Thursday night was busy, and exciting and a little stressful. It was the night before our big walk. We had our Day 0 Safety meeting. Time to finalize the details, tally up the donations, assign tents, confirm tent partners, etc.
Well I came away from the meeting feeling less busy, more excited and less stressful. The organizers couldn't express enough how great this weekend was going to be (despite the weekend weather forecast) And they were right. If we know the rain is coming.......plan for the best, prepare for the worst.
Jean and I arrived home around 8:30 pm last night and I repacked my stuff (added in the umbrella), doubled checked my list, slipped in a few not list items (gum, munchies, music).
I was in bed and ready to go to sleep by 10:00 pm. Unfortunately Maya and Bill weren't very co-operative. That stressed me out a little. I tossed and turned and finally after trying all my "fall asleep" tricks, popped my ativan and before I knew it 4:30 a.m. was here.
I'm showered, packed, and ready to go.
There will be more blogs to follow, but they may have to wait until Monday because I'm not taking any electronic tablets (too much stuff already)
Sending love and positive energy to all and thanks for everyone's support.
Failure is not an option.!!!!!
(now where did I put those damn rubber boots)
Stacey
Friday, September 6, 2013
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Blog 1 of September
Yes, September 1st. Wow, where did our summer go? What I mean to say, is "where did the time go?" Maybe a short picture synopses will refresh my memory!!!
Even though it was still June, the summer got started with the trip Patrick and I took to Winnipeg to see Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran. What great memories for me, and hopefully Patrick. Who knows how many more times we'll want to see the same artists.
There were BBQ's; ours and Patricks. Our big BBQ of the summer was when the Flott family came for a long overdue visit. We couldn't have asked for more beautiful weather.
There was the Flood of 2013: We were very lucky that our home was not affected. But I think it would be fair to say that most people in Calgary and surrounding areas were affected in some way. It was something I have not seen in my 52 years living in and around Calgary.
There was the Stampede. Patrick's friend Elliot came to visit from B.C. What better way to introduce him to the Calgary Stampede than with a lot of rain and lots of mud.
There was Reggaefest: Met some amazing artists, volunteers and reconnected with old friends. This was my 5th year volunteering and I'm already looking forward to next August.
There was Banff. Bill and I got a chance to get away for a day or two. Hiked a beautiful mountain and afterwards enjoyed a meal on the outdoor balcony at the Banff Springs Hotel. This is the mushroom burger that Bill ordered. Little did he know it actually only came with two large portabella mushrooms.
There was training: The decision to walk in the Kidney March was one of the best things I have done for myself in a long time. And the added bonus of how it helps others, is like icing on the cake. Only 5 days until I actually partake in the actually race!!!!
Reunion lunches: Loved, loved seeing the ladies from "Colonel Sanders Group" 10 years might have passed, but the friendships are ageless (as are the ladies) Also got together with the PREP ladies for morning walks and the odd lunch and dinner.
Spartan Races: I didn't partake in any of these races, but I was lucky enough to let the end results bathe in my washing machine. Patrick did two of the Spartan races; one in Edmonton with his cousin Susan, and the second one in Calgary, with his "lake swimming" buddies.
And reliving old memories. I love going through old photographs, so when I came across this one, I had to keep a copy. This would be some where in the late 1950's in Midnapore. That is my Mom, and my two sisters, Sharry and Robin. I don't think I was even a twinkle in my parents eye yet!!!!
Even though it was still June, the summer got started with the trip Patrick and I took to Winnipeg to see Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran. What great memories for me, and hopefully Patrick. Who knows how many more times we'll want to see the same artists.
There were BBQ's; ours and Patricks. Our big BBQ of the summer was when the Flott family came for a long overdue visit. We couldn't have asked for more beautiful weather.
The son seemed to have a busier social calendar than ours. It was heartwarming to watch him stay connected with friends from his school years. I think he had three BBQ's in total at our place.
There was the Flood of 2013: We were very lucky that our home was not affected. But I think it would be fair to say that most people in Calgary and surrounding areas were affected in some way. It was something I have not seen in my 52 years living in and around Calgary.
Volunteering at Spruce Meadows. This was a new experience for me this year. I am grateful to Ashley for giving me the idea and letting me hang out with her at her job. I learned more about show jumping as a volunteer than I did as a horse mom for all those years.
There was the Stampede. Patrick's friend Elliot came to visit from B.C. What better way to introduce him to the Calgary Stampede than with a lot of rain and lots of mud.
There was Reggaefest: Met some amazing artists, volunteers and reconnected with old friends. This was my 5th year volunteering and I'm already looking forward to next August.
There was Banff. Bill and I got a chance to get away for a day or two. Hiked a beautiful mountain and afterwards enjoyed a meal on the outdoor balcony at the Banff Springs Hotel. This is the mushroom burger that Bill ordered. Little did he know it actually only came with two large portabella mushrooms.
There was training: The decision to walk in the Kidney March was one of the best things I have done for myself in a long time. And the added bonus of how it helps others, is like icing on the cake. Only 5 days until I actually partake in the actually race!!!!
Reunion lunches: Loved, loved seeing the ladies from "Colonel Sanders Group" 10 years might have passed, but the friendships are ageless (as are the ladies) Also got together with the PREP ladies for morning walks and the odd lunch and dinner.
Kid's Cancer Camp at Camp Kindle - Watervalley: Another highlight was being able to go out on Fridays and spend time with a great group of volunteers and interact with some great and courageous kids. We did not have one Friday of rain for the entire Friday summer camps.
Spartan Races: I didn't partake in any of these races, but I was lucky enough to let the end results bathe in my washing machine. Patrick did two of the Spartan races; one in Edmonton with his cousin Susan, and the second one in Calgary, with his "lake swimming" buddies.
Ashley, Ethan and Bill participated in the Calgary spartan race, along with Ashley's fellow co workers from Spruce Meadows. I'm pretty sure this was a before shot.
And reliving old memories. I love going through old photographs, so when I came across this one, I had to keep a copy. This would be some where in the late 1950's in Midnapore. That is my Mom, and my two sisters, Sharry and Robin. I don't think I was even a twinkle in my parents eye yet!!!!
And now the son has returned to school, his home away from home. Bill took him to the airport this morning. I've heard from him, he's made it. Got some groceries and I think he's having some beers with friends. I'm pretty sure he won't be lonely!
Ashley is home tonight, but there is a horse show starting up tomorrow, so I'm guessing she is going to be absent for a few days. I see big changes for her in the fall. But we'll save that for another blog. Good bye summer. Hello wonderful Autumn!
Stacey
Friday, August 30, 2013
Blog 14 of August
This is the last Friday of August 2013.
Had a wonderful start to the day. Rose and I visited the Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park this morning with our bikes. What a workout. I found it much more difficult than walking the route. We did pretty good on the hills, but that will be my goal, to make it up the steep hills without walking up the bike. To be sure though, walking up those hills pushing a big ole' mountain bike was also good exercise.
The view from this park is just spectacular.
This is the start of our trail ride. Thank goodness Rose knows how to take the selfie shots. There was nobody else on the trails when we started.
The clouds painted an awesome, yet auspicious picture in the sky. It's almost like a Chinook arch mixed with a array of storm clouds coming in. Somewhere in the picture is the train going through as well.
Rose saw a deer, and otherwise it was just cows and horses that were keeping us company.
So 10 km later, we were still smiling, but the jackets had come off and our cheeks were a little "rosier".
I can't wait to do this park again, either walking or riding.
The rest of the day was pretty quiet and calm in comparison. I made a quick trip to Canadian Tire for a sleeping mat to put under my sleeping bag. The Kidney March is exactly one week from today. I'm very excited. I will start doing the sun dance and hopefully keep rain and or snow away.....
I also stopped in at Future Shop. I am looking for an IPad cover. I have a vision of what I want, but haven't been able to locate the exact "case" I want. Future Shop didn't have what I was looking for, so I guess the search is still on going.
Bill and I spent the afternoon putting the new cover and lid lifter on the hot tub. The tub is up and running and if the wind calms down, I think I just might be heading out there tonight, under the stars with a nice glass of wine (or water).
Happy Friday.
Stacey
Had a wonderful start to the day. Rose and I visited the Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park this morning with our bikes. What a workout. I found it much more difficult than walking the route. We did pretty good on the hills, but that will be my goal, to make it up the steep hills without walking up the bike. To be sure though, walking up those hills pushing a big ole' mountain bike was also good exercise.
The view from this park is just spectacular.
This is the start of our trail ride. Thank goodness Rose knows how to take the selfie shots. There was nobody else on the trails when we started.
The clouds painted an awesome, yet auspicious picture in the sky. It's almost like a Chinook arch mixed with a array of storm clouds coming in. Somewhere in the picture is the train going through as well.
Rose saw a deer, and otherwise it was just cows and horses that were keeping us company.
So 10 km later, we were still smiling, but the jackets had come off and our cheeks were a little "rosier".
I can't wait to do this park again, either walking or riding.
The rest of the day was pretty quiet and calm in comparison. I made a quick trip to Canadian Tire for a sleeping mat to put under my sleeping bag. The Kidney March is exactly one week from today. I'm very excited. I will start doing the sun dance and hopefully keep rain and or snow away.....
I also stopped in at Future Shop. I am looking for an IPad cover. I have a vision of what I want, but haven't been able to locate the exact "case" I want. Future Shop didn't have what I was looking for, so I guess the search is still on going.
Bill and I spent the afternoon putting the new cover and lid lifter on the hot tub. The tub is up and running and if the wind calms down, I think I just might be heading out there tonight, under the stars with a nice glass of wine (or water).
Happy Friday.
Stacey
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Blog 13 of August
Happy Hump Day - Yes it's Wednesday and it is almost the end of August.
Here are some sure tale signs that summer is coming to an end. Or as I like to call it: "The Top Ten Signs" you can tell summer is coming to an end.
1) I seen 8 Canada Geese flying south yesterday, and they weren't very organized - I guess the leader hadn't quite been selected yet.
2) Patrick and his friends are packing and heading out to their respective school and or jobs.
3) The firewood under the deck needs replenishing.
4) Spruce Meadows Masters is just days away.
5) Mom has decided it would be a good time to look for white sandals, because they should be on sale.
6) Rose and I can't start our morning walks at 6:00 a.m. because it is way to dark out to be walking in the ravine!
7) The backyard is starting to fill up with leaves from the golf course trees
8) Driving with the roof down in the bullet, first thing in the morning, can get a little chilly.
9) I seen a rabbit, with a very white tale......
10) I have time to call the radio stations again.... and win!!!!!
I really did see the Geese flying yesterday, and I swear they were heading for Chinook.
Patrick has the suitcase out and adding things as they become clean. He leaves Sunday morning.
Ashley is back to working weekends for the next little while. The Spruce Meadows Masters is the last major outdoor horse show in Calgary.
It's Wednesday, and Mom really wants to go shoe shopping - for white sandals. I tried to warn her that it might be next to impossible to find, but we'll try.
And our walk got cancelled this morning, so I was cleaning the kitchen when I heard a contest on the radio. I'm off to see War Horses at the Jubilee Auditorium , brought in by Broadway Across Canada.
I better get the rest of this day rolling.
Stacey
Here are some sure tale signs that summer is coming to an end. Or as I like to call it: "The Top Ten Signs" you can tell summer is coming to an end.
1) I seen 8 Canada Geese flying south yesterday, and they weren't very organized - I guess the leader hadn't quite been selected yet.
2) Patrick and his friends are packing and heading out to their respective school and or jobs.
3) The firewood under the deck needs replenishing.
4) Spruce Meadows Masters is just days away.
5) Mom has decided it would be a good time to look for white sandals, because they should be on sale.
6) Rose and I can't start our morning walks at 6:00 a.m. because it is way to dark out to be walking in the ravine!
7) The backyard is starting to fill up with leaves from the golf course trees
8) Driving with the roof down in the bullet, first thing in the morning, can get a little chilly.
9) I seen a rabbit, with a very white tale......
10) I have time to call the radio stations again.... and win!!!!!
I really did see the Geese flying yesterday, and I swear they were heading for Chinook.
Patrick has the suitcase out and adding things as they become clean. He leaves Sunday morning.
Ashley is back to working weekends for the next little while. The Spruce Meadows Masters is the last major outdoor horse show in Calgary.
It's Wednesday, and Mom really wants to go shoe shopping - for white sandals. I tried to warn her that it might be next to impossible to find, but we'll try.
And our walk got cancelled this morning, so I was cleaning the kitchen when I heard a contest on the radio. I'm off to see War Horses at the Jubilee Auditorium , brought in by Broadway Across Canada.
I better get the rest of this day rolling.
Stacey
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Blog 12 of August
What a roller-coaster weekend! I can only describe the past weekend as being filled with so much, in such a short time frame.
Friday night was the "Good-bye BBQ" for Patrick and his friends. Without going into too much detail, (to protect the guilty), the evening ended with some very wet, some very loud, and a few boxer clad boys. But I am proud to say despite the shenanigans, these are still a great group of young men (who I hope have learned some "take away lessons").
Saturday was busy for everyone. Ashley, Bill and Ethan participated in the Spartan Race being run in town. Patrick went along as the official team photographer.
This was the team. My understanding is that Bill left the team in the dust and had to rely on the help of strangers for some of the more strenuous events.
This was after the mud part of the race.
In fact, all the performers were so nice, as they are every year. That was Saturday night. So at the end of the evening, I hopped the C-Train and headed home. Sunday was going to be another busy day. It was Patrick's day to run the Spartan Race (he had done the same race up in Edmonton back in June.) But now Bill and I headed to Banff. We made plans to hike up Tunnel mountain and then a nice relaxing evening at the Banff Springs Hotel.
This was the view from the summit of Tunnel Mountain. That is the Banff Springs Golf Course in the back ground. The entire hike took 2 1/2 hours (we were with a tour group, so we had a couple of breaks for talks) Then we headed to the hotel. Our room wasn't quite ready, so we headed to the lounge for a drink and a bite to eat.
Funny story. As we were checking out the menu, I decided on a chicken burger and Bill decided on the mushroom burger. I jokingly suggested he check to see if there was actual meat on the burger. He didn't and there wasn't. The burger contained to very large Portabella mushrooms.
Friday night was the "Good-bye BBQ" for Patrick and his friends. Without going into too much detail, (to protect the guilty), the evening ended with some very wet, some very loud, and a few boxer clad boys. But I am proud to say despite the shenanigans, these are still a great group of young men (who I hope have learned some "take away lessons").
Saturday was busy for everyone. Ashley, Bill and Ethan participated in the Spartan Race being run in town. Patrick went along as the official team photographer.
This was the team. My understanding is that Bill left the team in the dust and had to rely on the help of strangers for some of the more strenuous events.
This was after the mud part of the race.
So while Bill and the kids were attending the race, I was off to my event. The 10th Anniversary of Reggaefest. Once again I was working in the "Green Room" - VIP section, where the performers hang out and eat and drink. My original shift was from 2:00 until 6:30, but Jolene had some no shows for the evening shift so I stayed and helped out. I ended up working straight through til 11:30, but it was so worth it. During the afternoon, the star, and main event attraction, Mr. Ky-mani Marley dropped by to eat, drink and whatever else one partakes in during Reggaefest!!!! What a kind soul this man has, and so personal.
In fact, all the performers were so nice, as they are every year. That was Saturday night. So at the end of the evening, I hopped the C-Train and headed home. Sunday was going to be another busy day. It was Patrick's day to run the Spartan Race (he had done the same race up in Edmonton back in June.) But now Bill and I headed to Banff. We made plans to hike up Tunnel mountain and then a nice relaxing evening at the Banff Springs Hotel.
This was the view from the summit of Tunnel Mountain. That is the Banff Springs Golf Course in the back ground. The entire hike took 2 1/2 hours (we were with a tour group, so we had a couple of breaks for talks) Then we headed to the hotel. Our room wasn't quite ready, so we headed to the lounge for a drink and a bite to eat.
Funny story. As we were checking out the menu, I decided on a chicken burger and Bill decided on the mushroom burger. I jokingly suggested he check to see if there was actual meat on the burger. He didn't and there wasn't. The burger contained to very large Portabella mushrooms.
The weather for the entire weekend was beautiful. Hopefully it will last for the rest of the summer.
It's now Tuesday evening and I think I am finally starting to feel almost normal. Note to self: (or the morale of the story) Don't try and cram so many activities into one weekend - I'm not getting any younger and sleep is my best friend.
The rest of the week seems like a piece of cake in comparison to the weekend, but it is still a busy one.
Later
Stacey
Friday, August 16, 2013
Blog 11 of August
Came across another cute saying I seen on one of the radio stations pages.
Thank you for informing me you have a stick figure family of 5. your mini-van had me under the impression you were wild and single; ----------I'm sorry, but that's just too funny.
Thursday started with a great walk with the "walker/PREP ladies. Gina took us to this great place called Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park. We ended up walking around 9.5 km. The view was amazing. I had never heard of this park before. At one point we came across this stone fireplace that was barricaded off. It was from the original homestead. Thanks for a great work out ladies.
At 4:30, I met Ashley and we had a mani-pedi. I wanted my nails done for Reggaefest and Ashley has a wedding next week in Ontario. I go to New Wave Nails and they do a great job.
This is a result of Denise's free hand-i-work. Her husband works there sometimes and he gives the best foot massage.
Friday was another beautiful day; weather has been co-operating. Rose got home from Hawaii so I got my other walking partner back. 21 Days to the Kidney March.
Patrick is in the throngs of his final "hurrah" friends party. Great group of people, but boy can they be loud. They've moved out to the fire pit so the house is a little quieter. I'll be hitting the hay soon - Its Reggaefest tomorrow. Man
Stacey
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Blog 10 of August
Finally, Mother Nature is giving us our summer weather. Never too late.
Wednesday today, and tried to squeeze a whole lot of stuff into this midweek day.
Took Mom grocery shopping this morning. She told me she had eaten breakfast before we left, but she sure was picking up a lot of munchie food. After I got Mom's groceries put away, headed home with my own groceries. Both Bill and Patrick arrived home shortly after me. (nothing like missing the chance to bring in the groceries from the car.) Patrick quickly ate his breakfast and headed off to work, and Bill had the day off so he got out his toys - the lawn mower, the weed whacker and the grass blower (or in the winter we call it the snow blower). After lunch, Bill headed to meet with a Realtor to check out some properties and then he was golfing for the rest of the day.
I got to spend the afternoon waiting for Gienow to come and replace our "mucky" window. A lot of condensation had built up. They were fast and did an amazing job, considering the guy was on his phone about 5 different times. They even brought in the vacuum and cleaned the mess on the inside. I considered slipping him a couple of $20.00's to do the entire living room..... Instead, I offered them a cold beverage and they headed on their way.
Found a picture of one of my first loves and thought I would share the picture.
You never fall out of love with your first car. This was my brand new Mazda GLC. Bill and I were dating so it was between 1979 and 1985. Bill went with me to pick out the car (it was his suggestion as well). My Dad co-signed the loan with me. I was working at Royal Trust at the time, so got a good deal on a loan rate. I remember my Dad being dumbfounded that we had to pay for a passenger side rear view mirror. In fact, I believe he ended up buying me one for my birthday. I had that car when Bill and I got married in 1985. I parked it at Robin's house the day of the wedding and a couple of days later when I went to pick it up, it was filled with balloons and confetti, compliments of Robin and Peter and some "cousins" from Carmangay - you know who you are. Years later when I sold the car, there was still confetti coming out of the front fans.
Came across a great quote today>
"Your beliefs don't make you a better person, your behavior does." Love it.
Enjoy a great Wednesday night
Stacey
Wednesday today, and tried to squeeze a whole lot of stuff into this midweek day.
Took Mom grocery shopping this morning. She told me she had eaten breakfast before we left, but she sure was picking up a lot of munchie food. After I got Mom's groceries put away, headed home with my own groceries. Both Bill and Patrick arrived home shortly after me. (nothing like missing the chance to bring in the groceries from the car.) Patrick quickly ate his breakfast and headed off to work, and Bill had the day off so he got out his toys - the lawn mower, the weed whacker and the grass blower (or in the winter we call it the snow blower). After lunch, Bill headed to meet with a Realtor to check out some properties and then he was golfing for the rest of the day.
I got to spend the afternoon waiting for Gienow to come and replace our "mucky" window. A lot of condensation had built up. They were fast and did an amazing job, considering the guy was on his phone about 5 different times. They even brought in the vacuum and cleaned the mess on the inside. I considered slipping him a couple of $20.00's to do the entire living room..... Instead, I offered them a cold beverage and they headed on their way.
Found a picture of one of my first loves and thought I would share the picture.
You never fall out of love with your first car. This was my brand new Mazda GLC. Bill and I were dating so it was between 1979 and 1985. Bill went with me to pick out the car (it was his suggestion as well). My Dad co-signed the loan with me. I was working at Royal Trust at the time, so got a good deal on a loan rate. I remember my Dad being dumbfounded that we had to pay for a passenger side rear view mirror. In fact, I believe he ended up buying me one for my birthday. I had that car when Bill and I got married in 1985. I parked it at Robin's house the day of the wedding and a couple of days later when I went to pick it up, it was filled with balloons and confetti, compliments of Robin and Peter and some "cousins" from Carmangay - you know who you are. Years later when I sold the car, there was still confetti coming out of the front fans.
Came across a great quote today>
"Your beliefs don't make you a better person, your behavior does." Love it.
Enjoy a great Wednesday night
Stacey
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