triumphgal

July 25, 2021

I must have really really needed sleep as I didn’t wake up until 10:49 am. I then had a lot to do as I had guests tonight, so I got dressed, processed the blueberry order I got and headed outside. When I opened the door there was a strange cat who promptly decided it should come in and check things out. I mowed the lawn, cleaned the pool and trimmed the willow tree before coming in to clean the bathroom and be ready. The random hollyhock is getting bigger and more in the way. I was having a beer with the Neighbour when James and his three year old daughter Willow arrived. I got them settled and they jumped in the pool. After a while I asked if I could invite Sawyer over to play with her and he got dropped off. I had a Hello Fresh meal that I was going to cook just for me but it was a salad and I knew it wouldn’t last well until tomorrow so I asked if they would like dinner too. He was very surprised and happy. I added blueberries to the meal to make it even more delicious. We all had a nice meal and then took the kids across the street to the park for some swing time. James is from Manchester, living in Calgary for the last years. He has a very thick accent and we had some good conversations. His car is hysterical. He got a good deal on it because it had been damaged by hail.

Today is my son Jakes 27th birthday. I sat outside under the tree and made a birthday post on Facebook. Seems I got very emotional and just had a good hard cry. Not sure when I will see him next. I am tired and worn out. My hips are hurting. I think I need to bite off smaller chunks of work to protect my health and body. My throat still hurts as well. I am really going to have to focus this week to get all that needs to be done, done without errors.

July 24, 2021

I did chores and then picked up Lukas to help me with my recycle and go get ice. Then we went for Froyo at Twisted Peaks with the gift certificate Emmy got me. Next stop was the park for summer sounds. Lukas was the water boy tonight and had a great time. He was very good at it and wants to keep coming back when they are not at the lake. He even saw they needed help striking the stage and just went and helped. I think it is really cool that we had a city councilor volunteering tonight and next week a former MP will be as well. That is the kind of community we are building as a society. People from 11 to over 70 making an event for all ages! The beer flowed and the vendors were great and the music was lovely of course.

I received my blueberry order today as it will be some time before I am harvesting much out of my garden. I have the beginnings of Cherry, raspberry and strawberry as well as a couple blueberry

5 stabbed, hospital locked down after Alberta biker gangs brawl in Cranbrook, B.C.: police

That was yesterday and I somehow am not shocked….

Did I mention that one of the highlights of my night was a woman 5 years older than I am asking my grandson if I was his Mom 🙂

July 23, 2021

At 3:10 am I awoke on my stomach choking on bile. I felt like I was throwing up but I didn’t. It was terrifying and left me with a burning sensation and taste I couldn’t shake no matter how may tums I chewed. It took a while to get to sleep and when my alarm went off there was no way I could get functioning. My throat was raw and I sat on the couch for another hour and a half before I could make myself get in the shower. I used the new product I bought from my stylist Nioxin and it has a shampoo, conditioner and leave in. It is supposed to thicken hair and retain colour. Unfortunately it took a bunch of the colour out! I don’t hate it but will have to see how it goes. I sent a pic to Ireland and she said she would fix it if I decide to.

I got to work and finished up a bunch of my volunteer work so I could get on with paid work. I saw the cover photo from the theatre and like it. Maureen took it when we were working there.

My voice was really rough and I have a phlegm feeling making me want to swallow constantly. I didn’t feel like eating but made myself some oatmeal and tried to drink lots of water. I focused on just one file so I wouldn’t make mistakes and when I got too tired around 6 decided to call it a day. I had called the MRI office today to find they did not have the requisition for my torso one, only for the knee. They told me to call my Dr office which I did and she couldn’t see it in my file either so was going to send a message to my Dr. I don’t know how long to wait until I hear something. I really have a strong feeling that the mass in my torso could be part of all my problems. If not, at least we will rule it out or get it out. I stopped to pick up some soap ends and business cards from Jan who makes Goats and Hoes Soap. I had asked her if it would be ok to give them to my guests at my Airbnb. A nice perk for them and maybe further business for her as she sells in the market and some stores.

I have a terrible headache, the smoke was even coming in to my office. When I left work I was shocked how strong the smell was, like a camp fire and that there was ash floating around. That is not helping the feeling in my throat and probably explains the headache. They really have been doing a lot of work on our road. I am so sick of the traffic past my place already as the other side of the parks entrance is blocked. It is supposed to be only 15 but everyone is going by fast and noisy.

And now it is 10:55 and the cars are still rolling up to the place across the street. A young guy bought it and moved in last month, it’s probably his housewarming so I will try not to be cranky bitch. (But I am)

I did make a really good dinner tonight though, can’t wait for lunch tomorrow.

I of course feel like dirt but am not comfortable to lie down yet… I need rest though as tomorrow is Summer sounds and Lukas is going to come help and then stay overnight. He can help me get ready for the guests on Sunday night as well.

July 22, 2021

My car was still holding a puddle this morning so I left it parked in the sun and cracked the windows. It was dry by the time I got home and I put all the bits back together.

In between paid work and getting home, I met with The President, of a board, that is, to put together the budget for the 2022 year end. It went well and I believe we have a good strategic plan for if things go sideways again with the pandemic. The numbers are doubling up with all the travelers and now the border is opening…

Next, I met Maureen for Live music at the FireHall Kitchen & Tap. Her son Angus is in a band that was playing; Connor Foote and the hands. It was great company, great music and great food and beverages. Maureen left to enjoy her evening and we were joined by Will and then Roger. The smoke is really getting thick though and my eyes are sore. It was a nice respite and I shall now buckle down until I complete all my July work. I did remember to pick up the new radios for the theatre as well. Can’t wait to give them a try.

July 21, 2021

At 10:48 pm I was finally done my dinner…

It was such a dark and overcast day, even had a wee bit of rain. Just enough that I decided I probably shouldn’t ride my bike to Elkford tonight. The roads tend to get slicker after a long dry spell. I feel that except for my job which I super concentrated on, there were so many small mistakes in the day. I even took the wrong cheque book with me to buy the radios for the theatre. I will have to go back tomorrow and it set me back in time to get away. The good thing was that this time I did not take the wrong turn. I played the radio and set the cruise control and headed for Elkford with intention to hit up Sparwood on the way back. It did rain a little as I neared my destination. I was glad for my aching body that I chose the comfort of the car. The mission I was on was to purchase 3 very specific brands of cigarettes and send photos and the prices in. They will send me a label to ship them back to the office. I had the list written down like I was shopping for friends on a smoke run and the store clerks were both very helpful and nice. I missed the cheap gas in Elko, 8 cents a litre cheaper than Cranbrook’s because there was a truck on my tail and I hadn’t seen the price on the way up so I could signal and slow down. I tend to be a very courteous driver and when I see a good opportunity for someone to pass me, I start pulling over towards the shoulder, It really surprises me that no one waves thank you anymore. The more annoying thing though is when they pass and then slow down in front of me. I stay constantly on cruise at least 10Km over the limit. I do not like touching my brakes after being passed. There was a cool thing in Elkford that I had to stop and check out.

I stopped in Fernie and found a funny bottle of whisky for Roger’s birthday which I dropped off after picking up some Edo sushi for dinner.

I got home, grateful that the deer are not getting through my makeshift gate. I remembered to check what the clunk was in the cargo area earlier to discover that I forgot about the 11 Litre open water bottle and it had tipped over and filled the space where my spare tire is stored. I removed every thing, scooped out as much as possible and toweled out the rest. I then left the windows down a bit and everything airing out. By the time I was done it was so late and I was really hungry. I am pretty tired of this day… I am also sad at the utter realization of how far Emmy will be moving away when Danika moves to Elkford to be with Malcolm.

July 21, 2021

I worked hard to get an important file done and then accepted an urgent job to go to Sparwood and Elkford. I came home and changed, tried to see how to hook up my new speedo cable, did not manage to, geared up and headed out…. It was ridiculously hot. I had stopped to pick up a unicorn purse that I won a bid for to give to Emmy. On the road I got but the heat was getting to me and I get very confused at a certain intersection at the best of times. Seems like I did this time as well. I started thinking about the fire in the distance that we could see from town, and where my friend lives, if she would be affected… and then I realized I had just passed Canal Flats… suddenly it kicked into my brain that I was heading to where we take the coal to on the trains and I wanted to be going to where we got it from, where we loaded the trains. Yes, I had gone an hour in the wrong direction by then and I was unsure how much gas I had used as I am used to using my odometer as my gas gauge. I had last filled up in Erickson the other night and now had to get back to a station. By the time I pulled up to the pumps I figure by the map app that I went about 250 Km. That is more than I have ever gone on a tank. I chose my usual $20 max and for the first time ever the pump stopped and it wasn’t full at almost 14 Litres. I thank the Fuel Gods for getting me there, I may have been a skeleton on the side of the road, had I run out. I did get to pause long enough to take a picture of the fire. At the Ft Steele Gas station I had a delicious ice cream cone and sat in the shade for a bit before deciding that I was not carrying on to complete my mission. Tomorrow is another day.

After I got home and watered everything, I discovered an ant infestation in the house. They had a trail from the kitchen to the furnace vent under the living-room window. I made sure my cat stayed outside and put out AntBGone. Wow it sure does work fast!! Argh I spoke too soon, it seemed like they were disappearing… I will have to see what the morning brings.

I used my erroneous Hello Fresh meal by adding couscous and cucumbers in place of the missing mushrooms and the beans which were not great. It turned out pretty delicious.

My friend Julie posted a site that showed the wildfire threatening Osoyoos and Oliver. I followed Hwy 3 and the wrong turn I took earlier to find the Bill Nye Mountain fire above Wasa. It really is something.

Once again I am grateful for my Air Conditioning, even if my Hydro bill has been much higher… wait, why? It is natural gas, or maybe it is a lot electric as well… I don’t know, it’s still cheap comfort.

I heard from the sleep clinic today. He had told me it would take 6-8 weeks for results but it only took two. I have severe sleep apnea with oxygen somethingerother issues. They had an opening for me to come back next week but I chose August 3rd so I can get all I need to get done first with out being too tired. I have to bring my mask and hose to be hooked up so they can find the correct pressure to help. My breathing is a little laboured tonight but I suspect it is due to riding through the smoke and heat. At one point I had to pull over as the smoke made my eye water which made my mascara run and burn. Tomorrow I won’t wear any. I’d best get some sleep, it’s going to be a long day.

July 19, 2021

I was sooooo tired today but not sore so that was amazing. I did find myself at one point typing 322222222 before my head bobbed awake at my desk. Of course this all made me review everything more closely and round down on my time. I just kept it in my mind that I just had to make it to 12:45 and then I would be walking over to my hair appointment. Ireland, who usually does my brows and pits has started in the salon across the hall and they specialize in colour so I thought I would give her opportunity to learn. I know she will be supervised by the specialist so I feel comfortable with taking the chance. She is a lovely young lady and I am safe in her hands. When she was done, I knew she was not happy with the results and so she wouldn’t let me pay and scheduled me to come back on Thursday morning to ‘fix’ it and pay then. Once I got home and in my jammies and actually saw it in my mirrors and light, I am fine with it and would rather she just give me a discount than spend more time on it this time. We can do more fun things with it next time. I will let her know that when I go for my brow wax tomorrow and pay her.

I had arranged to stop at Sean’s to sort and pick up some old LPs to use as garden edging. He offered me an Empress gin and then we were in the garage when I got a call that I was supposed to be at a theatre meeting

Turns out I need to scour my email tomorrow and find out why I didn’t receive the one about the meeting tonight for the board nomination committee. I raced over and we had a good discussion. It is important to choose the right potential board members. I really admire Amy and Sheila and Jenn and know we are all coming with our best intentions. I look forward to contacting the two people on my list.

Once I got home I responded to a request to stay from a person with a small dog but I am not sure that is a good idea for Missy and this is her home too. I had to decline. I also dealt with a few Board responsibilities, had delicious leftovers, watered as always and said goodnight to the day. I will try not to dream about the stick bug I found all the way over by the kitchen sink this morning……

July 18, 2021

My adventure friend, Diane invited me to go Kayaking today. I couldn’t wait. It has been at least 15 years since I have done so and that was in Ganges Harbour off Salt Spring Island. I was getting ready to leave and she had mentioned needing another strap so I haded to the shed to get one to bring. I twisted. My ankle off the edge of the concrete paver and fell forward scraping my knee like a 10 year old falling off my bike. I jammed two fingers pretty hard as well. I got myself together, applied some bag balm and headed over to her place.

We loaded up and tied down the kayaks. She has it down to a science and has two step ladders for being able to reach. The Thule rack system is really superb. And then we were off to St Mary Lake just this side of Kimberley. It was a lovely drive up and I don’t even remember ever being there before although I have to have been there back in the 80s when we lived near and camped a lot. The decision was that if we got up there and the smoke from Bill Nye Mtn fire was too bad, we would turn around and head out to Moyie. It turned out that there were very few people at one in the afternoon and the sky was clear and beautiful. We found a good place to park and set to readying to go out, with a cooler of snacks and all.

I was unnerved by the first time I had to step in as I was unsure what my leg would do. Diane is very patient assisting. Once I settled in it all came back to me and I was so happy to be there. The day was just perfect. For the first long time it was calm and we even stopped out in the middle and had a snack and I cracked the one cold one I brought along. We set a goal to head to the farthest point down the lake which you can see marked by the blue arrow in the first lake picture above. About 3/4 of the way, the wind started picking up and we did some serious work to get ahead. We made it though and that felt good. There was no place to get out safely though as it was all silt and Diane sunk in when she stepped out. We hung out for a bit enjoying the area before carrying on along the shore to our right.

We puttered our way back, stopping on a rocky shore point to stand up in the shallow water and stretch. I was actually surprised how good I felt. My knee wasn’t bothered and my hip only throbbed a little when seated. Diane has expensive very lightweight paddles and they are great! No sore hands or blisters in spite of the distance covered. Once we got back to shore I was shocked to turn around and see how much smoke had rolled in. As I walked up with both hands full I suddenly felt a bite that resemble a hot ember feeling. I have no idea what it was but only an ice pack on it helped at all. We sat and had a wee picnic before loading the boats and were joined by a little cutie.

On the road out we stopped at the fresh water pipe coming ou of the side of the mountain and filled our bottles. There was a MASSIVE rock in the trees across from it. It had to have rolled down the hill long before all the trees grew up. I almost feel guilty getting drinking water straight out of the side of a mountain when so many go without clean drinking water.

When we got further down the road and I got reception, there was a text from Rae that the front tire had blown on Roger’s truck while going downhill on the highway with the whole family onboard. He handled it well and they were all fine. I remember that happening when I was with my brother in his truck, it is sooooo loud and frightening. I am so grateful they are all ok.

Once I got home, I spent time watering my garden, and cleaning my pool which was full of caterpillar poop as they are eating the leaves off the willow high up over the pool. I cleaned as much as I could and them shocked it and put a chemical to deal with organic materials. I want it to be good for the clients booked next weekend. I then came in and took an antihistamine as the bite is spreading and sore, had a shower and made some delicious dinner. I have been considering going to the hospital as it is getting worse. I may got to bed and see how it is in the morning.

July 17, 2021

The day started with Laundry and maintaining my water softener system before heading to get a mani-pedi. I stopped at Culligan on the way and picked up an 11 and a 15 L bottle of water to use later. It was a glorious hour and a half and I love my new nails that match my volunteer t-shirt.

Picked up a few more things and headed to Rotary Park. It was so much fun and there were around 500 people which was amazing. We got about 66 new members and a bunch of donations. Those really matter for us to get grants and keep putting on free concerts in the park all summer. We do the Summer Sounds until the end of August and then on Sept 10 and 11 put on Peak Music Festival. Tonight’s performers were the Confluentials with our own Board Member, Barry Coulter followed by Baker Street Blues from Nelson. In between, Maureen and I were the information entertainment. It was a lot of fun. We bantered well off each other. I look forward to coming up with new Schtick each week and am glad she asked. I helped out around the booth and then was the water girl. I put the card I bought to good use and it seemed very popular bringing clean cold water to the crowd. I used disinfectant wipes in between people and wore my mask while doing it. Don’t want to take any chances in the last four days before my two weeks are up. I did hug a couple people though.. The music was so good and the crowd was so freaking well behaved!! Great fun was had and all is right with the world. It is amazing that in spite of no liquor license and thus no beer garden, no food trucks, but a snack lady, and the music stopped just after 9 instead of at 10… it was a juge success!!

Missy was not all that impressed with being in all evening. She did miss me and kept coming in for a swipe against my legs.

July 16, 2021

At work and at the payroll. It is a never ending story. I was thrilled when Stacey arrived for the cash for Crab swap. This is what 157.50 of Dungeness Crab from Haida Gwaii looks like. I can not wait to enjoy it. I will have to pause my Hello Fresh for a week as I plan to just eat crab. Once I thaw it there will be no wasting.

I headed out to pick up a screen that I bought second hand for outdoor movie nights. From their location I could really see the fire that is kicked up in the mountains. On the way back to the office I took opportunity to stop for bloodwork and hit up Canadian Tire for a cool wagon and a pump for big bottles to use at Summer Sounds. I hope to introduce the ViMF water crew idea here. I know how much I love when they come round and offer to fill my water bottle.

After I finally finished everything I needed to get completed today, I came home and switched into Motorcycle clothes and boots and headed to Creston. Now I love road trips, jump in the car, crank the AC and the tunes and enjoy the ever changing scenery. But I really love a motorcycle road trip. I can’t go as long, I think due to my leg pain issue, but I sure do love it. I mean you can FEEL the scenery, enjoy it at a whole different level. Every smell and site, occasional taste even is vibrant and enjoyable. Even gross diesel truck smells make me feel alive. The only problem is that it is barely comfortable to ride at the moment due to the heat. I wore my jacket just connected by the zipper at the bottom and my jeans and Blundstones and summer gloves but it was still uncomfortable. The ride home was cooler as I left Cranbrook at 6:22, left Creston at 7:23 and arrived in the driveway at 9:33. The hour time change makes the timing of things so odd. I did stop at the Fas Gas and Rocky, the manager was awesome! He has only been in Creston for 4 months and he was really delightful. He told me that the gas was much cheaper today to treat his customers because he had run out of gas for a couple days and he wanted to keep them happy. Who does that!!! I highly recommend stopping there, in Erickson, just outside Creston. I didn’t even realize it is a general store with liquor and all.

While I was there a guy with his young kid in a big tuck hauling a trailer load of hay, was patiently waiting for me to move my bike. I apologized and he said it was ok, he was admiring my bike and to please have a safe ride. Honestly, people can be so nice. I saw quite a few bikes on the road and I can tell you the only part I didn’t like was the grooved pavement. They are doing a rather long stretch of repaying. I was blessed by the fact that I didn’t know and only had one 3 minute stop in the shade on the way there. It is a bit uncomfortable for me to be riding without a speedometer though so I may make time to replace the cable on the weekend. When there were so few cars going in my direction it was hard to go with the flow of traffic and I have to get used to the feel of my bike again after not riding much for a long time.

I pulled over to take one more picture before turning toward home. It’s not looking good.

July 15, 2021

Construction is continuing, still not blocked in though, so that is a plus. I am excited as it is hair cut and colour day! I slept ok and am experiencing a bit of soreness in my leg. I was told the shot could take a few days to work though.

I was sad to learn first thing that my appointment needed to be moved to Monday as she was sick in the night. I do appreciate it but am disappointed. I worked hard and got a lot done but am still having trouble focusing. I came home and started making supper as Rae and I made a plan to go see Black Widow AT THE THEATRE!! I was so excited to have my steak and mushrooms but in the bag were two onions instead of mushrooms and garlic. That was disappointing as well. I made the Mediterranean Turkey instead. Big, big, big mistake there. I got terrible heartburn, gas and discomfort while in the movie. We had the super big comfie chairs at least so I could move around.

I did really enjoy the movie. There was hardly anyone there and it was very energetic. I didn’t love all of it but overall was impressed. It had many Star Warslike moments, from the outfits to the bad guy. Glad to have seen it on the big screen. Afterwards we went for a drink at The Firehall as we noticed there was live music as we were driving by. Unfortunately it was over 15 minutes after we got there but it was nice to sit on the patio and catch up.

Danika sent me a text that made me laugh. There are several songs I sing bits of with Emmy. One of them is Boom Shakalaka

This is what Danika sent me for a chuckle

I enjoyed being out tonight but I have been thinking that the last 16 months have shown me that the more time I spent alone, the more I learned how happy I am alone. I am pretty good company. This past week has been a lot and I need to be sure to book time alone. I received a bunch more Airbnb bookings this summer. I need to build in breaks and make sure I get my bathroom done before winter.

July 14, 2021

I was, for no particular reason, looking at the items on the back of my toilet this morning when I realized there was one thing missing. Ironically it is the item that belongs there the most and adds humour to the whole collection. I think it was actually on my mind because it was my friend for over 40 years, birthday a while ago and I posted a picture from 1979 on his profile. I love this picture as I was 16 and had a Bond Girl Figure. I just didn’t realize it then. I also realize that I still stand like that, very action figure, lol. I posted it again for my kid brother, Greg today. He is 55!

When I went out to water this morning I found 4 more blueberries ripened. It is the little plant that just keeps giving. Pretty great for it’s first year.

I arrived at work with intention to get lots done before my Dr appointment at 9:50. I put my key in the lock and the whole tumbler turned and it wouldn’t open. They called the locksmith and unfortunately it didn’t get opened before I had to leave. I went to my appt to find that I should double up on my nerve pain meds, go for blood work, get referred for an MRI and get a shot in my knee. I went and got the prescription filled for the shot, dropped puzzles for the friends of the library to sell and then headed back to work. I was able to get an appointment with the duty Dr to get the shot at 4. I also need and MRI for my gut growth so I asked if they could do it the same day. She said to ask when they call to book.

Back at the office I once again didn’t get as much paid work done as I would have liked but I did get a lot of volunteer items out of the way. I headed to the Dr and received the shot in my knee. It was so odd feeling, awkward to walk on at first. It didn’t seem to take too long before the freezing wore off though and tonight I am able to sit with my feet up for the first time in a long time. I tried to make it to get blood work but missed it so I will try again in the morning. I came home for a rest and cool down before heading to Rotary Park for a Board meeting for Fisher Peak Performing Artists Society. We needed to make all the plans for Saturday when we launch Summer Sounds for the season. Music in the park every Saturday night is back!!! It was so nice to meet in person for the first time in a very long time. Afterward, Maureen and I went to the Firehall and enjoyed wine and split fish and chips which were very good. It was so nice to visit and relax!!

July 13, 2021

I took the long way to work this morning. It is only 4 minutes but I took over 15 on my bike. The temperature was perfect and I just had to do a loop around town. I made a plan to go do a mystery shop in Creston on Friday night so I will ride there for sure. I had an appointment with my beautician today and made a plan to have her do a cut and fun colour for me on Thursday. It was lovely to work with Fridays video of MusicFest playing in the background. An hour and 28 in was the interview I did. It turned out great! I left work at a reasonable time and just came home to make some dinner and relax. I was definitely peopled out and so tired still.

July 12, 2021

It was nice to have my Mom overnight. It is just a shame that it was a Monday and I had to head in to get peoples payroll done. I was happy to accomplish something for a client that hadn’t happened for the last three years. It is the satisfying part of the job to get to do a happy dance. I met with my friend Matt who spent time with me working out the needs for gear for the Tech booth. We have a grant and I need to get the items ready for when the theatre is finished being renovated. It felt good to make a plan and a list and reach out to three different local businesses for different parts of the list. I always want to spread the love around and keep things ‘in the family’. After that I picked up my Mom and we headed out to Meadowbrook on the outskirts of Kimberley where a bunch of her family live and share a meal with more extended family. We really are a lot of fun when we get together. I left Mom there as she and Rosie are heading back to Blind Bay tomorrow and then Mom will head home soon after to Surrey. It was a short visit with her this time and I worry as she has allowed Covid to age her terribly. I think she has spent far too much time sitting and now hobbles along with her cane in spite of having two new hips. I admit to lecturing her to get out walking more.

I received two more bookings for August and was super impressed with one of them as she explained her whole trip and her safety plan and about being vaccinated. I really appreciate that. I think I will add to my profile that I am fully done as well so they will know before booking.

They are really making headway on the infrastructure changes that are coming along with the development next door. The only concern is that there is now only one entry into our park and it may be gone soon as well. They did warn us that there may be periods where we will not be able to go in and out. I hope we get warning before that becomes reality.

So, my cat.. she has a very distinctive meow, much like a Siamese. When she wants out, she lets me know with certainty. We have a routine though and it amuses me. I stand at the door with my hand on the knob and say, ‘say please’ to which she immediately lets out a tiny short meow in a completely different voice. Cats are so dang smart they are kind of scary, lol.

I am not sure if it is all the peopling the last few days or still the side effects of the shot but I am pretty much dragging butt.

July 11, 2021

The women left at a decent time without much fanfare and I washed and reset the trailer. Emmy and I really did have a lovely time today. After breakfast she coloured the unicorn and I spray painted the horn. I coloured her braids purple which she let me know was only ok because it would wash out, or her Mom wouldn’t like it. She chose lunch at McDonalds for the toy and was thrilled to get the girl bunny from Space Jam. There was much great conversation between the two of us and I had a very good chuckle at one point. I had made arrangements with a local woman to go try on some Fluevogs so I told Emmy over lunch that I had to go to try on shoes next. We drove up and parked in front of the house and I hear from the back seat “so we are just going to some random person’s house to try on shoes?” They sadly did not fit so off to the Dollarstore for party supplies we went. I planned to have a swack of family over for a bbq as Rosie, my mom and as it happened, uncle Bryan, were all visiting. It was all planned and I was looking forward to it when I realized it was my daughter’s step-mom’s birthday tomorrow so I slipped into birthday party mode. Rae ordered a DQ cake and Emmy and I went for supplies. She became the party planner and we got all pink things with a princess theme. It was so funny in the store as it seems Emmy has not been in a big store since Covid. Everything she saw was ‘AMAZING’ or “AWESOME”!! It was highly entertaining to watch her take it all in. I dropped her off and got home to get things ready and then Danika brought her back later, after a birthday party for a friend. Mom and Rosie, Donna, Rae and Roger and boys. Ashlée, Bill and Deanne, Emmy and then Uncle Lawrence and Uncle Bryan made for a great deal of good conversation, good summer eats (Donna’s homemade pickles!) and a lot of splashing in the pool. I love our big family events and it has been far too long. That was the best three hours!! After cleaning up the yard and watering the garden, I moved indoors to tidy up while playing Vancouver Island MusicFest. So much, soooo good. It had the vibe of the Sunday night at Fest. Colin Linden and guests including Chip Esten, who played Deacon on Nashville, were just fabulous and as I write I am listening to the cool styles of William Prince. I absolutely throw aside any doubts I had about continuing on. If they will have me (they will), I will be back next year and every year after until I can no longer.

I got my x-ray results today through the health portal and it says nothing wrong but if patient continues to have symptoms, perhaps an MRI. Good grief. It will be interesting to hear what the Dr has to say. The Physiotherapist feels it is my lower spine having issues. We shall see. Mom is tucked in here and that is nice but I will admit to lecturing her as she has two new hips and is hobbling along because she doesn’t keep moving.

July 10, 2021

Slept until almost 10 which was shocking, clearly needed it. Poor Mike had been up for a long time trying to get his bike going. Seems it may need a new starter solenoid. I got dressed and pushed him down the road here trying to get it started but it didn’t catch and my hip and leg said no more. I spotted my dear friend Matt. He is a farmer who works a property over so I asked if he could help. Fortunately it started and Mike was on his way to the Kawasaki shop to seek help so he didn’t have to rely on the kindness of strangers whenever he stopped for gas.

I spent the next several hours working on the change over for the next guests, cleaning bathroom, washing sheets and blanket and towels, finishing weeding garden and cleaning the pool. Emmy arrived around 2 and we had, as she put it, a really great day. I had saved things for her to do around the house: put magnetic picture frames up on the fridge (great fun trying to recognize people in them), plant forget me nots (her fingers are perfect poke hole size for the seeds) and sticking googlie eyes around the yard (collected from a prank at the workspace). We took time out to care for the Stick Bugs and she was very brave to have one crawl up her arm.

We played a very long time in the pool and she was the canon ball queen. I can’t believe she was actually swimming trying to spot the toy sharks on the bottom.

The whole time I had my very good quality sound dock and iPad playing day 2 of Vancouver Island Music Fest. It has been soooo great and wonderful to see my friends in their interviews as well. It was on in the background and when Emmy heard Willow, she came running over to watch and then started dancing. Such a cutie patootie.

My airbnb guests arrived while I was making dinner and Emmy went out to greet them. She had a meltdown inside when I wouldn’t let her go outside to play as I knew she wanted to go see them and I wanted to give them space as they were not expecting a child on site. I let her cry for a while after sending her to her bed to calm down. I then went in and swept her into my arms for a cuddle as we practiced smelling the flowers and blowing out the candles. I saw that on “Manifest” and determined to try it next time someone was stressed out. The breathing exercise worked perfectly. She came and sat down to dinner which she immediately said she didn’t like because it was all piled together and that she liked soya sauce not my sauce. I put some soya sauce on a bit of it and then watched her devour it. I am glad she liked the veggie meat.

I read to her and she went to sleep almost immediately. We are both tired from our day and I am aching. Not doing well walking or sitting. I am about to take a pain killer and nerve med and go to bed but I don’t want to as there is still an hour and 45 of music Fest left tonight. At least I most recently saw and met Tom Jackson here in Cranbrook who is the last performer tonight, so I am ok with missing him. Also it is going to be replayed so that I can catch the end. I may just go to sleep listening.

It really feels satisfying to have the yard this maintained. I will try to pick up the records from Sean, maybe tomorrow to get it all ready for family all coming for a BBQ tomorrow night. Inside is tidy too!!! Shocking!! (Ok, hard work actually)

July 9, 2021

I went to bed early so was up at a decent time and got on with all the things I needed to do in short order.

Lawn mowed. Combi-camp unwinterized. Linens washed and dried. Ruggable washed and dried. Inside: Den reorganized, beds readied for Mom and Emmy, floors cleaned, everything tidied, Bathroom scoured and sanitized.

All things for the Airbnb were completed and then I realized it was 5 and I need to jump in the shower. Of course, while I was in there my guest arrived but he just grabbed a spot in the shade and relaxed until I came out. Mike Young turned out to be a 60 year old nice man who retired from CP but contracts back to them as a signalman. He lives in Medicine Hat and has a lovely wife and two daughters. It was so great to chat about trains and bikes and travels before I had to head out to volunteer for Key City Theatre. The event tonight was the first one since November, I believe. It was the comedian, Mike Delamont and was at The Royal Alexandra which is a beautiful venue for this type of show. I actually laughed out loud a few times which is unusual for me. Afterward I stopped at the liquor store and then came home to water my garden before settling in to watch Vancouver Island MusicFest streaming. I made it in time to watch Leonard Sumner, and then the Island Blues with some sick talent. David Vest blows me away. Angel Forrest left it all on the stage and our own Doug Cox who I am honoured to call friend just amazed me. I have not had the pleasure to see him perform like that before and he is really something.

https://app.gign.ca/view-show/TSTNAUvMRaUY0x6Qmc2s

July 8, 2021

I couldn’t bring myself to get to work until 10 or so. I was too tired and my joints ache. My shoulder above the jab is hot and aches. I worked at getting things off the list, things that could wait until next week so I can be sure I will be good to go to MusicFest next year without worry. I stopped at Safeway on the way home to get lettuce for the Stickbugs and picked up a bunch of things using my gift card. I had some dinner and sewed the last cushion as I have another booking tomorrow night. Seems I have a niche. This is a guy on a bike as well. I have been trying to close some of the days but the calendar isn’t working right now. I am going to invite the family over for a bbq on Sunday as Mom will be staying here Sunday and Monday night. I am riding the couch watching Season 3 of Breaking Bad. I am surprised I am enjoying it so much with all the bloodshed. No great stories, just chronicles of a sleepy head tonight. I am glad I booked my day clear tomorrow. At least my arm is feeling better and the antihistamine worked to take away the tape reaction.

July 7, 2021

Last night was quite the experience. The 24 year old technician was delightful and we had a few good laughs as he was wiring me up. When I first saw the harness and wires on the bed, I thought, that’s not too bad. But then he pulled out a whole nest more. I was wired all over my head, face, lower legs, arms, chest and an oximeter on my middle finger. Dead sexy that’s a big 10-4.

I had a fairly good sleep anyway as I was so exhausted. He did have to wake me up at 0530 which was not my favourite, and after I was all unhooked and changed I had to fill out a questionnaire. Unfortunately results take 6-8 weeks. He did say to use my machine again and the only thing he would tell me was that yes I did snore, when I asked. I still had nasty goop stuck everywhere so I came home to shower up, check on Missy and was at work before 0730. My Hollyhocks are so beautiful.

I am tired enough that I had to really concentrate on one thing at a time today. I left at 2 to head to the vaccination clinic as I heard I could walk in without an appointment. My scheduled one isn’t until the 18th so I was grateful there was no lineup and I got it done. 2nd Pfizer for the win! I felt like doing the Viagra little blue pill dance from the commercials, I was so happy when it was done.

I came home intending to have a nap but hung the holder I bought yesterday and got a bit organized around here before sitting on the couch to relax. I really love my colour changing lights! I can change the colours, speed and intensity.

Before having a nap I reached out to Rae to see if we were doing dinner out tonight. There was a big miscommunication as I thought she said she had Emmy and they were all coming over for a swim. What I thought was that she was coming right away but she was at work until 5. I got hangry and tired and the sky opened up while I was waiting for them.

https://www.facebook.com/marnee.bellavance/videos/977261736443172/

https://www.facebook.com/marnee.bellavance/videos/863215677612951//

Gene made crap dinner for the kids and then I made Hoisin Glazed Pork Meatballs for Rae and I. Unfortunately I Couldn’t concentrate and there was a lot going on. It took all the way until she had to eat and run to get Emmy home to her Mom and bed. Emmy and Sawyer had fun in the pool as the sky had cleared before they left. At least dinner was delicious.

I sewed two more cushion covers, one to go. I am having a reaction under my chin and on my chest to the tape and or goop used to hold the wires on. I have taken and antihistamine but am a bit burning and sore. Fortunately nothing at my shot site. Like last time I can’t even tell I got it. Will see how tomorrow goes.

I am still obsessing a bit about the fact that I got my ultrasound results today and it is recommended I get an MRI because of the size of the mass. I will discuss it with my Dr. next Wednesday. So may things going on…