Christmas - a recount

Like a flash, Christmas was here and gone. I'm a touch saddened ... it felt like we didn't have enough time for it to be Christmas. I'll try to recount our holiday...

Like last year, Mum & my brother went to Ontario to have Christmas with my older siblings. It's the 2nd year in a row that I've been 'orphaned', but Rosie eagerly welcomed me into their home for the festivities, so I was nowhere near 'alone' for any of it. On Christmas Eve, we went to the W homestead for supper. Every year, Rosie makes up a delicious pot of homemade seafood chowder, which is quickly becoming another symbol of Christmas for me. We sat around with a few drinks after supper. Chris brought the Wii over, and everyone, except for me, played for hours. With all the damp weather I was aching in every joint so I opted to stay seated in the lazyboy. Sadly, the W's lost track of time with the Wii play, and by the time they retired the wiimotes for the night, it was too late to head over to the Bowlan's Christmas Eve bash. We're so sorry to have missed it, Bowlans. We'll definitely convene for some post-holiday cheer very soon!

Christmas Day we slept in as late as our curious minds would allow, leaving the bed by about 9:30 or so. We didn't go too overboard on each other this year, but still managed to have a few little surprises under the tree for each other. My favourite store, Reitmans, was very popular this year, with 2 shirts, 2 necklaces, a scarf and several gift cards among my favourite prezzies. I can't freaking wait to go shopping!! 2 cozy pairs of jammies, soft slippers, the new Bon Jovi disc, a big bottle of Baileys, oodles of chocolate, sweet ornaments and the latest Grey's DVD set are also all snuggled under the tree for me. Probably my most favourite of all my presents this year is my oversized cozy throw from Chris. It's like a Snuggie on crack! It's huge and soft and so so so comfortable. Thank you to everyone for your generosity! xoxoxo

After clearing up the wrap and straightening up we then headed back to the W's for more Wii, a delicious turkey with all the trimmings, and a few movies. On Boxing Day, the W's came to us, allowing me to stay cozy in my jammies and my cozy throw (thanks W's!). Rosie brought us some leftovers for supper, and they stayed over for coffee and another movie (Chris has signed up for the free trial of Netflix. Let's just say they will be gaining anther customer next month). After our company left, we then remained snuggled and jammied, watching a bit more tv a la Netflix. We did get out for a drive that night to look at some of the Christmas lights we could find. Unfortunately, many homes were dark, possibly already packed up for another year. There wasn't any snow, either, so it didn't even feel right.

Yesterday, we had a full-on jammie day - neither one of us leaving our jammies, save a shower and donning new ones, and we watched an embarrassing amount of tv (again, thanks to Neflix!). I guess you could say we had a very relaxed holiday! Well... that was until 5am this morning when the power went out and the winds picked up for our first winter storm of the season. Thanks Mother Nature, but you're a little late with your 'gift'.

I hope all my faithful readers had a warm, relaxing holiday, filled with too much good food, and oodles of happy.

a humbling dose of reality

Every now and then life likes to smack you over the head with a bit of a reality check. While all of us are bitching and moaning about getting our presents bought and wrapped, and cursing the long lineups and backed up traffic, someone is now mourning the loss of a mother, a daughter, wife, sister... An unfortunate tragedy took place yesterday. A young woman aged 39 years passed away very unexpectedly. She leaves behind a husband and two small children. 3 days before Christmas. What is supposed to be the happiest time of the year will now be marred by sadness and grief every single year for them. My heart goes out to this poor family, and I wish them peace and the comfort of their family and friends as they cope with this tragic loss.

I didn't know this woman, but her death leaves a somber reminder of my own mortality...and it points out the importance of living each day to its fullest, and without regrets. So what if the traffic is moving slow? So what if I don't have that perfect gift wrapped and ready under the tree? So what if the relentless winds kept me up the past few nights and I'm not feeling 100% because I'm so tired? I have my health. I have my family. I have my friends. I have my life.

Do me a favor...after reading this, go find someone you love one and give him or her a great big hug. Appreciate the great gifts that you have and during this holiday season never take for granted one single second that you have. Life is truly precious, and it could be taken away so suddenly that your whole world would shift...

*Yawn*

3 hours sleep does not a happy Amber make. Holy EFF I'm tired. The Atlantic region was pummeled with yet another windstorm over night. The gusts, in excess of 90-100kms, had the makings of a superb winter storm and a potential snow day today, but the temps? 3 degrees Celsius. So, it's just a shitty hair day and a long day after having less than adequate beauty rest. I remember Mike & Molly ending on tv, and quickly fell asleep after the tv was turned off. Mother Nature, with her incessant howls, didn't figure I needed much though, and when she started exercising her 'voice', it was just after 2am, and I've been reluctantly wide awake ever since.

I predict copious quantities of caffeine today. And chocolate. I've already consumed two coffees and two ginormous and to-die-for peanut butter balls. Peanut butter balls = Christmas to me. Tonight, I'm meeting up with my BFF's for the annual Girls Night Gift Exchange at Julie's. There will be eats; there will be laughs, and we get to leave with a gift. You can't get any better than that, can you? It's my light at the end of a very dark, and very long tunnel today.

Oh, and btw...my replacement card came in the mail yesterday!!!!!!!!!!!! VICTORY! Citizensbank officially falls into my list of superior customer service experiences. KUDOS, Citizensbank. Thank you for allowing Christmas to come to the 'hood for me!

Serenity??

Day 1 back to work after staycation
+ a full moon
+ issues with a Christmas gift delay requiring the purchase of a whole different gift entirely
+ having to listen to Celine Dion Christmas carols
= a less than "happy place" for yours truly.

*whimper*

Point form

• the decoration boxes are hidden away
• the floors are scrubbed and the mat & couches vaccuumed
• the bathroom is clean
• most of the laundry is done
• the bank account is waaaaay into overdraft
• the wrapping is complete
• the tree is trimmed to perfection
• the tree now has a star
• the presents are under the tree.

By God, I think I might be ready. Now, if only it would snow.

dear passage of time: please SLOW down.

Wow this week passed me by in a flash. I have the wrapping pretty much done - aside from the few gifts that have yet to be purchased. Yes, there are gifts left unpurchased - I'm not proud. I vowed I'd not leave it this late. The worst part? Next payday is Christmas Eve. Helllloooo Visa ;). After wrapping up the odds and ends that I picked up for Chris and sticking them under the tree, I'm feeling a little chintzy. We did say that we really weren't going 'big' for each other this year...but I might have to brave the crowds once more. Pray for me. On second thought, isn't chintzy the new "smart & responsible"? Am I reaching?

The house has yet to be cleaned and dusted. I guess this weekend will not be one of relaxation and looking proudly over the work I've accomplished. Damnit. Tomorrow morning I have an appointment to get my winter tires put on (perhaps THAT will bring on the damn snow??), and today I have a lunch date with one of my BFF's and my new boyfriend. He's fairly quiet and is scrumptiously CUTE!! After my visit with Tanya and Ryder I'm heading onward to Mummy's for our final "Mummy & Me" night for the year. She's leaving me again for Christmas *sniff* to spend the holidays with Fred, Belinda and Cathy and her family. I'm a little bummed about it, but again, it will be an easier holiday with less running around. I hope she stays her butt home next year, though. Hey Fred & Belinda - Cathy, even....come to PEI next year, would ya?

Okay, okay, once more it's time to sit down, shut up, and relax -- and try to look beyond the hustle & bustle and the stress of the preparations to think about the true meaning of Christmas, and the love of family and friends. If one has this abundance of love, they have the best Christmas present in the world.

can andy say that?

I never miss Ellen. I think she is completely and utterly fabulous. Her kindness and generosity know no boundaries, and she's constantly helping a variety of different causes and people in need. She's a genuine 'feel good' person, and you can't help but smile at her antics. Watch the following excerpt from today's show where she pokes a little harmless fun at Andy, her executive producer:



This totally made my day today. Thanks Ellen!!!

...checking it twice...

Ooh-kay! Well, I did make it to the post office yesterday, so now the cards are off to meet their intendeds. Based on the flow of incoming cards, everyone else is in the same boat as me; that, or I just won't be getting many this year :P. I did a quick stop at English Butler to finish a few gifts, and we did get out last night to pick up a few groceries (though without a list in hand, so I can rhyme off at least 5 things we forgot). I didn't start my wrapping yet, and the house is still a mess. I have two gifts left to buy - but I know what I'm getting so it shouldn't be too stressful, unless you mention my account balance. Jeeeebus that went fast. And I don't get another pay cheque til Christmas Eve. So yeah, I'm just about done. My bank decided that one for me.

My goal is to get the house cleaned and the wrapping completed today - in time to stop over at my momma's for Mummy & Me day. I fear I may have to postpone that. It's almost 8 o'clock and I'm still wiping sleep crusties out of my eyes. So, with that, off to brew a cup of java and dig around for the scotch tape. Oh, and I'm also going to do a snow dance. This rain and damp weather has turned me into an aching, arthritic mess. Besides that, how can anyone get into any Christmas spirit without a nice blanket of snow? I can't even visit the Rustico lights without snow on the ground. Do join me, will y'all?

Happy Hump (oh sweet baby Jesus it's Wednesday already).

Making a list...

It's 7am and I've already had my first cup of coffee & the second load of laundry is running its cycle. I guess with the super high winds (including wind warnings) and heavy rainfall (yes, rainfall, in mid-December. We actually had a warmer day yesterday than FLORIDA) I'm lucky to have power. Truth be told, the only reason I'm up this early is because I neglected Mt. Laundry all weekend, and as I rubbed the sleep out of my eyes from my morning pee, totally prepared to dive back under the covers for at least another 4 hours, Chris gave me the puppy dog eyes lamenting about being out of underwear. I offered up a pair of mine, but he wasn't interested. I am off this week, so he's lucky I didn't tell him to just wear a dirty pair inside out. With my ever-growing 'to do' list hanging over my head, though, I started my day with less complaint than you'd imagine.

It's 10 days til Christmas Eve. 10 days. Eff word!

Weather like this more makes me wanna curl up with a good book than to prepare for Christmas. I have so much to do...including even mailing my cards. The cards which I tore through and completed in a frantic dash. The same cards that have been sitting, completed, yet un-stamped, for a frickin' week! I suck. The tree is up, yet the boxes that contained the decorations are still piled up in the hallway. And, the treetop is still bare. The laundry may be in the works, but the house looks like a complete sty. The cupboards are bare. The majority of the shopping is done, but the wrapping hasn't been started.

Suddenly I'm feeling slightly overwhelmed and have run out of things to say. Fittingly enough, the dryer just shut off, and finally, the sky is brightening up slightly so at least I don't feel like I'm up in the middle of the night. Lots to do...time to get doin'... Happy Tuesday!

Santa Paws

To help you all get into the Christmas spirit:



The other night as I was halfway between sleep and consciousness I heard a small rustling, something drop, and then roll to the floor. I left the bed, walked into the living room, and saw Zoe rolling one of my ornaments on the floor, like a ball. Fortunately it was a plastic ornament so no damage was done (after 4 years with cats at Christmas time you learn (the hard way) to ensure the un-breakables are secured on the bottom branches). From time to time, though our tree mostly remains looking untouched, we come home to find a rather large gaping hole in the branches where one of them have tried to (well, likely succeeded) perch inside the tree. Good thing they're cute.

Making a new tradition

The traditional Christmas tree can be topped with a star, or an angel. I've always preferred an angel - seems so much more special to me. Our tree at home as I was growing up always had an angel, too, so it might be that the nostalgia alone is what I hold onto.

The other day I was catching up on my friends' Facebook status updates (jebus almighty, what did we do before Facebook??), and I came across one including the following quote: "I don't need an Angel on top of my Christmas tree, I have one in Heaven watching over me"*. Ironically, I had just finished trimming our Christmas tree the night before. It was all done except the treetop was bare, because my angel was still packed away in another Christmas box that I'd not yet gotten to. The words hit home, and for a moment, I thought to myself, "Hmmm....so true; perhaps, this year, to honour our own Angels in Heaven, I'll leave the treetop bare". That same friend commented that this year, she instead put a star atop her tree, to remind her that she's had a good year, and to to signify that she and her family and friends are all stars in their own right, and they should shine brightly, like those shine above us, in Heaven.

She's right.

I am going to buy us a star for our tree. And the star will now have a brand new meaning for me - to symbolize our own very special shining stars who can't be with us in person this Christmas, but who will always be with us in spirit, shining down on us from Heaven, twinkling, and shining brightly, always.

*Thanks, Shemla, for your words of inspiration, and wisdom. :)

Happy Thursday

When I woke up early this morning to start my day I happily turned the alarm to the "off" position from "on", meaning it wouldn't be set to scream at me again tomorrow morning. Until 30 seconds later, when it registered as I rubbed the sleep out of my eyes, that it was Thursday, and not Friday.

I hate that.

BUT! It is Thursday -- I have one more wake up ahead, and then that alarm clock goes off for an entire week! ;). Yessiree, folks, a week. I am on staycation next week. Glorious staycation. Christmas in the 'hood will be DONE by week's end. And I have sooooooooooo much to do in that short week. But, it WILL be done, as the Internet is my witness!

Plus, it's Turkey Thursday. My work is putting on a lavish turkey dinner for our Christmas gift. It's being catered by the Olde Triangle. I've worn my eating pants in preparation, and I can't freaking wait.

Happy Thursday!

All's well that ends well

Every now and then, life teaches you a lesson. A hard lesson that ends up being a kick in the junk - so much so that you wanna kick yourself in your own junk because you feel so stupid. I had one of those little lessons this past weekend.

Some back story: I'm a hoarder. Ok, well that might be harsh. You don't have to walk on top of boxes to move between rooms in my house. My sinks are not full of garbage, nor is my bathtub. So I'm not a true "hoarder" in the sense that is in TLC's eyes, but I do tend to hold onto things, ie, gift cards, 2-for-1 coupons, etc, for 'tough times'. Have coupons and cards expired before I had to use them? Oh yes. It's a piss off, but, it's my own fault, and I take full responsibility. I oughta be more diligent with that sorta thing, I know. Most of what I lost was in the low denomination value, but let's face it, in this day and age, even the loss of $10 is worth mourning. I can't tell you how happy I was when I heard that there was now an official ruling by the government that cards purchased after Sept 2010 would no longer incur an expiration. I mean, it makes sense....a gift card was paid for in cash. Cash is cash. Cash doesn't expire, so why did gift cards ever have an expiry before? You all know the answer to that. It's because in this world, there's a whoolllllle lotta dumb people like me who fail to use them, therefore the company reaps the benefit of making money for nothing.

Ok, segway back to my story.

I received a rather substantial Visa gift card through an incentive program at my work. I had a plan to use this card for Christmas shopping so I tucked it away safely in my craft room until it was time to make a purchase. Sunday, in between toiling away making the Christmas cards, I just happened to open the packaging that contained said Visa card. I literally almost vomited right then and there. I saw spots and I felt faint. The date was December 5, 2010 when I peeled the packaging away. To my horror, the expiry date on my substantial Visa gift card had run its course...ending November 2010.

I immediately called the 800# on the back of the card. I explained my plight. I admitted my own stupidity and my own responsibility. I prayed for a miracle. I begged for a grace period. Surely to GAWD with only 5 days past expiry they could do something for me - even if it was to take a loss on the dollar amount. But no. Point blank, the card expired, therefore I was S.O.L. I asked to speak to a supervisor. I reached another unsympathetic ear. I was devastated. I felt like I had been robbed. I have never, ever felt so stupid in my life. And, I felt very sorry for myself. And, I'll admit, there were a few tears, but I'll blame PMS on that.

I went to a contact at work the next day, hoping something could possibly be done by the company. My contact went to her contact...unfortunately, I met yet another dead end. A co-worker insisted I keep up the fight. She googled gift card Visas and expiry...and lo and behold, on the Visa.ca website, under their FAQ section, it's cited that if a Visa gift card expires with a balance, there is an option to replace it for a fee. I felt a renewed sense of fight build inside of me. I sent a message via the reward company's website. After I got off work, I called them back again, this time citing the information I found, and requesting to order a replacement card. Once again, I was met with an unsympathetic ear, and another round of, "I'm sorry, but there's nothing we can do for you". My rage continued. I suggested that the website I found with the FAQ be looked at. Apparently she didn't have internet access.

Suddenly, it hit me...this was the reward company who issued the card for my workplace. The card itself was a Citizens Bank gift Visa....perhaps I should be dealing with them? So a phone call and 3 transfers later, I was met with a very friendly, sympathetic, ear, and I currently have an order out for a replacement card for my substantial expired Visa gift card, for a small fee of $20. It was like Christmas came early for me.

Persistence pays. When it comes to money lost --- fight for it. I still won't believe this chapter in self-idiocy has ended until I see the replacement card in my mailbox, but I do have a small sense of victory. And you can be sure I'm going to pay careful attention to expiry dates from now on.

don't let this happen in your home

I should know better than to load up the shopping cart with fresh produce. It always spoils before I can finish it, and I don't even want to think about the amount of food and money I waste by having such big plans to eat healthfully only to see it turn into a science experiment before it hits the compost bin. Last night, after the girls night for Erin's BD I stopped in at Sobeys to grab a few necessities. Not unlike any other time, I had to grab a few expired items from the fridge before filling it back up with the new stuff.

I ought to clear it out more frequently.

The diced up tomato and pickle for the last time we ate schawarma were funky, but, since they were in some rather expensive pyrex glass containers, I had to clean them out. That was stink#1.

I noticed the subject of stink#2 on the bottom shelf, right above the crisper. It had been sitting there for awhile, and I knew full well that there was no hope that it was fresh so I knew it was next to be turfed. I grabbed it....only to see it disintegrate before my very eyes and heard the distinct *ker--ffflllifffff--PLOP* noise it made as it separated from itself and smeared all over the bottom of the fridge and onto the kitchen floor. It had the consistency of what I can only describe as a condom filled with hand cream. Not that I have ever felt a condom filled with hand cream. I just have a good imagination. It smelled of rot. It was the most disgusting 'surprise' I'd had since the 'chocolate milk incident'. I screamed. I cursed. I shuddered - to the point that Chris came to the room to see what the fuss was all about. He took one look at the mess upon the floor before doing his own squirming and possibly gagging before leaving the room again.

The smushy, mushy surprise was a cucumber.

After getting over the initial shock of the dead cucumber and cleaning up said mushy mess, I then moved on to the culprit of stink#3, a soured container of buttermilk.

Perhaps we oughta just give up on the whole grocery shopping/cooking/storing thing, and just sign up for Meals on Wheels? Surely we'd save money? What with accounting for the money not spent on food that would spoil, and the lower electric bill with not having to run the fridge?

I am good housekeeper. I swear.

this post brought to you courtesy of Lou Bega

I've been a little neglectful lately. The weekend passed me by in a blur. There was a ton of things I should have done that went undone. I'm working the late shift this week, so even though I have huge ideas, plans and expectations that I will fill my morning hours preparing for Christmas with finishing my cards; finishing the decorating of the tree; starting to wrap; heck, even doing a load of laundry or two, in actuality, the pull of the warm bed sucks me in every time. This morning, just as I had flipped my pillow over to the cool side to snuggle in for that final hour before I had to get up, Mambo#5 started on the radio, and I immediately jumped out of bed. I figured it was a sign from a higher power. Words cannot express how much I deeply loathe that song. Unfortunately, the Christmas preparations went untouched, but I was able to clean up the kitchen and make the living quarters a tad bit more liveable.

Tonight, I'm meeting up with the girlies after work at P&W to celebrate Erin's birthday (birthday post dedicated to her on the way!), and tomorrow morning I have to leave the house early for an appointment before work, so you can guess that I will continue to leave the Christmas preps untouched for yet another day. The weekends before Christmas seem to be filling up with invitations and goings-on... before I know it, the day will have come and gone. The overwhelming sense of panic is starting to set in. It's time to breathe. It's time again to focus on the real meaning of Christmas...that, and perhaps playing Lou Bega on repeat every early morning til the day before?

TGIF!

Man it's going to feel good being able to sleep in tomorrow.

sh!t my mom says...

Sometimes, I just about consider writing a book or creating a site entitled "Sh!t My Mom Says", akin to the uproariously funny and viral, Sh!t My Dad Says (which I absolutely adore btw. And, for the record, the site only. The show? Big fail if you ask me). However, my gal Ellen already thought of it for her show, and I don't want her thinking I'm stealing her idea or anything ;). Aaaanyway, so I guess I'll have to just add a story or two to the blog whenever the moment arises.

And it rose last night.

Chris & I, and Mom & Todd were out at a local pub for supper, celebrating Todd's birthday. A week or so ago, Todd had a bout of some stubborn cold sores, preventing him from shaving his chin for a few days until they healed up. Mom was admiring Chris' fabulous handlebar moustache he's been sporting for Movember, and I guess that's what made her remember Todd's health issues. So, in the voice that is my momma's (ie, not overly soft, delicate or quiet), she says outloud, "Did you tell them about your herpes?".

Well, yes, technically, a cold sore is a form of that particular ailment, but it's not normally called anything other than a cold sore. Especially in public. At a restaurant. Where other patrons were in earshot. And bar staff.

As we were getting our coats on to leave, after a pleasant and quite delicious meal, Mother made a comment about how cute the waitress had been (she was a complete doll). Todd muffled under his breath in the dry tone that he's known for, "Yeah, too bad she thinks I have herpes".

one mo' time!

In case there were any that missed the shoot last weekend, you have another opportunity to support a fantastic cause, and have a lot of fun! This Sunday, November 28, between the hours of 3pm and 9pm drop by 105 Queen, Suite 5 (just upstairs from Jems Boutique (where Just Us Girls used to be)) for another opportunity to show your support for the fundraising effort for prostate cancer research. Your generosity will be rewarded with a fun time, and a great keepsake. You can choose to have a print of a formal "portrait" session, or print off a few pics of yourself sporting one of our fancy fake moustaches. The possibilities are endless :)

Happy Birthday Todd!

Today is my 'baby' brother's birthday. Age is just a number, right? And seeing as I'm the older of us, I don't feel like mentioning the age itself. However, if you look carefully at this vintage pic of the two of us -- our outfits, the high chair motif, the kitchen table & chairs, those curtains, you'll know it was taken circa forever ago.

Well Todd, we've had our share of moments. The fights between us were many, some of the words, harsh. However, there's always been a friendship underneath it all. You've been Mom's rock over the past few years, and Dad would be so proud of you. Thanks for all you've done for her, and for the family. Wishing you a fantastic birthday today, and I hope the year ahead of you has many happy moments, and special surprises for you. Love you much xoxoxox.

52 years ago

Today would have been 52 years for them, had Dad not passed on.

52 years ago today, a man married his best friend.
52 years ago today, a woman, hers.
School mates.
Soul mates.
Forever loved.
Forever missed.
Now an empty pillow lays where his head used to lay.
Today she pours one glass, not two -
As she thinks about her best friend,
And the day two became one.

Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad.

Movember -- it's in you to give

Cancer is everywhere. In some capacity, it effects everyone, directly, or indirectly. I hate cancer. I loathe it with every fiber of my being. I can only hope that someday there will be a cure for all the dreaded cancers out there. Sadly, in 2010 alone, more than 4400 men will die as a direct result of prostate cancer.

The Mo, slang for moustache, and November come together each year for Movember.

Movember challenges men to change their appearance and the face of men’s health by growing a moustache. The rules are simple, start Movember 1st clean-shaven and then grow a moustache for the entire month. The moustache becomes the ribbon for men’s health, the means by which awareness and funds are raised for prostate cancer. Much like the commitment to run or walk for charity, the men of Movember commit to growing a moustache for 30 days.

This year, Chris and our friend Matt decided to get involved for the cause. Not only have they set aside their razors, but they (along with the lovely Nicole) are putting themselves to work for the cause as well. Full Frame Media and Spin Photo are joining together tomorrow to donate their time and talent to put on a photo shoot, a mini portrait session, to donate to the cause. The Mo'Photo Shoot, hopefully the first year of many, will take place tomorrow.

How can you help? If you're in the area, drop on by to 102 Queen St, Suite 5 (above JEMS), between the hours of 11am and 5pm, and join in on the fun. For a $20 donation, you'll be able to take part in a photo shoot, and leave with an 8x10 sheet of photos. So, you get to decide if you want a full 8x10 pic of yourself and you're carefully groomed 'stache, or as many wallets that an 8x10 sheet can hold, to share with your friends. Don't have a 'stache? Don't worry! Fake ones will be on hand. Put one on a pet, a child, your wife, or daughter. Don't wanna wear a 'stache? Don't! Just smile prettily for the camera! All proceeds are going to the Movember Foundation.

If you're not local to the Island, and you still want to help, feel free to click on the following link to donate via PayPal or credit card: http://ca.movember.com/mospace/1019488/

I have to remember how proud I am of Chris for helping to come up with such a great idea for such a great cause...especially as that 'stache gets thicker and thicker. At least November is almost over ;). Hope to see you tomorrow!!

A sign

Tim Hortons have their Christmas cups out.

That can only mean one thing, I guess. It's now officially time to start the frantic, mad dash that is pre-Christmas. (I borrowed the side image from the Interwebs on account of my inability to post pics yet on account of my storage issues on my craptop. Thanks Interwebs.)

Last night, as the wind and rain pelted the living room window, I actually cut some paper to prepare for this year's new Christmas cards. I'm not sure why I actually started them this early (even though in previous years I'd started them even earlier), but I will blame Carolyn for the little push with her message requesting my address. Thanks, Carolyn!

And, I may be flogged for saying this, but...I was kinda wishing it was snow pelting outside rather than the pouring rain.

This weekend: project Christmas tree.

A party in Heaven

Today, on what would have been your 74th birthday, I send greetings Heavenward. There is not one day that passes, not one, that I don't think of you at some point or another. Today the ache is a little heavier. Today there are a few more tears that hide behind the smile in my eyes as I think about you. I hope that there's a party in Heaven today for you. A party where all the good people who left before and after you will gather, and celebrate the great man that is you. I know you'll be standing straight and proud. There will be no limp, no pain in your eyes. Perhaps you'll dance to a special tune to honor this special day. And I'll know you're dancing as I go outside, and feel the soft breeze pass by my face.

I love you so much Dad. I miss you more than words.

xoxoxoxoxoxo

There's something like a line of gold thread running through a man's words when he talks to his daughter, and gradually over the years it gets to be long enough for you to pick up in your hands and weave into a cloth that feels like love itself.
~John Gregory Brown, Decorations in a Ruined Cemetery, 1994

weekends are for wining & dining

After a week or more of constant rainfall, wind, and overall dreariness, we were finally met with glorious sunshine and unseasonably warm temperatures (yesterday at least) this weekend. I should have taken advantage of it yesterday, but unfortunately, there were things that needed attending to in-house. Rosanne & Craig's wedding photos were finally done (a la Christopher), so I was finally able to add the finishing touches to their wedding gift. I also had to make up a few birthday cards. Because we were invited over to Rosanne & Craig's house for the evening, with the prospect of helping her polish off a few bottles of the wedding wine (oh sweet baby Jesus, Georgie's homemade wine), I knew I wouldn't feel like sweeping floors and loading and unloading the washer today, so I did my Sunday clean up on Saturday afternoon. And, now as I type, curled up on the couch under a blanket with a large glass of hydrating water by my side, I'm so thankful that I decided to do that.

We had a great night at the MacLeod's. Chris, me, Sue Ellen, Kellsay, Jyl and Pat came over to help with the wine polishing, and many laughs and stories ensued. We started the night with a 'slide show' of the wedding pics, since Craig was able to hook up the computer cable to the TV to view them. The overall reception of the photos seemed fairly positive, so Chris and I breathed a big sigh of relief. It was too bad that the rest of the gang couldn't join in. We missed you guys! Thanks so much for your hospitality, newlyweds!! We look forward to many nights together :).

Last night also gave us the opportunity to meet Miss Molly, Rosanne & Craig's new chocolate Lab puppy. She's a ball of energy and completely adorable. And, she's young enough that she doesn't stink. I was in-like with her, and even held her in my lap for a bit and gave her some scratches. It goes without saying, but Chris was beyond infatuated, and I fear the meeting only pushed his need for a dog even closer to the forefront. The thought of being disturbed from sleep every night in 2 hr intervals and looking out for all of my belongings suffering incessant chew marks makes me want to vomit a little, but if I'm going to stay with Chris, I don't know how much longer I can hold off on the 'no dog in my house rule'. I'm reading Marley & Me to try to soften up to the idea, and I suppose, ample visits to the MacLeod home might help me along. But I will make this official by posting it out there on the interwebs: I am NOT responsible for ANY part of anything canine. I will NOT be getting up in the 2 hr intervals to take it out to pee. I will NOT be picking up its piles of poo. I will NOT tolerate doggy kisses or doggy drool on any part of my face. Regular bathing will be required, and I will NOT be the one responsible for doing said cleanings. And a bigger house, with a fenced in yard, is preferred. And the dog has to be a golden Lab puppy. And it should be a she. Yeah. Anyway.

Tonight is Lana's belated birthday shawarma at Cedars where there will be absolutely no puppy talk, and we will undoubtedly leave there with very, very full bellies. I should probably rest up a bit in preparation for the big indulgence before me, so off to enjoy a little more TLC. Happy Sunday, folks!

At the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month...

I urge you all to watch this video, and may each and every one of you take your own two minutes of time to remember.

To all the brave men and women who fought for our freedom, and for those who are still at battle, THANK YOU.

I dedicate this post in particular to Merle McNutt, and Charles T. Wilkinson, veterans of WWII.

Did you hear the one about....

I'm overdue for a post. This is an old joke, so you may have already heard it. I think it's cute. And no, I'm not trying to increase traffic to my blog by posting something with the word "erection" in it.

An old man goes into a drug store to buy some Viagra:

'Can I have 6 tablets, cut in quarters?'

'I can cut them for you', said Dan the pharmacist, 'But a quarter of a tablet will not give you a full erection. '

'I'm 96', said the old man. 'I don't want an erection, I just want it sticking out far enough so I don't p!ss on my slippers!!'

Happy Hump Day!

Happy Birthday Lana!

True friendship comes when silence between two people is comfortable.

--Dave Tyson Gentry

This quote reminds me of a lot of my really good friends, especially my long-time girlie, Lana. Though, there aren't many times when the two of us are silent together in the literal sense, we can go many weeks without talking and pick up like we just talked the day previously. That's a special friendship that needs to be cherished. We've shared many a laugh, and many a tear. She's always got my back, and will fight any giant to uphold something she believes in. She's strong, caring, has great depth of character, and an uncompromising will. She's a loving wife, daughter, sister, aunt, mother to her fur-baby, and a wonderful friend to so many.

Happy Birthday, Lana! I hope the year ahead will be fulfilling, will have much contentment, and will be overflowing in love for you. Love you, girlie!! xoxox

If I close my eyes, will time stand still?

My work schedule just came out for the first week of December.

How is that even possible?

Where did the last 8 months go? How depressing.

Money talks

In a world of uncertainty, violence, inhumanity, and lack of goodwill toward thy neighbor, it's refreshing to know that there are still a few good people left. I was completely astounded to read of one couple's recent generosity:

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/885532--couple-gives-away-11-2m-in-lottery-winnings

There aren't a lot of people out there who would even consider giving up a quarter of his or her winnings to a charitable cause, much less the whole prize. The fact that they were able to bring so much happiness to so many people is heart-warming. The sentence in the article that resonates within me the most is, "'People who know them just know that’s the type of people they are — they’re just happy to have each other”'.

Money can't buy everything.

Oh, and just for the record, though I love him dearly and all, if I won the 649 I'd still be happy to have Chris, but you can be sure I'd be also hanging onto that cash ;).

Sweet talkin'

Actual email exchange:

Chris: "All the good candy is gone :("

Me: "Am I to interpret that you ate ALL of the chocolate bars from the candy bowl?
~ or ~
All of the good candy in the stores is picked over, and you couldn't get more good candy at a discounted price?"

Chris: "From the bowl. Only one pack of runts - I saved the banana for you."

I've said it before, but I'll say it again...perhaps I have the mind of a 12 year old boy...but...this made me laugh. Out loud. One of the many reasons why I love him, of course. The attached picture was a secondary message. First, I laughed at the actual message. Then, I laughed again when I opened the picture. He's such a goof. He even saved the Kitkats for me (moreso because he doesn't like them, but still).

Spooktacular!

Well folks, another successful Halloween is behind us. There is always a costume contest at work. Usually I don't bother, but this year, I decided to dress up as Velma, from Scooby Doo (the old school version, not the new, svelte one of the recent Scooby movies). Let's face it, it wasn't that much of a stretch. All I had to do was don a pair of dark frames and I was instantly transformed. I use the term, "transformed" rather loosely, because, really, I pretty much look just like her. I had the turtleneck and frames at home, and I found the red skirt for a mere $2.36 at a local thrift store. I almost bought a cheap pair of red shoes, but since my quest for orange/rust colored knee socks went unrequited, I opted for black socks to match the black Mary Jane's which I already owned.

I didn't win the contest, but most people knew who I was, which was a relief ;). Some might not have recalled her name, but at least I got, "Hey aren't you that girl from Scooby Doo?". Seeing as how closely Chris can resemble Shaggy after going a few days unshaven and a few weeks past a haircut, you probably haven't seen the last of this particular costume idea.

The attached pic was one my manager took of the costumed group. The two boys peeking around me in the pic are Alex & Chris -two of my favourite work peeps. Alex toughed himself up...even shaving his head for the occasion (now that's dedication to the holiday!). Sadly, he didn't win the contest either, but he got an honorable mention.

Halloween night, Chris & I dressed up a little bit scarier, and were sure to instill a bit of trickery on the unsuspecting (well, some were suspecting, and made sure to "come to that house after dark cause it's better after dark") hoodlets. We had a few helpers this year. Many thanks and kudos go out to Matt & Nicole, who are just as twisted as Chris and I, and I think they equally enjoyed themselves :). We already have thoughts running amongst our head for next year, which could possibly include a fog machine. Be sure to stay tuned ;).

(I am currently having storage issues with my laptop...and my geek has warned me not to download any of my new pics from my camera card until he comes up with a solution for me. I will add pics to this post as soon as I can).

As in previous years, our deck was full of 'greeters'. The darker it got, the harder it was to discern which of our greeters were real, and which were merely taking up space. I was the holder of the treats, but we tricked a few into thinking the rigged candy bowl was 'real' (Chris took an old plastic bowl and covered the bottom of it with wrapped gum pieces, spray-gluing the whole thing to trick them. It was so funny to watch their faces when they saw him go to dump them into their treat bags and they didn't move). The standard soundtrack of screams, howls, a chainsaw and a heartbeat, along with the rustling of the dead sunflowers surely helped in setting up a spoooooktacular setting, and a few squeals from the passersby confirmed it.

Our final tally of kids is not known, for a few always come back for a 2nd scare, and I know a few passed by without stopping in for their treat.

I hope you all enjoyed a safe and happy haunting, too :).

He's back

Well, after 9 days apart, my boy is back with me again. The Chris-trail has replaced the once neat and tidy atmosphere surrounding me. I've caught the toilet seat up, and him drinking from the milk container. But, I couldn't be happier. He greeted me at the door yesterday with roses, with his hair freshly cut, and a clean-shaven face. We went out for dinner and then onward to Starbucks for a salted caramel hot chocolate for dessert. Once again, I had my "spot" back as I snuggled in on his shoulder, and suddenly, all was right with the world again.

Pffft....and you all thought it was hormones ;).

Make them disappear.

Seriously. I need the miniature Halloween chocolates to stay away from me. And my ass.

Really.

an apple a day, or something like that

Gentlemen, avert your eyes. This is a girlie post. Still reading? Oooookay...don't say that you haven't been warned...

So I had my yearly physical a while back. Way too much time had passed since my last one. I get to the appointment, and Sandra, the doctor's nurse says to me, 'Don't pee'. 'CRAP!', I thought to myself...seeing as I'd already evacuated my bladder not once, but twice already in anticipation of the upcoming appointment. I tried. I failed. Then she comes into the room to advise, 'Now Dr. G has a student with him today. He's a 3rd year intern and his name is Christopher. The doctor was wondering if you'd mind if Christopher did the exam while he observed?'. I did a sweepy motion 'round the girls down to the va-jay-jay and said, 'The whole exam?'. 'Well, yes', matter of factly. I replied that I didn't feel comfortable, and we left it at that.

So I sit on the rough paper on the patient bench, willing the back of the johnny shirt closed, feeling the breeze on parts I shouldn't feel a breeze, minutes felt like hours as I waited for my 'time' with the doctor. He finally enters the room, gets me into 'position' and starts the process. *Knock, knock*...."Doctor, there's a call for you". Apparently it was a rather important phone call because he ungloved and excused himself. So at this point I'm now still in "position" and the breeze is now blowing 'round other areas. I try to concentrate on the song playing on the loud speaker. I try to remember how old I was when I'd first heard it. It has a good beat. Yeah.

FINALLY he returns. Now the real reason for my visit to the doctor was my routine check me up, but since he was going to be all up in there anyway, I figured he may as well reach in and grab my interuterine device that had been up there for so long I'm sure there were cobwebs forming. Since this wasn't something the general practitioner sees on a daily basis, he looked almost gleeful at the prospect of it being a learning opportunity for Christopher, his intern. And with that look of glee, as I'm rocking out in the stirrups, he asked me if I'd mind if Christopher observed. Having zero humility left at that very moment, what else could I have done but agree in the name of medicine and education? So in waltzes Dr. Dougie "Christopher" Howser. He looks like he's 12. And he looks more embarrassed than I felt. We exchanged niceties and the procedure was complete in a matter of moments. The doctor ended the appointment with a story about a woman who had her device up inside since her kid was born. He asked her how old the kid was. 19. We all shared a little embarrassed laugh and called it a day. Lord knows how much inspiration that young little intern got out of that day. 'Least I had a clean bill of health.

Note: I had this post sitting in my drafts for months, unfinished. I had extended so much effort to write it, I figured why not post it? I mean, ya'll are here because you want regular posts to read, and to perhaps thank the sweet Baby Jesus that your life isn't like the one you read about. I haven't been posting as regularly as I'd like to, so now you've got my completed Drafts to look forward to :). And ladies, interns or no interns (unless they look like the hot guy on Greys), get your routine checks done.

"Few things are harder to put up with than the annoyance of a good example"*

I woke up 45 minutes late today. When I woke up the house was a cool 13 degrees Celcius. Having to hop into the shower when it's THAT cold in the house is near torture. Sooo, since I started my day off being annoyed, I figured it fitting to continue my list of annoyances for your reading pleasure. See also this, this, and even this, if you're so inclined. I really am a nice person despite the bitchiness that is a little apparent in the postings. Hey, it's good to get it out, wha? And without further ado, the list goes on...

-videos buffering. It's.like.I.lose.extra.years.off.of.my.life.while.I.wait.for.the.g.d.thing.to.load.
-large lettuce leaves in my caesar salad (and why is it only caesar? Perhaps it's something I just don't know about. Is that particular form of rabbit food intended to be consumed with a knife and fork and not just a fork?)
-incessant nose whistles! I hate, hate, hate, hate that. I mean, seriously, can't you HEAR yourself? I instantly start sucking back imaginary snot myself trying to WILL the person to suck their own back to squelch the whistle. It never works, either.

-candid photos. I know, I know, they're "fun". Why always be 'posed'? Well, when you have more than one chin and a baker's dozen (rolls, that is) down your front it's very important to be strategically posed to try to cut down on the obvious. Standing in behind a large tree also helps.

-when people say, "for all intensive purposes". It's FOR ALL INTENTS AND PURPOSES, people! You try to sound intelligent, but you just end up failing. Miserably.
-Since I'm on the topic of the English language, some major annoyances -- when people don't get the difference between your and you're, than and then or even they're/there/their. I've taken the liberty to link a few handy reference guides if you find yourself amongst them. I won't judge. Well, maybe I will. If you're a FB friend and you're (see what I just did there?) amongst those who are perpetually guilty of said offenses, I may have hidden you from view.

I could probably ramble on ad nauseam, but the morning comes early and since I already overslept today, and I've consumed a cup of Sleepytime Tea, methinks it's time I call it a night. This has been fun though. Feel free to add to the list in the comments ;). I just know I can't be the only one thinking these thoughts...

**EDIT: Because it's too important to not include and at the risk of sounding pompous and rude: 'IRREGARDLESS' IS NOT A WORD, PEOPLE! (Thanks Trudy ;) -- I totally meant to include that one).

*Mark Twain.

absence makes the heart grow fonder?

Chris and I have been together for a long time. Due to a roommate situation, we were actually pushed into cohabitation a little sooner than most new couples would decide on. We made do, and we've lasted through so I guess it wasn't such a bad thing :). He's very busy - working a full-time day job, and in the hours in-between that, busying himself pursuing his photography career. A lot of his time is spent holed away in his office, editing. I'm okay with him doing his own thing, because I like to do my own thing, too. The constant, though we may not spend a whole lot of time doing things together, however, is the fact that he's here.

On Thursday evening Chris left for Ottawa. His day job workplace is opening up a new store in Ottawa, and he is needed up there to help set up shop. I would have loved to have been able to coordinate some vacation days to join him, but that wasn't do-able, and really, he's likely going to be stuck working long hours so it wouldn't have been any sort of vacation for us. We do plan to go back on our own someday soon (maybe next year's vacation?). So as it stands, we're now apart for just over a week, and though he'd traveled for work before, this time I was left with an empty, sad feeling upon his leaving.

I blame my reaction on being utterly hormonal, but I was close to tears all day in anticipation of his departure, and though I'd planned to stay strong until he closed the door, I ended up in tears about 45 minutes before he left. When he did close the door, I ended up in a puddle of emotion on the couch, filling the rest of the evening watching Dr. Hook songs on Youtube and reading old email correspondence from when we first started dating. That night, I put his sweater overtop his pillow, and hugged it til I fell asleep.

I guess I miss him. And, I guess I kinda love him.

Or it may be the hormones.

“There is more to life than increasing its speed.”**

We're waiting on the construction of a new flue cover/rain cap and piping for our furnace. Because of this, the furnace now has a big plastic bag strapped to it to keep rainwater out. And, because of this temporary plastic covering, that means our furnace is out of commission until it's properly covered. No furnace, of course = no heat. The crispness that is the fall air has reduced the outside temperatures, with a light covering of frost already a few mornings. That means it's frickin COLD in the 'hood for us! The coldest, so far, upon wake up has been 12 degrees (Celcius), with the norm anywhere between 14 and 16. Which isn't toooo bad, provided you always have a sweater and slippers donned, and are covered with a blanket. We also have a tiny electric space heater that packs an amazing punch for its size -- and in a few hours, our living room has even reached a crispy 20 degrees C! Today, I am thankful for the inventor of portable electric space heaters. Thank you very much!

One way to stay warm in a cold house? Clean! I've done a clean sweep of the house, minus the bedroom (why, oh why do I always stop short at the bedroom?). The laundry has been laundered, and it's only Saturday. I am looking forward to a relaxing weekend before it's time to return to work on Monday. Today I'm having a girlie day with Lanners. We're going to hang out for a bit, go grab a quick (ie, cheap) bite for supper, and then if the weather cooperates (it's windy and rainy now), we're going to meet up at her Dad's and join more of her family to then head onward to Summerside for the haunted corn maze*. The original plan was for her to come back here and we'd have an old fashioned sleepover, but due to my aforementioned heating situation, she's opted to just come back for a movie (we'll likely have to leave the space heater on), some popcorn, and a girlie movie to help us get over our fright. I've rented "Letters to Juliet". It should be a good day!

*Update: Well, the weather did not cooperate for any haunting in a corn field, but it turned out to be the perfect evening for a girlie night of chick flicks. We dined on spaghetti that I put together (how's that for cheap?), and then settled in for a viewing of The Perfect Man, Letters to Juliet, and P.S. I Love You. It was a perfectly relaxing evening. Thanks Lana!! :) xo.

**A perfect 'relaxing' quote by Ghandi.

Purple

We, the collective 'we', between you and I may be only one person to ourselves, but we can combine with a nation of you, I's and we's to show our support to help banish hate crimes, one person at a time. Bullying is wrong on any level. Bullying due to someone's sexual orientation is abhorring on every possible level. My heart goes out to all the families affected by the recent tragedies involving the young men who committed suicide after having suffered countless hours, days, or even years of menacing and relentless torment.

GLAAD has proposed that we make Oct 20 Spirit Day and that we wear purple as a symbol that we are not ok with bullying, and we're taking a stand for what we believe in. Purple will become a symbol for peace, just as wearing pink is a symbol for our support for those who are battling, and a memorial to those that have lost their battle with breast cancer.

Today is Spirit Day. Are you wearing purple to show your support today? I am.

http://www.helium.com/items/1986120-spirit-day-why-wearing-purple-on-october-20-will-help-to-end-hate-crimes

Money in, money out

It's payday. You know, the day that comes 'round on a bi-weekly basis where you feel super flush first thing in the morning, and then feel like a beggar by the afternoon?

Least that's payday for me.

Jeesh.

I may not eat for the next two weeks, but all the bills are paid.

That bites.

Probably one of my least happy places on earth is standing outside my cold car, in the cold, grasping the cold scraper in my bare hands, scraping my cold frosty windows for the first time of a new season.

BRRR.

Stay warm! xo

For the hard to buy for lady on your shopping list...

...or for those who just want to try doing an old thing a completely new way, may I suggest The Fenis? It's phonetically pronounced as you would guess - like "penis" with an 'f'. And, it's purpose is for the ladies of the world to have the freedom and option to pee like a man. They are "inspired by nature's own design". You simply just attach it to your...er...nether region, whilst standing, and allow the pooling action to then flow through the tiny pee hole. I would dare say the sound effects would be hauntingly the same as our male counterparts'. They're made of silicone, and at just $15 bones* a pop, they're a virtual bargain. Oh, and they come in a rainbow of colours, too! That would come in so handy for those households with more than one female so you wouldn't mix them up, kinda like wine glass charms.

In all seriousness, this is a real product (click the link above -- you know you wanna). It's Canadian, and invented by a fellow in Nova Scotia. His idea was featured on tonight's episode of the Dragon's Den. I have to admit, the idea of having the option to not even risk a hover in those questionable washrooms we sometimes find ourselves in is slightly attractive. But man, slip it in my pocket or in a baggie for later cleansing? That's just nasty. Perhaps they oughta come up with a disposable prototype? Then they can possibly take it that next step entirely and come up with a plan for women and men alike for a disposable poop sac or human doggie bag when the urge to number 2 creeps on us. Now that's something to be invented.

I'm just getting silly now. As you were.

*Err...pardon the pun...:)

Monday dressed up like a Tuesday

You all know that I LOVE days off; you all likely also know that I take full advantage of days off, and have been known to hone my loafing skills with each and every opportunity. This weekend was no different. I did have to work on Saturday so unlike the rest of the country, I did not have myself a 3 day weekend. I had Friday off as my scheduled day off for working the Saturday, and as I felt slightly like poo, the majority of that day was spent sleeping (I, did, however go to the garage and have my oil changed in my car and had them look at my tire. Turns out the tire is a write-off - repairable only to serve as a spare. Fortunately my little plastic car was equipped with a full-sized spare). Saturday night I fell asleep on the couch after supper; upon waking, I drug my dreary arse to bed for the night. Pure excitement.

Sunday, we celebrated Thanksgiving at Chris' parents home -- turkey with alllll the fixins, and Rose was kind enough to invite my momma along, too. The only bad part about not cooking your own holiday turkey is the fact that you have no leftovers.

And that brings us to yesterday - Chris & I took a drive out to Kensington, in hopes that the Frosty Treat would be open to have an anniversary milkshake. Sadly, it was closed for the season, so we moved on to Summerside and stopped into the Cold Stone Creamery for an ice cream treat instead. It had been our first time there, and let me just say that I think it's a wonderful thing that we don't have one of those devilish delights in Charlottetown yet (especially after my experience on the scale at the W homestead on Sunday --but that's an entirely different blog post altogether...). On our travels, we ran into Marco & Krissy and Krissy's brand new Suburu Impreza (wow what a car), so we chatted with them for a bit. After heading back into town, we hit Jumbo Video to grab a movie (Orphan (Halloween season is upon us!)), and a pizza, and headed back home to relax. We even shared the same couch! (It was a special occasion ;)).

And now it's back to work again... SO freaking busy at work. While my calendar told me it was Tuesday today, it sure as heck felt like a Monday to me.

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend, filled with togetherness and love :).

Another year stronger...

It was an unusually warm start to the Fall season. I agreed to finally meet you after 4 years of knowing you only electronically. You picked me up at my townhouse and off we went, with the top down on the Tracker, to Kensington, for face-to-face conversation over a chocolate milkshake at the Frosty Treat.

It sometimes feels like forever ago. It sometimes feels like it was only yesterday. We've seen our share of ups and downs, and through it all, what has always been a constant was the love between us. You've been my rock. You make me laugh even when all I want to do is hold onto the frown. You push me to higher levels. You catch me when I fall. You take care of me. You're the cream to my coffee; the peas to my carrots; the PB to my jelly; the cherry to my sundae. Thank you for always being a constant in my life. The future doesn't scare me, because I know I have you by my side.

Happy Anniversary, hunny.....ELEPHANT SHOES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! XOXOXOXOXO

Happy Birthday, Superman!

Craig is a co-worker, and friend. Today, he's another year wiser, so in true blog fashion, I am celebrating him today. He's confident, generous with his time, and never backs down to a challenge. He listens without judgement, and offers up his advice whenever it's needed. He has a great sense of humour, and I think possibly, deep down, is a little shy underneath that confident outer layer. He prides himself on being the best he can be -- a true "Super" man*. Happy Birthday Craig - wishing you much happiness, much friendship, love, kindness and prosperity!

*I tease him about his "Superman" pose with hands on his hips. He was really excited to show me his new Superman t-shirt and I convinced him I had to get a picture. He agreed, and he approved the posting of the pic. Thanks for being such a great sport, Craig :).

Celebrating Tanya

On October 2, Tanya turned another year on the calendar. This year marks a special year for her as it's her first birthday as a mother. She was already blessed with the greatest birthday gift when Ryder entered her world, but I still hope that she was able to take time for herself, to celebrate herself on her special day. Tanya has been a dear friend to me for years. She's seen me through good times and bad, and I know that if I ever need anything, I can depend on her at a moment's notice. She's a loving wife and momma, sister, daughter, niece, and friend to so many, and she's truly a treasure to all who know her.

Happy Birthday Tanya! I sincerely hope that the year ahead of you brings you never-ending joy, happiness and boundless love and affection. Thank you for always being a special part of my life. Love you...xoxoxox.

What's goin' on??

I have a long list of bookmarked blogs that I try to get to read on a regular basis. I'll be the first to admit that I am a bit behind in some of my reading, but there are a few that I make myself read in a timely manner. I know how it feels to go to these pages every day and not see a recent update. It's at these times that I may feel a bit of disappointment that I don't have something new to read over coffee and my All-bran bar during my morning break. This feeling, I dare say, must be how you all feel when you search out My Happy Place* looking for a new witty post only to see the same old post that you've already read a week ago. I'm truly sorry to all my devoteds. These past few months seem to have passed in time warp speed. When the heck did it get to be October, anyway???!?? Couple that with the most recent seasons of Big Brother and the Bachelorette being over, I'm lucky Blogger hasn't shut me down completely.

Ok, now I've reduced myself to point-form to try to get as much written in my short breaktime. So in the most recent past this has happened....

• In addition to my previously mentioned birthday girlies, there's another lovely to add to my list, and that is the lovely Nicole, who also celebrated a birthday last week. Chris & I were invited over to their place for some pizza and cake. It was delightful to open the front door to see a ceiling full of balloons with flowing ribbons and streamers. So pretty :). The unicorn-pooping-rainbows-themed cake was the icing on the sundae ;). Happy Birthday Nicole!!!! xoxo
• Saturday was my bestie Tanya's birthday -- she gets her own post dedicated to just her because she's so special. That may have to wait for another breaktime though. We're also going out to supper tonight to celebrate her, so I will also try to include a picture :).
• Saturday was also a very special day for other great friends of mine, namely Rosanne and Craig who got married! The wedding was super-fabulous with a touching service at Stanhope Resort, followed by reception/delicious homemade goodies/(including Rosanne's momma's homemade wine - oh my!)/chance to see their brand-new beautiful home, and then onward to Fishbones for an all-out dance party. It was an amazing time for two amazing people -- and I wish them nothing but happiness from now on to eternity. Congratulations guys!! Love you both!! xoxox.
• I'm still keeping up with my weekly momma & me nights, though, it had been 2 weeks since our last night out on account of the last few weeks being as busy as they were. We hit the city last evening and she got a lot of her Christmas shopping accomplished, and we ended off with a delicious BP supper. Love you, momma!!! xoxo
• I'm still kind of out of the scrapbooking loop on account of my wrist issues. Though, with several new babies & birthdays in my circle I'm still able to use some of my product with a few gifts and cards. I do still want to give out homemade Christmas cards this year, so I will have to try to get a start on them pronto so that I can pick away at them a few at a time. (Supposing to do that I really should clean up that freaking craft room, eh? Aaaannnyway....). Speaking of scrapping, and as it's now official news, I want to formally congratulate my scrapping mentor, Angela, on her newest endeavor. Coming soon to Charlottetown, The Scrapbook Studio! It's set to open mid-November, so do check it out! Tell Ang I sent ya! This has really been a long-time dream of Angela's, and I do wish her every success. Congratulations, Ang!! All the best!

I'm due for a few days off work in the coming weeks - I'll be sure to post a bunch more, including pictures of the goings-on!! :)

*And I'm so sure that there are dozens and dozens of faithful readers and lurkers. Riiiiiiight. Thanks to the handful of you that really do tune in on your own regular basis....xoxox.

Birthday girlies!

As ya'll know, this past weekend was a pretty busy one. Chris, myself and his brother Shawn headed to NS *very* early on Saturday morning (the goal was to be on the road by 6am), as Grammie McNutt's funeral was at 10am. It was a nice service, and one I think she'd really appreciate. Though again meeting up for a sad affair, it was still nice to see everyone, and we had a nice visit with family, including Chris' Nannie W, his Aunt Denise (whom we stayed with on Saturday night. Thanks for the over-generous hospitality and the to-die-for foods, Auntie!!), and his Uncle Roy/Aunt Trish. It was late in the evening on Sunday before we landed back on the Island. A special thank you to all who sent along their condolences, thoughts and prayers. And to LA - thanks so much for the beautiful card. We're both so lucky to have so many wonderful friends xoxo.

So, in my blogging absence, I've missed posting well wishes to some birthday girls. I shall now celebrate them with a few belated wishes, since they're so awesome :).

The lovely RhondaB lit another candle this year. Rhonda is a special, special person with a heart of gold. She's tons of fun, loves having a good time, and is an amazing wife and mother. She's one of my biggest fans and I thank her for continued words of encouragement and enthusiasm. Thank you Rhonda for your friendship. You're a real keeper! I look forward to many, many shared times, whether we're celebrating another year on the calendar, summer kick offs, or concerts of a lifetime. Love ya, girlie!! xoxo.

Next we have Miss Trudy! Trudy is someone I truly adore. She's my cousin, and most importantly, my friend. She's witty, sarcastic, thoughtful, and real. I've often been after her to start up a blog of her own, and lo and behold, this year, she went and did just that. She's a crafty little thing - sewing things from scratch, and re-purposing things others have long given up on. Go on and say hello - tell her I sent ya :). Wishing you mucho happy, lady. Thanks for all the laughs. I'm raising a tumbler of Crown 'n ginger up high in the air to celebrate the cornucopia of awesomeness that is YOU! xoxo.

And finally we have the lovely Miss Dina. Dina & I work together. She's a little camera shy. Actually, she vehemently avoids any and all cameras, so this picture is a typical picture of her. Dina is a very thoughtful, very generous person. She loves a practical joke, and many a time she's pulled some very serious wool over the eyes of her co-workers, and in the end, we all laugh along with her. She tirelessly prepares cakes for our birthdays (making the most amazing carrot cake & 7 layer squares, btw), and makes us all feel so special on our special days. I hope you're feeling extra super special on YOUR special day, Dina-beana!!!! Thanks for everything you do!! xoxo.

Happy, Happy Birthday, girlies!!!!!!!!!

some days you're a bug, some days you're a windshield

For a moment I almost opted to not share the following story with the interwebs. I was going to chalk it up to another 'dumb girl' moment, and move on. But, if my own idiocy can help at least one person out there, then my feelings of stupidity shall not have been in vain.

Allow me to back track.

It was Monday morning. I was once again running late to get to work. For the past while, I've been fortunate enough to time my travels right to the last second, and have been able to log in just on time. This day, I knew I'd be pushing it a teensy-weensy bit, so there was no time to fiddle with the radio dial, sunglasses, or my lint brush. I put the car in gear and applied pressure to the gas. The car lurched a bit. And it had a bit of a strange noise. I was concerned, yes, but, again, was running late. I immediately assumed there was something terribly wrong - possibly a belt, or perhaps even a problem with my transmission. It just felt really bogged down and sloggy. I made it to work, late by 2 minutes, and immediately did the only thing I felt I could do about the situation: I emailed the boy.

Of course, having not actually driven the car himself, and basing his diagnosis on my feeble attempt at a technical description of the morning events ("it just felt...boggy..."), he remained puzzled as well. I admit, I didn't read too much concern between the lines, either. I, on the other hand, had a mild case of the poops, going through inner turmoil at the very thought of the car having something terribly wrong with it, and the possibility of getting stranded in the middle of ongoing traffic. Add to that a dead cell phone in my purse, and slight reservations on even being able to pop the hood since I drive a German car with a strangely complicated latch to open the hood. Even the guy at the gas station can attest to that. I personally have yet to successfully open it myself.

So, I suggested to the boy that perhaps he wouldn't mind taking a stop into my work during his lunch hour to take it for a drive. I knew deep down that as soon as he witnessed what I'd witnessed, he'd immediately know what to do, or, at least he'd fill me with the confidence to simply take it to the dealership. He wasn't thrilled at the prospect, and actually ignored my message. I worried that he'd not come by. Thankfully, he's a bit of an amazing sort of guy, and he did come to my rescue, after all. I walked up to him perched on the back of his own vehicle. He was browsing his iPod, and waiting. He was waiting for me, yes, but he was also waiting for my tire to inflate.

Yes, folks, tire. I had a flat tire. It wasn't a belt. It wasn't the transmission. I had a flat tire. Apparently, your car doesn't tend to move forward very smoothly with a square wheel. Luckily, I didn't damage the tire or the rim while I rode from the 'hood to work....

Moral of the story: the little 'once around' that they teach you at drivers ed? Turns out it's actually useful. Make sure your tires aren't low before embarking on a journey.

Oh, and I bought him lunch for his trouble. Love you honey...xoxo.

Farewell to a fine, fine lady

This week, the world lost a great lady. Marguerite McNutt was a war-bride - following her husband to Canada from Belgium. They had many happy years together, celebrating their 50th anniversary in 1995. Sadly, her husband Merle passed away thereafter, and I'm sure she's delighted to have the opportunity to be reunited with him again.

She was a lovely woman, with the biggest of hearts. She was Chris' Grammie. His momma's mom. And, she will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her, and loving her.

Rest in peace, Marguerite...xoxo.

In the night of death, hope sees a star, and listening love can hear the rustle of a wing. ~Robert Ingersoll

heart to heart

I saw this news story this morning, and was so touched by it I felt I had to share it with all my readers. *Kleenex warning*

Birthday wishes

Today is my big brother's birthday. And last Tuesday was his wife, Belinda's birthday. Because their special days are so close together, I usually end up giving them a collective wish (ever the multi-tasker). So, HAPPY BIRTHDAY BELINDA AND FRED!! They live in Ontario, so I don't get the chance to see them as much as I would like. Though the miles may keep us separated, they're never far from my mind. Join me in raising a cocktail to celebrate another happy, successful year for the both of them.

Cheers B and Fredu -Love and miss you much xoxox. Happy Birthday. May the year ahead bring you more happiness and prosperity than you know what to do with!

Weeeeeeeeeee!!!!

I'm sure after repeated viewings this will becoming annoying, but now, after just a few views, it makes me giggle: