AND THE WINNER IS....

My grandson is a linesman; he works on those huge towers that are strung out across our country to supply electricity. He’s leaving for Alberta, so will be away for more than a month at a time, coming home for a couple of days now and then until the job in that area is done. It’s great experience for him, but this M’mère is going to miss him like crazy, and not only because of all the muscle tasks he does around here. After more than a year of lads coming in and out of the house, it will seem very quiet.

My daughter (his mom) organised a supper for him yesterday evening, wanting us all together before Fred’s departure. We were supposed to meet at the restaurant for 6:30 or 7:00 PM. I mumbled something about the Habs playing against Detroit so, typical of my family, the time was changed to 5:30 – I would be home in time for the first period! And I was!! And what a game! I won’t elaborate, because they were playing Sam444’s favourite, and she was kind enough to be happy for my win.

I’m very vocal when the Habs score a goal. There’s a rather loud ‘Whoop-whoop!!’ which comes out part yell, part scream, and this is usually accompanied by a little jig. Grump is used to it, of course, and often joins me for the dance. I had forgotten about my poor, little, un-initiated Smooch.

The puppy was playing around at my feet when the first goal happened. I went into action...and Smooch went into panicked flight!! His ears back and his tail between his legs, he scooted into his box and hid there, waiting for whatever terrible action that was sure to follow such a horrifying screech! The expression on his face broke me up ....I giggled until my stomach hurt! After comforting him for a few minutes and coaxing him back out, I continued to watch the game. Another goal! Another celebration! After 5 minutes or so, I realized that Smooch had disappeared once again. Yep, he was back in his box; sitting there quietly, head cocked to one side, listening intently, and probably wondering if it was safe to come out yet. It was hilarious!

Taking care of a puppy, as with any baby, is a lot of extra work, not something I need right now. Yet...when I balance that against the number of SMILES he brings to my face in a day, guess which way the scales tip? I don’t even have to confirm it, do I?

Sending you some of those SMILES, folks. Hope they make your day a little brighter!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE HABS

The HABS did it again last night! The game had just ended and my telephone rang. Ah-ha! Somebody who had good timing!!

It was Karen, my friend whose house we invaded in Saskatoon a couple of weeks ago. She was laughing when I answered. She figured she would be interrupting the little victory dance the doggies and I do on such occasions, LOL. We chatted long enough – and maybe that’s what caused me to sleep in this morning? No harm done. After listening to the traffic report, I decided to work from home anyway. Yesterday, although I had tried to avoid it, the trip was necessary; 2 ½ hours to get in, then the same to come home. I just wasn’t up to it today – enough is enough.

Tomorrow is our ‘5 à 7’, the annual Christmas party we have for the employees and clients. A glass of wine or beer, a couple of sandwiches, a bit of socializing – nothing elaborate. The huge office parties of yore are expensive, and those kinds of events never turned me on. As I get older, I like them even less. We distribute wine and cheese basket as gifts instead. The clients seem to appreciate it more….AND nobody does the drunken fool bit, or loses a driving permit on the way home.

On December 17th, my grandson will be back from Abitibi, where he is presently working, and has told his mom that he’s renting a U-haul to move his stuff into the apartment downstairs. M’mère (French equivalent of ‘granny’) is happy! It will be so nice to have him around. I know he spends most of his free time up on the ski hills, but he also has a huge TV, and is a HABS fan. I wonder if he’ll join our dance when they win?

Speaking of which – the long anticipated game between Detroit and Montreal is happening this Friday night. I’m preparing my ‘sympathy’ packages for some Wings fans. I’ve mentioned it so often that some people, who don’t usually follow the sport, will be watching this one just to see if I get egg on my face. Nah – I’m pretty sure there’ll be some Canadien logos making their way across the USA border the next day.

And that thought makes me SMILE!!!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THAT GUY MORPHEUS

Ha! Ha! Ha! I giggled yesterday when someone who reads my blog asked me ‘Who is this guy Morpheus? Sounds quirky – handcuffing him to the bed?’ I actually considered letting her think that Morpheus was a new flame…but I decided to be wise and contribute to the interrogator’s education instead. “Morpheus, the Greek god of dreams and a very elusive fellow indeed for insomniacs like myself,” I answered. Now the remarks in my Blog had a whole new meaning for her, and are probably far less exciting, LOL!

Working from home means spending a lot of time on the telephone, and yesterday was no exception. My ear was sore and swollen by four o’clock. However, there were a couple of new leads for our health service, and that’s a good thing.

I have to wonder where I’ll find enough energy to keep it all going. It helps when I get adequate sleep, but the amount of sleep I get is directly related to the activity in my mind which, in turn, is needed to plan procedures to get the company back on its feet which, in the end, will depend on the energy used to carry out the plans; that same energy which is related to the amount of sleep I get…and we’re right back to the beginning of the circle! Age is a factor too, I guess, although I know people older than me who hop on their bicycle and pedal from Montreal to Rigaud, play tennis at least once a week, and never seem to stop. And yes, I’m talking about you, my friend, Kilroy!

The financial stress we are dealing with at the moment doesn’t help either. It dominates my thoughts. Advisors tell me it is all part of business; learn to deal with it, don’t take it so seriously. I stand there nodding. Yep. Okay. Got that. Except…I don’t like it, and I hate the feeling of reoccurring panic that appears as soon as the advisors are out of sight. I’m sure a lot of my necessary energy is wasted just by talking myself out of the panic!

My, oh my! Can’t I get myself in turmoil so early in the morning?

Don’t worry, folks; it’s just a bit of venting. All it takes to bring me up is the thought of my family, my friends, and the multitude of good things in this adventurous world. I’m one of those ‘glass is half-full’ people, and fully believe that, no matter what happens, or what kind of challenge you face, it’s always easier to take care of it when you’re SMILING! Life does go on, and my life is good!

Besides….the HABS are playing again tonight…..

Have a good day, y’all!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec

FIGHTING FOR POPPIES

It happens each year at this time; some corporate ‘so & so’ makes the idiotic decision that his/her shopping mall will no longer allow Canadian Legion members to sit there and sell poppies for the two weeks before Remembrance Day. Hey, I go out of my way to buy those lovely, red, flower pins, often one for each member of my family too. While I am handing the money to the smiling seller, I say a silent word of thanks and appreciation to our veterans, AND to our present day soldiers, that I am still Canadian, living in a free country, due to their efforts.

The people sitting quietly behind those tables are usually elderly volunteers who in no way harass you by word or deed to contribute. The money accumulated after hours of their time is totally used for the needs of our armed forces personnel who have come home wounded, in body and/or mind, either from past or the ongoing war.

When I heard the news on the radio yesterday morning, the first thing that came to mind was sending the corporate ass over to the Middle East to live with our soldiers for a couple of months. That wouldn’t resolve the problem; there is always another pompous manager to fill the shoes. What probably would put an end to it would be shoppers boycotting that particular shopping mall for at least the two week period. Money, or in this case, the lack of money, has a way of grabbing attention. So does bad publicity. By the time I was driving home, those responsible for the refusal had turned about. After a day’s derision by the media, they have now decided to welcome the veterans with open arms. I should hope so!!

Someone else who was welcomed with open arms yesterday was my grandson, who arrived home from northern Abitibi on his 20th birthday. His mom (my daughter), invited us over for a fondue supper to celebrate. He is here only for five days, then will be returning to work another 16 day stint. Mom and family got to coddle him only a short time this first evening; friends were waiting in the background and, at his age, are far more interesting, LOL!

It worked out fine for me. I was home for the start of the hockey game, and cheered on my HABS as they beat the Islanders. When the dancing was over, the doggies and I went for a short walk. The moon was bright, the weather perfect for a light jacket, and we roamed around outside for a good half hour. Maybe it was the fresh, mountain air, or it could have been that sleep was short the night before; whatever the reason, Morpheus was ready and willing when my Jacuzzi ritual was over. My snooze only lasted until 5 AM, but it was a deep snooze, so no complaints here.

Today I’ll be working from home, so both the doggies and I are SMILING! I’m sure at least one thing will give you reason to SMILE too this Thursday. There you go – we’ve got something to share! Have a good one, folks!


Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

A SPECIAL GUEST

My brother had never been up to Mont Tremblant. Even with the constant rain during our long drive, he was able to appreciate the spectacular beauty of the mountains and lakes in that area. Then again, we were on our way to meet his daughter, and his mood was such that it could have been a blizzard and he’d have still been jubilant. J. had finished a series of meetings at the Chateau, and was to spend a few days with us before returning to her home in NB. It had been over two years since we had last seen her. She’s a cheerful, giggling person, and having her around is a pleasure.

Both J. and my brother have been staying at my home since her arrival on Friday. There was much catching up to do, and we sat chatting into the wee hours of the morning. I knew my bro needed some alone time with her too, and it just so happened that the HABS were playing hockey both last night and tonight, so it all worked out. I was at one end of the house hollering and dancing as I watched the games, and they sat at the other end trying to hear each other over my noise, LOL! Tomorrow (I should say later today) the rest of my clan (my children and their children) will be joining us for a Sunday BBQ. J. will spent one night with my daughter, then be back here with my bro for Monday. On Tuesday morning I’ll drop her off at the airport for her trip home, then continue on to the hospital for my brother’s appointment with the lung specialist.

Missing two days work will take its toll, of course. I am aware that next weekend needs to be reserved for the business. Believe me, just seeing my bro so happy is worth it. His battle with cancer has been difficult; anything that makes him smile this much is okay with me!

In the meantime, it is nearly 6 AM and I’ve had about 4 hours sleep since yesterday morning. Having company didn’t cure my insomnia even if it did keep me from using the vacuum at 3 AM, LOL! I want to be partially alert when my gang shows up later, so will sign off and attempt finding Morpheus one more time before the sun rises.

Have a good day, folks. It’s a sure thing that it will be fine for me; my family will be here, and that never fails to bring on my SMILE! Sending it your way ……

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

THANKSGIVING DAY

I didn’t get one lick of housework done after all, and have company coming later. That means I’ll be racing around, trying to finish up everything before they arrive, and I just hate it when I do this to myself!! (Sigh), as Kabu would say. From hard-earned experience, I know things will turn out okay; the house will end up in some semblance of order, the turkey will be cooked in time, and there will be enough food to go around. And, by the time everyone leaves tonight, yours truly be one wilted flower!

Wanting to be home whenever the electrician would be coming around, I decided to go for the groceries immediately after writing my blog yesterday. The Thanksgiving crowd was out and about town. It was busy everywhere! I returned to the house later than planned, and had only the time to unload the groceries when Helen dropped in. That she needed to talk was evident, so everything was put on hold as I tried to comfort my friend. She had no sooner left than the phone started to ring; from my ex-associate, to friends, to my children. Most of the afternoon was spent clutching an idle dust mop in one hand and the receiver in the other. What’s more, the darned electrician dude never did show up!

Around 5 PM, after a couple of cajoling calls from my Cubans, I decided to go for supper with them after all, hockey or no hockey. Imagine my delight when I arrived at their house to find the oldest son had installed a TV in the dining room, and the HABS were doing their thing! SO COOL! I have to admit that I wasn’t much of a guest. With my eyes glued nearly 100 percent of the time on the screen, my contribution to the conversation around the dinner table was minimal. They did get to watch me yell and dance when the Habs scored the winning goal at the last minute – so I imagine I was dubbed the entertainment for the night, LOL!

I wasn’t late getting back home, but certainly not into housework at that time. I played with the doggies for a bit. After being practically ignored all day, they were quite adamant about receiving loving attention. Then it was into the Jacuzzi, and into bed. Morpheus was very accommodating last night; he held me tight for a straight 6 hours.

The first coffee is out of the way, Kilroy’s blog has been read, so things are looking up. On goes the music, out come the pails & soap – it’s rock ‘n roll on Thanksgiving Sunday! But not before wishing you all a great day, and sending you a huge SMILE!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

DAWN

The coffee was not quite ready, so I stepped out on the gallery to get a better view of the sun rising. It was that space of time between dark and light called dawn. I nodded good morning to my mountain and my trees, and we stood silent together, absorbed by the call of loons – that plaintiff sound so memorable to anyone who ever hears it. Even the dogs were still as we listened; their ears high, tails twitching; waiting for me to make a move. My yawn broke the spell just as the first rays peeped over the tall fir trees. Grump-puppy spied something interesting near the apple tree and raced down the stairs, Bud close behind him. I watched for a second, then a whiff of fresh coffee floated out through the open door, enticing me to return inside. It was the beginning of a new day.

This morning the nurse who works in our Health Division Company will be driving into the city with me. She’s a very nice person, but also very chatty, a trait I’m not particularly fond of early in the day. My long AM drive is far more enjoyable when I can plan my day in my head, music in the background, without having to answer repeated questions, or comment on what is doing well and what isn’t. The positive note is that she’ll also be driving back with me tonight, which means we can take the left lane reserved for buses or taxis or cars sharing commuters. It saves at least a half hour of negotiating traffic, and the HABS second game in the semi-finales is televised as of 7 PM….need I say more?

I’ve already done a couple of hours work, had time to read Kilroy’s blog, my e-mail, looked in on Facebook, and now it’s time to dress and run. A good start, wouldn’t you say?

Hoping you have the occasion to use your SMILE throughout the day. I’m already wearing mine – and it’s a biggie!! Sending it out to you all….

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

ON OUR WAY TO STANLEY...

They did it!! The HABS are on a roll, and last night my living room was very lively with a screaming, cheering lady (me) dancing around with two very excited doggies – our way of celebrating when our team scores the goals. This is taking place in front of a huge window, but it seems the only neighbour who could possible see us (if he’s walking in the bush at the time) is a Hab’s fan too – so instead of thinking the worst (like, do you think she’s dangerous??), he will understand. Unfortunately, looters DO use the country’s ‘Hab Fever’ as an excuse for their rotten deeds…..reports from Montreal are of tear gas wielding cops being necessary in the streets once again. I had thought of joining one of my co-workers to watch the game, but her condo is right downtown, and I decided I didn’t want to spoil my joy by being too close to that kind of ignorance. Besides, it would have taken forever to drive out of the area, IF your car is still intact and not in flames. ‘Idiots’ is too good a word…..

Because I finally slept at 7:30 AM yesterday, I was late for my much anticipated lunch date with my friend, Kilroy. He very patiently waited for me, and we walked the couple of blocks to the restaurant, chatting all the while. It’s a treat to spend time with dear friends, although I fear I burdened him somewhat with my choice of subjects. I usually thrive on a positive outlook; I imagine the lack of sleep has been weighing on my mood lately and, because he is so easy to talk to, Kilroy got the brunt of it. My friend, if you are reading this, I assure you that I will accept any invoice received for services rendered; I’m sure you weren’t expecting to be put in the position of a psychologist, and I apologize. On a brighter note, you’re very good at it, so if you ever decide to come out of retirement, there could be a future for you in that vocation…..LOL.

The sun is shining out there; the HABS are on top, and the today is a new venture, or at the very least holds something to learn. I’m wearing my SMILE – hope you are too. Have a good one!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.

DOGS & THINGS.

Grump-puppy woke me at 3:45 this morning. He came running into my bedroom, then did the back-and-forth thing between it and the kitchen, whining loudly, until I sleepily crawled out of bed and opened the door to let him outside. I attempted a return to the arms of Murphy, but it was no go. I lay there wondering why he wanted out so badly; it’s not a usual thing that early. Picturing an encounter with a skunk, or porcupine, or maybe an intruder who was not aware there are two pit-bulls allowed to run free in my yard, I finally got up. The little bugger was at the door 15 minutes later, and I still don’t have a clue what enticed him to risk the wrath of his mistress by waking her in the middle of the night. Thankfully he wasn’t sporting quills or the choking odour of our black and white-striped varmints. He slunk back to his pillow, settled down beside Bud, and had no problem at all falling back to sleep…GRRRR!

This morning I need to get to the SAQ and renew the plates for the Backhoe. The season for excavation has arrived. We picked up a contract, and the client wants to begin today. After that is done, I’ll run up to the office for a couple of hours, then come back early to pick up Bud for the appointment with the vet. His ears are itching again, and I’ve noticed a growth between two toes, This is going to be an expensive day.

The follow-up on my decision to buy a treadmill? After looking at the price of those things, I finally ended up buying a Gazelle for nearly $400 less. Maybe you have seen the advertisement on TV? The claim on the box (and from the sales-person) is that your whole body gets toned, not just your heart and legs. On a closer inspection last night, I realized one also needs to have co-ordinated balance to use it. Humm…I foresee hours of pleasure just getting used to that! There is some assembly required, of course...another thing I’m very good at (Not!) so I will attempt to set it up when we get back from the vet. To be continued.

Tonight is the third game between my HABS and Pittsburgh. I guess I don’t need to tell you where I’ll be at that time. My enthusiasm has sparked friendly competition and bets in the office. The employees, not ordinarily into hockey, are watching the games now and there are lively discussions about the plays. Well, to be honest, a couple of the girls know next to nothing about the sport, so their idea of a player’s value tends to be directly related to how cute he is…LOL!

I had my first coffee out on the gallery, watching the sun peep over my mountain, but now the sky is dark and it is pouring rain out there. How did that happen? The Weather Network is saying sunny and warm for our area…no rain expected. Long live the accuracy of weather predictions! Now I’m wondering if we’ll be starting that excavation contract today or not….

I have much to do when I recover from my constant need to sleep; it happens every year after the hassle of tax season. There are friends to visit or meet for lunch, spring cleaning to get done, a pile of books waiting to be read, not counting a multitude of posts on my Blogit writers’ site to catch up on. At least it is all fun things, and I’m looking forward to it, except maybe the spring cleaning, although I enjoy the feeling once it’s done.

Have a good day, people, whether rain or shine wherever you are. It’s the merry month of May, trees and flowers are budding, birds are singing, and there’s a ‘fresh start’ atmosphere. It makes me SMILE – and I’m sending it your way!

Luv from the Bush in Quebec.