A Five Penny Walk or The Streets Are Paved With Gold!

$.05

My beloved and I have been walking together since our three girls were old enough to be left alone for a half an hour. Cathy was left in charge, as she was probably 12 and of an age where it was legal to leave them. We took off to walk the dykes in West Richmond which were only about 5 minutes away by foot. It was wonderful to be on our own, just the two of us. And let's face it, no matter what, our girls would have assured us that they were fine to be left on their own. I don't even want to know what they got up to when we walked away!

The point of this being that as we walked, it wouldn't be uncommon to find a coin or two dropped that had dropped out of someone's pocket. For many a year, we just stooped down and picked it up, and pocketed our "bounty". Finding coins became almost as regular as our walks. Noticing a trend, we decided it would be fun to collect it all up in a glass juice jar, the little individual ones that were popular years ago, just to see how much we collected. Thus began the habit of a lifetime. I cannot walk by a penny without stooping down and scooping it up.

In addition to a lot of foreign coinage, we have found loonies and twoonies, pennys, nickles, dimes, quarters and $2.bills when they were in vogue. The biggest finds were $5, $10, and $20 bills-believe me those were exciting days! One time walking down a totally deserted pathway with not a soul in sight, I found $40.00. I felt bad about that, because I knew someone was going to be upset at a loss like this.

I must put in here also, that my darling Dad still holds the record. He found a one hundred dollar bill all rolled up really, really tightly. Probably used for snorting coke. He noticed it but didn't realize it was money when he got out of his car at Willowbrook Mall, he kicked it with his foot. On the way out of the store it was still there so he stooped down to investigate and sure enough $100 dollars. (It's long gone people, so don't come after me for reimbursement!)

I can't tell you just how many juice jars were filled and refilled, each time tossing the bounty into a plastic baggie waiting to be counted. Before we moved to The Grove, we decided the time was right to total it all up and "cash in". The result was astounding. The grand total was $192.32! Not too shoddy for roadkill money.

When we moved to The Grove, we thought, should we bother with "collecting", aw, why not we decided. Yesterday is was a dime, today a 5 penny walk. Not all at once mind you--two in one spot, three at another. The most we've ever found was a wet $5.00 bill after a very early morning walk. That was a treat. We've graduated to a much larger plastic jar that formerly contained canned peaches. It will be a while before the treat of counting our bounty but in the meantime it's adding up and it sure is fun tossing in the coins.

I guess the moral of the story is this, a penny saved, or in this case found, adds up faster than you think. So the next time you spy a lonely penny laying there all alone and forelorn, scoop it up and put it in a juice jar on the top of your fridge-it adds up. But if you live in The Grove, leave them for us! You won't get rich, but you can have some fun while you are trying. Now, if I could only find the other half of that roadkill penny . . .

Habits first are like cobwebs, then they become cables!

Happy 3rd Anniversary April and Nick

Today is your third anniversary April and Nick. As we look back at that wonderful day in May, we smile and think such happy thoughts. It was such a beautiful day after the heavy morning rains subsided and the sunshine came out, just for you. Through tears of joy, we watched you take your wedding vows. So full of hopes and dreams, and just look they are still coming true! Blessings on your day today. We toast you and your happy life together.

Reach for the Stars!

This, That and the Other

Now that I've retired, there are no gossipy stories from work, trials and tribulations about commuting to and from, no heartfelt anicdotes of sights seen as I drove through a sad and worndown area of Surrey. Without being smug, I am glad.

This week has been such a nice one beginning with Mother's Day and all of the love my daughters bespoke of me. I really do not feel worthy of all that love and praise. But Thank you!

On Monday, Pappa and I went off to Cathy's to care for the two little ones. The morning reminded each of us what it used to be like when we were young and playing with our little gals. It was wonderful. We got to snuggle, and play and laugh and get cozy. Very sweet. The youngest, Caroline made us laugh so hard. She catches your attention by saying in a most determined little, deep voice - hey, hey - when she spies something she wants, such as a banana, and of course the little pointing finger goes along with it. Now that's communication.

Later on in the week my darling "dotter" Cynthia, sent me the cutest picture of her pride and joy, Ben. He was wearing a shirt which his grandmother sewed for him, made of the same bolt of cloth as Claire's school bag. That was an unexpected surprise. Ben looks so darling it really made me want to just reach out and hug him. Such a sweetheart. I guess we know who he takes after Cynthia!

On Wednesday night my beloved and I met my mom for dinner at a restaurant down the hill from her house. Usually when we've visited there in the past, the service while friendly, was always terribly slow. But not on Wednesday. We think it is under new othership, and our server was such a friendly guy, and we all got to eat off the Senior's menu to boot, which included, pie. Mmmm. It was so nice to get to get together and visit with my mommy and share a story and a laugh or two or three. Thanks Mom :0

On Thursday morning we trouped out to Ladner to see April and Abby, and Aunty Amy met us there too. Amy comes in from Vancouver and we drive to Ladner via the 10 Highway. How about this for synchronization? This time and last time, as we crossed over the main highway that takes you to the ferry, Amy turned right onto the road we were on, and was only about 4 car lengths ahead. Yesterday, we crossed over first and spied her car about 4 back waiting to make the turn onto the same road. We couldn't arrange to do that if we wanted to.

When we arrived, Amy and her Dad talked about the car outside and I went upstairs, and there in the kitchen was our dear little Abby in her highchair eating her pablum as her mommy fed her. Her little face just broke into the most magnificant smile when she saw me. All was so nice and peaceful, never did the little one realize that bedlam was about to ensue, with Pappa and Aunty Amy and Nanny invading their quiet little world. She didn't know where to look or who to smile at, but one thing is for certain, she loves her Aunty Amy. She started talking and smiling at her the moment Amy came near. I think it is partly to do with the fact that her mommy and her aunty are so very much alike. And without really knowing why, Abby recognizes these similarites. Pappa left for the swimming pool and we 4 girls had a wonderful time. The big problem was, that Aunty Cathy misses out on these rare get-to-gethers and for that we feel sad. Sorry Cathy. And Amy and April-thanks for the great shoes, I just love them! April you really didn't have a chance at them did you? That wasn't intentional, honest, but I really, really love them!

This is the long weekend, and my tomato plants are growing and thriving in their pot outside, lovingly covered each night to protect them from the coolish night air. Last year I planted them 3 weeks too late with the end result, that many didn't ripen on the vine and that made us feel so sad. We didn't want to repeat that again this year. So here's hoping. My sweetpea plants are shooting up through the dirt in their temporary pots housed in my office. It looks like I'll be able to plant them next week when the weather warms up just a little more. I can see the bouquets already!

Thinking happy thoughts of Cari and Steve moving this weekend! Little baby Lulu is 1 today! Kayla had her school's Sports Day today, I hope she had fun! Alyson's Baby Peyton has arrived safe and sound; Andrea and Kirby get a long weekend to spend with Matty-Bug-yay; my mom and my sister are hoping to spend the first of many weekends at The Lake; Nick starts a week's "vacation". Oh April, maybe you'll get to sleep in a bit, here's hoping. But more importantly, April and Nick will celebrate their 3rd Wedding Anniversary on Tuesday, and my dear friend Yvonne turns the big 60 Tuesday too, yikes, Yvonne we're getting older! Cathy I hope you receive more bouquets of flowers, your cup overfloweth darling, you are blessed.

Before I end today's blog, I'd like to share a couple of pictures. One was taken in the very early 50s and the other one was taken just a few weeks ago, during a swim party, thanks to Uncle Tyler.

Cameron and below, his Pappa, both were about the same age, taken decades apart, but the similarities are striking. Both blond, ribsy thin and love water. Cameron in a pool in Murrayville, Pappa in a pool in Bergneustad, Germany.

Happy long weekned everyone!

Mother's Day 2006

Bouquets of wishes go out to all of the wonderful women in my life

Our Moms, Laura and Erika - you both have shown such great strength during the past years. Such devotion and love for our much missed and beloved, Ralph and Artur. Unimaginable loss, yet somehow, you manage to carry on with such dignity, grace and beauty.

My Sister Madeleine - no one would ever know some of the heavy burdens you have carried. You work so hard day in, day out, and are loved by all your clients, your family and your twisted sister!

My Sister Lilli - often left alone because my brother's work takes him away weeks at a time. Hang in there dear sister, he must be ready to retire soon.

My nieces - Andrea and Laura-hard working young women, managing to hold down jobs, keep house, do so much for others, and little for themselves, and are raising the sweetest little boys imaginable.

Silvana - from the first day we met, I knew, we would be friends. I thank my lucky stars that our daughter married into your family. We love you very much.

Some of my "adopted" children, Cynthia (with little Ben) and Cari (about to deliver in July) to name but a few-you two are beautiful, thank you for your love. (MommA)

To my cousins and Aunty Myrtle in The Peg - hold fast out there - I wish we lived closer!

To all the "blogger" moms. I read your entries and continue to be amazed at all the things you conquor as you go about your daily lives. Thank you for sharing your stories with us.

My darling daughters three:

Cathy-who would have ever known, or guessed that you would have such a wonderful little brood of children? You are blessed, as are we. I couldn't possibly do what you do and still remain sane. How do you do it?

April-look at you with Abby! It has been such a delight to watch you blossom into motherhood.

Amy-I am enjoying so much watching you and Kayla together. This is not always the easiest route to take, but you are doing so with flying colours! Not to mention your love and devotion to your nephew and nieces who adore you.

I wish each and every one, a Very Happy Mother's Day.

Love,

Allyson

Happy Mother's Day Andrea

See this beautiful young mother? Her name is Andrea, and she is my niece. Like so many young women today, Andrea works full time, as does her handsome husband Kirby. The only trouble is, Kirby and Andrea probably only see one another on weekends as this resourceful pair work on almost opposite shifts so that their wonderful little Mattie-Bug only needs to go to childcare 3 days a week. Together they have figured out how to get along by going along.

This little mommy needless to say is a very busy one. And what is she doing on Mother's Day? Well for starters her daddy, my brother, Richard is away. Therefore not wanting her mom, my husband's sister and my sister-in-law, Lilli to be all alone, has invited her mom over for Sunday Brunch. But wait, there's more . . . and as some people (ME!!!!!) never got their act in gear, but a very busy working mommy did, took it upon herself to invite my mother, and my husband's mother, who is Grannie and Oma to Andrea over for Mother's Day Brunch as well.

Adding to the dynamics of this wonderful invite, let me say, that my sister-in-law doesn't drive long distances, so my beautiful niece Riki (Andrea's beautiful sister), will be picking her up from Coquitlam. Now my mother-in-law doesn't drive at all, so the handsome Mr. Kirby, will be driving out to Richmond and then back again later, to pick up Oma. Add all of that onto, prepping for Brunch, shopping, cleaning, etc. etc. etc. as the King of Siam used to say, hosting and then the penultimate--cleanup, well, you get the picture. Mother's Day is going to be another very busy day for Andrea!

Andrea darling if you actually find time to read this, you are an incredible young woman. So filled with love. Your laugh is infectious. You are truly one of a kind. Giving and loving. A wonderful mother. God bless you my sweetheart. We love you very much,

Aunty Allyson and Uncle Dick

xxxooo

Pretty In Pink

Peonys for Cathy!

Oh How They Danced

At 3 O'clock on May 9, 1998

At Our Saviour Lutheran Church

Catherine Nicole married her beloved, Clifford Earl

and the rest as they say is history!

Happy 9th Anniversary to you.

How life has changed.

5 beautiful children,

another on the way.

Purging rooms and houses one drawer at a time!

From student to Journeyman Electrician.

A succession of vans and automobiles,

single strollers and doubles.

All with a wonderful sense of humour.

All with love.

We are so very proud of you.

Enjoy your very special day.

I Declare This Day - I Love My Husband Day!

Today as we were returning to our car and had literally just put items in the trunk, my beloved gave me the longest, most wonderful hug and told me how much he loved me and we both told each other how lucky we are to have each other. Right then and there it reminded me of why I fell in love with him almost 45 years to the day. You know how when you start dating someone and you aways remember the day of the month? Well, I used to know what day our anniversary was on, but with so much life that has happened in between, I've forgotten the date. I know it was somewhere between my late wise old age of 14 and after my dear Uncle Eddie's Funeral. I know the exact date we first met. It was Christmas Eve at our house at 135 East 62nd Avenue, Vancouver, when I was 14. We even danced in our living room-I know I was very impressed with this most handsome, blue-eyed grade 12 student! Little did I know then what a wonderful guy he really was. 45 years later he can still make me laugh uproariously, now that's saying something!

Happy Un-45th Anniversay my love! Still crazy after all these years!

Loving Arms to Guide You Through

I copied this picture from our daughter Cathy's blog, and was struck by what was framing this darling child pushing her toy -- arms and hands of those who love her -- not wanting her to topple or fall, Uncle Tyler, Caroline's Momma and Pappa reaching out ensuring a safe trip. Isn't that what we all want? It makes me wonder how many times we each have unknowingly been protected. It's a nice thought isn't it?

Today is Caroline's First Birthday!

Happy First Birthday to our Darling Little Caroline!

We have just returned from the first portion of the Birthday festivities. This little Birthday girl was surrounded by love. Cameron, Claire, Carly, Catie and Kayla, Uncle Tyler, Aunty Amy, Mommy, Nanny and Pappa, all there to oooh you, aaah you, and carry you around. Today Miss Caroline you are the much sought after prize, be it the Nobel or an Oscar you belong to all of us!

Pappa and I bought her this neat Playschool Walk and Ride toy. You took to it like a pro! When we all clapped, you smiled so brightly as if to say, yup, that's me, I can do it. You shifted the gears, you spun the wheels, you found the item Aunty Amy hid away in the front compartment. This toy, was made just for you!

And later on somehow, you were standing all alone in the middle of the room by Uncle Tyler! Wow Caroline you are really something. If only Uncle Nick and Aunty April and Cousin Abby, Daddy, Nona and Grandpa had been there they would have cheered you on too.

Happy Birthday little Pet, may you live long, find joy in all you do, and love in abundance always--you are deserving of it all.
Always and forever,
Nanny and Pappa
xxxooo

Today is your Birthday!

Where did the year go my little one?

How the 365 days have slipped by so quickly is beyond me.

You have grown into such a sweet little girl,

a toddler, a talker, a smiler and a big waver

Your Nanny and Pappa Love You So!

Happy Birthday little one.

What are the Odds? Today is your Special Day Caroline

From Photobucket. How could I resist a cake with my darling Granddaughter's name on it? I wish it had been me that baked it. Sweet Caroline.

Ah, Retirement!

From the Yellow House!

I was doing a bit of browsing in photobucket and I found my house. Too much time on my hands you say, well, actually, yes and loving it!

Birthday Greetings and Wishes

Mom with her two Bright Stars!

Today is my dear Mother-In-Law's 85th Birthday!

Sending out my love to you this morning Mom.

The sun is shining.

The birds are singing songs of joy, just for you.

The breeze is gently blowing the tulips and grasses all in your honour.

Oh that we could turn back the hands of time and that you were a

carefree young lady of 16 again!

But that can't be.

I know in your heart you still feel like that beautiful young lady,

I wish I'd known you then, but I am delighted to know

you now and call you Mom.

Blessings to you today and always,

With Love,

Allyson

xxxooo

A memory, without the picture -- two years ago at Cathy and Cliff's, mom jumping in the trampoline. How many 82 year olds do you know that would and could do that? She is truly an inspiration.

Retirement is Grand!

For everyone that checks in periodically, the guilt was overwhelming, I was feeling bad that there wasn't a shred of anything new for you to read on my blog for weeks.

I am loving my retirement--at last--even though I officially retired on April 5th, I had been working at home on a 73 page instruction manual (along with samples and examples), a job description and an annual report that had been on my desk since early January. Last Thursday my beloved took the works to church and gave it to the Pastor. Whew, now it's official. No more work-yippee. I tidied up my office, and now it once again belongs to me, all me.

Between post-work, we had a lovely visit with my Aunty Myrtle from Winnipeg, Mom and she came to dinner last Thursday. My wonderful Aunty regailed us with stories about the family I know so little about. When I was almost 2 we moved from Winnipeg to Vancouver, so our family missed out on alot. It was wonderful to hear the stories of my Nanny and Pappa, and my cousins, aunties and uncles.

(Aunty Myrtle, my beautiful mom, Laura, and me in my newly cleaned office.)

On the previous Monday, we travelled to Ladner to get a preview look at April and Nick and Abby's new homestead. They are going to be so very happy there, I can picture it already. And April, if you are reading this, I found the sewing machine, daddy didn't put it in the crawlspace afterall :)! And since we are retired, my beloved and I decided that we could do with only one car, so after April and Nick's we travelled into Vancouver to Amy and Tyler's. She is now the proud (we hope) new owner of her daddy's Acura. Happy Driving my darling!

And then the biggie of all biggies, Cathy and Cliff moved on Saturday. We took the Fab-5 for the day. We moved the dining room table into my office--off the carpet and onto wipeable flooring--my idea, which if I may say so, worked like a charm, moved all ornaments and the like, and entertained and fed them for the day. It was a wonderful day, but we were deliriously tired when they went home. We put our place back in order and went over to see the new digs-one word-awesome! After that, I volunteered to go to the old place to do a bit of tidying up. That daughter of mine is amazing, there was hardly anything to do. And let me tell you, hardly a mark on any wall. How'd she do that? You should have seen our walls when our three were little, all you could see were spots for as high as their little hands could reach!

I must admit by the time we got home, we crashed right into bed, got up the next day to go to Church, came home for lunch, had a walk in the sunshine and then crashed, crashed, crashed. I'm feeling it, I'm 60!

Tomorrow, April and Abby will entertain both me and Aunty Amy. April tells me to pack my walking shoes, uh oh! Sounds like another busy day, I'd better get some beauty sleep.

Well dear readers, nothing too exciting from our vantage point, but our darling daughter's 3 made up for it.

Until we "meet" again, take care!

Are You a Child of the 70s?

Today being my official first day of retirement as I only worked Wednesday, Thursdays and Fridays, I had my alarm clock on --can you believe it?--so that we would wake up early enough to get over to Cathy and Cliff's so that they could sign their life away....anyhow, I digress, so listening to my favourite CBC Radio station this morning I heard about the neatest thing, especially if you were a teen in the 80s. That has to have been the longest sentence yet!

Anyway, Margaret Gallagher has this weekly spot on the radio and she talked about an 80s karaoke singalong. It is held the first Monday of the month at the Railway Club. Apparently tons and tons of people show up for this monthly event. They only play and sing 80s songs, like: You've gotta fight--for your right--to Par-Tay! Come on you children of the 80s, I know you know this one, because even I do! This was probably the only song I recognized, but I said to myself, I said, I'd love to do something like that. Come on Railway Club, don't forget about we children of the 60s! Apparently there is a TV show on CBC on at/or about 12:00 or 1:00 p.m. with the name "Vancouver" in it, and they are going to have a little blurb on TV. So if you want to know more, find out the name of the show, and tape it! Or, if you are like me, retired, and want to know more, watch CBC TV all day until the show comes on! Gee I wonder of Sesame Street and Mr. Dress Up still come on?

Dun du done, da done da done--

Casey and Finnagin let's look in the Tickle Trunk

Funny How Things Happen

Yesterday as my beloved and I were walking in the Spring Sunshine, I happened to look down, in the gutter if you will and I noticed this disc, I read the names on it and kept going, and then something made me take 3 steps backward to pick up the disc.

On the disc was written:

Jolene and David

06.17.06

I said to my beloved, I said, this must be April and Nick's Jolene and David. My beloved said, naaa, I'm sure there are many Jolene and David's, I said, naaa, this is them! When we got home, we phoned our April and sure enough, it is "our" Jolene and David.

It so happens that this "gutter" was right beside a very well used park where softball and soccer rule. So JoJo, if you or one of your friends was at "our field" we have your/their diskette. It's a little worse for the wear, so you might have to recut a new one. And while you're at it, make one for us too! I'll bring it over to April's next time I go visit!

The happy Couple on their Wedding Day!

Family Circus Fun

While we reading our "purchased copy" of the Vancouver Sun at MickeyD's yesterday, I came across this cute cartoon. This one is for anyone and everyone who has had to wear hand-me-downs as a kid.

The caption reads: "These pants I got for Easter are my favourite 'cause nobody's ever worn them before." Too true, too true.

Easter 2007, What a Glorious Day!

Amy and Tyler had the whole lot of us over for Easter Brunch slash Birthday Celebrations slash Retirement fun and frivolity! The house was beautifully decorated by Amy and Miss "K" who made the most delightful Easter decorations.

We devoured a wonderful pot luck brunch, with delicious homemade place settings for everyone. We watched a slide show from Thailand, including a hilarious video of Tyler and Amy driving on a little scooter type thing in Thailand, that made us laugh so hard that I have to smile thinking about it as I'm blogging. All of this was followed up by an Easter Egg Hunt for all the little ones, known as Team Orange and Team Yellow and it didn't even rain. We had such fun getting the families together for pictures, and then we went in and had Birthday Cake from an Italian bakery. We were spoiled. We laughed. We were together.

Amy and Tyler and Miss "K" thanks for the wonderful day! That's another one in the memory banks of life.

Happy Easter, with love and gratitude,

Motor and Diesel xxxooo

Goodbye 50s -- Hello 60s!

Here it is, 11:58 p.m. on Saturday Night and these are my very last moments of being 50.

I cannot believe that the big wheel has rolled by so quickly.

Where did the time go? Time to fly. Time to learn. Time . . . .

Happy Birthday April Leigh

Today is your birthday my love!

Many Happy Returns of the Day April.

Daddy and I love you very much.

xxxooo

And as I know you always like to read your horoscope, here is what it said in today's Vancouver Sun:

Today's Birthday (April 7) Apply your will with disipline and focus and your goals come together in record speed. People begin to admire you for your sophistication and savvy. But none of this maykes you dry--you're all smiles. Visit family in June. Singles meet a cute co-worker in September. Pisces people are attracted to you. A Taurus person is sweet and sincere.

Blast From the Past 13 - Lucky 13!

7 Saturday - SR 6:23-SS 7:42

Week 14 97-268

At exactly 4:44 p.m. April Leigh made her grand appearance weighing 8 lbs. 10 oz. You should see all the fine brownish hair all over her head. She has a very round face and head and I haven't decided who she looks like. But she is a real live doll. She started talking in the delivery room. I am so tired and happy, I'll never be able to put all my feelings into words. Dick was my greatest help and inspiration and without him it would have been very difficult. He was so fantastic with the breathing. I'm very proud of him, me and of course April.

Happy Birthday my darling daughter!

Blast From the Past 12

April 1973
6 Friday Week 14 96-269

Washed two loads of Cathy's clothes and hung them out to dry. Just did the barest of necessities because I'm too tired to do anything else. Then had an hour and a half sleep. It really feels like the baby is ready to drop right out of me. Right at ten to three my water started leaking. I held off until 8:00 to phone the Doctor but nothing happened. Went right up to the case room at V.G.H. and there I stayed.

No Longer a Church Lady!

Do you remember how it was the very first day of your job? Kind of scared, not expecting too much, but then you find that this working thing isn't too bad. Well my day wasn't exactly like that.

After being cut off by a very rude, pushy and bully of a truck driver, on Highway 1, my beloved and I made our way down to my work for the very last time. That should have been a hint as to how the rest of the day would go.

As it turned out, it was a day like any other, very busy, especially in a church office on the day of Maundy Thursday. A service tonight, Good Friday service tomorrow, and two Easter Services, Sunrise service and Easter Celebration service Sunday, which translated to a church secretary, means a lot of work! What with bulletins and notes and plans to be made, I still had to clear out, which was no mean feat. Other than well wishes from all of my beautiful children, and the Pastor who on the eve of the busiest time of the church year offered yesterday to take me out to lunch, which I refused because he is so busy, nary a word from anyone in the congregation. You wouldn't have known it was mylast day. Not a word, not a card, not even a dandylion! Was I expecting too much? I don't really think that someone perhaps telephoning and wishing me well, would be too much to ask, do you? Well live and learn I always say. Just because you work in a church it doesn't mean you will always encounter "grace".


So today for me was filled with excitement, disappointment and a bit of a let down. But the good news is, I won't be working on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sundays any more! Hip Hip Hooray!

Blast From the Past 11

1973 April
Thursday 5
Week 14 95-270

Dr. Lepawksky is still really sick. I met the other Dr. filling in for him and I thought it would be him who delivered the baby. Wrongo! It's a Dr. Britton whom I've never met. I must admit I'm really depressed about this prospect. I feel really terrible because I've never met the man and already I dislike him. How's that for being a creep!

As it turned out Dr. S. E. Britton turned out to be a delightful man! He had never had a set of parents-to-be who had taken the Vancouver Childbirth Association classes. He was impressed with us as it turned out. We had learned that through stage 3 labour ( I think it was stage 3), to sing a song. We chose You Are My Sunshine, and as we were singing it, he joked around saying he wished he'd brought along his guitar. I love a man with a sense of humour! It just goes to show, you can never tell.

Blast From the Past 10

1973 April
Wednesday
Week 14 94-271 4


I thought for sure the Baby was coming last night! We were both so excited. By 2 a.m. everything calmed down to nothing. I was supposed to see Dr. Lepawsky today but he has the flu. I just know I'll have it now that he's sick. I must try and hold off until at least tomorrow night. We made an appointment for 3:45 just in case. Just in case we're available that is. The plumber came and put in new taps in the tub. Hooray--hot running water again.


Those were the good old days when you called the landlady and she arranged and paid for the expense of a plumber, but not anymore, we call Shell Bussey's Home Time and get wonderful plumbers but they cost us the big buckos!

I was very excited last night when I went to bed knowing that this was going to be my last week of work!

Blast From the Past 9

Tuesday 3
Week 14 93-272

Nothing yet, what's going on in there? My little one is too comfy in there . . .how big do you need to be? Your Big Sister was only 6 lbs. 5 1/2 oz. you must weigh about 9 lbs. by now! I'm taking you back to the Doctor again tomorrow maybe I'll know more then. Dick was home with his cold again today but he'll be back to school tomorrow. We finally decided on names. April Leigh or Eli Alexander. I sure hope we made the right choice. I hope Baby likes it.


One thing I know for certain, Cathy didn't like what we were going to call her, Gregory Artur and April certainly didn't like the name Eli! And my almost 60 year old brain is thinning, so I can't recall for sure what we were going to call a boy if darling Amy hadn't arrived. I think it was Eli Alexander too if I'm not mistaken. All the way around, I am so happy that I had three beautiful daughters. We were and are blessed with three prized daughters!&&&

Thank You Pastor Faro

Because I am Lutheran I am on a site called "GraceWords". One of the contributors today was Pastor Rany Faro and he shared the following with us, and I share it with you:


You hear an old song and the face of a lost loved one suddenly appears, and in the space of the song the loved one grabs your loneliness by the collar and sends it out the door.

You stand before a painting and the peaceful landscape calls you in – or a scene of violent pain holds you in thrall – and for a minute that’s longer than eternity you enter the serenity, or you rage and grieve along with the picture’s tortured souls.

You read a piece of poetry and for the span of a minute – or an hour – you find a space to sit and listen to the sound of naked joy, or to stare into the face of unfathomable grief.

More than anything else, that’s what good art does: not answer questions or set agendas, but create space – space to laugh, to mourn, and to wonder who and how and why we are.

– Graziano Marcheschi in Wheat & Weeds and the Wolf of Gubbio

Snow and Other Things

Well if you've read my number one daughter's blog, you know that their family is going to increase. We'll just call them the Crazy-8s now, because life around there is going to be just that. If anyone can handle 6 children it certainly is Cathy and Cliff, God Bless Them! A new little life in the making, does it get any better than that? No, it does not! Congratulations C&C, C,C,C,C, and C! I'm betting here and now, on the record, that little baby Wee-C's name will start with a C too, what do you think?

This picture was taken Last Easter, when Cathy was almost due with Caroline and April was just a wee-bit along with Miss Abby. What a difference a year makes aye my girlies?

The snow covered our upstairs skylight. I couldn't believe my eyes. As pretty as it was, because its' melted now of course, the poor cherry blossoms and daffodils took a bit of a beating.

We had lunch with our dear friends Kathy and Tom before they headed back to our favourite holiday place, Osoyoos. It was so good to see them again. Hopefully by now, they are drinking tea and looking out their front window at Osoyoos Lake.

Today I went shopping and bought some Easter Treats to put in the plastic coloured Easter eggs for the Hunt on Sunday. Can't wait to watch all the little darlings run around, all hepped up on a sugar high. Originally I was just going to buy them tee shirts but after MSNing Amy I realized that she was filling their eggs, then so should I. Several weeks ago I went to our local WallMart and found 7 orange tee shirts. I think we should take pictures of the kids wearing them before the candy don't you?

Blast From the Past 8

Bob's 32 today and Daddy got another cold. He took the day off so we went to the Dr's. at 11:00 a.m. instead of 3:30. The Baby's head still isn't engaged but I've dialated 3cm. He said I could have the baby by tomorrow morning but I still don't feel anything! Just in case we've made another appointment for Wednesday. I sure hope I don't need it. I'll be very happy when the Baby's born it's getting so big. It must be terribly crowded in there by now.


Those were the days, when you could change your appointment at a doctor's office from one time of the day to the other. Ah the good old days!

Blast from the Past 7

1973 April
Mothers Day, UK, Sunday 1
Week 13 91-274

It may be mothers day in the U.K., but it sure isn't here! I was hoping something would start happening but it didn't. Cathy cut her left, top, eye tooth through today, it didn't seem to bother her as much as the right one. This afternoon we went to Little Mountain for a walk. Was it ever nice out there. The only trouble is Cathy always heads for the roads instead of up on that gigantic lawn. After our little excursion we went to Harvey's for chips and soft ice cream, tch, tch.


This afternoon we went to Ladner to see April, Nick and Abby, no ice cream, or chips, but good food and even better--great company! It was a lovely day. Now it's Cathy who has to keep her little band of cool cats off roads! Big wheel keeps on turning.

Don't Tempt Me People

If you are like me, there are times when you really want to let it all hang out, and let people know just how small and insignificant you really think they are, well this would be a perfect way of showing it. Come on people you know we've all been there at one time or another.

Do you think I'm feeling liberated because I'm just about to retire? Mmmmm, there may be something to that. All those pent up years finally busting loose! Only 2 more days, hip hip hooray!

Pssst Wanna Buy a Car?

One of our "dotters" is selling her great little Honda Civic. Check it out if you are in the market.

http://www.usedvancouver.com:80/classified-ad/2840946

Blast from the Past 5 and 6

30 Friday
Week 13 89-276

Cleaned the house again and I thought last week would be the end of it for a while. Our Second Baby is due today, but as I write this at five to eleven in the evening there is still no sign of it coming. I hope it comes soon, each day it gets bigger by approximately 2 oz. I really want a baby, not a one month old size to begin with. I guess Aunt Lil will be disappointed because today is her Birthday.



31 Saturday
Week 13 90-276

What a strange day today. It poured down rain at breakfast and by lunch the sun was shining. I was very sleepy today. I laid down twice which is a first for me. Dick felt like he was coming down with a cold, but I sure hope not. My rocking chair didn't come again today. That makes two days I've waited for it! I wonder what will arrive first, the chair or the Baby. I hope the latter! I thought I had show today, but I'm not sure. Typical of me I'm afraid.


Well for beginners, let me tell you right off. I must have been off my nut to clean so much. I sure don't do that anymore, but then again, maybe it was because I had little Cathy running around and I needed to keep it more cleanly! And that rocking chair, well let's just say, it arrived after April did, and it is now in her computer room. A fine Canadian made chair it is too,but the back is too upright for really comfy rocking which is still a disappointment to me! It turns out many years later we bought dining room chairs made by the same company. Amy never mentioned in the diary for obvious reasons, now has these chairs.

Blast from the Past 5

Thursday 28
Week 13 -- 88-277

Income Tax return mailed today. A dull day today and I thought the sun would last! I had really wanted to hang out Cathy's diapers and clothes. There's nothing like sunshine and fresh air on clothes. We finally get paid tomorrow. Boy I canno believe how broke we got. Our cupboards are barer than Mother Hubbard's today. I called Wendy for tomorrow evening so we can go shopping -- I'm sure I'll still be here.


I remember the days-- diaper days and pay days. I still have a clothes line and just love the way towels get crispy on the line, that is just the best. We only got paid once a month, and we really stretched that penny I can tell you. Well tomorrow is pay day for me to. My second last before I retire. Only 1 more Friday, and then 2 days next week--it's going to go fast!

The Countdown is On!

Only 1 more Wednesday

Only 2 more Thursdays

Only 1 more Friday

And my debt to society, er,

My work life committment is coming to an end!

No cakes, no toasts, no flowers, no muss, no fuss,

A free agent I shall be evermore.

Free to roam, free of alarm clocks,

Free to answer the telephone, but only if I want to.

Free to be me -- at last.

I'm getting off the rollercoaster called work.

I can feel it coming. Excitement, Expectations, Happiness, Joy!

Blast From the Past, Part 4B

27 Tuesday
Week 13 86-279
Ooops, posted today's yesterday, so today I post yesterday's today!


It was supposed to rain today, ha the sun gave us a great 50 degrees today. I dried clothes on the line, was it ever nice. After school Dick took us (Cathy and I) back to Richmond High to see the best of the water colours his grade 11s and 12s did. It really made me feel proud to see the results of Dick's labours. The Academy Awards were on TV tonight. The Godfather was Best Picture, Liza Minelli, Best Actress (for Cabaret) and Marlon Brando, Best Actor (The Godfather). Brando refused his award because of the Indian Situation in America. Good for him--I admire a cause like that.



Sunny yesterday and today too. I still love watching the Academy Awards. And as for causes, well depending on what it is, yup, I admire people who stand up for what they believe in!

Blast From the Past, Part 4

1973 March

Wednesday 28

Week 13 87 - 278



While I was seeing Dr. Lepawsky this afternoon Dick took Cathy out into the warm sunshine. We've been really lucky with our weather, I know it's too much to hope but I hope it lasts till Summer! The Baby now weighs about 8 lbs. 3 oz., it gained almost a lb. in a week. When it kicks me it feels as though my whole tummy shifts to the side. Dr. L. still stubbornly insists we're having a Boy. I'll say at least that the heartbeat was only 140 instead of 150 something!



This afternoon, this darling baby that I was carrying, not an "it", but a beautiful April, took her precious little girl Abby out for a walk in the sunshine! Ah, how the big wheel keeps on turning.




(April and Abby taken last Fall)

Today Was A Wonderful Day

Spring is definitely in the air. Can you feel it? The warm sunshine on your dark clothes, mmm, it feels so good.

Today, I got a sense of what it will be like to be retired and it feels so good.

Because of my impending birthday, I needed to renew my driver's license. It went so smoothly. I enquired where to go, the lady gave me a ticket and said "you'll be next". By the time I found a seat and looked at the various numbers posted in red, I heard a bell or a buzz and someone asked me, "are you E141?", yup and before I could say, wham, bam, thank you mam, I was done!

We drove to "Old Langley", Salt Lane to be precise, found a parking spot, had lunch at a little place called Dots where the service was friendly, and the homemake pea-soup and grilled cheese sandwich were really tastey. Dick left me with a refilled cup of coffee and a "free" newspaper to read, and made his way to the Barber Shop, the same one where he had taken Cameron on New Year's eve, and got a fine looking hair cut. After that we wandered into a second hand book store and found a couple of books, not at great prices, but they will certainly be good reads. We got back in the car and made our way to an office supply store and scouted out new telephones, and then we went into a Mountain something sporting goods store and bought a really fine jacket for Dick. He looks so handsome in it. It was made for him!

We got home, I made a cuppa for each of us, and while Dick read in the living room, I sat outside on a sunny bench on your back deck and soaked up some rays. Mmm, it felt so good.

I think I'm really going to like this new gig, called retirement!

2007 Is an Exciting Year

In about 18 days, Easter Sunday to be exact, I will be turning the big-60! And come, April 5, I truly and officially RETIRE. Yippee! Only 5 more days of working, and earning a living, yowsers! I love my job and I'm good at what I do, but the time has come for a change of pace. Sleep in every day, if I want to. Go walking with my man at the crack of dawn, if I want to. Work out at the pool, if I want to. Go see my grandkids, if I want to. Take our moms out to lunch, if I want to. Lose lots of weight, because I MUST. It's time to start taking care of me.


No longer will I be restricted to Monday and Tuesday only. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Fridays will be mine, all mine! I can't quite believe it myself, but it shall be so.


And on July 15th, we celebrate our 40th Wedding Anniversary. What a year, what a year.


No matter what happens during this wonderful year, 2007. It is loaded with possibilities. And I say, bring it on, I'm ready!

Blast from the Past, Part 3

March 1973

26 Monday

Week 13 86-280

We went to our last class this evening. Another dropout, Marnie and Dennis "M" had a boy, 7 something yesterday. Pat and Brian "B" and the "D" are expecting right about now too. Maybe we'll meet in the hospital. Helga gave the baby a really cute knit suit from Holland for Cathy, a pair of white leggings. Are they ever cute. I cooked "Big Daddy" his favourite today -- cabbage rolls. Did he ever like them. The rest are for him while I'm in V.G.H.

Would you believe the same Helga who gave us gifts ended up many years later, being Cathy and Cliff and Cameron's neighbour at the townhouse? Small World.

And as for Cabbage Rolls, they are still "big daddy's favourites", but now big momma, is lazy and makes lazy cabbage rolls instead. Isn't amazing how much more energy you have as a youngster? I am really feeling my +++++59 age!

A Date With Miss Abby

I think it's been close to 3 weeks since I saw our youngest grandaughter, Abby. Today was the day we changed that. When I knocked at the door, well actually Abby's momma was knocking at me from the inside. The door opened and who to my woundrous eyes did appear but April holding the cutest little baby in Ladner (don't tell the other Ladner Moms, I am of course just slightly prejudiced, which I am sure all Ladner momma's would agree, was only right!), Abby all smiles and happy in her pink and white sleepers with the bunny rabbit on the bumbum.

She remembered me!

We three had a delightful visit. Sadly Pappa stayed home with a cold.

Abby showed me how she could suck on her tootsy-toes, stand in her exersaucer, tell a story, and smile to beat the band. After a short little visit, she became just a tiny bit sleepy, but let me tell you she fought sleep all the way, that is, until she finally closed her big, blue eyes on my shoulder, where she slept for about an hour. She awoke with such a beautiful smile for me. She is truly just a little darling.

Four hours later back at the front door, Abby's face all alight with smiles, I made my getaway. Man that's a hard one.

See you next week ladies. I love you so.

I am blessed with grandchildren and daughters and sons. How did I get so lucky?

Blast From the Past, Part 2

1973 March, Sunday 25 Week 12 84-281


Cathy fell head first into the tub today. I just about had a heart attack grabbing her. She didn't cry or even act scared, I think that is amazing. Dick worked out the New Income Tax Form today while I did the laundry and dishes. We get about $60.00 back-what a neat surprise. This afternoon we drove over to Dick's parents, but they were out. No wonder, it was just beautiful out. If it weren't for the wind it would have been lovely and warm out.


I wonder what this new week will bring. Will there be three or four of us at this time next week? Fixing up everything for the new baby is every bit as exciting the second time around. I can hardly wait to have you in my arms. All that wee need to do now is pick out your name. We chosen so many, we can't decide.

Well $60 wouldn't go very far today would it? But back in the 70s that was big money! Sunny Sunday in 1973, Sunny Sunday in 2007. I hope you all had a lovely day today.

Little Girls, Little Girls

Pappa and I had fun today, two of our little girls, Caroline and Catie came over to play while the "older" portion of the family went out to play.

Catie reminded me of her Aunty April, as she walked around with these two beenie babies, April's, the orange one and Mommy's, the pink one, hatless, and bald, it took me back 30+ years!

Poor little Caroline has a horrible cough and a runny nose, but that didn't stop her smiling from ear to ear. She was talking away and walking away pushing this little "activity table" across the floor.

We had such a lovely day. Pappa and Nanny one-on-one--terrific fun. We have to do that again really soon.

m m m m m m m m m m

Colds must be in the air, after the little ones left, I spoke to April and Miss Abby now has a cold also, and just moments ago, I hung up after speaking to my mom, and my Brother, Richard has a cold too. It's got to be all the damp weather. We're never drying out! I'm not certain, but I think my toes are beginning to web!

Tales From My Past

24 March 1973--Saturday SR 6:55 SS 7:20
Week 12, 83/282

A few days ago my beloved was in the office and opposite my computer is our bookcase, and on one of the shelves in the bookcase was my Journal from 1973, the year our beloved April was born. The funny thing is, the days of the week are the same in 1973 and 2007! I must look for some old calendars I kept from the year April was born! Now where is that box of Baby Books?

This is the journal entry, just days before April was born...

Today we rearranged our bedroom to accommodate the new baby. We think the room looks really nice, it will seem strange in there we finally move her/him? in with Cathy. Today was really a busy time and I really got worn out. But, I'm afraid this is an occupational hazard for a pregnant lady. I had to wash my hair again, boy does it ever get oily fast 2-3 days and it needs washing. This evening I wrote a letter for Dick about getting a day off with pay. I sure hope we get it.

Too funny, oily hair. Mat leave pay for daddy. Gee my life hasn't really changed all that much!

Happiness Is . . .3

Today as Dick and I were returning home from Staples to pick up Sunday's Church bulletins--don't ask--I looked to my right and in the car right beside us was family, my family, our family, my handsome son with his welcoming smile was smiling at me!

I don't know how many times we've driven up and down 200th Avenue and never ever saw anyone we recognized. Which in large part has to do with moving to a new area. When we lived in Richmond, it was a rare day when we went out and didn't see someone we knew or at least recognized.

We pulled over and got out of the car, hoping that we could meet up for coffee, but alas, Caroline whose little face we didn't get to see today and Catie, were both sleeping. But Cameron with his new haircut, and Claire and Carly were all smiles. By the time we determined that Cathy and Cliff were on a mission--many stops--and on top of that, sleeping kidletts, Catie woke up.

While we weren't able to do anything together today, that short, brief, unexpected encounter made my day. Any day with family is a good one. Hope you got all your shopping done!

February 24-26 A Few Pictures

I don't know why the big white space between pixs and text so scoll down! I'm technologically inept when it comes to this type of thing, so my apologies to you dear reader!

Last weekend was pretty busy around here, this weekend--more what we are used to living in The Grove, a quieter weekend! In random order as I load the pictures in, everything from Claire's 6th Birthday, from eating lunch in our tiny kitchen (Cameron and Carly do you remember the carrot biting competition to see how loud we could be?), (take note Cathy-clutter, clutter, clutter!) to Cake, to sleeping baby on the couch in all the commotion, G.G. arriving as the kidlets were making welcome home signs for Aunty Amy and Uncle Tyler. Amy and Tyler arriving home at VIA and part of the Greeting Committee--the pretty part, April and Abby and the famous sign April made for Amy and Tyler and the snow picture I tried to take with the full memory card using April's digital camera, but had to use my old technology instead. (Amy and Tyler can you see the lovely potted plant you gave me for my birthday last year? The Heather is in bloom, and if you look closely, you will see the snowdrops in bloom in the large green pot-these are you Dad's favourite flowers!) Also, a picture I just love of Cathy with her Daddy after I had given her permission to give him a smack for acting silly, but these October babies stick together and she said "she couldn't do that to her daddy" so she hugged him around the neck instead and I took the picture! There were other pictures too of the beautiful Miss "K" greeting her daddy, and a lovely one of her sitting on the carpet waiting for them to arrive through customs, with the sign she made to welcome them home, but I don't feel free to add those to my blog without permission, so you will just have to take my word for it-that, she is: a) beautiful and b) a lovely little girl and c) and that we think the world of her! Enjoy!