Lazy Day Sundays

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You just got to love those days when you really don't have to get dressed, can laze around all day on your laptop, with your cat by your side. Those days when, you can visit all around the world, and never really have to get out of your bed. Laptops, one of life's greatest inventions, and a fine addiction for a day off. Laptops can bring you to France, Spain, Sweden, the Caribbean. Just a few clicks and you are there.

My latest addiction, "Pinterest", where you create theme boards of your choice. One never needs to purchase another magazine, as they are all just at your fingertips. Forget the advertising, no need.

Pinterest holds all your fashion, DIY, decor, travel, & hobby inspirations. Click the link that connects you, usually to someones blog, and you're instantly transferred across the ocean, somewhere in the States, anywhere you want to go.

The difficulty lies in that you assemble all these wonderful photos, loads and loads, of "things to do someday" ideas. One does need to, at one point, get up off their fat ass, and actually start doing some of them, instead of lying in bed with a perfect feline friend purring and snoring beside you.

My lovely princess feline Tess, enjoys these lazy Sundays. She too was gifted with a Cat nip little mattress, which she absolutely loves and enjoys rolling, licking and chewing on it, hmmm, what exactly is in that cat nip?

Not exactly where she is visiting when lying on the cat nip mat, but she sure is lovin' it.



Pinterest can help you broaden your photography skills, the photos are picture perfect. Both Randy and I have fab cameras, although he constantly feels the need to upgrade on a poor man's budget. So practice, practice, with my feline friend. She is being a very cooperative model today. Enjoy a few of her best poses, experimenting with blur, and playing with her new cat nip mat. As well, a few shots of another addiction of
mine, bracelets, scarves and necklaces. Oh well, it could be worse.

Just a typical Sunday winding down after a very busy week, every week... and longing for the holiday, soon....

Raising 3 girls

Raising 3 girls.
One beautiful, gently, quiet, a watcher, One trying to be it all, wants to fit in, tries her hardest, but constantly tries too hard, and it backfires, and the other seems to have the world by tail, a social butterfly, but a get by kid as far as school marks go.

I am not the huge disciplinarian, or rule maker. My motto has been to just "be kind", and believe in yourself.
Yes the rooms are messy, the eldest get disappointed, the youngest couldn't give a crap, and the middle one comes from a very well organized home, and just seems to chill here. They say a messy house is creating memories, but there is a point when it is a little too messy, and we've hit it.

Two of them have made some pretty big mistakes, one has learned from them, the other is still learning, and the other's mistakes have been minimal, not impacting her life so drastically. Unfortunately, someone else in her past has made mistakes which will reflect on this daring daughter, emotionally likely for her lifetime. I pray not.

Things come quite easy for this daughter, she is a team leader/coach, a true friend, and a friend to many casually. She has as many "boy" friends, as she does "girl" friends. She is determined, yet in a very quiet, happy, "whatever" way. She has been the one that cannot sit still, that has to be entertained, or out socially, or even as a baby be held. She needs social contact. She exceeds athletically competing for schools, travelling teams, and for her province in volleyball. She is a true gym rat, but stays inside her comfort zone and in the sport of her choice. She is full of humour, fun to be around. Family is very important to her, she loves family get togethers, and spur of the moment gatherings. She has a true love for her aunties, and grandmas and laughs as she remembers silly things that have happened over the years. She doesn't have a clue what she wants to do in life as most kids in grade nine. She loves school for the social part, not so much for the academics, but realizes marks are important, and suggests she will try harder. As a mom, she may only be saying this to me, as if the choice was to study for academics or play in the gym, I think I can figure out quickly where she would be. She likes her money, and it is her money. She saves it and want me to spend mine until she finds the perfect dress, the brightest top, or the newest trend.She is a last minute joe, just like her mother. She is a red head. In my younger days, redheads were teased. She has loved being the redhead, and is proud of it. She was pleased to know that in her school they really don't practice "kick a ginger day".

I am the step mother to a wonderful step daughter. It has not been an easy road. She has been in my life since the age 4. She was in a nasty custody battle were all we were seeking, was fair access, not custody. There were many trips down to the courthouse, many counselling sessions for all involved, and pick up arrangements at supervised access centres. I still can't figure out how all of it could not have been handled differently without impacting the child so much. I suppose anger plays a big role. (anger continues to play a huge role with my ex, as well). Luckily my girls can get past this, and I believe my stepdaughter has learned to also advocate for herself. It must be hard as a child to come away from this being unscathed. She falls between my two children, and only six months older than my youngest. She has always looked up to my eldest, who is not really maturally four years older. She has tried to dress like her, act like her, have her haircut the same, purchase clothing the same, etc. Through the years, my eldest didn't appreciate this much but was told that it isn't so bad being a role model, and her stepsister would find her niche somewhere. Part of the frustrating thing was that she is only six months older than the youngest, but once the eldest was around, the youngest was cast aside. Sometimes three's don't work very well in a blended family either. She is a dancer, disciplined, scheduled, with high expectations put on her from her family. She is beautiful, kind, and compassionate. Facebook has and continues to bring her sorrow, but she continues to put herself out there, which results in lies to those she loves, and lies to impress others. It has now come to the point where she has learned how to block those she loves for fear of getting in trouble. I am not sure where the lack of confidence comes from, or this overpowering need to be at the top of the social circle, but it will continue to hurt her until she realizes, she really just needs to be herself, not this social, "look at me", impressed the boys personality. She has to realized it is O.K. to just be herself. As a step mother, I do not have full trust, it is always a work in progress, and when she is dishonest, caught in deceit over and over, trust is hard to continue to rebuild
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Facebook is a nasty place for rumours, and undercover lies, growing up is hard, yes.

My oldest Sweet Pea, is a kind, gentle, loving young lady. She can be fun, outgoing, and humourous, but she can also be quiet, still, almost mature beyond her years. Then the switch is flipped and she is back to the young, bouncy little girl. She too, has been around the person that impacted my youngest and hope this isn't any reflection on her. She too has made mistakes with the social network, huge mistakes. I am glad it was a quick mistake, it was realized, and she grew from it, but this mistake did not provide for the happiest high school years. I do believe this mistake has taught her to be more careful, don't take risks, don't put yourself down for anyone, watch who your friends truly are, and find a few true friends. She does not like the pressures of life. She cries more easily. She doesn't advocate for herself, but will sit back and watch life go by. Sometimes she will let things build to a point where she can't take it anymore, and the the volcano will erupt ending in a spew of tears. Nothing so big that a good talk, and a big hug cannot cure. As a baby, she was content to just be put to bed, no need to rock her, as she really didn't like it. She needs her rest still, and quiet times where she can doodle and play with her creative spirit. She gets overwhelmed, but has learned to manage her time well, as well as how to be successful. Now she needs to gain more confidence within herself. At 18, she needs to continue to find out and explore what she wants. She is exploring a career in social work, plays sports, in a kind, loving relationship, and doing her absolute best. She is maturing, she is seeing life from afar, not under her family's wings. She is realizing that everyone is unique and different, and they mature in different ways, and all have different values and morals.

Kids are not easy to raise, but they are a true joy. They add a spark to your life.

Love you my lovelies...Mom

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.