“Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect. It means that you've decided to look beyond the imperfections.”
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Tuesday 28 December 2010
Christmas - a recount
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.
Thursday 23 December 2010
a humbling dose of reality
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...
Tuesday 21 December 2010
*Yawn*
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!
Monday 20 December 2010
Serenity??
+ 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*
Saturday 18 December 2010
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.
Thursday 16 December 2010
dear passage of time: please SLOW down.
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.
Wednesday 15 December 2010
can andy say that?
This totally made my day today. Thanks Ellen!!!
...checking it twice...
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).
Tuesday 14 December 2010
Making a list...
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!
Saturday 11 December 2010
Santa Paws
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.
Thursday 9 December 2010
Making a new tradition
Happy Thursday
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!
Tuesday 7 December 2010
All's well that ends well
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 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.
Wednesday 1 December 2010
don't let this happen in your home
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.
Tuesday 30 November 2010
this post brought to you courtesy of Lou Bega
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?
Friday 26 November 2010
Thursday 25 November 2010
sh!t my mom says...
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".
Wednesday 24 November 2010
one mo' time!
Happy Birthday Todd!
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.
Monday 22 November 2010
52 years ago
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.
Saturday 20 November 2010
Movember -- it's in you to give
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!!
Thursday 18 November 2010
A sign
Tuesday 16 November 2010
A party in Heaven
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
Sunday 14 November 2010
weekends are for wining & dining
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!
Thursday 11 November 2010
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.
Wednesday 10 November 2010
Did you hear the one about....
Saturday 6 November 2010
Happy Birthday Lana!
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
Friday 5 November 2010
If I close my eyes, will time stand still?
How is that even possible?
Where did the last 8 months go? How depressing.
Thursday 4 November 2010
Money talks
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 ;).
Tuesday 2 November 2010
Sweet talkin'
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).
Monday 1 November 2010
Spooktacular!
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.
(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 :).
Saturday 30 October 2010
He's back
Pffft....and you all thought it was hormones ;).
Thursday 28 October 2010
Make them disappear.
Really.
Tuesday 26 October 2010
an apple a day, or something like that
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.
Monday 25 October 2010
"Few things are harder to put up with than the annoyance of a good example"*
-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.
-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.
Sunday 24 October 2010
absence makes the heart grow fonder?
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.
Saturday 23 October 2010
“There is more to life than increasing its speed.”**
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.
Wednesday 20 October 2010
Purple
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
Friday 15 October 2010
Money in, money out
Least that's payday for me.
Jeesh.
I may not eat for the next two weeks, but all the bills are paid.
Thursday 14 October 2010
That bites.
BRRR.
Stay warm! xo
Wednesday 13 October 2010
For the hard to buy for lady on your shopping list...
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...:)
Tuesday 12 October 2010
Monday dressed up like a Tuesday
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 :).
Monday 11 October 2010
Another year stronger...
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
Sunday 10 October 2010
Happy Birthday, Superman!
Saturday 9 October 2010
Celebrating Tanya
Wednesday 6 October 2010
What's goin' on??
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.
Wednesday 29 September 2010
Birthday girlies!
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!!!!!!!!!
Monday 27 September 2010
some days you're a bug, some days you're a windshield
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.
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.
Thursday 23 September 2010
Farewell to a fine, fine lady
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
Wednesday 22 September 2010
Birthday wishes
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!!!!
Sunday 19 September 2010
To think too long about doing a thing often becomes its undoing*
*sigh*
Such has been my weekend.
The cat hair is tumbleweeding around my living room. Our bedroom looks like someone raided it looking for drug cash. There is evidence everywhere that Chris has been here and gone as he frantically readied himself for his last day of a photography workshop (even the trail of Island red dirt from his sneakers as he backtracked over to me (on the couch) to give me a good-bye kiss. And, we can't get mad at him for leaving a mess, because he did think to backtrack for a kiss, without prompting, right?) The laundry has finished it's cycle, and sits there, waiting for me...yet I can't seem to grab enough energy to get off my still-pajama'd arse to change it.
The saddest part? I'm not feeling overly guilty about it. We're so busy at work these days I think I really and truly need moments of do-nothing downtime to recharge. In between writing and posting this, I did get up and change the laundry to another load. I did fold the one that was waiting in the dryer, and I did start a rather lengthy post in drafts that I'm not sure the world is ready to read. I'm still in my jammies. The cat hair tumbleweeds are still passing by. I've already consumed two hot cups of coffee, and I'm all caught up on FB. Our bedroom is still in chaos. I didn't get into my craft room to straighten it up and start a few gifts like I'd planned. That can wait til tomorrow, right?
I think I'll go see what's on TLC.
*Quote by Eva Young
Tuesday 14 September 2010
just a litttttttle more....
Wednesday 8 September 2010
"...my brain is backstabbing me..."
Lane-ism of the night: "To see Britney hurting that bad...was like seeing one of my dog's died".
Chris-ism of the night, bemoaning the loss of the BB boobs: "Eff. Now it's just a sausage-fest"....followed by a heavy sigh.
"MEOW MEOW!!!!!"
Saturday 4 September 2010
Earl, huh? I never ever liked that name.
I was up early -- before 9am, possibly even before 8:30am. I wasn't quite ready for my morning coffee so when Chris had made his I didn't ask him to put one on for me. It was I dunno ....7 MINUTES from then and we had our first power outage. It came on after 4 minutes,...I quickly got up and raced to get a coffee....put the k-pack in, hit "brew"...and *poof* ...power out again*. I'm unhappy with you Earl. It's slightly windy out there, but you haven't even gotten here yet.
I haven't even showered.
It's going to be a long Saturday.
*Update: after about 20 mins we regained power again -- first coffee has been consumed, and I'm showered up. With the possibility of more power blips I can't possibly do laundry ;).... I do have two books on the go --reading may be my biggest priority today. I hope everyone weathers this storm safely..xo.
Chris Scott, meteorologist
Earl is still a very impressive storm on satellite and radar imagery as we are showing on-air at The Weather Network. This storm will not weaken much as it slams into the Nova Scotia shore this morning.
The centre of Earl will move quickly along the south shore of Nova Scotia this morning bringing very strong southeast winds to areas from Barrington to Halifax. Winds will quickly increase across the rest of Nova Scotia as Earl moves in this morning.
Based on the current track, it is a certainty that the strongest winds from this storm will be felt along the shore of Nova Scotia. Even the east shore and Cape Breton will see very strong winds based on the track that will take the centre of the storm just west of these areas.
You may have been wondering about the discrepancy between the Canadian Hurricane Centre and the U.S. National Hurricane Centre in calling Earl a hurricane vs. a tropical storm. Well, the fact is it is impossible to know without having anemometers in all parts of the storm, and later today, it will get even trickier to decide whether this system is still mainly tropical.
Bottom line – it doesn’t really matter what the storm has been called, or is called now. The winds are going to be strong enough to cause some damage along the shore today, most likely tree damage which will cause power outages.
We are lucky the storm isn’t stronger, but this is still a large and powerful tropical cyclone that is rolling through Atlantic Canada.
Source: http://www.theweathernetwork.com/?ref=topnav_news_logo