The Return of Lucie-isms

Just another winter week

2010-01-24T19:04:00.002-07:00

Kind of a BLAH week, nothing too exciting. Did have a fun inter-club night with several other Progress Clubs on Wednesday, had an interesting speaker talking about different kinds of web communications like Facebook, Twitter, etc. A little over my head, but interesting none the less. Nasty weather this weekend so stayed inside. Watched a video I got at a garage sale years ago - Shakespear's "Henry V". Took a while to get tuned into the old English phrasing, but I like historical dramas and this was a good one. Leaving for Edmonton tomorrow for provincial staff meeting, maybe get to know what we might expect from our department's new Minister. I'm not driving, so won't be doing any visiting.

It's a new decade

2010-01-17T16:41:00.009-07:00

Another weekend almost gone. Got quite a bit done today and am now watching Little Miss Marker on TV. One of those old movies I never got around to watching.
Still recuperating from 3-day business trip to Lethbridge, which was stressful and exhausting. Of course there had to be some "retail therapy". I bought these ridiculously outrageous boots which I can only wear if I don't have to be on my feet longer than 20 minutes. I'll wear them a few times, and if they cause too much damage, will probably give them to Crystal next trip. She and I, surprisingly, have similar taste in footwear, but I have to live vicariously through her since my back won't tolerate higher than 2-inch heels.

There's a jewellry store in the Parkland Mall in Lethbridge that I like to check out when I travel there. It's called Metalsmiths, and has unique and reasonably priced silver. They have a small display case with 70% off items, and this time I got a really different amber ring.

Just wanted to see if I still remembered how to post. A good friend of mine talked me into starting it up again.

Oct. 13, Walk to Okanagon Lake

2009-10-13T22:20:00.004-06:00

The weather is supposed to get worse, so I decided check out the lake that's about a mile from the hotel, a half-hour walk at a brisk pace. Had to keep moving to stay warm. I was really glad for the new gloves I bought at Winners. A lot of trees have green leaves here, but they won't last much longer. It was kind of dark and dreary, but I took a few pictures anyway.

On my way back from "Fatboys" for dinner, I ran into a few Progress friends who arrived early like I did, had a few drinks, and made plans for sight-seeing tomorrow. Convention officially started today but only for the Executive, and tomorrow night is the first theme party "Barefoot Cowboys and Cowgirls". Thursday is meetings, seminars, Lunch with keynote speaker, Wine-tasting excursion, Dogie-do dinner & hoedown, then hospitality suite with an "International" theme.

Kelowna, Oct. 11-12

2009-10-13T21:24:00.006-06:00

Arrived late Sunday night, got upgraded to Superior room with sittting area and walk-out balcony. Nice view of the foothills. Weather cooler than I expected, but still some green leaves on the trees Glad I brought my light winter jacket. Found a grocery store nearby, filled fridge with pate, cherry tomatoes, grapes, juice, apples - nice healthy snacks. Then there's the chocolate, croissants, cookies in the cupboard. Oh well.

There's a strip mall right beside the hotel, got some really good stuff at Winners. Maybe got a little carried away, but it was all at one-third the original ticket price.

(L>R ) White peasant blouse with black trim, Purple shirt with shirred trim, black knit with lace shounders & back (Top) Leopard print pleated top. Not shown: soft red leather gloves and a beautiful pair of black Max Studio "skinny pants". Most of these items will be put to good use at our convention theme parties.

2009-06-29T17:34:00.002-06:00

Greetings. I'm Back.
Mom arrived Monday 22nd, and Aline arrived from Toronto on Saturday. We're enjoying our time together, and I should be able to start posting pictures soon.

Weather's good so far. Finally got my bedding plants in yesterday.

I'm off until July 22nd for a much-needed long vacation to re-charge and get in lots of R&R.

Hope you haven't all given up on me.

2009-04-26T21:01:00.002-06:00

Got my laptop back, I really missed it.
Had a wonderful visit with Joe & Berta Saturday, we did the Garlic Festival. Joe even had garlic beer - YUK! Had just enough time to get caught up, then I moved on to the Coast Plaza as I had early morning meetings Monday.
Had to come home from work early Thursday, been getting these wierd migranes, not particularly painful but completely disoriented, confused, and inability to concentrate on my work. My co-worker was worried I was having a mini-stroke, so I had to assure her later that I have already been checked out and diagnosed. I took Friday off sick-day so I will be completely rested for work in the new week.
Shirley and I went to see Slumdog Millionaire Saturday, great movie. I highly recommend it. We are so lucky to be Canadian with all the advantages that we sometimes take for granted.
And thats all for now, folks.

Elephants & Schoolrooms

2009-04-11T21:39:00.002-06:00

My friend and fellow Progressian, Carlos Pardo and his wife Cindy, decided to take a trip of a lifetime - an African safari. They happened to visit a school which was no more than 4 walls, a roof, and dirt floor. That was about 5 years ago, and since then they have started a charitable foundation (http://www.bridgethegaptanzania.com/) and make the trek each year to deliver container loads of school supplies for the kids. Their story and pictures made such an impression on us sthat each Progress Club has donated about $500 to the cause. It got me to thinking that I am due for my trip-of-a-lifetime. Wouldn't an African safari be awsome.

So what did this have to do with baby elephants, you might ask? Well, the also visited a refuge for orphaned baby elephants (http://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/) and the slide show of the little ones being cared for by dedicated volunteers was so touching. Of course, I had to adopt one. I'll get a picture of him/her that I can post in my office. I did this in memory of Malti who died at the Calgary Zoo last year. Cindy is taking care of the transaction for me, and will bring back personal pictures. I'll post it when available.

I HATE MORNINGS!!!

2009-04-09T08:31:00.003-06:00

I'm having a crappy, pissy, frustrating morning. First my clock/radio/CD player doesn't wake me up, so I'm running late. It's wierd, it's been coming on but appears to be set for am instead of fm so there's just a soft hiss. WTF. Rush downstairs to feed cats (a priority in our house) and grab a glass of oj. Run upstairs with juice, place on dresser, spill all over dresser. #%%@. Run back downstairs for more juice, close bedroom door which actually slams - no doubt making Al and LeeAnne jump in their beds since they work late, sleep late. Put on purple hoodie, which I haven't worn more than twice since I bought it last fall at an "Optionel" party for $75, and which is a little too short at the waist, and for which I bought one of those cami things with lace on bottom yesterday... glance in mirror, I look like a wanna-be teenager, but no time to change. Grap purple watch, strap breaks. Ten minutes to jury-rig that. Grab my stuff and out the door, get scarf caught in velcro on briefcase, almost strangle myself. Stop in at Tim's for bagel & cream cheese (I'm lactose sensitive but need the protein) and an extr-large coffee. I have a briefing to the minister due at noon. STOP, Relax, breath, focus. Back to work.

2009-04-08T21:30:00.002-06:00

It seems I'm spending more and more time on business trips, and with all the changes in the new provincial budget, there will be a lot more meetings in Edmonton. I didn't leave Calgary until 11:50 on Tuesday, and my meeting in Edmonton was at 3:00. The accident on Deerfoot cost me about 15 minutes, but I made it to the hotel, parked the car, walked the 4 blocks to Commerce Place, and was only 5 minutes late. You do the math... We had a follow-up discussions at Rick's Grill - a really nice upscale restaurant. Great food, nice atmosphere, but expensive.

I decided to sleep in this morning, had a nice buffet breakfast, and headed back for a meeting back in Calgary at 2:30. Meeting was cancelled, so went shopping instead. I'll be working this weekend to finish some projects without interruption, so I felt entitled.

Weather finally Spring-like, Al even rode his Harley to work in Okotoks. There's still a bit of snow and ice in shaded areas, but I think it might be safe to switch to my summer tires. The main roadways have been clear for awhile. Called Mom tonight, she said still lots of snow in Miramichi. She's looking forward to her trip out here in June, and we're excited to have her for the summer.

And that's all for now folks.

March update

2009-04-01T12:31:00.003-06:00

I hope Blogger isn't playing an April Fool's trick on me by letting me sign in for an update. I'm doing this from the office during my break, so the previous problems were probably with my laptop.

Some updates:
Mom coming for visit June 22nd (Monday) for an unlimited stay. Her birthday - she'll be 77 years old on the 7th day of the 7th month. I think that means something.
Aline will be coming for a few weeks in July as well.
My nephew Steven may be going to SAIT in the fall, and will be staying with me for the duration.
Both Crystal and Steven are turning 19 this month, their last year as teenagers.

My business travel has gotten quite hectic, last week had meetings in Lethbridge on Tuesday, Edmonton on Friday, and Lethbridge again for their Project Homeless Connect event on Saturday. I had tickets for the Windmill Dinner Theatre at 6PM on Saturday, and had no trouble getting there from Lethbridge. However, when I came out of the theatre to drive to Calgary, we were having another snowstorm. I had to drive 60 KM/Hr all the way and saw a very bad accident north of Okotoks. It was pretty scary.

I've had absolutely no time or energy for housework, so my place is a shambles right now. With work travel, Progress Club, and my social life, I'm not home very much.

Anyway, let's see if this actually gets published.

Just rambling...

2009-02-26T20:04:00.002-07:00

I confess, I've been home since I left work at noon on Tuesday. I've been having lots of problems with my GI system, and since I've been home I've been sleeping about 14 hours per day. I'm debating whether I should go to work tomorrow, or just write-off the work week and start over on Monday.

I put in a request last week for vacation time the whole month of July. If it's approved, I'll fly to NB, rent a car, and Mom and I will hit the road. I haven't been to the maritimes in July since forever because I usually include a Progress Club convention in the trip, and they're always in September or October.

Speaking of which, the mini-convention for the Western Region is being held at the Red Deer lodge at the end of May this year, I'll be there for my birthday. The National Convention will be in Kelowna, BC so I'll probably need a week for travel time through the mountains.

Yawn

2009-02-25T18:20:00.003-07:00

I've started and half-read a number of books including Lisey's Story by Stephen King, World Without End by Ken Follett, waiting in the wings is The Appeal by Robert Ludlum. People of the Lakes by Gear,and I'm currently two-thirds through Stephenie Meyer's second book in the Twilight Saga: New Moon . I breezed through about a half-dozen Nora Robert/J.D.Robb/Iris Johansen novelettes in the past month. I'm having the same problems concentrating at work, going through my usual and seemingly unavoidable SAD sysptoms for the past 6 weeks or so. I've upped my dosage of Vitamines, expecially "D". I'm really beginning to believe that I should take the month of February off and go to a hot place with lots of sun and surf. There must be some place that won't cost a fortune if I'm willing to cook and clean up after myself.

But I do have a party to go to Saturday night that should be a lot of fun.

2009-02-14T23:22:00.002-07:00

It's the Family Day long-weekend, and I've got the house to myself as LeeAnne and Al are house-sitting for a friend. It looked so dreary outside that I didn't even bother to take my pj's off, a good day to stay inside and relax, read and watch movies.

Red Deer was cold and I had trouble finding where I needed to be with their strange street patterns.

I'm glad I got a chance to visit with Edmond and Josephine. They're doing as well as can be expected. Charles was there with his little daughter, Olivia. She's really sweet. And I got to meet Lydia and her husband. They're all taking good care of Jo.

It's a Beautiful Sunday

2009-02-08T11:52:00.003-07:00

It's a beautiful Sunday, and I'm feeling fine. I made myself pancakes this morning, and I'm on my third cup of coffee. I finished another Nora Roberts book last night, pure escapism.

The play at Vertigo was very good "An Inspector Calls", which I hadn't seen before. It's nice to see Vertigo getting back to its roots. I had to bow out of dinner afterward with the girls because I was still suffering the effects of the double cheeseburger from Wendy's Friday afternoon I had skipped lunch at work again because of a particularly complicated (for me) spreadsheet that I was designing. I was starving by 3:00 PM. My digestive system was already upset from the hit-and-miss of meals on the road during the past week. Joe, how did you manage it?

I've decided to set small, attainable goals for myself. No red meat or dairy products (except for my Lactaid milk) for the month of February. Lot's of vegetables, with no added salt. Al's doing a BBQ of pork chops with potato wedges for dinner. I don't know why I'm so obsessed with food. I certainly have enough going on in my life to keep me occupied.

I thought I'd have fun trying to thin out my wardrobe today. I'll take everything out of the closets, dressers, shelves, and pile it on the bed. I'll prepare about a half-dozen boxes (Women's Shelter, Consignment, read-to-wear after weight loss, needs alterations, give to friends). I'll take Before & After pictures to post. I want to start arranging my work outfits into combos (pants, blouse/sweater, jacket) to save time in the mornings.I also have to get rid of at least half of my footwear, jewellery and accessories. You have no idea how much I've accumulated, I don't even think I do for sure.

And on that note, I'd better get started.

2009-02-05T21:59:00.003-07:00

Some days I am thinking there is no way I can survive another year of work, and then I hear about another company that is laying off a couple of thousand people.

There are over 4,000 documented homeless people in Calgary alone. Sometime around April, my department is releasing Alberta's 10-year plan to end homelessness. I've been a small part of this document, and while everyone knows that to eliminate the need for homeless shelters completely is unrealistic, the plan will work (with proper funding). It's being reviewed by Treasury right now.

Today, I was called to accompany our Deputy Minister and ADM to one of the family shelters in my portfolio, we just started funding it in the Fall. Last week, they had a new mom with a baby not 48 hours old. Both are doing fine. The hospital actually discharged them with no place to go, so they were taken to the shelter. I'm not sure why social services didn't step in. While I was there, a young woman who looked like a teenager was walking with a baby girl, about 6 months old. The baby smiled at me as I talked to her, it wasn't her baby, she was acting as "auntie" to give the Mom a break. It was so heart-rending.

This weekend, I'm spending time with friends - going to see a play at the Vertigo Mystery Theatre and then out to dinner. Looking forward to it.

Maybe I can make a little bit of difference before I retire.

Back Home

2009-01-30T22:51:00.002-07:00

It was a long 3 days of meetings, site visits, lunches, and breakfast meeting. I did get quite a bit accomplished, so it was a productive trip. I stopped in Nanton on the way home and took my friend Winona out for an early dinner. There's a restaurant there called Blu's Bistro that serves really good food. I hadn't seen Winona for a while, so I gave us a chance to get caught up.

The Regional Spring convention for progress club is in Red Deer this year, last weekend in May. Winona and Shirley will be sharing a room and taking in all the festivities. I'll be the only one who has to get up to attend the AGM and sessions while they'll get to sleep in.

It will be good to sleep in my own bed again, with the furballs curled up beside me. Haven't seen LeeAnne or Al yet, they're both working tonight.

New Shoes Afterall

2009-01-30T22:44:00.004-07:00

The mismatched footwear was very noticeable in the light of day, so... I found these on sale at the mall in Lethbridge (regularly $100 marked down to $19.99) Leather uppers, rubber soles good for walking on ice, very comfortable.

A Lucie-ism @ Lethbridge Lodge

2009-01-27T19:03:00.002-07:00

You always forget something, right?
Well I remembered to wear a right and a left boot, but one is black, and one is brown!
I've had the black ones forever, and liked them so much, I bought the identical pair in brown last year. It's kind of hard to tell in the shadows of the coat closet. I didn't notice until I took them off in the hotel room, even though I was in the office this morning and replaced them with shoes. I figure if it took that long for me to notice, nobody else will clue in, even though I'm here for 3 days. I really don't need another pair of shoes, and don't want to sneak off to the nearest mall to get matching footwear.
They announced 100 KmH winds in Southern Alberta, and they were not kidding. The waves of drifting snow across the highway was almost surreal, like being in another world. I had to slow down, but other than that, didn't really have any problems. My car is very aerodynamic, not like some of those SUV's I passed on the way down.
The wind is so loud here in Lethbridge, and I'm on the 4th floor. Appears this hotel doesn't have room service, but it does have a nice restaurant and the lounge is in a park-like setting with trees, little foot bridges, pool & jacuzzi, etc.
My first meeting isn't until 9:00 AM tomorrow, so I get to sleep in.
Good night, all.

2009-01-23T21:56:00.003-07:00

I survived my first week as "Acting Director" without any blood-letting, barely. Needless to say, I didn't get any of my own work done. When I got home today, I was so tired that I fell into bed and slept soundly for 2 hours. Then I got up and fixed myself a big plate of fish & chips (what diet?) and am watching a Hillary Swank movie on TV (Raise Your Voice) which is pretty good.
Today was interesting. Our illustrious Premier was present at the Drop-in Centre for the announcement of a $7 Million affordable housing project. I've never been in a room with that many polititians before. I was glad we didn't have to do it outside. A few days ago I was driving downtown with the sunroof open, and today was about -30 degrees with the wind chill.
Next week I'll be in Lethbridge for 3 days, and although it will be crammed with meetings, I'm going to try to enjoy some time away from the office. Hopefully I won't have to spend more than a few hours in the eveninbg organizing and recording my notes on the lap-top. I got upgraded to an executive room at the Lethbridge Lodge with high-speed internet and work area. I'm thinking a "new release" movie in my room after a lavender-scented bubble bath, and room service. All that travelling has to come with some perks.

Nothing exciting, Just stuff

2009-01-17T11:47:00.003-07:00

Ithought I'd better update before the cyber-gremlins snuck in and locked me out again.
Next week, I'm doing my first stint as "Acting Director" while my boss is away having some minor surgery. I was getting complacent since I had been able to avoid it so long. There's a fine line between having no interest in getting into management, and staying in the game. I just don't want to be responsible for anybody's work but my own.
I had my brush with the flu bug last week, but at least I didn't get the nasty cold Al had, and passed on to Lee Anne. I think they both wore themselves out when the kids were here. They had a really good time, and want to come back.
I've already fallen off the wagon at the gym, allegedly because of the flu. You know, I think there's a special place in Purgatory for fitness trainers, those sweet young things in their cutsey size 3 matching outfits, assuring me it will get easier. (Is that mean?)
While the East is shivering in unspeakable cold, we're getting balmy +10 weather while there's still tons of snow on the ground. What a mess. Calgary only plows the main roads because, historically chinooks have melted most of the snow away from the side roads. My back alley is in the shade so it's melting slowly.
I haven't decided yet if I'm going to a fellow progressian's 60th birthday party tonight, it's way the hell out in Bearspaw. Feels like a lazy weekend which is fine by me.

Hallelujah

2009-01-08T21:32:00.003-07:00

One of my all-time favorite songs is Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah. I don't profess to fully understand the lyrics (what's your take on it?) I knew it was popular, but I had no idea how many artists had recorded it. I wanted to post my favorite versions, but "it" won't let me. Check out YouTube. The best music video, of course, is by Cohen himself, See if you can find it: Leonard Cohen - Hallelujah. Next best: K.D. Lang version. I also like the Bon Jovi version and the HALLELUJAH, (Shrek Song) which features the World Idol - Kurt Nilsen. Funny-looking guy, but boy, can he sing!

"After you've listened to Kurt Nilsen, click on "Lost Highway" which he does with Willie Nelson. Great video showing the ravages of addictions. I wonder why they featured Willie in this one?

Maybe some day I'll learn how to post the link directly onto my blog.

Later.

Back to work

2009-01-07T21:42:00.002-07:00

The week at work has been pretty hectic, as expected. Drove down to Lethbridge today in ice-fog so thick, the visibility was reduced to about 3 car-lengths. You know, I've always thought driving for hours and hours is so boring, and sometimes I get sleepy. Having said that, I'm thinking maybe today was not a good time for me to test out my new hobby - learning Spanish while driving. Trying to concentrate on the road, and interacting with the CD (which by the way is supposed to be used in conjunction with a workbook which obviously is not an option while driving) gave me a headache. Anyway, I think I learned a bit.
I don't know why I find it so hard to concentrate on just one thing at a time, I even read 3 books at once. I have to have the radio on in my office, and I'm usually munching on something while working on the computer. It's like I have to use all 5 senses at once. Now it seems I never watch TV without working on my laptop. Then again, is there anything left on TV that requires anyone's full attention? I know, I'm rambling - too much coffee today.
I'm trying to curve the impulse to check on my office e-mail tonight because that would be counter to my resolution "Balance 2009".
I went back to Spa Lady yesterday. God, I'm so out of shape. I have to start all over again with the lowest weights and resistance levels. Oh well, it's a start.
And that's all for tonight.

p.s. I bought gas for 68.9 cents/litre in Claresholm, and it is now at 77.9 in Calgary.

Family Vacation pics

2009-01-03T20:56:00.009-07:00

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T11:43:00.002-07:00

Started the eve of the New Year by meeting Aline's in-laws for breakfast this morning. Now, I need a nap. Nick's sister and brother-in-law are a lot of fun.
We went out for a family dinner last night at East Side Mario's and to the movie "Marlie & Me" afterward. What a tear-jerker, we were all sniffling. It's a good movie if you're sentimental. Adrienne and Steven both have jobs, but have been off enough to spend quality time with them.
On the 19th, Adrienne and a friend of hers took me to the Royal Ontario Museum where we spent about 4 hours, I really enjoyed it. They had a special diamond exhibit hosted by the DeBeers family, with one especially rare yellow that was the third largest cut diamond in the world. There was many millions of dollars worth of jewels with diamonds of every colour. I bought a really unique Christmas ornament at their gift shop.
After the ROM, we spent about 5 hours at the Eaton Centre in downtown Toronto. I took Adrienne and Robbie out to lunch, and we shopped until I was ready to drop. I did get my favorite perfume at Abercrombie & Fitch. People were actually lining up to get into the higher-end stores like Arizia and Hollister.
On the 20th we went to the local market which was a lot of fun. I couldn't believe the great deals, but I brought only so much cash, and when it was gone, I was done. I found the "perfect" wrap around scarf, a purple watch to add to my collection, and a pretty gray t-shirt.
Speaking of diamonds, Aline, Nick and Adrienne surprised me on Christmas morning with a beautiful gold/diamond ring. I guess they figured I'd probably never get one in the traditional manner. Stephen bought me a stunning silver necklace with Swarovsky crystal. I think I'm going to have to get rid of some of the costume jewellery, and start wearing more of the genuine articles. I believe I mentioned in my previous blog what I bought at the "going-out-of-business" jewellery store. It's a good thing I go back home day after tomorrow, or I'd go back there for one last look. A white gold bracelet would be nice...
Tonight, we'll toast in the new year with a "wine & Cheese" at home.
I'll take this opportunity to wish everybody a happy and safe new year with friends and loved ones. My resolution: Balance in 2009.

Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T09:01:00.003-07:00

It's Christmas Eve and my debit card is still smoking! I didn't even use my credit card once!!!
The trip to Toronto was Oh yeah.....:0 right there...aaahhhhh ;-) (sorry, getting a back rub) anyway, waited 4 hours in the airport, arrived Toronto some time after 3:00 AM. Luckily, I thought to call Nick to let him know I'd be taking a taxi home, so don't even try to get to the airport. The roads weren't bad once I got here, but the taxi ride cost $78 plus tip. Aline is still beautifully slim (damn her) and Nick hasn't changed a bit. The kids are both beautiful, of course.

One of the jewellery stores here is going out of business (everything 70% off) and knowing this ahead of time, I had set aside one expense cheque. I finally got my birthstone (emerald) in a yellow gold pinky ring. I saw this white gold/black diamond chip ring in the window with kind of an "eternity symbol" design, and immediately fell in love with it. I spent about a half-hour in the store looking at all the bargains, and bought LeeAnne's birthday gift as well. But, of course, I had to have them take the ring from the window display, and it was the perfect size. So I bargained them down and am wearing it with pride.
Adrienne surprised me with a cordless "Blue Tooth" device for my cell phone - I'll now be able to talk on the road "hands free" when I need to.
I talked to LeeAnne last night, and the kids arrived late, tired, but safe and sound. I'm looking forward to seeing them upon my return. I'm sure they'll both love Calgary if they can get past the cold.
So, Merry Christmas everyone, and I hope Santa finds you warm and well.

No sense of direction at all...

2008-12-16T20:45:00.002-07:00

Let me start this story by telling you that people in Calgary do not know how to drive on ice and snow, so traffic slowed to a crawl after our "blizzard". Last night after work I had to pick up our Deputy Minister and her entourage at the hotel and accompany them to the Drop-in & Rehab Centre Society (that's our biggest homeless shelter for those of you not from Calgary). A trip that would usually take 20 minutes took me over an hour. When I finally got off Macleod Trail, I turned on 6th Ave instead of 4th by mistake. I turned down 3rd Street to double back, and came upon 3 fire trucks and other emergency vehicles that I had to try to get around. When I finally got to the hotel, they were very understanding, even though I had them rushing through their supper because the shelter had called and wanted us to get there earlier. Then I found out my usual route to the shelter was closed off as part of the "gentrification" plan for East Calgary, so I had to get there via 9th Ave. It's only 3 blocks away, I could see the shelter - it's very distinctive and hard to miss - but I just couldn't get there without a lot of wrong turns, more barriers, and such. We finally got there, but missed the part of the Intake process we really wanted to see. We did give the VIP's a good tour and a feel for the place, and they were gracious enough to invite me for a Christmas cocktail afterward, but by then I just wanted to get home. Oh well, they'll probably never ask me to drive again. My department gave over $21 Million for an affordable housing project, and all the media, polititians and the people from last night were there. Their first question to me was "Did you drive?" I had caught a ride with a colleague, and we didn't run across any traffic jams. During his speech thanking the Minister for the government's contribution to their pet project, Pat Nixon singled me out for special recognition for my work with them throughout the years. I hope that's what they remember, and not the disaster of the night before. Another Lucie-ism?

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2008-12-10T22:11:00.004-07:00

We got about a foot of snow on Saturday, and of course that was the night I was going to my first party.

I made it to and from the dinner safe and sound, but did get a $36 ticket for blocking someone's driveway for the duration. The visibility was so bad that I really didn't realize. I'm lucky I didn't get towed. The paper work was on my windshield, but the tow-truck hadn't arrived yet.

Babie Loves Shoes

2008-12-06T23:33:00.003-07:00

My male cat, Babie, has always had a thing for shoes.

I''ve never seen another cat do this.

I hope you can watch this clip.

Clutter

2008-12-06T23:27:00.002-07:00

OK, so I come home to find this contraption in the middle of my livingroom. I've been asking Al for about a week now "Where are you going to put that thing!" In his usual smart-ass manner, he told me he'd decorate it for Christmas. I can't wait until he gets home to see this:

2008-12-05T21:24:00.002-07:00

Well, the good news is, I don't need hearing aids yet. The bad news - the X-rays came back, and the lower back pains are caused by sciatica (check spelling?).

I have my first Christmas party this weekend, it's a pot-luck and I'm bringing vegetables. The Progress Club gathering is on the 17th, the Drop-In Centre invited me to their party which they are having at Canada Olympic Park Friday night. Then Sunday is our office party at a restaurant downtown. It's all creeping up very fast, I haven't even mailed my parcel to New Brunswick yet. We'll probably do some Christmas decorating at home this weekend, including putting up the tree. All my gifts are bought, but I still can't seem to get in the spirit of things. Maybe I'll ask Santa to find me a less stressful job. I am looking forward to my trip to Toronto - I can't wait to see the kids again.

Today I was "invited" to join a new government committee that has to come up with something to replace an outdated piece of legislation. It's going to be a lot of work, and I'm the only member from Calgary so I'll be travelling to Edmonton a lot more often.

And on that note, I promise to make my next posting a little more upbeat.

Just another Sunday

2008-11-30T18:04:00.002-07:00

I spent most of last Thursday evening observing the Intake function of the Mustard Seed Foothills Shelter. Our Minister wants us to do this on a regular basis, but I don't really see this as necessary. It was worthwhile seeing how they have grown and what programs they have in place since we started funding them, but I'm not keen on working evenings and then having to catch up after I take the next morning off.
Our Assistant Deputy Minister visited our office, and met with me and my colleague on Friday and it appears to me that he is as stressed as we are. (I hope nobody from my office reads this.)

I had planned a nice relaxing drive to Banff with a friend on Saturday, but I was so tired and had one of those "Chinook" headaches that just wouldn't go away. So I just vegged at home and slept most of the day. What a waste of a weekend.

I attended my friend Kathy in the NE who was hosting an "Optionelle" clothing party. Just of curiosity I set my odometer, and it was 32 Km from my place to hers. This city covers such a big area, I don't know what we would do without Deerfoot Trail. Kathy and her daughter attended my "Weekender" party this past summer, so I owed her. I promised myself I woudn't buy anything because I just finished reorganizing my closet and thinning out my wardrobe so it could mostly fit in one closet. Yeah, right!

Tomorrow morning I have an appointment with the "hearing" specialist - probably need to get hearing aids soon. I'm not looking forward to it.

And that's all, folks.

Theatre and Jewellery Party

2008-11-24T21:18:00.004-07:00

Saturday I went to the High River Windmill dinner theatre where they were playing "The Music Man". All the actors are local, and they put on a really good show. Even the local kids are very talented. The buffet is always delicious - salmon, prime rib, all kinds of salads and vegetables, super dessert table. Yum! No wonder I'm fat.

Sunday my friend Brenda hosted a Silpada jewellery party. They have some lovely stuff, Sterling silver and semi-precious stones, but I had promised myself I wouldn't buy anything because they are kind of expensive. However, I did end up buying a few less expensive pieces
See http://www.silpada.ca/
And Brenda had lots of goodies to munch on - more pounds.

My collections

2008-11-24T21:12:00.004-07:00

Sometimes I get a little carried away when I start collecting things. I've always like to match jewellry with outfits. The thing about the watches is, they all need batteries and that becomes expensive. And I like to wear rings on the 3 middle fingers of each hand.

The Earings

2008-11-24T20:46:00.003-07:00

My friend and colleague, Francesca (Frank) went to Mexico and bought these "designer" earings for $200. When she tried to wear them, she said they were too heavy for her, and her daughter wouldn't wear them either. Soooooo... I bought them from her for $30. I've never heard of the designer (Morgan) so it didn't mean much to me, but I liked the style.

Course, Work Project, Shopping

2008-11-24T19:06:00.008-07:00

After sitting through a full day of "Wills & Estates" on Friday, I decided it would be a lot simpler to just outlive everyone. I have a will, it's just very outdated.

Saturday, I reluctantly got up early because I had to be at City Hall at 8:30 for Project Homeless Connect. All the homeless serving Agencies were represented, and the turnout was huge, over 1,000 people. I helped out at the Salvation Army clothing counter.

On the way home, I stopped off at Pennington's because I had a $40 coupon and I needed a new war winter jacket. It turns out the coupon is only good after Nov. 26th. But they did have 35% off and an extra $25 off the full purchase. I picked out a nice teal ski-jacket style, long enough to cover my butt, and with a hood. Then I spied a cute little indoor black jacket with red trim and big silver buttons - kind of a retro style, don't you think. Well, those are the exact colors or the new earings so I had to get it. Of course, it was on the clearance rack. It will look nice at some of the Christmas parties I'm going to this year.

The Stamps are Champs!

2008-11-23T18:59:00.007-07:00

Yep, the Calgary Stampeders are the Grey Cub champions. Final score W22 E14, western domination continues. Thanks to Henry Burris and the guys, Calgary is the City of Champions!

I hope one of those tickets I sold was a winner.

Wednesday, Thursday

2008-11-20T20:11:00.006-07:00

Some changes in scheduling made it unnecessary to do the 2-day trip to Lethbridge, so I was able to attend our inter-club social with the Stampede City Men's Progress Club last night. The guys were very supportive of our first big charity golf tournament this past summer, sponsoring the event to the tune of $10,000. They are a very solid club with well established regular fundraising events. To thank them, my club Calgary Eves hosted them at a nice upscale restaurant called La Vita Bella. It's in a historic property, sort of like a huge old house, and their food is very good. However, I think the decaf they served me = wasn't and I was awake most of the night.

I came home to find Al's Harley prominently displayed on my new deck. He says he actually built the deck as a platform to showcase his "baby". It does look pretty good there. I'll try to remember to get a picture on the weekend.

Today, an old friend from my AMHC days took me out to lunch, across the street for Leo Fu's Chinese buffet. Try staying alert after after a lunch like that when you've had only 4 hours sleep the night before. I kept in touch with Walter because he does a lot of consultingcontracting work with the Special Purpose Housing groups in my portfolio. Since our latest re-organization, I had to let those projects go to someone else - I just had to cut down on my workload with the new projects I am now working on. Walter and the groups are not too happy about this, but I hope whoever inherits them will give them the attention and support they need. Because they are very small projects (group homes mostly) with small budgets, they had been somewhat neglected before I took them on. Anyway, Walter and I will continue to have lunch and he'll keep me updated on what's happening.

Tomorrow I'm off to attend a course called "Wills and Estates". I'm overdue for an update so I registered when I saw it on the list of courses offered through our office.

And that's my week so far.

2008-11-18T18:29:00.003-07:00

Everyone seems to have Halloween pictures but me, so I dug out this old one from a few years ago.

Well, the dusting of snow we got over the weekend has pretty much all melted, and the temperature remains above freezing during the day, so no complaints there. I did get my winter tires installed, and the car is all winterized. I was able to postpone the trip to Lethbridge this week which works out well because I still have so much work to get done in so little time. The computers were down in the office today, so that gave me a chance to catch up on some phone calls and get my office somewhat organized.

I went to South Centre Mall on the way home to get a back X-ray (my right leg keeps going to sleep) and they have medical offices and labs in the lower level. Good timing since I fell on the stairs with a basket of laundry again. I had to tell the tech a few times "don't put pressure there - there's a bruise." Anyway, back to the mall, there's Christmas stuff everywhere but I'm not the least bit in the mood. I am looking forward to seeing everyone in Pickering (Ontario) where I will be spending the holidays this year. Al`s kids will be visiting LeeAnne and their father here. I hope they arrive a few days before I leave so I can get to know them a bit. I didn't get a chance to see then when I was in NB this summer.

I know this is all very boring, but I want to get in the habit of posting regularly. Should be an interesting weekend, though. Stay tuned.

Monday already?

2008-11-16T20:29:00.004-07:00

It's Sunday night and I'm back at work tomorrow after being off since last Monday. I'll have to dive right in and hope things aren't too hectic. I have a chiropractic/massage appointment in the afternoon, so that will force me to take a break. I also have to drop my car off at Fountain Tire next door to have the winter tires put on, and might as well get the winter tune-up since I'm due for an oil change anyway. I'm supposed to travel to Lethbridge again for a couple of days mid-week. I might decide to postpone that - I'll see how it goes.
Then I'm on course on Friday (Wills & Estates).
I have to participate in Project Homeless Connects http://www.endinghomelessness.ca/default.asp?FolderID=1572
at City Hall on Saturday, and I have a dinner theatre that same night in High River. Sunday there's a jewellry (Silpada) party at a co-worker's house nearby.

Lee & Al Road Trip 2008

2008-11-12T13:57:00.005-07:00

Since LeeAnne doesn 't have her own blog site, I am taking the liberty of posting some of her pictures. It was a long trip for them, but they loved every minite of it. They went through the northern States and met a lot of very friendly and accommodation Americans. The weather wasn't great as you can see from the last 2 pictures. Al's kids were very happy to see their Dad and spent the whole visit at Mom's place. They're part of our family now. They adore Mom and she has adopted them as her other grandchildren.

Before & After

2008-11-12T13:48:00.004-07:00

NB trip (3) Fredericton

2008-11-12T13:12:00.009-07:00

Allison, Jason, & their mom Tina (my other little sister)

The site of my first apartment in Fredericton (98 York St.) in 1973.

After visiting relatives in the Miramichi area, Mom and I headed to Fredericton and the Grand Lake area. They seem to have recovered from the big flood which did a tremendous amount of damage.

My friend Mary and her boys visited me at Betty's and we all had a nice visit.

Next day met Glenna & Mike at Dimitri's in Fredericton, and got a chance to do some shopping. Got quite a bit at Aitken's Pewter which was always one of my favorite places.

NB trip (2) Convention

2008-11-12T12:35:00.016-07:00

Golf

(That's Johnston, our 4th)

Captain Dan's

Shediac

We kept well lubricated during the golf game with Vodka coolers and some kind of shooters I could not identify.

We had a georgeous day, and went back to the golf club for steak and lobster.

Group at the Big Lobster

The Canadian Progress Club National Convention was held in NB for the first time ever, and the Moncton clubs did us proud. The Beausejour was great, and the social events were held mostly off-site at area clubs. I particularly liked the Fox Creek golf course, and Captain Dan's in Shediac . The Disco night was fun, and the afternoon at the beach.

Oh yeah, and we got some Progress Club business done in between all the parties.

I could tell so many stories, but will just say it was a great convention with wonderful people from all over Canada who got to enjoy my home province for the first time.

N.B. trip(1) September 2008

2008-11-12T12:12:00.005-07:00

Arrived Moncton airport Sept.13th after an exhauting flight.

I was supposed to go to Fredericton the next day for a CMHC reunion, but just too tired.

Had a nice relaxing visit with the family and admired Mom's new kitchen, Al did a wonderful job for her. He promised to do more finishing work next summer when he and LeeAnne will fly to give them more time.

Am I really back??????

2008-11-12T12:09:00.001-07:00

Is it possible that I've actually figures this out?
I pray to the "Cyber Gods" to bless this site!

Travelling again...

2008-09-03T17:10:00.003-06:00

When I first got up for work yesterday, I was disgusted to discover that I had to scrape ice off my windshield. My new Saturn doesn't have an automatic starter, and I don't have a garage, so I think I'll have one installed when I return from vacation.

When I got to work, I decided to head down to Lethbridge for a meeting which was really a last minute thing. It's such a pretty ride that I don't mind. Calgary is over an hour from the mountains although you can see them quite well from here. But as you drive south, you get closer and closer to the foothills and the Crowsnest Pass.

Besides Lethbridge, my job takes me to Edmonton and occasionally to Medicine Hat. I may have to go to Edmonton once more before I leave on vacation, hope not. It usually means an overnight because the drive takes over 3 hours, and it's too much to drive back after a day of meetings and such.

Here is the link for the National Convention I'll be attending in a few weeks.
http://www.monctonprogressclub.org/2008_national_convention.htm
I'll need the week after to recuperate.

Crystal's graduation

2008-09-03T17:00:00.002-06:00

Louis' daughter Crystal Lynn, graduated from Miramichi Valley High School Spring 2008.

I had to include my other favorite teenager on my new blog.

Like her cousin Steven (who was born one month after her) Crystal has not yet decided what direction her future career will take.

She's definitely smart enough for university, let's keep our fingers crossed.

I'll be visiting with her soon as she is still living with my Mom in Miramichi, looking for work locally.

She sent me some other super pictures which I will share at some other time.

May 2008

2008-09-01T20:48:00.004-06:00

Yep, I turned 55 this year, and retirement is starting to become very appealing.
I've been 20 years with the Government of Alberta currently acting as the liaison
between the provincial government and the homeless shelters in Alberta.

The Babie

2008-09-01T20:41:00.003-06:00

This is Babie.

This cat has more fur than any of my feline friends. He's a handsome puss, and the youngest of the household.

The Tossmann Kids

2008-09-01T20:22:00.007-06:00

Adrienne Tossmann

Summer of 2007

She's going into her second year of Nursing at Ryerson in Toronto. They live in Pickering.

This is my my handsome nephew, Steven Tossmann, Aline's son who is now 18 years old. He graduated from high school this year, but still hasn't decided on his future plans.

September already???

2008-09-01T20:09:00.003-06:00

There is something wrong with waking up on August 31st and finding ice on your patio table. I actually had to turn the heat on over the weekend, and today, Labour Day Monday, is not much warmer. I'm on vacation in 2 weeks, and feel a cold coming on, so I pampered myself all weekend with lots of sleep and carbs.

I fly to NB on Sept.13 and spend 4 days with Mom in Miramichi, then off to Moncton for the start of the Canadian Progress Club National Convention which starts on Wednesday with a friendly golf tournament, and ends with brunch on sunday morning - with lots of meetings, seminars, the AGM, Award Luncheon, Saturday Night Ball, and a lot of partying all at the Beausejour in Moncton. Stay tuned for pictures.

Then it's back to Miramichi to spend time with family until I have to leave on the 28th. Maybe I'll see some of you during my visit.

My little family

2008-09-01T19:56:00.005-06:00

My sister LeeAnne, and my Boyfriend-in-law Al are living with me, and I've gotten used to seeing a 10-foot Harley chopper in my back yard. They've gotten used to sharing space with 3 spoiled, pampered and temperamental felines. SweetPea had adopted Al as her pet and likes to be wherever he is, as seen here. She fit quite nicely in one of his saddle bags.

I'm really back!

2008-08-25T21:07:00.005-06:00

Yes, thanks to my cousin-in-law 'Berta, it appears I'm back in the BLOG world. I've got so much catching up to do, I'll probably do a few entries per week, and add a historical item from the "lost" months.

I'll start by trying to post a recent photo of one of my kitties, Angel.

But for now, it's been a rough Monday so it's time to get ready for bed.