quietly. I was thinking how many skittles did it take to keep them focused. But then as the wedding party was leaving the church, I realized the two tiniest girls were not there. Obviously they got to skip the long service. They did appear again in the carriages. And who was looking after them then - Uncle Harry of course.
10) Harry and William are so different - but in good ways. I loved how Harry kept things light - he is quite the "Chatty Cathy".
11) I noticed Andrew and his two daughters amongst the guests. There was a time when he seemed to be the "wild" brother, but he appeared very regal, and somewhat mature today. Must be from being the Dad of two daughters!
12) When the congregation was singing, there was a gentleman outside following the words on his ipad type book. Only in this day and age!
13) In the carriage ride from the church to the "castle" is when William appeared most in his element. So at ease - and the looks that he and Katherine shared were heartfelt!
14) Regarding the young boys in the choir - who decides who gets to wear white and who gets to wear red. Can you imagine how exciting this day must have been for them.
15) In the church, the cameras kept scoping out a gentleman in dark rimmed glasses. I was trying to figure out is importance, and then I realized they were trying to get a close up of David and Victoria Beckham (again another lady who was not wearing her smile today)
16) There was one nose picker in the church and one "food" eater as well.
17) I would find it uncomfortable to be sitting in the seats where you were facing across the aisle at the other people facing you. Sort of the same uncomfortable feeling of when you are in an elevator.

Diana would be so proud of her son(s) today. I think she is the reason I wanted to take a peek at this wedding. No doubt William was thinking of her throughout the day.

Well that's my take on the "wedding". What a way to end April. No doubt my next blog will be in and around Cino de Mayo.

Stacey

Monday, April 25, 2011

Day 3 of April

Seeing how Patrick turned 18 for a very long time, I thought I better write in the blog so Caylee wasn't turning 2 forever!!!
Had a lovely birthday party for Miss Caylee. She is such a cutie. And considering the number of people there, she did so well. It was a nice way to spend Caylee's birthday - lots of great food; and great company. Well done Robin and Alisa!!!!
Was pretty tired when I got home Sunday night, so went to bed early. Monday morning came too fast. But it is the day after Easter and all the Easter "decor" needs to be taken down at the stores. I worked all three stores during the day so Patrick could have my car in the evening. Don't think I'll be trying that again soon......Long day and very, very tired. It's only 8:15 pm, but I'm ready for bed.
I mentioned I was planning a rail trip for my birthday. Well there is a slight adjustment to that thought. The rail trip is now not for my birthday. I seemed to have forgotten that May 5th is fast approaching and I have been informed there will be another tequila tasting going down. So the rail trip will be my Cinco De Mayo present. So for my birthday, I have asked Bill to take me to Vegas to see " Garth Brooks." and yes, that is also on my "50" list. Keep your fingers crossed - that we can get tickets - De, will you be making this trip too..!!!!!
Off to get the pj's on.
Stacey

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Day 2 of April

I apologize for the slack off this month(D)!!!
Day 2 of the April Blog and April is almost over. Where did the time go? A lot has happened.

The daughter is home!!!!. Bill flew to Toronto on the 15th of April. Ashley picked him up at the airport and they went on a visiting spree. Bill has a school buddy in Toronto - so they stopped there for supper. Then they headed back to Montreal - more visiting with relatives and school buddies. Then it was back to Peterborough to load up Ashley's car with her stuff - considering she sold the big stuff, the car was pretty full. It was good to know she could carry 7 kegs in there when she had to.
They left Peterborough on Tuesday morning (April 19) I don't have all the details yet nor have I seen the photos. But they arrived home Thursday evening, the 21st; tired but glad to be home - and yes Patrick and I were glad to have them home (even if it was a day earlier than planned)
So the details of the trip and future plans will have to be saved for another blog, because I don't know them yet!!!
I have been doing some accupuncture and chinese herbs. I have been for 5 treatments, and I am feeling amazing - i have so much energy. I am trying to get my chi balanced and it seems to be working. I think I will be giving up my Mona Vie juice and continuing with this tradtional treatment. Go with something that works and you believe!!!!!
Saturday we had dinner at Anne and Brian's with the family. Except for Maya running in the mud (she was trying to avoid the snow), the evening was relaxing.
Today we are off to Robin's to help celebrate Caylee's 2nd birthday. Bill and I will be met there by Ashley (who is skiing for the day) and Patrick (who is working during the day) I think this is the preview for the rest of our lives.
Oh wait, there is more big news !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wait for it
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

K, I had originally wanted a big party for my birthday this year............ but knowing how much Bill enjoys planning that stuff, I decided to take another route. I'm going to take a train to Halifax during the summer. Visiting the East Coast is on my list of things to do before I turn 50. And I love trains. I was going to go by myself, but Anne is now interested in going too. so if we can agree on a time - that is the plan for July sometime. I'll keep you posted on the details.

K, that's it for today. I really have a lot to get done. Plus I am still waiting to finish my scrabble game with a very good friend of mine. I though she was busy too, but she has time to hassle me about my blog, so I know she has time to play (I think she's worried I might be winning this time.)
Till later
Stacey