Reflections

It has been a long two weeks for me - I have been very ill. I am feeling better now

During the past couple of weeks as I lay freezing in cold sweats, delirious from high temperatures I had many hours to reflect on not only what was happening in my life but in every one's life and I realized just how much times were changing. Some of these changes are for the better and some not so much. It is time we all evaluated our lives, what we have accomplished and what we want to accomplish. It is time we branch out, come out of our boxes, closets and even our comfort zones.

So many of us live under the rules and conditions our parents taught us, nothing wrong with that for their time, this is a new time. A time for new rules and conditions. I believe we can can change from our youth era brainwashing and still honor our parents and keep our principals as we continue to grow.

The past couple of weeks I watched ads, listened to pundits all filled with messages to bring good people down, demonize and purposely hurt. I don't know about you guys but my parents had solid principals but they didn't teach me these things, well not intentionally. I know if I had chosen to marry outside their (my) faith I risked the chance of being disowned. They weren't mean parents, this is what they knew and were taught. There should never be legislation to force people to follow any churches rules. Churches should be responsible for growing their own members. The Pope nor Billy Graham gets to pick who goes to heaven, that is between us (individual) and God. Freedom of Religion means freedom of everyone/for everyone be it Catholic,  Protestant, Jewish, Hindu or Muslim etc. Who do we think we are to criticize others for believing differently than we do. On reflection I believe we have to take responsibility for our own souls, if we are worried about others then live your life by setting an example. That works!

Let people choose who they marry - don't legislate it! People come at me all the time when I say this especially quoting Scripture. I am a Christian, I listen to others, I read the Bible and on this subject my interpretation is obviously different than some of you. I am so tired of those telling me I am not a true Christian because I don't agree with them. Why? I don't say you are not Christians because you don't interpret the same as I do. I think this is called judging, and in my opinion it is wrong to judge anyone. What happens in people's bedroom is not the governments business anymore than it is mine or yours. Stay out of people's bedrooms!

Pro life versus Pro choice. I don't know why but people have taken this issue and have made it so hard. As Taylor Swift's song goes (sorta -) I would never, never, ever have an abortion. Couldn't do it, wouldn't do it but that doesn't give me the right to go to my neighbor and tell her she must not let her 13 year old daughter have an abortion, no it is their circumstance, their choice, none of us know what may have happened or be happening in another's life and until we do we cannot and must not choose for anyone else. It amazes me how some people want to force a woman to never choose abortion as it is the beginning of life yet find it so easy to give a needle to end a life. If anyone thinks a woman makes the decision of abortion without thought, heartache and tears then they haven't talked to anyone who has made this choice. They have the hard part, we need to reach out and help these women, love them, be there for them whatever they choose,  love without conditions.

Now I come to guns, for the life of me I don't understand why anyone wants a gun. Again I would never ever have one in my house. That is my thought, my choice. Others feel differently and that is their choice. I don't believe to have or have not a gun should be legislated. As long as mothers and fathers believe in the safety and necessity of having guns then there will always be guns in homes. I find it frightening that mentally ill people have access to such weapons. I still don't believe I should tell someone or anyone if they can own or shoot a gun. I am glad that our RCMP, police and other protectors are armed but I am also glad to feel my neighbour's home is gunless as mine is. To me the fact that people feel unsafe in their own homes, or even feel the necessity to carry a gun in their purses or on their person is very sad. Is it common sense over paranoia?

You know there was a time when I was smug and content in knowing I was blessed because I was born a Catholic, spoke English and was a White woman living in a beautiful country like Canada. I had it made, didn't I? Well I was blessed with all of these things but others are blessed just as much as me. They may be a different color, go to a different church or not go to church, believe differently on issues, yes these beautiful people are just as blessed as I am because God loves them just as much as he loves me.

There will always be people who think the world owes them something, after all they didn't asked to be born. These are the people who need us the most. By example we can show them that a hand up is different than a hand out. I realize that we don't live in a perfect world, there are no perfect people nor will there ever be but I also realize no believe that we all can be a little bit better than we are. We can look for the positive and love those who are different than we are, and if we can't wrap ourselves around others ways, then at least offer a smile. Don't ever, ever take away the hope of those who do not look like or believe as you do.

I bet we all are hoping I don't get seriously ill again but for different reasons.......lol


I wish you all joy, health, love and abundance..........big hugs and many prayers always.

The Bracelet

Several years ago I met a lady who quickly became a loyal friend. We had many things in common including dealing with Breast Cancer. This is not why I cared so much for Caren....no I loved her for so much more. I worked with/for her daughter, Tiffany, during my years at GE. Tiffany was like a daughter to me. She was younger than my own daughter, she was kind and understanding. In fact if Tiff had the choice to be right or be kind she always chose kindness.  I think probably Tiffany was our first link to what was to become a knowing, loving and understanding friendship. Caren lived in the city, I out in the rural area. She didn't drive, well she could but she chose not too and everyone knows how I dislike driving in Edmonton. Our face time was limited over the years but through Tiffany we had shopping trips, lunches and shared parties held by Tiffany and her sister Charney. I just really enjoyed being with Caren and her family, they made me feel loved, I wasn't invisible to them, I had a connection with a beautiful family.  At times Caren and I laughed so hard our bellies ached and only her and I even knew what we were laughing at and I have to admit there were times we didn't even understand, we only knew it was funny to us. She had a wicked sense of humor, could find the humor in almost every circumstance. We did spend a lot of time chatting on the phone promising not to reveal each others secrets, we e-mailed and face booked a.lot.

Caren and I both lost our left breast to cancer, she once said gosh we are pathetic we still couldn't make a pair with what's left together could we. She sounded so serious and with the look on her face I broke out laughing and when she realized what she had said and saw how hard I laughed she too began too laugh. We said other things that day and laughed so much and again only her & I "got it". We didn't even try to explain what was so funny to us. This happened to us many times, one afternoon she called me.....it was snowing outside and so cold so she thought we could be miserable together and within 5 minutes we were laughing. We shared our thoughts, the good, bad and the ugly. Our fears were real but together we were able to calm each other down before something would start us laughing again. This was our strongest bond.......laughter! Through her wit I was able to see the humor in almost everything. It could have had something to do with the fact we were both Gemini's born only 2 days apart yet she was much younger than me.

Caren found it hard at times to share her feelings with those she loved the most. She didn't want them worrying about her, her biggest wish was that everyone would carry on as though all were normal. She realized there was a life outside of her cancer, outside of her even and that everyone was busy with their own lives. I am not sure she realized how loved she was. She loved her family so much, her husband, her daughters and her four beautiful grandchildren. One of her wishes was that her grandchildren always know her and how much she loved them. She knew it would have to be through pictures and other people's memories but she tried to create what memories she could with them, even through her illness.

Caren had the greatest sisters ever......every year they would go to Vegas together, wear the same hats so that if they got separated someone always seem to say "oh I saw someone wearing that hat over there a minute ago" and she knew where her sisters were, having fun and always close by. Oh how she loved Debbie and Dee. They laughed more than her and I did. She knew their time together was going to be short and she tried to make it fun and full of good times and memories. She was a wonderful big sister and they loved her just as she was.

Okay back to the bracelet. Tiffany took her mom and I shopping one day, we needed a couple of those "special" bra's. While there we both noticed this really cute bracelet. It wasn't expensive but they only had one. It was an imitation Tiffany Bracelet really. Round silver balls with a heart hanging from it, the heart had a small amethyst in it. Anyway I said go ahead you get it, she said no.....you work, go out more than I do and will wear it more so you get it. We went back and forth on it but I was the one who bought it and wore it often. Whenever we saw each other and I had it on she would always say "there's my bracelet"

Caren eventually became very ill, her cancer had spread to many parts of her body and the last was too her brain. My sweet friend went to hospice. Her sister Debbie and daughter Tiffany were talking to her about me one day but Caren just couldn't remember me or say my name. Tiffany told me as she knew I was going to visit her mom and she wanted to prepare me. Hospice was an hours drive from where I live but I made the drive, found The General and was looking forward to seeing my dear friend. As I sat in the parking lot I couldn't go in, something had happened in my heart and I didn't want to see Caren so ill, or maybe I didn't want to see her only to realize she didn't  remember me. I honestly don't know. I text Tiffany and she was so sweet. She said "it's okay, don't worry as I am going up tonight". I drove home tears streaming down my face and feeling very sad, even angry at myself - to go so far and not complete what I really wanted to do. I wanted to visit my friend and tell her how much I loved her and how special our friendship was too me.

As Caren grew weaker, I grew stronger. I had to see her, no excuse, and I did. I had prepared to see her very sick and was even prepared for her not to recognize me. It didn't matter, I was okay with whatever happened as I realized it wasn't about me, it was about Caren. I hadn't dressed any particular way but I did wear the bracelet we both had loved. I didn' event think anything about it as I put it on.  Honestly I only wore it because it matched my outfit, no other reason. As I walked into Caren's room she was almost asleep. I bent over and kissed her forehead, she opened her eyes and she looked at me and smiled, she said "Bernie, my bracelet". Oh my eyes filled with tears as my heart filled with love.  We chatted and I was surprised at how she was able to carry and understand our conversation although at times she was a bit confused. As I was putting hand cream on her hands her sister Debbie came in. It was so good to see her and watch Caren's eyes light up when she saw her. I loved my time with Caren and Debbie that afternoon. Before I left I slipped the bracelet off my wrist and placed it on Caren's. It looked good on her, it was with the wonderful lady who was suppose to have it. Charney, Caren's oldest daughter told me later that she wouldn't take it off.

Last week week I visited her again, she looked at me then pointed to the bracelet and I knew that she knew who I was. I don't know why, I would of understood if she didn't but I was so pleased she knew it was Bernie who was there. Over the years Caren and I have shared many confidences and that afternoon we shared even more. I knew she was weaker than last week, even a bit more confused but there were times she was so clear and I believe knew exactly what she was saying. Without breaking our confidence in each other's secrets I know she would want me to say how much she loved her family, and sometimes worried about leaving them. She was putting them first, and I love her for that. I hugged her from me and then I said this one is from Debbie and she turned her head and said "where is she" We talked about her family, her mother and father, her sisters and her husband Boo. Oh how she loved him, and even made me smile as she told me of a few things that had happened during their 37 years of marriage. What is important here is that she was perfectly clear when she told me how much she loved and appreciated her family. She even was a bit worried about me, don't know why really just sharing with you what she expressed.

Caren passed away early Thursday morning, I don't know why but her passing hit me very hard. It was a day of tears for me and that night at dinner I had 2 glasses of wine, one for me and one for my dear friend Caren.

Caren was cremated Thursday afternoon. Tiffany and Charney had used the moisturizer I had given her as they prepared her for the end of her journey and had her cremated with the bracelet on. I was so happy to have the bracelet go with her, it brought me comfort. I love you sweet lady, and I love that I had the opportunity to tell you I did and how much I appreciated your friendship. I promised you that day that if Tiffany or Charney ever needed me, I would be there for them. This promise I will never break.

Rest in Peace dear friend, we will meet and laugh again. Of this I am sure!

Winter Is Back and Thanks to a Friend

Hello my friends, I hope you are all sleeping as I should be. I fell asleep in my lazy boy watching Curling tonight and slept for 3 hours so now I am wide awake.

I have had a busy week. I visited a friend in the hospital on the weekend and so glad I did as she passed away today. I am okay with God taking her home, she was suffering badly and I know she is now pain free.. Another family will now begin the grieving process.......so sad but a part of life.

I was surrounded by kids for 3 days this week, babysitting, playing games and just enjoying their happy company. Our weather had been absolutely beautiful, in fact we broke many records the past couple weeks but oh boy Winter came back with a vengeance on Tuesday. So cold and the wind was brutal. They are calling for snow on Sunday.  Will almost be a treat compared to last Winter.

This has been a good time for me to take my Foreign Affairs and Current Events Course. There is so much happening all over the world right now. It is very interesting, I am taking this course online through the University of Alberta and this week we skyped and had a great discussion. I loved hearing the others ideas although I didn't always agree with them (I'm sure they didn't agree with me either) So far I am loving it and have completed my first project. We may be divided into groups for our next project, so looking forward to it. Canada is not perfect but I feel so blessed to be born and living here. We have so much abundance and the people taking the same course are lovely.....yup we are pretty lucky here.

I also am continuing my volunteer work with those dealing with cancer. I found I had to balance my schedule as I get so attached to these beautiful people, I think that is why I am taking my course as for those few hours a week I am not thinking of cancer. I am trying to spend more time with the kids as well before I  move home this summer. I have a few days planned with Fallon at the end of the month which I am looking forward too.

 Cindy at http://thingsaboutwhowhatwhenwhereandwhy.blogspot.com/ changed my blog for me. I love it, thank you sweet friend, I appreciate how patient you are with me and all the time we spent on the phone together. 

The wind has just came up and it is snowing outside, I think it is time I retired as it is way past my bedtime. I am sending good thoughts, many hugs and tons of prayers........:

A Wonderful New Year Ahead - Are You Ready For It

Hello my friends, wishing you all a healthy and happy New Year. I am so looking forward to 2012. If all goes as planned I will put my condo on the market in May and will move back home to New Brunswick during the summer. I am so looking forward to living near my brothers and sister. I am blessed to have many school friends, cousins and old work friends living there as well. It's all good and going to be fun. Don't you just love life, never a dull moment. I don't like thinking about leaving my family here, it will be especially hard leaving Fallon but my plans are to fly her home at least once a year. Her dad agrees. I hope to spend winters in Florida and summers in Shediac, a beach area close to Moncton. The good Lord willing the next chapter in my life will be contented, healthy, happy and filled with love of family and friends, anyway that is my plan.

New Year's was fun, we started out watching the Canadian National Junior team play and win against the USA juniors. The score was 3-2, and it was a very entertaining game. We then had a wonderful meal, for me it was surf and turf......so good! We also had our share of martinis and of course wine with our meal. An nice cup of Tia Chi cinnamon tea followed. Great food, even greater company and wonderful entertainment made for a memorable evening and a great way to ring in a new year.

Sunday, New Year's day 3 ladies and I had a wine and pizza party. Thank heaven it didn't start until 5 o'clock.....I needed some sleep! Honestly Monday was like a professional napping day, I was exhausted. I did manage to take off the pyjamas long enough to go to Weight Watchers that evening feeling quite sure I would be over my weight allowance and have to pay but surprise, surprise I had only gained 1 pound (am allowed 2) so I have to admit I had more energy arriving home then when I left here.

Yesterday, not such a good day.....both my hockey teams lost and then I was really into the Iowa caucus on TV and my guy didn't win but he came close. As a student of foreign affairs I am not that excited about passing in my monthly paper next week. I love learning about other countries, their policies and right now the world is such an interesting place. It sure isn't perfect but it is so good, studying and learning about what is happening around the world has proven to be informative and fun. Our weekly discussions are fantastic, I enjoy them very much. Everyone has an opinion and I love when they explain their position, needless to say I don't always agree. Homework can be time consuming as we are suppose to fact check everything we say or write about. Wish me luck, I will need it to pass this course.

This morning I made the best chicken turkey soup ever and this afternoon when I came home from having my nails done the house smelled so good. I am looking forward to having my supper soon.

Our winter so far has been mild with minimal snow but we have had a bit of freezing rain. My parking lot is like a skating rink, scary really. I was frightened of falling when I went out earlier, it never did warm up enough for anything to melt and I am a bit concerned that we may get snow soon. Even a dusting of snow over that ice will be treacherous.

Have a great week everyone, sending you all big hugs..........:-)

Happy, Blessed and Grateful

It's Christmas morning....early! As I unwrapped myself from the spoon position of two beautiful little girls, I feel so happy. My nieces have cuddled and snuggled all night as they quietly settled waiting for Santa and Christmas morning to arrive. We had giggled, laughed and told stories long into the night before they finally settled into a happy and anticipated sleep. My  great nephew came stumbling into our room wobbling from lack of sleep yet so excited as he worked to clear the cobwebs from his eyes..."Auntie he screamed in his base like voice, so low and deep for such a little boy,  Santa didn't hang the stockings on the fireplace, he laid them under the tree". I smiled as I picked him up and kissed his sweet smelling neck while explaining to him  that maybe the stockings were so heavy that Santa thought it best to lie them down. My nieces woke up and the room was filled with excitement and anticipation as we untangled ourselves from the safety and contentment of each others cuddles.  My heart was filled with so much joy and happiness, it was only a quick prayer, but I thanked God for the most precious of gifts....love! I was surrounded by it, all because 3 of the most important little people in my life were snuggled beside me on this happiest of days. I was so happy. I quickly changed  Dylan's diaper and made him warm and comfortable for the excitement ahead. My nephew had made coffee and oh it smelled so good. I popped the cinnamon buns into the oven and we all gathered around the tree to see what magic Santa had performed while we had listlessly slept throughout the night. Perhaps it is time to tell you about my wonderful nephew who seems to know just what is needed to keep his family happy. He knows that the happiness of his children is far more important to him than anything. He knows that it is more important that his children feel loved, secure and safe. He provides these elements among many other important things for his children. That is why I love him as I do.
As I watched my beautiful niece open her gifts from me a "Guess" purse and a favorite perfume from Chanel, called Chance and I saw her sweet face filled with such joy and appreciation. I knew I had done the right thing.  She was worth it and more. I loved watching my great nephew,  Dylan, pushing all the buttons on his tow truck, fire engine, cement truck as well as many other cars and trucks. He laughed in glee as he made each vehicle move forward, backward and sideways with his remote controls.  His giggles and laughter were infectious,  I laughed out loud at his expression of joy.. I watched as my real life angel, Olivia,  push the buttons of her angel teddy bear as it played a golden violin and watched as its wings changed into reds, greens and blues. Each chord change brought a change of color as it played the most beautiful of all Christmas hymns Silent Night. It was perfect, the morning was perfect and I more than anyone realized and appreciated  the pure love of family. My nephew Greg knows my love of true stories so he chose a book I loved, he choose a movie I would enjoy and something we both love I shared with him......chocolate,  As much as we were different the more we were alike, as in candy, stories, movies and just being together. What a wonderful day we had together.
I watched  my niece Fallon as she accepted the last piece of jewellery my true love gave me before he passed away. I wanted her to have the beautiful opal and London Blue topaz ring Woody had given me. It was important she share in our love, also her beautiful eyes lit up when I gave her the earrings a dear friend brought me as a gift after visiting her beloved India. It was important she receive these pieces as I gave them, with "love". All those who know me know how special my niece Fallon is to me.  She has filled my life and heart with so much joy. 
Last night Fallon and I went to see the move War Horse, I loved it and although I would never have thought it to be a movie of Fallon's choice she tells me she really enjoyed it.
Today Fallon has gone shopping with her best friend Christina, they do this every year. She is happy.
Today I thank God for these little people in my life, for a nephew who understands me and for my family. My brothers, sisters and nieces and nephews....2012 I will be moving back to New Brunswick. I will miss my little people, but for now I am just going to enjoy them.  God is good, life is good and my heart is so full of love and goodness for everyone.  Hope you all had a great Christmas and wishing you all that is good for a wonderful 2012 .......tons of prayers and many hugs always.......:-)

Weekend With Shiloh

Shiloh

Hello my friends, I want you all to meet Shiloh. Fallon got her the weekend before last and I had the privilege of dog sitting last weekend. Fallon and her dad went to a wedding in Saskatchewan so they brought Shiloh over to me around 9 o'clock Friday morning and picked her up early Sunday evening. Needless to say I had an up and down weekend.......she is really good when you are with her, but she wouldn't stay in the yard when I put her out. The first time she got away I was so frightened, I was so worried I had lost Fallon's dog and I knew her heart would be broken. After 15 minutes of panic and calling her name all around the neighbourhood I turned around to come home and there she was just looking up at me. I didn't know whether to hug her or hit her. I hugged her out of pure relief.
What a surprise I had when I came home from Mass. Shiloh had to have been working hard the full hour and ten minutes I was away. She left no room untouched. Oh she was bad but she is so smart. The house looked as though it had just been through an earthquake. Everything was on the floor, cushions, ornaments, pillows off the beds, matts chewed, sandals chewed even the cord on my towel warmer. She managed to pull the registers up from the floor....oh yes she did and she even managed to pull the drawer out from one of my end tables.. Thank heaven she had put cushions down first or I am sure more damage would of been done. Well I really scolded her all the time I was picking up, cleaning and vacuuming. By the time I sat down she looked so sad and sat across the room from me, I couldn't handle those big eyes looking so sad so I got up and gave her a treat. I know I need to learn somethings about dogs, never leave them alone or if you do put her in a kennel or at least close all the doors so they can't wreck everything in their path........or next time I will dog sit her at her house, yup that is what I will do. The funny thing about all this is that even after all the ups and downs, cleaning and shouting I really missed her when they took her home. Can you believe it? Maybe it is time I got my own dog..........on second thought NO WAY!

Hope you all enjoy the first day of summer, sending big hugs to all of you, God Bless...........:-)

Catching Up

Terri is a blogger although it has been a while since she has posted. In fact Terri was one of the original members of "The Village". I truly miss this group of blogging friends, so many have decided blogging wasn't for them.   She lives near by and we met today for lunch, It was great seeing her as it has been a while and I was so pleased. She is doing so much better than she had been. I love knowing my friends are happy and healthy.

We had a great weather today. After lunch I went and picked up my hanging baskets and some potted plants. It is time as I don't think we will have any more frost. We did have some last week. Our weather is so weird.....who knows what it will be like tomorrow. I have spent a couple of days outside this week just raking and cleaning the yards. It was the worst I have seen it, the winter and all the storms had blown in more garbage and pine needles than I remember. It looks much better now.

I picked up my computer today, they wanted almost $800. to repair it to its original state and they were unable to save my pictures. My nephew knew I used the Picasa program for my pictures and told me to check there and sure enough they were there - all.of.them. Thank you Lord.  I wasn't going to pay that much to repair my old laptop anyway as I just bought a new one a few months ago, I only wanted my photos so I brought the old one back home to be recycled.

I have only met with 2 cancer patients this month, they both are going to be fine I just know it. I said to one of them, nine years ago I was sitting right where you are and look at me now. "This is where you will be sitting in nine years.  I have so much faith and hope for both of these patients. I have slowed down, cut back if you will from the cancer community. I became so involved and so close to every one and this winter five of them passed away, each death broke my heart, it was a painful time. I needed to break away for a while and I am only now putting my toe back in the water. I will always be connected to those suffering from this horrid disease but I also feel it is time to begin volunteering or helping in other ways. Perhaps working with seniors or children. As long as I am with people I am happy and there are so many out there who needs a warm smile and a gentle hug. Helping others makes volunteers happy, especially when they appreciate the extra time and attention a volunteer is willing to give. This world is not all about us, it is about giving and sharing ones time, love and resources with others who are not as fortunate or who need a hand up. Honestly I don't have time for people who only want a hand out. I think I would like to work with those suffering from Autism, not only the children but their parents need some time and attention as well. It is something I am seriously thinking about any way. Seniors are another group I love spending time with even if it is just to drive them to a doctor's appointment or to pick up groceries. It really does feel good to help others, I have been blessed with so many helping me through my bad times, no it is not pay back time it is pay it forward time,

Okay off to prepare for the weekend which just may be a surprising one. Hope you are all doing well, enjoying the late Spring and soon to be Summer. Keeping you all in my prayers and as usual sending tons of hugs...............:-)

A Wonderful Week

Hello everyone, I have had the most wonderful week......it was my birthday and boy have I milked  the happy occasion this year. My friend Terry is home from wintering in California and arrived on Thursday. Weight Watchers really took a back seat as we were out for breakfast, lunch and supper. We went shopping and one evening went to see the movie "Bridesmaids" It was funny and we laughed a lot through it but it was a bit rough around the edges.

 

I bought these sandals as a birthday gift for myself. I really liked them (so did Fallon) One of my friends asked me if I had a new pedicure but I hadn't, in fact I am having a spa day on Wednesday and am really looking forward to it.

These are cards and gifts from my family and friends, I had many calls as well in fact my friend Terry answered two of them and before she could say it wasn't me on the line she had to listen to two versions of Happy Birthday.

Fallon - she is going to be mad I am showing this picture....lol

I think she is pretty in every picture!

My nephew Greg, his children (Fallon, Olivia and Dylan) took me for a birthday lunch today,. We then went to pick up TV's . I got a 32" flat screen for the living room and a 24" flat screen which is also a DVD player for my bedroom. He then took the old TV's and some old computer equipment to the recycle pod for me. I have wanted to have these things done for a while now and I am so pleased that the TV's are hooked up and the house is cleaned and back together. It was so good to have time with the kids, I miss them so much when they go home. Fallon was over last weekend with me as well. The house seems so quiet, almost empty whenever they leave.

Yesterday was the town wide garage sale. My friend Pat held one at her house and I spent the afternoon with her and her family,. It was fun and what they say is so true, one man's junk is another man's treasure. Our weather has been so nice, I even managed to get some much needed colour.

This is my great niece Amanda, she has just graduated from University. She is following her brothers footsteps and becoming a chartered accountant. Not only is she beautiful she was awarded first class honours with distinction. We are all so proud of her. Congratulations sweetie, love and miss you very much.

I also spent time with Madi on Wednesday, she is pretty special to me as well. As you can see my week was filled with so much fun and with people I love very much. I am truly blessed.

Keeping you all in my heart and prayers and sending everyone a big hug.......:-)

Major Fires Out of Control in Alberta

Hello my friends, it has been hot and very windy in Alberta. We have several fires burning throughout the province and one town of 7000 people has almost completely been destroyed. So sad yet so far I haven’t heard of anyone being injured. Homes, banks, schools and many businesses have been destroyed. The province has come together famously donating clothing, food, furniture and places to stay. Fire fighters from all over Canada have arrived to help. Hotels are putting up families at no charge and large fund raisers are being held daily. Today I took over several bags of clothing and a box of food. As I approached the hugs semi trailer I couldn’t believe the line ups of cars and people, all there to donate to those in need. I felt so proud to be a Canadian.


My friend Terry is home after being away for several months in California then British Columbia. I am so pleased having her back. I have already started my list of where we need to go and the first stop will be Costco……..time to stock up the freezer for bbq’s this summer.

I went shopping today as my friend Pat is having a surprise birthday party for her husband Friday night. We are only supposed to bring a card but I was trying to find a funny gift. Honestly when I am not looking for something like this I always find funny things but today I could find nothing. From now on I am going to pick up these funny little gifts as I find them and keep them in my gift cupboard. It looks like I take him a bottle of wine, but I am going into the city on Thursday so maybe I’ll find something then.

One of my computers went down yesterday. I have hundreds of pictures on it so I took it into the shop today to see if they can fix it. He said if it was a corrupted disc they would fix it but if it was a broken hard drive there wouldn’t he much he could do. Cost me $50.00 to leave it there for diagnoses but if I let them fix it that money will be incorporated into the actual cost.. …we’ll see if they can fix it. I still have this newer laptop but I don’t like the Windows 7 program. I really liked Windows XP, but maybe I can work on this program and get use to it.

It was great hearing from you all recently, catching up on your news and knowing you and your families are doing well makes me very happy.

I miss hearing from Jackie and Janine and am hoping they will be back soon. I am praying that all is going well for them.

Talk soon, sending big hugs…..:-)

It's Been So Long

Hello my friends, I purposely meant to take a break but I honestly didn't mean to be gone so long. I have tried to visit your blogs but life got in the way. I have missed you and often wondered how everyone has been doing. Thankfully I was able to keep up a bit on Facebook.

So much has happened I couldn't possibly cover it all. Some of it yucky but most of it good. I am happy and healthy and very thankful for every moment.

We went from Winter right to Summer, no Spring in my neighbourhood. The past week and a half has been beautiful and oh to see the grass turning green, the buds on the trees and feeling the warm breeze has lifted every one's spirits. We were all burnt out as our Winter was very long this year. They say we are in for a very hot summer and I am hoping they are right about that.

When I woke up this morning and turned on the shower the water was ice cold. Yesterday I had my furnace cleaned and they forgot to light the pilot light in my water tank. One of my friend's granddaughter was here after school. She had track and field yesterday then last night she was in a play with her youth group at church so rather than take the school bus home she came here for her shower and snack before I drove her to church. She didn't mention the water was cold but I thought it didn't take her very long to shower and change. Now I know why. Poor kid, bet she won't want to shower here again.

I have finished my spring housecleaning, changed from winter linens to summer linens and the bedrooms look so bright and fresh. I was able to pack six bags of clothes for those in need. No one should have as many clothes or jewelry as I do. Some outfits still had price tags on them and a lot of things I had forgotten I had. That happens sometimes when we go through grief or trying times. It looks like my drug of choice was shopping. Oh well it is all sorted now and I love opening the closet and dresser drawers. So nice to see what is actually in there.....

I am having some renovations done to my condo/townhouse; 2 bathroom vanities, 2 sinks, 1 soaker tub, and a one piece surround for the tub wall. When this is finished I am going to have downstairs painted and hopefully my nephew will repair the deck. These renovations will be all I do before I sell and move back to New Brunswick next summer. I am looking forward to having it all done. I am expecting a cousin and my brother and his family this summer for a visit. I also would like to go home in August, we'll see.

I think I told you I joined Weight Watchers on Jan 10th,  Well it has been slow but I have lost 18 and 1/2 pounds. I am trying to loose 10 more. I feel so much better with the weight off, my clothes fit better (even though I had most sizes) but even better than that my arthritis isn't as painful. Taking the weight off has helped my joints, only wish it would take away all the pain.

I had a wonderful Easter and Mother's Day and sincerely hope you all did as well. I am trying to make it around to all your blogs to catch up. Wishing you all a great weekend.....sending you all big hugs:-)

A Letter to Shauna

A few days ago I and a few others were contacted by Shauna's family to write to her and share how much she has touched our life. They were reading our responses to her. Well this morning dear sweet Shauna passed away. I am devastated and unable to find the words I feel in my heart right now so I am posting the e-mail I sent to her sister. Shauna's picture is just to your left.  Please keep Shauna's husband Darren, her two babies, parents and all of her family in your prayers as they learn to live in this world without their beautiful Shauna.

Dear Shauna


I have begun this post so many times and find the tears interfere with what I want to say. They don't stop so through blurry eyes I put my heart into words.

It has been almost two years since we met Shauna as well as meeting your beautiful sisters through blogging. I instantly fell in love with all of you. Your love of God, family and home was always the base for each of yours/their post.

In one post you shared how wonderful Darren, your husband, was. You said one time that he always knew he was going to marry you, even before your first date. (I love that sweet Shauna is loved by such a wonderful man.)

I believe this love is because you are such a loyal, loving and wonderful wife. Your children have been blessed with such a loving mother. Your love for them is so pure, it will last a lifetime, as I believe love lives forever in our hearts.

You have so many blessings in your life, and the best part is no one has to remind you of them - you just know - you are so thankful for everything beginning with a fresh sunrise to a beautiful sunset and all that comes in between.

You have been such an inspiration to all of us. Your strong faith has never wavered through all the challenges you have faced. You are pure love.

God has blessed you with one of the most loving families I have had the pleasure to meet through blogging. Chas and Debbie have set an example how relationships between sisters and (in laws) should be. The way God meant it to be. They love you Shauna so much and love all the fun times you have shared together. They have even managed to turn the challenges into a labor of love. I had a lovely e-mail from your mother, what wonderful parents God gave you and how blessed they are to have you as their daughter. The love a parent has for their child is one so great that no words can describe it, actions can a bit and I know how much you appreciate all your mom and dad have done for you, I also believe it is because they are so thankful that God gave you to them. I soon realized who had taught you about love, I think of your parents daily in prayer as well.

Sweetie there is so much I want to say to you, we never had the pleasure of meeting in person but one day we will meet in heaven and instantly recognize each other by the bond we share - our love of the Lord. I will recognize your beautiful sparkling eyes and be reminded of the positive way you have always lived your life. I have prayed for you every day for almost two years now, held you in my thoughts and always in my heart. I know you won't mind when I tell you I have shared "your" prayer time with your husband, children, parents, sisters and all those who love you. I want them to have your courage and understanding of all that is happening.

You are such an inspiration, a dear sweet spirit, spreading faith, hope and love wherever you go. Much like an angel I expect.

Please know you have someone in Canada who loves and cares for you and your family very much. I will continue to hold you up in prayer every day sweetie, always in my heart.

Big Hugs and Prayers Always

Hello Everyone

Hello my friends, I have put off posting as I really didn't want to keep sharing my fall, my injuries or bruising or even the death of friends and funerals. These things have kept me busy the past few weeks. I have just realized that if I waited for only happy times then I would be a while posting.

Tonight my heart is going out to our fellow human beings in Japan. What they are going through is pure devastation. Here we worry about houses going into foreclosure, there their homes are gone forever, here we worry about an injury or illness in our family over there whole families are gone forever. Putting our lives into perspective brings me back to a reality filled with gratitude and appreciation. I realize I have nothing to complain about considering what our dear friends along the Pacific are enduring. Life can be so hard at times, almost unbearable but when we in North America have so much it only brings me a huge sigh of gratitude for my life, my family and my friends. I pray for all of those affected by this horrible earthquake and tsunami. May God be with you all at this time, and grant your loved ones peace.

I honestly think it is time we quit complaining about what we don't have in our lives but begin being very thankful for what we do have. Quit blaming everyone for our problems, accept responsibility for where we are and be so very thankful that we are just where we are suppose to be. Help our neighbours, love our families, accept their faults ...... we all have them. Work together to make a more beautiful place to live for our children and grandchildren. Accept everyone no matter their color, politics or religion. So many people need our love, understanding and prayers. I cannot understand for the life of me why Charlie Sheen is on every channel on TV when provinces and states are in such turmoil. We just have to get our act together my friends, we need each other, we are all one. No one is any better or any worse than another, let us pull together and help each other. We all need love and a connection to each other. No better time than now to start doing the right thing.

I have just returned from Weight Watchers, I am down 14 pounds....woo hoo! I really don't have a lot more to loose, I am happy with the size I am but I will continue to go every Monday night with my friend who is doing very well. I am so happy for her well for both of us really.

For the first time in weeks we were above zero today. The sun was shining and I went for a walk. It felt absolutely wonderful. The sun shining on my face, seeing all the kids out playing and everyone I met on my walk was in such a good mood. I think the sunshine does that for us. I am happy tonight, content and so thankful for the life I lead. I am surrounded by so many people I love, I have a warm and comfortable home and I can afford to eat whatever I want to. Finally I feel great, no pain, no bruises not even a cold. My family and friends are doing well. Our weather is finally warming and showing signs of Spring.  Life is good and I pray you all are appreciating all that your life provides for you and your families.

Sending you all big hugs and many, many prayers......God Bless....:-)

Hello my Friends.....I Have Missed You

I am back.....I am not sure for how long but I know I will be back on a regular basis very soon. I miss you all so much when I am away.

January has been a long and painful month for me. I have been ill but more important I am in pain for losing so many of my beautiful friends to cancer. Have I told you how much I hate this disease. This Saturday I attend another funeral.....this one my friend of many years who at 62 years old lost has lost her life to heart disease. A first for me really, other than my husband  but her death which happened this morning is so sudden. This also will be my fourth funeral since the New Year began. My heart aches for their families and the loved ones left behind.  I will attend her funeral knowing that she would want me to be strong and carry on with my life in this beautiful world. As hard as it will be I will do it, I love life and all the beautiful things it offers all of us. Somehow I will survive, and I know God is the reason I do. I have been asked to speak at my friend's funeral, pray that I will find the right words to express what a beautiful lady she truly was. I want to do her justice, show her respect and also share my love for her.

Our weather has been lovely these past two weeks. It has been warm, sunny, and just so great to be outside enjoying all the great things winter has to offer. I love winter.....I love the snow.....I love the warm breezes it brings in from the South that melts the snow and our hearts....winter is a good thing!

Tonight as I was approaching my car to pick up my friend to attend a Weight Watchers meeting, I fell! It wasn't a graceful fall, I must of looked like a new born calf trying to stand for the very first time. It was a hard fall and I am bruised from my left ankle to my left shoulder but nothing was broken and I am thankful. It could of been much worse. For about an hour I was quite shaken, I almost cried as I felt so out of control and I scraped and bruised my body, but I carried on. I picked up my friend and we went to Weight Watchers. The good news is I lost another 2 pounds, the bad news is that I am black and blue all over my left side. I am not sure about all these viruses and pain I have experienced these past several weeks.....is it because of old age or carelessness. I don't know, all I know right now is the pain in my heart for my friend Ellie who died this morning and a painful body from my fall tonight. I do know I am tired of pain and I am tired of losing so many friends. Four funerals since Jan.1st is 4 too many. I loved them all and will miss them even more. Did I tell you growing old sucks! Age I don't mind, deaths and illnesses I do!

I am doing very well losing weight, not many more pounds until I reach my goal weight. This is good, but I am still trying to convince myself that weight is important......it didn't help my friends who have passed, perhaps it will help me. I know my clothes fit better, I look better but it doesn't do one thing about the pain in my heart for my friends or their families. it breaks my heart to see their pain. It is times like these that I think I am being shallow - trying to improve my appearance when others are suffering.

I want to tell you all how important you are too me, how much I love you. If you have a friend who has a terminal illness don't let them die surrounded by flowers, stuffed toys and cards......be there for them. Do their laundry, go grocery shopping for them, help them pay their bills, do whatever will help them feel better. So many friends I know are alone, and people seem to wear out quickly after a couple of weeks of attending someone in ICU. It is easier for them to send a card or message.....I am asking you to give a couple of hours a week, even every two weeks....just be there to help them do what they want done. It is so important, believe me when I tell you this. They have told me directly and I try to do as they ask, please do what they want not what is convenient to you at the time. People deserve the respect, love and dignity to die with the knowledge that they are loved and their feelings are important.......whenever someone tells me they are feeling down I tell them....please do something for someone else in need. You will feel so much better and so will they. Make it about them, right now how they feel is important, it is not about you......

I am happy to say I am feeling better health wise. I have been feeling sad losing so many friends I love. I so hate CANCER! I can not bare the pain it has brought to so many families but then how I feel is not that important. It is not my will that counts, God Will Be Done......He knows the reason!

It has been warm and lovely the past week, tomorrow our winter returns. I am okay with it, after all it is only mid February......we still have a few more months of winter.

I hope you all have had a wonderful Valentine's Day filled with much love. Today is my mother's birthday. She would of  been 89 years old, she is spending her birthday in heaven with my dad, my son, my husband and so many others I love and miss. I love you Mum, Happy Birthday.

Have a great week everyone, know that you all are in my heart, prayers and thoughts always.....I have decided that from this day forward I am going to love everyone and everything including the brutal weather, life is too short not to live it fully......

Much love and many, many hugs........God Bless.....:-)

My Word for 2011

Hello my friends, I so hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year holiday. It is such a magical time of year.

I had a lovely holiday, except for battling a horrible cold, but seriously I enjoyed time with family and friends and spent time at church. With Christmas and New Year's being on Saturday this year, I found myself at Mass the past 2 Saturdays and Sundays. Also we had reconciliation Christmas week. Everyone is in such a good mood during the holidays, the children were all bathed and bubbling over with excitement waiting for Santa, the fir trees surrounding the alter not only glittered with soft lights but smelled so good. I am full of great food and fine wines. I have enjoyed every second with the people I love and now I am ready to face the thrills and challenges of 2011.

I love the beginning of a New Year, it is filled with so much hope and expectation. Personally I try not to have to many expectations, I like to take one day at a time - enjoy it and move forward. I love the calm, peace and loved shared when the New Year arrives......I wish you all a wonderful New Year filled with love, health and happiness.

My word for this year is "discipline" and boy this is going to be a challenge. Not only do I need discipline to say no to more chocolate, but to say no to people who try and speak for me, I can speak for myself thank you very much. My friend and I have joined weight watchers, I need to loose 22 pounds, my friend 57 and I honestly cannot imagine her with this weight loss, she isn't all that big now, in fact she is such a happy person one only sees her smile not the weight but we will support each other as we work towards our goal. Our meetings are Monday nights, it has to be a life change for me......I know I will feel better for it, wish me luck okay.

We still have tons of snow but it has warmed up a bit, at least for today. Have a great week everyone,

God Bless and many, many hugs.......:-)


 

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas from my house to yours

May you all be blessed with the love of family and friends.

God Bless you always............. many, many hugs!

A Taste of Louisana

Snow came far to early in Alberta

I was warm and cozy reading by the fire, my favorite place to be when it is cold outside and it is!

The doorbell rang and looked what I received......A parcel from Miz  Mollye

I was so excited, Mollye included everything. The small saucer and teapot was her mother in law's, can you see the snowman and the perfect book for especially for this time of year.

Can you see the Reindeer pin? So cute. Also included were Cajun Country Long Rice, Hot Sauce, Cajun Seasoning, Gumbo Mix and even a desert - Cobbler Mix. I wish I could pick out a favorite but I can't I love it all. Thank you Miss Mollye - thank you so very much,  you are truly a special friend.

It has been a couple of weeks since I have posted and so much has happened, I have been really busy but I think that is what this time of year is all about. Visits from family, friends, Christmas parties and one really special Christmas Tea.

I am just about ready for Christmas, and this year is going to be my best Christmas ever....it already has been a wonderful few weeks - our small town is brightly lit with Christmas lights, our church looks absolutely beautiful this Advent season with trees, boughs, wreaths and sparkling lights. I love Christmas!

I have a busy 3 weeks ahead of me, I don't know why but I couldn't seem to say no to anything this year and this Cinderella's dance card is full.......I am so blessed and every day I am so thankful. Ah life is good my friends. I am wishing you all a wonderful Christmas Season surrounded by family, friends and much love. Love  is all around us, we just have to reach out and touch it.

Hopefully I won't be away as long as I have been but I think you all know you are in my heart and prayers as I try and visit all of your blogs daily. Until next time God Bless and many, many hugs.......:-)

 

Update From The Great White North

Hello my friends…..I would say I am back but I really haven’t been gone. I have been busy with life. I spent 4 days in the mountains with 3 very good friends. We went from home to Jasper on to Banff then to Calgary and it was absolutely breathtakingly beautiful. We had snow or snow flurries every day and it was a true winter wonderland.


Last week I had to prepare for a speech which I presented yesterday before 300 people, I didn't mind as I am use to public speaking. For several years I have sat on two Boards, these were appointments made by the Provincial Government and for the most part I have enjoyed my position even though at times I have found the responsibilities to be a burden. You see I don’t like judging people, not good at it don’t want to be good at it. The only reason I continued is I know I am fair and able to see hopefully each side of the story. Yesterday was my last speech, it was a good day but today I feel relieved and satisfied that I have finished and someone new has been appointed in my place. I have never spoken about this part of my life, for a couple of reasons, first it was a political appointment and secondly we dealt with confidential material. Oh it wasn’t life or death situations but the decisions we made - made a difference to those involved. You see our Board heard appeals when residents felt they were treated poorly or unfairly. It could have been someone appealing their house taxes or someone wanting their medical supplies included in their monthly supplements or just more money for snow suits for their children. We heard and seen many sad stories, in fact not one hearing was a happy case really but I had accepted the appointment so I like to think we did a thorough and fair account for everyone who came before our Board. There were 3 of us on the Board; we all finished as of yesterday after several years together. Each Board consisted of 2 professionals and a lay person. Our Board had a lawyer, social worker and I was the lay person. One has just recently gone from lawyer to judge, something he has worked at and wanted for a long time now, the other is slowly losing her battle with cancer and I am so proud of her. Not once did she let her illness sway her opinion or keep her from completing her appointment, and even though we all had empathy for everyone we made our decisions on facts and circumstances. I learned so much sitting on these Appeal Boards, the first being that the world is not black and white; there are many, many grey areas. Too many are so quick to criticize others without walking in their shoes. I thank God for each lesson I learned but not for the unfortunate circumstances which taught me. We had a provincial coordinator who would inform each client of our decision within 10 days of their hearing. Our addresses and phone numbers were kept confidential for safety precautions and if we had a client whose file was red flagged we had security sitting just outside the hearing room. There were times we had to travel but we always went together. Hearing rooms were booked at the convenience of the client. I will miss my time with my co-workers and also the people I met holding this position but it is time for someone else to do this. Our lives are meant to change even though most of us dislike change……now it is time to get back to some serious volunteer work although the per Diem's and mileage checks will be missed I'm sure....lol

We have had a real Artic freeze this past week, and everything is covered in snow, but that’s okay after all it is November in Alberta and it is suppose to cold and snowy. Right now it is -23 with light snow falling.

We are watching the semi finals of the CFL today, sitting beside a warm fire. I have a ham baking in the oven and I am so happy to begin a new chapter in my life……..Life is good people!

Have a great week, sending big hugs to all of you........:-)

Mixed Emotions

Hello my friends, I have missed you. My world has been filled with so much this week and I am quite please to see the back of it.


I have had a week of emotions, up and downs, it was the anniversary of my son’s death and I always find this to be an emotional time. I realize this isn’t about my son but about me and how I feel……once I let go and let God take over I was fine. I cannot change any of the past so I was pleased when I finally remembered the years he lived and all the love we shared......I stopped focusing only on the day he died and focused on the day he was born and how my heart was overfilled with love and happiness.

I had 2 cortisone shots in my spine this week, yup they were painful but I am feeling so much better today. It was so worth it. Ahhh life is good without pain|!

I lost another friend to cancer this week, perhaps it is my age but I find that more and more are falling to this horrid disease. I am glad they are no longer suffering but my heart aches for those who are left behind. I know how hard it’s going to be to make the adjustment of not having their loved one in their life. I don’t like to see anyone in this kind of pain but I also realize only they can walk through their grief and as much as I care I know no one can do it for them. It is not about what happens in our life but how we react to it. We all deal with grief differently. So my heart, love and prayers go out to all who are dealing with grief, I love you but more important God loves you.

Our weather has been lovely but today turned quite cold. I am sitting beside a delicious fire and watching my favourite sports. I have 2 TV’s side by side watching football and hockey and up to a few minutes ago I watched Curling on my computer………..okay so I am an addict……My name is Bernie and I am totally addicted to sports. If you like sports this is a great time of year…….ummmm maybe that is why I love Fall so much. Today has been fun.

Fallon called last night, she is off school next week.  I only wish I didn’t have such a full week ahead of me or I would have her here with me but Monday I am going to a holistic doctor (I know, expensive and for what) Tuesday I am joining two friends I use to work with for lunch and then Wednesday after a hair cut I am heading to the mountains for 4 days with friends who are so special to me…….have I told you how blessed I am. I will be back on Saturday. Thursday we are taking part in a Remembrance Day ceremony at Rocky Mountain Legion.

It was brought to my attention not too long ago, a friend or who we thought was a friend has started a new blog under a different name. Why? Her writing is the same, she has the same goals, problems and family as she always had……why do some people think betraying their loyal friends is the right thing to do. It is not, and those who were faithful followers, who tried to encourage and help her, are left bewildered some even hurt by the betrayal. Personally I wasn’t hurt, it is her business but I was disappointed that she would think she could fool us……we were not long figuring out it was the same person. The lesson I have learned….those that are unhappy and miserable are going to be that way no matter what we say. They enjoy being miserable and its as though they have nothing to talk/write about if it is not about how unhappy they are, they enjoy complaining, and seeking out compassion and attention. Sorry, I won’t play this game, there are  many who truly have problems who need our help.  I have also learned to appreciate the warm, caring and honest people in my life. They are real, and though we may not always agree on everything we respect, love and truly care for each other, have any of you had this happen to you after almost 2 years of being blogger friends. I am pretty sure we are not the only ones who have been mislead.

My cleaning friend came in this week to do my floors, so tiny so cute and she works so hard. Her husband came to pick her up and I smiled as I watched them say hello to each other. He helped her as much as he could and she so appreciated it…..they really love each other and it showed. I am so blessed to have met this young couple, we help each other in many different ways. (well they help me and I tip well......lol)

I am off to enjoy a full week, November 11th is Remembrance Day, so I will fill my week surrounded by people I love and spend Thursday remembering all those I love who have gone before me, especially my husband who spent 25 years in the Air Force. I so miss him.

Have a great week everyone, God Bless and many, many hugs……:-)

A Busy But Good Week



Hello my friends, it has been a busy week here in Morinville. I was blessed to meet a blogging friend, Sheila who lives approximately 2 hours north of me. She is lovely and confirmed my faith in the blogging family.  I am only sad to say neither one of us had a camera. We were able to enjoy a lovely chat over coffee at Tim Horton's.  That was on Monday which was a full day of lunch, shopping and appointments.

Tuesday found me having bone scan and  everything was fine. I don't have to do this very often. We have a wonderful hospital, Cross Cancer, in Edmonton. They are fabulous but I see so much pain and sadness there. There are happy faces as well especially when one finishes their treatment. I also had an IV treatment for my bones, again something I don't have done very often. I don't mind having it, I just don't like the time involved as I have to drive into the city, it is a full day but I am not complaining, so many others have it worse. My blogging friend RivkA in Israel, has been living with Cancer for several years, I have been thinking of her and her family all week. She is in hospital now and is not doing very well. This is so sad as she has 3 young children who so needs their mother. Life isn't fair at times.

I went to the hockey game last night and my Edmonton Oilers lost.......you wouldn't believe so many people could be at one place, it was so much fun.  The fans were loud and proud and some were so funny, I think that had something to do with beer....lol  I love seeing everyone having such a good time, even with the loss my friend and I had a wonderful time. We stopped  for a coffee on the way home and I smiled as I walked into Tim Hortons again. Gosh I was there everyday this week but one. I do love my Tim's.

This morning I woke up to rain mixed with snow. It continued to rain off and on all day. I had to drive into St. Albert to pick up a parcel and with the wind it was really cold. Tonight when I put my garbage out it was snowing and still is. My car is covered but it is not staying on the ground, hopefully our beautiful Fall weather will be back in a few days. We have had a lovely Fall.....makes it easier to handle winter.

Do any of you have a problem when you go to preview your post, I just get a blank page.

Wishing you all a wonderful week! God Bless and many, many hugs........:-)



What I am Thankful For This Thanksgiving

Hello my friends, there are some e-mails that are so worth sharing and in my opinion this is one of them especially during our Thanksgiving.


 What I Am Thankful for This Thanksgiving
For the teenager who is not doing dishes 

but is watching TV, 

because that means he is at home 

and not on the streets.
For the taxes I pay, 

because it means that I am employed.
For the mess to clean after a party, 

because it means that I have been surrounded by friends.
For the clothes that fit a little too snug, 

because it means I have enough to eat.
For my shadow that watches me work, 

because it means I am out in the sunshine.
For a lawn that needs mowing, 

windows that need cleaning, 

and gutters that need fixing, 

because it means I have a home.
For all the complaining I hear about the government, 

because it means that we have freedom of speech.
For the parking spot I find at the far end of the parking lot, 

because it means I am capable of walking, 

and that I have been blessed with transportation.
For my huge heating bill, 

because it means I am warm.
For the lady behind me in my place of worship 

when she sings off key, 

because it means that I can hear.
For the pile of laundry and ironing, 

because it means I have clothes to wear.
For weariness and aching muscles 

at the end of the day, 

because it means I have been capable of working hard.
For the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours, 

because it means that I am alive.
and finally....
For too much e-mail, 

because it means I have friends who are thinking of me.

 

God Bless and many, many hugs...........:-)