Thursday, September 30, 2010

RECYCLING, LAS VEGAS AND UFOS

The recycling truck comes around only once every two weeks. I had forgotten it for over a month, so today I was up at 5 AM and hauling that huge, heavy container; two bulging, blue plastic bags; and a pile of folded cardboard boxes out to the end of the long, steep driveway. It took three trips to complete the job, much to the doggies’ delight. Even the beautiful Louka showed up to run around me in circles, her tail waving in encouragement. As I grunted under the weight, I eyed all three of those canines, contemplating if there was a way I could fit them into a harness, fabricate a sort of trailer……then bang! In their excitement of taking such an early morning run, and more intent on watching me than where they were going, Grump-puppy and Louka barrelled into each other. Both flew head-over-teakettle. Picturing the result if one of them HAD been dragging the overloaded container, I quickly scrapped the thought of using them to help me. For amusement only, was my thought. I have to admit they fit the bill; it wasn’t even daylight and they already had me laughing.

Today is the second day working from home. So far, so good. It isn’t even 9:30 AM and 2 payroll faxes have been completed and sent on their way; a profit and loss statement is nearly ready, and I’ve had conversations with three clients. We’re rolling!! I’m not in my p.j.’s - the stroll to take out the recycling meant getting dressed – but I’m very comfortable in jeans and an over-sized sweater, not appropriate office wear. Wonderful! A bonus is that I’ll be able to watch my hockey game tonight from the drop of the puck instead of sitting in traffic, listening to the first period on the car radio. Just that alone makes this idea worthwhile!

My daughter, Shan, is on her way to Las Vegas this morning. She has a 4-day break, a paid trip, and is hoping for beginner’s luck on the gaming tables. She called yesterday, flustered because she had just learned that her oldest son‘s job is taking him to Abitibi (northern Quebec) on Monday. He’ll be gone before she arrives on that night, and her mother’s heart was hurting because she wouldn’t be there to wave goodbye. Fred is 20, works with Hydro Quebec, and is quite able to take care of himself, but he has been renting his mom’s basement apartment since he was 18, so she’ll miss his company for sure. Like any mom, she’s worried that he’ll forget to take enough warm socks, his winter coat, etc., and realizes how lonesome she will be with him not being around every night. It’s always hard to cut the apron strings, isn’t it?

Before I get back to work, I want to check the Montreal news. On my drive home last night, I heard a doctor claiming to have spotted a UFO in the skies over the city on Tuesday. Apparently he was not the only person to have seen it. Hummm…well, 2012 is fast approaching; could this be a sign that there is some truth in all those predictions? And who should they meet if they instruct us to ‘Take me to your leader’? Any suggestions? I want to be prepared if they decide to land in the bush…….

Have a good day, folks! Mine is already looking fine, so I’m SMILING – sharing it with you!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

HOME AND HOCKEY

Noon break. It is my first day staying at home, and I’ve spent most of it handling business problems by telephone; so much for working quietly! Still, I am saving gas PLUS 4 hours travel time, and my doggies have been in and out often, and are now playfully wrestling each other in the kitchen, happy that Mistress is present. Just that alone makes it all worth while. It is a dull, rainy temperature outside, but my morale is warm and sunny. I’m humming Bob Marley’s tune ‘Every little thing is gonna be alright’. Like, hey – I’m making money and still in my p.j.’s here – what more could one want???

And my Habs won their game last night. Yep, we’re back to hockey fever. It is just pre-season, giving the fans an opportunity to see the new players in action but, as you know, the sport is fascinating for yours truly. It is definitely one way of pausing the constant business-on-brain. No-one can say it makes me a couch potato either, because I’m jumping up and down, or dancing around with the doggies throughout the whole scenario – I get more exercise than I would going for a walk! That’s also the reason I prefer to watch the games alone; I wouldn’t want anyone calling the men in white coats to come and take me away, LOL! Before starting time last night, one of my favourite players, bad-boy Maxime Lapierre, was awarded the Jean Beliveau trophy for community service. It seems he has organized events that collected millions of dollars for various children’s charities in our region. Way to go, Max!! Mr. Beliveau himself was interviewed, and he is so much like my friend, Kilroy; his looks, his walk, his speech, his class…nearly a direct replica. I can never see Mr. Beliveau without thinking of Kilroy.

Eh bien, lunch time is over. Back to work. Hoping you are all enjoying the day, and sending y’all a huge SMILE! Please pass it on – someone out there will surely appreciate it!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

Sunday, September 26, 2010

CHAPTERS, & CHANGES

We had been in the bookstore for at least 3 hours before either of us noticed the time. Chapters has a way of absorbing bookworms. One can wander around, select editions, read a chapter or two before deciding to drop it into your bag for purchase, or reluctantly return it to the shelf because you’ve already busted your budget. There were many on sale, marked down from 25$ to 5$, so I managed to add a couple of new (to me) writers to my choices.

On entering the store, Helen and I had each gone our own way, drawn to our personal interest sections, but met again in the long line at the cashier counter. In spite of the crowd, the excellent service had us rung up in no time. Yep, I spent more than planned; a normal occurrence whenever I go for books. We headed for the Starbucks concession. We couldn’t leave without having one of their famous ‘lattés’. There was a table installed near the bottom of the stairs, and there I met a Canadian author promoting her best-sellers. It was Sheila Kindellan-Sheehan, and she signed the copy of her The Sands Motel for me. I agreed to send her my comments by e-mail after reading it.

It was mid-afternoon by the time I got back home. My doggies were waiting for me impatiently. The hours spent at the office last week kept them shut in the house for longer than usual each day; and now Saturday I was away again? In an attempt to make up for the lack of attention, I decided to forego housework and take them for a long walk. It didn’t hurt that the weather was beautiful, the fall colours vibrant, and my own desire to wander around outside was far stronger than that of pushing a mop. And I knew they would be alone again for the evening. My Cuban friends had invited me to their house for a fondue; an occasion one does not miss. I attended, had a wonderful time surrounded by laughter, music and delicious food, then made sure to hug and play with the doggies for at least an hour when I returned home at midnight.

Little do they know, but because of my guilt about leaving them alone for such long periods last week, the doggies have pushed me to do what should have been done ages ago. Thursday I advised the employees and the associates (who are still there for the time being) that I would be working from home on Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting tomorrow. Not only will I make better use of the 4 to 5 hours spent in traffic each of those days, but my dogs will have a more normal life. A good pit-bull is a tired pit-bull. Bud, older and slower because of his cancer, finds it less difficult, but Grump, still young and VERY active, is showing his boredom by being constantly underfoot when I am at home. He’s becoming high-strung; not a good thing with his breed. A lap-dog he is not! Besides, technology permits me to work directly on the office server, telephone and fax machines are available, and meeting with clients can be scheduled the three days I will be in the city. My decision is made; now I just have to stick to it!

It is cool and gray and very windy outside right now, but still good for putting on a warm sweater and jogging out with my four-legged companions. I do eventually have to get to the housework too, so leave you now, wishing you a happy day. Sending you my SMILE!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

Saturday, September 25, 2010

I'M STILL HERE...

Helen is an avid reader, but has never been to that huge, wonderful, bookstore called Chapters. For the longest time we’ve been planning to go together, and something would always come up, on her side or mine, so we never did make it. Lately she’s been having a rough time, and needs the break. I have $80.00 of gift certificates in my purse, and they have been crying out to be cashed in for the longest time…so today is the day. I’m picking her up at ten this morning and off to the city we go. For a couple of hours we will lose ourselves in that fascinating new-book smell, peeking into the imaginations of as many authors as we can before choosing the ones that most entice us. In my case it’s always a toss-up; there are too many. I have difficulty deciding on which to buy and which to leave for another shopping spree. Ah – if only all the decisions I need to make could be so joyful an experience!

It’s been a tough week. Long hours and stressful situations kept me from blogging, and I apologize to my regular readers. I know how disappointed I feel when Kilroy doesn’t post; it messes up my routine, LOL! However, I always end up writing what touches me emotionally at that moment, and there some things better left unsaid. Fortunately, I had a long chat with my Saskabush friend, Karen, last night, and it helped put my head on straight. She endured my venting, so now I can move on to more positive thinking. Thank you, Karen!

This is short, folks. I need to prepare for my excursion to Chapters, but I’ll come back in later today and write more. Have a good one – enjoy the beautiful fall colours that are so vivid in this morning’s sunshine! Sending you SMILES!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

Sunday, September 19, 2010

AND FINALLY...SLEEP!

Last night, receiving a call that I would have no surprise visitors, or would at least be warned in advance if the visit could happen, I finally gave in and took a couple of Usana tablets before going to bed. It was a great 9 hour sleep! This morning I woke to a crisp day, but loads of sunshine out there. It’s a definite lift of spirits, in spite of the hours of preparation still needed for the associate’s meeting. It’s scheduled for tonight at 9 PM.

Constant crunching of numbers can lead to errors, so yesterday I took regular breaks. During those, I managed to wash the fireplace windows, the floors and a load of winter clothes. In between all that, I doctored Bud and Grump for Kennel cough (a gift from the beautiful Louka). The doggies were so happy to have me home all day! We took our short walk, and I made sure to go outside often, where they could see me watch them play. As a result, they were far more relaxed last night. I’d brought up some wood, so by 10 PM they were both installed by the fireplace, snug on their cosy pillows, ready to snooze quietly and ignore the movement of the nocturnal bush creatures. By 11 PM, nothing was stirring in my house, not even a mouse….LOL!

Today my son and his army buddy are to come and finish the exterior steps leading into the basement apartment. Once that is completed, I’ll be able to rent it out, and any additional income, especially during the winter months, is welcome! I expect my DIL, Yoshiko, will be with them. I haven’t seen her since she left our office to follow her dream of working in a travel agency, so I’m looking forward to their arrival. Being familiar with the company accounting, Yo can give me a hand verifying the report I’ve prepared too; a bonus! She won’t be working for free; I’ve a chicken ready for roasting and lemon meringue tarts on the menu, and she has always enjoyed my cooking.

A quick shower to make myself presentable, then back to the numbers I go! First, though, at the risk of sounding like a publicity stunt for Justi’s Secret Kitchen products, I must tell you her sorghum mustard is very tasty, and if you want a real treat, it is the fig jelly with warm tea biscuits! Yum!! If I don’t fit into any of my winter clothes, I’ll blame it on Justi! For those of you in Blogit, I don’t have to explain who she is. For any readers of the family blog, Justi is a writer who posted pictures and descriptions of her homemade products on the Blogit site. They sounded so appetizing, and I love trying new foods, so I ordered a selection. I was not disappointed; so far each of them has lived up to taste bud expectations! And with that, I have admitted to being lazy, and using the same post on both family and Blogit sites.

I note that Kilroy’s post wasn’t there this morning, so I had to drink my coffee reading the lotto numbers and the astrology column. I believe he has been having a problem with his blog site too. I know how frustrating that can be, so I’ll give him a break for today…but tomorrow morning I’ll be needing my fix, my friend!

Have a good Sunday, folks. I’m sending you all sunny SMILES, and know that you’ll pass it on.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

Saturday, September 18, 2010

TGIF!!

I didn’t get a wink of sleep on Wednesday night, about 3 hours worth on Thursday night, and tonight the pattern is holding. Yes, I could have used some of the natural products to put me out, but circumstances dictated that I be reasonably alert. It didn’t help that the return to work was wild, so the doggies spent 3 days shut inside for approximately 12 hours per day. By the time I would return home, it was dark, and I was too tired to go for walks or to give them much attention. They were antsy. Every little thing moving in the bush during the night sent them racing to the doors or windows, barking and/or wanting to go outside. That, alone, was disturbing. Thankfully I have a great staff and a comfortable futon at the office. After lunch I closed my door and spent an hour wrapped safely in the arms of Morpheus. Those short daytime naps are what kept my engine going.

There is a birthday celebration for my uncle, my mom’s only brother, tomorrow night; rather, tonight, because it’s 3 AM now. My brother and I were planning to attend. It would have been fun to meet and greet all the cousins we haven’t seen for so long. However, he isn’t feeling up to par, it is couple of hours travel each way, and my lack of snoozing doesn’t bode well for the drive either.

I also need to work on papers that, hopefully, will help me negotiate a solution to the existing dilemma on the business front. The consultant I met the other day confirmed my fears; something needs to be done, and rapidly. I briefly outlined the strict plan to my poor associate this afternoon. Although very distracted, he seemed to get the gist of it and reluctantly agreed. I can see no other way out of it, and I can’t help but feel that it’s kicking a man when he’s already down. However, my career and financial well-being are on the line too so, distasteful as it is, I will make every effort to have the plan accepted. It will take intricate preparation, and it has to be ready Monday morning. Fortunately, my sleeping habits, or lack of, make little difference. Computers and numbers don’t care if you use them in the middle of the night, LOL.

That being said, there was a very happy event this week; my sports-minded grandson has not only started high school, he also turned 13 on Wednesday. He’s my daughter’s youngest child. His mom gave him a cellular phone for his birthday, and he has already called me so that I could store his number on my own cell. His party was late this afternoon, and I stopped on the way home to give him his gift and birthday kiss. True to form, he and a number of his buddies were horsing around with scooters outside when I arrived; another grandson in constant movement. The party will end early, because he has his last soccer game tomorrow morning at 8:30, then is playing hockey at 4:30. The wonderful energy of youth!

Seeing words instead of numbers on my screen has been a nice break, but recess is over. I have some fresh tea biscuits, and I believe I’ll lather one with some of Justi’s Secret Kitchen fig jelly and give my taste buds a delicious treat before returning to the work at hand. Now that’s a definite SMILE!!

Have a good weekend, folks. Enjoy the autumn weather!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

Monday, September 13, 2010

BACK TO WORK

Today it’s back to work. I’ve been awake since 4:45, knowing that the rush hour at this time of year is time-consuming, and that I’ll have to leave very early if I want to get to the office at a reasonable hour. I prefer going through the piles on my desk when it is quiet and easier to concentrate, before the employees meet me with their lists, or the telephones ring. Already aware that certain sticky problems are waiting, I can’t say that I’m looking forward to the day. It didn’t used to be like that. Once upon a time I’d have been gung-ho to return and get my teeth into whatever was looming. I’m not certain if it is the situation caused by decisions made by associates, or just plain age, but I’m finding it difficult to stir up any enthusiasm for the tasks at hand. However, I still haven’t lost my determination, so that should get me going; the enthusiasm will hopefully kick in later.

Yesterday was a dull weather day, but soon brightened by hugs and kisses from my three little rug-rats. Their dad did not have the adaptor for my camera though, so I’ll take my friend, Wiley’s, advice and go to Future Shop, camera in hand, and hope they can help me. I want to e-mail the picture of the sunflower to my son and Yoshiko. More than one person suggested that the seed for the isolated beauty was dropped by a bird. It seems to be the only explanation.

My brother was feeling much better yesterday too, so there’s another worry put to bed. We chatted for an hour or so, and I was so pleased that he managed to repair my microwave! The plastic part to hold the door closed had broken. Once again, I didn’t realize how handy the thing was until I could no longer use it.

Well, it’s that time again. Off I go to prepare for my trek into the city. One bright note is the package I have waiting for me there from My Secret Kitchens; I’m anxious to sample the tastes in those various little jars which looked so appetizing on Justi’s blog. The employees were warned to keep their sticky fingers away until I returned to the office, LOL!

Have a great one, folks! May the adventures of this day keep you SMILING!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

THE SURPRISE

I couldn’t believe my eyes when I turned the corner of the driveway. It was standing, tall and beautiful, right beside the little white cross marking the grave of Bow and Yoshiko’s beloved pet, AC. The cat had been buried there a couple of months ago, and more than one tear had been shed by my son and his wife. Now a solitary, bright yellow sunflower graced the site.

I have little knowledge about plants, so have no idea how long it takes a sunflower to grow. It’s true I have been away for a few days, and even before my vacation I was arriving home after dark, so could have missed seeing the flower. Still, I walk down around there often with the doggies, and it seems I’d have noticed it during one of those jaunts. I didn’t. In fact, I’ve never seen sunflowers down there, or anywhere on my property, so the sight yesterday was a delightful surprise. I ran back up to the house and fetched my camera. For once, my pictures turned out good, and I can’t wait to show it to AC’s masters, who still miss her presence.

Camera still in hand, I decided my apple tree merited a few shots, as did the playful antics of Bud and Grump. Louka was sitting higher up on the hill, haughtily watching their games, so I caught one of her too. Then a cluster of plump white and brown mushrooms nestled in the green grass got my attention. I was trigger happy, LOL! My youngest son thinks he may have an adaptor to transfer the pictures from my camera to computer, so I believe I’ll run over to his home today and check it out. If it works, I’ll post some of these pictures.

I hadn’t talked to my brother much since my return, so I tried to contact him twice yesterday. The first time he didn’t answer the phone; I thought he was out and about. The second time he called me back to tell me he had spent the whole day between toilet and his bed, and was not feeling good at all. He must have picked up a virus. His system is still weak after the cancer treatments, so anytime he is sick it’s a cause for worry. We agreed that I would let him rest last night, but today I’ll see him just to make sure things are okay.

I also hadn’t heard from my friend out in Saskatoon for ages, and decided to give her a shout. We did what we always do on the rare occasion we get to chat; opened a bottle of wine and had a long conversation (was it really 4 hours, Karen?) to catch up on our doings. We don’t call each other often enough, but I suspect that, even if we did, the conversations would still last as long; we never seem to run out of something to say.

When I finally got to bed, I found that Morpheus was right there waiting for me. Although not all that long, my sleep was deep and appreciated. This morning it is grey and raining here – just the incentive needed to go through my closet and pull out autumn clothing. Tomorrow is a return to the office, and I know already that my agenda is full.

Vacation is never long enough, especially when one takes so few of them, or ends up working for much of it. Unlike my friend, Kilroy, who was not looking forward to his retirement (but enjoys it now, right?), I find myself longing for it on occasion. I’ll probably change my mind once I get there, LOL!

Hope y’all are enjoying the weekend and that each day gives you reason to SMILE!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

Saturday, September 11, 2010

AND MY RETURN

I’m back. Actually, I finally arrived home around 10:30 PM on Wednesday night. The drive back was slower, caused by a mix of intermittent rain and construction. I dropped Suzie’s sister at her apartment, then stopped in at my daughter’s place. In the ordinary, we chat nearly every day; after me being away we needed to catch up.

The doggies were ecstatic when I walked in the door. They both milled around me for an hour ….I was tripping over one or the other, LOL. I must say they looked fine; the dog sitters, who showed later the day of my departure, were exemplary in their care. Of course! It was my brother, Bird, and Fran who stayed at my place while I was gone, and Bird has a way with animals. Fran also completed the staining of my kitchen windows, and that was a bonus!

A stint in the Jacuzzi was the perfect answer after the long drive. No hot water. Damn! I reset the tank again (now I know I’ll have to buy a new one) and waited 30 minutes. Success! Ten minutes later the electric power flicked, then flicked again, and went off. I decided I was past caring, crawled into bed with the help of a flashlight, and Morpheus claimed me. How sweet it was!

The ring of the phone woke me at 8:30 the next morning. I was to return to work only on Monday, but that didn’t happen. Although I didn’t drive into the office, I was busy, busy, busy all day, alternating between computer, cell phone, and the land line. I didn’t get to attend my granddaughter’s 18th birthday party that night, but I managed to see and congratulate her, and meet her new gift (a Chihuahua puppy) during the day. I was exhausted by 9 PM anyway, so an outing was not in my cards.

Friday was much of the same, except I finally stopped everything around 5 PM and began to prepare a beef bourguignon for my supper guests. This date had been scheduled well in advance, and I was looking forward to it. I was running late, but so were they, so all turned out fine. My guests were Dawna, my friend since high school, and her husband, Malcolm. We spent a most enjoyable evening chatting and looking at slides of their trip to England. The scenery in the pictures was spectacular, particularly Wales with its rugged terrain. I’ll have to go there someday – just seeing the pictures pulled at my heartstrings. Maybe it was in a former life…..

This morning was another rude awakening by the telephone – a problem with my associates. We fixed it best we could, and it is now 1:30 PM on Saturday. I’ve finally had the time to unpack my suitcase and start a washing. Thank heavens the Bird and Fran cleaned the house before leaving, because I think I’d just run away from home if I had housework to do too.

It’s a beautiful, sunshiny day out there. I’ve disconnected the bothersome telephone, and am going to walk down the drive with the doggies. My apple tree, situated near the bottom of Bud’s hill, is sporting delicious McIntosh fruit and begging for admiration, and possible picking. Then tonight I fully intend to sprawl on my gallery with a bottle of red wine, maybe some Pink Floyd, and hug the heck out of my doggies. Next on the agenda are a long Jacuzzi, and an early meeting with Morpheus. I know he’ll be around. I handcuffed the elusive fellow to the bedpost, LOL!

Have a good weekend, folks! Sending you out SMILES!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

WILL I LEAVE?

It’s 10:35. I was to pick Suzie’s sister up at 4 AM, which meant I need to be up around 2:30 AM if I want to be awake enough to drive, plus cover the distance to arrive at her house for that hour. However, seeing how the day unfolded, I decided to call and warn her that I may be a touch late. She was very agreeable, although I know she is anticipating the trip with much excitement. She has never been to visit Suzie’s home, so it will be quite a treat. We agreed that I will phone her when I get out of bed – she’ll have ample time to do her last minute things, and I won’t feel rushed because she is waiting.

I won’t write a list in here, because it will sound like I’m whining, but it seemed that today everything and everybody was throwing obstacles in the path of my planned departure. Delay after delay, all of it leading up to me throwing my hands in the air and yelling ‘What next!!???” and very close “To hell with it. I’m staying home.” Suzie made sure THAT wasn’t going to happen, LOL. She called, and called again, just to tell me how lonesome she was and how she couldn’t wait for our arrival.

So, most things are taken care of now. Except….my dog-sitters, who were supposed to arrive tonight, have promised to show up at least by noon tomorrow. If not…well, besides being livid, I’ll contact my daughter and she’ll come to let the doggies outside for a bit, and make sure they are fed and watered each day. Worse come to worse, I’ll cut my trip short and return on Sunday instead of Tuesday. I have full confidence that Shan can deal with them until then.

The idea of shutting off my cell-phone won’t work either, but that can be taken in stride too. Hey – when we have NO work we’re allowed to complain; it won’t kill me to take a couple of calls. The timing for this vacation fell right into the period where most companies are back from holidays and ready for business, and the requests are coming in. I’ll be smarter next time and try taking my vacation during the same months as most of the clients do. We live and learn…even at 60, LOL.

Obviously, my idea of making it an early night is scrapped. I have filled my Jacuzzi while writing this, so will now try to seduce my friend Morpheus. A long drive in the rain, and sleepy to boot, is NOT a good idea. Then again, although Suzie’s sister can’t share the driving, she can chatter enough to make sure I stay awake.

In spite of the hassles, I can’t help but be pleased with this day. The doctors confirmed that, although the biopsy showed malignant cells, the operation was successful and there is no more sign of cancer in my brother’s mouth, throat, or tongue. They are quite certain that the spot on his lungs is only pneumonia, and have promised to give him an earlier date for his scan. Relief!! And the idiot bro of mine dared to grouch that our trip to the city was for nothing!! He came very close to needing the hospital for wounds inflicted by his sister!! He did agree that his grumbling was stupid when faced with the other possible diagnosis. DUH!

Okay, I’m outta here! Once again sending SMILES and hopes that you’ll all have a great weekend!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

AND THE RAIN COMETH

I read Kilroy’s blog this morning, and part of his message did not please me. After so many beautiful (although hot) days of sunshine, it is going to rain on the one I picked to drive to Detroit. I checked on The Weather Network Site, and it warns me that there will be similar weather all the way down - the whole 8 to 10 hours. That means I need to get new windshield wipers as soon as my brother and I get back from his appointment at the hospital today. Poor Kilroy is heading east, and he will be seeing the same conditions. Bah! Humbug!

What’s more, the Network predicts rain for my full stay at Suzie’s, with only Tuesday, the day we drive back, being sunny. That doesn’t matter so much, I guess. Suzie’s home is actually in Troy, a nice suburb, with a huge, fenced backyard, lots of parasols, and an open garage. So rain or shine we’ll be sitting outside. I’m not in the money these days, so there won’t be much shopping. I will, of course, drop in at Barnes & Nobles. I can’t drive by that store – my truck turns into its parking lot automatically, LOL! You can practically inhale the scent of thousands of new books before you even open the door. Paradise!

I arrived home late from the office last night. Traffic was heavy. It was so nice to finally relax on the quiet of my gallery. A beautiful evening, stars galore, and the only noise was that of the doggies scrambling off now and then to see whatever had caught their attention in the bush. My brother and his friend, Fran, will be house & doggie sitting while I’m away, and I know Bird really enjoys being outside here. He tells me that the air is different, fresher, and he finds it much easier to breathe. He and Fran will stay over tonight so that I can show them where things are, the doggies’ routine, Bud’s medication, etc.

I spoke by telephone to both my sons last night. My eldest was upset. Yesterday morning he awoke to find that thieves had broken into his car, which was parked in the driveway of his new house, and had stolen his GPS, his Cell phone, his Fed Ex badge, his new sunglasses. To add insult to injury, they left both doors open, so his battery was dead too. He hasn’t been living in that area very long, and complained that such a thing never happened when he was living downtown Montreal. Poor guy was NOT having a good day.

I’m taking my laptop with me for my trip, but I am not sure how much time I’ll have to use it, other than for a couple of hours work. This will probably be my last post until I get back next week.

Have good trip, my friend, Kilroy, and to all of you I wish a great long weekend. I’ll post my adventures when I return – if I remember them. Suzie is sitting waiting on me with a bottle of tequila in hand, LOL!

SMILES for you folks!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.