BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR?

Well, there you go, folks! If you want something, just stand beside me and wish aloud – you may get it in spades – umm – I mean shovels, because that’s what it will take to clean my gallery of this huge snowfall! Maybe I wished too often and too sincerely? I suspect that all except the avid skiers and snowmobilers are thinking of running me out of the area. Don’t let anyone know that I say this, especially little Miko’s daddy who is a courier for Fed Ex and obliged to drive in it all day, but I AM LOVING it!!! That I was allowed to work from home has no bearing on my joy whatsoever.....

It was a productive time; even Bandit and Mommy did not bother me to open the doors after their first venture out this morning. Bandit is the lucky one – he has an indoor toilet – but I insisted that Mommy brave the elements. She gave me ‘the look’, but of course had no choice but to obey. When I let Mommy back in, Bandit was sitting, calmly paw-washing his face. He pretended to ignore her entrance, but it didn’t fool either Mommy or me. That cat was a picture of pure gloating! Mommy’s sidelong glance implied volumes, but I was standing right there, so she wisely made her way to her cushion. Knowing a pit’s penchant for revenge, I expect Bandit will be doing some fast running in the near future!

In one of his comments, CCT asked me about the puppies. I haven’t written about them – I just couldn’t. As I’m sure I mentioned, I was a huge foster-fail. I fell in love with each and every one of those little critters, crying my eyes out when it was time to give them up. Those who were adopting came close to walking away; they feared they were breaking my heart.

I still miss them terribly, but I’m looking forward to telling you all about them now, although I won’t do it in this post. The Habs game is going to begin shortly, and they have been on a losing streak. They need all the encouragement they can get, so I’ve got my jersey on, my face painted, and am ready to couch-coach, or to referee, and surely give them as much energy as I’ve got! Maybe I can pull a trick for them like I did for snow.....

Leaving you with a huge, warm SMILE – it will ride a snowflake near wherever you be!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

A DIFFERENT CHRISTMAS

Last year at this exact time I was sitting on the floor in the vet’s office, holding and stroking his head on my knee, saying a final goodbye to my beloved Grump. I had spent Christmas Day much the same way – lying beside him on his cushion at home, trying to prepare both of us for what was to come. My son was at the hospital, beside his wife’s bed, worried that they lose the baby, even worried that he would lose his little Japanese spouse to the influenza and the infection the doctors were now saying had invaded her body. It was not a good time.

What a difference this year!! The whole family gathered at my home, and it was a most wonderful day! We had seven children, all under 11 years old – some just walking, others crawling...and when you looked around the babies were changing arms from one moment to the next, aunts and uncles and parents and grandparents each getting a share of cuddling. The food was plentiful and delicious, the trees were beautiful, and the house was filled with love and humor and warmth. My kind of Christmas!!

To top it off, my son and Yoshiko stayed over with little Miko, and Mémère and Mommy (my adopted female pit bull) played with our miracle baby all the next morning while her mom and dad got some much needed sleep. Later that evening my Cuban friends and my niece arrived to share a meal of leftovers, accompanied by plenty of wine. We laughed so hard my stomach hurt – one can’t get much better than that!

Yesterday I spent separating food for the freezer, cleaning up, taking phone calls of season greetings – just an easy going day. Today until Thursday it’s back to work, before the action starts over again for New Year’s weekend. There is the Eve’s party at the Sugar Shack organized by the boys who spent most of their growing years at my home, then on Saturday the family and friends gather again to celebrate both my daughter’s birthday (Dec 26th) and our little Miko’s first birthday (Dec 29th). It is a spur of the moment plan, and I love it all!

Mommy and Bandit and I sat quietly under the tree last evening, gazing out at my snow-covered (finally!) mountain, and I let memories of the pain and sorrow that had been present last Christmas run through me. I thought of those we had lost, of terrible moments filled with anxiety and sadness and frustration... and then I put it firmly behind me. Life does go on, and there is so much to appreciate and reasons to be thankful as we pick up the pieces and continue.

And on that note I will leave you with a huge SMILE and a wish that your old year end well, making room for all the wonderful things that can happen in the new one!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

MERRY CHRISTMAS Y'ALL!

I wanted to write more, but our electricity went off yesterday afternoon after a strong wind storm, and all the cooking and cleaning planned for that day was put on hold, so this morning I am running!! At least the power came back on this morning at 6:30, so I had an early start. Both ovens are going right now - yes!

My neighbour and his girlfriend, a lovely new acquaintance, came over and gave me a hand decorating the trees, cleaning up around outside, doing other little things until it got too dark. Then we made a nice fire, sipped wine, and enjoyed the bright, full moon while we chatted; the beautiful Louka and Mommy and Litte Pint (his tiny Yorkshire) also joined the fun. We ordered pizza - there was still power in the village - then they went home, with promises to drop in on my family supper tonight. We will be 20 - and that's JUST family - opening gifts and filling our faces with Christmas turkey and tortieres (Meat pies) among other goodies.

I love this time of the year, even if there is no snow.

Sending warm Christmas smiles and hugs to you all!!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

MAKING HISTORY

The first season home game of the Habs – I was installed with Mommy and my glass of wine in front of the living room TV, watching the opening ceremonies when my phone rang. I usually shut the darned thing off during games, and anyone who knows me will time their calls accordingly, but...

It was my neighbour, the beautiful Louka’s daddy, who has helped me out so often that I couldn’t NOT answer. He needed to fax some papers – it would take a minute – would I mind? Of course not! The first period was just starting when he arrived, the deed was done and he left – it took all of 5 minutes. I was back on the couch with Mommy when I heard his voice calling from the kitchen moments later.

“What did you forget?” I yelled back, not moving, expecting to see him come around the corner from the hallway. But he didn’t. Odd.

Mommy had run to the kitchen to investigate, so I decided to do the same. I found my neighbour stretched out on the floor – what??!!!

I knelt beside him, saying his name – he opened his eyes, groaning, hanging onto his arm. He was trying not to faint from the pain as he told me that he had slipped on my outside stairs, whammed his head good against the stone wall, and he was sure his arm was broken.

A flurry of activity followed; ice wrapped in a towel to put around his arm, checking the side of his head which was already swelling, telling him he’d have to get up because there was no way I’d be able to carry him downstairs....
Finally we were in his truck, the beautiful Louka licking my face as I attempted to negotiate this huge vehicle from my driveway, and we got to the village hospital. True to its reputation, he was told to take a number and sit down...it was number 79 and the waiting room occupants informed us some had been waiting there since noon. Back into the truck and off to the hospital in Ontario, where service does exist even if it takes much longer to get there. The man is tough. I suspected he was concentrating on dealing with the pain, but I kept talking to him, making him answer me...I was worried about concussion.

It took a few hours, but they gave him pain killers, x-rays, and a cast, in that order, and we drove back to the bush. He came up for a bowl of soup and sandwich before going home; neither of us had eaten. He apologized again for my missed hockey game.

"It's okay. My son was texting me the information during the hospital wait and I can get the highlights on the internet. The first time ever the Habs have started out with five wins in a row!"

"Hmmm," he frowned. “First time in my life I ever broke a bone!"

"So!" I laughed. "Tonight you both made history!!"

And we SMILED.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

FOUR YEARS....

It was Mommy’s jumping out of bed that woke me at 2 AM this morning. I groggily wondered where she was going – usually she needs to be prodded to get up – she likes our bed. When I turned over I was facing the clock...and seeing the time sharpened the thoughts that have been on the edge of my mind all month. Okay – I wouldn’t be going back to sleep right away, I knew that now.

Four years today, and it sure doesn’t seem that long. I know I say it every anniversary, and it’s just the truth. Right now I am sitting the same place I was four years ago, in exactly the same spot. Except then it was on the side of Bird’s bed instead of on my office chair. I was saying goodbye.

I cry a little, because I still miss him terribly. I also smile, because I can’t think of him without re-living all those crazy hours spent together; hours of laughter, and sibling bitching and love...so many giggles, so much love.

I don’t remember him just on October 14th. I believe I can safely say not many days go by without his invading my space, much as he did when he was alive – something he said, or did, or how he would react to a certain situation. But tonight, maybe because I am alone here, in the same place, at the same time these years later...it just seems to hit me more. I know he’s not here...but he is.

I sincerely hope that, after I am gone, my children will be able to feel as I do at this moment. There is the pain of loss, yes; but there is also the peace of accepting the way it is, has been, and will continue to be in our human span. Mostly it is overwhelming, warm gratitude for his having been part of my life.

And I SMILE.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

The pharmacist (not the greedy doc) had come up with the brilliant idea that I take Gravol an hour before each antibiotic pill, and with this I managed to keep the medicine down, even if I slept walked through most of the week. Friday night was the last of them, and I was so looking forward to eating something other than cereal and soup! I should have remembered that the effects last a little longer. Ok – lesson learned...again.

I did force myself to go and buy a turkey (I could feel my Mom at my elbow), which I will cook today. There is no formal gathering planned. I still haven’t the energy for a houseful of family and friends, but if anyone does drop in, there will be food to eat. I’ll take a plate into my niece, who is in the hospital and in far worse shape than I ever was. She called me yesterday to remind me not to forget the dressing. It’s an old family recipe, and both she and I have been enjoying it each turkey occasion as far back as we can remember.

My son and my Japanese DIL dropped in with little Miko last night – that child smiles at me and I absolutely melt! She cuddled on my knee as we watched the Habs beat the Bruins, and I lifted her little arms celebrating the goals, and she giggled, showing all 4 of her new front teeth. So quickly does time fly! She is already 9 months old, and just her being here is reason alone to be thankful. There are plenty other reasons – I am convinced that I am one of the most blessed persons on this planet. The more I read the news, the firmer is my belief.

For all my Canadian friends, I wish you a happy Thanksgiving Day. And for those who will celebrate at a later date, I wish you the same. There is nothing wrong being grateful every day, is there? I’m sending out big SMILES with those wishes, big enough to wrap this special weekend in warmth and caring and just plain old joy!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

COMING HOME

It was Saturday morning at 9 AM, and I fortunately found a parking spot right in front of the Fosters’ apartment on busy St-Laurent Street in downtown Montreal. I trekked up the stairs, two cages in hand, and knocked on the door. It opened on a scene of organized turmoil! The Agency people were already there, gathering up toys and food and blankets and dishes; puppies were scurrying around everywhere, and Pitiful Mom was running frantically from one baby to another. The Fosters stood back watching the activity, not quite sure what to do – mostly attempting to stay out of the way. Wow! Would you believe it took only 10 minutes to fill my truck with all the extras and 5 puppies sharing the 2 crates? In the end my contribution was to hang on to Pitiful Mom’s leash, which wasn’t easy until she realised that we were following the men carrying her puppies. I opened the back door of my truck, wondering just where she was going to sit, it was packed so tight...and she balked. She came to a dead stop.

“Oh, I forgot!” said the Agency lady. “She doesn’t like getting into cars.”

What???

I stared at the lady – here I was alone, with a truck full of puppies, going to have to negotiate heavy downtown city traffic then another 90 minutes following vacation-bound tourists, with a hyper mother pit-bull who didn’t really know me from Adam...and you tell me NOW she doesn’t like cars? The lady read my expression and hurried to add “She’ll be okay once she’s inside, she just doesn’t like getting in.” I stared down at Pitifull Mom, wondering just how I was going to do this, short of physically picking her up and stuffing her among the blankets on the back seat. The puppies saved the day. They began to yelp, and it only took a second for Mom to scramble up, attempting to reach the crates. I quickly closed the door. When I slipped behind the wheel, I was more than a little apprehensive for the ride home. Taking a deep breath, I turned the key, put on the air conditioning but left the windows open a slit for air, locking them into place, and turned up a CD of soothing music. I took it slow – heard more than one horn blasting at my cautious driving – and by the time we left the city Pitiful Mom was still moving between the back and front seat, but she was not jumping...it was more like a prowl. I talked to her constantly, but she ignored me. She was not happy with this.

She began to show an interest when we got onto the country roads. Her nose was in the air and she was sniffing – I imagine the smells were completely foreign to a dog that had spent her whole life in the city. When we reached the house I drove into the garage and took her leash, coaxing her out of the vehicle. I lifted the back door of the truck – the puppies were awake now and yelping again – so I let her see that they were okay before taking her for a short walk in the yard, staying close so that she could see her babies. By this time they were making a racket – they wanted to come out and investigate too.

This called for planning. I brought Mom upstairs, closed her into a room – Bandit, my cat, was in the house and a proper introduction would come later - then I returned to the garage and backed my truck to the door of the downstairs apartment. It took more than one trip to get all the stock and the crates inside. I fetched Mom, then opened the crates. Out tumbled five furry little bodies.... and my Foster-Fail began.

(To be cont’d)

Sorry folks – I’m still fighting the antibiotics and trying to catch up on 3 weeks of missed work – the story of my life, LOL! But I am feeling better, and this Friday will be the last of the pills and it should be all kool from there! Just that thought makes me SMILE – am sharing it with you as always!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

AND THEN THERE WERE...SIX???

Pitiful Mom would be coming home – I was accepted!! When the woman from the Agency called to give me the news, I took advantage of the conversation to ask her for some background on my soon-to-be companion. Most Rescues arrive with issues – sometimes little things that can be corrected, and sometimes things to which one has to be ready to adapt and endure.

During my meeting with Pitiful Mom, the Fosters had mentioned that she had been living with a ‘vagabond’. Having worked in the streets for years, I was well aware of how the majority of homeless people treat their animals. The Agency confirmed my guess; this little girl had maybe not received adequate health care, but she was never mistreated and she was well loved. In fact, it was because he loved her so much that her owner had contacted the Agency; when she went into heat, his male pit would catch her. This was her 3rd litter and she just a little older than 2 years. His financial situation did not permit sterilization, and seemed very unlikely to improve. He cried when they went to pick her up, but he chose this particular Agency because he was aware of the strict adoption policy. I promised to give them pictures after Mom was settled in so that this man who had made the ultimate sacrifice would have a measure of comfort, knowing he had made the right choice, that his baby was happy.

At the same time, the Agency lady mentioned that a couple of the puppies were weak, and could need to stay with their mother a little longer than the projected date of total weaning, which was the end of July. In that case, the arrival date would be delayed. Although disappointed, I also understood, so I agreed. It was only the next day that I thought ‘Well, why not?’, and sent them a message that I could handle a couple of puppies for the time it would take to wean them if it meant I could have Pitiful Mom earlier. (Yes, as one of our dear friends said to me later “You have this way of getting yourself into predicaments!”)

Things moved so quickly then! Later that week I was contacted to say they would probably take me up on the offer, and maybe earlier than planned. July 1st had been rough; there was an overflow of animals and they were working frantically to find temporary homes for the poor, lost creatures. Two nights later I was sitting at Suzie’s and the call came in. The Fosters could no longer keep Pitiful Mom and her babies – could I come and pick her up the next morning, and maybe FIVE of her puppies too? The Agency would keep the weak ones, putting them in homes experienced in that sort of thing, but 5 of the puppies were quite healthy, and the usual fosters who took puppies were on vacation to return in a couple of weeks....

Well, what do you think I said?

And this is why my son takes the credit for being a good salesman; he was selling me as the owner of one pit-bull, and I ended up coming home with six.

(To be cont’d)

Yes folks – I’m still on sickbay. In fact, I am returning to the clinic later this morning – the 2nd dose of antibiotics is useless – I can’t keep them down long enough to even digest them. UGH! The weekend was bad – my kids hovered around feeding me soup. I went into the office yesterday for 5 hours and it nearly did me in. More healing is needed before trying that again!

But I’m still SMILING, and, even if my illness is not, I’m hoping the SMILE is contagious!!! It’s on its way to you now!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THE APPLICATION

As soon as I arrived home, I logged onto the Rescue site, paid my non-refundable $25 for the application form (serious contenders only!), and was informed that it would be sent to my email. Two days later and there was no form, so I made contact by private message, then tried not to panic while waiting for the response. It didn’t take long before the answer came back. ‘Have you checked your junk mail folder?’

Duh! Of course I hadn’t, and that is exactly where I found it. It had been sent the day after my request was made. I hit print, then stared as page after page rolled out. Great Scott! It was like a marriage contract! I gathered it up and began to answer the numerous questions, some of them quite personal. Why did I want this dog? Would my financial situation permit me owning and providing adequate care for the animal? Did I have a fenced yard, and if not, would I be willing to have a fence installed? Where would the dog live, outside or in the house? How many people lived in the lodging – and were there children? Where would the dog sleep? Would the dog be caged when left alone? How would I deal if a dog misbehaved? Could I promise the dog would get regular exercise? And it went on and on..... . I was also to forward a list of each animal I had ever owned, where and at what age I had obtained the animal, if I still had the animal and, if not, why not?

After being warned that unannounced follow-up visits would happen, and that sterilization was absolutely required, I was asked to give 3 reference names; a friend who has known me for a long time, a member of my family, and a vet I had used for at least 4 years. If I was accepted, the cost would be $565, which included all the necessary vaccinations and the sterilization fees, and was to be paid on signing the adoption contract.

It took me more than three hours to complete and return the document. Then I sat back to wait...and wait...and wait. Neither my son, who was the family reference, nor my friend had been called, and it was over a week. Could it be that I wasn’t accepted in spite of all my experience with pit-bulls? I sent another private message – please tell me what is happening. My answer was nearly immediate: This is July 1st in Quebec. We are extremely busy, but Pitiful Mom is on hold for you until we can complete the investigation.

Of course! Those familiar with Quebec will know that each July 1st is the ‘official’ moving day throughout the whole province. If you are changing addresses, you have to be out of your lodging by the end of the day on July 1st. Sadly, it is the worst time of the year for pets. Many are left behind, either surrendered to Rescue organizations or just kicked out into the street, because the majority of landlords will not accept animals. People working in these types of organizations, often volunteers, spend hours and hours combing the cities, helping out where they can, finding and providing shelter and food for the poor animals until they can be re-homed or worse, put down.

Relief – the little lady was on hold for me, and that was all I needed right now. Finally my son called to tell me that the Rescue had been in touch. The questioning was quite long, and very thorough. “But don’t worry, Mom,” he said. “I told them that 95% of humans won’t be as happy or as well off as that dog if she ends up with you. And I’m a good salesman!”

With the events that were to follow, he would upgrade his description to ‘a damned excellent salesman!’

(To be cont’d)

UGH! Still feeling terrible, still on antibiotics and still not able to go to the office. This so-o-o sucks! A bright note? Hockey games have started! And that makes me SMILE!!! Sending your share...big and warm and real!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

PITIFUL MOM

Like all good marketing tools, one click on any particular thing that may interest you on Facebook and you are suddenly bombarded by posts containing similar content. My love for animals, especially doggies, is no secret, and many Adoption Sites, or Lost and Found posts, show up on my screen. One day there was a picture of a young, male pit-bull; he had been hit by a car, they were not sure they could save his leg, and they were looking for the poor baby’s owner. Seeing no update on his condition within two days, I contacted the Rescue Site by private message, asking for news, or if they needed help, and said that I would take him if the owner wasn’t found. They responded by telling me to call them and they would give me the information. I was overjoyed to hear that his owner had been found and was assuming responsibility for all his care – he was a loved pet who had slipped his leash.

One thing led to another, and they mentioned a Site dealing often in pits, and told me to check it out. I did, and found a gorgeous white male, about 6 years old, who was up for adoption. This Site is very strict – you have to be serious about your requests, send in your experience with dogs, especially in the strong race category (Pits, Akitas, Rottweilers, etc) – and they will decide if the dog is a suitable match. They are serious about finding ‘forever homes’ only.

After reading my bio, they discouraged my interest in the male. I have a kitty, and he didn’t like cats. But, they wrote, if I wasn’t set on having a male, they had recently brought in a 2 or 3 year old female pit. She was sweet and gentle, used to other dogs and cats, and had just delivered her 3rd litter of 9 puppies. She would be available in about 6 weeks, as soon as the pups were weaned. They sent me a picture of this little girl, surrounded by her puppies, looking so thin and tired. All their dogs are in foster homes rather than kennels, and they gave me permission to contact the foster Mother to set up a meeting.

The date was set. I left work early and made my way to downtown Montreal to meet the little lady. I knocked on the door, it was opened, and she immediately came running. Her pups were in an enclosure in the same room and, like all good mommies, she was being protective. I had expected this, so I didn’t even look at her or the babies. I smiled and chatted with the Fosters, leaving my hands by my side, letting her sniff all over this stranger. Suddenly she stood up on her hind legs, putting her front ones on my shoulders and we looked into each others’ eyes. The Fosters made a move to pull her down but stopped when I shook my head. We stood like that for a moment, then I smiled, reached over and rubbed her behind the ears, and said calmly, ‘Hello sweetheart. Are we going to be best friends?’ She smiled back at me (yes, dogs do smile), got down and promptly sat on my foot, leaning into my legs...and stayed there for most of my visit. I glanced at the puppies – they were too cute – but I didn’t approach them. Trust doesn’t happen in an hour, and anyway, I was already wanting to bring them all home with me. It was safer for me to keep my distance.

She would be ready to come home by the end of July. If my application for her adoption was approved, I would be allowed to visit her again before the move. I left there on a high, crossing my fingers that I would be accepted, already loving Pitiful Mom, the name the Rescue Group had given her. There will be no more Pitiful in your name, I silently promised her. No more puppies for you either – it’s time for you to be cosseted, to have a life of your own. It’ll be just you and me and our kitty.

Once again I was to learn to be careful when making promises. Life has a way of throwing a wrench in the works – sometimes good, sometimes bad, and events were already in motion to totally screw up the one I had just made to Pitiful Mom.
(To be cont’d)

Wow! I haven’t done this in a while! But Mommy’s story is too long for one post. Am sending you all big SMILES, and already looking forward to telling you more.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

FOG???

“He’s got smoke in there.”

“Smoke? What? Where?” When my cute Japanese DIL gets emotional, her translation sometimes falters, and now I was trying to grasp what she was telling me. My son had contacted me yesterday morning to say that his visiting father-in-law, who is 84, was at the hospital emergency room, not feeling well at all. Yo was calling to give me an update.

“Ummm...there,” she repeated. I could picture her pointing, which did me no good at all on this land phone. Then she found the English word for it. “Smoke in his lungs.”

“But he never smoked.” I answered, wondering.

“No, no Mom! Not smoke, that’s not the word. But like fog, you know? In the x-ray they saw fog in his lungs.” She was beginning to sound frustrated from not being able to remember the right term. I’m not that knowledgeable about medical situations, but I remembered my son saying there was high fever, and weakness...and now ‘fog’ in the X-ray....

“Pneumonia?” I guessed.

“Yes, yes, Mom! That’s the thing they said. Thank you, Mom!” I could hear the ‘whoosh’ of relief in her voice; we were understanding each other.

He’s on antibiotics, and the doctor said lots of rest, so Yo’s agenda to show them the whole province of Quebec in 4 weeks has been scrapped. It’s actually a blessing in disguise; this way they get more quiet moments to enjoy and cuddle their granddaughter, Miko. Although my DIL is slightly disappointed, she now realizes that her plans were more for a younger set. Her parents have passed that age. She doesn’t see them often – once every two years or so – and accepting that they are getting on in years can make this time all the more precious.

My son texted me last night that Ojiisan is feeling better; the antibiotics seem to be doing the job. They had planned on coming up to visit me here on Thursday, but even that drive is on hold.

‘That’s ok,’ I texted back to him. ‘If you can’t make it to chicken soup (my solution for any illness), the chicken soup will come to you.’ His response was a picture of Ojiisan sitting, our baby on his knee. The man looks extremely tired, but happy.

‘Anytime is good.’ he messaged. ‘And BTW, they are holding Miko all the time now – it just took them some time to get used to our ways. One can’t stay with our family for long without learning how to cuddle.’

‘Of course!’ I replied, and I sent him a dozen SMILES

Sending dozens out to you folks too – some chicken soup with that?

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THIS EVENING...

I sat alone on my gallery outside tonight. It was dark, and warm; a perfect spring evening. I listened to the whip-o-will, felt the wind gently lifting my hair, and watched the crescent moon flit behind and out again from a fluffy cloud. How many nights over the years have I spent out there listening to the drowsy sounds of my bush?

But tonight’s difference was glaring.

I miss my doggies. This is the first spring in a long, long time without Grump sitting quietly beside me. And my energetic Smooch, whose gallop I could hear as he would enthusiastically race around the house again and again before attacking me with his puppy love and kisses....Or Bud, the terrible Budinski , dropping stones at my feet, tail wagging, waiting for praise of his perfectly delivered gift.....

I can name others. Ben and Beef and Gidoune and Kojak and Pooch and King and Skippy and Bruno and Paddy....all four legged bundles of pure devotion.

Bandit, my adopted kitty, did join me, but not for long. Something rustled in the bush and he was gone. I watched him stalking silently, then called to him, worried that a little chipmunk was going to meet its end. He listened as cat’s do...NOT! I like all animals, but I am definitely a dog-person.

I think it’s time to visit a shelter. I’m sure there is a canine heart waiting there just for me....

Sending y’all sleepy SMILES!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

YEP! STILL ALIVE!

Great Scott! Already over a month since I last posted!! Time shifted to turbo gear without me noticing. Today I went into Blogit to read, as I do nearly every day, and found a new comment made from Justi on my post from Easter. It made me think. Wow – she must really miss me if she’s going back that far to read earlier posts. Then I realized how few times I have posted since then (hanging head here).

I LOVE my job, but it is very demanding. I knew it would be before accepting the position – I’ve been doing work at home for this client (boss) for years, and was well aware that he never stops, and hires only people who can keep up to him, and he is an accountant’s worst nightmare, LOL! My new office is a 40 minute drive through back roads if I choose to go that way, and I can gaze out at trees and yards and wear jeans everyday if I wish. The co-workers sharing this office are not slackers and are a decent sort, now that they have accepted and clearly adapted to the change of owners. What an enormous difference from where I was last year at this time!! By the way, I should add here that my insomnia is practically cured. Morpheus is a pretty regular bedfellow now.

Little great grandson, Zack, joined our family this month, the count now at three new babies since December 29th. I was at the airport at 1:00 AM this morning with my son and my Japanese DIL and sweet Miko to greet her maternal grandparents for the first time. They are enchanted by this beautiful little girl, as are we all, and will be able to spoil her for the next four weeks before returning to Japan. True to their culture, they had loads of huge suitcases crammed with gifts and special packages for their loved and rarely seen daughter and family, therefore the need for two vehicles to get passengers and cargo back to my son’s house safely. I finally drove home (they live 90 minutes away) and got to bed at 5:30 this morning. That was 25 straight hours without sleep, but I was still on the high from all that love being spread around, so it didn’t matter.

My daughter’s youngest son, Raph the sports fanatic, is working in the area for the summer and has moved into Helen’s room upstairs. He has his own car now, and works as a busboy from 4 to midnight, then hangs out with his friends, so he was here most of the week and we didn’t even see each other; just our shoes by the door told us who was home and who wasn’t. However, we leave little notes – like “Sorry Mémère, I got up late and didn’t have time to wash my dishes. Will do them when I get home”, and my answer “That’s ok, Raph. Neither did Mémère have time, as you can see! You can do mine too.” with a smiley face...and it’s great fun just knowing he’s part of my landscape again.

Now that I have started writing, I’ve turned into a windbag! Oops! I do have lots to tell you, but will leave it for another post. This one is ending with all those SMILES I’ve saved up and am sending out – they are skimming over the clouds...making their way to your doors. Some hugs went out with them, so if you feel a sudden warmth, that’ll be me!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

I'VE CAUGHT A BUG...

It was early when I showed up to deliver their Easter Eggs, and of course the Rug Rats were up and bouncing around. I accepted the invitation for coffee, chatted with my son and DIL, reaching out to snare one grandson, then another, as they skipped past where we were sitting. The youngest, Tao, gave me a chocolate wrapped heart. After a proper thank you hug, I put it into my white vest pocket, then promptly forgot it. It was only when doing laundry later in the day that I found it...thankfully BEFORE throwing the vest in with the white load. That was luck, because I very rarely check my own pockets – there is never anything in them – but I just happened to pick the vest up by that exact spot and felt the candy. Oof!

My niece and her daughter dropped out with a friend for an hour or so, but had another supper invitation that they had already accepted. My call had been a spontaneous one; I hadn’t planned on buying that turkey, remember? So there was no let-down really. The turkey got cooked anyway, stuffing and all, but I was not feeling so well yesterday, so the biggest part of it will be sandwiches and soup this week. I ended up in bed before the hockey game was over (SICK!) and spent the night up and down, aching and lamenting.

My back is still sore today. It’s a bug going around. My friend had it last week, but he just goes and hides on the couch when he’s ill, very rarely complains at all. Fortunately he has been around long enough to know that I need to be babied when it’s my turn, LOL.

I sent condolences from the Blogit family to Sam this morning by text, so she’ll know that we’re thinking of her. I also used the internet to post a message to her on the board at the Funeral parlour where the service was being held.

I was supposed to tell you about my new office, but it’ll be for next time. I can only sit for short periods before my back makes it most uncomfortable. I’m going to crawl into the Jacuzzi now – that does help – then see if I can’t find Morpheus. It’s back to work tomorrow, and I want to be in shape.

Hope you all enjoyed your Easter holiday, and sending y’all a SMILE to wind it down.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

ON THIS EASTER.

It was a quiet day; some housework, some office work, a little grocery shopping; all good, except that groceries cost an arm and a leg now. I had my list and was determined to buy ONLY what was on that list, but...April 1st was the 10th anniversary of my Mom’s moving on, and it is Easter, her second favourite holiday (Thanksgiving was the number one), and there were turkeys in the middle of the aisle...so I didn’t hesitate long. I bought one and it will grace the table tomorrow for supper. Here’s to you, Mom.

Those in my Blogit community will remember Sam. With her we went through the torment of her youngest, Christopher, being away at war, the struggle to get her house, her crazy videos and absorbing poetry, her love of the Detroit Red Wings...

She hasn’t posted for a long time, but she and I have kept in touch through texting, usually during hockey games. This season not so much, so today it was a pleasant surprise to hear my cellular whistle; it is the special signal that tells me Sam is sending a message. It wasn’t good news though. Her sister, the one who was her rock, who helped her out so much, died suddenly of an aneurism last Thursday. She is hurting. Sudden loss like that can be devastating.

Mik, her oldest son, and her daughter, Jes, are flying with her to the funeral for Monday. Christopher will meet her there and she will then spend a week with him and her grandchild – the best thing that could happen in these circumstances.

The second signal beeping from my cell was my son, little Miko’s daddy, who was sending me pictures of our brave girl. Every morning the first thing I do is check my phone for a wake-up photo ‘for Mémère’. It is a wonderful way to start the day. It’s even better when I get a second batch.

Early tomorrow I’ll be dropping off Easter eggs for my Rug rats, and collecting hugs, of course. My niece and her daughter will be coming back to the bush to share the turkey and to spend some time with us – it has been so long since their last visit too. I’m looking forward to the gabfest.

I’ll try to come back in by Monday and give you some news about my new office location, but until then I want to wish you all a HAPPY EASTER!! The bunny is already on his way to your door delivering my SMILES – he won’t be hard to recognize. Coming from Quebec at this time of year, he will be wearing a fur coat.

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

HIERARCHY

The family/friend gathering in the bush last Saturday was even more pleasurable because of the new babies. Miko and Alice were presented, much cuddled, and both little girls took it in stride, It wasn’t the first time for Léna, who is already 15 months old, but she discovered more friends, and got her share of attention too. The Rug Rats, after the initial hug for mémère on arrival, are oldest of the crew and maybe because they are of the male species decided to hole up on the other side of the house away from the crowd. Any kissy-kissy on their parts is now restricted to private moments.

I had a plate in each hand, heading for the already laden table, when Bali (the middle rug rat – the one who pushes the envelope) suddenly appeared before me.

“Mémère, can I play with your ipad?” he asked me, fixing me with those big, blue eyes.
“Where is it, Bali? Is it in the living room?” When he nodded, I told him to go ahead, but to be careful, and he went running off. It was only a few minutes later that I realized he hadn’t smiled at the permission; his expression had been more that of a ‘boy on a mission’.

Hmmm....

I made my way to the living room. All 3 boys were holding electronic game devices, but it wasn’t Bali who had my ipad; it was the oldest, Nalou, who was curled up in the big chair. Both his younger brothers were sitting on separate couches, pretending hard to ignore him without much success. His thumbs were racing over the game, and his comments ‘Wow – that’s a BIG monster! Where was he hiding? Oh, wow – I have to get him!!!’ were way too tempting, and Nalou was well aware of this.

I looked at Bali. So that was why he had come and asked! He was hoping that his ‘Mémère said I could play with her ipad!’ would force his brother to hand it over. It didn’t work, of course. It rarely does, but I guess he thought it was worth a shot.

I stood there, debating silently if I should interfere, and Bali glanced at me, then put his head down, pretending to concentrate on his game, and I interpreted this as a ‘No’.
It was the hierarchy of siblings at work here; as old as time, and each brother would acquiesce until old enough to find his own place. It’s all part of growing up.

I turned and walked back to the kitchen, my mind full of memories of how it had been with my younger brother when we were kids, and I SMILED.

Sharing the SMILE with you as always!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THREE STRIKES...

The company where I now work has recently purchased two lots of mini-warehouses, each lot containing 80 units, and one of my duties is to ascertain that these are well managed. The former employees are still there and, as often happens, they are not thrilled with the change. The information I receive from them is confusing, whether purposely or not, and is out of date. Many times it is even contradictory. I called them to warn that I would be coming by to inspect it all. They pleaded unavailability for the first day chosen, then the second; the third date was today, and I insisted that it could be delayed no longer.

The first hick was my forgetting to check the forecast -the weather was extremely cold and access to most of the units is by the exterior. My clipboard and pencil and are less competent at -20. Or it could be my hands – they don’t write so well when frozen stiff.

Next hick? Although I arrived a half hour earlier than scheduled, I was told that the employee who was to accompany me was already at the second lot. Apparently there is a problem with keys, and he went ahead to prepare.... and could I join him there? Because my GPS didn’t recognize the address, I was given verbal directions. Either I misunderstood, or they were just wrong. I took an unnecessary scenic tour of the area before my exasperation made me call my boss to steer me right. When I did arrive, the designated employee immediately voiced complaints about why this was being done, implying it was a waste of time, yada, yada, yada.

Dude!! This is the 3rd strike! (Ok, the weather really wasn’t his fault, but....)

I subtly reminded him who he worked for (by asking him), but he was still grumpy, voicing his discontent.

“Well, I guess it can be someone else who can come each week to help me do this,” I consoled him.

“Each week???” he exclaimed, staring at me. “What for?” I ignored his question and whipped out my cell phone.

“Ok – let’s go. I have to get pictures. This could take awhile.”

“A picture of each unit??” he sputtered, aghast at the thought. I nodded.

“Yep – boss wants to know what’s inside each unit.” We both knew that meant he would have to unlock and lift 80 sliding doors. He was maybe shivering with the cold now, but he would be sweating soon. And there were still another 80 back at the first lot.

I’ll make the long story short. My calm composure – or was it the hard work, or maybe noticing that I was shivering from the cold more than he was? Whatever, he eventually was more agreeable, and we even shared a few laughs during the 3 hours it required to finish our task. At the end, I teased him about being in shape, and secretly asked his co-worker (who will tell him I’m sure) what kind of beer the dude drank. He really did have to pedal, so I’ll show up bearing gifts next time.

I’m thinking the boss will be pleasantly surprised to see pictures. If not, I won’t charge him the full time I was there – it’s worth the SMILE I was wearing when I drove away.

Sharing it with you as usual. This SMILE may smack of some payback.... (wink!)

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

MARRIED???

I commented on a post that a close friend put up on Facebook, and was tagged in the Breast Cancer Awareness fun. For those not familiar with the game, if you comment on a player’s irregular status, you must then post something on your own status. They give you a choice of 10 rather amusing statements, and I figured that ‘I’m getting married’ would be the one to provoke the most reaction from any of my FB cronies. For each one who commented, most extending their congratulations for public view, and from some who didn’t dare comment publically, I received panicked, private messages asking me if it was for real...if I had fallen on my head....if Brad Pitt had finally relented and contacted me...and all were unanimous in their ‘NO WAY!’ It is hilarious!

I was wondering mostly what my kids would say. My daughter caught it immediately – she had been there, done that – and my oldest son sent me a text that he knew it had to be a joke, but that Yoshiko, his wife, thinks it’s for real and is freaking out. He says he’s having too much fun to tell her the truth. My youngest son has either not yet seen it, or is wisely keeping his opinion to himself. All in all, it sent out shock waves to those who know me well. Now I’ll wait and see if they will follow up and choose from the 10 choices to keep it going.

I do admit that I relented and warned my French-speaking-only friends that it wasn’t true and what it was about. This was done after the third time my telephone rang with OMG –You are kidding!’s. The directions for the game I sent on to my English people, but I would have to translate it for the others to understand, and office and cleaning and cooking for the family/friend invasion tomorrow don’t allow me enough time for the translation or for answering continuous calls. And we though Obama stirred up a hornet’s nest!!!

My BF doesn’t use Facebook, so he’ll only hear about it if someone mentions it to him – which is quite possible. The Bush is not that far from the village, and yes – like every other small place rumors fly fast and furious. I could warn him, but what fun would that be?

It’s a ‘to be continued’. In the meantime, I’m sending you all a huge SMILE, hoping something in your day will make you laugh as much as I am doing right now!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

FOR THE LOVE OF WINTER.

“I hate the winter! I just can’t wait for it to be all over.” The technician was fiddling with the machines as she ranted. I was standing, naked from the waist up, watching her with a leery eye; it seemed the more she stated her displeasure with the temperature, the more brusquely she handled the plates from the scanner. I couldn’t help but be alarmed - she would be manipulating a very sensitive part of my anatomy in a moment. This was not the time to admit that I loved our Canadian winter. I needed to make this lady smile.

"It's nearly over," I attempted to reassure her. "And I heard this week will see a lot of sun.”

“But cold!" she grumbled. “And another snowstorm on its way for the weekend! It doesn’t seem to end!” Uh-oh, I thought silently. This girl has a hard case of season blues and she was heading for me right now!

“I suppose that’s why many people go down south this time of the year – a kind of transition period until it gets warmer here.” I offered while taking a small step back from her.

“That’s exactly where I’m supposed to be!” she exclaimed. “But my vacation plans have been scrapped, so I’m stuck here, in this snow and freezing place!”

Damn! Wrong observation! I needed to think fast. She had her hand on my back and was briskly manoeuvring me into place before the s-q-u-e-e-z-e. And her hands were cold!

“Where?” I didn’t realize that I had yelled the word until she stopped and stared at me.

“What?” she asked, her eyes wide.

“Where do you go down south? What’s your favourite place? Do you visit or just lie in the sun? Ocean or villa pool?” I was babbling, but it was working. She hesitated, and her movements slowed. She was almost gentle as she fitted my right breast onto the bottom plate before lowering the top one.

OUCH! I am really not good with pain, so I hardly heard her answers. I think she mentioned Jamaica, and I believe she gave me some reasons for her love of sun and heat while she had me change positions, then sides, and then, thankfully, the mammography was done.

She was still going on about it as she opened the door to let me leave, but she was smiling now. I nodded to the lady next in line; this one would never know how much easier her examination would be because of my efforts.

On my way out, they stopped me at the counter to confirm my family doctor’s address. I gave the information and... the devil made me do it...

“By the way,” I said to the receptionist. “Tell your technician that I DO love winter. It’s way better than roasting in the summer.”

I SMILED all the way to the parking lot. Sharing it with you, as usual!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

WEEKENDS ARE FOR...

Wow! It’s like a Winter Fairyland out there. The prediction was for 5 cm, but I have at least 12 on my gallery, and it was shovelled right down to the wood before the storm began last night. It’s still snowing! Skiers will be jubilant; spring watchers, not so much. For my friends who arrived yesterday from the sunny shores of Mexico, welcome home, LOL!

I spent the whole day Saturday working in my home office, taking a short time out for an afternoon nap and, of course, last night’s hockey game, where my Habs kept me on the edge of my seat until I danced in celebration of their well-deserved win over the NY Islanders. Bandit lay purring on my knee at the start of the game, but soon felt it was safer to be elsewhere. Cats are NOT doggies.

Like TAPS, I used to walk barefoot everywhere it was allowed. Now there’s a huge corn on the sole of my right foot that I need to have removed regularly to even walk comfortably with shoes. I had an appointment with a new Foot Care lady, but cancelled because it was the day Miko was coming home from the hospital, so have been limping slightly. I was delighted when the lady called me back yesterday and, hearing my work schedule, offered to see me this morning at 10:00. I must add here that she is also a friend, although we don’t see each other often. I’m not sure she would accommodate everyone on a Sunday morning.

I definitely need to get some housework (UGH!) done today. There is to be a big shindig here next weekend –many of my son’s and my friends and families to come and meet little Miko. We didn’t really get together the past Christmas as is our tradition, so this will make up for our missing out. It will be even more fun because all the babies will be here too. It’s a pot-luck meal, thankfully, because Mémère would be hard put to find time to prepare a huge feast. All the ladies in the group are excellent cooks, and after enjoying their company for a few hours, I also get to keep the leftovers – food and booze. Thinking on that, it’s actually worth having to do the cleaning!

There you go -another full day on the agenda, and an Adnohr who grumbles but is actually grateful that she is still able to get (some) things done. And there could be surprises along the way. Each day seems to bring something unexpected. Ain’t it grand? (Sorry, Ciel).

The starter pistol has sounded, so off I go! Sending you a huge, SMILE, dancing its way to you, surrounded by hug, white, fluffy flakes of lovely snow!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

ABOUT BEING CHILDISH...

I know that we’ve been doing this daylight saving thing forever, and that the media is full of advice on how to cope with it, and that we shouldn’t be making a big deal out of it, and that it may be totally irrelevant to my feeling so exhausted at the moment, but I seem to be so much more tired than usual and I like it much better when we get to turn those clocks back an hour! Isn’t that a mouthful?

With that said, we move on.

One day last week my son sent me a picture of his friend, Keith, who had been to visit Miko. Keith is a very big, black man with a heart of gold. He has a 3 year old son, and one can see how he enjoys children. Tiny Miko didn’t even cover a quarter of his arm that was holding her.

For those of you who use Facebook, you are probably familiar with the ‘Why you don’t leave baby alone with Daddy’ videos. They are short clips with amusing antics – men playing rock music and dancing around their baby, or placing the little tyke on a remote controlled truck and driving him through the house; men being overgrown boys and playing with their child, doing things they probably wouldn’t do in the presence of a protective mommy.

My son posted a picture under the title, and there was little Miko wearing a large, curly, black wig. Under the photo, my son wrote ‘Keith – man – we gotta talk!!’ It was hilarious. Even more so with Keith’s answer: Hahaha! My bad !!!!! She's BLACKINISE - HALF BLACK half ASIAN!

As one girl commented – that baby will never find life boring with her daddy around. I was as much a child as my kids were (and often got lectured about it), and it’s heart-warming to see them continuing the games with their own. I know that little Miko will have many occasions to laugh as she thrives in this family of ours, and the knowledge makes me SMILE!

You’re welcome to share in the fun – I’ve sent the SMILE out and it should be bouncing around you at this very moment!! If it’s not the right size, let me know – there are bigger ones in stock!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

A LESSON

I couldn’t take it anymore. I was so lonesome for my baby that I skipped over to see her after work on Tuesday night. Well – skipped is maybe not the right word, seeing that I had to cross the city, but I was well rewarded with a few hours of Miko’s warmth and smell and little smiles. I rocked her as my son and I watched the Habs’ game. They lost, so there was no danger of her flying through the air – I’m rather demonstrative when celebrating a goal – and I kept my swearing to a minimum through the bad hockey moments. I tore myself away finally, and arrived home for bed around 2:30 AM. Yesterday was a loooong day.

My new job finds me among a few familiar co-workers, but there are also some bodies I am meeting for the first time. As I mentioned, my hours are flexible, and often I’ll walk into the office around 11 AM, having already put in a few hours from home or at the local branch. There is one man who remarks on my ‘cushy position’ each time he sees me arrive. I was laughing it off. He’s a bit mouthy anyway and I felt no need to explain myself. His looks and actions only reinforced my opinion of his character – not much there.

He was standing outside smoking when I got to work yesterday. He did his usual routine of looking at his watch, then feigning surprise because it was earlier than usual, so I decided that we would bring this to a head. I stopped to chat with him a few minutes, starting with the beautiful weather at that moment. One thing led to another, and imagine my surprise when I learned that he is an avid reader, that we enjoy many of the same authors! It even went so far as his offering to lend me certain volumes that interested me, and giving me addresses of some second-hand bookstores in the area. Knock me over with a feather, why don’t ya??

He held the door for me as we entered the building, and I could feel that subtle change in our attitudes. He’ll still bug me about my hours, but the teasing will be lighter, amusing, and I’ll accept it for what it is. I didn’t enlighten him as to why I don’t usually come in early. I have a little stubborn streak. He deserves to stew about it a bit longer anyway, just because of his previous behaviour.

Another lesson for Adnohr – Judge not!! Now, to avoid there being truth to his thinking, I had better get my butt in gear and start my work. Wishing you all a great day, and hoping that my SMILE adds some sunshine to whatever you’re doing!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

WHERE IS THAT TO-DO LIST AGAIN?

So – with all those intentions to get so much done this weekend, I have to report that most of those plans turned out to be only that…plans! Well, I did do the laundry, and a touch of dusting here and there, and of course I watched my Habs’ win their game on Saturday night, but those are the only things I can tick off my mental ‘To do list’ this Monday morning.
Bandit, my adopted cat, decided he would finally pull a dog routine and claim the attention he had missed during my week stay in the city. He was continually underfoot, mewling his complaints and/or joy at having me home. It was either kick him or cuddle him, and there is no contest really.

The phone was busy – Suzie from Detroit, my Cuban Suzie – and numerous texts from little Miko’s parents, the Rug rats (sent me a picture of the youngest wearing a Bruin’s shirt, young scoundrels!), other friends wondering how things were going, and to top it all, my daughter and little great granddaughter, Léna, spent Sunday morning here. She is 15 months old, running as fast as her chubby little legs can take her anywhere, and was quite intrigued by Bandit’s bell-balls. I hadn’t seen her for awhile, so we needed to catch up on hugging and kisses and fruit-loop snacking.

They were just leaving when Helen arrived, so more visiting. When she left, my son and I had a long distance discussion about the effects of mother’s nursing on a baby’s constipation...a good part of Sunday afternoon was used for research and discussion about the importance of baby pooping...or not, LOL!

Boring for some people, no doubt, but it is a huge part of my life, and one I would never think of exchanging for a high-stepping career. The perfect end to the weekend were the huge snowflakes playing and glittering under the gallery lights, a scene I enjoyed while relaxing in my Jacuzzi bubbles, the scent of Ocean breeze and the glass of red wine complimenting it all. The world may be in turmoil elsewhere, but here in the Bush life was good, so I am SMILING...and wanting to share it with y’all. Off it goes, soon to land on your doorstep. Any sent back to me will be treated with care!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.