10-364 (31/12/23) -- New Year Wishes

Fifteen years ago, I wrote a social media post expressing my hopes and wishes for the the new year.  It may be a touch of self-plagiarism, but I'm sharing it here this year anyway. <smile> 

In the words of Anton Chekov -- 

"We shall find peace.

We shall hear the angels. 

We shall see the sky sparkling iwth diamonds."

The hope for peace is more at the forefront of the public consciousness at this time of year. Building peace requires hope and both individual and collective action. While action towards global freedom from conflict and want may seem overwhelming, small actions support hope and build understanding and tolerance. We can each learn and teach about differences -- try a new cultural food, work in a community garden, get to know your local food producers, advocate for social change, practice the 3 R's (reduce, reuse, recyle -- and the 4th forgotten R -- refuse), plant a tree, invite a neighbour to tea, voluneer your expertise in a community organization. 

Actions such as these bring to mind a favourite quote from a great Canadian, Tommy C. Douglas. 

"Peace on earth is not something we have achieved but something for which we must strive if mankind is to survive. If Christmas means anything it should mean that, like the shepherds of old, we catch a vision of the world as it ought to be and not as it is. This is the season when we should renew our determination to do what we can, each in our own way, to build a world founded on human brotherhood and concern for the needs of others."

So -- when making New Year's resolutions strive to make your corner of the world a better place for others -- small actions do have impacts, as noted by anthropologiest Margaret Mead. 

Ghandi stated, "Be the change you wish to see in the world."

I wish you a New Year filled with peace, joy and understanding. May 2024 bring renewed hope and strength to continue to build peace in ourselves, in our own communities and across the globe. 

I chose a song often sung on this day. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Auld Lang Sine -- Rod Stewart 

10-363 (30/12/23) -- Attacked

It was an odd day. Things went well as I got through some household chores. I did some laundry, but much more left for tomorrow. I washed some  heavy cotton rugs with a couple of towels to help balance the load. As expected, I experienced the attack of the unbalanced washing machine. I swear the dryer one day will come dislodged and move through the wall into the dining room or bathroom. <sigh> I should contact the maintenance person to come and check to see if the washer is actually balanced to begin with. Something else to add to my 'to do' list. 

When out for a walk today, I had an encounter with dog -- a young golden retriever. It appeared that the dog was being leash trained. They paused in front of me as the woman got the dog to sit and then gave it a treat. I stopped about 8-10 feet behind them while this occurred. As soon as the treat was received, the dog took off and tried to jump up on me and then grabbed my hand. The mitten took the brunt of it. I could feel the sharp teeth against my fingers. Luckily, only the mitten was involved. Once the woman finally got the dog to let go, my other hand, which I had tight up against my side, was grabbed and game was repeated. Again, no actual bite. The leash was never shortened, nor was the collar grasped. I felt shaken and found that I had tears on my cheeks as I continued my walk. I was happy the encounter wasn't worse or had occurred with either of the two other walkers out this afternoon, both of whom used a walking pole or cane. Needless to say, I will turn in the opposite direction next time I see this pair on the road. 

I'm sorry that the song that came into my head is a nasty earworm. I warn you before you listen. <smile> Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Who Let the Dogs Out -- Baha Men

who let the dogs out??? 

10-362 (29/12/23) -- Two Storms and a Plan

Two -- count them -- two low pressure systems visited our region today. Starting last nights, freezing rain, ice pellets and rain fell until late afternoon. The second system brought snow that will fall this evening, overnight and into tomorrow. Needless to say, I chose to stay inside today. No need to tempt fate with icy patches on the driveway and roads (we have no sidewalks in this development -- but if we did, hey would be slippery, too <smile>). I had a few ideas of things I'd like to get done before the end of the year. I felt more like hibernating. It was dark all day, which sends a little message to the brain that it is time to rest. <sigh> 

The new year should begin with a few days without precipitation and with a sun-cloud mix. I look forward to that. We have two days to prepare for a new year celebration. I think I have all that I need for me to have a wee nosh and virtual visit with a dear friend. I also have new pjs and slippers to wear in the new year. So, I'm pretty much good to go. <smile> I've generally been one for staying home or giving or attending a small house party. Larger events have never been my forte. A few song lines about preparing to celebrate new years eve came to mind today.  Keep safe. Enjoy! 

What Are You Doing New Years Eve? -- Harry Connick, Jr

10-361 (28/12/23) -- Commensality

The day was bright and sunny with a clear blue sky. Clouds began to drift in during the late afternoon. These may be leading the coming storm, which may bring freezing rain and ice pellets all followed by rain. It sounds messy at best. 

A good friend and I had our Christmas lunch out today. We had to cancel last week due to the major snow fall. We were at the restaurant chatting for two hours! We were the second table in for lunch and the alst to leave. I shouldn't be surprised since we have had lengthy chats since we first met. Always something to chat about. <smile> 

I enjoy sharing ideas and stories over a meal with friends. This part of holiday celebrations brings laughter and strengthens ties. Happily, such gatherings can happen at any time of the year and don't only occur within the confines of a holiday. Commensality appears in most cultures as a way to bring people together. A local artist did a frieze of people in a settlement cooking and sharing food. He titled the work "Peacemaking." I believe this can mean both inner peace and broader aspects of external peace. It definitely adds to understanding of different cultural groups. We can see the commonalities as well as the differences. 

The selection today contains lyrics that cover social gathering and mentions a few foods along the way. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Sleigh Ride -- Debbie Gibson

  

10-360 (27/12/23) -- Relaxing Lights

Some sun appeared this morning but clouds began to fill the sky by the time I went for my walk. I had a lengthy talk with a neighbour out walking his dog. It helped me to understand some of the ins and outs of local management. There is a lot to understand like the recent question regarding snow removal and the blocking of the mail box by the street plow. No one has a clear explanation. <sigh> I'm sure things will come to light as the season wears on. 

I did some cleaning in the kitchen and packaging several bags for waste pickup next week. Pickup has been interrupted due to weather events for the previous two weeks and the Boxing Day holiday.  Some of the wrapping paper and bags were packed away. It feels strange to dig out everything for a few days each year. <smile> I tend to leave the tree up for Julian Christmas and New Year. I like the lights. They can be calming. 

I chose a song by a band whose name reminded me of the lights on my Christmas tree. The song and lyrics are fairly basic. But then, not every blog will have an outstanding song. <smile> Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Holiday Rock -- Neon Trees

10-359 (26/12/23) -- Day to Relax

The day was sunny with more clouds as the day progressed. After lunch, I headed out to the patio to move the remaining snow -- lots and lots of heavy wet snow. I wanted it off the patio before we get rain and frozen precipitation later in the week. When the temperatures drop below freezing, the wet drifts will turn to icebergs and be immovable until the y melt in the spring. It was a lot of work, but not as much as I had to move in the former abode. So, I shouldn't  complain -- well too much, perhaps. <smile> I had a long soak in the tub tonight to help ward off any painful lower back issues. I lifted with my legs and not bending my back, but with the weight that was moved, many joints may make their displeasure known. 

I enjoy Boxing Day. It is a day when one can kick back and just rest. This brief respite before returning to a regular routine for the few days before New Years Day, is much needed. I watched a movie and did minimal cooking. I let go the cleaning and other chores for today. I even had a short nap in the afternoon. I enjoyed the relaxed feel to the day. 

The title and lyrics of a song seemed to fit my focus for this day. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Take it Easy -- Eagles

 

10-358 (25/12/23) -- Together

What a bright sunny Christmas day! After lunch, I went for a walk. The temperature was well above freezing and the sun felt warm. I met a few others while out. I listened to the Christmas message from the King and read the highlights of annual messages from other leaders. A common theme dealt with kindness and working collectively for the common good. It is an idea that we hear often but perhaps more often during the holiday season. It definitely should be embraced now and continued throughout the whole year. It brings to mind the concept of building community -- something that involves recognizing the needs of people and nature in our regions and working together to address those needs. 

A song that encompasses the concept of collaboration came to mind while I was cooking my vegetable contribution to dinner tonight. Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Christmas Sing-a-Long -- Pentatonix

10-357 (24/12/23) -- Watching the Sky

It was a bright sunny day with temperatures just above freezing . That helped the snow and ice to be moveable as it didn't stick to the cement as much. I moved snow from the patio so there is a larger exit area . It is wetter so heavier than it had been, but it moved quickly. I saw a single contrail in the bright blue sky as I worked. While on the phone late afternoon, I even saw the moon. It was big and bright.  -- even saw the big moon, It has been a long time since we've seen anything due to the heavy snow laden grey clouds. It felt lighter than the past many days.  

According to the NORAD tracker, Santa flew over the house just a few minutes ago. I keep track of his journey to see when he flies over town. I have not major chimney, so he has to use his magic to direct any gifts to a closet or cupboard in the house. This is safer for the furry one <grin>.  The gifts for tomorrow evening gathering are all good to go and the prep for the fun vegetable dish has been done so things will go more quickly when cooking in the afternoon. 

In my head, I kept hearing the chorus of the selection for tonight. It is a fun song and video. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

The old man's back in town -- Kenny Rogers, Garth Brooks, & Trisha Yearwood

10-356 (23/12/23) -- Last Minute Preparations

The day began early. Given that the busiest shopping day of the year was yesterday -- a snow day in this area -- even more shoppers were expected to be out today. A friend and I went for last minute groceries. I got the final few items that hadn't been in stock last time I was out. It was fun going with someone else for a change. We went to both grocery stores and two other stores for last minute food, refreshments and gifts. The day was bright and sunny, which was a major change from the last week of heavy clouds. It helped the air feel warmer, too. The next few days are to be above freezing and sunny -- a perfect way to move into the holidays. 

My usual weekend household chores began after my return from shopping around noon. Laundry and some preparation for cooking in the next two days were completed.  This year will be a white Christmas here. We have about a 50:50 chance of this happening. We've had several green seasons in recent years, but this year is definitely white. While this isn't my favourite element of winter, I do enjoy the song selected for today. I chose a version with a fun tempo and animation that brings giggles. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

White Christmas -- The Drifters (animation by Joshua Held) 

10-355 (22/12/23) -- Productive Snow Day

We had a major snowfall overnight -- so the Thursday storm continued into Friday with considerably more snow than forecast. Instead of 2-4 cm (1-1.5 in), we got somewhere in the 15-20 cm (6-8 in). The snow came from squalls off the Gulf of St. Lawrence area northwest of here. The big winds created amazing drifts. The patio has one that is well above my knees. The street plow left a pile blocking the road to the postboxes. It was almost shoulder height. The big cleanup will occur tomorrow. Today, the street plow passed a couple of times and the loader with a snow blower attachment cleared a narrow path on each driveway -- just the width of a vehicle. 

I did a number of indoor activities after moving a pathway down the front driveway and another across the back patio. If we choose to believe the forecasts, the next few days look like some sun and cloud mix each day with no precipitation until next week. That looks like rain due to increased temperatures. So, inside I canceled the lunch planned for today and rebooked for next week. I made a big pot of stew -- a hearty dish for a blustery day. Some wrapping and a couple cards were done along with bits of cleaning.  The day was fairly productive and felt restful -- nothing needed to happen at a particular time today. <smile> 

Oddly I feel a bit fatigued this evening. I know I did some physical chores but I was thinking through the holidays while shoveling and chopping vegetables. So, there was some mental effort in the day, too. I heard a song in my head a few times during the day. It is one that I enjoy for its great acapella harmonies and the relaxing aspects of listening to this one. So -- I share it with you all here today. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Riu Chiu -- The Monkees 

 

10-354 (21/12/23) -- Changing Light

Well there was another Thursday storm. Ice disguised as snow on the front porch refused to be moved when I tried to shovel a clearing around the door. Yuck. It is still snowing and wind gusting outside my windows. I wasn't to be a huge accumulation, but that may change. We'll see what the morning brings. 

Today marked the winter solstice. It is a day to celebrate. From now on, there will be more daylight. Today was the shortest daylight hours of the year. Though, with the dark grey snow clouds the day wasn't very bright. It seemed to accentuate the darkness of the day seemed. Even a minute or two increase in the hours of light brings hope. Some people enjoy the darkness of this time of year, while others enjoy more sunlight. The continuing rhythm of changing seasons provides a sense of comfort. Happy Solstice!

The song for today celebrates the solstice by a prog rock band from the UK. Keep safe. Enjoy!  

Ring Out Solstice Bells -- Jethro Tull

10-353 (20/12/23) -- Kinder Lists

The day began with errands downtown as tomorrow may be nasty with frozen varieties of precipitation. So far this season has been the one with Monday storms, but it now appears as Monday AND Thursday storms. <sigh> 

Yesterday evening a friend shared an idea of listing accomplishments done over her day. I loved this idea. It is much more validating than usual 'to do' lists. Unless a task is on that list, it doesn't get recognized.  So, if we were to list what we did do, it might help us to understand that we didn't just sit like a lump -- well, not all day <smile> -- and did do things that are part of, if not necessary to daily life. The idea struck me as a way of being kind to ourselves. We can see what we did do, instead of chastise ourselves for what we didn't do. How cool is that? 

I decided that I would try this new way of looking at daily accomplishments -- It reminded me of list making that we hear about often at this time of year. This one has an adult twist to it. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

My Grown Up Christmas Lis -- Kelly Clarkson

10-352 (19/12/23) -- Aftermath of the Storm

I woke earlier than usual but went back to bed just to keep warm. The power went out in the nights and didn't come back until 1030 AM -- an outage of 9+ hours. The wicked winds and major rain were the cause of the outage. Power went on and off during early afternoon. I had put the  comforter from the spare bed onto m bed during the night when I began to feel cool. While it was warmer than usual outside, the dampness and slight drop in indoor temperature made it feel very chilly. It was no where near what would happen with a nor'easter and temperatures below freezing, though, which was a good thing. 

My big outing was to the eye doctor for the annual check. I took a taxi to the appointment. After things were finished, I walked to campus. Rain began as I got to the far end of campus so I headed to the first large building and put on my rain pants to walk to the other side of campus. My cords were already a bit damp and they would have been soaking wet had I not stopped to put on more rain gear. I visited with a friend and then went home to make supper. We expect more rain through tomorrow -- a lot more rain, actually. <sigh> 

I was thinking of songs that fit the chilly night experience. One newer to me came to my attention. I had no twinkling lights on the tree, though <pout>. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Cold December Night -- Michael Buble

10-351 (18/12/23) -- Finding Calm in the Tempest

It has been a busy Monday. Many errands were accomplished. The last minute grocery items have been acquired. That required trips to both grocery stores in town and a bakery.  At a postal kiosk, I dropped off the final parcel to mail and got the cards into the system, too. A pickup was just being made to take things to the central post office for sorting -- so -- good timing. <smile> 

The wind was strong when I left home. It strengthened throughout my travels and into the evening. We expect continued major gusts with some rain. Precipitation will begin into the late evening and overnight and continue for two days or so. We expect 50-75 mm (2-3 inches) over the next 24 to 36 hours. This is the fourth Monday storm in the past five weeks. On this street, our garbage, recycling and compost go out Monday night for early morning pickup on Tuesday. Needless to say with the winds, I won't be putting the waste out tonight for fear of it hefting and carrying the bags and compost bin to parts unknown. So, one more time that things will remain in the garage until the Monday storms hold out for a week or two. In the past storms have arrived on the same weekday during the winter season. The unrelenting regularity of such events becomes grating. I hope that this will not continue, but then I have little control over that one <grin>. 

I chose a softer sounding song for tonight to counteract the tempest sounds of wind and rain outside the window. The lyrics provide something to ponder and to practice. Keep well. Enjoy! 

The Secret of Christmas -- Ella Fitzgerald

10-350 (17/12/23) -- Finally Some Productivity

It has been a productive day. I got lights up on the tree and spent time with a friend as we prepared our Christmas cards for mailing. There are still a few to complete, but the bulk of them are good to go. The parcels that were wrapped yesterday, were packed into a box to mail tomorrow. A few local gifts still need to be wrapped, but there is time this week. Tomorrow I plan to do the final grocery shopping before Christmas. I need a few more ingredients for the dishes I plan to make in the next week and a bit. 

I had fun doing things today. It is nice to get decorations up and things sent off to friends and family. This are part of the traditions that we try to keep while developing new ones. I have added new vegetable dishes to my celebration meal contributions. I'd be happy with mainly veggie dishes and a bit of turkey  with a fresh roll. <smile> I love getting parcels wrapped in shiny and sparkly paper and bags. Big bows don't work well for shipping, but the smaller curling ribbon loops help to perk up a package. Sending cards helps me to keep in touch with people in many different places. 

Today a lot just came together. <smile>  A song ran through my head from wrapping yesterday and doing other things. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Pretty Paper -- Willie Nelson

10-349 (16/12/23) -- Feeling Time Pass

Today was dry for a change -- nothing falling from the sky. I wrapped some gifts and hope that they all fit into the prepaid box. I dragged out the dreaded 'vacoom' and managed to do a pass through the house. Things look a bit better. Most of the grit and salt stuck to my boots is now off the floor. I walk into the kitchen with groceries and such, doing the back and forth trips from car to house before I remove the boots.

I was thinking about time as I worked through things today. When I was downtown on the day of the major snowfall, I noticed that time was passing oddly. I did several items with longer walks in between, only to find that less time had passed than I expected. This meant that I had more time to do the next items. Again, these felt like I had used a lot of time, when I used much less. Interesting. Then when I had to wait for a ride back home, time dragged. I went from one end of the street to the other and completed an errand in the process. When I was ready to walk back the other way, much less time had passed. It felt like had to wait forever to get the hour and a half to go by. So, time can go according to what feels right and be less time which leave time to do the other things on the list. Or, time can feel like it is moving more quickly when it is actually going more slowly, leaving me to find ways to fill the time as i waited. Very weird feelings that day and for several days recently. I was reminded of a quote by Robbie Burns, "No man can tether time or tides." This made me realize that time will move as it does regardless of whether we want it to move more quickly or slow a bit. I took it also to mean that I can't control the weather and often can't get forecasts that follow though. I am in control of much less than I'd like to be <smile>. 

I thought of a song about time waiting that I share tonight. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Waiting for Christmas to Come -- Johnny Reid

10-348 (15/12/23) -- Frantic Pace Needed

The weather was kinder today. Temperatures rose and snow condensed a bit so doesn't look as deep in places. It may leave by the end of the weekend as it warms considerably. I spent the day inside after moving the snow off the patio and part of the driveway. The wind was very strong and tried to make my shovel into a sail. I was expecting to do some odd winter version of Mary Poppins as I blew down the street. 

Weather has a way of interfering with out plans. We aren't in control of as much as we might think we are. <smile>  I did move forward with making plans to visit with friends during the holiday season. It gives me something to look forward to during the weird weather events of late. <smile>  

Today the selection speaks to the gathering of people to celebrate and enjoy the holidays.  The tempo brings a frenetic-ness that reminds me of all the little things that comprise the larger parts of holiday preparation. Yet, together the group presents amazing tight harmonies -- much like working together can share the weight. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Carol of the Bells -- Pentatonix

10-347 (14/12/23) -- Snowy Entrapment

 I should have stayed in bed. <sigh> My plans to do some shopping before my appointment went sideways when the expected less than 1 cm of snow turned into 5 (2 inches) by 9:30 AM and another 5 cm fell in the next hour. Again, this was on shore flurries. Snow clearing and removal equipment did not appear. The street plow went by at 11:45 AM when the snow magically stopped and the sun came out. Driveways were somewhat cleared between 1 and 4 PM when I was downtown. 

I got a ride down the scary steep and windy hill into town. I mailed a couple of parcels -- still one to prep and go. After my appointment around 3:30, I called every cab company in town -- about 6 of them. Only one answered the phone. He was the only one working today for his company and had 8 people in front of me and no idea how long it would talk to get to me. I added my name to the list and then called locals for a potential ride home or closer to homd. I is walkable in 40+ minutes, but with all the snow I wouldn't be able to walk along the shoulder of the highway safely. There is a back way that only requires one to cross the 2-lane tertiary highway. Again, with all the snow, the trail would be less passable. I finally called my neighbour and she agreed to pick me up on her way home from work just after 5 PM. So, I wandered Main Street and stopped in stores to warm up a bit and browse. I did find a couple of things I've been looking for and then a whole lot of things to think over -- things that would fit nicely into the new place. I got a couple needed items and will think through others. So -- I spent more than planned, but that kept me warm inside today and will help keep me warm at home in the days to come. 

It was a very uncomfortable feeling knowing that there wasn't an easy way to get home today. It was a mixture of many emotions -- desperation, trapped, abandoned, frustrated, fearful, anxious, dependent  and physically so very cold. The humidity made the below freezing temperatures feel quite bitter. Once I got home the neighbour and I rushed to change for the turkey dinner celebration for the residents of the neighbourhood. It was at the big house just 2-3 blocks away. I finally got warm as I sat in the dining hall filled with tables for four.  

I came to the conclusion that someone or several someones had been playing this song too much this season. In so doing, fate chose to answer their call.  <smile> I apologize to those who, like me, find this song a tad grating. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Let it Snow -- Michael Buble 

10-346 (13/12/23) -- Seasonal Expectations

The day was mainly cloudy. My only trip outside was to pick up the mail. Most of the plans for the day didn't get off the ground. I did get some wrapping and packing of gifts that have to get mailed now. I have managed to miss the mailing deadlines yet again this year. I hope to get lights on the tree in the next day or two. Cards also need to be written and sent out before next week, too. Gift shopping is almost completed -- just a couple more small items to acquire. 

The holiday season brings a lot of stress. Everybody is madly working to get things completed by the same date. Often, I think we expect too much of ourselves. Cooking, baking, gift giving, decorating, writing notes and cards -- it all takes a lot of mental effort and energy. Much of the activity is aimed to help us keep connected with friends and family and traditions. Being in contact with many people during Christmas may be the only time each year that we check in with each other. That isn't meant to be a negative. In fact, it can be enjoyable hearing from people to hear what life had brought their way over the past year. Even if the card only reads "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year" above the signature, I find it comforting to have heard from them. Those closer to us may include exchanging gifts. I'll admit that I love this part of the season. It brings back some of the excitement from childhood. I often will open a gift each day, just to hang on to that anticipation feeling. <smile> I've cleared the top of the buffet for cards and decorations and once the tree has lights (and maybe some decorations) that will be ready for gifts. I love to sit and look at the lights at night. They bring a sense of calm and peace -- something necessary during the frenzied pace of this time of year. 

I chose a song that includes family members of the main singer after pondering aspects of the Christmas season today. The expectations sometimes lead us to overlook the importance of human connections. The translated lyrics can be found online. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Buon Natale a Tutto il Mondo -- Andrea Bocelli & Family 

10-345 (12/12/23) -- Rushing To and Fro

The day was bright and sunny -- blindingly bright at times. Temperatures fell to something more usual for this time of year. I was downtown for a while at two meetings and doing a couple errands. It was pleasant walking in the sunshine with only a bit of a breeze. 

I was early for one meeting and late for the other -- fifteen minutes off both times. Crazy. The lateness in getting a few blocks from one meeting to the second had me walking quickly. The song for today, deals with moving fast to get things done on time. <smile> Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Run, Run, Rudolph -- Lynyrd Skynyrd  

10-344 (11/12/23) -- Finding Peace

Overnight the temperatures rose to mid-teens Celsius. All traces of snow left. I could hear the water running in the eaves troughs in the night as the snow on the roof melted. By noon today, the wind was picking up. By later afternoon and into the evening, we had wind gusts of 90+ km/hr (~56+ mph). I went down to the block for the mail and then went around the block for a walk into the wind uphill and then downhill with the wind pushing me along.  

Little on the planned to do list actually got done today. I had a nap in the afternoon. I just felt tired. Listening to the wind and watching the lights flicker often, kept me a bit on edge. Feeling the house shudder in the big gusts added to the stressed feeling. Things seem to be settling a bit outside, so the night should be quieter than it was during the day. 

I chose a song that I find peaceful and relaxing. It is a favourite duo of mine. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy -- Bing Crosby & David Bowie

 

10-343 (10/12/23) -- Semi-Productive Day

After lunch today, I went for a long walk. There was very little wind, but temperatures were warmer than the past few day. It was above freezing and will be warming overnight. We expect some rain and big wind tomorrow with a cold front arriving shortly after. The quiet was soothing today as I walked. Distant traffic noise was all I heard. 

Back at the new place, I found gifts that I had packed when I moved. Nice that they were where I expected them to be. Wrapping will have to be done tomorrow, so I will be later getting the packages into the postal system.  I also put the tree up in the living room. It will sit for a day or two before I get to putting on the lights. 

The day seemed somewhat productive for a change. With the tree standing in the living room instead of boxed in the garage brought me to a song that is 65 years old this year. I share a recent video from the original singer tonight. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree -- Brenda Lee

 

10-342 (9/12/23) -- Mood Altering

The day was cloudier than forecaster noted yesterday. I didn't go out for a walk as I was busy inside. I worked away in the house doing laundry and moving things around in the living room. The latter was to make space for the tree, which I hope to get up tomorrow. Lights will come tomorrow or later. There is a lot on the list to complete tomorrow, so we will see. I want to get a couple boxes out in the mail Monday. 

Trying to get into the Christmas spirit has been challenging. I miss my old iPod and the holiday playlist. I could work away with ear buds and enjoy fun tunes in the process. I'm trying to add a few things to the daily pseudo-routine --  meals with friends, shopping for gifts, buying a couple of fun things for me , and several other things. I hope to take an evening walk when it is warmer over the next few days just to look at decorations and lights in the area. Small things should help. <smile>  

A song came to mind when thinking  of finding a holiday mood today. I recall the song as presented in a movie years ago. It is all about perking  up things and moods. Keep save. Enjoy! 

We Need a Little Christmas -- Angela Lansbury

 

10-341 (8/12/23) -- Chrimbo Deckies

The day was mainly cloudy, but there was bright sunshine for a short bit -- just as I was driving to the grocery store and having to head into the extreme brightness in the westerly sky. <smile> There was no precipitation, though the clouds looked a lot like snow. I got groceries at two stores -- still forgot one major item on the list, so will need to return in the next couple of days. <sigh> 

I'm enjoying the evergreen wreath on the front door. Many neighbours have similar wreaths and assorted greenery on their front porches. It is nice to see. I did donate my outdoor lights before moving here. Not sure why I did that, but I'll see what is on sale later and get something for next year. I'm hoping to rearrange the living room this weekend so the tree can go up in a new corner. I'm still working out how to make the living room area feel 'right'. The large open space is a challenge. As for holiday decoration, I do have the kitchen lines out and the green and holly cutwork trip table cloth on the dining table. Other things are out of the cedar chest and ready to brighten up the place this weekend.  

Adding decoration to the new place brought a song to mind. I chose a version with the lyrics set to a different tune than usual. It makes it fun. <smile>  Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Deck the Halls with Sugar Plum Fairies  -- James Lee Stanley

10-340 (7/12/23) -- A Great Walk

Some progress occurred today. I found the box with the Christmas wrapping paper in the pile in the garage. It was the second box I looked at, so wasn't the craziness I'd pictured of opening every box and it would be the final box that had what I needed. Catastrophizing a bit perhaps <smile>. 

In the afternoon,  I had an appointment downtown and planned to do stops at three businesses. So, I decided to park at the end of Main Street and walk the full length to get to one of the stores, stopping along the way at the bank and to pick up bread from a regional bakery. It felt great to walk that longer distance than I find myself doing in the new neighbourhood. And, I was walking with a purpose. The scenes around me changed as the traffic moved along and people walked along the street. There is a sense of 'bustle' that one doesn't encounter in this quieter area. It wasn't like I felt that I belonged there as I did for 25 years, but more that I was visiting the area. For whatever reason, it felt good. The walk I did downtown and onto campus yesterday felt much the same. 

The walking today felt amazing. I loved the feeling of stretching my legs with longer strides and faster pace than I often feel when walking in the new place. The air was crisp. The light breeze prompted me to put the hood up on my parka for the longer walks between stores. Overall, it was a great walking day. I chose the selection today for two reasons -- firstly the holiday that has just begun and secondly the band's name. <smile> Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Happy Hanukkah -- Walk Off the Earth ft. Scott Helman

 

10-339 (6/12/23) -- Timing Challenges

The day began with me sleeping past the alarm. I made it to my first virtual meeting, though. Had it been outside the house, I would not have managed to get there on time. I had a bit of time after the meeting before I had to leave to go to the clinic for the updated COVID vaccine. I left the house in time to drive and find a parking space downtown. However, I did not leave time to clear the 3 to 4 inches of frozen snow, rain and slush off the windshield. I had to go into the garage to dig out a scraper and brush. The 2 inches on the car roof stayed where it was. My appointment was at 2:32 PM. They were booking every 4 minutes, so the times were just weird looking. I was late, but there was a woman ahead of me waiting, so at least I didn't hold up the line. 

I ordered three items on Saturday. When the system gave me a tracking notice, I found that one item was guaranteed for delivery Friday and the other two were guaranteed for Thursday. It showed that the order was split with one item coming from a warehouse in Vancouver area and the other two from one in Montreal area. Now, the one expected on Friday left Montreal shipping centre 12 hours before the one that left the same centre but was due to be delivered Thursday. Interesting <smile>. Well, when checking my email after the virtual meeting, I found a note for one parcel being delivered at 10:04 AM (the one that was guaranteed for Friday and another parcel was delivered at 11:20 AM (the one guaranteed for Thursday. Both were delivered on Wednesday by "John", I have visions of a man just driving around town delivering one parcel at a time rather than doing them in some semblance of order. The whole process was very weird. At least I should be able to get parcels off in the mail earlier than I'd thought. At this point in the calendar, every day counts. <smile> The plan is to check the boxes in the garage to find the Christmas wrapping stuff. Then I can get everything wrapped and packed and ready for the post office hopefully Friday <fingers crossed>. 

A fun song came to mind when thinking of looking for wrapping supplies. This live version made me smile. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Wrap Me Up -- Jimmy Fallon & Meghan Trainor (on Kimmel)

  

10-338 (5/12/23) -- Fluffy Flakes Falling

When I went out the front door today, I could barely see the hills to the south. I thought it was odd as we rarely get fog in this area. As soon as I stepped out from under the overhang on the porch, I realized that the visibility was poor due to snow in the air. It had been precipitating all morning switching from big flakes, to tiny flakes to rain and back again repeatedly. I went to the mail box at the end of the street. Since there was little wind and we were in full on fluffy flake phase (say that quickly a few times <wink>), I chose to walk around the block. I sucked the envelope mail inside the flyer that also was in the box and off I went. Upon returning home my black parka was decorated with big while blotches. 

While out walking, I heard a song in my head. Bet you didn't see that coming <smile>. Now it was the first two lines that ran over and over in my mind today. There have been many covers of this song, but none like the singer I share here tonight. Frankly, it just isn't Christmas without hearing this song by this singer. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) -- Darlene Love (the version from her final performance of the song on Letterman) [keep in mind she was 73 in this performance] 

 

10-337 (4/12/23) -- Cooking Music

We had messy weather today with snow overnight that changed to rain this morning. Lots of wet slush on the road and driveways. More rain and snow are expected overnight and into tomorrow. Have I mentioned that I dislike winter weather? <smile> I pushed some slush to clear the patio and part of the driveway so I could walk out to the road with less risk of slipping or falling. 

This afternoon I made some spiced applesauce with cranberries and raisins. The apples and cranberries were locally grown. The batch produced six 250 mL (1 cup) jars. It was good to make something major like this in the new kitchen. I look forward to trying the sauce with pancakes or French toast. It also goes nicely with a dark gingerbread cake that I sometimes make in December. I'll add that to the possible holiday cooking list. 

While cooking, the Nutrcracker ballet came to mind. I heard one of the food-related dances as I worked.  I share that here but not in the usual orchestral format. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy -- Pentatonix

10-336 (3/12/23) -- Sleep & No Sleep

The weather was cold and cloudy when I went out for a short walk to mail a letter. A longer walk would have required heavier gloves or mitts than those I had to do a quick around the block. I finished the usual weekly laundry but did little else today. 

I was awake for most of the night. This happens after a vaccine for some reason. Luckily, I had nothing I'd committed to for the day. I woke later than usual having gotten to sleep early in the day. I also had a lengthy sleep late in the afternoon. Other than this sleep disruption and a mildly sore arm, few other side effects have appeared. That is a good thing <smile>. 

I chose a song to share by a Canadian -- from Saskatchewan even <smile>. I enjoy the softness of this song; it has a relaxing feel to it. The first verse fits my need to sleep and hide a bit today. The second verse is just sad and doesn't quite fit the day. Take care. Enjoy! 

River -- Joni Mitchell

10-335 (2/12/23) -- Recipient of Kindness

Something new to me happened today. I got my first ever flu vaccine. I am allergic to the preservative used in many vaccines. Over the past several years, formulations without the preservative have been produced and distributed. I began my search for a vaccine over a year ago, hoping to get one for last season. Several steps in the process pushed back. This year, I began the process earlier in the season but had no results through usual channels. Then a couple weeks ago out of the blue I got a message from a friend asking if I had been able to find one this year. She was able to arrange for me to get the vaccine at a mobile clinic that was in town today. 

I was extremely stressed when I arrived at the clinic. Everyone was so amazing. The RN who gave me the shot went above and beyond. He showed me the syringe (a single dose format) and the papers that accompanied it. He noted it didn't say it was XXX-free, but clearly noted the area where it said the preservative was only in the multi-dose vials. He also noted that earlier in the day, they called the distribution centre to double-check that it was what I needed. So, my plan to ask to see the dose and information wasn't needed. He also suggested that I wait 30 minutes instead of the usual 15 after the vaccine to ensure there is no issue developing. I was going to tell them that I was staying longer, but they beat me to it. <smile> It hurt a bit on injection, but I was very tense and that creates greater discomfort. I had a great conversation with the nurse while I waited since no one else was waiting for a vaccine. 

Overall the experience was great. I encountered amazing kindness to get to the clinic and at the clinic today. I was pleased to see people who enjoyed their jobs and spent time looking outward rather than inward. It made me smile and by the time I left to drive home, I felt very relaxed. 

The song chosen today deals with the expansion of kindness during the holiday season. I know there are people who carry this through the whole year. I met some today. <smile> Keep safe. Enjoy! 

A Change at Christmas -- The Flaming Lips

 

10-334 (1/12/23) -- Let's Hide from Winter

A new month began today. How did that happen so quickly? I walked in the mix of sun and cloud. The wind was a bit 'fresh' but not biting as it has been in the past week. I spent time looking at how people are decorating the outside of their places for the holidays. Some places look like everything is done and others are in progress. Many (like mine) haven't begun the process. Soon. <smile>   

The blog began with a challenge to do what I'd been doing annually durng December for a whole year. Well, with different music than I used for the one month <smile> Now, I will revert to the December-related tunes for this month. 

I chatted with the head builder for the complex today. He and I agreed that we'd rather never see snow. And yet, here we are in a northern climate on the Atlantic coast so snow comes a meter at a time. It hasn't yet been that bad, but our winter begins in earnest by the end of December. So, major snowfall is not far off. I'd happily go somewhere warmer for the next three months just to hide from it all. A recently released song speaks to the idea that the holiday season may not really require snow to work. <grin>. Keep safe. Enjoy! 

Better than Snow -- Norah Jones & Laufey