Memories

Remember when you were attending the Boys and Girls Club, Jessica. Years before that my Mother had attended programs at the Club.

This picture is in the newest part as you head into the older part where the ball room is.

Nice to see her smiling face each time I go. Makes me think of them often. All good thoughts.

Had a busy day starting there on Thursday. Bus pickup at 9, Stitch and Knit and Chat, toe nails cut, bact to SKC till swimming at 11. Afterwards I had a lovely roast beef dinner with mashed potatoes, mixed veg, thick rice pudding and my drink for $6.00. Bev met me for lunch and then we went shopping at various spots including Michael's where they had some lovely yarn on sale for $2 a ball instead of the usual $5 to $6. I bought the 3 I needed for some hedgehogs and that was it. Finished the afternoon with a Chiro appointment.



Trying not to start too many new projects as I would really like to get some finished off. Thought I would use up my yarn I already have for the hedgehogs but always seem to need some to finish them. Will get to the point where the yarn gets diverted to other projects as soon as I get my mental list completed of those I want to make one for. Right now that stands at 6. Think that 15 will be enough of them to make.

I think that I'll get lots of knitting done in the next few weeks but I can barely concentrate on writing today. Temp in the house had gone to 60F so I think I'm going back to bed until it warms up.

Don't be too surprised if I don't write again until well into February. 3 more sleeps until surgery and another 3 to 5 before I am home again and probably a few more before I want to sit up at the desktop computer where there is internet service.

Take care and enjoy life.

Finished Items

Had a very nice supper with Heather at Boston Piazza - her choice. Was nice as David decided to come also. Seemed very short but I am not up to sitting for very long. (I have cut my medicine to one pill a day so need more frequent lay-downs so I can keep functioning.)

It had started lightly snowing so the location was an easy drive for her. Was glad to hear their syncro swim team came 2nd in their meet in Toronto on Saturday. They have really improved in the year or so they have been together. Their next meet is in February in Waterloo but a bit too early for me to attend. Would love to see her one time.

Gave her the choice of purses and she liked both so home they went with her. One is a binder size bag that has been felted. It has 3 cables up the front. The yarn is Alafoss Lopi made by Istex in Iceland. 2 100 gm balls made the 2 purses and a small drawstring one for my cell phone. Thought I could wear it the small one or tie it to my walker for when I am alone when I come home.Heather's other purse is a smaller, more dressier style with cables up each side and forming the handle. Left it to her to felt or not. She has a top loading machine so it will be much, much easier for her. (The stripes behind it is the gift bag they went into.)Of course, I had to give her something in Western colours of purple and white as I usually do that at Christmas. This year she got a hedgehog for her birthday. Too bad the color is showing more blue than purple.

Have so many projects and so little time. Have to organize some for in hospital. Guess it will be my bamboo scarf and some socks are they are the smallest.

Had my Gentle Fit swim today which I certainly enjoy. Got some more clothes sorted and rearranged today but speed is certainly lacking. Want to have it done before Thursday night as I plan to go off all my meds by then. The hospital recommends 5 days before but I will have reduced the amounts for 6 days and none for 3 days. That is the best I can do if I want to function and get some things done before Sunday.

Had a nice phone call from my Sister this afternoon. Have only had one 2 line email since Christmas so was pleased to catch up with her. They have bought a larger trailer with a large Florida room. It is only 3 trailers from where they are parked this year so it will still be very convenient and will provide more room when visitors go next year. They will use the trailer they took down for the jamborees and weekends in Ontario.

My TV shows starting so think I'll get settled and get some knitting done.

Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday

First, to my first born – Flit – a very happy birthday.
As the first born, she got to teach her parents how to be parents, to be the first to do things and to set the standards and benchmark for the other 2 children. What we learned with her did not necessarily translate to what the others required or wanted or needed. They did manage to find some “different” firsts but life is more interesting with the differences.
Flit will also be the first to graduate from University. It is not an easy commitment to make as you can read on her blog but she is working on it. Hopefully this will be completed soon. No one needs her stress level for very long but she has a good goal and I am very proud of her.
Since I won’t see you today, Flit, here is a picture of your birthday present – a mobius scarf as requested. Hope you like the color and design. It will come wrapped around a hedgehog in natural colours unless you want to specify a school color set. Princess and I couldn’t decide which colours or which school. Hope you have some time for yourself today, a marvellous celebration and a fantastic year ahead.

Second: birthday wishes to the second child of the second child of the second child in my family – Heather
(I love seeing all the seconds involved.)
A very special birthday wish as you resume University study after your year of work. I know you have clarified some ideas and gained a new perspective on your studies and goals.
Hope you have a great day, celebrations with friends, a successful competition on Saturday that you are pleased with, and I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
Here is a hint of the present you will receive when I see you.

Looking Ahead

Alright, what flowers should I plant in this new addition to our back yard? Always nice to plan and look ahead to lovely summer flowers on a cold, grey, wintery day.

This is what greated me when I arrived home yesterday. Achy and tired, it did not seem that unreasonable at the time.

Bev and I travelled up Tuesday afternoon leaving about 3 as it looked like it was going to start snowing. The temperature had dropped and there were some grey clouds with light snowflurries in the south edge of town. We actually had mostly clear skies and no snow on our trip to Cambridge. Our hotel was the second one south of the 401 so extremely easy to get to. Had a very nice room with the use of a swimming pool and hot tub. As you can guess we thoroughly enjoyed both although the pool was on the cool side. Would never do for Sister.

A big shopping area is across the road from the hotel so we went over there to Montana's for supper. It was a nice change as we haven't been there very often even though there is now one in London across the road from where Son used to work.

Light snow overnight which blew off the car very easily. Had to be to the hospital by 7:30 so I just grabbed a Danish on the way by. Bev got to go back, have a nice breakfast and a short nap. I got to see a nurse, give blood, have X-rays taken and then downstairs for an ECG. Everyone nice and friendly and moved me in the wheelchair with only one wait.

Went to the Fifties Diner for lunch - a place we really enjoy that has good, home-cooked styled food with large portions. I had the Montreal Smoked Meat platter with 6 slices of rye bread, cole slaw, french fries and enough meet for 4 meals for $8.95. And their deserts are great. Only complaint is that the fries are not home made.

Went to Mary Maxim's afterwards and did fairly well at not buying much. Only 2 items weren't on sale and my bill was almost half of Bev's so did very well.

By the time we reached the house, however, around my waist was so sore that I could barely move. I had only one thought on my mind and that was to get to bed. That is when I saw the outside addition. Inside there was the following --

overall it is about 2" higher than the old one. Yesterday that was the best present I could imagine. Son had decided it would be better in the long run even after I could do away with the plastic seat addition. He is so very thoughtful! And he called on his way home to see if I had eaten. At that point in time, I couldn't have cared less about getting something to eat although I was getting hungry. He brought home some lovely Thai food so I was thoroughly spoiled.

I am including a picture of the "picture" that Flit gave me for Christmas. When you take the back off, the center part is a lovely broach with a timepiece in it. The small box with the pieces of yarn stays in the frame. She bought it at a craft show that she had attended. It is so different, so appropriate and so very much me that I am just delighted with it. As yet, I haven't been anywhere I consider appropriate to wear it so it sits near my TV so I can see it easily. I am looking ahead to when I can wear it.

Getting Ready

Getting ready to go swimming this morning but going to try and get an entry done.

Had the car yesterday so managed to get some errands done. Not all, of course, but some.

There had been ice overnight but the roads were clear and it didn't start getting bad until evening rush hour. Drove Son to work and them home for the morning. Just out for the afternoon.

Got another basket and some items at the dollar store. Everything on one side of the bed is organized and the new basket is holding goodies and knitting that is all I want to allow on the bed. I have been known to pile half the bed mile high with books, knitting, clothes, etc. so this is much better. Sure helps to be able to get to my clothes racks. (By the way, Mandy's Mom, wore the 4th pair of pants I put on yesterday and the first 3 went in the "get rid of" pile. Hope you are proud of me. Now I just have to keep doing that for the next week or two. LOL)

Got my hair cut very, very short. It looks very nice even this morning after sleeping overnight. Go to my niece Shantel as she is an excellent hairdresser. Fits it in between 3 sons and husband and hockey and parents and all. Enjoy the time visiting her.

Have had a hunger for piazza so stopped before I got home to get a large vegetarian. It was starting to snow when I came out which was not too nice over the remains of the earlier ice made walking and driving a bit of a hazard. Made it home safely and Son walked up the driveway just after me so didn't even have to carry my things into the house.

Son was on the computer most of the evening after going out for a few minutes. Not sure of the status of the router so will just wait until I am told it is working. He has an exam Saturday so probably was studying for that.

Off this afternoon to Cambridge with Bev. Staying at a hotel with swimming pool so I don't have to worry about driving up tomorrow morning for a 8 am appointment. Pre-op at the hospital with blood work, X-rays, etc. I certainly didn't want to drive home afterwards. Hope the weather stays good for driving. Want everything to go with less hassel than Flit is having for the first week of school.

Step Closer

Had a great time yesterday with a meeting of our Red Hat Group. Met at the Red Lobster as we had missed our December gathering so needed something special. We also had a new member who seems so very nice and really got in the spirit of the group by bowing when we met. I like that! It ended up that we were there for 2 hours but weren't too noisy so there was no problem. Apparently the manager on duty is the son of one of our group so that helped.

Mention was made of hats on for $10 at Sears so Audry and I ended up going over. They were red mellon with a black or purple ribbon and bow around the brim. Figured we could add our own decoration either with or without the band to make them look different. Also I bought 2 bathing suits on sale for under $20 each. They keep well and I will probably need them before the summer.

Son called while I was taking Audry home asking how long the luncheon would be. I don't know why 4 o'clock seemed unusual for the end of a luncheon but apparently he was home and wanted the car. I thought he was off at 4:30 so I hadn't been concerned about the car.

When I did make it home I heard from him as I had 2 bags with me and he doesn't want more "stuff" brought into the house. I never had to account to his Dad so don't know why he thinks I am going to account to or listen to him.

Did ask him to get me a memory stick when he was out. When he came home much later after doing his running around he did bring back a memory card reader and a memory card. Now I can get my files transferred onto my computer so I can add to them and manage them better. So my ideal computer setup is now a step closer. Just need access to the internet and I'll be all set.

Oh yes, he also bought home a new Ipod Notebook for himself and will not discuss the price with me. Kids!

Heather's Fault

Heather came back from Alberta on Sunday and was very disappointed that we did not have any snow for her. She had bought new boots and had enjoyed the snow and skating and outdoor activities in Edmonton. Her car had sat in my yard for the time she was away so that if there had been snow, her covered car would not be an advertisement that she was not there to use it. I used it to pick her up and she drove it home.

Monday – there was snow. Only a small amount but enough to cover the ground.

It is all Heather’s fault. I certainly did not want to see any snow until Febuary and I have to stay indoors.

There is not enough snow to disrupt traffic so I will be joining Bev and some friends to go to Kitchener tonight to hear The Yarn Harlot at the K-W Guild. Very much looking forward to it as I enjoy her blog, books, and when I heard her the time she was here in London.

Today is the first day back for my swimming and just waiting for the bus now. Certainly looking forward to the warm water and don’t even care too much that it is only for ½ hour. Better than nothing at this point.

Blogger would not let me post when I completed the entry so it is now just after midnight and I am home from Kitchener. There was some blowing snow, some snow covered roads and a very strong cross wind. Certainly not as bad as some times we have driven it but not as nice as it could have been.

The guild now has 218 members and there were 63 visitors present due to word of mouth and people reading Stephanie's blog I am sure. It was nice to see that it is going so well. Also nice to see how the library has grown and the organization they have for it. The shelves were just a vague idea in my time.

Was sorry to hear of the death of Sally Laidlaw. She was a very nice lady, organized the Knitter's Fair and had a great sense of humour. She had been a member of the guild since the very start, I believe. The guild, by the way, started in 1986.

Stephanie was her usual delightful self and caused a lot of agreement within the group. How often have people thought less of our abilities when they find out we knit. Just trying to explain why so much yarn is required! I like the idea of considering knitting to be a sport which also ends the debate as to whether or not it is a craft or art. Have also noticed the other day that her newest book can be advanced ordered so must consider getting it. Just a question as to whether to have it shipped to London or the States.

I certainly hope she had a good trip back to Toronto and that the weather was not quite as bad as we had coming westerly through the snow belt. Like many people, Kitchener streets had proved to be a challenge. The main street, King Street, runs North South East and West. It also runs parallel to Weber Street yet crosses it at 2 locations. Apparently she had to call for further directions on her way into town.

Since I want the car tomorrow (actually later this morning), guess I better head for bed. Thought Son had to be at work for 8:30 but he says it is 7:30. Thank goodness for my nap this afternoon!

Useless Day

Got to go to the surgeon yesterday. Drive 1 1/2 hours to sign 2 pieces of paper and let him listen to my chest again. Some of the joy of having the surgery in another city.

Have to go to the hospital on January 17th at 8:00 A.M. Does anyone realize how early I have to get up at to ensure I am there in time? Certainly hope this gorgeous sunny weather holds. Have to work out about a drive but going to wait awhile before I think about that.

Delivered some items to Sylvia in St. Jacobs so we got our fix of apple fritters and a very extravagant, lovely meal at Benjamins.

When home I tried to copy some files onto a CD disk. Want to get them onto my laptop and use the CDs as backup for my files. (I am doing an index of my books and patterns so there is quite a lot of work I want to keep.) Disk drive won't write to the disk even though they are brand new ones I just bought. Screaming but not as loud as Flit yesterday. If Son would find one of his USBs I could just copy over the info that way but he is too focused on his first week of his having to train someone.

Tried to get some knitting done as eldest and a grand-niece have birthdays on the 19th . Managed 2 rows on 1 of the 3 projects. All in all, not a satisfying day.

Went to my family doctor this morning and got my flu shot. Had him looked at my one eye to see about the large blister like thing in the corner. It is just a cyst and a specialist would have to knick it to drain it for cosmetic reasons only. Other similar looking blisters are stys(?) and I don't have to worry about them. Feel more comfortable about it. They will take my staples out if required. Just have to bring in the remover that the hospital should provide before I am discharged. Made an appointment for my 2007 annual. Last year it was April - this year it will be December 13. Last time I remember that date it was a Friday and we were flying home after 5 years in Germany. Husband had gone overseas expecting to die in a car accident and not make it back to Canada; the car we were using that week wouldn't start, got it towed and the front bumper fell off; handed the last of 12 pairs of mittens to the Minister for a missionary family; the flight was an hour late arriving from Canada and several more hours late leaving due to mechanical problems; we had to sit beside the wings of a turbo jet so we didn't hear clearly for 3 days afterwards - but we made it to Canada in one piece so guess that is all that matters. Think I will remember the date easily for my appointment but will have to mark down the time.

Think I should pull my knitting out and see if I can turn this into a more useful day.

Update

Got pictures added for my Christmas entry. Had to do them one at a time which is very slow and ties up the phone line longer. As if there were a lot of people waiting to call me!

Did get a call from the Chiro's office this morning to see when I wanted an appointment so had one today. Feel so much better since I have been missing them and then with no swimming and sleeping in a "different" bed, I certainly needed something. Spoke to Dr. Roberts about the surgery so will plan another appointment the week before the operation. Will see how I am feeling to decide for any afterwards.

Watched some Bowl games yesterday and got the fronts for 2 hedgehogs done. Would like to use up as much of the yarn as I can. Friend Bev talks about having Craft Sales or going to a market so figure she can always try to sell them for me.

She now has a house phone and internet so must get a listing of some sites for her. Will have to remember to add my own.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Start of another year with no resolutions except to live each day to the fullest. Hope everyone had a great holiday season and is looking forward with anticipation to the coming year and the great things I am sure it will bring.

Had a lovely dinner at the Centre and will definitely sign up earlier next year. Great visit with daughter who picked us up after so we didn't have to worry about parking.

Son has finished his 3 weeks of training and will be out at his first asignment this week. It sounds like he is enjoying it. Name of the company is Nexient which I must try to remember. One of the other people who worked this territory has been offered work with the Post Office. That means more opportunity for him to have more full time work.

December 18 he got to attend Grandson's birthday party in Toronto. Turned out I was the only one from the family who wasn't there. Restaurant is downstairs so wouldn't even consider it this year. Maybe in a few months.

Mandy's Mom came for me on the Friday before Christmas. Traffic was very heavy as guess a lot of people took the day off to get travelling. Only forgot one or two very minor things so did very well packing. Can manage a few days without a watch.


Mandy had arranged for one string of lights. While decorating with Daddy it was obvious that one string was not enough so this was the result. He even bought some snow for the trees.

Every Christmas Eve the children are allowed to open one present each -- pjs of course. Some even model their presents in front of the tree that she choose on their tree cutting expedition. For a number of years they have gone out with some friends to cut down their own trees. Another holiday tradition that I really like for them.

And then there are children who, if you are lucky, will hold them up.

Another tradition we have is that I made him a stocking when he was born and put some embroidery on it. Every year since I have added a button or charm that has some meaning to them. Mandy also got a stocking when she was born although she doesn't like the fact she doesn't have as much on it as Alex does. This year we had gone with their Mom and 2nd Granddaughter to see Happy Feet. Their "addition" this year was 6 button penguins for Happy Feet, Mandy turned 6 and Alex passed the 6' mark.

Easy to tell who got the most toys. Got several that made "music" so the day was not quiet by any means. Several Barbies and 4 "Collector" dolls which pleased her.

The turkey was to be cooked the day before Christmas but didn't get done. Had lots of lovely seafood that night and the hot turkey dinner on Christmas Day. Kids weren't up till 8:30 a.m. (didn't have Grandma nearby to encourage them) but that was plenty early for me this year. Had a great time, kids liked their gifts, and I got lots of lovely things - much more than I expected. Mandy's Sunday Mom and her Mom came for Christmas dinner. Food was great, there was lots of it, and we had a very nice visit. Sorry I didn't get a picture of them as would be a nice memory. They really added to the specialness of Christmas.

The eldest and youngest granddaughters with their "personalized" Hedgehogs and Christmas Day silliness. Alex's is maroon and blue for Colorado Avalanch and Jessa's is for the Toronto Maple Leafs. A hit with all 4. Made another 4 for the girls that consider my son their special friend. 2 don't have theirs as yet and the other 2 were a big hit with the girls. Asked for a picture of each girl with theirs as a special record for me.

Boxing day Flit, Ross and Granddaughter #1 arrived so more gifts to open. Mandy's Daddy's Dad and Stepmother also came. As per tradition, Ross bought Chinese Food for everyone. The nice weather sure made it easy for travelling but didn't help the traditional "White Christmas" theme.

Boxing Day silliness with a new use for all the bows. Didn't work well for sitting down so they did get back to Grandma Pat to use again. She always wraps the gifts lovely where I use newspapers and plastic bags. Have Mandy trained now to look at the wrapping for a clue as to who gave her the present.

Mandy and her Mom brought me home on Thursday and my house proceeded to get turned upside down. Son had activities out of the house for Mandy and when my friend Bev showed up we got sent out also. Mandy's Mom had promised to rearrange the spare room and my bedroom for a Christmas present. Had been feeling very uncertain about some of this so she promised that she wouldn't throw anything out. She didn't but there are still 6 bags of garbage outside. I can now see things and they are all together so it makes it much easier for me to sort and purge. Am really delighted with how things look and am certainly going to try my best to keep it that way. They went home on Saturday after lunch.

Saturday is also of note because Son took his cat Spun to the vet. He had her for 15 years but she has been suffering with arthritis and going blind. She has been getting progressively worse so Saturday was the day. I am not a pet person but feel very sorry that the end has come. I am also very sorry for Son as she was such a part of his life for so very long. He goes to Milton friends for New Years each year so will give him a break.

Now to do some knitting, watch some Bowl games and eat some good food. Tomorrow I can start sorting clothes, doing some mending and other necessary things.

Hope the New Year is all you hope for.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

No snow but gathering presents stored in several places around the house. Even started wrapping them and have most of that done. Not knitting much this year but well on my way with it. Certainly not stressing about it as they would be "bonus" gifts and not the main items.

Went for supper with some of the ladies from where I used to work. Really enjoyed getting together with them and the good meal at the Keg. Sorry not to see the ones who couldn't make it but maybe another time. Apparently they have offered some buyouts and will be laying off a number of people. The joys of working in the automotive industry.

Later today have a turkey dinner with wine at the Senior Centre so also looking forward to that. Mandy's Mom is in town for a short while so will see her after lunch. Maybe she will even take some of the wrapped gifts home with her and then I don't have to worry about getting them to her house and what Son might say. Was suppose to cut way down with gifts this year and have done pretty well. About a third or more are things I had bought before last Christmas. Give 7 cookbooks each year and didn't buy any at all this year. Will have 1 to put aside for next year even. Not buying towels which was one thing I always bought but to get 10 decent towels gets to be too much.

Heard from Heather and hope to get together with her soon. Maybe she'll come to Port Huron on Saturday. Have to get my mail picked up and found out something I can get for the Grandson. He will be 15 on Monday and knows what he wants for clothes. Don't mind giving him money for one gift but would like to get him something for the other. So now I can go shopping for him after a talk with his Mom.

Had gone to bed when I got home tonight and watched TV for an hour or so. Slept for 3 hours then wide awake so have wrapped some more gifts, played some Solitare, read some blogs and now have done this entry. I am getting cold so rather than turn the heat up I am going to go to bed. Will turn some Christmas music on and settle down to warm up my bed. There will be plenty to do in the next few days so need my rest.

Oh yes, first thing in the morning I guess I better clear some things. Think my Son would like to have a place to sit down instead of the couch doing service as wrapping central.

Snow Day, Part 2

Just thought I would give you an update on what a few days can do.

This is the view from my front window - again with a pedestrian and car. Snow is barely to his knees now and the Postman is getting through. Has turned much warmer today so the roads sound very slushy as the cars go by.

The next picture is of the shed next door as seen from our kitchen window. Today is much greyer than the earlier picture I must admit.

Son had arranged for the young lad next door to do the sidewalks so I am very, very pleased. Now just to get it done the way I want -- like to walk the path beside the house and don't need any more than the one footpath for the last third of the laneway. Because of plants and such we rarely pull the car in any further.

Got the desk in the front room cleared off and Son moved the computer back in this weekend. I also bought a small cabinet to sit the CPU on so it gives me more desktop space AND a place to put paper supplies and such. Looks much neater now, I feel more organized AND we now again can watch TV while on the computer. Even have the light behind my chair plugged in, something that hasn't been done for the last 6 months. It is a trilight and a bendable arm light with a True Color bulb ideal for doing handwork with. Guess I better get my chair cleared off now. Thought I was going to use the table beside it for the CPU and just dumped things from it onto my chair. Move one thing and find 20 more things to do.

Working on some "mindless" knitting just now and looking like nothing is getting done so no pictures of it. Must get organized! Especially before my operation. Can do plenty of knitting then so trying now to get organized for Christmas and then.

Snow Day

Today was to be a Red Hat outing to Kitchener-Waterloo for the ChristKindl Market. Now in its 10th year I have gone a number of times and enjoyed it every time. Think it is an excellent use of the City Hall and suitable for the city that also has a huge Octoberfest event.

Nature had it's own plans however.
This was taken out my front window. No buses running today but managed to get a car going by to show the size of the drift behind it.





This is my back yard. Anyone for a swing? This is my Son's favorite spot in the summer.














For the first time ever this season, our temperature is colder than Edmonton - just by 1 degree at this time of day. Track that weather as my Sister's family are there. She ususally spends half the year there but this year she is in Florida. Gloating. Enjoying her Christmas decorations while wearing shorts and shirt sleeve tops. Swimming. Outside. And calling people up North to let them know.

I have a nice warm house, work to do, lots of knitting, lots of food - including "good" food, so other than being disappointed I'm not getting to K-W, today will be very good. Do hope the roads are clear by late this afternoon as Son is suppose to be heading back.

Did get a project done for the Red Hats but since they were for girfts, pictures will have to wait.

16

At age 16, my son got a job in Mother's, an Italian style restaurant.

After 16 years, he has now left a job at East Side Marios, an Italian style restaurant.

This is going to feel very strange for both of us. No calls at all hours with work related questions, no going in for alarms in the middle of the night, no calls from the boss to ensure certain things were done, no fixing the plumbing or leaks, no working or training on your days off, no working until 2 a.m. and due back in at 7 a.m. and so many other things that were considered just part of doing his job well.

Monday starts the new job for a training company and entails work from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with every weekend off. The hours alone are a major change. He is also getting involved in selling financial products which has been a growing interest for him in the last few years.

I am so pleased he has decided to do what feels right for him. Am also very sure he will do very well in his choosen fields.

And if not -- he can always go back to a restaurant. (Can say that here as he doesn't read my blog.)

Clarification Required

Had a phone call from my Sister. She is knitting a baby sweater but did not like the way it was working up in the yarn she had. There was some other yarn that worked to the same gauge but using a one size different needle and she was enquiring if she could do a straight substitution. Of course she could and once that was established we started talking about other matters.

When one of her great-grandsons was told of the marriage, his response was "Are they going to have any babies?" His mother didn't think so but let him call and ask directly.

Sister also didn't think so but she is knitting baby garments. Huh?

Best Wishes

"Finally, the increasingly weird actions of a loved one will make more sense."
My horoscope for today. Wonder if this would apply for the fact that while I was busy travelling and seeing the surgeon, my sister was getting married? She and Harry are spending 5 months in Florida this winter and, at a time when no family was visiting and/or advised, they got married. I have a sneaking suspicion that the plans were started several months ago but we haven't talked long enough last night when she told me for me to ask. Doesn't really matter anyway. They have been serious about each other for years and known each other for a lifetime almost so you certainly can't say they have rushed into it. They are old enough and trust both are in their right minds (Harry may question that for a defense in the future to get a rise out of her) that they know what they want. Both deserve the very best and I hope they will have many happy and healthy years together.

Now I will just have to remember to use her "new" name. The question now arises about a wedding gift as with 2 households and a trailer between them, I don't expect they need something for the house.

Spent today with Bev on a trip down to her hometown to take some things to a cousin. Was a sunny, clear day so lovely driving weather. Their house is right on the St. Clair River so a lovely view while visiting. Her cousin was very nice and welcoming. Nice opportunity to see Bev with family so really enjoyed the time. Having homemade chicken noodle soup and p0ppy seed cake sure didn't hurt either.

Got about an inch done on my green socks. Not much to see on the drive but haven't been that way for a couple of years so didn't knit the full time going. No knitting on the way back as it was too dark.

Good health, good wishes and good knitting

JANUARY 29, 2007

Yes I am shouting. I am so very happy. 65 days until I have a hip operation that the doctor said should have been done 12 to 18 months ago. Yes, I am severely handicaped by the degree of arthritis and the only cure for it is an operation. Both legs are considered weak so it may take me longer to recover but it is possible that I might not need my walker or cane by next summer.
For those that are interested --
January 4, 11:15 a.m. - Preop appointment with the doctor to ensure that everything looks good for the operation.
Sometime in the next week or two after that I will have an appointment at the hospital to see it, have the blood work done, etc. Although I lived in the area (Kitchener-Waterloo) for about 10 years, I have never been to the Cambridge Hospital.
January 28 - I will get to Cambridge to stay overnight at the Travelodge, 519.622.1180, to stay overnight so I don't have to worry about getting there real early the next morning in the middle of winter.
January 29, 8:15 a.m. - have to be at the hospital and 11:15 is the time of my operation.
Will have to stay in hospital 4 or 5 days usually and, because of the additional money given for hip and knee replacements, I should be able to have physio in London either at home or at St. Joseph's Hospital.
10 to 12 days after the operation I can have the staples removed and should be back in the water a few days after that.
Will see the surgeon 6 weeks after the operation for a follow-up evaluation.

Now to start organizing my bedroom and the spare room so that my bed will become a spot for me to lie down, view TV, read and knit. (Right now I also share it with some clothes that need to be sorted and moved.) Going to organize some kits with the yarn and pattern all together for ease. Have plenty of books set aside for variety. Ordered a refurbished laptop yesterday so hopefully Son will get the router set up again before I am home afterwards. Too bad I don't have a frig and microwave beside the bed but have to do a certain amount of exercise and they are near the washroom so will be able to get to them.

Have several projects at the point where they need concentrated attention and I am not ready to give them that. I therefore had to start a pair of socks for in my purse. They are a soft green with a bit of brown in them. Would love to show them to you but Son has moved the computer to the kitchen hoping for a better phone connection so he can upgrade the computer service. The printer and camera equipment is still in the front room until he knows if things are all going to the kitchen or back to the front room. Will be a few days before that question is answered. For the past 2 weeks he has been working and/or on errands from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day. (That is not an error in the times - starts early and been working very late.) Finishes Sunday with a 4 hour exam (his day off from work), Monday his usual 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and hopefully off on Tuesday. This decision to start a new part-time job is meaning a large time commitment just now.

Further to my post about the weekend in Toronto, the one granddaughter who went with me Saturday enjoyed the show so much that she bought tickets to take the youngest granddaughter to the show. Talked with her today and she really enjoyed the show. I hope you enjoy the picture taken afterwards.

Now to get an email sent to those I know who don't read my blog. Maybe I should just tell them to come here.
Health, laughter, best wishes and happy knitting to all.

Show Time

I like free! Like most people, I think it is very nice when you get something for free.
The thought of getting tickets to not one but two shows I want to see is extraordinary. That is what happened this weekend.
Several months ago my son won a pass for two to the Blue Man Group in Toronto. Mandy's Mom picked up the tickets recently and was to go with me. Last week I got a phone call from a granddaughter who really, really wanted to see the group and asked very nicely for my ticket. I love her dearly but not that much. She asked if she could use her aunt's ticket who was in agreement with the arangement and who would still do the driving. That was fine with me.
Saturday morning I drove to Brampton with a stop in St Jacobs (yes, a bit out of my way - by about an hour) to deliver some items and ended up buying a pair of new crocs. No holes in them so will be nicer in the snow. Still managed to get to Brampton by 11. Mandy's Mom was busy having quality time with Mandy.

The finished product:

It is a swimming pool cake with loads of cookies, chocolates, and candy. Please note the diving board also. Alex had made one before Mandy was born so now it was her turn. Cookbook provided by yours truly.

Made us a bit late leaving the house and then Jessica wasn't quite ready so put us back a bit more. Thank goodness I didn't have to worry about driving, parking and such as we made it with 5 minutes to spare.
The show was fantastic! Lot of percussion music, some audience participation, and loads of laughter. Only 3 men on stage who do not talk at all, only using their eyes for expressions. I never knew that you could chew your cereal and have music. The audience at the end got wrapped in paper. All recycled paper we were told. Did buy a DVD of a show but they had the musicians on stage which I found somewhat distracting. Enjoyed the show we saw much more.
Mandy has decided that certain nights should be a special time with table cloths, "napkins" (paper towels), special drinks - wine for the adults and ginger ale for the others, AND dessert. (That is the reason for the cake) It used to be that date night was from the adults but now it includes the kids.
Sunday morning we had to be up and out of the house early for a 10 am FREE show in Toronto. Preview of Happy Feet. Well worth getting up early! Production on the show was started before March of the Penguins and takes an ecological look at saving them. You don't need kids to see the show with as there is a lot of adult humour and story and songs. Whether you remember the original songs or just enjoy how they are produced here, the songs are well integrated. The movie also teaches about the value of others who may be different. You may not realize all the lessons at the time as you might be too busy laughing and watching. The underwater swim sequence is beautiful. For me, it was a time warp to the Esther William's movies. Few others may remember them but when you see the movie, you might understand that she had the human version. I don't go to movies hardly at all and doubt I'll get any more free tickets to Happy Feet but I will be buying the movie when it comes out on DVD. Let her Aunt and Cousin take Mandy next time.
Had lunch at Ikea - like those meatballs. Also Mandy needed napkins for their next "date night".
Knitting news - got a few rows done waiting for the start of the move but that was about it. Have started something for Christmas so info about it will have to wait.
Also have some fantastic news about my son but until more details are worked out and finalized, I will also have to wait on that. Or interested parties can email me for the currant status.

Enjoy today.

Scarf is here!

Got a blog so I could do a scarf exchange and today I received my scarf. It is a long, narrow, entrelac scarf in 3 colors that is sewn to make a tube and therefore it is reversible and nice on all sides. Made of Cascade 220 (which is just coming into one of our local yarn stores), the darkest shade is the same as the arms of the knit jacket I wear each Spring and Fall. The other 2 colors are ones that I would certainly have picked for myself.

Knit by Angie, a university student at San Jose campus of USC, she also sent some local postcards and candy. And a letter introducing herself. I am so delighted and thrilled by it. Will certainly do an exchange again as I have met two very nice people from the 2 exchanges I have done. And gotten two lovely and very different scarfs.

It had been a miserable day starting with getting up to leave the house by 7 a.m. That hour has sort of disappeared from my life since retiring. Had to get Son to his couin's so he could take her to an appointment in Sarnia. Then car to the repair shop and later to an exercise class in warm water. It is grey and rainy also. And to top it off, the appointment with the orthopedic surgeon that I have waited 10 months for has been moved to November 24. All I could think of is that means that more people will be operated on before me. However, I do have a lovely scarf and goodies to delight in.

Since I was posting pictures, I am going to add a picture of half my goodies from the book shopping trip and of my Mandy witch. Isn't she a sweetheart? LOL

My Week in Review

Monday was swimming then to the Chiropractor. Have gone off and on for the last few years to a practise where they do Wellness Management which means they gently touch contact points on the spine and allow the body to heal itself. I find it highly effective and I don't tense up when they want to touch my neck. Only problem is I hadn't been for almost two months so my one leg as 2" shorter than the other. Any questions as to why my back hurts? Did remember enough so that after only a few minutes I was 1/2' difference and I can manage that. Must plan better so I go more often.

Did some light shopping and then met my Sister and Harry at East Side Mario's. David was able to sit down for most of the meal so we had a nice visit and good meal. I had the Goat Cheese stuffed Chicken which I will duplicate at home for certain as I would have liked more cheese. None of us had dessert which was a bit of a surprise.

Tuesday Sister and Harry left for Florida. They are pulling a trailer and will stay for 5 months with a week or so in Edmonton at Christmas to see her family. No rain here so hope they have a clear trip down. I got to go swimming in the warm pool while they drive to the warmth.

Wednesday was Red Hats. Four of us went to a restraunt just outside the city so a very nice drive. The Little Beaver prepares fresh, home cooked food with nothing fancy. The price is also very reasonable and the desserts are worth a special trip just for them. Two had not been before so it was a very nice treat for them.

Went looking for a Christmas House supposedly nearby but it hasn't opened yet for the season. Ended up going miles the other direction to a very nice place called Winter Wheat. It is a real treat to visit any time of the year and I hope you will take a few minutes to visit their web site. This will give you a much better idea of the interesting things there.

Thursday was knitting and swimming. Everyone is getting ready for the Bazaar and I work on my own thing. Feel bad about it so brought home some sewing to do. Next year when I see what they sell and what might sell then I'll get busy. Certainly have enough yarn and material to get things for them.

Mandy's Mom phoned to let me know she has picked up the tickets for the Blue Man Group in Toronto on November 11th. Easy date to remember. Son had won the tickets this summer and gave them to us. I have seen the group in some ads and a TV show so really looking forward to it.

Friday Mandy's Mom called again to say she was clear on Wednesday and would meet me in Cambridge for my surgeon's appointment. I don't really need anyone with me for this meeting but it will be nice to visit with her and have something to eat afterwards. Think she just wants to be the first to find out the date. My sister called and she expects a phone call that night as their internet is not hooked up as yet.

Sister tried to get me going by saying it was 80 and sunny since they got there. Only thing I envy is the pool to use anytime and there are daily exercise classes. They had car problems on the way which put them behind. Got to drive through Cinncinati and Atlanta at rush hour. Not fun. They are there now and all set-up so now the sitting, relaxing and swimming can get started.

Saturday and I am reading blogs, indexing some books, cleaning some areas, and knitting. Son has my camera so no pictures but I just have to graft some stitches and thread in 4 ends on my green socks. Half through the yarn from Lucy's scarf so getting something done on it also.

Enjoy life.