LET'S MAKE THIS SEASON REAL!

There is an awful lot of Capricorn energy going on at the moment. The Sun, Moon, Venus, Mercury and Pluto are all in Capricorn - Whoa!! What does that mean to us mortals?

Check out my other blog www.astrocupid.blogspot.ca for suggestions on how to work with all this earthy and sombre energy.

EnJOY!!

Love,

Polly P xxx

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

There is something about Christmas this year. Magical, for want of a more creative account. People want to celebrate. I think the past year - actually make that two, have been mighty stressful for a great many people. I hear the stories, and man they sure make you appreciate each day! It's all any of us have, and after you turn 50,  it's no longer a biological clock ticking - another tick tock takes over!!

Leaky condos or condoms become less of an issue - there, that got your attention! Kevin woke me up at an ungodly hour this morning talking about leaky condos, and I thought he said leaky condoms. A riot of laughter ensued! Maybe it is because for the past week I have been cleaning up pools of water in our kitchen. I was blaming poor blind Chichi in the wrong! Feel so guilty now. The dishwasher was the one at fault. Time to replace it.

I have some why's on my whine list today:-

Why does your dishwasher decide to take a vacation during the busiest time of the year??

Why does your Visa get hacked and compromised - just when you need it the most? Now it has to be cancelled, and a new one ordered while we round up the convicts who put me in this uncompromising position!

Why are plumbers so hard to find this time of year, and why, pray tell, does their fee per hour vary so much?? $75 per hour the first guy "Sorry I'm booking into the new year" while my wooden floor rots. $85 p.h. the next fellow, and he's booking into space. The third, and final guy was $95 per hour, plus $59 despatch fee to travel to your home. Surely a plumber is a plumber? or are some plumber than others?

Why did the electricity in my daughter's room decide to play tricks with me, a week before her return for Christmas? and why did the electrician I googled turn out to be insane? I could hear his cuss words downstairs in the kitchen, as he tried to fix the problem upstairs - but couldn't - and I still had to pay him! Just as he was in the height of his effing rampage upstairs, the dogs started barking ferociously "Ma get that lunatic out of our house" and he was roaring "How many dogs do you have?" and all the while the radio was blaring "It's the most wonderful time of the year..." Funny!

Last, but not least, why are all mistakes in shops overcharges, as opposed to undercharges? In the past 2 weeks, I have had 3 mistakes made, due to being overcharged, in amounts ranging between $14.99 down to $11.99. The bottom line for today is Check your receipts, and Check your Visa. Mistakes happen!

Hugs,

Polly P xxx

BUSINESS IS BOOMING AND GOD IS GOOD!

I dunno where the time has gone since last I wrote! Actually, I do. I was shopping, shopping, and then some. I have sent off all my Christmas cards (approx. 80), thrown in a few great parties, decorated my home with gusto - and still not finished! Had two great sessions with the Bingo calling at 'Our Place' homeless shelter, and due to the popularity, it will become a weekly event - Yay! best fun ever!!

I just love Christmas, and my favourite party so far was actually at my church last Saturday, a week ago. It was to honour Our Lady. As you may, or may not know, I'm a big fan. We began with the rosary, followed by prayers of devotion. Then it was Parteeee time! It was a pot luck event, so everybody brought fabulously delicious International dishes, from all around the globe. I am addicted to those Philippine spring rolls. They are magical. I could never re-create them. Rita, the head of our group is of German origin, and concocted a most delicious creamy chicken dish - it was 'yumticious'.

Later, a local native Indian group sang Christmas songs in their native tongue, as did a group from Korea. Then a little boy (aged 8) played his guitar and sang the Beatle's song 'Let it be'..."When I find myself in times of trouble, Mother Mary comes to me...". He was so pure and innocent, and sang with such heart, I could feel the tears misting up my eyes. I left the event with my heart singing, and my tummy mighty happy too! That is why I say 'God is Good'.

We had our TOPS luncheon on Friday, and the girls loved my pep talk. But hey! for Christmas TOPS has become POPS...putting on the pounds satisfactorily!! Wherever I go, food is there before me, and, needless to say - has a great welcome!! We have a forthcoming family trip to Cuba in February d.v. so I will have to get that bikini bod looking good! An incentive, if ever.

What has made Christmas 2014 very special for me, has been the introduction of my first Advent wreath. I never did one before, and Dah! what was I thinking??? I did the calendar with the mini chocs and meaningful messages tucked inside, but it is not the same. The simplicity of the wreath re-inforces for me, the true meaning of the season.

The highlight of my daily ritual is when everybody is tucked up cosily in bed, I light my advent candles, and have a moment of bliss, reflecting on the day, and life in general. I read a page from 'Advent - a Calendar of Devotions 2014', by James W. Moore, which I would highly recommend. It was only $1.49, and full of daily inspiration. Lulu my chihuahua is part of the evening ritual. She tucks into me on the couch, snoring happily, adding to my comfort. The lights on the tree twinkle merrily, and the sweet aroma of fresh balsam permeates the air...I'm in Christmas Heaven!!

Hugs,

Polly P xxx

PEACE AND LOVE

I have to do a 20 mins. presentation to my TOPS Ladies group on Friday morning. Tops, which stands for Taking Off Pounds Sensibly, is really more like a friendship group, and I love them dearly. Then there is the KOPS (keeping off the pounds sensibly) component of the group, the ladies who have successfully kept the pounds off! We are all part of a ladies group who gather for an hour every Friday am to discuss our issues with healthy lifestyle, share low calorie recipes, have speakers in, plan fun events, etc.

I have never done a program before, so had to think about it. A trip to Pier 1 Imports to look at their festive fair, gave me inspiration. They had a clearance basket, filled with bargains galore. From this treasure trove, I found some fabulous bracelets with the symbol for Peace and Love on them. It got me thinking...they were reduced from $5 to 98 cents each - a bargain if ever! I had my light bulb moment.

I got all the bracelets, one for each of the ladies in the group. I am going to wear my fancy 'Peace and Love' jacket, which my kids think is insane looking! It is a black silk jacket, embellished with hot pink, orange and blue peace and love symbols. It is a designer piece which I snagged at a local consignment store for a fraction of the original cost. I decided to do a talk on making 'Peace and Love' with yourself, something like the following:-


P      Persistence with healthy lifestyle,  Peace within,  Positive thoughts

E      Eat food that nourishes your body = respect for self - Enjoy your life

A      Accentuate the Positive 

C      Celebrate each day of your life!

E       Enjoy your life and Eliminate the negative!


Yay, it's going to be fun. I can feel it already! And the girls will just love our Peace and Love friendship bracelets. The theme of my presentation is that we must strive to enjoy our lives. To all the ladies still struggling with weight issues, I will encourage them to imagine they are at the exact weight they want to be and to live each day as if they were.

I will encourage everybody to wear something each day that makes them feel fabulous - a little spritz of perfume behind the ear, a nice colourful scarf, a necklace that makes your heart sing - and Voila! you're off to a jolly good start to the day! Try it, if you too are struggling with body issues.

Each day should be a catwalk day...Right girls?...Let's Go!!

Hugs,

Polly P xxx

GET THOSE WHIPS AND HANDCUFFS FROM LA SENZA!

Give them to the Police who may have better use for them!

Ever since my visit to the Mall on Friday, it had been bothering me. It wasn't the jostling crowds, nor the scramble to find a parking spot. No, it was the sight of 'torture toys' sitting pretty (more like ugly!) with the ladylike lace at La Senza. And kids looking at them and wondering...like me...what the hell!! I know I'm sounding like auld acid Aggie, but what has society come to?

I watched a gruesome true-life murder story on t.v. recently.The 49 victims were all young women, who had been bound and whipped, and God knows what else, prior to their murder. It disturbed me enormously. Why encourage this?

Sexual pervert, Jian Ghomeshi, who once hosted a very popular radio show here in Canada, has been making headlines recently because of his predilection for S & M. The sluice gates of his torrid love life opened, revealing a deluge of  bruised and battered ex-girlfriends, all testifying against him. Some were almost choked to death. He lost his job as a result - and hopefully the handcuffs will be on him - not in his frilly boudoir - but in prison. He is a savage with no respect for women. Why encourage this?

Taking matters in hand, I wrote to 'La Senza' and told them their fine ladies lingerie needed no embellishments from Hades. Hopefully, they will remove them without further ado!

Hugs and kisses,

Polly P xxx

CHRISTMAS TREAT FROM POLLY'S PARLOUR!

I want to share my all time favourite Christmas song with you today. I think you will enjoy it too, and the video is totally charming. Love it!

To get you in the Christmas mood, let your fingers wander over to 'Polly's Playlist' and tell me what you think in the Comments section below...Do you adore it as much as I do? What is your favourite Christmas song?

I was sitting in the dining room the other day, surrounded by rolls of Christmas wrapping paper, colourful tags and ribbons, jingly bells for the wrapping, boxes of Christmas cards, the sweet aroma of Fresh Balsam (from Bath and Body Works) permeating the air. Candles lighting for special effect, and Christmas music...Bliss!!

Chris Rea's song 'Driving home for Christmas' came on, and I must have rewound it at least twenty times! Love Love Love that song. It brings back so many happy memories. Driving home to the country to visit my parents for Christmas, when I lived in Ireland. You can just feel the excitement and energy in the song.

So whether you will be flying home for Christmas, or driving, or walking - EnJOY this song!

Happy Monday and Happy New Week!

Hugs,

Polly P xxx

SIMPLE ABUNDANCE

One of my favourite bedside books is 'Simple Abundance' by Sarah Ban Breathnach. After a difficult day, I find it very comforting to browse through it, with a warm cup of tea in hand. All my cares are gently shushed away and whatever joy was sucked from me, is seamlessly restored. Love this book!

Stress is part of everyday life. Just like you can't get out of life alive, neither can you get on with the business of living without encountering it. The secret is in how you handle it. Not always easy, especially if you are of a feisty disposition like me. When somebody hurts me, I find it difficult to suffer in silence. I bought a new zip for my lip, and hopefully this one will work!

We are now heading into the most stressful time of the year for many people - Christmas. Yesterday was 'Black Friday' (they should call it 'Orange Friday'). Black is a colour I associate with funerals and interviews. Give me orange any day! The Mall was 'savage' for want of a better word. Yes, it was black with people. No, there weren't any fantastic bargains worth the jostle. Going to the Mall on Black Friday is asking for stress. Apparently one shop assistant had her hair yanked to get her attention, and an employee at the foodcourt had a major panic attack. Is it worth it? Yes, of course, if you suffer from FOMO!! (fear of missing out).

The happiest shop in the Mall was 'La Senza', purveyors of fine ladies lingerie which are supposed to cover your privates, but designed not to do so. I think there is enough torture in life without having to wear chain underwear and butt freezing g-strings! They have added whips and handcuffs to their juicy repertoire. It was the only store in the Mall where I saw the men going around, like kids in a toy store, with smiles on their faces - and no arguments about spending!

I'd highly recommend you get a copy of 'Simple Abundance'. It is the secret to keeping Christmas happy and stress-free. The best things in life really are free (or kind of!) listening to Christmas music as you potter around the kitchen, watching Christmas movies such as 'Love Actually' with the family, sitting by a roaring fire with a yummy hot chocolate, playing with your pets, watching the twinkling fairy lights on the tree, having rich conversations with your loved ones, enjoying a good laugh...

Do more of what makes your heart sing this festive season...

Hugs,

Polly P xxx

WE CAME, WE SAW, WE GLITTERED!

When it comes to Christmas decorating - Go big or go home! Claudia and I went big, and came home from Vancouver looking like two disco balls. Our hair, skin and clothing was sparkling from all the glitter we handled over the weekend. Great fun, and now the condo is looking all Christmassy and happy. I finally realized my dream of having that silver and blue tree. The tree in the condo is a winter wonderland of silver, midnight blue, and lime green. I love those colours, and they look perfect against the backdrop of winter white walls.

Fun accomplished, our return trip to Victoria was so different from the outgoing journey. We booked the 3.00 pm ferry, but magically got on the 2.00 sailing, just as the cars were boarding. We got home in an hour and 45 mins - no line ups, no excitement - except for when a voice over the mic announced the appearance of humpback whales, which were best viewed from the window near where we were sitting.

I was sipping my yummy cappuccino, gazing out at the majestic ocean, when suddenly a throng of roaring, excited people came galloping towards us - Help! Old people, young people, tourists with cameras in hand. They came out of nowhere, in less time than a sneeze. I told Claudia that if it was a scramble to get a life boat, we'd be left behind!

They were hoping to get a glimpse of the whales, when all I could see was a whale of an ass almost touching my face. It was denim clad, and didn't give a damn about the fact I was sitting there, trying to drink my coffee, which was almost knocked out of my hand during the whale rush. For all that effort, the whales never appeared. I can't say I blame them! People moaned in disappointment. The whole episode was so funny, I couldn't contain the laughter. What is so exciting about whales? Even if it was Prince Charles swimming in the nip, I wouldn't give up my comfortable seat. I think all that running around in Vancouver had me wasted.

One thing I learnt from this trip - it pays to shop around! On a visit to pricey South Granville Street, I was surprised to see a pair of decorative faux silver candlestick holders which I got at Winners for $16, were selling for $70 at a store there. In addition, battery operated candles I bought for $6.99 each, were selling for $34.99. Winners is my favourite store. Their catchphrase is 'where you find fabulous for less'. The profit margins in some shops is enormous. Winners, though their prices are low, still make a decent profit.

Battery operated candles are all the rage over here at the moment, and they are safer too. Most people are now opting for them, as opposed to the real wax candles. I'm gradually replacing all my 'real' candles after the wax made such a huge mess over Halloween - never again!! The melting wax destroys walls, tablecloths, mirrors, tables, floors. Still haven't got rid of that dreadful black wax from some Halloween candles last year.

So shop around for best bargains. Replace all your wax candles for the battery run ones, and avoid the big mess! And last, but not least, mark your calendars - thirty two days to Christmas!!

Happy new week!

Hugs,

Polly P xxx

JUST BE YOURSELF

'If people like you, that's great. If they don't - that's cool too!"

I awoke this morning to the gentle jingle of the rain outside, the humming of traffic, and my girls discussing Ashley Simpson, the sister of business tycoon and singer, Jessica Simpson. The above words of wisdom are a direct quote from Ashley - my sentiments precisely! Don't bother what the haters say...ignore them 'til they fade away. Anon.

It's one of the kinder side effects of ageing - you develop chillaxation! Like Ashley, I no longer agonise about who likes me, or who doesn't. It is enormously liberating. To thine own self one must always be true. I applaud her for discovering this gem of wisdom at such a young age. The secret to happiness is Faith and begorrah! Faith is self-explanatory, and Begorrah is - leave a leg in it! 

People can be strange, and weird, and wonderful too. We are programmed to be kind and polite to others. If they are having a bad day - you'll soon know. Some people lash out at others, whilst others suffer in silence.  The last thing you want to say to them is "Snap out of it!" Whoa! that can be treading on dangerous ground. Naturally, you'll want to love and support those closest to your heart. But life isn't always easy, and we do need a good support system to help us on the journey.

What is your support system? Sometimes when we get really down on ourselves, our instinct is to build a little hole, and hide away from the world. It is safe, and nobody can hurt us. Right? Yes, perhaps for a time, while you re-connect with yourself, build your faith, and develop a good fighting spirit. But once that is done, you need to get back on the train. Fast! before the mind starts playing tricks with you.

The healthiest people I know, mentally speaking, are those with a deep sustaining faith, a good sense of humour, generosity of spirit, and the ability to take the rough with the smooth. Last, but not least, involvement with others - be it through a hobby, pets, weight loss program (yes!) or whatever. It is vital to be part of something. When you feel you don't belong anywhere - it can be the loneliest feeling on the planet. So reach out and touch somebody today - except if you are on a nudist holiday - naturally!!

Happy Friday!

Hugs,

Polly P xxx

GREETINGS FROM VANCOUVER!

OMG what a journey! I could have been to the North Pole, and back, in the time it took us to get to Vancouver today. Claudia and I were at the terminal in good time only to discover that the 1 p.m. sailing was full. We had to wait a whole two hours for the 3 o'clock sailing - drat!! A further two hours on the ferry, and then out of the frying pan - bang into the fire of Vancouver rush hour traffic!

There is a radio station dedicated to it. Bumper to bumper of boredom. Nothing for it but to sit it out for the hour and a half it took us to navigate the unusually thick traffic. An accident or two caused the pile up. Thank God we don't have to do this every day in Victoria. In fact, our commute to work is only 3 minutes each way - seriously! Think of all the petrol you save, and time!! One gets lazy.

Finally, we hit Robson Street - Heaven!! The Champs Elysee of Vancouver was like London, Paris, New York, and Milan, all holding hands together in one magnificent welcome. Yay! Twinkling fairy lights, Ornate shop windows, Festive trees dripping in silver and blue, Stars, Bling, Buzz. Thank you Vancouver - you were worth the wait! Soon - very soon, I forgot about the journey, as our destination beckoned us in.

I have a rather industrious to-do list for the weekend. Plant daffodils on the patio for the Spring, do some Christmas shopping, have some quality time with Ali and Victoria, dig out the Christmas tree and decorations from #13, our allotted storage space in the basement, and see what other bits and bobs are stuck in there. I like going down there because it is cozy, and reminiscent of a chicken coop. I enjoy the challenge of using our tiny storage place to its fullest potential, like an Ikea kitchen, or Kevin working out how to squeeze all our fat holiday suitcases into the trunk of the car - same fun!! The chicken coop is a trial run for when we downsize some day - hopefully never!!

I have a lot of friends who have downsized, including our new neighbours, and are finding it really challenging. We're certainly not in the groove for it yet. On the plus side, a smaller space means less housework! Our view from the 7th floor, overlooking Robson Street is especially beautiful around Christmas time. A smaller home means bigger time for other things...hmm more restful too. Nay! by the time Sunday arrives, I'm ready for Victoria, my house full of memories, my animals, my mess, my refuge.

BFN

Love from Vancouver!

Hugs,

Polly P xxx

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS...

The shops are killing me with temptation. All my favourite Christmas sweets and treats are back for their annual pilgrimage - more like pigrimage!!. They're looking good, and haven't changed a bit since last year - the exact same in fact. I bought a few tins of Belgian biscuits for the dining room table. It looks very inviting when people come in from the cold, and want a cuppa. I will hold out a bit on the Quality Street, even though they were on sale, I felt it a little dangerous bringing them into the house so soon before Christmas. Chocolates and seasonal movies work very nicely together.

I've started my shopping - went slightly overboard last Sunday...thanks to my Bay gift cards. The bank rewarded me for all my spending this past year, by giving me gift cards for all the major stores. Every time I pay with my Visa I get points. It's very encouraging!! I got Kevin's present, little bits and bobs for the girls...and was extremely indulgent. Well, it wasn't real money. I don't consider gift cards real money, or are they?? Hmmm...

I could not resist buying the most delightful Christmas village ornament. It's BIG...It comes with a skating rink (not a real one). The village lights up when you plug it in, and dancers dance around the skating rink to the jingle of jolly Christmas music. And the joy - it was free! Yay! - first there was 25% off, then I got an extra 20% with my Bay discount. Already I'm at 45% off, and my Bay gift cards paid for the rest. Thank you Mr. Bank! I love it!! I told the family that if ever I was too exhausted to put up the annual Christmas Mardi Gras of decorations, all we have to do is take out 'The Village'.  I decided to call it 'Tir na Nog" - the Irish for 'Land of eternal youth'.  Perfect! As if I needed another decoration hehe!! Holiday Hall in the basement is now groaning. Please not another decoration!

After watching all those Christmas decorating videos I was telling you about, I realized I wasn't the only crazy one out there. In fact, I would say I'm pretty tame in comparison to others. At least I have never spent a whole three days making a swinging Christmas chandelier, as one lady did, and I don't spend $2,000 on Christmas lighting electricity bills, as some folk do. Christmas brings out the kid in us all. We need to end the year on a high note. It helps keep our old engines revved up and happy as we welcome in a brand new year. Right?

Talk soon!

Luv,

Polly P xxx

A FESTIVE FANTASYLAND

On my tea break yesterday, I googled upon a most enjoyable Christmas wonderland. What a delight it was! Everything you ever wanted to know about decorating your home for Christmas - your hearth, table, front door wreath, entrance - the whole nine yards. Images were accompanied by cheesy...oops meant cheery! festive music to get you in the mood. I got some great ideas, and I will share a few of my favourite with you, for your entertainment, and edja-macation!

Sharpen your finger tips, and let's get googling...sorry I don't have their website addresses. Just type in the words.

Best of Christmas Decorating 2014

Decorate a tree with Kevin - not mine get your own Kevin!! (The tree decorating Kevin is from Trees and Trends)

Christmas Decorating with Rebecca Robeson (from Robeson Design)

Christmas Garlands with Lisa Robertson

Nancy Alexander on wreaths and greens

There are tons more, but the above were some of my favourite. I got great ideas from Nancy Alexander on giving a fresh twist to my old familiar front door wreath. She suggested putting fresh greens around a faux garland with fresh holly, etc. Never thought of that - thanks Nancy!

Rebecca Robeson suggested mixing up the way you decorate each year. Using old decorations in a novel way, can make them feel like new ones. I liked that idea, and will definitely put it to the test this Christmas. It is too expensive for me to change my colour scheme. I always use the traditional red, gold, and green hues. It suits my wall colours - and my wallet!! Sure, if I was a Hollywood movie star...Cobalt blue and silver tree one year, deccadent purple another year...what fun!

Another great idea for a centrepiece is to use a feather boa, and wrap it around some pillar candles (I think the led battery candles would be safer). Add some pine cones, and large colourful Christmas balls to the mix.

On my walk this morning, I came across a friendly bunch of arborists cutting down a beautiful and fragrant old pine tree. The branches would be  perfect for my faux wreath, and Nativity set I thought - thanks to ideas I got from Nancy Alexander and Rebecca Robeson. I asked the fellows for a few branches, before they were gobbled up by their big noisy machine. They were delighted to be of assistance, and told me the branches could last until Christmas and beyond, if kept in water.

So my Polly Pals, get thee to a garden with a scissors. Keep an eye out for a holly bush, pine tree, or even broken branches from the last wind storm. You can spray paint the twigs in silver, or gold, and hang jolly baubles from them. Decorating with panache, and practicality...to quote Martha Stewart..."It's a good thing".

Some ideas to get you creative juices flowing...

EnJOY!

Hugs,

Polly P xxx

SHARE THE MERRY...

So Starbucks are advising. Goodbye pumpkin pie, hello yummy cranberry bliss! For various reasons, this past year has been a difficult one for many people. If you're reading this, it means you've survived 2014. You deserve to start celebrating...early - like now!! We, at the Pollyanna Department of Hope, believe that Christmas is a time of miracles, new beginnings, peace, joy and love.

The pleasure of Christmas should be prolonged. Every sparkly, altruistic, jolly, glittery, cozy, decadent moment, should be treasured. It will help eradicate all the misery of the past, and fuel your happy engine for the year ahead. You deserve to be happy. Christmas doesn't have to be expensive, nor does it have to be one big gluttonous pig-out. If you haven't spread much cheer in the past year, well now is your time to make up for that! Don't wallow in self-pity telling yourself how much you hate Christmas. Regrettably, it will be a self-fulfilling prophecy!

Start early, create your own cards, give home-made gifts of baking, jewellery, or maybe even soap! Creativity can save you buckets of money, and double the pleasure for everybody involved. Set yourself a budget for Christmas and stick to it. Make a Christmas card list, and also your gift list. This is a time for remembering all those people who have touched your life in the past year. Your dentist, doctor, newspaper delivery boy, garbage collectors, etc. You'd be surprised how much it means to them! Each Christmas, a financially-challenged patient gives Kevin a little bag of home made cookies, and it means the world to him!

There is absolutely no doubt, the more you give of yourself at Christmas, either by volunteering, or spreading cheer, the more joy you receive in return. That's why I love dear old St. Nicholas!

Blame it on personal hardships, recession, computer technology, or whatever. There has to be a good reason why our world has become more insular, cynical, and sometimes lacking in good old fashioned fun. Loneliness and depression are on the up and up...Even the cats on the street are suffering from SAD, and some parents will not let their kids go trick 'n treating any more, due to all the food allergies, and predators, etc. Hello World - what's going down??

So, without further ado, get on board the Christmas Zumba train of thought...Let's sock it to the world!!

EnJOY!

Hugs,

Polly P xxx

CHRISTMAS IS COMING...

Yay! I got my first Christmas card yesterday. It was from my Aunt in England. What a thrill! I also went to my first Christmas Bazaar with Ali and Claudia last Tuesday at Sears. They had door prizes, Christmas music, bells, whistles, perfume, free gifts galore, food, tarot readers (if your purchases came to $75), free manicures, facials, make-up, eyebrow threading, etc. etc. All that girly sort of stuff that I am a sucker for.

The day after Halloween it was full-on Christmas in the shops - Wham Bam! It was weird, to say the least. I was still in my witchy zone, and it felt like seasonal jet lag!! I wish they wouldn't do that, but shops have to sell, people need jobs, and the wheel of life has to keep churning. There is nothing as heart warming as the sight of sleigh bells in the snow, hot chocolate by a roaring fireside, and all our troubles gone off to Timbuktu, which is what the jolly holly greeting cards convey.

So today Christmas is coming...Let it be fun this time. It starts with the Christmas cards, since most of my friends and family live abroad, this is a big part of my annual tradition. In truth, the cards have been in the shops weeks before Halloween - sick I know! I'm always drawn to cards with Angels and Doves, since they symbolize peace and love. I also like cards with images of big cozy fireplaces, with stockings hanging overhead - and a tiny one for the resident mouse!! Once the cards are bought, everything else falls into place. Everybody loves to get a happy card in their mail boxes to place on their mantlepiece. Computer technology will never deliver the same thrill.

For others, it starts with the baking. Wish I was a baker, but alas, I'm not. I do make delicious almond rocca however, and one year I gave a bag of it to friends and family. It went down a treat. I placed them in clear cellophane bags, tied with bells and bows. I have now added dark and white chocolate peppermint bark to my culinary repertoire. Delish, and so easy to make. Each Christmas there is a bake sale, and whenever my church has one, I will do either the rocca, peppermint bark, or rice krispie cookies. The latter I place in festive muffin cups, with a cheery foil covered candy in the middle. Easy peasy and quite delicious too. I love the lead-up to Christmas, bake sales, church sales, etc.

It's too soon for the music...no I think I will wait for December to start playing the music, and putting up the decorations. Television ads are beginning to creep in. So watch out - It's Coming...Christmas that is!! EnJOY the build up...Me too!!

Luv,

Polly P xxx

DON'T FORGET TO REMEMBER...

I don't like the word 'deceased'. It screams This person ceases to exist! Gone - finito - never to return!! While in theory this is true, spiritually, we know our deceased loved ones will always remain close to us. At least for as long as we continue to remember them...And we should. They love it - just as they did in life.

For the month of November, our church has a book placed on the altar. Parishioners are invited to write the names of departed loved ones in this book, and they will be prayed for. The other day I did just that. My list filled two whole pages. It's true to say I probably have more friends in Heaven than planet earth! It feels good to have friends on 'the other side'.

Each Halloween, a friend of mine gets together with some friends to resurrect memories of departed loved ones. They talk about them, cook their favourite food, laugh at their jokes, look at their photos, etc. What a wonderful thing to do. I especially like the idea of cooking their favourite meals! At Christmas time, another friend of mine places photos of her deceased loved ones on her Christmas tree. I have a little photo album which I have filled with their photos. I pray for then when I can - which should be more frequently I know!

I love watching Theresa Caputo, the Long Island Medium on t.v. She communicates with the dead. I know some skeptics doubt the veracity of her abilities - but hey! I'm not one of them. I'm a believer. Listening to her, there is no doubt in my mind. Our loved ones are always close by, watching out for us. So for the month of November, if there has been a lull - let's get the dialogue going again...

Some suggestions, apart from the above mentioned:

Find some quiet space
Light a candle
Take out the photos of your deceased loved ones
Pray for their souls
Tell them how much you love and miss them still
Talk to them out loud - in the kitchen - in the car - wherever
Put their photos in prominent places. I see my dad's smiling face
in the kitchen when I am cooking, or doing my ironing. He always loved
the kitchen.

Keep the love in your hearts!

Hugs,

Polly P xxx

HAPPY HOLYWEEN!

It is no secret that I just LOVE Halloween. I know Pope Francis doesn't share my views on this fun filled time, and feels it should be more of a 'Holyween'....Isn't being kind and generous to strangers kind of holy? Well, I thought I would share my thoughts on this colourful time of year - just in case he is reading this. True to say this time of years appeals to the witch in me. I think I was one in a past life, and that I was burnt at the stake - which may explain my dislike of barbecues, and the sight of full pigs roasting...aagh!!

As a child I have very happy memories of Halloween. Treats were few and far between. We would look forward to eating delicious barmbrack lathered in butter, and to see who got the ring. Whoever got the ring would be the first to marry. Nobody wanted to get the pea - they would die an old maid! It was fun - as was ducking for apples, and dancing on the beach around a big warm bonfire. Fun fun fun - that is my childhood memory of halloween, which I have carried into my adult life.

When I came to Canada twenty two years ago, I found people kept to themselves, and I felt quite isolated for a time. I think part of the reason was because of the arctic climate that kept people huddled up inside for months at a time. People were polite, but very reserved - so different from the loquacious Ireland I had left behind. But there was one day that changed all that - One day - and that day was Halloween!!

On my first Canadian Halloween in Fort McMurray - horror of horrors - I ran short of candy! I had no idea how huge this holiday was in Canada. I was desperately raiding every cupboard in the house looking for anything sweet. The door bell kept hopping, and I had no idea what to do! A kind neighbour realized my plight, and sent her kids down with whopping huge bags of candy for me to distribute, and would not take payment - how kind!!

This was a day that helped me to see another side to Canadians - the warmth, generosity, and deeply concealed child, that lurked within my newly adopted countrymen and women. Yeah! I knew it! They could party like rock stars, and did have a wild side, and were immensely creative, as could be seen from the incredible costumes. That's why I love love love Halloween!

Yes, I always have an enormous blast at Halloween. Yes, I go all out. Yes, this year was no exception. Go big or go home. I don't do skulls, graveyards, yucky stuff - enoooo! That's not my thing. I respect the dead. I like an excuse to do pretty and dress up with fancy headdress, glitter, diamonds (not real!) fur, feathers, fancy palancy! I was Cleopatra one year, Cinderalla another year - you get the drift...

The fun part is decorating the house two weeks in advance, making up my treat bags for the visiting little trick 'n treaters, and seeing the utter joy in their faces, when I hold the basket in my hand, and invite them to take a big fat bag from it! Priceless. My kids always had great fun at Halloween, and had a little ritual of emptying out their trick 'n treat bags, and sharing the spoils. They were always very generous with Mama!!

Why are coffee crisps so unpopular and Mars bars the favourite I would wonder? I watched in awe as they neatly arranged all the smarties in one bunch, and mars in another, etc. The dentist across the street always gave out free tooth brushes - lol, and a little old lady in one house would fill delightful little bags with orange and black jelly beans all tied up in pretty bows. Cute.

In short, Halloween is a practice run for Christmas and spreading good cheer. It's a last hurrah before I go into spiritual hibernation for the month of November, a time when I remember my dearly beloved deceased ones.

So that's my take on Halloween or should I say Holyween!!

Toodlepip for now!

Polly P xxx

THE JUNGLE GYM

This morning I really didn't want to hit the gym. I needed a good excuse, but couldn't find one, so off I trotted. I made sure to loosen out before I left, and burnt 160 cals. on my treadmill in the basement beforehand. That was a good idea, because otherwise the drill can be body numbing.

When I signed up for fitness, I had no idea that I would also be getting a big dysfunctional family into the bargain. Truth is - I miss them if I don't see them. So that's a good thing!

I have my own secret names for the regulars. There is 'Aunty Ida' from France who curses in French when she gets frustrated. Like today, she was enraged when a sweaty body did not clean the seat after he was finished."Disgusting" she said, touching her crotch."They leave all this liquid behind from Timbuktu!"

Then there is Uncle 'Randy Andy' who has eyes for nothing but boobs and butts - of which there is a good selection to choose from. Little bro 'Harvey Hogger' who hogs a certain machine, and stands possessively around it, like Chichi does with her food bowl.

I have to be extra careful when cleaning my exercise mat, lest I squirt water on 'Delicate Denny'. I did it this morning ...oops! He threw me a nasty look that told me he hated the female race in general. "You wet me" he said with controlled anger in his voice. "Will I do it again? I wanted to tease. But I didn't. He looked like he could do with a bit of fun! Instead, I lied through my teeth "Oh! I'm dreadfully sorry".

'Ants in his pants' Alan is extremely impatient, and focused to win. "Do you mind if I slip in here for a few minutes. I'll be awfully fast" he says, before pushing somebody off their machine. He has his to-do list, and by golly he hits the target!

"That is why I detest the gym" Kevin tut tuts when I tell him tales from the jungle!

Toodlepip for now and happy new week!

Polly P xxx

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN!!

Yeps! Today marks the third and final Mercury retrograde phase for 2014. It begins today, and finishes on October 24th. So for the next three weeks - you know the drill by now. I have you well warned - or should have! Here's a reminder:-

Employ due diligence when signing contracts. In fact, it would be better not to sign any agreements until after the 24th October. Be very careful when leaving messages, texting, or emailing, as communications can go astray during this retro phase. Be prepared for travel hitches if flying, or travelling. Bring a small overnight bag!

Back up computers, etc. Check your car, words, deeds, and actions and s l o w  d o w n. Now that the leaves are falling from the trees, and the summer clothes are washed and tidied away for another year, embrace this period with mindfulness, warm delicious cappuccinos by the fireside, a peaceful prayer, and gratitude that you've lived to see another beautiful Autumn.

Mercury Retrograde phases are all about slowing down and travelling within. Because this is the last one of the year, it is a good time to have a meeting with yourself, and check to see how you're doing. Have you reached your goals for the year? Is there much left in the bucket? (list), have you organized with zest your Fall/Winter wardrobe? It saves time, money, and is a ton of fun.

I have stuck like a clam to my 9/11 challenge not to spend a dime this season, and to use what I got. With the money saved, I pledge to donate some to a fantastic local charity started by two friends. It is called 100 women. One hundred local women pledge to pay $100 four times a year to help local charities such as Youth at Risk, homeless folk, young unmarried mothers - the list is endless. We meet four times a year to discuss our charity of choice. Believe me, I'm off the sweets and junk food as well, and blush at the amount of $$ I've wasted...well I did enjoy it at the time!!

In case you haven't guessed, Saturn the 'Taskmaster' of the zodiac hits my natal chart this year for two ridiculous years!! He only comes every 27 years or so, and when he does...he means business!! All of us folk born in 1957 are going to be feeling a kick up the u no where. He arrives on Christmas Eve (aagh!!) I'm preparing my defence strategy and seriously cleaning up my act - in every department! Or else I know...I'll be in BIG trouble!! Getting that second book published, losing those extra pounds, doing more good for society. He makes you ask yourself "What have you been doing with your life?"

My challenge to myself was 'Self-discipline' as I knew I was capable of over-stepping the mark. My cup was indeed full, and the image of it spilling over the brim translated into the messy mountain of clothes in my basement, some going back three decades!! I'm sentimentally attached to clothes - unfortunately. The outfit I wore to my daughters' christenings, birthdays, graduation, holy communion, etc. you get the picture?? Even have stuff from my honeymoon. Ridiculous.

I've had more fun this season putting a Fall/Winter wardrobe together, and maybe I may get some photos together to show you - if I can find a willing photographer!!

Last, but not least - a funny Mercury Retrograde experience I had yesterday (it can start early). Sometimes the effects are felt more intensely at the beginning. This is SO typical of what happens during the MR phase. I left my car in to have the brake pads checked. I had discussed it at length with the serviceman, and how I had them done only in March, etc. I arrived back some hours later to find he had checked the light bulbs in the car - and not the brakes!! Now I have to go back again next week and have another day without the car! They also had the wrong address on the invoice...communications breakdown if ever!!

Toodlepip for now and safe travels!

Polly P xxx

MAIL ORDER BRIDES

Bet you anything my readership will hit the ceiling today! That's what happened the time I did a blog about on-line dating. The search engine was worn out!!

I've a thing about mail order brides, simply because I see so many of them, especially in church, and they always look so miserable! I feel immense pity for the poor girls. Life is precious. They could do better than marrying a man old enough to be their father, and fat and sweaty enough to be a good candidate for Weight Watchers. 'Gross' is the word Kevin used the other day when we saw a couple coming towards us. He was holding her hand like she was a prize lotto ticket waiting to be cashed, and she was holding on to his clammy hand because she had to - all part of the deal. She looked a sweet 16, and he a sour 90!!  The MOB's are prevalent over here. I guess Canada is a popular destination.

Can a girl be happy under these confining circumstances? Does rat poison really work? Can high shoes and big glossy handbags compensate for the lack? Maybe there isn't a lack? Perhaps I am being far too judgemental. Maybe these old boys are where it's all happening, and are true knights in shining armour...well maybe not so shining! As a mother of three lovely daughters, I find it difficult not to be a Mrs. Bennett. I'm all about the girl, and some of these beautiful young women deserve far more. In my opinion, MOB's are a step backwards. Slavery was abolished years ago, or so I thought.

'Kinky' is the word that comes to mind when I observe how these men like their young brides to dress. The 'Barbie doll' and 'school girl' look is extremely popular, as are killer stilettos, short skirts, and long long silky hair. I guess from the fellow's point of view - it is a winning lotto ticket!! These sweet young maidens do what they are told to do, dress like they are asked to dress, clean houses with relish, work two or three jobs, look like every schoolboy's crush - so yes, it is a win win win situation - for the men that is!

I passed one such couple on my morning walk today. The man looked very happy with himself, and even smiled at me. He was on a little jaunt with his two favourite gals - his gorgeous glamorous 19 year old bride from abroad, who happened to be helping his 90 year old mother with her walker, while he eyed the passing traffic. So not only does he get all the goodies of a MOB - In addition, he has an unpaid nurse for his aged mother - an ingenious idea!! Two for the price of one!!

Is there something I'm missing?

Have a great weekend!

Polly P xxx

LETTING OFF STEAM.

After three weeks of intense Olympic training in the pool, I am now delighted to tell you I can swim like a whale - the beached variety that is.

Yesterday, prior to my training (!!), I decided to head into the sauna to heat up. The golden girls were in the pool, doing their aquafit classes, splashing around happily while listening to James Last, and the grooviest music I've heard since the 70's. 'Fly me to the Moon' being an example of what I mean. I would be happy just to get to the deep end...almost there!!

Anyway, to cut to the chase, I headed into the sauna. No sooner was my butt plonked down on the hot seat, when a young and sweaty fellow began chatting to me - I attract them. 'Them' being the weird variety. He told me how he had 'an anger issue'. He didn't need to explain, as every second word from his busy mouth was an expletive. The brunt of his anger at the moment was his best friend, who had stolen his very expensive sun glasses, and would not return them.

Suddenly - and before I could grab my towel, he stood up and smacked his hands together "I want to squish him like a fly" and with that, he sent shrapnels of sweat in my direction. "People are s**ts" he continued. "Really?" I returned, all innocent. It was getting way too steamy in there, so I bid the sweaty young man a hasty farewell.

After my lesson, I returned to the sauna with my Scottish pal. We like to have a little chat after the swim, and I was keen to know her reaction to the Scottish 'Neverendum' as they call it over there. Just as the conversation was getting juicy, a craggy old gal stood up and reprimanded us for chatting.  "I pay my money here for a bit of peace and quiet..." and with that she stormed out of the sauna. 'One less problem without you' I sang under my breath.

Peace and Quiet? - imagine if she had met the young man with the anger issue! Now that would be one blast of heat!! Isn't life funny?

Have a great day!

Polly P xxx

WHAT MAKES YOUR HEART SING?

We all know that life, like the weather, is a mixed bag. Sometimes sunny, other times cloudy and grey. But when you think about it, we need one to appreciate the other!

Right now, what's making me mighty happy is the fact that Fall is here. It's one of my favourite seasons. Also, 'Dancing with the Stars' is back - Yay!! In addition, I'm working out, cutting down, both on spending, and SUGAR!! Having a sense of control makes me feel happy.

What makes you happy? Think about it for a few seconds...write it down. Bet you can pick at least 3 things! Funny jokes? Music? Delicious food? Your garden? It's often the simple things - like gold visa cards!

Another thing that makes me happy - no kidding! if you'll excuse the pun - it's the reality show '19 kids and counting' about the Duggar family. There are 19 children in the family...and room for more!! I love their simple way of life, living out in the countryside, with dogs running around wagging their tails, and everybody pulling together, and eating junk food to their heart's content, and happy as Larry. You have to watch the show to see what I mean.

My girls reading this will say 'Mom! you got to be kidding!' No, I'm not. Now you know - I like the Duggar family. They say it like it is - that life is not all pickles and hairspray! I believe them... though I can understand why some wouldn't! They make no apologies for the fact they are very devout. The two elder daughters are now engaged to be married. In keeping with their custom, and faith, they are not allowed to kiss, or touch their loved one before marriage. After marriage, it's all go once the sluice gates of love are opened!

After all those heart-thumping months of deferring gratification, enduring chaperones travelling everywhere with them, the soon-to-be married Duggar sisters will need a bit of release - which might explain the 19 kids and counting act they have to follow! The baby bar has been raised high by momma and poppa. I want to join their family, and be invited for Thanksgiving! They are my kinda people, simply because they live life completely by their own standards and rules, genuinely believe in God, allow themselves junk food, and always seem so happy - in a simple kind of way, without pretension.

So, like my friends the Duggars, do what makes you happy today! (I know what some will say to that!!) Dance, sing, laugh out loud. Listen to Eckhart Tolle. Savour the simple moments.

Turn off the nagging mind, and turn on the happy!

Luv,

Polly P xxx

ANGELS...OUR TWIN SOULS.

Ever since I was a teeny tiny tike, I've felt the presence of Angels all around me. I keep them close, and frequently commune with them. I've just completed a book of true stories about my travel adventures around the world - hitchhiking around Europe, living in Paris for a year, taking the 4th class trains in Morocco, Kibbutz life in Israel, living in Fort McMurray, Northern Alberta, with snow up to my eye balls! I've been there - done that - lots!! and have gotten myself into mighty sticky situations - some were akin to entering a wasp's nest! Aaagh don't remind me!!

I would not be here writing this in bed, sipping my delightful morning coffee, were it not for my beloved Angel protectors. They are my companions on the journey - my leave-me-never friends. There is one in particular, and I am convinced it is my Godmother, Aunty May. This is so weird - I'll share it with you... I keep her photo beside my bed, along with my darling Daddy's. Yesterday, I found a birthday card she gave me when I turned 1. No kidding - somebody's a hoarder! I shared it with Kevin and the girls at supper, and they said "Aaah sweet".

Later in the car, I found a little elephant charm down by the side of the seat. Aunty May always gave me elephants, because she said that like elephants, I had a retentive memory! Whenever I have a question on my mind, or an important decision to make, they'll deliver the answer - either via a random fortune cookie message I find on the street, or on a car bumper sticker. One way or another, they never leave me holding!! Aren't they great?

I've decided to call the book 'Divine Intervention' because that's how it feels to me. Were it not for DI,  I would not be alive today - for sure! I discussed the publishing of the book with a lady in the US. She is keen to help me get it 'out there'. Imagine my surprise when I discovered her second name was 'May' - as in my Godmother!! That is hopeful.

Last, but not least, guess what I found on my walk yesterday morning?  - Just as I was thinking about 'my forever friend' - yeps! A little golden heart with these words inscribed on it "You and I". 

Am off to the Women's Expo today...should be fun!

In parting...You have your Angels too! Start a dialogue...Happiness will be yours! They come in all shapes and sizes - dog form - cat form - You name it baby!! Can you guess?

Have a wonderful weekend!

Luv,

Polly P xxx

CUPCAKES AND FREEDOM...

That is what Canada is to me. Luxury, comfort, and freedom to be.

Never was it more apparent than this morning. I read a harrowing story in the newspaper about a young software wiz kid, Saeed Malekpour, stuck in an Iranian prison for the rest of his life. At the time of his capture, he was living in Canada. He went home to Iran to visit his dying father. Because he worked in the computer industry, (designing software for big companies in Iran), before coming to Ontario in 2004, he was charged with 'corrupting' the world.  The really sad thing is he is completely innocent. He was just in the wrong place, at the wrong time.

He has been brutally tortured by his captives, the "cyber army", beaten to within an inch of his life, given electric shocks that would temporarily paralyze him, stripped naked, and then threatened rape. The poor fellow was kept in solitary confinement for 320 days, and has been in captivity in this savage establishment since 2008. How is he still alive? A miracle, I would say.

His sister has been battling for years to get the Iranian Government to recognize the injustice of his treatment, and to set him free. Her valiant effort has meant his conditions have improved somewhat, and he can now receive phone calls. He told her that fond memories of his 2 years living in Victoria, has helped him survive. He closes his eyes, and visualizes himself jogging down a road, in a park he used to visit here. He loved to swim, hike, and ski Mount Washington. These happy memories are what keeps him going.

As I was enjoying my early morning walk by the ocean this morning, sharing the beach with the  seagulls, and watching the ducks gracefully glide over the shimmering water, all I could think about was poor Saeed Malekpour, and how he would give anything to be in my place - even for one hour!

When you read this, please say a little prayer for Saeed, and for all the other innocent folk being subjected to intolerable cruelty all around the world.

We have a lot to be grateful for - FREEDOM - and the cupcakes too!

Luv,

Polly P xxx

IS MODESTY A THING OF THE PAST?

Call me a prude but please there is nothing worse than the sight of a dozen naked hairy women running casually around me. I find it rather rude. I'm sure a man would beg to differ. This is the unsightly intimacy that greets me every Tuesday in the changing room, when I go to my swimming lessons. Why? Especially when there are six cubicles where people can modestly take their clothes off, and put them on again - without shocking strangers!

My kids tell me I have a habit of staring at people, so excuse me ladies if I start to compare body parts. Am I too prudish? Could you run around butt naked in front of complete strangers? Is it me? Is it them? Directly after our class, there is a children's class, so can you imagine the shock they must get looking at all the naked grannies!!

Actually, the same thing happened to Kevin in a gym in Calgary. When he went into the changing room - same thing. Men running around naked as the day they were born - and little kids exposed to this. He did make a complaint at reception - probably on deaf ears.

I met a new pal from Scotland who is also doing the swimming lessons with me. We are about the same age, and were the only two showering with our swimming costumes on! "Would you do the naked thing around here?' I asked her. "Not in a million years!" she laughed. "It's the way I was reared".

Isn't culture and upbringing an interesting thing?

Who is right? Who is wrong?

I'll wear my goggles heading into the changing room next time!!

Bye for now!

Luv,

Polly P xxx

C0-INCIDENCE OR WHAT??

Friday afternoon when I was in the office with Kevin, the phone rang. It was a young man keen to make an appointment to see a Psychiatrist. We spoke for a few moments, and I explained to him that he would need to get a referral from his family doctor, etc. He sounded a very nice young fellow, and in our brief conversation, he made an impact. He told me his name. I recognized his surname in an instant. He was from a prominent family here in Victoria.

So, here's where the co-incidence part comes in...

Tonight, as I was bringing Lulu for her nighty-night walk, a young man stopped to chat with us. He loved dogs, and wanted to know all about Lulu, her age, etc. Then he began telling me all about his dog, and soon our conversation meandered onto the night stars and constellations. He was a mine of information. Like himself, I could talk about dogs, and stars, 'til the cows come home. I found him actually quite fascinating. He was well dressed and mannerly - or as I say to my girls, 'the type of fellow who must have had a mammy who reared him well'.

As we were chatting, he pulled a rubic cube from his pocket which he called 'The Friendship Cube'. He told me that he had invented it, and it came with a card. The idea behind the cube was to 'pay it forward'. Do a good deed per day, then you earn a cube, and finally, you recruit somebody else to pay it forward, and do a good deed for somebody else. Right up my street!

I know what my girls are going to say when they read this "Mom - how do you always attract the weirdos?" Maybe it's because I'm a weirdo myself haha!! Every dog knows his own, or so it goes.

Anyway, to cut a long story short, the young man gave me a little miniature rubic cube to keep, along with an instruction card. I thanked him and then asked him his name. Guess what?? When he told me his name, I nearly dropped - it was the same young man who was looking for a Psychiatrist in the office on Friday afternoon. I knew I recognized the voice, and his name was one you would remember. His parting words were "I hope our paths will cross again".

Whatcha make of that?? Co-incidence or what? Or simply frickin' weird!

Choo Choo for now!

Polly P xxx

IF THE CUP IS FULL WHY KEEP POURING?

I was listening to Dr. Wayne Dyer's 'Change your thoughts' meditation c.d. recently. I picked it up for $4 at a consignment shop. Within two minutes of listening, I began to understand why somebody had donated it. Sorry Wayne, but your Tao hmmmmmms sounded like a cow mooing, and was a bit hard on the eardrums! However, in between the very long Tao Now moos, he had a lot of good advice, some of which stuck like wax to my eardrums.

Apparently, 500 years before the birth of Jesus, a God-realized being named Lao-tzu in ancient China created the ultimate commentary on the nature of our existence. This classic text, called the 'Tao Te Ching or the Great Way, offered advice and guidance that was balanced, moral, spiritual, and always concerned with working for the good. In the c.d. Wayne Dyer  takes you on a journey through all 81 verses of the Tao, offering affirmations and a unique meditation technique that you can directly apply to your life. By repeating the word 'Tao' as a mantra, you will subliminally attain a level of wisdom and peace that you may never have experienced before...

Now I did try the Taooooo out loud, and Kevin ran in asking me if I was all right! You have to be careful where you try the Tao...

The affirmation that resonated with me was 'If the cup is full why keep pouring?'  

Something about it struck a chord within. Yes, I do have a lot of bling. The house has enough plates to feed an army, and then some. Yes, I do have a lot of clothes. No, I never need that extra cookie, No, I don't need another orange top...you get the drift?

Yeps, did it again! I've begun a 3 month challenge to myself. Started yesterday on 9/11. I wanted to do something special on that terribly sad day. I have challenged myself to stop filling up a cup, that is really replete. Between now and 12/11 d.v. I shall not add to my wardrobe, home, waistline, or wish list. I just want to see if I can do this for 3 months. I want to get back to a simpler life. A Tao existence. When we go shopping, Claudia repeats my mantra, to remind me - ''If the cup is full why keep pouring?'' 

Here's to a cracking great 3 months!! I'll be saying a lot of 'TAO NOW BROWN COW'!

Something to chew on...instead of cookies!!

Have a great weekend!

Luv,

Polly P xxx

MR. SUBMARINE MAN

Upon my return from Vancouver, I had to take a trip to the supermarket. Just as I was loading the car, I could hear the familiar clippity-clop sound of footsteps coming towards me. These tired aching feet, with their ill-fitting shoes, were on a mission. It could only be one person...and sure enough, it was him - Mr. Submarine Man!

I call him that because he always comes up to me, and asks for money to buy himself a Submarine sandwich, with a drink. He is quite specific about the amount too. 'Miss, could you spare $5 so I can buy a submarine sandwich".  I'm a sucker for Mr. S, because there is something about his face, his appearance, his manner - apart from the fact he always calls me 'Miss' - (good strategy Mr. S!) and he is old enough to be my father!

It's not that I see him a lot, maybe once a month, sometimes less, sometimes more. But between the jigs and the reels, it's no skin off my back. He has become one of those strange people that enter your life, yet you don't know why they do. Sometimes I wonder if he is an Angel in disguise, sent by God to test my kindness pledge. As a thank-you, I promised God, that I would try with all my heart, to perform a random act of kindness each day. But he had to help me, and put the needy party in my path... That's why I find it hard to pass a panhandler (don't like the word beggar!).

Now that I'm off the chocolate, my new challenge to myself is to try and follow up on this pledge. You can join me if you wish...Maybe it is to yourself, that you owe a kindness. Maybe you are too hard...too cruel...too self-depricating...too critical...too mean to yourself. Seriously, think about it. And if you're nice to yourself, and it feels good. Well then, go out and spread the joy!

Love,

Polly P xxx

RE-VISITING POLLY'S BUCKET LIST

It's Monday morning, the last day of our long weekend in Vancouver. I'm lying in bed drinking yummy hot coffee, and just chillaxing, before our return journey to Victoria later today.

Travelling with my fingers, I opened up Polly's 'Bucket List', and it got me thinking. I cannot believe it is two years since I started writing my blog. Time really does fly at an insane pace. I enjoy writing it, and find it both comforting and fun. Since today marks goodbye to summer, and hello to Autumn, I felt it would be a good time for us all to review our own personal bucket lists. What's yours? Think about what you would like to do, or achieve, between now and Christmas - apart from losing 20 lbs!!

Today, I am glad to say marks the end of my month-off-chocolate challenge. Yeah! I did it, and survived. So if I can do that, maybe I can venture forward with boldness to something greater...

I decided to tackle my life-long fear of swimming in the deep end. My fear is as a result of two very scary experiences I had as a child. I will be starting intermediate classes this week...wish me luck!!
Feel the fear, and do it anyhow...right??

I will not clog the system with too many new challenges. We'll take it month by month...just like the chocolate challenge. See how it goes, easy peasy...

So go stoke your joy engines dear Polly Pals. Why not sign up for winter classes, dancing? art? piano? pilates? Yoga? (dang, i wanna do them all!!) My feet are itching to do some dancing lessons too, but let's not get ahead of ourselves!! Swimming first, and then we'll see!!

On that positive note, BFN and have a great week until we talk again.

Luv,

Polly P xxx

MY LEAVE-ME-NEVER FRIEND!

Yeps, we're back again. It's Labour day weekend here in Canada. A visit to our urban cottage in Vancouver was definitely on the cards. I love coming over here for a good boost of positive energy. It's a city where it is decidedly easy to accentuate the positive, and eeeeeliminate the negative in your life. You just simply breathe in all the action. It's an Aries city - no surprise!!

Yesterday morning, in a valiant effort to be good on the exercise, I pinned the condo key to my t-shirt, donned a pair of runners, plonked the head phones over my ears, turned on the music, and away I went for a great long walk. The shoes took me past shops and aromatic bistros, all the way down to English Bay, the epicentre of Vancouver life. The whole world was out walking, running, chatting on benches, people-watching, smiling, happy. I strutted away along the sunny seafront, delighted when the beads of sweat reassured me I was doing a fine job. Yes, I had the customary zeal of a convert...(that was before the feast later on!!)

When power walking, I usually like to listen to rebel songs, or disco. Sometimes, I do a little dance, or sing along, and illicit a rather peculiar expression from passers by. As I was listening to U2 belting out one of my favourite songs 'Sunday, Bloody Sunday' (It's a fabulous song for walking), I spied this enormous seagull on the beach, with an equally ginormous fish in its mouth. The poor fish had seen its better days. I have no idea where the gull could have found such a beauty. It looked like a flatfish, and the sight of the two of them at war, while listening to U2's 'Sunday, Bloody Sunday' brought to mind - of all things - the 'Big Brother' show currently on t.v. This show is a metaphor for life - and not a good one. Most unfortunately.

Can you trust anyone these days? It would appear not. Between 'Big Brother', 'The Amazing Race' (where people u-turn their friends), and too-much Reality t.v. shows, like 'The Housewives of New York' - Beverly Hills - Orange County - it doesn't really matter where they originate, they're all Beeatches - and proudly so!!

The moral of today's story is...Yes, there is one person you can always trust. GOD!

On this beautiful sunny Sunday morning, give glory to God. It is the one friendship that will never let you down...never ever in a month of Sundays! He is my 'forever friend' - my leave-me-never friend - and he is yours too!

On that happy note, bye for now, and have fun wherever you may be!

Love,

Polly P xxx

THE KINDNESS BOOMERANG...IT COMES BACK TO YOU!

Now that summer is nearly over, and the shops are full of Thanksgiving turkey stuff, and Halloween cards, they're selling off bikinis and beach stuff for nothing - depressing!! Where did summer go?

Kevin and I decided to head off to the flea market in Langford yesterday, for a last hurrah spending spree. As always, we were filled with anticipation for stuff we really didn't need. Besides, it's SO much fun out there, and the traders are really nice and good humoured. I was thrilled to bits to find my Halloween costume for the princely sum of $3!! I offered the lady $5. I felt $3 was way too little. She was delighted. What, you may ask did I find for $3 to wear at Halloween? She told me I would be 'Priscilla the Desert Princess', so I shall keep you in suspense...suffice to say there is a lot of red and purple in it - and glitter - and fur!! and fleas!! One bit me...aagh!!!

As I was walking past one stall, I overheard a little boy ask a trader "Mister what price is that bicycle over there?" "$20" the man replied. The little boy was very poor looking, and went off with his little shoulders hunched. I could tell he really wanted the bicycle, but could not afford it. A voice inside my head said "get it for him". In an instant, I ran after the little fellow. His dad was waiting for him. They both looked really poor. I gave the little boy the $20 to buy the bicycle. He could not believe his eyes and gave me the biggest smile and ran over for the bike. His dad gave me a special smile which said it all.

I can assure you if I had to buy my Halloween costume anywhere else I would have paid far more than $3 for it!! and far less satisfied, so I could afford to be generous.

After our adventures at the flea market, we headed back into town. We had to post a parcel which turned out to be half the price we had anticipated it would cost. Then after lunch, Kevin surprised me with a scratch card. I ended up winning $14 on it!

The moral of the story - You give some - You get some back!! and the real moral of the story is:

God is Good!

WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND...

Today, just as I was thinking the world has gone absolutely insane, a fellow stopped me in the street and offered me a chocolate cookie. I didn't tell him about my month-off-chocolate challenge, which is almost over (10 days to go!!) Instead, I thanked him profusely, and popped the piece of yum into my bag. He asked me to "pass on the kindness".  It was a simple gesture, and even if he did work for the Island Savings Group, and gave me his business card, I decided not to be cynical, because the world really does need kindness - and the odd free chocolate cookie doesn't hurt. I told him I would indeed 'pass it on' because 'what goes around comes around' - just like a boomerang!

This past week our world has been stunned with yet more bad news - the suicide of Robin Williams, death of one of my favourite American Idols, Michael Johns, at 35 (not suicide), all that nasty stuff going on with ISIS torturing people, and slaughtering innocent women and children - Iraq, Palestine, Syria, Israel, return of the Natzis, etc. Then tonight, when I was about to eat my dinner, an image of an American journalist about to be be-headed in Iraq shot up on the t.v. screen. It was horrendous.

Seeing I couldn't eat my supper (rare for me!!) Kevin decided I needed to be cheered up, and changed the channel. Instead of beheadings, we watched the annual 'Rose of Tralee' beauty pageant from Ireland (much better!). He did his magic, and found it on the internet. O.K. it's not supposed to be about beauty - it's more about brains - so they say...though I'm not entirely convinced, as each and every girl in the pageant is gorgeous, and brainy too!! Yes, it cheered me up, but my daughters ran a mile when I begged them to compete!! I want to be a proud emigrant mammy in the audience in Tralee one day. I tried to bribe Claudia by telling her I would buy her a car - a Porsche no less!! 'No Ma Never!' I needed a good cheesy show like the Rose Pageant to cheer me up.

So the moral of the story is - when the negativity of the world threatens to bring you down - change the channel!! It's simple, but true.

Love,

Polly P xxx

MISSION AQUARIUS HAS BEGUN...

Feel the fear, and do it anyhow! Check out my astro blog  (www.astrocupid.blogspot.ca) with some suggestions on how to apply the current planetary energy to your lives. There is some mighty whacky stuff going down. No, it's not you, though it could be, if you don't work the system, and learn how to play your planetary cards!

We have a full moon in Aquarius on its 'non-conforming' way (Sunday), opposing the sun in powerful Leo, who knows it all - Beware! the Ego hounds are out prowling again... we're right - they're wrong...you know what I mean... O.K. I shall take my own advice, and try and think outside the judgemental box.

Do you know that person who is currently annoying the heck out of you? worrying you? - Wow! maybe it's you all the time...maybe you are to blame for all this current aggro? I'm not saying you are, just suggesting a new way of looking at old devils, which could ease the turmoil within. Aquarius energy is all about looking at new and innovative ways for living our lives. The greatest example being of course Aquarius genius, Eckhart Tolle, author of the mind-exploding book 'The Power of Now'.

As we approach the weekend, I strongly urge y'all to look at your lives, feel the fears, face the old devils...maybe they are not so bad after all...

Force yourself to think of at least one thing good about that person currently annoying you...let softness come in...see them as frail humanoids - just like us.

So for the weekend ahead, dress uniquely, do something totally different, that you have never done before - go on, I dare you! Release the hounds of fear, and mental stagnation...

Have Fun!!

Luv,

Patricia xox

VA VA VOOM VANCOUVER!

It took one and a half sweltering hours, for what is normally a 45 mins. drive, to get from the ferry terminal to downtown Vancouver. Once we hit Robson Street, it was bumper-to-bumper. Crowds everywhere, their unbridled enthusiasm for the Gay Pride Festival, was very much in evidence. The city was a riot of colour, dogs with their fancy tutus, rainbow flags flowing proudly from every pole, and shop windows displaying colourful boas, balloons, and streamers. The city was on fire!!

Saturday night, the sky was an explosion of light. We could see and hear the thundering roar (in between watching a gripping true-life 'who-done-it' murder story) as the fireworks bellowed their way up to the heavens. Fortunately, we could lazily observe it all from our balcony, watch the t.v. and avoid the crowds of people streaming past our condo some two hours before the event, and again, after the event. Not a single quiet moment this past weekend. Do people ever sleep in Vancouver? is a constant question. As for the heat...agh...too hot for me baby!! and it wasn't the flushes, this time we were all inflicted. At least no mosquitos on the 7th floor. They'd crash into the greedy seagulls, or butt heads with the crazy crows. At least the buggers don't bite!! They prefer real food.

It's hard to believe a full year has passed since the last Gay Pride Festival in Vancouver. This year's event seemed longer, louder, and bigger by far. On Sunday morning at the crack of dawn, crowds carrying blankets and chairs began to line up for the parade. Their patience was richly rewarded. Once the clock struck 12.00, the pageant began with great pomp and ceremony. The cheers, whistles and applause from the appreciative crowds was ear-deafening. I kid you not, there wasn't a single boring moment in the two and a half hour extravaganza!

As I watched the procession of exotically clad men and women making their way down Robson, I really admired their guts, determination, and Va Va Voom!! One man, dressed from head-to-toe in orange, stood at least ten feet tall (or so it seemed!) balanced precariously on a pair of very high stilettos, his face glistening with perspiration. "Careful" one lady in the crowd shouted out to him. There was nothing careful about his appearance. Her well-intentioned advice just floated into the sweltering breeze...How on earth did he carry his weight atop these spindles?? Another fellow was dressed as a man from the waist up, and as a very frilly lady, from the waist down. Clever expression of the Yin and Yang within us all.

Canadians by nature are polite, and I would say 'conservative' people. But this past weekend got me thinking a whole lot differently. The parade, which lasted for a pounding two and a half hours, was simply mind-stretching - for want of a better word!! It was a pageant of beautiful peacock-people, boas, bubbles, and balloons, and the most exquisite outfits I have seen in a long time. It would have taken at least all of the past year, to put some of the ensembles together. Now that takes creativity, and a hell-of-a-lot of Va Va VOOM!

Later, when it was all over, the streets were peppered with feathers of every hue and size. It left me with a lasting thought - - Angels really do come in all different colours...and God loves us all.

BFN

Patricia xxx

TROUBLE IN PARADISE!

If you have a moment, between now, and the weekend, please check out my astroblog (www.astrocupid.blogspot.ca) It has some important information. I'm too lazy to write it all again!! There is some rather unpleasant planetary weather on its not-so-merry way. I want to give you the 'head's-up'. If you are hoping for a proposal, or a sign of commitment from your loved one - Forget it!! - not this weekend!

If you are in a domestically violent situation, please do not stir the pot this weekend, and for safety sake, pick your arguments - wisely! We are in for some stormy weather...

Be wise...be warned...and most especially - Be Happy!!

Luv,

Patricia xxx

LIFE IS WONDERFUL...

If you're in the mood for it!!

Well, thanks be, I've been in the mindset for enjoying the goodies out there. Jupiter the happy planet has danced into my 6th house of work and health, and nice things have been happening. It's summer, so I felt I should appreciate the early morning sunshine, and rise and shine.

I changed my walking route from the rustic chip trail, with its gentle hills, and sweet smelling roses, to an ocean view, and it's absolutely beautiful...for a change of scene. It is only 5 mins in the car from our house to get to the Oak Bay Marina. I've noticed that if I do my daily walk - I always have a better day - always!!

For the summer, the Oak Bay Community have placed artistically painted pianos in random places, around the village, and seafront. There is a sign placed on each one which says 'Play Me'. Do they really mean it? If that is the case, I'd need to learn - quickly! Another thing on my bucket list...

Look all around you...read your Community News. I bet there are numerous free fun events to attend over summer, from open-air music events, to art exhibits, street dancing, etc. When I opened my eyes this July, I couldn't believe the vast array of freebies to choose from. We had 3 open air concerts on the lawns in Government House, an annual event held the first three Thursdays in July.

Last Saturday we had Salsa Dancing on the street near the Victoria Art Gallery. The music was supplied by a wonderful Latina group. It was all heart happy stuff. Lulu my chihuahua got up dancing and was chatted up by a hairy looking mongrel, and four Mexican students took her photo. She was a BIG hit!! Simple stuff, but most enjoyable. The annual Busker festival just replaced the Jazz festival...always something on. As long as you're in the mood...to EnJOY!!

I packed a picnic last week, and joined some friends for more free entertainment - on the beach this time. Music was supplied by the fabulous Irish family group 'The O'Brien's' - Daddy O'Brien leading, with his two sons and daughter. They were excellent, and people got up dancing on the grass by the beach - kids, grannies - just like an old fashioned wedding!! The delicious aroma of fries from a nearby Cafe, added to the Spanish holiday ambience.

Yeah, Summer is good, and the livin' is easy... Flea Market season is in full swing, and the weird thing is, I've never once caught a flea there!! Never Ever - only fabulous bargains!!

So, without further ado, get thee to a ...beach, picnic, dog dancing, flea market, farmer's market, consignment shop (Yeah!!) nothing like bargain hunting, musical - whatever makes your heart sing and dance. Don't think about it - Just do it!!

Something to chew chew on...

Love,

Patricia xxx

AS ABOVE SO BELOW

If you want to know the  reason why people of late have been all shook up...simply look to the stars. O.K. I agree, there is nothing simple about people's unhappiness. Life throws us all different flavoured lemons. We need to get creative with the juice we produce!! Astrology does provide some clues for me as to why people are being pulled in every direction. Here goes...

The two powerhouse planets - Pluto and Uranus - have been at loggerheads since 2012. Uranus is in go-gettem, impatient, impulsive Aries, and Pluto, the master of the underworld, is in cautious, shrewd Capricorn. Several times over the past two years they have been squaring off against each other and power struggles between nations and people are the end result. Just like the moon affects the tides and our moods - ya better believe it - so too do Pluto and Uranus cause major world wars within us. If you have a prominent Pluto and Uranus in your chart...Ouch!!

Many people have been making major changes in their lives, and if they haven't already done this, they sure are wanting to... Pluto is the planet of major transformation - within and without. The last time Pluto was conjunct Uranus was in the sixties. Baby Boomers will remember the sixties, and know exactly what I mean.

Do you want to change something desperately about your life? New job? New home? New relationship? New body? New country? Is there somebody being really stubborn at the moment? Do you feel like life is throwing you one challenge after the other? AS ABOVE SO BELOW...

Be patient - Be courageous - and Just do it!! By the end of this challenging Pluto/Uranus shake-up, our lives can be transformed for the good. YOU have from now until March 2015 to make those changes...

Something to Chew Chew on!!

Love,

Patricia xxx

LIFE IS STRANGE...

Yesterday, I received a beautiful handwritten letter from my little boy in Africa. His name is Charlie, and I call him my son, even though we have never met. Maybe one day...!! Anyway, Charlie, who is only ten years old is a very smart little fellow. He told me he was learning Good Manners, Morality, and Spirituality at school. I was gobsmacked - literally!!

Here we are in a so-called 'civilized' society, yet we are in dire need of some lessons in the above-mentioned - Good Manners, Morality and Spirituality. Charlie is learning the merits of same...Good work Charlie!!

Thank you cards are a thing of the past (except for Charlie). People cancel appointments at the drop of a hat, honk their horns, give the 'finger up' for any kind of 'inconvenience', as I witnessed on the road recently. This morning I was listening to a radio show which discussed 'Farts' of all things...Farts in all their magnitude and stinkiness, and how helpful it was to have a dog you could blame for such emissions!! Funny, but I mean that's no kind of conversation for a lady...Can you imagine Darcy and Elizabeth discussing farts in 'Pride and Prejudice'?

As for that cringe-inducing toilet paper ad....It takes place at a speed dating centre. A girl sits at a table with two toilet rolls in her hand and asks the man facing her "So how do you clean your bum?" to which he responds "with my fingers". She is shocked. Then he adds "and paper of course". Can you imagine Juliet calling "Where art thou Romeo?" and his response "Cleaning my bum..." What would Shakespeare think of us 21st century vulgarians?

To add insult to injury, I heard the news that sadistic murderer and rapist, Paul Bernardo (google him and look at his eerie eyes!!) has now acquired a new woman. Apparently, she believes he is innocent. Her distraught parents are begging her to change her mind. She has been writing to him in prison and wants to marry him. The same girl has a University degree and apparently has a brain.

So what is missing in all of the above?

Yeps - Good Manners, Morality and Spirituality.

Chew Chew on it...

BFN

Patricia xxx

YEAH! SUMMER IS FINALLY HERE...

As soon as the Canada Day fireworks light up the sky, I know summer is here! July 1st was a glorious riot of red and white t-shirts, garlands, face paint, sunshine and smiles. The only dark moment was saying goodbye to our darling Victoria who is now in Vancouver, about to start a whole new chapter in her life...I am happy for her, as the best is yet to come, D.V.

Ali has started her new dream job with a travel and lifestyle magazine. I wish I was her!! By sheer geographical co-incidence, her office in gastown is right beside the restaurant where my Godson Edmund worked when he was in Canada some years ago - small world!!

It is a time of new beginnings for us all...and the time is right for change. In solidarity with Victoria, I have joined her in my decision to become 100% vegetarian, and so far so good!! Protein juices, laced with fresh fruit are my go-to place for energy. If the truth be known I'm a better vegetarian cook than I am with meat - it's far less greasy, easier to clean up after, cheaper, lasts longer in the fridge. Let's see how long it will last...

Back playing golf this morning...my kind of game!! When I find a stray ball on my morning walk, I make the boys sweat for it - trust me - they love it!! "O.K. boys, think of a number between one and ten... and it's all yours". It adds to the game. I usually aim for the senior citizens, as they value their balls. What is it about 'free' stuff? They line up for miles outside the library when free books are being given away. The last gay parade I attended I was knuckled out of the way by an elderly gent trying to catch free condoms!!

Tonight, the first of three free concerts will be happening up the street from us in Government House. This is an annual event. People drive from miles around, and bring picnics. Kevin loves his music but feels with the freebies "you get what you pay for..." I'm heading up for a bit of free action tonight.

Brought Chi Chi to her beautician Sherry today, and she came back a new dog! Wish I had done it much sooner...Now she looks like a chihuahua, and an adorable one at that.

Enjoy the Sunshine and go see Melissa McCarthy in 'Tammy'. May see you there!!

Choo Choo for now!

Love,

Patricia xxx

THINK YOU CAN CHANGE A LIGHT BULB?

Not so easy...in fact downright dangerous! Why would anyone install such a crazy light fixture? I asked myself in frustration yesterday as I tried to change a lightbulb in our condo bathroom. In fact it would be a brilliant challenge for the 'Amazing Race' contestants. The light fixture had been bugging me for ages. There were four bulbs missing and I could see why; it takes a good hour to change one. Firstly, I had to balance myself precariously near the sink, then remove two side panels and 8 screws. After that was done, I had to wipe the sweat from my palms, and one by one remove more than 20 delicate crystal wands to finally reach the burnt out bulb. As I was doing it, I wondered what the heck the previous owners were thinking when choosing such a complicated fixture.

Suddenly I had a light bulb moment! The problem wasn't the light fixture; it was me. I was too darn impatient. In fact since I arrived in Vancouver on Monday, I've noticed the whole world - not just me - have been galloping around like headless horses. Have you noticed the impatience? On the roads - especially on the roads!! In the shops, waiting to be served, waiting for food (4 mins is the max people are prepared to wait for fast food), waiting for that phone call back, waiting for traffic to move. We were stuck in heavy traffic yesterday. I noticed the young woman in the car behind me had a look on her face that would curdle milk. Why so angry? The roadworks were unavoidable. 

So twenty years ago when my bathroom fixture was installed, the world was obviously a calmer place, and the people who chose it, clearly enjoyed crosswords and sudoku.

Who's at fault? The light fixture? My impatience? or the world that's rushing me?

Have a peaceful day,

Luv,

Polly P xxx 

POLLY IS BACK!!

I brought Polly with me on holidays to Vegas, and since our return she will not shut up!! No, she's as high as a kite; must have been all those cowboys we met in Fremont. We are already planning the next trip...

We returned to a beautiful sunny Victoria, which compares favourably to Las Vegas...though for very different reasons. Instead of cowboys, we have gigolos here. What's the difference? Good question. 'Cowboy' is a negative term used in Ireland for men of ill repute. Hope that explains... Though I know the song "Save a horse ride a cowboy" does not do justice to the honourable cowboys who make a living rounding up cattle, and toiling in the great outdoors.

I love living in a  tourist destination. Last night Kevin and I became tourists in our own town. We dined in Earl's and later strolled down Government Street, along with the hundreds of visiting tourists.

We stopped for ice-cream in our favourite cafe, and sat in our own special seat, with a bird's eye view of the Empress Hotel and inner harbour. Licking our yummy ice cream cones, we enjoyed observing all the holidaymakers with happy smiles and cameras. The horses and carriages were kept busy with blushing brides and contented grooms.  Cash registers were busy cha-ching...ing, and the world was at peace.

The city was thronged because of the long Victoria Day weekend. Today there will be the annual parade, and we could not have had nicer weather. Luck is on our side. Kevin and I went to our beloved flea market yesterday, and returned with the car full of hanging baskets and flowers of every hue for the garden. While Kevin was busy getting the garden ready for summer, I had a ton of ironing to catch up on. The joys of life...

Energised by Vegas, I bulldozed my way into the wardrobe; banished all my winter clothes into the basement, and brought up all my bright, sunny, happy summer clothes. If the truth be known, I do prefer the summer colours. I spent hours and now my wardrobe is looking as happy as Pollyanna!

Colours of the same hue hang out together. My wardrobe is now a riot of colour  - lime greens, hot pinks, sunshine yellow, fuchsia, tangerine, midnight blue, snow white and flattering blacks. I did the same with the shoes, scarves and bags. I've never been this organized, and boy does it ever feel great. I just love the time it saves in the morning, and the joy it brings seeing everything look so cheerful. At the same time, I did a big clear out, and maybe that too will bring a smile to somebody's face.

That's it for now! Better fly to get the bathroom cleaned, and the bed made, and Lulu her walk, and the ten washes into the washing machine, and the dishwasher emptied, and the supermarket for tonight's supper, and the post off to mum, and...

Love you lots!!

Polly P xxx

VIVA LAS VEGAS!!

If you've never been to Disneyland and feel a tinge of childhood deprivation, dry your tears. A trip to Vegas will put everything right. My belief in the kindness of strangers was completely validated and my happy tank fully charged! Along with Hawaii and Disneyland, it has to be one of the most entertaining places on earth. I was there for a week, but left wanting more...

Sure, the Vegas stereotypes were all on view - sleazy fellows with hairy chests donning '70's attire, showgirls, strippers, bright neon lights, quickie-wedding chapels, feathers, pictures of naked women floating in the air like confetti, brides-to-be wearing wedding veils and making noise, casinos, and bars opened 24/7. I expected all that. After all 'Sin City' didn't get the title for nothing!

The billboards warned "Before going to Las Vegas you need your physician's approval, before leaving, you need your Psychiatrist's".  Who would have thought that on a Vegas bus, I would have had a deeply spiritual conversation with a complete stranger. As they say - anything goes. Vegas variety is the spice of life! Talking about transport, a three day bus pass costs $20, and is the cheapest and most interesting way to get around the city. They also had the monorail which seemed too complicated in the heat. It's hard to get out of a taxi for less than $15. $20-$30 is their preferred amount. Some will offer free t.v.'s

Everything in LV seems to be 'super sized'. The hot dogs are twice the size, chickens, boobs, fries, diet yogurt - even the blessed eucharist! We went to mass on the Sunday and what an eye-opener. Before the ceremony began, the priest asked us to turn to our neighbour and introduce ourselves. "Say hello Folks and tell them where you're from". Music helped ease the initial awkwardness.

We were royally entertained by a seven piece orchestra, complete with violins, drums, trumpet, piano, and a tenor, who was a mix between Elvis and Daniel O'Donnell. His heavenly voice would bring tears to a stone. When it came time to receive the host, it was so huge I gagged on it. Twice the size. My neighbour couldn't take his hand off his wife's thigh, and with the other hand was massaging her back. I found it distracting. It must have been the singing. He slithered off before the second collection.

Everybody likes to party in Vegas. People are happy just being, and want to share their happiness. As a tourist, we're all included in the big Vegas party. If you want to experience some hands-on-fun, take a bus to Fremont, the original 'Vegas' where it all began some sixty years ago. You'll see all the original storefronts and neon signs. In addition, you can join the revellers for some groovy dancing. Scantily clad Show Girls dance on the tables, but ordinary tourists do it on the streets. It was charming to watch all the generations dancing, from tiny tikes to grannies, and every age in-between. We took our cue from a cowgirl who doubled as a DJ. Her favourite song was "Save a horse, ride a cowboy". I couldn't stop singing it.

Our Vegas vacation got off to a great start when our hotel, the Hilton holiday suites (Las Vegas Blvd.) superceded our expectations. It was voted the most luxurious place we had ever stayed. May is a great time to travel, as it is considered low season, and you can snap up fantastic deals. For less than $4,000 our 5 flights were covered, plus the accommodation, and free breakfast each morning. The breakfast was available any time you wanted, and there was a choice. We opted for the toasted bagels filled with cheese, ham, bacon, eggs to your taste. Vegetarians were also catered for. You had bottles of juice, as well as tea or coffee. It kept you going. They had a Starbucks from where you received your specialty coffees and teas. Fantastic deal all around.

Our accommodation comprised two large bedrooms and bathrooms, plus a queen pull-out couch in the living room. Three large flat screened t.v.'s (more than we have at home!!) The master bedroom had a Cleopatra-style sunken jacuzzi tub, walking distance from the cavernous bed. Bathrooms were dripping in marble. The master shower had all those faucets that come at you from everywhere, giving a real luxurious feel. Kitchen had marble countertops, huge fridge, microwave, gorgeous shiny plates and glasses, and big generous dining table. It's too bad we couldn't find decent food to put in the fridge. Finding shops that sell healthy food is a challenge. If we never ventured outside our hotel, we could still have a great holiday.

The swimming pools were divine, (S-shaped pools), surrounded by large, shady palm trees. We'd hit the pool in the morning, breakfast in hand, before the dry desert air got too warm. Temperatures some days were 29 degrees, though in July and August, it can soar up to the 40's and higher!! I am comfortable in the low to mid 20's, so would prefer May or September/October for visiting this desert paradise.

The Hotels were a destination in themselves. Fabulous, glamorous, larger-than-life opulence. Unfortunately, you cannot avoid the thousands of casinos housed within them. They pay the Vegas taxes, so are a big part of the Hotel scene. The marble floored boutiques sold many of the luxury brands, such as Prada, Dior, Stella McCartney, Dolce & Gabbana, and Louis Vuitton, to name but a rich few. If you can believe our taxi driver, Las Vegas has 19 of the largest hotels in the world!! I believe him.

Our top five favourites were Caesar's Palace (free Atlantis shows there on the the hour), Bellaggio (fab flowers and butterfly garden), Wynns (Steve Wynn is Donald Trump's biggest competitor in the luxury hotel department), the Cosmopolitan (for its sleek modern architecture), and last, but certainly not least, the Venetian. You need never visit the real Venice. The Vegas version, along with the gondola rides was equally impressive - well maybe a tad tacky. Tacky is party of the Vegas charm. They do it in a charming, lovable way. The Eiffel Tower is also pretty impressive, and a lot easier to climb than the original version in Paris.

If you went to Vegas hoping to see some culture, the charm of the place will offset your disappointment, as well as a few good shows. We sent to see 'Vegas the Show' and Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil, both of which were excellent. A trip to the desert was another culturally rich experience. We spent a day in 'Death Valley about two hour's drive from the city. Long ago when the gold prospectors went in search of gold, one in five never returned, due to the heat. That's how they came up with 'Death Valley'. Temperatures recorded in the summer are the hottest in the world, rising up to 51 degrees. Dubai would be similar.

Due to the winding roads, large buses cannot drive there, so you can only get a smaller bus which fits 12 people max. This makes for an expensive day trip at approx. $200 per person, which includes breakfast and lunch. In retrospect, it was worth the visit, and very interesting landscape to see. At times it felt like you were in a spaceship on Mars, or extras on a Western movie. Especially when our driver played the theme song from 'The good the bad and the ugly'. Such a contrast to lively, buzzing Las Vegas next door!

En route, we passed some interesting ghost towns. Our last stop on the way home (to put gas in the bus and use the facilities at the 'Tumbleweed' pub) was in a one-horse town called 'Pahrump'. The driver warned us "the toilets are scary". When you walked in, everybody at the bar turned and stared. The two Australian guys on our tour ventured in first "there's four men in there and three teeth". I'll not easily forget 'Tumbleweed' and Pahrump.

And for that matter, I'll not easily forget Las Vegas. I'm in love and I'm all shook up!

Love and kisses,

Patricia xxx