I never did make it to the office yesterday.
I was right about the backhoe tire venture. It wasn’t just the tube, but the tire itself, so it needed to be replaced. It took forever for the garage dude’s second truck to show up when this was determined, and we sat there waiting…waiting. When he finally did arrive and unloaded the replacement, it was not at all the same as those already on the machine, except for the size. This, of course, gave us two choices: leave the backhoe sitting there on the road wearing one tire until we could phone around and find the exact match, or have this one installed and purchase the second one to complete the pair. Because of the time already involved, and realizing that eventually the other one would have to be replaced anyway due to its age, I took the second option. It was well past 3 PM by the time the men finished, and then….the machine wouldn’t start! Fortunately one of my neighbours was able to bring his big truck to give it a boost, and by 4:30 PM we were back at the house, backhoe and all. Too late to head to the city office. Then, not upset enough about falling behind in my work, and the forced purchase depleting my bank account, I discovered that some idiot had decided to televise my hockey game at 2 in the afternoon instead of its usual Saturday night spot. Yep, missed that too. GRRR!
Not getting to the office yesterday means I need to go today, instead of working from home as had been planned. I’ll be heading there in a few minutes. At least there is no rush hour to endure – just the regular Sunday drivers.
An update on one of my former blogs – remember the e-mail pen pal from New Year’s Day? The one who asked us to pray for her husband after his open heart surgery? I received a message from her this morning. He is doing well, and the pacemaker is functioning as hoped. Did our prayers and positive waves help? No doubt. I am happy for them both, and extend a sincere thank you to all the readers who answered the call.
Gotta go, folks. There is no sun here today, so it’s easier for me to turn my back on this winter wonderland and shut myself away with columns & columns of numbers, LOL!
Enjoy the rest of your weekend – am sending you all a SMILE as my contribution!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
WEEKEND EVENTS
This morning you can look out of any one of the many windows in my house and get stuck there, admiring the view. I know it’s very cold (was -36 last night), but the sun is shining, and doing the most wonderful things to the snow-covered mountain, the long winding lane, the trees…a postcard picture no matter which direction holds your gaze. With such a feast for the eyes, it’s hard to imagine why anyone could complain about our Canadian winters. Note that I am standing inside, where the fires’ warmth allows me to admire the beauty while still garbed in my pyjamas. If I was standing outside dressed in similar attire, feeling the bone-chilling temperature, my words would probably wax less poetic, LOL.
I will be working all weekend. It’s annoying, but expected in my chosen line of work at this time of year. I should be in the office by now, in fact, but more than one event has delayed my departure.
The first is that Murphy held me in his arms later than planned; it was such a deep sleep, and thoroughly appreciated by this insomniac. Granted, I had not been in bed that long. Karen, my long-time friend who lives in Saskatoon, called last night and, as is usual when we get gabbing, time just whizzed by. Was it five or six hours before we reluctantly said goodbye and hung up the phone? I’m not sure, but it doesn’t matter. It’s a rare occasion when we get the chance to chat together, and our conversations never seem to last long enough.
The second reason is job-related. We received a request from a hospital yesterday - the services of two nurses are needed, beginning next Monday. My co-worker found the candidates, which is a feat in itself. Nurses are at a premium in this area. My colleague is meeting one of the ladies for her C.V. and copies of diplomas, and I am to pick the documents up, then fax the information from my office to the hospital this afternoon. When the administrator arrives on Monday morning, everything will be ready. We enjoy being able to provide good and rapid results.
The third reason is not so pleasing. My backhoe is stuck on a side road with a busted tire. Heinz is out there now waiting on the garage dude to arrive. It is one of the huge, back wheels, and they do not come cheap. I foresee another loaded credit card. Ugh!
Now it’s time to go. Hope you are all enjoying the first day of the weekend. Sending you my SMILE!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
I will be working all weekend. It’s annoying, but expected in my chosen line of work at this time of year. I should be in the office by now, in fact, but more than one event has delayed my departure.
The first is that Murphy held me in his arms later than planned; it was such a deep sleep, and thoroughly appreciated by this insomniac. Granted, I had not been in bed that long. Karen, my long-time friend who lives in Saskatoon, called last night and, as is usual when we get gabbing, time just whizzed by. Was it five or six hours before we reluctantly said goodbye and hung up the phone? I’m not sure, but it doesn’t matter. It’s a rare occasion when we get the chance to chat together, and our conversations never seem to last long enough.
The second reason is job-related. We received a request from a hospital yesterday - the services of two nurses are needed, beginning next Monday. My co-worker found the candidates, which is a feat in itself. Nurses are at a premium in this area. My colleague is meeting one of the ladies for her C.V. and copies of diplomas, and I am to pick the documents up, then fax the information from my office to the hospital this afternoon. When the administrator arrives on Monday morning, everything will be ready. We enjoy being able to provide good and rapid results.
The third reason is not so pleasing. My backhoe is stuck on a side road with a busted tire. Heinz is out there now waiting on the garage dude to arrive. It is one of the huge, back wheels, and they do not come cheap. I foresee another loaded credit card. Ugh!
Now it’s time to go. Hope you are all enjoying the first day of the weekend. Sending you my SMILE!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
WORKING FROM HOME
I was forced to stay and work from home yesterday, whether I wanted to or not. The steep hill, which is part of the lane, was now glare ice…all the way down. Because it was still pouring rain, there was no use trying to sand it – it would be immediately washed away. The satellite for internet was working though, and the phones, and most of the day was spent using either one or the other to keep in touch with the office and clients. By late afternoon the weather let up some, and we were able to use the backhoe to groom the culprit. This morning I should be able to drive away without worrying about sliding through the few small trees and landing in my neighbour’s house…sideways… LOL!
Although it was slightly bothersome – I had a long list on my agenda – it wasn’t anywhere near the frustration and panic I’d have felt years earlier when not able to make it to the office. I can remember the stress of driving to work in the dark, through blinding snowstorms, in a little corolla station wagon. I was responsible for opening the money exchange booth at the airport, and that meant being there for 4:30 AM, come hell or high water. If there was a storm, I would leave an hour earlier than usual. Often the only other vehicles on the road at that time of night would be the huge snowploughs, and they didn’t move for anybody! Meeting one struck terror in my already hammering heart. They used three-quarters of the road, were moving fast, and I would squeeze over, leaning into the steering wheel, my fists clenched on it tight, peering through the thick, blowing snow made worse by their passage, praying that I wouldn’t run into the ditch on my side. We had no cellular phones at the time, so if you took the ditch, you stayed there until a good Samaritan would stop and help you out. They were far and few between at 2:30 AM.
We’ve come a long way, baby! My four-wheel drive handles much better in snow than the little Corolla, and it’s parked in a garage both at home or at work, so there is no time lost in scraping ice off the windows. My cell-phone is a constant companion, and there’s a little card in my wallet which guarantees roadside help if needed within minutes (I had the occasion to use it last year, and it works!!). Rapid access to the office computer by internet makes it possible to work from wherever I am. Even better, the only person who can get on my case if I don’t show up is my self, and that’s not going to happen, LOL!
Lucky, you say? Well, a little, maybe. Technical advances have much to do with it. But where I am now is mostly due to many hours of hard work, and study. Some of it could be the result of wisdom acquired with age too. I refuse to put myself through that kind of stress now. I have learned that the extra buck just isn’t worth it.
With all that said and done, I need to prepare for this morning’s drive to the city. The hill is negotiable, rush hour is nearly over, and I’ve got a new CD that will rock me all the way there. Life is good.
Sending you SMILES!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Although it was slightly bothersome – I had a long list on my agenda – it wasn’t anywhere near the frustration and panic I’d have felt years earlier when not able to make it to the office. I can remember the stress of driving to work in the dark, through blinding snowstorms, in a little corolla station wagon. I was responsible for opening the money exchange booth at the airport, and that meant being there for 4:30 AM, come hell or high water. If there was a storm, I would leave an hour earlier than usual. Often the only other vehicles on the road at that time of night would be the huge snowploughs, and they didn’t move for anybody! Meeting one struck terror in my already hammering heart. They used three-quarters of the road, were moving fast, and I would squeeze over, leaning into the steering wheel, my fists clenched on it tight, peering through the thick, blowing snow made worse by their passage, praying that I wouldn’t run into the ditch on my side. We had no cellular phones at the time, so if you took the ditch, you stayed there until a good Samaritan would stop and help you out. They were far and few between at 2:30 AM.
We’ve come a long way, baby! My four-wheel drive handles much better in snow than the little Corolla, and it’s parked in a garage both at home or at work, so there is no time lost in scraping ice off the windows. My cell-phone is a constant companion, and there’s a little card in my wallet which guarantees roadside help if needed within minutes (I had the occasion to use it last year, and it works!!). Rapid access to the office computer by internet makes it possible to work from wherever I am. Even better, the only person who can get on my case if I don’t show up is my self, and that’s not going to happen, LOL!
Lucky, you say? Well, a little, maybe. Technical advances have much to do with it. But where I am now is mostly due to many hours of hard work, and study. Some of it could be the result of wisdom acquired with age too. I refuse to put myself through that kind of stress now. I have learned that the extra buck just isn’t worth it.
With all that said and done, I need to prepare for this morning’s drive to the city. The hill is negotiable, rush hour is nearly over, and I’ve got a new CD that will rock me all the way there. Life is good.
Sending you SMILES!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
THE CHOICE FOR BUD
Sometimes…we have to make difficult choices. And I have made mine – and Bud’s. There was no operation.
Part of my job involves working with health professionals, but for humans. Cancer is cancer. Because they are what they are, I mentioned Bud’s condition. I told them where the tumour was located.
“How old is the dog?” one inquired. When I told her Bud was 9, nearly 10, she frowned. I know she’s a dog lover.
“What?” I asked. Her expression alarmed me.
“It’s up to you,” she replied, “but if it was me, I’d let it go and leave him fade away in peace. Take him back to the vet when the cancer gets too painful to endure. The operation won’t help. It will just give him more pain. He may be okay for a month or so….but more than likely not. It will be pain until you can’t stand it anymore, then you’ll have to get him put down anyway.”
Although her words tore my heart, she had just confirmed what had been a nagging fear in the back of my mind. Still…even if she has worked in the field for a long time, I wanted another opinion. I went back to my office and searched the internet. I typed in “life expectancy for pit-bull”; then “cancer in dogs”. Everything I read supported her view. The tumour was in a bad spot, and his age needed to be considered too. The most we could expect after the operation would be an extra 5 to 6 months, and not necessarily good ones. Then we would have to go through it all again.
I didn’t stop there. One of my friends, who has owned dogs for years, has a contact in the veterinary circles. We called long distance and finally reached the man. No, he said. The cancer is placed where you can’t get it all without removing his anus, operating will only make it spread faster, and the animal will suffer more. It would be needless pain, with the same result. It’s a question of what you want, he told me sympathetically; quality or quantity time for your pet? And, unlike with humans you love, here you DO have a choice.
My indomitable Bud has a high tolerance for pain. This mutt went under the wheel of a SUV, got up, shook himself, and kept running after his chosen rock as if nothing had happened. But…he’s no longer a pup….. his breed has a life expectancy of between 10 to 12 years when healthy.
At the moment he is eating well, and is forever chasing ice chunks down the hill when we are outside, and continues to shake the heck out of the welcome mat when he sees me come in the door. The only time he shows any discomfort at all is at night and this after a day of play. Then he’ll groan like a person with arthritis, which, muscular as he is, is probably present in his body too. He has more difficulty climbing the stairs in the evening, and is wheezing some, but old age will cause that.
After much soul searching, I decided that I don’t want him to suffer until there is no other option, especially if the operation is only going to induce pain earlier, and, according to experts who do NOT just want my money, has little or no chance of success. So far he is still going strong. I chose quality. When I called the surgeon to cancel the appointment, she showed no surprise.
My attitude towards him has changed, of course. I pay more attention to him when I’m at home, scold him less, hand out treats more often. He responds in his “ME, Bud” fashion – I am no sooner sitting down than he’s leaning against me, insisting on being petted, or lying heavily on my feet, or thrusting his huge head under my arm with total disregard for whatever I may be holding in my hand at the time. That’s fine with me. We’ll enjoy each other for as long as we can. When the time comes for him to cross Rainbow Bridge, I’ll hug him tightly, kiss the top of head, and let him go; his dignity intact.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
Part of my job involves working with health professionals, but for humans. Cancer is cancer. Because they are what they are, I mentioned Bud’s condition. I told them where the tumour was located.
“How old is the dog?” one inquired. When I told her Bud was 9, nearly 10, she frowned. I know she’s a dog lover.
“What?” I asked. Her expression alarmed me.
“It’s up to you,” she replied, “but if it was me, I’d let it go and leave him fade away in peace. Take him back to the vet when the cancer gets too painful to endure. The operation won’t help. It will just give him more pain. He may be okay for a month or so….but more than likely not. It will be pain until you can’t stand it anymore, then you’ll have to get him put down anyway.”
Although her words tore my heart, she had just confirmed what had been a nagging fear in the back of my mind. Still…even if she has worked in the field for a long time, I wanted another opinion. I went back to my office and searched the internet. I typed in “life expectancy for pit-bull”; then “cancer in dogs”. Everything I read supported her view. The tumour was in a bad spot, and his age needed to be considered too. The most we could expect after the operation would be an extra 5 to 6 months, and not necessarily good ones. Then we would have to go through it all again.
I didn’t stop there. One of my friends, who has owned dogs for years, has a contact in the veterinary circles. We called long distance and finally reached the man. No, he said. The cancer is placed where you can’t get it all without removing his anus, operating will only make it spread faster, and the animal will suffer more. It would be needless pain, with the same result. It’s a question of what you want, he told me sympathetically; quality or quantity time for your pet? And, unlike with humans you love, here you DO have a choice.
My indomitable Bud has a high tolerance for pain. This mutt went under the wheel of a SUV, got up, shook himself, and kept running after his chosen rock as if nothing had happened. But…he’s no longer a pup….. his breed has a life expectancy of between 10 to 12 years when healthy.
At the moment he is eating well, and is forever chasing ice chunks down the hill when we are outside, and continues to shake the heck out of the welcome mat when he sees me come in the door. The only time he shows any discomfort at all is at night and this after a day of play. Then he’ll groan like a person with arthritis, which, muscular as he is, is probably present in his body too. He has more difficulty climbing the stairs in the evening, and is wheezing some, but old age will cause that.
After much soul searching, I decided that I don’t want him to suffer until there is no other option, especially if the operation is only going to induce pain earlier, and, according to experts who do NOT just want my money, has little or no chance of success. So far he is still going strong. I chose quality. When I called the surgeon to cancel the appointment, she showed no surprise.
My attitude towards him has changed, of course. I pay more attention to him when I’m at home, scold him less, hand out treats more often. He responds in his “ME, Bud” fashion – I am no sooner sitting down than he’s leaning against me, insisting on being petted, or lying heavily on my feet, or thrusting his huge head under my arm with total disregard for whatever I may be holding in my hand at the time. That’s fine with me. We’ll enjoy each other for as long as we can. When the time comes for him to cross Rainbow Bridge, I’ll hug him tightly, kiss the top of head, and let him go; his dignity intact.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
BACK TO WORK
I could have used another week at home. It seems I was just winding down, beginning to absorb my stress-detox, and it was time to return. I did work from home during last week, but it wasn’t the same – it didn’t feel so much like a race against time. The girls held the fort well, and now it’s Yoshiko’s turn. She and Bow are leaving for Japan early tomorrow morning; he’s staying a week, and Yo will be back in mi-February. She’s just glowing with the anticipation of seeing her family again. It’s cute to see her go, excitement dancing in her eyes, LOL. Tonight Bow will be bringing their car to park it in the office garage where it will stay during his absence. He has no driveway at his apartment, and each day the car has to be moved from one side of the street to the other or it will be towed. They have made arrangements with ‘Uncle Bird’ (my brother), to take care of the cats, AC & DC. Bird has become the official, what he calls ‘pussy-watcher’, while they are away.
During my break from the office last week, I found myself sleeping from 8 to 10 hours at a stretch. So-o-o NICE! But now I’m back, and so, it seems, is the 4 hour max snooze. Murphy wouldn’t stick around for long these past two nights. Eh, bien, we shall see how it works out. I’m still planning on working from home each Friday, starting this week. That may help.
Because I will be staying late at the office tonight (I’m driving Bow & Yo home), I will take an hour this morning to stop by the car-wash. By necessity, there is a lot of sand put on our roads out here in the bush. I think half of it stuck to my truck – one can’t even tell what colour it is at the moment, LOL! There’s a lady in town who does the job, cheap too, and they say she’s quite good.
The sun is coming up over my mountain now, so I’m off to get my morning dose of nature’s splendour. Wishing you all a good day and sending you my warmest SMILE. Don’t forget to distribute your own – someone out there will be needing it!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
During my break from the office last week, I found myself sleeping from 8 to 10 hours at a stretch. So-o-o NICE! But now I’m back, and so, it seems, is the 4 hour max snooze. Murphy wouldn’t stick around for long these past two nights. Eh, bien, we shall see how it works out. I’m still planning on working from home each Friday, starting this week. That may help.
Because I will be staying late at the office tonight (I’m driving Bow & Yo home), I will take an hour this morning to stop by the car-wash. By necessity, there is a lot of sand put on our roads out here in the bush. I think half of it stuck to my truck – one can’t even tell what colour it is at the moment, LOL! There’s a lady in town who does the job, cheap too, and they say she’s quite good.
The sun is coming up over my mountain now, so I’m off to get my morning dose of nature’s splendour. Wishing you all a good day and sending you my warmest SMILE. Don’t forget to distribute your own – someone out there will be needing it!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
BUD
Bud has been the main character of a story I wrote when I joined my writing club. The story covers 15 chapters, and it is all true. I'm thinking of posting it here, chapter by chapter, just so readers will know how much history there is between me and this pit-bull named Bud. This post, however, is what is happening now.
My Bud has cancer.
I have been to see more than one vet. The first one guessed it was an abscess, then poked and probed in it with a needle to the point where I stepped back – Bud’s lip was curling and he was growling. It’s extremely rare, but when Bud does that, one pays attention. That dog can pick up bigger rocks than I can, and does it on a regular basis. I’ve heard there is up to 2000 pounds of pressure in a pit-bull’s bite. I wasn’t about to find out if it was true or not. When I warned the vet, she decided to put a muzzle on him, and this he did NOT like. It took three of the assistants to hold him…for about 15 seconds…and they went flying back when Bud decided enough was enough – he was getting up and out. All that (at a cost of $280.00!) for nothing anyway, because 5 days later they called back to tell me they could not determine what caused the huge bump on his backside.
My daughter had recommended another vet – one in St-Benoit. It was a longer ride, but Bud enjoyed the excursions in the truck, so I made an appointment. This man knew his business. He didn’t probe. “Cancer tumour”, he said, on seeing the lump. Because he does not do that type of surgery, he gave me the telephone number for a specialist in Lachine.
The specialist was excellent. Instead of upsetting the dog by putting him up on a table, the vet got down on his knees beside Bud. Instant rapport. He was able to support the diagnosis, and took a biopsy to get more information. Within 48 hours he called me to suggest a surgeon outside the hospital. She was good, he knew her personally, and she would do it for half the going rate charged by the hospital. He gave me his cellular number so that she could contact him for more information.
Last Thursday night, Bud and I went to meet her. She, too, did not attempt to put the dog on a table, but knelt beside him to verify the info she had received. She warned me that she may not be able to remove all the cancer. The lump is right beside his anus, so cutting away all the disease may be impossible. But she would do the best she could.. She told me the fee, which was 1/3 of what the hospital would charge, so I agreed. Bud will be operated on next Thursday.
He’s only a dog, I know, but as much as I hated him when I first met him, that much I love him now. He is hard-headed, independent, and as macho as they come, and he’s his own dog. He’s a pure pit-bull, with stress on the ‘BULL’, but he’s also a big-hearted, loyal, cuddly mutt; a dog with a sense of self who has won my heart. Whatever extra time I can give him, I will do so without hesitation. It’s as much for me as for him – I don’t even want to think of losing him.
Besides – I’ll get to see him waddle around in a diaper for a couple of days. That is going to hurt his dignity big-time. And he owes me this one.
But damn – I almost forgot. I’m going to have to wipe his butt twice a day to prevent infection. Bud wins again.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
My Bud has cancer.
I have been to see more than one vet. The first one guessed it was an abscess, then poked and probed in it with a needle to the point where I stepped back – Bud’s lip was curling and he was growling. It’s extremely rare, but when Bud does that, one pays attention. That dog can pick up bigger rocks than I can, and does it on a regular basis. I’ve heard there is up to 2000 pounds of pressure in a pit-bull’s bite. I wasn’t about to find out if it was true or not. When I warned the vet, she decided to put a muzzle on him, and this he did NOT like. It took three of the assistants to hold him…for about 15 seconds…and they went flying back when Bud decided enough was enough – he was getting up and out. All that (at a cost of $280.00!) for nothing anyway, because 5 days later they called back to tell me they could not determine what caused the huge bump on his backside.
My daughter had recommended another vet – one in St-Benoit. It was a longer ride, but Bud enjoyed the excursions in the truck, so I made an appointment. This man knew his business. He didn’t probe. “Cancer tumour”, he said, on seeing the lump. Because he does not do that type of surgery, he gave me the telephone number for a specialist in Lachine.
The specialist was excellent. Instead of upsetting the dog by putting him up on a table, the vet got down on his knees beside Bud. Instant rapport. He was able to support the diagnosis, and took a biopsy to get more information. Within 48 hours he called me to suggest a surgeon outside the hospital. She was good, he knew her personally, and she would do it for half the going rate charged by the hospital. He gave me his cellular number so that she could contact him for more information.
Last Thursday night, Bud and I went to meet her. She, too, did not attempt to put the dog on a table, but knelt beside him to verify the info she had received. She warned me that she may not be able to remove all the cancer. The lump is right beside his anus, so cutting away all the disease may be impossible. But she would do the best she could.. She told me the fee, which was 1/3 of what the hospital would charge, so I agreed. Bud will be operated on next Thursday.
He’s only a dog, I know, but as much as I hated him when I first met him, that much I love him now. He is hard-headed, independent, and as macho as they come, and he’s his own dog. He’s a pure pit-bull, with stress on the ‘BULL’, but he’s also a big-hearted, loyal, cuddly mutt; a dog with a sense of self who has won my heart. Whatever extra time I can give him, I will do so without hesitation. It’s as much for me as for him – I don’t even want to think of losing him.
Besides – I’ll get to see him waddle around in a diaper for a couple of days. That is going to hurt his dignity big-time. And he owes me this one.
But damn – I almost forgot. I’m going to have to wipe his butt twice a day to prevent infection. Bud wins again.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
BAD TIMING.
Don’t do it! If anyone asks you to go shopping for clothes after the Christmas/New Year season – refuse! Point blank. If you decide to go anyway, be prepared to face the result of your nights and days of delightful feasting on all sorts of goodies. Everything in your regular size will not fit (as opposed to being rude and describing it as ’way too tight’). DO NOT let yourself be steered towards the ‘XXL” section. Take your pride in hand, then turn around and walk out of there before the temptation to slap the obviously insincere, flattering salesperson (who keeps turning you AWAY from the mirror) overrides your sense of dignity!
The above paragraph must give you a hint as to what I was doing yesterday. Yes, Suzie and I went shopping. Wrong move. The only thing I should have been even considering would have to be a treadmill or an exercise bicycle. UGH! Thankfully the dollar store saved the day – buying household and art supplies doesn’t make one notice the 15 or so extra pounds on your butt…except if you walk every aisle in the place and get tired faster than usual from lugging around the extra weight. Even then, you can console yourself that this is the beginning of the exercise plan you swore to undertake as you were stuffing yourself with the second helping of turkey and creamy, mashed potatoes, and lots of that delicious gravy, please….Sigh! I wonder what they’ll think when I have to show up at the office in sweatpants?
I have to say that we did have a good time – as Suzie and I always do. We stopped off to see my bro, Bird, where we stayed to chat with him and Fran for a bit, then I dropped Suzie off at home and came back to my bush. I was in bed, safe in the arms of Murphy, by 7:30 PM. Wonderful! I didn’t hear a thing before 3:30 this morning. Murphy had taken his leave by that time, of course, so I made my coffee, booted up Kilroy’s blog, and then followed it by reading on my writers’ site until the sun came up. Yes, the elusive sun!!! Kilroy has been lamenting its absence, so must be very happy this morning?
I have things to do and people to see, so will get to it now. Hoping you all have a great day, and that you are SMILING while enjoying the spectacular scenery provided by Mr. Canadian Winter!
C ya later!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
The above paragraph must give you a hint as to what I was doing yesterday. Yes, Suzie and I went shopping. Wrong move. The only thing I should have been even considering would have to be a treadmill or an exercise bicycle. UGH! Thankfully the dollar store saved the day – buying household and art supplies doesn’t make one notice the 15 or so extra pounds on your butt…except if you walk every aisle in the place and get tired faster than usual from lugging around the extra weight. Even then, you can console yourself that this is the beginning of the exercise plan you swore to undertake as you were stuffing yourself with the second helping of turkey and creamy, mashed potatoes, and lots of that delicious gravy, please….Sigh! I wonder what they’ll think when I have to show up at the office in sweatpants?
I have to say that we did have a good time – as Suzie and I always do. We stopped off to see my bro, Bird, where we stayed to chat with him and Fran for a bit, then I dropped Suzie off at home and came back to my bush. I was in bed, safe in the arms of Murphy, by 7:30 PM. Wonderful! I didn’t hear a thing before 3:30 this morning. Murphy had taken his leave by that time, of course, so I made my coffee, booted up Kilroy’s blog, and then followed it by reading on my writers’ site until the sun came up. Yes, the elusive sun!!! Kilroy has been lamenting its absence, so must be very happy this morning?
I have things to do and people to see, so will get to it now. Hoping you all have a great day, and that you are SMILING while enjoying the spectacular scenery provided by Mr. Canadian Winter!
C ya later!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Friday, January 8, 2010
A REQUEST FOR HELP
Remember on my New Year’s Day post I mentioned all those messages that suddenly appeared in my Outlook? Some of them written in October? Well, there was more to it, and it only reinforces my belief that nothing is coincidence; everything happens for a reason. I explain here now, because I’m going to be asking for your help, friend readers, at the end of this post.
In the early part of last year I found a message in my Outlook from an unknown source. I immediately flushed it without reading it, because there was a nasty virus scare going around. A couple of months later, another message came in from the same source, but the subject line aroused my curiosity. There was an attachment, and I peeked to see what it was about. There I found what appeared to be a family newsletter, and as I read through it, I realized that it was a very NICE family! The newsletter was attractive, with clear pictures and well written humour and information. I could tell that whoever had created it had artistic talent. I also noticed that the writer had a daughter whose first name was the same as my own, so I supposed that this e-mail was meant for her; there had been a mix-up in address. However, it was nobody I knew, so I clicked ‘reply’ and sent it back to its origins, with a note that I had received it by error.
Among the numerous past-dated messages that suddenly appeared in my Outlook mailbox on New Year’s Day, there was one from the same couple. It was a Christmas greeting, including another newsletter, complete with pictures about their activities during the year 2009. (I was right about the artist part – one of the pictures was of the lady painting. You could see the easel, and it was quite good!). Worried that the intended recipient would miss out on this information, I decided to write back, explaining that this was not the first time, that I had enjoyed reading the newsletter, and wishing them all season’s greetings. This time I got an answer.
The lady told me that she verified her address book, and mine appeared nowhere on her list. Her daughter had received it too, so that was not the answer. She had not got my first reply, and was as curious as I was about the mystery of it all. Her response was chatty and warm. She added that she had no problem with me participating in the activities of her family and asked if I would send her a little information about myself. That was only fair – I knew so much about them now. We both decided that if this happened, it was meant to be, and our correspondence began. I have a new pen-pal!
This morning I opened my mail to find another message from her. Her husband has just come home from the hospital where he had a pacemaker installed. She fears that the medication he has been prescribed to alleviate the pain is being rejected by his system. She seemed very worried, and her words were: “If you are Christian, you might remember my husband in prayer…..if you have a prayer chain, you may put his name, Bill Ray, on it….” She signed it, Your mystery friend, and then her name.
I adhere to no specific religious group, but I do believe. I guess the term would be ‘spiritual’. I have already prayed and asked my angels to help out in anyway they should. It makes me wonder if this is what the repeated reception of her e-mails was leading up to – she was going to need our help, and the way was being prepared. Stranger things have happened.
So, my friends, whether you believe as I do or not, please humour me and add your prayers to mine, in whichever way you pray, for this nice, elderly couple. It only takes a moment. I know you will do it.
Have a good day – sending you a big, cheery SMILE with ‘Thank you’ written all over it! Send it on!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
In the early part of last year I found a message in my Outlook from an unknown source. I immediately flushed it without reading it, because there was a nasty virus scare going around. A couple of months later, another message came in from the same source, but the subject line aroused my curiosity. There was an attachment, and I peeked to see what it was about. There I found what appeared to be a family newsletter, and as I read through it, I realized that it was a very NICE family! The newsletter was attractive, with clear pictures and well written humour and information. I could tell that whoever had created it had artistic talent. I also noticed that the writer had a daughter whose first name was the same as my own, so I supposed that this e-mail was meant for her; there had been a mix-up in address. However, it was nobody I knew, so I clicked ‘reply’ and sent it back to its origins, with a note that I had received it by error.
Among the numerous past-dated messages that suddenly appeared in my Outlook mailbox on New Year’s Day, there was one from the same couple. It was a Christmas greeting, including another newsletter, complete with pictures about their activities during the year 2009. (I was right about the artist part – one of the pictures was of the lady painting. You could see the easel, and it was quite good!). Worried that the intended recipient would miss out on this information, I decided to write back, explaining that this was not the first time, that I had enjoyed reading the newsletter, and wishing them all season’s greetings. This time I got an answer.
The lady told me that she verified her address book, and mine appeared nowhere on her list. Her daughter had received it too, so that was not the answer. She had not got my first reply, and was as curious as I was about the mystery of it all. Her response was chatty and warm. She added that she had no problem with me participating in the activities of her family and asked if I would send her a little information about myself. That was only fair – I knew so much about them now. We both decided that if this happened, it was meant to be, and our correspondence began. I have a new pen-pal!
This morning I opened my mail to find another message from her. Her husband has just come home from the hospital where he had a pacemaker installed. She fears that the medication he has been prescribed to alleviate the pain is being rejected by his system. She seemed very worried, and her words were: “If you are Christian, you might remember my husband in prayer…..if you have a prayer chain, you may put his name, Bill Ray, on it….” She signed it, Your mystery friend, and then her name.
I adhere to no specific religious group, but I do believe. I guess the term would be ‘spiritual’. I have already prayed and asked my angels to help out in anyway they should. It makes me wonder if this is what the repeated reception of her e-mails was leading up to – she was going to need our help, and the way was being prepared. Stranger things have happened.
So, my friends, whether you believe as I do or not, please humour me and add your prayers to mine, in whichever way you pray, for this nice, elderly couple. It only takes a moment. I know you will do it.
Have a good day – sending you a big, cheery SMILE with ‘Thank you’ written all over it! Send it on!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
ANOTHER BIRTHDAY.
Yesterday (Jan 6th) was my bro, Bird’s birthday. In spite of my determination to take time off, I did work for most of the day, but from home, by telephone and computer. Because of this, I was able to invite Bird & Fran for a birthday supper. Bird didn’t eat much, he never does, but there was music playing, the fires on, and Fran & I sang Happy Birthday to him as he blew out his one, big candle on the cake. It was a nice evening, especially because we have been unable to do this for so long, what with my hectic schedule. The doctors told him that two years without the cancer coming back (his type, anyway) is the magic mark – and it will be that long at the end of February this year. So far, so good.
And today, January 7th, is my youngest brother’s birthday. Pody lives in NB with his family, and it’s for sure he won’t be coming here for supper, LOL, but I expect he’ll be celebrating it down in Moncton, maybe with lobster? Will give him a ring tonight and let you know tomorrow.
My only granddaughter, Erika, is starting a full time session in Sir- John-Abbott College this month. It will be the first time our small-town girl lives away from home, but she is sharing an apartment with some of her brother’s friends, so it’s not like she is a lone fledgling in the big, strange city. I’m sure she will enjoy the experience. She does very well in her studies, besides working part-time, and we’re proud of her!
My oldest pit-bull, Bud, has been diagnosed with skin cancer. Tonight is his appointment with the vet surgeon, who should be able to tell me if it’s operable or not, and what procedures need to be taken. Bud is 9 years old, which is old enough for a rock-n-roll pit, but I’m very attached to him, so I’ll do all that is feasible help him out.
I was to go to the office in Montreal today, but the girls are holding the fort quite well in my absence, so I believe I’ll just work from home again. I know I need to get some things done for the Mirabel office, but that can be done from here too. I might as well take advantage of it, because with high season starting, and Yoshiko leaving for Japan on Jan. 17th, I doubt there will be an occasion to get time off before the end of April. Even if it’s not a complete rest from the business, these last couple of days have at least given me some breathing space, and I feel better already. The cold is still in my system, but I don’t feel so fatigued, some of the energy is seeping back, and that’s a good thing. Maybe I’ll be in shape soon to challenge my friend, Kilroy, to a game of tennis, LOL!
I’ve promised that I’ll get back to blogging in here at least every second day during the year 2010. It’s only the first week, so we shall see if I’m able to keep the vow. I missed doing it, so will try my best!
Have a good day, people. I hope you have all started the New Year with a big SMILE, and that you are spending it freely! It will surely help to warm this winter’s chill!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
And today, January 7th, is my youngest brother’s birthday. Pody lives in NB with his family, and it’s for sure he won’t be coming here for supper, LOL, but I expect he’ll be celebrating it down in Moncton, maybe with lobster? Will give him a ring tonight and let you know tomorrow.
My only granddaughter, Erika, is starting a full time session in Sir- John-Abbott College this month. It will be the first time our small-town girl lives away from home, but she is sharing an apartment with some of her brother’s friends, so it’s not like she is a lone fledgling in the big, strange city. I’m sure she will enjoy the experience. She does very well in her studies, besides working part-time, and we’re proud of her!
My oldest pit-bull, Bud, has been diagnosed with skin cancer. Tonight is his appointment with the vet surgeon, who should be able to tell me if it’s operable or not, and what procedures need to be taken. Bud is 9 years old, which is old enough for a rock-n-roll pit, but I’m very attached to him, so I’ll do all that is feasible help him out.
I was to go to the office in Montreal today, but the girls are holding the fort quite well in my absence, so I believe I’ll just work from home again. I know I need to get some things done for the Mirabel office, but that can be done from here too. I might as well take advantage of it, because with high season starting, and Yoshiko leaving for Japan on Jan. 17th, I doubt there will be an occasion to get time off before the end of April. Even if it’s not a complete rest from the business, these last couple of days have at least given me some breathing space, and I feel better already. The cold is still in my system, but I don’t feel so fatigued, some of the energy is seeping back, and that’s a good thing. Maybe I’ll be in shape soon to challenge my friend, Kilroy, to a game of tennis, LOL!
I’ve promised that I’ll get back to blogging in here at least every second day during the year 2010. It’s only the first week, so we shall see if I’m able to keep the vow. I missed doing it, so will try my best!
Have a good day, people. I hope you have all started the New Year with a big SMILE, and that you are spending it freely! It will surely help to warm this winter’s chill!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
SUZIE, ME & TEQUILA
Boy, was I out to lunch in my last post here. There was no Habs game Saturday; it was on Sunday and started at 3 PM instead of 5 PM. Maybe the players were hung over too,because they skated rather lazily, and lost. Not that I could fully concentrate on my ‘living room couch coaching’ ability. I had headed up to Suzie’s earlier than planned the night before, and we managed to empty that whole bottle of tequila between the two of us – that’s in shooters with beer chasers!! Heinz was my designated driver. I don’t remember calling him to come for me, and I’m not sure that I even recall his arrival, nor the drive home. He tells me we were dancing the flamingo, and alternately singing and laughing at the top of our lungs when he walked in, the music at full tilt – just the 2 of us – Suzie & me. I do remember that my daughter came to join us for an hour or so, but she was sober, not quite on our wave length, so she hightailed it out of there. LMAO!
I was expecting to feel groggy the next day, of course. But I was also smiling inside. Suzie & I do this once or twice a year, and it always seems to work as a much needed ‘time-out’ in my head. We don’t go anywhere; just stay at her place, the two of us, and there’s a lot of giggling, sometimes crying, much loud music and dancing, and just….FUN! No one else sticks around for long - we’re too foolish. It’s like a mini-vacation.
Sunday I read, did some writing, relaxed with the hockey game, and drank gallons of water. By Monday I was back in the office, but had already decided that I badly needed a couple of days off. I contacted my associates to warn them. High season will be starting in a couple of weeks (yep, tax time again!) and, if I want to be able to handle it, some vacation time was necessary. I’ll be there Thursday, but today, tomorrow, and Friday are all mine. I’m going to play outside with my doggies, do some writing and reading, sleep when I feel like it, and just chill out. I’m sure my friend, Kilroy, is proud of me!
Speaking of sleep, I’m heading for an afternoon nap right now. The pits are already curled up by the fireplace, the bush is quiet in its layers of snow, and dreamland awaits. Ah, but life is good, and I’m SMILING!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
I was expecting to feel groggy the next day, of course. But I was also smiling inside. Suzie & I do this once or twice a year, and it always seems to work as a much needed ‘time-out’ in my head. We don’t go anywhere; just stay at her place, the two of us, and there’s a lot of giggling, sometimes crying, much loud music and dancing, and just….FUN! No one else sticks around for long - we’re too foolish. It’s like a mini-vacation.
Sunday I read, did some writing, relaxed with the hockey game, and drank gallons of water. By Monday I was back in the office, but had already decided that I badly needed a couple of days off. I contacted my associates to warn them. High season will be starting in a couple of weeks (yep, tax time again!) and, if I want to be able to handle it, some vacation time was necessary. I’ll be there Thursday, but today, tomorrow, and Friday are all mine. I’m going to play outside with my doggies, do some writing and reading, sleep when I feel like it, and just chill out. I’m sure my friend, Kilroy, is proud of me!
Speaking of sleep, I’m heading for an afternoon nap right now. The pits are already curled up by the fireplace, the bush is quiet in its layers of snow, and dreamland awaits. Ah, but life is good, and I’m SMILING!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
Saturday, January 2, 2010
ON THE SECOND DAY OF NEW YEAR....
One of my favourite writers from the author’s site I have joined e-mailed me a complete story she had written, and I was looking forward to receiving and reading it. She sent it on Dec 27th, but it was still not in my mail-box. I was thinking of calling Sympatico.ca to complain, but it was New Year’s Day, and I really didn’t feel like losing a couple of hours on the phone, trying to understand broken English. Who needs that kind of frustration to begin the year? I decided to play with the ‘tools’ tab in Outlook (my mailbox) and, although not at all electronically talented, did something right. I think. Or maybe the dudes working at the main server switched on a lever during the night. Whatever happened, I not only received her story, but also 53 e-mails from various contacts...some of them written in October!!! I was flabbergasted! And very, very happy. Needless to say, I spent most of the second morning of 2010 reading and laughing (a lot of them were jokes) which, next to hockey, is my ‘cup of tea’.
I had planned to go shopping this afternoon but, due to all the time I spent on the computer, this did not happen. There is a Hab’s game staring at 5 PM, which I don’t want to miss, and then I am to go to Suzie’s house and celebrate her birthday (happening at midnight) with tequila... I need to find a designated driver, or sleep over at Suzie’s. I’d prefer the former, because I expect to be in the throes of a hangover tomorrow, and my own bed is where I’ll want to be. Do I sound like a glutton for punishment? Not really. A conversation with my friend this morning set my mind whirling. His words stung. The events of the past year, both at home and in business, HAVE turned me into a lady far too serious, too tense and not much fun anymore. Even when very tired, I didn’t usually have to force my smile. It appears all too infrequently at the present – a classic sign of burnout. Anyone who knows Suzie can vouch that her character, and our joint shenanigans, are a good staring point for the antidote to this flaw….so tonight I’m gonna let it all hang out! At least my groaning tomorrow will be for the right reasons, LOL!
My wise friend, Kilroy, was frank with his comment on my latest post. And, as usual, he was also right. Sometimes we lose sight of our needs, and tend to stubbornly look to the muddle inside for a solution, instead of accepting advice from those who care, who can be objective, and who are far clearer about what is required. Breaking habits is difficult. Every now and then we need a gentle nudge from a loving friend. Thank you, Kilroy!
Time to go – the Habs will be on the ice in moments. If I don’t write tomorrow, know that I am suffering…but with a SMILE!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
I had planned to go shopping this afternoon but, due to all the time I spent on the computer, this did not happen. There is a Hab’s game staring at 5 PM, which I don’t want to miss, and then I am to go to Suzie’s house and celebrate her birthday (happening at midnight) with tequila... I need to find a designated driver, or sleep over at Suzie’s. I’d prefer the former, because I expect to be in the throes of a hangover tomorrow, and my own bed is where I’ll want to be. Do I sound like a glutton for punishment? Not really. A conversation with my friend this morning set my mind whirling. His words stung. The events of the past year, both at home and in business, HAVE turned me into a lady far too serious, too tense and not much fun anymore. Even when very tired, I didn’t usually have to force my smile. It appears all too infrequently at the present – a classic sign of burnout. Anyone who knows Suzie can vouch that her character, and our joint shenanigans, are a good staring point for the antidote to this flaw….so tonight I’m gonna let it all hang out! At least my groaning tomorrow will be for the right reasons, LOL!
My wise friend, Kilroy, was frank with his comment on my latest post. And, as usual, he was also right. Sometimes we lose sight of our needs, and tend to stubbornly look to the muddle inside for a solution, instead of accepting advice from those who care, who can be objective, and who are far clearer about what is required. Breaking habits is difficult. Every now and then we need a gentle nudge from a loving friend. Thank you, Kilroy!
Time to go – the Habs will be on the ice in moments. If I don’t write tomorrow, know that I am suffering…but with a SMILE!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
Friday, January 1, 2010
The New Year
Ahhh...a new year. I stand, gazing out my window, steaming coffee in hand, and watch the snow fall steadily on my mountain. Beautiful!
The electricity had gone off, but at least the coffee was already brewed. I hoped it would come back on quickly – I hadn’t read Kilroy’s blog yet, an important part of my morning routine. Was this an omen? 2010 is going to force me to change my routines? Ugh! I know some things need to change, but I want to be the one in charge of that – no help required from outside sources, thank you very much!
I spent the last day of 2009 working until 2 PM, then came home and snoozed for an hour. My energy level is extremely low, probably due to the cold/flu bug which is still harassing my body’s system. I was up in time for the hockey game, of course. After watching our Habs win again, I reluctantly dressed to go out, all the while keeping one eye on the Canada-USA juniors (Canada won that one too!!). Suzie has arrived from Detroit, and I had promised to meet her for a “Ringing-in 2010” party. I kept my promise, albeit I arrived quite late, and left very early. I was back home by 11:30, and welcomed the New Year by sitting quietly by the fire with Heinz and the doggies, lifting a glass of wine in salute, and munching on Oka cheese – a stinky beginning, LOL!
I know the kids will be calling (my daughter has already) to extend their best wishes, and my brother & niece intend to drop by later today too. The power is back on (or you wouldn’t be reading this!), and on the first day of the New Year, so far, peace reigns in the bush.
And I’m heading back to my comfy bed for a couple of hours – it’s called catch-up – while the going is good. I want to wish you all a happy, healthy, prosperous year for 2010. And for those suffering at the moment (my thoughts especially to soldiers and their families), I pray that healing will not be tardy, and that your memories of loved ones sustain you until you can once again SMILE.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
The electricity had gone off, but at least the coffee was already brewed. I hoped it would come back on quickly – I hadn’t read Kilroy’s blog yet, an important part of my morning routine. Was this an omen? 2010 is going to force me to change my routines? Ugh! I know some things need to change, but I want to be the one in charge of that – no help required from outside sources, thank you very much!
I spent the last day of 2009 working until 2 PM, then came home and snoozed for an hour. My energy level is extremely low, probably due to the cold/flu bug which is still harassing my body’s system. I was up in time for the hockey game, of course. After watching our Habs win again, I reluctantly dressed to go out, all the while keeping one eye on the Canada-USA juniors (Canada won that one too!!). Suzie has arrived from Detroit, and I had promised to meet her for a “Ringing-in 2010” party. I kept my promise, albeit I arrived quite late, and left very early. I was back home by 11:30, and welcomed the New Year by sitting quietly by the fire with Heinz and the doggies, lifting a glass of wine in salute, and munching on Oka cheese – a stinky beginning, LOL!
I know the kids will be calling (my daughter has already) to extend their best wishes, and my brother & niece intend to drop by later today too. The power is back on (or you wouldn’t be reading this!), and on the first day of the New Year, so far, peace reigns in the bush.
And I’m heading back to my comfy bed for a couple of hours – it’s called catch-up – while the going is good. I want to wish you all a happy, healthy, prosperous year for 2010. And for those suffering at the moment (my thoughts especially to soldiers and their families), I pray that healing will not be tardy, and that your memories of loved ones sustain you until you can once again SMILE.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
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