Season’s Greeting for 2011
Although fewer and fewer people send Christmas letters anymore., we hold this old tradition as a way to touch base with you. This year was, as is usual, full of changes and challenges for our family. All in all, it was a good 365 days !
We had a lovely Christmas last year with Dave’s family in Charlottetown, PEI. We went to hockey games, shopping trips and enjoyed a blizzard! Jim’s niece Ann came from NB to spent a day with us. It was so nice to see her. Dave is now a relief supervisor with Canada Post. He is enjoying the variety of work in his job. Colleen is busy with her quilting business and does some marketing on the weekends. She also volunteers at the kids’ school. Kylie is in Grade 4. She has a creative spirit and excels at school. Jake is our logical one. He is now in Grade 2 and has discovered his skating legs. He plays hockey and is developing some great skills. He, too, enjoys school. Math seems to be his forte!
Viv and Rick are at their same places of work. Rick is still very busy with his community club offices. Viv still battles her migraines. Matthew is going to high school now. He is enjoying his new classes. His transition was easy as he already knew some of his teachers. As he reaches puberty, his eczema has improved immensely.. He is now able to function so much easier. Yesterday he said, “Now, if only we could fix my heart!” He will need to have a valve replaced but hopefully not yet. He had a stress test done this year and he is now waiting for an invasive procedure.
Lisa changed her workplace this year. She is now an accounts receivable clerk for a trucking company. She has a new fellow in her life. She reconnected with Ed on face book. They were friends in Grade school. Ed’s sister is one of Laurie’s best friends. Alyssa is now in Grade 10, has her learner’s license and is a joy to be with. She still has aspirations to be a doctor. Amanda is living on a farm near Quill Lake with her fellow. She is taking some correspondence courses she needs in order to get back into a nursing program next year. She is working part time in a group home in Humbolt. Dustin is still in the oil servicing industry, He is 26. Imagine! Our oldest grandchild is midway through his twenties.
Laurie and Rod bought a home in Parksville, BC. They moved in early January. I visited them in April. Oh my, they truly are living in the Riviera of Canada! Rod is a mortgage specialist with Scotia Bank. Laurie was contacted by a head hunter and is now the bank manager of the HSBC bank in Nanaimo. Jenna received her master’s degree in geology and is employed by The Athabasca Oil Company. She is now living in Calgary, She is curling out of the Calgary Curling Club and thinks she has found heaven.
In October Laurie, our cousin Elaine and I went to Ireland for a few days. It was an early 70th birthday gift for me, Yep, I turn 70 in June of 2012. We had a wonderful holiday. I especially enjoyed visiting Trinity College in Dublin. This was the school our ancestor Thomas Duke went to about 1820. Then we went to Leitrim where he was born. It was a dream come true for me. I shall never forget it. Of course, the company I kept added to the ambience. There really are many shades of green in Ireland. It is a country of contrasts -grays and greens.
Jim, a very youthful 81 still climbs ladders, gardens, does the lawn work and snow blows our driveway as well as the neighbours. He doesn’t know he supposed to be elderly. LOL He does get tired a little more quickly, imagine that! His leukemia hasn’t progressed. He does have to get regular blood tests though. He keeps threatening not to go as it is a waste of his time!
Jim spends his spare time doing jigsaw puzzles and listening to his country music. I spend mine scrap booking, making cards, genealogy and reading. We will have been married 50 years come April. Jim still drinks tea and I, coffee. We surely aren’t bookends.
We send you our very best wishes for a year full of blessings and good health.
Merry Christmas !
Cuddling with Grandpa
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Monday, October 10, 2011
Ireland is really Green
We arrived Saturday am Dublin time. It was the middle of the night to we Canucks. After passing through customs - being in a whellchair is truly an advantage with the red tape crowd - Elaine got our rental car.
It was lovely a very new model, BUT - it was a standard and the shift was on the left side so our driver had to adjust to both driving on the left sidea and shifting that way. This was not easy. So after several starts and stalls, trying to shift into the right gear we jerked our way out onto the road to Raheeny and our B&B.
Well. ten minutes on, we were stopped - dead as a door nail- on the yellow line of course. It is illegal to stop at this spot. There were many honks and unfriendly fingers before a nice gentleman came to help us.
He had a cell phone which he used to call the car rental place.
After a very long wait for assistance, my girls became a little giddy. So they penned a very large SORRY, EH on some paper and Elaine held it up so the traffic could read it. It broght many smiles, laughter and downright bewilderment for some of the folks.
We did arrive safely at our destination and are in a lovely old home where the hostess is most gracious.
We spent two days exploring Dublin and absorbing the history of this very old city.
Tomorrow we head off to Leitrim County where the Dukes lived in the early 1800's.
We will have lots of Dublin tales and pictures to share but we are all very tired tonight and so must say goodnight from Ireland.
It was lovely a very new model, BUT - it was a standard and the shift was on the left side so our driver had to adjust to both driving on the left sidea and shifting that way. This was not easy. So after several starts and stalls, trying to shift into the right gear we jerked our way out onto the road to Raheeny and our B&B.
Well. ten minutes on, we were stopped - dead as a door nail- on the yellow line of course. It is illegal to stop at this spot. There were many honks and unfriendly fingers before a nice gentleman came to help us.
He had a cell phone which he used to call the car rental place.
After a very long wait for assistance, my girls became a little giddy. So they penned a very large SORRY, EH on some paper and Elaine held it up so the traffic could read it. It broght many smiles, laughter and downright bewilderment for some of the folks.
We did arrive safely at our destination and are in a lovely old home where the hostess is most gracious.
We spent two days exploring Dublin and absorbing the history of this very old city.
Tomorrow we head off to Leitrim County where the Dukes lived in the early 1800's.
We will have lots of Dublin tales and pictures to share but we are all very tired tonight and so must say goodnight from Ireland.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Where have the months gone?
It has been so long since I have sat down and blogged. I don't know where the time has gone!
I spent a wonderful week in Parksville with my daughter and her husband. It was a relaxing and peaceful week. Oh my, they have a lovely home and a quaint community to nest in. I spent wonderful hours with them touring the area and spotting birds such as eagles, Brandt geese and rosy colored finches. The most amusing sight was that of the mule deer who have no fear of civilization.There is no hunting allowed on the Island so they are very calm and meander at will. I was amused to see them standing on the front step of an affluent home and acting as though they really lived there!
We spent an hour at my aunt and uncle's yard and beach. It was a time of contemplation and memories for me!
I took a picture of my uncle's license plate which is still on the van. Uncle Bill was an amputee as a result of his WW2 injuries.
He met my aunt while he was a patient in Shaunessy Hospital where she worked. They found solace in nature and had a special fondness for birds, It was especially poignant to spy the bright red cardinal carving with the word Bye on it that one would read as they drove away from the yard.
I also had a short visit with my sister and her fellow who came over from Langley. She has been very ill so it was good see her beginning to recover from her latest battle. They all took me to Comox for my flight home. As we drove down the hill into the city the SnowBirds flew up in a formation. Rod grinned as he said it was my special goodbye from the Island. In reality, the Snowbirds practice there every day. It was a breathtaking sight though and is embedded in my memory bank.
AS I sat in my seat on the plane waiting for the take off I silently sent a toast to my BC family.May their lives be enriched as they live amid such beauty. Mother Nature surely blessed our western province.
Cheers from Donna
I spent a wonderful week in Parksville with my daughter and her husband. It was a relaxing and peaceful week. Oh my, they have a lovely home and a quaint community to nest in. I spent wonderful hours with them touring the area and spotting birds such as eagles, Brandt geese and rosy colored finches. The most amusing sight was that of the mule deer who have no fear of civilization.There is no hunting allowed on the Island so they are very calm and meander at will. I was amused to see them standing on the front step of an affluent home and acting as though they really lived there!
We spent an hour at my aunt and uncle's yard and beach. It was a time of contemplation and memories for me!
He met my aunt while he was a patient in Shaunessy Hospital where she worked. They found solace in nature and had a special fondness for birds, It was especially poignant to spy the bright red cardinal carving with the word Bye on it that one would read as they drove away from the yard.
I also had a short visit with my sister and her fellow who came over from Langley. She has been very ill so it was good see her beginning to recover from her latest battle. They all took me to Comox for my flight home. As we drove down the hill into the city the SnowBirds flew up in a formation. Rod grinned as he said it was my special goodbye from the Island. In reality, the Snowbirds practice there every day. It was a breathtaking sight though and is embedded in my memory bank.
AS I sat in my seat on the plane waiting for the take off I silently sent a toast to my BC family.May their lives be enriched as they live amid such beauty. Mother Nature surely blessed our western province.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Unexpected Curves
One never knows what a day will bring. I had a quiet morning. I made a batch of lemon tarts for my grandson as he is 14 today, St. Paddy's Day. Matthew and his Grandpa share the love all things lemon! Forget the chocolate cakes and cheese cakes, just give them something lemon.
This afternoon my friend and I went out on a few errands and I came home to enjoy a quiet time. My daughter called from Parksville to tell me how excited she is that I will soon be visiting them. After a nice chat and our Irish Day greetings, Jim and I had a none green supper.
Then my daughter called back - ok - this isn't good. My antennae were quivering. Sure enough, she called to tell me that my sisiter who lives in Langley is quite ill. When I called my sister's home, her friend answered and told me he had just called an ambulance. So here we are waiting to hear the prognosis. My baby sister has several rare and potentially dangerous forms of autoimmune diseases: her health is precarious at the best of times. I am sitting here hoping for good news and fearing the worst. She had called me one day last week asking about our Ireland connections. She told me that she wasn't really well so if she was to get over the water to visit our ancestral land she needed to go soon. That should have been my cue.
I am thankful that I am flying west very soon. I want to see her. She was born when I ws 15 and I loved that wee babe so much. When I left home, she was the one I pined for.
I am sorry my post is a downer tonight but, God willing, tomorrow the sun will shine and all will be well.
Here's a toast to optimism!
This afternoon my friend and I went out on a few errands and I came home to enjoy a quiet time. My daughter called from Parksville to tell me how excited she is that I will soon be visiting them. After a nice chat and our Irish Day greetings, Jim and I had a none green supper.
Then my daughter called back - ok - this isn't good. My antennae were quivering. Sure enough, she called to tell me that my sisiter who lives in Langley is quite ill. When I called my sister's home, her friend answered and told me he had just called an ambulance. So here we are waiting to hear the prognosis. My baby sister has several rare and potentially dangerous forms of autoimmune diseases: her health is precarious at the best of times. I am sitting here hoping for good news and fearing the worst. She had called me one day last week asking about our Ireland connections. She told me that she wasn't really well so if she was to get over the water to visit our ancestral land she needed to go soon. That should have been my cue.
I am thankful that I am flying west very soon. I want to see her. She was born when I ws 15 and I loved that wee babe so much. When I left home, she was the one I pined for.
I am sorry my post is a downer tonight but, God willing, tomorrow the sun will shine and all will be well.
Here's a toast to optimism!
Friday, February 11, 2011
What a wonderful day!
I have been riveted to the telly this week. Watching the Egyptians struggle for freedom as I sit safely in the warmth and security of my home has been surreal. I only hope that now they are rid of their dictator, they will be able to enjoy the democracy that suits their people. I wish them the peace and the luxury of free speech that we in Canada enjoy. Their struggle to make Egypt a thriving country has just begun but oh, my --- what a wonderful start. I salute the brave women and men of Egypt.
Harriet and I went to our favourite scrapbooking store for a party today! It was her"coming out' event. LOL. We had pizza and drinks in the back room of the store. It was a fun hour as we shared stories and laughs. Thanks Harriet, for hosting this lunch. Of course, we had a few new toys find their way into our shopping baskets.
All in all, it has been a fabulous day. Let those freedom bells ring.
Cheers from Donna
Harriet and I went to our favourite scrapbooking store for a party today! It was her"coming out' event. LOL. We had pizza and drinks in the back room of the store. It was a fun hour as we shared stories and laughs. Thanks Harriet, for hosting this lunch. Of course, we had a few new toys find their way into our shopping baskets.
All in all, it has been a fabulous day. Let those freedom bells ring.
Cheers from Donna
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
What a Life!
I am spending lots of time playing these days! I love my kobo - an e-reader. I also love all my toys in my craft room and of course, I would "just die" if I didn't have my computer(s). None of these relaxing days would be happening except for my fairy godmother Lesya who spent four hours here today, scrubbing and shining up our home. She is a treasure.
My friend Harriet broke her foot a couple of weeks ago. As her husband works full time. I have been her companion for her doctor appointments.
We had a quite an adventure on Monday. I took her to the cast clinic at the hospital. I got the complimentary wheelchair that sits at the information booth in the rotunda; stuffed Harriet into the seat (without doing too much damage to her poor foot) ; wheeled her into the hospital and then parked my car. After her cast was sawed off, we were told to go across the street where she would be fitted for her walking boot. I, in my infinite wisdom and with no other obvious choice, decided to wheel her over to the Brandon Clinic for her procedure. Bad move! The street was rutted and impossible to traverse with this chair. We got stuck in the middle of the street. Thankfully, a fellow kindly helped us out of the predicament and with his strength pushed Harriet to safety. We were in business again. Down to the basement we decended in the elevator. Whammo - the ramp was steep, too steep for me to be in control of the chair. I had to brake sharply and nearly sent Harrriet flying --- into the brick wall at the base of the ramp!
By now, the silliness had us in paroxisms of laughter. All was well, she got her boot and I took her to the exit at the other end of the building. I walked back to the hospital parking lot, drove over to the clinic and picked up my passenger. Oh dear, I still have the wheel chair to return. Harriet suggested I load it in the car and drive back as I had to retreive her crutches anyway. I pushed and pulled, twisted and turned but the darned thing would not fit. A couple of helpful fellows came over and they pushed and pulled until voila! They succeeded. Back to the hospital we drove; pulled up to the ten minute parking zone and tried to remove the chair from my car. I pulled and pushed, turned and twisted. swore and laughed but it was there to stay. A lovely young Hutterite lady got out of her van to help me. She gave up and went back to her vehicle.Again, a good samaritan came to our rescue. He struggled for some time before he succeeded. Thank goodness. I don't have a wheelchair living permanently in my back seat!
So to all the friendly Manitobans who helped a couple of antique women, I salute you!
Cheers from Donna
My friend Harriet broke her foot a couple of weeks ago. As her husband works full time. I have been her companion for her doctor appointments.
We had a quite an adventure on Monday. I took her to the cast clinic at the hospital. I got the complimentary wheelchair that sits at the information booth in the rotunda; stuffed Harriet into the seat (without doing too much damage to her poor foot) ; wheeled her into the hospital and then parked my car. After her cast was sawed off, we were told to go across the street where she would be fitted for her walking boot. I, in my infinite wisdom and with no other obvious choice, decided to wheel her over to the Brandon Clinic for her procedure. Bad move! The street was rutted and impossible to traverse with this chair. We got stuck in the middle of the street. Thankfully, a fellow kindly helped us out of the predicament and with his strength pushed Harriet to safety. We were in business again. Down to the basement we decended in the elevator. Whammo - the ramp was steep, too steep for me to be in control of the chair. I had to brake sharply and nearly sent Harrriet flying --- into the brick wall at the base of the ramp!
By now, the silliness had us in paroxisms of laughter. All was well, she got her boot and I took her to the exit at the other end of the building. I walked back to the hospital parking lot, drove over to the clinic and picked up my passenger. Oh dear, I still have the wheel chair to return. Harriet suggested I load it in the car and drive back as I had to retreive her crutches anyway. I pushed and pulled, twisted and turned but the darned thing would not fit. A couple of helpful fellows came over and they pushed and pulled until voila! They succeeded. Back to the hospital we drove; pulled up to the ten minute parking zone and tried to remove the chair from my car. I pulled and pushed, turned and twisted. swore and laughed but it was there to stay. A lovely young Hutterite lady got out of her van to help me. She gave up and went back to her vehicle.Again, a good samaritan came to our rescue. He struggled for some time before he succeeded. Thank goodness. I don't have a wheelchair living permanently in my back seat!
So to all the friendly Manitobans who helped a couple of antique women, I salute you!
Cheers from Donna
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Oh Canada
Oh my. It is so very cold today. This week we have been in a very deep, deep freeze. The temperature did improve but the wind was so fierce the chill penetrated right through my bones.
I have been watching the terrible situation in Egypt. Thankfully, Rick's family escaped the violence. They were on the first flight Canada chartered from Cairo. It was a time fraught with danger for them. They were among those who had to pay the guards $2000.00 before they were allowed on the plane. After the money was extorted, the Egyptians tried to force them back to their homes and abort their flight. I am sure that as cold as Brandon is this week, their welcome home was warmer than one could imagine. We are so lucky to be Canadians. There are worse things than our climate. Freedom is sacred.
The Lieutenant Governor's Festival starts tomorrow. Jim and our neighbour have plans to attend. Good for them. I don't like standing in line ups since I broke my leg. The pain isn't worth the pleasure of the affair. Matthew used ot be the mascot for the German pavillion! He is really a mix of Anglosaxon and Hungarian; there is no German in his blood. LOL He was the right size to wear the lederhosen. That is where he started honing his public relations skills. I think that Pavillion has taken a hiatus this year.
Our little city has become quite the amalgam of cultures. When we moved here, there were very few different coloured skin tones. Now, we are such a mix. It make our town an exciting place to live. There are several sushi bars, a Korean restaurant, Italian, Greek and we even have a Newfie cafe! What a country!
Here's a toast to the greatest country in the world. Oh Canada!
Cheers from Donna
I have been watching the terrible situation in Egypt. Thankfully, Rick's family escaped the violence. They were on the first flight Canada chartered from Cairo. It was a time fraught with danger for them. They were among those who had to pay the guards $2000.00 before they were allowed on the plane. After the money was extorted, the Egyptians tried to force them back to their homes and abort their flight. I am sure that as cold as Brandon is this week, their welcome home was warmer than one could imagine. We are so lucky to be Canadians. There are worse things than our climate. Freedom is sacred.
The Lieutenant Governor's Festival starts tomorrow. Jim and our neighbour have plans to attend. Good for them. I don't like standing in line ups since I broke my leg. The pain isn't worth the pleasure of the affair. Matthew used ot be the mascot for the German pavillion! He is really a mix of Anglosaxon and Hungarian; there is no German in his blood. LOL He was the right size to wear the lederhosen. That is where he started honing his public relations skills. I think that Pavillion has taken a hiatus this year.
Our little city has become quite the amalgam of cultures. When we moved here, there were very few different coloured skin tones. Now, we are such a mix. It make our town an exciting place to live. There are several sushi bars, a Korean restaurant, Italian, Greek and we even have a Newfie cafe! What a country!
Here's a toast to the greatest country in the world. Oh Canada!
Cheers from Donna
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Curling season is here
Jim is a fanatic about TV at this time of year. The days and evenings revolve around the curling schedule. He gets quite frustrated when he can't find a game to watch. What is the matter he mutters as he clicks the remote control searching for his passion. So, as other wives are golf widows, I have a curling couch potato in my home.
The neat thing is that his grandchildren also love the game. Jenna and Matthew are very avid curlers. I think Alyssa is developing a love for the game too. Both Dusty and Mandy can curl. It is a real prairie cult.
I spent a few hours this past week driving a friend to her doctor and also to the hospital for an Xray. I lent her my cane so she can hobble around. This has reminded me of the months I spent recuperating after surgery for my fractured leg. I needed the help of my family and friends for several months. I am so thankful that I am now ambulatory. Tomorrow, I will be the one helping her as we wonkily make our way to our seats for the symphony.
I have been busily printing pictures of our trip to PEI. I am so thankful for the digital camera which means one can take oodles of shots and only print the few that are special.
Ok - the curling is over so Jim has turned off the idiot box and is now looking for something to do.
It is time for me to crawl into bed and read. I have just begun a book called An Irish Country Doctor byPatrick Taylor. It reminds me of the wonderful Irish doctor who was my physician while we lived in Elkhorn. I do miss the personal attention our country docs gave so selflessly and so graciously, that is is if one were really ill.
Here is a toast to the family GP's of small town Canada.
Cheers from Donna
The neat thing is that his grandchildren also love the game. Jenna and Matthew are very avid curlers. I think Alyssa is developing a love for the game too. Both Dusty and Mandy can curl. It is a real prairie cult.
I spent a few hours this past week driving a friend to her doctor and also to the hospital for an Xray. I lent her my cane so she can hobble around. This has reminded me of the months I spent recuperating after surgery for my fractured leg. I needed the help of my family and friends for several months. I am so thankful that I am now ambulatory. Tomorrow, I will be the one helping her as we wonkily make our way to our seats for the symphony.
I have been busily printing pictures of our trip to PEI. I am so thankful for the digital camera which means one can take oodles of shots and only print the few that are special.
Ok - the curling is over so Jim has turned off the idiot box and is now looking for something to do.
It is time for me to crawl into bed and read. I have just begun a book called An Irish Country Doctor byPatrick Taylor. It reminds me of the wonderful Irish doctor who was my physician while we lived in Elkhorn. I do miss the personal attention our country docs gave so selflessly and so graciously, that is is if one were really ill.
Here is a toast to the family GP's of small town Canada.
Cheers from Donna
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
It's a Cold January Evening
It is a cold night. I have been too chicken to step outside other than to reach around the door to pluck my mail and daily paper out of the box. Jim hasn't even gone out to play today! We each enjoyed a cup of hot chocolate, Jim's was laced with Kahlua.
I have been on a steep learning curve trying to figure out the blog thing.I am puzzling about how to add pictures. I will succeed, I will, I will! No darned machine is going to defeat me, I whimper.My first effort ended up with the picture landing in the last blog I wrote. It is one of Kylie and Jim at the hockey arena in Charlottetown. I love the expressions on their faces. Now, it is where I wanted it. Go figure.
I am not sure if I feel blessed or lazy! The girls arranged for a cleaning lady! She has come several times and has done some really deep cleaning. Since my accident I don't have the agility for knee bends that deep cleaning entails. Our lovely helper is named Leysia. She is a quiet hard working woman who has a dignity that demands respect. I think we are very lucky to have her in our lives. Thank you daughters for recognizing our needs and giving us a such a generous gift. This one will really keep on giving.
Cheers from Donna
I have been on a steep learning curve trying to figure out the blog thing.I am puzzling about how to add pictures. I will succeed, I will, I will! No darned machine is going to defeat me, I whimper.My first effort ended up with the picture landing in the last blog I wrote. It is one of Kylie and Jim at the hockey arena in Charlottetown. I love the expressions on their faces. Now, it is where I wanted it. Go figure.
I am not sure if I feel blessed or lazy! The girls arranged for a cleaning lady! She has come several times and has done some really deep cleaning. Since my accident I don't have the agility for knee bends that deep cleaning entails. Our lovely helper is named Leysia. She is a quiet hard working woman who has a dignity that demands respect. I think we are very lucky to have her in our lives. Thank you daughters for recognizing our needs and giving us a such a generous gift. This one will really keep on giving.
Cheers from Donna
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Baby, it is cold outside!
When I opened the drapes this morning, it was to a winter wonderland, but a darned frigid one! There must have been about a foot of fresh snow on the driveway. The pristine white blanket that lay smooth with no tracks marring the surface was very beautiful. I am afraid, though, that my mind just said Brrr! I chose to stay inside and enjoy the scenery from the warmth of my home.
It was a quiet day; one I needed to recharge my battery. I read a little, watched some tv and played on the computer. This evening the neighbours came over for a card game. All in all, it was a nothing day, but a very enjoyable one.
Jim played out in the snow for a while with his snow blower. He is making noises about buying a new machine. I see this purchase on the near horizon. He deserves one as he spends many hours plowing out our driveway as well as those of several neighbours.
My daughter-in-law called about noon to report in. Dave had meetings in Moncton yesterday so the family went on an excursion and got snowed in overnight. They made it home today in time for Dave to head out to work. The snow in the Maritimes is very heavy and wet. It makes wonderful snowmen.
This evening I spoke to Laurie and to Lisa. The communication system has come a long was since I was a girl. We had a "party line". This meant that several families used the same grid. Our call was one long and two short. I remember that my uncle's was two long two short. If there was a community emergency the operator would give a signal of many rings. Everyone would rush to the phone to find out what the problem was. There were no secrets as many of the customers would "rubber' which meant they would listen in to conversations to find out what was happening My mother had this habit finessed. She would grab a cup of coffee and settle down for a good listen. As we had no TV it was a great pasttime, especially in the winter when we were snowed in. Today, we email, skype or call on the phone whenever we wish. My grandmother once said she was born a hundred years too soon. I think she would really have enjoyed living in todays' techy world.
I am off to read with my e reader. Good night all.
Cheers from Donna
It was a quiet day; one I needed to recharge my battery. I read a little, watched some tv and played on the computer. This evening the neighbours came over for a card game. All in all, it was a nothing day, but a very enjoyable one.
Jim played out in the snow for a while with his snow blower. He is making noises about buying a new machine. I see this purchase on the near horizon. He deserves one as he spends many hours plowing out our driveway as well as those of several neighbours.
My daughter-in-law called about noon to report in. Dave had meetings in Moncton yesterday so the family went on an excursion and got snowed in overnight. They made it home today in time for Dave to head out to work. The snow in the Maritimes is very heavy and wet. It makes wonderful snowmen.
This evening I spoke to Laurie and to Lisa. The communication system has come a long was since I was a girl. We had a "party line". This meant that several families used the same grid. Our call was one long and two short. I remember that my uncle's was two long two short. If there was a community emergency the operator would give a signal of many rings. Everyone would rush to the phone to find out what the problem was. There were no secrets as many of the customers would "rubber' which meant they would listen in to conversations to find out what was happening My mother had this habit finessed. She would grab a cup of coffee and settle down for a good listen. As we had no TV it was a great pasttime, especially in the winter when we were snowed in. Today, we email, skype or call on the phone whenever we wish. My grandmother once said she was born a hundred years too soon. I think she would really have enjoyed living in todays' techy world.
I am off to read with my e reader. Good night all.
Cheers from Donna
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Jet lag is finally over, I hope!
I haven't dropped in for several days now. I guess I needed to rest after our trek across five provinces on the 6th. We flew from Charlottetown to Halifax; then from Halifax to Montreal and finally from there to Winnipeg. Of course, each stop required a different plane. I have finally swallowed my pride and now get wheel chair assistance at each airport. This makes travelling much simpler for us in our old age.
We were pleasantly surprised when we reached Halifax. It is an international hub and is so much larger than we expected. The building has lots of windows,is very bright and cheery. There are lots of shops along the discourse. We spent a pleasant hour there. When we reached Montreal we were given an upgrade on our boarding pass. It was a treat to sit on the Executive section - in front of the curtain rather than behind it! We were given very courteous and kind service by the attendant. The meal was delicious. Hmmm. It makes one wonder if we should cough up the extra money to use this service every time. I guess not, but it was a good thought.
Jenna is staying with us for a couple of days. It is so much fun to have her here. She spoke at the geological conference in Brandon and had, I think a great time. She will fly home on Tuesday.
Tomorrow Rick flies to BC and so Viv and Matt will come for dinner . It will be a fun time; I just wish all my kids could be here.
I love the pictures of Laurie and Rod's new home. I guess it is time to start saving my pennies for my westward excursion. I'll be buying another suitcase though, as Air Canada surely wrecked the one I was using.
I wonder if we will have a big snowstorm tomorrow? The odds are fifty - fifty!
We have quite a snow bank already.
Good night from Manitoba!
Cheers from Donna
We were pleasantly surprised when we reached Halifax. It is an international hub and is so much larger than we expected. The building has lots of windows,is very bright and cheery. There are lots of shops along the discourse. We spent a pleasant hour there. When we reached Montreal we were given an upgrade on our boarding pass. It was a treat to sit on the Executive section - in front of the curtain rather than behind it! We were given very courteous and kind service by the attendant. The meal was delicious. Hmmm. It makes one wonder if we should cough up the extra money to use this service every time. I guess not, but it was a good thought.
Jenna is staying with us for a couple of days. It is so much fun to have her here. She spoke at the geological conference in Brandon and had, I think a great time. She will fly home on Tuesday.
Tomorrow Rick flies to BC and so Viv and Matt will come for dinner . It will be a fun time; I just wish all my kids could be here.
I love the pictures of Laurie and Rod's new home. I guess it is time to start saving my pennies for my westward excursion. I'll be buying another suitcase though, as Air Canada surely wrecked the one I was using.
I wonder if we will have a big snowstorm tomorrow? The odds are fifty - fifty!
We have quite a snow bank already.
Good night from Manitoba!
Cheers from Donna
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Goodbye PEI
It is with mixed feelings that I am packing tonight. I am sorry to leave my family and the wonderful province of PEI. On the other hand I am looking forward to returning to my home; reading the cards and messages that are waiting there and sleeping in my own bed. The icing on the cake will be seeing our Jenna. She is in Brandon for a few days as she is giving a presentation to the geology students at BU.
I have already been on the West Jet site looking at air fare for Comox, BC. I can hardly wait to see Laurie and Rod's home of which they have taken possession today. Hmmm. I could very easily become a frequent flyer!
We went to the Andrews Centre this evening to watch Jake do his hockey drills and scrimmage. It is so cute seeing the little fellows trying so hard to be Sidney Crosby. I think Jake spent more time on his butt and his tummy that he did skating tonight. He is a determined little fighter.
Ann came over from New Brunswick for a visit. She is the image of her mother! We enjoyed catching up on the news of her family. I must say she has joined the elite grandmother club. It gives us bragging rights that parents
don't have. Perhaps the next time we are here we can visit Ann and Dan in Sackville.
My packing is done and I am now going to relax and watch the Canada/Russia Jr. World Hockey final. So far, Canada has a three to nothing lead!
Go Canada, Go!
Cheers from Donna
I have already been on the West Jet site looking at air fare for Comox, BC. I can hardly wait to see Laurie and Rod's home of which they have taken possession today. Hmmm. I could very easily become a frequent flyer!
We went to the Andrews Centre this evening to watch Jake do his hockey drills and scrimmage. It is so cute seeing the little fellows trying so hard to be Sidney Crosby. I think Jake spent more time on his butt and his tummy that he did skating tonight. He is a determined little fighter.
Ann came over from New Brunswick for a visit. She is the image of her mother! We enjoyed catching up on the news of her family. I must say she has joined the elite grandmother club. It gives us bragging rights that parents
don't have. Perhaps the next time we are here we can visit Ann and Dan in Sackville.
My packing is done and I am now going to relax and watch the Canada/Russia Jr. World Hockey final. So far, Canada has a three to nothing lead!
Go Canada, Go!
Cheers from Donna
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
The Culinary School
Colleen took us to The Culinary Institute in downtown Charlottetown for lunch today. It was fabulous. The students make gourmet meals that they serve to the College students and to the public. Mmmmm.
Jim and I had the Atlantic salmon. Colleen and her Mom had pork shishkabobs. I especially enjoyed the view. The dining room faces the boardwalk that runs along the shore. We watched the seagulls diving over the stormy waters that dashed against the snow covered banks. There was a grey mist hovering over the water that lent an ethereal feeling to the scene. There is something mesmerising about seascapes for me that seems to calm my soul.
Jake had his Grammy read his bedtime story as she leaves tomorrow for Calgary. Kylie snuggled close to Grandpa as she did her `homework`which was reading our loud.
I was thinking about our families who came across the pond in the 1800`s and early 1900s. They had no instant means of communication that we enjoy today. I am so thankful that even though I now have family living on both the Atlantic and Pacific shores, I can reach them very quickly. That is my thankful thought for the day.
Cheers from Donna
Jim and I had the Atlantic salmon. Colleen and her Mom had pork shishkabobs. I especially enjoyed the view. The dining room faces the boardwalk that runs along the shore. We watched the seagulls diving over the stormy waters that dashed against the snow covered banks. There was a grey mist hovering over the water that lent an ethereal feeling to the scene. There is something mesmerising about seascapes for me that seems to calm my soul.
Jake had his Grammy read his bedtime story as she leaves tomorrow for Calgary. Kylie snuggled close to Grandpa as she did her `homework`which was reading our loud.
I was thinking about our families who came across the pond in the 1800`s and early 1900s. They had no instant means of communication that we enjoy today. I am so thankful that even though I now have family living on both the Atlantic and Pacific shores, I can reach them very quickly. That is my thankful thought for the day.
Cheers from Donna
Monday, January 3, 2011
Another Sad Moment before the Sun Shines
I got more sad news today. I had called my neigbours who are helping look after my house. During the chat, I asked what was happening in Brandon. She mentioned that a 36 year old fellow named Ashley Haslett had died. She knew his father. Oh my gosh! I worked with Ash years ago when he and I were assistants to Jim McCrae. Ash was a fine young man who was very intelligent and had a super personality. The world is a little dimmer now since his flame was snuffed out. Peace be with you, Ashley.
Yesterday, we gals and Jake went to Stanhope Beach for an invigorating walk. The waves were crashing onto the shore. The red soil tinted spume was churning and left globs of suds on the sand.
There were traces of snow on the grassy dunes, and lots of flotsam lying along the shore line. Jake, a typical boy was fascinated by the gory parts of the dead seal that was lying in amongst the jetsam. Kylie made history as she didn`t cry over the body. We found lots of flotsam and the beach bums collected a bit of sea glass other wise known as mermaid tears.
When I woke up this morning , it was to a Thomas Kincade painting. The snow was gently falling in huge flakes and the landscape was breathtaking. I took a few pictures but probably didn`t do justice to the scene. The kids had a blast later as they made a snowman. Jake demolished the thing before I could get a shot of it though.
It will be back to a routine tomorrow as the children head back to school. They leave here abour 7:45 and get home about 2:35. They will have lots of things to tell us after seeing their friends again.
It is time to go cheer for Canada in the last period of the Jr. Hockey game against the USA. Go, Canada, Go!
Cheers from Donna
Yesterday, we gals and Jake went to Stanhope Beach for an invigorating walk. The waves were crashing onto the shore. The red soil tinted spume was churning and left globs of suds on the sand.
There were traces of snow on the grassy dunes, and lots of flotsam lying along the shore line. Jake, a typical boy was fascinated by the gory parts of the dead seal that was lying in amongst the jetsam. Kylie made history as she didn`t cry over the body. We found lots of flotsam and the beach bums collected a bit of sea glass other wise known as mermaid tears.
When I woke up this morning , it was to a Thomas Kincade painting. The snow was gently falling in huge flakes and the landscape was breathtaking. I took a few pictures but probably didn`t do justice to the scene. The kids had a blast later as they made a snowman. Jake demolished the thing before I could get a shot of it though.
It will be back to a routine tomorrow as the children head back to school. They leave here abour 7:45 and get home about 2:35. They will have lots of things to tell us after seeing their friends again.
It is time to go cheer for Canada in the last period of the Jr. Hockey game against the USA. Go, Canada, Go!
Cheers from Donna
Sunday, January 2, 2011
A Sad Happening
Last week I read on my home page that a farmer pilot from the Boissevain area was killed in a crash.
I couldn't rest until I learned who the victim was. Every day, I searched for news. Yesterday, I finally called a friend who gave me the information. I was so dismayed to learn that it was Art Peters. Art was a son of our very wonderful Boissevain neighbours Nick and Katie.
I called Katie last evening. It was a heartbreaking conversation but one I am so glad to have made. I will never forget the sorrow and pain she expressed. Jim and I send our deepest sympathy to the family of a very fine man.
No cheers today
Donna
I couldn't rest until I learned who the victim was. Every day, I searched for news. Yesterday, I finally called a friend who gave me the information. I was so dismayed to learn that it was Art Peters. Art was a son of our very wonderful Boissevain neighbours Nick and Katie.
I called Katie last evening. It was a heartbreaking conversation but one I am so glad to have made. I will never forget the sorrow and pain she expressed. Jim and I send our deepest sympathy to the family of a very fine man.
No cheers today
Donna
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Bring on 2011
We had a glorious start to 2011 today. The sun shone and the temperature was very balmy. If this was winter on the Prairies I would like winter!
It was a lazy day for my son and for me. Dave is in the throws of flu/cold virus that I am still fighting. We spent most of the day resting. I hope we are both back to normal tomorrow.
We did go to a new Chinese Buffet restaurant for dinner though. It had a great variety of main course choices and of sweet desserts.
As I write this, the hockey fans are watching an NHL game. Tomorrow morning Jake has hockey pracice. I hope he can score a goal for his cheering section.
I have not made a resolution for 2011. I never keep them up longer than a week anyway, so why add stress?
My aspiration for this year is simply to enjoy the day and to appreciate the small things.
I hope each of you has a wonderful year.
Cheers from Donna
It was a lazy day for my son and for me. Dave is in the throws of flu/cold virus that I am still fighting. We spent most of the day resting. I hope we are both back to normal tomorrow.
We did go to a new Chinese Buffet restaurant for dinner though. It had a great variety of main course choices and of sweet desserts.
As I write this, the hockey fans are watching an NHL game. Tomorrow morning Jake has hockey pracice. I hope he can score a goal for his cheering section.
I have not made a resolution for 2011. I never keep them up longer than a week anyway, so why add stress?
My aspiration for this year is simply to enjoy the day and to appreciate the small things.
I hope each of you has a wonderful year.
Cheers from Donna
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