It is a day I will never forget. My alarm clock went off to the sound of the radio. There was a few moments of dead air and then they were saying that a plane had crashed in to the twin towers in New York City. I thought it was a joke but I jumped out of bed to run and turn on the TV. I was just in time to see the second plane hit and the horror and shock felt round the world kicked in. I hurried and got ready for work. The majority of the day at Mouat’s Home Hardware on Salt Spring was spent in the furniture department in the basement with staff and clients gathered around all the TVs watching as the day passed. I will never forget the feelings that day, the unbelief, the absolute horror. And then there was the news that hit that Gander, Newfoundland had taken in all the planes from everywhere that had no place to land safely. Two years ago I saw the musical written about that when I flew from Newfoundland to the UK. I saw for the first time, Come From Away, in London with my dear friends, Nigel, Linda and Claire Hearnden. It was the most amazing piece of theatre I have ever seen. The quick changes between accents alone made me want to meet and worship every performer. Apple TV has released the show and I want to watch it again, but not alone. I will see if I can find a fellow viewer in the next short while and if not shall watch it again myself. Today I honour those who lost loved ones including the 24 Canadians.
On this day in 2019 I had a great brain scar day when my besties got me out of the house stupid early so we could take the train to PARIS!!! I will never forget that day… period
Today by comparison involve 4.5 hours of book work for my volunteer gig, driving my delightful grandson to work and shopping for a kettle. I will say the time spent with Gene ranks up there in the positive. He is very good in the manner and gratitude department and I love that he says I LOVE YOU NANA with no regard to who may be listening, even when he is on the headset in the drive thru at work. That made my day.
I did have fun finds at Winners and to be clear, I found it that way.
I had a day.. only 2.5 hours billable time and much volunteerism. I met and talked with tech people, researched cameras for streaming and felt confident I was on the right trajectory for the theatre.
And then I stopped at one daughters to debrief and ended up at odds with the other child. It happens, sometimes I think we may be too similar in that we will always see the opposite opinion but sometimes I just need her to see where I am coming from and not wait until months go by and she sees the different perspective. I was pissed so I calmly left and headed to the polls. It is advanced voting starting today and I got it done. I have officially voted in our Federal election.
I heard from the Sleep clinic Dr today and I have officially got severe sleep apnea and it is recommended that I never sleep without a machine again.
I am honestly just peopled out once again and want to be in a Knights castle feeling history and ignoring all my first world problems.
Today was ridiculously full. I have just said goodbye to a friend who came to drink wine and catch up around the fire. It is late and I need to sleep but I want to say many tasks were completed!
I received a call from the specialist after only being referred two days ago and have my appointment on the 27th so that was great news. My Good Food order arrived and it was a lot of boxes for what I received and I brought it home to put in fridge and freezer. I made the first of my smoothies and was blown away by how easy and good it was. I made the first meal and it was delicious so that was a good sign. The packaging is a little bit over the top compared to Hello Fresh though.
It was so good I ate it without remembering to take an after picture!
The day actually started with a meeting at the theatre with the sub trades and it went very well. I and the President were quite horrified to find we have a very expensive piece of equipment that we did not need but we must move forward and just forgive my predecessor. I am excited again about the way things are moving forward.
I was messaged by my besties in the UK that Come From Away is available on Apple TV tomorrow and I can’t wait to see it again. Two years ago today we were in the 100 Acre Woods playing Pooh Sticks and that is one of my best travel memories, hands down.
I received my U2 fan club membership perks in the mail. It is a beautiful collection and I look forward to adding it to my play list.
And that is all that is fit to print at the moment. I hope your world is spinning as well as mine is at the moment…. 🙂
Received an email notification that one of my favourite games introduced to me by my friend Sarah in Bella Bella is now online! Can’t wait to play Patchwork with her again.
Rode my bike to work today and received my new seat in the mail from a couple in Owen Sound, Ontario who sold it to me at a very reasonable price plus shipping through Kijiji. Went out and changed it over between clients and honestly feel the love for my Triumph again. Years ago on Salt Spring while it was stored for the winter a cat had climbed underneath the cover and scratched holes in the seat which over the years filled with water and wore out the padding and expanded the holes to just make it look trashy. Now it looks sweet again thanks to Heidi and Jim.
I knocked off a bunch of client files that were on the list and left me feeling work accomplished.
Had Subway takeout with a co-worker as we like to do on a Wednesday.
Pro and con: the sky was freaky
Cons:
I learned that our local hospital is overwhelmed at the moment, that a terrible tragedy happened to a family and that it is getting very real in our area.
I got home to a letter from my super woman Dr saying she has not found someone to take over so will be shutting down her practice. This is terrible for me to process. I sing her praises regularly for the awesome holistic and real approach she had. I have to process how to go forward.
I am frustrated and feeling like I don’t know how to solve the issues left on my plate by people blowing smoke up my ass instead of living up to the commitments they have made.
PROS:
I had a gentleman, David, call me from Canada Life to let me know that he had a better plan for me than what I had requested. I was trying to transfer my Pension RRSPs from them to someone else to consolidate and he was worried I would be paying too many fees so suggested an alternative that saved me hundreds of dollars. I praised him for that as I was taking business away from them and he still went out of his way and his response was simply that it was all about customer service to him!! Give that man a raise!
Dinner was delicious, I have discovered I love Dukka spice from Egypt.
My neighbor came over, talked me off the ledge, tuned my guitar and played a few songs around the fire….
And then I ate my unicorn cookie… tomorrow is another day.
These little guys, a gift from Golan, the Guedes family exchange student from Mexico, wished me luck this morning. I was expecting a call from my Dr with results from my two MRIs.
Dr Sanregret called and we had a good long talk about all that is going on. My knee has a chronic PCL tear and some signs of arthritis. If I am good with the nerve pain pills and a quarterly shot in the knee I will be fine otherwise, should it get worse, I am to be referred to an Orthopedic Specialist. The Pelvic MRI showed that I have a complicated cyst on (or near) and ovary. She does not feel there are indications of Ovarian Cancer so that is good but she is going to recommend me to a Gynecologist as I should either have it removed or have an annual MRI to monitor it. I said I choose to have it removed for my mental as well as physical health. She asked if I had a preference of Physician which turned into an interesting conversation as I could tell she was trying not to point me in one direction. I finally asked who she would recommend and who should be available. She recommended Dr Rode who was in her opinion an excellent surgeon and available. The reason it seems is because he does not have a great bedside manner. I can handle that, if he is a Dr. House, lol. I have since heard from 4 different women that he has HUGE hands! I hope to hear from his office soon. I then mentioned firmly that I am more concerned about my hip. Since falling down 12 stairs in the pitch black in Bella Bella in September of 2015 I have had problems with my right hip that have gotten worse over the years. 6 years later I finally had follow-up x-rays today. I look forward to ending this chronic pain that leaves me limping when I stand up after sitting for a while. I believe it may contribute to the knee ache as well.
I went to pick up the requisition and get my X-ray when I noticed a hazard to navigation in the Safeway Parking lot. The wildlife really is discombobulated in this town.
I got home to to find a parcel from the UK sticking out of my mailbox, so exciting!! Ann Boleyn, the person I wrote my first famous person biography about in Grade 6. I was instantly connected because I learned she had three breasts and I had three nipples! “Ms. Boleyn had a double nail and a bulge of flesh on the little finger of her right hand that was apparently the beginnings of a sixth digit, and she also had a strawberry-size mole on the front of her neck. Conceivably the latter was a vestigial nipple, a benign congenital defect occurring in about one percent of the population.” To know that someone else, at any time in history had the same ‘oddness’ that I did made me pretty darn enamored of her. Her story was ultimately sad though. Imagine how thrilled I was with this care package from my dear friends Linda and Claire. They know me so well, lol.
Did you notice the poor Unicorn was beheaded?!
I bought a Pampered Chef whipper off my friend Christi, so she dropped by after work and we had glasses of wine and a really great visit sitting in the shade outside. Her partner, Joel has the Rocky Mountain Martial Arts Family Centre and we have made a plan to start taking in his Thursday night ladies classes. I really want to have fun and become addicted to a sport I am not too late to get involved in. Maybe a little kickboxing, eh? Just after Christi left I heard from Tracy next door who had been away and she came over for a two beer visit and catch up. It was nearly 9 when I was warming up my dinner and Erin messaged to say she had my sheet order to drop off. She came in for a good hour long visit and she may come to the classes as well. It takes a team for anything involving motivation and I really enjoy the company and motivation of these two ladies. I hope it happens.
I loved having the extra day to get things done! First off the list was the rainbow pillow Danika asked me to make for the girls room in Elkford. I had to make one for each of the girls of course.
Next was off to the Theatre to get the bench in the Tech Booth painted before the carpeting goes in. Good thing as it was super thin paint and dripped easily. I was wearing a lot of it when I got home. I took the top off that Peter had built because I didn’t like the rough finish for comfort and cleaning. He showed up and I was able to explain that I bought new countertops and would just need one ripped to fit. We decided to put them in the back room until every contractor is finished so they don’t get damaged. It was hard not to install them though as I think it will be so beautiful. I had to get resourceful to get the top off as I couldn’t access a screw. It all took a few hours but I felt accomplished once done.
We I got home the garbage can I use to block the opening in my fence until I make a new gate was moved. I thought it was just the wind as the lid was off so I put it all back into place and headed into the house. Just I went to unlock the door I noticed a Buck in the yard eating my maple tree. I went and opened the fence on the far side and then slowly walked towards him as he trotted away.
I had just gotten in and washed up, was contemplating my jammies, when I got a text from Rae that they were going to Jim Smith Lake so she could try her new paddle board. I met them and their neighbour’s kid and one of their students as well as Ashlée. It was windy but still fun. I find it fine for paddling but not great for hanging out or taking pictures as you get blown back sideways. What a gorgeous evening.
Came home and made my Hello fresh as I do not want to waste it. It was so good. I love Salisbury steak and have lunch for tomorrow good to go!
An extended family member lost her wedding ring and this is where it was found!
I made a coffee and then tucked back in to my bed with my crochet project and watched a brain candy movie: Vacation Friends. It was actually amusing but rated R for drug use, I am pretty sure. After that I got out and mowed the lawn before spending time trying to figure out how I am going to design my catio with the collar activated door. It is too complicated to do in a rush so I will likely do it next weekend. I went to the theatre where Bill dropped off Gene and the new exchange student from Mexico, Golan. They carried the countertops up to the booth for me. I checked out the most recent stage while I was there and admit to being somewhat disappointed. There are key things that I needed done that I don’t see even in progress and some changes that are for the worse. That being said it was super cool to see the stage lit up by daylight. The windows are usually and will be permanently blocked off. With the windows there and the chairs gone, it is barely recognizable.
From there I went to Superstore to pick up the large Caesar salad I had promised to bring to Bill and Deanne’s for dinner. While I was there I saw a gaming chair and when I tried it out I felt it was much more comfortable than the chair I have in my office so I went to the desk and told them I would like the one in the box. It was on a trolley when I was done shopping ready to go. I loaded it myself and then went to ask one of the kids to come help me put it together at the office. Will was eager to and was a great helper although we were stunned to find it was used and filthy dirty. We put all the pieces back in the box and took it back to the store. I guess it was a return and they didn’t look in the box. They offered me the floor model at 15% off . It was in perfect condition and we didn’t need to put it together so I said yes and we took it and dropped it off.
I put on a big comfy dress and threw my hair in a s crunchy today just to be comfortable and get things done. I was not expecting Family Photos! Oh well. The kids had fun with a fizz rocket involving vinegar and baking soda. Sawyer was tasked to get it off the roof at one point. He was brave and terrified in the same breath. It was an amazing spread of food and there were 14 of us including the exchange students. So nice to still have my family bubble.
I woke up to what I consider good news about my MRI. I mean it may mean surgery in my future but at least there is no mention of anything life threatening. I have the follow up with my Dr on Tuesday when I will be asking to have the cyst{s} out as I do not want the stress of an annual MRI.
I received a funny picture of my friend Linda wearing Yoda ears and a celebration message of our two year anniversary since I flew to Heathrow and began a most extraordinary visit with her and Nigel. I can’t wait to see them again some day soon.
I spent only a short amount of time taking off the luggage rack and installing the Kayak one. Pretty impressive system, that Thule. Then I filled my Camelback, put some snacks together and headed to meet Rae-Anne as she had once again left her wallet under the sat of my car. She and Ashlée were at the new market in town. They are offering free coffee until their grand opening on the 18th. It is really nice, I picked up a few items of the organic snacks nature and the coffee was delicious.
From there I popped over to Just Liquide to ask their opinion about the Kayak I was going to try out only to find out that the one I had been considering buying new was on sale as they were clearing out their rental models. I quickly paid for it and a used life jacket and headed to the lake or I was going to be terribly late. I did try out hers once I got to Jim Smith Lake but it was too narrow and kept my hip at a terrible angle. I thanked her, gave her a skirt I had erroneously bought in the wrong size (which she was very happy about) and then raced back into town to pick up my new one. Diane waited at the lake and putted around. It didn’t take long to load up and I also picked up water shoes and a paddle which were also on sale.
When I got back we did a circle of the lake and it was just a perfect day. I am really grateful to Diane for getting me out there the first time. It is so peaceful.
I came home and unloaded some things out of the back of my car before heading to Home Depot to pick up the counter tops for the tech booth at the theatre. I am obsessed with Cable Ties and Bungie Cords. I did, however, resist buying any. I stopped at Walmart next as I was trying to find cleaner for the kayak. The game of Life, Super Mario style… now that is tempting. It is too soon to see sleds out but welcome to the Great White North. I did pick up a puzzle of Brighton Beach Pier, the place we went my first full day in England. That will be enjoyable and heartwarming to do. I can’t believe how early it is getting dark already.
Warmed up dinner and then just sat on the couch binging Better Call Saul as I crocheted. Nearly finished the pillows for Emmy and her sister who will be arriving this Fall, stay tuned for pictures.
I walked out to my vehicle this morning to where I had left it parked last night in anticipation of the paving crew today. It was crisp in temperature, sunny in nature. Such a relief to make my way home to fresh new road!
I felt the weight of the week upon me so I went to one of my favourite unwinds, the car wash. I miss my go to spot in Burnaby, the Oasis car wash where they would wipe it down when you came out but at least the major dust and grime is off and I had 5 minutes and 21 seconds of meditation time. The week is washed away
Rae and I had planned to check out The Blind Pig which was supposed to be newly opened but we arrived to find a note on the door that it was postponed to next week so we invited Ashlée to join us at my place for a hang out around the fire. It was good for my soul to hang with my daughters and I was especially happy to hear about Ash’s trip to visit her grandmother on Salt spring Island recently. I worry about my WSM (wicked step mother) who has ended up in extended care. The time to catch up and hear how she is doing was invaluable. So much freaking water under the bridge… so little time to visit and keep connection. Too many miles and months between visits leaves me feeling disconnected. I am glad my Mini-me was able to see her and report back.
This evening filled my tank and I am glad the bar was closed.
The other excitement in my day was that I saw a kayak for sale on Facebook market and contacted the seller. She is going to meet Diane and I at Jim Smith Lake tomorrow to try it out and see if it is what works for me. I will get my roof rack set up tomorrow in case I buy it. In any case Diane and I will get some time on the water which I am really looking forward to.
I smell like a campfire and that is always a signal of a day well spent. The only real down to the day was finding out that a local restaurant is closing down. Soul Food has been a popular place but due to staffing issues it is closing its doors. A sad loss for this town.
I can now say that the friend I lost was John Roland. I officially met him a few days after my Dad died. The first friend that I had met and lost on Salt Spring Island was his brother, Herc. He was a west coast legend. I was sitting at a table in the smoke pit of the Harbour House when John sat down across from me and said “So, your Dad and my brother… they both fell out of the same sack of shit” We were friends from that moment on and I will ever be grateful for knowing him. RIP my friend.
It is the season of celebrations.. all the ones that were unable to be held are happening. The weddings, big birthdays. Retirements… and lives lost are all being celebrated. It is exhausting, to go from no events to all the catch up ones, to greave everyone at the same time… so tiring.
Free flow grief, it’s a thing I do
The news showed proof of all the crazy weather we have had this week on top of everything else. Cranbrook has had some crazy swings from breaking heat records to over 100% more rain than normal..
I had to park out on Wattsville when I got home tonight as they will begin paving Innes tomorrow at 7 am apparently. A note was left in my mailbox a few days ago.
Hello Fresh is back in the house. It was ‘ok’ not my favourite texture so far..
Today I had a lot to do in the morning but then I was able to take my time and leave for lunch. Rae had accidentally left her wallet under my front seat last night so I headed to take it to her at work. On the way I stopped at Mr. Mike’s to see if they found my ring. Thankfully they had and it hadn’t been stepped on. I grabbed some food while I was at her work, she is the assistant, soon to be General Manager at Arby’s. I don’t usually go there but enjoyed a classic beef sandwich and crinkle fries for a treat. It was weird to use a public self serve drink machine but Rae keeps reminding me that Covid doesn’t stick to surfaces.
The stickers were ready today that we ordered for a fundraiser for Peak Music Festival. I ordered some to have and gift and was grateful to Maureen dropping them off. I think they are quite brilliant.
I had a relaxing yet productive afternoon. Part of it was spent consolidating my investments and I have a nest egg! It isn’t large but it is more than I could have imagined at this point given that I had to cash all my RRSPs along the way to pay a man to go away during a divorce. That one cost a great deal, it feels good to be building up the future again.
I came home and lit a fire, had a beer and crocheted in my comfy chair outside. It was lovely and I stayed as long as comfortable. It was 19 degrees and a bit windy so I moved in to make a salad for dinner and finish crocheting. I have done the front of two heart pillows and will start the backs soon. It was a very relaxing evening.
triumphgal 