Happy Halloween!!!!!!

Monday, October 31, 2011

Well it's that time again.  I'll take a break from the serious stuff and just chill....... the wine is setting in and I'm quite mellow at the moment.  Hubby went home sick today with a head cold (he never gets sick).  So I'll man the front door and hand out the treats so he can rest.  We usually share in the task but I'm giving him the night off.  I'm such a good wife.

Thought this was a cool pic.

Enjoy and don't eat too much junk!

OLN

Sunday, October 30, 2011

So I was watching OLN this morning and this "survival" guy was on a trip in the Colorado Rockies.  I don't watch a lot of these programs but this one in particular reminded me of when I was in Girl Guides.

Why do you ask?  Well I went to survival camps with the girl guides both in the summer and winter.  We learned a lot about surviving in the outdoors and it certainly made you appreciate clean sheets, pillows and a warm bed among other things we often take for granted.  I try not to take anything for granted.

I appreciate every little thing that comes my way.  Even the rain, cold wind, whatever...at least we get to "feel" and experience life, both good and bad.  We need to suck it up because we could lose it at any time.

Life is precious.............

I was away at a girl guide summer survival camp somewhere in the boonies up north when I contracted encephalitis.  The group went out hiking and I was the only one to stay back at camp.  I don't remember why exactly, all I remember is that it was hot and I got eaten alive by mosquitos.  When camp was over and my aunt and uncle came to pick me up, they were horrified at the amount of bites I had all over my body, even on my eyelids.  When they got me home I got sick very soon after.  Not sure how soon after because I was eleven ( I figured out my age because of the music I remember listening to at that time)and that was a long time ago.  All I did was cry, experience extuciating headaches and sleep.  I also contracted the mumps so the doctor was called (they made home visits back then).  After he saw me and left, my aunt came in the room and she was crying.  OMG I thought I was dying.  She told me that I had to go to the hospital for tests.  I went to Sick Kids and had a spinal tap.  I'm sure they heard my screams for miles.  The most pain I've ever experienced. the fluid from my spine told them I had encephalitis and there was no cure.  I was admitted and spent a while there in isolation (because of the mumps) and reading my Nancy Drew when I wasn't sleeping.  Doctors came around with clipboards peering through the window of my room and making notes.  My bed was beside a window and I remember watching construction crews working on the hospital.  Anyway, needless to say they eventually sent me home and told my aunt and uncle that they would have to wake me every couple of hours so I wouldn't lapse into a coma.  I remember them walking me around the house trying to wake me up.  Well obviously I survived.  I eventually "came back" but it took a while before I could stay awake in class.

My point is there are all types of  "survival".  Everyone has a story and never take anything for granted.

Bye for now........

Tea & Turtles

Friday, October 28, 2011


Yes, I'm having tea & turtles.  Wonderful combo!  I'm so excited to finally have some pictures I can add to my blogs.  So hopefully I will add some interest to my redoric.............


Nothing to really whine about today although I did get upset about one thing.  A co-worker wearing a Michael Vick jersey.  Now I|'m not trying to be Andy Rooney from "Sixty Minutes" or anything but why would anyone in their right mind wear a Michael Vick jersey?  Remember Michael Vick and the raid and arrest at his house for animal abuse and dog-fighting?  When I saw the condition these dogs were in I cried.  The dogs he had were in such bad shape that many of them had to be put down.  These dogs had to fight to the death (for the entertainment of Vick and his associates)and if they didn't they were beaten.


Yet people wear his jersey because he's a good football player but he has no heart.  Food for thought....


Anyway, let's not dwell on idiots.  On a lighter note here's a pic you might like:

The kid's B'day at Benihana's 2010

Dinner Date

Thursday, October 27, 2011

So we're meeting the kid for dinner.  Can't wait to see her.  When you're used to seeing someone every day and you don't anymore, you really look forward to the time you do have with them.  Never take anyone for granted.

The day went by quickly and I have all these ideas for redesigning my blog.  Have to step it up a notch. I don't know if it's Ania's creativity rubbing off on me or what.  I like "Ania" better than "Anna".  So from here on I'll refer to her as Ania.

Getting much more comfortable with the whole concept.  Might set up a web page as well.  Still have a lot to learn but that's ok.  I'm not in a rush..............

I also have to look at online real estate courses.  Something I'm interested in as a supplement income..  But then again I'm interested in a lot of things.  Not enough time to pursue everything......

Still bugging hubby to download files to me that I can post on my blog.

I miss Rome!

Ciao

I'm writing this now....

Wednesday, October 26, 2011
I'm writing this now while it is still fresh in my mind.  My post today is on the serious side but it's something I feel strongly about it and want to share my thoughts on the matter.

This morning I was watching a show that covered the deaths of two young girls who were beaten to death by their parents in the name of discipline.  They were followers of a man with the last name of "Pearl" who has written a book on disciplining children.  He believes in the old adage "spare the rod, spoil the child".  He goes on in great length throughout the book, so-called guiding parents in the rearing of children using corporal punishment when necessary.  Oh and he believes it's necessary but you know what?  I don't.

Fortunately, I was raised my aunt and uncle who didn't believe in spanking or physical punishment of any kind.  Thank God!  When I was in public school the "strap" was still allowed and when threatened by it, my aunt and uncle were up at the school threatening a lawsuit if one hand (or anything else) was laid on me because they felt it was wrong and the school did not have the right.

I didn't turn out so bad.  I was not spoiled and I did get punished but in other ways that were very effective.  For instance, "grounding".  To me that was torture because back then we didn't have all the "toys" that kids now have in their rooms.  At that time I had only books.  I couldn't watch television and had to miss all my favorite shows.  I still remember banging on the bedroom door crying and screaming to be able to come and out and watch T.V.  My aunt and uncle were consistent.  The louder I protested, the louder the television got.  It worked because I couldn't stand to miss my shows.

Also, my uncle had a way of looking at me that instilled fear.  Of what, I'm not quite sure but it made me behave.

If we applaude women for getting out of abusive relationships (been there,done that) then why do we allow parents to abuse their children (when they can't leave and don't have a choice).  It makes no sense to me.

Anyway, I just had to get that out there.

I'm Finally In!!!!

Monday, October 24, 2011

I'm finally in.  It took me forever to get into my own blog!!!!  I used to be able to get into it from my account so easily.  Can't do it now that I "upgraded" and not happy that I have to type the whole http:// crap.....(well u get the picture).

Anyway, now that I got that off my chest.  How was everyone's day?  I wonder if the kid is a little homesick.  If she is I'm sure it's momentary.  She has a great place and lots of friends so I know she'll be fine. God, I used to get homesick just walking up the street...hehe.  Hopefully I've matured since then...

The day went quickly and that's a blessing because this morning I felt kind of crappy but thankfully it passed as the day went on.  I have to look out Halloween decorations for work.  Some people don't like them and are creeped out by them.  They don't celebrate Halloween or let their kids which I find weird.  I feel sorry for them.  I can't imagine growing up without celebrating Halloween.  I remember every costume I ever wore and the anticipation of trick or treating with the other kids on the street.  I'd gobble down dinner and as soon as soon as I was done, beg to get out there before all the candy was gone.  I always had to wait until it got dark which sucked especially when there was always kids out there early beating me to the punch.  I loved taking my own kids out when they were small.  It always brought back fond memories.

Ahhh...memories......

Bye for now!

I Finally Have time

Sunday, Ocrober 23, 2011

Finally I have some time to sit and post.  Well I'm officially beat, but in a good way.  We spent the afternoon at the kid's new place after some shopping earlier buying stuff for her new place.  I helped her get stuff organized and get her to feel more settled in.  Some more purchases are necessry though to complete the process and make it a real home.  I have to admit I love being a part of it all. 

It was nice, just us and no one else spending time with her.  Her place is beautiful and I love the new furniture.  I know she's going to be happy there and I have a good feeling about it all.  So we went out to eat after and I couldn't help feeling protective of her and remembering when I first moved out on my own and how scared I was.  Hopefully it won't be the same for her.  I told her "remember, we're just a phone call away".  I want her to know that we're here for her no matter what.  I never want her to feel she's alone.  It's the worst feeling in the world.......

Until later.....

2 Days Late

Saturday, October 22, 2011

I know, I know, I'm two days late with my post.  What can I say but Ive just been busy.  I hate missing a day but I'll make up for it now.

The kid's big move was today.  My nephew who was going to provide a truck and help with the move had to go to a jobsite in Kingston so we were one man down.  Mike, my firstborn, thank goodness did not let us down.  He showed up with a van and more stuff he was giving the kid for her new place.  Also we rented a truck.  I got up early (I always do anyway) and cleared the front hallway for the move and brought stuff up from the basement for the guys to load on to the truck.  The kid had to meet the "Brick" guys at the condo so they could take up the new furniture she bought.  All this while she was in pain with her back...............

So I'll be over at the kid's place tonight to toast her new found freedom.  I'm very proud of her.  Everything she's accomplished she has done on her own.  She has a strong sense of independence while remaining fiercely loyal to those who love her.

I can't help but reflect on the days when she wore her "ET" slippers and had the forever bottle hanging from her mouth so she could be "hands-free" to play or do other things.  It's hard to describe the love a parent has for a child.  Many books have been written about it I'm sure but I can only see it from my own perspective.  As I've said it before I adore her and always will.  When I first saw those big blue eyes, she had me.

Until later..........

 

I'm So Excited!

Wednesday, Oct. 19/11

I finally have a follower on my blog!!!!!!  Thanks Lucy (you know who you are).Well as I get more experienced my blog will get more colorful and hopefully more interesting.  I want to go on Skype so that will be another project.  I'll keep you all informed of how I do. 

We were to go to the kid's apt. today to take over some more stuff and do a few things but she was sick so that was a no go.  Just Hubby and I could have gone but nah we'll go tomorrow.  The kid hired a cleaning lady to clean the apt. on Friday.  Smart girl.  I wished I had done that whenever I moved into a new place.  Obviously she inherited her brains from me......not!

Saturday will be nuts.  Caos maximus!!!  It will be good to see my nephew though who I haven't seen in a while.  After the kid has all her stuff out then the work begins.  Her room will have to be cleaned and reorganized as well as the basement where a lot of her stuff is stashed. 

Would like to get the entire house organized before Christmas...............

Okay time for a smoke break.

Happy Wednesday everyone.........

Hi to everyone!

So tired.......

Monday, October 17, 2011

So tired right now.  Been on my laptop for awhile now and still haven't done everything I wanted.  Still learning and playing around with this thing.  It's my new toy.  Practise makes perfect.  Went to Whole Foods and bought some more of their delicious macaroons.  This time chocolate.  I do believe chocolate is the cure for anything that ails you............... I also love Havarti cheese and the woman behind the counter always gives me a free slice to try.  It's always after work so I wolf it down.  I was so disappointed when I got home and the wine cellar was empty (lol).  thank god for the kid picking some up on her way home.  The day was saved.

Chuck took this pic with Carolyn's camera.

Okay well time for a smoke, some juice, then zzzzzzzzzzzz

Bye for now!

Finally Friday!!!!

Friday, October14, 2011

Thank god it's Friday.  I only had to work a 1/2 day which was cool because I didn't feel that great this morning.  I came home and slept...........ahhhhhhh

I've been playing around on the laptop most of the afternoon and into this evening.  Learning little by little.

Moving day for the kid is next Saturday and it's going to be a busy day.  We're starting early and have enlisted the help of my son and nephew.  Hope everything goes smoothly.  Once we have her settled into her new digs and I see her bedroom empty I know it's going to be hard.  We've never been separated in 27 years.  I expect a teary few days.  I know in my heart of hearts it will be good for her and me and she'll always be my "baby". I adore her......

Not too much happening this weekend though.  It should be pretty relaxing.  Shopping and cleaning tomorrow and seeing mom on Sunday (so I've got some baking to do).

By the way, I found out by chance that "Skittles" are now gluten-free.  Another item to add to my candy list.

Until later

Ciao

Sorry About Yesterday

Thursday, Oct. 13/11

Sorry about yesterday, got busy reframing our wedding photo after running around Wal-mart.

Not a bad day, not a great day.  Started with no pain which was refreshing.  I get those once in a while.  My tooth is sore and I know I have to get it filled but I'm procrastinating.............maybe because it HURTS!!!

Anyway, I have to suck it up and book an appt.

So hubby installed Word for me thank god!  The book is coming................

Another toy I can play with...hehe

No pics today but my buddy Carolyn took some awesome pics today so they will be forthcoming.

Until later.....

So tired......

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Well the day went pretty good except I kept thinking it was Monday!

Tomorrow my hours at work will change to an earlier shift.  I mean I'm up early anyway but ready early?  That's a different story.  It's not that I have to start the early shift  tomorrow but I figure when the kid moves I don't have a choice.  I might as well get used to it now.  Always the optimist I will be off earlier.  That's a plus.

Fighting to stay awake because "Family Jewels" premieres tonight and it's a must see on my list.  Gene and Shannon finally got married on Sat. Oct. 1st.  It's about time.  God I love that show.  Their "wedding show" is on Oct. 18th.  Mark it on your calendars people!

Anyway until later.............

My Monday Off

Monday, October 10, 2011

It's 11 am and I'm surfing the web to look for deals.  Anna told me about all these sites that have coupons (that stupid show "Extreme Couponing" has me hooked on finding deals and although we can't do everything they can do in the States I'm going to look for Canadian alternatives.

Wish me luck!!!

Now as promised here is my famous butter tart recipe:

2 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup of dark Sultana raisins
3/4 cup of pancake syrup or maple syrup
2 softened tablespoons of butter

1.  Mix all of the above ingredients with a spoon (don't use a mixer).

2.  Thaw 24 tart shells for 10 minutes (I use only Tenderflake tart shells) at room temp.

3.  Fill the tart shells 3/4 full with the mixture.

4.  Place on cookie sheet.

5.  Put in oven at 400 degrees far. for 10 mins.

6.  Lower the heat to 325 degrees far. for another 10 mins.  Edges will brown.

7.  Cool and serve.

**Unfortunately these are not gluten-free because of the tart shells but you can substitute.  I haven't tried this yet but if I find gluten-free tart shells I'll try it so I can enjoy them too.

ENJOY!!!!! More to come.

What a Day

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Love being off and playing with my laptop.  Well I'm now current with Facebook and have set up some of my files, programs, etc.

I didn't post yesterday because it was our "dinner" day.  We had a roast instead of turkey (we're such rebels) and it was delicious.  Just my sister-in-law and her husband  camewho were also celebrating their wedding anniversary (mom was a lttle under the weather) and my son and his girlfriend weren't up to it (remember she's due in November).  It was quiet and cozy and very enjoyable.

So today the kid and I went shopping for more "stuff" for her new place.  I also bought some shoes I couldn't resist.  We combed a couple of second hand stores where I kept looking for that "trinket\' that was worth a fortune.  Didn't happen........

So now I'm updating my blog and craving a hot cup of tea..............Ciao

Thursday, October 6, 2011
 Well the day didn't start well at all.  This bug I have is affecting my whole body and I really just want to crawl into bed and put the covers over my head.  Instead I'm sucking it up at least for now.  Thank g*d I'm off tomorrow...........I think the bug is making the Celiac act up.  Maybe, I don't know.

I tried to enter this post this morning before I left the house but the internet was too slow and I gave up.

I may continue this post when I get home and then again I may not.  We'll see how my stamina holds up.

Until later........

Wednesday, October 5, 2011
 Well I'm writing this reasonably early because I'm fading fast.  My head cold is back along with body ache, stomach pain, etc.  Basically, I feel like crap but sucking it up and wanted to update my blog.

This may not seem to be a big deal for some of you but I finally have my very own laptop!  No longer have to share with the kid.  Besides when she moves, she'll be taking it so my own laptop was much needed.  So we went out last night and bought one.  Love it.  Now I can finally work on that book I've been wanting to write.

I can't wait to get on it and hopefully I won't crash right away when I get home today.  There's so much I need to add on my desktop not to mention update my posts.

I'm dreadfully behind on Facebook as well.  Need to figure who all these people are from Italy that keep sending me e-mails in Italian.  I'm not Italian!!!! although hubby is.

Until later...............

Tuesday, October 4, 2011
 Day is almost done.  It's been a good day, gone fast.  Two more days and I'm off for 4!  YEAH!!!!

Still haven't copied last week's posts to my blog but will try to update tonight.

There are not enough hours in the day to accomplish everything I want to.  Also, my energy level gets in the way.  In the future I'd like to take a course in photography and maybe art as well and of course, writing. The hubby is still waiting for me to write my "book".  It will happen.  Not sure when but hopefully while I can still read and write......hehe.

Stay tuned.........

Monday, October 3, 2011
 I know, I know.  I'm behind in my posts.  Usually on Saturday mornings I update my blog but unfortunately on Saturday I was down for the count.

There is some kind of bug in the air and I was fighting it all last week but it caught up with me on Saturday.  My energy level was nil................I did manage to get the shower gifts wrapped and the kid stood in for me at the shower (which by the way was far, far, away) I mean I consider Brampton up north.

Anyway, last night was fun.  I let my dog out only to get sprayed by a skunk.  She was so embarrassed and we were all suffocating from the smell.  Hubby had to wrestle her into the tub for a shampoo and shower and I had to wash everything she came into contact with.  This happened while entertaining my in-laws who were spending the night after a 10 hour plane trip from Rome.

Oh fun wow!

I Didn't Get A Chance

Friday, September 30, 2011
 I didn't get a chance to post yesterday and have some catching up to do.

Well the tarts at work were a hit.  So easy to make.  Will post the recipe but it's not gluten-free.  You could probably make with the glten-free flour but I haven't tried that yet.  I buy the frozen ready-made tart shells (Tenderflake).  My sister's tried and true recipe.

I'll try to remember to add the recipe to my next post.

This weekend is busy.  Tonight I have to wrap gifts for the baby shower.  Tomorrow is the shower and then Sunday me, hubby and the kid are heading over to the kid's new condo to see if she wants to paint or anything before she moves in.  My father-in-law and his girlfriend arrive from Italy Sunday night so we'll probably be up late hearing all about their trip.

Stay tuned for pics from the shower.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011
 Okay I didn't write my post early but here goes:

So tonite we're picking up the playpen for the baby shower on Saturday. Hubby wants to look at a few places to compare prices (personally I think he just loves dragging me all over the place knowing full well I'd rather be home, sipping wine and having a smoke).

At least we'll have gotten it done so I'll look at it in a "positive" light.  Eventually I'll make it home......hehe

Tomorrow I'm making butter tarts for the team and our "potluck" on Friday.  Oh do I ever miss those..........mmmmmmmmmmmmm

Hopefully someone will bring something for the potluck that I can eat and not just end up having a "strawberry".  I have learned long ago to bring "back-up" food just in case and so I don't starve.  We shall see.

Arrivederci

Again I'm Writing This

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Again I'm writing this while I have all my facilties (early in the day)...hehe

Although the day didn't start that great as I was definitely a "Bernie" this morning.  Maybe it's the weather, who knows?  Starting to wake up a bit now though.  After lunch should prove better.

So I'm trying to find a gluten-free recipe for shortbread.  Being Irish and Scottish, my love of shortbread comes naturally..............I miss it so.  Grant it I've got gluten-free cookbooks and recipes galore but that recipe eludes me.  Anyone who has one please send it in your comments.  It would be greatly appreciated.  Of course I'll google it like I do everything else and if successful will post it on my blog.

I really need to get my act together and start trying all these recipes I have collected in the last few years.  Also, I need to get some gluten-free flour and attempt my old tried and true recipes that call for regular wheat flour.  I'll let you know how I do.

I should also let you know that I mentioned "Whole Foods" yesterday in my blog and their macaroons.  What  I neglected to tell you was that on the label it does say "may" contain traces of wheat so buyer beware..............

I will be hooking up to other sites to keep up-to-date with gluten-free recipes, restaurants and food items at your local grocery stores, so please stay tuned..................

Bye for now

I'm Posting Early

Monday, September 26, 2011

I'm posting early while I still have my wits about me because by the end of the day when I usually post my brain is basically shut down for the day.

Had a great weekend.  The kid bought me a "vintage" cigarette case.  Absolutely beautiful and the vendor said it's either from the 30's or 40's.  No matter, I love vintage everything............... especially the 40's.

Did some shopping and hoping "hubby" puts up the spice rack for me today.

Oh and just an "FYI".  Whole Foods has delicious gluten-free macaroons (I love coconut).

Bye for now