I am beyond feeling sick, hopefully getting to my own Doctor on Monday, as I still have fever and extreme weakness, unable to eat much with no appetite.
Happy New Years Eve ! Drive safe by taking a local "Crabby Cabbie" in your area.
This took me to long to type, so I best now be signing off here, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".
Showing posts with label 2011. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2011. Show all posts
Saturday, 31 December 2011
Friday, 23 December 2011
A Busy Productive Day With Lots Of Rewards !
This one is for you workaholics out there. Yes, work is very important and productive but you need to take some time to chill out everyday or you are going to burn out faster than a candle with no oxygen. Additionally, you need to reward yourself for a job well done. What’s the use of doing all of that work if you can’t have a little fun from time to time anyways?This Life Secret & Tip sounds exactly how my Yesterday went with the rewards arriving throughout .... lots of "fun" was had at the end."The day began in the glory of the Sun with it not lasting the whole of the day."
It carried on with Rob and I working as a team getting floors vacuumed and washed, a Venison Roast with veggies into the Slow Cooker, and a trip downtown to pickup those few things that had been forgotten on the last trip to the store.
We had arrived back home and pulled into our driveway as our Mail Lady was depositing mail into our Mailbox.
"Once I settled from the excitement of receiving such a thoughtful amazing gift, I got back to business at hand by getting an Apple Pie prepared and baked for after our Supper."
After a supper of Venison Roast and dessert of still warm Apple Pie, we all had some "down time" before it was "shut eye" time.
Not long after this, we all called it a night. A day full of productive accomplishments, along with many unexpected and expected rewards. The best of the best kind of day my Yesterday was !I am thinking there might be some "snow" for Christmas, as snowing it was around 5 am, when little Missy Mercedes and I were out this morning. I will check in with the Wiarton Airport Weatherman to see what he has to say about the "snow" situation.
Not the usual picture of the weather forecast, as I am not in my usual "blog spot" this morning, as my "spot" has been otherwise occupied, by the "Rip-tail Snorters". There it is though, in black and white, "flurries" maybe to stay for Christmas ...... "Do You Hear What I Hear?"Lot of plans and fun hopefully in my day ahead, with a new adventure I am looking forward to embracing, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".
It carried on with Rob and I working as a team getting floors vacuumed and washed, a Venison Roast with veggies into the Slow Cooker, and a trip downtown to pickup those few things that had been forgotten on the last trip to the store.
"I am thinking for the 22nd of December, our local Foodland store is getting to be a little bit like the Walmart photo sagas?"
We had arrived back home and pulled into our driveway as our Mail Lady was depositing mail into our Mailbox.
"This is the kind of bill I wish I was receiving in my mail ALL the time !"
"I had also received this beautiful book, I had won on a draw by commenting on the We Are Pet Nation's website, for their weekly Book Draw. Nice !"
"All the ingredients were gathered together, with the spinach thawing, making sure they were all ready for when Holly arrived to teach her how to make a Classic Spinach Dip."
"Then onto the preparation of two Lasagna for Friday's Dinner."
"After the Crabby Cabbie had left for work, somebody took a "relaxing" break, while I sat for a bit enjoying a coffee before I headed out for a walk with my friend, Sharon."
"Through Wiarton's Bluewater Park, looking out towards this day's calm over Colpoy's Bay."
"Along the "boardwalk", should this couple not be gone South by now?"
"Arriving back home after a most "relaxing" walk, a surprise was at our stair top. I had thought Rob had maybe surprised me with an unexpected Christmas gift, only to read the tag to find out if was from our Mechanic and his wife ! I am gratified to be so kindly thought of to have received such a "astounding" gift ! Wow the totally unexpected gesture, along with an amazing kindness attached. One of my favorites, an "Angel Bear"."
"Once I settled from the excitement of receiving such a thoughtful amazing gift, I got back to business at hand by getting an Apple Pie prepared and baked for after our Supper."
"The moment finally arrived when my "Crew" all showed up, with Mercedes welcoming them all in, one by one."
"Holly's *smile* was a good indication that she was happy to be here!"
"Holly even came bearing gifts of Holiday Pretzel Treats, with Mint M & M centers."
After a supper of Venison Roast and dessert of still warm Apple Pie, we all had some "down time" before it was "shut eye" time.
"Mercedes & Connor right into the Artwork."
"Aiden layed all back "relaxed" and "chilling" out."
"Here is my boy, Paul, with his famous "knock it off with the camera, Mom" look."
Not long after this, we all called it a night. A day full of productive accomplishments, along with many unexpected and expected rewards. The best of the best kind of day my Yesterday was !I am thinking there might be some "snow" for Christmas, as snowing it was around 5 am, when little Missy Mercedes and I were out this morning. I will check in with the Wiarton Airport Weatherman to see what he has to say about the "snow" situation.
Not the usual picture of the weather forecast, as I am not in my usual "blog spot" this morning, as my "spot" has been otherwise occupied, by the "Rip-tail Snorters". There it is though, in black and white, "flurries" maybe to stay for Christmas ...... "Do You Hear What I Hear?"Lot of plans and fun hopefully in my day ahead, with a new adventure I am looking forward to embracing, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".
Wednesday, 21 December 2011
Some Interruptions Can Turn Out To Be The Best !
It has been said and proven time and time again that what you focus on is what you get. If you complain all of the time, you will run into more of the things you complain about. The same goes for good things like health, wealth and happiness. So spend some time in the morning imagining yourself achieving whatever it is that you currently desire. Focus is key in this exercise, so choose a quiet environment where you won’t be disturbed. If you’re having trouble focusing and continually find that your mind has wandered to something else, read about meditation in the following life tip. I am thinking this Life Secret & Tip by the author is pretty much along the line of "positive thinking" as well. However I do recall a few times in my life focusing on a particular thing and it coming to pass. Maybe I do not totally understand what the author is relaying, but that is "okay", as I think I got the part about the complaining all the time, and hope I, myself, do not constantly do this, contrary to the beliefs of others, no names to be mentioned at this time ! LOLWith Christmas being just around the corner, with my baking and presents all looked after, or so I hope they are, I thought it should be the time I tackle the task of some routine, or not so routine, cleaning chores yesterday. When my plans do not go according as planned, I find I am starting to get much better at not being too disturbed by that happening. For instance, when a trip downtown was apparently necessary before I got started on "my" plans, or a little someone needing let out when I have been right in the middle of something...... then there are the unexpected interruptions which put a smile on my face. My Yesterday, just before the lunch hour, being one of these same unexpected moments I speak of ....
"My brother-in-law, Al, was up from Tara, around the Wiarton area, and just thought he would stop in to see Rob & I. What a most pleasant surprise ! Coffee and goodies were served as we enjoyed our visit together. As you can tell, proof I was making an attempt at cleaning is evidenced by the vacuum cleaner cord still laying out across the floor ! LOL."
Once Al had headed out for his home in Tara, lunch was made easy for Rob and I by just heating up Shepherd Pie leftovers from the day before. After lunch was cleaned up from, I thought I had better be gathering up the recipes and such, I had laying across the loveseat beside where I usually sit with my laptop.
"I couldn't believe I had such a pile accumulated in the past couple of weeks. This pile of recipes has some pretty good stuff in it, so I am thinking when I do get around to organizing it, there isn't going to be too much "tossed" from it."
Since we didn't do a Christmas tree this year, as I was thinking it would be too much with limited space in our living room area having little Missy Mercedes, I still found a spot to hang my gift I had received the other day from my friend, Colleen.
"Isn't it "unique"? "Side by Side or Far Apart, Friends are always in your Heart". Each side of the saying, as my and Colleen's name inside a Heart. My Heart was touched."
I did manage to get out this afternoon to go for a walk with my friend, Sharon, also making a find at a local Wiarton Store of a red Christmas tablecloth to have its festive colours in place for our Christmas Dinner. Not getting home until at least late afternoon, I made myself a light lunch of eggs and toast, before I started getting at the spare bedroom. I am please to say that other then all the Christmas presents still on the bed in there, I "got 'r done", so bring on the Company !!! not until Thursday night of course, as there is still more, and always, cleaning to be done !!!"This is my little "niche" in the spare bedroom where I have spent my most every morning since the Month of March 2011, and where I sit this very moment."
That was pretty much my Yesterday, with me feeling it was full and rewarding in itself by way of the people who were in it, to what accomplishments and dents I made in my cleaning "plans".I received the coolest email yesterday ! It totally amazes me how creative people out there are blessed with so much talent and knowledge ..... I can't wait until I get our grandson, Aiden, to try this out when he is here for Christmas.http://www.drawastickman.com/ Very clever, very clever indeed. Never mind our grandson, I am going to get Rob to try it out today, as it was fun when I did it. Thanks to our Port Elgin friend, Bob, for sending me this one, as I so enjoyed doing it !I had also received a weird email yesterday from my Doctor's email address, with nothing of importance coming to mind in the link attached to it. Should anyone have received such an email from my address, it was NOT sent by me, and is more likely SPAM (advertisers looking for a free ride via someone else's email contact list) which has attached itself to my email address. I have done two complete full virus scans on my computer, and happy to say I have not came across any viruses, so I am hoping this stands true. One of the unpleasantness of the Internet, as unfortunately there are many "evil" doers out in the World of computers too.Oh man, there is still the livingroom to be dusted and vacuumed, the bathroom to be gone over, the floors to be mopped, and goodness knows what else I could find that needs doing before the arrival of our "Rip-tail Snorters" this Thursday evening. It will ALL be in need of redoing once they take their leave Saturday .... lol, but will have been all worth it having them here with us.I have reserved today for cleaning and tomorrow for preparing the Lasagna I am making for our Dinner on Friday. Hopefully I will be somewhat organized by the time they get here.Best be checking in with my Wiarton Airport Weatherman guy to see if I will be going for a walk or not later on today.
Walking might be touch and go, according to this forecast. I will have to see if there will be sometime late in the day if there should be a rain cloud taken up residence elsewhere before I go walking. Hopefully there will be at least a "skiff" of the white stuff here before Christmas ?
I have actually been getting "butterflies" in my tummy, I am getting so excited for the arrival of Christmas. I am not sure how my morning "blog" routine is going to work out for me, but I am sure such as it will be there will be something or other posted each day. What or when, who knows until the time, as one can never be sure when they have a house full of Rip-tail Snorters ! Lots to do, with hopefully people to see along the way, as I head towards a new day and adventure, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".
"My brother-in-law, Al, was up from Tara, around the Wiarton area, and just thought he would stop in to see Rob & I. What a most pleasant surprise ! Coffee and goodies were served as we enjoyed our visit together. As you can tell, proof I was making an attempt at cleaning is evidenced by the vacuum cleaner cord still laying out across the floor ! LOL."
Once Al had headed out for his home in Tara, lunch was made easy for Rob and I by just heating up Shepherd Pie leftovers from the day before. After lunch was cleaned up from, I thought I had better be gathering up the recipes and such, I had laying across the loveseat beside where I usually sit with my laptop.
"I couldn't believe I had such a pile accumulated in the past couple of weeks. This pile of recipes has some pretty good stuff in it, so I am thinking when I do get around to organizing it, there isn't going to be too much "tossed" from it."
Since we didn't do a Christmas tree this year, as I was thinking it would be too much with limited space in our living room area having little Missy Mercedes, I still found a spot to hang my gift I had received the other day from my friend, Colleen.
"Isn't it "unique"? "Side by Side or Far Apart, Friends are always in your Heart". Each side of the saying, as my and Colleen's name inside a Heart. My Heart was touched."
I did manage to get out this afternoon to go for a walk with my friend, Sharon, also making a find at a local Wiarton Store of a red Christmas tablecloth to have its festive colours in place for our Christmas Dinner. Not getting home until at least late afternoon, I made myself a light lunch of eggs and toast, before I started getting at the spare bedroom. I am please to say that other then all the Christmas presents still on the bed in there, I "got 'r done", so bring on the Company !!! not until Thursday night of course, as there is still more, and always, cleaning to be done !!!"This is my little "niche" in the spare bedroom where I have spent my most every morning since the Month of March 2011, and where I sit this very moment."
That was pretty much my Yesterday, with me feeling it was full and rewarding in itself by way of the people who were in it, to what accomplishments and dents I made in my cleaning "plans".I received the coolest email yesterday ! It totally amazes me how creative people out there are blessed with so much talent and knowledge ..... I can't wait until I get our grandson, Aiden, to try this out when he is here for Christmas.http://www.drawastickman.com/ Very clever, very clever indeed. Never mind our grandson, I am going to get Rob to try it out today, as it was fun when I did it. Thanks to our Port Elgin friend, Bob, for sending me this one, as I so enjoyed doing it !I had also received a weird email yesterday from my Doctor's email address, with nothing of importance coming to mind in the link attached to it. Should anyone have received such an email from my address, it was NOT sent by me, and is more likely SPAM (advertisers looking for a free ride via someone else's email contact list) which has attached itself to my email address. I have done two complete full virus scans on my computer, and happy to say I have not came across any viruses, so I am hoping this stands true. One of the unpleasantness of the Internet, as unfortunately there are many "evil" doers out in the World of computers too.Oh man, there is still the livingroom to be dusted and vacuumed, the bathroom to be gone over, the floors to be mopped, and goodness knows what else I could find that needs doing before the arrival of our "Rip-tail Snorters" this Thursday evening. It will ALL be in need of redoing once they take their leave Saturday .... lol, but will have been all worth it having them here with us.I have reserved today for cleaning and tomorrow for preparing the Lasagna I am making for our Dinner on Friday. Hopefully I will be somewhat organized by the time they get here.Best be checking in with my Wiarton Airport Weatherman guy to see if I will be going for a walk or not later on today.
I have actually been getting "butterflies" in my tummy, I am getting so excited for the arrival of Christmas. I am not sure how my morning "blog" routine is going to work out for me, but I am sure such as it will be there will be something or other posted each day. What or when, who knows until the time, as one can never be sure when they have a house full of Rip-tail Snorters ! Lots to do, with hopefully people to see along the way, as I head towards a new day and adventure, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Purging, Purging, Purging It Does Feel Good !
Superman was completely re-energized when he flew out to space and soaked in some rays and you can do the same right outside your front door (if you live in a constantly dreary place, my apologies). The sun feels amazing: your entire body will be coursing with warmth and life.
I really thought about skipping this Life Secret & Tip today, as the Wiarton Weatherman guy's forecasts have not been too accommodating in the "sun" part of things. *Sigh* why wait until the end, I might just as well check out what he has to say right now about the day ahead.
Yes, just as I had suspected clouds, clouds, clouds and s**w, s**w, s**w ! Okay for this week I would say to anyone in an area which is going to have the same problem as mine does, maybe lots of "fresh" air could be the substituting factor in this case. Apparently this is what I will be doing myself this day, getting "fresh" air, as there "ain't no sunshine when she's gone".My yesterday was one beginning with doing the humdrum bookkeeping for November's month end, then going onto some much needed purging of paper, you know the ones we all can't seem to part with after 20 years or so ?
"Almost two boxes full, with this not counting what went into the woodstove already. What a job going through all of this, page by page, let me tell the World !"
I would guesstimate by the time I had gone through all of the paperwork, Rob had removed the old desk and set up the new computer desk, which we had bought months ago, I would say we were well into the afternoon hours. One can imagine the "dust bunnies" behind the old desk, as I am sure it had only been pulled out one other time this pass Spring !I have yet to do a bit more organizing of my new "blog" spot headquarters, so I won't be taking a picture until that has been completed first.Rob also went found the boxes of Christmas decorations required to do up the "side buffet" in preparations for our Family Christmas. We have decided not to do the tree this year, as I really don't want to be upset with Mercedes having too much fun running in, around and behind one. We are thinking she will have a better understanding of house manners by the time Christmas rolls around next year.
"I am really hoping by tomorrow I will have this all up and running putting us further towards "Christmas Spirit" mode."
In the meantime, I have been getting more and more Christmas Spirit, by watching (most times tearfully) Christmas movies on TV, attending Church Christmas Bazaars and Christmas Craft Shows, and just yesterday listening and watching a Video forwarded to me via email by my Auntie.This same video I am sure I had listened and watched it at least four times yesterday. I thought about forwarding it by email to some friends and family members, but why do that when it is just as easy for me to share it here with "everyone" other then a just a few.First though the story behind the video:
Isn't this one of the most heart warming songs and videos one has every heard and watched. I absolutely love it, thinking I will be sharing it by email with others as well, so they can forward it to their own family and friends.
I had also received another "special" email yesterday from our friend Russ, with an attachment along with it.
"I couldn't have been more surprised to see Russ had portrayed a drawing of myself & our boy, Bandit, from a picture that was taken here this past Summer."
Should anyone like such any picture drawn for themselves, please do not hesitate to contact me at justnorthofwiarton@live.ca , as I am sure Russ would be more then happy to "quote" a cost for anyone.
After a supper of pork chops done in the Slow Cooker with Cream of Mushroom soup poured over them, once the first initial grease from them had been poured off, our own garden potatoes and cream corn, it had been well after the hour of six o'clock. By the time I had made phone calls to my niece, sister, Auntie, and the supper dishes were done it didn't take long for the rest of the evening to fly by before it was bedtime .....
This was pretty much my yesterday, partial work, purging and some parts spent in enjoyment, more then other parts ..... lol. All in a day's adventure.
Despite there being no sunshine forecasted in the day ahead, I am choosing to put my own "sunshine" in it as I head towards a brand new adventure, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".
I really thought about skipping this Life Secret & Tip today, as the Wiarton Weatherman guy's forecasts have not been too accommodating in the "sun" part of things. *Sigh* why wait until the end, I might just as well check out what he has to say right now about the day ahead.
"Almost two boxes full, with this not counting what went into the woodstove already. What a job going through all of this, page by page, let me tell the World !"
I would guesstimate by the time I had gone through all of the paperwork, Rob had removed the old desk and set up the new computer desk, which we had bought months ago, I would say we were well into the afternoon hours. One can imagine the "dust bunnies" behind the old desk, as I am sure it had only been pulled out one other time this pass Spring !I have yet to do a bit more organizing of my new "blog" spot headquarters, so I won't be taking a picture until that has been completed first.Rob also went found the boxes of Christmas decorations required to do up the "side buffet" in preparations for our Family Christmas. We have decided not to do the tree this year, as I really don't want to be upset with Mercedes having too much fun running in, around and behind one. We are thinking she will have a better understanding of house manners by the time Christmas rolls around next year.
"I am really hoping by tomorrow I will have this all up and running putting us further towards "Christmas Spirit" mode."
In the meantime, I have been getting more and more Christmas Spirit, by watching (most times tearfully) Christmas movies on TV, attending Church Christmas Bazaars and Christmas Craft Shows, and just yesterday listening and watching a Video forwarded to me via email by my Auntie.This same video I am sure I had listened and watched it at least four times yesterday. I thought about forwarding it by email to some friends and family members, but why do that when it is just as easy for me to share it here with "everyone" other then a just a few.First though the story behind the video:
While at the mall a couple of years ago, my then four year old nephew, Spencer, saw kids lined up to see Santa Claus. Having been taught as a toddler that Christmas is the holiday that Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus, he asked his mom: "Where's the line to see Jesus"?
My sister mentioned this to my dad, who immediately became inspired and jotted words down to a song in just a few minutes. After putting music to the words, and doing a quick recording at home, he received a great response from friends. He sent the song off to Nashville without much response, except for a Christian song writer who suggested adding a bridge at the end of the first chorus.
My dad then asked if I wanted to record the song to see what we could do with it. I listened to the song, made a few changes to the words to make it flow better, and we headed to Shock City Studios. It was at the studio where Chris, owner and producer, rewrote the 2nd verse and part of the chorus... With goose bumps and emotions high, we were all hopeful and felt like we had something special. The demo was recorded in just under 2 hours and sent off again to Nashville ... Still no response.
Then 2 weeks before Christmas last year, my cousins Greg and Robbie decided to do a video to see what we could accomplish on YouTube. The first day we had 3000 hits and it soared from there. We received e-mails, phone calls, Facebook messages from people all over asking for the music, CD's, iTunes, anything... We had nothing. After a couple of meetings with Chris following the amazing response, we got serious. We headed back into the studio this past spring... This time with guitars, drums, bass, pianos, choirs... The real deal.... And here we are today.
Getting iTunes set up, a website put together, and loving that thousands upon thousands of Christians have come together... Remembering the true meaning of Christmas.
"Merry Christmas"
Isn't this one of the most heart warming songs and videos one has every heard and watched. I absolutely love it, thinking I will be sharing it by email with others as well, so they can forward it to their own family and friends.
I had also received another "special" email yesterday from our friend Russ, with an attachment along with it.
"I couldn't have been more surprised to see Russ had portrayed a drawing of myself & our boy, Bandit, from a picture that was taken here this past Summer."
Should anyone like such any picture drawn for themselves, please do not hesitate to contact me at justnorthofwiarton@live.ca , as I am sure Russ would be more then happy to "quote" a cost for anyone.
After a supper of pork chops done in the Slow Cooker with Cream of Mushroom soup poured over them, once the first initial grease from them had been poured off, our own garden potatoes and cream corn, it had been well after the hour of six o'clock. By the time I had made phone calls to my niece, sister, Auntie, and the supper dishes were done it didn't take long for the rest of the evening to fly by before it was bedtime .....
This was pretty much my yesterday, partial work, purging and some parts spent in enjoyment, more then other parts ..... lol. All in a day's adventure.
Despite there being no sunshine forecasted in the day ahead, I am choosing to put my own "sunshine" in it as I head towards a brand new adventure, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".
Saturday, 3 December 2011
Lots Of "Local" Flavor & "Talent" In & Around Bruce County !
Perfect Life Secret & Tip this one is. Since I am usually so sleep deprived I find myself laughing at myself quite frequently, I am sure for fear of crying .... LOL. "Life" really should always have a little pleasure mixed in with business at ALL times, as I am sure ALL Business ALL the time, can't be ALL that healthy for us, now could it be ?"My yesterday began with the "sun" peeking from the clouds out of the Eastern skies."
I am so happy I did not have to seriously stay home yesterday to chase "dust bunnies" around the house all day long. A friend of mine, Anita Dejong, who owns and operates "Sweet Things" From Dejong Acres, alongside her husband, Brian, and two daughters, Rayleen and Nicole, sent me an email yesterday morning with the attachment to it as follows:
Was I ever excited a Wiarton Christmas Farmer's Market was going on every Friday at the Old Oxeden General Store located just 5 minutes outside of Wiarton. The "poster" alone was enticing enough to draw me there.As soon as I returned home from my weekly "jab" in the arm at Dr. Loney's office in Lion's Head, I made sure I got the "pack" all looked after, few things tidied up around the house, and as soon as my "Crabby Cabbie" got up with at least "one" coffee into him, we headed out ....." ..... just 5 minutes out of Wiarton on Frank Street was all it took before we arrived at our destination."
"The Old Oxeden General Store is far from difficult to find, as it is right on the main corner and there was lots of "bright" signage."
I was so excited, I barely could wait for Rob to get parked so I could see what was behind the door of the Old General Store. Patience is a "virtue", so I did manage to contain my excitement, and most certainly was not one bit disappointed when I did walk through the door to ....
"Baby quilts and children's hand knitted items made by Betty. What I found to be most interesting was to learn about the "tie-dye" items also displayed in this photo, that unbeknownst to me, another local "talent" has been operating right in Bruce Peninsula's own backyard. Take a tour of "Kind Hands" by visiting their website as follows: http://www.kindhands.com/about-us/ I was totally in "awe" of what has been going on the past ten years, just North of the Checkerboard."
Since I had taken homemade Chili out of the freezer for Rob and my Dinner ....".... how appropriate was it Rob had purchased a loaf of "healthy" bread made by the "Rising Sun Bakery"? Oh yes, it was very very good ! "
Later this same afternoon, my "Crabby Cabbie" did take leave for work, leaving me to tackle a job that needed tackling sooner then later.
"I am pretty certain our bedroom closet has more room in it now I have everything under wrap."
Since I am so excited about all of this "local" talent in and around Bruce County, now would be a perfect time to introduce a young lady who does amazing "artwork" of one of my most favorite views.
More can be learned about this up and coming young artist and her paintings by "clicking" on Sarah's web link as follows:
I am sure there will be no disappointment with seeing more of Sarah's talent displayed across a canvas, as she truly does possess a gift to be able to create such amazing paintings.
*Sigh* What a wonderful day I spent by "wholly enjoying my existence", ending last night by having an enjoyable vigorous walk downtown Wiarton with my girl, Lexus.
Lots to do today, as a little bird put a "bug" in my ear there is a Christmas Craft show being held today at the Wiarton Propeller Club, that I just might have to check out before I tackle any Christmas Baking. As per usual, I must first check in with my Wiarton Airport Weatherman guy.
Looks like it will be a good day to spend indoors at a Craft Show, and to stay home to get some Christmas Baking started. I am hoping it is not raining later at 7 pm when the Wiarton Christmas Parade is happening.
I am weary before I go further, but with the thought of beginning a new adventure in my day ahead has me, once again, off and running, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".
Friday, 2 December 2011
Excellent Customer Service Is Still Alive & Well !!!
Phhh, something I often think about doing, but seldom ever do is drink lots of water. I am really not too fond of water, but I must admit I have been giving it my "best" shot by trying to drink more then I used to. I don't think I have ever drank 10 glasses in a day ever, with the exception of "having to" in preparation for an ultrasound on my bladder? Another point well taken which I should take example from by trying to drink more water on a daily basis.Water can begin in my Present day ahead, but for the moment I will go back into my yesterday ......Yesterday I spent a wonderful morning with the Wiarton VON SMART exercise group. The ladies there, who come week after week, are all wonderful and a delight to mentor. I can't recall ever hearing any grumbles or complaints the past few weeks I have been there; always seeing lots of fun and smiles going on, as they go through the 1 hour program. We had a little Christmas celebration after class with a few goodies, Punch and coffee and a little bit of ladyship going on, opposed to fellowship ..... as there had been no fellows present. The group has now dispersed, not to return until the Winter Session begins on the 19th of January, 2012. The VON SMART (Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together) program is available to both men and woman ages 55+ at a very minimal cost. Lots of time for anyone to get themselves registered for the Winter and Spring sessions, by contacting a VON Canada office in your area through their website: http://www.von.ca/en/home/default.aspxNot arriving back home until after the lunch time, and Rob having already having left for work this day to go in early, my three darling "Aussies" were all happy to see me. Once they had been given runs and kisses, I got right to cleaning up the dishes and the kitchen, then went on to getting some "dust bunnies" rounded up from our bedroom. A never ending circle, as around and around we go .....My "Crabby Cabbie" did end up working the morning, coming back home for some lunch and bit of a rest for a couple hours, before he went back to work on his regular shift. I was glad there was a piece of Leek & Ham Shepherd's Pie leftover for him to have for his lunch, it would have otherwise made for some very meager pickings.It just comes to mind now, the past couple of days I have been dealing with the Bell Store in Owen Sound, a Blackberry Call Centre in California, and the RIM (Research In Motion) trying to get a Blackberry Curve phone added to my Bell Mobility plan. What an adventure this has been, let me tell the World ! It all began when my son, Paul, had given me this phone he had bought privately to replace my very old Samsung cell phone.I took it myself to the Bell Store where the staff had it all programmed and ready to go, however then were unable to connect it to the Bell Network. They ended up telling me I would have to call Blackberry, as there seemed to be a problem with the phone itself.Well I am sure the day before yesterday I had been on the phone with a Carlos at the Blackberry Call Centre, in California, for at least over an hour. After giving him the phone's PIN, he was eventually able to determine the phone had originally been sold as a pre-paid Cricket (Cricket is another network provider, as Bell is) through a Best Buy Store. Great detective work I might add ! Carlos told me the only thing I could do is contact Cricket to purchase one of their plans or go online to somehow try to buy an "unlock" code for the phone, so I could hook into a Bell network. Oh man !!! I wasn't having any of that !My next plan of action was to place a call to RIM themselves, who are located in Waterloo, Ontario, not far from where we used to live. I just received a phone call back from them yesterday.The short and the long of the story, I stated to Nicole of RIM, I was of the opinion that any Cellular telephone that is purchased at a cost of hundreds of dollars, should not be "bound" to just one provider's plan, ie Cricket. If I buy a telephone for $369.00 +, and am not happy with that particular cellular phone provider after any length of time, I want to be able to have the choice of taking my phone to whatever cellular phone provider I so then choose. Beware people, it obviously doesn't always work out to be that way, so be careful when purchasing a Cellular phone from a "particular" plan provider, as you just might be "stuck" with them, until death of the phone, or death do you part, whichever comes first.The Samsung I have had now for years,I have never being happy with it from day one, but I am sure I could have changed cellular phone providers at any given time. Patience and perseverance I am obviously blessed with in situations as these, as Nicole said she would get back to me on this matter by next Tuesday.I must say from George at the Owen Sound Bell store, to Carlos at the Blackberry Call Centre, and lastly Nicole at RIM, I can not say how pleased I was with the understanding, knowledge and resources of these said persons. It is wonderful to finally see there is still some "exceptional" Customer Service out there, and to believe I had three great Customer Service Representatives in a row? Almost unheard of in this day and age, is it not?I will not NOT give up hope we will be returned to days of old, when Customer Service really was a "Virtue".Once that was all out of the way for the day, I thought I best be getting a few things in place in the "Spirit of Christmas". "Christmas Greetings by way of cards, signed, sealed, stamped and delivered out to the Mailbox."
"The front foyer ready to greet any Holiday visitors. Um, I am sure it was only a couple of weeks ago I put away the Spring arrangement, putting the Fall arrangement in its place?"
This was pretty much my Yesterday ......
I am feeling pretty sleepy at the present, as another sleep deprived night has made claim to my being, but onward I go as I am wanting to see what my Wiarton Airport Weather guy has in store for my day ahead.
There is certainly no yellow happening in this day's forecast unless the weather guy is wrong, as he has known to be in days gone by There is always that "hope" of a little sunshine making an appearance.
No plans for tonight being the start to a beginning of a weekend? Drop in here, as I am sure there is a Bruce County event that might catch your eye:
http://www.explorethebruce.com/events-in-bruce-county.php
Need a little heart melting and a smile to get the day started? I did, so I just popped into this site to get my "fix" ..... drop on in to get your own "fix', as it is only a "click" away .....
http://thedesigninspiration.com/articles/50-adorable-animals-to-melt-your-heart/
Other then a trip North of the Checkerboard to my Doctor's for my weekly shot in the arm, I am pretty sure I will be having a chase the "dust bunnies" around adventure in my day ahead, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".
Monday, 21 November 2011
Goodbye Bruce County, Hello Family Christmas Party !
Rob and I had a fantastic "adventure" together yesterday. It was spent by travelling South out of Bruce County to have a Christmas get-together with the Roth side of the family. We had not seen some family members, who were there, since over two years ago.
We finally made it to our destination at Rob's niece & her husband's home in Drayton. What a wonderful gesture on their part to have such a large group of family members there all at once. I am hoping I thanked both Heather and Tim a couple of times for their kindness of opening their home to all of us.
For some reason, more then likely to the delight of most of Family members, my camera was not taking such good pictures yesterday. I am sure it was the "operator", as she was feeling a little weary this day.
How handy was that clock hanging there in Heather & Tim's Great Room, as now I know what time it was before Rob and I headed out for home ourselves. Must have been just before 3:00 p.m..
Bandit and Lexus both came from a Kennel, which is located on our way back home, so we thought we would drop in for a wee visit to see the new pups I knew were now there.
Should anyone be interested in having an Australian Shepherd as a lifelong companion, please feel free to contact John & Gina Fuller at their website: http://www.fullhousestables.ca/ , to make arrangements for the purchase of one of these "outstanding" pups. As everyone should know, I can testify to the fact all the love, loyalties and enjoyment there is to be gained from the ownership of such a wonderful Breed of Dog as the Australian Shepherd.
My own Bandit & Lexus will not be having their next litter until Spring 2012, so please keep this in mind should you be looking to purchase an "Aussie" at that time. In the meantime, if you were thinking of an "Aussie" now, please contact John and Gina, at their website link above, as they will never lead one astray regarding any one of their dogs, standing behind each and every puppy they have raised.
I have already registered my phone numbers, including my land base number. Thanks for the tip, Nancy, as this is something everyone should have the option of knowing about.
We encountered just a wee little bit of drizzle on our drive home yesterday. I heard a rumour the weather is suppose to be beautiful this week, so I will be taking that up with the Wiarton Airport Weatherman guy.
"We first had to head South by going down Wiarton's North hill to begin our journey to our appointed destination."
"Rob wasn't going anywhere until he got our dirty van washed first. As I was waiting for him to do so, I amused myself by watching this cat's goings on. Trust me there is a "cat" in this picture."
We finally made it to our destination at Rob's niece & her husband's home in Drayton. What a wonderful gesture on their part to have such a large group of family members there all at once. I am hoping I thanked both Heather and Tim a couple of times for their kindness of opening their home to all of us.
For some reason, more then likely to the delight of most of Family members, my camera was not taking such good pictures yesterday. I am sure it was the "operator", as she was feeling a little weary this day.
"Though I did mange to get a "good" picture of our boy, Paul, our girl, Sarah, and the guy they should be looking up to as their Father, out having themselves a little smoking session. I suppose this was one way for the three of them to have some "quality" time together. LOL I am sure glad I kicked that "habit" as it was a bit chilly out there. "
"The "pot luck" main course was totally awesome, but never seems to be quite as popular as all the goodies served afterwards, now is it?"
"Our kids left early, as the younger grandsons had been tired out. This was pretty much all the rest of us after we had enjoyed such a wonderful meal together. Lots of contentment going on here, or shall I say, lots of "contented full tummies"? "
How handy was that clock hanging there in Heather & Tim's Great Room, as now I know what time it was before Rob and I headed out for home ourselves. Must have been just before 3:00 p.m..
Bandit and Lexus both came from a Kennel, which is located on our way back home, so we thought we would drop in for a wee visit to see the new pups I knew were now there.
"This is "Mia". Mia is our very own Lexus' Mother."
"Here are all the new babies ! They are so sweet. The one little guy in the center is quite the Roley Poley out of the whole bunch."
"Seeing these Puppies most certainly brought back memories of the Bandit & Lexus' "Magnificent Seven" bunch last Spring."
"Four of the litter have already been sold. One will actually be flown all the way out to Newfoundland; what a little traveller she or he will be? These pups shown here are two of the three still available for sale. Was this a "Please lady, take us home, we promise we will be good & love you." look or what?"
Should anyone be interested in having an Australian Shepherd as a lifelong companion, please feel free to contact John & Gina Fuller at their website: http://www.fullhousestables.ca/ , to make arrangements for the purchase of one of these "outstanding" pups. As everyone should know, I can testify to the fact all the love, loyalties and enjoyment there is to be gained from the ownership of such a wonderful Breed of Dog as the Australian Shepherd.
My own Bandit & Lexus will not be having their next litter until Spring 2012, so please keep this in mind should you be looking to purchase an "Aussie" at that time. In the meantime, if you were thinking of an "Aussie" now, please contact John and Gina, at their website link above, as they will never lead one astray regarding any one of their dogs, standing behind each and every puppy they have raised.
That was pretty much our "Out of Bruce County" adventure for the day. By the time we got home just after 5 p.m., both Rob and I were wearier. Would that be something to do with us getting older, or maybe just because we ate too much good food? That's it, it was the good food.
Speaking of food, my favorite subject, I found a method to the Sweet & Salty Christmas treats, our niece, Lauren, had brought along to the party with her. Here it is:
Recipe Source: familyfun.go.com
Salty pretzels combine with sweet chocolate for these fun treats that make a yummy gift few can resist. (In fact, you may want to make some extras for yourself!)
Ingredients
- Bite-size, waffle-shaped pretzels
- Hershey's Kiss or Hershey's Hug
- M&M's candy
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 170F. Set a number of bite-size, waffle-shaped pretzels (one for each treat) in a single layer on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, then top each pretzel with an unwrapped Hershey's Kiss or Hershey's Hug.
- Bake for 4 to 6 minutes (the white chocolate will melt more quickly), until the chocolates feel soft when touched with a wooden spoon. Remove the cookie sheet from the oven and quickly press an M&M's candy into the center of each Kiss.
- Allow the treats to cool for a few minutes, then place them in the refrigerator to set, about 10 minutes. Place handfuls of the candies in clear plastic bags and tie on colorful ribbons
These were so good I am sure I had at least five of them, keeping in mind they were small pretzels ..... lol. Easy Peasy to make as One-Two-Three, and something that would add some nice variation to a Christmas Tray of Goodies.
My other favorite there was a Shortbread Square, made by Heather, our Hostess. I love Shortbread, and these are going to be one of the first I make and add to my Christmas Baking List this year, as Heather had messaged the recipe when I had gotten back home, at my request of course .... lol. Here it is:
Recipe Courtesy of Rob's Niece, Heather Martin
Made in a 10x15" pan
Bottom Layer
1 Cup plus 4 table spoons of butter
1/2 cup of Sugar
2 1/2 cup flour
crumble all ingredients well. Pack into ungreased pan and Bake at 350 for 20 min.
Second Layer
1 cup butter
1 Cup brown Sugar
4 table spoons of Corn Syrup
1 Can Sweeten condensed milk
Boil alll ingredients together. for 5 min stiring constantly. Pour over bottom layer. Cool.
Third Layer
24 Oz. semi sweet chocolate chips. Melt over low Heat and poor over second layer.
Chill. Cut into 36 squares.
These recipes and more can be found on Facebook, at "Cindy's Recipe Exchange". Anytime you are enjoying a cup of coffee or tea, feel free to look us up and drop on in to see what else we have been up to there. Should you try either, please let me know, as I love to hear other people's take on a recipe.
Some very good information I received yesterday from my one sister-in-law via email, is regarding "unwanted Telepmarkerter Phone Calls". This was the email I recieved:
I have already registered my phone numbers, including my land base number. Thanks for the tip, Nancy, as this is something everyone should have the option of knowing about.
We encountered just a wee little bit of drizzle on our drive home yesterday. I heard a rumour the weather is suppose to be beautiful this week, so I will be taking that up with the Wiarton Airport Weatherman guy.
I am seeing a bit of YELLOW peeking out from behind those clouds. If there even is some peeking out at me sun, I am taking it !
Should there be any spelling or grammar errors, as I know there can quite often be at any given time, they will have to be excused, as they aren't bothering me one bit this morning. This does happen when one is feeling a little on the weary side, with being my "norm" on most days.
I do need to get the cobwebs cleared from my head at some point here, as I think there is going to be a "Get some Housework Done", along with a "Bookkeeping" adventure in my day ahead, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".
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