tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86044747237594637122024-03-13T12:36:58.680-03:00IT'S ME, SAMI started out writing about personal finances, and now? I write about my life, which includes my DD, my dog and my extended family. I still talk about money, and I will say that I am slowly getting better at handling my finances.its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.comBlogger1468125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-10769171345297409772023-04-04T10:50:00.000-03:002023-04-04T10:50:15.784-03:00What I spent for January to March- 2023 ( ouch) and other random thingsBetween Costco and the grocery store, I spent 3400.00. Yes, youu read that right. 3400.00 That does account for my new laptop. Added into that money is new clothing ( underwear, jacket, house stuff). So I'm guessing that about 2500 went towards groceries. It works out to be 209.00/week to feed 3-4 people. Which is way more than my old budget of 80.00/ week. But you have to feed teenagers and their friends. Both girls prefer dairy free, and a 2 litre of oatmilk last maybe 2-3 days. I include them in the buying of the groceries, as its helped eliminate some of the food waste, and they love finding food items from home.
I should mention that twice a month, we get a stipend to help off set the cost of hosting the girls. I've increased the power/water/gas budgets accordingly. I also spent just under 650.00 at Ikea and Winners ( new duvet covers for the girls rooms, mini edison style lights for their rooms, new patio chairs for when the weather improves). Their rooms are more like them now, and it was a fairly inexpensive way to personalize their rooms.
I started to use the envelopes again at the beginning of March, as I was getting a smidge careless with my sepnding. I write the amount put in, and deduced the money spent on the outside. I'll start one for summer vacation next week, as LG was approved for a week off in August, giving him almost the entire month off... It will be quite lovely. It's always hard the first 2 days he's gone away, but it so nice for him to be home for 3 weeks. Hello to getting small projects done.
its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-54086711875156881102023-03-17T12:45:00.003-03:002023-03-17T12:45:54.341-03:00ST. Paddy's day-2023Oh, how the Irish and those that wish they were Irish will celerbrate today! I'm working tonight, as I'd rather save money than spend money on a hangover. ( that's my scottish roots taking hold) LOL
LG is away on his work rotation. It changed, and this time he will be away for 2 weeks, and then back to a 3 week schedule. I'll be working 9/14 days he is gone this time, and I usually only work 12/21 days he's away. It's flying south time here, and many of my co-workers are headed down south, hence me working so much right now). Yes, it is hard when he is gone, but we do face time once or twice a day ( Depending on my work schedule). He's paid off 1/2 his divorce debt since mid-August. ( His divorce was final last April, after they had been split for 7 years, they split in March of 2015, we met in September of 2015). He kept the house, hence the debt. His son is living in the house (He is 20 now), and it will be signed over to him in another 10-15 years. That is LG's only debt.
I did buy a new to me vehicle over a month ago. It's my only debt, and it's less than 200.00 biweekly for 64 months. I can pay it off at any time if I chose... Which I won't. I still have my Fit, and I will be putting it up for sale next month. It's value is around 8,000.00 CDN. That money will go into the bank. I have a few projects planned for the house, and that cash will help pay for them.
We had a lovely visit with my darling daughter and her fiancee in early March, It was a very busy few days, but it was so good to move around the city. I went in November for the first time since 2018, and I love the area she moved to. I'm planning on seeing her about 4 times a year now, as LG flies in to her city every 3 weeks, and when he is on his return home, I like to meet him there and we visit with my girl for a few days. It's a win /win all around.
While we were away, Miss A had a vaction at a kennel. She was the queen bee while she was there. She actually acted like a dog, and interacted very well with the other dogs. Here, at home, she is still hyper protective, and doesn't like anyone she doesn't know , even walk by the house. I will continue to take her there once a month or so, just for the day or any over night stay, so she will stay familiar with the owners. ( Who are absolutely amazing).
its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-44072608796546177662023-03-14T21:06:00.001-03:002023-03-14T21:06:08.606-03:00a new dayHello all,
I finally did it, I bought a lap top... after all, my other computer is 14 years old and no longer allows me to do anything but read eamils ans listen to music. I can finally get back into writing on a more regualr basis and read your blogs. its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-69473936604944115202023-01-08T09:34:00.005-04:002023-01-08T09:34:57.026-04:00My former careerwhile I won't clearly spell out my.old career, I will say it involved hours of static standing by time, and also included that ability to react to any suitation using physical strength if necessary, through non violent intervention, among other things. I lost the ability to provide a safe environment for myself, my coworkers and the clients I served. Another hindrance was the work gear. ( It added about 10 lbs onto my.body). I grieved hard when it all came apart in 2019. ( and I knew I was in a bad place, mental healthwise, when I can close to setting the house on fire 3 times in the span of 6 weeks, due to my own fatigue and stress levels). I went to counseling for a year to help sort through my emotions. I had to grieve a lot of losses, ( part of our identity as an adult is caught up in our career choices, and I'm still shedding that identity ). It was a unionized job, and to be very honest, when I went for help from them, I got some shoulder shrugs and an "oh, well" attitude. There are times when you pick your battles, and my health was my priority ( and still is).
Yes, serving is hard work, but my body is moving constantly.I rarely sit down and the little bit of time I'm standing still, I'm usually still moving some part of my body.
I find at my.other part time.job hard on my neck and shoulders. but I show up and get things done. I will be looking at numbers soon and make a decision about retirement time frames then.
its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-79058150019022454242022-12-31T09:28:00.001-04:002022-12-31T09:28:25.235-04:00DECEMBER 31, 2022well, hello all! it has been over a year since I last wrote anything. I'm not sure why, as this used to be such a huge outlet, but I've really let it slip in the past few years. actually, the real reason was I was still struggling with so much stuff. However, it has all finally come together. Over 4 years ago, I was rear-ended, and the final result was it ended my.former career. I struggled from October 2018 to September 2019 to be able to do the job( I started at 4 hours, 2 days a week, and ended up sitting at 24 hours a week working 3 days , spending 4 days recovering, 1 OK day and then repeated the cycle. It was not a good space, physically or mentally. after having some intense evaluations done, I was told my career was over. So, in short, I was on Long term disability for 2 years. I have 2 part time jobs now, one I work part-time as a administrative assistant, and the second is as a server. I just settled the legal aspect of the accident, which was another huge relief. I can now say I'm debt free... ( in the grand scheme of things, I didn't owe a huge amount, but I am so relieved that it's done). I've learned a lot about my relationship with money over the past 4 years, and have adjusted my attitdue towards it.
LG and I are still going strong. It's been over 7 years, and evey day I appreciate him more and more. My darling daughter recently got engaged. I may splurge on a lap top, as my trusty computer is still working, but I'm.not sure for how much long. I want to wish each and everyone a wonderful 2023. I'll be back again soon.
Samits me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-77889472375926209852021-08-31T10:55:00.000-03:002021-08-31T10:55:02.762-03:00It's been over 13 years now...The anniversary of my blog was a few weeks ago.. thirteen years... How time flies... It's been a good summer, despite the ever increasing numbers. I still wear my mask whereever i go. I did get to hug my DD a few weeks ago. After 27 months, it felt so good! ( and yes, I cried)... We had a whirl wind vist, about 36 hours , and i'm so grateful. We camped, and limited our contacts. we cooked at the campsite, and when out exploring, we were careful. Now that summer is winding down, I'm still hoping for a few beach days, but the weekedns for september are filling up. We are going to a wedding at the nd of the month, and I'm excited. ( At her first wedding i prayed he'd be a no show, but he did.. and they've been divorced for over 6 years), and I adore her fiance... I'll write more at a later date...
its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-68067049466514638252021-07-12T12:06:00.001-03:002021-07-12T12:06:04.882-03:00July 12, 2021 It's ben a while... Life just keeps ticking by, and boom, its been a few months since i've wrote anything. Covid restrctions are slowly being lifted. LG and I, along with our familt have been blessed to have received both doses of vaccine. ( LG's son however is refusing to get it as of now, for reasons onlt know to him). He has now gratudated from high school and hopefully he'll be going to trades school in the fall, or working. We will be having a small celebration for familt and family friends this weekend for him. We are taking care of the meat/protien part and everyone else i bring the salads and snacks. ( How blessed is he to have such love in his life).
We havent made any firm plans fr the summer, just doing things at random when opportunity arises. ( So far, a boat ride, a drive on the harley, ice cream cones, exploring places unknown around us). We 9 fingers crossed) will be meeting Dd and her BF half way for a weekend visit involving camping...
I've been reading as ususal, and continuing decluttering ( not much left). heres to a wonderful 2021 summer. its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-82673849933640462512021-04-14T13:23:00.002-03:002021-04-14T13:23:12.899-03:00April 14, 2021Hello all!
How are you all doing one year in ( plus)? There are days when my soul is tired of all the craziness in the world ( but yet, I'm finding moments of joy, hope, happiness during those days. there are days where the sun is shining, the birds are singing and among the craziness, I am hopeful! I am grateful that we have been fairly lucky ( so far) with ur cvid numbers, but with 2 of the variants now here, I continue to pray that we all stay safe, i wear my mask in stores, I limit my outings to the stores, we continue to keep our steady 15 ( its less than that, but that is the number we are allowed).
We've made no plans for the summer, other than to take the opportunity to do things when they come. We are going to do some small, inexpensive things around the house, like make the back deck smaller ( I know, but it will make shoveling in the winter that much easier). When it is finished, I'll try to post some photos in late summer). Even my trusty BBQ ( its a cast body, and was bought in 2005 got a makeover this winter. My LG is even fixing the burner ( it;s the origional one and I'll buy one on line, plus I'll look for someone to build one out of stainless steel). The body of the BBQ is amazing, and I will never find one that will last as long... So a bit of elbow grease and time...
I'm clearing out the house of things that no longer serve me... Some of DD's toys( actually most that were here are gone to new homes). I'be sold items, given them away, and tossed junk... I still have more to do, but I'm trying to do a little bit each day! I'm boxing up items for DD that will go to here hopefully in JUne. I'm not sure if I will go to see her, as travel is still restricted... But I'm entertaining the thought, and will self isolate at Lg's home in the country if need be, while he stays at my home. ( That way I can have the dog with me, and walk her daily on his property). But that is very dependant on a whole lot of things!
As I sat here writing this today, I just had the deep relization that I feel so much better when I write... I think I'll work on writing here more often, even if it's only a few sentences... Miss you all... I truly do... I miss reading about the mundane details ( and big events)of so many of your lives... I was thinking about Eboo and Udi with a J.... wondering how you all are? There are more too... But... I'll save them for another day!
:)
Samits me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-69742491551446323862021-02-23T10:43:00.005-04:002021-02-23T10:43:50.236-04:00Feb 23.2021Today is a snow day here... The 2cms ended up being over 25cms. But it is light and fluffy... The dog will get a walk later, when its been plowed some and safer! I'm currently purging the house of all kinds of stuff. Christmas decorations, no longer needed items that are either being sold or donated ( so far the things i;ve sold is 350.00 in my pocket). Some of the items are ebing gifted dirctly to people who need them. Others are being given to the local Sally Ann to be sold. The plan is to slowly renovate the basement, one section at a time. The ceilings will be cleaned and painted white, the center jack post will be moved and 2 will be added to bear the load. ( the center jack post is almost directly in front of the stairs... the floors are going to b painted to help keep the dust down, and when the time comes to add floors, it will make for a cleaner job. This will take a while, as things will be purchased very slowly... But I'ven been in the house for almost 17 years, so what is another one or two? We are staying safe here, and keeping our steady 10. I do miss my girl, who i haven;t seen in almost 2 years... I'm hoping by September that i will get to see her, but I'm not holding my breath. I hope you are all staying safe, and healthy.
its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-13649749049590442772020-11-12T10:35:00.003-04:002020-11-12T10:35:37.395-04:00It's November? Strange how time flies by as we get older. The days still seem long, but the weeks and months fly by. What's new? Not much! Still, like everyone else is the world, listening to the news about Covid and how its affecting others. Here in my little corner of the world, we are still in a bubble with the other 3 Atlanic proviences.Which means we can go to those proviences and visit family, go on a vacation or take a day trip. However, my girl lives in a provience that has a large covid presence, and that means no seeing her for a while. ( And it sucks). I can go there, and vivist but upon my return I would have to self-isolate for 14 days, and take the risk of catching it. So, I'm being a good momma, and staying home. It means Christmas will be different this year, as she was coming home, but heres to next year. we will celebrate as always, with turkey, and all the fixings, visiting with family and friends, LG will be off, so a week of rst for him. We are almost finished shopping, so that's an added bonus.
I'm focusing on cleaning the house, sorting through stuff and either selling, tossing of giving away. I've been listening to podcasts, which i love... I'm still at home full time, focusing on healing and becoming stronger in all areas of my life.
My mother sold the family home just over a month ago. It was on the market for a whole 12 hours before it sold ( for over asking price). She is now settled into an apartment and loving it. No more shoveling for her! She isn't a stuff person, which made it easy. She tossed 9 bags of garbage, shredded 3 bags of papers, set things to the curb ( like her computer desk and chair), which was scooped up in a few hours. She is still going through a few things in her home and all the boxed are unpacked exect the photo albums. The new owners asked if she would leave most of the furnishings ( and she did). Plus they were looking for a couch and loveseat for the basement, which I happened to have.. They are now lving with new people and not tossed in the garabge.
I hope you are all doing ok, and taking care of yourselves first!its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-38117095407160111412020-09-03T06:30:00.001-03:002020-09-03T06:30:04.942-03:00September 2020Hello all,
I hope that this year of covid finds you healthy and happy ( taking into account all of the craziness in the world right now). Things have changed here very little, besides wearing masks into stores, and not going out to eat very often). Many of my friends have said they have more money now, and time. Time to just be... LG amd I have been working on projects here at my home. A new roof was installed in June with help of family ( and I was not on the roof). A new fence is being built section by section ( thanks to LD's father who's given me/us the wood to build it. He's got a large property that is filled with cedar, spruce and juniper. He's used all the blow downs and has cut all the lumber with his portable saw mill. I/we've spent under a 1000.00 on the fence for things like oil based stain, screws and having the posts set in concrete. My sister, who's looking to have a new fence build in her city, told me that she guesstimated that the fence would cost about 15-20,000 to have someone build and buy lumber... LG's having fun figuring it out, while I'm telling him what i want, and he's making it happen. My mother has decied to sell her home( the family home), the one she's lived in since 1964. It's not a big space, but it's a lot of work, and she's realized that its too much. She'll be listing it soon, and she'll be a wandering soul til she finds the apartment she wants ( she's on a few waiting lists). She's decided that it's easier to sell the house first, stick her stuff in storage, and visit her children until she finds her new space. It wasnt an easy decision, but I think she's happy with it... I'm still ticking along, doing my thing, and I'm hoping by this time next year to have a whole lot more to say. I do keep on lurking around, but can't seem to sit down and write on the computer. Maybe becuse the computer is 11 years old... but it still works ( but not the spell check)... It's been nice to sit and write this morning, I've forgotten what it feels like.... Maybe I'll set it up to write once a month... Get back into the habit...
Stay safe my friends, wash your hands and wear a mask... And practice kindness where ever you go!
its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-34940100856638308452020-04-16T19:17:00.000-03:002020-04-16T19:17:49.209-03:00It seems a bit surreal...Hello all!<br />
<br />
How is your new reality going?<br />
<br />
This has been a very interesting year so far... The biggest thing on peoples minds is the "virus". Here in my little corner of the world, there are very few confirmed cases, but that does not mean it's not here. We are lucky that 63% of our population live in single family homes, and that only 10% of apartment buildings are larger than 4 stories high. LG and I are fortunate that we can move between our houses... ( We are unofficially living together now, and his dear boy is now staying with us too). They go to work together 4 days a week ( his work place is working reduced hours, and DB can go with his dad and stay busy for the day).<br />
<br />
I've been spending my days maintaining my health ( and I cannot wait for the chiropractor reopens,<br />
) cooking, baking, studying, reading, etc. I'm working on being mindful of what I'm doing and why I'm doing certain things... :)<br />
<br />
My momma continues to keep up the pace. She turned 80 not long ago, and our plans for a celebration fell through. However, she continues to walk daily, practice yoga, knit, bake, etc. She's a retired nurse who has seen the hong kong flu, the asiatic flu, AIDS ( this was her specialty the last 20 years of her career), etc and has always been aware of keeping healthy. Her goal is to live to be 106 with a healthy body and mind... She's doing well...<br />
<br />
The new normal is grocery shopping once a week done by me, I leave the house before 8 and do both my shopping and my mothers. I get home, unload and clean things and by the time that is done it's almost noon... I do have some anxiety beforehand, but it's been getting better with time. Like most places, things like flour, yeast, potatoes and some styles of meat are limited in finding/buying. I scored a 50lb bag of flour yesterday for 23.00 ( I felt like a goddess on a hunt). I've been using the kitchen aid mixer at least 3 days a week and it now living in the kitchen counter. We have bought shares in a local CSA, and will plant a garden too. ( LG's father will mill the wood we need, and we will build the boxes). I have an unused cold room in my home ( it has a teeny tiny entrance and freaks me out) and the plan is to have a full sized door installed in the future and that will be LG's job to maintain and keep up. We will be using local farmers for our meat supply also.<br />
<br />
One of the biggest things I've noticed is how quiet things are and how clear the skies are.<br />
I am missing having coffee/lunch dates with my friends, social outing... Hope everyone is staying healthy!its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-12239490969020539042020-01-10T12:30:00.002-04:002020-01-10T12:30:54.064-04:00Hello 2020!Hello all!<br />
<br />
I will acknowledge that 2019 was a not so kind year for many people. I have high hopes for 2020! Life has been ticking along, all are in reasonable good health. I continue to read your blogs and keep you in my thoughts. I will promise to write just a little note each month to let you know that I'm still kicking ! I will write a very long post sometime over the summer... I hope this yeat is a great one for you all!its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-80963532537755584922019-10-10T08:48:00.000-03:002019-10-10T08:48:17.266-03:00October 10/19Hello all!<br />
<br />
I'm still kicking! I'm just touching base to say hello and at some point I'll write a long and lovely post about what's been happening. I still read your blogs and hope that everyone is doing ok. Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian friends... its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-5065326289913870452019-07-23T18:11:00.000-03:002019-07-23T18:11:14.583-03:00Hello all!Just a quick note to say I'm still around. Working through some stuff... but it's slowly coming together. No worries, LG and I are still good. Everyone is still kicking. I'll be back some time in the next few months to say hello!its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-25058123213772919242019-04-23T14:18:00.000-03:002019-04-23T14:18:15.408-03:00Say a prayer please...My little city has been devastated by the loss of 4 young lives this past weekend in a single car crash. While I didn't know any of the kids personally, I do know many of the first responders and hospital staff involved in the incident. LG knows all the parents and kids. DB is grieving his lost friends. Hugs your loved ones tight, one never knows whats around the corner.<br />
<br />
Sam its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-26840104578323917952019-04-12T08:40:00.000-03:002019-04-12T08:40:01.316-03:00I've fallen off the radar...The past 7 weeks have been a bit of a whirl wind... I've read some of your updates but not all... I hope that the spring/ fall depending where yo live has been kind to you so far.<br />
<br />
Since my last update, LG has under gone a MRI, a consultation with a neurosurgeon and under went minimally invasive back surgery! It was a huge success! He has no more pain, he's allowed to drive again and to see the difference in him has been amazing. it was a crazy few weeks, but we made it through it.<br />
<br />
I took the first part of a course, now I have to do the hands on part, which will take me about 6 months or so. I really enjoyed it, but I had some challenges... My dyslexia, which has been always been slowly simmering in the back ground, was in high gear. right left, up, down, b-d, p-q, posed some serious challenges. I made it work for me, not without some tears and being upset with myself ( feeling stupid like I did as a kid for brief moments of time). I had to stop and remind myself that I could do this, and just feel my way through it. I did notice that i did not doodle what so ever while learning, and for me, that's how I learn ( auditory and tactile), I didn't want to appear rude, so I ignored myself and struggled as a consequence. Next time, I'll be doodling like mad.lol<br />
<br />
It's been a lot of small AH moments in the past months too... I've learned that my anxiety manifests itself in procrastination... I'm not lazy... At almost 50, this has been a small but significant break through. I'm learning new techniques to work with it... Who say you can't teach an old dog new tricks. :)<br />
<br />
I'm still doing my routine of work treatments, rest, recovery... B-Kat, a while ago you offered some support... I'm going to email you soon... <br />
<br />
I hope everyone is doing ok. I think of Canadian saver daily and add her to my get well list... I'm sign off for now, and I'll make a conscious effort to write sooner than later!<br />
<br />
Sam its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-54956762961790064542019-02-22T07:36:00.000-04:002019-02-22T07:36:33.779-04:00Feb 22/19Hello All,<br />
<br />
How are things in your corner of the world? It's snowy and cold ( most days) around here, which has made for a very long winter so far. there is lots of ice under the snow, which can make walking dangerous, so the walks are short and infrequent. ( Note to self, buy ice grippers for my boots for 2020).<br />
<br />
I've been to see the naturapothic DR, and I'm taking some vitamins to help with my physical body ( and they are helping me mentally), plus she added meditation to my daily routine and a blast of cold water to end my showers... <br />
<br />
I'm still working my way back to FT. Its a very slow process... But this week, I increased by work week by 2 hours! Go me! I keep plugging away and I'd like to be back FT by May ( but we shall see).<br />
<br />
LG is down and out with his back. He's off for sure for a few weeks, and he'll be applying for sick EI. Fingers crossed that he'll get the ball rolling and specialist can been seen sooner than later.<br />
<br />
My bills are paid, i have plenty of food to eat and a warm home, a car to drive and family that loves me. What more could I ask for? ( Some day I'll write more about that lol)<br />
<br />
I've been cleaning slowly but steadily. I've donated about 80 books, gifted a few sets to people who will love them as much as I did. I've donated a big bag of clothing and boots. I have started to gather up DD's things that are still here and will deliver her things to her when ever we go to visit her. I am going to tackle the dreaded paper work this weekend. This has always been my biggest issue... But it's a new year, and I'm going to become friends with my papers. :)<br />
<br />
I even took the back of the dryer and gave it a good cleaning. There was very little lint, some sand, and a pearl earring, tweezers, and bobby pins found... I was thrilled! I even ( well LG did), sanded the top of the dryer where it had rusted, and a little bit of white appliance spray paint and it looks amazing!<br />
<br />
and to finish off:<br />
<br />
Canadian Saver, I hope your treatments are going well! I've been saying a few prayers and healing vibes your way.<br />
<br />
Eboo, if you read this, I hope all is well. I miss reading your blogs, and if you have a new one, could you send me a link? I was tidying the other day, and was looking at my soaps, and was wishing that you and your sister were still selling them!<br />
<br />
Jolie, just thinking about you!<br />
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Samits me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-65726350572133955612019-01-17T08:38:00.003-04:002019-01-17T08:38:44.406-04:00Jan 17/19So this first month of 2019 is now half over. And what's been happening around here?<br />
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Not much! ( Which is a good thing).<br />
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I'm still attending appointments every week... I'm making a conscious effort to keep one day during the week free, but some weeks that's impossible. I'm still on a gradual return to work at my Ft job and working little bits at my PT job. <br />
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Today is my free day, so I'll be doing some house work, visiting with my cousin and picking up DB at his home and bring him here for supper. It's easier for me to pick him up than for his dad to leave work, pick him up and come back which would be an hour for him. It's the same for me, but it gives LG time to rest his back, shower and relax for a bit. My plan is to have everything prepped for supper, and then cook it when we get back.<br />
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My money is less than what I have had, but i'm making it work! I have 11 years left on my mortgage, and 7 of the LOC. I'm hoping to have both gone by Dec 2025. Fingers crossed.<br />
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My lovely female dog is doing quite well. She seems to be much better at being a lone dog. I miss my boy something fierce. It's still strange to come home and not see him dancing at the top of the stairs with a shoe in his mouth.<br />
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I'm slowly getting the house clean. I've realized that I'm a Q-tip cleaner. What I clean has to be spotless and at this point I cannot do the whole house like this in one day... So I'm slowly getting things cleaned ( deep clean) and keeping up with with the day to day stuff... I've also come to the conclusion that while i have messy spots in the house, behind the closet doors and drawers, cupboards, I'm very organized.<br />
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I hope everyone is having a good start to the new year. I've got to get a few groceries today, as they are predicting a massive snow storm for Sunday ( 40-50 cms), and I know that the stores will be super busy on Saturday... I have to work Sunday at my FT job, so I'm making plans to potentially stay with my mom on Sunday after work. It's close to work and she won't be alone for this one. its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-86750571991682394122018-12-27T08:44:00.000-04:002018-12-27T08:44:10.560-04:00Dec 27/18Hello all,<br />
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I hoping that everyone who reads this has had a wonderful Christmas/holiday season. My darling daughter was able to spent Christmas here thanks to my wonderful BF, LG... Who paid to fly her home after a series of work related events that enabled her to be off for Christmas. It was the best gift I have ever received, we totally surprised my mother, who was in a state of shock over the surprise. LG said it was the best gift that he has ever given, and the one that will stay in his heart forever. His son, DB was blessed to witness what the season is all about, giving from the heart and bringing joy to others.<br />
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We opened gifts, ate two turkey dinners ( one with LGs parents and one with my momma). My DD and mother had lunch with LG's parents, which was spent laughing and telling stories. We spent time with friends over the weekend, and I got to spend an hour holding and rocking a friends 5 week old grand daughter ( oh, that was just what I needed, an hour of sitting and talking to my friend while holding a new baby, pure heaven).<br />
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It's been a week full of memories, both old and making new ones. My brother came over with his youngest two. My nephews spent a lot of time talking about my father, and the things that he did with/to them... It was so sweet to hear them talk and laugh about his antics... kidnapping their stuffies and cooking endless amount of bacon...<br />
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My younger sister and family will be arriving later on today, and we'll be eating prime rib with all the fixings... plus there is a plan to have a bon fire and play some board games too... There will be walking of dogs, enjoying the sunshine and maybe a bit of shopping... <br />
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My girl flies back on Saturday, and she is getting together with some high school friends on Friday evening, and one is taking her back to the airport the next day. I had to work on boxing day, so my DD spent the day, and night with my momma. She and my mom baked together, as DD wanted to learn how to make a few things... That made my heart sing...<br />
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I truly feel blessed this holiday season, as it was one packed full of wonderful memories, both old and new. I hope you all have a wonderful end to 2018! See you in the new year!<br />
<br />its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-3629668519353779402018-11-28T18:05:00.000-04:002018-11-28T18:05:05.633-04:00The end of an era...Yesterday, my darling puppy, my golden boy crossed the rainbow bridge. It was a very hard decision to make, but watching him fail like he had in the past few weeks, I knew it was time. He's been around for just over 10 years and impacted lives of a lot of people. He even got to meet Jane in PEI... I've shed lots of tears over the past few days, and I'll miss him dearly... its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-22336850896735054562018-11-16T18:22:00.001-04:002018-11-16T18:22:06.291-04:00Nov 16/18First off I want to send good, healing vibes to Canadian Saver.... One of the first blogs I ever read and she is truly an inspiration in every way! :)<br />
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And a big shout out to those who offered some sounds advice! Thanks again! Much appreciated!<br />
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Things are slowly improving on the information front... Not necessarily the news I was expecting, but at least there are answers. And a few tears were shed today out of frustration, but I dusted myself off and all is good. <br />
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B-Kat, I'm glad you had a strong Union. It does make thing easier. All I got from mine was a shrug and a SOL... So nice to see my union dues hard at work... Note the side of sarcasm here.<br />
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The money situation is slowly getting sorted out... My goal is to have the over draft paid off in about 6 months or so... and I will work on the others slowly and steadily. Plus I have 1 car payment left at the end of the month and then it's mine! :) My goal is to keep it for another 5 years... ( Dating a mechanic is a good thing)... Plus he's taught me a lot about cars, which is another bonus!<br />
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I'm keeping optimistic and I've been thinking about picking up my paint brushes again and just starting some where with it... I did make a crystal tree with amythest and another green stone last month with copper wire from my dad... It's rough, but I used a purple rock from PEI and I smile when ever I see it. Now, i just need a few pain free days to get the house scrubbed and I'd be set!<br />
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Oh, and did I mention that we are having another snow storm? This is the third one so far! Yep, that's right third and we still have 5 weeks or so til the winter solstice! I took my mother out yesterday, and did some grocery shopping. I'm well stocked, lol Can't beat frozen veggies for 2.00/bag :) <br />
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I'm truly blessed, I'm happy and I have a roof over my head...<br />
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<br />its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-21448780552209810452018-11-08T15:01:00.000-04:002018-11-08T15:01:39.652-04:00Nov 8/18Ok people,<br />
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Here's the sad scary truth...<br />
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Things suck right now... I'm struggling at work with the return and the equipment issues... One person tells me one thing, someone comes and says, nope, can't happen, and a third contradicts both and says both previous answers are wrong, here's the reality. (according to them).. and I'm still not getting things answered! AWK... I'm waiting for answers from HR, payroll and my immediate work place. <br />
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I'm waiting for answers from the insurance company... Again they'll tell me two or three different things, and no clear answers...<br />
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I'm broke... There's a serious deficit in my account called over draft. LOL I have to laugh, because if I start to cry, I'm not going to stop. I have one savings grace and my car will be paid in full at the end of the month... But I'm still broke right now. I do have food to eat, gas in my car and a roof over my head and people who love me... The bills will get paid somehow... They always do...<br />
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I so get the importance of an emergency fund now. I never thought that anything like this would ever happen to me, and it did. I've worked for 20 years and I'm in the hole for sick time, vacation time... It scares the shit out of me the mess that I'm in, but I know that some how this mess will get straighten out.<br />
<br /> Christmas will be minimal this year. It's the time spent together that counts. I'm going to have to work over the holidays this year for the first time in about 15 years. <br />
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Should have I done things differently? Absolutely! Did I learn lessons! You bet! Have I helped educate others about the mess and how things could be done in another way for them. Oh yeah, I've been a go to guide for a few others caught in a mess too! ( all long term employees on sick EI due to accidents outside the work place).<br />
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I do have blessings to count... LG has been a great support, as has my mom and real friends... I have food to eat, a car to drive, two dogs who love me, a warm and safe home, a DD who I love dearly...<br />
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And you dear reader! Thanks for reading my rant... I feel 100% better now writing all my worries down and leting them go! Thank you!<br />
<br />its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-39066734517054623632018-09-22T14:52:00.000-03:002018-09-22T14:52:24.238-03:00Change in the season...Depending on where you are in the world, today is the first day or Autumn ( Or tomorrow depending on your calendar LOL) or spring...<br />
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I love the fall. Soups, wool socks, bon fires, pumpkins, falling leaves, the change in the air, and the color! Red, yellow, orange, and add in some purple and I'm a happy girl!<br />
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Today is the first day in a very long time that I can honestly say that I feel like myself. It's been a long time coming. My sprained ankle has healed really well, they've discovered that I had given my other foot some micro tears in the tendon and a cyst has formed inside the tendon and that's whats caused the pain and swelling in that foot! Note to self and others don't hold the brake so hard while being hit :). <br />
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I've started working a shift a week at the restaurant again, and it feels good. I'm in constant motion, which is what my body needs. Standing still for long periods of time, not cool at all... I'm supposed to start a gradual return to my ft job, but there are a few things that need to happen and so far they haven't. So, I'm being patient and will continue to play their game...<br />
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The dogs are always a source of entertainment. My darling puppy boy is struggling... I'm waiting to see if DD will be home in a few weeks, and she's asked me to wait to have him put to sleep when she's home. He's still a happy boy, but it's hard watching him move and hearing him breath by times. He's been such a blessing to my life and others... :( I know that it's going to be a very hard day all around...<br />
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LG is good. He's busy working and he and DB are working on their snowmobiles today. they're being proactive and doing the work while its warm out.<br />
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I'm going to go and do a few more things, but I won't over do it, as I know I'll pay for it over the next few days. Happy Fall! its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8604474723759463712.post-53234691672287490912018-09-06T10:57:00.002-03:002018-09-06T10:57:52.238-03:00Sept 6/18Hello everyone. It's hard to believe that the summer is gone and school is back in session. I'm due to start back to work slowly on Oct 1. I may have a slight hindrance to that date, as I tripped and sprained my left ankle yesterday. It's not broken, ( I was in and out of the ER in less than 2 hours yesterday), but it's sore!<br />
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I've been just plugging along with my life, working on getting things fixed and figuring out what to do next. I feel like these past months like there is some kind of change coming but what it is I have no idea! I just keep doing my thing.<br />
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Being on EI has been interesting to say the least. Not for the faint of heart that's for sure. Patience is required, and explaining over and over what's the reason has not been easy. I'll get through this.<br />
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Everyone is doing good and have had a good summer. I'm looking forward to the cooler weather and hanging out with the family this month. its me, samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03521920330817697784noreply@blogger.com2