CHRISTMAS

I was behind schedule more than usual this year. The only thing ready for my family’s arrival on Christmas day was the ragout (the traditional Quebecois dish for the season), and the tortières (meat pies), both prepared and put in the freezer last Sunday. And the tree, which my friend had been gracious enough to install and decorate, because I was seriously wondering where I would find the time to do it. Now, on early morning of December 24th, my normal enthusiasm for the season was at an all-time low. One day left, no shopping done, and the cold/flu I’d been battling for the past few days was winning. I could think of nothing better than huddling in my warm bed.

“Let’s get a move on.” My friend was standing at the door which joins our homes, holding out a cup of coffee. Seeing my expression, he grinned. Not very sympathetic. “A little effort,” he said, “You’ll feel better once you get dressed and out.”

He was right, of course. Together we combed the stores, found everything on our lists, and even managed to pick up groceries – all in record time. There were many, many shoppers mulling around, but everyone was smiling, including the service people, and it was infectious. By 4:30 PM the last of our packages were in my truck, and it was finally ‘beginning to feel a lot like Christmas’. My friend was driving, and I had no complaint when he stopped at a favourite restaurant. We found ourselves alone in the dining area, with an exceptionally cheerful waitress, delicious food, and it was exactly what I needed to complete the transformation. The Spirit was back.

So, everything was ready when my family showed up on Christmas day. The youngest grandchildren (5 and 2 ½ years old), eyed the colourful array Santa had left under the tree, but managed to wait without too much fuss until all the Uncles and Aunties showed up, adding more presents, which the jolly old fella had left at their houses the night before. The excitement built up until, finally, Uncle B., Santa’s designated helper, gathered us around for the distribution. Paper went flying through the air, under the table, into the couches. Due to over-zealous unwrapping of ANYTHIING by our two youngest participants, some of the gifts were held up for inquiry as to who they were for, and the giver laughed and called out the name. It was pure bedlam – and I loved every minute of it!

We surrounded the table and feasted, camera flashes still catching many of us unaware. Then a precious highlight of the evening – the little guys were put into the jacuzzi for their bath. I think the whole family crowded into the bathroom at one point, laughing at their antics as they swam in the bubbles, their happy, little faces radiating surprise, a bit of apprehension, then sheer joy when the water jets were turned on by Dad. Another memory for M’mère (me) to hold in her heart, and one that will put a smile on her face for years to come.

By 10 PM the house was quiet – it was already way past bedtime for the little ones. My friend, who had spent the day with his own family, knocked on the door, then entered to share a nightcap. We sat by the fire, the dogs at our feet, the Yuletide music (taped and received from my brother as a gift) playing softly in the background.

“All that for one day, huh?”, he remarked.
“Uh-huh…one day,” I agreed, my thoughts still basking in the warmth my family had left behind them.

“But that’s what life is, isn’t it?” I mused. “A whole bunch of “one day”’s?” And from each of those days come the memories which sustain us to the end, until it is time for us to move on.

FORGET THE CIRQUE DU SOLEIL??

My memory has become a fickle thing. It could be the result of overwork, daily doses of stress, this cold medication I’ve been taking, or just the natural age factor. Whatever, it played a nasty trick on me this month, and very nearly got away with it!

My business associates were not able to attend the birthday bash held for me in July. They more than made amends by coming to the office later that week and giving me two tickets (very GOOD ones!) for the famous “Circle du Soleil”, which was being presented in Montreal…last night! I was overjoyed, and put them away carefully in my top drawer so that I wouldn’t lose them. Reading my first paragraph may lead you to think, “She couldn’t remember where she put them”. Wrong. I just forgot about them altogether!!

December is always a busy time. We have three companies who need to have financial statements completed and sent out by the end of the month, gifts to choose and wrap for our clients, the holiday schedule to work out, an office party to prepare, etc., etc. – plus our own personal shopping and seasonal activities to take care of. Added to that this year was my grandson’s fifth birthday party last week, and celebrating my daughter’s 40th, happening tonight. As the list of ‘Things to do’ became longer, my tired brain seemed to get smaller, this nagging head cold aside. I am running behind in everything, and find myself losing precious time by having to just sit and force my memory out of its neutral state. It tends to go blank. Traitor!

To prove how distracted I was (am), there was total non-reaction on my part when one of my co-workers mentioned the ‘Circle du Soleil’ event while in the lunch room this week. She had seen it last year, and was enthusiastically recommending it to all of us. I still find it hard to believe that her words did not turn on the light. I don’t even have the excuse of not hearing her, because I did, but…no bells and whistles. Then Yoshiko, my daughter-in-law who is part of my team, turned and said, “Mom is going to see it this time.” I stared at her. I am?? Then...bang! I remembered! Those tickets!!

What followed was a scramble to hunt through the desk drawer to check out the date, hoping it wasn’t tonight, the same time as my daughter’s party. Then a sigh of relief, and a bit of re-organizing when I discovered it was not. I was able to attend, and it was a spectacular show! I don’t even want to imagine what I’d have felt to have missed it. Yoshiko merits a huge, thankful hug!

There is something to learn from everything, and this time, of course, it’s that I need to slow down and, as Kilroy put it, smell the roses. Usually I can ignore the warning when my body tries to tell me. Pop more vitamins, an extra hour of snooze…and keep going. However, one has to pay attention when your mind and/or memory come into play. Whether you want to or not, you come to a complete stop if you DON'T pay attention. And it’s scary. Now I need to figure out a way to do it. If I remember……

As long as I don’t forget to SMILE – which I haven’t – am sending out a huge one for you all!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

MY SON'S CHRISTMAS PRESENT - PART 2

My daughter’s tears sent my stomach spiralling down to my feet. Emotions raged inside – acute disappointment, a frenzied anger, a sense of hopeless defeat and, certainly not least, relief for having mentioned nothing to my son. It all showed on my face. Before I could start ranting and raving aloud, my daughter hastened to set things straight.

“They won’t tell me anything!” she exclaimed. “It’s so damned frustrating!”

I should have remembered crying came easy to this tender-hearted child of mine. In spite of her strength, anything remotely distressing could set it off. Catching my breath, I allowed a tiny glimmer of hope to reassert itself. My friend, knowing both of us so well, put a comforting arm around my shoulders.

“It will be okay – she’s probably just stuck in there waiting on baggage,” he soothed. “Don’t get upset before you know what’s happening.”

Then there she was.

I was looking at my friend that exact moment when she exited the gate, and it was his sudden, huge smile that turned me in the direction of his gaze. Yoshiko was walking toward us, her face sporting an immense grin of triumph, and I’m sure I sent up a thousand prayers of gratitude while covering the short distance to reach her. I’m suspect even the people at the security gate (who couldn’t help but be aware of the situation because of our numerous inquiries) felt like applauding while watching our reunion.

But the highlight of the event was yet to come.

My daughter drove away some minutes ahead of us. She was to park her car as close as possible to my son’s apartment, lower her hatchback seat, and then hide behind a nearby hedge with her video camera. I telephoned my son and calmly (don’t ask me how I managed that!) asked to speak to my mom. I warned her we were on our way so that she would keep my son indoors.

We arrived and, with excited giggling and anticipation, hurried to set things up outside. Yoshiko was installed, a fur-trimmed, red Santa’s hat on her head, lying on her stomach in my daughter’s car. She was facing the trunk door, which she held down so that I could open it without the key at the appropriate moment. My daughter crouched behind the hedge, camera ready, and my friend and I went to my son’s door.

My son greeted us warmly, expressing his surprise and appreciation for the housework his grandmother had done. My mom was standing behind him, trying to hide her glee, signalling frantically that he still knew nothing. We talked for a moment, then, when my son asked us to come and sit down for a coffee, I embarked on the last part of the planned scene.

“Put your boots on and come out to my truck, B.,” I told him. “You need to help my friend carry in your Christmas gift. It’s too heavy for one person.”

“What? What did you buy now?” my son remonstrated. “I thought you said we’re all getting small gifts this year to save money?”

I made “Well, you know me…you could use a dishwasher…” noises, so he moved to do as I asked, dressing for the Quebec winter, still scolding good-naturedly as we went outside. When the three of us reached my daughter’s car, I stopped. “Hey, look! This one is just like your sister’s!” I said to him.

“Yeh, well she’s not the only one who has a grey Mazda,” he answered, and continued walking with my friend (who didn’t know exactly what to do now so just played along), heading for my truck parked on the other side of the street.

I took a deep breathe to keep my voice steady. “Hey, wait, B.,” I called to him. “There’s something about this car….”

My son stopped and came back towards me. “Look, Mom, “he said, with his ‘it’s-my-mom-and-I-love-her-so-will-be-patient’ tone. “You’re in the city here, not a village. Mazda sold more than one of those cars….”

He broke off, aghast, when I leaned over and lifted the trunk door, not quite sure what I was doing; probably picturing a car alarm sounding off, police involvement, and heaven knows what else. Then, because I still stood there, he leaned over to peer into the trunk, totally not noticing his sister who had snuck out from behind the hedge, video camera whirring.

The world stopped moving for a second. Completely stunned, he stared down at Yoshiko. Chin in hand, Santa’s hat askew on her long, black hair, she smiled up at him, her dark eyes twinkling in the streetlights. “Merry Chlistmas, B.!” she said softly, her Japanese accent replacing the ‘r’ with the ‘l’.

It’s a challenge to put into words what happened next. My son uttered something unprintable, then turned and strode away from the car, holding his head in both hands. “This isn’t true - you’re kidding – it can’t be true - *”$% - is this real?....” was part of his reaction. Yoshiko stayed put, waiting, the smile still in place. She knew her man. Within nano-seconds he was back, hauling her out of the trunk, and hugging her so tightly to him that her feet left the ground. His face was hidden, buried in her hair, and there they stood, clinging together, completely immobile except for the heaving of his shoulders.

The rest of us waited there on that city street watching them, laughing and weeping with joy ourselves, hugging each other in turn. My son finally lifted his head and, still hanging onto her, tears streaming down his face, looked into my eyes. His expression spoke volumes to a mother’s heart, and my mind still pictures bright, shining stars flying up into the sky, each one swollen with love, each one proclaiming “Now it’s Christmas.”

It took a few minutes before we came back to normal. The video turned out shaky –but we don’t need it to remember the intense caring of that night.

My son’s boss had also played his part well. Not only had he kept the secret, he led the co-workers in a standing ovation when the couple arrived together at the office party the next evening.

Yoshiko and my son have since married, and she is a permanent Canadian resident now. They will both be joining the rest of us at my home this Christmas day (Dec. 25th) before flying back to Japan to celebrate with her family.

As I said, on other holidays I am very flexible – but NEVER December 25th. Christmas supper is held at my home and my children certainly know now, from experience, that absence is not an option.

Luv from The Bush in Quebec

MY SON'S CHRISTMAS PRESENT

It was that time again. For other holidays I am very flexible – but NEVER December 25th. Christmas supper was held at my home and my children knew, from experience, that absence was not an option, except, maybe, if that option was death. Don’t even dare plan on doing anything else, anywhere else. Still, I figured that a reminder wouldn’t hurt. It must have been intuition.

“Ah no, Mom,” answered my oldest son. “What Christmas? I’m just staying in the city and renting a movie or something. I don’t even want to think about Christmas. Forget me this year.” Whoa!! This was my son talking – the one who revelled in family get-togethers even more than I did. The tone of voice echoed his words. He was seriously depressed.

“What?!! No, no, no.” I replied. “What in hell is this about? What’s going on?”

He told me what I should have known. Yoshiko would not be here, and they had both so looked forward to spending their first Christmas together. As much as he loved his family, it would not be Christmas without her. He would only dampen the spirit for the rest of us.

Two months before, his Japanese fiancé had been refused entry to Canada when her flight had landed in Montreal. There was no valid reason given by airport customs. More than likely she had been greeted by an official who was having a bad day. The girl was well educated, had a healthy bank account and no police record, and, although not fluent, could speak the two official languages of this country. My son and I had stood in the arrival area waiting for hours, and hours…. and agonizing hours. I watched my son’s face as his worry turned to panic, and realized to what extent he loved this girl. Her arrival was at 18:30, and at 1:30 AM, the surly custom official finally allowed her to call us on my cellular. She was to depart, the same night, on the first flight out of Canada. She had been coming here too often, he told her. Before returning, she needed Canadian authorisation, and this she must apply for from her own country. It meant, at best, a year of paperwork before she could come back.

I hung up the phone with an ache in my heart. My child was hurting. My ache soon became a mother’s anger. This was NOT acceptable! Anger turned into determination. Damn it! This was Canada!! The land lauded as glorious and free! There had to be something that could be done? I mean – Japanese citizens were not typically singled out as terrorists, were they?

A co-worker of mine had experienced immigration problems with his relatives relocating from Ireland, and gave me the name of a good (but expensive!!!) immigration lawyer. I contacted my future daughter-in-law in Japan by e-mail, asking her to be specific about what she had been told, and that she keep our conversations secret. The last thing I wanted was for my son to have his hopes dashed again! Within the next week, the lawyer had advised both myself and Yoshiko what needed to be written, said, mailed, and faxed to further our cause. Together we set it up. My other two children were sworn to secrecy as well. That left my son’s boss.

Yoshiko, that beautiful, eternally optimistic girl had booked her flight for December 18th, and I knew my son’s office party was the night following her arrival. Hearing what I had to say, and being the epitome of an ‘Italian’ romantic, the boss not only told me he would obtain the second party admittance ticket, but also agreed to be silent. He knew, as well as anyone, how sad my son was, what it would do to him to be disappointed a second time. My son had refused to go to the office party until his co-workers, hearing that he had decided not to attend, got together and purchased the ticket for him, practically forcing his hand. His boss kept repeating to me into the phone “This is so cool! This is so nice! It HAS to work!” His voice was full of emotion.

The day arrived. That morning, wanting to cover all the bases, worried about another entry refusal by customs, I placed a call to the lawyer’s cell phone, waking him up in Copenhagen, where it was 4:30 AM (to be fair, I didn’t know he was there – but probably would have called anyway). He was quite gracious, in spite of the hour – assuring me that all should go well, but that he would talk to an agent if need be – he would leave his cell open -to just contact him at any time. I was beginning to think that the man was worth his high retainer fee.

My son is not the best of housekeepers at any time, and his depression had only made matters worse. Not wanting Yoshiko to arrive in such a mess, my friend and my mom (who was still alive at the time) volunteered to help me clean his apartment before going to the airport. I had warned my son that his grandmother be at his place when he arrived from work, the excuse being that she had come into the city with me for a doctor’s appointment, but I had to meet an important client late the same afternoon, so would drop her off at his home instead of having her wait in the car. So far, so good.

My daughter and my friend joined me at the arrival gate. I can’t begin to explain what I felt as we waited there. Not able to sit when I’m agitated, I must have walked a couple of miles in that one circle. When people around us began to look at me apprehensively, my daughter explained to them what was happening. Later, many of them, already having collected their expected party, came over to wish us luck as they went on their way. Two hours had passed since the flight had put down, but there was still no sign of Yoshiko. Despair filled my heart. Not this again! My daughter had gone to see if she could get any information, and I turned quickly to look at her when she called my name. Her eyes were full of tears.

To be continued.....

Luv From the Bush in Quebec

SOMETIME THINGS HAPPEN....

On the way into work yesterday, I decided to call my Cuban friends to see if the ‘Christmas tree decorating’ evening was still happening, and to confirm my attendance. It was a shock to be told that their young nephew, 17 years old, died this week with a brain aneurysm. The boy’s grandmother is still here on vacation. She is very close to all her grandchildren, and it is painful enough to live through something like this. Being so far away, and unable to return in time for the funeral, makes it even harder. The poor lady has not slept much since she got the news. It was all I could do to hold back my tears when I hugged her last night. The child’s father is also here in Canada, living with his second wife in Ontario. I imagine he is not having an easier time of it. Because he is Cuban, he has to go through multiple, time-consuming procedures before returning to that country, so he wasn’t able to make it to the funeral either. It is so sad.

More than once, I have found these friends are extremely resilient. Maybe it comes from their nationality – Cubans learn very young to deal with situations that most Canadians never have to experience. Last night was no exception. Everyone participated in the Christmas preparations; some decorating the tree, others putting together the traditional winter jigsaw puzzle, and still others installing lights and mistletoe on the house ramps and walls. Soft Spanish Yuletide music played in the background, wine and cheese were consumed before sitting down to gorge ourselves with fondue. The Grandmother would be found silent and musing on occasion, but was quickly drawn back into conversation and laughter by one or another of the family members. Life goes on, and is for the living.

I got back to the house early enough to watch the review of the hockey game, then fell into bed around 1 AM. Grump-puppy woke me this morning at 9 AM, warning me that I’d better get up and open the door, or get out the mop, LOL. Hey, I slept 8 full hours, already a bonus! Now there is washing to do, and I have to go into the office for a short while. Tomorrow morning I’ll be in Gatineau, and I need to finish preparing things for the others in the Montreal office. Rey, my Cuban friend, told me last night that I still had not learned his motto “Work to live; don’t live to work.” He’s right. Old habits die hard.

Have a good Sunday, people. Sending on my SMILE, which will soon be decorated with mistletoe too? I love Christmas season – the traditions, the music, and all that love spread around! I’m grinning. Life is good.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

NEW FRIENDS!

I’ve got my truck back! It looks and runs like it was brand new – they shampooed inside it too – a bonus! I’ve been driving a truck for so long now that I really didn’t feel secure in the little Honda Accord. The garage is one of our clients, so the repair costs were more than reasonable, and the loan of the Accord was thrown in free. This lady has no complaints!

I have already told you in here about my joining an internet site for writers. It has been a year now, and many of the writers in there have become friends. We comment on each others work, offering encouragement, constructive criticism, and congratulations when due. I was more than delighted when a couple of these writers contacted me, saying they were coming to Montreal, and asked me to join them for supper. I accepted, of course, and last night after work I met them at Moe’s restaurant on the West Island. The lady is from Australia, while her husband is a native of Montreal. They are both published writers, and extremely interesting people. We sat, chatting and laughing for hours, and could have gone on for many more. Because we already knew each other through our many stories read on the site, we just naturally slipped into an easy familiarity. It was as if we had been friends for years. I wonder if Kilroy’s ears were burning, because he came up in our conversation, as did my children, grandchildren and Dawna & Malcolm’s travel experiences in Mexico. Beware of what you say when you talk to an aspiring writer – your words are sure to be repeated, LOL!

Because I had to pick up my truck before the garage closed at 3 PM, I had left the office early. The location was in the same area as the restaurant, so instead of returning downtown, I used the free time to visit ‘Chapters’. I love that store! For over two hours I wandered around, surrounded by stacks and stacks of books, browsing here and there….and ended up spending too much money. But hey! I actually did some Xmas shopping before December 24th, which, unfortunately, is my usual day for that hectic venture.

Today I need to drive into the office and catch up on some work. I was to join my Cuban friends this evening – the traditional Xmas tree decorating – and my daughter is having a small party at her house. If I’m not too tired, I’ll attempt to visit both places. At the moment there is a lot of noise happening here at home. The guys are installing a snow fence on the roof. I don’t want my gallery ramp knocked over again. The sunshine out there this morning is just a ruse – the snow WILL come!

Off I go! Sending you all a big SMILE – hoping you are out there enjoying your Saturday!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

BACK AGAIN...

I couldn’t believe it when I looked at the date on my last blog. October 27th!! My, my – that culprit, Time, is not only flying by – it has gained speed!!

And we are nearly there – our first goal! Within our 4 companies, there are close to 100 people with jobs now, working regularly between 25 and 40 hours per week. If this keeps up, we will have reached our goal before Christmas. Ain’t that just so cool? It’s worth every extra hour the owners have to put in to keep things going up and up….

In between the extra time in the city, and the running back and forth to our office in Gatineau, I was flat on my back for 5 days, 2 of which were the weekend, of course. H1N1? I hope so, cause that will mean I’m immune now, won’t it? I huddled up in my blankets, head-sick, stomach-sick, chest-sick, and heart-sick…hiding away from the world in my little alcove upstairs, only getting up to feed the doggies and rock in my mom’s old wooden rocker, whining to myself. It’s no secret that I’m a big Baby (yep, that’s a capital ‘B’) when I’m sick. Fortunately it doesn’t happen often.

There’s a lot to tell, but no time this morning to do so. I slept in, and have to get my car to the garage to get it winterized and to fix the little gift left by the hit-and-run driver. I’ll be back tonight. In the meantime, have a great day, everyone! Sending you all a big, warm, fuzzy smile. Please pass it on!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

LOVE IN CYBER-SPACE : Part Two

“You heard what happened to the lady in Quebec, didn’t you?” I turned to look at my co-worker. It was lunch break, and I had mentioned my daughter’s plans to meet her internet contact at the airport that weekend. I should have known better, but I asked anyway.

“No, I didn’t hear. What are you talking about?” Mistake.

A disturbing story. The lady had been chatting with a man over the Net for a couple of months, and had finally agreed to meet him alone at a restaurant in Quebec City. She did take certain precautions: the meeting was to be in a public place, there would be a coded telephone call from her best friend, she had pepper spray in her purse. The call to her best friend happened, and all seemed well at the time. They found her car in the parking lot two days later, her purse and cell phone intact, but she has disappeared. According to my co-worker, she has not been seen since.

As is usual with this kind of thing, others in the lunchroom suddenly remembered having heard of similar experiences. Whether they were fact or fiction is anyone’s guess, but each telling only augmented my insecurity about the whole affair. I needed to talk to my daughter!

When I stopped in at her house that evening, she was sitting at the kitchen table, having coffee with a friend. I would have waited until we were alone, but the subject came up, I interrupted her friend’s warnings by blurting out what I had to say.

“I’m going with you to the airport.” Both girls looked at me in surprise, but my daughter said nothing. She wouldn’t, of course, which is why I had wanted to tell her in person instead of over the phone. I needed to read her expression. Unlike my two sons, who are very vocal about their wishes, Shan tends to keep her thoughts to herself. Arguing aloud has never been her forte, even as a child. She does, however, get this set look on her face which we’ve learned means she’ll just go ahead and do exactly as she pleases anyway, whether you like it or not. The look was there now, but I could tell she was considering my words.

Maybe it was the excitement of this first venture, or maybe her friends talked her into it, but she did pick me up on the way to the airport when the day arrived. We were there far too early, of course, and our long wait afforded numerous nervous trips to the bathroom by my daughter. Her anxiety that the potential suitor not find her to his taste was soothed by a total stranger walking over to us, excusing himself, then proceeding to tell her that he and his group of fellow crew workers, who were sitting near us in the arrival section, decided that she was stunning; that she had the most beautiful eyes they’d ever seen! Wow! What more could one ask as a morale booster?

Needless to say, the dude showed up, was okay with ‘mama’ being there, and my concerns were laid to rest by the time they dropped me off after the long drive home. I still called her later that evening – just to make sure. They had a nice weekend together, he has flown back to his own place now, and it looks like that is the end of it. Some things just don’t work out.
In the meantime, this mother returned the pepper spray to its storage place. I know exactly where to find it if cyber-romance rears its head again.

LOVE IN CYBER-SPACE

When my daughter told us she had met a ‘cute guy’ on the internet, I was probably less sceptic than many. I have at least three very close friends who met their significant others the same way, not counting my cuz Wicked Wendy, who may never have found her Rob without the ‘net’, and he’s the perfect person for her. Sure, we hear horror stories, and one needs to be careful and do some research. I was still inclined to believe that cyber-initiated relationships have just as good, if not better, chance at lasting than those formed with the usual methods of wining and dining. Through written correspondence, you tend to glean a pretty accurate idea of character, unless the person is a downright schmoozer. Then, as in anything else, it is good to fall back on the old adage: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

As Shan’s interest grew, she wisely asked her ‘cute guy’ if she could be his friend on Facebook. Good move. Trying to hide your real identity in the Facebook community is near to impossible. That thing is like a small town! Someone is sure to know you, be related to you, love you, hate you, post some embarrassing humour about you, or put up the worst picture they can find of you…just for a tease. Everything K (the ‘cute guy’) had told her seemed authentic. He has been single for awhile, shared child custody, had a job, and enjoyed fun times with good friends. The picture he had put up on the contact site matched those shown on Facebook. On to Step 3 – the exchange of phone numbers.

A date and time was set for the call. My daughter giggled more than once over the dire predictions, complete with hilarious imitations, from her own group of cronies – no matter how masculine he looks, a high, squeaky voice would be a definite turn off, she was told. We all held our breath until the day arrived, and each of us waited impatiently until the call was over and she reported that he had sounded great, so there! LOL.

Step 4 – Because he lives a good distance from here, the actual physical meeting was set for two months later, and the countdown began. My daughter hangs out with a huge circle of close friends, many of whom she has known since kindergarten. Each morning she would post on Facebook the number of days remaining until the big event. We all got into the spirit of the thing, counting down with her. The infatuated couple chatted either by phone or Messenger at least once a day, and the plans were that he fly into the city, Shan would pick him up at the airport, and he would spend 2 days at her house. As the day loomed closer however, I began to feel a bit uneasy about it all. Mom was getting cold feet.

(Sorry folks – I’ll have to continue this later. I need to beat rush hour. Sending you a SMILE – hope it makes your day brighter!)

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

WHAT COMES IN THREE'S?

I’m forever telling the employees to be VERY careful when drinking coffee or other liquids at their desks...keep it away from the computers. Well, guess what I did last night? Yep. Put a cup full of nice, hot coffee in the wrong place, knocked it over and, although my keyboard was safe on its slide out drawer under the desk, the liquid doused the bottom part of my screen…. where all the little adjustment buttons are placed. I don’t just knock things over – they seem to jump up and away!! The result is that I have a large, red, immovable “brightness” rectangle right in the centre of my screen, blocking anything behind it, and no amount of button pushing or clicking will make it disappear. GRRRR! Does this mean a repair bill, or a new screen? Whichever, I guess it will be added to the costs of fixing the truck and the broken window….an expensive week to say the least.

I’m not sure what is going on lately – the stars are badly aligned? It just seems that work is more and more hectic. I got home very late every night last week, and was still having a hard time keeping up. I can’t believe that it’s all due to me slowing down. It’s more a combination of things, I guess. I stopped the anti-inflammation medication completely after being awakened by choking. It scared me mightily, I tell you. Usually one comes out of sleep with the sensation of nausea. Not this time. I was already up-chucking while still sleeping, and woke wondering what in hell was happening to me! Anyway, a nurse told me that this medication is dangerous for stomach hemorrhage, so there’s the end of it. I’m still doing the vitamins though, all natural products, and am pretty sure they play a huge part in me making it through the days right now.

5 hours later…………
Yep – it was a new screen. While writing the above, it turned completely black. I was writing in the dark. Off to the store I went, and the result is a larger screen – not a bad thing. I’ll hand the damaged one over to my puter-doc. If he can fix it, we can use it at the office.

I needed to stop in and see Suzie’s sister on the way back home, quickly shopped for a few groceries, then picked up my niece and her daughter; they were coming out to have supper with me. Heinz was working on the backhoe all day, and had arrived before us, so put on fires and cooked the roast afterwards – a nice treat. He is an excellent cook, and we enjoyed good conversation and a tasty meal. A fitting way to end a Sunday, don’t you think? I drove the visitors back home, Heinz went down to his own place, and now I’m relaxing with the doggies while the water runs into the jacuzzi, filling the house with the scent of Tamanu. Already it is 10:30 PM – another day just went racing by.

It has been an action filled week, and I have lots to tell you, but will break it into small stories and post it here during the next few days. Now is the time to hit the sack if I want to function tomorrow.

Sweet dreams, y’all!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

BELATED THANKSGIVING

My son, Jo, was away hunting last weekend, so we celebrated Thanksgiving yesterday. We gathered in my daughter’s new home around turkey and stuffing and all the traditional trimmings for the season, and the usual teasing and laughter made the day. My oldest, Bow, picked up Uncle Bird, who managed to eat and banter with the rest of us. Jo and May’s little lads, the youngest of the group, endured multiple kisses and hugs until they finally left around 6 P.M. Those kinds of days are precious. We all take time out of our busy lives to remind each other of what is important - a strong, healthy and happy family unit.

Yoshiko mentioned that her ‘old’ bachelor brother is getting married in January, so she & Bow are planning to attend, of course. I’m thinking maybe I’ll go too, if there is any way I can swing it. The wedding is taking place in Taiwan. The problem is that we’ll be in full tax season, a busy, busy time for the office, and I’m not sure that both of us can be absent at the same time. This is going to take some strategic planning!

On Saturday, after shopping for the turkey, I joined Rey & Susie and their boys in their home in Ste-Sophie. We went for supper in a restaurant in Pointe-Claire (where we waited over an hour for a table in spite of reservations!!), then on to the airport to greet Rey’s mom who was arriving from Cuba at midnight. The last time I saw her was in 2001, and she hasn’t changed one iota!! What a beautiful lady she is! She’ll be in Canada until mi-January. We all piled into Rey’s 7-passenger vehicle, and arrived at Ste-Sophie around 2:30 A.M. It was dark when I picked up my truck to drive home, and the damage to the front end was only noticed the next day. OUCH! Someone obviously backed into it (Rey’s driveway shares a small bar parking lot), and there is a huge hole in the front fender. Fortunately, I have a Honda garage as a client, but it still is going to cost a couple of thousand to get that repaired. To add insult to injury, Heinz was staining my large French thermal windows, and a gust of wind sent one of them crashing onto the gallery. It shattered – and, due to the weather, will need to be repaired immediately; at least a $250 job. Damn! Any more weekends like this one and I’ll have to get a second job, LOL!

Shyanne, my little grandniece, turned 11 yesterday. I was unable to see her then, but will stop by Julie’s tonight. The poor little thing is living through her parent’s difficult separation at the moment, which is never easy for a child.

It’s now time to do the rush-hour run to the office. We have a big week ahead, and my energy level is not at its highest right now. I’m back on the medication for my sore legs, and it gives me constant nausea. Ugh! My doc should be arriving the second week of November. Hopefully we’ll be able to figure out what is wrong. I’m really not good with pain.

Have a great sunshiny day, folks! It’s frisky out there, but refreshing if you dress warm. Sending you all a SMILE!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

ALL ABOUT NOTHING

This whole month feels like tax-time. I seem to be running when I hit the floor in the morning, my brain still pedaling when I finally get to bed at night. It’s a never ending game of ‘catching-up’. Granted, winter is busier on the home front. There’s wood to bring in, ashes to take out, more cleaning with the doggies tracking in muck, etc., etc. One also has to consider the hours lost by sitting in traffic on the journey back & forth to the office. Then again, there are the three new companies, which means more employees, which, in turn, brings more action. Mind you, I’m not complaining. We see enough people each day desperate for a job, and I realize how lucky I am to be working. Probably much of it has to do with age. I used to be able to handle full days, then go out and dance my tail off in the evening. Not anymore. My idea of a good time now is sitting by the fire, glass of wine in hand, doggies at my feet – or stretching out in the Jacuzzi. .LOL! My mom would never have believed it!

The Dunany Demons sprinkled a few snowflakes last night on the drive home. It reminded me that it is time for snow-tires. I usually have them installed by October 15th each year. No-one living in my area would try getting through the winter with four-season tires, and that BEFORE the new law made the change an obligation! I hear my friend, Kilroy, is still roaming around on his bicycle. How do you winterize that mode of transportation? LOL.

My son, Jo, is back from hunting empty-handed. His lady, May, is at home on maternity leave now. Bow will be leaving for Florida in a couple of weeks for a golf holiday. Yoshiko is saving her vacation time for her next visit to Japan, so won’t be going with him. And my daughter, Shan, will be heading down to Mexico with some friends in early December. She turns 40 this year, and both her and her best friend, who is the same age, are planning to celebrate their big 4-0’s in the sun together.

I’m going to post this just to let you know we’re still all alive. Other than that, I would scrap it, because reading it over, I find it extremely boring! I had nothing to say, and said that quite well, didn’t I? LOL.

On the road again…off to the city. Take care, everyone – practice your SMILES, and enjoy the frisky weather!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

A WEEK LATER....

My nice computer doc finally showed up yesterday morning (early!), waded through the mud outside, then spent 2 hours working on my machine and voilà! I nearly kissed him as I paid him – I was that happy. The borrowed laptop I’ve been using to feed my cyber-addiction is one we purchased for training. Unless it is hooked up to the central server at the office, it is extremely limited in what it can do. The keyboard is much smaller too; my fingers seemed way too large, and there was constant backspacing to delete surplus letters which just appeared out of nowhere. This morning I breathe a sigh of relief…I’m back in my element.

It was a crazy, hectic week. I would crawl into bed late at night, numbers running through my head, then be up at 4:30 AM and they were still there. One thing I did do last Saturday (it has been that long since I last blogged in here!!) was put everything on hold, and read my book, Roots. Thanks to all those whose advice leaned that way, lol. Actually, the book being thick, I spent a lot of Sunday doing the same thing. Then, of course, I paid for it by playing catch-up in the days that followed.

Two of the stagiares said their goodbyes on Friday. They are heading back to their studies after practicing in the real world. One of them, a nice little lady from Peru, gave me a pretty souvenir ashtray, made in her country, as a farewell gift. The other, a tall, graceful lady from Haiti, offered something completely different.

During a lunchroom conversation, a discussion about the trials of life had prompted me to mention an admired Blogit writer, Muley, who wrote that our enemies could actually be close friends from our previous lives, sent here to help us learn a needed lesson. There were mixed reactions; sceptic from a couple, thoughtful from others, and agreement from my Japanese daughter-in-law. I noticed the tightening of lips and slight shake of head from the Haitian stagiare, she who always bowed her head and said silent grace before eating. She was too shy to argue in words, but her expression left no doubt about her refuting such beliefs. I suspected that she was very adamant in her religion, whatever it was, and she proved it by handing me two printed tracts as she was saying goodbye. The cover page on one shows a clear picture of hell, complete with fire and brimstone; the other has lights streaming down from what is obviously heaven. I thanked her politely, assured her that, yes, I do read the bible, and wondered if I should try to convince her that spiritualism does NOT mean denial of God’s existence. I imagine I’d have wasted my breath. Her stance was telling me that only her religion saved souls. She meant well, so I accepted her gesture. To each our own. I couldn’t help laughing though when, at the end of the day, Yoshiko (my daughter-in-law) stood by my desk, glanced down at the pictures, then politely asked me, “So which one are you, Mom? The devil or the angel?” Then with a small smile, “I guess it depends on the day, huh?” I just love that girl!!

It’s Saturday, the sun is shining out there on my mountain, and I’m off to enjoy it while it lasts. My Dunany Demons whispered that there’ll be snow next Friday…already. Time flies whether we’re having fun or not, so sending you a big, warm smile and sincere wishes that y’all have a super day!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

SATURDAY - OFF OR NOT?

Ahh...I’m a new woman! I do like my own hairdresser, but she is so far away from the city it was a hassle to keep my appointments. Line, my co-worker, had used the one downstairs from our office and, although the lady’s social graces leave a little to be desired, her work is fine. I decided to try her out, and yesterday slipped away for an hour to let her do her stuff. I have hardly any fashion sense at all, therefore usually depend on the eye and knowledgeof those with experience in the field. Hair should be darker for the autumn, she told me. So now I’m back to being a brunette (my original colour) instead of a redhead, and the hair is slightly shorter. I have had no comments other than “you’ve changed your hair?” from Yoshiko, but I think I like it. It always takes me a couple of days to absorb the change.

My puter doc will be repairing my own machine next week. This laptop is limited in its functions, and takes too much space on my home office desk. I’m looking forward to getting my own computer up and running again (damned Explorer 8!!!). There are stories and articles saved in there - my plans to stay home and make money with my writing – which I am unable to access and which still need alot of work before any attempt at publishing. Things are put on hold again. Ah well, everything happens for a reason. It must not be the right time for revision, or I will be needed for an extra year or two in the business, or I am going to win the loto and buy a small helicopter to overcome the drudgery of traffic...... Ya see? An imagination like mine should be used to good advantage, LOL!

I was planning on going into the office today to catch up on some work, but I can’t seem to get my mind in the proper set for it. It’s dreary, foggy weather out there...perfect for curling up with a good book (I’m reading “Roots” again) and doing the escape thing. Will I go? I know that once I start the work, I’ll get into it and time will fly past. I’ll end up feeling as if I’ve accomplished something, instead of the guilt for having spent all that time only reading. Maybe I’ll find a coin and flip “heads or tails”. Let Lady Luck make the decision. If I win, and get to stay home, I’ll flip again to determine if I do some badly needed housework, or let everything slide and dive into the book. An interesting way to cop out, don’t ya think? To be continued...

However you people are spending your day, I hope you’re enjoying it. If it helps any, I send you all a big SMILE. It’s difficult to stay bored or angry when we’re smiling, so let yours shine!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

SHORT & SLEEPY....

I arrived home too late,then was too tired, to watch the season’s first Canadian-Leaf hockey game last night. It had been a long day – I was in the office from 6 AM, and by 21:30, I was practically sleep-walking. I wonder when I’ll learn that I just can’t handle those long hours anymore? Anyway, “vive le net” – because I checked out the write-up on the computer this morning and was happy to learn that the Habs won in overtime. I imagine that my son,Bow, is smiling ear to ear. I wonder if he called his Uncle Bird, who is a big Leaf fan? Each winter they banter back and forth and, with both of them being quick on the tongue, some of their remarks are hilarious!

Even at the late hour, the traffic on the 15 was still heavy last night. The good thing is that it kept me awake – you have to really pay attention. You can be rolling along, jiving to your music, then,bang! Brake lights in front! ARRG! Most of the time I am very patient, but it now seems the drive back and forth to the city is more difficult. It should only take an hour, but more often than not it lasts from 1 ½ to 2 ½ every day.... each way. To avoid it you leave the house before 5:30 AM, and sometimes that isn’t even early enough; the end of evening rush hour is anybody’s guess. It’s never the same time from day to day. Still, not much use beefing about something you can do nothing about, right?

The fires were lit in both the boxstove and the fireplace when I arrived home, so I was able to relax with a glass of wine, the doggies curled up on their over-stuffed cushions at my feet, the only sound the crackling of the wood...and Bud’s snores, LOL. Heinz came upstairs for a few minutes to see if the fires were going okay, then went back down to watch his TV. He’ll be doing his whole course nearby instead of Quebec City as planned, so will be around to help with the wood, the snow, etc.. That’s not a bad thing, especially when you drag your tired butt home and the house is warm already. It was much appreciated.

I’m still in slow mode this morning, and now need to prepare for another jaunt on the highway, so will wish you all a good day. There’s a big, sleepy SMILE going out with those wishes...hope you pass it on!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

PLAYING IN TUNE

“It was one of those days – one of those crazy, crazy days.” Remember that tune? It was playing in the back of my mind all day yesterday; with good reason.

My first call came early in the morning. My youngest son, Jo, wanted to tell me there was a new baby on the way. Yippee!! That was the good news.

After 2 hours of frustrating traffic, I walked late into an office where 4 stagiares were sitting waiting for me to give them work. My fault. I hadn’t amply prepared before leaving on Friday, nor did I follow-up during the weekend. I already had a full agenda for the morning, so it was rock and roll trying to get everything in order. Throughout this havoc, our one toilette blocked and “runneth over”. The janitor pulled a no-show, and by the end of the day those of us who had not gone knocking on our neighbour’s door to borrow their service were doing the “gotta-go” dance.

I had an appointment at the vet for Bud, my oldest pit. He had a big swelling on his bum and on his paw – it looked like abscess – and I could tell it was hurting him. With all the stern at the office, I left late, endured another long trip in traffic, and rushed as best I could to get home, pick up the dog, and get to the vet’s in time. That, of course, wasn’t going to happen. I finally got a very mucky dog (it has been raining here for the past few days, and Bud loves mud!!) into my clean truck, and was nearly at the destination when my cellular rang. It was Fran telling me that my brother, Bird, was running a high fever, and she was worried. She had called the hospital and they told her to bring him in, but he was refusing to go.

It was a torturous hour before we got away from the vet’s, an episode in itself about which I will tell you more later. Suffice it to say that Bud does NOT like the vet, and the vet no longer likes me, there was pain involved, and Bud astounded everyone with his strength! Let your imaginations work on that one, lol!

I raced back home, released the dog from of my previously clean truck, and then stopped at the pharmacy before running to my brother’s apartment. By this time his temperature was close to 103 – not good!! He was still refusing to go to the hospital, and I don’t really blame him. With our Quebec nurses drastically overworked, none of his experiences in there have been good ones. Fran and I dosed him with fever reducer, covered him with ice packs and cold cloths, then we waited. Slowly, the fever abated. I was to meet a new employee to go over her contract that evening, but called her to postpone to the next day – I didn’t want to leave until I was sure Bird would be okay on his own. That actually happened earlier than expected, and I finally crawled into bed, the telephone beside me just in case, thankful that the panic was over. But it wasn’t.

My 18 year old grandson, driving to work in the wee hours of the next morning, had a tire fall off his newly purchased car, fought for control, and ended up smashing into a guard rail, totally scrapping his automobile. The miracle is that neither he nor his passenger was hurt; they came within an inch of going over the rail and rolling down the side of the mountain. Being young, he was more upset about now having to make payments on a vehicle he can no longer use, but, of course, his mom and the rest of us see it in another light. To hell with the car! To add insult to injury, that same afternoon he discovered that his bank debit card had been cloned, and the thieves had emptied $300.00 from his bank account. And I thought I was having a bad day!!

The update in this soap opera of our lives is that I really am going to be a grandmother for the sixth time; Bird is feeling much better (must have been the 24 hour flu); my grandson was reimbursed the $300.00 by the bank, and is shopping for a new car and will never, never again buy one without it being thoroughly inspected; the janitor left a message saying he repaired the toilet last night; and Bud is easily taking his medication, albeit wrapped up in cheese. The crazy, crazy day is back to normal...for the moment.

Sending you all a big warm SMILE, and wishing you an exciting (but not crazy) Wednesday!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

GRANNY GA-GA? NOT ME!

I loved it! Babysitting the grandchildren is not a regular occurrence for me, so last night was a bit of a novelty. After an evening of dancing and laughter and cuddling, the kiddies were tucked safely into bed. Their parents, who arrived back earlier than expected, sat and chatted with me for an hour or so. We were discussing the different characters of the children, and the way they each reacted and behaved. My son, who is MY baby, paid me a high compliment.

“Everyone tells me I’m just like my Dad,” he said. “That may be, but when it comes to raising my kids, I think I’m alot like you.”

My daughter has remarked the same thing, albeit in different words. Why do I consider it a compliment? Because, like my children, each of my five grandchildren is exceptional. Yeh, I know. All grandparents swear the same. But I’m not talking about beauty or talent here, although they have that too. It’s about their outlook, their understanding, and how they are learning to live true in a world composed of many “me-myself-and-I” attitudes. They are being taught, and absorbing the lesson well, that, although the possibilities are limitless, there are limits as to how these possibilities can be attained. Does that statement make sense?

An example: N, the oldest who will be 5 in December, is an avid Spiderman fan, and a whiz at children’s video games. When he started practicing the kung-fu moves on his friends at daycare, his dad warned him that these were fantasy games, and not a thing to do in real life. N did not heed the warning however, so Spiderman and the video games were put out of his reach. He was told that they would be kept away until he could understand the difference. His attempts to convince daddy that the lesson was now learned were unsuccessful. There is an imposed timeout for reflection. A subtle lesson; he is learning that his extraordinary ability in playing the games is praiseworthy, but there are limits on how and where he uses his ability. Ignoring the limits causes unhappy consequences.

B, who turned 2 in June, is a type ‘A’ personality. A going concern, he pushes the envelope to the end whenever he can. He has also noted that a cute pout, created by lowering his head then peering up at you with his big, blue eyes, can occasionally get him off the hook. Woefully for him, those occasions are rapidly getting rarer as he gets older. Consequences WILL be paid if his actions threaten to hurt or disrespect something or someone, (himself included). So - he can drum on the pots and pans, and M’mere will keep him company by dancing to the erratic beat. Throwing them against the wall or down the stairs will cause damage, and is not allowed, no matter how amusing it seems to be. The pouting charm didn’t work (I turned my back so he couldn’t see my grin), nor did his refusal to put the objects away. He wasn’t allowed to move from the designated space until he helped right his mess. M’mere wasn’t screaming or yelling, just calmly determined...and she was bigger than him, LOL! It was done, there were no hard feelings, and praise and kissing and cuddling were the reward for the job completed; another subtle lesson on the existence of limits and the result when you don’t respect them.

Do I sound like a harridan? Believe me, I’m not. I believe that we should give our children as much as we can, and that they should be encouraged to ‘paint outside the lines’ if that is their wish. ...to a certain point. They are, after all, children, and we, as adults, have the responsibility to impose limits; limits to be stretched as they get mature enough to intelligently handle what comes next. After all, our kids are eventually going to be in charge of the world. I’m just trying to insure that my old age will be treated with intelligence, respect and compassion. Oh, and I wouldn’t say no to lodging in a luxurious nursing home.....

Sending you all a huge SMILE – I’ve been wearing mine since spending time with those adorable little scamps, so it’s time to share it. Hope you’ll share yours too!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

SATURDAY SCHEDULE

This afternoon I am going to babysit my two little dudes, Nalou and Bali. Because of my work schedule, I don’t get to do this often, so I am really looking forward to it. I imagine I will have alot to write in my Blog tomorrow!


I don’t know where you are sitting with your morning coffee, or what you can see. I was up at 5 AM, and am lucky enough to have a view of my mountain as it welcomes the sun; a riot of autumn reds and oranges and golds, running in and around the darker, constant hues of the evergreens, all a silhouette against the clearest blue sky...it's simply breathtaking! Would that I be a painter, or a photo genius, so that I could capture it forever...but I’m not, so I try to keep the picture in my memory. Fortunately I get to see it from day to day, renewing it each morning. It’s another of my blessings for which I am extremely thankful.

Maybe I’m doing the sympathy thing for my friend, Kilroy, who wrote in his blog that he has a sore back, because both my legs are painful today. Because there has been no extreme exercise to merit these aches, I’m beginning to get worried. It’s not normal, and I haven’t yet managed to get the results from the x-rays or visit to my doc & his grumpy receptionists. If I don’t get a return call next week, I’ll have to take the time and drive over to his office. In the meantime, I’m swallowing anti-inflammatory pills (and whining), something I hate doing (the pill taking I mean – I’m okay with the whining, lol).


I have a few errands to run before going to see my grandsons, so will sign off now. Maybe I’ll come back in and post the sure-to-be delightful anecdotes after I’ve put my little rug rats to bed tonight.

Sending you all a big SMILE, and hoping you are out there enjoying this great fall weather.


Luv from the Bush in Quebec

CYBER JUNKIE

I am the only person to use my computer at home, so whenever anything appears on my screen that was not put there by ME, it freaks me out. Who has been in my house touching my stuff??? I tend to forget that it is always connected to the Internet, and now and then those cyber-authorities out there shove something in my face when I log on. The other night was one of those times. I sat down at my desk to find that my beautiful,winter scene had been replaced by BING_BING_BING written in bright orange letters all over my screen. GRRRR! I vainly attempted to restore the original background. My lack of talent for resolving anything technical is no secret – nothing I did worked, of course. This “update” thingie kept flashing, so I clicked and accepted and clicked and accepted.....and succeeded in putting my computer out of commission...totally. All I had to do was touch any key and it froze up tight.

It was too late in the evening to call my puter-doc, and my frustration attained a level where the machine was in very real danger of being thrown through the window, so I headed for the jacuzzi instead.

My regular ‘wake-up’ procedure of grabbing a coffee, saying good morning to the doggies and my mountain, reading Kilroy’s Blog, checking Facebook for activity from my offspring, looking at posts in Blogit.....it was not going to happen. Being a creature of habit, my inability to complete my morning routine threw me into confusion. I’m not sure how early it was when I picked up the phone and speed-dialed my puter-doc, but I could tell from his voice that he hadn’t been awake. He knows me well. He calmed mentioned some of the many things I had probably done wrong, told me he would be out of town until next Tuesday, and suggested that I use one of the laptops from the office to calm my addiction. Now why hadn’t I thought of that?
The answer to that question is easy. It was pure panic. I couldn’t fathom spending down time without access to the net. Great Scott!! I have become a cyber-junkie!!!

Obviously I followed his advice. I brought home one of the laptops last night, managed to hook it up so that it works, and this morning was able to read Kilroy’s Blog, check out my young ‘uns on Facebook, and and am writing this post. I’m reconnected to the world again, my face is all SMILES and life is good.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec

THE VITAMINS

It was a quiet weekend. On Saturday morning I started taking the vitamins that are so touted – I’m expecting to feel like a million bucks by the end of the month. It seems that the first few days of this therapy involves a lot of toilet time. Cleansing, they call it. Whatever it is, it’s working. I’ve also been warned that I will feel sleepy until my system gets used to absorbing all these natural boosters. That’s working too. I did a lot of snoozing over the past couple of days. For insomniacs such as me, it was like winning a jackpot! It was nice, deep sleeps, only waking to continue the other part – the cleansing, LOL!

I wanted to see my grandson, Raphael, to give him his birthday present, so I ran into town for a few minutes yesterday. I had some grocery shopping to do too. Not much, which was fortunate, because the cleansing was still going on. I was third waiting in line for my things to be rung up, and was very relieved to see another girl open her cash and beckon me over. I was still doing the ‘gotta-go’ dance while she checked out my few articles. I think she noticed, and was sympathetic, because she was quick about it. When it was done, I raced over to Bird’s, and I must have visited his bathroom at least twice during our short visit. When I made it back to the house I had another short snooze, did some cooking, and then worked for an hour or so before a short stint in the Jacuzzi, and bed again. I woke this morning at 3:30 AM, bright eyed and bushy tailed! Will it carry me through the day? We shall see; I have a meeting tonight at 6 P.M., so will be home late. Those vitamins have their work cut out for them.

The box of licorice cigars that both Bird and I were anxiously anticipating were hard as rock, and had a whitish film on them. My daughter had bought them in a Sweet Shop in Montreal, paid enough for them too, so I sent a complaint by e-mail to Hershey (the manufacturer). I’m wondering how long it will take them to respond, if they even do so. To be continued….

That’s it for now, folks. I have a few things to finish up before braving the traffic to the office, so send you all a big, warm smile and wish you all a good day!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

MY TREES AND ME

The clock on my night table told me it was 4:30 A.M.. I lay in bed for a moment, gazing out through the wide, glass French doors, letting my mind slowly come back to earth. My bedroom is situated high up on the east side of the house, affording a splendid view of four tall, beautiful trees; their bushy tops stretching up into the sky. It’s the last thing I see at night, and the first thing in the morning. Even if it is dark outside, the garage spotlight, strategically placed, allows the luxury of this awesome sight. It is one part of why I end and begin each day with a heartfelt ‘Thank You!”.

I could see the tree tops swaying wildly, much as they do when a storm rolls in. I frowned. Hadn’t the Weather Network predicted two nice, sunny days for the weekend? What was this? I had no sooner finished the thought when the movement stopped. Everything became still. I waited, watching….Minutes passed, but the stillness remained. Wondering, I got out of bed and padded over to the doors to get a better look. The sky was dark but clear, the stars quite visible. No clouds, no sign of wind. Puzzled, I stood there, staring out at the trees. Had I imagined it? No, I didn’t think so. It was too real.

Have you ever experienced moments when a sight, or a sound, triggers a memory so profound that all you can do is accept it? All of a sudden I saw myself as a child, standing at my bedroom window, much the same as I was doing now.

The child-me, with her vivid imagination, had named every tree surrounding the old farmhouse where we lived. They were my friends, and I endowed each of them with character traits; most of the cedars lining the driveway were motherly and kind, except for one whose branches resembled a grouchy old man…and that he was! The birches with slim white trunks and lighter green leaves were all flirty dancers – the first to bend and sway when Mr. Wind showed up. The Maples were somewhat clannish, but most friendly to the birds, and the majestic Firs were mysterious and wise; their sound in the wind telling stories as old as time itself. I never went to bed without going to the window and saying goodnight to my friends, calling them each by name, wishing them a calm night, or warning them to stand strong when we could feel an approaching storm. Each morning I would speak to them again, and I could sense their chorus of “Good morning!” in response. Except for the grouchy old man, but I knew he loved me in his own way, so I would smile at him none the less.

My vision this morning lasted all of ten seconds, but it was enough. Now there was no need to speculate on what had made my trees move, because the reason was clear. They were wishing me “Good Morning!”. Appreciating the greeting, and the flashback that helped me understand, I smiled and bowed to them in turn. It WAS going to be a gorgeous sunny day, and I know we will all enjoy it. Life is good.

I’m off to the office for a couple of hours, so sending you all a big smile and wishes for a great day!


Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

PENNY CANDY AND LIQUORICE CIGARS

My daughter called me today to tell me that, while in the city yesterday, she bought me some liquorice cigars – a WHOLE box of them!!! My mouth started watering immediately! They are hard to find now, the real ones, I mean. I’ve tasted some imitations in the past years, but the texture is not quite the same, nor is the strong pernod taste that my brother and I so loved (we both still do!) as when we were young’uns.

The general store was at least a 7 mile walk from the foster home where we did most of our growing up. On the rare occasion, during the summer months, our foster mom, or Grandma, would allow us to walk the long dirt road. Each of us jingling two dimes and a nickel in our pockets, we’d run one telephone pole, and then walk two, in an effort to reach our destination faster, chattering with excitement, shouting out what was on our potential goodie list. We’d calculate over and over just exactly how much we could get for the enormous sum of twenty-five cents, and change our minds many times over before the store came into view. Then there it was – that special, wonderful place!!

When we pushed on the wide, metal ‘Fanta’ bar, the bell above the door would jingle loudly, beckoning the owner from somewhere inside his house. He would smile down at us, his eyes jolly behind eternally smudged glasses. It had been a sweaty trip, so of course we would ask for our 10 cent bottles of pop first. He would deftly whip them out from the cooler, dripping with water, and use an old piece of towel to wipe them off before prying the tops with the opener inserted in the cooler’s side. The paper straws were inserted, and we’d suck on them slowly as we pondered the splendid candy assortment under the glass counter. Let’s see…chocolate covered gooey honeymoons; sugar-coated colourful gumdrops; humbugs and assorted hard candies; jawbreakers and Popeye’s candy cigarettes; jellybeans and gum, and little chocolate bars, those favoured liquorice cigars with the red sprinkles imitating fire on the ends…..

There were so many enticing sweets that all our careful planning flew right out of our heads! We’d usually decide to pool our money, and then share. We’d get lots more that way! The 30 cents we had left bought a 5 cent bag of chips (we would carefully count them out later), two of each different kind of candy (mostly 2 for a penny), a 7 cent bunch of lollipops (5 big round ones in the pack – pay dirt!!!), and, last but definitely not least, 2 liquorice cigars. We always wondered if the owner had ever been to school, because he sure couldn’t count. When he had done splitting the balance of 30 cents worth of candies into two small paper bags, he would often tell us “You can’t forget the ice-cream! Such a hot day it is!” then hand us each a 7 cent size with a large, cold, chocolate, creamy ball pushed firmly down into the crispy cones. We’d glance at each other silently, thank him profusely, then get out of there quickly!

The walk home was much slower of course. We were so busy chewing and savouring, and counting out those chips, LOL. The cigars were the best, so eaten last. Mmmm…that liquorice taste melting over the tongue and sliding down the throat and seeming to last forever!!

Uh-oh! It’s happening again...the mouth watering……

Well, here’s a big SMILE out to y’all! I think I’ll go visit my daughter now…..then maybe drop in on my brother….Ciao!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

RAPH'S BIRTHDAY AND BIRD'S UPDATE

Today my once-upon-a-time ‘little’ grandson Raphael, is twelve, and started high school!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAPH!!! I won’t see him until the weekend, but his mom has a football party planned for him and his friends. Raph is our sports-minded member, much like his Uncle Bow, so will have a great time, I’m sure.

The hospital visit went well, although the docs are still ragging Bird about his smoking. Of course! Still, it is a hard thing to quit, and he has been a smoker since he was 12 – way before they came out with all the danger warnings. Now that he is not able to do much except sit around, it isn’t like he can keep busy to keep his mind off the habit. They did some blood tests after doing the camera down the throat thing, and next time he has to get chest x-rays too. They did say that things are looking good through the camera, considering all the radiation therapy he went through.

We stopped off at my place on the way back to pick up some water. He checked out a few things that needed repairs in the house while he was here, and we sat and chatted for a bit. It was nice to spend some quality time with him. I gave him some of my homemade cure-all soup, and he told me this morning on the phone that it was the best he’s ever tasted. Uh-huh – and full of good vitamins too! Maybe I’ll do one a week and try to fatten him up some!! He was quite delighted to hear that I got custody of the last jar of chokecherry jelly made by the cuz, Wicked Wendy!! LOL!!

When I walked into my office this morning my desk was much as I expected it to be – overflowing! Miss a day, and pay and pay, LOL! One of my old employers dropped in – I hadn’t seen him for ages – and he was happy to see us so busy. What with the regular employees, the new stagiaires, the computer technician, a dude measuring for new desks, two of my associates, and interviews every half hour – yep! I would say it was busy for sure!!

I finally convinced the associates that we needed a meeting for the financial update of our new companies; one to be held in the evening with all cellular phones turned off!! Maybe it was something to do with my wildly shaking my head every time they mentioned money…LOL! It’s to be held tomorrow night, and I have an appointment in the city at 7 AM with a client, so we’re in for a long day!!

My friend, Kilroy mentioned in his Blog that he saw some of our Canadian geese winging south this weekend. I didn’t see them, but I did hear them flying by during my walk with the doggies on Sunday. It’s sad to see them go, and it is also the sign that autumn is here, no matter that the official arrival day is September 21st. Eh bien, we look on the bright side…nice warm fires each evening, beautiful scenery, and soon CHRISTMAS, my favourite day of all!

And with that, I say goodnight, folks. Sweet dreams to y’all! I’m off to the Jacuzzi and, hopefully, will curl up in the arms of Murphy! Sending you my SMILE!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

FIGHTING THE BUG.

What about this weather, eh? In spite of the frequent visits to the bathroom, and the other uncomfortable virus symptoms, I was able to admire the picturesque spread provided by Mère Nature during the weekend. The maple leaves have just a touch of red and gold, their colours a perfect contrast to the evergreens. The same pattern was visible here and there on my mountain, whose majestic reach touched the bluest of blue skies. From my gallery I watched two little chipmunks scurry back and forth from ground to trees, losing them in the bright, yellow mustard weed, then spotting them again…the autumn preparations of gathering and storing before the snow falls. Bud ignores them, his experience telling him the chase is a lost cause, but the youngest pit, Grump-puppy, does his best to be their major pain in the butt. He tries to climb the tree where they have taken refuge. They chatter down at him loudly. Now and then he’ll let out a short bark, drowning out their incessant scolding. I was curled up on my swing, rocking lightly, taking it all in. I pulled my bare feet in under the warm, fuzzy tiger throw and let the medication and the relaxing sounds of a beautiful day outdoors do their thing; push me gently into the arms of Murphy. What a wonderful atmosphere in which to snooze!

By Sunday I was feeling better, although still slightly shaky. I decided to make a huge pot of soup, the renowned cure-all for any illness. Cooking relaxes me, and the creation of soup is one of my favourites. I call it a creation because there is no set recipe – you just throw whatever is on hand into the pot as you go along. This time it was two chunky butcher bones, saved beef stock, strips of round steak, lots of chopped, fresh veggies, a cup of noodles, a bit of barley and rice, some herbs and black pepper…and voilà! Add a couple of pieces of fresh buttered bread, and you have a feast fit for a king! The aroma filled the house, and the doggies made regular stops by the kitchen door, noses in the air, tails wagging hopefully. I treated them to a ladle each poured over their dry food, and the three of us dug in. Mmmm….good!

My brother, Bird, and I will be heading to the Cancer Clinic this morning. Because of the long drive, and the time spent there, I won’t be going into the office. I expect we will stop off at my home on the drive back to fill his water bottles (he prefers well-water to the town stuff), and, of course, a soup care package. Afterwards, I’ll hopefully be able to do the revision of our Healthcare project that I was supposed to this weekend before the virus so rudely interrupted my plans.

Here’s wishing you all a good Monday with nice surprises and warm SMILES, wherever you are and whatever you are doing. Ciao!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

THE ATTACK OF THE BUG

Ugh! I feared it would happen. People around me were sick off and on during the week. Even with two of the girls staying away from work, and continual hand washing, the bug managed to anchor itself into my system. Yesterday I woke with a scratchy, slightly sore throat, then last night the fact was laid bare. I had to force myself to stop off to say goodbye to Suzie on my way back from the office; she was leaving for Detroit at 4 AM this morning. I arrived home early enough (for me), dragging my body behind me. My bed had never felt so good…but the euphoria was short-lived. To make a long story (or long night!!) short, I spent most of the remaining hours bowing to the ‘porcelain god’ in one position or another. So this morning I’m seeing at all that beautiful sunshine outside and feeling extremely sorry for myself. I’m still feverish, have hardly enough energy to stand up straight, and it’s the weekend. Bah! Humbug!

I was to go visit the Bird today, but we’ll forget that idea. The last thing he needs is a virus. I’m to take him to the Cancer Clinic for his monthly check-up on Monday. I hope to be better by then, but have heard it lasts from 3 to 5 days. Just to be safe, I will warn him so that we can plan for an alternative driver if I’m not up to snuff. He can’t miss that appointment.

I was also supposed to go over the details for our project book on Health Care for the elderly. Most of the points were written out in longhand by a head nurse, and then typed up by one of our stagiares, but there is some revision to be done before retuning it to the nurse for final approval. Our agency is to provide special healthcare workers for senior residences in the city, and the training is to start in October. I tried reading it over this morning, but nothing is sinking into this foggy brain. The nurse will receive my second telephone call.

But I can still write – you see that? The truth is that I feel too awful to sleep, and my head spins worse as soon as I put it down on the pillow. So I decided to come in here and whine; misery loves company, etc... I’m signing off now though, because just these few paragraphs took me at least two hours to complete. I’m going to try sitting out on the gallery for a bit now. Hugging one of the doggies usually helps.

Enjoy your weekend, folks. My SMILE is a little weak, but still visible, so I’m sending it out to y’all. It should be safe – I don’t think this kind of bug has learned to ride cyberspace yet.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

TIMES, THEY ARE A CHANGIN'...

I don’t know if I’m running slower, or if time is flying away faster. Maybe a little of both? It seems I turn my head for a second and the next thing I know, I’m at the end of another day…then week…and now summer. Whether we like it or not, the leaves are already changing colours, the night air is friskier, and the grandchildren’s birthdays are here.

My daughter’s children were all born in the fall. Today Erika is 17, so HAPPY BIRTHDAY ERIKA! From a cute little girl – ‘sugar & spice’ - she has become a beautiful young lady; attending Dawson college, working at a grocery store, and has bought her first car. Shan’s youngest, Raphael, will be 12 next week, and has entered high school this year, another fact that has me shaking my head in wonder. Her oldest, Fred, turns 19 in October. He now has fulltime employment with a good company and is pulling in a salary higher than either his mom or grandmother….how about that?? Scattered among the grandchildren’s dates are the B-days of my god-daughter, who will also be 19 on the unforgettable date of September 11th; and my deceased sister’s only grandchild, who turns 11 just before celebrating Fred in October.

Yes, the two months put a bit of a dent in the wallet, but the realization of how they are children no longer is what really floors me. Mind you, I’m not complaining. They are all great kids, and I realize how lucky our family is that our offspring are happy, and safe, and building their own lives as quasi-adults. It’s just that I can’t shop for them in the toy section now, and this granny, who always considered herself pretty hip, finds herself at a loss when choosing their gifts. It used to be so easy with the dolls or the Tonka trucks or soccer balls. Now these kids are rattling off names of boutiques that I’ve never even heard of. As a teen, I’d have been highly insulted if anyone bought me clothes from a ‘Garage’. And how many types of shoes does ‘Puma’ make, for heaven’s sake? Then there’s the Wii, which, when my kids were little, meant find a bathroom, and quickly! I hate to admit it, but I usually cop out and just hand them a card with money, or fall back on my daughter’s knowledge (because she HAS kept up with the times) and hand her the envelopes and the power of choice. No way will I be accused of being like my own grandmother, who would show up with gifts like bloomers and pink ankle socks when I was already a derisive teen in bell-bottoms and Jesus sandals, LOL!

So the beat goes on. Because I also find that it takes me longer to make myself presentable in these early hours, I had better get a move on if I want to get to the office in time. One thing I don’t have a problem with is finding my SMILE, so I send mine out to y’all as I wish you a great day!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

A PLEASURE WORKING WITH YOU...

Any person applying for a position in accounting at our Agency is required to complete a short test. It helps us to determine the level of ability and allows us to be as accurate as possible when matching the applicant to a potential employer. For those who need it, we offer a one-day revision course, and our first was held on Wednesday past. Because he works mostly from another location, my associate’s mouth fell open when he dropped by the office. There were two ‘stagiares’ labouring, plus all the people in the reunion room for the course, our own employees, and another two persons in the process of being interviewed. It was a definite mix of nationalities, of gender and age, and a bevy of activity. He agreed that the ambiance in the place was exhilarating – full of hopeful excitement and, even though the work was serious, there was much laughter and good humour. So far, each ‘stagiare’ who has spent the temporary two or three weeks with us has mentioned that a job within our agency, in our office, would be first choice. It warms my heart, and affirms my belief that work and pleasure CAN be mixed, as long as it is done intelligently. We all know that a happy employee is more productive, so everyone wins. There IS stress and long hours when building a business, but those kind of days, and there are many of them, make it all worthwhile.

For a change of pace – the Dunany Demons have been extremely kind this week. Sunshine brightening the days, cooler night air for sleeping, and the Weather Network is predicting the same for the long Labour-Day weekend. Suzie will be returning to Detroit next Wednesday, so we plan to celebrate by attending the annual Cuban Festival in St-Sauveur. It’s a gala of smiling friends, great music, good food and, of course, plenty of ‘mojitas’. However, before that can happen, I need to get through the list on today’s agenda. It’s one of those 8 ½ by 11 inches books. I really need to look into buying a smaller one for next year, LOL!

So I’m off to brave the traffic and the world of business. Y’all have a great day; do whatever you need to do with a SMILE and with as much enthusiasm as you can muster. This is where we build the memories – make them good ones!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

AUTUMN AND STONE WALLS

That large, yellow orb is showing up later and later each morning. Once it finally does take its rightful place in the sky, it creates a mist over my mountain. The chill in the air sticks around longer; all signs that summer is bidding us farewell, and autumn will soon be painting a splendid picture on which to feast our eyes. And the beat goes on.

My good friend, Kilroy, was wondering in his comment why I would need a stone wall. For those of you who have not yet seen my house, it is situated on top of a hill. In fact, coming up my winding lane in the winter can be quite a challenge. The earth and sand find it much easier to slide down same hill, even more so since we’ve been getting bouts of torrential rains. You know the ones I mean – the drops are huge and fast and furious. The stone wall, besides being attractive, does much to thwart the weather’s effort to sent those numerous (and expensive) loads of earth and gravel to the bottom of the steep incline. Unfortunately, Mr. Heinz the perfectionist, has built it up and taken it apart more than once because a certain stone ‘didn’t look right’, so the area surrounding the house is constantly mucky from the disturbance. It does wonders for the floors, especially with two doggies who DON’T wipe their feet! LOL.

Shan is finally into her new place. I felt so sorry for the previous owner, who was moving out with the help only of a small pickup truck, a car, another lady, and her elderly father. I offered the services of our movers, but she refused. Suzie came down, one of Shan’s friends showed up, and between us all we got the biggest part spic ‘n span and settled in. I don’t envy my daughter who, this morning, will wake up to numerous bags and boxes waiting to be unpacked. It’s a very nice home, with a beautiful, big flower and shrub filled backyard and, much to her dog’s delight, another in ground pool. Just that alone convinced Dixie that this place will be okay, as long as her family was with her.

My son, Bow, started his new job (but with the same company) yesterday and I was anxious to hear if he liked it. He seems to think so, at present anyway, from his comments on Facebook. He was never an avid driver, and this position requires mostly driving. so that worried me. Not mother hen at all, is she?

It’s that time again – shower and rush hour. The students are back to universities and college, a fact clearly demonstrated on the main routes into the city. More traffic, hesitant drivers, and the need for good music to keep down road rage, LOL!

The weather network tells us the sun will be around for the whole week, so who can complain? I’m sending you all a big SMILE, and reminding you that your own is important to whomever you will see today….let it be the first thing you put on each morning! C ya!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

SHAN'S MOVE - AND SIGNING PAPERS

Although the scene was beautiful – the sun rising on my mountain - it was somewhat chilly to sit out on the gallery swing wearing just pyjamas this morning. I wrapped myself up in my old, thick, pink housecoat, a gift from my mom many years ago; put on my high furry slipper boots, and that fit the bill. My coffee cup was steaming, so warmed my two hands, and I could feel the heat off the doggies who leaned up against my legs as I sat there, drinking in the morning silence. All was good.

It was late Saturday afternoon by the time we got Shan’s stuff moved out of her house and piled into the truck. She was staying the weekend with some friends, and we parked the truck there. I drove the movers back home, and will pick them up around 3 PM today so that they can unload everything into Shan’s new home. Suzie is on standby; she’ll be coming down this afternoon to help us give the place a good scrubbing before setting everything up. Uncle Bird has been babysitting Shan’s cat, Nimo, during the activity. I dropped in on him yesterday, and the pair are doing very well together. Bird is a natural with animals. I have yet to see one that has not cuddled up to him immediately. Shan’s dog, Dixie, stayed over with her at her friends. The poor creatures must be wondering what is going on.

Heinz invited me for supper at his apartment Saturday night. He’s an excellent cook, so there was no hesitation there. He’s starting his course next week, and is rushing to get my stone wall done, and to put the stain on the gallery and windows before immersing himself into the theory studies. In November he leaves for Quebec City to do the actually handling of the machines. If he keeps himself sober, I know he’ll succeed with flying colours. He has a knack with anything motorized. We have signed the papers, and there is no longer any question about the house being mine. As has been said again and again, good papers make good business…or friends. We both know exactly where we are going. It’s much easier that way.

It’s time for me to hit the road. A quick jump into the office (and I have a good excuse for wearing jeans to work today, LOL), then back here to complete the move. The sun is brilliant out there folks – it has come back after a weekend off, so put on your best SMILE and get outside if you can. I’ve been wearing my SMILE since yesterday, and it feels great!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

HAPPY B-DAY LUKE...AND POSTPONED X-RAYS

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY to my NB nephew, LUKE! He turned a big 8 years old, and the pictures of his party are posted on Facebook. I have no doubt that his Mom & Dad made sure his day was a good one!

Here at home…well….I didn’t make it to the x-ray place today. I was planning to go first thing this morning, but the phone rang as I was getting dressed…another mini-crisis… and I ended up going into the office instead. I had it in mind to leave after my 1 PM appointment with a client but, although he called at 1 PM to tell me he was running late and was on his way, he showed up at 3 pm!! Don’t even bother trying to get out of the city at that time. The only thing you’ll get is a high level of traffic frustration. SO…tomorrow morning I see another client at 8:30 (I’m going to his office, and will be on time) then I’ll stop off at the x-ray place before heading to our Gatineau office. I have a couple of potential employees to interview there, the last at 5:30. It’s going to be another late night.

The good news is that the swelling in my leg has gone down, and the pain too. Just that alone is encouraging. The medication is not too drastic; a little nausea, but endurable.

Bird’s doctor didn’t call about his lung x-rays. The dummy (yes, I mean Bird!) didn’t contact her either. She shares an office with my doctor, so it is the same receptionists that I wrote about last week. When I reminded Bird about this fact, also that it was quite possible his doc never even received the results, he promised to call her tomorrow to check it out. He did tell me he is feeling and breathing better, so that’s a relief.

Shan is moving this weekend. It’s a bit of a hassle, because she has to be out of her old house by Saturday, but can’t move into her new house before Monday. Fortunately one of our companies owns a moving truck, and it’s not booked for this weekend. Her stuff will have to sleep in the truck from Sat. morning until Mon. afternoon. Suzie, the Mrs. Clean expert, is coming down Monday morning to give us both a hand in cleaning out the new place. Ha! Another day off for yours truly!

That’s it for now, folks. I’m off to the Jacuzzi, then into Murphy’s arms. My doggies are keeping guard on the gallery, and the Dunany demons have been kind enough to give us not only gorgeous sunshine during the day, but cool night air for the perfect snooze! Wishing you all pleasant dreams, and sending you my sleepy SMILE!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

A CHILD'S INFLUENCE

There is nothing quite like a baby’s hug to put your heart right. Last evening I stopped off at my youngest son’s home to pick up papers for his monthly accounting. Mommy was working and, Bali, who turned two in June, was missing her so badly! What good timing for Granny’s arrival! When I picked him up, he put his chubby arms around me and cuddled into my neck; I could feel the warm weight of his lovable, tiny head on my shoulder, and smell that sweet baby scent when I rubbed my nose against his soft, silky hair. Nalou, his four year old brother, got his turn in too. Hugs and kisses galore! A perfect way to wind down the day!

Three years ago I lost two very close friends within months of each other. In both cases their ends were tragic, and the lapse of time between their deaths was way too soon. My mind and heart were reeling from the shock and sadness of it all. I felt the sudden need when I left the second funeral. I made my way to my son’s house. Little Nalou, who was about a year old at the time, had just been put down for his nap, but his parents got him up. Together we watched him as he played around us; copping hugs and kisses, and just cuddling and feeling his warmth for a bit. His expression, his smiles, his embrace….it helped soothe the turmoil inside. It was something precious on a very bad day; a baby’s innocence tempering the despair of loss.

There are certain senior’s residences where visits from nursery school children are greatly encouraged. It is said that the little ones brighten the smiles of many of the elders. The children gaze on those wrinkled faces with wondering eyes, and the wise seniors respond with patience and caring. As in days gone by, and those yet to come, the generations take strength and learn from each other.

Life is good.

SHOW & TELL: VACATION

Sunday – a beautiful morning. As I slip quietly out of bed, I glance through the French doors where Grump-puppy is keeping vigil on the gallery. He turns his head; he has heard me. Good. That’s part of his job, after all. Bud doesn’t move, seemingly blissfully unaware, but I know he has heard me too. Why move when the youngster is gung-ho is prove his stuff? No fool, Mr. Bud will save his energy. He’ll use it to show off, pushing rocks twice his size up and down the hills, when his human steps outside.

Tomorrow I go back to the office. The short week of vacation is over. Let’s see….how did it go? MMM…Monday was a lost cause – my leg was swollen and painful, although I did manage to read a whole book. Tuesday was the event at my doctor’s office, certainly not helping my mood, but that was offset by the cuddles from the grandsons. Because I didn’t sleep many hours the first 2 days, I spent most of Wednesday morning in bed, only rushing to get dressed when I received the call that one of my associates was on his way to my house. Yep – that was for business which couldn’t wait, so I worked, albeit from home, Wednesday afternoon into the evening. On Thursday the phone started ringing early - more office things needing an immediate response – and this went on until Thursday night. I took a break by going to one of my ‘used-to-be-favourite’ restaurants for a late supper, only to find that its 5-star meal has fallen to a 1-star category, but still charging the same high prices. How disappointing! Friday morning was a funeral, and the afternoon spent taking my bro, Bird, to the hospital for x-rays of his lungs. We think he has developed pneumonia again and, because he knew I was on vacation, he waited until he could hardly breathe before calling to tell me about it – the dummy! Back from the hospital I fell into bed, and slept for 14 hours!!!! Man, did I feel good when I got up yesterday!! I did some writing, some washing, then went to visit Suzie for a couple of hours, stopped off to see how Bird was doing and chatted there for a bit, then came home and hit the sack again, sleeping another full 8 hours! I awake to bright sunshine, my leg is far less painful, and this vacation, although on its last day, is beginning to look much better. LOL!

Okay, so I’ve learned my lesson. The next time I book days off, I’ll visit the doctor a month BEFORE the allotted period, I will unplug the phones, I’ll tell all and sundry that I am going to Timbuktu, then keep my head down. Right now, at this very moment, I’ll stop my whining and get my butt out into this invigorating mountain air and join my doggies, who are waiting patiently for my company.

I hope you are enjoying the day too, y’all! I’m sending out my SMILE, humming “My, what a beautiful morning…” Sing along with me, and please send that smile on….

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

A MOTHER'S PASSING

I wasn’t looking forward to the funeral. The deceased lady had been found alone in her apartment. Her torment from a long history of substance abuse was over. The authorities contacted her only child, a young man dear to my heart. He is a close friend of my son, therefore of our whole family and, a few years ago, had shared our lodgings while studying to become an engineer. He was still reeling from learning of his wife’s 12 month secret love affair, the necessity of selling his new home, and having to adjust to seeing his two year old twins every second week, none of it at his instigation – and now this.

I knew he would be strong and would bear up with dignity, because that is his way. He stood with his head high, his face inscrutable, surrounded by his numerous, sympathetic friends, and his father’s second family. What saddened me most was thinking that his mother, because of the troubled, and troublesome, path she had trod in her lifetime, would be passing on leaving only her son to remember and mourn her with any kind of love. I’m sure many people considered it a blessing in disguise.

A person rose from her seat and made her way to the pulpit, holding a sheaf of papers in shaking hands. Sincere sorrow laced her voice as she told us of days gone by; days when her friend, now just ashes in an urn at her feet, had danced and sang and loved and laughed; the days before, and between, the bouts of a depressing and consuming alcohol addiction. As my eyes filled with tears, I silently thanked the speaker. The son bowed his head. I am sure that he felt as I did. His mother’s life still meant something to someone else after all.

When it was over, and I was in my truck on my way home, I sent her out my message by telepathy. “Well, Suzie, “I told her, “Maybe your turbulent existence was needed to make him strong. If that’s the case, your life was a success...”

I didn’t need to add that I hoped, for her next time around, she would have an easier time of it. The feeling was there, and I’m certain she understood.

AND WHAT DID I DO TO YOU?

The swelling in my leg was getting worse, and painful. Because my doctor’s office is a 45 minute drive from home, I called his receptionist early Monday morning, explained that I must have lost the prescription for the anti-inflammation medication, and could he please fax another to my pharmacy? “The doctor isn’t in before Tuesday,” she told me abruptly, “and you’ll have to come to the office if you want another prescription.” When I repeated my request for the fax, she answered that it would be a long time before that would happen. In other words – if you want your prescription anytime soon, lady, get your butt over here and pick it up, and arrive before 2 PM., or go without. Her attitude on the telephone left much to be desired. Oh well, everyone has a bad day now and then.

Needless to say, I spent another sleepless night. Tylenol took away some of the pain, but not enough to be comfortable. I was pretty grumpy by the time I limped into the doctor’s office this morning, but the two receptionists seemed even grumpier. Hardly looking at me, one of them told me to sit and wait; she would ask him to write it out between seeing two patients. When I asked how long I could expect to wait, she replied, “He’s not going to interrupt his session with a patient just to make your prescription.” Still bewildered by her surliness, I reminded her that I had travelled a long distance, and that a fax would have been easier for all of us. Her response was “It’s not our fault you lost your prescription!”

Okay. I couldn’t argue with that, but one doesn’t lose things on purpose, and her attitude was totally lacking professionalism. I limped over to a chair, wondering what I’d done to merit that kind of treatment. They see me once a year, for Heaven’s sake, and it’s just in and out. Maybe the $1.00 long distance fax charge was too big an expense for the doctor’s office?

During the next 40 minutes, two patients, one after the other, went in, then out, and I still hadn’t been called. I could feel my temper rising. “If they make me wait for one more,” I fumed silently, “they had better have a damned good reason!” It was 5 minutes before noon when one of my objects of displeasure waddled out from behind the desk and locked the waiting room door.

“It’s lunchtime,” she stated shortly. The three of us still sitting there glanced at each other. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one thinking that, with her size, missing a lunch would only do her good. I saw an elderly man peer through the small window in the door. Of all the bloody nerve! She had locked it right in his face! It was too much for me so, looking neither left nor right, I limped over and opened it to let him enter. The poor fellow thanked me, and then shuffled over to the desk. He told the receptionists that he had just finished passing tests at the hospital and needed to pick up a paper before returning to pass some more. They grumbled something about it being dinnertime, but did give him his paper.

Maybe they were worried that I’d let someone else in, because I heard my name called. The receptionist who had talked to me on the telephone the day before busied herself near me, changing paper on the examination table. My doctor, a nice young chap, smiled when he saw me. “I’m sorry, I must have lost the prescription you gave me,” I told him, as I lowered myself to a chair beside his desk.

“No, no!” he replied. “It was me who forgot to give it to you. I noticed after you had left, but figured you would call and we could fax it over to your pharmacy.”

WHAT!!??

I turned to look at the receptionist. She was keeping her head down, but I knew she could hear every word we were saying. Just in case her ears were as bad as her attitude, I raised my voice when I told the doctor what had happened and how rudely I had been treated. It was evident he was embarrassed by the situation, so I stopped short of stating that any employee in my office would be severely reprimanded, if not dismissed, in similar circumstances.

Eh bien, all’s well that ends well. My growling had already subsided during my long drive back, my prescription safely in my pocket. The weather was great, the truck windows open, and I was on vacation, after all. How can one stay upset? I stopped at my youngest son’s home to give my daughter-in-law her birthday present, and any residual anger was blown away by the many sweet hugs and kisses from my two little grandsons. I’ve started the medication and, hopefully, will not have to spend the rest of my vacation days limping!

I sat outside on my gallery, a cool drink in hand, doggies at my feet, and admired my mountain view as I thought back over the event. I suppose I should count myself lucky even having a family doctor, or easy access to medical help. There are many who go without, and need it more. Dealing with sick people on a regular basis must make it difficult to stay in good humour. However, you know what you’re getting into when you choose that type of profession…..

The result of my musing was definite. “Yep,” I said out loud to my doggies. “Excuses aside, if any employee at our office did that, I would CAN her ass!!” They both wagged their tails. Any decision I made was good with them.

Was it important? Not really. So enough with the complaining, and bring on the SMILES. Life is good.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.