About me

Hatred Begets Hatred, Love Begets Love

/ admin

My dear blogging family and friends,

It’s been too long…welcome back.

I’ve neglected writing on my blog for absolutely eons. There are many reasons why. First, I’ve been super busy raising our last four/three children. I’m wanting to be present for every moment since I know all too well how fast children grow up and leave the nest. But another reason under all that everyday busyness has been my lack of faith and hope. I’ve not had to heart to write and certainly didn’t want to share anything unless it was uplifting or could inspire.

The world is becoming increasingly chaotic and hate filled and it’s not just out there; it’s seeped into my little community. Since Covid hit five years ago I think some people have lost their sense of humanity as increasingly there is this mentality of us, verus them. Instead of a “we are all in this together,” thought process, there is this devisive rhetoric creating societal havoc.

People seem to be more aggressive and angry. All I have to do is head out onto the road and everyone seems to be competing for their space and want to be the first through any traffic stop. What I dislike most is seeing hate speech on people’s vehicles. Therefore I have struggled with ways to encourage myself, let alone summon up some words of hope to send out into the ether.

But as this week closes I caught a glimpse of something I wanted finally to share, but first a story, if you can bare it. Grab a cup of tea/coffee and join me for a visit.

This has been a tough week for me. Memories from the past are clashing with the current moments we are all experiencing in September 2025.

To illustrate I must take you back in time….almost a quarter of a century ago now.

I remember September 11, 2001 like it was yesterday. The kids went off to school still excited about their new teachers and classmates. I took our youngest little guy Harrison to preschool and then returned home in good spirits as it was a beautiful blue sky day with only a touch of crispness in the air. I returned home a bit after 9 a.m. poured myself a cup of tea and dumped a load of laundry on the family room floor preparing to start my daily housework.

Before I had folded one thing though I turned on the T.V. On the screen, and on every channel unbelievable terror was being filmed live in New York. I watched in horror the aftermath of the first Twin Tower being hit and then still trying to understand what was happening right in front of me I watched another plane crash into the second tower. Black smoke filled the blue sky.

I couldn’t assimilate what I was seeing and the reporters on the ground were as stunned and shocked as I. The world stood still and would forever be changed.

The days and weeks following didn’t bring any light to that event. What could cause people to enact such a horrendous, murderous act on so many innocent people? I remember walking around feeling like a dark cloud had covered the earth. Then two weeks later I discovered I was pregnant. I was thrilled of course but the joy I felt was dulled with the knowledge that our world was no longer a safe place. We were living in the days following what would be called the 911 terrorist attack.

How could I bring a new baby into this world?

Throughout that fall the cloud I felt didn’t lift although deep down there was a tiny piece of joy as I thought about the new life growing in my womb. Just as I was about to share the happy news with our family and friends I went in for a routine ultrasound only to find out our baby’s heart beat had stopped. In that darkened ultrasound room I dropped into a black abyss of pain and grief. The only thing that kept me tied to totally losing it was the fact I had four other children to care for everyday. (I know blessed right….and yet a part of me had died) Yet these children needed me. They needed a mother to feed them, to get them to school, to take them to their activities, to bath them, dress them, read to them, in general keep all the balls in the air. Looking back I think someone else must have been going through the motions.

During that late fall, (I had to be admitted to hospital for an induced miscarrage on Nov 29th) throughout the Christmas season and winter I was in a state of deep depression.

Then in February my sister C asked if I wanted to join her and her yoga students for a retreat at a nearby Buddhist Monastery. This was the first time I felt any light. Even though I seldom left our children, I told her yes because I knew she was throwing me a life line. In the weeks leading up to our long weekend getaway in April, I started to meditate. Every day I would sit longer and longer. I would focus on my breath while guiding white light to surround and embrace me. I started walking and a few times I hiked the moutain behind our house where I sat overlooking the lake below me. A sense of deep gratitude for all I had been given started to break the darkness. I could feel as Leonard Cohen once sang;

“Ring the bells that still can ring

Forget your perfect offering

There is a crack, a crack in everything

That’s how the light gets in.“

I started practicing some yoga too. I knew I needed to keep up with my sister’s yoga group so as I got stronger and more supple, I started feeling my body connect with my spirit. I was coming back to the world. A crack had opened.

My husband was great about my short trip away. He knew a part of me was vacant and I needed this trip away. The day to leave finally arrived. As I packed my personal hygiene items in my weekend bag I wondered if I should pack some sanitary supplies because my period was late. That’s weird I thought and then I started feeling my breasts and realized they were sensitive. On a whim I took a pregnancy test. I continued to pack though and only casually glanced at the results knowing in my heart like so many other times what I would see. I guess that is why I collasped onto the floor holding tightly to the test strip.

I was shocked to see two bright pink lines.

How had this happened? After more than 18 months of using every fertility stategy I knew to conceive, this baby had just slipped in so silently. So gracefully. While at the monastery I contemplated how miracles happen in our lives and I discovered for me anyway they come when I let go. When I surrender. When I’m grateful for all I’ve been given.

It’s in that sacred place when small seeds are often planted.

Just before Christmas of that year our daughter Grace was born.

The picture above is in our front yard, next to our little pond where roses bloom and our Buddha man welcomes those to our home. Seeing this picture reminds me of the Buddhist retreat I attended after a dark winter of grief. It was over two decades ago now when I went to meditate and practice yoga carrying the tiny beginnings of our beautiful daughter Grace Elizabeth. (She was around 31/2 in this picture)

Above are our eight children. From Left to right, Harrison, Grace, William, Alyssa, Clark, Kathryn, Mitchell, and Victoria.

I’m sharing this story today because it was 24 years ago this month when darkness filled our world and here it is almost a quarter of a century later and our world has not progressed further. We are still living in a world where peace is but a dream. The war that Russia started three and a half years ago with Ukraine continues. There is currently a terrifying war between Israel and Hamas. The Palestinian people are literally starving to death in front of our eyes.

Eruptions of unrest ring out through the world. And this week, closer to home, south of our border another act of hatred recently occurred.

A few days ago, the day before the anniversary of 911, an American conservative political activist, and Trump supporter, Charlie Kirk, was assassinated while hosting a Utah college event for Turning Point USA, an organisation he had co-founded. I knew who Charlie Kirk was as I had sought out some of his social media podcasts. I wanted to understand his views and figure out why he was so charismatic with the right wing younger aged Trump base. He was almost the same age as our oldest son Clark.

I watched without judgment at first but I abhored most of his belief’s and had a hard time understanding how he could call himself a Christian. And yet I had the self awareness to realize this was hypocritical of me since I try to follow Christ’s teachings and one is to judge not! And yet, I’m human. I disliked his negative words towards people of colour, the non white immigrants who were in the U.S., his strong feelings towards women’s rights, (their bodies particularly) and his hateful feelings towards the LGBTQ+ community. I was raised in a Christian home with the belief that Jesus came to teach us to love everyone. EVERYONE!!!….without questioning their colour, race, gender, or whom they loved. I guess that is why I could not understand his views. But I was conflicted because I knew I was judging him.

I believe in the right for free speech however and even if I don’t share his views I’m glad I live in a world where we aren’t prosecuted for sharing our thoughts and ideas. My first thought when I heard the news he had been shot and killed was extreme sadness that our world had again darkened. That our world had created another person who had such hatred in their hearts that they felt compelled to kill another person and while yes, Charlie Kirk was confrontational and right out there with his views making him a clear target, he was just doing what he believed was his mission. I was also extremely sad for his family, his wife, his two children. I know what it’s like to lose a father at a young age and it alters everything. My second thought was why are guns so easy to obtain in the States. Why aren’t there more restrictions? I understand on this same day there was a school shooting in Colorado that was lost under the news of Charlie’s death. It’s becoming so commonplace in the States to have a school shooting that it almost doesn’t get notated.

But guns almost seem to go with Americans like Apple Pie at Thanksgiving so I doubt if anything will change after Charlie’s death.

It’s been a tough week full of emotion as I remember the terrorist attack on the World Trade Towers on September 11, 2001, as I remember the joy I felt finding out I was pregnant 24 years ago and then the bleak depression I dropped into after the loss of our baby. I thought of the preceding years and how not much has changed on this earth.

But it’s also been a time of light and joy for me since our daughter Grace was born.

She and I have had a difficult year as she is almost through University and is flexing her wings and starting to fly. It’s normal to have a disconnect while raising an older child and often it can be extremely disruptive as children move out into the world to start their own lives. Sadly, many mothers take the brunt of the break when their children leave the nest. However, as challenging as it is, I wouldn’t have wished it any other way and missed the opportunity to watch a miracle be born. A miracle grow and inspire me to believe in the goodness that can be created in this world when we let go, surrender and have faith.

She has also taught me that struggle with others can be our greatest gift and blessing.

With this mindset I’m moving forward and trusting light will shine through the crack. This is why I decided to blog today. Finally I can share a story and shine a bit of light out into the world. We don’t have to agree with others and their views; the people they choose to love or the paths they choose to walk, but if we want any peace on this planet we need to let go and have faith. We need to be grateful for our differences and celebrate where we can come together. It’s with the hope for humanity which will move us forward. How did the events of this week affect you? Did you go down memory lane too? Whatever road you took I hope you can join me in opening up that crack and place a few seeds of love in the wall. Maybe with time something incredibly beautiful will grow.

My blog title was hatred begets hatred. I fear Charlie Kirk sprinkled hatred in many of his speeches and as such that hate, like karmic retribution he was killed.

That is why I’m encouraging the opposite. Love begets Love and boy we need that more as 2025 comes to a close.

To conclude this blog post I thought it would be appropriate to share a video John Lennon wrote called, “Instant Karma, (We all Shine On) I find it also interesting that John also was killed by gun violence. Will we ever learn?

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

“Happy Together”~White Chocolate & Cranberry Cookies

/ admin

My dearest friends and family,

Thank you so much for visiting today. There’s a lot going on in the world lately and I don’t know how you are responding to it. Are you drawn into this moment of history or are you minding your own business? Whatever road you are taking and wherever you live and call home, I hope you know we are better together. This post is a bit political so if you just want a great cookie recipe and hear a bit of music, scroll to the bottom. If you want to hear some of my thoughts and what has been happening around our household keep reading.

Whatever you choose, I’m happy you’re HERE!

February has arrived. The month of love. Winter if swiftly passing, although if you step outside today, you wouldn’t believe it as it’s minus 9 degrees celsuis. (15.8 Fahrenheit for my American friends) However you measure temperature, it’s REALLY freezingly, BRRRR, cold here. Yet, each day brings a bit more sunshine. Even on our our most frigid days I’m trying to remember we’re only a hop, skip and a jump away from our trees budding out in leaf and our flowers blooming brilliantly.

January flew by in a flurry since our kids were super busy in all sorts of activities. Last weekend we took our twin daughters to a basketball tournament out of town. They played one game on Friday night and easily won it. Before they got too big for their britches, I reminded them that the team they played against came from a town much smaller than our community. Hey context matters.

(Victoria (left) Kathryn (right) Their team is called the “Lakers,” and if you look in the background of their gym you can see a bit of the mural painted which depicts our Lake Monster mascot.)

The next game they played was with a school from a much larger community that ours. Also, I found out later that this particular school is known for their strong sports participation and they are often found at our Provincial play offs. Our girl’s basketball team is made up of ten girls, which is two lines. However, two of those ten are newbies. When and “if” they catch the ball, they look as if an Alien baby has accidently landed in their midst. Shocked! During one game I heard one of their moms yell out, “Dribble,” when their daughter caught the ball and had a stunned look on her face. (Having said that though, in every game they improve. They are valuable players!)

Also, I have to share our coaches philosophy that everyone gets the same playing time. (I love that!) That’s how you develop a strong team. Suffice to say, we really only have eight player who feel comfortable playing the game. With that context, I’ll take you back to the second game experience. This team was bigger. They had fifteen players, three full lines, and several of the girls were not only physically broader, but way taller than our girls.

Okay, back to the game.

Even though I was nervous, one always hopes the underdog (our team) has a shot, but early on my hopes were doused as the opposing team demonstrated a skill level superior to our girls. What made me sit up taller though was even though we were outmatched, our girls never gave up. They tried again and again to make plays and baskets, but by the last quarter they were down 15 to 50. A few of the opposing players were really tough too. I mean physically tough. We picked out a handful of them who shoved and pushed and once even purposely tripped one of our players.

Our girls had heart though, dug deep and played clean.

Then right in front of David and I, who were sitting centre court, about three bleacher seats up, we witnessed the opposing team’s, Number 25, viciously push our smallest girl.. This wasn’t a little push. This was a huge shove meant to hurt and take down one of our players. Also, Number 25 had this determined hate filled look on her face as she shoved with all she had. I was just so horrified that I yelled, “REALLY, really, you have to do that when you’re up 35 points!!!” Number 25 looked up at me and scowled. Her face was giving me the “FU” look. A foul was meted out, but when she went off the court I observed her two coaches giving her a big high five.

They had huge smiles on their faces.

I was disgusted.

Yes, I know basketball can be a rough game. It can get physical but this was above and beyond what I would call good sportmanship. I’m sure this team went on to win the tournament. Our girls came fourth out of eight teams. Victoria also won player of one of the games. On the drive home before our girls fell into a deep sleep, we rehashed the various games. We talked about this number twenty five player, and the general roughness and attitude of the coaches. We all agreed that winning at all cost wasn’t worth it.

Did this other team realize the optics? In the future whenever I think of this school I will remember this game and how they played.

Is that the reputation they want?

When our girls go out to play I always give them a pre game, mom talk on the drive. It goes something like this; “play hard, use your intellect as much as your skill. Be respectful of your coaches. Support your team with a positive attitude. MOST IMPORTANT, remember winning at all cost is not really winning.

Being a good sport is the sign of a true winner.

Victoria above with the t shirt she won for being best player of the game and the tournament she won it in

(below is a video I took of one of our girls first games earlier in the season. It’s in our gym and you can see a bit more of our lake monster in the background. Victoria is (number 12) the one grabbing the ball and getting 2 points. Kathryn (number 8) is right behind her giving her some support afterwards) That’s me cheering too!

It was getting dark when we started driving home from the tournament. The girls huddled together under a big fleece blanket and fell asleep like they used to do when they were little babes after a big day out. I was glad they were sleeping when we started climbing the mountain pass. Snow was driving hard towards us and while David didn’t say so at the time, he later told me he was having a hard time seeing the edge of the highway.

At the top of the pass we saw a semi truck jack knifed in the ditch on the opposite side of the highway. It was touch and go there for about one hour. I was hardly breathing. I was holding onto the edge of my seat and praying hard. Finally, we started down the other side of the pass and the snow started to let up. By the time we hit the valley no snow was falling at all.

When we walked into our house at last I just said, “thank you to God and my angels”

Throughout that trip I kept thinking about the airplane/helicopter accident in Washington (and the medic plane crash in Philadephia too) that had killed so many beautiful people only days before. Among them, so many talented young figure skaters. That tradegy just made me cry. What made me cry even harder though was the speech during a White House press conference Trump and his incompetent, unqualified, unkind, administrators, gave shortly after the crash. The fact that he brought DEI (Diversity/Equity and Inclusion) into the aftermath of this tragic loss made me mad. So mad!

Did he think of the optics? Did he realize he and his team just appeared hate filled? During his election he and his supporters would wear those red hats that said, “Make America Great Again.” Is this his idea of GREATNESS? Having no compassion for those who had died in the accidents or the families grieveing their loss. When he was talking about DEI etc, they were still searching for their bodies in the Potomic.

Nothing was more obvious to me while listening to this news briefing that America has lost her North Star of morality and good ethics. Where was the compassion? At least her chosen leader didn’t exhibit any. I was absolutely appaulled when Pete Hegseth, (the new Secretary of Defence) said, from now on only the BEST and the BRIGHTEST would be in command, I was thinking, “how in the heck did the Republicans confirm your appointment?” A former Fox T.V. host with a horrid past!. For that matter, how does someone who is not only a felon, a convicted sexual abuse offender and a businessman, who has bankrupted numerous companies, become the President?

If the new administration represent America’s best and brightest, I’m genuinely concerned for their future as a country.

ANYHOO…..SORRY for my mini rant but yeah, when we decided to travel out of town on wintery roads, those accidents were on my mind as were the reaction to those crashes from the President and his, shall I say it, “goons.”

When we woke up on Sunday safe in our beds I was still saying thank you. David made the kids waffles with berries and we turned on the news. That’s when we heard that President Trump, the “Make America Great Again” guy, had announced he was placing a 25% tariffs on all our exports to the States. (10% percent for our oil and energy products) We knew he’d threatened this move many times during his run for office. I think many of his MAGA supporters thought tariffs on another country meant it would hurt us.

They loved that! (this tells you a lot about the people who voted him in)

So yeah, that’s how we heard he was really going through with it.

As I watched the news, all I could think about was how much he was like Number 25,.

He wants to win at all cost.

People like this are bullies. They get their power from fear.

If you want to read the definition of a bully; “a person who habitually seeks to harm or intimidate those whom they perceive as vulnerable.”

Hmmmm….sounds about right.

What is the profile of a bully?

“Research finds that bullies have a distinct psychological makeup. They lack prosocial behavior, are untroubled by anxiety, and do not understand others’ feelings. They exhibit a distinctive cognitive feature, a kind of paranoia: They misread the intentions of others, often imputing hostility in neutral situations.”

What do you think? Does that sound like the current leader in the States?

And you know where bullies get their energy? From fear, and attention. Are we going to give him that? I’m thinking not, and that I need to stop watching the news! At least the biased news.

Anyway, back to our little household.

We had a long talk about the pending tariffs during our Sunday dinner. Even though our kids are only 13 and 15 they demonstrated intelligent thoughts and insights regarding the political situation in the States and how it may impact our country and the world. Also, their oldest sister is with us currently. She is well educated, and contributed in her own intuitive way to our converstation. During our dinner I wondered if they would look back at this moment in history, like I did when I was their age, and the Watergate affair was happening with President Nixon at the time. What I find interesting however is we covered those events in our Socials class when I was in grade eight. I can remember our teacher getting us to research what was happening and we had a debate where we all learned a lot. When we ask our children if they talk about anything going on currently in their world or particularly in the States they said it’s only “crickets,” from their teachers.

Times have sure changed!

Our children tell us that they do have classmates that think Trump is Great. They think our Conservative, Maple Magas are great. I’m sure they are learning these views from their parents and social groups.

I guess this is another reason we encourage our children to obtain a University Education where they can become critical thinkers. I want them to learn about history, sociology, psychology, science, to name only a few important studies.

The next morning the kids went off to school and while I was cleaning up from breakfast and folding a load of laundry I watched the news. (I know, not the best use of my time) Tariffs were the only thing people were discussing in Canada and in the States. What I was encouraged to see was Canadians were unified in their “Hell No,” thoughts and we were coming together. It reminded me in so many ways of our girls recent basketball tournament.

While watching the news…..

.

I heard some of our snowbirds who travel down to Florida and Arizonia for the winter were putting their condos on the market or coming back home in their motor homes. Others were cancelling their vacation trips planned for the States and choosing Mexico, Spain and Portugal instead. We certainly won’t be going to Disney World now!! Also, our son’s jazz band is planning a trip to Idaho this spring and sadly we told our son, “sorry, but we don’t support countires who bully their own people, not to mentiion put tariffs on friends.”

The tariffs hadn’t even begun and all over Canada people were sharing what to boycott and what to buy. For instance, no to Florida oranges and orange juice and yes to Okanagan apples. No to American alcohol and yes to Canadian beer and wine. And for those of you American readers, we dont all live in a cold climate up here….ha…. we happen to live in a hot and arid valley that grows amazing grapes. Wineries are everywhere. Also, I hear although Kentucky Bourbon is lovely, it’s now being shunned. Even more since it comes from a RED State which voted the DJT into office.

In our own household, ever since Trump was elected we’ve stopped shopping at Walmart, which is an American chain. Their reputation in our books got even worse when they were some of the first companies to get on the anti DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) bandwagon. Also, when I saw Steve Bezos standing in the front row at Trump’s inauguration I told my family we were done with Amazon. Ever since Covid we’ve been big Amazon purchasers but no more. Hey, the same with Mark Zuckerberg. I used to check my FaceBook daily but I’m done with that now and I’m going to figure out how to delete my accounts (I have two)

We are also down on anything Elon Musky related; Tesla, Twitter/X, SpaceX…..let’s just say Billionaires who just want more money and power are not in our most liked list. Especially when they go into the Treasury Department with their tech muskrats and shut down USAID which helps the poor and sick all over the world. (btw, if you Google the web site for this group, it’s currrently been deleted….so yeah, anyone who would hurt the innocent and needy in the world is not only a bully but is evil)

So yeah, we were digging in for the long haul.

Then Tuesday came. The Stock Market in the States started to plummet and Trump and his, “NOT the BEST and the BRIGHTEST,” caved. The tariffs are now paused for 30 days.

I could go on and on with regards to my feelings towards the new U.S. administration but in the blink of history this will go down as a low point for the United States, if you can call them that, as I’ve never seen a more divided country. They are facing a constituional crisis at the moment and I believe a coup is happening in Washington right now.

You know what’s really fascinating though, here in Canada ever since he signed that Executive Order to put tariffs on our country it’s maybe caused a reverse effect to what he was expecting.

Did we cower in fear? Hell No!

We are now, more than ever, TOGETHER! Happy together! And you know what else, while he hates DEI, we are a country built on diversity, equity and inclusion. Although we aren’t perfect up here and we’ve cause generational trauma to the indigenous peoples, they’ve taught us how to be better people and I’d like to think we are viewed as a good people in the world.

Further more, we aren’t going to “bend the knee” in FEAR, which is what bullies thrive on. No we are not going to let the lower energy of fear remain with the bullies and allow our love for our country and others guide us.

And one final thought before I share my White Chocolate and Cranberry cookie recipe with you, is a video I hold close to my heart from Kamala Harris who said, “the strength of a leader is who you lift up, not who you beat down.” I guess that says it all. Why the American people didn’t vote her to be their leader, I will never know. Was it because she was a woman? Was it because she wasn’t white? Whatever their reasons, I hope they are happy with the leader they have. Sadly, I know many Americans do not resonate with who is in power right now and to those I say, get out and fight for what you believe in. Be happy Together!!! Here are her inspiring words;

Beautiful words of lifting others up.

That is the Strength of a LEADER! and while Kamala may not be in power right now in the States, I’m holding onto her words. I hope you are too!

In my small way, that’s what this blog is about. And feeding you. HA! Last week my sisters and I had a video chat and as we were talking I was pulling these cookies out of the oven. My oldest sister Bonnie asked for the recipe so my dear sis, this is for you. Also, I wrote this post for ALL my friends and family. I’ve been keeping my feelings close to my chest ever since the election. I haven’t wanted to talk politics. I haven’t wanted to give it energy. I frankly have been so sad and let down by the people who voted Trump into office.

I keep asking myself why they didn’t see who he was. Maya Angelou said, “When a person shows you who they are, believe them!” And if they truly heard the hateful things he was always saying, why would they vote him in. Especially the Christian people. I will never understand how a Christian who follows Christ’s teachings about loving your neighbour and giving to the needy, could vote for someone who talks about rounding up illegal immigrants like they are animals or putting tariffs on your allies. (What I find most hypocrital is when the so called Christians wear crosses at their necks and talk about rounding up illegals or evicting the people from their own communities, “Gaza.”

There must be something so horribly broken in these people. Maybe they have generational hatred which they haven’t been able to work through. Whatever the case, there is no excuse for spreading hate and racism in the world. Especially after the horrors we witnessed during the Second World War with the Jewish people.

But I’m not going to dwell any longer in this place and give it energy. We need to rise above it and remember…..

Love overcomes everything.

Let’s make some cookies and go out into the world and share them. Take a plate to your neighbours. Talk to them. Find out what their views are. Find your community of like minded people. We are happy together when we lift each other up. Hey, and if you stay around to the bottom of this post, you’ll be able to listen to a bit of music. Our kids playing “Happy Together,” during another difficult time in history, our Covid pandemic which taught us a lot about how important it is to stay together to keep people safe and healthy.

White Chocolate and Cranberry Cookies

Ingredients

11/4 cups sugar

1 1/4 cups firmly packed brown sugar

1 1/2 margarine or butter softened….I use 3/4 margarine and 3/4 butter

2 teaspoon vanilla

3 eggs

4 1/4 cups all purpose flour

2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ginger (AMAZING!)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 to 1 1/2 cups white chocolate

1 to 1 1/2 cups dried cranberry

Optional: Pecans or Walnuts to top the cookie

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degree F.

In a large bowl beat both sugars and butter until light and creamy.

Add eggs one at a time. Mix well. Add vanilla

In a medium bowl, Add flour, baking soda, ginger and salt. Mix well.

Add flour to the sugar and butter mixture.

Stir in the chocolate and dried cranberries until well combined.

Drop dough by rounded tablespoon onto a ungreased cookie sheet.(2 inches apart)

Top with pecan or walnut.

Bake in 375 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes….I make my cookies larger so they take 12 mins until they are golden brown.

Yields 6 dozen….they freeze beautifully but boy they taste good frozen and they don’t last long!!!

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Below: A Flash into the past~ our kids, Will, Kate and Tori playing, “Happy Together,” (during our homeschool Covid year)

A final word, for my American friends, and I know I have a few who have followed this blog, if my words resonate with you and you are feeling fearful…… please stay strong, you are not alone. Find your people. Use your voices. Walk in peace sharing your views. Talk to your officials. I will be praying for you and our world.

Thanks again for visiting today.

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

Do Something

/ admin

My mom was born in Oakland, California in 1926. She was an American. I often wonder “what if?”

What if my mom’s family hadn’t emigrated to Canada. I’d be an American right now.

And if I were an American, I’d have a bumper sticker on our family van tonight with the words,

“Vote for Freedom. Vote for Kamala Harris!”

Even though I’m Canadian, after watching the final night of the Democratic National Convention this evening (btw, I watched the RNC too) and after hearing Kamala’s acceptance speech for the nomination to be the U.S. President, I wondered, “what can I do?” Then I thought of the power of words and how far reaching they are. Words can inspire. Words can lift people up and drop them down to the darkest depths. I wondered what I could write that could inpsire others to join me in my belief that Kamala will turn a new page in U.S. history and the world will be better for it.

I started writing and these are a few of my thoughts.

We are not just Americans or Canadians, or wherever you call home. We are global citizens. And before that we were souls who have come to earth to experience free will. The only authentic compass we have is our heart. That’s why when we see goodness we cry. That’s why when we observe a demonstration of love towards others, it lifts us up and helps to make us better people.

When we listen to our heart it knows the path we need to take.

What I would encourage my neighbours down south to do is to listen to their heart when their leader speaks. Are they saying things that are respectful and kind? Are they being compassionate and understanding? Are they honest? Do they have integrity? Would you hold them up as a role model for your children to admire and follow? Do they respect their fellow man?

I realize there is nothing I can say to change other people’s viewpoints but I want to be part of the movement that does something and so here I am asking, if you are an American and are on the fence regarding the upcoming vote, or worse yet, planning not to vote at all, I implore you to listen to your heart. Follow the path it tells you to take on election day.

I know I’m not alone in watching the choice you make. The world is watching. Make us proud and remember Free Will is a precious thing. Use it wisely. Let love and light guide you.

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

Make the “good” choice!

Listening to her made me proud to be a neighbour to my American cousins and I hope they will do the right thing in November. I wonder if many American’s who voted Trump in 2016 had the self awareness of how denegrated he made the country look for the four years he was in office. It was a stupid drama show.

Not a day went by during those four years when there was something chaotic happening in the White House or something rude or disrepectful coming out of Trump’s mouth. I’m still shocked that he has not been convicted of inciting a riot on January 6th. How can it be that so many people believed the election results were not valid? How brainwashed they must have been after years of lies. I was so sad for the American people and I don’t know why some of them want to go back to that. THAT! I keep hearing Americans talk about the economy as if their current administration has huge power over that and all I can say is, “are you aware of what is happening all over the world since Covid and since the war in Ukraine?” None of our economies are doing great…it’s a global issue so wake up and smell the roses. Do you really want four more years of racist remarks, bullying tactics and fear mongering?

Also, I always thought Americans, especially the Conservatives believed in the power of family but how can they vote someone in office who has cheated on his wife, (more than once) been found guilty of sexual charges and also was recently charged with fraud. How about his bankrupties? How can you think anyone who has these values, lead your country with honesty and integrity? But maybe the values in the States are changing….or not.

After watching the DNC this evening, I witnessed many Americans who want someone they can trust. Someone who holds up those American values that the world admires. (or used to) Anyway, after Michele Obama spoke the other night and said, “Do something,” I thought, “I can write my thoughts down on my blog,” and while I’m sure my words wouldn’t sway a republican to vote differently in November, because I know many only vote party and are brainwashed by Trump, I’d like to think those on the fence will listen to their gut and vote with their heart. Because when you vote from your heart, you listen to higher part of yourself. The part that is kind. The part that is loving. I’m holding HOPE, that I may encourage even one person to vote for get out and vote for Kamala…..give her a shot. I know many have linked her to Biden but remember she hasn’t been President before and we don’t know what she will do….but we have watched the Trump show and it was scary. No going BACK!

Remember we are all global citizens (FIRST) in this world and we are all connected whether our leader believes that or not.

Vote for Kamala in November!

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

Silence on Mother’s Day

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We humans crave peace and quiet, yet we rally above it with a clamour of discontent, as we war among ourselves. It’s enough to make me shudder, and my teeth ache over the senselessness of all the chaos happening in our world. I’ve been thinking of this and also a story from my childhood and any serene moments that I’ve tried to shift my thoughts to instead, are disturbed by an inner turbulent dialogue. From a past muted mist, the following emerges like an incessant docudrama.

The first scene is me sitting in a dark basement apartment with furniture from the 50’s, but it’s January 1977. I’m six months away from graduating from grade twelve. I’m lonely, with only dead silence for company. In the next scene, I’m squirreled away in a bedroom with real grown up furniture and it’s 2024. Desperately I’m typing. I’ve been trying to write my memoir. It’s slow going but page by page it’s being written, despite the erupting cacophony from the floor above. Is there ever silence in this house? There is a knock, a head peaks in. I don’t look up but respond tersely, “I’m writing.” The door closes again. Perhaps, this story can only be written in the wee hours on Mother’s day. I wish I could sleep but sometimes I think, I just need to get it out or I’ll explode, so here I am finally, with the house breathtakingly still, typing my past away so I can finally fall back to sleep.

This story is dedicated to my mom. I wonder what she would make of it. 

Under our deck and next to our grape trellis, a family of Robins have built a cozy nest. I  didn’t notice it until I was doing some grape pruning and mama Robin surprised me when she flew out and away from her babies. Watching her leave took me way back and I wondered if my own mom had observed how mama birds made their babies fly, by kicking them out of the nest. Perhaps she may have thought that was a bit harsh. And with that mindset, when she became a mother and her fledgling babies, my three sisters and I were getting to the age of  flying, she decided it would be a good idea to leave the nest first. 

And not come back.  

I’ll never know if it was a conscious decision. Maybe it was just a convenient series of life events and circumstances that created each leaving occurance. Kind of like when I was about to turn 16 and apply for my driver’s licence, when interestingly enough my parents decided to sell their second car.  I never learned to drive until I was out on my own. But I digress, whether the whole leaving thing was well thought out or not, it all felt like abandonment to me. Obviously it still bothers me or I wouldn’t be lying awake writing it down. I won’t go into the details over each departure, but suffice it to say, when my own children were born, like a scratch on a record that ruins the music, my mother’s choice(s) made me sing another tune to my kids. With a reassuring rhythm I told them I’d always be there for them and they’d always have a home. 

I started singing that song thirty four years ago and since then, our house has gotten progressively louder and noisier as our eight children were born one by one, or in the case of our twins, two by two. Yes, booming bedlam would be an apt description for our household. Did I mention that along with the regular racket that comes from a family of ten, our kids all play(ed) several instruments between them? A typical day would begin as our oldest woke the household with a steady beat of scales played on the piano. This would go on for an hour before the school bus arrived. Then upon returning home, each would take up their respective instrument and violin, cello, drums and guitar chords could be heard spilling from all the various rooms.

Thankfully, flute, alto sax and bass guitar were mainly practiced at school and our daughter Grace, who took voice lessons, only ever sang in her bedroom. If I’d have been smart, I would have had them all play piano, ‘cause unlike a lot of instruments, it’s always in tune. Also, if I’d been thinking clearly I would have spaced our kids closer together, so I’d be living in a calm house at this time but no, like a crazy woman on a mission, I spaced them out to enjoy them fully and experience this whole messy motherhood gig to the hilt. Happy Mother’s Day to me! At this precise moment, we have five kids in the house. We were down to four, but then our oldest decided to return for a while.  

Being the oldest, she heard my song and dance routine longer than everyone else and I guess she took me at my word. Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad she’s back, but if there wasn’t enough commotion in our house, she has moved back home with two cats, one being extremely noisy. The word, caterwauling comes to mind when Emy’s insistent yowls echo through our four walls. Add that to the pandemonium my youngest twin daughter’s make on a regular basis, along with their teenage brother, and a Mack truck could drive through my kitchen at dinner time and I’d hardly notice. 

Lately in the wee hours of the morning when my bladder reminds me that yes, I did have eight children. I’m rewarded with a bit of hushed stillness as I lay back in bed and sigh. I could almost slip back into oblivion except my peace is disturbed when my monkey brain starts swinging on my upcoming todo list. Or in the case of this story that just wants to be written. There are times I wish I was a painter instead. I’ll have to ask my sister C, if she wakes up in the early hours to paint a picture. Wait, actually, I think she doesn’t even go to bed some nights as she paints into the wee hours.

Anyway… It’s times like this that I start counting the years until any possible tranquility will be mine and I almost laugh out loud.

Maybe this is why mom left us; to find some peace.

That’s when I also hear my husband’s imagined voice telling me, “Lee, you’ll have peace and silence when you’re dead.” Speaking of husbands, I could probably fall back to sleep easier if he weren’t lying next to me rhythmically breathing so peacefully beside me. It’s unnerving and incredibly annoying. I want to hit him and wake him up so I can sleep. But I don’t. Even the glow from my computer and the click, click, click of my typing doesn’t wake him. How lucky some people are I think. Somewhere in our house a phone is vibrating. A message is coming through and I think, “don’t people ever sleep?”

Taking slow relaxing breaths, I notice that our white bedroom curtains are lightening, and through our slightly opened window I hear a few early birds welcoming the day with happy chirps. I’m not amused, but I wonder if that isn’t my mama Robin singing wake up, wake up to her babies. I look at my illuminated Fit bit and see it’s now 4:30 am. It’s time to wrap up this story. 

Three more hours until I want to wake up. That is, if I ever get back to sleep. The weather has been unseasonably warm and I want to plant my vegetable garden. Digging in the dirt, even on Mother’s day is my happy place. A car drives by below our house and across the lake, a steady din from the highway is noticeable. Other people are awake and going places early on this Mother’s day. I want to go back to sleep but more mom thoughts come to mind. She’s been gone twelve years now. There are days when I wish I could just pick up the phone and hear her voice.  I have things I still want to ask her. Things I want to know.

My body starts feeling heavy under our weightless down comforter and any thoughts start wandering away with gentle ease. I’m typing fewer words and finally I close my computer lid and set it aside. I’m entering an empty vastness. A place where I am free. I’m home in silence and peace. I start to float up and up and away from this earthly body with any concerns or worry. Drifting off now the last thing I hear coming from deep in my heart on this Mother’s day are the words, 

“you are so loved my little bird.” 

I let those words be the last thing I hear. I know I will remember them upon waking and I will write them down. 

I love you too mom. Happy Mother’s Day!

Above, my mom with my three older sisters and my Dad’s parents, Bob and Flossie Clark. Below is my family, Mom, Dad and my sisters…I really like this picture because it’s one where my mom is holding me and she is so stunningly beautiful.

Above is a picture from one of the last birthdays we celebrated with my mom. Her birthday was often the first day of Spring, March 20th so while she is always in my heart, this time of year she is more so…and of course today on Mother’s day. Even when our moms may not be with us any longer, they are always with us. And finally, I’m able to put any sense of abandonment I felt when she left me in Grade twelve to rest. I’m at peace. I’ve written them down and let them go. As I have learned, being a mom is a tough job. I think my mom always did it with grace, dignity and lots of humour…oh and MUCH LOVE. She’s a tough act to follow!

Happy Mother’s Day mom!

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

Saying Goodbye to our Beloved Cat

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Ryuuki, or Yuuki, (YouKee) left this earth last Wednesday. (August 25, 2008- May 1, 2024)

Not being a stranger to losing loved ones, (my grandparents, my dad, my mom, other beloved pets) having to say goodbye to our cat Yuuki hit me like a ton of bricks, falling from the heavens. It’s not like we didn’t know this day was coming. In the last year, he’d been slowing down more and more, but it was still shocking how fast his condition deteriorated and how quickly we had to decide (with our vet’s advice) to let him go.

When I think of saying goodbye to Yuuki, the goodbye/birthday speech that the character Bilbo, from the “Lord of the Rings,’ gave comes to mind. In his speech, and before he puts the ring on and vanishes he says the following:

“First of all, to tell you that I am immensely fond of you all, and that eleventy-one years is too short a time to live among such excellent and admirable hobbits. I don’t know half of you half as well as I should like; and I like less than half of you half as well as you deserve.”

Yuuki was the most excellent and admirable cat! I wonder if he’d have said the same about us…his humans. We loved him dearly but I think he loved us even better and was so tolerate. He came into our busy home filled with five kids and before he was a year old our number 6th kid, Will was born. As if our house wasn’t noisy enough, two years later our twin daughters, Kathryn and Victoria arrived. As he welcomed our new family members, he also said fond goodbyes, as each of our older children left home. He never forgot them though and the moment he heard their voice, his ears would perk up and he’d love them as fiercely as if they hadn’t left. My oldest son Clark and I actually brought him home when my oldest daughter Alyssa was starting her first year of University in Victoria.

It all started with a simple Siamese kitten advertisement in the paper. Yes, in those days we got our news via our hometown paper.

The ad said he was an 8 week old, purebread Siamese, but I knew as soon as I saw him that he was not; purebread that is. His Seal point mom was very pretty though with light fur and very black points. The seller never told us who the father was and I never asked. Looking back, I don’t think I really cared too much. He was a cat that needed a home and we were a family that needed a cat. We loved his little spit fire personality from the get go. He had a sister too, but she was very skittish. She didn’t even come close to us as her brother checked us out and crawled all over us. I took one look at Clark and we nodded and smiled at each other. We knew we were bringing that ball of white fluff home.

I’m surprised I found a baby picture of Yuuki sleeping because he was ripping around our house from the moment we let him out of the cat carrier. One day he was running so fast from the laundry room (kitty litter room) and couldn’t slow down before he catapulted through the upstairs railing and down to the lower level. I thought for sure he’d be badly hurt but he picked himself up, looked a bit embarrassed and kept on going.

(Above, Yuuki looking down through that railing he fell through as a kitten)

Yuuki was a true family cat. He loved us all and spread his shining energy and love around.

Above, Will and Yuuki grew up together. Will was born in June 2009 and Yuuki turned one in August. In Yuuki’s last years, one of the things he liked best was when Will would give him a “BIG stretch,” extending his front legs up…I think it helped his old bones and muscles. Will was also the one to give him a nickname…”Skuuki.” Don’t ask me where that came from but to Will he was his little Skuuki boy.

When Alyssa came home from University that first summer (2009) she and Yuuki formed a tight bond. Alyssa was the one who actually named him. Since she was away at University I thought it would be nice for her to feel a connection to him so we asked her to find a name for him. She suggested Ryuuki, after she heard he was such a tiny little ball of big energy. Translanted Ryuuki means, “Little Dragon,” which is a lucky name in Chinese.

We were the lucky ones.

Below, Yuuki sleeping in one of his favourite laps in the summer of 2009…Alyssa’s.

Over the years, Yuuki was with us every season and every celebration. He loved them all and unlike some cats who may find crowds and chaos difficult, he was always right in there with us, for birthdays and Christmases. He especially liked family dinner, when in his later years, my husband David relented and let him sit on the window seat where our twins sat to eat dinner. He was so polite and never begged for food. He just wanted to be with the gang.

(From the time Yuuki was little he liked Christmas, the lights, the presents, the wrapping paper and everyone home to play with too…I think it was his favourite holiday for sure ever since he was a little guy)

When Yuuki arrived on the scene in the fall of 2008, he was not our only cat. In December of 2001, we adopted May Ling and her sister Misumi. Sadly, Misumi was killed in a car accident in Aug, 2007. After grieving her loss we decided to get a friend for May Ling the following year and that is when Yuuki came on the scene. Below, a lovely picture of May Ling. She was the sweetest cat. Gentle and very affectionate. I believe I have written about her loss on my blog. For many years she and Yuuki shared many family memories together. (Then one day, she just disappeared…we never knew what happened to her…I think that was hard on Yuuki and of course on us too)

(Yuuki and May Ling…they were good friends and it was always nice to have someone else to take a cat nap with)

I want to share a few pictures now, going down memory lane with Yuuki in our lives because I know he will remain in our family’s heart for the rest of our lives. It’s nice to have a place to visit and remember this most excellent and admirable cat!

Above, Mitchell loved Yuuki and was devastated to hear he had passed away. It’s tough when your family pet leaves and you aren’t able to say goodbye but Mitchell…he will always be in your heart so he hasn’t really left.

Like Mitchell, telling Harrsion that Yuuki had passed away was so difficult. He told me that when he read my note he had to leave work and let the news sink in as it was so hard. It is never easy saying goodbye to those we love, but maybe it helps to think of them as just away. Does that help?

Above, Grace and Yuuki studying psychology….he kept her company during many essay writing sessions in the last three years! Plus, she had the furry blanket he liked best in our house.

And when Victoria and Kathryn moved into their new room and we hadn’t even started decorating it yet, Yuuki claimed a new place to sleep. The last night he was alive he slept on this same bed with Victoria. In the last five days he was with us, he spread his love around sleeping with each of us, one last time. The Sunday before he passed, I spent the entire day in bed with him….him sleeping, curled up under my left arm while I ploughed through a novel and then watched a Netflix series. This is a comforting memory for me as I didn’t rush around on this day. Maybe we both sensed we needed to rest and connect one last time.

Yuuki wasn’t just a fair weather friend. If we were outside, he was outside. He loved scratching on the wooden retaining wall next to our drive way. He was with us in every season.

And he was with us in every celebration too…above he is in our Christmas photo…actually he made it into several over the years.

One of Yuuki’s favourite places of all time is to sit in front of the fireplace in our family room…and a close second was in the patio chairs down by the pool in the summer. Late on a summer’s day, as night was drawing near, if we were looking for him, he could often be found snoozing in one of the patio chairs sitting under the stars.

Last Christmas, as I was getting the attic room ready for Harrison to use when he came home, Yuuki was helping me make the bed. He liked it up in the attic too as it is a peaceful place. I remember taking this picture because I was wanting to get the picture of the room and send it off to Harrison saying, “come home soon, you’re room is all ready,” and Yuuki wanted to get in on the action too. He liked having his picture taken and he was such a handsome little furry guy.

Oh, to lay on the warm aggregate at our front door was another fav spot…and I think this day we must have been having a party and probably Victoria had given him the gift of a bow. He was always right in the middle of any party.

The above picture is one of the last ones I took of Yuuki this Spring. He loved soaking up the sunshine. I’m so glad that we had several nice days this Spring for him to revel in the warmth. You know as his human, I wished he had been able to live longer but as the vet told us, he was a super senior and he did so well to live such a healthy long life. Below, I found this sweet poem that sounds like it was written in Yuuki’s voice. In the 151/2 years that he lived with us, he was always there at the door. Saying hello and saying goodbye. He was always this joyous presence that I will miss so very much. I know the kids will too because one of his fav times of day was around 3 pm, when all the kids would come home from school and they would give him love and he’d be there too reminding them that he was so happy to see them.

And because I can’t cry anymore today, I have to close this post. But before I do, I just want to share a parting thought regarding beloved pets. If this helps you take it in, if you believe something else, let it go. This is just my thoughts on parting from our furry family members.

Once the heavy grief has washed all your tears away and the numbness is ebbing a bit too, open up your heart a bit. Pull on that golden cord that connects us all and call your pets name. I know he or she will be right there with you so happy to be acknowledged because even if they aren’t with us physically any longer, they never actually leave us. They remain always in our heart.

And that’s when you tell them once again, “you are so loved!”

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

The Healing Powers of Humour and Cinnamon Coffee Cake

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(Note: I am not a Doctor, nor am I a mental health provider…the following is just a layman’s experience dealing with depression)

This new year, 2024, started painfully for me. Literally. As I mentioned in a prior post, I had a bad ski accident at the end of our Christmas holiday so for the month of January I was moving around gingerly. I wasn’t sleeping well and was only functioning because we live in the era of ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Needless to say, I wasn’t laughing much. The more pain I felt, the more depressed I got. It was a vicious cycle. By the time I started feeling better physically, February had arrived, but my mental state was bleak.

And what was worse…

You know if you’re a mom, your kids pick up on every emotional nuance you display. I wish they’d pick their socks up as quickly but the little creatures are finely attuned to whatever energy is pulsing through the house. Sadly, depression is contagious. In our house, there wasn’t much laughter in January. Everyone seemed to be dragging energetically. By the time I started feeling better physically, I had to pull my mental state out of the gutter. Thankfully I hadn’t gone down that rabbit hole too deeply and I was able to improve my mood in a few weeks, but by that time I had to pull everyone else out with me.

If being under the weather, ha! at this time of year resonates with you at all, pour yourself a cup of something warm and read on….

What do you call it when a snowman ignores you?

(Answer at the end of this blog post)

I thought I’d share a few tips and thoughts on this topic as this time of year can be difficult for so many people living in the Northern part of our planet. Our days are short, the nights long and it’s cold. If you have little kids, it can be even worse as it takes 15 minutes to just bundle them up to head outside, but strangely, that’s one of the first things I’d suggest. I know it’s hard, but just getting out and breathing some crisp winter air can do wonders. The Earth does heal us if we let her. If you can’t get out for a walk, at least stand outside and just breathe. Stay out long enough to look for the beauty in the world, even if it’s all dark and grey. Or white. Now that’s a magical colour! What are the sounds in the air? Are there any birds in the trees? Or is there only peaceful silence? That can heal us too. We all need peace and beauty in our lives.

Next, what’s helped me move out of the darkness of depression was making sure I stayed hydrated and started eating better. January can be a difficult month for lots of people when they may have put on a few extra pounds from all the treats on display during the holiday season in December. Making sure we focus on drinking more water and eating some healthy whole food can improve one’s mood tremendously.

Another depression killer, ha! was starting to count my blessings. This was tough at first but nothing elevates my mood several degrees better than being grateful for something. At first, it may have been only my afternoon tea time. It’s not an over night fix though. It’s something you need to work at. What I’d recommend is at the end of the day writing down three things that went well for you. At first it may be just getting out of bed and having a shower. Maybe one of those things can be things you did for someone else that helped to shift their mood. Nothing improves our feeling of worth more than helping others. And I don’t think this is just a mom thing. It’s a people thing. Helping others, helps us! But if you just can’t think of anything, there is always these tried and true basics:

  1. I’m thankful I’m living on Earth and not Mars
  2. I’m thankful for my health….and if you don’t have that, be thankful for, pick one; hearing, sight, smell, taste, ability to walk; hopefully one applies….if you count more than one you are rocking!!!
  3. Family and friends, or a pet. Pets do wonders for our mental health. Look into their eyes and feel their fur…something magical happens.
  4. And I’ll add this one, I’m thankful to still be breathing. If you feel you can’t add this one to your daily gratitude list because you are so low in spirits, it may be time to visit your Doctor or call the Emergency mental health line in your part of the world. In Canada it’s 9-8-8

I personally am thankful for my writing group. We meet every two weeks and I never leave them feeling worse than when I arrived. That’s something to be grateful for! In late January, one of our members gave us a writing prompt that pulled me out of my funky state of being. The prompt was for us to write a funny story. The weird thing is that I actually felt worse at first before I started feeling better. You see, I realized that I’m not a funny person. It made me more depressed as I racked my brain thinking of a funny event or story to share. Thankfully, I’m surrounded by people who look at the world with light humour filled eyes, so telling their story helped me to find my tiny funny bone. And you know what? Funny is as contagious as depression. Anyway, without further ado, I thought I’d share the story I wrote for my writing group with you now. It’s dedicated to my son Harrison, who never fails to lift my spirits. It’s dedicated to my writing bud, Jessica, who with her dead pan, extremely witty humour, and yes, often macabre way at looking at life, inspires me. I see you Jessie!

Here’s the story I wrote and shared recently with my writing group. May it lift your spirits and give you a few giggles, I hope….if not, stay to the end when I share my Cinnamon Coffee Cake recipe which is sure to get a smile, or your mouth watering. And the answer to the joke above.

Finding the Meaning for Life in Humour (#2 Version….YES, it took a few versions)

I am not funny. Nothing about me is funny at all. From my earliest memories I’ve been a deep thinker. Long before I heard Descartes’ phrase, “I think, therefore I am,” I’ve been a navel gazer.  A solemn individual if you will. I’d like to say the heavy grief from my Dad’s early death covered me in a gray shroud for most of my life, one in which prevented any light from entering. That would be true to an extent, but I still think if darkness hadn’t covered me from a young age, I’d still be searching for the reason for being here and the meaning of life. Superficial people irritate me. I’d like to shake them and say, don’t you see all the suffering on this earth? How can you live on the surface? But I don’t, because I realize we all process life differently and maybe some float on the surface in order to just keep breathing.

Also, I wonder if I’m not entirely bright enough to recognize the various types of humour. I wonder if it’s something that comes only after years of close observation. My husband David’s favourite part of the day, is spending an hour or two in the evening watching what I call, “Silly Sitcoms,” and popular, stand up comics. I hear him laughing away in the den. When I join him for a moment and listen, he seems to pick up on some sort of subliminal message the comedian is relaying. Mirth erupts in him, yet I remain stoic.

When I look back on my life, I can’t think of one funny story. Nope, nothing sticks out. When I ask my family if they have observed anything funny about me, or something that I can relay, my youngest daughter Victoria points out that it’s funny that I keep hiding the chocolate chip bag from them, but I can’t seem to ever remember where I’ve stowed it before I go to bake. That’s more pathetic than funny, And I’m sure everyone will be laughing after I’m long gone when they find chocolate chip bags hidden all over our house. I do have a few funny stories that my son Harrison has relayed over the last few years that stick out. He has inherited his dad’s funny bone. So if you are looking for something funny today,  I’ll share a few with you now. 

In his last year of school in Victoria, he was living right down town. To get out of his small apartment for some fresh air he used to go over to a nearby Starbucks for a coffee. One day as he came upon the Starbucks entrance, he spotted two workmen standing on the sidewalk. He overheard one workman telling the other one, “Okay, the only thing you have to do is make sure you don’t hit this light post when you back in.” Harrison didn’t think anything of it. He went in to get his coffee and when he came out, coffee in hand, he was surprised to find the two men still on the sidewalk but they were looking down at the back of the truck’s fender and one was scratching his head. Harrison overheard him tell the other man, “I don’t know how that happened!” Harrison said he chuckled all the way home.

Since graduating with a degree in Commerce, he’s been working in the Royal Bank of Canada’s head office in Toronto. He works long hours in the office and often doesn’t get home until late. One evening he put in an order with Uber eats. He left instructions for the food to be delivered to the apartment lobby. Harrison went for a quick walk and was standing in the deserted lobby when a delivery person walked in, carrying a bag from the restaurant Harrison had ordered from. 

He approached the man and said, “Hey, I’m Harrison, is that for me? The man mumbled something about having to make a call. Harrison watched the man pull out his phone and punch into his device. A moment later Harrison’s phone was ringing. “Harrison here,” he answered, looking directly at the delivery man, who at that point realized the ridiculous situation, although he didn’t laugh. He just handed over the bag of food and left. Harrison chuckled all the way up the elevator but when he told me that story, I wondered if that man was a relative of mine.

The last story I have to share, is one Harrison told us when he was traveling through the Philadelphia airport on his way home from a business trip to Chile. The security line was exceptionally long and Harrison wondered what was going on. As he got closer to the front of the line, someone ahead of him asked the security person what the hold up was and Harrison overheard this response. “We don’t have enough plastic bins for people’s personal belongings.” Harrison didn’t understand this. He was thinking to himself, “Isn’t this a closed loop system, on a circular conveyor belt? Where are all the bins? Who’s taking them?” After eons, he finally got through security and was heading to his gate when he saw security bins scattered all over the floor. They were catching drips of water from the ceiling. 

There were a few other incidents that happened in that airport as well that he found funny from a functional, efficiency standpoint, but he just chalked it up to people living in their own environment and not seeing the light.

Which gets me back to my situation. I wonder, if like them, I’m just living too deeply amidst the minutiae of life, which is preventing me from rising to the surface and observing what’s really going on. Maybe, the answers to the real meaning of life, have been floating up there all this time. 

The End

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I hope my story brought brought a smile. If so, that’s great. If not, then it’s time to make a few changes for the sake of your health. Your mental health is everything. I’m sharing the quote below because, no joke, this is something I’ve done and it didn’t make me feel better!

So try getting outside for a walk, eat healthy, stay hydrated. Count three things you are grateful for and if none of those things work, make an appointment with your Doctor and tell him/her how you’re feeling. You don’t have to be only physically unwell to visit your Doctor. This is something I’m learning. Our mental health is as important as our physical and within each, there is a link to wellness. Finding a friend to talk to can help until you can get in for some professional help. Any time you feel like it, come and visit me on my blog for some company. I’m working hard at producing a few giggles these days. At the very least, come for a piece of cinnamon coffee cake. At my last writing group gathering, I shared my cinnamon coffee cake with them and while we munched away, we laughed and laughed.

Here’s to the healing power of laughter!!! and to Coffee Cake too…

Hope’s Coffee Cake

Ingredients:

The topping;

1 cup brown sugar/1 cup all purpose flour/1 tsp ground cinnamon/pinch of salt/1/2 cup unsalted softened butter

optional; chopped walnuts or pecans and you can drizzle the top with a icing sugar glaze too

The Cinnamon layer:

1/4 sugar/1 tablespoon all purpose flour/1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the cake batter:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 cups sugar
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup softened unsalted butter
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9 x 13-inch pan. (you can also use parchment paper to lift out cake easier)
  • Make the streusel layer:
    In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Use a fork to mash the butter into the mixture until completely combined and crumbly. Set aside.
  • Make the cinnamon layer:
  • In another small bowl, combine the sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Set side, as well.
  • Begin making the batter:
  • In the bowl of your mixer, add the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until combined.
  • Add the softened butter and beat on medium-low speed or mix for 2 to 3 minutes, or until all of the butter is mixed.
  • Combine the wet ingredients and finish the batter:
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, eggs, and vanilla until combined. Add the mixture to the dry ingredients. Beat the batter on medium speed until you get a smooth batter. A few small lumps are totally fine.
  • Prepare the cake:
  • Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar layer over the top of the batter in an even layer. Spread the remaining batter over the top. I do this with a big spoon and just drop lumps every few inches and then spread carefully.
  • Bake the cake:
  • Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a rack for 1 hour (or until the cake comes to room temperature) before serving. Can drizzle with icing sugar glaze if you wish

Serve with a dollop of laughter with your friends and family. Enjoy!!!

Answer to the snowman joke above.….did you guess it? (The Cold Shoulder!!!! ha! ha! ha!)

I want to thank you for visiting today.

Until we meet again, may joy and laughter fill your life.

and may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

December Magic 2022

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Happy New Year!

Dear family and friends,

Welcome back to my blog. It’s been an age. On this blustery winter day, I thought what better time than now, to dust the ‘ole cobwebs from my blog and write a few thoughts before we move fully into this new year. (2024)

Before I can do so however, I feel compelled to look back. WAYYYY back. Don’t you think before we move forward with anything, it’s good to look back and see far we’ve come? While doing so, we can give ourselves a pat on the back and say, “way to go.” And while cheering ourselves on, we can also reflect on the parts that were not so brilliant.

And before we move more fully into 2024, I want to go way back, over a year now to Christmas 2022. I meant to write about it at the time but for whatever reason I didn’t get it down. Since it looks like I’m going to be snowed in for awhile, I think this is a good time to share it with you now.

And so grab a cup of tea, coffee or hot cocoa and come for a visit with me.

Last Christmas (2022) was a snowy one. In the week before Christmas my part of the world was magically white, but it wasn’t so magical for those trying to get home for the holidays Especially, if you had to fly. All the major airports across Canada were having flights cancelled due to the inclement weather. It was like a domino effect, especially if you had a connecting flight anywhere. Actually, people were stranded in airports all over North America. My family and I huddled around the T.V. listening to all the various travel nightmares people were experiencing. I felt such heartfelt compassion for anyone travelling at this time of year. And then two of our older kids were scheduled to fly home.

Our oldest daughter Alyssa was due home mid week before Christmas which fell on Sunday in 2022. At first, her flight from Calgary was delayed, and then she got a taste of what others were dealing with as she was stuck in the airport. There were several appointed times when they said they would be flying out and then they would have to delay that time due to the weather. We were all on pins and needles as she waited, and we waited, and then thankfully, in the wee hours of the next morning we got the call that she was finally boarding her flight and would be home soon. We were just so relieved that she was finally coming home. David gladly drove in the early morning hours to bring her home. That was my first Christmas gift of the season.

and she had a few days to relax. Sit with Yuuki by the fire, read, and do puzzles.

(Some back story on Alyssa. She had only just moved to Calgary the previous October, after finding work teaching music in that city. We were thrilled for her, as this was always something she wanted to experience, but you know, when your grown children move away, you never know if they will be able to make it home for the holidays. We missed her for two holidays when she was living in London and we were so sad. Just having her home makes everything more special. She has a lovely presence about her and gets excited about simple, ordinary things, like sitting by the fire with a cat curled up beside her and a good book in her lap, a spicy, fragrant cup of chai tea, a good puzzle spread out on the dining room table, our traditional Lord of the Rings Marathons, and oh, Umma’s favourite Ambrosia/marshmallow salad, ha….so glad she made it home)

Then it was Harrison’s turn to come home after work on Friday, December 23rd. We were all biting our nails and texts were flying back and forth. I’ll never forget that dreadful phone call when Harrison called to confirm his flight had been, “officially,” cancelled. My heart dropped. Just hours before he was scheduled to leave, the Toronto Pearson International airport totally shut down due to a terrible winter storm. The snow was flying, the wind was blowing, absolutely nothing was taking off. (or landing either)

We sat around that evening a bit forlorn. The house was beautifully decorated. All the baking was done. The presents were wrapped and the stockings were stuffed, but I was rather despondent knowing Harrison would celebrate Christmas all alone in his apartment. I prayed for a miracle and then let it go. What else could I do? What truly was most important was knowing he was safe and not trying to travel home in the storm.

And so I went to sleep on Dec 23rd, sad.

And then on Christmas Eve, we got a call from Harrison who said, “you are NOT going to believe where I am mom?” I was dumbfounded and silent until I heard, “I’m sitting in the Edmonton airport and hoping to fly out later today.” WHAT??? I yelled! Then the story came out. After his flight had been cancelled Friday night he’d tried to book another flight home but there was nothing available. Partly due to the airline booking system’s online set up where it kept looking for a connecting flight for him to the Okanagan. Exhausted and defeated he finally went to bed. Then, around 3 am he woke up inspired to try to just book a direct flight to Edmonton, with the idea he could eventually get a flight from there to Kelowna. And it worked!!!There was a mid morning flight out on the 24th to Edmonton so he booked it and grabbed his suitcase and was at the airport by 6 am. (What we heard later, and makes this story rather amazing is he was able to get out in a little window of travel. A few hours later the airport shut down totally again as the storm’s intensity worsened.) His day of travel was a mini version of what the mom from the movie, “Home Alone,” had to endure to get back to her son Kevin in time for Christmas. But unlike her, the last leg of Harrison’s journey wasn’t with Gus Polinski, the Polka King and his Polka band from Sheboygan, “The Kenosha Kickers.” Here’s a excerpt from that movie which gives you a feel for the desperation one feels to get home, and also for the kindness of strangers.

While the last leg of Harrison’s travels was delayed several times, getting his hopes up and dashed, finally, late, late on Christmas Eve he flew out of Edmonton. It had been a long, LONG DAY but he was coming home. David donned his red Santa hat one more time and drove to the airport. (Keep in mind, even driving was rough going) They arrived back home at 2 am on Christmas morning.

What I know is….

Magic happens.

Having Harrison home in time for Christmas was the BEST Christmas present I received last year. Everyone was home and tucked under our eaves, (everyone except Mitchell. Don’t get me crying. There’s a sad place in my heart every holiday when he’s not physically here, but he’s happy in Australia. Isn’t that what we want for our kids?…to be happy? And so we connect via messenger and are grateful for the time we have with him)

And so, with all the flight cancellations and delays, I felt like Christmas magic was bestowed on us. I didn’t want another year to go by without writing about it. In the final years of my Dad’s life, he had a Kodak movie camera. He had such fun creating family movies and I’m thankful. I sometimes think he inspired this blog, since he too liked to write. So when I write on my blog, it’s my way of leaving a bit of me and a bit of him too, here on this earth. This is for my children, and my children’s children. and all my family and friends. You are my world and when I’m long gone I hope you remember to look for the magic in the world.

Above, Harrison, (so exhausted but smiling), later on Christmas day. He had spent 36 hours trying to get home in time for Christmas morning. It was my best present! What I learned most from 2022’s holiday was that being with those you love is the MOST important thing ever. No amount of gifts, activities, abundant food or spirits even compares. Connecting is what it’s all about.

And now, like one of my Dad’s family movies, I present the video I created to share snippets from my magical Christmas 2022.

Shut the lights out and run that projector!

Above is the video I created to remember Christmas 2022 and below is one of the Christmas pieces the kids were working on during the holidays…”In The Bleak Midwinter” which is based on English writer, Christina Rosetti’s Poem. (with all the snow we experienced it’s apropos)

After Christmas 2022, the clouds are starting to break.

As I close this blog I think the real magic in the world, not just at Christmas time, but all year through is love. When we let it fill our hearts that’s when the real magic happens.

Watch for the magic in 2024….and wishing you much love.

Until we connect again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

Thrifting With Hope

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Dear friends and family,

Thank you for joining me today. It’s late fall in my part of the world and I’m finally taking some time to share my latest passion.

“Buying items that others don’t want; also known as THRIFTING!”

Have you heard of it? Are you doing it? Has it transformed the way you shop?

This time last year, I started discovering the joy of finding beauty in things other people no longer wanted. This was quite an about face for me. You see, if you know me or have read any of my past posts, you will know I went through quite a minimalist phase. Okay, a BIG, minimalist phase. Much of that had to do with the fact that we had a larger family than average, (eight kids!) and at one time our house was packed to the brim, with children and babies, and all their stuff; Toys, Sporting Equipment, Clothes, Crafts, Books, oh, all the paraphernalia, we as parents buy because we think our kids need “whatever,” for their development. (Take it from me, a mom whose bought just about everything at one time, and in many cases, way more than one thing, like eight strollers over the years!!!) What I learned, at least in my opinion, our kids only need a few things, “us, getting out in nature and a library card.”

What changed my minimalist mindset? Well, it’s more of an evolution if you will. I still like minimal items around me. I like knowing where I can find everything. You know that old adage, “everything in it’s place,” works well for me. I also like buying fewer things of higher quality. The things that will stand the test of time. Also, with regards to clothes, I prefer natural fibres, ( organic cotton, wool) and I like classic styles. Seeing piles of fast fashion shipped in containers to be dumped overseas makes me nauseous, and that alone, has moved me towards buying second hand, quality items.

But there is more.

Slowly, over the years our children have been leaving. Very slowly at first. Since our older ones are all three years apart, one would almost be graduating from University and then the next one would be off. Some came home for the summers and a couple have gone to our the University near our home. But eventually, one by one, the four older ones have all left, and are now living in various parts around the world. Which means, our house feels lighter and bigger. Only four remain.

Over the years, I’ve been diligent about going through our house each season and teaching our children to keep only the things that are still serving them. We do that Marie Kondo thing, “what sparks joy, we keep, what doesn’t, we thank, and we gratefully then let that item go.” For years, I’ve been taking boxes and bags of clothing and household items to our local thrift stores. I’ve been diligent and conscious over not over consuming, which seems contradictory to having a large family, but I felt even more compelled to teach my children to use things up, to make do, to not always need the latest phone or electronic device. I also wanted (want) our home to feel organized and orderly. Since I have been downsizing items for several years now, I was surprised when things changed last year. I suppose it’s just a matter of time too, but suddenly things were breaking. It all started last winter, several of my favourite casserole dishes broke. It was weird because after years of use, one broke and then another. Then, a few of my favourite serving dishes for cookies and treats broke. Since we often bring snacks to share at our children’s group orchestra practices, this was a big deal, as I don’t like having to use paper or tin foil plates. My husband David looked into the cost of replacing some of my French White, CorningWare casserole dishes/lids, and we were surprised to find them quite expensive. Hmmm, what to do? Before jumping to replace them, I decided to visit a few of our local thrift stores.

I tentatively entered. The smell wasn’t the greatest. A musty used, a bit of dirt in the air scent. These were the places where I had donated boxes and boxes of clothing and household items over the years. I pushed through the less than receptive smell and started to really look at the items on the shelves, or on the racks and what I discovered was untold riches. Yes, there were things that were well used, but there were also many things brand new, or hardly used at all. What further surprised me, was there were vintage items that were unique and if picked up and displayed properly, could enable me to curate that comfortable English Cottage style I desired.

I was hooked!

The first treasures I didn’t take pictures of. I was easily able to replace my French White, CorningWare. I now have two oval casserole dishes and two rounds ones in varies sizes. All with lids. And over the last year I’ve found lovely plates, in which I can take my cookies, muffins, vegetable and fruit platters, to all the events that happen with orchestra and at my children’s potluck activities. Also, you know what I love? I love being able to have someone over and send them home with some leftovers or cookies, not on a paper plate but on an actual plate they can keep. This goes the same with candy dishes and vases. I’ve found the greatest gifts at the thrift store to give to loved ones. This makes me so happy!

If you are intrigued….and you may be….

Here are a few of the treasures I’ve found this last year. Some are vintage, like the depression glass candy dishes and the cake plate. Some are collector type items as well. Mostly, the things I select are to create a curated home with old style charm. So check out a few of my treasures below, but WARNING….thrift shopping can be addictive.

It’s a bit like digging for treasure.

Once I realized I was onto something I started taking pictures of some of my lovely finds. Also, please note that almost everything I bought was 30% off! I only shop when there are sales, or when I have a 20% off or more coupon.

Below is a lovely, soft wool scarf that goes with absolutely everything. This scarf is big enough to wear as a shawl, or can be draped over the back of a sofa. I’m always looking for picture frames as Kathryn loves to paint and I love to frame her work. The Cookie plates are perfect for giving away with some of my baking. The candy dish and cake plate are both depression glass and are vintage finds. DEALS! but I just love them.

Our cat Yuuki always checks out what I bring into the house.

I also always check out the linen. Above, I found brand new cloth napkins.

Below….

I was looking for a pottery utensil holder and I found two. The cream one with a red top (very vintage) is the one I use now and the green marble one, I placed a plant in. I was happy to find dessert dishes too as these always seem to break and I was thrilled to find these for a low price. Nothing really overly special about them but perfect for a bowl of yogurt or ice cream. The cream coloured dish is large and perfect for taking places filled with cookies. I liked the scalloped edge with the leaf motif. The glass one is lovely piled with fruit, or a yummy cake.

Do you think I’m crazy yet? For the longest time, I snapped these pictures and only shared them with my son Harrison, who has been living and working in Toronto this past year. I wanted a way to bring him into my life on a weekly basis and I felt like showing him a few of my thrift finds was one way to do that. He never said I was crazy, but since graduating with a Commerce degree last year and now working in high finance on Bay Street, I wondered if he was just being polite.

And soooooo…..I think it’s probably better that I finally come clean and share what’s been going on in my life on my blog.

As you may know, I haven’t been writing on my blog much this past year but I have been making pie and quiches. When I found this marble rolling pin at the Salvation Arm I snapped it up. You can’t really see it, but underneath is a wooden stand, so it doesn’t fall off the Island when I’m rolling out my dough. (It’s heavy and would damage my wood floor for sure!) When I came home with it, I went on line to check pricing. I couldn’t find one similar for under $30.00 dollars. The one below was the least expensive at $36.00 dollars. Needless to say, I was thrilled as I bought mine for $10.00 dollars. at the Salvation Army thrift store. I know this isn’t a huge savings, but if I were to resell it, I’d triple my money. But I’m not selling it!!! (As an investment guy, maybe Harrison would say that’s small peanuts but hey, it’s still a win) Plus, who doesn’t like pie?

Below is another lovely casserole dish, smaller than my other new ones but useful for leftovers and it was in mint condition. Oh, don’t you just love that lemon yellow plate? When I saw it for the first time, it made me feel like Spring was just around the corner and that little bunny made me hop up and down and smile. The bunny, btw, sits next to my sink and I put my scrub brush inside of her. Keep in mind everything was 30% off too!!!! That was a Spring Score! More dessert dishes…they are great for putting dips in. Also, I liked the basket weave look around this off white plate. I know it may seem like I have a lot of plates but when I sign up for providing our orchestra a snack, it requires the use of many plates.

While I didn’t capture pictures of the following, I must tell you about them…

I found a lovely crystal vase before Valentines day and gave it to my oldest son and his fiancé, filled with chocolates. Also, I didn’t take pictures of all the crystal candy dishes that I found for my youngest children but I bought them and filled them too with Valentine’s candy. I was so happy to find the glass vase below as it’s the perfect size for a few cut flowers placed next to a bed. I’m always looking at vases because every year I’m growing more cut flowers in my garden. Also, as I mentioned above, I’m wanting to create a English Cottage style of interior, so I have been looking for a few blue and white transferware dishes. The ones below are quite common (Liberty Bell) but also lovely. And that cake dish is another depression glass piece that I have seen at the Antique store for 3 times what I paid. (Again, remember I shop when everything is either 20 to 30% off as I only go when there is a sale on, or when I have a coupon)

By early Spring of this year I realized I had a bit of an obsession, but seeing the sign below put everything in perspective. Over the years I know I’ve cared far too much for what other’s think of me, (and my family) but as I’m growing older, I’m letting that go. This little chicken sign is now in my laundry room, where I spend a lot of time, (the joy of still having four kids at home) and it reminds me to let go and laugh.

One of my dreams is to turn our children’s old play house into my writing studio, so when I found the little shelf (below) with the heart etched in it, I was over joyed. I could see this in my studio, with my old blue sweater hanging from one of the wooden peg, and a few of my favourite Willow Tree Angels sitting on top, inspiring me to write from my heart. Also, I’ve made due without a whisk for a few years now, crazy I know, because anyone that cooks, knows you need whisks! The glass dish with the divider has come in handy so many times this past year. I’ve filled it with fruit and vegetables and can’t you just picture a delectable chocolate cake on that cake plate? When we renovated our son Will’s room in the summer, we put that sturdy coat rack up on the wall. It was brand new, still in it’s package and fits in with his old fashion board and batten bedroom style.

Again, when you are looking at prices…remember I didn’t pay full price and if you are thrifting, look for the days when there are deals, or donate something and get a coupon for 20% off. Here’s a tip too, have you ever passed a free item on the side of the road? Even if you don’t want it, pick it up, donate it, get a coupon from your thrift store and buy something you do want. Also, at some places, if you become a member there are further discounts.

With a family of six at home, invariably glasses and plates are getting broken. I was happy to find these glasses and plates on one of my treasure shops. Also, I absolutely loved the botanical prints of roses with gorgeous old English looking frames. I knew these pictures were old as they said, “Eatons,” on the back. “Eatons,” was an old department store in Canada. I placed each picture above the girls beds in their new room. (I will write a blog post about this reno soon, I promise, as it turned out so sweet and was a fun project) I was happily shocked to fine these black dress shoes for next to nothing. Always check out the purses, shoes, wallets and belts. I’ve found such high quality items. You just need to look. I’m looking forward to a few concerts this fall where I can enjoy wearing these shoes and know that I got them for less than $10.00.

I love baskets! Also, when I can find a picture that I think would make a lovely addition to my future gallery wall, I pick it up. Below, “The Blue Boy,” a print of Gainsborough’s famous painting is a classic, but it was delightfully in an old vintage frame. (I bought him for $4.00 on sale.) When I found the little white birds I had to get them. It was like they were waiting for me. My sweet nephew has had major health challenges this year and since he loves to take care of animals, particularly birds, I knew these needed to go to him and remind him how much he is loved.

Part of taking care of the Earth, is taking care of each other

(And now below)

As we were moving towards summer, I needed some sleeveless summer tops. I visited a shop where some of the profits go towards supporting our mental health organization. I was so happy to find beautiful clothing at reasonable prices and know some of the money would go towards a good cause. (The quote above reminds me to let go of my belief to only buy new things. If we want to help the earth, we need to let go of limiting beliefs and in doing so we help others shine too.

Isn’t the little lamp the sweetest? I bought it for our twin daughter’s renovated bedrooms. I must write a blog post about these summer renovations as thrifted finds make their rooms more special. Also, I found more wicker. LOVE IT! And on my list was wooden cutting boards and on this day I found a great one with a handle. The old brown “Betty” tea pot is huge but then, when we have family over I can brew a big pot of tea and it’s perfect for all of us. The dishes are Homer Laughlin and are called, “Pastoral.” They are creamy white with soft green pictures of farms and old time, winter scenes. After purchasing them, I came home and looked them up and realized I got them for a really great price…but what was more important was they inspired a new kitchen reno…more about that below.

The crystal butter dish, I’ve used everyday. We’ve been using real butter and healthier fats since last Spring, so this is a lovely addition to our kitchen. I did see a pottery, butter dish awhile ago and I left it at the thrift store. I often think of it. It would have been perfect for our everyday use and then I could have kept this one for special occasions. This is an example of one thing I passed up and wished I had put in my cart. That is the one downfall of thrifting. When you see something that sparks joy, put it in your cart. Everything is unique and chances are, if you like it, someone else will too. Like the butter dish, I’ve had a few regrets of things that I didn’t pick up but then using this lovely dish everyday, reminds me that everyday is special.

The final item in this shopping trip was that white casserole dish with little handles. I loved it! We used it so much in the summer time that one day it too broke. I was only momentarily sad. Then the feeling left. It’s only stuff after all. (on the ledge is a picture that Kate painted in the summertime. I often look for frames to put her paintings in)

Here are the plates up close…aren’t they precious? And also in the colours that I want to paint our kitchen.

Below is a picture of a kitchen with white upper cabinets and dark gray green ones….We have been thinking of repainting our current kitchen cabinets….probably more green than below but it gives you the idea. The Homer Laughlin plates inspired my colour choices…Peaceful.

It’s funny how a simple plate can be your inspiration for a total kitchen makeover!

And by September time, my youngest daughters, (Victoria above, and Kathryn, below) were begging to be brought to the thrift store to shop for their back to school clothes, as they were growing out of everything and wanted special, unique, one of a kind type outfits. I was happy to accommodate. My children are inspiring me to do little things to care for the earth. Reusing things, is just as important as recycling, maybe more so, as it doesn’t take any energy, just appreciation and gratitude.

Below are just a few items I found in the summer…the jeans were just $6.00 each and all name brands. I loved the summer dress and the shirt and shorts were a cool outfit for those summer evenings when you want to be casual but a bit dressy. The picture doesn’t do them justice. The point though is that for the price of one pair of new jeans, I filled my closet with clothes for the summer, and clothes that I’m wearing this fall.

After almost a year of being a closet thrifter, I’ve decided to go public and say, if you’ve not tried this type of consuming, it’s the wisest, most environmentally friendly way to shop. Reusing, reimagining, giving something new life, is marvelous. What I’ve discovered is that I’m not alone. I’ve found a community of people just like me on YouTube who actually like going thrift shopping. Inspired by this, I’ve taken my camera with me and actually filmed little snippets of my shopping trips. Usually, when I shop though, it’s super busy, and I’m mindful not to film when people are around. But I know, some people want to see what’s on the shelves in my part of the world and so, I will endeavor to put some of my thrift shopping trips and treasure finds on my YouTube, “The Reynolds Homestead.”

Check it out…as it’s coming soon!!!

Finally,

I know things are difficult financially for many people. I know many people are struggling to just put food on their table and pay their rent and mortgages. (If they are lucky enough to own a home that is) I know shopping at a thrift store may not be something you can afford but I wanted to also put this thought in your ear. If you need a bit of extra cash, this can also be an income stream. Maybe not a ton, but if you have free time, it’s something to think about. When I go shopping, I’ve recognized a regular group of people and judging from what they put in their carts, “Vintage items, collector items, etc, ” I’m pretty sure they are reselling them on Facebook Marketplace, or other social media resale outlets. Some things I find, I know I could resell and earn a bit of an income. When I’ve gone to larger outlets there are pieces of furniture too that can be painted and sold for higher amounts. So keep that in mind. When we are creative and in the flow of being grateful, our eyes are open to endless possibilities.

May hope remain in your heart.

And may we have hope that even the littlest things we do help the earth.

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

A Time to Celebrate

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My dear blogging friends and family, it feels like forever since I last wrote but it’s been a busy spring around here. While the world is being shaken like a snow globe with war in Ukraine and economic unrest, due to record high inflation, we are taking a moment to celebrate our son.

Last week this time, we were on our way home from Vancouver Island, where we had travelled to witness our son Harrison’s grad convocation ceremony in Victoria, B.C.. He is now an alumni graduate from the Gustavson School of Business/ University of Victoria with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. If I had known we would reach this day, I would have saved my breath throughout his five years of high school. If I had known he would have found his passion in the business world, I would have just enjoyed watching him grow up. I would have put a pause on the record that went something like this every day on the drive to high school; “Always do you best Harrison. Strive for excellence. Dream big and follow your heart. Be kind and be honest.” When I think back to those days I remember him being very respectful and tolerate of my rants and lectures, probably because he knew that once he was in the driver seat he would really start to fly.

Anyway, you’d think I would have learned but today was my younger three children’s last day of school and I was back at it. Me; “Make sure you take a moment to really thank your teacher, “in the eye,” for everything they have given you this year! Be Grateful.” It continues, ha!..but last week this time, as we drove home from the Island after Harry’s grad, David and I were just smiling.

And so, today I’m taking a moment to celebrate Harry. I’m taking this moment to cheer and clap and say, “Congratulations Harrison! We are so proud of you.” And while we celebrate this moment, I thought it would be a good time to go down memory lane, sharing a few pictures of Harry growing up and finally some pictures of his grad last week.

It all started when Harrison was born, two weeks early on December 19th 1998. In the above picture Harrison engages with me as I sing the “Winnie the Pooh song but I replace the Winnie the Pooh part with, “Harrison Drew, Harrison Drew, what a sweet, sweet little bear!”
And of course, one of his favourite stuff toys was a Pooh bear….which wasn’t replaced until his got “Baby bear,” when he was a year old….I think he still has “Baby bear” somewhere in his condo???
I can remember putting this little grey onesie on Harrison….even though he was our third son in a row, it was so much fun dressing him in cute outfits. He wore a lot of sporty type clothing and I’m sure while David was holding Harrison above, he was whispering sports related stories to him……”once you learn to walk, you can bounce a ball, kick a ball, hit a ball and of course swing a golf club.” And I’m sure he was also starting to tell him one of his famous quotes, “if you’re not first, your last!” Although, Harrison must have learned more by observing David and how he treated people because he learned the meaning of a Win/Win and demonstrated it when he won the Grade 12 basketball’s, most sportsmanlike award.

Harrison was always surrounded by big brothers and a sister who loved him so much. When I was choosing a picture for my blog today I had such a hard time finding just one….there were so many of them with his older siblings kissing, hugging, talking and spending time with him. Each has been a wonderful role model for him but he has found his own place in the middle of our family.
One of the first times Harrison visited Vancouver Island, where he would eventually go to University, was when he was 8 months old. He spent most of that first trip seeing the BIG trees at Cathedral Grove and walking the beaches in his backpack. For years we returned for our summer vacations and visiting the Island became a family tradition the kids all grew up with.
The summer of 2003 Harrison spent a lot of time walking Long Beach with a stick and writing his name in the sand.

There were “Harrison’s” all over Long Beach when we left!

While Harrison is a great sport…he likes to win. The picture above was taken last Christmas with his three younger siblings. I believe they were playing, “Betrayal at House on the Hill.” I can’t even describe the level of noise as they played game after game over the holidays. Let’s just say they played it LOUDLY! When they weren’t playing board games they were on the Nintendo Switch playing, “Super Smash Bros,”….same noise level….and lots of jumping up out of their chairs.

Fast Forward….from that Long Beach picture above… 19 years later…

This picture was taken on June 15th, before the U Vic’s business school’s brunch, held at the Empress Hotel’s Crystal Garden, Harrison was given a red braided cord to represent his Dean’s list achievement! It was a delicious brunch and a great way to kick off his Grad day.

Then a few hours after that….

We take a few pictures with Harrison, our latest U Vic Grad. His older sister Alyssa and Mitchell also are U Vic alumni. (thank you D for taking the picture!)
Harrison’s University of Victoria, Grad professional photo!
Standing next to one of the University of Victoria’s age old trees is our son Harrison. I wonder how many grads have stood next to this tree over the years?
We picked up a Diploma frame for Harrison and as David and Harrison walk together, I’d like to think David is telling him how proud he is and that in basketball terminology he’s telling him, “You scored an incredible 3 pointer Harrison.”

And now he’s off into the world of business. At the beginning of July he will start working with RBC’s head office in their Natural Resources department. The world of high finance awaits his entry but I’m not going to lecture, or even give any advice. I’m just here smiling. His Auntie B and Uncle J did give him a lovely graduation card, however, and I believe the words of Ram Dass are wiser than anything I could ever say.

Thank you Auntie B and Uncle J for the card below…..

The world keeps spinning, wars continue to be fought, oil prices rise relentlessly and food insecurity ravages many parts of our world, but we must take the time to dance and celebrate during moments such as this. I believe that together we make this world a better place and you just never know when one of our children will find a cure for cancer, or discover the next big green energy company that will solve the world’s climate crisis. It’s really an exciting time to be a parent, as our children head out into the world to shine in their own light.

Congratulations Harrison!

Until we connect again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

The Greatest Adventure

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Although February is the shortest month of the year, it can also be a month that drags on and on. I guess that is why so many of us plan trips to warmer climes this time of year. We restore our reservoir of Vitamin D, take off a few layers of clothing and lighten our spirit. We travel to places that give us a different perspective so when we come home, the lens through which we view life is clearer. (Oh, and don’t we appreciate our own bed all the more!)

While away, many of us immerse ourselves in other cultures, experience exotic foods and tour around historic places. When we return from our trip, we experience the joy once again by sharing stories and memories with friends and family. All too soon, however, our relaxed holiday vibe evaporates into the ether of every day life and our adventure experience is packed away, gathering dust, like our suitcase.

I think for many of us right now, we travel to escape this pandemic too. A part of our brain still hasn’t processed this crazy reality we are experiencing and we think if we can just get away, when we come back it will be gone. Or at least more bearable. The thing is there is no escape. This event is happening globally and I believe it’s the shift and shove our world needs in order for us all to embark on the greatest adventure of our lives.

Doesn’t the GREATEST adventure sound EXCITING?

Maybe you have already been on this trip???

You don’t have to pack a swim suit or ensure your travel vaccinations are all up to date. You don’t have to find someone to care for your pets, or ask your neighbour to keep an eye out on your house. However, you will need to pack a new perspective. Trust me, it’s one that will change all of our lives. Look at this time in history as a portal to creating a richer life. Are you wondering what I’m talking about? The inspiring writer and poet, Rainier Maria Rilke, offered this sage advice more than 100 years ago. His words resonates still, as truth with stands the ages.

And no travel agent is required.

If you’ve ever sat in solitude for any length of time, or walked outside with only the birds as your companions, you will have experience the gateway to the journey within. It’s where spirit meets us and takes us to a place of limitless space and time. A place of peace. While we are there we may want all answers to our questions but;

Rilke also reminds us to:

That’s exciting to me…living the questions. Experiencing them all…even the pain, the terror, the uncomfortable moments on the journey. The best trips in life have a little bit of everything in them after all. Have you ever snorkelled for the first time and had water fill your mask?

Guess what? More and more of us are taking that trip. We see this time in history as an opportunity for a major shift in collective consciousness and we are uniting together increasing the energy vibration full of light and love. And where does love come from? Our truest nature; our spirit, our soul, call it what you will. Our eyes are open and there is no turning back. It’s a good thing too because our Earth needs us all to come together, not just for the sake of humanity, but for the climate crisis happening which will impact us all.

If you haven’t jumped on this bandwagon but are interested, you may be asking yourself?

How do I embark on such a trip within? The cool things is you can jump right into the depths of this journey with a daily meditation practice or some soulful time on a yoga mat. Not for you, you say? Well try this then. One very simple thing you can do happens first thing in the morning. Instead of groaning when your alarm beeps and letting the problems or worries of the day over take you, take a lovely deep breath. Fill your lungs and then slowly breathe out through your nose. As you are taking that first breath of the day, whisper, “good morning,” to your spirit. Wiggle your fingers and your toes, stretch your body and whisper, “thank you!” You have another glorious day ahead of you and now as you take another breath, set an intention for the day. What would you like to focus on? How do you want to walk your path today? What do you want to experience?

The trip within starts with awareness.

Will loving kindness be your guide? How about sprinkling some compassion throughout your day? The funniest thing happens when my intention is to be gentle on myself. My day starts slowly. No rushing. I’m conscious of my breath. I’m not yelling at my kids to wake up but by gently rubbing their backs and whispering, “good morning,” into their ears. As my day starts to unfold I’m conscious not to fill it with too many expectations. If I have already filled my calendar, I edit the least important obligations.

The weirdest thing happens on these days. When I’m back in bed later that night, counting my blessings and ready to close my eyes, I realize that the day ended up being incredibly productive. A day of gentleness ended up being a day when I accomplished more than I would have otherwise. It often is a day full of joy, creative moments, time with myself and time with my loved ones. Maybe I’ve even reached outside our immediate circle and spread some love and encouragement to others. By starting the day asking for gentleness to come, I allowed my spirit to guide me and what came were the same feelings I experience on a good holiday or trip; joy and peace.

And I never left home!

Hmmmmm…..

I have a few other tips on things to do while getting ready for the greatest adventure but I wanted to share something I’m doing this month to get away. It might intrigue you too…

This Friday, February 11th, 2022, I’m starting another adventure with spirit. I’m taking my second, “Foundations of Mediumship and Channeling,” course and I’m SOOOO excited to connect with my spirit team and work with them on a daily basis. If you want to hear more about it, check out this YouTube video and ask yourself, “does this resonate with my spirit?” Is this a trip that I want to take or experience? Since connecting with spirit is all about love…this is my Valentine’s gift to myself. Here’s more about the upcoming course and I’m plugging it on behalf of my daughter who is in the process of building her business as a spiritual teacher and guide. I’m so proud of her!!! She has always been one of my biggest teachers in life.

If it excites you, then I invite you to join me on this journey. But remember, the journey within starts with yourself and if you are new at taking this sort of trip, here are a few tips and some background on what prompted me on this trip of a lifetime.

A bit over twenty years ago, I started on a journey that resulted in a major spiritual awakening. While trying to conceive one more child to complete our family who was not coming through as easily as the ones I gave birth to in my 30’s, I started taking some life style changing steps that eventually allowed me to expand my consciousness and manifest my soul baby….and another three! (I had never dreamed I would be a mom to eight children, four of them born after I was 40!) Many people view having children as a biological act but in order for me to bring these last children to earth, I had to travel deep within myself and touch the divine. They are the magical manifestations from that long, ten year trip. Oh But WHAT a TRIP!!!

What are you trying to manifest in your life? Whatever it is, I’m going to share the secret now. Are you ready? The key to bringing whatever you desire into your reality is that you must have laser focus/a dream or intention on whatever it is you want. That desire is going to be thrumming in your brain. Then you have to trust that somehow your dream will come true. You may find that you are working really hard and doing everything you can to bring that dream to fruition but things just aren’t flowing for you. You have to trust that magic is happening behind the scenes and the timing may not be right yet. The last key I’m passing to you is the most important of all. Can you guess what it is? “Surrender.” You simply let go. Yep, that’s it….dream it, trust that it will come and then let it go! And after you have done those three magic things, you can play at the following and watch incredible events and experiences happen in your life.

Note: You can do the following in any order. Start incorporating them slowly and your perspective will start to shift. You will start noticing signs that you are not alone, and things will start happening in your life that will allow whatever you have been waiting for to manifest.

Ready? Here are some suggestions as you take that trip within.

  1. Declutter! Years ago I took a course at our local College on the art of Feng Shui and spent a whole winter reading everything I could find on the topic. That winter, I went room by room and decluttered the things that were no longer serving us any longer. By spring time I had created a space for our family full of peace and calm. Decluttering is a constant process and once you start you will find it doesn’t end just with your physical belongings but will spread out into all areas of your life. After I decluttered our home, I started letting go of toxic relationships and anything that was not supporting my journey.

2. Start taking care of your physical body. Eat whole food, eliminate white sugar, flour and anything processed. Buy a juicer or a really great blender, and start your day with a veggie juice each morning. Stretch and start moving your body. Build a stronger core. When we start feeling better physically, we will sleep deeper and we’ll have more energy for what we want in life. I started practising yoga and found connecting with my breath while sitting on my yoga mat brought me quickly to spirit. Having a yoga practise that starts and ends with some meditation is life changing! Plus having balance, flexibility, strength and endurance all helped me walk my daily path.

3. Get outside and connect with earth’s energy Turn off your phone, kick off your shoes if you can and touch the ground with your bare feet. Sit against a tree and feel it’s roots ground you. Allow the magic of nature to find you. Since I’m a gardener, digging in the earth daily, playing with plants and working with our trees and bushes restores me three seasons of the year in my climate. If you only have an apartment invite some plants into your home. If you have a deck or patio, start growing some herbs, and vegetables. Our earth heals us and brings us to ourselves!

4. Start noticing what you are thinking? Power your thoughts with positive self affirmations. Examine your belief system. Read, learn, follow your intuition and allow it to be your teacher. I find that judgments are always flitting to the surface of my brain and I have to gently remind myself, “it’s all good!” We are human so this will happen. Being conscious is the key. Being loving while on our path is the most important thing we can do.

5. Find a few mantras that keep you on your path. Trust and let go was mine throughout the years we were trying to conceive our last four children. It reminded me that there is something bigger than myself at work. It also allowed the Universe to provide what I needed for a more enlightened life. Listen within. You spirit will tell you the words to chant. Be your biggest cheerleader!!!

6. Start a gratitude journal or a gratitude jar. At the end of the day, write down three things that you are grateful for, or things that happened to you during the day that helped to guide you on your path. When you start this practise, you will be heightened to all sorts of things that happen in your life that you never noticed before. Also, when you start being actively thankful for gifts, more will come. Before you know it, you will be writing down five and then ten things in your journal each day. Watch joy start being your constant companion through a gratitude practice. We have a gratitude jar in our kitchen and during the year we fill it up with little pieces of paper full of grateful moments. On New Year’s Eve, we take turns reading out the notes and afterwards we take them all outside and burn them in a pot, sitting in the magical white snow. It’s been a fun tradition for our family and I believe it’s teaching our children to look around them and be conscious of all the wondrous things put on their path each day. We are soooo blessed!

That’s it.

That’s my list of suggestions for your upcoming trip. What’s really exciting is when you start working on one or two of the above, things start to really roll. For instance, when you start exercising outside, eating well, sleeping peacefully, you may have energy to add some sun salutations on your yoga mat in the morning. And this will make you feel even more inspired so you will then head into your kitchen and fill your juicer with yummy veggies to provide your liver some added support. If you have been looking for a yoga beginner, sun salutations practice, check out this YouTube video. (Just thinking of it now makes my backs and legs and arms, want a good stretch!) Namaste!

Thank you Ashton! And you didn’t even have to leave your house!!!

I have one more link that you may find useful as you prepare for the trip of your lifetime. Earlier this year, I discovered Suzanne Guismann. She is a mystic, medium, spiritual teacher and get this, a former military officer in the U.S. She provides evidence based, aha moments, so if you are skeptical of people being able to connect with spirit and hesitant to start packing for your own trip, then she may blow your socks off. She’s currently offering a free, on line course called: 3 Keys to Unlock Your Powers of Mediumship. Learn more about it: here.

I also want to give you a link to a few of her free guided meditation sessions. They are at the bottom of her “gifts” page. There is a 10 minute clearing chakra meditation and then the one I love, is called, “Making the Connection.” In just twenty minutes allow peace to find you. (click on those hyper links to find the “gifts” page and then scroll down for the free guided meditations)

And I have one more quote by Rilke for you because you are so LOVED! The Universe wants you to tap into everything that is waiting for you.

Well my dear friends and family, I feel like I’ve written another novella type post. It’s hard not to go on and on and want to share the magical journey of travelling within. It’s simply life changing and I know I’m not alone. So many people are shifting their perspective and becoming more spirit driven. Filling our world with more light is always a good thing so, “Shine On” my dear ones and journey well.

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

But a Drop

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Some days I feel, “but a drop” in this bigger reality we call life. Drifting aimlessly through my days of being a mother and wife. And then some days the vastness of my being blows me away. The piece below was inspired by a prompt my writing friend, Akira suggested for our writing group. “Beginnings and Endings, Endings and Beginnings, Beginnings and Endings again.”

I hope you like it and it gets you thinking about where you are in your reality. Where are any of us REALLY?

“The mountains gave birth to me. In the beginning I was only a trickle of melted snow but I grew bigger when drops of moisture fell off the great evergreen trees encircling me. Spring rains filled me up and I started running with glee down hill where I eventually joined a bubbling stream. What a happy time it was, gurgling over rocks and leaves. Once a soft brown eyed deer drank deeply from me and hidden silently in the bushes was her spotted fawn. Only I saw her.

I started picking up more speed and realized I was now part of a frosty creek. As we moved along, other streams arrived and they became my kindred spirits. We laughed and danced moving with ease and flow when suddenly a distant roar entered our peaceful forest. 

The trees on the bank were moving swiftly past me and the loud noise became deafening, like a hundred lions lay ahead.  Without any warning I flew with my friends through the air, falling, falling, so rapidly we fell that I lost all feeling and thought of myself. A crash brought me to my senses and I found myself in a dark green pool floating easily and gently downstream. Warm sun made me feel lazy and relaxed. 

For a long while I allowed myself to be carried away until I noticed the landscape around me had changed. The trees were thinning and the land beside me was rich and green. Black and white spotted cows munched on thick blades of grass in the pasture beside me and in the distance I saw a bright red barn with crisp white trim. There was much to see now as I travelled along and I kept my eyes wide open. 

I felt big and strong and realized I was no longer a creek, I had become part of a mighty river with a mind of its own. The powerful current moved so rapidly that I found I had to hold onto myself at first and then I flew over some boulders and joined the white waters full of froth and fun. I let go and became interwoven with something greater than myself. Suddenly, I felt an awareness of beings connected to all things.

My senses grew sharper. My vision became crisper and clearer and my ears picked up the smallest nuance of sound. Everything was alive. I marvelled over the wooden and then steel  bridges we travelled under. What feat of engineering created those I wondered? Cars and trucks too numerous to count flew by me on the nearby  highway  and floating all around were all types of boats; motor boats, barges, even a little ferry. 

People too were in every place I looked. On the shore I spied a little boy fishing with an old man. One so small with brown hair sticking out from under his baseball cap, and the other tall, bent over and wizened but between them brilliant sparks flew as they laughed over the little fish the boy had caught. Oh how delightful this world is, I thought. 

Around the next bend I had to blink a few times to focus on the impressive sight. A mass of buildings covered the whole landscape. Many of them were so tall they seemed to touch the sky and like castle sentinels they welcomed me to come closer. I couldn’t take it all in; the people, the cars, trucks, boats and the buildings, were all so much more than I had ever imagined in this world. It seemed like a lifetime ago when I was just a drop in the stillness of the mountains.

All too soon my river slowed and I had time to observe people on colourful houseboats. One woman was watering bright red geraniums in terracotta pots. Some people walked dogs of all shapes and sizes on the paved pathways beside me and some sat in quiet contemplation on rocky beaches, their bench a long uprooted tree.I noticed some seemed happy and others sad. What brought those emotions I wondered.

In deep reflection of all I’d seen I was brought up to the top of the surface with a start. I was changing in colour and texture. No longer was I part of a clear river, but instead had changed into a cloudy grey and there was a salty heaviness slowing me down. How strange to experience so many transformations and yet feel exactly the same. And as I was thinking this, without any warning, I left my river behind and flowed into the endless ocean.

The end of my journey had come.

Or had it?”

We are all but drops. But the point is, “we are!”

and we are not alone!

Until we meet again I hope the love and light of February fills your soul until it bubbles over.

You are so LOVED!

Blessings from Hope

The Joy of a New Year ~ 2022

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Remembering an old photo from the early 60’s, I could almost hear the booming countdown; “Ten, Nine, Eight, Seven, Six, Five, Four, Three, Two, One,” and then a jubilant chorus of voices singing, “Happy New Year!” In the photo, men and women were dressed to the nines, wearing their holiday finery. Silly party hats perched on their heads and noise makers were held in their hands. In the middle of the room were two men laughing their heads off. One was pushing a large wheelbarrow with the other one riding inside. He was dressed in nothing but a cloth diaper, bonnet and carrying an enormous baby bottle. Across his bare chest was a New year’s banner. 

It was simple joy from another time. 

Looking at this photo, images flickered through my mind of my parents getting ready to go out for the evening. My mom was fluttering around the house in her red satin party dress. The tight bodice and big skirt accentuated her still tiny waist, after having us four girls. I inhaled her flowery perfume and turned my chubby, four year old cheek towards her bright red lips for a going away kiss. My handsome, dark haired dad was standing at the back door jiggling car keys and calling, “Ethel, we’re going to be late.” A moment later she hurried into the kitchen and he helped her put on her jet black, Borg fur coat, with the shiny silver lining. They gave us a final wave, a quick smile and then they were gone. 

My parents, Marvyne and Ethel Clark

Our parents had been married on January 1, 1946 and going out on New Year’s Eve was their way of celebrating their anniversary each year. They would go to a house party or in the later years to the Elk’s hall in our little town of Hope, where the picture I mentioned above had been taken. Another tradition that started as soon as my older sister’s Bonnie and Cherie started having money of their own was they’d pool their resources and buy a little gift for our parents. It wouldn’t be much, but along with taking them breakfast in bed it was a sweet tradition. 

It was the first joy of the New Year.

A few days ago, I asked my sister Bonnie about the photo I remembered and with a chuckle she said, “Oh yeah, that was probably Dad in the wheelbarrow being pushed by his best friend Ralph Feltran. She then said, “Dad was always doing silly things for a laugh.” I do remember another funny moment when Dad and probably Ralph again, placed a women’s purse on the road with a fishing line attached and then they hid behind the bushes. When a car stopped and the person went to investigate the purse, Ralph pulled the fishing line and Dad started rolling some film through his Kodak movie camera, to capture the person’s reaction to the moving purse. Many of our neighbours knew Dad well by all the practical jokes he pulled over the years.  

Another time we were visiting my grandma Clark and all the aunts, uncles and cousins were there too. Dad started filming once again and when he had enough film clips, he asked if I would put a sign on my frilly underpants and bend over. Even though I was probably only around three or four, I told him emphatically no, as that would totally embarrass me around my older cousins. Later, I wished I’d let him put the sign reading, “The End,” on my butt, so I could have been in one of the last home movies he filmed.

Thinking of my Dad, our family and the little things that made life more fun has got me thinking about the memories we are creating for our children. We have lots of traditions and are an active family but I find we are goal oriented, intellectually driven, and our joy is often linked to our accomplishments and not so much on simple fun moments. 

Except for my husband David. I often walk by his office throughout the day and see him laughing and joking with his clients and his coworkers while talking on the phone or during a video call. He works hard but doesn’t take anything too seriously.  Each night at dinner, he’ll tell us a funny incident that happened during his day, or he will share the latest joke from the comedian, “Jeff Foxworthy’s daily calendar he has on his desk. The one today was, “You know you are a redneck when you tuck your shirt into your underpants.” He likes to sing old rock and roll songs in the car while driving the kids to their various activities, even though he knows he should be singing tenor, ten or twelve feet away from anyone, as he can’t carry a tune. At the end of the day, when the house is quiet, he will often escape back into his Den to watch some comedy sitcom episodes. When asked what he’s up to he’ll smile and say,  “I need a bit of funny before bed.”

I want a bit of funny too this year. I think I now know what my New year’s resolution is; I want more joy in my life. More spontaneous laughter over the simple things.  So when December 31st 2022 rolls around I think I’ll be making a sign and sticking it on the butt of my jeans and this is what it will say, 

“The End of the BEST year ever, but the Joy continues!”

Before I close I wanted to share a few pictures we took of the family over the holidays. As I look at these pictures I remember the moments of joy we created; playing games, sledding in below 20 weather, movie marathons; it was a good holiday and I’m looking forward to more moments in 2022~more joy!

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

Winter’s Gift

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Although summer is my favourite season with those endless sunny days, there is something profoundly moving about winter and the magic that comes with winter’s solstice. It’s funny that I should say moving, since winter solstice actually means, “sun stand still.” It is a time of quiet reflection. It’s a space where we can slow down, take deep breaths and transform in the peace of the season.

Speaking of transforming, I turned 62 in November. I don’t advertise that number because I live in an ageist society. If we revered our wise elders, I would be shouting my advancement towards Universal insight from the rooftops, however, since that is not the case, I remain silent. Our three youngest children, born late in my life, when I was 49 and 51 have often told me of instances where their friends are curious about my age, probably because I look more like their grandparents than their parents. My kids are totally on to them and know society makes judgment calls regarding age, so when the mom age question comes up, they smoothly reply, “She’s ageless!”

I’ve got them well trained!

And even though I don’t focus on my age, I did give myself a birthday present this year. It was a gift of an experience. The minimalist in me loves those the best and what was even better was this gift was a month-long course being run by my oldest daughter, Alyssa. She is a spiritual coach and medium. Like my age, my daughter’s profession is not something I share with many. If I run into someone who used to know Alyssa growing up and they ask me what she’s up to now, I reply, “She’s teaching.” This is not a lie. She went to University, obtained her BA and her B Ed, trained and worked as a teacher for a number of years in the U.K. and here in Canada, all in the traditional school setting we know. What I don’t tell them is that she is teaching people how to connect with their spirit team and she now guides people towards their soul’s purpose. If I told them what she was really doing they would think she was kooky and I was off my rocker for taking one of her workshops.

And so I remain silent.  

This is a sad thing because her course, which was called, “Foundations of Mediumship and Channeling Spirit,” was the most profound life experience I’ve had in a long time and I’d like to tell others all about it. She set up the course in the inquiry based learning method that she was trained for in University, where she guides her students, using prompted course material and then encourages them to follow their interests and get engaged. When you are delving into sensing energy and connecting with spirit there is a lot of practising and stepping out of one’s comfort zones. Especially when you get thrown into a group Zoom energy meeting. This scared the pants off me the first time I started practising reading with spirit guiding me but I also found it invigorating. It was a bit like riding a bike that had been leaning against the wall for twenty years, and suddenly I found my balance with ease and was flying downhill gleefully.  

During meditation, almost every day, I’d ask the big question from my spirit team, “what’s the message today?” My heart chakra would glow a gem like green and the first message I would invariably receive was, “you are so loved.” Now that might not seem like a profound message but it shifted my world this month. I mean, who doesn’t feel good when their angels, spirit guides, and ascended masters appear and tell them that they are loved! I even had my mom and dad come forward one day, which was a lovely reunion. They were smiling, clapping and generally cheering me on and before they stepped back, they reminded me that I am loved. 

The course ended officially this morning. In the afternoon I was sitting on our window seat in the kitchen, a steaming cup of peppermint tea warmed my hands and our Siamese cat Yuuki was  curled up next to me, snoozing peacefully without a care in the world, as cats tend to do. I was dreamily looking out the kitchen window. The lake below our house was a stormy blue and the rolling waves were capped a frothy white. Although warm weather is predicted tomorrow, the mountains surrounding our valley stand ready, preparing them themselves for the pending arrival of snow. Fall is quickly moving through the door and winter will soon be our new guest. 

I took a deep breath in and for a moment everything was still, quiet and peaceful. At a time when much of the world is going to sleep, I’m wide awake. I feel like a crystal snowflake, perfect and uniquely brilliant and now connected to so many other shining lights in the world. As we get closer and closer to the winter solstice and the days grow shorter, I’ve been thinking about the day when the sun stands still. In celebration I think I’ll light a candle and go outside and say, 

“I’m ageless and I’m loved.”

I can remain silent no longer.

If you too are wide awake and wanting to join a community of light filled people, check out Alyssa’s web site below and sign up to be on her mailing list for an upcoming course or ask her for a one on one meeting. She has an active FB group called, “The Inn of Story Nights,” and she is the Innkeeper. I hope on the shortest day of the year you open the door and join us for a hearth fire gathering. There is magic and community there.

The link to her website is http://www.innkeeperarr.com/

This is a picture I took of Alyssa last Christmas helping me work out the bugs in my computer.

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope/aka….Lee

Life in A SNOW globe

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We’ve been living under the shadow of this Covid 19 pandemic for 18 months now and I’ve hardly posted on my blog. That may not sound like a long time but it’s the longest year and a half of my life. Normally an optimistic, glass half full, everything is rosy type person, this pandemic has wiped hope from my days and left me feeling dry and brittle, like a broken shell lying on the beach. I haven’t even had the energy to write, which tells you how dark things have gotten, since writing is my cathartic release for processing life events. But today, after the kids were safely off at school I thought I’d better sit down and start typing to find that little piece in me that holds the light. To find that light I need to travel back.

I invite you along the journey, for your light may help me find mine.

For my family this pandemic became real when we found out that our daughter Grace’s high school trip to the U.K. was cancelled. She was to leave on March 15th, 2020 and be in Ireland wearing green and celebrating St. Paddy’s day on the 17th. We were in a state of flux for several days before the planned departure day and then our Provincial health officer, Bonnie Henry, advised people to cancel trips, which our school district promptly did. A few days later, our Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced that our National borders would be closed as of March 18th. That settled any idea of travelling in or out of our country. Our daughter Grace’s trip to the U.K. would not happen and our older son Mitchell, who had been in Australia for the past year, would not be coming home until the borders opened again.

I think that was the first day my depression crept silently into our house, like a small grey mouse looking for a bread crumb.

Spring break arrived and while we revelled in the momentary halt in our world’s rotation, we also spent large moments huddled around our T.V. set waiting for news about the spreading virus. Restrictions came one after the other. First, with recommendations for people to isolate in place and distance themselves. In the beginning, our health authorities didn’t insist on masks but I thought that must be a mistake. Wasn’t this a respiratory virus and wouldn’t we want to prevent the virus from entering our mouth and nose? Eventually, masks were mandated and our family’s back door ledge became a mask filled epitaph and our new bohemian decor was replete with hand sanitizing bottles which littered our house.

At first, it was a lark and an adventure and we took the task on with abundant enthusiasm. After all, this was our opportunity to spend more time with our kids and also guide their learning in areas that we viewed were important. We spent our mornings studying math, science, English, and socials. The kids had more time to practice their music and after lunch we went on long hikes up the mountain behind our house. Tea time at 3 pm was relished by all as we sat outside savouring the muffins and scones we had made together; an opportunity to teach fractions, measurement and a life skill. Later in the afternoon we scattered around the living room, settling into the various chairs and couches, pulling blankets over ourselves like we were heading into a long winter hibernation. We plowed through novel after novel in this state and some of us had lovely naps.

Kate, Will and Tori on the mountain behind our house. Almost everyday we went on this hike during our homeschooling year together.

At first, I was in a state of bliss, lulled into this isolation novelty but as summer arrived and the pandemic situation didn’t improve, I wondered if life would ever normalize. Throughout that spring and summer our world shook again as we watched incidence, like the murder of George Floyd, a black man who took his last breath under the knee of an abusive police officer in the States. Sadly, this wasn’t an isolated incident and while we were all sequestered like jurors in court, we watched similar events occur again and again. Black Lives Matter rallies were held and then far right advocates and white supremacist crawled out of the wood work like ants after sugar to spread their message of hate. We watched in horror as the U.S. coped with civil unrest but sadly it wasn’t isolated to one country. While the world came to a screeching halt due to the pandemic, we had a moment to glimpse how minorities are treated all over the world. Here in Canada, a microscope clearly illuminated the horrid treatment our Indigenous peoples have experienced throughout the ages and continue despite our journey towards Truth and Reconciliation.

I cried every day.

Then a huge shake up came in the fall of 2020 when the United States held their election and all hell seemed to break loose as the Republican president Trump was voted out of office in favour of Biden, a democrat. There were riots and protests and the snow globe was shaken again, this time causing a blizzard of epic proportions. The world shook as Democracy in the U.S. was on trial., This historic event seemed to crack open the darkest corners of our world and hate mongers flooded out of the darkness, like the wicked witch’s flying monkeys from the Wizard of Oz movie. Throughout it all, like Dorothy, I just wanted to go home; back to life before the storm. (If you want a image of this click on the video below)

In the fall of 2020, the spark I felt when we started homeschooling blew out and our days dragged as we trudged through the curriculum set out by the Province. Our youngest daughter Kate hated math so much that each morning was a new battle. Her twin Victoria, was flying through the lessons, trying hard to please and do her best but became extremely anxious whenever we left the house on our rare and infrequent big grocery shops. She’s hung onto us like she’d never see us again as we opened the garage door. Her hands were also clear indicators of her fears, as they were red and raw from her constant washing and hand sanitizing.

At age 11, all of our son William’s work was done on line and he quickly got sucked into the vortex of the ether world, coming away from the blue screen looking disengaged and blurry eyed. In hindsight, I wished we hadn’t join the School District’s V Learn program as it didn’t work for us. We should have taken the leap and became independent homeschoolers but I didn’t want our children to lose their spots in our coveted elementary school. If we had become homeschooling rebels, we would have had to register in a different school once the pandemic was over and I knew our children wanted to return to their former school. We did our best day by day but it wore us all down.

That little grey mouse found more than a crumb and grew bigger every day.

Finally, in February of 2021, a glimmer of light started to shine through the dark clouds of the pandemic. Several vaccines were being rolled out and our oldest population, being the most vulnerable, were slowly being vaccinated. Surely it was only a matter of time before our whole population would be protected from this virus.

Spring arrived but the snow kept falling….above Victoria and Will on our deck greeting another snow fall.

With the vaccination hope, despite the fact that the pandemic wasn’t over, a new school term was beginning in February 2021, so we decided to send our children back to school for the spring session. We had home schooled them almost a year by this point and they wanted to see their friends again. We had a few scares when our children were exposed to others who contracted Covid 19 and we had to self isolate but thankfully, none of us ever became sick. The school year ended and by mid summer our whole family was vaccinated. Everyone except our twin daughters, who are only ten, and the vaccine hasn’t been approved for them yet.

I’m not going to go in depth here regarding the extremely hot weather we experienced this past summer and the drought that ensued or the hundreds of forest fires raging in our Province. I did want to touch on it though as the air quality was so bad for most of the summer that we could hardly see the lake right below our house. One day we had an evacuation alert and felt what it must have been like for so many people in our province who had to leave their homes due to the fires. That gave us a sense of being trapped in the glass dome and having no where to go. Scary!

The health of our earth has to be a priority or we as a species will not survive.

I thought by the time fall of 2021 arrived the snow would finally settle and we would be moving into a post Covid world but then the big hand shook the globe and we stumbled around looking for the light despite another raging storm with a pending National election along with this fourth wave. Anti Maskers and vaccine protesters spilled into the streets defying common sense, creating havoc in our world. And instead of party leaders telling us what they would do to get us out of this pandemic or deal with the climate crisis, they kept ranting and raving that this election should not have been held during a pandemic. That was no help at all in my opinion and frankly I’m tired of our country’s leaders acting like five year olds that haven’t learned to get a long with each other….but I digress.

Scientists have been warning us that this Corona virus keeps evolving and mutating and unless we achieve herd immunity, we will never be free of it. I recently read a joke on my Facebook feed page that said, “I swear we are fighting two pandemics right now; the Coronavirus and Stupidity.” It looks like we may be in this pandemic awhile longer judging from those few who believe it’s all about their rights that are being taken away. Obviously these people don’t care about the greater good for our society.

Today is the first day of fall and with the transition of seasons it causes me to reflect. A realization that we may never know normal again and if it comes, it will only be a false sense of calm. With the climate crisis banging loudly on our doorsteps, I fear we either choose to don our warmest coats and hats to weather the next storm or find a big hammer to break the glass. I believe I will choose the latter, ’cause I’m holding the vision of a tiny piece of hope lying amongst all that fake snow.

I want to thank you for holding a space of light for me to write this piece.

Over the last year and a half I know this pandemic has touched us all differently and that phrase, “we are in the same storm but not in the same boat,” is so true. No matter where you are along your journey, I hope you will help me lift this hammer to break the glass ’cause I’m tired of having someone else shake the globe.

The only way for us to get out of this storm is together. And the thought that we are together brings me hope.

Until we connect again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

Buddha Bowls~Be Safe, Have Fun

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The words “be safe, have fun,” keep reverberating through my brain. They were the last things I said to my two kids, who left on adventures this week. My son Mitchell, who will be off on a grand adventure to Australia at the first of March, left on a west coast road trip this past week. Seeing Portland, Oregon has always been on his bucket list and saying goodbye to his best friend in Victoria before he goes to Aussie land, was a must. Then our sixteen year old daughter Grace, joined her school jazz band this morning, as they traveled down to Moscow Idaho’s big jazz fest.

I hope they both enjoy their journeys.

Saying goodbye is never easy for me. If you have read many of my posts, I may have shared a bit of my past and how my Dad was killed in a truck accident when I was young. Who knew, as I sat on his lap, while he drank the last of his morning coffee, that I would never see him again. While that may be morose, the knowledge that we may never see our loved one after they walk out the door, has settled deep in my bones. I have to resist clinging, but with a quick hug and a jaunty wave I say, “be safe, have fun.” Inside, I’m tearfully praying, “Bring them back to me.”

But the truest part of me knows, they are okay. They will always be okay.

So…..

I let go and trust.

What else can a mom do?

Mitchell as he heads off on his Oregon, Vancouver Island/West coast trip

And what do Buddha Bowls have to do with all of this? Well, I was thinking about how Siddhartha Gautama, who was later referred to as, Buddha, the one who is awake, was born into a royal family in a small kingdom on the Indian-Napalese border. He left all his wealth behind to adventure into the world and discover what was the meaning of life. He wandered the country side, like a traditional holy man of the day, seeking the Truth. He became very adept at meditation under various teachers, and then took up ascetic practices. This was based on the belief that one could free the spirit by denying the flesh. He practiced austerities, to such a strict degree that he almost starved to death.

I wondered how his mom felt as he left home?

What words of wisdom did she impart?

Also, while I don’t know this for sure, I wonder if he too, like many holy men of his day, carried an empty bowl, trusting that he would be fed. There are certainly pictures of Buddha carrying a beggar’s bowl.

As my children head out into the world, on their adventures, I visualize light surrounding them and a full bowl in their hands. I’m trusting my gut, knowing that I can’t hold on to them. They are their own people. I must let go, to allow them to find their own truth; their meaning of life. And while they are away, I will prepare my Buddha bowls and smile, knowing that wherever they travel, they will be fed.

If Buddha’s mom knew that her son would become a spiritual teacher and become enlightened, would it have been easier for her to say goodbye I wonder?

And thinking of being filled and enlightened, I hope you will now join me in my kitchen. We can make a cup of green, or ginger tea, and you can help chop the vegetables so we can make a bowl brimming with goodness; a blissful thing to behold and eat. We need nothing more in our day. Oh and we can chat about what we really, REALLY need in life?

And as we chat I will tell you what I have learned about the Buddha bowl.

Apparently, I’m coming to the party late, or rather, for years now, I was throwing a party for my family and didn’t realize a Buddha themed party was going on around us. Years ago, I took a course called, “The Pursuit of Excellence,” which was a three part, intensive course, put on by the Concept Training Corp. The second part of the course was called, “The Wall,” which took place on Orcas Island, off the coast from Seattle. It was there, that I discovered, Tai Chi, Buddha bowls, and the power of vision boards. That was thirty years ago, long before the trend of Buddha bowls became popular. Then Seventeen years ago, I was invited to visit the Birken Monastery, outside of Kamloops, B.C. for a weekend with my sister C, and her whole yoga class. It was there that I discovered Buddha bowls again.

An image from the Birken Monastery near Kamloops, B.C.

Since then, I’ve been making Buddha breakfast bowls, and lunch and dinner ones; in the morning having oatmeal, fruit and nuts and seeds, and mid day and for dinner, mixing brown rice, or noodles, a bit of stir fry or fresh, raw veggies, pieces of avocado, or a few slices of orange, a sprinkling of nuts and seeds and calling it my “Wall,” dinner or my “Bliss” bowl.

Anyway, a Buddha bowl is comprised of ; something made of grains or starch, such as rice, quinoa, noodles, or sweet potatoes. Then a smattering of protein, such as beans, chick peas, tofu, or meat. (and no, as I will explain later, a Buddha bowl does not have to be strictly a vegan one, although that would be most Buddha- like) And then you add colourful vegetables, raw or lightly steamed, your choice. Finally, you top the whole works with seeds, nuts, avocado for some healthy fat, and some sort of drizzly sauce. Let your bowl be a thing of beauty. Many bloggers have done a piece on Buddha bowls in the last few years. I found one that I really liked called the “Healthy Maven,” and she wrote her Ultimate Buddha Bowl Blog, almost 31/2 years ago. Check out the link to her blog as her Buddha bowl is perfect with lots of greens in it. YUM!

Many people now, who do Instagram like to share what they eat. I know when my son Harrison made a Buddha bowl during the holidays, he was pulling his phone out. Who knew it would be hip to show what you are eating.

Here is a snap of Harrison’s breakfast Buddha bowl

So while making a Buddha bowl is easy, I think the hard part of it, and the thing that sometimes is lost in translation for many, is the idea to eat slowly, mindfully and with a grateful heart. Also, the bowl need not be brimming over. As I watch our little Kathryn eat, I realize that she eats so slowly that by the time the rest of us have finished our meals and are looking for dessert, she is full and has eaten only half of the contents in her bowl. She eats carefully and seems to relish each bite. Oh to watch her eat tomatoes and avocados with such a beautiful smile on her face, inspires me to chew slower.

Savour the flavour.

Kathryn, last summer, looking at a bowl of peach cobbler and ice cream

Certainly when I was on Orcas Island, hitting the proverbial wall, the facilitators from the Concept Training Corp, were ahead of their time, reminding us as we ate in silence, “to contemplate each bite and be grateful for the food.” I think many of the people at this work shop had big issues with the food over that long weekend, as it was sparse. Many pointed out, when we came out of the silence part of the course, that they had paid big bucks for the course, many traveled far, and they didn’t appreciate sleeping in frigid, boy scout cottages, on rough, wooden bunk beds. And the breakfast oatmeal and rice and veggies for dinner were not cutting it for many. Most people hit the wall with regards to their comforts in life. But not me. Nope! I was in my element. The limited food allowed me to think clearer and the silence allowed me to find deep peace. Trusting others however is when I hit my wall on Orcas.

Harrison making another Buddha bowl over Christmas
On a bed of rice, there was vegetables, chicken, and some avocado slices

Years later, when I traveled with C to the Buddhist Monastery, I found that the two healthy meals a day, inter mixed with meditation and yoga allowed me to focus on my inward journey. And when it was meal time, I was heightened to the food’s texture, flavour and colour. I was also intrigued later to learned that the monks, while they preferred to eat a vegan or vegetarian diet, were thankful for any contribution that people offered them. If meat was given, it would be cooked lovingly and eaten with the same reverence and gratitude they held for their vegan or vegetarian fare. They blessed all food that was given to them and they were thankful for each mouthful.

Ever since the Wall, I ve enjoyed a bowl of oatmeal each morning with some apples and cinnamon…..being ever grateful for each bite

While our older children may scoff inward at our habit of saying thanks before our meals, as they search for their own ideas of spirit and God, I know that being grateful for the food we are about to eat, is an important aspect of allowing it to be used well by our bodies; to nourish and to bless.

There is power in blessing our food.

My sister’s birthday party reminded me that less is more…beans, rice and veggies is all we need

Last November we went to my sister C’s house to celebrate her birthday. Her husband D put on a wonderful spread, even though we said we were just coming for afternoon tea. D had been simmering beans all morning and had a big pot of rice, colourful tortilla chips, and a vegetable platter all laid out beautifully in their kitchen. The meal was served in simple white bowls.

My sister J, and in the background is my husband David enjoying his Buddha Bowl of beans and rice…veggies
My brother in law B, who just celebrated his birthday a few days ago
my sister C’s family dog, Coco…I think they call her Coco bean….she was sleeping when I took this picture and she just looked up…isn’t she a sweetie…my daughter Victoria would say, “all you need in life is a dog!”
We made these crazy little instruments made out of wood and elastics and C is trying to blow the tune to Happy Birthday on her’s….happy Birthday C!
What a wonderful Buddha Bowl birthday meal we had at C’s party last
while this isn’t the greatest picture…if you look above C’s head, hanging above their fireplace is the windchime I made for C’s birthday…J and I were finishing it off on the car ride to their place…good memories!!!…the round bits are bracelets that C gave to me…and the header is from our birch tree.

Anyway, THAT meal, inspired me to pull out my mother in law’s old, brown, bean pot. Under my brother in law D’s suggestions, I now soak our beans, (usually pinto and black beans, but navy beans are great too) the night before. In the morning, I rinse and drain the beans and pour them into the bean pot. Then I saute onions, garlic, green peppers, and add a bag of frozen tomatoes, from our last summer’s harvest. Add a few cups of water, and some cumin, a few pieces of dried chili pepper, some barbecue sauce, a bit of apple cider vinegar and some brown sugar. I add that all to the bean pot and cook it all morning at 300 degrees in the oven. I check it every hour and stir often. As it thickens, I add more water until the beans are nice and soft. Later, I make a pot of brown rice, a big green salad, pull out a bag of tortilla chips and I have dinner and a lunch for the kid’s thermos the next day. Another Buddha bowl type dinner!

It’s all we really need in a day.

And although Victoria put her dinner on a plate, it looks great in a bowl!

So whatever you fill your bowl with each day, I hope your heart is filled with loving kindness and compassion. For without those, in my opinion we are truly empty. And the next time you see someone on the street, think of Buddha’s empty bowl and give something to that stranger, it doesn’t have to be much, even a smile, for that stranger is is my son, or my daughter.

And before I close, as I often do, I wanted to share a video of George Harrison singing, “Give me Love~give me peace” For some reason when I think of Buddha, George’s music comes to mind. I hope you like it as much as I do.

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

The More We Have

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Merry Christmas!….it’s good to be back.

This year end blog post, is basically centered on the theme of Henry David Thoreau’s quote below.

~”Most of the luxuries and many of the so-called comforts of life are not only not indispensable, but positive hindrances to mankind”~   

It’s timely is it not? After all, the weeks leading up to the holidays are consumer driven, as we purchase the non essentials in life, to bestow on those we love.

 While there were many times I started writing on this theme, and I certainly talked to many people about it throughout the year, it took a recent event to help me find clarity on the subject.

Also, it was a tough year for me. In my often, ummm, can I say depressed state, the last thing I wanted to do was write a non inspiring post. After all, this is suppose to be where you can find hope. She was clearly absent.

 

My best friend T, gave me this ornament years ago…later in this post I will tell you about how T’s visit shifted my perspective at the end of this year

Unwrapping the last days of this year, has allowed me to see the gem of wisdom that 2018 gave me. But first, before I show you how well it glitters, I’d like to travel back over the year, sharing how this unusual year unfolded for me.

Have you ever had one of those years, where almost everything you own, stopped working? Well, if I were to describe 2018, it would be the year of “experiencing possession hell.”

It literally started on New Years Day when David was taking the older kids home after Christmas. While driving over the mountains to the coast, a car flew by our van, and a rock was thrown up, hitting and smashing our sun roof. That was the first incident heralding a difficult year for us. The next item to crash was my computer. 

I had really wanted to join my writing group in January, for what was meant to be a “diving deeper session,” but without my main writing tool, it was impossible to write. I have been limping along using the kid’s desk top computer, (which I’m writing on now) but it’s been agonizing to write in our computer niche, which is basically in the hall between all the children’s bedrooms, a thriving thoroughfare. Not in the least, conducive for writing.

Then all sorts of little things throughout the spring stopped working; our lawn mower and trimmer, David’s coffee maker, our toaster, the microwave to name only a few.

Our new lawnmower, after our old one died

In June, we had a terrible wind and rain storm. I awoke in the dead of night, to hear William whisper urgently, “there is water coming into our house.” When I went to investigate, water was flooding down the stairwell. As it turned out, our sky light had blown off our roof and rain was pouring in, which damaged our wood floors, caused water stains on our drywall, and of course, the sky light was badly scratched. Of course, the roofers, who had just replaced our roof the year before, denied being responsible for “NOT” screwing our sky light down when they laid down the new shingles

This was also the month that we were finally having the air conditioner replaced, although we did know the summer before that this would be on our list. Still, it was a biggie and you know, it’s always such a pain getting contractors to quote and then actually do the job. We had started looking for someone to purchase it from in April and it had taken months to actually have it installed!

After what seemed like forever, the new air conditioner was installed

Finally, cool air was blowing in our house in time for our summer guests to arrive  but then one morning, I woke up and there was no hot water. Yikes! Yes, our hot water tank needed to be replaced.

At this point, I threw up my hands and wondered what was next. What was next, ended up being new tires for our little car, (the back tire literally shredded to bits while I was driving with the kids to what was suppose to be a frugal camping experience, HA!) When we came back from that trip, our pool pump stopped pumping, and then, gee, while we are at it, we might as well replace the solar cover for the pool too, since it was falling apart.

Here is a snap of our little Fit being loaded onto a tow truck trailer after we blew a tire on the way to our camping trip. It was blistering hot as we waited on the side of the road for David to come and collect us in the van.

Well, this went on and on, with one item after another breaking down. Somewhere along the way, we got our two University bound sons off to their respective schools, the van loaded down with various furniture pieces, their Dad had constructed for them throughout the summer. I thought things would let up, as we headed into fall but nope, and in fact, as I write this blog post, David just got the part for our garage door opener, and thankfully, it was the right one. He was able to take the whole thing apart and put the necessary part in himself. It’s handy, to have a handy-man in the house. What would we have done if he was not so, I don’t know. 

What was the worst thing about this whole year you may ask? It was my depression. I was mentally broken. I can’t pin point when it started but with each thing that needed to be replaced or repaired, it took a piece of light out of me. And until recently, I felt disconnected with the world. When I look back at pictures of myself, I seem to be there but trust me, I was living in a fog of sadness.

But as life may have it, something happened to help me see my life in a different light. My dearest friend came for a visit in November. We don’t live close any longer, but thankfully, she still has family in our area and she often takes time to visits me when she does come to our little town. It was so good to see her and we caught up on each other’s lives in a few hours. You know you have a BEST friend when you can pick up exactly where you left off, even though you may not see each other for months.

This is for you T……

When I waved goodbye to her, I realized that she had brought me a huge gift. You see, her mom, and her younger sister, had both been recently diagnosed with cancer within months of each other. Throughout the fall, they had both been dealing with surgery and treatment for their disease. My dear friend was holding everything together for her family.  Somehow, she has been caring for her immediate family, (as well as a family friend who was living with them)  holding down a job, helping her oldest daughter to plan a wedding, spear heading many of her youngest daughter’s grade 12 grad events/fundraisers, while all the time coming up to the Okanagan to offer support and care for her extended family. When T’s navy blue car was finally out of sight, I walked back into my home, sighing deeply. 

Something inside of me shifted.

A little piece of light shone.

When I look at the list of  “THINGS,” that had broken in my life, I realized I was dealing with first world problems. Also, nothing can compare to when you have someone sick in your family.

It was all just stuff. Although it had been a really tough year on our pocket book, somehow David had earned the money to cover our expenses. Also, when I looked at my list; “sun roofs, sky lights, air conditioners, pool pumps,” etc, I realized how blessed we are!!! To even have these things in  life is incredible. What really hit me was, “the more we have, the less focus we have on what is truly important.” Our family, our friends, our community, our world.

And when I look back on some of the highlights from our year, life was full of goodness, even if I was too blind at the time to recognize it. Here are a few moments from our 2018 year.

Early in the spring, David completed our cool attic space, in time for Harrison to return from University. Although he changed the “Relax,” sign to “Carpe Diem.”

 

Harrison home from his first year at University

 

Mitchell came home too for a short visit. The weather was beautiful and it was a nice respite for him after a challenging year of University. Soon he would graduate.

 

The Second String Trio (Will, Kate and Tori) throw a few late spring concerts

 

 

 

 

 

 

Will got a kayak for his 9th birthday and we are all excited for him….can we try it out?

I planted our garden late in the year, but we had abundance, after abundance, even though our Province was covered in smoky skies from all the forest fires.

 

We went to the Island to see Mitchell graduate and had a delightful visit in my sister B.’s guest suite at B and J’s strata complex. The kids love, LOVE their dog Dugan

 

A pod of killer whales were spotted while we were on the ferry..wow!

Then we went to Victoria to attend Mitchell’s graduation from U ViC, proudly holding his new science degree diploma.

Guess what? My oldest had her ten year grad reunion last July. . Here she is visiting with our kitty Ryuuki before she heads off to one of the planned grad reunion events.

And right after Alyssa’s grad reunion, we left on the fateful camping trip, where our car blew a tire. We had to have the car towed to Salmon Arm and then have four new tires installed!

Grace, above in the bright orange shirt, turned 15 last year and this past summer, got a job at the water slides. The kids and I spent several summer days hanging out watching her say, “go…okay, you can go….go, ….no, don’t go…”…you get the idea.

 

In July, we had a memorable family get together at my sister J’s house…the one that lives in the country with an amazing house/property

 

The kids jumped and jumped all summer long…on the trampoline, in the pool, off the wharf at the country club.

 

While the little kids jumped, Harrison and Clark worked hard as landscapers….Clark worked 5 days a week and then on the 6th he worked at the Science Centre….The guys had great tans and amazing muscles by the end of summer…thanks for digging up one of our mugho shrubs boys!

Then before we knew it, Clark was off to U of A, where he had been accepted into their law program. All thumbs up Clark!

And then it was Harrison’s turn…not the best picture but the kids were up super early to say good bye to Harrison. David looks really tired as he just came back from driving to Edmonton, where he dropped Clark off…now he is off to Victoria with Harry….what a crazy summer!

And before we knew it, the kids were back to school and it was clean up time around the yard. Thanks Kate, and thanks chickens. Sadly, we lost one of our chicks this fall…but as I type this, the other three are probably cuddling together under the heat lamp.

 

Another highlight of our year, was when Harrison came home in November for reading week and brought a special person into our lives. It was lovely getting to know D better. Using a coin expression I’ve picked up from when Alyssa was in London, “Don’t they look brilliant!”

Then it was David’s birthday, my birthday, my sister C’s birthday, then Grace’s 16th birthday and finally, just a few days ago, Clark came home on his birthday and we celebrated his birthday too

Amidst all of those birthdays, it was time to decorate for Christmas….

And finally there were concerts, and concerts and concerts…I’m not kidding! Today, was finally the last one…oh that is until Christmas day when the kids will throw us another concert…it’s their gift to us. It’s my favourite one of the year though, as it’s in the comfort of our home.

As I wrap up 2018, I can look at it kindly and say, thank you. It was a year of immense lessons. When so many people in the world are starving, when many families are struggling to give their children a better life, when families are facing major health issues, or losing loved ones, how can I be depressed over our material wealth?

I gave myself a good kick in the pants, pulled up my socks and threw myself into the act of counting my blessings and giving to others. There is so much goodness in my life and this year, I basically slept through it all in a fog of depression. I vow to do better tomorrow, in the days ahead, and in the upcoming year. 

I also want to take more time and reevaluate our material possessions. I read two interesting books this past fall, “Meet the Frugalwoods,” and “You can buy happiness, (and it’s cheap!).” Both books had me really thinking again about material possessions and simplicity. I know for me, when I choose to NOT buy into the consumer driven culture, when I’m creative, when I make things from scratch, etc, I’m more content and happier.

Elizabeth Willard Thames, the Author of Meet the Frugalwoods…a must read if you want simplicity in your life

A good example, is our trip to the mountains once again to cut down our Christmas trees. (BTW, they are under the power lines and would be cut down anyway.) They are beautiful. No, they are not full and huge, like a cultured tree, or a fake one. Instead, they are organic looking, natural and real. Did I mention how delightfully fragrant they are too? Instead of buying a tree stand, David and I put our thinking caps on and filled a large bucket with small round rocks from our yard and filled it with water. Guess what? It works great and didn’t cost a thing.

Along the lines of simple living, I’m knitting our little girl scarves for Christmas and David has been in Santa’s workshop again this year making them a Barbie house. Our oldest daughter is also getting something special from the workshop, but as she often reads my blog, I will refrain from spoiling the surprise.

 

Despite it being Freezing in the garage, David, aka, Santa, built the little girls a doll house for their barbies….in the picture it’s not painted but it is now and it’s very cottagy…is that a word? We have plans to make some furniture and a fireplace with little pea gravel glued on…the top of the doll house comes off so it can turn into a shelf unit when the little girls outgrow Barbie’s.

The point is though, that for me anyway, making things, if we have to have “things,” is more satisfying than earning the money and buying stuff. More stuff that will just break. And you know what brings me the most joy? Doing little things that help others. Although we didn’t have a lot extra in the budget this year, we were able to buy some baking from our school’s girls group, who were using the proceeds to purchase goats for third world families. We gave some gently used toys to our community’s local toy drive, (and a new one too) and all the kids dropped food into our school’s food bank bins. It’s not much, but it makes me smile and realize, I have so much.

So how was your 2018? What did it teach you about your life and how you are living it? Often, it’s the times in our life when we are down on our knees crying, that we learn the most about life. I don’t think we always need to suffer though to learn. We need to open our hearts, open our eyes and realize how blessed we are.

As the year closes, I hope you know that one of my blessings is you. I’m thankful to have a few people who make a cup of tea and come to read my posts.

Christmas is only a few days away and with it comes the season of light, love and  hope. It’s hope that lit my way this year. Now if I can spread a bit of that around, my holiday will really be full of joy. Funny how that works hey?….when you give of yourself, the joy of giving floods back into your life.

What do you want for Christmas?

I hope your holiday is merry and bright and magic fills your heart. I thought I would end this post with one of my fav newer Christmas songs. “When Christmas Comes to Town,” from the Polar Express movie, is played, it WHOOSHES me back to when I was a little girl. A little girl whose father had just died and she was struggling to still believe in the unseen. Was Santa real? Where did her Dad go? I sometimes wonder if this material world is real.

I think it’s just an illusion to get me to look deeper.

Merry Christmas!

and happy New Year! It will undoubtedly be full of new experiences and lessons. (Also, in my case, my daily mantra will be, “All things are working in my life!)

Until we meet again, may you be well, happy and peaceful.

Blessings from Hope

(This blog post is dedicated to my dear friend T, her mom, and sister. You are not alone. Your struggles touch the world as we are all connected. “Be well.”) Continue reading →