Ma's Coffee Shoppe

Wednesday's Laugh

2010-03-24T09:51:00.001-04:00

I was due for an appointment with the gynecologist later in the week.
Early one morning, I received a call from the doctor's office to tell me that I
had been rescheduled for that morning at 9:30 am. I had only just packed
everyone off to work and school, and it was already around 8:45 AM . The
trip to his office took about 35 minutes, so I didn't have any time to
spare. As most women do, I like to take a little extra effort over hygiene
when making such visits, but this time I wasn't going to be able to
make the full effort.

So, I rushed upstairs, threw off my pajamas, wet the washcloth that was
sitting next to the sink, and gave myself a quick was h in that area to
make sure I was at least presentable. I threw the washcloth in the clothes
basket, put on some clothes, hopped in the car and raced to my
appointment.

I was in the waiting room for only a few minutes when I was called in.
Knowing the procedure, as I'm sure you do, I undressed, hopped up on the
table, looked over at the other side of the room and pretended that I
was in Paris or some other place a million miles away.

I was a little surprised when the doctor said, 'My, we have made an extra
effort this morning, haven't we?' I didn't respond. After the appointment,
I heaved a sigh of relief and went home. The rest of the day was
normal ... Some shopping, cleaning, cooking. After school when my 6 year
old daughter was playing, she called out from the bathroom, 'Mommy, where's my
washcloth?'

I told her to get another one from the cupboard.

She replied, 'No, I need the one that was here by the sink, it had all my
glitter and sparkles saved inside it.'

Never going back to that doctor. Ever.

( With thanks to Kat for making my day start with laughter.)

Grandpa Horton Rolls Up The Rim

2010-02-28T19:33:00.015-05:00

Grandpa Horton : I have a secret honeypoo. I stole Ma's laptop again .
Martha : Hehehehehhee ...you're such a bad boy !

Grandpa Horton : Sweetie, I feel like heading down to the shop for another coffee. What about you?
Martha : We have only been there 10 times in one day Big Daddy ..
Grandpa Horton : I know darlin' but its the beginning of Roll Up The Rim and you know how this old bugger likes free stuff.
Martha : I feel like I am on coffee overload .. all I can see is Tim Horton cups everywhere .
Grandpa Horton : Let's get rollin'..... I feel like a winner.
Martha : You are a winner Poppykins.

"Grandpa Horton thinks he is the only one who knows how to type. I have been sitting on Ma's lap for 2 years and have learned a few new tricks. This the news according to Wiz : Roll Up the Rim has 40 Toyota RAV4's, 100 $10,000 Cash Prizes , 1,000 Toshiba Netbooks,
25,000 Tim Cards, and over 31,000 ,000 Food Prizes . I don't drink coffee but I eat anything so feel free to mail me all your food prizes. Time for a wiz......
Your bud (and Ma's ),
Wizard

Who Is This Crazy Lady?

2010-02-03T10:48:00.011-05:00

I am sure that is what my neighbors were thinking if they happened to spot me yesterday morning at 6 a.m. chasing my German Shepherd Karma in the backyard snow with a foil pie plate, little Yorkie Wiz ball nipping at my heels. Let me backtrack. For months now , Karma has developed an ongoing allergy problem which will turn into a life long battle unless she mysteriously outgrows it the way she came into it. In order to rule out an UTI ( Urinary Tract Infection), it was my solemn duty to capture the first concentrated mid stream dog pee of the morning. The night before, I prepared like a soldier in battle . My winter parka , boots, pie plate and plastic container for the vet transport were all in close proximity for my morning pee mission. At 6 a.m. Tuesday morning I donned my battle apparel and headed outside to complete my purpose with the determination of a true soldier. Keep in mind I was still half asleep and in my pajamas. Karma and Wizzy were extemely happy to see me outside at this undogly hour and promptly decided that a game of chase me was the order of the day. Karma became the leader taking a mad dash with her toy in her mouth, I followed with the tin plate , and Wizzy followed the two of us yapping happily to be in this unusal morning parade. By the time Karma squatted I was too much of a distance away to retrieve the yellow gold . She stopped in mid stream when I yelled at her "Noooooooooooooo.....". Both dogs froze ,( I was frozen) and looked at me in shock. I could almost read their devious little minds ("What's with her ? Aren't we suppose to do this pee thing outside ?")
I knew what I had to do. I marched indoors like the trooper I am and came back with Karma's leash . I leashed my patient and took her promptly back to said urine area and repeated my bathroom command of "Hurry up!". Like clockwork, Karma released and I captured her urine sample in the foil pie plate which was tranferred to the disposable plastic for the animal hospital.
Both dogs proceeded inside with me. Mission accomplished.
Later on that day I found out the postive news that Karma did not have any urine infection.
Wiz was happy to be around all the wizzing....and as for me ,

I am forever labelled as the neighborhood crazy lady.

Christmas Concert Timmins 2009 Sons of Maxwell

2009-12-17T07:09:00.002-05:00

Sons of Maxwell Timmins 2009

2009-12-17T07:08:00.001-05:00

On The Twelfth Day Of Christmas The Sons Of Maxwell Came To Town

2009-12-15T08:24:00.018-05:00

On Saturday evening the twelfth day of December, I shared the joy of Christmas in song when once again we were able to experience the sounds of the season with The Sons Of Maxwell. Don and Dave Carroll are two Timmins brothers, who with all of their fame abroad, still return home to their roots every holiday season to perform a Christmas concert for the townspeople. The concert is held in the same high school where they attended classes and many friends and relatives can be seen cheering them on from the audience. Maxwell and Sharon are the parents who take immense pride in the continued success of their two sons. Dave Carroll lost his luggage last year and in true songwriter style made his complaints known in a self produced musical video gone viral on You Tube. Seen by millions, United Breaks Guitars was an instant hit.
Don Carroll is the romantic crooner that captures hearts with his amazing smile and voice.
We joined in musical unison when Don sang Let It Snow though the weather outside was frightful, none of us seemed to care. Individually, they have achieved success with their own distinctive CDs. Together, they are a powerhouse duo that has produced a multitude of albums with a unique style all their own.
It takes a lot of organization , support, sponsorship and one super Mom for the concert to come together and be the sold out event it is year after year.
In the spirit of Christmas giving, I offer you this front row seat... as it was so kindly offered to us.
Enjoy.
http://sonsofmaxwell.com/
http://www.davecarrollmusic.com/

Let It Snow with Don Carroll

Johnny Cash Medley by The Sons Of Maxwell

Don't Stress Me Out ( To The Tune of Don't Fence Me In )

2009-12-07T14:23:00.004-05:00

( With my apologies to Bing ) On Holiday Shopping:

Oh, give me stores , lots of stores under malls above,
Don't stress me out.
Let me shop through the wide open aisles that I love,
Don't stress me out.
Let me be by myself in the evenin' please ,
Listen to the children at the Christmas trees,
Don't elf me off and I ask you please,
Don't stress me out.

Just turn me loose, let me waddle in the Walmart ,
Underneath my own shoe laces,
Elbow my way through the masses, let me flounder to the counter,
Till I see the cashier's faces,
Don't elf me off.

I want to shop for the sales when the year commences,
And gaze at the prices till I lose my senses
And I can't look at labels and I can't stand menses,
Don't stress me out.
Stop.
Santa, don't you stress me out.

Ma's Photos , Frost's Poetry

2009-11-30T11:10:00.005-05:00

Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening

Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.

Happy Cake & Candle Day To Natalie

2009-11-25T07:47:00.004-05:00

Today is the day I gave birth to my second daughter. It seems like yesterday that I held her in my arms and was overcome with emotion in the joy of her arrival into my world.The years go by and still I am overcome with the joy of her arrival each time she visits. Whether she was digging dead goldfish up for show and tell or flashing that megawatt smile of hers, I always knew she was something special.
I could not be prouder of her radio accomplishments but more than that, I am proud of the person she has grown into ..respectful and compassionate towards all life, loving and giving to others. With her grandfather's sense of humor and her own unique facial expressions, Natalie can bring out the laughter in anyone when they need it the most.
Thirty four years ago today around dinnertime, I will remember her arrival with my own secret smile and a heart full of love.
Happy Birthday Natalie.

Remember The Heroes

2009-11-11T08:16:00.003-05:00

You will not recognize their faces. You will not know their names. You may not know which country they died in or how they lost their lives.
You can honor their memory and remember the heroes who gave you freedom today.
Bow your head for our veterans at the 11th hour of the 11th day on the 11th month.
Lest we forget. Never.

The Red and White

2009-11-10T09:54:00.005-05:00

For the brave men and women who keep us free :

Harvey McPhee was my father
Harvey served in World War Two
Just like him they were all young men
Lord knows what they went through.
I remember on Remembrance Day
Dad saluted those who fought and died
I can’t imagine what he was thinking
When I saw the tears in my father’s eyes.


This country these days it seems
Is not proud as it should be
Do we care about our Heroes anymore.
Do we take the time to thank a soldier
For everything they do.
Have we forgotten those brave souls who fought and died
For the Red and White

I knew a man who served in Korea
He came back a different man
He went over for his country
To fight in a foreign land
He took to pills and the bottle
To numb his nightmares and his pain
He went to war barely 19
Bob Archer was his name



This country these days it seems
Is not as proud as it used to be
Do we care about our Heroes anymore
Do we take the time to thank a soldier
For everything they do
Have we forgotten those poor souls who fought and died
For the Red and White

Coporal Jamie Murphy
Just 26 from Newfoundland
Was days away from coming home
When he was killed in Afghanistan
He never had a hope in hell
Al-Qaida bomber took his life
So far away from his home, on Green Route Road
That solider died for the Red and White

This country sometimes,
Makes me so damn mad I could cry
Cause we never thank our heros enough anymore
How many of us thank a soldier for everything they do
We can’t forget all those who serve who sacrifice
All for the Red and White

Lest we forget our heros, who fought and died,
For the Red and White

For the Red and White.

Julian Austin on 12-10-2006

How I Met Your Mother @ Tim Hortons

2009-10-18T19:38:00.005-04:00

It is no secret that Tim Hortons has been invading the United States for over a decade now and tomorrow night they reach their prime when Tim Hortons is the primary backdrop for the CBS sitcom "How I Met Your Mother."
Although I am not a fan of the show, I am a fan of Tim Hortons and I will be watching this episode at 8p.m. local time on Monday October 19th ...which is tomorrow night for all of you who are lost in space with the boy in the balloon.
Apparently this show was nominated for an Emmy award this year for best comedy.
Though Tim Hortons is not in the storyline , the subliminal advertising is a a subtle way of invading the American mind to try our coffee and leave the dunking zone behind.
The best part of the whole deal is that Neil Patrick Harris ( a.k.a. Doogie Howser) will be the actor featured in the fake Timmies.
From a marketing perspective Tim Hortons on prime time T.V. is a definite winner.
( " I would like to thank my managers, my staff , my customers , my family , my dogs for giving me this award for best dam coffee in the entire world ....exit stage right ".)

The Art of the Pee Handstand or The World Is My Toilet According To Wizzy

2009-09-08T15:39:00.006-04:00

The blogger heading may be the longest title I have written for a post. I just could not decide so you got both of them. Those of you who follow my musings are aware that my little yorkie has luxating patella which is a fancy terminology for dislocating kneecaps due to hereditary problems and a bad breeder who shall remain nameless. I have discussed the surgery with my vet many times. After much research,we have both come to the conclusion that we will delay the operation until such time it effects his mobility or it becomes too painful for him. Wizzy can run like the wind, never cries, and can jump like a trooper. You would never know he has a knee impediment unless you watched him hop, skip and slide the bone back in place.( This drives me crazy as I have a long time knee phobia of my own). My little lover has adapted to his weaker leg in the most peculiar way. Wizard loves his walks. The world is his toilet. He wants the neighborhood to know he is around the town. He has his favorite posts and hydrants and loves to stop at every one of them. He is not nor has he ever been a squatter. Wizzy is a real boy leg lifter. Problem is he has had to compensate for his back leg weakness and often he will stop and pee on the poles doing his unique little handstand balancing on his front paws only. He navigates his stream with male pride and the joy of release. He will often turn to me for the words 'good boy ' and I reciprocate with a treat assuring his place in the big world. I suppose it may seem a strange sight to others watching a little furball doing a 'pawstand' for a pee break. For Wiz and I , it has become a normal occurrence. I have often meant to bring my camera to catch the pee performance in progress. One day I will...until then ..
we continue on our merry way until we reach the next pitstop that needs a Wiz mark.

Hats Off To Dawn

2009-08-30T10:32:00.003-04:00

Today is my eldest daughter's birthday. When she was a little girl we use to listen to the singing story book of Johnny Fedora and Alice Blue Bonnet. It was the story of finding true love and once you find the perfect fit to never give up on it because the world can be an empty and lonely place without it. Disney knew what he was talking about. May your story always have a happy ending and may you always find love, know love, give love and be loved.

Love ,

Mom xoxoxo

His Brother's Keeper

2009-08-29T18:17:00.005-04:00

Ted Kennedy was the keeper of his own children as well as his brothers'. More than that, he became the keeper of his nation by living by the words he spoke. Watching his funeral today, I felt the triumph more than the tragedy. The President and Ted's sons paid tribute to a man who by his own admission was far from perfect and yet became the greatest legislator of his time. The Kennedy family will surely miss this boisterous Irishman as will his friends, supporters and adversaries. Ted Kennedy may never have made it to the highest office in the land yet he lived his dream and fulfilled his destiny. As the Arlington flame shines eternal so will the Kennedy legacy.... three brothers together at last.

GoD And DoG

2009-08-23T23:06:00.001-04:00

A dear friend sent me this and I wanted to share with all of you.
For those of you who have ever loved a special dog in your life , you will relate to the words and want to rush right over and hug your dogs .
I know I did.

United Breaks Guitars: Song 2

2009-08-18T12:26:00.005-04:00

We could be best buddies if you come to your senses and watch the second installment by Timmin's own Dave Carroll lamenting on the damage done to his Taylor guitar. This song is lighthearted, pure fun and I loved the butt grab.
Now the world has to wait for the last song in the trilogy of United Breaks Guitars. Music and laughter, innuendo and sarcasm .....I wanted to dance in the field with all of your family and be a part of the human guitar.

The Big Question of The Day

2009-08-17T18:23:00.003-04:00

Do I need a hair hump? Do any of us really need a hair hump? For those of you not in the know , a hair hump is a plastic contraption that is advertised for $19.99 to add height to your hair style similar to the bee hive look of the sixties. You can tease the heck out of your hair with a comb and spray the bejesus out or do it the easy way with a hair hump ....or is it bump ?
Either way I just can't decide if I need one hump or two.

Here Lies My Memory

2009-08-11T11:36:00.004-04:00

Beneath this sacred cross lies my memory.
Of what used to be and yet I still know not.
I know not what it is that I am supposed to remember.
For here lies my memory, gone long before my flesh.
The flesh of a body that contains a shell,
and for what purpose I cannot tell.
Some say it is best that I do not remember,
the only thing I know is what I see before me.
At least in this moment, what was, what is and what shall
be eludes me.
So I sit here in this rocking chair looking up at a sacred cross,
and maybe I remember a little of what that means.
Or all the while not despairing , I can only hope that He
who was on that cross, will remember me.
Far beyond the time when I cannot remember Him or myself.
Maybe that is all I need to know,
Always remember I loved you so.

In loving memory of "Mamanoona" who is finally free of the pain of this earth and is in the loving arms of our Lord.
For Suzanne , who loved and cared for her mother through all the years of Alzheimers..a loving example of courage and strength. Your mother's spirit lives on in you.
The 'long goodbye' has ended

Test Pattern of Life

2009-08-05T14:26:00.003-04:00

When I was a little kid, I remember staring at this image on our old black and white television waiting for the Saturday morning cartoons. I never knew what it meant , still don't . My parent's just called it "the test pattern". It reminds me of a purgatory before all the good stuff happens. That is how I feel right now that I am in one of life's test patterns and I have to hold on tight , have faith, be patient and wait for all the good stuff to come my way. Fate has literally blindsided me in the back when I was not looking and left me hospitalized and bedridden. For the last few weeks, pain was a constant and morphine was my friend. I need time to rebuild and regain my physical strength.
Without health there is nothing.
I leave you with the test pattern. Enjoy the fleeting days of summer.
Love Ma ( 'the good stuff' )

United Breaks Guitars

2009-07-10T10:10:00.002-04:00

I had to post this video this morning as Dave Carroll is reaching the media in a very unique way with his new song based on his true experience. Take a listen and it says the whole story in song . If you have never heard of the Sons Of Maxwell .... you will NOW !

Gone Too Soon

2009-07-10T06:54:00.001-04:00

Like A Comet
Blazing 'Cross The Evening Sky
Gone Too Soon

Like A Rainbow
Fading In The Twinkling Of An Eye
Gone Too Soon

Shiny And Sparkly
And Splendidly Bright
Here One Day
Gone One Night

Like The Loss Of Sunlight
On A Cloudy Afternoon
Gone Too Soon

Like A Castle
Built Upon A Sandy Beach
Gone Too Soon

Like A Perfect Flower
That Is Just Beyond Your Reach
Gone Too Soon

Born To Amuse, To Inspire, To Delight
Here One Day
Gone One Night

Like A Sunset
Dying With The Rising Of The Moon
Gone Too Soon

Gone Too Soon

You Are Not Alone

2009-07-09T06:42:00.002-04:00

You Are Not Alone
Another day has gone
I'm still all alone
How could this be
You're not here with me
You never said goodbye
Someone tell me why
Did you have to go
And leave my world so cold

Everyday I sit and ask myself
How did love slip away
Something whispers in my ear and says
That you are not alone
For I am here with you
Though you're far away
I am here to stay

But you are not alone
For I am here with you
Though we're far apart
You're always in my heart
But you are not alone

'Lone, 'lone
Why, 'lone

Just the other night
I thought I heard you cry
Asking me to come
And hold you in my arms
I can hear your prayers
Your burdens I will bear
But first I need your hand
Then forever can begin

Everyday I sit and ask myself
How did love slip away
Something whispers in my ear and says
That you are not alone
For I am here with you
Though you're far away
I am here to stay

For you are not alone
For I am here with you
Though we're far apart
You're always in my heart
For you are not alone

Whisper three words and I'll come runnin'
And girl you know that I'll be there
I'll be there

You are not alone
For I am here with you
Though you're far away
I am here to stay
For you are not alone
For I am here with you
Though we're far apart
You're always in my heart

For you are not alone
For I am here with you
Though you're far away
I am here to stay

For you are not alone
For I am here with you
Though we're far apart
You're always in my heart

For you are not alone...

Tribute to an Icon

2009-07-08T07:45:00.002-04:00

I never dreamed you'd leave in summer
I thought you would go then come back home
I thought the cold would leave by summer
But my quiet nights will be spent alone

You said there would be warm love in springtime
That is when you started to be cold
I never dreamed you'd leave in summer
But now I find myself all alone

You said then you'd be the life in autumn
Said you'd be the one to see the way
I never dreamed you'd leave in summer
But now I find my love has gone away

Why didn't you stay

The Man, The Myth , The Magic , and the Music

2009-07-07T10:01:00.004-04:00

May you Rest in Heavenly Peace .

Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though its breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, youll get by
If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
Youll see the sun come shining through for you

Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near
Thats the time you must keep on trying
Smile, whats the use of crying?
Youll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile

Thats the time you must keep on trying
Smile, whats the use of crying?
Youll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile

Cold Wind Blowing

2009-07-05T13:42:00.002-04:00

There is a cold wind blowing today. We are barely into July and the northern breeze reminds us that time passes quickly for each of us. The stores are having their mid summer sales before we can get to the beach for a warm swim. I passed a robin this morning scavenging for his morning meal.

He stared at me as I walked by, making a mockery of the cool morning with his screeching and lack of breakfast. In the aftermath of his fleeting wings, I thought I heard him whisper "where are you going lady?" Smartass bird. Where do you think I am going ?.......

.....where the four winds take me.

360

2009-07-03T09:01:00.009-04:00

I hate goodbyes. Always have. Yet it is a part of life we all have to deal with at some point or another. It is with a sad heart that I say farewell to two friends of mine who have been a part of my life for over 30 years. They are closing the chapter on a familiar life and opening the novel of adventure and promise in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island. Years from now I will look back at this photograph and remember two of the best friends I have ever had the privilege to know.
Happy trails to you.
Hello.

“Sometimes in life,

You find a special friend

Someone who changes your life

By being a part of it……..

Sometimes you find a friend

Who makes you laugh

Until you can’t stop

Someone who makes you believe

That there really is good in the world.

Someone who convinces you

That there is an unlocked door

Just waiting for you to open it.

This is forever friendship.

When you are down,

And the world seems dark and empty,

You forever friend lifts you up in spirit

And makes that dark and empty world

Suddenly seem bright and full.

Your forever friend gets you

Through the hard times, the sad times,

And the confused times.

If you turn and walk away,

Your forever friend follows you

If you lose your way,

Your forever friend guides you

and cheers you on.

You forever friend holds your hand

and tells you that everything is going to be okay.

And if you find such a friend,

You feel happy and complete

Because you need not to be worry.

You have a forever friend for life,

And forever has no end………..”

“Some friends are forever” by Laurieann Kelly

And Sings My Soul ( For Polly )

2009-06-28T17:31:00.003-04:00

The rain came down today. It poured from the heavens like the Lord had overturned a bucket over our heads this afternoon. We were a handful of mourners gathered at the grave site to say good bye to Polly. She had passed from this earth in March. Her husband and life partner had transported her ashes from the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island to be buried beside her parents. The good thing about the rain is that you can be drenched and the raindrops and the tears merge as one. Just as Polly is now one with God and her spirit has soared to the light of heaven well beyond the storm clouds of this earth. We gathered , family and friends , at the local church to "socialize " and remember a life well traveled and well lived. She taught me a lot about "taking time" for a good glass of chardonnay and just sitting and chatting it up with no where to go but where I was in that particular moment. There was not a soul in that room today that she had not touched somehow, some way. So precious the memories , so precious the time.

One of her brothers had recited this poem I share with you now:

Journey Home

Joy Conner

My journey starts with a soft voice calling me into the night.
I am lifted up and drawn toward a beautiful light.
I am leaving my family, friends and all other earthly things.
I am like a bird going toward the heavens, trying out my new wings.
But as I soar upward everything becomes so clear.
Special arms are wrapped around me, removing all my fears.

I am an eagle, climbing high over the pine trees,

the lakes and the land.

A special love is gently leading me,

taking me by the hand.

I have wings, I go higher into the deep blue of the sky.

But I am leaving you and I wonder why me,

Oh God, why?

I fly like an eagle--but am more like a dove.
For I am leaving you all with a heart full of love.
My journey is taking me to a home far away.
That same voice promising I'll see you some day.
I leave you with so very much regret.
But please--do not grieve for me yet,
for my soul and spirit are finally free.
I go at peace into eternity.

We Are The World

2009-06-26T21:15:00.005-04:00

..and we are in mourning for Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett. Whatever your private opinions on their respective personal lives , one cannot deny the enormous impact each had in music and the arts. One death had been expected for months now as Farrah fought for her life against the dreaded cancer that invaded her body but never stole her indomitable fighting spirit. We watched from our arm chairs as she documented the realities of cancer. Many of us have seen this in our own families and it is without a doubt, one of our greatest fears. Farrah Fawcett stared back at that fear with dignity and a defiance that surpassed any role she ever played.
The shock of Michael Jackson's death rang around the world with the beat of disbelief and sadness. His music became the sound track of a generation and will remain his greatest legacy. The days ahead will be filled with the tears of their families and friends. The entire world aches for the loss of both of them .
Farrah's smile is gone from this earth and shines on a more heavenly plane. Whether you are black or white the sudden loss of a legend is a story still unfolding.
We are the world. We are sad and we are in pain.

Father's Day Blessings

2009-06-21T07:31:00.004-04:00

I am sitting here this morning counting my blessings , which I endeavor to do on a daily basis. Today I am most grateful for having my father in my life. He is a modest man who would shy away from any accolades but he deserves it a million fold. To know him , is to love him . No question.
He is the kind of Dad that puts the 'extra 'in extraordinary. Through life's heartaches and roadblocks , he has walked a path of compassion and love of family and friends. My Dad has a smile that can light up a room and a laugh so individual there is no doubt who it is.
His sparkling blue eyes twinkle with mischief and he will be the first to tell you he is not perfect ... but he is perfect to me, and that is all that counts.
Thank you for teaching me what really matters in life is not what I have but who I am .
I love you Dad. Forever and a day. Happy Father's Day .

The Power of Prayer

2009-06-18T13:24:00.001-04:00

Please say a small pray for this little guy today .

Crap

2009-06-14T10:11:00.001-04:00

We Had A Ticket To Ride

2009-06-13T15:47:00.005-04:00

N@ and I had a ticket to ride first class Via Rail from Montreal to Quebec City. I am usually the economy class kind of gal so going first class for a few bucks extra was a big deal for me. I have to tell ya I am spoiled rotten for it now. We had comfy seats , leg room for a basketball player, our luggage under our seats , a cute little male steward , and a fancy dancy menu to choose our meal. I had the grilled vegetable roll with artichoke and balsamic, cheese and spinach cannelloni with roasted red pepper sauce and portabella mushroom topping, 2 glasses of white wine , and a chocolate cheesecake. I know , I know ..I am a diva. After my Air Canada 'jet snack' and water, I felt like the queen of Quebec.
This was my first time doing the train experience in many years and I have to say I totally loved it!
Mind you it was just a 3 hour ride but it was so relaxing to sit back and watch the scenery change before my eyes like a slide show of the world.
.......and the best part of all : sitting beside my daughter whom I had not seen in over a year.
Before too long we heard the whistle announcing our arrival and we were taking our cabooses off the train.
I was visiting Quebec City for the first time in my life.

Coffee 4 Kids

2009-06-03T09:44:00.002-04:00

Today June 3rd is Tim Horton Camp Day across the nation from sea to shining sea. Rev up your day with Tim's coffee and jumpstart a child's life into a new and brighter future.

Total proceeds from coffee are directed to the Tim Horton Children's Foundation where deserving children from your neighborhood will attend a Tim Horton camp this summer.

One cup of coffee can make a difference.

Buy up.

Ma @ The Spa

2009-05-28T12:29:00.007-04:00

This one was for the girls. On Mother's Day weekend my daughter , my sister and I headed for the little hamlet of Astorville , just outside of North Bay , to the Spa & Country Retreat at Hummingbird Hill.http://www.hummingbirdhill.ca/

We were long past due for a little pampering and girlie time. We were met by the two greeter cats one which mildly attacked me after I petted it. Once inside we were to forget our troubles and ply ourselves with mini chocolate cheesecakes, strawberries , and champagne orange juice.
It worked. I was tanked in no time. Not bad for 10 am.
We had a package deal of manicures , pedicures , and an aromatherapy wrap of lavender or lime. Seems we all chose the lime because we were thinking tequila sunshine. The subsequent massage left each one of us zoned out and vacantly happy.
The staff were professional and lots of fun and I thank our estheticians for their kindness and patience for putting up with three northern gals on a no stress quest.
We left feeling pretty oh so pretty ..with smiles on our faces and colorful toe nails.

This is for all you girls about 42 ( give or take )
Tossin' pennies into the fountain of youth
Every laugh, laugh line on your face
Made you who you are today

The Hummingbird Spa
Greeter cat #1
Greeter attack cat #2 ...no tail because he is a Manx cat and no, I did not take a tiger by the tail.
Self explanatory
The three amigos ready to be spaaaaaaaaed
My sister has her very first pedicure.
Manicuring Ma
Sweet Elizabeth working on my footsies
I forgot to tell Lizzie that she needed a goalie mask for protection when she worked on my pedicure.
Two estheticians brace me for the foot massage .
Not a CSI episode but my lime aromatherapy wrap or my secret life as a baked potato.
Two of the best , Darlene and Elizabeth .
These toes were made for walking .

An Oinker

2009-05-27T18:48:00.002-04:00

For those of you worried about the possibility of an imminent pandemic and the rampant media reports of the swine flu ....rest assured there are no side effects save for this one.

( ya, ya I am bad .)

Rocker Shocker

2009-05-21T07:11:00.002-04:00

After watching the entire season of American Idol , I am once again disappointed that the aspiring young singer with the total package did not take the crown. There was not an episode where Adam Lambert did not outshine and out sing every contestant on that stage. Week after week , he proved himself to be worthy of the title. This morning , I wonder how much a homophobic America had in deciding this fiasco. The tweenyboppers must have been out in full force texting like crazy to assure the rocker topple. The Danny votes headed to the underdog. The new Idol judge proved her lack of class and song writing capabities with her stripshow and the so called Idol hit song 'No Boundaries '.
I have bought several Adam videos from the iTunes site to remember how this Elvis lookalike owned the stage and every song he sang. The future is his.
It is a Mad World.

Say Cheese

2009-05-19T06:02:00.002-04:00

I was around three years old playing with my cousins and my aunt Ruth said say 'cheese' and I did.
Funny how the mind remembers these things and yet I cannot find some paper that I put away for safe keeping a week ago. I should be glad I have a mind today since it is my birthday. 58. I do not feel as old as that number implies. I do not think my mind will ever be in sync with my chronological age. I will be like my father, defying the odds of aging with a smile and my middle finger.
PS. Woke up to snow to this morning . Wouldn't be the first time I had snow on my birthday.
Happy Birthday Me .

Happy Birthday to My Dad

2009-05-18T06:44:00.003-04:00

Dear Dad,
It has been said the apple does not fall far from the tree. That could be true as I was born the day after your own birthday. You use to say that I was almost your birthday gift. Truth be told, I think you were were mine. Throughout my childhood unto this day, your loving heart and generosity have led the way with strength and humor. There is no doubt who it is when your laughter and smile light up the room. Your dancing blue eyes and indomitable spirit have taught this girl a little about life and a lot about love.
Today we celebrate , love and honor you. Today we are all blessed.
Love you Dad.
Thumbs up.
Darling daughter #1.

Another Exciting Episode of : Where In The World Is Ma ?

2009-05-09T11:42:00.002-04:00

Here are the clues :

1. Hummingbirds

2. My Feet

3. Champagne and Wine

4. Mud

5 ...and last but far from least Live , Love & Laugh

P.S. Happy Mother's Day from Ma !!

Rain

2009-04-30T12:39:00.002-04:00

I love the rain. I love the sound of it. I love the smell of it. I love the way the robins come out to play in it looking for peekaboo worms in the soil. I love the way it nourishes the crocuses and tulips to grow tall after winter's shadow. I love the way it feeds the grass and transforms the yellow to brilliant green. I love the rain drops catching the twigs to remind them that it is spring and they need to turn over a new leaf. I never mind the gray clouds that pour the cleansing rain for they bring a promise of a better day.
So if you see me skipping through the puddles today in my bright red rain boots, remember, it is okay to sing and dance in the rain. It is a good thing.

Spring In A Northern Town

2009-04-24T08:56:00.008-04:00

First sign of spring in a northern town ... not the return of robins , but houseflies.
Let me out.
Dirty mountains of snowbanks block your view.
Sad Santas need to go back to bed for another year.
.... and so do the lights of Christmas.
Unless you like sandals in the snow , these will sit sans feet for a while yet.
Shovels need a vacation and so do I .
The ghosts of winter long to feel the sun again .. to be free and green.
Real pavement ..hurray !
This is and will be again my lilac bush.

Karma's ball sits idle waiting for her joyful play.
Running water is a welcome sound .
The cranky ravens say spring is nevermore ...but the hardy robins in the snow say otherwise.

I do not want to speak too soon but there is a few signs that spring may finally be here after a very long, cold and snowy winter. Although our temperature promises to climb to 18C today there is a forecast of light snow for the weekend. Keep it light.

Love Your Earth Day

2009-04-22T07:44:00.001-04:00

Wherever you are in this old world, today is the day to cherish the ground you walk on. Cultivate your knowledge on protecting our environment on a daily basis. Love your earth and the earth will love you back .

My Birthday Boy

2009-04-17T12:26:00.011-04:00

The Wizard of Paws at 8 weeks old.
Wiz models the latest in Spring polo shirts for the fashion conscious Yorkie.
'
Wizzy loves the snow and loves to love .....my little Casanova.

My little Wizard is one year old today. It is hard to believe that I have had him almost an entire year. Having had larger dogs for over twenty years, it has been quite the experience having such a tiny dog in the household. For the most part, I have trained the Wiz like any other dog despite his elfin size. He learned the canine obedience rules in record time. The key word "repertoire" signifies a series of commands the end result meaning treat time. Karma has secretly loved her little brother's training sessions as it invariably means she gets a treat as well. When Wiz gets too rambunctious , as most young puppies do, the word "timeout " means he has to lay his head down and be still for just a little bit. He has at one time or another taken a liking to shoes, baseboards, and most anything within his teething reach. By far the most challenging aspect of this four pound wonder was his toilet training. Believe me when I say I have needed the patience of Job to get through his housetraining. Both my shepherds were trained at 10 weeks old and I could not understand why this idea was just not kicking in for him when he picked up so quickly on many of the other dog basics. The more I read , the more I learned. Their plumbing system would take a while to develop fully. Yorkies are a stubborn breed and somewhere around the 8th month I would notice a big difference.... and I did. My little Wizard loved to do his business in the great outdoors at long last. I still keep his little wee pad by the door for emergencies only but for the most part, the lure of 'outside ' has drawn him to the art of outdoor leg lifting. Karma and Wizzy are great buddies and keep one another company. Wiz loves to snuggle into her warm fur and Karma lets him do pretty much anything to her.
Down the road there is the possibility of a major operation for Wizzy as he was diagnosed with "luxating patella" at 8 weeks of age due to bad breeding. This means he has 2 kneecaps that slide back and forth , one worse than the other, and require an operation to deepen the groove and pin the bone in place. When Wizzy looks at me with those liquid brown eyes I know that I will do anything to give him the quality of life that he deserves when that time comes.
Wiz is such a little character. Despite all the doggie issues we have dealt with , this little ragamuffin has brought joy and laughter into my life and danced his way into the hearts of all he meets. He is the consummate entertainer.
He loves everyone and everything. I believe that is and will forever be his purpose.
Happy Birthday to my sweet boy, the Wizard of Paws .

Wolf Update

2009-04-14T09:50:00.001-04:00

Family dog dies after wolf attack

Posted 1 hour ago

The Parcey family's dog took her last breath on Friday.

Missy, a collie-shepherd cross, died at the Timmins Animal Hospital after being attacked by a pack of wolves last week.

"It's tough. It's very tough," Monica Parcey said. "It's a tragic end. At least she died with us and not with the wolves. I will miss her. We always felt safe with her."

Seeing wolves or wolf tracks in and around the Jaguar Road area is nothing new for the family. However, with multiple reported wolf attacks happening to family dogs, the Parcey family worries that the problem will only escalate.

"It's not going to go away unless we do something about it. Her brother was lost to wolves but I didn't witness it. This instance I witnessed it so that's why it's so traumatizing," she said.

Parcey has been diligently researching online about wolf attacks and said that incidents do occur in the early morning between 6:30 and 10 a. m.

"There are kids waiting for school buses at that time," she warned. "You can't keep turning a blind eye. It's not a lone wolf, it's not two or three."

Last Monday, Parcey said she saw at least 10 wolves. The pack dragged their 85-pound dog into a field, ripping her skin and exposing her ribs.

"It's very scarring," she explained.

On Friday night, Parcey went to visit Missy at the animal hospital. She was breathing heavily and was medicated to help reduce the pain. There was severe damage to her neck and there was swelling and bruising throughout her body. Missy also needed stitches from head to toe.

"I had a talk with Missy and told her she needed to make up her mind. I said, 'Missy girl, if you need to let go, it's OK by me.' She died that night," Parcey said. "Maybe it's time for people who have suffered losses to come forward so we can see the true numbers."

Parcey said the Ministry of Natural Resources suggested they call a trapper.

"The trappers were told to get their snares out of the bush because it's the end of the trapping season for wolves," she said. "Can we reinstate a bounty on these things? They are getting too close and confident."

Parcey said every time it snows there are a fresh set of wolf tracks.

"They are large timber wolves and they are very menacing. When I go to my truck, I check over my shoulder because you just don't know," she said.

Similar problems with wolves are also happening in the greater Sudbury area.

The Sudbury Star reported on April 10, Diane Korpela, owner of Pineridge Ranch, recently lost five deer from her petting zoo to a pack of wolves. Korpela said the buildup of snow allowed the wolves to walk over a fence, leaving her animals at their mercy.

Monday's Smile

2009-04-13T12:43:00.002-04:00

Sometimes in life you just need a little something to make you smile.

Happy Easter Peeps

2009-04-11T10:25:00.001-04:00

Front Page News Today

2009-04-08T12:24:00.002-04:00

Wolves Attack

A local family has nothing to do but sit idly by and hope their family pet pulls through.

The Parcey family's collie-shepherd cross, Missy, has become the most recent victim of a wolf attack on Jaguar Road.

Late Monday night, Monica Parcey looked outside to see a pack of wolves dragging her 11-year-old dog into a field.

Calling out to her husband, Bob, Monica said most of the wolves did nothing but simply stare back at her, while her husband ran outside shouting.

"There were at least 10 of them that I saw," Monica told The Daily Press, adding that Missy was a regular outside dog, weighing about 85 pounds.

"She's always outside, and if there's anything around she usually barks and lets us know."

But Missy didn't bark when the wolves approached her, making Monica think that an east-blowing wind prevented the dog from smelling or hearing them.

"She didn't have a chance," Monica said. "I saw something on the ground and knew it was her."

Bob was quickly out the door and ran to the garage, where he screamed at the remaining wolves before finally the largest of the pack let go of Missy and turned away.

Missy somehow managed to pick herself up and walk to the garage, where Bob was waiting. Missy was rushed to the Timmins Animal Hospital.

"She's been very heavily sedated, because there are so many open wounds" said Monica, who said she hasn't seen the dog since it was brought in.

"She fought back. She's a pretty tough girl."

Bob said the wolves had managed to rip open the side of Missy, exposing her ribs, and there was puncture wounds throughout her body.

He said Dr. Ed Butterworth seems to think Missy will be OK, but is worried about possible internal bleeding.

Because her thick winter coat acted as a barrier, Monica said a lot of the wounds could have been worse.

The Parceys aren't the first family to feel the wrath of local wolves. Three families on the same road reported three dogs had been killed by wolves earlier this year.

At the time, Ministry of Natural Resources enforcement supervisor Jim Abbott said it was only assumed it had been wolves, and residents should always have their animals and livestock under their direct control.

Abbott said he had put the families in touch with a trapper, who would work with them to resolve the problem.

But Bob Parcey said he knows for sure it was wolves that dragged Missy off into the field.

"I seen them with my own eyes," he said.

He added that he has seen the animals in the area before, but never in his backyard.

"She has been in the bush all her life, and Missy never backed down from anything," he said.

The Parcey's second dog, a younger retriever was left alone by the wolves, making Bob believe they went for the older, weaker of the two.

The Parceys say they always keep their house well lit at night with lights on the house, garage and in the backyard, and thought it would keep the wolves away.

But Monica said there was no fear in the wolves on Monday night.

"Those wolves were not running away from me, and that worries me," said Bob. "I want people to know the real danger that's out there for their dogs and most importantly, their kids."

When questioned about the Parcey's situation, MNR representatives said they were unable to provide comment at this time.

April 8, 2009

2009-04-08T10:28:00.003-04:00

This is for all of you basking in the sunshine and enjoying the first crocuses and tulips of spring.... Visual proof of the never ending story of winter in the great white north.
ps There is a shovel with your name on it Kittycakes .

One Year Ago Today

2009-04-01T13:34:00.009-04:00

One year ago today I was in Montreal General with a horrific head injury. Because of this accident, I do not think I will ever again joke on the first of April. The sad circumstances surrounding the recent death of actress Natasha Richardson brought home to me how very fortunate I was that night. The following months involved a few emergency visits to our local hospital for respiratory probems, headaches, subsequent CAT scans , sleep apnea and allergy tests. The year long congestion that began in November 2007 slowly left me in December of 2008 as mysteriously as it appeared.

As with all life changing cirumstances, we are meant to learn a lesson .... and I did. It was something I had already known but in fact had not practised enough in my daily life. I learned to put the 'joy' back into 'enjoy'. I learned to emulate my dogs and simply "be" in the moment that I am in.

I learned to be more God like .. to forgive, to appreciate , and above all to love more deeply than ever before. Not just my immediate family or friends, but extending a hand to a stranger on the street whenever I had the chance. To say hello more. To have fun more. To laugh more. Hug more. Smile.

To be a better person. A strange thing happened when I did those things. I felt amazingly good.

So was this the secret to life? Do unto others.

If you follow this blog and read between the lines , you might have realized that I had lost a friend of mine to cancer a few weeks back. She was the sister of my best friend .... the one we had visited out west in the fall. By the time the new year began , she was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. She died on March 19th. I learned a lot from knowing this special woman.

She lived , traveled, enjoyed , cherished , gave to others and loved so generously.... to her sisters , her brothers, her husband , her friends , and to people she did not know at all.

She was a humanitarian and an environmentalist. Her life was full.

The head trauma left me with a 4 inch scar on the back of my head. Paulette's death left me with an undeniable ache in my heart . Both taught me the same lesson.

Live like you were living.

I Am In This Picture

2009-03-31T13:40:00.002-04:00

"Stand By Me"

2009-03-26T12:41:00.001-04:00

For all my friends both near and far, this is for you.

Heaven's Novice Angel

2009-03-19T17:10:00.002-04:00

In memory of Paulette,
Enjoy the flight . Till we meet again.

My Irish Secret

2009-03-17T10:13:00.006-04:00

Where is my Irish coffee ... caffeine ,sugar, alcohol , and fat .

Cat who?
Rob who?

Parade prep.
CTV float ..natch ..
Tommy flashes .....an Irish grin .
Lost in shamrocks
My Nattypatty and me
Mark who?
When Irish eyes are smilin'

Last year at this time I was in Montreal for the annual St Patrick's Day parade. I was invited along to ride the big bike with all the Mix 96 crew ( now all Virgins.) I had the best time. Nothing can put a smile on my face than spending time with my Nattypatty on St.Patty's Day or any day.
Whereever you go and whatever you do , may the luck of the Irish be there with you .
xoxooxoxxo

Top of The Morning

2009-03-16T10:16:00.003-04:00

Hey all lads and lassies ..( and I luv the lassies ) it is The Wiz here at Ma's lap when I am not sittin' on hers. Yippeee doo doo ... I love the whole world today and everyday. The sun is shining , the snow is melting and all I see is Yorkshire poodings everywhere. Life is grand.
There is a bit of the devil in all of us and that is no malarkey.
..oops , here comes Ma ...time for puppy eyes. Yea I got her wrapped .
Time to check on Karmy ( wink ) .
Cheers .
Wizzy

Ode To Timmins

2009-03-13T06:58:00.002-04:00

Timmins- February 2009

It's winter in Timmins And the gentle breezes blow,
70 miles per hour at 52 below!
Oh, how I love Timmins When the snow's up to your butt;
You take a breath of winter air
And your nose is frozen shut.
Yes, the weather here is wonderful,
I guess I'll hang around.
I could never leave Timmins Cause I'm frozen to the ground.

Turning Forty

2009-03-08T08:10:00.003-04:00

One of my favorite people and fellow bloggers is turning the big 4-0 today and having a difficult time with the number. That is the point. It is a number and simply that. You are no different than you were yesterday or the day before except for the fact you have a new age. It is how you feel Shawniepants and I know you know that. It is all about the maintenance my dear man.
Look good. Feel good . Kick 40 to the curb.
Happy birthday Hugh Jass.

Sunshine , Lollipoops ...

2009-03-07T15:04:00.005-05:00

(With apologies to Leslie Gore )
Sunshine, lollipoops and dog doo,
Everywhere
That smell is what I feel when spring is in the air,
Wiz is brighter than a lucky penny,
When he's near the brown turds disappear, dear,
And I feel so fine just to know that he is mine.
Sunshine, lollipoops and dog doo,
Everywhere
That's wonderful when Wiz can come your way
'Cause you're in poop, you're in poop,
And poop is here to stay!

Fecequality

2009-02-28T10:53:00.006-05:00

It seems that Wizard has discovered that his own poo is every bit as delectable as Karma's. I have caught him several times this week with a miniature turd in his mouth instead of his usual poop whopper. Will this never end? Yesterday with all the ice and snow and sub zero weather, he still went out to the potty area sniffing around for a snack. I had cleaned up the day before but it seems Karma had to go in the morning and I had missed the big event. Immediately , I called the little poop eating machine back to the door. Wizard excels at the recall because when he returns, I have a pet store dog treat for him most of the time. Yesterday , I saw his little hairy head lift over the snow bank when I yelled "Wizzy , come." He came a running dragging behind him what I would describe as a poo snow boulder. The biggest one yet. A massive amount of frozen dog stools stuck together with ice and snow. It was more than half the size of his four pound body. He was so quick that he had it in the house and on the mat before you could say sh**.
So today I am thinking .. are we missing something? Not a screw loose , but the fact there might be an entrepreneur in the making here. Perhaps this stuff does taste good. At least to dogs.
Wizard and I could start our own franchise.. Wizard's Whoppers. Of course , Karma would be the silent partner in all of this.
Either that , or I rent the little bastard for cleaning yards in the spring.

Call Me Jack

2009-02-27T13:12:00.003-05:00

I am beginning to feel like I am in The Shining. We had another winter storm after midnight last night and woke up to yet another minus 37C morning with 15 -20 more cm of sparkly snow flakes (I like to refer to it as white sh**). Let it be known far and wide (and yes I am feeling wide as I gorge on winter comfort food), that I am not nor have I ever been a winter person. There is no winter holiday planned this year which has added to my restlessness and pina colada urges . I almost bought a SAD ( Seasonal Affective Disorder ) lamp at Sears the other day until I thought what good is the simulated sunlight without an umbrella drink and the ocean. Oh right ... I could get off my wide back porch and make my own drink in the tub but it is just not the same. Besides , how can anything called SAD make me happy. After his early morning constitution, all Wizzy wanted to do was burrow underneath the warm blankets. Karma went belly up, groaned , and fell back to sleep. You know it's cold when the dogs do not care to go out.
I thought we were in global warming. Perhaps not. More like global freezing to death .
Frosty the snowman is nothing but a frozen creep in a top hat and scarf.....and Jack Frost can go lick a metal fence. I am fed up.
Have you ever had a SINGLE MOMENT'S THOUGHT about my responsibilities? Have you ever thought, for a single solitary moment about my responsibilities to my employers?? Has it ever occurred to you that I have agreed to look after the OVERLOOK Hotel until May the FIRST. Does it MATTER TO YOU AT ALL that the OWNERS have placed their COMPLETE CONFIDENCE and TRUST in me, and that I have signed a letter of agreement, a CONTRACT, in which I have accepted that RESPONSIBILITY? Do you have the SLIGHTEST IDEA, what a MORAL AND ETHICAL PRINCIPLE IS, DO YOU? Has it ever occurred to you what would happen to my future, if I were to fail to live up to my responsibilities? Has it ever occurred to you? HAS IT??
....oops , sorry fell asleep for a sec ....

Grandpa Horton Bangs The Bongos For Roll Up The Rim

2009-02-23T14:20:00.004-05:00

"Hey out there to the World Wide Webbers , it's Grandpa Horton letting you know that Tim Hortons Roll Up The Rim starts TODAY ! I loooooove to win as much as I like drinking the coffee.
One of our stores won a car last year .....now that was something . There are 35 2009 Toyota Venzas waiting under that cup for 35 lucky customers ...wish it was me ...but it could be YOU !.
Who wouldn't like 100 10,000 cash prizes to ease the recession headaches. This year there are 1,000 Toshiba laptops and 25,000 $100 Tim cards to be had . Plus if you like to eat as much as I do you will love the fact that there are over 31,000,000 food prizes.
For all of you snowbirds in Florida , tough Timmies .. you may have the sun , but we got the COFFEE and the CARS .
Well time to rrrrrrRRRRRRRoll on outta here ...
Regards ,
Grandpa Horton .
p.s. Hit delete if you see Ma . "

Oscar Who? Get Rollin'...

2009-02-22T11:44:00.008-05:00

Starts tomorrow. A little pre - exercise warm up to get you in the mood .
http://www.rolluptherimtowin.com

Obamamania

2009-02-19T10:44:00.004-05:00

I have it. I have it just like I had Beatlemania in the sixties. I wish I was in Ottawa right now to catch the fever. My television is the closest I can get to the new president. I watched the blue and green presidential plane ( Air Force One ) land on Canadian soil. President Obama descended the steps with his trademark smile. As he greeted the entourage of government dignitaries , I found that I was smiling right along with them. Just like I was really there. He just has that effect on people. I watched the crowds ... student and senior, bundled up children, politicians , a stoic RCMP with a glimpse of a grin. We were all smiling.
You can't help but catch the air of positivity that follows this man. He has been called the "rock star" president. I am sure his daughters laugh over that one.
It may have been a typical windy cold day in Ottawa but you could feel the warmth of hospitality everywhere. The handshake of two nations looking to the future with hope.
P.S. Malia and Sasha ..Daddy bought Canadian cookies st the Ottawa market for you .
"Obladi , oblada....happy ever after in the marketplace ."

Just A Dog

2009-02-18T11:57:00.005-05:00

(For all of you who love dogs as much as I do .)

If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably understand phases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a promise."

"Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy.

"Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that makes me a better person.

Because of "just a dog" I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future.

So for me, and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past and the pure joy of the moment.

"Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog" but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being "just a human."

So the next time you hear the phrase "just a dog." just smile....because they "just don't understand."

- Anonymous

Have A Sweet Day

2009-02-14T07:38:00.001-05:00

My Sunshine Boy

2009-02-12T19:02:00.008-05:00

The Wiz is sick. I hear your thoughts .."is it any wonder with all those poop sandwiches .." . Let me state that the Wizard is on a high quality food and has been since day 1. I believe his little body was not missing any needed nutrients that drove him to decide one day that the snacks outside were better than the food inside. This morning I knew that something was just not right with him. Usually full of fun , Wiz seemed legarthic . His gumline looked whitish and not the usual healthy pink. He was vomiting long strings of foamy bile and eventually ended up with the runs. I called the vet and we were in the office by 10 a.m. With small dogs , time is important as they they can deteriorate quite quickly. His temperature was normal ( good sign). I agreed to blood work just to be on the safe side. By noon hour , the vet called to say his white blood count was low which made it harder for him to fight infection. Wiz returned to the clinic where he given an injection to build up his little system. His food was changed to a more platable diet for sensitive stomachs , diarrhea and vomiting meds, plus a suppmement called "Forbid" to put on Karma's dog food to make her feces taste less appealing to Wiz. ( who knew ? )
My little buddy napped in a sunbeam most of the day, happy just to be back in familar surroundings.
In four days he should be his old self again. Although this little guy is a ton of work, as he lay on my lap this afternoon, I thought of how he managed to find his place in the world with his loving nature and fun personality. Like so many pets before him , he is laying the foundation for a legacy of love ( and vet bills.)
He is my little sunshine boy.

The Race Is On

2009-02-11T11:37:00.002-05:00

( With apologies to George Jones )

Now the race is on and here comes Wizzy up the back yard
Ma's shovel is a-going to the snow side
My boots are holding back trying not too fall
Ma cartwheels out of the running
New poo is snatched for another mutt
The race is on
And it looks like Ma got the sore butt
And the Wizard takes it all.

The Poop Placebo

2009-02-08T11:40:00.003-05:00

If nicorette can work for nicotine addiction, I am hoping that Mr. Poops can satisfy the little guy's coprophilia, which is the technical word for poop eating canines.
The poop placebo looks like poop. It is shaped like poop. However, it smells like plastic and we all know that a dog's number one sense is smell.
Can Wizzy be fooled ?
A poo by any other name would smell as sweet.

Bad Dream

2009-02-05T11:27:00.005-05:00

I have been dreamless for months. Last night, I had a vivid and bad nightmare. I remember wanting to wake up from it but could not detach myself from the scenes playing out in my subconscious. My recollection this morning goes somewhat like this :
I was in a resort of some kind, sitting at a table with persons unknown. I seemed to know one girl and we chatted a bit. The world outside the resort was dark and we were told by a waiter not to venture out as there was a revolt of some kind amongst the people and they were not liking the fact that we were here. The girl and I did not like to be told we could not go out. She said she was leaving for the outside anyways. She wore a brightly colored scarf around her neck and left me smiling and laughing. I saw her walking on the roads outside which were more muddy gutters than roads. Her scarf was the only thing shimmering in the dark, muddy night as she walked into the bleak and empty horizon.
Scene switches to a door and I hear a knock on that door . I open it and on the outside door knob is her colorful scarf. A sinister looking man had left it and I asked where she was. He was going to reply but stopped as he turned to face me. He was tall and thin, said nothing, just looked at me and with a half smile. He turned and walked down the hallway.
The law authorities were to the right of me. They said he will not admit to anything because she was found raped and murdered in the mud.
That is where the dream ends.
It was not a nice dream to think about this morning. It has been said that some dreams that are vivid may have some psychological significance in your life.
Either that , or ... I have been watching way too many C.S.I. reruns.

For The Three Snoots

2009-02-02T12:36:00.004-05:00

You know who you are and I am so blessed to know who you are as well.
Love & prayers,
Ma ( Snoot in Training )

Time In A Bottle

If I could save Time in a bottle
The first thing that I'd like to do
Is to save every day
Till Eternity passes away
Just to spend them with you

If I could make days last forever
If words could make wishes come true
I'd save every day like a treasure and then,
Again, I would spend them with you

But there never seems to be enough time
To do the things you want to do
Once you find them
I've looked around enough to know
That you're the one I want to go
Through time with

If I had a box just for wishes
And dreams that had never come true
The box would be empty
Except for the memory
Of how they were answered by you

But there never seems to be enough time
To do the things you want to do
Once you find them
I've looked around enough to know
That you're the one I want to go
Through time with.

Jim Croce

Take Out

2009-01-31T08:54:00.008-05:00

Take out is not in the context of coffee or donuts. I am referring to "take out" turds or should I say "take in"turds.
Wizzy has decided that the weather is just too cold to eat outside. After visiting his favorite poopsicle spot this morning, my little darling came running back as fast as his little legs could bring him. Once inside, he dropped his little treasure on the mat, a piece of frozen Karma poo, and looked at me like the prince of poopland. I must say his speed of service was commendable. If half my staff ordered up as quickly as this little guy we would have the number one drive thru in the country. Plus he has the personality to match. He sits politely leaving you the order you never wanted with bright eyes and a doggie grin. The thought crossed my mind to tip him a toonie. I have been out as much as three times a day lately scooping as fast as Karma is pooping. Since Yorkshire terriers were originally bred to catch rats in burrows, I somehow think that Wizard's genetics might be kicking in to dig for smelly rat like turds. Hence the term "rat dawg".
So if you're in the mood for a poop sandwich one night , call up 1-705-WIZ-TURD.
Free delivery .

School Daze

2009-01-28T11:12:00.006-05:00

"School days , dear old golden rule days . Reading and 'riting and 'rithmetic taught to the tune of a hickory stick ."

Can you find Maldo ?

A Little Whine

2009-01-27T16:28:00.003-05:00

Time for a little whine. Call up the Tabernacle Choir and Meet The Fockers , which is my way of being polite describing the cramp in my right foot. This cramp comes and goes which is one of the reasons I saw the podiatrist a few years back and he suggested using crocs as slippers since I am sans arch. Today at the mall, I felt like a wounded soldier limping back from the battlegrounds. The pain is excruciating. I sat in the truck for a while, took off my boot , and massaged and bent my toes and foot in a fruitless attempt to alleviate the problem. This is one of the reasons I am always kind to my feet and buy comfy footwear. If anything I have learned through the years is that you cannot be cheap with your feet. Been there , done that and I have suffered for it. Traipsing around in heels with bandages is not a sexy sight. It has been three hours now and my right foot still hurts.
That's it. Time for a little wine to kill the pain.

Monday Morning Chuckle

2009-01-26T11:06:00.001-05:00

With thanks to my sister !

LAUGH OF THE DAY .....

You are on the bus when you suddenly realize ... You need to fart. The music is really loud, so you time your farts with the beat. After a couple of songs, you start to feel better. You approach your stop. As you are leaving the bus, people are really staring at you, and that's when you realize, you have been listening to your ipod................

Feces Felon

2009-01-24T11:29:00.006-05:00

The Wizard of Paws (otherwise known as Wizard, the Wiz, Wizzy, Wizzypoopoo or My Wet Little Penis Boy ) is wanted very much for the foul mouthed act of a feces felony. His is described as wearing a black and tan coat with beady little brown eyes. Suspect was last seen in the vicinity of the backyard with his nose to the snow.
It is believed his accomplice providing the contraband is a meek and mild shepherd of German descent. Approach with caution as the little guy has been known to steal your heart .

44 Presidents

2009-01-21T20:45:00.001-05:00

At Last .

The Day The Sky Changed

2009-01-20T13:10:00.002-05:00

Today the United States of America welcomed its 44th president , Barack Hussein Obama. I watched on television like most of the world marveling at this new day and era in history. I listened to the inauguration speech and watched as he took the oath of office. Abraham Lincoln would have been proud to witness true equality in the highest office of the land. Martin Luther King would have seen his dream finally come true .The president will have struggles and challenges and I, like millions of others , pray for his personal safety to carry out his legacy. Today is a day of ritual, parades, banquets and balls .
Tomorrow the real work begins.
This morning I saw a winter rainbow . That is always a sign of hope . Today the sky changed .

The Poop Chronicles Continued

2009-01-18T10:42:00.006-05:00

Wizard and I are still in competition. He runs out as fast as his little legs will carry him to the potty area and I am after him with the pooper scooping shovel. I have cayenned peppered Karma's turds in the hopes that Wizzy will leave this fetish alone. Seems he likes spicy food. I am sure my neighbors think I am off the proverbial rocker as I pepper the poop with all the fanaticism of Rachael Ray at a dung festival. The only solution is a quick picker upper. Karma is not impressed with the little shadow between her legs as she goes for her bathroom breaks. Wizzy has taken to standing right beneath her, facing her back legs waiting for the offering to the gods. He is still under Karma when she is in her squat position. Sometimes , he even barks demanding her to hurry up.
I am really hoping Wiz outgrows this newly formed habit of his. I know it is disgusting and funny at the same time. My greatest fear is that he will come in one day soaked in dog urine.
If he likes that too, he is in a piss pot of trouble.

Words of Warmth on a Wintry Day

2009-01-15T14:56:00.004-05:00

Although these thoughts were not written by yours truly , the words echoed true and warmed my soul today. I hope it does the same for you .

1. Take a 10-30 minutes walk every day. And while you walk, smile.
2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
3. Sleep for 7 hours.
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy.
5. Play more games.
6. Read more books than you did the previous year.
7. Make time to practice meditation, yoga, and prayer. They provide us with daily fuel for our busy lives.
8. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
9. Dream more while you are awake.
10. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
11. Drink plenty of water.
12. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
13. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
14. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
15. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
16. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
17. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
18. Smile and laugh more.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
21. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
22. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
23. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about. Don't compare your partner with others.
24. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
25. Forgive everyone for everything.
26. What other people think of you is none of your business.
27. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
28. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
29. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
30. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
31. The best is yet to come.
32. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
33. Do the right thing!
34. Call your family often.
35. Your inner most is always happy. So be happy.
36. Each day give something good to others.
37. Don't over do. Keep your limits.

9:OO A.M.

2009-01-14T09:07:00.001-05:00

...and it is minus 35 C .

Reflections

2009-01-13T10:51:00.007-05:00

God's toothpicks.
Lone surfer.
Waiting for the Master .
Return from the sea.
Seascape.
I thought of the west today . The mountains and the ocean remain steadfast within my thoughts. I looked back at some of the photos I had taken and they took on new meaning. The reflections of memories and moments captured in the shutter of my camera. The stark beauty of the day at the Pacific Rim is etched in mind and frame. It was not the warm stream of the Gulf but the cold reality of the northern waters of the Pacific Ocean. The mountains lost in the mist surrounded the driftwood tossed on the sand like divine toothpicks.
We walked the beach that day each of us in private thought. Surfers braved the mighty waves while their dogs waited in anticipation of their return. I remember the wind and the water being cold.
I looked back today and saw the beauty, the power, the infinity and the loneliness of that day.
I plan to frame these photos in my human attempt to capture time.

The January Jiggles

2009-01-12T11:29:00.007-05:00

I did it. I followed through. I got on my treadmill this morning. I was determined that this would be the morning I started taking care of the doughnut ring around my middle. I got out my exercise shorts and laced up the Nikes. With Wizzy biting at my laces, I found the workout music that would put me in the zone for zooming. A few phone calls set me back time wise. I put Wiz in the kennel with a chew. The treadmill was dusty but after the cobwebs were cleaned and the clothes removed from the handlebars , I finally stood on the machine itself. It had been awhile. With all my breathing problems, I had not used it in over a year. I forgot how to start it. After that problem was resolved, Gretchen and I sang to Redneck Woman. Before we hit the last verse , the batteries went dead in the CD player. I came back up and changed them and went back down to start over. I was half way through when I realized I had forgotten to bring some water. Back upstairs for that. I figured going up and down the staircase has to at least count for a warm up. I am proud to say that I did finally finish the first day of my morning cardio.
I had a healthy breakfast full of fibre then I went outside to pick up cayenne peppered poo ( see post below.)
Day 1. Hopefully by June, the jig will be up on the January jiggles.

Chocapoopoo

2009-01-09T19:32:00.004-05:00

That cute little hairy face in the post below has discovered the delicacy of feces eating. It started about two weeks ago. Wizard was outside for a bathroom break. He loves to lift his leg in the white snow and watch how it changes colors and catches the light. It has been so cold that he is never out for longer than 5 minutes. Usually when he is called, he comes a-running like a bat out of hell in anticipation of his " I did my pee outside treat". This one day , I called and he nonchalantly glanced my way and continued to dig at his buried treasure. I went out to see what was drawing his attention and there he was , my little sweetheart, his head in a pile of frozen turd. It was not his own. It was Karma's pile. Large and quite frozen. I grabbed the little sh** , and with a stern voice gave the "No " word. I wanted Wizzy to know that this was indeed a definite bad thing to do and that good little doggies do not eat poop. At least he was discriminatory and did not eat his own poo. I try to pick up every day so that Wizzy never gets the chance to find and do the taste test on any more fudgicles. One afternoon the dogs ran out together. Karma running to her spot near the tree with Wiz running frantically behind her barking away at her heels. Wait for me. Karma ran back and forth , did the circle dance , and then I saw her humping her back getting ready to dump the load. Horror of horrors . Underneath her curved up tail , was a little gleeful face waiting and ready to grab a chunk of always fresh.
I ran out ....."NOOOOOOOOOOoooooooooooooooooooooooooo."
Both dogs looked at me like I had lost my mind. Inside they went and outside I went with my shovel.
It is going be a long winter. I am determined to win the poop Olympics.

Howliday Fashions

2009-01-07T12:55:00.010-05:00

" Ma said they sold outta Santa so I had to take second base in elfin green ...."
"All decked out for the dance ."
"Champagne anyone?"
I will be the first to admit that dogs in clothes really use to irritate me. I mean the good Lord gave them a fur coat for a reason, right ? Then Wiz came along and changed my entire way of thinking about doggie fashion. My first purchase was that T shirt that read "bad to the bone". Like all kids , he has long out grown that one. As the weather got colder, his wardrobe increased. Little red plaid woolies and blue suede jackets now adorn his 4 pound body when he ventures out into the great outdoors. I never thought I would ever be a dog dressing Mama. When I hold Wiz in public I always feel the need to say that I have a 70 pound German shepherd home at home. Guess it makes me feel like a real woman. The groomer explained that having warm outfits for Wizzy that protected his heart and lungs from the cold was a health issue and not just a fashion one. Yorkshire terriers do not have fur but hair so which makes the little guys more susceptible to temperatures below zero. I have to admit Wiz loves the great outdoors whether he is out naked or not.
So there you have it . I have become a dog dresser. And I love it .
We did the holiday in elfin green and the New Year was black tie.
I am eyeing the black Harley T for the spring.
Byte me .

Vita Nova

2009-01-06T13:51:00.005-05:00

"Vita Nova " is Latin for " new life " or "new beginnings". Nothing says new beginning like a new born baby. This is a sneak peak of baby Merrick that I managed to photograph despite the parental protests of no paparazzi. He is a beautiful boy and the pride and joy of his family. Thinking of babies , it will not be long before our own Ms. T. will be cradling her own bundle of joy. Bringing new life into this world is an immense responsibility as well as an infinite labor of love . This is also a time when people think of resolutions for a "vita nova". I have never been one to make resolutions but this year I have decided that at least one is long overdue .
It is actually the same as Oprah's resolution . It is not about weight .
It is about love .
To love myself enough in order to take better care of myself. To put myself on the list of people I love. I have always thought that was such a vain and selfish thing. Now I know better .
I might pedicure my feet more , manicure my hands more , buy something frivolous just because I want too, travel more, read more, rest more, bike more, walk more , talk more , laugh more ... and most importantly ,
live more.
It is 2009. Time passes and waits for no man ..or woman.
It is about balance . It is about time .

A Toast To 2009

2008-12-31T15:56:00.001-05:00

The Second Breakdown

2008-12-30T07:49:00.005-05:00

The second breakdown was a direct result of the first. Again , it involved my older daughter. A few days before , Dawn had mentioned Christmas stockings. I said I just can't do stockings without Natalie here this year. I should have mentioned that fact earlier as she walked in Christmas morning with a bag of goodies. Just before we sat down, my eldest made her signature Christmas morning coffee laced with orange liquor and orange garnish. Being that I had just laced myself with orange juice a mere hour before that made the coffee drink all that more poignant.
As I began to open the stocking bag, I heard my own voice crack up "I never got you a stocking. I am such a bad mother ..". It did not matter to my daughter one way or the other but I felt it was an issue worth crying over and I did. I blubbered throughout most of the stocking stuff. My saving grace was the waterproof mascara. To make matters worse inside the stocking was an orange chocolate, orange bubble bath, orange lip gloss, etc etc . That set me off again. I was in my own personal citrus hell.
As the gifts unwrapped and the dinner came to a close , I finally felt more relaxed. The wine helped me reach that mellow yellow stage.
Screw Oprah. Screw Martha Stewart. It was over.
Until ...
Just before my daughter's boyfriend left the house he said these parting words ,
"Orange you glad we're leaving .."

Ma's Christmas Morning Meltdown

2008-12-29T07:49:00.007-05:00

I lost it at approximately 10:15 Christmas morning Eastern Standard Time. I lost it and I blame Oprah for it. Let me backtrack. I like to be organized , and I was. The house looked festive. The gifts were all bought and wrapped. All the extra food necessities were in the cupboard. I had printed off the cornbread, vegetarian stuffing recipe for Dawn recommended by Oprah instead of the sausage stuffing. The bird had been defrosting for 2 days in the refrigerator downstairs as per the health guidelines. The turnip and potatoes were prechopped in cold water the day before. I had made my list and checked it twice. All was well.
I woke up rested and ready for Christmas Day feeling prepared for the annual holiday dinner. There would be no nuking today. I relaxed , had my coffee, and fed the dogs. I was ready for Oprah's recipe. It was fairly simple to do, a little chopping, and it would be in the oven for 45 min at 350 in plenty of time for the turkey around 11am . Let the games begin. Rereading the recipe , I noted the ingredients were maxed on the plus side. Getting my chopper out , I thought to myself no wonder Oprah is gaining weight. Two minutes into the chopping , the chopper broke. Not a problem . Get the knife out. I had plenty of time. Chop.Chop.Chop. Lots of carrots in this stuffing. Chop. Chop. Wizzy was barking for a treat so I threw him a teeny piece of carrot . Healthy for growing puppies. Chop.Chop. Next came the celery. Stalks up. There were plenty of those too. Wish the chopper had not broken . Chop. Chop. Onions. Sliced . I should have halved this recipe. Watching the clock. Continued chopping and slicing. Wine ? I needed a cup of white wine. Found the bottle . Got out the wine opening gadget . Threw Wiz another a piece of carrot. Opened the bottle . Measured and poured . Resisted the wine taste temptation. Wizzy barking . Threw the little bastard a carrot. Got out my pan to saute the veggies. Turned the stove on. Added my ingredients. The pan was too small and ended up in the sink . Found a larger pan. Barking. Threw some carrots on the floor . Sauted the rest . Four cups of broth ? In the cupboard. Checking the time, I knew I needed this stuffing in the oven pronto. Hurry it up. Spice it up. Read , read. Chop, chop, saute and bark. Wizzy shutup .
I needed a cup of orange juice . How will all this liquid ever absorb? Oprah must have drank that bottle of wine . I debated that same thought. Pushing Wiz off my slipper, I reached for the orange juice . That is when it happened. In slow movie motion the box of Tropicana fell over. It poured onto the glass shelving. The orange juice flooded the food below like orange lava.
And it fell over me ...over my hair, my new gray , satin , la Senza jammies , down my top , in my pants , my slippers, onto Wizzy and the clean Christmas floor.
The phone rang . It was N@. "Merry Christmas Mama !" .
That is precisely when I lost it. I cried . I laughed . I cried again. Uncontrollably. I was juiced, sticky from head to toe. Between sobs, I explained. N@ kindly understood the stuffing saga and agreed to call later on that night.
Things did eventually right themselves . After all, it was the happiest time of the year. The kitchen got cleaned up . The stuffing for 50 servings and the turkey made it into the oven in time for Christmas dinner.
I showered ....and no one even knew about the acid rash on my chest.
The lesson learned: Be prepared for the unexpected and most importantly , what I know for sure ... always opt to drink the wine.

My Christmas Wish List

2008-12-24T07:13:00.009-05:00

Two of my very favorite Christmas Wishes .

Each of us has a list . For some the list is long , lengthy and often expensive . For others , it is simply a warm place to sleep and a hearty meal . When my daughters were young , their Santa lists consisted of easy bake ovens and cabbage patch dolls. As parents , we always did our best to make their dreams come true. Late night wrappings and baking frenzies took up a lot of my time as a young mother. I was always lucky that every year, I had my children safe beside me. This is the first year that one of my daughters will not be home for the holidays. I am not sad although I will miss her presence and her ability to make me laugh against all odds . I am not sad for many reasons . My sister has a son in Korea who will not make it home for not one but two Christmases. They plan to use skype to stay connected over the holidays . There are other families whose children are stationed far away in war torn lands with no connection at all. Still others have someone in a hospital that they visit though the parent cannot connect to who they are. There are those who only have a picture to remind them that someone once sat in that empty chair . That is why I am not sad . There are so many families who through no wishes of their own cannot spend the holiday together.
I am very blessed.
When I think of my list, I think of things I cannot touch. Things like love , health, hope and peace.
Today, you may read the words on this page , but more than that , my Christmas wish is that you feel the words.
Merry Christmas to You and Yours ,
Love ,
Ma

Bing Crosby - I'll Be Home For Christmas

2008-12-23T19:52:00.002-05:00

This Christmas song takes on special meaning , as we watch the many news reports of weary travelers looking for any means possible to beat the cold and wintry weather to be home for the holidays. Looking exhausted after many flight delays , a young man lifted his luggage and muttered one word "Home ."

One For The Dogs

2008-12-22T22:45:00.001-05:00

Snow Fetish

2008-12-21T14:48:00.002-05:00

There are those of us who are upfront and honest about their snow fetishes . There are others who continue to deny that shoveling snow has always been one of their hidden passions .
I heard that Montreal is in snow dumping as I type this . The falling white stuff continues to mesmerize one certain someone who is at this moment licking the flakes off her patio door with her two chihuahuas.I only have one thing to say to you ..
"Let it snow . Let it snow . Let it snow !"

Gene Autry - Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

2008-12-21T07:43:00.001-05:00

We love the concept of reindeer pulling Santa's sleigh . The story of Rudolph leading the way despite his disability proved that no matter what others thought , you could end up a leader in life . In reality , most red noses during the holidays are directly related to hangovers.

Jimmy Boyd - I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus

2008-12-20T18:59:00.002-05:00

When my Dad would play this old Christmas song , we would laugh and snicker but never quite understood it until we got a little older. We all knew what mistetoe was but I mean , how could our Mommy kiss Santa Claus ?

Dedicated to My Friends Shawn and Didier

2008-12-19T16:12:00.004-05:00

Tis the night before Christmas and all through the town,
every shelter is full - we are lost but not found,
Our numbers are hung on our kennels so bare,
we hope every minute that someone will care,
They'll come to adopt us and give us the call,
"Come here, Max and Sparkie - come fetch your new ball!!
But now we sit here and think of the days
we were treated so fondly - we had cute, baby ways.
Once we were little, then we grew and we grew,
now we're no longer young and we're no longer new.

So out the back door we were thrown like the trash,
they reacted so quickly - why were they so rash?
We "jump on the children:, "don't come when they call",
we "bark when they leave us", "climb over the wall."
We should have been neutered, we should have been spayed,
now we suffer the consequence of the errors THEY made.
If only they'd trained us, if only we knew,
we'd have done what they asked us and worshiped them, too.
We were left in the backyard, or worse - left to roam,
now we're tired and lonely and out of a home.
They dropped us off here and they kissed us good-bye,
"Maybe someone else will give you a try."

So now here we are, all confused and alone,
in a shelter with others who long for a home.
The kind workers come through with a meal and a pat,
with so many to care for, they can't stay to chat,
They move to the next kennel, giving each of us cheer,
we know that they wonder how long we'll be here.
We lay down to sleep and sweet dreams fill our heads,
of a home filled with love and our own cozy beds.
Then we wake to see sad eyes, brimming with tears,
our friends filled with emptiness, worry, and fear.

If you can't adopt us and there's no room at the Inn ,
could you help with the bills and fill our food bin?
We count on your kindness each day of the year,
can you give more than hope to everyone here?
Please make a donation to pay for the heat
and help get us something special to eat.
The shelter that cares for us wants us to live,
and more of us will, if more people will give.

___________________________________

Please, even if you can't adopt a kitty, cat, dog or pup from a shelter, TRY to bring something to make their holidays a little more special. They are there all alone, probably in the cold. Bring some old dog food or cat food, or an old leash from one of your dogs. Make their day a lil' extra special. They deserve it!

__________________

Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree - Brenda Lee

2008-12-19T06:25:00.002-05:00

As a teenager, this was the song we danced too around the Christmas tree. I was on my itunes the other day and noted that Brenda Lee's song is still played by a new generation of holiday downloaders . Of course , it could be the baby boomers still rockin' after all these years .

Gene Autry - Frosty the Snowman

2008-12-18T07:14:00.001-05:00

When we were kids we never had much of a radio. One old record I recall my Dad putting on for us was this cowboy singing about that snowman that could walk and sing . My brothers , sister and I would all dance around the house just like Frosty.
Still a classic after all these years .

Bing Crosby-I'm Dreaming Of A White Christmas

2008-12-17T15:06:00.002-05:00

My Dad loves to sit with his walkman , relax on his lazyboy , and listen to some Christmas music . He has always loved Bing Crosby and this song in particular .
I am gonna play DJ for a day and dedicate this number to my Dad .

..and don't worry Dad , our Christmas will most definitely be white .

Merrick Alexander

2008-12-16T09:55:00.003-05:00

... came into the world this morning at 7 pounds , 5 ounces . The new and only grandson of my best friend. She has not one but three grand daughters so this little fellow will have to find his place amongst the alpha females .
N.B. Looks like he might have red hair !

How Ma Crashed A Toddler Christmas Concert

2008-12-15T12:27:00.008-05:00

Toddlers a toddling ..
Proud Daddy and his girl .

My best friend's grandaughter was in her first Christmas concert on Saturday. I was invited to attend and take a few pictures of the prestigious event. It seemed like yesterday my own kids were singing Christmas carols and reciting poems. The concert was held at the Y.M.C.A. building and by the time I arrived ,there was not a parking spot to be seen. Every proud parent and their relatives had been there earlier than I. No need to rush. I knew I had a seat saved for me. I turned around up the street and came back again and lo and behold I found a parking space. I pulled up in front of a driveway and put my vehicle into reverse. Checked my mirrors , looked back , and proceeded to back into the space beyond the driveway. Crunchy crunchy bang bang. What the fa la la was that? I got out of my truck and what to my wondering eyes should appear but a little beige Jeep and a very irate ( but later quite nice) black man.The headlight on his Jeep was broken .The irate, but later quite nice black man , bellowed at me "I was honking . I was honking" . I quite calmly replied "I am deaf, and you can't just honk and move behind a moving vehicle just because you want to use the driveway to turn around .. "Later on he admitted he was late and thought I was already parked. We exchanged numbers and names and walked into the concert together. No one was hurt except for a little injured pride on both sides. As we went to our seats, you could almost here the whisper * the accident people *.
The law says I am at fault for backing up even though he cut me off from behind. Rightfully so.
Good news is the Ho Ho Hoe was not damaged ( I was going very slow ..)
The kids were excited and happy. The grand daughter was cute. The parents were proud. The lunch was yummy. Santa & Mrs Claus gave out presents.
... and that is how I crashed the toddler Christmas concert.
The crunchy crunchy bang bang .