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. A bit colder outside this morning. Well I had a good day downtown at the office. My daughter picked me up in the morning. Alvin was not really sure what was going on as I have only been away for the entire day twice since March 19, 2020. Can you imagine? I have been away to the office three times since March 19, 2020 but one was for a few hours to attend a meeting. My neighbour Sonja came over and checked on him a couple of times letting him outside and giving him one of his cookie/biscuit treats. The parcel from Steeped Tea did not arrive and the status went to pending but finally this morning it is showing an arrival date of today. For some reason they pushed it to today. Likely got behind in deliveries, I get that. It was nice to see a few people. Three in fact. That was all of the people that I saw at the office. Everyone practicing the COVID 19 safety protocols. I am grateful. I was able to get everything done early and then had time to actually put the postage on all of the letters / packages I had stuffed. First time using that fancy new machine. It worked pretty slick. I was so happy that I could help out our Support Services team. They work so hard. My daughter picked me up about 3:50 p.m. and we headed to Shoppers before going home to Alvin. I had a couple of parcels, card to go overseas and other Christmas cards within Canada. So happy to get everything posted. The gal in the “Post Office” said that it was so busy earlier and she was working alone. Isn’t that always the way? Also, I remembered to pick up extra stamps just in case I forgot to send a card to someone. Amanda and I always have good conversations on the car rides. I mentioned to her that one of the Support Services team was curious if I was following politics. I asked him “do you mean the U.S. elections.” He said “Yes.” So we chattered about the results. He thinks that there is voter fraud and I was very surprised to see that he sided with Trump. Not necessary Trump himself, but the Republicans. Anyway, I shared my knowledge of the U.S. Elections and was shocked by my articulation of the process. I have done lots of reading and I actually know stuff. Everyone is entitled to their thoughts and opinions. Realizing that I don’t know as much about our own government, I have vowed to do some research. I used to know the details but over the years have kind of forgotten. Time to do some reading.

The Pampered Chef order arrived yesterday so that was good.

Well it is time to head back downstairs, put on the coffee, put on the poop and get to work. I had to hit the “snooze” button this morning.

Living with kindness and respect for all. “Even when people do not have the same beliefs and opinions as ourselves.” (most importantly then).

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

 

 

 

Thought for the day ….

Good Morning and Welcome to Tuesday the 14th day of August, 2018.

Well today is a very special day – today is the 13th birthday of my special great nephew “A.”

He has been my buddy since he was in his Momma’s tummy.

We have played together, cried together, laughed together, gone on adventures together.

Happy Birthday “A,” WISHING you a great day.

Sure is hard to believe.

 

Well the sky is an odd white blue colour.

Does not smell like smoke although my sense of smell is slightly off these days.

One ear was plugged but unplugged in the shower, thank goodness.

My carpool is not in today as her building is still not accessible (after the water main break back before my vacation started).

So I am catching the bus.

Running a little late now how did that happen.

 

We had a great day yesterday; me and Alvin.

Walked to the Vet in the morning to pick up more food for him and such.

Then I walked to our neighbourhood little mall, mailed a parcel to my friend back in Regina.

Her birthday is on Thursday.

Picked up some groceries and then home.

When I arrived at the Post Office which is located in Shoppers Drugmart the clerk informed me that their system had crashed and she had rebooted it.

Guess we are not the only ones.

She thought it would take about 15 minutes.

I walked around the store and saw one of the staff that I know so we had a chat while she unpacked some crates of product.

Then it was home and did some laundry, cleaning and later mowed the grass and went for a walk with Alvin.

We saw our friend “P” who has one of the most beautiful gardens, we stopped for a visit.

A good last day of vacation.

 

Well time to get this show on the road.

I hope that you have an awesome day.

My first day back to work after 1.5 weeks – seems strange.

My body just wanted to go back to bed.

Ah, poor body.

Spoiled.

 

Special Hello to: the birthday boy.

Always, Carol & Alvin

Thought for the day …..

Good Morning and Welcome to Wednesday the 3rd day of January, 2018.

New Year is just rolling along.

First day back to work yesterday with unbelievably warm day.

What a relief from the double digit minus temperatures.

Very grateful for this beautiful weather.

Alvin and I enjoyed our first walk in over a week and about 1/2 through he wanted to go home but I coaxed him to stay.

Needless to say he loved it.

Such a warm, perfect evening.

 

I was thrilled but completely surprised by the TODAY show announcement that HODA KOTB is the new morning co-anchor with SAVANNAH GUTHRIE.

I love HODA, she has the biggest smile and warmest heart.

We share a birthday as well.

Perfect addition to that part of the morning show and I was so relieved to hear that she was not giving up her  spot with KATHIE LEE GIFFORD in the “4th” hour.

Great decision, well done TODAY show.

 

Well back to work and I can only imagine how much mail will be delivered to us today after being closed for over a week.

Thankfully the POST OFFICE was closed during part of that time.

 

I guess it is almost time to hit the road for work.

That good old bus ride.

Surprisingly, yesterday there was not a full bus to work.

I am thinking today may be another story.

 

I hope that you have a great day.

Wishing you warm temperatures and sunny skies.

I hope that you are surrounded by kindness and respect.

Have an awesome Wednesday.

 

Special Hello to:  our neighbours to the south ….. stay warm and safe with all of the cold weather.

Always, Carol & Alvin

Thought for the day …..

Good Morning and Welcome to Friday the 5th day of August, 2016.

Oh my goodness there is such an amazing cool breeze filling the house at this moment.

I have all of the windows open to drink in this beautiful air.

It touches my arm and feels so good.

Comfortable for the boy as well.

We should have been up and gone for an early morning stroll as I had planned to do on my vacation days but alas the sofa called with tidbits of dreams that filled my mind.

Oh well, we shall walk later.

Last night later in the evening just as the last bit of sunlight filled the sky, Alvin and I sat outside on the patio sofa and enjoyed the stillness of the night.

It was so wonderful.

He loves to sit there with me any chance he has.

Yesterday was an amazing day every minute.

Started out with Elton and Casey dropping by to spend the day with me and Alvin.

We had a quiet early morning just visiting and going out into the backyard.

Enjoying each other’s company.

I guess it was just before ten in the morning when I head out to mail a couple of packages and to pick up some items to make a pot of chilli.

I was gone less than one hour.

When I was within ear shot of the house; I could see a big multi-coloured cat just leaving our yard and then I heard them.

All three were barking …. all three different voices….. all so cute.

They were happy to see me as I was happy to see them.

We spent the rest of the day doing bits of this and that.

A huge parcel arrived for me from my friend “V” back in Regina.

Some items were the tupperware that I had ordered when she was here to visit (she sells tupperware) and the rest of delectable goodies for my upcoming birthday.

There was an apron to match the one she wore when she cooked the best homemade soup on the planet and a beautiful mug in matching pinks and greens – birds of a feather – flock together.

There was a brownie peanut butter cup birthday cake and three kinds of cookies and I will mention here that two of the cookies were tucked into two of the pieces of tupperware and it was not until I opened them to wash them that I noticed the cookies.  What a delightful surprise.

She gave me a tupperware insulated lunch bag that is of nautical design and so nice.  There were two additional pieces of tupperware to boot and the winning $60 million lotto ticket for tonight’s draw.

What an awesome person she is, so thoughtful and kind and oh so generous.

This has been the week of wonderful parcels arriving at my house …..

In the afternoon my friend “P” stopped by to drop off some apples from her tree and was surprised to see me at home.

I haven’t seen here since I have been on vacation.

She was on her way to get her hair cut and I invited her to come for tea on her way home which she did.

We had such an awesome visit.

She loves puppies as well and they all got many a pat while she was visiting.

Mr. Alvin was just a tad bit jealous of Casey, I will say.

I made the chilli for supper and have enough leftover for the next million years.

I froze most of it …..

The kids picked up the puppies after work and after all their errands.

We had an awesome day.

Later just before our walk we delivered a Steeped Tea Catalogue to one of my neighbours and friends and of course had a wee visit.

Then we walked.

Then after I put the chilli in the fridge and freezer Alvin and I retired to the deck where we enjoyed the late night air and stillness of it all.

What a glorious day …..

I am so grateful to have such amazing family and friends.

I am so touched by the generosity and as I said most grateful.

Well time to get this late morning on the road.

My head was filled with all sorts of odd dreams this morning so I just let them happen.

Sometimes you just have to do that ….. even though there are things I should/could be doing.

After all is that not what vacation is for ???? to dream???

Happy Friday ALL.

Special Hello to: my friend “V” thank you, thank you, thank you.  You should have a parcel delivered today.  I have to check the tracking number.

Always, Carol and Alvin

Thought for the day …..

Good Morning and Welcome to Thursday the 28th day of April, 2016.

Another month in April almost complete …. hard to believe.

 

Yesterday was a stellar day in our household.

Our beloved Elton continues to beat the odds and is making a full and “speedy” recovery from his surgery on Tuesday.

The kids went for a visit yesterday and he was so excited to see them he just stood and wagged his tail and then began to eat his food.

The staff said he wouldn’t eat before they arrived.

He continues to astonish the Doctors and all of us.

We are so grateful that he remains with his family that treasure the little guy more than words can say.

 

The other was just as much a surprise as Elton’s amazing recovery was this.

On our way home from our walk we stopped by the mail box to retrieve the mail.

Usually flyers and junk mail.

There was an medium sized white envelope that was addressed to me by way of a typed label.

There was no return address.

There was no means of identifying by the post mark.

When I got home I quickly opened it.

Inside the envelope something was neatly wrapped in white paper, carefully the corners were pressed.

Opening that I found a small yellowish enveloped so sealed that I had to use my letter opener to get into it.

Inside I found a small card decorated with three little flowers.

I opened the card to find a $50.00 Save-On Grocery Card (the store is walking distance from my house).

The card read:   JUST BECAUSE and beside it a “Happy Face.”

No signature …. no means of discovering who this most generous person is ….

I am running out of time here as I have to go to work.

But I must tell you the timing is perfection as between Alvin’s $1200 Dental Bill and the $800 Unexpected Energy Bill, it has left me “temporary” in a bind.

Getting there and the gift card was so thoughtful.

Sometimes you never know what you will find in the mailbox.

Maybe it was not a cheque but it was so much more.

Someone took the time and got me something I could use.

So very grateful.

 

We also stopped by and saw one of our neighbour’s who had recently fell and broke her hip and is now home recovering.

Another speedster in the healing department.

She is in such good health she will be up and doing her gardening soon.

Thank you.

 

Yesterday was a blessed day all way round.

 

Special Hello to: all those folks who think there is no one watching over them ….. there surely is ……

Always, Carol and Alvin