Day 1011 - 1017
What a difference a day can make! On Monday it was a beautiful fall day. We had a semi come for a load of barley, and it was actually a little sweaty in the bin. There were trucks and cement trucks, and bobcats and carpenters, and generally the yard was crowded. Our piles for the foundation were dug and filled that day, and there wasn't a hint of snow on the ground. But the next morning... wow... 8" of the stuff all over, and the temperature dropped like a stone. It was dramatic to say the least. We had canceled therapy because of the truck, and Glenn had been able to get out and watch some of the action on Monday, and a good thing too, because he has been stuck in the house since. I shoveled the front deck and ramp yesterday, you never know when you may have to leave, and now we are waiting to see if it will storm. It is supposed to go south , and not hit us, but stranger things have happened.
We have started drinking more tea since the 'flu hit us, and Glenn commented that he was able to "slurp" again. That means he is able to control what is going into his mouth a bit more. He was unable to drink really hot beverages because he couldn't just sip before. Amazing that things still are coming along. He stands more all the time because there is activity to the north of us, and he is curious to see what is happening. He also suggested that we set up a small shop in the new garage for him to putter around in, and I think that is a good idea. We'll let him design that as we go along. His posture is better, he can stand almost regularly, and does so with a fair bit more ease than before. If he is distracted and doesn't try too hard, he does well. I'm pretty encouraged by that.
On the housing front, Colin and Chelsey have a beam and the joists in place, but the floor isn't on yet. They have to build the stairway next, so the floor should go on next week. Our footings are starting to take shape. They poured the pilings first, then dug around them so the footing will surround them. We have a really big hole there now, and are wondering about the pile of dirt. We have a well in the yard that needs filling, but I don't think it will take all of it! It is too bad they couldn't do this in November when it was nice, but they don't seem concerned about the weather, so we are taking pictures as they progress.
Chelsey goes to Vancouver soon to defend her thesis. She is so ready to be done, and has had to fight the profs to even get this far. They are trying to put off doing their jobs, and she is paying the price. Anyway, she will finish, and then the house and the wedding will take up her time. She is so excited to see the building, and Colin just walks around smiling. It is good to watch them.
Christmas is fast approaching, and it occurs to us that this may be the last one in our present house. That is a bit jarring, there are lots of memories here. Change is constant, and we really didn't expect to be doing any of these things, but life is full of challenges and change, and a person needs to adapt and accept or get left behind.
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Saturday, November 28, 2009
November 22-28
Day1004 - 1010
Yeah, we have dirt moved! the surveyors came Tuesday, and the digger came Thursday, so Colin and Chelsey have to climb through a bit of a battlefield right now, but that is OK.
We had the 'flu this week and are both pretty dragged out. Glenn ran a temp for a couple of days, and spent the night in the recliner, but seems to be over the worst of it. I am pooped out, and need a good sleep. Maybe tonight! I had a fever last night too, so that doesn't help. It is kind of a relief to have gotten through it without too much hassle, you just never know what will happen. Glenn's was very stiff for a couple of days, and that probably added to the fatigue. He was looking forward to just chilling today, and I plan to do that tonight.
There is really nothing much else to say right now, could be because I'm not firing on all 8, but I'll sign off.
'Til next time,
Louise
Yeah, we have dirt moved! the surveyors came Tuesday, and the digger came Thursday, so Colin and Chelsey have to climb through a bit of a battlefield right now, but that is OK.
We had the 'flu this week and are both pretty dragged out. Glenn ran a temp for a couple of days, and spent the night in the recliner, but seems to be over the worst of it. I am pooped out, and need a good sleep. Maybe tonight! I had a fever last night too, so that doesn't help. It is kind of a relief to have gotten through it without too much hassle, you just never know what will happen. Glenn's was very stiff for a couple of days, and that probably added to the fatigue. He was looking forward to just chilling today, and I plan to do that tonight.
There is really nothing much else to say right now, could be because I'm not firing on all 8, but I'll sign off.
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, November 21, 2009
November 1 -21
Day 983-1003
I didn't have much to say other than whining, so I didn't post over the last 3 weeks. Sorry, but I was not a happy camper, and we had to go through the MLA's office torequest approval. It has been a long three weeks waiting for a decision. We considered our options, and really we need to build at the site we chose. The house is going to sprawl a bit, and if we moved back 50' we would have been hitting the shed. To move the shed would have been costly, and to start a new yard site would also have been costly, so we waited, and were as squeaky as we could be. Our contractor also put a bit of pressure on, so we covered as many angles as we could. Finally, on Thursday, we were granted a permit to build at the site we chose, as the engineers thought that the existing house had not presented any problems with the maintenance of the highway, so they thought another house there would be OK. What a relief! We phoned as many people as we had working on this to let them know, and we are now a go. We weren't the only ones feeling the frustration of this hold up. It is good to be on the right side of the department though, because they could have made us move the house if we had no permit.
Colin and Chelsey's house is taking shape, they poured concrete on Tuesday, so they have basement walls. The weather has been phenomenal, so we are hoping it will hold for a while yet while ours gets started.
All the activity in the yard keeps Glenn on his feet. We can watch out the kitchen window, so he stands quite a bit. We are recording the progress, and he has gone out and taken pictures when I'm not there, so it is good for him. He hasn't caught a cold , although I came down with one last week. I think things bother me more than they bother him, but he doesn't whine like I do, so it is hard to tell!
We go to the cardiologist on the 16th of December for a checkup. We haven't started any other kind of therapy, but may do something next year after we are moved. I am a bit afraid of that, but it is a good way to lighten the load, and clean out stuff we haven't used for a long time. The wedding in June could be right in middle of moving, but we'll know more as the houses go, they may not be ready until the end of summer. That will be revealed.
'Til next time,
Louise
I didn't have much to say other than whining, so I didn't post over the last 3 weeks. Sorry, but I was not a happy camper, and we had to go through the MLA's office torequest approval. It has been a long three weeks waiting for a decision. We considered our options, and really we need to build at the site we chose. The house is going to sprawl a bit, and if we moved back 50' we would have been hitting the shed. To move the shed would have been costly, and to start a new yard site would also have been costly, so we waited, and were as squeaky as we could be. Our contractor also put a bit of pressure on, so we covered as many angles as we could. Finally, on Thursday, we were granted a permit to build at the site we chose, as the engineers thought that the existing house had not presented any problems with the maintenance of the highway, so they thought another house there would be OK. What a relief! We phoned as many people as we had working on this to let them know, and we are now a go. We weren't the only ones feeling the frustration of this hold up. It is good to be on the right side of the department though, because they could have made us move the house if we had no permit.
Colin and Chelsey's house is taking shape, they poured concrete on Tuesday, so they have basement walls. The weather has been phenomenal, so we are hoping it will hold for a while yet while ours gets started.
All the activity in the yard keeps Glenn on his feet. We can watch out the kitchen window, so he stands quite a bit. We are recording the progress, and he has gone out and taken pictures when I'm not there, so it is good for him. He hasn't caught a cold , although I came down with one last week. I think things bother me more than they bother him, but he doesn't whine like I do, so it is hard to tell!
We go to the cardiologist on the 16th of December for a checkup. We haven't started any other kind of therapy, but may do something next year after we are moved. I am a bit afraid of that, but it is a good way to lighten the load, and clean out stuff we haven't used for a long time. The wedding in June could be right in middle of moving, but we'll know more as the houses go, they may not be ready until the end of summer. That will be revealed.
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, October 31, 2009
October 18 - 31
Day 969-982
Happy Hallowe'en! The weather is still bad, the roads are mucky, and I think the kids will have to be dressed pretty warm for tonight. It could be blizzard like. We took kids out in snow storms, so anything is possible.
I've got to rant a bit. We have hit a big road block. The highways want a 60 meter setback for new homes, and we were building at the old set back of 150 feet. 60 meters is about 200'. If we were to move the house back that far at the present sight, we will be very close to the machine shed. We have a fellow in Highways trying to get the permit, and has suggested a "grandfather" clause that may be approved, but he also said it would be prudent to wait, because it really doesn't look good. We have been trying to think of another spot to build, but it will have to be outside the present yard sight, as everything is too close. I am so unhappy!
The builder has started on Colin and Chelsey's house though, so it was good and not good to watch the hole being dug yesterday. I'm trying to think positively, and I think a few prayers for us would be good!
Glenn was busy watching the action, so he stood a fair bit at the kitchen sink. He likes to have things to do. We got the sink unclogged the day before, so he was fascinated with the power snake the guys used. He looked one up on line, and we are deciding if we would justify the purchase of our own. So far, no, but wait until something else gets blocked up.
I just had to complain this morning, something will work out, but not without hassle, and I am tired of hassle. People keep saying nothing in life is easy, but why not? Any way, I'll let you know what happens.
'Til next time,
Louise
Happy Hallowe'en! The weather is still bad, the roads are mucky, and I think the kids will have to be dressed pretty warm for tonight. It could be blizzard like. We took kids out in snow storms, so anything is possible.
I've got to rant a bit. We have hit a big road block. The highways want a 60 meter setback for new homes, and we were building at the old set back of 150 feet. 60 meters is about 200'. If we were to move the house back that far at the present sight, we will be very close to the machine shed. We have a fellow in Highways trying to get the permit, and has suggested a "grandfather" clause that may be approved, but he also said it would be prudent to wait, because it really doesn't look good. We have been trying to think of another spot to build, but it will have to be outside the present yard sight, as everything is too close. I am so unhappy!
The builder has started on Colin and Chelsey's house though, so it was good and not good to watch the hole being dug yesterday. I'm trying to think positively, and I think a few prayers for us would be good!
Glenn was busy watching the action, so he stood a fair bit at the kitchen sink. He likes to have things to do. We got the sink unclogged the day before, so he was fascinated with the power snake the guys used. He looked one up on line, and we are deciding if we would justify the purchase of our own. So far, no, but wait until something else gets blocked up.
I just had to complain this morning, something will work out, but not without hassle, and I am tired of hassle. People keep saying nothing in life is easy, but why not? Any way, I'll let you know what happens.
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, October 17, 2009
September 30 - October 17
Day 950 - 968
Every time I come to post, I am amazed at the amount of time I am leaving between posts. We are pretty busy these days, and I just forget to do this as much as I used to. (That could have something to do with old age, but I'm not admitting that!)
We have permits, but are now in line for the crews to come and start. The digging could start any time, but the weather has been the pits. It snowed over 4" last week, and has hung around since. It may disappear this weekend, but will leave behind a mucky mess. I just want something to start. This is hard on the nerves!
Glenn is designing and working out lifts to help get him in and out of vehicles. He has found some things online, so he doesn't have to re-invent the wheel. It will be interesting to get some things accessible for him to putter in the shop. It struck me a while ago that we need to do that now, it is his shop after all, and he should be able to go to it and do something there. It will take a bit of doing, but here again the motivation will be priceless. He could stand more, and move around more, and just generally do more, if he can access the shop. I'm pretty excited, we are getting a bit on each others case in the house all the time. Space will be welcome.
We had 2 Thanksgiving dinners last weekend, so we are about full of turkey for a while. It was good to be together, though. The guys are waiting to get back and finish harvest. Hopefully this warm spell will let them do that. I'm really glad we decided to rent this year, I didn't need that worry to add to the pile.
We are full swing into piano lessons. Glenn has helped make spread sheets for me to keep track of who has come and paid. He has started doing the books a bit more too, and has been to Farm Credit to visit his fellow workers. He really enjoys that. The last time, we went for drinks after, and he is getting more comfortable with them again. I even left him there for a couple of hours while I went to the Cornwall Centre. I was happy to see him visiting with a few people when I got back, and they said they only had trouble with a few things he told them. What a big step, I can't even tell you how it felt. The best I can do is to say it was like leaving your kids with a new babysitter for the first time, sort of. Courage is a funny thing, it is found in apparently small things, but in reality, it is stepping out of the comfort zone into the unknown. I'm not very good at it.
I have rambled a bit this morning, hopefully the next post will be news of construction.
'Til next time,
Louise
Every time I come to post, I am amazed at the amount of time I am leaving between posts. We are pretty busy these days, and I just forget to do this as much as I used to. (That could have something to do with old age, but I'm not admitting that!)
We have permits, but are now in line for the crews to come and start. The digging could start any time, but the weather has been the pits. It snowed over 4" last week, and has hung around since. It may disappear this weekend, but will leave behind a mucky mess. I just want something to start. This is hard on the nerves!
Glenn is designing and working out lifts to help get him in and out of vehicles. He has found some things online, so he doesn't have to re-invent the wheel. It will be interesting to get some things accessible for him to putter in the shop. It struck me a while ago that we need to do that now, it is his shop after all, and he should be able to go to it and do something there. It will take a bit of doing, but here again the motivation will be priceless. He could stand more, and move around more, and just generally do more, if he can access the shop. I'm pretty excited, we are getting a bit on each others case in the house all the time. Space will be welcome.
We had 2 Thanksgiving dinners last weekend, so we are about full of turkey for a while. It was good to be together, though. The guys are waiting to get back and finish harvest. Hopefully this warm spell will let them do that. I'm really glad we decided to rent this year, I didn't need that worry to add to the pile.
We are full swing into piano lessons. Glenn has helped make spread sheets for me to keep track of who has come and paid. He has started doing the books a bit more too, and has been to Farm Credit to visit his fellow workers. He really enjoys that. The last time, we went for drinks after, and he is getting more comfortable with them again. I even left him there for a couple of hours while I went to the Cornwall Centre. I was happy to see him visiting with a few people when I got back, and they said they only had trouble with a few things he told them. What a big step, I can't even tell you how it felt. The best I can do is to say it was like leaving your kids with a new babysitter for the first time, sort of. Courage is a funny thing, it is found in apparently small things, but in reality, it is stepping out of the comfort zone into the unknown. I'm not very good at it.
I have rambled a bit this morning, hopefully the next post will be news of construction.
'Til next time,
Louise
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
September 13-29
Day 934-950
We are still waiting on paper work! It is hard, especially with the weather turning and the days growing shorter, but there is no help for it, it is just taking more time than I thought it would. The number of people and layers of approval is amazing. When did all that happen and why is it so cumbersome now? I have to think it is mostly a make work project. No one seems to be in much of a rush either, although I say that because we are the ones waiting!
Glenn continues to buy laptops, although he is not having a lot of luck in getting them working. They are too old to handle the size of hard drives available now, so he is starting to search for used ones. It keeps him busy, but is also a bit frustrating. I am learning now, and can understand a lot of the computer speak, which is amazing to me.
Glenn is not going to have any more botox, unless we ask for it. He has fewer spasms, and the tone seems to be easing as a whole, although he did stiffen up yesterday in the cool air. I think I need to get out the parkas! The therapist actually covered him with a heated blanket because they couldn't stretch hm very well until he warmed up. The scary thing is he didn't complain about being cold to me, so I don't know why he was so cold. He said it happened while he was waiting in the therapy room, so maybe he needs longjohns!
We finally sold our barley for feed, and what a disappointment! The price is in the toilet right now, but we have held it for over a year, and they just wouldn't pick it up for malt. So be it. Now we are figuring out how to get help loading it, they come when the boys are at work, and I guess I'll see what happens as we go along. I should have let it go at the end of July when feed was $3.00 /bushel, but we didn't, and now it is less than that. It's the pits!
The kids came out on Sunday and packed the equipment into the shed for the winter. We didn't sell the combine, so it will sit for another year. Next year we'll try again. I had put some anti freeze into the camper too, so they tucked that away too. The yard looks empty now, that's for sure. We had tractors sitting out all summer. Maybe there will be construction equipment soon!
'Til next time,
Louise
We are still waiting on paper work! It is hard, especially with the weather turning and the days growing shorter, but there is no help for it, it is just taking more time than I thought it would. The number of people and layers of approval is amazing. When did all that happen and why is it so cumbersome now? I have to think it is mostly a make work project. No one seems to be in much of a rush either, although I say that because we are the ones waiting!
Glenn continues to buy laptops, although he is not having a lot of luck in getting them working. They are too old to handle the size of hard drives available now, so he is starting to search for used ones. It keeps him busy, but is also a bit frustrating. I am learning now, and can understand a lot of the computer speak, which is amazing to me.
Glenn is not going to have any more botox, unless we ask for it. He has fewer spasms, and the tone seems to be easing as a whole, although he did stiffen up yesterday in the cool air. I think I need to get out the parkas! The therapist actually covered him with a heated blanket because they couldn't stretch hm very well until he warmed up. The scary thing is he didn't complain about being cold to me, so I don't know why he was so cold. He said it happened while he was waiting in the therapy room, so maybe he needs longjohns!
We finally sold our barley for feed, and what a disappointment! The price is in the toilet right now, but we have held it for over a year, and they just wouldn't pick it up for malt. So be it. Now we are figuring out how to get help loading it, they come when the boys are at work, and I guess I'll see what happens as we go along. I should have let it go at the end of July when feed was $3.00 /bushel, but we didn't, and now it is less than that. It's the pits!
The kids came out on Sunday and packed the equipment into the shed for the winter. We didn't sell the combine, so it will sit for another year. Next year we'll try again. I had put some anti freeze into the camper too, so they tucked that away too. The yard looks empty now, that's for sure. We had tractors sitting out all summer. Maybe there will be construction equipment soon!
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, September 12, 2009
August 30-September 12
Day 920-933
Wow, what a beautiful day today is! It was really wet this morning, but it is one of the days in September that is made to enjoy! We were in the city yesterday, and it was nice for that too. We are getting around to visit more, it still plays me out, but that is getting easier too. We have learned a thing or two about where we can and can not go.
Glenn was standing at the sink the other day, and I asked him how long he has been doing that. Oh, he tries it now and then, but he was not even leaning against the chair! He tries more than I know about, I think, and it is good to see the progress. He still is breaking the rules of recovery in this situation, and I say "Yeah!"
We went to his work yesterday, and I let someone take him on a tour while I sat in the waiting area. The people he was visiting with could understand most of what he said! I think that it is time to expose him more that way, it breaks down a few fears and inhibitions. They couldn't figure out one thing he said, so I think that was a good start. He is to receive a long time achievement award, so we will go back soon while the weather is still nice, or at least while there is no snow.
We still haven't had any action in the yard as to house building, but I think the paper work is almost complete. I'm starting to get bills, anyway, so that should be a sign of completion. It is hard to wait, Colin and Chelsey are chasing the subdivision as it goes through the bureaucracy. They are of the impression it is soon completed as well.
'Til next time,
Louise
Wow, what a beautiful day today is! It was really wet this morning, but it is one of the days in September that is made to enjoy! We were in the city yesterday, and it was nice for that too. We are getting around to visit more, it still plays me out, but that is getting easier too. We have learned a thing or two about where we can and can not go.
Glenn was standing at the sink the other day, and I asked him how long he has been doing that. Oh, he tries it now and then, but he was not even leaning against the chair! He tries more than I know about, I think, and it is good to see the progress. He still is breaking the rules of recovery in this situation, and I say "Yeah!"
We went to his work yesterday, and I let someone take him on a tour while I sat in the waiting area. The people he was visiting with could understand most of what he said! I think that it is time to expose him more that way, it breaks down a few fears and inhibitions. They couldn't figure out one thing he said, so I think that was a good start. He is to receive a long time achievement award, so we will go back soon while the weather is still nice, or at least while there is no snow.
We still haven't had any action in the yard as to house building, but I think the paper work is almost complete. I'm starting to get bills, anyway, so that should be a sign of completion. It is hard to wait, Colin and Chelsey are chasing the subdivision as it goes through the bureaucracy. They are of the impression it is soon completed as well.
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, August 29, 2009
August 23-29
Day 913-919
It is going to be 2 years since Glenn came hme from the hospital, and it is true that time heals wounds. We are not totally used to this new life, but it is life and we are getting along pretty well. I think people miss seeing us, but that may change in the future as we get more mobile. An attached garage will help that along I think. Glenn is looking to be among people again, so that is another big hurdle overcome.
The weather is a bit more pleasant for being outside. Glenn needs to stand more, but is pretty limber all in all. We need to work on his right wrist too. This takes discipline, and I seem to forget in the hub bub of everything else. Perhaps Glenn will do it more himself, or at least remind me to help him. He is going to have to find more to occupy himself than just his old computers. Something will present itself. He always says he is lazy, but the time can get long, he was always up to something. I'm glad to see him look for things to do though, it is a good sign.
No construction has started yet, so there is no news on that front. Colin was in Toronto this week, and I haven't seen him since he got home. Dale is moving the last of his things today. He and his band were in a show last night, and he was pleased to say they came away with money in their pockets. What a busy time we have had this summer! It is no wonder the time goes by so fast.
'Til next time,
Louise
It is going to be 2 years since Glenn came hme from the hospital, and it is true that time heals wounds. We are not totally used to this new life, but it is life and we are getting along pretty well. I think people miss seeing us, but that may change in the future as we get more mobile. An attached garage will help that along I think. Glenn is looking to be among people again, so that is another big hurdle overcome.
The weather is a bit more pleasant for being outside. Glenn needs to stand more, but is pretty limber all in all. We need to work on his right wrist too. This takes discipline, and I seem to forget in the hub bub of everything else. Perhaps Glenn will do it more himself, or at least remind me to help him. He is going to have to find more to occupy himself than just his old computers. Something will present itself. He always says he is lazy, but the time can get long, he was always up to something. I'm glad to see him look for things to do though, it is a good sign.
No construction has started yet, so there is no news on that front. Colin was in Toronto this week, and I haven't seen him since he got home. Dale is moving the last of his things today. He and his band were in a show last night, and he was pleased to say they came away with money in their pockets. What a busy time we have had this summer! It is no wonder the time goes by so fast.
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Aug 2-22
Day 892-912
August is almost over, I didn't realize it had been so long since I posted. We have been busy, and actually got away camping for 3 days! It went well, and we discovered a new venue for us to use. The Buffalo Pound campground has accessible sites, and they were very good. Our site was paved, close to the bathroom that had a wheelchair room for families, and we had power. We camped with Jackie and Johnny, Colin and Chelsey, and Wendy and Krystal, so it was nice to have different faces to look at. We ate well, and everyone was happy with how things went. It was a big step!
Dale is in the process of moving, so he has our Rav today. Our 1/2 ton is being used by Chris's friends who are also moving into a house. I guess it was time for everyone to buy a house. Dale is a bit anxious about his mortgage guy, who is dragging his feet a bit as far as that goes, but hopefully everything will be OK. I think I would have found someone else by now, but that comes with age.
We are closer to building, the garage at the other house was moved the beginning of August, and I have someone coming to prepare the site next week. I think it will go fast once it starts, the contractor wants it to be closed in by November, so I think we are waiting for paperwork yet. I will be happy to think about something else, and that would be piano lessons. I've seen a few parents lately, and it occurred to me that I will have to get my schedule sorted out soon. Busy, busy, busy.
The quilt I was working on has been quilted, and I'm in the process of binding it. It has turned out beautifully, and more than I expected. That is a good feeling, when your vision turns into a vision!
Enough about me, Glenn is funny, he is into his computers more than ever, and I am getting pretty good at putting them back together. Some of them even run when we are through with them! It keeps him thinking, that's for sure. He has bid on a few more, but I told him he is cutoff!
'Til next time,
Louise
August is almost over, I didn't realize it had been so long since I posted. We have been busy, and actually got away camping for 3 days! It went well, and we discovered a new venue for us to use. The Buffalo Pound campground has accessible sites, and they were very good. Our site was paved, close to the bathroom that had a wheelchair room for families, and we had power. We camped with Jackie and Johnny, Colin and Chelsey, and Wendy and Krystal, so it was nice to have different faces to look at. We ate well, and everyone was happy with how things went. It was a big step!
Dale is in the process of moving, so he has our Rav today. Our 1/2 ton is being used by Chris's friends who are also moving into a house. I guess it was time for everyone to buy a house. Dale is a bit anxious about his mortgage guy, who is dragging his feet a bit as far as that goes, but hopefully everything will be OK. I think I would have found someone else by now, but that comes with age.
We are closer to building, the garage at the other house was moved the beginning of August, and I have someone coming to prepare the site next week. I think it will go fast once it starts, the contractor wants it to be closed in by November, so I think we are waiting for paperwork yet. I will be happy to think about something else, and that would be piano lessons. I've seen a few parents lately, and it occurred to me that I will have to get my schedule sorted out soon. Busy, busy, busy.
The quilt I was working on has been quilted, and I'm in the process of binding it. It has turned out beautifully, and more than I expected. That is a good feeling, when your vision turns into a vision!
Enough about me, Glenn is funny, he is into his computers more than ever, and I am getting pretty good at putting them back together. Some of them even run when we are through with them! It keeps him thinking, that's for sure. He has bid on a few more, but I told him he is cutoff!
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, August 1, 2009
July 26 - Aug 1
Day 885-891
Jackie and Johnny had a big day yesterday, and got moved to their new house. We went to help in the afternoon, and I washed out cupboards and did a few walls while they went back for the last load and final cleanup. It was supper time by the time they got back, but I had gone to Subway for subs, and they gobbled them up. When we left, they were pretty wiped, but Jackie had gotten the bathroom ready, so they probably both showered and dropped into bed. Johnny gets pretty cranked up, and can go like crazy, but hits the wall pretty hard too. Anyway, Dale took him in for his car, and we left, I figured he needed some quiet time when he got home. They had a lot of visitors already, so I imagine they will have a few more on the weekend. Jackie was putting away kitchen stuff, and it was like being at the gift opening. They had not opened a lot of their wedding gifts, so she was all excited to open the boxes and look at the new things they have. It was a good day.
I had taken Glenn along, and eventually gave him a spray bottle and rag, and he wiped walls, as high as he could reach. I'm sure it is hard for him, he was always willing to dig in and get things done, so just sitting was boring. We had taken a computer (one of our many laptops), but I didn't plug it in right away, so it died. The kids didn't have the TV hooked up yet, so he amused himself by standing at the railing. At first he was going to stay home alone, but I talked him into coming, so that I didn't have to worry about him. It was a good thing, the house was a bit jumbled, but he was offering advise, and generally being himself, ribbing everyone who came by. Chris helped in the morning, but he and Aryn were going camping, so wanted to be away by noon or shortly after. He can get things done, and has moved enough times to have a lot of knowledge about packing. Johnny appreciated the help. Johnny's sister dropped in on her way to the lake, and had a quick look around. Then Grandpa and Grandma came and brought a cake to help with the move. The kids had borrowed Grandpa's truck, so they were anxious to see the new digs. It is a nice house, and a big yard. Jackie was pretty happy to find raspberries and rhubarb there, so she can pick some for nibbling.
We are expecting to have the little garage moved tomorrow, so we have to get it cleaned out. I had a go at it once, and have called in a few recruits to help. The fellow who is getting it wants to load it onto a trailer, so it could be interesting before this is done. It is the first step, and once the ball gets rolling, it will be exciting. It will be soon, I'm sure the building permits have been submitted, the builder wants to have the houses closed up by November, so there is a lot of planning going on. It still seems unreal, but will be so nice for Glenn to get around while he is in the chair.
Next will be Dale, but he won't have as much to move as Jackie and Johnny. He is working on the paper work, and feels a little unsure where he will be at the end of August, but he will not be in the city anymore, that he is sure of. He said that work was a bit hard this week, Murphy's law was a big factor, and nothing is more frustrating than that. He is looking forward to a bit of time in the tractor, as the summerfallow needs disking. I think he needs the alone time to let the rest of the action come into perspective. He will give Glenn something to argue about too, and that is always entertaining.
'Til next time,
Louise
Jackie and Johnny had a big day yesterday, and got moved to their new house. We went to help in the afternoon, and I washed out cupboards and did a few walls while they went back for the last load and final cleanup. It was supper time by the time they got back, but I had gone to Subway for subs, and they gobbled them up. When we left, they were pretty wiped, but Jackie had gotten the bathroom ready, so they probably both showered and dropped into bed. Johnny gets pretty cranked up, and can go like crazy, but hits the wall pretty hard too. Anyway, Dale took him in for his car, and we left, I figured he needed some quiet time when he got home. They had a lot of visitors already, so I imagine they will have a few more on the weekend. Jackie was putting away kitchen stuff, and it was like being at the gift opening. They had not opened a lot of their wedding gifts, so she was all excited to open the boxes and look at the new things they have. It was a good day.
I had taken Glenn along, and eventually gave him a spray bottle and rag, and he wiped walls, as high as he could reach. I'm sure it is hard for him, he was always willing to dig in and get things done, so just sitting was boring. We had taken a computer (one of our many laptops), but I didn't plug it in right away, so it died. The kids didn't have the TV hooked up yet, so he amused himself by standing at the railing. At first he was going to stay home alone, but I talked him into coming, so that I didn't have to worry about him. It was a good thing, the house was a bit jumbled, but he was offering advise, and generally being himself, ribbing everyone who came by. Chris helped in the morning, but he and Aryn were going camping, so wanted to be away by noon or shortly after. He can get things done, and has moved enough times to have a lot of knowledge about packing. Johnny appreciated the help. Johnny's sister dropped in on her way to the lake, and had a quick look around. Then Grandpa and Grandma came and brought a cake to help with the move. The kids had borrowed Grandpa's truck, so they were anxious to see the new digs. It is a nice house, and a big yard. Jackie was pretty happy to find raspberries and rhubarb there, so she can pick some for nibbling.
We are expecting to have the little garage moved tomorrow, so we have to get it cleaned out. I had a go at it once, and have called in a few recruits to help. The fellow who is getting it wants to load it onto a trailer, so it could be interesting before this is done. It is the first step, and once the ball gets rolling, it will be exciting. It will be soon, I'm sure the building permits have been submitted, the builder wants to have the houses closed up by November, so there is a lot of planning going on. It still seems unreal, but will be so nice for Glenn to get around while he is in the chair.
Next will be Dale, but he won't have as much to move as Jackie and Johnny. He is working on the paper work, and feels a little unsure where he will be at the end of August, but he will not be in the city anymore, that he is sure of. He said that work was a bit hard this week, Murphy's law was a big factor, and nothing is more frustrating than that. He is looking forward to a bit of time in the tractor, as the summerfallow needs disking. I think he needs the alone time to let the rest of the action come into perspective. He will give Glenn something to argue about too, and that is always entertaining.
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, July 25, 2009
July 15- 25
Day 874-884
Counting the days of this journey is a habit, but when you look at the number, wow! It has been a long time since our lives changed. Oh well, change is change, and brings the challenges of life along with it. Who would have thought our so called life plan would have such a curve in it? I remember telling someone our path was pretty straight, but I sure had to eat those words! I was told just recently that we were passing our test of love with flying colours, but that is all dependent on the day. We certainly have rough ones, patience wears thin, and we definitely see too much of each other. All in all though, we have figured out a new routine, and are becoming more involved with life in general. The real worry of the first year has eased for me, and I find myself taking more time for myself. I actually finished a quilt top last week! That is a real accomplishment, believe me. Glenn was able to take care of himself well enough while I was sewing, and I have altered my habits enough to go at it in fits and starts, which was not my usual MO. Time heals or at least lets you adjust to all wounds.
Enough of the philosophy, we are getting closer to digging. Our house plans are finished, and the builder was putting together a cost sheet. When that is done, we'll sign a contract and give him some money, then the dig is on. It still seems unreal, and I can only dance around the idea of rooms and colours. Glenn and I are having a discussion about Blue vs. white laundry appliances. I really don't think Glenn cares, but he really can't resist arguing about it. That is so normal, I can't even tell you about it. Most women are on my side for the blue ones, and I think Glenn is a bit amazed, but is staunchly defending that white will never go out of style. (Like he cares about style. Remember the duct tape on the sandals?) We are a bit floored at the prices of major appliances, so the shopping is starting. I wonder if it is worth a trip to the States? I have no idea what that would entail. Any comments would be welcome.
Our Colin will be 27 tomorrow. Unbelievable. He was such a good baby, and a good kid all along. It is fun to watch him and Chelsey figure out their budget. Let me tell you, they are good at budgeting! They are flogging the system as much as it can be flogged in the summer to get the title through. I think we are having company tonight, and possibly tomorrow. The kids are coming out today to work on a few things around the yard, Chris wants to use the camper next weekend, so they will figure out the last problems, and pack a few more things into it. I think we will try to go while Jackie and Johnny are on vacation. They move next Friday, and start their holidays in August. I think we can do it! We have an old push lawn mower that needed some work to get it to run. Johnny started on it, then I got a bit curious, and talked to our neighbour who works on small engines. He suggested we clean the magnet on the fly wheel, which I did, and lo and behold, we got her running! I was shocked, as I have a history of hate for Briggs engines! They will use it and will save a bit of money not buying a new one.
Glenn has made a lot of improvement in his speech. He was cracking jokes at a family weiner roast, and I didn't have to translate. That is great, and really encouraging to us. Who knows where he will end up, but every little thing he gets back is a bonus.
'Til next time,
Louise
Counting the days of this journey is a habit, but when you look at the number, wow! It has been a long time since our lives changed. Oh well, change is change, and brings the challenges of life along with it. Who would have thought our so called life plan would have such a curve in it? I remember telling someone our path was pretty straight, but I sure had to eat those words! I was told just recently that we were passing our test of love with flying colours, but that is all dependent on the day. We certainly have rough ones, patience wears thin, and we definitely see too much of each other. All in all though, we have figured out a new routine, and are becoming more involved with life in general. The real worry of the first year has eased for me, and I find myself taking more time for myself. I actually finished a quilt top last week! That is a real accomplishment, believe me. Glenn was able to take care of himself well enough while I was sewing, and I have altered my habits enough to go at it in fits and starts, which was not my usual MO. Time heals or at least lets you adjust to all wounds.
Enough of the philosophy, we are getting closer to digging. Our house plans are finished, and the builder was putting together a cost sheet. When that is done, we'll sign a contract and give him some money, then the dig is on. It still seems unreal, and I can only dance around the idea of rooms and colours. Glenn and I are having a discussion about Blue vs. white laundry appliances. I really don't think Glenn cares, but he really can't resist arguing about it. That is so normal, I can't even tell you about it. Most women are on my side for the blue ones, and I think Glenn is a bit amazed, but is staunchly defending that white will never go out of style. (Like he cares about style. Remember the duct tape on the sandals?) We are a bit floored at the prices of major appliances, so the shopping is starting. I wonder if it is worth a trip to the States? I have no idea what that would entail. Any comments would be welcome.
Our Colin will be 27 tomorrow. Unbelievable. He was such a good baby, and a good kid all along. It is fun to watch him and Chelsey figure out their budget. Let me tell you, they are good at budgeting! They are flogging the system as much as it can be flogged in the summer to get the title through. I think we are having company tonight, and possibly tomorrow. The kids are coming out today to work on a few things around the yard, Chris wants to use the camper next weekend, so they will figure out the last problems, and pack a few more things into it. I think we will try to go while Jackie and Johnny are on vacation. They move next Friday, and start their holidays in August. I think we can do it! We have an old push lawn mower that needed some work to get it to run. Johnny started on it, then I got a bit curious, and talked to our neighbour who works on small engines. He suggested we clean the magnet on the fly wheel, which I did, and lo and behold, we got her running! I was shocked, as I have a history of hate for Briggs engines! They will use it and will save a bit of money not buying a new one.
Glenn has made a lot of improvement in his speech. He was cracking jokes at a family weiner roast, and I didn't have to translate. That is great, and really encouraging to us. Who knows where he will end up, but every little thing he gets back is a bonus.
'Til next time,
Louise
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
June 30 - July 14
Day 859 - 873
My, the time is flying by. We have been to another wedding and are planning to attend a 40th anniversary on the weekend. July is half over, and we haven't turned a sod yet, but with all the rain, perhaps that is OK.
Glenn is not getting as much stretching as he needs right at the moment, and he still is able to get his right hand open and moving, so I am thinking he is doing a fair bit on his own. He can move his ring finger, which has been a problem from the beginning, so that is progress. I would like him to stand more, but the weather is a bit against us. He is playing with computers more than he is standing, and I should help him more. There are too many things we should be doing! I need a bit more discipline! We are adjusting more all the time, I can understand him almost all the time now, and more and more people can too. That is a relief, not being able to talk would kill me!
We had a bar-b-que on Sunday, and lots of people came to say hi that day. It's funny that we had not had that much company over the past few weeks, then lots came on Sunday. It was a nice day, and we met Chelsey' parent for the first time. Colin and Chelsey ran the meal, we provided some of the side dishes, and enjoyed meeting them. It was good to have all the kids together.
Dale has now made an offer to buy a house in Edenwold. We are pretty sure he will buy it, and working on getting a mortage. He was told that the fellow he was renting from had sold the house, and it would be the new owners property at the end of September. Dale wasn't told to move, but he expected that would be the case, so he took up the opportunity when it came. Boy, all we talk about anymore is mortages, houses, renovations, yard care! I think my kids have grown up!
''Til next time,
Louise
My, the time is flying by. We have been to another wedding and are planning to attend a 40th anniversary on the weekend. July is half over, and we haven't turned a sod yet, but with all the rain, perhaps that is OK.
Glenn is not getting as much stretching as he needs right at the moment, and he still is able to get his right hand open and moving, so I am thinking he is doing a fair bit on his own. He can move his ring finger, which has been a problem from the beginning, so that is progress. I would like him to stand more, but the weather is a bit against us. He is playing with computers more than he is standing, and I should help him more. There are too many things we should be doing! I need a bit more discipline! We are adjusting more all the time, I can understand him almost all the time now, and more and more people can too. That is a relief, not being able to talk would kill me!
We had a bar-b-que on Sunday, and lots of people came to say hi that day. It's funny that we had not had that much company over the past few weeks, then lots came on Sunday. It was a nice day, and we met Chelsey' parent for the first time. Colin and Chelsey ran the meal, we provided some of the side dishes, and enjoyed meeting them. It was good to have all the kids together.
Dale has now made an offer to buy a house in Edenwold. We are pretty sure he will buy it, and working on getting a mortage. He was told that the fellow he was renting from had sold the house, and it would be the new owners property at the end of September. Dale wasn't told to move, but he expected that would be the case, so he took up the opportunity when it came. Boy, all we talk about anymore is mortages, houses, renovations, yard care! I think my kids have grown up!
''Til next time,
Louise
Monday, June 29, 2009
June 21 - 29
Day 858-866
We are doing better and better, Glenn is taking more interest in doing things and getting out of the house. He is still very limited in what he can do, but the more he does, the more he can do. It is good to see him push a bit more, that works better for both of us. We are currently wading through paper work and permits, trying to get the way prepared for construction, Colin and Chelsey more so than us. It is a bit of a boost to have them working toward a house, and we did need a boost!
Jackie and Johnny have been accepted in a bid on a house in Balgonie. They are working on the paper work too, but should be able to take possession the end of July. They were quite tired on Sunday night, it had been a big weekend for them. I hope it will go smoothly for them now. How exciting! I am just busy thinking houses these days.
Congratulations to Curtis and Gillian, I hope you still read this. Your gift is in the making, but may not get it until Christmas, the houses are distracting me a bit!
Also congratulations to Kelly, "School's out for summer!"
'Till next time,
Louise
We are doing better and better, Glenn is taking more interest in doing things and getting out of the house. He is still very limited in what he can do, but the more he does, the more he can do. It is good to see him push a bit more, that works better for both of us. We are currently wading through paper work and permits, trying to get the way prepared for construction, Colin and Chelsey more so than us. It is a bit of a boost to have them working toward a house, and we did need a boost!
Jackie and Johnny have been accepted in a bid on a house in Balgonie. They are working on the paper work too, but should be able to take possession the end of July. They were quite tired on Sunday night, it had been a big weekend for them. I hope it will go smoothly for them now. How exciting! I am just busy thinking houses these days.
Congratulations to Curtis and Gillian, I hope you still read this. Your gift is in the making, but may not get it until Christmas, the houses are distracting me a bit!
Also congratulations to Kelly, "School's out for summer!"
'Till next time,
Louise
Saturday, June 20, 2009
June 7 - 20
Day 844 -857
We went to the farm Show yesterday, and decided it was worth it, although the costs have sky rocketed! The outing was good for us, we have been together too much the last while, and Glenn said we should go out more. Chris came with us to help, and it really makes a difference. I'm running out of steam, and tend to take the easiest route, and that isn''t necessarily the best thing for Glenn. I can do what I can do, so I shall ask for more assistance, and we'll try a few more things.
Speaking of doing things, we bought a camper at an auction sale last weekend, so we are thinking of trying our hand at that. Again, I am sure I need help, so we will see what will work for the kids. This is a used (1977) tandem axle camper, with a toilet and shower, water heater, 4 burner stove and oven, fridge and an amazing amount of floor space. We got Glenn and the wheel chair into it, and had a bit of room to move around too. We have to check everything out, but it looks good, has been inside, and has a canopy attached. If nothing else, the kids will be able to use it over the summer months.
We are also wading our way through the permits and surveying of land. It is definitely a process. The survey crew comes on Monday, and as soon as the ink is dry on the title, I think Colin and Chelsey are going to call in the builders. They have measured out their spot, and nothing will have to be moved before they start to dig, and they will have to let Mom and Dad live on their property for a while. I'm sure we are missing something, but it will reveal itself at the time it needs to be addressed, so here we go!
Glenn's Mom had a serious problem with some kind of reaction. She ended up covered in an angry, itchy rash or hives. Her foot, where the problem started, swelled up and had a weeping sore on it. It was a horrifying mess, and the kicker is that she couldn't seem to get the right help from the health care professionals. She went to a GP 4 times, the hospital emergency twice, a foot specialist ( who suggested skin grafting, that is how bad it was getting!) and finally a dermatologist who prescribed prednozone (that's not the correct spelling). Needless to say she was beside herself, couldn't be reasoned with, and unfortunately, Glenn couldn't help her. The care givers at the home she stays were also getting to the end of their abilities, and we didn't know what to do for her. She was miserable, couldn't sleep, and getting totally paranoid and hard to handle. Someone suggested I phone the patients advocacy to see what response I could get through them. The medication started to help, and Home Care sent nurses who are experienced wound specialists to the home to help care for the sore. When I went back Monday, she was totally different. She still had red skin, but she said the itching had mostly stopped, and her foot looked 100% better. She was very apologetic about her behavior, and I told her anyone would be grouchy if they had to live through that ordeal. We have no idea what set this off, beside the blister on her foot, so hopefully she doesn't deal with it again. What a mess!
Needless to say, Glenn sort of had to watch from the sidelines, and we forgot to keep up with his therapy. I hope I can be a bit more disciplined this week, it shows when he doesn't do his stretches, and standing is really what helps keep the tone in check. I think I need a vacation!
'Til next time,
Louise
We went to the farm Show yesterday, and decided it was worth it, although the costs have sky rocketed! The outing was good for us, we have been together too much the last while, and Glenn said we should go out more. Chris came with us to help, and it really makes a difference. I'm running out of steam, and tend to take the easiest route, and that isn''t necessarily the best thing for Glenn. I can do what I can do, so I shall ask for more assistance, and we'll try a few more things.
Speaking of doing things, we bought a camper at an auction sale last weekend, so we are thinking of trying our hand at that. Again, I am sure I need help, so we will see what will work for the kids. This is a used (1977) tandem axle camper, with a toilet and shower, water heater, 4 burner stove and oven, fridge and an amazing amount of floor space. We got Glenn and the wheel chair into it, and had a bit of room to move around too. We have to check everything out, but it looks good, has been inside, and has a canopy attached. If nothing else, the kids will be able to use it over the summer months.
We are also wading our way through the permits and surveying of land. It is definitely a process. The survey crew comes on Monday, and as soon as the ink is dry on the title, I think Colin and Chelsey are going to call in the builders. They have measured out their spot, and nothing will have to be moved before they start to dig, and they will have to let Mom and Dad live on their property for a while. I'm sure we are missing something, but it will reveal itself at the time it needs to be addressed, so here we go!
Glenn's Mom had a serious problem with some kind of reaction. She ended up covered in an angry, itchy rash or hives. Her foot, where the problem started, swelled up and had a weeping sore on it. It was a horrifying mess, and the kicker is that she couldn't seem to get the right help from the health care professionals. She went to a GP 4 times, the hospital emergency twice, a foot specialist ( who suggested skin grafting, that is how bad it was getting!) and finally a dermatologist who prescribed prednozone (that's not the correct spelling). Needless to say she was beside herself, couldn't be reasoned with, and unfortunately, Glenn couldn't help her. The care givers at the home she stays were also getting to the end of their abilities, and we didn't know what to do for her. She was miserable, couldn't sleep, and getting totally paranoid and hard to handle. Someone suggested I phone the patients advocacy to see what response I could get through them. The medication started to help, and Home Care sent nurses who are experienced wound specialists to the home to help care for the sore. When I went back Monday, she was totally different. She still had red skin, but she said the itching had mostly stopped, and her foot looked 100% better. She was very apologetic about her behavior, and I told her anyone would be grouchy if they had to live through that ordeal. We have no idea what set this off, beside the blister on her foot, so hopefully she doesn't deal with it again. What a mess!
Needless to say, Glenn sort of had to watch from the sidelines, and we forgot to keep up with his therapy. I hope I can be a bit more disciplined this week, it shows when he doesn't do his stretches, and standing is really what helps keep the tone in check. I think I need a vacation!
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, June 6, 2009
May 20-June 6
Day 826 - 843
It's harder and harder to keep up with what is happening at home, so I confess I just post the most recent events, and I leave a lot out. You probably don't want to hear all that stuff any way, and it is just kind of day to day living, so you may not have the latest. The real reason is I just forget too much these days. It may get better, but I expect that is just the way it will be now!
Glenn has had some issues with his tone, and I think he has had a touch of flu or a cold. He had a good sleep last night, and that makes life easier. If he doesn't sleep well, I don't either. I was grumpy with him the other night, It was 3:00 or so, and he was complaining of chest pain. Well that woke me up in a hurry, so I sat him up and we sat there and tried to figure out what to do next. It was his stiff neck moving down into his shoulder and collar bone area, but one just is a bit touchy about heart conditions. After he had sat for a minute, he said it felt better. I asked if he wanted to sit in the recliner, but he opted for the bed. I propped him up and he fell back asleep. I took a bit more time to relax, and when 5:30 rolled around he wanted to get up. I told him I needed more than 2 hours of sleep if I was going to carry on , and other various grumbles. He went to the computer, and I snoozed again. After I got up I apologized for being grumpy, but he just laughed and asked what else was new! He had a bit of pain, but it eased as the day wore on, so he was sure it hadn't been a heart attack! That wasn't funny at 3:00 in the morning!
We have been doing other jobs to prepare for building. We've decided to subdivide a parcel for Colin and Chelsey, so that took a few phone calls to get the ball rolling. The internet wasn't working, so that took more phone calls to get back up! We have talked to a drafting firm about a house plan, and are having the buried cables in the yard marked. I have made a lot of calls. To top it off, the big computer has a faulty DVD drive, so I have been trying to get some warranty work, but haven't been able to get past their voice mail. I think I have to make another choice, but that is for another day.
Jackie is back safe and sound from her dental conference in Vegas. She is a bit of a nervous flier, and the flight back from Vegas to Calgary was rough. She didn't enjoy it, and complained the pilot must have been new guy, she thought they were going to crash land! The conference itself went well, and she enjoyed the experience.
The weather is still cold, and some complaints about frozen crops are starting to come in. I think gardeners are also discouraged. I didn't plan one this year, and now I'm glad. It would have frozen for sure, and I hate when that happens. The work is hard enough, but you don't mind when you are eating all that good food, and losing it at the start just sucks.
We'll keep you posted about the heart condition, and the building plans. Hopefully all will go smoothly, and we can relax a bit.
'Til next time,
Louise
It's harder and harder to keep up with what is happening at home, so I confess I just post the most recent events, and I leave a lot out. You probably don't want to hear all that stuff any way, and it is just kind of day to day living, so you may not have the latest. The real reason is I just forget too much these days. It may get better, but I expect that is just the way it will be now!
Glenn has had some issues with his tone, and I think he has had a touch of flu or a cold. He had a good sleep last night, and that makes life easier. If he doesn't sleep well, I don't either. I was grumpy with him the other night, It was 3:00 or so, and he was complaining of chest pain. Well that woke me up in a hurry, so I sat him up and we sat there and tried to figure out what to do next. It was his stiff neck moving down into his shoulder and collar bone area, but one just is a bit touchy about heart conditions. After he had sat for a minute, he said it felt better. I asked if he wanted to sit in the recliner, but he opted for the bed. I propped him up and he fell back asleep. I took a bit more time to relax, and when 5:30 rolled around he wanted to get up. I told him I needed more than 2 hours of sleep if I was going to carry on , and other various grumbles. He went to the computer, and I snoozed again. After I got up I apologized for being grumpy, but he just laughed and asked what else was new! He had a bit of pain, but it eased as the day wore on, so he was sure it hadn't been a heart attack! That wasn't funny at 3:00 in the morning!
We have been doing other jobs to prepare for building. We've decided to subdivide a parcel for Colin and Chelsey, so that took a few phone calls to get the ball rolling. The internet wasn't working, so that took more phone calls to get back up! We have talked to a drafting firm about a house plan, and are having the buried cables in the yard marked. I have made a lot of calls. To top it off, the big computer has a faulty DVD drive, so I have been trying to get some warranty work, but haven't been able to get past their voice mail. I think I have to make another choice, but that is for another day.
Jackie is back safe and sound from her dental conference in Vegas. She is a bit of a nervous flier, and the flight back from Vegas to Calgary was rough. She didn't enjoy it, and complained the pilot must have been new guy, she thought they were going to crash land! The conference itself went well, and she enjoyed the experience.
The weather is still cold, and some complaints about frozen crops are starting to come in. I think gardeners are also discouraged. I didn't plan one this year, and now I'm glad. It would have frozen for sure, and I hate when that happens. The work is hard enough, but you don't mind when you are eating all that good food, and losing it at the start just sucks.
We'll keep you posted about the heart condition, and the building plans. Hopefully all will go smoothly, and we can relax a bit.
'Til next time,
Louise
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
May 6 - 19
Day 813 - 826
Well, it has been an interesting couple of weeks on the Mitchell farm. We got the land rented last week, after some wheeling and dealing, and a bit of a close call with someone who wanted to rent from me, then sublease it to another farmer, for more money, of course. Well, this is a small community, and word got around pretty fast, so WOW, what was he thinking? It didn't happen, so we have a straight ahead lease with someone, and no middle man. Boy oh boy!
On another note, we are pretty sure that we will build a barrier free house, so Glenn has a bit more ease getting around from room to room. We don't know where yet, but probably on the farm somewhere. We don't really want to move off, Glenn is happy here in the summer, and hopefully he will get around more on his feet, so who knows? In the mean time I could have the features I've always wanted, and it will be easy to sell when we need to leave. The kids are in a bit of a bind too, the housing market is too inflated yet, and they sure don't want to pay $200,000.00 for a beat up, 30 year old house, when they can have one built for that much. The question is, where?
Nothing new as far as Glenn, except we go for an EKG tomorrow. I don't know what that will do, but the doctor booked it and we will go. The weather sure isn't giving him a break, and he is still house bound quite a bit. It should warm up more, but is taking it's time. I will admit that I am not missing the stress of the seeding, since the little seeds that are in the ground are in no hurry to come up, and that puts them at risk for rot, bugs, mould and other assorted damage.
We are invited to a wedding on the weekend, and the whole affair is in Balgonie and Edenwold. That is always nice, we don't have far to go home. I hope they get a nice day, they were looking forward to the green of May, and really, it isn't that green yet. The trees are starting to show a bit, but the saskatoons haven't bloomed yet, and they usually bloom when we are in the field seeding.
We also helped Wendy over the hill on Sunday. She turned 50 on Friday, so of course she needed a bit of a boost, but we all pitched in and had a good supper to boot! I got Glenn to post her picture on facebook. I haven't taken the time to figure that out yet, and he needs some projects.
We have a few appointments this week to keep us out of trouble, I'm gettng my hair done, and there's something on Friday. We are picking up more and more of the everyday things, and I'm noticing Glenn taking more interest and offering more opinions that he did last year. He has a bit of a time when he can't do or remember some things, but that is the way it is.
'Til next time,
Louise
Well, it has been an interesting couple of weeks on the Mitchell farm. We got the land rented last week, after some wheeling and dealing, and a bit of a close call with someone who wanted to rent from me, then sublease it to another farmer, for more money, of course. Well, this is a small community, and word got around pretty fast, so WOW, what was he thinking? It didn't happen, so we have a straight ahead lease with someone, and no middle man. Boy oh boy!
On another note, we are pretty sure that we will build a barrier free house, so Glenn has a bit more ease getting around from room to room. We don't know where yet, but probably on the farm somewhere. We don't really want to move off, Glenn is happy here in the summer, and hopefully he will get around more on his feet, so who knows? In the mean time I could have the features I've always wanted, and it will be easy to sell when we need to leave. The kids are in a bit of a bind too, the housing market is too inflated yet, and they sure don't want to pay $200,000.00 for a beat up, 30 year old house, when they can have one built for that much. The question is, where?
Nothing new as far as Glenn, except we go for an EKG tomorrow. I don't know what that will do, but the doctor booked it and we will go. The weather sure isn't giving him a break, and he is still house bound quite a bit. It should warm up more, but is taking it's time. I will admit that I am not missing the stress of the seeding, since the little seeds that are in the ground are in no hurry to come up, and that puts them at risk for rot, bugs, mould and other assorted damage.
We are invited to a wedding on the weekend, and the whole affair is in Balgonie and Edenwold. That is always nice, we don't have far to go home. I hope they get a nice day, they were looking forward to the green of May, and really, it isn't that green yet. The trees are starting to show a bit, but the saskatoons haven't bloomed yet, and they usually bloom when we are in the field seeding.
We also helped Wendy over the hill on Sunday. She turned 50 on Friday, so of course she needed a bit of a boost, but we all pitched in and had a good supper to boot! I got Glenn to post her picture on facebook. I haven't taken the time to figure that out yet, and he needs some projects.
We have a few appointments this week to keep us out of trouble, I'm gettng my hair done, and there's something on Friday. We are picking up more and more of the everyday things, and I'm noticing Glenn taking more interest and offering more opinions that he did last year. He has a bit of a time when he can't do or remember some things, but that is the way it is.
'Til next time,
Louise
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
April 19 - May 5
Day 796 -812
Time is flying by, I can't believe it has been so long since I last posted. We are taking care of business, and had a bit of a time with address changes for income tax purposes, but have filed and we will see what we will see. I make too many assumptions, and it does come back to bite me. I think I have everything covered, then along comes something else. The internet was busy on the 30th, and the next day ours didn't work at all. Glenn was without it for the weekend, and when I phoned yesterday, the nice young man got me to check out a few things. Turned out, my power source for the antennae was unplugged, so that was an easy, if somewhat embarrassing fix. We are back online, and happy about it. You don't realize how much you use the internet until you don't have it.
Glenn is getting along with his new heart medication quite well. We have an appointment for an EKG on the 15th, so we will see what that shows. We only have to go for INR's once a month now, so that is a nice thing, but I have to write down when we need to go, or I'll completely forget. He continues to improve, and uses his right hand more. His balance when he is standing is better too, so I'm content. He was on the deck, on Friday I think, standing up at the rail, and moving along a bit. I looked out to see how he was doing, and watched him fall over. He goes down quite softly, and was holding on to the railing. It turns out the dog had gas, and was passing some, which made Glenn laugh. When he laughs, his right leg sort of folds up, and over he went. How we have changed! I went out to help him up. He was flat on his back and fighting off the dog, who thought he needed his face cleaned. I asked him if he wanted to lie there for a while, but he really didn't think dog breath was a good thing for him. I got behind him and lifted, and he stood back up fairly easily. Don't worry, I'm careful about my back. He is helping to lift himself more all the time. He was outside long enough to get a sunburned head on Sunday. I had asked him if he wanted his hat, and he declined. That night he was feeling it, and laughed about his lack of hair protection. He forgets about the bald spot on the back of his head. He had a tick too, so we were both suffering from "tick-i-tis" for the rest of the night.
'Til next time,
Louise
Time is flying by, I can't believe it has been so long since I last posted. We are taking care of business, and had a bit of a time with address changes for income tax purposes, but have filed and we will see what we will see. I make too many assumptions, and it does come back to bite me. I think I have everything covered, then along comes something else. The internet was busy on the 30th, and the next day ours didn't work at all. Glenn was without it for the weekend, and when I phoned yesterday, the nice young man got me to check out a few things. Turned out, my power source for the antennae was unplugged, so that was an easy, if somewhat embarrassing fix. We are back online, and happy about it. You don't realize how much you use the internet until you don't have it.
Glenn is getting along with his new heart medication quite well. We have an appointment for an EKG on the 15th, so we will see what that shows. We only have to go for INR's once a month now, so that is a nice thing, but I have to write down when we need to go, or I'll completely forget. He continues to improve, and uses his right hand more. His balance when he is standing is better too, so I'm content. He was on the deck, on Friday I think, standing up at the rail, and moving along a bit. I looked out to see how he was doing, and watched him fall over. He goes down quite softly, and was holding on to the railing. It turns out the dog had gas, and was passing some, which made Glenn laugh. When he laughs, his right leg sort of folds up, and over he went. How we have changed! I went out to help him up. He was flat on his back and fighting off the dog, who thought he needed his face cleaned. I asked him if he wanted to lie there for a while, but he really didn't think dog breath was a good thing for him. I got behind him and lifted, and he stood back up fairly easily. Don't worry, I'm careful about my back. He is helping to lift himself more all the time. He was outside long enough to get a sunburned head on Sunday. I had asked him if he wanted his hat, and he declined. That night he was feeling it, and laughed about his lack of hair protection. He forgets about the bald spot on the back of his head. He had a tick too, so we were both suffering from "tick-i-tis" for the rest of the night.
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, April 18, 2009
April 5-18
Day 782 - 795
The time is coming when we have to make changes. Colin was over last night and pointed out a few things that I had also thought about, so over the summer we will see what transpires. Glenn isn't as fussy about moving any more, so I don't know what we'll do yet. I'm fighting this, and it is hard to face, I'll admit that.
Glenn went to the cardiologist, and we find that his left ventricle has become enlarged because of the arrhythmia and fibrillation. That means we are going to be going to the doctor more regularly too. His heart rate has been regulated by the new medication, but I don't know if his heart will recover, I didn't think to ask. We went to Regina in the rain the other day, and both of us were thinking that an attached garage would be nice! Day by day, we go along, and hope for the best.
Easter came and went, we had a busy weekend, but everything went well. We did lots of visiting, and ate lots of food. I watched the Passion on TV and was disturbed again by the whole thing, so that is a good thing. We need to be grounded by something, that seems to help me.
I'm still looking for a renter, but haven't been trying too hard, I'll admit. It seems to fall to the end of the day, and I don't have much steam left at the end of the day. I might be short of iron again, so I'll try to remember to take some over the next few days to see if that will help. I could have a bit of 'flu too, I seem to be a bit achy.
Happy belated birthday Marjorie, I was thinking of you, so we will do lunch or something soon.
'Til next time,
Louise
The time is coming when we have to make changes. Colin was over last night and pointed out a few things that I had also thought about, so over the summer we will see what transpires. Glenn isn't as fussy about moving any more, so I don't know what we'll do yet. I'm fighting this, and it is hard to face, I'll admit that.
Glenn went to the cardiologist, and we find that his left ventricle has become enlarged because of the arrhythmia and fibrillation. That means we are going to be going to the doctor more regularly too. His heart rate has been regulated by the new medication, but I don't know if his heart will recover, I didn't think to ask. We went to Regina in the rain the other day, and both of us were thinking that an attached garage would be nice! Day by day, we go along, and hope for the best.
Easter came and went, we had a busy weekend, but everything went well. We did lots of visiting, and ate lots of food. I watched the Passion on TV and was disturbed again by the whole thing, so that is a good thing. We need to be grounded by something, that seems to help me.
I'm still looking for a renter, but haven't been trying too hard, I'll admit. It seems to fall to the end of the day, and I don't have much steam left at the end of the day. I might be short of iron again, so I'll try to remember to take some over the next few days to see if that will help. I could have a bit of 'flu too, I seem to be a bit achy.
Happy belated birthday Marjorie, I was thinking of you, so we will do lunch or something soon.
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, April 4, 2009
March 18 - April 4
Day 764 - 781
The crows have been back for a couple of weeks now, but it is still going to -10 at night. The snow is slowly disappearing, but there won't be much run off. My bird feeder is also attracting junkos, but I haven't seen any robins yet. It is cold.
We went to the cardiologist on Tuesday of this week, and he has put Glenn on a heart drug which will slow it's beating and regulate the arrhythmia. We went to the General Hospital first, then he sent us to his office, and they did an ultrasound on Glenn's heart. It was skipping around at the time, so I'm interested to hear what he has to say. We are booked for an EKG in May, so I feel that they are checking into this a bit more, although really the horse has left the barn, so to speak.
I also talked to a Realtor about a new building of condos that is going up behind the West Landing Mall, and was a bit disappointed that they don't have any on the ground floor. Glenn pointed out immediately that we would not be able to leave the building in case of a fire, because the first floor is above the parking garage, and not at ground level. I think that they shut elevators down as soon as an alarm sounds, so this is a problem. We were also shown a few other ones on the east side of the city, but the bathrooms were all too small, and not usable for Glenn and the chair. This may take more time than I thought, but we are still in the talking stages anyway.
We are gearing up for a family get together on the Easter weekend, so that is taking up some time too. I haven't seen much of the kids lately, so I assume all is well in their worlds. Wendy has been out to help put together another powerpoint, but we haven't visited many people lately. The weather has been miserable, and we have been out and about with therapy and Doctor appointments, so I don't feel like going out much at the end of the day or week for that matter. The kids were going to the bar to watch one of our friends play, and wondered if we wanted to go. Glenn was pretty relaxed in his recliner, and I had had a busy week, so we declined. I hope they had fun.
There's lots more to say, but it is only day to day stuff, and I'm sure you don't want or need to hear that. I want to wish everyone a Happy Easter, ask that you keep us in your prayers, we are still in need of them, but then who isn't?
'Til next time,
Louise
The crows have been back for a couple of weeks now, but it is still going to -10 at night. The snow is slowly disappearing, but there won't be much run off. My bird feeder is also attracting junkos, but I haven't seen any robins yet. It is cold.
We went to the cardiologist on Tuesday of this week, and he has put Glenn on a heart drug which will slow it's beating and regulate the arrhythmia. We went to the General Hospital first, then he sent us to his office, and they did an ultrasound on Glenn's heart. It was skipping around at the time, so I'm interested to hear what he has to say. We are booked for an EKG in May, so I feel that they are checking into this a bit more, although really the horse has left the barn, so to speak.
I also talked to a Realtor about a new building of condos that is going up behind the West Landing Mall, and was a bit disappointed that they don't have any on the ground floor. Glenn pointed out immediately that we would not be able to leave the building in case of a fire, because the first floor is above the parking garage, and not at ground level. I think that they shut elevators down as soon as an alarm sounds, so this is a problem. We were also shown a few other ones on the east side of the city, but the bathrooms were all too small, and not usable for Glenn and the chair. This may take more time than I thought, but we are still in the talking stages anyway.
We are gearing up for a family get together on the Easter weekend, so that is taking up some time too. I haven't seen much of the kids lately, so I assume all is well in their worlds. Wendy has been out to help put together another powerpoint, but we haven't visited many people lately. The weather has been miserable, and we have been out and about with therapy and Doctor appointments, so I don't feel like going out much at the end of the day or week for that matter. The kids were going to the bar to watch one of our friends play, and wondered if we wanted to go. Glenn was pretty relaxed in his recliner, and I had had a busy week, so we declined. I hope they had fun.
There's lots more to say, but it is only day to day stuff, and I'm sure you don't want or need to hear that. I want to wish everyone a Happy Easter, ask that you keep us in your prayers, we are still in need of them, but then who isn't?
'Til next time,
Louise
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
March 11-17
Day 757-763
There's no Irish that I know of in our family, but Happy St. Patrick's Day to those of you who have! We were loaded down with birthday cake on the weekend, but will have a break for now. Glenn scared me a bit on Sunday, as I went for cake at Mom's and left him home. He got his foot stuck between the front wheel of the chair and the foot pedal, and was squashing his ankle. He couldn't get out, and phoned Mom's house for me. I couldn't understand what the problem was, he just kept saying ouch. I phoned a neighbour to check it out as I was 1/2 hour away, and wasn't sure how serious his problem was. Turned out he had gotten free by the time they got there, so it wasn't bad. He has a bit of a bruise on his ankle though. I just never know.
The weather was nice, but it is cold again today. The snow is going fast, so there isn't much out there. It doesn't look like there will be much run off, unless we have a big storm. The sloughs and dugouts might be low this summer. That is a problem for people who use reservoirs for water supply, but we'll see what happens.
We looked at the photos from Jackie and Johnny's wedding (378 to choose from) and were impressed with how they turned out. They will have a hard time choosing! Colin and Chelsey are doing a bit of shopping and have a few decisions like colours made. She has been looking for a dress too, but so far hasn't found "it". That will be here before we know it too.
I'm looking for a renter for the land, the boys were not interested this year. It takes more than they thought it would, so they are just as happy working for money instead. I'm OK with that, as the pressure was more than I really wanted, and am going to be able to just go about a bit of yard work this spring, and maybe work on the house too. I told the sewing ladies that I would be happy to have them for coffee on my deck if they need a break during seeding! I'm OK with that too!
'Til next time,
Louise
There's no Irish that I know of in our family, but Happy St. Patrick's Day to those of you who have! We were loaded down with birthday cake on the weekend, but will have a break for now. Glenn scared me a bit on Sunday, as I went for cake at Mom's and left him home. He got his foot stuck between the front wheel of the chair and the foot pedal, and was squashing his ankle. He couldn't get out, and phoned Mom's house for me. I couldn't understand what the problem was, he just kept saying ouch. I phoned a neighbour to check it out as I was 1/2 hour away, and wasn't sure how serious his problem was. Turned out he had gotten free by the time they got there, so it wasn't bad. He has a bit of a bruise on his ankle though. I just never know.
The weather was nice, but it is cold again today. The snow is going fast, so there isn't much out there. It doesn't look like there will be much run off, unless we have a big storm. The sloughs and dugouts might be low this summer. That is a problem for people who use reservoirs for water supply, but we'll see what happens.
We looked at the photos from Jackie and Johnny's wedding (378 to choose from) and were impressed with how they turned out. They will have a hard time choosing! Colin and Chelsey are doing a bit of shopping and have a few decisions like colours made. She has been looking for a dress too, but so far hasn't found "it". That will be here before we know it too.
I'm looking for a renter for the land, the boys were not interested this year. It takes more than they thought it would, so they are just as happy working for money instead. I'm OK with that, as the pressure was more than I really wanted, and am going to be able to just go about a bit of yard work this spring, and maybe work on the house too. I told the sewing ladies that I would be happy to have them for coffee on my deck if they need a break during seeding! I'm OK with that too!
'Til next time,
Louise
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
March 1-10
Day 747-756
The winter is holding out, and it is bitterly cold again this week. It is a bit disappointing after the break we had last week, but it will warm up soon. It sure keeps us housebound though. Glenn had a good day yesterday in that he was standing up a lot. I asked him why, and he said it was easy for some reason. I came into the living room once and he was standing up with the walker. He had done it himself, and even had his right hand on the handle! We shortened the legs a bit, and he said that it was better, because he put all his weight on his feet, instead of some on his arms. His balance is getting better too. He has been working on standing without holding on to anything, and says he is doing better. I'm happy to see him making such efforts to stand up. The next thing will be walking! I think he has had a change of heart as far as the wheel chair is concerned, and am doing all I can to help him exercise. The stretching is a constant I forget about, but am doing better than I was before, and he seems to be less tight too. His toe isn't completely healed, but we are working on it too. Sometimes old remedies are the way to go, so I rub it every morning and night, if I remember, and hopefully the spot will disappear soon. We have also avoided the really bad 'flus that have been going around, so that is a blessing.
We had birthday cake for Dale and Jackie the past couple of weeks, and are due to see Mom and Chelsey get older next week. Mom and Dad are doing well, and are still on the farm, with no intention of moving as far as we can tell. Dad drives a bit less than he used to, and catches rides if he can, so that is good and bad. They aren't house bound by any means, and he mostly avoids driving at night. He is looking forward to working more in his shop come spring.
Colin is back from his road tour, and said they did well. It was a long way to go in a week, and he went without a lot of sleep, but all in all it was a good experience. The weather was bad through the mountains, so that was a bit tense. He says he has lots of stories!
'Til next time,
Louise
The winter is holding out, and it is bitterly cold again this week. It is a bit disappointing after the break we had last week, but it will warm up soon. It sure keeps us housebound though. Glenn had a good day yesterday in that he was standing up a lot. I asked him why, and he said it was easy for some reason. I came into the living room once and he was standing up with the walker. He had done it himself, and even had his right hand on the handle! We shortened the legs a bit, and he said that it was better, because he put all his weight on his feet, instead of some on his arms. His balance is getting better too. He has been working on standing without holding on to anything, and says he is doing better. I'm happy to see him making such efforts to stand up. The next thing will be walking! I think he has had a change of heart as far as the wheel chair is concerned, and am doing all I can to help him exercise. The stretching is a constant I forget about, but am doing better than I was before, and he seems to be less tight too. His toe isn't completely healed, but we are working on it too. Sometimes old remedies are the way to go, so I rub it every morning and night, if I remember, and hopefully the spot will disappear soon. We have also avoided the really bad 'flus that have been going around, so that is a blessing.
We had birthday cake for Dale and Jackie the past couple of weeks, and are due to see Mom and Chelsey get older next week. Mom and Dad are doing well, and are still on the farm, with no intention of moving as far as we can tell. Dad drives a bit less than he used to, and catches rides if he can, so that is good and bad. They aren't house bound by any means, and he mostly avoids driving at night. He is looking forward to working more in his shop come spring.
Colin is back from his road tour, and said they did well. It was a long way to go in a week, and he went without a lot of sleep, but all in all it was a good experience. The weather was bad through the mountains, so that was a bit tense. He says he has lots of stories!
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, February 28, 2009
February 15-28
Day 733-746
I'm getting a bit slack when it come to posting right now, but not much is changing. We are waiting for spring to come, and it sure is taking it's time. This past week has been cold! Tomorrow is March, so perhaps the weather will ease. It is nice to have more daylight, that helps a person's disposition.
Glenn spent a bit of time on the floor, the past 2 Saturdays he slid in the bathroom and had to call me for help back into his chair. That concerned me enough to ask him if I should find someone to be with him on those days. He doesn't think so, and has since started doing a few more stands and sits while I am there. He was sitting around too much, and perhaps has a bit of a cold, which always affects his tone. He didn't get hurt, but he does need to be careful. We are going to find a private clinic for more physio, and when the weather does finally break, he can go out more. He has really been stuck in the house this winter. I started looking at condos in the city, and now he says he doesn't know if he wants to move! I never know what to expect. The future will reveal itself, I know, but in the mean time I am feeling a bit lost. What to do?
I'm looking for a renter for the land this year. The boys found it too much, and so did I. Now the prices are dropping, so who needs that? I don't, so we will let someone else fight the system and just take care of the day to day things that are given to us. Perhaps we'll get a few more things done around the yards. It will be nice to just watch the seasons change and sit on the deck with a coffee if we feel like it.
'Til next time,
Louise
I'm getting a bit slack when it come to posting right now, but not much is changing. We are waiting for spring to come, and it sure is taking it's time. This past week has been cold! Tomorrow is March, so perhaps the weather will ease. It is nice to have more daylight, that helps a person's disposition.
Glenn spent a bit of time on the floor, the past 2 Saturdays he slid in the bathroom and had to call me for help back into his chair. That concerned me enough to ask him if I should find someone to be with him on those days. He doesn't think so, and has since started doing a few more stands and sits while I am there. He was sitting around too much, and perhaps has a bit of a cold, which always affects his tone. He didn't get hurt, but he does need to be careful. We are going to find a private clinic for more physio, and when the weather does finally break, he can go out more. He has really been stuck in the house this winter. I started looking at condos in the city, and now he says he doesn't know if he wants to move! I never know what to expect. The future will reveal itself, I know, but in the mean time I am feeling a bit lost. What to do?
I'm looking for a renter for the land this year. The boys found it too much, and so did I. Now the prices are dropping, so who needs that? I don't, so we will let someone else fight the system and just take care of the day to day things that are given to us. Perhaps we'll get a few more things done around the yards. It will be nice to just watch the seasons change and sit on the deck with a coffee if we feel like it.
'Til next time,
Louise
Saturday, February 14, 2009
February 4-14
Day 728-738
I'm out a few days, yesterday was the 2nd anniversary, if you can call it that, of Glenn's stroke, so I should be at 730 today. I'll fix that next time. He thought about it, and said he didn't know if he would be getting any better, but I still believe we have a fair bit of work ahead of us to get him more mobile. The hospital hasn't been doing much more than stretching him, so I think I'll try a private clinic. Nerves take a long time to heal, but more research and therapy is finding that the brain can and does "rewire" itself, so there is still hope as far as I'm concerned. He is looking for something to do, though, so spring can't come fast enough.
Last weekend was beautiful. Jackie and Johnny were one of the happiest couples I've seen in a while. They were both nervous on Friday night, but Saturday, they glowed. The weather was fine, the church was full and beautiful, the music was wonderful, and we had a great time. We forgot a few pieces of equipment, (the walker for Glenn and a change of clothes for me!) but otherwise we did well. Lots of willing hands made the day go by smoothly for us, and Glenn stayed at the dance until 1:00 in the morning. He may have stayed longer if I had remembered the walker, but his poor butt couldn't take anymore, so we went to the hotel. The hotel had a very well thought out accessible room, so I would stay there again. The kids left for Vegas on Sunday, so they still have to open their gifts. They were planning to do it Saturday night, but were having so much fun, they didn't want to stop the music. They have time now, and since Monday is also a holiday, they will have a bit of a breather before going back to work. I had a strange habit of falling asleep everytime I sat on the couch this week! I think I may have been a bit tired out! Everything was good, and I am anxious to see the pictures. My family had lots of nice ones. They came on Sunday to help eat some leftovers, and to visit before going home. Digital cameras are great, everyone downloaded their pictures onto my computer, so I already have a nice assortment of snapshots.
Well, it's back to life as normal now, and I am at work. It promises to be a quiet day. Jackie and Johnny should get home today, so we may be visiting later. Dale is moving to another apartment, and had a tough week. His work is slow though, so he should manage to move now without having the pressure to get out on the last day. Colin and Chelsey were watching the proceedings closely on Saturday, and I asked her if she was getting any ideas, and she said yes. That wedding will be here before we know it too.
'Til next time,
Louise
I'm out a few days, yesterday was the 2nd anniversary, if you can call it that, of Glenn's stroke, so I should be at 730 today. I'll fix that next time. He thought about it, and said he didn't know if he would be getting any better, but I still believe we have a fair bit of work ahead of us to get him more mobile. The hospital hasn't been doing much more than stretching him, so I think I'll try a private clinic. Nerves take a long time to heal, but more research and therapy is finding that the brain can and does "rewire" itself, so there is still hope as far as I'm concerned. He is looking for something to do, though, so spring can't come fast enough.
Last weekend was beautiful. Jackie and Johnny were one of the happiest couples I've seen in a while. They were both nervous on Friday night, but Saturday, they glowed. The weather was fine, the church was full and beautiful, the music was wonderful, and we had a great time. We forgot a few pieces of equipment, (the walker for Glenn and a change of clothes for me!) but otherwise we did well. Lots of willing hands made the day go by smoothly for us, and Glenn stayed at the dance until 1:00 in the morning. He may have stayed longer if I had remembered the walker, but his poor butt couldn't take anymore, so we went to the hotel. The hotel had a very well thought out accessible room, so I would stay there again. The kids left for Vegas on Sunday, so they still have to open their gifts. They were planning to do it Saturday night, but were having so much fun, they didn't want to stop the music. They have time now, and since Monday is also a holiday, they will have a bit of a breather before going back to work. I had a strange habit of falling asleep everytime I sat on the couch this week! I think I may have been a bit tired out! Everything was good, and I am anxious to see the pictures. My family had lots of nice ones. They came on Sunday to help eat some leftovers, and to visit before going home. Digital cameras are great, everyone downloaded their pictures onto my computer, so I already have a nice assortment of snapshots.
Well, it's back to life as normal now, and I am at work. It promises to be a quiet day. Jackie and Johnny should get home today, so we may be visiting later. Dale is moving to another apartment, and had a tough week. His work is slow though, so he should manage to move now without having the pressure to get out on the last day. Colin and Chelsey were watching the proceedings closely on Saturday, and I asked her if she was getting any ideas, and she said yes. That wedding will be here before we know it too.
'Til next time,
Louise
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
January 25-Feb 3
Day 718-727
Four sleeps to go. I don't know what we are forgetting, but we don't have long to wait to find out! The kids are really helping out, Wendy is on holidays, so she has been out a few times to help with the Powerpoint, and I think I have the food ordered that we will need. Now we just have to do it. Glenn is being slightly neglected in this busy time, but he is also working on the PowerPoint, so he is occupied. Jackie phones pretty well everyday, and feels like she is forgetting something too. She works tomorrow, then is off for a week. Now we are hoping the weather will hold. I said to a neighbour that we are watching the Weather Channel for some reason. We will wake up Saturday morning and see how it will be, and the Weather Channel is no help really. I think that we will have a blast, and hope that everyone who comes has a good time. They are so excited. They have been going to showers, and the stag and stagette were this weekend, so now it's time for the big show. Next week will be a slow one, as we will have to recover!
Truly, I've fretted about a few things, but that is a useless thing to do. I have to take my cues from Glenn, and carry on as usual. Everyone is willing to help if we ask, and I have a bit of trouble remembering to do that. I don't have to do everything myself, and that is just pride. Once I get my head straight, and let people do things, it is a relief. Glenn needs the interaction, as do our friends. It is a strange place to be. I can't really explain it. People offer help, and I have a hard time thinking of what I need help with. I guess it is being too independent or protective or something. I'm working on it.
So, this will be the last post before the wedding, pray for us as we celebrate.
'til next time,
Louise
Four sleeps to go. I don't know what we are forgetting, but we don't have long to wait to find out! The kids are really helping out, Wendy is on holidays, so she has been out a few times to help with the Powerpoint, and I think I have the food ordered that we will need. Now we just have to do it. Glenn is being slightly neglected in this busy time, but he is also working on the PowerPoint, so he is occupied. Jackie phones pretty well everyday, and feels like she is forgetting something too. She works tomorrow, then is off for a week. Now we are hoping the weather will hold. I said to a neighbour that we are watching the Weather Channel for some reason. We will wake up Saturday morning and see how it will be, and the Weather Channel is no help really. I think that we will have a blast, and hope that everyone who comes has a good time. They are so excited. They have been going to showers, and the stag and stagette were this weekend, so now it's time for the big show. Next week will be a slow one, as we will have to recover!
Truly, I've fretted about a few things, but that is a useless thing to do. I have to take my cues from Glenn, and carry on as usual. Everyone is willing to help if we ask, and I have a bit of trouble remembering to do that. I don't have to do everything myself, and that is just pride. Once I get my head straight, and let people do things, it is a relief. Glenn needs the interaction, as do our friends. It is a strange place to be. I can't really explain it. People offer help, and I have a hard time thinking of what I need help with. I guess it is being too independent or protective or something. I'm working on it.
So, this will be the last post before the wedding, pray for us as we celebrate.
'til next time,
Louise
Saturday, January 24, 2009
January 4-24
Day 698-717
We are busy. Each weekend is booked for a pre-wedding event, and there are only 2 weeks to go. Everything we can foresee is taken care of, and we will just have to think on our feet if something major happens in the next while. I'm still fretting the call for the barley will come right before the wedding, but that is something I can do nothing about until it happens.
Glenn is staying by himself quite a bit for now, as I am being the "Mother of the Bride" and attending the showers. We have had a few extra "sewing ladies" days to create hangings for the couples we know, and that too leaves Glenn alone. He is busy on the computers, and was looking at another laptop, I think, (everything is on sale!) but I've talked him out of it for now. He had a botox clinic yesterday, and the doctor injected his right calf muscle and the control for his toes. He had developed a pressure sore on his big toe, so in an effort to prevent that , they are trying to relax those muscles that cause your toes to point and curl. We'll see in a few days if it will work. The sore is healing up nicely, and didn't get too big before we stopped using the AFO (his foot brace) That is the first sore he has developed though, so we have been careful, and lucky.
Wendy and I are working on a power point for Jackie and Johnny, and it has been a great trip down memory lane. The Hallowe'en costumes are great, and will get a spot in the production. We reeceived a nice assortment from Johnny's side too, so that makes it easier to balance. Now all we need is songs, and they are starting to come. Wendy had to kick start me yesterday, but I think I'll be OK now.
We are attending a family shower tomorrow, and I hope the weather stays clear. It is cold today, but there isn't much wind. After last week, it is hard not to grumble about it turning cold again, but it is January in Saskatchewan. I put ski pants on Glenn when we go out now, and that helps to keep "board man" away. Glenn said board man is an unwelcome guest, and I have to agree with that!
I'm sure I was going to post more, but I've gone blank, so
'til next time,
Louise
We are busy. Each weekend is booked for a pre-wedding event, and there are only 2 weeks to go. Everything we can foresee is taken care of, and we will just have to think on our feet if something major happens in the next while. I'm still fretting the call for the barley will come right before the wedding, but that is something I can do nothing about until it happens.
Glenn is staying by himself quite a bit for now, as I am being the "Mother of the Bride" and attending the showers. We have had a few extra "sewing ladies" days to create hangings for the couples we know, and that too leaves Glenn alone. He is busy on the computers, and was looking at another laptop, I think, (everything is on sale!) but I've talked him out of it for now. He had a botox clinic yesterday, and the doctor injected his right calf muscle and the control for his toes. He had developed a pressure sore on his big toe, so in an effort to prevent that , they are trying to relax those muscles that cause your toes to point and curl. We'll see in a few days if it will work. The sore is healing up nicely, and didn't get too big before we stopped using the AFO (his foot brace) That is the first sore he has developed though, so we have been careful, and lucky.
Wendy and I are working on a power point for Jackie and Johnny, and it has been a great trip down memory lane. The Hallowe'en costumes are great, and will get a spot in the production. We reeceived a nice assortment from Johnny's side too, so that makes it easier to balance. Now all we need is songs, and they are starting to come. Wendy had to kick start me yesterday, but I think I'll be OK now.
We are attending a family shower tomorrow, and I hope the weather stays clear. It is cold today, but there isn't much wind. After last week, it is hard not to grumble about it turning cold again, but it is January in Saskatchewan. I put ski pants on Glenn when we go out now, and that helps to keep "board man" away. Glenn said board man is an unwelcome guest, and I have to agree with that!
I'm sure I was going to post more, but I've gone blank, so
'til next time,
Louise
Saturday, January 3, 2009
December 28-January 3
Day 691-697
Happy New Year!
The wedding plans are taking over in the Mitchell house. Jackie is starting to fret about a few things, and I told her to apply the KISS rule as much as possible (Keep It Simple Stupid). I have a few concerns, but only time and experience will tell. I hope the weather is nicer, that we don't have the 'flu, etc. etc. I am calling on friends and family to help, because reality is that Glenn may not be able to stay for the whole event, and that means I will need to leave as well. We'll see.
Colin and Chelsey have also picked a day, June 5, 2010. I smiled when they told me, as the waiting to plan is not really an option for either of them. They are very efficient. Their holiday starts on Thursday, so they have gone tanning a few times, and are probably all packed and ready. I hope they have a great experience. Glenn is still trying to get Chelsey to take him along instead of Colin, but really, I don't think it's going to happen!
We really relaxed, and stayed home the last two weeks. I'm running out of groceries, but it has been a much needed break. The kids came out for New Years Eve, and I was encouraged to try out the Wii. I'm not very good, but it is fun. We got Glenn playing one of the games too, and he did surprisingly well. He stayed in bed until 10:00 the next morning, so that is a first! It was good for him to stay up a bit later than usual.
We'll keep you posted as the wedding draws near.
'Til next time,
Louise
Happy New Year!
The wedding plans are taking over in the Mitchell house. Jackie is starting to fret about a few things, and I told her to apply the KISS rule as much as possible (Keep It Simple Stupid). I have a few concerns, but only time and experience will tell. I hope the weather is nicer, that we don't have the 'flu, etc. etc. I am calling on friends and family to help, because reality is that Glenn may not be able to stay for the whole event, and that means I will need to leave as well. We'll see.
Colin and Chelsey have also picked a day, June 5, 2010. I smiled when they told me, as the waiting to plan is not really an option for either of them. They are very efficient. Their holiday starts on Thursday, so they have gone tanning a few times, and are probably all packed and ready. I hope they have a great experience. Glenn is still trying to get Chelsey to take him along instead of Colin, but really, I don't think it's going to happen!
We really relaxed, and stayed home the last two weeks. I'm running out of groceries, but it has been a much needed break. The kids came out for New Years Eve, and I was encouraged to try out the Wii. I'm not very good, but it is fun. We got Glenn playing one of the games too, and he did surprisingly well. He stayed in bed until 10:00 the next morning, so that is a first! It was good for him to stay up a bit later than usual.
We'll keep you posted as the wedding draws near.
'Til next time,
Louise
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