Thursday, May 31st - Lloyd has one more sleep before his last day at work

It's a damp and foggy 9' this morning but should clear and warm up to 15' with sun and cloud this afternoon - just what my little garden needs!

Lloyd is anxiously awaiting Friday - his last day. He's looking after Meghan on Thurday night and then dropping her off at school in the morning so his day will be off to a late start. Then likely a slow day, maybe some cake, and then he's done. I remember that feeling of the last day, and it feels really strange, knowing you're soon leaving everyone and everything behind to start a new life in another place (been there, done that!).

Last night Brenda and I went to the movies and saw "The Most Exotic Marigold Hotel" and it was great. It had a brilliant cast and was very funny. We both really enjoyed it. When it was over we went to Cedars for a bite to eat, thanks to Will who came over and let the dog out. Now this morning, said dog is off for a spa day - bath, haircut and nails trimmed. He's got quite the life that one. So I'm cutting this short this morning as I have to  leave a bit earlier to drop him off.


Today the boys leave for Cooperstown. I know they're pretty excited. I was checking out the website yesterday and the list of teams  for the week is online. Our boys are the only Canadian team there next week.

So they've picked up small Canadian flags for each of them to carry during the opening ceremonies and their local MP have given them a full size flag to carry as well. They also have a large team banner so I look forward to seeing photos. Other family members are welcome to come to the ceremonies to watch. This will be an amazing experience for all of them. A lot of the other teams are from states that can play ball all year long so they are up against some pretty serious competition but just the opportunity will be worth it. And knowing James, who is very sociable, he'll come home with at least 100 new friends. Kids today have so many more opportunities than we ever did, or even our kids.

An aerial view of the park. I count at least 23 ball diamonds. 

Have a wonderful, and safe trip guys!

Wednesday, May 30th - the rains has arrived

It's a little balmier than yesterday morning, 6' with light rain - just what my little garden needs. I stopped by there on my way to work yesterday morning and uncovered the plants and all is well. Now the rain has finally come to give them a much needed drink. Although even without any watering yet, the cucumber plants have some new leaves on them so all is well. 

On my way past Richard and Daralens, I noticed that the Lupins in the ditch by their house are blooming. Very soon all the open green spaces such as ditches and un-tilled fields will be ablaze with colour. I love when they are in bloom. They're so pretty and such an iconic sight for PEI. 

We might be complaining that it's a bit chilly from time to time but I don't miss what Ontario has been experiencing recently. Yesterday morning I was listening to the Guelph radio station online at work and at 7:30 it was 24' with a humidex reading of 31' - and it's only May! I talked with Lloyd a little later and his only comment on the weather was "it's stinking hot"  He won't miss it either.

As the days count down, he's anxiously awaiting the time when he can leave Ontario and return to the east, as it was after all, his idea. Not that I'm complaining - I can't imagine living anywhere else now that I've been here for a while.  One of his co-workers retired a few months back and she and her husband built a house in Nova Scotia in the Annapolis Valley area. We look forward to having the opportunity to visit them once he gets here. I received a phone call from Sandra on Sunday and I haven't chatted with her in a very long time. It was nice to catch up a bit, although I did have to cut it short as I was on my way to pick up Brenda. But now we'll be able to get together from time to time. She has tried to email me several times and it always bounces back. She gave me her email address and when I tried to email her, it bounced back. I have no idea what's going on with that. I guess we'll have to communicate the old fashioned way - telephone or snail mail!

And finally, James has started his umpiring job (Fran will be so proud!)

Patti sent me this photo of him all ready for his 'first day on the job".  He looks so grown up and professional, although the shirt is a little big, but I suspect it was likely the smallest one they had and his skinny little body swims in it! Well done James.  

Tuesday, May 29th - the farmers were right!

When I got out of bed this morning, I looked out the window to see a layer of frost on the roof of the shed. When I let the dog out I checked the windshield of the car and if I were going out now, I would almost need to scrape the windows. The Weather Network says it's now 3' (at 5:00 am) so I'm not sure how low it got last night. I just know I'm glad I covered up my plants over on Five Houses Road last night. I used rocks and old bricks to hold the plastic sheets down and I'm hoping they held in place. I'll check on my way to work this morning when I go to uncover them. Worst case scenario, the plants need to be replaced. There's not that many of them if they do. I did forget about my petunias in the planter beside the house but they appear to be fine this morning. I'm thinking they were close enough to the house that they weren't affected. But we'll see later today. It's only going up to 12' later so it will be a cooler one.

On Sunday evening, Brenda and I went over to the Rec Centre for an evening of music and socializing in honour of the Irish visitors. It seems back in 1990, as part of a tourism initiative, between PEI and Ireland, Irish people were invited to visit in hopes that they would go back and encourage other Irish people to visit in the future. And likewise, our residents would visit Ireland and encourage islanders to visit there. Now, some 22 years later, long after the initiative has finished, Fort Augustus continues to honour this tradition. An association was formed years ago and their job is to organize the visit each year. The numbers who arrive each year can change and this year there were only three. Places are found for these visitors to stay and tours and events are organized for them during the week or so that they are here. Often they are local politicians from County Monaghan area, who are able to return and share their experiences with their constituents. With so much Irish heritage in the area, it's nice to see they are keeping those connections for future generations.

I'm told that if you travel to Ireland and have some names of some of these folks to contact, you are treated like royalty when you arrive. Caitlin had that experience a few years ago when she and some friends connected with some of the previous Irish visitors over there and spent a particularly enjoyable evening at a pub with the locals. What a great vacation experience. Then to have the opportunity meet the same fellow again when he came back to PEI the next time,  was tremendous. They are having some kind of homecoming festival next year and are hoping as many people as possible will travel to Ireland. Perhaps that's when Brenda and I should make that trip we've been talking about for a while now.

This week I'm at home all week, but there are several things on the go I should have been attending over the next week or so:
1) the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in London - to see Sir Paul in concert ( I was there for the Golden Jubilee so I suppose it will be the same sort of event)
2) The IAAP Canadian Conference in Waterloo, hosted by my old chapter for the first time
3) A conference in town for Chef Educators (which I'm told I'm qualified to attend by virtue of community school)

But for one reason and another I'm not attending any of those things. A couple of months ago I was trying to juggle things so I could attend as many as possible but now none are on the radar. My vacation scheduling is still up in the air, waiting on outside influences to dictate what I may need my holidays for, and I also want to make sure I have some days off left when those little kids visit, whenever that turns out to be. So I'm content to stay here in this lovely, green place and watch the humming birds. What can I say, it really doesn't take that much to make me happy!

Monday, May 28th - it was a glorious island weekend

Well, I learned a valuable lesson on the weekend. Don't assume that because you read it online, that it's true. I dutifully did my research last week and for our area it said to plant various seeds and plants at certain times and the ones I planted were to be planted between May 15th and 30th - which I did on Friday night. Only on Saturday did I learn from dear friends Brenda and Bernie, that we don't usually plant things until the first of June, or after the full moon, because there is still a risk of frost. What was I thinking in not checking with my 'go to' people first?
It was a beautiful weekend and my thought was, naw, it's okay, it will be fine. BUT this morning I open up the weather network, and there, in bright red letters, at the very top are these four deadly words - "FROST WARNING IN EFFECT" - for tonight. Can you believe that? It's 5' this morning and we should reach a sunny 16' later but tonight it may go down to 3' with a risk of frost. Guess I know what I'll be doing tonight - covering up my little plants, then I'll swing by and uncover them again in the morning. Better to be safe than sorry.

I spent all evening Friday after work, raking, hoeing and planting my little patch of ground. The guys left me a strip down the side of the field that is perfect for my purposes. It's not a very big garden patch but for the first year it will be enough to start with. Especially when I don't know for sure how long it's going to take Lloyd to get down here. We'll be better organized next year as we'll have the whole winter to plan it all out. For full details of my little attempt at horticulture, skip on over to the other site, www.atourislandtable.blogspot.com where I'll keep it updated with the progress of things.

Saturday morning looked like it was going to rain all day long but by the time I got home from work, it had finally cleared up quite nicely so I was able to cut ALL the grass. I still have some trimming to do and the patches that I can't get to with the riding lawn mower, but the bulk of it is done. Just in time to head over to the Van Gaals for supper. The boys were all working in the fields so we planned on a late supper. Brenda had found a recipe with shrimp and smoked sausage and pasta and all kinds of yummy things that we tried.She also had a recipe she got from her sister in law for fiddle head soup that we wanted to try.  I had some apples I was needing to utilize so I made an apple crisp and brought that over as well. We spent the better part of the evening cooking and it was just ready when Bernie came in. Talk about timing! The fiddle head soup had a nice fresh flavour but Brenda says it was thicker when she had it at her sister in law's. It may have been the type of potatoes we used, or who knows what.  The pasta dish was also very good. It was flavourful with just a touch of heat to it but we would increase the amount of sauce ingredients next time. We overcooked the apple crisp because both of us kind of forgot it was in the oven, (and no, we didn't have any wine while we were cooking) but with a bit of ice cream, it was still okay.

Sunday we planned to take our bikes on a bit of a tour of the National Park before we have to pay to get in and before  it gets busy with the summer crowd. My bike was at Brenda's so I met her over there a little after 10:00.  Unfortunately, for reasons we just can't comprehend, her key was left on and her battery was totally dead. Bernie tried charging it but it wouldn't keep going. So we put a trickle charger on it and went back inside to make breakfast. After we ate, we checked it again and it still wasn't charging. So, on to plan B, which is usually kayaking. But, as it is the middle of planting season, the truck we would normally use wasn't available. On to plan C - which was bicycling on the trail. We've never done that before but we've talked about it a bit. So I decided to drive my motorcycle home, and Brenda  would follow me if my car, after we put her bike on the bike rack. I knew I would be a few minutes ahead of her as she had to go and get changed. Well, my ride home was uneventful until I got to the driveway. I slowed down too much at the end and stalled it as I made the turn. I re-started it  and was just coming up the hill when I was distracted by a car backing out of the neighbours driveway.  I turned to see who it was, as it was a car I didn't recognize (okay, I was nosey)  and when I turned back it was just in time to see the front wheel of my bike about to slide off the side of a rut in the road. I knew it was going over so I was able to get my left leg out of the way. Fortunately I was going very slowly (or I might have been fine if I'd had my speed up a little) but over she went. I was quite pleased that I was able to pick it back up again, albeit with quite a bit of effort. As I was almost at the top of the slope I just pushed it the rest of the way. The problem is now it won't start.  Bernie says he'll come over one night and have a look at it when he gets some time.

So I parked it out of the way, and went and got changed. A few minutes later Brenda arrived and we decided that we just were not meant to motorcycle yesterday. Instead we loaded up my bicycle and headed over to Morrell. The trail from there to St. Peter's is particularly beautiful as it has many water views of the Morrell River. It was perfect biking weather - not too hot with a slight breeze. At first we found it a bit chilly but once we got going it was great. We were surprised that the trails weren't busier but we only met 3 or 4 other bikes the entire time. For our first time out on bicycles in a very long time we thought we did pretty well.

 There are signs along the way marking the number of kms. and we did a total of 12 km. I'm not feeling it today, but I know I will tomorrow. I am finding my arms, shoulders and upper back a little stiff but I suspect that's from picking up the motorcycle.

After our ride, we loaded up and came back to my place for a much deserved glass of wine and a couple of quesadillas.

My crepe maker was used in the morning to make tortillas and again to cook the quesadillas and it worked brilliantly. I think that will be supper again tonight.  We sat outside at the back and enjoyed the sunshine and the buzz of multiple humming birds visiting the new feeders I put out yesterday. They really are amazing little birds.

After eating, I drove Brenda home and we decided to go to the Rec Centre to see the Irish visitors. I'll tell you about that tomorrow.

Friday. May 25th - another gorgeous day in store

Yesterday was absolutely beautiful and it looks like we should be in for more of the same today. Right now it's 9' with some clouds but we should reach a sunny 22' later this afternoon. Love it!
Yesterday at lunch, I was on a mission.  I had researched when to plant what and headed out to first pick up a hoe. While I was at Canadian Tire, I also picked up some plants. I have big tomatoes and cherry tomatoes, green peppers ( I think, the tag just says 'peppers'), and they also had some bean plants that are about 8' tall. I'm also going to plant some bean seeds but these will be ready a little sooner, perhaps.

I packed all my stuff up and headed over to Five Houses Road and I saw Ethan just walking up the hill. They were working on Richards field and getting them ready for planting so he suggested I wait till they're all done and it will be nice and ready to go. So I will wait a day or two more. I still have to pick up some seeds anyway, so it's better that I wait. That will also give me a little more time to get everything I need before I start planting.

Other than that it was an uneventful night. I came home and puttered around outside. I should have cut more grass but it was around 7:30 so I decided it was a little too late to get started..  I'll do some when I get home tonight, starting as soon as I get home. It's amazing how much I can get done in one evening if I start at it right away.

As the weekend approaches, my internet speeds decreaseing so I'm going to call it quits for this morning. Have a great weekend everyone. It should be a nice one here so hopefully we'll have some time to get out and enjoy it.

Thursday, May 24th - so no rain after all

We waited, and prepared for rain, for the past two days, but it didn't happen. Now this morning is a sunny 6' and we're heading for an even sunnier 20' later. How great is that?  Tonight I plan to spend some time preparing my little garden patch. I may even pick up some seeds at lunch today. I was over there last night and put a couple of stakes and some string in, to stake out my territory but I don't think the boys will be planting there today so it's okay. I had planned to put it on the corner closest to the road but perhaps it should be a bit further back so it won't be quite so visible from the road. A totally unattended vegetable garden just might be appealing to passers by, but who knows. I'll re-think that today and decide when I arrive this afternoon, rake in hand and doused liberally with bug spray!

I had a chat with Lloyd last night. He's now experiencing what I had when I was leaving - a steady rush of lunches and dinners as everyone you know wants to have a chance to see you one more time before you leave. He's definitely excited about it and is busy making plans as there are some things he won't have after June 1st - like a cell phone, etc. Good thing I bought a car - at least he has a vehicle because that also went with the job.

I also had a 'chat' with Patti yesterday via Blackberry Messenger. Meghan is getting geared up for her dance recital and James is really excited about the ball tournament he's going to at Cooperstown Dreams Park. It looks like quite the place. He and his dad will be staying there and Patti and Tristen will be staying somewhere else close by. I'm sure Tristen will enjoy having his mom all to himself. Greg's mom is coming to Guelph to stay with Meghan and help her get ready for the recital. She doesn't live in Guelph anymore and is doing the same thing I did when I stayed with the kids - lots of lunch dates to catch up with everyone you haven't seen in a while.

Last years winning team - they're going to have
such a great time

Patti tells me James was checking out the ball park as they have stats with records that kids have broken each year. He was looking to see what records he could attempt to break and she pointed out that he might set the record for the smallest kid there - I don't think he was impressed with that. He might be small but they don't call him Speedy James for nothing!  It will be a great experience for the entire team - check it out.  http://www.cooperstowndreamspark.com/  It's a very American experience but those folks take their baseball VERY seriously.

Wednesday, May 23rd - the internet gremlins have struck again

My internet connection this morning is virtually non-existent so I've wasted a lot of my morning trying to get to this very spot. But fortunately there's not a lot to write about so it all works out! It's damp out and looks like it has rained a little. It's also 15' but it should rain most of the day and go down to 9' later this afternoon. We expected rain yesterday but it really didn't materialize save for a few tiny showers off and on. For the most part it was a nice, warm day.

On the weekend I was whining (what else is new) about needing a place dug up to plant a garden. Bernie, in his infinite wisdom, (who I'm sure by now hates listening to me whine) pointed out that I had a whole field that was plowed and ready to be planted. Of course it's a few km's away but it would work. So last evening, before it got dark, I took a drive over to check it out, and low and behold, it is indeed a thing of beauty. He was right (of course he was right, he did the work). While there, I was stopped by the Five Houses Road Police Department who wanted to know if I had a 2012 pass for that road. I assured him I did, so he let me stay. Besides he was too busy trying to catch critters to worry much about what I was doing. It seems he's after a skunk, a racoon and another unknown varmint that he's trying to capture. Good luck with that Richard!
Saturday I'm going over there with a rake, and a hoe (which I need to buy first)  and some seeds (which I also need to buy) - and a bucket of bug spray, if last night was any indication, and I'm going to plant me some vegetables!  I'll bring along some stakes and string and mark off the plot I intend to use so he knows where it is. I certainly don't plan on using very much of it. I was looking at the corner on the front where the bunky proudly stood, but because of the trees, I'm probably better to go to the other edge, closer to Richard's property (with the mini home on it) because that spot will get more sun.  I'm really not a gardener, did I mention that? So I don't how successful this endeavor will be but if nothing else, it will be a learning experience. And isn't that what it's all about?

Tuesday, May 22nd - what a glorious weekend

The early herb garden

It's a clear 13' this morning and we should reach 23' later but expect some showers later in the afternoon. That's okay because it was a fabulous weekend. It all started out with a fund raising dinner in town Friday night at the Rodd Royalty. I had been given the tickets at work so Brenda and I were pleased to enjoy someone's generosity.  It was a very entertaining evening and we were sat with some nice people. The silent and live auctions raised a lot of money for the Autism Society and the entertainment was very enjoyable, as was the meal. All in all, a great evening.

Saturday morning I was at work when I got a call from Brenda. Someone had dropped of a bunch of lobsters so I would need to come over for supper to help them out. It's a chore but what are friends for? So it was lobster - again - for something like the 4th or 5th time in little over a week. I picked up my favorite orange cake at M and M's and tucked that away in  the freezer when I got home. It was a warm sunny afternoon so I was happy to get some real work done outside. I finally tackled the little bed of herbs at the side of the house as well as weeded and cleaned out the flower bed at the front. Several of the petunias re-seeded themselves from last year but other than that there's nothing in that bed. I did pick up a hosta but I need to search out some more perennials. I pass by several places on my way home from work that have signs out and I'll investigate that further this week.  After cleaning up it was off to supper at Chez Van Gaal. And what a delight - again.

Don't I look good on this?

Our next plan was to get up and head out very early on Sunday morning. The motorcycle that Bernie had bought in Arizona had been shipped to Maine and was ready to be picked up. So promptly at 6:00 am the three of us headed for Houlton, Maine in the truck. It was a beautiful sunny day and although the temperatures weren't going to be so hot here on the island, in New Brunswick we were headed for the low 20's so we were sure to take our shorts and sandals with us to change into later. We stopped along the way and had a wonderful breakfast not too far from Fredericton. Then it was back on the road again. Once we crossed the border - which I thought might be an issue as I noticed that morning that my passport had expired - we were on our way. The fellow who owns the business where the bike was shipped to met us there. Unfortunately there were some technical difficulties and it wouldn't start but eventually they got it going. The plan was for Bernie to drive the bike back and we would take the truck. More troubles with the bike starting continued - sometimes it would start, and sometimes it wouldn't. Once Bernie had cleared customs (and finished chatting with the very pleasant customs officer) it once again would not start. Fortunately there was a slight grade in the parking lot so Brenda and I helped push it up the hill and the we pushed it to give it a running start. After two attempts he took off. We all headed for Fredericton from there. The plan was to stop and visit Bernie's sister Mary and her family. We spent a pleasant time there checking out her beautiful flower beds. What a spectacular sight, and she was complaining that she hasn't done any work in them yet. I was blown away. She certainly has a real talent for gardening. It was totally inspiring and gave me some ideas of what is

Some of Mary's gardens

possible here with a lot of time (and a lot of work) but it would be so worth it.  At that point the decision was made to load the bike in the back of the truck. After overcoming a few obstacles, the bike was loaded and we were on our way to visit another sister of Bernie's who has a condo in the centre of town. We visited with them for a bit then the four of us went out to supper on an outdoor patio at a restaurant a short walk away. It was a great time and I really enjoyed meeting everyone and we had a really nice meal. A big thanks to them as well.
The it was on the road again. We followed the river out of town and it's a very scenic and pleasant drive. It was after 8:00 when we left Fredericton so Brenda sent a message to Will to ask if he would come over and let poor Cooper out and give him some supper. He was very obliging and both Cooper and I were grateful.
The rest of the ride home was uneventful and if you can have an uneventful drive home through New Brunswick's moose and deer population, that's a GOOD thing. It was exactly midnight when we pulled into the Van Gaal's driveway. It had been a long day but a fun one. Thanks again, guys, for inviting me along.

More of Mary's gardens

Monday morning again dawned sunny and mild. So after watching a bit of TV online ( it was a season finale I just had to see) and having a coffee, it was time to get to work. I had invited the Van Gaal family for supper being as I've had supper there at least a dozen time in the past while so it was most definitely my turn.  I did all my prep work early and had everything ready to just be warmed up on the BBQ when they were done working for the day. In the meantime, Lloyd called to report that they had gotten home okay on Sunday around noon. Sounds like a good time was had by all. But now the push is on to finish the plane. After chatting with him,  I headed out and picked up some gas for the mower. I did the grass around the house but that was it. It was so nice and sunny I really wanted to take advantage of the day so I sat outside for a while and read my book and had a cold drink. It was nice and warm but also very windy so bugs were not an issue, which is always a bonus out here. I had a lot of laundry that needed doing but it was TOO windy to hang it out and I decided to leave that for a rainy day, which will probably be this evening, but that's okay.
It was such a relaxing say I felt a nap might be in order as well, so that accounted for about an hour of my time.

I may not have great flowers, but I have an amazing crop of
"Miniature Meadow Marigolds"

The Van Gaals didn't receive the seed they needed so they arrived a little earlier than I thought they might, which was good. The boys arrived in Ethan's car and Brenda and Bernie in the truck. I had braised some spare ribs in the morning and made twice baked potatoes so all I had to do was put the ribs on the BBQ to heat and add some sauce and pop the potatoes in the oven to warm up. Some cooked baby carrots and a bit of coleslaw and it was supper. Brenda brought  the left over cake from Saturday and that combined with the butter tarts I'd made earlier in the day was dessert. It was a simple supper and an early evening for all of us. A perfect end to a great weekend.

Friday, May 18th - Hello long weekend!

It's a cool 6' at 5:15 am but it should reach a sunny 17' later this afternoon. The forecast is still calling for a sunny few days so let's hope they've got it right this time cause I'm all ready for a long weekend.

Yesterday at lunch I filled up my propane tank and after work I went to the liquor store and picked up a case of wine. Long weekend?  Bring it on!!!  I even did something on my way home that I absolutely never do. I was quite hungry by the time I was finished with the wine and I knew I hadn't taken anything out of the freezer for supper. Not that there wasn't anything else I could have eaten, but I just didn't want to wait. So I went to Cedars and had supper, all my myself. I had a gift certificate with $22.00 left on it so I thought, what the heck. The really funny part is when I walked in, there was a woman sitting at the table right by the door and I thought she looked familiar but I wasn't sure where I knew her from so I didn't say anything, even though she looked at me as well and smiled. I was waiting for someone to seat me and I turned again and looked at her dining companion and then I recognized her. It was the same lady and her son we sat beside at the restaurant in town on Sunday morning. Brenda knew her. Once I spotted her son then I knew exactly where I'd met her before. So then I said hello and we both laughed because here we were all eating out - again! It's such a small place here.

Once I got home and put the wine away, I promptly sat down to watch a program from Sunday that I was anxious to see. And that pretty much was my night. I had planned to do some laundry but I figured I might as well wait till the weekend at that point. My grass was cut, my house was tidied so it was a stress free, relaxing evening.

Tonight Brenda and I are attending a fund raising dinner in town for the Autism Society. I was given the tickets at work so we jumped all over a free dinner and some entertainment. So when I get home from work, I'll get changed then pick Brenda up and we're out for a night on the town. But we may have to make it an early night but that's okay. Rumour has it we may have to make a trip tomorrow to Maine to pick up a motorcycle for Bernie. I won't know for sure until this morning but it sounds like it would be fun. Of course we'd have to leave at 4:00 am but that's okay too.  I'm just waiting for confirmation from her a little later so I can tell them at work I need Saturday off, which I'm sure won't be a big deal. It's the first long weekend of the summer so I don't suspect that buying a new car is first and foremost on too many people's minds.With the nice weather I think most people will take advantage to do gardening or cottaging or just all round fun stuff.

The boys should be back from Virginia sometime over the weekend so I guess I'll hear from Lloyd when he gets home. It's hard to believe his last day at work will be two weeks from today.  The pressure is really on now to get the plane done and move here - I know he can hardly wait and I have to say I'm really looking forward to it as well.

Happy long weekend everybody!

Thursday, May 17th - it's getting greener and greener

At 5:30 this morning it's a dry and pleasant 15' but it may rain some this morning and again this afternoon and reach a high of 19'. We anticipated lots of rain yesterday and so activities were planned around that but it really didn't materialize. We had tiny showers once in a while but for the most part, it was a pleasant day.

I actually got a few things done around the house last night. I finally moved all the furniture back from when the TV people were here. I expect I'll hear something one way or another in the next couple of weeks. I tidied up and now things are back to what ever is normal! Other than boring house work there's not much new out here. Brenda and Bernie are kept very busy this time of year with farming and with Lloyd away, it's been pretty quiet.

Tonight I'm stopping by the liquor store and bottling some wine. My stock is completely depleted and badly in need of replenishing. The bottles are all washed and in the car. I also need to refill my propane tank as well so that will be my second stop on the way home. I'm hoping to use the BBQ sometime over the weekend as it promises to be a nice weekend. Let's hope they're right. I also plan to do some yard work as I'm not working at the restaurant on Sunday so I'll have a glorious 2 1/2 days to putter outside if the weather cooperates. Of course there will be some activity on Sunday afternoon but that still leaves lots of other time. My flower bed out front badly needs some attention and I want to finish cleaning the siding on the house as well. I got a lot of it done last Sunday and hopefully I can finish it this week.

Yesterday morning as I was finishing up on the computer here at home in front of the side window, I saw the first hummingbird of the season. It's time to get the feeder filled. I love watching them come to the window and listening to the sound their beating wings makes.  As predicted, the leaves on the trees have opened up. They still have a bit of growing to do but in a matter of days the view outside my window will be nothing but lush greenery. That's one thing I particularly love about the island. The vivid greens of all the plants and grasses stays that way all summer, not like when I lived in Ontario and part way through the summer the lawns are all dry and brown because of the lack of rain. Here that never happens.

Wednesday, May 16th - halfway to the long weekend!

It's not raining yet but it is supposed to rain most of the day today. It's 14' at 5:30 am and we'll hit 18' later but with showers most of the day. Good thing, because I really need to do some work inside the house.
Last night I was able to finish the rest of the grass. Now it's all done for the first time. It really does look so much better with the grass mown. There are still a few little spots that need trimming but it was threatening rain when I was finishing up so I thought it best to call it a night. As I was doing the last bits the clouds rolled in big and black and the wind picked up so I hurried to get everything put away before it poured. Then an hour later it had passed right by. But I think we'll be getting some of that rain this morning.

Other than that it was a pretty uneventful evening. I watched some stuff online then read for a little while. My Kobo quit and because it was still under warranty they sent me a new one and it arrived yesterday. I was able to re-load a book I had just started reading when it died so now I can finish it. I find I'm reading a lot more with it because it's just so convenient. I can carry it in my purse and anytime I find myself waiting somewhere I can just pull it out and read a couple of pages. I really missed that while I didn't have it.

I talked to Lloyd yesterday and he and the boys were heading out to go golfing. I hope they know Lloyd doesn't golf! He finds it a very frustrating game and really doesn't enjoy it at all. But if the others aren't too serious at playing it should be fine. I doubt that any of them are really that dedicated to the sport. They're just there for the good time. He tellls me the weather was warm but not too hot so very comfortable and they've eaten way too much already. Why does that not surprise me?? Sounds like a good time is being had by all.

Speaking of a good time, anyone who knows me well knows that house work is not my forte. If another opportunity comes along to do something a little more interesting, I'm all over it. I can do it when I need to but it's just not always high on my list of priorities. I've occasionally wondered about one of those robo vacuums that goes around and cleans the floor during the day while you're away and whether or not they might be a good idea. Katy sent me this clip that pretty much verifies that it might not be a great thing, especially if you have pets... check it out

Tuesday, May 15th - hard to believe we're half way through May already

It's a pleasant 13' this morning but it's overcast and it has rained a little. We should have a few more showers this morning then just cloud for the afternoon but it will rise to 19' later. It was a funny day yesterday with  tiny showers once in a while. Fortunately they had disappeared by the time I went home. It was nice and warm and I was able to tackle phase two of the grass cutting. This time it was the big piece out back with the little trees. It's such a nuisance to mow around all those and it takes a long time. Tonight I'll do the lawn at the side of the house and then I'll just have some trimming to do. Then it will likely be ready to start all over again!

When I got off the lawn mower (mostly because I was just about out of gas) I started a fire in the fire pit. I had quite a large pile of branches I'd picked up in the front yard so I got those all taken care of. Once the fire was blazing, I went inside and got myself a beer and a lawn chair and sat and enjoyed the view. That's one thing about summer  that I truly enjoy - sitting by a bonfire. Fortunately there was a very tiny breeze so the smoke all went in one direction and the smoke was enough to keep the bugs away. What more can one ask for? Okay, three little kids and a bag of marshmallow would have made it perfect!

This warm weather combined with a bit of rain has made the leaves on the trees burst out. Some are quite green with new growth but others, like the Linden trees in my front yard, are slower to come. Then again, they are also later losing their leaves in the fall. But in another week or two they should all be out. Especially if we get the warm sunny weather they are predicting for the weekend - I'm cautiously optimistic they might have it right, but it's a little too early to get our hopes up just yet.

Monday, May 14th - finally got out for a ride

It's a balmy 9' this morning and we should hit 17' later on. It's not what they've been experiencing in Ontario recently but it's going to be a pretty fine day.

It was a busy weekend and the weather more or less cooperated. Friday night I went up to St. Peter's for the memorial service. It was packed with people. They've done well establishing themselves in the community as they've only been here for six years. It was a very nice ceremony and I was pleased that I actually knew a couple of people. I didn't attend the reception after, but instead went over to the Van Gaals for tea. They were just eating supper so I joined them for a little bit as well. I had brought a cake that was in my freezer and we had that with tea for dessert. I guess it was a win/win for all of us.

Saturday I worked as usual, and when I got home I was finally able to get outside and start cutting some of the grass.  It was overcast by that time and threatening rain, but it held off until I got all of the front yard cut and about half of the yard directly behind the house. I tried to ignore it but the breeze picked up as well and once my clothes were wet I got really cold so it was time to call it quits.  Besides I had to get ready to go to dinner at Chez Van Gaal. And what a dinner it was. Lobster, potato salad, coleslaw, beet salad, home made rolls - yum. There were two couples there I hadn't met before and it was a great evening.

Sunday morning dawned bright and sunny and as I hadn't yet heard anything from the restaurant when they were re-opening,  I had made plans. I saw an ad on line for a slightly bigger bike than mine, and I made arrangements to go and see it on Sunday. I asked Bernie if he would mind looking at it as well. So  the plan was made that after church, he would take Brenda and I out for breakfast and then we would go to look at the bike. But early in the morning, I got up had a coffee and then headed straight outside. It was so nice to have a mild sunny day to actually spend some time out there. I got several things done in a short time before it was time to get changed and head out.  I went over to Brenda's and the three of us headed into town. We had a lovely breakfast then went to see the bike. Unfortunately it wasn't in very good shape and Bernie suggested that it might not be quite what  I was looking for. It seemed to run okay but there was physical damage and needed a bit of money to fix it up, so I passed.  Too bad though, because it would have been the perfect size. Oh well, I'll just have to keep looking. For now I'm quite okay with what I have.

When we got back home we headed out on the road. First a few minutes practicing our stopping, starting and turning before we started out. We went down to the Irving on the Trans Canada and fueled up and headed to Georgetown. It was a bit chilly but we were dressed reasonably warm and as long as the sun was out it was fine. We made a stop along the way to admire the tulips that Vanco plants each year. They grow them for the bulbs, not the flowers but what a spectacle they are when they're all in bloom. We continued on to  Georgetown where we stopped and enjoyed some delicious desserts and a hot cup of tea. (no, we don't do Tim's when we go out on our bikes!). From there we went on back through Cardigan and then home to Brenda's.  It started to sprinkle rain just before we got back and we made it home just in time. We didn't go that far but we put on about 96 kms so not bad for our first run of the year.  Once we put the bikes away and got our leathers off, we went down the road in search of May flowers. I'd never seen them before and now I understand why. They're tiny little flowers that grow very close to the ground in the woods.

You have to really look for them but the have a very pretty fragrance. On our way back we stopped at a patch of rhubarb that Brenda showed me last year and I picked an armful to put into the freezer. So when I got home, I cut that up and put it in bags and just as I was finishing Patti called. I chatted with the boys (Meghan was busy) and Patti then headed into a nice hot bath. Needless to say, that was pretty much my evening. I had planned to do laundry but that will have to wait till tonight. It's not going to rain now like they had predicted all weekend, so I should be able to get some more grass cut tonight right after work. Once it's started, then you're pretty much busy doing that job for the rest of the summer.

Lloyd and the guys got away on Saturday afternoon. They should have arrived in Williamsburg sometime late yesterday. Hopefully they'll have nice weather. Patti mentioned that she'd seen him on Friday when they had their annual Spring Fling fundraiser at the school. As usual, Lloyd won three things. He always wins stuff at that event. He'd already left because he had dinner plans so Patti had to go and pick up his winnings. Every time she went up to collect something people were congratulating her on being so lucky, but unfortunately she didn't actually win anything.  Just Mr. Lucky - as usual.

Wednesday, May 11th - I can tell the weekend is approaching

It's a balmy 11' this morning with a light layer of cloud but the sun rising out my kitchen window  is quickly burning those clouds away. It looks like it might turn out to be a nice day, as planned. So nice in fact, that I should ride my bike to work but it's at Brenda's so that's not an option. Besides we haven't been out for our refresher ride yet and we really need to do that first. Hopefully Sunday will be a nice as they've been promising all week.

I can tell Friday is here as my internet connection is virtually non-existent over the weekend and this morning it's taken forever for the basics to load. They say it's due to our position at a distance from the demarcation points but it's odd that it seems to work not too badly during the week but come the weekend, I have nothing (or at least so little that it's just too frustrating to do anything online). They say it will eventually get better but I'm not holding my breathe.

It rained for a large part of the morning yesterday, although it did clear up in the afternoon, but clouded over again mid way through the day. I was lucky enough to get all the way home, get out the extension cord and plug in the compressor to make sure it worked (it did) and then get back into the house before the skies once again opened up and the wind really picked up. It was quite a blustery evening, to say the least.  But this morning all is well - the sun is peeking through and the wind has died down to a light breeze (in other words, normal).

After making  myself some supper last night I actually did a little scrapbooking. My internet was too slow to attempt to watch anything online so I made the best of the evening. In other words, a pretty uneventful night. Today after work I'll go up to St. Peter's to the service for the girl who was killed in the car crash last Saturday. I've not heard anything yet about when the restaurant will re-open. I suppose there might be some staffing issues as Meghan was a large part of the serving staff. I would imagine they might try to re-open this weekend at it is Mother's Day so they were expecting it to be busy. I'll have to wait and see.

Saturday afternoon, after work will definitely be earmarked for grass cutting. It's starting to look a little too shaggy. It will be good to get it done but it just signals the beginning of a summer long project.I actually enjoy it once I get out there but it's the challenge of having good weather when I have the time to do it that is the problem. Oh well, hopefully Lloyd will be here within the month and that will take some of the pressure off.  He leaves this Saturday with some friends for a golf week in Williamsburg, Virginia ( I think)  and by the time he gets back he'll only have another week or so to work. The clock is quickly ticking.....

Thursday, May 10th - day two of the rain

It's a rainy but very mild 12' this morning. We should reach 16' this afternoon but the rain will continue on until this evening when it will clear and we expect a sunny 17' tomorrow. Looking forward to that. If the weather channel is right, we should have a little cooler Saturday but Sunday should be sunny and very mild - a perfect day to go out for our first ride of the season! What better way to spend Mother's Day.

Last night Brenda came over and we wrestled the compressor out of the basement. It's quite heavy and it wasn't an easy task, especially on those wonky stairs leading up to the outside, but we made it. So now it's in the shed and I just have to plug it in and make sure I can get it to work. If it's not raining too much tonight, I'll do that when I get home. I'm figuring I should be able to cut the lawn on Saturday afternoon when I get home from work. I noticed the other day that all the neighbours have cut theirs and if I don't do it soon, I might get voted off the island!

Once we got inside, we had a glass of wine and I tried out a new recipe for hummus.  It seemed quite garlicky when it was first made but it's much better this morning. I've been doing really well with eating this week. I'm taking veggies and hummus to work every day for my lunch, and having a big bowl of oatmeal for breakfast. Weekends seem to always be a problem but we'll keep on trying.  I have found a couple of other recipes for low fat, low calorie dips that I want to try and if I like them, I'll add them to the recipe blog. As promised click here for the recipe for the Roasted Red Pepper Hummus.

Wednesday, May 9th - the rain has arrived

It's a milder 7' to start off the morning and should climb to 13' later but it's raining very lightly and will continue raining right up until the weekend. The good news (let's hope ) is that Sunday is looking like 16' and sunny. Maybe we just might get out for a little spin on our bikes - at least to the school parking lot for our annual re-training ride!

It was a lovely day yesterday  and I noticed on the way home that all the neighbours had cut their lawns. I really need to get mine done sometime soon (although the rain has fixed that for a few days). I still need to get the compressor out of the basement so Brenda's going to come over tonight and we'll see if the two of us can do it. I'm fairly certain that we can. The guys are just so busy since Bernie got back being as it's now official planting season, that it's not really first and foremost on their radar. But Brenda and I will give it our best shot first.

When I got home last night I dug out my bicycle. Unfortunately the tires are very low but I couldn't find the little hand pump that I know we own. It's around somewhere and I know as soon as I buy another one it will turn up. I picked up a shorter leash at the store yesterday because I want to see if Cooper will run along side the bike. So I attached it to the bike and just walked it out the lane and down the road a bit. He did really well at staying off to the side and keeping moving. I did get on the bike once on the way back just for a minute to see how that went. Unfortunately he thinks he needs to focus on the pedals going around and kept barking at them. I suppose that will pass once he gets used to it. Because of the tires I didn't ride for more than a few feet and I really wanted to see what he would do when you are pedaling. It just might work but it will need a little practice on both our parts first. It would be great if he can do this because he could get a really good workout and so could I. We live so close to the trails and I also have a rack for my car so I could take him and the bike anywhere I want. We'll see how it goes.

I did some searching online yesterday and found an article about Meghan, the girl from the restaurant. Her family will receive visitors at the St Peter’s United Church Friday May 11 from 4-6pm with a service to follow. A reception will be held at Cross Keys Bar and Grill following the service. It will be tight but I'll try to make it there before the service. I'll ask at work if I can leave a few minutes early so I can stop by the house and let the dog out, and still get there before 6:00. I doubt that will be a problem.

Tuesday, May 8th - a pretty quiet evening

It's a foggy 4' this morning but this afternoon we should reach a sunny 16' so that will be really nice. Even though it was sunny yesterday it was still cool. The really warm weather is taking it's time to get here. The rest of the week is predicted to be rainy and a little cooler so if anything is going to get done outside, today might be the day.

Pretty slow news day today. I picked up some veggies at the grocery store last night and made some guacamole (as avocados were on special) and also a pot of broccoli and cheddar soup. I'm still trying to keep up with the healthy eating. I've lost a couple of pounds so that's not too exciting but I'm feeling really good and that's really what it's all about.  The remainder of the evening was spent catching up on some programs on-line. My internet reception is almost non-existent on the weekends so Monday evening has become my evening to watch what I missed last week before it's time to get this weeks programs.

So, I've been sitting here at the computer for 20 minutes and I have absolutely nothing to talk about this morning (as strange as that may seem) so we'll try again tomorrow. Have a great day, where ever you are.

Monday, May 7th - it was an emotion filled weekend

Right now it's a drizzly 4' but should clear up and be a sunny 11' later this afternoon. The warming trend is set to continue for the remainder of the week although we will be getting some much needed rain. Night time lows are not so low this week either so that's nice as well. It's difficult to keep an even temperature this time of year.

Saturday morning was my video interview. I don't think I did as well as I probably could have. I was sitting down during the entire time and I feel like it was a little flat. But I don't know what they're looking for. Time will tell. I don't really think I'm crazy enough or  such an unusual personality. They're interviewing 15 people and choosing 5 so we will see. It's over now and it was a really interesting experience. The gal who came out to do the interviewing and filming was a lot of fun and she indicated when she arrived that it would take approximately 2 hours but she was here almost 4. That's either a really good sign or a really bad one. Stay tuned for results in a few weeks. She's here on the island doing interview right up until Friday of this week.  It was exciting but terrifying at the same time and I was exhausted once it was over. I went and had a cup of tea with Brenda right after then came home and had a 2 hour nap.

I got some really bad news on Saturday as well. I'd heard via an email update from a local radio station that a woman had been killed early Saturday morning. It turns out it was the daughter of the owners of the restaurant where I work on Sunday mornings. She was also a server there. Apparently she lost control of the car and it rolled. She suffered severe head trauma and died in the car. The news reports I read later indicated that alcohol wasn't a factor nor was excessive speed, but some speed may have played a small part. I can't begin to imagine how her mother is feeling. I feel so badly for her. I remember many years ago receiving a call that Patti had been involved in an accident but all they would tell us was what hospital she was in. It was a blizzard outside so the drive to another town took what seemed like forever, and I had no idea what I'd find when we arrived. She had sustained some facial injuries and she looked so awful but she was released and she was going to recover. I will always remember that drive and how terrified I was. I can't begin to imagine what Dottie and Will are going through. My condolences to the entire family.

Sunday afternoon I attended an open house for my friend Donna. She recently underwent major surgery and it was touch and go whether or not she would make it, but she did. She turned 55 yesterday and her theme was "55 and still alive".  I dropped in for a little visit as did a lot of other people. It was great to see her looking so well, but she still has a long recovery ahead of her, as she was just released from the hospital on Friday. But she's a fighter and has a positive attitude and from the crowd around yesterday, she's also surrounded by a great support system.

As I finish writing this, at 6:00 am. Brenda will have been on the road for a least 2 hours. She should be just about finished her first drop off of Tulips in New Brunswick. This is only a day trip but it will be a long day before she gets back tonight. Bernie heads out again on Wednesday for Nova Scotia. This will be a really busy trip with Mother's Day being this weekend. Safe driving guys.

Friday, May 4th - One more sleep to showtime

It's a balmy 5' this morning and we should reach a sunny 12' later. Yesterday was mild enough but the wind was from the north and was quite chilly so it looked much nicer than it really was. I had an uneventful day yesterday although the highlight was a lengthy chat with Patti while I was at lunch. It was good to catch up a bit. I also chatted with my friend Donna, who's still not been released from the hospital but hopefully that will be soon. Her birthday is on Sunday and there's a get together for her at the Lorne Valley Community Centre from 2:00 till 4:00 so I'm going to go for a bit after work. I'll see if Brenda is interested in going with me. She'll know many more people there than I will. I picked up some things yesterday to assemble a gift basket for her. All I need to do today is pick up a bottle of wine to go in it, then  wrap it in basket wrap and call it done.

Yesterday Lloyd emailed me the pictures from his meal at Ruby Wachco's in Toronto. He called me later and said it was probably the best meal he's ever eaten. That's pretty high praise, as we've had some very nice dinners in some pretty fancy places.   The next time we're both in Toronto we'll have to try it. Apparently he as some pictures on facebook as well, but I don't do facebook so hence the emailed version.

I forgot to mention a few days ago, how very lucky I was. The fellow at work who got married in China last summer, brought me in some fresh made Chinese dumplings that Willow had made. Anyone who knows me is well is aware that they are probably my favorite food and these were divine. She says she will teach me how to make them. I know they're a lot of work but they freeze well and the fresh ones are absolutely wonderful (at least I think so!) Can't wait for that lesson.

I found out yesterday that Katy reads the blog on a regular basis.  I got this one from her:

What's in a name?
      Do you remember the famous Olympic skier Picabo Street (pronounced Pee-Ka-Boo) Well, Picabo is not just an athlete. She is now a nurse currently working at an Intensive Care Unit of a large metropolitan hospital. She is not permitted to answer the hospital telephones any longer. It caused too much confusion when she would answer the phone and say, Picabo, I.C.U.

      A good clean joke is hard to find these days - pass it on!


 I emailed her back to let her know I like it and I got this response back - I'm pleased that she's keeping in touch by reading sometimes:

Hi Sandy; I maybe made you laugh at the morning chuckle but I laughed so loud this morning at Bernie's  beard that I woke up our dog and cat both at the same time.


So thank you Bernie, for being so entertaining!


Tonight the final push to tidy the house will be on because the TV person will be here at 10:00 tomorrow morning, so wish me luck! I'll let you know on Monday how it went.

Thursday, May 3 - I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it

It's a brisk -1' this morning and I broke down and lit the fire. It's a bit chilly in the house this morning although it should warm up a little this afternoon. We're heading for a sunny 9'.

Well, the bikers arrived home yesterday afternoon. I received a text message from Brenda advising that Bernie had a surprise for her as well. I asked what it was but she wouldn't say. After work, when I got home I spent a bit of time outside then went inside to make some Roasted Red Pepper Hummus and cut up some veggies. I planned to take them to work for lunch but I also intended to take some over to Brenda to take on her trip this morning to Nova Scotia. As I was cutting up veggies, she called and asked what I was doing. She suggested that I really needed to come over and see 'this',  I told her I planned to anyway and when she asked if I'd eaten supper yet, it all worked. She was just putting on potatoes and was cooking some fish so the timing was perfect. When I got finished chopping I headed over. I drove into the yard and didn't see anything too out of the ordinary. The truck and trailer were there, the bike was beside the trailer and all looked well. So I went inside. Brenda was busy in the kitchen and I started in helping. I heard footsteps coming from the living room and Bernie came around the corner into the kitchen.

Now that's one  dedicated Harley owner. Of course it's permanent - or at least until he shaves it off.  I can only imagine the looks he must have gotten on the rest of the trip.  I suppose that's one of the advantages of a white beard - you can easily change it to any colour.

He also bought another motorcycle while he was down there - a bright red Indian.  It's quite a nice looking bike, but we don't know how long it will take for it to get here.

After we had supper we all collected around the computer to view the pictures he had taken. It looks like they had quite a trip. Being later in the year, more things were open along historic Route 66, than when we were there a few years ago. There also wasn't any snow in the Grand Canyon, either. Although they did drive through some mountains and there was considerable snow along the sides of the roads, although the roads themselves appeared to be clear and dry. But I can only imagine how cold it must have been. They made it all the way to the California border, crossed over, took a photo, then turned around and headed for home.  By all accounts they appear to have had a great time.

Last night Lloyd was going to dine at a restaurant in Toronto that he's been whining about now for a while. So he invited someone from work and they were going last night. I expect to hear all about it later today. I would have liked to join him but I did remind him that we have to put up with eating fresh from the sea lobster every night of the week for the next two months (of course, only if we choose) .  It's a tough life but we are a hearty bunch down here.

Wednesday, May 10th - not so frosty this morning

This morning it's +3' instead of the -3' it was yesterday morning. But it was sunny and much milder in the afternoon yesterday so hopefully it will be the same today. We should reach 10' again today.

It's a slow news day today. I had good intentions of getting outside and doing all kinds of things last night but I ended up on the phone for over an hour with our satellite company to clear up a  billing error. In the end I may have come out the winner. (or at least they made me feel like I had, and that's what it's all about, isn't it)

So when I finally got off the phone, I pulled my push mower out of the shed to see if I could get it to start. By some stroke of luck, it started on the first pull. This enables me to just cut the grass around the back and side of the house. It's not really in great need of cutting but some spots are a little longer so  I just want to even it out before Saturday. Then I decided to try starting the BBQ. I had dragged it out a week or so ago but hadn't actually started it. Same thing, started right away. Needless to say, I was quite pleased. I had taken a small piece of pork tenderloin out of the freezer in the morning and marinated it in some Hoisin sauce for the day, so on to the grill it went. The first BBQ of the season has officially taken place! 

Other than that, I watched a couple of programs on line, then was just doing up some dishes when Brenda happened by. She was on her way somewhere and happened to be in the neighbourhood. So we had a cup of tea and the last two Stroopwafels that were still in my cupboard. She has a busy few days ahead - bus driving today and tulip truck driving tomorrow and Friday. I had stopped by her house on my way home to see when the sticker on my bike runs out. It turns out it's good until July. I was going to suggest we meet somewhere for coffee before she heads to Nova Scotia until she told me she has to leave at 3:30 in the morning, so I decided that coffee could wait till some other time. That's a little TOO early, even for me, a morning person. 

She talked to Bernie yesterday and they had left Toronto but still had a stop to make in Ottawa. It would be late in the day by the time they hit the road. If they push right through, like she expects they will, they should be home later today sometime or more likely this evening. 

Tuesday, May 1 - Happy May Day!

The calendar says May but the temperature sure doesn't. Yesterday our high was 4' although it was sunny. It looked nice from the inside at least. Now this morning it's -3' and we're only going up to 7' (although yesterday they told us it would be 10' today!). Hopefully it will be a little warmer later in the week. I need to get outside and pick up more branches. I had picked a lot of them up last week but the high winds we had at the end of the week brought down more again and it looks like I never touched them. But it was supposed to rain on Saturday when the TV people come but now they've moved that to Sunday. Just our luck to rain on the only day we have to do anything fun outside.

Brenda and I were talking last night and we're going to add a bicycle ride or two each week into our mix. It's a little better exercise than the motorcycles. We both have bikes and we have these great trails to bike on so we really have no excuse. We discussed maybe starting tonight but she's got a busy week planned. The hairy bikers will be back, most likely on Wednesday night. They were back in Canada yesterday and had reached London. The bikes are now stored safely in the trailer and they're on the road once again in the truck. They had a good trip but  are glad to be off the bikes. It's a long haul when you're riding 9 or 10 hours a day. They have a stop to make in Toronto to see Meghan and one in Ottawa to see Caitlin and then they'll head back east.

But in Bernie's absence, it seems the tulip people are quite missing him, so Brenda will be driving the tulip truck this week to make deliveries in  Halifax and various other  locations around Nova Scotia. She leaves on Thursday morning and won't be back till Friday night. I swear that woman can do anything.

Other than that, not much to report this morning. I'm polishing and cleaning to prepare for Saturday as well as planning the menu.  I'll let you know on Monday how it all went.

I got a text message from Patti this morning. The kids are as busy as usual. James has his first baseball game on Monday. I'm assuming it's one that he'll be umpiring for. He's also just started taking the Lifeguard Course at swimming and Patti says it's really a lot of work. Meghan is busy preparing for her dance recital. She's quite excited because she gets to perform a total of 10 times over the three days - 3 numbers on Thursday, 4 on Friday  and 3 on Saturday. As Patti says, at least she'll get her money's worth out of the cost of the dance costumes. She's been pretty busy with some other family stuff herself and I have no idea how she does it. These are the times I wish I were there to help out or there was something I could do. But maybe having a quiet, distant place for her to retreat to once in a while is a help - I hope so.