This and that and other things

First, the weather has turn cool, well actually quite cold and wet, with a lot of it being the misty/foggy type of rain, it has been that way for a couple and days and we can expect more of the same at least until Saturday when we will see that fire ball in the sky.  The grass is liking the moisture and even without the sun, lilacs are blooming nicely.  Just their time to open up I suppose.

Tues, May 13th I went to the theatre and saw a musical performance,  "Rocking in the 50's".  It was a great show and brought back a lot of songs I have not heard for a long time and also memories of "Sock Hops" at school, the movies we watched and the singers on the radio.   The friend I went with is actually my ex.  I have decided life is much too short, to stay upset with things in the past so now we go out on a date once in awhile.

Wednesday and Thursday I did some sewing to get a couple of quilt tops put together.

Friday May 16th, two quilt guild members came over and we started working on some applique.  All of us had not done any before, so it was a learning/practice morning.   After working on our stitches, we stopped for a sweet treat which one of the "girls" brought, a delicious rhubarb and blueberry crumble, which was something I had never had before.  Will certainly try that in my own kitchen.   We plan on meeting again in a couple of weeks to see how our applique is looking.   Attended the "Happy Hour" in the lounge upstairs. in the evening.

Saturday, May 17th grocery shopping, only needing, milk, bread and eggs, so it did not take long.  

Sunday, May 18th I visited my sister as her birthday was in a couple of days.  Took her some flowers and we had a nice chat over coffee and cake.   Our parents are in the local cemetery where she lives, so I picked up the flower arrangement as it was looking a bit tired, brought it home with me and I will make a new saddle to fit over their head stone. 

Monday, May19 was Victoria Day here in Canada, so a stat holiday for almost everyone.  I did not do anything as that day and Tuesday May 20th, I was a bit under the weather,  and could not wander far from home.

Wednesday, May 21st.  much better so went to a Jazz concert with the ex, and enjoyed it very much.

That brings us to today, May 22nd.  A quilt guild member is bringing me some batting so I can finish quilting two quilts and this afternoon I am going to visit a friend.

Then we will have to see what tomorrow brings.

Have a great day

Cheers.

Not so hectic

Monday, the start of a new week which is not going to be so busy as the last one.

The weekend was lovely, nice and sunny with temps high enough so that no coats were needed just a cardigan sweater for the evening chill.  We have the same kind of day forecast for today.

Last Friday was one of my great granddaughters 6th birthday, so I popped over to give her a gift.  She had had a party the previous weekend so I am she had had an abundant pile of gifts at that time.  Children seem to get so many things given to them these days I was not sure what was going to go in my gift bag for her.   I know she love reading and colouring/drawing, so I decided to go to the bookshop.  

The staff helped by telling me the "in" books that children are reading these days, so picked up one they had suggested and the colouring books were on sale, so purchased one that I liked.  Unfortunately, when my GGD opened the gift she already had the book, however, it can be exchanged.   Had a nice visit too with Mum and Dad.

Sunday, Mother's Day,  my two daughters and hubbies took me out for dinner in the evening.  Had a nice meal, not fancy but very good indeed, the restaurant was giving Mother's a single rose.  Daughter also gave me a container of flowers for my balcony, which will bloom until frost in the Autumn.    

Tomorrow I will be going to a matinee at a local theatre, and Friday two friends will be dropping in for a morning sewing session.  That is all I have planned for this week.  

However, there is always the housework to be done, not that there is much of that being needed.  I also think it is now time for me to get the chairs out onto the balcony, that will be done today.  Should go for a walk to enjoy the sunshine, past days have not been nice enough to do that.  That is my excuse, I know I have been quite lazy these past couple of weeks for doing that.  

My newest great grand baby is doing well, she had a difficult birth and suffered some issues with her arms.  She is gaining weight, so Mum and Dad are pleased with that.

My second youngest GD and her boyfriend had a lovely trip to Vancouver for a few days, to see a friend and some of the sights.  Now back to the labs and studying for her PhD, which should be a bit easier now she does not have to teach.  

My youngest GD has received her Wings at a presentation gala a couple of weeks ago.  She will be in an aircraft simulator now until August at which time she needs to decided where and what she will do with her flying.

 Time to go to my regular yoga class.

Have a great day

Cheers.

Time.. where does it go

The sixth day of May already, and we have no sunshine again.  I find these grey skies make me have very little energy.  but, having said that I am busy.

On Saturday, I went  with a friend to a matinee live theatre production of Pride and Prejudice,  it was a very good show and  we both enjoyed it.  After taking her home, I headed to my DD1 as she was having a combined birthday party for three of her grandchildren who all have a birthday in the span of ten days.  I might add they are all in the same family.   It was a long day.

Sunday, my son and DIL visited in the afternoon, and I also received a Mother's Day gift from them.   We had a nice visit and they took with them gifts for there daughter who had her baby in April.  I was suppose to go to the shower for her, however, the weather did not co-operate so the gifts were still waiting to be delivered.  Both my son and granddaughter live more than a 2 1/2 hours drive from me and I do not like driving on the very busy highway that I would have to use to get to their homes, so that is why the gifts were still at my house. 

Yesterday, Monday I had an appointment with the dentist, just for a cleaning and do not have to go back until November for another cleaning.  Then went shopping as a store which is unfortunately closing after being a Canadian icon for years.  Picked up a couple of t-shirts.  Then went to a British store and picked up a sausage roll and a pastry for my dinner.   

Today, Tuesday, I need to wash my car and in the afternoon having a visit from a neighbour.

Wednesday, is my quilting guild meeting in the afternoon.

Thursday, going to be a visitor at another quilting meeting and show.

Friday, I am sure it will be grocery shopping and laundry day.  

Saturday, at the present time has nothing on the schedule, but that could change.

Sunday, is Mother's Day, and I will be going out for dinner, with one of my daughters.

The magnolia and fruit trees are all full bloom, and so are the dandelions, so signs of Spring are all around even if the skies are grey.   If the forecast is correct, we will be having spring like weather towards the end of the week.  

Have a great day

Cheers.

Summer, where is Spring

Yesterday was an absolutely beautiful day,  that is the only way to describe all the day light hours with wall to wall sunshine.

The temp went up to 26*C not a record for the day but I am sure it was close to breaking it.  Windows open, balcony doors open to let in some fresh air.    

Over the Winter snow and rain had mudded up my balcony doors so badly I could hardly see out there, well maybe not quite that bad but, really dirty.   So, I cleaned them and the screen door as well, now I can see the coming and going for everything.

There was a flock of ten or more buzzards circling around looking for something to eat,  flies and bugs had all woken up and enjoying the time to do what flies and bugs do.  Even saw a couple of small butterflies.

I swear  you can almost see the leaf buds opening up, making the trees look green instead of a grey/brown colour.  

Today, Friday it is still warm, no need for a jacket today when I go out for a grocery shop, however, the brolly might be a handy thing to tote along with me as all that sunshine we had yesterday is now gone and grey clouds are all I see.

Must get ready for my Yoga class,  do the grocery shop, lunch, prepare something for the pot luck dinner tonight, then might sit down and do small cross stitch piece I am working on.

Have a great day

Cheers

Easter

A four day week was a busy one catching up on a couple of appointments, laundry for my vacation clothes,  a service for my car and a visit to the grocery store.   Suitcases now pack away in my locker until next vacation.

Easter weekend.

The visit from my son and DIL was postponed as family members were not well. 

DD2 and husband went to Peterborough picked up their DD2 and then on to Ottawa to DD1.   The two daughters and a boyfriend prepared Easter dinner on Friday.  Everyone returned to their homes late Saturday.

I went to DD1 for dinner on Sunday,  she decided it was time for a BBQ so chicken was on the menu.  It was a busy time with five of my great grands hunting for Easter eggs in the garden,  

Yesterday, I went and did my yoga class in the morning and then chat, coffee and craft in the afternoon.  

My new great granddaughter had a little set back a few days ago and is now doing well.

All of the spring flowers are now blooming, waking up from a very cold and snowy Winter.  It always amazes me, how these plants survive, freeze solid and come back looking so beautiful.  The grass is green and the leaf buds on the trees are swelling getting ready to burst open when it's their time.

Sunny day, but still cool at 9*C as I write at 9:30 a.m.

Have a great day,

Cheers.

Home safe and sound

My two daughters and I returned home on April 12 from a lovely vacation in the Dominican Republic.  

It was a first trip for my youngest daughter "E" and myself to this destination, my eldest daughter "B" had been there on a previous vacation with her husband.  

Everything  on the resort we went to was great, clean, friendly staff,  a large verity of food and of course drinks.  Evening entertainment for young and old, swimming pools also for the smaller guests and adult guests.

We decided to go on two tours off of the resort.  The first one started with a safari type vehicle up Mount Isabel de Torres.  At the top was the statue of Christ the Redeemer,  a botanical  garden and views as far as the eyes to see. 

Then the trip down, it was quite a ride.  Back down at sea level, we went to an Amber Museum, Rum factory, Chocolate factory, cigar making demonstration.   Walked along Umbrella Street where the colourful umbrellas and bougainvillea blooms above, protected us from the sun. 

Then on to Pink Alley, where everything was painted a vibrant pink.

Now, time for lunch we had a choice of chicken or fish,  E and B had the chicken along with the five other people on the tour, I decided to have the fish and we were all very satisfied with our choices.  Then on to the Fortress San Felipe,  by this time it was late afternoon, so time to head back to our resort.  A fun filled informative day which we all enjoyed, and pleased we decided to do this tour.  Now back for a cool swim in the pool before dinner.

The second tour again was a full day to Ocean World Adventure Park. 

This park has a rain forest where we could enter a huge area where we could feed Love birds, E loved doing this. There were also flamingoes, parrots and toucans.   Dolphins,  sharks and seals also put on shows to watch, there was also an opportunity to swim with the dolphins, we had all done that previously so did not want to do it again.    We all decided to snorkel in a man made coral reef, so we donned the required mask.  I am not a swimmer, I am not a lover of putting my head  especially the face under water.  I did it, however, was not the most graceful person in the water.  Seeing all the fish so close was exciting, just wished I could have relaxed a bit more.  B and E did a second time, I took photos of them though a glass part of the enclosure.  Buffet lunch and a short rest, then off the the beach area for a swim.  Some dark clouds were now present, so we decided it was time to visit the gift shop, got there just in time before the skies opened up.   It rained hard and was still coming down when it was time to meet our bus back to the resort.  We got wet again.

We had booked two al a carte meals, one Japanese Teppanyaki grill and the second was a steak house, both were great dinners.   All of our other meals were from the buffet.  

All of the other days, we were in the pool, at the beach, taking photos, reading or just relaxing.  We each had our own room, so it was nice to have our own private times too.

Unfortunately, our time here was coming to an end.   We had never been on a vacation with just us three before, it was a great  time, and thinking of doing it again.

My son and D I L were also on vacation with friends, at the same time in Mexico.

If you have read previous posts you know I had an accident on an escalator.  I am now petrified of them.  The airport  in D. R. had two, both of which we had to use, the first was a short one, I put my big girl pants on, took a step, I was so scared.  I made it to the top and had tears running down my face.  The second was longer, made it to the top  once again.   

Home, now just need the weather to warm up here.

Have a great day

Cheers

My week in review

We have had some good, bad and ugly weather this week.  A mix of everything Mother Nature can throw at us, sunshine for a couple of days, including today, Friday.  Then we had freezing rain, a couple of thunder and lightening storms, and lots of rain, which caused flooding and washed out at least one road.  Today is looking a little quieter, however, the forecast is predicting more rain tomorrow and in the coming week.

Monday, I went to the yoga class and the coffee, craft and chat in the afternoon, and did some much needed housework.

Tuesday,  I was in my sewing room most of the morning, late afternoon  a trip to London, to attend the first day of a month long Jazz  festival.  This one was really enjoyable,  seven musicians, and six singers for a two hour performance, great music so loved every minute of it.

Wednesday,  an awful start to the day with freezing rain which I thought would put a stop to the guild meeting, however, warmer temp and rain made the early afternoon trip safe enough to travel.   Did the yoga class in the morning and early afternoon the quilting meeting.  Several members decided not to come, however, there was some lovely quilts for the show and tell portion of the meeting.

Thursday,  Did some laundry and a quick visit to some shops for some things needed for next week.  Finally, the last piece of paperwork arrived in the mail for the preparation of my income tax, so delivered everything to the accountant.   In the afternoon I packed my suitcase, just some last minute items to go in later.

Friday,  Wall to wall sunshine,  not quite as warm as yesterday.   I am writing this in the morning, this afternoon I will finish packing.

Tomorrow,  I am leaving for a vacation for some sun and warm temperatures.  Feeling a little on edge, understandable I suppose after what happened last year while on vacation.  This time I will not be travelling alone, my two daughters will be with me.    

Have a great day

Cheers

My week and disappointed

Monday, I went to my yoga class in the morning.  There is a new apartment building next door to where I live and at the present time model suites are being shown to people who are interested in moving in later this year.  A friend and I as well as others in this building went over to see what those apartments look like, should say we were being nosey.   They were nice, different features than the ones in this building, however, the price reflected that.  In the afternoon I went to the chat, coffee and craft get together.

Tuesday, it was cold and wet, so did some sewing and also sorted out the clothes I am taking on my vacation.

Wednesday, colder than the day before and the rain was now snow.  In the evening I went to a Jazz concert.

Thursday, the weather improved and we saw the big fire ball in the sky for most of the day.  Took advantage of the dry conditions and did some errands that needed to be taken care of.

Friday,  back to damp conditions again, a housework day.  In the evening I went to the monthly pot luck dinner we have here in the building.  Again, all the food was delicious.

Saturday,  Both my daughters and I were scheduled to leave early in the morning for a 2 1/2 hour drive to a baby shower, however, Mother Nature had different plans.  Where we live it was raining, we could cope with that, however, the place we had to go was experiencing freezing rain.  Unfortunately, we made the decision to stay home and not risk the drive which would have been on a very busy highway.  It was the right decision, however, I was very disappointed to say the least. 

Here in S. W Ontario, the weather can be nice in one location and miles (km's) further afield it entirely different and changes from one hour to the next.  At this time of the year we can expect a mixed bag of everything Mother Nature can throw at us.  So what to do on a rainy day.  Nothing, I did virtually nothing, apart from the normal daily things that need to be done.   Then I decided to go to the movies, and saw "Paddington in Peru" something to lighten my mood.  I was surprised to see so many adults watching the movie.  Two actors I like were both in the movie, Hugh Bonneville  from Downton Abbey fame and Olivia Coleman from the Crown.   When I arrived home, it was G & T time.

Sunday, you guessed it, it's raining again and becoming very foggy, these days make me feel lazy, so not sure what I am going to do today.  This afternoon I will get into my sewing room and do some cleaning up from a previous project and start another one.  

As I have made quilts for everyone in my family plus many for my sister's family I have decided to get more involved with smaller projects.  I have just finished this peacock picture.  It is not a very good photo as I was on the wrong angle to take it.  You can click on it to enlarge. Memo to self, take another one which should look better.  

Have a great day,

Cheers.

Spring

Today is the first day of Spring, but don't get your hopes up for Spring like weather just yet.  We are still in March, anything and  everything can be expected.  Such was the case this week.   Sun, rain, wind, balmy temps and down right cold ones. Yesterday, was a beautiful day, a record breaking high temp of 20*C, this morning quite chilly and snow flakes might be seen later today.

On Sunday, I joined some family members for dinner to celebrate my eldest great grand son's 15th birthday, how did he get that old.  He is such a nice young man, over six feet  tall and handsome.

For the past few days I have been suffering from a cold,  it is the season for them.  There is also a frightening number of people, mostly children who have measels.  Many families who do not believe in vaccinations, for various reasons, are those who are spreading the disease 

One of our big department stores that has been around for decades is now bankrupt, (a sign of the times) and has started to have a sale of merchandise.  I am looking for a particular piece of clothing for my up coming vacation, so off I went.   To my surprise there were very few people looking for the bargains and even less carrying a purchase, but I went ahead and starting looking.   A sale? not in my books it wasn't.  On the price tags there was a sticker, listing the original price and also the sale price.  Um! makes me think, what was the original price.   Just saying,   I left empty handed.

It was such a beautiful day, too nice to go back home, so decided to take a visit to the lake.  There was no ice in sight, and gentle waves were coming on to the shore.  Even a few people had their chairs out on the sand and enjoying the sunshine.  

I was looking for some small pieces of drift wood for a craft that I am planning to do, and was able to find several pieces that will be perfect for the project.  It was getting close to dinner time, however, not many restaurants for open, just a bit too early yet, so I headed home.  

Today, those clouds are looking as if they are full of something, so it is an indoor day for laundry and some sewing.   This evening, I am going to Brushes and Bubbles.  It is an evening of learning how to paint, the artist is supplying all of the necessary items and also giving instructions to complete the picture he has planned.  The bubbles are glasses of wine.  Makes me wonder what these paintings are going to look like when finished.  Sounds like a fun evening.

Tomorrow I will be visiting a friend who I have known for a long time, she is ill, so a nice bouquet of flowers will be given to her.  The evening is happy hour and that finishes off the week again.  I don't know where the time goes these days.

Have a great day

Cheers 

 

They are coming out of hibernation

 People, yes people are out and about.   It's not Spring yet, but the three sunny days we have just had are certainly making a spring in peoples steps.  No snow, ice or bitter winds to keep them indoors.  There is still a little nip in the air when the breeze picks up but, not enough to make me stay in.

The window in my bedroom has been open all day to bring in some of that fresh air.

On the weekend we put our clocks ahead one hour, so now on Day Light Saving time.  That hour puts my inner clock all out of whack.  Did not wake until my bedside clock said 8:00 a.m. my body was saying 7:00 a.m. 

Yesterday, I went looking for the Tundra Swans, there has been several reports of some settling in the fields that grew corn last year and have water in low lying areas.  I did see quite a few, however, they were much too far away for my camera to take a decent photo of them.  The wild life sanctuary ponds still had ice on them, so there were not any there.  These swans are coming up from their Wintering grounds on the Chesapeake Bay,  and heading up north to the area where they hatch a new generation of swans.  My passenger on this trip, then took me out for dinner, a glass of Pinot Grigio and a seafood platter at The Red Lobster.   It was delicious.

Today, Monday  I did my Yoga lesson, attended the coffee, craft and chat gathering and then could not stay inside anymore so went for an hour and half walk.  As I mentioned previously the breeze still has that nip, so certainly felt that walking into the wind, however, coming back I actually had to undo my jacket as the sun was warming my back. 

As I write there is a cup of tea beside me, and I am also looking out the balcony door at the perfectly blue sky.  Not a cloud in sight and my thermometer is showing it is 14*C.  

March can be a fickle month, so we cannot rule out some nasty stuff  yet.  March did come in like a lion, and as the saying goes, it should go out like a lamb.   I hope that is the way it will be until then I will enjoy the days we are currently experiencing.

Have a great day.

Cheers.

Some of it is gone

During the last week of February, we had a mixture of weather.   Cold with snow, a little warmer with rain, some welcome sunshine and back to cold and snow again.   With all those changes in the temps a lot of the snow we had melted and hopefully not making room for more to come.  

This morning as I write at 9:00 a.m. it is cold -7*C windy with sunshine.  My living room window faces west, so hope the sun decides to stay around until later in the day, me and my plants would appreciate it.   In a couple of months when the weather warms up several plants will be out on the balcony.  The poinsettia I received at Christmas is still doing well, so will not get rid of it until it dies off. 

This past week as not been as busy as previous weeks have been which is just fine.   Yoga, Mon, Wed, and Fri. I feel so much better after doing that even if it is only "chair Yoga".   On Tuesday, I went for a walk as it was such a nice warmish sunny day.   Doing some sewing most days to get the quilt for my yet to be born GGD, it will be going on the quilting machine next week.  Last night was the regular monthly pot luck dinner upstairs.

Grocery shopping these days seems to take a lot longer than it use too, not just for me, but a good number of Canadians.   We all are looking for products that are not made by our neighbour.    The grocery stores are a big help as red maple leaves signs are popping up on the shelves to help shoppers identify  "made in Canada" products.   I was successful with all the things I needed to stock up my fridge and cupboard.  At this time of the year we rely of the southern hemisphere for most of our fresh fruit and veg.   There are several greenhouses in the area that grow tomatoes, cucumbers and some lettuce.   It will some time yet before we can have fresh produce harvested here.  The first will be asparagus in May.

Have a great day.

Cheers.

The world of white

In the city where I live we have been fortunate to receive only light dustings of snow, compared to places further north of me.  However, that  changed yesterday and overnight when we had light snow falling for most of the time.  This morning, Sunday, is a different story.   Heavy snow is falling as I write and if the forecast is right, it will continue for most of the day.   Again, we are not expected to receive as much snow as some places.  Just glad I have no reason to go out.

This past week has been quieter that some I have recently had, but that is okay.  

Monday, went to the yoga class in the morning, coffee, chat and craft in the afternoon and also did some sewing.

Tuesday,  a very slow day of not doing too much, however, did do some sewing and reading.

Wednesday, yoga class in the morning and was planning to go out, however, the freezing rain and light snow put an end to that plan.

Thursday, a neighbour came for a visit as she wanted to know if I would fix a sweater for her, of course I said yes, it was going to be a quick fix.  This day was the birthday of my only grandson.

Friday, yoga class in the morning.   It was a cold day, but the sun was shining.  The forecast predicted the snow that we are currently having, so decided to get my groceries, make an appointment  at the office to have my eyes tested, as they did not answer my phone calls.  The evening was happy hour upstairs.  Everyone must be hunkering down, as there were more people there compared to some evenings in the past.

Saturday, as predicted and mentioned previously it was a snowy day, so no going out for me.  Fixed the sweater, also repaired a cushion from the lounge upstairs, and made the March wall hanging for my door.  I already had one for March, which I made last year, however, it had a rabbit and Easter eggs on it, not suitable for this year, so the one for this year has a St. Patrick theme.  

Today, Sunday will be an indoor day,  I have a couple of books I need to read as my DIL loaned them to me and I would like to give them back when I see her next month.  Also, need to start my next great grand daughters quilt, she will be arriving in May.

Tomorrow, is Family Day here, so almost everything will be closed.  It will be a great day for some families who love snow activities.

Keep warm.

Have a great day

Cheers.

Have a 

It's not over yet and the week in review

This past week has been a busy one.

Tuesday was a visit to my family physician,  Dr. S is a lovely young woman, I say lovely, however, I have never seen her face due to her wearing a mask.  I still have issues from my accident that I wanted her to check as referrals have been sent to two specialists  however, they were both declined, a third referral is now waiting for an answer, which from all accounts will also be declined.  Just waiting for an appointment could be 18 months from now, but I heard that six months ago.   So I needed her to check just to make sure I was OK,  which she did and also gave me a check up, blood work etc. and indicated I am doing just fine.

Wednesday was a sewing and meeting day with the quilting guild.  One of our members donated some fabric which was made into bundles for this sewing day.  Members sewed most of the morning making quilts for organizations helping those in need.   For our lunch, J a member of the group made a delicious soup, cheese scones from B, and sweet treats from others.  Then we had our regular meeting.  I also had a short visit from DD1 in the evening.  

Thursday was a day of "not doing too much day".  The drive to the Dr. is a long one for me, there is no other Drs. close to me who are accepting new patients, so I kept the one I had, which is almost an hours drive away.  Weather conditions, traffic and construction were all good, so it was a good trip there and back.  The sewing day, started at 9:00 am so needed to get up earlier, set the alarm for 6:30 am, I was awake at 5:00 am with no going back for a few more Zzzzz's.   So this day, Thursday was a catchup day and did not do enough to write about.  

Friday, yoga, I am liking this chair yoga for seniors, my muscles, not so much.  I didn't realize how lazy I have been, so some movements are making those muscles work, going to be fit as a fiddle, so they say.  Got some groceries and then happy hour in the evening.   This day we had a full day of sunshine, something we have not seen for a long time.  My days seem to be so much better seeing the ball of fire in the sky.  My windows face west, so I have a full afternoon to enjoy it coming in the apartment.   Oh!!   the dust, shows up when the sun is shining. 

Saturday, laundry and a deep cleaning to get rid of the dust, now all spic and span, and ready for another day of sunshine.

Today, Sunday.  We had a fall of snow overnight, so everything is white again, winter is not over yet.  We have a cloudy day forecast with cold temps.  The days are getting a minute or two longer which is making the evenings shorter.  DD2 has invited me for dinner this evening, she is cooking lamb, looking forward to that.

Have a great day.

Cheers

Groundhog Day

Every February 2nd. here in Canada we have groundhog day.   A groundhog is a medium sized rodent about the size of a fat cat, with a short tail and ears, strong jaws and two layers of fur.  It lives underground in a burrow, only coming out for grasses and other green plants.   It is also know as a woodchuck.  Legend has it, if this creature awakes from hibernation today, and it is sunny and he sees his shadow, we will have six more weeks of wintery weather, however, if it cloudy and he does not see his shadow Spring will come early.    As we have a cloudy day, an early spring is forecast by  Wiarton Willie, YES each community taking part in the groundhog day festivities name their  groundhog.  I don't have much faith in this fellow, winter will end when it is ready.

Friday we had rain, which melted a good amount of snow, not that we have a lot here, yesterday a beautiful sunny day, but just wished it was warmer.   Today, grey skies again and a forecast of snow to replace all that we lost of Friday.  It's winter, so not much more can be expected.  The only consolation,  the day light  is getting to be a few minutes longer.

A baby shower has been planned for the end of March for my granddaughter C and partner S.  They are expecting a girl, and the nursery is going to be a nighttime decor with blue sky, stars and the moon on  the walls.  I  am planning on making a quilt with a star theme and looking for the fabric this coming week.  

Three Christmases ago I was given a amaryllis bulb to grow, it bloomed and then was planted in the garden, the same thing the next year, and again in 2024,  today, three beautiful flowers are out.  Along with the poinsettia I received for Christmas 2024, my living room is filled with beautiful red flowers, which I hope will last for a few more weeks.

 The only thing I really miss living where I am now is a garden full of flowers, to get my "flower fix" I make a regular trip to a garden nursery, not to buy anything but look and drool over the flowers blooming there.  Could be a trip for today,

Have a great day.

Cheers.  

   

 

A new week

Monday, and the start of the final week of January, where did all those days go.   

Usually I find January to be dragging on very slow,  even with the grey skies, bitter cold temps and early evenings, it has gone by faster than I can remember.    Maybe, the positive frame of mind helped.   Doing things that I want to do, when I want to do them.  Doing some ME time.

Yesterday, was a beautiful sunny day, cold with a brisk wind and the sky this morning is even a brighter blue than yesterday, again the wind is blowing.  Forecast for later this week is temps above the average, with possible snow/rain mix.  

 Yoga this morning, crafty/chat this afternoon, both here in the activity room upstairs, after that I will be in my sewing room to work on the peacock piece I am doing and also getting the fabric prepared for the block required at our February meeting.  There is always some dusting etc. to be done, so another busy day ahead.

Have a great day

Cheers

Friendly Afternoon

 For the past few days we have had very, very cold temps, almost too cold for it to snow.   The weather now is certainly not as cold as it was, so we had another dusting of snow yesterday.

Myself and two quilting friends meet up about once a month and either do something quilty or go and look at quilt shops and drool over all of the fabric lining the walls and some times we walk out purchases.  Always, ending the day with lunch or coffee and something sweet.

Yesterday was one of those days and another friend joined us to.  Two bins of fabric had been donated to our group which had to be sorted for our guilds sewing day in February.   Sitting on the floor trying to co ordinate the colours and decide if there was a sufficient amount to make a small quilt took us a couple of hours.  We were successful in making 17 bundles of fabric to distribute to the members that are able to attend the sewing day.

This may not sound like a very interesting afternoon for some, but when quilting and fabric is your main ingredient for a hobby,  and you are with friends of like mind, I had a nice afternoon.  Ending our day with tea and cake, along with conversation to put the world right. 

As I mentioned the snow started just as we were getting ready to leave, not enough to cover the roads yet, so it was a good drive home.

Today, yoga this morning, shower and then need to go to the grocery store to pick up a few things,  do a little more on the fabric peacock picture I am currently doing and then this evening happy hour upstairs in the community room.

Have a great day

Cheers

COLD --------- and------- NEWSPAPER

Today is bitterly cold due to the Polar Vortex in this area, and it is suppose to be the same until Wednesday when it is suppose to warm up somewhat.

Daytime temperature at 2:30 p.m. is -13 *C with the wind blowing it feels more like -22*C.   Low for tonight is forecast to be -18*C and it will feel much colder if there is a wind blowing.  Tuesday night  is forecast to be -22*C.  The only consolation today, is the sun is shining and I do not need to go out.  

Buildings in the city are being opened as warming stations for people who need to get in out of the cold for a period of time.

I saw something FB today that I never knew before--- do you know this?

NEWSPAPER===== North, East, West, South, Past and Present Event Report.

I joined the Yoga group in the upstairs event room this morning, I thought I was quite fit enough for the bending and stretching---wrong.   It is held every morning in the week, however, this week I will be going every other day, likely because I will not be able to move due to the muscles crying out for help.

Also, attended a  coffee, tea, chat, sew and knit group this afternoon in the same room.  It was just a one time happening, and it was interesting to see what some of the people do here in their spare time.

I recorded the Trump today, I will watch it this evening, so that I can skip through all the portions of it that are of no interest to me.

Have a great day

Cheers.

 

Grey and wet

Just as the forecast predicted, we have rain for the time being, later today it is to changed into snow.  

I am hoping the weather will not hamper my trip to the theatre with a friend tomorrow.   The snow removal equipment is usually out early to take care of the roads,  Time will tell.

Happy hour last night upstairs,  it is usually the same group of people from the building who attend.  Lots of chatter and laughs.  

Not going anywhere today, so will get in my sewing room as soon as the bit of tidying, dishes and the bathroom clean is done.

Jumped, .... I don't jump, should have wrote stepped on the scales this morning.  Happy with the number that came up on the little screen,  three pounds since the new year.  I am not on a diet as such, just using smaller servings of healthy food with no grease or lots of sugar.  Also, including more exercise and walking.  On Monday I am going to join the Yoga class which is held everyday of the week in the community room upstairs.  Will also try and get as much walking in as I can depending on the weather.  I could go to our local arena, however, nothing compares to a nice walk outside in the fresh air.

Have a great day

Cheers

Dollar Store

There are some things I buy at the Dollar Stores we have here.  I don't know why they are called Dollar stores as very little, if anything is sold for the "Loony" (a nickname for our one dollar coin, it has the imprint of a loon on it).  A loon is a water bird here in Canada.  

Several years ago everything in those store you could buy for the dollar, then Covid came and since then prices of everything have gone up even in these stores.

While wandering around after I had picked up what I wanted, I saw in one aisle, on both sides, Valentine decorations, every and anything red.  It's only a month away, so thought that was acceptable.  On to the next aisle, Easter stuff, all those pretty colours of pale yellow, green, blue, pink and mauve. Two months from now, I guess I can live with that.   Another aisle, gardening things that cannot be used outside until the beginning of May.    Is it only me, that thinks all of these things are being displayed a little too early, or am I just getting too old for all of this stuff.  I am thinking the latter.

We have some sunshine today, possibly some rain tomorrow and then on Sunday a Polar Vortex is going to bring temps down which are being forecast as the coldest for the month.

Washed my car yesterday, it was an awful mess.  The roads have had a lot of wet and slushy spots on them, which also contains the sand and salt to melt the snow, neither of which are good for vehicles.    

Have a great day.

Cheers.

Sales

The weather promised to be good for the drive, the roads were clear and dry, so off I went for some retail therapy.

Recently I saw one clothing chain was closing, and huge discounts were going to be available until January 17.  Being a Monday I had hoped the mall where I had to go would not be too busy. There were hardly any people in the mall.  Bonus, as I do  not like shopping when there are crowds of people wandering around the stores.   

This particular chain, has two stores,  each having a different name, found the first one and purchased a lovely grey cardigan, with an 80% discount.   Looked at the directory for the second one and off I went.  Not much to choose from in this one, so suspect some of the product has been sent over to the first one as it was not far from a huge chain store, which would promote more traffic.  Left with nothing in my bag.   Wandered around for awhile, and noticed all of the stores had significant discounts notices plastered on the windows.  Stopped at another and purchased I nice little top, one for some warmer weather.   In the Spring I will be going on a short vacation on which a bathing suit will be required. I have not had one for a few years, so looked in one store and they had some nice ones that would cover all that was necessary.  Not the ones with little strings that leave nothing to the imagination.   In March I will go back and purchase one,  not the ones with the little strings.  LOL

Decided to go into "W", and walked right back out again, that is where all the people were.  I didn't really need anything there, just a wander around, as I do.   It was getting late in the afternoon, and wanted to get home before it got dark, so headed for the doors.   It was snowing, so much so I needed to brush off the accumulated amount from the windows.

The roads were wet and some spots were covered with a thin layer of snow which was blown over the open fields,  the traffic was light, so not a bad trip home.

Have a great day

Cheers

They are still in the front closet

 We have again avoided all the snow which has fallen north of where I live.   Living in the south, (S. W. Ontario) does have it's perks.  Don't jinks it by writing that.  My winter boots have not been worn so far this Winter.  Don't jinks it by writing that.

Wednesday was a meeting with my quilting guild, the first one for 2025.   One of the other members and I were the two who took care of providing an activity for the group and supplied the snack.   It was a nice couple of hours chatting about all of the coming and goings of the members during the holiday season.  There were several projects for show and tell, I had nothing to contribute to this portion of the meeting.

My living room is a mini greenhouse at the moment.  Two plants given to me for Christmas along with the amaryllis which now looks as if it will have a flower and the Christmas cactus is still looking great,  There is also a couple of plants inside for the Winter, Springtime will see them outside on the balcony.   

Had my hair trimmed yesterday, I was beginning to look a bit shaggy around the ears.  My hair has absolutely no curl so once it starts to get longer than I like it, it just hangs flat.  Just like everything else at the present time the price of that went up too. 

Prices!!  saw on FB this morning where the cost of buying stamps will be going up on Monday,  how true is that I don't know, but it would not surprise me at all that it is something that is happening.  

Need to go to the grocery store sometime today, for some milk, butter is on special too,  I don't use a lot but it is nice to have an extra pound in the freezer.  I always buy things I use if they are on sale and can be stored for a period of time. 

Better get moving.

Have a great day.

Cheers.

We have escaped it once again

The "We" is the city in which I live, which is closer to Lake Erie than the city that I moved from last year. 

What did we escape?  That white stuff....snow.  The city "L" received at least 22 cm of snow overnight and apparently at 9:30 a.m. it is still coming down, so people there will be digging several times today.  In looking at what people have wrote on FB there have been several accidents happening.  Some people never learn to drive in Winter weather.  The police always say " If you see snow, drive slow".  The plough's and salt and sanders will have a busy day today, and by the look of the forecast possibly for the balance of this week.

"L" always get more snow, as it is in line for the streamers full of snow, which are picked up from the winds blowing over the open waters of Lake Huron.  The wind picks up moisture in the air, the cold then changes it to snow and dumps it in it's path over the area.  

In "St. T" it looks as if we have had possibly 4 - 5cm of snow.  This snow is the fluffy kind, with flakes drifting down, just like they should.  No wind today, so there will be no drifts, not in this area anyway.

My quilting meeting is this afternoon so it appears to be an OK drive, as the snow is going to taper off late this morning.  I don't mind driving in the Winter, however, it is the other people on the roads I don't like to see driving as if there is no tomorrow.

Have a great day

Cheers

Started my diary again for 2025

For many years I have wrote in a diary, just jotting down the weather, temps and what I did during the day.

My 2024 diary only had six months of information, as I did not take it with me when I went on vacation, because I normally write a travel diary which has a lot more interesting information in it.  The accident I had did not allow me to even think about writing everything that was happening to me.   By the time arrived home, I was in not well enough to start the month of July, and then it wore on to August and then  just couldn't  get motivated for the rest of the year.

2025 is a new year, so started up again writing all the not so interesting things I do every day.  It does however, let me look back to see what I did or did not do during the days, weeks or months.

Just before I go to bed I sit down and enter the information.

Yesterday, was a busy day for me again. I'm getting to like these days of hustle and bustle.  So what kept be busy on Friday.   Out for lunch with two friends from my quilting guild, we tried  a new cafe none of us have been to before.  It received a "A" rating from all of us.  I had a steaming bowl of cauliflower and cheese soup,  so did P, D had a wrap which she enjoyed.  We did a lot of chatting and put the world to right and was not rushed out of the cafe as soon as our food was eaten.   It will be a place to go back to again.  

We then went to the local hospital and browsed in their gift shop.  It is operated as a fund raiser for the hospital and manned by volunteers.  This shop has a wide selection of gifts for patients or for people like us going in to look to see what they have.  Most of the Winter clothing they had was on sale, I saw a very nice sweater, did not buy it as I could not try it on, as I had two layers of clothing on under my coat which would have made it difficult.  I will be going back on Monday and hope it is still there.

A nice day was had by all.

I had received an invitation for dinner with friends, so once home I changed and was on my way.   Wine with appetizers, chicken kababs, baked potato, carrots and salad and more wine.  We then retired to the living room for dessert and coffee.  More wine and conversation.   I had a lovely time, getting home and in bed, late again.

It is a cold windy day again today, temp as I write this at 12:00 noon is -6*C,  we did not get any of the snow that the forecast indicated, further north did get it once again.

Christmas decorations are being taken down today, and returned to the locker until time to put them up again in December.   Now that our postal workers are now back to work I am receiving some of the Christmas cards stuck in the system for four weeks.  I am now going to be sending a note back to everyone, in lieu of cards.

Have a great day

Cheers.

 

So nice to slow down-- Or am I

The Christmas season was very busy for me, travelling to DD1 and her family of 11 people both big and small, for the 25th, so you can imagine the excitement when it was time for opening gifts.  All five children are well behaved and helped set the table with the food and helped clean up afterwards and do the dishes.  Mum is raising them the right way.  Then I prepared dinner for a visit from DD2 and her family of 4 and a boyfriend on the 26th.   On the 27th I visited GS and family to exchange gifts, then lunch with my son and daughter in law, then had dinner with a GD as she will be in Ottawa for her birthday January 25th.   On Dec. 28th I visited my sister and had a lovely visit, tea and cake and put the world to right.  On Tuesday, December 31st, GD and her five children made a surprise visit, it was nice to see them all again.  

In the evening of  the 31st. a group of resident's in the apartment building had a party to bring in 2025.  Karaoke,  dancing, games, a table full of nibbles of all kinds and of course, a drink or two.  I had a great time, the best New Years eve I have had in years, 

The weather co-operated for all of the travelling I had to do, not that I had to go too far, but at this time of the year we never know what it will be like from one hour to the next.  

Unfortunately or fortunately depending on your likes or dislikes of Winter weather, I had a green Christmas, even now today, January 3rd.  I only have a light dusting of snow from over night, which was added to a previous dusting from two days ago.

My living room looks like a greenhouse,  my Christmas cactus is full of the most beautiful pink flowers, DD2 gave me my final monthly flower arrangement from her Christmas gift of 2023, a poinsettia arrangement with three different plants in it, all different colours.  Two GD gave me a Peacock plant, (the common name), which I have not seen before.  During the day the leaves are spread and when it gets dark the leaves brunch up, like the peacocks tail thus the name.  Along with three other plants that will be going outside when the weather warms up in late Spring.  Having a garden is the thing I miss the most living in this apartment building, so these plants make me happy.

Must finish my coffee and get ready to get on the move again as I am going out to lunch with two friends.  Once home again, change my clothes and then out as I have been invited to have dinner with some friends.   

The weekend is going to be a time for me to pack up the Christmas decorations and finally get in my sewing room and start making another quilt, as a GD and her partner are expecting a little girl in May.  Number 8 great grandchild for me.  

Have a great day.

Cheers.