Welcome to December 2020

Good Morning ALL. I hope that you are doing extra well on this Sunday, December 13, 2020. Our temperatures took a nosedive last night and with the windchill it is hovering around the minus 30 degrees celsius mark. YIKES, what a change from a few days ago at minus 3-6. Winter in Western Canada. Changes faster than I can change socks or drink a glass of water. Are you feeling some humour in my remarks? I am trying. It remains dark outside at this time. No sunrise just yet. Not sure if it is cloudy or not as I have not checked. Are you counting down the days? We are now at “11 sleeps/days” until Christmas Eve Day. I am almost ready for the big day. I made another double batch of fudge and 5 dozen unbaked chocolate macaroons. The macaroons were perfection, just the way they should be which is unlike the last batch. I mean don’t get me wrong they were not not tasty but just not the way that I like them. The fudge was perfection last time and this time why I decided to add the last of the marshmallows without adding more chocolate chips is beyond me. Now again, taste is good but it is a much lighter unchocolate looking fudge. Disappointed to say the least. It kept me awake last night trying to decide if I should make more. Alas, I have decided that “no more” making fudge for this year. This batch of fudge is more marshmallow than chocolate which is not bad. I am going to bake another batch of sugar cookies, which will be around another 100 or so today. This week in the evenings I am going to bake double batches only of the chocolate chip and my newly arrived at recipe of “raisin gingerbread cookies.” Which were a big hit. It is always funny how each and every time you make something even after making it for say 40 years it can turn out just a bit different. But of course, if someone adds more marshmallows, what can you expect, lol. Oh well. I am most sad about this because I made up treat boxes for my friend “Amber” and she loves fudge. Okay enough woe is me about the fudge. So this morning Amber is dropping off my jewelry order from the mega party last weekend and I will give her some treats followed by my daughter coming by with a new television for me and Alvin, most of the groceries for Christmas and some of the pet gifts that she picked up for me. Okay back to the television as I know you are thinking “new television set.” Well it is not new as is new from the manufacturer but it is new to me. My kids got a new t.v. and are giving me their old one which is not really old and get this is “58 inches” which compared to my 42 or 45 inch (cannot remember exact size) television will nicely fill the wall. So excited. Bonus Christmas present as far as I am concerned. So now I have three televisions. Where to put it? I have one in the family room and then where to put this one. Maybe we can find someone who needs a television. We are planning to have a pancake breakfast later this morning. Busy, busy. Later on this afternoon I will be baking the Sugar Cookies followed by wrapping Christmas presents. Other than delivering gifts to some friends of both the two and four-legged persuasion we will be DONE. Yes, done. Completed. Finished.

Yesterday afternoon after the fudge and macaroon baking/making – Alvin’s best friend Teddy, his little sister and his Mom stopped by for a visit. We masked of course and social distanced. They brought us, well me actually a poinsettia plant so nice and red and some caramel popcorn twists. Their gift to Alvin is coming later. Much better for the pups to exchange gifts together. I am feeling very spoiled this year. Actually every year I am spoiled and am very blessed. So love when the pups come to visit. Both Teddy and Kobi run and jump up to give me some love whenever they come or I go to their house. So happy to have had that visit because the extra visits end today with the new COVID19 restrictions.

Time to go and have a shower. I definitely need COFFEE this morning. Oh, looks like the sun is starting to rise.

I wish you an awesome Sunday. Perhaps you will be relaxing and watching a Christmas Movie or three OR reading a book or maybe you are baking some cookies. Just remember fudge is not something to defer from the original recipe.

Be kind, respectful and show compassion, this is more important now than ever before. All creatures big and small are important to this planet of ours.

Always, Carol & Alvin

Welcome December 2020

Good Morning ALL. Well my friends here we are at the end of another “work/school” week heading off into the weekend. It has been a week of many different feelings for so many folks. I would like to start by saying to all those family and friends that have lost a loved one, some two-leggeds and some four-leggeds, we keep you all in our thoughts and our hearts. Alvin and I send our love to you all. I know that it is never easy losing someone and we have all experienced loss.

For some reason it seems more difficult this year and maybe it is because we have endured loss of a totally different magnitude this year. Things we used to take for granted are different and some cases so hard for us. So many different levels of loss. For so many children instead of going to school and seeing their friends – they are learning online. They have not been able to visit grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins this year. For some folks like me, we are working from home. Others, those incredible ones working in grocery stores, retail outlets, fire and police, nurses and doctors and cleaning staff and the list is too long for me to relay risking their lives, just working and doing their jobs is a struggle, and then not seeing their families on a regular basis. Even going shopping is not that “fun” experience that it used to be. No more large gatherings. So many folks have lost their jobs this year and others saw their businesses close possibly forever. There is no doubt in my mind that most folks are looking to the NEW YEAR with hopes that things will be much better. I do as well.

I have a good weekend to look forward to and that is what we must do, look forward. Do what we can. Be safe and practice the protocols outlined by our Health Professionals. This weekend I am baking. I have a 10 kilogram bag of flour and one of sugar and lots of butter and chocolate and coconut and icing sugar. There is no doubt that I will be baking lots of goodies to give to my friends and family. It is what I love to do. Sometimes all it takes is a box of cookies to brighten one’s day. To bring a smile to someone’s face. To remind us all that we do think of each other. I am also one of the hosts of a MEGA PARTY for Fifth Avenue Collection or FAC starting tonight on FB live. So jewelry and sweets for me this weekend. My daughter is dropping by tomorrow with groceries and for a visit. We love to see her when we can.

Well it is almost time to head on downstairs. I booked Monday off as a vacation day so that I can wrap up baking and make some deliveries including to Alvin’s Vet Dr. Karen and staff.

Living our live with kindness, respectfulness and compassion is what we need to do now more than ever. Remember. We all need a little kindness ….. shine our lights on everyone we see.

Always, Carol & Alvin

Second Half of the NEW YEAR – last quarter.

Good Morning ALL. Wow, can you believe it seems like I said it was Friday only a day or so ago. I am happy it is Friday not just because it is the end to the work week and beginning of “home time” but because we are having company for the day. Alvin’s BF Teddy and his little sister Kobi are coming to spend the day with us, they will be arriving in less than one hour. Mom and Dad are going out to the farm for the day. We are happy to have extra cuteness in the house. I love how Teddy wants to sit on my lap even when I am working and how Kobi likes to get right up and put her face to mine and just stare into my eyes and then she will my nose. Perfect ending to a perfect week.

Alvin and I went for a nice “full” walk yesterday at lunchtime. We even had a short driveway visit with our friends down the street Susana and her little dog “Rio.” What a cool name, right? I love his name and his Momma’s. She was dropping him off to spend the afternoon with her parents as he was bored at home with her. How sweet. I get that. Another MAJOR reason that I am so over the top happy to be working from home, so that I can be here every day for Mr. Alvin. Now I will have to go to the office about once every month or so but him having to stay home alone one day out of 20 work days that is okay. I also am able to have my neighbour come and check on him which is great. The benefits of working from home besides wearing sweatpants. Which I have on today with a nice top. I honestly do not wear them everyday. In fact, yesterday I wore what I would have worn to the office. Most days I semi dress up – at least the top half and I guess half of the time the bottom as well. Nice to be home in case there is a delivery. In case someone needs us. I cannot imagine leaving the three pups here alone. But they were good and we have in the past. Life. You surely never know what is going to happen.

Well guess what, I finally got the craft project in the final stages. I have it designed if you will and now just have to finish putting it together. I don’t wish to give it away. It is a Christmas project after all. Wink, Wink. I like to have at least one major Christmas project each year. Well Mr. Alvin is sitting in the hallway he was looking and me and now he turned and has his back to me. I am assuming he wants me to go downstairs and is giving me the cold shoulder, if you will. What a guy. I understand as he likely has to go outside.

I hope that this day brings you joy, some giggles, maybe a bit of sweetness whether chocolate or a visit from family or friends via a video chat or phone call or even a sidewalk visit, social distancing, of course. Our weather here in Edmonton is good at this time so an outdoor visit wearing the appropriate outerwear is possible. Have a great day. Maybe you could do something nice for those older neighbors down the street. Maybe you could pick up some groceries, ring the doorbell of neighbors that you know are struggling at this time and leave the groceries on their step. (Keep an eye to ensure that they actually got the items you left). Do something nice. Perhaps you are able to adopt a dog or a cat. There is always something we can do to help. By helping others you are helping yourself. Now that the numbers are wilding high at this time – we truly have to think of all others as our actions have major consequences. Wear that mask. Keep social distancing. Do this so that we can heal this planet and save off this pandemic. Stay safe and be well.

Time to go and pick up Mr. Buddy’s little parcels outside in the backyard. Also put the coffee on to perk and get signed on for work before the babies arrive. Also my dear friend “V” has mailed another parcel to us from Saskatchewan. The Post Office is slow making deliveries these days and it will arrive today. Both Alvin and I are so excited. Another good thing for this Friday.

Happy Friday Everyone.

We will continue to live our lives with kindness and respect and compassion for all. Life is too short not to!!

Always, Carol & Alvin

Second Half of the NEW YEAR – last quarter.

Good Morning ALL, what a gorgeous sunrise this morning. My daughter sent me a photo of the sunrise from her home. Absolutely breathtaking. Another weekend on the books. I took a day of vacation so I am not working at the “office” or kitchen table today. Good thing as the table is filled with odds and ends of items that need to be placed or hung up. Yesterday was a busy day. Beautiful weatherwise as well. We had a great Sunday. I took down all of the Halloween decorations and slowly brought up and unpacked all of the Christmas decorations. That took some time. I got quite a bit of decorating done before my daughter arrived. She had to make a couple of stops for us at Costco and Dollar Store (poop bags for you know, who?). After she arrived we had coffee and I made her lunch. I have made this yummy dish and it was a hit with her as well. Very simple but delicious. The dish was oven roasted chickpeas with yummy spice blend and olive oil, I caramelized onions and wilted spinach in same pan. When all done …. chickpeas bottom of bowl, topped with onions and spinach and then topped with some of the salsa, my good friend gave me, homemade. The jar is almost empty and I am sad. So yummy and so delicious. Back to Christmas story. After lunch my daughter checked out a couple of things on my phone and computer for me and then we were at it. First off, we moved one of my chairs upstairs to my bedroom. The green one, for those of you who have been to my house. I miss having it downstairs but is nice to have it in the bedroom. Alvin really looked at it last night at bedtime. We had our favourite “THE GRINCH” movie playing in the background as we worked. It did not take long to assemble the tree and then put on the lights. I was prepared. I decided that I would decorate the tree afterwards as she had spent so much time picking up groceries and the poop bags for us. Also I wanted to get a walk in while the temperature was warm. So that is what we did. Once home from our walk with a minor detour at Teddy’s house. Alvin also wants to go in and see his buddy. This time I let him lead the way. They as always were happy to see us as were we. At home I fed the boy and then had some popcorn and a small bag of chips for supper. Yes, I know not really supper. I also had a banana. Just wasn’t hungry for much and I wanted to decorate the tree. Before the tree I wanted to finish submitting orders for the “TEA PARTY.” So that is what I did. After I was done, it was already almost 9:00 p.m. and I already see some things that I want to change regarding the decoration placement on the tree. Always the perfectionist. But it is up and I can play with it as I usually do. The fireplace mantle needs some adjusting of decorations. I have everything pretty much unpacked and needing a bit of tweaking and then that will be done. YAY. I also want to give Mr.Alvin a bath this afternoon, rake the leaves front and back, pick up trash on our block and some odds and ends.

I am hopeful that later I can figure out why I cannot upload the photos from my phone to the computer. Then I can upload and share. One thing at a time.

Time to get this show on the road. Already past 8:30 a.m. Time certainly does fly when you are having fun. Oh and I have a couple of loads of laundry to do as well. This time I am happy that I am on the late shift tomorrow as I start at 11:00 a.m. …….

Wishing you a great Monday.

Living our lives with kindness and respect.

I/We shall remain, As always, Carol & Alvin

Second Half of the NEW YEAR.

Good Morning,

Thursday August 6th, 2020.

Three days until my 63rd Birthday.

Yesterday I received a birthday card and letter from my Aunt & Uncle.

I did read the letter and was happy to hear their news and that they were okay.

 

Cannot believe how quickly the time passes.

Yesterday I wrapped and had ready to post the birthday present for my friend back in Regina.

I was going to “phone a friend” to see if someone could go and mail the parcel.

But then I thought …. why?

Instead I asked my neighbour if I could borrow her car and go mail the parcel.

We have a strip mall less than a five minute drive away complete with a drugstore and post office.

For the next bit before I actually went over to grab the keys, I felt a bit sick to my stomach.

At first I blamed it on the heat and then I realized that I was feeling a bit anxious.

This was my first time since March that I had been out in public, in a retail store where there could be many people.

I do not count the VET as they were only allowing one patient at a time.

Occasionally someone would come in for supplies.

The staff were always wiping down the doors, handles, windows, counters and debit machine.

Any place where a human could touch.

They always had sanitizer out on the counter so nothing new.

As I gathered my purse, shoes, sun clips, phone and checking to see if I had my debit card and of course, the main reason for going out, the parcel.

Picked up the keys and shortly thereafter I was on my way.

When I arrived at the parking lot I was amazed at how many cars.

Every person I noticed had a mask on.

There were the disposable light blue ones and many home sewn ones of every description.

After parking I grabbed my purse, the parcel and of course, the mask and locked the car.

As I walked to the drugstore, I slipped on the mask.

I have worn it before at the VET just because it is the right thing to do.

It felt hot on my face as I breathed in and out, momentarily fogging up my glasses.

Once instead I saw friendly faces hidden behind the masks.

I called out to the girls in the cosmetic area.

It is an odd feeling not seeing someone’s face when you are speaking to them.

I had a quick chat with the girls, telling them this was my first time out since working from home started in March.

First retail experience.

The young gal that I know the best “told me not to worry, you have your mask on.”

I felt kind of silly.

Then I was on my way.

First stop “Post Office.”

I noticed the arrows on the floor that no one was following.

There were several people in the store and everyone at that point had a mask on their face.

At the Post Office, I was happy to see only one person ahead of me.

The mask was hot on my face as I spoke to the Clerk in the Post Office asking this and him answering that.

I remembered to pick up stamps.

Once I had mailed the parcel, I decided to pick up a few items as I was at the store.

Walking down the aisles, I spotted the hair colours and walked over to them.

The first thing I did was to pick one up.

Then I placed it back like a hot potato.

Realizing what I had done.

What is the protocol for this?

Is there one?

Do you just look and only touch what you are purchasing?

After that I only looked and picked up what I intended to purchase.

 

At the checkout there was a woman with no mask.

No one knows why?

Perhaps for medical reasons, maybe she did not have one or perhaps she did not care.

When it was my turn at the cashier, I saw in front of me, this plastic wall, a shield protecting the cashiers, with an opening at the bottom to push through the products you were buying.

I must have looked stunned for a moment – I think you can tell that even if your mouth and most of your face is covered.

I had heard from others that most retail stores had this kind of setup but to see it in person, is quite another story.

Seemed like in a bank or in our old office before the renovations or in a New York taxi.

I had a quick chat with the cashier as she rung through my items.

I felt compelled to tell the cashier that this was my first public outing since March, my first retail experience.

Also, I commented on how hot the masks were and asked “Do you ever get used to wearing them?”

She said “No.”

This gave me a whole new appreciation for those folks who work out in the public.

Whether in health care or in retail or anywhere really.

 

Then I was done.

As soon as I was away from the building, I whipped off my mask.

Deep breath.

Into the car and back home.

A sense of accomplishment and relief.

 

I wondered how many folks were in a similar situation to mine?

I have been so blessed over the past few months to have friends and family that pick up my groceries and such.

After this, I am not quite certain if I am ready for grocery shopping or not.

If there were only a couple of people, maybe.

 

This morning we were up a bit earlier than the past few mornings and actually left the house at 7:00 for our walk.

I was surprised at just how many folks were out and about.

Riding bikes, walking with a friend or like me walking with their dog.

Another hot day so I must get going.

Time to have coffee and breakfast before getting some housework done.

After lunch it is just too hot to be doing much inside the house.

 

Living with respect and kindness.

I/We shall remain,

As Always, Carol & Alvin

 

 

 

It is a NEW YEAR.

Good Sunday morning.

Well shortly after I wrote my post yesterday the sun shone brightly.

It was a lovely day.

Lucky me, I went to shovel the driveway and there was no snow.

It had melted.

That was a first.

YAY.

Alvin and I enjoyed a beautiful walk in the afternoon after several loads of laundry.

Ended the day watching the newest STAR WARS movie “The Rise of Skywalker.”

Thoroughly enjoyed it.

 

This morning it has been lightly snowing since we were first up at 5:00 a.m.

No worries we did not stay up but I can tell by the amount of snow that it did not stop.

Actually it appears to be coming down with more intensity at this time.

Oh, last night we had a good show with the rabbits.

Alvin watched them intently gathering and having a snack out front.

At one point there were four of them.

Happy to report they are getting pretty brown.

We have so much snow which is not great for the wildlife.

 

I was thinking as I walked to the computer this morning.

List of things that change when staying at home / working from work during a PANDEMIC

1. Transportation to work, no bus tickets or payment for carpool.
2. No need to carry a purse, cause I do not use anything in my purse
3. More snacks
4. Changing up exercise routine
5. More television
6. Baking more
7. More snacks, did I say that already (very important)
8. More time spending with loved ones and in my case, my dog Alvin
9. No commute time to work (ten steps from bed to laptop in office in my case)
10. More time to clean the house
11. Less time actually spending cleaning the house
12. Less energy the longer at home
13. Overthinking everything
14. Trying new recipes
15. Waistline expanding
16. Need to start wearing button up pants instead of the stretchy ones
17. No gatherings
18. Quietness
19. Having television on during work hours for background noise
20. Routine, trying to keep work and home separate
21. Time spent looking out of the window
22. Did I say changing up exercise routine, gotta start that ….
23. Walking more (when weather allows)
24. Hoping for sunshine
25. Happy when receive texts from family and friends
26. Learning new things
27. No coworkers
28. If you have school age children at home, then you have now become a teacher
29. Trying to remember what day of the week it is
30. Resting, maybe too much (depends on who is in the house with you)
31. Excited to see the rabbits gathering out front to have a snack (no social distancing for them)
32. Happy to be alive and well
33. Wondering how long this will last
34. Nervous about going back to work
35. Staying away from news and social media for a time to be less stressed
36. SNACKS, so important for one or more in a household
37. Food has become so important
38. Realizing that one’s leaking tap is going to be this way for some time before can get fixed
39. Supposed to be spring now, why more snow?
40. Anyone at home that has folks bringing by groceries and supplies, we are grateful, realizing this will end someday and I will be shopping again
41. No going to the mall (I did not go much, anyway)
42. Thinking of how much the world has changed over the past month or so
43. Thinking of how much things will change going forward
44. Realizing that this would be retirement minus the working Monday to Friday
45. Getting stairs in several times per day (if you live in a multiple storey home)
46. Getting close to 50 (points to make)
47. Making a list that never gets completed
48. Day 3 cleaned the junk drawers
49. Day 6 cleaned the front closet
50. Day 18 cleaning the junk drawers again, and the rotation begins.

NOTE:  two things enjoying being with Alvin all day everyday and having my own perked coffee in the mornings.

 

Well time to hit the shower before having breakfast and enjoying some perked coffee.

 

Happy Sunday everyone.

I hope that you are smiling …..

 

Remembering we are living in kindness and with respect.

 

I/We, remain

Always, Carol & Alvin

 

P.S.  trying to decide if I should just cut my own hair.

That could have been point 51.

My hair is much longer than this photo.

Am thinking I could put the long clipper attachment on Alvin’s hair cutting machine and cut my hair.

What do you think?

If in household with children ….. cut their hair.

If in household with a dog that needs a haircut ….. already done.

It is a NEW YEAR.

Good Morning All,

Welcome to a snowy Saturday morning.

What happened to the beautiful sunrise?

What happened to the clear blue sky?

What happened to the feeling of spring?

Feels like winter will never end.

That feeling of dread.

Is that because we are all feeling that things will never end?

That our way of life has somewhat changed forever.

It is a possibility.

Some things will never be the same, that is likely.

Perhaps it is ?

You know how your thoughts become things?

Right.

Perhaps we all collectively need to change our “thoughts.”

We can do this.

 

Everyone close your eyes.

Visualize a bright sunny day.

The air is warm.

You are out walking in your sandals or running shoes.

You are wearing a light sweater and comfortable pants maybe even shorts.

The slightest whisper of a breeze lands on your cheeks providing a cooling effect.

You have your sunglasses on because it is nice and bright.

As you become closer to the entrance to the park, the fragrance of wild roses overtakes your senses.

You just have to stop and take in that wonderful aroma as it tingles every part of your nose.

The shade of green that colours the grass makes you feel happy.

As you walk you have this feeling that life is great.

You just want to dance.

You are feeling joyful and safe and filled with gratitude.

Your little dog walks ahead of you at the full length of the leash.

He is loving life as he sniffs about.

Life is perfect.

You are feeling glorious.

This is the perfect day.

 

This is the perfect day.

 

Wishing you the most perfect day.

We can do this.

We have got this.

We can change this ……

We are the world…..

 

Happy Saturday.

 

Time to get dressed, changed bedding, gather the laundry, have breakfast, perhaps do some shovelling (forgot about the driveway during the last snowfall, argh).

There are things to do.

One of the television stations (old school) is playing some of the JAMES BOND movies today.

The ones with Daniel Craig.

At least two of them for sure.

Wishing you a grand day.

Be safe and in good health.

Remember to eat some oranges and broccoli.

Go for a walk if you are able OR do some stretches.

 

I/We are with you,

In kindness and with respect,

Always, Carol & Alvin

 

P.S.  answering the after hour calls last night from 4-7 p.m. went went.  I was answering with a couple of lads from the office and we made a great team.

A friend brought me groceries yesterday.

Life is good.

Forgot story from last night.

Two lads walking down the sidewalk across the street from my house.

Dressed in onesies ….. full length ….. like baby sleepers.

One was leopard print and the other a bright green.

Not sure where they were going or what they were thinking.

It definitely make me smile.

AND

There was a bunny in the yard across the street from us.

Alvin was situated in his chair looking out the window at the bunny.

A German Shepherd and his female pack leader came walking around the corner.

The dog got wind of the bunny.

Hilarity ensued.

The gal was pulled by this huge dog over a snowbank and onto the street.

She was holding on for dear life.

The bunny of course, gone.

Once they were out of site.

The bunny was back.

Bunny came across the street and was eating when my neighbour who feeds the bunnies.

Came out and started to put out some food for them.

The bunny left to the safety of across the street.

As soon as she was gone into her house.

Bunny was back.

Alvin enjoyed the show.

The photos were all taken from behind the blinds.

 

 

Happy Days.

 

 

 

It is a NEW YEAR.

Good Morning and Welcome to the last day of February 2020.

the 29th …. the extra day once every four years.

The sky is overcast so I hope that doesn’t mean the white stuff will be falling from the sky later.

Yesterday was incredibly warm, think in the +6 degree fahrenheit range.

So of course some of the snow melted from the backyard, front yard and from neighbours and has pooled in front of my house.

Well actually part of mine and Humphrey’s house.

It is a mess of ice and water.

I see some ice picking in my future today.

Last night after work I went for groceries.

It was ugly getting out and then parked back out front.

I wished that the City would have had the big grader come down and scrape the street.

Instead we had a mini cat come down and plough.

Helped some but not enough.

Last night before groceries, Alvin and I attempted to go for a walk but after getting splashed by cars/trucks driving by …

Because of course, no one wants to slow down for those of us on the sidewalks.

I had bumped into a neighbour who was walking with her puppy and she was frustrated as well.

We were chatting on the sidewalk in front of her house when two trucks went by and splash us.

When we raised our arms in protest, they looked stunned.

Then bless their hearts a couple of vehicles went by and crawled along to ensure we did not get wet.

I honestly do not believe that people plan or intentionally want to splash water and mud on anyone.

But into their own little worlds and not paying attention.

Anyway.

It was nice to get out and have some fresh air.

It was nice to go shopping as well.

Something not at home and not at work.

 

Tonight I am hosting a 5th Avenue Jewelry party.

So after this I am going to get the laundry going, make breakfast, have coffee, clean and do some baking.

Excited to see some bling.

To try some pieces on.

Always a fun way to spend an evening.

There will be a few of us.

Alvin likes having company once he calms down.

 

Well as I might be deicing out front as much as possible.

I better get going.

Funny how the night before last there was only a small amount of ice out front.

Warm temperatures are appreciated but then it takes time and effort to keep the ice away.

 

Yesterday was my second eldest nephew’s birthday.

I forgot until almost the end of the day.

Bad Auntie.

I apologize to him.

Happy Birthday Buddy to one of the best guys I know.

He is hard working, a good father and husband.

An all around good one.

We are grateful to have him in the family.

 

So on this overcast gray kind of day.

I wish that you treat yourself with kindness and respect and some quiet time.

Treating others with kindness and respect is a given.

 

Happy Saturday.

Enjoy the last day of February 2020.

 

Always, Carol & Alvin

 

It is a NEW YEAR.

Well good morning and welcome to a SNOW GLOBE.

I decided last week to take today off as a vacation day as my carpool had booked today off.

So I am at home.

We were up earlier and then went back to sleep for a bit.

It has been snowing since about 6:00 a.m.

I do love the snow.

It is hypnotizing as it falls to the ground.

Yes it is.

I see lots of shovelling in my future.

 

The plan for today was to go to the grocery store and then work on the photos.

So now with all of the snow I am a little concerned about walking to the store.

I had planned to catch a taxi home so it will be just getting there.

Before all of this snow there was a considerable amount of ice in spots.

Now with the snow covering …. makes it not so easy to walk.

So now I am thinking that I will wait until after lunch and by then there should be enough snow to make it more safe to walk.

OR not.

I will go and shovel later, not much point at the moment.

Funny how Mother Nature can change your plans just like that.

Hopefully this will not last, the snow that is.

 

Alvin is laying on his blue blanket beside me.

I bet he is wondering what is the Momma doing at home?

 

How are you doing this day?

Are you at work?

At home?

At school?

on Vacation?

I want to wish you the best day.

Whether you are working, relaxing or studying.

Just enjoy.

 

Well time to go and have that cup of coffee.

Coffee in the morning except on the weekends.

As always I am working on drinking more water.

To keep well hydrated.

 

Happy Tuesday.

 

Filled with Kindness and Respect, Always.

Carol & Alvin

 

 

It is a NEW YEAR.

Good Morning and we awoke to much warmer temperatures.

I went outside with Alvin and I did not lose my breath.

I am, we are so grateful for this change.

 

Yesterday was both a day of incredible highs and incredible lows.

We woke up to the day being Alvin’s 11th Birthday.

Thank you to all of our Facebook friends for their birthday wishes for Alvin.

A short walk in the afternoon as it was still too cold for a long one.

We relaxed and enjoyed the day.

Later in the afternoon I waited for Teddy and his Mom to arrive.

Teddy to stay with Alvin for a visit on his birthday and me to go with his Mom for groceries.

Just a few minutes before she arrived; there was a knock at the door.

I opened the door to see our friend “A” from down the street and her Mom.

There was something about her demeanor and the fact that Abi (Alvin’s longtime girlfriend) was not with her.

I knew in my heart that something terrible, horrible had happened.

We stepped into the house and they told me that Abi had passed a few days ago.

It was sudden and so unexpected.

She was 11.5 years old.

I, We loved her so much.

She was the cutest beagle on the planet.

Everytime we were out for a walk and she spotted us/me, she would pull on her leash and cry out to come see me/us.

I always received kisses.

Sometimes I would be on my way home from work and she would spot me and come running with her Mom is tow.

Alvin and Abi would roll about on the lawn obviously to those around them.

They hit it off right from the start.

Oh my gosh how we loved her …. hard to say loved …. we love her.

I cannot locate a photo of her at the moment.

These flowers are for her.

 

Fly with the angels, Abi.

Many kisses to you our darling friend.

We miss you today, tomorrow and always.

 

Always, Carol & Alvin