Last Half 2022 – October

Good Morning ALL! We are off to a “start” this morning. Alvin had us both up extra early as I believe that he has an ear infection. So no sleep. I am very tired at this moment. I stayed home from work today so that I could take him to the vet. Hopefully they can squeeze us in so that I can get his ears checked and get some medicine. I have a headache and not sure if due to lack of sleep or no coffee as yet. I made a pot and am going to have a cup soon. I was dozing off and on while on the sofa for the last couple of hours. Fingers crossed all goes well.

It is interesting now that I have to call my carpool (as we were in the office today), the person looking after Alvin today, my Manager at work and email my Supervisor at work. I had to keep going over the list in my head so that I did not forget anyone.

Today is also the funeral services for the sister of one of my long time friends. Sending hugs with love to my friend and her family. Diana will be missed. We never know how long we have on this earth. So important to ensure that we do the best we can while we are here and Diana did just that despite her struggles with mental illness. She was living proof that you can do anything! I had not seen her for many years but have fond memories of Diana and will keep her in my thoughts and in my heart forever.

Rest in Peace Diana Rose, rest in peace.

Be well everyone.

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

Always, Carol & Alvin

Last Half 2022 – September

Good Morning ALL! How are you this morning? We are doing great. Last night we were in bed by 9:00 p.m. as I am working from the office today. About 11:50 p.m., Alvin wanted to go outside so downstairs we went. He had a pee and then we were back in the house where we laid on the sofa. Thank goodness for a comfortable spot. We were just settling in when I heard a noise coming from the front porch, as I was half asleep, I did not think too much of it. Maybe a cat. Then a little while later I heard my phone ping several times, notification of someone texting me. Did not think much of that either. Then off to la la land. Alvin wanted to get up a couple of times before the alarm went off but I managed to coax him to lay back down. We were up to stay up at 5:00 a.m., after I gave Alvin his food, I checked my phone to see a text from the neighbour in the other half of the duplex. She had texted me at 12:33 a.m., she had heard someone on our front porch but did not know if I had company that was just leaving so she did not go outside. Now that is so funny that Mr. Alvin did not bark or make any kind of movement toward the front door. Very strange. Whomever it was did not try the door handle or I would have heard so what were they doing on the porch? I did turn on the porch light once I had read her text to see if someone had walked off with one of my potted plants or the wreath from my door but they were all there. Kind of gave me the creeps. Definitely will ensure every night that I lock the front door. I do but there has been the odd time where I noticed it unlocked in the morning, especially when I had watered the front flowers in the evening. Anyway, that was my excitement. NOT.

I am starting to get a bit anxious about next week as that is the start of three days each week back to the office. I do have someone to watch over Alvin but it is not the same, it is not me. Although I am very grateful that I have such amazing friends and neighbours who are helping me out. Soon, I hope I will be retiring and then it won’t matter. Soon cannot come soon enough, lol.

This weekend we have to go over the schedule with my friend and neighbor who is helping with Alvin.

Well I am going to go downstairs and outside with the boy and ensure that the main floor is as cool as I can make it. I will close all of the blinds so that it keeps the coolness in as it is supposed to be another hot one today.

I hope that you have an amazing day. Sure cannot believe this weather but am grateful for it. Last year when we were out to see the kids for Thanksgiving it was nice out as well.

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

Always, Carol & Alvin.

Last Half 2022 – August

Good Morning ALL! What a beautiful morning. A bit of a cool breeze wafting in through the open office window. The sun is up. I think it will be a warm one. I heard a weird sound coming from the fireplace (gas) earlier – might have been a bird. Maybe was sitting on the chimney and the sound carried.

Yesterday we had two delightful walks, once before work in the morning and the other at 7:50 p.m. last night. One of my friends had popped by for a few minutes (dropping something off) and as she was leaving and we were chatting at the doorway, I realized how nice it was outside. Not too hot so I quickly got Mr. Alvin ready and we went for an evening stroll. For the second time in one day we went to our “happy place” which is my friend Pauline’s backyard. We did not go in but admired from afar.

OKAY, today is a special day. Today we celebrate two special friends birthdays. One friend I have known since high school and the other for about six years. I met Iris while walking with Alvin. Both incredible women. Happy 65th Birthday to my dear friend Carolyn. I had sent her a Birthday text a few minutes ago and as I was sending a birthday message to Iris, a phone call came in from Carolyn. OMG, so exciting. I am not sure why we do not call but we have been texting. I guess texting is the thing not that either of us “do the thing” per say. It was so good to hear her voice. She made my day, my month, my year. Sometimes we forget how great it is to hear someone’s actual voice. Happy Birthday Ladies. Wishing you both the best day and may the days to follow be filled with continued good health, much love and laughter and abundance. May we continue to stop the smell the roses.

This will be short as I am running late, go figure, lol. We have to get in a walk. Might be a bit shorter but we are going to walk.

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

Always, Carol & Alvin

PS: I forgot to tell Carolyn that I have been wearing the jade ring that she gave me since 1976. She brought it back from a trip she had taken. I am so blessed to have such amazing longtime friends.

The New YEAR 2022

Good Morning ALL! How are you this Sunday morning? Guess what here in Edmonton, well in my neighbourhood last night it did not freeze. Our temperatures remained over 0 therefore no frost on the windshields and most of all the water that is ice in front of my house, is still water. So all of my hard word yesterday remains. Yesterday afternoon after laundry was almost done, Alvin and I headed out for a walk. So many neighbours were out chipping away at the ice. It was like being on the red carpet and stopping to say hello to people on your way inside the theatre. The walk that in good times would take us about 6 minutes ended up being just over one hour. We had so many good conversations but sadly not from the sidewalks as we had to walk on the edge of the street where cars would park. Even that was icy so we were very careful. All the neighbours kept saying “be careful, it is icy” Isn’t that nice that everyone cares about us. I thought so. Quite often times, people do not know many if any people in their neighbourhoods, I can honestly say I know more people than I do not know. Thanks largely in part to Alvin and I walking for all these years. When I was “single” before Alvin joined my family I used to walk every day for a minimum of 2-5 miles and would meet people but then when I adopted Mr. Alvin in 2020, that changed. Our walks became much shorter and were concentrated in our neighbourhood and as we were slower and Mr. Alvin was/is so darn cute, we chatted more along the way. I met some of the most incredible people. People from all walks of life. We have the best neighbors and have made good friends with so many of them. Even though we did not get very far, we exercised our bodies a bit but most of all we exercised our hearts, minds and souls. That is just as important as exercising your body. So it was a great day. Later in the afternoon, I had an actual telephone conversation with one of my girl friends who lives a couple of minutes away. It was great. I have found sadly that I tend to “text” people more than call on the phone. Not something that I ever intended to do but just found that it happened. Likely because I like to keep in touch but I am not much for talking on the phone or at least not on a regular basis. That being said, I just had a 3.5 hour conversation with a dear friend on her birthday. She lives in Regina. Last night after fresh air and accomplishing the items on my to do list, we just watched movies. It was quiet and lovely.

This morning the sky is blue but not the sunny light blue and it is not filled with clouds either. Just that blue waiting for the sun to start shining kind of blue. I hope you understand my mish mash of an explanation. Thankfully it is warm outside. The temperatures are to remain warm for this week and we will definitely be happy about that.

Well time to get dressed (still in my pj’s) and head downstairs. I did bring up the towels that were in the dryer and clothing that was drying in the basement and put it all away before sitting down to do this post. I so enjoy on the weekends, just slowly starting. I guess at this point in my life, I have earned that right. Is that a right? Whatever it may be, I am enjoying it. I am so grateful to be here and now. I am grateful that both Alvin and I can run up and down the stairs (okay, maybe not run, as such). I am grateful for each and every day we have together.

I wish you an awesome Sunday. Today, I have to finish gathering up items to do my taxes. Sounds like fun, not really but needs to be done. We will try and get another walk in ……

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

Always, Carol & Alvin

The New YEAR 2022

Good Morning ALL! What a beautiful morning. Feels like a tropical heat wave. Almost time to bring out the sandals and light jacket, almost. Well something kind of unnerving but cool at the same time happened this morning, almost one hour ago now. I was on my way back upstairs to have a shower when I saw a dog running by my house. As it ran, I realized that it was a coyote and not a dog. I have never seen a coyote go by my house. It turned down the next back lane going east and then headed north. Unfortunately I did not have my phone in my hand as I was going to pick it up when something caught my eye outside on the street. Would have been great to have had a photo of our visitor. I sure hope that no one left their dogs outside unattended as I think that they can actually jump the height of our fences. I immediately texted all of my friends in the neighbourhood to warn them. One of my friends already texted me back to say that she saw a big one running down the street about two days ago. They are getting brave and must be hungry. Quite scary. Another reason why I do not walk with Alvin or by myself in the dark. It is hard not to in the wintertime. But when we go after work, will make sure that we go right after work no dilly dallying about. We have a lot of rabbits in the neighbourhood. I know it is the circle of life but the thought makes me feel bad/sad. Anyway, it is good to be aware of your surroundings and I am glad that I let my friends and neighbours know.

I sure could have stayed out in the backyard this morning as it is so warm. Really nice. The snow is becoming sticky and is feeling like snowman making time. Perhaps later.

Last night I went to visit one of my neighbours, the one with the new pup. The name reverted back to its’ original one which is Kami. She is a delight and for eight months old, quite well behaved. We will be watching her on Wednesday night while her Mom goes curling and I cannot wait. Excited for Alvin and Kami to get to know each one a bit better. They have met so that is great. I also have to go into the office tomorrow for the day. My neighbour will come and check on Mr. Alvin as I do not wish to leave him alone for that long of a day. Too long for an older guy.

Well time to have some coffee (sure am enjoying my new coffee perk) and get settled in for work.

I look forward to walking at my lunch break again today. Yesterday was nice but today is warmer already.

Have an awesome day. Be careful and enjoy your day.

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

Always, Carol & Alvin

2021

Good Morning ALL! How are you this Monday morning? First work day with the clocks set back one hour, I would say that it was a bit easier getting up this morning. Alvin slept till 3:00 a.m. without waking up which was great. I was stumbling around in the backyard trying to find where he pooped last night (that was early evening). When we went back into the house, I texted one of my close neighbours to ask if she had two “D” batteries for a flashlight, she said “Dang it, we don’t have any D batteries, sorry.” The next words changed my life. “But your phone should have a flashlight.” A flashlight on my phone, wow, never thought of that. I texted her thank you and went to “settings” to find the flashlight. A few moments later, I found the “flashlight” and texted back to thank her profusely and then went outside to try it out. OMG, it lights the darkness so well. I had no problem seeing what I needed to see and could even shine the line for Alvin to see where he was going but I think they have better night vision than we do. That being said …. he could still step on missed poop. We wouldn’t want that. Okay I guess enough of the pooping stories. Anyway I used the flashlight at 3:00 a.m. and then again at 4:30 a.m. and I am so happy. It will make a huge difference and guess what I “did not have to spend any money, no extra money, not one cent.” I can tell you that I was doing a happy dance last night. I cannot believe that I did not know or realize that our smartphones have flashlights. Better late than never to the table, I say.

I managed to give Mr. Alvin a decent haircut and followed up with a bath yesterday. He was a bit better than normal. I also forgot to give him some anxiety medicine. Next time. I also baked some cinnamon scones and two rhubarb/apple crisps and we went for a nice walk. A good day all the way round. Ended with learning something new – the flashlight on my phone. I guess it truly is a “smart” phone. I can still remember the phones that we had one farm ….. that had a different amount of rings for each family on the line…… then the rotary phone, cordless phone, mobile phone and now “smartphones.” WOW. All this happened in my “64” years on this planet.

Well I see by the clock on the wall that it is time to head on downstairs, put on some coffee and shortly start work. I hope that you have an awesome day.

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

Always, Carol & Alvin

2021

Good Morning ALL. How are you this very windy Thursday morning? Or at least it is windy here in Edmonton, Alberta. I have to apologize (which I have already done) for forgetting to shout out Happy Birthday wishes to my younger brother. I completely forgot that yesterday was his birthday when I was doing this blog and then I got sidetracked when Alvin and I had gone downstairs after I got dressed and wrote my blog to find an Emergency Vehicle, Firetruck and Ambulance parked outside my house. The Head vehicle turned around and left leaving the Firetruck and Ambulance. The Emergency staff from the Ambulance were outside donning their COVID19 gear of gown, masks and gloves. Kind of through me for a loop. I had no idea where they were headed. As they were not coming to my house, they were next closest to Humphrey & Bogart’s house, my heart sank. When they walked past her house, I quickly texted Sonja. My heart was racing. I know most of my neighbours …. some obviously better than others. In a matter of minutes the “phone lines were hot” with people checking on me. They were in the house for what seemed forever but as this was a work day for me, I could not stand at the window gawking out. At some point the firetruck left leaving the ambulance. A bit later I checked and they were back at the ambulance removing their gear. They did not place anyone in the back. I hope that all is well. Not like you can knock on their door and ask. I am not nosey just concerned. So that started my day. Not long after that the wind got up and it started to rain. I could only think how grateful that I was for making Alvin’s vet appointment for Tuesday and not Wednesday. After some rain the rain turned to fluffy snow. So the sidewalks are icy where the wind blew the snow away. I found that out when I went to shovel last night. We did not go for a walk as we had a mini blizzard happening. I did some walking on the spot to get some steps in and of course up and down the stairs several time. Mr. Alvin is now whining at the doorway to the office so I had better get going.

So it was quite the Wednesday. I had a nice chat with my brother last night. He had a good day. Said it was raining in Calgary …. raining for his birthday. The first time he can remember that happening.

Oh and President Trump was impeached for a second time. How could I forget that. This Wednesday will not be forgotten anytime soon.

Time to get this day going.

I hope that you have an awesome Thursday. Hoping you are well and take care, be safe.

Continuing to live our lives with kindness, respect and compassion.

Always, Carol & Alvin

2021

Good Morning ALL. Thank goodness it is now Friday. Not that I want to wish my life away but what an exhausting week it has been. Sometimes I wished that I did not watch anything on television or visit any social media platforms; the news has been horrific. I know that most people had visions of 2021 being all that 2020 was not but we are not off to a great start. Our restrictions have been extended another two weeks. Other Canadian provinces have placed even more strict protocols than my now home province of Alberta.

All I can say is today is a new day. Hopefully we can do better. We have to, we must. No matter what is going on around us ….. we have to step up and be better citizens of the world.

Yesterday at noon we walked over and picked up Teddy and Kobi to bring them home with us for the afternoon. It was an interesting walk with three pups. Kobi is the escape artist so I was most careful with her. We kept running into people with large dogs but luckily for me they all nodded their heads and crossed the street; I guess an “older” woman with three dogs coming toward them was reason enough. I nodded and smiled with thanks. I had not thought that Alvin would have to poop on the way but we only walked to their house and did not go for the full walk, so really I should not have been surprised. So here I am with an extra strap around one wrist and the leash for Kobi in one hand, and the two on my other hand and trying to open a poop bag and then to pick it up. It was a funny sight! I managed and then we were on our way. I was grateful to get home and to be home with a few minutes to spare so that I could get us settled before heading back to work at my kitchen table. We had a good afternoon. The pups were good.

After work I decided to take the thermostat off the base, and change the batteries as it was giving the message REPLACE BATTERIES. I had it off and took batteries out of my battery container only to find that they were DEAD when I replace the thermostat on the base. So I set the thermostat on the table and figured that I would just ask my daughter to bring some double A batteries with her today as she is coming to drop off some new bras and socks that I ordered. Yup, Momma is getting some new BRAS, yes I said it. They are desperately needed and socks as well. Back to the battery. I was feeling a bit chilled and realized after a bit that the furnace had not cut in so I did what any other modern day woman would do, I googled the situation. I found out that the thermostat talks to the furnace and it will not know that it needs to cut in, with no batteries. Basically it cannot respond to nonexistent temperature commands. So that is why I was getting cold and had actually gone and put on some warmer clothes. It was at that time that I started phoning and texting all my friends and neighbours. After a few calls, I was able to speak to my friend Signe who had some batteries. I was just on my way over to pick them up when another neighbour’s son came bounding up the walk with hand out “Mom, said you needed batteries.” I received other texts and calls to check. So grateful for such caring and wonderful neighbours. I called Signe to thank her and advise that I now had some batteries. The furnace cut in the first second the new batteries were installed and it was back on the base. The air once again felt warm. So grateful. Pups went home just before 7 p.m. and after our battery fiasco.

Well time to head back downstairs and get this work day going. I need coffee this morning.

Living with kindness, respect and compassion for all, please we must.

Always, Carol & Alvin

Second Half of the NEW YEAR

Good Morning All,

Earlier this morning the air was warm and fresh. Still that way except while I was in the shower it rained. The sidewalks told the story when I looked out of the bedroom window. We are supposed to get some extremely strong winds today. Batten down your hatches.

I am finishing up things before heading to work. Thank goodness today’s commute is as far as the kitchen. I am so over the moon grateful to be working from home. So much less work “getting ready” for work being at home. I love it. Fingers crossed that after January 1, 2021 – that I may continue working from home. I know that Mr. Alvin will love me being at home, as well.

Last night my daughter and I were texting before bed and we were mentioning about reading. I have read more books this summer than I have in many years. Reading has always been a large part of our lives and we both enjoy it so much. She has read 40 or so books this summer. My total would not be near that amount but I have read several. Enjoying finding new authors.

Well it is almost time for work. Yes, I slept in this morning. Just could not get my fanny up and going. This is the toughest time of year to be motivated in the mornings when it is still dark when you are rising. I could definitely be a bear. Oh well, in a few weeks I will be acclimatized.

Better get going. Need COFFEEEEEE this morning.

Take care and be safe on this day and all to follow.

Living with kindness and respect for all.

I/We shall remain,

As Always, Carol & Alvin

Second Half of the NEW YEAR.

Good Morning,

The sky is overcast.

Some of my flowers closest to the house are still draped with sheets.

I covered them just in case of frost as it was only to be +1 celsius last night.

There was dew on the grass this morning so luckily no frost.

I removed the sheets from the flowers on the upper deck by the garage and also took the tomato pot and other flowers out of the garage.

The sky looks like rain so I will have to pull of the sheets and rearrange them shortly.

I am happy no frost.

I have been texting my siblings in the mornings to say hi and a quick update on things.

My brother that lives in the countryside about 2 hours from Edmonton says it is -3 celsius there now.

There would be frost.

The next couple of weeks show beautiful weather in the forecast.

One day even +24 which is crazy beautiful for this time of year.

I would take 18-21 until end of November.

That would be delightful.

The chances of that happening …. not sure.

But not likely.

But with Climate Change ….. nothing is impossible.

 

My heart goes out to our neighbours in the south.

The loss of human life, animal life, birds, insect life, plant life, trees, businesses and homes is staggering.

I worry about the animals, those creatures who are not able to escape the fiery infernos.

There is no way to get out and my heart screams in pain for them.

The smoke in Vancouver, Canada which is north of the fires looks like the fires are there.

With the winds the smoke is travelling hundreds of miles.

Causing havoc in its’ wake.

The devastation is off the charts.

I wish, I hope and I pray for the fires to be extinguished immediately.

I thank each and every person who walks out the door in the morning into the fires to extinguish them for others.

 

On this day as I sit on a chair keying these words, I am so grateful for my life.

We are blessed to live where we do.

I am grateful for the rain.

I am grateful to be safe and alive.

I am grateful for my own house.

I am grateful to always have more than enough food for me and my dog Alvin.

I am grateful that we are both in GOOD health.

I am grateful to be surrounded by loving and supportive family and friends.

I am grateful to laugh each and everyday.

I am grateful for this moment and every one to follow on this day.

I am grateful to be employed.

I am grateful that I am able to work from my home.

I am grateful for everything.

 

On this day and everyday we must not fret over small things.

Don’t worry about things you cannot control.

Be grateful and show that gratitude.

Be kind and respectful.

 

Have an awesome day.

Living with kindness and respect.

I/We shall remain,

As Always, Carol & Alvin