New Years Eve

Happy New Year Everyone
Wishing You All the Best in 2008!

Till Next Year, Cheers!
Jaime & Company:
Teddy, Haida, & Angel

Sunday Evening ...

I haven't posted since Friday ... the day I went shopping. It took a couple of days to recuperate. Today I cleaned the house ... so now I am tired, I am going to bed early as tomorrow I have to return that memory foam pillow that I bought. I was surprised it was as hard as a rock. Although, once you have your head on it for awhile it does kind of take the shape of your head, but it's too hard for me. I might as well sleep on a rock! So It's back to the store to return section. I don't think I will try another.

I have a $25.00 gift certificate that I got from the gang at work ... you guessed it, I still have it in my wallet. I forgot to give it to the cashier at the check out counter.

There was a lady in line behind me with three or four items, I told her she could go ahead of me, much to the chagrin of the cashier as she glared at me for letting this lady go ahead of me. The cashier had to push my stuff away from the till to let the lady in. I wanted to tell the cashier to tell her face that it was Christmas and to give the lady a break.

I like to watch the items come up on the cash register, but since she was putting the things through quicker than I could get the bags in my cart I only saw the total and forgot about the gift card until I was outside loading my stuff into the truck. I wouldn't dare go back to this cashier. I will go tomorrow when I buy Angel's birthday gift, I will use it then.

I don't like going shopping. I go if I have to get a particular item(s). I go in and then out again. I must admit I did get a couple of great deals on some things that I had wanted to buy anyway. I bought a toaster oven and a crock pot, it was a steal.

Have you ever seen the commercial of the lady shopping at IKEA? She has bags and bags of things she's purchased and when she looks at her bill she can't believe how much she paid. She is sure the cashier must of made a mistake. She gets out of the store and is yelling to her husband, who was patiently waiting in the car, "start the car, start the car", she gets in the car and begins hooting and hollering as they seemingly make a clean get away, not realizing they had hit the biggest IKEA sale, ever!

Tomorrow is New Years Eve, I am sure many will be out celebrating with family and friends or staying home. Me, and the dogs will spend a quiet evening at home, retire before midnight and sleep away 2007 and wake up in 2008!

Till next time, Happy New Year

Five Days to New Years and My Birthday

Hi there, It's me Angel.

My birthday is coming up on January 1, 2008, I will be three years old! Boy, I am glad to get out of those terrible twos ... I can be a bit yappy at times, at least that's what my mommy says. She sometimes threatens me by saying she will call Leader Post!!! I fold like an accordion and look at her with my beautiful brown eyes ... and I win her over, yet again.

I am hoping to get a new bed for my birthday ... I better run as I hear mommy coming down the hall.

Till next Time, Happy New Year!

Boxing Day

I didn't brave the malls today! Perhaps tomorrow, or not. I figure, by tomorrow the crowds will likely have thinned out a bit. You have probably figured it out by now that I don't like going shopping.

Yesterday, I was invited out for a Christmas supper. The food was terrific as was the company and to top it off, I was also blessed with a doggie bag. Today, I had leftovers ... very tasty indeed!

I had better get back into the swing of things as next week I will have to get up again at the crack of dawn to go to work and back into a busy schedule.

But for now, I am going to continue enjoying my vacation and keep doing as I please.

Till next Time, Happy New Year.

Merry Christmas

It's Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care. They had been worn a year and needed the air!!! LOL

When I got up this morning I opened the kitchen blinds and noticed my neighbor's light's were on in the living room. Yep, it's Christmas morning ... I can just imagine the kids ripping open their presents with glee ... (this was the only word which sprung to mind, it's Christmas, give me a break)LOL.

Christmas is a time for families and friends to get together to enjoy each other's company ... and then eat lots and lots of turkey .... laugh, play games and then eat some more. Thank goodness it only comes once a year.

Tomorrow is Boxing Day .... a time to buy things up to 70% off. This gives a new meaning to gift cards. Anyway, that's where you will find me ... rummaging through all the electronics at Best Buy looking for my Christmas present to myself!

Till next time, Merry Christmas!!!

Christmas Eve

The minutes are ticking ... Christmas Day is almost upon us. But are we ready? Wait, I still have to brave the crowds one last time today. Or do I dare venture out ... could I possibly wait for Boxing Day which is even worse for crowds, but even better for after Christmas sales! It will be a toss up ...

Till next time, Merry Christmas Everybody!

A Lovely R&R Sunday

Yesterday (Saturday), I had full intentions of going to the mall. But when I got outside and saw the packed snow on my inside driveway, I decided I had better get rid of it before taking my truck out of the garage. Now, my truck likely would have made it, but what if it didn't? Then I would be stuck, literally.

I started shoveling. But since I haven't been clearing the snow in this area it was packed about four inches deep. The plus side is that I could break it up and then carry the bigger pieces over to the side of the house, which I did. Needless to say, after and hour and a half shoveling I was too tired to venture out to the mall. I went back in the house, made myself a hot cup of java and started supper. I will go shopping on Monday, the day before Christmas along with all the other last minute shoppers.

Hence, today is my R&R day! I am getting use to not going to work everyday and will find it hard to get back into the routine. This time off has been like a prerequisite to retirement. I think I could get use to this lifestyle. Just think next year at this time I will doing just that adjusting to my retirement lifestyle. I can hardly wait!

Till Next time, Cheers!

List Minute Shoppers

Since I haven't gone shopping all week it looks like I will have to venture out today, maybe. Have you ever shopped at those liquidation stores? Some of them are ly user friendly, while others leave the items in a box on the floor. Picture it, bending down to rummage through a box to find a "deal". If it's on the floor I will walk on by and look for items that are displayed on a table.

Christmas is three days away and then Boxing Day. I love Boxing Day as I usually go out and find the best deals in electronics. I shop on this day for myself, it's my gift to me. What fun. This year I am looking for an HDTV. I have been watching the flyers for weeks now and reading up on the difference between LCD HDTV and Plasma TV's. In the simplest terms one is lighter and the other gets darker faster. I am not exactly sure if I understand all of the technical jargon but I have asked around and most people I know have an HDTV.

My regular TV is a 32" and I am thinking of getting a 42". I will need a different cable box from my service provider. I sure hope it's worth it in the end.

Well, I had better have breakfast before going out to brave the crowds.

Till next time, Cheers!

The First Offical Day of Winter

When I looked out of the window this morning I saw a beautiful sight, hore frost on the trees and my chain link fence. It seemed rather fitting for being the first day of winter. It's here to stay and not leaving any time soon.

We also had another snow fall last night. the dogs were delighted as they made their way down the deck stairs as they rushed to clear their little cow path. What fun they have frolicking in the snow!


till next time, Cheers!

Top of the Morning ...

Now wouldn't it be great to wake up to a scene like this every morning? Dream on! I tend to think of more places without snow given that when I look out the window the scene is much different her in Saskatchewan. The past few days hasn't yielded any new white stuff around here and the old stuff isn't going to disappear anytime soon.

I think I will venture out today to buy groceries and a few other items that I should stock up on. You know, just in case we get a blizzard and I can't get out of the house.

Remember the other day I only shoveled a path for the post man. Well the other half of the driveway still has the snow on it. I am thinking if I drive out real slow I may not get stuck as my truck is well able to pack down the rest of the snow on the driveway. However, that may not work, but it's worth a try. I think I will have to invest in some new snow shovels, you've seen the kind, they are shaped funny and called ergonomic.

I had better get a move on as the sun will soon be getting up and shining through a crack in the clouds. I don't want to risk running into the late Christmas shoppers at the mall today. Then again, I am not a 100% sure I will actually go out this morning. I better have breakfast first. Oh I almost forgot, I am out of eggs, hash browns, and too many other things too numerous to mention. Well, the percentage has just gone down to 50% chance of me going to the mall today, who knows I may find a bargain or two!

Till next time, Cheers!

The Life of Riley

Yep, I am enjoying the "Life of Riley." Do you recall that expression? It's from the 50's. There use to be a TV show called by the same name. If memory serves me correctly, it was about a guy who loved laying in his hammock all day doing nothing.

His wife was inside the house completing her domestic chores and bringing Riley his drinks and snacks. I think he was retired. Sometimes Riley would talk over the fence to his neighbor who was cutting the grass and tell him that he had to cut his grass too, but would do it later. Consequently, the wife ended up cutting the grass. I wonder what made me stumble down memory lane and recall the above.

I am so use to being busy that doing less than nothing has been something for me to get use to. I know that when I retire I will definitely be doing something with my time. I like routine as do the dogs and I will likely get into one. The only difference being that my routine will not be driven by an alarm clock. I will set my own pace and routine for tasks and projects.

I was thinking the other day about this very thing. Since I still work full time, there is little time for me to get into the full maintenance my yard and house require. They are both too big for me. I would love to keep a manicured lawn and meet the Good Housekeeping Standard for the inside of my house! I do manage, as you know, to make lists so I don't forget that the furnace filter needs to be changed more than twice a year.

But I digress. I am enjoying the "Life of Riley" this Christmas vacation. I am just about finished watching CSI Miami Season Five on DVD. There isn't too much on TV these days as the writer's strike is still in full swing. I am glad I have most of my favorite shows on DVD to watch anytime I want to.

Years ago I wondered why anyone would want to buy a movie they have already seen. I have discovered the secret. People forget. I too, forget how the show ended. I may remember bits and pieces of an episode but usually forget who committed the crime.

Well, I have one more disc to watch from CSI Miami. I am looking forward to CSI Miami Season Six in 2008, given I haven't seen all of the episodes this year. I had best sign off as there is nothing on TV tonight that I am interested in.

Till next time,Cheers!

Thoughts on New Year Resolutions

Seven days till Christmas and then New Years and all the hoopla that goes with that celebration. What springs to mind is the practice of New Year Resolutions ...

Personally, I don't have any this year, nor did I have any last year or the year before. Some people faithfully make resolutions every year.

I decided to Google "New Year Resolutions" and found the following article. It doesn't quote any particular source to qualify its statements, but nonetheless I thought it worthwhile quoting here. My source is Wikipedia.

New Year's resolution
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A New Year's Resolution is a commitment that an individual makes to a project or a habit, often a lifestyle change that is generally interpreted as advantageous. The name comes from the fact that these commitments normally go into effect on New Year's Day and remain until the set goal has been achieved, although many resolutions go unachieved and are often broken fairly shortly after they are set.

Many New Year resolutions in the Western world involve maintaining peak vitality, physical fitness, or appearance. For example, one person's goal might be to reduce or to eliminate intake of alcohol, tobacco, or recreational drugs. The most common new year's resolution is weight loss. A student may make a resolution to stay focused in class or to complete all of his assignments. Resolutions to eat sensibly or increase exercise are also quite common.

More socio-centric examples include resolutions to donate to the poor more often, to become more assertive, or to become more economically or environmentally responsible. People may act similarly during the Christian fasting period of Lent, though the motive behind this holiday is more of sacrifice than of responsibility.

The new year resolution is one example of the rolling forecast-method of planning. According to this method, plans are established at regular short or medium-term time intervals, when only a rough long-term plan exists.


Well, what are your thoughts? Planning to commit to a New Year's resolution this year? If so, congratulations and more power to you to follow through for more than a week or two. Me, well I already stated that I don't plan on making any resolutions this year or any other year for that matter. But if I where to make a resolution or two it would be not too work so hard the last year of work and plan on spending more time getting ready for the next phase of my life, retirement.

Till next time, Cheers!

The Aftermath

This morning when I looked out of the window I noticed my driveway was completely covered, not with a skiff of snow but at least two inches of freshly fallen snow on top of the two inches of packed snow.

There were foot prints leading to my mailbox. I assumed they belonged to the paper boy who delivered the Christmas flyers and Sunday paper yesterday. Momentarily, I felt bad for the kid having to laboriously make his way to reach my mailbox. Then I remembered he usually has his i pod stuck in his ear and totally oblivious to what's happening around him as he mechanically stuffs the flyers into my mailbox.

My dogs usually bark at him each and every time he comes up the driveway. Once I called to him to apologize for my barking dogs. He looked up at me and smiled as he pulled out his earphone and said, "That's okay, I don't really hear them anyway". He stuck his earphone back in and trudged on to the next house.

I thought of the mailman and knew that he doesn't have to deliver my mail if the path isn't cleared. This motivated me immediately to make him proud of me and thankful that I cared enough to make his job easier! If the truth be known, I want my mail and not have to go downtown to pick it up at the post office!

Since my property has a chain link fence and a gate across the driveway my mailbox is located outside of the fenced area. I keep my gate locked at all times. This keeps my dogs from bolting out the door and running all over the neighborhood.

I finally made my way outside with shovel in hand and started shoveling. I cleared a little cow path from my mailbox, down the driveway and the sidewalk in front of my house. Since I am no longer twenty and could have shoveled every body's driveway on the block, I only managed a partial job. I have completed my good deed for the day!I do plan on going out again to finish the remainder of the driveway. Maybe.

I haven't considered the driveway inside the fence, that's the dogs area and they pack it down pretty good when they go out to play. I usually do not have a problem driving my truck out of the garage since I have Micheline Ice snow tires!

I have Christmas music playing in the back ground. I think I will make another fresh cup of java, and read a favorite mystery in front of my fireplace. Well, it's a pretend fireplace. It's a CD of wood burning logs displayed on my TV screen. It looks realistic and inviting especially after shoveling snow. Just think, I don't have to haul out hot ashes, I just click the remote and presto the fire comes up with all the sounds of a crackling fire burning logs. There is something to be said for tradition!

Till next time, Cheers!

A Day of Reflection

When I got up this morning, I looked out of my window and behold a fresh blanket of snow had fallen during the night. It's still snowing ever so lightly.

I stood in my warm house with my birds chirping and my dogs barking thinking to myself there is no place like home!

I thought about my trip to Hawaii many years ago. It looked very much like the picture on this blog. Would I trade settings? In a heartbeat! I do enjoy the warmer weather as opposed to the cold winters we have in Saskatchewan.

The next seventeen days are my time for rest and relaxation; I can do whatever I want, when I want. I no longer have the pull of expectations and demands with the exception of my dogs wants and needs. It's interesting though, for some strange reason it feels like a prelude to retirement.

Well it's time for a "want", I am going to make my self another fresh cup of java. I do wish I could teach my shepherd how to make coffee. She's tall enough to reach the counter. Whereas, my Sheltie is so high strung she would end up trying to round up the coffee beans she spilled on the floor. My toy poodle, well he could care less or give a rip, he's probably snoozing in his basket.

Till next time, Cheers!

A New Day ...

Yesterday was my last day of work at my current position; I am now in my Christmas vacation mode. Since I no longer have to rush to be any where or keep appointments, write reports, or see any more clients, I don't have to hurry, at least during my vacation.

Last night I attended our unit Christmas party. What fun! I was surprised when they gave me a card,(not an e card), an actual paper card, not Hallmark, nonetheless, I held it and read what everyone wrote to me. Let me tell you, they had another surprise for me, a Wal-Mart gift card! I love Wal-Mart, I shop there all the time. Thanks guys!!!

The party was great fun as we ate, played games like Slang Teasers and What's yours? What a hoot. Both games entailed guessing the answers ... the process itself was a hoot! We laughed so hard our sides ached and those of us over 50 peed when we laughed. Not that anyone admitted the latter, but I am sure some of us had a wee bit of a warm feeling from laughing almost non stop. Most of us left after mid-night. When I got home the dogs met me at the door, actually they all but mowed me over to get outside and yes, you guessed it, to pee.

I almost forgot when I arrived at the party and coming up the walk the host asked me if I brought a kitty cat with me, Jokingly,I said, "Yes", I turned around and called the kitty, "come on kitty" She bounded up the stairs into the house like she owned the place. She was a beautiful Calico kitty, probably a year old. She made her way around the room and the host's cat, Tigger was not impressed, let me tell you. The new kitty couldn't care less as she worked the room like a pro and provided the live entertainment for the evening.

This morning I dragged myself out of bed, made my way to the kitchen, let the dogs out, turned on the lights for my birds and they started chirping like they do every morning. I then made coffee, toast and poured a glass of freshly refrigerated orange juice. (I bet you thought I was going to say freshly squeezed oranges). I grabbed the Christmas flyers to look at the sales.

So today has been a rather slow day for me. I am trying to recoup from lack of sleep and being out late. When I was in my twenties being out after mid-night was no big deal. But now, well it's a different story.

I made a roast for supper today and my dogs are eagerly waiting for me to finish so they can eat, but I thought I would first make a quick entry for today.

Till next time, Cheers.

Final Day

I suspected that it would be a very busy week for me. I was not disappointed. Today I will wrap up all the loose ends and move my things into my new office which happens to be located across the hall from where I am now. I am hoping this is my last move until I retire. I will no longer be responsible for case work as I am now; I will be a Resource Development Trainer for foster parents. Over the years I have come in as a guest speaker for the foster parent training sessions. I enjoyed it immensely and now I get to do it full time. I will tell you more about the program as time goes on.

Speaking of next year, it's literally just around the corner 2008! where has all the time gone? Only yesterday, it was 1957 and I was nine years old! But I digress.

Yesterday we had out unit gift exchange. what fun, we all got gifts that warmed our hearts. Tonight, after work we will be heading over to one of my colleagues homes to celebrate Christmas, eat lots of food and play games, which reminds me I better not forget to bring what I had written on the list. I need to make a note to myself.

Till next time, Cheers!

One More day ...

It was the night before Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care. they had been worn a year and needed the air!!! LOL just a wee bit of Christmas humor this morning.

This morning when I let the dogs out I noticed a fresh blanket of white snow gracing the deck and the back yard. What a beautiful site. The dogs quickly made their way into the back yard carving out their little cow path. They love the snow ... except Teddy, he runs out and pees real quick and back into the house, the other two well that's a different story; they love running around and jumping on the deck and then back down again and into the back yard. What a life, eating, sleeping, running in the yard and then back to sleeping, eating, and running in the back yard!

Today we are having our gift exchange at work. This should be fun. I like surprises.

Tomorrow, Friday, is my last day of work before my Christmas vacation.Yippee! However, I still have a few loose ends to tidy up before the end of the day. Then after work we are going to have our unit get together. I am looking forward to it as we usually have lots of fun together.

Till next time, Cheers!

Monday Morning ...

The countdown is on ... at least for my Christmas vacation. Only five more days or shall I say four more sleeps! I am looking forward to my time off especially this time of year. I am sure you have noted what part of the world, country, province I live in ... yep it gets cold here and sometimes too much snow! I remember one Christmas, can't remember the year, we had a brown Christmas. What a treat that was ... not to have to shovel any snow for most of December!!!

I must run and get ready for work as I don't want to be tardy!

Till next time, Cheers!

Sunday Morning

Good Morning,

It would seem that today is just another weekend day, but not so, we are well into the Christmas Season and frantically running around looking for ... well you know what you are looking for ... don't you?

The other day I was talking to a friend at work. She told me she does all her Christmas shopping online. She says it beats the crowds, and rushing from place to place. She excitedly told me that from the comfort of her home she sits in front of her computer and with the click of the mouse, she can choose her gifts and in a few days they arrive at her door.

Now, I am sure there is a downside to this mode of shopping. What about the last minute gift, the person whom you forgot to buy for and just happened to remember when they called asking for your color. Oops,I wonder if there is express delivery for the same afternoon?

Call me old fashioned, but I like to hear the Christmas music in the stores, the grabbing, pushing and yelling "I had that first" as you tell the person "Look over there, isn't that Robert Redford"? Then you run to the nearest cashier with your prize, only to discover it's the wrong size!!! You get the picture don't you.

How about shopping online on Boxing Day, now that is something I could go for in the comfort of my own home!

Well it's time for my first cup of java for the day.

Until next time, cheers

Seventeen Days Before Christmas

Only five days till the twelve days before Christmas arrive. Remember when we were kids we would ask mom, "how many more sleeps before Santa comes?"

Today, I have to brave the cold, crowds, and slippery roads to make my way to the mall to buy a few gifts. Next weekend, I plan on buying last minute things for Christmas dinner and the holidays.

Next Friday, (December 14), is my last day of work for this year. I am taking a Christmas vacation for the first time in a very long time. On January 2, 2008 when I go back to work, I will be working in a different program area. I will say more about that in the New Year.

Till next time, cheers.

TGIF

I am not sure what it is but for some reason this week seemed to just drag by ... and I am dead tired and it's only 4:30 a.m. this Friday morning! I am not usually up this early, but the dogs got me up to let them out earlier than usual. They went back to bed and I meandered over to the computer to see who else was up,no one, surprise, surprise.

I feel like that little puppy on the picture, just drained of all my energy, just hitting the keys is an effort. Why not go back to bed? I won't want to get up in an hour or so to get ready for work.

This has been quite the week hasn't it? What a season this is turning out to be for some of the folks in Omaha Nebraska. The innocent people who were gunned down for no apparent reason except that they were in the line of fire.

There were many heroic employees who sprang into action immediately to get not only themselves out of the way but the customers in their stores by ushering them into a small back room. The stories are just starting to come out about others that took action to ensure the safety of some of the people around them.

The gunman's last act was to shoot himself. Apparently, this is what he had in mind in the first place, suicide, with a sinister twist, he wanted to take others with him "... so he would be famous." think of all the families that have lost loved ones as a result of this rampage, their lives have been turned upside down during this Christmas season.

All we can do is remember them in our prayers and that they find the strength to carry on with their lives which is most difficult to do. My thoughts are with them today.

Canada is no different, On Dec. 6, 1989, 14 young, bright, ambitious students at l'École Polytechnique de Montreal were murdered by a hate-filled gunman.”

The difference in motivation between these two incidents is that the first gunman wanted to be remembered before committing suicide and the other gunman specifically targeted women.

When I started out writing today's blog I had no intention of talking about the shootings above. We really can't get away from what is happening not only around us but in the world today. It make one think whether there will ever be peace on earth and good will to all.

I don't really want to end on a bad note here so here is a suggestion: today when you go about your business be a little extra kind to those around you and make a difference in someone's life. One act of kindness can go a long way believe me, I know.

Till next time, cheers.

Laughter, Respect, Kindness, Ingrediants for a successful work environment ...

I was out with friends last night. We had a great time talking about the way things were, are, and likely going to be in the future. What fun. We need to laugh more and be less serious about our lives. I am not talking about being irresponsible but rather, learning to find the humor in things and people around us.

The work unit I am currently in is like that ... we have lots of fun and can laugh with each other and find the humour around us and then laugh about it. Our work is serious enough which keeps us very busy, but we never seem to forget to laugh.

It's a great place to work, in fact, it's the best place and greatest people I have worked with in my entire career. My boss is a very gracious, caring, kind, and accepting, respectful individual. She is self-confident, knows who she is and how to bring the best out in people. In our unit we work together as a team and have a mutual respect for one another. I have been truly blessed to have been afforded the opportunity to work with such wonderful people.

The person I share an office with happens to be someone I knew and worked with a number of years ago. He will be retiring six months ahead of me. We respect one another, laugh a lot especially when we talk about "do you remember how things were when we started working in our jobs? We were in our 20's back then. We have over 60 years of work experience between us and wonder why we're not in charge of the entire department! Then we laugh about that ... I am glad I had the oppportunity to share an office with him especially since we are both in the last chapter of our careers and moving on to new adventures and new chapters in our retirement years.

The time is fleeting by here ... i have to get ready for yet another day of hard work and of course laughter.

Till next time, cheers!

Happy Birthday to Me

Finally, my 59th birthday has arrived and do you know what that means? I am one year closer to retirement and getting my senior's discounts. Yippee!

Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me, and many more to come.

Till next time, cheers!

Monday Morning

This is what I feel like this morning, tired. I dragged myself out of bed, but not before hitting the snooze button and pulling the covers over my head! You would think that after a three-day-weekend I would bounce out of bed at the first sound of my clock radio announcing the news, weather and that it's time for me to get out of bed.

Not so. I wanted to be in charge and decide if and when I would be getting up this morning. Ever have one of those mornings? What, every morning is like that for you? What is it about waking up on a Monday morning, especially in the winter time?

It could be that it has some thing to do with how light it is outside when we wake up. In the summer time, the sun gets up before we do, whereas now, she stays in bed and it's dark when we wake up.

Enough already, the clock is ticking and I must get ready for yet another exciting week of work, but I am getting ahead of myself, today is Monday and I still have to get up the rest of the days this week and look forward to only a two-day-weekend.

Tomorrow is Tuesday, December 4, 2007, do you know what day that is besides Tuesday? It's my Birthday. Now that is something worth getting up for or is it?

Till next time, cheers.

The Ivory and Gold Tablecloth

I read this story yesterday and decided to post it today. It's a very touching story about a "wee miracle" that touched the lives of many people:

The Ivory and Gold Tablecloth
By Howard C. Schade

At Christmas time, men and women everywhere gather in their churches to wonder anew at the greatest miracle the world has ever known. But the story I like best to recall was not a huge miracle -- not exactly.

It happened to a pastor who was very young. His church was very old. Once, long ago, it had flourished. Famous men had preached from its pulpit, prayed before its altar. Rich and poor alike had worshipped there and built it beautifully. Now, the good days had passed from the section of town where it stood. But the pastor and his young wife believed in their run-down church. They felt that with hard work and lots of faith they could get it in shape. Together they went to work.

But, late in December, a severe storm whipped through the river valley, and the worst blow fell on the church -- a huge chunk of rain-soaked plaster fell out of the inside wall just behind the altar. Sorrowfully the pastor and his wife swept away the mess, but they couldn't hide the ragged hole.

The pastor looked at it and had to remind himself quickly, "Thy will be done!" But his wife wept, "Christmas is only two days away!"

That afternoon the dispirited couple attended the auction held for the benefit of a youth group. The auctioneer opened a box and shook out of its folds a gloriously beautiful, very ornately sewn, gold and ivory lace tablecloth.

It was a magnificent item, nearly 15 feet long. But it, too, dated from a long vanished era. Who, today, had any use for such a thing? There were a few halfhearted bids. Then the pastor was seized with what he thought was a great idea. He bid it in for $6.50.

He carried the glorious gold and ivory lace cloth back to the church and very carefully put it up on the wall behind the altar. It completely hid the hole! And the extraordinary beauty of its shimmering handwork cast a fine, holiday glow over the chancel. It was a great triumph. Happily he went back to preparing his Christmas sermon.

Just before noon on the day of Christmas Eve, as the pastor was opening the church, he noticed a woman standing in the cold at the bus stop. "The bus won't be here for 40 minutes!" he called, and invited her into the church to get warm.

She told him that she had come from the city that morning to be interviewed for a job as governess to the children of one of the wealthy families in town but she had been turned down. A Jewish war refugee, her English was imperfect.

The woman sat down in a pew and chafed her hands and rested. After a while she dropped her head and prayed. She looked up and saw the great gold and ivory cloth. She rose suddenly and walked up the steps of the chancel.

She looked at the beautiful tablecloth with remembering eyes. The pastor smiled and started to tell her about the storm damage, but she didn't seem to listen. She took up a fold of the cloth and lovingly rubbed it between her fingers, tears welled in her kind eyes. But they were happy tears of recognition. "It is mine!" she said. "It is my banquet cloth!" She lifted up a corner and showed the surprised pastor that there were initials monogrammed on it. "My husband had the cloth made especially for me in Brussels ! There could not be another like it."

For the next few minutes the woman and the pastor talked excitedly together. She explained that she was Viennese; that being Jews, she and her husband wanted to flee from the Nazis. They were advised to go separately. Her husband put her on a train for Switzerland . They planned that he would join her as soon as he could arrange to ship their household goods across the border. She never saw him again. Later she heard that he had died in a concentration camp. "I have always felt that it was my fault -- to leave without him," she said. "Perhaps these years of wandering have been my punishment!" The pastor tried to comfort her and urged her to take the beautiful cloth with her. But she refused saying, "no, no, the cloth has found it's way to you. You need it. It has a purpose here. I want you to have it. I am happy knowing you have it." She gazed lovingly up at the magnificent gold and ivory lace cloth, then quietly went away.

As the church began to fill on Christmas Eve, it was clear that the magnificent cloth was going to be a great success. It had been skillfully designed to look its best by candlelight. The glorious gold and ivory lace cloth actually glowed in the candlelight! It cast lovely fine designs on the walls and ceiling of the church. Everyone looked around in wonderment, and a tranquil ambiance was cast over all.

After the service, the pastor stood at the doorway. Many people told him that the church looked more beautiful than ever before. From the generous donations that were given, a few days later the pastor had the local jeweler who was also the clock-and-watch repairman come to repair the church chimes.

The repairman's gentle middle-aged face drew into a look of great astonishment! As if in a trance he walked right up to the beautiful cloth and looked intently! "It is strange," he said in his soft accent. "Many years ago my wife - God rest her -- and I owned such a cloth. My wife put it on the table" -- and here he gave a big smiled -- "for holidays and when the Rabbi came to dinner."

The pastor suddenly became very excited. He told the jeweler about the woman who had been in church to get warm, saw the cloth, and recognized it to be hers! The startled jeweler clutched the pastor's arm. "Can it be?" he said through desperate tears. Together the two got in touch with the family who had interviewed the woman for the governess position, got her address, then they both drove to the city.

The jeweler knocked on the heavy, weathered, door. As it opened, there stood his beloved wife. The many years of separation were immediately washed away by their blissfully tears, as they held each other in loving embraces, never to be parted again. True love seems to find a way. To all who hear this story, the joyful purpose of the storm was to knocked a hole in the wall of the church.

So Dear Ones, the next time something knocks a hole in your dreams, your goals - Just remember to have enough faith, enough belief in those dreams and goals, to lovingly and creatively hang your own brilliant lace cloth over the temporary mar. Then watch the miracles come.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
This story was originally written by Howard C. Schade for the December 1954 issue of Reader's Digest. It is a fitting way to get an early start on the upcoming Christmas season.

Sent to you as a courtesy of...

Your friends at AsAManThinketh.net
For a free eBook of James Allens classic:
http://www.AsAManThinketh.net

Saturday Musings

It’s a cold Saturday, December 1, 2007, morning. I certainly do not want to venture out today. However, I do need to take a quick trip to the bank which I could have done yesterday (Friday), but didn’t because it was too cold outside. The weather report for this area states that it’s going to be a very cold winter. Burrrrrrrrr. This is one of the reasons that I plan all my trips to and from the house as once I am home I like to stay at home.

Yesterday, I wrote about weekend lists so I think I will walk over to the fridge where I keep my list of things to do and start at the top: clean bird cages. I have three of them (1) 10 lovebirds live in a cage that is 3’Lx6’Hx2’W; I have 13 budgies in a 4’Lx6’Hx2’W; I custom built these cages and last but not least I have a lone budgie, Blue in a wire cage. Her partner recently died and she’s not accepting any new partners. Blue use to live in the main cage but I had to move her because the hen laying female, Sunny was too territorial and would fight with her and almost did her in. I took Blue out of the cage as her foot was bleeding quite a bit and I figured she wouldn’t make it through the night. Much to my surprise, four months later, she’s doing fine with the exception of her beloved partner who died a month ago. Blue use to have difficulty flying but since having her on her own she’s strengthened her flying muscles. Last weekend when I was cleaning Blue’s cage she few out of the cage and few around the house. This is the most I have seen her fly without crashing to the ground. She’s doing pretty good and seems to not mind being on her own. She spends a lot of time in front of her little mirror chirping at her reflection.

I will sell my birds before I retire given my plan to go RVing as a fulltimer. This past summer I ran an ad to sell all the birds lock stock and barrel. However, people seemingly do not want the responsiblity of caring for so many birds. I will try again in the spring and perhaps advertize them separately or as pairs.

I digress; I don’t like long lists because it takes longer to strike off the items. Therefore, my lists are relatively short and usually tailor made for the weekends. If I do venture out today, I no doubt will be bombarded by all the Christmas sales. I love listening to the Christmas music in the mall and the stores. It does put you into the mood. Sleigh bells ring are you listening ....?

Well, I need my cup of java for the day and should get going for now. Till next time. Cheers!

The Weekend List

Do you make "to do lists" for yourself? I do. If I don't, I tend to forget to complete tasks for that day or week. I think of them more as "reminders" than "to do lists". To do lists seem more like a command rather than just jogging my memory to not forget to accomplish tasks.

When at work, my DayTimer is more like a 'To Do' list, than a reminder. I have to keep appointments, write reports, see clients at specific places and times.

Whereas, at home my to do list is a wee bit more flexible, unless of course I am planning a dinner party for guests arriving at a designated time.

To do lists can afford us a certain satisfaction of accomplishment each time we strike off a completed task. I know I enjoy making the stroke through a task upon completion and then counting how many more I have left. Another plus is that you don't have to complete the tasks in order, like you do in a work day timer.

In case you are wondering, there is no dinner party planned for this weekend or anytime soon for that matter. This year for our unit Christmas party we are going to order in. I love the idea because I can just envision myself driving down the street in my truck with my favorite hot steaming chili on the seat beside me, when I have to I brake suddenly, and the chili dumps on the floor. You know what I am talking about, don't you?

Till next time, cheers.

Cold Snap

This morning I managed to wake up before the alarm. I dragged myself out of bed, let the dogs out and in under two minutes, you guessed it, it's cold outside. I had a shower, made some coffee, checked my email and wrote a few lines on my blog.

I don't mind winter, but I do mind the cold cold weather. My truck will likely take sometime to warm up so I had better do that in plenty of time. Good Morning America (GMA), is on in the back ground. They are talking about the Presidential debate ....

Yesterday, online looked at some Class C motor homes . In February 2008 one of our RV dealers is sponsoring a RV show for an entire week. Since the gas prices are steadily rising, it's going to be interesting to see what changes the RV manufactures made with regards to fuel economy. I plan to attend the show and explore what's new in the world of RVs.

Time is moving on and I had better switch gears and get ready for work. Tomorrow, (Friday) I am off and I am looking forward to sleeping in as this cold snap is not going to be over until the middle of next week.

Till next time, cheers.

Burrrrrrrrr, It's Cold Outside

I awoke this morning to hear the weather report: "... it's a cold one this morning", said the annoucer with glee, "with lots of new snow swirling around as it hits the road. So bundle up and get out of bed you sleepy head."

To me, this is a day should be spent curled up on the chesterfield with a good book and a roaring fire in the fireplace! Now, if I was retired that would be exactly what I would be doing today.

The reality is, I must brave the new fallen snow and the cold just like the mailman and head out the door. The garage door will barely be able to open because of the cold and my even colder truck will no doublt have a hard time turning over. I just remembered that I have a quarter of a tank of gas left. Not a good thing. I know I should have stopped at a gas station before coming home last night. The trouble is I hate stopping for gas as I have to get out and pump it myself.

This is one of the mornings it would be nice to have a man around to go out start the truck, shovel the driveway and bring my my morning cup of java.

Wait a minute, I better wake up here. It's me that has to all that which means I have to stop writing and get ready to face the day. Oh yeah today, another day of sitting at the workshop, I don't think I will be coming home at noon today. The doggies will have to make due.

Teddy refused to get out of bed this morning to go outside, so he's still snoring away. He's wearing his brand new sweater to keep him warm, as one blast of cold air at the door and he heads back to his bed.

Till next time, cheers!

I just arrived home, let the dogs out, shoveled my driveway, let the dogs back in, checked the mail, let the dogs out again, finished the driveway, let the dogs back in, I went around the back to shovel more snow, actually a little cow path for the dogs, and now I am back in the house making a cup of hot chocolate for myself so I can sit by the fire with a good book!

I am back to work tomorrow and later in the day I am going on a short road trip. This of course will depend on the weather as it's still snowing outside and the visibility is poor due to the high winds. You get the picture I am sure.

Till next time, Cheers!

Guilty or Not

What a great stamp …. Guilty, I copied this off of another blog as I liked it. The author of the blog wrote about all the things she now enjoys doing as a full time RVer. Please "click" on my title "Guilty or Not" and it will take you directly to her website. Enjoy!

I am in the midst of getting ready for work and have to run, I am GUILTY, of spending too much time at this already. Cheers and have a good day.

I am back. Today was another training day for me, only this time I am in my home town and was able to drive home. No doggies to the kennel as I am sure they are relieved. I didn't come home at noon as I usually do, so they had to hold it until I arrived home. Teddy, did his business in the sun room, which cleans up easily, so he didn't run out when I came home. The other two, well that's a different story, they raced past me and peed their little hearts out.

I find training sessions more taxing than work since we sit most of the day and move around only for breaks, lunch and home time. Today's session was interesting enough and seemed to fly by, so to speak. Tomorrow we're at training again and then on Wednesday and Thursday back to work and off on Friday. Yippee, another long weekend. Saturday is December 1, 2007, and before long it will be Christmas. A month from today is Boxing Day. I find that after the USA Thanksgiving Christmas seems to appear on the doorstep quickly.

My fur kids are waiting for supper and I too, am starved, a lunch veggie wrap doesn't go too far at least when one is sitting all day.

Till next time, cheers!

Sunday Morning Ramblings ...

Good Morning,

I slept in longer than usual this morning. I awoke from having several dreams seemingly all rolled into one. In one of the scenes I was in a big hotel walking down the corridor when I noticed a budgie to my right sitting on the floor and when I looked to my left I noticed a huge open area with all kinds of birds flying free. I wondered if this area would be closed in to avoid the birds from flying all over the hotel.

The scene changes and I see a huge dog wearing a camel colored coat. A lady waking beside the dog was also wearing an identical coat. I commented to her that it must be expensive to feed her dog. She smiled and kept on walking. Then I noticed her go to a bed that was standing in the hallway along with several other beds and she was searching for money that she had put under the blanket for safe keeping. I thought to myself that someone likely took the money after seeing her put it there. I wondered why the beds were in the hallway and not in individual rooms. I awoke.

When I started this blog, I commented under the heading: Who am I, that I pay attention to my dreams through dream work since 1985. There are many things that we do not work out in our waking state which then goes into our subconscious and often shows up in our dreams. Hence, each dream has a personal message. It's like getting a letter from our subconscious only it's written in symbols and we have to figure out what these symbols mean to us. We, the dreamers are the interpreter of our own dreams. Back in 1998 I came across one of the best and most informative dream sites on the web. Jane T. Anderson is a dream analyst and has written many excellent books on the subject. The following is a link to her website: Jane T. Anderson’s Dream Network (When you click on this link and get the 404 error message Click on the "clicking here" and it will take you directly to Jane Teresa's website. I am not sure why this is happening, I am trying to figure out why the link from my blog doesn't take you directly to her site.)

Jane Teresa has recently published another book: 101 Dream Interpretation Tips. She advertises this on her website. Enjoy!

*Please Note: On my sidebar under favorite sites I have created a direct link to Jane Teresa's site.

Remember when ...?

This picture reminded me of the days when I lived in the mountains, worked in a restaurant, and skied the rest of the time. There were a group of us that use to hang out and ski together. We had great fun. Those were the days when all you had to worry about was paying the rent and skiing. We seemed to be so carefree. Back then, I owned a 1966 VW (BUG) in mint condition. I just graduated from college and had no debts. By the time I retire at the end of 2008, I plan to be debt free again.

Seven years ago I sold everything, took a leave from work and moved to Texas. My plan was to find a retirement place where I could retire comfortably. Comfort to me means not having to shovel snow during the winter months and Texas seemed to fit the bill. All I owned was my truck and a couple of years later Teddy joined me. I felt much better not having anything to tie me down. This is why RVing appealed to me.

When it comes right down to it, we really do not need a lot of "things" to make us happy. I believe that happiness is a state of being ... it comes from within, and not from without. I am not against having things, not at all, but when it comes right down to it, how much do we really need to be happy?

When I look around my house I think to myself if I had something smaller it wouldn’t take long to clean and would afford me more time to reflect on life and spend with my dogs. In fact right now, I am supposed to be cleaning out my bird cages, a weekly ritual, but I decided to come into my nicely cleaned out home office and reflect.

Well that's enough reflecting for now, got to run and tend to my responsibilities for yet another week.

Till next time.

Look at all the White Stuff ...

I am enjoying a three day weekend, how grand? It's snowing outside and I am inside looking out my window watching the soft white fluffy stuff gracing itself upon my driveway. Driveway? What a thought, I will need to go out at some point with shovel in hand and move all that white stuff to the side so I can get out of the garage come Monday morning. But I am getting ahead of myself. Yep, winter is here to stay and Christmas around the corner.

I am finally cleaning out my home office and finding all kinds of things I thought I had lost or sold at my garage sale last summer. Since I am in here I decided to "rip" some of my CD's on to the computer so that I can play them randomly with out having to insert them in the disk drive.

Well it's almost bedtime and would you believe it took me all day to re-organize my office? What a relief. I have been planning this project for weeks now and decided today was the day and I would stay with it not matter what. I am glad I did. It's an accomplishment. Tomorrow I will tackle the bird cages, yet again, it's a weekly job usually reserved for the weekend.

Yesterday, my fur kids spent the day at the groomers for their seasonal hair cuts. (I take the three of them together when the seasons change). Teddy, my Toy Poodle, is groomed more often. When I picked them up they smelled good, looked great and were very anxious to get into the truck and head for home. I have had the same groomer for all of them for almost seven years. She's great, loves animals and does a terrific job. I have recommended her to a few of my friends over the years. It's important to me that my dogs are treated kindly.

Till next time!

Winter Has Arrived

On Wednesday when our first blanket of snow fell out of the sky, it was followed by a couple of days of high winds and then more snow on Friday night. I noticed my neighbours on Saturday morning shoveling their driveways. Since my driveway also got snow I too was facing the same task.

However, later on in the day my younger brother came over to the house wanting a favor. Since I too needed a favor, I made a deal with him, I would comply with his request if he shoveled my driveway! He wasn't too eager but knew that if he didn't I wouldn't come through on my end of the deal. I have a 100 foot driveway divided by a chain link gate. You guess it, he shoveled only on the inside of the gate. I told him that I wanted him to shovel the entire driveway. He didn't think there was much snow in that area. I responded by telling him that it wouldn't take him long to finish. Reluctantly, he went outside and completed the task. Now it's not like he had to shovel two feet of snow, not even an inch.

Now it was my turn to come through for him. He wanted a hair cut. (In another lifetime, I was a hairstylist). He usually hits me up for a free hair cut. He reminded me that the last time I cut his hair was in August. When I looked at his hair I asked him if he cut it since then. He admitted he had but has a hard time seeing the back. Actually it looked like he'd used the hedge clippers on the front, sides and the back.

Now picture this: what if I only cut half of his hair and told him that I thought the other side was short enough and didn't need cutting. What do you think he would have said to me? Exactly, case in point. We both needed the jobs to be completed.

We had freezing rain last night and this morning the roads are rather icy. Not my favorite winter conditions but it comes with the territory. We are expecting more snow in the next few days which will likely put us in the thick of things. My neighbour across the road offered to blow out my driveway should we get a blizzard.
But then again, I can always call up my brother and offer to give him a buzz cut in exchange for shoveling out the driveway. Yeah right!

Today, I will mostly take it easy and maybe complete a couple of tasks before embarking on another busy work week. On Monday, I am in the office and on Tuesday-Thursday I am scheduled for more training sessions. I don't have to travel this time as the sessions are in town. On Friday, I am off, yippee! I can use some time off.

Since I haven't had breakfast yet, or my first cup of coffee for the day, I had better sign off for now. Till next time.

A Fresh Blanket of Snow Outside My Door

I opened the door this morning to let the dogs out. Haida, immediately enticed Angel to play, whereas, Teddy tip toed onto the deck looked towards the back yard and thought to himself,"Yippee, I can pee right here since the back yard is now on the deck."

Since I got up later than usual this morning this is going to be short. The radio announcer stated the roads are slippery this morning. My first though,"I am so glad that I was out of town last week instead of this week." On that note, I better run and get ready for work since I will likely have to crawl on the icy roads this morning along with the rest of the cars and trucks.

I just got home from a busy day at work. When I left the house this morning the traffic was unbelievable. I think everybody had the same idea to wait until the absolute last minute to drive to work hoping that the snow will have melted. I try to leave myself enough room between the car in front of me especially when the road conditions are slippery. When I pulled into the parking lot, I noticed that the parking lot was not even half full after 8:00 a.m. Perhaps others had the same idea to wait it out.

Well, it's supper time and the dogs are pacing back and forth wondering what's for supper. Till next time.

Cheers to a Short Work Week

You will note that my morning picture looks like an evening picture. The reason I chose it was because the days are getting shorter and I seem go to work in the dark and come home in the dark.

In my part of the world, it's 6:00 a.m. and still dark outside. Good Morning America is on TV and I am sitting here at my computer typing away, at least for a few minutes before getting ready for a short work week.

Even though the week is short is does not mean that my work load is any less especially since I was away at training all last week. Some how when someone covers your work, it's just that a cover, addressing only the immediate emergencies. When I return I will be told about what happened, what the person did and best of all what I need to do now to finish handling the situation. However, right now I need to sign off and get ready for work and face the day of surprises resulting from my cover's involvement. I am grateful that people are covers when I am away. It does work both ways though when they are away I too am a cover for them!

The Day After ...

Ever wonder about the day after the day before? We usually don't think about the day after while we are in the present. Consider this: Today is the day after...

Yesterday, was Remembrance Day, as I see it, everyday should be "Remembrance Day". It's true though if it's not right in front of us we tend to not give it too much thought unless of course you watch the six o'clock news. We can't help but be reminded of the loss of many lives not only in the war, but on the streets of our cities where people are being gunned down and some of them are innocent victims killed by a stray bullet. The number of law enforcement officers (city Police, RCMP, State Troopers,) officers gunned down for doing their jobs and keeping the rest of us safe has risen significantly over the years.

The people that do remember are those that have lost loved ones. They remember everyday and every night the people they have lost. It never goes away. they always remember, even the day after they still remember.

Happy Birthday Teddy

Today is Teddy's sixth birthday. He will be celebrating with his two buds: Angel and Haida.

Teddy's birthday falls on Remembrance Day, Angel's on New Years Day and Haida's on April Fools Day! How uncanny, that each of their birthdays are on Special Days!

I chose Teddy when he was only three weeks old and brought him home when he was ten weeks. I trained Teddy to be my Therapy Dog when I worked as a family therapist. Teddy was a hit with not only the kids but adults as well. When clients arrived, I sent him to the reception area and he would bring them back to my office for their session. The clients related well to Teddy as he was always very excited and happy to see them. Teddy was also a mascot in one of the kids' group.

Teddy took early retirement and travelled with me to work in Texas. He loved the hot weather and no more snow! He quickly got to know two new fur kids in Texas: Flaco and Peppi (Teddy's girlfriend. The three of them had great fun playing together especially when I had to go on the road.

When we returned to Canada I went back to work as a therapist and Teddy joined me for awhile until he retired. I then decided to get Teddy a companion, a German Shepherd named Haida. Teddy made sure that she let Haida know that he was boss if the house. In January 2006, a Shetland Sheep Dog whom I named Angel completed our little family.

Happy Birthday Teddy.... and may you have many more with us!

Remembrance Day

IN FLANDERS FIELDS
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
John McCrae
His poem speaks of Flanders fields, but the subject is universal – the fear

Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae
Lieutenant-Colonel McCrae was born on 30 November 1872 in Guelph, Ontario. At age 14, he joined the Highfield Cadet Corps and, three years later, enlisted in the Militia field battery. While attending the University of Toronto Medical School, he was a member of the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada.

With Britain declaring war on Germany on 4 August 1914, Canada’s involvement was automatic. John McCrae was among the first wave of Canadians who enlisted to serve and he was appointed as brigade surgeon to the First Brigade of the Canadian Forces Artillery.

In April 1915, John McCrae was stationed near Ypres, Belgium, the area traditionally called Flanders. It was there, during the Second Battle of Ypres, that some of the fiercest fighting of the First World War occurred. Working from a dressing station on the banks of the Yser Canal, dressing hundreds
of wounded soldiers from wave after wave of relentless enemy attack, he observed how “we are weary in body and wearier in mind. The general impression in my mind is of a nightmare.”

In May, 1915, on the day following the death of fellow soldier Lt Alexis Helmer of Ottawa, John McCrae wrote his now famous work, an expression of his anguish over the loss of his friend and a reflection of his surroundings – wild Poppies growing amid simple wooden crosses marking makeshift graves. These 15 lines, written in 20 minutes, captured an exact description of the sights and sounds of the area around him.

Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae left Ypres with these memorable few lines scrawled on a scrap of paper. His words were a poem which started, “In Flanders fields the poppies blow…” Little did he know then that these 15 lines would become enshrined in the innermost thoughts and hearts of all soldiers who hear them. Through his words, the scarlet Poppy quickly became the symbol for soldiers who died in battle.

The poem was first published on 8 December 1915 in England, appearing in “Punch” magazine.

So many men and women have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Giving of ones life for another is he ultimate sacrifice a person can make. It stands to reason that we in turn remember them not only on this day, but every day that we enjoy the freedoms for which they died.

Lest WE Forget.

Home Sweet Home

This morning I awoke to the sounds of my chirping birds and the snoring of my dogs beside me on the bed ... home at last.

Since this is a weekend I am back into my routine of laundry, cleaning the cages, and playing with my dogs. I did notice the dogs have the sniffles, I am thinking it likely is kennel cough, they are vaccinated against it, and hopefully they will not get sick from it.

I am already thinking about all the work that awaits me when I return to work on Tuesday, then again, there is always work awaiting me whenever I arrive at work.

Moving on, I plan on rearranging my home office, the place I write this blog, as I can't see the top of my desk anymore. It's a sign for me that I need to reorganize and/or get rid of the things I no longer need. I have an invisible rule: if I haven't used it for six months, I need to rethink its value. If I haven't used it for the past year, it will go into the garage sale.

Would you believe I haven't had my first cup of coffee yet? Hard to believe isn't it? Therefore, I am signing off for now.

Friday: Day 5 of 5 TGIF

It's morning and soon I will be on the road home. YES!!! But first I need to get ready, pack, have breakfast, go the the last session, lunch, listen to closing remarks and then head out. This is my agenda and I plan to stick to it. I am listening to the Weather Channel to find out if there is any possibility of the white stuff coming my way on the road which I plan to travel. So far, so good, but then again when can you really trust the weatherman? Have you ever listened to the forecast for a sunny day and you head out only to find yourself in the middle of a down pour? I guess the idea is to be prepared at all times. Before leaving on this trip I did pack a flashlight, extra blanket and a little survival kit and of course my trusty cell phone. At least I can call for help and the Kennel to let them know I will be delayed. But I digress.

This morning I read a story on RV Now, a feed which I subscribe to and I thought I would share it with you this morning. RV NOW: RV Now Before It’s Too Late

Since the person he is talking about in the story is a social worker, same profession as mine (only I do not work in a hospital, instead I work in the child welfare field), it sparked my interested. I see that time is moving on and I am still typing. I will be back!

I made it home, picked up the dogs, started to unpack my things, fed the dogs, they are contentedly laying on the floor beside me. I am getting ready to put my feet up and watch one of my favorite shows Ghost Whisperer. I will write more tomorrow.

Thursday: Day 4 of 5

This morning when I awoke I walked over to the window and threw back the curtains. Since I am on the 8th floor my view is extensive. I saw a blanket of white stuff covering everything. Then I remembered, it's well into November and the white stuff does have a right to be here!

We're on our lunch break and I came to the window and noticed that magically the white stuff is disappearing. I hope it doesn't steal back during the night as tomorrow after the session it's home time and you know what that means: I am going to pick up my fur kids! I better head back down stairs it's 1:00 p.m.

Done for another day. Tomorrow, Friday, November 9, 2007 we start at 8:00 a.m. as we need to be done by 2:00 p.m. so the instructor can catch his plane. I know that I will be packed and ready to roll once we are done for the day. Hopefully, the weather will hold out until I get home and pick up my fur kids. I will be glad to get back home and into my routine. I am sure my dogs will feel the same way. This is the second time I had to take them to the kennel because of my out of town trip.

Next Tuesday, is the beginning of another busy week with a couple of day road trips. No need to panic doggies! I don't mind traveling but I do have my concerns about winter driving. It's interesting when I was in my twenties I didn't give winter driving a second thought as I headed out on a trip. But now, one snow flake and I am already thinking of canceling my road trip!

As you have noticed I have managed to blog everyday since being here. However, when at home I usually manage a weekend entry. Time is on my side when being away from home. I really don't have any responsibility here other than attending the daily sessions and reading some of the material. Whereas, at home there is so much more to do and so little time to do it in. This is why I am grateful to the occasional trip out of town to give me a bit of a break from my usual responsibilities.

I can't promise an entry tomorrow as I will be getting ready to check out before the session. I will likely resort back to my weekend entries.

Till next time.

Wednesday: Day 3 of 5

You have heard of the term,"let's not reinvent the wheel". Well if you look around, you can see that people are reinventing the wheel all the time by giving it a different label. For example, rollouts of "new" innovated ways of doing more with less seems to have a historical feel to it? If you have been working at the same place for more than six months you know what I am talking about.

When I registered for this training I was unable to get the same room for the entire week. When I arrived on Monday, I moved into the last available room. On Tuesday, I moved into the room I am in now. Today I will be moving to a room that I can stay in until I leave on Friday.

I feel like a transient with no fixed "room". I should have left my bags in the car and just slept in the lobby until my Wednesday room was ready! Since I am a problems solver, I could have applied for a temporary job and assist the hotel with their problem of room shortages. I could have asked other guests if they planned to stay the entire night or if they weren't using the second bed in their rooms would they would like to rent it out to another guest. Then perhaps I would have been able to move into my own room for the week. Now there is a catch, my Wednesday room has two beds and being the problem solver I am, the sign on my door reads "occupied", so that no one else will try to reinvent the wheel so to speak. Don't even think about knocking on my door!

I have to pack, well just put away my laptop, pull out my jeans and replace them in the suitcase with my dress pants and move on to my next adventure.

Tuesday: Day 2 of 5

I love this picture. I first saw it on one of the GSD forums. I loved it and thought I would share it with you this morning. You guessed it, I miss my dogs. When I awoke this morning, no dogs on my bed, to step over as I make my way in the dark to the bathroom, or to let outside and best of all, no standing by the back door in my bathrobe with my pockets full of treats waiting for the dogs to come back in. Nothing, just silence!

We are very much creatures of habit. In a couple of days I will be use to a new routine while I am away from home. I get up, get ready for the day, go down stairs, have breakfast and then make my way to the lecture hall. I am already tired thinking about sitting all day listening to someone talk. Wait a minute, soon it will be me up there lecturing to a group of people, I wonder if they will be thinking the same thing about me? I am here to learn how to deliver material to people by making it interesting and appealing so they will be motivated to integrate it into their daily lives to make their jobs easier. I am getting ahead of myself. I will explain more later.

We are so use to our own routine that any changes are not easily made especially when we are in "the last chapter" of our lives at least that's how it is with me. My current job keeps me very busy. The days seem to fly by and before I knew it we are weeks away from Christmas.

Speaking of time flying by, I had better get ready for the day. Coffee is made, Good Morning America is on the TV and my shower awaits. I wonder how my doggies are fairing in the kennel this morning? They too, are probably wondering what happened to them and where on earth is mommy?

I just finished a day of training and I am ready to enjoy an evening of relaxation. The day was jam packed with information, exercises and videos. However, by the time 3:00 p.m. rolled around most of us looked like the GSD's in the picture at the beginning of this blog. I am happy to report we survived and are looking forward to a day off from training to accommodate a change in our training schedule.

Tomorrow, Wednesday, November 7, 2007 is an Election Day in our province and being a government agency we had to cancel to allow people opportunity to vote. However, we do have to make up the day and extend our training session to Friday, November 9, 2007. On the bright side we will be dismissed early to accommodate the speakers flight back to Buffalo New York!

This afternoon I called the kennel to ask how my dogs were doing. Of course they told me they were fine and seemingly happy. I could hear barking dogs in the background but it didn't sound like mine. I know my dogs and each of their barks.

I will post more tomorrow and I think I will call it a night!