Moonbeams in Cyberspace

JOYEUX NOEL

2011-12-31T13:21:00.004-05:00

Each year I write a letter with the past year's highlights. I include it with all my Christmas cards...Now that everyone has recieved their cards (I think) Here it is ....

What a year it’s been! Frankly, I welcome a fresh New Year. ....Oh Hello! And Joyeux Noel by the way! I hope this letter finds you well and ready for the Xmas Season. It sure seemed to sneak up on us. Or am I just reluctant to admit to getting old? They say time flies the older we get. Well I for one say we just learn to process every given moment a lot faster due to gained wisdom. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!

About this year. Let’s just say our coffee pot earned its keep. Why you may ask. Well Chris and I drink instant coffee. Yes, I know, I heard many of you cringe just now. Truth be told we aren’t that fussy about our coffee. So our coffee pot only comes out for company. However this year it kept a few teams of people happy and hopping.

Last March we woke up to a flooded basement. Five inches of water is enough to destroy a fully finished basement. Fire dept pumped out the excess water and checked for sparks. Now I am the first person to appreciate a uniform but not in my home wading through my basement in their rubber boots! Home insurance sent a team to pull up floors and rip out all the lower walls. Sure, I had visions of redecorating the mundane beigeness that was my basement but not like this. Watching all the demolition to ones home is heartbreaking while another team of people pack all that you own. It was both a relief and overwhelming. So, to feel helpful and grateful, I can’t count how many trays of coffee and cookies I brought downstairs.

Fortunately both Cleo and Mahault moved out of the house to live in Montreal before this happened. Or should I say, what a waste of a good flood that could have been used to get them to move out? Hard to believe that Cleo just turned 21st last Sept. At that age, I was traveling across country to end up living in Quebec. That was..*&?%&.. yrs ago! Yes, time sure flies, seemed like just yesterday I was arguing with Cleo about the merits of better choices and consequences. Oh, wait, it was just yesterday! At any rate both Cleo and Mahault are going to UQAM (University of Quebec in Montreal) Cleo is in her 2^nd year and Mahault, Chris’ daughter is in her 1^st. At least they were both spared the whole renovation process. As I was saying....

You know that moment after cooking something on the stove, when you finally turn off the Fan...and give a sigh of relief....AHHHH! Well imagine 7 HUGE fans on full blast for 7 days & nights to dry out the downstairs. So the AHHH moment when they were finally turned off was more like, OMG! MAKE IT STOP! MAKE IT STOP!......OH IT STOPPED..?..CRUD, MY EARS ARE STILL RINGING!

Then the real work begins, after the insurance appraiser, the bank inspector and the contractor have all done their rounds. A long process begins. Rest assured I always had coffee & cookies at the ready. First was preventing a repeat of the flood. As attractive as an indoor pool sounds, swimming among xmas decorations and couch cushions just doesn’t cut it. I think there was even a mouse in the storage area on a Barbie canoe paddling to safety while cursing a blue storm. I assure you it didn’t get that language from me... ahem, but I digress. So we had to have a whole new drain system installed. Meaning one side of the house was dug up completely to fix the blocked drainage. Granted I always wanted my own castle but I was never partial to an actual MOTE. Thankfully it was only temporary.

You know how it is. Once started, it quickly becomes a Now or Never opportunity or obligation depending how you look at it, to consider that (One day we plan to do this, List) As the side was dug out, we decided to put in an Exit from the basement in order to conform to security measures needed to put a client in a room downstairs. Having both my daughter Cleo and Chris’ daughter Mahault, leaving the nest, going to University in Montreal. We had two empty rooms. While we were at it, let’s put in a bathroom where there was none! The expression “Hemoraging Money” comes to mind as these things are out of pocket. But having said that, the investment in our home is worth it and we received a security stamp of approval from the Fire Department and my employers crediting us with an additional space for a potential client when one needs placing.

All in all with stops & starts for whatever reason, the rebuilding took over 6 months. Over which time, every coffee trip downstairs had me familiar with each worker by name. I saw photos of children, was told of break ups, saw video of a grandmother celebrating her 100^th birthday! Heard about vacations, renovations, trials and tribulations. I’d bet that some work took just a tad longer than it had too because they all let it be known how much they enjoyed working for us. I also learned that it takes a village to rebuild part of a home. Carpenters, helpers, Electricians, Drywaller, Painter, Plumber, Tiler, and the Contractor that coordinates the whole symphony to perfection. They all worked hard, worked well and I know exactly how each one of them takes their coffee. The whole crew were all really nice gentlemen. When all was said and done, it was bitter sweet saying goodbye but I did a happy dance at the added counter space when we finally put the coffee pot back in the cupboard in mid September!

This year brought much sadness with the loss of 2 members of our family. My godfather Ed Spence who’s wife Simone is my mother’s sister, passed away in April. I was able to attend the services in Penticton BC and spend some precious time with my aunt and see cousins I hadn’t seen in way to many years to count.

My mother lost her husband of 32 yrs. My stepfather Ben was a big part of our lives. He shared in our growing up and had a good life with our mom. His own children were an addition to our family. I was able to spend a week with mom and see my sisters and step siblings. It’s sad that it takes these difficult times to reunite family after years of absence but it also reminds us how good it is to see each other again.

This year I was reminded how important it is to nurture the relationships we have. Time gets away from us until years pass and we realize we aren’t getting any younger and we have lost touch with many people we care about. Yes, life gets in the way but at the end of the day, our relationships also enrich our lives. With today’s multimedia it’s a lot easier to keep in touch. Drop me a line sometime.

From my family to yours, we wish you a Joyeux Noel and a very Happy New Year.

I KNOW MY JOB...............AHEM

2011-06-27T09:28:00.002-04:00

So we had a basement flood last March 12/2011...the whole basement was gutted. Floors ripped up, lower walls all removed along with the insolation. Everything we had down there, was picked through, photographed, packed up and hauled away by ppl who specialize in doing all that for insurrance etc.
Finally, 3 months later, works begins to rebuild! We are thrilled! I am so excited to decorate it to my tastes. It was nice when we moved in, but the choices made ie; floors etc, were not what I would have chosen. Nor was the gas stove...So now is the time to make some changes....YAY!
The former gas stove is for sale...

We bought an insert gaz fireplace instead, to save alot of room and have a more sleek look....Below is our new fireplace, ready to have the wall built around it...

Now begins my interesting* experience....

Installer & sidekick come a cpl days prior to instalation. He measures out the closest he can put fireplace in the corner then puts a check on the wall....I then tell him, I am getting a mantel (from same store) because we are putting the flat screen above, and it's recommended to have a mantel to cut the heat from going directly to the tv etc...anyway, the mantel choices are 60" or 66" so I want him to measure 60" so I can then order the mantel to fit that. I don't mind coming out a few inches to do that...It will also make for abit more slate on this focal wall of the fireplace.

So he measures out the 60" and puts another check on the wall...photo below. We are all on the same page, he has made his mark, see u in a cpl days ....

Thursday ...I am downstairs talking to the forman/carpenter of the other team who have started working to put my basement back together when the fireplace installer arrives....
He starts to get his stuff together when I ask him..if he remembers our convo from 2 days ago....about measurements etc....when he replies..." I KNOW MY JOB"...as he is walking out to get stuff from the truck. So I safely assume he must....lol
After lot's of noise, inside and out, he seems to be wrapping up when I go downstairs to see the fireplace....Yup, all done, great job...but he is off by atleast 7 inches!...He comes along with is camera to document his installation...when I tell him...."Sir, you were supposed to make it for a 60" wall....He says, "I thought it was closest to the corner?" I reply....that was the 1st measurement...but don't you remember the 2 checks you made on the wall Yourself? The last one is the one we decided on....." I can tell he is frustrated but being as calm as he can, when he says, "Ok, I have to start all over" as he starts walking away....and I say " It's why I asked u in the beginning if u remembered our conversation of 2 days ago and u fired off I KNOW MY JOB...." .....................
He didn't say a word...I think it's because he was trying to keep calm AND knowing HE fucked up...
As he was getting his partner and tools, I spoke to my carpenter..asked if he will be able to cut the mantel to an angle so it will fit flush to the wall and actually fit more to my liking...He confirmed that he could...so when the guy came back, I saved him a cpl hrs of work ...told him I could deal with it...have mantel cut to fit flush...and he replys "Well yeah, it will look much better that way".....I just smiled , but thought....Dude, shut the fuck up...I just saved your ass...ARGHHHH
When Chris went to pick up the Mantel, he told the salesman the whole thing, so they would KNOW... He was sorry that happened and assured us that if I decide to change it , they would go back...I will wait and see if the carpenter can actually cut the mantel, because its partly hollow with metal inside it, and will take some special tools to cut it properly...So fingers crossed....
Just goes to show....u have to keep you eye on the ball even when working with Tradesmen who KNOW THEIR JOBS!!!

MY UNCLE ED

2011-04-12T20:27:00.002-04:00

If you have grown up in a small town, like me, you dreamed of bigger and better things. It only dawns on you many yrs later as an adult how lucky you were to have had that experience. I am one such person. Living in a small skiing town in the BC Rockies gave me many memories to draw from....some good, and some bad...I would love to share some of the very good.

Fernie BC was a small town of 6000 people. We moved there when I was 5 yrs old. It also happened to be the town where my god parents lived. Ed and Simone Spence. Simone is my mother’s sister. My aunt & uncle owned “Ed’s Sport Center” the sporting goods store on Fernie’s main street.

The store always fascinated me. It wasn’t a huge store but boy, it was chalked full to the brim! My uncle had all sorts of sport equipment, you name it he had it. Skis & boots, skates & hockey sticks, fishing poles & lures of all colours with hooks that could hurt if u dared to touch them. There was also hunting gear & guns and sportswear of all kinds ...so you can imagine how much fun it would be to go see my aunt and uncle at their store.

As I look back I realize how inconvenient it must have been to have a niece pop in after school as often as I surely did but they never let on. I remember feeling special because I could stand behind the counter (being related to the owners of course). My uncle was always patient and usually had a mischievous smile when he teased me about some of the escapades they brought me on. I have stories....but I digress ...

Uncle Ed was soft spoken. Not quiet really, but certainly not a loud man. He was a great dad who was involved in his son’s sports and supported their teams. He always joked with a straight face. If you didn’t know him, it would probably take you a moment to realize he was kidding. If he teased you, he liked you. Uncle Ed was stern but never mean....I don’t think I ever saw him mad...heard him talk to his sons with a TONE a time or two but they deserved it, they were boys after all....I of course never got the TONE...I was the perfect niece...

So many lives were touched by my uncle’s uncle’s store. When I put a brief message about my uncles passing and the store in Fernie, my heart warmed at some of the comments made. One shared that she got her 1st 10 speed bike at that store, another bought her first skis...A hockey player said he couldn’t even count how many hockey sticks he bought from my uncle or how many times he got his skates sharpened there. Another added that Uncle Ed supported the hockey team that he and my cousin played for together. If you didn’t see my uncle at the front of the store, u knew he was in the back either waxing skis or repairing a bike...or the sparks were flying as he sharpened your skates...I used to love the smell of the tools, wax, grease and oil combined in that back room...I remember it still.

Back to some stories...

I was so lucky to be their goddaughter. I had the privilege of going along on some of their short trips away. Ok, I had to share them with my cousins, but it wasn’t all bad! You know how boys can be....Anyway...memories were made to NEVER be lived down...when I say Never I mean Never! They are part of my DNA so it’s a good thing they are precious to me.

One time I brought my little bag, bulging with clothes for a 2 day trip. My aunt and uncle couldn’t help but ask what in the world I had brought. Well...clothes I said. So my aunt smilingly said, ‘Let’s have a look”.....She pulled out 1, 2, 3, ....4, 5, 6...becoming incredulous as she counted just the number of TOPS I had for our 2 day trip....7,8,9.....by this time I think she had tears of laugher in her eyes as finally she counted the last 10, 11, 12,.....13! YES...13 TOPS! For a 2 day trip.....All I could say is....I just couldn’t decide!! So I brought them all......(I think I was 11)

First breakfast in a restaurant...the waitress asked me how I wanted my eggs ...I had no idea ...so I just said “Fried”.....Of course my cousins guffawed to no end at that one...

I hold dear my memories with my god parents ...and yes, even my cousins...sure they were boys but they were pretty good to me if I’m to be honest.....just don’t tell them that.

One trip to the states, we stayed in a hotel that had a pool...not only had I never stayed in a hotel before, but omg! A pool!...So of course I am so excited I dive head first in the shallow end, thankfully it’s more of a belly flop because I scraped my chin on the bottom of the pool and came up bleeding.....I still have the scar to prove it. My uncle was right there consoling me with the fact that as soon as I jumped in the pool, all the water jumped out! ...to which I always replied when he teased me...”Oh Uncle Ed!” giggling of course.

I was never to live down that story...even hearing it once more 4 yrs ago when Ed & Simone took a cruise that stopped in Quebec City for a full day. I was thrilled! I hadn’t seen them in far too many yrs to count and this gave us the opportunity to spend a whole day together and for them to meet my husband Chris.....Who was REGAILED with the pool story at the first opportunity of course. I listened with a warm heart in remembrance of good times.

As I reminisce about these precious child hood memories I hold in my heart that they are mine to keep for ever as I say one last time “Oh Uncle Ed.....I will miss you.....

BIG TRANSITIONS for CLEO

2011-01-14T14:37:00.007-05:00

Last Sunday, we moved Cleo to her first little appartment. I say little because it is literally a 1 room apt, with a closet/hallway kitchen and bathroom, here we call that a (1 1/2). It's perfect for her needs right now. The great thing about it is , she couldn't be better located! She can walk less then a block to University. The street she is living on is the *HUB* of Montreal...St. Denis is considered THE place..lined with boutiques, bistros and clubs...next to school and hopefully she can get a job close to there also. I am very excited for her...
Needless to say, most places aren't too clean when you move in. It isn't an understatement to say, this place, all be it small, was filthy! I was just itching to roll up my sleeves and put my bucket full of cleaning products to good use!
Before staring, we did some shopping. A new shower curtain, curtain poles, organizing unit above the toilet..her own broom, mop, hanging hooks and assorted storage items to better organize what little space she had.

I think I scrubbed that bathroom for over 2 hours but I have to admit enjoying it lol...Yes ..I know, sounds weird but when u start with something so dirty, it's so rewarding to see what a difference u can make. I swear that bathroom shined when I was done with it! Every tile, grout seam and ceramic around the tub was fresh and clean!! It was so satisfying to hang the shower curtain, place the towels and toiletries in their rightful place, and finish with a nice rug! I had to take a pic lol. Chris was putting the toilet shelf thing together and hanging curtain rods and placing hooks for coats up in the appartment while Cleo was unpacking boxes. So we were all busy making it a home..

Her walls still need stuff on them but the bed and bureau are all set up and most of her things are unpacked. She has a few shelves to be put up above her desk area so I didn't photograph that..but the window below looks out to her school...how cool is that! Once she gets a job close by, she wont even need to get a bus pass, big expense saver!

Many have asked me if it was hard as a mom to see her get her own place. To be perfectly honest, not really. I think my biggest adjustment was when I left her dad 10 yrs ago and we had joint custody. So I got used to having her 1 week on, 1 week off. I became acustomed to her being at her dads more in the last yr also , as the transit system is more efficient where he lives, so when she started college, then university, she would be there more often then here. So as she transitions to her own place...I think it's a big change for her but not so much for her father and I .

That said...I am super excited for her and as a mom, I wanted to make sure I helped with the new place ie; cleaning and helping find a home for her things etc. I'm glad I had been putting things aside for her over the past few yrs, like dishes, towels, kitchen stuff..not to mention raiding my own pantry to fill up her cubboard full of easy, quick foods she can heat up or throw in the microwave lol...

At the end of the very long day, the last thing we did in her appt was wash the floor thoroughly, put down the large rug we brought from home, make her bed and be happy with all we did. I was fidgetting around thinking of what else I could do when Cleo says.."Maman, I can deal with the rest".

I think that is what I needed to hear...to walk away. I knew my job was done when she was ready to see me go...as much for me as for her. If that makes sense lol. I left with a light heart knowing her place was clean and fresh and pretty well set up...It's her adventure to live now..with me peeking in when I can ofcourse....and to drop off some toilet paper and a bag of groceries every now and then lol

YEAR IN REVIEW

2011-01-03T19:55:00.003-05:00

This is my yearly review letter. I do one each year to send with my xmas cards...as they have all now been recieved I am sharing on my blog...Happy New Year!

Another year has flown by. I hope this letter finds you all well and ready for the next one. As for us, things are good. We have enjoyed our new home for over a year now. That's enough time to know we love it and it's also far from perfect. Takes a year to figure out what needed fixing and where ones priorities should be. I will concede that a spa ISN'T a priority, spending a $1000 repairing the existing irrigation system IS...although I could still enjoy a spa and water the lawn from said spa using a bucket, but that's just me. I am thinking the spa idea may float back to the surface in a few years....shhhhh. There is an existing list of improvements to deal with until then. Thankfuly, only cosmetic in nature. As I'm thinking of it, I have started an adjacent list for cosmetic improvements on myself, a wish list of sorts...I wonder if spackle comes in skin tone? Now that would be a 2 for 1 deal if I ever saw one!

Just like a GPS can unexpectedly take you to a warehouse full of prostitutes and drug dealers, life has a way of throwing us curve balls. I recently got one of those myself but the ball was thrown directly at my sternum. I had major chest & back pains. Found myself rushing to hospital in an ambulance. If I wasn't in so much pain, it would have been a lot of fun. Suffice to say that after ruling out the worst it was figured out that my gallbladder has been making its own gem stones. Now, under normal circumstances I could actually appreciate this, as I love making jewellery but some warning would have been nice. Kind of scary thinking our bodies can have symbiotic reactions to ones hobbies...remind me never to take up Shot-put!

Over the year I got on the workout wagon. Yes that wagon has heavy duty chucks. I was very consistent and actually developed some good muscle tone. Lost a few inches here and there but my weight hardly budged. My fat cells are hanging on for dear life. Frustrating to say the least, especially as month after month, I hated every minute of it more and more. Those who say they started to love it are all on drugs. In the past month, since my gallbladder episode my workouts have gone on hiatus. My body is in negotiations with my brain to get me back for another season with promises of better scheduling, less work, and a big raise in results. My brain still isn't buying it. My get up and go, got up and left. I think its sitting on a beach in the south of France somewhere. Thankfully I'm not worried, it will eventually makes its way back to make sure I get back on that wagon.

In other news, Mahault, Chris' daughter is living with us and in her 2nd yr of college doing very well. Cleo has graduated college (CJEP Lionel Groux) in arts. One of her art projects was chosen to take part in a province wide contest/exhibition. Having been chosen, the school payed for her to take part in the weekend long exhibition and workshops in central Quebec. She didn't win but had a terrific time. More for the partying aspect then educational of course! Put college students from all over in one place for a weekend and see what happens! I can just be thankful she made it back in once piece!

At the end of her college yr, she was also chosen with 5 other artist to display many of her works in an Art Gallery in St Therese the city that's home to her college. She then applied to UQAM (University de Quebec A Montreal) and Concordia University in Sceneography which is a 3 yr bachelors program that covers everything in arts/theatre from designing costumes, sets and graphics to building, sewing and producing everything. They only choose 20 students per year out of hundreds from all over. We were thrilled when Cleo was chosen by both schools, giving her a choice. She started at UQAM this fall. With the workload at school, her job and having to work on productions till all hours, a big change is near. She has been commuting with the public trans system. It's not cutting it so we are looking into finding her a small apartment in Montreal. It will be a new adventure for her and very different for me. The sprouting of wings! The big step! The transition into responsibility! The realization that my baby will be leaving her crap all over floors, doorknobs and counters SOMEWHERE ELSE! It's emotionally overwhelming just thinking about it. Needless to say, we are proud of her and hope to get her nicely set up before the next term starts in January.

Living near Montreal means that most people commute for work. Montreal is an island so traffic always backs up at all the bridges. So even though Montreal is only aprox 30 mins away, someone who needs to be at work at 9:00 am would have to leave by 6:30 am. Yes, it's ridiculous. Chris worked in Montrealfor the past 6 yrs, it took him 45 mins to get there. He applied and got a new job just 10 mins away! We are thrilled! He’s still a supervisor in a chemistry field but no longer in pharmaceuticals. It's such a gift to be so close to home for so many reasons. I don't have to wait an hour for milk, or bread or if I need him to open a jar for me, after I got it lose first (you know how that works). Not forgetting the savings in gas and wear and tear on the car. OH! and Chris being home a lot earlier of course! To top that off, Chris has gone back to University 3 nights a week! He wants his Industrial Project Management certificate so the deal was no keggers or bringing home pretty young students to do homework! So far my smart ass has top marks in both classes. Good thing his ego is brought back to reality when he gets home to his wife LOL!

We still have our three clients living with us. Luc, Jean-Pierre and Raymond. All doing well, regardless of their handicaps. I think it's far more challenging dealing with two college/university students then three mentally & physically handicapped adults! Granted Luc is blind, wears diapers, moans and manages to move his chair and the kitchen table across the room most days. J-P is almost blind, likes to hum out loud while wearing his radio headphones, not a pretty sound let me assure you, I think a couple of cats in heat on top of a broken violin would be preferable. Raymond has to be reminded that he can let the snow actually land on the ground before shovelling it all up! He’s the same with the rake in fall...the leaves don't have the time to hit the grass, he has them in the bag before you know it! Life can be called interesting in our house to say the least!

So there you have it. Another year in review from our house to yours. We wish you all a terrific Christmas and New Year’s season. Thinking of you all as we look forward to a new year, new adventures and new experiences.

MY BABY IS 20!

2010-09-21T00:42:00.002-04:00

I really find it hard to believe that my only child turned 20 today! I mean really..20? How can that be, I still feel 28 like when I had her...ok, depends on the day but STILL!
Alas it's true, she is no longer a teen and I am no longer in my 20's lol. But she will ALWAYS be my little girl no matter what age.
She couldn't wait to turn 20, said she was past being a "teen" lol..I remember feeling that way, most of us did. We figure out eventually that time does fly by us doesn't it.
So today, we met up with Cleo in Montreal as she had half a day of school only. Was a good thing too as she has been super sick since last week with a really bad case of tonsilitis, could barely talk. Today she was better as the antibiotics finally started to kick in. She certainly isn't 100% but glad she had some time to spend with us on her bday.
We did some shopping on St Catherines , downtown Montreal..and ofcourse mom needs pics no matter how crappy she feels lol, only turn 20 once!

After that, we went to a great fushion resturant that has sushi and japanese food. Both Cleo and Chris' daughter Mahault love sushi, and Chris and I don't but we like japanese food so its perfect!

For her bday , she asked for a good camera. Last yr in college, she had to rent a digital from school for many of her projects and found that she loved photography and even got paid for some work with photos...so because it was a big ticket item I agreed but only if her Dad pitched in and she also paid a 3rd of the cost....Only because I know by investing herself, she would be that much more reponsible for it. She worked alot over the summer and continues to work school schedule permitting...So...we got her a really nice kit that anyone would be lucky to have...

Chris and his daughter Mahault....

Me and Chris...

Had a great meal, toasted Cleo's birthday..( here legal drinking age is 18) and enjoyed some fried icecream lol...
I am afraid to blink for fear that when I reopen my eyes, she will be 40! (and I will be 68!) lol

Canadian Maple Spread..

2010-09-12T01:37:00.005-04:00

As I had company coming from the states recently, I thought, what could I make as a gift that is typically Canadian.

I found a recipe for Maple Spread! It was really simple and delicious, if I do say so myself.

Before starting though, I wanted to prepare something cute to put it in as I was giving some as a gift. So I went to the dollar start to get inspired lol...

It really is a terrific place to get some ideas that don't cost an arm...

I found some great jars that have a rubber seal..some rafia..and some plastic maple leaves...I had some some sticky lables and a pretty stamp...and voila..pretty and yummy .....

and btw, she loved it! We shared some here and I sent her home with some..Recipe below if you want it.

MAPLE SPREAD

-1 cup cooking cream (15%)

-2 egge yokes

-1 cup real maple syrup

-3 tbsp corn starch

-2 tbsp cold water

-3-4 drops of vanilla

In a pot wisk the cream and egg yokes together. Add the maple syrup and bring to a boil on med heat. Aside, mix the cornstarch and cold water....then while continued mixing, add to the pot....Mix smoothly till mixure thickens...then pour into you containers..let cool before refrigerating....

ENJOY!

IT'S ALL IN THE GENES...OOPS, JEANS RATHER!

2010-09-12T00:58:00.006-04:00

So as my shape starts to take shape so to speak...it has given me a wisp of confidense. I say wisp because I have a very long way to go to attain any kind of real big result. But until then, I can proudly say, I have lost a few inches most everywhere. My weight hasn't moved much but my shape has definately started to change.

My last blood work up and and doctors appointment a cpl weeks ago was very uplifting. My doctor was all smiles and anxious for me to get in her office to show me the numbers lol...Basically, my work up was showing numbers of a person who had NEVER had diabetis! She was so impressed, and kept saying she was proud of me lol...I can also bet, it's nice for a doctor to see a patient get healthier with each visit, rather then the contrary that is more often the case....

Down 7 lbs, not alot but good nonetheless...and we were able to take another medication off the list...cholesterol med was a low dose as a precaution, especially when I was diabetic...but now with my working out, and my numbers being so good...we can scratch it! That makes 8 meds down, in a 2 yr period! I am thrilled!

As of now, I only have 3 left....1 for my slow thyroid..that will be a lifetime medication...1 for restless leg syndrome, that will also be around for ever, unless I want to kick all night lol, and lastly, one for BP, but not for my heart, it also protects the kidneys, and as they were damaged when my diabetis was bad, it has helped things get better over time..they have healed greatly in 2 yrs, so we hope to be able to eliminate that one with time....I have to say, I was almost skipping on my way out of the doctors office!

As things continue, I have enjoyed the great sales on clothes. So after going down a few sizes, it's been a real pleasure trying things on, modeling for my ever patient and encouraging husband..and even gathered the courage to try on a real pair of jeans. I have always been of the opinion that jeans do nothing but excentuate the worst on ppl that are very voluptuous for the most part lol ...It has been atleast 10 yrs since I put a pair of jeans on. So yes, I finally tryed some one..and voila...here and above, I am wearing my first pair of jeans in many yrs lol...I have to say, I like then ....

Oddly enough, they give me a new confidense that I can start fitting into more hip..current things...rather then just strive for something to fit period!

Got my hair trimmed and coloured this week also..it's abit blonder then last time, I like it...

As a totally unrelated bonus this week, I got a new washer/dryer set! Or should I call it a home entertainment center instead?...I say that because I am so in love with then, that I can just sit there and happily watch them go round and round...enjoy the bells and whistles..listen to the silence of them, or dance to the little jingle they chime when done, rather then the atrocious BUZZZ the other ones had...that would wake the dead! I am thrilled as u can tell! .. As I am washing for 7 ppl, my old set was just too small and I really wanted a set with a Sanitary option when needed, as I am dealing with clients with special needs and situations.

Needless to say, I have been washing everything I can get my hands on this week lol! I hope to sell my old set, they work well, and would be perfect for someone starting out who wants a small frontal set.....

Oh, must go..my dryer just started singing for me again...later!

SCHOOL IS IN SESSION!

2010-09-12T00:29:00.003-04:00

This past week has been filled with lot's of new beginnings.

School is definately in session!

My daughter Cleo, after having graduated college last spring, just started University in a 3 yr bachelors program that only choose 20 students per yr!Design for theatre that will cover everything from building sets, to designing and sewing costumes, graphics, model building, computer programs...u name it they will work with it or create it. As I have mentioned before, I am very proud of her!

My step daughter Mahault, just started her 2nd yr in college, she did very well last yr, working towards getting to university to eventually become a sexologist, we are very proud of her!

Last but not least! Chris started back at University! after an absense of over 20 yrs ! I am thrilled and very proud of him! He is getting a certificate in Industrial project management.
My one stipulation was that he wasn't allowed any keg parties or bringing home any female homework partners lmao!

The week was filled with adrenalin to say the least lol..
Two of my clients started back at their program/school also. One has a 5 day schedule since he has been going for yrs now, our other guy only has 1 day a week for now as he is new in the region, they need to make sure he fits in ok, and hopefully availability with classes will alow him to have more days with time..fingers crossed.
As for me...things are pretty routine, Luke , our blind, mute will be home with me as usual. But I will have to get used to having a house full of students! Me thinks the oldest one, my husband will need some getting used too LOL...

MY SEXIEST GLOVES!

2010-08-04T15:27:00.002-04:00

Had someone told me a yr ago that I would be sporting a pair of these silly work out gloves I would have scoffed and rolled my eyes..Seriously..

My opinion of them were the same as those goobers who get all kitted out from head to toe for a new sport to then give it up after one trial class lol..

Well, I have to admit to being wrong about the work out gloves...In Jan when I started working out, my hands kept slipping off the treadmill handles, I fashioned thick faceclothes on the handles with elastics lol, that helped but I honestly have sweaty hands..and once on the Bow flex or eliptical machine I had the same prob...Chris suggested we get me a pair of the gloves..I still scoffed lol..

We happen to be in a sport section shortly after that..he grabbed a pair for me..Next day I put them on. Chris growled...in that sexy way...said they looked damn sexy LOL! I had to admit they looked cool, in that.(I look like I work out for real kinda way)...because even if it's been months, I still don't have that feeling of knowing what I am doing or feel like one of those jock kinda ppl lol...but I can say that my nifty sports gloves are awesome! They wick away the sweat. No need for my elastic bound washcloths on handles..I have a good grip on the bowflex and the treadmill...and I might add that they are a total fashion statement, especially when I have red nail polish on LOL.

So this week, after a month from working out..I got back on the workout horse so to speak. Due to having company , then busy painting a few rooms in the house I took a break from it but the worst was getting very sick with Bronchitis and an acute sinus infection putting me out of commision for over 2 weeks...So although I am mostly over it , I am still never far from tissues..still blowing my nose alot lol...

It has actually felt good to be back on track so to speak..I still hate every moment of it..that I doubt will ever change but I feel so good when I got it done...

I have every reason to continue ..but I think the boost I got this week helped alot.
Chris and I went shopping this week, I had to check out a few great summer sales..and tryed on a cpl dresses. After finding a few way to big, I was astonished that I got into size 16! ...and the WOW I got when I pulled the changing room curtain aside, from Chris..was certainly nice also...I was beaming from having a 16 on, and he was beaming ...period lol..
Now, a 16 might not be spectacular to many...but it's a leap for me when you consider I wore a 24-26 for yrs..It has been an uphill battle but worth it ..through surgery which certainly helps but is not a magic pill by any means...and working out as consistantly as I can...

I plan to post a pic of my new dresses next time I get dolled up ...untill then...I hope to keep wearing my sexy work out gloves ...like the Nike logo on them mean... JUST DO IT!

NEW CHICK FLEW INTO MY HUSBANDS LIFE TODAY!

2010-07-21T05:34:00.002-04:00

Everyday that he can, my husband Chris does laps in our pool..I have to envy his love of it, not to mention his tenacity! He does 240 laps (10 metres long) takes him about an hour.....I know! nuts right?

Anyway today, his laps weren't quite finished when I hear him call my name ...then tell me to bring the camera!

I rushed outside to see an adorable little duck!! He had just decided to join Chris in the pool! No mom in sight!

What's funny, is that this little guy must have just walked across the whole yard ..because he didn't have his flying feathers yet! He was loving the pool, diving deep, swimming all around it...the dogs seemed perlexed to say the least...like, um what's that thing in the pool with you daddy? lol

Thankfully, our neighbours are avid bird watchers. They also have heeps of bird feeders set up so many birds come to feed along with some duck families. We brought our little duck over to them, to see what they could suggest , we couldn't just leave our little guy in the pool..

Thankfully the neighbours had a big cage they could rig, to feed the little guy, put a large pool of water in...and hopefully be able to integrate the duck to the other duck families when they showed up...the one gentleman next door is home recuperating from an accident so he can tend to the little duck full time...I am very relieved we had great neighbours who also have a large interest in feathered friends!

So that was todays adventure lol!

Cleo's first showing in a real Art Gallery!

2010-06-02T22:23:00.002-04:00

Tonight I went to a new showing in an Art Gallery. Eight young artists were featured. One being my daughter Cleo! It is needless to say how proud I am of her, words would be hard to really express how much.

Both pieces on the wall are Cleo's, I have a more photos of us in flickr, if interested, just double click on any of these to go directly to flickr...Enjoy!

Court métrage / Short movie - Julie Monette Theoret

2010-05-28T21:45:00.001-04:00

Just click below to view....

Court métrage / Short movie - Julie Monette Theoret

This is the short 3D movie my god daughter did! We saw it on a big screen lastnight at her college graduation lastnight along with 22 other short movies done by the other grad students. I am so very proud of Julie!

After the ceremonies in the theatre, they had all the graduates leave..to another area..where we soon followed. They were all set up individually with their movie poster behind them and their portfolios on tables infront of them, along with their resume's and business cards. Great for anyone in the industry to meet, shake hands with and get info from anyone of these fresh graduates..There was also a live band playing, hors d'oeuvres, wine and other refreshments being served for all. It was such a lovely evening!

Below is Julie with her bf who lives in France. He came to Canada for the special occasion of Julie's graduation. He returns home in a week unfortunately...He once lived in Canada for over a yr but had to return due to visa issues..so needless to say, they don't get enough time together but I am so glad he was there to celebrate this evening with her.

I have more photos and a short video on my flickr page of the evening. Just double click on any of these photos to get there if u want to see more.
Bravo Julie ma belle!! I am very proud of you! Chris , Cleo and I all had a wonderful evening and I am so happy to have been there to share this special moment in your life with you!!

COLLEGE GRADUATE!

2010-05-22T03:15:00.003-04:00

My daughter Cleo graduated from college today. I am so proud of her and how far she has come over the last 2.5 yrs she attended college. She has flourished into an artist and grown in maturity both noted by myself and her peers.

This evening was for the 98 art students graduation and their friends and family to enjoy many of the displays and pieces of art produced over the past yr.

This year, Cleo was one of only 5 chosen out of 98 students to take part in a provincial exposition.
Winning Students from all colleges across Quebec had all their chosen art projects meet for a weekend long exhibit...they had all expenses payed for that weekend, including many cool workshops to take part in...The sculpter that won her that spot was a machine called "The Money Machine" ..its an odd conveyer belt thing that brings pennies up the ramp to fall into metal hands, that never seem to catch the money in fact..they open at the wrong time....this is on purpose to convey how money falls through our hands, it also seems to just go round and round like society itself with money etc etc, ..

The photo of her in the other vignette she did, pic below also, is one that is Office Caos...It won a price tonight at graduation...one of only about 5 given out this evening..She is invited to show her work in a real Art Gallery.

Below is a blue tarp with her likeness, each student had to do one...was hard to get a good photo of it as it was night, outside...What's interesting is that this is not done with paint, it's all done with diff coloured electrical tape! Yes Tape, all cut pieces to end up looking like a sort of pop art likeness...

She has learned so much , yet there is much more to come! She starts university in fall...for another great adventure towards a BA....
I have loaded a bunch of pics of her work...just double click on any of these here, to go to the flickr page...I can't say I understand all the pieces, or find them all beautiful lol..but they often had specific mediums and/or themes to follow. I hope you enjoy...

DEERE JOHN...oops, I mean JOHN DEERE has ARRIVED!

2010-05-20T15:57:00.005-04:00

This week, we got a very special delivery. A brand spankin new John Deere mowing tractor! To top that off....it was a very generous house warming gift from my Dad!! Merci Papa! 0x0x0x...

The delivery guy thought it was funny that I had my camera for his arrival lol, but hey, some may not think it's a big deal, we sure do!! Since we moved here last summer, Chris has been doing the lawn with a small electric mower..we would joke that we wouldn't see him for 3 days untill it was done...Seriously, it took forever to do it with this yard. Just like I have mentioned before about the driveway...

Summer time = Wow, we have a 6 car driveway!

Winter time= Holy crap, we have a 6 car driveway to remove snow from!

Well having a yard of 23,000 square feet is the same thing in terms of lawn care lol. Chris is like a little boy with a new toy with the thing! So I had to share this short clip of his mayden voyage on his man tractor lol....With his favorite Tilley hat, I call him my Indianna Jones on a tractor lol.

Isn't he cute on that thing lol.....

SHE MADE THE CUT!!

2010-04-29T18:09:00.002-04:00

My daughter got the official confirmation today! She made the cut! For one of the hardest programs to get into in the Univercity of Quebec in Montreal (UQAM).....Only 20 students chosen each year to be part of a 3 year bachelors program in arts...precisely Scenographie (Design for Theatre in english)....

It's pretty cool to say the least! She has worked very hard to get this far. In this province, one must do 2 yrs of college before going to Univercity...she has done very well in the arts program in college..

Each year, there is an intercollege competition...each college in Quebec chooses 5 of their best projects..to then take part in a province wide art exhibit, among all the diff colleges...Cleo was one of the 5 chosen in her college among aprox 100 art students...Her college has a very strong art department....This very weekend, all the chosen go to the city in Quebec that will be hosting the exhibit..3 full days of workshops and activities, meals and hotel is payed for ...the overall winner is chosen for the whole province.
To be among the artists chosen is pretty cool indeed..she leaves for the 3 days, tomorrow afternoon...for a very cool experience no doubt! We are very proud of her!
As for UQAM, she had her interview with her portfolio over a week ago...they had many interviews scheduled before and after her, but the proffessor that looked at her work and talked to her for aprox 30 mins, said he was very impressed with all her work...and that she was "IN "FOR SURE!... She was on a cloud when she got through the whole day in there!

And as much as I was thrilled for her, I as a parent thought, I hope he was serious, and wouldn't say that unless it was really true, given how difficult it was to get in that program. So I held my breath for over a week untill the official paper arrived to confirm everything lol...It is also why I waited to post anything about it lol....Don't get me wrong, I had faith in my daughter, but as a parent I think we are wary of others and also learn that untill it's in writting......yada yada...
Needless to say, I am a very proud mom...and know my daughter will create more wonderfull things, but mostly, knowing she is going into something she will love is priceless....Bravo my belle Cleo, je suis fiere de toi! 0x0x

Urban Dog Photog by Brigitte Bouvier

2010-04-27T10:20:00.002-04:00

This short piece was done by my sister Brigitte Bouvier. A photo journalist. About her friend Sue Bird who is also a photo journalist with a site called Urban Dog Photog. If you love animals, you will absolutely love this!! Enjoy!

The person you see is not my sister, as some think lol. My sister created and produced this documentary, so she was behind the camers, not infront of it lol.

The border collie you see at the beginning and the end is however my sister's dog Kiezer.

Please share this video! It will be awesome for both Brigitte and Sue in terms of visability! THANKS

ONE LUCKY BIRD!!!, Could have been Crispy Wings!

2010-04-21T17:08:00.007-04:00

Today I heard slight scratching in the chimney...then stopped...later it happened again...stopped. Few hours later..Chris was home, so he heard it too, so I knew I wasn't going crazy lol.

Keep in mind, it's still cool enough most days to merit a nice fire in the fireplace, so what turned out to be a black bird, was very lucky indeed!

He opened the flu, it would fall down hopefully and we could "help" it out. So below is a photo and the video story of how this bird was very lucky lol.

Alls well that ends well! No living thing was harmed in the making of this post! PS...my oven mits are in the laundry lol.

I HAVE AN AWESOME PAIR OF.......ARMPITS

2010-04-19T14:34:00.002-04:00

YES! I said armpits! ARGHHHHH
I have been working out since Jan 1st, and haven't really lost any weight. Now ..I do realize, and repeat to myself constantly, that building muscle is what needs to be done in order to then have that muscle burn the excess...and I mean EXCESS of fat that seems to cling to my body for dear life!
That said, I also realize that muscle is much heavier then said fat! Which explains why initally, I did gain a few lbs the first month I started my torture...I mean exercising schedule.
I have been pretty consistant in doing a mixture of cardio and resistance training with lots of crunches & core exercises on a floor mat to have a well rounded routine that takes me about an hour in all. Usually 4 or 5 times a week.
I have heard so many ppl that start working out say once they got into it, they LOVE it and NEED it...hate to miss it.
I am still waiting for this epiphany of need TO HIT ME! Seriously I personally think they are all full of bovine waste product! but hey, if saying that helps them to just DO IT, good for them!

As for moi? I HATE every *!^~%#!$@$*! Second of it! Seriously! I hate hate hate it...but..I can safely say I LOVE when I finished that god forsaken hour of HELL..that seems like it took a freakin half day of my life!
After over 3 months of this torture, I have FINALLY started to see a few results...some mild measurement reductions....let me mention that my little sewers tape measure mortifyingly couldn't reach around my waist...yes folks I am VERY VALUPTUOUS in stature (this being the most diplomatic of discriptions I could think of ). So using the big construction measuring tape from the garage has proved to be imbarrasing if anything but the Wheeeee & SLAP sound it makes when it's auto retreat mechanism brings it back to its casing is Disconcerting at best.
I don't think I have a number of lbs to lose goal anymore, I think it will be using a sewers measuring tape goal instead lol! Once I get to that pinnacle of achievement I will do naked backward cartwheels (in my mind).
So anyway, I digress!...As I was saying earlier...things have started to change, very subtly...of this I am very gratefull but still impatient..it's so true what they say, the older we get the harder and longer it takes to lose weight and see changes.
As I was putting my nighty on last night, I was facing the mirror and stopped in amazement...while my arms were up in the air! My ARMPITS have lost weight!!! OMG I started laughing, called Chris over...Look! My armpits are hollower! It's so noticeable it's funny! Why couldn't it be my waist for the love of Pete! NOOO I have to have deeper armpits! YAY working out has helped the one area that NO ONE else will ever notice LMAO!!
Unless ofcourse I start walking around and randomly lift my arms and point...LOOK..see....eh, obvious isn't it??? My pits rock!

Ok, so I have had my little vent...but let me reiterate that I am going to continue to do my body good by exercising...ofcourse I want to melt and look the way I did at 20 but I know that's NOT GONNA HAPPEN .......EVER!!.....lol..I do want to be healthier however and those days I just don't feel like it (basically everyday) I have to repeat to myself JUST DO IT!! and I usually do, and proud of myself for it.

I have come a very long way....For those who did not know, a few yrs ago I was a very sick person...I had full blown type 2 diabetis.. with a very slow thyroid , so weight got way out of hand, morbidly obese , high bp, cholesterol , swelling, reflux...u name it, I had perscriptions for it! I was taking meds for diabetis and so many other things, it wasn't funny! I was way too young to be so sick...with my kidneys showing bad results it got really scary when my doctor said, if things didn't change I was on the road to dialosis..soon!...NO WAY!
By that time, I was already on a waiting list for Gastric Bypass.. It was the best way for me to get the ball rolling healthwise and go from there...but let me tell you, anyone who thinks it's a quick fix that is easy are SO WRONG!...It's not easy by any means and it certainly does not eliminate the problems caused to need it in the first place! I lost 80lbs within a few months of surgery, that enables my body to better deal with diabetis without the meds..and slowly most all the meds I had been taking, were eliminated one by one !! I got alot healthier! That said...even if you can't eat alot at once, u can still eat often and you can still gain weight...it started to creep back slowly..but I refuse to go back where I was...so over the last 2 yrs I have struggled with food and exercise like many ...on and off the wagon so to speak...and I will struggle with it all my life...I have made alot of good food long term habit changes that will stay with me always..but I refuse to DIET.. Diets are what make ppl fat..they do not work! The key is moderation and logic..we can have anything we want, just not tons of it lol..its that simple..The moment we deprive ourselves of things, we want them more and go crazy till we want to eat a tub full of it at once lol...u get the picture...Anyway....
I still weigh over 200lbs...yes I actually just wrote that for everyone to see...but that's ok...I have come a very long way, to being a much healthier person, striving to become even better every day...kicking and screaming with each step I take! LOL....I have every reason to want to live longer and be healthy doing it with the fabulous husband I have who supports me no matter what I do, who loves me no matter how much I weigh and who is often working out right next to me sweating on the days he isn't at work...During the last 8 yrs we have been together no matter my size (and there has been quite a few lol) he has ALWAYS made me feel like I was the most beautiful and sexy woman in the world to him! How lucky am I?
So I will finish this by saying:

HURRAY FOR HOLLOWER ARMPITS!!
I can only strive for more hollows to follow! One day at a time!

BLAST FROM THE PAST!

2010-03-31T22:37:00.002-04:00

I had a wonderful afternoon today! I was able to reunite with a friend I hadn't seen in almost 30 yrs! It's those moments you realize that time really does fly by! To be honest, it can also be abit intimidating to be 30 yrs older and on your way to meet such an old friend...but again, life is too short to let such things hold you back.
I was so excited to see Darryl again and meet his wife Barb...truth be told, he looks terrific and very happy. Within a few minutes, his wife seemed like someone we had known for yrs also. Very genuine and generous of nature. It's not always easy for spouses, when 2 ppl who went to school together start comparing notes and naming names lol...but Barb and Chris seemed to take us in stride and even got on well talking to eachother while Darryl and I reminised.
If there was one down side to the day it was that originaly, the plan was for them to come to our house to spend the whole day. Unfortunately it couldn't happen so we met them at one of our favorite restaurants in downtown Montreal instead for lunch...So the plan is for us to get together again some time!
The visit was to short lived, and I would love to make new memories...so.

Darryl and Barb...to next time...hopefully staying in our home or if we go out your way in future...Chris and I look forward to sharing more good conversations.....

more stories and adventures and continued friendship!
Thanks for a great afternoon!....

Hortense & Matilda have relatives!

2010-03-06T17:07:00.002-05:00

As I start my 48th yr, as it was my 47th bday yesterday..it has become more then apparent that theres some things we just have to deal with and try to do it with either humour or good graces!

I know what I want for my bday, just need to go get it for myself this week...or as SOON AS I POSSIBLY CAN! Let me explain.....

Couple weeks ago, Chris and I were shopping at a house wares store, and while in the bathroom section I see some mirrors. I found myself propelled towards a round mirror that had a long folding arm. The arm is meant to be attached to the wall, so u can pull it out and possition as needed etc...I have found in the past yrs that my eyesight has done that AGE thing, where u have to back up about 10 feet to see the writting on the wall so to speak..ARGH.. so yes, I have found myself stacking the rooms with those little reading glasses..atleast to make it fun, I have accumulated some really cute, colourful ones for chuckles, I look so cute with my pink ones decked with sparkly fleur d'ly accents on them while reading in the bathtub .....I digress.....

..so back to said mirror..well I thought this mirror was briliant! But WAIT it gets better! as I approuch I notice it has 5X magnifying on it, so I had to look closer, ...OMG! I was so shocked, I almost backed into the display behind me! Seriously, there should be a warning/disclamer label on these things...(OBJECTS SEEN WILL APPEAR LARGER AND OUT OF NOWHERE TO SCARE THE CRAP OUT OF YOU AND EMBARRASE HARDENED CRIMINALS EVEN!)

So after my heartrate becomes stable I reapprouch tentitavely ...so as not to startle my brain again...but mostly to confirm the worst.....Holy Crap Batman, it's true...Hortense and Matilda my two regularly reoccuring chin hairs have relatives!! (Yes I named my 2 chin hairs, as I got so used to seeing them over and over again, it just seemed fitting to me....)

So here I am thinking I should join the freaking circus! as the bearded lady, this is just WRONG WRONG WRONG!... how the hell have I been walking around in public like this, sheesh, it's a wonder I haven't already tripped on the damn invasion! I was mortifyed and vowed that I needed this miracle of mirrors...but I had to wait, as it was more then my budget would allow for now...so as I sit here longing for the perfect solution to my utter embarrasement, I am wondering if I should find names for the new relatives.......maybe not as I will be going to get my mirror on Monday YAY!

As for my birthday itself, I had a wonderful day! I got all dolled up...with extra care, as I wanted to take some new bday photos before heading out the door and before my makeup fell off lol. Makeup is my friend!

We went out for a nice supper then off to the Montreal Casino. It has become a tradition for the last 4 yrs...We set a budget and stuck to it. We didnt bring more money home but we had alot of fun trying! We made it last hours and even had one machine give me 2 hours of fun for only a few bucks! Bless Chris, because we got home at 2:30 am, and he had to get up for work this morning early. He is so good to me..and wouldn't have me cashing out the machine so we could leave...He said, just play it out, it's your night, enjoy it!

As I am now officially in my late 40's I can safely say I am happy and proud. Although I am getting older...I have also been on a road to better health for the past few yrs. The new wrinkles and gray hair I see, have been earned and I hope there's still alot of room for new things to be learned!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MATANTE MARIE-PAUL

2010-02-25T21:45:00.002-05:00

Took my aunt out for lunch today. In a few days, she will be 90 years old! She is a lovely person and I am proud to be related to her. I could be so lucky to look at good as her and as active as she is for her age!
BONNE FÉTE MA TANTE MARIE-PAUL!! 0X0X

NEW HOUSE-SUMMER "OH COOL WE HAVE A 7 CAR DRIVEWAY!" WINTER- "OH CRAP WE HAVE A 7 CAR DRIVE!"

2009-12-09T16:35:00.003-05:00

Winter finally showed up with a vengence! Up till now, we have had a mild fall/winter season. It's rare that we don't have snow by Dec...as a matter of fact, it is even more rare to still have very sunny warmish days in Nov even. Yesterday was our day out, and full of sunshine and crisp fall air. No snow in sight...shoe weather. I am so glad we got so much shopping for xmas done, because today...actually only from this morning...we have been got this...

Chris shoveling because the snow removal tractor hasn't come yet and we were expecting someone so there needed to be some room lol

The back deck..
Then within only 4 hours, Chris had to go out again start all over again!...the winds and snow was really bad...

YAY! The tractor is here! The tractor is here!

Sure makes quick work of a 7 car driveway full of snow!

Needless to say it was all or nothing this year, lol..no gradual inching into winter...no we got the full forse gails of blizzard, aprox 1 foot of snow in one day..ooouufff...Where are my thick boot socks!?
The good news is we paid for the snow removal for the driveway...GREAT IDEA! and worth every penny!

OFFICIALLY CHRISTMAS! & GREAT NEWS!

2009-12-03T19:06:00.004-05:00

It's not officialy Xmas untill all the decorations are out! We got it done lastnight. I couldn't wait this year. I love it, the house looks great. I even did the village with a train set going around the tree base. Something I hadn't done in years. Here are a few photos.

I like to try different things when I do my tree every so often. Some years I do lots of bows, or pearl garland ...This year I got fake holly twigs, and stuck them all over, I just love how it looks, Mostly red but a few gold ones.
This next photo, I just love! It just worked....looks like Mikey is sliding down the ribbon, looks up at the big crystal in his way as if to say Uh Oh...and u also see the red holly I am talking about just behind him ...

Day time pic...

I have a few more pics in flickr...or just click on any of these to make them bigger.....I am thrilled it's all done...I got some great news this week. My dad and his wife will be flying in from Saskatchewan to spend Christmas with us. My sister Brigitte and her husband Glen is also coming from Ottawa as dad will be here...I am beside myself. It will be the first Christmas with my emmediate family in over 27 yrs! This will be an awesome Noël with family , fun and making new memories!!

What are your plans for this Xmas? Do you have special traditions? I love hearing what different family do for their holidays...

Got our first snow fall today!

2009-11-30T21:09:00.000-05:00

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Couldn't Help Myself, these are too cute!

2009-11-30T20:57:00.000-05:00

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DECKED OUT FOR CHRISTMAS!

2009-11-17T19:20:00.002-05:00

We have had the most awesome November that I can remember! The sun has been shining bright and the temperatures have been unbelievable. Which has made putting the xmas decorations up on the new house a real pleasure. Seriously, it has been t-shirt weather as long as the sun is out.

Chris has done the best part of the work ofcourse..as I deligate and decide details lol. We are pretty happy with the results. What do u think?

Click any photo to make bigger or if u want to see the few more pics that are in flickr...I am now ready for it to snow! Lots of it! Everything will look marvelous with all the white..I am hoping to take a nice photo at xmas time, with the lights of the xmas tree peaking through the front window, lots of snow outside...to use as my xmas card next year..but I am no photographer lol...we will see.
I look forward to decorating the inside of the house now. Not till December but I am chomping at the bit lol. First time I have been anxious to hall all the xmas decorations and the tree upstairs in yrs!! lol...

BEAUTY OF AUTUMN

2009-11-04T22:05:00.003-05:00

I love this time of year, the cool after a humid summer the change in landscape, the rich blank of colours. This from a woman who is colour blind lol...I may not see the same as others but I do see colour nonetheless.
I love trees when they have lost all their leaves...the detail of all those individual branches at times looking fragile, yet part of a bigger whole that is so strong. The Silhouette of such a tree against the backdrop of a beautiful sky is one of my favorite things. Chris and I took a short walk this week, near the river close to home...there was a field with thousands of Canadian Geese resting during their mygration. The sky was so full of colour and the trees were beautiful. I so wish I had my camera for a better quality photo but I took a cpl pics with Chris' phone...this one was my favorite. I even put it up as my pc desktop image lol.

ZOMBIES!!

2009-10-06T13:03:00.000-04:00

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NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD!

2009-10-06T12:50:00.000-04:00

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FALL COLOURS AND CANDLES

2009-09-22T21:30:00.003-04:00

Well a few things have been going on...fall is setting in and with that, thankfully or not, the routine. As much as I love summer, especially this past one, I like the routine that fall brings.
One downside is that we found out that Chris' daughter had to discontinue her college classes, as her student visa hasn't yet arrived. What an anticlimax on many levels...so she has to wait till next session in Jan to restart. In the meantime, to keep herself busy, she has started a hugs fresque on the ceiling of her bedroom and just began guitar lessons.
It was my daughter Cleo's bday last sunday...19 yrs old! She celebrated with friends the eve, at a club and came out for a supper in Montreal on sunday.

In other news, my sore kneck and back was acting up, so I have begun a scedule of massage therapy. OMG! I should have done this yrs ago! Luckily, Chris' insurrance covers a good amount for that, each yr...and restarts in Jan, so thankfully I can get a number of massages untill the end of the yr. By then, all my kinks and kricks will be worked out lol...When I was taking jewelry classes last spring, one of the women I befriended happened to be a massage therapist. We hit it off right away, and bonus is she speaks english even! lol

The first massage I got, I swear I felt like a walking bruise for 3 days...I told her that next time, she might as well, grab me by the feet, swing me around to slap my body against the walls...them jump up and down on me while wearing hiking boots...then tie me in a double knitting knot...that way I may not hurt so much LMAO!!!
One of the things I must do however is take a hot bath with some essential oils, as often as I can to help the muscles. It had to forse myself to make the time but it has become something I enjoy...we really should make the time just for us....To make the experience even better, I was given a terrific gift as a house warming present from my dear friend Anna. It is one of those metal thingys you put across the bathtub that holds up a book or magazine, a glass of wine if u want etc...I LOVE IT!...I always think of Anna when I am wet and naked now LOL!.. I have taken to reading magazines in there..it holds the mag perfectly! I love jewelry mags and decor mags, the O mag also...and I ofcourse found another seasonal centerpiece idea this week lol...finished 2 today. One for the living room and another for the centre of my kitchen island. Tell me what u think..Click on pics to make bigger...

A few more pics in flickr....I put tea lights under the bigger ones that I put holes in...using a drill bit lol...I chose gourds that had nice shapes and colours...the rectangular glass dish actually cost 2$ at the dollar store and the other bamboo one that has a neat shape was from one of those kitchen stores..It actually caught Chris' eye...and only cost 12$ and the gourds were not expensive. Both dishes will be used for many things...and I amused myself putting these together...however, I vow to buy myself a nice little drill set with diff bits ...the tools I used weren't great so it took me hours lol..

I am currently kicking around some decorating ideas for the office/guest room...we decided to take the computer desk out of there, as the family room is huge and had lot's of room...hense freeing up much space in the office for guest room...I love this part...the ideas part..lol...will keep u up to date lol...

SUMMER IS OVER...

2009-09-09T02:03:00.003-04:00

So it's sad but true...Sept is here, hense its OVER!! Thankfully we had a beautiful labor day weekend so we made sure enjoy the pool. We won't be heating it past this weekend. ...
We had lot's of BBQ ...hotdogs sat, and hamburgers on sunday and monday was corn on the cob and lot's of it lol!
I also made a really cute center piece...I saw it in a magazine and thought, it was a great idea...Take 3 apples, hollow them out, (if u add abit of lemon juice to the water, it will prevent them from going brown right away)...then I cut some of the flowers I have growing around the house...turned out really cute if I do say so myself! Here is a photo....Click twice to see the full view..

Thankfully I had a lot's of colours to choose from...Next yr, I may try with other fruit, like melons or oranges..
Hope you all had a nice long weekend...

Welcome to my home...please come in ...

2009-08-16T11:33:00.003-04:00

Front entry ....
Below, is hallway...the watercolour above the antique buffet was done by Chris' father..

Fireplace in the living room...above it is a pastel done by Chris' father also...

Living room...

Kitchen...

Master bedroom..

Mater bathroom..and behind the mirrored door is my walk in closet..YES I KNOW!!! OMG!

Family room downstairs...

Pool room...

Thats just a few pics I put on her, many more in the flickr, just double click on any of these to go there....I have a few things to do yet, like find some artwork for our bedroom, ...get a high bar table for the pool room to go with the high stools I have...but for the most part, its done! I need a day bed for the office for company and maybe in a yr or 2 I can get a nice bedroom set lol...that will go well with the beautiful lounge chair that Chris had brought from France...

We had our housewarming party yesterday! It was a total success!! Everyone had a blast, enjoyed the pool and I was so happy to have a house full of guests to bless my home with laughter, fun and lot's of love...we had 28 ppl here at one point and we also recieved some lovely gifts from our friends ...the weather was awesome and we couldn't have asked for a better day!! I will share some photos of the party soon....

BEEN BUSY

2009-08-09T08:53:00.002-04:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a few! Anyone who has moved, knows the million and one things that have to be done! I am pretty much done with the main floor of the house. I am pretty much satified with the touches of decore I have made here. The downstairs is not even close though lol, but that will be done soon, along with the office being organized.
The most important really was getting the clients rooms sorted out. We also got a new client already! So that makes 3 living here. I have room for one more, to share with our blind/mute client...so it will be a client with high needs like him. Our new one is a nice gentleman, with downs syndrome..seems to fit in very well here.

As for the rest, well, we have also been trying to get out with the kids, as Chris was on holidays. He returns tomorrow WHAAA! We had some really fun days though...I put a bunch of new pics in flickr if interested, just double click on any pic I post on here to go see them.
My fav is this vintage type pic we had taken at Montreals amusement parc, called LA RONDE... I surprised everyone, by getting on ALL the rides! Yes I can still do it lol...had a blast!

Old Montreal above...La Ronde below...We loaded Chris with all the prizes won lol!

I am hoping to have my house warming party this coming Sat...so I better have most of whats left, done! Once I am satified, I will take indoor photos...we have family that have been very patient waiting to see lol...especially Chris' parents in france who don't have a computer..so I will have to send them pics via snail mail.

Hugs to all, more to come soon, I promise!

A FEW PICS

2009-07-20T11:00:00.002-04:00

Finally a photo with the sun shining! I love the entrance and the gorgous landscaping. I am just starting to get an idea of the perenials here! I have alot of weeding to get to also! lol...For right now though, we are still unpacking!

The day we moved in, we stepped out onto the deck in the back, and had the gift of a rainbow! That's a good sign in my book! LOL

It has been raining alot here but thankfully yesterday was a nice window of time with hot weather, for Chris and his kids to enjoy the pool, although overcast it was humid ..so they really enjoyed it!

So there are a few pics, more in flickr...We are just so thrilled to be here and settling into our new house. We went back to the old house this weekend for the last few things left behind and I washed all the cupboards and floors to leave it spic & span ..I know I sure appreciated this house being clean when I arrived..Although I wiped down all my kitchen shelves and doors here a day before moving stuff in, I was amazed at how clean it was left...unlike some places I have moved in the past...OY VEY!.....So we closed the door for the last time, on the old house...it was a great house that served me well at the time I bought it, during a turning point in my life..when I left one life to start a new one. Not an easy task but one I will always be greatful for as my forethought to do the most difficult thing was the right decision...My life today attests to that.
This new house is totally due to the joint efforts of Chris and I together...Our first home chosen together. We hope to live here many many yrs!
So for now, back to unpacking lol...more pics to come ...

WE GOT THE KEYS TO OUR NEW HOUSE TODAY!

2009-07-09T23:12:00.003-04:00

Today was a super day for Chris and I ! We closed on our new house! OUR DREAM HOUSE! It was wonderful unlocking the front door for the first time.
This post wont be long but I was told lastnight by my dear friend Anna, that she better see me twirling in my new kitchen! Well here it is Anna....I hate seeing myself on video but I promised so I hope you are happy! LOL..

This weekend we will bring as much stuff to the house as we can. I was able to wash all the inside and outside of my kitchen cupboards tonight. So by Tuesday, when the moving co. comes to move our big stuff, most everything else will already be in the new house! I can't wait! So hopefully lot's of photos will be taken soon!

Thanks to all for such lovely comments of encouragement!

IT'S ACTUALLY HAPPENING!

2009-06-20T11:01:00.001-04:00

We accepted an offer on our house lastnight! OMG it is actually happening! We are so excited!
We could actually be moved into the house above by the 2nd week of July...
I have been almost holding my breath since the moment we saw this house the very first time....part of me never really believed that it could happen. It answers all our needs on so many levels.
If lucky, we will be all moved in before Chris' children arrive on the 11th of july! How cool is that!
I am beside myself with excitement, emotion, and a million other things going through my head, not to mention counting boxes in my head ....oh I need bubble wrap! lol
WEll, many many photos will be posted when the time comes..I have to many ppl already wanting to see everything...untill the house is actually ours, the photos I have already wont be posted..but I just had to show u the front atleast lol.
All your well wishes and encouragements up till now have been very appreciated and I am sure they worked in our favour karmicly lol!

3 YEARS ALREADY!

2009-06-09T16:02:00.003-04:00

I just got these flowers delivered to me. Beautiful aren't they! There was also a little pc mouse stuck amongst them on a stick lol! I have been looking for one for a while now. He apparently found one and had the bright idea to have them add it to the bouquet LOL

When I called him at work to thank him for the flowers, he asked if they had a rodent problem lol...what a goof...Yes hun, I found the mouse in there lol.

It's hard to believe it has already been 3 yrs today that we got married. Time flys when your having fun!

Tonight we go for a nice meal out at a fav resturant.

Even with the pouring rain out, it's still such a beautiful day!

SO MUCH HAPPENING!

2009-05-14T20:16:00.000-04:00

WOW, where to start.
Ok, well, those who read me, know that we have been working on our downstairs. My once sewing room had to be revamped into a bedroom. We also had our room to repaint and fix up. Long over due. I hadn't mentioned why we started all this. We wanted to wait till it was official.

Chris' daughter will be living with us! We are very happy. Both his son and daughter were coming from France for the summer but his daughter isn't going back. She will start college here in sept. I am also thrilled for Chris to have atleast one of his children here. Hopefully his son will come in a cpl yrs to do the same.
More news still.....
We have known for a long time that we need a bigger house. Just reading the above, proves that point lol. I have however always hoped that I could have another client or two.
I have kept an eye open on houses for sale, out of curiousity and my own wish and dream that it could somehow happen some day. It happens that I saw an open house for one that was very interesting. I told Chris I thought we should go have a look. We have in past, seen a few show homes in new developements but as nice as they were, there was always something that wouldn't work for us. Specially given the needs one of our clients has..needing to be on a main floor all the time etc
Anyway, this was the first lived in home I have wanted to go see. It was more then I thought we could afford but it was stronger then me...I thought we should go see it.
We did...OMG it is a beautiful home! It also met all our needs and then some! I fell in love and so did Chris. It's our dream home and a place I could even have 2 more clients plus a room for each of our children....yes it has 7 bedrooms!
As Chris said, we have to try to see if its a posibility so we called the bank.
Cost nothing to try, and you lose more if u didn't and regret it always. So we saw our banker and it's taken a week but after crunching the numbers, it would seem that WE HAVE THE FINANCING! YAY! We have to sell our house ofcourse..but that's ok. We retained the agent selling the other house, we already have a sign on the lawn and we have been working like crazy getting the downstairs ready. After the initial sewing room clean, we hadn't gotten alot done, since we had lot's of time. Since this has happened, we havent stopped for 5 days. Painting, putting a new floating floor down in the former sewing room.Our room is now painted also...the rest of the downstairs is a mess from doing all that but we rented a storage space to put alot of the extra stuff we have. De clutter, de personalize, make it airy for showing. We have our first visit on Saturday...we are exhausted but happy and excited lol.We aren't going to do that headboard or paint my sidetables since we are hopefully moving. We will keep sewing room as an office like space also. All the things I got to make a pretty room for her will be used in the new home.

I have packed about 13 boxes already, cleaning out the uneeded things in my closet and labeled them all MASTER BEDROOM SUITE... I figured I should think positive, even not knowing if we had financing or not.
Right now we are getting more excited...I am visializing living there. This would be a perfect path to our retirement. In a house like that, being able to expand my work. I could put in another 15-20 yrs doing that then sell that house to retire. We would have ample room for all and even when the kids move on, we can use their rooms for clients if we wanted. It's all good and at a time when interest rates are much lower.
I am so excited! So is Chris! It will be our first house bought together and a home we could share with all our children together!
Send good thoughts our way, I am convinced they help. Wish for us that our house sells and all goes smoothly for us.

Will keep you posted....

5TH CLASS & A CPL ORIGINALS

2009-04-09T19:15:00.000-04:00

So I finished the 5th and last class for this series. I really enjoyed them all. Some techniques, I could take or leave but you never know when something your learned will come in handy. I have signed up for the Intermediate 5 class series in May. It depends on demand so I hope they schedule a weekend slot so I can go.

Of the 5 classes, this necklace is my least favorite. The technique is usefull however. How to integrate 2 or more stands to a necklace etc...My choice of beads was overkill lol, I have such a hard time choosing colours being colour blind that when I find something that works, I just go with it...plus not having alot of time before class, makes me rush, so this necklace turned out too bulky/big for my taste. No worries because I can take it apart and use the beads for something different...the focal point on this one is really pretty though, I will definately do something with everything on this necklace, just not together lol.

Closer view...

I have had some fun coming up with a cpl original designs of my own. Just fooling around. I made 2 of the one below....

I gave one to my cousin for her bday..she loved it...and kept one for myself and got many comments..and my daughter wants me to make her one like it, but with a shorter chain...

Finally, my last experiment. I had fun fooling around. If I can make something non cemetrical, I will lol.....I wore is out and got nice comments on it...I think you will either like it or hate it lol....

So that's it for jewelry so far...I have been having fun, shopping for beads online...have to be carefull to not go overboard lol.

We are still working downstairs, getting stuff organized...so to start decoration..as soon as we get our income taxes, I can order the new bedding sets I like for my bedroom and the other former sewing room that will become a bedroom. I have taken all the before pics!! I can't wait to take the AFTER!...This weekend I am in search of an old door..something with character if possible. We are going to check out a huge flee market..if we dont find one, I will just buy one from the hardwear store or $50..like the ones u can use in the house , that arent just flat...WHY?... well, I don't have a headboard or nice bedroom set, so I will paint a door and screw it to the wall behind my bed. To work as a headboard. I have some ugly bedside tables I am using now..that I plan on painting the same colour, probably black...Recycling and reusing lol...hopefully the total effect will look nice.

Happy EAster for those who celebrate ...Happy long weekend for those who don't lol.

BRAIN FART

2009-03-29T00:34:00.001-04:00

After a long shower tonight, I am standing in the tub, drying myself off, working my way down. I then realize I only shaved ONE leg! WTF!..
ARGHHHH

3RD INSTALLMENT OF MOON JEWELRY LOL

2009-03-23T11:06:00.000-04:00

Another class, another technique...This week we learned how to make the necklace ourselves from A to Z. Meaning that with only a spool of aluminum wire, we could make everything including the hook clasp and connecting loops...The beads we obviously didn't make lol. I finished the necklace lastnight...along with a bracelette and earings to match this time. Our homework (if we want ) was to come up with earings that would go well with our necklace. So with out futhure adieu....

Above is a better view of the hook clasp I made. Below is just to show how pretty the beads are. Then bracelette last...

In other news, we are still working hard on the downstairs rooms. Got alot done this weekend. My friend came over for supper Sat. with her sweety...she helped me sort through hords of incases* and took aprox 8 boxes...YES , I SAID 8 BOXES!!.. of STUFF home lol. What a relief!! I am so glad someone will use it or get pleasure from having all sorts of fabrics and crafting stuff. She is a quilter, so it really works out perfectly!!

So I have actually started to see the light!! Through the tunnel of organizing I have done so far. YAY!.. Chris also got the closet organizer up on the one wall, in that new catch all closet in our room...YAY!...Today I can put all his clothes there and and see what I can fit of mine also...lol...(Yes, isn't it easy for us woman to encrouch on our mens closet space? lol

I Really can't wait till the actual decorating begins lol!!!

2ND NECKLACE & A NEW WAR IS WAGED!!

2009-03-16T15:59:00.001-04:00

So another jewelry course, another necklace...this one is a totally different technique from the first, as u can see. I am really enjoying this course and the ladies are starting to losen up. First course we are all so serious and intent..second course, it's nice to see familiar faces and we are starting to talk abit more. I also found out that there is another intermediate 5 class course that follows this one. YAY!! SIGN ME UP!... So voila....ma seconde collier...

In other news, we are reoganizing , purging, painting, and hopefully soon decorating two rooms downstairs. My bedroom for one, and my sewing room to become another bedroom.

I have to ask...how in gods names do we accumulate SO MUCH CRAP...I think we could call it IN CASE SYNDROME.....I swear we look at this and we look at that and think, I will keep this just IN CASE I could use it some day....then u stick it in any available crevace u can!! Usually forgetting all about it..hense buying what u need SOME day, cause u forgot where u put that INCASE item, when u needed it in the first place..I am also positive that all those INCASEs, have some sort of copulation capabilities, cause they seem to just continually multiply!! overtake!! and creep all over the place! Even attacking when u least expect it! Opening any door, or closet can be lethal!! I think I was yrs overdue from attacking back. The war has been waged and I am going to win, even if it kills me!! When that happens, you can call me the INCASE-ANATOR!!!

MY FIRST JEWELRY PROJECT

2009-03-08T23:10:00.000-04:00

Today was the 1st of 5 classes on jewelry making in a local bead store here. I thought it would be fun and get me out of the house for a few hours. Luckily one of the choices was Sunday mornings, which works perfectly for me since Chris is home.

We will learn 5 different techniques and I actually get to talk to other woman! I was pleasantly surprised and amazed how fast 3 hours flew by! So here is my first project....I plan to do some earings and a bracelette to match this week.....

Let me add that, this is not an original idea, I wish I could take credit for it. We had a bunch of different examples of necklaces made with the crimping technique to give us ideas. I chose one similar to this one as insperation..I used different colours and it looks like a cousin of the one that was in the store lol...It's certainly different but I like it..

MY 46TH BIRTHDAY

2009-03-06T15:56:00.000-05:00

So basically, at 46, I am clinging to my mid 40's by the skin of my finger nails...next yr I will be in my LATE 40's!!...That said, thankfully I am not one of those people who gets depressed with each passing year, HONEST.. I still get excited each year on my bday...I always feel special on my bday no matter what.

So this year we continued the tradition by going to the Montreal casino...it's always a treat!

We didn't win big, or bring any extra home but we had fun with the budget we set, it lasted quite a while..but it totally amazes me how many ppl are there at all hours, betting thousands of dollars!!

Before going there however we did go out for a very nice meal...Chris had a nice steak...

I had an entre of yummy Escargo Gratinee, followed by butterfly shrimp...I only ate the shrimp , no room for anything else lol...

And ofcourse, we took the typical photos...

Him staring at my cleavage...then pretending all innocense when I call him on it!......See the look of "WHAT??"....

I had to also take some pics of myself...update the profile pic etc, so it was the perfect time to try the cam that my new laptop has in it...

So there u have it, that was my 46th birthday, and it was wonderful, and filled with birthday wishes from so many friends and family..online and offline..I am truelly blessed, Thank you all very much!!! It made my day that much more special!!

SNIFFING SNOW & GETTING COZY

2009-02-23T23:38:00.001-05:00

Tayo loves to stick his nose in the snow...I just had to take a pic of it all stuck to him...he seems to say...MOM, I am not eating the yellow snow HONEST!

double click to see all 3 in photo

Above is our night time set up. Even our fur balls need covering up during our winters lol. We have our bedroom downstairs where its alot colder then anywhere else in the house...so during the winter, we add a blanket....and they usually even work there heads under the covers...I got this pic just before they did that lol. It's a ritual each night, they take there places on the coushins and wait for me to wrap them up with the blanky lol.

I thought I would finally take a pic, because every night just before I turn off the light, I look down at them and it makes me smile every time lol.

We all need to keep warm during these cold winters!!

SMART HUSBAND

2009-02-21T18:40:00.001-05:00

I have been putting off cleaning the over flowing coat closet. It's a big job that I will eventually get to, honestLY! The worst part is really the humungus hord of shoes piled up at the bottom of said closet. Boots, shoes, sandels, thongs..u name it, there is everykind of footwear huddled down there.

So the other day my husband says............"Seriously hun...how do you women begin to accumulate so many shoes?"

To which, I just looked up.....gave him THE LOOK.....

Hubby help up his hands in surrender....."OK, OK, I forgot.....they follow you home...sorry."

I lowered my gaze to resume what I was doing...thinking ofcourse...how lucky I was to have such a smart husband.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!

2009-02-14T09:36:00.000-05:00

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A MOMENT OF SILENCE

2009-02-10T13:20:00.002-05:00

OK, that's enough. My laptop died...it let me down, it kicked the bucket, it bit the bullet, it went caput..u get the picture.

Sent it to the pc doc for a complete diagnostic. They tried fluids, they tried shooting high pressured air into it, they tryed electric shock therapy but alas, they concluded that only specialized surgery would repair the damage. Surgery that wasn't covered by the warranty that ran out TWO MONTHS AGO!! How sad is that!!

So given this bad news, we realized we were much better off replacing it, rather then pump new money in an old laptop that could die just as easily.

After more then 2 weeks without my laptop, I realized my sanity was also in jeopardy. Day time tv is enough to drive anyone nuts....

So thankfully, I was able to get a new one last weekend...one I had seen before xmas that I really liked. Being xmas it wasn't the time..nor did I need one then. The good news is that we paid ALOT less then the price we saw it selling for in Dec. YaY!

In other news...speaking of diagnostics...we are still waiting for results from the different tests Chris underwent. He is still having the same symtoms of irregular heart beats, along with headaches. Some days are better then others, we haven't figured out what makes it so. He no longer has any caffeine and he returned to doing his work outs and back to work...We just hope to get some answers to know what the plan is from there.

We appreciate all the inquiries about his health...Hopefully we will have some concrete answers..In the meantime, he will be fine...because if he isn't I will kill him!
PS... Because I lost everything on my harddrive, I have to reconstruct my blog list..so bare with me..I will visit the blogs I can get back to, through past and present comments made here...hopefully I will have my list back soon.

GOOD FRIENDS

2009-01-24T16:26:00.001-05:00

This is one of my best friends of over 20 years. Francine and I met shortly after I arrived in Montreal in a factory we both worked at. We hit it off right away and have seen each other go through major ups and downs in our lives over the years and lived to to tell about it lol. We don't get to see eachother often, as she lives over a hour away but when we do, it's always a treat.

Below is a photo of them and their dogs. They are a dog foster family for a foundation called MIRA. Mira trains the to be seeing eye dogs for the blind, or companion dogs for the handicapped etc. The red scarves u see on the dogs allows them to go everywhere. Resturants, malls, hospitals...as puppies and untill they are taken in for full training, they must be aclimatized to all situations everywhere...among crowds and public places. They love doing this although it's difficult to part with the dogs when its time. They realize however that they will help someone else down the road so that softens the loss.

We went to their house over the holidays for a great meal and good company.

The dogs are very affectionate so we got cuddles alot. What a difference these to big dogs make compared to our 3 small ones lol!!

This dog above is Jenna. She passed all the testing and training for the hardest training as a seeing eye dog. Unfortunately..a few months into the program they realized she had a small health issue so couldn't use her. Fortunately it's not something serious and the foster family are the first to get the opportunity to buy her. So they did!

Above is Magpie. When they got her, she could fit in our hands! She will soon be going back to Mira for her training. She passed many tests already so they know she will be trained to accompany and help a handicapped person. Each dog has different talents and strengths which are determined by many tests they do on the dogs.

Last but not least, my dear friends Francine and her partner Claude. Francine is my friend without saying..Claude I met about 10 yrs ago when she started dating him and I can sincerely say I consider him a friend also. Big teddy bear that we always have a good laugh with. But most important, he adores Francine!

As for my Francine, well, she is the kind of friend you just know will be there commiserating with you when we are 80, if we make it that far lol. She is also that friend you can call no matter what. Good days and bad...to lend a shoulder or a slap on the back and no matter what, we can always make eachother laugh!

I love her very much.

I can only hope everyone has a friend like that.

TESTING THE BIONIC MAN?

2009-01-14T19:06:00.001-05:00

OK, he is MY bionic man..but actually he is wearing a 24 hour heart monitor.

We had a scare last week. Chris is never one to complain about anything, ESPECIALLY is health! But last week, he was off* and it persisted...his heart kept having iregular beats...when he finally told me later that evening I took his pulse and couldn't believe how odd they were. Not fast at all, nor was he in pain. He nevertheless had a very odd cold feeling in his chest. So as far as I was concerned one shouldn't delay treatment with the heart, u never know!

We called an ambulance. The EMT hooked him up to a machine and they saw it emediately. So off he went. I was unable to go as our boarders always need supervision here.

Once there, he was hooked to a bigger monitor, and they saw the very irregular beats also, but thankfully, with normal pulse and BP he was in no apparent danger....so he was put into triage..as more pressing cases were arriving...snow storm had alot of accidents coming in.....so.....12 hours later.......as patient as he had been, Chris finally had enough. When he informed the nurse that he was leaving, she admitted that it could still be hours till a doctor had more time but that basically he was in no real danger, and he was better off seeing his doctor at the clinic. ......I am sorry he had to wait so long to know that..timing with snow storm was bad but I am thankful he was in no danger and we knew it at that point.

So he saw a doctor the next day...who told him to get off the coffee...and gave him a blood work to get done. Chris went back to work the next day to ...feel horrible that evening. Enough to come home early (THAT NEVER HAPPENS)... Still with heart beats off, but also nausious and huge headache....We thought the detox from no coffee had something to do with that also. He was a BIG coffee drinker. He tryed another day at work and again, wasn't himself at all.

So back to doctor....who gave him this week off...with a few more tests to get done.

This heart monitor is one of them...he went in early, they shaved across his chest THANKGOD! and hooked him all up. He wears it for 24 hrs at home then returns it next day.

As he was gingerly trying to remove the tape ...the nurse, with a sadistical grin on her face I am sure...say...Oh No, that's not how it's done. She took a handfull of his t-shirt in one hand and the edge of the tape in the other and RIPPED IT OFF IN ONE SWOOP!!...

OUCH!... Although he was glad, and SO relieved that they had shaved part of him the day before....let's just say...it brought a teeny weeny tear to his eye. ......He told me as he made sure to grunt like Tim the Tool Man Taylor.

He had done a bloodwork and we are waiting for a brain scan. He has had a constant headache for over a week.

His only concern with the brainscan is that all they will see is that he has BOOBS ON THE BRAIN... what a goober ..(eye roll here)

So..the good news is he is home this week...he is getting tests done to find out whats up ..and although this is happening, he is quite healthy all in all. He works out, eats well, and keeps his wife very happy...These are all very good things lol.

UMANY...........ENJOY!

2009-01-09T23:17:00.002-05:00

This is UMANY. A new rock group based in Quebec that are really good! You may accuse me of being abit biased but that's ok lol. They are still good! Most out there will still enjoy the tune, regardless of it being in french.

The guitarist, who you only see in shadow and rain on the video is my daughter Cleo's, boyfriend. He is also our neighbour 2 doors down and is sincerely a really nice guy. He not only plays the guitar but does ALOT of the producing and editing and painstaking work behind the scenes of their music.

They have appeard on tv's MUSIQUEPLUS, the french equivilent to MUCHMUSIC here in Quebec and countless radio interviews. Check out their UMANY website.

Please go visit Cleo's bf's site also..FRANCIS DUCHESNE ! He does plan to do some english music in future also.

I sure hope all their hard work starts to pay off! Doing what you love is great but being a starving artist get's old lol. It's far from easy street and being on tv changes nothing, it just helps get exposure. Like Francis said in an interview...It would be really nice to put more then just $10 of gas in my car at a time lol....I hope for them that things will get easier. They have some shows and festivals lined up for this year.....fingers crossed!!!

I posted this photo of Cleo and Francis, last post but here it is again.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2009-01-02T02:39:00.000-05:00

My tree above, has no ryme or reason. It has old things and new. treasures of all sorts..some given as gifts, others made by hand either by my sister, myself or ornaments handed down to me that are very old. I took a bunch of closeup photos like this..I purposely didn't use the flash to get that glow that makes it a Christmas tree. Each year, when I do the tree, each thing I take out of the box to put on the tree means something to me. Each has a memory,each are special.

For some odd reason, Tayo just has to be under the tree. As soon as I put it up, just like last year, he seems feel like it's his place. As I added presents underneath, he had less and less room to sit..till finally there was none lol. Just as soon as we got rid of them xmas eve after midnight, he was right back under there lol.

Each year, I put up string to hold all the xmas cards we recieve..the paper bow you see in the middle is one of my favorite decorations. My sister Nicole made it for me years ago, the bells hanging from it, are actually little painted seed pots...I take it out each year.

This is my rustic Santa, the little tree he holds actually has tiny lights lol. He gets a spot on the entry table, next to my umbrella stand.

My daughter Cleo and her bf Francis. He also happens to be a neighbour. Nice guy , we like him alot. He is also a musician. Or should I say, starving artist lol. I will add some links of his band on another post..they have actually appeared on TV a cpl times,on Musicplus the french equivilant of Muchmusic here.

Christmas Eve, Keyshawn and Cleo had fun together...It was great having a little one here to open gifts. Nothing like the stars in their eyes when they open a gift!

That evening, we played good old Monopoly. As you can see all the Hotels on there..I was the first one out lol. It was cut throat let me tell ya...See the look on Chantals face? If looks could kill!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So those are just a few pics I loaded to flickr..double click on anyone of these to see all of them. We had a quiet but very nice Christmas season.

Lastnight..New Years Eve, it was just Chris and I sharing a bottle of Ice Cider..as Cleo was out with her bf and the clients were in bed. We couldn't have been happier.

I can look back at the last year and be thankful for many special memories..and hope many more will follow in the new year to come.

I hope your wishes for the new year come true and good health abounds to enjoy them!

AHHH THE FOOD!!!!!

2008-12-29T20:11:00.001-05:00

Our Christmas is actually on the Eve. We have always opened our gifts at midnight on xmas eve. However, before that happens, we usually prepare a buffet for the evening. Everyone munches on that and usually go back for more many times lol. Cleo and her cousin Chantal below doing just that.

Each year I make a few old tryed and true things like egg salad sandwiches and ham sandwiches..we also have lots of crisp veggies with a choice of dips, cold cut platter, coleslaw or salad etc. This year Chris wanted to add some new things so he came up with a few new hors doeuvres as did I.

To help organize our work, Chris came up with a cute system. He wrote each dish we had planned on a post-it note, and stuck them on the cubboard door. We had so many that it made it easier to see them written out for us...as we finished one plate he would stick the corrisponding note onto another cubboard door..made it easy to keep track . Below is what that looked like...it was a great idea lol

This is the list, some of which may not sound yummy to some(especially in english lol) but they were all devine! delicious! delectable! I assure you!

Canape au fromage bleu et noix (blue cheese & nut canape)

Canape au chevre et raisin (goat cheese & grape slice canape)

Pruneau au bacon (prune rolled with bacon)

Viande froide (cold cuts)

Croutes du crevettes et poire( Shrimp/cheese & pear cups)

Couronne de crevettes( Shrimp platter)

Legumes cru et trempette (Veggies with 3 different dips)

Morceaux de fromage et autres ( Cheese plate with pickes, olives etc)

Salade de choux (Coleslaw)

Canape au Sammon fume et creme freshe( Smoked salmon with fresh cream with chives)

Canape au foie gras (goose liver canapes)

Champinions farcie (stuffed mushrooms)

Sandwich au jambon et oeufs ( egg & ham sandwiches)

Served with a local Ice Cider we love.

We had deserts of chocolate fudge I make each year , home made cookies, and an assortment of 4 types of individual cheese cakes that were to die for..(that I didn't make myself)

This was the food portion of our program today lol. Hope you enjoyed...now I wish we hadn't eaten it all! I am hungry again!

CHRISTMAS LETTER 2008

2008-12-26T01:36:00.001-05:00

Now that most of my xmas cards have been recieved, I can post this years Christmas letter.

As another year flies by, I hope this letter finds you all well. We have had a few highlights this year. To start I guess it's unnecessary to mention we all survived being buried under 10 feet of snow last winter! Wow..it brought back childhood memories of one year in Fernie BC when we couldn't see the house across the street because the snow banks were so high. Dad actually fell off the roof while shovelling that year but didn't suffer a scratch!

Chris was like a kid in a candy store with each snow fall..he loves our Canadian winters. Every chance he gets to call home to shock his family with the weather status is a joy for him!

In April I was able to escape the remaining 8 feet of snow, as Chris took me home to France. I can't begin to express how welcome I felt and how enchanted I was with the country of my ancestors. Ironically, although we left a harsh winter, last spring in Paris was uncharacteristically cold. So everyone enjoyed making fun of the Canadian girl who was freezing! Let's make one thing clear. I dressed for a famous spring time in Paris and I had also lost 80lbs in the last year so this chick felt like she had no plumage on a few different levels! Thankfully we had some nice weather also.

My accent was a source of much amuzement all across France. Although I am fluent my accent isn't quite quebecoise nor is it english...so Chris had to translate a few things..as much for me as for them!

I must say I had the best tour guide. Chris drove over 4300 klms with the rental car! We spent some days in Paris, his parents live near Versailles and his sister Frederique and husband Chef Bernard, have a restaurant in the region of Normandie. I swear I have never eaten anything so good in all my 45 years on this earth!

We also went to the Haut Pyreennes to stay with his grandmother. It is 1 hour from Spain, so we spent a day there. We also had Chris' daughter Mahault age 16 and son Thomas age 14 with us for 2 weeks. It was a great time scouting out castles to visit and sites to see together. As we travelled towards Brittany where the kids live, we stopped in the Basque region...in Biarritz, a beach on the atlantic famous for great surfing and ofcourse topless sunbathers. I decided to refrain from exposing my ample attributes only because I didn't want to make the locals jealous or block out the sun, which ever came first...cough cough. It was hot and beautiful so the kids got their suits out to swim..and Chris and I had fun getting our feet wet on the shore.

We made our way to Brittany as the kids holiday was over..to then go onto visit a sight to be seen in ones lifetime. Mont Saint Michel. It was jaw dropping to see something built over 1000 yrs ago. Like a fortress raised above the ocean out of nowhere like a fantasy. We spent hours exploring and had supper there. To finally drive 4 hours back to Versailles. Our travels over the weeks had us almost going in a full circle.

The last week took us to the city of Lafleche in Normandie from where my paternal family ancestor came from. In 1653 Michel Bouvier among others travelled to Montreal when it was being colonized. I had the privilage to meet the towns culteral attachee who greeted us with a warm welcome. I was also presented with a beautiful book published of the the history of that very voyage. We also recieved a book of present day Lafleche depicted with lovely photos . I was taken to the archives to actually hold the oldest book of registrar they had. Written on the second page was the baptism of our ancestor in 1633! Had he been born 1 month earlier, they would not have had that record! The gentleman then spend an hour with us walking around the town center showing us many landmarks and the church where the baptism actually took place! It was quite an experience for me.

It was truelly a trip of a lifetime. His whole family also made me feel very welcome. Imbarrasingly for Chris, I got to hear all the childhood horror stories he was a part of growing up.

Last summer, we stuck close to home. Our deck needed to be rebuilt. It had seen better days so Chris rebuilt it with Cleo's help. I had visions of them killing themselves, swinging 8 foot planks around like Laurel and Hardy..but they did a great job. Cleo has never been afraid of power tools..unlike her mom. Give me a a sewing machine and a stapler anyday but just going near *man* tools gives me the heebeejeebees. (psst Truth be told, I always figured if I learned how to operate them I would be expected to actually use them...they fall under the same catagory as lawn mowers and snow blowers...not going there!)

Cleo is very busy in college in an arts program. She is still doing her classical piano lessons and learning guitar. Needless to say, she has a full plate. Oh and her hair is blue. It actually looks great but incase you are wondering, her father was NOT a smurf.

She turned 18 this past Sept. I think that all parents cosmically age 10 years when their children become adults. Our brain clicks a cog that says..OK what now?.But wait! They are grown, our job is done. I hope my parenting has enabled them to make the right choices for their future. Then we realize, ARE YOU INSANE!? Remember how you were at 18! OMG!.Then our brain reclicks the ..OK what now?!

Well, this sums up the highlights of our year. I wish my letter contained an electrical charge to automatically wake you now as its over. We hope you all have a terrific holiday season and the new year brings you new adventures, good health and happiness.

Till next year..sincerely Monette, Chris and Cleo ...0x0x0x

BEST GIFT IN THE MAIL EVER!!!

2008-12-22T01:17:00.001-05:00

I recieved one of the best gifts ever in the mail! What a total treasure box of goodies! My very good friend Cheri is a baking genius and I am one of the lucky ones who gets to taste the fruits of her labor. I was godsmacked when I recieved this large shoe box FULL to the rim with 13...YES.. 13 different kinds of cookies, squares and confections of all sorts...all individually packed in half dozen bags!

OMG! It's enough to make this fat girl tear up!

But mostly, it's such a gift of time, and loving care. How touching and valuable is that I ask? Needless to mention the fortune it cost to ship across Canada from Victoria BC .

So, thank you again Cheri my dear friend of over 25 yrs..Words are so hard to express , as my mouth is full at the moment!!!!

Eat your hearts out hehe....they are all MINE !!!...oh damn, I better share with my family...lol.

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN

2008-12-14T15:56:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year again...Above is a sample of my hand done caligraphy. My most satifying moment during this time is when I have mailed out all my xmas cards and parcels. It's like a total load off lol.

I actually cut my xmas card list down this year...I only sent out 34..as compared to close to 60 last year. I guess it was time....when you send a card for years and never get one back or even get any news from some ppl, it's time to stop lol. We get in such a habit with such things..we forget to take stock.

NOt to say I only send out a card to recieve one back. I understand that some ppl just aren't into it. If I get a call to say hello, or get an email catching up with me...it's basically about staying in contact. I realized that I had many family and so called friends, on my card list that I haven't even heard from in years...or really never made any sort of effort...I guess I just kept it up out of some sort of personal loyalty. That's done! lol...and I saved over 25$ in stamps!

Cards to me are like a gift of a pretty card and our time ...as I have said before....The time it takes to write a quick word inside, address the envelope, we are thinking of that person. I always put a xmas letter in my cards...and I do the address on the envelope in caligraphy. It's a hobby of mine and I think it just adds a nice touch of special to each envelope.

If it's a card I give personally, I just put the name and then do gold highlights and swirlys to embellish it all, as I did in the above photo.

So there you have it....

Do you have any special personal touches you do for certain things? If so, please share.

I HAVEN'T BEEN AROUND BECAUSE WE HAVE BEEN TRAINING HARD TO BRING YOU THIS.......

2008-11-26T01:31:00.001-05:00

Hope you enjoy the show...we trained a long time...hense my absense for awhile...It's really hard to teach an old dog new tricks I tell ya...Chris had a really hard time with some of the steps!!!

http://moonbeamsincyberspaceblogspot.com/

2008-11-26T01:30:00.001-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

GOOD LUCK, MR. GORSKY

2008-10-24T15:35:00.000-04:00

I recieved this story from a friend in an email. I just had to post it on my blog, first because of my blog name...and second, because I think you will all enjoy this little tidbit as much as I did!!

ON JULY 20, 1969, AS COMMANDER OF THE APOLLO 11 LUNAR MODULE, NEIL ARMSTRONG WAS THE FIRST PERSON TO SET FOOT ON THE MOON.

HIS FIRST WORDS AFTER STEPPING ON THE MOON, 'THAT'S ONE SMALL STEP FOR MAN, ONE GIANT LEAP FOR MANKIND,' WERE TELEVISED TO EARTH AND HEARD BY MILLIONS..

BUT JUST BEFORE HE RE-ENTERED THE LANDER, HE MADE THE ENIGMATIC REMARK 'GOOD LUCK, MR. GORSKY.'

MANY PEOPLE AT NASA THOUGH IT WAS A CASUAL REMARK CONCERNING SOME RIVAL SOVIET COSMONAUT.

HOWEVER, UPON CHECKING, THERE WAS NO GORSKY IN EITHER THE RUSSIAN OR AMERICAN SPACE PROGRAMS.

OVER THE YEARS MANY PEOPLE QUESTIONED ARMSTRONG AS TO WHAT THE 'GOOD LUCK, MR. GORSKY... STATEMENT MEANT, BUT ARMSTRONG ALWAYS JUST SMILED.

ON JULY 5, 1995, IN TAMPA BAY , FLORIDA , WHILE ANSWERING QUESTIONS FOLLOWING A SPEECH, A REPORTER BROUGHT UP THE 26-YEAR-OLD QUESTION TO ARMSTRONG. THIS TIME HE FINALLY RESPONDED.

MR. GORSKY HAD DIED, SO NEIL ARMSTRONG FELT HE COULD ANSWER THE QUESTION.

IN 1938 WHEN HE WAS A KID IN A SMALL MID-WEST TOWN , HE WAS PLAYING BASEBALL WITH A FRIEND IN THE BACKYARD.

HIS FRIEND HIT THE BALL, WHICH LANDED IN HIS NEIGHBOR'S YARD BY THE BEDROOM WINDOWS.

HIS NEIGHBORS WERE MR. AND MRS. GORSKY.
AS HE LEANED DOWN TO PICK UP THE BALL, YOUNG ARMSTRONG HEARD MRS. GORSKY SHOUTING AT MR. GORSKY.

'SEX! YOU WANT SEX?! YOU'LL GET SEX WHEN THE KID NEXT DOOR WALKS ON THE MOON!'

JUST A FEW THINGS

2008-10-01T17:08:00.001-04:00

I just had to post this. When I was shopping last weekend with my daughter for her bday. We went into a kitchen store..and I just burst out laughing when I saw this knife holder! I am glad I found a photo of the exact same one online. It's apparently called the Voodoo Knife holder, I call it HALARIOUS LOL!

You just have to admit, the person who thought of this is either really funny, or just plain psycho! LOL

On a totally different note...I was on my deck this week..when I heard the far away sound of the Geese. It's such an unmistakeable sound. I waited till they came into view. I wasn't dissappointed.

As fall is now here, it's the time for our Canadian Geese to migrate south. I never tire of hearing and seeing this spectacular display. I find it quite remarkable. The thought that they can fly 1000 miles at once is incredible. The V formation has been proven to be very effective in their ability to use aerodynamics ...we learn so much from studying wildlife.

The photo below is one taken by a friend of mine...They are a beautiful bird..and I just love that she captured this one standing on one foot lol. Thanks Amy..great pic.

As much as I would have loved to take a great photo of the canadian geese flying by my home...it never turns out very good. I am thankful that my friend Amy found this really nice one for me. I wanted one of the geese flying in V formation.

I am always stuck with awe when I see this gift of nature in action. As I have read abit about canadian geese, I found out that they are among one of the most talkative birds...from birth they squawk to eachother loudly. It's the reason why we can hear them coming, regardless of how high in the sky they are.

I have found myself watching them and wondering what they are saying to eachother...and I amuse myself by making up convos like....

........Hey Bill, how you doing over there buddy? Want to trade places for awhile?

........Naw, thanks but I think Betsy over there needs a break...do we have room at the back?

........KIDS! For the love of god, stop asking "ARE WE THERE YET?" I swear we will stop so I can tie your beaks shut!!!

As the leaves turn colour and the canadian geese fly by...I know it will soon be time to fill bags full of leaves, clean the garden and flower beds. One of those days outside when you get rosey cheeks, breath in clear fresh air and feel good about preparing your yard for next year. Then we look forward to Thanksgiving then Halloween. There is something special about every season.....and as each comes and goes, we look forward to another.

This thanksgiving Oct 11th weekend...I am really looking forward to it. Chris and I have been invited to spend the weekend at a good friends house. She lives about 2 hours north of us. We don't see her often.

They just spent 2 weeks in France...so our weekend will be to exchange all our stories and photos from France from both our trips. It will be so much fun to recount and share our experiences. Lyn also plans for the weekend menu to be typically french food....OMG I CAN'T WAIT!!

I will have more on that weekend, after it happens lol. 10 days and counting!

OMG MY DAUGHTER IS 18!

2008-09-22T15:37:00.001-04:00

Where has the time gone? Seems like only a few years ago, I held my beautiful baby Cleo in my arms. Now she is officially an ...ADULT!...OMG!...

I am not as freaked out as I seem honestly, but I have been trying to remember all those things she asked permission for over the years..when I answered ....NO WAY!... When you are 18 it will be your choice, untill then, IT'S NOT GONNA HAPPEN!

As I think back, I should be afraid...VERY AFRAID!...I seriously hope she has some of her mom's common sense lol. Never the less, she must make her own mistakes and hopefully learn from them. She is turning out to be a very special young woman. Her future will be filled with adventures and experiences. I hope that some of the things I have tryed to teach her over these years, will have sunk in lol.

I know she will find her own way, In her own way.

In Canada, legal drinking age, varies in the provinces between 18 or 19 yrs old. Here in Quebec it is 18. ...although, not being totally nieve, I do know she has been to a few clubs already...(eye roll)..Now she can be there LEGALLY...(oy vey + eye roll).

Thankfully she refuses to get in a car with anyone who has been drinking or under the influence. Unfortunately, she learned that the hard way...by being in a minor accident for that very reason last year....it scared her enough to make her adiment about it today. Of that I am very thankful.

Below are a cpl funny photos, taken of her last week...She was covered in paint! It was initiation week....hense her colourful attire lol...When she walked in the house after school, I just started laughing LOL!

Atleast the blue went well with her hair LOL!

Her birthday was last saturday the 20th. She spend the day at her dad's house. As she loves music, he got her a decent classical guitar. She has been learning to play ...She has a musician friend teaching her and he is blown away on how fast she is learning. She is also adamant about continuing her piano lessons each week. So far, she is managing all that with her full caseload in college.

Sunday was our day to spend with her. We went shopping in Montreal. She needed some clothes so we had fun finding things she liked. We later went out for supper at one of her fav resturants...along with her best friend Mel and her cousin Chantal. It was a very enjoyable day.

I think she was happy about the whole weekend...I would be. Everyone was very generous, she got spoiled...as it should be...her family is proud of her...

Je t'aime ma belle Cleo..je suis fiere de toi.......0x0x

AS THIS SUMMER COMES TO A CLOSE...

2008-09-08T17:22:00.000-04:00

As this summer comes to a close I have to say that it's been a pretty good one for me. Many here would complain about all the rain we had , and we honestly got alot! I for one, am thankful. I hardly watered my flowers or garden all season ! My flowers are full and brimming and my garden graced us with luscious tomatoes and cucumbers in no time!

This summer I watched my daughter work hard next to her step dad Chris as they rebuilt our deck. They were both so proud of their accomplishment and had fun doing it.

I am also proud as Cleo returns to college this fall. After doing a whole semester last session of just credit courses in order to get into the program she was hoping for, it paid off. She started the arts program last week. It is fun to see how excited she is about it.

A friend of hers took some pretty cool photos of her this summer and tweeked some with colour...this one below is not tweeked however, her eyes really are that colour as is her hair lol. If u want to see the few others, I put them in the flickr..just double click on this to see the others.

I have enjoyed watching the squirrels from the deck, as I am sure they have enjoyed watching us.

Other things I enjoy watching...mmm....oops, sorry, got side tracked by my husbands backside.....just give me a moment.........................................................................

..........BACK to more photos ........ Shinoo, also enjoyed watching the squirrels or the 2 other dogs goofing around as usual....

My flowers never looked better then this year either... even alot fuller then last time I posted a pic....the moon faced statue could still be seen in the past pic, now u can hardly see the top of his head lol

Autumn begins, routines kick in...the leaves start to fall and the flowers will die. Although some may be sad I look forward to the next adventures to come. We must make room for the new growth , the new year, the new things in our lives to sprout.......Ok, in these parts, we usually have to dig ourselves out of banks of snow first but hey, it's all part of the fun lol!

I know many of you out there live in places that have little season changes unlike us. I personally love the change of season, there is something to be enjoyed with every season ...or not lol...and always something to look forward to for the next one.

Do you like the different seasons, or would u prefer to live in a climate that has very little change, no snow, no real fall...you get my drift? What are your thoughts?

FUN WEEK!!

2008-09-02T19:37:00.001-04:00

We had a great time during Judy's visit. Chris had the week off and the weather was actually the best we had all summer! It only rained one evening, and it turned out to be the evening we were at the Montreal Casino, so it didn't matter! LOL....No, we didn't win big, nor did we lose big lol...The fun is in playing a few slots and checking out all 5 floors of the casino. It's pretty cool, having been the France Pavillion for Expo 67.

We also spend time at the old port of MOntreal, took a tour trolley to travel along the length of the port..

Me and Judy on the tour trolley....

We also did the 3 hour drive to Quebec City...always worth the trip, but this summer especially. All summer was full of festivities celebrating their 400th anniversary. It is the oldest settlement in all of North America! ...

We stopped at the base of the Chateau for a snack...I took this photo there, it's one of my favs of Chris, so I had to put it here lol

Boardwalk up at the Chateau Frontenac

We had a great day in Quebec, got alot of walking down most every day we went out. We also enjoyed sitting out on the deck and having lazy days at home or just being goofy.... We went shopping ofcourse...and I had a cpl friends over for supper, the only friends I have here who actualy also speak english, so that Judy had other ppl then just us to talk to for an evening lol!

To be honest, it really seemed like we had gotten together many times before, since we have been chatting atleast 7 yrs...it was actually odd to think it was the first time we were together face to face. So needless to say, we had a great time and I hope she enjoyed her visit.

This last photo was taken on her last day here. Sitting out on the deck wondering where the week went! It was a real treat for me to have a friend here and I think we spend more time laughing then anything else.

Many more photos from our escapades...just double click on any photo here and u will be able to see all of them. Enjoy.

Have you had the pleasure of meeting some great online friends? I know I have asked a similar question...I have known some people to be afraid to meet online aquaintances...I think everything should be done with common sense...and there are very different circumstances ofcourse....What is your overall opinion on the subject?

REAL FRIENDSHIPS

2008-08-15T10:10:00.000-04:00

I am super excited today! One of my long time online chat friends is flying across the country from Vancouver to spend a week with us! I can't wait!

I met Judy online atleast 7 yrs ago. Wow how the time flys. I was chatting with her before I even met Chris in the same chatroom online. We hit it off right away and aways said that some day we would get together.

In the past 2 yrs we have chatted much more. She is even a business partner in SecondLife with me lol. We have our own jewelry line in the virtual world with a nice little store.

I think its been a rare day that we haven't talked in the last 2 yrs, except for being away on vacation etc. I really look forward to spending a week showing her around and just hanging out with her.

I have been very fortunate in the past yrs to meet some online friends and forge life long friendships. I have rarely been disappointed by the meeting of people in real life. Let's face it, sometimes they really don't resemble who they portray themselves to be online. Those are the risks. You smile and when it's over you move on lol, I have been lucky in that, it has only happened a couple times. I will never regret meeting them though. I have made very dear friends over the yrs, because I took the oportunity to meet them when the occasion arose.

Heck, I married one of those people! lol.

So , she arrives tonight. Chris was able to work during the day today, so the timing was perfect to pick her up at the airport when his day is done. Supper will be on the table waiting for them.

One other great thing about having company is that you clean abit deeper then your normal routine lol. My house is pretty clean but man, when company is coming, I make sure no corner is left unclean lol. You know, move all the furniture, do the windows, empty and reorganizing the cutlery drawers lol. So that's what I have been doing all week..but rest assured, its done, so I will be doing NOTHING for the next week while visiting with my friend!

Tomorrow we are taking her to downtown Montreal...this yr they have closed down the Main Street, St.Catherines ST. all summer long like a sidewalk sale. Very cool idea. its a street full of interesting stuff so to be able to walk down the middle of it with the store wears on the street, will be fun. We will probably take her to our fav Smoked Meat restaurant. We plan to do Old Montreal, the Casino, among other things, and this week we will be driving 3 hrs to Quebec City...since this summer is the 400th anniversary, lots has been going on all summer. It is the Oldest part of North America!

We are having friends over for bbq on Sunday. It's supposed to be nice, so we can enjoy the new deck lol. My friend and her bf are among the very few I know here that can speak english lol. Everyone else I know only speaks french. So it will be nice for Judy to have other ppl to talk to then just us lol.

I will be taking pics this week to share ...for now I am off to do some baking and cooking for tonight. ...

Question...Do you often take in your local sights or do u wait for company from abroad to visit, to see them yourselves ?

BLOOMING SUMMER

2008-07-22T17:51:00.000-04:00

Thought I would put some summer in my blog today . I certainly don't presume to be a photographer of any sort..with my little digital camera lol...as quality of closeup will atest too. I do however still enjoy photographing the wonder of the blooms I am fortunate to have in my own yard.

To start, here is the BLOOMING pile of discarded wood in the driveway. We have to bundle it up and haul it to an appropriet dumping ground...unless ofcourse any of you wish to take it to burn? If so, please contact me lol.

Here are some perenials in the back yard...

As I did last winter...I thought it would be fun to remember what the front yard looked like only 4 months ago March. Hard to believe...

....and now....July...

....below..again...March..

..and now...july...

I love to see the flowers filling out...they will look even better next month lol...the ones among the rocks will fill out even more...this has been a great yr, lot's of heat with short thunder storms, then sun again...We are already eating tomatoes and yellow beans from the garden. I already have small cucumbers . We have lots of zuccini flowers started, so they should start soon, first time planting those. The peas are close to being ready to pic...we actually only plant peas to eat them raw lol...its fun, while in the garden to pick and open the pods lol.

Have you planted a garden this yr, if so hows it doing? Ours isn't very big but its fun to go get stuff for dinner directly from our own garden....so satifying to know u helped create from seed, something on your plate!

ALOT OF SCREWING GOING ON!

2008-07-14T04:51:00.000-04:00

This summer the deck needed to be rebuilt. I am not sure how many yrs ago it had been built but it's been atleast 15 yrs. Long before I bought this house 7 yrs ago.

So the plan was to replace all the floor boards and the beams underneath, plus all the cross planks. We only planned to keep the side rails. We will replace those with different ones next yr. Hoping to do front stairs leading down to another open platform next summer. For now we are doing what we can afford ...and prevent one of us (probably me) falling through the damn thing!

Chris had Cleo to help him. She was a huge help and thankfully she isn't afraid of hard work. I just supervised through the doorway, while taking photos lol....(hey, I have to care for Luc our blind guy remember?) ....(was very thankful of that this week lol).

Here they are tearing up the rotten planks....

Damn, some are harder then others!!! ...........

Yeeehaaa...the floor is off!!

Two TOOLS posing with their weapons of choice......YO!

All the new under beams and planks are done...the worst was during a horribly humid day that was 103F...I don't know how they did it!

Last screw on the deck floor!...In all they screwed almost 1200 screws!...Now that's alot of screwing!!

Mom, what do u mean I'm not dressed appropriately? I have my safety glasses on and my steel toed boots......

>mom " Oh nevermind"

OMG! WE ARE DONE!!!

They worked so hard, I am proud of them both!! From tues to sat they really gave it their all. Yesterday was beautiful out, after everything was put back on the deck we enjoyed a nice supper out on our SAFE new deck! ( double click on any pic to go to flicker to see a few more photos to this series if u want)

Anyone else with reno projects this summer? What are u doing? Or just going away on holiday this yr? Share...

CARNIVAL IS IN TOWN!!

2008-06-23T17:43:00.000-04:00

Growing up in a small town, we always got so excited when the travelling Carnival came to town. As a little girl, I remember being so in awe of all the excited noises, the sparkling lights , the smell of cotton candy and popcorn, caramel apples. That curious gypsy way of life the ppl worked there was also intreguing to me.

Oh and the rides were also alot of fun too! LOL

Even now..that little girl feeling flutters inside of me when the Carnival comes to town. I can't wait to take in the the sights and sounds.

Where we live is just a block from the area they set up every yr, next to the Hockey Arena.. So Chris and I walked over there last Sat evening.

The sound of the little ones on the rides, the parents taking photos as fast as they can, at each turn the child gets close lol.

The Games...the prizes..the pull by the vendors...STEP RIGHT UP! ...WIN A PRIZE!..

OH the Screams from the bigger rides!!..The loud music..the teens trying to hold on tight, while flying around at warp speed, all while clinging to the stuffed toy their bf won for them.

I rarely get on those rides anymore. I just enjoy watcing others scream with glee or hyseria lol.

My hero won me a stuffed toy too YAY! I was all giddy like a school girl...I chose a kitty...so our dogs would go nuts tearing it apart lol. It even has a meow build into it.

So I asked Chris to smile pretty with the toy, for the camera....so the good husband that he is...did......

Then I asked him to show us how he REALLY FELT!! about winning his prey.....

He came, and he conquored!!!!.......HE DE MAN!!! ARGH ARGH ARGH!!

So the woman is proud and happy with her MAN... bats her eyelashes looking up at him....As they head home, she glides next to him, with her hand in the crook of his arm, and he saunters, chest puffed out.....all the way home.

Atlast...the new kitty is introduced to the dogs...as u can see Clochette is smitten with the kitten lol..Shinoo could care less...and well Tayo, our boy is no where to be seen as the meowing makes him cry LMAO!!

Needless to say, we had a really nice evening...

The fresh, hot little beignettes, drenched in icing sugar ...we brought home to have with coffee.....was the "icing" on the cake lol.

Do you like the travelling Carnavals or u would rather just go to the big theme parks? I don't mind seeing those pib parks once in a while, but something is to be said for those small carnivals....If it weren't for them, I would never have seen anything like it growing up.

MY BLUE FLOWER AND MY WHITE CLEMATIS

2008-06-15T21:25:00.000-04:00

HAPPY FATHERS DAY TO ALL THE DADS OUT THERE!!

This week, was my daughter (my blue flower) Cleo's piano recital. It was held in a really pretty chapel at a private school this yr. It just happened to be on a day that was over 100F ..so, yes, it was hot as hell in there, no pun intended lol!

Cleo had no probs talking in public, or among ppl she doesn't know. She does however have a horrible time playing piano infront of others. Her hands shake so bad in public that she has a really hard time. She has no probs playing at home but her piano stage fright has her in a tizzy for weeks before the recital. One yr, she played a few cords and just stopped...went back to her seat, her hands shook too much. My heart goes out to her at this time...as a parent we are so helpless to help them through these moments. I was doubley proud of her that yr, because after everyone had played, she gave it another try and finished the song. It wasn't perfect but the fact that she got back up there was astounding.

This year, she was to play 2 songs. To help, she asked the teacher to sit on the bench next to her, just to block ppl from seeing her hands. She played IMAGINE by John Lennon...It was not without a few mistakes but she got through it.

Later she played the MOONLIGHT SENATO by Beethoven...this one she did perfectly...untill the very end ...inwhich she missed a key once. ..I think I held my breath the whole time! I was so proud that she got up there period!!

There was over 100 ppl there to see their friends and family play...all students of a terrific teacher (Jacynthe)that teaches out of her home.

After all was done, there was refreshments for all. Jacynthe gave all her students a present from her as she does every year. Cleo got a very cool pair of black earings.

Cleo's best friend Mel and Mel's bf, came to see her play. We took a few pics outside infront of a nice fountain.Above is them with Chris. Below is a terrific pic of Cleo and Mel.

These were taken last Sunday, the 8th June. Afterwords we went downtown MOntreal with Cleo. We wanted to eat our fav smoked meat sandwiches since Monday was our 2nd Wedding anniversary. So we had a great meal...did a quick toast to many more yrs being happy and together. Was a great day!

This week I also took some pics of my Clematis this yr. It totally bloomed within a week ...it is so full of flowers that I just had to grab the camera. Our pergola is getting old..and worn, along with the bench under it..but I happen to think it lends well to photos even better that way lol.

Oddly enough...one side always blooms much faster then the other side of the pergola...so withing a few weeks, the other side will be in full bloom while this one will be done.

As usual, there are more photos in the flickr page if u click twice on any here.

I plan to take photos of all the flowers I planted in the front yard soon, I am waiting till they fill out some lol.

We have planted a garden this year also...I look forward to ripe tomatoes and cucumbers...among other things.

Have any of you planted flowers or a garden this yr? Do u have a green thumb or not?

I have to admit that my thumb is green when I put it outside...but I have always managed to kill ANYTHING that grows in the house without out fail!! Don't ask me how or why!

SO TRUE!!!!

2008-06-11T14:01:00.003-04:00

I got this in an email from a friend and thought I just had to share it here for many to read......

So very eloquent...and so very appropriate.

A Message by George Carlin:

The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider Freeways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.

We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.

We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stock room. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete...

Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.

Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.

Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.

Remember, to say, 'I love you' to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.

Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.

Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

If you don't send this to at least 8 people....Who cares?

George Carlin

TO EAT LIKE A KING! OR ATLEAST NEXT TO ONE?

2008-06-08T01:47:00.000-04:00

We went to visit Chris' sister Frederique and brother in law Bernard.They live in a lovely village called Vernon. As I have mentioned before, they have a lovely resturant there called Les Fleurs. Bernard is a terrific chef and as a team, he and his wife run a very nice resturant.

Firstly, I was really looking forward to meeting Chris' sister Frederique and her husband Bernard along with their children, Sylvain who is 20 yrs old and their Daughter Marine who is 15 yrs old. They were all so warm and welcoming. I felt comfortable with them emmediately. We expected to eat with the family early, as they have a resturant to run but hense, they said no...they had already planned to have their meal, along with all the kids, (Chris' kids included) but that Chris and I were to wait and be served in the front at a table for 2 abit later. As we were their guests, we did not argue lol. Next post will be dedicated to the gastronomical meal we were served. In the meantime, as they ate, we were upstairs in their living quarters...using that time to get caught up on internet emails and such. As we have no access from Chris' parents home etc. It was good to log on to clear up emails, check bank stuff lol. As I was online, I bumped into my good friend Anna...so I was able to chat with her about where we were. The building where they live, and have the resturant is actually over 400 yrs old YES! 400! Unreal eh. It has many different levels also, stairs here , stairs there, all leading to different rooms. The above living quarters meat thier needs...although the building itself is narrow...its quite deep. They have a few different , small private dinning rooms for groups on different levels. Had I been left alone, I would have easily gotten lost in this labirynth of levels, angles and rooms lol. Just one house over, is much much older. This one was the actual house where the Emporer Charles the 5th, used to lodge with his mistress, in the 1500's! It it still lived in, and even still belongs to the family desendants that hosted the king way back then. No where will u find a plaque announcing this on this house, but it is all registered in the town archives. I believe it is because, as its still very much lived in, the ppl don't want to be bothered by passers by wanting to visit etc. These cool facts my friends are the advantages of being family with the locals lol. We learn so much more and see far more interestings things off the beaten paths if u will LOL! Needless to say but I will say it anyway...I have SERIOUSLY never eaten so good in all my life!!

As usual, clicking any of these photos twice will bring u to many more in flickr...enjoy.

NEW DO'S FOR MOM & DAUGHTER!

2008-06-03T22:43:00.000-04:00

Well...I haven't been on much lately...my laptop is in the pc hospital again! Hense my lack of blog or appearances. It's been a week and I am slowly going crazy...( hey, I heard that!)

Anyway, I am on the downstairs pc for the moment...something I can't do during the day while my clients are up and about.

So today Cleo my daughter and I went to get our hair done. Last yr when I lost so much hair due to a few things previously mentioned, I had to go radically blonde on top to trick the eye/ It was so thin on top, my dark hair looked so pathetic and all u could see was scalp with the contrast...so, the blonde really blended the scalp with light hair, hense making it look like there was more there lol...It was certainly different and I needed the change.

Thankfully a yr later, my hair stopped falling out..started growing back in and DADAH.. I don't have to get it bleached so much anymore. It was also growing out and given the pixie edging, it was getting difficult to style in the back, SO... Today I got more of my natural colour put in...and chopped it off in the nape, so it will grow out more even...I have to get used to it being this short but it's still kinda cute and I like the little bit of highlighting left in the front!!

So here is BEFORE....

AFTER....

Cleo wanted something funky and different also....as she is busy with college and just started a summer college course to lighten her fall load...AND she is hoping to get accepted in the ARMY RESERVES this fall, after she gets past a last testing phase...she thought that this summer will be the last time she can really do something funky...and I am all for it!

I have always loved her style and have always encouraged her uniqueness....so she thought..BLUE! would be cool! She was so totally due for a cut anyway ..so here we go, some before pics...one with her favorite hat du jour lol!

BEFORE....

AFTER...........

I think its adorable!! And frankly it's now or never to be totaly funky. She will be 18 in sept. so she has a few yrs to have fun with style etc......

So there u have it...a quick hair cut update lol ...

I hope my laptop comes home soon so I can continue uploading my pics from France and a few blogs I have put aside to go with them...fingers crossed!!!

A SIGHT TO SEE IN ONES LIFETIME!

2008-05-13T17:42:00.002-04:00

Mont Saint Michel is on the shores of Normandie, flanked by Bretany in France. This absolute marvel is over 1000 yrs old. When I first saw it in the distance I was awe struck.

Funny enough, I previously had no idea what Mont Saint Michel was. As we had to go to Bretany to drop off Chris' children where they live, Chris told me he wanted to show this place to me. It was an hour out of our way..but it was worth it. I honestly thought, a mont? We just spent a week in the Pyreneese, I didn't need to see another mountain lol...how ignorant was I!

At high tide, this is surrounded by water. It has only been in the last century that a road was build up to it. For miles and miles u see sands when the tide is low. Many have died, walking the sands, as some are quick sand, and swallow u up if u are not with an experienced guide.

The abbey, stands at the top with the village spiralling down around it..it is a self contained village. People still live there. Among many boutiques, and a cpl hotels, and resturants its such a special place to explore.

All these pics, can be viewed larger. By clicking any of the pics on my blog twice, u are automatically brought to my flickr page to see many more photos. I have just chosen a few to display on my poste.

We spent all afternoon exploring this spectacular place. We then had a meal a the famous Mere Poulards resturant. It is famous for its fluffy light omelettes. You can even watch the chefs beat the eggs in the front of the huge fire place..they are beaten over 40 times they say.....As the sun was going down, we left this seemingly fairytale like place. Feeling blessed to have seen it with my own eyes. Thanks to my husband, the perfect tour guide lol!

It is 4 hours from Paris. We got home (Versailles, where his parents live, just after midnight).

ADAPTING TO ADAPTORS!

2008-05-07T19:38:00.001-04:00

If there is one small piece of advise I could give anyone traveling to Europe...it would be BRING MORE THEN 1 or 2 ELECTRIC ADAPTORS!... Europe uses different plugs then us...the prongs are much different. We got a small kit that has a converter for the heat apliances ie; flat iron, hair dryer...which blew the moment I turned on the hair dryer...the simple adaptor works but I have to keep on low settings, to not BLOW my appliances, as they have diff voltage here. Hense the need for the converter. For the other things, like camera batteries and laptops...the plug adaptor works fine..but when u only have 1, well u have to make sure that everynight u charge all your stuff..each their turn, so they are fresh for the next day...HENSE the NEED for more then one!

My tip for the day lol.

I'M BACKKKKKK! HOME SWEET HOME

2008-05-04T08:03:00.000-04:00

We arrived back home lastnight. It was a very long 7 hr flight for me but it's good to be home. As vacations go, I have to say this was one of the best of my life.

Some reading my blog, assumed we were back 2 weeks ago lol, I was able to post 1 blog while away...we had no internet access unless we went to a Mcdonalds...and even that was limited for some things..and not ALL Mcdonalds have access btw lol. While in the Haute Pyrenees we tryed 4 different Mcdonalds during our travels that didn't have any WiFi. No big deal really..but we did like to check our messages and send our quick messages to family etc.

So as all holidays go...we are thrilled to take off, live new adventures, meet and greet loved ones, shop and walk till u drop....then alas, Drunk from all the sites, sounds, tastes and joy of living so many rich moments....the thought of returning home to calmer routines , the humdrum of your own life...becomes just as sublime as all of the above. Ones own bed and surroundings are re-appreciated as special and all ours. Perfect balance...vacations...Happy to leave and just as happy to return home.

Our whole time away was perfect except for one thing. I got sick 3 days before leaving damnit! Woke up Thurs, May 1st ( a national holiday in France) with Bronchitis. Worst timing couldnt have happened and I knew I needed to get meds asap or be to sick by Saturday to fly home. No prob...as they dont have doc clinics there really, doctors have their own pratices...on a holiday, u call the local police, ask which doc is on call for the town..get the number. Within 10 minutes, we had an appointment a few blocks away..no waiting room, no waiting, went to see him, yada yada, got perscriptions..very charming man. Then went to the pharmacy that was also open oncall..as they were also closed for the holiday. (pharmacies there are really basic pharmacies...not full of everything else like here in northamerica) ..So thankfully for small fee..for consultation because I am not a citizen, I was treated asap..(will be reinbursed by my medical ) And I was able to start meds 2 days before leaving...but I was too sick to go visit the Chateau of Versailles that is very close to where Chris' parents live...because it was one of the easiest places to go see, it was on the last to do list lol....but I did get a book full of awesome pics and discriptions of it at the Chateau itself...Then went home to rest lol.

PS< the pic above is taken infront of Chris' grandmothers home. In the village of Galan, in the Haute Pyrenees...the house is actually very big, 5 bedrooms, 4 fireplaces with an inner courtyard. Over 200 yrs old. I have taken lots of pics that I hope to organize this week.

It's good to be home.

SO MUCH TO SEE, SO LITTLE TIME!!

2008-04-25T19:03:00.000-04:00

What can I say...there are so many words I could use to describe France and my impressions of it. I think to say I am SPEACHLESS says it all lol! How is that for ironic eh. I can't begin to count how many times I found myself gaping and agog at the sights before me.

To see such history and age at every corner is amazing. The architecture...the quaintness..the sheer thought at how old so much of it all is. Our northamerica in comparison is just a youngter lol... at home our Old Quebec and Old Montreal are the oldest buildings in all of northamerica... yes, including the USA. They are dated back to 400 yrs. So when I say old here, it means REAL OLD lol. The church where Chris was babtized is aproximately 600 yrs old...YES , SIXHUNDRED YEARS OLD! LOL.

Below is a pic taken in the gardens of Monet.

Hmm, I wonder why Chris told me to stand infront of this particular pub?!....

This one speaks for itself. We got inline to go up the tower, but it was so windy that day that they closed the 3rd level, so it will be for another day.

I have taken more photos then I have ever taken, anywhere lol...most are loaded to my pc but as we have rarely had internet access, nothing has been put in the flickr acount as of yet. The one time I did try, it took for ever, for 30 pics, and when finally done, it didn't work..so be patient.

More to come as time and net access permits.

NEW SMILE...FOR CRUNCH TIME TILL TAKE OFF!

2008-04-07T15:58:00.001-04:00

Well, we have been busy..it's now crunch time to takeoff this saturday. Got so much done this past weekend. Have enough food in this house for a month without having to leave it lol. Milk man comes here twice a week so even milk, butter, orange juice and other dairy products are no worry.

I was even able to finally get my wedding rings sized. For the last 9 months I have been wearing an uncomfortable plastic guard think behind my rings. Could only wear them to go out. If we count all the 1/4 sizes, I actually went down 8 sizes. My wedding rings were a 7...now down to a size 5! Yay, no worries now. I can wear them all the time now and not have to worry about losing them.

In other news...my teeth got an upgrade lol. I have hated my front teeth for so many yrs. Since my 2 front teeth arrived in this face of mine they had 2 big white calcium spots on them..so it made the rest of my teeth look more yellow in comparison. Added to that, the yrs of smoking certainly didn't help! I have always wanted to do something about it...but cutting off an arm to pay for it , never made much sense to me either.

As much as I may feel like the STAR in my own home...I am not actually among the rich and famous ..hense porcelaine veneers are not in my budget. However, my dentist said that they can do something very similar by recovering the teeth with the white stuff they do fillings with. As most of my teeth have had fillings in front..and were due to be redone, those can be covered by our insurrance..and what was left over came out of pocket. They did the 6 front teeth. It only cost me $500. which is still alot for me but compared to $5000. I can't complain...besides, my next staring role will be smiling infront of the camera while twirling next to the Eiffel Tower in Paris...

So here u have it.....but before u scrole down to view the closeups, I must add this warning disclosure......discretion is advised....due to GRAPHIC FEMALE MUSTACHE EXPOSURE!

When I first saw these pics I was like OMFG!... In my defence...I was saving my LIP waxing for the very last day before our trip, SO THERE...(hangs head in shame)....although still so proud of the new chicklettes in my mouth I am past caring as much LOL!

First 2 photos are BEFORE...2nd two are AFTER...

SMOKED MEAT SANDWICH AND A KANGOO RIDE

2008-03-19T17:56:00.001-04:00

Last saturday was a day out for me. We ran some arrands..and then planned to meet with a friend of ours for supper.

Our friend is someone we helped, when she came from France to study here in Montreal. Her parents are friends of Chris's sister and husband, and asked us if we could be a contact when she arrived here.

She stayed with us a few days and we helped her move into a place and set her up etc...she has become a great friend and we try to see her when we can. She totally surprised us last saturday when we met at the resturant. She had with her some xmas gifts to give us from her and her parents. How sweet!!

When she went back to france for the xmas holidays, her mom and her found a beautiful necklace for me and they also gave us an absolutley lovely wine decanter. We were totally taken aback at the kindness.

We look forward to meeting her parents when we go to France...to thank them personally. They have sent more then one very good bottle of wine our way via their daughter, in thanks for us having helped. It's really been a pleasure knowing their daughter but we can also relate to their relief in knowing that we are a constant and strong contact for her. They know that we are here for her if she needs anything.

For over a month my mouth had been watering for a famous Montreal smoked meat sandwich at RUBENS Resturant on St. Catherines street, downtown Montreal. Oh boy it was worth the wait. Luckily I can eat anything now..all be it smaller portions...I even allow myself some deserts once in awhile. Not being diabetic anymore has been AWESOME... however, I have become Hypoglysemic ..so sometimes it gets hairy lol. The dumping sydrome, due to the surgery can hit or miss..so when these things decide to kick in, it aint purdy!.
..Basically..after 3 small bites of a delicious and decadent desert...my sugars shot up, ..and as calm as I tryed to remain, in order not to interupt great conversation at the table...I was very uncomfortable. My heart was beating too fast, I was breaking out in a cold sweat...had major shakes and feeling like I was going to be sick but to afraid that if I stood up, I would pass out ..all at once. I kept silent untill I finally had to ask Chris to help me to the restroom so I could gather myself by either being sick or just being able to breath somewhere private. ....I had hoped it would pass before asking for help, I knew to well that Chris would be beside himself with worry..aswell as our guest.

Thankfully after being in the restroom for abit...things started to calm...I knew the worst was past. This doesn't happen often but when it does it really can be scary and unpredictable. Just something I will have to listen too and try to avoid. My body is teaching me new things all the time lol, some good, some bad lol...C'est la vie!

In other news...we have booked our rental car for the 3 weeks we will be in France. This will make everyones life easier as we will not be at the mercy of anyone to get around. The vehicle is called a KANGOO lol...its an ugly ass thing but its gas efficient, and has room for 5 ppl and 4 pieces of luggage. As we will be traveling alot with both Chris' kids we needed a mid size vehicle. Let's not forget that gas in France is VERY EXPENSIVE compared to what we pay...in northamerica.

So the countdown has begun, less then a month away and the lists in my head are getting longer lol. I will start packing on April 1st...I have purposely not pulled out the luggage yet. I didn.t want to stress myself out more then I needed untill then lol.

So begins my total emersement into fun anticipation ...and anxious list making lol.

THIS REALLY SAYS IT ALL!

2008-03-11T15:14:00.001-04:00

NUFF SAID!!

THIS WEEK IN THE LIFE OF MOI...

2008-03-09T16:50:00.000-04:00

Starting March 1st...I had the pleasure of spending some time with my aunt and a cousin...We don't see eachother often, as we don't go into Montreal very often. My aunt just turned 88 yrs old ..we could all be so lucky to be in her shape at that age. She has a busier social life then most ppl I know. She also sings in a chior and seems to always be on the go. It keeps her young at heart and always a pleasure to spend time with. My cousin is near my age and we all 3 have birthdays close to eachother, so this was a birthday lunch for all of us lol.

Then wednesday, the 5th came so this is my 45th bday photo. Chris and I were just on our way out. We went to a nice dinner then off to the Montreal Casino...unlike the last few yrs when I won money ...this year, unfortunately I didn't. I did win lots of extra credits in the machines enabling me to play much longer but alas thats all lol. The important thing is we had lots of fun....till next yr.

I have that ...Deer caught in the headlights look, on this pic.....

So we come to this weekend. Another major blizzard...worst so far. Lastnight march 8th. We have reached aprox 350 centimetres of snow fall so far...do the math lol, or better yet....

We opened the door this ...this sunday morn....

Oy, were to put it all lol....This on the backdeck is just lastnights snowfall....Here u see our Rae shovelling (he loves to shovel, this yr he has really kept in shape with the help of Chris ofcourse lol)...notice also the hight of the snow at the back of the yard, its to the fense...and our deck hight is over 3 feet off the ground.....

I titled this pic as I GIVE UP! lol....

I thought I would remind you what the yard looks like WITHOUT all this snow.......so BEFORE....

And NOW......since the above pic, we even removed a layer up of the hanging branches on the pine tree..

And before.......

And .....NOW....

With as much snow fallen this yr, we now hope to break the 30 some year record....there hasnt been this much since 70's...so hopefully we can break that, ...hell we deserve it after all this shoveling!! I have to admit, I haven't done any myself....(um, to busy in the house working? yeah thats it>>>I am sticking to that excuse)...

Hard to believe spring is a few days away lol....we advanced our clocks this weekend...atleast it wont get so dark , so early.......I am so looking forward to our trip...and I am sure, the snow will still be here by the time we leave...maybe not as much...but still....

MY 45TH YEAR

2008-03-04T17:27:00.002-05:00

March 5th......45 yrs ago...I arrived. Yes, that's me above, in my grandmothers arms. What a journey it's been so far. All the ups and downs we go through in a life...make us who we become. They determine how we are able or unable to deal with the diversity we are face along the paths we take.
Some of us, grow and some don't learn a thing along the way. I would like to think I have learned a thing or two...but the older we get the more we realize how little we actually do know.

I think success is how u feel about where u are in the moment. In this moment I am very happy. I feel charmed sharing my life with my husband. Laughing everyday, appreciated even the mundane...and being able to plan special things for our future.

I think as women, it often takes yrs to really being comfortable in ourselves. Even then, it's never perfect lol. But that saying, it's better after 40....is so true...but untill u get there, you don't get it. As I hit my 45th yr, I thought about my journey so far and I can finally say, that I like me. For the most part...I think we spend so much time ..trying to be something or someone else, untill we figure out how to be ourselves...I know I have many more paths to go down and many more lessons to learn but atleast for now, I like the me that I am getting to know better everyday.

One thing I do know for sure it that, I am usually lucky on my bday, so we are continueing the tradition of the past 2 yrs. Going to the Casino for my bday lol. First a nice supper out then a cpl hours playing the slots. Chris was able to change his schedule for the day, freeing up the evening so we could go out.

Oh and I am thrilled that it's and odd numbered year...I prefer the odds, over the evens...don't ask me why, I just do...I am freaky that way lol.

So to finish, I have to say, I love each new yr passing, I love my birthdays and I am proud of the grey hairs and wrinckles I earn along the way...although I see nothing wrong with helping them look the best they can when possible lol.

Are you a birthday lover or one who hates to say their age or crys on bdays? I have known ppl like that.

I

PASSPORT TO PARIS !!

2008-02-27T03:48:00.000-05:00

WHOO HOOO our passports arrived!! I was as giddy as a child when I opened mine lol. Chris was laughing at me...as I jiggled with glee , singing the I HAVE A PASSPORT song. I was going to take a pic of it to post...so we could all laugh at my photo..we look like such fugitives or just lacking a number for a police lineup photo. But as Chris pointed out, I would have to block out the passport number and some of my info, so..no show on the photo from hell lol.
It's kinda cool I think, I will be 45 in less then 2 weeks..and I just got my first passport. It seems like the little booklet that exists to open the doors of the world to me lol. Yes I am still giddy..call me goober!
On other news..I called my dad last week to get some info about our ancestors. He is the family historian of sorts...he has done reams of research, to add to what is already out there. We have a HUGE book of our family name, published. I kid you not...this book is aprox 4 inches thick ..large and heavy. Our first ancestor came over here to what was then called La Nouvelle France...He was among one of the army troops from France that came to colonize Montreal...in 1653! The town he was from is called LaFleche in France...
This town of LaFleche is ONLY about 2 hours from where Chris' parents live! So it will be quite easy to go spend a day there. Hopefully go look through some archives..I don't really hold out alot of hope of finding much, given this was before the french revolution. However, just the thought of walking on ground that is connected to me from that far back..is amazing to me!
The things we have already started to plan are already getting done. When leaving someone in the home for 3 whole weeks to care for our charges...we have to make sure there is ample food for everyone. Stock up with extras and make sure that she will lack nothing. Besides, leaving her some money just incase ...and ....have her pay put aside BEFORE we leave, to pay her on our return. So with all that, we are trying to do as much as we can, as soon as possible to not have a HUGE amount of money to spend just before leaving lol... I NEED SOME SPENDING MONEY! lol
I can't believe how fast the time is flying...some may find time crawls, untill it's vacation time...I kinda wish it did for me now..but with so much to prepare...seems like we won't get it all done.
I have already started a few lists....stuff to bring, stuff to gift, stuff we need to buy, like plug adapters for my hairdryer and straight iron!...oy vey, that reminded me of more stuff I need to put on my lists......um, be back later....I need to write this down now before I forget lol...............

SNOW FOR RENT

2008-02-18T15:26:00.002-05:00

Enough snow for you? It's enough for us I tell ya! Winter wonderland my %$@@$%%! LOL.

It is impressive though. As canadians we are used to harsh winters but some are more spectacular then others. This year is one of those with the amount of snowfall. It counts among the top snow fall yrs for sure.

Hard to believe that it will be gone in a few months, and the flowers will be blooming yet again lol. I think that is the only thing that keeps us all sane to be honest lol. Chris , LOVES all the snow and the cold winters. Odd really coming from a country that has much milder seasons.

So here are a few pics taken this weekend. You can also double click on any of them to see more in the flickr page. Below, I am infront of the house directly across the street from us. You can hardly see the house itself lol.

WE HAVE THIS MANY SNOWFLAKES!

This was taken last Sat. 16th/ feb...the first day Chris had been out all week...Thankfully recovering nicely from pnuemonia...we went out for our Valentines supper. A favorite fondue resturant. It was perfect.

The snowbank is higher then Chris but u can't really tell by this pic angle. He is 6' tall, but the tips of the branches touching the snowbank, are about 9-10 feet from the ground.

Catching snowflakes on her nose.

This is taken from the front landing of my house, looking out.

Looking down my street...most of the houses are hidden lol!

There you have it. Our winter snow...anyone feel like making snow angels with me?

MY VALENTINE IS SICK

2008-02-13T21:38:00.001-05:00

I mentioned in my last blog that Chris was feeling crappy last Friday...Well, it got even worse. Over the weekend, crappy turned into a Flu and by Monday, Flu turned into full blown pneumonia. In the 6 yrs I have known him, I have never seen him sick, apart from a day of sniffles once in awhile. He himself admits, he hasn't been this sick in the last 20 years.

Let's face it, most men when sick with sniffles.. are on their deathbed. Well Chris is not like most men...he does not complain and hates to be a burden....and frankly as sick as he is, he would have every reason to moan and groan.

I hate him being sick, but I love being able to do the little things that can make things easier for him. He has done it for me so many times over the years.

So if tomorrow he finds that the antibiotics have not improved things, he was told by the doctor to get to the hospital ASAP. Fingers crossed that he doesn't have to do that.

The good knews is he will be home for Valentines..but only because he is too sick to go to work. He should be going back to work on Monday if all continues well.

I think one of the hardest parts of this week, is stopping in midstride of giving eachother a kiss....we are so used to giving eachother random kisses all the time, that we forget he is sick...and I certainly don't want to catch anything. So my Valentines kisses will be a few days late lol. Better late then never!!

Some people hate Valentines...and I can honestly understand the argument that it's a totally commercial means of generating millions for businesses all over. It is often seen as a guilt generating machine that forces men to purchase things for their partners that they wouldn't otherwise buy because of it all. Sadly it's far too prevalent that, were it not for Valentines, many men don't bother making that effort any other time of the year.

Having said that..it's often the only time of the year that some women actually get such a gesture...sad I know but I understand it. In my last relationship of many years...my partner wasn't romantic to save his life...but like many men, he was smart enough to show up on Valentines with the typical roses and some chocolates lol. Yes, it was easy and prompted by preasure...but HEY it was still nice to recieve and I still enjoyed getting them lol...

Today, I am one of those very lucky ones...my Chris shows me all the time how much I mean to him..he never needs an excuse to bring home flowers, or do something special for me..I am blessed everyday by this man. He is more romantic then I am even. So for us and many, well, hey we can use Valentines as just ANOTHER fun thing to enjoy however one pleases, but NOT for the reasons so many abhor about the day.

As a treat to us both in celebration of Valentines..We had planned to go to a Fondue Resturant on our day out on Saturday. Something more special then what we normally do. This is pending on how he feels by saturday though.

So if you could...please send positive vibes of good health towards Chris this week lol.

Do you have any special plans for Valentines or is it just another day for you? Share your thoughts.

SAY CHEESE.......NOOOO WAIT!!! DON'T!!

2008-02-08T17:14:00.000-05:00

Well, one very important thing got done today! Our passports are now officially processed! YAY! We should be getting them in about 2 weeks. I'm so glad that's done, for the past yr we have been meaning too and just never got around to it. The one day a week I actually do get out, we have better things to do then wait a few hours at the passport offices.

It only took 2 hours, not bad concidering stories of ppl waiting many more during peek times. We got our photos done yesterday..and seriously, they could pass for POLICE LINE UP photos!! Argh, I do get that they don't want ppl to smile...I get that we are usually hurried or haggard as we travel lol, but what's with no earings or any jewelry? Sheesh!

I can't help but feel, when u pose with a forsed serious look on your face...they actually make u look guilty for something lol...I mean they will take one look at my passport coming back from France and just KNOW I have 3 bottles of wine instead of the 2 allowed. Or some stinky but delicious cheese smuggled in ziplockbags, hiding in my lingery....I better shutup now.....

AFter the passport stuff was done, we went on to costco.We have started planning already...just because getting everything at the last minute will be costly...for instance we got some Maple Syrup Jugs to bring as gifts...and plan to bring Iced Apple Wine also. It's delicious and something different that isn't found there either.

I got some very cute, but very comfortable shoes to do lots of walking. A black pair and fawn pair..both $60+ each on sale for $20 each! HeeHee!

As much as I would LOVE to go nuts and buy a bunch of clothes for the trip...I want to be able to shop in Paris MORE!! So I will be as frugal as I possibly can. The good news is, we will be staying with family so laundry will be easy to do. The few clothes that I have that fit me will go far. If I do see a few things on sale at unbelievable prices.....well...thats different lol, I did find a $50 skirt today by chance...that cost me less then $8 lol...I tryed it on, and love it...I don't have stupid on my forehead, so I bought it lol.

So our day was fruitful..we got lot's done today. Chris took the day off for the passport stuff...but as the afternoon wore on, he began feeling crappy. Poor guy. We came home earlier then anticipated. I sent him to bed with lot's of vitamin C...At least he has 3 days instead of 2 , to take it easy.

Well that was my adventure for today...I can't wait to have my first passport! Chris will have his first Canadian one, as he has European one already. Hopefully in furture, I will have one also, I can apply for European citizenship, after being married to my frenchman 3 years. How cool is that!

As of this month...We canadians now need a passport to cross into the USA...something that was never required before. So have you got your passport yet???

AMAZING WHAT WE ACCUMULATE!

2008-02-05T15:47:00.000-05:00

Whether it be in your home or in you computer, we just endlessly accumulate STUFF...My laptop got a COMPLETE SPRING CLEANING...So all the STUFF like programs, icons, folders etc ARE GONE. Many we use regularly mind you and many that seem to just take up alot of room for nothing lol.

I recieved my laptop back today YAY!! However, I lost EVERYTHING I had on it. So new harddrive, new pc basically. As much as it's kinda nice to start fresh, I lost alot of things that pain me. Many photos that I had in folders in my Image file. Thankfully I have many in my flickr account..but lost so much ...I wish I had thought to back it up. When your pc goes BOOM or rather goes...FLAT.. it's too late.

I lost the total blog list I had in my favorites. I will start rebuilding that asap, through comments in my blogger blog...so please comment to make my life easier, so I can do it without going many posts backwards to retrieve you all!!

One other odd thing...my new harddrive is now an english one...since I had the choice, I asked them to do that. Odd why? Well, now my french keyboard on this laptop works differently lol. My ? key is now in a totally different place, then it was, so is the / key, or the @ key...they are all where u are used to getting them yourselves. But before these keys represented letters with accents on them that an english key board doesn't have lol...It will be confusing for me for a few days untill my fingers get used to it lol.

So my imposed laptop total spring cleaning is good in parts, it's hard in others. I still have a few programs left to load on here ..but man oh man, it's good to be back in my comfy upstairs living room chair with my pc near me lol.

This past week, I even had to go buy myself a huge pair of very ugly, but very warm slippers to wear while on the pc downstairs. When I went down there to check mail and such, my toes were frozen within 5 minutes ..and I had to wrap a big blanket around me to keep warm lol...My nose would even get cold lmao!...We sleep down there, and I actually love a cold room to sleep. We love lots of covers and sleep really well. It's just not great for being on the computer lol.

It's good to be home up here lol.

PINING FOR MY PUTER!!!!

2008-01-28T22:37:00.000-05:00

This weekend when I turned on my pc to my morning ritual of checking emails, reading blogs etc...Well, it wasn't doing anything! Whaaa...Call my trusty hubby who is my hero , to look at it. He tryed with all his merth and mite but alas he could do nothing. It was a case of taking it to the puter hospital. Thankfully it was still on the guarantee!

My baby needs a new hard drive. It thankfully won't cost me a thing except maybe MY SANITY!!...I won't have it back for atleast 8 days...if lucky!

I am currently using Chris' pc downstairs. So I can atleast check my stuff down here evenings. Why only evenings? you may ask. Well the whole reason for getting a laptop a few yrs ago was because we had our blind client move in then. He is severely mentally handicapped, blind, mute and epileptic. I have to be near him all the time. So I can"t just leave him alone while I come downstairs to be on the computer. Hense getting myself a laptop to entertain myself during the day. I HATE daytime tv so atleast I amuse myself on my laptop doing lots of things etc.

My blind man can walk so if he gets up , to go to the bathroom for instance, I have to make sure he doesn't hurt himself getting there. Although has a good idea where it is, he still walks into walls or forgets where he was going lol...one day , I was just on the deck so I was a second to late when he got up really quickly and turned the wrong way and walked towards the front door instead...there is a 2 step down to the door. I wasn't fast enough to prevent his fall down those 2 short steps ...and he unfortunately broke his hip. It was horrible...Needless to say, although I am always near by, u can understand that I will still try to avoid accidents at all cost. I can come down here when he is in bed, we have a protective baby fence in the hallway once he is there, so it prevents him from coming to the living room area...but still allows him to go to the bathroom across the hall from his room if he needs too.

So I will be on less in the next week...I feel almost lost without my laptop infront of me in the living room upstairs lol. How pathetic is that! I also have my whole list of must read blogs on my favorites in my sick pc..not on this computer...It's my own fault for not doing a blog roll on my own page but I still have no desire to have one there...my list is huge and when I do remove some at times due to non activity or cutting back I would hate to hurt anyones feelings if they noticed so I just avoid that by doing it elsewhere. So to all my blog friends, if I don't drop by in the next week or so, know it's only because I am missing my list lol. I will try to visit, via the comments I recieve in the limited time I will be on but many don't comment here so it will be impossible to go see u , sorry....

We get so used to our routines that when something happens to change it we are struck with how we rely on them when they aren't there.

Good thing I have some good books I've been meaning to read lol.
Hope to see u soon!!

SUN AND SNOW...

2008-01-22T19:35:00.000-05:00

Well, it's always quiet after the holidays. Nothing much has been happening here. Snow and more snow has befallen our quaint existance.

Some are luckier then others however. My mom and her hubby Ben are enjoying a beautiful house in Palm Springs California right now... they sent an email the other day saying.....

..''Life sucks...High 70's here, the pool is nice, the spa is even nicer''

to which I replied..

''Coulda been worse, coulda been me...btw...BITE ME!!

Seriously, I'm so happy for them both...they deserve it..and our half sister Sophie (the dog) is enjoying herself too!

So I leave u with a pic of my dogs....

We are done patting down all the snow on the deck mom...

CHRISTMAS PARTY IN JANUARY!

2008-01-13T16:00:00.001-05:00

Yes you read the title right. Last night (Jan 12/2008) was the Christmas/New Years party for the company Chris works for. Odd I know but I actually think it's a great idea to have it after the holidays. They always scedule it that way for some reason.

We are usually busy during Dec and frankly I am always a bit nervous going out evenings at that time of year because there are so many idiots on the road who have had a few drinks. I realize accidents can happen anytime, but in Dec the percentages just go alot highter.

The party was really something...held at a Sheraton Hotel..with over 500 ppl in attendance. The theme was Disco lol...the DJ was actually really good. Very entertaining. There were a few ppl who showed up in costume...very daring lol...but for the most part everyone was dressed in very nice soireé attire.

This year was the 1st yr I have attended the party...Chris has worked there for 4 yrs..the 1st yr he worked there, he went but I didn't want to go. He didn't attend the last 2. He usually hates those things.

I wanted us to go this year for a few different reasons.

1. I feel so much healthier this year.

2. I also feel alot better about myself.

3. I actually enjoy shopping for clothes now.

4. I wouldn't feel like a cow among gazelles.

5. I thought it would be alot of fun to have a special soireé of dinner and dancing with my husband.

We were seated at a table with Chris' boss. Very charming man. The party was on a roll very early. People were on the dance floor as soon as they transfered us from the cocktail area to the dinning room. MOre often then not, the dance floor was full! The wine flowed as we had 2 entrés with a main dish along with breaded Calamari. There was alot of dancing, some door prices given out. Chris' boss won a $300 gift certificat lol! Then a million kinds of desert and coffee was set out for all to enjoy.

We had fun..danced up a storm and I also met alot of the guys that Chris supervises...all were genuinely happy to see their boss lol...He is very well liked..even as a boss, he gets the job done but treats everyone fairly..the former weekend shift all wish he would be their boss again..I'm proud of him..being a good boss is hard, being a good boss who is also respected but mostly liked, is even harder...but Chris is liked by everyone lol

Anyway, we left close to 1 am, then treated ourselves to an hour at the Montreal Casino since it wasn't far. We set a small amount to play with and stuck to it lol. Didn't win any big amounts but had fun...then got home after 3am.

After an evening in 5 inch heels my feet hurt so much I wanted to cut them off lol. I'm still heavy on my heels, maybe another 50 lbs lost will eleviate that somewhat , who knows, I think that we all suffer with heels no matter how much we wiegh...

So that was our night out for New Years this year.

PARIS IN SPRING TIME

2008-01-07T01:13:00.000-05:00

It's official...our flights to Paris France are booked for April 12th!!! I can hardly believe it!! We will be in France for 3 weeks!

Yes, I want to see the Eiffel Tower. Yes I would love to take in the Louvre. See some sights...but...

What I look forward to most is seeing the joy in my husbands eyes as he hugs his children close to his heart till they can hardly breath lol!! We planned this trip at a time that his children had time off from school. They will join us for their holiday at Chris' parents home in Versailles, just outside of Paris.

It's been 2 years since Chris saw his daughter Mahault almost 16..and his son Thomas 14. Although he is often chatting with them online or on the phone..it's not the same as being able to goof around with them or just be at their side when needed. ..It's a long story to know why they are there and not here but I won't go into it. Suffice it to say, he misses his children.

I have already told Chris that I don't want him to worry about entertaining me...I want him to do as much as possible with his kids...Sure we will do things together..of that I am certain. I do however want him to spend lots of alone time with them...without me...He needs to bond with them, as they need him all to themselves. I have him every other day of our lives together.

I will be more then blessed spending time with his parents whom I adore! Any vacation for me is also not being home lol. We also plan to travel to Vernon where Chris' sister Frederique and husband Bernard have a resturant called Les Fleurs . You really have to click on that direct link, the photos of Bernards cuisine will make your mouth water!! He is an award winning chef.

We hope the kids will be with us atleast 2 weeks. It may be less. Depending on the timing..when they won't be with us, we plan to go visit Chris' grandmother in Galan France. In the Hautes-Pyrenees mountains, near the border of Spain. I found a family tourist site that have a few pics of Galan. Very close to Lourdes, Toulouse and Tarbes, where Chris was born btw...Galan is a small village that is probably close to a 1000 years old..she still lives in the house that Chris's mother was raised in. The house is probably close to 300 yrs old. His grandmother is not getting any younger at 86 yrs of age...she will be thrilled to see her grandson and hopefully meet his new wife lol. I look forward to spending time with her.

From there we hope to drive towards the South of France, Côte d'Azur in the french Riviera if all goes well...Chris was fortunate to grow up spending his summers there as a boy. Only because they had an uncle who lived there and welcomed them each year, as much for their pleasure as for his.

One thing is for sure...I will have the best tour guide anyone could hope for! How better to visit a place then through the eyes of someone who knows it so well!!

Mostly though, I really can't wait to see parts of my husbands world. Where he grew up, the everyday views he saw as a boy. The people who love him. The places where defining moments in his life happened.

My other point of interest is vested in my own family history. All my ancestors came from there on both my parents sides. It is a place I have wanted to touch, see and experience since I was a little girl. I know our time there will be short lived...but I know we will be back. For now, this first time to actually be going there is thrilling to me.

Tell me...is there a place you have always wanted to see in your lifetime? If so, where is it and have you been able to fulfill it yet? Oh and WHY is this place so special to you?

HAPPY NEW YEAR----BONNE ANNÉE!!

2007-12-31T22:32:00.000-05:00

In reflecting over the last year I have to be thankful for alot. As my Christmas letter states most of the highlights, the calm moments have been just as important.

I hope this new year is a continuation of the happiness I already have in my life. Some new adventures and this journey to better health....How else could I possibly keep up with that sexy french husband of mine.

To all of you ..my internet connections..thank you for your friendships, comments, glimpses into your lives and just being all the different people that you are.

It really is a small world...sharing and reading of eachothers small part of it is very special indeed.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL...BONNE ANNÉE...

OUTSIDE LOOKING IN......Me and a Ghost?

2007-12-28T03:09:00.000-05:00

You know when you're driving down some streets at night, u are compelled to look into the windows of the homes as you go by. The curtains aren't yet drawn so u get a glimpse into their lives. Wonder who they are, is the home a warm happy one? Oh I see they have their Christmas tree up, or wow what a big TV...As we peek, our minds often ask split second questions like those ones.

It was such a cool night with a light snow falling that I was compelled to go outside and see if I could capture the sky. When I did, it was almost 2 am ...Yes I threw on a pair of sweat pants, under my nighty, and went outside at 2 am lol. It was worth it though..although I have a really cheep camera, as is often evident lol, I still like a cpl of these pics.

I hope that ppl driving by thinks my home is warm and inviting...I love that u can see my Christmas tree ...although blurry, u get the picture lol....

From the other angle, u see the beautiful trees that surround my modest home...I love how the branches are bare in winter as much as they are full in summer. See what I mean about the sky being bright , even in the dead of night...with the snow falling in the air it was very odd...no need for street lights this night, it was so clear ...

When I used the flash, all it showed was the snowflakes in the air..the rest was mostly black as u see on this pic below...this photo however, was different, I do believe I had company lol. It looks to me like a ghost flying towards my house. So we were both outside looking in lol. Incase you're wondering, it wasn't cold enough to generate any condensation from breathing, nor was it foggy, it was very clear, and the other flash pics didn't show anything out of the ordinary lol...So I am convinced that this ghost stopped by because he too thought my house looked warm and inviting lol...

And finally, I think he was inpressed with my tree...I got a photo of all the lights on it..all be it abit blurry lol...Only because the only way you can catch the lights is if you turn all the house lights off and your flash too...I really need a better camera ...although, I would have to do the same with a better one...atleast u now see that I put almost a gazilion lights on my tree lol...

So there you have it...me , you and a ghost, outside looking in lol. What do u think? Even with a fushia door..Does my home look warm and inviting? I hope so ....

OUR NOËL

2007-12-26T02:11:00.000-05:00

When I was a little girl, our tradition was ...Christmas eve, we went to bed early because santa couldn't come unless we were asleep. At the strike of midnight we were wakened to come open our gifts. The days before Christmas gifts from our parents and family were put under the tree but that special moment at midnight, we were all sleepy eyed and rosy cheeked...we were filled with excited wonder at seeing the gifts that Santa left us...they were never wrapped, they were always just there, set up and ready to play with, like on display. But before doing anything, we had to check to see the baby jesus in his bed of hay in the manger and remember it was why we were celebrating Christmas. We then proceeded to open all our gifts...play with them, eat whatever was set out and be up till the wee hours. Happily bring out gifts to our rooms and sleep in late Christmas morning.

I continued this tradition with my own daughter.

Now that she is almost 18...we do much of the same thing, except have her or her niece Chantal go to bed lol. But they still have to wait till midnight. My neice Chantal has celebrated Christmas with us since her mom died when she was 11 yrs old. This year was no exception, but this year she brought her son Kayshawn, now 7 months old, and his dad Jeff . Her father (my ex brother in law) Sylvain, also spent the evening of Christmas eve with us.

Here are a bunch of pics of them...if u click on anyone of them, it will bring u to many more loaded in my flickr page...hope u enjoy.

Me and the dogs ofcourse lol...

The kids playing Monopoly, killing time till midnight lol..

Kayshawn with his granddad Sylvain...

Jeff and Chantal..

Cleo and her bf Dave...

Chris and the dogs...

Me and Kayshawn..

Christmas day...Me, Kayshawn and ofcourse the 3 dogs....Can Shinoo be anymore relaxed lol.....

Many more pics in flickr but u get the picture lol...we had a great Christmas...we enjoyed the time spent together and everyone got spoiled. We have much to be thankful for.....

I hope you all had a terrific Christmas or holiday...from my family to yours....Joyeux Noël...