I Have Survived

Just finished a visit with my three nephews, aged 3, 5 and 6.5 yrs...they are delightful creatures, for sure, but sucked ALL of the energy out of me, lol. It was interesting to see their separate personalities emerge in front of me.

The three year old is very bold and strong minded - he is very impish in his ways, grinning from ear to ear most of the time, and when things aren't going well, a banshee wail that will strip the enamel off your teeth. He's gonna be a heartbreaker when he grows up, for sure.

The five year old is very different. He is quite soft spoken and timid at times. He is sensitive, and his feelings are easily bruised. He loves things that stimulate his senses. I gave him a crystal ornament that has prism qualities and he was TICKLED to get it, loving the rainbows it casts in the sunrays. He loved flying kites with me, and when I gave my sister the electric turntable for the crystal ornament, I just knew it would please him. We won't tell my mother that I gave away the crystal she gave me, lol. I felt it had found a new home with a young boy who will treasure it. The five year old loves to wrestle his brothers...they are often dogpiled like kittens...strange reference I know - the dogpiles often include scratching one another up like rabid cats. He's going to break some hearts too I reckon - some women go for that thoughtful sensitive type.

The 6.5 year old is also different from his brothers. He is very vocal, and will contraidict you at any opportunity if in the mood, with a scowl to go with it that says "what are you taking about????!!. He is very inquisitive though, and as my sister describes it "detail oriented". Already a skilled fisherman and ball player, he is slowly emerging out of his shell. He tends to trail along the periphery when in crowds, but his mind is always turning, as he watches, and interacts when ready. He's going to run his own business someday I'll reckon, either that or a politician, as he lies his ass off is very creative with the truth when implicated in the latest upset among the trio. He's smart as a whip and figures things out quickly.

And they left this morning with my sister heading for home. I think they enjoyed their visit. I'll admit it was chaotic sometimes, with three voices demanding attention...5 if you count my sister and I, 6 if you count Stormy - he can also be very demanding. I don't think he left any teethmarks on them though, so that was good.

I have spent the day (outside of work) rearranging things back the way they were, and making some changes. Every now and then I find something they left behind...a dinky car, the Playstation (and games, all in the same damn box I mailed it to her in last winter...left behind by mistake - she brought it for them to play with), and so on. There is still some bedding to wash, and the floor to scrub, but all in due time. I am relaxing for the rest of the night, will finish off the laundry, and worry about the floor tomorrow. I already washed off the sticky chairs and table.

I have survived the first visit from my nephews. I have visited their place several times before but this was the first time they visited me on my turf. I kept my OCD tendencies in check for the most part, and since most of the tornado left with them (books, toys, little boy clothes, blankets, cuppies, snacks (yogurt, fruit cups, fruit leather, goldfish, gummie fruits...the list goes on)

When are they coming again? I miss them...

Busy

Been busy with my sis and her boys who are visiting - will catch up with posts after they have gone...want to spend as much time visiting as I can...I am still alive...

Kids and Kites

Went to the beach today with my nephews and we flew kites - this was their first time ever and they had a blast. We lost two of the kites...but they all flew for a while before flying off over the lake into the sun.

No Wonder Men Are Happy

Men Are Just Happier People -- What do you expect from such simple creatures? Your last name stays put. The garage is all yours. Wedding plans take care of themselves. Chocolate is just another snack.

You can be President. You can never be pregnant. You can wear a white T-shirt to a water park. You can wear NO shirt to a water park. Car mechanics tell you the truth.. The world is your urinal. You never have to drive to another gas station restroom because this one is just too icky.

You don't have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt. Same work, more pay. Wrinkles add character. Wedding dress $5000. Tux rental-$100 People never stare at your chest when you're talking to them. The occasional well-rendered belch is practically expected. New shoes don't cut, blister, or mangle your feet. One mood all the time.

Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat. You know stuff about tanks. A five-day vacation requires only one suitcase. You can open all your own jars. You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness. If someone forgets to invite you, he or she can still be your friend. Your underwear is $8.95 for a three-pack. Three pairs of shoes are more than enough. You almost never have strap problems in public.

You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes. Everything on your face stays its original color. The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades. You only have to shave your face and neck. You can play with toys all your life. Your belly usually hides your big hips. One wallet and one pair of shoes -- one color for all seasons. You can wear shorts no matter how your legs look. You can 'do' your nails with a pocket knife. You have freedom of choice concerning growing a mustache. You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives on December 24 in 25 minutes.

No wonder men are happier.

Flooding in Dunville

A friend sent me the link to this long slideshow of photos from the recent flooding in Dunville, Newfoundland. What a mess!

What A DUMBASS

Bizzare is one word for it...this guy chained himself to a tree in the woods to commit suicide. What a dumb way to go...it would take weeks at this time of year. Clearly he has some psychiatric issues...

Growing Old Together

Watching "All in the Family" today on Dejaview, I was suddenly struck by what I miss most about being in a relationship - growing old together. I'm content to be alone most of the time, but when I see a couple on television, eating breakfast together, or getting ready for bed at night, I miss that. Travelling together, making decisions about where to eat, what to see...miss that too. Sitting out on the porch at night in the warmth of summer, reviewing each other's day. Having someone to hug you after a hard day at work, someone to rub your feet while you watch a movie together, someone to look after you when you're sick.

It can be lonely to be alone.

Yard Sale!

Yup, having a yard sale on Saturday from 9am-1pm. Skeptics seem to think that is too early for this crowd as many of them don't go to bed until 5am...I'm optimistic and I don't want to take the whole day up. I don't have tons of stuff, but enough I think to warrant a yard sale and I am hoping that most of it goes. I've got movies, books, knicknacks, kitchenware, and all sorts of odds and ends...I hope it doesn't rain.

Just Me And The Boys

So I was informed this week by a health professional that I need to make some major changes in my lifestyle or I shall be risking development of diabetes - that I was pre-diabetic. I didn't know you could be pre-diabetic, but apparently you can. Hmmm...that was troubling. My bad habits have finally caught up wth me.

I have slowly been trying to integrate changes in my diet for months now, with some success. I switched from white bread to whole grain, switched from regular tortilla chips to whole grain (they are actually not bad at all), have all but given up soda, have committed to buying more fruit and veggies, and choose a fruit snack at least once a day, have been drinking much more water, etc. Now I have to begin to exercise. I have been SUPER LAZY for many months now...driving everywhere, or not going at all. Sheesh...

In anticipation of wanting to go out walking, I had ordered an mp3 player from eBay, a nice SanDisk Sansa 250. I looked at the iPods, decided they were over rated and not worth the big bucks, and went for something more than half the price. Sweet little unit arrived today and I spent the evening loading songs onto it. Then me and the boys (John, Jimi, James, Jack, and Jim) went for a walk about town. What a difference it makes to have music along. The last time I had gone walking with music was with a clunky disc man that skipped, and I always got sick of the one or two cds I brought along. Now I have about 300 songs loaded on, with plenty of room for more. Who'd a thunk it...

This is my second night out walking at 10pm and so far, so good. I'm not winded by the time I return, though I know I am walking briskly enough to break a good sweat. And no one has thrown beer cans at me, or tried to run me down - yet. There are a number of cripples here from being hit by cars locally, and plenty of drunk/cracked out drivers...it's a risk...but for now I'll take it and see what happens. For the most part, everyone I've seen has either given me a nod, a hello, or a wave. Good start for me and the boys...

Oh, The Carwash...

Took my car into a car wash in Yellowknife last week while visiting...that was interesting. It was formerly a coin carwash, but the immigrants who run it found a way to make even more money from me by computerizing the water use, but still offer a shitty car wash. The "soap" function had no soap, and the hose was covered in tar...as was the floor. Some dirty bastard had obviously brought his truck in there and made a fine mess of it. I managed to get it all over both hands, arms, legs, sandals, the pedals of my car, the mat on the driver's seat...you name it. And when I attempted to complain about it to the Asian lady taking my money, her response was "twelve dollah!". Um, what? Your hose is full of grease and I need something to clean it off. "twelve dollah!". Ok lady, LOOK at the grease all over my hands. I am NOT getting back into my car with grease all over me. So she hands me dry paper towels. Like that is gonna work on tar. I couldn't get through to her that it was all over the hose and that she needed to get some cleaner to get the tar off it, and should clean the floor with something. I had tried the spray from the hose, but it didn't do a damn thing to get tar off. Sigh...I miss English.

I went to the carwash to clean my car and came out filthy. Great. I tried everything from wet naps to glass cleaner to armorall to dish liquid to hand soap and finally what took it off was one of my friend K.'s wax remover pads - real oily. Dammit.

Newfies

Just in case you don't know, I have only respect for Newfies - my father is one, my daughter is one, I have a house on the rock, and my parents live there. I was even screeched in as one decades ago...so I don't mind using the term Newfies. I love 'em! My dad sent me this one...

The Pet Diary

"Excerpts from a Dog's Diary"

8:00 am - Dog food! My favorite thing!

9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing!

9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing!

10:30am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!

12:00pm - Lunch! My favorite thing!

1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favorite thing!

3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!

5:00 pm - Milk bones! My favorite thing!

7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favorite thing!

8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!

11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!

"Excerpts from a Cat's Diary"

Day 983 of my captivity. My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength. The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet.

Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a "good little hunter" I am. Bastards! There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of "allergies." I must learn what this means, and how to use it to my advantage.

Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow -- but at the top of the stairs. I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches.

The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released - and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded. The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicate with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe, for now...

Holy Shit On A Christmas Tree

The power cord on my laptop has shorted out...I am on my last hour of battery...can't continue...must die...gasp...

Oh, SAVE the dramatics...but the reality is, my power cord has gone on the fritz; I have ordered another, but it will be a few weeks. I have access at work, but am going on the road tomorrow until Sunday and had planned on posting from away...scratch that now...rats...

I am however, going to head home and fish out a pair of pliers and some electrical tape and see if I can't find that damn short...I can't make it any worse...unless I fry my laptop...egads...perish the thought...

Egads

Life is dull these days...no real highs or lows - nothing to write about here...sorry to bore you...other than the red lined washing maching (I dyed a shirt) nothing noteworthy has happened this week...perhaps life will pick up after a few days up north (leaving Wednesday)...

Even Stormy is dull...other than puking for the second time since I've had him...

Can't say the same for this interesting outcome - a 13-yr old girl convicted of multiple counts of first degree murder today...certainly unusual. Her life is anything but dull...

Explain This

Why do cats always choose to barf on the rug and never on the bare floor? Ewww, I know. And then the dirty little buggers go and eat it again. At least mine does. Ewww. But he sure is a handsome tomcat.

Good To Know

I just had an Aero chocolate bar and on the label it states "source of calcium". Well holy shit. Now that opens a whole new door...this chocolate bar has health benefits...I can live with that.

iBoob

Apple Computers announced today that it has developed a computer chip that can store and play music in women's breast implants. The iBoob will cost between $499 and $599. This is considered to be a major breakthrough, because women are always complaining about men staring at their breasts and not listening to them.

Thanks to Apple, now everyone will be happy.

Oh The Joys Of Living In "Town"

I haven't lived in town for a few years, and was liking it that way, but when I moved here, there were few choices...now I get to be serenaded by mournful dogs howling, to have my television drowned out by my neighbor's gas powered weed whacker, and to wipe the clouds of dust off everything in my house due to trucks and ATV's roaring by my trailer.

I've taken to wearing ear plugs most nights, due to the racket my neighbor's dogs make...howling, barking, whining...you name it. And I wear a sleep mask due to the extended daylight of living up north. I have a fan/air purifier on in my room next to my bed to provide air because my screens are mostly ripped and I can't open many windows...I'm in my own little bubble in there...

Oh the joys of living in town.

The Flat Tire

I headed into "town" the other day on work business and managed to get a flat on the FORD van, so had to stop to change it...apparently it had been flat for a bit of distance...'because it was completely WRECKED and I had to replace it. I was driving on new gravel, and a rock punctured it, but because the ride was so bumpy anyhow, I didn't notice the flat until the van decided to just slow down on me, so I finally pulled over to see WTF was going on...and found this...oops.

I Should Be Camping

My friend K. and I had planned to go camping this weekend, but then she buggered off back east (love ya K.!) for a month so I am without a camping buddy...and I don't particularly like camping alone...not without a dog or a gun...

Was supposed to go out in the boat today with some locals, but for whatever reason, the plans never materialized...we were to meet at 9am and the ones with the boat aren't answering the phone or the door...weird...so those plans are a bust - after I made some burgers and salad for the day too...well, know what I have for supper now...

There are other events on for the weekend...a BBQ down the street at the preschool in celebration of 10 years for the Child Care Initiatives...might go check that out today...free food and all, lol....and tomorrow is Canada Day so there will be some events for that, including a parade! Yeee haw...haven't heard about any fireworks...hard to see since it doesn't get dark here now anyhow.

I reckon there will be camping later this summer, if I can hook a camping buddy...

Cat Repellent

I have discovered a new cat repellent. Yes, I love Stormy and all but he can get a little pushy and domineering when I am trying to use my laptop, stomping all over the table, pushing up against me, my arms, my face, etc. The repellent - a Sharpie marker. All I have to do is take the cap off and he is GONE. I don't put it in or near his face or anything, apparently his nose is that senstive that he can smell it as soon as the cap comes off.

I Was Told

in no uncertain terms, by Stormy today, that I was not to leave without him next time...he got into my suitcase and bawled me out something big this morning as I was unpacking. I think he looks just hilarious...

These Are The Days Of Our Lives

It seems like a soap opera sometimes...life can be crazy busy and before you know it, so much has happened. I've been on "vacation" for the past 2 weeks, and am pretty darn tired. I came down to visit with my parents, mostly because of my dad's health issues, and haven't stopped much to relax! After the 4 days of travel to get here, I spent a week at my parents, and was a busy little beaver - scanning photo albums of childhood memories and burning them to disc; packing up slides and dad mailed them off to my place in the north (with the intention of me getting a slide scanner to process them all); did some maintenance on a number of local computers, including my parent's two, which took hours to clean up the messes; took a ton of photos with my new camera, burned them off; took my dad out for a walking video tour of the small community, accumulating about 50 video clips of him telling me an oral history of the area, homes, people, etc; and I did much of the cooking, wanting to BBQ for my parents and I, as they look forward to that treat when I come home.

That was the first week. Then my dad got a call to see a specialist for his then undiagnosed health issues, which was in another province. So we packed up and headed to the big city of Halifax (compared to hometown of population 24 or so) and spent the week there - and getting there isn't just jumping on a plane, or car and in a few hours you're there...it's catching the ferry early in the morning for a 3 hour run up the coast, then a 45 min drive by car to catch the car ferry across the Gulf of St. Lawrence (a 5-7 hour journey, depending), then a 5-6 hour drive to Halifax the following day. The week was busy with doctor's appointments, CT scans, and of course - shopping - my mother and I live in isolation so shopping is a MUST! Then after partial diagnosis - polymyalgia rheumatica, we headed back from Halifax to North Sydney with a couple of stops to visit with family along the way, and across the Gulf again. Got in yesterday morning, and a stop at the hospital to see family doc, and my dad was advised to turn around and head back to Halifax for the second diagnosis (he has two seperate conditions) which was vasculitis, which resulted in a blockage in the major artery of his left arm. Both are treatable conditions, but needs the supervision of the specialist and further testing to monitor the treatment plan, and watch for complications.

So I packed them up again and dropped them off at midnight to cross the Gulf to North Sydney, where they were met by relatives and spirited away to Halifax area once again. Dad will see the specialist tomorrow and begin the treatment for the second condition, which is likely a doubled dose of his steriodal treatment for the first condition as they are quite related, and will respond to the same drug.

Today I had to take a run down the coast by auto to meet the coastal ferry and put some things aboard for people in the hometown, and back up again. Now I'm all packed up and have to hit the road tomorrow morning early, catching the bus to Deer Lake where I'll fly out from on Tuesday - in the air all day, then drive home from there (9 hours north).

No wonder I'm tired. I need another vacation, this time just at home...having said that, I am glad I could be here to be of assistance to my parents at this crazy time, and get in to talk with the doctors myself and hear what was being said. With both parents partly deaf, and one blind, I never know if I am getting the proper version when filtered by phonecalls to me in the north. I am also very glad to have spent such quality time with my dad, which was what my visit back east was mostly about. I hadn't been home in 2 years, so was long overdue for a visit.

Thursday is a holiday (Aboriginal Day) so I think I shall do ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.

Letter From Camp

Something to think about as you send your cherished children off to camp this summer...heh heh...

Dear Mom & Dad,
Our Scoutmaster told us to write to our parents in case you saw the flood on TV and are worried. We are okay. Only one of our tents and 2 sleeping bags got washed away. Luckily, none of us got drowned because we were all up on the mountain looking for Adam when it happened.

Oh yes, please call Adam's mother and tell her he is okay. He can't write because of the cast. I got to ride in one of the search and rescue jeeps. It was neat. We never would have found Adam in the dark if it hadn't been for the lightning.

Scoutmaster Keith got mad at Adam for going on a hike alone without telling anyone. Adam said he did tell him, but it was during the fire so he probably didn't hear him. Did you know that if you put gas on a fire, the gas will blow up?

The wet wood didn't burn, but one of the tents did and also some of our clothes. Matthew is going to look weird until his hair grows back.

We will be home on Saturday if Scoutmaster Keith gets the bus fixed. It wasn't his fault about the wreck. The brakes worked okay when we left. Scoutmaster Keith said that with a bus that old you have to expect something to break down; that's probably why he can't get insurance.

We think it's a neat bus. He doesn't care if we get it dirty and if it's hot, sometimes he lets us ride on the fenders. It gets pretty hot with 45 people in a bus made for 24. He let us take turns riding in the trailer until the highway patrol man stopped and talked to us.

Scoutmaster Keith is a neat guy. Don't worry, he is a good driver. In fact, he is teaching Jessie how to drive on the mountain roads where there isn't any cops. All we ever see up there are logging trucks.

This morning all of the guys were diving off the rocks and swimming out to the rapids. Scoutmaster Keith wouldn't let me because I can't swim, and Adam was afraid he would sink because of his cast, it's concrete because we didn't have any plaster, so he let us take the canoe out. It was great. You can still see some of the trees under the water from the flood.

Scoutmaster Keith isn't crabby like some scoutmasters. He didn't even get mad about the life jackets. He has to spend a lot of time working on the bus so we are trying not to cause him any trouble.

Guess what? We have all passed our first aid merit badges. When Andrew dived into the lake and cut his arm, we got to see how a tourniquet works.

Steven and I threw up, but Scoutmaster Keith said it probably was just food poisoning from the leftover chicken. He said they got sick that way with food they ate in prison. I'm so glad he got out and became our scoutmaster. He said he sure figured out how to get things done better while he was doing his time. By the way, what is a pedal-file?

I have to go now. We are going to town to mail our letters & buy some more beer and ammo. Don't worry about anything. We are fine and tonight it's my turn to sleep in the Scoutmaster's tent.

Love, Jimmie

My Head Is About To Explode

Since arriving on the Rock for vacation, my head has been pounding most of the day. I'm not sure which is the culprit, but I have three suspects I believe - the difference in barometric pressure from NWT to NL is considerable, and with the foggy weather this week, I'm sure it's affecting my head. After all, it is a big goddamn head. Another possible suspect is the fact that both my parents are partially deaf and the volume of both voice and electronics are LOUD...particularly the former...and the final suspect is likely that I am sharing space with a blind woman and feel like I am walking on the face of the sun in the 5000+ watts of artificial light.

Whatever the case, my head is still pounding and now I have the damn hiccups...whine.....

I'm Feeling Old

My daughter turned 21 yesterday...where did the time go? I've been a mother now for over half my life. And with us living in different parts of the country, I didn't get to spend her birthday with her this year. We were together last year as we were sharing a cabin in the woods. Now she's legal in all 50 states - she plans to go to Alaska (neighboring state) and order herself a drink.

When I look back at where I was in life, 21 years ago...so much has changed, so much has happened. I feel old.

Where in the Hell Is She?

I'm on vacation...and so is this blog. Until I have something to rant about...stay tuned...I'm sure it won't be long...

Vacation Planning

I am heading out on Friday on annual vacation - this time to Newfoundland...I'll continue to post from the rock, as I visit with my parents...should be lots to write about...

Stormy will be staying behind in the north, being cared for by a friend who promised to visit him regularly, and water my garden along with the kitty. He'll surely enjoy the visits. I wish he could come along with me like he did the last time, but it's quite a bit farther to go and such an cumbersome journey, I can't put him through all that travel...he will be much happier here hanging out with his mice...I'll miss him though...I enjoy having a kitty on the bed so much. It will be lonely without him...

I wonder what's going through his mind here...turn off that damn flash?

I've Got Gas

and it cost me a fortune - gas is at $1.409/litre here in town....YIKES.

Beer Can Chicken

Yesterday I decided to check out a new way of doing chicken on the barbecue - Beer Can Chicken. I had already drank my last beer (and there is nowhere but bootleggers to buy it here in town) so I simply washed out a used beer can, filled it half full with water, then seasoned my chicken with salt, pepper, paprika and onion powder in some olive oil. Take the can and shove it up inside the chicken and set on a heated grill for about 2 hours. It was crispy and delicious! I don't know what the actual beer would have added to the flavour, but I'll find out the next time I try this.

The Charity of Newfies

I just finished reading this story and simply had to share. I've long known first hand the charity of Newfies/Newfoundlanders, having spent more than 20 years on the rock. My dad is a Newfie, my ex-husband is one, and I gave birth to one, so I was surrounded by them, particularly while living in a tiny outport for 12 years. They literally will give you the shirt off their back if you're down and out. It is not unsusual to arrive home from being away and find that someone has made you bread or sweets, or a meal. Donation rates are generally high, despite tough economic conditions. And as far as I know, Newfies have always been this way - generous at heart. And then I read that story and tears came to my eyes...I recall some of the older folks saying "there's always someone worse off than you" in reference to why it is so important to be generous.

Kudos to the Newfoundlanders!

GODDAMN MOSQUITOES

Here I sit, out on the deck with the new OFF mosquito lamp, and two citronella lamps and these stupid mosquitoes are completely oblivious...if they find their way into the actual smoke, they fly off, but otherwise, I am under attack...I think they are immune...what have we bred now...these things are as big as dogs...

Wet Noses Are GROSS

Stormy has a very wet nose. And he LOVES to touch me with it. Every chance he gets. Particularly when he is begging for some of my meal, or to get my attention. I hate it. It is a very wet nose, and he goes for the backs of my legs, or the underside of my arms...ick. Love him to pieces, but dammnit I hate that wet nose...even if it is a sign of a healthy animal. To me, it is simply cat snot. Period.

Here he is, looking as handsome as ever, my big tomcat...

Spring Gardening Session

Well, the rain stopped last night and today the sun finally came out and burned off much of the fog. I'd swear I was down east again by the state of fog here this morning! However, it eventually cleared, the sun came out, and I was off to the beach to get some sand for my planters. Soil is too expensive to fill them completely, and I need the weight to keep them from blowing away, as the summers promise to be dry. Sand will also hold the moisture better. First trip to the beach I filled my window boxes (although they are on the railing) and got a bucket full. Lacking more buckets, I dragged a sterilite container (cheap rubbermaid) and filled that half full, only to discover that wet sand is god damn heavy and I couldn't lift it. So I dragged it up to the car and then busted it up trying to lift it into the car...cheap shit.

I wisened up when I got home...I was not dragging that thing out of my car...so scooped the sand out from where it was until I could lift it out again and chucked the broken tub on the ground. The planters are all done for the most part...need to find my seeds and to pick up a few more plants in Hay River later this week. I just hope frost doesn't claim it...might cover things in plastic for a week or so at night...

Mine Eyes

I haven't talked about my eyes in some time, and considering what a big impact it has on a person's life, I thought I might update. After my last check-up, I had 20/20 vision. They told me I still had some "haze" but that my eyes were healing nicely. I think the haze has mostly faded, and now I rarely think about my eyes...which is a good sign...they don't bother me much other than a little dryness. The light sensitivity has cleared up although always wear sunglasses (and so should everyone). I can see very far into the distance and have no difficulty reading up close.

All in all, I am very pleased with my decision to have laser surgery and would highly recommend it to anyone. What a treat it was this weekend to wake up while camping and not have to fumble for cold glasses, or to try to poke contacts into my eyes with dirty fingers...

That Was Scary...

but now it's over. I wiped my drive, with the help of Dell tech support (in India). It wasn't nearly as scary as the last time I did it...and only took 5 minutes instead of the 3 hours it took last time, doing it step by step. Phew...

My computer has been completely bogged down for months now and I have been dreading wiping it, as it involved backing up everything, including the hundreds of photos, emails, and other crap. I finally got all the backing up done tonight, and was thrilled to discover that PC restore can put my computer back to factory condition...yayyyy...

As well, I didn't get attacked by viruses the minute I logged into the net, unlike last time when I wiped my desktop computer...and I had dial-up so downloading updates took 3 days...

Now it's fresh and clean and running smoothly again...nice. And lucky...because I was about to biff it through the front window...

Well That Was Nice...BUT

Went out on a date with a man I met online yesterday. We had lunch at a nice restaurant here in YK. I didn't get a good vibe from the beginning, feeling the tension/nerves as he struggled to keep up with conversation. He was pleasant enough, BUT...I could feel that something was wrong. Then I heard from him this morning that he felt it was too early to date, as he is just out of his last relationship of 12 years...can we say REBOUND? Boing-sha-woing-woing...

I believe I was his first date too, since leaving his wife a few months ago. C'est la vie...the search continues...and Lavalife continues to suck. I deleted my profile last fall after getting thoroughly disgusted with the creeps that sought me out - men from foreign countries looking for a wife to let them into Canada, and men who went straight from Hi, how are you, can you show me your tits...

And then I built a new profile a couple of months ago...and apparently there still are no nice guys left! Not that this fellow wasn't nice...he just isn't really looking. He did seek me out, but then his nerves and "baggage" (his term) got the better of him.

Dating at 40 is rotten.

Blind Date Anxiety

Yes, you heard it right...I am going on a blind date today - lunch date at a nice restaurant. I'm in the city on duty travel, met this chap online and he asked me out to lunch. Nerves are rattled, as usual, but at least I've brought something suitable to wear, which of course as most ladies know, is the most important thing about a blind date. I was already here when he asked me out, so it was just lucky that I brought something with me, or there would have been some shopping to do.

My last blind date (seems that is all I've had since I left my husband all those years ago) was a bust. The guy treated me like some distant relative that he was forced to feed at his house, chucking the silverware across the table at me like some insolent child and not offering to take my jacket, and lack of furniture left it piled on the floor, among other things...anyhow...I'm holding out hope that this one will be better.

Dating at my age is not fun, let me tell you. At least at 18 I knew the rules and what to do. Now WHAT?

Super Stormy Saved The Day

Sitting on my small sofa, Stormy was on the back, laying down as usual, never wishing to be far. Then I sensed a fair bit of movement and turned my head and shoulders back to see what was up. He looked puzzled, and as if he was looking for something. My first thought, shit, a mosquito got in here already. They are indeed out, while not in full force, they have sent spies ahead...however there was no mosquito in sight. So I watched him for a few moments, getting a kick out of his actions...then I saw it. A spider the size of my thumb (the whole spider, not just the body) was on my sofa pillow. A brown spider on my brown sofa pillow. I almost didn't see it as it blended so very well. Clearly that was what Stormy was after, but not wanting to alert him to it, because if that spider jumped on me to get away, well...there would be screaming and one of us would be airborne...I grabbed a tissue and picked up the spider, depositing him soundly in the toilet with a flush...Stormy hasn't figured that out yet and was up on the sofa for another 10 minutes still looking for the spider.

Funny how such a tiny thing can bring out the heebie jeebies in some people. I am one of them.

Now here we have Stormy with his new race car. It's just a little one, so Teddy couldn't fit *in* it, but could be taped *to* it. Stormy got a big kick out of this and took off after Teddy with concern...

Sick Of Being Sick

I'm a cranky sick person. Best if I stay home, otherwise my inner bitch escapes. So I've been home for the past two days. You know, being home isn't near as fun when you're sick. I've been through a box of tissues already, I'm sure. I've got some antibiotics, but they have not kicked in yet (not that I've noticed). I'm hoping I will feel better tomorrow, otherwise I'll be home tomorrow as well. You would think it was serious....lol...it's only been a few days.

whine...

Sniff...I Need My Mom

I am under the weather. Or am I the weather? It sure is cloudy in my head, whatever is going on. Off to the health centre this morning to get checked out and left with antibiotics. Sigh...I feel like crapola...stuffy head, pain in my ear, sore throat, swollen glands, headache...ugh...I have been on the sofa all day, dozing and watching daytime television. Simon Cowell was on Ellen today...and there are clearly too many soap operas still on...

I need my mom to bring me gingerale. It doesn't taste nearly as cool and crisp when I have to slog out to the kitchen and get it myself...

Goodbye My Little Newfie

Sadly, I had little miss Via put down tonight, and it broke my heart. She had fluid on her heart and in her abdomen, and the vet feels it was a nasty viral infection that took over her little body. They did what they could, but the outcome was to be the same. I've had her with me for nearly 10 years since conception...I had her mother, Pretty for nearly 10 years, and when Pretty was 9, she had Via in a litter of one, 5 days before I moved from Newfoundland. We bustled her off into the carrier with her mother, and they travelled by car, boat, train, truck, and van to get to Waterloo. Her mother became ill several months after we arrived and had to be put down, so I was so happy her mother had this little kitten for us before she died. Via was a wonderful kitty, probably the best I've ever had. She never destroyed furniture, never made a mess, slept with me every night we were in the same house, never meowed, and was just a real snuggle bug.

Stormy was a little bastard to her and I'll carry that guilt around for a while, knowing how miserable he made her when he would pounce on her. Although they did not get along, I'm sure he will miss the companionship, if nothing else. I know I will.

Call me a crazy cat lady all you want, but I have asked for her ashes back when they are done. I'd like to get them home to Newfoundland for her some day, and until then, they will be with me.

More guilt comes when I think of the times when I shooed her away, not wanting a cat on my neck (she didn't do laps much, preferring to be up under your chin, hanging off your shoulder) at the time, so will have to live with that too. I know it's all normal guilt and will fade with time, but it doesn't make it any easier right now, as I envision her hurt look when I shooed her down in order to eat or use the computer. Now I can never hold her again, and of course, it bothers me. The Catholics don't hold the market on guilt...there is plenty left over for the agnostics...

So, my little friend. You were a faithful companion and saw me through many of the more difficult periods of my life and asked so little in return. I won't miss the white fur all over my clothes, but I will miss your little warm body at night. You've slept with me since you were old enough to climb onto the bed and helped my bed feel less lonely. I hope you are at peace now, and not in pain.

How Much Is That Kitty In The Window

Snapped this the other day while Via was basking in the sunlight...she is a heat source addict. Her favorite spot is to lay on top of the furnace duct. At night she usually sleeps with me under the covers with her head on the pillow next to me...and when that isn't available (because I am asleep and she can't get in where she wants) she will curl up behind my arse end...it must be warm there, lol...

My Mother Thinks I've Pissed The Bed

When I was younger and living at home, my mother would ask me if I pissed the bed if I got up earlier than usual, particularly on weekends. I have usually been an early riser, but today I was up at 6:45am, after waking at about 6:30 and tossed for a bit, but the brain was awake. You know the feeling...once your brain wakes up, it starts running through what you want to accomplish in the coming day, and so much so, I can't turn over for a second nap...so I get up.

There was also a party going on somewhere. I could hear music, and I know they didn't get UP and turn the music on...they are STILL up from last night. There is a party here in town every night of the week, somewhere. I usually don't hear music, but I think it's because the wind is still thus far, so sound travels very easily.

Week in Review

I haven't posted in a few days...been busy...

• flew out by charter yesterday for a seminar in another city
• Tuesday was check-up day...time to pop the hood and take a look. Yup, time for the annual physical - hope that everyone takes the time to do so. Mine took quite a while, well over an hour...but the nurse was new to the centre so had to gather everything from various rooms, and it wasn't the regular day for well-woman checkups. I didn't mind...I like it when they are thorough. I had a 12-lead EKG which was fine, but I forgot to remove one of the sticky patches with the snap on it from under my boob. All day long I was wondering why my fucking bra was irritating me so much...then I got home from work and took it off (like usual - socks and bra get the fling when I get home from work) and I was still irritated...so then I found the sticky...it's no wonder I was irriated all day...
• did some power shopping yesterday and managed to pick up some new sheets. I don't know what the cats are doing my bedding but it gets shredded pretty quickly, particularly the sheets. So I don't buy expensive ones, however I do like plain cotton, no printed polyester for me! Stormy "helped" me make the bed when they were washed and dried...he loves to hide under them as I tuck things in.
• the snow is going fast, though it's been a little chillier the past few days...-6C the past two mornings. I'll be glad when the ice is out of the lake so I can get paddling
• I made a huge fucking mess last night. I was thoroughly disgusted with myself. I had gotten a snack and was settling down next to the coffee table with it, and had intended on surfing for a bit. Well, as I picked up my frosted glass of beer, it slipped and I dropped it onto the table where it bounced and I was at least able to grab it before it tipped, but not before half of the contents flew out of it, all over the table. Now anyone who knows me and has been to my house in recent years knows that I have quite a cluttered coffee table, as it is my centre...a basket of remotes (there are so damn many and I can't get one universal one to work them ALL, just some of them) and of course they got hit. They all work, but what a damn mess. I also have that rubber non-slip matting underneath two table runners to protect my table and they were a MESS. I was lucky it just splashed the corner of my laptop because if it had ruined it, it would have been punted into the driveway, through the front door...needless to say, I didn't get to snack for about a half an hour while I cleaned up the dirty mess. ARRRRGGGHHHH.
• tomorrow is Friday. Yayyyyyyy! I don't have any plans, however I do expect to be cleaning house, working on my scrapbook (I am determined to FINISH IT) and the usual puttering. There will be BBQ (coming over miss L?) I reckon and then I have to pack for my next trip away...have to head to the city for training on adoptions on Monday.

Happy Thursday everyone...

It Only Took ALL Afternoon

I finally dragged out all my scrapbooking mess and spread it over the table. It is going to stay there until I finish the damn stuff or I get sick of looking at it. I mean, it's not like I eat at the table very often. I eat where most single women eat...in front of the tv at the coffee table or standing at the kitchen sink.

I have been buying stuff to scrapbook with for a few years now but have not touched it in over 2 years. It's not like I haven't had the time either...or the subject to work with. The one I've just begun is of our trip to central America in 2004. I also have some photos taken out for several friends pages, and a few of the kid as well for her sleep book.

I still have one to do for Ireland's journey in 2001. At the very least, I do have those photos in an album with writing in the margins...but I still have a huge pile of souvenir paper stuff that I want to put in an album with photos. Sigh...it will come. I've managed to fuck around all day at this and get 2 pages done. I think I started at noon and now it's after 6pm. What in the hell was I doing all day...

The Disappearing Art of Letter Writing

As I attempted to handwrite a letter to my parents today, I realized the sad truth. Computers have spoiled me, and ruined my handwriting. I could not believe the hen scratch that came out of my hand. One would think I was writing with my toes...

Then I opened a waylaid Christmas card today that was in a parcel of old mail from my daughter (apparently, sending mail on was not a high priority for her) and in this card from my aunt and uncle was a hand written note, as usual, except this year, her handwriting is quite wobbly due to arthritis...but dammit, she wrote to me anyhow, so that's commendable.

The problem is, now I want to handwrite a note to her and my writing is atrocious...I need to practice...bring on the looseleaf. Before you know it I'll be making lists like my sister ALWAYS did (and probably still does) just to practice my handwriting. It wasn't as bad when I was in university because I had to handwrite all my exams...and if I expected to pass, it had to be legible...

off I go to practice my handwriting...

Happy Birthday Stormy

This weekend marks Stormy's 2nd birthday. He was born in the barn, so his exact birthday is a little sketchy...so I have picked April 9th, which is Monday. He seems much older than 2. I think it is the history and travel he has done...Happy Birthday you little bastard Stormy.

Vision Update

Well, it has been nearly 5 weeks since my laser surgery and I believe my vision is about 20/20. I still have some haze, and dry eyes, but overall, it looks like the surgery was a success. I am back to doing most of the activities I did before, though I do still spend considerably less time on the net. Haven't played many games online, that's for sure. The light sensitivity is not as bad as it was in the beginning (which was AWFUL) but it annoys me after a bit. I have a screen on my monitor at work, so have found that to be a great relief. Now I have to figure out what to do about my laptop screen. Or do I...I've been spending more time reading since my eye surgery...as electronic screens bother my eyes if I watch them too long (tv or computer). I have enjoyed my return to reading novels. I'd been lax over the past several months...laziness I suppose, as there is no shortage of interesting novels out there, as well as on my own shelves. I often have about a dozen or so books I haven't read yet, since I am constantly buying them, or having them loaned to me. I'm reading a loaner one this week. I can read anytime during the day with no real issue, (other than me snoozing off, lol) but my habitual time to read was in bed at night, but that has turned out to be the least comfortable time for me to read, and I often just can't as my eyes won't cooperate. I am really hoping that part goes away, but I have no doubt that it will, since most other symptoms have been steadily fading.

I had initially feared an undercorrection, which the surgeon warned me about, and with my left eye taking so long to heal up, I figured he was right. But now my left and right eyes seem to be even, though I won't know for sure until my next and final checkup in a few weeks. At least I hope it is my last checkup...

To be honest (and I would have thought otherwise) I don't tend to think about my eyes much anymore, which is quite interesting. As long as I can see the basics, and get through my day without inconvenience, then I am not likely to think of them. Lest you think me ungrateful though, I am increasingly thankful for my eyesight. I was worried (and still am to some degree) that my vision won't be as good as it was when corrected with lenses. While I was miserable with lenses (grit, dryness, duration of wearability, loss, damage, etc) and glasses (too heavy on my nose, slipping down all the time when working up a sweat, fear of loss, limited side vision, etc) I wasn't looking to trade in those annoyances for something new. Or to require a bottle of artificial tears in every room (I rarely have pockets and things that do find there way in usually suffer a ill fated end in the washing machine) coat pocket, and purse.

So there you have it. I am returning to my bed to read for a bit, and then watch more of Stephen King's The Stand on VHS...it's been a sick day from work, so I am actually resting.

My Cat Thinks I am Interesting

Stormy likes to follow me. Often. Pretty near any time I go out into the kitchen. Sometimes he will lay on the sofa and watch me in the kitchen...and wait for things to get more interesting - like I am making anything with food...

Anytime I speak out loud and he is not in the room (and he knows I am alone) he will come running into the room to see what's going on.

When I go into the bathroom for whatever reason, I generally leave the door open (only when alone of course) and he will come sauntering in, curling around the door. Via comes in for the chance at running water she can get into.

When I am making the bed, Stormy likes to come in and "help". And if he is in the living room when I am at it, he hears me and comes running in on the bed. He loves running under the covers when I am flapping them over the bed.

When I come home from work, he is laying on the top edge of the sofa, looking out at the driveway for me to pull in, and comes running to the door to greet me, smelling everything to see if I've been anywhere new, perhaps cheating on him with another cat...

When I bring a snack into the living room, he will come prowling over to see if it is anything he might like me to "share" with him. And if I don't share, he sometimes will push his luck...until I shove him under the table.

His favorite place to perch and watch me is in his fleecy cat bed on the sofa to my left. He can watch all the action from there I'll reckon.

When I sit on the floor with my legs under the coffee table, he will come over and lay down beside me, watching what I'm up to (usually using my laptop on the table, or writing something).

And just so I don't forget him, regularly he will come thundering over and leap onto my chest to demand attention, standing there, before settling down across one shoulder.

Apparently he likes the smell of me as well and sniffs me with his wet nose all the time...which I HATE.

I wonder if he gets bored with me as well...that's probably when he goes into my bedroom on my bed, which is only now and then. Via is there every day. She doesn't think I'm interesting at all, unless I am shaking a can of treats. Otherwise she ignores me until she is ready for affection.

No Wonder I'm Tired

I know I no longer can push myself like I used to but I think I still did a fine days work today (for the first time in a while...) having run 6 loads of laundry through...now all put away; baked a cherry cake, and several dozen jam jams and washed up all the dishes and put them away; cleaned out the porch, making a trip to the dump with a car load; cleaned up the sewing room, and blew up the air mattress for V. when she comes; changed out my bed, and made it up again; vacuumed up the floors; general tidying up of tabletops, counter tops, etc AND brought a movie back to the store on time...

It used to be that I could breeze through that much work in a simple morning, and continue for the rest of the day at the same pace. Not anymore...this took me all day and I just finished up not long ago. sigh...

Stormy Stare

Experimenting with my new lens...I think he looks very cool in these photos!

My Eyes, My Eyes!

My eyes are doing much better...my vision is 20/20 in my right, 20/25 in my left. I still have some haze, but I think it is clearing. The headaches are not as common, but the dryness is still there. The light sensitivity can be pretty harsh sometimes, but seems to be for shorter periods of time.

I've gotten back into reading though. It can be tough late at night as my eyes are just so tired by then, but if I read earlier in the day, it doesn't bother me. I'm currently reading Farley Mowat's Bay of Spirits. I have to finish a book my sister gave me too, before I forget what it was about. Perhaps this weekend that will happen...on Sunday. Tomorrow I'm going on a road trip with friends for the day. We have a DD so that should tell you what kind of trip it will be - FUN!

Sometimes my eyes feel like contacts that I can't take out. I don't think it has hit me yet that I am not actually wearing any, and that my sight is my own, unassisted. However, I believe I shall need reading glasses before long. I can't see closeup much anymore, not detailed things anyhow...wahhhh...

The music is playing right now...not much on television tonight, so I might just do some reading tonight if my eyes can take it...

Killer Pet Food

If you have pets, and haven't heard about this...you should. They make the bulk of the wet food pet food. I checked mine - no recalled food in my stash, but be sure to check yours now!

In My Usual Style

I bought a new pair of shoes in January at Wal-Mart - Earth Shoes. Comfy as hell, but in this cold weather, they are SLIPPERY. I have been doing quite a dance since getting them, managing to keep my feet on the ground for the most part. Tempting fate is more like it...

BAM!!! That was me today as I walked out to my car, arms loaded down like a pack mule, as usual. I managed to get snow on my ass, legs, thighs, arms, wherever, as I spun out of control to the ground. Everything I had was scattered through the parking lot...including my new camera!!! I checked it out though and it's fine. I think it just softly nicked the ground, unlike my binder and other papers I had in my hand, which went sailing through the air like projectiles...

Thankfully, no one saw me, though they did hear me as I went down...I took my snowy arse and injured pride, and hobbled into my car and drove the hell off.

How Rude

I've been away for over a week! From here that is. It's been a busy week and by the time I get home, my eyes can't stand the brightness of the screen enough to pound out a post. I hope it passes soon as I am rather annoyed by this sensitivity to light. Television has lost its attraction as well, and reading is very tiring. waaaaahhhhhhhh....whine...so I have been spending much of my time resting in the dimly lit living room, listening to old rock music on satellite. The felines seem to be enjoying my attention, and truly appreciate the music.

Winter carnival happenings this week also kept me busy and out of the home. Yesterday it was the children's races/events, and then talent show last night. This afternoon I went to the dogsled races.

Tonight it is just me and the tv (and felines) checking out the tunes and possibly a movie whilst knitting up some mittens perhaps...or I may get rather ambitious and drag out my scrapbooking stuff...spellbinding, I know.

Off I go now to check my kitty food for recall status...

I Drink Alone

George and his crew are on the sattelite radio right now...He drank alone too, according to the lyrics of "I Drink Alone". It's not as if I'm sitting here getting blitzed to blend in every night. I'll have two or three maybe a few times a month. Beer is too expensive to drink very much, I don't know how they do it here. It was $48.50 the other day for a 24 case of Coor's Light. I would have bought Keith's Light if I could find it...sniff...so I have to make it last. I bought the current case sometime in early February and I still have about 6 left. But I was alone for each and every one I drank, by choice. T'is a different crowd than I'm used to, so I'll just be keeping to myself here...it might be long and lonely but my student loans will be paid off, lol...and the work part is enjoyable enough to balance it out. I get to spend time with my friend K. anyhow, most every month or two as we crisscross each other's territory for the same employer, in different roles.

Tonight, I drink alone. One beer, and now I'm on the ginger ale...heavy...

Mine Eyes

They are on the mend, and the contacts were removed today, allowing for much improvement and less discomfort, however I am still in recovery stage, and expect it will be a few more weeks before 20/20 vision is in the books. Today's post op visit gave me 20/40 and 20/50, with promise of 20/20 or better in the coming weeks. In any event, I shall be barreling down the highway tomorrow, bound for my northern home, chugging back Tim Horton's all the way...

Then it will be time to return to regular blogging, more photos (with my new camera) and settling in for the rest of the winter. I reckon we have about 2 months left before the snow begins to melt...

RIP G.B.

Cancer has claimed another. My ex's brother in law passed in the wee hours of the morning. He'll be missed by all that knew him. I knew him long before I knew my ex-husband. As a child visiting my grandparents who lived in the same small town he did, I remember GB as the mail carrier. He would pick up the mail from the ferry when it arrived, and carry it to the post office. In the spring, summer, and early fall, he would cross the harbour in his boat, and often times, a group would pile in for the ride across the harbour, me included. If necessary, we would offer to help carry a package or two to the post office. That job has long since passed to another, as GB retired several years ago, however it is with fondness that I remember him now. He was present at my wedding and gave me away, and his wife decorated my beautiful wedding cake even though my budget for the wedding was extremely limited ($100!). He was a Justice of the Peace for many years, and put his "John Henry" on many documents, including several of mine. Everyone who visited that small town, knew who GB was, and I don't know that he ever made an enemy, as he was well liked by all. He was often known as GB Senior, as there was another GB in town, and he went by GB Junior.

RIP GB Senior. You deserve to be at peace now.

Incidentally, my mother and I had a discussion about the use of "RIP" and she thought it was some new abbreviation that instant messenger addicts (like myself) use. Um, no. The origin is hundreds of years old, and you can read more about it by clicking on this link. They don't give a date for origin, but I have seen it used LONG before instant messaging came about, both historically, and in more recent past.

Kitties On Vacation

I miss them...they went on vacation with my friend K. last week while I'm away in Edmonton for laser surgery. There are no kitties where I'm staying with my gracious hosts, just children. While the children can be every bit as cuddly...they tend to make more noise than my kitties.

From all accounts, the kitties are getting spoiled by their host, who has been driven from her bed, as they take over. They have even stolen her dreams...see my Great Northern Adventures blog for more details on THAT.

My vision is still unstable, so I can't write much, but do I ever like the new magnify feature of Internet Explorer 7. Without it I could not do much on here, as I am having difficulty focusing, and reading just about anything. I'm looking forward to fully corrected vision, and then I shall return to blogging. I also bought a new camera, so look for more photos once I can actually see through the view finder again...

Burn the Eyes Right Outa Your Head

I can't really se what I am doing, but wanted to post a short note...I had my laser surgery today (PRK) and am on the road to recovery. I can't see the screen, it's too blurry and I just happen to know where most of te keys are, but can't see i I have made an errors. If I peer close up, I can find out, but my eyes are quite sore, and Im tired, doped up...just heading t bed. I's been a long day, and I am pleasaed so far with the results...when I get this temporary contqacts out, I'll know better then what my correction will be, as in how close to perfect vision. I am told to expect daily noiceable improvement as the eyes heal. SEE you later!

Out Of Sight?

Will it be out of mind? I left town today, heading south to Edmonton for a week, and boy was I glad to see my way out of town. Will out of sight equate with out of mind? It's been a long cold winter so far, and somewhat lonesome, so I am quite excited to get out of town, and head south. Movies, restaurants, shopping, family, friends, WHOO HOOO!

Gonna Be A Bear

You will likely have to click on this image to be able to read it...sorry!

Monday Is Puke Day

You got it. Monday's generally suck anyway. We're not quite ready to give up the weekend, and must arrive at work ready to go. Unless you're puking. Which was my daughter's case. Neither of us are regular pukers. But apparently she gets a little scared when puking, particularly after the 7th or 8th time...so what does my 20 year old daughter do when afraid? She gets her 18 pound cat and clings to him while crouched next to the toilet bowl...I can only imagine what in the hell McGee was thinking at the time, other than why in the hell am I forced to watch this person puke. My daughter said he kept trying to get up on the toilet seat. Gross. Like any cat, he probably saw it as lunch...eww.

So of course, karma steps in. I laughed my ass off when she told me about that, and then later in the day when I got home from work, I coughed so hard it turned my stomach (ever get that?) and usually some slow breathing and cool air can settle it down again. Nope. I puked. Karma baby...

But I am still laughing at the image of my daughter crouched beside the porcelain goddess, clinging to her chubby cat while she puked.

Irrational Lust

I've heard the song for month, loving the melodies, and a few glimpses of James Blunt in magazines was enough to catch my interest. Then I saw the music video. The song is "You're Beautiful" and the video is the one where he takes off his belongings and arranges them before him. There is something about eccentric rock singers that simply irresistible. Maybe because their singing leaves them looking so vulnerable. Whatever it is, this video makes me want to rip my clothes off and jump into his arms...I don't think that's irrational at all...

Productivity

It's only 10:45am and I have most of the weekend chores completed, having started only this morning when I got up at 9am. Dishes are washed(there are tons...I let them pile up for a few days), laundry is ongoing with the first load done. Rooted through mounds of paper and found some tax slips from last year I had to resubmit. I efiled, which I've been doing for years and last year they decided they wanted my slips for student loan interest. Fine, whatever. So I faxed them with the label the enclosed. Apparently they didn't get them. And then I moved, and was in limbo for a while, then cluttered until the extra furniture was moved out, blah, blah, blah. Anyhow, I found them. I also found some other paperwork I had been looking for, and culled the mound, getting a bag of shredding and a bag full of garbage. I could go through again and again and get the same I should just throw it all out to begin with. I need a MAJOR cull one of these days.

I also hauled out the suitcases and the felines began to look nervous. I'm going away next weekend for 2 weeks, and they are going on vacation to a friend's home while I'm off and about. They are pacing about, in and out of the room with the suitcases each time I put something in there. Packing has begun, but not in earnest.

I put away some clothes from the last time I did laundry. Laziness has crept into my home...

Now I think its about time to start cooking brunch...

Vaseline Humor

A man escapes from a prison where he's been locked up for 15 years. He breaks into a house to look for money and guns. Inside, he finds a young couple in bed. He orders the guy out of bed and ties him to a chair. While tying the homeowner's wife to the bed, the convict gets on top of her, kisses her neck, then gets up and goes into the bathroom. While he's in there, the husband whispers over to his wife:

"Listen, this guy is an escaped convict. Look at his clothes! He's probably spent a lot of time in jail and hasn't seen a woman in years. I saw how he kissed your neck. If he wants sex, don't resist, don't complain.....do whatever he tells you. Satisfy him no matter how much he nauseates you. This guy is obviously very dangerous. If he gets angry, he'll kill us both. Be strong, honey. I love you!"

His wife responds: "He wasn't kissing my neck. He was whispering in my ear. He told me that he's gay, thinks you're cute, and asked if we had any Vaseline. I told him it was in the bathroom. Be strong. I love you, too".

this one cracked me up...heh heh

Valentine Hell Approaches

What an evil day. A time to celebrate being with the one you're with (even if they aren't the one you love)...and if you're alone - it's the day couples love to grind in your face til you want to puke. Oh, did I say that out loud?

I'm playing cards tonight at yahoo, my usual haunt, and as often happens, a guy will decide to become chatty only to discover he is also a pervert. Tell me fellas...if you met a woman you liked in person for the very first time in a public place, would you be asking her to take off her clothes within the first 3 minutes? No? Then why the fuck do you do it online? When I see a fella do that, the first thing I want to do is RUN away from the STDS from the sleezy guy. Shortly after dodging that conversation (and I kick his as in Gin) an apparent "friend" of his comes into the game room we're in and she kicks off this whole private conversation with him, in my room (as the host, it was my room - I set it up) to the complete exclusion of me. This guy just asked me to undress, and moments later he is ankle deep in conversation with another woman.

That's why I am still single...there just isn't anything out there...this guy was pretty typical of what I've encountered on singles sites, game sites, chat rooms, you name it...surely there is a prince among men out there waiting for me? Don't answer that...

Stolen From A Hoser

Reads, Watches, Plays, Works...so it's a meme of sorts. Let's run with it...I'm bored...

Reads - juggling as usual...Reader's Digest (in the reading room), I Started Out One Afternoon (or some other title for a book my sis gave me for Christmas - it's good, but I am too lazy to go get it), National Geographic (new subscriber!), The Hundred Secret Senses by Amy Tan (second read), Fall On Your Knees by Ann Marie MacDonad (second read), Lonely Planet's East Africa (my favorite guides!).

Watches - ER (I wish they were all new dammit, enough of these repeats!), Grey's Anatomy (thanks to my friend K. who got me hooked like her!), Survivor, Amazing Race(irritated that Rob and Amber are showing up ONCE again - ya got a million bucks, now go spend it!!! No one wants you to win!!!), Little Mosque on the Prairie (very hilarious new sitcom), Rick Mercer Report, Brothers and Sisters, and yes, Extreme Home Makeover (cry my silly eyes out). Then there is a plethora of sitcom reruns...

Plays - usually cards at Yahoo (gin, canasta) but sometimes poker or slots at Pogo. Offline I occasionally pop the Sims in, but I have to be REALLY bored...

Works - somewhat disgruntled civil servant (social worker) long enough only to eradicate student loan debt...

Hotel Life

Anna Nicole died in a hotel room this week, and of course, it's tragic. The first one I thought of was her little babe, just 5 months old. For whatever I think of Anna Nicole Smith (which is not a whole lot...I admit) I am saddened to think of all these famous folks who have died in a hotel room. What a lonely and sad existence when your last breaths are taken in a hotel room. Granted, I'm sure it was luxury accomodation...hotel life seems to be a part of being a celebrity. I don't think that being a celebrity is necessarily all that and a bag of chips. Anna Nicole was just 11 months younger than me.

Kitty Condo

I moved the condo out into the porch where they can see the neighbor's dog, and bask in the sun. They seem to satisifed with the new arrangement.

Global Warming

There's been much in the news about this. I have one comment to make, and it isn't based on any specific research method, nor did it cost millions of dollars and take years to come to a consensus on. Considering the theory of a former ice age, and the fact that we are no longer in one and haven't been for thousands of years...wouldn't that be considered global warming? The very fact that we are not in an ice age tells me our planet is warmer. Imagine. And I didn't need to have 113 scientists come together to confirm this.

Spiders On Drugs

cracked me up...hilarious!