Thank you for Indian Summer

What a beautiful week, the only thing that might have made it better, would have to been off the entire week. Holidays are coming, just have to decide which few days to clump together that would bring the most joy to my life.
Leaves cascading and fluttering about, fall fairs taking place, and the smell of turkey in the oven, the friendship of family and friends, could it get any better?
It seem likes it been awhile since we have had what you call "Indian Summer". When is it hot enough this time of the year to go to the beach in mid-October? This time of year usually includes the first snow fall, but lets not rush that one.
This week we fed 100 people a Thanksgiving dinner, decorated the room to give members a feeling of Fall, although when they stepped outside, it felt more like Summer. I don't believe I ever attended a Fall Fair, and was too hot to enjoy it, which brought me and my friend into the arena to enjoy a little female country singer who could yodel like the best of them.
Fall Fairs, the showing of vegetables, the noise of the midway and tractor pull, and those so clean cattle being shown by their owners dressed in their white outfits and farm boots covered in trimmings. Elmvale really can bring that country feel.
Guess it turned out to be a good thing that the computer was on the blitz, again.... it made me appreciate the outdoors, played a game of boccee ball, had a visit with family, and shared a few drinks. Not a really busy weekend, threw in a turkey, and didn't really care what time we ate. No schedule. Played a few family games, watched the kids dance their hearts out to Wii Zumba and Let's Dance. Meagan's boyfriend wasn't too bad at this considering his dancing last weekend at my neices wedding, Go Jeff!

Last day of the long weekend for some, just the last day of my regular weekend for me. Today, I will return to designing my neices album, Randy will take a spin on his motorcycle, the girls want to do a fall photoshoot. Meagan will go to Jeff's for his family Thanksgiving, which means little chick will fly the coop somewhere as well. (just sayin')
Tomorrow, it all begins again, we all just have to make the time to appreciate the little things in life,
Happy Thanksgiving, everyday,

Summer Closes

It seems Summer just started and it is over. Perhaps it is because Summer holidays haven't happened for me. I started the new position of clubhouse coordinator which postponed my holidays until September's end. I suppose you could say a brief jaunt to North bay, and very brief, as well as an overnight at my brother's cottage accounted for Summer holidays.
This clubhouse position is a huge endeavour. I have begun speaking to the members, getting to know what they want for their clubhouse, developed trust with the staff, and reorganized a few areas. These changes have been well received, but as we all know change is a process.
Little Red is at her first day orientation for Secondary school, and left with butterflies in her stomach, or perhaps that was acid reflux, whatever, she is feeling unsettled, but anxious to jump in with both feet. She was a little late on arrival. My hope is that she gets involved from the get go, meets some positive friends, and concentrates more on her homework. Let's hope she actually does homework because she is not the most dedicated, and will soon find out quickly, that she must stay on top of things to be successful.

Little Ms. Organized one, except for passwords to college, is also off to spread her wings a little further. Sunday brings a day of new beginnings for her, new room mates, new city, new education, and independence. She is very fortunate to be sponsored by the Metis who are providing her first year of college education. She has met her volleyball coach, who also confirmed an opportunity for a ten hour week job within the college. How perfect for a young student going off on her own. Just hope she realizes the wonderful opportunity has been served to her on a golden platter.
Missing holidays over the summer, made me think of holidays upcoming. I jumped on the computer one day with Little Red beside me, and before we knew it we had booked a cruise. Her response was, where are we going. My reply, I don't know, lets check and see. The price was right, and it coincided with Meagan's week off in February. We will be off on a Carnival cruise to St. Thomas, Antiqua, Tortola and Nassau for an eight day beach/relax adventure. This year we are hoping all five of us can zip away.
We do have one very exciting family event happening this October. Our little deedle is tying the knot. Randy and I are providing the photography. Fingers crossed things go well, weather cooperates, and a good time is had by all. Our family is close, and when together, lord knows what might happen, all good things of course.
My neice is joining my daughter Meagan in North Bay to further their educations, while my nephew has jaunted up to Dawson City to use imagination and creative flair in art school.
As stated in the beginning, change is necessary, and usually produces postive results.
Time rolls on, make the best of each day given to you,

Proud Moments

Two wonderful girls are blossoming into two fabulous young ladies, and a mother couldn't be prouder. Both girls are so unique, but truly love each other, one wild and crazy, an amazing following of friends, one quiet, subdued, sweet, and now chooses friends wisely after being hurt, and not enjoying her high school years so much.
As she embarks into her college years, Mom is hoping her sweet, kind, personality does not get taken advantage of on her new journey in life. Let her always have some caution, step back, weigh her options, choosing the best direction.
This daughter struggled with English, but succeeded in getting an award in English in her final year, heading into her final exam with a whopping 96%. Who would have thought that one who couldn't gather her own scrambled thoughts on paper in Grade nine would end up winning an English award. As well, she won a scholarship for $500.00, the "Toots & Jean Wallace Memorial Award" presented to a female graduate who has contributed to school life through her participation in athletics and the school community. This student has also demonstrated qualities such as dedication, hard work, good attendance and commitment to her community. From a mother's point of view, this is not the award for the highest marks, but the award for doing her best, being involved in the community, showing kindness and committment. This exemplifies all the morals this Mom tried to instill in her, and proves a job well done. I love you Ms. Meagan, and always remember Mom is just an email, a telephone call, or a bus trip away, and if things are really bad, I can call a family crisis sick day, and be there in three hours.
My crazy wild child, a true red head, full of energy, unable to sit still, was nominated as the Valedictorian a long with a fellow classmate. She is a popular girl with as many female, as male friends,  friends from Elementary school that will always hold a special place in her heart. Over the years, we have hosted "School's Out for Summer" parties which including digital scavenger hunts, go karting, backyard tenting, etc.
Of course, like her big sister, Cassandra had to have her hair done, as well as her makeup. $130.00 later, she came home after asking the hairdress to take down her hair, and with make up done not as well as she does it herself, she re-did both jobs. Lesson learned, "do it yourself next time".

 Along with the honour of Valedictorian, Cassandra also won "female athlete of the year", and received her 750 point school pin, although she really hated the long distance run in Cross Country. She is the unorganized one, just like her Momma, who waits for the last minute and then pulls things together. She is the one who waited until the last moment to pack for her overnight camping trip, stating she would bring the tent. Last minute, she ran out the shed to get it, and off she went. Once arriving in the parking lot at school, she jumped out saying her good bye. Mom drove out of the parking lot, circled around, then asked her "are you going to be warm enough". Yes, she didn't even bring a sleeping bag. Sadly Meagan had to forfeit hers. She was going on a camping trip as well, and would have to beg, borrow or steal a sleeping bag, as last minute, she being the organized one, poor Maggie Baggie.  Mom didn't have time to go back home. Surprise, surprise, it is now time to unpack the tent. What a "ah" or "haha" moment when she discovered that all she brought was the fly for the tent and the poles. A perfect lean to I suppose, but didn't help the mosquitoes. Luckily her dedicated friends baled her out AGAIN.

Unlike Elementary school with no homework, Secondary school will be an eye opener. She will have to become more dedicated to managing her time wisely to complete assignments. Good Luck to Meagan's favourite teacher Ms. Collins, if she gets her for English. She thought Meagan needed a lot of help, God help her when she meets Cassandra. Her Geography/History teachers better be ready for a "just get by student" as well. No problems in the Athletic area. The volleyball coaches will be surprisingly pleased with her skill level.

As you both jump over the next hurdle in live, always remember, "Momma loves"

Graduation Week, and the Reno's continue

     Little Red is about to graduate this Thursday, and of course has many plans in store, like a party four nights in a row. She was voted by the class to be the Valedictorian, as long with another classmate. In the beginning she was not sure she wanted this title, but now claims she is not as nervous now that they have prepared the speech. Naturally she needs the grand makeover for this important evening. The graduating girls are presently waltzing around the school in their high heels so they will not trip going up on stage. Of course, my daughter forgot her shoes, and Mom had to once again return to the school after just getting home from the school. Some things never change.
     Meagan also graduates next week, and will be off to Canadore College come Fall. She was disappointed not to get a year book this year. My girls are really quite different. Meagan weighs out what to ask Mom for, while Cassandra just shoots for it all. Meagan wanted a year book, but didn't ask, therefore didn't get. They did end up printing more, she stood in line, and let three exchange students run in front of her, who grabbed up the last three editions. She is now making her own, and quite content to do so. Cassandra on the other hand would just take it for granted that she is getting one. She would not in a million years, put the effort into her own hand made year book. Guess that is why we love them for their own unique ways.
     Finally got around to white washing the office space, and was able to bring in the old door from the garden for the back section of my desk. This will be my bulletin board. I did lose a window in the last wind storm, so now have an empty spot.  The huge shelf mantel is not going to work after all above the desk. It would be too much staff. Reminder to self, the idea is to downsize.
     Speaking of which, I need a garage sale this Sunday, can't do Saturday, as I now work 9-5. I have got to get rid of the Sassifrass stuff. Too much just sitting around, and too much to just simply give away. Luckily, I live on a well traveled road, and should be able to get rid of a good portion. I did develop the best of the black and whites of the wedding shoot, which will proudly hang from sweet little hooks above my old door.
     Haven't saw hide nor tail of the three little kittens, but have saw Momma around a few times, Kind of a worry, or she has just said adiose to them, and they are now on their own. Won't be long until she is pregnant again. I've been snapping a few garden shots daily, and will include a snap with my writings.
.....the dreaded bathroom is shaping up. I hated the white ceiling, so took it down, and will now go with  tongue and groove. I'll be so glad when that is done. Randy thinks another plan is lurking. He is well aware, that I am not content for too long, like an hour max.
     The neighbors hired a tree company to dispose of a large tree. I asked them to slide this way and remove some limbs that were bothering the view from the upstairs window, and giving the raccoon full access to the roof. One hundred dollars later, limbs are down, and dragged to the backyard for burning. A few scratches in the process.
     One more week of training and then I'm on my own with the new job. I'm sure I'll be calling or running upstairs with questions for my trainer.
     Today we are starting "lunch with Mommy days". Even though our family all lives in the same town, we don't see enough of each other. Somehow life takes over, and we begin to take things for granted. Each week, we will choose a different restaurant, enjoy some comfort food, and a few good laughs. We should have done this years ago, but like I said, time just keeps getting away from us. We have to actually book life in, if we want it to happen. Reminder to all, schedule your family in........they are what make us.

Transitions

I have begun my new rotation, no longer having Friday/Saturdays off, and now beginning the Sunday/Monday off rotation. Can't say I'm extremely thrilled with the days off shift, but I'll get over it. It is now 5 o'clock somewhere, and a beer sits infront of me. ...........it really is 5 o'clock.
Tuesday brings yet another transition. I have just completed training the "new" girl for my position, and am about to embark on a "one year" adventure of being the "new girl", the "new boss", "the delegater", the "coordinator", the "cook", the "organizer", the "facilitator", the "coach" and I am sure many more titles. This is my ONE steady career, instead of juggling six. I have now resigned from three positions almost, one more to resign, and only relief work with the long standing agency of sixteen years.
I've been told this is one BIG workload, and that it will take me one year to get accustomed and to revamp. Yes, a BIG challenge.
With Sunday, Monday off, it gives me time to think of the questions that need to be addressed in regards to the routines, the mission, what is lacking, what the challenges are, etc. Two weeks to ask questions job shadowing, and then...........you are on your own girlie. Luckily the one that is training is just moving upstairs.
I'm sure volunteers will have to be accessed, anyone???
As I finish the old, and begin the new, my van ran over an Electric staple, causing a flat tire, I ask myself what does this signify in my life, "3/4's full", almost there?, or "about to blow". ......"the tire" ladies........... Lucky for me a fellow was working and patched it up for ten bucks. On the road again, and I'll just keep pressing the gas.

A change will do you good

Return to work this a.m., like I haven't been working around here the last four days. I have not had four days off for a really long time. not having to take off to a volleyball tournament, a pleasant change, although sun and beer go together too well. I'm supposed to be feeling rested, but need a good night's sleep. Meagan set her alarm for 5;45 am., so guess who is up,..........not her.
One more weeking training a co-worker in my present position then off to orientate for the Clubhouse coordinator position. Looking forward to a change and challenge.
Renovations continue, the beachy panelling and crown moulding is purchased and sits upstairs for the wall portion of the bathroom. This has got to be the longest renovation project.
The Rooster border is down in the office. A fresh coat of Cottage White will grace the walls, perhaps the next few days off. I dread dragging everything away from wall. Luckily it is a small room. I will then take an old door and use it for back of my desk, insert three black and white photos of the girls, and use the rest as bulletin board. The Crown moulding shelf purchased in Cookstown will then go up, and I'd better be hitting the studs, as it is a heavy brute. Atop this will be a plain Pewter curtain rod, from which I'll hang more photos by little clips. The Patio doors will also get a coat of paint, perhaps spray paintedif I can do it evenly enough without drips. The corner of the room is brick. It too will be painted a cottage white. The gas fireplace will remain black.
The "boyfriend" garden that Meagan is working on, is coming along slowly. It has been very hot to do gardening, and she has been at her father's this weekend.
Finally, I will take photos of some of my costumes and see if I can unload them on kijiji. Never ends.
Anyone have time off work, and really take time off?
Just love old pick ups, wishing we could have used one for the wedding gown shoot,

I think I broke my ass, severely bruised

Off today to find a house insulated with Straw. Kijiji brought me to Oro Medonte to purchase yet some more flowers, perennials, Dalia's. Naturally on the way, you have to pass Freskiew Farms. $77.00 later, I sit at home, well try to sit, as my ass throbs.

You know those windows I was bragging about yesterday, well.......Randy says take apart these old rusty chains and you can hang your windows from there. He is off picking up a bolt on his motorcycle at this point. Window number one is hung. Now I must inch my way along the window box, balancing my feet while hanging onto this window. Window is up hanging. While I'm here, I may as well hang the clay fish window charm. Fish is hanging, I'll take down the Solar now, as I'm replacing it, and putting it elsewhere. This is where it all goes wrong.

I am facing East, I step North. The window box goes West. I spin mid air, drop three feet, and reach for whatever the hell I can grab, which happens to be a decorative hose holder with sharp metal vine looking things on top.

I am not a light weight. I land on the corner of the window box, that really is a corner nowwith many sharp points, as the whole edge has given way. I am hanging on to the sharp metal hose thing. My ass is throbbing, but my hand is aching more. No bloody wonder, as blood seeps from my hand as I pull my hand off the hose holder which only causes blood from my hand to cascade further. I catch my bearings, remembering my hands are covered in rust from doing the chains up in the first place. I dash for the hose. But wait, I just changed the hose head to a wand type and can't get it on. Finally hurriedly, trying to rinse the bloody rust from my hands. Not working so well, apply pressure, go to washroom to find bandaid while applying pressure. My head is feeling kind of vacant and dark, and spinny. Sit on toilet now, before I hit the floor as well. Breathe. My cat is wondering what the hell is going on.....

Now I will capture the sequence with film, to show you my predicament. I was walking on the far side of the patio on the window boxes, duh, It is at least a four foot drop, so really smarts when the poundage makes contact.The window is crooked, but I'm not going up there again. Lesson Learned.
The other photo is the not so cute raccoon who has decided to take up residence in the Facia. Trapper Mike, come rescue me please.
5:30 a.m., the little bugger is outside, rush out in my nightgown to block the hole, and say a little prayer that he/she doesn't have little ones,

Wing Ding

For years, I have reserved the date of the annual Wing Ding in Coostown, and never actually been able to go. Saturday morning brought a downpour of rain all morning. Some guy forecasted better weather for the afternoon, so we ventured off anyway hoping he was correct. Chilly as it was, the weather did improve Prior to this, and before it did stop, we checked out home improvement centres, Home Depot, Lowes, and Rona, not likely a good thing to do, as Gardening departments seem to just draw you in.
Lowes, the sweetest little frog decor, watering wand, as well as more solar lights.  For $2.99, they seem to reflect almost a star pattern throughout the evenings. Home Depot, a Toro weed trimmer, toy for Randy. With so many gardens, we must keep them trimmed up.
Now venturing down the highway, let's take #27, for the scenic view, we come upon a gorgeous home that we've never been able to get close to, and they are hosting a garage sale.
The Annual Wing Ding is held in Cookstown, Ontario. This event brings all the neighbourhood together for a gigantic garage sale, seems they all have a ton of very good junk. People have wagons and bags, and just walk about the town visiting tons of garage sales thinking up new ideas for upcycling their finds..
My Finds: five old windows to be used hanging from Gazebo
                Crown moulding shelf for computer room, very heavy, hmmm will it hold?
                Perennials, 2 whole flats of an almost lime green ground cover, $1.00 flat
                           Morning glories, shasta daisies, columbine
                Iron curtain rod with clips
                Weathered little tea cart for flowers
                2 white iron hooks for garden
                Booth china plates, so pretty pinks/greens
Lunch at the Simcoe Theatre, side note, a very good place to see theatre, Footloose is playing in November.Their Christmas show is a great seasonal uplift. The lunch was really neat, many different types of sandwich samples with different fillings and breads, a few pastry samples, and a few fruit pieces. $5.00 plate, well worth it.
Fantastic finds, I'd definately explore Cookstown again at the WingDing, as long as it is held the first Saturday of the month, as I now work every Saturday, but the first one.
Friday was spent replacing all those clothes that accidently were dontated to the Salvation Army.
Sunday, today, hmmm, Doors Open Huronia, free. Perhaps we'll visit some historic local homes in the area. I've heard from a little bird, someone in Coldwater is dividing perennials, which would mean garden expansion. Should I, or should I not?
Oh yes, nature at it's finest has returned to our home, in our home, that damn raccoon,, a fellow at work is a trapper. We will be seeking his services REAL soon.
Hope your weekend was a good one...

Practice Wedding Photo Shoot

Finally,  not too a bad weekend. We've been waiting for somewhat of a dry weekend for some time, a weekend where the ground is not mucky. The girls chose some fun, pretty, cheap, wedding dresses what seems like ages ago. Every weekend my stepdaughter arrived, terrible weather showed up too..
This weekend looked no different, but around at noon on a Saturday, it was a now or never moment. After just hollering up the stairs to them to get their butts moving, as we have tons of yard work to catch up on, the sun looks as though it may pop through, or at least chase away the clouds.
Now the girls are upstairs putting on their grungies. They are almost ready to go into the garden. Hmmmm, something wrong with this photo image. Getting ready to garden??!! Mom thinks, well they must be ready now, and yells upstairs, change in plans, we are going to do the fun wedding shoot. C#@*&$, what the heck, "she is so random". Grumble, grumble, wash, curl, straighten, make up, totally different than gardening. Mom thought by the time they get ready, it will be raining.
We are now loaded in the van, with all camera equipment. This is a practice shoot, for the real shoot on October 1st when my neice is getting married, and we are the photographers of the day. Thank goodness for digital.
Three lovely ladies, and three lovely wedding dresses crammed in the van. Mom asked why didn't you wear the dresses, 'cause now you have to change. A short drive, 4 minutes and they are changing in the van. The one dress has a gazillion buttons to do up, and undo on each change, and all three girls had to wear all three dresses. The shorter one without train which started out as the more unloved dressed, soon became the favourite, easy to walk in, one zip and you're ready.
Let's see where can we shoot. Gazebo on William Street. Mom loves Coldwater, the old homes, the government dock and old bridges. We head there, and are greeted by a ton of cars, (note to self), read the paper when traveling to a photoshoot. It was the annual Duck Race, which totally crowds the streets of Coldwater for a fun cause. We arrive at 1:30, the ducks are swimming at two. Change dresses, damn buttons. Hurry off to the first bridge. Off to the town dock. Change dresses. Damn buttons. Heading to Severn Falls, not sure why.... Mom sees a very cool railroad crossing and knows it is a perfect photo op. Snap, snap, snap, u-turn,  that railroad crossing hosts one friggin' bump when you hit it at seventy, as the girls heads hit the ceiling. Guess that is why you slooooow down at crossings. whoops, giggle, giggle.
Skip through Severn Falls, not much here, and head to Big Chute, girls are getting a little tired. Three hours later, man it is going to be one long day at the "real" thing. Stop at Waubaushene for an ice cream, pick up some supper, relax by the fire with a few cool ones. Done Day! Oh yes, don't forget three hours of processing the shots. Enjoy.

Sometimes God has other plans

It's been awhile since writing. Nothing too exciting going on I suppose. Just the same ol'.

Although, three months into the new job, and a posting came out for the position I originally applied for, hmmm, should I move?
At first I thought, this new program is so new... it's just a baby, and has been fun to start up, then I thought, why put your life on hold, are you feeling challenged?, are you learning? ...send email to the Executive Director who replies, why are you not applying for case manager here?
Ask myself, why AM I NOT applying for the job I originally wanted. So I do.
And I study, study, study preparing for the interview.(s) three in total, and one huge homework section.
Last Wednesday, I was given the fantastic news, welcome to Case Management. I don't start for a month, which gives me time to continue to build supports in the community for the Senior Program. Along with this, I'm hoping to take some courses towards certification in Psychosocial Rehabilitation. I am working with an organization that truly appreciates their employees, and offers wonderful educational opportunities, a very positive change in my career life.

Eldest daughter has now settled on a college, Canadore in North Bay. We even began to pick up the odds and ends a college student may need. Picking up pots and pans really set some reality into her. She'll likely have to throw them out after one year from burnt bottoms, unless she learns how to stay with the cooking thing and watch it... Good news is my neice is also going in that direction. Happy to have a big sister looking out for her. She may even continue with volleyball.

Youngest is getting a little nervous about heading to Secondary School next year. She now has a job, assisting with a Get Set volleyball program. She is thrilled to making money doing what she loves. If only everyone could do the job they love and be paid and appreciated.

As for the reno's, the ceiling is up in the bathroom, no walls, that is next, and then the mirrors and little decor. A few set backs financially with volleyball weekends, College down payments, graduations, upcoming Gr. 8 Ottawa trip. Those kind of things seem to drain your bank account. Yet again, next weekend, shuffle off to Buffalo.

I did stop into my sisters' yesterday on a lovely Saturday afternoon, delivering surprise bouquets of flowers for "an appreciate your sisters moment". Both were quite surprised.

Happy Spring, and may life continue to Blossom for you,

Still shabby

Help Rachel Ashwell or Mr. Holmes:
I tend to be getting no where fast.  Clutter, clutter, clutter, Could someone please bring me one of those huge dumpsters. I've got bits and pieces of what I want, and lots of what I don't want. They say Feng Shui lets energy flow through your home, My goodness it is blocked solid. I can't wait for Spring to just escape to the backyard for a change.
I did pick up some nifty Brass lamps with a very sweet design, and some Baby Pink shades with beading. for the new office. As well, I hit up Kijiji for a round Pedestal Dining table $25.00 with four chairs, that is now covered in stuff until things get situated. When?? a good question. A few more pieces of furniture need to be switched up, from upstairs to down, but this can't be down until the "rooster" border is torn down. Not my favourite job. Ode to self, "I will not put up borders, EVER again". The French Patio doors need a coat of paint, but warmer weather must arrive first.
The desk is now White, as well as the the two $5.00 End tables. They need the edges sanded and then distressed. Add that to the list. Maybe add myself to destress.
Now for a back track. The lovely little shelf unit created where we had to tear out the kitchen wall due to the flooding from the upstairs bathrooml did not take well to the primed paint purchased, Re sand, and re paint.
The swap out of Kitchen dishes are pretty well all Vintage White with small flower detailing on some, or just Embossed edges.
Most plastic cups are gone to work for water cups for painting replaced with a mix of glassware. So far so good, not a broken glass yet, well at least nobody has told me of the mishap. I guess the little ones are growing up. Problem is the youngest tends to take the biggest cup, fill it, drink half and leave it.
Changed passwords on computers, as it seems this addiction to facebook, has taken my youngest way off track from her bedroom as well. She seems to have claimed my laptop.
Then there is shift work. Over to afternoons for the next few weeks. Perhaps the daylight hours will assist in getting some things done. It seems weekend hours are sucked up taking kids to volleyball tournaments the next four weeks.
As for the eldest, still hasn't decided about college choice. The latest---"wouldn't it be cool to live in North Bay with my cousin, she could do Nippising, I could do Canadore". Such a big choice for them at such a young age.
As I take a peek out the French Doors into the garden, I give a second thought to escaping to the garden, as I see the hot tub cover needs replaced, the drainage from when we first moved in, is still in disrepair,
So, Rachel, Mr. Holmes, could you please bring a concrete drain specialist, a hot tub technician, as the pump is gone in the hot tub, as well as a representative from Better Homes and Gardens. I will leave for a well deserved vacation, and come home to a completed, home. Isn't a home for relaxing at some point?
You gotta wonder,
Yours in reno's...

Shabby, not so chic

Kitchen is coming along nicely, (will post a few photos soon) once Randy figured out that the crown moulding goes on the top, and the square side goes along the top. (ruined the first one, but managed to salvage the majority of it). I then thought the shelf/pantry we modified would look absolutely fabulous Shabby Chic, (kind of a washout barnboard) I purchased a Creamy White paint with primer in it, thinking this should do the job. Hmmm, shabby, not so chic. But I like it anyway.
The bookcase/pantry shelf purchased from Canadian Tire, one of those Veneer jobs, didn't take too kindly to being shabbified. I got a feeling, it won't be long before we have to sand that shiny painted veneer off, and redo, as the paint likely won't last, but until then.......it will do. It is really very charming with my two daughters photos, one on each shelf accompanied by some sweet little birds and a few Springlike items. Even better, counter top space has reappeared.
Randy is getting quite worn out with all the reno's, dare I tell him he really hasn't finished....the upstairs bathroom, hiding all the cords from that HUGE television he just had to have, and to try to make the laundry room that I just cleaned walkable again, and tidy up the mess in the dirt floor basement where he quickly piled things to get to the plumbing disaster. Aww, the joys of a 'reno' home. We'll take a break now, though, as I don't get paid for a little bit. Lots' of year end stuff impending at work. Seems everywhere I work, year end is in March.

House That Jack Built

Life goes on. Another five days roll by, weekend is here again, Saturday morning rolls around, and I should be getting this place together, ........more.  but, Saturdays are for relaxing.
These are the morning you just want to sit in bed with a Timmies coffee, check out your favourite blogs, all of which are Shabby Chic reno ideas, and squander away this rainy, soon to be, fingers crossed Spring Day.
This week in "the house that Jack built" ever so crookedly, we exposed the bottom half of the chimney in the kitchen, that leans a little to the right. It doesn't lean as far right as the upstairs portion of course. Now to fix the hole in the wall from the last shower that poured down into my kitchen from the plumbing issues upstairs.  Let's see how do we attempt that one.
Canadian Tire had Sauder book cases on sale last week. They had 24" shelves. That was a little large for the opening created from cutting through cast iron pipes, so all had to be trimmed back to 17" lengths.  Done, and now to just plop it into the space for a set in pantry. On to the framing.
Here is where the blog ideas come in. I'm falling in love with the Creamy White colour. We have decided to leave the chimney exposed and frame around the pantry and chimney.  Cheap pine bead board painted the fantastic colour, framed with some pretty moulding, good mould this time....
and, while we are at it, Creamy white Crown moulding to seal the deal. Randy thought I was buying floor board, and couldn't figure out why we needed some wide trim on the top of the walls. Tried to explain that a crown is worn on top of your head, hence Crown goes on the top of a wall. We all know who the Queen is around this house that Jack built.
My painting is done, but think I'll also repaint a few walls, in the kitchen, Creamy White. Jack is now gone to start the framing. (I thought, the bugger went to the other computer, and is delving into his favourite hobby photography, I guess it is framing, but not the framing he left the room to do) The problem is he knows all the tips, but hasn't got the balls to ask those he is shooting to actually "move" to make a better photo.
The real framing should take him about six hours for a one hour job, but he'll get it done. Luckily Jack doesn't charge by the hour.
I'll give him a little while, finish my "Tim's", and try to understand and enforce Oprah's motto, "if you don't absolutely love it, get rid of it". The garage sale that was supposed to happen last Fall, has to happen this Spring,
....have a great weekend,
Queen Darlene

Promise to self to spend more time in Garden this year.

......and for those of you who have Spring Fever, let me remind you not to go anywhere need HomeSense this time of the year. Your bank account will drain drastically.
Spring is absolutely my favourite time of the year to visit Home Sense. I simply cannot avoid the cascading colours of pinks, blues, light green, mauves, bird houses, lanterns, etc.
Yesterday, I found the most wonderful Solar lanterns, they are huge, of course I had to get them. When you see others putting two of them in a cart as quickly as possible without even thinking twice about it, we say to ourselves, "that must be the thing that everyone is going with this year", and promptly drop two into our own cart as well. They are fabulous. Oh, and I just must have that mauve bird cage for the garden too, a great companion for the Ivory one I already own. I could have gone over the top, as I fell in love with 80% of the store.
Ah, the colours of Spring. I adore the Shabby Chic look, and the time worn look. This would be the look I'd love to capture in my humble Abode. So far, I have the Shabby and time worn mastered. It is the Chic part that is missing. Note to self, if you bring something new into the home, you must get rid of something old. Definitely a hard lesson to learn, remembering that old is part of what makes a Shabby Chic decorator.
Now on to Winners, not only decorative, but fashion to boot. I had to hold the reins here a little tighter, and ended up walking out with two clearance sweaters, ten bucks for the two of them. Now that is a steal.
Next stop, Michaels Craft Store. They have the sweetest little Spring collection called Ashland. Once again, pinks, blues and greens, with birds, flowers, and the Shabby Chic feel.  Gotta haves.... Hmmm, the Valentine section is reduced 90%, they are giving them away. Funky little red glass, and clear vinegar bottles with vintage labels adorned with tiny roses. They would make the prettiest little fresh flower holders. .33 cents a piece. Being that its March, the calendars are now .15 cents. They would be wonderful for scrapbooking, and look this one even comes with frames. For you avid scrapbookers, Tim Holtz inks are 40% off today, suppose I should add a few colours to my collection that I never use.
Now, I must run.
Remember that nightmare bathroom, it still isn't done. Off to purchase 2x4's and some bead board at Home Depot, or was it Rona? Seems like ages ago when we started the reno. Shabby yes, chic, not yet.
Eight more weeks, Spring will blossom in Ontario, I hang my lanterns, wait for the birds, and maybe even sit on the crapper in the updated Shabby Chic bathroom, without the tub.
.........and what are you planning for your Spring Garden reno's?

Reality Hits

Reality Hits

 Check your email, check your mail box, check the Ontario College Site. A few steps closer to losing your baby girl. I'm not really liking this whole process.
 She only applied last week, I'm not ready for acceptance. Slow down this train just a little, 'cause it is running at a rampant speed, way too fast for me, and I'm not even sure my daughter is aboard yet....
 Too young. Too Innocent. Too confused. Too Naive. The latter of which scares me most, my goodness she can barely boil water. How do you teach a girl that you have to actually stay within sight of a stove when you are cooking anything. You can't play Wii, text, listen to an Ipod, facebook, and answer the phone while cooking.
 Three out of five colleges have accepted her, too bad I can't accept her leaving. Part of life I suppose.
Definitely meal plan material, residence. North Bay, Peterborough, Orillia, Oshawa, or the Big TO.
Some how since applying, the hours tick by quicker and quicker.
 The question, Mom can I sleep somewhere tonight, at a girlfriends?" No, you have got to spend time here, with me, our days together are numbered.
 I can feel many road trips in my not so distant future. I can pray that my younger daughter competes in Volleyball in a district close to where she will be living, where I used to dread those long distant trips.
 Come on Mom, get a grip, she isn't going half way across the world..................yet.
 Is this hitting home with anyone else?

Overwhelming Decisions

Due Date, February 1st, cut off time for college application.
Why or why do kids leave things until the last minute.
Applying to College/University, at the same time as Grade Twelve exams is likely enough to give a kid a nervous breakdown. On top of this, a job presently that isn't even giving her enough hours to pay for her link to life, the Blackberry, and, finally concluding that there is not enough days left for her to get her driver's license before attending College, if she is even accepted.
It is mind boggling for them to try to figure out what they will do with the rest of their lives. Parents can try to give them some coaching, but ultimately, it is their choice, their life.
All she really knows for sure is, "I want to work with people", not just children, although she would enjoy counselling children who are going through divorce.
I try really hard to not push my ideas upon her, and just give her options.
She did visit her favorite Coach/Guidance Counselor today for a little advice, and some words of wisdom to assure her that ever teenager her age, is going through the same thing, and came away with a more positive outlook. She soon realized that Guidance Counselors are also available in Colleges/Universities.
Questions, shall I go to college close by?, Shall I live in residence? Will I meet friends? Will I be happy? Have I chose the right course? Will I be accepted? Did I wait too late? Where do I get the money? Can I work part-time? When will I now get my license now that I know I can't possibly get it by September? Where are my friends going? Where can I find a better job to make more money soon? Should I date my ex again? The trials and tribulations of teenagers.
As adults with somewhat clearer minds, at least we think so, we can take all this step by step, setting goals. Teenagers with disorganized brains tend to have an "I will get to it" attitude.
After meeting with her counselor, she came home more anxious to explore her options, jumped on the internet excited at the prospect of new opportunity. She is leaning towards Social Service Worker, a two year program with the option of continuing toward her Bachelor of Social Work. Now wouldn't that be something to be proud of? I'm proud already, two wonderfully beautiful, kind girls. If they are not ready to leave the nest quite yet, Momma's cradle will hold her a little longer, and when they do, home will always be the place they can come back to, where they feel loved with no questions asked.
Is she ready for such big choices? Are we ever ready? Big choices continue throughout our life. Most people have five careers over their life time. Don't fret it girlie, take one day at a time. Momma loves and will always be here to catch you when you fall.

What does ABS mean to you?

They say things happen in three's. Sometimes I wonder if a fourth comes along, does that mean a new threesome is happening. If so, I must be closing in really soon on a dozen.
Let me tell you, it has been one of those weeks. We, our family has been doing renovations. Never in a million years would I have thought that the myriad of difficulties would arise. ...and to think the initial plan was to just change some faucets. Let me give you a break down, before I have my own breakdown.
Since we are replacing the faucets, why not replace the whole crappy vanity, as it was really ugly. I thought it would be much nicer with a pedestal sink. Rip it out.
Upon ripping it out, the floor underneath was found to be rotten. O.K. a new floor, rip out three layers of tiles. Yes, we live a really old home/cottage barn style 1930's home, perhaps earlier. Also, behind the vanity that was ripped out, the walls were very old as well. Hmmm, now, do we really use that tub? Answer, No. Do we have a tub downstairs and a hot tub, Answer yes. Guess what is coming out next? Goodbye tub, goodbye walls. And while I'm at crowbarring the walls down, I accidently slipped, and poked a hole in the drop ceiling. What the hell, it may as well come down too. So there we were three months ago with a bare bones bathroom.
Luckily, Randy is some what of a do-it-yourself man, just takes a little longer figuring it out, but saves us a ton of money. I must mention he also has to put up with my lack of patience and appreciation. I just get so tired of the ongoing mess. Three weeks later, he had the plumbing back together after putting in a floor. The space appears much bigger, and a chimney was exposed. It is rather a funky feature.
Oh yes, I almost forgot that in between removing the bath tub and shower system, naturally the water was turned off.  But the shower head was not, so you can well imagine what happened when Randy turned the water back on from the basement two floors below. I had left to pick up the girls. The water poured down between the floors, into my kitchen cupboards, and into the basement where Randy stood. He called out for me not knowing I had left, but knowing before I left I was using his shop vac. Getting no answer, he flew up the stairs envisioning me electrocuted on the floor. Once again, not impressed on my arrival home as water poured from the kitchen ceiling. And you think this is bad?
After two weeks, the plumbing from the upstairs washroom backed up. Plumber one called, they could not fix, billed anyway. Plumber two put in an access point that was useless, as they could not get through with any type of snake. Billed anyway. Don't forget, our vacation is booked for Dec. 4th, and Christmas is just around the corner, and I have completed my one year contract, and am now dropped to five hours weekly. Isn't life grand? Action: Put all on hold, we ARE gong on vacation.
Now the middle of January, best get back to the plumbing problem. Remember, we live in an old home, cast iron pipes. Randy did get it cut, and worked three days ongoingly to get whatever was solidly in there to drain, hard water buildup? Not sure, but it unclogged a few times only to clog again. Did I mention the cast iron pipe runs through my kitchen?
Did I mention the pipes froze in the laundry room, due to the extreme cold temperatures, -30, creating an overload of laundry. Every time you need to do laundry you have to defrost the pipes with a heat gun.
The cold temperature also knocked out the hot tub,
The sink in the kitchen also clogged, and while repairing it, noticed it leaking underneath as well.
What a royal pain, and not where you think, a cracked tooth on top of all this, no dental plan.
Yesterday, I walked into yet another mess, the hot water in laundry room had burst. You know, that didn't even fizz me, I'm getting so use to the pandemonium.
Today, I pulled in the driveway, and the ABS light came on.........I'm taking that light as, all bull shit, my fair warning light. Anyone want to move in, or want a boarder?
Positive thoughts, we still have heat, electricity, and each other.
Scatter joy and kindness.

Time For You

Don't you absolutely love those days when you haven't really done a thing. You know, the days were it doesn't really matter if you do anything. The days when you can just sit around, don't answer the phone, the door, just time for you.
I seem to be spending more time doing not much, just browsing the internet, lolly gagging in pajamas all day. It is a refreshing change, although looking in the mirror is not something we like to do on these days.
The funny thing is, that browsing the internet has brought me to Feng Shui sites this weekend. It's an interesting concept for sure. The main thing is to de-clutter, something I've been slowly, attempting at different intervals throughout the weekend. In between de-cluttering, I sit and browse for how to bring more positive Chi into our home. Again, the word de-clutter. O.K., O.K., I'm getting the message, get up and start....
Perhaps, just to procrastinate a little longer, I'll look up my Chinese horoscope. I'm the metal rat, and this is the Year of the Rabbit. Sounds like last year, the year of the Tiger, was the year of speed, and quick changes. The year of the Rabbit is a slower paced year, a year to sit back and plan, and figure out what I want to do with my life. Funny I am reading this now, after starting a blog three weeks ago. Career wise, is also a year of planning, but a year that I will be recognized come Fall. We'll see if the Rabbit is correct.
Tomorrow, I look forward to a new position working with Seniors with Mental Illness on low incomes, working shifts, days and afternoons.  A team of six people were hired to start this newly funded program, as well as a supervisor. We will not be supporting anyone, until we have the program set up.
It is exciting to be included in a ground floor social assistance program from the beginning. As Baby Boomers reach  retirement age, most of them having not been employed full time with contributions to retirement, and having to juggle many part time jobs, I would think mental illness would increase dramatically.
The year of the Rabbit promises slow, rewarding changes. I'm ready for change, and the opportunity to personally slow down and be appreciated.
But for now, like the Rabbit, I must hop along and de-clutter, enough putting it off. Open the space, and let the positive Chi flow through.

Be True to Yourself

Ever have one of those days when you come home from a day at work, and wonder how exactly your morals, fit with your companies? You know one of those days when everyone is negative, when people find joy in stamping on your heart. Working in a field of vulnerable people can really put others on a power trip. Vulnerable people don't need control, they need choice, respect, and love. Last night, I was told that I seem to not let anything worry me, that I just seem so calm and relaxed. Believe me, this is a choice, as I 've come  to realize that those at the top, more often never climbed there by being a nice person.
I wouldn't want to sit at the top if it meant being unkind.
What happened to a world of kindness? It seems greed, and power totally change a person. How many times can you recall how a truly beautiful person, stepped from a front line worker to management and somehow along the way, deceitfulness, became their middle name.
The statement "need to know". Why do agencies try to keep things hidden? How does one truly be a team when there are secrets lurking? Why do people fear change? The answer is..........we are not involved in changes that drastically alters our lives.
No wonder people fear it, we are only told, change is coming. Why is change coming? Are we not always in a constant state of change. Things should be changing daily. Perhaps everyone is so stuck in a rut, that change is scary.
Change isn't a natural disaster, it just happens.
I welcome change, I welcome variety, I welcome non-routine, and if routine is part of my new day,  I'll add some genuine interest, sprinkle in some laughter, joy and a dash of love. I choose to be True to Myself. I will no longer be dragged down, I will let things roll off me, and not feel suffocated by the hands of control. Break lose, make your own change, 'cause chances are, you're not going to like the ones are imposed upon you unless you're part of them.

Sometimes Life Throws a Curve Ball

Monday, January 10, 2011

Countdown to Change

Sometimes life throws you a curve ball.
Have you ever worked somewhere, and felt that "one" profession at
 that "one" place would be the place you spend the rest of your career?
 You were so totally committed. You knew it was the career you were
destined to do. Yet, somehow, it isn't going to turn out that way.
What ever happened to the most qualified, the most seniority, and
 the most experience?
Let me tell you, no matter how strong your union, how high your
seniority, as long as a little clause stating "management has the
right to manage", is enclosed, nothing else matters. Let's not
forget, the little statement, "it's who you know, not how well
you do the job". And really, why bother applying at all, as most
often management already has the person they want applying.
They have had an invitation and often already has a sneak preview
of the job, and often moved into the position ahead of time.
I really thought, the wounds may have started to heal, but no, they
are still as fresh as ever. I have figured out however, that it truly is
time to move on. I am no longer enjoying what I am doing, the spark
 is gone. I used to go to work, and the days would fly by, as I loved
what I was doing. Now, I simply watch the clock, to see when the
shift will end. My motivation to improve things, gone as well.
Luckily, God threw me a rope in December, I grabbed on, and now
I'll be starting anew, a fresh start, a new perspective, a new team.
 It really can't come fast enough.
I can't answer what happened to appreciation for an employee, a
simple thank you for a job well done, a pat on the back, those
things just don't happen. Yet "they" wonder what is wrong with
the moral.
The pitcher on the other team threw a curve ball. I never been
thrown such a lousy ball. It definitely struck me out. I didn't realize
 either, that there truly is two teams. I heard it often enough, but
chose to believe in the morals and values of people. Guess all people
don't have morals.
I'm ready now to start hitting home runs for a new team,

Joining the Circus

For those that do not have one full time employer, the trend these days seems to be juggling careers. I've often thought that I should purchase a baseball cap with many peaks, and on each cap write or make a logo for the job I am doing at that moment, and continue to turn this hat throughout the day. This cap would likely end up looking like a full brimmed hat.
A woman's job, waitress, maid, launderer, best friend, wife, mother, lover, co-worker, sister, daughter, boss, and I'm sure we fulfill many more roles for our children, cook, chauffeur, teacher, guider, friend, etc. Now, I know longer think all these things can fit upon my hat. They have now become juggling balls. I have to admit, I am not the best juggler, and sometimes the balls come tumbling down, usually they fall within my house, where meals, housekeeping, and the things that can wait, wait....and wait they do. Add a few more balls, recreation, educational assistant, two school boards, residential counselor, vocational worker, chap worker. I think that covers my careers that coincide with each other all at once.
Gone are the days where you went to work, did one job with satisfaction, came home, and worked at home, I'd like to say relaxed, but we all know that is not the case. We work outside the home, and then we become a SAHM the rest of the time. Where does something fit in this plan just for us?
Being from the baby boomer generation, and juggling careers all my life, I have not had the opportunity to put money towards retirement, nor had the luxury of Dental Plans. I cannot look forward to the days of retiring, as I see myself continuing to work to make ends meet.
Now take a look at the students who are graduating with degrees. The world isn't looking a whole lot brighter for them, as the trend now is to hire on contract or perhaps hire two people part time, and have them job share.
I am looking forward to the 17th of this month, a fresh new beginning working with Seniors with Mental Health issues on low incomes supporting them in the community and in their homes. Naturally their incomes are so low that even if needed, they would not be able to afford long term care, or retirement homes.
This is not a pretty picture to look forward to, is it? Tell me how depression is not going to get worse for Baby Boomers. Sadly,  employment can only grow when Canada's government can once again begin to offer full time employment with benefits, never mind this job sharing, and this contract thing...
Within two weeks, some of my balls in the air will begin to settle to the ground for awhile, but they likely will not get very dusty, as all doors still need to remain open, just in case, as this position although full time, is also contract.
I am getting so good at juggling, perhaps I'll run off and join the Circus.

Live Like You Were Dyin'

These are the lyrics to a wonderful song that I've come across. I love Tim McGraw's version, not too mention how wonderfully attractive he is when he sings. You really feel like he is truly singing just to you. ,Lenka also has some wonderful words with a really cool gypsy feel, Enjoy

Live Like You Were Dyin'

One of these days you’ll be
under the covers you’ll be
under the table and you’ll realize
that all of your days are numbered;
all of them one to one hundred.
All of them millions.
All of them trillions.
So what are you gonna do with them all?
You can not trade them in for more.
no no

Take every moment; you know that you own them.
It’s all you can do, use what’s been given to you.

Give me a reason
to fight the feeling
that there’s nothing here for me.
Cause none of its easy,
I know it wasn’t meant to be.
I know it’s all up to me.
It's all up to me.
So what am I gonna do with my time?
oh

Ill take every moment, I know that I own them.
It’s all up to you to do whatever you choose.

Live like you’re dying and never stop trying.
It’s all you can do, use what’s been given to you.

All of the moments you didn’t notice;
gone in the blink of an eye.
And all of the feelings you couldn’t feel
no matter how you try.
oh oh

Take every moment; you know that you own them.
It’s all up to you,
to do whatever you choose.

Live like you’re dying and never stop trying.
It’s all you can do, use what’s been given to you.

Live like you’re dying and never stop trying.
It’s all up to you, use what’s been given to you.

oh oh

Lenka's words  really make you think about what you want to do with the rest of your life. What can you do each day, to make your life happier? Make a list. Seven things. Perhaps do one each day. They don't have to be BIG things, Read the lines and listen to the video by Lenka, I'm sure you too will be inspired,

A Blog Blooms

I'd like to invite all women that make a difference in other's women's lives to become part of the Scattered Wanderings Blog. My hope is that women who visit can find something of interest to fill their quiet times, their "me" times. All women deserve times such as these. All too often, we become something for others, mom, friend, lover, daughter, boss, co-worker etc., but not very often "just yourself", doing things just for YOU. So, I'm off to find some Scattered Wanderings, that you may ponder upon. I invite you to come back, and linger, explore, and soak in the words of wonderful women that I have wandered upon. Enjoy their stories.wonder and wonder, and fill your time with pleasant offerings.

Happy New Year, a simple statement often said too often, and without meaning. You may wish people a Happy New Year, but truly, they really must wish it for themselves. There isn't a good wish happiness fairy that can sprinkle magic happy dust upon you making everything wonderful. Each of us has to create and live our dreams to make our New Year truly happy. 
Many blogs I've visited over the past week, have asked that we come up with ONE word. This One word must have meaning in your life throughout following year. 
The word for me is "change", and if I can just sneak in positive, that would be truly where I want to be this year. I'm sure many others will also have a year of change.
Sometimes, things happen in our lives, that are out of our control. Things happen that know matter how hard you try to make sense of them, it is an impossible feat. This does not mean we are not angry, disappointed, hurt, heart-broken or sad, it just means, we need to move forward. Remember, we can't change the past, we can only move to the future, and the only way to do this, is with positive change.
In order to move to the future, we have to just let things go. I'm not just talking emotional things, I'm including real things that have gathered in your home, but no longer have purpose. Perhaps it may be just as simple as changing the furniture, wising that was the case at my home, but it is not.
For me, it is changing the furniture, changing my career, a few renovations, and some planning to begin volunteering yearly in third world countries.
This past December, my family embarked on an Western Caribbean cruise, visiting Belize and Roatan. Orignally we had planned cave tubing in Belize, but plans changed when I found Liberty Orphanage in Ladyville that might better use our help. As quickly as possible once docking, we hailed a cab to visit the preschool on the premises where we taught a little about Canada and enjoyed circle time. It was so heart-warming. Their little hearts sent out such wonderful messages full of love, and smiles blossomed, from all of us. We were so touched by what little they needed. A smile and hug made their day. We left enough little treasures that they could all be wrapped up for Christmas. The song "Do they know it's Christmas time at all"? never rang so true for me. In Roatan, we spent a few hours at Sand Castle library learning about a free education program, PIER. I have yet to decide if my volunteer hours next year will be in Belize or Roatan, but do know that I will volunteer somewhere each year in a third world country.
As much as I loved working with adults and children with developmental and intellectual disabilities and will continue on an on-call basis, I now look forward to supporting seniors with mental health issues. A brand new start with a brand new team.
Of course having a happy attitude goes a long way, and often radiates joy upon others. 
Spread kindness, scatter joy.
2011 Change, bring it on!