I was up and at it, getting chores done, so I could be ready for my guest and be ready for the day ahead. The sky broke open and poured buckets. I decided to have some fun and threw out the water soluble Hello Fresh packaging. It really dissolved, kudos to the rain! It did beat down my Hollyhocks though and I had to cut a bunch of them off.
The first event of the day was lunch with Christi and Erin and the Fenwick and Baker. We had a two hour visit which filled my love tank. These women are so easy to be with and I just love them. We had a good time and managed not to gossip, just to share our stories and have a good meal and good conversations.
As we were settling up my guest messaged that she was at my place so I came back to meet her and check her in. Jo-Anne is heading from Calgary to the Ashram in Crawford. If animals rally know, she is as good of a person as she comes across. Missy, who doesn’t go near anyone rubbed around her legs within 5 minutes!
Next stop was the park to drop off the money and then head to Bill’s retirement party. I was so happy to see the faces there and catch up with someone who I was once very close to. I lost Patti in the divorce so it has been decades since I’ve had a chance to talk with her. We spent a great deal of time filling in the gist of her life. I was so glad to catch up and see her daughter’s art. I think Bill liked the gift I gave him.
I headed down to Rotary Park next, in time to do the announcements with Maureen. It was especially fun tonight. I arrived in time to hear Dave Prinn and his daughter Drew play my favourite song, U2 I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For. After our announcements the Voodoo Rhythm Kings played the night away. They had everyone up dancing and I hung in the beer garden with Kory, my nephew who was pleasantly surprised he enjoyed the band. he was impressed that our last PeakFest we had 5 Alarm Funk play. I think he was expecting mediocre as he enjoys the Calgary music scene. Ashlée, Rae and Roger showed up to join us for a beer and then my neighbour Tracey showed up with her friends Cheryl and Lorene. It was a lovely evening and nice to have a bit of a break.
What a full and wonderful day!!
It is odd to ponder that the man I was first married to at only 19 (he was 26) is now retired. So strange to think what my life would be like if we had stayed together. I truly believe things are exactly the way they should be. We have all led the lives that allowed us to thrive. He and Deanne have been together 32 years or so now and I am very happy for them. I am also happy for all of us that we have become good friends over time.
It was a 9 hour work day but I enjoyed it so much! I was alone in my end of the building just listening to the Smartless podcast and getting data entered. I started the day by picking up coffee and donuts for two others in the space and then set myself to the task at hand. I received a lovely message from the man staying in my space to thank me, that he had left me a small gift and that I was an angel. A far cry from the previous interactions on Airbnb! I took time to run out and find a gift for Bill. He was my first husband, the father of my two daughters and it is his retirement party tomorrow. I wanted to find something meaningful and that he would like but not offend his wife in any way. I went to a wonderful little artists market and found the perfect thing. I will post a picture tomorrow night after the party. I got home as it was getting dark as there are thunder clouds and lightening in the distance. I had planned to change out for tomorrow’s guest but ended up sitting on my neighbour’s deck enjoying a bottle of wine and a good visit. All in all a lovely day!
Today was better. I set my alarm an hour later, skipped the treadmill and got ready for work. I felt sad for Luis who had had a very bad travel experience. He left home in Mexico Tuesday, had a long layover in Vancouver with a card that wouldn’t work and then found himself here late at night without proper internet access to reach out to me. I was glad when just after 1:30 am, his cab pulled up. I gave him the 5 cent tour and headed to bed. When I got up this morning I was feeling bad for him as he may not have eaten, so I through together a banana, a couple of apples and a Gatorade and left home a note to reach out if he needed anything.
The day went pretty great although I only worked on one file on the phone with the client for 5 hours. Thank goodness for a headset but I wished I had eaten lunch first! She is so sweet and I love her business so it is a pleasure for me, although I must get on with the two I need to finish asap. I forget now why I went looking but I was on 23andme to review my DNA when it struck me that I am .3% Ashkenazi Jewish. I think I always have thought of Jewish as a religion, a belief, not something in one’s DNA. Of course this sent me down the Google rabbit hole. It is interesting to look up. It really all ties to the German or Polish Ukrainian side of my family. The German is my paternal grandmother, the other, my Maternal. I would love more people in my family to do their DNA tests so we could compare blood lines. I am also 1.1% Native American which is a bit baffling. If all my family basically comes from Europe, then where does that come in?? I shall continue to monitor and see. When I was done the 5 hour call, I checked my email, responded to texts, etc and checked out for the day.
I had a quick visit with Luis and headed for my martial arts class. The only thing I hate about it is my very dirty feet when I am done, I wish the mats were cleaner. It is funny to see the other women not wanting to spar with me as they see me as a worthy opponent. Being that they are all younger than I am, some by many decades.. I am ok with that. Turns out I have a mean left hook and a strong roundhouse kick. The Guru thinks I used to be a kickboxer. Strangely, it is something I always wanted to do but didn’t know women could.. another sad product of my generation.
When I got home I sat outside and had a real visit with Luis. He is 29, here to take the final courses in Kinesiology and Biology for a semester. His English is very good and we had a good long talk. I was sad to hear that yesterday was his worst day ever. He left Tuesday from home, spent a full layover day in Vancouver and arrived here in the wee hours of Thursday. While in Vancouver, his carryon bag was stolen from a van and it held his 3 winter jackets. What a sad start to his first visit to Canada. I think I have restored his faith in Canadians though as I took him to pick up Subway for dinner, drove him around to show him town and then reached out to my daughter to see if she had any extra jackets as her students often leave some behind. he asked me how much and when I said nothing I think he almost cried. It has been very stressful for him as on top of everything his credit card won’t work here. His mom is working on that problem.
So, all in all, today was a much better day. Yesterday was a blip.
Today was seriously a day of reverse Oprahness. I spent the day thinking You Take That Back, and You Take That Back and You Take That Back! Earlier this week the president of one of the boards I am on had to call me to address the fact that volunteers on Saturday night said negative things about me. I tried not to be defensive but I honestly couldn’t remember anything I had said or done that warranted this. This morning I went to see one of the women who had complained and calmly asked if I had done something to offend her. She said I told her she shouldn’t have tie-dyed her volunteer shirt and that they had screwed up the fencing placement and I had to get someone else to help me fix it. I replied that I hadn’t said either of those things and her immediate response was “well you didn’t use those words but that’s how we took it”. Honestly I was stunned. I was able to talk through it with her and I think the truth was understood. I did apologize if her feelings were hurt and I believe we are good going forward. I find it horrifying though how quickly someone can put words in your mouth. The thing is, I know when I am edging on or full on bitch mode and I know for a fact that I own my shit when that happens. It is disappointing that someone needed to spread this story without talking to me. To be clear I said that I liked her shirt but maybe she should have asked as it is our uniform. She laughed and said to her husband, see, I told you I probably should have asked. I think it is beautiful and would love them all to be that way but the moment has passed. I shouldn’t have said anything at all. I did explain to her today that I am used to telling the crew at VIMF not to modify their shirts as people were cutting them up etc and it didn’t look very professional. It was instinctual. As to the other issue, I had started with ‘I really dropped the ball as site director tonight by not noticing how the fence was placed and didn’t want to bother you so I just got other help and fixed the gap” They asked me to show them the change for next week and I thought we were fine. Sigh. I was asked by the pres to be careful how I deal with volunteers and reminded him I am also a volunteer and just trying to do my best on a very busy night. I will be more careful going forward. I don’t want to be the reason we lose our great volunteer crew.
I still think that a large part of my problem is my spectrum like inability to play social games. I say something and it is all I mean. If I meant something else or more, I would say that, or not say anything at all. There is a reason I often don’t play well with others…
I was able to finally get access to CRA for the society though and it has been a long time coming. I spent 49 minutes talking to an agent. After 40 of them he finally said once again, you have to have the owner call in and I said, I am the owner! He didn’t understand about societies. He finally looked up the account to discover that as a Director I am on the system and authorized. I can’t believe it has taken well over a year of trying on the phone, by mail, and online but it is now solved and I can file the necessary returns so they will release our GST rebates. Every bit helps for a non-profit. Time well spent in the end. It was hard not to get mad at the agent though as I tried to give him the Business Number right off the bat to see what he could do. Ah well, probably new, like many employees out there, just following the script.
I got some tough files off my desk, two to finish before month’s end, yay.
I came home and made a delicious dinner which was interrupted by an unhappy Airbnb potential guest. She had reached out last night asking to stay Friday and Saturday night but not leave until 8 pm on Sunday. I told her I had a guest Sunday night so would need 11 am check out to do housekeeping. I pre-approved her which allows time for her to respond but doesn’t prevent me from taking other bookings. Some time after 3 today I got a request from a lady for Saturday night. I checked the other request and it said not possible so I figured she declined. I accepted the new booking. 3 hours later I got a message from the 1st person saying they tried to book and couldn’t. I explained what had happened, apologized profusely and offered her still to stay Friday night if she wanted. Things quickly escalated as she wanted me to cancel on the other person. I told her I couldn’t as I would risk losing my superhost status and potential fines. She then asked about next weekend as she wanted to come from Calgary to meet her boyfriend from the States. I told her I had someone Friday night but with the long weekend she could have Saturday and Sunday night. It would not be best for me as it is PeakFest but I did feel bad that it had happened this way. Then she threatened me so I immediately called the superhost helpline and they were able to see the whole conversation and tell me how to block her. I am loathe to take any more bookings as they could request under his name or a friends. I do not want them here.
The up side was a lovely message from the family that was here this past weekend. He said everything was perfect and the only thing missing was a Triumph parked out front. So true.
Tracey borrowed my lawnmower and when she brought it back, she noticed two wasp nests which I had to deal with immediately!
And now I am sitting watching my shows as I await a college student arriving from Mexico. He needed a place for two nights until he can get into his accommodation. Unfortunately his flight arrives after midnight but his is the type of thing I like to be here for. I will just have to sleep fast after getting him checked in.
I received a surprise gift from Quickbooks in the mail! I think it was for recertifying with them and having so many clients on their software. Nice touch!
Fuck me… sorry for the language. It’s 1:15 am and guest didn’t have full address apparently so taxi left him at Tim Hortons. He didn’t message me, I finally asked when he would be here. This day is karmicly bad
I received an email first thing this morning from Thule that confirmed my thoughts. It was not the correct one for my year and model. I went to the dealership by 9 am and waited to talk to management. I was happy to be told it would be taken care of, that they will reach out to Hyundai Canada to get the correct one. There was lip service to paying my deductible. I am pretty adamant about that. I was told it would take some time to solve as they had never had a claim for accessories before and had to find out what to do. I do know that they will pay.. or else, lol. Thule also offered me a 50% discount on anything they sell which was very awesome of them. I came home and got the rack and rails and dropped them off to them and then finally headed to the office. Most of the day was spent on Society work. I did manage to get a couple billable hours in but cleared more off my list which was good. I love my new mouse. It didn’t take long to figure it out and it was much easier on my hand.
I came home to make and have some dinner before heading to my last official Board meeting for Cranbrook Community Theatre. The next time I meet with them will be the AGM in September. There I will be available to answer any questions about the Treasurer report and pass the torch. I am going to be doing the books for the next year at least but will not be on the Board. The meeting went well, everyone was calm and much was dealt with.
I am getting so many requests to stay at the Airbnb that I am having to be very careful that I can manage it. The next three weeks I have a great deal on my plate but they are mostly things I will really enjoy as long as I am prepared. Tomorrow night’s guest won’t arrive until after midnight at the airport so I am not sure what time he will actually arrive. I told him to knock loud as I may have fallen asleep. I forgot to change the number of guests back to 2 after the family who brought their own tents were here so I had a request from a German typing person for 3. I explained one of them would have to sleep in the messy den and they still booked so I hope nothing was lost in translation. There was another request for Friday at 8 until Sunday at the same time but that is when the German family is checking in so I said yes but I would need them to check out earlier so I could do laundry and remake everything. I used to book a day off in between, should have kept that practice. Being that this is likely my last year though, I am taking all the bookings. I enjoyed following Tom Shypitka as he did live posts on his journey to Atlin. He was there to hear what the people had to say at a town hall meeting and see if he can get permits to placer mine sped up to save this amazing community. I have a good friend who lives there and have visited for work. It is a gorgeous piece of living history. Shane said he went up to Tom and told him his friend Marnée said he is a good guy. I will have to have a chat with Tom when he returns.
Missy was waiting for me when I got home. I forgot to turn off my flash so she turned into my newest night light in the yard.
Today was complicated. I was up at 7 after a tumultuous sleep. It was a line up into the bathroom but I got on the treadmill and kept busy so the guests could have their time. Each of the family members was so sweet to me before I left for work ensuring I knew how much they liked staying here and thanking me. The Dad even offered me an unopened container of cottage cheese with a lovely smile. Good think it is one of my faves.
I was very tired and had trouble reconciling one of my societies books against the spreadsheet provided online. It took a long time but was important to me to get done. I ran off around noon for my 12:15 nail appointment and enjoyed chatting with Minh as usual. I didn’t know his story until today. He was born in a refugee camp in Hong Kong and grew up in Toronto. He met Ty, his wife when he was visiting Vietnam and was introduced by a friend. What a life they have created here in Cranbrook, with their own business, Desirable Nails and a beautiful family. I love my nails.
I worked again on volunteer things for the afternoon and then processed a payroll before leaving. I was very frustrated by my mouse which was scrolling continuously and wouldn’t let me click on things. My intention was to go to Staples and get a new mouse but I auto piloted home. I stripped the tent trailer, started laundry, tidied up and started making food in my jammies before I remembered I need to go get a mouse. I got dressed and headed there and found a good ergonomic one which I hope works. I stopped at the liquor store on the way home and have been sipping Howler as I watch my shows and try to kick a headache as the bedding dries.
I slept an incredible 11.5 hours, which was clearly what I needed but also threw me off my schedule. Still glad I did though. I spent a good deal of time cleaning indoors and got a lot of the pool cleaned as well. I then headed to Superstore where I picked up distilled water, some groceries and a cute dress and some shirts on sale. I also picked up some $7 towels to use poolside. It was nice to wander the aisles and when I got home I unpacked and stowed before finishing cleaning the pool. Next thing I knew it was around 7 and I started making some dinner. I had unfortunately let a bag of shrimp go past its date in the fridge and it was smelly. Shouldn’t have opened it and now will have to ensure I take out the garbage tomorrow. Tracey stopped over for a visit as I was finished cooking and we sat out for a visit in the yard. I was just plating my food when the motorcycle family returned for the night. They really are very sweet. I thought they’d done to Kaslo but they stayed in Castlegar last night and stopped for a swim at Moyie on the way back. I had nice chats with them and the son who is an officer told me there is a specific law about not paying for accommodation so he wasn’t going to let anyone get away with it. I learned a good lesson in not letting anyone stay without paying in advance. I can’t create my own drama again! Watched the second season of Feel Good. It is quirky and interesting. Now I am back to watching The Letdown which is a much more real view of parenthood than most shows.
I waited up until after 1:30 and Sheldon was still not here so I went to bed and didn’t sleep well as I was concerned that he didn’t pay his rent as he had promised on Friday. Just after 7 am I could hear the texts coming in so I checked and found he wanted my email to send me money. I got up and found his stuff was still here so I let him know it wasn’t working for me. He was supposed to leave today and I need some alone time. I am very peopled out. It turns out that the self professed good looking so staying here with the family is a cop and his Mom told me he had taken a picture of Sheldon’s license plate just in case. I wish I had known sooner as it was a relief to know they had my back. Sheldon came back and got his stuff, stayed until the payment went through and was very apologetic. I met Rae at Fenwick & Baker for breakfast and we had good food and a good visit. She took off for work and I came home with intention to have a nap but I was called by Gene that he had slept through his alarms and could I drive him to work. I did and then came home for a lay on the couch for a bit as the biking family took off for Kaslo. After doing laundry and tidying up, making good headway cleaning the pool etc, I headed to the park, stopping to get the ice from Arbys.
I was the site manager and emcee tonight. The three acts were Emma Kade, Doug Mitchell and Wally followed by Judy Brown and her band. During the sound check I noticed the guitar player for Judy looked familiar but I couldn’t place him when suddenly I realized it was Sam Hurrie, Doug Cox’s friend and a musician who is often at Vimf!! We made a connection and it was so great. I found out he lives in Riondel since Oct 2018. The band was great, the crowd was small but appreciative and in spite of several miscommunications it was a success. It only rained for a short time, but it helped to take the heavy out of the air. Gene came and played water boy which was lovely.
More lovely than all of it was coming home to an empty house. I am on the couch with a glass of wine, watching Feel Good. It is interesting so far
I thought it funny earlier today when I went past the theatre and saw that the new sod was not all put in the same direction.
I was glad to be ready ahead for the guests arriving tonight so I could be at work at a decent time. I managed to get a lot done including in person assistance with a prior client of the firm I used to work for. I always enjoy my visits with Funke. It was another scorcher of a day and it makes me sad to see my car without the rack on it. I can’t go out on the water and it looks odd without anything on top as well. I received a call from ICBC to tell me an adjuster would need to call me and could I please send pictures. I was to keep my appointment at the Body Shop but wait for final approval to go. This made me nervous. I was very grateful when the adjuster called not long after as it would have been hard to wait all weekend to find out what was up. They just wanted to decide if my rack would be covered and it will not be. It never even occurred to me that it would. I will go after the dealership/Thule once I find out where the error was. They did confirm to go ahead and get it fixed. Phew!
I came home and was making dinner when tonight’s guests arrived, an elder couple on a Spyder trike and two of their 6 kids (grown men) with one of their girlfriends. I forget the Dad’s name but not the moms as she made a point of explaining that one of the son’s names was Janson, or Jan’s Son. Clever. They turned out to be really nice people and we’ve had some great conversations. They will go to Kaslo tomorrow night and be back Sunday night. I was glad she told me not to change out the bed in between as I blocked the night from other guests. I started to drain the pool as the chlorine treatment has not solved the bloom. I will clean it tomorrow and refill it as I think Jan was disappointed it wasn’t useable.
Sheldon had not come back by midnight and he was supposed to pay me today for the week and be gone tomorrow. I am beginning to think we don’t have that same understanding. I just texted him to ask if he is back tonight and he said yes, that he is out with the guys. I do appreciate the money but not the stress of someone in my space randomly and regularly. I need to let him know it is time to move on. That or pay in advance through the site and I will let him stay long term in the tent trailer. In the meantime I wish he would get here as I want to go to bed.
I found a pair of legs in the back alley and hung them in a plant at work to see if anyone notices
Nothing else matters about today except that I have positive news about my car. I called Thule with my case number as I had not heard from them yet. I spoke with a guy who took all the details, ensured me that within two weeks I would hear from a department the deals with claims that are not specifically warranty and that I would hear sooner if my system was supposed to fit my car. I took photos and sent them along. Next I called ICBC, our provincial insurance company and started a claim. The woman who helped me was amazing and she ended by informing me that I have to pay my $500 deductible but it would all be covered as a Cargo Shift under my comprehensive coverage which does not have an impact on my rates going forward. She also said that an adjuster will be calling for more details as they will go after Thule or the dealership to recover costs. I will confirm with Thule about the model, then follow up to make the dealership pay my deductible at the least. I have an appointment on the 30th to take it to Signal Collision whom I trust in town and will get a courtesy car. This all took so much stress off me… a huge relief. Too bad my mental state didn’t give me the energy to get this good news sooner. All good moving forward though!!
I went for lunch with Stacey today at the Fenwick and Baker. It was a first for both of us and I really enjoyed the renovation of the space, the atmosphere and the food. Win-win! We had a good visit and it was nice to get out of the office for a change and taking a real lunch. Once I got back to the office, I finished all my volunteer reports and even managed to get a few client items off my list.
Tonight was MMA class but my neck is still a bit sore so I gave it a pass. I happened to text Rae just as she was taking the three younger boys disc golfing up at the college so I joined them and we had a lovely visit. I am terrible at it but have fun.
I am still confused about whether Sheldon has a plan to leave this weekend. I am finding the need to soak in a bath, wander naked and enjoy my time alone. I am going to have to put my foot down.
Too little brain power. I am finding myself low on tolerance and easily annoyed with everything. I have had little to no say in a few things for a while now and yet am expected to write reports, complete payroll, train people. I don’t want to… There was a very clear picture in my mind when I went fully self-employed, that I would choose whom I worked for and what type of work I did. Slowly, through my spot at the Co-working space, clients still from the firm and my current commitment to my volunteer responsibilities, I have found myself struggling to even take a day off. Tomorrow I am to have Emmy overnight to help Danika out and get a good visit. Unfortunately I still have Sheldon here so I will have to work around him and have her stay with me.
Still no word from Thule or Hyundai. I think I will open a claim with my insurer tomorrow so I can at the least get a quote as to how much the responsible party needs to pay and otherwise get busy moving forward. I dislike that the shine has come off my love for my new car. I have to get that back.
I was home later as I popped out for a brow wax which was a nice walk away and then returned to get all my reports done as Treasurer for the AGM and my final Board meeting. All I will have to do now is the other report I was asked to do as someone is on vacation, and draw up my contractors agreement with the Theatre Society for going forward after the AGM.
It is a real struggle to not drop the ball when I am recovering from the adrenaline rush of Sunday. It is hard to explain that being strong at the moment, mentally and physically, makes me weak for days after. It is probably why I have no tolerance for anyone else right now. To be fair I probably owe the theatre for allowing me to step down as Tech director when I had my surgery. I just need to take ownership of my time and block some off for a rest. I probably am peopled out in my home as well.
Today is the 5th anniversary of the murder of my eldest girl cousin, my dear friend, Kelly. It is hard to process that she has been gone that long already. There were so many moments I wanted to share with her along the way. Life after loss is so damn complicated.
I intended to head to the dealership this morning but had much to do at the office so went straight there instead. I did get a lot done even though my soul wasn’t really in it. I did take time to Google Thule roof rack fails and found there were very few and not in years. The load rating for my system is 165 pounds but I still don’t believe it was installed correctly or maybe it wasn’t the right one in the first place so I reached out to Thule and they have opened a case and will have someone contact me. I decided to find out more from them before approaching the dealership again. I did have the salesman tell me months after when I discovered the side of the cargo basket was scratched that it was off the bosses daughters. I can’t believe they put a used system on my shiny car and sold me it all as a special Kootenay Edition. There will be fallout. My sadness is definitely turning to anger. I shall continue my research and follow through.
I was happy to have plans to go with Tracey to see Bullet Train tonight. We have found we like the 6:20 show on cheaper Tuesday night. It was weird to come out to dusk this time already. The movie was great. Brad Pitt’s character is fabulous to watch. It was bloodier than I usually enjoy but the story lines that wove through it were excellent and I recommend it.
Odd to come home to Sheldon cooking in my kitchen. He has permission but it is still strange for me. I sure hope he follows through on paying and leaving Saturday morning as it would be nice to have my privacy back again. At least he’s a good guy.
I realize now that my problem breathing yesterday was stress. After my misadventure I stuffed down the response so I could be present with the family. I woke up early, made the bed for tonight’s guests and headed to the car wash. Up until the moment I exited and did a full inspection of my car I had been holding in my reaction. That is super unhealthy for me and as it happens I had very good reason to react. The top of my car is very damaged as well as other spots down the side of the windshield and on the hood where I couldn’t fully support the weight load as I was moving it all off yesterday. I am only 5’3” and although strong, it was at least 100 pounds, best guess and over my head with the most of the load on my non-dominant arm. I suspect adrenaline aided me at the time but today my neck and part of my left arm really ache.
Once I saw the true damage That was done, The emotion completely overwhelmed me. I drove straight to the Hyundai dealership to see what they would do about it. I bought the car with the roof rack installed and I have never heard of a Tulle system failing. All I remember is them giving me the key to remove the racks should I choose to and there was no instruction otherwise. The guy in the service department came out to look and was very dismissive telling me to call my insurance company. I told him I was not willing to put it on my insurance for the next 10 years when it was their installation that caused the problem. He said it was on me to make sure it was tightened. I check the security whenever I put my kayak on, pulling back and forth to make sure it is secure, never in my wildest imagination did I think the whole thing would come off. He said he would email the Gm, Josh and see what they were willing to do. I started to leak tears as I was so terribly disappointed that my shiny new car is so damaged and they were not willing to take any ownership. I reminded him they were lucky I didn’t die, or have it come off going down the highway. …. No considerate response whatsoever. I shall return tomorrow morning and every day until they are sick of me. Should I not get a satisfactory response, I will contact Tulle and let them know what happened and that the dealership is selling them without proper install or instruction.
The rest of the day was very challenging as I was recovering from the emotions, very tired and needing to concentrate which makes me have tone. I don’t mean to and I have to explain and apologize in advance to my clients as I really have a hard time faking it when I am that deep in the feels.
I did get all my necessary payroll done and then came home to welcome my new guests. A lovely man from Olympia Washington and wife from Ecuador who now live in Saskatoon! I did eventually ask them if they had a K1 visa as I am addicted to 90 day fiancé but they got married in Ecuador and apparently it came with it’s own shit-show.
I am about to head to bed after a delicious meal. They forgot to put in the tomato but I have crown so i will survive. I hope tomorrow is a better day.
I got up this morning and got ready while the ladies were checking out. After they left I stripped their bed and got laundry going before finally throwing my clothes and snacks in the car, stopping at the liquor store and heading for Moyie lake. It is my eldest child’s 38th birthday today and I was invited out to her Dad and step-mom’s cabin to spend time with them all. I was really looking forward to playing in the water, kayaking and possibly tubing behind their pontoon boat. I had been invited to stay over so even threw in my jammies.
All started getting complicated when I missed the turn off towards their place which is down a 7 km gravel road. I was instead on a different forest service road and ended up way out of the way, searching for a good spot to turn around. As I was coming down, suddenly my kayak shifted way forward and I got stopped as soon as I safely could to find the kayak was still perfectly attached but the rails had come loose and were scratching the roof of my car. I am fortunate to be as strong as I am as I had to lift the entire set up all in one down and place it on the side of the road. The kayak itself with my gear in is at least 55 pounds plus the Tulle j racks and the rails, well over my head was a lot for me to maneuver but I had no option as there was no cell reception to even call for help. I had to leave it in the grass on the side of the road in hope no one would come along and take it and head down to find reception and assistance. Bill and Lukas came to meet me on the quads once I got back to the turn off to their place that I had missed. We arranged Roger to come with a pick up and Will and Deanne who met us to so Roger and I could go retrieve the kayak, Deanne took my car to the cabin and the boys drove the quads back with Bill. Ultimately it took 4 hours to get to the cabin and it usually takes an hour at the most… sigh.
The whole time I did manage to stay calm and was grateful to finally get there and go swimming with the boys and play on the big yellow mat. It was pretty windy so when there was a calm moment Lukas and I headed out on our kayaks to go from one Moyie Lake to the other through the narrows. It has been on my bucket list of kayak adventures. We had such a great time! It was incredibly beautiful, we had great conversations as he is one smart and observant 12 year old and overall we were out for over two hours.
I picked pretty Lily pad flowers for Deanne. We made it back for a delicious bbq chicken dinner and cake for Rae complete with a fake candle made from a napkin. Ash had arrived while we were gone and only Gene was missing who had to work late. After dinner Bill took Lukas and I tubing as we had missed it later. We had a blast and Sawyer even joined us at one point. He is a brave little swimmer. They stopped the boat at one point and I swamped over as I had just pulled myself forward. I was wearing my kayaking life jacket and it boxed me to the surface easily but I could almost fall out of it and it was very heavy to swim in. I ended up taking it off and paddling toward the boat but I had an asthma attack and they ended up backing up to me in the end. I was ok, just done in.
I tried to reattach my racks so I could bring the kayak home but the roof is so damaged that I want the dealership to see it as they sold it with them attached. I loaded all the peripheral items into my car and Bill is going to bring it out for me on Wednesday when they come back to town. In the meantime I will go to the dealership and let them know what happened and see what they will do to solve it.
Over all it was a good day with the grandsons but I am exhausted and saddened that my 2022 vehicle is worse for wear. I decided to come home as I just need a sleep in my own bed.
I got up at a reasonable time today and discovered that my guest had not actually checked out. His stuff was all still in the trailer and his food was in the fridge. The problem was that I had to clean and wash and remake for the guests arriving tonight. I texted him asking his intention and found out he was at work and asked if he could stay in my spare bed as he hadn’t made other arrangements after being asked to stay and work. By now it was after noon and I had mowed the lawn etc getting ready and got permission from him to move his stuff. I set up a bed for him in a crowded den and then made busy getting the rest ready. I borrowed the neighbour’s weed eater as mine wouldn’t start and got the yard tidied up. Next was cooking a decent meal as I was living on coffee only. I packed it up to take with me to the park where I was the DIC (director in charge) and Booth Director. It was an interesting evening with fewer people than usual but they really enjoyed the last band especially, Turtle Valley from Salmon Arm who had everyone up dancing. I left the site after 8 to check in my guests, two lovely young ladies, who came to the park first to enjoy for a bit. The night went long but was most enjoyable and I was surprised to get home and see that Sheldon wasn’t here yet. I began to wonder if I had once again misunderstood his plans when I got a text and then he pulled up. We had a good talk and agreed on a weekly rate for him to stay through until next Saturday morning. After that he is hoping to get an apartment with a co-worker. As nice as he is, sorting these things out and trusting he will pay next week is a lesson in trust… ah week, off to bed.
I was up and at the office at a decent time to get things done before heading to my dentist appointment at 11. I have been having pain and bleeding in the lower right and there was likely some food caught around my crown. Dr Tom took care of it and put fillings in the ‘trenches’ forming on my bottom two teeth. They are wearing in the same way my Dad and Grandads did. he did the fillings without freezing which is always unnerving. It went well but I felt like I had done Pilates when it was over from holding in the stress and running through my head was: No matter what, don’t hit him. It was funny to read later one of my Facebook memories that I had freezing less fillings 8 years ago today as well! My Pair rim that was the wrong one in my original order arrived last night and I love the flamingos
I went back to the office for about an hour before signing out and heading to Studio 134, my friend Jills studio in her basement. I decided yesterday I wanted to get closer to my true colour without getting rid of all the grey, and have a health trim. We had a great visit while she did an awesome job that I am thrilled with. 3 inches lighter and a lovely depth of colour, I shall be back!
BeforeAfter
After that I popped home to have a quick bite to eat before heading to my onsite client to finally get his 2020 year end ready to send to the accountant. We high-fived when it was done tonight and I shall be back to move on with the 2021.
The day was challenging as the AC is down at the office, for the third day in a row and there is none at the clients. It was good to get home and relax in the cool. I should have mowed my lawn but will do so tomorrow. Sheldon is leaving and Emily is arriving tomorrow night.
Part of the win for the day was asking my friend Bear if he had a friend who would like to join him being paid security overnight for the Friday of our Peak Music Fest. It was stressing everyone out so that is a relief to have off our plate and I know he is super responsible.
Today was productive, met with people and got shit done. Then I came home, made a tasty dinner and after eating, headed to my martial arts class. Keith was running it tonight as Guru Joel had company from out of town. There were only of us there but it was fun and we learned some new moves. One was especially good for taking the legs out from under someone trying to punch you on the street. I really need to practice more outside of class as I do want to go for a belt in Escrima. It is a Philippine style. I know me well enough that I need a goal and a prize. I am proud of me for getting involved at all and that will be the next perfect step. For now, I am worn out and it was warm in the gym so I am literally chilling on the couch.
I was amused by waking to man items in my bathroom. One was left behind last week and one is Sheldons who is currently staying here. I admit that man reminders are lovely. If only a handsome single man of my dating range would show up! These younger men and I are having amazing depths of conversation, they are sexy as can be and yet… my position as hostess and my age, likely seen by them as beyond keeps me in Uber control. It is funny how many of the men show up indoors barely dressed. One came out of the shower only in his towel, another shows up shoe and shirtless, hot as fuck. I had a good laugh when a friend said that was an invitation. I just think it is more likely that two things come into play. They see me as too old to be a prospect and the age range has total body acceptance, therefore lack of clothing is not a signal for anything but sun screen.
I had a pretty good day, got a lot done, paid and unpaid. The plan was to go kayaking with a group, following friends out to Lazy Lake. The plan was also to meet Shannon and Teri at the Blind Pig for wings and a bevie first. I was having a great time finally getting time to hang with the ladies and having a good time so I decided to skip the kayaking. That was a good plan as I got home to have a great visit with Sheldon and make a plan for him to potentially stay here through to December as he is a pipe fitter on a local project. He would stay in the trailer as long as is weather comfortable and then I would give him a monthly rate to use the den. I think I could handle that with some adjustments to my routine. He is out for work before my alarm so that helps, it would mostly be my nighttime routine… may have to use earbuds to fall asleep to the TV or podcasts. We shall see.
I had to text Mary Lynne, my friend on Salt Spring as years ago four girlfriends went to see Nearly Neil at Artspring on Island. The memory of Annie reaching into her purse during the intermission and pulling out her home phone made me literally laugh out loud. Those were such good times when I had a woman posse.
I had a terrible toss and turn night that culminated in a nightmare that had me stressed out at 5:30 am. I haven’t had one like that in a long time, one that left me shaken. I even tried to yell in the dream, to stop them from touching my bike and wanting to wake up at the same time. I struggled to fall back asleep and finally decided to get up and on with the day. It was a good choice as I was at the office an hour early after spending over an hour on the treadmill watching the final episode of Inventing Anna. That Shonda Rhimes, she sure makes quirky character magic.
The day was irksome at moments and I was likely curt a few times but got my jobs done. I decided to whip home at 5 to make dinner and I did enjoy it but forgot to take a good after picture. My leftovers are going to make a great lunch tomorrow.
Next on the list was a board meeting to mostly discuss our plans for Peak Music Festival, the Friday night and Saturday of the September long weekend. I have a good sized task list for the next couple days but was thrilled when it was agreed I am to be the Emcee for the event. I will also fill other jobs where needed to help make it a success. It is nice to have something important and fun to look forward to. I am glad I finally spoke up that I would love to as I may have been holding back too much at first. I do love our little group of humans that put this music in the park on all summer. Now, I hope we get the volunteers to lighten the load!
I couldn’t resist taking photos of all the colour variations in my Hollyhocks, so beautiful!!
triumphgal 