I read in today's newspaper about a small business owner who is on the brink of bankruptcy because of a completely unforeseen circumstance. They've run a nursery for 14 years and paid all their power bills on time but once, while away for the winter, one bill of $345 went unpaid due to an oversight by the owners. The power company shut off their power in the dead of winter which caused broken pipes and destroyed plants to the tune of half a million dollars. Who is to blame here? I unequivocally believe the power company is totally at fault for not having the decency to give a little slack to a long time customer who always paid his bills on time previously.
A few years ago, while I was wintering in Florida, my gas company decided it was right to turn off the gas to replace a meter. I had a gas furnace so, if my neighbor hadn't seen what was happening, my pipes would have burst and destroyed my house. Steve took care of my house while I was away so he was able to go inside and relight the gas furnace before any harm was done.
Common sense by the power and gas companies would have been useful here. It seems more and more that people are losing that trait and it's causing sometimes devastating effects. If I had a customer who'd paid their bills on time for 14 years and suddenly missed one, I'd make it a point to check further to see what was wrong. If I ran a company that could turn off someone's heat in the middle of the winter, I wouldn't do it until I knew someone would be home to turn it back on. It's only common sense.
Every day I see drivers swinging their vehicles all over the road endangering themselves and anyone else in their way. They're either drunk or on their cell phones...selfish people!
I think the people who work for these big corporations forget that their customers are ordinary people who rely on their services and to disrupt them can cause untold and unnecessary loss. In the same vein, dangerous drivers forget that they're not the center of the universe and their actions can cause the death of innocent people.
A little common sense would go a long way in making this world a better one.
Monday, June 29, 2015
Friday, June 26, 2015
Skin Color
In the not too distant future our descendants will be ashamed of us for discriminating against someone based on skin color. We'll be the backwards creatures with so little intelligence that we enslaved or hated people whose skin was different from our own.
Our descendants will pity us for our ignorance and be grateful they have become enlightened. They'll choose their friends and leaders based on personality and integrity instead of even considering skin tone as a factor.
No, we're not all racists and I hope our descendants take that into consideration when judging us.
Our descendants will pity us for our ignorance and be grateful they have become enlightened. They'll choose their friends and leaders based on personality and integrity instead of even considering skin tone as a factor.
No, we're not all racists and I hope our descendants take that into consideration when judging us.
Thursday, June 25, 2015
Country Divided
It's not a nice thing to think of your country, the place your ancestors called home more than a 100 years ago, splitting into 2 or even 3 separate countries. Quebec has often been a source of disgruntled citizens wanting to separate from Canada but it's only recently that I became aware that western Canada, the prairie provinces, felt the same way.
Maybe Canada is too big. Maybe the differences from east to west are too vast to make one cohesive country. Maybe it's just that the grass often looks greener on the other side. Make a change and there will be instant gratification.
I've always felt that Quebec is catered to by the rest of the country and given more than their fair share of government resources but learning that the western provinces also want out is a sad thought. It would kind of leave little old Ontario stranded in the middle.
Would we be swallowed up by the United States? I'm betting that would be a natural option and Canada, as a country, would disappear forever.
Who would have thought that there was a good probability that a country as huge as Canada could actually be broken apart and disappear from the map? I have to admit that it could happen.
Maybe Canada is too big. Maybe the differences from east to west are too vast to make one cohesive country. Maybe it's just that the grass often looks greener on the other side. Make a change and there will be instant gratification.
I've always felt that Quebec is catered to by the rest of the country and given more than their fair share of government resources but learning that the western provinces also want out is a sad thought. It would kind of leave little old Ontario stranded in the middle.
Would we be swallowed up by the United States? I'm betting that would be a natural option and Canada, as a country, would disappear forever.
Who would have thought that there was a good probability that a country as huge as Canada could actually be broken apart and disappear from the map? I have to admit that it could happen.
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
New View
The Visit
Yesterday I went to visit a friend who is dying. That may sound harsh but it's the truth and a fact of life. This is a lady I've admired since I first met her, someone who has lived a decent life and raised her children on her own. She doesn't in the slightest deserve the deal she's been given by whoever is in control of things here on earth.
I've put off visiting because I didn't want to see her in the condition she's in but that was selfish of me. This lady wasn't supposed to live to see last Christmas but she has held on by sheer will. Luckily, she has a wonderfully supportive husband who takes very good care of her with the help of visiting nurses and support workers.
These are god fearing people who are strong supporters of their church and both have lived their lives in exemplary ways...hard working and all that is good in human beings. I felt they should feel some anger for their god but they haven't lost their faith, instead have drawn comfort from it.
She's always been a cheery soul who, despite poor heath for years, never complained about her problems. She and her husband have lived a comfortable and interesting life for the past 15 years (second marriage). They seemed destined to be together, so happy with their second chance.
She's unable to care for herself now and has to be helped to her bed or recliner where she spends most of her time. She has wonderful family and friends who help to fill her days so she's very lucky in that aspect. But the worst part of her day is when she's helped into bed. Any stress on her body at all makes her breathless but the simple act of getting from chair to bed is the time when she fears she won't recover her breath and that, to me, is simply horrible. She faces this every single day and I don't know how she has the strength...but maybe I do...it has to come from her deep faith in her religion.
She remains the same person she's always been, one who accepts her life any way it is. She's grateful for what she has...a good husband, family and friends and feels peace in the comfort of her religion. I hate the way in which her body has failed her and robbed her of more good years that she richly deserves but she doesn't complain. I'm in awe of her strength.
The best we can hope for is that she'll die peacefully in her sleep and I honestly hope she's been right all along and that there's a heaven waiting to welcome her in.
I've put off visiting because I didn't want to see her in the condition she's in but that was selfish of me. This lady wasn't supposed to live to see last Christmas but she has held on by sheer will. Luckily, she has a wonderfully supportive husband who takes very good care of her with the help of visiting nurses and support workers.
These are god fearing people who are strong supporters of their church and both have lived their lives in exemplary ways...hard working and all that is good in human beings. I felt they should feel some anger for their god but they haven't lost their faith, instead have drawn comfort from it.
She's always been a cheery soul who, despite poor heath for years, never complained about her problems. She and her husband have lived a comfortable and interesting life for the past 15 years (second marriage). They seemed destined to be together, so happy with their second chance.
She's unable to care for herself now and has to be helped to her bed or recliner where she spends most of her time. She has wonderful family and friends who help to fill her days so she's very lucky in that aspect. But the worst part of her day is when she's helped into bed. Any stress on her body at all makes her breathless but the simple act of getting from chair to bed is the time when she fears she won't recover her breath and that, to me, is simply horrible. She faces this every single day and I don't know how she has the strength...but maybe I do...it has to come from her deep faith in her religion.
She remains the same person she's always been, one who accepts her life any way it is. She's grateful for what she has...a good husband, family and friends and feels peace in the comfort of her religion. I hate the way in which her body has failed her and robbed her of more good years that she richly deserves but she doesn't complain. I'm in awe of her strength.
The best we can hope for is that she'll die peacefully in her sleep and I honestly hope she's been right all along and that there's a heaven waiting to welcome her in.
Sunday, June 21, 2015
Peace
It's true that people change in many different ways as they grow older but I'm experiencing a change I'm not sure I understand.
The weather is lovely, floors are washed and laundry is done, I have money, and I'm feeling good...but I just want to stay home and enjoy the peace and quiet of my life. I don't want to mingle with people right now and I don't know why.
Maybe the bit of drama going on at the moment is overwhelming my senses and that's why I want to be alone. The drama is just normal family stuff but a little intense these days through no fault of my loved ones. I used to have to unwind after work or school in the past and this is probably my way of unwinding before jumping back into the fray.
I'm not dressed to go out, either, but wearing a pretty lounger I bought at the flea market in Florida. Perfect for a day like this when I'm staying home!
When wanting to spend more time alone first became apparent to me, it was after I'd spent the winter in Florida where not much time is ever spent alone. I love all that socializing but realized I also needed the mostly alone time I have when I'm back home for the summer. It's so peaceful here in my little apartment and there is no stress whatsoever. Anyway, it's just nice to relax without pressure to have to be somewhere else at a given time.
Could I be winding down because of my age? It's probably more that it's just been in recent years that I've experienced pleasant alone time, not being lonely but peaceful. It's probably nothing to be concerned about but I don't want to turn into a hermit. That would be unhealthy. But today I'll simply enjoy my peace and quiet day and get ready for the busy week ahead.
The weather is lovely, floors are washed and laundry is done, I have money, and I'm feeling good...but I just want to stay home and enjoy the peace and quiet of my life. I don't want to mingle with people right now and I don't know why.
Maybe the bit of drama going on at the moment is overwhelming my senses and that's why I want to be alone. The drama is just normal family stuff but a little intense these days through no fault of my loved ones. I used to have to unwind after work or school in the past and this is probably my way of unwinding before jumping back into the fray.
I'm not dressed to go out, either, but wearing a pretty lounger I bought at the flea market in Florida. Perfect for a day like this when I'm staying home!
When wanting to spend more time alone first became apparent to me, it was after I'd spent the winter in Florida where not much time is ever spent alone. I love all that socializing but realized I also needed the mostly alone time I have when I'm back home for the summer. It's so peaceful here in my little apartment and there is no stress whatsoever. Anyway, it's just nice to relax without pressure to have to be somewhere else at a given time.
Could I be winding down because of my age? It's probably more that it's just been in recent years that I've experienced pleasant alone time, not being lonely but peaceful. It's probably nothing to be concerned about but I don't want to turn into a hermit. That would be unhealthy. But today I'll simply enjoy my peace and quiet day and get ready for the busy week ahead.
Saturday, June 20, 2015
Another Mass Murder By Gunman
He walked into a church and shot and killed 9 people because they were black. He is a 21 year old unemployed white man who had delusions of grandeur in his hate filled little mind. He thought his cowardly act would make him somehow important.
As he stood before the judge who was charging him with murder, he looked like a skinny kid and no-one you would look at twice. He didn't look like a murderer...but he is now.
The families of the people he killed stood up to give an impact statement. They cried but they forgive him and his immortal soul. They refused to respond to their incredible loss with more hatred. They are better people than I would ever be.
I think it's their religious training that opened their hearts and allowed them to forgive the skinny young man before them, the one who murdered their loved ones because of the color of their skin. I admire them. I wish I could be more like them. They have no idea their words of forgiveness have settled in this old Canadian's mind and is giving her food for thought.
He'll never pose a threat to anyone ever again because he'll spend the rest of his life in prison. He might have thought his life was miserable before but he will find out what misery is when the other prisoners get their hands on him...and they will.
If this scrawny boy/man had not had access to a gun he would have limited his hatred to words and 9 innocent people would still be alive and their families wouldn't be mourning their loss. If he had any self respect, he would have known that an armed man attacking innocent unarmed people is a supreme act of cowardice.
Brave people don't commit despicable acts like this...only the cowardly do it. He was a coward with a gun and a heart filled with hate. If only he hadn't had a gun. If only...
As he stood before the judge who was charging him with murder, he looked like a skinny kid and no-one you would look at twice. He didn't look like a murderer...but he is now.
The families of the people he killed stood up to give an impact statement. They cried but they forgive him and his immortal soul. They refused to respond to their incredible loss with more hatred. They are better people than I would ever be.
I think it's their religious training that opened their hearts and allowed them to forgive the skinny young man before them, the one who murdered their loved ones because of the color of their skin. I admire them. I wish I could be more like them. They have no idea their words of forgiveness have settled in this old Canadian's mind and is giving her food for thought.
He'll never pose a threat to anyone ever again because he'll spend the rest of his life in prison. He might have thought his life was miserable before but he will find out what misery is when the other prisoners get their hands on him...and they will.
If this scrawny boy/man had not had access to a gun he would have limited his hatred to words and 9 innocent people would still be alive and their families wouldn't be mourning their loss. If he had any self respect, he would have known that an armed man attacking innocent unarmed people is a supreme act of cowardice.
Brave people don't commit despicable acts like this...only the cowardly do it. He was a coward with a gun and a heart filled with hate. If only he hadn't had a gun. If only...
Thursday, June 18, 2015
T-Ball 2015
I wasn't able to attend Nash's first 2 t-ball games this year (his first) but, when I went last night, I hoped the little ones would still be green enough to give us plenty of entertainment. I was right!
This is Nolan's second year playing t-ball so he knew the ropes and was one of the star players. He could hit the ball and knew enough to run to first base when he did. I think most of the little ones, both boys and girls, were newbies who had trouble hitting the ball and, either stood there not moving or chased the ball they'd just hit into the infield. It just warms your heart to see these little people trying to learn the game and it further warms your heart to watch the patient and dedicated parents and helpers who do their best to teach them.
One of the most endearing moments was when one little girl made it all around the bases to home base but, like a lot of the kids, didn't realize she was supposed to actually touch home base when she got there. One of the fathers was the home base coach who tried to explain that she should touch the base but she didn't seem to understand so he put his foot on the base and pointed at it to demonstrate. She still looked confused for a few moments and then tentatively put her little foot right on top of his. How absolutely adorable!
These t-ball games never fail to impress anyone who watches them over the course of the summer. Most of the children arrive wearing grossly oversized team shirts and with no idea how the game is played. It is a joy to watch them learn and become confident. Not all are stars but they don't have to be.
Nolan is too cool this year to play in the dirt during the game like he did last year but Nash made up for it. At any time there were at least 3 or 4 kids digging in the dirt instead of watching and participating in the game. Another 3 or 4 were having private conversations. There was even one play where not one of Nash and Nolan's team were aware that the other team's batter had hit the ball and was running for first base. This will all improve over the next 2 months, though, thanks to those wonderful volunteer parents and helpers.
Occasionally a player gets hurt and you hear wails coming from the field. It's usually one little kid who got trampled in the gang rush to get the ball. I didn't hear any wailing from kids who just wanted their mother, though.
It was a beautiful warm late spring evening to be out in the fresh air watching our youngest generation learning the value of sports.
This is Nolan's second year playing t-ball so he knew the ropes and was one of the star players. He could hit the ball and knew enough to run to first base when he did. I think most of the little ones, both boys and girls, were newbies who had trouble hitting the ball and, either stood there not moving or chased the ball they'd just hit into the infield. It just warms your heart to see these little people trying to learn the game and it further warms your heart to watch the patient and dedicated parents and helpers who do their best to teach them.
One of the most endearing moments was when one little girl made it all around the bases to home base but, like a lot of the kids, didn't realize she was supposed to actually touch home base when she got there. One of the fathers was the home base coach who tried to explain that she should touch the base but she didn't seem to understand so he put his foot on the base and pointed at it to demonstrate. She still looked confused for a few moments and then tentatively put her little foot right on top of his. How absolutely adorable!
These t-ball games never fail to impress anyone who watches them over the course of the summer. Most of the children arrive wearing grossly oversized team shirts and with no idea how the game is played. It is a joy to watch them learn and become confident. Not all are stars but they don't have to be.
Nolan is too cool this year to play in the dirt during the game like he did last year but Nash made up for it. At any time there were at least 3 or 4 kids digging in the dirt instead of watching and participating in the game. Another 3 or 4 were having private conversations. There was even one play where not one of Nash and Nolan's team were aware that the other team's batter had hit the ball and was running for first base. This will all improve over the next 2 months, though, thanks to those wonderful volunteer parents and helpers.
Occasionally a player gets hurt and you hear wails coming from the field. It's usually one little kid who got trampled in the gang rush to get the ball. I didn't hear any wailing from kids who just wanted their mother, though.
It was a beautiful warm late spring evening to be out in the fresh air watching our youngest generation learning the value of sports.
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Hate To Cook
Shelley and I were shopping one day and we spotted this fridge magnet. She bought it for me because it says all there is to say about my kitchen skills.
I'm actually not a horrible cook, just a disinterested one who has had more than her fair share of kitchen disasters. This is one reason cooking is far from my favorite thing to do. I tend to improvise with a recipe and that's where the disaster starts. I once made a chicken liver meal that even my dog wouldn't eat. The problem began when I substituted chicken livers for beef liver...apparently it made a big difference.
I also remember my children coming home in tears of embarrassment because they couldn't even give my home made cookies away at their school bake sale. Now, wouldn't that destroy any cook's confidence?
I accept I'm not a good cook for anything but basic meals but basic meals are boring after a while. That's why I prefer restaurants.
There is no guilt on my part for giving up cooking on a daily basis. I am what I am!
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Gotten Out of Hand
Have you ever gotten carried away with something and realized it's gotten a little out of hand? I have to admit it happens to me a lot but at least I recognize it fairly quickly and take steps to get better control of myself.
Today I got my hair cut ($30) and then got a pedicure ($41). I have never paid that much for a pedicure in my life!! I need them because callouses build up quickly on my feet and start to hurt if I don't have a pedicure but $41!!!!! So, today I spent $71 on my appearance. Both haircut and pedicure were necessary but the cost together is a little alarming.
I usually don't do both on the same day and my pedicures usually run around $25 so I'm a little shocked at how much I spent on myself today. I won't let it happen again.
I have a habit of looking around my sweet little apartment or at my cute little car and giving thanks to Dennis who worked so hard all his life. I often feel a bit guilty because it was his labor and not mine that has given me my comfortable life. Today I walked into the apartment, remembered how much I'd just spent on myself and guiltily said "Sorry, Dennis!".
Today I got my hair cut ($30) and then got a pedicure ($41). I have never paid that much for a pedicure in my life!! I need them because callouses build up quickly on my feet and start to hurt if I don't have a pedicure but $41!!!!! So, today I spent $71 on my appearance. Both haircut and pedicure were necessary but the cost together is a little alarming.
I usually don't do both on the same day and my pedicures usually run around $25 so I'm a little shocked at how much I spent on myself today. I won't let it happen again.
I have a habit of looking around my sweet little apartment or at my cute little car and giving thanks to Dennis who worked so hard all his life. I often feel a bit guilty because it was his labor and not mine that has given me my comfortable life. Today I walked into the apartment, remembered how much I'd just spent on myself and guiltily said "Sorry, Dennis!".
Monday, June 15, 2015
Recliner
Okay, so I searched and searched for a 2 arm chaise that I could afford but all were out of stock. Then I decided that I'd settle for a recliner, hopefully one that was burgundy fabric and rocked. Hmmm! It's hard to find them in burgundy.
It's a good thing I don't really need one quickly or I'd probably settle for one in beige...may have to do it yet! Not so bad now that I think about it.
You would think that, with all the stock furniture stores seem to carry, that I wouldn't have so much trouble but it always seems that I can't find something specific that I'm looking for.
When Dennis and I got married we bought the "$399 for 3 rooms" of furniture...livingroom, bedroom, and kitchen! It fell apart quickly. In the mid sixties we splurged on a T.V. in cabinet for $400...a lot of money in those days. I cried for hours after finding a cigarette burn on the top caused by careless Dennis. One more reason to never smoke!
I'm old fashioned and like flowered fabric but I'm being shamed out of it by my grandchildren so the only flowered piece of furniture I have now is the chair I'm looking to replace. You can bet that by the time I buy this new chair in a plain beige, the styles will change and flowers will be back in. Also, after I buy the chair, I'll see tons of burgundy chaise lounges with 2 arms. Darn!
It's a good thing I don't really need one quickly or I'd probably settle for one in beige...may have to do it yet! Not so bad now that I think about it.
You would think that, with all the stock furniture stores seem to carry, that I wouldn't have so much trouble but it always seems that I can't find something specific that I'm looking for.
When Dennis and I got married we bought the "$399 for 3 rooms" of furniture...livingroom, bedroom, and kitchen! It fell apart quickly. In the mid sixties we splurged on a T.V. in cabinet for $400...a lot of money in those days. I cried for hours after finding a cigarette burn on the top caused by careless Dennis. One more reason to never smoke!
I'm old fashioned and like flowered fabric but I'm being shamed out of it by my grandchildren so the only flowered piece of furniture I have now is the chair I'm looking to replace. You can bet that by the time I buy this new chair in a plain beige, the styles will change and flowers will be back in. Also, after I buy the chair, I'll see tons of burgundy chaise lounges with 2 arms. Darn!
Friday, June 12, 2015
Update on Skin Cancer Surgery
I had the stitches out yesterday and already knew the scar was more visible than after the previous surgery done by my dermatologist. She's a genius!
It's only been a bit more than a week since the surgery so there is still a lot of swelling around my lip. Once that goes down and the scar given time to settle, it might all look okay.
My dermatologist wants me to keep the scar covered for the next 3 months with a bandage called "Mepitac". It has some kind of medication on the side that covers the scar but darned if there's anything on the box saying what the medication is. I sort of think my nice dermatologist has shares in the product.
Anyway, the scar actually is less visible today than it was yesterday so either Mepitac or time is responsible. Either way, I won't be sticking a bandage on my face for 3 fiddlin' months!
It's only been a bit more than a week since the surgery so there is still a lot of swelling around my lip. Once that goes down and the scar given time to settle, it might all look okay.
My dermatologist wants me to keep the scar covered for the next 3 months with a bandage called "Mepitac". It has some kind of medication on the side that covers the scar but darned if there's anything on the box saying what the medication is. I sort of think my nice dermatologist has shares in the product.
Anyway, the scar actually is less visible today than it was yesterday so either Mepitac or time is responsible. Either way, I won't be sticking a bandage on my face for 3 fiddlin' months!
Confused Sexual Identity
An article in this morning's newspaper sort of upset me. It was the story of a very young boy whose parents are divorced. The little boy likes pink and girl's toys so the mother encourages him to wear girl's clothing and refers to him as "her". The father burnt the girl's clothing.
If this isn't a little boy who will grow up to have huge mental issues, I don't know what is. Both parents are screwballs, making a young boy make monumental decisions about his sexual identity based on the child's choices of toys and color. How ridiculous!
I was a major player in the lives of my grandsons and saw how some enjoyed playing with dolls. So what? Their father and grandfather were repelled by the idea but all my boys grew up to be heterosexual men. My daughter loved playing with toy cars and trucks and she's a heterosexual woman. A child's choice of toys or colors does not have anything to do with their sexual identity but, if a parent makes a big deal out of it, it will confuse the child so they don't know what the heck they are.
It's true that most parents begin early to push our little girls to play with feminine toys. We push our little boys to play with more masculine toys. If left to their own choices, children will simply choose what looks like more fun for them.
Also in today's newspaper, there is a large billboard showing a half naked person (sex undefined), put there to make us all aware of people who are neither male nor female. Do we really need this or are we having it shoved down our throats by a small minority of people who can't decide what their sexual identity is going to be?
I don't much care about the adults who want to live as a different sex from the one they were born with but I do worry about the influence that mother has on her little boy. It seems there's no way she won't confuse the hell out of that child and he's the one who will grow up to suffer the consequences. My heart does go out to his father who is in a no-win situation.
Bruce Jenner's sexual identity change has made the news as though it's a wonderful thing he is doing. Crap! He's not a woman no matter how much cosmetic surgery or make-up he has. He's a man who feels he'll be happier living as a pseudo-woman. Good for him...but it's not normal. Jenner is an adult who is free to make this choice but the little boy in question is a child under the possibly destructive care of his parents.
People are too quick to jump on bandwagons and might take a little boy's preference for the color pink as a sign he's really a little girl in a boy's body. So very sad and so very stupid. I hope so much that little boy survives his crazy parents but he's going to need some kind of counseling to do it.
If this isn't a little boy who will grow up to have huge mental issues, I don't know what is. Both parents are screwballs, making a young boy make monumental decisions about his sexual identity based on the child's choices of toys and color. How ridiculous!
I was a major player in the lives of my grandsons and saw how some enjoyed playing with dolls. So what? Their father and grandfather were repelled by the idea but all my boys grew up to be heterosexual men. My daughter loved playing with toy cars and trucks and she's a heterosexual woman. A child's choice of toys or colors does not have anything to do with their sexual identity but, if a parent makes a big deal out of it, it will confuse the child so they don't know what the heck they are.
It's true that most parents begin early to push our little girls to play with feminine toys. We push our little boys to play with more masculine toys. If left to their own choices, children will simply choose what looks like more fun for them.
Also in today's newspaper, there is a large billboard showing a half naked person (sex undefined), put there to make us all aware of people who are neither male nor female. Do we really need this or are we having it shoved down our throats by a small minority of people who can't decide what their sexual identity is going to be?
I don't much care about the adults who want to live as a different sex from the one they were born with but I do worry about the influence that mother has on her little boy. It seems there's no way she won't confuse the hell out of that child and he's the one who will grow up to suffer the consequences. My heart does go out to his father who is in a no-win situation.
Bruce Jenner's sexual identity change has made the news as though it's a wonderful thing he is doing. Crap! He's not a woman no matter how much cosmetic surgery or make-up he has. He's a man who feels he'll be happier living as a pseudo-woman. Good for him...but it's not normal. Jenner is an adult who is free to make this choice but the little boy in question is a child under the possibly destructive care of his parents.
People are too quick to jump on bandwagons and might take a little boy's preference for the color pink as a sign he's really a little girl in a boy's body. So very sad and so very stupid. I hope so much that little boy survives his crazy parents but he's going to need some kind of counseling to do it.
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Why Are We Here?
This is probably an easy question for religious people to answer but not so easy for those of us who aren't. We have to look at our world and try to figure it all our with our pathetic knowledge of the universe.
I do think we're here for a purpose because anything else is illogical. That one person (God) sitting up in the sky somewhere is responsible for everything that happens on earth makes no sense. Religious people like to imagine that their god does only good and that the devil (another silly depicted person) causes all the evil. I say we human beings are responsible for all the good and evil that happens on earth.
I'm agnostic, not atheist, because I understand that none of us really know what is what so I leave my options open to when I will know...hope it happens at some point!
I've mostly learned what makes me happy. Being gentle and kind raises me up while being a bitch drags me down where I don't like it and don't want to stay. I'm way past the age where I care to impress anyone so my actions are as natural as they'll ever be. I do what makes me happy and doesn't hurt anyone else. That's where I'm in my comfort zone.
Yes, I do believe we're here for a reason but what it is I don't know. It just doesn't make sense that we live for a finite number of years and then disappear. Logic tells us that our life force carries on in some form. How we've lived this life must have some influence on what comes in the afterlife. It only makes sense.
The closest I've come to seeing what happens after death is when my husband died and I saw something like a mist burst from him and fill the room. It solidified my belief that we don't just disappear after death. The life force, or soul, is an entity that must exist forever. It's interesting.
I'll be 75 years old in August so my time left on earth is pretty limited. I could have a day or I could have 20 years so I have to make sure each day is a positive one. I've spent too many days in my life that were negative, mostly by my own doing, so I'm going to do my best to make my remaining ones pleasant. When you're happy it spreads to those who come in contact with you so my plan is to spread a little joy before I leave.
Why are we here? Who knows, but we should make the best of it while it lasts.
I do think we're here for a purpose because anything else is illogical. That one person (God) sitting up in the sky somewhere is responsible for everything that happens on earth makes no sense. Religious people like to imagine that their god does only good and that the devil (another silly depicted person) causes all the evil. I say we human beings are responsible for all the good and evil that happens on earth.
I'm agnostic, not atheist, because I understand that none of us really know what is what so I leave my options open to when I will know...hope it happens at some point!
I've mostly learned what makes me happy. Being gentle and kind raises me up while being a bitch drags me down where I don't like it and don't want to stay. I'm way past the age where I care to impress anyone so my actions are as natural as they'll ever be. I do what makes me happy and doesn't hurt anyone else. That's where I'm in my comfort zone.
Yes, I do believe we're here for a reason but what it is I don't know. It just doesn't make sense that we live for a finite number of years and then disappear. Logic tells us that our life force carries on in some form. How we've lived this life must have some influence on what comes in the afterlife. It only makes sense.
The closest I've come to seeing what happens after death is when my husband died and I saw something like a mist burst from him and fill the room. It solidified my belief that we don't just disappear after death. The life force, or soul, is an entity that must exist forever. It's interesting.
I'll be 75 years old in August so my time left on earth is pretty limited. I could have a day or I could have 20 years so I have to make sure each day is a positive one. I've spent too many days in my life that were negative, mostly by my own doing, so I'm going to do my best to make my remaining ones pleasant. When you're happy it spreads to those who come in contact with you so my plan is to spread a little joy before I leave.
Why are we here? Who knows, but we should make the best of it while it lasts.
Monday, June 08, 2015
Healthy Attitude
One day many of us will be either a widow or a widower. It's a matter of fact and the way we deal with it should be considered no matter how difficult it is to imagine.
It's understandable for a widow or widower to fall to pieces in the beginning of this journey but we should all aim for a healthier attitude. Our lives can continue without our mates and they can be happy ones. If our mates cared about us at all they would want us to gain strength and purpose to finish out our own lives in peace and happiness.
I'm a widow whose husband was the "doer" in our family. When he passed away I discovered just how much he did around the house that I wasn't even aware of. Those things still needed doing and I wasn't physically or mentally capable of doing it all so I found me a handyman. Warning, ladies, a good and honest handyman/woman is not easy to find so you just might have to try a few before finding the one that is right for you. I think the best option is to sell your house and move into an apartment or condo and then you don't have to worry about finding one at all. My opinion only!
To a widow or widower...stay busy with hobbies, family, and friends. The more people you socialize with, the quicker you'll come out of your grief and be able to function normally. Grieving alone is a horribly debilitating state of mind.
Feel comfortable to talk about your mate but don't dwell on him/her to the exclusion of other interests. You'll need to rebuild the way you live your life but do it in small, purposeful steps.
Life has always been what you choose to make of it and being a widow or widower is no different. Always choose to be happy and allow your grief to dissipate into fond memories. You still have the rest of your life to live and it really can be a positive time.
It's understandable for a widow or widower to fall to pieces in the beginning of this journey but we should all aim for a healthier attitude. Our lives can continue without our mates and they can be happy ones. If our mates cared about us at all they would want us to gain strength and purpose to finish out our own lives in peace and happiness.
I'm a widow whose husband was the "doer" in our family. When he passed away I discovered just how much he did around the house that I wasn't even aware of. Those things still needed doing and I wasn't physically or mentally capable of doing it all so I found me a handyman. Warning, ladies, a good and honest handyman/woman is not easy to find so you just might have to try a few before finding the one that is right for you. I think the best option is to sell your house and move into an apartment or condo and then you don't have to worry about finding one at all. My opinion only!
To a widow or widower...stay busy with hobbies, family, and friends. The more people you socialize with, the quicker you'll come out of your grief and be able to function normally. Grieving alone is a horribly debilitating state of mind.
Feel comfortable to talk about your mate but don't dwell on him/her to the exclusion of other interests. You'll need to rebuild the way you live your life but do it in small, purposeful steps.
Life has always been what you choose to make of it and being a widow or widower is no different. Always choose to be happy and allow your grief to dissipate into fond memories. You still have the rest of your life to live and it really can be a positive time.
Sunday, June 07, 2015
#1 Grandson is 31!
31 years have passed since Nick was born and there has never been a moment when he disappointed us. He is, has been, and always will be a treasure.
Kim and her husband tried for a few years to get pregnant without success so she took treatments to enhance her chances. They didn't work but a year later she did get pregnant and I cried my eyes out with happiness when she told us.
Nick was a huge baby...11.1 pounds when born. Kim wasn't a heavy girl so she was all tummy while pregnant. We knew he'd be big but not that big!
I've adored this child from day one and adore him just as much today. Funny how much love we're capable of because I've loved each additional grandchild and greatgrandchild just the same. Apparently the ability to love has no limit.
Happy 31st birthday, my Nicholas!
Kim and her husband tried for a few years to get pregnant without success so she took treatments to enhance her chances. They didn't work but a year later she did get pregnant and I cried my eyes out with happiness when she told us.
Nick was a huge baby...11.1 pounds when born. Kim wasn't a heavy girl so she was all tummy while pregnant. We knew he'd be big but not that big!
I've adored this child from day one and adore him just as much today. Funny how much love we're capable of because I've loved each additional grandchild and greatgrandchild just the same. Apparently the ability to love has no limit.
Happy 31st birthday, my Nicholas!
Saturday, June 06, 2015
I'm An Old Soul
Yup, it's true, I'm an old soul born at the dawn of time. I took a test on Facebook (has to be scientifically accurate, right?) and found this out.
I have a philosophy that we keep coming back until we learn what we're here for so the fact that I've been coming back since the dawn of time means I'm a damned slow learner.
I'm not impressed.
I have a philosophy that we keep coming back until we learn what we're here for so the fact that I've been coming back since the dawn of time means I'm a damned slow learner.
I'm not impressed.
Elementary School Curriculum
It's not my business any more how our children are taught in school but I do have my opinions. I hate the idea of giving our little ones too much sex education because I want to keep them innocent as long as possible. I'm not happy that too much school time is spent teaching them religion and French. I honestly believe that time would be better spent teaching them to spell!
Now they're removing cursive writing from the curriculum. So, what will they replace that with? Our children are already learning math with a calculator and there is spell check on the computers they use. I see them as adults in the future unable to solve problems in their heads!
If all these changes meant our children were being better educated, I'd just let it be but I see advertisements in stores and even on T.V. that are misspelled. Cashiers can't make proper change from a sale if you try to add some coins after it's rung in the cash register.
I remember when the school board decided that teachers should stop teaching the little ones to read phonetically but to use only flash cards. We all know how devastating that was to a whole generation of children (now in their 50's) who probably still have trouble reading.
The school boards have way too much power and mistakes by them have consequences that go on forever. In the case of the new sex education curriculum, the school boards were able to convince enough free thinking (not necessarily sensible thinking) parents that their children should learn early about gay unions and sexual practices. Since when does an 8 year old child need to be taught about gays?? I know they exist but so does polygamy, rape, and incest. Just how much grade 2 school time should be diverted to learning about sexual practices?
Anyway, I'm an old gal with more rigid beliefs than parents of today. But, what they allow their children to learn at an early age will probably be instrumental in causing those little children to practice adult behavior before they're intellectually ready for it.
We reap what we sow.
Now they're removing cursive writing from the curriculum. So, what will they replace that with? Our children are already learning math with a calculator and there is spell check on the computers they use. I see them as adults in the future unable to solve problems in their heads!
If all these changes meant our children were being better educated, I'd just let it be but I see advertisements in stores and even on T.V. that are misspelled. Cashiers can't make proper change from a sale if you try to add some coins after it's rung in the cash register.
I remember when the school board decided that teachers should stop teaching the little ones to read phonetically but to use only flash cards. We all know how devastating that was to a whole generation of children (now in their 50's) who probably still have trouble reading.
The school boards have way too much power and mistakes by them have consequences that go on forever. In the case of the new sex education curriculum, the school boards were able to convince enough free thinking (not necessarily sensible thinking) parents that their children should learn early about gay unions and sexual practices. Since when does an 8 year old child need to be taught about gays?? I know they exist but so does polygamy, rape, and incest. Just how much grade 2 school time should be diverted to learning about sexual practices?
Anyway, I'm an old gal with more rigid beliefs than parents of today. But, what they allow their children to learn at an early age will probably be instrumental in causing those little children to practice adult behavior before they're intellectually ready for it.
We reap what we sow.
Friday, June 05, 2015
Deciding To Be Happy
When the surgeon walked into the operating room on Wednesday he was singing. I mentioned that he must be a very happy man and he said he was. I then said that we can always start our day by making the choice to be happy and he asked me how I started my day. I said I always choose to be happy.
Some of my days fail the test, though, but I'm only human. When I'm frightened or deeply worried it isn't easy to be happy even if that's what I'm consciously choosing. I guess my point is that most of our days can be happy ones if we choose it to be so.
My singing surgeon was a joy to hear. He wasn't going to be operating on me with misery in his heart and would most certainly do a better job because of his happy state of mind. Don't we all??
This is how I see today: Kim is healing and getting better every day. Me, too! Matt's finances seem to be in order now. All of my adult grandchildren have jobs. All of my children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren are pretty darned healthy. We have a family filled with love and caring for each other. I'm happily ensconced in my sweet little apartment.
When we consider all our blessings, we can handle the bad things that slip in now and then.
Some of my days fail the test, though, but I'm only human. When I'm frightened or deeply worried it isn't easy to be happy even if that's what I'm consciously choosing. I guess my point is that most of our days can be happy ones if we choose it to be so.
My singing surgeon was a joy to hear. He wasn't going to be operating on me with misery in his heart and would most certainly do a better job because of his happy state of mind. Don't we all??
This is how I see today: Kim is healing and getting better every day. Me, too! Matt's finances seem to be in order now. All of my adult grandchildren have jobs. All of my children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren are pretty darned healthy. We have a family filled with love and caring for each other. I'm happily ensconced in my sweet little apartment.
When we consider all our blessings, we can handle the bad things that slip in now and then.
Thursday, June 04, 2015
Danger of Skin Cancer
I come from the generation where we had no idea of the dangers of sunbathing without sunscreen. We enhanced our exposure to sunlight by applying baby oil to our skin or nothing at all. Today, my generation is paying the price for that lack of knowledge.
My skin is pale and freckled and will burn easily. Yesterday at the Mohs clinic, I noticed how many skin cancer patients have a similar skin type but I'm sure that isn't the only type that can develop skin cancer. We're maybe the most at risk, though.
The first spot I noticed developed on my lower chest and I thought it was a wart. My family doctor quickly identified it as skin cancer and immediately sent me to a dermatologist/skin cancer specialist. The spot was surgically removed and never came back but it wasn't long before another spot on my forehead at the hairline showed up. This, too, was surgically removed and so far has not returned.
The most horrific spot was on my lower lip and I chose to have it destroyed with radiation treatments. It was a horrible, ugly, but not very painful experience but the spot is gone.
A spot showed up on my left lower arm and had to be surgically removed twice. So far so good.
Another spot was on my cheek beside my nose...surgically removed. The next was by my shoulder...surgically removed.
Then the last spot appeared on my cheek between my nose and lip...surgically removed twice before having Mohs to completely remove it.
I've resigned myself to knowing I'm prone to skin cancer and another could appear at any time. I also know that it isn't the end of the world because both basal and squamous skin cancers are fairly easily dealt with. The importance is to recognize them and see your dermatologist regularly if you do have one. It's not pleasant but it's not deadly, either.
The biggest loss I've suffered from having the skin cancers is that I no longer can enjoy the feel of sunshine on my skin. It worries me now and that's a shame. I believe the skin damage was done in my younger years but I still feel in danger if I'm exposed to too much sunshine.
Skin cancer is not the worst thing that can happen to you but it's not to be taken lightly, either.
My skin is pale and freckled and will burn easily. Yesterday at the Mohs clinic, I noticed how many skin cancer patients have a similar skin type but I'm sure that isn't the only type that can develop skin cancer. We're maybe the most at risk, though.
The first spot I noticed developed on my lower chest and I thought it was a wart. My family doctor quickly identified it as skin cancer and immediately sent me to a dermatologist/skin cancer specialist. The spot was surgically removed and never came back but it wasn't long before another spot on my forehead at the hairline showed up. This, too, was surgically removed and so far has not returned.
The most horrific spot was on my lower lip and I chose to have it destroyed with radiation treatments. It was a horrible, ugly, but not very painful experience but the spot is gone.
A spot showed up on my left lower arm and had to be surgically removed twice. So far so good.
Another spot was on my cheek beside my nose...surgically removed. The next was by my shoulder...surgically removed.
Then the last spot appeared on my cheek between my nose and lip...surgically removed twice before having Mohs to completely remove it.
I've resigned myself to knowing I'm prone to skin cancer and another could appear at any time. I also know that it isn't the end of the world because both basal and squamous skin cancers are fairly easily dealt with. The importance is to recognize them and see your dermatologist regularly if you do have one. It's not pleasant but it's not deadly, either.
The biggest loss I've suffered from having the skin cancers is that I no longer can enjoy the feel of sunshine on my skin. It worries me now and that's a shame. I believe the skin damage was done in my younger years but I still feel in danger if I'm exposed to too much sunshine.
Skin cancer is not the worst thing that can happen to you but it's not to be taken lightly, either.
Wednesday, June 03, 2015
My China Picture
I really love the way it turned out and it's a pretty reminder of my special trip to China, a place I never expected to be able to go but Dennis and I went there on business all those years ago. What a wonderful experience!
It's still wrapped in shrink wrap so that's why it shows the camera flash. I guess there's some way for me to remove that with the computer but I'm not going to bother right now. I hurt and need to lay down.
Mohs Surgery Done
Cindy and I left at 6 A.M. this morning to make sure we were at Women's College Hospital in Toronto on time for my 8:45 A.M. appointment. We got there 1 1/2 hours early but you never know how bad traffic will get there. I hate driving to and in Toronto!!
We checked in and were sent to the waiting room where about 5 or 6 other patients and their family members/friends sat. Names were called and patients went out only to return about 20 minutes later with huge bandages on wherever their skin cancers were. This is how the procedure works...the spot is frozen and the surgeon removes a sample for biopsy; you're sent back to the waiting room for about an hour while it is biopsied; if cancer cells are found on the edges they take a deeper sample and you're sent back to wait again. If no cancer cells are detected on the edges you are stitched up and can go home.
My first sample seemed to show no cancer cells at all but there was evidence of skin cancer on the surface of my face. When I was called back in they took another, deeper sample just to be sure and then stitched me up. I was so thankful that it was in the exact spot my dermatologist had used before.
I'm a worrier and had worried for weeks that the surgeon would cut my whole face up taking out pounds of cancer cells. Sounds stupid but that's how my mind works. I am so very happy I was wrong and that the surgery is over but I'd do it all again if another skin cancer popped up. I've had 7 of them so I'm prone to get more, apparently.
Skin cancer is not to be ignored but it's one of the easiest cancers to cure or control. The 3 forms are basal, squamous, and melanoma. Mine was squamous and therefore deeper than the basal which is usually just on the surface. Melanoma is deeper than squamous and much more serious.
It doesn't make sense to me that we Ontarians have only 3 surgeons in the whole province that do Mohs surgery. Mohs is the only kind of skin cancer surgery done in the States and you know it's done properly the first time you have surgery. Here in Canada, the dermatologist will often be the first person to try to remove it surgically but they don't have the equipment to do the biopsy right in their office. If cancer cells remain, it's another visit, another surgery, and another 2 week wait to see if they got it all. Very inefficient.
I hate having these skin cancers but I'm ever thankful I don't have a worse kind of cancer. I'm grateful for what is good in my life.
We checked in and were sent to the waiting room where about 5 or 6 other patients and their family members/friends sat. Names were called and patients went out only to return about 20 minutes later with huge bandages on wherever their skin cancers were. This is how the procedure works...the spot is frozen and the surgeon removes a sample for biopsy; you're sent back to the waiting room for about an hour while it is biopsied; if cancer cells are found on the edges they take a deeper sample and you're sent back to wait again. If no cancer cells are detected on the edges you are stitched up and can go home.
My first sample seemed to show no cancer cells at all but there was evidence of skin cancer on the surface of my face. When I was called back in they took another, deeper sample just to be sure and then stitched me up. I was so thankful that it was in the exact spot my dermatologist had used before.
I'm a worrier and had worried for weeks that the surgeon would cut my whole face up taking out pounds of cancer cells. Sounds stupid but that's how my mind works. I am so very happy I was wrong and that the surgery is over but I'd do it all again if another skin cancer popped up. I've had 7 of them so I'm prone to get more, apparently.
Skin cancer is not to be ignored but it's one of the easiest cancers to cure or control. The 3 forms are basal, squamous, and melanoma. Mine was squamous and therefore deeper than the basal which is usually just on the surface. Melanoma is deeper than squamous and much more serious.
It doesn't make sense to me that we Ontarians have only 3 surgeons in the whole province that do Mohs surgery. Mohs is the only kind of skin cancer surgery done in the States and you know it's done properly the first time you have surgery. Here in Canada, the dermatologist will often be the first person to try to remove it surgically but they don't have the equipment to do the biopsy right in their office. If cancer cells remain, it's another visit, another surgery, and another 2 week wait to see if they got it all. Very inefficient.
I hate having these skin cancers but I'm ever thankful I don't have a worse kind of cancer. I'm grateful for what is good in my life.
Tuesday, June 02, 2015
Bad Drivers
We all see our share of bad drivers on the road every time we venture out. It's always a riddle to me why anyone would wield their car in traffic as though they're invincible, though. They tailgate and veer wildly out to cross lanes as though there's no chance of colliding with other cars. Kim said she thinks drivers like this have never been in an accident and are totally unaware how quickly one can happen.
An accident caused by them will usually end in a fine, loss of their vehicle while it's being repaired, car insurance hike or cancellation, and bodily harm to themselves or others. How can playing stupid with your car be worth any of this?
I'm no angel in a car but I don't tailgate or change lanes unsafely. I do drive about 10 miles over the speed limit but still get passed regularly by cars going faster than mine. I don't hog the passing lane, either. Slow drivers who do that probably cause as many accidents as speeders.
I love my car and the freedom it gives me to travel wherever my heart desires. But I'm always aware that I'm propelling a potential deadly weapon and do it with safety in mind.
Cell phone use while driving makes no sense. It's imperative that drivers keep their eyes on the road and not reading or sending texts. I've even seen people reading a map and curling their hair while driving. Idiots!
Now to complain about the construction all over my city! I understand repairs have to be done but why does it take so long to complete some of them? Drive by any road construction site (or any construction site) and you'll see 1 guy working and 10 watching. One day all businesses are going to have to be efficient and not feeding at the public trough!
An accident caused by them will usually end in a fine, loss of their vehicle while it's being repaired, car insurance hike or cancellation, and bodily harm to themselves or others. How can playing stupid with your car be worth any of this?
I'm no angel in a car but I don't tailgate or change lanes unsafely. I do drive about 10 miles over the speed limit but still get passed regularly by cars going faster than mine. I don't hog the passing lane, either. Slow drivers who do that probably cause as many accidents as speeders.
I love my car and the freedom it gives me to travel wherever my heart desires. But I'm always aware that I'm propelling a potential deadly weapon and do it with safety in mind.
Cell phone use while driving makes no sense. It's imperative that drivers keep their eyes on the road and not reading or sending texts. I've even seen people reading a map and curling their hair while driving. Idiots!
Now to complain about the construction all over my city! I understand repairs have to be done but why does it take so long to complete some of them? Drive by any road construction site (or any construction site) and you'll see 1 guy working and 10 watching. One day all businesses are going to have to be efficient and not feeding at the public trough!
Monday, June 01, 2015
My New Poster
The picture seems a little small for the spot where it's hung so I might move it somewhere else. I have a few walls that need decorating so there are choices.
I just had another picture plaqued but it's still in the car...I had too much to carry up today so I'll bring it in tomorrow. It's a really big one that Dennis and I got in China in 1989. It came on a scroll and, because of the extra length, it never did get hung. I decided to have only the picture and not the whole piece plaqued and it looks gorgeous. Because it's been moved around so much there were a few creases but they're all gone now. Excellent job by "Staples"!
The new one is also a floral scene with a few Chinese characters on it. I wish I knew what they meant. In any case, it turned out very well and it probably will be hung on a wall in my bedroom.
My next print/poster project will be 4 Hubble photos. I like wall decor that makes me smile when I look at it.
The Weather
Everyone complains about the weather...it's too hot, too cold, too wet, too dry. So far this spring we've had days of lovely warm/hot weather followed by darned cold weather. I don't like the cold in the winter and I really hate it in the other seasons!
Yesterday was one miserable day. It was cold, windy, and rainy. And I had to go out in it because it was the day of Gary's memorial service. The memorial service was truly wonderful, though. I met and hugged relatives I seldom see and it was lovely how many family and friends came to the service. Most of the family went back to Faye's for a while but I only stayed an hour. I just wanted to get home and enjoy the solitude. These family occasions are nice but I can only take so much of crowds and then I have to get away from it.
Anyway, Shelley, John, Kim, Faye, Valerie, and I are going out for brunch this morning and then Shelley and John have to leave for home. I'm taking Kim for bloodwork and then will come back home for a nap. I was up real early this morning.
Just 2 days until my surgery and I'm worried, fearful, and resigned to handle it the best I can.
Yesterday was one miserable day. It was cold, windy, and rainy. And I had to go out in it because it was the day of Gary's memorial service. The memorial service was truly wonderful, though. I met and hugged relatives I seldom see and it was lovely how many family and friends came to the service. Most of the family went back to Faye's for a while but I only stayed an hour. I just wanted to get home and enjoy the solitude. These family occasions are nice but I can only take so much of crowds and then I have to get away from it.
Anyway, Shelley, John, Kim, Faye, Valerie, and I are going out for brunch this morning and then Shelley and John have to leave for home. I'm taking Kim for bloodwork and then will come back home for a nap. I was up real early this morning.
Just 2 days until my surgery and I'm worried, fearful, and resigned to handle it the best I can.
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