Just for you!

Happy Birthday to you

Happy Birthday Dear Jeff

Happy Birthday to You

We'll celebrate with you when we get back!

If you say you are going to call, Call!

If not, you may just get hot dogs for supper instead of roast beef. I felt bad but...what else could I have done?


The camper is quickly filling up...my shoes and clothes are packed but none of Joe's! I guess I should get on that, shouldn't I? As I think of stuff I put it by the front door, my mind is racing around in circles trying not to forget anything, but I will.


I settled Dad's accounts for the month of July this morning. That's one less major thing to worry about. Helen has our cell numbers, just in case. We are so lucky to have her! She has plans on tkaing Dad out to the Medicine Hat Stampede this weekend. Dad always took Mom there, and they would check out the animals in the barns and then Mom would wander over to the crafts and quilts and baking. She should have entered some of her stuff...she was a great cook. Although Joe would say the soup wasn't very good! That is an inside joke...for those who remember I hope it brings you a chuckle, the others...ask us about it sometime!


Well I have to check my mail...hope there aren't any more bills to cut into our holiday fun money! We'll be on the road again very early Friday morning...keep watching the blog, we'll try and update daily via wireless satelite.

They say it's all in the timing!

What a shock we woke up to this morning...gas prices sky rocketed by 6 cents per litre! They knew we were just about the leave on a camping vacation across Canada, didn't they???????? So today the going price is 114.8...why can't buying gas be like bidding on a house...you know...low balling ( but not out west where real estate costs more by the minute)or at a yard sale...where you offer a dollar when you can see the sticker saying $2.

Excuse me, while I go dump the lawn mower gas into the truck...that should get us out of town!

It's starting to set in

Us going on a cross counrty camping holiday, that is. It's been so long since we had the luxury of all this time off, together. Last year Joe just barely got home from Camp Julien, Afghanistan - Paul, Cheryl & Amy showed up the following week. And didn't that time just fly by! the next thing you know it, they were gone and Joe was too! talk about mixed up feelings.

But today, I actually started to get all pumped up...I'm going on a holiday with joe and Cody...poor Chow opt'd out. She'll houseidt the housesitters for us! See everyone soon!

As you can see, Andi added the blue puffy clouds.  It almost has a fantasy appearance now. I guess if someone(s) decide to have more children we will have to figure out a way to add more symbols!  The good news, we have lots of time to think up ideas!

Sorry for the lack of updates

Things have been a bit crazy at the house lately. With 7 people in the house all going in different directions, and scorching temperatures...it's been hard to find a few quiet moments to go online. Mount Washmore is a challenge to keep up to, not to mention going from cooking for 2 to 7...and some of them picky eaters!

Buffy started work the day after arrival and in true retail fashion, the other side was short staff due to no shows . The 2 girls have both worked the Dub before so got dratfed into service. That wasn't too bad while Ed was still on vacation but now he's back in NB, I was drafted to watch Cody. I had things to do yesterday so I wasn't in the best mood to have a minor charge underfoot all day. Hopefully the home hunting goes well tonight. Buffy's parents also moved out in late May and did the whole what's for rent routine so they have a wealth of contacts to share. Hopefully they find a nice place in time for school enrollment. The kids need their space. They will have more once we leave this weekend's end.

Happy news from Heather & Jeff...it makes it all the more real. We seen some cute outfits but didn't buy...wrong size for a winter baby! Soon, though we will go crazy! We'll order the nursery furniture after our holidays...give Jeff time to move his business office downstairs.

Joe got the final work done on his tattoo. I'm having trouble posting the pic...blogger not co-operating today. Will try again later...til then - stay cool!

Guess what, more races!

Seems we are representing the company at Saturday's Grand Prix....oh, it's only going up to 32'C....Not sure how long we will be there, starts around 8 am with qualifying, then some drifting and more qualifying...should be fun, though. Will post pics of the sunburns Sunday!

Each in our own way are getting ready for the trip

I'm doing the boring stuff, load the camper, sort out the clothes, food toys for the kids. Then I set up bill payments while we are gone and halt our mail so I don't lose anything. Joe did call and get the lawn service arranged after I pestered him, looked up the phone number and actually passed him the phone. Thanks Dear!


Yesterday Joe did another huge job...got a truck bed cover installed! I better watch it or I may be riding back there!

Better each day

Yesterday, Joe stayed at work for the entire day, but was very sore when he got home. A soak in the hot tub seemed to help ease the sore muscles. He's tough, didn't want it wrapped for the evning and woke up restless and sore. Oh well, vacation doesn't start until next Friday! Lots of time!

I'm practicing cooking family sized meals...we went from 2 to a house of 7 with Buffy and family here. The house will seem so quiet once they get set up, until then, this house is rocking!

Men's Sunday morning Golf tourney!

Well after hearing about the MacLean men's golf expertise, Joe & Aaron finally had a chance to put them to the test. They were not disappointed. Brian was the only one to birdie @ Hole 3. Gary was nicknamed Honours and took full advantage. End result, 4 very happy guys and 2 more pictures for the Wall of Fame in the Bar...now to see about some frames for these autographed masterpieces! FORE!

Whatcha think? Needs some yellow?!

Joe had a better night although getting up in the morning and trying to put weight on that ankle is rough. But less drugs and more time between re-freezing the peas has to be a good sign.

Still laughing through the pain!

After bandaging up the ankle so he could drive, Joe toughed out most of the day at work. As he calls it, there were crocodiles everywhere, which is par for any Monday. He did ask me if I had an air brake course...he's short drivers today for a staff run. It sounded like a good idea until he realized that the ride wouldn't be pretty...not with my values and their not so 'delicate' language. Am I that much of a prude? You bet I am! Why should I lower my standards at this point in my life?

Not sure what excitement tonight will bring...I haven't connected with Buffy and family yet. I called a few places & I did have a nice chat with Dale though, nothing like stirring the employment pot from time to time! No jumping into the fire until after our holidays...I may still have to drive the truck & camper...and until I've finalized the books for this year's audit!

Reader's Digest version -

Joe fall down, go BOOM!

Off to the Medi Centre...hospital for x rays...back to Medi Centre...not broken. very bad sprain...no dancing for at least a month. I wonder if I can back that silly camper up in anothing smaller than a football field? Don't put any money on it!

Lesley has the pictures...you know, I think she could be one of those secret photojournalists for the National Inqui*er!!! She has her camera ready for all the special moments.

A special Thank you for Kathryn timely EMS attendance...yes we will make your wedding cake for you...name the flavour!

Thanks to Gary, who for some unknown reason carried the tray of BBQ ribs into the house seconds before you know who fall down, go boom!

Thanks everyone for cleaning up the kitchen and locking the door on the way out. It's not the way the day should have ended but...it was quite the distraction, wasn't it!

All in all, it was another great weekend. Brian showed Gary all his old haunts..., the guys got in some good golfing, new pictures on the wall of fame...and Lesley helped me spend Joe's money on a holiday wardrobe.

I just wanna have fun!

I am so NOT focused today! Company coming, a quick dust & vac or is it the other way around. Swipe through the bathrooms, empty garbage...pet stuff etc...make ice cubes, stock the bar fridge.



Then the phone rings, Brian! He has to work another shift, so they won't get here until 10 ish Saturday morning. Call Joe, get the golf date re-scheduled...poor Joe, now he has to golf two days in a row...no sleeping in for him!



I wish I had a call from Buffy before they left from NB, just so I know when to expect the next wave of company. Worse case scenerio...people will sleep everywhere...camper, bar, workour area. Stack 'em high we will!



I was going to make a stew so food would be ready when people arrive. Scrap that...I don't eat meef stew. Now it's bbq burgers for 2, munchies after the Calgary gang arrives.





Now, here I sit, wanting to have some fun and the dog and cat are napping! Geesh...I think I'll go into town, get a hair cut and check out the dollar store for Alex's replacement swim goggles.
Until later, when my head slows down to a crawl - have a great weekend!

Would this work? Sorry Chow!

1. Put both lids of the toilet up and add 1/8 cup of pet shampoo to the water in the bowl.

2. Pick up the cat and soothe him while you carry him towards the bathroom.

3. In one smooth movement, put the cat in the toilet and close both lids. You may need to stand on the lid.

4. The cat will self agitate and make ample suds. Never mind the noises that come from the toilet, the cat is actually enjoying this.

5. Flush the toilet three or four times. This provides a "power-wash" and rinse.

6. Have someone open the front door of your home. Be sure that there are no people between the bathroom and the front door.

7. Stand behind the toilet as far as you can, and quickly lift both lids.

8. The cat will rocket out of the toilet, streak through the bathroom, and run outside where he will dry himself off.

9. Both the commode and the cat will be sparkling clean.


Sincerely,
The Dog

Do these go together?

I guess if I was brave enough to wear these clothes I could work for the circus, but seeing as they are growing in my garden...what's a girl to do but take a few pictures.

Off topic, Alcide finally got the go ahead to head up to Fort McMurray, after a half day of pacing. he wasn't worried, just anxious to get going and making some of that Alberta money!
Joe & I enjoyed our surprise visit from him and we hope he can return for a weekend when the Eskimos are playing! Good luck with the new job Alcide!

He sure is thirsty!

Our dear neighbour and friend Joanne makes awesome wine! She definitely puts a lot of TLC into those carboys, because the end result is so smooth and full bodied. For Joe's birthday last month, she presented him with this huge bottle of her finest batch yet. We had to wait for an appropriate occassion and that was this past Sunday. CHEERS!

Is that 3 or 4 times on stage, Joe?

Well Joe said he was going to sit quietly, and behave himself...WRONG! Well he tried to, but he was just oozing charm and they picked him for an onstage appearance in the first act.

The premise of the show was the struggling Peter Donna Hospital had to put on a talent show...Joe was the strong man who ended up in emergency. Joe's big entrance was hilarious...the gown they selected was way too small-that may have been intentional-Joe's doing his imitation of joseph's strong man, then they had him get down on the floor and do push ups! They wanted to see how many he could do. Once Joe got up to 4 pushups, the lights dimmed down and the show continued on one of the side stages. Then the main stage is lit and there's Joe, struggling with his push ups as they count to 398, 399...and at 400 he collapses on the floor! It was so funny, the woman at the table behind us, asked if we knew that guy...I did have to own up, I was laughing that hard.

As usual the Prime Rib was rare, and the music well done. There were tunes from Dionne Warwick, Sammy Davis Jr, Madonna and even the Partridge Family. Hey, can I help it is I still know the words!

Today it's back to reality...work! Have a great week everyone.

There's some misbehavin' going on!

We all had a busy week, Joe at work, me around the house and our house guests getting ready for work in Redneck Country.

While Joe & I were walking around the market in search of the elusive green tomatoes - yes we prevailed! - we made an executive decision - wings & pizzas along with martinis and other drinks and maybe a game or 2 on a Saturday night in Morinville. Well, we didn't get the games done, too busy chatting and telling true stories. Joanne popped over and there were more stories...We had lots of fun and just a little heartburn.

Tonight we managed to score another seat at Jubilations and will drag Alcide along for tonight's performance of Emergency Room. I am designated driver, so you know who can just go for it! I'll take the camera in case there is an on stage appearence to blog tomorrow! Stay tuned, same time, same Bat channel!

Where is the time going?

Seems I have so much yet to do before we leave for the Maritimes. Dropping 50 pounds would be great but it's not gonna happen! You'll have to take me as I am...and that may be in old clothes if I don't get moving and go shopping!

There's something about shopping for clothes with Joseph...I can clearly remember the time he wanted to be helpful and was trying to find me a nice 'pant suit'! And that wasn't all that long ago. Dear, we are in the new century.

I don't have a problem spending money with the girls. I wonder if it's because they like to spend their daddy's cash or they are just very good at picking out stuff for me. Then there's shoes - let's not go there!

Have a great weekend all. We are starting things off right with a friendly match up between the Eskimos and the Lions. Wally won't know what hit him, I hope! Tomorrow after a dump run, we are off to the farmer's market. A farmer has promised to bring in some green tomatoes! YUMMY! And Sunday evening is Emergency Room @ Jubliations with our dear friend Joanne.

Don't forget to use all the colours in the crayon box!

What a great phone call I just had!

My friend Peggy called from Halifax on the Skype system. I've downloaded the software, now to get the headset/microphone so I can call her, gratis at least until the end of the year.

Peggy & I went to high school together...Class of '74. We are fellow suffers of Mr. Mahoney's English class. He really was a dear but when you're 17/18...Anyone over 25 seems ancient.

I've found that every now and then you run across someone who makes being friends easy. It doesn't matter that we haven't always been physically close, but we always seem to keep the other in our thoughts. Well when Peggy called, it was like we were back on the Miramichi, making plans. The talk flowed so easily...you knew it was right.

The same thing happened a couple of summers ago, when Brenda & Bette popped in for a quick visit. It was like we started where we left off. You know, I bet Peggy & Brenda would get along great too.

I am so happy to be me.

Can you stand the heat?

Our 'on the ball' weather people on Tuesday predicted temps of ~ 24 for today...I can work with that. What a nasty surprise this morning to find it overcast, humid and a high of 30! I promised the guys a roast chicken dinner for supper tonight. I felt sorry for them having to eat all those salads....

Hope you aren't getting too bored with my garden shots...nothing else exciting happening. But come Sunday, after another round of Jubilations Dinner Theatre with our neighbour Joanne, we may have some on stage shots! Stay tuned!

Glad something likes this heat!

What a hot sticky night! I couldn't sleep, even with a fan circulating the air. I had to get up and just sit quietly by the window for a couple of hours before I could even relax. We hit a new record high of 32.9 for July 4 and today is going to be hotter. As an added bonus, we should be getting some boomers later this afternoon/evening. The poor cat & dog aren't going to like that and my flowers may take a beating. But...today they look gorgeous.

I thought we had a good weekend

It started on Friday for Joe with a company golf tournament. I still don't remember how he did but he came home with stuff!

On Saturday, we had plans with David...he met us and we all went out to the farmer's market. You can never have a bad day there, there were even a couple new booths which I will check out closer over the course of the summer. We picked up some garden fresh peas for Joseph, a foccacia for lunch and some suede booties, size 2 for Tic Tac. They didn't have the tasty baby carrots that Alex likes, yet.

Even before lunch, we got the message that Alcide was in town...didn't even know he was coming out...so got him the directions to the lil salmon house and got moving. Our plans for dinner out with Paula, David and the boys quickly turned in to a backyard BBQ. We had just as much fun but with more people. David even managed to stay awake until a decent hour! Jet lag is a killer.

Sunday we quickly cleaned up house, showed Alcide & Darrel the lay of the land, house wise and headed for Cow town. Joseph's school had a fund raiser at the casino...lucky us, we got to count the day's haul. I suppose it wouldn't be proper to comment any further but we did count a certain ex NHL's er money too! Got to bed around 3 am.

We then drove to the Beck's cottage and collected the camper. It was starting to get really hot and by the time we got home, it was downright uncomfortable. Even a cool shower wasn't refreshing.

Today is back to work and all the other things that come with day to day living. I hope no one complains, but it's hot dogs & potato chips for supper!

Happy Canada Day all!

Well you know what they say about the best laid plans.... sometimes they get even better.

David, Paula and the boys are in the city for appointments and the convention. Joe & I thought it would be nice to do supper out and get caught up on all the news tonight.

David arrived here after dropping the others off. We chatted and headed to the Farmer's Market where we got our goodies for lunch! Ah...and it was so ggooood! Got home to hear the phone message from Alcide... he's in town! We didn't even know he was coming this way, oh well.

So we aren't going out for supper, David is bringing his family back here...the travelers are starting to feel human again after a shower, clean clothes and a cold drink. The steaks are ready to go onto the barbie...and I'm in charge of salad and potatoes! The gang is almost all here...what a great country we live in. Our doors are always welcome to friends, new & old, and especially family!

And here are my July 1 red roses - 1 for me and 1 for you!