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Daily or Day Old, It's a Quote!

I want to write, but more than that I want to bring out all kinds of things that lie buried in my heart. -Anne Frank

*this came from La La

 

April 26, 2010

Still having lots of logistical issues with the blog. A combo of old web software manipulated for my MAC and no time to learn something new...sigh....it did seem easier to get on this time so I will try to 'eat my bran' and be more regular.

 

Nan & Lo circa 'groovy 70's'

Having lost my parents at a very young age, Nan became like a parent. She bragged about me to anyone who would listen (sorry everyone) and she thought I was wonderful AND told me so. This was rare in my life at the time. She died very suddenly when I was about to turn 26 and she 66. We were 40 years apart in age. We were so close. WE shared so much-good and bad. She was my number 1 fan. Everyone needs a number 1 fan. I know she still is-just from farther away now!

Cheers Nan!

 

March 7, 2010

A luck number for some. Not for me.

Really wondering if life here is really my purgatory....Some days more than others. Did it start shortly after birth? Am I paying now for all my bad?

Time will tell. Waiting for a rainbow.

 

February 2010

If I don't write about it - it doesn't happen right?

 

January 26, 2010

Do you ever feel 'in between?'

This is how I feel lately. It's not a bad feeling but it is thought provoking, dream making and sleep depriving at times.

So, that's where I've been lately-in between:)

Happy New Year late!

 

December 18, 2009

I will be away on a tropical island somewhere for the next little while. Well, not a tropical island but I am going away somewhere where the wind doesn't chill and the white stuff doesn't land. Some family holiday time!

And so I wish you a Merry Christmas and a spectacular start to 2010!

See you then!

 

December 17, 1949

Stormy and twisting. Born into hope before despair. A Christmas 'Carol' is born. I just want to say that timing is often everything (right Carrie?). I received some very special mail today and the timing was perfect! It must have been planned!

 

December 15, 2009

It's not perfect, this site, like most things. But if I wait for it to be perfect, it will never really 'be' again and so I trudge forward with all of it's shortcomings and inadequacies and hope I can move forward and improve as I go and not be too hard on myself. Oh, I am talking about my blog....not necessarily life, friendships and certainly not about my own writing-my 'book' writing.

 

I'm learning to let more go, to enjoy more process and to not have everything have to be perfect. Some of this is just me growing up a teeny tiny bit and some of it is due to my new every day pursuit-some may call it a job or a career. All I know is that I happened upon it, somewhat by accident.  But really, are there accidents like this or is it all just meant to be? Time will be the teller of that.

 

I'm battling a loss right now. Not a physical loss as in something misplaced or stolen but more an emotional one in the form of a friendship and while I it makes me sad, it is also just the way it has to be right now-I think. Only time will tell right?

 

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Well, 13 is my favourite number so it is only fitting that I resurrect my site on the 13th! I have a zillion reasons/excuses as to why I have been ignoring my site but they are just that, excuses and silly reasons...a zillion of them.

So, I'm back and have lots to say but right now I have to go hide some gifts I just bought and put my new and fave ice cream in the freezer. Ben and Jerry's 'If I had a Million Flavours.' IT   IS      SO     GOOD!

 

 

Friday, August 26, 1994   12:04 A.M.

 

'Friday's Child is loving and giving.'

 

The day, August 25th, started with excitement and anticipation and a little fear as we headed to the hospital for the ride of a life time. Excitement to finally meet the baby that helped me gain 60 pounds during pregnancy and natural fear of the unknown intricacies of childbirth! The day turned rainy outside and a bit stormy inside and out as you didn't seem to WANT to be born. You were already very late, with an original due date of August 11 so really, it was time to make an entrance. Finally. Finally, squeaking in just past midnight during a summer storm, my 'one in a million' (that is what your name means) was born. Just over 10 pds and 22 inches long- a big boy for sure! Now you are 15 and almost 75 inches tall and I must tilt my head up to look into your eyes. Happy Birthday Max, you truly are one in a million!

 

August 16, 2009

What is love? This is.

Nie Nie

 

August 11, 2009

Just watched 'A Boy Interrupted' on HBO.  This is a documentary by the parents of Evan Scott Perry (1990-2005). Gripping, heart wrenching, surreal, painful, moments of joy, tons of dark. Very real. Very heavy. A story needed to be told. Thank you to his parents for sharing it.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/penelope-andrew/evans-excruciating-choice_b_249344.html

 

August 11, 2009

'Sun Maid' Excerpt

 

There is shouting and my Mommy is picking me up from the couch. I think it’s morning as it is no longer dark outside. The other Mommy is telling my Mommy something but my Mommy is just yelling and crying, the eyeliner she had so carefully applied earlier in the evening, streaming down her face, making her look a bit scary and fragile at the same time. The other Mommy picks up the phone and my Mommy runs out of the apartment, dragging me with her. I am glad to see her but am worried because she seems so upset and she is hurting my arm. I hope that things will be better when we get into our room but we don’t go there. I’m surprised when Mommy heads out to the street, holding me with one hand and carrying a little green suitcase with the other.

 

August 9, 2009

'Cruel Intentions' Excerpt

“Ha, ha, your mother’s dead. Ha, ha, your father’s dead.”
I’m across the street at the neighbour’s house and we’re skating around the rink in her backyard. Her dad worked really hard getting the rink just right. Daphne is a figure skater and her dad wanted her to have somewhere to practice at home. I loved going over there. Like many things over at our house, I had started figure skating but several lessons later and it was time to pay for lessons and earned badges and well, um, that just didn’t happen and my figure skating days were over.
So here we are, at Daphne’s house, skating around the rink, our breath showing itself in the air as we giggled, proving it was a cold day, until we are interrupted by the boy next door. He’s just awful and everyone knows it except his own parents. They refuse to belief that their son does the awful things he does in the neighbourhood. Well, there he is at the window looking down at us and taunting, “Ha, ha your mother’s dead. Ha, ha your father’s dead.” I try to ignore it. Really, I do. But my chest tightens and my jaw sets hard. I’m gritting my teeth, cutting into the ice harder and harder with my skate blade and trying not to cry and wishing it was too cold for the tears to fall but it isn’t and they do.
Daphne looks up at him and tells him to shut up but that does nothing. He continues his evil tirade and so we leave and go inside and while I am taking off my skates I hear murmuring and before I know it, Daphne’s mom has set out a plate of cookies and is preparing hot chocolate. Usually I look forward to this but today I am heavy even after I take off my wet socks, snow pants and mitts. I am thawed out and raw. Numb would be better right now I think.
 

 

Aug 8, 2009

Thinking about how I want to 'use' this site. It's time for an update of sorts but lack of time and desire over the summer has left me thinking. Thinking about the unscheduled break in writing that often leaves me cranky but I don't realize it right away.

So, for now I am going back to writing and posting raw and mostly unedited passages that I am working on.

For now anyways:)

 

July 13, 2009

Lots going on. All good. Birthdays and weddings and summer time stuff (minus the weather as the weather has been more fall like around here).

I'm thinking of changing my site. It's time and I know what I want to do but need time and some know all as this site may look pretty but it's put together with tape and paperclips-seriously!

I'll post some pics of what I've been up to but right now I must go teach a yoga class!

 

 

June 23, 2009

These days I'm trying very hard to fit myself into a 3 by 3 photo. The memories, the nostalgia, the SIMPLICITY of certain times gone by. When the biggest worry of a hazy summer day was getting the ice cream home from the grocery store before it melted. The DAZE of no air conditioning and a summer pool pass was your heart's desire and guarantee of a blessed summer of fun and coolness in more ways than one. Really, the only thing that topped that was a dime. Endless possibilities with that dime. A bag of penny candy, a frozen lola that you would balance while riding your bike down the hill from the store, looking for that perfect patch of grass to lie on. To lie on with friends and for hours and hours. Oh the plans we made, the things we did, the places we went.

Nan, Lo and Uncle Buddy in background.

 

June 21, 2009

Painter, music lover, roller skater, fisherman, philosopher, peacemaker, dreamer, lover of the colour purple.

 

 

June 7, 2009

Creative, witty, beautiful, full of imagination. The possibilities are endless!

 

June 7, 2000

On this day you were born. The day started well and only got better later on when you were born at 8:20 p.m. It truly was an all day affair 'getting  you born." I was sure you were a boy-a brother for your brother and was VERY happy and surprised that you were a girl. I think one of the first things I said after you were born and Daddy convinced me that you were indeed a girl was something like, "someone else to read my Nancy Drews!" It was an extraordinary moment when you were born and the journey continues. I love you and can't imagine life without you.

 

May 31, 2009

On May 31, 1927 someone who would play a huge and VERY important  role in my life, was born. Gloria Elizabeth was her name (we all carry the Elizabeth somewhere in our names in this family). She was my grandmother and I called her Nanny (Nan when I was older). Her daughter,  my mother, had me very young and because of that, my Nan could have passed for being my mother. We were 40 years apart in age. She was different things to me at different times in my life but most of all, she was my saviour. She saved and protected me from so much. Her life was not always easy and she fought for everything she had and she cried for all that she lost. On April 27, 1993, she died and I cried. My number one cheerleader and my last matriarchal connection. My number one fan and I was hers. 66 years young. Two peas in a pod. Two redheads. Two chocoholics. Two sets of freckles. Two sets of laughs. Two hearts connected forever.

 

May 22, 2009

 Speechless....

 

May 10, 2009 aka Mother's Day

I have lots to catch up on but for now I am out and out stealing this from Carrie as it really makes me think.

 

"Nearly all of us receive our first lessons in peaceful living from our mothers, because the need for love lies at the very foundation of human existence. From the earliest stages of our growth, we are completely dependent on our mother's care and it is very important for us that she expresses her love. If children do not receive proper affection, in later life they will often find it hard to love others." H.H. The Dalai Lama

 

April 19, 2009

I'm on my way to see my California BFF!!!! The 'shits and giggles' will be plentiful I can tell you that for sure!

my birthday party in Las Vegas almost 2 years ago (hubby's bday too!)

I've been meaning  to post for the past few days but fairies, trolls and pixies kept getting in my way.....

Tomorrow I'm leaving for California for a week and to say I am looking forward to it would be an understatement. I received the coveted call today that confirmed that I will step on to that plane tomorrow morning. "It's 99 F right now." Yippee!

It's been a very LONG winter and my winter trip was delayed. It didn't happen in February (the longest shortest month) and it didn't happen in March. In the end the April timing is working out for the best because we are going to DWTS (Dancing with the Stars for those that 'don't watch t.v') on Tuesday and by limo (that's an event in itself) on Wednesday to see the Go Go's (the 80's Girl band that play their own instruments, write their own songs and sing live-a rarity these days). In between all of this there will be too many laughs-like pee your pants laughing, lots of cocktails, roadside pit stops (some planned and some, not so much), shopping, gawking and stalking and more I am sure. Will keep you posted thru photos-especially on facebook 'cause you all know how a picture says a thousand words."

It's a short but sweet visit with Sandi this time because you know, this trip wasn't really THAT planned. It went kinda like, oh Belinda Carlisle is going to be on DWTS. OH, maybe the band will do a concert while she's here (she lives in France) and then oh, they've announced some gigs in California. Oh, okay, I'm going to buy a plane ticket even though we both have so much going on. Then, oh, I can also visit LA LA in the Pasadena too. And then oh, this is all working out so well. So, tomorrow a.m. I will get on a plane (Executive Class thanks to hubby-I heart you Jo) and be wined and dined and movied all the way to L.A. Then some DWTS wardrobe shopping at Anthropologie and some dinner and then later at home (my California home) some of Cheryl's famous cheese popcorn and hopefully some trashy reality t.v.!!!!!! Gosh, before I know it Friday will be here and La La will come and pick me up and whisk me off to the beach for some walking and people watching and we will spend a fun-filled weekend of shopping, talking, hoteling and more!!!  C A N   N O T   W A I T!!!!

 

Thanks Rob. I wouldn't know Sandi if not for you (and then I wouldn't be visiting La La 'live' either)

 

Rob & Lola @ his wedding in NYC July 2005

 

 

And I leave you this random photo and quote.

 

April 13, 2009

It will be a busy week which makes me appreciate this luxurious 4 day loonnngggg weekend even more. It's been a simple weekend over here. Just the way it should be. I think, just the way 'the Gods' would want it to be. No, I didn't go to mass.....but I did spend lots of family time and I rested my weary spirit. There has been lots of sun. This is the first Good Friday in forever that I can remember that the sky didn't sing grey and spew rain all day. That alone was a reason to celebrate- a weekend of celebration. Of and for whatever you believe in-God, a God, family or believing not to believe. No matter what, believing is important. Sometimes I think it's the base that keeps us going. It fills up our tank when it is so empty and the thought of filling it up, so unbearable at times. So we reach out to our belief. Our belief that things get better in a world with so much suffering and bad news and sadness. So we believe to feel better and to have hope and to turn it around and be positive-to draw strength and to celebrate. To celebrate the small things instead of sweating them as the world is full of much bigger things that will need our worry later.

I am trying to find the good in the face of so much bad news around me (not about me but of those I love and care about). So many crosses to bare, so much tragedy.....So when we can, let's celebrate.

Thinking of all of  you.

 

April 7, 2009

Have you ever wanted or needed a 'do over' day? I need a 'do over' day for today!

 

April 6, 2009

My achy breaky back is mostly all better like buttah and I mostly have my hubby to thank. He totally picked up the slack so I could get better! This was a big stress reliever and now I am 98% better. Thankfully as I  have a busy two weeks ahead of me AND 2 Mondays from today I will be on a plane to California to see a bestest friend and the Go Go's (among other things). In the mean time there are clients to see, courses to study, Easter egg hunts to participate in and snow to shovel..sigh. It is really snowing here right now.

See

 

Oh, and this pic is for Sandi in California 'cause as you all know, a picture says a thousand words! Ah memories.......

 

 

April 1, 2009

I am lacking the usual 'spring in my step' that accompanies this time of year. I'm trying to figure out if I am experiencing a 'disconnect' or a 'discontent.' In the meantime I am plugging away, keeping my mouth closed a bit more often and observing all around me.

 

March 25, 2009

This spring break has been great-void of regular routine and all-I love that! BUT there is no spring weather along with it..... and so I wait........for more than spring weather right now.

 

 

March 22, 2009

 

"we both want to have babies
while it's still cool. i already have
all the names picked out. if it's a
girl, Bookcase... or Sandstorm...
or maybe Hat, but that's more of
a boy's name."

--30 Rock

 

March 24, 2009

What was that? I heard the whisper-I didn't HEAR the content but I did hear the whisper. This can be unsettling. Did I miss a good whisper? Did I  miss a 'bad' whisper that was better off not knowing anyways.....

Well, either way, it's been a whisper around here. Too much going on and not enough time to say it so there has been whispering. Whispering can be good and that is how I am looking at it. It's been more than a week of retrospect and introspect - is that even possible? What I mean, I think, is that I have experienced a lot of one on one time-with myself, these past few weeks and overall, I think it's been good. The whispering in my own head has become loud and clear and now it's time to ACT upon it no matter what!

 

March 17, 2009  aka St Patrick's Day aka My national  holiday aka Can't celebrate and go to the pub today day...sigh.

Yesterday I cried like I haven't cried in a long time. It was a serious matter. I felt like I was 15 again and right back in the middle of Mr. Kriez's grade 10 math class. Yeah, math can make me cry......especially when it comes to letters of the alphabet and unknowns. I mean come on, it's probably unknown for a reason! Did anyone ever think of that!?!?!?! Math is black and white. I am not black and white. Math follows a lot of rules. I am not a huge rule follower. I like to change them when they don't suit me, aren't working or I just don't like them. Hence, math is a problem. I can talk my way out of a paper bag, I like to write and can prove my point furiously during a debate. But math, well, let's just say it's not my cup of tea. Hell, it's not even on the menu at Starbucks.

So, here I sit, on my national holiday, doing math. It's a new day for smiles and no more tears. I will conquer compounding. I will. (Why did I decide to take this course anyways?).

 

Friday the 13th

My FAVE DAY!

 

March 11, 2009

Did you know that GOOD friendship is GOOD for the HEART?!

I'm just saying........:)

 

 

 

 

March 8, 2009

Playing with Mac Photo Booth! Can you figure out this puzzle?

 

March 7, 2009

I will see the light. It's been a long month (Feb) and it snuck into March a bit but thankfully, Daylight savings is on the way tonight and the sun will shine brightly. It's gonna be a bright, bright, bright, sunshiny day.:)

 

March 2, 2009

Daughters are for keeps.

 

February 28, 2009

RIP Lisa Kelly - I didn't 'know' her like I know some but I followed her blog and her trials and her tribulations. Her honesty, her sense of humour, her humanity, her strength.

 

 

http://clusterfook.com

 

February 28, 2008

Cool store in Holland somewhere I think. Hubby sent it. Oh yeah, he is finally coming home for at least a few days!!!!! TODAY!!!

 

OOOOhhhhhh! I can almost taste March and all it will bring. Sometimes an early Easter (not this year) and for sure it brings more light which we desperately crave over here in the 'great' white north. Thank you for daylight savings time. I'll take the extra hour and bump you one!

I feel the urge to spring clean even though it's not spring. AND, I said I feel the urge. Urge means nothing if you don't do anything......Think about that while I go make some cinnamon buns........

 

February 27, 2009

Today's weather forecast in my hair (before the rain turned into ice and most people couldn't make it up their driveways and the temperature went down 10 degrees in one hour).

 

February 26, 2009

Today's weather forecast can be seen in my hair! I'm trying for 'serious' face:)

 

February 25, 2009

It's a slow day here at Lo La land. Too much swirling in my head today!

I leave you with this. Does anyone what to join me for cocktails?

 

http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=119943080316&h=oOjDU&u=rjE6Z

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vXRf5HXJmU

February 21, 2009

Someone pass me some lip balm stat! It's a busy time here at Lo La land. Nothing really exciting (trip to Cali to see Sandi, She La La and The Go Go's not included) just everyday stuff. Add that to the fact that it is February (again I remind you it's the longest shortest month evah) and the snow and wind-chill won't go away and I am tempted daily to just stay under my rock from sunrise til sunset (not really all the time but I thought that implied some extra drama which would make this more dramatic to read, no?).

But no! There is soccer to go to and art class to drive to and playdates and movie dates and sleepovers. Gosh, I cannot wait until it's my turn:) IN the meantime I will daydream about my April California trip and start scheming about my 3 days in Toronto in March when my traveling hubby gets home after almost a month away-yeah, the longest, shortest month!

Big call out to the relatives in Berlin, Germany! Danke for reading!

 

February 19, 2009

Welcome to Canada Barack Obama!

 

February 17, 2009

I'm gonna 'Go Go' to Cali in April and this, my dear friends, is the light at the end of this winter tunnel that I have been looking for! Details shortly!!!! But for now I say this "WHOOT!"

 

February 14, 2009

Happy Heart Day!

 

Friday, February 13, 2009

I stopped by Michelle O'Neil's blog, Full Soul Ahead! http://www.michelleoneilwrites.blogspot.com and saw she was sharing the spotlight with her fellow bloggers by the use of a ME interview (like a MEME.) She answered a handful of random questions about herself and then offered to interview others with new sets of questions.

So, if you're interested in joining the fun, comment (comment bar is at the top) and say, "Interview me". I'll email you the questions to post on your blog along with the instructions to keep it going by interviewing others.

Here are your interview questions:

1) What would be your dream writing project?
A Short Story Trilogy

2) What are you working on presently?

My memoir as told through 'shorts' - very short stories.

3) Where did the name "Lola" come from?
Some of my friends call me 'LO' and my initials are 'LA' so put the two together and you get 'Lola.' Oh, and I'm suppose to mention that it's a California thing as it's my Cali friends that really made LOLA stick. Sigh, I love my Cali friends.....

4) What writing rituals do you have?
MUZAK playing

A tidy desk

A Starbucks in the daytime

Sometimes a cocktail in the nighttime

5) Do you resent us in the U.S. for not knowing squat about Canadian geography?

I do find it a bit tiring at times.....It's part of the school curriculum here-to know about American geography and history. I think it's kinda funny. I get this a lot:

Them: "So, where to you live?"

Me: "Ottawa, Ontario Canada."

Them: Canada? Wow! Do you know my aunt in Saskatchewan? If I give you some jam, can you drop it off to her?

Me: "Absolutely. I will probably see her at the market next week." (huge eye roll)

Them: "Do you ever wear those red coats?"

Me: "No, they are a special dress uniform for our Mounted Police."

Them: "Do they ride horses through the neighbourhood?"

Me: "Of course!" (Sarcasm is a cool coping device)

Them: "Can I see your coloured money?"

Them: "Canada- I love British Columbia."

Me: "Me too even though I've never been there."

Them: "Why don't you have a President?"

Me: "Well, we have something similar. We have a Prime Minister as the head of our country."

Them: "What's that? And anyways, I thought we ran Canada."

Me: SIGH

Them: "Do you find learning Spanish difficult?"

Me: "We learn French here. It's one of our official languages."

Them: "Why?"

 

February 10, 2009

Snow Day so no time to post. More specifically, ice pellet day! Either way, no school and a full day in PJ's!

Note-ice pellets never arrived....bus company people in trouble!

 

February 9, 2009

 

February 8, 2009

Well, I do declare! Finally! Finally I am able to get 'in' my website after many, many days of being shut out...I'm not sure why or what and my 'go to guy' aka hubby, was gallivanting across and around the North America.......

It must of been a sign. A sign that my week was to be occupied by many and other things.......That's how I'm looking at it. Instead of getting frustrated and mad and throwing my shiny MAC out the window (laptops make that VERY easy), I took it in stride! Trying to do that more-take it in stride. It is a work in progress....

 

I have a lot to say but little time so I will leave you with this. It humbles me so much.

http://www.nieniedialogues.blogspot.com

 

January 30, 2009

I had a different topic in mind today but while collecting some papers from the printer, I came across this (names have been changed to protect the innocent)

It's priceless:)

 

Contract

Circle or do the following questions.

Will you sit with me on the end of year field trip?  YES      NO

You will only do your mad face when we are not going to be friends? YES     NO

Let me help you with your book?  YES    NO

Tell me how you feel when someone hurts your or your feelings?  YES     NO

Be in my movie or band?  YES     NO

Tell  _________ (insert name here) that you are sitting with me on the end of year field trip?  YES       NO

 

X______________

Insert name here

Best Friend Forever                       Sign this pleas then keep going on!

 

Who is your Best Friend Forever? ______________________

 

X______________________

Your BFF

Best Friend Forever                      Make your BFF to sign this.

 

Second Contract so far.

 

Sign it then give it to me!

 

Sincerely,

Insert Name Here                /  (X+a)n= (nk)xkan-k

 

January 29, 2009

Unnecessary Purchases

We all make them.

For differing reasons.

I made a January goal ( I will be making one every month) and I achieved it.

It was an idea I took from some Mommy Bloggers. I had read about it last year at about the same time. It's all about being more conscious about how, what and why we spend. I decided that I would do it this January even though I don't 'do' rules very well. Diets, resolutions etc are just lost on me. As soon as I can't have it, I want it even more. To get around this I am usually sneaky with myself and tell myself that I will for example, cut down on carbs but not try to totally eliminate them. Or, I will cut down on night time snacks ( a fave pastime of mine:) but NOT eliminate them. Sometimes this trick works and I actually do cut something out totally but success is usually determined by the level of trickery.

But in the case of not making any unnecessary purchases, I made the commitment, originally for 2 weeks and then 4 weeks (oh, yeah, I guess that is a bit of a trick) and I told lots of people about it.

Things I learned from this experience-it wasn't really that hard and I love a sale and I love to shop (not for groceries). After the first few days it was actually easy and today ( I started this right after Xmas so my 4 weeks ended Jan 26) hubby and I went to the mall as he needed jeans and honestly, when we went to Banana Republic, several of the staff, including management, came over to see me and ask what trip I had been on....It was both a funny, inspiring and almost embarrassing moment:) At least I know I was missed somewhere!

Anyways, I did it and even today, while I saw lots of pretty things and things I would like, I just didn't feel the need to buy any 'things' today and it felt good.

 

Ed Note-Hubby did find a $75 ring at Banana marked down to $11 and he bought it for me-a small reward.!

 

Coming soon-February's Project. Won't you play along?

 

January 27, 2009

RIP John Updike

 

January 26, 2009

Are you thankful today? Read this and then do something good:) This is an update about Stephanie Nielson aka Nie Nie. I have her button and her sister's button over there, yeah, a bit more over to the right. C Jane and Nie Nie. Nie was in a tremendous accident with her husband, in an airplane. The pilot died and Mr. Nielson was burned over 30 % of his body and slept (coma) for awhile. Nie Nie was burned over 80% of her body and slept (coma) for 5 plus months. Some would say she isn't supposed to be 'here.' I say, she isn't supposed to not be here.

http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/arizonaliving/articles/2009/01/26/20090126Stephanie0126.html

 

January 25, 2009

A picture says a thousand words! As promised here are some pics from the big cut:)

BEFORE-long, long hair since forever!

 

A good 10 plus inches for wigs!

 

Cute bob. A compassionate girl!

 

January 24, 2009

Writing, writing and writing.

From something I am working on:

"I don't cry. I try to imagine the car tumbling and tumbling, the brand new silver car with its yellowy lights twinkling against a pitch-black sky just like the pictures on my Lite Brite do. I see it as it turns in the air and lands far away from the road. In my picture the car is empty. Daddy is nowhere to be seen. It's as if he is lost."

 

January 23, 2009

This and That

My daughter cut her hair today. IT was a huge cut. From all the way down her back to just above her shoulders. IT was her idea and the 10 plus inches of ponytail are now going to make wigs for kids with cancer. I am proud of her! Pics this weekend. Did I mention this was all HER idea? Or that I am proud?

 

******In other news, finally, as requested from those that read, a COMMENTS application is coming as is RSS and Google READER. Stay tuned and watch for minor style changes and be forgiving and patient as I wrangle my way through this!!!!!!! Cross your fingers that it doesn't take too long as I don't have 'too long' as I am on a writing deadline:)

 

OH, and favourite 'search strings' for January that brought people to my site:

'box of midget cake'

'easy mommy'

'girlandlola'

 

January 22, 2009

I have a daughter. She is eight years old. She is part of me and of her father but even more powerful, she continues to be part of her grandparents on both sides, both in her looks and her talents. She has my mother's almond eyes and I think, my dad's gift of art. She also shares these eyes with members of my husband's family. This girl is a wonder, as most eight year old children are. The world is hers to take, to dream and oh, the possibilities. She will do something very good tomorrow. It will be to help others but I know it will help her 'grow her character'. Stay tuned!

 

January 21, 2009

The 'people' have gathered and discussed and 'opinioned' and 'judged' and Carrie sums it up simply and accurately. Opinion becomes judgment when "it lacks compassion."

There were many reasons why I was thinking about this. Some random and some specific. I just find that as I get older, some things, like friendships, should be easier but often they are not. I was also thinking about friendship dynamics - confiding, sharing, listening and giving advice. Knowing when to do which can be tricky. Sometimes we just need to vent and other times we want a valued friend's opinion. Sometimes we just want to be heard or even validated. It's tricky, when on the receiving end, to know which one is needed sometimes. What I do know for sure though is that nobody wants to be judged and that indeed is 'opinion that lacks compassion.' A new mantra:)

 

January 20, 2009

ROCK BARACK! History is MaDe!

 

January 18, 2009

When does opinion become judgment?

 

January 16, 2009

Nie Nie is BACK today! She will be posting for the first time since the tragic accident in August. IF you haven't already gone to check out her site, please do so. At the very least it will inspire you. Honest!

January 15, 2009

This is the temperature gage in hubby's Mini Cooper this a.m. Keep in mind it doesn't measure the wind-chill and it's Celsius!!

 

January 14, 2009

I have wonderful memories of watching Fantasy Island with my Nan. It was on after Love Boat ,which we watched after she would pick me up from school and drive me to her house for one weekend every month. It was an hour drive and we planned our activities all the way down to our snacks during show time. It was a special time and things were easier, especially at Nan's. Fantasy Island was on at 10 p.m. so getting to stay up that late to watch it was treat enough.

 

"I am Mr. Roarke, your host. Welcome to Fantasy Island."

 

RIP Mr. Roarke.

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090114/montalban_obit_090114/20090114?hub=TopStories

 

January 14, 2009

The city is in a deep freeze. The brain is in a deep freeze. The vehicle is in a deep freeze. I'm not sure who is whining more, me or the vehicle. Seriously, it is so cold that unless I wait for a good 7 minutes minimum, the wheels don't want to turn or they can't.  That's all I've got today. Oh, except to say that it's really sunny!

 

January 13, 2009

I know, it's still all about the weather-sorry:(

The deep freeze is on its way. Even for HERE, it's going to be more than cold!!!! -36 Celsius which equals about -32.8 F! There is a freezing/wind-chill/ weather warning. So cover up everything that looks and feels like skin or you may lose it to Mr. Frostbite. OR, just stay home in your pj's...for days...that's how long it's going to last....days........DAZE........The bears really know what they are doing with this whole hibernation thing. Now where is my pot of honey!?!?!

 

January 12, 2009

It's just after 6 pm and I am in my pj's and proud of it! I am embracing the season. It continues to be so cold here. All over the radio the big talk is of the 'high' for Wednesday and Thursday of -24C. THE HIGH!!!! GEEZ!!!! OH, and 5-10 cm's of snow tonight too! So, I am in my pj's relaxing my bones after a day of teaching yoga.

What don't you go put your pj's on?!?! I dare you!

 

January 10, 2009

It's cold here-very cold. I need ideas to keep motivated, inspired and WARM!!!!!! Send me some! Here's what I am already doing - hanging with friends at local coffee shops (when I am not insisting on staying in my pj's all day due to the FrEeZiNg cold weather), teaching yoga to warm souls, writing, daydreaming about summer and booking our trip to sunnyland for next Christmas. Finally my dream of waking up on the beach on Christmas day is going to happen! I can feel the sand already!

 

January 8, 2009 in PJ's

I took this very relevant and official test from a very reliable and trustworthy source on the internet! And this is what it said:

 

You Act Like You Are 18 Years Old
You are a teenager at heart. You don't quite feel like a grown up yet, but you don't feel like a kid.
You question authority and are still trying to find your place in this world.
You're quite rebellious, and you don't like being told what to do. You like to do things your way. You have your own unique style, taste in music, and outlook on life.
 

Here is is if you want to try http://www.blogthings.com/whatagequiz/

 

January 8, 2009

I love my friends, period!

TQ

FYI update on January 6 post -little person is going on hiatus and so far, public response is - 'let the girl decide.' It's unanimous! Thanks for the mush!

 

January 7, 2009

For a hump day, not bad!

 

January 6, 2009 again! I told you it was a snow day so I am blitzing around the house trying to get 'important stuff' done but keep getting distracted!

 

 

So, hypothetically speaking, what do you do when a little person aka non-adult in your house, continually expresses an opinion to retire from an activity. And what if this little person has been pursuing this activity for 5 years (which is a lifetime when you are 8) and is really good and is in an advanced program and loves to perform???? AND what if this little person has done this before and always changed their mind but this time it seems different, more intense.......Hypothetically speaking, I think the bigger person in the house is ready to listen, is convinced that the little person means it this time. Once the decision is made, the cons are few and the pros are so plentiful. Cons

-leaving something really good at

Pros

-having the time to do other things-to explore and try other things one is interested in and is good at i.e. swimming, resuming soccer and tapping into a creative talent one can only be born with. AND can always return back to previous pursuit if a change of heart comes about.

I think it's important to have a 'voice' even when you are 'little.' I also think it's important to know the difference between 'I don't feel like going today because I'm tired or want to do something else' and 'I just want a break to do other things and just because I am really good at this activity doesn't mean I want to continue with 7 classes 4 times a week.' I rest my case. Everyone needs a break or change of scenery sometimes.

What do YOU think? Click on 'comments' at the top and I will post opinions. And I know that some comments will have other's opinions based on their own experiences and their own little people and I love the idea of mushing them all together.

Thanks for listening:) Now let's mush!

 

January 6, 2008

For all intents and purposes (does that even make sense?), it is a snow day. Snow day meaning no school buses so no school . Yes, the schools are still open and the teachers have to show up mostly on account of all the parents that have to get to work and don't have kids old enough to stay home alone (don't blast me-this is my opinion) and also fall under the pressure of school board politics and budget. I mean, they can't be closing the schools every time the white stuff falls but they can cancel buses because that is a safety issue and not a political or financial issue. Okay, back to my point. It IS a snow day-it was showcased and highlighted all day and night yesterday. The weather network teased with photos and radar and tracking devices and more. SO, imagine my surprise when I get up way too early just to double check on the TV  AND our city school buses are the only ones that are running. Five minutes from my  house there aren't any buses running and, well, the city buses for commuters have been on strike for almost a month now but our school buses are taking  a stubborn approach is my thinking. Never mind that my children don't even take the bus. We religiously follow the 'no school bus, no school' mantra.

Everyone was disappointed and grumpy and it was daddy who 'saved the day' as he chose to work from home considering the city bus strike nonsense and the fact that whether the school buses are cancelled or not, there will be too much snow later today and there will be much difficulty getting around!!!!!!!!

I'm just glad that my schedule is flexible enough to have my own little snow day (pauses to sip from yummy starbucks latte)

 

January 5, 2008

"Starting today I am going to be better. I am going to listen, love, communicate, cherish, enjoy, teach, preach and prepare my children. Time for everything else later." -Quote from Stephanie Nielson (of I read Nie Nie fame-see above).

I think this is hopeful and inspirational. A great New Year's mantra. Click on the Nie Nie block above to read all about Nie, her life, her family and the family tragedy that has seen more than a village nursing this family back to life, health and well, back to family. Her sister c jane is hanging out on my right side bar-go there too. You will be mesmerized and your heart will grow. Honest. It will!

 

January 3, 2009

Haven Kimmel's new book Iodine is kicking my ass! I am finding it to be a challenging read so far. Not like anything else  I have read...but I am forging ahead and trying my best. I am about 80 pages in and waiting....... I think the wait is over. But no more reading it late at night. The dreams.....i.e. my bowl of jellybeans ringing like an old fashioned telephone!!!!!!

 

January 2, 2009

Something I usually look forward to-cracking out the new calendar and putting on my best penmanship face and gleefully marking it up-colour coded activities and all----is something I have been putting off for several days now. See, the old me would have it done  a month before the previous year was over. But I was informed many times and sometimes in a menacing way, that THIS was  bad luck. Never turn the calendar ahead on the last day of the month-no matter how much it wreaks havoc on the actual next day as you have no head's up as to what and who has to be where and when. And so, in my effort to lower bad karma and bad luck and to embrace a more 'slide by the seat of my pants' versus ocd levels of organization, I have let all things calendar slide....until now. It's time to mark it up and a plenty of marking it will be. January will be January and February will be blahher (yeah, my word, my website) because February is always blah hence the term 'February blahs' and it is the longest shortest month and often the coldest even with the 14th scheduled to warm hearts across the universe AND this year especially it will be blah as I will be on my own with two rump sacks aka children to cart around all over the mulberry bush for dancing and soccer and volunteering and socializing and school while our main rump roast provider is gallivanting around the world with his rock star status as a world renowned expert in some kind of field that doesn't involve an Apple Book! Pray for me. But more importantly, send me the title of a new fave song of yours that I can listen to as jump right in to this season!

 

BTW this is my Nan and I in the middle 1970's. With matching pixie haircuts ( sorta-kinda) and plentiful hugs, I was her number 1 and she was mine -my connection to a lost mother. My Uncle Buddy studies stubby beer bottles in the background as he daydreams about his sideburns. A familiar face reminding me of my dad, also lost to the world at this time.

 

January 1, 2009 later in the day

Chinese food dinner and good fortunes were read. All that's left is the much anticipated chocolate fondue! There will be pineapple, strawberries, hairless kiwi, banana, apple, rice krispie treats and brownies and CHOCOLATE of course!

 

And speaking of all things yummy and luscious, why oh why am I denied this....? There is no substitute and I promise to take good care of it. Yes, it's pricey but it's an investment and if you break it down by 'cost per sit' it's actually a great deal.

 

It's the JAYNE sofa at Anthropologie and gosh darn it, they won't ship to our true north strong and free!!!!!! I've sent a pity letter but I don't hold out much hope. I feel a road trip coming on. Hubby better look into one way truck rentals....... The link is too long so if you are really interested, go to http://www.anthropologie.com

and type in Jayne sofa. OH and um, I like the grey silk, grey velvet and blue velvet.....just in case you're wondering.

 

January 1, 2009

Happy New YEAR!

 

It's a new YEAR! Let's celebrate! If you're happy and you know it, clap your hands!!!!

Gee, I wish they'd bring back 'the clapper.' Remember that gadget-and the commercial- "clap on..clap of..clap on, clap off, the clapper! Hey Carrie, wouldn't Rojo love 'the clapper?' I can hear him now, "where's my #$%^ clapper? Will the damn clapper work no matter what? $%^& the clapper."

 

So, I have started on my new year improvements (and yes I am aware that some of them contradict each other but isn't life full of contradictions?). Relax more. Say NO more (been working on that one a few years Carrie and by gosh it gets easier:). Also, say YES more. Enjoy the moment more. Take the time. Follow 'the' dream. Write. Write. Write. Do not be afraid. Appreciate. Appreciate. Love. LOVE. Wish. Dream. Enjoy the moment again and  more again. Follow thru. Stick to my guns when it counts. Reach out. Continue to work on bucket list. Board ready moments.

 

Also, I am exploring new stuff and have lots of new books to read. I look forward to this journey. It was meant to be that I get to this-the signs were there-on blogs, websites, in conversations with friends, pretty book covers. 2009 -is it the year I find my 'inner Buddha?'

 

Happy NEW YEAR! I wish you all magic, love and lots of chocolate~!

 

December 24, 2008

Tis the EVE to be Jolly!

Word has it that this guy is on his way, having already hit Australia and New Zealand!

So you better be good 'cause he's on his way!

 

December 23, 2008

Just what does it mean when a family member sends you a card and signs it 'sincerely?' What does it mean when in the past this same relative has written 'love?' What does it mean when this relative could have chosen the option to:

a/ just sign the card without a salutation

b/ could have just signed the card as always

c/just not send a card

I should mention that this immediate family member is someone that doesn't really talk to us for reasons we do not know. We are okay with this-we miss the person and feel for the situation they have put themselves in but do not know what to do except to love from afar.

Sincerely,

Lo

 

December 21 P.M., 2008

He's okay, my fellow Swede. Yeah, all this time I though I had some Scot in me although I didn't seem to have any of 'those' characteristics....and then I found out that in addition to being of Irish descent, I am also of some Swedish descent....meaning the Anderson was originally Andersen....but that is not here or there right now. Well it's more there but......

 

So yeah, he's okay-Daniel Alfredson-Captain Extraordinaire of the Ottawa Senators (that's an NHL team for those of you that don't live and breathe sport or live under a snowy rock). He took a cheap hit from behind last night in the game against Dallas. So cheap, as in illegal and dangerous. No hits from behind and near the boards dirties the water even more. So, as Alfie lays on the ice, no one does anything. Well, a trainer rushes out but his teammates just stand and gape....I give them the benefit of the doubt for about 5 seconds because it is an oddity to see Alf flat on the ice. It just doesn't happen. BUT, if and when your big C gets hit and it's dirty, action needs to be taken and there wasn't any. Not then, not during the 2nd or 3 period which by the way did not see Alfie's return to the game.

But he's okay. He walked into Starbucks just after noon time today, on his own and with no assistance. He looked good (except for the lame mustaches all the players are growing-you know, they look like sad faces-the mustache shape-yuck) and there was no visible limp. There is a limp in the dressing room though. This team-my team, needs to get it together, both on the ice and off!!!!!

 

December 21 A.M. , 2008

Checklist

School finished-check

Shopping done-check

Cards sent-check

Baking done-getting there

Flu/Illness type thing 'caught' from others-check

Flu/Illness thing conquered in time for holidays-check

Winter Storm Warning with heavy accumulation AGAIN-check

Wind-chill being totally unreasonable with -27C not including wc-check

Senators win one at home-check

Check, check and more check!

Now I must go check on the snow accumulation outside!

 

December 18, 2008

Christmas past! Fun memories. Cousins galore, sisters and parents! Simple, not extravagant-just what we needed under the  tree....

I am the second one from the left (in the red dress) Sisters and cousins surround me.  Who will surround you this holiday season?

 

December 17, 2008

A Christmas 'Carol'

Today would be my mother's birthday. She would be 59 but she is still 24 to me as that is as far as she got here on earth. My mother was a Christmas Baby, meaning she was born during the Christmas season-December 17th. And she is named Carol-after 'A Christmas Carol.'

I don't know what she would be like were she here today but I like to think that she would get up and look outside at the snow and smile on her way back in to make some hot chocolate (a favourite of the 'women' around this house). Later she would run outside in the snow and fall down making snow angels with her daughter and her granddaughter. There would be lots of giggling and out loud laughing. There would be lots of comfort and joy!

 

December 16, 2008

CARDS-Holiday CARDS

It's a love/hate relationship.

Really.

I used to adore writing cards. I would buy beautiful gel pens in festive colours after testing 5-6 different kinds to make sure that they didn't smudge or write too fat. I would buy stickers and sparkles for the envelopes. Heck, at one point I was making my own cards every year! Yeah! I DO need some Vodka! 60 Plus cards-handmade-every year!

I could only sustain that for so long. This year, many of the cards I am sending out have my sister's art on them. YUP! She's famous now-for her cards and I bought some after I hunted them down and am sending them out rather proudly-today-um yeah, just    have    to    get    to     the    post    office    and    put   them   in    the    shiny    red    box!!! VODKA!

BUT

Come on, you knew there would be a BUT right???

Now I don't think that I like/enjoy the entire card writing process! I start thinking about how George's fiancé died in THAT episode of Seinfeld and I worry about the ingredients in the 'lick' of the envelope (so I use water and sponge).

And then there's the usual scenario for at least half of my cards-no address, or no postal code/zip for my U. S. people-only email addresses. So then I become a  mailing sweatshop. Computer out and bookmarked to 411 directory, Motorola Q scanning for addresses that could be accurate or really old (didn't they move 3 years ago...) and then there's my trusty and very old address book. You know the kind-it has pages that you write the addresses on-phone numbers too. Anyways, I noticed today that mine is full of lots of crossed out addresses.......Hmmmm

THEN

Yeah, then is next.

Then I think about how I can cut down on cards as my writing ends up looking like a Doctor's practice prescription pad from Med School.....And then I get sad because I notice the cards I am not writing because some people are no longer with me or with any of us. They are upstairs in heaven....I think....I hope......

Finally-okay, you know the drill by now-there's a Finally!

It used to be fun. I would make a day of it. Play Steve and Edyie (i Still did that), drink something festive ( it was too early even for me but I did have a coke which is really bad here at THAT time of day but not in California), chat (no one is here) and call my Nan in-between to ask for long lost relatives addresses. She's not here anymore either and hasn't been for a long time but I especially miss her at Christmas (another post somewhere, sometime).

So THERE-okay there was one more!

So there. This year they go out-next year----not so sure.......

 

December 11, 2008

No more hiding behind the snow. December 25th will be here soon and there's so much to do!

 

December 10, 2008

Oh, I've been meaning to tell you this for awhile now. I don't shop at Walmart anymore. I never really did like the store-well maybe before it came to Canada when we would go to New York state and the service was great and everyone smiled and no one stood in a line longer than two people....but that was eons ago and before I knew what I know.

Personally, I just never enjoyed shopping there. Between the shanty town inspired narrow aisles, the smell of 'Old Mc Donald's' in the diaper section and the poor, poor customer service and lack of overall morale, it's not an exaggeration to say that it was the opposite of a Disney World experience.

But I would go-out of convenience and sometimes boredom and always left disgruntled, staticy and frustrated. And so I just stopped.

Recently I have been reading on many blogs and other information sites about the negative company policies that the Wal of Mart employs and supports so it only made it easier and perhaps a tad more official that I stick to my guns and really for the sake of myself and others, never go in one again-and so I haven't.

And before the emails start flying in about all the other corporate and retail disasters that are out there, let me say this, I cannot save the world but can only do my little part. It's a personal opinion and one I feel strongly about. I should probably boycott a lot of other retailers and businesses ( and trust me, slowly I am) but realistically, I have to shop somewhere and with my freedom of choice I choose 'somewhere' to not be Walmart.

Here's something interesting:
"Wal-Mart provides an up-front savings for shoppers, but the cost is carried by increasingly brutal labor conditions, especially in China, but also in the U.S. Because Wal-Mart is now the largest corporation in the world, its practice of disregarding human rights for the sake of a good sale on the other side of the world is setting an ominous trend in an industry that is now trying to keep up with Wal-Mart by wringing more labor for less and less compensation.
Consider, also, that foreign cheap labor comes in part because of their socialist government that covers daily living expenses of the workers, so the true cost of labor is actually through subsidies by a Communist system. By supporting Wal-Mart, we endanger American Free Enterprise and prop up totalitarianism.
Now Wal-Mart is leading the way in implementing RFID product tracking, leading the way to more of an Orwellian big brother world of tyranny here in the United States and elsewhere in the world.
This is creating a very serious breach of conscience for millions of otherwise upright Americans, who can sense that these low prices come at a price. It is time to stop patronizing increasingly slave-like labor conditions at home and abroad."
http://www.greaterthings.com/News/Wal-Mart/index.html
Sterling D. Allan

 

December 10, 2008

Well, it took double digits on the calendar to get here but gosh darn, finally-a snow day!!!!! Yippee!!!!!!!!!! WE slept in (after getting up at 5 am to confirm said snow day) and then we had scrambled eggs and freshly baked muffins and then we headed out to do the walkway and porch (not included in our snow removal contract and since the other 'snow removal contract guy' aka Hubby, is out of town, it was left to mom and kiddie power). Of course no time in the great northern outdoors is complete without covering your Bernese Mountain Dog in snow and making snow angels alongside of Mountain Dog that insists on burying his entire head in the snow. Here and there and here again and there. It's been an hour and he is still drying!!!!!

Once in the house, the outdoor clothes went right into the dryer and we enjoyed some homemade hot chocolate. You know, the kind that starts with delicately boiled milk on the stove mixed with Belgian chocolate shavings. YUM!!!!!! Everyone is now taking some chill time and then it is lunch and a movie at home -National Lampoon's Christmas vacation! Oh, um, and maybe I will get the Christmas cards signed! BTW school is SOOOOOOOOOOOO overrated!

 

December 9, 2008 and damn cold!

I just LOVE waking up to this sort of thing:

:WINTER STORM WARNING: City of Ottawa Issued at 5:38 AM EST TUESDAY 9
SIGNIFICANT SNOW FOLLOWED BY FREEZING RAIN BEGINNING THIS AFTERNOON OR EVENING. THIS IS A WARNING THAT DANGEROUS WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE IMMINENT OR OCCURRING IN THESE REGIONS. MONITOR WEATHER CONDITIONS..LISTEN FOR UPDATED STATEMENTS.
"A LOW PRESSURE OVER MISSOURI WILL TRACK ACROSS SOUTHERN LAKE HURON THEN MAKE A BEE-LINE TO JUST SOUTH OF OTTAWA TONIGHT. SNOW HEAVY AT TIMES WILL PREVAIL IN REGIONS NORTH OF TRACK OF THE LOW INCLUDING MOST OF SKI COUNTRY EAST OF GEORGIAN BAY. TOTAL SNOWFALL AMOUNTS OF 15 TO 25 CENTIMETRES ARE QUITE LIKELY TODAY AND TONIGHT. NEAR THE TRACK OF THE LOW WILL SEE SNOW HEAVY AT TIMES GIVING NEAR 15 CENTIMETRES WHICH MAY CHANGE OVER TO PERIODS OF FREEZING RAIN AS THE LOW GOES BY. THIS INCLUDES THE OTTAWA VALLEY AND THE NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION. MEANWHILE OVER REGIONS NEAR LAKE ERIE SNOW HAS BECOME MIXED WITH OR CHANGED OVER TO FREEZING RAIN IN THE LONDON ACROSS BRANTFORD INTO THE NIAGARA PENINSULA. THE FREEZING RAIN IS EXPECTED TO END THIS MORNING AS THE MERCURY RISES ABOVE THE ZERO DEGREE MARK. ENVIRONMENT CANADA WILL CONTINUE TO WATCH THIS WINTER STORM AND ADJUST WARNINGS AS NEEDED. THERE IS STILL SOME UNCERTAINTY AS TO THE EXACT TRACK OF THE STORM CENTRE WHICH WILL AFFECT THE EXACT LOCATION OF THE HEAVY SNOW AND FREEZING RAIN. MOTORISTS SHOULD EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION. DANGEROUS WINTER DRIVING CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED. UNTREATED SURFACES MAY BE ICY AND VERY SLIPPERY ESPECIALLY IN AREAS RECEIVING FREEZING RAIN. PLEASE REFER TO THE LATEST PUBLIC FORECASTS FOR FURTHER DETAILS."

Thank YOU Weather Network!

 

December 8, 2008

Things are busy

!!!!!!!

 

December 7, 2008 or Post Nutcracker, 2008

Well, we ALL survived 5 shows in 4 days! Most importantly, our star, Brynn, the actual performer, survived and lived to tell many a tale!

With 4 roles and 5 shows (two in one day), she was awesome. From a head full of ringlets (that's an entire post in itself) to play a guest child to her 'star' role as the soldier that fights the King Rat after he tugs her and lifts her and twirls her around, to the bun wearing, peaceful, tear evoking and coveted Angel part and with the festive and colourful Chinese ribbon dancer rounding things out, it was spectacular!

Now excuse me while I try to find my daughter in the mist of hairspray!

 

December 5, 2008

My Wonder Woman!

 

December 1, 2008

A new month. Perhaps a new optimism (even though the threat of a snow day was such a treat while the daydream lasted......no snow day....:( my kids say.

I'm trying to update more often if for no other reason than I want to -for me. I have a restless feeling and can't quite narrow in on what it is - probably because it's restless. I do think it has something to do with purpose-my purpose. About me and what I'm supposed to 'be' and what I am supposed to 'be doing' as well as what I want to do and what gives me peace and joy. So far, no concrete answers other than frivolous thoughts/things like a weekend in Vegas and a week somewhere warm during the winter months, a random cocktail night and extra family time during these busy times....

I think I want all those around me to get the 'aha' moment that I keep getting-over and over and for the same and different reasons. See, what makes a fantastic 'aha' moment lose steam  is when no one else has it. They don't get it and their weapons are different than mine and I find myself fighting the urge to slip back-somewhere I don't want to go. And so I hibernate. It's a seasonal pursuit that comes only natural to one like me 'living' in a cold winter climate with wind-chills that would freeze your drive thru STarbucKs MoChA!

I've decided I like, no, I adore my hibernation moments. They are pure joy most of the time. Just me, myself and joy. I like it. Going to try to make it a regular 'thing.'

Oh and you know a lot of this restlessness has to do with my writing right!?!

 

November 30, 2008

hOpInG & wIsHiNg On A sTaR fOr A sNoW dAy!

...OVER EASTERN ONTARIO AND THE NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION WHERE A WINTER STORM WARNING IS NOW IN EFFECT SNOW HEAVY AT TIMES WILL ARRIVE BY EVENING AND MAY BECOME MIXED WITH ICE PELLETS AND FREEZING RAIN OVERNIGHT BEFORE POSSIBLY CHANGING TO FREEZING RAIN BY MONDAY MORNING. A HEAVY ACCUMULATION OF NEAR 10 CM OF SNOW AND ICE PELLETS IS EXPECTED BEFORE THE FREEZING RAIN MOVES IN BY MONDAY MORNING. UNTREATED SURFACES IN THIS REGION MAY BECOME QUITE ICY

 

Still November 29, 2008

Piper Anderson - Artist, Advocate for those that need her and most importantly, my sistah, a Rock star in her own right! Go here to treat your eyes to her thought provoking and fun art and other creations!  Oh btw she has cards-officially cards by a fancy schmancy company. They came to her-wanted her illustration for a limited edition 2008 holiday card. The same illustration that I saw on her site a year ago and said to myself, "gosh darn it, I want a holiday card made from THAT." And so I did what any good sister of an artist would do, I asked nicely and she said yes and I made cards with her illustration and they were so yummy and whimsy and everything else. WELL, apparently this fancy and schmancy company thought the same and made 'real' cards from this very creation. Such fun and exciting news except that said sister could no longer use the image and couldn't find these little gems with matching envelopes anywhere (unless she became a wholesaler/retailer overnight). So, sister was sad and disappointed and THEN while shopping last night, something caught her eye and then there was a shriek and a lunge and another shriek in line and much talking to strangers about these beautiful cards and how they aren't just ANY holiday cards but that they are my sistah's creation and I found them and bought them and now I will send them with glee!!! It was a proud moment-much shrieking and almost a tear!

My sistah rocks!!!!!!!!!

http://www.piperillustration.typepad.com

 

November 29, 2008

I was THAT close! Seriously!

 

 

Captain Elton in Vegas. We thought we had 5th row seats but turns out they were second row! And then we went on stage for the finale. We were so close!!!!!! Another dream comes true!

 

OnE of my BFF forever, forever-Scottie! WE went to see Her Madgesty and Captian Elton together!

 

 

November 28, 2008

It is that time of year-to celebrate and spread the cheer!

 

November 16, 2008

I know. I have a lot of explaining to do.......lots to show and tell about my VEGAS weekend. Payback's a bitch though and I have spent this past week scurrying around like a fluffy grey squirrel gathering nuts and yeah, I'm about to go nuts! So please oh pretty please, be patient and I will have a good story for you this week!!!

 

 

November 5, 2008

 

 

1 more sleep until So You Think You Can Dance Canada

2 more sleeps until Las Vegas

3 more sleeps until MADONNA!

4 more sleeps until ELTON JOHN

 

Do yah think I'm gonna sleep tonight!?!?!?!

 

 

November 4, 2008

Holiday! Celebrate! Taking a holiday! The countdown is on. 4 more sleeps until I can check another item off my 'bucket' list. Sitting up close and personal in Las Vegas with her MADGESTY! MS. Madonna, formerly known at Mrs. Guy Ritchie..............

Let the good times roll....and then some!

 

October 28, 2008

Tom and Lola

This photo just came to me via my sistah!

 

October 27, 2008

My Dad

Thomas Warren Anderson - My Original Rock Star!

 

Tommy loved rare steak, open faced peanut butter sandwiches, fishing, painting, muzak, his back tickled with a feather  and most of all, he loved his family.

 

Today is the day that my dad died-34 years ago. It's hard to imagine that it's been that long. In my mind, my dreams and certainly my memories, he is a young man, coasting thru his late twenties. Full of both the hopes and frustrations of finding one's way-of trying to 'make' it in the world.

 

I feel more in tune to my dad and his memory and this anniversary, than most years. I just had some of his art framed. The manager of the store confided in me when I picked the framed pieces up. Afraid of freaking me she told me how she heard my story, about my dad, his death, this reclaimed art. She whispered to me, looking me right in the eye, "I felt he was here that day." What a gift.

 

Again, I still see my dad in his twenties when really, were he alive, he would be in his early sixties. Three days from today, October 30, he would celebrate another birthday. Instead, he was put to rest on his birthday thirty-four years ago, one day shy of his favourite holiday-Halloween.

I daydream that he still loves ‘the colour purple’ with rollerblades replacing roller-skates as his ride.

I see him, still dancing and grooving to the  muzak both old and new.
 

I daydream about him:

.....playing rock band with my son
....painting with my daughter
....having a beer with his son in law
.....talking  literature with his daughter

I miss him more now and would even suck it up and eat a ‘cherry blossom’  (he loved those) for a few minutes with him....:)

Not sure if the missing is more conscious this year than others because I have pieced together more of his story-just not sure. I just know that yes, there is peace with knowing and yet at the same time it breaks my heart a few times a year and this is one of them.....
 

October 22, 2008

I'm feeling a little loopy!

 

*Ed note - keep in mind that I am tired and cluterfooked (new word 'we' are trying out) from my weeknight rendezvous last night with an old and dear friend. Okay, the apple (organic) martinis may have something to do with it.....

*Warning - this post has ADD written all over it, among other things.

 

Where has the time gone? I don't know. It's kinda like the economy and the Canadian dollar-WHERE have they both gone?!?! Today, our dollar had its weakest showing yet, dipping below 80 cents for the first time in years! For those of us that shop in the U S of A a lot, this developing news is not welcome. What the hell will those Americans do without us to plump up their economy because um, things are worse there. Especially if say, 3 weeks ago you bought a table you had been lusting after and over for a long time,  (when the dollar was showing strong) but store policy wouldn't let you pay for it until it came in (yesterday as the dollar continued to slip, slide and away). That kinda sucks BUT what sucks more is that the exact same shop here in Canada tries to sell the same merchandise for twice the price. As I told them myself, it's beyond insulting. It's just plain dumb and gives people like me, always up for a challenge, the opportunity to work it however possible to get things to work in my favour and of course in a fair and equitable fashion.

Unfortunately I will always love the Pottery Barn but like a passionate relationship, we are bound to experience conflict from time to time.

 

On another note, apparently I am driving around in a new vehicle and didn't know it-until yesterday and then again today. I mean, I know I'm busy and things are a bit hectic but I think I would remember trading in the silver liberty for something like, say, Wonder Woman's invisible plane!!!!! Yeah, apparently I have been invisible on the road these past few days. I've had to honk my horn so much that I'm worried it's going to run out before I'm done with it. 'People' are not seeing me when I am driving at varying rates of speed. I don't get it. My vehicle is not small (well, only to Californians as they tend to jack their SUV's to match the roofline of the house) and it is not of a colour that blends in with the countryside. It's not orange or red to blend in with the ever changing fall leaves and it's not white to blend in with the S$@! (white stuff) that is on its way. AND it's not green so it doesn't match the grass!

But I do love Wonder Woman and if I am truly the proud owner of her ride, I will 'fly' it with pride!

 

October 5, 2008

As I wrote to a friend today, it is surely meant to be that I finally pick up 'The Shack' to read. I heard all about it from different friends but for some reason I was dragging my feet on it and I'm still not sure why. But yesterday I broke all my rules about not shopping at big box on the weekends and ended up in Costco by accident and guess what was yelling out to me from the book aisle?!!? Yup. THE SHACK!

Stay tuned! AND if you already read it, tell me how it affected your life???

 

September 24, 2008

I don't know this person. This following was shared on a website/blog that I follow for different reasons. But it spoke to me and it is beautiful and sad and authentic. I feel the need to share it.

 

The Bravest Obituary I've Ever Read

Kathryn Jane Packard

Our beautiful Katie Jane passed away on September 20, 2008. She succumbed in her battle against addiction. Katie was 31 years old. It was very important to her that we acknowledge her drug addiction so that others might read of it and know the dreadful consequences that follow addictions.

Katie was born on January 18, 1977 into the loving arms of her family, who had awaited her arrival for years with hope and anticipation. She was a talented little girl, putting on shows for family gatherings and belting out her favorite songs to the amusement and delight of her audience. Her signature song was from Annie, Tomorrow. As a child, Katie loved musicals and would play the soundtracks over and over again, particularly South Pacific and, of course, Annie. Katie married Yancy Childs in 1996. They were later divorced. He is the father of her children.

Katie had a very noble, sensitive soul. She was kind and accepting of others. Motherhood was what she considered her greatest achievement. She was until very recently employed at a private facility. She loved the girls at the facility and found joy working there.

Katie was the mother of Madilyn and Noah Childs, who survive her. She tried very hard to lead a happy productive life. However, the evil shadow of addiction loomed heavily upon her. This mortal existence was a very hard experience for Katie, and her family takes comfort in knowing that she is now free from the torment of addiction. She leaves a void in the lives of her family, who misses her terribly. She left so soon. Our faith in our Heavenly Father and Savior is strong. We do not doubt that she was met by her many friends and family who adore her and that she is in their care even now.

'Till we meet again Kate!

*Borrowed from http://blog.cjanerun.com/

 

September 22, 2008

It's coming later today and even though I feel like Mother Nature skipped most of summer (other than my 10 days in California) I look forward to the leaves turning and the apple picking and the cool air and the orange and red colours that are everywhere.

Welcome Fall:)

 

September 17, 2008

Facebook

Who knew?

That we are all leading secret lives on facebook (albeit Carrie is brand new).

Really-who knew?!?!!?

Now hurry up and accept my friend request ASAP-CARRIE and SHELIA:) BTW S, I LOVE to text and send cookies too!

 

September 15, 2008

Amy Krouse Rosenthal is a writer- creator-a neat human being.

She is unique and she sent  an email sharing something AMAZING. Please watch THIS and then consider participating. It might make you cry (good tears) and it might make you laugh or both (this writer is guilty of both).

Go ahead, add a rainbow to your day!

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QVQSZA9zSk

 

September 15, 2008

 

DEAR Cable Company that doesn't want to hear from me,

 

 I moved into my new home in November. You installed my cable.
I am a high value customer. My bill is apprx $140 per month and I don't even watch much television. My cable wasn't working MANY months ago. You came out and repaired it and had to run the line above ground AGAIN like when it was first installed in the middle of winter. I waited forever to have it buried the first time. I have been waiting forever to have it buried the second time. I have been more than patient and it should have been done by now. It is a safety hazard. I have NOT been able to get hold of you by phone as you are always experiencing 'high call
volumes.' I understand this as I worked in a call centre for 9 years (some of which were not proud moments). I also understand that buried wire is not a priority, again because I worked at Bell Canada. I would like a call AND  my wire buried ASAP. It has been months and months. I am not going to go through another winter with wire above ground. It is a safety hazard here where I live and the deer may nibble it and the chipmunks may self strangle when frolicking. I am trying to remain patient. This is why I am writing in short point form type sentences. Again, because I worked in a call centre and I know that the nicer I am to you, the more willing you will be to do the job you are paid to do and not act like it is you personally that has to come out and bury my wire. I write this I am on hold with your company once again. Please reconfirm my commitment to ROGERS by taking care of this customer request that
should have been completed months ago. Bell Canada is begging for my
business. I am a reasonable person but I am not receiving reasonable
service. Before you know it, November will be here again!
Thank you in advance:)

 

September 10, 2008

So, this is what I do. I start thinking about stuff I need to do tomorrow or the next day or week or year (not kidding:) and I think about this when the evening is almost over and I am sitting on the couch, surfing the web and half watching bad TV. Obviously I don't want to get up and write stuff down at this point so I do the next best thing. I send myself an email and then I can let it go. End of story right? Well, not really a story at all until......all of a sudden I hear the little 'ding' that tells me I have new mail. Well I love mail and so I quickly hit the inbox button to check it out and guess what? Yup. It's from me-the reminder email to myself. Sad thing is I do this over and over and over and over and over again. Pathetic? Funny? Crazy? Yeah, 3 strikes! What can I say? LOLOLOL (laugh out loud out loud out loud)

 

September 8, 2008

Watching ABC News (I miss Peter Jennings) and they are talking about how the U.S. housing market is the worst it's been since the 1930's. That's what you get by trusting your finances to institutions with names like 'Fannie May' and 'Freddie Mac.' I mean really. Sounds like a fast food chain name, no?

 

September 7, 2008

 

"Your daily life is your temple and your religion.

Whenever you enter into it take with you your all.

Take the plough and the forge and  the mallet and the lute,

The things you have fashioned in necessity or for delight.

For in reverie you cannot rise above your achievements nor fall lower than your failures.

And take with you all men:

For in adoration you cannot fly higher than their hopes nor humble yourself lower than their despair." The Prophet-Kahlil Gibran

 

I feel like I have so much to say and chat about but at the same time not feeling the energy. I'm getting caught up in my own book work (and this is good). Reading and writing but thank gosh NO arithmetic! This summer just whipped by! I mean whipped! It also left me wiped-really wiped!!!!! I took a break from many things and now feel rejuvenated as I navigate and figurate (yeah, I think I'm making that word up but spell check seems to like it so I guess I can't take credit). What to do and how to do it and in what order. Thinking about death a lot and what I think comes after. There's no choice. Even though I'm preoccupied with death on a regular basis, I'm usually able to 'turn it off' but death is around me so much lately. More than usual and closer to home than I would like. I'm trying to find a way to be okay with it but I'm just not. I don't get this eternity thing  most of the time and until I know what is out there after my time here, I want no part of eternity.

I want to not sweat the small stuff so much and although others may disagree, I have made a lot of progress in this area. I also want to seize the day, the moment, the week-more and I've been working on that too-I give myself a B + there but I only really like A's:) So, don't sweat the small stuff, live today like it's your last day, enjoy the simple and continue to check things off the bucket list/board ready list (back to seize the day). Does this post make much sense? EXACTLY!!!!!!!

 

 

 

September 5, 2008

         RIP

Donna Pasanen

 

To Donna

An individual-you  liked to beat to your own drum (now I know where her daughter gets it:). I didn't get a lot of time with you but am grateful for the time we were able to share together. I had so much fun with you and admired and appreciated your quick wit and humour and was glad that we shared a love of shopping and dinners out. I will cherish our conversations, few as they were and am thankful that I was able to get to know, through you, a little more about where Sandi comes from and who helped to shape her into the amazing woman she is.

 

A wonder woman in her own right. A strong and courageous spirit to the end. At peace now and forever. Sandi, you were able to help and support your mom so much. Take solace and strength in that. You rocked! You listened, you supported and you provided comfort, support and laughter. Your mom is proud! xo

 

September 3, 2008

 

 

One of my bestest friends, Sandi (on far right) and her sister Sheri, on either side of their amazing mom, Donna. I chose a pic I took shortly after Sandi's recent wedding. It's a celebration photo caught by the haze of a slowly retreating  sun. It really was a perfect day-just ask the bride. Her mother was able to walk her down the aisle, throwing caution to the wind (along with her cane I might add) by giving her oxygen a rest in her wish to be unencumbered during this beautiful, important and very powerful moment and the sun shone throughout.

 Please keep this wonderful lady and her girls and the rest of the family in your thoughts and prayers as they enter this next phase. From what I know of Donna she would say get off your ass and do something like go to lunch or shop (and if for some reason you can't leave the house, shop from QVC-there really is no excuse not to shop) or take a cruise already!!!!!!

Love

 

September 2, 2008

 

This is a kind of 'mantra' at my daughter's Montessori School and I'm adopting it in my never ending quest to become a better and more authentic person and WRITER!

 

Is it true?

Is it necessary?

Is it kind?

 

August 27, 2008

A beautiful woman

Full of compassion

Full of funnies

A sharp whit

I know where her daughter got it

 

My wonderful and very close friend (even though we aren't close geographically) is going through a journey that is difficult, emotional and all to common these days. Her mom is sick. Her mom may not be with her much longer. It is hard but I think she takes some comfort in her mom's strength. She is a strong lady. She said this:

 

""I have done all that I could do. The girls might take it hard. What I have done might not be perfect-nothing ever is, but I am at peace with it and am ready to go."

Doctor Raja thought that she may have another 4-6 months left and that hospice would make her comfortable.

Talking with her later I asked her if she was scared and she said no that she believed in an afterlife and wasn't sure if it was what we had though it was here on earth but that it was a new adventure and her body was tired and her spirit was ready for a new adventure.

 

Aug 26, 2008

1994

12:04 a.m.

Raining out

Thundering

Very stormy

A boy is born

That boy is now 6 ft tall

Negotiating teen hood

Happy Birthday!

 

August 24, 2008

WHO knew that a chance meeting at another wedding three summers ago would be the start of a friendship forever. It's hard to believe it's only been 3 years as I feel that I've known Sandi WAY longer than that and Cheryl and the boys almost as long!

 

 

Lo (me on the far left), Brides-Sandi and Cheryl and other 'maid' MaryBeth.

Boys Frankie and Andrew in front.

 

This summer I had the very huge honour of being Maid of Honour (yeah, I know it should be Matron since I'm married but Sandi liked the meaning behind the word 'maid' better and you know, it's all about the bride when you are the maid). I spent 11 days in VERY sunny California and during that time we put the finishing touches on a very gorgeous, sophisticated and at the same time down to earth wedding in Sandi and Cheryl's backyard! Two amazing partners that have been together for 14 years and two children. Still loving and respecting and showing up even when things aren't perfect. It was a privilege to be a part of their official (in the eyes of the state) union:)

 

August 18, 2008

"We begin again, we never give up." Lars Gustafsson, The Death of a Beekeeper

This about sums up how things are writing and blog-wise as of late. But I think the light is trying really hard to peek thru that long and swirly tunnel (yes, it's swirly). TQ to Carrie.

 

August 14, 2008

Oops, where am I? Oh, here I am! Phew! Seems I misplaced myself over most of the summer. I'm back now. New and improved I hope:) Lots to write about and such. There have been weddings and funerals and travels and holidays and reading and writing and contemplating and dreaming and resting and relaxing and both seizing and enjoying the moment at the same time!

I'm back! Hope you'll have me:)

 

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