July was a month to forget if you were a farmer or Gardener. The dry ,hot weather ruined most of the lawns and gardens and a drive through the country side reveals the same sad story. Corn which should be 8 feet high is 1 foot and beans are almost non existent. Happily this is not the story all through the province but has hit our local area very hard. Trees are stressed and after two months with a few mm of rain it could get worse. Forecasts are calling for some relief so we can only hope.
Traditionally August is dry and hot with some wet sessions towards the end of the month. It is already too late for much of the crop in our county. On the positive side it has been a wonderful summer for tourists who love the swimming and camping in our outdoors.Special events like festivals and parades were granted super sunny days and people enjoyed better than average conditions.
In our northern districts over 100 fires burned out of control and millions of acres of forests were destroyed. People, mainly aboriginal folks were flown out of their towns and villages with a major disruption to life for these families. July was a mixed up month and I am looking forward to a wonderful August.
During the last month of July we experienced many visitors and this added a pleasant aspect our days. This year we were fortunate to have friends from New Brunswick visit us and they loved the hot days as their weather was cool and rainy.I suppose weather across the country equals out and you just have to wait your turn to experience the type you prefer. I should not complain about any aspect of the natural order of nature so I will end by looking forward to the many good days ahead in August.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Visitors Week
This week was a time for having friends and family coming for a visit. Tomorrow we are having some of Theresa's family connections from down east. This was a trip planned for last year but it had to be postponed for a year. We are trying to see what we can do to make the shared time best for them. As they have not been this way before everything will be new and exciting. This family of four is intending to fill every moment so as to build a bank of memories. Like so many families they have a member who is going to attend university in the fall.
This changes the dynamic as families have a difficult time travelling and sharing time once their children get involved in higher education. Economic issues make it important to work during the time off from school and it makes this particular adventure together all the more meaningful.
We plan to take them to Niagara Falls and see all the touristy things and travel through the wine country and possibly purchase some good Ontario wine. A drive along the Welland Canal followed by the beautiful lakeshore drive from Hamilton to Oakville will fill the day. Of course having a dinner from the barbie and possibly an outside evening will fill the bill. We are so looking forward to this visit as it has been long in the planning and we wish to make it live up to the expectations.
The events that unfold will be important but the actual visit with family will be what this journey will be all about. The conversations, picture taking and story telling will be remembered long after the journey is completed. We have been the recipients of their hospitality on many occasions and we are very excited about joining them here on home ground to return the favour.
This changes the dynamic as families have a difficult time travelling and sharing time once their children get involved in higher education. Economic issues make it important to work during the time off from school and it makes this particular adventure together all the more meaningful.
We plan to take them to Niagara Falls and see all the touristy things and travel through the wine country and possibly purchase some good Ontario wine. A drive along the Welland Canal followed by the beautiful lakeshore drive from Hamilton to Oakville will fill the day. Of course having a dinner from the barbie and possibly an outside evening will fill the bill. We are so looking forward to this visit as it has been long in the planning and we wish to make it live up to the expectations.
The events that unfold will be important but the actual visit with family will be what this journey will be all about. The conversations, picture taking and story telling will be remembered long after the journey is completed. We have been the recipients of their hospitality on many occasions and we are very excited about joining them here on home ground to return the favour.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
A Day With a Grandson
Having visits with family and friends is nothing new for us. It is however special when you have a one on one with any of the grandchildren. A year or so ago I was fortunate to have a whole day with Troy, our youngest and it was a day to remember. Yesterday I was privileged to share the best part of a day with Henry, the second youngest of the boys.
He was dropped off by his father on the way to work and after a pizza for lunch we were on our own. There was much to discuss as Henry just returned from a gliding school where he earned his wings for gliding. This was a challenging effort and after two weeks and countless flights he became proficient enough to solo and have that wonderful experience of gliding through the air with the only sound being the pounding of your heart and the air passing along the skin of the glider.
Henry was so animated in his description of the summer at the Arthur Airport. It seemed every event that took place was a life changer and he recognized one part of his life would be connected in some way to flying. His log book was examined and he recorded every flight exactly so as to be a true record of his time in the air. I was taken with him on some of his flights, so vivid were his accounts of the adventure. I share his love of flying and experienced and will in the future live in part vicariously with his travels through the air.
Pool was not missed or left out and we played 7 games and this time I took time to teach him a few basic skills to make him more competitive the next time we get together as a family. He was a quick learner and could have had his share of wins except for some bad luck.
A spaghetti supper and a visit to two of his cousins completed the evening but we still had more time to talk and share long into the night as his Dad would not pick him up until 1:30 am. I recognized the onset of the need for sleep and suggested a blanket on the couch would bring some comfort and eventually sleep.
Before he slept he once again thanked us for his late birthday gift and expressed his feelings for the good day. All of our grandchildren are special to us but there is something extra special when you have one of them all to yourself.
He was dropped off by his father on the way to work and after a pizza for lunch we were on our own. There was much to discuss as Henry just returned from a gliding school where he earned his wings for gliding. This was a challenging effort and after two weeks and countless flights he became proficient enough to solo and have that wonderful experience of gliding through the air with the only sound being the pounding of your heart and the air passing along the skin of the glider.
Henry was so animated in his description of the summer at the Arthur Airport. It seemed every event that took place was a life changer and he recognized one part of his life would be connected in some way to flying. His log book was examined and he recorded every flight exactly so as to be a true record of his time in the air. I was taken with him on some of his flights, so vivid were his accounts of the adventure. I share his love of flying and experienced and will in the future live in part vicariously with his travels through the air.
Pool was not missed or left out and we played 7 games and this time I took time to teach him a few basic skills to make him more competitive the next time we get together as a family. He was a quick learner and could have had his share of wins except for some bad luck.
A spaghetti supper and a visit to two of his cousins completed the evening but we still had more time to talk and share long into the night as his Dad would not pick him up until 1:30 am. I recognized the onset of the need for sleep and suggested a blanket on the couch would bring some comfort and eventually sleep.
Before he slept he once again thanked us for his late birthday gift and expressed his feelings for the good day. All of our grandchildren are special to us but there is something extra special when you have one of them all to yourself.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Remembering Elwy Yost
For years I watched this iconic host of movies shown on public TV and admired his ability to make his comments fun and challenging. I happened to be appointed as a member of the advisory board for public TV representing Eastern Ontario when the opportunity came to host a meeting in Pembroke. It was in the middle of winter and the roads were covered with snow and ice when the meeting was to take place. Everyone managed to attend but a surprise was added when Elwy made an appearance.
The meetings were concluded and I invited Elwy and his assistant to come to my home for some refreshment and activity. I learned that he had never had an opportunity to take part in one of the Ottawa Valley's winter sports, snow machining. Elwy arrived at our home and was greeted by my wife and family and brought down stairs to our recreation room. Elwy was a very tall man and he presented a different picture in life rather than the man on TV.
He was interesting to talk to and admired the many objects in my collection of trivia. He entertained us for quite a while before I approached the subject of trying his hand at riding on a Ski Doo. He met the challenge but outfitting a man of his size could be a problem. I had a 2xx snow suit and boots that matched and he was a good sport and decided to give it a try. He and his assistant dressed with clothes we had on hand but the helmet was a problem. Elwy had a large head and we could not get a helmet to fit. I placed our largest one on his head and with a quick push managed to install the helmet over his head.
Outside it was 15 degrees below freezing and 10pm. We were used to this type of entertainment but he was surprised we would go out at night. I drove my Ski Doo and Elwy sat in a sno bus. This was a sled which was pulled behind the Ski Doo. Off we went for a 45 minute trip through narrow passages and along country roads at a fast clip. I stopped every so often and checked to see how he was doing. Only the look on his face told the story. He loved it but I returned before we froze any vital parts on Elwy. As we arrived home we had the problem of getting the helmet off his head. To say the least it was a comical sight but an uncomfortable one for Elwy but we managed.
Re entering our rec room all he could say was WOW what a ride. He and his assistant were great sports and before leaving we had pictures taken and thanks expressed as only Elwy could do. I managed to meet Elwy only once more in my life but he had the ability to meet you once and make you feel you knew him all your life. Elwy passed away this week and he will be missed but for me and the people there that night of reckless abandon , he will not be soon forgotten.
The meetings were concluded and I invited Elwy and his assistant to come to my home for some refreshment and activity. I learned that he had never had an opportunity to take part in one of the Ottawa Valley's winter sports, snow machining. Elwy arrived at our home and was greeted by my wife and family and brought down stairs to our recreation room. Elwy was a very tall man and he presented a different picture in life rather than the man on TV.
He was interesting to talk to and admired the many objects in my collection of trivia. He entertained us for quite a while before I approached the subject of trying his hand at riding on a Ski Doo. He met the challenge but outfitting a man of his size could be a problem. I had a 2xx snow suit and boots that matched and he was a good sport and decided to give it a try. He and his assistant dressed with clothes we had on hand but the helmet was a problem. Elwy had a large head and we could not get a helmet to fit. I placed our largest one on his head and with a quick push managed to install the helmet over his head.
Outside it was 15 degrees below freezing and 10pm. We were used to this type of entertainment but he was surprised we would go out at night. I drove my Ski Doo and Elwy sat in a sno bus. This was a sled which was pulled behind the Ski Doo. Off we went for a 45 minute trip through narrow passages and along country roads at a fast clip. I stopped every so often and checked to see how he was doing. Only the look on his face told the story. He loved it but I returned before we froze any vital parts on Elwy. As we arrived home we had the problem of getting the helmet off his head. To say the least it was a comical sight but an uncomfortable one for Elwy but we managed.
Re entering our rec room all he could say was WOW what a ride. He and his assistant were great sports and before leaving we had pictures taken and thanks expressed as only Elwy could do. I managed to meet Elwy only once more in my life but he had the ability to meet you once and make you feel you knew him all your life. Elwy passed away this week and he will be missed but for me and the people there that night of reckless abandon , he will not be soon forgotten.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
The Joy Of Owning A Model A Ford
Our family was fortunate to have a vehicle back 65 years ago. In our end of town there few autos and the horses out numbered the cars. Dad was a fixer upper and ended up purchasing or trading something to obtain a 1932 model A Ford coupe with a rumble seat. The engine was old and not running and this car would not begin to hold our family for trips but Dad had a plan.
He removed the engine, transmission and rear end and set up shop in our small garage. He began his adventure into auto mechanics. Dad took everything apart and realized that parts of the engine were worn out, the transmission needed a new clutch and fly wheel and the universal joint in the rear end had to be replaced. Not to be discouraged he went to wrecking yards and bought second hand parts, traded things with friends to get most of the needed mechanical objects and set to work. New rings and two pistons were needed and he bought these items at a dealer in Sydney.
Working late into the night and on weekends Dad put everything together. Dad had to borrow wrenches and pieces of equipment to complete the motor job but it was done. Now he turned to the body of the car. He removed the rumble seat and built a wooden box in its place to accommodate his family. It looked very good when he finished and he finally had a car that needed testing. This car had no starter so a crank was inserted into the crank nut at the front of the engine and this took the place of the starter. Dad was strong but after numerous crankings he had to give up as the car wouldn't start.
The gas and spark for the car was on the wheel and had to be set just right for the car to respond. A casual friend Wally came by and showed Dad how to get the car started . Together they succeeded. Tires were another issue as all tires on this car were loners or were not a matched set. The car has not left the yard up to now and Dad realized it would start easier with a push so we[ family] were invited to push our car around the potato patch to get it started. Our potato patch became quite smooth from all the driving round to make this tin Lizzie operational.
One day Dad decided to take the car for a spin around the block. We pushed to get it started and Dad drove out through the gate as proud as can be with all the neighbours watching and admiring Dad's ability to make something from nothing. I was not long after Dad left than we saw him coming down the lane without the car. He ran out of gas by the station so we had to go and push it home. Not a very auspicious beginning to what was to be the maiden trip.
Dad did get the car running quite well and after getting a licence for the car he decided that next Sunday we would take the family swimming at one of the beaches. Sunday came and a definite order of loading this car had to be in the mix as 8 children and our parents had to be accommodated along with our picnic lunch. We gave the old car a push and it started on a maiden trip that was to be replicated many times more in the future. Dad was so proud as we left our home and set out to drive in the countryside to Groves Point.
For we the children packed like sardines in the back it was a thrill and never a complaint was heard. As we arrived at our destination we were greeted by our friends who had a cottage there and for the next 5 hours we experienced the sheer joy of having the freedom to run, swim and co mingle out in the country. Finally the day had to come to an end but Dad gave us the best gift ever, the joy of being a family sharing our first day of freedom with our new, old car.
He removed the engine, transmission and rear end and set up shop in our small garage. He began his adventure into auto mechanics. Dad took everything apart and realized that parts of the engine were worn out, the transmission needed a new clutch and fly wheel and the universal joint in the rear end had to be replaced. Not to be discouraged he went to wrecking yards and bought second hand parts, traded things with friends to get most of the needed mechanical objects and set to work. New rings and two pistons were needed and he bought these items at a dealer in Sydney.
Working late into the night and on weekends Dad put everything together. Dad had to borrow wrenches and pieces of equipment to complete the motor job but it was done. Now he turned to the body of the car. He removed the rumble seat and built a wooden box in its place to accommodate his family. It looked very good when he finished and he finally had a car that needed testing. This car had no starter so a crank was inserted into the crank nut at the front of the engine and this took the place of the starter. Dad was strong but after numerous crankings he had to give up as the car wouldn't start.
The gas and spark for the car was on the wheel and had to be set just right for the car to respond. A casual friend Wally came by and showed Dad how to get the car started . Together they succeeded. Tires were another issue as all tires on this car were loners or were not a matched set. The car has not left the yard up to now and Dad realized it would start easier with a push so we[ family] were invited to push our car around the potato patch to get it started. Our potato patch became quite smooth from all the driving round to make this tin Lizzie operational.
One day Dad decided to take the car for a spin around the block. We pushed to get it started and Dad drove out through the gate as proud as can be with all the neighbours watching and admiring Dad's ability to make something from nothing. I was not long after Dad left than we saw him coming down the lane without the car. He ran out of gas by the station so we had to go and push it home. Not a very auspicious beginning to what was to be the maiden trip.
Dad did get the car running quite well and after getting a licence for the car he decided that next Sunday we would take the family swimming at one of the beaches. Sunday came and a definite order of loading this car had to be in the mix as 8 children and our parents had to be accommodated along with our picnic lunch. We gave the old car a push and it started on a maiden trip that was to be replicated many times more in the future. Dad was so proud as we left our home and set out to drive in the countryside to Groves Point.
For we the children packed like sardines in the back it was a thrill and never a complaint was heard. As we arrived at our destination we were greeted by our friends who had a cottage there and for the next 5 hours we experienced the sheer joy of having the freedom to run, swim and co mingle out in the country. Finally the day had to come to an end but Dad gave us the best gift ever, the joy of being a family sharing our first day of freedom with our new, old car.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Second Chance
Theresa and I attended our Dr's office yesterday and received the good news that the date for my procedure will be August 12. This gives me time to get all the lead up work completed. I have to repeat all the pre-op stuff and make sure everything is ready for the official pre-op on the 11th. This time I am sure everything will proceed in a proper manner and I will get my long awaited corrective surgery.
I have an advantage this time as I have been through the system and with the post-op procedures known I was able to practise the necessary skills to make my recovery a success. Sometimes this medical stuff takes time but in the long run it will pay off with an increased ability to function without pain.
My spirits were lifted with all the concern shown by family and friends and with a happy and successful ending this time we will be able to look back and say the past was only a bad dream.
My spirits were lifted with all the concern shown by family and friends and with a happy and successful ending this time we will be able to look back and say the past was only a bad dream.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Birthday Get Together
We all have our turn at having a B'day and yesterday it was Theresa's. Family and friends gathered to enjoy each others company and share in some home cooked food. Our kids always request wings done special and not messy. I decided to have some cold food so turkey cooked in the early morning and sliced at noon made for some cool eating. The day was a record in temperature so our festivities were confined to the indoors. humidex reached 50 and the temperature near the barbie was close to 115.
To have a little fun I added a short quiz about the family. Questions which showed the diversity of the family with 13 nationalities represented and birth places many miles apart. My oldest granddaughter won the prize as she had points in seven of the eight questions. It showed our family that we have widened the gene pool and is making our future stronger by inclusion.
Our birthday girl loved the crowd gathered in her honour and beamed with happiness during the whole day. It was difficult to get her out of the kitchen where everything was being taken care of as she had to be busy and attempted to micro-manage but she finally was convinced to sit and enjoy. During the day many of Theresa's friends phoned her and surprised her as she was not expecting to be remembered by co-workers from days long gone and friends from childhood. These are the elements that make for a happy and memorable day.
Having her soon to be 94 year old mother present was also a treat and her mother insisted on purchasing the large ice cream cake which she shared as the final treat of the day. Theresa 's car was not treating her very well so she received a new one for her B'day. She is sentimental about cars and was a little sad as we drove her older car to the dealer to be traded for her new one. As she is very careful of her wheels I am sure this one will last a long time.
Saying bye to the guests is a ceremony in itself and takes a long time as forgotten words are exchanged as people attempt to get to their cars and away. The happy day is not over as we sit for a while and view the pictures we captured and commented on everything so as not to hurry the lingering moments of Theresa's special day.
To have a little fun I added a short quiz about the family. Questions which showed the diversity of the family with 13 nationalities represented and birth places many miles apart. My oldest granddaughter won the prize as she had points in seven of the eight questions. It showed our family that we have widened the gene pool and is making our future stronger by inclusion.
Our birthday girl loved the crowd gathered in her honour and beamed with happiness during the whole day. It was difficult to get her out of the kitchen where everything was being taken care of as she had to be busy and attempted to micro-manage but she finally was convinced to sit and enjoy. During the day many of Theresa's friends phoned her and surprised her as she was not expecting to be remembered by co-workers from days long gone and friends from childhood. These are the elements that make for a happy and memorable day.
Having her soon to be 94 year old mother present was also a treat and her mother insisted on purchasing the large ice cream cake which she shared as the final treat of the day. Theresa 's car was not treating her very well so she received a new one for her B'day. She is sentimental about cars and was a little sad as we drove her older car to the dealer to be traded for her new one. As she is very careful of her wheels I am sure this one will last a long time.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
This And That
This am I slept in until 6.40 am and was surprised to find everything as it was yesterday morning. We are creatures of habit and we fit our lives into a rhythm which should be in sync with the universe. When everything seems to be going just perfect you can bet that you are in tune with nature.
Mother Nature is playing tricks to try to re-establish its rhythm and we are seeing gross differences in climate, volcanic actions, drought and floods. This does not come about by accident but is a direct result of the earth aging and getting comfortable in its skin. Only now we have people with sosophisticated machines and instruments to document the earth,s growing pains. We are some of the cause because of our abuse to the environment by cutting down too many trees, burning too much chemical junk and dumping our left over garbage into the waters of the world.
There are however more people today who are aware of the role we should play by being good Stewart's of our earth. I dare say that our youth will be better at taking care of the planet than the last few generations.We as children lived in an age where we threw trash out the car windows, wasted water and took our earth for granted. Small children today know that was wrong and are concerned about our environment. Knowledge is power and young people recognize the need for change and are involved in many projects to make our communities better.
Back some time ago when we were trying to find a project for our school that would impact the local environment, a project named Muskrat Cleanup was born. Under a science teacher named John a huge success story evolved. 800 students,over 50 teachers and staff, city workers and friends cleaned up a stretch of the river passing through the center of Pembroke. 175 tons of garbage was pulled from the water and hauled to the landfill site. It was impressive in its scope but more impressive when it impacted the minds of the people who took part. Only a few days ago I was talking to a former student and he said that was his main memory from his school days at PSPS.
I seem to get excited when I hear of projects being planned and executed by students which make our world a better and safer place in which to live. Perhaps or maybe our influence made a difference and our youth are more pro-active when it comes to being good Stewart's of our land. I truly believe this to be correct.
Mother Nature is playing tricks to try to re-establish its rhythm and we are seeing gross differences in climate, volcanic actions, drought and floods. This does not come about by accident but is a direct result of the earth aging and getting comfortable in its skin. Only now we have people with sosophisticated machines and instruments to document the earth,s growing pains. We are some of the cause because of our abuse to the environment by cutting down too many trees, burning too much chemical junk and dumping our left over garbage into the waters of the world.
There are however more people today who are aware of the role we should play by being good Stewart's of our earth. I dare say that our youth will be better at taking care of the planet than the last few generations.We as children lived in an age where we threw trash out the car windows, wasted water and took our earth for granted. Small children today know that was wrong and are concerned about our environment. Knowledge is power and young people recognize the need for change and are involved in many projects to make our communities better.
Back some time ago when we were trying to find a project for our school that would impact the local environment, a project named Muskrat Cleanup was born. Under a science teacher named John a huge success story evolved. 800 students,over 50 teachers and staff, city workers and friends cleaned up a stretch of the river passing through the center of Pembroke. 175 tons of garbage was pulled from the water and hauled to the landfill site. It was impressive in its scope but more impressive when it impacted the minds of the people who took part. Only a few days ago I was talking to a former student and he said that was his main memory from his school days at PSPS.
I seem to get excited when I hear of projects being planned and executed by students which make our world a better and safer place in which to live. Perhaps or maybe our influence made a difference and our youth are more pro-active when it comes to being good Stewart's of our land. I truly believe this to be correct.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Box Store Service
We were just finishing the planning for the installation of new cup boards in our condo and realized that to complete the job the old fan over the stove should be replaced with a microwave exhaust system. The vent piping was in place and why not do this right.
We looked for a suitable purchase in several stores without luck. Our last option came as a result of seeing an ad for Sears scratch and bump sale. This was Friday and our construction was only 24 hours away. We looked around this enormous store and tried to catch the eye of a salesperson. They all seemed busy so Theresa and I wandered through the aisles of bedding, furniture and a mirage of colour and delightful items to dress up any room. Finally we were approached by a well dressed man in a three piece suit and he explained that they were very busy and someone would be with us in a while. He pointed out the direction of the micros so we headed back there.
I have patience but this was beginning to try them so we carefully examined all the merchandise. We found exactly what we wanted and at the right price.We were guided over to the desk where a salesman was completing a transaction and he indicated that we were next.I leaned on the countertop and tapped my fingers as I sometimes do when I am trying to hurry up the action.
Finally a younger, happy sounding lady came and said she was there to help us and what did we have in mind. I led she and Theresa to the Microwave and said this is the one and we need it today. She smiled and said a week from tomorrow would be the earliest. We had to have one for tomorrow and Theresa asked if there might be a scratched or bumped one. She thought for a moment and ran off to a floor model a few feet away. It was more than we desired but as she examined it she said it was in mint condition.
Now we had our foot in the door. I could have scratched it or more but thought that there might be a way to get it off the display. She left and on returning informed us she could sell it to us today. She even gave us a discount of about $100. All this after we explained to her that we were Sears customers and we used every ploy to get this item. She registered the sale on the computer and phoned for help to get the item removed from the display. A boss looking man entered the scene and asked why she was selling the best selling micro from the display. She continued the completion of the transaction and Theresa proceded to pay and gather all the paper work and made sure we had all the nuts and bolts to complete the installation in our condo.
I watched and tried to help with the removal of our micro but store policy would not permit me to help. It also had to be shipped out the back door even though our van was parked just outside. We did manage to get our wish and microwave installed on Saturday. Looking back I think we took over an hour to complete a deal that should have taken ten minutes. Five or six people were involved and a handful of paper signed and sorted. All this with a thousand dollar computer sitting on the counter amid a load of paper and forms.Computers do create jobs and a waste basket full of paper. I only wish they re-cycle their garbage.
We looked for a suitable purchase in several stores without luck. Our last option came as a result of seeing an ad for Sears scratch and bump sale. This was Friday and our construction was only 24 hours away. We looked around this enormous store and tried to catch the eye of a salesperson. They all seemed busy so Theresa and I wandered through the aisles of bedding, furniture and a mirage of colour and delightful items to dress up any room. Finally we were approached by a well dressed man in a three piece suit and he explained that they were very busy and someone would be with us in a while. He pointed out the direction of the micros so we headed back there.
I have patience but this was beginning to try them so we carefully examined all the merchandise. We found exactly what we wanted and at the right price.We were guided over to the desk where a salesman was completing a transaction and he indicated that we were next.I leaned on the countertop and tapped my fingers as I sometimes do when I am trying to hurry up the action.
Finally a younger, happy sounding lady came and said she was there to help us and what did we have in mind. I led she and Theresa to the Microwave and said this is the one and we need it today. She smiled and said a week from tomorrow would be the earliest. We had to have one for tomorrow and Theresa asked if there might be a scratched or bumped one. She thought for a moment and ran off to a floor model a few feet away. It was more than we desired but as she examined it she said it was in mint condition.
Now we had our foot in the door. I could have scratched it or more but thought that there might be a way to get it off the display. She left and on returning informed us she could sell it to us today. She even gave us a discount of about $100. All this after we explained to her that we were Sears customers and we used every ploy to get this item. She registered the sale on the computer and phoned for help to get the item removed from the display. A boss looking man entered the scene and asked why she was selling the best selling micro from the display. She continued the completion of the transaction and Theresa proceded to pay and gather all the paper work and made sure we had all the nuts and bolts to complete the installation in our condo.
I watched and tried to help with the removal of our micro but store policy would not permit me to help. It also had to be shipped out the back door even though our van was parked just outside. We did manage to get our wish and microwave installed on Saturday. Looking back I think we took over an hour to complete a deal that should have taken ten minutes. Five or six people were involved and a handful of paper signed and sorted. All this with a thousand dollar computer sitting on the counter amid a load of paper and forms.Computers do create jobs and a waste basket full of paper. I only wish they re-cycle their garbage.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Sunday Mornings
All my life I have treated Sunday Morning in a special way. From my youngest days when Sunday meant Church, Sunday School and church again there was security in having a schedule you could count on.There was the hustle and bustle of attempting to sort out the clothes and shoes with all our family getting ready at the same time. We would have to pass the inspection of Mom as we left the door and there was the final minute adjustment with Mom wiping off that last morsel left from breakfast or something. We trooped up the lane together and entered the church prepared to fill our family pew.
As years went by Sunday meant more. It was the one day in such a bu
sy life and world that we looked forward to the opportunity to unwind and experience the peace and sanity of relaxing with the people who really count, family and friends.
I try to get out early on Sunday to water the withering plants, weed a little and talk to the neighbours who are doing pretty much the same as me.The fact that we are retired and every day could be a Sunday never enters my mindset as Sunday is special. We plan events around this day as it is one of the few days that you have a good chance to get everyone together in one place.
Phone calls to friends, sending cards to birthday people and doing nothing with a purpose makes for a day to recharge the soul,think about life, past and present and maybe even have a afternoon nap to fill in the little extra time you need to complete the best day of the week, SUNDAY.
As years went by Sunday meant more. It was the one day in such a bu
sy life and world that we looked forward to the opportunity to unwind and experience the peace and sanity of relaxing with the people who really count, family and friends.
I try to get out early on Sunday to water the withering plants, weed a little and talk to the neighbours who are doing pretty much the same as me.The fact that we are retired and every day could be a Sunday never enters my mindset as Sunday is special. We plan events around this day as it is one of the few days that you have a good chance to get everyone together in one place.
Phone calls to friends, sending cards to birthday people and doing nothing with a purpose makes for a day to recharge the soul,think about life, past and present and maybe even have a afternoon nap to fill in the little extra time you need to complete the best day of the week, SUNDAY.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
The Men Of The Co-op
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| Mr Hollett, Co-op Milkman circa 1940's |
Up at 5am, breakfast and a walk to the stable to prepare his rig for the day's delivery of milk to households all over Sydney Mines. The Co-op kept over a dozen draft horses, mainly Clydesdales, to haul or deliver milk, groceries and bread to families in our town.
Getting the horse ready for work was a task that required the driver to harness these giant horses and to hitch them up to the milk waggon and travel over to the milk plant to pick up their load for the day. Back then people place an empty milk bottle on their step with a dime and the driver replaced this glass , quart or pint bottle in it's place. Since the milk was pasteurized but not homogenized the cream always came to the top. There was a small cardboard cover over the top of the bottle and in winter when the cream froze the cork would pop and made the prized cream exposed to the crows who knew how to be good thieves.
From door to door every day was a heavy task and the horses became tuned into the route and knew where to stop and go. Any man could service the route as the horse had it down pat. These drivers knew nearly everyone in town and acted as the eyes and ears of the community. More than once these alert drivers called in fires and help as they saw fit during their workday.
The horse in the picture was named Queen I believe and worked for a long time in our end of town.The milk waggon pictured was to become our playhouse after it was retired with trucks taking over from the horses. My Dad took off the wheels and installed it near our house and it became home to my sisters dolls and toys.
Donald's father was not always a milkman as he grew up through the ranks and ended as the manager of the Cranberry Co-op. Many times I called in at this store as it was right next to my grandfathers home and we used to pass it on the way there. One memory of Donald's Father in that store was the old water cooled pop machine. Right at the front of the store and so cold. I used to pick an Iron Brew, a local drink like cola and drink it in the store. It was $.o5 to drink there and $.07 if you took the bottle. You received the $.o2 back with the return of the bottle.
The Cranberry store was unique as it carried more fishermen's supplies and dried cod and caplin were always there in abundance. The Co-op men were a special breed and Donald's Dad was a Co-op man through and through. We as kids always loved to go into his store because he treated us very well.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Old Friends
Every once in a while you receive news that company is coming and it makes you happy. Happy because this time it is a visit from a long time friend, like almost all your life. We started school in grade one together and made our journey through to Teachers College and even roomed together in that great year of adventure and discovery. We were small time boys moving away to become teachers and were about as green as they come. We had however an appitite for new things and it seemed that every day opened a new door.
After teachers College I moved far away to the real big city and Donald stayed behind and toiled through thirty some years in the classrooms of Nova Scotia.Our journey was much the same but as we rarely saw each other little was known or shared until we began to have class reunions. These special gatherings brought our class close again and as we grew ,we bonded into a very unique group. We were and are the only group who have had a yearly reunion which included wives and sometimes family.This year it will be our 57 Th and the faithful will converge on
Cape Breton to enjoy a few extra days together before the formal reunion in Truro.
Donald burst on the scene yesterday with his high energy and vast amount of information {gossip}. It was a full hour before we were able to take a breath but we managed to squeeze in some little bits of personal info to add to his wealth of knowledge of the group known as the class of 55.
Several hours went by without a thought of taking a break and the camera was busy documentating the condition of the back yard and the flowers mixed with jokes and laughter. Being comfortable in one's skin is important but being comfortable with friends is even better. Shared history, common values and love of friends will go a long way in making aging seem like a happy journey and that is what our group has achieved.
When we are together it seems like we breath together and our synergy is expressed through our committment to life and the adventure before us. Yes we do look back and recount the happiness we felt but more and more we talk and live in the future. We are all around 75 years old, we teachers that is, our wives are sometimes considerably younger,but we feel and act much younger.
When Donald comes to town he brings all those qualities I have been speaking about with him and he gladly shares them with all who is ready to receive. Thanks for the visit Duck and keep steadfast in your life values.
After teachers College I moved far away to the real big city and Donald stayed behind and toiled through thirty some years in the classrooms of Nova Scotia.Our journey was much the same but as we rarely saw each other little was known or shared until we began to have class reunions. These special gatherings brought our class close again and as we grew ,we bonded into a very unique group. We were and are the only group who have had a yearly reunion which included wives and sometimes family.This year it will be our 57 Th and the faithful will converge on
Cape Breton to enjoy a few extra days together before the formal reunion in Truro.
Donald burst on the scene yesterday with his high energy and vast amount of information {gossip}. It was a full hour before we were able to take a breath but we managed to squeeze in some little bits of personal info to add to his wealth of knowledge of the group known as the class of 55.
Several hours went by without a thought of taking a break and the camera was busy documentating the condition of the back yard and the flowers mixed with jokes and laughter. Being comfortable in one's skin is important but being comfortable with friends is even better. Shared history, common values and love of friends will go a long way in making aging seem like a happy journey and that is what our group has achieved.
When we are together it seems like we breath together and our synergy is expressed through our committment to life and the adventure before us. Yes we do look back and recount the happiness we felt but more and more we talk and live in the future. We are all around 75 years old, we teachers that is, our wives are sometimes considerably younger,but we feel and act much younger.
When Donald comes to town he brings all those qualities I have been speaking about with him and he gladly shares them with all who is ready to receive. Thanks for the visit Duck and keep steadfast in your life values.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Fly Away
Every year Theresa and I have a host of bird families which take up residence in one of our several bird homes. This year was no exception and we have seen three families move safely through the life cycle.Ordinary house sparrows love our houses and stay with us all summer. One house had the distinction of harbouring three families in one year.
I was able to place one of the bird homes on a long pipe so the squirrels could not climb up and do their damage.As the house was almost across from the bathroom window it was a good vantage point to observe these little creatures. The attentive mother who literally worked herself almost to death to the equally attentive father who helped as well became great examples of family. He seemed to do the nest cleaning routine and provide food as well.
Many people do not wish to have these common birds occupying their bird houses but their morning song makes it all worth while. I believe we have a song sparrow amoung the group and at 3.30 am the singing begins and it is sunset before the last note is sung.
We glean a great deal of entertainment and satisfaction in having our own birds in our own houses.In Florida we have the mocking bird and it rivals any bird for singing and interest. We are fortunate to have the joy of bird watching in both of our living areas even though they are not the brighest colored or most rare, common is good enough for me .
I was able to place one of the bird homes on a long pipe so the squirrels could not climb up and do their damage.As the house was almost across from the bathroom window it was a good vantage point to observe these little creatures. The attentive mother who literally worked herself almost to death to the equally attentive father who helped as well became great examples of family. He seemed to do the nest cleaning routine and provide food as well.
Many people do not wish to have these common birds occupying their bird houses but their morning song makes it all worth while. I believe we have a song sparrow amoung the group and at 3.30 am the singing begins and it is sunset before the last note is sung.
We glean a great deal of entertainment and satisfaction in having our own birds in our own houses.In Florida we have the mocking bird and it rivals any bird for singing and interest. We are fortunate to have the joy of bird watching in both of our living areas even though they are not the brighest colored or most rare, common is good enough for me .
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Mixed Sunday Thoughts
As I sat here this beautiful Sunday morning my mind turned to thoughts of a spiritual nature. With the last of the space shuttles going up to outter space, a wedding next door, my neighbour walking around with half of his heart in a bag and me thinking about my place in the mix of things, my mind wandered into the area of mans way of expressing his spirituality. For many, they choose a church with a building, a leader and a ritual with rules and regulations to keep everyone orderly and happy. It must be hard to keep people happy today in church with twitter, games and the news of the world at your fingertips.The message must be robust, interesting and short to keep everyone entertained.
When I go to church for funerals and weddings I go there in a respectful way. When I go there I attend because I have been invited and not to convert me to their religious slant. There is always someone who wants to shake your hand and greet you as a friend. Once I was given a hug but I survived. All the rhetoric pertaining to saints, gods and higher places like heaven sweeps over my head as I try to get in the right place. Oh...prayer time.
This is a time when most people, earthlings, have a conversation with an extraterrestrial god-person. For my part, my understanding is that for most religious people the guy in the sky has left town and they find sacredness in a horizontal term- more as a quality that permeates all creation and can be found specially in people when they are acting their best. Sacredness is no longer up there but in here. This feeling grows as people love each other and honour their committments and promises.I often us the term that people live just and generous lives when they act in a sacret manner.
When we are in church and asked to pray it is not to god as much as we are adding our love and caring along with all the other people and that this pool of energy will make a difference to the group. I specially feel this is true at a wedding when we are expressing our collective love for the future of the couple.People may and can draw upon this collective love and energy to feel support. I see this at funerals where the bereaved come away with a feeling of strength and peace.
Going to church a few times a year is good for me because it avails me the opportunity to practise my spiritulity and keep it healthy and safe.
When I go to church for funerals and weddings I go there in a respectful way. When I go there I attend because I have been invited and not to convert me to their religious slant. There is always someone who wants to shake your hand and greet you as a friend. Once I was given a hug but I survived. All the rhetoric pertaining to saints, gods and higher places like heaven sweeps over my head as I try to get in the right place. Oh...prayer time.
This is a time when most people, earthlings, have a conversation with an extraterrestrial god-person. For my part, my understanding is that for most religious people the guy in the sky has left town and they find sacredness in a horizontal term- more as a quality that permeates all creation and can be found specially in people when they are acting their best. Sacredness is no longer up there but in here. This feeling grows as people love each other and honour their committments and promises.I often us the term that people live just and generous lives when they act in a sacret manner.
When we are in church and asked to pray it is not to god as much as we are adding our love and caring along with all the other people and that this pool of energy will make a difference to the group. I specially feel this is true at a wedding when we are expressing our collective love for the future of the couple.People may and can draw upon this collective love and energy to feel support. I see this at funerals where the bereaved come away with a feeling of strength and peace.
Going to church a few times a year is good for me because it avails me the opportunity to practise my spiritulity and keep it healthy and safe.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Last Words On My Adventure
Most people go through life never having to experience a near death experience. I have had a few and all were caused by one type of allergic attack or another. My latest was the most clear of just what can occur when you have alergies which are unknown to you.
Near death experiences can be absolutely terryifying and could leave you with bad mind pictures for years. For me there was a clear message. Once I was able to breath and speak I had a quiet moment. I saw my life before me , not the past but the future. I could see that the message was clear, live life in a manner that will bring peace and harmony in your interaction with family and friends. We sometimes take so much for granted that we become lazy and unattached from the real issues of life.
I looked at Theresa and my children standing before me and I had this strong , urgent feeling that I could do better in the future. I think I will become a quieter, softer person and thankful that I have another chance to contribute to relationships in a meaningful way.
Everything became a little brighter, a little clearer and I was seeing life once more in a momentary focused analysis and I loved what I saw. This is the last word on my adventure and we always say all is well that ends well but for me all is well that begins well, for me this is a new beginning.
Near death experiences can be absolutely terryifying and could leave you with bad mind pictures for years. For me there was a clear message. Once I was able to breath and speak I had a quiet moment. I saw my life before me , not the past but the future. I could see that the message was clear, live life in a manner that will bring peace and harmony in your interaction with family and friends. We sometimes take so much for granted that we become lazy and unattached from the real issues of life.
I looked at Theresa and my children standing before me and I had this strong , urgent feeling that I could do better in the future. I think I will become a quieter, softer person and thankful that I have another chance to contribute to relationships in a meaningful way.
Everything became a little brighter, a little clearer and I was seeing life once more in a momentary focused analysis and I loved what I saw. This is the last word on my adventure and we always say all is well that ends well but for me all is well that begins well, for me this is a new beginning.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Going Home
It is 4.30 am and I am up.I hope to go home this morning. Everything is very quiet so I collect some towels and facecloths from the supply closet nearby. I will attempt a cloth bath in my tiny bathroom. Standing on the cold terrazo floor , naked facing a sink full of hot water seemed like a good idea.
I began to wash the hospital off my body being careful to keep the dressings dry. I realized I smelled like an active puppy or worse so I used all my sense of balance to try to reach those 200 places which could be easily be overlooked.I was interrupted by my curious nurse who wanted to check my vitals but I asked her to come back a little later.
There was one nurse for every two patients but in my case she only had to watch over me. I continued to complete the mission in half an hour but in my own shower it would have been 10 minutes.I was clean and I was making my last hospital signature a good one.
My Dr came in at 6.45 am to release me and he was pleased with my progress.He checked me over and signed the release form and assured me I would get priority status for my return. He also added a comment to the nurse saying she could change the dressing. She rolled her eyes and said yes Dr telling him non verbally that she knew her responsibility.
My nurse gave me extra dressings for 10 days and covers so I could shower as well as a staple remover. Theresa will have to remove the 22 staples in my back after 11 days from surgery.After breakfast Theresa will come and take me home.
I want to see the garden and tomatoes specially as I always like to have a red on before the 12th of july. Orangemans day. I am very happy to be alive and ready for living again.
I began to wash the hospital off my body being careful to keep the dressings dry. I realized I smelled like an active puppy or worse so I used all my sense of balance to try to reach those 200 places which could be easily be overlooked.I was interrupted by my curious nurse who wanted to check my vitals but I asked her to come back a little later.
There was one nurse for every two patients but in my case she only had to watch over me. I continued to complete the mission in half an hour but in my own shower it would have been 10 minutes.I was clean and I was making my last hospital signature a good one.
My Dr came in at 6.45 am to release me and he was pleased with my progress.He checked me over and signed the release form and assured me I would get priority status for my return. He also added a comment to the nurse saying she could change the dressing. She rolled her eyes and said yes Dr telling him non verbally that she knew her responsibility.
My nurse gave me extra dressings for 10 days and covers so I could shower as well as a staple remover. Theresa will have to remove the 22 staples in my back after 11 days from surgery.After breakfast Theresa will come and take me home.
I want to see the garden and tomatoes specially as I always like to have a red on before the 12th of july. Orangemans day. I am very happy to be alive and ready for living again.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Recovering
After 48 hours I was given jello, water and cold tea. I was recovered. I could smile at my visitors and I even combed my hair. My son came to show me films of his son at flying school. I became less emotional. Post traumatic stress took its toll on someone like me who cries at weddings and such.
That evening Theresa brought supper and Kraft dinner and sausages tasted great. I could not describe my hospital menu but who cared; I was well again.
Second Chance
The good thing about this event is that I have a second chance. I asked the Dr's to book me in for my spinal operation ASAP. The OR staff came to see me and tried to explain how this happened. For them it was the second time in their lengthy career. I will be given a battery of tests to check the problem and I shall proceed to complete the task I started. I have full confidence in the system, the nurses, the Dr's, and confident that this time I will get it done. Do I have fear? Yes, but not enough to stop me from becoming healthy once more.
Back Blogging - I'm OK
While I was in the Trillium Hospital I made notes of the events and I would like to share them with you as you might have a similar journey and it might help to make it easier.
High Hopes
Coming to Trillium on Thursday with Theresa at 9:30 am I had high hopes for my future. 10 years of pain from arthritis made me less than I wished to be. I saw the operation as a way of getting back to being healthy again.
Theresa and I entered the hospital like kids ready to receive the ultimate gift - better health.We did all the right things by going through the hoops four times over: name, address, age and once I was asked if I knew where I was and why I was there. Theresa stayed right with me until I was sent to the OR. I was very emotional when I left her but managed to compose myself while I was needled and lines put in place. The room was cold and a mixture of urgent busy people and the cool words from the anesthetist telling me I was going to sleep but I did not. Up until then I was OK and still hopeful.
No, I Am Not OK
The Dr. repeated his statement, Henry you are going to sleep. At that moment a searing hot needle sharp pain penetrated every segment of my body, from all angles. Never did I ever experience anything like it. I tried to yell but it was too late, I fell to the drugs.The next thing I knew I was fighting for my life. I opened my eyes and saw Theresa and the girls, and a Dr. and nurse.
A large tube was down my throat and I was struggling with the breathing tube. I remembered Roma telling me how to survive the tube. You have to get in sync with the machine. I closed my eyes and and tried. I did well but something worse was about to happen. I began to convulse and vomit. Theresa and the kids noticed I was struggling and even though I was tied down I managed to indicate I needed pen and paper.
The Dr. said I was OK. I wrote... dammit. I am not OK. Take out the tube. She waited and after seeing the rising liquid she pulled the tube. I breathed once and threw up copious amounts of liquid bile. I was OK.
I breathed freely and began an hourly routine of getting rid of quarts of liquid. I am sure I would have drowned in this liquid had she not listened to me. Because Theresa and my kids had to see this I tried to humour them by writing on my worksheet: How does my hair look?
I was placed in ICU and my family came in and looked after me with the help of a wonderful nurse Becky.
To be continued...
High Hopes
Coming to Trillium on Thursday with Theresa at 9:30 am I had high hopes for my future. 10 years of pain from arthritis made me less than I wished to be. I saw the operation as a way of getting back to being healthy again.
Theresa and I entered the hospital like kids ready to receive the ultimate gift - better health.We did all the right things by going through the hoops four times over: name, address, age and once I was asked if I knew where I was and why I was there. Theresa stayed right with me until I was sent to the OR. I was very emotional when I left her but managed to compose myself while I was needled and lines put in place. The room was cold and a mixture of urgent busy people and the cool words from the anesthetist telling me I was going to sleep but I did not. Up until then I was OK and still hopeful.
No, I Am Not OK
The Dr. repeated his statement, Henry you are going to sleep. At that moment a searing hot needle sharp pain penetrated every segment of my body, from all angles. Never did I ever experience anything like it. I tried to yell but it was too late, I fell to the drugs.The next thing I knew I was fighting for my life. I opened my eyes and saw Theresa and the girls, and a Dr. and nurse.
A large tube was down my throat and I was struggling with the breathing tube. I remembered Roma telling me how to survive the tube. You have to get in sync with the machine. I closed my eyes and and tried. I did well but something worse was about to happen. I began to convulse and vomit. Theresa and the kids noticed I was struggling and even though I was tied down I managed to indicate I needed pen and paper.
The Dr. said I was OK. I wrote... dammit. I am not OK. Take out the tube. She waited and after seeing the rising liquid she pulled the tube. I breathed once and threw up copious amounts of liquid bile. I was OK.
I breathed freely and began an hourly routine of getting rid of quarts of liquid. I am sure I would have drowned in this liquid had she not listened to me. Because Theresa and my kids had to see this I tried to humour them by writing on my worksheet: How does my hair look?
I was placed in ICU and my family came in and looked after me with the help of a wonderful nurse Becky.
To be continued...
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