The New YEAR 2022

Good Morning ALL! I hope this finds you feeling wonderful. Tuesday, February 15, 2022. Mid February already. Did you have a good Valentine’s Day? Alvin and I had a good day. There were no roses or pretty smelly flowers or boxes of chocolates or a new sweater or a pair of diamond earrings but there was a homemade chocolate pudding from scratch and a big pot of chili made by yours truly. With any lucky I will be able to share some photos. With any luck.

A few weeks ago this massive machine and another one came down our street. This is what they left. Blocking the storm drain which my neighbours and I so valiantly tried to keep clear.

Also some beautiful sunrises.

Sunrise

Well it would appear that I am unable to download the most recent photos from my phone. Not sure why. But I will get them posted over the next day or so. The chocolate pudding was divine. The chili well I just threw it together with the items that I had in my pantry and fridge. So will find out tonight.

Time to get to work. I can see a crack in the morning clouds where there is light. YAY. So pretty. I love the morning sky. Every morning it is different.

Have a wonderful day.

Continuing to live this life with kindness, respect, compassion, patience, love, laughter, understanding, gratitude, focus and possibilities.

Always, Carol & Alvin

P.S. Alvin and I had some snuggles for Valentine’s.

The New YEAR 2022

Good Morning ALL! How are you this morning? Alvin and I are well. I kept hitting the snooze button this morning. No real reason – just because the sofa is so comfy, I did not feel like moving. Finally it is much later and I now have to move it, move it, move it! I will say this, each morning it is starting to get lighter earlier and I think most of us are most happy about that change. I am for sure.

Yesterday Alvin and I got out for a walk at lunchtime. It was not easy. Our sidewalk to the public sidewalk is good but we had to climb over a small bank of snow and ice to get to the street as with the constant melting and freezing as of the past few days – my once clear sidewalk is now the DANGER ZONE! We got to the street which is filled with water and dirty snow but we stayed on the street always keeping an eye out for cars each way. We crossed the street by the mailboxes and then carefully crossed the back lane approach and to the safety of my friend’s portion of the public sidewalk that surrounds their property (they keep it clear and they are in their 70’s). They face south so that helps. We walked around the crescent with the mound of snow for about 12 minutes before heading back home. Total time outside 25 minutes. Not the most ideal exercise but it was more about the fresh air and it was so lovely outside. We just had to go out. Once home, I did some shovelling on the deck. I think by this weekend I should be able to clear the snow on our grassy area in the backyard. The snow bank has melted from about 5 feet to about 2.5 so I can handle that and by Saturday it should be 1 foot or so. Fingers crossed.

I had planned for us to walk after work but the wind got up and with the traffic and the fact that we would have had to walk about the street for almost a block – not ideal. So I went out and chipped away at some of the ice out front with my neighbours (from other half of the duplex). We had a little visit which was nice. Alvin had to watch from the living room window. I feel so bad for him. He loves it outside so much. I think that maybe when we cannot walk and it is nice outside – we will sit on the front porch and also hang out on the deck. At least we will get that fresh air.

Oh my goodness, getting light. Not much longer and the sun will be coming up. I love our sunrises. I suppose every sunrise is beautiful – how can it not be? I feel as long as we can see them, we are lucky and I for one, am most happy.

Well time to get to work. I know, have to get my fanny farkle up from the sofa earlier tomorrow. Perhaps I will have some words of wisdom or a cute story to share instead of babbling about the snow and ice. But that is my reality / my world at this time. What is yours? We all have a story to tell. I was thinking at 4:00 this morning when Mr. Alvin was outside – of how lucky I am – to have had Alvin in my life – to have share his life – so grateful.

Have a wonderful Tuesday. It is Tuesday right? LOL.

Continuing to live this life with kindness, respect, compassion, patience, love, laughter, understanding, gratitude, focus and possibilities.

Always, Carol & Alvin

2021

Good Morning All. How are you this bright sunny Thursday morning? Alvin and I are doing great. We went upstairs to prepare for bed last night at just a few minutes after 9:00 p.m. Now of course we were not sleeping right away as someone has to change into her pj’s, brush teeth both of us, wash face and moisturize and then I read for a bit but safe to say lights out before 10:00 p.m. – the boy slept until 4:18 a.m. this morning. Cause for celebration in this house. I happily went downstairs with Alvin and firstly gave him his glucosamine chew followed by breakfast and then he went outside. A few minutes later he was back in the house and we were curled up on the sofa. The next thing I knew it the alarm was going off on my phone and it was 6:45 a.m. There are no words and I feel fantastic. Like I actually got a good night’s sleep. Seems like forever since that has happened but so grateful that it finally occurred. Alvin is waiting patiently at the doorway to the office for me to finish so he can go downstairs. Today is payday so bills have been paid. Money seems to evaporate. But that is not the word that I want to dwell on. I am grateful to have more than enough money in my bank account for all of the things that we need and some of the things that I want. I am far from greedy. If our needs are met and some of the “wants” then I am feeling deeply in gratitude.

I noticed as I looked out of the bedroom window a few minutes ago that there is absolutely no snow on the north side of the street which is facing south. Our neighbours across the street get the warm sun which quickly melts the snow. The sidewalks are bare and dry. In fact even the grass areas are bare showing the remnants of the fall, leaves that were not raked. On our side of the street which is shrouded in shadows most of the time still is covered in snow and ice. I have been shovelling along with the neighbours but some of the ice that is caused from runoff from our backyards is not as easily disposed. Anyway quite the contrast. Out of the office window the trees are still basking in the bright morning sun and look beautiful against the blue backdrop. Has spring arrived?

Well I am one happy Momma this morning. Also note: that I booked a day of vacation tomorrow. Friday is my daughter’s birthday and Alvin goes to our Vet to have the stitches removed. I noticed that the incision has healed nicely. My daughter is coming to drive us and I am grateful for her kindness. Tomorrow I am going to pick up the ingredients needed to make her a “fruit pizza” for her birthday. She decided she wanted the FP instead of a regular cake. Nice to change things up.

I am grateful for this moment and for all the ones ahead on this day and always. I am basking in gratitude for the blessing of Alvin sleeping and healing and recovering. He is one strong old guy. We are waiting for the results from the tests that were taken at the time of his surgery but I know in my heart of hearts that he is going to be fine. He has many good healthy years ahead.

Time to plug in the coffee and get to work. I am training which has been both interesting and actually fun considering we are doing virtually. Who knew that I could actually train someone without them being in person. It actually is quite easy and we are enjoying the process.

Remembering to live each moment of each day in kindness, with respect, compassion and patience.

Always, Carol & Alvin

2021

Good Morning ALL. How are you this morning? It is getting more bright with every passing morning. The sky looks so pretty with the pale hues of oranges, pinks and yellows as they blend into the soft blue of the morning sky. I love sunrises. They are the beginning and that suits me fine. The beginning of something is always better than the end. Our temperatures are warming and that is a blessing for sure. I have a cousin that is married to an American girl, and they live in Houston, Texas where they have now snow and freezing temperatures. They are not equipped for snow and ice. My cousin reported that they had no power. They do have a fireplace which is good but eventually had to go to another relatives. The walk to the vet was okay, a bit cold. I had put on his big winter coat and he just stood and shook. I helped him down the steps to the sidewalk and he reluctantly walked a bit before I made an executive decision knowing that the clock was counting down to our appointment time. Back into the house and off with the winter coat and on with his sweater. The sweater is warm but the coat obviously warmer but I did not have a choice. He definitely was happier in his sweater. He sniffed every “spot” along the way and I thought that we would never get there. But we did and managed to arrive right on time. So that was good.

Well I was up later than usual and the clock once again is ticking down to a start time and that being work. Mornings seem to fly by for some reason. I guess most days do.

I hope that you are doing well.

Oh the sky just turned more pink and it is so beautiful.

Alvin wants to go downstairs and is giving me that look. Patience is not one of his virtues or mine, I guess, if I am being truthful. But as I mention every post, I am working on it.

From our house to yours …. Happy Wednesday.

Time to get that coffee perking. I definitely need some caffeine this morning.

Remembering to live with kindness, respect, compassion and patience.

Always, Carol & Alvin

Thought for the day ….

Good Morning and Welcome to Sunday the 22nd day of April, 2018.

The sun is shining but there are some clouds scattered throughout the sky.

There is a strong wind blowing.

Woke up with a headache this morning.

Had been invited to one of my friend’s homes for morning coffee and visit but decided to cancel this time.

Alvin needs a hair cut and bath.

That needs to be done.

No excuses there.

 

We have had a good weekend.

Laundry and some cleaning was accomplished.

We enjoyed our walks.

So nice to have most of the sidewalks dry now.

Finally.

 

Was happy that yesterday was not an all day rain fest.

In fact it did not start raining until well into the afternoon.

Alvin and I beat the rain and had a lovely walk.

We saw one of our neighbours who lives on the opposite side of the street.

He was raking his lawn.

We still have snow and ice on ours.

Funny how that is.

 

Well time to get going.

I can hear a big dog barking to the south of us.

Oh, how I wish that people would not leave their dogs outside for long periods of time.

 

Have an awesome Sunday.

 

 

Special Hello to: my friends and family.

Always, Carol & Alvin

Thought for the day …..

Good Morning and Welcome to Tuesday the 10th day of April, 2018.

Spring is slowly making its’ way.

The streets and most sidewalks are pretty much clear of snow and ice.

We just have to be patient.

I know it is hard sometimes.

Last night after work, Alvin and I enjoyed an extra long wonderful walk.

The breeze felt warm making the walk most enjoyable.

Alvin a bit out of character lately.

Has not been in a rush to eat his supper.

Mmmm.

Will be keeping an eye on him.

 

I was thinking this morning as I was getting ready for work.

Wondering if the 7+ Billion humans on this planet – are happy with their lives.

Of that the adult population, are we/they/I, passionate about whatever work they are doing?

I would like to like we are but I am hinging on doubtful.

Do you bounce out of bed most mornings?

Happy to leave the house?

Smiling as you enter your workplace?

Acknowledge your co-workers with a “cheerful Good Morning?”

Something to think about.

What would your perfect life involve?

Would you like to have your mortgage paid in full?

Perhaps you would like a house and the mortgage would not matter so much.

Would you like to live a simple life?

Just no mortgage, enough to life comfortably and be at home with your dog.

Comfortably, of course means something different to each and every one of us.

 

Well I guess this leaves some things for us all to ponder.

I have to go and catch the bus for work.

Have an awesome day.

 

Special Hello to: You All …..

Always, Carol & Alvin

Thought for the day ….

Good Morning and Welcome to Thursday the 5th day of April, 2018.

YAY, today is Thursday.

We want to be excited for each day.

Always a good thing when you wake up in the morning.

Mr. Alvin is going for a sleepover to this sister’s house tonight.

I have a meeting right after work.

I have not mentioned it to him as I do not want to create anxiety for him.

He loves to see them but the car ride bothers him.

We did find out that he could have a small bit of GRAVOL to calm him.

 

Last night right after work we walked over to Alvin’s Doctor.

The final follow-up and cleaning of his ears.

Happy to report that they are all better.

No infection.

Thankfully all done.

 

I was shocked but not surprised by the amount of garbage on the streets and in the grass by the sidewalk.

GLASS.

Does not one SEE this?

I do not understand.

I can only imagine what their homes look like if they do not take the time to pick up the garbage.

It does not matter if you tossed the garbage we all need to be responsible.

We are always picking up trash.

Although Alvin does not actually pick up things, he does accompany me as we pick up items while we are out for a stroll.

In fact, I am going to start carrying my disposable gloves with me.

Soon when the snow and ice melts I can go and finish picking up those items that line the walkways and sidewalks in my neighbourhood.

It breaks my heart that people do not have any consideration.

 

Well almost time to go to work.

Carpooling is great.

Nice change.

 

Special Hello to: all those folks who take the time to keep their neighbourhoods free from trash.

Always, Carol & Alvin

 

Thought for the day …..

Good Morning and Welcome to Sunday the 1st day of April, 2018.

WOW, it is officially April.

April 1st, 2018.

The sun is shining and the sky is a pale blue.

Still signs of winter with snow still covering rooftops and the ground.

Temperature feels colder than usual.

I am longing for the warmth of summer days and nights.

This has been a long winter.

Too much snow and ice.

We are ready for flip flop weather although yesterday when I was out for a walk with Alvin and Teddy, I saw …..

a young woman, a teenager most likely, wearing a zip up sweater and flip flops.

I could hardly believe my eyes.

Both Alvin and Teddy had on their winter jackets as did I along with my winter boots, scarf and mitts.

The sidewalks were not clear of ice and snow as she walked along in her flip flops.

This action brought a smile to my face and laughter to my heart.

WOW, it was about minus 15 degrees celsius and she had on a hooded sweater and flip flops.

The wind was COLD.

No mitts, no scarf and flip flops.

Yup, flip flops.

I wanted so desperately to yell out from across the street “to ask why?”

But I restrained myself.

Alvin was enjoying the walk and wanted to keep going however Teddy was not feeling it.

We were almost at the park when he stopped suddenly – planting his feet on the sidewalk.

Not moving forward.

It was at that point that I figured we might just as well go back home.

So I called out to Alvin that we were going home.

He turned around and looked at me as if to say “really?”

Back home we went.

It was funny anyway because Alvin was pulling on his leash going ahead and Teddy was lagging behind me almost tripping me with his leash.

At the end of it – chalked it up to a funny story and fresh air.

When back home I began to prepare supper for our company.

I made a huge pot of “Easter Chili” and for dessert “Apple-Berry Crisp.”

The boys stood beside me waiting for the possibility of a piece of apple to fall onto the floor.

I gave them each some small pieces.

Everyone happy.

My daughter and son-in-law arrived with their pups in tow.

They left Aspen and Milo with us as they had to make a quick trip to COSTCO.

Well me and four pups.

Milo and Teddy did not take to one another right away.

There was lots of growling and barking while they got to know each other.

At one point Aspen growled at Teddy as she was likely thought that he was hurting Milo.

It all worked out.

The kids were not gone long before arriving to better change the ratio of pups to humans.

Teddy reminds us all of our beloved Elton.

A few minutes later my friend arrived to take Teddy home.

She stayed for a little visit.

Afterward we enjoyed our Easter Chili and Apple-Berry Crisp.

We also had some homemade buns that my friend “V” had sent to me from Saskatchewan.

Supper was a hit.

After supper was over and cleaned up – we played a couple of games before my family left for home.

A great day.

 

Happy Easter Everyone.

Have a wonderful day.

 

Special Hello to my family and friends.

Always, Carol & Alvin

Thought for the day…..

Well Hello and although this is later in the day ….. Happy Thursday the 28th day of March, 2013.

Did you have a great day?

I had the best day in a long time.

I had the absolute pleasure of spending it with my wonderful daughter, Alvin, Elton and Miss Penny.

We made so much jewellery.

In between the jewellery – I manager to do several loads of laundry, dig ice and make a canal to the storm drain, make us lunch and a couple of other small tasks.

We made “32” rings …… some for us and some to sell.

We also made necklaces and earrings … I am so excited for you all to see them.

Please visit our store located on Storenvy “Dear Stella Jewellery” ….. I am so proud of us.

This is the address:  dearstellajewellery.storenvy.com

So what a way to spend a Thursday …. this starts my holiday weekend.

The sun is shining, the ice and snow are melting and smiles are in the air ……

I am so happy that spring is here.

Listening to Mr. Neil Diamond ….. my life is great.

I am so blessed …… thank you Universe for shining down upon me and Alvin.

We are happy ….. happy ….. I could dance …. salsa or something modern…… yes ……

Just me and Neil ….. oh, sorry Alvin ….. he is lying on the hallway floor ….

I am groovin’ to the music …. thank you ….. my life is truly wonderful.

I wish you could feel how I feel right at this very moment…..

Thank you.

Easter Basket ….. one of my Wednesday night crafts….

More Easter Crafts

And more Happy Easter crafts…. amazing what you can do with some construction paper and scissors …..

Happy Easter …..

Well time to go and have supper …..

Thank you Mr. Neil Diamond for helping to make this an extra special time …..

Thank you my wonderful daughter and grand-puppies for blessing me with your presence.

Life rocks …. am I happy …… YEAH !!!

Have a great night everyone……

My first BF ….. SISTERS
Happy Easter Sista …..

Always, Carol and Alvin ….