Little Henry
3 days ago
Friday, October 31, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Where Does It End?
WARNING!
The following post contains some pretty strong opinions and a few nasty words ;o)
The following post contains some pretty strong opinions and a few nasty words ;o)
BASTURD! BASTURD! BASTURD! BASTURD! BAS-TURD!
I can honestly say that I do not get any free rides in my life. I'm not necessarily looking for them but why? Why do things always have to be SO difficult???? Did I have a jinx placed on me? Was there never any lucky horseshoe shoved up my ass? I CAN tell you one thing...I'm ripping MAD! >:o(
If you remember back to my July 28 post, I told you that LTD had dropped me so I went to my employer to ask if I could come back to a part-time position instead of my original full-time one, due to my disabilities, and I presented them with a gradual part-time back to work schedule and a list of accommodations (both signed by my doctor and OT). At first they agreed but a few weeks later they changed their minds. They told me if I wanted to come back, I had to resign from my full-time position and reapply for a part-time position, IF one was available. Since I refused to do this and my employer refused to let me come back to work, I filed a complaint with Human Rights.
A letter was sent to my employer and they had until September 23, 2008 to respond as to whether they wanted to mediate (negotiate) or not. They did respond within this time so I thought things were finally going my way. A few weeks went by so I called Human Rights to see what was going on. They were trying to line up legal councel along with my employer's contact out in British Columbia. Fine. I waited another few weeks and then called again. Again, I got the same story.
So today, I get a phone call from Human Rights. My case worker stated that it was proving to be too difficult to set this conference call up and that she would do the mediation on my behalf. We talked about what I wanted and came up with this - lost wages dating back to July 7, 2008, a part-time job with the accommodations that were originally asked for and some special entitlement in which mine ranged from $1,500-5,000. I wasn't expecting this and I won't tell you what I asked for but I think I was fair in the amount. Overall, I don't think what I asked for was beyond reason.
When I got off the phone, I started thinking about the possibility that my employer wouldn't take me back so I called my case worker to inquire about severance pay and left a message. Not ten minutes later, she calls me back to say that my employer's contact has refused everything that I asked for. He stated that he 'misunderstood' what this mediation process was. WTF???? Can this idiot not read???? I have a copy of the letter that they received and I understand it perfectly. Has he not heard the word 'negotiation' before???? What did he think this was anyway?
On top of that, he had the BALLS to say that I refused an Independent Medical Exam. I say WTF...AGAIN! I have done nothing but jump through hoops for LTD AND my employer ever since this whole dog and pony circus act started. PLEASE tell me, HOW did this f-ing idiot get his job???? This is just ANOTHER example of the people I am dealing with.
My blood is boiling and that anger that I was trying to suppress has now come up from the depths again. I really want this whole thing to be over with. I truly do. But I'm getting screwed. This is NOT right! Everyone that I've had to tell this story to (EI, the independent doctor, my doctor, lawyers) all look at me with their mouths open and hanging to the ground because they don't understand. At least I'm not the only one.
So what do I do now? I wait. Now it goes to stage two where they will investigate both sides of the complaint. I wonder if Idgit Boy will understand this next part. And no, I still haven't heard back about the job that I applied for with the provincial government :o(
I can honestly say that I do not get any free rides in my life. I'm not necessarily looking for them but why? Why do things always have to be SO difficult???? Did I have a jinx placed on me? Was there never any lucky horseshoe shoved up my ass? I CAN tell you one thing...I'm ripping MAD! >:o(
If you remember back to my July 28 post, I told you that LTD had dropped me so I went to my employer to ask if I could come back to a part-time position instead of my original full-time one, due to my disabilities, and I presented them with a gradual part-time back to work schedule and a list of accommodations (both signed by my doctor and OT). At first they agreed but a few weeks later they changed their minds. They told me if I wanted to come back, I had to resign from my full-time position and reapply for a part-time position, IF one was available. Since I refused to do this and my employer refused to let me come back to work, I filed a complaint with Human Rights.
A letter was sent to my employer and they had until September 23, 2008 to respond as to whether they wanted to mediate (negotiate) or not. They did respond within this time so I thought things were finally going my way. A few weeks went by so I called Human Rights to see what was going on. They were trying to line up legal councel along with my employer's contact out in British Columbia. Fine. I waited another few weeks and then called again. Again, I got the same story.
So today, I get a phone call from Human Rights. My case worker stated that it was proving to be too difficult to set this conference call up and that she would do the mediation on my behalf. We talked about what I wanted and came up with this - lost wages dating back to July 7, 2008, a part-time job with the accommodations that were originally asked for and some special entitlement in which mine ranged from $1,500-5,000. I wasn't expecting this and I won't tell you what I asked for but I think I was fair in the amount. Overall, I don't think what I asked for was beyond reason.
When I got off the phone, I started thinking about the possibility that my employer wouldn't take me back so I called my case worker to inquire about severance pay and left a message. Not ten minutes later, she calls me back to say that my employer's contact has refused everything that I asked for. He stated that he 'misunderstood' what this mediation process was. WTF???? Can this idiot not read???? I have a copy of the letter that they received and I understand it perfectly. Has he not heard the word 'negotiation' before???? What did he think this was anyway?
On top of that, he had the BALLS to say that I refused an Independent Medical Exam. I say WTF...AGAIN! I have done nothing but jump through hoops for LTD AND my employer ever since this whole dog and pony circus act started. PLEASE tell me, HOW did this f-ing idiot get his job???? This is just ANOTHER example of the people I am dealing with.
My blood is boiling and that anger that I was trying to suppress has now come up from the depths again. I really want this whole thing to be over with. I truly do. But I'm getting screwed. This is NOT right! Everyone that I've had to tell this story to (EI, the independent doctor, my doctor, lawyers) all look at me with their mouths open and hanging to the ground because they don't understand. At least I'm not the only one.
So what do I do now? I wait. Now it goes to stage two where they will investigate both sides of the complaint. I wonder if Idgit Boy will understand this next part. And no, I still haven't heard back about the job that I applied for with the provincial government :o(
Monday, October 27, 2008
The Next Stage...A New Frontier
Yesterday I found myself losing two of the most important people in my life :o( My heart felt so empty. It was not a good day.
Before the crack of dawn, I drove DH to Moncton so he could catch his bus to Sydney. Even as I write this, he is beginning his new training and I couldn't be more proud of him :o) It was hard seeing him go but I don't think the bulk of it has sunk in yet. When I went to bed last night, I took out one of DH's sweatshirts and wrapped it up with me. A sad picture I know. For once in my life, Christmas cannot come soon enough.
Over the last year, I've slowly been introduced to being by myself but this will really be the test and one I'm not sure I can do but I'm willing to try. I have a lot on my plate but Wonder Woman I am not :oS Cooking? What the hell is that? I do have great plans to explore that realm but so far, two donuts from Tim Horton's doesn't really qualify ;o)
While in Moncton, I took the opportunity to go visit my Gram but it wasn't the kind of visit I was hoping for :o( Gram has severe osteoporosis and over the years, her spine has curled in so that her back is hunched. This has created pressure on her inner organs and a lot of pain as a result.
Last week she called the ambulance because she was in so much pain. For Gram to do this, it had to be extremely severe because this woman is a rock and stubborn to boot. She was in her late fifties when my grandfather died and she's been on her own ever since. I've always looked up to Gram because of the type of woman she is, plus she's always been there for me :o)
Dad told me because of all the pain medication she was on (she was on FOUR kinds), it was best to see her in the morning so I arrived shortly after 10:30 am. My aunt was just getting Gram dressed. I took Brie into the living room to wait. The person that entered the room didn't look anything like my Gram :o( She was so pale and her eyes were almost dead. It looked like the life had been zapped right out of her. She did recognize me and Brie though and was very happy to see us :o)
We carried on a bit of conversation but then she started to fall asleep while she was talking. Her voice was starting to slur and by the time I left, she was hallucinating. Very difficult to watch. I just wanted to hug her and not let go. Mom just called awhile ago to let me know that Gram is now back in the hospital :o( I'm not sure where things are going from here but it sure is lonely dealing with this myself.
My heart was filled with warmth though when two unexpected packages arrived here late last week :o) First off, dear (but VERY bad) Chiloe sent me this Lanarte kit -
I just about fell off my chair when I opened it! I have been eyeing this kit for awhile now and could not believe my eyes when I had it in my hot little hands. I can't thank you enough my friend and I have no idea what I did to deserve such a RAOK. I will be getting you back ;o)
I had a head's up on the second package but I had no idea of the contents. There was a shriek of joy when I found this -
Nursy stitched up this gorgeous pumpkin towel and just so you know, her stitching is beautiful! There is no way that towel is being used but it will have a place of honour in my stitching room :o) She also enclosed two Watership Down bookmark kits. I guess someone is reading my Blog. LOL! Thank you so much for thinking of me dear friend.
So I guess you are all waiting and wondering who the winners are :o) I hope everyone had a fun time at the Pumpkin Day festivities. I was a little disappointed in the pumpkin carving contest and as far as I can tell, there were only two entrants (Lori-Ann and Rachael) :o( I thought you guys would be more creative! Because it was based on creativity, the winner is....LORI-ANN! A grab bag will be making its way to you shortly :o) Don't worry Rachael; you have a much deserved thank you coming your way...
There were 31 entrants for the other grab bag and since that outnumbered my brilliant Scrabble lottery technique, I had to use Random.org. For the life of me, I cannot figure out how to get a picture of the screen to show you so you'll just have to take my word for it. Drum roll please......the winner is.......HARMIEN! Congrats!
If there is anyone out there that requested a copy of my free charts and did not receive them, please email me with your contact information. My email address can be found in my profile. Finally, I want to send a HUGE thank you out to everyone who stopped by and I hope you'll come back next year and celebrate with me again :o)
Before the crack of dawn, I drove DH to Moncton so he could catch his bus to Sydney. Even as I write this, he is beginning his new training and I couldn't be more proud of him :o) It was hard seeing him go but I don't think the bulk of it has sunk in yet. When I went to bed last night, I took out one of DH's sweatshirts and wrapped it up with me. A sad picture I know. For once in my life, Christmas cannot come soon enough.
Over the last year, I've slowly been introduced to being by myself but this will really be the test and one I'm not sure I can do but I'm willing to try. I have a lot on my plate but Wonder Woman I am not :oS Cooking? What the hell is that? I do have great plans to explore that realm but so far, two donuts from Tim Horton's doesn't really qualify ;o)
While in Moncton, I took the opportunity to go visit my Gram but it wasn't the kind of visit I was hoping for :o( Gram has severe osteoporosis and over the years, her spine has curled in so that her back is hunched. This has created pressure on her inner organs and a lot of pain as a result.
Last week she called the ambulance because she was in so much pain. For Gram to do this, it had to be extremely severe because this woman is a rock and stubborn to boot. She was in her late fifties when my grandfather died and she's been on her own ever since. I've always looked up to Gram because of the type of woman she is, plus she's always been there for me :o)
Dad told me because of all the pain medication she was on (she was on FOUR kinds), it was best to see her in the morning so I arrived shortly after 10:30 am. My aunt was just getting Gram dressed. I took Brie into the living room to wait. The person that entered the room didn't look anything like my Gram :o( She was so pale and her eyes were almost dead. It looked like the life had been zapped right out of her. She did recognize me and Brie though and was very happy to see us :o)
We carried on a bit of conversation but then she started to fall asleep while she was talking. Her voice was starting to slur and by the time I left, she was hallucinating. Very difficult to watch. I just wanted to hug her and not let go. Mom just called awhile ago to let me know that Gram is now back in the hospital :o( I'm not sure where things are going from here but it sure is lonely dealing with this myself.
My heart was filled with warmth though when two unexpected packages arrived here late last week :o) First off, dear (but VERY bad) Chiloe sent me this Lanarte kit -
I just about fell off my chair when I opened it! I have been eyeing this kit for awhile now and could not believe my eyes when I had it in my hot little hands. I can't thank you enough my friend and I have no idea what I did to deserve such a RAOK. I will be getting you back ;o)
I had a head's up on the second package but I had no idea of the contents. There was a shriek of joy when I found this -
Nursy stitched up this gorgeous pumpkin towel and just so you know, her stitching is beautiful! There is no way that towel is being used but it will have a place of honour in my stitching room :o) She also enclosed two Watership Down bookmark kits. I guess someone is reading my Blog. LOL! Thank you so much for thinking of me dear friend.
So I guess you are all waiting and wondering who the winners are :o) I hope everyone had a fun time at the Pumpkin Day festivities. I was a little disappointed in the pumpkin carving contest and as far as I can tell, there were only two entrants (Lori-Ann and Rachael) :o( I thought you guys would be more creative! Because it was based on creativity, the winner is....LORI-ANN! A grab bag will be making its way to you shortly :o) Don't worry Rachael; you have a much deserved thank you coming your way...
There were 31 entrants for the other grab bag and since that outnumbered my brilliant Scrabble lottery technique, I had to use Random.org. For the life of me, I cannot figure out how to get a picture of the screen to show you so you'll just have to take my word for it. Drum roll please......the winner is.......HARMIEN! Congrats!
If there is anyone out there that requested a copy of my free charts and did not receive them, please email me with your contact information. My email address can be found in my profile. Finally, I want to send a HUGE thank you out to everyone who stopped by and I hope you'll come back next year and celebrate with me again :o)
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
It's Pumpkin Day!!!!
Don't worry Lili, you didn't miss it ;o) To be honest, I was a little worried that I would have to postpone it as things here are a royal mess but I have prevailed and the show will go on! I hope everyone is ready to have some fun :o)
As you probably already know, a pumpkin is really a squash. Pumpkins are rich in Vitamin A and potassium and also high in fibre. So guess what? They are good for you :o) Although, when you start adding in the sugar, cream, eggs or milk...that piece of pumpkin pie or that jar of pumpkin jam might not be all that nutritious after all. But hey, this is Pumpkin Day and you can eat whatever you want!
Pumpkins are a huge part of this time of year, especially on Halloween. We love carving up these plump vegetables :o) So...the first contest of the day is to show off your very own Jack-O-Lanterns! If you've already carved out your pumpkin for Halloween, take a picture of it and post it to your Blog. Leave a comment on "this post only" with a link to your entry. If you don't have an 'actual' Jack-O-Lantern, be creative and make one! Who says it has to be made from a real pumpkin. If you want to practice, try out your ideas here or here. All entries will be judged and the winner will receive a surprise grab bag so make sure I have your contact information as well :o)
It wouldn't be a party without games now would it???? Take a stroll into the game area and try The Pumpkin Battle or Bashing Pumpkins. A little violent for pumpkins I know but believe me, no pumpkins will be hurt during these games ;o)
Did you know that the world's largest pumpkin pie, as of October 2005, stands at 2,020 pounds after baking? I guess asking for 'just a sliver' would be like asking for 63 9" pies. At least! LOL!
Today I have a VERY special gift for ALL of you :o) Since it's Pumpkin Day and also Breast Cancer Awareness Month (both of which are dear to me), I thought that this next thing would be perfect...I have designed a Limited Edition cross stitch pattern for you! I know I couldn't believe it myself. LOL! With the help of a dear, dear friend, I actually have the finished models to show you -
Rachael, the bionic stitcher, stitched and finished both pieces for me in time for today's festivities! Thank you SO much girl, you did an awesome job :o) In order to obtain this pattern (it has two versions), please leave a comment on "this post only", along with your contact information and I will email the pattern to you. As I stated, this is a Limited Edition pattern so it will only be available until Monday, October 27, 2008 and then it's gone!
And finally, I have one more grab bag to give away :o) All you have to do for this one is to leave a comment on "this post only", along with your contact information and your name will be automatically placed into the hat. Since I am unsure as to my schedule for the rest of the week, the winners will be announced on Monday, October 27, 2008. I thank you for your patience and...
HAVE A HAPPY PUMPKIN DAY!!!!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Eighth Finish For 2008
I can't believe that I pulled off another finish in one month :o) Woohoo! I was doing a little happy dance last night when I finished-finished my finish. I really love this one and I knew I was going to stitch it when I found the material for the backing. The two were just perfect for each other.
Here is Night Owl by The Prairie Schooler -
Don't those eyes just give you the creeps? LOL! I used the recommended fabric and threads except that I switched 3371 for 310 so it would match the fabric. The material I used for the back is the one in the pictures. Isn't it cool?
I made this little guy into a pinkeep -
Do you know how hard it is to find black headed pins???? Luckily I didn't need too many. And I'm so pleased with my bow as well :o)
This is the section of fabric I used for the back of the pinkeep -
I love, love, love it! I'm really in a Halloween mood. I just wish I had more October so I could stitch a few more Halloween projects. I will now be returning to Tot but there is no way she'll be done by the end of the month :o(
Things have been absolutely hectic here and I'm SO behind in emails and reading Blogs so please don't think that I've disappeared. I will, eventually, get caught up with everyone :o) Tomorrow DH and I are meeting with the realtor so the house is going to officially go on the market! We're done all our renovations so I'll have to post some new pictures for you. I'm really happy with the way things have turned out but I'm glad we will be moving.
Please don't forget to sign up for the breast cancer wall hanging RR. The post is below. You can add more than one name and I will ship overseas :o) I really want to thank those that have signed up already and I will be in touch after Pumpkin Day with all the details.
Btw, before I go, here's a little enabling -
Isn't it cute! It's a new thread pack by Crescent Colours especially for Breast Cancer Awareness Month :o)
Here is Night Owl by The Prairie Schooler -
Don't those eyes just give you the creeps? LOL! I used the recommended fabric and threads except that I switched 3371 for 310 so it would match the fabric. The material I used for the back is the one in the pictures. Isn't it cool?
I made this little guy into a pinkeep -
Do you know how hard it is to find black headed pins???? Luckily I didn't need too many. And I'm so pleased with my bow as well :o)
This is the section of fabric I used for the back of the pinkeep -
I love, love, love it! I'm really in a Halloween mood. I just wish I had more October so I could stitch a few more Halloween projects. I will now be returning to Tot but there is no way she'll be done by the end of the month :o(
Things have been absolutely hectic here and I'm SO behind in emails and reading Blogs so please don't think that I've disappeared. I will, eventually, get caught up with everyone :o) Tomorrow DH and I are meeting with the realtor so the house is going to officially go on the market! We're done all our renovations so I'll have to post some new pictures for you. I'm really happy with the way things have turned out but I'm glad we will be moving.
Please don't forget to sign up for the breast cancer wall hanging RR. The post is below. You can add more than one name and I will ship overseas :o) I really want to thank those that have signed up already and I will be in touch after Pumpkin Day with all the details.
Btw, before I go, here's a little enabling -
Isn't it cute! It's a new thread pack by Crescent Colours especially for Breast Cancer Awareness Month :o)
Monday, October 13, 2008
All Points Bulletin
If you are one of my readers or a Blogger that would like to participate in a quick but meaningful RR, then you've come to the right place :o)
DH and I came home on Saturday evening after an exhausting day of working when I found a plastic bag hanging from our front door. Inside contained a RR project that I had started back about THREE years ago! I had asked a friend of mine to do the sewing bit and with life getting in the way, we just never hooked up. Thanks to my wonderful stitching channel, the project got delivered :o) Thanks Katie!
Some of you may have already seen this poem. It's called What Cancer Cannot Do and it's a freebie by Gloria & Pat -
I stitched it on 18 count white Davos. I had found some beautiful pink ribbon fabric and I got my friend to sew the poem into a wall hanging -
Wait, it doesn't stop there! As you can see, there is quite a wide border around the poem but there IS a method to my madness ;o) The wall hanging is not completely closed up so it allows you to continue stitching on it. Ahhhh...do you see where I'm going with this? As you can see in this picture, I have added my name above the poem -
To those who would like to participate in this RR, you would be backstitching 'your' name or the name of someone you know that has been touched by cancer. Hey, you can always do both too! These names will go around the poem. I have calculated enough room for three rows. Those that fought breast cancer will have their name backstitched in dark pink (like mine) while the others, friends and family, will be using the lighter green.
Wait, there's more! Along with the RR piece, there will be a journal that will accompany it :o) In this journal the participants can write whatever they wish. Maybe you have a beautiful memory of a loved one that has passed away from breast cancer and you want to write it down. Perhaps you want to write out your own fears with regards to this awful disease. Tell a story about where this book has been and where it's going to. The book is a blank canvas and you are the artist. Create what 'you' want to create :o)
This is going to be a very special piece for me in the end. It will be a joint project that I will be honoured to display in my home :o) I have a lovely hanger from which it will hang from. So if you are interested in participating, please leave a comment on 'this post only' and instructions on how to get a hold of you via email. PLEASE do not leave your mailing address. I'll leave this RR open until Pumpkin Day and then afterwards I will create a mailing list.
I'm in need of your help so spread the word! I'm SO excited to start this rolling and what better way than to have your friends by your side :o)
DH and I came home on Saturday evening after an exhausting day of working when I found a plastic bag hanging from our front door. Inside contained a RR project that I had started back about THREE years ago! I had asked a friend of mine to do the sewing bit and with life getting in the way, we just never hooked up. Thanks to my wonderful stitching channel, the project got delivered :o) Thanks Katie!
Some of you may have already seen this poem. It's called What Cancer Cannot Do and it's a freebie by Gloria & Pat -
I stitched it on 18 count white Davos. I had found some beautiful pink ribbon fabric and I got my friend to sew the poem into a wall hanging -
Wait, it doesn't stop there! As you can see, there is quite a wide border around the poem but there IS a method to my madness ;o) The wall hanging is not completely closed up so it allows you to continue stitching on it. Ahhhh...do you see where I'm going with this? As you can see in this picture, I have added my name above the poem -
To those who would like to participate in this RR, you would be backstitching 'your' name or the name of someone you know that has been touched by cancer. Hey, you can always do both too! These names will go around the poem. I have calculated enough room for three rows. Those that fought breast cancer will have their name backstitched in dark pink (like mine) while the others, friends and family, will be using the lighter green.
Wait, there's more! Along with the RR piece, there will be a journal that will accompany it :o) In this journal the participants can write whatever they wish. Maybe you have a beautiful memory of a loved one that has passed away from breast cancer and you want to write it down. Perhaps you want to write out your own fears with regards to this awful disease. Tell a story about where this book has been and where it's going to. The book is a blank canvas and you are the artist. Create what 'you' want to create :o)
This is going to be a very special piece for me in the end. It will be a joint project that I will be honoured to display in my home :o) I have a lovely hanger from which it will hang from. So if you are interested in participating, please leave a comment on 'this post only' and instructions on how to get a hold of you via email. PLEASE do not leave your mailing address. I'll leave this RR open until Pumpkin Day and then afterwards I will create a mailing list.
I'm in need of your help so spread the word! I'm SO excited to start this rolling and what better way than to have your friends by your side :o)
Friday, October 10, 2008
Sweet Stuff & Stash
The past few days have been filled with goodies and that can never be a bad thing :o) Yesterday, Mom and Dad stopped by to drop of my jam supply. Along with the usual strawberry and raspberry, she included a jar of pumpkin jam. This was a new recipe that she found in a magazine so she wasn't sure how it would turn out.
If you want to see my expression, check out Mom's Blog ;o) Let me put it this way, if you like marmalade jam, you're going to LOVE this! As you can see, I already get my sweet stash from Mom but now she's stepped it up a notch. So far I've tried it on bagels but I'm wondering what it would be like on ice cream...
Today was STASH DAY! The postman was very kind and dropped off two things -
During The Online Needlework Show, I put my name in with My Mark Designs for one of their door prizes and guess what? I won! The funny thing is I won a pattern from them at the spring show as well. I couldn't help myself this time and just HAD to get her new pattern, Equal Rights ;o) A snowman, er snowwoman, with boobs! ROFL!
On top of that, my order from Wasatch Needle Craft arrived! I just couldn't resist the new pink ribbon pattern by The Cat's Whiskers - Love, Laugh, Survive & Thrive. And once I bought that, I just HAD to include the Pink Snips by Kelmscott Designs :o) These are just adorable. This was the first time I ordered from this ONS and I wouldn't hesitate to deal with them again.
Before I go, I just want to wish all my Canadian friends a turkey filled Thanksgiving Day weekend. I hope my American friends enjoy their extra day off Columbus Day weekend and for the rest of my friends around the world, enjoy your weekend to the fullest :o)
If you want to see my expression, check out Mom's Blog ;o) Let me put it this way, if you like marmalade jam, you're going to LOVE this! As you can see, I already get my sweet stash from Mom but now she's stepped it up a notch. So far I've tried it on bagels but I'm wondering what it would be like on ice cream...
Today was STASH DAY! The postman was very kind and dropped off two things -
During The Online Needlework Show, I put my name in with My Mark Designs for one of their door prizes and guess what? I won! The funny thing is I won a pattern from them at the spring show as well. I couldn't help myself this time and just HAD to get her new pattern, Equal Rights ;o) A snowman, er snowwoman, with boobs! ROFL!
On top of that, my order from Wasatch Needle Craft arrived! I just couldn't resist the new pink ribbon pattern by The Cat's Whiskers - Love, Laugh, Survive & Thrive. And once I bought that, I just HAD to include the Pink Snips by Kelmscott Designs :o) These are just adorable. This was the first time I ordered from this ONS and I wouldn't hesitate to deal with them again.
Before I go, I just want to wish all my Canadian friends a turkey filled Thanksgiving Day weekend. I hope my American friends enjoy their extra day off Columbus Day weekend and for the rest of my friends around the world, enjoy your weekend to the fullest :o)
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Feeling Halloweenie
I don't know what it is lately but I've been in the Halloween mood. Maybe it's that autumn smell in the air or the coloured leaves swirling around on the ground. Maybe it's all the cool costumes in the stores or the fact that I'm stitching two Halloween pieces. Maybe it's watching the flocks of Canada geese flying south or all the piles of pumpkins in front of the grocery stores. Whatever it is, it's really got me going :o)
I never used to like Halloween because that's when my grandfather passed away. I was in Grade 4 and I can remember my parents coming and picking me up at school. We were having our class Halloween party and I was dressed up in my costume. This was my first experience with loss so as we drove to Moncton, I watched the Trick or Treaters going from house to house and I couldn't understand why I had to give that up :o(
I'm not really one for dressing up and going to Halloween parties anyway but in the past few years, I've found that I have been enjoying everything that leads up to the day. I love strolling the isles in the stores and looking at all the different decorations. As you can probably guess, I'm a sucker for pumpkins ;o) I was in Wal-Mart the other day and came across Halloween costumes for dogs. Well, didn't I find the hot dog costume I've always wanted to get for Brie -
I never used to like Halloween because that's when my grandfather passed away. I was in Grade 4 and I can remember my parents coming and picking me up at school. We were having our class Halloween party and I was dressed up in my costume. This was my first experience with loss so as we drove to Moncton, I watched the Trick or Treaters going from house to house and I couldn't understand why I had to give that up :o(
I'm not really one for dressing up and going to Halloween parties anyway but in the past few years, I've found that I have been enjoying everything that leads up to the day. I love strolling the isles in the stores and looking at all the different decorations. As you can probably guess, I'm a sucker for pumpkins ;o) I was in Wal-Mart the other day and came across Halloween costumes for dogs. Well, didn't I find the hot dog costume I've always wanted to get for Brie -
If money wasn't tight right now, I would have bought it just to tick off a certain DH ;o)
One sure sign that I'm in the Halloween mood is when I break out the horror movies! I know a lot of people are not huge fans of such a movie genre but I love them :o) Okay, let me put it this way, I love them if 1) its daylight or 2) there's someone else with me. I do have a wimpy side. LOL! Yesterday I broke out Halloween H2O. Did you know that the mask that Michael Myers wears is actually the face of William Shatner, only painted white? That's scary enough right there!!!!
To answer Suzanne's question, and there may be others that are wondering, yes, we do celebrate Halloween here in Canada and it is on October 31. So what's up with my counter then? No, it's not incorrect. I can count, up to 31 anyway ;oP On October 21, I will be celebrating Pumpkin Day!
One sure sign that I'm in the Halloween mood is when I break out the horror movies! I know a lot of people are not huge fans of such a movie genre but I love them :o) Okay, let me put it this way, I love them if 1) its daylight or 2) there's someone else with me. I do have a wimpy side. LOL! Yesterday I broke out Halloween H2O. Did you know that the mask that Michael Myers wears is actually the face of William Shatner, only painted white? That's scary enough right there!!!!
To answer Suzanne's question, and there may be others that are wondering, yes, we do celebrate Halloween here in Canada and it is on October 31. So what's up with my counter then? No, it's not incorrect. I can count, up to 31 anyway ;oP On October 21, I will be celebrating Pumpkin Day!
Yes, it's an actual day and hey, since I'm known as Pumpkin I figure I might as well take over that day as my own :oD So, on October 21, I highly suggest you stop by my Blog for some Pumpkin Day party fun!
Friday, October 03, 2008
Seventh Finish For 2008
Hear ye! Hear ye! Come and join me for the Grand Opening because The Needlework Shop is officially open for business -
Didn't the landscapers do a fantastic job? I was really lucky because just as they were finishing, I was able to locate someone to put the sign up as well ;o)
Things must have really been in my favour because the interior decorator had a last minute cancellation and she was able to fit me in sooner than expected. The shop has honey oak flooring throughout, with beautiful coloured area rugs. When you walk in the door, your eyes might spot the seating area in the middle of the room. I made sure I had one there so anyone can come in and stitch anytime they want to :o) There are two comfortable sofas and two chairs with ottomans so you can put your feet up and rest awhile. This is a NRA shop (no rushing allowed) so leave your husbands at home. LOL!
The fibers, embellishments and accessories are all on the first floor. You're surrounded by loads of color and bling -
As you sit and stitch, or even if you're just browsing around, your eyes will see plenty of eye candy because the walls are adorned with stitched models. After coming here, you'll never have another moment when you ask yourself, "What am I going to stitch next?" LOL!
The second floor is dedicated solely to fabric, and lots of it -
I put in a huge cutting table in the middle of the room. The fabrics line the walls and are arranged by count AND by color so there appears to be a rainbow all around you :o) The selection is easy to see and you can't help but touch the linens. In amongst all the stitching fabric you're going to spot something new. I've added special fabric for finishing those flat folds, pin keeps and stand ups. They coordinate perfectly with the stitching fabric so there's no need to drive around town with little color samples in your purse ;o)
Before you leave, make sure that you've tried out our selection of teas and don't forget to grab a few business cards to give out to friends and family!
Didn't the landscapers do a fantastic job? I was really lucky because just as they were finishing, I was able to locate someone to put the sign up as well ;o)
Things must have really been in my favour because the interior decorator had a last minute cancellation and she was able to fit me in sooner than expected. The shop has honey oak flooring throughout, with beautiful coloured area rugs. When you walk in the door, your eyes might spot the seating area in the middle of the room. I made sure I had one there so anyone can come in and stitch anytime they want to :o) There are two comfortable sofas and two chairs with ottomans so you can put your feet up and rest awhile. This is a NRA shop (no rushing allowed) so leave your husbands at home. LOL!
The fibers, embellishments and accessories are all on the first floor. You're surrounded by loads of color and bling -
As you sit and stitch, or even if you're just browsing around, your eyes will see plenty of eye candy because the walls are adorned with stitched models. After coming here, you'll never have another moment when you ask yourself, "What am I going to stitch next?" LOL!
The second floor is dedicated solely to fabric, and lots of it -
I put in a huge cutting table in the middle of the room. The fabrics line the walls and are arranged by count AND by color so there appears to be a rainbow all around you :o) The selection is easy to see and you can't help but touch the linens. In amongst all the stitching fabric you're going to spot something new. I've added special fabric for finishing those flat folds, pin keeps and stand ups. They coordinate perfectly with the stitching fabric so there's no need to drive around town with little color samples in your purse ;o)
Before you leave, make sure that you've tried out our selection of teas and don't forget to grab a few business cards to give out to friends and family!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
The 80's Are Back?
ACK! Say it isn't so! Apparently it is :oP
I caught a little bit of The View one day and they were featuring new clothing designs based on those of the 80's but modernized for 2008. I didn't even think that was remotely possible. If you're my generation you'll no doubt remember the HUGE sweaters, leggings, wearing underwear as outerwear, neon, leather bomer jackets...shall I go on? I look at pictures taken back then and I just want to barf up wads of shoulder pads :oP
What was even worse were the hairstyles back then! The bigger the better :oD I wouldn't say that I ran with the popular crowd in HS but I knew a lot of people and they knew me. If they didn't, they knew me by my hair -
Okay, okay, are you done laughing now ;o) LOL! Yes, I had BIG hair. HUGE! I used so much hairspray that I'm sure I would have gone up in flames if someone came near me with a lit match.
I was in the library last week and I found myself reminiscing back to the music of my generation. I actually picked up a CD by Chilliwack! I wonder what happened to them. They've been "gone, gone, gone so long". Other bands have continued on and a good example of this would be Bon Jovi. They just keep getting better and better with age ;o) I saw Billy Idol on television recently. I used to love him! I'm sad to say that he's pretty much lost that Idol snarl :o( If I remember correctly, Loverboy tried to make a comeback. The only thing I can remember of them was their album jacket cover...a tight ass in red leather pants. LOL!
But who could ever forget Michael Jackson's release, Thriller. He was somewhat normal back then. I said somewhat ;o) I remember it was a huge thing when the video came out. I was sitting with my parents as we watched it debut on television. No one had ever spent that much money on a music video before and just watching Michael Jackson dance was mesmerising. The Guinness Book of World Records states that as of 2007, Thriller had sold 65 mil-lion copies! Wow!
The 80s produced some awesome movies I do have to admit. Of course we all know Return of the Jedi and The Empire Strikes Back :o) What about Flashdance and Footloose? Come on, I know you danced around the house trying to imitate all those moves. LOL! How could I forget Dirty Dancing! "No one puts Baby in a corner." Baby also showed up as the cranky sister in Ferris Bueller's Day Off. I have to say, that movie is a classic! The release of Top Gun started a whole new fad and girls were swooning over Tom Cruise. Me personally, I would have called GHOSTBUSTERS!
I have to say that there were two underdogs that I really liked. Who Framed Roger Rabbit was an instant hit with me. Hey, he's a 'rabbit'! I used to have a Roger that sat in the passenger seat and drove around with me in my car :o) And then there was Freddie... Nightmare on Elm Street became the new horror movie of the time. Did you know that Johnny Depp starred in the first one? You might have to go back and check that out now ;o)
Every decade has its own lingo and the 80s were no exception. Thanks to The Valley Girl we were going around saying things like "Totally", "Fer Shur", "Awesome", "Party Hardy" and the infamous "Gag me with a spoon" ;o) At that time, you could at least guess what most of these things meant. If you listen to teens today, you almost need a whole new dictionary to be able to figure out what they're talking about. Maybe that's just a sign of me getting older :oS
I think the 80s will always have a spot in my heart, for it was the time that I was introduced to Frogger and Pac Man, Duran Duran, DOS, hair scrunchies and cassette tapes. If we managed to survive all of that, we proved that we are a strong generation that can accept almost anything ;o)
I caught a little bit of The View one day and they were featuring new clothing designs based on those of the 80's but modernized for 2008. I didn't even think that was remotely possible. If you're my generation you'll no doubt remember the HUGE sweaters, leggings, wearing underwear as outerwear, neon, leather bomer jackets...shall I go on? I look at pictures taken back then and I just want to barf up wads of shoulder pads :oP
What was even worse were the hairstyles back then! The bigger the better :oD I wouldn't say that I ran with the popular crowd in HS but I knew a lot of people and they knew me. If they didn't, they knew me by my hair -
Okay, okay, are you done laughing now ;o) LOL! Yes, I had BIG hair. HUGE! I used so much hairspray that I'm sure I would have gone up in flames if someone came near me with a lit match.
I was in the library last week and I found myself reminiscing back to the music of my generation. I actually picked up a CD by Chilliwack! I wonder what happened to them. They've been "gone, gone, gone so long". Other bands have continued on and a good example of this would be Bon Jovi. They just keep getting better and better with age ;o) I saw Billy Idol on television recently. I used to love him! I'm sad to say that he's pretty much lost that Idol snarl :o( If I remember correctly, Loverboy tried to make a comeback. The only thing I can remember of them was their album jacket cover...a tight ass in red leather pants. LOL!
But who could ever forget Michael Jackson's release, Thriller. He was somewhat normal back then. I said somewhat ;o) I remember it was a huge thing when the video came out. I was sitting with my parents as we watched it debut on television. No one had ever spent that much money on a music video before and just watching Michael Jackson dance was mesmerising. The Guinness Book of World Records states that as of 2007, Thriller had sold 65 mil-lion copies! Wow!
The 80s produced some awesome movies I do have to admit. Of course we all know Return of the Jedi and The Empire Strikes Back :o) What about Flashdance and Footloose? Come on, I know you danced around the house trying to imitate all those moves. LOL! How could I forget Dirty Dancing! "No one puts Baby in a corner." Baby also showed up as the cranky sister in Ferris Bueller's Day Off. I have to say, that movie is a classic! The release of Top Gun started a whole new fad and girls were swooning over Tom Cruise. Me personally, I would have called GHOSTBUSTERS!
I have to say that there were two underdogs that I really liked. Who Framed Roger Rabbit was an instant hit with me. Hey, he's a 'rabbit'! I used to have a Roger that sat in the passenger seat and drove around with me in my car :o) And then there was Freddie... Nightmare on Elm Street became the new horror movie of the time. Did you know that Johnny Depp starred in the first one? You might have to go back and check that out now ;o)
Every decade has its own lingo and the 80s were no exception. Thanks to The Valley Girl we were going around saying things like "Totally", "Fer Shur", "Awesome", "Party Hardy" and the infamous "Gag me with a spoon" ;o) At that time, you could at least guess what most of these things meant. If you listen to teens today, you almost need a whole new dictionary to be able to figure out what they're talking about. Maybe that's just a sign of me getting older :oS
I think the 80s will always have a spot in my heart, for it was the time that I was introduced to Frogger and Pac Man, Duran Duran, DOS, hair scrunchies and cassette tapes. If we managed to survive all of that, we proved that we are a strong generation that can accept almost anything ;o)
Friday, September 26, 2008
Six Quirky Things About Me
The Rules:
Link back to the person that tagged you.
Post the rules on your Blog.
Share 6 non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself.
Tag 6 people at the end of your post by linking to their Blog.
Let each person know they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their Blog.
Velda does NOT know what she has unleashed...
1. I eat pie and cheesecake from the crust inwards but I eat pizza from the inside out towards the crust.
2. I cannot use a bathroom if it has a magazine/picture/wallpaper with eyes.
3. I always leave part of my drink at the bottom of my glass. Always.
4. I have a public bathroom phobia. If I can, and I usually can because I'm a camel, I will go all day without going to the bathroom.
5. I'm addicted to smell of new magazines.
6. Sometimes, I can go a week without pooping ;o)
TMI? Blame Velda. LOL!
Okay, I pass this on to the following fellow freaks -
Shannon
Sharon
Lori-Ann
Karen
Rachel
Rachael
Link back to the person that tagged you.
Post the rules on your Blog.
Share 6 non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself.
Tag 6 people at the end of your post by linking to their Blog.
Let each person know they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their Blog.
Velda does NOT know what she has unleashed...
1. I eat pie and cheesecake from the crust inwards but I eat pizza from the inside out towards the crust.
2. I cannot use a bathroom if it has a magazine/picture/wallpaper with eyes.
3. I always leave part of my drink at the bottom of my glass. Always.
4. I have a public bathroom phobia. If I can, and I usually can because I'm a camel, I will go all day without going to the bathroom.
5. I'm addicted to smell of new magazines.
6. Sometimes, I can go a week without pooping ;o)
TMI? Blame Velda. LOL!
Okay, I pass this on to the following fellow freaks -
Shannon
Sharon
Lori-Ann
Karen
Rachel
Rachael
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Tot's Tippy Toeing
She's back! I finally finished her dress and legs so I figured she was put together enough so that I could post another progress picture -
I'm still a little nervous about where I placed her on this fabric. I'm thinking she's down too low. But then I look at it from a different angle and she looks okay. I don't know :o(
Since I found some landscapers, Tot will be put on hold for a little bit. I want to get the plants and flowers in around The Needlework Shop before it gets too cold ;o)
Speaking of cold...it's getting COLDER temperature wise! I know I shouldn't complain because I just LOVE the fall but my poor toes and fingers are feeling the consequences. DH and I always try to hold out putting on the heat until after the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend but I tell you, it's been hard roughing it. We've had 'heavy' frost almost every morning but thankfully the days have been just perfect :o) I love the fact that I can still hang my clothes outside for that fresh outdoor smell even if I'm still using my redneck clothesline. LOL!
The trees seem to be taking their time changing their leaves but if you look hard enough, you can see little sparks of colour along the river valley.
Every day when I look out the back window, I see the trees changing on the hill behind the barn. This will probably (hopefully) be my last fall here and in a way, it's sad :o( I had such hopes for this place but at least I can say that I lived that part of my life and now I'm on to a new adventure! DH and I are starting to feel the strain but in the end, it will be worth it :o)
I'm still a little nervous about where I placed her on this fabric. I'm thinking she's down too low. But then I look at it from a different angle and she looks okay. I don't know :o(
Since I found some landscapers, Tot will be put on hold for a little bit. I want to get the plants and flowers in around The Needlework Shop before it gets too cold ;o)
Speaking of cold...it's getting COLDER temperature wise! I know I shouldn't complain because I just LOVE the fall but my poor toes and fingers are feeling the consequences. DH and I always try to hold out putting on the heat until after the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend but I tell you, it's been hard roughing it. We've had 'heavy' frost almost every morning but thankfully the days have been just perfect :o) I love the fact that I can still hang my clothes outside for that fresh outdoor smell even if I'm still using my redneck clothesline. LOL!
The trees seem to be taking their time changing their leaves but if you look hard enough, you can see little sparks of colour along the river valley.
Every day when I look out the back window, I see the trees changing on the hill behind the barn. This will probably (hopefully) be my last fall here and in a way, it's sad :o( I had such hopes for this place but at least I can say that I lived that part of my life and now I'm on to a new adventure! DH and I are starting to feel the strain but in the end, it will be worth it :o)
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
57 Years Of Marriage To Go
Today is our wedding anniversary :o) Thirteen years! I'd say that we're starting to feel like an old married couple but that happened years ago. LOL! When we first got married, DH had promised me, in front of witnesses by the way, 70 years together so he's still got 57 years to go. After that, it's a free for all. Do you think we'll be prime dating material when we're 94? ;o)
A few days ago I took the dogs outside with me and tried to get some pictures of them. This is Tweedledee (Brie) and Tweedledum (Duncan) -
Quite the odd couple aren't they? LOL! I can't remember who asked but Brie is a miniature Dachshund. She only weights around 10-11 pounds with a very solid body. In comparison, Duncan is an Australian Cattle Dog and is about 55 pounds of solid muscle. It's really amazing how well they get along with each other. There definitely is a bond there.
The Odd Couple, Mutt & Jeff, Dumb & Dumber, the two have quite a few nicknames ;o) Duncan used to be a show dog so we only brought him home at two years of age. I can't remember but he was either number one or two in Canada. He's got quite the portfolio. DH and I consider Duncan our slow child. He may be pretty to look at but he's missing a few oars from his boat. LOL!
Duncan LOVES to bury his bones. He rarely chews them. It's so funny to watch him though because if he sees that you're watching him, he'll grab the bone and find another location to dig. But it's not like he makes a hole to drop the bone in. His idea of hiding it is to just lay it on the ground and push the dirt over top of it :oP
Brie continues to do well but we know she'll never be 100%. Her coat has grown all the way in and it completely covers the scar from her operation. She still loves to run and play. I was out with her the other night, trying to get her to go poo, when she decided she wanted to play. We ran all around the back yard, to the front of the house, around my car twice, around DH's car twice and then I finally had to give up because I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I can only imagine what our neighbours thought of this grown woman, in her fleece pyjamas, running around chasing a little black rat. LOL!
I have one thing to confess about Brie though...she does have a drinking problem :o) She's like a magnet to wine and beer. No drink is safe if it's within her reach. A few nights ago, DH and I were getting ready to eat supper in the living room (this is where we always eat) and he went in and placed his glass of milk down beside his chair. What he didn't realize was that he placed the drink 'on' Brie's carpet. Wee One figured since it was on 'her' carpet it was fair game. She did get a time out but it was funny as all get out ;o)
Btw, Happy Anniversary Sweetie! I'm looking forward to many more wonderful years together and I love you :o)
A few days ago I took the dogs outside with me and tried to get some pictures of them. This is Tweedledee (Brie) and Tweedledum (Duncan) -
Quite the odd couple aren't they? LOL! I can't remember who asked but Brie is a miniature Dachshund. She only weights around 10-11 pounds with a very solid body. In comparison, Duncan is an Australian Cattle Dog and is about 55 pounds of solid muscle. It's really amazing how well they get along with each other. There definitely is a bond there.
The Odd Couple, Mutt & Jeff, Dumb & Dumber, the two have quite a few nicknames ;o) Duncan used to be a show dog so we only brought him home at two years of age. I can't remember but he was either number one or two in Canada. He's got quite the portfolio. DH and I consider Duncan our slow child. He may be pretty to look at but he's missing a few oars from his boat. LOL!
Duncan LOVES to bury his bones. He rarely chews them. It's so funny to watch him though because if he sees that you're watching him, he'll grab the bone and find another location to dig. But it's not like he makes a hole to drop the bone in. His idea of hiding it is to just lay it on the ground and push the dirt over top of it :oP
Brie continues to do well but we know she'll never be 100%. Her coat has grown all the way in and it completely covers the scar from her operation. She still loves to run and play. I was out with her the other night, trying to get her to go poo, when she decided she wanted to play. We ran all around the back yard, to the front of the house, around my car twice, around DH's car twice and then I finally had to give up because I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I can only imagine what our neighbours thought of this grown woman, in her fleece pyjamas, running around chasing a little black rat. LOL!
I have one thing to confess about Brie though...she does have a drinking problem :o) She's like a magnet to wine and beer. No drink is safe if it's within her reach. A few nights ago, DH and I were getting ready to eat supper in the living room (this is where we always eat) and he went in and placed his glass of milk down beside his chair. What he didn't realize was that he placed the drink 'on' Brie's carpet. Wee One figured since it was on 'her' carpet it was fair game. She did get a time out but it was funny as all get out ;o)
Btw, Happy Anniversary Sweetie! I'm looking forward to many more wonderful years together and I love you :o)
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Watership Down
What can I say? If you've never heard of the book, I highly suggest that you go out, find a copy and read it. NOW! This novel has got to be one the most brilliant pieces of writing and it has even been compared to Tolkien's, The Lord of the Rings. It is by far the favourite book in my library and it's had a home there for many, many years. Richard Adams is a magnificent storyteller and by the time you are past the first chapter, you come to know not only the characters but the landscape that surrounds them as well. It's almost as if the story springs to life in your mind as you're reading along.
For those of you who are not familiar with the book, it's about a band of rabbits who decide to leave their current warren as it is about to be destroyed by the hand of man. Their dream is to find a new home and set up a better society than the one they are leaving behind. The story takes you through that journey and what it takes for them to eventually get there. By the end of the book, I guarantee that you will fall in love with Hazel, Fiver, Clover, Dandelion, Pipkin, Hyzenthlay, Bigwig, Holly, Silver, and Kehaar :o)
I read a review once where they compared General Woundwort and the Owsla to Hitler and the Nazis. And while I can definitely see this view, the story does not stray far from what our own society has evolved into today. We still don't live in a perfect world. It's ruled by government and corruption. Racism and inhumanity still exists whether we want to acknowledge it or not. Every one of us has an idea in our head of what our perfect world would look like and I think unconsciously we keep trying to find it.
That's one thing I love about this story. Hazel has a dream. He knows what he wants and he sets out to achieve it. The road there isn't an easy one by any means but it's his determination that keeps him going. He knows what will make him happy. How many of us can say this? I feel that after almost fifteen years of being together, DH and I are finally on our way to finding the happiness that we have been seeking. Don't get me wrong...I'm not saying that we've been unhappy all this time but it's almost like we end up just living from day to day, waiting until that opportunity comes along. Some find it faster than others but the constant remains the journey. There is always a journey.
So, how's that for deep thinking on a Saturday afternoon? LOL! I'll end this post on a lighter note then ;o) Over the years I have been trying to collect a set of Watership Down figurines that were produced back in the 70's (I believe). These are the characters that I have so far -
Stupid me packed these away before writing down the information that was underneath them :oS I really don't know much about them but I believe they were produced in the UK and there was the name New Orleans. I received two from a very special friend who was lucky enough to find them at a flea market and the rest have come from EBay. If anyone knows more about these or where I can get additional ones to complete my collection, plmk. Thanks!
For those of you who are not familiar with the book, it's about a band of rabbits who decide to leave their current warren as it is about to be destroyed by the hand of man. Their dream is to find a new home and set up a better society than the one they are leaving behind. The story takes you through that journey and what it takes for them to eventually get there. By the end of the book, I guarantee that you will fall in love with Hazel, Fiver, Clover, Dandelion, Pipkin, Hyzenthlay, Bigwig, Holly, Silver, and Kehaar :o)
I read a review once where they compared General Woundwort and the Owsla to Hitler and the Nazis. And while I can definitely see this view, the story does not stray far from what our own society has evolved into today. We still don't live in a perfect world. It's ruled by government and corruption. Racism and inhumanity still exists whether we want to acknowledge it or not. Every one of us has an idea in our head of what our perfect world would look like and I think unconsciously we keep trying to find it.
That's one thing I love about this story. Hazel has a dream. He knows what he wants and he sets out to achieve it. The road there isn't an easy one by any means but it's his determination that keeps him going. He knows what will make him happy. How many of us can say this? I feel that after almost fifteen years of being together, DH and I are finally on our way to finding the happiness that we have been seeking. Don't get me wrong...I'm not saying that we've been unhappy all this time but it's almost like we end up just living from day to day, waiting until that opportunity comes along. Some find it faster than others but the constant remains the journey. There is always a journey.
So, how's that for deep thinking on a Saturday afternoon? LOL! I'll end this post on a lighter note then ;o) Over the years I have been trying to collect a set of Watership Down figurines that were produced back in the 70's (I believe). These are the characters that I have so far -
Stupid me packed these away before writing down the information that was underneath them :oS I really don't know much about them but I believe they were produced in the UK and there was the name New Orleans. I received two from a very special friend who was lucky enough to find them at a flea market and the rest have come from EBay. If anyone knows more about these or where I can get additional ones to complete my collection, plmk. Thanks!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Animal Facts...
...you may or may not know ;o)
The average hen will lay 227 eggs a year.
The blood of a snowshoe crab is blue.
Chickens that lay brown eggs have red earlobes. There is a genetic link between the two.
The placement of a donkey's eyes in its head enables it to see all four feet at all times.
A Holstein's spots are like fingerprints. No two cows have the same pattern of spots.
Turtles can breathe through their butts.
Donkeys kill more people annually than plane crashes.
It's possible to lead a cow upstairs but not downstairs.
A polar bears fur is transparent in colour.
A duck's quack doesn't echo and no one knows why :o)
The average hen will lay 227 eggs a year.
The blood of a snowshoe crab is blue.
Chickens that lay brown eggs have red earlobes. There is a genetic link between the two.
The placement of a donkey's eyes in its head enables it to see all four feet at all times.
A Holstein's spots are like fingerprints. No two cows have the same pattern of spots.
Turtles can breathe through their butts.
Donkeys kill more people annually than plane crashes.
It's possible to lead a cow upstairs but not downstairs.
A polar bears fur is transparent in colour.
A duck's quack doesn't echo and no one knows why :o)
Sunday, September 14, 2008
We Have A Michaels
It took years but we finally got one!!!! I know it isn't a LNS but at least it's a craft store and somewhere that I can buy DMC at a reasonable price. Yesterday they opened their doors for the first time. I didn't think I was going to be anywhere near the store so I hadn't planned on being there. Someone must have been smiling down on me because I was dropped off right in front of the store :o)
As soon as I got to the floss section, lo and behold there was Carolyn! She wasn't kidding when she said she was going to be there the first day they opened. We had a quick chat and then I picked up some floss. Out of all the floss that I have, I couldn't believe it when I only had one 451 in my stash! That's always the way though isn't it? LOL!
Well, the contractors are finished! The building for The Needlework Shop is complete -
There were times when I didn't think they were going to finish their job but they came through and worked steadily all week ;o) Now I have some time off while I hunt down a landscaper so it's back to stitching Tot. I wonder how hard it is to get a landscaper at this time of year. Anyone know?
DH and I had some company this weekend :o) Mom and Dad arrived Friday evening and work started on the bathroom right away. Because we'll be putting the house up for sale as soon as possible, we're trying to get some of the remaining renovation projects completed. One of those projects was the main bathroom. It was really dated with the grey fixtures so it just needed a makeover ;o) This was the progress by Saturday morning -
No more grey fixtures (okay, except the sink) and no more gross flooring :o) GONE! Woohoo! This is the status as of today -
Have you ever seen a redneck's shower before? Well it probably looks something like this ;o) LOL! Toilet and tub are in as well as my new floor. We ended up falling behind but not because of something we did. DH and I had picked up the roll of flooring a few years ago and on the label it stated - "6 ft x 9 ft, approximate size (minimum size 6' x 8'9")" but when we rolled it out, it was only 6' x 6'. Hmmm...where did the other 3' go???? Grrrr! Sooooo, DH had to run back into town to get new flooring.
I'm really pleased with the work that got done this weekend though and I've got to thank Dad and DH for their hard work. Mom did her share of the work though and ended up babysitting Brie the majority of the time. LOL! I'm sure if you asked her though, she'd say she doesn't consider it work when it comes to her grand-dog ;o)
As soon as I got to the floss section, lo and behold there was Carolyn! She wasn't kidding when she said she was going to be there the first day they opened. We had a quick chat and then I picked up some floss. Out of all the floss that I have, I couldn't believe it when I only had one 451 in my stash! That's always the way though isn't it? LOL!
Well, the contractors are finished! The building for The Needlework Shop is complete -
There were times when I didn't think they were going to finish their job but they came through and worked steadily all week ;o) Now I have some time off while I hunt down a landscaper so it's back to stitching Tot. I wonder how hard it is to get a landscaper at this time of year. Anyone know?
DH and I had some company this weekend :o) Mom and Dad arrived Friday evening and work started on the bathroom right away. Because we'll be putting the house up for sale as soon as possible, we're trying to get some of the remaining renovation projects completed. One of those projects was the main bathroom. It was really dated with the grey fixtures so it just needed a makeover ;o) This was the progress by Saturday morning -
No more grey fixtures (okay, except the sink) and no more gross flooring :o) GONE! Woohoo! This is the status as of today -
Have you ever seen a redneck's shower before? Well it probably looks something like this ;o) LOL! Toilet and tub are in as well as my new floor. We ended up falling behind but not because of something we did. DH and I had picked up the roll of flooring a few years ago and on the label it stated - "6 ft x 9 ft, approximate size (minimum size 6' x 8'9")" but when we rolled it out, it was only 6' x 6'. Hmmm...where did the other 3' go???? Grrrr! Sooooo, DH had to run back into town to get new flooring.
I'm really pleased with the work that got done this weekend though and I've got to thank Dad and DH for their hard work. Mom did her share of the work though and ended up babysitting Brie the majority of the time. LOL! I'm sure if you asked her though, she'd say she doesn't consider it work when it comes to her grand-dog ;o)
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