And then there was five...

When my mom had me she wasn’t married to my dad. For all accounts it was just me and her (and a gaggle of aunts who seemingly fought over me). It was a very real possibility that I might end up being an only child. However that was not to be.

When I was two and a half, mom married dad and a few months later came the arrival of my sister Tawny. I think she was a prettier baby than me, with dark curly hair and big brown eyes. Mom said I wasn’t a jealous big sister and I was happy to share with her although there were apparently times when I did give her the odd pinch (sorry!); more often than not I was pleased about the baby, so much so that once mom found me trying to stuff her into my doll’s crib – my own baby. Tawny was creative and agreeable, often following me from place to place – once following me out of the apartment at 7 am on a Saturday morning in our night dresses; another time she packed her bags with me to run God knows where when we were visiting our Nan one summer when I was eight and she was six; Thank goodness she wizened up to following me around – I was going nowhere fast evidently!

A few years later came another sister during my parent’s quest to have a son. Because Sandra has never conformed, it was only logical that she was not a boy. She had red hair and a fiery personality to match. Unlike Tawny and I, she wasn’t so agreeable and certainly marched to her own drummer, strong and independent. She was quick to say I hate you, but even quicker to say I love you.  Sandra definitely threw some variety into the mix. When there is a crisis, she's always there.

Finally, when I was nine, mom successfully gave my father his namesake. Turns out though, that John with his big liquid brown eyes and disgustingly beautiful long lashes shares only his name with dad; From all that mom has told us, I believe he is much more in nature like our maternal grand-father than our own. John is obviously a man that grew up surrounded by females: he is quiet, gentle, respectful and knows when to dissapear. If he ever marries he will have one lucky wife.

That was supposed to be it.

Although we had moved from an apartment to a house after dad left the navy, I was still sharing a room with my two sisters when at the age of 11, mom made the proclamation that there would be one more. I freaked out. I knew it would be a girl and that there would be four of us crammed into one little room.

But I was wrong (and right):

Mom and Dad built Tawny and I a room of our own downstairs and the following May came our very last sister. My parents had promised I could name the dark-haired baby with the pretty birth mark on her cheek and I chose Stacy (she is so not a Jennifer or Susan – what my father wanted). Because I was 12 and by then very used to babies, having had lots of practice with John and my cousins, mom let me have almost free reign with Stacy. She kind of became my own baby and rather than put her into a doll’s carriage, mom let me take her for long walks in her pram. I used to love taking our sweet natured little sister, with the softest voice you can imagine out for walks and to my school to show her off. By the time she was a toddler Tawny and I were spoiling her at every chance we could. She was our baby – she still is in so many ways although now a beautiful, confident young woman.

We are now all grown and settling into our adult lives. Most of us remain close, friends even, although a few of us are very far apart in geographical terms. We’ve had the usual family fall-outs but we always manage to pull together; Never more so than these last few months of mom’s illness.

I was watching Sense and Sensibility the other night (one of my favourite Austin adaptations) and it got me thinking about the relationships between siblings, sisters especially. How fortunate are we to have this incredible bond that will last us a lifetime no matter what is thrown at us?  I adore our amazing and flawed tribe and I couldn’t imagine what my life would have been like without them. Sure we have had our differences and I’m certain there are a few more brewing on the horizon, but we always recover and come back to what’s important – the friendships, the laughter, the love.

Stacy, Sandra, John, Me and Tawny (with our Clara on board)

Cupcakes & Change

Come the first week in July I will have been in my new job for one year. I know we all say it but time seems to be passing by so quickly. This time last year I was trying to get my head around a multitude of issues: I was missing my mother and Aunt Nita who had just returned to Canada, I was trying to get used to the idea that Polar, our beloved family dog was not going to be there to greet me anymore upon my holidays home to mom & dads, and I was beginning to despair that I wouldn’t find another job anytime soon. A week later and that all changed as I was offered this full time job. Full-time was anathema to me - I hadn’t worked full-time in over six years and I liked my part-time hours, they gave me the freedom to have long walks with Molly, to get in a work out during the day and best of all lunch and shop with Beryl. Yet I couldn’t refuse based on the hours – I needed to work and no part-time jobs were coming up. Besides it was a great opportunity career wise, and as Andy was no longer working away the extra money would come in handy.

So here it is a year later and professionally, it’s been a good year. I fit in well with this team; a team full of professionalism, respect and yes, most importantly support. I honestly believe that this team is where is will stay. However next week we are moving into a new building which will have so many benefits, mainly that the team will be together, not spread over 2-3 locations. Myself and my boss have been situated at the hospital site in a beautiful, listed building that I will hate to leave;  our new location will take me around 20 minutes to get to and now it only takes me around seven (those of you who commute an hour+ feel free to roll your eyes now); but it’s the admin gals that I don’t want to say good bye to most of all. We get on so well and even though they are technically not part of my team I shall miss them. We share a lot of laughs, a few recipes and a couple of gripes. One of the best perks of being with the girls is Dee bakes the loveliest cupcakes – delicious, moist, melt in your mouth cupcakes that are so beautifully decorated you don’t want to eat them. But you do. Oh how you do. (Thankfully its not a weekly event or I would be a lot heavier). We’ve decided though that we will meet up for a drink after work from time to time, and of course I will soon be hanging out in Dee’s kitchen trying to learn the basics of icing cakes because come September the two of us will be taking a cake-decorating course.

I think what’s bugging me (but only slightly) is that I yet again have to move offices and yet again meet new people that I have to share an office with. This will be the fifth time I’ve changed work locations (not jobs) since I moved here. Is it any wonder that I run into people I know wherever I go in this town? Gone are the days when I could dash to the grocery store in my sweats and not worry about being seen by someone I know (like I ever really worried about that anyway). Beryl often makes the comment that I’ve met more people here in 6.5 years than she’s met in 30. I suppose it was a good thing when I agreed to move 4000 miles to be with my love that I wasn’t the shy and reticent type.

Don't tell me you wouldn't look...

On Friday evening as I was cleaning the ensuite bathroom Andy came to find me (he'd been ironing in the back room).  This is how the conversation played out:

Andy: Jods, the guy in the house behind us is having it on with his girlfriend - in the kitchen.

Me:  What?  What are you on about?- you're just putting me on.  Besides, he has a wife (well I think they are married).

Andy: I'm not lying honest, go look.  Besides his wife left ages ago, he has a new girlfriend and he's doing her on the kitchen table.

Me:  How do you know that?  Geez you seem to know a lot about what the neighbours get up to, you nosy parker.

Andy:  I can't help it if I spend a lot of time in this room and can see directly into his house!  Anyway, go look...

I went to Connor's room to have a look and could see nothing. It was dark in the kitchen across the way and very difficult to see anything, never mind what Andy was describing.

I went back into my bedroom and carried on with my cleaning.

Andy (who came back in around five minutes later):  Well, did you see them?

Me:  No - I didn't see anything!  They are NOT doing that in the kitchen, I knew you were making it up.

He then proceeded to get me to follow him into the  back spare room, as apparently Connor's room wasn't the right angle for seeing down into the neighbour's kitchen.  He told me to watch for the white t-shirt the guy had on;  Yup, there he was going at it with his girlfriend.  You couldn't see much, but it was obvious.

Me:  Oh my God... I can't believe it.  I still don't know how you managed to see it, you'd miss it if you blinked.

Andy:  I was ironing and it was more obvious when they started... oh and get back from the window, if he looks up he will see you.

Me (as I back up slightly):  I don't care, he shouldn't be in plain view if he doesn't want an audience.  Get me the binoculars would ya?' 

Andy:  Jods!  You can't do that!  You're so bold!.

Me:  Well its your fault, you showed me!  Besides, you're so nosy.  I was just going about my cleaning and minding my own business.  Now I'm looking at our neighbours get it on... 

(A minute or so later I went back to cleaning my bathroom as there really was't much to see.)

About 15 minutes later Andy was outside getting ready to mow the lawn and I went to find him to see what he wanted for dinner and I noticed the couple were now out in the garden playing with the girlfriend's dog.  (She definitely wasn't the gal who used to live with him, wife or not.)  Andy asked if I wanted to go out for something to eat. I responded with a big grin: 'Only if you take me over the kitchen table first.'

Time for a change...

Ok.  I've been thinking of changing this blog for a long time.  I've weighed the pros & cons of switching to wordpress, or going with a whole new blog because I don't have the most original blog title in the world, (or the most witty one for sure) but in the end I decided to keep with blogger because I'm more familiar with the program and so far so good.  Until today when I was messing around and pressed save without thinking of the consequences.  I like the new look, and of course its a work in progress.  What I don't like is that I lost all the comments I've had on my blog over the last seven years and I liked those comments - alot.  Often I peruse old posts and re-reading the comments from you all has often brought a smile to my face as I reflect over times gone by and and the encouraging, often amusing words you've written in response. 

I'm eventually going to add my links, etc, however it will be a work in progress as time allows.  What would cheer me to no end though, dear readers (if you are out there) is if you would take a minute to let me know you've been here by dropping me a line under comments.  This will hopefully go a long way in making up for the loss of almost a decades worth.  

Indulge Me (with a meme)

I was tagged to do a meme by Lyndsay over at No Invitation Required. 
She had to tag five people to answer five questions; in turn I'm to answer these questions then come up with five new questions for an additional five people of my choice.  Hopefully they will want to play :) 

Here are my answers to the questions Lyndsay set for me:

1. Favorite age you have been so far? Probably 31/32. It was at this time that I spent the summer at home with my mom and my sisters getting ready for my wedding to Andy in October… the wedding itself was so enjoyable, really relaxing with just the really important people there with us, and of course it was soon after this that we visited Greece for the first time and then of course we got our beautiful puppy Molly. I have really great memories from that point in my life. I definitely have enjoyed being in my 30’s much more so than my 20’s – I know myself so much better now.

2. If you could be fluent in any other language, what would it be? This is where I should probably say French or Spanish as it would make the most sense, however I would really like to speak Greek. Andy and I both have a love of Greece and it’s a language that we both try and communicate in when we spend time there. Also we are both certain we will spend a lot more time there in our future so it would be beneficial to speak the language.

3. If you could have something right now, anything, what would it be? I think most of you know the answer to that, but its unrealistic so lets move on: In smaller terms egg rolls from back home - yummy; in bigger terms a hot tub in our secret garden, but I would settle for that Tiffany bracelet I have my eyes on (whoever said I don’t want much???)

4. What is one aisle you always have to walk down when you go to Walmart? Well considering we don’t have a Wally World here in the UK, I always head for the cosmetics aisle when I get back to Nova Scotia as I love the abundance of choice in the lipsticks I like to wear (closely followed by the deodorant aisle to stock up there as well) .

5. What is one thing your spouse/partner does that drives you crazy (don’t worry, we won’t tell:)? . I can’t really find a lot to complain about because he is so good about helping around the house, and many of the things that he used to do that drove me nuts, he's got sorted, however I wish he would stop turning the heat on and then opening the windows

So, now its my turn to ask five questions, and the people I'm tagging are:  Stacy, Tawny, Dawn, Jeff and
Lara.

1. Do you prefer watching movies or reading books?
2. What is the earliest memory you have?
3. What is your most favourite alcoholic drink of all time (if you had to chose just one)?
4. What do you think the best television series you've ever seen is?
5. What do you like the best about where you live? (I've copied this one, but I like it :)

The next Dane Cook?

There has been a lot of talk recently around what our Connor might possibly do with his life when he finishes school.  Believe it or not, now is the time he needs to start thinking about his chosen career.  I think he can do anything he puts his mind to; I think he is destined for the spotlight as he could easily have his own sitcom, hands down.  He brings a smile to everyone's face with no effort what so ever; he's just that comical. 

Happy 14th to our much loved and adored Funny Boy

Cake anyone?

Ain't gonna rain on our parade....

We had an awesome weekend up in the Northumberland/Borders region of the country, even though Mother Nature’s was on a quest to sabotage our journey to the best of her ability. It didn’t work. Despite the atrocious weather, we managed to hike around the hills and cliffs of St. Abbs, a beautiful village just inside the Scottish Border, even with ridiculously high winds we refused to be put off – after spending hours in the car it was just what we needed.

We found this little resevoir along the way...

A short break...

The view of St. Abbs from the clifftop

We found a pub down the road from our B&B that offered warming food at great prices and even allowed Molly to join us quietly under the table (is there ever any other way for our exceedingly well behaved dog to behave?).

We took a drive across the lowest causeway I have ever seen to get to Holy Island, an Island that is only accessible during low tide times:

Whilst on the island we walked a mile to the little castle on a bluff, and on our return journey ended up getting caught in a freak storm that soaked us to the skin and cut short our hope of finding some holiness at the priory – we did however manage to score some of the best fudge I have ever eaten – seriously.

View of the little castle on Holy Island

We visited Bamborough Castle and the gorgeous beach it was built above:

It felt like gale force winds from the castle grounds but we still managed a few quick photos:

The stunning coastline of this region were made even more so by the rolling waves that were crashing in to shore due to the high winds. Molly was full of exuberance and joy throughout most of this trip due to all the outside exploring, but never more so then when we were on the beaches. Many a people stopped to smile at our happy girl, and like one gent said when we were debating letting her go in for one last swim on Sunday night ‘Why not, its her holiday too!’ How right he was. Molly conked out immediately after our return to the BnB both nights and slept her heart out.

(Digging is almost as much fun as riding the waves!)

(Andy was pretty excited over the beaches too)

Late Sunday we explored the town where we were based, Berwick-upon-Tweed and ended up with a walk along the shore of the river on a path that also held remnants of the old castle walls; we meandered under the centuries old bridges that cross the River Tweed and stopped to take a number of photos.

(Stairs leading to the Secret Garden - Molly was fed up with picture taking)

The sun finally came out as we made one last trip down to the local beach that evening and stopped and played for at least an hour with Molly; there was a playground above the cliff of this beach and although Andy and I decided to have a swing and spin on the merry-go-round, Molly was having none of it and wanted us off that dangerous equipment immediately – she made this quite clear in her usuall Molly fashion – barking and trying to drag us off herself. It’s the easiest way to wind our dog up, honestly. I suppose that’s one good reason we don’t have small children to push on the swings, etc. because in Molly’s eyes it’s much too dangerous to play on those horrible things.

(Scenery is always better when the sun is shining)

Monday morning found us trying to negotiate a way around a number of cows and swampland to explore Ross Sands, but it wasn’t to be. The sign that warned of the possibility of the herd surrounding us to get to the dog kind of put me off; Andy tried to find an alternate route but none was to be found. It was disappointing but we made the best of it by hopping back in the car to head down the coast for lunch at Alnwick, another historic town surrounded by castle walls that boasts this beauty of a castle – it might not be built into the side of a cliff, but it was still impressive:

So ended our journey to the north.  We didn't let the weather get our spirits down and carried on with the full intent of having our short break away. I've come back feeling relaxed and revived; I'm still going to sleep at night thinking of the beautiful views that  I will carry with me until the next time.

Colours

Tuesday night I came down from my bath to find this vibrant collection waiting for me; just a little reminder of a meaningful day Andy and I spent together a few years back. 

I don't have much time to post as I'm off to pack my bag because early tomorrow morning Andy, Molly and I embark on a road trip up north to the Scottish border for a three day weekend.  Its been well over a year since we've been on tour and I can't wait.  I will try and post as soon as I can after we return with (hopefully) a few good stories and more than a few great photos.

Body Punishment

On Sunday morning I woke up aching because my head was in a slight mess from consuming copious amounts of pink champagne and wine the previous evening at Robert and Dawn's.

This morning I woke up with muscles that were shouting at me due to the body pump class I attended last night.  It was great to get back as I'd been procrastinating about it for months, and finally figured there was no time like the present; add to that I figured Dawn was ready for it after months of gymming it with me.  The music was rockin and I won't say I wasn't chuffed if slightly bashful, when the instructor shouted out her pleasure to have me back in class.  I left with promises to return to another class soon.  My legs, which embarrased me by shaking continually during the lunges are trying to tell me a different story but I won't listen to them because its not an annoying pain like Sunday's headache, its a good pain - anyone who works out will know what I'm talking about.  It's a pain that gives you a sense of punishment accomplishment.  And I like it. I feel like I've worked hard and it keeps me motivated to continue to do so.

We had an awesome weekend full of sunshine and fun.  Here are a few pictures I managed to capture:

Connor taking a break in the shade with Molly

I'm smiling because it was such a beautiful day...

At the seafront for a cool down

Robert and Dawn, the happy chef's in their gorgeous new kitchen

Throw the ball already!

Seda

This is Seda, my friend and colleague's 11 week old Slouvakian Roughhaired Pointer.  Alison brought her over for a bit of socialization with Molly last evening. (Puppy classes aren't working out so well - this girl is a bit full on). Seda had such a great time that apprently she fell asleep over her food bowl last night after playing with Molly for an hour.  Ali had been worried she'd be naughty but she was a real little treasure, just busy and curious like any little pup can be.

Here are a few more pictures from when Seda met Molly:

I love her floppy ears as she tries to catch Molly.

Playing ball is exhausting... I need a top up!

I was never that small and annoying rambunctious was I Mama?

I'd rather nip your ears than play with this ball...

Costco Envy

The first time I met up with Dawn when I was at home was for lunch at Cora’s. I won’t go into how absolutely scrumptious the food was as I always get exactly the same thing on my annual trip to Cora’s; I’m never able to switch it up, no matter how determined I am to do so. I won’t go into how wonderful it was to catch up with Dawn; to just sit in a café eating great food and whiling away a few hours with one of my very favourite people. What I will say is that on that particular morning Dawn was going for a workout after our brunch and she had a pretty blue warm-up jacket on that I really loved. I mean really loved.


That night I was picking Stacy up from the airport and damn if she didn’t walk through arrivals wearing the same warm up jacket in navy blue. Was it any surprise when she opened her suitcase later that night to reveal not one more warm up jacket, but two – in white and red. No.  Us McDonald girls, all of us, have a habit of buying an item in almost every colour if it works for us. Stace and I alternated those jackets throughout my stay and it made up part of our regular outfit for movie going, paired with black yoga pants. Comfort all the way baby; but we rocked it with great hair and perfect handbags.  What a combination eh?

Stacy was kind enough to send me back to the UK with the much coveted white one and let me tell you how I love that jacket (but not as much as I love her). I was thrilled when I found out they could be purchased at Costco; Dawn, Stacy and I went into the Costco one evening shortly before I was due to leave so we could get a few more but naturally they were sold out. Damn. Hopefully they will have more in stock at some point and perhaps my sister can fetch me another when she travels back.

I’ve also been reading a few healthy-living blogs and the number one shop of choice for good foods at great bargains is....Costco. What a variety of foodstuff that can be found on the shelves in that place. The only bummer is we don’t have one here and that really blows.

One of the first items on the agenda when Andy and I relocate back to Canada: get a membership at Costco.

Oh, and I can assure you all that I will not ever wear that white warm-up jacket while cleaning my kitchen and bathrooms – bleach and I don’t get on so well.

Wendesday Whinge

On Monday morning I went to work feeling good and as a result had a very productive day. I got home and had a great chat with Stacy as it was her 25th Birthday (Where does time go? My littlest sister is halfway through her twenties. God I feel old). For supper I cooked a delicious beef stir fry that my husband didn’t enjoy however I can’t be cooking two different meals every day and since the boys don’t want to eat my healthier options all the time that’s what I usually do; however Monday I chose to cook just the one healthy meal. (Sometimes I will eat a smaller portion of what I’ve cooked for them, but that is not often.)


Andy and I had another good workout and despite finding out mom will actually need chemo after all, managed to remain optimistic and positive. All her lymph nodes and surrounding tissue tests came back clear, however the tumour was an aggressive type and they want to do four rounds of chemo over 12 weeks followed by radiation as a precautionary measure. It will be a long tough road for Mom but she will get through it, just like she’s gotten through every other hardship that life has thrown at her. We joked about her losing her hair, which she hates anyway as its rather thin, and talked about the posibility of it growing back thick and full like her sisters.  She filled me in on all the great (free) therapy treatments that are offered to cancer patients at the hosptial and mentioned how she thinks they have wigs as well.  We giggled at that, but I also told her that our own fashionesta Stacy, would also be able to help her out with scarves if she wanted that option.  Between all of her daughters and sisters, I'm sure she will have it covered.

Yesterday wasn’t the smoothest of days for me. It actually felt more like a typical Monday in that I wasn’t in the best of places. My day started off ok, but then I let myself get bothered by something that I probably shouldn’t have and blogged about it, but have since decided to delete the post as I don't want to be that person. Also Beryl suffered one of her heart ‘episodes’ (her words) and had to be taken into hospital. She had waited until morning to do anything about it, when normally she rings me in the middle of the night. Both I and the doctors have told her she has to ring straight away, not wait. She was admitted but released yesterday afternoon when her blood work came back ok. I took her home around 4:30 but first stopped at McDonald’s to get her a cheeseburger and fries as she hadn’t eaten all day and I wanted to tempt her with one of her favourites (and of course I indulged, naughty girl). Beryl’s ok, just tired and worn out and needs to rest up as she is supposed to be going away for the weekend to celebrate her son’s 60th birthday.

Last night I made the decision to skip the gym as I was just plain tired. Tired, emotional, out of sorts, whichever way you want to put it. So Andy and I just had a lovely walk with our girl Molly during which time I must have made his ears bleed with my diatribe about everything that was on my mind. Upon our return home I had a long soak in a hot bath and ate a bar of chocolate. (I don’t. think there is much point in jumping on the scales this week eh? Anyway, I haven’t budged for two weeks now and am getting annoyed).

I've just been to the gym and let me tell you it felt great - the sweat I had on was just awesome.  Well it was.  I'm not gonna lie; I'm someone who sweats a lot when I'm  working out.  If I don't sweat much then I really don't feel like I've worked hard enough.  The past week has seen me laid pretty low with some kind of virus that is making the rounds.  I've had a voice that makes me sound like some kind of late night caller, a tight chest and zero energy.  I tried to go to the gym early last week and as my work-out was similiar to the 80 year old woman next to me, I figured I'd better call it quits till I was feeling fine again. 

Friday morning I tried to go back into the office after being off for two days.  I felt slightly better and although I had a bit of a cough it wasn't as bad as it seemed. However my boss was having none of it.  She informed me that I better go home and have the rest of the weekend to recover; that was an order.  And to think Andy was worried that she'd be annoyed I'd already missed two days.  The team I work with isn't like that - they have a family first ethos and they like their staff to be healthy.  Honestly, I felt kind of bad being home on Friday but the extra rest seemed to do me a world of good; I didn't end up with a chest infection as can so easily happen when I get sick.  Yesterday we exercised Molly for ages on the field, and today we took her for a long, refreshing walk up through the apple orchard.  I've only needed my inhaler a few times so I figured tonight was as good as any to get back to the gym.  And it was just a plain good workout -  one of those nights when I actually enjoy the work out;  listening to great music my sister downloaded onto Georgia (the ipod she passed on to me now that she is the owner of a gorgeous new i-Phone).  I was thinking about old times as I sweated it out to Fantasy (I know, I hate Mariah but I love that old dancy version that makes me think of good times in downtown Halifax), Madonna (I love She's Not Me) and various other tracks. 

All in all, I'm feeling good and ready to face the week ahead. I will hold a cease-fire with my hatred of Mondays just because I am feeling that fine. 

37 Things I've Learned the Hard Way in my 37 Years (tagged by Dawn)

1. Wishing you’d done something differently is only just that – wishing.

2. Ever believing Cat when she said ‘we’ll only be out a few hours, home by midnight – promise’

3. Molly doesn’t like canoes – at all.

4. Having everyone like you isn’t that important.

5. Honesty isn’t always the best policy; sometimes it’s better to just keep it zipped.

6. To drink a lot more water in between ALL THAT WINE.

7. That being amicable with an immigration officer wasn’t the right choice and got me nowhere, at least being a bitch would have felt much more satisfying.

8. Some people just wear two faces, nothing will change that. And it doesn’t mean you have to like it.

9. There are those that don’t put their children’s sense of well-being before their own.

10. You never, ever move your bag to the trunk when someone could be watching, especially when your passport is in that bag.

11. Partying all night on the beach till 5 am with Cat and thinking someone would get us up in time to catch a 10 am flight.

12. Falling down in front of your friends never brings about sympathy.

13. Always double check that your husband hasn’t left the keys to your car in a Venice hotel, when your car is parked at Manchester Airport.

14. Never let the boy’s chase your sister’s white cat till she runs under the car and gets stuck in the engine.

15. Laying on a beach drinking beer and forgetting sun block is just the stupidest thing ever.

16. Bitter women will call the police with horrible, false accusations about good men for their own twisted sense of revenge.

17. It’s better not to jump up too quickly after you’ve missed your chair.

18. Pushing your cousin into the corner of the TV so hard that he cracks his ribs isn’t a way to earn your Aunt’s love and affection. (Thankfully she forgave my 10 year old self).

19. Sending someone in your place to do your job doesn’t always work out the way you’d hope.

20. That I should have got the clasp fixed on my beautiful (favourite) bracelet before it fell off my wrist for the millionth and last time.

21. Sometimes if we don’t take the chance, we miss it forever. Sometimes there are no second chances. (But sometimes there are :)

22. Wax is a bitch to get off a carpet.

23. Nettles don’t hurt that much, but they do when you grab a whole handful.

24. Insomnia is a real asshole.

25. Laying on an outcropping of rock while the tide is coming in isn’t a great idea, especially when your mobile phone is also on that rock.

26. Cleaning the kitchen or bathroom with bleach whilst wearing a favourite outfit is bound to end in ruin.

27. That I suck at math.

28. Always make sure everyone has their passport before leaving the house, not when you are an hour away from home.

29. Keep Stacy and Alex far apart from each other when things like number 28 happen.

30. Never admit to who you are unless you know who and why the person is asking (getting slapped in the face by some crazy girl is not nice, nor is the reaction I have when someone strikes me)

31. Watching the aftermath of what it does to your family when you’ve gotten so drunk you hurt yourself is the most horrible feeling ever.

32. Always hang the ‘do not disturb’ sign outside the hotel room door when housekeeping is making the rounds and you really don’t want to be disturbed.

33. Sitting still when a wasp is around is not the right thing to do.

34. Saying the wrong thing at the wrong time can be embarrassing as well as hurtful.

35. If you are going to skinny dip, be prepared to swim for awhile when other people turn up at your spot at the lake.

36. If there is fox shit around, keep your dog well away from it.

37. I should have listened to my mother much more than I did.

Wine is not my friend...

I have to stop denying it; wine is really not my friend.  Oh, it acts like a friend, promising my mouth a glass full of delicious delight , and my head a moment of calm and peace, but when it its gone I'm  just left bloated and up on the scales.  What kind of friend plays a nasty trick like that? 

For two weeks I went without a glass of wine.  I usually only indulge on the weekend because I don't want to get into the habit of drinking a glass (or two) of wine every evening.  The primary factors behind this would be a) It gets to costly; b) it could lead to a serious problem and c) its too damn calorie-ridden and obviously  makes me retain fluid.  Two weeks ago I embarked on a healthier eating kick and decided to stop drinking wine.  I lost three pounds and was pleased with the result.

And then last weekend came and I indulged in a bit of wine. Ok, I'm lying; I indulged in a lot of wine.  And now I'm paying the price because I'm retaining fluid (I can't blame it all on the wine, its my hateful time of the month, which was another reason why I gave into the wine, but hey, I stayed away from chocolate at least).  I got on the scale this morning, groaned and got off. I'm not boring anyone with the details and I'm not going to log it because Friday is my weigh day; and I'm not getting on the scales again until Friday.  Also, I'm really going to try hard not to bore you all with weight talk every week.  I just need a little outlet at the moment to keep on track, because I can do this. 

I don't want to constantly stress about my weight either as I think life has proven over the last few months that sometimes your weight isn't the most important aspect of living, however I want to be healthy and fit and after working so hard eight years ago to drop 28 lbs (2 stone), I really can't let myself put it all back on. I think the way to proceed at this time will be no wine and an increase in weight training. I think some Body Pump might be in order.  This is the last weight post for awhile, I swear.

Mondays...

I don’t know what it is about Mondays. I never seem to want to get up on a Monday morning however if I wasn’t working and able to sleep in, I’d still end up waking up early. I often wonder that if the work week began on a Tuesday if I’d feel the same way about Tuesdays; to this I would have to say ‘presumably so’.

I think the only way I couldn’t possibly hate Monday’s was if I didn’t work. You might deduce from this that I have a job I despise which isn’t the case at all. I do like my job – it’s not too demanding yet challenges me to be the best I can be (no, I’m not in the military, lol). I don’t leave work stressed and tired out and I don’t have to work beyond the regular 37.5 hour work week unless I choose to. But I do abhor the 9-5 grind, (or 8-4 whichever you choose). My mother always told me I should have chosen a career that would be shift orientated i.e. nursing; however if I had, I’d probably still complain about shift work, as so many people that have to work shifts do. When I was in my early 20’s I worked a 3-11 shift and actually enjoyed this as it allowed me to go out clubbing after work and sleep in/go to the gym the next day. However as suitable as those hours were then, they wouldn’t be now. For a start, I don’t go clubbing anymore.  But on second thought... well the answer is still no, it wouldn’t be a better alternative as I’d never see my husband (on the weeks he works in town that is) atlhough I might be more motivated to go to the gym.

I wonder if people are just pre-destined to complain i.e. the grass always being greener syndrome. We dream all these dreams, thinking we will be happier if only, but sometimes our reality is so far stretched from our dream, we wonder where the dream originated from. Why I’ve even crossed over to this topic is beyond me. I don’t even feel that way about anything in particular right now – I’m fine with the way life is at the moment – sure there are certain dreams I had that didn’t come to fruition, however who said we could have everything we want in life? I just wanted to have a rant about how much I positively hate Mondays and would rather be at home having a nap with Molly

What I would be dreaming of if only I could sleep...

I've decided its Sam over Dean...

This is the best picture I could find... but its a Tiffany
Bracelet, one of a few that I have my eye on.



Truth be told if I actually do sleep tonight I probably won't be dreaming about either of these hot items, although Sam does visit me from time to time. I'll be  happy to just have a few hours of dreamless sleep. I'm tired of sleepless nights or those filled with haunting dreams. 

When I was in Nova Scotia, apparently I sometimes woke Stacy with the question 'Whose that Man?' in the middle of the night. Well it wasn't the guy pictured above that's for sure!  Maybe only Daisy knows.

20

On the weekend I finished the last page of my 20th book. I didn't realize it was my 20th until I placed its name and rating on the tracker on the sidebar of this blog. It wasn't the most amazing book I have read this year, but it was quirky and interesting, not to mention, nicked from my sister's bedroom during the last few days of my time at home. It doesn't even belong to Stacy but in fact Tawny, however I'm sure both of my sister's realize I took good care of it and that it can be returned to either one of them whenever they wish. I'm just grateful it was there for my reading enjoyment.


I had thought by now I would actually be well into my 24th/or 25th book since the rate at which I had been devouring books during the first few months of this year would indicate just that; however the last month or two hasn't really allowed me the time or interest to get lost in a book. I am grateful though, that while I was in NS I did have the opportunity to read The Book of Negroes which was unbelievably well written and gripping. I can again thank my sisters for that enjoyable read.

I had been hitting the library hard prior to my time away, but decided this month that I would like to purchase a few books and am now reading The Crimson Rooms, a fictional story that takes place in the aftermath of WWI; a story about a young woman who is struggling to make a name for herself as one of the first female solicitors in London and how she and her family come to terms with the lost of her beloved brother.

I often don't know what I'd do without my books; they are a great way to pass the time whether I'm waiting for an appointment, sitting as passenger in the car or riding the stationary bike (which gets me a lot of strange looks at the gym here but not in Nova Scotia - strange eh?). Every member of my McDonald clan is the same way. Andy's side of the family on the other hand, do not have the same passion for reading at all, except for his sister Ali (although his mum Wendy does enjoy the Harry Potter books). The kids often make comments about how much I read.

For this, I make no apologies.

Like Waking Up After a Bad Nightmare

This morning I woke up the way I normally do, thinking about the day I had ahead i.e.  what I should wear, pack for my lunch, etc.  when it hit me:  my mother's results from her lymph node and surrounding tissue biopsy came back negative. NEGATIVE. 

I cried with joy last night when my mom called to tell me the news.  The relief that I was filled with was indescribable.  We laughed and talked about the future before Mom rang off to go and call my four siblings to share her wonderful news.

So today I sit here at work (on my lunch break mind) and I feel so happy and relieved, because no matter what else is bothering me, or what other problems may arise, it all pales in comparison because my mom is going to be just fine.

Taking Inventory...

Ok. So I have to get down to business this week. By this I mean:

a) get used to being back in the workplace, and
b) start eating sensibly again.

I managed to get a flight out last Thursday night which got me into London on Friday morning. Although the news that I could unexpectedly get on a flight that night (Thursday night) was a bit of jolt, kind of like being asked if I’d like to be hooked up to a machine that was going to send electric shocks throughout my nervous system, and my brain shouted no! Well, actually I did shout no out loud; and if I’m being honest here, it was probably more like a wail. The poor Air Canada rep who went by the name of John must have thought I was a nutter - and he would have been right. But I had to be realistic - it was an offer I couldn’t really turn down as I needed to get back to England for work, if nothing else; my vacation days were rapidly depleting and I have a few other trips to try and sort out this year. (I knew my husband was coping well without me, even though we did miss each other loads.) Another plus of flying on the Thursday was that I had the whole weekend to recover and get my head around everything. So thanks John, for getting me onto a direct flight when every other rep told me I had to go via another route.

I was grateful for my extended stay in Nova Scotia as there are a number of issues taking place at the moment, besides my mom’s breast cancer and it was really good that I could be there with her and my sister the few extra days. But like all good things, it had to come to an end and I boarded the plane on Thursday night with minimal tears and looked forward to seeing my husband once I was airborne and plenty or promises that the three of us (mom, my sister and I) would meet again soon.

Now I’m just in the process of trying to sort through a mountain of work, and not doing a very good job at it. I’m sorry, but my head is still elsewhere; luckily enough I have a great boss who knows that sometimes you just need a bit of extra time, which is extraordinary really, as I have been off work for a whole month. One whole month.

I’m not sure if you’ve noticed the pound tracker at the top of my page; I’ve copied this program from another blogger (hello Demeter :) in my quest to (seriously) sort my weight out. I’ve just been looking back at a few photos and although I don’t think I look so bad, I don’t feel so great. A month of eating whatever I felt like, despite going to the gym a fair bit, has left a mushroom top around the top of my jeans and that does not feel comfortable - at all. So rather than buy bigger clothes like many people do, I’m deciding to take control of things again, and rather than just try and lose the extra 6-7 pounds that have crept up on me, I’m going to take a serious stab at shucking 20 lbs. If it works great, if it doesn’t I will at least have lost something and have gotten that much fitter (because I am pretty fit, if not slender, if I say so myself).

Well enough about that – sorry to have bored you and I understand if I’ve lost at least have of you by this point.

Over the next few months Andy and I are going to try and plan a few getaways and various other enjoyable events; It’s been a hard year and it’s time to start enjoying life again. Here is a sneak preview of some tentative plans:

May – Andy and I want to spend the long weekend at the end of the month exploring the countryside in Berwick-upon-Tweed with Molly. Berwick is a beautiful part of the countryside just below the Scottish border that I have always wanted to see, especially Holy Island, a small island just off the coast that is host to a monastery.

August – Andy, Beryl and I are going to drive to Ireland; Andy and I will be going to for a family celebration with our friends Paul and Sophia as well as to explore the Irish countryside and we will drop Beryl off along the way with her family just outside of Dublin. Hopefully we will have Fern with us at this point but it is all dependant on Mom at the moment and how everything goes for her. Andy and I are really excited to have Fern stay with us for an extended period and Mom is behind her all the way. It will be a wonderful opportunity for her and besides, sometimes it’s just good to have family with you when you live so far away. Especially when you’ve had a tough year and just want your sister close, and she has worked so hard on a Science Degree and just wants to get away.

September/October: Because I won’t get to meet Clara this June, Andy and I are already looking at flights to go and spend time with the baby and her parents this fall, as well as a few friends that we haven’t seen in way too long. Added bonus here – my mom is fully intending on joining us for a few days whilst we are in Ontario.

And this is jumping the fence a bit, but mom is already talking about coming over again next spring which is fantastic and something for her to work towards.

Well I’ve said enough for one post.  I will try and upload some photos from my last few days in Nova Scotia as soon as I can - Fern and I had a great time messing around with the camera on my last day :)

Grounded

I don't know if this is God's way of telling me I still need to be here in Nova Scotia with my mom, but due to the the volcanic eruption I'm grounded here for an extended stay.  We aren't complaining as Mom and Stacy are especially happy to have me around for another few days;  I'm in a much better position than those who are stranded at the airport, or on holiday with no place to stay.

I wasn't 100% ready to leave today, so in a way this wasn't isn't so bad at all (I say, as Stacy fills my bowl with Doritios in preparation for some TV time). It was funny watching mom's reaction when Andy rang to report that Heathrow Airport was still closed to flights.  I have no trouble staying an extra week but I would be lying if I said that to be away from my husband, Molly, our boys, etc. much longer than that will be hard. So fingers crossed that this situation will clear up in days, not weeks. 

In the meantime, I'm enjoying the extra time with my family playing games, drinking wine or even lazing about (and eating way to much rubbish!)

These were sent to mom yesterday by Catherine (and Mackenzie) and made mom's day.  Mom is definitely feeling the love world-wide.  We are truly blessed in our friendships and family. 

A Whirlwind Two Weeks...

Since coming home to Nova Scotia I have been spending most of my days at the house with mom just being with her.  I'm so grateful I was able to be here throughout all of this and I'm glad we had the resources to let me be here to help her do the things that don't come so easily at the moment due to her surgery, such as wash her hair; Mom and I go for the odd walk or two, play a few rounds of Yatzee and in between I've been happy to do any house cleaning or laundry that needs sorting.  I've been lucky enough to fit in a few trips to the gym which is a good thing as I have been indulging in a lot of my favourite foods since returning home (i.e. May Garden and Pizza).  She is my mother and she gave me everything she could, and still continues to do so.  Its the very least I can do.  Besides, its not all for mom either, a lot of this is for myself.  I just needed to be here with her.  

I haven't had much time to spend with friends this trip, and I'm sorry for that, however I know everyone understands that my reason for coming home was to be with my family.  John, Stacy and I have had a few evenings out at dinner and/or a movie; I've managed to get in some time with the children here that I adore and at the moment I am trying to sort out an evening with my godson Gavin;  I've already spent an amusing evening watching the Princess and the Frog with his sister.  Tomorrow night Stacy, Dawn and I head to the Metric Concert - a group I'm not overly familiar with, but from the little I've heard I like.

Time is just flying by much too fast.

A few other activities I've been up to in the previous week:

Rock Climbing with Brendan and Lucas

(my cousin's twin hurricanes)

Lucas and Brendan

Stacy and I went for supper with our family friends Jeff, his mom Marguerite and son Will:

Marguerite & I

(Marguerite has shared mom's experience in the past and is a strong, beautiful woman)

Stacy and I had our own little wine tasting on Saturday night;

I have to say, the Pinot was my favourite, but then again I am a lover of Pinot Grigio.  Stacy loves the Sauvignon Blanc.

We had to be extra careful on the drive back fromt the LC, we didn't want our precious cargo breaking!

The next few days are going to be kind of low key but that's ok.  I'm just happy chilling with Mom and making sure she is ok. 

I just want to say thanks to my husband, my family and all of my friends, even those of you I've never met face-to-face, for being such wonderful, supportive people.  It means a lot. 

Breathing Easier

Many of you will already know that Mom came through her surgery with flying colours and that the initial biopsy of her lymph nodes turned up clear; we are all crossing our fingers that the more in-depth results will show the same and that after her round of radiation in June we will see see the back of it all.

It has been a shock to our family for sure, but we are sticking together and getting through this just fine.  I can't express how much easier I'm breathing now that I am here at home with mom, actually able to hug her and tell her how very much she is loved. Because she is - so very very much.

Mom and I on our way out for her first walk post surgery.