Seeler - get paper plates.  You'll have a few dishes, but depending on your standards you might be more willing to let things sit if there aren't too many and just wash once/day.

lol Thanks Beloved!  I've eaten lunch, so I'm off to try again today.

Paper plates LOL.

Excellent on the bowling.

I took the afternoon off.  Got my hair cut.  Went browsing.  Spent some time just being me.

Hope everyone is doing well.

Thinking of those who await news or have received news about themselves or others they love.

Hoping things are good.

Sounds like a delightful afternoon.  Did hubby notice the hair cut?

We had a nice feed of jackfish that my hubby caught ice-fishing yesterday.  We don't normally eat jackfish, usually just pickerel, but if you catch in cold water (as in winter) it is actually quite good.  We really enjoyed it.  He had his coated in regular soda crackers, and because I can't eat them my were coated in rice crackers.  A nice supper.  I am so full I am being lazy now.

Well, I tried going to a Garage Sale at a United Church near me. Went with a friend. 4-8 Fri and 9-3 Sat. So many people. So much stuff. Found it really hard to breath with people pushing and shoving.I won't do it again. Very discouraging. Although the 60 k. wind ddn't help.

60 k - that's not a tiny wind.

It is blowing and snowing here like crazy .

oh, i am so sorry, beloved.

Here is a box of kleenex...and some chocolate...

Crazyheart, that sucks re the crowd at the garage sale.  sorry that you didn't enjoy it

I can't eat chocolate.  Glad it is a big box of kleenex.

it is the virtual kind.  You can eat it!

At the hairdresser's today, having great conversation with my stylist.  (ok, i was there for a long time.

I stood up having forgotten I had my glasses on my lap. They fell to the ground and I stepped (lightly) on them.  Ouch.  I bent down to pick them up and realize dthe lens had popped out.

I can drive without glasses, but, can't read without them.  I put on my sunglasses (prescription) and headed to the optomestrict, hoping that they were repairable.

Nope!...I had broken the weld.

Good news is they are underwarranty.

Bad news is -- I look like a "nerd" , which of course, I am a bit ....with taped glasses!

Oh dear pinga - maybe you can call upon Tabitha's 12 year old fashion consultants to help you pick out some "hot" new glasses to go with your new 'do'  :-) 

just dropping in quietly for a minute to check on all my friends here - it's been an exhausting week at work - and I think I'm soon off to bed for a good sleep, listening to the rain on the window pane ... tomorrow will be a fresh new day, full of possibilities. 

Carolla, sorry that your week was exhausting.

may you rest well.  

Thinking of those who aren't here.  Pardox3, busymom, myst, birthstone who popped in, motheroffive who was in the other thread, sg, mendalla, northwind who is on vacation, and so many others...the list goes on, hilary, somegalfromcan, lbmuskoka, pilgrim's progress, and well, all of you who have kept the fire stoked for others, offered wisdom, and a gentle spot to visit. thankful for those that I have gotten to know through this thread and others and how our lives  tabitha, seeler, gosh, when do i stop, crazyheart, kimmio, beloved, chemgal, kaythecurler, 

thankful

You could use some spring, just like me CH.  Cold and windy is getting a bit stale around my hometown. 

Pinga - Hope you enjoy your new 'do' and the new(or repaired) glasses. 

I was thinking earlier that maybe we should all project warming thoughts at the weather.  Any one want to join me in some positive thinking?

Hey Pinga I'm sure Lauren and Alyse would do your glasses consult for you! You'll meet them in July!

It was warm enough here that I wore capris and bare legs-both for work and a walk with a friend after work.

Happy weeknd all.

Yesterday turned out to be one of those gorgeous days that help you forget all the bad weather.  Sunshine, blue sky, 10 degrees.  Snow banks sinking, water dripping.  We could use more days like this - a whole lot more. 

So I woke up this morning planning to go to the church for a webinaire with Crossan.  I thought about checking in my spare-room closet for some light beige slacks (I'm tired of black, dark grey, navy, chocolate brown).   Look out - there's overcast and three inches of snow.  It's the big flakes type that will melt easily as the temp climbs to about four this afternoon.  But it will be messy.   I might as well stick with the winter clothes. 

Capris seem a long way off when I still can't see over the snowbanks.

Good morning all!

Capris and sandals seem like a long time off here too.

We received about 4 inches of snow last night - so much for spring here!  But the sun is shining early this morning and the temperature is around -2C - so all going well, the sun should warm things up well enough to melt.

Is it John Dominic Crossan, seeler?  I googled "Crossan" and he was the one who came up.  You will have to let us know how you enjoyed it and what you learned.

I'm not sure about my plans yet for today.  Of course, there is lots to do.  But I'm just not sure where I want to put my energies yet.  Right now wondercafe and a cup of hot water and lemon have priority.

Hope, peace, joy, love . . .

Yesterday it was beautiful here.  I got the bloodwork done, but the person was very concerned as the wrong test that was checked off actually requires an appointment made by my doctor.  She didn't really believe me when I said I didn't need it.  She photocopied my form, highlighted the undone one and let me through.  Don't know why her concern, I've done that at dynalife numerous times when I've actually needed other tests but they had to be done at different times or something.

I think the hospital lab has quite a few people in training.  This person poked at my arm with her finger the most I have ever had, asking me to twist my wrist different ways.  Prodding more than twice always seems to be a big indicator they aren't as experienced.  She put the tourniquette on really tight.  I watched like I was told to, to get used to looking at a needle going in.  I thought I was calm, but felt dizzy after.  I'm not sure if it's from watching or if it was from the tourniquette, I'm actualy a bit bruised on my upper arm today from it.  Hopefully that's it and it isn't something I'm going to have to deal with all the time, as there's still more to the process that takes a while once that needle is in.

I haven't checked anything out today yet, but I'm hoping it's just as nice.  Monday is really supposed to be warm, so I'm guessing it will be.  Chemguy needs to get some more stuff for his fishtank and I'm hoping we can find some stuff for the yard today, we meet up yesterday and went to a liquidation store and bought a few things and thought about a few others.  We're hoping we can find some solar lights at a good price, we thought we saw decent ones yesterday but everything is final sale there so we'll check out other places first.  They also had nice trelaces in 2 sizes, I might be back but need to figure out the yard plans first!

A corner of our family room is full of boxes and stuff from my m-i-l's and our dining room table is also full.   I remember those days and so, I step around them, use different locations.  It is the visible sign of the loss of someone that haunts the space even when the grief is not spoken by my silent guy.

Lazy morning after a long week.  Enjoying some wondercafe threads. Drinking coffee.  Listening to the beatles as son games, husband reads the news.

Time to get out into the world.

Chemgal, hope your arm feels better. There are times that I am able to have blood withrdrawn easier than others, sometimes it is the person sometimes it is me. dont' know why.

Hey Seeler - if that webinar is a live broadcast - I think Birthstone is in the room too!  Lucky Dominic Crossan - able to spend a day with Birthstone!!

Thanks, I never actually have a problem having the blood actually drawn.  My vein is barely visible though, so the inexperienced people always act like it will be a problem.  I don't have a bruise at the puncture site, just a faint one up by my bicep so that should heal quickly.

Little M just turned 15 and is already reading the Driver's Handbook and doing sample G1 tests. He has also turned from a computer geek who can quote you chapter and verse on computer specs into something of a car geek. Can't believe he'll be learning to drive in a year.

On the down side, he's a bit obsessed with League of Legend and that's been impacting on his school work, something that hasn't been helped by his mood (he seems to be a bit prone to SAD).

Mendalla

Mendalla, how is your Dad?

Holding steady. Has trouble communicating but still fairly alert and aware, just confused at times. We're getting his eligibility for LTC established so we can get him on to the necessary waiting lists but may not need it for a while yet. He is in a community program twice a week that gets him out of the apartment and gives his wife (not my mother, but a second marriage after her death) a break. Looked at having a respite care worker come in to the home, but that did not go well.

Mendalla

Mendalla, your story sounds similar to those of many who are dealing with aging parents, especially dementia or alzheimers. 

But it is totally unique to you, and your relationship with your dad, and his health and life.  And for all of you it is a walk into the unknown.  I never experienced that with my parents as both died from other diseases, but I feel for you because of what I have seen friends and other families go through.  I hope you have a strong support system.  Caring thoughts are with you and your family in the midst of these health issues with your dad.

I think of you, Birthstone and Mendalla, as your sons approach the "driving years".  My son is now 35, and I can still picture him walking into the yard and house with the car keys in his hand, beaming that he had passed.  Of course I knew he did, because I left him uptown with the car and tester and would have had to go back and get him if he hadn't passed.

Granddaughter has been driving for six months or so now.  It's a great help to her parents - getting herself to and from dance classes, picking up her brother from his after-school program, driving herself to babysitting jobs or her brother to play dates. 

The program waslive broadcast with churches from across Canada tuned in - this afternoon during a Q&A there was a question from a church in BC.   I wish I had known Birthstone was there but I doubt if I could have spotted her when the camera swept the audience. 

It was very interesting.  I hadn't seen Crossan live for some time, and had forgotten how amusing he can be - something that doesn't come across well in his books, although I love them. 

He certainly gave us lots to think about.   I think I'll go over to R&F and start a thread on Peace.  

Good Sunday Morning Everyone!

Greetings of the day . . . and a little tea, coffee, and munchies on the table.  Fire is burning . . . prayer shawls awaiting . . . quiet in the room this morning.

Hope, Peace, Joy, Love . . .

I am happy to see that Birthstone's congregation became aware that they are  an affirming congregation today.  Way to go Birthstone.  I use that funny language as based on their vote of 91% they likely have been affirming for a while.  

Congratulations to Birthstone's congregation. 

My congregation is getting nicely involved in the process.  Our Affirming Diversity group had a meeting after church and planned our next step.   Many people already consider us to be Affirming in that for many years now we have celebrated same-sex marriages, and had people from the GLBT community serving on committees, Session, etc.  And celebrate a Rainbow brunch.  We are now eager to work through the process and be recognized as Affirming. 

We are putting emphasis on hospitality to all people regardless of economic situation, gender identity, race, background, intellectual ability, age, physical handicaps.  Already we have heard stories - a child with autism was excluded from Sunday School with his age group.  No provision was made for a vision impaired person attending a board meeting.  No support in place for the people suffering through the break-up of a Gay relationship.  How can we be more aware and sensitive?  How can we become more inclusive?   

Seeler, sounds good.  It is the mechanics of how we live out that is awesome in that. 

How do we lead with "yes" rather than "no".  

In the case of the autistic child; how do we find a find way to help them participate, includng engaging the person asking in the solution finding.

Congratulations to Birthstone and congregation!

Good point pinga - a bit like a long time common-law couple finally getting married - making the public declaration of what has already been in place. 

Have spent too much time on the site today.

Had a great evening last night, dinner out and then the movie "captain America"  we enjoyed it a lot.  spent time with the family today as well , which was good.

The sun is setting in the sky, the temperature is cooling.  The body and mind is getting weary and winding down for the night.

Good night everyone - may your sleep be peaceful and restful and rejuventaing.

See you in the morning .

Hi!!  Thanks Pinga!  Yes, and we voted for it with 91%!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Amazing to be able to say that, and move on with no question left. 

Seeler, I shared a story of yours about your rainbow lunch with our crew, and that got them thinkin beyond education and winning people over :)

Tomorrow is G1 day!  Birthdays for both my guys, and I can't wait to take teen B to the driving place.  He has had a great weekend,, and that makes me SING!  Thank for all your stories about your teen drivers - I am nervous for him being out on city streets but he is so capable, that I have sme hope. 

Crossan!!! Yes! He was fantastic, and I got my picture taken with him   We had a whole group of 7 there from  our church, including other fans and a newbie who loved it too.  :D  I wondered who all was online - I should have waved shamelessly.  Gretta Vosper spoke as well, and apart from being verbally assaulted by a rude participant, she was compelling, warm and wonderful.  Not sure I'm where she is, but she's ok with that. 

A very full few days, but very happy!!!!

Happy is good, Birthstone .

I was sorry that the Vosper part was not online.  I've met her in person - I looked forward to seeing her again.   It was amazing how Chris Levan and Crossan both seemed to be present among us in our church parlor.  Sometimes I felt like waving, or joining the Toronto group in applause at the end of each lecture.  We did join in the laughter. 

Lucky Birthstone to be there.

Busy day again today.   Laundry this morning, interspersed with computer time.  Bowling this afternoon.  Faith Development meeting early evening - then watching the Quebec election results.   And of course meals (I think I'll do a beef roast) and doing dishes by hand.

Good morning seeler - good morning all!

Off to the start of a good day!

But, always time for a cup of tea . . .

Perhaps dishes is a task you could asign to Mr. Seeler for the time being .

Off to walk and then share a real cup of tea with my hubby - car goes to garage early morning so don't have too much time to doddle.

Hope, peace, joy, love . .  .

Good morning as well, to all.

I am envious of your listening to crossan yesterday seeler. Wish that I had noticed it or realized the program was on. I know that I could have fit it in. I need to pay more attention

I had a snoring night last night when I have not had for a while. Odds are related to ear stuff but doesn't make it easier for family. I bailed to the couch!

Today is a busy day but the sun is shining and spring is in the air.

Pinga - I'm not sure how a webinaire works.  I think maybe churches had to be registered in advance.  But I'm sure that with your technical knowledge you could have managed it if you had known about it in time.

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1.0-9/1014475_54933573...

These are my two younges grandchildren . Please take a look.

Just doing a bit of a test post here.

Cute kids CH!

Two of the cutest going, Crazyheart . . . you are one lucky Grandma.

"The best laid plans of mice and men oft go astray".

Had one of those days :(

Up early and was ready to start my day when I got an early morning call . . . My sis had fallen (very icy here!!!!!)  on her way into work and I got a phone call from emergency.  X-ray showed broken wrist that had to be put back in place, and broken bones set.  We had to wait for a surgeon and anethetist for anethestic, and so didn't get home til late afternoon.  She is doing well, and will stay here til pain is under control and she can manage okay at home.

So, all plans went out the window . . . but that is life - and all will be well.  Could have been worse (could have been a hip).

It is treacherous here - hope spring comes soon.

Hope everyone else had a good day and all is well in your world.

I feel drained . . . and I want my mommy . . . she's no longer here . . . anybody want to be my surrogate mommy?

Beloved, I will be your surrogate mommy.

Sit down in that comfy couch by the fire.

Your favourite music is on the stereo, and soon your favourite food will be in front of you.

Here is a comforter and pillows.

I am sure someone else will soon be in to keep you company and play you a game of scrabble or just visit.

(((((Thank you, Pinga)))))

I feel better already.

Beloved, is your sister older or younger?  I have one of each.