Winding Down with Naomi

Finding things...

2012-02-03T22:20:00.002-05:00

It's a little early in the season to be finding things, I think.

Usually the melting of snow and the finding of random, sodden objects doesn't begin for at least another month or two.

Fun things found in the melting snow- mail (addressed to a co-worker) found next to a parking spot...it thawed/dried out ok, a windshield scraper- found in a bank at the edge of a parking lot, and last, and certainly not least, gravel, all over my strip of grass beside my driveway. I'm going to have to get better at shoveling without digging deep. I'll need to get my rake out or something and toss all those stones back onto the driveway. Anyone with young kids want to come over to help? :)

It seems too early for all of these finds. I am not silly enough to think winter is over. I'm sure there will be plenty of shoveling left for me to work on my technique!

What fun have you found in the melting snow?
(Thanks for singing with me Bec!)
Til next time...

Grumble, grumble

2012-01-30T21:18:00.003-05:00

Ok. That's enough of that.

It was a long day, but now I'm home. I can let the grumbles be dismissed and leave it at that.

Some fun:

"put on your red shoes and dance the blues"

ok... think that's all I'm gonna come up with tonight for interesting song lyrics from the drive today...cause my mind is tired. Or wait, there was something about "frustration incorporated,...misery"
But seriously- I have serious moonlight stuck in my head right now...help?

Please share interesting lyrics with me. It will make my day, or my tomorrow. Who knows?

I guess we could consider it winter now

2012-01-20T19:12:00.004-05:00

It's been an interesting season. Winter, that is. It had been rather mild, and snow wasn't sticking around...until recently. I was also wondering why I had even thought about getting someone to clear my driveway, and had been glad to not waste that money. Well...the shovel has gotten a work out this week. It's become my morning ritual to peek out the front window at the driveway before getting ready in the morning so I can pull on the woollies and go shovel if necessary!

I do enjoy snow. I don't enjoy snow-covered roads and slick roads. So far there have been a number of corners that I didn't feel were executed well because of slip-sliding.

This weekend, if I don't find tonnes to do, I may go for a romp through the snow locally. Check out the neighbourhood whilst it's covered in snow. I may look and see if there's a good sledding hill nearby- for nieces and nephews who may want to come and play.

For you: some pictures of a couple of beaches. One warm, the other, not quite as warm. You should be able to figure it out pretty easily!!

Excuse me....

2012-01-15T21:09:00.003-05:00

I believe it was Friday. I had popped out after work to grab a few things to prepare for the final Christmas party of 2011 *which was great fun!* and stopped in quickly at one of the stores nearby to grab a couple things for the office. I was shopping alone, so didn't expect to have my attention drawn to anyone, but there was this cute "excuse me" from across the ailse, behind me.

I turned to look. There was a sweet girl, probably 7 or 8 years old, holding a toy, no, make that 3. She quickly went on to ask my opinion on which item she should get...Blue was her favourite colour, but the green one was cool, as was the brown. She thought she'd like someone to help her decide...and I quickly looked them over and suggested green. It was painted a bit better, and looked just right. She accepted my opinion (though I'd really only voiced that I'd go for the green one). I was done in that aisle, so I left for the register.

As I got close to finishing my transaction I heard her voice again. She was SOOO excited that she had found something for exactly the amount she had with her...but then, there was this other one that was soooo great too. It made me grin. She was very determined to buy something with her very own money, and everything there was just such good buying potential.

I've been trying to think if money has ever really "burnt a hole in my pocket" wanting to be spent sooooo badly. Certainly not lately, and I can think of good saving in the past...but I also remember the days when I found a quarter on the street and HAD to go to the store with mom to get something!

It's been a while since I posted any photos for you. Alas- this is not that day...but likely soon. I have some fun ones from Christmas parties, some of the view from my new place and more from Australia. Come back soon to enjoy!

Cooking!

2012-01-08T21:22:00.002-05:00

I've been cooking this weekend. This isn't particularly a new or different thing, but I've been making things without a recipe and they've been turning out tasty!

Yesterday I pulled a fish fillet out of the freezer and thought I should defrost before pan frying...so I did. And while it was defrosting I managed to chop up some mini potatoes, some onion and some mushrooms and threw them in a pan with some greek salad dressing...those roasted up nice! The fish, once thawed, cooked up sooooo nicely that I didn't put anything else on it! Just ate it up as it was!

Today I made a "home cooked" meal for my parents. I put a roast on, tossed in more potatoes, onions, carrots and later some mushrooms. It also turned out well. (Mom made the gravy). We added a salad and voila! MMMmmm. They brought over some wine, we followed the meal with some green tea and it was just lovely! Some of these foods are so easy to make, just need to be thought about a little sooner than "hmmm, I'm hungry. What can I pull together in 30min or less?". I enjoy making things more from scratch.

In the past I've rather enjoyed using my crock pot for soups...and have had some fun with them too!

I should keep up this cooking thing. It's not too difficult and, though I get tired of leftovers rather quickly, it doesn't hurt to have them! Too bad I have to plan ahead for some of these things.

Have you ever done the "big cooking" on the weekend so that you have easy meals the next week?

Change of plans

2012-01-04T17:11:00.002-05:00

It seems there are a lot of times in life when there is a small, average or grandios change in plans. I don't always know what's best for me. I'm glad that God does.

Today's change in plans was nothing big, but it does give me a bit more "free time" than I initially expected. I think I will be able to find plenty of things to fill in that spare time...in fact, I've already managed to put the garbage out and get groceries. (Putting the garbage out requires driving to a local dumping ground where I get to further sort what I'm recycling etc).

Yesterday I intended to get up early enough to shovel my driveway, have a quick shower and still be at work for about 830...change of plans! I was woken by a friendly neighbourhood mom who let me know that the highway was closed due to road and weather conditions. This changed the speed at which I was able to leave my house, but I definitely needed to shovel the drifts which were my driveway before I could even think about going anywhere.

When I started blogging I thought I'd be good at getting a minute or three to share funny stories or just unwind from the craziness of school/work, but it seems I was wrong (if last year was anything to go by!). However, I do intend to blog a little more frequently...and by that I mean I may have challenged my sister that I'll blog more than her this year....hehehe oops!

Happy 11th day of Christmas!!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T07:46:00.003-05:00

Joy to the World , the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the World, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders, of His love.

Merry Christmas to you! Forgive me for the length of time between posts...I keep meaning to pop by and say hello...maybe that shall be a new year's resolution!

God bless you this Christmas!

Celebrating from afar

2011-08-27T15:26:00.003-04:00

One of those days. I wish I was home, with my family, trying to jostle my way between two family weddings on the same day. Instead of enjoying the fun and family and weddings, I'm sitting at home, waiting for the phone to ring. I suppose I've averted a few minor disasters today, but it didn't have to be me to catch them.

This finishing off somewhere, to get ready to move and say goodbye to all the friends I've made here, well...it's for the birds. I wish I could take all the good from here and bring it with me...and not have to say goodbye to all the fun people I've had the opportunity to work with. I have had to hold myself back from crying today...on more than one occassion. I feel the need for a big hug. Courtland, over there, isn't providing one for me today. In fact, she's cleaning her tail. Ignoring me, rather obviously.

At some point the moving bug will bite and I'll start boxing things up again. It may be in the rather near future...don't have many days of work left in front of me. (At least, not until I start the next chapter)
Must go...work is calling

Ok, back again! The whole point of this blog was to be sending my best wishes to my cousins: Matthew, cousin on my dad's side, and Jason, cousin on my mom's side...both of whom are getting married today- making it tricky and fun for my family to attend both celebrations!! I pray that you both have wonderful days and married lives!! (Matthew and Ashley Kl... and Jason and Ashley Ku...- will make remembering my new cousins' names very easy, wont it?!)

I hope you have wonderful days and I hope those of the family able to join in at the festivities have a grand ol' time!

Nothing new

2011-07-19T20:43:00.002-04:00

And yet, here I am, typing about it.
I'm on the "wrong" computer again, so I don't have my photos all available for upload. I could, possibly, add some rather old ones, but we'll see.

It's VBS week here! You're welcome to come and join the crowd. I'm working every morning this week, so I'm not getting to spend much time there, but I hope to make it again tomorrow. I enjoy being an extra body to help out!

If you're in the area (Moncton, NB) and have kids aged 5-12 you can join us for a Big Jungle Adventure 9am-noon at Good Shepherd Lutheran, check it out : vbs.GoodShepherd.nb.ca

Now that the advertising is done...I should probably get to turning things off and heading to bed. Hope to drop another line or three again soon!

Why did the cat visit me with a wet paw?

2011-06-09T20:21:00.003-04:00

Because she found a new water source inside the house, that's why.

No, I didn't leave the toilet seat up...guess again.

No, she has not figured out how to turn on the faucets.

No, the water wasn't seeping in through the fireplace (at least not yet).

Yes, it's raining, but she didn't find a way to sneak outside.

I figured it out when I heard the sound of running (not dripping) water without anyone else around coming from the bathroom. I quickly said goodbye to Allison and family and signed out of videochatting....
Rushed over towards the source of the sound to find water streaming down the blinds. Took them off. There were four or five streams of water pouring down from the inside of the fitted window, filling my bucket much fuller in 1 minute than that whole ceiling leak did the whole time.

Sigh. I spent too many minutes bucket to window, finding towels to sop things up...calling the landlord.

It has settled down, but as the rain hasn't, I'm not expecting tonight to be fun. Except for the fact that mom and dad are expected any time, unless this crazy storm slows them down.
I will update you soon...maybe with a photo...

Update: please see my oh so lovely videography. Commentary, um, I need to get better at making my movies I think! The dripping did stop from the window, mom and dad did arrive and I even managed to spend a bit of time with them while they were here. The roof is being worked on, little by little, and hopefully I won't have more leaks to contend with while I live here.

In case the video wont work for you I have a still shot too:

Mom and Dad drove home this week and made it safely!! So glad they were able to come for their visit, even if it was too short.

Will post soon some of the fun of the visit, which included a day with Peter too!

An interesting drive last night.

2011-04-27T10:18:00.002-04:00

Interesting in a good way. No accidents, no swerving to miss critters.

Yes. It rained a bunch in Southern Ontario yesterday. Then it stopped and left a lovely fog behind. I almost wondered if my brother Peter was traveling with me, the fog was so thick. (heehee). It was a thick, pea soup fog, which made seeing the lights on 6 interesting. (Or rather, difficult. The ones by the Wendy's at the top of the hill- nearly was upon them without seeing them or the cars stopped and waiting). I also wasn't able to see the dinosaurs that usually show up quite well. (They are big, don'tcha know?) I was a little worried that the drive would take FOREVERly long. I stopped after a while to refresh myself, though the fog had progressively lessened it wasn't gone by halfway home.

Then, I arrived at a town which is often a crossroads for my journeys and found the fog had lifted and there were stars visible! I was quite excited to see the stars, but was almost instantly surprised by the lightning. I drove with lightning to the North all the way home from there. Never more than a minute between strikes.

Also, the signs of spring, they are everywhere. It was sounding quite like a spring night, as the peepers and chirppers were out in earnest. I had to put the window down at one point to savour the sound!!

But crazy frogs- they decided they would try to play a 2011 version of frogger. They jumped and they jumped across the road. I don't recall squishing any, but other cars had been enforcing the "Game Over" for a few of them, along the way.

I did make it home safely, though. It's sometimes fun to have added excitement to your drive, when it's not of the dangerous kind.

Happy trails to you!

The plottings of a cat

2011-04-19T19:32:00.003-04:00

I am guilty. Of putting words/thoughts into animals mouths/actions. I do it all the time. There are times when it just makes having the little critter funnier to be around. Sometimes it just makes sense. Of course that's what they were thinking/doing.

Case in point. (And my brother-in-law Adrian helped all the way from Australia).
Yesterday morning. Eating breakfast at the table. Cat is standing on the bench, paws on the window sill, head pushing aside the blinds.
Adrian said something to the effect of oh, she's plotting. Watching the birds out in the backyard. Planning on knocking you out as you leave the house, jumping over your body and setting out to catch a bird.
Got me thinking. I was just a bit later chatting with Bec. Now the cat was staring at the fireplace. As noted before, she's helped me find things in this house by staring, so I was worried that there was a bug or a bird in the chimney. Then I started thinking...no, she's plotting once more. She's just waiting for me to open the doors to the fireplace where she plans to scootch past me, through the partially open mesh and climb up the chimney to freedom and birds.

As of right now, she's dreaming up new plots as she sleeps on the chair over there <--
Crazy critter. But I like her.

In other news- home this week! Looking forward to it, but maybe not all that I need to get done before I head out. Hope to greet you all with Easter greetings while at home. Hugs and love!

Feel free to share your animal plots with me!!

Lenten musings

2011-04-01T12:31:00.003-04:00

As part of my Lenten devotions I have taken up reading The Book of Concord. You would think that I'd have read it all before, but this is my first time through. I have an editied by Kolb and Wengert version, and am currently working my way through the German translation, following the Left side page. I know I wont make it through the whole thing this Lenten season, but I'm making bigger strides than I thought I would!

Some thoughts that have come up relating to lent and the book of concord.

One teaching that I was shocked to read about, in the Augsburg Confession, that Lutherans were professing against, was that the Lord's supper was seen as what we do to atone for our current sins, or provide a sacrifice for sins to obtain grace by our works. That Christ died and his death only removes original sin and he instituted his supper (or the Mass) as a sacrifice for other sins. Article XXIV

How does it always come back to how our sinful selves can do something to make things right? Why can't we trust and believe that God forgives sins for the sake of Jesus, not because of any worthiness on our parts?

"8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, ⁹ not a result of works, so that no one may boast."Ephesians 2: 8-9

I am thankful that God has it all planned out and fixed for us, in spite of us!

Hiding places

2011-03-18T20:36:00.003-04:00

I've seen some fun hiding places, but tonight I finally found Courtlands main toy depot. I don't think she was all that happy with it, as she has been batting at a toy there for a while- I know, because I could hear it. The jingly bell on a stick. Whoever came up with that sure knows cats.

Or as Peter would say, my dog.

She's very good at playing fetch. I can toss any number of items and she will race across the room, or down the stairs to retrieve it. I do enjoy hearing her scurry to get her toys. I think I need a puppy.

Back to that hiding place. Under a tall bookshelf in my "office" is a small space. She can reach under the bookshelf, but obviously not far enough. Tonight, when I heard the dingle, I decided to help her by pulling it out. In the process of swishing a long stick under the shelf in the deep, dark hole to get it I discovered 2 springs, 4 scrunchy balls and the dingle bell on a stick. There may have been something else, but I can't remember. She's already dispersed them around the house. Off she goes "fetching" again.

I also had a child hide at work for me this week. That's always fun. She was very proud of her hiding place.

My little buddy A is moving soon. He's my next best hider. He hides lots of fun places, even in his dog's crate at times. I've enjoyed watching him grow and look forward to spending time with him online and hopefully getting out to SK to visit.

Soon spring will be here, and the snow has been melting for the past two weeks to prove it. I'm amazed at the amount of snow still here with 2 weeks of warmer weather and rain, but when you've got as much as we did this winter, it takes a while. I will share photos with you once I retrieve my camera, which fell out of it's case into Allison's backseat this afternoon. I've got some fun ones! I wont try to think about the fact that I saw some snow falling earlier this evening, I wont!

Hugs to all! I may go hide now...under some cozy blankets! It's been a long week!

Snow.

2011-02-06T19:29:00.003-05:00

Snow. Yup.

Lots of snow. I am almost not tall enough anymore to move the snow as it falls, in that the snow banks are starting to be taller than I am.

Today I returned home after less than 24 hours away to find my car looking like a marshmallow, and the snow banks higher than ever. I did attempt to move a bit of the upper snow and managed to lose my shovel to the backyard in the process. Hope the picture shows you what I mean.

I think it's time to continue to ignore that famous football game of the evening, grab a book and have a warm soak to ease my aching muscles.

More soon!

Happy New Year

2011-01-23T18:37:00.006-05:00

It's about time I wish you all in the blog land a happy new year, isn't it? Adrian enjoying winter in Canada- very Canadian pose, yes?
We're nearly done January, but that's beside the point! I am finding it a good year so far, and have nearly got to the point where I can write January without making a D turn into a J, and have had a couple of weeks of good 2011s.

I thought I'd say hello and post a few photos of some of the goings on of my December and January.
Bec, "Ginger" and Adrian with Grandma and Grandpa at the Kuhl Christmas.
Snow is piling up outside and we're getting a bit of a taste of real cold (-35C with the windchill is predicted for tomorrow, so I'll be bundling up!). My car doesn't like to get going with that sort of cold, but here's hoping he'll do alright the next couple of days. (This picture is pre big snow pile up but post big snow storm with high winds!)

I enjoyed some time with family and friends around Christmas. Allison and little A helping me celebrate at my place- thanks for all the fun gifts guys!
It was sad to be working Christmas, but at least I got to celebrate with friends here in the East as well as at home. Dad and Adrian on the ice Anna lacing up at the Kuhl ChristmasMom and Peter when we were opening presents together. Uncle Peter helping K and N colour! Uncle Adrian with N and KM plays with Mr potato head x2 (they make good mittens) Bec, Adrian and Evelyn!The girls at our brunch!

As always, I have a crazy cat. Thought she looked kinda cute lately though! (Happy as a cat in a bucket)

Enjoy! Will talk to you sooner than later, I hope!

Skitter, skitter. Scratch, scratch

2010-12-08T16:29:00.006-05:00

You might be wondering what little critter is pestering me. Well, I must admit, it's one I admitting willingly into my place. The kitten. Yup. She is a pest sometimes, but I do enjoy the welcomes I receive when I come home, the knowledge that there's someone else in the building with me. She even deals with little bugs for me too!

Some of her scratching is gonna get me in to trouble, though. She has ruined the corner of one of the carpets while trying to make my bedroom door open. I've given up trying to keep it closed at night. She tends to like to be near me- so when I'm in the office- she's either climbing the shelves, to the window sill or on the printer. She will occasionally lay just outside the room and watch me as I type. I'm glad that my furniture isn't all fancy and nice. Her claws like to play too much for that. She really loves to be up on top of things!!

What else is new? Well, I can't seem to push past that "we don't set the Christmas tree up until after Dad's birthday". This means I'll likely put the tree up this weekend. Any guesses how long it will take my cat to pull it or many of the decorations down? (I have a way to tie up the tree...and I think I will put it into play right away!)

I worked this past weekend, so I'm tired. I should go and pull some supper together before I head out for Advent service tonight.

A picture or two to send you on your way!! (Yup, some random ones as well as the cat ones!)

Happy Reformation day!

2010-10-31T21:04:00.014-04:00

Happy all hallow's eve! Happy All Saints day tomorrow!!

I celebrated Halloween this year, the first year I've had my own door from which I gave out treats. I had fun carving my pumpkins last night, and had fun dressing up for the fun of it today. I didn't party this year, but I got to go to 2 Halloween parties last year, so that makes up for it.
Check out my little friends and their costumes too! Little Master A, Little (not so little) R, Little G and Littler I. I dressed up for work on Friday and then for today too...check out my loot box!

Also- my cat has been playing interesting games. I thought I'd share photos of the cat and Halloween with you!More another time too, I'm sure!

Some more photos

2010-10-24T14:21:00.008-04:00

Just because! I gather the Australia photos weren't the only ones making you beg for more.

Here's to you Peter:Turkey and dressingPies, apple and pumpkin, which would you choose?
And then here's Peter's other turkey, not requiring carvingNow a couple more Australia photos
My first "roos" out in the wildernessWylie bay

Fall in all its glory...

2010-10-23T18:48:00.009-04:00

Fall is here. The mornings are cold, the coats are thicker, the leaves are not only colourful, but are mostly on the ground.

This year, fall is a little different for me. I am in a place with a yard, and a garden. I've started pretending to garden and have a rake to call my own! (I haven't used it yet, but the backyard is beckoning.) The tree responsible for the leaves is on someone else's property, but I won't make them come over and clean up the leaves.

This week I've cleared out a bunch of the front flower bed (only removing dead stuff) and planted a few mums and lots of bulbs. I have a few more that I want to plant, but today I didn't get out to the garden to put them in. Hopefully soon the rest will go in.

Now, some long overdue photos. A couple from Australia to whet your appetite for more, and a few fall colours from my neighbourhood and some thanksgiving weekend photos too.

After I'm done putting these up for you, I'll go put the leftovers from supper away, settle down on the couch (likely with a cat nearby) and do some knitting. I'm nearly done this project!!

Hello!

2010-08-18T10:12:00.002-04:00

Hello from away!

If you know me, then you know where I'm at, and if you're curios, let me know- I'll fill you in!!

I'm having a lovely time here- there is time to just sit and be. I'm not running too many places, unless Bec has something to which I need to run (generally with her). Today I got new shoes- nothing fancy, but they should stand up to some pretty serious running around (though I won't push it, I promise!)

It's hard to believe I've whiled away half of my vacation- how quickly the time flies. There are many things I'm looking forward to doing when I'm back, but there are also a tonne of things that are starting to niggle....

TTFN!

Please excuse my tardiness!

2010-07-30T10:23:00.002-04:00

Wow!

It's hard to believe I haven't posted since May. Things have been a little crazy over the past couple of months. I'll give you a condensed, reader 's digest type version.

Wrote exams- finished placements
Packed, packed and packed some more.
Moved to a new location, still out East
Had MANY visitors- loved every minute of it!
Toured some of NB, NS and PEI
Saw a lot of the local sights that I hadn't done before (zoo, waterpark, tourist traps etc).
Hit the road and drove to visit people in/near the following locations:
Quebec City, Ottawa, GTA, then C'burg.

Sorry if I missed you in all of my travels. Next stop-- rebecca and adrian's place!

May Days

2010-05-26T19:40:00.004-04:00

Hi all

It's been a while. I might add a few photos today- let's see if I can dig out my camera...

May has been a busy month. I've been on the road a lot. I've been busy with work and school. I've been making some big decisions, including where to work once this is all done, where to live, rent/buy...

Some of those decisions are made, others are yet to come. A couple of details: I will be living in this area for another year and a bit, also I'm not going to buy just yet, but will be moving a bit closer to work.

Ok. So that camera/those pictures.... (Not all from May- but close!)

First- some amazing support staff...Kim and Irene

Public Gardens, Peter on the phone, picture from the Halifax harbour

Hockey games galore...
My pedicure
Fun on the road with the Milette Family.
Could do more..need to ask parental permission first...

Hi

2010-04-27T14:52:00.002-04:00

*waves*

How are you? I'm alright. I won't chat long. I have much more important things to be doing. Sigh. Studying....

Many plans are forming as to things to do post exam- let me know where you need to fit in.

Blessed Good Friday

2010-04-02T19:44:00.002-04:00

Hello to you all. I'm celebrating the Triduum in Dartmouth with my brother Peter this year.

I wanted to share a song with you from our Good Friday service today. Many of them were good, but this one sticks with me.

Stricken, Smitten, and Afflicted

Stricken, smitten, and afflicted,
See Him dying on the tree!
'Tis the Christ, by man rejected;
Yes, my soul, 'tis He, 'tis He!
'Tis the long-expected Prophet,
David's Son, yet David's Lord;
Proofs I see sufficient of it:
'Tis the true and faithful Word.

Tell me, ye who hear Him groaning,
Was there ever grief like His?
Friends through fear His cause disowning,
Foes insulting His distress;
Many hands were raised to wound Him,
None would intervene to save;
But the deepest stroke that pierced Him
Was the stroke that justice gave.

Ye who think of sin but lightly
Nor suppose the evil great
Here may view its nature rightly,
Here its guilt may estimate.
Mark the sacrifice appointed,
See who bears the awful load;
'Tis the Word, the Lord's anointed,
Son of Man and Son of God.

Here we have a firm foundation,
Here the refuge of the lost:
Christ, the Rock of our salvation,
Is the name of which we boast;
Lamb of God, for sinners wounded,
Sacrifice to cancel guilt!
None shall ever be confounded
Who on Him their hope have built.
Thomas Kelly, 1769-1855

#239

2010-03-17T21:25:00.002-04:00

Not that it's an interesting number, but there you have it.

This is post #239. It will be a short one. Just wanted to say hi. It's St Patrick's day today. I wore green. I thought we might sing a song written by him at church this evening, but we didn't. ( I bind unto myself today, the strong name of the Trinity...)

I hope to get back again soon and visit with you some more. Maybe share some photos of my trips West of here...I have some cute photos of nieces and nephews!

Happy Valentines Day! Blessed Transfiguration Day

2010-02-14T18:50:00.003-05:00

Hi!

Just wanted to share some love with everyone. Happy Birthday Laura and Amy!

No, I don't have my very own Valentine- but I know I'm loved:

John 15:10-13 (ESV)
If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. ¹¹These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

¹² "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. ¹³ Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

A song about love, and fitting for the upcoming Lenten season.

My Song Is Love Unknown

Samuel Crossman, (as from LSB 430)

My song is love unknown,
My Savior’s love to me;
Love to the loveless shown,
That they might lovely be.
O who am I
That for my sake
My Lord should take
Frail flesh and die?

He came from His blest throne
Salvation to bestow;
But men made strange, and none
The longed-for Christ would know.
But, oh, my friend,
My friend indeed,
Who at my need
His life did spend!

Some-times they strew His way
And His sweet praises sing;
Resounding all the day
Hosannas to their King.
Then “Crucify!”
Is all their breath,
And for His death
They thirst and cry.

Why, what hath my Lord done?
What makes this rage and spite?
He made the lame to run,
He gave the blind their sight.
Sweet injuries!
Yet they at these
Themselves displease
And ’gainst Him rise.

They rise and needs will have
My dear Lord made away;
A murderer they save,
The Prince of Life they slay.
Yet cheerful He
To suffering goes
That He His foes
From thence might free.

In life no house, no home
My Lord on earth might have;
In death no friendly tomb
But what a stranger gave.
What may I say?
Heav’n was His home
But mine the tomb
Wherein He lay.

Here might I stay and sing,
No story so divine!
Never was love, dear King,
Never was grief like Thine.
This is my Friend,
In Whose sweet praise
I all my days could gladly spend!

You know you're Canadian when...

2010-02-04T20:33:00.002-05:00

Finish this phrase as you see fit!

You know you're Canadian when...

Today's answer for me, is: you have acclimatized so well to winter that you find -7 comfortable, warm even, thinking the weather is great that day.

(True story- today, I managed to end up out of doors as it was getting near dark, with my mittens inaccessible, and found that I was quite comfortable, indeed, had I not needed to get inside for other reasons, I would have likely gone for a stroll.)

An interesting definition

2010-01-22T10:46:00.002-05:00

What vacation means to me:
Fly, drive, visit, drive, visit, drive, visit, drive, meeting, drive....fly, drive....etc!

Doesn't that sound like fun? Wanna join me?

I'll take pictures. And hug kiddies. And hug other family members and friends.

Sweet singing in the Choir

2009-12-22T21:15:00.003-05:00

Greetings to you all, as we look forward to the celebration of the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ!

What a joyous time of year it is! I am very happy to be home, helping out in the preparations for Christmas, knowing that I'm not going to get everything done that I want to do, but enjoying it all the while.

Here's a plug for choirs! I have been blessed to be a part of many choirs, most of them in the church. I have enjoyed, over the many years, the opportunity to learn better the words to hymns which put to music God's word. I am thankful that I have this opportunity. Make a joyful noise!!

If I don't write to you again before Christmas- may God bless you this Christmas and always!

Once He Came in Blessing

Once He came in blessing,
All our ills redressing,
Came in likeness lowly,
Son of God most holy;
Bore the cross to save us,
Hope and freedom gave us. LSB 333

Shhh... I have a secret

2009-12-08T18:50:00.005-05:00

And that secret is, I can blog for reasons other than pictures or birthday wishes, but I'm not doing that today! Heehee!

Thought you'd get something good out of it, hmm? Sorry if I disappointed you. I hope the wishes and pictures help make up for it!

I'll attempt to post a little more frequently, but we'll have to see how well I follow through on my good intentions.

Lets see, last post wished Adrian a happy birthday. This message wishes Evelyn (Effie) a safe delivery- it's any time now!! I am praying that all goes well for her and her little one!

Looking to tomorrow and the next day, let's sing, shall we?

Happy birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday dear Evelyn and Dad!
Happy Birthday to you!

God's blessings to you both as well. (I have a feeling I'll be adding in a new verse soon, but we have to wait for it!)

Now, for some photos. I went for a walk with Pastor, Doris and their little ones. I managed to have my camera die and have no working batteries just a little way through our walk. We had fun though! Gotta love tromping trails in sneakers in November!

Then there's little A in his Christmas show, sorry it's not better quality, but it seems I need to decide on a photo editor for my new computer at some point, something better than Paint. And then him not paying attention to the other kids.

Next we have some Christmas decorations at my place (a little fancier than last year?) and some hand bell practice, Humphrey Bogart and his friend Fraser and then SNOW! I like snow. This first real snow was quite pretty too. I'm tempted to bring my camera to work tomorrow for pictures of the view. We'll see!

Miss you all!

Happy Birthday Little Brother!

2009-11-22T21:54:00.000-05:00

Yup. That about says it all!

Happy Birthday to my little brother. It's so nice to have a little brother. I've always wanted one. Thanks Bec, for marrying Adrian and giving me such a nice present! I pray that you two have a lovely day together!! Enjoy the barbie!

Hugs and love!

Happy Birthday Tracey!

2009-11-09T17:06:00.004-05:00

My oldest sister Tracey is celebrating her birthday today. I wish I were able to celebrate with her today, or this weekend when she was able to be home, but it's a bit far, so she'll have to be ok with a note or two and some singing!

I love you Tracey! I hope you have a wonderful day. God's blessings to you!

And now- a photo for the birthday girl:

I know what you're looking for

2009-10-26T17:19:00.019-04:00

You're expecting wedding photos, and lots of them. I may not fulfill your every wish in that department, but I do hope to be able to provide you with almost a lot.

I'm blogging after an extended absence. Again. It seems to happen more often now, doesn't it? Maybe life is busier (read: naomi drove to Ontario and back, moved/ran around NB then to NS and did a big test) lately, or maybe I don't have as much winding down time as I ought. Sigh. I'm looking forward to this next little while, because although work could be crazy, I know I'm not super on the run otherwise. Except maybe traveling to Calgary this weekend. That might count towards busy.A birthday "party" photo with me and Master A.

There are a couple new guys in my life, thanks to Terra. Marcus, a glass-licking cat in a photo/card who stares creepily at me every time I'm on the computer, and Flynn, the turtle who lives on my quillo on my bed and smiles at me from his perch. (Can turtles actually smile?)

I've promised you more photos from the summer fun too. I will get to those. At some point. There are some really nice ones, which I have yet to edit. That's pretty much what the hold up is. Oh, and also, I'm feeling lazy!

Some fun from the "bachelorette" which involved going to Stratford for an Oscar Wilde play: "The Importance of Being Ernest" and eating supper at Timmies.
So here we have Adrian running off with mom and dad's Australian flag
A few Bec and Adrian shots
A few getting ready for the rehearsal pics
A few rehearsal and dinner pics
A few getting ready for the wedding pics
A few wedding pics
A few reception pics

A few Thanksgiving Sunday pics
That's about all you'll get tonight. Sorry there aren't more. I mean, there are a lot here but I have more, lots more, but as I didn't resize them, they might tax out your computers in loading them if I put on more. You guys let me know!

Two Days!

2009-10-08T22:31:00.002-04:00

Or rather, less than that, until Rebecca and Adrian's wedding. Tomorrow our family will all be in the same place at the same time- first time in ~1 1/2 years. We're going to have fun setting things up tomorrow.

Lately I've been hanging out with Australians. They're decent folk, or rather Sheilas and Blokes.

I plan on loaning out my camera out so that I get a bunch of interesting photos from the wedding.

Other than that- hmm...I drove a LONG way two weekends ago. I get to drive a little less far next week, but in the reverse direction.

Looking forward to seeing family and friends. More posting later, but likely not this weekend. We're going to be busy!

Some pictures from August

2009-09-22T21:35:00.009-04:00

And a bit of a description to go with them!

I know. I spent so much time with the long weekend at the beginning of August, you thought I'd never get around to my puttering around in Miramichi or my trip to Ontario. Well. Here it is! At least the first part. I didn't get through all of the photos yet (Anna- some of you in the next set!).

Ok! Well. I visited the river here, The Miramichi river. It's quite pretty. There are some fun, rickety stairs you can take down to the shore not far from here.

Then just up the road is the French Fort Cove. It's quite pretty. I had an enjoyable time hiking around the cove. I hope to do it again before I leave here.

Then some not so great photos of where I'm staying while I'm here. It's not a bad set up! (I don't use the second bedroom/bath).

I traveled home in August. Had some fun with Effie's girls, stayed at Tracey's and visited Kevin in London, visited Kirk, Pol and girls in Chatham, then traveled to Windsor to have fun at Shar's place. No, I cannot post all of those photos here. Shar would hunt me down.

I got together with the girls and we picked up dresses. You guys will see those soon enough. Minimal photos of that section of the trip.

On the day the Tornados traveled near Toronto, Durham and home, I was on the road too. I was close to some of the storm, though I didn't see it first hand. I got some fun pictures of clouds, but they'll wait for another day. I went to Toronto to visit with Anusha and Anh. I miss you girls!!

I think that's all this one's gonna be about tonight. I have to pack and get ready for the seminars I have to go to in Digby for the last few days of the week.

Also- a belated shout out to all those with birthday's this month: Uncle Steve, Phil, Shar, little R, and everyone else I'm forgetting- oops.

Ok...so maybe I need the fat lady to sing or something!

2009-09-07T20:03:00.010-04:00

Long weekend (part 5)- It ain't over 'til the fat lady sings*.

Some more of Peter's photos from our trip to Cape Breton. I will have fewer words, more photos for this one. Then hopefully next post will bring us closer to where we are currently. (i.e. I will do an update of all the fun that has happened SINCE the first weekend of August!)

Louisbourg Fortress and surrounding area make up this first set of photos. There were a bunch of individuals acting like townspeople wandering the town.

Des Roches House

M. Des Roches
In town:

The goose in the corner bit the cook...doesn't look so feisty now!Just beyond this garden was a dig.This means war!
Naomi: a tourist lost in yesteryear.

A "portrait" of Alexander Graham Bell.
This one is for Rebecca & Adrian- let me know if you can't read what it says!
Look familiar?!
A bird crossed our path.
Dust kicked up as we drove in to see Mary Ann Falls.Mary Ann Falls
A sign for a special person.
The Lone Shieling again.
A fun umbrella for the woods!MacIntosh Brook waterfall.
A hummingbird joined us for our brunch.
Misty mountains.The road home...
*"It ain't over 'til the fat lady sings" description is courtesy of Wikipedia : The proverb refers to Richard Wagner opera suite Der Ring des Nibelungen and its last part, Götterdämmerung. The "fat lady" is Valkyrie Brünhilde, who is traditionally presented as a very buxom lady with horned helmet, spear and round shield. Her aria lasts almost ten minutes and marks the end of the opera.

Long weekend- Pictures courtesy of Peter!

2009-09-03T19:43:00.007-04:00

You'll notice I posted a few of my photos. Now you get to see some from Peter. He sent me a whole bunch. Once you've seen these ones, you'll not want to go back to the boring old Naomi-taken photos. Peter does a very good job, puts my little camera to shame.

I will give you pointers as to what's going on in some of the photos- the others, you'll have to decide for yourself! Wooden man- with a wooden axe. Not sure how well that will work for him! (Also- I'm in the picture). This is a 3D photo. Don't ask me how, ask Peter. The blacksmith, hard at work. (BANG!) Work in progress...a little warm. This one is for Alex- what font is it? Picture taken at the printing press. Fun and interesting bottles at the apothecary's. A great general store. The safe at the store. The peacock...check out that detail. And then- I'm tired of waiting on the internet- more of Peter's photos to come. These ones were the most important- as they go along with part one, when my camera was playing hide-and-go-seek with me, and I lost. (I do like to drag out that long weekend, don't I?)

Long weekend (finale)

2009-08-13T19:58:00.004-04:00

Hi!

Wow...it took some time to get through my photos...you know, editing them down to size. It's nice to have that review of the trip. It has reminded me of all the stuff I didn't get the chance to take photos of...ah well!

Where were we?

Ah yes. We drove the Cabot Trail over North Mountain, and stopped to take photos. Then we found a couple of short trails to hike, one took us to a Scottish Crofter's hut, the next to a couple of pretty waterfalls. It was nice to get out of the car, even if my tummy grumbled as it waited for food!

In Pleasant Bay we stopped for brunch. We were amused by hummingbirds feeding just outside the restaurant, by sitting in a booth by a feeder. There were some beautiful ruby throated ones, but my camera was in the car. Peter got a good few shots of them though! We brunched on lobster and crab and then got back on the road.

We stopped near French Mountain to take some photos. We had driven through a lot more fog on a lot of curvy roads, but there were moments of breathtaking scenery!

We stopped in Cheticamp for gas and hit the road- the plan being to get to Peter's place in time for supper.

We made good time, and decided to rent a movie on the way back to Peter's place. Over the rest of the long weekend we played games, walked in and around town (catching some of the low in the sky fireworks on Saturday evening even though we weren't expecting any!) and went to Church. It was a fun weekend. I think I would travel the Cabot trail again- though as Peter and I agreed there were a few things we'd do differently.
1. Go in the fall. There are a lot of trees there which would colour beautifully!
2. Bring breakfasty-type foods to have in case of quiet little towns who don't open til noon!
3. Try and find a less moisture-full weekend!
4. Spend more time on some more trails

The hills were fun, I enjoyed twisting and turning, and so, I think, did Atreyu.

This weekend finds me back in Ontario. I will likely post at some point while I'm there, but don't hold your breath!

Finally- pictures:
Peter in Lone Shieling
InfoMacIntosh Brook waterfall
More misty mountains- I think this one is part of French MountainPeter, near French Mountain

Long weekend (part 2)

2009-08-10T20:39:00.008-04:00

I know what you're thinking...the long weekend was way back at last weekend. Boy, is Naomi slow at getting to blogging. You'd be right if you thought that...but better late than never, right? (Warning-- pictures available at the end of the blog!)

Ah, yes, where did I leave off?

Louisbourg. Peter and I started off the morning packing everything back into the car, returning the key and heading out. We decided we'd try to find the fort (and got closer than we thought!) and explored a bit out past the entrance to the historic site. We found a fun tree by a graveyard and turned around to go back into town. We found a little cafe for breakfast, ate and then it was almost time for the fortress to open, so we went back. We arrived at the building only to find that we were going to be bused to the fortress. (No driving right up to it!) From there we started a day in the life in 1744. (Or rather, just a morning!) We were warned in town that the weather was unpredictable, and it was misty, so we brought our jackets...and forgot the sunscreen in the car. It was warm, sunny and beautiful, though there was fog off in the distance (and later that day!). We wandered the town, listened to stories told us by the townspeople, Peter took videos of the firing of the gun and I snapped a few photos of the town and fortress. On our way in we were challenged as to who we were, why we were visiting and if Peter's tripod was actually a weapon. I certainly didn't plan to use it as such, though I was carrying it, and they let us in.

We heard about rations and a soldier's life. We poked our noses into some of the houses to see how people would have lived. After the weapons demonstration we set back out for the gate and the car...next stop Baddeck. We stopped near the entrance to the Cabot Trail for lunch, eating seafood, like all good Maritime tourists should.

In Baddeck we visited a museum dedicated to Alexander Graham Bell. It was quite fascinating. He had a lot of great ideas. I also learned what a great interest he had in the deaf. He worked on some amazing things. Peter took photos, but I did not...sigh.

After we left the museum we set out for Cape Breton. We found a Celtic school and browsed a bit. Then started the windy roads! We made better time than I had thought we would, so we travelled over Smokey Mountain and entered Cape Breton Highlands National Park to try to find a place for the night. It being the Friday of a long weekend, we were almost out of luck!! We found a spot in Ingonish, settled in, and went for a hike to a Mary Ann Falls. It was a warm day- and a sticky warm night. I slept well in the room with a ceiling fan, but Peter chose a room with no air flow. He moved to the living room in the night, making rather strange noises and really scared me for a minute!!

The next morning we set out again-- without breakfast. We found it challenging to find a place that was open before 9am, and as we were on the road shortly after 8, we made it far from the inhabited places long before 9am. We drove right through Neils Harbour (very nice), up to White point and then to Cape North, and up to near Aspy Bay. No luck with breakfast, we snacked on licorise and held off for brunch.
More stories later-- now, pictures!
Misty morning.
Des Roches House
Peter with his 4 or 5 days ration of food!

The Dauphin Gate.

Engineer's residence- garden and kitchen.

Walking towards the King's Bastion Barracks

The Chapel.

Firing a rifle for us.

Kids playing in the street.

Peter caught!

Piper at Celtic school.

Can't remember why we stopped for this one.

On top of Mount Smokey....

A view from the Keltic Lodge- No room at the inn!

Peter on a wet bridge

Mary Ann Falls

I spy....

Low hanging clouds- we stopped at a lookout on our way up a mountain.

Long weekend (part 1)

2009-08-03T19:15:00.002-04:00

Hi!

Back again, in my little apartment for the next 12 weeks. I've semi-completed my "move" north. I'm in, but not unpacked, as it looks like I'll only be using this bedroom for a little while.

Last Wednesday I drove down to Dartmouth to stay at my brother Peter's place. I'm getting good at sleeping on his couch- and I think it was a cooler location to sleep, with a cross breeze, than his room. Sorry buddy! Then on Thursday morning we set out. We had decided to drive to Cape Breton and tour around. I don't know if you know this, but often when Peter and I plan on touring places together we get back weather for it. Thursday morning dawned overcast...looking like rain. (Oh, also, as I drove to Peter's place on the Wednesday, as I neared Nova Scotia I drove into a thick fog-mist...and then today as I left and entered New Brunswick I saw blue sky- that seemed fitting to go with our trip!) We decided we would take a "scenic" by the ocean route to a little museum town. Lots of fog got in the way of the view. We stopped at an info centre and took some photos of a turbulent river which we had just crossed. It looked like there were remains of a mill there...but alas, I couldn't find my camera. No pictures from me for our first day of the trip!

We made it to the town where they had the olden time museum. We ate at a Chinese/Canadian food restaurant (and yes, I did get a milkshake, just for you melissa!). Then we wandered to the museum, spent a good amount of time with the blacksmith, the printer at the printing press, the potter and a bit of time at the pharmacy, the general store, the smiths' place and then drove to the water powered sawmill. It was a very neat experience. Peter took some good photos and video...but I still hadn't found my camera. We didn't chase after the sheep that got loose, but Peter was able to pet one of them prior to that. He also got some pictures of peacocks...though how commonly they were kept in the 1800s I don't know!

After we left there we drove on to Cape Breton...with the views of the day consisting of fog, trees, and more fog. We stopped in Saint Peters for supper. It was hard to see for the fog by the time we drove through Sydney and made it to Louisbourg where we stayed for the night. At that point we were hoping for a bit better weather for the rest of the trip, but were prepaired to need jackets and umbrellas!

More soon...I have to pull up the photos that I took starting day two!!

It's raining again!

2009-07-22T19:03:00.004-04:00

If I were a raindrop, I'd be falling all over you!

Nope, not a line used on me...scarily enough, I just made that up!

It's raining again. We have had a lot of rain this summer. I know, you have too, probably. I think the plants in my bay window get jealous, but they aren't getting waterlogged like the plants out doors. That reminds me....anyone want to plant-sit for a while? I mean, some of my plants will be ok getting watered only once a week or two. Others wont like it so much. Especially getting as much sun as they do when it's actually sunny. (It has happened this summer, honest!) I think Heather said she'd take a couple of them. I have to check around with people.

Hmm...how would you like to see some pictures? I think it's high time I share some with you. We'll see what I can find hiding on this computer.
This one is for little Austin. It's his bulldozer.

Some flowers I spotted while out on a walk one day.

The little man himself!

This flower lasted and lasted!! So pretty!

My friend Sandie's last day with us! Laura and I went out for lunch with her to wish her well!

Good morning!

2009-07-15T10:00:00.002-04:00

HI Everyone!

It has been a little while, hasn't it? I seem to have a little more time to myself these days, but find that I'm using it to catch up on things like cleaning, reading for pleasure, shopping, and getting out to enjoy the sunshine! We're having a cooler July this year than last, with warmer days but cool nights. I find I sleep better that way, so I'm ok with it!

Updates:
I'll be "moving" north for about 12 weeks (1 1/2 hr north of here) starting the end of the month. I hope to be home on weekends, and should have internet access while I'm there, but we'll see how busy that makes me. Gotta love living in a motel?!

I have photos to share, but not here with me. (Mid morning breaks are nice to have!!)

Not too much else going on here...we'll have to chat again sometime soon!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2009-06-29T17:02:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday dear mom!!!!!
Happy Birthday to you!!

And God's blessings too!

I pray that you have a wonderful birthday, mom! I wish I was home to give you your birthday hug in person, but my arms can't quite reach!

Lots of love!!

Happy birthdays also going out to my friends Ashley and Sarah (who both celebrate on Wednesday!)

So long

2009-06-12T14:02:00.003-04:00

This post is a sad one. I'm saying goodbye to a few links today. Goodbye to Effie's world, goodbye to Jerrica's lime green land, goodbye to the teschke life and goodbye to The homefiles.

I know it is hard to keep up with blogging...notice, it's been a while since I blogged. But, I've decided that once a blog hasn't been updated for over a year, then it no longer gets to stay on the blog roll. (I am too tempted to wander over and look expectantly for new posts!) If any of these blog locations get up and running again I'd love to hear about it.

Another farewell... to the girls in the year ahead of me! Happy Graduation again. All the best in your new offices...with all the new changes. And well done on your video!! I'll share photos in the future!

It's a bleak day today. That made the sleeping in the day easier (worked last night) but otherwise, I'd prefer the sun.

I also said so long to a few plants of mine. I was silly and planted sunflowers in my window. (In a tiny pot...not recommended!) I think they will be happier at Allison's place. Also, my Christmas tree wasn't doing so hot indoors. I hope he finds the outdoors a better place.

These empty pots have me plotting...but I already have one new chandelier type plant to fill one of them!!

Why is it always so simple?

2009-05-30T09:58:00.002-04:00

HI!

Guess what? I'm typing this out on my new computer. (Need to set up a desk chair yet, as having a "real" computer (instead of a laptop) means that my stool has me sitting too high for the keyboard.) I will likely also have to get myself an adapter or a new printer, as my old printer (which has been my friend for 6-7 years) doesn't have a USB connection.

The question of the day is: why is it always so simple? I mean, I set up the computer, no problems there, I connected everything that needed connecting, but the internet didn't work. So I read through troubleshooting files, released my ip connection, renewed it...NOTHING. I turned off and on the modem. NOTHING.

This morning, I was ready to call in the big help. I told them what was going on. What I had tried. Guess what he said. "Try unplugging the modem for 10 seconds and replugging it in". It worked. Why??? Why would I even think to unplug and replug something that is running? Why didn't turning it off and back on again do anything? Why was the answer so simple?

Now, the fun thing is, I have a web cam. Not planning on using it now...I worked overnight and am not the prettiest sight in the world. However, I have found that it's a fun little toy, and will likely try to play and see family here, there, and everywhere via this new toy that I have up and running!

(Oh yeah, I'm getting used to my new keyboard...so far so good, but there are some issues with placement of some keys etc.)

Hope this finds you well. I'm going to go and assemble my new desk chair. It's blue.

Home again

2009-05-12T18:15:00.002-04:00

Hi!

I'm home. I had a great trip. Got to see the WHOLE family (and yes, I'll share pictures, have no fear.) Threw a shower for Rebecca (and so did God- that day it POURED). We had fun. Snuggled with all three of my nieces. Snuggled with my two God daughters. Met and enjoyed much fun with my brother-in-law to be.

I also threw snowballs, slid down a snow hill and bought part of a bridesmaids dress. (not at the same time). The snow was from a slow melting huge pile of snow/ice in the woods by the river.

Today's flight was fun. I have never giggled on a plane like that before. Comments were made like: "Welcome onboard for flight ### on route to Honolulu....oops, sorry, but if I were flying we would be going to Honolulu, not that you'd want me to fly this plane."... "no smoking...those found smoking on board will be asked/forced to leave immediately"... "those on the right side of the plane can look out and see Niagara falls" (I was on the right- and caught a photo). "those on the right side must have paid a lot for their tickets- you can see a 747 flying below us if you look out the right side now" (Then the left side got to see another 747 shortly thereafter). As a parting song, to which was noted that if we didn't applaud the door wouldn't open, we had this "You love us, we love you....insert airline name in the song... if you marry one of us you'll get free flights..." . Such fun! I hope my future flights are as much fun!

Now, off to the fun of unpacking!

Out west

2009-05-01T09:54:00.002-04:00

Well, not as far west as my last vacation, but that's ok. I'll get to see Rebecca this vacation too, God willing!

I'm playing at Alex and Kelly's place. Their little girl is such fun! And Kelly's baby-belly is a very nice size. Baby was dancing for us (visible across the room) last night!

I'm really enjoying my time here. Today we're driving back up to Winnipeg for a bit, mostly to drop off the rental car I got so I could arrive at Kelly and Alex's place before Alex got back from convention.

Spring is being slow to arrive here. It's been overcast, not so much fun for playing out of doors, but yesterday Kelly and little girl and I went out on a few expeditions in the car.

I've made it through 2 of the books in my to be read list-for fun. WOOHOO. Slowly but surely it should dwindle.

Talk to you again soon!
Hi! from little girl.

Busy

2009-04-21T20:29:00.002-04:00

Did I see that right? I have a follower, or at least this blog does. (That excites me!)

Simple things...

Life has been busy lately. I've been working more (am in a slightly busier part right now), and running around more...and getting wet in the rain more. (It's not snow...that's a good thing!)

I made it home safely from Peter's place. The peep wars are still the talk of the town...or not. Are they online yet? Hmm...I'll have to go and find out! Doesn't look like it, yet!

I get to go on vacation in just over a week. Whew...I'm excited and relieved. Almost all set too- though I haven't booked the second rental car yet. I first fly to visit Kelly and Alex and toddler k, (baby k2 has yet to make an appearance) , then I fly to Ontario- to visit A LOT of people, and meet my brother-in-law to be. I'm rather excited about that too. I hear he's a decent chap. ;)

I keep the stack of books to read for pleasure growing, though I hope to make a dent in it while on vacation!!

I think I'm now off to sleep- have to get up early tomorrow!!

Blessed Easter!

2009-04-12T20:27:00.002-04:00

Christ is Risen!
He is Risen Indeed! Alleluia!

Whew...

we had a lot of good eats today. There was a brunch after church and we went to members of Peter's church for fun and more food.

We had an Easter egg hunt, set up for us by the kids. Peter and I battled it out. I won. It will take me a LONG time to get through all of that candy.

We set up an Easter egg hunt for the kids...it took a while, but I think we did a good job. Then later there were Peep wars. They puff up in the microwave...quite amusing to watch.

Thank you all for your wonderful Easter wishes, and all the candy and food and fun! God's blessings to you all!

Multitasking

2009-04-11T18:37:00.003-04:00

Currently I am sitting at my brother's computer, chatting online with my sister Rebecca (waves) and enjoying Easter weekend.

People here in town speak English. It's a nice change!

We drove around town today. Peter bought stuff. Some of it was cool! Others were just functional.
We also played minigolf in the dark. I glowed. My pants glowed. My teeth glowed. It was a good game. Peter won, obviously.

Ham can be heavy if you're carrying it 40 blocks.

It rains when I visit Peter. There was hail today too.

Tomorrow is Easter. I will start this now...

Christ is risen!!!

Ah, April fools

2009-04-02T19:17:00.002-04:00

No jokes really from yesterday- though I heard of some fun ones, including a statement that town/city council had agreed to change ALL street names.

Yesterday started out like any first of April should- with me scrapping the frost (thick frost) off of my car. You know it's spring when you get to scrape of bird droppings as well as frost.

Work was ok- I was watching co-workers confuse each other, on purpose, but without using the April Fools claim! Then when driving to another location for my afternoon's work I had another car bump my back bumper- good thing it did it's job. No harm to either Atreyu or the other more fancy car. It was very slow speed, low impact bump, but shocking, nonetheless. I had been doing a minor detour because someone decided it was a good idea to park in front of the entrance to the parking garage. The gentleman wished me a happy April Fools and noted that we were blessed to not have any big damage. He was very right. I'm so very blessed!

At Lenten service last night the reading included ' "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"-which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" ' Mark 15:34b (NIV). It stuck me last night that God forsook him for ME, for YOU; that Jesus was willing to give himself up as the perfect sacrifice for my sin and yours, forsaken by His Father. What amazing love God has for us!

That was a much better focus for yesterday- April the first (we are foolish indeed if we think we can gain God's favour on our own!). I continue to look forward to the celebration of Christ's victory over sin, death and the devil at Easter.

It's snowing

2009-03-30T07:49:00.002-04:00

Good morning one and all.

So happy to be sharing a lovely snowy Monday morning with you. It wasn't snowing when I woke up, but with the first thing I heard on the radio being :"no school today", I knew something was up. Yes, they cancelled school on the predicted snow- which was to start at noon. It started earlier. I had freezing rain pelting me as I walked in from the car. (My cheeks were getting sore from that!), and as I got to the building the precipitation changed to something softer and whiter and fluffier.

I don't mind snow. I'm just ready to be done with it for now. It's spring, isn't it? The calendar says it is, the robin I saw on Friday says it is. The weekend weather (which was gorgeous! Sunny and ~10 C) says it is. BC says it is. (Well...they can be a bit ahead of us out here, I've heard!)

Pictures...yes, they are coming. They are ready, but I don't have them with me at the moment. I may even include some from the weekend if they turned out alright!

I hope you're enjoying the end of March. I'm really looking forward to April- even though it could be a soggy month, it usually has beautiful spring flowers too. Also Easter is coming. I'm looking forward to celebrating again the resurrection of our Lord.

Cheers! *Throws a snowball at you*

Is that spring in the air?

2009-03-14T13:38:00.003-04:00

HI!

I'm back in Moncton, have been for over a week now. I had hoped to post some pictures, so I was holding off posting, but here I am. Forced into it by a loving sister. (teehee).

It's gorgeous out today. It's not warm (only 2 - 3C) but the sky is clear and the sun is shining. It feels like spring! If I were little, today would be the sort of day where I would join my sisters skipping rope on the end of the driveway.

My little niece Katrina is getting good with her imagination. She tells stories now, and they are fun to listen to.

My little niece further West is a cutie too...I love the pictures that Kelly and Alex share of her. She's being adventurous too!

I saw some spring while out West in BC- flowers were in full bloom in some spots. It made coming back to the 1.5 + meter snowbanks difficult, but it had to be done.

Tonight I'm going bowling with some of the youth from church. I think I've inadvertently become a youth leader!

Anything else I can share with you in two lines or less? I may be seeing Peter tomorrow, we'll have to wait and see. He's been having fun with 3D videos...check them out.

Slippery trail . It's cool in high def too!

I'll be chatting with you more later. Got to go and bathe a fish...heehee

Good day

2009-03-01T11:32:00.001-05:00

Greetings from BC!

It's a more typical BC day here today- the feel of rain is in the air and the snow is gone.

I'm really enjoying my trip with Rebecca. We've been busy doing lots of things. More on that when I have my camera connected to computers again!

Lots of dress shopping, no purchases yet though. I enjoyed the trip to Seattle yesterday.

Bec has choir practrice pre church shortly, so I won't stay on long. I wish you all well.

Mountains are beautiful, don't you know?

Less than 53 hours

2009-02-23T20:57:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday, Naomi is going where she has never gone before...

British Columbia! Woohoo! I'm getting excited. I get to visit my sister and my friend Chantal. (Don't let me forget my camera, people...that would be a sad day, indeed!)

I'm happy to have some vacation. I'm happy to get to visit with Rebecca. I'm happy!! :)

Today was an interesting day. A snow day. But only sort of. I seem to be in that stage of life where snow isn't supposed to stop you from going to work. Things still need to get done, and at times there's no one but you to do them. (Not entirely the case today, but I did feel bad not being able to get in until almost noon.) At one point this morning even the ploughs had been pulled off the roads! Lots of fun snow. And clearing off my car and the snow around it made me really tempted to make a snowman. Sigh.

Any snowmen in your winter yet?
Any suggestions of things to bring with me to BC or Bec?

Just wanted to say hello

2009-02-09T17:58:00.003-05:00

Hi!

Not all that much going on here...I just felt the need to write and say hello. It's been a while.

I've booked a week of vacation. WOOHOO! I'm going to be visiting Rebecca...and hopefully Chantal (maybe I should let her know of this plan of mine).

I've done a few "home-improvement" things around my place. It's more that I'm setting things where I want them. I now have a magnetic circle on my wall- holding up a calendar and photos. I re-potted my Christmas tree (it's alive...hopefully will grow to hold more and bigger ornaments next year) and have a new shelf. It still needs work to get filled, as I don't quite know what I want it to hold yet.

I know a few people with calls at the moment- I'm keeping them in my prayers as they prayerfully consider them.

AND --- HAPPY BIRTHDAY KELLY!

I think that's all for now. For later this week...check this out: Remember this?

Happy New Year

2009-01-25T19:46:00.003-05:00

Today I was able to eat the head off a dragon. (It was the last piece left!)

Dragon Sushi. It was a dragon made in honour of the new year- so happy new year to all who celebrate today/tomorrow!

Also- my window plants appear to be doing well.

I'm very excited to be playing a role in my sister Rebecca's upcoming wedding. Congrats Adrian and Bec! I've started plotting...all good things, mind you...but this is such fun! I am also trying to plan some of my vacation for this year- hope to be spending a week with Bec in the near future and then spend some time in Ontario in the early spring/summer.
This is a picture from last weekend when Peter, Fiona, Nika and I attempted to find some sea-fog. It was chilly out. (-23 ish) We didn't find what we were looking for, so we set out for Moncton again. (This was taken near Fundy National Park)

Not too much exciting going on here. Too bad laundry doesn't do itself!

Ah, winter

2009-01-18T19:29:00.003-05:00

So. Winter is here. Canada and the US have been enjoying their fair share of chilly-ness. Today our temperature is rising above -18 C and we're getting more of that beautiful, fluffy white stuff- snow...to be followed by freezing rain, rain and more snow. What fun!

In ~1/2 an hour Bec will be in the air returning to Canada. I can't wait for a good long chat.

Peter and I had a fun weekend- and therefore, here's an ode to brothers:

Brothers
Help with many things:
Adding names to pre-named pets
Open up the spare 'oom
Keep you sane
Send you on wild goose chases
Teach you about Hockey
Find the bottom of the cookie bag/jar
Play in the snow
Choose a new lappy (not quite there yet)
Grocery shop
Try new and exciting foods/restaurants (Exploding baby food)
Play phone tag
Literary nudges (lending/sharing books)
Movie watching pals.

I miss my brothers! Thanks Peter for coming to visit this weekend!
To my sisters....you're up next!

Happy Epiphany and New Year!

2009-01-06T16:21:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone! It appears that I manged to not blog during the entire season of Christmas. I am sorry for that, though I did help effie with a blog mid Christmas. I will attempt to be a little more forthcoming with blogs this 2009. (No promises made or implied!)

I had a wonderful Christmas, getting to celebrate here with Church family and then at home with family. They even waited the opening of most presents until I got there! One fun addition was the web cam for mom and dad. It's fun to use....and I might end up getting one for me.

The time flew- I had fun with family at big and small celebrations, had a fun party with Bec, Mel, Ashley and Terra (and partially Deb) and then spent New Years' Eve with effie and family and my brother Peter. I will get photos up, but not today!

Since I've been back I've been mostly sleeping and working. I have a couple of days off, so I'm going to try to get my place in order. I took down the Christmas Wreath off of the door and moved the Wise men into the two nativity scenes I have.

Oh, yeah, I was going to do a list...things that I got for Christmas
10 pairs of socks
9 Christmas (tree) ornaments (which ended up around the apt on things)
8 Edible gifts
7 Pictures of kiddies
6 boxes filled with nativity set items
5 books
4 pairs of earrings
3 household items
2 movies
2 containers of tea
1 cowboy hat shaped air-freshener
and 1 guitar praise! (woohoo)

Thanks everyone for everything- your wishes, the wonderful presents (there were a few more too- fun ones as well), the time I got to spend with you (in person or on the phone) and your prayers.

I miss you! Drop me a line sometime!

Fun

2008-12-18T20:35:00.005-05:00

Here you go...the updated+ version.

Also- Christmas is coming. I should be home ~1 week from now, almost to the hour! I have a rather tiny Christmas tree- but I've received a lot of tree-type decorations this year...so I've been putting it "up on the furniture" (thanks 3ck!). (One new example!)

We have snow again. I don't think the weather does things in halves or partial measures around here. When we get snow it seems to be at least 10 cm at a time. It's fun. I like snow. They also seem to know how to clear roads around here- that makes me happy.

I'm looking forward to Christmas this year. I get to attend a party this weekend, have a close friend exchange next week, spend Christmas Eve with friends/family at church and elsewhere, and then after celebrating Christ's birth next Thursday, God willing I'll be flying home.

I pray that you have a wonderful advent while awaiting Christmas.

That's what it's all about!

2008-12-09T18:21:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday Evelyn!

Happy Birthday Dad (tomorrow!)

Wow- has my blog become just one big birthday wish posting place? I hope not.

I suppose I could tell you about what's going on here lately. It's really not all that exciting. What IS exciting is that I'm going home for Christmas. (At least, I'm getting some vacation time that starts with Christmas- I'll be home for a few of the 12 days worth!)

I think you can be safe to say my blog will have photos. No doubt about it! (no doot aboot it?)

Here for your viewing pleasure- advent wreath, randomly decorated tree in the park, my new flower growing in my window, a pretty waterfall and my wreath. Enjoy! (Evelyn- think of the flower as yours!)

Whew!

2008-11-22T21:56:00.002-05:00

That's 202! I've blogged a lot over the past couple years. This is my 202nd blog. Fun, hmm?

Happy Birthday Adrian.

There was a bunch of snow today. Is winter here to stay?

Finally-- SNOW!

2008-11-19T17:37:00.002-05:00

Yes, it has happened. Somehow, snow has not descended upon me or my new town until today. I was pleased, yes pleased, when the forecast started to include snow for Tuesday (yesterday). I was hopefully watching out the window off and on yesterday- but there was nothing. This morning when I woke up it was here! They were chatting about snow on the radio show that wakes me up in the morning. I had set it early enough to be able to get my car cleared off and head to work on time too, hopeful that the forecast WOULD come true.

I got ready, not really seeing much of the snow (it was still dark outside). Then the surprise when I saw my car- only a small, slushie-like collection at the edges of my windshields. There were big fluffy flakes dancing down from the sky, so I was happy. The snow was easily cleared from the car (much quicker than the frost has been off and on for the past month) and I was early to work.

The snow was not a pleasant snow, however. It came with a biting, raw wind. The lovely fluffy flakes became icy stinging projectiles as I made my way in from the parking lot, and they continued in that manner all day. At first the ground wasn't cold enough so it all melted, but by the end of the day things had cooled down substantially and there was a nice layer of snow (read ice/snow as it was the fluffy flakes that froze like ice onto things!) on everything. The clearing of the car for the trip home took much longer- sweeping snow off then scrapping the under layer of ice off, but I made it home, and was tempted to take a picture of the trees behind my place, all prettily covered in snow.

Ah, snow. I want it, then complain about it. At last it is here. (And will likely stay for a long time- the way the locals are talking!) Now the cold seems justifiable (-1 feels like -9). Now it feels like Advent can be just around the corner, that I should get out the cards and start sending them. Now the Christmas wreath I bought no longer seems silly and I feel that I could go sorting through my boxes looking for my other decorations!

How do you like your snow?

Sluggish

2008-11-11T16:51:00.003-05:00

In that I'm not posting much, and am often struggling to pull myself to do things I ought. You know, like get out of bed, do laundry, do "homework" and the like.

Fun thing though- I've had my first NON-family non-long standing friend visit my place. It was nice. We went for a stroll outside soon thereafter and enjoyed the nice crisp fall feeling.

I'm also sluggish when it comes to posting photos. I honestly have some new and fun ones, I just don't feel like posting them...that is, wait, I might have a couple that you haven't seen yet, which ARE edited.

Like the ones from this summer when Mom and Dad came to visit and Fiona came with us to visit the Hopewell rocks. (And I think that's all you get picture-wise!)

Happy Remembrance Day to you all- thanks to all the veterans and military and all they've done/do for us!

A few photos

2008-10-20T20:51:00.005-04:00

Hi!

It was a long weekend. I'm tired. But it went well. I have for you a few photos. If you object to them, I will remove at least one of them. (Please, email me to let me know that you object, if you do)

First hopefully not objectionable photo: A bluejay

Next some Ducks

Then, to prove I was near a famous spot

Then a new family photo of some friends of mine.

There's a kind of hush

2008-10-16T20:30:00.003-04:00

All over the world tonight...

or at least within my apartment there is. Just the hum of the computer mingling with the tippidy-tappedy of the keyboard as I write to all 3 of you who read my blog. (My tongue is firmly placed in my cheek)

I'm feeling sing-songy today. The other day I warned the others in the office that if they kept the radio station playing they'd likely have me singing out loud a lot (very good tunes were playing that morning)- they said that was ok...so who knows what I'll be singing around there over the next little while!

Last weekend was Thanksgiving weekend. What a lot we have to be thankful for! God's love, grace and forgiveness, family, friends, health, shelter, all my needs met, as well as many of my wants.

When I'm at work and puttering around when I have free time, I'm often reminded of all the blessings we have. Thank you God- for everything!!

I wanted to thank Peter for putting up with a little sister for Thanksgiving. It was fun- even if we didn't get to see all the wonderful colours- or rather be able to get photos of the beautiful sights along our trek.

Some birthday wishes going out to Anna (just in case I'm not online this weekend- it could be a crazy weekend!) I love you sweetie! And Happy Birthday to the First Lady of the land of the vines this weekend too!

I have a new friend. He/she doesn't have a name yet. Would you like to help me name it?? (Pictured here in Peter's place). Let me just say that it was a fun challenge to fit it into Atreyu!

Not, unable or just plain no

2008-10-05T19:10:00.002-04:00

This week has been full of a lot of the above. I was playing babysitter (not the mama) this week, in a slightly different way than usual- had the overnight shift with the kids sleeping.

This weekend I tried to do errands. And not your normal, every day errands, these were special, once every couple of years or only a couple times a year sort of things. But, I'm in a new town. I don't know where everything is. And I didn't find what I was looking for yesterday, and gave up. Today, I tried something different, but in the same vein. No success. All the stores were closed on Sundays. Not a bad thing, having stores closed on Sundays, in fact, I quite like it. I just wasn't expecting it here. I was completely unable to do those two rare errands. Then I just got home, hoping to do some laundry (as I was all weekend, but have been running here and there looking for places that I could not find, etc) and the machine was in use. Unable to do laundry. (Good thing I went shopping with Fiona and found a couple of new shirts!)

We went for a stroll today in a park. That was nice. I was able to get a couple nature shots. The trees are being difficult though. I haven't really had the opportunity to take a nice fall picture. The leaves are either already down, not changed yet or faded (Or I'm driving and unable to get a good shot!). I've been enjoying the sights that I see, though I can't share them with you.

I hope this finds you well. I hope to be successful in my errands this week, and if all turns out well you may get a picture or two out of it all!

This weekend in photos

2008-09-21T19:19:00.007-04:00

I've been on the road again.
(Not on the water- though there are many photos of water!) (above: Summerside)
Have seen a lot more of Eastern PEI.
(Must be fall!) (East Point)
PEI is a beautiful place!
(St Peters then 2 of Basin Head- singing sands)
Also- new school had its official groundbreaking today.

Photos of the Island

2008-09-14T20:23:00.019-04:00

I've been enjoying getting out and about as I can, (as per previous blogs!) and have usually had my camera with me. (Sound familiar to anyone?)

Here are some fun wildlife shots:

Here you get some pretty sunsets:

Here you get some lighthouses:

Here you get some ships:

Here you get some Anne places:
Hope you like them! Please, comment, question me, ask for more, whatever!

Oh I've been everywhere!

2008-09-09T17:42:00.002-04:00

I'm reminded of a song...And I know that it's probably not the original, but it's the only one I know!

I've been everywhere folks, that there is to go in Grey, folks... (finish me!!)

Just because I was touring around yesterday after getting off early from work. I hopped in my car and followed the blue herons. (Mostly because of the beautiful blue skies, that's what made me want to roam!)

I drove through Hamilton and near Toronto, Cavendish, New Glasgow, Kensington, Hunter River.... (Not necessarily in that order, mind you!)

I stopped in Cavendish to find that the tourist season is over, so I couldn't go into as many places as I wanted to. That's ok, because this way I kept going, touring around, finding some great little "adventures" and was able to walk the Cavendish Beach/Dunes. Very nice. Around sunset too- very, very pretty! Hopefully some of my photos look good on computer, as I haven't uploaded them from the camera yet!

We've had a bit of rain, but it didn't affect my touring. I should get going and check on my laundry. Hugs to all!

Smalltown Canada

2008-09-02T20:15:00.003-04:00

Over the past little while I’ve spent a lot of time in my car. The drives have often been wet (it’s been a wet summer), but they often find me traveling through some beautiful small towns.

This weekend I’ve driven through a bunch of small towns. Some of them take your breath away, others have cute little shops that I wished I had the time to stop and poke around a bit.

Some of the small towns have cute names, others, just odd names. I’ve been noting some of them, and they include: Crapaud, Travellers Rest, St Louis du Ha! Ha!, Winsloe (sounds like a good name for a pet!), Oldham, Londonderry and Pleasant Valley. What other fun names of places have you been in or seen lately?

I love the small town feel you get out here in the Maritimes, though it’s not absolutely everywhere. I was reminded of a quality of small towns that I like today- an honour system for fresh fruits/veggies edit- note by honour system I mean that they had a box for you to put the correct cash in when you picked up however many items you wanted. Today potatoes- a while back strawberries. These were found in different towns, different seasons, but both gave a very fresh and enjoyable change from the everyday. How else might potatoes and strawberries be related???

This weekend I was also able to (in small town fashion) bump into some classmates from Ottawa- while in Halifax. And not just once!! We bumped into them at the market and then later at a part of the harbourfront I'd not yet visited. Good to see them!

Routine

2008-08-28T19:54:00.002-04:00

Routine can be a good thing.

It can also be a bad thing. I'll explain:

Last night, I set up my night stand so I'd have my alarm clock handy as well as my bible and devotion book. Then, after devotions, I got out of bed, turned off the light and climbed into bed.

Routine woke me up around 7am. My alarm did not. It was a blank screen staring at me. Turning of the light (a lamp) had also turned the power off of the alarm clock. I would have been rather late getting up if I had relied on listening for the radio to come on!!

What routines do you find the most fun? (Other than dance/skating ones of course!! Heehee!)

Pixies

2008-08-24T18:15:00.002-04:00

Or something has been interfering with my laundry. Yesterday I managed to get my laundry done, and somehow the drier (fed money regularly at the 1 hr point) decided it wasn't so hungry and gave me 2hr for the price of one. Then later on, as the time drew near to laundry room lock down, I had the urge to go grab my laundry, though the drier was not yet at 1hr. I pushed the thought aside and ten minutes later set out. The laundry room was locked, drier still going, and my laundry held captive til 8am this morning when I rescued it.

Today after church I came home and decided to be a lazy oaf. I guess I haven't been entirely lazy as I have unpacked winter stuff and started packing for PEI, made myself a substantial dinner and unloaded/reloaded the dishwasher and have done some dishes otherwise. I also have been trying to empty out my fridge so I don't come home to a scary, scary sight in four weeks. (Mmmm using up icecream~ milkshake anyone?) Speaking of scary sights- while unpacking my winter stuff I came across a bag. I thought nothing of it, maybe it was my skates. I looked in and there was this matted-looking black furry creature. I almost screamed. What could it be? I don't own a fur coat or shawl...I was almost too scared to put my hand in the bag. I did, it was just my fake furry boots, squashed beyond recognition. I took them out of the bag before plunking them in the closet. I didn't want to go through that again!!

It's a lovely day, but I'm not outside. (I think that's why I feel the oaf-ness still applies).
What would you do if you had blue skies, 25-30 C temps and were scared of more mosquito bites??

I don't really want to pack again

2008-08-23T20:42:00.002-04:00

I know some of you know exactly what I mean.

This year I've packed many, many times. Packing to go places for 4 weeks or more at a time can be difficult. Seasons can change in that amount of time. I don't have enough clothes to last me that long, so I have to figure out how I can do laundry where ever I end up. (Point in fact- I don't know where I'm sleeping starting Tuesday night.)

I will be in PEI for 4 weeks. I'm looking forward to it, but am also unsure of a lot of things. I've been told over and over how lovely PEI is in September- so I'm looking forward to seeing it. Just don't know what sort of free time I'll have to enjoy getting out and about. We'll have to see.

I will be bringing my slowly retiring computer with me, in case there happens to be internet access where I stay. I hope so. 4 weeks is a long time to be internet-less.

My place is quickly looking like a home. Yup, just when I'm getting ready to leave. I've already lent out my plants, and will soon be loaning my fish (Mr Knightly) to a friend to watch and feed, so I don't have to try to transport him across an ocean. (Or just a bit of it).

I had my parents to visit last weekend. It was a nice visit. We went to Hopewell rocks, (pictures another time), the market, lots and lots of stores (in order to find chairs to match my dining room table--Mom and Dad- we did an amazing job!), and on Monday I golfed with Dad. Now, I must let you in on a secret. Having only golfed once before in my life, and that being a best ball game, it was interesting. The mosquitoes were much more successful than I was!

Mom and Dad are safely back in Ontario. At my cousin Joe's wedding, if all is going well. Happy wedding day Joe and Sarah! Rebecca made it out to BC. Hope all is well for you chicky! Peter is back in NS- hopefully I'll get to see him soon.

My little niece out in Manitoba is walking! Go little A, go! My little nieces in Hamilton are growing and changing. It's hard being far from home and visits. (Though my phone helps me visit people!!)

Anyone up for a chat??

A fun weekend

2008-08-04T21:01:00.006-04:00

And with all fun weekends, especially ones that include cutie-pies like my nieces, there are photos!!

Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Rebecca (belated), Happy Anniversary Alex and Kelly #4 (belated) Happy Anniversary Grandma and Grandpa #58 (belated) Happy Baptismal Birthday Nadine!!!

My flights to and from Hamilton were good. I really enjoyed spoiling my nieces this weekend. Swimming with Katrina was fun. Snuggling with Katrina and at other times with Nadine was GREAT!

Busy, busy

2008-07-30T08:28:00.002-04:00

I've been busy lately, hence the lack of blogging. Today, I have a bit of free time, in which I will search out a place to have some maintenance work done on Atreyu, I will do a bit of research towards my next presentation and hopefully relax for a couple of minutes together!

This past weekend was a write-off. I worked the whole weekend, and other than sneaking out for 1 1/2 hours to attend church and be accepted as a member here at Good Shepherd Lutheran, I was at work FAR too long.

I unpacked a smidge last night. My bookshelves now have a few items on them. My second bedroom is still looking rather empty, but with my parents driving out with a bunch of my stuff in the near future I'm sure it will fill up quickly.

I'm getting rather excited. I'm flying to Hamilton on Friday!! I get to meet my newest niece, I get to spoil my Goddaughter Katrina and see other members of my family!! I'm so glad it worked out!

I've not explored all that much here yet. I mean, I've eaten at many different locations (thanks Fiona!) and looked at many different places to live and searched for garage sales, but that doesn't feel like quite enough to have me oober comfortable with my new location. Should start to feel more settled soon though.

I have fun news... but I think I'll share with my family before I blog about it! (Just a change in location for a month peoples...don't get your hopes up too high!)

Many Birthday wishes

2008-07-13T19:46:00.004-04:00

Wow! It's a popular month for Birthdays!! July birthdays:

Happy belated birthdays going out to U of O classmates: Anusha and Jeannie-- hope you girls weren't made to work too hard on your birthdays!!
And family: William
Friends: Chris B

Friends and family today: My new pastor-- wow! He's so old!
Marlene (Kelly's mom)

Hope your day was great!!

Family in the near future: Cousin Linda- tomorrow! Hope you have a great day!!

Hugs to my niece, who just added her name to the list of July birthdays; Nadine Hanna. July 10. Can't wait to see/hold her! (Whoops on the name spelled wrong, all fixed now!!)

I'm sure I missed some, forgive me! (Also- let me in on them!!)

In other news: I have some furniture complete and usable. (Thanks Fiona for all the help!) I had E's stuck to me...craziness! I also have started tackling trying to figure out how to arrange my place. It's fun, but it's tiring too!

What's happening?

2008-07-08T10:43:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone!

Life is going well. I'm slowly getting settled. My furniture is still in boxes/half finished/strewn across my livingroom floor.

My friend Fiona is in town. We've been running around the city, finding out where things are, buying flowers for my bay window...you know, important stuff.

While visiting Peter in NS I found a couple of 4 leaf clovers. It's not the first time I've found one, but these looked nice too- 4 real size leaves.

I've made a lot of new friends. Everyone here is very friendly- and I'm not the only one from Ontario.

Speaking of friendly- I have had some interesting conversations with people in the grocery store. Just chatting because we could. I thought of my sister Bec. She's like that too! (Not to mention singing in malls...)

I'm looking into getting a new compy. Mine is behaving, but it really is just a matter of time, or an adjustment/knock on it and it'll be past the point of no return.

One thing I'm loving here so far: the weather. It's hot in the day, but it cools down nicely at night.

What fun summer plans do you have?

If...

2008-06-30T21:25:00.002-04:00

If my pocket wasn't empty before, it sure is now!

If I wasn't willing to use/buy power tools I wouldn't have curtains up!

If I didn't mind sitting/sleeping on the floor I shouldn't have moved sans furniture!

If I knew my way around Moncton better I'd have made fewer wrong turns today!

If I were home the next couple of days I'd get to see most of my siblings!

If I had some small coins I might be doing laundry right now.

If my computer behaved like it is now I wouldn't be considering a new one.

If I stop now you can comment!

(There's a song that goes: No I don't believe in IF anymore. If's an illusion, if's an illusion... No I wont believe in if anymore, if is for children, if is for children, building daydreams.)

It's true

2008-06-26T19:26:00.003-04:00

It's very true- I'm now living in the Maritimes.

I have an address, and soon will have a phone and internet and cable...if the dude shows up tomorrow.

Peter is a kind brother- except when he plays with magnets! He went on a cruise with me today and didn't complain- much. And he's going to feed me frozen yogurt.

I'm going back to Moncton tomorrow and Peter is going to join me and help me set up my place.

Jelly fish look cool!

Fun at home

2008-06-21T11:51:00.003-04:00

Fun at home: Packing, garage saling, packing, visiting with friends and family, packing...do you see a theme?

I'm sorry I haven't written in a while. I'm not online as much as I used to be, and will likely be in a bit of a void for the next couple of weeks, internet wise. (I haven't set up my new phone/internet yet).

Oh, about the New stuff. I'm moving! That's right. To Moncton, NB.

I'm leaving tomorrow (though I'm giving myself a couple of days to get there). I'm excited, but nervous at the same time.

I just got back (or rather, got back on Wednesday) from a 1083 km trip- visiting people here, there and everywhere. I admit, I didn't get to see everyone I wanted to (sorry to the land of vines, I had hoped to stop in!) but I did see a bunch of people. That was fun. (And slightly tiring!)

I shouldn't stay online much longer, there is still much to pack.

Oh, anyone up for pinochle? I've been on a slight winning streak- with many actual pinochles showing up in the games! (4/6 games last night, 4 pinochles!)

Happy trails to all of you setting out on adventures. I know I'm not the only one this summer!!

Packing

2008-06-03T15:33:00.003-04:00

Is such a slow task. (Especially when you're sorting things, trying to decide what goes now, what goes later, what I'll never need again etc!) Also, I've been nicely distracted going to weddings, visiting friends and figuring out wedding presents etc!

My room looks a lot different. It's still messy, but in a new direction- boxes are everywhere, papers are stacked so that I wont forget to deal with them before I go, garbage and recycling bags are scattered around. The good thing is that I haven't found anything disturbing hiding in my room. I generally don't have food in my room, so that helps.

The other big part of packing is trying to make sure you've got everything from the places they hide around the house. I think I'm winning that particular game!

Why have you guys been letting me buy stuff this last year??! I am just amassing more to pack (and yes, that includes shoes, books, cds and dresses!).

Boxes, boxes everywhere and not a box to drink! Wait- I don't think that's quite right. You figure it out!

Mary Poppins has just started on my random tunes...telling me that "In every job that must be done there is an element of fun. You find that fun and snap the job's a game." So I guess this means I should get back at it!

How does that work?

2008-05-20T21:24:00.005-04:00

I was traveling a lot this week. I just went home and came back, sorry for not seeing everyone and their brother, but I ran out of time.

Some interesting/strange things were seen while I drove to and from home. The first was a "yield to oncoming traffic" which was posted for both directions (around a water on the road piece of road). It was slightly exciting/interesting trying to decide who was to yield, but eventually we waded through the water and were off again. (We being myself and Atreyu.)

Next was the lemonade stand that I saw advertised. It's a bit early in the season, but I got excited anyway. The most exciting/interesting bit was it was advertised, on pink bristol board, as FREE lemonade. I'm not sure how that works. Does that mean the lemonade is free, but you have to pay for the brownie to go with it? The cup? The sugar? (I'm thinking in Lucy terms- Peanuts). I bet they don't make much on their venture.

I stopped at a rather large road-side icecream place for the last bit of fun of the journey. It was the milkshake I got today. "It's a little thick" she said as she handed it over to me. I don't think icecream in a cup with a straw in it is equal to a milkshake- but with tremendous willpower I was able to "drink" my milkshake while driving home. It meant I got to drink it for over an hour- and it was still nice and cold the whole way! (The blender didn't chop up the nuts either, so I had to open the lid and shake those out at the end- not while driving).

I also spotted a fox and her young cross the road in front of me. So cute!!

Speaking of cute- I was harassed into fiddling with some photos last week...here you go!

You'll never guess

2008-05-15T16:59:00.004-04:00

Or maybe you will...

What did I do yesterday?

Two guesses

I'm out to dinner with some colleagues. Spring has sprung, the trees are blooming!!

On the move

2008-05-13T10:24:00.002-04:00

Things are happening. I'm planning trips. I'm looking at maps. I'm pretending to pack. (I'm back in Ottawa, for the time being!) I'm saying goodbyes (those are hard!).

Next week I plan on being in NB/NS for a few days. I'm hoping to secure a place to live while I'm out there.

I'm looking forward to my visitors. I have had a few visitors over the 4 years I've been here, but not a lot. I do enjoy visitors!! (NOTE: please give me advance warning before visiting me out East- work schedules and all that!)

Oh, I'm just remembering. I changed my little photo for the blog- that's a photo from Australia. What do you think?

Fun and nonsense

2008-05-07T12:25:00.003-04:00

That's what we're doing lately. Nonsense. Baby talk, goofy songs with made up tunes/lyrics. Also, we've been dragging out the forgotten songs of our childhood. I must admit, some of them aren't from so long ago for me, but that's not because I'm that young, but because I've done my fair share of babysitting over the years.

I'm enjoying the time I'm spending with my brother, sister-in-law and their little girl. I'm also glad that Tracey has been able to spend time here with us too. We've been shopping and found some good stuff.

Other fun- we've taught the little girl a game...still working on teaching her to blow kisses though. I wonder if Katy does that yet??

Jane Austen- a-thon continues. (WWJAK?) It's fun! You should try it sometime!!

Back to Ontario tomorrow. I'm sad that the trip here has flown by.

Oh what fun

2008-05-03T21:46:00.002-04:00

Little Fuss-fuss is driving us crazy! She's being extra fussy with teeth coming in, and then the learning how to pull oneself up is a recipe for falling. Silly girl

Just wanted to say hello. Life is fun in Manitoba. We went shopping yesterday in Winnipeg. I got Peter a b-day present while there. Hope he likes it! (I did not, however, send him a birthday cake that he would have to both pick up and pay for himself!) HAPPY BIRTHDAY PETER!

Happy Anniversary tomorrow mom and dad!!

Happy Birthday fuss-fuss!

From a mostly flat province

2008-05-01T11:35:00.003-04:00

Which one? Did you make a guess?

Oh, alright. I'll fill you in. I'm in Manitoba!! I saw some of the hills here with my very own eyes!!

Some of the things I've been thinking about lately:

(Airport/airline musings)
If I don't watch the new guy tag my luggage fully, will it really travel with me to Winnipeg? (It did)
Whew! I'm glad my nail-clippers (stored in my purse) are not weapons' grade.
Um, why are we heading back towards the gate? We haven't gone anywhere yet.
Delayed, again!
Do they really put airplanes out to pasture?
Once in the air, I tried to fall asleep, but couldn't. I watched a movie instead. (Thought the wonderful music in it would lull me to sleep, but I was wrong!)

Alex and Kelly and little girl were awaiting me. Then we hopped into the car and drove to Brandon. (Not the most interesting drive in the world!) Church service there, lunch at the Parthenon, shopping with Kelly, back to Alex. Then off to Holland, saw a big windmill with fake tulips, an amazing art show, then drove through windmill fields, hills and dales back to A & K's.

Yesterday was a good day too. Many er, um, exciting moments with little girl. She's happier today already!

Happy Ascension day!

Feeling lonely

2008-04-26T20:29:00.003-04:00

I'm feeling lonely on my blog. I know, you all keep saying you still read it, but it sure doesn't look that way when the comments don't appear.

Today was a bit of a lonely day too. Not too bad, as I got to chat with family and friends, but the house was empty, other than me, for a good 6-7 hours. (Dog was out getting cleaned up, house members were off shopping and doing fun errands). I was sitting, reading/studying.

The good news is that I'm nearly there. Not done studying, but the fact that my final exam is MONDAY is both good and bad. I'm more than a little excited/anxious. It will be a long day.

Yesterday was nice, my last class went well, if not being exciting/interesting. I was able to get some studying done yesterday, and then enjoy dinner with a fun group. I was even able to speak some German, but no one but Bec heard me.

I should get back at the books/lectures. Hope to somehow know that you're with me on this blog-land journey! (Not so subtle nudge to COMMENT!)

Flying animals

2008-04-18T21:44:00.002-04:00

An interesting thought, yes? I suppose we've all seen one or two (the flying squirrel, a bat, a pegasus) but have you ever seen a pig fly?

Well... I ate at a restaurant where there were lots of flying pigs around. It was interesting decor. The food was tasty, the company wonderful. And this special dinner was a thank you to me for looking after a flying pooch. (She really does fly out of the window to see people, and her skittering around corners could be deemed flying in some peoples' books!)

It was a busy week. I'm not used to long days in class anymore. Only one more week!!

Haha!

2008-04-14T11:20:00.003-04:00

I may have fooled you, after all! I sure took a long time to post again. I guess I should have explained that I'm supposed to be spending my time studying, instead of writing things for you to read.

Your next question will be, well then, why are you writing now? Well... I'm at school. We have a longish break between classes. I am reading up on some subjects while I wait, but don't feel that I need to do that for every moment of my day.

The next plan is to get off my chair and take Chantal for a walk. We like to walk, exercising the legs that do nothing all day when we're in class.

I've been doing a little bit of photo-journaling. Maybe that's what it is. It could be just documentation, but I'll let you be the judge. I don't have my photos/camera with me, so you'll just have to wait a little bit. Playing with photos does seem like a fun study break, which I haven't yet been using.

What else is new? Not much really. I've planned a vacation after I'm done my exam. I'm heading to Manitoba. I'm excited.

That's all for now folks. I don't promise to share wild stories with you on a frequent basis, but I hope to blog a little more frequently than I have been of late!

April Fool's!

2008-04-01T21:00:00.003-04:00

Now I suppose you're expecting something funny. Well, if it was going to be funny, then I just spoiled it. Sorry.

Now, when I was little, April Fool's day seemed a big deal. I never seemed able to pull off jokes though. My 4 older siblings never fell for them, and I don't think my younger sister did either. Maybe I'm just not meant to be a jokester.

Some of the fun jokes I've heard about or that have been attempted on me:
Web pages backwards
Penny no longer legal tender as of Friday at 5pm
Every Flavour beans in place of j elly b elly beans.

Not many others are coming to mind. Mine were generally lame- this am I tried to say we were getting more snow...not a happy thought for all of us who got dumped on. I mean, the snow is melting, daily, but we still have a lot of it!

Any fun jokes you care to share? (Please, no playing any here!)

Silly me

2008-03-28T23:40:00.002-04:00

Today I was a little silly.

I had my very own easter egg hunt. Not the normal kind, nope, that might be predictable. So, to pack up my goodies from last weekend, I threw them in a hat (a beret) and stuffed that in my bag. The beret then took up residence next to my computer, and today I thought I'd eat an egg or two. I put my hand into the hat and came up with two eggs. I reached in, because I could see at least one more, and grabbed it. Then hand back in, just to check, and found one or two more. One last check- found another one. It was exciting. I didn't think I had that much chocolate left!! Mmmm...

Next fun/silly bit: I had peanut butter with supper. After supper I could still smell peanut butter, but licked my lips and thought I had gotten all that remained. (Notice a theme?) I later went to the bathroom to see that I had a gob of peanut butter on my chin. It's gone now.

Ah, what a day. Plans for the weekend?

The drive home

2008-03-24T22:24:00.003-04:00

Hello all!

I made it back safely to Ottawa. I'm glad to be back. It was a great drive, the roads were amazing, and I was able to see a few things which made my day.

#1- A rooftop which proclaims "Jesus Is Alive" (to which I responded Happy Easter to you too!!)
#2- An Easter Moose. (A large moose statue, which is ever present in one of the towns through which I drive, with a pair of large pink bunny ears on his head- and no, they didn't cover the antlers entirely!) I burst out laughing to that one!
#3- Friendly truck/bus drivers- blinking lights back and forth to each other in greeting as they drove along the Trans Canada.

Today was a good day. I'm tired though, and have a commute ahead of me. As such, I think I will sign off, and hopefully get around to playing with photos to share in the next day or too! (Including Easter photos!)

Joyous Easter!

2008-03-23T19:57:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone, from Clarksburg!

Christ is risen!

He is risen indeed!!

A brief update

2008-03-16T22:11:00.006-04:00

So, I'm lazy. I didn't make it through all my photos. (It really IS a daunting process!) This weekend I did do some studying, some doggie walking, some vegging and some book hunting. (More about that when my fun parcels arrive!)

I did make it through the flights TO Australia (the photos I took, at least) and thought you might enjoy a couple of them.

Sunrise at NZ airport, just after arrival:
Fun airplane spotted in NZ while awaiting next flight: (It says I tawt I taw a puddy tat!)
Coastline of Australia, nearing Adelaide:
Enjoy!

New news

2008-03-07T16:36:00.002-05:00

Well, I suppose it could be old to some of you. I'm moving East. For the beginning of July. Such fun! Moncton.

Also- today was the perfect day for playing out of doors, with snow. No, I didn't clobber people with snowballs (people were smart enough NOT to walk anywhere out of doors with me today!), but I did make this!

More later!

The thing to do!

2008-02-29T20:01:00.004-05:00

Post on an interesting day like Feb 29! Such excitement! (oops- I'm going to have to change the date on my sports watch!!)

Feb 29- I thought it would be an interesting day. Nothing much really happened though. I tried to find a replacement thinger-ma-bob for my car (to hold the license plate to the front bumper), but had no success. I tried to win at "roll up de rim", no success there either. I called a friend to try to go out- nada. I DID, however, see a couple of classmates, and go to an interesting talk over lunch. That was nice. February was a cold snowy, travel filled month. On to March, with hopefully some fun and excitement in store!

I'm going to go an make ice, and a fancy drink for me and watch a chick flick with some fellow chicks. (Not a bad plan, no being Sadie Hawkins*, not this year!)

I shall probably get some work done on photos this weekend, but don't hold your breath!

HAVE FUN LEAPING!
*thanks for the correction bec!

Changes

2008-02-27T21:45:00.002-05:00

Ch-ch-ch-changes!

It's that time of year. The house sold. I find out where I'm going to spend the next couple of years of my life soon. (My room got ALL cleaned up in prep for going on the market, and now it seems simple to keep clean!) Also- I'm graduating in the near future. (I don't need to worry about the house disappearing underneath me, I'll have moved out before the new owners get possession).

Snow keeps coming. I hope that Spring will soon be here, but that remains to be seen (tonight it's to be -22 C).

Choir was fun tonight. I enjoy singing. I also spent some time with little kiddies who are part of the congregation today/tonight. That was fun too.

Just thought I'd keep you in the loop.