artsmith

Renovations, before pictures

2012-01-19T13:04:00.000-08:00

NERVOUS AS A CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF!

2012-01-09T05:20:00.000-08:00

I woke at 4:30 this morning, either too excited to sleep or too nervous. By 6:00 we were both awake so we got up to begin a very busy day. Well, maybe not as busy for us as for the men who will be tearing up the old carpet, vinyl, etc. but a restless time for us to say the least.

I thought of several things we needed to do to make life easier for both us and the installers, one of which was to empty a drawer on the BIG HEAVY DESK. It was filled with files. As we began to remove the file folders we found a bag which had a card in it. Each of us appeared puzzled as we opened it to reveal the contents. We both had such a hearty laugh when we discovered it was a birthday card for "Wife" which had never been signed. Apparently Wayford had purchased it, who knows how many years ago, stuck it in the drawer to keep me from seeing it and forgot where he had put it. He either went and bought another one or explained that he had not had an opportunity to buy one. We stood and laughed, reading the either belated birthday wish or perhaps a very early one. Nothing like a surprise and a good laugh to start off a very busy day.

December 8, 2011

2011-12-08T17:11:00.000-08:00

It is unbelievable that these roses could still look like this on December 8. For the southern states that might not be so unusual but for Canada, it is amazing!

Cyber Monday!!

2011-11-28T15:44:00.000-08:00

Plumber arrives at 8:00 - Because that took top priority, forgot to put used items out for pick-up by diabetes association.

Plumber repairs toilet - attempts repair on shower, removes problem diverter but does not have a replacement - goes back to shop - does not have one - sends us to Canadian Tire to get one - they do not have one - sends us to plumber shop in Stoney Creek - we go home- weren't sure where the plumbing shop was located - searched for it in phone book and online to no avail - call Home Hardware - they did not have it - called Rona Hardware - they didn't have it but assured me that Home Depot did - called Home Depot - they didn't have it - Called another Canadian Tire - they didn't have it but gave me phone number of the company that makes the faucet - searched online for the company and found the number of the needed part - called company and ordered the part - found out it was under warranty and all I had to pay for was the shipping, should have it in 3 to 10 days. Whew!!

Now for the next ordeal. It always seems a better plan to order things for the great- grandchildren in Oklahoma and have them sent to Lita. So Sears had some items that I really liked. I went online to Sears in the states to place my order with my US dollar credit card. First, it took awhile to find the correct sizes and just the right items. Then, I start the order process. When I got to the point of actually ordering, they wouldn't let me since the credit card has a Canadian address, so I try Pay Pal, still refused, so with my determination, I found a phone number so I could order the items. After being on the phone with a Sears salesman, being put on hold a few times, explaining my plight, I thought it was going to go through. But, no, he finally said I could order from Sears Canada and have it shipped to Oklahoma. I can go into a Sears store in Tulsa, purchase hundreds of dollars of merchandise, use my credit card, no questions asked. I can use Pay Pal on ebay using my card, no questions asked. I can purchase from Amazon, in the states, have the merchandise shipped to Oklahoma, no questions asked. ????? Too bad I'm not getting paid by the hour.!!!!!

The Old Grey Mare

2011-11-18T12:19:00.000-08:00

I decided we needed a way to exercise when the weather is too bad to walk outside so found this little bike at a second hand store. Sooo today, even though I walked this morning, I went for a spin. I did like all the young people do, I got my IPod out, put the ear buds in and had my iTunes randomly search for songs. The first song was "You lift me up" (don't know if that is the name) but it is a very beautiful song. Then the next song was "The Old Grey Mare"."The Old Grey Mare ain't what she used to be". I don't even know how that song got in my song list. I thought it was really appropriate when I was sitting there peddling like crazy. It sure fit the occasion.

Surgery Hurdles!

2011-10-27T14:48:00.000-07:00

Positives: Finally getting solutions, after 8 months of tests

Spending lots of time with hubby

Quality time with children and grandson

Knowing one has enough intestines to spare a few inches

Not getting stuck in elevator, which happened only minutes before getting on

Getting special attention from one special nurse friend (You know who you are!)

Having good accommodations at Comfort Inn

Negatives: Seeing the 22 staples in Hubby's abdomen

Recognizing his lack of appetite when the broth, jello, and juice are placed before him

Getting hubby to drink enough water

Finding high fiber foods that suit hubby's appetite

Having questions about redness around staples

Having questions about distended abdomen

Trying to have a good bowel movement

Some hurdles are yet to be faced but so far we have been able to get over the ones we've had.

can you spot the spider web?

2011-10-14T16:49:00.001-07:00

Look at the roof of the house.

my best harvest moon shot

2011-10-10T18:00:00.000-07:00

A view of fall colours on my street

2011-10-10T17:57:00.001-07:00

Cat and Birds

2011-10-09T10:27:00.001-07:00

If only the cat knew the birds were in the front of the house, he would move to the front. This cat was on the rail of our deck when I got up this morning. The dove keep hanging around our front yard.

Dove

2011-10-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

These little babies, which look full grown already, have made their home in our front yard. They blend in perfectly with the mulch. It is almost impossible to see them when they are on the mulch. They hatched in the tree in our front yard. I nearly scared one half to death one morning when I came barreling up on the front porch at the end of my walk. I had no idea it was on the porch.

Beautiful entrance to Georgian Bay

2011-10-03T17:07:00.001-07:00

A few pictures I took through the windshield as we drove into Meaford. Such an awesome sight.

New Glasses

2011-06-21T10:26:00.001-07:00

I did a bit of photoshopping. The other lady had so many wrinkles! This one has a few but not as many. I'm sure it was just my camera or the photographer!

RAIN FOREST IN CANADA???

2011-05-27T15:02:00.000-07:00

Friday 13th again!!

2011-05-16T06:42:00.000-07:00

Could today be a continuation of Friday 13th? Dark cloudy day! Cold enough to wear gloves for walking.

I decided this would be a good morning to make oatmeal muffins. Got them in the oven and about half way through baking, the hydro went off. Will the oven be hot enough to continue baking them? Perhaps it will only be off a few minutes.

What do I do now? I can't check email or facebook on the PC. The power is off. Oh, yeah, the laptop is fully charged. I can check them there!! Oh, but, there is no internet connection.

Power comes back on and the muffins turn out well. Had a good breakfast and my helper was clearing the table when he spilled a pitcher of cream. What a mess! Nothing to do but clean it up.

Then, while sweeping the grass cuttings off the floor, which we had tracked in because some people do not clear them from the sidewalk, I see ants crawling. Time to get the ant traps out.

Well, at least we are not having to evacuate because of wild fires or floods. Life is GOOD!!

April Storm

2011-05-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

While we were in Oklahoma, dodging storms, Beamsville experienced its own storm of sorts. It was not deemed a tornado but straight winds of 124 km per hour. Many trees were uprooted, shingles were blown off roofs and fences were blown down.

After we got home I went for my morning walk. I was walking my usual path, not paying a lot of attention to the area ahead of me when all of a sudden I see a tree blocking the entire path. I said, either out loud or in my mind "whoa". Thankfully it was at an area where I could go down another path and didn't have to go all the way back to get home.

huge tree which had fallen

the roots of the tree

Oklahoma visit

2011-05-03T17:53:00.000-07:00

One reason the kids love Marcia!The pink slippers match the scarf and flower in the hair perfectly!

Bet you can't find us now!!

A NEW BABE IN CHRIST

2011-03-31T16:08:00.000-07:00

Angels rejoiced and we who have been reading with international students are thrilled as one of our readers requested baptism. Our prayers are for him as he continues to study and grow spiritually.

2011-03-07T18:29:00.000-08:00

Some amazing sights greeting me as I arrived at church Sunday morning.

And then on Sunday evening this one captivated my attention!

2011-02-25T11:18:00.000-08:00

This little dove is wondering!! Which way is Mexico???
The biggest snowfall of the winter came last night and this morning. It was blowing quite hard, thus the magical images that were visible.

WHAT RETIRED PEOPLE DO!!

2011-02-16T13:01:00.001-08:00

Maw and Paw watch the lights on the new washer!!

LAKE ONTARIO ON A WINTERY DAY

2011-02-16T12:33:00.000-08:00

Lake Ontario as seen from the Beacon Motel.

Look for the CN Tower across the lake!

OUR NEWEST MEMBER OF OUR LIFE GROUP

2011-02-13T18:00:00.001-08:00

Our Life Group was blessed with our beautiful Lyla today. Only 5 days old, she performed beautifully! We got to pass her around and snuggle with her. She did not mind a bit.

We appreciate her mom and dad, Dave and Lori, for sharing her with us.

Delayed Christmas Gift

2011-02-11T17:56:00.000-08:00

We cashed in on a Christmas present today. Linda took a day off to spend the day with us. We could do anything we wanted. We began the day with a late breakfast at Cora's ( a fantastic breakfast restaurant!) We then went shopping for a new washer. I left home thinking I would get a front loader. I wound up buying a top loader that works like a front loader. It has no impeller and uses much less water than a normal top loader. We then shopped at the Mall, had a Timothy's coffee and waited for the theater to open so we could see the movie "The King's Speech" at 4:40. The movie was really good. I would recommend it! Marcia was able to join us for the movie. We then went to Lina Linguini's for dinner after the movie. Oh, and we also had to do a bit of shopping at Costco's before the Mall shopping. It was a great day! Thanks, Linda.

Snow in 2011

2011-02-03T17:56:00.000-08:00

Our snowmageddon did not turn out to be spectacular. It was beautiful today with the sun shining. We went out for dinner tonight and all the streets were cleared as was the parking lot.

It is really cold but no wind.

Placing our Babies in God's Hands

2011-01-10T07:12:00.000-08:00

WE WON'T GIVE UP! WE WON'T GIVE UP! WE WON'T GIVE UP!

2011-01-10T06:57:00.000-08:00

We started this puzzle Christmas week. We hope to have it completed by the time baseball season begins!

December 31, 2010

2011-01-01T07:32:00.000-08:00

While everyone else has been buried in snow we have been spared the white stuff. This is what our front lawn looks like.

We enjoyed a New Year's party hosted by the Perry's and the Fournier's. Food, food, food and games for everyone.

We are invited to Linda's and Marcia's for lunch today. Good way to begin the New Year.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-26T14:42:00.000-08:00

It was a quiet but wonderful day! Marcia was just getting over a bout with stomach flu and was certainly not her joyful self. However, we were ever so glad she felt like being with us.

We had a wonderful dinner and so many exciting gifts. I have already used my new Canon lenses. We had a baptism at our church building this afternoon and I took pictures. Normally when I take pictures at a baptism they turn out really dark. These were bright and wonderful. I almost had tears in my eyes because they turned out so well.

FEELING OLD!!

2010-12-17T16:23:00.000-08:00

It really makes me feel old when I am filling out a form on the internet. When it asks what year I was born and it starts at 2010 and goes down to the year of my birth, it goes on forever before getting to the correct year! Sooo intimidating!

TWO THANKSGIVING CELEBRATIONS

2010-11-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!! As a dual citizen I get to celebrate Thanksgiving twice each year. Actually I am thankful for so many blessings that I receive each day of the year!! Our Canadian custom of observance in October was a delightful time at a cottage near Huntsville, ON.

Marcia picked a perfect spot for our Sunday morning worship that week-end.
No pictures of our beautiful turkey dinner but one of a more casual breakfast. Since our US thanksgiving day is just another work day for most, and since Wayford and I will be the only two to cook for, we will be taking advantage of Swiss Chalet's festive dinner tonight!

2010-11-18T06:58:00.000-08:00

Have you had days that feel like this? I can explain some of the attire! I had purchased new shoes. $135+tx. Will I be able to wear them? After being instructed by the shoe store to wear them a few minutes morning and evening to see if they feel good, I did that. I can also explain the long underwear showing under the robe. I had just finished my morning walk. I know you are just dying to know if the shoes felt good. They didn't. I had to return them. Now I am $135 +tx richer!!! There is absolutely no explanation for the robe and the hair and the face. Now you know what Wayford has to put up with.

2010-11-18T06:51:00.000-08:00

Winter is coming! I never realized a bird family was living in my front yard until the leaves left to reveal their home. Will they return to this nest next spring? I will watch for them.

The Bobsey Twins

2010-10-26T07:03:00.001-07:00

This is what happens when a couple have been married as long as we have. What a laugh we had when we realized we had dressed alike! I accused Wayford of copying me but he reminded me that he had dressed first.

2010-10-21T07:59:00.000-07:00

One of my little friends from church made this card for med. I just had to share it with you!

FINALLY ARRIVED!

2010-10-21T07:53:00.000-07:00

You know you have truly become a senior citizen when you have to have a chart to keep track of your medications. After seeing a Dr. in the ER on Saturday I came home with two new prescriptions (I already had been taking routine meds). One was for pain (Tylenol 3) and the other was for????????????(Ibuprophen 600 mg). Ohhhh the pain medication was so wonderful. Finally, after 5 days of pain, I could be comfortable again. Then the Ibuprophen---one tablet three times a day with food. After taking four of them I began to feel pain in my stomach, even though I had taken them with food as prescribed. So, I knew to stop but the medication had already apparently done a great deal of damage to the stomach. So, on Monday, when I saw my family Dr., he prescribed another medication to heal the stomach. It was to be taken once a day. Then, when the Dr. got the report from my ER visit he found that I had a bladder infection. So, now another prescription. This one cannot be taken within an hour of taking any dairy product, which would include my regular calcium pill. The Tylenol 3 has a tendency to constipate so now I have to eat a lot of fiber as well as drink a lot of water.

Enough already! Which pill do I take now? Did I take that one already? Is this one with food or without dairy products? What a person to do? Make a chart. I felt just like Grandma Smith.

And then there are the appointment times to be remembered. CT scan on Wednesday, Ultra Sound on Friday, Family Dr. on Monday, Three visits to the ER, one for blood work and a blood thinner injection and another for another blood thinner injection and another to get the results of the CT scan. In addition to that, I had an appointment for a field test for my eyes on Wednesday, which I had to cancel because of the CT scan.

I am thankful for Drs. who can diagnose conditions and treat them. I am thankful that there was no blood clot. I am thankful for machines that are so helpful in making diagnoses. I am thankful that at my age I am still as physically fit as I am.

SUNRISE, SUNSET

2010-10-17T13:20:00.000-07:00

One of my most favourite things to do is take pictures of the sunrise and sunset. What beautiful pictures God has painted for us to enjoy!

Bon Fire at the end of the day!

2010-10-12T12:49:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights of our trip to Skeleton Lake was our campfire at the end of the day. The kids finally got to roast their marshmallows. Some of the older folk also got into the act, however they wound up with more on the ground than in their mouth.

DON'T WORRY, BE HAPPY!

2010-10-05T06:27:00.000-07:00

I have found the perfect solution to worry. Recently, while shopping at a prominent store in Michigan, I found the solution!!!! Did you realize that the brand of pants you wear could be the answer? I'm not sure what kinds of worry this covers. Perhaps it is just assurance that your fly is zipped! Or, perhaps, if you spill your coffee it will never be noticed. Or maybe that your shirt and socks really do match the pants. Or maybe the cost of the pants will not put you into bankruptcy. However, here it is---the worry free pant!!

THE LAST ROSE OF SUMMER

2010-10-01T17:24:00.000-07:00

BEAUTIFUL WITH WATER DROPS ADORNING IT!

THE AMATEUR TRAPPER

2010-09-30T13:14:00.000-07:00

Fruit flies have taken over my kitchen!! No wonder, when I have had such an abundance of fresh fruit, but what do I do to get rid of them? I know there are many creatures that would be more annoying, more scary, more dangerous, but these little pests are really annoying. So, I go online to get some ideas of how to eradicate these pesky things. With saran over the top of the glass and with holes poked into the saran, and some soapy water and fruit peels in the glass they crawl into the glass and there they meet their doom. It is working!!! They crawl in but can't find a way out and they drown!

One person suggested they were too small to shoot. One said to eat a few and the rest would be so scared they would leave but I found this to be the easiest method of elimination. So this is your helpful hint of the day!

A DARK CLOUDY RAINY DAY!

2010-09-28T08:02:00.000-07:00

What does one do when it is rainy and cloudy and dark? I paint! Well, almost. First I want to print a copy of a couple of photos that I took while in Wyoming last month to use as my reference. So, I go to the PC and print one. I discover that the color cartridge is low and the color just does not come out like it should so rather than put a new cartridge in I will go to the Mac and print one. What do I discover? Since we put a new hard drive in my Mac my printer is not recognized. So, after much fiddling around I decide to download a new driver for my printer on my Mac. Got that done but the output on the printer is not very good. So, I decide to do a test print. I put an old sheet of paper in the printer to do that. It gets jammed in the printer. So, I need to take the back off the printer clear the paper jam. But my light is not good so I reach for my trusty flashlight to give me some light. However, the flashlight has been left on and the batteries are dead. Boy, do I need a cup of coffee! So, my sympathetic husband makes me a coffee, complete with a granola bar! I replace the batteries, find that the printer is working, the sun has come out! I am back in the painting business once again!! However, it is almost lunch time so the painting will have to wait until another time!

A Saturday Morning Ritual

2010-09-25T11:03:00.000-07:00

After taking a mile and a half walk and about 30 minutes of stretching and

while I am making our usual pancake breakfast, the hubby is assembling his meds for the week.

You'll notice that most of the meds are vitamins. That's what keeps this fellow going!

And.....of course, one always winds up on the white floor, which makes it almost impossible to see. Oh, well, a person has to get their exercise some way!

THE END OF A WONDERFUL WEEK

2010-09-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

My week began with a trip to Troy, Michigan. Lita came to Sandra and Roger's home with friends and we joined them there and brought Lita home with us. My sick computer kept

Roger busy all day Monday. But, alas, by the end of the day it was up and running again.

Dinner at the Lake House Restaurant was wonderful! The food was delicious and the company was fun!

Since Lita and I have cameras which are identical, well except for the fact that she has a more dignified lens, we did lots of experimenting with photos during the week.

This is my version of the harvest moon, notice the star directly underneath the moon.Later in the week our focus was on the fall harvest. Grapes, apples and pumpkins.

It was a fun week! It just ended too quickly! I am thankful to God for the relationship I have with each of my daughters, a bit of heaven on earth.

Our recent VACATION in Memphis

2010-08-02T18:32:00.001-07:00

If you have to have a delay in flight travels, this is the way to go!! Of course, it would be more convenient to have your own luggage, especially your own hair brush, toothbrush, pj's etc. But if you don't , you can make do with wearing your underwear for pj's (or wearing your husband's underwear!) And the way to really enjoy this luxury is to travel from Atlanta to Columbus, Miss. and then to Memphis in very small, very warm planes before you get to the luxurious, cool hotel. You see, when you are just 20 minutes from boarding your scheduled flight and the announcement is made that your flight is cancelled (no explanation given!) you hardly know which way to turn, especially when you are informed that the next available flight is 28 hours away! At least we were stranded together! We also did not have a wedding to attend or a funeral or other function that was obligatory. We prayed for a safe trip. Perhaps if our plane had been on time, it might not have been a safe trip. So thank you God, for looking out for us.

Our stay at the luxurious motel was very comfortable!

Three Days in Thunder Bay

2010-05-31T16:02:00.000-07:00

It was a time of celebration. It was a time of family fun. We had to get up reallllly early to drive to Toronto on Thursday morning to fly to TB. We arrived in TB at 9:45 a.m. So we had the day to visit with the kids. What fun! After lunch Kyle suggested we go for a walk. So, Wayford, Wilma, Sandra, Kyle and Bayleigh went across the road from Kyle's house to a trail through the woods. Since it was a really hot, sunny day we covered ourselves with sunscreen. Well, that probably wasn't necessary because most of the area we hiked was in heavy bush which kept us in the shade. Now, because there was shade, there was mud, because it had not dried out since the last rain (or snow). A few places there were rickety bridges which we crossed and one place there was a pile of small logs that were loose(maybe you think that was not a challenge for this great-grandma). Thankfully we were a bit early for mosquitoes and black flies. Now, if you know Kyle, he has been known to take people on hikes, convincing them he knew where he was going, when in fact he was going the wrong way and winding up miles away from their destination (right, Jeff and Jeremy?). In fact a pair of sandals are still imbedded in the mud somewhere in the Meaford area. We take comfort in the new technology that can track him now wherever he goes. We didn't have that tracking device with us on this trek. He kept telling us that we were only a few minutes from a look-out. By this time Bayleigh is upset because she thinks the mud on her shoes is dog dirt and Grandpa is complaining that his hip is hurting. We did eventually reach the look-out. Now, what to do? Do we walk back the way we came? Do we walk along the highway, which is only a few feet away? Do we call back to the house and ask someone to come get us? As it happens, there is only one vehicle available. It is a truck with three car seats and room for one adult besides the driver. OK, Bayleigh gets the car seat, Grandpa gets the passenger seat. Where does that leave, Kyle, Sandra and Grandma? You guessed it! We climb into the back of the truck. We laughed all the way down the hill to the house. Reminded us of going fishing, riding in the back of Grandpa Lawson Smith's old truck.

We had great times playing with the girls.

Breakfast together afforded the girls with an unusual situation. Four grandpas were all seated together. Two grandpas and two great-grandpas.

These were just serendipities of our reason for being there. After these things the celebrations began. Friday evening Kyle was hooded as an MD and then Saturday afternoon both Kyle and Jessica graduated from the Northern Ontario School of Medicine. Kyle will be a resident doctor at the hospital in Thunday Bay for two years. Jessica is presently working in a fitness center there in Thunder Bay.

The evening closed with a formal dinner honoring the new doctors and their families. Sunday morning began again with a very early schedule. Wayford and I left TB at 6:10 a.m. and arrived back in Toronto in time to get to church at Tintern by 9:45. It was a great time of celebration!

Fitting Room Mirrors

2010-05-12T11:36:00.000-07:00

This may seem a bit petty, but I am so disappointed with the mirrors provided in the fitting rooms of Ladies dress shops. Wouldn't you think they would get rid of the mirrors that are used at carnivals that make one look much wider than they really are! Come to think of it, the lighting also makes ones face look like there are wrinkles on it. And, there seems to be streaks of grey in the hair. Great Day! Can't they do better than that with their mirrors? Why, I can remember when the mirrors were much better. No bulges around the abdomen, No wrinkles on the face, No grey streaks in the hair. But, they are all the same. Guess we'll just have to put up with it!!!

2010-05-09T17:34:00.000-07:00

This has been a great Mother's Day. Mother's Day greetings from each of my daughters. These girls have been a wonderful blessing to my life. We don't have many occasions to all be together but when we do we thoroughly enjoy our time together. I thank God for each of them.

"Born 30 years too soon"

2010-04-20T13:32:00.000-07:00

A comic strip that was published when I was a child had the title "Born 30 years too soon". That was just saying that I am too old to understand the newest trends and technology. Sometimes I feel that is what is happening to me. A visit to the hospital in Hamilton renewed that idea.

First, we turn into the parking garage and follow the sign for parking. However, we got into the exit lane and when there was no way to back out we had to exit the garage (hoping it would take our ticket without having paid, since we had only entered three minutes before and could not pay because we were in the exit lane) and then re-enter. We then get into the hospital which in under construction (however, the huge HOSPITAL ENTRANCE sign was a dead giveaway as to where to enter). Once inside we go to information to find where we are to go to meet the Dr. No one in the information booth, but a phone to pick up to ask for info. After a short wait a voice responds, which hospital are you wanting information for???? Thankfully I did know which hospital I was in. She instructed me as to where to go, however, when she said go around the elevators and down the looooong hall, we went around the elevators the wrong way. Got to the end of the long hall and had to ask for more information from hospital employees. Finally reached the correct office. (by this time we aren't sure we will ever need to know where we parked our car because we would never find our way out!) Oh, yeah and there is a Tim Hortons just a few feet way. Yea!!! Wayford gives his information to the office staff. We have 30 minutes to spare so, you guessed it, we head for a coffee. It was at that time that Wayford discovers that he has lost the paper on which he had listed all his meds. We had only walked a few feet since he had produced it. Had the lady at the desk kept it? Did I put it in my purse? Did he put it in his pocket? Did he lay it down at Tim's? I nearly wore out my purse looking for it. Alas, he had laid it down on a table in the Dr's office when he put his health card back into his wallet. So, all is well. Visit with Dr. is over. Got good report!

Even bathrooms can be a challenge. I never know when to push - when to wave - when to flush. About the time I get one gadget figured out they change the system.

Now to figure out how to pay for our parking at the parking garage. OK, we put our ticket in that slot. And yes, we can use our credit card. But where do we insert card? It says put ticket in this slot. I don't want to put my card in there. I may never see it again. Meanwhile, Wayford puts card in pocket. After looking at the pictures on machine it shows that in fact the card does go in that same slot. But, where is the card? No, I didn't put it in my purse. Finally, Wayford discovers that he does, in fact, have the card. No problem finding the car and getting home. We were "Born 30 years too soon!"

Curiosity!!!

2010-04-19T16:34:00.000-07:00

We had one baptism and seven who wanted to see what it was all about. Or, was it the draw of putting their hands into the water? Devon Walker was baptized last Tuesday night. Devon is 12 years old. His brother who is 10 was really happy. He is sure Devon will be nicer to him now.

An event to forget!

2010-03-25T17:04:00.000-07:00

With all the medical technology that has been invented, surely there is another way to check for breast cancer other than a mammogram. Today was THE day! When I was 40 I could persuade my body to get into all the contortions needed but at 74? Lean into the machine - relax your shoulders - turn your head about 45 degree angle - hold your arm around this machine - hold your other breast back!!! Then the squeezing begins. You think it is clamped as tightly as possible and then you hear bzzzzz , bzzzzz, bzzzz and feel the pressure being applied even harder. So you hold your breath, partly because of the pain and partly because you sure don't want to have to do a re-take.

In all seriousness, we are truly blessed to have such medical technology. These new machines are digital and will show up any possible problems. More women are being called back for retakes because of the detailed pictures. The pain is minimal compared to the things people endure when they do have breast cancer. Be sure to get your mammogram when it is due.

The stages of a tree

2010-02-27T13:11:00.000-08:00

My neighbor has a beautiful flowering crab tree. I have been photographing it throughout the year. It is beautiful in the winter when it is covered with snow.

Then when there is no snow and no leaves it is quite drab. But the birds still find a place to rest.

Then, spring comes and the magic begins. Absolutely covered with beautiful blossoms.

Then fall comes. The leaves are all gone but the crab apples hang on.

Then, back to the drab tree. But now the crab apples become a feast for the birds. Hundreds of birds ascend upon that tree and literally strip it.

I hope my neighbor enjoys it as much as I do. It is so neat to watch the various stages of that tree.

album 02\26\2010 (2 photos), by Wilma Smith

2010-02-26T20:09:00.001-08:00

I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos

The different stages of a tree

2010-02-26T15:32:00.000-08:00

The foot saga again!

2010-01-25T12:57:00.001-08:00

Another aging problem. Pads between the knees at night to keep the back from hurting, pads between the toes to keep the toes from turning in and now a pad beneath the toes to keep the feet from hurting. What next? I think I just need more natural padding to keep everything in place.

bedroom gets a facelift

2010-01-09T13:32:00.000-08:00

My decorating ability is just happenstance. Recently when we had overnight company, we chose to put our guest in our bedroom so she would not have to climb stairs. To dress her bed up a bit I decided to use the beautiful quilt that my sister, Rena, had made for me a few years ago. When I put it on the bed it looked really nice with the colors of the wall, etc. Since I had been using my old spread for ten years I thought it might be time to change the appearance of the room. Then I began to wonder if I could use the quilt as a spread. But I would need a new bedskirt. So, the shopping began for just the right color. The pillows I was using was a good color. If I could just find a bedskirt that color that would be good. I looked a couple of places and was not having much success. Then I remembered there were sheets that matched the pillow covers I was using. Could I make a bedskirt out of the sheets. Well I did make a cover for a canoe one time, perhaps I could make a bedskirt, so the wheels began to turn. After lots of measuring and cutting it all came together. Then while I was doing the sewing I noticed a painting that I had done several months ago that had not found a home. Alas, the color was perfect to use with the quilt and bedskirt. Then, I decided to make pillow shams with the remaining material from the sheets. So you see. It all looks good together and it was all just happenstance. Not my interior decorating ability.

Not all celebrations are alike

2009-12-26T11:39:00.000-08:00

Whereas in 2008 the family enjoyed the comfort of a hot tub. Relaxed to the max.

In 2009 time was spent putting new memory in a laptop. After all this we need a little more time in the hot tub.

2010 Olympic torch run

2009-12-25T18:25:00.000-08:00

The torch to begin the 2010 Olympics has been making its rounds throughout Canada over the past several days. Sunday, December 20 was the date it made its way through Beamsville. Everyone from the Tintern congregation was invited to view the torch run from the Tallman's parking lot. Then following the run we were invited to have a bowl of chili at the Fireside Room. This was an exciting gathering. A friend of ours will be carrying the flag on December 28. We will only get to view that on TV. Since he lives in Meaford I think that will be the area in which he will run.

christmas 2009

2009-12-25T15:10:00.001-08:00

Grandpa spends time with Madison
Bayleigh loves coloring
Shiloh just practices looking beautiful
Shiloh and Bayleigh enjoy each other
Linda helps to spoil Shiloh

Christmas morning begins with brunch at Linda and Marcia'

Preparing the bird was of first importance!

Then, a beautiful brunch starting with soda bread and......
.....all the wonderful trimmings
While the turkey is cooking and after several games, Dad takes a siesta in front of the fireplace.
We are then presented with the menu for dinner!
Our beautiful table setting......
......complete with Grandma Smith's china. She would be honored!
The bird is ready to be carved.
And, we are ready to eat
Wow! what a feast!

We are truly blessed!!

The Shoe Solution

2009-11-15T14:01:00.001-08:00

I have discovered a way to take attention from THE shoes. Wear THE hat!

Shoe story

2009-10-22T16:49:00.000-07:00

Not to be outdone by my daughter, I must post my feelings about my new shoes. I have recently had to get shoes with a wider toe box to accommodate problems with my feet. Now if I had a size 5 foot like my daughter it would not be so bad but a size 9 1/2 makes it really embarrassing. When I saw the "WIDE" sign attached to them I thought about the wide loads going down the highway that have a truck preceding and following to warn other drivers of the "WIDE" load. But, just today I thought of a good use for these shoes. If I am ever tempted to water ski I will be able to just use my shoes for skis. Start that boat and away we go!!

Oh, well. The shoes are more comfortable and I am thankful that shoe companies have put together shoes that will accommodate my problem. Now if I can just get enough money together to pay for them.

BAD Day Coming

2009-09-30T11:09:00.000-07:00

You know its going to be a bad day when you start to get in the car and before you get in, your husband takes a notion to turn on the windshield washers. Not a good way to get your eye glasses cleaned!!

Lauren Discovers Grandma Smith's purse

2009-09-25T12:48:00.001-07:00

Lauren knew what each item was. The pen

light was a new item but in just moments

she got the hang of using it.

Renewing friendships

2009-09-21T10:11:00.000-07:00

A beautiful Sunday afternoon drive brought

us to Stratford for a visit with the Hoover clan.

Deborah and Paul , who live just down the

street from Marj. Their two sons are

attending GLCHS.

Kelvin and Kathy are pictured with Deborah'

sons Ben and Joe.

Steve lives in Windsor. His wife Diane was not

able to be there with him.

It was a great reunion! Nice for Marj to

have her family with her for a few days.

New Window Project

2009-09-14T16:57:00.000-07:00

The old windows with the blue trim.

The new windows with the sandstone trim.

A Day at the Ball Park

2009-09-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

The GO train was another new experience for Jacob and Lauren

A pair of binoculars for each of the kids.

Nachos for lunch!

The loong walk back through the Skywalk to catch the GO train.

What to do while waiting?

A tired senior and tired and great grandson.

Budding Artists

2009-09-07T08:12:00.001-07:00

Looks like we have a budding artist!

When Linda a Trista went to the store to get toys

Lauren saw the canvas and paints and would not settle for anything else.

Well, maybe two budding artists!

Jacob got in on the act.

All this after a very tiring day at Niagara Falls.

Grandkids visit to NIAGARA Falls

2009-09-06T17:10:00.000-07:00

There are stories behind every picture. This one is a favourite!

Feeding nectar to the birds. I love the look on Jacob's face

Notice the bird next to Lauren's ear. She was so brave!

Feeding the gulls was such fun!

Lauren couldn't resist stomping in the puddles!

Bonding time with Gwampa Smif!

Gwamma Smif's "special" hat!

Some of the group didn't have to walk.

The people mover was exciting!

Gold fish snack.

Waiting for the people mover!

"Up the creek with no paddle" or "Stranded with no Sudoku"

2009-08-21T08:30:00.000-07:00

http://www.truveo.com/toronto-tornado-august-20-2009

Sorry I don't have any pictures but if you follow this link you will see what a wild night Toronto had last night.

I will begin with our very different Blue Jay trip experience. Checked the weather, yes, it was calling for thunderstorms but in the dome that would not be a problem. Failed to check traffic on the QEW. We had planned to catch the GO at 4:15. Because of an earlier accident on the Skyway bridge two lanes were closed so at 4:15 we were still navigating the QEW. OK, another train would go at 4:45. But would we be there in time for it? Should we just drive into TO.? No, another train would be leaving at 5:15 so surely we could catch it and still get tickets before 7:00. If we could just get from Union Station to the dome without any rain. No problem. Got our tickets, had time for our usual hotdog and inside in time for the warm up drills.

Very soon after the game started we began to hear thunder. Now, to be able to hear it above the noice in the dome tells me it must be quite a storm .
About the fifth inning the dome begins to open and no rain now falling.

It was a lousy game, at least for Blue Jay fans. Not only could they not hit but they made all kinds of errors. Anyway, 9:45 game over, good timing. We will get home before midnight. When we got into Union Station there was a posting for our train say to "wait" there was a delay. Because of the storm the switching signals had been damaged and had to be repaired. Two hours later we were still waiting. About 1:30 our train finally arrived.

So, what do you do for those hours when you are waiting. You listen intently for the periodic announcements regarding the delay. But apparently the announcer had marbles in his mouth because many of us could not understand what he said. We would compare our interpretation with those around us who were also waiting. Of all times to be without a Sudoku book. First, you try to find a seat. You just wait 'til someone gets up and you grab it! Then you begin to watch people. My focus was on the types of shoes people wear. Many, many were wearing flipflops. A few ladies in extremely high heels (yikes!). but apparently Wayford's focus was on their feet. On the way home at about 2:30 in the morning he said "Ever notice how funny people's little toes are?" After being in the Atchley family for 57 years and knowing the oddity of our little toes they would have to be quite odd for him to notice. I should be happy that that is where his focus was because some of the apparel could have drawn attention to other parts of the body.

We began to speculate as to what if?? What if they don't get the train running again tonight? It's too late to call someone to come get us! Could we go to a hotel? How much would a taxi cost to take us to Burlington to get our car? There was even a poster with a homeless girl lying on bare springs for a bed and that thought crossed my mind.

Anyway our train came, we got part way to Burlington and someone pulled the emergency cord and that had to be checked out before we could go on.

Then an announcement that the train would only take us to Oakville and we would be bused on to Burlington. Guess what? Not enough busses to carry us all. So they had to make a call for more busses. Another wait. After about 20 minutes the busses arrived and took us on (making two stops before we got to Burlington). At 3:06 I was safe in my own bed, thankful that the tornado missed the dome.

Would I do the GO again? Yeah, perhaps another night like last night will not happen again for a long time.

Storm in Oklahoma 2009

2009-08-16T11:25:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite things that came

out of the storm was a comment Jacob

made. While he and Jeremy and Lauren

were watching the hail fall, Jeremy heard

the noise of what turned out to be a mini

tornado. With one swoop he took the kids

to a closet and instructed them to huddle down.

That would have been an unfamiliar pose for them,

and a bit scary, I'm sure. Jacob, in his 5 year old

wisdom said "Jesus, 'tect us!"

If we could have as much faith as a 5 year old!

July '09 trip to Oklahoma

2009-08-14T18:10:00.000-07:00

A beautiful evening for an outdoor wedding

in Oklahoma in August. It was still quite

warm even though it was 7:00 p.m.

A part of the Atchley clan who have assembled

for the wedding.

An impressive wedding party.

Part of Great-grandma Smith's time was spent

reading books to the kids. One of them was

all "tuckered out"

It wouldn't be Oklahoma without a storm.

Very little hail but lots of wind and rain.

BDC-2009- Day 5

2009-07-06T16:00:00.001-07:00

Arriving early on Friday morning the Rome marketplace looks much different than it does when the children get there. It's kinda the calm before the storm.

Gayle is cooking up "rat kabobs" for the children's snack.

A Roman soldier closes a Christian's shop. The Christian would not deny that she was a Christian.

Noel leads one of the boys groups in a game.

All the Roman Guards get involved in leading the song for the kids.

Some beautiful girls during closing time.

2009-07-04T13:06:00.001-07:00

BDC 2009- Day 4

2009-07-02T13:21:00.000-07:00

Roman officials.

Margaret, who kept each of us supplied with goods and held the entire program together.

Gayle, who prepared all the refreshments for the kids and Betty, who brought goodies for the workers each day, plus helped baby sit.

How sweet is this!!!!

Zack was such a big help with the babies.

Hope and Renea, who made coffee and tea each day.

A skit by some of the Pleasant Valley group.

Wilma and Bev in the wreath making shop.

The carpenter shop was a favourite for some of the older boys.
Attendance was down a bit today but still lots of activity happening. We focused a lot on the babies today. The ones who looked after the babies so the parents could teach are really an asset.

BDC- day 3

2009-07-01T12:47:00.000-07:00

Not many new things to photograph today. An ordinary citizen of Rome is being promoted to a high position and is given some precious gifts, a necklace and ring are being placed upon him. Also a photograph of the carpenter and one of Noel and Andrew and Cassie during the opening time. Our total today was 155. Down a bit from yesterday. We are celebrating Canada Day today and paid tribute to Canada during our song time.

BDC day 2

2009-06-30T11:48:00.000-07:00

Jeremius

Fabius Noelius

Two Roman soldiers guard the door.

The farmer bargains with the coffee lady.

Jeremias and Noelus

Paul is in prison but with the jailkeeper I don't think he feels too badly about it.

Roman farmers display their animals.

One of the groups getting instructions.

A slave has been freed.

An arm wrestling match between activities.

The group from Pleasant Valley in Little Rock, plus one of our own who has claimed them to be his family.

Two days down, three to go. It was surprisingly orderly for there to be 158 children in our BDC today. The group leaders have done a remarkable job of keeping their group busy.

BDC - Day One

2009-06-29T13:51:00.000-07:00

Bedlam broke loose when 149 children arrived for Bible Day Camp. At one point it was standing room only in the foyer. The registrars were scrambling to accomodate all the ones coming in. However, order prevailed when the Roman guards imposed their authority. The family group leaders were in their places and the workshops were ready for business. One denarius from each child would allow them to participate in a workshop or partake of the goodies provided by the snack ladies. Noelius(aka Noel) did a magnificent job of directing the group in songs. Paul was arrested and put in prison. He had several visitors, however the 45 pre-schoolers proved too much for the size of the cave that imprisoned Paul. Some Denarii were stolen from one workshop and the threat of other imprisonments may be forthcoming. Will we survive another day like today??? Stay tuned.

Bible Day Camp 2009 - preparation day

2009-06-29T13:30:00.000-07:00

Several have worked for months to make this BDC a reality but with arrival of 14 youngpeople and 7 adults form Arkansas, it all came together today. The last bits of painting, getting refreshments ready, hanging the decorations and etc. were done Sunday afternoon. The workers were asked to bring a sack lunch and prepare their booths on after church Sunday. As it turned out it was 6:00 before I could get my jobs finished enough to leave. Noel projected our having 150. By the time we had finished our worship we had 130 pre-registered.

A New Shopping Experience

2009-06-25T08:33:00.000-07:00

What better way to spend this hot June day than shopping for books. Book Depot had a special where you could fill a box with any book in their warehouse for $30. Doors opened at 9:00. We were there by 9:30. Were we the only ones there at that time? No way! The aisles were already getting crowded. Shopping carts, strollers, motorized carts, you name it. There was very little organization to the books. I was overwhelmed. At first all I could see was books without being able to look at titles or authors. After awhile I got the hang of it. Boy did I get the hang of it! Dad has the cart with the box and I am roaming all over the place. Where do I head first? the children's books of course. I saw lots of books for Dummies but none for the Dummy that I need (Photoshop Elements). I begin loading my arms up with books and then try to find Wayford in the crowd. I scan the area looking for a distinguished man with white hair. Do you have any idea how many men fit that description (well not many that look distinguished, but many with white hair). My arms are aching from holding the books when I finally spot him. I unload my books into the box and I'm off again. When we check the box to see if it will hold any more we discover that it will hold a few more books so I head for the kids booka again. What a haul!!! I couldn't find any John Grisham or Mary Higgins Clark so some of the books I got may go immediately into recycle, but we will see.

Day Three, Pittsburgh

2009-06-16T17:05:00.000-07:00

Rub-a-dub, three men in a tub. For our Sunday morning church we met in Lorna's room. The hot tub made a perfect place to sit since there was no water in it.

What is all the excitement?

A groundhog just outside the motel.

Three scriptures were used for our communion service. The singing was beautiful.
After our services were over we again went to the Outlet Mall to shop until 2:00. Made it back into Ontario about 6:00. It was a wonderful experience for each of us.

Day Two, Pittsburgh Trip

2009-06-16T16:46:00.000-07:00

It is debateable as to whether the room service was day one or day two. Our morning began very early. The doors opened at the University at 8:30. Starbucks was open in the hotel lobby so they got a lot of our business on Saturday. Again, a very inspirational session. The session was over at 12:00 but by the time the drivers could get out of the parking lot it was at least 1:00 before we left Pittsburgh and due to missing our turn we drove through downtown instead of taking the expressway. Because of the delay we decided to stop for Mexican food about 2:00 and then go on to Grove City for our motel and shopping. We literally shopped 'til we dropped. Some of us dropped sooner than others. A quiet evening was enjoyed by most of us.

Day One, Pittsburgh Trip

2009-06-16T16:33:00.000-07:00

15 ladies left Beamsville at 8:30 Friday morning to attend a Beth Moore event in Pittsburgh. One joined us for the Friday evening event making our total 16. Some left crying children, some left crying husbands, especially those with crying children. After a late lunch at Olive Gardens we drove on to Pittsburgh and checked into the Omni Hotel in downtown Pittsburgh. Four of us decided to be early birds and take a cab to the event while the others would come later. Our first challenge was getting an available cab, then the next challenge was getting into the back of the cab (which was a van). Neither Phyllis nor I were too agile and when we tried to climb across the folded down seat (with the seatbelt dangling) it wasn't a pretty sight. Never mind, we did it. When we arrived at the U of P there was already a line blocks long. As we tried to reach the rear of the line it just kept getting longer and longer. We finally did reach the rear and because our ticket was a wrist band the line moved very quickly. Beth presented some very inspirational talks. Just to see 6000 ladies, all with a common goal, in one place was an inspiration.
It took the drivers a very long time to get their cars so they could pick us up. By the time we got back to the hotel all the food places were closed so we were forced to order room service. By the time it arrived it was almost midnight. But a woman must have nourishment, so we ate. The Omni is a beautiful hotel.

2009-06-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

Early morning walk continued.

Early Morning Walk

2009-06-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

When we take our morning walk we can hear the ripples of the water falling over the rocks. Taking a peek behind the bushes we find these tiny waterfalls. Listening to the birds and the waterfalls is a great way to start the day.

2009-06-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

These were not included in the previous post.

2009-06-02T06:53:00.000-07:00

My flowers in back are especially beautiful this year. Some are still not bloomed out. Guess the cooler spring has been good for them.

BUSY SATURDAY!

2009-05-30T12:08:00.000-07:00

Being retired brings the usual question "So what do you do with your time, now that you are retired". Well, we spend a lot of our time hunting for the pills we drop. Have you ever tried to find a tiny pill that is almost white on a white vinyl floor? And, invariably the stupid pill rolls under the stove. But, you can't leave it there. First, you should be taking the pill for whatever ails you and second, you need to know which pill it is that you did not take, for whatever ails you. Then, when you take the bottom drawer out of the stove to find the pill that you need to take for whatever ails you, you find all kind of debris that has found its way under the stove over the past week or weeks or perhaps even months and you can't just leave it there so you have some cleaning to do at that point.

In addition to hunting for lost pills I began the day with my usual walk, then stretches (which eliminates the need for taking more pills), then making pancakes for breakfast, (which probably contributes to the need for pills) a haircut for Wayford, mowing the lawn (which takes all of 15 minutes, including the time to get the mower out of the garage) helping Wayford peel 5 pounds of potatoes for potato salad for lunch at church tomorrow, (my hand won't allow me to peel potatoes and his hip won't allow him to mow the lawn so we trade places at this point) a visit to Linda's garage sale, and, oh, yes, cleaning the toilets. So, next time you probably won't ask "what do you do with your time, now that you are retired."

2009-05-26T11:42:00.000-07:00

The finished waterfall.

A perfect place to have her babies

2009-05-26T07:11:00.000-07:00

This looks like a perfect place to have my babies. Now all I have to do is pad my nest with grass.

USING CAMERA OR THE PAINT BRUSH?

2009-05-18T10:33:00.000-07:00

I am breaking in my new desktop easel(gift from Neal and Lita ). Now I am really sure Jerry Yarnell is using trick photography to accomplish his paintings because mine just don't turn out like his does. The goal is a waterfall but at this point you would have to have a really good imagination to see a waterfall happening. Why would I want to paint when I have a very good camera? Guess it's just the determination in me that if it can be done, I want to do it. Anyway if it does not turn into a waterfall, I can always discard the canvas and visit Niagara Falls for a live shot.

Stay tuned for further enhancements to this painting. If it winds up in the recycle bin, you will not be able to view it.

EXPERIMENTS WITH NEW CAMERA PLUS PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS

2009-05-09T17:31:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to learn how to use different settings on my camera. I need Trista or Kyle or Lita to help me. I don't understand the RAW images. They load into my Mac but I don't know if I should just delete them or if I should do something with them. Next I am trying to learn new things to do with Photoshop Elements. I have accomplished a few things with it. It sure keeps me awake when we are watching a ball game. I have discovered that I need a bigger CF card. Mine is only 256 MB and with the RAW images it fills up very quickly.

THE SHOULDICE EXPERIENCE

2009-05-01T05:25:00.001-07:00

Since Monday Wayford has been residing at the Shouldice Hospital in Toronto. What an experience! His hernia surgery was done on Tuesday. By the evening he walked down two flights of stairs (and back up) to the dining room where refreshments were served. On Wednesday morning he went for a walk outside,touring some of the 20 acres of beautiful park land. Then at 11:00 participated in group exercises to an Elvis tune. Each day that has been his routine. One half of the clamps were removed on Wednesday and the rest of them on Thursday. The incision looks great (without even a band-aid covering it). On Tuesday morning a group of 10 were escorted to the pre-op room where they were given their meds to prepare them for their surgery. They were then taken, one by one, walking into the operating room. Some of the guys were awake during the entire surgery but what did Wayford do??He slept through the entire thing. They walked him to the operating table but he has no recollection of that. The Dr. told us later that they kept checking to see if he was breathing. By 8:30 that evening he was still sleeping every time he got still. He did walk up and down the hall with us but then back to the room for another nap. Guess that's the Killingsworth in him. Since every patient there is a hernia patient, they have a good time exchanging their stories, and trying to make the other one laugh, OUCH!!
Things look good and we expect that he should be home today.

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME

2009-04-24T17:08:00.000-07:00

Go Jays!! We were invited to join some others to sit in one of the sky boxes at Rogers Center (Sky Dome) last night. What fun!!! Not only did we have padded seats but food throughout the evening. We started with chips and dip, popcorn and pop and then went to all kinds of entrees and finished with fruit. And the Jays won. A Great evening.

The Bar-B-Que Grill Saga

2009-04-18T15:35:00.000-07:00

After 9 years of use it was time to chuck the old grill and get a new one. Have you shopped for grills lately? We decided to bypass the $700 ones. After advice from Linda and Marcia, we decided to pay a bit to have it assembled. And we all know how the "needs some assembly" turns out! Our shopping began on Wednesday. From store to store we went in search of the perfect grill at the lowest price. Found one at the Super Store in St. Catharines that we liked, Friday and Saturday were to be tax free days, but they would not assemble. However, the Super Store in Grimsby would assemble one for us. We shopped there on Friday but they did not have anyone to assemble it then, come back Saturday and perhaps they would have more help and could assemble it. We also went to Rona and they had one that we would have bought but one of the knobs on the burner was missing, plus some other assembly problems, so we thought we should pass that one up. So Saturday, this morning, the Canadian Tire flyer had one advertised that looked like a really good deal. I guess it was, because when we got there they were sold out and were taking no rain checks. They told us that there were a couple in St. Catharines, at the Canadian tire store, but they might be sold out when we got there and they would not hold one for us! OK, back to the Super Store. Would you believe they still could not assemble it for us. Annnd, we couldn't buy it today and get it next week because, you see, it was tax free today but not next week!!!!However, the sales lady said we could have the one that was on display. Alright! It's assembled! Tax Free! So we contact our " Moving Committee". Marcia and Linda come with their little red truck, bungee cords and everything and deliver it to our patio. Now, after a bit of investigation, we discover that the installers have put the grill on backwards. The panel, which should be in front is in the back. We could live with that, except the hose to the tank will not reach!. Annnd, there is a chain with a thingy on the end. Does anybody have a clue as to what it is for. It is looped over a screw and dangles to the floor. Perhaps, some type of ground wire? Anyone out there? What do we do with that thingy. The only thing worse that assembling an item is taking it apart and assembling it all over!

errors with the next blogs

2009-04-08T13:18:00.000-07:00

Sorry, but I have been having difficulty getting my pictures to upload so the next three blogs are photos of my sewing class. The information is on the fourth blog.

2009-04-08T13:15:00.000-07:00

2009-04-08T13:14:00.000-07:00

2009-04-08T13:11:00.000-07:00

Sewing Project completed

2009-04-08T13:00:00.000-07:00

One sewing project completed

With several interruptions due to holidays, sick days, etc. each of the kids have completed their lounging pjs. We are now branching out with each one doing their own thing. A couple are making a dress, one is making a skirt and the young boy is making shorts. A brief introduction to a serger was made this week. We will incorporate it into some of our next projects. There is a great deal of excitement when they arrive each time for our class. Everyone is talking at once. A couple of them brought garments that they have been working on at home. It is so neat to hear a couple of the girls singing as they are cutting their patterns out. A tiring but rewarding two hours. Josiah is all boy! He brought a bow that he had made out of a stick and a headband he had salvaged from a scrap of his Indian costume he is working on at home. Great kids! Great fun! Pictures to follow!

What goes around, comes around!

2009-03-29T05:19:00.000-07:00

Be careful how you react to the older folk in your family or circle of friends! I am finding myself reliving many of the things that I thought was ridiculous and avoidable. My own mother passed away when she was 66 years old so many of the things I experienced with my mother-in-law (who was 89 when she passed away) were not things I saw in my mother. I can remember being annoyed when Grandma told me the same things over and over and I had to come up with a new reaction to her story each time. That's hard. Now Wayford and I are doing the same thing.

Then, I couldn't understand why she had so much problem getting her hands to do what she wanted them to do. Tomorrow I have to have surgery on one of my fingers because I can't get it to do what I want it to do. Even that surgery won't correct the arthritis that I have in my hands.

One year Wayford and I stayed with Grandma a couple of weeks and did a thorough cleaning of her house. We would pick up an item and see all the dust and think "Oh, my, look at all the dust that has collected." Last week, when the sun was shining, revealing all the dust bunnies in my bedroom, I could not believe how I had let all that dust pile up! Even behind the pictures on the wall there were piles of dust.

And then there's the balance thing. As I age I notice that all is well until something throws me a bit off balance, and then whoa!! I better have something to grab onto.

Oh, and Grandma would buy a pair of shoes and they wouldn't fit right. Guess who is now having to have really expensive shoes because of problems with her feet???

And, then there is that little problem called shhhhh "flatulence" ! I've smiled a bit at older folk when that problem just happened!!!! Now I know it is sooooo unavoidable! I should have been more understanding.

Be careful what you think of us older folk because "what goes around, comes around"!