MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

I really don’t know how I ever managed (because once upon a time I could), being part of the rat-race and having any kind of time for other things. I’m still waiting for that moment when my brain catches up to my body...or vice versa...and it doesn’t seem to be happening. My email box has over 500 messages NOT read, there are more than 10 in my voicemail too Helen tells me, I don’t dare count the envelopes stacked unopened on the table, and I still don’t seem to find enough hours to sleep.

But...it’s Christmas tomorrow...there are only 2 days off for family and friends I’ve been missing, so I’ll take care of all that next year!

Wanted to come in and tell you that I have been reading off and on, and to wish you all a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! My gift to you? A big, huge, loving SMILE!!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

ON NOT BEING AMBIDEXTROUS...

I don’t think it’s the job alone, but the travel and the re-adapting to being away from home 5 days a week for 12 hours at a time...or maybe it’s age. Whatever, I’m not finding it easy. Then I did one better; when taking Grump for his walk last Saturday, I slipped on ice, went down, and badly sprained my RIGHT wrist. Fortunately I could move my fingers so, well aware that I am still a ‘newbie’, armed with ice pack and extra-strength Advil, I was able to work all week anyway. I admit that by the time I got back to the house each evening I was dragging butt and whining in pain, complaining about NOT being ambidextrous! Ah well, the swelling is down now, but my arm is black from the wrist to the elbow and still sore. I use it as little as possible outside the office.

Soon will be just another memory. Helen being here for the fires and the doggies helped enormously.

If I wanted any more proof that animals are sensitive to their human’s condition, Grump and Smooch provided it with their actions. We have a hockey game ritual. I turn on the TV and sit on the couch, and the doggies approach. They stand, one on each side of me, and Mistress scratches their ears, their necks under the collars, their backs...using both hands at the same time. They couldn’t help but notice how I was favoring my right arm after the fall, of course. That evening, instead of coming one to each side as usual, they lined up to my left; Smooch was first, and Grump stood behind him, waiting patiently for his turn...like cars going through an automatic wash. They did that off and on all week. I know my arm is healing now because last night they went back to the old routine, LOL!

I visited Blogit regularly – need that fix – but was limiting my arm movements as much as possible, saving it for work, so rarely made a comment. I should be right as rain in a few days, and will be back in to give my two-cents worth! Until then I send my friends south of the border a belated Happy Thanksgiving, and those wishes are accompanied by a huge, warm SMILE!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

ONCE UPON A TIME....

Time was already hurrying by, but now it has quickened its pace! This lady is hard put to keep up. When I leave the house in the morning, it is dark; when I get home in the evening, it is still dark.

My doggies are pining for more exercise. Helen would gladly walk out with them, but I worry that the stupid neighbor let his mongrels loose, and she would never be able to hold my boys if they decide to chase. I was hoping to get a fence in before the ground freezes, but it is financially impossible for the moment, so I fear we will all have to endure until spring rolls around. In the meantime, walks are mostly restricted to weekends. I suppose they could get enough exercise by chasing the cats around the house, but Mistress has forbidden that antic.

I say ‘cats’ because Dora will be joining us next week. Now that the new baby, Léna, had arrived, Dora is no longer allowed inside Grandson’s house; Léna’s Mommy worries that she’ll bring disease. My grandson is calling the vet today to arrange for Dora’s needles, after which she will be subjected (finally) to the big ‘O’, then she’ll move in here with Bandit and Smooch and Grump. Both dogs know her, and Bandit, being male, will hopefully be happy for her company, and Dora will escape having to brave the winter weather. And Helen will learn to live with TWO cats...which she professes to hate, LOL!

There are positive aspects. The money, whenever it starts coming in. The realization that I can still put up with traffic jams without going into a tizzy... or road rage. The fact that my brain is waking up – it has to if I want to keep up to the young lassies a work, who maybe lack experience but are certainly rapid super girls on computers or related equipment!

Ah well – everything happens for a reason. And I am working at the part of accounting I like the best, so all is well in the Bush. Although I haven’t much time to read, or even less to write, the snow is falling, Christmas is around the corner, and I’m still SMILING!!

Sharing with y’all, of course!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THERE IS A NEW GIRL...

I apologize for my prolonged silence, folks. It’s taking me some time to get into a smooth routine here. The commute to the new job is anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes each way, depending on the traffic, and there are 2 doggies, and now a kitty, who are finding the change not at all to their liking. They are demanding attention in the before and after hours. I also kept the couple of small clients I had, and their stuff needs to be done too. The most important thing is that I now see a light at the end of that financially-harassed tunnel and no longer fear losing my home.

During my absence my great granddaughter, Léna, was born. I haven’t had the pleasure to meet her yet; that’s a plan for this afternoon. Both mommy and baby are doing well; grandson Fred, who assisted his daughter’s birth, even to cutting the cord himself, is ecstatic and proud as a peacock, and my daughter is glowing with that special aura reserved for first-time grand mammas.

Another thing that needs to be done today is the introduction of Bandit to two very curious pit-bulls. Bandit has been enclosed in my bedroom for the first week, except during night hours when doors are closed, allowing him to roam and get familiar with his new habitat without the attendance of Grump and Smooch. Each is aware that the other is there, but I have yet to have them interact. The dogs were used to grandson’s female cat - she grew up here – but this is a new, 3 year old male, also used to dogs, but not THESE dogs. Helen was quite adamant that I be present for the event, with good reason, but I was too tired during the week and yesterday was spent doing errands, a long walk with the dogs (who get very little during the week) and catching up on tasks in the house.

If there is any day to help me forget that I have once again joined the rat-race, it is this wonderful Sunday! We have at least 3 inches of snow outside, and it is still falling; the fires are burning cheerfully, a good part of my time will be spent cooking for the week ahead, and I’ll be cuddling the sweet little newborn, surrounded by family. What more could a lady want?

I am so SMILING!! And because I’ve been storing them up, there is a whole whack of SMILES going out your way...big and warm and happy!!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

NOT MUCH...

Yesterday:
The forecast says that my area is in for a wild windstorm, which will probably cause a power outage. Helen has not yet experienced that since her move, and I warned her to be prepared – we often have them during the winter. Storms seem fiercer here somehow, or felt more, maybe because of being so high up, and the wires running through all those trees are susceptible to being damaged. Helen is also nervous about negotiating my hill when the snow comes, with good reason, and has decided to look into purchasing a 4-wheel drive. We’ll be out visiting garages this afternoon.

Unfortunately there will be no little goblins visiting us tonight. We are too far out – and be truthful. Would you want to wander around in the deep, dark forest on spooky Halloween night? No amount of candy...right?

And today:
No sooner said than done. This afternoon we’ll be picking up a new 4 wheel drive; it took Helen all of one hour to make the decision, sign papers, and she is no longer worried about getting stuck anywhere on our bush roads. That lady doesn’t fool around! Most of the time yesterday was spent trying out the vehicle, doing the paperwork...and reassuring her that it is okay to spend money on herself – she tends to give it away to others instead.

It has been raining for the last 24 hours, much to my doggies’ disappointment, but we have not yet had the winds as predicted. TWN are telling us it will be today instead, and are still warning about possible power outages. Hopefully it won’t happen during the HABS game tonight, although I’m not sure how much hockey I will see with 3 Rug rats clamouring for attention. In the future when my son asks me to babysit, I’ll remember to check the schedule before giving my answer!!

No news on the potential job yet, but they did say I was the first interviewed, and there were others to see before making their decision. I know they want to hire ASAP, so expect I’ll hear before the weekend. In the meantime, I have applied elsewhere, but in surrounding areas; I want to avoid driving right down into the city if possible.

That’s it for now, folks. Hope you have a great weekend, that you don’t get sick eating too much candy, and sending you a big, cheerful SMILE!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

UPDATE

Wow – it was a lively two weeks! Each morning I was out of the house by 7 AM and returned anywhere from 5 to 9 PM, weekends included. The contract is done now – it didn’t turn into full time; for the moment they neither have room at their office, nor are they quite ready to hire more employees. I was helping with the accounting procedures required for the transition from one owner to another. It did lead to an interview for a position in another company, however, which took place this morning. I shall get word back by the end of the week.

It was a new experience for me, being interviewed. Any job I can remember, except for my very first one, was obtained through word of mouth...a friend who knew a friend with an opening...and the job was mine if I wanted it, usually before I walked in the door. Because I didn’t move around often, I have not had to actively search and meet. Goes to show one is never too old to learn. I’m not sure if I helped or hindered my case when they asked me what my notion of an ideal employer would be, and I replied ‘Brad Pitt’.

I made time to take Grump back to the vet, and he did have infection in the mangled ear. The blood had seeped inside, so cleaning and antibiotics were required...another $150. Smooch’s wounds are healing well, so I have gathered all the vet bills and will be contacting the neighbor tonight. His cheque should be coming in tomorrow and I want payback!

I’ll also be inheriting a kitty – my daughter’s BF’s dog and the cat do not get along. The poor puss spends his whole day hiding under the couch. Although Helen declares that she is not a cat-lover, she agreed that she dislikes mice even more, so has decided that Puss is the lesser of two evils. Grump and Smooch will accept him if I ask them to do so, and my daughter wants him in a good home. He should be introduced to his new quarters this Saturday.

I gave in and agreed to babysit my Rug rats again this Friday night, the main reason being that the starting time was changed to 6:30, so I’ll be able to spend some hours playing with them instead of just being there while they sleep. I had forgotten that the Habs will be playing hockey; I wonder how much deviltry they can cause while Mémère is distracted? I’ll get back to you on that one.

And to close, I am happy to tell y’all that we had our first snow last Saturday, and they say we’ll get more this week! I danced like an excited little kid – Helen wept, LOL!! The chimneys will be cleaned this weekend and there will be lovely wood fires to enjoy, plus wonderful views on the mountain....this lady is SMILING!!!

Sharing those SMILES with you, as always.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

AND POOR GRUMP...

Oh boy – this lady is going to be functioning in slow motion today, not advisable when juggling numbers. The doggies kept me awake most of the night. Smooch was coming in and out of my room – woke me the first time by putting his nose right on mine, then wandered around and around the bed, his nails clicking on the floor. I got up and opened the door, thinking he wanted to go out, but no – that wasn’t it. After a short stint of lying, but not quietly, in my closet, he finally returned to his couch. I still don’t know what it was all about. The wounds on his bum and leg are still open but don’t seem to be infected.

It wasn’t an hour later than it was Grump’s turn to invade my sleeping quarters, shaking his head over and over, whimpering and scratching at his ear. It was torn during the fight last Friday; the vet told me to keep an eye on it but didn’t think there would be a problem. Both dogs are still on antibiotics for infection, but Grump’s ear needs to be looked at again. He’s walking with his head to one side and it’s quite obvious he’s in pain. Much like what happens with babies, these things always seem to take place in the middle of the night, or on weekends when no expert is available for immediate help...without enormous cost, that is.

I have to be at work this morning. Fortunately the boss lady loves dogs, owns bull mastiffs too, so hopefully will be willing to allow me the couple of hours required to race back home and take poor Grump to his doc. I hate to see him in pain. I also hate to think of the additional costs; I am planning to hand the all the vet bills to my idiot neighbor, but he is on some kind of work compensation pension, so I doubt there will be any relief from that end.

On the up side, I was able to visit my friends on Sunday, the ones I had cancelled on because of the dog fight last week. It was a most pleasant time spent with very pleasant people; a must-repeat-more-often exercise.

Now it’s that time again...get dressed and go, go, go! I’ll wish you all a great day and, of course, one filled with SMILES! Sending you out mine to start things off......

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THE BAD AND THE GOOD

A week ago Friday I was up and dressed early. The weather was perfect for the planned 3 hour journey (Like Nautikos, I love to drive) and I was happily looking forward to the visit with dear friends; there would be fun conversation and a delicious Thanksgiving meal. Responsibilities first, of course, so I leashed the doggies and we went out for our morning walk. Thirty minutes later all hell broke loose!

We were in my driveway at the bottom of my hill, both my boys still on their long leashes, when the neighbour’s 3 mongrels came tearing out of the bush – not a bark, no sound at all – and attacked!!

I won’t go into all the gory details, except to tell you that it took both that idiot (the neighbour) and me a good half hour to separate the 5 animals. We would get two apart, be hanging on, and another two would start again. It was pure bedlam with dogs, leashes, bushes and trees and ME all tangled up, teeth gnashing, growling, pulling....not one of them weighs less than 100 pounds ...and I was so furious that I came close to letting the animals fight it out while I seriously hurt their owner!

Instead of the wonderful time I had been anticipating, I ended up, once again, at the vet’s office, first with Grump, then with Smooch. All the dogs will survive, but my boys (and his too) are in pain and on medication AGAIN, it cost me another 700$ I don’t have (Thank Heavens for my son, Bow) and that b_stard neighbour’s excuse for his dogs being loose was that I wasn’t usually outside so early. I was on my own property, right? It doesn’t matter WHAT time I am out!! As for the authorities? They repeated the advice to install a fence.

By evening we were all limping badly. I had hurt my knee in the fracas, and Helen used my office chair to wheel me to bed because I could no longer put weight on the left leg. The right one was badly scratched too, but was endurable. Now, a week later, the doggies are still on medication and have to be kept indoors for fear of infecting their open wounds, and I’m still taking pain killers, although the swelling has thankfully gone down and I can walk decently again. The disappointment in having to cancel the day with my friends was nearly as bad as anything else that happened that day.

On the up side, a lady, for whom I had made a job referral some months ago, contacted me last Thursday, wondering if I would be willing to work with her. The Company (who did hire her) had a mess in the accounting department and she needed help to get it back on track. I was quick to accept – the money situation has become dire – and am now into the getting up and dressed and off to the rat race by 7 AM each morning. We’ve been putting in long days, so I return home quite late and will be, in fact, working today (Saturday) also. This may, or may not, turn into fulltime employment, but both she and I are hoping for the best. In the meantime, I am grateful, both for the income and the fact that Helen is here for the doggies.

I’m slowly getting used to the hustle again. I think the hardest thing is having to get dressed in the morning – I was enjoying being part of the jammie brigade. My writing is suffering, what with the travel, the work, and the twice-daily cleansing of both my doggies’ wounds; I still need to adapt, especially in organising my time, something I’ve never been much good at anyway.

Speaking of which – I need to get ready, so will wish you a belated Happy Canadian Thanksgiving, wish you a great weekend, and am sending y’all a big SMILE!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

JUST CHIT-CHAT

We’ll be treated to a Japanese menu for one part of our Thanksgiving this year. My son and Yoshiko will be doing the honors at their city house on Saturday night. An international gathering; English, French, Japanese and German, with French being the common one for communication within the group. Supper will be followed by the hockey game, of course, at least for the men and yours truly.

For Sunday, Helen has invited her ex-hubby (who is still a very good friend), and her son to share a traditional turkey/ pumpkin pie meal here at home. Helen and I have a firm deal; I do the cooking and she does the clean-up. Perfect! My son and Yoshiko may attend too, but my daughter will be with her significant other’s family because there is also a birthday party happening there, and my youngest (the Rug rats’ daddy) will be away at his annual moose hunting camp.

My grandson called his mom this morning, slightly panicked because his little GF spent the night in pain with false contractions. As my daughter declared to me, but certainly not to Fred, “They ain’t seen nothing yet!” The baby is due in approximately 3 weeks, hopefully on October 27th, her daddy’s birthday. A new generation, and the first for this family, so we’re all looking forward to the big event.

No success on the job search yet. Fortunately I still have a few things to be done here and there from previous clients; not enough to make a decent wage, but every little bit helps. I figure the right thing will come along eventually; it usually does.

In the meantime, I am enjoying our fine October weather and the awesome colors everywhere in the bush and on my mountain. I can’t help but think of Bird, and the many hours we spent together admiring the same view from my gallery. It doesn’t seem possible that this coming Monday will make it two years since he passed over.

The doggies are standing at the door giving me the walk-time look, so I’ll wish y’all a great day, and to start it right, or end it right, depending from which part of the world you are reading this, I send you a big SMILE. A hug with that?

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

DON'T TAKE SMOOCH!!

I was strolling with Smooch in the small village square. He was being really good in spite of people milling around us. He came along quietly, sniffing here and there and not pulling on his leash as he is prone to do when he sees other interesting humans that he could maybe smell, or lick, or award some love nips. I was proud of my huge doggie.

I heard the motorcycles before I saw them. I turned to look as they rode up the street. Damn! They were rolling too close to where we were standing. Smooch loves to run with bikes. I tightened my grip on his leash.

The bikes made a U-turn and roared off in the other direction, and what I feared is exactly what happened. Smooch lunged to the chase. I braced myself, yelling at him to STOP!, and clenched with both hands onto the sturdy, plastic handle of his long leash, which all of a sudden seemed to be longer than normal. Then he was dragging me, but I was determined to not let go. I had to run to keep from falling; hollering his name to COME, praying that the leash wouldn’t break.

The bikes took the corner, and Smooch covered the small, grassy patch beside the curb with two bounds, but, thankfully, his leash got caught up on a waist high picket fence that separated the grass from the sidewalk. There were young men standing there, and I saw two of them quickly grab at Smooch and bend towards the fence. I couldn’t really gage how the dog reacted because 3 or 4 of the group walked in front of me at that moment, blocking my sight and my rush to reach my runaway. I figured the first two were untangling his leash and I pressed the button that rolls the excess length back in, which would haul him to me. I was still trying to politely move around the lads in my road, calling out ‘Excuse me!’

My heart skipped a beat when the leash hook snapped back into the handle EMPTY!

Oh no!! They had unhooked Smooch instead of just freeing him! If my strong doggie could squirm out of their hands, he would take off after the bikes again!

Forget being polite!! I pushed at the guy standing closest to where I was, and he turned towards me, avoiding my eyes by looking over my head, hardly budging. It seemed to be deliberate. What the....??

I shoved again, craning to peer around him. What I saw stopped my breathing– the two who had unsnapped Smooch were towing him the other way!!!

"Hey!” I bellowed. “Hey – what are you doing?? That’s my dog!!!” This time I smacked the dude in front of me – hard! There was no wondering now; he and his buddies were purposely not only obstructing my path, but were attempting to hinder my view of what was happening. Frantically dodging this way and that let me catch glimpses of Smooch braking and pulling backwards, struggling to escape these strangers. The men lifted his front paws off the ground; they were half carrying him, and would soon be out of my sight altogether!

I heard a voice remark that such a huge pit makes a good, mean dog in the ring. Panic squeezed my gut! This was a set-up!! They had targeted my Smooch – they were stealing my sweet doggie to make him a fighter!!

I went ballistic!! Someone was holding my arms to keep me from following. I pulled, I pushed, I twisted and jerked and started to kick...and I SCREAMED Smooch’s name... and because they were holding me fast, I SCREAMED again, and kept screaming....and I woke up from one of the worst nightmares I have ever had in my life.

The emotions were so strong that nausea interfered with my morning coffee. The day’s activity mellowed things out, but the dream lingered. I lost count how many times I hugged my doggies.

When I got into bed last night, Smooch came into my room. He put his big head on my mattress next to my face, licked my nose, then settled down on the floor, as close as possible to where I was lying without actually getting up beside me. One would almost think that he had experienced the same nightmare.

I fell to sleep with my hand hanging down, touching his ears. I didn’t hear when he left for his couch where he normally spends the night, and where I found him this morning. He looked up as soon as I stepped into the kitchen, yawned widely, and I swear there was a doggie-grin. I could imagine his reassuring drawl. “You okay now? We’re all still here, Cupcake.”

Yes, yes, I know - my imagination. But I felt it, so it was real, and my doggie’s caring...and even just his being here... made me SMILE.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

RUNT & RUG RATS

After twice putting the runt kitten back into the box with its sibling, I found it again out on the floor, this time a distance from Mama Dora and her healthy baby. I brought the poor, tiny thing upstairs, went over the ‘Orphan or Neglected Kitten How-to’ advice I had printed from the internet, and prepared to spend the next few days being a nurse of sorts. Helen, who claims to not like cats at all, appeared with one of her little teddy bears and a piece of flannel, in which she wrapped a plastic bottle filled with heated water. Both were added to the new bed for our patient.

I had been calling the kitten Runt, and we decided it was as good a name as any. The first feeding went quite well; Runt wasn’t sucking but did swallow a spoonful from the dropper. Following the directions, I gently massaged his sides and belly to help digestion, and noted that the bones in the back end were badly deformed. I doubted very much if Runt would ever be able to walk properly. After rubbing his wee bum with a warm, wet cotton ball to encourage elimination, I settled him into his box. He immediately cuddled up to the teddy bear and bottle, and fell to sleep. It wasn’t quite 2 hours later when he mewled, and the procedure was repeated.

I had installed him in my office so that he would be close by as I worked, and out of reach of two very curious doggies. It was late when I finally decided to set the alarm clock and get some sleep. I leaned over to check on him again before running my bath, even if it had only been an hour since his last feeding, and discovered that my little Runt had crossed over to Rainbow Bridge. I felt sad, as did Helen when I told her the next morning, but know that his last hours were spent in a warm, comfy place and not discarded on the corner of a cold floor. Mama Dora’s instincts had been right all along; I just didn’t agree with her method which, of course, is the only one she knows.

Fred came to pick up Dora and her remaining kitten on Saturday while I was with my Rug rats. Helen gave him the news, but I think he was expecting that result all along. A forever home is already found and waiting until the healthy baby is old enough, then Fred plans to have Dora’s hysterectomy done so there will be no more litters. A good move!!

The Rug rats and Mémère had a great time together, although it left me wondering how I had handled them full time for the 5 months they lived with me. I definitely needed a rest when it was over! I also discovered that I’m no longer as adept on the trampoline as is the three year old Tao; I bounce higher but come down with far less grace!!

The sun was shining as I drove home. Is that what caused the colors of the bush road to be more vibrant than usual? Or was it because I was still basking in the hugs and kisses and giggles from my three grandsons?

A combination of the two, no doubt, making me drunk on beauty and love. And making that SMILE a whole lot bigger! Enough to go around, so sending y’all your share.....

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

READY? AIM! AND SUCK 'EM UP!!

While running some errands yesterday I met a friend who reads my blog, and she warned me that the little beasties invading my house, which I thought were ladybugs, were more likely to be Asian Beetles. She mentioned the difference between the two types of insects, and suggested that I get additional information from the internet. I did, and she is right, so out will come the vacuum cleaner this afternoon for cleanup. According to the sources, one should wait until the warm sun coaxes them from hiding. Helen, the indomitable Mrs. Clean, is ecstatic; I’ve been against her doing this ever since the bugs showed up. Now she is armed and ready!

Update on the kitten? I visited the vet while in town, told her about my fear, and purchased the proper milk and a miniscule feeding bottle just in case it would be needed....like in the middle of the night when her office is closed. She explained that if the runt is still alive it is because Momma Dora is caring for it, which is the best thing for the baby. However, if I see that Dora tries to move it again, then I should intercede. I went down a few times during the evening, and again this morning, and all seems well, although both kittens were on the floor beside their box this time. I put them back in and they cuddled up. I did note that the bigger one makes no sound, while the runt mewled once when I set it down beside its sibling. Because Dora comes to meet me when she hears me on the stairs, I haven’t yet had the chance to actually see her feeding them, so have no idea whether they are each getting the appropriate share or not. I shall be extra vigilant from now on.

My youngest son contacted me yesterday, wondering if I could keep the Rug rats on Saturday morning. He is to continue his flying lessons, and the boys want to come here. For all my previous determination that I would NEVER again babysit, I miss my little guys, and it is only until noon, so I hardly hesitated before I agreed. It will be the first time since their move that I will see them without one parent or the other being present. Hmmm – lots of chocolate treats, maybe - energy builder for the afternoon, which they will spend at home. Nah – I couldn’t be that mean (snicker).

Our country road is a canopy of breathtaking colors, the various shades of red and orange and gold with evergreens as contrast. It’s difficult to focus on driving with such scenery. Glorious is Mother Nature, and as we gaze at her special gift, I’m sure I’m not the only one SMILING!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

A KITTEN KEEPER?

While I was in Detroit, Miss Dora, the hussy belonging to my grandson, Fred, gave birth to 3 kittens. When Fred found her, she was birthing in the litter box (she is very young, and this is her first time), and her kitten was dead. He installed her in the bathroom with a proper box, where she had 2 more babies – a chubby, normal sized, black and white kitty, and a tiny runt, all grey.

Because Fred and his GF are painting and doing whatever renovations in their new house, they have not been staying here since Dora’s big event. I go down 3 or 4 times a day, give her fresh food and water, and clean her litter box. I don’t touch the kittens, but do cuddle Dora, of course. Mommy needs some company and loving too!
I noticed that the larger kitten mostly sleeps, but now and then the little runt was moving around and mewling.

This morning, on my second visit after feeding, I saw that the runt was no longer in the box. I found it rolling around on its back behind a mattress. I’m not sure if I interrupted Dora in the process of moving BOTH her kittens, or if she is planning to rid herself of this little dude.

I’m more a dog-person. I’ve owned cats, but they were 10 weeks old and in perfect health when my own mother talked me into adopting them. AC and DC became the property and much loved pets of my son and his Japanese bride when I moved back to the bush. What I am saying here is that this is a new experience for me – and I’m wondering how it should be handled. I did look up some information on the internet, and see that I may need to get an eyedropper and special milk to help the poor little mite...IF, indeed, Dora has decided that she wants no part of it. If I understand what I read, the feeding should happen every 2 to 3 hours, day and night??!!

I guess the best thing to do is wait a couple of hours to see if Dora tries to move it out of the box again, and prepare myself for nursing duty if that does happen. Any suggestions from knowing cat lovers out there would be much appreciated!!

In the meantime, I’m sending you SMILES – big, sunny ones to go with the beautiful weather presently favoring my neck of the woods!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

AGE & LADYBUGS & ALEXIA

A busy, busy 3 days; quite active on the physical as well as the emotional level, one could safely say. It’s not my story, so I can’t really permit myself to write about it. Suffice it to say that Helen will be spending her weeks here now - finally. To ease the transition and keep her busy, I took her window shopping today, showed her how to use an automated carwash (how about that, FSI?), and she bought her first bottle, ever in her life, in a liquor commission –Bailey’s Irish Cream. Ha-ha!! She had some in coffee when we got back home, and I expect the rest will stay in the cupboard for a year or so.

What is most important is that we spent the day LAUGHING. That lady so needs to learn how to enjoy herself, to giggle for nothing, to make Happy Bubbles, to live for the moment. At one point she told me she wanted to wash the stairs that come up from the garage to the house. I didn’t tell her she shouldn’t, or couldn’t. Instead I showed her where the cleaning stuff and the water pails were, and let her go to it. Damn – I mean – the lady is 72 and should know what she is able or not able to do. If not, she’ll learn quickly enough. It’s a ‘live and let live’ policy in my house. It took her about an hour, the stairs look fantastic, and she was happy with the result. It’s not my idea of a good time, but whatever rings one’s bell.....

It has to be difficult when you get to the age where your children try to dictate what is good, or not, for you. My own kids have attempted it once, each in turn, but my glare told them to back off, which they did. I know they mean well, and expect most of our children do, but – hey – we’re not THERE yet!! I’ll pay my own consequences, thank you very much. Helen feels the same way, but had trouble expressing it. I spent a good hour giving her examples on how to say ‘NO’ without making a fuss. I think the lady has got it!

On a completely different note, we both noticed how my house is being invaded by ladybugs. I remember having the same thing happen a couple of years ago. I have nothing against ladybugs, mind you, but there are so many!! I don’t really appreciate them dropping on my head when I’m sitting in my office, or walking around my food in the kitchen, or trying to share my bed. Is anyone else seeing this, or is it just in my bush? I don’t want to take out RAID and destroy them, so am hoping that the colder weather predicted will send them off to hibernate, or whatever they do in the winter.

On a completely other note again, I want to thank all of you who helped with prayers for Alexia. The tests show that the meningitis is of the virus induced type, and not bacterial, which apparently is a good thing; her fever has been absent for the past 24 hours, and all seems normal for the moment. The little warrior has won this battle. Her grandmother, very aware of the power of prayer, asked me to forward her gratitude.

And that’s it for today. I think my hours of sleep since Friday morning number something like 10; certainly not enough, even for me. Helen is snoozing, as are my doggies after their long walk, and my Jacuzzi is waiting. I send y’all a big, warm SMILE!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

ALONE AGAIN

An update on Alexia: Her fever had starting rising again and the antibiotics they have been giving her are causing much discomfort in her intestines, so poor wee girl is crying a lot. They have done tests to determine what type of bacteria/virus is causing this, and should have the results today, which will help for treatment. I forwarded your prayers to her grandmother, who is very grateful, and asks if we could continue until this little lady is out of danger.

Yesterday it felt weird, but not a bad weird, to find myself alone in my house again. Since my grandson signed the papers at the notary last Friday, he and his GF have been spending their days and nights at their own house, painting and preparing for the arrival of my first great granddaughter who is expected at the end of October. They were very fortunate – the house comes completely furnished (except for baby stuff), because the owner was moving out west and didn’t want the bother of shipping the contents. Helen is still spending her weekdays with her son, so will arrive on Friday night, and leaves again late Sunday afternoon, and that means the weekdays are back to me and the doggies.

Oh – and Dora, my grandson’s female cat, with her two new babies, which were born while I was away. They are still downstairs in the apartment, with one of her two humans dropping in daily to check up on and feed her. They’ll wait until the babies are a couple of weeks old before introducing the little family to their new home. I go down and offer cuddles and pieces of chicken as a special treat for Mama Kitty, but do no more than glance at the kittens to make sure they are still there and okay; we don’t need Dora getting worried and hiding them somewhere else, which cats tend to do with their young if there are too many visitors.

The result is that I can do my laundry and vacuuming during the night without the fear of waking anyone. I can also yell and dance to my heart’s desire when cheering on my HABS, who are playing pre-season games already, or throw balls to end of the hall for Grump and Smooch because no one will complain about the racket those two make as they skid across the floor in the chase. I’m enjoying this!

In fact, I’m considering not renting the apartment, at least for the winter. I had an electrician make an estimate to install a separate box and wiring; it is far too expensive to have done at the moment. When I compare the cost of hydro with it rented or empty, I was PAYING to have my grandson live down there with the rate I was charging. Without separate controls, the income needed would be far too high, unless I could find someone who is able and willing to pay such an amount to live out here in the bush, and who owns a 4 wheel drive or wouldn’t mind the long walk up the lane in the winter. In the meantime, with Helen using the top floor, it leaves room for family and friends when they need to stay over.

The sun has come up now, and I can hear my boys waking up. They’ll be looking to go out into the early morning sunshine, and I have another busy day ahead, translating my CV to French, and researching potential employment, so I’ll wish you all a good day, and am sending you each a huge SMILE to start it off - hope you enjoy receiving as much as I do giving!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

HOME AGAIN.

Home again!

The drive to Detroit was without incident and the time spent with Suzie is always good. Instead of visiting my favorite American department stores on this trip, we searched out flea markets. Suzie’s sister, who had come down with me, is an avid fan of such events.

It was interesting. At the Veterans’ regular Sunday sale, I found books, hardcover, old and new, best sellers and less known, each for 50 cents. Talk about happy!!

I tend to chat with strangers, and there was no exception made here, even if Suzie is a bit leery of the area. I was reading the back cover of one of my purchases as I strolled along and lifted my head just in time to avoid landing in the lap of a wheelchair bound, rather corpulent, bearded ex-soldier.

“Whoa!” he said, smiling, probably at my startled expression.

“So sorry!” I grinned, and put my hand on his arm as I did so; partly to apologize and partly to keep my balance.

“Ah – and now we can dance!” he grinned back. Purposely, I studied him and his chair for a second.

“And my dancing will be about as good as yours right now." I winked. The lady standing beside me looked mortified, but he threw his head back and laughed loudly. Later, as we were driving out of the parking area, he threw me a salute, and I gave him the ‘Peace’ sign; it was a special moment in an ordinary day.

We went to Mexican town and ate authentic and delicious food in the same restaurant I frequent whenever I’m in Detroit. There was an accident on the freeway so we were obliged to detour through streets I had not yet seen.

It was disturbing; beautiful old homes which have been reduced to slums, abandoned and heartbreaking in the obvious lack of care. Here and there would be an attempt to keep poverty at bay with a few flowers, a children’s play area, a clean yard; a brave spark among ruins created by the arrival of the drug trade and the municipal corruption so evident in the news lately. In spite of the scene, those little rays of hope reinforced my belief that there are people still working to make things right.

It was 6 AM and dark when we left to come back on Monday morning. We were only a short distance from her house, not yet on the freeway, when my truck began making strange...and bad...noises. I called Suzie to warn her we were turning back. After a visit to a garage that her husband uses on a regular basis, and the installation of new back brakes, it was noon before we were on our way again. It meant reaching Toronto at rush hour, so it was 10:30 PM before I was able to walk into my home and comfort my lonely, and hungry, doggies. There was no way I could get to bed before spending a good hour caring for and cuddling and assuring them that I was just going to my room and not out the door. I slept well and woke to find both of my pets on the floor by my bed instead of in their usual places on their couches.

Today was spent catching up on some work (although Helen left the house spic and span), and revising my CV, selecting some potential job sites, and walking with my boys along the driveway, admiring the glorious autumn colors of the trees. I reflected on how nice it is to come back home, and I SMILED.

Your share is already on its way to y’all!

PS: On my arrival, I received an email from a dear friend whose granddaughter, Alexia, born on August 10th this year, is in the hospital seriously ill with meningitis. We all know the power of prayer, and I would greatly appreciate that you could offer yours for this baby. Thank you!!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THE STORM BEFORE THE CALM?

If ever I get a little bored and want some activity around here (other than the usual stuff, I mean) all I need to do is plan a trip somewhere; it never fails!

Tomorrow morning I am to leave for Detroit to visit Suzie for the weekend. This trip had been planned for months now, long before the menace of losing my last regular client (a done deal now), or my grandson finalizing the purchase of his first house and decision to move on Saturday, or a sudden call to meet with persons unknown for a new business proposal (NOT!), or an old friend showing up with intricate and pressing tax problems requesting my help, or my Japanese DIL being called for a medical procedure in the city and needing a lift home, or Helen’s visit to a lawyer in another part of the city where she needed a driver.....and I could go on with the surprises popping up during the week but those were the highlights. Except maybe for the HABS scheduling the first of their two exhibition games on Monday, both of which they lost.

I am looking forward to the long drive down to Detroit. It will give me a chance to relax.

I really don’t know what is going to happen on my return. As of next week, I have no choice but to apply my energies to finding work that pays, even if it does mean my becoming a commuter again. It’s whole new challenge, one that I did not really want, but...everything happens for a reason.

For the moment, I am looking forward to spending a couple of days with Suzie, talking things out, basking in the love and laughter of a good friend, recharging my Energizer batteries.

What will this winter bring? I don’t have the faintest idea, and that, in itself, is an adventure.

I’ll see you all when I get back next Monday. Until then, sending out a whack of SMILES to warm your weekend!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

SUNDAY AFTERNOONS

I met her in the liquor store this afternoon. I noticed her as she approached the line waiting at checkout, her from one side, me from the other. If I was to guess her age, I’d give her late 80’s, but a young at heart late 80’s. Her round face dimpled under a head of a gray, cut in a short, sporty style. She was wearing a nice, fashionable brown and beige pant suit, and one inch heels that tapped the floor as she walked. Earrings, necklace, and bracelets – everything matched. It reminded me of my mom.

When I signaled her to go ahead of me, she gave me one of those lovely, big, warm grins and said thank you.

“We’re in no hurry on a Sunday afternoon, are we?” she remarked.

“Certainly not!” I responded. I lifted my bottle of red. “If it takes too long, we can drink this while we’re waiting.”

She giggled and mimicked my action with her bottle of white. “Now there’s an idea!”

The people around us laughed too, the couple closest to us making the ‘Cheers’ sign with the beverages they were holding.

It was her turn at the cash. When she pulled the money from her purse, two or three folds of tissue fluttered to the floor. I could see she had some difficulty when bending to pick them up, but they had landed between her feet so I would have had to push her away to help at all. She managed, shoved them back into her purse, then accepted her change from the cashier, and some of it hit the floor too.

“Oh my!” she said, as she attempted to recover them. This time I could help her; she reached for one coin while I reached for the other.

“And we haven’t even drunk our wine yet!” I joked.

“Chocolat!” (pronounced shock-a-la in French) she exclaimed, her eyes wide with a pretense of horror. "Imagine what I’ll be like after I do! I think I’ll be kissing my bed early enough!”

By this time all the customers were paying attention, and shared our mirth, as did the young lady ringing up our purchases. My transaction was finished by the time she got herself together, and we exited at the same time. Her vehicle was parked beside mine.

“Have a nice day,” I told her as I opened my truck door. Once again that big, warm grin. She waved the bottle at me.

“I intend to!” she answered gaily.

You gotta love Sunday afternoons in our small town.

I SMILED all the way home.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

A PLOY?

With money tighter, you would think that I would pay more attention. It’s those combination-tables that do me in. You know the ones I mean? They catch your eye in a grocery or general shopping mart, which is my term for a Wal-Mart/Target/you-want-it-or-even-if-you-don’t-we-got-it store?

There they are, those combination-tables, tastefully decked out, often in the middle of an aisle where you have to make a detour to keep from hitting it and knocking whatever is piled there helter-skelter...

Oh! Am I the only person who has ever done that? And with no little tykes close enough to blame either?

So, these combination-tables are sporting the HUGE sign with a GREAT DEAL PRICE written in giant red or black or fluorescent orange paint, and Great Scott! Gouda Cheese for $2.50?? And name brand too? Hell, yes!

I grab 4 of this fantastic specially priced cheese and put them in my cart, not even noticing the cans of tuna and the boxes of crackers sharing the space, so intent was I on the thought of savoring a favorite dairy product without busting my budget.

I continue my speedy shopping (that’s how I do any shopping unless it’s in a bookstore) and when I arrive at checkout I load my purchases on the conveyor belt, nearly kissing the gouda as I place it lovingly, one round on top of the other . The cashier rings it all up and claims an amount at least $25.00 more than I had calculated mentally as she passed things over the scanner.

“What??? You must be mistaken. Let me see that slip, please.” She slowly goes down her screen, item by item, and the clients behind me shuffle impatiently. As she calls them out I hear her say “4 Gouda at $8.50 each...”

“No! No!’ I interrupt her. “There’s your mistake. The sign says on special at $2.50.”

The young cashier looks baffled, then picks up the speaker and her request for a price checker echoes through the store. Those in the line behind me are glowering by now, except for one smart-ass man who calls out, rather rudely, that it was the crackers selling at $2.50, and not the Gouda, and that one should read the smaller print on those signs; his ‘if one is reasonably intelligent’ was implied, if not actually stated.

Sorrowfully, I instruct her to remove 3 of the Gouda. She seems somewhat confused - a newbie, I guess – and her attempt to credit the charge requires help from a supervisor, and I hear the grumbles and mumbles as some customers move to another line and others heave sighs of exasperation. It was quite embarrassing.

So I should have learned, right?

Well, today I told Helen how I had seen lined rubber gum-boots at the Giant Tiger store on sale for $8.00, absolutely perfect for walking the doggies in our present weather, and we both agreed that was a super saving, and she wisely figured that we could both use them so let’s go get them now before they were sold out. We drove all the way to town, and sure enough, there were only 6 pair left, so we felt fortunate that there was one pair the right size, and neither of us took heed that they were sitting on a combination-table with some long sleeved sweaters and whatever else that was stocked there. We picked up a few other things and when we reached checkout, Helen insisted on paying the total which came up to...how much???

Once again the line behind me shuffled their feet as I told the cashier that the boots were advertised at $8, not the $29 she had punched in, and, once again, I was reluctantly forced to concede that if I had read the small print on the ONE sign which had a HUGE $8 on it, I would know that the sale price was for the sweaters, not the boots.

I left the boots there – I can get them for $15 at Yellow Shoes down the street. I can’t help but question how many times, when finances were easier, I have been fooled into paying a higher price because of a combination-table setup? Helen hadn’t realized how much more the total amount was. That leads to my wondering if the stores do it on purpose, aware that many people won’t read the tiny writing under the glaring sale price. If the customer doesn’t notice at checkout, good show! If he does notice, well, it’s a customer mistake.

On the drive home, Helen interrupted my venting. “The lady behind us had a pair of those boots too, and when she saw what happened with us, she didn’t buy them either.”

Ah! Not only consolation for my wounded pride, but I now feel like a Good Samaritan, and that brings back my SMILE.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THAT BIG LITTLE SOMETHING

Have you noticed how it works? That on those ‘down’ days, when events causing distress or frustration seem to pile up, there is always at least one thing will happen to make you smile? Sometimes it’s small, sometimes bigger, but there is no doubt that it DOES take place – a bright ray reminding us that clouds do eventually disappear.

My foster mother made me aware of this when I was very young. It has never failed. It is more often than not totally unrelated to what one is experiencing at the moment, and usually unexpected. Still, on those occasions where I feel my mood deteriorating to an unhealthy level, I’ll make a point of looking for it, because I know it is there somewhere.

Yesterday was one of those times. Every call, each task I attempted to complete, even the energetic doggies – nothing was easy, and it was a continuous assault against my patience and nerves. Counting to 10 was not working anymore. I was in dire need of a respite.

Usually I will take a walk to lessen the pressure, but I was already wet from being out with the dogs earlier, and it was still raining. I started wandering around the house, stopping at each window, searching for something... anything...that would change my humor.

And the sun peeped from behind a cloud. Its appearance was short, but long enough to create a lovely rainbow. I could feel myself relax as I watched it arch across the sky. My quest had not been in vain.

But wait! I was rewarded a second time! As I turned to go back to my desk, I saw something that actually made me express my joy aloud. A butterfly!! I have been longing to see one this whole season. It was clutching the inside screen, and so pretty! I admired it for a bit, took a picture, then very gently removed the screen so that the little creature could take wing to freedom.

The implication was not lost. My bad day was not important in the whole scheme of things, but that little butterfly and the role it plays on our earth certainly is; there are priorities to be observed.

The truth is, importance aside, my Happy Bubble was back in place, and I was SMILING.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

BACK ON THE CHAIN GANG?

Oh dear. It looks like I’m at the end of it now. I was hoping that collecting a substantial amount owed to me by a delinquent client would carry me through until I could find something else to fatten the coffers, but his cheques are not honored, which does me more harm than good. My one regular client has lost business on his side too, and no doubt will close that part of his operations down within a week or two. He has another company in the city, and last spring had offered me a job there, but it would mean commuting again. Just the thought makes my heart cry out in alarm. If I was living in a densely populated area, I would have no problem getting gigs to do at home, but this region is seeing more and more of its citizens having to find employment elsewhere. Bummer.

Compounding the problem is my grandson’s informing me yesterday that he is moving at the end of this month, so no rent will be paid for October. He mentioned a couple of names as tenants to replace him, but no – I am not going to jump there too quickly. Once an apartment is rented out, this province makes it nearly impossible to evacuate the premises if there is a problem. I want to choose wisely. I wasn’t able to advertise because his moving date was not certain, and his finding possible replacements lets him off the hook too. It never rains but it pours.

There is maybe a small ray of hope; not that I continue from home, but to make necessary travel less arduous. A friend of mine who also did accounting from her place, but has resorted to the 9 to 5 trek into the city as of Monday, suggested that I could probably negotiate working irregular hours, thus avoid most of the traffic. It’s a possibility, and one I have no choice but to explore if I want to keep my house. Hell, if I want to even eat!!

Ah well, everything happens for a reason, one door closes and another opens, etc. There really is no choice right now, so there is nothing to do but bite the bullet and proceed. Being part of the pyjama brigade was nice while it lasted, but I’ll get my clothes out of the mothballs and start combing my hair again. I’ve allowed myself this one day to whine about it, even if I realize how lucky I am, having enough education and health to still be able to get a job. Others my age are not so fortunate.

Returning to the real world will also give me plenty of new material for blogs and stories and there you go – I’m already feeling better about the situation! I’ll keep you all up to date on what’s happening. In the meantime, sending you SMILES, just because I can!! Oh – and because I want to....

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

N.B. VISITS

And I’m back, as of 7 PM or so last night. The doggies were ecstatic, so excited that it was a fight to stay on my feet as they rushed to greet me. Helen, my faithful doggie-sitter, told me they had been whining most of Friday – seeming to know it wasn’t just a couple of hours away for an errand. She took them out for walks, as did my grandson when he was around, and they were well fed and cared for, but Mistress is, of course, the focal part of their canine lives. They have been following me around, step for step, and are lying at my feet as I write this. Such devotion is an experience never to be lived by those who do not, or never did, have pets.

It was an excellent visit, first with my sister and her hubby who were vacationing at their mountain site in Perth-Andover. We arrived there Friday night to a supper of organic chicken stew and dumplings – to die for! – and, although I wasn’t aware of it beforehand, it was my BIL’s birthday, so we duly celebrated the occasion! We haven’t seen each other for 4 years; there was plenty of catching up to do. I do love that little area of the world; it is picturesque and so peaceful – and a perfect setting for that nature-loving couple.

Saturday morning, we went on to my brother’s home outside Moncton, and this time I was healthy and able to make the round of friends I had been too sick to see in April. I always enjoy the company of my youngest bro and his family; laughter is predominate is their home, not a small part initiated by the wonderful sense of humor of my SIL, Lori. A while back, I wrote a post about her and her contribution to this weary world. A giggle and a few, that lady!!

On Sunday I was in Salisbury to meet my new grand-niece; well, new to me – she turned 2 on Saturday. Her daddy and mommy came back to my bro’s house with us that evening; more laughter, a BBQ, and much fawning over the baby, who is my bro’s first grandchild.

It was days of pleasure, except for Helen’s daughter who bombarded me with long, nasty text messages, one after the other. Fortunately she was at work when I stopped to pick up Helen’s winter tires and the few things left behind from Helen’s move; I’d have been hard put to keep from slapping her on the back of that vindictive little head of hers. She was caught out in her greed and instead of admitting it and apologizing she is lashing out at her mother. I didn’t inform Helen or her son about this – there is no earthly reason to cause such distress – but I did show the messages to my brother, who was astounded at the language the daughter used to describe her mother and me (because I’m her mother’s friend). We both shook our heads and said, in the same breath, “Twit!!” I didn’t bother to answer any of her accusations; I have better things to do with my time.

It was a wonderful break – the driving, the lovely scenery, and the fun visits – and renewed energy for the return to the grindstone. I’ll be doing a similar trip in the other direction within a couple of weeks, heading down to see Suzie in Detroit. Looks like there will be a permanent SMILE on my face this month!!

Sending out your share!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

WILL BE AWAY FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS...

Morpheus has forsaken me again, sticking around only 3 to 4 hours per night, then sneaking back at the worst moments during the day. If he was my husband, I’d give him a taste of the rolling pin. But he isn’t, so all I can do is endure and wonder why the mythical bugger has selected me (among others, I’m sure) for his shenanigans, and this ever since I can remember. I still haven’t found a reasonable reason.....

On Friday morning I’ll be heading to NB. The main purpose is to pick up Helen’s winter tires from her daughter’s house, but I will also take the time to visit my brother’s and nephew’s families. One of my sisters, who lives in Alberta but is currently at her lovely summer place in Perth-Andover, NB, is also on my list. The last time we enjoyed each other’s company was a year or so before Bird got sick.

The change of pace will do me good. The country down east is gorgeous, (I’m sure Nautikos agrees) and I’m looking forward to the drive and seeing all those wonderful people. Helen will stay here with the doggies. I have advised her daughter that I will be stopping by and she said ok. Those two ladies have not talked to each other since Helen moved back here. A pity; time is so short.

Because of the trip I will miss the baby shower being held for my grandson’s girlfriend. I can’t say I am sorry. I am not a ‘shower’ person, and have to force myself to attend when I can’t get out of it. I’d just as soon wait and give her a nice gift when the baby is born in late October; something she may be lacking to spoil my great-granddaughter. This new addition to the family will be christened Lena, an old fashioned but pretty name that one can easily pronounce in both official languages of this country.

I still haven’t completed the documents for the government. A letter arrived yesterday informing me that my file has been transferred to a representative of that formidable collection agency and damn! I’ve dealt with this particular civil servant once before, at which time I was neglecting most work while caring for Bird. We were not compatible then and I doubt very much it will be easier now. I’m already reinforcing the walls of my Happy Bubbles; I have a feeling he’s going to want to burst them wide open!

However, for the here and now our weather is perfect in my book. Soon we’ll be sitting around cosy, crackling fires while cheering on my HABS, who have reinforced the team during the summer. Sam’s Red Wings are in our division this year, so I imagine the texting during the games will be fast and furious, LOL!

Life is good, and one can’t help but SMILE. Sending our big, warm ones for y’all!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

CONTRARY TO MANY....

I hear people lamenting the departure of summer, and I remember how my brother and I looked forward to autumn and the winter. In spite of warm weather, swimming, biking and games of ball, spring and summer meant extra chores to be done. Besides the milking and regular feeding of the animals there was maple sap to be gathered and boiled into syrup, fields of vegetables (and I do mean fields) to be planted, hay to be brought in, pails and pails of berries and chokecherries to be picked, then hours of preparing bushels of the produce for canning.

When autumn arrived there was mostly just the orchard to clean, and school would begin. We both enjoyed school, probably more for the social life and access to the school library than the learning itself. We loved to read.

Autumn ushered in crisp breezes to encourage our burrowing under heavy blankets. Autumn meant Halloween – YUM! Our foster parents were not financially affluent by any means, and the chance to walk miles during the spookiest night of the year and fill a large bag with candy was a terrific event! Thanksgiving was also celebrated by a table laden with goodies; turkey, pumpkin and squash pies, homemade popcorn balls and every kind of cookie one could want. Visitors would be in and out, usually bringing other children to play.

Winter offered us skating, hockey and sliding, where we could spend more time playing than working outside because the fields were under snow, so no planting!! And there was Christmas, more goodies and excitement, the gifts a desirable extra...and last but not least, that holiday would bring our mom, who showed up to spend a couple of weeks vacation with us. With her we would visit relatives, cousins our age we would see only once a year, and our maternal grandparents where our half sister lived. We hated when it ended.

I do recall that our adolescence helped us appreciate summer more. By this time we were off the farm and living in town, so the last day of school was celebrated with appropriate joy. We had summer jobs, but that was nothing compared to the toil in the fields. There was tanning and beaches and crushes...oh yes, summer was much better then. I can honestly say my love for summer lasted until I had the children, and the first day of school once again reminded me how much I preferred autumn. The onset of menopause strengthened the preference; summer heat begone!!

I listen to the moaning every year on or around this date, and I nod in sympathy, but inside you will find me SMILING! Betcha I’m not the only one!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

AND HERE COMES BOB!!

On Saturday I went to town to do some errands, leaving Helen and her son at the house to complete laying the wood floor in Helen’s rooms upstairs. I arrived home to learn that, once again, the police had paid a visit to our corner. It seems that Bob was on the rampage. He was dragging his dogs around, on leash of course, and standing on the road in front of those neighbours who have complained about his antics, shouting obscenities and causing every dog in the area to bark. When he made it to my place, Helen’s son went outside and asked Bob if he was looking for trouble. Bob began shouting that he would call the police. I’m not clear on what happened next, but it seems that two neighbours did call Bob’s bluff and came up behind him. Words were exchanged, and the result was that the police were called and Bob is accusing one of the neighbours of hitting and knocking him into the ditch with a car. Helen said she looked outside and saw the man sitting in the middle of the hill yelling ‘Ow-ow-ow!’, but there was no car in sight. The neighbour in question, when talking to the officer, warned him that Bob was sick, and that he was hassling all of us, and denied the car story. He still has to go to court next month with a deadly weapon accusation. Crazy!

Yesterday Helen’s son, who knows both Bob and his brother Johnny, went over to attempt talking some sense into them. Luckily Bob was not there, so a quarrel was avoided, but Johnny didn’t help matters when he implied that I had started all this, that Bob is acting as he does because of my complaints about his dogs. Right! He made a huge mistake; everyone around knows how many times I have tried to reason with those men. We imagine that he is attacking ME because I am the only person whose complaint could actually cause him trouble. His dogs HAVE and still DO come onto MY land, I have pictures of the results from their fighting with my dogs, and so many witnesses of both that I could fill a courtroom. Helen’s son told Johnny to not even go there, and that he was fortunate I am an animal lover and therefore have been so patient.

During our short community ‘conference’, which was held at my house after the event, I remarked that both men seemed mentally unstable and that maybe this would bring them help. One of the neighbours ended the meeting by declaring that he could get a machine and help them move elsewhere, literally, house and all – that both the men and their dogs wouldn’t have to lift a finger, but just hang onto the walls as he picked up the house and moved everything away, lock, stock and barrel. We all laughed, but I can’t say that one of us disagreed with his idea.

In spite of the action, Helen’s floor did get finished, and she is hopping around like an excited child cleaning things up, placing the furniture, hanging pictures. I think she is finally feeling that she has a space she can call her own, and seeing her so happy makes me SMILE.

Sending them out to you all on the last day of this long weekend – hope they make your day just a bit better!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

ACCOMMODATE WHO?

In spite of living in the most controversial province of my country, I’m not into politics. I believe that the majority of people working in that field are there for their own benefit; their own pockets and power. Even those who enter the political arena with the noblest of intentions seem to end up a good example of if you can’t beat them, join them.

But believe me; I wouldn’t want to do their job. Part of my duties while working 10 years for a municipality required that I rub shoulders with more than one politician, provincial as well as federal. I realized that constant wearing of white gloves is not my thing.

I am not a fan of Pauline Marois, our present provincial leader, and her PQ party. However, I have to say that the Values Charter she has introduced has merit. I suspect you have heard about it – this legislation that would ban all religious items and clothing for those working in or for our provincial government. There is one thing I don’t like about it, and a commentator on a news article took the words out of my mouth:

Quebec was historically a Catholic territory with other minor groups of religions! Why is it then, that the Quebec government needs to legislate the removal of Catholic or Christian symbols from public institutions merely to accommodate other people whose country of origin is predominantly non Christian?

If I moved to a country where women were required to cover up, I would cover up. Their country, their culture, their laws. And I am certain their government would not bend over backwards to accommodate me.

I rest my case.

And because I really need to keep plugging away at this censored file I am trying to complete, I will send you big SMILES at get back to it.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

NOTHING MUCH

Hmmm – yes, well okay. This will be a post about nothing much.

I’ve found a way to avoid becoming very grouchy each morning when I am just out of bed, not yet had my first coffee, and the doggies are bouncing around demanding their walks because they have to...well, you know...go!! Before Bob and his shenanigans, I would just open the door and away they would run, then 15 minutes later they’d come back to a caffeine satiated mistress who delights in playing with them a few minutes before starting her workday. While waiting on the fence, which is not financially possible at the moment, a part of that reason being the huge vet bills after Grump’s fight with Bob’s dogs, I anchored a long chain on the cement footing of the gallery. Now I can open my office door and tie them out, one after the other, to do their needs. Their required walk is less immediate, and I have time to wake up before being pressured into action (which, for me, is like being poked with a stick) and my mood has greatly improved, so mornings are once more pleasant.

After last week’s hot spell, the weather has been perfect; lovely, warm days for our strolls outside and cool nights where one can snuggle under a comfy blanket and welcome Morpheus. He actually has been staying around longer lately; that also greatly improves one’s morale.

I have been working on a huge file that our greedy government wants by the end of this month. I doubt it will be complete, but I should be able to remit enough to satisfy the desires of our insistent civil servants, and I am determined that it be off my back as soon as possible. Truth be told, the delay is mostly my own fault. As I once mentioned in a previous post, I am having more and more difficulty in focusing on accounting; I definitely need a change of pace. However, for this one I must bite the bullet and get it done. I can’t afford not to. So I’ve had to put my Lady’s story on hold (although I do write some of it every day) with a promise to her that I’ll give it most of my time whenever this ordeal is ended.

Helen and her son are here again this weekend, still toiling, among other things, on the wood floor upstairs. We hadn’t realized that the toilet in her bathroom would have to be removed, as well as the vanity under the sink. It’s a whole new ballgame. Her son is able, but not a construction person by trade, so there is time lost with humming and hawing while figuring out how exactly the task should be approached. Fortunately I am used to renovations in this place taking forever, and Helen is slowly adapting to things not being done yesterday, and is able to joke around with the rest of us instead of getting uptight. We all relaxed around the BBQ this evening, and they are both in bed now, and I am heading there after I finish writing this.

And I’m done.

So I’ll send you as many SMILES as the airwaves can hold, plenty to go around and even share, and say goodnight.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

DOGS, POLICE, AND RENOVATIONS

The neighbor’s dogs are still there – and Bob is again walking past the houses, mine included, that have animals which will, of course, bark wildly. Early Friday morning I had just come back upstairs from tying Smooch in front of my garage door when Grump, who fortunately was on the gallery, went ballistic, alerting me that something was not right. I looked through the window and saw the two mean dogs loose in my yard, and they were running up towards Smooch. I yelled, and raced back down, nearly taking a header off the stairs in my haste. The combination of Grump’s angry noises and my yelling and Smooch, who had no choice but to stand his ground and snarl loudly, made them turn tail and run home.

Enough is enough.

I had errands in town, and stopped to talk to the police while I was there. As I thought, they can do nothing, nor can I, if Bob is on a public road walking his dogs as long as they are leashed. As for their coming into my yard, I have to call the Municipality first, who would then authorize the dogcatcher, who will pick them up if they are still in my yard when he gets here... maybe about an hour later??

“I’ve had it, and they’re dangerous,’ I told the officer. “Am I allowed to shoot them if they come back?”

She shook her head. “No, I’m sorry. The law right now protects animals nearly more than humans.”

“Really?” I asked. “Well, then can I shoot their owner? I’d prefer doing that anyway.”

She thought I was kidding, so laughed and shook her head again.

The long and the short of it is:
- Complain to the Municipality and hope they do something, or
- Civil court, which could take years and cost a fortune, or
- Wait until the mean dogs do something drastic, call the police,and they can shoot if they think they are being attacked.
- Other than that – endure.

“Or a fence,” said the officer. I nodded. I have already been working on it. It will be expensive, but makes more sense than to keep spending for vet bills...not counting the daily aggravation.

Helen and her son were back Friday night. We picked up the wood and started to cover Helen’s bedroom floor the next day. We got enough done to set up my antique bed in there, so next weekend she’ll be quite comfortable. She is making that part of the house her own, and it’s nice to see her finally feeling that she belongs somewhere, especially since she hasn’t heard one word from her daughter since leaving NB.

I have been writing my Lady’s story (with help from my Blogit friends, for which I am most grateful) and also have a load of work to complete before the end of the month. In the second week of September I hope to go back to NB to visit my brother and his family, and to meet his little granddaughter for the first time. I’ll be driving down, and will stop to pick up the winter tires Helen left behind when she moved back here. That may be interesting.

In the meantime, I’m enjoying the activity (and challenge!), the beautiful weather, my mountains and my bush, and life in general. It makes me SMILE, and you know I’m sharing!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

MORE ABOUT BOB

Well, well – the police did come to the neighbor’s (see previous post), but it wasn’t me who called them.

Bob continued his menacing walks with his dogs on Monday. Grump and Smooch barked to let me know he was there, then surprisingly stood silently while we watched the trio walk by. The demeanor of Bob’s animals struck me as odd too. Tethered at the end of long leashes, they were trailing slowly behind their master, and gave the impression that they would rather be anywhere but where they were. Not once did they turn their great, furry heads and look at us. Was there some kind of communication among the canines? Is that why my boys suddenly became quiet, respecting the embarrassing position imposed on warrior pets by a hard-headed human?

Because of the trees and bush between our properties, I can’t see into Bob’s yard. Sound carries though, and I heard his arrival at his house, and the loud, angry words exchanged with his brother (we’ll call him Johnny), then the yelp of an animal being hurt. My hackles rose. I waited, knowing that nothing would keep me from racing down there if more yelps were forthcoming. I cannot abide any person beating an animal. Fortunately a gate slammed (I guessed it was the one on the dog-pen) and the voices ceased. I didn’t see any of them again that evening.

It was 10 PM when the sirens and the slew of fast moving tires went by my house. I was in bed, and didn’t get up. It was just the next day that I learned that both police and ambulance had been at Bob’s. No-one seems to know the reason, but the neighbour living just behind them told me she heard Johnny wandering in the bush outside around her place quite late, before all this happened. He was drunk and swearing at his dogs, loudly and...damn, but those men are so stupid!!

Since the visit by the authorities, there has been no barking when I go out with mine. Bob’s dogs are either kept inside or no longer there. I’ll know soon enough which it is.

If I was ever granted 3 wishes, one of them would certainly be that not one animal on this earth (snakes included) would ever again be mistreated. Letting Nature take its course is okay, but humans would not be allowed to be mean or irresponsible. That’s a huge wish!!

As for the other two wishes...well, I haven’t decided yet, but one of them will be about SMILES!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THE CLEANUP...AND BOB

The last few days flew by with so much activity that I wondered if I would be able to keep up. Grump’s wounds required hot compresses 4 times a day, and there is the morning and evening walks, each dog his turn, on leash. Gone is the luxury of just opening the door and letting them go outside to sniff their domain to their hearts’ content. They are having difficulty coping with the restraint, and it is taking huge chunks of my time.

I had previous clients call me looking for urgent help, which meant digging out papers that were buried under those mountains stored in the garage. Visitors showed up in the evenings and stayed late. My truck was making funny noises that needed to be checked out. Added was the preparation for cleaning the garage on the weekend; contacts made for proper disposal of what was there; more boxes and bags being packed and readied for said disposal.

In the end, the truck and trailer and strong arms showed up early Saturday morning. By Sunday evening the job was done. Shelves were even constructed for the documents which I needed to keep until I can have them returned to various companies. The BBQ worked overtime. The work was done by volunteers so the least I could do was feed them.

During all this my neighbor (we’ll call him Bob), the one with the vicious dogs, must have decided to go off his meds. Bob spent his time walking his animals back and forth just outside the limits of my property, sending my two doggies into frenzy. He even stops on the gravel road directly in front of the gallery, the only place where Grump and Smooch can see them clearly through the trees, and lingers there; talking aloud to his own dogs, repeating over and over that nobody will stop them from going where they please. My male friends who were helping clean the garage went out to talk to him, but he ran off and hid in the bush.

It started on Saturday, and since then he has been doing this three or four times a day. It seems he also went by the house of another neighbour and, when told to buzz off, threatened that he would turn his beasts loose on this man’s new dog. This is the same man who was babysitting a Pomeranian for his niece while she was on vacation last year, and the poor little thing was torn apart by Bob’s five huge brutes. At that time the police were called. It wasn’t the first dog they had killed, so Bob was obliged to get rid of the two most aggressive, and to make a pen to keep the others from running around which, as anyone reading my blog knows, has not functioned too well. On more than one occasion they have been back here, and each time there is a wicked fight. This is the reason why, although I have 4 acres where Smooch and Grump used to run freely, I am obliged to keep my boys on a leash. Mine don’t go out of my yard unless the others come here looking, and then they will give chase, a reaction from any normal dog.

I’ve tried personally negotiating with the fellow, in more ways than one, but nothing has worked. I fear the only solution now is to go to the police and lodge a complaint. Other neighbours around here want to start a petition to send to our Municipal council. It was done last year but, other than a letter of warning which Bob totally disregarded, there has been no reaction from that quarter. It’s another sad case where dogs are eventually going to pay for an irresponsible owner.

Other than that, the weather has been fine, Grump is healing well, and my goddaughter just gave birth – it’s her first, an 8 pound, sweet, baby girl. My grandson’s purchase of his first house has been approved, my daughter is on vacation and will be by later to help organize the boxes for those new shelves and...oh yeh...I can finally see my garage floor!!

Life is good and this lady is SMILING!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THE RETURN OF THE RUG RATS

Last night my son came for the things he had left behind here, and with him were his lady and my 3 Rug rats. The boys tumbled up the stairs, ran noisily down the long hallway and Bali jumped into my open, welcoming arms. Could my heart have sung louder or sweeter, I wonder? Feeling those chubby little arms around my neck again felt so right! When the hugging was over, the lads spread out, looking for their familiar and favorite places, except....

“No, Nalou. Upstairs is not allowed; Helen lives there now.” My oldest Rug rat stared at me, his eyes wide with concern. The other two, suddenly silent, turned to look at me. Even their parents stood waiting, saying nothing. Nalou asked the question they were all pondering, without a doubt.

"But where are we going to sleep when we come?”

Ummm – okay Mémere. Some fast thinking is needed here.

In the midst of the disagreement, and even after the ‘mending bridge’ discussion with my DIL, I had made the decision that there would be no more babysitting on my part. It was over. Done. Whenever I would see the boys it would be with their parents. I would no longer be used.

Seeing the worried expressions on these three little faces chased that notion right out the window.

“In the living room!” I capitulated. “We’ll put up some blankets and make a huge tent. There’s lots of couches and we can use the sleeping bags and pillows!” The sighs of relief were not audible, but I heard them anyway. My Rug rats grinned with delight.

“And you’re going to sleep with us!’ exclaimed Bali, his big, blue eyes dancing.

“Yep! But I warn you – Mémère snores. Really loud!! You might kick me outta there before the night’s over.”

"Really loud?” he asked.

“The loudest in the world,” I nodded. He considered it for a moment.

“No,” he answered. “Hulk snores the loudest in the world. He snores louder than you.”

“Hmmmm – I don’t think so.” I said. “Anyway, we’ll know when it happens. Then we’ll see who the loudest-snorer-winner is, me or the Hulk.”

“Okay!” He grinned. “But we won’t kick you out.”

“You sure?” I asked.

“Sure!” he yelled it, as lads do when they’re excited, then raced off to re-explore the house which had been his home for a short time.

We adults sat to have coffee, and within minutes Tao, my 3 year old baby, sidled over to me, then manoeuvred his way onto my lap. The rest of the visit was spent with his face nestled into my shoulder and me rocking him back and forth as we chatted over his head. Was Mémère happy, do you think?

The visit was short; it was close to bedtime. Kisses and hugs and high fives were distributed as my Rug rats said goodbye, then they took the stairs going down as fast as they had coming up. Just as noisily too!

I came out onto the gallery to wave, and there they were – the 3 of them, standing at the corner of the house peeing, with Bali taking aim for his brothers’ shoes. When my son gave up and joined them, I thought how some things never change.

My family is whole again. My SMILE was one of amusement, and oh so grateful!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THE LADY

On Friday, March 22nd, I posted ‘Prologue to a Story’ in Blogit. It was a short piece, with words that kept coming into my head while I was relaxing in my Jacuzzi. At the time it was imperative that I get it ‘onto paper’ before retiring for the night. I admit that I wondered if it had anything to do with the date being my deceased sister’s birthday – she would have been 66 this year.

Since then, the lady of that story has been fading in and out of my thoughts; nothing concrete, more like a ghostly essence nudging my shoulder now and then, giving me glimpses of her complicated character, the life she lived, the lessons she learned...or didn’t. I realised that she is not at all like my sister. She’s a stranger, but one who seems intent on keeping me company more often lately.

I woke at 3 AM this morning and knew I had dreamed about her. My eyes were not yet open and I was remembering her reactions to certain events. Although blurred, I could visualize part of her face, the way she wore her hair, the lift of her shoulders when things didn’t go her way. She is really not like anyone I have ever met before, and I feel some unease in her determination to invade my life. I turned over and tried to go back to sleep, without success. I think I was muttering something about ‘damned ghost stories’ when I gave up and got out of bed.

Has it finally happened then? I’ve read more than once about authors (our own Pat_B. among them) whose characters develop a mind of their own as the writing progresses. I’ve never had the pleasure, and I’m sure it is a pleasure, of experiencing such a thing. I’ve been busy taking notes for Helen’s story, and have another scribbler with jottings for my brother’s autobiography; this new lady is most persistent and there is no doubt that she has decided she has priority over the others.

A couple of published articles do not an author make. I certainly have no claim to that vocation, but if this lady thinks I am the one to tell her story, I’ll do so.

So weird – now that I have agreed, it’s like she’s standing beside me. I can almost see her SMILE.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

PS. I hadn't posted the Prologue to a Story here in March - thought maybe you would like to know what I'm talking about. :)

PROLOGUE TO A STORY

She opened her eyes to the hum of the machines that surrounded her bed. It took her a second to determine where she was, what she was doing there. A slight movement caused her to look over, and she found him sitting by her side, the warmth of his gaze touching her.

“Hey.’ He said softly. She grimaced.

“I’m still alive.” Even if it was a whisper, he could discern the flat tone. He nodded.

“Yes,” he agreed. She looked away.

“What in hell for?” Frustration evident now.

After a moment’s hesitation, he answered her. “Maybe because too many people will miss you when you go.”

“Wrong answer!” she grunted. He smiled again. Nothing could change that feisty temperament.

“Well, then...,” He spoke slowly, the smile still in his voice. “Maybe they’re not ready for you wherever you’re going. They’re worried. They need more time to prepare.” As he said it, he believed it.

No reaction to his words, but he suspected she was pleased.

“Right answer” she thought as she closed her eyes and slipped back into the drug-induced sleep. He sat watching her, then reached to take her limp hand in his own.

“And if you come back, be the same,” he pleaded. “Don’t change.”

Through the layers of fog, she heard his request, and sent her answer back.
”God forbid.”

THE ABSENCE OF.....

The other day, someone mentioned seeing a monarch, and I suddenly realized that I have yet to see one butterfly this summer. There have been moths, the little brown ones who come and flicker around the porch lights, and even they are not as numerous as usual, but those pretty, colourful butterflies are not here. In past years, part of my summer pleasure was to sit on the gallery and admire them as they flitted to and fro. Granted, I’ve been spending less time out there this season, but I still find it odd that I have seen none at all.

I know the insect likes milkweed, and while walking the doggies, I have been looking for the plant. There seems to be plenty around, but without their usual visitors. Wild flowers abound on my property too, as well as in the immediate area surrounding us. The municipality confirmed that it does not spray for mosquitoes, and one only has to take a short walk at dusk to believe that. Those pesky creatures attack in droves, as do the huge deer flies. But no butterflies.

Sometimes things are right under our noses and routine will dictate that they go unnoticed. In this case though, especially since that conversation, I’ve been actively searching each time I am outside, and still have no positive sighting. I am beginning to worry. The monarch mentioned was seen about 80 miles from here.

I think I’ll put the question on Facebook . I’m curious to know if the absence is only in this bush, or elsewhere close by too. If there is a reason, and there is any way I can help correct it, I want to do so. It may be time for an Internet probe too, to discover if the problem is more widespread.

How about my readers? How is the butterfly population faring in your neck of the woods?

I’ll be watching for you answers, and hoping they are the right ones. In the meantime, I’m wishing you all a good Monday, with lots and lots of SMILES!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

'ROUND HERE

Helen needed to be present until her changes of address had been completed, but since then she has been spending her weekdays with her son who lives a good 90 minutes drive away. They both come and stay the weekends with me. He does any heavy or outside work and Helen and I have been sorting through stuff that needs to be discarded and/or moved; a task that is long overdue.

Taking advantage of her absence, a friend came in Monday and Tuesday and painted her room upstairs, and today her son lifted most of the old carpeting in preparation for the wood flooring she wants put down. My own son has not yet picked up the things his family left behind, so we’re still stepping over and around things. I have a promise that it will be removed on Monday, but I’m not holding my breath. It is summer vacation after all, and everyone seems to be busy going somewhere or doing something else.

My garage is plugged full of the office equipment and old desks, and various pieces of furniture. A truck was to come by this morning and clear that area, but the driver called at the last minute to put it off until next Saturday. Bummer! We have the impression that for every two steps ahead, we are taking one back. I’m used to this kind of procrastination, especially when there is no cost involved – it is all being done as a favor. Helen, however, being true to her German heritage, is very pro-active, and it was apparent that she was getting cross because of the delays. It was time for a ‘round here’ chat.

“Will it really matter if it isn’t done TODAY?” I interrupted her tirade with the question.

“But I like to have it done and get it over with!” she responded. “So if we just move this over here...”

“We’ll just have to move it again when the time comes,” I reminded her. “Isn’t that creating extra work for no reason?”

"Well, yes, but...” She bristled, her frustration quite evident. “I have to do something. I can’t just sit around and wait!”

I handed her the broom. “Here, use this. That would be a useful busy.” I said. Her expression told me that she was sorely tempted to hit me over the head with it. I began to laugh.

“Are you not the same woman who was telling me that she does things too quickly? Without thinking things through? And causing herself more stress because of it?”

She laughed too as she agreed with me. It’s an ingrained habit of hers, this leaping before she looks, and one she is resolved to correct. The best way to change an attitude is little by little, day by day, starting with unimportant things. Today was a fine example. There was no emergency because our plans had fallen through, and getting upset would accomplish nothing more than spoil her day.

I gestured to the coffee machine. “Let’s sit for a minute and I’ll explain again how things happen ‘round here,” I teased. We sat down for a cuppa, her son and the doggies joined us, and it wasn’t long before she began to relax. When we stood to continue our toil, she grabbed the offending broom and headed towards the hall, then stopped to look back at me.

“I WILL learn to calm down,’ she determined. “I need to do this, and I will.”

“I know,” I answered her. And we both SMILED.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

WHEN IT"S YOUR TIME....

It was early AM, and after doctoring Grump’s wounds with hot compresses and disinfectant, I put on the long leash and we went out for his toilet needs. Smooch was secured on the gallery – I take them one at a time because they tend to play; the leashes get tangled (the untangling is usually accompanied by some naughty words from Mistress), and Grump’s condition requires that he stay quiet, and that his walks be very short. Besides, choker collars or not, I’m no match for 200+ pounds of dog flesh that may decide to take the stairs too fast in their eagerness to exercise!

We were only out the door a few moments when I heard a terrible shrieking. Obviously a bird was in trouble. Suspecting it was a nest robbery in progress, I hurried towards the sound only to discover that the culprit was not another bird, but Dora, my grandson’s cat. She had a Northern Flicker between her paws and teeth, and the poor thing was desperately trying to escape. I yelled, and Grump raced towards them. Seeing him bear down on her, Dora dragged her catch under my grandson’s parked truck; Grump couldn’t get at her there, although he was doing his best. I picked up a branch and poked at her hard, yelling at her to let go. She avoided the poke, but it did make her run out towards the bush, and my trusty doggie stopped her in her tracks. It was long enough for me to grab Dora by the scruff of the neck and shake her, and she dropped the Flicker. The bird slithered/flew down into the cover of the brush. Still holding Miss Dora high, I opened the door to my grandson’s apartment, and deposited the feline none too gently on the floor.

“She was killing one of my birds!” I growled at the very pregnant little GF who looked up at the intrusion. Her expression was one of shock, either at the antics of her cat or at my tone of voice; I didn’t stick around to find out.

I returned to where I had last seen the bird, but it was not in sight. After searching for a few minutes, I concluded that it mustn’t have been badly hurt. Relieved that things had ended well, I praised my Grump for his part in the drama, and we continued our walk. Little did I know that the drama was NOT ended.

Smooch gets a much longer time outside, and he was full of energy this morning. I decided to forego any training, and to let him sniff wherever his nose led him. A ‘free-leash’ excursion, which means I just follow behind him, letting him do his thing. Up and down the gravel lane we went, then into the grass on the large expanse of the lower lawn, my doggie happily prancing, stopping now and then to roll then waiting patiently while I unwind the leash from around him; here, there, everywhere. He wasn’t at the full length of the leash when the bird, probably frightened at our approach, scurried along the ground.

Smooch is fast. Before I could react, he had pounced and the bird was in his mouth. My cries of ‘Drop it!!’ were being ignored (he hasn’t got that command down pat yet), so the only thing I could do was to reach him as quickly as I could and pull the choker collar. I had to literally hang him, still yelling, before he listened and let go of the poor thing. I was pulling him away when I saw Louka, our husky/wolf neighbour, coming toward us. Oh no!!!

I began to run, calling to both of them. It’s a game all the dogs enjoy, and it worked. Well, the running was the first distraction. Louka’s being in heat is what really took their minds off the bird. Suddenly nothing else mattered to the hounds except each other. A blessing in disguise.

Having no choice, Smooch followed me up to the house, with Louka in loving attendance. The walk was cut short. I put him inside, grabbed a towel and gloves, then went back looking for the Flicker. I found him, but it was too late. A cat plays with its prey, which is what saved the bird the first time. Smooch hadn’t been playing, and his jaws are far stronger than Dora’s could be. I wrapped the little creature in the towel and put him in a box. It took only a moment to bury him.

I’m a county girl. I know all about the law of Nature, and that these things happen, but I couldn’t help giving Smooch attitude when I came back inside. I didn’t scold him; one doesn’t have to use words. Smooch knew that something was wrong, but had no idea why I was upset with him. He waited a bit, his doleful eyes watching me whenever I moved. Finally he could take it no longer. Very gently he came to me and put his head on my knee, asking me to forgive whatever it was he had done.

Of course I relented. “When it’s your time, it’s your time,” I told him, as I fondled his ears. “I guess it was just that Flicker’s time.”

Happy that all was right in our world again, Smooch wagged his tail, and we both SMILED.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.