This was the company retreat weekend and each year they try and think of ways to build the team. You gain a whole new perspective when you are down in the mud with the CEO or one of the VP's!
Last year was the first annual company retreat, held at the Jasper Park Lodge - company picked up the tab for just about everything! They let us choose one of the following activities- fly fishing, horse back riding, white water rafting, golf or a nature walk. Joe & I did the fly fishing because we had never done that before. Very interesting and I won a fishing rod set-up! Great teacher, lots of charisma!.
After the weekend, upon review they found that some people more or less stayed in their little work cliques. So they changed things up for this year by pre-determining the race teams. No hanging out with your own group of work friends. It was a great way to learn something about another person and see if you could find that common ground to pull together in chaotic circumstances. We did...we weren't above trying to push the limits, hence the motorized rides!
It was great fun and we are all looking forward to next year's retreat. If the company meets their targets, the rumour is Hawaii! I best see about puppy sitter & a passport now!
Snippits of other challenges
Team Beige studying one of the word clues to exit the pit stop
Team Pink maneuvering their 2x4's to cross the tennis court
Canoeing across Lac Beauvert
White Monty building their tent with 3 members blindfolded. L-r Jen, Stu,Dan,'Berta's arm, Joe, Sally
Jen hardly got wet, unlike the others!
I think our secret was that although we were first to launch, we took the time to tape all the seams as well as the hand holes! It would have been fun to hang around and watch the boats sink, but we were dashing off to the finish line!
Cardboard box boat competition
Everyone started with the same supplies - large flatten cardboard box, roll of duct tape, floatation vest.
Dan steadying Jennifer as she settles into team White Monty's boat
Approaching the turn around buoy
Paddling home!
Profound
Never speak unless it improves on silence
Never move unless it improves on stillness
Never move unless it improves on stillness
I heard this last night during a tribute to the late great William Hutt (1920-2007). I'm not sure if this was attributed to him or if it was just his way of portraying those great Shakespearean characters of the Stratford Festival. This is so deep and profound it rattles your soul.
Jeff Foxworthy's view of Albertans
Joe emailed me this from the boss...thought it struck a chord ...hey, doesn't everyone want to be an Albertan?
Here's what Jeff Foxworthy (American comedian) has to say about
Albertans:
live in Alberta.
If someone in a Home Depot store offers you assistance and they don't
work there, you live in Alberta.
If you've worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you live in
Alberta.
If you've had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed
a wrong number, you live in Alberta. Joe did this just the other night!!!!!
If "Vacation" means going anywhere south of Edmonton for the weekend,
you live in Alberta .
If you measure distance in hours, you live in Alberta.
If you know several people who have hit a deer more than once, you
live in Alberta .
If you have switched from "heat" to "air conditioning" and back again
in the same day, you live in Alberta.
If you can drive 75 mph through 2 feet of snow during a raging
blizzard without flinching, you live in Alberta.
If you install security lights on your house and garage, but leave
both unlocked, you live in Alberta.
If you carry jumpers in your car and your wife knows how to use them,
you live in Alberta.
If you design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit, you
live in Alberta.
If driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled
with snow, you live in Alberta. Actually this is Edmonton's big secret on pothole repair!
If you know all 4 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter and
road construction, you live in Alberta.Isn't this the truth?!
If you have more miles on your snow blower than your car, you live in
Alberta.
If you find 10 degrees Fahrenheit "a little chilly", you live in
Alberta.
If you actually understand these jokes, and forward them to all your
Alberta friends, you live in Alberta.
Hoping to have the retreat pics soon
I couldn't read the disc of photos Joe brought home so we will try again today. In the meantime, here is a group shot of the employees that I received via email.
Photo compliments of Dianne Chow!
The Amazing Chase JPL 2007
Last year, we had various activities we could sign up for...we did the fly fishing. This year, there was only 1 activity planned, one that took a whole year to co-ordinate. It was The Amazing Chase as directed and executed by Delta Synergy Group.
The day began at breakfast where the seating plan was laid out by teams. As the brunch progressed and we got to know our team mates a bit better, you could feel the excitement level steadily build.
Basically it was similar to the TV show...there were yields,road blocks, team buffs,lots of racing and chaos, a bit of trickery & sabotage and ultimately 1 winning team. We were outfitted with a radio, map, water, first aid kit and best wishes.
To begin and leave the pit stop area, each team had to solve 8 of 12 word puzzles posted around the dining room. Once completed we got the next clue which directed us down to the boat house, where 3 members donned PFD, signed release waivers and paddled across Lac Beauvert and back. Facilitators were at every point to ensure no corners were cut.
The next clue had us sprinting across the lodge grounds in search of our next task. Using a GPS device, travel into a wooded area searching for a tent. Once this was returned to the group, 3 members were blind folded and instructed to erect said tent with only the vocal guidance of our team mates. To receive the next clue and move on, all team mates had to crawl into the tent and have their photo taken before repacking the tent back into it's container. BTW...we were the third team to arrive at this station to find we had been yielded and had to wait for the hourglass sand to run through.
The next clue indicated we were to head for the tennis courts. A wooden fence almost stopped Joe & I...we were the slowest runners...but we made the correction without losing too many steps. Here all team members had to traverse across the court without touching the pavement. Our tools, 2 2x4's and 12 wood block island which were pre-determined and placed on the court. This was quite a mental challenge to figure out the process, but once we had that done, it was just a matter of moving a person across, passing the 2x4's back and forth until all members had crossed. Here we picked up a lot of time, passing one whole team and cutting the lead margin down substantially on the other team that had been ahead of us.
With no time to go anything but grab your clue, gear and go we headed for the main road leading out of JPL. The young ones were way ahead of the +50 crowd when we realized one of our team mates was no where to be seen. But we kept putting one foot in front of the other. the next thing we knew, there appeared missing Dan in a Lodge van! We all piled in and drove the rest of the way to the next challenge, a couple of kilometers away. We had arrived first!
The challenge - hoist a team member up using ropes and a harness so they could recover the next clue with out touching the ground surrounding the clue case. Dexterity was the key and before you knew it, we were heading back for the lunch pit stop. Again, Joe and I were the slow pokes, so Dan flagged down a car with a visiting ON couple and begged us a ride. What great people they were, totally into this race thing!
We arrived first at the pit stop but as the other teams arrived, it was evident that we had targets on our backs because of the use of motorized vehicles. Teams left in the order and time differential that they arrived in. Just as we got the clue and signal to go, didn't some of the opposing team members grab Dan, ripped off his shoes and socks and high tale it out of there. But the clock was ticking...all to the loud cheers of the others. We finally got the shoes back and headed off to the Point.
This was a difficult clue in that there is a cabin named the Point as well as many points around the lake. We were passed by other teams at arriving at the proper location where we found we had to complete 2 tasks after waiting for our second yield to pass. The first, a tantric puzzle, the other, fill a leaky bucket using plastic cups. 3 of us started the puzzle while the others headed down to the lake. Again, we excelled and finished the puzzle quickly so we could help with the water.
Lunch time had proved to be a huge planning session for the others, and we weren't alone with a van to get us around the lodge. After being approved by our facilitator we got our clue and piled in and headed to another water location. We arrived first and yielded the beige team who was our closest competitor.
Our last challenge was using only a large packing box, a roll of duct tape and again a PFD, build a boat that would be captained by one out around a buoy 20' out and back. The company was there taking photos and of all the ones I want to see, is this one. being first we did our thing and succeeded fairly well but we heard stories of the different designs, good & bad! Once Jen returned from around the buoy, we received our final clue and again hit the missing shoes road block! Someone had hidden it along with our race pack in the shrubs. But we had them back withing a minute and were off!
We, the White Monty team (white for our buffs, Monty for our mode of transportation - Montana!), did arrive first, winning the competition and were on hand to greet the other teams as they clocked in. The talk is now all about the next repeat race...I think the targets will still be on our backs! To those interested, we would highly recommend this type of team building activity and this company. They had every aspect planned to a T, a very professional execution of a very crazy 6 hours.
The day began at breakfast where the seating plan was laid out by teams. As the brunch progressed and we got to know our team mates a bit better, you could feel the excitement level steadily build.
Basically it was similar to the TV show...there were yields,road blocks, team buffs,lots of racing and chaos, a bit of trickery & sabotage and ultimately 1 winning team. We were outfitted with a radio, map, water, first aid kit and best wishes.
To begin and leave the pit stop area, each team had to solve 8 of 12 word puzzles posted around the dining room. Once completed we got the next clue which directed us down to the boat house, where 3 members donned PFD, signed release waivers and paddled across Lac Beauvert and back. Facilitators were at every point to ensure no corners were cut.
The next clue had us sprinting across the lodge grounds in search of our next task. Using a GPS device, travel into a wooded area searching for a tent. Once this was returned to the group, 3 members were blind folded and instructed to erect said tent with only the vocal guidance of our team mates. To receive the next clue and move on, all team mates had to crawl into the tent and have their photo taken before repacking the tent back into it's container. BTW...we were the third team to arrive at this station to find we had been yielded and had to wait for the hourglass sand to run through.
The next clue indicated we were to head for the tennis courts. A wooden fence almost stopped Joe & I...we were the slowest runners...but we made the correction without losing too many steps. Here all team members had to traverse across the court without touching the pavement. Our tools, 2 2x4's and 12 wood block island which were pre-determined and placed on the court. This was quite a mental challenge to figure out the process, but once we had that done, it was just a matter of moving a person across, passing the 2x4's back and forth until all members had crossed. Here we picked up a lot of time, passing one whole team and cutting the lead margin down substantially on the other team that had been ahead of us.
With no time to go anything but grab your clue, gear and go we headed for the main road leading out of JPL. The young ones were way ahead of the +50 crowd when we realized one of our team mates was no where to be seen. But we kept putting one foot in front of the other. the next thing we knew, there appeared missing Dan in a Lodge van! We all piled in and drove the rest of the way to the next challenge, a couple of kilometers away. We had arrived first!
The challenge - hoist a team member up using ropes and a harness so they could recover the next clue with out touching the ground surrounding the clue case. Dexterity was the key and before you knew it, we were heading back for the lunch pit stop. Again, Joe and I were the slow pokes, so Dan flagged down a car with a visiting ON couple and begged us a ride. What great people they were, totally into this race thing!
We arrived first at the pit stop but as the other teams arrived, it was evident that we had targets on our backs because of the use of motorized vehicles. Teams left in the order and time differential that they arrived in. Just as we got the clue and signal to go, didn't some of the opposing team members grab Dan, ripped off his shoes and socks and high tale it out of there. But the clock was ticking...all to the loud cheers of the others. We finally got the shoes back and headed off to the Point.
This was a difficult clue in that there is a cabin named the Point as well as many points around the lake. We were passed by other teams at arriving at the proper location where we found we had to complete 2 tasks after waiting for our second yield to pass. The first, a tantric puzzle, the other, fill a leaky bucket using plastic cups. 3 of us started the puzzle while the others headed down to the lake. Again, we excelled and finished the puzzle quickly so we could help with the water.
Lunch time had proved to be a huge planning session for the others, and we weren't alone with a van to get us around the lodge. After being approved by our facilitator we got our clue and piled in and headed to another water location. We arrived first and yielded the beige team who was our closest competitor.
Our last challenge was using only a large packing box, a roll of duct tape and again a PFD, build a boat that would be captained by one out around a buoy 20' out and back. The company was there taking photos and of all the ones I want to see, is this one. being first we did our thing and succeeded fairly well but we heard stories of the different designs, good & bad! Once Jen returned from around the buoy, we received our final clue and again hit the missing shoes road block! Someone had hidden it along with our race pack in the shrubs. But we had them back withing a minute and were off!
We, the White Monty team (white for our buffs, Monty for our mode of transportation - Montana!), did arrive first, winning the competition and were on hand to greet the other teams as they clocked in. The talk is now all about the next repeat race...I think the targets will still be on our backs! To those interested, we would highly recommend this type of team building activity and this company. They had every aspect planned to a T, a very professional execution of a very crazy 6 hours.
Back row - Glen, Wendy, John Dampf (posing with the winners), Sally, Dan, Joe, StuFront row - Jennifer, Krista, Mary-Ellen, 'Berta
Banff & Jasper National Parks
Unlike last year when it rained the whole trip into Jasper, this time around the weather was gorgeous. Warm enough that when you stepped out of the car, you could appreciate the cool mountain air. Here are a few of the sights we seen along our journey.
Standing at the lookout over the switchback.
Athabasca Falls
Joe at the switchback
Columbia Icefield glacier
Mountain goat, just sitting on the median posing for photos!
Lunch time along the road side
Traffic stop for Mommy and baby!
Without a doubt, this has to be the most definitive Canadian photograph I have taken. I was standing on the back patio of the Jasper Park Lodge overlooking Lac Beauvert. What a great weekend so close to Canada Day.
Pass the cake please!
Seems we are approaching another busy birthday cluster. So with all the fanfare I can manage this morning HAPPY BIRTHDAY toAaron's Grandma Tarr - who celebrates June 28
Jeremy - who turns 21 on June 29
Phoenix - who turns 1 on July 1
Brenda H - who is a year prettier on July 1
Brenda A - who is a year prettier on July 2
David - who is a year smarter on July 4
I do know how old everyone is but after a certain point, does it matter? No, unless it's a milestone like the big 5-0! I hope everyone has a great day.
Well Done Joe!
Joe was awarded the Operational Excellence Award 2007.
John Dampf, President, Steve Sinclair VP Operations, Sanjiv, VP Finances, Joe, Barrie Shibley, VP Aboriginal Relations
Special thanks to Mr. Larry Chow for the photographs taken during the retreat weekend.
John Dampf, President, Steve Sinclair VP Operations, Sanjiv, VP Finances, Joe, Barrie Shibley, VP Aboriginal Relations
Special thanks to Mr. Larry Chow for the photographs taken during the retreat weekend.
They came, they saw and they left!
We had a lovely if not whirlwind visit with Gary & Brian! They snuck in the wee hours after the Tim McGraw/Faith Hill concert. Our attack dog Cody didn't even lift an eyebrow! She is not officially in full retirement as our protector!
Wednesday was quiet, lots of talking and catching up. A quick tour of our town to point out the growth potential and then into St Albert to the book store! Yup...we bought books! Exciting, right?!!!!
Supper was BBQ steak and all the fixings with carrot cake and cream cheese icing for dessert. I'm still using up the left over cream cheese from the wedding! Yum!
This morning Joe and the boys headed out. Joe to work and the guys back home. Someone has to work this afternoon @ 5! we'll be heading south for a quick visit before swinging north to Jasper for the retreat.
Have a great weekend all! Updates & photos on Monday!
Wednesday was quiet, lots of talking and catching up. A quick tour of our town to point out the growth potential and then into St Albert to the book store! Yup...we bought books! Exciting, right?!!!!
Supper was BBQ steak and all the fixings with carrot cake and cream cheese icing for dessert. I'm still using up the left over cream cheese from the wedding! Yum!
This morning Joe and the boys headed out. Joe to work and the guys back home. Someone has to work this afternoon @ 5! we'll be heading south for a quick visit before swinging north to Jasper for the retreat.
Have a great weekend all! Updates & photos on Monday!
The call you don't want to receive
Our trip east last year was made doubly special last night when we learned of Lorenzo's passing. He was Joe's cousin, friend and best man at our wedding in 1975. We hadn't seen him in many years,each of us busy with our work , family & lives. The reunion at the wedding was that much sweeter because he was there with us.The best pictures as always in your mind
And the best memories are forever in your heart.
Rest in Peace
My garden delights!
Frustration last night but only 10 minutes work today!
Was it because we were tired, and the day was so gloomy? Or was it because we just weren't focused? Anyways, it's up! Now a quick dump run and then we can fill it up!
Another little project
We started putting up the shed we got from Lesley & Aaron only to find that where we are putting it, there's a slight incline so the doors only barely open while rubbing the grass hard. So we have to built a small deck to raise it up. Hopefully the weather co-operates cuz we have to un-build the shed, male the deck and start all over again! The good news, it's all doable in a short period of time if there's no lightening!
We had the pleasure of Lucie and Adrienne's company overnight. Adrienne celebrated her birthday with a shopping spree at WEM! Lucky girl. They are also planning a Jasper get away next weekend so we may be able to meet up for a coffee/drink.
For those who don't know, Lesley is having computer issues and won't be up and running until later today. I'm sure she will have lots to blog about. Me, I've run out of interesting stuff to mention before I even started this post! For that, I'm truly sorry!
We had the pleasure of Lucie and Adrienne's company overnight. Adrienne celebrated her birthday with a shopping spree at WEM! Lucky girl. They are also planning a Jasper get away next weekend so we may be able to meet up for a coffee/drink.
For those who don't know, Lesley is having computer issues and won't be up and running until later today. I'm sure she will have lots to blog about. Me, I've run out of interesting stuff to mention before I even started this post! For that, I'm truly sorry!
Four's - yesterday, today & tomorrow
Four new things I have learned or experienced in the past four years and would like to learn or experience in the next four years is the Meme from Lesley
June 2003 - Family
I had just retired from work at PC, doing a job that I was very well suited for and thoroughly enjoyed. I left because I had some huge family challenges ahead that required my full undivided attention. I had to clear out Dad's house, prep and finally sell it. That was a huge undertaking when you consider I live 7 hours away! I ended up driving down on Monday-Thursday/Friday with my dog & my camping gear and go back home for the weekend to relax and most importantly, decompress. I was fortunate, did what I had to do to sell the house by late August. I don't have much else in memories, just that Joe and the all the kids were there if and when I needed them.
June 2007 - Family
I'm enjoying myself, being able to do little projects for the family - sewing etc. Some days I wish I lived closer to the girls, like when the boys broke their arms, or when Heather is by herself while Jeff is away. However I do enjoy not knowing all the petty little day to day things that crop up. We each need that comfort zone which makes togethers all that more sweet.
June 2011 - Family
The grandboys will be coming into their own personality wise. Maybe there will be a granddaughter too! Joe will probably still be working because he's just so good at what he does & he enjoys it. Perhaps though the work will be seasonal opening up larger time off to do things with the kids.
June 2003 - Self
I was fresh from the corporate environment and it showed. Confident, dependable with a can do attitude. I could do anything I set my mind to and some found that intimidating.
June 2007 - Self
I'm much more relaxed than I have ever been. Still confident but not in your face kind of way. I'm much more approachable and still enjoy taking on new challenges.
June 2011 - Self
I would like to continue my journey into becoming a person at peace with her life, family and situation. Hopefully those around me will have found a sense of peace and relaxation.
June 2003 - Community
In the past, I've always been involved with my community, doing volunteer work in some capacity. this time is different. Since Mom's passing, I'm had my own internal struggles to work through while trying to do my best for Dad and my siblings. Although i tried to get on board with a project I believed in, I just couldn't give up enough of myself. It wasn't fair to them or to me.
June 2007 - Community
I'm still sitting on the side lines but I speak up to the people that can make a difference when the need arises. I'm not sure if it's a good thing that our town hall offices are over the library or not. I do go to the library frequently! It doesn't take more than a couple of minutes to zip upstairs and have a chat!
June 2011 - Community
I'd love to be doing something worthwhile in a larger way. Not monetary, although I do miss a work environment, but something to make a difference in our town or its people. Perhaps volunteer with a reading program. Contribute to the local newspapers. I haven't done that in years...well no I stand corrected...I did have a spell when I had an editor in my email address book!
2003 - Friends
Those who know me know I don't need a slew of people around me. Joe, our careers and I wouldn't have lasted as long as we did if I were that type. During this time, my friends besides the immediate family had to be all the professionals that I surrounded myself with - lawyers, clerks, administrators, Realtors, bankers...the list goes on. I even got on friendly terms with a clerk at the Med Hat garbage dump!
2007 - Friends
I still have a select group of friends and a long list of acquaintances. Some have crossed the lines, both ways. One of my supply drivers from my past career is now a friend through Jo next door. Other business people I know still remember me and I am so moved by that. I have friends from past military postings and a few from high school. I am so lucky. I always try to be the best I am to everyone and leave a great first, second impression.
2011 - Friends
I don't expect there to be much in the way of changes to my circle of friends, perhaps grow a bit larger. Joe will lead the group and I think we will all age beautifully together. As we go through our lives, I find that friendships web and flow as our experiences mold us into who we are. We grow closer and then apart until the next wave that brings us back. Through Facebook, I have been able to reconnect with some people from the past and I would love to be able to host a visit from my dear friend Peggy & Emile. Although we don't see each other for decades, much like Bren, when we do, it's just like yesterday! When it feels good, you know you are in the company of a friend.
So now I think I'm supposed to tag 4 others to continue this journey. That is going to be a tough decision. Between those in the family who are pregnant, just moving, just had a baby, just went back to work...the list is pretty short. But here goes nothing!
June 2003 - Family
I had just retired from work at PC, doing a job that I was very well suited for and thoroughly enjoyed. I left because I had some huge family challenges ahead that required my full undivided attention. I had to clear out Dad's house, prep and finally sell it. That was a huge undertaking when you consider I live 7 hours away! I ended up driving down on Monday-Thursday/Friday with my dog & my camping gear and go back home for the weekend to relax and most importantly, decompress. I was fortunate, did what I had to do to sell the house by late August. I don't have much else in memories, just that Joe and the all the kids were there if and when I needed them.
June 2007 - Family
I'm enjoying myself, being able to do little projects for the family - sewing etc. Some days I wish I lived closer to the girls, like when the boys broke their arms, or when Heather is by herself while Jeff is away. However I do enjoy not knowing all the petty little day to day things that crop up. We each need that comfort zone which makes togethers all that more sweet.
June 2011 - Family
The grandboys will be coming into their own personality wise. Maybe there will be a granddaughter too! Joe will probably still be working because he's just so good at what he does & he enjoys it. Perhaps though the work will be seasonal opening up larger time off to do things with the kids.
June 2003 - Self
I was fresh from the corporate environment and it showed. Confident, dependable with a can do attitude. I could do anything I set my mind to and some found that intimidating.
June 2007 - Self
I'm much more relaxed than I have ever been. Still confident but not in your face kind of way. I'm much more approachable and still enjoy taking on new challenges.
June 2011 - Self
I would like to continue my journey into becoming a person at peace with her life, family and situation. Hopefully those around me will have found a sense of peace and relaxation.
June 2003 - Community
In the past, I've always been involved with my community, doing volunteer work in some capacity. this time is different. Since Mom's passing, I'm had my own internal struggles to work through while trying to do my best for Dad and my siblings. Although i tried to get on board with a project I believed in, I just couldn't give up enough of myself. It wasn't fair to them or to me.
June 2007 - Community
I'm still sitting on the side lines but I speak up to the people that can make a difference when the need arises. I'm not sure if it's a good thing that our town hall offices are over the library or not. I do go to the library frequently! It doesn't take more than a couple of minutes to zip upstairs and have a chat!
June 2011 - Community
I'd love to be doing something worthwhile in a larger way. Not monetary, although I do miss a work environment, but something to make a difference in our town or its people. Perhaps volunteer with a reading program. Contribute to the local newspapers. I haven't done that in years...well no I stand corrected...I did have a spell when I had an editor in my email address book!
2003 - Friends
Those who know me know I don't need a slew of people around me. Joe, our careers and I wouldn't have lasted as long as we did if I were that type. During this time, my friends besides the immediate family had to be all the professionals that I surrounded myself with - lawyers, clerks, administrators, Realtors, bankers...the list goes on. I even got on friendly terms with a clerk at the Med Hat garbage dump!
2007 - Friends
I still have a select group of friends and a long list of acquaintances. Some have crossed the lines, both ways. One of my supply drivers from my past career is now a friend through Jo next door. Other business people I know still remember me and I am so moved by that. I have friends from past military postings and a few from high school. I am so lucky. I always try to be the best I am to everyone and leave a great first, second impression.
2011 - Friends
I don't expect there to be much in the way of changes to my circle of friends, perhaps grow a bit larger. Joe will lead the group and I think we will all age beautifully together. As we go through our lives, I find that friendships web and flow as our experiences mold us into who we are. We grow closer and then apart until the next wave that brings us back. Through Facebook, I have been able to reconnect with some people from the past and I would love to be able to host a visit from my dear friend Peggy & Emile. Although we don't see each other for decades, much like Bren, when we do, it's just like yesterday! When it feels good, you know you are in the company of a friend.
So now I think I'm supposed to tag 4 others to continue this journey. That is going to be a tough decision. Between those in the family who are pregnant, just moving, just had a baby, just went back to work...the list is pretty short. But here goes nothing!
Surviving - how about you?
Joe's birthday was quiet. We finally ate the 3 day to cook roast pork with smashed spuds, gravy and green beans. Jo next door gave Joe a golf pass - woot woot and I got Joe a smoothie blender for the bar. Heather sent along some tunes...a Stomping Tom concert as well as some Neil Diamond favorites. Joe has lots of tunes to trot along to! I can't say run because it's half fast walk half slow jog - trot! Nothing yet from the Beck's but I know there's something in the works for next week, even if it's just puppy sitting.
We tried the smoothie machine yesterday after I got more fruit...and I have to tell you...it sure beats a commercial one! Joe did up banana strawberry and was it good! Now to keep my eyes peeled for great fruit & prices! I'm hoping to try a different one before the weekend so we can dazzle Lucie. I know she really likes the E*rl's peach Bellini but it's so hard to find frozen peaches and fresh aren't in season yet. With all the syrup, I think canned ones would be a disaster!
Yesterday Joe and company cooked up hamburgers and hot dogs for a local native band celebrating treaty day. I think the head count was ~ 1800...that's a lot of burger flipping! Today he's doing the company golf thing so the city office crew can get to know the local town gang. Jo next door is having her very first golf game...I think we are going to do friendly best ball with her & Ken some weekend when we are all available.
I hope all the Dad's have a fabulous Father's Day...you all deserve it. Enjoy the crunchy scrambled eggs and burnt toast too! It's the thoughts that count!
We tried the smoothie machine yesterday after I got more fruit...and I have to tell you...it sure beats a commercial one! Joe did up banana strawberry and was it good! Now to keep my eyes peeled for great fruit & prices! I'm hoping to try a different one before the weekend so we can dazzle Lucie. I know she really likes the E*rl's peach Bellini but it's so hard to find frozen peaches and fresh aren't in season yet. With all the syrup, I think canned ones would be a disaster!
Yesterday Joe and company cooked up hamburgers and hot dogs for a local native band celebrating treaty day. I think the head count was ~ 1800...that's a lot of burger flipping! Today he's doing the company golf thing so the city office crew can get to know the local town gang. Jo next door is having her very first golf game...I think we are going to do friendly best ball with her & Ken some weekend when we are all available.
I hope all the Dad's have a fabulous Father's Day...you all deserve it. Enjoy the crunchy scrambled eggs and burnt toast too! It's the thoughts that count!
Why me?
I have a month long challenge going with Joe...inches & lbs...winner gets something real nice! Joe is down 3 and I'm bloating and am up 3...so he's head by 6 already on day 4! Maybe if I work harder I'll get luckier!
So today I mowed the front and back and if that wasn't enough I pulled EVERYTHING out of the greenhouse! I had dropped out outdoor carpet down last fall to help kill the grass and it did a great job. Only had a bit around the edges to finish up with some K*ll*x. I let that settle down while I had lunch.
I loaded everything back in after prepping the floor for the gravel or whatever is going down. Maybe this weekend if the weather permits we'll get a load. Joe can watch me shovel and haul it by wheel barrow while he enjoys a leisurely Father's Day! Maybe eat a few bon-bons! Is that what they mean by sabotage?
Company is coming - Lucie & birthday girl Adrienne will be here Saturday evening after a day of shopping at WEM. Tuesday my nephew Brian is coming up for a visit while his brother Gary & girlfriend take in the Tim McGraw/Faith Hill concert. Gary and his lady will be over Wednesday for a quick stay. Thursday we head south to take in Joseph's graduation ceremony at school. Lesley has kindly offered to Cody sit for us while we head to jasper Friday for the company's annual retreat. Rumour has it there's a version of the Amazing Race on for Saturday. Sounds better than Surv*vor - no bugs and leaf TP for this townie!
If nothing else, I have lots of things to keep my mind off the scales! Such is my life!
So today I mowed the front and back and if that wasn't enough I pulled EVERYTHING out of the greenhouse! I had dropped out outdoor carpet down last fall to help kill the grass and it did a great job. Only had a bit around the edges to finish up with some K*ll*x. I let that settle down while I had lunch.
I loaded everything back in after prepping the floor for the gravel or whatever is going down. Maybe this weekend if the weather permits we'll get a load. Joe can watch me shovel and haul it by wheel barrow while he enjoys a leisurely Father's Day! Maybe eat a few bon-bons! Is that what they mean by sabotage?
Company is coming - Lucie & birthday girl Adrienne will be here Saturday evening after a day of shopping at WEM. Tuesday my nephew Brian is coming up for a visit while his brother Gary & girlfriend take in the Tim McGraw/Faith Hill concert. Gary and his lady will be over Wednesday for a quick stay. Thursday we head south to take in Joseph's graduation ceremony at school. Lesley has kindly offered to Cody sit for us while we head to jasper Friday for the company's annual retreat. Rumour has it there's a version of the Amazing Race on for Saturday. Sounds better than Surv*vor - no bugs and leaf TP for this townie!
If nothing else, I have lots of things to keep my mind off the scales! Such is my life!
We're a big town now!
Joe called me on his way out of town to say that this was the first time he didn't have to stop at the Sobey's & Zoo corner. They activated the traffic lights yesterday afternoon without any fanfare and he had a green light. Seems someone didn't put in the request to turn these ligths on until a wekk or so ago! DU*H! And we have civic elections this October!
Some things aren't meant to be!
It all started Monday. In the morning I took a roast out of the freezer, had it in a sink of cold water to defrost. By the time came to throw things into the oven, I had the surprise of my life...it was still frozen solid. OK, need another idea for supper.
Put roast in the frig for the night, have it Tuesday night...BBQ burgers for Monday supper along with a Caesar salad. Very nice.
Yesterday I pull this roast out again and parts of it are still FROZEN!!!!! I have to cook it so into the oven it goes. Almost 3 hours later it's still frozen in the middle when Joe gets home!!!! Why am I having such a hard time cooking supper?
Joe cuts it in half and says it has at least another 2 hours to cook. By this time I'm starved...off to the store we go for grill cheese and soup supplies. Finally at 10pm, the roast is cooked and cooled enough to slice for Wednesday's supper.
I don't feel like eating it now! This has to be a test of some sort and I'm not doing well on it. I was planning on a nice BBQ steak/baked potato, grilled mushrooms supper for Joe's birthday dinner. Now I guess we're having leftovers. Sorry dear!
Despite this, I wish you a very Happy Birthday Joe! You deserve all the good wishes, emails & phone calls and so much more!
Put roast in the frig for the night, have it Tuesday night...BBQ burgers for Monday supper along with a Caesar salad. Very nice.
Yesterday I pull this roast out again and parts of it are still FROZEN!!!!! I have to cook it so into the oven it goes. Almost 3 hours later it's still frozen in the middle when Joe gets home!!!! Why am I having such a hard time cooking supper?
Joe cuts it in half and says it has at least another 2 hours to cook. By this time I'm starved...off to the store we go for grill cheese and soup supplies. Finally at 10pm, the roast is cooked and cooled enough to slice for Wednesday's supper.
I don't feel like eating it now! This has to be a test of some sort and I'm not doing well on it. I was planning on a nice BBQ steak/baked potato, grilled mushrooms supper for Joe's birthday dinner. Now I guess we're having leftovers. Sorry dear!
Despite this, I wish you a very Happy Birthday Joe! You deserve all the good wishes, emails & phone calls and so much more!
| In 1956 (the year you were born) |
 Dwight Eisenhower is president of the US 101 Southern Congressmen call for massive resistance to the Supreme Court desegregation rulings Italian liner Andrea Doria collides with Swedish liner Stockholm and sinks of Nantucket Island An anti-Communist revolt in Hungary is crushed by Soviet troops and tanks Suez crisis occurs in the Middle East Elvis Presley enters the music charts for the first time, with "Heartbreak Hotel". Mel Gibson, Bill Maher, Joe Montana, Tom Hanks, and Larry Bird born New York Yankees win the World Series New York Giants win the NFL championship Montreal Canadiens win the Stanley Cup Howl and Other Poems by Allen Ginsberg is published Elvis Presley appears on The Ed Sullivan Show The Price is Right game show premieres |
Really? What do you think?
| This Is My Life, Rated | |
| Life: |  8.2 |
| Mind: | 7.5 |
| Body: |  6.4 |
| Spirit: | 7.6 |
| Friends/Family: | 7.7 |
| Love: |  9.1 |
| Finance: | 7.5 |
| Take the Rate My Life Quiz | |
A bit of this & that
Cheryl, I love your comment about life being full of wonders before our very eyes. I do believe that the guys would see those men from a totally different view point!
We are attempting to change our view point - on many levels. Nutrition wise, we are going back to basics and eating to live not live to eat. A celebration is nice but not every day of the week! I'll still do a special birthday dinner for Joe. He wouldn't like it if I cut things out just before his big day!
I'm working on getting more physically active every day on purpose. I'll call this "Go Me". That
s not my saying, I borrowed it...if you know where, drop me a line/comment! I have challenged Joe to a 30 day get real project. The winner will be getting something very nice! Lesley knows about these challenges, we did 3. I bought Les a swimsuit, she got my special undies and the book one was a draw. Not sure if I can do a separate one with Heather, I'll think about it and we'll talk.
Financially we are going to go back to weekly allowances and paying for everything with cash...no debit cards! The real challenge is grocery shopping, especially when Joe comes along. He can look at a huge chunk of meat and cut it down into many great meals at little cost. We tried this for about a month late winter and it worked very well. We may have trouble over the summer with holidays, and company but we'll give it an honest go. The reason behind this is to become more aware of where our hard money is going. Retirement is in the offing and we can't depend on anyone but ourselves.
For a fun challenge - cuz all work and no play is not good for a relationship, we are trying out the idea of weekly cheap dates - keep everything under $20 total for dinner and some sort of entertainment. We'll take turns planning this. Last night was Joe's debut - Scrabble, cold cuts, cheese, baguette and homemade salsa. I see some picnics & dart nights in our future!
Does anyone read/understand those little pointers about GTD etc? If not, let me know and I'll stop including them. I just find the concept exciting and life changing. It's hard to ignore something when 2 minutes of effort will address the problem and I can clear that from my next action list and move more towards 'mind like water'.
Hope everyone has a great Sunday! Looking forward to photos from Les & gang from the weekend of painting!
We are attempting to change our view point - on many levels. Nutrition wise, we are going back to basics and eating to live not live to eat. A celebration is nice but not every day of the week! I'll still do a special birthday dinner for Joe. He wouldn't like it if I cut things out just before his big day!
I'm working on getting more physically active every day on purpose. I'll call this "Go Me". That
s not my saying, I borrowed it...if you know where, drop me a line/comment! I have challenged Joe to a 30 day get real project. The winner will be getting something very nice! Lesley knows about these challenges, we did 3. I bought Les a swimsuit, she got my special undies and the book one was a draw. Not sure if I can do a separate one with Heather, I'll think about it and we'll talk.
Financially we are going to go back to weekly allowances and paying for everything with cash...no debit cards! The real challenge is grocery shopping, especially when Joe comes along. He can look at a huge chunk of meat and cut it down into many great meals at little cost. We tried this for about a month late winter and it worked very well. We may have trouble over the summer with holidays, and company but we'll give it an honest go. The reason behind this is to become more aware of where our hard money is going. Retirement is in the offing and we can't depend on anyone but ourselves.
For a fun challenge - cuz all work and no play is not good for a relationship, we are trying out the idea of weekly cheap dates - keep everything under $20 total for dinner and some sort of entertainment. We'll take turns planning this. Last night was Joe's debut - Scrabble, cold cuts, cheese, baguette and homemade salsa. I see some picnics & dart nights in our future!
Does anyone read/understand those little pointers about GTD etc? If not, let me know and I'll stop including them. I just find the concept exciting and life changing. It's hard to ignore something when 2 minutes of effort will address the problem and I can clear that from my next action list and move more towards 'mind like water'.
Hope everyone has a great Sunday! Looking forward to photos from Les & gang from the weekend of painting!
This is deep!
I just read...can't remember the site...this and thought it's brilliant!
Don't think "Where can I put this?"
Think "Where can I find this?"
This can apply to almost everything we do from filing household papers to putting away seasonal clothes. Would this change your way at looking at what you routinely do?
Don't think "Where can I put this?"
Think "Where can I find this?"
Something's in the air!
With a quiet house while Joe is away on business - OK, golf business! - I've had time to think and reflect on where I am and where I want to go.
Now it seems the floodgates are wide open and thoughts are crashing in, getting my mojo going. Where to start is the question. Obviously I have to run all these ideas or brainwaves by the Big Guy and see if they are flashes of brilliance or something that should not see the light of day! Obviously if the parts that affect him don't go over well, I'll have to reaccess. Hmmm...when's the next away trip? I seem to do some of my deepest thinking alone.
Girls, don't panic, I'm not running off to join the circus or anything else, just thinking a few small but crucial changes are in my/our future. And no, we won't be spending more of your inheritance! Call it "Checking back into Life". I find I have been gliding for too long and not flapping like a duck. Stay tuned, perhaps you'll be able to discern some subtle changes, or not.
Now it seems the floodgates are wide open and thoughts are crashing in, getting my mojo going. Where to start is the question. Obviously I have to run all these ideas or brainwaves by the Big Guy and see if they are flashes of brilliance or something that should not see the light of day! Obviously if the parts that affect him don't go over well, I'll have to reaccess. Hmmm...when's the next away trip? I seem to do some of my deepest thinking alone.
Girls, don't panic, I'm not running off to join the circus or anything else, just thinking a few small but crucial changes are in my/our future. And no, we won't be spending more of your inheritance! Call it "Checking back into Life". I find I have been gliding for too long and not flapping like a duck. Stay tuned, perhaps you'll be able to discern some subtle changes, or not.
Now if this doesn't get tongues wagging and comments flying, I don't know what will. Just remember the old adage -
A change is as good as a rest
Just can't seem to get moving in the right direction
Don't get me wrong, I love my backyard...but I can't stand to sit and relax when there is so much chaos happening!
The A frame shed is down and gone. But we now have to find a permanent site for the satellite dish. In the meanwhile it's sitting just so on our picnic table. Can't move it because there goes the reception! Where the table is, I want to clean up the deck and put the Adirondack chairs so we can enjoy the sun and gardens. So the chairs and settee are sitting at the back of the deck in total shade by 10 am!
Where the new shed is going, are a couple of forsythias, which need to be transplanted. There's a few choices spots where they can go once they are up. But did I mention my sore back?
Since that injury, it doesn't take much to set it off and I'm in discomfort for days. I try real hard not to get into that vicious cycle of meds but...the odd day/night I do need some relief. My back hurts now because of all the digging I've been doing. One of my shade gardens is now a full sun garden sans shed! So everything had to be moved.
Also moved, actually removed are the Noma lights that were hardwired under the tree. So they came up, 3 wheel barrows of mulch removed and relocated, landscape cloth up and the soil underneath all turned and fluffed up. I replanted that bed yesterday.
I'm tired....this is almost too much work which is why we won't be replacing the newly exposed deck until late this fall or early spring.
Well I should get back at it and do some prep work on those shrubs. BTW - I'm not really complaining, I'm bragging while sitting down for a wee rest! Come on, grab a shovel!
The A frame shed is down and gone. But we now have to find a permanent site for the satellite dish. In the meanwhile it's sitting just so on our picnic table. Can't move it because there goes the reception! Where the table is, I want to clean up the deck and put the Adirondack chairs so we can enjoy the sun and gardens. So the chairs and settee are sitting at the back of the deck in total shade by 10 am!
Where the new shed is going, are a couple of forsythias, which need to be transplanted. There's a few choices spots where they can go once they are up. But did I mention my sore back?
Since that injury, it doesn't take much to set it off and I'm in discomfort for days. I try real hard not to get into that vicious cycle of meds but...the odd day/night I do need some relief. My back hurts now because of all the digging I've been doing. One of my shade gardens is now a full sun garden sans shed! So everything had to be moved.
Also moved, actually removed are the Noma lights that were hardwired under the tree. So they came up, 3 wheel barrows of mulch removed and relocated, landscape cloth up and the soil underneath all turned and fluffed up. I replanted that bed yesterday.
I'm tired....this is almost too much work which is why we won't be replacing the newly exposed deck until late this fall or early spring.
Well I should get back at it and do some prep work on those shrubs. BTW - I'm not really complaining, I'm bragging while sitting down for a wee rest! Come on, grab a shovel!
Benvenuto alla mia vigna!
Just to challenge ourselves, we planted a hardy variety of native Manitoba grapes in 2005. I was happy they survived the first winter. Last summer we had lots of growth, no signs of fruit but we enjoyed the shape and colour of the grape leaves as it wound its way up the trellis. This past winter was especially harsh and I had doubts that anything would come up. Well surprise surprise! June 4 and we have several clusters of little green grapes. Now to get my Lucille Ball outfit and a wood barrel ready for the stomping of the grapes this fall! Cheers!
Boys will be boys no matter what!
You know the saying...You can't keep a good man down...well here's proof!
We stopped in to see for ourselves that both boys still had both arms, 1 good, 1 not so good. They each coped in a different way, one quiet and shy, the other ready for a wrestling match. After a quick fuss, and an ice cream drumstick bribery to heal quickly, we turn our attention to Mommy who had been stressed just a bit. And then it started...Thing 1 said those infamous words..."the claw" and it was game on. Joe used to play with the girls with his claw hand and they would run about squealing in mock terror. Well these boys play it a bit differently but same effect! It was a happy sight, seeing them forget about their injuries and just being a kid again!
Hopefully everyone gets back into a comfortable routine and Mommy & Daddy get so well deserved rest. Parenting can be so hard, but so worthwhile!
Happy Birthday Dad!
I never knew 81 could look so good!
Although today is officially Dad's birthday, we celebrated Saturday at our campsite. We were joined by Lynn, her beau Danny and Brian. Gary was helping a friend move. We had a cold supper of roast chicken, ham, salads, rolls and strawberry shortcake along with the prerequisite beer. The temperatures are hovering around the 30 mark so no one wanted to be in the kitchen! We were joined by Lynn, her beau Danny as well as Brian. It was a very nice evening and we did manage to keep Dad out past his curfew! Oops, but what are they going to do???? I think Dad enjoyed being a bit of a rebel last night. We'll have to make a return trip before the next birthday because it was that much fun!Happy Birthday Dad!
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