I'm off again tomorrow on my second work related trip in the past three weeks. You would think that having packed my suitcase just a couple of weeks ago, it would be a snap. Ha! You'd be wrong...I leave most of my dress shoes at work because I don't wear them anywhere else. Well, I left the office on Friday without the shoes I intended to take with me on this trip. I did have one pair I could use and luckily my daughter D and I wear the same size so I borrowed a pair of her flats.
I checked the weather channel and it won't be any better in Ottawa than it will be here. It's not really cold but definitely getting there. I was really hoping for a few more days of nice weather to enjoy as I'll be walking to dinner most evenings. There is a restaurant in the hotel I'm staying in, but I've eaten there once and was not impressed. $15 for a bowl of soup is just a little too much for me. I was one of only a handful of people in the restaurant, and then a group came in with several small children. Guess who they sat them next to....that's right, me! Don't get me wrong, I generally like children, just not tired and cranky children in a restaurant with no kid's menu. I probably won't eat there again.
To get to my course is easy, there is an underground walkway from the hotel to the building where the training room is located, with a Tim Horton's on the way. I generally grab breakfast there, read the newspaper, and watch the line up grow as people stop in their way to work. It's amazing how quickly the orders get processed while the line-up keeps going. I can think of a few places that could learn a lesson in efficiency from the staff at this location.
I've decided not to take my laptop with me. I took my work laptop on my trip to Calgary; it was a nuisance taking it through security and I never did get my wifi to work. I'm pretty sure I'd be able to get internet with my personal laptop but it's one more thing to carry. Instead I'll take my crocheting - it's been sadly neglected for a month or better. If I spent as much time working on my projects as I do playing on the 'net they woudd be complete!
My blog will be quiet until I get back. I'll take my camera, will share some pictures as I expect the fall colors will be in full force there.
Have a great week!
Saturday, 29 October 2011
Friday, 28 October 2011
Winter is coming whether I want it to or not.
It's late October, Halloween is Monday, so we can expect snow in the next few weeks if not days. So far the long range isn't showing any major precipitation but I won't be surprised to see it happen on Halloween.
I can't remember the number of times when I was young, and then when my children were growing up, going out trick or treating with costumes on top of snow suits or winter coats. I suppose there was some benefit to that because the costumes fit for a couple of years! Though I don't remember ever convincing one of my kids to wear a costume two years in a row.
This year, I'll be in Ottawa for Halloween. I leave early Sunday morning, like really freaking early, at 6 a.m. I don't what I was thinking when I booked the flight. However, I'll be in Ottawa by early afternoon so will be able to get a good night's rest. This is another trip for work, the last of a series of courses I need for my current position and one I've been wanting for some time.
This session is the human resources module and when you manage a group of people, the personnel issues arise almost daily. I really don't understand why they leave this module to last. This past week I've been completing my performance review discussions with staff who were part of my team this year. There have been some issues throughout the year (and continuing) that require a knowledge of human resource and labour relation policies. And I'm working on two competitive processes. If nothing else I hope this session reinforces the decisions I've made.
I'm looking forward to the trip as well because it will give me an opportunity to get together with a number of friends who have moved to Ottawa over the past few years. I probably won't get to visit very often from now on, since this will be the last trip paid for by my employer. If I'm paying for the trip, I'm more likely to go somewhere warm!
And now with winter coming I'm even more grateful we booked our winter holiday early. Just 74 more sleeps to go!
It's late October, Halloween is Monday, so we can expect snow in the next few weeks if not days. So far the long range isn't showing any major precipitation but I won't be surprised to see it happen on Halloween.
I can't remember the number of times when I was young, and then when my children were growing up, going out trick or treating with costumes on top of snow suits or winter coats. I suppose there was some benefit to that because the costumes fit for a couple of years! Though I don't remember ever convincing one of my kids to wear a costume two years in a row.
This year, I'll be in Ottawa for Halloween. I leave early Sunday morning, like really freaking early, at 6 a.m. I don't what I was thinking when I booked the flight. However, I'll be in Ottawa by early afternoon so will be able to get a good night's rest. This is another trip for work, the last of a series of courses I need for my current position and one I've been wanting for some time.
This session is the human resources module and when you manage a group of people, the personnel issues arise almost daily. I really don't understand why they leave this module to last. This past week I've been completing my performance review discussions with staff who were part of my team this year. There have been some issues throughout the year (and continuing) that require a knowledge of human resource and labour relation policies. And I'm working on two competitive processes. If nothing else I hope this session reinforces the decisions I've made.
I'm looking forward to the trip as well because it will give me an opportunity to get together with a number of friends who have moved to Ottawa over the past few years. I probably won't get to visit very often from now on, since this will be the last trip paid for by my employer. If I'm paying for the trip, I'm more likely to go somewhere warm!
And now with winter coming I'm even more grateful we booked our winter holiday early. Just 74 more sleeps to go!
Thursday, 27 October 2011
Soft kitty, warm kitty
I love the television show, Big Bang Theory. The humor is a little bit highschool nerd trying to fit into the modern world. It makes me laugh.
If you haven't seen the show, one of the truly memorable characters, Sheldon is a highly intelligent physicist who turns into a little boy when he feels ill. At those times he asks Penny (she lives across the hall) to sing to him this ditty.
"Soft kitty, warm kitty, little ball of fur
Happy kitty, sleepy kitty, purr, purr, purr"
I was uploading some pictures from my camera tonight while I was watching the latest episode and even though it wasn't of tonight's show the song kept running through my head.
Here's my soft kitty, Sami hanging out in the sunroom
Sleeping Sasha likes to cuddle in my chair with me
Saku prefers to have the chair to himself
My beautiful Silas was happiest on my lap
Missing my boy, and treasuring the last few photos I have of him.
If you haven't seen the show, one of the truly memorable characters, Sheldon is a highly intelligent physicist who turns into a little boy when he feels ill. At those times he asks Penny (she lives across the hall) to sing to him this ditty.
"Soft kitty, warm kitty, little ball of fur
Happy kitty, sleepy kitty, purr, purr, purr"
I was uploading some pictures from my camera tonight while I was watching the latest episode and even though it wasn't of tonight's show the song kept running through my head.
Here's my soft kitty, Sami hanging out in the sunroom
Sleeping Sasha likes to cuddle in my chair with me
Saku prefers to have the chair to himself
My beautiful Silas was happiest on my lap
Missing my boy, and treasuring the last few photos I have of him.
Wednesday, 26 October 2011
Tuesday, 25 October 2011
Don't promise me the moon and stars
We are currently in the midst of a provincial election. Fortunately the campaign is limited to about 30 days which is short enough we won't have to listen to the politicians make promises they have no intention of keeping. Oh they will keep a few, the ones that cost the least and are most visible to the voting public, while the rest of the promises are defeated in the legislature. (It's really not difficult process, the government members just don't show up for a vote, and *poof* there goes that promise!)
If somehow I could send a message to the politicians it would be this:
As you make your promises to the electorate, I'd ask you to remember who will be responsible to pay for these promises. Please recall that ultimately ever penny government spends come from the pockets of the taxpayers. I'm one of the few who don't mind paying taxes (at least most of the time) because I see the benefits everytime I drive on one of our roads, take a flight from an airport, or go to a hospital or a school.
But when you promise us the moon and the stars I get angry.
You MUST realize we simply cannot afford to provide free housing or education or medical care to every person in this province. So much of our tax revenues rely on the natural resources and the businesses that spin-off these industries. Those natural resources are not infinite and we, all of us, have a responsibiity to the generations to follow to preserve and maintain these resources for as long as possible.
We give you the trust to make the best decisions for our province. We want you to promote our products and services across the globe, to provide services that the private sector is unwilling or unable to provide, to safeguard the natural resources, and to care for the less fortunate in our communities. It's not an easy job.
So please don't patronize us in the waning days of the campaign. Spend your time instead of considering how you might best meet the goals and expectations of the province's people. Give us something real and believable to base our decision. Frankly, this moon and star stuff isn't fooling anyone! Maybe I'll vote for the Rhinocerus party...are they running this year?
From a frustrated and undecided voter!
If somehow I could send a message to the politicians it would be this:
As you make your promises to the electorate, I'd ask you to remember who will be responsible to pay for these promises. Please recall that ultimately ever penny government spends come from the pockets of the taxpayers. I'm one of the few who don't mind paying taxes (at least most of the time) because I see the benefits everytime I drive on one of our roads, take a flight from an airport, or go to a hospital or a school.
But when you promise us the moon and the stars I get angry.
We give you the trust to make the best decisions for our province. We want you to promote our products and services across the globe, to provide services that the private sector is unwilling or unable to provide, to safeguard the natural resources, and to care for the less fortunate in our communities. It's not an easy job.
So please don't patronize us in the waning days of the campaign. Spend your time instead of considering how you might best meet the goals and expectations of the province's people. Give us something real and believable to base our decision. Frankly, this moon and star stuff isn't fooling anyone! Maybe I'll vote for the Rhinocerus party...are they running this year?
From a frustrated and undecided voter!
Monday, 24 October 2011
Too tired to post
So I'll share a picture from my last Caribbean cruise...just 79 more sleeps to my next winter getaway.
This picture was taken from a narrow gauge railway train on St. Kitt's. We spent an afternoon touring the island, it was beautiful!
This picture was taken from a narrow gauge railway train on St. Kitt's. We spent an afternoon touring the island, it was beautiful!
Sunday, 23 October 2011
Gratitude
Thank you Trish and Dawn for your lovely comments to my last post. I cannot tell you how much it means to me to hear from you, it's so good to know I'm not alone in this moment.
I've realized that no matter how difficult it is to let go of Silas, (or for that matter, anyone we love), I would never wish that he had not been part of my life. He asked so little of me and gave so much; I will be forever grateful.
I'm grateful too, that you are part of my life as well. How fortunate I am to know that there are others outside the realm of my everyday who demonstrate empathy towards me. Thank you for your friendship through the web.
I was surfing the net last night and came across this little picture. It made me laugh and thought I'd share it here. I hope you enjoy it too!
I've realized that no matter how difficult it is to let go of Silas, (or for that matter, anyone we love), I would never wish that he had not been part of my life. He asked so little of me and gave so much; I will be forever grateful.
I'm grateful too, that you are part of my life as well. How fortunate I am to know that there are others outside the realm of my everyday who demonstrate empathy towards me. Thank you for your friendship through the web.
I was surfing the net last night and came across this little picture. It made me laugh and thought I'd share it here. I hope you enjoy it too!
Saturday, 22 October 2011
Dear Silas
I am so sorry I was unable to make you well again. I hope you know how much I love you; today when I said good-bye was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. Dr. Stutka agreed that it was time, you had simply lost far too much weight, and were facing a slow death by starvation. I simply could not let that happen to you.
I remember the first time I saw you. You were born on my brother R's acreage in or near a pipe in tall grass in the shelter of an old building. I can recall seeing this tiny orange kitten climbing out of the pipe and upon seeing me arching your little back and fluffing up your fur to challenge me. Once we were able to catch you, you turned on the purrs showing the gentle and loving cat you truly were.
I admit I had decided I didn't want you, I was prepared to only take one of the six kittens, and had my eye on a little black kitten instead. But my daughter D fell for you and said you would be her cat so I agreed to take you home along with your sister Shady.
As the introductions were made to the other cats it was apparent Sasha was simply resigned to your addition. He looked at us as if to say, "again? Really?" Silver took an instant dislike to both of you - mind you she really didn't like any other cat but Sasha anyway. That never stopped you from trying though, with the occasional scratch on your nose to show for it. Sami, on the other hand, became your new mom. She bathed and cared for the two of you, meted out discipline, even as you grew bigger than she was.
And big is what you became; it was pretty apparent your Papa was probably a big tom as you reached 22 lbs. at your largest. You never realized how large you were and would try to cuddle up on my chest as I slept at night cutting off my ability to breath and always waking me. And yet, it took me quite awhile to realize that you been losing weight last spring, in fact, DeNeice was the first to notice how thin you were becoming.
I think you knew something was going to happen today. I woke, still able to breath, as you curled up on my chest. You were so light I barely realized you were there. On the way to the vet, a trip you normally cried contnually, you were quiet until we were just a few blocks away. When they moved us into the quiet room, you spent some time checking it out before settling down beside me for a few last moments of loving. I am grateful for these last few memories and will cherish them forever.
Goodbye, sweet Silas - I am certain you are playing with Shady today in a warm place full of treats, toys and with your health restored. Thank you for being my special boy...I will love you forever.
Love,
Mom
I remember the first time I saw you. You were born on my brother R's acreage in or near a pipe in tall grass in the shelter of an old building. I can recall seeing this tiny orange kitten climbing out of the pipe and upon seeing me arching your little back and fluffing up your fur to challenge me. Once we were able to catch you, you turned on the purrs showing the gentle and loving cat you truly were.
I admit I had decided I didn't want you, I was prepared to only take one of the six kittens, and had my eye on a little black kitten instead. But my daughter D fell for you and said you would be her cat so I agreed to take you home along with your sister Shady.
As the introductions were made to the other cats it was apparent Sasha was simply resigned to your addition. He looked at us as if to say, "again? Really?" Silver took an instant dislike to both of you - mind you she really didn't like any other cat but Sasha anyway. That never stopped you from trying though, with the occasional scratch on your nose to show for it. Sami, on the other hand, became your new mom. She bathed and cared for the two of you, meted out discipline, even as you grew bigger than she was.
And big is what you became; it was pretty apparent your Papa was probably a big tom as you reached 22 lbs. at your largest. You never realized how large you were and would try to cuddle up on my chest as I slept at night cutting off my ability to breath and always waking me. And yet, it took me quite awhile to realize that you been losing weight last spring, in fact, DeNeice was the first to notice how thin you were becoming.
I think you knew something was going to happen today. I woke, still able to breath, as you curled up on my chest. You were so light I barely realized you were there. On the way to the vet, a trip you normally cried contnually, you were quiet until we were just a few blocks away. When they moved us into the quiet room, you spent some time checking it out before settling down beside me for a few last moments of loving. I am grateful for these last few memories and will cherish them forever.
Goodbye, sweet Silas - I am certain you are playing with Shady today in a warm place full of treats, toys and with your health restored. Thank you for being my special boy...I will love you forever.
Love,
Mom
Friday, 21 October 2011
Decision time
I arrived home tonight, pleased with the progress made this week at work, and grateful to be home. The feelings of happiness were short-lived however. While I was away, Silas' health has declined sharply and it was quite apparent I can no longer put off the decision I've been dreading since last spring.
When he was diagnosed with cancer in April, the veternarian wrote on his discharge papers a recommendation for euthenasia if he wasn't doing well. At that time I wasn't certain how long he would be with us because Silas was losing weight at a rapid rate of nearly a pound (a little less than a 1/2 kilogram) a week. With his new diet, though, he seemed to rally and the weight loss slowed down.
Tonight however, when I weighed him I realized he had lost another pound. I had set a limit in my mind - I would not allow Silas to drop below seven pounds. I know there are many cats who are this weight normally, however at his heaviest Silas reached 22 pounds; at 7 pounds he would be less than 1/3 of this amount. I refuse to allow him to starve to death and I fear this is what he is currently facing.
Tonight I will hold my special boy close, shower him with kisses and love, and say farewell. Tomorrow I'll see him on his way to cross the bridge to his sister Shady. Tonight I am at peace with my decision. Tomorrow may be a different matter.
When he was diagnosed with cancer in April, the veternarian wrote on his discharge papers a recommendation for euthenasia if he wasn't doing well. At that time I wasn't certain how long he would be with us because Silas was losing weight at a rapid rate of nearly a pound (a little less than a 1/2 kilogram) a week. With his new diet, though, he seemed to rally and the weight loss slowed down.
Tonight however, when I weighed him I realized he had lost another pound. I had set a limit in my mind - I would not allow Silas to drop below seven pounds. I know there are many cats who are this weight normally, however at his heaviest Silas reached 22 pounds; at 7 pounds he would be less than 1/3 of this amount. I refuse to allow him to starve to death and I fear this is what he is currently facing.
Tonight I will hold my special boy close, shower him with kisses and love, and say farewell. Tomorrow I'll see him on his way to cross the bridge to his sister Shady. Tonight I am at peace with my decision. Tomorrow may be a different matter.
Sunday, 16 October 2011
Leaving town
I fly out to Calgary tomorrow for a week and I've decided not to take both laptops with me, just the one I use for work. The security profile (because I can't think what else to call it) is very high on that laptop...as it should be...so I expect I won't have access to my blog. I know for certain I won't have access to my personal e-mail or Facebook. Maybe that's a good thing!
The thought of slogging two laptop bags through security just doesn't seem to make it worthwhile. It never fails that my laptop bag gets selected for the "swab" test. What I find most humorous is that there is tag attached to the bag that indicates it is the property of the government of Canada. To all the CBSA agents out there - in the grand scheme of things we work for the same employer - why on earth would I use a government owned property for illegal purposes. I like my job and intend to keep it!
I've also had the dubious pleasure of being selected for a pat down. With my body shape I sometimes wonder if they're thinking "it can't possibly be fat, can it?". It can, and it is, and while it's been awhile since anyone touched me, I'd prefer a young good looking male agent if you must choose me! So far I haven't been chosen for the x-ray or whatever it's called that lets them see below your clothing....eewww.
Having left you with a mental picture you had no desire to see, this will be the last post for a few days. Have a great week!
The thought of slogging two laptop bags through security just doesn't seem to make it worthwhile. It never fails that my laptop bag gets selected for the "swab" test. What I find most humorous is that there is tag attached to the bag that indicates it is the property of the government of Canada. To all the CBSA agents out there - in the grand scheme of things we work for the same employer - why on earth would I use a government owned property for illegal purposes. I like my job and intend to keep it!
I've also had the dubious pleasure of being selected for a pat down. With my body shape I sometimes wonder if they're thinking "it can't possibly be fat, can it?". It can, and it is, and while it's been awhile since anyone touched me, I'd prefer a young good looking male agent if you must choose me! So far I haven't been chosen for the x-ray or whatever it's called that lets them see below your clothing....eewww.
Having left you with a mental picture you had no desire to see, this will be the last post for a few days. Have a great week!
Saturday, 15 October 2011
It's Saturday...make that Caturday
Here's some recent pic's of my favorite cats! Hope you like them too!!!
Sami and Sasha napping on the couch - Sasha makes a great pillow.
Sleepy Silas snuggled up on Mom's bed.
Sasha found place to sleep all by himself.
Saku and his favorite blanket...he purrs and kneads and loves it to bits.
Have a wonderful Saturday everyone!
Have a wonderful Saturday everyone!
Friday, 14 October 2011
OMG it's October!
It's not as though I didn't know what month it was but it's suddenly hit me that we're almost halfway through the month. In some ways I'd been dreading the arrival of October because I knew that it was going to be a busy time for me. It's definitely been that and more. 
September is the start of the new performance cycle, with performance appraisals due by the end of October. Although I keep on top of these throughout the year I cannot complete my reviews until the supervisors meet as a group to calibrate the ratings. We finally had that meeting the first week of October.
October also brings our annual fundraising campaign for charity. It's pretty much a month long event with a number of events planned. I've been on the committee for 2 years now and despite our pre-planning it always seems that we scramble to get everything done on time. Kickoff was yesterday, it went well, but I have to say if it wasn't for one of the co-chairs it might not have been such a success. At the last minute there were a couple of committee members suddenly remembering things that needed to be done. Thankfully she'd anticipated the issues and had ensured all the little details were handled.
This year, my time is stretched even more as I'm off to our Calgary office for a week of training and then at the end of the month to Ottawa for still another week. As a result I have one week in between the two trips to complete my discussions and get the reports completed. It doesn't leave a lot of time, especially if someone wants to dispute the rating they achieved.
In the meantime I'm preparing for a staffing process to be posted in mid-December. There is the poster to be completed, an exam and a marking grid that needs to be into the regional HR advisor by mid-November. I've only just got this task started so I'm planning to get some of it done during the evenings in the hotel next week.
Time is flying by - is it any wonder I've just realized it's already mid-October? I feel pretty good - so far I'm keeping up with the deadlines. And even better, on the second day of our fundraising campaign we've reached 43% of our goal!!!
September is the start of the new performance cycle, with performance appraisals due by the end of October. Although I keep on top of these throughout the year I cannot complete my reviews until the supervisors meet as a group to calibrate the ratings. We finally had that meeting the first week of October.
October also brings our annual fundraising campaign for charity. It's pretty much a month long event with a number of events planned. I've been on the committee for 2 years now and despite our pre-planning it always seems that we scramble to get everything done on time. Kickoff was yesterday, it went well, but I have to say if it wasn't for one of the co-chairs it might not have been such a success. At the last minute there were a couple of committee members suddenly remembering things that needed to be done. Thankfully she'd anticipated the issues and had ensured all the little details were handled.
This year, my time is stretched even more as I'm off to our Calgary office for a week of training and then at the end of the month to Ottawa for still another week. As a result I have one week in between the two trips to complete my discussions and get the reports completed. It doesn't leave a lot of time, especially if someone wants to dispute the rating they achieved.
In the meantime I'm preparing for a staffing process to be posted in mid-December. There is the poster to be completed, an exam and a marking grid that needs to be into the regional HR advisor by mid-November. I've only just got this task started so I'm planning to get some of it done during the evenings in the hotel next week.
Time is flying by - is it any wonder I've just realized it's already mid-October? I feel pretty good - so far I'm keeping up with the deadlines. And even better, on the second day of our fundraising campaign we've reached 43% of our goal!!!
Wednesday, 12 October 2011
Family feud
Today is my youngest (and only) sister's birthday. We haven't spoken to one another for over three years. The last time we spent any time together was at my father's funeral in September 2008. Even then we probably said no more than a dozen words to each other.
We haven't gotten along for most of our lives, practically since birth. She was born less than eighteen months after me and we shared a bed and a room for many years. Even then we were very different, she was shy and quiet, I was more emotional, loud and and often demanding.
Mom had a story she told that highlighted the differences. Until I went to school she would ask us what we wanted for lunch. I would answer peanut butter and honey sandwiches. The first day I was away at school Mom asked the same question and my sister's answer was peanut butter and jam sandwiches.
Because we were so close in age, my Mom dressed us the same much of the time. I can recall the dresses we wore in our Grade 2 and Grade 1 pictures, mine had orange flowers, my sister had yellow flowers. As the elder of the two I hated it - I have no idea how my sister felt about it.
After we left home we eventually found ourselves in the same city and lived together in a rental home for a short period of time. I was still the wild child at this time, spending a lot of time partying, and worked simply to live. However, that time came to an end when I discovered I was pregnant with my oldest child. I was 21 years old.
My life changed dramatically at the birth of my child. I left the home I shared with my sister, had my daughter, moved to my hometown, and as events unfolded ended up moving to the city I now live in. Eventually my son was born here too.
Initially my sister was the special aunty, inviting my children to spend time with her in her home, lunch and dinner out and shopping for treats were the norm. They had a great time with her and I truly appreciated the break. It was around this time she met her first husband, he too had a young child around the same age as my daughter, and the two girls enjoyed each other's company.
However, she eventually divorced from her first husband and got involved with a man who was less than enthused with spending time with any of our family, let alone my children. We generally saw them at Christmas time but that was about it. They were together for at least ten years and her relationship with most family members became strained. She became vocally judgmental about the way I chose to raise my children to the point of making inappropriate (and unappreciated) comments in front of them.
With the end of her relationship she had the financial and emotional freedom to do as she wanted. Within the next few months she met, moved in with, and married her current husband. They enjoy travelling together and spending time with friends. They live within a half hour of our older brother but neither sibling has made any effort to spend time together.
We've done a 180, she's now the social butterfly and I am the homebody. We continue to look at life differently as we have all of our lives. I find it difficult to forgive her for the things she has said about me and my life to my children and family members. And I know that whatever it is that she holds against me continues based on comments she's made to our cousin the only family member with whom she remains in contact.
As time goes on, I have to wonder if we'll ever get past our differences. Somehow I don't think so - we can choose our friends but not our family. And if we weren't family I'm certain we wouldn't be friends.
We haven't gotten along for most of our lives, practically since birth. She was born less than eighteen months after me and we shared a bed and a room for many years. Even then we were very different, she was shy and quiet, I was more emotional, loud and and often demanding.
Mom had a story she told that highlighted the differences. Until I went to school she would ask us what we wanted for lunch. I would answer peanut butter and honey sandwiches. The first day I was away at school Mom asked the same question and my sister's answer was peanut butter and jam sandwiches.
Because we were so close in age, my Mom dressed us the same much of the time. I can recall the dresses we wore in our Grade 2 and Grade 1 pictures, mine had orange flowers, my sister had yellow flowers. As the elder of the two I hated it - I have no idea how my sister felt about it.
After we left home we eventually found ourselves in the same city and lived together in a rental home for a short period of time. I was still the wild child at this time, spending a lot of time partying, and worked simply to live. However, that time came to an end when I discovered I was pregnant with my oldest child. I was 21 years old.
My life changed dramatically at the birth of my child. I left the home I shared with my sister, had my daughter, moved to my hometown, and as events unfolded ended up moving to the city I now live in. Eventually my son was born here too.
Initially my sister was the special aunty, inviting my children to spend time with her in her home, lunch and dinner out and shopping for treats were the norm. They had a great time with her and I truly appreciated the break. It was around this time she met her first husband, he too had a young child around the same age as my daughter, and the two girls enjoyed each other's company.
However, she eventually divorced from her first husband and got involved with a man who was less than enthused with spending time with any of our family, let alone my children. We generally saw them at Christmas time but that was about it. They were together for at least ten years and her relationship with most family members became strained. She became vocally judgmental about the way I chose to raise my children to the point of making inappropriate (and unappreciated) comments in front of them.
With the end of her relationship she had the financial and emotional freedom to do as she wanted. Within the next few months she met, moved in with, and married her current husband. They enjoy travelling together and spending time with friends. They live within a half hour of our older brother but neither sibling has made any effort to spend time together.
We've done a 180, she's now the social butterfly and I am the homebody. We continue to look at life differently as we have all of our lives. I find it difficult to forgive her for the things she has said about me and my life to my children and family members. And I know that whatever it is that she holds against me continues based on comments she's made to our cousin the only family member with whom she remains in contact.
As time goes on, I have to wonder if we'll ever get past our differences. Somehow I don't think so - we can choose our friends but not our family. And if we weren't family I'm certain we wouldn't be friends.
Tuesday, 11 October 2011
A blog snob?
Since discovering the blogging world...I know, I know...I'm so far behind I've been lapped...anyway, I've been reading a lot of blogs and I've learned something about myself that I have decided to share.
Some blogs I read for their gardening tips, craft ideas, or recipes. Others I read because their stories make me laugh or cry, or touch my heart in some way. Most often I don't know the writers or their families. Often I follow or add a blog to my favorites because the writer draws me in to their life and makes me feel welcome.
Of course, I also seek out and follow cat blogs...my kitties like to hear the stories of othermasters and their slaves cats and their servants humans. This way I can live vicariously through someone who has more cats than I!
I've also added a couple of sites to help me with my writing. I write for myself mostly, as a way to journal my ideas and thoughts. But I also hope my posts can be thought provoking or at the very least, reasonably interesting. I spend time editing the posts (though reading back through some of them...not always so well. Cringe!)
I ensure I edit my posts because I know when I start reading a blog with several typos or mis-spelled words I have a tendency not to continue reading. I found this post at Quick Writing Tips expresses my thoughts far better than I could ever do.
Does that make me a blog snob?
Some blogs I read for their gardening tips, craft ideas, or recipes. Others I read because their stories make me laugh or cry, or touch my heart in some way. Most often I don't know the writers or their families. Often I follow or add a blog to my favorites because the writer draws me in to their life and makes me feel welcome.
Of course, I also seek out and follow cat blogs...my kitties like to hear the stories of other
I've also added a couple of sites to help me with my writing. I write for myself mostly, as a way to journal my ideas and thoughts. But I also hope my posts can be thought provoking or at the very least, reasonably interesting. I spend time editing the posts (though reading back through some of them...not always so well. Cringe!)
I ensure I edit my posts because I know when I start reading a blog with several typos or mis-spelled words I have a tendency not to continue reading. I found this post at Quick Writing Tips expresses my thoughts far better than I could ever do.
Does that make me a blog snob?
Monday, 10 October 2011
With gratitude
Today is Thanksgiving Day in Canada. When I was considering what I should write today, it seemed the only proper thing would be a list of all that I am thankful for in my life.
I can't do it...I'm certainly thankful in many ways but when I consider all the blessings in my life they all can attributed to certain events that occured in the past. It could be considered luck of the draw, predestination, or simply the favors of a deity but I believe my life is as good as it is because my ancestors choose to immigrate to Canada.
My paternal great-grandparents left Ireland in the 1860's as the result of the potato famine. They settled in Shawville, Quebec where my grandfather was born, married my grandmother and together they moved to Saskatchewan around 1900. On my mother's side, my great grandfather travelled from Scotland to Ontario Canada and became a landowner in 1880. Unfortunately I don't have the history of this side of the family to know where and how my grandparents met and came to live in this province.
However, it was the decisions, courage, and reslience of my great-grandparents to leave their homes, events which eventually brought my parents together ad allowed them to raise four children to live happy and productive lives. In other parts of the world, simply having healthy babies is a feat in itself, let alone managing to feed and care for the children through to adulthood. Where hunger and disease are daily companions, life is never simple.
I live in a country where public education and medical care are available to everyone at little or no cost. For those who are unable to provide for themselves we also have assistance for housing, food, and the other basic necessities of life. None of these are totally free when one considers the taxes we pay, but nonetheless our citizens have equal access to these services.
In Canada, we live without the fear of war or invasion. Although our troops have been involved in conflicts since World War I, in general, Canadians are most often involved in peacekeeping missions. Since the English met the French in Quebec there have been no major skirmishes on Canadian soil. Thankfully, the dangers of war are foreign to most Canadians.
We have our blemishes too but for the most part Canada is a great place to live, work and even retire. It may be cold at times - who am I kidding - it get's freaking cold! But if we didn't have the weather, what would we have to talk about?
All kidding aside, I will always be grateful to my great-grandparents for choosing Canada as their new home because I can't imagine my life anywhere else. Isn't that a little ironic? If they hadn't imagined their lives elsewhere I wouldn't have mine.
I can't do it...I'm certainly thankful in many ways but when I consider all the blessings in my life they all can attributed to certain events that occured in the past. It could be considered luck of the draw, predestination, or simply the favors of a deity but I believe my life is as good as it is because my ancestors choose to immigrate to Canada.
My paternal great-grandparents left Ireland in the 1860's as the result of the potato famine. They settled in Shawville, Quebec where my grandfather was born, married my grandmother and together they moved to Saskatchewan around 1900. On my mother's side, my great grandfather travelled from Scotland to Ontario Canada and became a landowner in 1880. Unfortunately I don't have the history of this side of the family to know where and how my grandparents met and came to live in this province.
However, it was the decisions, courage, and reslience of my great-grandparents to leave their homes, events which eventually brought my parents together ad allowed them to raise four children to live happy and productive lives. In other parts of the world, simply having healthy babies is a feat in itself, let alone managing to feed and care for the children through to adulthood. Where hunger and disease are daily companions, life is never simple.
I live in a country where public education and medical care are available to everyone at little or no cost. For those who are unable to provide for themselves we also have assistance for housing, food, and the other basic necessities of life. None of these are totally free when one considers the taxes we pay, but nonetheless our citizens have equal access to these services.
In Canada, we live without the fear of war or invasion. Although our troops have been involved in conflicts since World War I, in general, Canadians are most often involved in peacekeeping missions. Since the English met the French in Quebec there have been no major skirmishes on Canadian soil. Thankfully, the dangers of war are foreign to most Canadians.
We have our blemishes too but for the most part Canada is a great place to live, work and even retire. It may be cold at times - who am I kidding - it get's freaking cold! But if we didn't have the weather, what would we have to talk about?
All kidding aside, I will always be grateful to my great-grandparents for choosing Canada as their new home because I can't imagine my life anywhere else. Isn't that a little ironic? If they hadn't imagined their lives elsewhere I wouldn't have mine.
Sunday, 9 October 2011
Friday, 7 October 2011
Cranky
I'm feeling horribly frustrated, angry, and just plain p*ssed off. It all has to do with work and some of the stupid things that happen there. It's far too long a story to tell, and due to confidentiality issues I couldn't tell most of it anyway. Suffice to say I'm tired and ready for the long weekend. And getting called in to work today didn't improve my mood very much!
It rained today, the first time in weeks, and there was even a thunderstorm this evening. This fall has been lovely and warm though it is certainly getting dark early these days.
Saw the chiropractor again today, he readjusted my SI joints again and it felt great, no pain, and easy movement for...wait for it...about 5 minutes! I left his office, got into the car to drive to work, pushed in the clutch and there was the pain again! I have another appointment booked for next week so hopefully it lasts a little longer. I really can't complain as my back pain is lessened between the chiro and the massage. Moving about is easier, I can bend, roll over in bed, and sit and stand for longer periods of time.
I think I'll still use it as an excuse to get out of vacuuming this weekend.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
It rained today, the first time in weeks, and there was even a thunderstorm this evening. This fall has been lovely and warm though it is certainly getting dark early these days.
Saw the chiropractor again today, he readjusted my SI joints again and it felt great, no pain, and easy movement for...wait for it...about 5 minutes! I left his office, got into the car to drive to work, pushed in the clutch and there was the pain again! I have another appointment booked for next week so hopefully it lasts a little longer. I really can't complain as my back pain is lessened between the chiro and the massage. Moving about is easier, I can bend, roll over in bed, and sit and stand for longer periods of time.
I think I'll still use it as an excuse to get out of vacuuming this weekend.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Wednesday, 5 October 2011
Really, a sports injury?
I've spent the last couple of weeks battling back pain. It started one weekend after I vacuumed the entire house. I'm not sure if I caused the injury simply vacuuming or if it was carrying the vacuum down and then upstairs. However it happened, it hurt!
Fortunately, the pain wasn't too severe, mostly a 2 or 3 though occasionally a 5 or 6. I was able to do most everything, though getting dressed and driving my car (a standard) tended to aggravate the injury. After a few days the pain seemed to ease somewhat so I figured I was on the mend.
However, last Monday I realized it wasn't getting better when I drove to work and almost couldn't out of the car. I sat in the parking lot with my driver's door open thinking, I wonder how long it will take for someone to come see why I'm just sitting here. It took a few minutes and some willpower but I managed.
I thought a massage would be helpful, so booked with a therapist who operates out of a chiropractic clinic near my home. The massage worked out some of the kinks but the pain was worse. The therapist suggested that I visit the chiropractor for an adjustment, so I booked an appointment for Friday. After a few minutes discussion and a couple of tests, the doctor diagnosed Sacroiliac joint pain.
Then he proceeded to make an adjustment to my back; it took mere minutes and I was off the table with no pain whatsoever. I was totally amazed!
The doc warned me it wouldn't likely last, that my joints are stuck and need to learn to move again, so it would take a couple of sessions to get things fixed. I went home, puttered around for awhile feeling great, went downstairs to clean the cat litter, and as I got up from the floor the pain was back.
Today was bad, every time I got up from my chair, I had to push to stand up straight. It frightens me because my Aunt M had back problems for many years, and by the time of her death in her early eighties, she was nearly bent in half. I am determined not to allow this to happen in my case. I'll keep seeing the chiropractor and the massage therapist until I'm back to normal (well, as normal as I ever get!)
Sports injury...not likely. Housework did me in!
Fortunately, the pain wasn't too severe, mostly a 2 or 3 though occasionally a 5 or 6. I was able to do most everything, though getting dressed and driving my car (a standard) tended to aggravate the injury. After a few days the pain seemed to ease somewhat so I figured I was on the mend.
However, last Monday I realized it wasn't getting better when I drove to work and almost couldn't out of the car. I sat in the parking lot with my driver's door open thinking, I wonder how long it will take for someone to come see why I'm just sitting here. It took a few minutes and some willpower but I managed.
I thought a massage would be helpful, so booked with a therapist who operates out of a chiropractic clinic near my home. The massage worked out some of the kinks but the pain was worse. The therapist suggested that I visit the chiropractor for an adjustment, so I booked an appointment for Friday. After a few minutes discussion and a couple of tests, the doctor diagnosed Sacroiliac joint pain.
Then he proceeded to make an adjustment to my back; it took mere minutes and I was off the table with no pain whatsoever. I was totally amazed!
The doc warned me it wouldn't likely last, that my joints are stuck and need to learn to move again, so it would take a couple of sessions to get things fixed. I went home, puttered around for awhile feeling great, went downstairs to clean the cat litter, and as I got up from the floor the pain was back.
Today was bad, every time I got up from my chair, I had to push to stand up straight. It frightens me because my Aunt M had back problems for many years, and by the time of her death in her early eighties, she was nearly bent in half. I am determined not to allow this to happen in my case. I'll keep seeing the chiropractor and the massage therapist until I'm back to normal (well, as normal as I ever get!)
Sports injury...not likely. Housework did me in!
Tuesday, 4 October 2011
A first time for everything
My daughter called me at work today to tell me that Silas had gotten into the garbage today. I'd moved the bin a couple of months ago to the space under the sink because he'd knocked it over a couple of times to get to the empty cat food tins.
Apparently his success at getting into the upper cupboards (see yesterday's post), gave him confidence to try his luck at the lower cabinets. Or maybe he's been trying for awhile and I just didn't know.
In any event, I stopped at Wally world on the way home to pick up baby locks for the cabinet doors. D was kind enough to install it while I was getting my dinner ready.
As I'm typing I can hear sounds coming from the kitchen but so far he hasn't figured out how to open thechildproof cat-proof lock.
I could learn a lesson in perserverance from Silas! Here's another picture of my special boy.
Apparently his success at getting into the upper cupboards (see yesterday's post), gave him confidence to try his luck at the lower cabinets. Or maybe he's been trying for awhile and I just didn't know.
In any event, I stopped at Wally world on the way home to pick up baby locks for the cabinet doors. D was kind enough to install it while I was getting my dinner ready.
As I'm typing I can hear sounds coming from the kitchen but so far he hasn't figured out how to open the
I could learn a lesson in perserverance from Silas! Here's another picture of my special boy.
Monday, 3 October 2011
Where there's a will
There's definitely a way!
I know I've mentioned before Silas has a special diet because of his sensitive tummy. He really likes the other kitty food better - I just didn't realize how much.
I heard a cabinet door thump in the kitchen and went check out the noise. This is what I found (I keep the other cat's dishes in the cabinet above the deep fryer).
Can a cat look sheepish? I think he does!
And he won't be happy either, because I moved the dishes to another higher cabinet. Poor boy!
I know I've mentioned before Silas has a special diet because of his sensitive tummy. He really likes the other kitty food better - I just didn't realize how much.
I heard a cabinet door thump in the kitchen and went check out the noise. This is what I found (I keep the other cat's dishes in the cabinet above the deep fryer).
Can a cat look sheepish? I think he does!
And he won't be happy either, because I moved the dishes to another higher cabinet. Poor boy!
Sunday, 2 October 2011
Caution - opinion ahead
Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed were married this weekend after nearly 30 years together. At this point in their lives I have to wonder why? I suspect, it has more to do with ratings for their reality tv show, rather than a expression of their love or desire to be together. Did not the previous 30 years count for nothing?
Of course, I'm no expert on marriage, having never entered into a relationship of any significant length. I have observed, however, a number of marriages in my own family - perhaps that explains part of my aversion. My parents were married for nearly 50 years, for the most part it appeared unhappily. There were a number of reasons for that, but I think it primarily was the result of the age gap. He was 44, she only 26 when they married, at the urging of her parents.
Among my three siblings are six marriages, only one has married only once. I acknowledge and understand the reasons why these relationships didn't work but sometimes I wonder if marriage wasn't their way of making the relationship last a little longer.
I've also observed some very strong and amazing marriages. My cousin and his wife, met five weeks before getting engaged, married shortly thereafter and have been married for over 25 years. They're not the lovey-dovey type of couple, but complement each other, and it's obvious how much they care for one another. Good thing, because I don't think anyone else would put up with him!
Another couple I know were together for nearly 12 years before they married. While there is a large age gap, she's older than he is, the two are great together. They share the same interests, open their home to a diverse group of friends, and simply make marriage look like a lot of fun.
Many years ago I read a book "Why Women Shouldn't Marry". The author's premise was that women need marriage for only two things, sex and money. It's been my experience marriage is needed for neither. In fact, my opinion is that marriage ought to be about companionship, shared interests, and most of all friendship. I admire everyone who has found such a relationship.
I guess I've answered my own question as to why Gene and Shannon married.
NOTE: There is a more recent book entitled "Why Women Shouldn't Marry, Single by Choice" - this is not the book I refer to in this post.
Of course, I'm no expert on marriage, having never entered into a relationship of any significant length. I have observed, however, a number of marriages in my own family - perhaps that explains part of my aversion. My parents were married for nearly 50 years, for the most part it appeared unhappily. There were a number of reasons for that, but I think it primarily was the result of the age gap. He was 44, she only 26 when they married, at the urging of her parents.
Among my three siblings are six marriages, only one has married only once. I acknowledge and understand the reasons why these relationships didn't work but sometimes I wonder if marriage wasn't their way of making the relationship last a little longer.
I've also observed some very strong and amazing marriages. My cousin and his wife, met five weeks before getting engaged, married shortly thereafter and have been married for over 25 years. They're not the lovey-dovey type of couple, but complement each other, and it's obvious how much they care for one another. Good thing, because I don't think anyone else would put up with him!
Another couple I know were together for nearly 12 years before they married. While there is a large age gap, she's older than he is, the two are great together. They share the same interests, open their home to a diverse group of friends, and simply make marriage look like a lot of fun.
Many years ago I read a book "Why Women Shouldn't Marry". The author's premise was that women need marriage for only two things, sex and money. It's been my experience marriage is needed for neither. In fact, my opinion is that marriage ought to be about companionship, shared interests, and most of all friendship. I admire everyone who has found such a relationship.
I guess I've answered my own question as to why Gene and Shannon married.
NOTE: There is a more recent book entitled "Why Women Shouldn't Marry, Single by Choice" - this is not the book I refer to in this post.
Saturday, 1 October 2011
You just never know
This past week was designated "learning week" at our office. Some of the events planned for the week included a crossword puzzle contest, a few training sessions on different topics, and a number of opportunities to hear about "the day in the life" of various speakers. It's held in conjunction with the start of the performance cycle as the staff are asked to identify their learning needs for the upcoming year.
I was asked to be on the speakers to talk about my career path and what I do on daily basis. I must admit I accepted with some trepidation - what if no on signed up to hear what I had to say? I saw myself standing at the front of the room with my notes in one hand and an empty room before me. Potential embarassement wasn't a strong motivator!
In any event, the room wasn't empty, my talk went well, and I even was asked some questions so I felt I'd done okay. Shortly afterward, I was sitting at my desk clearing up e-mails and dealing with other tasks when I had a visit from a fellow who had sat in on my session. Now I know he meant well, but when he told me that "Now people will know how hard you worked to get where you are and realize it's not because of favortism", I was upset. It hurt to think that people hadn't seen the work I'd put in, how I taken on tasks no one else wanted (or would take) and the personal commitments I'd made by taken extra training.
For the rest of the week, this conversation really bothered me even when another person who attended the session told me my talk was inspirational. I just couldn't get that niggling thought out of my mind. It's finally gone now because when I got to work on Friday morning I found an e-mail in my in-box with the subject "you are great!". The e-mail was from our senior manager, who had received an e-mail from one of my new staff members. In her e-mail, J told how much she appreciates me as her supervisor, mentioning my enthusiasm, caring attitude, and helpfulness not only to her but to our team and members of other teams as well. H, our senior manager said in his e-mail that he couldn't express how happy he was to hear her comments. He reminded me one of the reasons I got the opportunity was my enthusiasm and passion for our organization and how he recalled I had expressed my desire to make the workplace a better place to be.
I think I'll put the naysayers back in their place; if they want to assume I got here by some form of nepotism or favoritism that's their problem not mine. I know better!
I was asked to be on the speakers to talk about my career path and what I do on daily basis. I must admit I accepted with some trepidation - what if no on signed up to hear what I had to say? I saw myself standing at the front of the room with my notes in one hand and an empty room before me. Potential embarassement wasn't a strong motivator!
In any event, the room wasn't empty, my talk went well, and I even was asked some questions so I felt I'd done okay. Shortly afterward, I was sitting at my desk clearing up e-mails and dealing with other tasks when I had a visit from a fellow who had sat in on my session. Now I know he meant well, but when he told me that "Now people will know how hard you worked to get where you are and realize it's not because of favortism", I was upset. It hurt to think that people hadn't seen the work I'd put in, how I taken on tasks no one else wanted (or would take) and the personal commitments I'd made by taken extra training.
For the rest of the week, this conversation really bothered me even when another person who attended the session told me my talk was inspirational. I just couldn't get that niggling thought out of my mind. It's finally gone now because when I got to work on Friday morning I found an e-mail in my in-box with the subject "you are great!". The e-mail was from our senior manager, who had received an e-mail from one of my new staff members. In her e-mail, J told how much she appreciates me as her supervisor, mentioning my enthusiasm, caring attitude, and helpfulness not only to her but to our team and members of other teams as well. H, our senior manager said in his e-mail that he couldn't express how happy he was to hear her comments. He reminded me one of the reasons I got the opportunity was my enthusiasm and passion for our organization and how he recalled I had expressed my desire to make the workplace a better place to be.
I think I'll put the naysayers back in their place; if they want to assume I got here by some form of nepotism or favoritism that's their problem not mine. I know better!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)