I was reminded today that how we view the world depends on our perspective. Yesterday, I was whining about my lack of ambition and focusing on me, me, me. While I still believe it is important for me to set limits on both my computer and television use, I hadn't thought about what I would fill my time with in the absence of these activities.
When I opened my e-mail account at work today there were two new messages that went straight to my heart. Both were from co-workers advising us that the young wife of another co-worker was killed this weekend in a car accident. She was just 36 years old, the mother of three young children, on her way to the city on Friday morning to go to work. There are few details but it would seem another vehicle came out from a side road and collided with her vehicle.
While I don't know her husband well, as he works in another one of our offices, my heart aches at the pain he must be feeling right now knowing he did not get a final goodbye and must continue in life without his partner. As I read through the obituary in today's newspaper I realized there was another connection. One of the sisters of this young woman was a close of my daughter's in her university days. E was often in our home and my daughter spent time with her family at their farm home as well.
It is so true that life can change in an instant; life is short, no matter the years we are given. I acknowledge my focus needs to change from those activities that do nothing for those I love, or those who are in need, to those that feed my spirit. This is how I can and should spend the time I have committed.
Please hold tight to those you love today whether in your arms or your heart. And if you could spare a moment, send a thought or prayer to Brett and his extended family as they endure this heartbreak.
Monday, 29 August 2011
Sunday, 28 August 2011
I am a lazy lump and it's time to do something about it!
Was thinking today about what my first goal might be and decided that the most appropriate choice would be to spend less time on the computer and watching television. Guess what I spent my day doing? And not just a few hours but darn near the entire day.
In my defence neither of my adult children was awake before early afternoon and being theloving sucker mother that I am I chose not to do any tasks that might wake them. Part of this choice is so that I have the house to myself, it is quiet and peaceful, and I can relax and enjoy whatever I'm doing.
I watched numerous episodes of Law and Order, Big Bang Theory, napped to the PGA golf this afternoon, and caught up on Big Brother this evening. I also played countless games of Pogo Addicition Solitaire and Tri Peaks Solitaire. What a waste of a day and I feel tired despite having done nothing particularly productive today.
I've realized I need to set a concrete and measurable goal if I'm going to change my habit. So, here goes: Monday-Friday - limit of 2 hours ; Saturday-Sunday - limit of 4 hours. It's probably still at lot but much less than I currently spend on the computer and television. I'll have to choose in advance the television programs I want to watch instead of doing a search each time one program ends.
Limiting my time on the computer should also help my right arm. I've been to the massage therapists a number of times due to stiffness and pain in my right arm and shoulder. He's told me he believes it's due to overuse and repetitive strain from using the mouse.
Hopefully the withdrawal won't be too difficult!
In my defence neither of my adult children was awake before early afternoon and being the
I watched numerous episodes of Law and Order, Big Bang Theory, napped to the PGA golf this afternoon, and caught up on Big Brother this evening. I also played countless games of Pogo Addicition Solitaire and Tri Peaks Solitaire. What a waste of a day and I feel tired despite having done nothing particularly productive today.
Limiting my time on the computer should also help my right arm. I've been to the massage therapists a number of times due to stiffness and pain in my right arm and shoulder. He's told me he believes it's due to overuse and repetitive strain from using the mouse.
Hopefully the withdrawal won't be too difficult!
Saturday, 27 August 2011
Happy New Year!
Someone needs to tell my neighbour's tree that it is still summer! It has decided that it must be autumn, as the leaves are turning yellow and brown, and starting to fall. 
Yet the heat continues, with a forecast high today of 30C. I love the heat, but the cooler evenings and nights are a welcome counterpoint to the heat of the day.
Although I'm not quite ready to concede that summer is nearly past us, I look forward to the fall. This time of year is my new year, more so than the cold and frozen January. I think it has to do with the number of years when I went to school. I started my university classes the year that my son C started kindergarten. At the time I was 33, had been out of school for 15 years, working in a dead-end job at a financial institution.
When I made the announcement at work that I was leaving to pursue my education, I was met with reactions that ranged from, "good luck" to "you'll never manage with two kids", and even "you, you're too stupid to go to school". I still wonder why the last was even spoken aloud, but in a sense, it was a good thing because I was determined to prove the speaker wrong.
And I did, graduating four and a half years later, with a degree in Business Administration with an average of 84.7% overall. I remember walking across the stage to receive my piece of paper that I had worked so hard to get, and thinking, f* you, just watch me. Probably an inappropriate thought, but one that has stuck with me throughout the years, whenever someone has suggested I cannot or should not do something.
In the next few weeks I plan to spend some time reflecting on the past, and thinking about my future. I won't be making resolutions, since those tend to fall by the wayside, but rather some goals to reach over the next few months. By publicly sharing these goals on my blog, I hope toencourage prod myself towards success! Just don't expect anything too lofty, I'm more realistic these days.
Although I'm not quite ready to concede that summer is nearly past us, I look forward to the fall. This time of year is my new year, more so than the cold and frozen January. I think it has to do with the number of years when I went to school. I started my university classes the year that my son C started kindergarten. At the time I was 33, had been out of school for 15 years, working in a dead-end job at a financial institution.
When I made the announcement at work that I was leaving to pursue my education, I was met with reactions that ranged from, "good luck" to "you'll never manage with two kids", and even "you, you're too stupid to go to school". I still wonder why the last was even spoken aloud, but in a sense, it was a good thing because I was determined to prove the speaker wrong.
And I did, graduating four and a half years later, with a degree in Business Administration with an average of 84.7% overall. I remember walking across the stage to receive my piece of paper that I had worked so hard to get, and thinking, f* you, just watch me. Probably an inappropriate thought, but one that has stuck with me throughout the years, whenever someone has suggested I cannot or should not do something.
In the next few weeks I plan to spend some time reflecting on the past, and thinking about my future. I won't be making resolutions, since those tend to fall by the wayside, but rather some goals to reach over the next few months. By publicly sharing these goals on my blog, I hope to
Thursday, 25 August 2011
The Honorable Jack Layton, 1950-2011
One of the topics I had determined I would not blog about is politics. Not only can the topic bring about strong emotions and rhetoric for some, but one I feel less than confident to speak to. However, I would be remiss if I did not mention the passing of one of the major political figures in Canada this week.
Jack Layton, the leader of the New Democratic Party of Canada, passed away on Monday morning at the age of 61. His death follows an unprecedented success of the party in the most recent federal election, in which the NDP earned 103 seats and became the Official Opposition for the first time in Canadian history.
In the last two years, Jack Layton had undergone treatment for, and appeared to have beaten, prostrate cancer. In the weeks prior to the election, he had undergone hip surgery. At the first few events of the campaign he appeared frail needing a cane to walk. As time went on, however, both he and his campaign gained strength. In fact by the end of the campaign, his cane became a pointing device or even, as some media described it, his sword.
The story of the victory is made bittersweet, knowing now as we do, how soon his death would come. On July 25th, he met with the media to tell the Canadian public that he was again battling an undisclosed form of cancer. He vowed to beat cancer again and be back in the House of Commons by fall. Sadly it was not to be as he lost his battle in the early morning of August 22, 2011.
Whether one agrees with his political beliefs, Jack Layton was a man to be admired. He was passionate in his beliefs, he stood up for those beliefs, and was unafraid to point out inequities. He was also a negotiator, willing to offer to work with other political parties to bring about change. He was well known for his optimism, his passion, and his smile.
.
His obituary indicates he was survived by his wife and his children and grandchild. More than that, he is survived the legacy he has left for his party and his followers, and all Canadians who have lost a valuable and honorable member of our nation.
Andrew Vaughan/Canadian Press
Jack Layton, the leader of the New Democratic Party of Canada, passed away on Monday morning at the age of 61. His death follows an unprecedented success of the party in the most recent federal election, in which the NDP earned 103 seats and became the Official Opposition for the first time in Canadian history.
In the last two years, Jack Layton had undergone treatment for, and appeared to have beaten, prostrate cancer. In the weeks prior to the election, he had undergone hip surgery. At the first few events of the campaign he appeared frail needing a cane to walk. As time went on, however, both he and his campaign gained strength. In fact by the end of the campaign, his cane became a pointing device or even, as some media described it, his sword.
The story of the victory is made bittersweet, knowing now as we do, how soon his death would come. On July 25th, he met with the media to tell the Canadian public that he was again battling an undisclosed form of cancer. He vowed to beat cancer again and be back in the House of Commons by fall. Sadly it was not to be as he lost his battle in the early morning of August 22, 2011.
Whether one agrees with his political beliefs, Jack Layton was a man to be admired. He was passionate in his beliefs, he stood up for those beliefs, and was unafraid to point out inequities. He was also a negotiator, willing to offer to work with other political parties to bring about change. He was well known for his optimism, his passion, and his smile.
.
Andrew Vaughan/Canadian Press
Wednesday, 24 August 2011
Home again, home again, jiggity jig
I was away less than 36 hours but it is so nice to be home. For some reason I just couldn't sleep for more than a couple of hours at a time. The bed was certainly big and the bedding very comfortable, the air conditioning unit was quiet, and there were no bright lights shining into the room. In any event, I slept for a few hours, was awake for an hour or so, slept for a couple more, then awake again for another hour. I've been home for a couple of hours and I'm ready for bed!
There's a realtor's sign on my neighbour's front lawn. I knew she was planning to sell since she came by a couple of weekends ago to ask if she could repair our fence. When the previous owner of my house put in the sunroom and deck he removed the fence to get the materials to the back yard. Although he put the fence back in, his carpentry skills were apparently no better than mine, as he didn't complete the job. I really hadn't noticed when we viewed the property and it wasn't a priority on my list of things to dol. So I certainly had no problem with the neighbour fixing the fence.
Of course, I had to check the listing out on-line to compare to my own property. I was surprised to learn that while it is larger than my home, the listing is priced several thousand dollars less than I paid for mine. My immediate reaction was "yikes, did I over pay?" Likely not, as her house has one less bedroom, one less bath, a single garage not a double, no sunroom or deck and no basement development. Phew! Of course, if there is an open house I'll go take a peek just to be certain.
Time to try to get a good night's sleep. Maybe I just missed the cats!
There's a realtor's sign on my neighbour's front lawn. I knew she was planning to sell since she came by a couple of weekends ago to ask if she could repair our fence. When the previous owner of my house put in the sunroom and deck he removed the fence to get the materials to the back yard. Although he put the fence back in, his carpentry skills were apparently no better than mine, as he didn't complete the job. I really hadn't noticed when we viewed the property and it wasn't a priority on my list of things to dol. So I certainly had no problem with the neighbour fixing the fence.
Of course, I had to check the listing out on-line to compare to my own property. I was surprised to learn that while it is larger than my home, the listing is priced several thousand dollars less than I paid for mine. My immediate reaction was "yikes, did I over pay?" Likely not, as her house has one less bedroom, one less bath, a single garage not a double, no sunroom or deck and no basement development. Phew! Of course, if there is an open house I'll go take a peek just to be certain.
Time to try to get a good night's sleep. Maybe I just missed the cats!
Monday, 22 August 2011
On the road
It's been awhile since I've had to go out on the road for work. Usually I sit in the office and wait for my team to come back in. My manager has asked that I attend at least one meeting with each of my team members every six months. So far I haven't met my goal as I've only attended a couple of meetings. It's not for lack of trying, just conflicting schedules.
This week I'm out of the office with one of my team in a small community. There is a lot of development in this area of the province and the hotel is busy. The parking lot is full and I've heard a lot of traffic in the hallway. There is apparently a young child down the hall. He's been expressing his dissatisifaction since 5:30 this evening. His dad had him outside riding his little bicycle when I went for a walk and he continued to whine throughout. Hopefully he tires out soon and falls asleep!
This is a newer hotel, it certainly wasn't here when I was last in this city about five years ago. My room is lovely and big with a full kitchenette (stove, fridge, and microwave), a couch, chair, and ottoman, as well as the queen sized bed and dresser. I enjoy staying in a hotel occasionally, having a soak in the tub, relaxing in the peace and quiet of no cats or kids, and watching television in bed. I simply refuse to have a television in my bedroom at home because I know I'd watch too much, in the hotel it's a guilty pleasure.
When I look around this room, I wonder why I need so much more space at home. In reality this 300-350 square foot space appears to be ample and it would certainly be easier to keep clean. Especially if I lived in the hotel! However, with four cats and two adult children living with me, the space at home is necessary. It not only means we have our own spaces but it has lots of room for storage of all those items we can't seem to let go.
Time to go watch tv in bed, good night!
This week I'm out of the office with one of my team in a small community. There is a lot of development in this area of the province and the hotel is busy. The parking lot is full and I've heard a lot of traffic in the hallway. There is apparently a young child down the hall. He's been expressing his dissatisifaction since 5:30 this evening. His dad had him outside riding his little bicycle when I went for a walk and he continued to whine throughout. Hopefully he tires out soon and falls asleep!
This is a newer hotel, it certainly wasn't here when I was last in this city about five years ago. My room is lovely and big with a full kitchenette (stove, fridge, and microwave), a couch, chair, and ottoman, as well as the queen sized bed and dresser. I enjoy staying in a hotel occasionally, having a soak in the tub, relaxing in the peace and quiet of no cats or kids, and watching television in bed. I simply refuse to have a television in my bedroom at home because I know I'd watch too much, in the hotel it's a guilty pleasure.
When I look around this room, I wonder why I need so much more space at home. In reality this 300-350 square foot space appears to be ample and it would certainly be easier to keep clean. Especially if I lived in the hotel! However, with four cats and two adult children living with me, the space at home is necessary. It not only means we have our own spaces but it has lots of room for storage of all those items we can't seem to let go.
Time to go watch tv in bed, good night!
Sunday, 21 August 2011
My daughter was having friends over yesterday for a barbecue and drinks. Being the good mom I am, I decided to spend the evening away to provide them some privacy. Besides "The Help" was playing at one of the local theatres and I'd heard it was a good movie.
It was better than good, it was an incredible story that left me wanting more. I fell in love with the characters, got caught up in their lives, and want to know what happened to them. The story takes place in Jacksonville, Mississippi in the 1960's and centers on the lives of three women, Skeeter, Minny and Aibileen. Skeeter has recently completed her college degree while the other two are maids in the homes of her friends. The three women come together through Skeeter's desire to tell the story of "The Help". It sounds simple, but the writing and telling of the story of black women during a time of turbulence and violence could not be easy.
At times this movie wasn't comfortable to watch. It reminds us there was a time when intolerance and racism was the reality. And yet, there is so much laughter in this story, along with the fear and the tears, that I came away feeling a sense of hope. Whether the story is true or not, it touched my heart and my mind, and I couldn't hope for more than that of a movie.
It was better than good, it was an incredible story that left me wanting more. I fell in love with the characters, got caught up in their lives, and want to know what happened to them. The story takes place in Jacksonville, Mississippi in the 1960's and centers on the lives of three women, Skeeter, Minny and Aibileen. Skeeter has recently completed her college degree while the other two are maids in the homes of her friends. The three women come together through Skeeter's desire to tell the story of "The Help". It sounds simple, but the writing and telling of the story of black women during a time of turbulence and violence could not be easy.
At times this movie wasn't comfortable to watch. It reminds us there was a time when intolerance and racism was the reality. And yet, there is so much laughter in this story, along with the fear and the tears, that I came away feeling a sense of hope. Whether the story is true or not, it touched my heart and my mind, and I couldn't hope for more than that of a movie.
Friday, 19 August 2011
A lazy Friday
I had great intentions, I truly did, with a number of chores and projects to complete. I accomplished none and while I should probably feel guilty I don't!
After feeding the cats about 7 a.m. I went back to bed to catch a few more zzz's. The goal was another half hour, but when I finally came to, it was 9:30. I guess I was more tired than I thought. All four of the cats were snuggled in as well so it was very cozy.
I finished loading the dishwasher with the dishes others left in the sink (not me!), made a pot of coffee, and turned on the computer to do some research on flights and hotels for our winter holiday. Although we've booked our trip out of Miami to St. Lucia and our cruise out of Fort Lauderdale, we haven't yet determined how we'll get there and where we'll stay for the two nights.
There are endless sites available purporting to have the least expensive travel and accomodation options. Opening one site often brought up others offering to compare the options. Identifying the options for flights and checking amenities at the various hotels is fun but incredibly time consuming. Especially when you add it catching up on my reading of the various blogs I follow and playing a few games. An entire afternoon was gone in moments with no decisions made.
This evening I went out to dinner with a group of friends. After a nice meal I went over C & N's house to watch a football game and visit for awhile. It was a lovely way to end a very lazy day.
After feeding the cats about 7 a.m. I went back to bed to catch a few more zzz's. The goal was another half hour, but when I finally came to, it was 9:30. I guess I was more tired than I thought. All four of the cats were snuggled in as well so it was very cozy.
I finished loading the dishwasher with the dishes others left in the sink (not me!), made a pot of coffee, and turned on the computer to do some research on flights and hotels for our winter holiday. Although we've booked our trip out of Miami to St. Lucia and our cruise out of Fort Lauderdale, we haven't yet determined how we'll get there and where we'll stay for the two nights.
There are endless sites available purporting to have the least expensive travel and accomodation options. Opening one site often brought up others offering to compare the options. Identifying the options for flights and checking amenities at the various hotels is fun but incredibly time consuming. Especially when you add it catching up on my reading of the various blogs I follow and playing a few games. An entire afternoon was gone in moments with no decisions made.
This evening I went out to dinner with a group of friends. After a nice meal I went over C & N's house to watch a football game and visit for awhile. It was a lovely way to end a very lazy day.
Thursday, 18 August 2011
Thursday's thoughts
My first thought,
Blogging isn't easy. I don't think of myself as a creative person, so it can be daunting to come up with something I think might be remotely interesting to someone other than me. I try to take note of articles I read or events that occur and share that information. Often, though I fall back on what's been happening in my life. Often mundane, I suspect my life is not so different from others in this blogging world.
Another thought,
I love my pets, as much as I love my children, and some days even more - because the cats don't talk back. ;>) I'm a supporter of our local Humane Society by donating time and money. (I don't go to the shelter though, otherwise I'd have more cats!) Today at work, a person I work with suggested my donation were misguided. She informed me, "people are more important than animals". I was offended, I think both are important and I believe the way we treat our animals, is reflective of our respect for all life. At the extreme, studies show that serial killers often have their start by killing helpless animals.
Tonight I am reminded how much my cats mean to me. A good friend of mine, had to have both her dogs put down tonight as the result of parvo virus My heart breaks for her, as these pups were so very special to her and part of the family.
Still another thought,
Summer in Saskatchewan is too short! The last few nights have been cool with temperatures of less than 10C (50F). While it's supposed to be warmer for the next few days, it reminds me that fall isn't far away. To make the point even clearer, this morning I went out to water my containers and found leaves on the tree in the neighbour's backyard are starting to change color and even a few leaves have fallen.
But even as I say that, I know that our autumns are beautiful, with sunny days, cool and crisp nights, and a myriad of fall colors. It may start early, in August, but will frequently last until November. And even though winter will follow I'll be looking forward to my winter holiday. Just four and a half months and I'll be relaxing on a beach in St. Lucia.
And my final thought,
Blogging isn't easy. I don't think of myself as a creative person, so it can be daunting to come up with something I think might be remotely interesting to someone other than me. I try to take note of articles I read or events that occur and share that information. Often, though I fall back on what's been happening in my life. Often mundane, I suspect my life is not so different from others in this blogging world.
Another thought,
I love my pets, as much as I love my children, and some days even more - because the cats don't talk back. ;>) I'm a supporter of our local Humane Society by donating time and money. (I don't go to the shelter though, otherwise I'd have more cats!) Today at work, a person I work with suggested my donation were misguided. She informed me, "people are more important than animals". I was offended, I think both are important and I believe the way we treat our animals, is reflective of our respect for all life. At the extreme, studies show that serial killers often have their start by killing helpless animals.
Tonight I am reminded how much my cats mean to me. A good friend of mine, had to have both her dogs put down tonight as the result of parvo virus My heart breaks for her, as these pups were so very special to her and part of the family.
Still another thought,
Summer in Saskatchewan is too short! The last few nights have been cool with temperatures of less than 10C (50F). While it's supposed to be warmer for the next few days, it reminds me that fall isn't far away. To make the point even clearer, this morning I went out to water my containers and found leaves on the tree in the neighbour's backyard are starting to change color and even a few leaves have fallen.
But even as I say that, I know that our autumns are beautiful, with sunny days, cool and crisp nights, and a myriad of fall colors. It may start early, in August, but will frequently last until November. And even though winter will follow I'll be looking forward to my winter holiday. Just four and a half months and I'll be relaxing on a beach in St. Lucia.
And my final thought,
Tuesday, 16 August 2011
Tired Tuesday
It serves me right! Did I or did I not post yesterday that I rarely suffer from insomnia? I admit it, I did. And apparently karma truly is a b*tch.
I went to bed at my normal time, 10:30 and fell asleep quickly, as is my usual practice. I slept well until 1 a.m. when I woke up, for no apparent reason, and could not get back to sleep. I tossed and turned for awhile, went to the bathroom, tried relaxation techniques, I stared at the ceiling and made a mental to-do-list for work today hoping to bore myself back into dreamland. Nothing worked and at 2:30 a.m. I was staring at my alarm clock and mentally calculating the number of hours before the alarm would sound (3.5).
Then a wicked hot flash hit me. The nights are cooling off here, so I had my window open, but even the breeze did nothing to ease the intense overwhelming heat I was feeling. I tossed off my covers, tore off my nighty and flapped it madly in the air in front of me. If I could have figured out a way to crawl out of my skin, I'd have done it in a heartbeat.
After getting a glass of ice water I started to feel the warmth dissipate...thank goodness. I crawled back into bed, thinking I might read for a few minutes, but I was exhausted. I was asleep again in a just a few minutes and when the alarm went off, I was still tired.
I'm thinking an early night and an Estroven is in order. Wish me luck!
I went to bed at my normal time, 10:30 and fell asleep quickly, as is my usual practice. I slept well until 1 a.m. when I woke up, for no apparent reason, and could not get back to sleep. I tossed and turned for awhile, went to the bathroom, tried relaxation techniques, I stared at the ceiling and made a mental to-do-list for work today hoping to bore myself back into dreamland. Nothing worked and at 2:30 a.m. I was staring at my alarm clock and mentally calculating the number of hours before the alarm would sound (3.5).
Then a wicked hot flash hit me. The nights are cooling off here, so I had my window open, but even the breeze did nothing to ease the intense overwhelming heat I was feeling. I tossed off my covers, tore off my nighty and flapped it madly in the air in front of me. If I could have figured out a way to crawl out of my skin, I'd have done it in a heartbeat.
I'm thinking an early night and an Estroven is in order. Wish me luck!
Monday, 15 August 2011
Now that's good news!
An article appeared in our local newspaper today that put a big smile on my face. A study by U.S. researchers has shown drinking coffee can reduce the risk of skin cancer. I have to say, I love you guys!!!
I'm a huge coffee drinker (perhaps you've noticed a trend in earlier posts).
My morning doesn't begin until I've had my first sip of coffee and the caffiene hits my blood stream. Before that I'm merely functioning on auto-pilot. I can get dressed, feed the cats, even drive myself to work, but there is no point in talking to me because I am not truly awake.
I don't stop there either, by "coffee time" I'm starting my third and sometimes fourth cup of the day. I often have a cup at lunch and a final cup about mid-afternoon. Infrequently I'll even have a cup or two in the evening at home. I used to drink more but in the past couple of years I've cut back because I've heard all negative stories of the effects of too much caffiene. It can cause a decrease in sleep quality, can be irritating to the stomach lining, often causes frequent urination and loss of vitamins, and is thought to increase stress levels. Maybe, but I rarely miss out on sleep, unless the cats are restless, I have a cast iron stomach, my frequent bathroom breaks are more likely the result of having had children and weak bladder muscles, and though I can get frustrated I rarely feel very stressed.
I've been drinking coffee for nearly 35 years and finally I have some good news. The article even says, "Previous studies have shown coffee drinkers tend to have fewer incidences of breast, uterine, prostate and colon cancers, but the beneficial effects are not seen in people who drink decaffeinated coffee". Now when someone suggests I'm drinking too much coffee I'll tell them I'm preventing cancer. Works for me!
I'm a huge coffee drinker (perhaps you've noticed a trend in earlier posts).
I don't stop there either, by "coffee time" I'm starting my third and sometimes fourth cup of the day. I often have a cup at lunch and a final cup about mid-afternoon. Infrequently I'll even have a cup or two in the evening at home. I used to drink more but in the past couple of years I've cut back because I've heard all negative stories of the effects of too much caffiene. It can cause a decrease in sleep quality, can be irritating to the stomach lining, often causes frequent urination and loss of vitamins, and is thought to increase stress levels. Maybe, but I rarely miss out on sleep, unless the cats are restless, I have a cast iron stomach, my frequent bathroom breaks are more likely the result of having had children and weak bladder muscles, and though I can get frustrated I rarely feel very stressed.
I've been drinking coffee for nearly 35 years and finally I have some good news. The article even says, "Previous studies have shown coffee drinkers tend to have fewer incidences of breast, uterine, prostate and colon cancers, but the beneficial effects are not seen in people who drink decaffeinated coffee". Now when someone suggests I'm drinking too much coffee I'll tell them I'm preventing cancer. Works for me!
Sunday, 14 August 2011
Summertime and the living is easy
This summer's weather has been the best it's been in years at least in my memory. We've had several weeks of above average temperatures and while it's brought on a number of storms, the damage has not been severe. Knock wood! Today is much the same, with the temperature around 31C (about 87F), and as the day is winding down the clouds are rolling in.
In the past few years it seemed as though every weekend was cool and rainy. I didn't pay as much notice to the weather during the week because I would be at work. But it would be so frustrating to be kept indoors on the weekend, or at least for most of it, due to lower than normal temperatures and constant rain.
This year I've spent more time outdoors (or nearly outdoors in the sunroom) than inside on the weekends. This morning I started with coffee on the deck, had breakfast in the sunroom, and back out to the deck to read and relax in the sun. I enjoyed my lunch on the deck followed by another hour reading on the chaise lounger in the sun.
My son C, arrived home from an out of town wedding about 2 p.m. I came indoors to catch up with him and to cool off. It was hot outside! When my friend, K came over about 2:30 for a visit, we headed back outdoors enjoy the sunshine. She left about an hour ago, so I came indoors to feed the livestock and myself. The storms are beginning to build, I can see them coming on the radar, so I'll probably end the night watching them from the sunroom. I won't be surprised if I'm asleep before my head hits the pillow tonight. It's been a perfect weekend!
In the past few years it seemed as though every weekend was cool and rainy. I didn't pay as much notice to the weather during the week because I would be at work. But it would be so frustrating to be kept indoors on the weekend, or at least for most of it, due to lower than normal temperatures and constant rain.
This year I've spent more time outdoors (or nearly outdoors in the sunroom) than inside on the weekends. This morning I started with coffee on the deck, had breakfast in the sunroom, and back out to the deck to read and relax in the sun. I enjoyed my lunch on the deck followed by another hour reading on the chaise lounger in the sun.
My son C, arrived home from an out of town wedding about 2 p.m. I came indoors to catch up with him and to cool off. It was hot outside! When my friend, K came over about 2:30 for a visit, we headed back outdoors enjoy the sunshine. She left about an hour ago, so I came indoors to feed the livestock and myself. The storms are beginning to build, I can see them coming on the radar, so I'll probably end the night watching them from the sunroom. I won't be surprised if I'm asleep before my head hits the pillow tonight. It's been a perfect weekend!
Saturday, 13 August 2011
I like Saturday
What's not to like? I don't have to go to work and even though the cats still insist on being fed by 7 a.m., I can go back to bed if I choose or make a pot of coffee and relax for a couple of hours. This morning I decided that my bed was calling my name, so I crawled back in and slept until 9:30!
I got up, made my pot of coffee, and started on some housework. Have you ever noticed things have a way of getting out of place? Or is just me? At first I don't really notice, I just go looking for them in the last place I used them, and then one day I realize a lot of items aren't where they ought to be. Today was one of those days so I spent a half hour wandering around picking up and putting stuff away.
At one point I wandered out to the sunroom to eat my breakfast. It soon started to warm up in there so I was back into the house to do more work. The entire house got vacuumed, the cat litter was cleaned, laundry was started, dishes done and my bed remade with fresh linens by mid-afternoon. I get such a sense of accomplishment when I can look around and my house is tidy and neat. It will never grace the cover of House and Garden but I love it anyway!
This evening I've been watching television, mostly football. I went to change the load in the laundry and came back to this.
He's so cute I didn't have the heart to move him...even if it is my chair!
I got up, made my pot of coffee, and started on some housework. Have you ever noticed things have a way of getting out of place? Or is just me? At first I don't really notice, I just go looking for them in the last place I used them, and then one day I realize a lot of items aren't where they ought to be. Today was one of those days so I spent a half hour wandering around picking up and putting stuff away.
At one point I wandered out to the sunroom to eat my breakfast. It soon started to warm up in there so I was back into the house to do more work. The entire house got vacuumed, the cat litter was cleaned, laundry was started, dishes done and my bed remade with fresh linens by mid-afternoon. I get such a sense of accomplishment when I can look around and my house is tidy and neat. It will never grace the cover of House and Garden but I love it anyway!
This evening I've been watching television, mostly football. I went to change the load in the laundry and came back to this.
Friday, 12 August 2011
Anger and sadness
When I was young I was quick to anger, lashing out at those who wronged me, and generally dissolving into tears. As an adult, I've learned to restrain my emotions and not allow others to see my frustration. I rarely cry even when no one is around to see me.
Today at work, a woman came to our office to discuss her mother's account. I can't get into details but basically it has come to light that her mom has been the victim of a fraud, has lost her life savings, and due to the situation her mental and physical health has declined. As I sat across the table from this young woman, listening to her story, watching her tear up as she described the impact on her mom, I felt myself getting angry.
I was angry with the individuals who perpetuated the fraud on this woman. I was angry that their lack of integrity allowed them to take advantage of her. I was angry that those who were paid for their advice didn't look out for the best interests of their client despite the obvious problems with the investment. I was angry that it is unlikely that any of the funds can be recovered. And I was especially angry as it appears that no one will ever be held accountable for their actions.
Caveat emptor or let the buyer beware remains as true in the modern world as it was in ancient Rome. A thief may come in many guises, it could be a trusted advisor; perhaps a minister, a financial broker, an accountant or even a family member.
While we may be able to provide some assistance to her, we can never entirely rectify the situation, as we cannot turn back the clock. And that makes me sad.
Today at work, a woman came to our office to discuss her mother's account. I can't get into details but basically it has come to light that her mom has been the victim of a fraud, has lost her life savings, and due to the situation her mental and physical health has declined. As I sat across the table from this young woman, listening to her story, watching her tear up as she described the impact on her mom, I felt myself getting angry.
I was angry with the individuals who perpetuated the fraud on this woman. I was angry that their lack of integrity allowed them to take advantage of her. I was angry that those who were paid for their advice didn't look out for the best interests of their client despite the obvious problems with the investment. I was angry that it is unlikely that any of the funds can be recovered. And I was especially angry as it appears that no one will ever be held accountable for their actions.
While we may be able to provide some assistance to her, we can never entirely rectify the situation, as we cannot turn back the clock. And that makes me sad.
Thursday, 11 August 2011
Disappointment
A few months ago I changed my work schedule. We have the flexibility to work up to 9 hours days, from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a 1/2 hour lunch break, with the requirement that we must work 150 hours in a 4 week period. It allows us to bank time each day to use for earned days off. When I worked this schedule I could take every Friday off except for the one in four when I worked six hours.
Unfortunately, leaving the office at 5 p.m. meant getting into the rush hour traffic. It's a misnomer because in this city the rush never lasts more than 20 minutes or a half hour. However, it's still annoying to be caught up in traffic that appears to be moving a the same pace as a parade. If you haven't already noticed I'm really not a patient person!
Hoping to avoid some of the traffic, I changed my schedule to 8.75 hours from 7:30 to 4:45. Most days I even remember to leave on time! But making the change messed up my earned days off; now I get two out of four Fridays off and then I have a choice to make. If I work a regular day of 8.75 hours on the one Friday, it means coming in for just a few hours on the other Friday or I can split the time evenly and work two short days. The latter is the choice I've made.
Today my manager asked if I was in the office tomorrow. I told him I would be on an earned day off. Then I checked my schedule....and it turns out I am working tomorrow until 2 p.m. I was so disappointed!
Unfortunately, leaving the office at 5 p.m. meant getting into the rush hour traffic. It's a misnomer because in this city the rush never lasts more than 20 minutes or a half hour. However, it's still annoying to be caught up in traffic that appears to be moving a the same pace as a parade. If you haven't already noticed I'm really not a patient person!
Hoping to avoid some of the traffic, I changed my schedule to 8.75 hours from 7:30 to 4:45. Most days I even remember to leave on time! But making the change messed up my earned days off; now I get two out of four Fridays off and then I have a choice to make. If I work a regular day of 8.75 hours on the one Friday, it means coming in for just a few hours on the other Friday or I can split the time evenly and work two short days. The latter is the choice I've made.
Today my manager asked if I was in the office tomorrow. I told him I would be on an earned day off. Then I checked my schedule....and it turns out I am working tomorrow until 2 p.m. I was so disappointed!
Wednesday, 10 August 2011
Tuesday, 9 August 2011
What was he thinking?
A Phoenix man was injured last week when he accidentally shot himself in the crotch.
That's not a typo, this fellow was on the way to the grocery story with his girlfriend when he slipped her gun into the waistband of his pants. The gun fired, the bullet striking his penis and going through his thigh.
Maybe because I am Canadian, where gun laws are extremely strict, but I just don't understand a number of things about this situation. Why wasn't the gun in the woman's purse? Why were they taking a gun to the grocery store? Why wasn't the safety on?
I must admit my first reaction was laughter - survival of the fittest theories come to mind. On the other hand, the news article names this poor fool and I suspect he's had to endure not only the pain from this incident but the comments that come with it.
That's not a typo, this fellow was on the way to the grocery story with his girlfriend when he slipped her gun into the waistband of his pants. The gun fired, the bullet striking his penis and going through his thigh.
Maybe because I am Canadian, where gun laws are extremely strict, but I just don't understand a number of things about this situation. Why wasn't the gun in the woman's purse? Why were they taking a gun to the grocery store? Why wasn't the safety on?
I must admit my first reaction was laughter - survival of the fittest theories come to mind. On the other hand, the news article names this poor fool and I suspect he's had to endure not only the pain from this incident but the comments that come with it.
Monday, 8 August 2011
Really?
If you received an invitation to a meeting (via e-mail) that read:
Please check your schedules and try to attend this meeting to discuss (blah, blah, blah). I have attached the original e-mail for your reference.
The attachment e-mail read in part "By now many of you will have met with your team leader or manager to discuss (blah, blah, blah)."
What would you think?
a) oh, this must be about a meeting we've already attended and I can ignore the e-mail
or
b) oh, we're having a meeting I should attend.
I really thought my message was clear...but apparently not because two of my seven staff choose option a! Years ago, I was told that we don't hire the best and the brightest; I may have not have believed it then but I'm starting to wonder now.
Please check your schedules and try to attend this meeting to discuss (blah, blah, blah). I have attached the original e-mail for your reference.
The attachment e-mail read in part "By now many of you will have met with your team leader or manager to discuss (blah, blah, blah)."
What would you think?
or
b) oh, we're having a meeting I should attend.
I really thought my message was clear...but apparently not because two of my seven staff choose option a! Years ago, I was told that we don't hire the best and the brightest; I may have not have believed it then but I'm starting to wonder now.
Sunday, 7 August 2011
Hurting
I woke up with a headache this morning, tried to go back to sleep for awhile hoping to get past it, but it's still hanging on. I'm trying a couple of Advil and a cup of coffee for now. I know coffee wouldn't normally be a remedy but since I drink a lot of it, I think my body might need the caffeine.
I used to get mild headaches regularly and migraines once or twice a year. I knew when a migraine was coming on as I would see an aura, in the form of colored lights in front of my eyes. As long as I took a couple of Advil or Tylenol and went to bed I'd be okay in a short period of time.
Menopause seemed to have cured me of the headaches, at least until today. This is wicked, I'm feeling nauseous, my shoulders and neck muscles are tight, and my thinking is fuzzy. My sinuses and even my teeth ache!
I had planned do get a lot of things done today...not happening any time soon.
I used to get mild headaches regularly and migraines once or twice a year. I knew when a migraine was coming on as I would see an aura, in the form of colored lights in front of my eyes. As long as I took a couple of Advil or Tylenol and went to bed I'd be okay in a short period of time.
Menopause seemed to have cured me of the headaches, at least until today. This is wicked, I'm feeling nauseous, my shoulders and neck muscles are tight, and my thinking is fuzzy. My sinuses and even my teeth ache!
I had planned do get a lot of things done today...not happening any time soon.
Friday, 5 August 2011
Taking the stairs
My friend K booked the second half of our winter vacation earlier this week. I'm sure I've posted about it before, but in case I didn't we're going to do a cruise for the second week. It's a seven day Western Caribbean cruise out of Ft. Lauderdale with Princess.
We did our cruise last year with Princess and I loved it. We were in an obstructed oceanview room on Deck 8 which I thought was a perfect location, not far from the promenade deck and not too far from the buffet either. K and I made a rule, unless we were carrying luggage or masses of shopping, we weren't to take the elevator. At first I found climbing the stairs really difficult but a week into the trip I could climb six flights without stopping. Of course I didn't keep it up when I came home!
For this trip we've booked a balcony room, it was the same price as the oceanview rooms, and we'llshould have a great view each day. The only problem (at least for me) is the room is on the 14th deck, only one deck away from the buffet but a lonnnggg way from everythig else.
Just by looking at my profile picture, you'll note I'm out of shape. I've decided in light of the hiking we plan to do in St. Lucia and the stair climbing on board ship, it's time I did something to get into a little better shape. So since Wednesday I've been avoiding the elevator at work and taking the stairs. While I have no illusions that I'll lose fifty pounds by January I'm hoping the stair climbing on board ship will be a little easier. But for now my first goal is simply to make it to the 4th floor (where I work) without wheezing!
We did our cruise last year with Princess and I loved it. We were in an obstructed oceanview room on Deck 8 which I thought was a perfect location, not far from the promenade deck and not too far from the buffet either. K and I made a rule, unless we were carrying luggage or masses of shopping, we weren't to take the elevator. At first I found climbing the stairs really difficult but a week into the trip I could climb six flights without stopping. Of course I didn't keep it up when I came home!
For this trip we've booked a balcony room, it was the same price as the oceanview rooms, and we'll
Just by looking at my profile picture, you'll note I'm out of shape. I've decided in light of the hiking we plan to do in St. Lucia and the stair climbing on board ship, it's time I did something to get into a little better shape. So since Wednesday I've been avoiding the elevator at work and taking the stairs. While I have no illusions that I'll lose fifty pounds by January I'm hoping the stair climbing on board ship will be a little easier. But for now my first goal is simply to make it to the 4th floor (where I work) without wheezing!
Thursday, 4 August 2011
Thursday thoughts
Is there a point in life when we stop competing, whether it is for the attention, recognition, or simply for the thrill of the chase?
How is that I end up behind the slowest moving vehicle on my way home from work?
Is my need to get in front of that slow moving vehicle not just another form of competition?
Today's meeting at work was painful as two of our managers spent equal time chest-thumping with their explanations as to how each of their piles was bigger than the others. The drive home was no less painful as I got caught behind a vehicle travelling 40km (about 25mph) in a 70km (about 45mph)zone.
Thank goodness tomorrow is Friday; I have no meetings planned and traffic should be lighter!
How is that I end up behind the slowest moving vehicle on my way home from work?
Is my need to get in front of that slow moving vehicle not just another form of competition?
Today's meeting at work was painful as two of our managers spent equal time chest-thumping with their explanations as to how each of their piles was bigger than the others. The drive home was no less painful as I got caught behind a vehicle travelling 40km (about 25mph) in a 70km (about 45mph)zone.
Thank goodness tomorrow is Friday; I have no meetings planned and traffic should be lighter!
Wednesday, 3 August 2011
A licence to kill?
Two stories in the news today have me shaking with anger and frustration. In the first story, a woman in Calgary, Alberta admitted to suffocating her then 10 month old son seven years ago. She also plead guilty to the attempted murder of her five year old son, an incident that happened a year ago and sparked the investigation into the death of her first child. The little boy suffered brain damage and now requires constant care.
The second incident occurred this weekend, when a man driving drunk struck and killed a teenage boy north of Battleford, Saskatchewan. It would be a sad story nonetheless but is made worse by the fact that the boy was the man's son.
In both cases, a parent took the life of one of their children, whether through choice or circumstance. It appears the mother had little or no remorse for her actions, and while the father may be feeling sorry for his actions now, his decision to drink and drive is the direct cause of his son's death.
Our children deserve better. I've often thought it odd that we need a licence to drive or carry a gun, but we can become parents any time after we reach puberty. It would seem that caring for the most vulnerable in our lives should be as important.
The second incident occurred this weekend, when a man driving drunk struck and killed a teenage boy north of Battleford, Saskatchewan. It would be a sad story nonetheless but is made worse by the fact that the boy was the man's son.
In both cases, a parent took the life of one of their children, whether through choice or circumstance. It appears the mother had little or no remorse for her actions, and while the father may be feeling sorry for his actions now, his decision to drink and drive is the direct cause of his son's death.
Our children deserve better. I've often thought it odd that we need a licence to drive or carry a gun, but we can become parents any time after we reach puberty. It would seem that caring for the most vulnerable in our lives should be as important.
Tuesday, 2 August 2011
Good day
I took a drive this evening out to my brother's farm. No pictures to share this time because I forgot to take my camera! :>( It was a nice evening for a drive, about 25C, so I wound down the windows and let the breeze keep me cool. It did make singing along to the radio a little tough!
After checking the house and yard, I put out fresh water for the cats, and waited for them to show up. Hollywood was the first to come out of hiding, then Puddy and finally PJ (Puddy junior). Puddy is the mama cat to the others and also to my Silas and Shady. She's a short hair tortie about 11 years old. Her girls are both long hair; Hollywood is almost completely black while PJ looks like her mom with long hair (hence the name). Both Puddy and Hollywood are friendly, love to get petted and scratched, while PJ is content to just view me from afar. I sat on the front veranda in the sun reading my book for a about a half an hour while the three cats found places to curl up in the shade.
It was a relaxing way to wind down from the work day. But I have to admit while I enjoy (and sometimes envy) my brother's piece of heaven on earth there is simply no way I'd want the work that comes with it! My backyard may not be as quiet and peaceful but it suits me fine.
After checking the house and yard, I put out fresh water for the cats, and waited for them to show up. Hollywood was the first to come out of hiding, then Puddy and finally PJ (Puddy junior). Puddy is the mama cat to the others and also to my Silas and Shady. She's a short hair tortie about 11 years old. Her girls are both long hair; Hollywood is almost completely black while PJ looks like her mom with long hair (hence the name). Both Puddy and Hollywood are friendly, love to get petted and scratched, while PJ is content to just view me from afar. I sat on the front veranda in the sun reading my book for a about a half an hour while the three cats found places to curl up in the shade.
It was a relaxing way to wind down from the work day. But I have to admit while I enjoy (and sometimes envy) my brother's piece of heaven on earth there is simply no way I'd want the work that comes with it! My backyard may not be as quiet and peaceful but it suits me fine.
Monday, 1 August 2011
Day 4 has come too soon
It's been a wonderful long weekend, with lots of sun and heat, time to relax and just enjoy my time off. I even managed to get some housework done! Today was all about outdoors, mowing and watering the lawn, weeding and watering the containers, and sweeping up the deck. Once my chores were done I got some good reading time in laying on my deck chair. I'm re-reading the Diana Giabaldon series, starting with the Outlander which I finished last night, and the Voyager today. I bought the newest book and after pages realized I needed to refresh my memory.
When I got tired of reading and tanning, I cooled off in the shade and worked on my afghan project. I've almost completed the first 20 row which comprise the pattern.
It's going to take some time to finish but I'm pleased with the results thus far.
Now I just have to get my head wrapped around having to go back to work tomorrow!
When I got tired of reading and tanning, I cooled off in the shade and worked on my afghan project. I've almost completed the first 20 row which comprise the pattern.
Now I just have to get my head wrapped around having to go back to work tomorrow!
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