Hogan and I are up early again this morning despite the late night last night and the sun is making a valiant effort to shine through the clouds. Oh how I wish the clouds would just go away!!
The kids are still in bed so I have some quiet time this morning. Once they are up, I know Casey will be hungry and will want breakfast. I will have to walk to the store and pickup eggs and bacon and some side pork for him. He loves side pork so I will fry him up some as a special treat this morning.
With the kids up and breakfast out of the way, Casey and John start changing the bad springs and shocks on the Sami. It is a dirty job as the mud is still on the truck from John's and my trail ride Friday. Someone told me that the car wash here in town was not working so we didn't bother taking it over. I found out later that it indeed is working and the guys could have been working on a much cleaner truck!! Oh Well, no big deal!!
With the job finally done, Casey and Tori had to eat supper then head back to Saskatoon as Tori's sister was coming for a visit. It was good to see the kids, even if it was only for a day. Maybe their next visit will be longer!!
Dave and Shirley came over for a visit while the kids were here and stayed for a while after they left. We started a campfire to discourage the lousy mosquitoes (which had taken to Roxy with a vengeance - she was covered with bites!!) Gary returned from a day of fishing and he came and joined us at the fire for a while too. What a great way to finish off the day - campfire and friends.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Sunday, May 29/2011
The phone rang at 0600 this morning and that can only mean one thing. I am headed back to work!!
Another 12 hours under my belt and although my back is not quite as sore today, I am glad it is over. I walked out of the nursing home and who do I see driving by but Casey and Tori with Roxy and Hogan in the back seat. They are headed to the store for ice - the beer needs to be cooled down. Does that mean we are partying tonight?
Yes, it does!! After several refreshments, it was time for bed. Twelve hour shifts and vodka do not mix all that well!! I am too old for this kind of nonsense!!
Another 12 hours under my belt and although my back is not quite as sore today, I am glad it is over. I walked out of the nursing home and who do I see driving by but Casey and Tori with Roxy and Hogan in the back seat. They are headed to the store for ice - the beer needs to be cooled down. Does that mean we are partying tonight?
Yes, it does!! After several refreshments, it was time for bed. Twelve hour shifts and vodka do not mix all that well!! I am too old for this kind of nonsense!!
Saturday, May 28/2011
It is dreary and chilly this morning so what better way to spend the day, but at work. Might just as well make a few bucks today so that when and if it ever warms up and stays warm, I won't have to worry about going to work. I can play instead!!
Back home and tired. Man those 12 hour shifts can be brutal!! I am so out of shape. There is a possibility that I may be called in to work tomorrow as well so I had better get to bed and rest up!!
John spent the day mucking around outside. Shirley brought him over a loaf of home baked bread and a loaf of raisin bread. What a spoiled brat he is!! I am the one doing all the work and he gets the rewards!!
I am going to bed!!
Back home and tired. Man those 12 hour shifts can be brutal!! I am so out of shape. There is a possibility that I may be called in to work tomorrow as well so I had better get to bed and rest up!!
John spent the day mucking around outside. Shirley brought him over a loaf of home baked bread and a loaf of raisin bread. What a spoiled brat he is!! I am the one doing all the work and he gets the rewards!!
I am going to bed!!
Friday, May 27/2011
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| Heading out on the trail |
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| Beverage? |
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| What, snow! |
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| Getting a little mud on the tires |
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| Stylin! |
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| Oh Ya! |
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| Winch Wench |
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| Snowmobile warm up shelter |
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| Deer Lake |
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| Hogans turn to have fun |
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| Good Boy! |
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| Again with the winch! |
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| Back home |
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| Another fun day on the trail |
I waited to hear if either of the boys were coming up to visit and, since I got no word and staffing called asking if I could work tomorrow I agreed to do so. That being decided, John and I took to the trails today.
It was so good to get back out into the forest and enjoy all that this area has to offer. The first trail we attempted was blocked by huge water and in all likelihood, had a muddy bottom. It was far too early for me to get wet and muddy so we turned around and found another trail that was suitably dry. We eventually got into "the block" and that is where the fun began. We travelled Lilac Trail and OH MY LORD was there a few good mud holes. I just happen to be the best winch wench in this area. The Sami worked beautifully and once we had mud on the tires, John found out where the front tire was leaking from. As he suspected, it is around the bead so that is an easy fix.
Hogan loved being back out on the trails too. He went for a mile long run through the mud and water then was rewarded with a game of fetch the stick out of Deer Lake and get cleaned up while you are at it!! Too bad the Sami doesn't know how to fetch!!
We got home in time to watch the last period of the hockey game and now it is Boston against Vancouver in the Stanley Cup Finals.
We had a great day today and as the saying goes.... all good things must come to an end - so, I had better get to bed as I work in the morning.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Thursday, May 26/2011
I am up early and heading to work. I had no real plans to do anything today anyway so I might just as well head over there and make a few bucks for our "Arizona Fund". This way, when I am "over budget" down there I can use my work money to ease the pain!! (I had better work lots!!)
Back from work and although I still struggle with being on my feet for 12 hours, it feels good to be back at work. The ladies I work with are awesome and the residents are all pretty cool. It is really a wonderful "summer" job and the best part is that I continue to add hours to my five year total to maintain my RN registration. I truly am living the life!! Work when I want, fish when I want and eventually ride the trails when I want. What could be better?
John changed the fluids on the Sami and now I think it is pretty much ready for the trails. Oh, I can't wait to smell the forest.
Headed to bed to watch So You Think You Can Dance. I might as well "bust a move" before I fall to sleep!!
Back from work and although I still struggle with being on my feet for 12 hours, it feels good to be back at work. The ladies I work with are awesome and the residents are all pretty cool. It is really a wonderful "summer" job and the best part is that I continue to add hours to my five year total to maintain my RN registration. I truly am living the life!! Work when I want, fish when I want and eventually ride the trails when I want. What could be better?
John changed the fluids on the Sami and now I think it is pretty much ready for the trails. Oh, I can't wait to smell the forest.
Headed to bed to watch So You Think You Can Dance. I might as well "bust a move" before I fall to sleep!!
Wednesday, May 25/2011
The sun is shining this morning and my tomato plants in the garden are still looking pretty sad. They were frosted upon the night before last and I fear are pretty much toast. I will have to replant them. Maybe I will wait for a week or so as there were frost warnings again last night. And to think, Keith and Charlotte are probably sitting in 90 degree weather, wishing for cooler temperatures!!
I walked over to the laundromat and did a couple of load of laundry then walked to the town office to purchase a dog license. Hogan is now officially dog number "97". They even engraved his name and phone number on the back of his tag!! He is now walking around like he has a medal on his collar!!
I cooked the fish that I caught yesterday for supper and man was it delicious. Oh how I missed that "taste of Saskatchewan". Hopefully, there will be plenty more where that came from.
The hockey game was not the outcome I would have hoped for however, Boston has one more chance to redeem themselves and get into the finals. Go Boston Go!!
I am scheduled to work tomorrow so I must head to bed and get my beauty rest!!
I walked over to the laundromat and did a couple of load of laundry then walked to the town office to purchase a dog license. Hogan is now officially dog number "97". They even engraved his name and phone number on the back of his tag!! He is now walking around like he has a medal on his collar!!
I cooked the fish that I caught yesterday for supper and man was it delicious. Oh how I missed that "taste of Saskatchewan". Hopefully, there will be plenty more where that came from.
The hockey game was not the outcome I would have hoped for however, Boston has one more chance to redeem themselves and get into the finals. Go Boston Go!!
I am scheduled to work tomorrow so I must head to bed and get my beauty rest!!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Tuesday, May 24/2011
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| Shell Lake |
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| Beautiful sunny day |
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| Look close for the Blue Huron |
I had blown the breaker in Gary's house late last night (I plugged the toaster in while the heater was running, and that is just way to much demand for that socket), so we were on "desert" power until we went to bed. This morning I phoned over and got him to turn it back on so now I can make some coffee without having to pull out the old perc I was using in Arizona. Life is good.
John worked on the Sami again today. Now we have door panels where once there was ugly red tape!! I cleaned the dash and the cargo area so things are looking pretty spiffy.
I took the weed bar to the dandelions again - Gary mentioned that I appeared to have a hate on for dandelions!! I did his dandelions again along with the ones in our next door neighbor's yard as well. It will be interesting to see what the results of my labour is next year as to how many of the invasive little plants return.
Gary came over and asked if I wanted to go fishing again today. He wanted to take the boat into Shell Lake and try for some jack fish. With John busy on the Sami and nothing really planned for the rest of the day, I headed out to the lake. By the end of the fishing trip, we had managed to catch eight fish but only kept three. The other five were fairly skinny and were released so that they could grow bigger over the summer and we could catch them again in the fall!! Eat lots, little fishes!! Gary filleted the fish before we came home and had we been able to keep more of the fish we caught, I would have taken a crack at it as well. I might just as well learn for the pros!! Next time!!
Before I left, I gave John instructions on cooking the chicken in the roaster on the BBQ so that when I returned, we could eat supper. He had the chicken done and it tasted great. I put the fish in the freezer for a later date.
The hockey game went into overtime but the results were great for Canada. Vancouver Canucks are now in the Stanley Cup Finals. Yeah!!!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Monday, May 23/2011
Although it did not rain anymore during the night, it is dreary this morning and it is chilly in the bus. I could see my breath when I let Hogan out!! I plugged in the heater to take the chill off the air and made coffee. It is time to catch up on the blog. I have been a bit lax with it the last few days so I had better pull up my socks.
It remained dreary for most of the day but had started to warm up around noon. John went out to finish off the winch, found he had a loose wire and that is why things weren't working working properly, imagine that!!
Gary and Dave wandered over and said that they were going to go fishing for a few hours and did I want to go. Of course, I wanted to go so we got ready and headed out - hoping to get some trout.
Of the four of us, one was fly fishing, one bobbing and two were casting - no one received anything that resembled a bite. The fish were jumping around the hooks but certainly had no intentions of being in a frying pan tonight.
We came home empty handed!! Good thing I have spaghetti in the cupboard!!
It remained dreary for most of the day but had started to warm up around noon. John went out to finish off the winch, found he had a loose wire and that is why things weren't working working properly, imagine that!!
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| Dave |
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| Shirley |
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| Poplar Lake |
Of the four of us, one was fly fishing, one bobbing and two were casting - no one received anything that resembled a bite. The fish were jumping around the hooks but certainly had no intentions of being in a frying pan tonight.
We came home empty handed!! Good thing I have spaghetti in the cupboard!!
Sunday, May 22/2011
Another sunny day seems to be in store for us today. I looked out the windows and still I see too many yellow dandelion flowers looking back at me. I cheaped out on the weedkiller yesterday and I guess I should have known better. It is a good thing I bought a weed bar (just in case I needed it) as I will now have to drag it over the remaining weeds.
I finished off in our yard and the town property in front of the yard, then took it over to Gary's yard and did his as well. There is no point trying to control dandelions in my yard, if the neighbors don't care about controlling them in their yards. Eventually, got that done then settled in the shade for a cup of coffee. Well, I can practically hear the dandelions crying - they are starting to droop and look pretty darn sad!! Die, you dirty dogs, die!!
John started changing the winches around on the trucks. We need one that works properly so that we can go out onto the trails. Now that he has installed the new starter in the Sami, we are almost ready to hit the trails. We do however, need a winch - just in case.
The hockey game started early today, and that is a good thing because when John finally came out of the sun, he looked like he was going to have a stroke. His face was scarlet and he was looking awful. This was definitely NOT the time to take his blood pressure!! After I gave him shit for being a fool. we watched the game, staying inside until the sun was chased away by clouds that looked like they were bringing rain - a mighty reprieve from the heat and oh so good for the garden - speaking of which, still required the planting of four more rows.
With rain clouds threatening, I headed out, eventually finishing the job while the rain was falling. I was soaked by the time I was done but at least the garden is now fully planted and the rain is making it happy!!! Another job well done and another day well spent!!
I finished off in our yard and the town property in front of the yard, then took it over to Gary's yard and did his as well. There is no point trying to control dandelions in my yard, if the neighbors don't care about controlling them in their yards. Eventually, got that done then settled in the shade for a cup of coffee. Well, I can practically hear the dandelions crying - they are starting to droop and look pretty darn sad!! Die, you dirty dogs, die!!
John started changing the winches around on the trucks. We need one that works properly so that we can go out onto the trails. Now that he has installed the new starter in the Sami, we are almost ready to hit the trails. We do however, need a winch - just in case.
The hockey game started early today, and that is a good thing because when John finally came out of the sun, he looked like he was going to have a stroke. His face was scarlet and he was looking awful. This was definitely NOT the time to take his blood pressure!! After I gave him shit for being a fool. we watched the game, staying inside until the sun was chased away by clouds that looked like they were bringing rain - a mighty reprieve from the heat and oh so good for the garden - speaking of which, still required the planting of four more rows.
With rain clouds threatening, I headed out, eventually finishing the job while the rain was falling. I was soaked by the time I was done but at least the garden is now fully planted and the rain is making it happy!!! Another job well done and another day well spent!!
Saturday, May 21/2011
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| First fire of the year on our lot! |
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| Marie and Hogan enjoying |
Once it hit 9 a.m. I walked to the store to pick up a few things. Bread was still on sale for 10/$1.00 so I picked up 10 loaves then walked them across the road to Dave and Shirley's freezer. She offered us space so I took advantage of the offer.
I met Bayne over there and he said his Mom was going to the nursery and was planning on stopping to see if I wanted to go. Bonus, I need tomato plants for the garden.
Once back at the bus, I sat in the shade with a cup of coffee. It is so warm out and sitting in the shade was awesome. If only I didn't have to look at all those stinking dandelions!! I swear to God, the town folks are going to kick us out of town if we don't do something about them!!
Gary came over to join me and mentioned that he had to drive into Spiritwood today. Hello!!! I asked if I could ride with him as I needed to get dandelion killer. Already I could hear the screaming demise of those hideous weeds!!
Bayne's Mom did come by and ask if I wanted to go to the nursery but since the Spiritwood trip was more important, I just asked her to pick me up some tomatoes instead. She said she would and left, but, not before dropping off a rhubarb pie for John. Yea, that's right, I do all the work and he gets the pie!!
With my return from Spiritwood, weedkiller and fishing license in hand, I got to work on the dandelions. It was still hot out and ideal for spraying the weeds. It was still to hot to start the planting of the garden as I have no desire to suffer heat stroke!! Maybe, I will just sit and have a beer!!
Eventually, the sun did go behind the clouds and I was able to start the planting. In no time at all, Shirley was home from work and between the two of us, finished all but four rows, which I can certainly do on my own tomorrow.
We started a fire and enjoyed that while the baked potatoes cooked. It was a beautiful evening - warm and no wind. Eventually, the steak was ready and it was time to eat. Bed soon followed and that was the end of a very busy day.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Wednesday, May 18/2011
I awoke this morning to the sounds of the garbage truck making its rounds throughout the town today. Gee, and I thought Monday was garbage day - guess I was wrong!!. I quickly got dressed (no more running around in my pink pyjama desert outfit!!) and got the garbage can out to the front street before they arrived.
While out there, I met Shirley from across the street. She was on her way to work in Spiritwood but stopped to welcome us back to town. She got a job at one of the local stores last fall and is enjoying it immensely. She sounded happy and mentioned that Dave had surgery on his shoulder and although he is doing well, his shoulder will never be the same again. I guess that is the price we pay for aging!!
We spent a quiet day, just relaxing and getting ourselves wrapped around "town" living again. The grass needs to be cut and there is definitely something that has to be done with all the bloody dandelions on the property. It is embarrassing to see all this yellow in amongst the green.
We wandered over to Dave and Shirley's tonight and chatted with them for a while. They had bought a chiminea and it had not been used as yet so we had to rectify that little situation. Shirley had decided that she wants a garden so I offered her mine (we can share!!) so that means it needs rototilling. I have plenty of seeds so she won't have to purchase any. Bedding plants and seed potatoes are all that is needed.
We eventually wandered back across the street and headed to bed. Lots to do tomorrow.
While out there, I met Shirley from across the street. She was on her way to work in Spiritwood but stopped to welcome us back to town. She got a job at one of the local stores last fall and is enjoying it immensely. She sounded happy and mentioned that Dave had surgery on his shoulder and although he is doing well, his shoulder will never be the same again. I guess that is the price we pay for aging!!
We spent a quiet day, just relaxing and getting ourselves wrapped around "town" living again. The grass needs to be cut and there is definitely something that has to be done with all the bloody dandelions on the property. It is embarrassing to see all this yellow in amongst the green.
We wandered over to Dave and Shirley's tonight and chatted with them for a while. They had bought a chiminea and it had not been used as yet so we had to rectify that little situation. Shirley had decided that she wants a garden so I offered her mine (we can share!!) so that means it needs rototilling. I have plenty of seeds so she won't have to purchase any. Bedding plants and seed potatoes are all that is needed.
We eventually wandered back across the street and headed to bed. Lots to do tomorrow.
Thursday, May 19/2011
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| Home on our lot in Leoville, Sask |
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| Getting the garden rototilled |
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| Thanks Beef! |
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| Beef and Marie heading out to plant Beef's garden |
I borrowed Gary's lawn mower and started cutting the dandelions and found that within a few swipes of the lawn, the grass catcher was full and needed emptying. Man, that cut grass is heavy. After two stops to empty the catcher, the recoil went on the mower so I returned it to Gary and headed across the street to Dave's. They had offered theirs for our use as well. (Good thing we settled beside some friendly generous neighbors!!) With the mowing finally done, Bayne showed up with his rototiller and tackled the garden. By this time, the sun was beating down rather mercilessly and we required a few shade breaks. Cold water was in much needed demand. Yes, it was just water!!
Bayne and I had agreed to plant his Mom's garden this afternoon when she got off work so he only made one pass over the garden with the tiller before it was time to head over there. Once Gail got home from work, she told us where she wanted things planted (she has very specific areas where she wants stuff planted!!), and Bayne and I got to work. Gale was tired as it was very busy at the store so she was relegated to Supervisor and Bayne and I did the manual labor. Charley came home from school so he was enlisted to help as well. Three hours later, the garden is planted and the strawberry plants were also nestled into the soil. It looked awesome and Gale was so pleased. That alone made battling the killer, unrelenting mosquitoes worth while.
By the time I got back to the bus, Dave had come over and the guys had just finished moving the storage trailer around and the three of them (John, Dave and Gary) where sitting around the picnic table having a beer. Dave had returned earlier from his physio treatment in Saskatoon and had picked me up some dandelion killer so now I had another job for tomorrow.
We had our first fire in the firepit tonight while we were waiting for the finale of The Mentalist. With supper cooked and consumed, and the TV shows done, I showered the garden dirt off me and went to bed. It was a busy day and I am tired - thank the heavens for tylenol!!
Friday, May 20/2011
It is going to be another glorious day today. The sun is shining and the birds are singing which, reminds me that I have yet to get the bird feeders out and set up for my fine feathered friends.. Boy, am I lazy!!
This is the start of the long weekend and I have really no idea if we are getting any company or not. I assume Jace is still farming and who knows what Caseman is up to. I really should text him just to give myself a "heads up".
Bayne came over and started on the rototilling again and while he was doing that, John and I moved the two little trucks. Had we not done this, the garden would have been planted and the trucks would have been trapped - not that John would have had any issues about driving over the newly planted garden!! I fear it would have been me with the issues!!
I started pulling the quack grass from along the back fence and was almost done before I was to head into Spiritwood with Bayne to pick up more dandelion killer. Just then, I got a call from staffing to ask if I could take over a shift at the nursing home. Someone was ill and unable to complete the shift. So...there went my trip to Spiritwood and the dandelions got another reprieve. As much as I need to work to maintain my registration, I really was disappointed about the cancelled trip. Oh well - Hi Ho Hi Ho, It's off to work I go!!!
It was good to get back into work mode and although I was a bit late getting off, I felt quite comfortable there. I thought I would have been a bit rusty but a lot of the info came back to me once I was in that environment. It was a good shift.
While I was at work, John decided to get the new starter into the Samurai. That being done, maybe we could actually go for a little spin out on the trails this weekend. Who knows.
Back at the bus, I was tired and quite stiff from all the physical labor that I had been up to over the last couple of days and I was not used to being "on duty" (ie, on my feet) for 7 1/2 hours at a time. The old saying, the old grey mare, she aint what she used to be kept rolling through my head!! I took some tylenol and went to bed - someone had to plant that garden tomorrow!! I went to sleep with the sounds of someone in town partying, complete with music and karaoke - oh, if I only had the energy to party.... The old grey mare......zzzzzzzz
This is the start of the long weekend and I have really no idea if we are getting any company or not. I assume Jace is still farming and who knows what Caseman is up to. I really should text him just to give myself a "heads up".
Bayne came over and started on the rototilling again and while he was doing that, John and I moved the two little trucks. Had we not done this, the garden would have been planted and the trucks would have been trapped - not that John would have had any issues about driving over the newly planted garden!! I fear it would have been me with the issues!!
I started pulling the quack grass from along the back fence and was almost done before I was to head into Spiritwood with Bayne to pick up more dandelion killer. Just then, I got a call from staffing to ask if I could take over a shift at the nursing home. Someone was ill and unable to complete the shift. So...there went my trip to Spiritwood and the dandelions got another reprieve. As much as I need to work to maintain my registration, I really was disappointed about the cancelled trip. Oh well - Hi Ho Hi Ho, It's off to work I go!!!
It was good to get back into work mode and although I was a bit late getting off, I felt quite comfortable there. I thought I would have been a bit rusty but a lot of the info came back to me once I was in that environment. It was a good shift.
While I was at work, John decided to get the new starter into the Samurai. That being done, maybe we could actually go for a little spin out on the trails this weekend. Who knows.
Back at the bus, I was tired and quite stiff from all the physical labor that I had been up to over the last couple of days and I was not used to being "on duty" (ie, on my feet) for 7 1/2 hours at a time. The old saying, the old grey mare, she aint what she used to be kept rolling through my head!! I took some tylenol and went to bed - someone had to plant that garden tomorrow!! I went to sleep with the sounds of someone in town partying, complete with music and karaoke - oh, if I only had the energy to party.... The old grey mare......zzzzzzzz
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Tuesday, May 17/2011
It is rather a gloomy day in Leoville today, the sun is hiding behind an overcast sky. There is very little wind today and if the sun can actually find its way out from behind the clouds, it will be hot. It is early yet so there is time.
It is peaceful here, the town is just waking up. The birds are singing and all seems well with this little corner of the world. I must get the bird feeders up today and let the staffing office know I am back so that I can grab a few shifts at the Old Folks Home here in town. The nurses at the home must be ready for a break by now and I can certainly help them out with that.
The sun did come out today and Hogan and I took advantage of it. We went for a long walk and ended up outside of the town. It was great but I had forgot to put insect repellent on and the mosquitoes were pretty nasty. I will not forget the bug spray again!!
I stopped at the post office to let them know that we were back in town and pick up whatever mail had come for us. Thankfully, I had let them know that John and I would not be around for the winter so there was really very little for us.
Once back at the bus, I got the garbage can out and checked our storage trailer for any winter leaks and was pleased to find none. Everything we left here was just as we had left it so that is a good thing.
I made an awesome stew for supper, walked to the store for a few things then John and I settled down to watch the hockey game (we are cheering for different teams!!) and some of the season finales that are on TV tonight.
All in all, a good day here in Northern Saskatchewan.
It is peaceful here, the town is just waking up. The birds are singing and all seems well with this little corner of the world. I must get the bird feeders up today and let the staffing office know I am back so that I can grab a few shifts at the Old Folks Home here in town. The nurses at the home must be ready for a break by now and I can certainly help them out with that.
The sun did come out today and Hogan and I took advantage of it. We went for a long walk and ended up outside of the town. It was great but I had forgot to put insect repellent on and the mosquitoes were pretty nasty. I will not forget the bug spray again!!
I stopped at the post office to let them know that we were back in town and pick up whatever mail had come for us. Thankfully, I had let them know that John and I would not be around for the winter so there was really very little for us.
Once back at the bus, I got the garbage can out and checked our storage trailer for any winter leaks and was pleased to find none. Everything we left here was just as we had left it so that is a good thing.
I made an awesome stew for supper, walked to the store for a few things then John and I settled down to watch the hockey game (we are cheering for different teams!!) and some of the season finales that are on TV tonight.
All in all, a good day here in Northern Saskatchewan.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Monday, May 16/2011
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| Roxy's first swim |
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| A little panic setting in! |
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| Grab hold I'll get you back to shore! |
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| Safe and sound on dry ground |
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| I'll get it |
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| Casey and Roxy |
Someone needs to tell the weatherman to "stop it" with the wind!! It is blowing worse than yesterday.... there is sunshine though!! There are white caps on the water and the blowing dust is nasty. It does not look like a good day to travel - DAMN.
Casey and Tori came over to pick up the little truck. I have no desire to shop anymore and so he can have it back. I have done all the running I am going to be doing. It is time to move up North to Leoville.
Tori and I walked down to the water's edge but the wind was blowing so bad, we took shelter behind the ski ramp and sat there and watched the dogs run around like fools. Casey eventually wandered out and started throwing a stick in the water for Hogan to retrieve and in no time at all, Roxy was in the water and learning how to swim. She was quite awkward at first but actually did very well for the first time in water. I remember when Hogan first started swimming with Coors and he showed the same awkwardness.
When we finally wandered back to the bus, Casey noted that the satellite dish was stowing and that is a sure sign we were leaving. YEAH!!! Finally!!It is a good thing that I can have this bus road ready in a few short minutes because we were headed down the road within 20 minutes. Wind or no wind, we were finally going home to Leoville.
The trip to Leoville was uneventful and both John and I were surprised at just how green it was. The trees seem to be a few weeks ahead of the trees in Saskatoon. There is a ton of water everywhere and we saw several "road closed" signs along the way. The road from Shell Lake to Spiritwood is starting to have issues but the road from Spiritwood to Leoville has even bigger ones!! Holy Smokes, the winter is not very kind to the roads and they are in need of re-surfacing.
Once back in Leoville, I get out to direct John in the backing up of the trailer and get attacked by a swarm of mosquitos!! Welcome to Saskatchewan!! It is a good thing that I bought a few more cans of mosquito repelent!!
With the jeep unloaded and the bus parked, we finally sat down and had a victory beer. Our journey from Wickenburg, Arizona to Leoville, Saskatchewan was finally over. We are home.
Our next door neighbor Gary came over to welcome us home and Beef and Charley came over as well. We caught up on some of the news then it was time for supper and then bed. I will sleep peacefully tonight - I am home.
Sunday, May 15/2011
Sunshine and wind - that is how the day is shaping up. The wind is getting to be more common than not. I made a quick trip over to Walmart to get a battery for John's watch and the wind was kicking up all kinds of dust and debris in the parking lot. It was a mad house there and I couldn't get out of that place fast enough!!
Once back at the bus, I settled into my novel while John was busy on the computer. There is a hockey game tonight and the finale to Survivor so that will take up the evening.
Despite the wind, there are several boats on the lake today and it is rather odd that there is only one boat on the lake at a time. I wonder if that is a rule as the lake itself is so small. Who know, but it does supply us with a bit of entertainment.
Yeah!!! Boston Rob FINALLY won Survivor!!
Once back at the bus, I settled into my novel while John was busy on the computer. There is a hockey game tonight and the finale to Survivor so that will take up the evening.
Despite the wind, there are several boats on the lake today and it is rather odd that there is only one boat on the lake at a time. I wonder if that is a rule as the lake itself is so small. Who know, but it does supply us with a bit of entertainment.
Yeah!!! Boston Rob FINALLY won Survivor!!
Saturday, May 14/2011*
Awoke to sunshine again this morning and by the looks of the forecast, it is going to be nice for the next four days!! I just may be able to get the shorts and tank tops back out!!
While checking out facebook this morning, Gale was on "chat" so we chatted and now I am headed to Peavy Mart to pick up seed for her garden.
Once back at the bus, I assumed we would be heading to Leoville. Silly me, I should have asked John about that as he has other plans!!
We are staying here for the weekend and will see what Monday brings.
Being that it was nice out (except for the infernal wind) we planned on the Saturday night special - steak and baked potatoes. We sat outside and enjoyed the evening, had a few refreshments, ate and headed to bed.
A very quiet day.
While checking out facebook this morning, Gale was on "chat" so we chatted and now I am headed to Peavy Mart to pick up seed for her garden.
Once back at the bus, I assumed we would be heading to Leoville. Silly me, I should have asked John about that as he has other plans!!
We are staying here for the weekend and will see what Monday brings.
Being that it was nice out (except for the infernal wind) we planned on the Saturday night special - steak and baked potatoes. We sat outside and enjoyed the evening, had a few refreshments, ate and headed to bed.
A very quiet day.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Wednesday, May 11/2011
Being that we had brought the little truck home last night, I decided that I should really get my rear in gear and do the rest of the running that needed to be done before we head up North to Leoville.
First stop was Jan's for coffee and to throw a load of laundry into her machine. Ron was home so I got the have a chat with him as well. They had been busy yesterday putting in a sump pump as the Spring ground water was starting to become a problem for them in their basement. Now the situation is rectified and they no longer have to worry about the basement flooding. That alone must be a huge stress relief.
I did all the running I needed to do then headed back to the bus.
It had rained at the farm yesterday so Jace ended up coming home for the night and part of today so he came over for a quick visit along with Cody and Tyler. I think John and I have been entertaining someone almost every day since we have been back!! I love seeing ALL my kids!!
While visiting, Jace got a delivery of "thinking of you, Kimberly" T-shirts and John and I ended up buying one for each of us. The t-shirts were designed for Kim who is currently battling lymphoma and unable to work while going through all her chemotherapy. These shirts are purchased for $20.00 with some of the proceeds going to cancer research but, the bulk of it goes to Jill and her family to help with expenses. Another good cause and I am so proud of all our "kids" as they are buying the t-shirts up so quickly, they are on back order!! Hell, Tyler got five of them yesterday - one for every day of work!!
Once to boys left, John and I continued to sit outside enjoying the last of the sunshine which decided to shine while the boys were here. Then it was time to head inside for supper and TV. Another great day.
Tuesday, May 10/2011
OMG!! Is that really the sun? The sky is blue and the sun is shining!! Wow, I think I will dance!! Even Hogan is anxious to get outside!!
Jace called from the farm. They are busy seeding and says that it is a good thing they have tractors with tracks as the ground is still pretty wet and there would be no way a tractor with tires would be able to make it around the field. They have managed to get stuck a few times even with the tracks!! He sounded happy so that is good.
I am supposed to make potato salad for tonight's bbq so I really should get into gear but first I think I will just sit and have a coffee and enjoy the sunshine.
Tori and Casey came to pick me up for grocery shopping. They had to pick stuff up for the party and I of course can always shop for groceries. With the groceries bought, we headed over to their new house. I needed a tour. It is half a duplex and there are laminated floors through out. Three bedrooms and an open basement. Roxy had the run of a large fenced yard, so that will keep her busy for the summer. With the tour over, I headed back to the bus to finish the potato salad. Larry had come for a visit and it was too bad we had to be gone so quickly because it would have been nice to sit and chat with him as we have not seen him since Arizona.
With the little truck loaded to the roof, we headed over to the bbq. Being rush hour, John took a most convoluted route to get there (all the time cursing about the traffic) but eventually we made it - late - as usual.
The evening was great. We were able to catch up on the lives of lots of our "kids". I missed them all when we were gone. John ended up cooking the burgers and smokies and because everyone had brought something, there was plenty of food. Now the kids have lots of leftovers and I won't have to worry about them for a week of so!!
We managed to catch the last of the hockey game then headed back to the bus when it was over. It was time to let the kids party without us two old goats!! It was fun though but the bed was calling!!
Jace called from the farm. They are busy seeding and says that it is a good thing they have tractors with tracks as the ground is still pretty wet and there would be no way a tractor with tires would be able to make it around the field. They have managed to get stuck a few times even with the tracks!! He sounded happy so that is good.
I am supposed to make potato salad for tonight's bbq so I really should get into gear but first I think I will just sit and have a coffee and enjoy the sunshine.
Tori and Casey came to pick me up for grocery shopping. They had to pick stuff up for the party and I of course can always shop for groceries. With the groceries bought, we headed over to their new house. I needed a tour. It is half a duplex and there are laminated floors through out. Three bedrooms and an open basement. Roxy had the run of a large fenced yard, so that will keep her busy for the summer. With the tour over, I headed back to the bus to finish the potato salad. Larry had come for a visit and it was too bad we had to be gone so quickly because it would have been nice to sit and chat with him as we have not seen him since Arizona.
With the little truck loaded to the roof, we headed over to the bbq. Being rush hour, John took a most convoluted route to get there (all the time cursing about the traffic) but eventually we made it - late - as usual.
The evening was great. We were able to catch up on the lives of lots of our "kids". I missed them all when we were gone. John ended up cooking the burgers and smokies and because everyone had brought something, there was plenty of food. Now the kids have lots of leftovers and I won't have to worry about them for a week of so!!
We managed to catch the last of the hockey game then headed back to the bus when it was over. It was time to let the kids party without us two old goats!! It was fun though but the bed was calling!!
Monday, May 9/2011
It looks like it is going to be another dreary day today. There is heavy cloud coverage and the sun is not very likely to make an appearance. Boo Hiss!!
John's Mom came by for a visit today with her friend Georgie. We have not seen them since they arrived at the campsite outside of Wickenburg. Of course they got lost trying to find us parked here beside the lake but after two phone calls finally managed to arrive. Man, it boggles the mind how these two can drive all the way to Arizona, through some of the largest cities in North America and can't find us sitting by a lake in Saskatoon!!
We had a good chat with the girls and I gave Mom the four fridge magnets she had asked me to buy (as she could not find the ones she had bought). It just so happened that she had found the ones she bought and now had plenty!! Two cups of coffee later, the girls were headed out the door heading back home to watch the hockey game - hoping they did not get lost on the way!!
Tyler (one of Jace's friends) stopped by with his youngest son Dylan. The last time we saw Dylan was last fall and he was in a car seat. My how time flies as he is walking and is a very busy little man. Him and Hogan actually got along which is surprising since Tyler said he was not a real big fan of dogs.
Once they left, it was time for supper and time for a leftover night to clean out the fridge. Someone should really clean that fridge!!
Hockey and TV completed the evening then, it was off to bed. We have been invited for a BBQ at Casey's tomorrow so I must get my beauty rest!!
John's Mom came by for a visit today with her friend Georgie. We have not seen them since they arrived at the campsite outside of Wickenburg. Of course they got lost trying to find us parked here beside the lake but after two phone calls finally managed to arrive. Man, it boggles the mind how these two can drive all the way to Arizona, through some of the largest cities in North America and can't find us sitting by a lake in Saskatoon!!
We had a good chat with the girls and I gave Mom the four fridge magnets she had asked me to buy (as she could not find the ones she had bought). It just so happened that she had found the ones she bought and now had plenty!! Two cups of coffee later, the girls were headed out the door heading back home to watch the hockey game - hoping they did not get lost on the way!!
Tyler (one of Jace's friends) stopped by with his youngest son Dylan. The last time we saw Dylan was last fall and he was in a car seat. My how time flies as he is walking and is a very busy little man. Him and Hogan actually got along which is surprising since Tyler said he was not a real big fan of dogs.
Once they left, it was time for supper and time for a leftover night to clean out the fridge. Someone should really clean that fridge!!
Hockey and TV completed the evening then, it was off to bed. We have been invited for a BBQ at Casey's tomorrow so I must get my beauty rest!!
Sunday, May 8/2011
Happy Mother's Day to all the Moms out there. This is our day of rest and relaxation right? Yea, I will get to that just as soon as I start the heater and do last night's supper dishes!! Oh, and make coffee and tidy up the bus just in case we have company drop over today!! Then.... I will relax!!
It is cloudy and overcast again today and there is raindrops on the windows. I guess sunshine is too much to ask for. Gosh, I have been cold since I left Arizona!!
I got Happy Mother's Day wishes from Jace on Facebook. He is busy on the farm seeding and doing whatever else farmers do. Casey called and said that he and Cameron were coming for supper - good thing John is cooking!! Steak and baked potatoes are just fine with them!!
Tori had to travel to Outlook so that left the boys on their own so I guess John and I are entertaining tonight. They are easy to deal with - growing "boys" just want food and beer!!
I took the dogs for a walk around the lake and brought them back full of mud. I think they ran up and down the shoreline the whole time so am hoping they will be tired by the time they get back to the bus and just lay down and sleep!!
With supper finished, and the boys fed and watered, they headed home and John and I spent a quiet evening.
It is cloudy and overcast again today and there is raindrops on the windows. I guess sunshine is too much to ask for. Gosh, I have been cold since I left Arizona!!
I got Happy Mother's Day wishes from Jace on Facebook. He is busy on the farm seeding and doing whatever else farmers do. Casey called and said that he and Cameron were coming for supper - good thing John is cooking!! Steak and baked potatoes are just fine with them!!
Tori had to travel to Outlook so that left the boys on their own so I guess John and I are entertaining tonight. They are easy to deal with - growing "boys" just want food and beer!!
I took the dogs for a walk around the lake and brought them back full of mud. I think they ran up and down the shoreline the whole time so am hoping they will be tired by the time they get back to the bus and just lay down and sleep!!
With supper finished, and the boys fed and watered, they headed home and John and I spent a quiet evening.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Saturday, May 7/2011
It is cloudy and overcast this morning and a little heat is once again required to chase the chill out of the bus. Oh how I miss the Arizona sunshine and, as I sit here putting on socks and my moccasins to keep my feet warm, I can't help thinking about Keith and Charlotte out looking for a place that is a lot cooler than what the desert is throwing at them now!! Funny, the difference a few thousand miles makes!!
Today I definitely have to do some grocery shopping. Tomorrow is Mother's Day and I am inviting John's Mom for supper. I have no clue what is on the menu but if I don't go to the store, it just may end up being Kraft dinner!!
I spoke with John's Mom today and being that she did not know that we were back in town, has made arrangements for Mother's Day dinner else where. That is fine, I can always have her over sometime next week. Now I don't have to grocery shop!! Woo Hoo!!
I decided to go to Costco and see if there were any chairs that would be suitable for us and there were probably 10 thousand people over there!! The line ups to the cash registers were long and I decided that I was only "looking" today and If I saw something, I would return next week to buy. That killed a good hour and I did see a few things I liked. One being a propane oven with a two burner stove. It was compact and neat but the oven part was small. Good enough for a small roaster but would certainly not be big enough for a large turkey although this really isn't an issue as the trash can turkey was awesome in December. With the extended time that it took to cook the roast and the vegetables the other night, I think this little oven would be awesome. I am sure it would not have taken 3 1/2 hours to cook in this fancy oven as that is what it took in the convection oven here in the bus. Oh how I wish this bus had normal oven.
Once done at Costco, I headed over for coffee with Jan. It was quiet there today as the kids were out with their parents. We sat on the deck having coffee and I filled a couple of water jugs then headed back to the bus. I have decided to make chili tonight for supper so need a few things at the grocery store.
The chili was good - had a bit of a bite to it and that was awesome then, it was time to settle in and watch hockey and a movie.
Today I definitely have to do some grocery shopping. Tomorrow is Mother's Day and I am inviting John's Mom for supper. I have no clue what is on the menu but if I don't go to the store, it just may end up being Kraft dinner!!
I spoke with John's Mom today and being that she did not know that we were back in town, has made arrangements for Mother's Day dinner else where. That is fine, I can always have her over sometime next week. Now I don't have to grocery shop!! Woo Hoo!!
I decided to go to Costco and see if there were any chairs that would be suitable for us and there were probably 10 thousand people over there!! The line ups to the cash registers were long and I decided that I was only "looking" today and If I saw something, I would return next week to buy. That killed a good hour and I did see a few things I liked. One being a propane oven with a two burner stove. It was compact and neat but the oven part was small. Good enough for a small roaster but would certainly not be big enough for a large turkey although this really isn't an issue as the trash can turkey was awesome in December. With the extended time that it took to cook the roast and the vegetables the other night, I think this little oven would be awesome. I am sure it would not have taken 3 1/2 hours to cook in this fancy oven as that is what it took in the convection oven here in the bus. Oh how I wish this bus had normal oven.
Once done at Costco, I headed over for coffee with Jan. It was quiet there today as the kids were out with their parents. We sat on the deck having coffee and I filled a couple of water jugs then headed back to the bus. I have decided to make chili tonight for supper so need a few things at the grocery store.
The chili was good - had a bit of a bite to it and that was awesome then, it was time to settle in and watch hockey and a movie.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Friday, May 6/2011
Being that I didn't really do much running yesterday, I was on a mission to get what needed to be done, done!! My first stop was Jan's for coffee then off I went and although I had a list, I was still not organized or "in the mood"!! What the hell is with that!!
I did get some stuff done and eventually made it back to the bus. I am waiting for a T-4 slip so that I can get my income taxes done and I had phoned for a replacement on Wednesday when I was at Jan's. When I got back to the bus, I phoned her to see if it had arrived and it had so I was off again, picking it up then
dropping off all the stuff at the accountant's office. I then stopped at Napa to pick up a starter for the Samurai. John had ordered it a few days ago. That being done, I returned to the bus and found Casey there with Tori's car. I guess I get to keep the little truck a while longer!!
I threw a roast in the oven, and Casey called Tori (who was working till 9 p.m.) and invited her for supper.
We watched hockey while we waited for supper and watched the dogs run around like fools. Tori arrived and supper was ready. With the meal finished, the kids were off for their Friday night adventures and John and I once again settled down for another quiet evening.
I did get some stuff done and eventually made it back to the bus. I am waiting for a T-4 slip so that I can get my income taxes done and I had phoned for a replacement on Wednesday when I was at Jan's. When I got back to the bus, I phoned her to see if it had arrived and it had so I was off again, picking it up then
dropping off all the stuff at the accountant's office. I then stopped at Napa to pick up a starter for the Samurai. John had ordered it a few days ago. That being done, I returned to the bus and found Casey there with Tori's car. I guess I get to keep the little truck a while longer!!
I threw a roast in the oven, and Casey called Tori (who was working till 9 p.m.) and invited her for supper.
We watched hockey while we waited for supper and watched the dogs run around like fools. Tori arrived and supper was ready. With the meal finished, the kids were off for their Friday night adventures and John and I once again settled down for another quiet evening.
Thursday, May 5/2011
It is chilly in the bus this morning and I was up early (6 a.m.) to get the heat started then headed back to bed. I didn't hear another thing until there was some knocking on the door at around 8 a.m.. I looked outside and saw Jimmy O standing there. I was still in my pyjamas and you know I look like a goddess!! Jimmy had come for coffee and being a follower of this blog, knew I would be awake and up and I normally would have been but for some reason, he had caught me still in bed!! Oh well, it only took a minute to get the coffee on and for John to get out of bed. We had a good chat and John made arrangements with Jimmy to put the big truck batteries on a booster and we would stop out at their acreage and see about getting our truck started and hopefully in condition for sale. Jimmy eventually went back to work but it sure was good to chat with him and catch up on all his gossip.
I am headed back to Jan's today for coffee. Casey is on his way to Prince Albert with one of his friends and is leaving me the little sunrunner. I have some running to do and a few things to pick up so am out of here as soon as he arrives.
John has to take the bus down to Speedy Auto Glass to have them check out the front windows - thank the Lord we have a glass package on the bus otherwise, I fear this would be quite a big expense.
Spending the morning with Jan was great but eventually I had to leave to do my running. Didn't feel like doing much so only did the necessary things. Most unlike me!!
Once back at the bus, Casey had returned with his friend Cody. They had a good trip to PA - had to take Cody's quad for repairs so hopefully there is not too much wrong with it.
Casey decided to leave the little truck with me and he and Cody soon left. That left John and I to have a quiet evening and watch a bit of hockey.
I am headed back to Jan's today for coffee. Casey is on his way to Prince Albert with one of his friends and is leaving me the little sunrunner. I have some running to do and a few things to pick up so am out of here as soon as he arrives.
John has to take the bus down to Speedy Auto Glass to have them check out the front windows - thank the Lord we have a glass package on the bus otherwise, I fear this would be quite a big expense.
Spending the morning with Jan was great but eventually I had to leave to do my running. Didn't feel like doing much so only did the necessary things. Most unlike me!!
Once back at the bus, Casey had returned with his friend Cody. They had a good trip to PA - had to take Cody's quad for repairs so hopefully there is not too much wrong with it.
Casey decided to leave the little truck with me and he and Cody soon left. That left John and I to have a quiet evening and watch a bit of hockey.
Wednesday, May 4/2011
The rain continued the entire night. I got up a few times to look out the windows just to see what I could see and it is definitely raining - big time!!
I set my alarm last night for 7 a.m. as Jan is supposed to be picking me up so that we can spend the day together. When the alarm rang, I was up and ready to visit.
The rain has stopped but the wind is blowing a bit and I think John said that it is to rain today as well.
Jan eventually came to get me and we spent most of the day together. She was baby sitting Caelan and Ronin and it was awesome to share our day with them as well. Ronin was thrilled with the Mack truck we brought him from the Cars movie and I swear, he played with it all day!! Caelan liked his Thomas the Train and I was pleased that he actually knew who it was!! Such smart boys!!
It was great to spend the day with Jan - I so missed her this winter and I am truly grateful that we had so much company in Arizona this past year that the time seemed to just fly by.
Casey came to pick me up (he was hanging with John) and brought me back to the bus.
A busy but good day!!
I set my alarm last night for 7 a.m. as Jan is supposed to be picking me up so that we can spend the day together. When the alarm rang, I was up and ready to visit.
The rain has stopped but the wind is blowing a bit and I think John said that it is to rain today as well.
Jan eventually came to get me and we spent most of the day together. She was baby sitting Caelan and Ronin and it was awesome to share our day with them as well. Ronin was thrilled with the Mack truck we brought him from the Cars movie and I swear, he played with it all day!! Caelan liked his Thomas the Train and I was pleased that he actually knew who it was!! Such smart boys!!
It was great to spend the day with Jan - I so missed her this winter and I am truly grateful that we had so much company in Arizona this past year that the time seemed to just fly by.
Casey came to pick me up (he was hanging with John) and brought me back to the bus.
A busy but good day!!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Tuesday, May 3/2011
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| Kim's new wheels |
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| I see you! |
We won't be driving into Saskatoon until later this afternoon.. We might just as well stay here and enjoy this peaceful setting.
Once we were in gear, it was off on the final leg of our journey. We will be in Saskatoon soon!!
When we started out down the road, there was this horrible "wind whistle" coming into the bus - like someone had forgot to completely close a window. It was coming from the front window - Holy Jesus, Mary and Joseph - there is definitely wind coming though the corners of each side of the front window!! The window had popped out of its moulding and the wind was having a field day!! Something else that needs to be dealt with before heading up to the lot in Leoville.
We saw a moose on the way into the city and that was pretty neat to see. There is lots of water in the ditches and there are several roads closed as a result of it. It is scheduled to rain for the next couple of days and that is definitely not what is needed at this point.
Both the boys text us to see if we were in Saskatoon already - I think we are getting company!!
Finally arrived in Saskatoon and got parked along the "lake". There have been a few changes in the last six months and one of them being the empty lot beside the lake in currently under construction so that easy access to our spot is gone. Oh well, no big deal, we just had to go around the long way.
All settled and Kim was the first to arrive with her new fancy pickup truck. Nice!! Jace would not be coming around as he left for the farm this morning in the hopes that they could maybe start seeding. Apparently the farm got less snow than the rest of the area.
The jack rabbits are jumping around like crazy and the Canada geese are feeding down by the water. Of course I had to get pics and Kim seemed to enjoy the show as well.
Casey and Tori arrived next (Tori just back from a trip to France) with our other Grand dog Roxy. She is as soft as Grace was and seemed quite friendly and actually listened quite well so obviously the kids have been working with her. They are heading out to a movie tonight and hope to get the 7:30 screening. If not, they will return and visit until the 9:30 show.
They returned with Cameron, Cody and Bailey in tow so we had even more company!! It was good to see all the little lovies again. Eventually, everyone left and I cooked supper. It is starting to rain.
I crawled into bed and watched TV and listened to the rain smacking to roof.
It is so good to be home!!
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