A Little Behind

I have been a little behind on blog posts lately, okay you got me, I have been a lot behind !  Good reasons though as I have had a Family Reunion, my daughter-in-law, grandchildren, and a best friend all visit us last week, and I feel I have been just darn busy.

I had a one month follow-up appointment with my Doctor yesterday.  I have lost 20 pounds since February (oh it is soooooo slow coming off).  He is very happy with the progress I am making, and have made, telling me I am a *star* patient (now that makes one feel pretty good, even at the best of times).

I feel after years of being on a roller coaster ride, I have been given my life back, and most days it feels really damn good.  I still experience small bouts of anxiety, however have not had a "full blown" anxiety attack since I have been on the new medication of mood stabilizer, Lamotrigine.  I could resent the fact I was not diagnosed until this late in life, but why do that when we can only move forward, and this I believe I am now doing in a better frame of mind.  I still have "bad" days, but everyone does so I would never expect to be an exception to the rule, even though I am sure I would kinda like not have any "bad" days ... *smile*.

I barely got any photos at this year's Masterson Reunion, however I had no problem getting my Uncle Reg to pose for me.

Here you go Uncle Reg, your honorary mention ! xo

From left to right, Briar, Chloe, Liz, Aiden & Connor.  They had a great time staying with us and got to spend two glorious weather days at Sauble Beach.  The Tuesday evening Poppa & I took them all to see Ice Age at the Drive-in movie in Owen Sound.  Precious memories in the making it was.

For the past month I have been walking early in the mornings, trying to be out of the house before six a.m., as it is cooler and I love trying to "catch" the sunrises.  My girlfriend, Shannon, went one morning with me, since I was not to take her photo, I have shared a photo of the view I am blessed with each morning I walk.

That was pretty much my last week in a nutshell, or should I say the "highlights" of it, as there was lots more then just this going on I am sure ... you know, the usual housework, meetings, Aussies, etc...

Speaking of Aussies, here are a couple of "fun" photos of two our our Aussies:

Bandit is pictured here with our rescue kitty, Paisley, who we acquired at the end of June.  His look is one of "really, you are going to leave me alone with "it" again!".  Never a dull moment with a kitten in the household.  Rob and I have never had a kitten before, as in the past we have adopted older cats, our one living until she was 15 years old.

This is a very rare photo of Portia in Paisley's bed, and Bandit is his, as Paisley usually monopolizes the "big" bed all to herself.

The other day I captured a great video of Paisley and Portia playing together, which can be viewed on The Checkerboard Aussies' Facebook page, by *clicking* HERE, and scrolling a bit down in the newsfeed.  Like I said, never a dull moment usually at our house.

Tomorrow afternoon I head into the Owen Sound Hospital for the "dreaded" mammogram.  Unfortunately it is a very necessary thing to have done, and because of my Mother, her sister, and both my sisters having had cancer, it is really important for me to go to my yearly appointments.  After the experience with my Mom having one at 80 years old to find she had aggressive breast cancer.  Yes you are never too old to have a mammogram !

After my appointment I am heading down to New Hamburg to my son & daughter-in-laws.  We have a friend getting married Saturday.  Rob has to stay behind to "hold down the fort" so to speak, and look after the Aussies and kitteh.  I have offered to take photos at the wedding, should they not have anyone else.  This offer was readily accepted so I hope I can manage to take a few nice photos for them.

Well I think I have managed to catch up with myself, so this is all she wrote this day, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Really Are They Serious ?????

After I had finished up my blog post last night I headed off to bed and was gone, gone, gone ... which was not a bad thing for me considering I was still "pooped" today.

Last night was truly lots of fun and worth the late night for me.  Not getting home until 9 pm is late for me these days.  It was so cool to have a projector screen and a monitor hooked into the laptop to access Facebook, which I was sharing the "basics" on.  Hopefully everyone went home a little bit more knowledgeable then when they arrived.

This morning I had someone call me who wanted to come meet our Aussies, Bandit, Lexus, Mercedes and Buddy, as they are interested in one of Bandit and Lexus' pups which are due mid-April.  When the couple showed they were introduced to each and every one of our Checkerboard Aussies, who they were very impressed with.  I was very proud each one of our four were at their very best behaviour, with barely a one jumping up on our visitors.  It was decided before the couple left that they "signed on" for one of the new pups when the litter arrives.  It is nice when your dogs speak for themselves I find.

Yesterday we had another nasty day with wind and snow.

Our lane way exposed to the west was plugged in pretty dang good with barely a cow path.  Rob spent some time getting it cleared out today, as it was not only plugged it had been very heavy.  Our Tractor has been put through its paces this past Winter ... and really considering today is the first full day of Spring, what's up with that???

Tomorrow Environment Canada has a Snowfall Warning in effect !!!  Really, are they serious ????  Check it out for yourself by *clicking* HERE.  *shaking head*

I so enjoyed the warmth and the full day of Sunshine this day.  It was 5 degrees above freezing, and it actually felt balmy in comparison to what we have been having in prior days.

I had Bandit & Mercedes out for a big romp.  They are so amusing.  Bandit had the stick, finally tuckered out, Mercedes had him where she wanted and off she went, stick in mouth.

One of our Crabby Cabbie vehicles had the battery go in it today.  Rob and I had to go meet our driver to do a vehicle exchange with him.  I enjoyed spending a bit of time together.  When we returned home to retrieve our mail there had been a very pleasant surprise in the mailbox for me.

There I had found a Media "pass" to the Kemble Maple Syrup & Arts Show on the 5th of April.  What a most pleasant surprise.  Rob and I had attended 2 years ago, having an amazing time together that day ... please enjoy it too, by *clicking* HERE.  That post had been a very laborious and extensive post but such an enjoyable memory for both Rob & I.

Should you have a Facebook Account, please check out the Kemble Maple Syrup Event by going HERE, or if you do not you may learn more details by going HERE.  A fun day for anyone to get out and enjoy !!!

I am planning on going, however not too happy as I do not think my Rob will be able to go along with me.  This makes me *sad*.  What does make me happy is I will get to see my friends Anita Dejong of Dejong Acres Farm, and Abby Miners of Miners' Maple Products, whose farms are both included in the Tour.

I had nicely sat down to think about having a nice hot cuppa tea when I glanced up at the clock to realize I had a 3:30 appt with the Chiropractor !!!  YIKES the clock was almost at 3 pm.  I quick gave my neighbour friend, Pari a call to see if she wanted to go along for the ride, picked her up and was off like a shot down the highway towards Sauble Beach.  I was only minutes late.  I really needed the adjustment as I my neck, shoulder and back had been pretty tight from bending this way and that last night.

Returning back home it was time to make our Dinner of broiled T-bone steaks, baked potatoes and Caesar Salad..  I am still "pooped", Rob is "pooped" and we still have to take out our gang out for their last romp of the evening.

I am pretty certain it is going to be an early night here for the two of us here, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Wild And Windy

 This morning we awoke to a wild and windy day.  It was one of those blustery Winnie-the-Pooh days.

"It was a good day to hit the dreaded "Crabby Cabbie" book work.  Yech !  with January and February behind me I still had March to look forward to, and before I know it, it will be the end of April and that will be hanging over my head."

"At least I had a distraction with looking outside the dining room window from time to time to see this chipper Robin huddling on a branch.  In front of me I had the Telus Calendar with a pair of Owls that put a smile on my face.  I do love getting the Telus Calendar every year."

"Of course there were lots of breaks in-between since my four awesome Aussies needed out, about and in at least a few times while I was doing the dreaded books.  Much cooler today then the High of almost 20*C we had yesterday.  The rain was pretty much gone by lunch time with lots of puddles and small ponds on the property.  Oh there are two partners in crime, speaking of Aussies ... Lexus and Bandit giving me the "eye"."

"I stayed out longer then I should have with Mercedes, but then again I figure I needed a longer break and it won't be much longer that she will be tied down herself with her first litter.  This is the very first time I had really gotten that much of a real noticeable *smile* from this girl ... she really is quite the little doll.  A Roly poly doll at the moment.  We even had a game of throw the stick, but she didn't last as long as she normally would have.  The time is close."

"I am most times always amused with our Buddy's energy and antics.  He is quite the "Ham" I must say.  We had been at the West side of the house, with both of us almost blown away a couple times today."

I managed to get those "dreaded" books done today, but it took me some time to get through the mess.  I claimed back our dining room table if nothing else got done today.  Of course I had to get it cleared as where else would I have my Dinner.

"With some tortilla wraps to be used up, I scrambled some egg, added marble cheese, a bit of red onion and romaine lettuce to make myself a very filling Dinner.  Served with it was a bowl of torn romaine lettuce leaves and red onion, topped with Raspberry Vinaigrette.  A very satisfying Dinner it was."

I had a wonderful surprise last night !  My "Crabby Cabbie" came home, so I did not have to have the Dinner I had planned alone.  Mind you it was a late Dinner going on to 8 pm.  Still it was not enjoyed alone, and that was worth it in itself, especially when it was the very first time I had made this meal ....

"Rosemary-Crusted Pork Tenderloin.  It was wonderful !"

Recipe please?  PRINTABLE RECIPE *CLICK* HERE.

Pssst ... I got to see not only some cuteness this morning, also some smartness.  I would love to share this with everyone, so just *click* HERE.

I know I am a pain, but until the 6th of May I hope I am a lovable "pain".  Because of YOUR support and daily votes we are now at 208 Votes.  

Hardly enough when I look at some people's Small Businesses with Votes already in the high hundreds, however I still need to try my best.   Once again, please Vote daily for MY "Crabby Cabbie", until the 6th of May, here is the link:

https://www.loveourlocalbusiness.com/base/lolb2desktop?region_id=ca-en&content_id=20580

As always, and forever, Thank YOU !!!  from me and my ....

Serving Saugeen Shores & Area.  

Southampton:  519-373-7700 or Port Elgin:  519-379-7700

Guess what? it is still windy and blustery out there.  Guess what? they are calling for snow tomorrow.  Guess what? I don't care as I still have my wood stove going and am quite nice and cozy with no book work on my dining room table for the time being, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".

Yesterday's Fun & Today's Dones

Why on Earth would I be so upset that I had left my Memory Card in my laptop, having not put it back into my Camera yesterday?  Because I had went on a Road Trip with my Auntie Gladys to London !! that had been planned for the past few weeks.

Auntie was going to London for an appointment, so I had asked her if she would mind if I would go along with her so I could visit a friend I have had for sometime, however had not met in person.  I was so excited to be meeting someone who I feel I have gotten to know so well through her writing, our emails and a couple of phone calls.

There was naught a bit of disappointment on neither our parts.  I spent a delightful couple hours with my dear, now in person, friend .....

"Carla of My 1/2 Dozen Daily."

~Photo Credit:  Carla's lovely oldest daughter, Morgan~

What could I possibly take along to Carla that she would enjoy?   I could not take any food items as she has food allergies with me not even wanting to begin taking a chance on taking along something she could not enjoy.  I did however take a tin of of Homemade Cookies for the girls, while having given Carla something I know she craves and is addicted to ....

"Carla's "goodies" were given in the form of Fat Quarter materials in some cute prints.  Not necessary, however much to my delight, Carla had gifted me these three books.  I can not wait to get into Real Life Real Miracles.  Carla remembers me speaking to her about the Car Accident I had 2 years ago, thinking it would be a most appropriate book for me to have.  Thanks Carla, you are indeed an Angel on this Earth for your thoughtfulness."

Now would anyone who follows both mine and Carla's blogs like to hear how Carla is in "Real Life", up close and personal?  I found Carla to be sweet, kind, considerate, down to Earth and a very real "up front" person.  Black and White with no grey areas in-between, which is my kind of person!  Carla is also obviously an excellent Mother, as we all know is not always that easy in today's times, as was evidenced by meeting their four children.

Oh Carla's husband? he works very hard to look after his family on a night shift, so of course he was enjoying, hopefully we were quiet enough, himself some sleep.  Maybe I will get to meet up with him another time.

Special thanks to Carla's oldest daughter for taking the two photos for us.  Thanks again, Morgan !!! xx

Special thanks to my Auntie Gladys for taking me along on the trip with her.  I had a wonderful time on the drive there and back, as it was nice to spend some quality time with her.  I do love my Auntie Gladys.  We even enjoyed an amazing lunch together at a little restaurant before we got to the City.  Amazing homemade food and prices that were beyond reasonable !  I am certain this little place will be a stop Auntie will take Uncle to the next time they are through there.

Back to reality here today "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard" .....

More "Crabby Cabbie" business, which seems never ending some days, bed made, dishes done, bathroom cleaned, kitchen floors washed, and Aussies attended to throughout the day.  Here I sit wondering why there is still so much else to do with this vicious web of housework and its tasks it weaves for us.

Rob had picked up some "treats" for our gang Yesterday much to everyone's delight as you can tell ...

"Nylabone meets Buddy, with Me getting a beautiful big "grin" in return.  This made me really *smile* to know how happy our Buddy Boy, especially him showing it like so."

Does anyone remember when the first Day of Spring is??? as I think Old Man Winter is having it out with Mother Nature running her course.

"There were humongous flakes of snow blowing through this morning."

By late afternoon it had all changed ...

"With the Wild Turkeys doing the "Boardwalk" along our drainage ditches in behind our house. Notice the ducks having a little swim in the super big puddle in our first field?"

I took an Easy Peasy route with our Dinner this evening.

"Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts met up with my Homemade Black Bean & Corn Salsa in the Slow Cooker to be later served over a bed of Basmati Rice.  Dessert? that would be Homemade Carrot Cake that my Auntie made for one "Crabby Cabbie" who just happens to be one very spoiled man.  Jeez one call to the Auntie and a week or so later, "voila" he gets whatever he asks for ... what brat I am married to !"

Thanks to Forever Owner, Mike, of our "Checkerboard Aussies" Fabulous Four Bindi, I had my cuteness *fix* today from Windsor.  Take a peek yourself by *clicking* HERE.

Spread the news !!!!

"Pssst ... Have I told you yet I am going to be a daddy and only in about in 2 weeks time???"

That was my "yesterday's fun and today's dones", pretty much all in a "nut shell", "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".

YIKES ! There Are MORE !!!

There were two more upcoming Community April Events I had overlooked, or more like slipped my mind (something that I have noticed happens to me more frequently then naught these days).  I had thought I had better get them posted before they "slip my mind" again.  Get your "April Calendars out to Mark them again" .....

April 18th:

The Wiarton Friends of the Library are hosting a spring luncheon - a fund-raising event to support the programs at the library. Master of Ceremonies is Dave Nixon. Guest speaker is Daryl Wood, a certified life coach who lives near Tobermory. Only 120 tickets at $20 each are on sale. They are available at the Wiarton library & from Library Friends.

Thanks to Susan, who reads my blog, for bringing the Wiarton Library event to my attention.  We love our community libraries.  When our Grandsons, Aiden and Connor come visiting as they love when I take them to the Wiarton Library, especially when Mary Jane is there to greet them with her wonderful smile and undivided attention to their needs.

The next Event is for friends of myself and Rob.  Kathy, Blaine and family are friends to many in their community and surrounding areas.  Last month they lost their home to Fire.  This is an experience Rob and I have personally known ourselves when our own home in Waterloo set on fire in 1997.  Thank goodness for family members, friends and our insurance company, Tradition Mutual, who we are still with, to see us through those rough times of loosing so much, along with the stress of re-building a home and replacing all of our belongings.

I was told through a mutual friend the Fundraiser that had been sponsored by Walmart two weeks ago had raised $22,000.00 for the family.  Way to go friends and people in the Saugeen Shores and surrounding communities !!!

Tim and Sarah of the Green Door Cafe here in Wiarton have organized a Fundraising Event as well.  This Event will be as follows:

April 27th:

Mark April 27th on your calendar @ Sunset Lanes. Why? Because Sunset Lanes, Chef Tim Panchyshyn and Country Music entertainer Tommy Gilham are hosting a fundraiser at Sunset Lanes in Port Elgin for the McKenzie Family.

The McKenzie family lost their home. all their possessions, pets(including a litter of puppes) to a fire. And as we know insurance doesn't always cover everything - so all donations - both big and small - are appreciated.
Tommy Gilham and Special Guest Graham Trude are the entertainment for the day. Yeah you read that right – Recording Artist and Country music fan favourite Tommy Gilham is performing in Port Elgin. And one of Ontario's newest country talent Graham Trude is performing for this fundraiser for Blaine and Kathy too.How lucky are we - and how fortunate are Blaine and Kathy to have these entertainers giving their time and talent to the cause!

Both of these entertainers’ music and talent will keep you smilin' and your toes a tappin' (both are singer-songwriters).

As if you need another reason to attend - the lunch will be created by Chef Tim Panchyshyn. Tim is the Chef and owner of the Green Door Cafe. People drive for miles to his café in downtown Wiarton to sample his fare. Now you can try it for yourself….

Tickets are a steal at only $15! On sale right now at Sunset Lanes and Cathy's Flowers's in Port Elgin.  Here in Wiarton at Hair Solutions, Berford Street.

Phew I really hope I didn't miss any "other" upcoming April Events, as my calendar is overflowing as it is!

Also before I forget there seems to be a lot of unpleasant "Internet" thefts going on of late, and probably for quite some time.  I always "try" to credit any recipe I have used back to the original creator, or photos the same.  I had myself the most interesting and well put read this afternoon when I had came across a post shared by Jo-Anna @ A Pretty Life in the Suburbs on her Facebook Page.  

Thanks for sharing Jo-Anna, and thanks to the decorated cookie for her post on ....

"Click" HERE:   cyber-bullying… a trend that’s changing everything

Once again a very thought out and well put post.  Thank you for addressing this matter with hopes more people "share" your post.

This morning I  headed North of the Checkerboard, as today is Friday and Fridays are the day I get a shot in the arm by the Good Doctor Loney.  By the way the shot in the arm was almost painless today, with many thanks to the Good Doctor himself for this.

"Across from the doctor's office the farm fields were finally "void" of snow.  Also when one passes a Motorcycle on the Highway, this really is a sure sign of Spring, is it not???"

By the time I returned back home to let the whole "gang", plus Lunette out, about and back in, did up a pile of dishes (again), made the bed, spoke to my sister on the phone, it was the Lunch Hour !!!  Jeez another day when nothing "extra" was accomplished.  I am following way behind this year in the "accomplishment" department.  I am going to end up with a big fat "F" this Year if I don't watch myself ... oh man !!!

Oh I did sweep the Bandit dust and dirt from the floors too.

When I had gotten the mail there had been a ticket there for a package to be picked up in Wiarton.  Rob was heading home for Dinner late this afternoon, so I asked him to stop in to pick it up for me to save me going into town.  This he did and I was so excited when I seen him coming in the house with this great big package !!!

"Whoot whoot !!!  Electrolux sent me a BRAND NEW Egrorapido ultra + Cordless 2-in-1 Stick and Hand Vac !!!!  for FREE ! as there had been a recall on them.  I LOVE the new colour much better the the old one too, and it even has a LED headlight!  Thank YOU, Electrolux."

Oh boy oh boy oh boy, I LOVE me some HAPPY MAIL !!!!  who doesn't love Happy Mail ???  Really now?  I have really been getting blessed with great Customer Service experiences this Year so far....keep it comin' baby !!!

Rob and I had a homemade Spaghetti Dinner together.  He had a couple hours of being home before he had to put his "Crabby Cabbie" hat back on and head back out down the highway.

Another BLAST FROM MY PAST !!!  

Need a "cuteness" fix for the day? *click* right HERE.  We are so happy, as our Checkerboard Aussies have 103 Followers now on their Facebook Page, and 11 on their Blog !  Way to go my beauties and thank you to all who support them.

Speaking of Aussies it is that time of night to be out, about and back in for the last time this day, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".

Welcome To Facebook

I was up and at it in the wee hours of 5 am this morning.  Dishes done up, bed made and all my social networking done by at least 7 am.

Now the broken fan has been replaced in the Freezer yesterday by Rob, I thought today would be a great day to sort and transfer everything back in there.  It never happened.

The phone rang before 8 am.  My brother wondered if I could pick our Mother up to take to the Hairdressers for her hair colour, and he would pick her up.  I got myself dressed, took care of everyone, then was out the door just after 9 am, as her appointment was at 10.

I made a stop on my way at the Sears outlet to pick up a Spring catalogue, as I want to get some new nighties ordered for Mom, then I headed over to Gateway to collect her.  I had her dropped off and settled in at the Hairdresser right on time.

I thought I would take a little stroll downtown to see what my friend, Gayle, was up to as she had asked me over a week ago if I would take some photos of the store she manages, since they had just recently set up a Facebook Page for it.

Yes Gayle had been there, and yes, I took some photos for their Facebook Page ...

" Welcome to Facebook Wiarton Salvation Army Thrift Store ! "

The Wiarton Sally Ann does an Auction that is Theme based, I believe every month or so.  This Month's Theme is everything that has to do with "Music".  There is a book you can place your bid on each individual item(s).  The highest bidder on each individual item(s) is then contacted at the end of the Auction.  It really is fun, with myself having participated a few times.

Lots of pretty neat items are available for this Music themed auction:

"These are only a few of the items up for Auction that I was able to capture with my camera."

 

 

You can keep up with future Auctions and special at the Wiarton Salvation Army Thrift Store by going into your Facebook Account and giving their Page a really big LIKE,  just a *click* away HERE.

Now do not forget it is a very new Facebook page, and new to everyone, even to its administrator, so be patient as it will be looking "top notch" before you know it, so just give it a bit of time.  In the meantime drop on in at the Wiarton Salvation Army Thrift Store on Bedford Street (Main Street) and get your bids placed in the book for some of the neat musical things they have now displayed in their window.

I was tickled pink though as I did splurge a bit on myself by buying "me" a couple of Vintage items today.

"I love Oil Lamps.  Look at this cool old one I snagged.  Then there was this little Vintage Easter Basket with the two cute little Salt & Pepper Bunnies inside.  I though they would make a perfect gift for someone, don't you think they would?"

By the time I had returned home it was about the lunch hour.  My plans never were accomplished today, but this is okay as I really wasn't feeling up to doing anything much anyhow as yesterday first thing in the morning my feet had went out from under me on the ice and I landed straight down on my backside.  My back has been killing me all day, never mind that I am feeling a little "under the once a month" weather to top it all of !  Tomorrow is another new day ....

What I did get done was to arrange some advertising and PR for my "Crabby Cabbie" and set up some other things for him.  Really this was a bit time consuming so it wasn't like I never accomplished anything, I just never got the freezer put back together this day, nor any much needed housework done either.

I am really pleased that the "Crabby Cabbie" Facebook page is growing with 86 people giving it a great big LIKE by following him, as well as our "Checkerboard Aussie" Facebook page having already climbed up to 78 followers.

We would appreciate any and all support from Saugeen Shores, Southampton, Port Elgin and area, for the "Crabby Cabbie".  Also support shown for the love of the Australian Shepherd Dog towards our "Checkerboard Aussies".  Thank you to all, and anytime I can show support on your Facebook page or otherwise, please drop me a line to let me know.


It never fails how badly I might feel in a day, there is always one or another of my "Checkerboard Aussies" to put a smile on my face.

"My Bandit never lets me down with one of his famous *smiles*, or two, or three, even more continuously some days."

This is an earlier post then usual.  I am going to take out all the "gang", then hopefully soak my back in a hot tub (once the Hydro Rates go down at 7 pm).  Relax a bit before taking the "gang" out and about for one more last time, then call it an early night for myself, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".

Just Another Day

When you are tired sometimes it seems like one day runs into another without really anything standing out in a big way in some of them.  Today was "just another day" like that for me, with a couple of exceptions.

My regular routine out, about and in with the "Checkerboard Aussies" was most pleasant today however, as the weather was absolutely beautiful with the Sun out in full force.  My morning was filled with a couple phones calls sorting out an upcoming family change, with the rest of the day getting our bedroom and the bathroom cleaned, as well as doing a load of laundry to hang to dry on the clothes horses in front of the wood stove.

Nothing really spectacular at all, other then one pretty amazing thing that did stand out in the whole day ... really I know I should have been dusting off my treadmill down in the basement, but something else was way more amazing to watch then doing that.

"The "Checkerboard Aussie's" Fabulous Four only into their fourth day, are even now  wonderous to watch.  It was even more amazing watching Mama Lexus on how she draws them into her.  Young pups at this age do not hear or see, but do smell, but who needs to when you have such a great Mama looking after you .... "

"Pulling, pulling, nudging, nudging ... there you are, all in "snug as a bug in a rug".  Good job Mama Lexus."

Names have already been chosen for two of the Fabulous Four.  The Blue Merle Female has been named Bindi, and the Red Merle Female is Lunette.  Both very unique and suitable for these girls.  Thanks to their Forever Homes, Jamilyn and Mike for sharing their names with us.

Three of the Fabulous Four have been spoken for, with someone coming to see the little Red Tri this Saturday.  I am certain they will be smitten by her, do you think?

Oh yes I did have one other thing today that rose some excitement within me causing the blood to flow a bit faster in my veins .. this happened when I happened to come by this recipe at the following link:

Mom On TIME OUT

Oh my oh my ... I best keep on that treadmill if I am going to be treating myself with a pan couple of these next Christmas, if not sooner, as they have been pinned to my Christmas Goodie 2013 Board on Pinterest.

These are the kind of goodies you know you might just as well sit on, as that is where I know they will end up on me !

If you haven't already, make sure you qualify yourself for a chance at my February 1st Give Away, by finding out all the details ... just a *click* away HERE.

Tomorrow will be another day in my life, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".

February 1 ST GIVE AWAY

My day started again at 3:00 am.  This is three days in a row, no wonder I feel so tired and my eyes are blurry.  Once I had a coffee part way into me, I had to do up a "Crabby Cabbie" invoice so Rob could be out the door before 6:30 am.  He was out the door with me following shortly after with giving each of the "Checkerboard Aussies" their first out and about to start the day.

The remainder of my morning was spend getting a few things prepped and ready for ..... The "Crabby Cabbie" Facebook page, as well as a couple other Facebook media resources.

"The "Crabby Cabbie" Taxi will be servicing Wiarton & Area for the Wiarton Willie Festival from 6 pm Friday Feb 1 until Sunday Feb 3 at 6 pm. Business Number to call for South Bruce Peninsula is 519-477-5950. See you out there in Willie Country!"

Many thanks to Karen Lancaster of Karen's Creations & Scrapbooking for setting up a template for The "Crabby Cabbie" Wiarton Business Cards.  A huge thank you to Holly Morrow of The "Cluttered Cupboard" for making us up a QR Code, linking it it to  The "Crabby Cabbie" Facebook page.  Another big thank you to Koreen Ryan of RAM Trophies and Sportswear for issuing Rob's "Crabby Cabby" logo on his shirts, hats and jacket.  I can't say enough how much I admire the talent these three wonderful ladies possess.

Pssst .... got a minute?  *Click* on the above business names and give them a BIG old "LIKE" on their Facebook Page, and tell them I sent you around (this will be a surprise to them, believe you, me ... *smile*).

Another huge thank you goes out to the Explore the Bruce Team for posting the above SHOUT OUT on their Facebook page, as that was a big help to get the word out at the last minute for us.

Nice to know there is such "awesome" teamwork and support within our Community.

Actions like these are why I LOVE supporting the Communities and the Small Businesses who Support them and Each Other !  HOORAY !!!!

Speaking of talent, some of you will remember not too long ago I won an original drawing from local Bruce Peninsula Artist, Michelle Hogan Equine & Fine Art.

"This is the drawing, "Carefree".  Read all about it over HERE."

When Michelle had been down my way to drop off my "Carefree" to me, she had also dropped around a beautiful package of her Gift Cards, you can read more about that HERE.

"Today is the day I am offering theses same Michelle Hogan Equine & Fine Art Gift Cards in a Give Away."

Rules to Qualify for this February 1st, Give Away:

1)  You must be a FOLLOWER of my Blog, by a) Joining As a Follower, b) Through Subscribing Via Email   Both these options are available at the sidebar of my blog;

2)  You must leave me a comment that you do follow my Blog and how you follow it, either in the Comment section below, or via Email at justnorthofwiarton@live.ca

3)  Go to Michelle Hogan's Facebook Page HERE,  to "LIKE" it, leaving me a comment you have done so.  Should you not have a Facebook Account, go to her website HERE and leave a comment for me here, or via email on which one of the three photos on Michelle's Contact page you liked the most.  (I expect full honesty on the Facebook Acct, please).

A winner will randomly be drawn one week from now on the 8th of February, 2013.

Please note I do not receive any remuneration from any of these businesses I have mentioned in my post.  I believe we support each other, as I LOVE doing so,wishing many more would think this way. or as people in general should as well.

Okay now for the January No/Low Spend and Declutter Challenge update I had entered in over at the lovely Carla's at My 1/2 Dozen Daily.

The following is what I am going to try and attempt to do, when and if I am able:

Declutter Challenge:

1)  Declutter and clean the whole portion of the basement where the dogs reside; DONE

2)  Declutter and clean the downstairs bathroom;

3)  Declutter and clean the bottom stair area; DONE

4)  Declutter and clean the kitchen cupboards.

Trust me there is more to do, but I have to begin somewhere, and this is enough at the moment.

The Declutter Challenge I think I did amazingly well considering I had a lot of other personal things going on in the Month of January.  I had also decluttered the Bathroom Linen Closet, cleaned the Fridge from top to bottom, and decluttered some more from our Bedroom Closet.  

Low/No Spend Challenge:

1)  Spend absolutely no money at the grocery store, making an exception for milk and bread;

2)  Having 6 out of 7 "no spend" days per week; 

3)  No eating out for the month, with the one exception outlined below (good thing we had King's Buffet today, is it not?);  DONE

JANUARY SPENDING:  

Groceries:     $  104..56  (went beyond the milk & bread);

Misc:               $    63.50  

Canada Post:  $   16.78  (this was part of the "giving" to someone else, making me happy too)

Even with the pre-planned trip to Costco, my total spending this month was only $378.16.  

Not sure about what Carla will think, but I am thinking I might not get an A+ this Challenge, but I most certainly should get a big E+ for the Effort !

Now for the 5 week "Check In" on the 52 Week Money Challenge, Toni, Judy, Stacey, Michelle, Diane, Ellen, Debby, Cathy, Jean, Karen, Elsie, Gill, Darlene, Vicki, Abby, Marg, Janet, Farmgirl Files, Christy, Alice, Monica & Kathy.  

Hoping everyone is still "on board"?  realizing, of course, everyone is doing the Challenge what their own budget allows with the end result being the same.   I will do another update with this Challenge in another month's time.

My Rob would LOVE to extend a really big Thank You for all the Birthday Wishes you all sent his way.  It sure put another *smile* on his face, other then the one when he was going to dig into his piece of Carrot Cake of course.

Psst ... check out the amazing recommendation my "Checkerboard Aussies" got yesterday by *clicking* HERE.  I am so proud !!!

That was a really big day !  Would you believe me if I told you I was tired? of course you would, friends always believe each other.  I am signing off and heading into my evening here, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".

A Wee Bit On The Nippy Side

The alarm went off, Rob was up, dressed and out to the kitchen to make coffee for us.  I followed shortly getting the soup heated for him to take along in his thermos. 

It was "a wee bit on the nippy side" this morning as temperatures were down to -32*C with the Wind Chill first thing.  From what I had heard on Facebook was we had gotten off pretty easy as others had -40* .... and I know what that "deep freeze" feels like.

"Two of these things go together, and one of these things doesn't belong ... ha, remember that ditty?   I had to bring out the "big guns" in head gear this morning.  Really is there truth behind the saying, "you loose the most body heat through your head?".  There must be, as I do feel warmer with a hat on when out in sub-zero temperatures."

"Later this morning the temperatures did rise somewhat.  Still Bandit couldn't roll in the snow today and had to walk about at times on three legs, as they hadn't gone up enough."

"A little conferring and some loving going on here between Bandt and Lexus?  Maybe a bit of "how are we going to manage the kids when they arrive on or about the 6th of February?".  "

Lexus had to return to the house on three legs too.  With Lexus back in,  Missy Mercedes was ready to go out."

"Lots and lots of fun, until the cold finally got to Missy Mercedes' little paws too."

"Nothing holds back our "Go Dog Go" Buddy !"

In-between the out, about and in with the "Checkerboard Aussies" all day, I did manage to get our bedroom cleaned and the buffet dusted all off, before I tackled the "it really needed done" fridge as part of the Decluttering Mini Challenge for this week.

"Oh man, it is a lot of work taking everything out, washing it all down and placing it all back in, minus the stuff I was embarrassed to have had thrown out.  It was a feeling of relief once it was all done, "let me tell the World" !"

After putting every back, washing a sinkful of dishes once food from them had been discarded, it was back out with my "pack" into the deep freeze before I got Dinner started.  Just before starting Dinner I had this scenario going on in the kitchen ....

"Really Bandit?  Really? are you trying to double "guilt" me out here by saying 1) I don't feed you, and/or 2) I don't play enough with you?  Give it up boy, one or the other??  Never a dull moment in our days together."

"Tonight's Dinner did get underway.  Loving that I have my own Homemade Black Bean & Corn Salsa to grab from the shelf when the need arises.  Salsa into the browned ground beef and onion, followed by a can of Black Beans, Zesty Italian Dressing and Chili Powder."

"Layered goodness from out of the Oven topped with fresh lettuce and tomato ... "

Recipe please?  PRINTABLE RECIPE *CLICK* HERE.

Special Thanks to Alice for emailing me that today she tried the Chicken & Broccoli Braid from yesterday's post, with great success, as well as it being a "hit" with herself and her hubby.  I LOVE when I get some feedback to know others are trying the recipes and/or ideas I post from time to time.

Also a warm welcome to the newest four people who have chosen to join me here as followers of my daily journal, along with the odd, one, two, or three opinions and issues I might ramble on about from time to time.  It is nice to know others have the same interests I might have on occasion too.

Oopsie .... before I forget, another little reminder about what is happening down Saugeen Shores way in the Town of Port Elgin this Friday, as I am sure you won't want to miss out on a Homemade Luncheon should you be given the chance of one.

"Come Along to the Tolmie Presbyterian Church, located at 699 Goderich Street for an amazing luncheon.  How do I know this? of course by attending myself on previous occasions."

Would it surprise anyone that I still have dishes in the kitchen that need washed, or I am feeling very tired at the moment, or that my "Checkerboard Aussies" need to go out, about and in again one last time tonight, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".