Yesterday was wing night here. I bought a family pack and the bag said for 2 - 3 people. Well it's a good thing I was eating alone because there was only 7 in the bag. Who do they think they're feeding, a bird. Oh so funny, I am Bird. I just wrote that without thinking. I never cease to amaze myself. Oh it's a happy little world I live in. Here are pictures of the family pack. Family of ONE...
OK for some reason I cannot post pictures, but believe me I have them. I will continue my story and post the pictures when I can. Moving right along, last night with my 7 measly, little wings that had skin on like a 150 year old person, was all pruned, I made rice, cucumbers and water. Now because I can't add the pictures and this time I cannot blame Allen for doing something to my laptop, you have to visualize it. Let me help you: round green placemat with a fork and knife, glass of water on the right side, cucumbers at 8:00, wings at 12:00 and rice at 4:00. Are you getting it. OK, so this is the picture that I have on my camera, and you will see it when I can post it but maybe one of those items might have gotten switched for the picture. I do have to keep a certain level of discreetness. Must look that word up... no, not a word, I will use subtleness. Continuing on, I must be subtle in my pictures because you never know who is reading it. By the way, my stats say that 6028 people have read my blog and I don't even count among them. Oh you poor people, you must have no lives and nothing better to do but it makes me happy.
Tonight I needed bread so off I go to the Carrefour Express (old 8 à 8) and I got a few things. I forgot my bag so I told the nice lady who likes Canadians and wants to go to Canada some day, that I needed to buy a bag. She said, oh madame, vous pouvez en prendre un, you can take one. I said well I have to pay and she said, ah non, pas de soucis. I did not beg, I did not cry. I think that I'm her favorite customer, although André and Christi go there also. Wonder if they ever got a free bag.
Today was a very busy day. Lots of information to retain. I was suppose to go see a concert pianist with a friend but it was so foggy and I was so tired so we didn't go. It was about an hour away from Arras so we would have been quite late. I like classical piano. That is what I learned when I was taking lessons in my much younger days. Now Becky, yes you, my sister-in-law. She is a beautiful pianist. She studied at McGill and she is awesome. Now someone else that plays the piano beautifully are Johannes and Mirjam. Such talent. Speaking of talent, I have never in my life heard someone play the flute like Corinne. Her fingers are magic. I could sit and listen to her for hours. You can see the passion when she plays. I think everyone that has seen her and heard her, would agree. She is still my inspiration when I go through tough times.
I am planning a trip to Germany soon. I am looking forward to it. I'm hoping that Werner will bring me on the Autobahn. I can still remember the first time on it, sitting in the back with my jacket over my eyes, peeking a little bit and he was doing 190. When we got home, I kissed the ground and said, I thought you would go 200. The next time, he did. Claire and Berthe drove on the Autobahn. They did great. I prayed. God heard me.
Well I am heading upstairs to bed now. Tomorrow is another big day. As I am writing this, I can feel joy in my heart, the kind that you get when you get good news and the peacefulness it brings to you. A sense of satisfaction, gratefulness and it's times like this that I tell myself, embrass what you have now and be thankful for every second that you have.
Thank you all for being one of the 6028 readers. Pictures of my balanced meal on next post.
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
Monday, 23 January 2012
New neighbors
I have new neighbors downstairs. I haven't seen them yet but I sure hear their music. I can put a glass of water on the floor and the water vibrates. I'm hoping to meet them so I can be invited to their party if they have one. I'll need a new plan though. I used the bottle of wine trick so I need to come up with a different approach. My other neighbors from across are so brave. They leave their boots and shoes at the door outside. Like I'm going to do that. There could be spiders in them in the morning. Oh just the thought gives me the creeps. I wonder if I can go for therapy. Claire went for therapy because she was afraid of cats. Although cats are cuter. I can't see myself trying to like spiders. Oh I can't even say the word.
If you remember a few blogs ago, I put a picture of the spider and my weapon. Well it took me about 30 minutes just to post that picture on and I have not gone back to that blog so if anyone left comments, sorry I can't read them.
I went to see a movie last night. It was called Ma première fois, My First Time. Don't go see it, she dies. Did I ruin it for you. Oh well, too bad. The popcorn was good though. I take half salt and half sugar, oh sooooooo good. Here are a few pictures of when I was walking to the theatre. Sorry I'm not in the pictures. I was alone, again. See, I had a table for two and I could sit on either side. How lucky am I. Oh don't pity me, I'm in France and you're not. ha ha.
Don't know what all the cars are doing there. Must have been something going on Sunday night and I didn't get the memo. This is at La Place des Héros. The market is there on Wednesday and Saturday.
This is walking from La Place des héros to La Grande Place. Business is booming outside at the terrace.
Me and my imaginary friend. I'm taking the picture so that's why you don't see me. So cozy.
This is La Grande Place. Another parking that is full and I don't know where the people are. It is a very nice place. Arras itself if nice. I like it even on Sunday when they roll up the sidewalks and it's like a ghost town. It's still nice.
My calendar is getting full. Lise and Gordon are coming 1st of March, then in April I will have Allen, Isabelle, Christiane and Marie-Christine till 1st week of May. Full house. No more room at the Inn. A new session has started today so that will keep me very busy. Nice group of kids, great opportunity for them. I hope they like me. I'm going to play mean this time.
Well another day over. I'm still enjoying every minute here. Wish you could all be here with me. Oh Sunday at the movies, I went to the bathroom and the lady that met Diane when she was here and that was asking me all sorts of questions was in the bathroom too. She spotted me and said, oh la fille du Canada. Votre soeur est-elle revenue. Oh the Canadian lady. Has your sister been back. I said ah no,
not yet. Diane did quite an impression on her. She said, so are you alone and what movie are you going to see. Didn't take me long to reply, oh no, I'm here with 4 other people and we're not sure what we are seeing. They are waiting for me. I thought I was going to be stuck with her. Go away, you scare me. Find your own friends. I have enough of my imaginary ones. I need a bodyguard.
Big day tomorrow. I'm showing off Beaumont-Hamel to the new guides. So excited. I love both sites. They each have their own story. How lucky am I. So better hit the sack and be in tip top shape tomorrow. I'll be in some kind of shape, not sure it will be tip top though.
Night and be safe.
If you remember a few blogs ago, I put a picture of the spider and my weapon. Well it took me about 30 minutes just to post that picture on and I have not gone back to that blog so if anyone left comments, sorry I can't read them.
I went to see a movie last night. It was called Ma première fois, My First Time. Don't go see it, she dies. Did I ruin it for you. Oh well, too bad. The popcorn was good though. I take half salt and half sugar, oh sooooooo good. Here are a few pictures of when I was walking to the theatre. Sorry I'm not in the pictures. I was alone, again. See, I had a table for two and I could sit on either side. How lucky am I. Oh don't pity me, I'm in France and you're not. ha ha.
Don't know what all the cars are doing there. Must have been something going on Sunday night and I didn't get the memo. This is at La Place des Héros. The market is there on Wednesday and Saturday.
See, no snow. It is actually very nice. Can be chilly. Is this how you spell chilly. Looks good. Yes people are just running to get seats outside.
Me and my imaginary friend. I'm taking the picture so that's why you don't see me. So cozy.
My calendar is getting full. Lise and Gordon are coming 1st of March, then in April I will have Allen, Isabelle, Christiane and Marie-Christine till 1st week of May. Full house. No more room at the Inn. A new session has started today so that will keep me very busy. Nice group of kids, great opportunity for them. I hope they like me. I'm going to play mean this time.
Well another day over. I'm still enjoying every minute here. Wish you could all be here with me. Oh Sunday at the movies, I went to the bathroom and the lady that met Diane when she was here and that was asking me all sorts of questions was in the bathroom too. She spotted me and said, oh la fille du Canada. Votre soeur est-elle revenue. Oh the Canadian lady. Has your sister been back. I said ah no,
not yet. Diane did quite an impression on her. She said, so are you alone and what movie are you going to see. Didn't take me long to reply, oh no, I'm here with 4 other people and we're not sure what we are seeing. They are waiting for me. I thought I was going to be stuck with her. Go away, you scare me. Find your own friends. I have enough of my imaginary ones. I need a bodyguard.
Big day tomorrow. I'm showing off Beaumont-Hamel to the new guides. So excited. I love both sites. They each have their own story. How lucky am I. So better hit the sack and be in tip top shape tomorrow. I'll be in some kind of shape, not sure it will be tip top though.
Night and be safe.
Thursday, 19 January 2012
Busy week
Gee what a week. I got through Monday and it was all good. We had a little get-together in the afternoon and I feel like I haven't stopped since. Tuesday was a hectic day because I forgot my glasses at home and only noticed when I was at work. At first I didn't think it was going to be a big deal but honestly, it was pretty bad. I had to print my emails in 32 font just to try to read them and have Karine and Sophie read them. I tried to call 888 for my messages and I didn't know how many 8's I had so Arlene had to help me. Plus, when I don't have my glasses, I can't hear so I was deaf too. To make matters worse, I had another cold sore. What's with that. So I leave work and stopped at the pharmacy to get something for my lip. Well that was an experience by itself. They don't call it cold sore or feu sauvage here in France. She couldn't understand what I wanted so I had to show her my duck lip. Oh she said, bouton de fièvre, OK whatever, I want some. Then I tried to pay with my card and I couldn't see the numbers for my code. My arms weren't long enough for me to see the numbers so I paid cash. Good thing I had some on me. Then I needed gas so I stopped at Total. Then just when I was about to start pumping I thought, Oh no, here you need to enter your code PLUS the mileage. That was too many numbers for me without glasses so I got back in the car, drove home and got my glasses and went back. I didn't think that I was this dependent on my specs. Good thing I only need them to read. Imagine if I needed them to drive. Then I went out for supper with friends which was great.
Last night, we went for Chinese food and then bowling. So much food. There were 6 of us and we could have done with dinner for 3. So we get up to leave and the lady said, no no, I bring you hot faceclothes for your hands. Oh now that felt good. So we try to leave again and she said no no, I bring you Saki. I don't know how to spell it but I sure know how to drink it. Potent stuff and the little shot glass had a picture of...well I can't tell you but I want to get some and bring them back to Canada. I must bring Allen there because he doesn't drink so I can have mine plus his. So for 13.50 euros we each had a starter plate of something. I had shrimps, then your entrée, then your main meal, then desert and Saki. I'm going back for sure. We then went bowling but it's with the big balls and are they ever big. The ones where you put your fingers in the balls. I'm not used to playing with big balls. Oh the damage I could do with this blog talking about balls but I won't. Never know who reads this but I would love to. André had the highest score. I hate him. Only kidding André.
Tonight I decided that I would stay in and relax. Already have my pj's on and going to open that bag of chips that's calling me and and have a glass of Jean's diet coke (I bet you all thought that I was going to say wine....fooled you) and watch all the games shows I can. Ah the french game shows here are hilarious. I don't understand the rules but they are funny.
No pictures tonight. I don't have any new ones. I will this week-end. So time for me to go and open those chips. I keep mine in the fridge and they are nice and cold. Don't knock it until you try it. They are good.
Keep warm. I hear it's pretty cold and talk to you soon. Ontario Louise and Bob, how are you. Corinne, thanks for the chat on Monday night. It was great. I needed it.
Last night, we went for Chinese food and then bowling. So much food. There were 6 of us and we could have done with dinner for 3. So we get up to leave and the lady said, no no, I bring you hot faceclothes for your hands. Oh now that felt good. So we try to leave again and she said no no, I bring you Saki. I don't know how to spell it but I sure know how to drink it. Potent stuff and the little shot glass had a picture of...well I can't tell you but I want to get some and bring them back to Canada. I must bring Allen there because he doesn't drink so I can have mine plus his. So for 13.50 euros we each had a starter plate of something. I had shrimps, then your entrée, then your main meal, then desert and Saki. I'm going back for sure. We then went bowling but it's with the big balls and are they ever big. The ones where you put your fingers in the balls. I'm not used to playing with big balls. Oh the damage I could do with this blog talking about balls but I won't. Never know who reads this but I would love to. André had the highest score. I hate him. Only kidding André.
Tonight I decided that I would stay in and relax. Already have my pj's on and going to open that bag of chips that's calling me and and have a glass of Jean's diet coke (I bet you all thought that I was going to say wine....fooled you) and watch all the games shows I can. Ah the french game shows here are hilarious. I don't understand the rules but they are funny.
No pictures tonight. I don't have any new ones. I will this week-end. So time for me to go and open those chips. I keep mine in the fridge and they are nice and cold. Don't knock it until you try it. They are good.
Keep warm. I hear it's pretty cold and talk to you soon. Ontario Louise and Bob, how are you. Corinne, thanks for the chat on Monday night. It was great. I needed it.
Sunday, 15 January 2012
I think of her everyday
I'm starting off with a picture I took Friday morning at 8:30 am. It was still a bit dark and I was on my way to work. Beautiful and peaceful.
Friday I cried. I cried from Bucquoy to Archicourt. I guess it was just one of those days. I could see Monday arriving and it was just hard. 5 years tomorrow that Maman is gone. When you're young, you never think that your mother will die. She's your mother. She's going to be around for ever. I remember when she turned 42 and we had a cake and Philippe, Diane and I sang her Happy Birthday. I was crying. She asked why and I said because you're old and in my head, old people died. In those days, anyone over 25 was old. Actually in today's world, anyone over 35 is old, that is why I can go into the movies in Charlottetown for Seniors. They don't dare ask my age. For them, I'm old and for me, it's cheap. So who's the winner.....ME.
The week-end went by. Friday I dropped off a few things to the guides and I stayed for awhile. We sat on the floor around the coffee table, we ate cheese, bread and crackers and chatted. It was nice to be around them and then I came home to Zina. Saturday I went to the Soldes (sales) and bought a few things, then Christi, André, Jess, Laura and I went to the movies. I had seen it Les Intouchables and it was still sold out. It's been here since November. We were in the first row. There's nothing like being close. We couldn't all sit together so Laura, Jess and I sat together and my two saviors sat elsewhere. André said he could hear me laugh.
Today I finally dismembered my counter. Well I don't know if you call it dismembered, dismantled, oh well, I took it apart. That counter was sure heavy. I dropped it on its side and it dented the floor. Like it put a hole in the floor. I must cover it with a rug. They'll never know, then I'll leave the carpet here. Ah this head is always thinking. I think it's a very good plan. So after 36 screws, 8 huge bolts (and that is just on the top part) I finally got it off. Then I attacked the leg with 14 screws and 2 huge bolts. Yes I counted them just in case any of my friends reading this come over and count them to see if I'm telling the truth. It is now against the wall and I'm not moving it until the landlord comes. It's too heavy.
This is the hole in the floor that I made when I dropped the counter. Good think my foot wasn't there because I would have had to go to Emergency. For real this time. Oh wouldn't I love (not really) to see them and say I'M BACK. No it wouldn't be funny. We're suppose to go bowling this week and I wouldn't be able to go.
Zina left today. I think she missed her maman and papa. I suppose Christi and André will have her next. Zina's mom liked the pictures of put on my blog. Christi, do you have pictures of Zina.....the competition is on.
So all in all, I found the week-end long and I was lonely and I was missing my mother very much. Some people say that their mother are their best friend. For me, my mother was never my best friend, she was over and beyond a best friend. She was my inspiration. She was a part of my heart and now it's gone and it aches. I realized as I grew older that it doesn't matter how old you are or how old your mother is, you are never ready. They get the title of mother and they go through life worrying about us and encouraging us and we need them. If you still have your mother, look at her and think of all the things she did for you and still does. You are lucky, you are blessed. Embrace it.
So I choose to have a good day tomorrow and remember her for you she was. She was a great woman and someone you always wanted in your life. A very good listener and very good mother. She was very proud of her three kids (me more, but we already went through that) and she would always say, I am so lucky to have 3 good children, you have never had a fight among you and you love each other so much. That was the richness that we had in our home by being her children. And this is true, Diane, Philippe and I have never, ever fought. (of course they would know I would win) but we have never fought. She showed us values, respect and she said always help someone. It will make you feel good. I must have missed that memo. Only kidding. So Maman tomorrow I will be there and I will be happy. I know that you will be with me and that you are proud of me.
So goodnight everyone and have a good evening. Bed time for me.
Friday I cried. I cried from Bucquoy to Archicourt. I guess it was just one of those days. I could see Monday arriving and it was just hard. 5 years tomorrow that Maman is gone. When you're young, you never think that your mother will die. She's your mother. She's going to be around for ever. I remember when she turned 42 and we had a cake and Philippe, Diane and I sang her Happy Birthday. I was crying. She asked why and I said because you're old and in my head, old people died. In those days, anyone over 25 was old. Actually in today's world, anyone over 35 is old, that is why I can go into the movies in Charlottetown for Seniors. They don't dare ask my age. For them, I'm old and for me, it's cheap. So who's the winner.....ME.
The week-end went by. Friday I dropped off a few things to the guides and I stayed for awhile. We sat on the floor around the coffee table, we ate cheese, bread and crackers and chatted. It was nice to be around them and then I came home to Zina. Saturday I went to the Soldes (sales) and bought a few things, then Christi, André, Jess, Laura and I went to the movies. I had seen it Les Intouchables and it was still sold out. It's been here since November. We were in the first row. There's nothing like being close. We couldn't all sit together so Laura, Jess and I sat together and my two saviors sat elsewhere. André said he could hear me laugh.
Today I finally dismembered my counter. Well I don't know if you call it dismembered, dismantled, oh well, I took it apart. That counter was sure heavy. I dropped it on its side and it dented the floor. Like it put a hole in the floor. I must cover it with a rug. They'll never know, then I'll leave the carpet here. Ah this head is always thinking. I think it's a very good plan. So after 36 screws, 8 huge bolts (and that is just on the top part) I finally got it off. Then I attacked the leg with 14 screws and 2 huge bolts. Yes I counted them just in case any of my friends reading this come over and count them to see if I'm telling the truth. It is now against the wall and I'm not moving it until the landlord comes. It's too heavy.
Zina left today. I think she missed her maman and papa. I suppose Christi and André will have her next. Zina's mom liked the pictures of put on my blog. Christi, do you have pictures of Zina.....the competition is on.
So all in all, I found the week-end long and I was lonely and I was missing my mother very much. Some people say that their mother are their best friend. For me, my mother was never my best friend, she was over and beyond a best friend. She was my inspiration. She was a part of my heart and now it's gone and it aches. I realized as I grew older that it doesn't matter how old you are or how old your mother is, you are never ready. They get the title of mother and they go through life worrying about us and encouraging us and we need them. If you still have your mother, look at her and think of all the things she did for you and still does. You are lucky, you are blessed. Embrace it.
So I choose to have a good day tomorrow and remember her for you she was. She was a great woman and someone you always wanted in your life. A very good listener and very good mother. She was very proud of her three kids (me more, but we already went through that) and she would always say, I am so lucky to have 3 good children, you have never had a fight among you and you love each other so much. That was the richness that we had in our home by being her children. And this is true, Diane, Philippe and I have never, ever fought. (of course they would know I would win) but we have never fought. She showed us values, respect and she said always help someone. It will make you feel good. I must have missed that memo. Only kidding. So Maman tomorrow I will be there and I will be happy. I know that you will be with me and that you are proud of me.
So goodnight everyone and have a good evening. Bed time for me.
Thursday, 12 January 2012
Zina and me
Well while Zina'a parents are gone skiing in the Alps, Zina and I are having fun. She is quite entertaining. She found this ribbon and I put it around her tail and she goes around and around. She picks it up with her teeth and walks with it and can't figure out why the ribbon is still following her. I thought I'd skip town with her before her owners come back but the new guides are arriving and I have to be here. Here is the princess and may I add that she likes to sleep on the right side of the bed so I have to move to Allen's side and she takes half the bed but she is precious.
She loves to sleep on my high chairs under the counter. It's her favorite spot now. She is telling me, really, you're going to wear that tonight. Really... It's 10 degrees out and you're going to wear your parka. Actually it's André that says that. Only kidding.
No, I didn't jump on the counter. It was just an figment of your imagination, and you only see from one eye. I was here the whole time.
I just couldn't figure out where my roll of toilet paper went. Nobody was hurt during this process. She walked around with this for about 3 minutes then it fell off.
Side view.
Please Louise, enough with the pictures. I know I'm beautiful and all but give it a rest.
This morning going to work, I accomplished something new. Now this was my first time but what a rush. I passed two vehicles. OK the fact that the first one was a tractor and was going 10 km still does not take away from me passing. What a proud moment. So proud that later on along the road, I passed another vehicle. This time it was a horse and buggy but a buggy is a vehicle. It has wheels. And another thing, I now drive with the radio on. This is only since last Thursday. Multitasking. Driving and listening. How my mother would be proud.
Today I met Australians, 13 of them and they all know Crocodile Dundee. I miss the guides. There I was sitting at the Accueil, going through the notes they wrote in the book during their session here and I felt lonely. Ah, how attached I get. Oh well, they're gone, too bad. Time for a new group. Only kidding guides, I really do miss you ALOT. I have to do my own dishes now. ha ha.
Ah I almost had to call in sick tomorrow because there was a spider under my desk and we couldn't find it (OK when I say WE, it's really not me. I was standing up on a chair). There was no way that I was going in tomorrow until it was found and killed. Arlene found it. I owe her one.
Well since I got back, I haven't gone to bed early. My intentions were good but there was always something that kept me from turning off the light before midnight. But tonight, no excuse. I'll be upstairs by 9:30. So tomorrow is Friday the 13th and I won 2 little things in the cake so apparently that means that I will have money so I am buying a LOTO.
So goodnight everyone. Gladys, thank you for your email. Mirjam, I was so excited to talk to you and Claudia, I will call you soon. Another nice day in Arras. Life is good. Miss you all but I have you in my heart.
She loves to sleep on my high chairs under the counter. It's her favorite spot now. She is telling me, really, you're going to wear that tonight. Really... It's 10 degrees out and you're going to wear your parka. Actually it's André that says that. Only kidding.
No, I didn't jump on the counter. It was just an figment of your imagination, and you only see from one eye. I was here the whole time.
I just couldn't figure out where my roll of toilet paper went. Nobody was hurt during this process. She walked around with this for about 3 minutes then it fell off.
Side view.
Please Louise, enough with the pictures. I know I'm beautiful and all but give it a rest.
This morning going to work, I accomplished something new. Now this was my first time but what a rush. I passed two vehicles. OK the fact that the first one was a tractor and was going 10 km still does not take away from me passing. What a proud moment. So proud that later on along the road, I passed another vehicle. This time it was a horse and buggy but a buggy is a vehicle. It has wheels. And another thing, I now drive with the radio on. This is only since last Thursday. Multitasking. Driving and listening. How my mother would be proud.
Today I met Australians, 13 of them and they all know Crocodile Dundee. I miss the guides. There I was sitting at the Accueil, going through the notes they wrote in the book during their session here and I felt lonely. Ah, how attached I get. Oh well, they're gone, too bad. Time for a new group. Only kidding guides, I really do miss you ALOT. I have to do my own dishes now. ha ha.
Ah I almost had to call in sick tomorrow because there was a spider under my desk and we couldn't find it (OK when I say WE, it's really not me. I was standing up on a chair). There was no way that I was going in tomorrow until it was found and killed. Arlene found it. I owe her one.
Well since I got back, I haven't gone to bed early. My intentions were good but there was always something that kept me from turning off the light before midnight. But tonight, no excuse. I'll be upstairs by 9:30. So tomorrow is Friday the 13th and I won 2 little things in the cake so apparently that means that I will have money so I am buying a LOTO.
So goodnight everyone. Gladys, thank you for your email. Mirjam, I was so excited to talk to you and Claudia, I will call you soon. Another nice day in Arras. Life is good. Miss you all but I have you in my heart.
Sunday, 8 January 2012
Staying alive....
I'm the queen. Was there ever any doubt. January 6 is the Epiphany - Fête des rois. Here in France it is celebrated with Gâteau des rois (King's cake). So Friday at work, André brought 2 cakes and the tradition is, is that there is a little bean hidden in the cake. Why they call it a bean, I'm not sure but if your piece of cake (OK, it's like an apple pie) has that little bean, it means that you are the King and you put it in your wallet and you'll never be short of money. Guess who one. ME and it wasn't fixed either. I'm just glad that I didn't bite on it because it's made of ceramic. I also got to wear the crown all day. Here are pictures.
I know some of you are going to ask, was the crown in the cake, NO. It comes with the cake.
Friday night, I joined André, Christi, Louise and Bob for supper at this duck place. No way I was eating duck. Ducks belong in the water not on a plate. Louise and I had steak but the rest had duck. Poor thing. His mother probably misses her little ducks. Bob did convince me to try a piece of his duck and low and behold, I liked it. Next time I'm having duck. Too bad mama duck but it's not like I know you or anything.
Then we went to Karaoke. Now that was entertaining. The place was full but this little old man, quite old, was sitting alone and was wanting me to join him. I didn't want to break his heart. At his age, it could be dangerous, so I sat down. Once I told him I was Canadian and that my friends were Canadians, he shook my hand and was all excited. Anyway, I didn't sit down long, they found us a table and the fun began. It was this guy's birthday (31 yrs - I know this because I asked) and everyone at their table had wigs on and all wore Thongs over their jeans. Shinny, silver and gold thongs. We were looking for songs that we knew. Most of them were french and I didn't know them. Then Bob decides that he has to use the bathroom so there he goes. At the same time, birthday boy and his 2 other friends get up and start dancing. Bob comes out and they take him and he starts dancing with them plus someone gave him a silver thong and he puts it on his head and dances with the other guys. I'm telling you that man has moves. Funny though, all week he said he had a bad knee and all of a sudden, there goes dandy long legs dancing up a storm. Finally, they put the song Staying Alive and gives us 2 microphones. Well that was just enough for me to get up and sing. I'm still trying to figure out why Christi, André, Louise or Bob didn't come with me. They fed me to the wolves. Good thing other people joined me on the dance floor, not that I remember because I was dancing, doing the moon walk, not sure what else. Then they decided to do the dance where everyone takes the person shoulders and follow. Well how it happened I do not know, but all of a sudden I was the first one in front and everyone at the club except 4 people were following. We were heading outside but the bartendar was saying, no come back, come back. I tell you, we closed the place down at 1:15 am and when we left, they were saying Vive les Canadiens, Vive les Canadiens. I was afraid that Bob and I would be on YouTube the next day. It was such great fun and Louise and Bob are very awesome. I would like to say COOL but Marla is cool might be offended. They left yesterday but I hope we keep in touch because they sure are fun to be around.
Today I am sick with the flu. Apparently in the newspaper, it says that the Nord-Pas de Calais (where I am) has the most cases in France this flu season. A few hours ago, I thought it would do me good to go to the Carrefour Express to get a few things. I felt kind of weak so I didn't have the energy to get fully dressed so I only did the bottom. The coat hid my pyjama top.
I bought a table at IKEA and I put it all together. I couldn't put all the screws in because I wasn't strong enough even with the holes already in it but it seems sturdy enough. Works for me. I can always use extra screws because I have a few loose in my head. No, only kidding. Now if the landlord can come and get the bar, I'll be all set. Princess Zina is with me for a week. Here she is making sure that I have all the right pieces at the right place.
Claire, thank you so much for the lovely gifts. Friday I worked at Vimy and I get a call from the girls at Beaumont-Hamel saying that a parcel had arrived. They know how I get excited so they were shaking it, telling me they knew what was inside and saying, ah you will not get it before Tuesday. That is how they treat me. No respect. Only kidding. However, Arlene (God bless you) brought it to me yesterday. I think that she was as curious as me to see what was inside. There is everything in there. Take a look. Claire planned it that way so that I would have something when I came back. We can't tell Berthe because Claire and I can only be friends through Berthe so when she signs, she has to put Berthe's sister and your friend in the 2nd degree.
Time to call it a night. I'll have a little bit of chicken noodle soup. That always hits the spot and then going to bed. So hope everyone had a great week-end. I certainly did and am so glad that I met Louise and Bob. I think Bob (not the furry one) might be from the same planet as me, because we like to have a good time. Louise is a gem and she has hair that I want, the cut that I want, the colour that I want. I am so jealous, not ready but I love your hair.
Hugs to everyone.
Friday night, I joined André, Christi, Louise and Bob for supper at this duck place. No way I was eating duck. Ducks belong in the water not on a plate. Louise and I had steak but the rest had duck. Poor thing. His mother probably misses her little ducks. Bob did convince me to try a piece of his duck and low and behold, I liked it. Next time I'm having duck. Too bad mama duck but it's not like I know you or anything.
Then we went to Karaoke. Now that was entertaining. The place was full but this little old man, quite old, was sitting alone and was wanting me to join him. I didn't want to break his heart. At his age, it could be dangerous, so I sat down. Once I told him I was Canadian and that my friends were Canadians, he shook my hand and was all excited. Anyway, I didn't sit down long, they found us a table and the fun began. It was this guy's birthday (31 yrs - I know this because I asked) and everyone at their table had wigs on and all wore Thongs over their jeans. Shinny, silver and gold thongs. We were looking for songs that we knew. Most of them were french and I didn't know them. Then Bob decides that he has to use the bathroom so there he goes. At the same time, birthday boy and his 2 other friends get up and start dancing. Bob comes out and they take him and he starts dancing with them plus someone gave him a silver thong and he puts it on his head and dances with the other guys. I'm telling you that man has moves. Funny though, all week he said he had a bad knee and all of a sudden, there goes dandy long legs dancing up a storm. Finally, they put the song Staying Alive and gives us 2 microphones. Well that was just enough for me to get up and sing. I'm still trying to figure out why Christi, André, Louise or Bob didn't come with me. They fed me to the wolves. Good thing other people joined me on the dance floor, not that I remember because I was dancing, doing the moon walk, not sure what else. Then they decided to do the dance where everyone takes the person shoulders and follow. Well how it happened I do not know, but all of a sudden I was the first one in front and everyone at the club except 4 people were following. We were heading outside but the bartendar was saying, no come back, come back. I tell you, we closed the place down at 1:15 am and when we left, they were saying Vive les Canadiens, Vive les Canadiens. I was afraid that Bob and I would be on YouTube the next day. It was such great fun and Louise and Bob are very awesome. I would like to say COOL but Marla is cool might be offended. They left yesterday but I hope we keep in touch because they sure are fun to be around.
Today I am sick with the flu. Apparently in the newspaper, it says that the Nord-Pas de Calais (where I am) has the most cases in France this flu season. A few hours ago, I thought it would do me good to go to the Carrefour Express to get a few things. I felt kind of weak so I didn't have the energy to get fully dressed so I only did the bottom. The coat hid my pyjama top.
I bought a table at IKEA and I put it all together. I couldn't put all the screws in because I wasn't strong enough even with the holes already in it but it seems sturdy enough. Works for me. I can always use extra screws because I have a few loose in my head. No, only kidding. Now if the landlord can come and get the bar, I'll be all set. Princess Zina is with me for a week. Here she is making sure that I have all the right pieces at the right place.
Claire, thank you so much for the lovely gifts. Friday I worked at Vimy and I get a call from the girls at Beaumont-Hamel saying that a parcel had arrived. They know how I get excited so they were shaking it, telling me they knew what was inside and saying, ah you will not get it before Tuesday. That is how they treat me. No respect. Only kidding. However, Arlene (God bless you) brought it to me yesterday. I think that she was as curious as me to see what was inside. There is everything in there. Take a look. Claire planned it that way so that I would have something when I came back. We can't tell Berthe because Claire and I can only be friends through Berthe so when she signs, she has to put Berthe's sister and your friend in the 2nd degree.
Time to call it a night. I'll have a little bit of chicken noodle soup. That always hits the spot and then going to bed. So hope everyone had a great week-end. I certainly did and am so glad that I met Louise and Bob. I think Bob (not the furry one) might be from the same planet as me, because we like to have a good time. Louise is a gem and she has hair that I want, the cut that I want, the colour that I want. I am so jealous, not ready but I love your hair.
Hugs to everyone.
Wednesday, 4 January 2012
You're messing with the wrong girl...
Yesterday morning was just like every other morning, Got up, showered, decided what to wear....the funny thing is that I like my uniform, anyway came downstairs to have breakfast. As I was walking toward the kitchen, I kind of noticed something with my left eye because we all know that I can't see from the right eye. There, against the wall, on the floor, thinking I couldn't see it, just kind of sitting there, my worst nightmare, mister spider. Well, first I went numb, then weak, then hyperventilated, then froze in my spot. I thought the nerve of that thing coming in here. It's winter, you're suppose to be frozen. So I took out my weapon, oh yes, I had created a weapon after the last time. I didn't want to use it because that would mean that there was a spider. I just wanted to pull every little leg off and make it roll. I know, it sounds pretty gruesome, ok awful because I don't know how to spell gruesome, grusome grewsome, anyway. Ya you ugly thing, try to come to mama now. Roll baby, roll. So I went to the closet and got my 2011 spider crusher. You're messing with the wrong girl.
Here's a before and after shot. You play with the best, the best gets you.
My 2011 spider crusher is only available in France but if you order now, you don't get only 1 2011 spider crusher, you get 2, 2011 spider crusher. Only available in blue. Instructions included: spot, knock, scrape. So easy, a kid can do it.
Last night, I went for supper at André and Christi. André's parents are in town and they invited me to go eat some Tourtière. Now that was yummy. Louise his mother, is one of my followers and this is how she knows what André and Christi are up to. She reads my blog. Bob his father loves to cook and it certainly showed with the tourtière. He is also very funny. Friday we are all going to kareoke. I feel stardom close by.
Tonight I went to play with Bob. Not you Bob, the other Bob, the furry one. Ah he came downstairs as soon as I walked in, then I picked him up and sat on the couch. I stayed for about an hour. He was saying, bring me with you, don't leave me here. I like it at your place. But I couldn't because Friday Zina is coming over for a week. She is some classy cat. Jean, you could learn a few things regarding cats. First of all, calling your cat kitty, is not original. You didn't go far to find that name. Second of all, cats are not suppose to fly, and I know kitty flies often.
Karine, baby goose, I read your blog and I love it. The pictures are so nice. Glad you had a good time travelling with your father. Gorana, I hope you made it home.
Big news, today I went to IKEA and I bought myself a long counter (kind of butcher's block) to put in place of the high ugly one. Poor André and Christi brought it up the stairs for me. It's nice being my age. People think you're old and take pity on you. I'm hoping that the landlord (which I have not seen since I signed the papers for my lease on June 15th) will come and take it out. I think it will look nice. Also bought new duvet covers for my 2 spare beds in Mirjam's room. This place is getting pretty cozy.
Well time for bed. In 5 days it will be 7 months that I'm here. I'm still enjoying every minute of it. New guides arriving Friday. Hope they like me. My New Years resolution is to be mean. No more mrs. nice woman. So talk to you soon. I'll tell you all about the kareoke. I don't think that's how you spell it but I'm sure it will be a good time.
Night all and be well.
Here's a before and after shot. You play with the best, the best gets you.
My 2011 spider crusher is only available in France but if you order now, you don't get only 1 2011 spider crusher, you get 2, 2011 spider crusher. Only available in blue. Instructions included: spot, knock, scrape. So easy, a kid can do it.
Last night, I went for supper at André and Christi. André's parents are in town and they invited me to go eat some Tourtière. Now that was yummy. Louise his mother, is one of my followers and this is how she knows what André and Christi are up to. She reads my blog. Bob his father loves to cook and it certainly showed with the tourtière. He is also very funny. Friday we are all going to kareoke. I feel stardom close by.
Tonight I went to play with Bob. Not you Bob, the other Bob, the furry one. Ah he came downstairs as soon as I walked in, then I picked him up and sat on the couch. I stayed for about an hour. He was saying, bring me with you, don't leave me here. I like it at your place. But I couldn't because Friday Zina is coming over for a week. She is some classy cat. Jean, you could learn a few things regarding cats. First of all, calling your cat kitty, is not original. You didn't go far to find that name. Second of all, cats are not suppose to fly, and I know kitty flies often.
Karine, baby goose, I read your blog and I love it. The pictures are so nice. Glad you had a good time travelling with your father. Gorana, I hope you made it home.
Big news, today I went to IKEA and I bought myself a long counter (kind of butcher's block) to put in place of the high ugly one. Poor André and Christi brought it up the stairs for me. It's nice being my age. People think you're old and take pity on you. I'm hoping that the landlord (which I have not seen since I signed the papers for my lease on June 15th) will come and take it out. I think it will look nice. Also bought new duvet covers for my 2 spare beds in Mirjam's room. This place is getting pretty cozy.
Well time for bed. In 5 days it will be 7 months that I'm here. I'm still enjoying every minute of it. New guides arriving Friday. Hope they like me. My New Years resolution is to be mean. No more mrs. nice woman. So talk to you soon. I'll tell you all about the kareoke. I don't think that's how you spell it but I'm sure it will be a good time.
Night all and be well.
Monday, 2 January 2012
Back to the routine
Well it is back to the routine starting tomorrow. New year, new guides, new resolutions, well we'll see about the resolutions.
To give you a bit of how my trip was, I'll start with a rainbow that just happened to be there when I was landing in Montreal from Paris on December 13. I took it as a sign that 2011 was going to finish on a great note and 2012 was going to be just as great. What more could I ask for.
I had a great time at home and got to spend quality time with Kevin. I think he was kind of glad to have me home so I could cook for him but we did watch TV together and had good chats. I also think that he was happy to see me go so he could go back to putting things where he wanted to and find them without me putting things away. I saw my friends, got alot of gifts (numbers count for me at Christmas, even if you wrap things I already have in the house. We all know that by now)... Here is a picture and most of them are for me. I think people give me gifts just so they can see me opening them.
And there are just as many in the back. Minime sure was glad that I was there. No more diet for her while I was home. I was very allergic to her my whole time there. It must be because I am no longer used to her fur so to try to overcome my allergies, I dressed her up just to cover as much fur as I could. An outfit just for her with her name... well almost her name.
She really isn't uncomfortable, she is just resting on the floor. She plays dead alot when she has clothes on, I just don't know why.
One gift that I really want to tell you about is the spoon that I received from Philippe. He carved one for Diane and one for me. Philippe has many talents and this is just one of them.
It will be 5 years on January 16th that my mother passed away. Everytime I talked to her, she would always say Oui Chere, yes dear, so when I got this spoon with that written on it, I cried. I used to talk to her twice a day, every day and the last time I talked to her, it was on the phone. She was in the hospital but we never expected her to die. She was just there because she felt a bit weak and her heart wasn't beating as fast as it should. She had played bridge in the afternoon. Philippe had had supper with her and everything was fine. When my Belle Belle-soeur Margot called me to tell me to call the hospital, I knew something was wrong. Philippe told me that all of a sudden, she was weak and that she wasn't doing well. I asked if I could talk to her and he put her on the phone. I said maman, I'm coming home tomorrow, wait for me and her last words to me were Oui Chere. Now I am telling you because I want you to know how proud I was being her daughter. Diane, Philippe and I still argue on who she loved the most. I say me because I was the baby, Philippe says it was him because he is the only son and Diane says it was her because she was the oldest but we all know really, it was me. ha ha ha...Now after I spoke with her, I called Diane and told her, call Mom because she is not doing well. Diane also called her and the last words she spoke to her was, Diane, I love everybody in the world. Those were in fact her last words and wouldn't you know it, Diane got a spoon too with those words written on it. The doctor ordered morphine just to relax her. She went peacefully like a beautiful flower at 9:20 that night. She couldn't wait for me but if you look on the top of my spoon, you will see a star and that star is her watching over me. Diane has a moon on the top of her spoon. Philippe says that he put the star there because to him, I am a star but I like my version better. Sorry Philippe.
OK, now my trip back. New Year Eve, having my last supper with Allen at Wendy's eating a No. 7, chicken combo, sitting at a table and the song that was playing was, O Holy Night. Now what more do you want for your last meal of 2011. On the plane from Montreal to Paris, I gave up my seat 4 times to accommodate people that were travelling together. I really wanted to be NO MORE NICE GIRL for 2012 but a young couple were sitting apart and the guy asked me if I would consider changing seat with his fiancé. I just couldn't say no. I got 2 hugs and 3 chocolates. Gee, this trip was going to be good. So I went from a window seat to a middle seat, 4 rows back. Then the lady sitting beside me was travelling with her husband and she looked at me with pityful eyes, so I said would you like to sit together. Her smile was a gift by itself. OK lady, where's the chocolates...so I went from the middle seat to an aisle seat. Then the lady sitting beside me, just plained scared me. She said, madame, my son is 7 and is sitting over there alone, I'm sure you won't mind changing. She wasn't even nice about it. Anyway, I ended up 7 rows up in the middle seat with two other losers travelling alone on New Years Eve. The one by the window decided that she was going to do yoga in her seat. Who does that. Her legs were all over the place. Both girls took my armrest so I had none. I didn't dare move. Miss YOGA GIRL had her knee on my lap and Miss I'M GOING TO MAKE AS MUCH NOISE WITH MY BAG OF CANDIES AS I WANT, had that hand in it. I had to give her the look a few times. Finally by the time we hit mid Atlantic, she had finished, and it wasn't a soft plastic bag either, it was the hard kind like what peanuts come in. However, we got to Paris and nobody was hurt. Now, the first song I heard on New Year as I was trying to fit all my luggage in the elevator manoeuvering the cart, was the song HELP from the Beatles. I thought it was pretty appropriate.
Well I've said alot for one night. Tomorrow I work at Vimy so time for bed. It is 10:21 pm and I better get some sleep. Here are a few more pictures. Enjoy your evening. Rachelle it was nice talking to you on Skype and Therese what a surprise talking to you also on skype.
Allen surprised me with a new ring. I love it.
My plants died while I was away. I forgot I had plants.
Catherine, my step-daughter and her now fiancée Peter. They got engaged on Dec 26th. It was a surprise for everyone, even for her but they seem very happy.
No need to explain this one.
My new pot from Carmen. I needed one and this one is so cute. She has good taste.
To give you a bit of how my trip was, I'll start with a rainbow that just happened to be there when I was landing in Montreal from Paris on December 13. I took it as a sign that 2011 was going to finish on a great note and 2012 was going to be just as great. What more could I ask for.
I had a great time at home and got to spend quality time with Kevin. I think he was kind of glad to have me home so I could cook for him but we did watch TV together and had good chats. I also think that he was happy to see me go so he could go back to putting things where he wanted to and find them without me putting things away. I saw my friends, got alot of gifts (numbers count for me at Christmas, even if you wrap things I already have in the house. We all know that by now)... Here is a picture and most of them are for me. I think people give me gifts just so they can see me opening them.
And there are just as many in the back. Minime sure was glad that I was there. No more diet for her while I was home. I was very allergic to her my whole time there. It must be because I am no longer used to her fur so to try to overcome my allergies, I dressed her up just to cover as much fur as I could. An outfit just for her with her name... well almost her name.
One gift that I really want to tell you about is the spoon that I received from Philippe. He carved one for Diane and one for me. Philippe has many talents and this is just one of them.
It will be 5 years on January 16th that my mother passed away. Everytime I talked to her, she would always say Oui Chere, yes dear, so when I got this spoon with that written on it, I cried. I used to talk to her twice a day, every day and the last time I talked to her, it was on the phone. She was in the hospital but we never expected her to die. She was just there because she felt a bit weak and her heart wasn't beating as fast as it should. She had played bridge in the afternoon. Philippe had had supper with her and everything was fine. When my Belle Belle-soeur Margot called me to tell me to call the hospital, I knew something was wrong. Philippe told me that all of a sudden, she was weak and that she wasn't doing well. I asked if I could talk to her and he put her on the phone. I said maman, I'm coming home tomorrow, wait for me and her last words to me were Oui Chere. Now I am telling you because I want you to know how proud I was being her daughter. Diane, Philippe and I still argue on who she loved the most. I say me because I was the baby, Philippe says it was him because he is the only son and Diane says it was her because she was the oldest but we all know really, it was me. ha ha ha...Now after I spoke with her, I called Diane and told her, call Mom because she is not doing well. Diane also called her and the last words she spoke to her was, Diane, I love everybody in the world. Those were in fact her last words and wouldn't you know it, Diane got a spoon too with those words written on it. The doctor ordered morphine just to relax her. She went peacefully like a beautiful flower at 9:20 that night. She couldn't wait for me but if you look on the top of my spoon, you will see a star and that star is her watching over me. Diane has a moon on the top of her spoon. Philippe says that he put the star there because to him, I am a star but I like my version better. Sorry Philippe.
OK, now my trip back. New Year Eve, having my last supper with Allen at Wendy's eating a No. 7, chicken combo, sitting at a table and the song that was playing was, O Holy Night. Now what more do you want for your last meal of 2011. On the plane from Montreal to Paris, I gave up my seat 4 times to accommodate people that were travelling together. I really wanted to be NO MORE NICE GIRL for 2012 but a young couple were sitting apart and the guy asked me if I would consider changing seat with his fiancé. I just couldn't say no. I got 2 hugs and 3 chocolates. Gee, this trip was going to be good. So I went from a window seat to a middle seat, 4 rows back. Then the lady sitting beside me was travelling with her husband and she looked at me with pityful eyes, so I said would you like to sit together. Her smile was a gift by itself. OK lady, where's the chocolates...so I went from the middle seat to an aisle seat. Then the lady sitting beside me, just plained scared me. She said, madame, my son is 7 and is sitting over there alone, I'm sure you won't mind changing. She wasn't even nice about it. Anyway, I ended up 7 rows up in the middle seat with two other losers travelling alone on New Years Eve. The one by the window decided that she was going to do yoga in her seat. Who does that. Her legs were all over the place. Both girls took my armrest so I had none. I didn't dare move. Miss YOGA GIRL had her knee on my lap and Miss I'M GOING TO MAKE AS MUCH NOISE WITH MY BAG OF CANDIES AS I WANT, had that hand in it. I had to give her the look a few times. Finally by the time we hit mid Atlantic, she had finished, and it wasn't a soft plastic bag either, it was the hard kind like what peanuts come in. However, we got to Paris and nobody was hurt. Now, the first song I heard on New Year as I was trying to fit all my luggage in the elevator manoeuvering the cart, was the song HELP from the Beatles. I thought it was pretty appropriate.
Well I've said alot for one night. Tomorrow I work at Vimy so time for bed. It is 10:21 pm and I better get some sleep. Here are a few more pictures. Enjoy your evening. Rachelle it was nice talking to you on Skype and Therese what a surprise talking to you also on skype.
My plants died while I was away. I forgot I had plants.
Catherine, my step-daughter and her now fiancée Peter. They got engaged on Dec 26th. It was a surprise for everyone, even for her but they seem very happy.
No need to explain this one.
My new pot from Carmen. I needed one and this one is so cute. She has good taste.
Sunday, 1 January 2012
I have arrived
Happy New Year. Wishing you all the best for 2012. Just arrived. After a 1 1/2 hour from Charlottetown to Montreal, just had time to catch my plane. They were already boarding. Changed seats 4 times oh yes 4 TIMES, 6 hour plane ride to Paris instead of 6 1/2 because apparently the wind made us arrive sooner, 3 hour wait at the airport for my train, 50 minutes to Arras, then waiting 1/2 hour for a taxi that never came, walked with my luggage to home on cobbled stone sidewalks, climbed up 2 flights to stairs and here I am. I am going to bed now.
Before I go, Binky happy birthday for yesterday, Karine, thank you for the teddy bear and lovely note. I needed that coming back, Zina, I love my present. To all family and friends, thank you for believing in me and encouraging me. Another year has started, other adventures. I will blog later and post pictures but for now, good night.
Before I go, Binky happy birthday for yesterday, Karine, thank you for the teddy bear and lovely note. I needed that coming back, Zina, I love my present. To all family and friends, thank you for believing in me and encouraging me. Another year has started, other adventures. I will blog later and post pictures but for now, good night.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)