No post yesterday, partly because I could not think of anything to say and partly because I was watching the sky. We had our warmest day so far this year, with temperatures near 31C (I think that's about 80F). With all the rain we've been havinging the humidity was high and the conditions perfect for a storm. A local website tracks the storms throughout the summer so I kept the browser open so I could keep an eye on the storm as it approached the city.
When it was about 40 kilometers out I moved out to my sunroom. I opened all the curtains and curled up in my recliner to watch. It took about 15 minutes before it the sky really started to light up. Both D & C joined me and for the next half hour we enjoyed the fireworks that only Mother Nature can deliver! Some of the flashes lit up the sky so brightly that a 10:15 p.m. it looked like broad daylight. The wind picked up and the rain started, first just a drizzle and then a downpour. The temperature dropped several degrees in just a few minutes. D left to go to bed while C and I sat and chatted.
He had applied for two job opportunities on Monday and got interviews for both. He decided quickly that the first opportunity wasn't for him. The second interview led to physical and drug testing yesterday and today....he got the call that he was the successful candidate. He starts to work on Monday. Mom's worries were for naught; he found a new job in just a few days. We've had the conversation about diplomacy and tact - hopefully those words will be heeded. On a side note, C told me today he had a text message from a man he worked with at the last job, and he had walked out today no longer able to tolerate the conditions. He told C there have been 22 different workers who have left this employer, either by choice or request, in the past two years. Perhaps C's impatience was a blessing in disquise. He's out of that environment and hopefully on to a better opportunity. A Mom can always hope!
Thursday, 30 June 2011
Tuesday, 28 June 2011
Heartache and tears
Today Constable Garret Styles died when the 15 year old unlicensed driver was pulled over in a routine traffic stop. The driver attempted to flee, dragging the officer Garret nearly 300 meters before the vehicle flipped trapping the officer underneath. Amazingly Garret called in for assistance, advising the dispatcher that he had a vehicle on top of him, and expressing his concern for welfare of the four people in the van.
Garret would have been 33 years old this Sunday and leaves behind his wife Melissa, a daughter aged 2 1/2 years, and a son aged 9 weeks. My heartaches for this little family tonight.
An event like this angers me. A stupid mistake by the underage driver has cost a man his life, a family their husband and father, and a community a dedicated police officer. The driver is currently in hospital with significant head injuries and may be paralyzed. He will face reprecussions for his actions whether through the justice of the courts or karma. The three passengers in the vehicle walked away unhurt. While they may have no outward signs of injury I expect they will never forget their part in this tragedy.
The ripple effect of this child's error in judgement extends beyond the immediate families, friends and fellow officers. Every family member of a police officer in this country is realizing once again how quickly and easily death or serious injury could happen to their loved one. I am so grateful for all the men and women who put their lives on the line everyday to ensure our safety. My brother R is one of those brave officers; this event reminds me of how much he means to our family.
RIP Garret Styles.
Garret would have been 33 years old this Sunday and leaves behind his wife Melissa, a daughter aged 2 1/2 years, and a son aged 9 weeks. My heartaches for this little family tonight.
An event like this angers me. A stupid mistake by the underage driver has cost a man his life, a family their husband and father, and a community a dedicated police officer. The driver is currently in hospital with significant head injuries and may be paralyzed. He will face reprecussions for his actions whether through the justice of the courts or karma. The three passengers in the vehicle walked away unhurt. While they may have no outward signs of injury I expect they will never forget their part in this tragedy.
The ripple effect of this child's error in judgement extends beyond the immediate families, friends and fellow officers. Every family member of a police officer in this country is realizing once again how quickly and easily death or serious injury could happen to their loved one. I am so grateful for all the men and women who put their lives on the line everyday to ensure our safety. My brother R is one of those brave officers; this event reminds me of how much he means to our family.
RIP Garret Styles.
Monday, 27 June 2011
Thinking ahead
A good friend and I went on a cruise last winter with Princess Cruise lines. It was fantastic and I'd recommend a cruise to anyone. I was nervous about sea sickness but except for a couple of "bounces" I never felt truly ill. And, I jumped right in the deep end as our cruise was 14 days. Good thing I didn't get sick.
Now, we're considering where we might go this winter. It is a little difficult because she is extremely well-travelled. In the past 20 years she's travelled to nearly 40 different countries! Finding a place she hasn't been and one I'm willing to travel to is a little difficult.
We've decided to go back to the Caribbean. I've been fortunate enough to have travelled to a number of places over that past 7 years or so, but there are still lots of islands and countries left for me to check out. We're both looking for a great place with a beach, probably an all-inclusive and at least a 3.5 star resort. I'd rather get a 4+ but she's more willing to stay somewhere less "posh" than I am.
Some of the possiblities (as of now) include St. Lucia, Panama, Trinidad, or Bahamas. Half the fun for me is researching travel sites on the web, looking for deals, and checking traveller reviews. We know we would prefer to go in late January, early February 2012 but in reality I think we'll look for a great last minute deal. I have to say that is a benefit of where we work. We could book on a Friday and leave the following Wednesday and no one would truly blink an eye.
I just have to remember to renew my passport before we book anything!
Here's a couple of pictures from last year's cruise - enjoy!
This is Kathy and I in Curacao - the second island stop. I loved it and would go back in a heart beat! Note Kathy's broken arm; she'd been thrown from her bicycle while travelling in Cuba just two weeks before we left!
St. John's Anglican Church in St. Kitt's - this picture was taken from the upper level of a train travelling on narrow gauge rail. The excursion was so much fun and the views from the train were truly incredible.
Now, we're considering where we might go this winter. It is a little difficult because she is extremely well-travelled. In the past 20 years she's travelled to nearly 40 different countries! Finding a place she hasn't been and one I'm willing to travel to is a little difficult.
We've decided to go back to the Caribbean. I've been fortunate enough to have travelled to a number of places over that past 7 years or so, but there are still lots of islands and countries left for me to check out. We're both looking for a great place with a beach, probably an all-inclusive and at least a 3.5 star resort. I'd rather get a 4+ but she's more willing to stay somewhere less "posh" than I am.
Some of the possiblities (as of now) include St. Lucia, Panama, Trinidad, or Bahamas. Half the fun for me is researching travel sites on the web, looking for deals, and checking traveller reviews. We know we would prefer to go in late January, early February 2012 but in reality I think we'll look for a great last minute deal. I have to say that is a benefit of where we work. We could book on a Friday and leave the following Wednesday and no one would truly blink an eye.
I just have to remember to renew my passport before we book anything!
Here's a couple of pictures from last year's cruise - enjoy!
This is Kathy and I in Curacao - the second island stop. I loved it and would go back in a heart beat! Note Kathy's broken arm; she'd been thrown from her bicycle while travelling in Cuba just two weeks before we left!
Sunday, 26 June 2011
Busy Sunday
Housecleaning day! Does that sound exciting? It sure isn't for me because I hate housecleaning. Not the I'll procrastinate and get to it later kind of dislike but the I HATE cleaning so much I'd rather go to the dentist! I think is it because I'm not good at it, no matter how much I clean my house never looks like one of those magazine photos. Plus I tend to make a bigger mess than what existed, before things come together. And it doesn't matter how often I do it, I have to do it again and again and again!!!
Today wasn't like that; I was able to get organized without thinking much about it. I moved from room to room without carrying mounds of things with me so I guess the clutter wasn't too bad. I vacuumed the entire house (there's a chore that makes this house seem big), washed the floors in the kitchen, the laundry room, and the furnace room (where I keep the cat litter boxes). I did three loads of laundry, cleaned my bathroom, and wiped down surfaces all through the house. And gasp, I even made dinner for the three of us tonight!
My house certainly doesn't look like a magazine shoot...with a cat who loves to scratch at the furniture, most of which looks early university chic, I'll never have that kind of look. It's sort of like the rest of my life; I'll never be classy nor elegant but being homey and comfortable are good enough for me.
Funnily enough the one chore I don't mind is cleaning the cat litter boxes - is that sick or what?
Today wasn't like that; I was able to get organized without thinking much about it. I moved from room to room without carrying mounds of things with me so I guess the clutter wasn't too bad. I vacuumed the entire house (there's a chore that makes this house seem big), washed the floors in the kitchen, the laundry room, and the furnace room (where I keep the cat litter boxes). I did three loads of laundry, cleaned my bathroom, and wiped down surfaces all through the house. And gasp, I even made dinner for the three of us tonight!
My house certainly doesn't look like a magazine shoot...with a cat who loves to scratch at the furniture, most of which looks early university chic, I'll never have that kind of look. It's sort of like the rest of my life; I'll never be classy nor elegant but being homey and comfortable are good enough for me.
Funnily enough the one chore I don't mind is cleaning the cat litter boxes - is that sick or what?
Saturday, 25 June 2011
Relaxing day
Although the cats weren't happy, I managed to stay in bed until 8 a.m., they just had to wait for breakfast. After getting them fed and watered, getting dressed and ready for the day, I headed out the door to drive the farm. As I was leaving I remembered I had to get the nuts on the tires torqued...because I finally got around to having the winter tires switched out on the car a couple of weeks ago.
I stopped at Kal Tire to get it done, it just took a couple of minutes, and then headed for the highway. Then I realized I needed to get fuel because if I didn't I probably wouldn't make back from the farm! After fueling up and grabbing a coffee it was off the farm I went. Part way there I realized I'd forgotten DeNephew's jacket and my camera but at this point I decided I'd just keep going!
The reason for this trip was the piano recital of DeNiece and DeNephew. They've been taking lessons since last fall and today was their last lesson. Their teacher drives out each week (as long as the weather permits); he's a university student who has done an awesome job with these two children. First we had brunch, then the recital, and after that dessert. It was good morning!
I headed back into the city, planning to go home and do housework. The shopping center, however, got in the way. I found the coolest pair of dress sandals at the Shoe Warehouse on sale for $39.99! I love shoes (and purses) because no matter how fat I get they still fit.
Leaving the shoe store I headed over to Reitmans to get a new pair of jeans. I seem to have a lost a little weight as my old jeans are getting too big. I can't see when I look in the mirror but my dress pants are too big too. I think it's the extra activity from yard work that is making the difference.
Tonight I'm relaxing - tomorrow is soon enough to do housework. Life is good!
I stopped at Kal Tire to get it done, it just took a couple of minutes, and then headed for the highway. Then I realized I needed to get fuel because if I didn't I probably wouldn't make back from the farm! After fueling up and grabbing a coffee it was off the farm I went. Part way there I realized I'd forgotten DeNephew's jacket and my camera but at this point I decided I'd just keep going!
The reason for this trip was the piano recital of DeNiece and DeNephew. They've been taking lessons since last fall and today was their last lesson. Their teacher drives out each week (as long as the weather permits); he's a university student who has done an awesome job with these two children. First we had brunch, then the recital, and after that dessert. It was good morning!
I headed back into the city, planning to go home and do housework. The shopping center, however, got in the way. I found the coolest pair of dress sandals at the Shoe Warehouse on sale for $39.99! I love shoes (and purses) because no matter how fat I get they still fit.
Leaving the shoe store I headed over to Reitmans to get a new pair of jeans. I seem to have a lost a little weight as my old jeans are getting too big. I can't see when I look in the mirror but my dress pants are too big too. I think it's the extra activity from yard work that is making the difference.
Tonight I'm relaxing - tomorrow is soon enough to do housework. Life is good!
Friday, 24 June 2011
Late night musings
You would think I'd be able to sleep, since I got so little sleep last night. Between hot flashes and humidity I found myself staring at the clock for a lot of the night. Everytime I moved the cats decided it must be morning. They, of course, didn't have to work today so my guess is they slept most of the day away.
But again I'm sitting here, over-heated and worried. Not worried about my hot flashes but about my son C. Today he was "let go" from his job; although they wouldn't use the words "you're fired" it truly means the same thing. He is almost 24 years old and has not held a job longer than a year at a time. I think this job lasted about 6-8 weeks before he took exception to the way he was being treated. While I agree he was being treated unfairly, he handled his frustration inappropriately and let the boss know in less than a tactful way. They kept him on until today (Friday) and then told him he was done.
It's difficult to think how he will manage, his resume has holes in it, and he's burned another bridge so won't get a good reference. He's really smart and has a really good grasp of his chosen work, but he has no education beyond his Grade 12 so his opportunities are few, and those are getting less each time he leaves another job.
Perhaps it's time for another talk about the importance of education and diplomacy. However, as I thought at his age, he knows more than his mother; my words of wisdom will likely fall on deaf ears!
But again I'm sitting here, over-heated and worried. Not worried about my hot flashes but about my son C. Today he was "let go" from his job; although they wouldn't use the words "you're fired" it truly means the same thing. He is almost 24 years old and has not held a job longer than a year at a time. I think this job lasted about 6-8 weeks before he took exception to the way he was being treated. While I agree he was being treated unfairly, he handled his frustration inappropriately and let the boss know in less than a tactful way. They kept him on until today (Friday) and then told him he was done.
It's difficult to think how he will manage, his resume has holes in it, and he's burned another bridge so won't get a good reference. He's really smart and has a really good grasp of his chosen work, but he has no education beyond his Grade 12 so his opportunities are few, and those are getting less each time he leaves another job.
Perhaps it's time for another talk about the importance of education and diplomacy. However, as I thought at his age, he knows more than his mother; my words of wisdom will likely fall on deaf ears!
Thursday, 23 June 2011
Carry me away
Okay my post was lame yesterday, but I really wanted to watch the game. Bad idea, our quarterback looked like a rookie, our kicker(s) looked lost, and the defence couldn't hold back a kindergarten class. Yikes, after making it to the Grey Cup last year they sure looked out of sorts last night. At least it was pre-season and doesn't count!
We finally got some sunshine today and a really temperature of 25C (about 78F). The lawn was dry enough to mow with my electric mower - good thing or I'd have to buy a goat! The only negative is that with the rain and now the heat comes.....MOSQUITOS. Big mosquitos, hungry mosquitos, swarms and swarms of mosquitos all thirsting for one thing...ME!
Now, I'm usually one of those fortunate people who would rarely get bitten. (I must not taste very good!) If there is anyone else within 100 feet I'm usually safe. But this year there's just too many of the blood suckers; they will even take me on. I learned quickly when you kill one, a hundred more show up for the funeral. Every step I took another cloud came out the grass and swirled around me looking for open spot to land. I don't think I've ever mowed the lawn as quickly as I did this evening.
It reminds me of a practical joke we once played on a visitor from the Phillipines. We showed him a dragonfly
and told him it was a really large mosquito... the poor guy ran every time he saw a dragonfly. It wasn't nice but it was funny!
We finally got some sunshine today and a really temperature of 25C (about 78F). The lawn was dry enough to mow with my electric mower - good thing or I'd have to buy a goat! The only negative is that with the rain and now the heat comes.....MOSQUITOS. Big mosquitos, hungry mosquitos, swarms and swarms of mosquitos all thirsting for one thing...ME!
Now, I'm usually one of those fortunate people who would rarely get bitten. (I must not taste very good!) If there is anyone else within 100 feet I'm usually safe. But this year there's just too many of the blood suckers; they will even take me on. I learned quickly when you kill one, a hundred more show up for the funeral. Every step I took another cloud came out the grass and swirled around me looking for open spot to land. I don't think I've ever mowed the lawn as quickly as I did this evening.
It reminds me of a practical joke we once played on a visitor from the Phillipines. We showed him a dragonfly
and told him it was a really large mosquito... the poor guy ran every time he saw a dragonfly. It wasn't nice but it was funny!
Wednesday, 22 June 2011
Tuesday, 21 June 2011
Reality Bites
Has anyone else noticed how many reality shows there are on television these days? It's probably a symptom of having far too many channels to choose from added to my couch potato tendencies. In any event there a lot of these shows!
Let's see - American Idol wrapped up not long ago, now there is "the Voice", and the ever popular "America's Got Talent" looking for the next big act. Both the US and Canada are looking for their best dancer on "Do You Think You Can Dance" following on the heels of "Dancing with the Stars". In addition, there's a number of "Top Model" from America, Canada, Australia and Britain, most in re-runs. There's something delicious (and so high school) about watching skinny girls get b*tchy with each other!
Finally there are thedesperate losers lonely hearts looking for love in all the wrong places shows. I refuse to watch these programs (just too annoying) but I can't help being aware that they're on because I faithfully read a weekly rag magazine that dishes the dirt on all the pretty people. While I can understand the desire for love and companionship, what I can't understand is the need (or is it greed?) to play out their emotions in front of a huge television audience.
My fave starts in a couple of weeks..."Big Brother". I think it's the scheming, back stabbing, bad mouthing, and the fake friendships and show-mances that make me laugh out loud. To me, the show is a microcosm of human nature played out on my television screen in a few short weeks. Sometimes the show even reminds me of the office I work in!
Let's see - American Idol wrapped up not long ago, now there is "the Voice", and the ever popular "America's Got Talent" looking for the next big act. Both the US and Canada are looking for their best dancer on "Do You Think You Can Dance" following on the heels of "Dancing with the Stars". In addition, there's a number of "Top Model" from America, Canada, Australia and Britain, most in re-runs. There's something delicious (and so high school) about watching skinny girls get b*tchy with each other!
Finally there are the
My fave starts in a couple of weeks..."Big Brother". I think it's the scheming, back stabbing, bad mouthing, and the fake friendships and show-mances that make me laugh out loud. To me, the show is a microcosm of human nature played out on my television screen in a few short weeks. Sometimes the show even reminds me of the office I work in!
Monday, 20 June 2011
Sun, sun, golden drop of sun
This is the reason I bought the house I live in...it's a three season sunroom! AND check it out, the sun is actually shining.
Unfortunately this won't last much longer, as we're forecast for more rain tonight. The flooding in the province has gotten worse, last night 400 people were evacuated in a small town just an hour away and one small village is currently submerged in a lake with water levels of nearly 12 feet. This has been a year of unprecedented flooding and unless the hot, dry summer that was forecast arrives soon it's only going to get worse.
My heart aches for those who have displaced from their homes and lives. While there has been no loss of life and material items can be replaced, the loss of their "normal" life must be difficult. I have no doubt however, that those impacted will find support and assistance from their neighbours and friends, and this disaster will be overcome.
Unfortunately this won't last much longer, as we're forecast for more rain tonight. The flooding in the province has gotten worse, last night 400 people were evacuated in a small town just an hour away and one small village is currently submerged in a lake with water levels of nearly 12 feet. This has been a year of unprecedented flooding and unless the hot, dry summer that was forecast arrives soon it's only going to get worse.
My heart aches for those who have displaced from their homes and lives. While there has been no loss of life and material items can be replaced, the loss of their "normal" life must be difficult. I have no doubt however, that those impacted will find support and assistance from their neighbours and friends, and this disaster will be overcome.
Sunday, 19 June 2011
Happy Father's Day
Dear Dad,
I hope you're enjoying your day in Heaven! I want to let you know that you're missed here, your ever present smile and grateful attitude are never forgotten.
Your grandchildren are getting older, C will be 24 this fall and D will be 30 in December. They are both living with me again; I even bought a bigger house for us last year. I sure wish you could have been able to visit us here, I know you would have been so proud of how far we've come.
R & P's children, K & L are always growing up. "The girl" as you called L turned 8 in January and is a lot of fun. She's going to give her parents trouble when she grows up! K is 10 now, going on 11 and he is still a talkative kid. He loves to do whatever his Dad is doing, whether it's fishing, hunting, or fixing something.
I know you'll be sad to know that I've not had much contact with sister K and brother M since your funeral. K and I simply don't speak, while M and I remain Facebook friends but little else. Our lives have grown apart since we no longer have you and Mom. I'm not sure how to overcome this statemate, perhaps in time we'll be able to get together again.
I'm doing well, as are the kitties. Silas hasn't been well, but seems to have stabilized. Today we enjoyed sitting in our sunroom until the clouds rolled in again.
Love you Dad, I know I'll see you again someday.
Eileen
I hope you're enjoying your day in Heaven! I want to let you know that you're missed here, your ever present smile and grateful attitude are never forgotten.
Your grandchildren are getting older, C will be 24 this fall and D will be 30 in December. They are both living with me again; I even bought a bigger house for us last year. I sure wish you could have been able to visit us here, I know you would have been so proud of how far we've come.
R & P's children, K & L are always growing up. "The girl" as you called L turned 8 in January and is a lot of fun. She's going to give her parents trouble when she grows up! K is 10 now, going on 11 and he is still a talkative kid. He loves to do whatever his Dad is doing, whether it's fishing, hunting, or fixing something.
I know you'll be sad to know that I've not had much contact with sister K and brother M since your funeral. K and I simply don't speak, while M and I remain Facebook friends but little else. Our lives have grown apart since we no longer have you and Mom. I'm not sure how to overcome this statemate, perhaps in time we'll be able to get together again.
I'm doing well, as are the kitties. Silas hasn't been well, but seems to have stabilized. Today we enjoyed sitting in our sunroom until the clouds rolled in again.
Love you Dad, I know I'll see you again someday.
Eileen
Saturday, 18 June 2011
Rain, rain, go away
In the past 24 hours, we've gotten about 45 mm. of rain (about 1 3/4"), with lots of wind accompanying it. The sun briefly shone last evening and again this afternoon. I finally out to the front bed to weed but it started again!
I managed to get a few photos of the containers. The plants have been in the pots for a little over 3 weeks but with very little heat their growth has been stunted. The forecast is looking better for this week though!
One of several window boxes that won't fit on my new deck's railings. Oh well it is still pretty.
I'm finally having luck with mimumlus, here they are in with the dahlia and gazinnia (not sure that's right but it's I call them)
By the shed, my gazing ball and oste(somethings)with vines and petunias.
A view of the lower level of the deck. I love summer, especially when the flowers are in bloom. It's such a contrast to our winter view. I tried to upload just one more picture with all the snow but apparently I'll reached my limit!
I managed to get a few photos of the containers. The plants have been in the pots for a little over 3 weeks but with very little heat their growth has been stunted. The forecast is looking better for this week though!
One of several window boxes that won't fit on my new deck's railings. Oh well it is still pretty.
I'm finally having luck with mimumlus, here they are in with the dahlia and gazinnia (not sure that's right but it's I call them)
By the shed, my gazing ball and oste(somethings)with vines and petunias.
A view of the lower level of the deck. I love summer, especially when the flowers are in bloom. It's such a contrast to our winter view. I tried to upload just one more picture with all the snow but apparently I'll reached my limit!
Friday, 17 June 2011
'Nuf said
I had planned to do some weeding in my one and only flower bed today (before the neighbours decide I'm totally negligent).
This is, however, the view through my front window.
Obviously it's going to have to wait! Guess I'll have to do housework instead. :<)
This is, however, the view through my front window.
Obviously it's going to have to wait! Guess I'll have to do housework instead. :<)
Thursday, 16 June 2011
Here we go again
We had a very snowy winter, it lasted well into early May, and our temperatures never really moderated until that first few days of June. Despite the weather, I put out my bedding plants on the long May weekend as I have for the past few years. When I first started gardening I tried to push it even earlier than that and got away with it once or twice. Too often though I ended up losing a number of plants and having to replace them.
Last July we moved to this new home (I'll post a picture shortly). My old home was smaller but had a fairly large yard. This new place has a very small yard in comparison, especially in the back due the installation of the 16X16 sunroom and a two tiered deck off it. In addition there is lovely shed in the backyard. There is no room for a garden or flower beds so I'm left to container gardening. Well, to make a short story longer, I didn't calculate how many plants I'd need for my new "garden" but went ahead and purchased a similar amount as I would at the old house.
I had several beds at this little house, a large one in front and a smaller hosta bed to the left with a wonderful jackmani clematis. In the back yard I kept eliminating grass and had five beds with various microclimates. At the lower right of the picture was the newest bed where a cottoneaster hedge had been removed. Unfortunately I never got much growing there.
In any event, I bought too many plants and now have numerous containers brimming full. I had intended to post pictures but...it's raining again! In fact, we've got a rainfall warning. So I'll pictures from last year's garden at the old house instead and wait for a sunny day!
Not a particularly good picture but this is the front flower bed.
I'd post more photos but blogger isn't allowing me too. :>(
Last July we moved to this new home (I'll post a picture shortly). My old home was smaller but had a fairly large yard. This new place has a very small yard in comparison, especially in the back due the installation of the 16X16 sunroom and a two tiered deck off it. In addition there is lovely shed in the backyard. There is no room for a garden or flower beds so I'm left to container gardening. Well, to make a short story longer, I didn't calculate how many plants I'd need for my new "garden" but went ahead and purchased a similar amount as I would at the old house.
I had several beds at this little house, a large one in front and a smaller hosta bed to the left with a wonderful jackmani clematis. In the back yard I kept eliminating grass and had five beds with various microclimates. At the lower right of the picture was the newest bed where a cottoneaster hedge had been removed. Unfortunately I never got much growing there.
In any event, I bought too many plants and now have numerous containers brimming full. I had intended to post pictures but...it's raining again! In fact, we've got a rainfall warning. So I'll pictures from last year's garden at the old house instead and wait for a sunny day!
I'd post more photos but blogger isn't allowing me too. :>(
Wednesday, 15 June 2011
Something's got to give
We have a beautiful day today, 24C (I think that's about 75F), the sun is shining, birds are singing, .my grass desperately needed mowing...AND... the Stanley Cup final (hockey) is on tonight.
Does that not seem beyond ridiculous to anyone else but me? It's a winter sport and no one can tell me it's winter. We waited a long time for spring to arrive but it's definitely here and even though summer doesn't officially arrive until next week Mother Nature is allowing us some early enjoyment.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoy hockey. I was born and raised in a small town where most activities revolved around the rink in winter whether it was curling or hockey or ringette. In fact when I was really young I used to think I was born in a curling rink because my parents spent so much time there.
But this late in the year, and they start earlier every year with exhibition games played in September. The "good old hockey game" has extended into baseball season and starts before football season ends. It's nuts - something's got to give!
Never heard the song - check it out here:
www.wtv-zone.com/phyrst/audio/nfld/08/hockey.htm
Does that not seem beyond ridiculous to anyone else but me? It's a winter sport and no one can tell me it's winter. We waited a long time for spring to arrive but it's definitely here and even though summer doesn't officially arrive until next week Mother Nature is allowing us some early enjoyment.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoy hockey. I was born and raised in a small town where most activities revolved around the rink in winter whether it was curling or hockey or ringette. In fact when I was really young I used to think I was born in a curling rink because my parents spent so much time there.
But this late in the year, and they start earlier every year with exhibition games played in September. The "good old hockey game" has extended into baseball season and starts before football season ends. It's nuts - something's got to give!
Never heard the song - check it out here:
www.wtv-zone.com/phyrst/audio/nfld/08/hockey.htm
Tuesday, 14 June 2011
Job action and strikes galore
I realized today that there is a lot of activity on the strike front, here in the province of Saskatchewan as well as across the country. Today both HSAS (health service workers) and CUPW (postal workers) are out on rotating strikes. The STF (Sask Teacher's Federation) has undertaken job action earlier this month though are currently back at the bargaining table. And of course, Air Canada service agents are on strike but it appears the federal government will legislate them back to work. I'm not sure how they can be considered essential services but that's a rant for another day!
Personally, these actions concern me as the contract I work under is up for renegotiation in December of this year. These actions don't bode well for our contract negotiations. While I'm better off than some, with a little savings, it wouldn't take much time away from work to wipe that out. And yet, I'm not prepared to settle for 1.25, 1.25 and 1% as we did in our last contract. Although I feel I'm paid a fair wage for the work I do, the fact is the cost of living increases erode my purchasing power each time we settle for small economic increases.
As a citizen, I realize that for most of the country we've recently come through a recession. Here in Saskatchewan that's not the case. We saw an increase due to mineral exploration, both oil & gas and potash. We've also seen house prices skyrocket in 2008 and 2009. I sold my house in 2010 for nearly 3 times what I paid for it in 2000 (of course the house I bought was significantly more than what it would have cost 10 years earlier as well - with the huge mortgage that goes with it!). Gasoline prices are up over $1.25 a litre and this in a province where gas is produced.
There are individuals who say we should be satisfied with simply having a job. I'd ask them to consider if they are willing to work at a McJob and if not, why not? I would suspect they would say that the wages are not sufficient. Obviously money does matter, and when you have a university degree and professional designation there is an expectation that your wages would reflect the efforts that have gone to those achievements.
Unfortunately I expect little from our upcoming negotiations. Our employer, the federal government has already said it will cut spending. Although the politicians suggest the cuts can be made by attrition, the fact is, those who are eligible are not leaving when expected. In our office alone we have 27 eligible retirees, many of whom have been eligible for at least two years. The downturn impacted their retirement savings and as a result, they're staying on in order to recoup some of those losses. Something has to give...I'm frightened to think what it might be.
The only people with job security that I'm aware of, are the Queen and the Pope. And I suspect even they could be removed if necessary.
Personally, these actions concern me as the contract I work under is up for renegotiation in December of this year. These actions don't bode well for our contract negotiations. While I'm better off than some, with a little savings, it wouldn't take much time away from work to wipe that out. And yet, I'm not prepared to settle for 1.25, 1.25 and 1% as we did in our last contract. Although I feel I'm paid a fair wage for the work I do, the fact is the cost of living increases erode my purchasing power each time we settle for small economic increases.
As a citizen, I realize that for most of the country we've recently come through a recession. Here in Saskatchewan that's not the case. We saw an increase due to mineral exploration, both oil & gas and potash. We've also seen house prices skyrocket in 2008 and 2009. I sold my house in 2010 for nearly 3 times what I paid for it in 2000 (of course the house I bought was significantly more than what it would have cost 10 years earlier as well - with the huge mortgage that goes with it!). Gasoline prices are up over $1.25 a litre and this in a province where gas is produced.
There are individuals who say we should be satisfied with simply having a job. I'd ask them to consider if they are willing to work at a McJob and if not, why not? I would suspect they would say that the wages are not sufficient. Obviously money does matter, and when you have a university degree and professional designation there is an expectation that your wages would reflect the efforts that have gone to those achievements.
Unfortunately I expect little from our upcoming negotiations. Our employer, the federal government has already said it will cut spending. Although the politicians suggest the cuts can be made by attrition, the fact is, those who are eligible are not leaving when expected. In our office alone we have 27 eligible retirees, many of whom have been eligible for at least two years. The downturn impacted their retirement savings and as a result, they're staying on in order to recoup some of those losses. Something has to give...I'm frightened to think what it might be.
The only people with job security that I'm aware of, are the Queen and the Pope. And I suspect even they could be removed if necessary.
Monday, 13 June 2011
No work for me today
Woke up this morning feeling like crap (probably not the most appropriate description but really it's how I felt). I called in sick, fed the cats, grabbed some more meds - Buckley Complete Cold and Flu and a couple of Advil - then crawled back into bed for a couple of hours. When I woke up I felt no better so off I trundled to the doctor's office. As a walk-in I had not too long of a wait, less than hour, before I was in the exam room. The doc came in, listened to my complaints, checked my ears, throat and chest, and then informed me whatever I had was viral so I should go home, rest, drink plenty of fluids, and continue taking the meds. He figures a week to 10 days and I'll be back to normal. WELL JUST FREAKING GREAT! I wanted drugs, something that would make me feel better in 24 hours. I don't want to be sick, I don't like to be sick, I hate being sick! Okay I'll stop ranting now.
Slept most of the afternoon away until the thunderstorm started. I managed to climb out of bed and sit in the sun room watching the rain and relaxing. Best part of my day for certain.
I've always loved thunderstorms probably because of my Mom. When we were little she would take us outdoors onto the porch and we would sit on lawn chairs and watch the storms. Unless, of course, the rain was driving in on us. One of my memories as a child was turning off the television and the lights in the house to watch the light show going on outside. I still think a thunderstorm is more fun to watch than fireworks! Perhaps I'd change my mind if I were close to a strike, but the awesome power of Mother Nature is so incredible to watch.
If only I had the same power over this silly virus!
Slept most of the afternoon away until the thunderstorm started. I managed to climb out of bed and sit in the sun room watching the rain and relaxing. Best part of my day for certain.
I've always loved thunderstorms probably because of my Mom. When we were little she would take us outdoors onto the porch and we would sit on lawn chairs and watch the storms. Unless, of course, the rain was driving in on us. One of my memories as a child was turning off the television and the lights in the house to watch the light show going on outside. I still think a thunderstorm is more fun to watch than fireworks! Perhaps I'd change my mind if I were close to a strike, but the awesome power of Mother Nature is so incredible to watch.
If only I had the same power over this silly virus!
Sunday, 12 June 2011
Feeling ill and union business
I'm not a good patient, in fact, my tendencies tend toward impatient. I don't like feeling unwell and take as a personal failing that I can't stave off a cold. My usual reaction is to feeling unwell is go to bed until I feel better. That works when it's the weekend, like today, but not so great it's a work day. Then I struggle because although I do have sick time credits I can use, the sense of responsibility I feel inside suggests that I must go to work. And then on the opposing side, it may be best to stay home to so I don't infect others I work with. This all started with a sore throat on Friday, which I put off to breathing in paint fumes and cleaning product smells for most of the day. By yesterday evening though my ears were plugged and by morning my nose was dripping (sorry for that picture!). I've been taking cough remedies, drinking plenty of fluids and resting most of the day. Whether I go to work tomorrow or not depends on how I feel in the morning.
Paid sick leave is not universal and there are rumors swirling in the federal public service that the employer (Treasury Board) is working to eliminate at least a portion of these benefits. Currently, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers is on strike and in addition to monetary issues, I've been told the erosion of sick leave provisions is also a concern. I've never taken sick leave for granted, having working in the private sector for many years, but I do work with a number of people who use every hour they can. Is this abuse? Perhaps it is but more than that I feel those people do themselves a disservice. I've always viewed my sick leave credits as a form of insurance. I know that should I become seriously ill, I'll have sufficient credits to carry me through until I am eligible for disability.
In any event, I'm worried about what may be coming in our next round of bargaining if the rumors are true. As public servants we get little support from the private sector. It appears the impression is that collectively we are overpaid and underworked. While I have some sympathy for this belief as there are days I feel I'm not very productive, the reality is that the benefits enjoyed in the private sector were generally won through union negotiations and were transferred to the private sector. For every step backwards the unions take I anticipate a similar step will occur in the private companies as well.
Time will only tell how this will play out. And I'll be over my cold by then!
Paid sick leave is not universal and there are rumors swirling in the federal public service that the employer (Treasury Board) is working to eliminate at least a portion of these benefits. Currently, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers is on strike and in addition to monetary issues, I've been told the erosion of sick leave provisions is also a concern. I've never taken sick leave for granted, having working in the private sector for many years, but I do work with a number of people who use every hour they can. Is this abuse? Perhaps it is but more than that I feel those people do themselves a disservice. I've always viewed my sick leave credits as a form of insurance. I know that should I become seriously ill, I'll have sufficient credits to carry me through until I am eligible for disability.
In any event, I'm worried about what may be coming in our next round of bargaining if the rumors are true. As public servants we get little support from the private sector. It appears the impression is that collectively we are overpaid and underworked. While I have some sympathy for this belief as there are days I feel I'm not very productive, the reality is that the benefits enjoyed in the private sector were generally won through union negotiations and were transferred to the private sector. For every step backwards the unions take I anticipate a similar step will occur in the private companies as well.
Time will only tell how this will play out. And I'll be over my cold by then!
Saturday, 11 June 2011
Silas - an update
We went back to the vet again today to check on Silas' progress since he's been on prednisone and the new diet. My home scale is pretty accurate since it and the vet's office scale show he is down about 1/10 of the kilogram since his last visit a week ago. This is way better than the last time when he lost nearly a half a kilogram in two weeks. The diet/meds seem to be allowing his weight to stabilize which is good. Unfortunately, however he simply isn't strong enough to withstand an operation, and Dr. Soucy thinks the cancer is spreading throughout his body. We decided that being at home to spend what quality time he has left with us is the best option.
As sad as that makes me feel, he was a real character today and had me laughing. Normally he cries all the way to the vet; he seems to dislike the moving vehicle but today was calm as could be in his carrier. However, when we went into the exam room he became Mr. Grouchy in a hurry. First, when I opened the carrier to take him out to weigh him he backed himself up and wouldn't come out. I tried then to tilt the carrier, but he pushed his back legs against the frame and managed to stay in. Finally, I had to turn it on it's face and he came out but, boy, was he unhappy!
Throughout the exam he growled continuously at the poor vet - I expect she's seen/heard it all before but from Silas this was really unusual behaviour. He kept curling up against me, trying to get away from her and when she brought out the thermometer he literally climbed into my arms to get away. We decided he didn't need to have his temperature taken after all! He couldn't get into the carrier fast enough when it was time to leave! Getting home was a real treat.
Normally Silas is the most laid-back, easy going cat I've ever met. To see him cranky and out of sorts tells me he's had enough with poking and prodding and all the tests. I've brought him home to let him live the rest of his life as he has the first 8 years, spoiled and happy.
As sad as that makes me feel, he was a real character today and had me laughing. Normally he cries all the way to the vet; he seems to dislike the moving vehicle but today was calm as could be in his carrier. However, when we went into the exam room he became Mr. Grouchy in a hurry. First, when I opened the carrier to take him out to weigh him he backed himself up and wouldn't come out. I tried then to tilt the carrier, but he pushed his back legs against the frame and managed to stay in. Finally, I had to turn it on it's face and he came out but, boy, was he unhappy!
Throughout the exam he growled continuously at the poor vet - I expect she's seen/heard it all before but from Silas this was really unusual behaviour. He kept curling up against me, trying to get away from her and when she brought out the thermometer he literally climbed into my arms to get away. We decided he didn't need to have his temperature taken after all! He couldn't get into the carrier fast enough when it was time to leave! Getting home was a real treat.
Normally Silas is the most laid-back, easy going cat I've ever met. To see him cranky and out of sorts tells me he's had enough with poking and prodding and all the tests. I've brought him home to let him live the rest of his life as he has the first 8 years, spoiled and happy.
Friday, 10 June 2011
Ohhh boy
I expect I'll be stiff and sore tomorrow, as I spent several hours helping out at our Day of Caring project at the SCEP centre. There were about a dozen of us, four from my office and the remainder from a financial institution here in the city, who came together to complete a couple of projects. I volunteered to help paint the children's bathroom, while others painted that adult bathroom, and still others cleaned and disinfected toys, furniture and rugs in the main classrooms. We started out with a brightly colored bathroom, each stall was a different color, and ended with white walls, denim blue doors, a wall border (so cute!) and stickers on the walls, hand dryer and doors. It looked so much nicer than when we started as well as clean and fresh!
The initials SCEP represent socialization, communication, and education program. I learned today this program has been around since 1967. Wow! They work with high-risk children, who have difficulty interacting with others often due to behavioural or communication issues, or those who have been affected by abuse. The staff to child ratio is 1:3 but usually with volunteers and university practicum students they are able to provide one on one assistance. The children range in age from 2 to 6'ish and while many are never able to integrate into a regular classroom, some do. They run the program through the school year and also offer a summer program where university students work with the children as part of their curriculum. All of this I learned today, because although I'd heard of the SCEP centre I had absolutely no idea what they did. I'm so glad I took the opportunity to volunteer today because I learned about a very valuable part of our community.
Tomorrow is Saturday and the forecast is for sunny weather...this will be the first nice Saturday this spring! Since it's finally going to be nice I'm picking up my friend Christine and we're going garage saling. We always have a blast; she picks up cat knickknacks (which drives her husband crazy) and I usually end up with more books. Since she's had her son (3 years ago) she longer tries to take off with any small children and we haven't yet bought a garage but we always have lots of laughs. I'm looking forward to our morning.
In the afternoon I have an appointment for Silas to see the vet again; I'm afraid the meds and special diet aren't doing what we've hoped so will discuss where we go from here with the vet. It's not looking good, but I'll wait to see what she has to say before I make any further decisions.
Enjoy your weekend!
The initials SCEP represent socialization, communication, and education program. I learned today this program has been around since 1967. Wow! They work with high-risk children, who have difficulty interacting with others often due to behavioural or communication issues, or those who have been affected by abuse. The staff to child ratio is 1:3 but usually with volunteers and university practicum students they are able to provide one on one assistance. The children range in age from 2 to 6'ish and while many are never able to integrate into a regular classroom, some do. They run the program through the school year and also offer a summer program where university students work with the children as part of their curriculum. All of this I learned today, because although I'd heard of the SCEP centre I had absolutely no idea what they did. I'm so glad I took the opportunity to volunteer today because I learned about a very valuable part of our community.
Tomorrow is Saturday and the forecast is for sunny weather...this will be the first nice Saturday this spring! Since it's finally going to be nice I'm picking up my friend Christine and we're going garage saling. We always have a blast; she picks up cat knickknacks (which drives her husband crazy) and I usually end up with more books. Since she's had her son (3 years ago) she longer tries to take off with any small children and we haven't yet bought a garage but we always have lots of laughs. I'm looking forward to our morning.
In the afternoon I have an appointment for Silas to see the vet again; I'm afraid the meds and special diet aren't doing what we've hoped so will discuss where we go from here with the vet. It's not looking good, but I'll wait to see what she has to say before I make any further decisions.
Enjoy your weekend!
Thursday, 9 June 2011
Oops
My intent was to blog everyday, first as a way to improve my writing skills, and second to create a new habit - one that didn't involve playing games on the computer! First day missed but that's okay, I'll start again from today. ;>)
One of the reasons I didn't get to the blog last night was the sheer length of time it took to get home from work. I normally have an easy commute about 15 minutes to work and maybe 20-25 on the way home. I start work early at 7:30 a.m. and finish at 4:45 p.m. in an attempt to miss the major rush from downtown. And while other cities talk about rush hour traffic we generally have nothing more the rush half-hour traffic. NOT last night!!!
There are only four access roads to my area of the city; two that are pretty much straight shots from downtown, one that takes me north of the downtown and then one that takes me a few miles south to a highway access so I can head back north east. Usually I take one of the first two, but yesterday the Victoria Street access was limited to one lane due to construction and the Arcola access was backed up due to an accident. Of course I didn't know either of these until I was in the midst of the traffic snarl. I found a way to turn right which meant I was heading south - big mistake. Apparently I was not the only one who thought this would be a quicker alternative. At one point I became so frustrated I put my hand out the window of my car to wave at the pedestrians because I was pretty certain I was in a parade! When I finally made it to the highway that would take me home things got a little easier but I spent nearly 75 minutes getting to that point.
My city continues to grow, especially in the south east and north west. (I'm sure if I were to google earth my city at night, it would look elliptical.) As it grows, I expect that traffic will become a bigger headache, especially for those of us used to a short, easy commute. Though I'm certain anyone who lives in a large city, whose normal commute is over an hour would tell me to suck it up so I'd better learn some patience or retire before it gets to that point!
One of the reasons I didn't get to the blog last night was the sheer length of time it took to get home from work. I normally have an easy commute about 15 minutes to work and maybe 20-25 on the way home. I start work early at 7:30 a.m. and finish at 4:45 p.m. in an attempt to miss the major rush from downtown. And while other cities talk about rush hour traffic we generally have nothing more the rush half-hour traffic. NOT last night!!!
There are only four access roads to my area of the city; two that are pretty much straight shots from downtown, one that takes me north of the downtown and then one that takes me a few miles south to a highway access so I can head back north east. Usually I take one of the first two, but yesterday the Victoria Street access was limited to one lane due to construction and the Arcola access was backed up due to an accident. Of course I didn't know either of these until I was in the midst of the traffic snarl. I found a way to turn right which meant I was heading south - big mistake. Apparently I was not the only one who thought this would be a quicker alternative. At one point I became so frustrated I put my hand out the window of my car to wave at the pedestrians because I was pretty certain I was in a parade! When I finally made it to the highway that would take me home things got a little easier but I spent nearly 75 minutes getting to that point.
My city continues to grow, especially in the south east and north west. (I'm sure if I were to google earth my city at night, it would look elliptical.) As it grows, I expect that traffic will become a bigger headache, especially for those of us used to a short, easy commute. Though I'm certain anyone who lives in a large city, whose normal commute is over an hour would tell me to suck it up so I'd better learn some patience or retire before it gets to that point!
Tuesday, 7 June 2011
Change Anything?
Today I attended a seminar with speaker Joseph Grenny, co-author of a new book, Change Anything. When I first heard about the seminar, I thought "Cool...maybe I can learn how to change my workplace, my staff, my kids...", because heaven knows there is nothing to change about me! (said with tongue firmly planted in my cheek)
Then I checked out his website and discovered that in fact, the book and seminar are about making changes in your own life. Oh well, I thought I'll go check it out anyway. The focus of the book is learning how to make lasting changes in your life. The authors explain that willpower isn't the answer, but recognizing and acknowledging the six sources of influence that impact our decisions. It's a real shift in thinking for me because I've always assumed that I was in control and rarely allowed outside influences to impact my choices. The presentation was interesting, intriguing and makes me want to learn more. If you are interested, you can find more information at this link http://www.josephgrenny.com/
This seminar came at a good time in my life. I mentioned in an earlier post that I was thinking it was time to make a change in my life. While I still have no idea what that might mean, I'm hoping this book will help me identify and focus on the areas where I feel stuck in my life and begin the journey.
Then I checked out his website and discovered that in fact, the book and seminar are about making changes in your own life. Oh well, I thought I'll go check it out anyway. The focus of the book is learning how to make lasting changes in your life. The authors explain that willpower isn't the answer, but recognizing and acknowledging the six sources of influence that impact our decisions. It's a real shift in thinking for me because I've always assumed that I was in control and rarely allowed outside influences to impact my choices. The presentation was interesting, intriguing and makes me want to learn more. If you are interested, you can find more information at this link http://www.josephgrenny.com/
This seminar came at a good time in my life. I mentioned in an earlier post that I was thinking it was time to make a change in my life. While I still have no idea what that might mean, I'm hoping this book will help me identify and focus on the areas where I feel stuck in my life and begin the journey.
Monday, 6 June 2011
Monday ramblings
A good day at work for a change - I shouldn't say that because I do really like my job. I've just been in a bit of funk lately because I think we're not always going in the right direction. Today was different because I had more work to do than I normally do - since becoming a team leader two years ago I find I'm not nearly as busy as when I was a worker bee. I always wondered what our manager did, now I know! A lot of it has to do with the management style of our current managers (one and two levels up from me). None of the three are particularly good at delegating, or consulting, and definitely lack in the ability to communicate in a timely manner all sorts of information down the line. As a result, morale has taken a beating and I'm not the only one who has pinpointed their retirement date! August 25, 2019 to be exact...of course if I win the lottery before then...it might be sooner.
I guess my grousing about not having enough to do finally penetrated the minds of the powers that be, as I was tasked with the completion of three project proposals. No reinventing the wheel was necessary as I was able to use a template and merely fill in the blanks...certainly made my job easier. I spent some time this weekend doing research (it kept my mind off Silas anyway) and simply thinking about the reports so when I sat down this morning I was able write them up fairly quickly. I've revised them once and sent them off to a peer review this afternoon and should be able to get them to management tomorrow. (I'm no super writer - these were brief 2-3 page documents - just in case you wondered!)
As for Silas, we've gotten a bit of reprieve. He's been put on a steroid, a derivative of prednisone for 10 days. I'm told it will help increase his appetite, and should ensure he gains a little weight before he goes for surgery. I crushed it into his food tonight and he ate it up so obviously it doesn't taste too bad. Dr. Begg (interesting name for a vet - took me a couple of days to realize) told me that they have another patient, a cat with a similar tumor who had the surgery over a year ago, and although her tumor has reappeared she's had good quality of life. Hearing that was truly a blessing and affirms my decision.
On a sad note, an eighteen year old woman in my city died today after an altercation with another woman last night. Not only is it sad that a young woman has lost her life but the other woman, or rather girl, was only 17 years old. While I don't have the detail I suspect it was due to alcohol or substance abuse. It is so unfortunate that we can spent a billion dollars on a G8 summit but cannot find the funding to make strides to overcome the poverty and hopelessness that exists in our inner cities. It may not have saved these two women from this situation but hopefully would make the future better for others in their community.
If only I ruled the world!
I guess my grousing about not having enough to do finally penetrated the minds of the powers that be, as I was tasked with the completion of three project proposals. No reinventing the wheel was necessary as I was able to use a template and merely fill in the blanks...certainly made my job easier. I spent some time this weekend doing research (it kept my mind off Silas anyway) and simply thinking about the reports so when I sat down this morning I was able write them up fairly quickly. I've revised them once and sent them off to a peer review this afternoon and should be able to get them to management tomorrow. (I'm no super writer - these were brief 2-3 page documents - just in case you wondered!)
As for Silas, we've gotten a bit of reprieve. He's been put on a steroid, a derivative of prednisone for 10 days. I'm told it will help increase his appetite, and should ensure he gains a little weight before he goes for surgery. I crushed it into his food tonight and he ate it up so obviously it doesn't taste too bad. Dr. Begg (interesting name for a vet - took me a couple of days to realize) told me that they have another patient, a cat with a similar tumor who had the surgery over a year ago, and although her tumor has reappeared she's had good quality of life. Hearing that was truly a blessing and affirms my decision.
On a sad note, an eighteen year old woman in my city died today after an altercation with another woman last night. Not only is it sad that a young woman has lost her life but the other woman, or rather girl, was only 17 years old. While I don't have the detail I suspect it was due to alcohol or substance abuse. It is so unfortunate that we can spent a billion dollars on a G8 summit but cannot find the funding to make strides to overcome the poverty and hopelessness that exists in our inner cities. It may not have saved these two women from this situation but hopefully would make the future better for others in their community.
If only I ruled the world!
Sunday, 5 June 2011
Decision made
Okay, I've decided. Tomorrow morning I will call the veternarian's office and schedule Silas's surgery. I owe him that - to give him a chance to live. I've decided, too, that if they find more tumors (a strong possibility) when they open him up, that I'll ask that he not be woken up. Both the doctor and I have agreed that chemo/radiation are out of the question - if it is cancer, which we both assume it is.
Best case scenario is they are able to remove the entire tumor, and he recovers well and lives a long life. And if that's not meant to be, then his death may come a little sooner than had I allowed nature to take it's course. After several teary moments I've come to the conclusion, I can live with that.
I'm reminded of my mother's death from cancer on December 16, 2003. She entered the hospital at the beginning of December - she knew she was waiting to die, and oh, how she wanted it to happen quickly. When my cousin called the afternoon before she died, and suggested that we come, my brother and I made the four hour drive hoping we would be there in time. We arrived just before midnight and relieved my cousin from his watch. We spent that night watching her, turning her when she cried out in pain, and dozing when she did. Later the next morning her doctor came in to see her, and we agreed he should give her morphine for the pain, knowing that it was likely to suppress her breathing and hasten her death. Shortly after the shot was administered she looked at us and began calling to her parents, naming her siblings and her children, and then within mere minutes she was gone.
I recall talking with my brother at that time, saying I would never put an animal through the pain and suffering Mom went through in the last few weeks of her life. Then I was thinking about Mom and wishing we could have eased her pain sooner. I'm at that place now with Silas, I don't want to let him go, and yet I don't want to put him through the pain and suffering merely to prolong the time I have with him. Hence my decision - only time will tell if I've made the right one, but I feel I can live with it.
Best case scenario is they are able to remove the entire tumor, and he recovers well and lives a long life. And if that's not meant to be, then his death may come a little sooner than had I allowed nature to take it's course. After several teary moments I've come to the conclusion, I can live with that.
I'm reminded of my mother's death from cancer on December 16, 2003. She entered the hospital at the beginning of December - she knew she was waiting to die, and oh, how she wanted it to happen quickly. When my cousin called the afternoon before she died, and suggested that we come, my brother and I made the four hour drive hoping we would be there in time. We arrived just before midnight and relieved my cousin from his watch. We spent that night watching her, turning her when she cried out in pain, and dozing when she did. Later the next morning her doctor came in to see her, and we agreed he should give her morphine for the pain, knowing that it was likely to suppress her breathing and hasten her death. Shortly after the shot was administered she looked at us and began calling to her parents, naming her siblings and her children, and then within mere minutes she was gone.
I recall talking with my brother at that time, saying I would never put an animal through the pain and suffering Mom went through in the last few weeks of her life. Then I was thinking about Mom and wishing we could have eased her pain sooner. I'm at that place now with Silas, I don't want to let him go, and yet I don't want to put him through the pain and suffering merely to prolong the time I have with him. Hence my decision - only time will tell if I've made the right one, but I feel I can live with it.
Saturday, 4 June 2011
Tough day
This is a difficult post to write because I have to face making a difficult decision (or more likely more than one). Today I took my handsome and horribly skinny kitty Silas to the vet for more tests. This is the second round of testing in the past three weeks, he hates the car ride to the vet, and isn't any happier coming home after being poked and prodded. We were there last night for blood tests but had to wait until today in order to get an ultrasound done.
The veternarian has ruled out all sorts of illnesses, including diabetes, liver disease, leukemia, etc. The results from the ultrasound, however, were not positive. Dr. Begg found a small lump in his belly last night, and the tests today confirm he has a tumor. This is where I need to start making decisions. Over the past two weeks, he has lost another kilogram (about 2 lbs), and neither I nor the vet are certain he could survive a surgery. On the other hand, not going ahead will certainly result in his death, whether natural or assisted.
So for the next couple of days, I'll be encouraging him to eat by feeding him his favorite foods and more frequently in an effort to gain some needed strength for the surgery. By Monday morning, I must make the decision about the surgery. I know that without the surgery he will continue to lose weight; I cannot allow him to starve to death. Should we go ahead, there is a possibility they may find more tumors. My hope is that they will be able to remove the tumor, repair the tissue damage, and send him home to live a long life.
Whatever the decision I have to make, I want to do what is best for Silas. He's such a special boy, charming, happy, and so patient. He does not deserve this and I will do my utmost to keep him pain free and at home where he is happiest.
I'm including a before and after photo to show the difference:
Before
And after
The veternarian has ruled out all sorts of illnesses, including diabetes, liver disease, leukemia, etc. The results from the ultrasound, however, were not positive. Dr. Begg found a small lump in his belly last night, and the tests today confirm he has a tumor. This is where I need to start making decisions. Over the past two weeks, he has lost another kilogram (about 2 lbs), and neither I nor the vet are certain he could survive a surgery. On the other hand, not going ahead will certainly result in his death, whether natural or assisted.
So for the next couple of days, I'll be encouraging him to eat by feeding him his favorite foods and more frequently in an effort to gain some needed strength for the surgery. By Monday morning, I must make the decision about the surgery. I know that without the surgery he will continue to lose weight; I cannot allow him to starve to death. Should we go ahead, there is a possibility they may find more tumors. My hope is that they will be able to remove the tumor, repair the tissue damage, and send him home to live a long life.
Whatever the decision I have to make, I want to do what is best for Silas. He's such a special boy, charming, happy, and so patient. He does not deserve this and I will do my utmost to keep him pain free and at home where he is happiest.
I'm including a before and after photo to show the difference:
Before
Thursday, 2 June 2011
The 7 dwarves of menopause
Sleeping beauty - hardly - tired, yes. Last night four of the seven dwarves were visiting, Itchy, Sweaty, and Bloaty, with Bitchy following not far behind. Sleepy didn't show up for the longest time and he was the one I wanted to see! I spent the time practicing memory items - like the list of the seven dwarves - in a hope to avoid Forgetful. Thankfully Sleepy got here before Psycho did - however I'm not sure what the neighbours might have thought had they seen me removing my pajama top and flapping it madly in a hope to cool off quickly!
If you've not seen them, here's a link http://entertainment.webshots.com/photo/2464561770043177766tVxnys
I have vague memories of my Mom going through the change. What I recall is a very bitchy woman sometimes bordering on psycho but then again, when she was my age she had two teenagers at home and a rebellious, almost 19 year old (me) who caused her plenty of grief. My friends who are of similar age haven't quite reached this stage, damn peri-menopause, and aren't experiencing the hot flashes and night damps. I found this blog http://www.mymenopauseblog.com/ and although the author has completed her journey, I've used some of her suggestions in an effort to relieve my symptoms. Hard to say how it's working since I don't know what it would be like if I didn't take black cohosh, vitamin E, and evening primrose oil.
As my Dad used to say, "getting old ain't for sissies". I may not feel old, but I certainly know my body is going through some major changes. It's taking some getting used to!
If you've not seen them, here's a link http://entertainment.webshots.com/photo/2464561770043177766tVxnys
I have vague memories of my Mom going through the change. What I recall is a very bitchy woman sometimes bordering on psycho but then again, when she was my age she had two teenagers at home and a rebellious, almost 19 year old (me) who caused her plenty of grief. My friends who are of similar age haven't quite reached this stage, damn peri-menopause, and aren't experiencing the hot flashes and night damps. I found this blog http://www.mymenopauseblog.com/ and although the author has completed her journey, I've used some of her suggestions in an effort to relieve my symptoms. Hard to say how it's working since I don't know what it would be like if I didn't take black cohosh, vitamin E, and evening primrose oil.
As my Dad used to say, "getting old ain't for sissies". I may not feel old, but I certainly know my body is going through some major changes. It's taking some getting used to!
Wednesday, 1 June 2011
And the rest of the family
It seems only fair that I ought to mention the rest of my family - of the human variety! My children tell me that I love the cats more than them....and well....sometimes.... Let's see cats don't eat me out of house and home, cats don't generally talk back, and when I go to bed the cats don't stay up and play loud music....there just might be some truth to their assertion. ;>) But they have to know I love them too because when they both moved home to live with me - I bought a bigger house!
My first-born is my daughter D, she's my pride, and my son C who came 6 years later is my joy. D has always been a high needs child and that hasn't changed even as she approaches her 30th birthday. C is the polar opposite, he was an easy baby and is so laid back I sometimes think he's going backwards. Despite their differences they love each other and get along far better than my siblings and I ever did. As I mentioned they both live with me due to both choice and circumstances. As these are their stories I'll not share more than that. I certainly enjoyed my two years when they both lived away from home; I find it entirely different living with two other adults rather than two children. I don't get to boss them around anymore! (I'd post pictures but I can't even find any recent ones - how sad is that?)
The rest of my family (who thankfully don't live with me) are my two brothers, my sister, and their respective families. I am particularly close to my youngest brother who lives within a half-hour of me. His children, De-niece and De-Nephew are 8 and 10 years old; they're two little characters, crazy busy, and talkative. They are so much fun I need to have a nap after spending an afternoon with them. Their Puddy is the mother to my Shady and Silas, and they also have two of the remaining litter, PJ (Puddy Junior) and Hollywood. (Notice how I work the cats into this post too?)
My parents are both deceased, my Mom passed away in December 2003 just 9 days short of her 75th birthday, while Dad passed in September 2008 just 3 weeks after his 98th birthday. If you're quick on the math you'll note that Dad was considerly older than Mom...she was 26 and he 44 when they married in 1954. Mom had her first stroke (a family tradition unfortunately) at the age of 66 and never totally recovered. Dad had a brain bleed in 2003 (at the same time as Mom's death - it was crazy period in my life) and in January 2004 had a stroke. It didn't hold him back much, and it wasn't until he had a fall in 2006 that he had to be moved to a nursing home. Dad wanted so much to live to be 100 but it wasn't to be. I miss both of them everyday and still find myself picking up the phone to tell them something. Fortunately I have a surrogate mom - my godmother - who has willingly been there for me.
Now you know 'the rest of the story' - well at least the characters who figure most in my life. As you'll note there is no significant other, no ex, nor a live-in butler (as my Mom called them). I've never been good at relationships, perhaps I'm easily bored, or impossible to live with. At one time that was a sore point for me, but in the past 10 years or so I've content the way it is. Not only do I get to make all the decisions but I don't have to share my bed and closet!
My first-born is my daughter D, she's my pride, and my son C who came 6 years later is my joy. D has always been a high needs child and that hasn't changed even as she approaches her 30th birthday. C is the polar opposite, he was an easy baby and is so laid back I sometimes think he's going backwards. Despite their differences they love each other and get along far better than my siblings and I ever did. As I mentioned they both live with me due to both choice and circumstances. As these are their stories I'll not share more than that. I certainly enjoyed my two years when they both lived away from home; I find it entirely different living with two other adults rather than two children. I don't get to boss them around anymore! (I'd post pictures but I can't even find any recent ones - how sad is that?)
The rest of my family (who thankfully don't live with me) are my two brothers, my sister, and their respective families. I am particularly close to my youngest brother who lives within a half-hour of me. His children, De-niece and De-Nephew are 8 and 10 years old; they're two little characters, crazy busy, and talkative. They are so much fun I need to have a nap after spending an afternoon with them. Their Puddy is the mother to my Shady and Silas, and they also have two of the remaining litter, PJ (Puddy Junior) and Hollywood. (Notice how I work the cats into this post too?)
My parents are both deceased, my Mom passed away in December 2003 just 9 days short of her 75th birthday, while Dad passed in September 2008 just 3 weeks after his 98th birthday. If you're quick on the math you'll note that Dad was considerly older than Mom...she was 26 and he 44 when they married in 1954. Mom had her first stroke (a family tradition unfortunately) at the age of 66 and never totally recovered. Dad had a brain bleed in 2003 (at the same time as Mom's death - it was crazy period in my life) and in January 2004 had a stroke. It didn't hold him back much, and it wasn't until he had a fall in 2006 that he had to be moved to a nursing home. Dad wanted so much to live to be 100 but it wasn't to be. I miss both of them everyday and still find myself picking up the phone to tell them something. Fortunately I have a surrogate mom - my godmother - who has willingly been there for me.
Now you know 'the rest of the story' - well at least the characters who figure most in my life. As you'll note there is no significant other, no ex, nor a live-in butler (as my Mom called them). I've never been good at relationships, perhaps I'm easily bored, or impossible to live with. At one time that was a sore point for me, but in the past 10 years or so I've content the way it is. Not only do I get to make all the decisions but I don't have to share my bed and closet!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)