Ramona's Sister

A Sad Post Today

2012-01-20T22:51:00.000-04:00

Remember I told you about the 'Stranger a Day' thing the girls and I were doing when we first got to camp? Well, one night, Sherri picked a young guy sitting alone and we followed suit. Poor guy was stunned when we descended upon his table and was so tired he could hardly keep his eyes open.

After our rapid-fire questions, and his obvious residence of Sydney Mines, him and I discovered that we had very close mutual friends in the Browns. So he and I hit it off and yakked and grabbed tea whenever we could. He was just a kid (23 or so) so I don't remember him hanging around while being around the Browns, but he spent a lot of days on Jessome Street. He had to cut out early since he'd worked so hard in the heat that day and was basically sleep-walking, but after that, we'd hang out when we saw each other, had the same gym schedule etc. Really great kid - educated, funny, great story teller, wanted to get out of his town and move to Calgary with his sister; was truly trying to move forward in life.

Anyway, long story short, he, and I'm very short on the facts here, overdosed the other night and was found deceased by his girlfriend.

I am so saddened by this. I saw him at my current camp as recent as November and we'd eaten a few meals together and he was having trouble sleeping so I gave him homeopathic pellets to put under his tongue to settle him, but I didn't take the time, against my intuition, to sit and 'talk' to him. I knew he was sad because we'd touched briefly on his life over our dinners.

I was in my office one day texting him as he was struggling so badly with 'too much going on in his head' and going days without proper sleep. I was going to ask him if he wanted me to go over to the lounge area to chat with him just so he could unload.

And I didn't.

I was too busy. I was a 25 second walk away from him and I was too busy.

While its true my job is the most intense I've ever had and I've never so honestly earned a paycheque in my life; what was so important about my spreadsheets and flight bookings and whatever else I do that I couldn't have taken 30 minutes out of my day to listen to someone?

Now I don't know if this overdose was intentional or an accidental mix of perscriptions he was on, and I don't feel that my not walking across the sidewalk to talk to him has changed the end result.

But it's a really sad lesson learned. I had the chance to help him and I didn't take it. I did a little bit, sure I texted him during the day, but I was too afraid of 'getting in trouble', 'getting a reputation of being lazy at work' to physically go over to where he was.

Pretty sure my work can wait; those engineers and transport managers and flight coordinators can wait a minute or two while I tend to my friend.

Makes you realize how precious a life is. He left a sister and a neice and nephew and a newborn (nephew maybe) who worshipped him and he likewise.

Weird for me to ask - but can you send a little prayer rocket up for them? I don't know what you'd say because asking for them to find comfort right now seems like a long shot ...

Sorry for the sad post and I don't quite know what its purpose is; probably to try and absolve myself.

We are called to love. Truly. I know I missed this chance, just how many do I not know about?

My prayer for myself right now is that my eyes, heart and ears would be tuned in a little finer for next time.

Theres no way to end this on a positive note, so I'm just going to sign off.

LLM

Somethings Are Just Too Special To Let Go

2012-01-06T15:02:00.000-04:00

Back, way back in ... 1989? Maybe? My cousin, and soul sister at the time, Gwen ( of http://risebeforedawn.blogspot.com/ fame) lived in Labrador and (if my memory is correct) people came to her school one day to teach them how to craft things out of leather.

While everyone else made little knick-knacks, she set out to make me a pair of slippers (insert size 10 feet joke here, Mark?). She laboured far longer than her peers on my slippers, and I was so flattered when she gave them to me knowing how much love (and most likely, regret haha) went into them.

They've travelled all over Canada with me all these years and I put them on the other day and got sentimental.

I haven't seen her in close to a decade as life and miles have made visiting not very user-friendly; but it doesn't diminish my pride in knowing she is my blood and how she she went from this spunky little kid who yelled "HELLO BONNIE" at a wedding when we were really little to truly being 'the change she wants to see in the world'.

Love you Gwennie! Proud you're mine. xoxo

Silly Surfers

2012-01-06T14:47:00.000-04:00

HAHA - they loved my tattoo!!

A Cabo Christmas!

2012-01-06T14:39:00.000-04:00

These are mixed up and Blogger is slow and silly, so my update won't be thorough, but FB has more pics.

Tassie and I being silly - based on a viral YouTube video about the silly things girls say and do.

Where we stayed. It was cold the first couple of days so we were pretty white for a lot of our trip.

Melted candle wax structure in one of the two a la carte restaurants. There was an Italian restaurant and a Mexican one as well. So good. And free. Well, not really free, as we completely overpaid for a week away! haha. But all you had to bring was tip money.

We were taken out on a pub-crawl with our surf instructors. This was the key to the bathroom at The Jungle Bar

Can you spot the Canadians??

SNORKLING!!! was amazing!

These creepy elves were EVERYWHERE. What nighmares are made of!

Tassie and I making fun of Sherri's famous 'get ready' pose. (she did this one day on the beach before attempting a carthwheel)

Our first night there! Look how bundled we are! It was so cold. And we're so un-tanned, we look sickly.

Our (handsy) surf instructors

Our surf instructors in a totally different situation! haha

Now I could care less about Sammy Hagar (of ... Van Halen fame, I believe) buuuut,,,, TOBY KEITH!! was in town and at this bar two nights before. He is really the only celebrity that I would walk up to and talk. But he wasn't there the night I was. Boo.

Tass and I pretending (posing) that the giant waves were scary.

Sherri and I not pretending to marvel at the sand nearly moving us back with it

Almost successful picture ... CABC?

It was such a fabulous time! We went ziplining too and that was so scary - flying down a metal cable with just a helmet over canyons and each ride (we did 7) were higher and longer than the last. At least I face my fear of heights!! Still scared of edges, but can say I did it and would do it again, no question!

The girls were so much fun to travel with. Very easy-going. We did our own thing when we felt like it. I went for a walk down the beach by myself a couple of times. They went off to the Infinity pool while I lounged and read.

I'd def go with them again - and I think they'd say the same. Hope so anyway :-).

My Lil Dad

2012-01-06T13:44:00.000-04:00

Dad came to visit for a couple of days. I think it was just to collect his Christmas presents, but whatever, a girl has to get a paternal visit in when she can. ;-)

All his children contributed to (both parents) Christmas present, so as much as it pained me, I took him shopping.

HeeHee.

I am a shopoholic and to help someone get clothes, it helps with my addiction without the guilt of shopping for myself.

So I took him to the store I always shop at. Espy (a fab boutique in Inglewood). Ashley and Clarke helped him pick out a gorgeous pair of Mavi jeans.

Then we went to O'Connors (Calgary's answer to Duggers) and hit up the Boxing Day sale and got him two super funky shirts. One is a real pale lavender and the inside of the collar and cuff are PAISLEY!!!!

I know! Paisley! Dad! Paisley!

I kept saying to him "stop me if I'm steam-rolling you'. (its a default, I'm afraid)

Then we went to Banff and he bought himself a LULU hoodie!!! I know! LULU! Dad!

We had a great dinner with Auntie and Uncle Lloyd one night.

Had breakfast at Rickys near my house on Wednesday morning, I went to my naturopath and Dad went on his way.

Awesome way to start the year!

Now to meet up with Mom to give her her gift (a spa day!! mudwraps! herbal baths! manicures! pedicures!

(i'm not wearing my glasses, so if theres typos, please know that is the reason)

WorkMates

2011-12-24T00:27:00.000-04:00

Girls I work with.
L-R: Tassie, Sherri, Me, Caroline, Brittany

As a side note, we don't look like this at our isolated, Northern Alberta rig camp. I don't think our male workmates quite knew what hit them when we all arrived at our Christmas party ...

Tassie and Sherri are the girls I'm going to Mexico with. Did I mention TOMORROW??? Weeeeee. If you see a foreign phone number on your call display - pick up. I may need bail.

Didn't-Need-To-Know-That

2011-12-24T00:11:00.000-04:00

At London Drugs in Red Deer tonight, I picked up a giant bottle of water (since I'd just downed a man-size ribs and shrimp meal at Montana's) and a pack of Imodium (in case of mistakenly ingested Mexican water / diarrhea friendly food).

The older cashier greeted me kindly, asked if I needed a bag to which I replied a pleasant 'no thanks, I'm good.'

She looks at my two items on the counter and says 'oh, my husband has that problem. Me? I'm the opposite.'

I, for some reason, mental reflexes, I'm sure, said 'oh no, I'm going away tomorrow and am buying this as a just-in-case medication.'

She said 'are you going to Mexico?'

I said 'yes.'

She said 'are you flying?'

I said 'yes'

Weirdest, most awkward conversation with a cashier to date.

Want

2011-12-22T12:00:00.000-04:00

this outfit.

(image from Pinterest)

Heart of Stone Melted

2011-12-17T23:23:00.000-04:00

Its pretty clear that I don't love dogs. (not as pets, love them as little beings) They are cute and smart, loyal, protective, and sensitive and a lot of really good things.

But they shed, and poo and pee and puke. Wearing black clothes becomes an event of the past and whether you think it or not, your house smells like dog. I promise. It does.

But look at this. Is this not the cutest little bum you've ever seen in your whole life. I would cuddle this little thing until it got bigger and then I would give it back. But it'd have probably peed on me before that so I'd have given it back before it grew.

Crazy - Not Coo-Coo, But Hard-to-Believe Crazy

2011-12-16T00:19:00.000-04:00

Theres a group of co-workers who go to the gym in the morning at 3:45 (i'm still fast asleep!!) and its a tiny little space so everyone is in everyones way, etc.

Well yesterday morning, bossman went to the 'running machine' as he calls a treadmill and put his music on, put the speed at 3.5 and closed his eyes as he was angry and penning a biting return email in his head. That was at 3:45am.

Meanwhile the others are working out as usual and noticing his eyes closed and thought that it was super weird.

Another co-worker who normally goes to the gym after the day is done went in the morning because she'd eaten (i heard) 3/4 of a box of Pot of Gold by herself. So she's working out, doing her thing.

And bossman opens his eyes, the place is empty except for 'the beautiful blunde (australian accent).

He looked at his watch. It was 4:30. He looked at the blonde again and said 'whats she doing her? shes never here in the morning? is it afternoon?'

Totally freaked him out.

He'd been sleep walking on the treadmill for 45 minutes!

HAHA. His legs were sore all day! He'd actually fallen asleep and walked for 45 minutes.

Truth.

He's been here almost 40 days. Its time for him to go home.

Maybe Mildly Inappropriate ... But Pretty Funny

2011-12-16T00:04:00.000-04:00

I found this last night on a website called http://www.someecards.com/ ; they've expanded into other realms of funny.

I don't want children, but if I did, I would want them to be this clever and write something like this at school.

It Only Hurts To A Certain Point

2011-12-15T00:15:00.000-04:00

(image from pinterest)

I've been doing some longer runs these days

and its true.

You get to a point in the run where you think

"I'm just gonna do this - it can't get any worse than this".

THEN

I own that run by using the last couple of kms to do some sprints and lunges.

AND

when I hit the garage code to open the door as I'm stretching and dizzy and exhausted and sweaty, I think

"It can't get any better than this".

I love running; its my main addiction in life (not counting Pinterest or Etsy) and while its wrecking havoc on my knees, its doing wonders for my brain, energy and ambtion level.

BECAUSE

when you run, you automatically and naturally want to do better than your last. You want to run it faster, or you want to run longer so you run a little quicker, or take the long way home. It pushes you to succeed. And that overflows into your everyday life.

THANK YOU

to an old friend for pushing me to get into it (called me names when I flaked out) and to my aging body for making me continue it as a weight loss option and to my sisters and cousin Rae for inspring me to become a better athlete and run a half marathon. I am excited for the challenge.

I Hope I Don't Act Holier Than Thou

2011-12-10T23:49:00.000-04:00

I love my new(ish)found faith ... its (i may have mentioned in posts in the last three years) rocky and i stumble and fall; and my faith comes in waves and and then waves goodbye! but i've learned that christianity doesn't come from perfection, but a personal relationship with God. so i've stopped expecting myself to be who everyone thinks i should be and i'm becoming who He intended me to be.

Randomocity

2011-12-10T23:38:00.000-04:00

love these peircings and it just might be mine soon. they're so groovy. looks sore though ...

Oh man. this made me laugh my head off.

heehee. love this kid. and pretty sure this is true.

this quote (orignated where, I have no idea) is sad but true. i am crash dieting (healthily) for mexico and have lost a few pounds and camp is full of wonderful gluten free treats and i am avoiding them because this above statement is fact. (i can't wait until jan 1 and i can eat freely again)

Let Me Show You Something

2011-12-10T23:28:00.000-04:00

My cousins! Missing three who were overseas / South America and couldn't make it. (this was taken at my Grams funeral) She'd have been so very proud if she couldn't seen us all!

See all these people? She made everyone of us feel like we were her favorite.

I Love Life

2011-11-26T23:46:00.000-04:00

(image from www.weheartit.com)

Even though its super crappy sometimes - I love life. Life in general. The little oddities of it, the bumps and bruises, the surprises and serendipity.
I love that despite the fact its not where I ever dreamed I would be at 36, who I am becoming is who I am supposed to be.
I love that I have crazy adventures to tell, and that I'm mellowing as I age, I'm nicer and more patient and that I can sometimes physically feel myself becoming stronger.

A tiny example of why I am facinated by lifes journey: Tonight I was walking down the hallway at camp in my winter outdoor running gear (those last five words are themselves are mind boggling). I had a little burst of "What the ...?" Who knew that when I worked for X (company I just found out through cyber security training that I'm not supposed to post its name on any social network - oops) that I would be running with two of the UK engineers, in sub-zero temperatures, in Northern Alberta, seven years later?

Annnd ... just to add to the mix - who knew I'd like it?!

Its a little unconvential, these decisions I've made to land me right here / right now. But theres a little voice (and permanent ink on my foot) that reminds me that just as God promised in Jeremiah 31 that they would adorn themselves with tambourines and go forth in the dance of the merrymakers - that these little moments are reminders to me that not only will "She once again dance", but that I am once again dancing.

xo LMac xo

The Anatomy of a Photo Shoot with Nate

2011-11-12T21:44:00.003-04:00

So I wanted a picture with one of the cutest kids I know, nephew Nate.
However, he was busy and attaining his attention for a quick photo proved challenging.

Hey Nate.

Hey Nate.

He said something cheeky, I reacted.

I think he is saying "just wait". So I'm waiting.

He looks up, but I'm not at the ball, and I miss my opportunity.

He fake smiles, and I still miss my chance.

Annnnd, we both fake smile - this exercise was no longer worth the energy exerted.

He said something else and I genuinely laugh.

And he remains one of the cutest kid I've ever come across.

The Trouble with Cherry Tomatoes

2011-11-02T17:15:00.002-03:00

Is that you are happily snacking on them, and one of them is rotten, by the time you find out its, its too late ...

Personal experience. 10 minutes ago. And I was too lazy to get up off my butt and dispose of it, so I pushed through. Perseverance is key in managing rotten tomatoes. Keep chewing and know that in 10 seconds its gonna be better. All you have to do is chase it with another one and hope it too, is not rotten.

Thats it. Thats all I have to say today. Except that I'm going to Montreal tomorrow and I'm beyond excited.

Cheers, LMac

I Can Talk About This Now ...

2011-10-27T22:10:00.004-03:00

Ever have one of those situations where people mention it and then look at you and say "too soon?" Well, sit down and let me tell you one ...

I was home in NS for two weeks before mobilizing to my new job up north. As is the characteristics of time off, days meld into each other and slip away in blissful succession. (yes, i said blissful)

My flight home was on Sunday night at 5:45pm on June 18 landing in Calgary at 12:30am June 19. I look back I think that I was quite aware that I wasn't aware of which day was which given my vaction mode so I checked my itinerary fairly frequently.

After two absolutely fabulously glorious and carefree weeks hanging out with family and helping Dad around the yard, I was floating through my Sunday at my sister Heidi's. She was quietly doing laundry, bro in law Kenny was watching football and my dear, sweet, quiet, peaceful dad was in the living room on his computer.

I'd leisurely taken an impromptu nap, and I was chilly so I was wearing my little dress with lulu pants underneath (not very attractive) and upon waking up, with mascara running down my face (see above comment), I, too was surfing the internet and casually looked over at the stove and saw that the time was 4:45.

It was at that instant I realized something very, very terrible was happening.

With a sharply risen core body temperature, I went calmly to get my itinerary in hopes I was wrong; and sure enough, I'd sailed right through my vacation with peripheral attention to my departure time and date. Thinking because I was arriving on the 19th, then I was also leaving on the 19th.

I shattered the silence of a lazy dayz Sunday afternoon in disbelief with a frantic 'I AM SUPPOSED TO BE AT THE AIRPORT RIIIIIGHT NOW'.

Yes indeed. I was. Today was the 18th. The day of my departure and it was presently and precisely one hour prior to take off.

Laundry dropped, TV instantly abandoned, Laptop shoved to the side, the rest of the house came racing to my aide with me in full panic mode. I just stood over my suitcase motionless and crying. I was completely paralyzed with no cognitive thoughts or decision making abilities running through my brain.

Dad pushed me out of the way, hauled my suitcase on the bed, Heidi shoved all my belongings into it leaving me sweaterless for my chilly plane ride home. I didn't care at this point, and had enough sense to take my lulus off and pass them to her. I knew enough to change from the dress to jeans and she threw a shirt at me and I grabbed my giant red/black leopard print scarf. The only footwear I could find (she's a VERY speedy packer) were my cowboy boots, and there was no room for my fedora (which has lace and sequins) so I wore it. Not exactly what the gal / guy who envisioned either the boots or the hat had in mind when designing ....

So within, lets say, 5 minutes, Kenny got the car from the garage, and Dad carried my big suitcase out. And Heidi got all the odds and ends packed and microsecond decisions made on what items would stay, go or be mailed out at a later date and we were out the door.

After locking the apartment, Heidi and I both picked up my handbag at the same time and didn't even have time to decide who would carry it, so we both did. We felt like were in a scene of Home Alone. We giggled as we awkwardly ran down her hallway, but it was more of a nervous, 'we're going to pretend you're not an idiot' kind of laugh.

Still with make-up all over my tear-stained face, and me painfully aware of what a walking, well, at this point, running, fashion crime scene I was, we drove (i can't tell you the speed) to the airport.

I got there with 20 minutes to spare, and when I was calmly assured the plane wasn't leaving without me, (sweet, sweet Nova Scotians - really - there's noone else like them) I stuffed one last item in my suitcase and broke my (fake, gel) fingernail right off, ripping into the actual nail bed, (ouch) causing blood to go everywhere. The agent went to get me a band aid, sauntering away, la la la la la, and finally came back with it opened ready for application. (meanwhile, back in Leanne Land, the train had fully de-railed and sauntering wasn't on the agenda)

After hasty apologies and hugs goodbye, I got through security and my gate was directly at the top of the escalator so I was nice and close by, but let me tell you - I hadn't been sitting very long when they made the boarding call.

The more I ventured to tell the story, the more I heard 'oh, that happened to me ... blah blah'. So I eventually stopped feeling like a twit but I still feel terrible for wrecking a perfect Sunday afternoon!

oh! and there were no flights with availablilty on Monday from Halifax to Calgary so I would've missed my flight to my new job on Tuesday.

I still get hot when I think about it.

That is all.

My Grandma

2011-10-17T19:49:00.005-03:00

I've just returned from saying goodbye for the last time to my sweet grandmother. I've been half expecting 'the call' for a couple of years now, but nothing prepares you for the moment you hear those words. Though I'd been missing 'her' for a few years, the hours after hearing of her passing were flooded with memories, fresh as if they'd just happened. And by 'her', I mean the Grandma I knew before age, and the effects of it had gripped her mind and memory and physical capabilities.

I want to take a couple of moments to share my grandmother with you.

Born as Isabel Alexandra MacQueen MacPherson; she garnered the nickname Queenie. I always thought it was a bit strange (as a child and never really knowing why she was called that) but in reality, she lived up quite nicely to the moniker. She was also know as Grandma is many, many other people who had no blood relation. She was everyones Grandma.

I find it hard to talk about Gram (I shortened her name to Gram when I was a teenager for no other reason to be different. Or was it lazy? I don't quite remember) with out talking about her husband. My amazing grandfather - but don't get me started on him, I'll be here all day. And this post is about her so I'll carry on as planned.

Growing up across the field from my grandparents had its perks. We could see them drive up the road, and sometimes would practically race them into the house in a frantic run from our place to theirs just for the chance to hang out and probably to snag a freshly baked roll or slice of bread with molasses. But really, mostly just to be with them.

Gram was a school teacher in her day so I had a math tutor (bless her heart) at my fingertips. I remember the plastic cover over the gorgeous lace tablecloth on the dining room table as she patiently went through the 'new math' with me. Pretty sure we didn't know about ADD then, but I likely had it and drove her nuts but you'd never have known it. The lace underneath was apparently distracting and I would trace it with the eraser tip of my pencil (??). Can you even imagine how annoying that would be??

Her hands. Very distinctive, and hard working. Those hands have so much meaning and memories for me. They were the hands that kneaded bread regularly; they were the hands that wiped my tears, and Amway-sprayed my numerous cuts and scraps from biking (or falling from running and tripping over my too-big-for-my-body feet- as running was my main mode of transportation). They were the hands that hugged me constantly and brushed my hair and tucked me in at night. They were the hands that I held when I sat next to her in church or when I just wanted to be in her presence. The hands that held so many of her own children, her childrens children with unbridled love and full blown affection.

She loved very simple things in life; like her lilac tree and pussy willows. The lilac tree bloomed every year outside her kitchen window and with, oh, at least 12 grandchildren around in the summer each bringing her flowers from it, the same amount of fuss was made over every grubby little fistful that was passed to her with proud smiles.

I don't remember Grams favorite color, or her favorite meal, or her favorite Bible story. But I also don't remember her ever raising her voice at me (there were countless situations that warranted it). I don't even remember her being visible annoyed at me (see above comment). She had a gentle soul and didn't particularly move quickly, which brought a sense of peace to her surroundings. She'd stop what she was doing no matter how many times I'd come bursting through the door and tend to me. Whether it was 'exciting' news from school, Mark and Stephen chasing me with a snake, or dropping by on the ski-doo to ask if she'd seen the cool jump I did outside her kitchen window, she made sure I felt welcome and loved. (and gently told me to be careful on the snowmobile and questioned my wisdom in performing such acts- always - and as she should have)

Out of all the charactoristics that tend to define who my Grandmother was; the most obvious, no thats not the right word - the most telling, was her fairness to her grandchildren. She had twenty two grandchildren - and we all think we were her favorite! We were all treated equally and over the top with attention.

At the funeral, her grandsons were the pallbearers and sat at the front of the church against the wall. And when they stood to sing, two thoughts struck me: The first being how incredibly proud she would've been to have seen her boys looking so handsome, and the second how she would've basked in their strong, beautiful voices.

I wouldn't wish her back for a second, she's hanging out with Grandpa right now and quite frankly, I'm a little jealous. (he's one of my favorite human beings) but I did wish that for just a glimpse she could've joined us.

I could go on and on, really. But I'll stop with this 'tip of the iceburg' post and hope you've gotten a small peek into the life 22 of us were lucky enough to live. And if you have memories of your own, I'd love to hear so leave them in the comment section.

xo cheers, LeeLeeMac

As a side note: I feel very lucky in that I live in Calgary where her mini-me sister lives and who I see regularly. I've been here for over two years and while it was super weird at first to see someone who looked and acted so much like my grandmother, now I find it almost comforting. Its like I have an extention with Grandma, and for that I am grateful.

Today's Burning Question

2011-10-02T16:12:00.004-03:00

Why do we cover up zits?

I have one, nothing horrendous, (pardon the personal information here) that has decided to make its home on my forehead. I knew it was moving in, and I took the proper measures to thwart its habitation, but its managed to make itself nice and comfortable on real estate with a sweeping view of the countryside.

So today after lunch I bring out my little emergency kit of makeup (foundation, bronzer, brush, mascara, eyeliner) that is stashed in my desk drawer, and open it up to reveal the mirror so I can take affirmative action on this pesky little visitor.

As I'm blending in the foundation oh so carefully, squinting into the 1" x 2" mirror provided, I suddenly realize its futile.

The zit is still there.

Its still in the middle of my forehead.

Its still visible.

The only accomplishment of this procedure is a shinier, paler patch of skin on my forehead with a little protusion showcasing my feeble attempt at concealing the offending zit.

So the question remains - why do girls cover up their zits? Sometimes I think I do it just so people know I know its there; and its not an awkward "want to look you in the eye but can't because a massive, um, thing is crawling off your face" situation. Who knows?

side note: as a joke I was going to add in a picture of zit (not my own) and I googled it, hit images and promptly almost puked. And didn't think it was the christian thing to do to put that in your mind. Now if you go and google it yourself, then thats done on (in? by?) your own free will and beyond my control, thus out of my conscience.

Now back to your regularly scheduled thoughtlife.

Dream Weavin' (read : ridiculous mix of tv too soon before bed)

2011-07-26T00:09:00.005-03:00

So Wills and Kate were in town (town unrecognizable) and she decided she was going to ditch hubby for the day and hang out with Heidi and I. So we went to a pub and we're chilling out, laughing, talking , you know, the things you do with a princess in a pub. Word was getting out that she was around and the place was starting to fill up but I had to run home for something.

I was rushing because I had to get back to hang out with my new BFF before the crowd got to be too much.

On my way back through my neighbourhood (neighbourhood also unrecognizable) I, along with the rest of the crowd, lets say about a dozen, were taken hostage by an Asian military. I was laying on the ground thinking 'Great, now I'm going to miss hanging out with Kate. And the bouncers aren't going to let me in because they won't believe that I was already there with her".

Then I looked up and saw the soliders and thought (still dreaming) 'well, thats just ridiculous, this has to be a dream, I'm Canadian, this doesn't happen in Canada'.

AND I WOKE UP!!!

I woke up because the thought of being taken down by a foreign military wasn't realistic.

But .... hanging out in public with the Duchess of Cornwall is ...

Oh man - glad my subconscious world stays sub, and doesn't surface to conscious.

Trying To Sneak One By Me Fail

2011-07-25T23:54:00.003-03:00

With strange rules at camp (thats a different post for a different day) like "you can't bring food from the dining hall out", I asked a co-worker this am if he'd nip a banana for me and put it in his coat since the Bag Up Room (where we pack a lunch for the day) was out by the time I'd gotten there. He complied and brought back two which were sweetly, perfectly ripe. I smiled in contentment at the vision of chunky peices of banana goodness in my gluten free Chex and rice milk at precisely 10:15. A yummy distraction from big ugly worky stuff.

At about 720, he appears in the door of my office. I light up. YES! My bananas are here (stolen waters are sweeter, no?) In his scottish accent, he says "Heres your bananas love". "Thanks!" I enthuse but do a double take when I see the fruit which previously was attached nicely at the stem was now seperated and one was conspicuously replaced by a much older, much less appealing, on-its-way-to-the-banana-bread-factory substitute.

I repeat my thanks looking up at him half expecting him to explain the mysterious switch. But, alas, he just looked at me with a glint in his eye and a secret look confirming our little heist had gone off without a hitch.

I wonder if he actually thinks I'm stoopid ....

Aussies, Scots, Brits, Indian, Asian, Capers, Newfies

2011-07-25T23:51:00.002-03:00

I work in a global industry which becomes a melting pot of cultures.

Who knows what my accent is going to be when I leave here!

Next thing you know, I'll be calling you love or mate !

Stranger Danger

2011-07-25T23:30:00.002-03:00

I have several female co-workers but theres three of us who have really bonded. They are roomates in Calgary, and both are hysterical. Tassie is a close clone to Angelina Jolie; exotic (German/Ukranian), 5'10, and hilarious. Sherri is half Asian, 5'3, looks like Lisa Ling and has the same wit as Ellen Page. We laugh so much and so loud and long and obnoxious. Sherri will repeat a conversation she's had with someone word for word with the exact accents and we keel over laughing. And she deadpans; she'll say something side-splitting and keep eating while Tass and I can hardly see we're laughing so hard. And in a few weeks, we're going to have back to back schedules which saddens us all very deeply.

Sooooo ... wading through all that to get to this:

We've started a 'Stranger a Day' initiative since soon we're going to be on our own at various times. We pick a stranger at breakfast or dinner and sit with them, ask them invasive personal questions and completely disrupt their quiet time.

Since we end up at the table at different times, these poor people who were enjoying their meal have no idea what is happening when Angelina, Lisa Ling and myself show up about 30 seconds after each other. Its amusing.

The following are the results of our study:

Lane, a labourer (I think) from somewhere in BC (he and T has struck up a friendship)

Colin- Sydney Mines, Pitt Street to be exact (now we're buds since we know the same people)

Kaye and Mary - Electrician and I'm assuming an Admin from Edmonton (one of them told us death stories, we were depressed living the dining room)

Ian - Ironworker from Barrie, Ont.

Butch - Scaffolder from Cape Breton, cute little guy I had breakfast with one am.

No Name (Maybe Michael) from Scotland - we scared him and he doesn't sit with us anymore. We see him across the room and laugh because our conversation that night truly frightened him.

Liz- Admin from Ottawa area.

Thats all I remember - I'm not as outgoing as the other two (or as young and eager, maybe??) and I may sit with them, but I usually wait until they engage me.

And these people who are unaware that they are an experiment, are now referred to as 'Stranger Ian, etc .. '

I wonder if I'll ever grow up.

Camp Quotes - Part 1

2011-07-25T23:22:00.002-03:00

(I've named it Part 1, since I'm fairly certain I'll have several postings)

"it tastes like meat" - co-worker Tassie when asked how her dinner was

"i like your hair. it takes years of your age, its a young woman's hair do" - my boss

"i'm a man of simple needs, Leanne. Change your hair do tomorrow please" - my other boss (4 minutes later)

(for the record - it was curly and pulled into a side pony, my personal opinion is that it was very trendy and cute)

"take 'em all! tomatoes - the devil fruit i call it" - man behind me in dinner line as i was picking out the cherry tomatoes out of the mass of lettuce they managed to call salad.

thats it for now. these are just the ones my goldfish memory retained!

Stories

2011-07-25T23:05:00.004-03:00

... boy do I hear some doozies.

Working with men who've been in Oil and Gas globally for 35 years has opened my eyes to the vastness of life that lives beyond the safe confines of the shores of North America.

Singapore. Malaysia. Spain. Brazil. All night time stories. All involving copious amounts of booze.

Regardless of their origin, these stories, along with the story telling talent, has us open-mouthed and howling in laughter.

I think I may be in for the ride of my life up here. I have found myself in direct contact with some very powerful people who are more than willing to help me out with my career choices.

It is good (so far) but remember how over the top excited I was about my last job and how I had sunshine and lollipops coming out my butt as I flew hand in hand (hoof?) with unicorns over fields of sugarplums and chocolate then it went to hell in a handbag in an instant? Well, this time, I'm not setting myself up for that kind of fall - so I'm just chillin', doing my job and not getting emotionally involved. So for now, I really like it, its challenging and not a typical office job and its an amazing opportunity to get ahead in life. So I'm going to continue to do what I'm doing and just get it done!

More to come....

Cheers Mates!

L.

Camp - Again

2011-07-25T22:57:00.002-03:00

Its been so very long since I've sat down to blog. Well, its been so very long since I've actually sat down and typed a blog. I've tried plenty, however with fruitless results.

So I'll give you the Readers Digest version of the last couple of months.

- I accepted a really great job with Imperial Oil at Kearl Lake in the oil sands of Northern Alberta. About 10 kms away from the last job I was at up here. But a much, much, better job, and in a different stratosphere as far as living conditions go.

- My job start date was delayed by a month due to the wild fires here. So I booked a flight home to Nova Scotia and had what I can only describe as 'soul-cleansing'. I am truly, truly blessed (pardon the often over-used churchy word) to have been chosen for the family I have and the friends and friends of family who surround me. One of the most relaxing, happy, carefree trips anywhere. Ever.

- So thats basically it - The rest of the posts for the next couple of days are going to be pretty camp-heavy.

Enjoy.

xoL.

Completely in Love

2011-07-09T14:03:00.003-03:00

Some People Have Too Much Time ....

2011-05-28T19:29:00.001-03:00

http://youtu.be/MtN1YnoL46Q

try not to spend the rest of the day humming to yourself "and he waddled away, waddle, waddle".

*check out the mans mouth everytime the duck comes up to him*

Family/Food

2011-05-23T00:43:00.003-03:00

Little Update on the 'Rents, etc.

I went to Edmonton to meet up with Dad and Mom - Heres Dad checking my tire pressure (cuz i don't have a clue). Too cute!

Me and My Mama (heehee just kidding sisters)

Dad - not smiling - while pumping gas. For good reason.

Sweet Uncle Lloyd

Darling Auntie after a pretty rough fall/winter health-wise

Dad and Mora on a Calgary visit by Dad

Mother and Son visit at Easter dinner. Ray using her walker as a chair.

For dinner along with some amazing meat main entree, we had carrots with orange marmalade. Try it sometime.

Cute napkin holders

Dessert by Dee.

Wanna See Something Hilarious??

2011-05-23T00:34:00.002-03:00

My almost-former company had professional shots taken of all the staff; which proved to be completely redundant seeing I'M LEAVINGGGGG! But anyway - I got my copy and it makes me giggle. First of all, how does my face look chubby after the hours I spent at the gym?? Secondly, I didn't even bother to iron my shirt that morning. I sit most of the day, so detail oriented ironing isn't generally a requirement. Guess I should've paid more attention. And thirdly, I answer the phones, why do they need my pic?

Oh well. None of my concern anymore.

Here We Go Again ....

2011-05-21T12:37:00.004-03:00

(image by www.weheartit.com)

Picture has nothing to do with the post. I just thought it was hilarious.

I'm going to keep this short and sweet.

I finally got the call for my job with ExxonMobil at the Kearl Lake Oil Sands Project. Its a two month contract, hopefully to be extended into something I can rely on. The industry is so fickle that thats all they can commit to at the moment (and I thought I had committment issues) so I'll take it.

I am so relieved and quietly happy; and really, really hope this time works out and I can finally achieve some of the financial goals I set out for myself in my 'step of faith' move from Halifax to here.

I'm praying for longevity in this job so if you feel so inclined, you can do the same :-).

And ....

2011-05-09T15:55:00.002-03:00

... of course I'm talking about tattoos again. This is the cross I made on Paint in Microsoft Office. I think its a little pretty .... don't know I'll ever use it, but its on the drawing board anyway.

Thats all folks!

LLM

My Core Belief

2011-05-09T15:49:00.002-03:00

While this is the font I'll use on my next tatttoo - which will say "Called to Love - Eph 5:2", this is truly my core belief. Sometimes I think I am "special happy", you know when someone is mentally challenged and thinks on the level of a child. You may laugh, but I am fairly serious when I say that because while I seem to think that everyone should just be nice and love each other ..... noone else seems to think along those lines. (especially in my workplace - *sigh*)

You know, if we just loved a little more - the world would be a better place. Period.

Thats all.

LeeLeeM.

Lazy Weekend

2011-05-09T15:40:00.003-03:00

Friday Night: Boot camp which was so lame I had to go to the gym and do a workout there. Tanning and long awaited bed. I do love to sleep.
Saturday Day:
This

(picture from weheartit.com)

Cleaned/Laundried/Put my summer clothes in the closet, stored winter clothes. Too bad when it snows again in June - I'm not giving in to it. I will prevail and keep on keeping on and wear one of my 23 skirts. Yes, 23. All for $15 or less (some given to me) and acquired over the years- I'm my mothers daughter and can sniff out a sale like noones business.
I realized I have way too many clothes and its a ridiculous habit - this shopping thing I do.
I went to church with Bree. Well, she came with me.
I went out with Stace after and ran into my Exxon people and they had some encouraging news for me.
Sunday was rainy and cold so I slept in then spent the day with my precious Britt and painted our toes, watched Breakfast at Tiffany's and gorged on amazing potatoe chips.
I love my weekend life. Work life is heinous and dramatic and stressful, so I am super thankful for my weekends that always seem to be filled with wonderful.

I'd Chop My Locks

2011-05-09T15:38:00.001-03:00

if they'd look like this all the time. pretty sure i don't have her stylist/beauty team.

Google Today

2011-05-09T15:16:00.005-03:00

Today is the 76th Birthday of the creator of the Little Miss and Mr Series. (thats all I know about that ... and I haven't researched it further, so please take it at face value) And Google has honored his birthday with a brand new picture everytime you log on Google. So - guess who sat there and opened the page, clicked and saved? over and over? Yup. Me!

Mr. Tickle

Mr. Slow

Mr. Happy

Miss (i think) Forgetful. HaHa. I literally forget if this is Miss or Mr.

Mr. Bump

Mr. Rush

Mr Funny

Miss Tiny

Miss Shy

Miss Naughty

Miss Messy

Miss Curious

Miss Chatterbox (so me!)

Cheers!
LeeLee

Just Stay

2011-04-14T15:23:00.003-03:00

Beautiful story Connie sent via email. Makes me hope I'm in-tune enough to do the same if I am ever required to.

A nurse took the tired, anxious serviceman to the bedside.

"Your son is here," she said to the old man.

She had to repeat the words several times before the patient's eyes opened.

Heavily sedated because of the pain of his heart attack, he dimly saw the young uniformed Marine standing outside the oxygen tent. He reached out his hand. The Marine wrapped his toughened fingers around the old man's limp ones, squeezing a message of love and encouragement.

The nurse brought a chair so that the Marine could sit beside the bed. All through the night the young Marine sat there in the poorly lighted ward, holding the old man's hand and offering him words of love and strength. Occasionally, the nurse suggested that the Marine move away and rest awhile.

He refused. Whenever the nurse came into the ward, the Marine was oblivious of her and of the night noises of the hospital - the clanking of the oxygen tank, the laughter of the night staff members exchanging greetings, the cries and moans of the other patients.

Now and then she heard him say a few gentle words. The dying man said nothing, only held tightly to his son all through the night.

Along toward dawn, the old man died. The Marine released the now lifeless hand he had been holding and went to tell the nurse. While she did what she had to do, he waited.

Finally, she returned. She started to offer words of sympathy, but the Marine interrupted her.

"Who was that man?" he asked.

The nurse was startled, "He was your father," she answered.

"No, he wasn't," the Marine replied. "I never saw him before in my life."

"Then why didn't you say something when I took you to him?"

"I knew right away there had been a mistake, but I also knew he needed his son, and his Son just wasn't here.

When I realized that he was too sick to tell whether or not I was his son, knowing how much he needed me, I stayed."

I came here tonight to find a Mr. William Grey. His Son was killed in Iraq today, and I was sent to inform him. What was this gentleman's name?

The Nurse with tears in her eyes answered . . . . .Mr. William Grey....

The next time someone needs you ... Just be there. Stay.

Me n' The Heid

2011-04-14T15:22:00.000-03:00

A little fun with iBooth ...

Tales From The Crypt, er Daily Life of Me

2011-04-13T15:39:00.008-03:00

So, I have to post these "Overheards". Hope you enjoy.

At DiscoveryLand (where I babysit at church) wearing jeans with a torn out knee (purchased that way ...) little Jerry, aged 3, touches my knee while we were sitting crossed legged for the Bible story and looks at me quizzically and says "Your pants are broken". The styles of 2011 must be very perplexing to a toddler ...

Also at church. Auntie made an appearance in her wheelchair after a few months of touch and go health issues/arctic temperatures for too long. She was spunky as ever, with beautiful clothes on and Mora turns to me ,after I commented on how nice it was that she was there, and said "Yeah, the trouble is, noones going to feel sorry for her, she looks so good". Followed by her signature laugh that makes me warm inside :-).

This one is from work. Partner whom the company is named after and approximately 63 years old to another partner of the same peer group and says "Do you ever play Angry Birds"?

At a hockey game last year, but definitely worth mentioning: Britney's comment in regards to a video of Sidney Crosby was "I'd cougar that, would you"? Leave it to her to make the word cougar a verb. And thats why I love her.

Another Britney term. Another cougar term. When red wine stains yours lips, you have whats known as 'cougar lips'.

Now to Handley. In response to me telling him and Jonah that bullies get beat up on the playground (I was doing my best auntie/kind but stern lecture on them picking on Nate). He looks up from his lego and without missing a beat says "No, they don't. They just get telled on to the principal".

Thats all for now.

Cheers, Leanne

Funny What a Flat Iron Can Do

2011-03-25T02:11:00.003-03:00

After a day of wet hair in a ponytail. It was so hilarious, it had to be photo documented.

After velcro rollers, careful flat-ironing and smoothing serum.

I think I look a lot like Ramona here.

A Sweet Little Love Story

2011-03-11T03:10:00.003-04:00

I got this in an email probably 13 years ago and its had a profound effect on me. affect? I forget. Anyway - pardon the melodrama, but its a beautiful story and felt it should be shared.

John, a young soldier, stood up from the bench, straightened his army uniform, and studied the crowd of people making their way through grand Central Terminal in New York City. He was looking for a woman whom he knew, but whose face he didn't. He would recognize her by a small rose in her lapel.

Their story began several years before in a Florida used bookstore. He bought a poetry book. When he got home and started to read it, he became intrigued not by the words of the author, but by the notes that were penciled in the margin. The words in a woman’s handwriting reflected a thoughtful soul and an insightful mind. In the front of the book, he discovered the previous owner’s name and hometown. With a great deal of effort, he found her address.

He wrote her a letter in which he introduced himself. The next day, Pearl Harbor was attacked. He enlisted and was soon shipped overseas.
He wrote again.

She finally responded.

They developed a correspondence.

A romance was budding.

Every time he requested a photograph, she refused. She said that if it was really meant to be, it wouldn’t really matter what she looked like.

Finally, the war was over, and John was to return from overseas. They scheduled their long-awaited meeting on a Friday evening at 7 o’clock at Grand Central. She wrote, “You’ll recognize me by the small red rose that I’ll have in my lapel. He got there two hours early.

Let’s let the young soldier tell the rest of the story:“At just about 7 p.m. a young woman was walking toward me. I stood up. She was the most stunning woman I had ever seen in my life. I started moving toward her, and then I noticed that she wasn’t wearing a small rose in her lapel.

When she walked past me she said, ‘Going my way, soldier?’ I was just about to follow her when I saw directly behind her another woman who was looking at me expectantly. She was much older than I had imagined and not as attractive as I hoped. She was wearing a small rose in her lapel. I wanted to follow the other woman.

But I didn’t.

I was clutching the book from the used bookstore that began it all. I was going to give it to her as a present.

“‘Hello, I’m John, I’m so glad to meet you.’ “ Even as I said these words, I was thinking of the other woman. ‘Would you like to go to dinner?’

“The older woman seemed confused and said, Son, I don’t know what this is all about, but that beautiful young woman who was walking in front of me pleaded with me to wear this small red rose in my lapel. She said if you were still going to take me out to dinner, I should tell you that she’ll be waiting for you in the restaurant in the hotel right across the street. She said it was some kind of test”.

See, I told it was great. :-)

Time Flies Part IV

2011-01-23T19:31:00.002-04:00

I BOOKED MY FLIGHT HOMMMMMMMMME!!!!!!! FEB 16 1PM for 9 days.

But before then, I have to find another place to live. I AM a modern day gypsy. And I hate it, its unsettling and anxiety inducing.

And remember my tattoo goof? Well, I had to get it touched up Friday night, the purple was fading, a natural part of the healing process. of a brand new tat. I was so scared to go, as I hate conflict, but I knew I had to stand up for myself in this situation and not be bullied into something I didn't want. Since he wouldn't call me or own up to the error.

It turns out, I won't bore you with the details, my prayers worked and I was calm and kind, and since he's going to do my next tattoo, and I got amazing advice from my bosses daughter who knows (tattoo artist) personally and told me how to effectively get what I want .... the end result is:

HE'S GOING TO PAY FOR THE FIRST THREE SESSIONS OF LASERING!!!

Because his name is on the line and I'm the second mistake in 7 years, and because I came to him with a plethora of references citing his work, and him as a person, he is doing this for me.

I asked if he thought I was over-reacting and he told me he couldn't believe how mellow I was about it. And I had trouble getting through to him because Erin at the front never told him I called .... so from now on, I'll deal with him directly through email.

So its not going to take a long time to get it lasered. I'm only getting the "d" in dance lasered completely, and the "ance" will just get faded and he can work around that.

So very relieved. I had pretty intense anxiety attacks about this. ACK! A year of putting thought into this, and carefully researching my choices of artists, etc. To have a mistake made broke my heart, but he's fixing it.

So very, very, happy.

Next up is a cross with "Called to Love" written under it. Gee, pretty soon, I"ll have the entire NIV inked on me :-). Just kiddin' Dad and Mom! Don't worry, it'll be the KJV.... Still kidding.

And that concludes the "Time Flies"Series.

Cheers,

LLMac

Time Flies Part III

2011-01-23T19:19:00.002-04:00

While the mall I got the job at is 27 kms from my house, Maria asked me to house/dog sit while she was in England for three weeks.

I said yes, after a week of thinking about it. I would've said no if she had someone else to do it, but she didn't. So I was mom to a Newfoundland dog and a Bermese Mountain dog for 21 days.

(speaking of counting down :-) )

I am not a dog person. Period.

I will never do it again. Period.

Even for my beloved Maria. I will say no next time.

But her house is such a beautiful, peaceful haven retreat. And its only 7 or 8 kms away from the mall. I only had to drive into the city three mornings for work. The rest of the time, our office was closed for the holidays.

I got to relax and stay in a home and it was spectacular.

Bree and Britt came over the week of Christmas and we exchanged presents and drank wine and chatted. Heres something weird: We are very close friends. All three of us equally close but we don't see alot of each other, and it just proved how much we need to rely on each other ...

After an hour of chit chat, laughing, opening presents, eating, letting dogs out, the Newf dog knocking Britt to her feet (wish I had video, one of the funniest things I've seen in ages!!), we each had a turn with the conch (Remember the book in Grade 11 , Lord of the Flies) and it turns out, all three of us had something major and disrupting happening in our lives. We spent the first hour being goofy and silly pretending we were all ok.

It really opened my eyes to the importance of communication and prayer for each other (even when we don't know what is or isn't happening in others lives.) And how vital friendship is.

Those girls are the glue that have kept me together and kept me in Calgary. And it made me sad to know they were having troubles and I didn't know. But I didn't ask .... nor did they, I guess, but we've vowed to not let that happen again. ;-)

Thats all on that topic, folks,

Cheers,

LLMac

Time Flies Part II

2011-01-23T18:54:00.002-04:00

So in the aftermath of my unexpected work situation, the holidays appeared out of nowhere.

I am not a fan of Christmas. Kind of never have been, but the last two have been so totally brutal out here, with no family around; and I wish the month of December away, almost hour by hour.

So I took a job at Danier Leather in a spectacular mall here called Cross Iron Mills. The job was kind of crap pay, but I needed something to take my mind off the fact that I was going to wake up on Christmas Day alone again. I would've gone home but my co-worker who shares responsibilities with me had the holidays off. I am so glad I took the job. I have never had so much fun while my feet throbbing from 8 hour shifts on my feet on tile floor. I literally loved my job there. I got to chat up people alllllll day long!! I got to help dumb boyfriends and clueless husbands pick out coats for their beloved. It was brilliant. They would aimlessly point to another staff member or myself and say "yeah, shes about that size". I laughed/joked/flirted ;-) my way into sales. Naturally, not in a scam artist kind of way, because they had until the 7th to return their goods. I finished my last shift last Saturday and its so nice to have my weekends back. I had two days off in December!! I was exhausted - so the first weekend I had off (early Jan) I went to sleep one Friday night (maybe with a couple glasses of wine) and got out of bed 36 hours later. I couldn't even shower when I managed to wake up sometime the next afternoon, I was so beat. Then Sunday, I was back to normal.

I will miss the staff there, the thrill of making a sale, and the sheer delight of people trying on gorgeous coats, feeling like a rockstar and purchasing their coat at a huge discount. This is going to sound silly, but I feel like I was a very positive part of their day, I believe in the value of clothing, (good clothing) and how it plays on your psyche. I fully believe that the better you dress, the better you feel, the better you present yourself to the world. Its just how we're wired. I even had a couple of people come back and tell my manager how much they liked me.

Just what the doctor ordered me thinks after my soul-shake up earlier in the month.

Thats all on that topic.

Cheers

LLMac

Time Flies Part I

2011-01-23T18:23:00.003-04:00

Wow. Its been two months and two days since my last post.

I must admit, its been a wacky 60 days. But who am I kidding? Its been a wacky 36 years! But I've not blogged because I wasn't in the mood. My life is just mild disaster after another, so I think I was waiting for my desire to write to return, as well as some postive news to share.

Well, theres not been negative news, so thats positive :-). Heres how my life has gone since Nov 21.

I had major drama at work that saw my reputation once again at the hands of a manipulative, not-truth-telling drama queen who assumed I was passive and wimpy, given the joking/goofing around we did as she was temping in my office.

MY office. The office I love, the Partners I respect, the job (I don't love, but put up with because of the aforementioned qualities). MY amazing little corner of Calgary, MY fairy tale of an office, tucked away in my favorite part of the city.

She thought I'd lay down in defeat because I was (as she told me repeatedly the previous two weeks she spent by my side) 'one of the sweetest, kindest people she ever met') (didn't I have her fooled heehee).

She thought I would back down when her aggression increased, thus her level of non-truths, and as it turns out, the sympathy she received by some of my star-struck co-workers. (she played poker professionally before she came to us - she was quite the hit! And definitely with me too, funny enough)

Long story short, she was fired for causing so much trouble, but not before wrecking havoc with my perfect little work equilibrium. Not before the actions of two of the Partners would permanently change my perception of humanity. Sounds dramatic? It was. It was a complete wake up call that You HAVE TO LOOK OUT FOR NUMBER ONE. And not in a selfish way. Just in a natural, don't be so flippin' naive to think that just because you are good to people that they will be good to you way. In the end, ten of the twelve partners came to my defense, seeing my spotless record :-) as a drama-free employee, hard worker, pleasant, etc .... and life goes on.

Yeahhhhh .... 35 and just learning that lesson, after how many times??

I'm not mad, I'm just trying to re-adjust to this new survival method. Its very,very hard for me to not give 100%. Hard for me to do something halfway. If I love, I love all the way. If I'm devoted to my job, I'm devoted to a fault. Unfortunately, there are many things in life I don't have a mid-point re-evaluation station .... its not necessarily a great trait to possess. However, I'm just trying to (two months later) find my balance at work. I still like it there. Alot. And noone has really mentioned that girl, they let it drop. So thats helpful, and its been smoother since the New Year, thankfully. But I am very much on alert, and trying to improve my situation ... I'll keep you posted :-)

I long for the day that I am no longer the target for the women that give my gender a bad name.

Its exhausting. Its funny though, the whole thing has toughened me up. In a really, calm and gentle way. (does that even make sense??)

Thats all on that.

A Little Sunday Diversion

2010-11-21T22:19:00.006-04:00

So I was at the YMCA pool today. People Watching.

And I know theres a Bible verse somewhere about judging. You know the one "Judge not, lest ye be judged"or in the new cool slang Bible "Don't be hatin' less ya wanna be hated on, jerk". (is that an accurate representation?) Anyway, I was gentle in my judging, and repented immediately.

But I wondered as I sat in the hot tub, sadly and very knowingly stopping the tanning process that had begun a mere 2 hours prior (you aren't supposed to shower for a long time after tanning) if I was going to be like the woman beside me: chubby, wait, full on fat, old lady confidently sitting in her saggy one peice (not the only thing saggy) with oversize diamond earrings peeking out from the rubber strap of her bubbly (bubblegum pink) swim cap to protect her beehive. (this conclusion made seeing the height to which the cap was stretched. She was cute as a button. Telling stories about driving to Vegas. I wonder if I had a flash into my future ...

Just Wonderin'

LeeLeeMac

Sunday Sermon Observations

2010-11-21T22:03:00.003-04:00

So this morning at church the sermon had to do with love conquering resentment. ( or something like that). But, of course, I daydreamed most of the time and looked at people's clothes and cute babies and cute couples and all the cotton-tops (elderly people with white hair) and planned my workout for later and how happy I was that the cute little trendy emo-ish kid at the front desk of the Canyon Meadows gym gave me about 5 free tanning passes ... blah blah la la ...

But one thing I did get out of (the sermon) when Job 10:1 appeared on the screen:

New American Standard Bible (©1995)"I loathe my own life; I will give full vent to my complaint; I will speak in the bitterness of my soul.

And while I now forget how it was referenced by Pastor Scott- all I could think of was "Oh!! That was me. ALL YEAR. And it struck me once again and this time a lot more real than the other times I've been reminded of the majority of 2010 ....

I was a miserable person to be around, because as I struggled blindly through a mess that wasn't ending and a mess I had no idea how to get out of , I thought honesty was the best policy ....

ugh. So embarassed now to think of all the times I didn't hold back on what I was really feeling about God, and how I felt abandoned by Him, about my unemployment, and on and on and on .... I wasn't feeling sorry for myself (at least I told myself I wasn't) but I literally loathed my life. And whoever asked, found out in no uncertain terms that it was kicking my ass.

And for that, I am deeply sorry. And for that, I am deeply appreciate of my friends who stuck by me. New friends, that had no real investment in me yet ... And my amazing and understanding family. I love you all to (as Handley would say) the stars and the back of the moon.

Thats all.

Cheers,

L.

So One Day, I Went to the Zoo

2010-11-17T15:42:00.002-04:00

and saw Wallabys. (this is not the pic I took) I'm much too lazy these days to download my Rebel pics to my comp.

and all I could think of was ....

Grandma and Grandmie ... Yup. You got it.

All I could picture was their Wallaby shoes.

Grandma standing in her kitchen letting me bake (poor soul) cinnamon rolls with her.

and

Grandmie, walking up the road to our house for her daily dose of grandchildren and tea with Mom.

So weird. Sometimes I wonder if I'm operating on all cylinders.

Go See It!!

2010-11-17T15:40:00.003-04:00

Go Go Go.

You will laugh yourself silly.

Picture Anchorman with a blue head!

I'm going to watch it again in December when Bree is finally free from school.

Ran-Dom

2010-11-08T15:26:00.003-04:00

So I had this thought today as I remembered something I did yesterday that was really dumb (surprised??) and how I somehow missed "getting in trouble" for it. Like missed getting in trouble in a really bizarre and random way. (I'm 35, I don't really get in trouble anymore ) And I, for the first time in my life thought about my guardian angel and what must he/she look like?? Is he/she cute and chubby? Does he/she have dark hair like me? And the only image that came to mind was of an exhausted, worn out, giant bags under HER eyes, gray haired angel with toned legs and arms from running so much!
I'm sure she feels like the one below, first thing in the morning, all smiley and looking forward to the day with this beautiful verse to guide her ....

But by noon .... this is how she feels ... ready for bed!

Another random thought from a bored, and over-active imagination.

Cheers yo!

LeeLeeMac

oh p.s. - I did something sooo soooo stooopid last week and literally promised God that if He let me off with this one, I'd never do anything so dumb again (can't believe still that I did what I did) and He took care of it in such an extreme way that I had to kind of sit down, breathe a deep sigh of relief, and I turbo realized that He's got me! I love it!!

oh p.p.s - be REALLY REALLY careful and check the name in the "to" box of your email before you send off your message ... just sayin' ....

K. For Real - Cheers!

Just a Little Lesson Learned Lately

2010-11-06T21:03:00.003-03:00

You know, sometimes when good things happen to bad people, you question the validity of God's ways (if you believe His hand is in every moment and movement in our lives). And on the contrary, when bad things happen to those who are following Him with all their heart - you wonder where the balance between good and evil actually lies.

And if you've been there personally, and when you've been there more times than necessary, you know that coping skills come with experience. Though they are varied and tend to wan in unfamiliar territory.

When you are too scared to look behind in near tangible fear of what just happened, too scared to look ahead in paralyzing anxiety of what may be coming your way, you fix your gaze downward and keep walking. With no plan, no focus, or agenda, you slip into a space that is dark and without time. Where your soul feels like it has died and the will to even get out of there is, at best, weak.

However you escape, whatever your means of survival are, a familial support system, church, friends, a therapist - or sheer will and waiting it out - you will discover you're changed.

For better or worse. But you're definitely different.

And while it seems grossly unfair, no one has ever been promised life was fair - we have to remember that despite our fears and panic, God actually has this.

Even if you don't believe this, please try to believe it. Even if its a tiny spec of hope to latch onto on days you want your world to end. Pick a scripture or a song that is your life-song for whatever you are going through. I'm not saying it'll make it easier, but it will divert your attention for a second and may be the very thing that gets you through whatever segment of time you are struggling to clamber past. Some days you are day by day, some days you are hour by hour. Some, minute by minute.

Bree and I have this running joke (based on two true stories told of people rushing to the rescue of someone else yelling "I got this, I'm a lifeguard".) So now we say alll the time "I got this, I'm a Nova Scotian" or something else completely unrelated to the subject at hand. Could be buying groceries for a bbq or grabbing a glass of water for each other. But it can be applied in a non-joke way to life's dark moments.

With 'rhyme or reason' that is often hidden to us - He's got this.

Keep the faith (even if this means calling your dad sometimes twice a day to make sure you're still alive)

The hands that hold the world are holding you.

*I hope I'm not tested in this venue of life again anytime soon - I'd just like to pass along a thought or two I've had lately*

RAT-A-TAT-TAT

2010-11-02T15:39:00.006-03:00

As usual, theres a long story behind this post..
Part A:
Last October I was super sad one night (a dumb boy dumped me pretty ceremoniously and I was devastated (well, my ego was)) and was laying in bed before going to sleep just kind of meditating on what had happened as I was completely blindsided and wondering if I was ever going to not be fooled by ‘love’ (and mortally embarrassed). I was half praying/half falling asleep so I made one last prayer asking for a verse to settle my mind, just something little (literary Xanax) to calm me.
I haphazardly opened my Bible to Jeremiah. 31
I know. Jeremiah.
I was like “ok, whatever God, Jeremiah it is, I guess.
However, I’d opened to chapter 31 and began reading. For some reason, verse 3 struck me. So I woke up a little and read another verse. Soon, I was sitting upright and wide awake.
This chapter was completely speaking to me. Literally, I felt like this was my promise – straight from God himself. I credit that to the quick recovery of my sensitive, naïve, never-gonna-learn-are-ya-? heart.
With a then recent renewed interest in “Godness” I shared this revelation with (well, anyone who would listen, as I was still in shock that this had happened) Ashley in particular. That’d be my sweet baby sister Ashley.
Months went by and life went by: my birthday came and I received a darling painting by her with her interpretation of verse _ which is “She will once again dance”. Because this verse had been one of the ‘stitches’ that mended my heart, I loved the painting, but more importantly, I loved that this was Ashley’s version of it and I liked it better than the verse. The fact that she took into account how precious this chapter was to me and made me a painting was beyond priceless (not possible, thus an oxymoron, sorry)

Part B:
I’d wanted a tattoo for some time now, but since its foreverness, you have to be pretty sure you want this and pretty sure of what you’re getting inked on your body. Now, in NS, if you have a tattoo, you’re a bit of a bad-ass, a bit edgy and a have a bit of rebellious blood in you. But out here, no tattoo is the new tattoo. Everyone has them. I know a guy that has a verse in Matthew on the inside of his bicep, paired with skulls on the other side of his arm and this guy is salt of the earth, a missionary in Sudan, rebuilding churches that were destroyed by Muslims. Haha – when I first met him and his friends, who are all tatted up with verses and crosses , I was like “wow – christians with tattoos’ groovy!

Last year, I had a consultation with a well known and well respected artist and I was going to get a cross (deep purple) on the inside of my wrist with ‘be still’ written under it. But I lost my job and didn’t think it was wise to get it when I didn’t know my financial future (it was only $100, but still) And over the winter, I became so disillusioned and bitter that I’d been super mad if in my daily fury if I’d have to look at my wrist and see be still! Lol. Like someone telling you to calm down when you’re upset … But since I’ve been looking at the painting everyday all year and through this pain and on the days I wanted to give up, somewhere deep inside I believed God’s promise to me on that late night last October that I was going to be ok and that, indeed, I would once again dance.
So, I decided that now was the time. I’ll be eating in a lot this month, and no dips into Urban Barn to see whats on sale to put on my plain little apt walls. I made the consultation appointment again and this time, I was going to go through with it. So I saddled up on Wednesday and sat through about an hour of the worst pain I’ve ever experienced in my life.
Bony foot bones = stupid pain.
The letters weren’t so bad, but the stem of the flower was b-r-u-t-al. my thighs have little round bruise marks from me digging my hands into them. He told me not to move. So I didn’t. I was sweating like a pig, breathing very (VERY) deep breaths, and almost passed out once. He stopped a few times for me, but was very impressed with how tough I was. (heehee – guess (as Dad would say) he didn’t know he was dealing with a tough MacKinnon gal from Cape Breton??)
It was bandaged for a few hours so I couldn’t see it. Then i was laying in bed that night and I freaking panicked. Full on “WHAT HAVE I DONE”. This is FOREVER. More forever than anything else out there. It only lasted a minute because have wanted this for months, it wasn’t a spontaneous move and I love what it represents. It s a promise straight from upstairs that while I literally dance like a white girl from Nova Scotia, figuratively, I will dance, even though theres going to be times where I’ll be ‘sitting this one out’. And since I won’t always have Ashley’s painting, my promise, on my person, I have this.
Forever. (did I mention that J)
The flower was drawn by me – its my doodle – always and has been for years, and thought it was a good match.

Moments before:

Shortly after:

Still shortly after:

Finished product - ready to face the world: (pardon the quality - its my blackberry)

And feel free to discuss amongst yourselves the obvious mistake this well known artist made ... i am aware and am presently deciding on how to deal with it.

Peace Out -

PERMANANT FULL TIME

2010-11-02T15:37:00.002-03:00

More good news. I signed on the dotted line at my new permanent full time job, complete with RSP matching, bonus’ twice a year, great flex time, overtime, room to grow etc.

I am thankful, grateful, relieved, happy, calm, peaceful and feel secure in my job. Its been a long time coming, but its worth the wait, I can’t imagine working for a better company. They are very complimentary when a job is done well and honest when something needs to be worked on.
Thursday, a client was at the front desk waiting for someone and about 4 of us were around the desk working as usual which involves goofiness, laughing and general hooliganness – and the guy was staring at us a little cod fish mouth-ish and said ‘wow, you guys have a lot of fun here, don’t you?"

And the beautiful thing is, is that this is everyday, its not put on for visitors or its not an ‘every now and then’ thing. This is the real deal. We have dumb nicknames for each other and we are often caught laughing our heads off, but always working, and (generally productive). Its amazing. I’ve never been exposed to a workplace like that and God knows, I’ve been exposed to a lot of work places!

I am over the moon that I am where I am, 5 kms from work, free parking, off work at 1 on Fridays, so many, many wonderful perks of working there. It’s one of the trendiest parts of the city, its across the river from downtown, so we still get the downtown ‘feel’ but its not crazy busy, its quaint and has a real artsy feel to it.

Again with the ‘B’ word I hate so much, but I feel truly blessed in life right now. I am surrounded by good people and have waited all my life to feel like I do right now.

And I am thankful for my faithful friends/family who prayed for me and kept me going when I couldn't do it myself!

Dominos, But With Cars

2010-11-02T15:33:00.001-03:00

Oh my goodness I’m an idiot sometimes.

I was travelling down a fairly unfamiliar street last night in Calgary and when the red light turned green, I went straight,

Only to find out seconds later that it was a one way, and I was in fact, going the wrong way. So I muttered a few choice words and whipped around and sat at the red light to turn left (since I should’ve turned right the first time) only to find that about 5 cars had followed and were stockpiled up trying to turn around in the same fashion.

For some reason, it sent me into a fit of giggles – it looked like a scene from a Mr. Bean movie or something.

Did I Ever Tell You About the Time .... ?

2010-11-02T15:23:00.003-03:00

That I ran over a guy’s leg? No joke.
But its not like you imagine, at least I don’t think so.
Heres how the story goes:
In Halifax about 6 years my boyfriend at the time whom we’ll call … hmmm whats a good name for a “jerk of all trades?’

Lets call him Marc.

So, Marc and I were returning peacefully home from a shopping excursion, his at Home Depot, mine at Winners. We were driving from BLIP (Bayers Lake Industrial Park) with Pink stryofoam on the top of the truck, and him driving like an old man, (which I actually thought was a little bit cute most of the time) noticing everything that was happening around him, me with head down as we exit onto the Bedford highway, searching through my bag of bargains. I didn’t like him anymore at this point, I was just happy for the ride to Winners. Heehee .
As we merge into traffic already going at speeds exceeding the posted 100km/h, he says in alarm “That’s a leg we just ran over”. It was just getting dark at this time and I said in my sweetest (is there a sarcasm font I can insert here?) voice ever as I’m turning around to humor him and his outrageous statement “Don’t be such a weirdo, Marc, you didn’t just run over a leg, you’re such adrama que ---- OHMYGOD! That s a LEG you just ran over.
There was the bottom part of a human leg getting knocked around cars undercarriages at said excessive speeds.
“What should I do?”, he asked. ‘should I stop’?
YES I screamed – that a freaking LEG – ON THE HIGWAY!
So we pull over, back up and see a guy sitting against the concrete median that has no additional shoulder with traffic screaming by him. I Call 911.

Listen to how this conversation went: (or at least its loosely based on actual events)

911: 911 What is your emergency?
Me: Hey, I’m on the Bedford Hwy just before the Peggy’s Cove exit heading into the city from Bayers Lake and theres a guy who’s been hit by a car and his leg is severed. ('cept that I wasn’t exactly that articulate, I was f-r-e-a-k-i-n-g out.)
911: ma’am, is he conherent.? Whats your name, phone number etc etc ?
Me: Yes, we’re conversing with him. He’s alive with no other visible injuries. But he’s going to be hit again if traffic isn’t stopped soon.(there was no shoulder, just room enough for him to sit with his remaining leg tucked under him, very very scary to watch this unfolding) As I’m giving my name, phone number, age, blood type …
911: Ma’am, can you go across to make sure he’s ok?
Me: No. I can talk to him from here. There are more cars stopping, now
911: Yes, we’re getting more calls. Can you please go across the road to comfort him?
Me: No ma’am I can’t. That’s how he got hurt in the first place.
911: more questions .. blah blah Will you go across the road to be with him?
Me: Ma’am with all due respect, I’m wearing a short jean skirt, its almost dark and cars are driving past me at about 120km/h. I’m not going to risk my life. Are you sending emergency vehicles here or whats happening?
Soooo … by then, other cars had stopped and some guy went across the road to be with the victim.
Turns out – as I’d gone to visit him in the hospital – that he’d had depression problems and was off his medication. He told the police that he and his friend were crossing the road (no crosswalk and thick woods on the other side) and his friend took off to get help and never came back. Nor did the person that hit him.
His story was always fishy to me – and I said to Marc one day in conversation, as we had many deep conversations about the horrendous shock of the whole situation, that I thought he was trying to commit suicide.
His leg was too damaged to reattach and he had to have it amputated above the knee and told me one time in the hospital that he was going to sue. I asked him who he could possibly sue, he was unfortunately the one at fault in this case. He was crossing a highway in the dark, and even though it was a hit and run, he didn’t have any grounds to sue (you just said in your head that he didn’t have a leg to stand on …. Didn’t you? Cuz I did but decided not to write it, but let you say it first, so you won’t be hatin’.
After about 3 weeks of visiting him, bringing him Pete’s salad’s and healthy food, etc, I started to distrust him and thought he was getting too close to us, so I did what I do best – and ignored phone calls and he eventually stopped. Totally the wrong way to deal with it, but at the time, the only option I saw … so don’t know anything else about him ….
The end of the story as I know it is that the year before, he’d gotten hit by a car and had received a sizable settlement and he was hoping that this would be the case the second time around.
Turns out, I wasn’t entirely wrong about him. I can’t say that very often, so I’ll take this opportunity to point that out :-)
Crazy, hey?

Its Who You Know

2010-10-07T19:54:00.002-03:00

Funny Story:
I went to visit Auntie and Uncle Lloyd last night at their "mostly senior" building in which you have to dial a number on an intercom to be buzzed in. So Please picture this scenario:
Me, with nerd glasses, Levi jeans and a black turtleneck. Most unthreatening looking person in the city. I dialed the code, Uncle Lloyd answered and in his advanced stage in life combined with the speaker phone intercom in an echo-y entryway, it resulted in a extra loud conversation that went something like this:
Me: HI UNCLE LLOYD ITS LEANNE
Uncle Lloyd: LEANNE DEAR! COME ON IN (I will never grow tired of hearing his sweet warm voice saying my name. I heart him!)
(in the meantime, an elderly lady, upon hearing voices, peers around the corner and stands in front of the glass door, and I smile sweetly)
Intercom: (silence, he must've forgotten to press "9")
Lady: (muffled voice due to aforementioned glass door between us, talking to her caregiver) I can't let her in, I don't know her.
Me: (still standing waiting for the door to buzz to allow access)
Lady: DO YOU LIVE HERE???
Me: NO, BUT MY AUNT AND UNCLE DO
Lady: WHOOOO?
Me: MY UNNNNNCLE AND AUUUUNT
Lady: (now 3 inches from glass, cupping her ear) I CAN'T HEAR YOU!
Uncle Lloyd: HELLO
Me: HI UNCLE LLOYD, IT DIDN'T WORK
Uncle Lloyd: SORRY DEAR, COME ON UP!
Me: I opened the door and walked through
Lady: (semi following me) Do you live here? Sorry I couldn't let you in, I don't know you.
Me: No, but my aunt and uncle do. No worries
Lady: Who's your aunt?
Me: Kaye Matheson
Lady: LOVE her! Why didn't you tell me?? Tell her her I said Hi! I'm so sorry I didn't let you in.

HAHAHAHAHA

I told them the story when I got upstairs and Auntie asked what she looked like, and I mentioned that she had an Eastern Europe accent, she knew right away who it was!!

So funny. One of my favorite things to have happen to me in a long time!!

Cheers!

A Walk Down (My Imagination) Memory Lane

2010-09-17T21:48:00.003-03:00

A Sunday drive to Okotoks yielded not only a deeper longing to live there and have a barn with horses and a sprawling house where my family could come and stay with me all at once but I found this amazing truck and had to stop to take pictures. It was 30,000 miles on it, it’s a 1948 and has sat in a barn in Sask for 30 years. Its $1800. About $30,000 to restore but its practically rust-free. I can get you the phone number if you want to buy it ....

I couldn’t help but let my mind wander and imagine the stories the truck could tell me. I wonder how many good crops it saw, how many stressful days and drives through the field with the owner wondering how he was going to make it.

I wonder if there were more happy times than sad times, more fruitful times than not and I wonder how many kids learned to drive in it; how many took it for joy rides through the pastures, or if it was the main transportation on any first dates to drive ins or A&W’s? I wonder if a new bride and groom drove away to start their life together in this then beautiful, shiny truck?

I wonder how much it cost to purchase and how hard the owner had to work to acquire it ...

I love old things and love to hear the stories surrounding them.

The Tower - In Various Forms of my Boredom

2010-09-17T21:28:00.004-03:00

No internet at my place has several draw-backs, one of which I will showcase below.

I get bored. Very bored.

And tool around with my fake Photoshop.

(this is the view of the Calgary Tower from the Streetlight trailer), in normal, non-altered view.

This is the tower if there were actually high-rises and the Tower itself in 1898.

This is the Tower if you lived in Blues Mills and peeked through the blinds (if you had blinds)everytime a car drove by your house.

This is the Tower if you thought the Fresh Breath strip you used was actually acid.

This is the Tower if Calgary ever flooded, which isn`t took far off the target after this non-summer.

This is the Tower if there was some freak accident of nature and the sun was high in the sky at dusk ...

Dontcha feel smarter just reading this post (my question mark doesn`t work, weird, i know! so just say the word post in a slighter higher pitched voice to simulate a question mark)

Later faithful readers

LeeLeeM

Putting Faces to Faces

2010-09-17T20:45:00.004-03:00

Don`t worry - I got permission from these kids - so don`t be thinking I`m exploitn` and stuff.
And ìf I sound preachy, thats not where my heart is, but I think its important sometimes to bring awareness to such things as homeless children. I`m not talking about the following kids in particular, though they may look like your typical little mouthy street kid who heckles you when they walk by - they ALL have their horrendous stories. Stories that make you gasp, make you tear up, give you goose bumps and fill you with understanding at their sometimes, lets say, less than desirable behaviour.

Theres one girl that comes to the truck each week and she is pregnant for the third time, other oldest two are in foster care and last week, her mother showed up with her. What the heck ... So she has little to no chance of making it in life given her start. And her `middle`is that to be initiated into this co-ed gang she was part of, she had to be gang-raped by 14 guys. I can`t even begin to begin imagining what that child must feel everyday.

I`d seen this kid (in the wacky jacket) earlier in the day in Kensington just wandering around in the middle of the day.

Do you know that some of them are so abused that its easier to live on the streets and get gang-raped and beat up, and live a life of theft and prostitution because its easier than being at home.

Pez. I don`t know her real name. Or her real eye color. Red contacts. Freakiest thing I`d ever seen.

Volunteer Dan. Source of entertainment, strong arm in controlling the kids, biker, leather jacket wearing bad-ass big hearted guy.

Dinner. Cooked entirely by me. Poor kids.

Eating area of the trailer

Sitting area upstairs (with leopard print cushions - Marias touches are everywhere here)

Lianne and Ryan preparing for the onslaught of kids.

Volunteer Sean. A good Nova Scotia boy. Such a gentle soul.

I just wanted to put a face to a face - so when you see a ratty dressed, dirty kid wandering the streets, just smile and be kind and know their story is far worse than yours.

Peace

QUOTABLES

2010-09-17T20:44:00.000-03:00

Cool Quotes I`d like to share from the book The Alchemist: (great read)

One is loved because one is loved. No reason is needed for loving

In reference to being in pursuit of your dreams: Every second of the search is a second`s encounter with God and with Eternity.

Be careful what you say – Life might be listening.

Back Up North (Kinda) For the Weekend

2010-09-17T20:32:00.004-03:00

I went to Edmonton again, this time in my truck. I wanted to open it up so bad, really didn`t want to encounter them there coppers. And they were everywhere. Though the two lane highway in the middle of the day (I got to leave at 1pm, remember?) was so busy and slow, I went about 100 the entire way. Sorta bummed.

I stayed at my friend Carol`s place (remember, we worked at the Dept of Health together, and left together) both nights. I went up to take a course given by the Alberta Carpenters Union, I am calling it Plan B, because job security is apparently a thing of the past, I`m going to keep my options open and get as much as possible done in case of another lay-off. I am scarred and literally terrified of being laid off again – its an unpleasant trend in my life.

But I`m a spaz and got lost (shocking, I know) and was an hour late for the course. So I finally show up and enter a room full of men.

No females. All testosterone.

Natch. Story of my life.

And my spot had been taken so I couldn`t attend. I was pretty mad, but whatever, I made the best of it. I went back to Carols and fell asleep. Haha.

And got to spend the evening with the Flynn grandkids – Hayley and Faith – and took them to McDonalds where they spent most of their time in the playroom. They are so flippin`cute, I had a super time with them.

(sweet little Faith)

(Haley Hope)

Sunday was spent with the Edmonton Mathesons – Gerry, Betty and Merilee. And after a rainy drive, I was happy to be home safe and sound.

Some Much Needed Mom Time

2010-09-17T20:16:00.002-03:00

I made a quick trip to Edmonton to see Mom – less than 24 hours quick. She was on a shopping excursion and failed to let her middle kid know that she was a mere 3 hours away. So I jumped in the Wave and headed North. (whether or not she wanted ... heehee)

She`s so cute- she had a welcome gift for me – an Elizabeth Arden handbag filled with Bath and Body Works stuff and a really pretty body lotion from EA. We had a blast, good alone time. Went to church with her on Sunday. That was weird, it`d been a long time since I`d been to one of her church services. But amazingly enough, I knew a bunch of people there. Well, one of them didn`t remember me (downside to being old) He is a kid bro to friends of mine from my teenage years in church. And my old landlord and his wife from Vancouver were there visiting – the famous Stanley Wells and his sweet little wifey Vera. Neither have changed. HAHA Vera told me that she found a poem I`d written her when I moved back home. I turned scarlet when she told me in front of a group of people. Oh man,,, I`m still laughing in horror at what I possibly could`ve written in the wisdom of my 20 years on this earth. She loves it though and kept it all these years (15 –eeks). And another couple who were part of my church friends in Vancouver lives there now. Super weird to see them.

(Vera and I - I totally didn`t crop or edit these pics. sorry)

OH! I saw Sharon Blackie and got the coveted ``Darlin`, you `re bee-ooutiful`. Yup – waited for it like a little puppy expecting a treat. And inwardly said``Yesssssss, while bringing my preverbal arm in a `before Jersey Shore` fist pump. My female Cape Breton readers know how I feel.

(mom and sharon)

Upcoming Events

2010-09-17T20:15:00.000-03:00

I have a secret to share with you in a few weeks … I`m so excited and have been waiting for over a year for it . Circumstances last year led me to cancelling it altogether. I`ll keep you posted.

Ode to an Old Friend

2010-09-17T19:53:00.003-03:00

Dear “ The Wave”,

Its time to say goodbye and its with ambivalent feelings that I do so. I am forever grateful to you in so many ways and in so many situations. I am grateful first of all to your registered owners, my parents, who so generously relinquished you to my care in March of 09 when I decided to move from the slower pace you were used to with mom at your controls, to the busyness and craziness of Calgary where you were a necessary component; where relying on ‘two feet and a heartbeat’ or the loser cruiser would prove to be difficult , annoying, and not conducive to a happy social life.

We’ve travelled Canada’s most dangerous highway together twice, well, really , four times. And in those two trips to Calgary and back, we cheated death on several occasions through white out conditions, congested traffic travelling at bat-out-of-hell speeds, and while 18 wheelers loaded with anything from vehicles to logs would whizz by us, no doubt not even realizing that we were there: let alone that your driver was hanging on with both white knucked, tightly gripped hands, sweating and simultaneously chanting “I’m going to die, I’m going to die” and frantically praying to God that we’d survive this round, no doubt making random and ridiculous promises if prayers were answered.

You didn’t even mind when I loaded you up with rubbermaid bins and stuffed you full of my life, or what was left of my worldly possessions and drove the 10 hours to Calgary to start my next chapter.

We bombed around Calgary, many times wondering where the heck I was and I wonder how many kilometers were tacked on, lost and driving around in circles (or more accurately, squares) trying to navigate the maze of one way streets in downtown Cowtown.

We were like Bonnie and Clyde, (minus the crime part)
Sonny and Cher,
Peanut Butter and Jelly.

You get the picture, I really liked you.

I must admit though, (now that you’re gone and will never read this blog post) that I wasn’t entirely always satisfied that you weren’t a bigger, flashier, more socially acceptable car, nor was I always proud to be your driver. I thought that sometimes I was too cool for you; but in reality, I wasn’t. And the very fact that I thought I was made me the opposite. You were practical and cute, small and efficient and I could parallel park you any-where!

You got me safely to and from many places; you got me through two Alberta winters, one of which we soldiered through the untamed streets of the NE, where they don’t plow in hopes of Chinooks coming through and melting the enormous snowbanks and ruts that accrue.

Remember that time the Chinooks weren’t “like they used to be” and they didn’t melt the snow? And you had to pretend you were a snowmobile. Yeah, that was awesome, wasn’t it?

And remember when the snow didn’t melt until May, and then we had two more snowstorms? Yeah, that really kicked some serious mood-altering butt too.

But I kept winter tires on you and we made a great team and Dad’s skid control training (since I was 7) came in handy and I relearned how to winter drive like I was going up the Mountain Road in Blues Mills.

So with this I bid Adieu, with fondness and nostalgia – you were with me during a very important time in my life . You’ve heard me sing a lot and loud (and terrible) (eeks sorry !), You’ve heard me cry both happy tears and sad tears, and empty tears and lonesome tears and never told anyone what I mess I was. You were there on Hwy 63 when I decided that my life as it was , wasn’t working out for me, and I committed whole heartedly to return to God and whatever that step entailed. You were used for the greater good when you drove Mustard Seed people to church and delivered me and random others clothing donations to the Seed. You were my freedom and couldn’t have done this part of my journey without you and I’m glad it was you along for the ride … Just ask the photo radar guys, they know more than anyone just how along for the ride you were.

I’m going to miss you and your mild inability to make it to 6o going uphill in an acceptable timeframe, but you’re so cute that if you had cheeks, I’d seriously squeeze them.

I hope you find a nice, new home with nice people who will appreciate you as much as I do.

Good Luck and Peace out Homie!

Out With the Old, In With the New

2010-09-17T19:43:00.004-03:00

Sorry - pix are first - can`t figure Blogger out sometimes!
Above is Marshall, my salesguy. He was World`s strongest man 4 years in a row. At his peak, his neck was the size of my waist!
.... if my waist was 24 inches, that is ....

There she is ... I love her. Why are vehicles girls

My friend Natalie came along for the ``delivery``

Its mine ... all mine ... wait - and TD Bank`s. (forgot that little detail)

Yup – I done gone and got myself a Ford Truck. Now, where’d I put my piece of straw and Toby Keith CD?

Well, its an SUV, but I call it a truck. Sounds cooler (and it’s a truck chassis (I think so anyway))
The lease on my sweet little rickety Wave was up and it was time to move on to bigger and safer pastures. I got my job on Thursday, bought a car ruck on Saturday. No room to breathe financially, but I’ve done the math (I can hear my siblings laughing from here: me and math in the same sentence is a laugh out loud moment) and I can do this!

I bought a Ford Escape. She’s beautiful and I named her a name I can’t tell you because it started out as a joke and stuck …

Here’s how it all went down: I walked into the Ford dealership on a Friday afternoon after work like I owned the place. I had my most expensive jeans on. Rolled up with flipflops just to show them that I was a classy chick, but casual and confident enough to be chilled out. BAHAHA if they only knew how broke and clueless I was /am! With my big ass sunglasses, I looked like a woman you just wouldn’t mess with. Then of course, I unarmed them with my charm and sunny disposition … (again, cue the BAHAHA)

Marshall was the salesman up next and the poor soul, his Friday afternoon came to a crashing halt. I asked tonnes of questions, called Dad twice to ask his opinion, looked at a few options in the used lot then on to the new stuff.

I’m not going to bore you with the mundane (warning: oxymoron in progress)

But I went shopping more on Saturday morning to Kia, test drove a Forte and for some reason I didn’t want it. Even though it was 0% financing, same with the Nissan Versa I drove. I didn`t want a car. I wanted an SUV. I have for years. Not only an SUV, but a Ford Escape.
So I went back to Ford on Saturday afternoon and told them what Nissan and Kia were offering me and told them “sell me this Escape,( but on my terms my silence said).

AND I GOT IT!. Don’t know where the kahunas came from all of a sudden, but I totally wheeled and dealed on my own. Poor Dad, had to field my panicky phone calls and rabid questioning and second guessing.

My truck is very plain jane, but I got a good, safe, new (under warranty) high off the ground vehicle with the basics that I need. I`m super happy with it. Payments are completely manageable, insurance is super cheap, (upside of being old) and fuel economy is ridiculously spectacular. I almost get better mileage with this than the Wave.

I returned the car without hassle, said goodbye to it, cute little thing it is. But I`m way cuter in my Escape. Isn`t that what matters?

Just Sayin`

Good News at Last

2010-09-17T19:36:00.002-03:00

Long time no blog and not due to lack of action! Its been a month (ish) since my last entry and instead of my usual long-winded posts consisting of a expansive span of time, I will break it up into individual pieces. Hopefully this will keep the rambling to a minimum.

I tend to personify the expression “She could talk a cat off a fish truck”.

So moving into the first adventure after Ash and Dave’s (most amazing wedding party ever) wedding:

I won’t give all the details because they are too well , detailed , and at this point in time, moot. But I was offered full time hours at my company.

I was over the moon.

It’d been a really tough week racked with indecision, anxiety and full on fear for my future. I am on probation for a month, meaning, Ì`m still with the temp agency. That month is up riiiight about now and as far as I can tell, they’re going to keep me.

Many prayers are being answered, thanks to those who kept me in their thoughts.

And I am absolutely loving it there. It certainly isn’t what I want to be doing, but it’s truly the most amazing place I’ve ever worked in my life.

Don’t get me started, I won’t stop.

Ask me sometime if you’re interested in how amazing my workplace is. I’ll tell you this part now: The office shuts down at 1 on Fridays, phones go to the answering machine and we’re free to go home … or hang around and have a bbq, or play pool, or foozball, or darts, or Wii …. Yup. It pretty much rocks my socks!!

My Mobile Life

2010-08-19T11:30:00.008-03:00

Thought I'd share the stuff that I capture when I don't have my real cameras around.
(Bday is Feb 2) this was on a magnet at a store in South Centre Mall. There was a nicer version, but this best suited me at the moment .... the unemotional part is the most untrue - I cry at an-y-thing

Mar's new golf clubs, complete with golf visor - ain't she just the purdiest little thang?

Ahh,,, our noodle face. A late night involving questionable asian food. Long story that I will shorten to: I ran into Conrad one night downtown with a couple of his friends and we all ended up at an absolutely heinous after hours place (i found out much later, that they reuse their rice ... ) and Conrad was tied up on the other side of the table chatting to someone so his buddy and I made serious use of our time waiting for the other convo to wrap up. I thought we did well - it was really dark in the place. Noodles for hair, pineapples for eyes, carrot nose and snap pea for a mouth.

Snuggle time with Han the Man. Yes, thats a toque and yes it was June. Calgary is cold almost all year round. I wore a toque when I went for my walk the other night.

Date with Han the Man at church. He was squirmy so I took him to the cafe in the lobby and we had deep conversations ... about Twansfomous (Transformers)

Me and Iris (we stayed at Ray and Dees -I was housesitting)

So at Loblaws (Superstore) they were advertising for months "The Biggest BBQ in Canada", there was a semi involved, an ice cream van, tents, enthusiastic 20 year olds on the coolest summer job ever. They were giving away FREE sliders, ice cream, the newest, latest greatest sparkling juices. We were all so excited. "Don't bring lunch tomorrowwwwww" we were all told the day before this great event. Great anticipation was in the air on that rainy, blowy, cold, cold day as we eagerly watched from the 4th floor windows as the truck pulled in. "Terrible day for this BBQ" someone quipped. "HAHA, it doesn't matter, its free lunch" someone else replied with a guffaw. So, we all race downstairs (this part isn't exaggerated), stand in line (and its POURING rain, and collected water is bowing in the roof of the "obviously not made for Alberta summer tents" and spilling in one big gush onto unsuspecting guests. Please keep in mind the adverts for these sliders are enough to make you salivate, and there were three in the pictures (you always get three sliders, its just the way they're served). So we get to the front of the line and are passed ONE slider and told that the 'dressings' are over on the other table. Know what the condiments were? Ketchup and Mustard. Period. By now, the summer student who worked in my department and I were giggling uncontrollably. We could go back for seconds, but that meant we'd have to stand in line again ... So on to the ice cream truck we go ... I think they borrowed the ice creams scoops from the Keebler factory. More giggles and sideways glances to each other. So I'm going to outsmart them and ask for TWO flavours IN A CUP. HA! That'll get them and their chintzy little portions. I got two flavours as I'd asked, in a cup, as I'd asked but they were still elf sized scoops and the micro spoon they gave me hardly reached down the cup. Below is Kirsty's ChocoMint scoop. It was the office joke for the next week - especially in the cafeteria after as we're all ordering real size meals.

Upon Botox disccussions at Streetlight one night, the boys demonstrated how I'd look after a treatment (Its high on the list of things to do once I'm settled again - its not as expensive or invasive as you think)

Different Streetlight night - end of May. Look at my clothes. A toque, hoodie and rain coat. Ash wanted a pic as she was basking in American summer temps.

"My Other Ash" and her bday cake. That was one of the funnest nights of my life. I love my Calgary friends.

My old house. Such weird and unusual circumstances led me here and I am forever, forever greatful. Can you imagine 5 of us living there in complete harmony? So remember the firefighter story? I was at the far right side of that living room window when I could no longer hide from emergency personnel ambushing my entryway. And thats the big wicker (not as comfortable as you think) chair I sat in while I waited for (Maria bf) to come unlock the front door cuz I managed to lock myself out one cold November day) And I didn't know the neighbours so I couldn't go over to any of them and wait it out.

Me and the Stace. Her ready for a night out, me straight from work.

Such and awkward photo of me and Stephano (friend of Stace) Doesn't he have the sparkliest eyes? Me with unwanted bangs that were finally growing out and I didn't know quite what to do with them.

My beautiful city - taken from the Saddledome on a -30 night between periods of a hockey game.

Our section neighbour at a Hitmen game I went to with the Britt- we had to see this for alot of the game. And since its burned into our retinas, I thought I'd pay it forward. :-)

Lattes at a super cool place on 3rd Street SW, Calgary. Mine's the heart, Julie's is the flower. And obvs, we were order # 8.

Pic sent to me by a friend passing through good ol' Blues Mills. He had no idea I'd have this response, but I burst out crying!! See, I'm NOT unemotional.

There - a peek into my mobile life! ha

Second Chances

2010-08-11T11:06:00.002-03:00

(I'll try and make this quick, though I'm not good at telling stories the short way)
Bree told me a story last year about being in a parking lot of a mall and a homeless man approached her and asked her for money, and she ignored him and ran her errand. On her way out with her arms full of bags, the same man asked her the same question and she gave some sarcastic remark and went to her car, unloaded the bags and felt so terrible that she turned around to give him some cash.
But he was gone and she couldn't find him anywhere and that has haunted her since and has felt so guilty that she's been praying for a second chance to talk to this man.
So, about 8 months later, she was in the same mall parking lot and saw him again, dropped what she was doing (and this time, she was actually really busy) and went up to him and offered to buy him food at McDonalds. So she sat with him and chatted while he ate and got to know his story a little - isn't that so cool?
Sooo ... for some reason, that story really stuck with me and I've often thought of the joy she must've felt when she saw him again and was given another chance to help.
Which brings me to the second part of this:
I had spent the day with some friends at the rodeo on the last Saturday of Stampede, having lots of laughs, real-time fun and shall I say, fellowship? We were all meeting up at some restaurant downtown, but I was cold and wanted to change into warmer clothes, so on my way back, we were rushing (for no real reason actually) and walked past this bedraggled, young, sad looking man with a parka (it wasn't that cold), he was dirty with matted hair and such sad eyes. I glanced down at the cap he had on the sidewalk for change and wanted to stop, but judging by the speed of my counterparts walk, I thought it was best to keep on truckin'.
But instantly, and I mean that very exact moment, my heart broke - here I was rushing along to go eat overpriced food with people I didn't know very well, I kinda didn't want to be there as it'd been a long day (with people I had just met - I went with friends of a friend) and I was tired. When he made eye contact with him and I kept walking like I had something more important to do, I felt horrible.
I felt bad all night and looked for him on the way back but he was gone. So I followed Bree's lead and I prayed for a second chance to see this guy.
Bree and I went hiking a few weeks ago, and I told her my story.
We went downtown after (you should have seen us, we were the bedraggled ones!! a 4 hr hike we were in sweats and limping) and from the passenger seat, I see my friend and I yell "BREEEE, its him, its my guy! we gotta stop, we gotta stop" .
We were getting Wok Box anyway which was right around the corner from him, so I got my second chance to give this guy some food, with the very person who planted the second chance seed.
He name is Trevor, and he is beautiful, with gorgeous deep brown eyes, however empty. He was so ashamed to talk to us. We just went up to his bench and asked him if he was hungry, well, Bree did. She has a softer approach than I do, haha. I knelt down to talk to him (Watching so many Super Nanny episodes gave me that tip lol) So we gave him his food, asked him his name and wished him a good night and went on our merry way.
And merry it was, we're such nerds - we were totally giddy after that!

Speaking of second chances, I really feel that Bree is a bit of a second chance for me. I think its safe to say that without her, I'd be back in Nova Scotia .... and I truly need Calgary right now. I need to stay here and figure shiz out and get my act together (which is taking far longer than originally planned :-(

Just Sayin'

Peace Yo
L.

The Wedding

2010-08-08T18:22:00.009-03:00

Friday, August 6 my sweet friend Ashley married her equally wonderful husband (do you marry your husband? no ...? you marry your fiance) Anyway - heres the pikkers.

The Church

The Bridal Party (with the duet singers)

The Matron of Honor (sister of the bride)

The Bridesmaid (sister of the groom)

The Bridesmaid (friend since age 5 of the bridge)

The Bridesmaids cool beans tattoo

The Bridesmaid (friend since age 5 of the bride)

The Happy Couple (no pics of the groomsmen, they had vacated the table)

The Brides Parents

The Pastor and his Wife. (I heart them)

The Menu

The (moderation presentation of a) Caesar Salad

The Favors (candy covered almonds)

The First Dance (to which Dee leaned over to me as she was trying to get a pic with a disposable camera that was on the table and said "I wish that stupid camera guy would get out of my way .... LOL!!)

The Father Daughter Dance

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ab4VRWX8y1A

The Father Daughter Dance Song

The Sisters

The "Friends Since Age 5"

It was a beautiful day, funnest wedding party I'd been to in a really long time, lots of dancing, lots of laughs, hugs, compliments, baby holding, giggling at bad dancers, amazement at the "old people" keeping up with the young ones on the dance floor ... All around a super time.

Peace Out.
LeeLeeMac

This Ya Gotta See

2010-08-08T18:13:00.002-03:00

This amazing specimen of clothing belongs to a friend who excitedly texted me from Vancouver when she purchased it. I vaguely and flippantly said "oh, nice, can't wait to see it". It sat in her closet for about a month before I even remembered it again and it came out in the cashe of closet combining we did trying to figure out what I would wear to Ashley's wedding.

I still thought "well, I'll give it a try". Oh My Good-nass. It feels like magic on your body, it slips on and you half expect to look around a see a red carpet (instead you see the hairballs that have gathered on the floor since we last swept 6 hours ago (we're the two hairest girls we know, but both have dark hair and have to take equal blame) and flashing lights ... you honestly feel like a celebrity. I wanted to never take it off. Its too short for a) someone my age, and b) a wedding held in a Baptist Church but its definitely something ya gotta see. (so pardon the pose ... ;-)

Two Brunettes, Two Blonde Moments

2010-08-01T18:06:00.003-03:00

Blonde Moment #1 (in chronological order)
I work with a girl named Bonnie who purchased a really cool necklace that included a silver (metal) leaf (fern-ish), her birthstone in a drop-stone and her initial in lower case on a gold disc. (very delicate and pretty, but not the point).
She was washing her hands in the bathroom and leaned in closer to look at her necklace in the mirror and said to herself " hmm ... I thought I got a "b", not a "d".

Blonde Moment #2 (also includes a mirror)
I was editing pictures the other day, and in the process, got rid of the zit on my face (fooling the viewer into the illusion of dewy, young skin). As well, washing my hands at the sink (different sink), looked at my face and thought "oh, I thought I got rid of that".

I simultaneaously thought of Bonnie, and how stupid I was and burst out laughing.

Wouldn't it be great if we could Photoshop life?

Limos, Rodeos and Deep Fried Oreos

2010-07-20T11:07:00.011-03:00

Stampede in Calgary happens every July and is like a religion with a fanatic following. For months, its talked about, anticipated and planned. People fly in from all over Canada and the US for it (i.e. Sandra) and the locals drop what they're doing - dust off their cowboy hats, bring out their boots and wear all sorts of combinations of demin and plaid. Myself included - though I only wore plaid once. 10 days of free breakfasts all over the city that consist of pancakes, bacon, sausage and eggs, orange juice and coffee. You can just walk up and eat for free. Then theres the famous Rodeo/Chuckwagons and Grandstand show. I didn't make it to the latter two this year but the rodeo was amazing.

Snowbirds treated us to a show the first day of Stampede while the parade was on.
The Cowboys and Girls formed a horseshoe for the National Anthem

Crazy sights and sounds on the Stampede grounds

Heart attacks waiting to happen

The classic games (check out her biceps!) I'd just met her that day (she is a friend of a friend)Safe to say, I didn't stand close to her. Ever. Given my current bicep condition.

Stampede is also famous for their mini-donuts. (for good reason)

DEEP FRIED OREOS. What the heck ? you say?! It was like a party was happening in my mouth. Like a local radio dj said "Theres more grease in these than a carnie's hair".

Cutest little boy in full cowboy gear, complete with spurs on his boots!

On Sunday, Conrad had his 2nd annual Stampede Breakfast at his house:

The newly/nearlyweds with the newest nephew. (i want to squeeze all their cheeks!!)

So lucky to have such amazing people in my life. You all know Sandra, and the other girl is Jaime (a friend of Conrad's - great girl)

Me n' Dave chillin

Ashley and Conrad arguing; well, Ash telling him whats up about something and everytime she'd talk, he'd turn the blender on. We were dying laughing outside. I think I see a smirk on her face too.

Conrad and I trying to figure out why we weren't getting Blackberry Messenger messages from each other. Its hilarious. We look like we're posing but its a legit problem ... (solved, in case you were wondering)

This sweet little thing was with us and she's from PEI and said bay-ad and say-ad for bad and sad. Such a cutie, moved out here all by herself at 19.

Me n' San, it was so hot that day (one of 6 hot days in 2010!!) that my makeup was already melted off!

This guy was cutting in on C's dances with his girls! haha!!! Our attempts at country dancing - I love this pic for that reason!! He's literally telling the guy to scram! Looks like I'm saying "Yeah, what he said".

Ha! I love this of her!! (her friend made her earrings!!)

Boys acting silly

I heart her.

Soooo .... we couldn't find a cab and C decides to rent a limo. So we got a tour of the city? Ummm we live here, we don't need a tour. However, it was a fun thing to do and had to push aside my dislike of limos - haha.... somehow I managed!

The highroller and myself trying to act tough.

If you saw the movie The Hangover, you'll get this picture. This pager is from First Alliance babysitting service and Iris forgot it when she was here and I kept forgetting to bring it to church with me and it was in my handbag - so I posed with it on.

That was Stampede '10 - It was fun and it was awesome to share the experience with Sandra, but I'm glad its over because theres so much pressure to pack so much craziness into 10 days and well .... I'm not made of that stock. My quiet side came out and I retreated from alot of invitations, it was almost like sensory overload. But the city comes alive, everyone loves everyone else and its the event of the year here and I was glad to be a part of it.

Cheers,

Leanne

EWW

2010-07-03T19:56:00.003-03:00

Created by Oatmeal

Many, Many Pictures

2010-07-01T22:28:00.010-03:00

MISH MASH OF PICTURES - NO ORDER WHATSOEVER. SORRY - BLOGGERS NOT VERY USER FRIENDLY WITH PHOTO UPLOADING.

I went to the Nationals - horsejumping. So cool. I want a horse so bad.... ( i sound like i'm 12)

Backyard Sunday lunch at Ray and Dees with all the Matheson children and Joyce's kids and their kids. Such a great time. I was there early and had the priviledge of having a UNE (as deep talks are called by my Halifax friends - loosely translated from a "one on one" to the french version of "une on une" to a simple UNE) with Morris - we had such a deep talk for about 30 minutes - it was great!

Love love love this picture. The bride and groom (Dan and Caryn) with Dee and Dee's brother. They laughed so hard for so long - they were the loudest table in the room and it was a beautiful sound.

Surprise cake for Gerry's 60th - and his sisters made him (because his brothers are way too demure to do so) sit in Aunties walker. You can see him here literally asking "you want me to sit in Mom's walker?"

Yup - they do. So he did. Obedient little brother.

Marion, Mora, and Ruth. They all smile like this all the time. They are all this happy and real, its amazing to be around.

Owen chillin in Ray and Dees back yard (Joyce and Floyd's grandson)

1000 watt smiles.

The newlyweds making fun of the painting in their grandparents seniors complex. (pretending to be hiking)

Bella - sweet little girl of Matt and Sarah (Mora and Craigs daughter)

Morris and Ray goofing around

Dad conversing with Uncle Lloyd

The Matheson Clan.

As follows:L-R

Marion - lives in Toronto. Ruth married to Morris and lives in Seattle. David - lives in Chicago. Ray (we ALL know Ray). Gerry - married to Betty and lives in Edmonton. Mora - married to Craig and lives overseas. Joyce - married to Floyd and lives in Toronto.

Dang you double chin!!! (is this an age thing?? i've just noticed it!)

This is Darkise - after 12 years we see each other again - and she hasn't changed a bit! Love it!

Remember Banff last year? This is Mo who was part of the trio who made the trip. Bree is completely unaware that I'm taking a picture and is, at this point, asking herself "What the heck is Mo doing? She was just in the middle of a sentence."

Me and the gracious host.

The BBQ at Bree's didn't work, so we Foreman Grilled the sausages and cooked the burgs on the stove.

HAHA! This pic makes me both cringe in horror and burst out laughing. I look like I've been superimposed into the photo. I have put some weight on, but honest, not to this extent!! Isn't Uncle Lloyd precious?!

So in love with this kid.

Iris and Auntie.

Big Bro and Auntie.

Me and Auntie. She's the cutest little thing ever.

Handley and Auntie - after showing her how his Transformer worked. Tooo flippin' cute.

Ash and her fiance - Dave. He's awesome!!

Me n' Conrad. Somehow there is always a series of pictures of us trying to get a picture together. This is the in fact, the 'real pose'. Sad. :-)

Crazy Brit and I at Ash's surprise Bday party

Me n' ' the other Ash". Love that I know her!

Long Time, No See

2010-07-01T21:55:00.002-03:00

Between moving and not having internet yet, having nothing productive to say and just not having time - I've been neglectful to my blog and to you, my faithful followers. BAHAHA. I kid. I kid.

I will give a run-down of what is happening.

I signed a 6 month lease on a sweet little apartment in a really cool part of Calgary. Its bright and airy and newly reno'd with a brand new stuff. I'm finding little things like wall art (stick on quotes etc) to make it nice for my time there. Because in 6 months, I can't imagine still being in this situation, so I'm sending positive energy to the universe so hopefully positive energy will come back to me and I'll be on my way to bigger and better things .... (your prayers for this anticipated event would be very very appreciated ;-)

I started working at a super cool Electrical Engineering firm in the trendiest part of the city;I love it there. I'm working at the front desk (thats where all the office administration work is done) and work with really neat people. And the office closes at 1 on Fridays. Every Friday!

I saw someone steal a bike the other day. Dirtbag. The person who owned it couldn't catch him. And I was in flipflops and office clothes, otherwise I'd have loved to take out my aggression on a lowlife bike thief. I would've grabbed him from behind and clobbered him. THEN told him he needed to know Jesus! How's that for vigilante evangalism?? Oh! And I was standing outside of Starbucks with Bree who was in her EMT uniform and this customer comes to the door and tells Bree that its her responsibility because shes in a uniform to go after the guy. She told him she was ambulance, not police and he said it didn't matter, that she in a uniform. Lazy guy. He was in a lot lighter clothes than her, if he was so concerned, he could've done it himself! haha

I got to spend a wonderful weekend with my dad all to myself, on Fathers Day at that. Ray and Dee's son got married to a girl from SA and the reception for family and Calgarians was here and Dad happened to be here that weekend and got to meet all the Matheson cousins. Amazing family, amazing weekend.

Bree had a bbq with all the crew from our whitewater rafting trip. (plus a few, minus a few). We had a lot of laughs, good stories, crazy antics and over eating.

Barry and Iris and kiddos came for a visit, and it was as usual, action packed and crazy. We had a great time and it was wonderful to hang out with the kids and be foolish and to have a much overdue heart to heart with Iris.

My friend from Vancouver, Darkise, was in Calgary and we went for dinner at Montanas. She's met, married, pregnant, and will give birth all within 11 months of meeting her now husband. Ain't that CRAZY ???!?!? She's completely happy and is literally mesmerizing to look at. She glows and has the sweetest smile and is the very same person I was lucky enough to meet while living in Van. She was the nanny to people I worked with and since we both went to church, were outgoing and 19, the mom thought we'd be great friends so she hooked us up!! She was right!!

Thats about it for now. I'm going to put up pictures in another post. Kinda backwards, but so I am these days, so as Landon says, "Let's just go with it".

xo Peace yo xo

Reality Check

2010-05-29T00:34:00.002-03:00

So, as anyone who follows this blog knows, I've had a pretty harsh 1/2 year. I've come to terms with it recently and am just accepting that this is where I'm supposed to be right now. I hate it. But accept it. Is that combo even possible?
anyhoo ...
I was at Streetlight last night and one of the semi-regulars who is pretty outgoing, outspoken, has strong opinions on 9-11 and world leaders etc was there. Near the end of the night while he was once again waxing eloquent, he happened to mention that his mother was only 36. Now this kid is 6'3, had great clothes on, talking about finishing up some tickets for drilling - which wouldn't surprise me if it was the truth - he's highly intelligent.
I stopped him - put my hand on his arm as I often do when making a point - and asked him again how old his mother was followed by "how old are you???"
20 he said.
I was just staring up at him - up being the key word - I think my mouth was like a cod fish and I said to him and anyone else who would listen
"Oh my goodness, I am one year younger than your mother, you could be my kid" He continued on explaining his theory on life's cards we're dealt, I clearly was listening because I interrupted him with "I can hardly believe it, YOU COULD BE MY KID!!"
Dan, the biker dude who makes hysterically inappropriate remarks whenever he can, says appropriately enough this time "Do you feel old?"
The kid unfazed and a little annoyed that I was icing his game said "Yeah, she had me when she was 16", pats my back and says "but I thought you were 26, so you're doing ok." And without missing a beat, proceeds with his conversation.
I was torn between the sincerity of his comment and the dual reality that I AM old and that my situation isn't all that bad - I could be 35 with a 19 year old eating at a drop in center for street kids.

I'll take my life and its little bumps and bruises, thank you.

I Heart Mika

2010-05-04T21:35:00.001-03:00

This just makes me happy .... favorite part is 3:19. Makes me want to put my sneaks on and go for a good run!! Trippy video, may not be your scene, and in fact, I don't even know what the song is about, but I love it and it evokes positive in me.

Sunday = The SEED

2010-04-26T02:03:00.011-03:00

Finally, I take pictures. One year later. Can you even believe it? Its been almost a full year since I started volunteering here. Though I've missed a few weeks here and there, its been nearly 52 of them spent here, and where I've met my beautiful, God-given Bree.

Here it is! The Seed as seen from the street. Was it what you were expecting??
The first window is reception, and the last three are offices.

Reception: One of my lovely 7th Day Adventist volunteers. What a great group of people, always so happy and willing to do whatever needs doing. This is where the guests check in, and scan their card; also where they can't keep fish alive. Where so much of the drama and action happen; police and EMS arrive through here, guests voice their displeasure here, new guests wait their turn for in-take. I've had many heart to hearts here with (too) young women who have been turned away, or kept people company who've been kicked out and waiting for police to arrive. This is also where I leave exhausted every Sunday night at 10, either completely weary from a stressful shift, or completely energized (like last night) after a really positive and uplifting 5 hours.

Zone 2: Where searches are done. When the bus from downtown arrives and there are a lot of people on it, they are sent to 2nd check in, where they are given their mat number, and meal ticket. The line if often 30 people deep and they are 'randomly' picked for searches, random is relative, as sometimes the searches are quite un-random. If the person has a history of sneaking booze or drugs or weapons in, they know they'll be searched, but we do walk along the line and if there are suspicious smells, they are also questioned and have to empty their pockets and bags. We hear "Its my buddy's beer" or "I didn't put that in there" quite a bit.

Second Check-in. That window is an office where we make new cards and do in-takes. And guests in the line make faces and stare when you're in there. Some funny, some creepy, all out of boredom.

Me and Ryan being silly. We love each other like brother and sister. I'm really very lucky to know him, he's leaving us for a summer job at a camp and I'm very sad. The dynamics will be so very different without him; I feel very protected by him and when someone is giving me a hard time, all I do is radio him and the guest immediately apologies and does what I've asked three times already. Its a little bit like tattling, only a higher (and much more mature) level. :-)

Trunk Room: Cute 7th Day volunteer whom I've never met before and don't know his name. But he's in the trunk room. This is up the stairs from the main area and each guest is assigned a trunk that locks and volunteers have the key to open them (universal key, thank goodness) and can store thier personal belongings, like blankets, shower stuff, books etc since they can't leave anything on their mats during day because (the mats)are completely disinfected in the mornings. Plus, their stuff is at risk to be stolen if left around. Cameras do little to deter theft at the Seed. I've watched it with my own eyes, when they think noone is looking. So crazy. Also saw on camera (not in real life) a girl go over to her boyfriends mat (they have different sections, obviously) and stomp on his head. Craziest thing ever, it was dark since everyone was sleeping ... Not for long!!!

View of mat area from the Trunk Room. Can you see the office?(the Bridge)? We have a birds eye view of the action from there. (had to sneak pictures - guests spaz if they see a camera, you have to remember, theres a lot of mental illness and paraniod people and the reaction is quite negative. Volunteers, however, were more than willing!! )

Ok. don't laugh. I had to smudge out their faces and did a hack job .. My photog sisters will be embarassed for me) But this is the eating/main area. See them lined up for dinner already? Watching the hockey game, playing cards, chatting, and I must say they were pretty quick to point out a sticker that was on the back of my pants, much to my sheer embarassment as one of the guest was (sincerely) trying to help me remove the distraction. He apologized later for making me uncomfortable. And the door at the top of the stairs is the computer room.

Clothing Room: Guests can "shop" three times a week, once on Mon, Tues, or Wed and once again on Thurs, Fri or Sat. Sunday is a 'free' day.

Ken - staff who makes the world a brighter place. We were so silly together last night. Making us new cards with a gangster poses and a nickname. We must've been tired because we giggled all night like a bunch of fools. His sense of humor is rare and dry and its fun to see him tip-toe over the line he thinks he might be crossing with me.

Back mat area. The door on the left side of the picture is the storage room. I should've taken pictures of it. Stacks and stacks of milk crates of shampoos, soaps, razors, shaving cream. You name it, its there! Very cool.

Another angle of the back mat area. Those mattresses are from the Olympics, used by the athletes and will be given to guests who apply for, and meet the criteria for the "Rapid-Exit" program the Seed provides to give a hand up to those who are willing and able to work hard to get out of their current situation. I'd be jealous, but then I'd have to be homeless to get one of them and I'd rather sleep on a futon the rest of my life if thats the case.

The disabled lockers and the Blanket area. These lockers are for those who are unable to make it up the stairs to the Trunk Room, whether they've temporarily injured themselves or they are wheelchair bound. And blankets (locked safely away in the cabinet) are handed out to guest every three weeks, and not a minute earlier regardless of their story. I think I come across as being really gullible, cuz man alive, I get some doozies of stories. But this chick has been around enough to know the difference - so I pass it off to staff!! haha. This volunteer below- oh, I just can't say enough about my volunteers - this guy was brought to us by his buddy who is a Sunday regular and they're such a cool duo and bring a really neat element to Sunday nights. They missed the last two weeks because of school and it was truly a different place without them. I heart them. They are kids, literally, like can barely vote which is encouraging to know there are parents out there sending kids like this into the world, into our future.

Thats all folks! Hope you enjoyed your tour. Now you can get a feel for where I am each Sunday and though the pictures can't really give you any idea as to why I am so in love with it there, I hope it gives you a better picture of where I run around like a fool some nights, sit and chat with the regulars, give newbies a guided tour to make them feel a little bit more welcome and settled and get hassled by Ryan and Ken.

If you think about it, or when you do, can you shoot a little prayer up for the continued operations of this amazing place? Their (staff and managment) hearts are truly in the right place, their motives are pure and they are moving people off the street into affordable housing, and giving them the tools to survive the real world in spite of their past. I know I've been cranky and grumbly for the last 5 months, but each week, I am reminded of how lucky I am to be who I am. These guests have exhausted their resources,whether its family, friends, employment, brain cells, whatever. Some parents are frantic, some are here with their kids, some don't have a clue or a care that their son or daughter is here. For the life of me, I don't know why I've become so attached to this ministry, but I have and I ask for your prayers as the SEED continues to rely on all of us to survive and to be a safe place for those who have nowhere or noone to go to.

Didn't mean to get all deep and stuff ...

Thats it for me. For now. Love and Happy-ness.

Leanne

The Little Things That Make Up One's Week

2010-04-25T15:15:00.004-03:00

A random recap of my week:

Overheard at gym: (the conversation between trainer and obviously worried mom, is drinking and college age kids who booze it up) "Well, the first year I was 18......" (Don't know 'bout you, but I was only 18 for ONE year. I feel like I've been 25 for 10 years, but thats a different story.)

Maria got married off yesterday. She looked like a model coming up the aisle. What a gorgeous woman. I forgot my camera, cuz I'm disorganized and spazzy these days. The second day of 2010 that it rains is on her wedding day. It was 21 degrees all week and that rain turned into a blizzard!! I went to church after the reception and was bare legged and walked out of the service to snow blowing sideways!

A 14 year old kid was driving his family car on my street today and almost backed into me as I was driving past. Its not Blues Mills, man, you can't just drive around like that! Wheres your gravel pit?? Go practice there! Gwen, remember those days? I think I taught you how to drive a standard in Grandpas car and we got in trouble. Well, as much trouble you could get in with Grandpa and Grandma :-). I don't think we asked to take it was the reason we were reprimanded, not the fact that we probably blew the clutch out!

I started a temp to perm job on Wednesday for Loblaws (Superstore parent company). Its an Admin Assistant. I am greatful for the work. And I hate to add a 'but' to this, but I will since my blog is all about being real. BUT I don't want to be an Admin Assistant. I just don't. I've done it. I'm over it and want to move on. I am struggling with complacency / confidence / greatfulness / humility / frustration. / panic. The money is just ok. Its more than $0 so I'm greatful. It's a job in a market where work is harder than imagined to get, so I'm inclined to rest and be complacent, even though I want far more. I want more money so I can live a decent little life, I want more socialization, downtown working/living, I want , I want, I want. I want whatever this isn't. And I'm trying not to be proud, too proud to accept this is is my job which leads to high levels of frustration as the struggle continues day after day . I can't see an end to this crazyness and it makes me panic. And I don't know how to think or feel. I don't know if I'm being a spoiled brat or if I'm just a normal person who wants a higher level of living than this and am not going to stop til I get it ?? I don't get it. Anyway, thats enough grumbling out of me. Pastor last night in church said that grumbling is off the devil and its grouped among such sins as Adultery. Yikes! I'm in major trubs then! I've been very grumbly. Feel free to offer your opinion on this, I am seriously curious.

Our ABC party is postponed. Boo. Co-hosts neighbour is due to have a baby that weekend. So we may have to change venues all together! I'd rather anger a woman who is awake anyway because she's huge and swollen and crabby and whose going to forget any wrong doing two weeks later when she hasn't slept in three weeks and has rag-ing hormones and a new baby ... just sayin'. But you mothers out there can attest far better than I to that!

The snow is melting today and its gorgeous out. I'm assuming we'll have at least one more of these days of hearing the dripping of puddly snow off the eaves unto the deck and a resigned and almost apologetic "Welcome to Calgary" from the locals. When in reality, its not that far off to have snow in May and June anywhere in Canada ... I just keep thinking of those days where we can float down the bow in bikinis and all is right with my world.

I had another night out with Julie which always ends up in side splitting giggles and good conversation. She is a so much fun and relaxed and anything goes kinda gal and I love her. A guy from Pictou County showed up at our table to tell us that his table was boring and we looked far more interesting. So after the obligatory "you girls look so beautiful blah blah" he settled into a chair and after explaining his (very very cool) tattoos and that he has a girlfriend who he is madly in love with and answering our questions as to why he isn't marrying her then, she showed up. Seriously. She did. And as my luck would have it, Julie had gone to the washroom, and I was left alone at the table with him. So here I am, facing the entire room, leaned in, intently listening for several reasons: a) It was loud, b) I'm kinda deaf, c)I could hardly understand his accent, d) I was completely disinterested in what I couldn't hear him say, and was making a bigger effort to make him feel interesting. THATS when she showed up with a tap on the shoulder, a glance towards me and a quick, "Hi Babe", a flick of the hair, turn on the heel and she went with her girlfriends to get a drink. At that moment, the manager, who is a good friend of mine, came over to chat. Whew. Crisis averted. Julie shows up, I explain to her that GF is here and Pictou County Boy says, "Well, I should probably go talk to her." He looked a littel scared ... In unison, J and I agree thats the best idea he's had all night. I was safe though, I told him my name was Ruby!! Ha! GF would never find me!! His tattoo, though, let me tell you about it. He designed it himself and its a Nova Scotia flag (the middle part with that griffin-looking animal) and it looks like his arm was scratched by a big claw, and underneath his skin is the NS flag. And the other arm is the same concept but with the Canada flag. Its so cool. I love tattoos though, can't wait to get one and love when they are unique and self-thought. Then J and I went to check out a new place downtown and ran into my ABC party co-host, with his MBA friends who were at a boxing event. The night was so much fun - it ended with copius amounts of Chinese food, how can it not be fun??

I think thats all. It was a good week, relatively speaking. I can't wait to find out whats going to happen on June 14th when Ray and Dee get back from SA ... where I'm going to live, etc. Part of me is excited for the adventure (because what other choice do I have but to go with the flow, really??) and the other part is just exhausted and wants to be stable and settled and secure!

Peace, Love and Happines ~ Til next time

Leanne

Odd Apology We Can All Learn From

2010-04-23T00:37:00.003-03:00

The F word is used twice during this ... but its pretty powerful. I'm not saying all Christians are like this, as I know some that are quite the opposite; but listen to this well written 'confession', we can all learn a little something from it.

Again, theres swearing so don't watch it around your kids.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EieFdXy_HwM

Peace, Love and Happiness Y'all

Monday Blues Buster

2010-04-19T15:49:00.002-03:00

So cute! Would love to meet the marketing team behind these ads.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJqnitjqpuM

This one's hilarious!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lEXZ2hfD3bU

A.... B.... C.... Easier than 123

2010-04-12T22:20:00.003-03:00

To get out of the winter blues we all experience despite a nicer than normal winter here in Calgary, I am co-hosting a party.

I've been aching to have a theme party for a while now. I have friends with big houses, but roommates, I have other friends with big houses, but buying and moving to other houses .... so the search continued.

Until now. I have found a willing participant to open his home, new patio furniture and back yard to a number of invited guests to partake in a themed party. We pondered the possibilities ... would we do Mexican? White Trash Superhero? White trash? Make-your-own-superhero?

The theme decided on, you ask? Open your mind when I say "an ABC party".

Already Been Chewed? comes the question and quizzal expression. Activity Based Costing? American Blimp Corporation??? An Adversity Builds Charactor party??

Nah, none of the above. Its an "Anything But Clothes Party". Sounds racy and dirty?? Nah! Clothes are mandatory, but they can't be clothes. You can dress in anything else but actual clothes.

I went to the Dollar Store today and got a shower curtain and anti-slip things for the tub. And, of course, duct tape! Duct tape will be the strap for my dress and I'm doubling up the curtain so its not see-through and away I go. I can't wait for May 1st!!! Sending out the evites as soon as co-host inputs his email addresses.

So awesome to have a friend who will willingly follow through on my whimiscal and spontaneous ideas. He's away in Palm Springs, so planning this is kind of a challenge, but its only a party - its not like we're solving world hunger or anything ....

Peazing Out ..... for now.

Off to the gym to make sure the shower curtain sticks to my muscles and not my fat ....

I'm just sayin'

LLM

Alberta April Showers

2010-04-08T20:59:00.001-03:00

An hour ago, I walked in the house in a short sleeved top .... Welcome to Calgary!

House-Sitter, Critter-Sitter

2010-04-01T18:52:00.004-03:00

I housesat for a week for friends of mine. Childhood friends who've recently moved to Calgary. Otherwise .... I'd had said no.

I was "mom" to a chocolate lab, a black cat, 10 gold fish and 2 ....

are you ready for this .... ?

2 guinea pigs.

yup. you heard me right. guinea pigs.

I was so flippin' nervous when I got there. Their gross little beady eyes looking up at me, in their little cage making those horrific noises that sounds like mice.

The first time I had to feed them was traumatic. I must say. I was shaking a little. And I was completely FREAKED out. I had to change their water which was in a tube on the outside of the cage and had a spout that poked into the inside of the cage.

And - of course, the little metal thing that held the tube fell out and I had to fiddle with it to hook it back into the rungs in the cage. Took about a year, it felt like.

And the whole time, their little noses were poking around and I was literally, whimpering and shaking.

They didn't have to be fed for a few days because there was still food in the trough. But the morning I had to, I was so nervous because I had to actually put my hand in the cage and again their noses poking around my hand ...

They were in the front room, so I didn't have to see them much, but the very essence of them kept me creeped right out and I could hear them at night.

I'm a freakshow. But I was very proud of my accomplishments (not barfing, not letting them starve, not having a nervous breakdown) though still strongly holding a phobia to furry, fast things. (please see long-ago post titled, I believe "At least it wasn't a rat")

I was gone for 7 days, and was happy to see my own house and eat my own food. They had lots of good food and I ate lots of that good food. I don't have that kind of eats in my house because ... well, I eat that kind of stuff which goes against my cellulites religion!

So cheers to overcoming the impossible (just kidding) and cheers to sleeping in my own bed and to rib night tonight (speaking of cellulite).

My friend Stacey and her bf are hosting a rib, margarita and hottub night at his house. Should be fun. Should be interesting. They're all Italian. It'll make me miss Gord and Mo. And make me wish I had two stomachs. The ribs have been marinating for two days.

Peace yo!

This is Why I Do It

2010-03-24T01:05:00.004-03:00

(imagine from www.weheartit.com)

Another story from the Seed; as I talk about little else! Last spring I started volunteering, there was a young guy, really shy, and embarassed to be there . I didn't get to know him very well, as I was equally as shy and rarely interacted with the guests. But before I knew it, he was gone. Then before I knew it, he was back. Shortly after, gone again. He's one of the guys who would come to First Alliance with Travis, Martha and I. He was quite sick with internal organ issues.
Driving home from there a few weeks ago, Ryan and I stopped at a Husky gas station and there he was ! This kid! Working inside. We were so happy to see him, so we said a big hello etc.
Last week, I really needed gas for the car and thought I had brought $20 with me (I don't bring $$ or purse to the Seed, as theres no need). But I hadn't, I'd brought $10 and bought supper at Tim Hortons on my way, leaving $6.00. In the course of the chaos of the 5 hours I was there, I'd forgotten again that I didn't have much cash. So I pull up to the same Husky station, run inside to pay beforehand and after greeting him, ( I can't say his name, its against the rules )I reach in my pocket, whip out the paper money inside and say "I'd like $10 gas please". I look down and its a $5 bill. I giggle at my stupidity, Ryan raises the bar and laughs out loud.

Long story short: Former Guest says "put the $10 in your car, its on me".
I protested as did Ryan and Former Guest said "please let me, you guys were good to me when I needed it, the least I can do it buy you your gas".

He's still totally shy and doesn't appear excited when he sees us. But I'm over the top sometimes, so maybe he's scared.

But the moral the story is this:

When the guy who asks me for socks because the ones I gave him the first two times weren't good enough, or when I ask the guest to not sit on the stairs of the (inside office called the bridge) because its not allowed, seeing if theres an emergency, and we come rushing out, he's going to be run over by 350lb Ryan; and he responds with sneer telling me I'm 'only a volunteer' ...... the little guy at the Husky making his own way in the world now after a stint at the bottom, makes me forget all the mundane and routine that comes with the shine wearing off your new interest; and makes me thank God He's put me in this place and that somehow, somewhere I'm making a difference.

And reminds me to keep the faith and keep prayin' !

xo
Lea

I've Temporarily Moved

2010-03-10T12:19:00.002-04:00

I've discovered in perusing my old posts that they are often heavy and deep
and unnecessary. It was an online timeline, journal, record of my topsy turvy life, but unnecessary much of the time.
So I've switched gears with a whole new blog.
You can find a more whimsical me at www.leeleemac.wordpress.com .
I promise not to bury you with my philisophical ramblings and deep, angst posts. This one is more poetic and random. Well, random is how I operate, but its a happier blog.
And until my life gets cheerier and easier, I'll stick with my new blog.
Dang it!
Just when I finally settled on a pretty background that matched!

Enjoy.

Are You Beach-Ready?

2010-02-24T01:02:00.002-04:00

Screw the gym! I'll get abs the easy way!

Anatomy of a Seed Shift

2010-02-22T01:55:00.003-04:00

I arrive. Organize my team. Go to the Bridge (the office encased in glass) and start my report.

Do my rounds to say hello to everyone at their volunteer stations and see how they're doing, get them any supplies they need etc. Bring them Crave cupcakes or supper, and chitchat.

I give a tour to the kitchen group, who've never been there before. I answer questions I've never heard before and show them the cool stuff that I love so much about the Seed.

Go back to the Bridge chat with staff, see which cute volunteers would be a good match for them. I had them convinced that it was my new calling to be the Seed volunteer Cupid. It is divine intervention, I argue.

I answer inquires from guests about my week, my work and listen to theirs. I get analyzed by a guest who figures me to be 'quite the rebel' and when he gets out of there, he'll take me for a ride on his Harley.

I get a blanket for a gentleman who "is only going to be there for the night" and we discover we're both Aquarians, so we talk about the virtues of being abstract and whimsical and thinking outside the box. He talking more than me.

I go to the front desk where a gentleman who is ripped on crack is yelling at staff that there are undercover cops in the shelter and he needs a safe phone to call the police. This poor soul, each week I see him, and am very leary of him and his silent stare, hunched gait and unstable demeanor. He is actually one of a few guests that I am literally afraid of. And tonight proved my instincts to be right.

The cops show up to take him away and first ask him what the problem is. To which his reply is incoherent and something about guns and SWAT teams. The cops tell him that they have to take him , he asks if they have somewhere to put him. The (cops) ask him if he was welcome at the DI (Drop In center downtown) to which his reply is "um, I don't know, what if I go peacefully, can I go peacefully with you?". The cop's answer is a firm and gentle "yes, you can come peacefully, you'll have to come peacefully." This poor guy, with a history of mental health issues and a crack cocaine addiction has two trench coats on, replacing the grey tweed one he's worn since I've been there (last May) and they are both done up, and tucked into his pants with the grey tweed sash securing it. His hair is everywhere despite just having showered, and his eyes are wild and empty. I thank God for my health and social situation.

I eat my dinner - Turkey a la King on Basmati rice with salad, a jellied salad and homemade carrot cake. Pretty yummy. Great kitchen group there tonight. Pius X church (?) Beautiful people.

I go back to the Bridge - finish my reports up.

Clean up is at 830. There are big windows in the wall seperating the kitchen/common area from the mats. When clean up comes, theres a mass exodus of guests to the other side of the glass where many of them stand and observe the clean-up crew, of which they are not a part of. So tonight I walked along the windowed wall, the side where the action was being watched from and said in a sing-songy voice "This isn't a spectators sport boys, why don't you grab a rag and help out". Which leads to the Team Lead coming up to me later saying "oh man, this is stupid, but did you call **** a 'boy'?" I told him what I just told you and he said "oh, **** told me you'd called him boy, which is racist". My reaction? Well, what race is he and how the heck is the word 'boy' racist??? (like, get real people, we can't say BOY now? ) Anyway, 350 lb, 6'5 Ryan tells Tim (team lead) to go tell **** the situation and if he doesn't like it, he can leave the facility.

So, of course, I'm called racist. It happens all the time to me. Its so dumb.

I say good night to the amazing staff and a few of the guests I've connected with, drive Ryan home, get caught behind a train (beside?), sit for 20 minutes and get caught up on all the news and giggle at silly stories.

It was a perfectly well rounded Seed night. Just enough calm, just enough front desk/police action and perfect amount of happy.

Peace and Love Y'all

LeeLeeM

Bring it on 35! I Don't Even Give a Care!

2010-02-07T23:40:00.007-04:00

Groundhog Day in pop culture is a day where regardless of any other news/wars/earthquakes/celebrity breakup-hookup-scandal-lovechild or other A-Listers accomplishments, its a rodent makes the front pages news.
Every February 2nd.
Will he see his shadow?
Did he see his shadow? Is there any repreive from our crazy, cold, Canadian winter?? Its all folklore, but its fun.
Its also my birthday. (every year - please cue amazingly un-unfunny comment that is equated to 'what day is it today?. Tuesday. All day")
February 2nd. 1975. A month early. 6lbs, 8oz. 8:00 am. Sydney, Nova Scotia. St. Rita's Hospital. Dr. Somebody ( i forget). Third child. Second daughter. Baby sister.
And every year, my Grandmie would ask me if I'd seen my shadow that morning. And this is the first year since she passed away that I remembered and it made me really sad.
And every year, I'd have some sort of party - a sleepover some years, which grew more popular as more babies entered our family. I'd get to pick what was for supper that night, which was always curry chicken. (now I kinda hate curry). And I'd get to wear my gift to school that day, always opening a present in the morning. On years I didn't particularly care about guests or much frou frou, we'd just have cake with grandparents and siblings around the big pine table.
Every year, its "my" new years resolution time. Just the non-conformist in me, I guess.
And every year in the past 5, its gotten harder to face this day. As the good memories of my childhood birthdays fade, and the harsh reality that is mid-thirties sets in, I just want the day to pass quietly and quickly.
So noone at the office, 'cept for my cube neighbour, Jen and another co-worker knew, and the latter took me out for lunch, while Jen. Oh. Dear. Jen.
Seriously, one of the sweetest girls I've ever met in my 'HOLE life. Everyday I realize how much nicer, sweeter, calmer, sincere, guileless I could and should be by just being around her. BUT she told the creepy guy who sits in the cube behind me. ( I am getting goosebumps reliving this ) who proceeded to email me at the end of the day asking me for lunch to 'mark the occasion'. *shiver down spine*. I was picturing his John Malkovic grin as he was probably sitting in his cube watching me read this email, hand frozen on mouse, swallowing hard as my mouth now resembled a giant cotton ball. I diplomatically wrote back bemoaning the state of my completely packed calendar for the next three lifetimes, "but I'd let him know". Don't be hatin' on me. One thing I've learned in life is trust your intuition .... and if you really want to give me a hard time about this judgement, I'll fill you in on a little secret .... my intuition is always right. Always.
Regardless, the day passed without the general population knowing and Julie, or JD, took me for sushi and spa night. It was glorious and amazing and we didn't want to leave. My toe nails are 'money green' and my hair was at its finest after a hottub and massage. Weren't we 'dishes' leaving there? Totally zen , hair looking like Barbara Streisand ran into an electric fence in the rain, and sleepy looking. Not just looking, but sleepy.
Then Maria, of course, came through in a big way - with a gorgeous little number for my bare wrist.

And this amazeballs scarf.

And wittle Ashwee painted this gorgeous picture for me. I love (to the tenth power) it.

The Mini Iris is from Dee. At church on Sunday, it was the Harvest Brunch (1st Sun of each month) and had my table decorated and a cake and a very public Happy Birthday song. (insert red face)
This is also from Ashley, who knows my love for the Office. And the wine cork too. A friend of Sarah's (Uriah's sister) made it. Super cute. *Side note* I'm an awful gift giver, I've somehow lost my touch of finding the perfect card and gift, so instead of sending something half-ass, I send nothing - and quite frankly, feel bad taking presents seeing I'm the worst in the history of all man-kind.

And to top off the week, I retreated, ran, hid, fled, escaped to the amazing countryside of Millarville. (Where I went horseback riding last May). I had this whole space to myself.
Truly tranquil.

Looking West. I wish everyone could experience these mountains.

At the edge of the Rockies.

This outdoor rink is right below her house and this is the only sound I heard all weekend.

I should clarify who 'her' is. A friend of Ray and Dee's owns this house, mansion, really, about 35 mins outside Calgary and she lends it out to people who want to come and totally relax. She holds retreats sometimes too. Its a concrete house with a huge wrap-around deck. I'm definitely going back there in the summer.

That's it for now, folks. The adventure never ends though, so stayed tuned for the never-ending instabilty that governs my life. Heres a thought: You know when you're doing any kind of exercise at the gym, the more unstable you, the harder your abs are working to, well, stabilize the rest of you? Well, I wonder if thats true about life. The more unstable your situation is, does that mean that you're "life abs", your, let's say spiritual (in the non religious way) core is stronger? Right now, its just making me a basket case, but in the long run .... ?

Really going this time ...

LeeLeeMac - til next post, while you wait with bated breath. :-)

Dream a Little Dream

2010-01-31T16:46:00.003-04:00

Ok. You've heard me talk about it.
Africa.
Orphanages.
Mission work.
Filling this void in my soul.
Listening to God.
Serving.
Africa.

The reason I moved out to AB in the first place was to work, makes rock trucks of money, go to Africa for a month - help build a school, church, whatever, and settle back into life in Halifax.

Well. We all know how that turned out. Not as I'd planned - but my plans don't matter. I'm glad and greatful and humbled that MY ideas were wrong. Its been through my involvement with First Alliance, Maria, and the people who haved lived in this house, that I've really kept persuing mission work. I am surrounded by Africa. Anyone who I've given a skype tour of my house to can attest to that! My place is completely decorated in African masks, animals, animal prints, cool African chairs. I am surrounded by love for missions on all sides. I've met so many people, random and not - that've gone on trips and are so excited for my plans.

I will try and keep this short.

In several conversations with Maria over the past 10 months about my desire to go overseas, she's placed me in contact with a good friend of hers who works for Watoto ministry. I've emailed her with a million questions and received a response yesterday. It makes me almost weep with both anticipation and fear and realization that this dream of mine has started to move. Truly, honestly started to move. I was getting so discouraged with setbacks, both financially and personally that I was beginning to wonder if I was ever going to realize this possibility. So with renewed hope and resiliant faith, I'm sharing with you and will continue to update on the process.

I will need prayer. If you want to know where I need the most guidance, I will tell you: If you feel so inclined to shoot some prayer rockets up - I'm really looking to have my heart opened and prepared for the "right" orphanage. There are several with very different types of living conditions. Some are in a city, which are busy and westernized, some are really far from emenities. (true African culture). I need to be shown where I will be utilized the most and where I will benefit both spiritually and personally. I realize there will be alot of personal growth and I need to stop 'romantizing' it and thinking, as usual, that its going to be all sunshine and lollipops. I know my heart is in the right place, my prayer is that it remains that way, as its easy to get caught up in the cool factor of going over there.

I also need to be given the wisdom (?), discipline (!!) to save money. I'm a shopoholic and spontaneous flight booker, and need to keep a rein on that kind of thing. I hope to have enough money to fly over, live for three months, come back and be able to unwind for a month, and not worry about cash flow. Impossible on the onset, but I've seen crazier miracles unfold! I am considering sponsorship, sending out prayer letters to church members, having a fundraiser of sorts - more for the awareness, (as well as the money, of course). But would like to able to set this goal and make it happen myself.

There. I said it. I dreamed a dream out loud.

If you want to check out Watoto ministry go to: www.watato.com .

(The anticipated time frame for this is Aug/Sept 2010)

ANDDDD, WE'RE BACK ON THE AIR

2010-01-27T00:04:00.006-04:00

I will point form my month for you, as I’ve been blazy (blog lazy)

In chronological order this has been my January. You ready? Its not that exciting. Its been good, but not edge of your seat, nail biting, heart-racing drama. Here goes:

· Spent NYE with Ray, who went to bed at 9, Dee and Britters. Dee set me up on a Christian online dating site. Completely against my will. She is a freight train that when determined, its in your best interest to stay clear and far out of the way. B and I laughed so hard that night. Completely mocking the system and Dee telling us to be serious about it, because its my year to get a husband. Apparently. Like the Chinese Zodiac , but this doesn’t involve rats or rabbits, just husbands. But good luck finding one on there. Obviously, I've deactivated it. Obviously.

· Spent an extremely valuable day with Britt and Bree. Makes me realize how much God loves me, seeing the amazing women He’s put in my life. Honestly don’t know what I’d do without them.

· Totally threw my back out. Completely. I walked like an old lady for three weeks.

HERES MY BRIT ON OUR BREE AMBUSH WITH SOME CLASSY ED HARDY WINE. (please don't waste your time, money, tastebuds - but the bottle - so cool)

· Spent 6 hrs at a mall with a 20 year old woman. Got a winter coat at Old Navy for $20. 6 hours! 6! Even for me, thats too much.

· Got a one day gig at an oil and gas co, which led to another gig at a non oil and gas co. This gig is more permanent, however, I am waiting on said industry to get back on its feet so I can some stability in my life with a real job.

· Worked at the bar again. Such fun. I love drunk people. They are so lovey and sweet.They hug me and tip me and compliment me and thank me. And the ones who aren’t – have to face the burly bouncers whose main focus of the night is to protect me.

· Went shopping again with a geologist who wants to be more feminine, as she works up North with only men. She likes my style so I was ‘dragged’ out (jk) and was fashion consultant to someone who listened. Its like I could mould her .... But not for 6 hrs. She's not THAT fem yet.

· Got on the scale and it read 19.8 lbs more it did in July. So, I lost 10 of those that crept up on me somewhere in the past 6 months.

· Calgary experienced a Chinook. Heaven on Earth. You have no idea.

· Spent a few hours each day of one weekend with Britters and her adorable nephews, ages 5 and 1 and her gorgeous amazing niece Ruby age 3. So much work. So much fun. Kids are smart. Smarter than me I bet.

· Got back into the gym, sort of - but not really.

· I know where all the pretty people in Calgary go after work. World Health Club 7th Ave. I will go back.

ME N' STACE ROCKIN' COAT CHECK. MAKING MAD MONEY.
Learned to love Skype. Got to see my sis, bro in law and their kiddos for the first time in a year.

PHOTO - MO AND MAURA

VID - WATCH MAURA TELL A STORY

LANDY PANTS. AND THATS ABOUT IT. PANTS.

ADZ. SO GROWN UP - JUST BACK FROM BASKETBALL PRACTICE.

· Mom and Dad came to visit. Long overdue and just what I needed to get me out of my funk.

MY BIRTHDAY JEANS. PARDON MY BUM, BUT AREN'T THE JEANS GREAT?? I COULDN'T DECIDE BETWEEN 4 PAIRS, SO WE TOOK PHOTOS TO MAKE OUR DECISION. MOM'S HONEST. BRUTALLY. I LOVE IT.

MOM'S 'NEWLY PURCHASED SUNDAY GO TO MEETIN' OUTFIT. TOTALLY GORGEOUS.

TOOK DAD AND MOM TO FARM. THATS OUR MEAT AND CHEESE APPY WITH DIJON MUSTARD, SOMETHING CHUTNEY AND DRIED CHERRIES. AMMMMAZEBALLS.

· I was set up on a blind date. And by set up, I mean forced by his parents and Ray/Dee. Well it was half blind – I knew what he looked like as many photos of him were mysteriously forwarded to my inbox. Poor guy - had no idea what he was walking into. Went to a Flames game. His season tickets. Great seats. Great company. (in case you were wondering). First NHL game, first blind date (besides the time Liana tricked me into a dinner for 7, when strangely, 3 of them bailed at the last minute and, strangely, we were seated at a romantic table for 4 - but we don't talk about that :-)

* BIG DREAMY SIGH - I HEART JEROME.

ANNNNND.... A FIGHT. ITS A GOODER - AS THEY SAY OUT HERE. WHO AM I KIDDING? I SAY IT ALL THE TIME!

And thats January until now. Which is almost over. Which means my birthday is next. Which means I’m 35.

Later !

Lea

A tear (pronounced tier, not tare) escaped

2010-01-12T23:18:00.002-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hg-3ZJcbfJY

Theres a tv show called Glee. I don't know what its about other than singing, as I am pop-culturely challenged this past year or so. But I was checking out YouTube vids tonight and its actually really good singing.

So as YouTube has it, it gives you all kinds of other 'related' vids to watch. I happened to click on this one and was crying laughing by the end. Not even the end. The middle. It reminded me so much of us in the summer the first year we had that big honkin' video camera and we made movies and recorded whatever we could.

And these boys definitely reminded me of Mark, Stephen, and Timothy. Except I wondered periodically if these boys were high and I wondered frequently how embarassed they're going to be in 10 years.

Enjoy. This made my day!

Peace, Love and Happiness y'all!

LeeLeeMac

Good Riddance 2009

2009-12-31T21:02:00.005-04:00

AN OPEN LETTER TO 2009

Dear 2009:

Don't take it personally, but you weren't really that kind to me and I'm prettt-y happy you're leaving tonight. You brought me greatness in all kinds of ways; wonderful experiences, lots of laughs and great new adventures. But you also brought me a whole lotta crap.

You tended to be tempermental and brought unpredicable winds of uncertainty and fear. You surprised me sometimes with little sunbursts of greatness and unimaginable wonder. Your good and bad, on paper, equal each other, but in reality, the good far outweighed the terrible. I've learned how to live on faith, how to lean into my family for support, and how to be vulnerable without being judged. Because of you, I've had to dig deep, be honest to myself and be real and be okay with my brokenness.

I guess I should thank you for showing the lows, of which I'd never thought I'd come out of, so I could know the real highs when they arrived and realize I deserved them.

I should also thank you for the absolute crap you threw my way, the days my world was crashing down around me, so I could fully appreciate that I was truly and fully loved while my family and new friends rallied around me.

I will also, with a full heart, thank you for the Seed. It has changed my world and has introduced me to the most sincere, authentic people I have ever met. It has shown me a side of life I hope to never know personally and that I had no idea existed to this extent. And that somewhere, somehow I can make a difference, be hope for someone besides wallowing in my own imperfect life.

Can you do me a favor, and pass the message along to Twenty -Ten that I'd prefer a quieter ride this time? I'd like more good this year, less of the drama, chaos and theatrics ?? While I appreciate your efforts to keep things interesting, can we just turn down the volume a notch this year? My request is less talk, more action. You know, show me the goods, don't just dangle them in front of me? Can you let me prove to myself that I'm not a complete flake who can't keep a job or man? I don't necessarily care what others think, but I'd like the chance for me, myself, Leanne to feel like I'm not a failure. I'm doing my part, can you please do yours?? I think you owe it to me.

I'm just sayin' !

A Couple of Forgotten Posts

2009-12-31T20:34:00.002-04:00

A few odds n' sods here:

Tara Jo Deagle and I were cruising around getting lost one day when we came upon Center Street Church. "Ohhhhhh .... I've heard so much about it, lets go take a look" was her response.
So we did. And got a personalized tour (pronounced "two-er" here in Alberta, not "toor" (like four, like its spelled, like its said if you're a Maritimer)

So here she is in front of the water fountain which is also the humidifer for the entire building.

And this is it from its driveway. Its pretty massive. Its bigger than FAC, but we have way more charactor and personality ..... to our building that is. :-) Greg Granau is a pastor there. You'll see him in the photos below.

This Gerry and his daughter Marilee. So cool to meet her. She's itty bitty, totally personable and has such a kind heart. Which encapsulates both parents quite neatly.

If you click on the picture, it will enlarge it (just remember though when you come back to the blog, to hit the 'back arrow' and not the X) and you'll see the labels on everyone.

Sorry for the crap pictures ... my abilities as well as my camera make a really shoddy combination for enjoyable photos.

So there you have it. I'm missing a couple of ppl there, but it gives you a snapshot of the names you hear from me.

Hows that for random?? Centre Street and the Mathesons !

Cheers!

It Was Christmas ...

2009-12-28T22:52:00.005-04:00

Howdy Folks!

MyCalgary Christmas came and went. Thank goodness. Theres not much to report thats for sure, Cmas was a quiet one, unconventional to say the least. I'm not a huge fan of the holiday anyway, so I'm pretty happy to be moving forward into a new year, new adventures and all the good that comes from that.

Heres how it went down:

Christmas Eve:

Hurried, scurried and scrambled to get ready in time for the Christmas Eve service at church. I looked so cute in my cool black dress, it has a bit of a turtle neck, long sleeved, thin material, empire waist and a bit of a bubble skirt to it. Its lined with some slippery material, not nylon, but similar. Super dark black tights and the second coolest shoes I own. Suede, 4 inch heel, ankle boot with a bit of a bow on the side, and open toe. Lovely to look at, very trendy and very in a the moment. Key word is moment here. But not so lovely to walk in. I wore HUUUGE pearls, and looked very festive and ready for a church Christmas-y outing.

Of course I was late. My 'always-on-time'-ness has taken a hit here in Calgary. Did I mention theres 18 traffic lights between my house and church? Anyway, I rush in, take my coat off and proceed to walk towards the auditorium and the glances coincided with the very real feeling of my dress (did I mention it was on the short side?) inching up, well more accurately, 1/8 of an inch-ing up my leg with each step. I was mortified. Standing in the dressing room a couple of months ago hadn't yeilded these results. I knew it was shorter than normal but PERFECTLY respectable for a Christmas service. Honestly, it was. I am too old to wear scandalous things anymore and this dress passed the test. The dressing room test. Not the walking in front of 1.5 thousand people at a local conservative church. (and while I think sometimes some added spice is necessary, they didn't need the whole spice rack) So, I detoured to the ladies room, more glances received (probably now my imagination), quietly composed myself, reassured said self that this wasn't intentional and people would soon forget this ever happened.
I made my way to the service now, didn't even look around for my group, just asked an usher where "Ray's parents" were sitting. Thankfully, they sit at the back and my trek to my seat was a short one. Dee, laughing at me, threw her scarf over my lap and Auntie didn't even notice nor would she have cared. And THATs another reason I love them. I can show up half dressed and they're just happy to see me!

Afterwards we went to Ray and Dees for lots of amazing food. I substituted my 4 inch amazeballs shoes for green fuzzy socks.(the floor was cold) There was a mishmash of people there. I met David, the youngest of the Matheson siblings, who is so nice and quiet and sweet. He's a musician and lyricist, he writes songs, plays guitar and sings.

I came home and Maria and I exchanged presents, and we, along with Sarah and April watched The Pursuit of Happyness.

Christmas morning was so weird. I slept in, got up and made coffee, quickly realizing that I didn't have any breakfast food. So Maltesers it was. Did laundry, watched tv, called a smattering of siblings. Then to Ray and Dees' again for dinner. And again ate too much food. She makes this crazy Pistashio/Banana/Pecan salad that I just devour. I have such a sweet tooth.

Then I went to the Seed, had to take Dee's car. I was rocking the Ford Taurus pretty good since mine was e-m-p-t-y ... and didn't have time or fuel enough to drive around looking for an open station. The Seed was interesting. Lots of people were chatty and sharing. One guy who doesn't ever talk. Period. came up to me and we talked about Christmas' he had as a kid etc. I got to talk to 'favorites' and strangely, I got really, really sad and had to leave. I didn't cry or anything, I just felt deflated, got really lethargic (may have been the copious amounts of food consumed prior to) and said my goodbyes and drove the Taurus home again. It was nice to be there to hang out with the Seed guests though.

Back to Dee's for pumpkin pie. Totally worth the drive back. Totally.

Boxing Day I lounged ... I'm sensing a trend here ... went to the gym .... I'm not sensing a trend here ... :-) .... went to church ... went to work at the bar I take some shifts at at 9 til 3 and made some good coin whilst belly laughing almost the entire time. I literally enjoyed myself.

Yesterday was Seed day with , are you ready for this ...? two volunteers! Needless to say, not much got done.

Today was wonderful. I was invited to a family brunch at the Mathesons - and got to meet so many new cousins. What an absolutely wonderful family. I finally met Danny, (Ray and Dees' son) and we totally clicked. He's a pastor at a small church in Kitsilano Beach in Vancouver. His gf was with him, she's a sweet girl from South Africa (lovin' her accent). Ummm ... I won't detail everyone I met, but they are all super sweet and funny. It was neat to see Ray and Dee around one of their own kids, it was such a great day with them. And the 'great-grand-kids are super cute too. 5, 7, 9 and 12. The girl is 12 and I was talking to her trying to remember what I liked to do when I was that age and the reality set in that that was way to long ago for me to be relatable, so we just talked about school. But the boys were hil-ar-i-ous !!!!!!! DID NOT know that is what conversations kids that age had. The 9 year old was really intelligent and explaining the ratings of the Star Wars movies he had and the other two were punching him and interrupting with their little lisps. The 7 year old said "fart", got the standard pat on the head from close by, not even glancing down, parent and the standard "watch the language, please". They showed me tricks with their mittens and we talked about "Iggy" (Jerome Iginla) and how his penalty minutes were high, but so was his scoring and when he got in a fight, he made sure it was a good one. etc.

Safe to say, I was highly amused, entertained and was a little bit smarter leaving that conversation. Oh. And a little bit happy I don't have children. You have to tell them not to say 'fart'? I forgot about the whole keeping kids properly mannered and all that jazz, I thought they were just cute and said funny things and everyone laughed. I also forgot that the parents had to do so much more than dress them and brush their hair and teeth and go to Aunt Dee's for brunch. Theres stuff involved - like rearing them to be respectable citizens of society and guiding them to be mature and well-adjusted adults. I don't think I'm ready for that responsiblity anyway, so maybe its best I'm not pro-creating at this particular time.

And thats all. I met Julie in Kensington for coffee and shopping. Her shopping of course , not me. And now I'm home safe and quiet for the evening making plans for 2010. I have lots of them and only 12 months to accomplish them so I better get crackin' !!

Peace Yo. Peace on Earth. You know, smoke the Peace Pipe - whatever your peace is. Peace Out.

xo

LL

One Last Loud Talker Post

2009-12-15T13:12:00.004-04:00

I find this so interesting ....I wish with all my heart that I wasn't aware that this world exists at 10 am ... I'd rather be working. But this guy is so intriguing.

I got here earlier today to avoid him for a minute, but he was here, exhibiting all aforementioned characteristics. Slow walking, deliberate glances around the room as he makes his way toward the magazine section, stands with hands in his pockets, rocking on his heels while he scans the rack for the most suitable reading for his intellect level and class ranking. He bends at the waist to peer closer to his desired selection to ensure he's making the right decision, all the while keeping a close eye on the door inspecting all patrons as they enter. He narrows his search down to 3 and brings the titles that met his criteria back to his highly visible table.

Today I am unaware of any conversation he's having as I've actually remembered to bring my earbuds and am rocking out to Matt Maher, BUT he's sitting, (I forgot to mention yesterday, he takes up all the space he can, crossing his legs so his feet are in the way when people walk by so he has to make a big effort to move out of their way and gets annoyed when they have to come back the same way from the bathroom and he has to make the same movement to allow them access again) and got up and rearranged the chairs around his table to accomodate what one would assume to be more guests. Sure enough, two beautiful women show up, seemingly willing to join him with fancy, foamy drinks in hand and proceed to talk. Amongst THEMSELVES.

HE IS IGNORING THEM, STILL READING HIS NON-PURCHASED MAGAZINE!!

With his head so casually cocked to the side, he'll occassionally grin and nod, and every once in a while a pronounced yawn will escape, while exercising his right to indifference and showing these women whose controlling this situation ....

Now he's animatedly involved in the dialogue and said used periodicals are placed on the table to show these lucky, lucky women that they are now worthy of his attention.

Its like watching a Charlie Chaplin movie. But in vibrant color and without the jerky movements. Just the jerk. (just joking - I'm sure he's a great guy? - is that what I'm supposed to say?)

So I have to go now and stop people watching and start job-watching.

xo
L.

Creepy Loud Talker Strikes Again ....

2009-12-14T13:55:00.003-04:00

So remember the guy I made a FaceBook status about - The Starbucks guy? Loudtalker, Longtalker, bragging about how much he tips at a restaurant? Critizing the 22 year old for making the wrong investments? How he was having trouble finding a good girl to date? He's a total know-it-all and the entire cafe knew his levels and areas of expertise ..... Welllll, anyway, I'm back at Star and sure enough, dude walks in, looks around, finds the only free chair .....
RIGHT ACROSS THE TABLE FROM ME.
"Is this seat taken?" he politely asks.
"Ummmm, er, uh, no, go ahead", I mumble while avoiding eye contact and quelling the quickly rising and rapidly approaching panic.
He's being very quiet, just reading "Beautiful Kitchen" type magaines, smiling and laughing at various text messages he's receiving.
BUT
The funny part of this story is:
Theres a guy at a small table beside us, quietly working away on his comp, gets a call, answers it, and is having a professional conversation, super quiet and seems like a normal, decent business man.
And 'having-a-quiet-day-loud-talker-know-it-all' keeps looking over at him and sighing, then looks at me with pursed lips and rolls his eyes.
Its pretty funny.

And this pic - totally unrelated. Its just me and my attached at the hip friend. And I am truly (heres that 'b' word I think is so cheesy) blessed to have her. I often forget how important it is to have friends who hold you accountable to your stupidness. We are each other's 'accountability police'. Its easy when you move away from your best friends/sisters who will make sure you aren't doing dumb things and making silly decisions that are self centered and do what you think is best for just you ... I love that these great women come into my life and are having a very profound and positive impact on me.

We took tickets and directed people in the general direction of their seats. Our small group prepared and served desserts, and ushered. JD and I were commissioned as far from the kitchen as possible.
Apparently, we brought "a sense of joy and humor" to the ticket takin' job. Yay Team Awesome!

Gotta run,
battery is dying and I have work to do .....

xo

Lee

omgoodnesssss .... He's on the phone now saying "yeah, well that means I'll have to call someone, and I don't call people, they call me. Just like I don't buy drinks at the bar" ..... its girls who buy me the drinks just to keep me around . He's totally flirting with a girl and then says to her "Well, I better go a meet my girlfriend for lunch".

Ughhhhh ..... And this is part of the dating pool I am now stuck with having to choose from ....

Yeah.

I. AM. SO. LUCKY.

More Blogs on Operation Backpack-ish Stuff

2009-12-12T18:14:00.002-04:00

Below is link to photographer who was present last night

http://rwphotocalgary.blogspot.com/

Below is link to Ryan(Kyle ;-)'s blog (this is his initiative, bringing it to Calgary from Vancouver)
http://www.streetlighttrackscalgary.blogspot.com/