Sunday night, when the commotion was going on, I managed to send a Facebook message to Line, warning her that it was already 2 AM, that I didn’t expect to sleep much, that I would not be at the office before noon. Contrary to her morning routine, Line didn’t open her Facebook, so she was one of the MANY who called me around 8:30 AM. I had been in bed all of 3 hours. My mind was too full to allow more snoozing, however, so I got up and drove to the office. There were things that required my attention, and it was better than sitting at home and moping.
The girls told me they liked the haircut, and my daughter also gave her approval when I saw her later in the day. Her home is the ‘drop-off’ place for people in the area who need to give me papers but don’t want the drive out to the bush. I had stopped on my way from work, and she admired the ‘coiffure’ while we sat chatting. It was a short visit; by that time I was dragging butt and was so looking forward to getting back to my own house and making it an early night.
Suzie’s sister reached me on my cellular as I covered the last miles. She will be driving to Detroit with me on Thursday, and we hadn’t spoke, except through Suzie’s many calls, to confirm the travel arrangements. Poor girl was beginning to wonder if I really wanted her along or not, LOL! I told her I’d have shown up at her house at 4 AM Thursday morning, honked the horn outside, and yelled ‘All Aboard!’
With that settled, I fielded a couple of more phone calls, one of which was my brother. As I had guessed, his missing the appointment for the lung scan means that today there will be no hospital. He does have to return tomorrow for the results of his biopsy, so this will be my last day at the office before my vacation. I have absolutely nothing ready for this trip – there was no time to shop, to pack….so these next two days are going to be a hustle. Last night was impossible to try preparing anything– I was sleepwalking by 9:30 PM.
Bud woke me at 3:30 AM. His breathing was not good; he was in pain. I’ve given him his medication and he’s resting easier now. There’s some work I can do before leaving for the office this morning, so I’ll get to it. Man, I’m really, REALLY looking forward to the time off!!
Have a good one, folks. It’s to be sunny here; very warm, but one of our few days of summer left, so no complaints from yours truly. After my 6 hours of uninterrupted time spent in the arms of Morpheus, I’m SMILING! Sending it your way!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
THE INVASION
It was a bright afternoon when disaster stuck. Bring nocturnal creatures, they were not prepared for the rude invasion. Suddenly their homes were swept away. In panic they scattered, running in fright every which way; feeling themselves being lifted, swayed, then thrown to the ground. Fortunately, their agility served them well, and immediately on landing they scurried with haste to find hiding places. Each was successful. They would live to work another day.
The above paragraph is what was running through my mind as I prepared to wash my windows today. The creatures were the numerous spiders I removed (true, rather rudely) with a broom before using the spray and the squeegee. I use a broom rather than a vacuum because I don’t want to kill them; I just wanted them out of the way so I can get the job done. Contrary to most women I know, spiders don’t frighten me. Industrious little creatures, their pest control abilities are nothing to laugh at. I very rarely am bothered by pesky mosquitoes or flies while sitting on my gallery swing. Besides, I can spend hours admiring their work, fascinated as I watch them spin their intricate webs.
The windows stayed clear until the sun went down and then, sure enough, the spiders got busy. The top corners of each window are now sporting a new delicate, but deadly, design. Beware, pesky pests!!!
I also did all my floors on this beautiful sunny day. Tonight, events brought me visitors who walked all over those nice shiny, wooden floors without removing their boots. So much for those two hours of labour! They were, however, the kind of visitors that one does not ask to remove their footwear on entering and, sad to say, they were most welcome. But that’s another story. It’s also the reason that it is 3:30 AM and I haven’t yet had a moment of sleep. The emotional turmoil the visitors left behind does not bode well for Morpheus’ tonight. I’m pretty certain he won’t show up at all.
Ah, well. Everything happens for a reason. I do hope, however, that you are all snoozing comfortably at this moment. Or, if not, having a warm cup of milk to help you do so. Maybe tomorrow, if you read my post, my concern for those little spiders will make you SMILE. Seeing how quickly the new webs went up did it for me.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
The above paragraph is what was running through my mind as I prepared to wash my windows today. The creatures were the numerous spiders I removed (true, rather rudely) with a broom before using the spray and the squeegee. I use a broom rather than a vacuum because I don’t want to kill them; I just wanted them out of the way so I can get the job done. Contrary to most women I know, spiders don’t frighten me. Industrious little creatures, their pest control abilities are nothing to laugh at. I very rarely am bothered by pesky mosquitoes or flies while sitting on my gallery swing. Besides, I can spend hours admiring their work, fascinated as I watch them spin their intricate webs.
The windows stayed clear until the sun went down and then, sure enough, the spiders got busy. The top corners of each window are now sporting a new delicate, but deadly, design. Beware, pesky pests!!!
I also did all my floors on this beautiful sunny day. Tonight, events brought me visitors who walked all over those nice shiny, wooden floors without removing their boots. So much for those two hours of labour! They were, however, the kind of visitors that one does not ask to remove their footwear on entering and, sad to say, they were most welcome. But that’s another story. It’s also the reason that it is 3:30 AM and I haven’t yet had a moment of sleep. The emotional turmoil the visitors left behind does not bode well for Morpheus’ tonight. I’m pretty certain he won’t show up at all.
Ah, well. Everything happens for a reason. I do hope, however, that you are all snoozing comfortably at this moment. Or, if not, having a warm cup of milk to help you do so. Maybe tomorrow, if you read my post, my concern for those little spiders will make you SMILE. Seeing how quickly the new webs went up did it for me.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
THE PORCUPINE STRIKES AGAIN!
I wanted to show you all a picture of the beautiful Louka, the neighbour’s husky-wolf who spends much of her time here playing with Grump, and trying to ignore that our macho Bud ignores her. I can’t find the wire thingy that transfers photos from camera to computer. There have been many cellular phones in and out of this house in the past years, so I have numerous wire thingies lying around, but not one of them fit the bill. It looks like I’ll be shopping in electronics. I wonder how you translate wire thingy into French?
I would wait and hunt for it when I have more time, but my granddaughter posed with the little lads when we celebrated the birthday last weekend. She’s been asking me to put them up on Facebook. It’s a rare occasion when Peanut (our pet name for granddaughter) asks for something; so M’mère will rush to oblige…especially for that reason. This child of my daughter’s has been working since she was twelve. First it was babysitting, then serving behind snack bars, now a cashier at the IGA. She’s attending university, so her mom helps to pay for the apartment she shares with other students, but Peanut pays the rest of the expenses herself. She’ll be 18 next week, and her mom is throwing her a huge party to celebrate. M’Mère will arrive back from Detroit just in time to attend – there’s no way I want to miss it. I can’t remember if I mentioned that she’s the only female of the six grandchildren; the other five are boys.
But back to Louka – she showed up with porcupine quills in her nose again today. I texted her master to warn him. He came home, and I heard him whistle for her…then the yelps of pain. Oof! I shivered with each cry, poor girl. She showed up later for supper with her nose clean, quill free, and seemed none the worse for her 2nd experience. I hope she has learned her lesson, but, like humans, some dogs just never do get it.
I did make it to the hairdresser this morning, and walked out of there a new woman, in looks anyway. I decided on the spur of the moment to have her cut my hair short. I fear it is going to take me some time to get used to it. All day I didn’t see another soul who knows me, so have had no comments for or against. I expect the first person I’ll see is the fellow who is coming tomorrow to check out the hot water tank. Although he is a friend, he is also male, so probably won’t even notice. I guess the verdict will be rendered only on Monday when I get to the office, unless I drop by my daughter’s house tomorrow night. A good idea; she’s very blunt about things like that, so I’ll know if I should wear a hat, or invest in a wig, until the hair grows again, LOL.
Bedtime. Jacuzzi first. Off I go. Sweet dreams, folks – they’ll make you SMILE in your sleep!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
I would wait and hunt for it when I have more time, but my granddaughter posed with the little lads when we celebrated the birthday last weekend. She’s been asking me to put them up on Facebook. It’s a rare occasion when Peanut (our pet name for granddaughter) asks for something; so M’mère will rush to oblige…especially for that reason. This child of my daughter’s has been working since she was twelve. First it was babysitting, then serving behind snack bars, now a cashier at the IGA. She’s attending university, so her mom helps to pay for the apartment she shares with other students, but Peanut pays the rest of the expenses herself. She’ll be 18 next week, and her mom is throwing her a huge party to celebrate. M’Mère will arrive back from Detroit just in time to attend – there’s no way I want to miss it. I can’t remember if I mentioned that she’s the only female of the six grandchildren; the other five are boys.
But back to Louka – she showed up with porcupine quills in her nose again today. I texted her master to warn him. He came home, and I heard him whistle for her…then the yelps of pain. Oof! I shivered with each cry, poor girl. She showed up later for supper with her nose clean, quill free, and seemed none the worse for her 2nd experience. I hope she has learned her lesson, but, like humans, some dogs just never do get it.
I did make it to the hairdresser this morning, and walked out of there a new woman, in looks anyway. I decided on the spur of the moment to have her cut my hair short. I fear it is going to take me some time to get used to it. All day I didn’t see another soul who knows me, so have had no comments for or against. I expect the first person I’ll see is the fellow who is coming tomorrow to check out the hot water tank. Although he is a friend, he is also male, so probably won’t even notice. I guess the verdict will be rendered only on Monday when I get to the office, unless I drop by my daughter’s house tomorrow night. A good idea; she’s very blunt about things like that, so I’ll know if I should wear a hat, or invest in a wig, until the hair grows again, LOL.
Bedtime. Jacuzzi first. Off I go. Sweet dreams, folks – they’ll make you SMILE in your sleep!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
OOPS!
When you hear ‘22nd’ over the phone, it can sound much like ‘27th’, especially if the 22nd is a Sunday, and you don’t realize that scans are done on the weekends. That is what happened. My brother and I arrived at the hospital to find that he was supposed to be there last Sunday at 3:30, not yesterday at 3:00. Bummer! It took us 2 ½ hours to get back home in the Friday rush hour. Fortunately it was nice weather, and we enjoy each other’s company. Besides, there was no use getting upset. The damage was done and absolutely nothing could be done about it. It means that he won’t be getting his results next Wednesday, so I’ll be able to work the day before leaving for Detroit…unless they reschedule his scan for that date. We wait and see.
After I dropped my brother at home, I couldn’t resist stopping by to see my three little rug rats. Nalou will have his very first day of school next Wednesday. His new backpack (what they use for schoolbags now), and other kindergarten supplies are bought and waiting. Much to our amusement, his mommy discovered that Nalou believes in planning ahead; he had already put a sandwich in his lunchbox, figuring that it would be one less thing to worry about when the big day arrived, LOL. His eyes were like saucers when M’mere told him the sandwich would jump out and run away on him if he waited until Wednesday to open the box. I can picture him sitting down in the school cafeteria, then opening the lid just a bit and peering in to make sure his lunch isn’t moving….
Although I have to take time out for the hairdresser (finally), most of today will be spent catching up on work I wasn’t able to do yesterday, and some housecleaning. I also have someone coming in later to look at my hot water tank. It keeps turning off. I’ve had to hit the reset button 4 times this week – not a good sign. There must be a short somewhere…I hope. The last thing I need right now is to have the added expense of a new tank.
It’s a sure thing that I won’t get much done by sitting here blogging, so I’ll wish you all a good day, send you my SMILE, and get on with it. We learn something new everyday, so here’s hoping whatever we learn today is pleasant!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
After I dropped my brother at home, I couldn’t resist stopping by to see my three little rug rats. Nalou will have his very first day of school next Wednesday. His new backpack (what they use for schoolbags now), and other kindergarten supplies are bought and waiting. Much to our amusement, his mommy discovered that Nalou believes in planning ahead; he had already put a sandwich in his lunchbox, figuring that it would be one less thing to worry about when the big day arrived, LOL. His eyes were like saucers when M’mere told him the sandwich would jump out and run away on him if he waited until Wednesday to open the box. I can picture him sitting down in the school cafeteria, then opening the lid just a bit and peering in to make sure his lunch isn’t moving….
Although I have to take time out for the hairdresser (finally), most of today will be spent catching up on work I wasn’t able to do yesterday, and some housecleaning. I also have someone coming in later to look at my hot water tank. It keeps turning off. I’ve had to hit the reset button 4 times this week – not a good sign. There must be a short somewhere…I hope. The last thing I need right now is to have the added expense of a new tank.
It’s a sure thing that I won’t get much done by sitting here blogging, so I’ll wish you all a good day, send you my SMILE, and get on with it. We learn something new everyday, so here’s hoping whatever we learn today is pleasant!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Friday, August 27, 2010
ASSERTING ONESELF!
I’m working from home this morning. My brother, Bird, has to be at the clinic later today for a lung scan, and driving into and out of the city twice in one day is time consuming, and costly (gas). Once again I am thankful that my little computer dude was able to connect my home outfit to the office server – I’ll only make the trip once.
I have plans to leave for Detroit next Thursday, spend the long weekend with Suzie, then make the return drive on the following Tuesday. As usually happens when I schedule days off, events occur making it nearly impossible to take them without feeling harassed or guilty. This time the hospital decided to participate; they called last week and gave my brother two appointments. One is on Tuesday, for the results of a biopsy (from a lump on his tongue); then another on Wednesday, for the results of the lung scan. He requested that both be done on the same day, but no, it’s not possible. Because the clinic is in the city, it involves distance, waiting rooms, and rush hour traffic. Each appointment takes up nearly a full day, so it means no office work will be possible.
To further complicate matters, one of our clients called yesterday, panicking because the government is now on his doorstep. Although we had warned him more than once that delays will only be tolerated for so long, he, like many owners of small businesses tend to do, decided that his hands-on jobs were more important than paperwork. Now he’s in trouble, and turning to us to get him out of it. We will; that’s part of our service, but it requires dropping everything else to handle the tons of documents. It also needs to be done quickly, and we’re already short-staffed; the employees return in mid-September.
Not so long ago, I would have cancelled my vacation to stay and take care of the problem. I eventually realized that, by doing this, I was never getting my much-needed holidays. The consequences were inevitable. I paid for it, both physically and emotionally.
Will I change my plans? Nope! The doggie caretaker is organised, Suzie’s sister (who is coming with me) has scheduled her days off and, most of all, I have sworn to myself that never again will I let myself be brought to my knees because of work. Anyway, it defeats the purpose. The short, but necessary, vacation is far less harmful that the climb back up the hill needed after running yourself ragged.
How’s that for asserting myself? I can feel an invisible hand patting my back with approval. It must belong to Kilroy – he’s been telling me for years to smarten up, LOL.
I’m not on vacation yet though. My break is over so I’ll get back to the numbers and phones. Hoping your day is interesting and fun; sending you a SMILE to help it along!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
I have plans to leave for Detroit next Thursday, spend the long weekend with Suzie, then make the return drive on the following Tuesday. As usually happens when I schedule days off, events occur making it nearly impossible to take them without feeling harassed or guilty. This time the hospital decided to participate; they called last week and gave my brother two appointments. One is on Tuesday, for the results of a biopsy (from a lump on his tongue); then another on Wednesday, for the results of the lung scan. He requested that both be done on the same day, but no, it’s not possible. Because the clinic is in the city, it involves distance, waiting rooms, and rush hour traffic. Each appointment takes up nearly a full day, so it means no office work will be possible.
To further complicate matters, one of our clients called yesterday, panicking because the government is now on his doorstep. Although we had warned him more than once that delays will only be tolerated for so long, he, like many owners of small businesses tend to do, decided that his hands-on jobs were more important than paperwork. Now he’s in trouble, and turning to us to get him out of it. We will; that’s part of our service, but it requires dropping everything else to handle the tons of documents. It also needs to be done quickly, and we’re already short-staffed; the employees return in mid-September.
Not so long ago, I would have cancelled my vacation to stay and take care of the problem. I eventually realized that, by doing this, I was never getting my much-needed holidays. The consequences were inevitable. I paid for it, both physically and emotionally.
Will I change my plans? Nope! The doggie caretaker is organised, Suzie’s sister (who is coming with me) has scheduled her days off and, most of all, I have sworn to myself that never again will I let myself be brought to my knees because of work. Anyway, it defeats the purpose. The short, but necessary, vacation is far less harmful that the climb back up the hill needed after running yourself ragged.
How’s that for asserting myself? I can feel an invisible hand patting my back with approval. It must belong to Kilroy – he’s been telling me for years to smarten up, LOL.
I’m not on vacation yet though. My break is over so I’ll get back to the numbers and phones. Hoping your day is interesting and fun; sending you a SMILE to help it along!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
THE MEETING
It was one of those moments. I got up from my chair in the conference room and went quickly into my office, ducking my head as I passed the stagiare. Once there I tried hard to focus on counting to ten to keep the tears from coming. My efforts were successful, but only just. I managed to blink away what was already there, and to stem the flow before it went any further. As I get older, I seem to cry more easily. Deep emotion, either sad or happy, will start it off. When it happens to him, my friend, Kilroy, calls it being ‘Momonne’, slang Quebecois word for cry-baby, LOL. I think it may be because we allow ourselves to feel more; we’ve graduated to that place where sincerity outweighs pride. Whatever it is, I still didn’t want the others to see it. I’m pretty sure they noticed anyway.
I had asked the employees to attend the meeting because the temporary lay-off period was coming to an end. Everyone was due back to work by September 7th. The dilemma is that, although Line and I have been doing our best, we can only accomplish so much. My associate has not yet solved his problem, so the promised reimbursement has still not happened. I needed to give them their options; a) plan on staying on unemployment benefits; or b) look for another job.
They suggested, and decided, to take option c); come to work and help us build up the company, taking whatever pay I could give them at the end of each week and banking the rest of their hours for later if things work out. This in spite of my warning that if my associate fails completely, and/or things don’t work out, I couldn’t even confirm payment of the banked hours. Their response was, okay, understood, but if their plan is successful, a bonus will be included when they actually do get paid.
What does it say about the employees? I don’t even have to write it, do I? I guess I don’t have to tell you what kind of relationship there is between employer and employees either. They have confidence in themselves and their ability to work with us to turn things around. What threatened to bring the tears was their proclamation that they have enormous confidence in me. Yep – that’s when I became a ‘momonne’.
Tuesday night Line came up north with me. Our nurse, the third person of our ‘home-away-from-home’ trio served us supper (cannelloni, yum!), as we discussed the various steps still needed to open our first house for seniors. The return of the employees is going to make it so much easier time-wise. Besides, they are as excited about it as we are, promising to help in any way they can.
All that said and done, I need to get my butt in gear and do some work now. I’ve started once again to stuff my briefcase with files each evening. My computer dude’s installation of the new system has reconnected my home office to the business server, finally enabling me to avoid some of the rush hour traffic.
Have a good day, folks! Needless to tell you I’m all SMILES, and they’re headed your way!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
I had asked the employees to attend the meeting because the temporary lay-off period was coming to an end. Everyone was due back to work by September 7th. The dilemma is that, although Line and I have been doing our best, we can only accomplish so much. My associate has not yet solved his problem, so the promised reimbursement has still not happened. I needed to give them their options; a) plan on staying on unemployment benefits; or b) look for another job.
They suggested, and decided, to take option c); come to work and help us build up the company, taking whatever pay I could give them at the end of each week and banking the rest of their hours for later if things work out. This in spite of my warning that if my associate fails completely, and/or things don’t work out, I couldn’t even confirm payment of the banked hours. Their response was, okay, understood, but if their plan is successful, a bonus will be included when they actually do get paid.
What does it say about the employees? I don’t even have to write it, do I? I guess I don’t have to tell you what kind of relationship there is between employer and employees either. They have confidence in themselves and their ability to work with us to turn things around. What threatened to bring the tears was their proclamation that they have enormous confidence in me. Yep – that’s when I became a ‘momonne’.
Tuesday night Line came up north with me. Our nurse, the third person of our ‘home-away-from-home’ trio served us supper (cannelloni, yum!), as we discussed the various steps still needed to open our first house for seniors. The return of the employees is going to make it so much easier time-wise. Besides, they are as excited about it as we are, promising to help in any way they can.
All that said and done, I need to get my butt in gear and do some work now. I’ve started once again to stuff my briefcase with files each evening. My computer dude’s installation of the new system has reconnected my home office to the business server, finally enabling me to avoid some of the rush hour traffic.
Have a good day, folks! Needless to tell you I’m all SMILES, and they’re headed your way!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Monday, August 23, 2010
THE STAGIAIRE'S ABSENCE
The stagiare was there today. Her reason for not coming in was valid. For not calling in? A lack of experience.
Last Wednesday night her younger, 18 year old sister was crossing the street, 5 minutes away from home, and she was stuck by a hit-and-run driver. The girl is in an induced coma while they repair the broken bones in her arm and legs; she also has head trauma. Of course I understand C.’s feelings; it’s a frightful thing to go through. However, it would take one minute to call and warn us, or leave a message, and I know she had the opportunity to do so during the 4 past days. I’m sure she also thought about it, but, being young, decided that this was serious enough to absolve her of her personal responsibilities. Then again, that is why the students do temp-work before graduation – to learn how it is in the real world. Both the school supervisor and I, each in our own way, explained to her that, yes, it was a terrible thing, and no-one could fault her for not coming to work, but you need to advise your employer. She’s a very quick study; her reaction told me she understands.
It shows the kids are back in school – at least the CJEP (Quebec College) and universities are. Traffic is back to normal, aka super slow. Even leaving a little earlier from the office didn’t help. It was a 2 hour drive home. Accidents and stalls added to the construction…UGH! I have to get used to it all over again. With a good vehicle, and a funky sound system, it isn’t all that bad, until you begin counting how many hours per day you are sitting waiting…inching ahead…waiting…inching ahead…waiting, and today mine added up to 3 ¾ hours. Friday it was a total of 5 hours, the in and out of the city. Let’s see, what else could I be doing during those 5 hours? If you add it on to an 8 hour work day, you are away from house (and the doggies) for 13 hours!!! That’s a trip to Vancouver and back, isn’t it? Obviously it’s time to change the starting and finishing times – like, do your driving when the traffic is lightest. Yes. Working on it.
Because it is so late, I took a very short walk with the doggies. We wandered down to the apple tree, and I picked one to munch on for our return to the house. I like the tart, sweet taste of a Macintosh fresh off the tree. By the end of the month they’ll have ripened perfectly, and I’ll have another excuse to invite the grandchildren over, LOL!
Bud is doing better after his confined rest inside all day, so I’m hoping for a nice, long, uninterrupted sleep tonight. I could use it!
Have a good night y’all, and if you catch sight of a SMILING face in your dreams, it may very well be mine!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Last Wednesday night her younger, 18 year old sister was crossing the street, 5 minutes away from home, and she was stuck by a hit-and-run driver. The girl is in an induced coma while they repair the broken bones in her arm and legs; she also has head trauma. Of course I understand C.’s feelings; it’s a frightful thing to go through. However, it would take one minute to call and warn us, or leave a message, and I know she had the opportunity to do so during the 4 past days. I’m sure she also thought about it, but, being young, decided that this was serious enough to absolve her of her personal responsibilities. Then again, that is why the students do temp-work before graduation – to learn how it is in the real world. Both the school supervisor and I, each in our own way, explained to her that, yes, it was a terrible thing, and no-one could fault her for not coming to work, but you need to advise your employer. She’s a very quick study; her reaction told me she understands.
It shows the kids are back in school – at least the CJEP (Quebec College) and universities are. Traffic is back to normal, aka super slow. Even leaving a little earlier from the office didn’t help. It was a 2 hour drive home. Accidents and stalls added to the construction…UGH! I have to get used to it all over again. With a good vehicle, and a funky sound system, it isn’t all that bad, until you begin counting how many hours per day you are sitting waiting…inching ahead…waiting…inching ahead…waiting, and today mine added up to 3 ¾ hours. Friday it was a total of 5 hours, the in and out of the city. Let’s see, what else could I be doing during those 5 hours? If you add it on to an 8 hour work day, you are away from house (and the doggies) for 13 hours!!! That’s a trip to Vancouver and back, isn’t it? Obviously it’s time to change the starting and finishing times – like, do your driving when the traffic is lightest. Yes. Working on it.
Because it is so late, I took a very short walk with the doggies. We wandered down to the apple tree, and I picked one to munch on for our return to the house. I like the tart, sweet taste of a Macintosh fresh off the tree. By the end of the month they’ll have ripened perfectly, and I’ll have another excuse to invite the grandchildren over, LOL!
Bud is doing better after his confined rest inside all day, so I’m hoping for a nice, long, uninterrupted sleep tonight. I could use it!
Have a good night y’all, and if you catch sight of a SMILING face in your dreams, it may very well be mine!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
THOSE SPECIAL TIMES
A huge house should be full of love and laughter and, in my book, nothing can quite complete the picture without little ones running around; distributing hugs and kisses to grandparents and auntie and uncles; discovering new places to hide, and yes, getting into some tussling and light mischief as little ones tend to do. After reading that long sentence, I don’t have to tell you my daughter-in-law’s birthday was a fun-time yesterday. In spite of the rain, the BBQ happened, thanks to a covered gallery and my youngest son, our ‘Chef’, who is also the daddy of our three young entertainers. Um – we’ll make that two entertainers; the baby is only 10 weeks old, so the kisses were bestowed, but his running around has not yet begun. Then again, his cooing and gurgling smiles are not to be discounted; so it is three entertainers after all.
My oldest son and his wife arrived early, determined to miss the traffic occasioned by construction on the bridges to and from the city. One of his army buddies was with them. The two men, using the back-hoe (much to the doggies’ delight), worked on building stone steps to access my basement apartment. Men and dogs were soaked by the time they stopped, but the result is very well done and pleasing to the eye indeed!
Yoshiko, my son’s wife, helped me prepare the potato salad, then ran last minute errands before the rest of the family showed up. Then it was chatting, and teasing, and giggling, as we filled our faces. My oldest grandson stopped in for awhile before leaving to play hockey, and my soon-to-be 18 year old granddaughter brought a pretty young friend with her. It didn’t take the uncles long to realize that the pretty friend and the grandson had something going on, so the teasing went up a notch. Young Bali, our energizer-powered 3 year old, helped his mom blow out the candles on her chocolate birthday cake, then immediately thrust his chubby little finger deep into the icing before M’mère could whip it out of reach, LOL!
My daughter and Yo gathered up and did most of the dishes; the youngest of the clan was being nursed by the birthday mommy; my granddaughter and pretty friend watched over the little lads who were playing in the Jacuzzi. It’s how we end most of our family gatherings here at home. I bagged and distributed the remainder of fresh corn from the huge sack, then the three doggies and I stood and threw airy kisses and waved as they drove down the driveway and away.
It’s evident that I relish the days spent surrounded by my family. I really can’t think of anything better. I bask in the glow of it all until it’s time for the next gathering, which will happily be more often with the arrival of fall (most of my grandchildren have birthdays then), then the Christmas holiday season.
The only blight yesterday was Bud being very, very sore after all his playing. I was up more than once during the night, giving him medication and cuddling to diminish the pain. We finally fell to sleep around 4:30 AM. It would probably be easier to keep him quiet by shutting him away from all the excitement, but I know he would absolutely HATE that. I wouldn’t want anyone to do it to me if I was in his condition, so I sure won’t do it to him.
I have a major clean-up to do now, so will get to it. It’s still raining outside, which makes it easier to stay in, turn up the music, and get the work done.
I hope you are all having a nice weekend. I’m rounding off my good time by sending you a cheerful SMILE – one soaked in the love and delight left over from a wonderful day with my family. I’m sure you’ll feel the warmth – it travels in cyber space!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
My oldest son and his wife arrived early, determined to miss the traffic occasioned by construction on the bridges to and from the city. One of his army buddies was with them. The two men, using the back-hoe (much to the doggies’ delight), worked on building stone steps to access my basement apartment. Men and dogs were soaked by the time they stopped, but the result is very well done and pleasing to the eye indeed!
Yoshiko, my son’s wife, helped me prepare the potato salad, then ran last minute errands before the rest of the family showed up. Then it was chatting, and teasing, and giggling, as we filled our faces. My oldest grandson stopped in for awhile before leaving to play hockey, and my soon-to-be 18 year old granddaughter brought a pretty young friend with her. It didn’t take the uncles long to realize that the pretty friend and the grandson had something going on, so the teasing went up a notch. Young Bali, our energizer-powered 3 year old, helped his mom blow out the candles on her chocolate birthday cake, then immediately thrust his chubby little finger deep into the icing before M’mère could whip it out of reach, LOL!
My daughter and Yo gathered up and did most of the dishes; the youngest of the clan was being nursed by the birthday mommy; my granddaughter and pretty friend watched over the little lads who were playing in the Jacuzzi. It’s how we end most of our family gatherings here at home. I bagged and distributed the remainder of fresh corn from the huge sack, then the three doggies and I stood and threw airy kisses and waved as they drove down the driveway and away.
It’s evident that I relish the days spent surrounded by my family. I really can’t think of anything better. I bask in the glow of it all until it’s time for the next gathering, which will happily be more often with the arrival of fall (most of my grandchildren have birthdays then), then the Christmas holiday season.
The only blight yesterday was Bud being very, very sore after all his playing. I was up more than once during the night, giving him medication and cuddling to diminish the pain. We finally fell to sleep around 4:30 AM. It would probably be easier to keep him quiet by shutting him away from all the excitement, but I know he would absolutely HATE that. I wouldn’t want anyone to do it to me if I was in his condition, so I sure won’t do it to him.
I have a major clean-up to do now, so will get to it. It’s still raining outside, which makes it easier to stay in, turn up the music, and get the work done.
I hope you are all having a nice weekend. I’m rounding off my good time by sending you a cheerful SMILE – one soaked in the love and delight left over from a wonderful day with my family. I’m sure you’ll feel the warmth – it travels in cyber space!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
THIS AND THAT.
We’re celebrating my daughter-in-law’s birthday today – she is now all of 29 years old. I’m not sure I can remember being that age, LOL!
We were supposed to gather at my oldest son’s new house in the city, but construction on the bridges this weekend thwarted those plans. The drive would take at least an hour longer, and no-one wants to try that with 3 young children in the car. We decided to hold it here in the bush, which is closer for everyone, except my oldest son. He grumbled a little, but was actually the one to suggest the change of location. No doubt we’ll have a great day; our family get-togethers are always fun. It does mean that I have some running around to do – go to town to buy a bag of corn, a cake, and other snacks; get the vacuuming done, and remove anything that is fragile and accessible to little fingers. Unfortunately, the weather is not co-operating. We were planning a fire outside this evening, but the clouds tell me rain is on the agenda. Still, one never knows. The temperature changes so quickly and so often.
On the work front, good fortune is still playing its hand. Another of our former clients called yesterday looking for help. He’s to come to the office Monday with his boxes of documents. In the meantime, information needed for the seniors’ home is pouring in by telephone, by fax, by e-mail. It’s rock ‘n roll and we love every moment!
The only dark spot was the 2nd day absence of my young stagiare (temp-worker). She is a student; an extremely pretty young lady who began her training last Monday. She didn’t show up on Thursday or Friday. She didn’t call, and wasn’t answering her phone when we tried to reach her. Not knowing if she lives alone or not, worried that something has happened, I called the school that sent her to us. The supervisor there was surprised, and said she would follow up and get back to me. There was still no news when I left the office last night. We get many requests from colleges and students during the year. Each student is required to work in an office for a short period before obtaining a graduation certificate. We can only accommodate a certain number; I had to refuse several students because I had already accepted this girl’s application. I hope her excuse is valid. If not, she is being extremely irresponsible by taking away someone else’s chance to complete the course.
I’m off to run my errands and to prepare for the family invasion! Have a great day, folks! May there be as many SMILES in your home as will be in mine today!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
We were supposed to gather at my oldest son’s new house in the city, but construction on the bridges this weekend thwarted those plans. The drive would take at least an hour longer, and no-one wants to try that with 3 young children in the car. We decided to hold it here in the bush, which is closer for everyone, except my oldest son. He grumbled a little, but was actually the one to suggest the change of location. No doubt we’ll have a great day; our family get-togethers are always fun. It does mean that I have some running around to do – go to town to buy a bag of corn, a cake, and other snacks; get the vacuuming done, and remove anything that is fragile and accessible to little fingers. Unfortunately, the weather is not co-operating. We were planning a fire outside this evening, but the clouds tell me rain is on the agenda. Still, one never knows. The temperature changes so quickly and so often.
On the work front, good fortune is still playing its hand. Another of our former clients called yesterday looking for help. He’s to come to the office Monday with his boxes of documents. In the meantime, information needed for the seniors’ home is pouring in by telephone, by fax, by e-mail. It’s rock ‘n roll and we love every moment!
The only dark spot was the 2nd day absence of my young stagiare (temp-worker). She is a student; an extremely pretty young lady who began her training last Monday. She didn’t show up on Thursday or Friday. She didn’t call, and wasn’t answering her phone when we tried to reach her. Not knowing if she lives alone or not, worried that something has happened, I called the school that sent her to us. The supervisor there was surprised, and said she would follow up and get back to me. There was still no news when I left the office last night. We get many requests from colleges and students during the year. Each student is required to work in an office for a short period before obtaining a graduation certificate. We can only accommodate a certain number; I had to refuse several students because I had already accepted this girl’s application. I hope her excuse is valid. If not, she is being extremely irresponsible by taking away someone else’s chance to complete the course.
I’m off to run my errands and to prepare for the family invasion! Have a great day, folks! May there be as many SMILES in your home as will be in mine today!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
Friday, August 20, 2010
TALK ABOUT A GOOD DAY!
I’m sure you have all had those days where just everything seems to go right. That was what happened to me this August 19th, 2010. Well, actually, it all started the night before.
The inspector gave us thumbs up for the second house on our list, even going so far as to say it was a “key in hand” residence, meaning we could open immediately after purchase; anything to repair is minor. Our meeting (the partners) after the visit was extremely positive. Each person had done the homework required – all things point to ‘GO’!
Line, being from out of town, slept over at my home. Maybe it was fatigue, maybe the good vibes, but we spent a couple of hours laughing over little things as the doggies played around us. Bud was feeling much better; nearly his own rambunctious self; that alone was a relief.
The next morning my friend Kilroy, who has been away on vacation, dropped in at the office. Okay, maybe it was to get his computer fixed, LOL, but I had the pleasure of chatting with him anyway. The rest of the day was busy – two new clients, the return of a former client, and great news concerning one who has been having a problem with the government. Our efforts for her have been successful – she has won her case. To top it off, my associate called to tell us that his dilemma seems to be working out in our favour too.
On my way home, I stopped to cheer for my grandson– he scored two of the seven goals that won the soccer game for his team. It’s the first time I’ve attended a match, and he told me the goals were scored for me! Cool, huh?
I was not even in the house yet when my cellular rang. It was a third partner (our nurse) advising me that our plans for the ‘home-away-from home’ residences for seniors have been welcomed with open arms by the Health and Social services in our area. They have offered to help in any way they can, and confirmed that our approach is a new and refreshing way to deal with an existing problem. They foresee nothing but success in our venture.
The final touch of my evening was to read Kilroy’s blog – he wasn’t writing during his vacation, and it seemed something was missing when I couldn’t read him each day.
After a decent night’s sleep, I woke this morning to sunshine – it feels like the good fortune is still happening! Life is good, and I’m SMILING!!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
The inspector gave us thumbs up for the second house on our list, even going so far as to say it was a “key in hand” residence, meaning we could open immediately after purchase; anything to repair is minor. Our meeting (the partners) after the visit was extremely positive. Each person had done the homework required – all things point to ‘GO’!
Line, being from out of town, slept over at my home. Maybe it was fatigue, maybe the good vibes, but we spent a couple of hours laughing over little things as the doggies played around us. Bud was feeling much better; nearly his own rambunctious self; that alone was a relief.
The next morning my friend Kilroy, who has been away on vacation, dropped in at the office. Okay, maybe it was to get his computer fixed, LOL, but I had the pleasure of chatting with him anyway. The rest of the day was busy – two new clients, the return of a former client, and great news concerning one who has been having a problem with the government. Our efforts for her have been successful – she has won her case. To top it off, my associate called to tell us that his dilemma seems to be working out in our favour too.
On my way home, I stopped to cheer for my grandson– he scored two of the seven goals that won the soccer game for his team. It’s the first time I’ve attended a match, and he told me the goals were scored for me! Cool, huh?
I was not even in the house yet when my cellular rang. It was a third partner (our nurse) advising me that our plans for the ‘home-away-from home’ residences for seniors have been welcomed with open arms by the Health and Social services in our area. They have offered to help in any way they can, and confirmed that our approach is a new and refreshing way to deal with an existing problem. They foresee nothing but success in our venture.
The final touch of my evening was to read Kilroy’s blog – he wasn’t writing during his vacation, and it seemed something was missing when I couldn’t read him each day.
After a decent night’s sleep, I woke this morning to sunshine – it feels like the good fortune is still happening! Life is good, and I’m SMILING!!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
BUD
The clock beside the bed told me it was shortly after midnight. I lay still, wondering what had disturbed my sleep. The dogs weren’t barking, so it couldn’t be an intruder. My fan was still humming softly, swinging back and forth, so it wasn’t the electricity clicking off that pulled me from the arms of Morpheus. But there was something…and then I heard it, a deep sigh ending in a little whine; and knew what was happening. I lifted my head and looked down beside the bed. Bud was crouched right there, motionless except for the tremors that ran over his skin with each deep breath. His eyes were glazed with pain as he looked up at me. He leaned against my hand when I reached out to fondle his head.
‘Hurting, old fella?’ His tail wagged weakly when he heard my voice. I pushed back the blankets, and he struggled to stand upright, then hobbled slowly behind me into the kitchen. Grump-puppy joined us when he heard the fridge door open and the rattle of the pill bottle. He knew the routine. It was a sure sign that cheese would be the treat – his share clean, while Bud’s pieces camouflaged the pain medication. These occasions are more frequent lately.
Bud’s health is deteriorating; both the spread of cancer, and the rheumatism so evident whenever it rains, are taking their toll. One would never know it while watching him play outside. He’s still racing around, albeit slower, and continues to push or pull his rocks up and down the hill. His breathing is quite ragged, so he needs to stop still now and then. His pride is such that, if I dare to glance his way when he’s taking a break, he’ll go right back at it again. A born show-off. A typical male, he pushes himself to the limit, then pays for it at the end of the day. When I’m away at work he has no choice but to take it easy, being closeted in the house during the day, and only a short walk or play in the evening. On the weekend, however, it would be pure torture to keep him shut up inside when he can see all the other dogs running around on his territory. Sunday nights, especially if it rains, are not usually good.
Bud has never been a whiner. If he was a human, he’d be dubbed “the strong, silent type”. He has come through dog fights, been hit more than once by cars (in my driveway, yet!), rolled down a rocky hill, and had his share of ‘owies’. We knew he had to be hurting after these episodes, but it never stopped his continual movement, and he never made a sound. More than once I’d shake my head and say “no sense, no feeling.”
It’s different now. When he is suffering, if I’m awake, he’ll come and lean against me, and stay there quietly. I know it’s time for the pain killers. At night, instead of lying by the foot of my bed, he’ll move to the head, then stays there, patiently waiting for me to get up. He only whines when he can’t handle it any longer and, even then, it doesn’t seem to be voluntary, and it’s not loud. It doesn’t have to be; an invisible finger of love pokes me, telling me my friend needs help.
I know it won’t be long now.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
‘Hurting, old fella?’ His tail wagged weakly when he heard my voice. I pushed back the blankets, and he struggled to stand upright, then hobbled slowly behind me into the kitchen. Grump-puppy joined us when he heard the fridge door open and the rattle of the pill bottle. He knew the routine. It was a sure sign that cheese would be the treat – his share clean, while Bud’s pieces camouflaged the pain medication. These occasions are more frequent lately.
Bud’s health is deteriorating; both the spread of cancer, and the rheumatism so evident whenever it rains, are taking their toll. One would never know it while watching him play outside. He’s still racing around, albeit slower, and continues to push or pull his rocks up and down the hill. His breathing is quite ragged, so he needs to stop still now and then. His pride is such that, if I dare to glance his way when he’s taking a break, he’ll go right back at it again. A born show-off. A typical male, he pushes himself to the limit, then pays for it at the end of the day. When I’m away at work he has no choice but to take it easy, being closeted in the house during the day, and only a short walk or play in the evening. On the weekend, however, it would be pure torture to keep him shut up inside when he can see all the other dogs running around on his territory. Sunday nights, especially if it rains, are not usually good.
Bud has never been a whiner. If he was a human, he’d be dubbed “the strong, silent type”. He has come through dog fights, been hit more than once by cars (in my driveway, yet!), rolled down a rocky hill, and had his share of ‘owies’. We knew he had to be hurting after these episodes, but it never stopped his continual movement, and he never made a sound. More than once I’d shake my head and say “no sense, no feeling.”
It’s different now. When he is suffering, if I’m awake, he’ll come and lean against me, and stay there quietly. I know it’s time for the pain killers. At night, instead of lying by the foot of my bed, he’ll move to the head, then stays there, patiently waiting for me to get up. He only whines when he can’t handle it any longer and, even then, it doesn’t seem to be voluntary, and it’s not loud. It doesn’t have to be; an invisible finger of love pokes me, telling me my friend needs help.
I know it won’t be long now.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
Sunday, August 15, 2010
THE INSPECTION...AND LOVE
The real estate agent was already at the house when I arrived, and the inspector showed up shortly after. I made the introductions. The agent seemed satisfied that he wasn’t wasting his time when M. disclosed that he worked for the provincial association responsible for home inspections. We went over the house room by room, M. armed with a camera, and myself jotting down any remarks he made about renovations needed. One of the elderly residents was sitting in his room watching television, and kindly agreed, for a second time, to let us come in to look around. I introduced myself to him as the men inspected the pipes under the sink, the ceiling, etc.
“Are you thinking of buying the place?” he asked. I answered that yes, it was quite possible. He then told me that he had his own house in the small town close by, but that his children and family didn’t like him staying alone. He repeated, “But I do have my own house.” So the agent was right, I thought silently. They are worried about having to move.
Aloud I reassured him, “That’s okay, Mr D…. If we buy here, you can just stay on with us if you wish.” I smiled at him. “You’ll be our first official client, and you can show us the ropes!!” Relief was evident in the smile he returned, as he answered “Thank you, that’s nice to know.”
Two hours later, M. and I were sitting at the local Tim Horton’s, sipping coffee while he gave me the lowdown. It was much as I’d thought. Although he agreed that the century old house was beautiful, and would be a gem for any contractor able to do all the repairs himself, it would require substantial expense before even opening for business. This could, of course, be figured into the purchase offer. However, it would delay start-up by at least two months, if not more. He then agreed to come with us next Tuesday evening to see another of the four places we have been considering. I offered payment for his time, which he adamantly refused.
You see, subtle signs point to this venture being a success. M., who is an authentic building inspector, is one of my son’s best friends. He was one of the lads sharing an apartment with us for those years I lived in the city. Another of my partners has an artist friend whose talent is refurbishing walls and ceilings so that they blend in with original décor, and who is willing to help out at little cost too. Because of our existing agency, we have access to a bank of competent nursing home workers, and a third partner is herself a retired nurse, with invaluable experience in the field. Add to this the thought that our families are wholeheartedly supporting our idea, and the lack of adequate care for seniors throughout the province, and one can’t help but be enthusiastic.
Today, however, all that will be put aside while I take care of my own home. Laundry, floors, windows to wash are on the agenda. I also need to spend time with the doggies; I can tell they are lonesome and bored. They were shut up in the house alone while I worked longer hours last week, and yesterday the inspection, then my babysitting, kept me away from them again. Although pits are more independent than most breeds, they still need plenty of love and attention.
Isn’t it true that when you are surrounded by love, you, yourself, seem to have more of it to bestow? Yesterday, inspector M. caring enough to help out; the sweet cuddles from my little grandsons, and this morning already a call from my daughter just to say hi and giggle together; followed by another from my DIL, who got in touch to say thanks and continued to chat and laugh about the boys’ antics…..now two adoring doggies coming to put their heads on my knee, tails wagging in anticipation of spending time together. All of it genuine, all of it precious, and the glow starts in my heart then quickly spreads to keep me floating in its rosy haze.
The weather is fine, the music is rockin’, and life is good! If my SMILE was any bigger, I would need another face to hold it. I’m sending it out to you as I wish you a happy day; I’m confident you will pass it on…because love IS contagious!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
“Are you thinking of buying the place?” he asked. I answered that yes, it was quite possible. He then told me that he had his own house in the small town close by, but that his children and family didn’t like him staying alone. He repeated, “But I do have my own house.” So the agent was right, I thought silently. They are worried about having to move.
Aloud I reassured him, “That’s okay, Mr D…. If we buy here, you can just stay on with us if you wish.” I smiled at him. “You’ll be our first official client, and you can show us the ropes!!” Relief was evident in the smile he returned, as he answered “Thank you, that’s nice to know.”
Two hours later, M. and I were sitting at the local Tim Horton’s, sipping coffee while he gave me the lowdown. It was much as I’d thought. Although he agreed that the century old house was beautiful, and would be a gem for any contractor able to do all the repairs himself, it would require substantial expense before even opening for business. This could, of course, be figured into the purchase offer. However, it would delay start-up by at least two months, if not more. He then agreed to come with us next Tuesday evening to see another of the four places we have been considering. I offered payment for his time, which he adamantly refused.
You see, subtle signs point to this venture being a success. M., who is an authentic building inspector, is one of my son’s best friends. He was one of the lads sharing an apartment with us for those years I lived in the city. Another of my partners has an artist friend whose talent is refurbishing walls and ceilings so that they blend in with original décor, and who is willing to help out at little cost too. Because of our existing agency, we have access to a bank of competent nursing home workers, and a third partner is herself a retired nurse, with invaluable experience in the field. Add to this the thought that our families are wholeheartedly supporting our idea, and the lack of adequate care for seniors throughout the province, and one can’t help but be enthusiastic.
Today, however, all that will be put aside while I take care of my own home. Laundry, floors, windows to wash are on the agenda. I also need to spend time with the doggies; I can tell they are lonesome and bored. They were shut up in the house alone while I worked longer hours last week, and yesterday the inspection, then my babysitting, kept me away from them again. Although pits are more independent than most breeds, they still need plenty of love and attention.
Isn’t it true that when you are surrounded by love, you, yourself, seem to have more of it to bestow? Yesterday, inspector M. caring enough to help out; the sweet cuddles from my little grandsons, and this morning already a call from my daughter just to say hi and giggle together; followed by another from my DIL, who got in touch to say thanks and continued to chat and laugh about the boys’ antics…..now two adoring doggies coming to put their heads on my knee, tails wagging in anticipation of spending time together. All of it genuine, all of it precious, and the glow starts in my heart then quickly spreads to keep me floating in its rosy haze.
The weather is fine, the music is rockin’, and life is good! If my SMILE was any bigger, I would need another face to hold it. I’m sending it out to you as I wish you a happy day; I’m confident you will pass it on…because love IS contagious!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
AND TODAY...
I wasn’t wrong about it being a busy week, or maybe it just seemed that way because I was alone at the office. Not that there was a multitude of calls, but anyone doing accounting will tell you that interruptions often cause you to go right back to the beginning once you return to those columns of numbers. It takes a few minutes to find your concentration – then the phone rings again, LOL! In spite of being continuously occupied, at the end of most days I couldn’t put my finger on what, if anything, was actually completed.
My associate has not yet returned, so the future of the companies is still up in the air. He usually does land on his feet in his ventures, and seems confident that this time will be no exception. The numerous and unforeseen delays keep us all on tenterhooks. It is supposed to be resolved by the end of next week, but the deadline has been changed so often now that I’m resigned to just waiting it out – and whatever happens will happen. In the meantime, evenings have been used to gather information we’ll need to acquire and open our home-away-from-homes for seniors. Later this morning I’ll be meeting the real estate agent and a civil engineer at one of the houses we are considering as a purchase. It’s a beautiful, huge, old residence, ideally situated but, because of its age, the basics (plumbing, wiring, well and septic tank, etc.) need to be thoroughly inspected before making an offer.
A little note about the young real estate agent. When he first showed us the place, we discovered that there are two elderly men who are still living there. Because the owner’s husband passed away last year, and she herself had a stroke shortly after, the other six seniors had been relocated elsewhere. We were discussing how we could set things up; where to put the elevated gardens (to avoid a lot of bending); the common room, the parking space for visitors, and so on. The agent stood listening, then asked me how much we were planning to charge each resident. When I told him the rate we were thinking of, he looked genuinely worried. With questioning, I learned that the two men still there were paying slightly less. The agent feared that we would make them move away from what has been their home for the past couple of years. His empathy was surprising; these men are strangers to him. Warming to him immediately, we both assured him that things could be worked out; no-one would be forced to move. Needless to say, his attitude won our respect. It was one of those unexpected bright spots in our day.
And another bright spot for this day – later this afternoon I’ll be babysitting two of my grandsons. The youngest will be going to the family supper with the parents, because mommy is breast-feeding (Nope! Granny can’t do much there!), but I’ll get to play with Nalou and Bali for a few hours. I imagine I’ll have a lot to talk about tomorrow!
I’m going out to watch the sunrise now. The doggies are standing in the window giving me the ‘What’s taking you so long?’ look.
Hoping you have a good weekend, full of interesting moments and many SMILES!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
My associate has not yet returned, so the future of the companies is still up in the air. He usually does land on his feet in his ventures, and seems confident that this time will be no exception. The numerous and unforeseen delays keep us all on tenterhooks. It is supposed to be resolved by the end of next week, but the deadline has been changed so often now that I’m resigned to just waiting it out – and whatever happens will happen. In the meantime, evenings have been used to gather information we’ll need to acquire and open our home-away-from-homes for seniors. Later this morning I’ll be meeting the real estate agent and a civil engineer at one of the houses we are considering as a purchase. It’s a beautiful, huge, old residence, ideally situated but, because of its age, the basics (plumbing, wiring, well and septic tank, etc.) need to be thoroughly inspected before making an offer.
A little note about the young real estate agent. When he first showed us the place, we discovered that there are two elderly men who are still living there. Because the owner’s husband passed away last year, and she herself had a stroke shortly after, the other six seniors had been relocated elsewhere. We were discussing how we could set things up; where to put the elevated gardens (to avoid a lot of bending); the common room, the parking space for visitors, and so on. The agent stood listening, then asked me how much we were planning to charge each resident. When I told him the rate we were thinking of, he looked genuinely worried. With questioning, I learned that the two men still there were paying slightly less. The agent feared that we would make them move away from what has been their home for the past couple of years. His empathy was surprising; these men are strangers to him. Warming to him immediately, we both assured him that things could be worked out; no-one would be forced to move. Needless to say, his attitude won our respect. It was one of those unexpected bright spots in our day.
And another bright spot for this day – later this afternoon I’ll be babysitting two of my grandsons. The youngest will be going to the family supper with the parents, because mommy is breast-feeding (Nope! Granny can’t do much there!), but I’ll get to play with Nalou and Bali for a few hours. I imagine I’ll have a lot to talk about tomorrow!
I’m going out to watch the sunrise now. The doggies are standing in the window giving me the ‘What’s taking you so long?’ look.
Hoping you have a good weekend, full of interesting moments and many SMILES!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
INTERNET & STINKY DAYS
Hey, hey – this is so cool! I’m a whisper, just a whisper, from high speed internet now that my computer dude made his visit and installed the antenna! I can list what is good about it:
- Did I say it is just a whisper’s difference from high speed internet?
- I gleefully got to tell the other greedy provider to stick it (that will cost me though; cancellation fee);
- I can work on the office server from home so no commuting necessary on weekends (just a larger briefcase);
- Monthly rate is approximately $80 less!!!! Per month!!!! LOL!
I could add that I left the poor dude alone at home because I needed to get to the city for work. I was kind, and closed the door leading to the rest of the house where the doggies were on guard duty. All he had to do was make his exit from the home office straight outside, without wondering if he would be eyed as a burglar or not. I even called him later to make sure he was out safe and sound. All was well, he told me, then added that he would pass by with his invoice next week. Maybe I should have left that door open….. (Kidding!)
Other than that, the day stunk! So much so that I had to do the extra miles to stop and cuddle my grandsons on the way home. It’s a given that fifteen minutes with them is all it takes – my mood was considerably altered. I’ll complete the procedure now by sinking into the Jacuzzi and letting it do some more magic. If Morpheus shows up on cue, today will soon enough become yesterday, and we all know tomorrow is another day.
Uh-huh. Even I had to SMILE at that lame attempt to be funny. Sweet dreams, folks!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
- Did I say it is just a whisper’s difference from high speed internet?
- I gleefully got to tell the other greedy provider to stick it (that will cost me though; cancellation fee);
- I can work on the office server from home so no commuting necessary on weekends (just a larger briefcase);
- Monthly rate is approximately $80 less!!!! Per month!!!! LOL!
I could add that I left the poor dude alone at home because I needed to get to the city for work. I was kind, and closed the door leading to the rest of the house where the doggies were on guard duty. All he had to do was make his exit from the home office straight outside, without wondering if he would be eyed as a burglar or not. I even called him later to make sure he was out safe and sound. All was well, he told me, then added that he would pass by with his invoice next week. Maybe I should have left that door open….. (Kidding!)
Other than that, the day stunk! So much so that I had to do the extra miles to stop and cuddle my grandsons on the way home. It’s a given that fifteen minutes with them is all it takes – my mood was considerably altered. I’ll complete the procedure now by sinking into the Jacuzzi and letting it do some more magic. If Morpheus shows up on cue, today will soon enough become yesterday, and we all know tomorrow is another day.
Uh-huh. Even I had to SMILE at that lame attempt to be funny. Sweet dreams, folks!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
Monday, August 9, 2010
THE WEEKEND
The Weather Network did it again – two nice bright days for the weekend they predicted. I guess one out of two ain’t bad. Saturday was splendid sunshine, not too warm – beautiful. Sunday was rain, sometimes drumming down, sometimes falling gently – also beautiful. I enjoy sitting out on the gallery watching a storm. I know one is supposed to stay inside, away from windows, etc., but how can you feel the real essence of the weather from inside? The roof ledge kept us dry; I say us because Grump-puppy and the beautiful Louka (her owner told me to get the name right!) were there beside me, each choosing a spot as close to me as possible without actually climbing on my knee. When it started to pour, Bud elected to hide in the garage instead of climbing all the stairs.
My brother, the Bird, and Fran showed up with ribs, already prepared for the BBQ, and a bottle of wine for supper Saturday night. I had made lemon tarts, so we were all set for the complete meal. Bird spent some of his time trying to repair my microwave oven. The plastic part of the door catch broke when I was using it that afternoon. I’ll have to invest in a new one – there is no way to fix it correctly, and it would cost just as much to send it away to a shop.
On Sunday I needed a ‘baby-fix’, so I called, then went to visit my son with his three sons, LOL. Nalou was his quiet, cuddly self; and Bali, ever the live-wire. The energy of that lad is astounding. The baby, Tao, has changed so much in such a short time, as babies tend to do. I took my fill of tickling, and hugs, and kisses before leaving. The glow stayed with me the rest of the day.
My daughter and granddaughter stopped at the house for a short time last evening. Shan left with some of the Salade d’Amour I had prepared during the afternoon. There is a little too much garlic in it; so much that taking some for lunch at the office today might not be a good idea. I’m not sure that the clients would be as tolerant as the doggies are when it comes to garlicky breath.
There was no news from my associate during the weekend. No news is good news? I’m not so sure. Whatever the results, good or bad, we’ll somehow handle it. In the meantime, there’s a list of things to be done for our new project – the residences. One of the houses we visited is quite old and, even if it is ideally situated and extremely beautiful (if you’re into older buildings), I’ve contacted an inspector to go over it. I’m not sure the wiring and plumbing is up to par, and any renovation expense of that type will have to be deducted from the purchase amount. Due to vacation and lay-offs, I’ll be alone at the office this week, so it’s going to be a juggling act to keep things on schedule. I have a feeling the doggies will be spending many hours alone for the next few days.
It’s time to get a move on. Enjoy your day, live it with a SMILE!
Everyday may not be good, but there’s something good in every day- Author unknown
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
My brother, the Bird, and Fran showed up with ribs, already prepared for the BBQ, and a bottle of wine for supper Saturday night. I had made lemon tarts, so we were all set for the complete meal. Bird spent some of his time trying to repair my microwave oven. The plastic part of the door catch broke when I was using it that afternoon. I’ll have to invest in a new one – there is no way to fix it correctly, and it would cost just as much to send it away to a shop.
On Sunday I needed a ‘baby-fix’, so I called, then went to visit my son with his three sons, LOL. Nalou was his quiet, cuddly self; and Bali, ever the live-wire. The energy of that lad is astounding. The baby, Tao, has changed so much in such a short time, as babies tend to do. I took my fill of tickling, and hugs, and kisses before leaving. The glow stayed with me the rest of the day.
My daughter and granddaughter stopped at the house for a short time last evening. Shan left with some of the Salade d’Amour I had prepared during the afternoon. There is a little too much garlic in it; so much that taking some for lunch at the office today might not be a good idea. I’m not sure that the clients would be as tolerant as the doggies are when it comes to garlicky breath.
There was no news from my associate during the weekend. No news is good news? I’m not so sure. Whatever the results, good or bad, we’ll somehow handle it. In the meantime, there’s a list of things to be done for our new project – the residences. One of the houses we visited is quite old and, even if it is ideally situated and extremely beautiful (if you’re into older buildings), I’ve contacted an inspector to go over it. I’m not sure the wiring and plumbing is up to par, and any renovation expense of that type will have to be deducted from the purchase amount. Due to vacation and lay-offs, I’ll be alone at the office this week, so it’s going to be a juggling act to keep things on schedule. I have a feeling the doggies will be spending many hours alone for the next few days.
It’s time to get a move on. Enjoy your day, live it with a SMILE!
Everyday may not be good, but there’s something good in every day- Author unknown
Luv from the Bush in Quebec.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
COMPUTERS & BUSES
My computer dude didn’t show up this morning as planned. I waited around, tried to reach his cell phone but, when he didn’t answer, and knowing how dependable mobiles are in this area (NOT!), thought maybe the call didn’t get through. Finally I had to head for work. I was going to leave the door open for him, then worried about his reception by the dogs with me being absent, so left a note taped on the entrance instead. He did call me a couple of hours later at the office. He had forgotten to warn me the night before that he wouldn’t be able to do the installation today. It will be done Tuesday instead, which actually suits me fine. This month’s high fee has just been debited to my bank account, so I’ll get at least some mileage out of it. Another good spin-off about his not showing up? Because I was up so early (3:30 AM), I decided to finish cleaning my home office while waiting on his arrival. It’s all done now except for tidying the bookshelves. Poor guy would have wondered if he was in the wrong house, LOL!
It will be an early night. Helen is leaving tomorrow morning to visit her daughter in NB; she’ll be taking the bus from Central Station in Montreal…and it leaves at 6 AM. The travel info warns passengers to arrive an hour before departure because, if the coach is full, they’ll have to take the next one…at 10:20 PM!! I go to the city every morning anyway so, to avoid that her elderly husband need get up in the middle of the night, I’ll drop her off at the terminal. We’ll be leaving about 4 AM; I’m usually wide-eyed and bushy-tailed at that time anyway. I’m very happy about her seeing her daughter right now. She has lost approximately 40 pounds in the last month and she’s not dieting – not good – and I know once she gets there she will be lovingly forced to see a doctor. She won’t listen to me.
All day I’ve had a craving for a Salade d’Amour; Salad of Love in English. Anyone tasted it? (Besides Kilroy – he was there the first time I ate it). It is made of spinach and bean sprouts and cashews and lots of other good stuff, with soya vinaigrette to die for. I need to get dog food on the way home tomorrow night, and will pick up the ingredients at the same time. If I have no visitors to share it, I’ll probably be still eating the left-overs most of next week. That should cure my craving, LOL!
It’s that time. My Jacuzzi is ready now, so off I go in search of Morpheus. Sweet dreams, people! I’ll check back in tomorrow.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
It will be an early night. Helen is leaving tomorrow morning to visit her daughter in NB; she’ll be taking the bus from Central Station in Montreal…and it leaves at 6 AM. The travel info warns passengers to arrive an hour before departure because, if the coach is full, they’ll have to take the next one…at 10:20 PM!! I go to the city every morning anyway so, to avoid that her elderly husband need get up in the middle of the night, I’ll drop her off at the terminal. We’ll be leaving about 4 AM; I’m usually wide-eyed and bushy-tailed at that time anyway. I’m very happy about her seeing her daughter right now. She has lost approximately 40 pounds in the last month and she’s not dieting – not good – and I know once she gets there she will be lovingly forced to see a doctor. She won’t listen to me.
All day I’ve had a craving for a Salade d’Amour; Salad of Love in English. Anyone tasted it? (Besides Kilroy – he was there the first time I ate it). It is made of spinach and bean sprouts and cashews and lots of other good stuff, with soya vinaigrette to die for. I need to get dog food on the way home tomorrow night, and will pick up the ingredients at the same time. If I have no visitors to share it, I’ll probably be still eating the left-overs most of next week. That should cure my craving, LOL!
It’s that time. My Jacuzzi is ready now, so off I go in search of Morpheus. Sweet dreams, people! I’ll check back in tomorrow.
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
INTERNET CHANGE
My, there are some beautiful houses in this area. Unfortunately, for what we want to do, each place we visited would require added construction which, in turn, increases the cost involved. Because one from our trio is on vacation next week, we have delayed visiting the next two residences on the list until her return.
The lack of sleep the night before caught up to me on the drive home. I found myself nodding off while on the auto route, so I called my daughter and told her to chat to me for a bit. It’s difficult, and dangerous, to pull over there, especially with so much roadwork going on. When I finally got on the 50, where there is more room, I did stop the truck and got out to walk around for a few minutes. It had become a necessity. That worked – and I made it home safely. I put the doggies outside, changed into PJ’s then went to get some air on the gallery….and fell to sleep on my swing. I woke to a face-wash from wet tongues of three hungry canines looking for supper, LOL! Needless to say, feeding the dogs is about all I accomplished before the Jacuzzi and bed beckoned. I vaguely heard the numerous resident hounds barking now and then throughout the night – something was wandering around in the bush outside – but still enjoyed my snooze until 3:30 AM. The lady is feeling much better now!
My computer dude is to come here early this morning and change my internet system. The monthly cost of my Hughes.net satellite is very high, but was valid because I could log onto my office computer from home, saving time and gas money. For some reason, probably because Hughes sold more air-time in this area, I can no longer reach the office. When we called the provider, I was told that such a service was not guaranteed; in other words, too bad, so sad. My technician was able to find a buyer for my system, and will install another (from Rogers, I think) that answers my needs. At the same time, the new antenna will also enable cellular phones and the alarm system to function up here in the mountains. I will have to pay a cancellation fee to Hughes (of course!) but will save money in the long run, because the monthly fee of the new installation is at least $100 lower. What is even more important is that it WILL provide what I am paying for!!
Seeing that there was not much done in this house last night, I’ll sign off now and attempt to catch up on the duties. Hope you all have a good day, and that at least one thing will happen to bring on your SMILE. I’m already wearing mine!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
The lack of sleep the night before caught up to me on the drive home. I found myself nodding off while on the auto route, so I called my daughter and told her to chat to me for a bit. It’s difficult, and dangerous, to pull over there, especially with so much roadwork going on. When I finally got on the 50, where there is more room, I did stop the truck and got out to walk around for a few minutes. It had become a necessity. That worked – and I made it home safely. I put the doggies outside, changed into PJ’s then went to get some air on the gallery….and fell to sleep on my swing. I woke to a face-wash from wet tongues of three hungry canines looking for supper, LOL! Needless to say, feeding the dogs is about all I accomplished before the Jacuzzi and bed beckoned. I vaguely heard the numerous resident hounds barking now and then throughout the night – something was wandering around in the bush outside – but still enjoyed my snooze until 3:30 AM. The lady is feeling much better now!
My computer dude is to come here early this morning and change my internet system. The monthly cost of my Hughes.net satellite is very high, but was valid because I could log onto my office computer from home, saving time and gas money. For some reason, probably because Hughes sold more air-time in this area, I can no longer reach the office. When we called the provider, I was told that such a service was not guaranteed; in other words, too bad, so sad. My technician was able to find a buyer for my system, and will install another (from Rogers, I think) that answers my needs. At the same time, the new antenna will also enable cellular phones and the alarm system to function up here in the mountains. I will have to pay a cancellation fee to Hughes (of course!) but will save money in the long run, because the monthly fee of the new installation is at least $100 lower. What is even more important is that it WILL provide what I am paying for!!
Seeing that there was not much done in this house last night, I’ll sign off now and attempt to catch up on the duties. Hope you all have a good day, and that at least one thing will happen to bring on your SMILE. I’m already wearing mine!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
A NEW VENTURE
It’s 3:15 AM, and here I am blogging. Not a personal choice – I’d rather be sleeping, which is what I did from 10 PM to just after midnight then – boing! Eyes wide open, brain in gear, and Morpheus out of sight. I’ve decided to stop fighting my insomnia. The effort only leads to frustration. When I find I’m getting too tired to function, I resort to Pure Rest, a natural product, but not one that I want to take every night. It’s for emergency only. I have come to realize that I NEVER was able to sleep what is considered ‘normal’ hours, even as a child, so there has to be a reason for it. It doesn’t appear that it will change anytime soon either, so I’ll go with the flow. Fortunately, most of the time I can get away with it. There is no punch clock at the office. A lot of the work I do can be done at any hour of the day. Yep, I’m one of the lucky ones, and I appreciate it!
One of my colleagues, also a very good friend, spent the last two nights as a guest at my home. We, together with a retired nurse, have been visiting huge houses in my mountain area. It’s with a new venture in mind; that of creating a few (4 minimum), small, exclusive, rest homes for the elderly. We want ‘home away from home’ services; nothing that resembles the institutional atmosphere of affordable places. Not everyone has the means to stay in the now popular ‘Club-Med’ complexes. Our initial research tells us that there is a lack of residences available for those between near destitute and affluent; catering to the middle-class would be a good description. Probably because of our ages (all 50+), we have empathy for those who need to leave their home because they are no longer physically able to keep it up, but are not able to live alone or with family for one reason or another, yet still want to have some control in their lives. If they desire a cup of tea in the middle of the night, they want to be able to get up and make one without a hassle. It’s a project in the works, and has got my adrenaline going. It is also a tentative bid for security when my own time for help arrives, LOL!
Well now, my Bud is lying at my feet and his snores have convinced Morpheus to show himself again. I’ll grab the occasion and go back to bed. Sending you all a big SMILE and a wish for sweet dreams!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
One of my colleagues, also a very good friend, spent the last two nights as a guest at my home. We, together with a retired nurse, have been visiting huge houses in my mountain area. It’s with a new venture in mind; that of creating a few (4 minimum), small, exclusive, rest homes for the elderly. We want ‘home away from home’ services; nothing that resembles the institutional atmosphere of affordable places. Not everyone has the means to stay in the now popular ‘Club-Med’ complexes. Our initial research tells us that there is a lack of residences available for those between near destitute and affluent; catering to the middle-class would be a good description. Probably because of our ages (all 50+), we have empathy for those who need to leave their home because they are no longer physically able to keep it up, but are not able to live alone or with family for one reason or another, yet still want to have some control in their lives. If they desire a cup of tea in the middle of the night, they want to be able to get up and make one without a hassle. It’s a project in the works, and has got my adrenaline going. It is also a tentative bid for security when my own time for help arrives, LOL!
Well now, my Bud is lying at my feet and his snores have convinced Morpheus to show himself again. I’ll grab the occasion and go back to bed. Sending you all a big SMILE and a wish for sweet dreams!
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
Monday, August 2, 2010
THAT WORD "CAN'T"
My grandmother had a saying for everything, and one of her favourites (at least, one I heard often) was “Can’t is a sluggard too lazy to work”. Telling her “I can’t…” was, in her mind, an excuse, or an unwillingness to try. It never worked. Unless we could prove beyond a doubt that whatever we were trying to avoid doing was physically impossible, she would not accept the little word ‘can’t”. Laziness was on the top of her list of vices; right up there with telling lies or taking the Lord’s name in vain. Because of this, we (my brother and I) learned very young that many things we thought were impossible were indeed do-able. Even more important, we realized that one does not shirk a task, whether physical or emotional, because it is unpleasant. One bites the bullet and does one’s best to get it done. It is a lesson that has stood me in good stead more than once.
We had no running water on the farm, therefore there was no need for sewers. The dishes were done in a deep pan, and the water was then carried a little distance into the back field and thrown onto the ground. My brother had mentioned seeing a long, green garter snake in the same area, so I always looked for something else to do, usually with success, when it came time to throw out the dishwater. For some reason, even knowing they were harmless, those slithering reptiles petrified me…they still do.
It was inevitable that my turn to empty the pan would arrive. My whining “I can’t…there’s a snake out there” did me absolutely no good at all! In those days, it was unthinkable for a child to refuse heeding orders. You did what you were told. I picked up the pan and, paying more attention to where I was walking than to the water slopping over the edges, I began to goose-step my way out into the field. Sure enough, I met the snake. In fact, I nearly put my foot right on it. I screamed…and kept screaming. The pan became a missile; it and the water it contained went flying through the air. I imagine the dance I did strongly resembled the Russian Bear Dance, heels kicking high. It lasted for a few seconds before I gathered myself enough to high-tail it out of there back to the kitchen door!
Nobody looked around, or seemed to pay attention to my little drama. My grandmother had seen it all, and there was a suspicion of a smile still on her face when she turned and asked me where the dishpan was. I can remember staring at her, still blubbering from my fright, and realising with dread that, yes…I was going to have to go back out there and retrieve the dishpan. There would be no getting out of it. I waited a few minutes then, holding my breath, mumbling repeatedly my grandma’s assurance that the snake was more frightened of me than me of it, I carefully made my way back into the field. There was no sign of the culprit. I gingerly lifted the pan, then ran as fast as I could; the awful feeling that the snake was right behind me putting wings on my feet.
There was no open praise for my achievement. I did, however, overhear Grandma telling my Grandfather about the episode later that night. I detected a sliver of approval in her tone when she said “…scared as she was, she went out there and brought back the pan!”
Grandpa chuckled. His pride was evident. “That’s our girl!” he answered. I went to bed floating on a cloud. I could do it!
But only if I had to. I still used every excuse in the book to avoid that area of the field. Suddenly a barrel appeared just outside the door. It was to be used to dump the dishwater, my Grandma told us; no use making the field muddier than it was already. I hugged her a little tighter that night on my way to bed.
Events this past weekend renewed these memories. Sorry, but if anyone tells me “I can’t” without giving it his/her best shot, I am inclined to consider it a “cop-out”. There’s no empathy there. Blame it on my upbringing.
Thinking about the snake gives me chills; but thinking about my Grandma, and all her invaluable lessons, makes me SMILE, because she is the one who taught me that I CAN handle nearly anything you throw at me..
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
We had no running water on the farm, therefore there was no need for sewers. The dishes were done in a deep pan, and the water was then carried a little distance into the back field and thrown onto the ground. My brother had mentioned seeing a long, green garter snake in the same area, so I always looked for something else to do, usually with success, when it came time to throw out the dishwater. For some reason, even knowing they were harmless, those slithering reptiles petrified me…they still do.
It was inevitable that my turn to empty the pan would arrive. My whining “I can’t…there’s a snake out there” did me absolutely no good at all! In those days, it was unthinkable for a child to refuse heeding orders. You did what you were told. I picked up the pan and, paying more attention to where I was walking than to the water slopping over the edges, I began to goose-step my way out into the field. Sure enough, I met the snake. In fact, I nearly put my foot right on it. I screamed…and kept screaming. The pan became a missile; it and the water it contained went flying through the air. I imagine the dance I did strongly resembled the Russian Bear Dance, heels kicking high. It lasted for a few seconds before I gathered myself enough to high-tail it out of there back to the kitchen door!
Nobody looked around, or seemed to pay attention to my little drama. My grandmother had seen it all, and there was a suspicion of a smile still on her face when she turned and asked me where the dishpan was. I can remember staring at her, still blubbering from my fright, and realising with dread that, yes…I was going to have to go back out there and retrieve the dishpan. There would be no getting out of it. I waited a few minutes then, holding my breath, mumbling repeatedly my grandma’s assurance that the snake was more frightened of me than me of it, I carefully made my way back into the field. There was no sign of the culprit. I gingerly lifted the pan, then ran as fast as I could; the awful feeling that the snake was right behind me putting wings on my feet.
There was no open praise for my achievement. I did, however, overhear Grandma telling my Grandfather about the episode later that night. I detected a sliver of approval in her tone when she said “…scared as she was, she went out there and brought back the pan!”
Grandpa chuckled. His pride was evident. “That’s our girl!” he answered. I went to bed floating on a cloud. I could do it!
But only if I had to. I still used every excuse in the book to avoid that area of the field. Suddenly a barrel appeared just outside the door. It was to be used to dump the dishwater, my Grandma told us; no use making the field muddier than it was already. I hugged her a little tighter that night on my way to bed.
Events this past weekend renewed these memories. Sorry, but if anyone tells me “I can’t” without giving it his/her best shot, I am inclined to consider it a “cop-out”. There’s no empathy there. Blame it on my upbringing.
Thinking about the snake gives me chills; but thinking about my Grandma, and all her invaluable lessons, makes me SMILE, because she is the one who taught me that I CAN handle nearly anything you throw at me..
Luv from the Bush in Quebec
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