Straight From The Heart

Last night the Grammy Awards were on TV, which I managed to stay awake right up until Tim McGraw gave his performance.  I am very happy to hear him sing the heartfelt rendition of the song Glen Campbell had wrote for his family before all had been lost to him as he once knew it to be.

Alzheimer's is a terrible disease for a family to witness happening to their loved one.  My own Mother has dementia (which is the most common type of Alzheimer's)and for the past couple of Years told us all she was 80 years old.  She in fact was going on 87 years this year.  Not even a couple of weeks ago she gave her age correctly at 86 years.  

Alzheimer's is not a disease that only the elderly suffer.  I have personally heard of people in their late 40's and early 50's be diagnosed with this disease.  

My friend's father suffered terribly with Alzheimer's, reliving the days when he had been a medic overseas in World War II.  His poor mind tortured with reliving those days had to be horrifying at times.  Something we never want to experience ourselves.  The pain the families of people suffering with this disease have their own times of self-suffering and sadness beyond sadness at times.  

My thought is good memories of times spent with a person suffering are the ones to hold tightly to, as what else is a person to do?

Every so often I get myself in a "funk".  I have been in a "funk" for almost a Year now and I am having a very difficult time getting myself out of it.  Nobody can do anything for me but support and try to understand what I go through day after day.  The past few months, actually since December 7th, I have spiralled downwards.

It is difficult for some of to admit we are experiencing a mental illness for all the World to hear, as my generation grew up to believe it was a weakness of character.  This belief causes some of us more despair.  

With Fibromyalgia, comes depression.  My Fibro has been heightened the past several months with my muscles feeling like they are going to burst from my skin the pain has been so bad.  Fatigue causing some days almost unbearable to live.   All this time the depression has also gotten worse  

Depression has many faces, with usually the real one hidden which an untrained eye might never witness.

Depression has many forms ... despair, lack of interest, overeating, anxiety, poor health, and much more if I were to think longer on it, or feel like thinking longer on it.

My Doctor has been trying different medications to help me with the Fibro and depression.  I am on a third try with a different medication.  They take time to get in ones system to see if they help or not.  I am hoping this one helps, as if not it means starting all over again with a fourth medication.

This statement:   However, chronic pain can cause feelings of anxiety and depression, which may worsen fibromyalgia symptoms.

The article I took  the above statement from can be found by going HERE.

Believe me, nobody, including myself, wants to live most of their life with Chronic pain, fatigue and depression.  It has gotten to the point of being so bad I do not even want people to come to my home anymore, or really want to do much.  I find myself fretting about my son's upcoming wedding this Year, and a Family Reunion.  These should be happy times in my Life for me, but at the moment cause me anxiety that I seem unable to control as much as I have tried.  

My home feels like it is falling down around me.  I guess the only thing that has been keeping me sane is HAVING to look after our Aussies.  I think about how much time might be spent in bed if I did not have our Aussies.  My husband is also been very supportive, to the point when I had been invited out yesterday, I came home to the dishes washed for me and the bed made.  Bless his heart, he might not be comfortable discussing how I am feeling at times, but he does show he understands and cares.  This morning, one of the coldest this Winter, he even let me stay in bed while he looked after our four Aussies, then called me at 7:30 am with a Tim Horton's coffee.  He is a keeper (now he is almost fully trained, mind you), and I love him with all my heart.

My friend, Vicki, has been my rock the past few months.  I know at times I impose on her, but not once as she not taken the time out of her life to hear how I am feeling, or not feeling.  Thank you Vicki, I love you even more for this then I might never say.

There it is out.  I have been hiding my sluggish behaviour behind my smiles and push myself energy, that I have barely had any of. 

Now I have said it, I pray I can stop beating myself up about not getting my house clean, or barely getting the book work done, or forgetting an appointment, or not feeling like going some where. 

Now maybe I can concentrate on getting myself better, as if I am better I will feel better for myself and others.

I love living ! and I have for months been anguishing over not being capable of living life as I want to.  This I need to work towards again to reclaim my Life as I want it without fatigue and depression. Pain I am used to and can tolerate, it is what has been going along with the pain that causes me my dilemma .  

To be quite honest, not only is it the Fibromyalgia, Fatigue and Depression, Menopause also has contributed to my health, or lack of it.  Not a great combination at the best of times I am sure.  

I know I am not the only person who is suffering from some type of illness, but this is happening to me and I am owning it by living it day in and day out.  I need to keep working towards that light which I know will put a REAL smile on my face and give me those belly laughs back that tickle me pink.

I have risen above the darkness before, and I know I can do it again, it just takes more energy some days then others.

Just as I had sat down to write this post, my friend, Vicki, had sent this video to me .... never a lack of encouragement from her, and yes it did make me *smile*.  Thank you xx

More *smiles* can be found over on The "Checkerboard Aussies", Australian Shepherd Dogs' Facebook page by going HERE.  

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

Some Days ...

What a gorgeous day it was with a full sky of sunshine despite double digits in the minuses from -20 to -13, with the barometer sitting at -10 presently outside my doors.

The Festive Five 2014 Litter was recycled again this morning while I cleaned out a very "stinky" pen.  Mornings are the worse, as throughout the daytime I keep on top of it between 3 time feedings.  Their personalities have really been showing, as well as lots and lots of Aussie puppy energy.  Should it not be so cold I would have had them all for a romp in the snow to burn some of that energy off ... brrr it has been.

The other day I had posted the Wiarton Train Station which is located down in Wiarton's Bluewater Park, abutting the shoreline of Colpoy's Bay.

Today a follower on Wiarton's Facebook page shared their photo of when the Wiarton Train Station was moved to where it now sits.  More captivating information may be read by *clicking* HERE.  I love History and thought this all to be very interesting.

My Son, Paul,  had the surgery on his broken finger completed last night around 11 pm.  He is to be off from his job for a month with it, doing hand therapy within that timeline.

The swelling is up and the pain unbearable.  Yes at the tip is the wire sticking out of the top of his finger.  I do not think my Paul will be sticking his hand into a plugged snow blower anytime in the near future or ever again.  I shirk at the thoughts of how much pain he is experiencing with this.

Some days I think I could throw in the towel.  Today was one of those days.  I went to see my Doctor today where it was determined my medications needed to be "changed up" again to find a better fit.  The meds I will be switching to cause weight gain.  I have never had a weight problem until the past Year wherein I have gained 20 lbs., which is 20 lbs more then what I weighted when 9 months expecting with my youngest son !  YIKES !!!   To me it has been 20 lbs of depression, and to hear I will probably be gaining more weight almost sent me over the edge.

This new medication is to get the Fibromyalgia's chronic pain/depression/fatigue under control as it had been spiraling downward again the past Year.  Fibro requires one pacing themselves and routine.  My life the past Year has afforded neither, and until it does I am beginning to realize I need help through medication.  I had been on Lyrica for two years with barely to no relief at all, and did not want to continue putting chemicals in my body which were not giving me any relief.  Now we are trying a couple different kinds of meds to see if we can find a "fit".

Menopause thrown into the mix has not been kind at all, as most woman who experience can attest to.

Unseen diseases are so difficult for the one who suffers with them.  Should another not see, or have felt same themselves, the disease they do not "get it".  Really those people who say or think, "just get over it" truly drive me mad, as no some things you just can't "get over" by snapping your fingers. 

A battle within, usually spent in Silence, can be the most difficult for some of us at the best of times.  Good friends, family, understanding and support makes all the difference in the World.  I have gone on and on about the same things I have been going through continuously with a couple of my very good friends, and my one Sister, who listen and never stop me ... it helps to have that kind of understanding and support, and I pray I always give the same back when it is required of me.

I am happy I started blogging, coming up four years now, as I have found it to be a release some of the time to get it out before me.  I do it for myself, as it is something nobody can take from me, with how I feel.  My feelings & thoughts will always be my own, as the days of being what other people wanted me to be are long behind me..

How will I go forward? well I did not handle the news to well first off, immediately going to the grocery store buying 3 pints of blueberries and eating them all myself.  Yes it was a healthy binge, but still one that cost me 600 calories.  The upside was I was beyond full and if I had ate one 500 calorie Time Horton's donut I might not have achieved a full feeling probably going for 5 more donuts... *smile*.  Since time does not wait for us, I will go forward attempting to see the light at the end of my tunnel hoping it holds health and wellness.  What more could one wish for?

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

"Special" Deliveries

What an amazing sight to drink in as soon as you walk out the door first thing in the Morning.  Were you as fortunate as I to have such an experience?

Lots to do today with nothing at home being accomplished.  This seems to be my life past months having become common.  Am I liking it? absolutely not, however for the time being this is the way it is to be whether I care for it or not.

After running around this morning I had to be somewhat presentable to head off to my Doctor's appointment at 11 am.  

Have I mentioned yet how much I LOVE Dr. David (Diodati)? he is such a great all around person, and Doctor too.  I learned that my blood work all came back with A+'s in all departments.  My Bad Cholesterol is still Good !!!  and my sugar is also awesome.  My Blood Pressure? right on the money.  Not bad for a gal who weaned herself off all kinds of medication, eats lots of veggies, fruit, yogurt and very seldom eats red meats.  Junk Food, very very seldom, if I overeat it has been usually good food choices, but still overeating.  My biggest "junk food" downfall would have to be Ice Cream, if you consider Ice Cream "junk food"?  I consider it HEAVENLY !

However the Fibromyalgia has been getting the best of me the past few months since I have not been keeping a regular routine, eating habits and exercise.  These three things play a huge role in controlling Fibromyalgia symptoms and flare-ups.  

Dr. David asked me if I would try a prescription medication called Cymbalta.  At one time I had been on Lyrica for two years with hardly any results that did not warrant the cost of the drug, nor the chemicals in my body.  I agreed I would give it a try to see if it will help with the daily Chronic pain of the Fibro and the degenerative disk disease in my neck.

Before I left Dr. David's office he said he wished all his Fibro patients had such a good handle on what Fibro symptoms require, most importantly exercise.  Regardless of how bad the daily chronic pain, should one get on a regular daily exercise routine, trust me the benefits of lessening the Chronic Pain is truly amazing.  We are hoping until I can get some order back in my life,  seeing if the Cymbalta gives me some kind of relief, hopefully sooner then later.

Dr. David assured me if I was not feeling any benefits, that we would take me off the medication immediately.  I am happy he understands how I feel about medications.  

Another problem I have had the past few months is extreme allergy symptoms in the way of hives, prickly itching on the back of my neck, head and edges of my scalp and burning.  Almost like eczema but it isn't.  Dr. David has prescribed a lotion and instructed me to use Head & Shoulders shampoo along with it. It has been driving me to the edge most days.  Hopefully I get some relief soon as I feel like my head has been lousy for the past couple months ... bring out the coal oil !!  

When I returned home from my Dr's appointment I walked up into our living area to find I had a "special" delivery by way of my hubby and his friend.

They had gone down to Singhampton to get our "new to us" leather recliner couch.  The Quilt? that was gifted to me by my friend, Cathy, who I used to volunteer with VON.  I had put the word out on Facebook I was in the market for quilts to use as throws on our new furniture to protect from our dear Bandit's and or Portia's claws.  Thanks Cathy, not only appreciated it, I also absolutely love it.

I only need a couple more for the chairs to use as throws when we are not home, so I will keep my fingers crossed I come across a couple more as nice as the one Cathy had gifted me.

Today there had been two "Special" Deliveries.  The first being the couch, and the second being ...

... no, not Portia, the box containing our Winter Cover for our Gazebo.  Happy happy if it means we can leave our lawn furniture out there and not worry about carting it back and forth to the basement in the Spring and Fall.  Portia had herself lots of fun by having an adventure on the box.

Rob and his friend managed to get a huge dent in the wood pile between what they had done yesterday and today.  Lots has been stacked in the basement and the rest is almost piled into the wood shed now.  Hopefully it will be enough for another harsh Winter they are calling for and we don't run out again at the beginning of January.  I am pretty confident that over 10 cords will do us just fine.

Robs back is in much pain, needless to say, so he needs to take a break and rest it the next couple of days.  I hope we both get a good sleep this evening, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

Ho Hum ?

Truly it wasn't a Ho Hum day, but it was one that got off to a slow start as Rob never arrived home until 4 am, so I had tried to tipppy toe around trying to be quiet.  Try to keep a puppy quiet when she thinks she should be otherwise bossy and vocal ... doesn't happen quite that easily.

Poor Rob finally did get up.  I made him some lunch then got the dishes done up before I tackled our bedroom with the duster and vacuum, then got two loads of laundry washed and out on the line.  I never thought I was going to get any laundry out today as it was very grey, overcast and cool.  We finally got a wee bit of Sun late morning, then again late afternoon.

I really need some time to get things caught up before the boys get here, then it will be a mess again, but a good mess, with one day to get organized again prior to going to have my Gall Bladder out on the 2nd of Sept.  Tuesday I have to be in at the Owen Sound Hospital for the pre-opt stuff to be done.  Haven't done that before so it will be a "first for me", although it will all be routine bloodwork, blood pressure, etc...

Rob is hoping tomorrow we have a dry day as our lawn need cut, and the trimming is beyond needing done.  I actually took a couple of minutes to dead head my rose bushes, and felt better for doing so, even though my other flower beds disgust me to even glance there way.  I somehow have to do them just to satisfy myself that they were done, when I have no idea !!!

I belong to a couple Fibromyalgia pages on Facebook.  Today I had a bit of a good read from one that I thought I would share.  Sharing is always good for everyone most times I think.  Like anything else, take what you need for yourself, and leave the rest.  Check it out by *clicking* HERE.  

Our RV we purchased only has one mattress on it and it is hard as a rock.  My trigger points send me almost through the roof sleeping on it.  I have been searching for a Memory Foam Topper at a reasonable price.  I tried a few options such as Walmart and Sears, then found a really great deal ordering online from Costco.  I am pretty pleased with my purchase and it sure is a less expensive option then another mattress.  The great deal, with $60.00 off, I got was HERE.  I am always thrilled when I can get a deal.  I am thinking this was the only thing I needed for the RV as I have extra everything else still from our 5th wheel.  Maybe a thick warm comforter as I had one that I had just given to my niece.

Believe it or not, my Rob is still working as he just left out to do a call.  Me?  I am going to finish up here and call it a night, as I am very very, as usual, tired, Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard.

A Cousin Here & Cousin There !

 This morning was another "tidy up" morning, but in all honesty there wasn't too much that got tidied up other then a few dishes done, and the bed made.  Truly where does the time go to some days? as I seem to be loosing it more often then naught this last Year.

I was to meet up with my first Cousin Suzanne for a pre-arranged luncheon, since last March was the last time we had gotten together, or so we had thought.  But again who knows, and truly I am too tired to dwell on it any further.

I gave Suzie "Q" the choice of meeting for lunch at the Green Door Cafe, or the Berford StreetTea Room.  She chose the Green Door Cafe.  Who but another of our first Cousins did we see there with his wife, Marlene.  Yes our Cousin Bob from Southampton was there also having lunch.  Ha ! what were the chances of that happening? pretty darn good in Bruce County some days I am sure.

The Lunch "special" was a Clubhouse Melt on a Pita, choice side of soup, salad or fries.  Goodness knows after having fried yesterday I sure didn't need any today, so Caesar Salad was my choice, while Suzanne's had been the soup.

We had our lunch and also did a bit of "catching up".  Truly it is nice to have two first Cousins, Suzanne, and Vi,  to always know I have the support and understanding if every need be, as they are also both sufferers of Fibromyalgia.  Suzanne always asks how I am feeling and coping with it every day.  Not only that I have Marie, Karen & "Buttons", who I met through blogging, who also suffer, understanding and are all awesome support for me too !  Then there are those close friends, and family, who "get it", and that also is very much appreciated.

Not familiar with Fibromyalgia? please take a moment to read a bit about it HERE.  Knowledge lends to greater understanding of something you can NOT see, but what is REAL to others.

After we wrapped up Lunch, I took Suzanne across the road to The Berford Street Tea Room.  She remembered owner, Debby, from when they had the Memories Store in Southampton, which used to be Plante's Pool Hall on High Street.  Small World it is at times.  It was then and there decided we would be having lunch at the Berford Street Tea Room next time around.  Truly it is a lovely spot, and everything is Homemade by the owner, Debby.

Time had once flown by again, with us going our separate ways until the next time we meet up again.  Usually Suzanne, Vi, Auntie and I get together for a Christmas Luncheon every Year, so maybe then?

Before going back home I made a couple of Courtesy calls in Wiarton on behalf of my "Crabby Cabbie" to hopefully drum up some business for us.  Nothing like cold calling up front and in person, is there?  I also made a couple of phone calls when I did return home.

Once back home I also called up the Good Doctor to get my Rob in since he has not been feeling well for over 3 weeks now.   His headaches have remained severe and not subsided much.  Now if that was me I would not be too concerned since I live with headaches day in and day out, but my Rob ..... no way.  Our appointment today was set for 3:30 pm.

When we got into Rob's Doctor's appointment we covered a few points, then Rob's Blood Pressure was taken .... WOW ! that was not a good reading, as it was HIGH, and he takes Blood Pressure pills daily too.  And from his last report his Triglyceride levels were up as well .... we are scheduled for another appointment with the Good Doctor again next week.  

Being older, less active and eating the same as we did when we were younger and more active does not produce the same results as when we were "under the age of 50".  There will have to be changes, and not only for Rob.  I am going to have to give up the fear of injury to my knee again and start walking sooner then later.  I just need to find the time and get into a routine of doing it.  Wish me luck as I have been trying to get back into this program for the past year now with no success of doing so up until now.

"The "Crabby Cabbie" had a couple of passengers, one looking a little bit more under the weather then the other, don't you think?

Ha ! I had gotten these two Curious Georges off the Lion's Head Swap for "FREE".  I though the kids would have a bit of fun with them wrestling with them.

I have been invited to "This Shining Night" here in Wiarton at the St. John's United Church.  Advanced Tickets available now at Josies of Wiarton, so get yours now !

I think it might be a fun afternoon out, thinking it will sell out pretty quickly.  And a NEW piece by our own local Rob Ritchie too !!!

Another "Jam Packed" day ahead of me again tomorrow.  I sure hope I get something done around here, as truly there has been much lacking in the housework department of late, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".

Beauty Of The Morning

Just before 7 am, when I walked back into the dining room towards the wood stove something caught my eye outside the window .... I found my camera, hurried to get into my jacket and I was out the door, as I did not want to miss ...

"... the Beauty of the Morning."

It took my breath away with its beauty.  Absolutely stunning it was.  It never last too long; how blessed was I to have been able to take it all in.  I pray it is a sign for better days ahead.

The "Checkerboard Aussies" all taken care of and the bed made, before I headed North of the Checkerboard to my weekly appointment with the Good Doctor Loney for the hour of 9 am.

My appointment this day went well being the allergy shot didn't hurt too much, and my blood pressure was down from last week.  Both very good in my books.  I am being sent for more x-rays on my neck.  For those who know me, know I suffer from Degenerative Disc Disease in my neck which 4 years ago was diagnosed with being Moderate to Severe, making for lots of pain and discomfort some days more then others, hence part of the reason for my headaches, the reason I do not knit or read rarely anymore  The neck pain is just one more thing that has slowed me down from life as I used to know it at 150 miles per hour, along with the Fibromyalgia and Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Four years ago I had seen the Head  Orthopedic Surgeon at the Barrie Hospital.  After the consultation with him, with the MRI results of my neck removed, his personal examination and a discussion in length how and what I felt, his conclusion was I would no longer be able work at regular employment, suggesting I do not subject myself to repetitive activities, however also not recommending surgery as I was way too young and the outcome of  surgery could worsen my condition.

Dr. Loney has first ordered an x-ray before anything else, to see if this will show up anything to be worse then it was when I last had x-rays two years ago March 2nd after being in a car accident, wherein my vehicle flipped three or more times after hitting black ice.  I remember the attending Doctor at Emergency at that time asking me if I realized how bad my neck was, wherein I panicked thinking the accident had caused more damage to it ... a second x-ray at that time had been taken to make sure it had not.

I am pleased to say, Dr. Loney is pretty much "on top" of these things if there have been "red flags" put up.  My "red flags" have been that I have been experiencing absolutely no feeling from my neck down into both arms at times, since just before Christmas, to the point I have felt paralysed, sitting unable to move with a fearful feeling until it passed.  I feel very scared when this happens.

X-rays should be done next week, with it really not being too long until it is determined what the next "plan of action" will be from there on in.  In the meantime he has prescribed a different type of pain medication to see if this gives me more relief then what I have been taking.  I am confident it will be all sorted out in no time.

This is the reason why some days I get less done then other days ... oh for the days when I could do up our house and almost turn cartwheels at the same time.  Ha !

Truly though I am happy for what I do have more then naught,  which is countless blessings even though some days I get weighed down by other obstacles.

Really now, how could I feel down when the day began and touched me with such beauty?

The Chicken Stock I had made the other day needed packaged up and put into the, now working again, freezer.

On to the rest of my day ....

"I took a clean tea towel to strain sentiment and fat from the stock.  Look how rich and dark it is, as  I used a bright red onion along with the goodness of other vegetables when making the stock.  Seven containers there were for the freezer.  I can't wait until I need to make up a Homemade Chicken Soup to try it out... yummy."

"It was cold today but not overly for these two youngsters to be out romping together.  Buddy just turned two, and Missy Mercedes 18 months, it is good for them to play and wear themselves out with each other.  Trust me they both sleep very well at night, with not a peep from either of them."

I received mail this day from young Nathan Reynolds-Furry, who had been visiting last month from Yass, Australia.  Nathan does an article for the local newspaper, the Yass Tribune.

"Nathan was kind enough to mail me two articles he had wrote for the paper.  One was on corresponding with another as a Pen pal, touching on my relationship/contact with my friend, John Daley, who is now passed on from this World, and the other was based on his trip to Canada.  Very good Nathan, thank you for sharing with me."

For those who know me, know how much I love Easy Peasy as 1-2-3, with my Slow Cooker being one of my most favourite small appliances.  I first began my love relationship with my slow cooker when I had went back to College for a Computer for Business Course (at least 16 years ago now I would think), when homework was piled high and good meals needed to be easy and good.  The Slow cooker gave me both with a great meal all ready at the end of a long day.

"Dinner could not be made easier then this."

There is never a day I do not have myself some ....

" Puppy Love "

... for at least 5 more weeks !

I would love to welcome my newest follower, this being Kristen of About a Girl, who lives in Winnipeg, Canada.  I have already dropped over at Kristin's blog and know I am going to love following her too, as she loves to take pictures.  I do love picture taking as they tell such wonderful stories, do they not?  Thanks for the follow Kristin !!!

Oh my "Crabby Cabbie" Rob?  he is hard at work trying to chisel a living out of life for us.  I do love him dearly for that.  In-between he did manage to enjoy the wonderful Slow cooked Roast Beef dinner I had made for him.

I think that pretty sums up the day I have had myself, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".

MESS ~ Day 2

Really ? yet another day of not feeling at all ambitious about doing anything.  Again I will blame this on the weather, as it had been another damp, mushy, grey, then foggy day here.  To be quite honest with myself, of late I have been feeling as "blah" as the weather.

"Anyone who knows anything about Fibromyalgia knows how the weather and stress adds up to more discomforts.  If someone doesn't know this, there are facts you can read up on for more education about Fibromyalgia by *clicking* HERE."

When I finally did get myself moving this morning, I headed on downtown to do what I had planned on getting done yesterday.  

First stop was the Foodland Store to pickup some fruit and a Roast.  At $2.97 a pound, you can't go wrong on buying one or two for the Slow Cooker, or to use for Stew Beef, since the price of Stew Beef is $4.99/lb., and that is the SALE Price !

Next stop to the Post Office to get 2 parcels, along with a few cards posted off to their appointed destinations.  Really Valentines Day is only around the corner, and I like my Grandsons to enjoy their cards a bit before the day arrives.  

Next stop was the Bank to make a deposit.  Deposits of any sort seem to be eaten up before the actual transaction, especially when you have been working so hard to get a small business venture up and running off the ground.

The final stop was to drop off a container of Homemade Hamburg soup to my friend.  She always appreciates any and every little thing I drop around to her.  I always appreciate every little thing she is there about for me.  That is what Friendship is all about, if we are so blessed to have such wonderful Friendships.

When I returned back home it was "Checkboard Aussie" duty before I put my purchases away.  I can not believe it was after the Noon hour before I got my bed made today! then going on to folding a load of towels that needed done up and put away.

Taking a bit of a break after attending to some other business on hand, I checked out my emails to find my friend Paul had sent me along some photos from where him and BJ are vacationing in Arizona.

"Paul didn't want us to think just because they were in Arizona that they too weren't getting the "snow" experience.  These photos were taken this morning.  Really though what is a bit of snow when you have that view to gaze out upon every morning?  Thanks Paul !  I love getting your emails and photos.  And "hello" BJ !"

Rob had to come home this afternoon to do a "Crabby Cabbie" vehicle switch.

See where I had been unstuck from yesterday?  Not wanting to go there again, I parked further up the lane way.  See that "Crabby Cabbie" vehicle there ... pretty stuck by the looks of things to me, so there it sits.  Ha ! so much for it only happening to the Woman of the household."

On the one occasion when I was taking everyone out, about and in, I took my camera along when I had Buddy out.

"See that look of innocence?  Trust me he really isn't ... there he goes !  Zoom here, zoom there, zoomed right out of my sight.  By the time I had caught up to him he was around the other side of the house and heading towards the road.  Okay we are back on the lead again ... enough of that "heart failure" feeling with an unruly two year old."

I had absolutely no energy as the day was heading into late afternoon, but I really had to muster up some or I would never get this January Challenge completed by the 31st of January, and we certainly can't have that happening now can we Carla ?

Since I had completed this week's Mini Challenge by cleaning out the fridge already, I had to accomplish what I had outlined for myself this month, again by taking myself into MESS ~ Day 2.

"Down into the basement I went again.  This is the bottom of the stair where a clutter of outer wear and other junk useful things gets left."

"I persevered however difficult with many thoughts of giving up, even ignoring a phone call from my Sister, Donna, to "get 'r done".  And another bagful ready to make an exit out the door and far far away from our house."

To accomplish this month's Challenge I still have one more terrible feat yet to get done ... the "dreaded" downstairs bathroom which Rob has totally destroyed made his.  Wish me luck, as I really really need on that one.

The Low/No Spend Challenge I will also tally up by the 31st....oh man, that is only 2 days away !!!

I tried a new recipe for tonight's supper that I will post tomorrow, as for this moment .... that is all she wrote, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard."

More Of A Better Day Today

Really only 33 Days until Christmas ???  YIKES!!! will I be ready when it arrives?  I sure hope so as it certainly isn't going to wait for me now is it?  I still  have to get everything I have been buying the whole Year through from out of our bedroom closet to do a Gift Inventory pretty soon.  I also need to decide when and what I will be doing in the way of Christmas Baking.

Here I am going on about Christmas with our neighbours to the South of us celebrating their Thanksgiving today.

"Wishing all my Friends and Neighbours to the South a Wonderful Thanksgiving with their Family and Friends."

I am happy to report I finally had a good nights sleep last night with my headaches back to their "normal" dull roar instead of being escalated to heights one never wants them to be at EVER.  

I do not know what made me check back on what I had blogged about last Year, however I do this once in awhile.  Last Year on this day I had blogged about Fibromyalgia, "By Definition ~ The Silent Pain Behind The Smiles" , and since then I have many times I am sure as I believe the more awareness there is brought to something the more understanding can there be gained by it.

I actually was pretty good today by getting the living room dusted and vacuumed, tidying up the kitchen somewhat, doing a 1 Mile Workout with Leslie Sansone and leaving the Bedroom and Bathroom to be done until tomorrow.  Now that is reasonable and back to somewhat pacing myself again (for now).  

I am certain I had mentioned before that a few of us girls, members of Cindy's Recipe Exchange on Facebook, had wanted to exchange Christmas Cards with each other.  I was really happy to have received my first Christmas Card of 2012 today.  

"This beautiful Card arrived for me today from Neyaashiinigmiing, Ontario."

"I had wrote all my Cards and got them in the Mail this past Monday to all the Recipe Exchange gals so I wouldn't forget.  It also broke it up a bit for me to do them separate from the few I send to Family and longtime friends.  I also included a Recipe that I had made myself, along with a  Photo,  just to add a Personal Touch, as they are all such a wonderful fun bunch of people."

"I also received some more Happy Mail, as this Free Sample for Celestial "Sleepytime" Tea arrived with a little matching carrying Tin.  I will have to try it out some night soon to see if it really is "Sleepy Time" or not."

This afternoon I took it pretty easy by checking out a few recipes (what else) on Pinterest when I came across another very simple and lovely Christmas Gift idea.

"How simple does Hot Chocolate and Marshmallows in a Mason Jar with a side Jigger of Baileys Irish Cream get?  Not much simpler ... "

Just thought I would throw that out there for anyone who wants to give a little something to someone, but was stuck for an idea of what to give.  I would be happy if someone gave me such a thoughtful gift.

I also spent some time, but not too much, on my "Crabby Cabbie's" new Facebook page.  I really don't think he has even had time to look at his page yet as he has been busy working Saugeen Shores and Area to do so.  Are you on Facebook?  please drop on over and have a "LIKE" yourself on his page, if he doesn't know I will be sure to tell him you have ...  I Promise!

"Just *click* HERE to like my "Crabby Cabbie" on Facebook, not forgetting "Only the Name is "Crabby" !!! "

I also made time to work on the "Bruce County Small Businesses Reaching Out" group on Facebook.  This is a group I believe could be and will be beneficial to both Bruce County Small Businesses and the Consumer, with it being the "ONE STOP" group on Facebook to locate what is available in Bruce County.

In just the short few days we already have at least 23 Small Businesses listed, as well as 102 Members.  I believe the group is off to a great start with hopefully those numbers building daily with some "key members" putting out the Word along with everyone else !

Should you be a Small Business Owner or Consumer with a Facebook Account?  Drop on in to "CHECK IT OUT" and "SHOUT IT OUT" Bruce County.

"Just by *clicking* HERE will take you to the "Bruce County Small Businesses Reaching Out" group on Facebook."

"Photograph of the Grotto at The Bruce Peninsula National Park"

An awesome photo shared by friend, Paul Guest.  Wow I really do have quite a few awesome and talented friends out there ... thanks, as truly do appreciate each and every one.

I also had a bit of a "chuckle" to myself today when looking out the patio doors to check on our Buddy to see ....

"Would that be Froggie or Doggie's legs going on here ... hahahaha !  He is way to cute and relaxed that boy, soaking up all the Sunshine going on outside our doors today."

Guaranteed I am not having any part of Frog's Legs for a meal, never mind Dog's legs !!! but what I did have for my supper was pretty darn good, if I say so myself.

"As I had me some of my Homemade Spaghetti Sauce and Spaghetti for my Supper.  Yummy it was."

I have been hearing about a few people developing flues and colds the past couple of weeks, so I thought I would share yet another one of my finds from Pinterest for at least the Colds end of it.

I surely don't know about anyone else out there, but if I were to come down with a nasty Cold I would be certainly trying this method of a cure out.  Besides anything else, who doesn't LOVE honey and cinnamon? what would you have to loose?

With is having been "more of a better day today" for me, I am zipping right along here at a not too bad pace this evening, considering I have "paced" myself somewhat more then my normal.  It is only just going onto 7:00 pm, so I have lots of time to take my "Checkerboard Aussies" out for their evening out, round and about walk,  "fire" up the Woodstove, have myself a nice HOT bath and maybe watch myself a wee bit of something on TV tonight, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".

The Collapse Is A Downer

(Taken from a Fibromyalgia Facebook Page)

"It looks like I will be making the bed for a second time, before I get back into it for the third time when I head back to bed tonight."

There are lots of moments inbetween what I do some days that not everyone sees, or what I don't allow people to see, as who wants to hear about the "down times" in a persons life all the time?  Sympathy I do not seek, but what I do appreciate always from my family and friends is simply understanding and caring without judgement placed on something that is far from my choice of being.

Between my degenerative disc disease neck pain, whole body pain from the Fibromyalgia, and headaches, there are days I can't even bare as it catches up with me and wears me down.  Really truly, "the collapse is a downer", which I find rather depressing when it happens more often then naught.

I was up from 3 am, finally going back to bed at 7:30.  Murphy was at my doorstep again as just as I began to drift off before 8 am (I think I emailed the VON SMART gals about 5:00 am to say I wouldn't be at exercise today) when of course the phone rang twice and someone sent me a text.  I gave it another go finally going into a bit of a lull then giving up after another phone call to finally getting up around 10:00 am.

"This was the view outside our Eastern window I seen this morning ... with both frost on the ground and fog seemingly animated by hanging in the air.  Is it not beautiful.  If nothing else today this sight made me feel good."

Other then attending to the needs of our "Checkerboard Aussies" I didn't get much done other then a pot of Beef Soup for my "Crabby Cabbie's" lunches.

"Beef Vegetable Soup that is .... "

After this was made I went back to bed about 1:00 pm.  Who other then my dear Rob called just before I headed off into a slumber, after I had called and told him I was going back to bed.  I did manage to sleep until around 3:00 pm, until AGAIN who else by my ROB called and woke me up again !!!  Jeez how do you not hurt someone when you love them so much ... not easy some days is it?  Ha !

My poor guy was having "Crabby Cabbie" vehicle problems and not such a great day himself.  It started with a flat tire after he had been over working Saugeen Shores for a bit, then after while driving a fare, a Rad hose blew, spewing anti-freeze up over the windshield.  Oh man ... poor guy had to borrow a screwdriver from someone on the street he was on to give it a temporary fix.

He did come back home up to our mechanics to get the spare tire off and put on another permanent one.   We really need to ensure the "safety" of his Customers, as that is a "Number One" priority of the "Crabby Cabbie" !!!

When Rob dropped back home to get a new tire, he had also brought me in the mail, as of course I had still been in bed.

"Happy Mail in the way of a Cupcake Post Card from Postcrossing, a letter from our local OPP (police) detachment acknowledging and thanking me for my letter of appreciation regarding one of their foremost "front line" employees, and an invite to some Christmas Festivities to the Golden Dawn Retirement home where my Mother resides.  Pretty good score in the mail department, with there not being one bill today!"

Oh yes, the Slow Cooker Turkey Dinner we had last night was totally awesome, even though it was rather late by the time we had sat down for it.

"Rob's is the one with the side of coleslaw, and mine with the roasted onions ... yummy."

Recipe please?  FOR A PRINTABLE RECIPE, PLEASE *CLICK* HERE

Can you believe after spending most of my day in bed, which I hate doing no matter how necessary some times, I am still TIRED !!!

Before I "sign off" here, I need to let everyone know how much I care about my Family and Friends, those in my life daily in person or not.  I can NOT stress enough how comforting it is to know when you have friends or family who care ....

"All my Family and Friends who truly care about me and others deserve this Award !  Thank you always for being there for ME !!!"

Speaking of friends, a Facebook Friend of mine posted some info regarding the sending of a Christmas Card to one of our Countryman or woman who is serving on our behalf.  I blogged about this last year, and here it is again this year.  Remember when doing your Christmas Cards to address just one and send it off to the following address:

Any Canadian Forces Member

Op Attention:  Kabul

PO Box 5140 Stn. Forces,

Belleville, Ontario   K8N 5W6

... as you might just make someone else's day a better one by putting a *smile* on their face.  Need to confirm the address at anytime, please do so by *clicking* HERE.

I am off to attend shortly to our "Checkerboard Aussies" to having myself a restful night with hopefully sleeping past the hour of 3:00 am, as I am looking forward to a better day with tomorrow arriving, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".

Behind The Scenes Of A Church Bazaar

Our day got off in its most usual fashion, but with Buddy starting his day off a little bit better then the other three "Checkerboard Aussies",.

"Since the other three had a Homemade Peanut Butter Treat yesterday from Aimee, it was Buddy's turn to have a couple this morning at 6:30 am. before we went  out on our property walkabout.  He did LOVE himself those Peanut Butter treats too.... thanks again, Aimee of Craftmates !"

Today being the VON SMART exercise program in Wiarton, I got all our Aussies looked after, then myself ready and out the door by 9:00 am.  People to see and a workout to be done.  Our VON SMART Guru Coordinator, Dorothy Embacher, was going to be there "checking" all us SMARTIE Volunteers out ... ha, not really as she was just helping with some "new" guests this day.

Should anyone never seen when I have "blogged" about Dorothy before, I can't begin to tell you what a "wonderful" person she is, and way LOTS OF FUN.  You can tell  how much FUN she is when we did our First Aid Course last month ....

"As Dorothy made a "model" First Aid Victim."

"Oops, think I was "caught" pointing my camera again."

Really, truly we all had such a "fun" time together this day in October, and honest to goodness we all did REALLY WELL with the CPR and First Aid Training .... HONEST !!!

After exercise today a few of us gals met up at Timmies for a coffee and a bit of socializing.  This is also nice to get together on more of a personal level.  I had then to rush home to take care of my Aussie dogs before I went to go see a bit of what "Behind the Scenes of a Church Bazaar" looks like ....

One of the ladies of the St. John's Church had invited me to her house this afternoon to check out all the "Flower Power" that has been going on there for the past couple of weeks or so ....

"... by way of the Art of Prodded Hooking, by Gene Shepherd.  The runner to the right was made by this very same lady would had invited me, and displayed on her cabinet.  It is so beautiful ! is it not?"

"I even had a little demonstration on the Art of Prodded Hooking."

"Flower Power there was to be seen in the way of amazing hand bags, hair clips, scarf clips and even flower pins !  Absolutely wonderful ... all of them !  Prices are from $5. $7 & $15.00."

"All proceeds raised at the Christmas Bazaar this Saturday from all these Prodded Hooked Creations will go to The United Church of Canada's "Gifts with Vision"."

I will be attending to this Christmas Bazaar Event with my friend this Saturday as well as this other one going on the same day ...

Mrs. Claus "One Stop Shop"

Looks like every Saturday this month is going to be filling my Calendar with all these Christmas Bazaars going on .... I will be missing out on a couple, as there is just way too many all at once ! and on the same days !

While I was downtown the second time today, after I had stopped in to check out all the Flower Power, I stopped into Saddler's Home Hardware in Wiarton as they had an item on for 1/2 price I wanted for myself.

"This Oster Hand Blender was on for 1/2 price at $10.97 !  With the "W" season fast approaching it will be time for lots of Creamed Soups with this helping to do the "trick" with some of the preparation.  Also I went popping in quickly to the Salvation Army's Thrift Store, I was able to "score" another glass Christmas jar.  Bonus x 2  now!"

"The remainder of my afternoon was spent doing up some packages I want to get into the mail tomorrow.  All done and ready to "roll" for tomorrow."

Once having read my blog post of yesterday, a friend sent me a really great link that I am sharing here.  Thanks Ellen.

This Video and web link gives to further understanding for some of us who need more.  Thanks for taking the time out to "check out" this video and this link (just copy & paste the link into your browser please):

http://www.envita.com/lyme-disease/finally-one-link-established-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-cfs-lupus-fibromyalgia-autoimmune-disease-chronic-lyme-disease/




There is no such thing as "too much" information on something that effects one's self or another you care deeply about, is there?

My "Crabby Cabbie" brought me home some books last night that a friend was giving away, so I was quite happy to take them off her hands.  Thanks Sheila !

"A Better Homes "Limited Edition" 75th Anniversary Cookbook (really I needed another Cookbook), and the "Fifty Shades of Grey" Trilogy , which I  have heard both bad and good reviews about.  I will see so myself, hopefully getting to them in the New Year."

For those who "missed" my post of Yesterday, check out my Give Away HERE.  There are 8 entries to date, and would love if YOU were to also enter for a "chance to win".

Once again darkness has swept over the day bringing it to the hour of just after 8 pm.  I am off to tend to my "pack", and hopefully have myself a wee bit of relaxation all to myself before I call it a night, "Just North of Wiarton & South of the Checkerboard".