Required traditional photo

Whenever we three get together we have a photo taken of us indulging in our very traditional glass of wine.  These photos have varied a little over the years, but here we are again.

Ladies luncheon

As part of the anniversary activities, all of the female relatives gathered for a luncheon on December 29th.  There were three generations of descendants of our mother. Individual rings had been made for everyone, from our mother's wedding silver, as a surprise for all.The youngest generation were on their best behaviour, and looked askance as the older relatives got quite silly discussing the behaviour of the owls, who were also in attendance.

Once the ice was broken, and the waitress brought a dish of sliced lemons, the youngest ones took over.

We may think we invented silliness, but obviously we've passed it along to our children.

home again

and nothing has changed.  The cat cries for attention, the dogs try to climb into my lap, Jim is still asleep.Today is all the domestic chores I haven't had to do in days.  I miss you already.

Anniversary gifts

These flowers were a wonderful surprise from my Sister-in-law.  The appearance is different depending on which side you look at.  they are beautiful no matter where you look, and as an aside, I've been looking for a vase like this for a couple of years.  Bonus!

She's Here!

Watch out World.  The McGrath girls are loose in Winnipeg!

On the bus--One more sleep!

According to my information, Beth left North Bay, on the bus, about 10 minutes ago.  Thinking about you Kiddo!

No pictures

but we did salute the family and being apart and together.  We were a couple of minutes late, and all sitting around the living room with tv tables full of food..   There was no way anyone could move to access a suitable glass, but the family was remembered.  We thought of all of you in your own homes, and gave thanks for our pending reunion.

Dinner was at Sheila's home on Churchill Drive, west of Osborne.  Darren and Amber were a little late and not really sure of where they were going, but Loren stood in front of the living room window, cell phone in hand, and guided them in.  They commented about seeing him in the window and realizing that this was the house.  Beth, it made me remember the train trip you took with, I think, both of your boys, but maybe just Will, and us all running out to the deck of the house on Woodside to wave at you, as the train rolled by.

It was a fairly small house--about 1000sq. ft., a bungalow.  She is slowly renovating it to suit herself, and this involves some significant renovations.  But, what I noticed about the neighbourhood was the number of very large homes that have been built there.  True mini-mansions, some of them on Jubilee, where it backs onto the river bank.  Quite a change to the neighbourhood we knew. 

Merry Christmas from Neepawa

Merry Christmas!

Laundry

I don;t remember it as a McGrath Family Tradition, but laundry is on the Agenda for me too.  Jean didn;t need us at the dinner so we are staying here and having a roast chcken and pumpkin pie.  Rrain is coming over in a bit, most likely with her laundry, too.  Sunday is almost here!

Two More sleeps!

Oh Beth, I had to laugh.  Laundry is exactly what we had planned, for today.  Get it all done before the influx!  We are off to Sheila's for dinner today, but not until later.  This year I have done nothing other than supply the turkey and oatmeal.  David was off to the bakery to pick up some shtollen, yesterday, and bought a package of cinnamon buns, as well, so I don't even have to worry about breakfast this morning.

In your packing, would you maybe have a tiny corner of room for the owl templates?  I can't find the original reference, and would like to copy them while you're here.  If not--don't worry about it.  It was just a stray thought.  I must have you on my mind.  I had a strange dream last night.  The post man stopped to tell me that there were sixteen parcels for you waiting for pick up, but no body else but you could pick them up. He wasn't sure that they could be kept until you went for them.  Go figure!

Wonderful Christmas morning.....

...and wonderful greetings to everyone. Have a joyous celebration with family and friends today. Remember the Family Toast at 7 pm my time (6 pm your time). I shall be raising my glass to us all. Mike and Erin are both working but promise to raise a glass once they get home.  Mike will becoming off 5 straight days- 12 hour shifts-  so maybe all he'll be able to do is raise the glass haha!  They head out to Toronto in the morning to visit with her family.
No snow here, so truly a green Christmas. But I checked the Winnipeg and area weather on WFP and see that snow will be greeting me as I head west! Your reports on the blog have kept me up to date with current conditions as well, so no surprises!
Just put a load of wash on - do you think I'm the only person having to do a wash on Christmas morning?  We will head over to the Legion around 11 am for our Christmas Dinner. I'm actually looking forward to the outing. Maybe take my mind off the excitement I feel right now about leaving tomorrow. I have my most favourite Christmas song playing on the computer as I write. Chris Rea - Driving Home for Christmas. Seems most appropriate for this year. 
All for now. If I don't get a chance to write before I leave... I'll leave you with these special few words....see you soon!  XXX

Happy Holidays!

Best wishes to all.  What we have been waiting for for a year is almost here.  I am sooooo excited

Three Sleeps!

I've been thinking about those readers who aren't in Winnipeg, and who will be worrying about whether Beth gets any sleep on the bus. We worry too. So, we will post a special message on the evening of the 27th letting you all know how she got along.

Packing

You just might appreciate the blanket during your travels, even if you have to carry around in a shopping bag.  Do you have some sort of covering that you wouldn't care if you lost during your travels?  Buses are drafty, and it could make the difference between sleeping and not sleeping.

We were able to get out for gas for the snow blower today, and a few groceries.  We've had a lot of snow in the past three days, and it still hasn't stopped falling.  David had to get out and blow part of the front street, so we could get out today.  I know the city will clear it sooner of later, but the street has narrowed by at least six feet, and there is a twit who parks her car right in front of the driveway, every single night, (yes, she has had tickets--doesn't help)  and personnel from the church usually park there during the day.  We were barely back home today, when she was back and parked right in the middle of the area David had blown out.  But we did buy a package of almond tarts for me and a "mickey" of Crown Royal for David, so we are set for today and tomorrow.

On the Bus....

I do not know what shall happen, really!  I guess this will be what's called 'winging it'  I do have a pillow, and up until this week also a blanket but very quickly I am realizing that space will be an issue, so the blanket stays back. As soon as I finish this message I will be taking a look at the clothes I have chosen (at least on my paper list) and seriously deciding what I will bring and what stays home. It depends on how much my ONE suitcase will handle because I am bringing other things as well, and when you look at toiletry articles, shoes, and of course Faith, her nest and spear, there seems little space to spare. However, it remains exciting and I have enjoyed all the time spent basically doing nothing to date - but it's now crunch time !!  The weather has been so unpredictable as well that it has been a bit of a challenge to decide - warm boots/hat/scarf/ winter coat/ mitts....or....lighter apparel. Inevitably, winter will be coming and very likely when I am away, and Winnipeg is already there... right? So I have to be prepared. Anyway, that's what is going on in my world today.....sunny and 10 degrees, with no snow!!   Take care

Four sleeps

Or three sleeps and a lesson on how to try to sleep sitting up, for Beth.  Do you plan to carry a pillow with you, Beth, or just a bottle of little blue "make me sleepy" pills?

I could use a nap myself

It was a late night last night and a very short night as well.  Why?  Because I was reading a book I just couldn't put down.  Four hundred and eighty six pages--of--wait for it--science fiction!  "Saturn Run" by John Sandford and Ctein.  It's been years since I read any science fiction, probably because I have become more interested in characterizations, than vivid imagination.   John Sandford is one of my favourite authours, but his books are more likely police procedurals with weird twists and turns, and featuring fascinating characters.  Well, this book has all sorts of very interesting and well developed characters, and the science was bizarre, but easy to understand.  I enjoyed every minute of it.

Five Sleeps!

or four sleeps and a pretty rough nap for Beth.

Sleeps

I just realized that I will be one sleep ahead of you folks. My number 7 sleep will be on the bus, and you and I know that won't really count as much of a sleep. So lets renumber OK:
 You : 7, Me : 6  Sounds much better from my perspective.
As for your hair Cathy, everyone is going to notice I'm sure. Perhaps comb it a little to the side ??  haha
I had my suitcases out again today, and managed to get a few things organized. Getting a step closer anyway. And I decided to "practice" today. Long ago Harry bought me a box of wine and it has been sitting unopened in the corner - today I broke it open and had a glass. I even sat outside in the situpon and had a few sips thinking about the trip.  
It is raining right now - what ever is going on with this weather? I may have to shovel water before the nights over. The next few days calls for the same mild and wet weather as well.  I guess it really will be a green Christmas.
Time for bed....Take care

Hair cuts!

I didn't get a hair cut.  Can I still come!!

Six Sleeps!

Things happen for a reason...

.......like a  fabulous haircut. A perfect example of how good things happen and at the best of times. Now you can truly relax and enjoy yourself over the next week or two. I was happy to read your blog. It made me feel happy too!  XXX

Getting to the last few chores

Getting my hair cut has had a red flag on my "to do" list. Today, I decided was the day.  About 6 weeks ago I got a haircut, at a different branch of m usual place, and it was the one of the worst ever.  There is one woman I trust with my hair, and today, darned if she wasn't there when I went.  A wonderful surprise.  There were two others waiting for her ahead of me, and another woman ready and able to cut hair, but once I saw Wendy I made the immediate decision to wait.  It took an hour, but one of the best decisions ever.  I told her honestly what had happened, and she told me she could see that there was something wrong while I was sitting waiting. One of the people ahead of me, was there because of the same problem. For quite awhile it was the other customer, and the two hairdressers, and we had quite a chat, especially when it came out that we had both had our hair cut at same place.  As a result, it will be taken further.  I also found out that, if you get a bad haircut, go back right away, and it can probably be fixed.  You don't have to wait for it to grow out.

When I saw how nicely my hair behaved, once she had cut it, I almost cried.  This had been a real problem for me, to the point that I have been avoiding going out, and if I had to go out, made sure to wear a very unflattering hat.  I am so relieved.  It is as if a weight has been taken off my shoulders, and now I can relax and enjoy the holidays.

Seven Sleeps!

Feeling rather special....

Now don't I feel very special reading all about your bedroom preparations - I know, I know, it's "anticipation". And don't I feel a bit anxious to get there now....you said how many sleeps? .....but I'm not sleeping most nights anyway- just laying in bed- I know, I know, it's "anticipation", right?
Today was our Christmas celebration with Mike and Erin, and a wonderful day it was....I'm all wound up right now, so hopefully blogging a bit and then maybe reading a bit might help to settle me before I hit the bed. I received a Zentangle Kit as a gift. A step by step book, a set of tiles, a set of pens and a handmade pouch (Erin's sewing) to hold the pens. I'm all excited - I shall bring it with me on the bus, and then will have it there for some fun one day when we are together. Cathy, I hope you will try it with me as well. Both beginners with our big sister as mentor?? I also received a beautiful shawl/scarf and pair of gloves for my trip. I'm going to look pretty spiffy!
Mike showed me the trailer for Star Wars The Force Awakens.  I was not aware that Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher and Mark Hammell appear in this movie! I said "too bad Harrison Ford wasn't in the movie" and he corrected me and put the trailer on for me to see. Mike goes with his friends tomorrow night to see it (could not get tickets until then) even though it opened Thursday night in North Bay. I guess it is a big hit and making mega bucks according to the reviews I've heard.
Well, I think I'll cut this short and take my new book to bed and have a good look.  In meantime, thinking of you all....take care.

Building a Bedroom for Beth

Yep, that's the task for today.  Wish I'd taken pictures to show you, but that would have meant an extra trip up and down the stairs, so not done.  We now have all of the furniture in place, and are waiting for the laundry to finish so that we can make the bed.  The colour of the duvet is still a shock to the eyes for me.  Hopefully it won't keep you awake at night, Beth.  The old sewing machine makes a fine night table.  ( we did audition a couple of other things)  You have a clock, a lamp, a box of tissue and an extra quilt--just in case.  I've even figured out a way for you to be able to hang up your clothes.

Now to the task of making spaghetti sauce.  In the slow cooker, of course, so that I can afford time to do more interesting things, this afternoon.

.wonderful!

I hope everyone checked out the Google logo today.  Celebrating Beethoven's 245th birthday.  It's a little puzzle but worth completing.  He is doing things with music in his hand, and drops it.  It gets all mixed up and you have to correctly  put it in order.  There are about five sections, but in the end you are treated to a performance of Ode to Joy.

Snow!

Be careful what you wish for!  No more worries about a white Christmas.  Yes, it's been snowing since we got up, large fluffy snowflakes, sometimes coming straight down and sometimes coming down sideways, but never stopping. David is not looking forward to getting the snow blower out tomorrow.  And today was garbage and recycling pick-up.  I certainly felt for the fellows emptying the bins.  Wrapped up in scarves etc and having to work so hard, despite the snow. We haven't been out, but have to get out sometime int he next couple fo days. We'll see what tomorrow brings.

Snow?

We are not of the warning area this time so expect only a dusting if any.  It sure sounds like Winnipeg is going to get it though.We made a quick trip to Winnipeg today.  5 hours in the truck for a 2 hour meeting.  We finally signed the contract that we negotiated a year ago!  And then one person was missing anyway.  Jim drove me again.  I am still quite uncomfortable in this stupid boot and I know I couldn't sit still for that long of a drive.  I was constantly shifting my leg and moving around as he drove.  I find that by the end of the day all I want to do is go home and sit.  No exercise for me for a while. ( aw darn. what a shame )  The trees here have been covered with hoar frost for days.  We ahve had a lot of fog lately and it has settled.  They look beautiful but are starting to bend under the weight.  I got to stay in bed a bit later this morning so decided to take advantage of it.  I lay awake for a long time, but around 6:30 I fell into a real deep sleep.  I woke up at 7 curled up at the foot of the bed and totally disoriented.  I have no idea what I was dreaming of but it must have been real wild one.  Are you going to watch the republican debate tonight?  Do you realise that Donald Trump has over 40% of the republican candidate support!?!  I find that scary.  Glad to be Canadian.

Oh no... a few flurries

Today the temperature went down a bit and we actually had some flurries and a bit of white covering the ground now.  Today we also did some baking. Harry pulls some recipes off the net and I try to make them. Most never turn out. He wanted coconut  macaroons and I made them - mixing coconut and sweet condensed milk and beating eggwhites and folding into mixture , and then made little pyramids of batter onto the cookie sheet. So far so good, and put them into the oven. Then disaster struck. As they started to bake, they separated and the liquid flowed out and surrounded the little mounds. Harry pulled them out and into a bowl and added baking powder and flour, and made little cut cookies. They baked OK but were a bit hard. I covered them with melted chocolate and I guess we'll have to eat them??  Yesterday it was an equally disappointing disaster for me, and I had to try to rectify that today. I guess we'll have to eat that as well. It's OK though, because I have lots of my tried and true recipes that turned out successfully that I shall take up to North Bay for the boys.(New York Slice, and Peanut Butter Butterscotch Marshmallow Squares) I hope that will be all for baking for this year!
I'm all nice a shiny clean ready for my mammogram tomorrow in Huntsville.(No I did not put any deodorant or powder on haha!)
We'll visit the lady and do a bit of shopping before coming home. Thursday I am going to North Bay to do a few chores, and then Sat we go to treat Mike and Erin for lunch. They have chosen Boston Pizza. Have you eaten there?
Well, "beddy bye" time.  I have no books on the go right now having finished my Guardian trilogy last week, and don't wish to start anything new right now so soon before my trip.  I bought my ticket for the journey from Sundridge to North Bay yesterday, so all the arrangements are finalized now. Except, what to bring to wear? I keep changing my mind - not that I have that large a selection from which to chose haha. I'll think of something. Take care.

Recipes

Well, I do not have any recipes from family such as you mentioned, and certainly nothing from Grannie. I am not familiar with Aunty Margaret's vinatarta either, so I shall ask about that when I see you.
How can I forget Madame Benoit. I had the same binder of recipes as Dad did - I think it must have been about 3 or 4 inches think.  I wonder if I got rid of it, or else it is buried somewhere in the basement. It was my bible for any years, but at a quick glance I cannot see it on the shelf with the other cookbooks right now. 
Rain, and drizzle and then more rain have been the order for this weekend. I stayed put mostly - fighting a cold that has me in it's tight grip. But a good excuse to sit and watch some of the Christmas movies I treasure this time of year.  Wednesday we go to Hunstville to visit the fine lady at the Nursing Home, and also for my mammogram appointment at the Hospital. And then Saturday we go to Mike and Erin's for Christmas celebration with them. Before I know it, I will be on the bus. Today I tried on some slacks to get an idea of what to pack. My suitcase space will be limited, so want to bring just what I will need for the special outings, and for our time relaxing at home.
Well, (cough cough cough), it must be time for bed. I'm trying to put it off because trying to lay in bed, and get to sleep, seems to be a real challenge with this cold.  Scooby is acting strange these last two days as if she has something wrong with her rear mobility. If it is not better tomorrow I may have to take her to Vet to have it checked. I hope nothing is really terribly wrong with her - fingers crossed.  Take care

Riding the bus

No, we're not playing "31".  Amber says that if you were dropped off at Deacon's, she could pick you up.  I think she's as far from Deacon's as we are, but it's all highway driving.  However--you sound fine with the bus depot, and we're fighting over who's going to pick you up, so maybe, all's right with the world.

This morning, David and I finished the business of Advance Directives and setting up the ERIK system for Emergency Responders.  I'm exhausted, but this was a process that we started earlier this year, when we saw the lawyer about Power-of-Attorney for both of us.  It needed doing and "tis done.

A friend gave us a small Fruitcake, and then I happened to read a "feel good", fluffy book about fruit cakes.  (Say what--Chocolate fruitcake??)  I had no idea that many families have their own special recipe for it.  I enjoy a fresh, good quality fruit cake, and often, each year, buy a small one just for the two of us.  The friend who gave us the little one ( 4 portions--very tiny) says that she has a square wooden pan she cooks them in, and usually makes two, which she portions out over the Christmas Season.  Each cake uses fourteen pounds of fruit.  I spelled that out so there was no mis-understanding.  Every year she buys 28 pounds of fruit to make her cakes.  Anyway, I have a vague recollection of a fruitcake recipe handed down from Grannie McGrath--in her own writing.  I couldn't find it, but did find a poor photo copy of it--so poor that some of the measurements are missing or illegible.  I doubt it took 21 eggs.  Do either of you have a copy?  Not saying I want to make it, but who knows?  I did find Auntie Margaret's recipe for Vinatarta.  Loren used to make it for us years ago.  I also found a fruitcake recipe attributed to Madams Benoit.  Remember her?

Bus pick up

Oh, Beth, don't worry.  This trip is becoming part of the whole anticipation thing.  We have plotted our route, and know which parking lot to wait in.  we now have people thinking it will be a privilege to be selected to make the trip.

David says that they probably come in around the perimeter ( makes sense!)  The only place they might drop you off is at Deacon's, and that's just as far for us to drive as it is to the airport.

Pick up

I called Greyhound to ask if there were a way I could be let off the bus closer to the core of the city instead of all the way to the Terminal near the Airport.  And thinking the bus is likely to come in on #1, and over to Portage Ave perhaps, I even thought if they could open the doors and let me off say near, or at Fermor and Lagidmodiere.....? Of course, the answer was No. 
So it appears there will be no easy way to retrieve me short of coming to the Terminal. Sorry folks.

re: Visits

That's about what I had figured, Cathy.  Our next decision will be who goes to pick up Beth.  We made a dry run out to the airport.  (For some reason the airport is considered a campus, and when you try to Google it, you get all sorts of information and maps related to university and collage campuses from all over North America.  Go figure!)  Anyway, we now  know where to go and when, but the question is "who".    We'll sort it out.  

I have no idea what the two words you used mean, but I get the idea that you are doing a general clean-up--just as I am around here. All I can say is " Expect lots of dust!"  Allergy alert!

Loren was over for few minutes last evening, so that we could familiarize him with our Power-of-Attorney documents, since he is part of both of them.  We also reviewed my Advance Directive, and he now has a copy of it, ( as well as copies of the POA documents).  He brought us information on the ERIK program.  This is an Emergency Response Information Kit, that is kept on the front of the fridge and contains emergency information and contacts, as well as a copy of the Advance Directive.  It is then available to any emergency response personnel who might come to the house and need the info.  Loren says this can be invaluable to responders, in helping them know how far to go, should there be any question.  Makes sense to me!

Visits

As far as I know we are arriving on the afternoon of the 27th and leaving on the afternoon of the A30th.  Of course I could be wrong :)  We finally have snow here.  I couldn't find our weather forecast but it seems the environment canada in its wisdom has decided that since the rms of North Cypress & Langford have consolidated they will now give us our forecast out of Brandon-Carberry.  Both of them south of # 1 and us at #16.  So, needless to say we were not included in the special snow advisory that was issued for what we thought was our area.  I will have to go back to the tried and true method of looking out the window.  I think I will still refer to the old forecast area cause after all these years we have been able to predict what our weather will be by understanding how the weather usually moves around us.  Maybe we can learn our new forecast area but it makes no sense right now.Back to work.  We are having a Kaisan and a Kanban this week.  (Welcome to the world of private industry)  I am not on the main team but I get to take part if there is not much office work.  Yesterday we emptied out what we call the old system vault and made 3 piles.  Needed here, Needed,but not here and not needed.  Then we dusted washed the surfaces.  I guess today things go back in their new logical homes.  Overtime we are supposed to do this to the entire office.  I dread entering Elisabeth's office.  Mine will be hard enough.  Today I sit in my office and watch the others hustle about.  My leg gets pretty sore by the end of the day so I am going to try to behave. (Never happen :))

Love the mouse!

Hope you find your way around the new computer programs without too much difficulty.  I know you will as you are good at that.  You wouldn't lose any info though in changing computers would you?
As for visiting, I made it clear in my message. I care not to flit about. I wish to be with you folks and enjoy my family. And Cathy will be there on 30th as well, right Cathy? When did you have to leave?  
So thanks for the offer Pati, and I appreciate your thinking about it, but I am very content with my plans as they are now. XXX

Changes here

Today the fellow came to set up the new computer.  It came with Windows 10, and there had been a fair bit of apprehension, but things seem to be fairly easy to  get into.  I'll have to play with some of the actual programs, as we had to replace my Microsoft office, which includes both Word and Excell, and I know there will be differences.  But the fellow said that it's the same Word program as is on David's computer, and I've been using that for awhile--still finding my way around though.

I even get to use my "foxy" mouse.  David wouldn't let me have it until today.

We spent yesterday finishing our Christmas shopping, and while we were out I bought a small gift for myself ( the computer is supposed to be my Christmas gift).  Four good quality biscuit cutters.  I have wanted, at least, one of these for ages.  These come as a set.  I have been playing with them ever since.  I take them out of the box and fondle them, and then put them back in.  Good, strong stainless steel--and dishwasher safe! Now I need an excuse to cook biscuits or Imperial  cookies.

Tomorrow I have  a luncheon with my "Tuesday Stitchers", but otherwise, plan to spend the rest of the day wrapping gifts, although, this year, there will probably be more envelopes than parcels.

Beth, at this point, we have nothing planned for the 30th, or during the day of the 31st.  If you wanted to get together with your friend, I would be glad to drive you anywhere you wanted to go.

Fresh bread

Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread. Just took a loaf out of the bread machine. And then cooked a pot of Red River cereal. This I shall enjoy for breakfast tomorrow morning.  In the morning I always have an urge for porridge or hot cereal and never want to actually cook it then. So I usually just have a quick toasted bagel or raisin bread.  So now I have no excuse not to enjoy my Red River cereal. Just heat and eat - quick ! 
Yesterday my friend Cheryl called from Winnipeg. This is the couple who cruised around the world and then sold their house in Petawawa and moved to Winnipeg end of April.  She invited me to have dinner at their place on Dec 29 - they would be celebrating their oldest son's birthday - he lives in Headingly.  I declined of course, saying my time in Winnipeg was limited and I intended to spend it all with my family. She accepts this but says if there were any time to meet for a coffee or lunch to let her know. I will definitely give her a call while I'm there but do not intend to gallivant about. So be warned , my time will be spent solely with you - if you tire of me you can confine me to the basement for a time out haha.
How goes it with you folks?  Slight bit of drizzle today but still wonderful weather. 

Another step closer....

Got my hair cut this morning - really short - maybe too short!  I only have two weeks for it to grow in a bit. Oh no!  Look for a bald, tired, old woman at the bus terminal.
I logged onto WPF web site as I always do in the morning, and this morning watched the video they have posted of Clear Lake. Apparently a phenomenon as the ice has covered the lake but with no snow, it is just a thick layer of ice covering the entire Lake, and you can see right through to the bottom - even fish swimming, and with people skating on the surface. It is worth watching - give it a go....but Cathy, don't you head up to go skating.  Take care

Don't you hate it when the doctor is right!

He  told me to limit my walking for a month and when I did walk to walk "flat footed"  Well I was feeling pretty good on Saturday and decided it wouldn't hurt to do a little extra.  Yeah, right. I didn't leave the house on Sunday.  I guess I am one of those people that have to have proof.  I know it was my fault and have learned my lesson.  So for the next while it will be drive to work and drive home and if I have to go to the bank or drugstore I drive. Which makes me feel really silly since If it wasn't for Yellowhead Manor I could see both places from the office  I just kinda wish I could walk more balanced since my entire body is sore since I am walking so lopsided.  I 'll get used to it.  It's a bit early in the morning for a glass of  "Whine" but who better to vent to but your sisters.  Getting Close!

Me, too!

Amazing but true......our weather has been similar. Yesterday high was 5 degrees with sun. No snow (some still in ditches from our first real deluge a week or so ago) Now forecasting drizzle for tonight and maybe some snow tomorrow(?) but still it is nice warmish temperatures for this time of year.
So I guess you are really going to BBQ for supper Cathy? Will you have you deck table and chairs out haha!  I can visualize you sitting out on your deck enjoying the day. Of course you will be sitting with your feet up right! 
We won't be doing the same here, but most probably I shall be wrapping a few gifts. Thursday we go to North Bay to see a concert of The Barra McNeills Harry won tickets on the radio. 
Up early this morning to enjoy my coffee sitting on the chesterfield looking at my Christmas lights. This year it is a mere string of red cardinal lights draped over some pictures on the wall. No tree this year but still I am pretending and enjoying what I have. I put on the Christmas video of a roaring fire and relax (if even for a few quiet moments haha)
Enjoy the fine weather and try to keep the same for end of December OK?  Take care

December 5

and I wore my hoodie and I was warm outside  

sometimes ya gotta wonder......

I have no idea what will happen with my job now.  I don't really care.  It was just getting recognition for the job I am already doing, except that I would be able to complete it instead of passing it on to Elisabeth to accept.  As for Christmas.... I can pick up stuff when i come in for the big event.  I am not skipping that.  At this point Kris & family will be in for supper on the 28th and I can give Chloe her presents then.  She won't know.  I have been trying to walk flat footed, but I find it makes my entire body hurt.  Only 2 1/2 months to go. :(   At least it is the weekend now !!!!  And the weather!  Sorry Beth, but it is beautiful here.  We are bbqing steak on Sunday.  I appreciate not having lots of ice and snow with the boot, cause by the time it comes I will be experienced walking.  I'm counting sleeps

Set Back, again!

 As I said in  previous post--"old age is a bitch!"  I think that originally came from Bette Davis.  I agree with Beth.  This is a time to sit back and chant the Serenity Prayer",  ending each recitation with a hearty "Damn It!"  But I echo Beth's question--is this just a postponement of your promotion, or is it at serious risk?

We have talked about it, and there is just no way we can afford a trip to Neepawa this month.  But, if Rrain is coming in every week or so, we would be willing and able to meet her anywhere in the city to pass along the mouse and chair.  We would just have to arrange a meeting place and time.

This can't be pleasant for you.....

Is it just a postponement of your work course scheduled for Wpg, or is this now up in the air?  Are you noticing any difference wearing your boot? I guess we won't be able to dance much together during the holidays haha!  So that leaves sitting in easy chairs and toasting to the celebrations - that should be fun!  Let us know how you are getting on OK- keep us updated. Take care

Quick note

I won't be in Winnipeg next week.  I saw the doctor today and while he didn't say I couldn't go he did say he would "recommend" that I didn't go.  He wants me to limit my walking and felt walking down Portage avenue might not be a good idea right now.  I have to keep the walking boot on for 3 months.  For December I should walk "flat footed" when I do walk. Maybe in January I can try for a more normal motion as I walk, but still with the boot on.  And no, I can't cheat and use a wrap on my foot when I am at home.  The only time the boot comes off is when I am in bed or the bath. So,  I guess my plans have changed.  This too shall pass.

Shopping as well.....

Yesterday was my shopping day with Mike, and I had been looking forward to it.  I was at his place for 9 am as arranged. Fortunately the weather and road conditions were not a factor which often is a deterrent for driving to North Bay in "winter". Erin was not working and feeling a bit left out ( Mike plan was, after all, shopping for her) so we had a coffee and chat there before heading out to the Mall!  It was quite busy and so many people rushing about. No wonder one is hesitant to join the fray at Christmas time haha  We had a good day and accomplished most of what we wanted and then over to Fabricland on the other side of the city to finish. I think I told you that Erin has taken an interest in sewing and in fact I was able to see some of her decorating in the apartment - and handbags she has already fashioned. So some of her gifts are related to encouraging that interest.(I bought her a gift certificate at Fabricland so she can choose her own fabric.)
On Wednesday we are going to visit the lady Phyllis in Huntsville and intend to shop for Mike then. I got a few ideas from him just in passing while we were together.
I do not see why we must feel guilty about our treats. I do not know what Dr Phil's book is suggesting, but I hope you get a few ideas. Sometimes it is just sticking to a game plan, even if it does include chocolate cake for dessert. Right now with all our baking I have indulged myself as well. Harry made more cookies yesterday while I was out.  Today I shall make Rice Krispie squares and then that's all the baking needed. Harry likes them and I have the ingredients in the cupboard so it won't be a chore.
So here's to another day...and it is officially now December. Time is drawing near folks......Cathy when can we also officially start to count sleeps? Take care