Happy Birthday Julie!

I'm happy to call the beautiful gal to the right one of my very, very best friends.  This is Julie, and she's celebrating a birthday today!  How I wish I could have joined in on the East Coast celebration last night in the Yukon with her! 

Julie, you're beautiful, inside, and out.  You're a wonderful friend.  Your smile brightens up the darkest of rooms.  Your laugh brings a smile to the grumpiest of grumps.  You deserve the utmost of happiness, and I hope the year ahead brings you more smiles, laughter and happiness than you can fit in your heart.  I love you dearly, my sweet, sweet, friend....xoxoxo

“A friend is a hand that is always holding yours, no matter how close or far apart you may be. A friend is someone who is always there and will always, always care. A friend is a feeling of forever in the heart.”

Today, we shall eat cake...

...for, it is a very special day.  My BonBon is celebrating a birthday!!!  Happy Birthday Jon.  He makes 50 look pretty freaking appetizing, wha?

Happy Birthday Cathy!

Happy Birthday to my big sister!!

© Cyndi Moore

Sister, we've been there through life's sorrow and pain
But together we have always endured the strain
We've argued and bickered and made each other mad
But if you weren't my sister, life would be so sad
We've cried till we laughed and laughed till we cried
Sometimes for no reason we didn't even know why
When we're not together our bond is just as strong
Because we are sisters we know when something is wrong
We've whispered our deepest secrets only sisters could share
I love my sister dearly because she really cares
So whether we are together or we are far apart
You're my sister, my friend and forever in my heart.

Source: My Sister, My Friend, Sister Poem http://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/my-sister-my-friend#ixzz1mlONLotF
Family Friend Poems

Wishing you unending happiness and good times in the year ahead!  Love you! xoxo

Happy Birthday Christopher!

Christopher can mark another year off of his 30's.  He had a birthday yesterday.  I wasn't online enough to write a post (call it lazy, call it busy... put it this way, I was wrapping his presents and constructing his birthday card yesterday morning while he was sipping on his first coffee of the day.  And oh, yeah, he and I did also have a heated Bejewelled battle on the go yesterday and if I neglect to add that to my list of excuses as to why this is late, he'll just mention it himself (I'm now winning again, btw)).  So, here I am to write up a belated tribute to my one 'n only...

You're my rock.  You know how to bring a smile to my face when I do my damndest NOT to smile (even going so far as putting stuff over my face so you can't see the smirk forming).  You know me from the inside out, and I can be my most comfortable and most real when you're there, with me.  You can frustrate the holy heck out of me, and you still forget your dirty socks and dirty drawers on the floor, but I still love you to bits despite those little things.  We've been together a very long time, celebrating a variety of birthdays together. I can't quite remember what life is like without you by my side...and I hope I don't have to think about that for a very, very, very long time. 

Happy Birthday Christopher.  I love you to the moon and back.  Thanks for being my everything xoxo.

75

You would have been 75 years young today, Dad.  Every year, the weeks leading up to your birthday make the ache in my heart a little stronger.  I hope there's a party going on right now in Heaven to celebrate the amazing person that you were.  You were nothing short of wonderful to me.  You taught me so much.  I owe so much to you.... Thank you for guiding me, and shaping me into the person that I am today.  I hope I made you proud.

Since memories fade, and they're all I have of you now, I wanted to recount a few more here, in celebration of you, on your special day:

-sitting on your lap with a bowl of Bits & Bites.  I never liked the cheese cracker bits, so I'd give them to you, and you'd suck them up like a vacuum, and I'd giggle every time.
-surprising me one winter day by coming to my kindergarten class and asking Mrs. MacRae to let me out early so we could go on a 'date'.  We headed to the Rideau Canal where the ice sculptures were. Winterlude was over, and it was just the two of us and your camera.  I have to go find those pictures.  I don't think you're in any of them, sadly.
-the scent of your cologne and the shine of your face after a bath and a fresh shave.  I'd come home from work or being out, to greet you in your chair in the living room, and bend over to kiss your forehead from above.  The smell wasn't overpowering (though sometimes I wonder how it wasn't, being Aqua Velva or Brut, and all!), it was comforting.  The lighthouse blanket used to smell like you.  It doesn't anymore :(.
-those crazy eyebrows of yours.  They stayed so black while your hair went so grey.  Every now and then there'd be a rogue hair that was stuck way out of place and I'd pluck it. You never complained.
-some girls might have thought it weird that their father would ask them to shave their neck.  I didn't mind it though.  I don't think I ever cut you once.  Even with that ancient old razor you used with the Wilkinson Sword blades.
-You must have been a very hard worker - immersing yourself completely in your job at the office. On more than one occasion you started small talk with me as I called your office after waiting impatiently for you to pick me up out front of Main building.  It would go something like this:  you: "Head Material Control Officer, Fred Manuel"...me: "Hi Dad..."....you: "Oh hi Amber, how's it going today?"... me: "Um...aren't your forgetting something??".....you: "Oh! Shit! I'm sorry! I'll be right there!".  You'd look like the cat that swallowed the canary when you got there.
-your smile.  Your eyes twinkled, and you commanded a room (Mom always said it was your Navy arrogance).  Everyone who met you, loved you.
-your hugs.  The biggest, warmest bear hugs ever.  You'd squeeze so tight and hang on just a little longer than most.

God I miss you.................

2011: The Year of the Mouse*

In my absence from posting I turned over another calendar year. As we speak I have exactly 363 days left to suck out whatever I can from my final days of my "thirties" before embarking on a new *gulp* decade.  You would think I'd have an amazing  story to share of the wild party that took place over the weekend.  You would think that I've been suffering a 3 day hangover on account of the rowdiness and the celebration.  You would think. But, that's not the case.

We'll blame the mice.  So far our carcass count is now up to 3.  We had originally hoped the discovery on the hallway floor was a solitary visitor.  Unfortunately, after allowing 2 days to pass after a thorough clean up, there was new 'matter' of the fecal variety discovered in the original hide out place by the water heater (in our bedroom closet, no less.  Yeah.  Awesome).  So, Sunday afternoon, the official "birth" day, Chris went to Canadian Tire to purchase $20 worth of mouse trapping devices, and he crawled around underneath the mini-home placing them in regular intervals, and loaded up the water tank area.  By the time the area was 'secured' it was after 4pm (oh, and p.s. in addition to the traps, he also landed home with a bathroom scale, which he swears was not a birthday gift, just on sale. Regardless, I was feeling old; and fat; and p!ssy about the mice messing with a good day, so well...you know). 

Originally Chris had planned an all-day "Adventure Day", complete with lunch out at one of our favourite restaurants (seasonal), and a drive.  Because we had such a late start, we couldn't do that, but we made the best of it.  Instead, we travelled to Jewell's Country Market and slurped up a HUGE ice cream cone (the evidence of which still shows on the scarf that I wore that day, waiting to be laundered), while walking through the various rows of pretty plants and flowers. From there, we took a drive, and ended up at East Side Marios for eats.  You never leave that place hungry.  Despite saving more than half of my entree for lunch the next day, I felt pretty nasty full.  Oh, and bonus!  We could now weigh ourselves with the purchase of the new bathroom scales, and each carried another 3lbs or so from the huge supper :P.  A few more episodes of Prison Break later, (we're almost done; god, what are we going to do when it's done?) and it was time for bed.

Monday night, Chris joined Mummy & I for supper at Swiss Chalet.  Mummy spoiled me again this year, with a generous gift card to Reitmans (hellloooo new summer attire!) and she also replenished my perfume, too!  Love you, Mummy....xoxoxo.  Thanks to Todd, too, for his gift card. Unfortunately, he had to work, so it was just the three of us for supper.  We settled on Swiss Chalet.  I was so indifferent when it came to making a decision, if the truth be known, that restaurant was really for Mom and Chris.  My ears have been bothering me (to find out today that the cold I had a few weeks back has plugged them up really good -and now I'm on a prescription to clear them), so I wasn't even that hungry.  From there, we went back to Momma's for a bit, then on to his parents' house for a visit.  Thanks to Rose & Charlie for the gorgeous scarf, tops & little kitty pin! 

On Sunday I have plans to meet up with Lana for some belated birthday schawarma, and a day next week, I'll be kicking back with my girlies to celebrate mine, and Julie R's birthdays, so the fun times aren't over, yet :).  A huge THANK YOU to all who sent well wishes, cards, etc....Love you all!!!!!!!!!

So, even though it was a quiet birthday, it was still spent with the important folks in my life, and I appreciate the time and the generosity more than words! Thanks everyone!! xoxoxo.

*Otherwise known as the year I turned 39

Happy Birthday Julie!

She's miles away, but so close in my heart.  She's the brightest smile in any room, and has the biggest laugh that is so contagious.  She's fun; she's caring; she's gorgeous; she's one of my very bestest friends.

Happy, Happy Birthday, Julie!  The pic above is Julie with her two beautiful daughters, Alexa & Sarah.  She's all the way over in the Yukon, and with the time zone, may still be sleeping as I type this.  Julie & I met while working at Southport Pharmacy.  We became fast friends, and were inseparable until she took the plunge with her hubby in hand and set out for the Great White North.  A short hiatus landed them back to the Island, but the pull of the North ached at them soon after, and they've been back there ever since.  It breaks my heart that she's so far away, but we're very fortunate in the fact that she's been able to come 'home' fairly regularly (some day I WILL get to the Yukon to see her -the interwebs as my witness!).

There's a viral friendship quote that has made it's way through FB two or three times over that reads:  "It's been said that everlasting friends can go long periods of time without speaking and never question the friendship. These types of friends pick up like they just spoke yesterday, regardless of how long it has been or how far away they live and they don't hold grudges. They understand that life is busy...but you will ALWAYS love them."  This definition truly defines the friendship I have with Julie.  She's so very special to  me.

Julie, raising a glass to toast your greatness, your smile, and our everlasting friendship!  Wishing you an overabundance of love, gladness, and all things happy today, and throughout the whole year ahead of you.  I can't wait to see you this summer!!  Love you bunches, girlfriend! xoxoxo

It's March 2nd...

...and today we shall eat cake, for it is my Bon Bon's Birthday.  Happy Birthday, to a dear, sweet, awesome, hunky piece of male flesh!

Happy Birthday, Jon!!!!! xoxoxoxo

Happy Birthday Cathy!

A sister is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost.
-- Marion C. Garretty

Today, my big sister rolls over another year on the calendar, and with it, moves into another decade.  I'll not mention what decade, because most ladies prefer to keep that to themselves. Besides, I'm creeping up quickly to my OWN new decade, and well, what's age really, other than a number? ;)

I got into your stuff when you still lived at home.  I probably annoyed you to no end when you had boys over.  There were probably nights when you wanted more to go out with your friends than to stay home and babysit me.   You can make me laugh.  You've made me cry.  You're crazy as the crows, but I love you anyway. Thanks for always putting up with me.  Happy Birthday, Cathy!  Wishing you an overabundance of love and happiness - more than your heart can hold, or stand...xoxo.

Happy Birthday Chris!

Today we celebrate you.

You're my rock.
You're my constant.
You're my person.
You're my irritant.
You're my frustration.
You're my love.
You're my very best friend.

Happy Birthday to you.  Thanks for bein' YOU.  Love you!!  xoxoxo

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.

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

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

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.

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!!!!!!!!!