Remember The Summer

August is over, today the kids head back to school and the Christmas Wish Book is sitting on my coffee table...all sure signs that summer is coming to an end.  It'a a dreary day so a good one for savoring some homemade cabbage soup and looking back over an amazing summer season.

 The first part of August brought my brother Terry, his girlfriend Fran and their son Martin to visit.  What was supposed to be only a couple days of visiting turned out to be the better part of a week filled with excursions to Deer Island, New River Beach, St. Andrews along with many picnics, barbecues and loads of laughs.

The second week was our girls vacation.  Kristie, Brooke, Britni, Melody and myself headed to The Gentle Island, (PEI) for three fun filled days.  Brooke and I went deep sea fishing catching a ton of Mackerel and a few Cod.  Not being the best fishermen, we were more taken with the sights of seagulls chasing the boat, Gannets dive bombing the water beside the boat to get scraps being thrown overboard and a breathtaking sunset.

The next day Kristie and I took Brit and Melody on a trail ride through the woods and along a beach, very peaceful and picturesque. One of Brit's favorite tv shows is "You Gotta Eat Here" which featured a Charlottetown restaurant called Famous Peppers that Britni wanted to visit.  We had a delicious lunch of Pizza and for added entertainment we were witnesses to a thief running into the restaurant and stealing the tip jar.  Luckily the police were nearby and with the help of the restaurant chef and a few other bystanders the criminal was caught (without the tip jar) and taken into custody.

Once returning home Kristie made the decision to stay here in New Brunswick and so the fun has continued on throughout the remainder of the month.  More day trips, long walks, ferry rides and just good times visiting and laughing here at the house.  It's great having both the girls here, my cup of happiness overflows!

So there it is, August 2014.  Now onward into September and more NB antics.

Love and laughter to all.

Special Days

Wow this summer is flying by! What a great summer it's been so far though with perfect weather and great times spent with friends and family.
I got my trip to Montreal over with. That was an experience I won't be needing to repeat anytime soon. The company was fun and the drive there and back was great but Montreal itself was a mess of construction. Thanks to Debra Vincze for telling me about the WAZE app for a GPS so I was able to find my way in and out of there!
I also snuck in a day trip to visit my friend Pat in PEI while she was on vacation there. We didn't stay long as it was so hot there. It was good to return to the cooler temps  of the Fundy coast!
I spent a day out biking the trails with friends and need to do that again soon. Such a great time!!

 Was so glad to have this bandanna...it was a dusty ride!!

Crazy summer hair but Frankie loves me anyway :) 

Next week we head out to Ontario for a week. Can't wait to hug my grandbabies, see my kids, parents, family and friends.  We will be bringing the lawn chairs for evening parking lot parties, always a good time😎! My plan is also to bring back lots of tomatoes, corn and peaches to put up for the winter.
September will bring my sister and brother in law to the area so I also have that to look forward to.
Not much else has been happening. Still loving the good life and trying to stay out of trouble. Some days it's easier than others  hahaha!
See you next month💖

June has been such an exciting month!!  Our trip to Ontario was terrific, a whole week at the cottage in Normandale visiting with family and friends.  An awesome barbeque at mom and dad's and almost the whole family, 35 people to visit, reminisce and laugh with!  Then to end the week perfectly, Brad and Brittany's wedding. Paul and I had a great time dancing and laughing (thanks Kristie...heehee) and a good time was had by all.

During the mother - son dance Brad informed me that he and Britt were coming to New Brunswick for their honeymoon!!  PERFECT!!

So, after returning from Ontario I was blessed with the opportunity to spend even more time with all three (now 4) of my kids, having them in my house all together for the first time in more than 6 years.  Like everyone else that visits me here in NB, Brad and Britt fell in love with the area.  Brad has a ball tournament in Fredericton in September so we are all looking forward to being together again in a few months.
Kristie moved down here with us after the wedding as well.  The past few weeks have been so nice having her here with Brooke and I, just like old times.  I couldn't be more proud of her and the woman she has become.

Vacation over and back to the reality of life...spending long days on the beach, enjoying ferry rides and picnics on Deer Island oh woe is me...LOL!!!  Of course there are still the day to day household chores to do but a small price to pay.  So on we go into July and I'm sure there will be many more fun adventures to come. 

What Are You Waiting For?

I think my 50's have turned out to be the best years of my life so far.  I'm not saying that the best things have happened to me in the last couple years but just that I know more about my own inner peace and acceptance, feeling comfortable being me! 


I have realized more lately than ever before how often I have put things off until, well you know the list...I have more money, when I lose weight, the mortgage is paid off, the kids are grown, and worst of all, , when life isn't so busy!  Looking at some seniors I would say life isn't so busy when you are getting up in age and your body doesn't work the way it used to and you spend most of your time sitting in a chair wishing you could go out and do the things you used to.


In the past month I have lost a good friend to cancer and heard of another getting the news she has a brain tumour and two weeks left to live.  Cancer, along with a plethora of other illnesses seems to be swallowing us up one by one.  All of a sudden it seems life has become more a game of Russian Roulette.  Not that it hasn't always been I suppose, I mean we don't know what tomorrow will bring but recently it just seems that a wake up call is being delivered and it's time to take notice.


What would I do if I was given the news that I had only a year left (heaven forbid)...would I try to pick up extra work to pay off the mortgage faster, dust the cobwebs from every corner of my house, start another crazy diet?  Would I spend my last days regretting so many things left undone because I was waiting?  Waiting for what??  I like to think I would spend that time with the ones that love me, just being with them and knowing words are not necessary because I have told them and showed them everyday that they are loved.  I would like the people I have differed with to know that all has been forgiven and that even the rough times taught me to be a better person.  The last day of my life I hope I can spend it looking at a fully crossed off bucket list and at peace, being thankful for every minute of life I have had and for every person and experience that has been a part of it.


I know it is nearly impossible to live a life with no regrets when your time comes but I think living a life without trying to be positive, without helping others whenever possible, without forgiveness in your heart would be a shame.  So before any bad news comes my way I am going to stop waiting, do the things I have put off, say the things that need to be said and if time allows maybe I'll get after those cobwebs.


Now I ask you...What are you waiting for?


Love and hugs to all

Good bye Dear Friend

Tracey (Rose) Sellars
June 11, 1974 - April 18, 2014

I have such a heavy heart as I write this post.  I learned this weekend that my dear friend Tracey (Rose) Sellars passed away after a brief fight with cancer.  It was such a shock to see the obituary with her young and vibrant picture.  How could someone so happy, young, loving and caring be gone from this earth?  It just doesn't seem real.


I met Tracey when working in a group home where we shared many laughs and where I learned she was afraid of mice.  Over the years I got to know her husband Fred and soon after became smitten with her first born, Owen.  What a handsome little baby he was, I'm not often fond of babies but Owen was different.  He looked like a little old man, wise beyond his years, an old soul in a tiny body.  A few years later Emma came along looking so much like her mommy.  Tracey's life was full of love and laughter and contentment with her family, they were her world. 


I moved away a few years after Emma's birth and as life happens Tracey and I lost touch but there were and still are many moments when she would slip into my thoughts and bring a smile to my face as I remember Christmas baking together and wondering how the peanut butter ended up on the ceiling!!


You will be missed my dear friend Tracey.  I am blessed and happy to have known you and even though we were miles apart you and your family have been and will always be in my heart.
Until we meet again.

Marching Forward

“With vision there is no room to be frightened., No reason for intimidation. It's time to march forward! Let's be confident and positive!”

~~Charles R. Swindoll ~~ What an extraordinary month March has turned out to be!  Our new friend George remains in my care for the time being but that is soon to change.  As my home is deemed an Alternate Family Living Arrangement (AFLA), policies say I am allowed no more than two people to live here (not including family).  Since George was placed here under emergency circumstances it was inevitable that his stay would be short, only until a permanent placement could be found.  Unfortunately there are no openings in the St. George area where George's family live and it was being recommended that he take a spot in a St. Stephen home.  Neither George, nor his family wanted to see this happen and they stood firm in their decision that he be placed here in town.  I received a call from Social Development asking if Brooke (my daughter) would be interested in getting her own place and having George live with her, starting up her own AFLA.  This is an important step for Brooke not to mention a huge responsibility so much thought and consideration must be taken before accepting or declining.  Since Brooke has been living here and assisting me for over a year the concept of AFLA is not new to her.  After great deliberation and thoughts of the future she has decided to go on this great new adventure, I am so excited for her!!  We have found a nice house to invest in and hope to have everything in place for the end of April if not before. Now, having said all of this I refer you back to the quote at the beginning of my post.  Since moving here I have worked in 3 different areas of caring for people with some form of disability.  One in particular I witnessed a type of abuse that can be worse than physical abuse because it is the invisible abuse.  Demeaning people, squelching their dreams until they no longer have any, ignoring their rights and forcing them to live in oppressed circumstances.  Being only one person it is difficult to change the lives of everyone but I have realized the fulfilment that comes with changing even the lives of few.  Having a vision has allowed me to let my life spread out before me in a way that working day to day and pay check to pay check never can.  I am not afraid to speak out and go for what I believe in because it's not really about me.  It's for the people that need my help and for that I have to be confident and not be intimidated by policy pressures and political agendas.  Peoples lives and dreams are hanging in the balance so I must March on!!! I am very proud of Brooke as well as my other daughter Kristie, (who also works in the field of Developmental Disabilities) for seeing the value in supporting others to reach their dreams and in doing so I am sure that they will find dreams of their   own will start coming true right along with them.

Quick Update

Here we are in February already.  January brought some warmer than normal temperatures giving me some perfect weather for a quick trip home to visit mom and dad.  Dad had some health concerns and I thought a shot of "Peggy" might cheer him up.  Mission was accomplished and he has turned the corner and is holding his own once again.  It was also great to see my kids and grandbaby Jaxx too.  He changes his looks so much between visits!




With the warmer weather there have been many deer out along the roads, luckily the majority of them behind the deer fencing.  As Ontario has been blasted with lots of snow this winter Charlotte County hasn't received much at all in my opinion.  We have only had to shovel the door yard 3 times so far but having said that a storm is being called for tomorrow and Friday. 
January brought a new visitor to our home.  A great man by the name of George needed a place to stay temporarily and was placed in my care.  He hails from Newfoundland and has lived in NB for a number of years now.  We are so glad he is here, bringing lots of laughs and friendship to everyone.  We are still not sure how long he will be staying but he is already wanting to redecorate his room and get a queen size bed!!  Everyone in the house is hoping he gets to stay, fits in with our special family just great.
As for February, so far the only negative thing that has happened is Britni and I had the flu.  After two days of being down and out we both bounced back into our routines as normal.  Paul and I enjoyed a night in Fredericton taking in the Dean Brody concert...great show and really nice for just the two of us to get away.
Today is crazy hat day at the program that Billy, Brit, and George attend so I'm posting a pic of Brit and Billy (aka Thing 1 and Thing 2) geared up and ready to go.

Things to look forward to - Dinner theater with Paul for Valentine's day this month and maple syrup season starting next month!!  My goodness, Spring will be here before we know it!!!

That's life in my happy home for another month.  Warm wishes and kind thoughts to all who read this.

Tis The Season

The snow arrived just in time to give me that last push to complete my Christmas shopping.  I'm not sure if it's going to last until Wednesday but right now it's a pretty, winter wonderland outside.
Inside, the house is toasty warm with the woodstove going and looks so cozy and festive with the decorations and lights.  Charlie loves the woodstove time of year.  Beside the stove is a stack of kindling and a container with newspapers and cardboard boxes that he loves to carry around the house and shred!!

Only a few more days until Santa arrives and the suspense will be over for Britni and Billy who wonder what he's going to bring them.

I want to wish everyone a Christmas filled with the love and laughter of family and friends and a New Year of happiness and good health. 

Lucky Bug

So here it is the middle of November already.  I apologize for neglecting to post in October but it was a very busy yet amazing month.  Three birthdays, Thanksgiving, Halloween and a trip to Ontario all squeezed into 31 days was quite a feat.
Paul and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing all of my family and many friends.  I feel so blessed to have Melanie and Rob Graham as friends that opened their home to us for the week and for family that went out of their way to share time and meals with us as well.

Now, onto the Lucky Bug topic. 
Since moving to New Brunswick 5 years ago I have been afforded much leisure time for pondering my seemingly blessed life.  Of course there have been times when I wondered how I would survive when times were tough but we all have those moments.  However, when looking at the big picture, a span of over 50 years, those points in time can sometimes feel insignificant when in actuality they were forks in the road.  Every fork a new beginning, a chance to move forward down a new path, a time for learning and for allowing myself to be open to new ideas.  I sometimes wonder how the negative things that have happened didn't devastate me as I've seen it done to some people.  Things like the end of long term relationships, loss of jobs, problems with my children, health issues, the deaths of family and friends, being the target of bullies and rumours, financial ruin....so many reasons to just fall apart, give up or at the very least to give in to the negativity and become a pessimist. 
Until recently I didn't have an answer to that question.  It was the night I was rearranging furniture in the house and in order to move the hope chest downstairs I had to empty it first.  Brooke and I had fun going through all the things I have saved over the years like my grade 8 report card and all kinds of school work and projects each of my children had proudly presented me with when they were young, even the braces off my teeth from when I was a teenager!!  Then I saw it and I knew...the small brown plastic ring box and the treasure inside.  I flashed back to the day I bought it when I was 14 years old at the fall fair at Hagersville Secondary School.  Fourteen is a difficult age and a point when I was enduring the  cruelty of bullies, hating school and just figuring out my parents knew nothing and only wanted to torture me. (of course the parent part wasn't true but it seemed that way in my mind at that time).  Then I saw this lady selling Lucky Bugs, simple hand painted stones of which I picked a golden one.  Now I don't remember why I bought it, what I hoped this little stone would do for me but whatever the reason, I made the purchase and have held onto it to this day.

Do I believe that every good thing that has happened in my life is because of this lucky bug?  Of course not.  That stone had a one in a billion chance of being picked up and painted and the odds were just as great that I would purchase it and save it for thirty eight years.  What I realized is that I AM THE LUCKY BUG!!!  Lucky in so many ways that it's hard to fathom.  Lucky that I have parents that believe in me even when I make the wrong choices, lucky to have friends and family that lift me up and carry me through the difficult times, lucky to have children that are both loving and forgiving, lucky that somehow I have received so much positive influence in my life that it flows over into every aspect of my being, lucky that I have been provided the opportunity to give others what I have received. Lucky that I have realized that on every path I have taken there have been some jagged stones but when I turn those stones over there has always been a smooth side to it.
So I guess the lesson my Lucky Bug has taught me is that it's not the stone you save that can change your life but it just might be all the ones that you didn't leave unturned.

Luck and Love to all that read this :)

Tick, Tick, Tick...

What a great month September has been.  Summer bowling ended for Britni and Billy and rather than join Special Olympic bowling we agreed to try out swimming for the winter.  No more night time driving in the winter and they actually enjoy it so much we are going twice a week!!  

Paul had to work in PEI for a weekend and asked me to join him with Britni and Billy so we managed to have a mini vacation...Billy's first time to the Island and we all had a great time.  Brit and Billy both had the opportunity to drive the golf cart which was pretty awesome and they were beaming!

I ordered some wood for the winter but am having a heat pump system put in the house so I will no longer need the wood/oil furnace...hooray!!!  I still like to have a fire once in a while in the woodstove so only 3 cords of wood should be needed.  The heat pump should be installed by the end of October after I return from my trip to Ontario.

In another week, Paul and I will be flying out of Saint John to Toronto for a week back home.  He is looking forward to the holiday from work and the chance to meet my family and friends.  We will be there from the 5th to the 12th so if you happen to read this and want to meet up just send me a message on facebook!!

Britni's birthday is October 1st, mine is on the 12th and Billy's the 28th.  Throw in Thanksgiving and Halloween to complete the recipe for another busy month.

Time continues to tick along and I will see you back here in October...Happy Fall my friends!

Yikes!!

It appears I missed the whole month of July...might have to sneak in two posts for August to make up for it.  July was a really busy month for me. 

First of all Paul and I enjoyed a weekend in PEI at the Cavendish Country Music Festival.  There were 40,000 people there the night Kenny Chesney played but we enjoyed all the concerts....Emerson Drive, Dixie Chicks, Dwight Yokham (he was kind of boring), Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Michelle Wright and many more.  I can now say I've been there and it would have to be a very special lineup for me to want to return.

One weekend we went to St. Martin's for the town wide yard sale.  While there I finally had the opportunity to stop in and meet Faye Henry, a very creative and inspiring lady whose blog I follow.  We have also been getting in some golfing and when we don't go to the course we like to practice chipping in the back yard.  Every Thursday night we are in Saint John for Country Star contest which is now down to the top 10.  There is lots of amazing talent around this area and I hope I don't jinx him but I am cheering for a young man from here in St. George, Tyler Deveaux.

Amongst all the fun things I've been doing I did find the time to have my downstairs bathroom gutted and redone.  It's so much nicer now with the opening changed from the kitchen to the hallway and I love my new bowl sink and old fashioned pump faucet.

Brooke is moving into her own place with a friend.  A new adventure for her and I'm sure many new life lessons will be learned.

So there you have it, July at a glance and now onto August!

Ontario or Bust!!!!

Last chance to sneak in a post before the start of a new month.  Hard to believe July is upon us tomorrow.  June was very exciting for everyone in the house.  Brooke and I got to go to Ontario to visit our family and friends; Britni and Billy got to visit Ontario for the first time and made all kinds of new friends while experiencing lots of adventures.

We left on June 6th, drove through the States and arrived in Falls, Ontario on June 7th at 4:30 in the afternoon.  It was a very easy and inexpensive drive, spent only $98 on gas!!  While visiting we took in Niagara Falls, Wonderland, Port Dover and St. Jacobs Amish community and farmer's market. 

 

I had the opportunity to visit with both my grandson's; Kingston and Jaxx.  What adorable little boys.  Very proud of Brad and Brittany, such great and loving parents! 

After lots of visiting, eating and sightseeing our vacation was soon over.  There is never enough time to visit everyone you want to but we always try our best.

I am planning on a return trip, either by myself or with Paul in October if all goes well.

Until then, onward into July we go!!

Paul and I are both excited to be going to the Cavendish Music Festival in PEI next weekend, lots of great entertainment and time to unwind!

See you back here with the July update and maybe even some more pictures :)

Lovin' Life!!

I hope everyone had a good Mother's Day.  Mine was fabulous, productive and surprising.  It started with a delicious breakfast prepared by Brooke.  Then Billy and Brooke helped me fill the flowerbeds with 25 bags of topsoil and stack rocks around them for a nice border.  Can't wait to fill the front of the house with impatiens, a colourful carpet of blooms that will last all summer.   Since it then started to rain, my mother's day continued with watching a movie with Brooke, Silver Lining Play Book, a nice cozy way to spend the afternoon.  Brooke then prepared one of my favorite meals for supper...Fettuccine Alfredo, Caesar salad and garlic bread.  YUM!!!  On top of all this Brooke and Rene gave me a beautiful Lilac Orchid and Rene painted my mud room!!  Awesome Mother's Day!!

What a perfect Spring we've been having.  Nice long evenings for sunset drives and the first campfire of the year.  The crickets were chirping and the frogs croaking along to the music of the crackling fire while overhead a full moon drifted above the tree tops...quite the sight!!  Paul's place back in amongst the forest is like a little piece of heaven on earth...very serene and beautiful.

We have had lots of great weather for drives and this is a picture of the sun setting over the water on our Harding Point drive to Gondola Point.

So that's some of what's been happening here in New Brunswick in the past month.  I'm now planning our trip to Ontario.  We are leaving here on June 7th, driving through the states and will be staying at the Days Inn in Brantford from the 9th - 14th.  This will be Billy and Britni's first visit to Ontario so we are all pretty excited to see the sites and meet up with lots of friends and family. 

See you all soon!  Love and laughter til then....

Just a Swingin'

There really has been a lot going on these past two months, not sure where to start.  I suppose the most happy news is that I am still seeing Paul who I mentioned last month.  Turns out he is such a great guy!!  I thought that my standards were set too high but Paul met everything I had on my check list, own home, own car, own income and possibly most important...own teeth...LOL!!!  He's smart, funny and very sociable.  What a treat it is to have a manly man around that enjoys family time, yard work and Dexter!!  He loves and appreciates my cooking and will do almost anything for an ice cream cone.  Fate seems to have smiled on me again and for that I am truly grateful.

My bedroom is complete and I am now able to enjoy some peace and privacy.  Next reno on the list is the downstairs bathroom.  The old tap broke and now the entire sink and plumbing will have to be overhauled.  I'm thinking since the sink and toilet match I will have to replace the toilet too so it will be aesthetically appealing.  There's always something to do in an older home!! 

Paul says between him and Billy they can cut the grass instead of paying the outrageous price of a lawn care company so we are going lawnmower shopping this week.  Also have to pick up a new gazebo since my old one got demolished by a windstorm last year. 

I'm still working on plans for our trip to Ontario...hoping for sometime in June but if that doesn't pan out will have to wait until September.  Flight costs are ridiculous in July and August!! 

Brooke is enjoying her job at the Universal Studios call center here is town.  Billy and Britni are doing great and over all life couldn't get much better.  Spring is finally here, the sun is beating down on my deck as I sit here on my swing typing....I think it would be rude to ask for more. 

That's it for April...love and laughter to all who read this.

March Update

It's rare that I blog more than once a month but there's been things going on that I thought I should include in my month of March.

Last week I decided to renovate my entryway room and give myself a new bedroom.  This is a large room that used to be a garage, and until now has been everything from an entryway room to a computer room and even my main living quarters for two years.  Since Brooke moved back in October I have been using it as my bedroom and as you can imagine, a bedroom in the main entryway offers no privacy.  I have had a wall built to provide a new small entryway/mudroom with a door now leading into my bedroom.  I can't believe how excited I am, the painter was in today to prime and tomorrow the new wood flooring goes in the bedroom and linoleum in the entryway.  Should be complete by Thursday when I will go shopping to furnish it.  I am trying not to feel guilty about this, it's been awhile since I've done anything just for me.  Everyone else in the house is well looked after and all their needs are met so having a little oasis for myself isn't over the top I suppose.

Charlie is really getting big...not much of a puppy anymore but still cute as a button.  He loves to ride on Brooke's shoulder in the van...not too comfortable for Brooke but he's a spoiled dog..what can I say?  Hahaha!!

That cool guy I met a few weeks ago is still in my life.  His name is Paul and we've been out a few times...such a nice man and has the approval of everyone in my house.  Those are some pretty high standards to meet!!  We were out for a drive on Saturday and these are a few of the pics from our adventure.  Such a great weekend with lots of laughter!!

 

Love and giggles to all :)

Farewell to Canadian Icon

Stompin' Tom Connors passed away today at the age of 77.

Tillsonburg....my back still aches when I hear that word.

Thanks for the memories Tom...R.I.P.

Welcome the Ides of March

Four more days until the clocks go ahead...and nine more til the Ides of March.  I didn't know that the Ides of March was the 15th of the month and there is actually an Ides of every month.  Ides just means the middle of the month so some months the Ides is on the 13th.  The Ides of March just sticks in my head as something to be feared...makes me think of evil Leprechauns but I have no idea why...LOL!  Now...putting the history lesson aside I want to welcome the Ides of March because it means longer days and that we are closer to Spring. 

I can't really say my life has changed too much over this winter which is a good thing I suppose since I have such a great life!!  However, I have been getting out quite a bit more than previous years meeting some really great people and having some good times with lots of laughter.  I made a very good friend that I went out with to play some pool...he taught me how to play 9 ball and I asked him if the cone shaped chalk on the wall was a salt lick...didn't want him to think I was uppity...  ..hahaha!  He then introduced me to a pub in St. John called Fish and Brews where we enjoyed a night of great live music, a few beverages and even some dancing...I now believe in miracles!!!  Just a great night overall spent with a really cool guy...fun times!!

Brooke has a new friend that is visiting for awhile.  Also she is enjoying her new job here in St. George.  Billy and Brit are anxiously awaiting the trip to Ontario..still no definite date yet but thinking it might be the end of June at the earliest. 

I guess I have a bit of Spring Fever because I had my living room and dining room painted and am now planning on building a bedroom downstairs so I can regain my privacy.  Hope to have that done by the end of the month if I can nail down a contractor!!

I think that's all the news in my little world.

See you back here in April :) 

I Forgot....

I see that I didn't post anything for December. I had a great Christmas this year with Brooke, Billy and Britni. Since this was the first time I put up a tree or decorated in over 4 years I thought I would post a couple pics.

Christmas Greetings from our cozy house to yours!

 

 

 

The tree before the presents :)

 

Brit with the tree...what a sweetie :)

Charlie got caught snooping the the stockings...looks so innocent! 

And The Wind Blew!!!

So here it is the middle of February already!  It's been a pretty uneventful winter weatherwise this year and that's ok by me.  So far we have only had two major snowfalls and some pretty cold days but this is Canada and to be expected.  From the sounds of it and pictures I've seen, it appears my old stomping grounds in Ontario got more snow than we did here in St. George with this last storm.  Sorry friends, but I love it when that happens...hahahaha!!! 

A few weeks ago we had some pretty strong winds.  Strong enough to blow my deck door open even with a desk and large tv in front of it, the tv did not survive the fall but it was an older model so not a big loss.  The chimney however is a different story.  The pipe on the top of the house came unlocked and blew off, it came tumbling down with a loud rumbling and vibrated the whole house.  When I went out to check it I tried to lift it, however it was heavier than it appeared.  I rolled it over to the porch and stood it up where it remains today.  Maritime heating came to take a look at it and just called to tell me some bad news.  The type of chimney I have is no longer being made so finding a new pipe to match the style that will lock into the existing chimney is not possible, going to have to replace the entire pipe from roof to basement.  I have made a new friend online that does this for a living and is advising me what to do.  It's nice to have someone looking out for me that has my best interest in mind and not dollar signs.  However it turns out, the work must be done if I am going to burn wood again next year.  I also want to look into this heat pump system that is out there, not having to deal with wood sounds good to me but I know this type of system will be very expensive.  Lots of research to do before anything gets done in the spring.  I'm just glad I have the woodstove and electric fireplaces for back up :)
So, do you want to hear about my love life?  Hahaha!!! I thought so!  Well, I don't have one..heehee.  I have met some really interesting people online, had coffee with some, just chat with others but am in no hurry to have my heart broke again anytime soon so am treading lightly into the dating scene with both eyes wide open.
My trip home in the spring may be put on hold due to the maintenance issues but I hope not.  Brit and Billy are looking as forward to the trip as I am so hopefully will be able to swing both things.
Won't be long now and Spring will be here...am looking forward to the time moving ahead and longer days.
That's my news for February, if anything earth shattering happens, I'll be back :)  Take care my friends, hugs to all!

A New Chance

Happy 2013 everyone.  I always get excited to start a new year...the wonder of new possibilities and new chances to improve and grow!  As usual I also like to reflect on the year gone by and I find it amazing to have overcome so many adversities yet here I stand...stronger than ever and just happy being me!

2012 went out in style dumping a foot of snow on our doorstep.  What a marvel it was to wake up and look outside to find the world pure and white...it reminded me of that first big snow when I was a child and how I couldn't wait to get outside to build forts, go tobaganning and make a snowman.  I have to admit as soon as that thought entered my head, it left and I thought about how was I going to get shovelled out!!  hahaha!  Luckily a kind neighbour came along with a snow blower and removed the bulk from the end of the driveway and my other neighbour, Sandy, helped Billy shovel what was left.

The wood stove is crackling and I am warm and happy with life...a great start to a new year.  I don't make resolutions but I do have some specific goals set for myself in 2013.  A trip home to Ontario in the spring, lots of road trips and since Billy has never been outside of New Brunswick other than into Maine I want to take him to PEI and Nova Scotia as well. 

May this year bring you happiness, love and good health.
Cheers!!

Looking Back to the Future

Anyone following my blog knows what a rollercoaster my life has been over the past 4 years.  The biggest benefit of this writing experience for me is that I am able to look back over time and see how far I have come with some insight into the possibilities for my future.

As I head into the final month of the year I am going to enjoy this Christmas by just counting all my blessings.  Who needs expensive gifts when you feel content within your heart?   Afterall, it wasn't that long ago when I was the closest I have ever been to bankruptcy and unsure of how I was going to pay any of my bills.  As life would have it an opportunity presented itself that was not only good for me, it provided me the chance to improve the lives of others. 

So let me take a moment to actually look at some of the blessings this year has brought.

•  My house did not sell...a blessing in disguise
•  Income opportunity appeared
•  Enjoyed a week in Ontario
•  Got two awesome housemates!
•  Met my new grandson Jaxx...perfect
•  My health did not let me down when the going got tough
•  My kids are in happy relationships
•  The house is warm and cozy
•  Brooke moved back here and found full time work

To celebrate the Christmas season I have decorated a tree and the stairs...looking very warm and inviting with a nice fire going at night.  Of course no holiday season is complete without a bunch of yummy baking to give away to some of my closest friends.  Britni is looking forward to helping with this and I know Billy will love delivering the tasty packages as much as I do.

This is my build up to Christmas 2012...it's sure to be a great one!  As for looking to the future, I now have some definite goals to reach and look forward to.  A trip home with everyone as soon as the weather clears in the new year...hoping for April, some more home improvements and lots of happy days!  Simple and attainable...my kind of goals!  Merry Christmas!

Better Late than Never

What an exciting two months it has been.  October began with my daughter Brooke moving back down here with me and she brought along my son's girlfriend and my new baby grandson with her for a two week visit.  How absolutely amazing it is to be a part of my son's life again and to have the opportunity to get to know Brittany and Jaxx.  He is such an adorable little guy (I suppose every grandmother thinks that of their grandchildren).  It was also heartwarming to see that Brad has a terrific girl in his life now.  She is very grounded and sensible, a treat to visit with!!  Their two week visit flew by and in no time we were seeing them off at the airport with the hopes of getting together in the not too distant future.

Brooke found a full time job in Saint John working in the billing department for Bell Mobility.  It may not be a life long career but it is a good start to getting back on her feet financially and then hopefully school again next year.  It has been awesome having her back here and Britni is enjoying her company.  I am enjoying the extra help around the house but my favorite part is just having her here to spend time with.

November has also flown by with a week long visit from Brooke's friend Emmi. Of course there were lots of day trips to Saint John, Calais and all the scenic areas Charlotte County has to offer.  Just like Brittany, Emmi fell in love with New Brunswick and wishes to move here...time will tell I guess.

For the first time in 4 years I have a christmas tree up and am looking forward to a good old fashioned Christmas. The turkey is in the freezer and I have a good start on the Christmas shopping.  Our newest addition to the family, Charlie, especially likes the tree.  Charlie is a Bichon Frise/Malteese dog which is loved by the whole family.

Overall, I am really happy with the changes that have occured over the past year.  It seems hard to believe that at the same time last year I was hoping against hope that my house would sell and I would be able to move on alone and get back on my feet.  As fate and a lot of hard work would have it I managed to hang on and now life has done a complete turn around.  The people I have living with me enjoy being here and are reaching for their own goals with great success.  I have been able to retire from the work force and stay at home just taking care of my gang. 

Well, I guess that's my update for October and November..sorry for the delay.  My life feels full again as does my heart.  Life is good! 
 

A Very Special Reunion

As hard to believe as you may find this, I am posting twice in one month!!!  It's pouring rain outside and a perfect day for blogging.
I am settling in nicely to my three month leave of absence from work and enjoying the time I get to spend with my new roomies.  I wanted to  share this story with you because I think it is important for anyone who works, lives with or even just knows people that have developmental disabilities and want to make a difference in their lives. 

Jim's parents passed away and he was sent to another town to live with his sister and her husband.  While living there he was able to access a program that provided him with meaningful ways to spend his time doing things that he truly enjoyed.  Jim was, and remains to this day a very high energy man that likes to be busy.  He went swimming, snow shoeing and got together with friends through this program and really felt a part of something.
Eventually the family living arrangement broke down and this is where my concern begins.
Jim was picked up with no notice and placed in a special care home 2 hours away.  The program that he was attending was never notified, neither Jim nor his friends and program staff had a chance to say good bye.
Fast forward 10 years. 
Jim is still living in the special care home where he has become quite comfortable. He truly cares for the lady that runs the home but wishes the home wasn't so isolated.  He lives 30 minutes away from the nearest town and 40 minutes away from the day program he attends.  Jim has made lots of new friends at the new day program and has had a girlfriend for many years whom he only sees when at the program. 
I started working at the program last year and since my first day, Jim has repeatedly talked about the old program he used to attend and how he would like to visit.  I asked him why he hasn't visited and he said no one would take him as it's two hours away.  Jim can not read or write so it would be impossible for him to find the information to call his friends or to contact them through email or facebook by himself.
I found the Association online and sent of an email stating who I was and my relationship to the man that used to attend their program.  After 10 years I told Jim the same people are not likely to be working there but we would wait and see if we got a response.  The next morning there was an email waiting for me from the executive director and she was overjoyed to have finally heard from someone regarding Jim.  We set a date for a visit and she was going to make sure all the key people that Jim knew would be there.
I am happy to say that last weekend we made the beautiful, scenic 1 and 1/2 hour drive to reunite Jim with his friends.  There were tears and laughter but most of all a sense of peace for Jim afterwards.  There was also a sense of pride and belonging when he realized people truly had missed him and worried about him all this time with no idea where he had gone except they knew he had been placed in a special care home.  He is now connected with them all as they eagerly opened their facebook accounts and added him as a friend....thank God for Facebook!  Although Jim can't read he knows their profile pictures and gets help to read the messages.

So that is my story for September.  I learned a huge lesson from this experience.  As a person who works with and lives with people with some form of disability I can provide all the necessary day to day care for someone but it's the actual caring about someone that makes the real difference.  I have always found that people I support rarely ask for anything and they don't complain to people that provide them with care because they are afraid of what may happen to them.  I believe it is our duty to ask the important questions and make things happen.  I hope when this life is over I can be priveledged enough to know that I was the answer to someone's prayer.

Summer's End

September already?  What a beautiful summer we have had but the nip in the morning air tells me it's almost time to give up the sandles. 
As usual in my life there has been lots going on with a few changes thrown in to keep life interesting.  As you probably know, Britni moved in the end of March and we had a great summer filled with lots of fun activities and Brit made some new friends when my friends from Ontario came to visit.  I went back to Ontario for a visit in August to check up on my mom and dad and visit with my kids.  It was a great time, especially meeting Brad's girlfriend Brittany and their new baby Jaxx : )... but can't say that I miss that Ontario heat and humidity.
Once back here in St. George, Billy moved in.  I am now an Alternative Family Living Arrangement (AFLA) which is a program here in NB much like the Associate Family program in Ontario in which a person can open their home to assist people with disabilities.  I think this is such a great alternative to having people living in group homes whenever possible.  We are a happy little family of three enjoying life.
For the time being, I am on a leave of absence from the Community Living Center Program and am just staying home hanging out with Brit...Billy just had his gall bladder out yesterday but will be returning to the program next week.  I have some day trips and weekend excursions planned for us to explore this beautiful province which is what I have wanted to do since moving here.


Britni and I did get out whale watching this year when Debbie and Debra were here visiting from Ontario.  We saw lots of seals, a group of whales and many different types of atlantic birds.  We also took the ferries over to Campabello Island.






 

 

Billy and I took a drive with a couple friends in our new van down to Eastport, ME last weekend and discovered it was their Pirate Days festival.  What an array of colourful costumes and a conglomeration of scents and sounds to spark our senses on a beautiful day.  Hope you like the pictures.  More adventures on the way for fall...keep in touch!

From Charlotte County to Charlottetown and Beyond!

Relaxing at the beach, enjoying an evening ferry ride, long drives to nowhere in particular and just being happy spending time with good friends...that's what has been going on over the past few weeks.  We really couldn't have asked for a better summer, beautiful sunny days with a nice breeze and just the perfect amount of rain sprinkled in to keep everything emerald green.

I have a few bits of news to impart on you this month.  Britni has settled in nicely and we had a great time in PEI one weekend in July.  I'll post a couple pictures for you later.  We are expecting Bill to be moving in September 1st so more changes are on the way but I believe they will be positive ones.  I am still enjoying work at the Community Living Center.  We are currently studying Alice in Wonderland between trips to the beach and other activities that keep us out and about in Charlotte County.

I will be heading back to Ontario for a visit this month.  I was going to make the trip in October, however my dad is dealing with some health issues and I just don't feel right putting it off.  So I will be leaving on the 23rd and returning on the 30th.  My reservations at the Days Inn, Brantford have been made and the plane ticket purchased.  I look forward to seeing my grandsons and my kids and I am very excited to meet Brad's girlfriend Brittany and her son Brodie while I am there.   Since I will have internet access this trip it should be easier to make dinner arrangements during the week for a nice get together I hope.

So here are a few pictures from my summer of fun so far.  Enjoy xo

Britni (left) on the rollercoaster at Sandspit, PEI

Me and Brit joking around at Cow's Ice Cream Shop near Charlottetown, PEI.  We stayed at the Howard Johnson's just down the road. 

This was at Canoe Cove a short drive from our hotel.  I was disappointed that Cavendish beach was so expensive but the great people at Howard Johnson's told us about this beach where all the locals go and it was absolutely free. 

Coming home at sunset on the ferry from Deer Island Tuesday evening.

My new grandson Jaxx Kevin Earl born July 26th 2012, 7lbs. 5oz.

Been Awhile

Friday seemed to be a long time coming this week.  Probably due to it being a long weekend and the week consisted mostly of rain...however the weekend has shaped up to be absolutely beautiful.  Everything is eyepopping green from all the rain and the air smells sweet and fresh.  What a great way to start July! 

Life here is St. George continues to be peaceful and I finally feel able to breathe easy. I was hoping to get back to Ontario before now but we are still getting settled in with Brit here so it's best I wait until I know I can enjoy the time away without having to worry.

Work at the Community Living Center is still a blast...now with summer here we will be going on lots of day trips which everyone looks forward too.  I have a few dates booked to take some folks touring some castle and graveyard in St. John one day and another day going to Dooley's to play pool in St. Stephen with a few of the guys!  Other excursions planned at the center are picnic days at New River Beach, a trip on the ferry to Grand Manann  Island and a visit to the Aquarium in St. Andrew's.

Brit and I are taking a couple friends to PEI for a weekend of fun this month at Sandspot...Brit loves the rollercoasters so it should be quite entertaining.

I experienced my first 3D movie last week with Brit...Madagascar 3D!!  I have to admit I was like a little kid putting my hand up to touch things as they flew at my face...hahaha.  She is now working hard to save up money to go see Brave. 

Steve has taken up a new hobby...remote control trucks!  I have been trying to find an RC store or hobby store that sells RC's but am not having any luck.  I know there are better quality trucks out there than the ones at The Source or Future Shop...I mean actual racing remote control trucks.  If anybody reading this knows of one please let me know.

That's all for now...Happy Canada Day Weekend!!

More New Beginnings

I have been avoiding writing on here for fear of saying something that will be used against me in the future.  Isn't it a shame that there are people out there waiting for the opportunity to take advantage of anything positive that someone is trying to do to better their lives just because they have a need for negative drama in their lives.  I have been advised by a friend to start another blog but I have decided to throw caution to the wind and continue with this one.  I do love to write and keeping my friends and family up to date is important to me.

April has been a mixture of cold and warm weather and now that the month is drawing to an end we have been experiencing rain and some pretty high winds.  It looks like within a week I will have to get the grass mowed but isn't that a sure sign that spring has sprung?  I look forward to that first smell of cut grass! 

Spring is also a great time for new beginnings.  As I mentioned in March, Steve has moved in and we continue to work out the kinks of a new relationship.  Along with that new relationship we have taken in a young woman with some unique special needs.  We are trying our best to give her a life of dignity and respect and so far we are all enjoying the experience.  We are hoping soon to be adding another member to our family...a guy for Steve to spend time with! 

I am so happy that I have been able to take the house off the market as I have felt since the first time I walked through it that I was meant to be here.  Now I understand why and I feel that by giving of myself and my home to provide a full and meaningful life to someone else will also bring meaning and fullness to mine.

Steve and I both know that there will be many bumps and challenges along the way but we are willing to learn and try our best in what could be our biggest accomplishment.

Thanks to my daughter Kristie for all your encouragement and understanding. 

The Worm Has Turned

It will never work....that's what someone told me and more than likely what most people thought. I have been in a long distance relationship for over a year and a half with 2 1/2 hours, 300 km between us with no glimmer of hope that either of our circumstances were going to change in the forseeable future.  His career (which he despises) driving truck was in Moncton and a job I love is here in St. George...not many job opportunities here in Charlotte County in his line of work.  So we wait, sometimes patiently and other times not so patiently.
I have always believed that everything happens for a reason, good things come to those who wait and sometimes opportunity knocks but it's up to you to open the door and take a leap of faith.  Well knock, knock....who's there??  It's opportunity so come on in!!!!!  Steve has moved down and it is with faith that we believe everything is going to be fine, work finds you here in St. George if you are willing to put yourself out there.  He has managed to find work that suits him and gets him off the road, I still get to keep the job I enjoy and we get to spend time together.  Mission accomplished.  Nothing bad ever seems to come from positive thinking.  So when someone with a negative attitude tells you it will never work....just smile and  and keep movin!

Appreciation

I wonder how many people work for an employer that truly cares about their employees.  I know I do.  Yesterday I found myself in our usual morning staff meeting unable to raise my head without feeling like I was floating out of my body.  It was the same feeling I had last summer and dread filled me as I thought, here we go again!  With total understanding my boss offered me a ride home but I opted for a coworker to drive me in my car followed by another coworker to bring her back to work.  There has been a virus going around and I was hoping that wasn't what had me feeling nauseous.  Once home I realized I had not taken my medication since Sunday!  I am usually very concienscious about taking it for fear of having a set back and can't explain why for two days in a row I slipped in my routine.  I took my meds and laid down waiting for it to take effect.  About 3 hours later my boss called to check on me and was legitimately concerned about my well being.  I have worked in the past for some really great people but this was different.  She let me know that they were thinking of me and said if there was anything I needed just to call.
It took most of the day for the medication to really make a difference but it took only one phone call to make me feel better, comforted.
I am up and about feeling back to normal and looking forward to going to work.  I see on my facebook even one of the people I support sent me get well wishes.  Is it really any wonder I love my job?  I know it's not Thanksgiving but I think maybe today's class will be some creative writing on who and what we have in our lives that we take for granted and need to stop and appreciate. 
Happy Thursday my friends.

Sittin, Thinkin

It's 6:30 in the morning here and I am just sitting here enjoying the wonderful smell and taste of my first cup of coffee.  Hook seems to be full of energy this morning tearing around the room tossing whatever he can find to play with in the air and then bringing it to me for a treat.  The phone rang a minute ago leaving me to wonder who else is up this early, unfortunately my phone battery was dead so when I picked it up it disconnected.  They haven't called back so I'm thinking it was a wrong number.

Steve just sent a text to say good morning and that he is on his way to Fredericton...another long day for him.  I'm thankful for the weather this winter...snow and ice on the roads leads to worry when people have to drive for a living.

When I first woke this morning my first thought was how great it is to wake up feeling rested and ready to start the day.  So many days recently I have just wanted to stay curled up in the warm bed so this has lead me to think some more about what things make me feel really happy.  Here's a few things on my list and I hope you will stop and think about yours and send them to me : )

1. That first coffee in the morning
2. The aroma of soup simmering on the stove
3. Puppy kisses
4. A hot bath with a good book
5. Phone calls or visits from friends and family
6. The look and smell of my house after a good cleaning
7. Crawling into a bed with fresh sheets and pillow cases
8. The smell of fresh cut grass
9. Memories that make me laugh to myself
10. Having a job I love going to every day!

It can be easy to get caught up in things that are going wrong in our lives, always wishing for things to change for the better or thinking I'm going to do that when I have more money but really, there is something everyday that just makes getting out of bed worth it.  Glad I took the time this morning to sit and think about it, arent you?

Have a great day my friends!

Lessons Learned

It's hard to believe another year has come and gone.  December was a rush of excitement at work which made the month seem to evaporate.  I guess it's that time now to reflect on just what happened this year and absorb what lessons were learned.  These are my top 10 for 2011.

1. Sharing my gifts are truly what make them gifts
2. Giving money away to the cable and satelite companies all these years was a total waste of money.
3. Long distance relationships can work and grow
4. Good friends are easy to find if you are one of them
5. I get what I think about the most so it's important to stay positive
6. Talking to your parents (grandparents) regularly is important
7. My health is important and I must listen to my body
8. Communication skills only work if both parties have the skills
9. My grass is just as green as everyone else's
10. Loving myself is paramount, loving and accepting love from others is a blessing.

So my friends, take care in the new year.  May it bring you love and laughter, good health and a joyful heart.

Happy New Year!
Love
Peggy

By Hook or By Crook!

It appears I missed November altogether...sorry about that.  I guess there was either not enough exciting to write about or too much going on to take the time for writing.

Work is going great...my coworkers and I have been doing some fun classes with the folks we support and we are all learning in the process.  This month we are exploring Christmas around the world, a different country and their traditions everyday.  So far I think I like Egypts customs the most as they are most focused on the true meaning of Christmas with very few gifts and more religion and family centered.  Today we are going on a journey to Brazil where they boast the worlds largest Christmas tree!
I have also completed a course to become a reading tutor.  A few folks that I support at work expressed a keen interest in learning how to read so my coworker and I took the two weekend course and have been busy starting the learning process with them.  What a great feeling it is to help someone learn to do what most of us take for granted!

Now that things have settled down for me and I am down to one job I felt it was time to embrace the idea of getting a new puppy.  I miss Maddie so much and the house is just to quiet living alone.  I have had a dog my whole life and I really miss the companionship.  So, Hook entered my life last Sunday.  I was told he is a Malteese/Terrior mix but he's pretty big for 10 weeks old.  We will see just how big he gets but he sure is a cutie and hooked my heart at first sight.

Steve and I are doing great.  He is hoping to move down here by Christmas which we are both looking forward to.  It has been a trying year of long distance relating but it has somehow worked out.

I did manage to get 4 cords of wood this year for the wood furnace and thanks to the High School Rugby team it all got stored and stacked down in my basement.  A great thing about living in a small community is that you only need to ask for help and it is there!  What a terrific bunch of young men and great coaches for rolemodels.

I think that is all the news for today...time to get ready for my last day of work this week.  Happy Friday everyone!

Still Smiling!

I'm happy to report that nothing much has changed in my life in the past month.  I did take on a new venture but realized it wasn't my cup of tea and just let it go and have to admit I feel better for doing so.

I am still seeing Steve and enjoy whatever time we do get to spend together.  He just purchased a 2012 Santa Fe so driving down here from Moncton won't be such a worry as it was with his old truck.  My work is going great and I am really enjoying the teaching aspects of it as well as the great staff because we all work together as a team to better people's lives.

It's bird hunting season here so I have heard.  I didn't know there was such a thing.  I guess they shoot pheasants and maybe wild turkeys but can't say that for sure.  I have never eaten wild birds with the exception of the few times in my life that I've had to eat crow but I guess that's different :o). 

I had a little chuckle at the gas station tonight.  While filling up I glanced up at the actual price of gas and it was a whopping $1.27.5/L!!!!  The last time I got gas it was $1.22.  I mentioned this to the boy working on cash and his reply was that there were changes in the budget and when that happens everything seems to go up.  I was thrilled when he gave me this information and I told him I would be sure to pass it on to my boss tomorrow so she can raise my wages....I'm sure she is unaware of this budget stuff as well!!!  Hahahaha!!!

I guess that's all I have to say for October, although it's not much...no news is good news in my books!!  Happy Fall my friends..xoxo