Highlights Of The Day

I am too exhausted to barely do a post this evening.  Yesterday caught up with me today.

All I managed was a couple of loads of laundry, and a trip to the hardware store today to get paint supplies.

Last week when our 8 year old grandgirl was in a dance recital production of "Grease" she had a wonderful time.  Some more photos her Mom sent me ...

A very sweet confident Briar who I am very proud of.  

Paul & Liz had gotten her flowers for when the 3 day production had wrapped up.  

A very happy little girl I would say.

Rob let his secret out of the bag this morning on how he measure up the scallops on the deck fencing.

The dish on our coffee table had been the pattern he had used to make the scallops.  He gave me a personal demonstration.  Can't say he isn't resourceful now can I ?

Those were the highlights of my day here, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

I Should Not Read Sometimes

This morning Rob and I headed South towards Kitchener.  We were making a quick trip to Costco to get in a supply of food for our Aussies, and a few other items as well.

First stop when we arrived was at Rob's sister's, Delores, as he had to drop something off for his BIL, Daroll.  I was very happy to see Delores in person, as it just isn't the same speaking on the phone.  I am pretty sure the last time we seen each other was last Fall? when we had dinner together at the Mandarin Restaurant.

We were on such a mission I had forgotten to get a photo of them !!  probably Delores was content with the fact that I had.

Next stop was an even quicker surprise visit to my Sister, Donna, who only lives a few blocks away. We also got to see my BIL, Wayne, who sure is not in a good way with the Staph infection he has.  I really felt so bad for him, and hope he gets better much sooner then later.

I got the "are you really going to take a picture" look, then "on command" a very lovely *smile*.  Love my sister, Donna ! 

Shopping at Costco had been a whirlwind, or seemed to be for me.  Our son, Paul, met us there so we got a brief visit with him as well.  Liz is working 12 hour night shifts at the hospital so she was at home sound asleep.  Darn I had also forgotten to get a picture of him too.  I am loosing my touch.

Next stop had been the St. Jacob's Farmer's Market, which was in and out to get Rob and Uncle Basil some Albert Weber Summer Sausage.

Heading on the Expressway from Kitchener Waterloo towards St. Jacob's, we hit a band of rain around Ottawa Street.  It was very humid down there today.  Yes Rob really loves his wheelbarrow as it makes life easier for him to bring in Dog Food and other shopping items when we return back home.

We stopped just outside of Clifford at the Redwood Restaurant for a late lunch.  Rob had a Schnitzel Diner, while I had Liver & Onions with no potato and extra veggies.  They make the BEST Liver & Onions I have ever had ... a treat I always look forward to when we go down that way.

Ha ! Rob had been a bit on the grumpy side today.  His sister says what she usually does with grumpy is leaves him in bed.  I had a good laugh about that one, but I needed my grumpy to go along with me today.  He was just tired, hot and feeling his pain more today after having doing all the fencing on the deck and pressure washing the past couple of days.

Lots of time on the drive down to Kitchener I googled information on Rheumatoid Arthritis.  I should not read sometimes as we don't always read what want to hear, do we?

DID YOU KNOW?

• Arthritis is a leading cause of disability in Canada.
• About one out of every 100 Canadians has rheumatoid arthritis (RA). That's about 300,000 Canadians.
• Anyone can get RA at any age, but it most often appears between the ages of 25 and 50.
• RA affects women three times more often than men.

There is no cure for RA, but when you are diagnosed early and start the right treatment, you can take better control of your disease and often avoid severe damage to your joints. Most people with RA can lead active and productive lives with the help of the right medication, surgery (in some cases), exercise, rest and joint protection techniques.

WHAT IS RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis and an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is one where the body's immune system becomes confused and begins to "attack" the body.

In RA, the target of the immune attack is tissue in the lining of the joints and, sometimes, in other internal organs (such as the eyes, lungs or heart). This causes swelling, pain, inflammation and joint destruction.

RA usually begins slowly, starting in a few joints and then spreading to other joints over a few weeks to a few months. As time goes on, RA involves more and more joints on both sides of the body often in a "symmetrical" pattern. This means if joints in your right hand are swollen, then joints in your left hand will probably be swollen.

The symptoms of RA vary from person to person. Some people have only a few joints involved or mild inflammation, whereas others have many joints involved or severe inflammation. The symptoms of RA also vary from times when the joints feel good to other times (often for no reason at all) when the joints become more stiff, sore and swollen.

The above excerpt was taken from the following link:  http://www.arthritis.ca/page.aspx?pid=982

I had thought the severity of my pain had been getting worse then the muscle aches, as it is in my toes, feet, ankles, legs, knees, hips, hands, fingers, elbows, shoulders, neck, and back.  I should have maybe clued in a few months ago when I started getting the sharp shooting pains, but I did tell my Doctor, and I did still think it to be Fibromyalgia.  My biggest complaint other then the pain is the constant fatigue.  I will try not to jump to further conclusions until I get in to see a Rheumatologist which my Doctor has already referred me to.

Rob and I are all in but for our shirt tails this evening.  Hoping we both get a good night's sleep this evening, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Decks Prepared For Deckover

 It takes me 2 or 3 cups of coffee to get myself unravelled first thing in the mornings most days.  I would never want to give up my mornings regardless as they are the best part of the day.

I tried the new meds today, however the pain was not lessened, however I suppose I must give it a few days to get into my system, then we will see.

... to operate my mouse.

Our Apple Tree is in full bloom.  Is it not beautiful? and I also find it to be very unique with its slanted characteristic. 

Tie a yellow ribbon around the old apple tree ... hope you don't have this going through your head all weekend !!!  hehehehe

Rob was busy most of the day preparing our side deck and front stoop for Deckover.  The bench also got a good cleaning with the pressure washer.  Deckover will be a nice finish and also will not be slippery when it rains and the wood is wet.

Later today my Auntie Gladys was coming up to Wiarton to visit my sister, Jeane, in the hospital, and then head up to Gateway Haven to visit my Mom.  She is always so thoughtful.  I met her up at the hospital to also have a visit with Jeanne.

Auntie took a beautiful Ecuador Rose along for Jeanne.  Jeanne is feeling much much better and they were having a couple of laughs together.  I really love Aunties new summer top she had on, the colour suited her quite nicely.

More on the Roses of Ecudor? please *click* HERE.  They are huge, long lasting and beyond beautiful.

We have a busy weekend ahead of us, as there is always lots to be done ALL the time.  It is suppose to rain tomorrow, however Sunday it should be nice again, as the decking needs to be very dry before the Deckover gets applied, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

A Yummy After 5 Event

Rob was out of bed before I was this morning.  That was an unusual occurrence, and he even took all the Aussies out for me.  That was a real treat.

Rob was still working on the wind breaker fence barrier on our deck this morning.

He not only got the scalloping along the top on the East side done, he also got my new Hummingbird Feeder up.  All I need now is the Hummingbirds to come.

I had a Doctor's appointment this morning, just before lunch, to follow up on the blood work I had a couple of weeks ago.

The run down was Dr. Diodatio suspecting there was a lot more then the Fibromyalgia going on with the amount of  daily chronic pain I have along with the fatigue.  The blood work showed levels of inflammation, indicating suspected Rheumatoid Arthritis.  I was told I had RA in my knees when I was in my 20's, and now it has apparently spread throughout my whole body now.  I have been referred to a Rheumatologist in the Kitchener area so I can be further evaluated and prescribed the correct medication for control of it.  He suspects this is more then likely a big contibuter of my fatigue as well.

As far as the dizziness and balance problems I am still having, I am to start keeping a journal on when and what I am doing when they occur.  Hopefully I am successful at remembering to do this.

I had also been put back on the "high risk" screening for Breast Cancer, given my family history with my Mother, her sister, and their paternal Grandmother.  The Doctor also ordered blood work for Genetic testing as well.  I gave a very big vial of blood today.  I will hear back from his office should the results be positive, otherwise I will be back to see him in another 2 months.

After my appointment I slipped in to see my sister, Jeanne, to take her a couple of bananas, and a very quick visit before going for the blood work.  She looked much better today, however is to have more testing and remain there for a few more days.

After lunch I had an appointment at the Wiarton Chamber of Commerce office at 1:30, which lasted a good hour, then I headed to the pharmacy to collect my prescriptions.

Back home I had myself a bit of a rest until it was time to go to the Chamber Member's After 5 event this evening.   I first went down to The Painted Turtle & Balloon Headquarters to collect fellow chamber member/owner, Wenda Bartley, to go along with me.

Hosting this Month's After 5 Event was Chamber Member, Luscious Bakery Deli Cafe, located downtown Wiarton.

The spread of goodies was unbelievably soooo GOOD.  I tried a couple of canapes, a very small piece of cheesecake, and chocolate cake with Butter cream icing .... oh heavenly it all was.

Along with Chamber President, Paul Deacon, Board Directors, a nice crowd of local Business owners, was also Mayor Janice Jackson.  Mayor Janice spoke some very supporting words on how pro-active the Wiarton District Chamber of Commerce was in the Community, which was nice to hear as I certainly know how much work goes on behind the scenes by the Chamber, and its sub-committees, the Wiarton Willie Festival  and the Wiarton Revitalisation Committees.

I am very happy Mayor Janice is a big supporter of local business and the expansion of our community.

Owner's & hosts of this evenings After 5 Event, were Christian and Karen Koos of the Luscious Bakery Deli, partnered with Community Living in Wiarton.  They also have had Luscious Bakery in Sauble Beach for the past couple of years, just opening this year in Wiarton.  They are a welcomed business within our Community, and really with all their homemade lunches and goodies who wouldn't support them? 

Oh the ones photo bombing in the background? that would be Tom of Rural Rootz Nature Reserve, and Wenda Bartley of The Painted Turtle & Balloon Headquarters ... fun fun people !

I returned back home to find Rob back working some more on the deck.  He is almost done.

I asked Rob to take a photo of my new T-Shirt I had gotten the other day at Josie's of Wiarton which I wore tonight, and he caught my "impatient" look until he took another photo.  I LOVE supporting LOCAL ! don't you?  I was also very  happy to be the very first winner of the door prizes at this evenings event.  Oh yum, Lemon Curd, Speciality Honey Mustard & Sumatra Coffee Grounds.  Lucky me ! (again Holly Morrow, hahaha, still waiting to win another Cluttered Cupboard fantastic Give Aways !).

With another full day behind me I am feeling as weary as I was this morning before I got going after a couple of hours before starting my day, however all is good, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

What To Say?

Really what to say? today, I have really not too much at all to say.  Do you ever have one or a few of those days when it is difficult to even remember what you did? of course, I am certain we all have days like that.

One thing I did do was meet up with a gal at the Hepworth Tim Hortons at 11:30 am, as she had bought a Wireless Pet Containment unit I had for sale on Kijiji.  Last Fall we had purchased two, realizing this Spring one was sufficient enough area for Portia, so I feel I was fortunate to sell the "extra" one which hadn't even been opened.

Back home it was some lunch, then manning the phones for Rob while he had some fun cutting the lawn.  A lawn which used to take me at least 3 hours to cut takes him seemly no time at all, and he can "turn on a dime" with it as well.

New toys are always first fun, then somehow for some reason become "work".  How does that happen, I wonder?

I was noticing our lilac bush had begun to bloom.  It was to be a miniature bush, but seems quite large to me.  I also just noticed Bandit had "photo bombed" this picture.  No privacy at all around here some days.

It must be going to rain this evening as my body is aching more then usual being a sure sign.  I even had a bit of a lay down this afternoon as the fatigue got a little much for me.  Tomorrow I have a followup with my Doctor for some bloodwork I had done 2 weeks ago.

This evenings dinner was done on the BBQ, as this morning I had seasoned some Pork Ribs.

Baked Potato, BBQ'd Ribs & fresh steamed Asparagus.

This evening there is a risk of a thunderstorm in our area.  I love a good thunder banger, don't you? especially when it is through the night time.  No wonder I am feeling weary, even though darkness has yet to take over the skies, it is evening as in 7:30 pm, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Lots Of New New New ! And A Bit of Old.

Don't you absolutely LOVE waking up each morning to a new day and a new adventure ahead of you?  Now I am feeling better then I have for many months I have begun to again, baby steps.

I had a "new" photo sent to me on the weekend of my boys being silly.  Yes, Paul, Aiden & I can touch our noses with our tongues ... silly fun.  Shoot my nose or tongue must have shrunk cause I can't do it anymore !!

When I had been at the Wiarton Chamber of Commerce office yesterday morning, Wiarton Willie had been out and it was noticed he was blowing his old coat with a "new" one coming in.

Yesterday I had been invited along with the SBP Economic Tourism Officer to go along on behalf of the WDCC for a meeting at the "new" and improved Red Bay Lodge, in Red Bay of course.  The Lodge has been around for many many years with lots of fantastic memories of days long gone by the locals and families who vacationed there for years.  About 10 years ago or so it had been purchased, afterwards spiraling downhill to almost total ruins.  Just last Year a investor from Brampton saved the Lodge, seeing its potential and it is making a "new" comeback with astounding support coming from the Community.

The restaurant, Tilted Anterz, is now up and running for breakfast, lunches, and dinners.  Open daily except for Tuesdays.  Pete is the "new" manager, along with Sherry, and Chef Angus, who all have a great vision going forward with the revamping of bringing the Red Bay Lodge back to life.  Thanks to Pete, who I am pictured with, for treating Danielle and I to a great lunch prepared by Chef Angus.  Yes behind the bar is the "new" famous Tilted Antlerz lite up in splendor overlooking the dining area.

More about the Red Bay Lodge? check it out by *clicking* HERE for their Facebook Page.  Looking forward to them becoming one of our newest Chamber Members.

Rob has been busy the last few days building "new" wind breaker walls on our deck on the East & West exposures.  We get strong winds prevailing mostly from the West.  Not quite finished yet as he is planning to make it a bit more special by scalloping along the top.

A "new" day also meant my sister, Jeanne, was feeling a bit better then previous days.  Joanne, Cecil and I had a visit with her late this afternoon.  

Another "new" for Bruce/Grey Counties !  the Grand Opening of the Bruce Grey Music Hall of Fame at the Hepworth Shallow Lake Legion.  Book early as I most certainly can see this being a "sell out" ! which would be nothing "new", now would it?  More about the Legion news can be found by *clicking* HERE.

Should my father, Fritz (Harold) Masterson still be alive today, he would LOVE attending the Legion in his hometown of Hepworth, this I know as being the truth, as he loved Country Western music.

For all the "new" the past couple of days today I was faced with some very old old old yuck when I was cleaning the bathroom.  Yes it was time to clean the drain out .... oh YUCK, but someone had to do the dirty work or it wouldn't ever get done.  

Funny how getting just most of the bathroom cleaned today made me feel a bit better in the sense of accomplishment.  Hopefully tomorrow I can get something else done, and then should a day come I ever get it all done, I will have to go back to the beginning and start all over again, now won't I?

It is stinking how with a high of 36*C out front without the humidity, and 27*C inside.  Am I going to complain after the cold cold Winter we just had?   I wouldn't be a Canadian if I didn't complain about the weather, now would I ?

That is all she wrote this day, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Where Did That Day Go?

Truly this day got away from me, as I ask myself, "where did that day go?"

I messed around from the time I got up until I had to leave for an appointment I had to meet up with Danielle Mulasmajic, Economic Development Officer for the Town of South Bruce Peninsula. Danielle and I headed up North to meet up with the Manager of a business establishment being resurected by it's new owner.  More on this and photographs to follow tomorrow, so stay tuned as we most certainly were not disappointed.

Once we had returned back to Wiarton, mid-afternoon, I met up with a girlfriend of mine at the Tim Hortons for about a 25 minute coffee before she had to be at her Doctors appointment.  We hadn't seen each other since she had returned from from Africa where her husband had been stationed.  That has been 2 years now I think about it.  We have been friends since our early teens, and you would never know to see us together that we had any parted time of years between our friendship.  I love my dear friends who never change and we remain friends over the years.

I did manage to be back home for a brief time before Rob headed out on a call at 6:30, and I headed up to the Wiarton Hospital to visit with my Sister, Jeanne.  I stayed with her her until 8:30, just getting back home shortly after 9 pm.

I stopped at the store on my way home to get some salad fixings for our Dinner, which I am off to make up some now for myself.

Oh yes what a beautiful sky we had this evening which I took all in on my drive home tonight !

To be continued tomorrow ..... Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Fluffy Not Stuffy

Last night, just before 10 pm, I got a text from my niece, Joanne, that she took my sister, Jeanne, into the Wiarton Hospital.  She had fallen about 4 times yesterday.  It just so happens her family doctor was on call in the Emergency Department.

I went up this morning however Jeanne was sound asleep.  I went back an hour later and actually seen the Doctor, who told me she was going to be admitted for a couple of days as she was extremely dehydrated.  She was getting over a bout of pneumonia so it could all be related.  My brother, Al & I, went back up mid-morning briefly so Al could offer her husband, Cecil, to stay at his place while she was in the hospital.

I just got another phone call this evening from my other sister, Donna, that her husband, Wayne, was taken up to the Emergency Dept in Kitchener by their daughter, Jodi Lynn.  He was running a fever all day, achy and had a bad rash on his leg.  Oh my goodness he had gone through a life threatening bout with a staffa infection in his leg last Summer, the worse case they had ever seen.

Donna will call me back in an hour or so to give me an update.

My Rob was feeling under the weather today as well with a headache, sweating and dizziness.  This getting older is for the Birds !!!!  and our family is falling apart, seemingly all at once.

Today I only managed to get our bedding striped, washed and line dried, and the steps/foyer all cleaned and scrubbed.  Better then nothing I suppose.

This afternoon Rob was out on a couple of calls.  Late this afternoon he was called out to Owen Sound so Bandit and I went along with him.  Unbeknownst to our dear Bandit, he was going to the Pet Wash.

Bandit is now "fluffy, not stuffy", although he was not too impressed until after it was all over as you can tell by his *smile*.

We got back home not too long ago.  I still have to make up our bed with the fresh bedding, so off I go, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Nothing Was Done AGAIN !

I can honestly say nothing was done again at home.  When am I ever going to "get it together"?  I most certainly hope before I completely lose myself.

Other then getting nothing done, I had a fantastic time at the Heels & Hammer Event at the Wiarton Home Building Centre.  Have a "look see" yourself at the photos by *clicking* HERE.  And today I had also been invited to an OPEN house by Revell Real Estate Wiarton.  Oh my what I could do with a few hundred thousand dollars or more ... and the view over Colpoy's Bay is unbelievable !  See for yourself by *clicking* HERE, and don't forget to click on the video tab for an introduction of the home in person by Mike Revell.

I am so very grateful to be part of such an amazing Community.  Life took me down a long road, but I finally feel I belong, and that is a very good feeling.

The only thing I am not too much at peace with is our home.  It is hopefully not my forever home, as I need something all on one floor on a nice piece of property with a pond or water running through it, and lots of room for the Aussies to safely run without the worry of a Highway.  I will hold tight to this dream of mine, as dreams do come true, and I hope I will still be well enough and young enough to enjoy whenever it comes to be.

Really though I am grateful for having family and friends who love me, healthy amazing grandchildren and a piece of the World which is clean and safer then many other places out there.

What blessings are you grateful for in your life?

This afternoon I went out on a little shopping spree for myself.  At the Nurse's Luncheon & Fashion show I had attended, everyone there had received a $20.00 Gift Certificate for Josie's of Wiarton, on purchased over $50.00.  I took advantage of this savings today.

I walked away with a casual fun outfit today for less then $100.00.  The T with "Local is the New Black" is what I wanted since I had first seen it on Josie's of Wiarton's Facebook page.  The jeans are Capris, and can be casual or fancy enough to "dress up" too.

Lots of great stuff behind the doors of Josie's of Wiarton.  Check out her Facebook page by *clicking* HERE.  Josie also has a couple of clothes lines for the full figured ladies as well, so do not hesitate on stopping by, just in case something catches your eye.

We had homemade hamburgers for our Dinner this evening.  I also had raw mushrooms with Curry Mayo Dip ... oh so yum yum yum.

I hope I get to stay home tomorrow as I, once again, have big plans to get much done, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Boys & Their Toys

A little piece of my amazing World as I see it ,,,

Morning.

Evening.

As for "boys & their toys", a little piece of my Rob's amazing World as he sees it ....

A new Simplicity 27 HP Lawn tractor (with a roll bar), and a big pile of gravel, delivered today for his moving around pleasure.

The Lawn Tractor was decided on after we have over the years many many used ones which keep breaking down and requiring very expensive belts.  Rob bought this Demo, which had 1/2 hour of time on it, after selling a Push Mower, the broken down Lawn Tractor, and our 9n Tractor.

Hopefully the 3 year warranty holds true for any future requirements if needed, and also it was bought locally as an added bonus on knowing who we were dealing with.  Thanks Pinkertons !

I am now off to a Ladies Night ....

Heels & Hammers Ladies Night at the Wiarton Home Building Centre

Ladies this is one event you won't want to miss out on ! This evening, May 22, 2015 at 6:30 pm.

Guests: 
Darrin Nobile from Beautitone Paints
Josies of Wiarton
Complete Wellness
Epicure
Scentsy
Jewellery By Gail McClay

Door Prizes:
Gift Certificate for Paint- $100.00
Gift Certificate for Kuraidori-$100.00
Gift Certificate for Home Bldg. Centre-$100.00

"Specials":
In store Coupons, 40% off Woodshed Stain & Designer Series Paint, & 30% Off All Kuraidori Products

Be ready for some NEW Decor ideas & LOTS of fun !

What a deal on the Series Paint !  I will be picking some up for our new doors (we just got for free yesterday), the trim needing redone, and a galleon for our bedroom.  I will also be busy taking photos at this Event.

I best be off to get my camera battery put back into my camera, along with the SD card, before checking out, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Progress In The Works

I can not believe I slept at least 12 hours last night !  I could not go any longer and went to bed at 6 pm.  I woke up long enough at 9 pm to take my meds, call my son, Paul, and have a bathroom break, then it was back to sleep until after 5 am this morning.

When I got up, I looked after the Aussies, put in a load of laundry, and then thought of going back to bed feeling like my body was weighed down with a ton of bricks.  I somehow managed to push myself and got going.

I was very proud as I made a big dent in cleaning part of the kitchen today, and getting a bit of paperwork done as well.  Yes there had been some progress in the works today.

I also got the new Hummingbird Feeder, I had bought a few weeks ago, unpacked.  I just need Rob to mount the hanger for me to put it on then i will be ready to fill and put out.  I had also sold our Bunn Coffee Maker, since we bought a Keurig it had only been collecting dust on the counter and taking up space.  We really wasted more in it then we drank so it was not a bad thing I sold it.  I also got a huge box of stuff taken to the Sally Ann, dropped off 4 filing containers to my Brother, and got a box of stuff to go out to the RV.  

Mid-morning, a Canpar truck pulled in our driveway.  I was wondering what was arriving on my doorstep now.

I could not believe I received the new pair of BOGS already ! now that is Customer Service.  Thank you BOGS !!  I also thought the pair available to me was only in red (not my fav colour), and was even more happy to see they were green.  First thing to check was the nice soft tongue, which should not dig into my legs when wearing.  I would never hesitate to buy another pair of BOGS in the future, for their comfort, durability and guarantee.

More on BOGS?  just *click* HERE.

I most certainly had wanted to have a lay down today, but that did not happen for me.  By late afternoon I could barely talk as I had been slurring and stumbling with my words.  Fatigue does get the better of one, does it not?

I had to go downtown to do a couple of errands.  One was to stop round to the Wiarton Chamber office as The "Crabby Cabbie" is to be the Featured Chamber Business this week, and I needed to provide them with a photo.

Outside the Chamber office is where Wiarton Willie lives.  On my arrival I noticed he had been out having himself an early dinner.

He is quite the character some days, although a little discoloured from his long Winter slumber.

More on Wiarton's little celebrity? just *click* HERE.

Tomorrow night I am attending the Heels & Hammers at the Wiarton Building Centre.  More details on that by going to their Facebook Page by *clicking* HERE.

Rob got tired of messing around with used Lawn Tractors, and with the size of property we have we do need a lawn tractor.  He went out yesterday and bought a brand new one, since he sold our little Ford 9n tractor.  This one had better last us the remainder of our Lifetime.  At least it came with a 3 year warranty on parts and labour, and it was purchased locally.  More to follow on this new purchase along with photos.

For today? that is all she wrote, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Allergy Season

Is your throat scratchy, ear(s) congested that you can barely hear out of them, and your eyes itchy and burning? then I could very well tell you are experiencing allergy season with a BANG !

I have had an antihistamine already today which gave me no relief whatsoever.  It is 4:07 pm and I am ready for bed, caring less about dinner, or much else for that matter.  Fatigue gets to me on the best of days, and it feels like a whole ocean is inside my left ear and my head is going to float away.

The other night, after I had cut the lawn, not only did all these symptoms appear but the palms of my hands also broke out from holding onto the metal handle of the lawn mower.  Cortisone cream gave me relief for that, and the next day I wore gloves to cut more of the lawn.

Geesh, if it isn't one thing attacking me it is something else.  I am truly starting to feel like a hypochondriac even though I know this not to be true.

Nope it is NOT a cold, *click* HERE.

Every Year I hear, "this is the worse year for allergies".  True or False?  I believe it is False, as EVERY YEAR is BAD for people who suffer from seasonal allergies.

I did weekly allergy shots for a good few years.  What a "pain in the backside", however they did help me build a non-existent immune system to where I am today.  Hopefully I do not have to go back to that weekly regiment.

I had wonderful plans for myself on the home front today, but my plans for such matters are always and continuously broken.  I did however get two invoices sent out on behalf of my Crabby Cabbie hubby, and made a trip to my Doctor`s appointment which was not today, as I screwed up with it being a week from today, also I accomplished sorting out a few things to either sell or give away.

Far from the plans I originally had but still something is better then nothing, and at least my bed got made.

4:38 pm and I am heading to mess up my bed, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Amazing Customer Service

I am beyond amazed at the Customer Service I have received from Bogs Canada in the past 24 hours.  Their guarantee is 100% ! and you most certainly do not get that just anywhere now a days, do you?

I emailed them last night with the problem with my bogs, after wearing them for a lengthy time cutting the lawn, and heard back from them by 8 am this morning.  I sent them off a photo of the inside tag, and they emailed me some choices for replacement.  The replacements have been ordered and will be shipped out to me.

100% happy with the amazing customer service from Bogs Canada !  and would never hesitate buying another pair of boots from them in the future.

I would like to know who turned Winter back on ?  7*C with cold western winds was a rude awaking first thing this morning.  I was hoping the humidity would be gone, not expecting to go back to putting socks and shoes again !  Holy cold Batman ! you will be freezing the Robins back down South again.

First thing this morning I was sitting in the Lab of the Wiarton Hospital at 7:30 am so I could get my bloodwork done and get out of there lickity split.  I was back home about 1 1/2 when the phone rang.  It had been the lab ... could I go back down as they had overlooked something and needed another vial of blood from me.  Off I went down and back again.

At 10 am I called Gateway Haven to ask them to order a lunch for me as I was going up to have a visit with my Mother.  We had a nice lunch, and I had also taken her along a couple of nice blouses.  I had asked her if she wanted to go out for lunch sometime, and she told me "yes, for a hot dog and ice cream".  Guess when the weather gets warmer that is what we will be doing.

Believe it or not I was still whooped right out and it really hit me after lunch.  Yes I had a lay down, however did not sleep.  About 3:45 pm I had to head out on another errand, so I am STILL tired.

We had a light dinner of a BBQ'd hamburger and green salad with cucumber and mushrooms.  My new "favourite" salad dressing is Kraft Berry Balsamic ... very yummy, and only 30 calories per tablespoon.

For some reason my usual left ear is plugged as I am congested.  It feels like an ocean of waves inside there.  I hate that feeling.  I have tried plugging my nose to get it to pop, but nothing is giving.  Next I will give an antihistamine a try.

Tonight is the 2nd last elimination of talent on The "Voice".  It will be another great show again I am
thinking.

16 year old Sawyer Fredericks has our Vote.

.

Rob just got the wood stove "fired" up as I am finding it a bit on the chilly side in here, and I want to be cozy and warm when I watch The "Voice" at 8 pm, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Almost Done

Rob was so tired last night, and I was so tired as well.  The difference was Rob got called out through the night and only got about 4 hours sleep.  I was exhausted from all the lawn cutting yesterday.

After I had taken the Aussies all out this morning I went back to bed until 9 pm !  can I believe I did that? hardly.  All day long I was exhausted.  It did not help with the day being full of humidity, sucking the life out of us.

I managed to do another load of laundry and got the centre of the lawn almost done.  We need to think of a solution quick about the lawn tractor not working as I don't think I can keep this up all Summer long, or I will never get anything else done !!!

I got almost 3/4 of the front horseshoe cut before I could do no more, but then again it had been time to go in for a dinner of BBQ t-bone, baked taters and veggies Rob had made for us.

I had gotten a pair of Bogs last Fall, and have only worn them in short bouts.  I got them for taking the dogs out in the mornings when the grass is wet, and to cut the lawn, as not to wreck my running shoes.

The Bogs are very comfortable, however after all the lawn cutting they cut into my legs.  I am very disappointed, especially since Bogs are not cheap to buy.

I  have emailed Bogs Canada customer service to see if this has been an issue with these boots.  Hopefully I hear back this week with an update.

More on Bogs? just *click* HERE.

The "Voice" is on in an hour.  It is getting down to the wire with only 4 left in the running, and 2 will be eliminated, I believe, tomorrow night.

Hope everyone had a great Victoria Day Holiday Weekend ! for us? it was just another weekend trying to get things done, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Highlights Of The Day

I feel I slept rather well last evening, until I heard Rob come in at 4 am, but I stayed in bed until 6 am.
After the Aussies were all looked after I got going on the laundry as it was going to be a "hang out the laundry" kind of day.  I managed to get a couple of large loads done (cheap hydro).  Then I settled in to have a morning coffee, or two.

Rob couldn't get to sleep when he got home so I had found him on the couch with the TV going.

Portia also found him and promptly began licking his feet, which he never felt when I asked him later.  When he did get up later he was a Starvin' Marvin, so we ended up having a breakfast at 11:30 am down at the Green Door Cafe.  As usual it was very good.

When we got home I hung the 2nd load of laundry out.

Highlights of the Day:

Portia got a "bear bell" put on her collar today so when she is outside I have an easier time keeping track of her whereabouts.  You can tell who is popular with Rob, can you not, as Bandit & Portia were leaning right into him on the front stoop.  Yes I did almost 5 miles today, and how did that happen one might wonder?  Our lawn tractor is broke down (again), and our lawn was getting out of control after all the rain we had.   It took me quite awhile however I got r all done other then the centre of our horseshoe drive.  Another day.

  That was pretty much the long and the short of my day.  I have just finished off two cups of my favourite Green Mountain Blueberry Coffee, will be taking Portia out for a big of a run then calling it a night with my feet up shortly, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

A Fun Shopping Morning

Yesterday was such a drab wet & cold day, but it was made much better mid-day when a Crabby Cabbie customer gifted a dozen of their fresh farm brown eggs.  I love there is still "giving" people, and truly there are many in our Community.  We also have a couple very strong Service Clubs who do much.

Quite awhile ago friends, Lois and Tess, and I had made plans to go along with Tess to help her find an outfit to wear to the upcoming June wedding for her niece.  We met up at 10 am and headed North towards Lion's Head.

We first stopped along Hwy. 6 at the Handicraft House where Tess found a light flowy dress suitable for the wedding and a really nice top to wear with slacks for the shower.   Next stop in Lion's Head was a cute little clothes shop, The Cottage.  Well worth the stop in should you be up that way.  After there we headed to Marydale's Restaurant for a light lunch, then made our way back home by 2 pm.

It had been a fun shopping morning, and I really scored some great stuff today, as later on I dropped on into the Thrift Store.

This very very nice belt I got at The Cottage for $8.00, reg. $34.95.  At the thrift shop I got the first pile of blouses for Mom, the other one for me, as well as a pair of jeans, all for $31.00 !  A couple are name brands, such as Mex, Yest and Tribal ... nice scores !

This morning Rob was down at our local grocery store where he picked up some fixings for our dinner this evening.

We had a totally YUMMY dinner of grilled T-Bone steak, baked potato and veggies.  He got these huge steaks marked down with 50% off ! with still 2 days on them for best before.  We split one and will have the other one tomorrow night.

After dinner I tackled the front lawn to get in some exercise today, since I didn't accomplish much of anything else in the way of housework today.

Rob traded in the heavy lawnmower he had bought me a few years ago for this self propelled Toro ... much easier and lighter !  I also really am happy with my Bogs as they save my other shoes from being ruined with fresh wet grass.

Tomorrow I have big plans to get lots done, and hope I didn't just jinx myself by mentioning that !!!

How is everyone doing with the 52 Week Money Challenge?  I have been moving right along on track with lots of things needing done around here to be done.  Still lots of time to think on what I will be doing with my savings.

That is all she wrote, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

MAY 2-4 Weekend Flashbacks !

What were you doing back in the 70's on the May 2-4 Weekends (aka Victoria Day Weekend) ?  most people I grew up with in Southampton and Port Elgin, and hanging out with in Sauble Beach were "rocking out" ....

May 2-4 Weekend Flashbacks !!!

One of my ALL TIME favourites ....

Growing up in the late 60's & 70's were some of the best times in the History of Rock & Roll, and this girl would go back there any time if she could.  Would you?

That is all she wrote, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkeboard.

Too Busy Too Tired

Both poor Rob and I have been way too busy and too tired this day.  For some of us there is no "happy medium" unfortunately, especially when one has their own business with irregular hours.  However people have to try and make a living the best they can

We finally got our income tax completed, signed and electronically filed hopefully tomorrow once returned back to our accountants.  That is one big thing off our plates again until next year.

A beautiful sunset last evening, but a heavy frost early this morning.  Hope nobody lost any new plantings.

It had been a little on the cool side here today, however the Sun was nice and I did manage to get one load of laundry out on the line to dry if nothing else.  I kinda swept the floor and put the dishes from the dishwasher away too, but man my whole house needs rehauling.

This evening I had a Chamber Meeting.  I am withdrawing from one of the duties I took on as a lead, so hopefully that will cut back on some of the meetings for me other then the once a month meeting.
I need to begin concentrating on my home, our business and my health.  Also with my Sons upcoming Wedding that has been on my mind, as well as a few other Life events.

Rob and I had attended an Open House for the new Berford StArtisan Co.(previously the Home Hardware), owned by Paul & Joan Deacon, last night.  Rob had himself a little fun ....

My Crabby Cabbie found his own "lift" !

Looking for a "spot" for your artistic "unique" creations? please contact Paul Deacon @ befordstartisanco@gmail.com

With the Victoria Day Holiday Weekend fast approaching Rob has also gotten himself booked pretty much for the whole day tomorrow.  I guess I will be holding down the fort.

I am tired and worn out.  Off to put my feet up for a bit then to our bed shortly after, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

What A "Fun" Luncheon !

Myself, neighbour Lois, my Auntie Gladys and Cousin Vi, all met up at the Wiarton Propeller Club today for the Nurse's Week Luncheon & Fashion Show.

We had gotten a table in front of the "runway" so I could get some, hopefully, good photos of the models.  Lois and Vi looked on as Auntie counted out the loot I had reimbursed her for booking the facility for our upcoming Masterson Reunion this Summer.  Too cute.

The Propeller Club volunteers put on a totally awesome luncheon of quiche, pasta Alfredo, mixed veggies & spinach salad with homemade raspberry dressing.  Desserts squares & beverages were also available.

One of Wiarton's local nurses contributed Nurse's Uniforms from the past to be modelled by, yes of course, the nurses who modelled Josie's of Wiarton fashions.

Josie Myles of Jose's of Wiarton is a huge supporter in our community.  The cost of the tickets had been $20.00 with proceeds going to the Propeller Club, and she reimbursed everyone with a Gift Card in the amount of $20.00 for her store.  I looked at it as a win, win situation for me, as she has lots of fantastic fashions in her store.  To see the models in action with fashions from Josie's of Wiarton, please *click* HERE.  Easier for me as there were so many photos I had taken today !

When I finally did get back home today Rob had been out with Lexus ...

Lexus was "lapping" up the attention she was getting from Rob.

Don't think I mentioned, but I had also had a morning meeting, and now heading out shortly to an OPEN HOUSE downtown Wiarton to a new business adventure Paul Deacon has taken on.  Yes there will be photos tomorrow .... of course.

On that note I will be off and running, leaving Rob & the Aussies to hold down the fort,  Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.