Quoutable Quote: Children seldom misquote you. In fact, they usually repeat word for word what you shouldn't have said. --Unknown

Ten Pin Bowling



Last night as I was cooking dinner for Andy I decided that we needed to get out and do something for a change. Waiting for this divorce to come through, and for the children to settle is a bit stressful, and sitting around night after night isn't doing much to improve our mood. All day I had been snappish and craggy to Andy and decided for once that I was gonna do something to change my emotional state. So, I cooked him a nice dinner and we went bowling. Bowling here is called 10 Pin Bowling, done in Fred Flintstone style. Andy used to be in a league and even owns his own ball and shoes. After haggling him a bit about that, we began bowling and actually had a lot of fun. The first ball I threw was a strike, unfortnuately the rest of my game left a lot to be desired. Andy finished one game with a score of 177 - the highest I've ever seen anyone score, lol. Thankfully that was the one game where I made it to 100 myself.

So, What Part of the States are you from???

Last night I was asked that question by the fellow bowling next to us. I smiled and said "I'm not". Leaving him grasping for something to say. Now don't get me wrong, I don't get annoyed when people mistake me for American - they don't really know any better, and in all honesty, most North Americans can't tell the difference between the Scottish and English brogue (myself not included). However I usually correct them right away but last night I was in a playful mood and wanted to see what he would say... eventually I told him where I was from and Andy and I ended up having a nice conversation with him and his wife. When I went to the bar the female bartender commented on my accent as well, saying that my accent wasn't familiar. It's funny to be the one with an accent, well a real one that is - I spent almost my whole time in downtown Halifax clubs imitating another accent, be it Irish, or my most common, Southern. Here I find myself with an actual accent, and its my own. Go figure.

At this point, I am proud to say that I am Canadian, I would never chose to be anything else. Thankfully I'm living in a country where I will be able to have dual citizenship when the time comes, because I would never consider giving up my Canadian status.

After all....

I AM CANADIAN

For the Love of....




Our Friday plans to go to Nottingham for dinner with Andy's family (his sister lives there) were cancelled as Andy's father was in hospital this weekend with gallbladder problems (he is now home). Andy and I decided that we would drive the hour to Leeds, a city that happens to have an IKEA, which I was thrilled about as we didn't have one in Nova Scotia and I certainly didn't expect there to be one here! We spent at least an hour browsing the store and choosing a number of items. I was very pleased to see alot of the same items from the Ontario Store, however it was neat to see the UK variations. The prices were similarly costed, however I still think the Canadian stores work out to be a bit cheaper. After we finished shopping, I had the choice of picking what restaurant we were gonna have supper in. These choices were heaven to me after being in the English countryside for over 2 months, as they included a few American restaurants such as TGI Friday's and a popular American Mexican restaurant chain (I can't remember the name, lol) but let me tell you I went with the Mexican place and I was not disappointed. After four margaritas, an appetizer of nachos, main dish of fajitas and dessert of deep fried ice-cream, lets just say I was definitely satisfied.... and for the record, we will be making the trip back to Leeds before too long!

My Get Up and Go, Got Up and WENT



I've just gotten back from the gym and a much over-do, much needed workout. I don't know what's gotten into me this past week, but I've let myself go, eating-wise and gym-wise, however I'm only 2 lbs. the worse for it, and back on track. I will be trying my utmost to remain focused! It's just so damn hard, especially on the weekends!


Did I Hear Someone Say SNOW????




I feel sorry for all you suckers back home in Nova Scotia! Did I miss being home last week??? NOPE.... although I would like to be home to see the mountainous snowbanks and snow covered streets, I am not sorry that I wasn't snow bound at home, or at work for 2-3 days straight! I'm also not sorry I didn't have to break my back shovelling a TON of snow. For those of you that had to do that, I am truly sorry for you, especially if you had to do it alone, I know that isn't fun. I suppose it was alright for those of you who couldn't get into work, or school, but maybe after all the shovelling, you would have preferred it!

The Cabbage Craze



My sister Tawny and I were talking about something the other day, and as a result Cabbage Patch Kids were mentioned. It got me thinking, has there ever been a craze as intense as the quest for every little girl, and sometimes boy, to adopt this much desired, funny looking doll who comes fully equipped with yarn hair, a name and adoption papers? The Cabbage Patch Adoption Agency also gave you the right to change your child's name if it was not acceptable as my sister Sandra did. I know that stores were selling these toys off as fast as they were coming in, sometimes they didn't even make them into the stores, but were sold right off the trucks. The wait for these creatures sometimes took weeks, even months. I can proudly say that I was the 3rd girl in my 5th grade glass to receive one - and it was all down to my Aunt Marg... she was the one who managed to get three, where from, I don't know... but she managed it! I remember the night she came in the house with a huge bag - my sisters and I knew what they were immediately and happily grabbed into the bag and pulled out a box, whatever one we pulled we had to keep. I was pleased to see my little girl - she had red hair in braids and pretty blue eyes - she was wearing a yellow dress. Her name was Rena Evangeline. I still have her. Tawny's doll had red hair in two pig-tails and green eyes, Sandra's was the only brunette, sporting one ponytail. I have to say, all dolls the were pretty nice-looking, but I have to say, I thought mine was the best... LOL, but I think every mother thinks that don't they?

I really don't think anything since, i.e. Teenage Mutant Nina Turtles, Game-Boys, etc. has topped the frenzied Cabbage Patch Craze of the 1980's. Gawd.

Marriage Thoughts

Well since the divorce is drawing near, I tend to find myself, strangely enough, thinking about the kind of wedding me and my love will have. Hmmmm... I've always dreamt of getting married on a beach somewhere, however being so far from home, and having so many loved ones supporting me from 4000 miles away, tends to make me think I might just want to get married at HOME.... now don't get me wrong, the thought of actually getting married freaks me out a little... I can't lie. Although I know that Andy is the man for me, and I look forward to us being a married couple some day, I sometimes get a little anxious when I think of the actual service, the actual fact that once you say I DO, its done... no going back. Also, if I do tie the knot at home, it will be fairly big of course as all my family and close friends will be invited. Sadly, not friends of my friends, or neighbor's, etc. but the people who are actually involved in my life. It's just the though of planning something that does my head in. And let me tell you, I can promise you, everything would be done as simple as possible. No big traditional NS wedding for me...

Tuesday Twosome

1. Is your role model someone famous or not? - Who is your role model?I don't really have one role model... I basically tend to admire traits in various people and look up to them for that. Also it depends on the situation. My mother would have to be my role model in regards to mothering skills. She's very sensible and was a wonderful mom to us growing up... she still is.

2. Which is more important to you: Actions or words? Actions... words can be taken back or ignored. The phrase 'actions speak louder than words' does make sense more often than not.

3. Do you forgive easily or hold a grudge? I can forgive someone easily if what they've done is minor, however if someone does me a wrong in a major big way, it would take me a long time to forgive them - and it'd depend on my relationship with that person.

4. What is the last lie you told? The last little lie I told was on the weekend when I told the kids I was 28 - shame on me! The last big lie I told was when I came here and told a certain officer that Andy was free to marry. OOPS.

What is the last lie someone told you? I'm not really sure... I think people tell me little lies all the time, such as I look good when I don't... Wayne tried to tell me a little lie when his twins were born - he tried telling me they were girls.

5. Would you rather be with someone for the wrong reason or alone for the right reason?Alone for the right reason... I've never been afraid of not being in a relationship.

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY



Today, I would like to say Happy Birthday to Sheila - a lady who is one of the strongest and best women I know, not to mention a superb cook! Have a wonderful day with your family Chef McLaughlin! I miss you!

Today is also Andy's Dad - Dave's, Birthday... I wish him all the best and look forward to celebrating with him this afternoon!

And last but not least, tomorrow is my very very special girl Annette's (aka Downtown Annette Brown) birthday! I wish I could be at home to celebrate with you Angel, however I know that you are surrounded by love and those at home will make your Birthday and Valentines Day the best it can possibly be for you! (I'll be thinking of you all weekend long, cause I know that's how long the party will last!)

It's Been 10 Years...

Happy Anniversary



Yesterday marked 10 years for my very dear friends Tim and Roisin. They have come so far since that bright sunny day in February when they pledged their love for each other... I still remember it like it was only yesterday. Now they have not only their love to celebrate, but their two beautiful children, Gavin and Hannah! Happy Anniversary my friends!




Tomorrow brings Valentine's Day to all those around the world who are romantic at heart, or maybe for those who just need a little excuse to get a little 'luvin', lol. We have the kids this weekend, so I can't say my first Valentine's Day with Andy will be overly romantic but that's ok with me. Andy more than made up for it last year when I was surprised at work with a delivery of beautiful flowers and a dynamite 'outfit' from La Senza! I think it made it all the more special because we were apart, if you can believe that! Instead, we are going on a road trip with the children to Yorkshire. Andy has a few special events in mind, however he's not letting me in on any of it!

Besides, Valentines Day isn't only about romance, its about love.... not just that for your partner, but your friends, and family too. One thing I will really be missing tomorrow though is the Valentine's Ice-Cream Cake from Dairy Queen that Mom has been buying for the last few years, lol. Yummy.

Movie Withdrawal

When I was over at my pal's website, I noticed the 'Which Classic Movie Are You' Quiz and decided to take it too, for a laugh. Ironically, I'd say that the one I ended up with is pretty good. I am easy going and laid back for the most part. However, speaking of movies I find myself patiently awaiting for ones to be released here that have already been released in Canada. For instance, I only got to see Something's Gotta Give on Friday Night, the night of its release in England- February 6th. It's release date in Canada was December 12th. I'm used to seeing movies on a regular basis and believe me, this is not easy. I figure that in about two months time I should be ok, that every movie released over here will be new to me as well. Right now, all that is available are things I've seen back in October/November.

What Classic Movie Are You?

Familiar Faces

I'm beginning to feel more connected with the community I live in. I suppose this is because I'm getting to know some of the locals, or at least the people that work in the shops around me. But its instances like the ones I've experienced this week that really make you feel a part of things. While shopping in town the other day, I actually recognized the guy from the Estate Agents who showed us a house once, and then yesterday while on the bus coming back from the gym, I saw a lady whom I've spoken to once before at the bus stop. Immediately we smiled and said hello and she asked if I was coming from the gym. (The last time I saw her I was on my way there, lol). It's the little things sometimes that make a difference.



However... the past week has been a good one for me, and it's been even better because I've had almost daily contact with my pal Roisin from home (mostly due to the birth of my new cousins, lol). Talking to her as if she was only up the road is really nice. I'm glad that the long distance phone rates have become more reasonable with the passing of time. I remember a time when it was a huge deal to call someone in another province, never mind overseas.

TWIN BOYS



Yesterday my very dear cousin Wayne, and his wife Jen, became the proud parents of two baby boys... Brendan Francis and Lucas Julian, who weighed 4 pounds 11 oz, and 4 pounds 1 oz, respectively. I'm so excited and happy for Wayne and Jen and the family, and only wish that I could be there to hold and cuddle the boys. However for the near future, I will have to be content with pictures! (This is when I wish Wayne and Jen were more internet/digital camera folk). Anyway, babies, mom and dad are all happily content.



I Wish...

I seem to spend a lot of my time wishing for things that I cannot immediately have, or at least will have a while to wait for. Some of the things I wish, or have wished for are reasonable i.e. to be with Andy, for his divorce to hurry up and come through, for my family to remain healthy. Some of the things I've wished for are very unlikely to happen, especially considering I'm not willing to do much to see the wish pass into fruition i.e. to be very rich, or very slim. Although in my defense, I don't think I'm built to be very slim, maybe fit and neat looking, but not a size 6 or anything - I'd have to practically starve myself for that, and quite frankly - I'm not willing to do that - but I would be very happy to be size 9/10, one size down. I remember as I child I used to wish for the really bizarre and unnatural things as I'm sure most children must. I longed to be able to fly - and on really windy days I wished that the wind would be able to give me the extra boost I needed. At other times I yearned to be a mermaid in the sea. Strange maybe, but I thought the serenity of living under the sea would be awesome, not to mention that I would be able to speak to and swim with dolphins. I thought the idea of being a mermaid was very romantic. Maybe it was more the idea of being something unique? Who knows why we had such extraordinary fantasies as children. I also wish that I could spend less time wishing for what I don't have, and be content with what I DO have, lol.

As you are probably wondering why I'm even off on this tangent, its to say that I'm going to try and make a concerted effort to make some of my wishes/dreams come to pass. As soon as I can, I'm going to see about learning to speak another language, preferably Spanish. I have also always wanted to become a writer, and now that I have some extra time on my hands, I might just try and write something, even if it never gets read by anyone other than myself. After that, we'll see about the piano....

Eat; drink; and be merry; for tommorrow you may not be able to afford it.
--Unknown

Justice WILL Be Served Finally... or so it seems
To make a long story short - On Wednesday the judge informed the Ex. Mrs. that as she originally filed for divorce, and as there is not outstanding reason for the delay, and considering Mr. Allenby wishes to remarry - she has seven days to sign the Decree Absolute. If she doesn't then Mr. Allenby can sign, meaning the divorce should be finalized in approxametly two weeks. Would we all assume that this makes the writer and editor of this page a happy girl?

When Mr. Allenby has the divorce papers in his hands, it's needless to say, the two of us will be cheerfuly and wonderfully drunk!




Friday Five


1. What's the most daring thing you've ever done? God... I've done a lot of daring things in my life, some that might be considered downright STUPID. However the most daring thing I've done in a long time is quit my job and leave my home to move to England in the name of love.

2. What one thing would you like to try that your mother/friend/significant other would never approve of? Hmmm. I've tried mostly everything that I've wanted to that my loved ones would dissaprove of, lol.

3. On a scale of 1-10, what's your risk factor? (1=never take risks, 10=it's a lifestyle) 8/9

4. What's the best thing that's ever happened to you as a result of being bold/risky? Some damn good sex! Oh, I have to say Skydiving was a wicked experience too. But in all seriousness, finding serenity with the love of my life has to take top place.

5. ... and what's the worst? Amazingly, most of the really crazy things I've done have turned out in my favour. However the worst thing was leaving my job and family/friends in Canada - but hey, that's not forever, now is it - so if that's the worst, I'm doing ok.