Hi Polly Pals,
The journey has taken a new twist. My dad has declined rapidly since I saw him in September. I'm now praying he will stay with us until I get to Ireland on Wednesday next. Prayers and good wishes will not go to waste! To be honest, I was expecting this, and the way the planets were playing out, I was braced for sudden upheaval. Yesterday I was planning our christmas party, and today planning for dad's funeral. A bit surreal, and I know it will not hit me until I get to Ireland. On the positive side, I will have Claudia travel with me, and Ali and Victoria will look after Kevin and the animal kids until we return d.v.
Keeping with the positive train of thought, I had a great visit with dad in September. He looked at me and said "I know who you are. I love you". We had a lovely visit and I feel so grateful for that. We can always fool ourselves here in Canada and think he is still well, and busy gardening over in Ireland, and we'll be none the wiser! Right? Like most men, dad didn't really like talking on the phone. We'd chat for a few minutes and then he'd say "I'll put you on to your mother now, and you can tell her all the news and she'll tell me...God bless...when will we see you again?"
You'd never know...it's all in God's hands now. Dad could rally round, and it's not beyond a miracle! It's at times like this I find my faith in God comes in really handy, and my firm belief that our loved ones never leave us... In fact, I'll probably feel his spirit even closer.
Have a great Christmas, and we'll touch base before too long again!
Patricia xxx
Friday, November 23, 2012
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
PLANETARY PAIN
Last week was one wacky and wickedly weird week. It was truly nasty, but hey! I'm still standing - just about...I think?
Monday 11th - Fell on newly cleaned wooden floor in my boudoir - OUCH!
I banged my head off the floor, hurt my back, sides, but especially my poor head!
Tuesday 12th - Rushing to an appointment, I caught my hand in the office door.
The pain was worse than childbirth - and I didn't need to rush because the doc. was late!
Wednesday 13th - Reaching for a pen that fell from my hand, and trying to stop a glass of water from spilling, I landed awkwardly and ended up with a purple bruise on my thigh, the size of a beetroot.
Thursday 14th - Slipped on the stairs (happens when backless slipper falls off!!) Now my middle finger is out of action - I wouldn't mind but it's my busiest finger haha!! I was rushing for more pain - MAMMOGRAM - the mother and father of all pain!! The nurse doing the x-rays was telling me about her really annoying neighbour who lived in the condo above her, and how since they changed from carpet to wooden floor, the noise was unbearable and then suddenly the way she worked that machine, I felt like reminding her I was not her neighbour! I roared. "Take a deep breath it's only 40 seconds" she laughed - 40 seconds that felt like 40 minutes!
Friday 15th - I caught my trouser leg in the number plate of Kevin's car - weird.
There was a big rrrippppppp - just the trousers, and not my leg - thankfully!
It's really not like me to be SO accident-prone. I decided to have a pow-wow with the planetary gods to see what the dickens they were up. Sure enough, I had my 'aha' moment. Saturn the 'pain planet' (internal and external) was having a major head-on with Uranus (the planet of sudden unexpected happenings) in the sign of Aries, a very accident-prone sign, which rules the 'head' area of the body. Astrologically speaking, that sure explained things for me. In the circumstances, it kinda made sense, even if I didn't like it. If this was happening to a client, I would have advised "Pay attention this week and SLOW down".
If I knew that in advance of the pain, could I have done something to eliminate it? Now that's the BIG question. I deffo heffo need to listen to the celestial sages. No rushin' - especially when the titans are clashing! Everything is a question of timing, and being in the moment - that is for sure! I think the BIG lesson for me last week was to live in the NOW - and to pay attention!
No Pain No Gain - right?
Choo Choo for now!
Patricia xxx
Monday 11th - Fell on newly cleaned wooden floor in my boudoir - OUCH!
I banged my head off the floor, hurt my back, sides, but especially my poor head!
Tuesday 12th - Rushing to an appointment, I caught my hand in the office door.
The pain was worse than childbirth - and I didn't need to rush because the doc. was late!
Wednesday 13th - Reaching for a pen that fell from my hand, and trying to stop a glass of water from spilling, I landed awkwardly and ended up with a purple bruise on my thigh, the size of a beetroot.
Thursday 14th - Slipped on the stairs (happens when backless slipper falls off!!) Now my middle finger is out of action - I wouldn't mind but it's my busiest finger haha!! I was rushing for more pain - MAMMOGRAM - the mother and father of all pain!! The nurse doing the x-rays was telling me about her really annoying neighbour who lived in the condo above her, and how since they changed from carpet to wooden floor, the noise was unbearable and then suddenly the way she worked that machine, I felt like reminding her I was not her neighbour! I roared. "Take a deep breath it's only 40 seconds" she laughed - 40 seconds that felt like 40 minutes!
Friday 15th - I caught my trouser leg in the number plate of Kevin's car - weird.
There was a big rrrippppppp - just the trousers, and not my leg - thankfully!
It's really not like me to be SO accident-prone. I decided to have a pow-wow with the planetary gods to see what the dickens they were up. Sure enough, I had my 'aha' moment. Saturn the 'pain planet' (internal and external) was having a major head-on with Uranus (the planet of sudden unexpected happenings) in the sign of Aries, a very accident-prone sign, which rules the 'head' area of the body. Astrologically speaking, that sure explained things for me. In the circumstances, it kinda made sense, even if I didn't like it. If this was happening to a client, I would have advised "Pay attention this week and SLOW down".
If I knew that in advance of the pain, could I have done something to eliminate it? Now that's the BIG question. I deffo heffo need to listen to the celestial sages. No rushin' - especially when the titans are clashing! Everything is a question of timing, and being in the moment - that is for sure! I think the BIG lesson for me last week was to live in the NOW - and to pay attention!
No Pain No Gain - right?
Choo Choo for now!
Patricia xxx
Monday, November 19, 2012
MONDAY MUSINGS
Life is much more fun when you tune into the 'Happy' station. Let's face it, there are a ton of things out there eminently capable of bringing you down - if you let them! I don't - enooo! I don't want to hear about wars, violence, cruelty, starvation, tsunamis, earthquakes, worries, etc. There is nothing I can do about them. I do give to charity, and the rest is up to God.
Worries beyond my control go in one ear, and OUT the other. I don't give them a chance to take a seat and feel comfortable in my headspace. I'm very unsociable, especially when it comes to entertaining negativity - Which is why I was really disappointed at the last two big box movies - Batman and James Bond - what's gone wrong with the world of escapism? Batman and Bond have gone bats - if you'll excuse the pun. Did you see them? Miserable they were.
We eventually got to see the new Bond movie yesterday. We were half an hour early, yet the cinema was almost full. People were clearly excited to see it, but unfortunately, I found it dark and depressing. Sure, there was all the characteristic violence, horror, murder and mayhem. Bond always had a bit of that, but it was usually balanced with a generous helping of charm, glamour, romance, fashion, and gorgeous women to offset the boystuff.
I didn't like the setting of either movie. Instead of Monte Carlo or Paris, they gave us rat-infested gutters, smelly tunnels, and bombed out derelict buildings. Moody stuff. What's fun about that? I ended up exhausted from all the fighting and car chases. I'm a terrible back seat driver. Movies are supposed to 'move us'. We need our escapism, fantasy, beautiful scenery, luxurious destinations, fabulous fashion, and happy foot-tapping music - right? When you leave the cinema, the least we deserve is a warm fuzzy feeling inside. Sorry Mr. Bond - you left me shaken and stirred - but not happily so.
Since we're on a happiness train-of-thought, we need to surround ourselves with positive people, and be aware of any person, or situation that threatens our peace of mind - right? I prefer feeling happy, joyful and optimistic. The more I behave, and think in a positive manner, it becomes like a habit - a good habit. Pollyanna is never far away, and I'm so glad I began this project. My very favourite quotation is from Dr. Seuss. Whenever I want to do something I have never done before, I remember his words...
'Those who mind don't matter...and those who matter don't mind'. Which translates to - your friends are going to love you no matter what!
On that positive note Choo Choo for now!
Patricia xxx
Worries beyond my control go in one ear, and OUT the other. I don't give them a chance to take a seat and feel comfortable in my headspace. I'm very unsociable, especially when it comes to entertaining negativity - Which is why I was really disappointed at the last two big box movies - Batman and James Bond - what's gone wrong with the world of escapism? Batman and Bond have gone bats - if you'll excuse the pun. Did you see them? Miserable they were.
We eventually got to see the new Bond movie yesterday. We were half an hour early, yet the cinema was almost full. People were clearly excited to see it, but unfortunately, I found it dark and depressing. Sure, there was all the characteristic violence, horror, murder and mayhem. Bond always had a bit of that, but it was usually balanced with a generous helping of charm, glamour, romance, fashion, and gorgeous women to offset the boystuff.
I didn't like the setting of either movie. Instead of Monte Carlo or Paris, they gave us rat-infested gutters, smelly tunnels, and bombed out derelict buildings. Moody stuff. What's fun about that? I ended up exhausted from all the fighting and car chases. I'm a terrible back seat driver. Movies are supposed to 'move us'. We need our escapism, fantasy, beautiful scenery, luxurious destinations, fabulous fashion, and happy foot-tapping music - right? When you leave the cinema, the least we deserve is a warm fuzzy feeling inside. Sorry Mr. Bond - you left me shaken and stirred - but not happily so.
Since we're on a happiness train-of-thought, we need to surround ourselves with positive people, and be aware of any person, or situation that threatens our peace of mind - right? I prefer feeling happy, joyful and optimistic. The more I behave, and think in a positive manner, it becomes like a habit - a good habit. Pollyanna is never far away, and I'm so glad I began this project. My very favourite quotation is from Dr. Seuss. Whenever I want to do something I have never done before, I remember his words...
'Those who mind don't matter...and those who matter don't mind'. Which translates to - your friends are going to love you no matter what!
On that positive note Choo Choo for now!
Patricia xxx
Sunday, November 18, 2012
GOOD OLD MICKEY D'S!
A.K.A. McDonald's...what a sweet surprise Kevin and I had today. After mass we decided to go for a muffin and a cappuccino. The McDonald's near St. Andrew's has been newly renovated, so we decided to check it out. Was I ever surprised! Best cappuccino I've had in ages! It was supposed to be a medium size, but more like a grande I would say. It was surprisingly delicious, and I'm a fuss pot when it comes to my cappuccino - just like a man and his guinness - the best or nothing! Right? So for the princely sum of $5.56 we got 2 delicious muffins - carrot and blueberry - an americano and a cappuccino. Best deal in town I would say! The decor is now all swish and modern, with bright red seats and shiny stainless steel surrounds - perhaps not as cosy as Starbucks - but hey! not bad, and you can get it to go.
Actually, there is another great deal I have to tell you about...You know when you go to the foodcourt - you're hungry - but not THAT hungry. Guess what? Go to Tacotime. Order the kid's meal, and if you're watching your weight, you'll not feel guilty either. On Friday I ordered the kid's meal and got the same portion of mexican potatoes as an adult would, in addition to a small vegetarian burrito, and a small diet coke - all for $5.34 - can't beat that! It was delicious and I certainly felt satisfied after it, just like I did at McDonald's today.
Next two recommendations to make your day rock!
One - take a CAT-NAP each day for 10-20 mins. Seriously, best thing you can do! It doubles your daily production levels. Do it when you feel the eyelids drooping...
Two - take time to have a QUIET CUP of tea or coffee daily. Turn off the world and the phone! Just takes 10 minutes, and you'll be right as rain!
Choo Choo for now! and remember...TAKE TIME FOR YOU!
Hopefully, one of the above suggestions will make you happy.
Love you!
Patricia xxx
Actually, there is another great deal I have to tell you about...You know when you go to the foodcourt - you're hungry - but not THAT hungry. Guess what? Go to Tacotime. Order the kid's meal, and if you're watching your weight, you'll not feel guilty either. On Friday I ordered the kid's meal and got the same portion of mexican potatoes as an adult would, in addition to a small vegetarian burrito, and a small diet coke - all for $5.34 - can't beat that! It was delicious and I certainly felt satisfied after it, just like I did at McDonald's today.
Next two recommendations to make your day rock!
One - take a CAT-NAP each day for 10-20 mins. Seriously, best thing you can do! It doubles your daily production levels. Do it when you feel the eyelids drooping...
Two - take time to have a QUIET CUP of tea or coffee daily. Turn off the world and the phone! Just takes 10 minutes, and you'll be right as rain!
Choo Choo for now! and remember...TAKE TIME FOR YOU!
Hopefully, one of the above suggestions will make you happy.
Love you!
Patricia xxx
Thursday, November 15, 2012
TWENTY YEARS AGO TO THE DAY!
Yes, exactly twenty years ago TODAY, Kevin, Alexandra, Victoria and I landed on Canadian soil - a little family with big dreams - and what a sad welcome... I can remember very clearly the desolation I felt in my heart. It was dark, freezing cold, and there was nobody there to greet us at the airport, just an envelope with a key to the hospital house, and directions on how to get there.
Where were all those friendly doctors, and their wives, who lured us to Fort McMurray? The lavish dinner parties we attended before we decided to emigrate...Where were they all now? I wondered in disappointment. Nobody - No milk in the fridge, or sugar, or bread. We were starving. Poor Kevin dropped us off at the empty house, and then went in search of a shop. The loneliness, and sense of isolation was FIERCE. My survival instinct kicked in with a vengeance. I wanted to get my family all cozy, food in the fridge, and into our warm snug beds, and hot chocolate... I knew we would be fine. See, the Pollyanna glad game began all those years ago! And there was lots to be glad about.
In 1992, Fort McMurray was desperate for a Psychiatrist, and when Kevin accepted the position, he was the only Pyschiatrist for 36,000 people - and disturbed ones at that! I wont lie, those first few months were pretty brutal. I was so lonely I kept my old shampoo bottle with the Dunnes Stores price tag on it - to help me feel at home!!
No Spring... no daffodils...no grass...no green...no colour. White outside, and beige inside. Cabin fever that Tylennol could never cure...painfully dry skin...nose bleeds...electricity shocks... forever snow...faceless people who hid away in their homes, and never walked on streets... drive-in garages that eliminated any human contact. No wonder people needed a Psychiatrist!!
Poor Kevin worked like a dog. I stayed inside all day long with my little babies. It was way too cold to go outside, and besides, we were snowed in! We would have to dig our way out! Victoria was only 8 weeks old, and I was petrified she would get frost bite. When we did go out, it took nearly an hour to get us all dressed. I had to bury my vanity and don a balaclava! I looked like a robber. Every part of us was covered. The temperature that first Christmas was minus 60 degrees below with the wind chill - I kid you not! A can of coke left in the car, parked in the garage - froze to death in minutes!
So yes, we plunged in at the deep end...got the hard stuff done first. I appreciated the words on a coffee coaster Kevin gave me "Things are difficult before they become easy" - How true!!
In those early bleak days, television became my friend, as well as the Sears catalogue. It didn't take me long to discover the joy of shopping by catalogue, and the excitement of waiting for it to arrive. We shopped and boy did we shop!! Well we had nothing. The girls and I would watch all the kid shows together - 'Lamb Chops' being a favourite, and Mr. Rogers - we just loved him! We would read lots of story books, listen to music, and paint pictures together. The girls were happy as Larry. Their needs were simple. They had my un-divided attention - and I fully immersed myself in the joy of motherhood - that was surely the platinum lining!
Our little family has come a LONG way in 20 years. If I knew then, what I know now - would I do it again? Hmm not so sure...I surely would have done some things differently. How did I keep sane without internet or cheap telephone calls and brutal weather? The answer in 4 words - FAITH - FAMILY - FINANCIAL COMFORT.
Tonight we celebrated our 20th anniversary by ordering in some Thai food, and watching Top of the Pops from 1977! It's the little things that keep us glad, isn't it?
Choo Choo Pollyanna Pals! and remember...
'THINGS ARE DIFFICULT BEFORE THEY BECOME EASY".
Patricia xxx
Where were all those friendly doctors, and their wives, who lured us to Fort McMurray? The lavish dinner parties we attended before we decided to emigrate...Where were they all now? I wondered in disappointment. Nobody - No milk in the fridge, or sugar, or bread. We were starving. Poor Kevin dropped us off at the empty house, and then went in search of a shop. The loneliness, and sense of isolation was FIERCE. My survival instinct kicked in with a vengeance. I wanted to get my family all cozy, food in the fridge, and into our warm snug beds, and hot chocolate... I knew we would be fine. See, the Pollyanna glad game began all those years ago! And there was lots to be glad about.
In 1992, Fort McMurray was desperate for a Psychiatrist, and when Kevin accepted the position, he was the only Pyschiatrist for 36,000 people - and disturbed ones at that! I wont lie, those first few months were pretty brutal. I was so lonely I kept my old shampoo bottle with the Dunnes Stores price tag on it - to help me feel at home!!
No Spring... no daffodils...no grass...no green...no colour. White outside, and beige inside. Cabin fever that Tylennol could never cure...painfully dry skin...nose bleeds...electricity shocks... forever snow...faceless people who hid away in their homes, and never walked on streets... drive-in garages that eliminated any human contact. No wonder people needed a Psychiatrist!!
Poor Kevin worked like a dog. I stayed inside all day long with my little babies. It was way too cold to go outside, and besides, we were snowed in! We would have to dig our way out! Victoria was only 8 weeks old, and I was petrified she would get frost bite. When we did go out, it took nearly an hour to get us all dressed. I had to bury my vanity and don a balaclava! I looked like a robber. Every part of us was covered. The temperature that first Christmas was minus 60 degrees below with the wind chill - I kid you not! A can of coke left in the car, parked in the garage - froze to death in minutes!
So yes, we plunged in at the deep end...got the hard stuff done first. I appreciated the words on a coffee coaster Kevin gave me "Things are difficult before they become easy" - How true!!
In those early bleak days, television became my friend, as well as the Sears catalogue. It didn't take me long to discover the joy of shopping by catalogue, and the excitement of waiting for it to arrive. We shopped and boy did we shop!! Well we had nothing. The girls and I would watch all the kid shows together - 'Lamb Chops' being a favourite, and Mr. Rogers - we just loved him! We would read lots of story books, listen to music, and paint pictures together. The girls were happy as Larry. Their needs were simple. They had my un-divided attention - and I fully immersed myself in the joy of motherhood - that was surely the platinum lining!
Our little family has come a LONG way in 20 years. If I knew then, what I know now - would I do it again? Hmm not so sure...I surely would have done some things differently. How did I keep sane without internet or cheap telephone calls and brutal weather? The answer in 4 words - FAITH - FAMILY - FINANCIAL COMFORT.
Tonight we celebrated our 20th anniversary by ordering in some Thai food, and watching Top of the Pops from 1977! It's the little things that keep us glad, isn't it?
Choo Choo Pollyanna Pals! and remember...
'THINGS ARE DIFFICULT BEFORE THEY BECOME EASY".
Patricia xxx
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
RUSHIN'...
I remember years ago as a Catholic growing up in Ireland, we would pray for Russia - Russia? I know it sounds insane now, and I would wonder to myself 'Why Russia?'. Why not Africa where people were starving? or countries where cows had more status than women? I felt there were more deserving causes than Russia. I still have those old prayers where we would pray 'for Russia' with love.
Today, I had 40 minutes to kill, while Alexandra completed her eye exam. Rather than sit in a crowded waiting room, reading ancient, smelly magazines, I decided to cross the street to Starbucks and enjoy a nice creamy cappuccino -why not? It was there I had the light bulb moment about Russia. I believe somewhere along the prayerway to heaven, there was a typo. I think what they meant us to pray for was 'RUSHIN'. You see every time I find myself 'rushin', I do myself an injury.
Take last Monday when I was Rushin' to get to see the new Bond movie, I wasn't paying enough attention to the moment, and I fell - a whopper of a fall! - on my back, and banged my head off the ground...ooh!! the pain of it, which still lingers today. The first thing I did was a wordsearch, to check if my brain was still intact. I even searched the ground to see if there were any loose parts from me - it was that bad!
Then today again, I was rushin' to get Ali to her appointment on time...and in my haste, I closed the office door on my hand...aagh the PAIN of it was insane! What was even more insane is the fact we were waiting...and waiting...and waiting - at least 35 mins. for the eye doctor! So I really didn't need to rush after all, did I?
What I say makes sense, and since we 'Pollyanna Pals' are on this happiness journey together, we need to STOP RUSHIN' - Right? That way there will be no more fender-benders, high blood pressure, painful falls, broken ankles, etc. etc. and the list goes on.
I'm feeling sorry for myself, and next time I find myself praying for Russia, I'll take the time to correct myself!
Choo Choo Pollyanna Pals - NO RUSHIN'
Patricia xxx
Today, I had 40 minutes to kill, while Alexandra completed her eye exam. Rather than sit in a crowded waiting room, reading ancient, smelly magazines, I decided to cross the street to Starbucks and enjoy a nice creamy cappuccino -why not? It was there I had the light bulb moment about Russia. I believe somewhere along the prayerway to heaven, there was a typo. I think what they meant us to pray for was 'RUSHIN'. You see every time I find myself 'rushin', I do myself an injury.
Take last Monday when I was Rushin' to get to see the new Bond movie, I wasn't paying enough attention to the moment, and I fell - a whopper of a fall! - on my back, and banged my head off the ground...ooh!! the pain of it, which still lingers today. The first thing I did was a wordsearch, to check if my brain was still intact. I even searched the ground to see if there were any loose parts from me - it was that bad!
Then today again, I was rushin' to get Ali to her appointment on time...and in my haste, I closed the office door on my hand...aagh the PAIN of it was insane! What was even more insane is the fact we were waiting...and waiting...and waiting - at least 35 mins. for the eye doctor! So I really didn't need to rush after all, did I?
What I say makes sense, and since we 'Pollyanna Pals' are on this happiness journey together, we need to STOP RUSHIN' - Right? That way there will be no more fender-benders, high blood pressure, painful falls, broken ankles, etc. etc. and the list goes on.
I'm feeling sorry for myself, and next time I find myself praying for Russia, I'll take the time to correct myself!
Choo Choo Pollyanna Pals - NO RUSHIN'
Patricia xxx
Monday, November 12, 2012
THE GIRL IS BACK!
My home is now alive with the sound of music, laughter and stories...adventures in OZ and NZ ...suitcases full of presents...discarded wrapping paper...excited puppies...new amazing beauty products that were purchased 'over there'...goodbye cards 'to Claudia' with beautiful words from teachers and students...colourful coffee table books bringing New Zealand into our home - "just like being there" Kevin said in sheer delight as he turned the glossy pages...photos...memories...fashion from afar...gratitude in my heart...and
BOY am I glad to have her home SAFELY!!
When I saw her standing there at the airport, my first reaction was 'Lord thank you for bringing her back safely to me'. I just could not stop saying it over and over again to myself. I guess I must have been worried! Most mothers are, when their loved one is far away. The news of that lovely Irish girl murdered in Australia a few weeks ago, and another Irish girl living in Victoria, who died in a tragic accident in Auckland NZ recently, didn't help ease my concern... Right to the last minute, I'd ask Vicky 'Have you heard from Claudia? Did she get on the plane? I know it sounds INSANE...but my biggest concern was that she would get into the taxi of a 'weirdo' and he would...enuff Mrs.!!
It goes back to the time I stepped into a taxi in Dublin years ago, and the taxi driver put his hand on my thigh!! That was the first and LAST time I was foolish enough to get into the front seat of a taxi!!
When I think of all the adventures I got up to in my lifetime, I can now totally understand what my own mother went through - God love her! The adventures of my girls are totally tame in comparison to what mine were like - seriously! Whot was I thinking? Hitchhiking all around Europe...travelling on 4th class trains around Northern Africa...working on a Kibbutz on the Lebanese border with the smell of gunfire in the air...cycling alone in the middle of nowhere in Israel...passing truckloads of hissing Arab men...living in battlethick Northern Ireland, having Orangemen (who hate Catholics) as my 'not so friendly' neighbours...If I knew then what I know now - Would I do it all again? YES YES YES - I'm frickin' Insane for adventure...And trust me - God willing, I've lots more adventuring years ahead of me d.v.
Talk about adventure, we're all heading off to see the new James Bond movie today. Adele sings the theme song, and it's fantastic! Love it. Check it out sometime...
Choo Choo for now, and PLEASE make yourself happy today - ANYTHING!
Go for a Starbucks, chat up a charming Veteran and MAKE HIS DAY!!
Love you!
Patricia xxx
BOY am I glad to have her home SAFELY!!
When I saw her standing there at the airport, my first reaction was 'Lord thank you for bringing her back safely to me'. I just could not stop saying it over and over again to myself. I guess I must have been worried! Most mothers are, when their loved one is far away. The news of that lovely Irish girl murdered in Australia a few weeks ago, and another Irish girl living in Victoria, who died in a tragic accident in Auckland NZ recently, didn't help ease my concern... Right to the last minute, I'd ask Vicky 'Have you heard from Claudia? Did she get on the plane? I know it sounds INSANE...but my biggest concern was that she would get into the taxi of a 'weirdo' and he would...enuff Mrs.!!
It goes back to the time I stepped into a taxi in Dublin years ago, and the taxi driver put his hand on my thigh!! That was the first and LAST time I was foolish enough to get into the front seat of a taxi!!
When I think of all the adventures I got up to in my lifetime, I can now totally understand what my own mother went through - God love her! The adventures of my girls are totally tame in comparison to what mine were like - seriously! Whot was I thinking? Hitchhiking all around Europe...travelling on 4th class trains around Northern Africa...working on a Kibbutz on the Lebanese border with the smell of gunfire in the air...cycling alone in the middle of nowhere in Israel...passing truckloads of hissing Arab men...living in battlethick Northern Ireland, having Orangemen (who hate Catholics) as my 'not so friendly' neighbours...If I knew then what I know now - Would I do it all again? YES YES YES - I'm frickin' Insane for adventure...And trust me - God willing, I've lots more adventuring years ahead of me d.v.
Talk about adventure, we're all heading off to see the new James Bond movie today. Adele sings the theme song, and it's fantastic! Love it. Check it out sometime...
Choo Choo for now, and PLEASE make yourself happy today - ANYTHING!
Go for a Starbucks, chat up a charming Veteran and MAKE HIS DAY!!
Love you!
Patricia xxx
Sunday, November 11, 2012
LEST WE FORGET...
It's Remembrance Day long weekend here in Canada. Poppies are everywhere to be seen. Some people flash them smartly on hats and bags, others on scarves, and then on lapels, the most popular place to house them. Canada does a really good job remembering the Veterans of both world wars. It is a major event over here, and one I have come to really appreciate over the years. Veterans proudly displaying their war medals sell the poppies, and a little story or two... Streets are littered with them, as they fall off easily, unless you safety pin them on. Every time I see them on the ground, covered in dirt, it reminds me of the poor soldiers who too fell to their death.
Televisions and radios keep blasting out the "Last Post" - the saddest, most haunting of bugle sounds. Just listen to it...for me, it symbolises death, sadness and loss. But to the soldiers it symbolised the end of the day, and to those still out fighting and not accounted for, it was a call to find safety and rest.
I have a special Remembrance Day outfit. Each year I take it out and wear it, specially for the occasion. It is a black and white houndstooth patterned jacket. It is German made, so it is very well constructed. I wear it with a long black dress, and then a contrasting patterned black and white silk scarf with red trim. It makes the red poppy Pop! I guess you could say I look like a newspaper - black and white, and read all over haha!! I should be more sombre - but I hate WARS!! such a waste of talent, money and lives. Such a waste...
Newspapers around this time have wonderful stories of heroes and heroines from the wars, which I always enjoy reading, and photos taken from the archives of handsome young men, sadly taken, before their lives were properly lived. It is a sad time. My favourite story this year was about a French girl called Giselle. A local Pharmacist found her photo amongst his late father's belongings, and decided to delve deeper. His father was an airforce pilot in WW2. Apparently his plane was shot down in France. The survivors, one of whom was his father, were rescued by a French farming family.
Giselle the 17 year old daughter of the farmer was very kind to the men. Reading between the lines, it would appear, there was an unrequited love story between Giselle, and the writer's father. He traced her all the way to France. Giselle was now a tiny, sprite little woman in her 80's, and a retired teacher. It didn't say whether she had married, but it would appear not. The writer of the article found it bizarre that Giselle had a photo of him, taken when he was a baby! What a great love story this could have been...
Every year on Remembrance Day, a new love story is unfolded...The message this year, which I heard loud and clear, was to start talking to veterans, listen to their story - before it is too late to be heard. The number of veterans is dwindling each year, until soon, there will be nobody left to tell their story.
I cannot say 'Happy Remembrance Day', because it would sound like an oxymoron, and wars are not something to be happy about... But in true Pollyanna style, I have to find something to be glad about. I am glad we get the day off!! and that in 2 hours time d.v. we will be at the airport welcoming our darling Claudia back from 'Down Under'.
Yeah! So without further ado, I'd better go and get ready...
Choo Choo for now!
Patricia xxx
Televisions and radios keep blasting out the "Last Post" - the saddest, most haunting of bugle sounds. Just listen to it...for me, it symbolises death, sadness and loss. But to the soldiers it symbolised the end of the day, and to those still out fighting and not accounted for, it was a call to find safety and rest.
I have a special Remembrance Day outfit. Each year I take it out and wear it, specially for the occasion. It is a black and white houndstooth patterned jacket. It is German made, so it is very well constructed. I wear it with a long black dress, and then a contrasting patterned black and white silk scarf with red trim. It makes the red poppy Pop! I guess you could say I look like a newspaper - black and white, and read all over haha!! I should be more sombre - but I hate WARS!! such a waste of talent, money and lives. Such a waste...
Newspapers around this time have wonderful stories of heroes and heroines from the wars, which I always enjoy reading, and photos taken from the archives of handsome young men, sadly taken, before their lives were properly lived. It is a sad time. My favourite story this year was about a French girl called Giselle. A local Pharmacist found her photo amongst his late father's belongings, and decided to delve deeper. His father was an airforce pilot in WW2. Apparently his plane was shot down in France. The survivors, one of whom was his father, were rescued by a French farming family.
Giselle the 17 year old daughter of the farmer was very kind to the men. Reading between the lines, it would appear, there was an unrequited love story between Giselle, and the writer's father. He traced her all the way to France. Giselle was now a tiny, sprite little woman in her 80's, and a retired teacher. It didn't say whether she had married, but it would appear not. The writer of the article found it bizarre that Giselle had a photo of him, taken when he was a baby! What a great love story this could have been...
Every year on Remembrance Day, a new love story is unfolded...The message this year, which I heard loud and clear, was to start talking to veterans, listen to their story - before it is too late to be heard. The number of veterans is dwindling each year, until soon, there will be nobody left to tell their story.
I cannot say 'Happy Remembrance Day', because it would sound like an oxymoron, and wars are not something to be happy about... But in true Pollyanna style, I have to find something to be glad about. I am glad we get the day off!! and that in 2 hours time d.v. we will be at the airport welcoming our darling Claudia back from 'Down Under'.
Yeah! So without further ado, I'd better go and get ready...
Choo Choo for now!
Patricia xxx
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
SO SORRY MITT!!
I am in mourning for my darling Mitt. So I needed a BIG laugh today. Ali & Vics superlative blog provided me with a much-needed chuckle. I'm sharing their jokes below. Maybe like me, you need something to lift you haha!!
O.K. all you Obama lovers...you won!! It would appear the astrological predictions all those months ago were correct - who am I to fight fate? It was written in the stars. I knew it, but I still hoped for once the planets would get it wrong!! Darn they can be so annoying, especially when you want them to deliver different news...
Wonder if I could have told Mitt in good time, would he have listened to me, and saved himself all that trouble for nothing? The millions spent on the campaign could have gone to charity instead. The big mistake he made was his choice of VP. Political sages said this was his 'Waterloo', and that he should have gone with the Latino candidate. Had he done this, then he could have won the election. But then the planets would have been wrong. There is such a thing as fate, and one cannot fault Mitt on the effort he put in.
Anyway, 'twas not meant to be...The only consolation for me in all of this is that I do prefer Michelle Obama to Ann Romney. She has a natural down-to-earth warmth about her. Barack is cold and distant, Michelle is warm and natural. Mitt is warm, Ann is cold. Bill Clinton is warm, Hillary is cold. I guess it's a case of opposites attract. Certainly that was the case in the love story between the late Robert Kennedy and his wife Ethel. I watched the documentary on t.v. tonight and it was truly fascinating. Ethel was left a young widow. The youngest of her 11 children was born a few months after Bobby was shot. They were clearly madly in love. She was the consummate extrovert, while he was the introvert, helped greatly by her more outgoing manner.
People marvelled at Ethel's ability to bounce back from adversity, time after time. Her son David died from a drug overdose in his 20's, and another son died in a skiing accident in his 30's. Throughout all this tragedy, she has remained poised, and in control. Her secret? Apparently it is her strong devotion to God that has helped her battle life's adversities, so her children said. She is never without a rosary beads in her hands. Am I surprised? No. Ethel Kennedy's life story is as inspiring as the lady herself.
Tomorrow I am helping out with a Rememberance Day function at St. Andrew's Cathedral. I decided to offer my services. They were looking for volunteers to help with the food and party preparation. My friend Colleen is going to help me. It was the perfect volunteer position for me. I love preparing and serving food, and it is always fun meeting the other parishioneers in our church. We will do 1-2 functions per month. It is only 2-3 hours twice a month. Volunteering was on my bucket list for the Pollyanna Project. The next event will be on the 30th November. Wish me luck!!
Choo Choo for now!
Patricia xxx
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
THE LAST ROSE OF SUMMER
Yesterday, the dogs and I tiptoed and crunched our way through yards upon yards of God's golden carpet; thousands of decayed leaves, beautifully interwoven, with the delicacy and dedication of a silk worm. It was as much fun as walking on bubble wrap, but less noisy. We kicked up the leaves to our heart's content, knowing we weren't making a mess - since the mess was already made for us! What a huge change in scenery from the summer, when the gardens were in full bloom, fragrant and vibrant with colour. And what a metaphor for life.
Suddenly, in the midst of all the dirt brown decay, I noticed a solitary pink rose still blooming on a bush. As I touched it, a perfumed petal fell on my hand, and I savoured summer's last hurrah. It brought to mind that lovely song 'The Last Rose of Summer' written by the Irish poet Thomas Moore in 1805. I began to sing it aloud - fortunately, there was nobody around to say I was nutz, but the dogs, (they know it already!), and the ducks were too busy avoiding the floating dead leaves, to pay much attention.
That last little fragrant rose blooming yesterday was a symbol of hope and persistence, and the realization that all things are passing. Nothing, or nobody lasts forever...
The first verse is below, and if you tip toe over to 'Polly's Playlist', you will hear the haunting lyrics sung by the alluringly beautiful 'Celtic Women'. Enjoy!
THE LAST ROSE OF SUMMER
'Tis the last rose of summer left blooming alone, All her lovely companions are faded and gone. No flower of her kindred, no rosebud is nigh. To reflect back her blushes, or give sigh for sigh.
Check our the 'Celtic Women' on Polly's Playlist.
Choo Choo for now!
Patricia xxx
Suddenly, in the midst of all the dirt brown decay, I noticed a solitary pink rose still blooming on a bush. As I touched it, a perfumed petal fell on my hand, and I savoured summer's last hurrah. It brought to mind that lovely song 'The Last Rose of Summer' written by the Irish poet Thomas Moore in 1805. I began to sing it aloud - fortunately, there was nobody around to say I was nutz, but the dogs, (they know it already!), and the ducks were too busy avoiding the floating dead leaves, to pay much attention.
That last little fragrant rose blooming yesterday was a symbol of hope and persistence, and the realization that all things are passing. Nothing, or nobody lasts forever...
The first verse is below, and if you tip toe over to 'Polly's Playlist', you will hear the haunting lyrics sung by the alluringly beautiful 'Celtic Women'. Enjoy!
THE LAST ROSE OF SUMMER
'Tis the last rose of summer left blooming alone, All her lovely companions are faded and gone. No flower of her kindred, no rosebud is nigh. To reflect back her blushes, or give sigh for sigh.
Check our the 'Celtic Women' on Polly's Playlist.
Choo Choo for now!
Patricia xxx
Saturday, November 3, 2012
SUNDAY SONG
Hey all you beautiful sleepy heads!
It's Sunday, and I've a new catchy tune which I love, and cannot stop singing. It's the song of the moment. Maybe it's because I've been overdosing on candy since Halloween...!! The girls don't share my enthusiasm. Let your fingers walk over to Polly's Playlist, and give it a whirl. It's called 'Candy Store'. You have to sing along with me...Imagine yourself floating on a sea of candy and singing this song - Heaven!!
Hope you enjoy it, and that it brings a smile to your face, and makes you happy!
Choo Choo!
Patricia xxx
It's Sunday, and I've a new catchy tune which I love, and cannot stop singing. It's the song of the moment. Maybe it's because I've been overdosing on candy since Halloween...!! The girls don't share my enthusiasm. Let your fingers walk over to Polly's Playlist, and give it a whirl. It's called 'Candy Store'. You have to sing along with me...Imagine yourself floating on a sea of candy and singing this song - Heaven!!
Hope you enjoy it, and that it brings a smile to your face, and makes you happy!
Choo Choo!
Patricia xxx
Friday, November 2, 2012
BEST EVER HALLOWEEN!!!!!
This Halloween was by far one of my favourite. I was well prepared, and took my time putting up the lights and decorations, piece by delightful piece. Alexandra and Victoria helped me make up the goodie bags the night before. See below. Our aim was to bring joy and happiness to the little trick 'n treaters knocking on our door - Pollyanna style! We had about 50 visitors, which was 10 up on last year. Our visitors were adorable.
My favourite costume was that of a little girl around 8, who was dressed as Scarlett O'Hara, so her proud dad told me! Parents and kids were all very appreciative of our efforts. One little fellow looked at me as I told him to pick a bag from the basket and said "you are so generous". He sounded like a very wise old man! The kids told me my costume was "amazing" and 'Hey miss your house is the best we've been to all night!" It was one great big street party and the lights shining from Craigdarroch Castle added to the ambience. I got an invitation to Cuba from a very nice man visiting his family in Victoria. Six of them arrived at the door - two little boys, their parents, grandmother and this friend from Cuba. He gave me his business card to contact him in Havana!! He was a professor of pediatrics in the faculty of medicine, university of Havana. Who knows? I may take Roberto up on his kind offer!!
Greeting the trick and treaters at the door!
Taking a break from activity!!
My lovely new console table has a coat of many colours specially for Halloween!
We ordered in a Chinese takeaway for the evening before our visitors arrived. Kevin opened up a bottle of white wine, and turned on the Halloween music...Just as we were enjoying our festive cup cakes from Ooh La La bakery (delicious!), the door bell began to ring, and did not stop for several hours. By 10.00 p.m. all was quiet..The little tricksters had gone to bed - exhausted but happy!
I guess you could say I'm into Halloween!! haha
'Witchy Poo' was one of the first Halloween toys the girls got, so she is now part of the family for the past 19 years! When you press a button, she sings a scary tune...I turn her on for the kids at the door. My first Halloween in Canada was a shock! Who was to know it was SO big over here? A neighbour kindly gave me a big bag of candy as I ran short of supplies very early on. That was the first and last time it happened!!
This scary devil is actually only the size of an egg and hangs from our Halloween tree.
Our green gremlin - Halloween Harry - has also been in the family for several years. He is our door bell. He is sensor controlled. When you pass him, his eyes open and he begins to sing 'Wild thing you make me feel good...you make everything GROOOOOVY!' I love my groovy Harry, and what a fine voice he has!
Getting some atmosphere going with the lights...This tree is just outside our dining room window, and to the right of the front door. I love it! In the summer it is a lotus tree with beautiful vibrant pink leaves that fall like velvet kisses...
This was our Halloween adventure...Hope you enjoyed it!
Choo Choo for now and have a great weekend!
Patricia xxx
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