Welcome To The Old Fart's Blog

Thus, Another Chapter Comes To An End.

2011-09-06T01:29:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow will be the last day I will be drivng the McDonalds Shuttle Van as the Eastbound and Westbound Service Centres on the 401 are coming to a close on 7 September thanks to "Premier Dim Wit" and his band of "Village Idiots" who are runing this province. I hope I am here long enough in October to vote this bunch out of office.

It was a fun job whilst it lasted and I got to meet a lot of nice people and did get fed for Half Price. An added bonus was I got to know Cambridge inside and out and the Short Cuts to getting around. Now that I have a better knowledge of Cambridge, as the Locals still call depending from which they come, Preston, Hespeler or Galt.

I do have a couple of decisions to make, But like Scarlet O'Hara said in Gone With The Wind, "I'll think about that Tomorrow".

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

It's Been A Spell

2011-09-01T11:18:00.005-04:00

It has been a spell since I've written anything down. Some of you have probably thought I left without a Goodbye. Others are probably wondering about Hector and the Rattlesnake.

It is a year ago that Haimish and Alexander and I were on that journey to a new start. Actually a year ago we were traveling in Northern Ontario, approaching the half way point. When I close my eyes and think back I can relive that trip. I can even relive part of the trip to Alberta in 1996.

I sometimes wonder if making the move East was really a smart thing to do. It is nice being around the family, one of the main reasons I moved, but there are no jobs here that pay well. I do like it here, compared to Calgary; Cambridge, Kitchener/Waterloo is just a nice a place to live. There just are no jobs to speak of. Oh there are lots of parttime jobs with low pay and no benefits but how does one live on that.

It was a really bad first 7 months in 2011. After losing a job that I really didn't want anyway {just took out of desperation to survive}, after this there was nothing except the Government Employment Insurance I was given which amounted to $800.00 a month. Then in April I got hired by a school bus company and had my C Licence {Drivers} upgraded to the B Licence {Something I already came with from Alberta} and got driving School Bus for about a couple of months then school was let out.

Foutunately a couple of weeks before school let out for the Summer I found a job on Kijiji for a driver's position. It was a job taking the Crew between the Eastbound and Westbound 401 McDonalds and Cambridge. The McDonalds are just east of Cambridge at Service Rest Centres along Highway 401, which runs from the Ontario/Quebec boundry to the Ontario/US Border at Windsor, Ont.

When I was hired for the position I was told the both Service Centres were closing down just after Labour Day. Thanks to the current Premiere and his ruling party {which by the way I hope I am here long enough to Vote Out come the Provincial Election in October}. I told the Manager I'd still like to come onboard so training started two weeks before school let out.

The job entails taking the Crew to work, then when at the store taking crew that started earlier home. The process starts all over again when the last Bairn is dropped of at their home and we begin to pick up more Bairns for the next shift start. There are two Vans running all the time and start in the Early Morning and finish up at Midnight. Oh ask me about all the Short Cuts in Cambridge {Galt, Hespeler and Preston}, I can tell you how to avoid the Delta at Rush Hour for one.

It is a fun job and I got to meet a lot of nice staff and I will miss taking my Bairns to work and to home. But things are on the upswing. Those of you who are friends on the Facebook {something else I have lost the desire to use} get snippets of what I am up too. The lads and I may actually be moving back West. What is the saying "Go West Old Fart". I am in talks with getting a job in Alberta. The company is in dire need of drivers they are hiring out of province drivers and will actually fly me out and back and whilst I am there working will put me up in the camps and feed me. It would be working 14 days on and having a week off. The money is more than what one could dream of.

For the time being I can fly back and forth between Ontario and Alberta, but eventually they want me to move back to Alberta and get my Alberta Drivers Licence. To be honest I miss the West, I miss the dry air {the humid July we had almost killed my Cats as well as me} I am not used to his Humid Air.

If I get the job and move back, there are going to be things I am going to miss here. Being close to the family, plus other things. I look back over that period from March to now and wonder how I survived. But we did and now it is only going to get better.

Can't promise how much I am going to be here, but hopefully I'll visit more than I did over the last few months.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Quilldancing Assignment #5

2011-05-15T12:25:00.001-04:00

Our "Quilly" has come up with a Fantastic Meme and instead of me trying to explain it, I'll let our Dear Quilly {The Immortal Bard} put it in Her Own Words.

Your Writing Assignment, should you choose to accept it, is to write a complete story in 500 words or less using the scenario below to kick-start your thinking. Publish your story on your blog May 15th, then come back here and link it to my May 15th story.

Here's The Prompt:

Since (traditionally) May is the month of flowers and gardens, your story should include a garden, some kind of critter or creature, and this wonderful log. (Photo courtesy of SouthLakes Mom.)

Here's The Photo:

Here's My Story:

♫ Whenever we kiss I worry and wonder,
Your lips may be here but where is your heart.
It's always like this I worry and wonder,
You're close to me here but where is your heart..♫

Blanche and Hector were walking through the woods looking for something for the Rock and Wild Flower garden they were planning together. Blanche had this song going through her head and she began to hum it to him. Hector coyly told his “Darling Bus Wench” that she’d never have to worry about that as long as he was with her. Blanche remembered the first time she heard this song; it was when she and Bernice went to the Wednesday Matinee at the Roxy Theatre when the movie “Moulin Rouge” opened in 1952.

In the distance they heard a train whistle, soon the local peddler way-freight passed by on the way to New Baden with Blanche and Hector getting a big wave from the Engineer in the locomotive. After the train passed, Hector then decided to show his Acrobatic Skills by walking along the top of the rail of the train tracks. He was pretending to be way up in the air on the High Wire in the Big Tent. Much to the consternation of Blanche who thought if Hector fell, well she didn’t want to think about it.

From Hector’s vantage point he saw something that would be perfect for the garden. Getting down from the top of the rail, he collected Blanche and they were off to see what he found. There it was, a bit of log with that hole through it. Hector thought it would be perfect for the Wild Garden they were preparing.

Soon as Blanche saw the log she knew it would be the ”Piece de Resistance” to her wild garden. But that was going to change, looking inside the hole they discovered a wee critter had taken up residence in the old log with it’s little ones. It looked like small field mouse or some similar like critter and both Hector and Blanche knew they couldn’t take the log, as it was sanctuary for the Wee Mouse and her Young Ins.

It was when they were on the way back they found a rock pile. Blanche headed off to find a rock or two for the garden. There it was the most perfect rock for the garden, Blanche knew just the spot she was going to put it. As Hector bent down to pick it up, he heard a buzz that he didn’t recognise. Blanche knew immediately what it was, but where was it coming from?

Blanche told Hector to be perfectly still. Blanche told him it was the buzz of a Rattlesnake’s tail. And just to the left of the rock pile, there it was. Hector was less than 15 meters from it. Blanche told Hector to slowly back away and to quietly step over to her.

Then the rattlesnake launched towards Hector with fangs exposed …………………………….

Here's the "Song" Blanche was singing to Hector.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Quilldancing Assignment #4

2011-04-15T22:36:00.006-04:00

Our "Quilly" has come up with a Fantastic Meme and instead of me trying to explain it, I'll let our Dear Quilly put it in Her Own Words.

I thought I’d start the year off by launching a new feature! I’ve been missing 3WT but not all the work involved. I thought I would try for something a bit more manageable that didn’t require hours of research.

Your Writing Assignment, should you choose to accept it, is to write a complete story in 500 words or less using the scenario below to kick-start your thinking. Publish your story on your blog April 15th, then come back here and link it to my April 15th story.

I have twelve writing assignments ready, one for the first day of every month. Every month! The stories are due on the 15th, even in April! (For anyone feeling skeptical, my January story is already written, and I won’t post a prompt I don’t already have a story for.)

Here's The Prompt:

As we all know, “April showers bring May flowers”. This month’s story should include a sudden rain fall and a recalcitrant umbrella. And, since this is National Poetry Month, your story should include a bit of poetry. You can write it yourself or use somebody else’s (be sure to give credit where credit is due); it can rhyme or not; as you wish. See you on the 15th!

As soon as I saw this I knew I'd have some fun with it. It would be a way for me to keep the continuing story of my Blanche going after Portrait of Words was discontinued.

PS, Those of you unfamiliar with my Continuing Story of Blanche MacNaughton ~ duVet and her family can acquaint themselves with the story in my Portrait of Words for which you can "Visit Here" and get yerself caught up. I would suggest you find your way to the very first entry and work your way back, as my Portrait of Words had a continuing Story. Something like those old Matinee Movie Serials of oh so long ago. If you so desire, you can "Visit Here" and start at the very first entry.

Here's My Entry.

♫ Isn't it rich? Are we a pair? Me here at last on the ground, You in mid-air. Send in the clowns………..♫ The rain was coming down hard and hitting the window pane with great fury. The sky had that dark dull colour to it and the wind was making the large old Maple Tree sway to and fro.

Blanche had a tear streaming down each from each eye as she listened to Judi Dench sing Stephen Sondheim’s “Send In The Clowns”. She found the Video on Youtube and had to listen to it over and over. It was an anniversary that Blanche didn’t like to see roll around.

It was a day pretty much like today when the phone rang with the news Frankie was crushed in a freak accident with the 100 pound sacks of bird seed. Blanche already had enough on her mind. Having the phone ring with the news was the last thing she needed. Frankie was the love of her life and her Knight in Shining Armor. What was she going to do now that he was gone? ……………………

Hector came in from the store, listening to the song on the computer play (Blanche found a way to have it repeat) he knew he needed to do something, but what? He knew it was about Frankie, and realised Blanche needed her space today. Frankie meant as much to Blanche as his Beloved Maria meant to him. Even though Hector loved Blanche with all his heart, there was still a little place in there put aside for Maria.

Hector came from behind and placed a hand on each shoulder he then nestled his chin against her right shoulder and just stood there. Blanche turned and smiled at Hector and knew that he was also missing his Maria.

She turned around and gently grabbed Hector around the waste and they slow danced to the song. Hector then began to cry and told Blanche that he didn’t think he’d ever be able to tell her how happy he was she came to find him in Cartegena those couple of years ago.

As the song played in the distance, Blanche and Hector felt the light in the room. Looking out the Living Room window of her Trailer, They found the rain let up and the evening turned into a glorious golden sunset. They went outside to smell the sweetness in the air after the rain and to watch the Sunset. And they wouldn't need that Umbrella that at the best of times didn't work properly.

Hector and Blanche stood with his arm around her Shoulder, and her arm around his waist. They both watched the Sun creep down past the horizon as they heard Judi sing the last couple of lines. ♫………………There ought to be clowns. Well, maybe next year♫.

"Visit Here" to listen to Judi's Version.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Succinctly Yours – A Microfiction Meme #1

2011-03-26T20:50:00.000-04:00

Grandma, over at "Grandma's Goulash" has resurrected "Susan's" Microfiction Monday. It is now titled "Succinctly Yours – A Microfiction Meme". The rules are pretty much the same, but there are some wee changes. Instead of just concentrating on 140 characters, one can now use up to 140 words if they so want.

To Quote Grandma: "Succinctly Yours will open on Monday, but you can post at any time during the week. Hope you’ll join in.".

Here is my entry:

The raspberries shot at Walter Cronkite, the arguing of whether to watch the Ballet on PBS or the Midget Wrestling on Channel 9. John Wayne’s Movies on the late show. The arguments with anyone who didn’t see the way the owner did. And Sammy’s Visit. Oh the Memories, the list was endless.

The journeys that chair took and everything it saw or as some would have said, witnessed. For years it sat in the same spot, in front of the Floor Model Colour Television. Beside the End Table with the Remote close at hand.

It wasn’t the same now that Archie and Edith were gone from the house on Hauser Street. Gloria would make sure Daddy's Chair would have its rightful place in the Sunny Window in her Home. Mum’s chair, well it would soon be placed beside Daddy’s.

Words, 138.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Back To Square 1

2011-03-17T21:22:00.001-04:00

I went into work on Monday, somehow I know it wasn't going to be a good day, and sat down at my computer and logged in. It was about a couple hours later I was being told my services were no longer required.

The reason they gave me was I took too long on my calls, and that I was calling help desk too much. They had no other reason. There was a union there, but like most unions it was as useless as..... you can fill in the blank. Why I went back to a call center environment I really haven't got a clue. I guess at that point I needed the job.

I won't say who they are, but the ad was full of lies. First of all it said it wanted Technical Guru's, It didn't. Next it said wages were $12.00 an hr, They weren't we were paid min wage. There were other things that were lies as well.

Part of me is glad that I am out of there. So since Monday, I've been looking for that dream job again. (This job was not a dream job). I've had some good leads, but really no bites yet. There is a School Bus company that wants to train me so as I can get my B Licence to drive Their Buses (I do miss driving my Bairns to school and home).

I also am part of a Local Community Group that Supports the Seniors of the Cambridge Kitchener/Waterloo area. I have three clients that I take care of by shoveling the snow from their Driveways and Walks. But this has come to an end with the Spring like weather. I applied for a job with this group, it is about 25 hrs a week. If I am lucky I will be a "Meals on Wheels Assistant".

My fingers are crossed that I get this job, as I've already been through the Police Background Check and place on the Snow Removal List. For each client I have I get paid a certain amount to shovel their places, the Client pays me.

I've also applied for other jobs, and some of them need me to apply. One is for a Limousine Company. When they found I worked for a Limo Company in Calgary before moving here but drove the Shuttle Buses, this Kitchener Supervisor requested I email in my Resume, Drivers Abstract, and Letter of Experience from my previous company in Calgary. They just want to see that I have a half decent driving record and that I didn't cause any grief.

Between looking for jobs and such, took some time to search for old Radio Files on the Internet. Two I came across are what follow. Listening to the Second One, I thought about Dr John and his Dragons. I thought it would be nice if he were here to be able to listen to it.

Well must close down for the evening, just wanted to let you know the news and to share a bit of fun with you.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Quilldancing Assignment #3

2011-03-15T00:01:00.005-04:00

Our "Quilly" has come up with a Fantastic Meme and instead of me trying to explain it, I'll let our Dear Quilly put it in Her Own Words.

I thought I’d start the year off by launching a new feature! I’ve been missing 3WT but not all the work involved. I thought I would try for something a bit more manageable that didn’t require hours of research.

Your Writing Assignment, should you choose to accept it, is to write a complete story in 500 words or less using the scenario below to kick-start your thinking. Publish your story on your blog March 15th, then come back here and link it to my March 15th story.

I have twelve writing assignments ready, one for the first day of every month. Every month! The stories are due on the 15th, even in April! (For anyone feeling skeptical, my January story is already written, and I won’t post a prompt I don’t already have a story for.)

Here's The Prompt:

The photo below reveals the main character of your story. Your tale must also include a 4 leaf clover and a golden key.

As soon as I saw this I knew I'd have some fun with it. It would be a way for me to keep the continuing story of my Blanche going after Portrait of Words was discontinued.

PS, Those of you unfamiliar with my Continuing Story of Blanche MacNaughton ~ duVet and her family can acquaint themselves with the story in my Portrait of Words for which you can "Visit Here" and get yerself caught up. I would suggest you find your way to the very first entry and work your way back, as my Portrait of Words had a continuing Story. Something like those old Matinee Movie Serials of oh so long ago. If you so desire, you can "Visit Here" and start at the very first entry.

Here's My Entry.

♫Flowers in her hair, …………. Flowers everywhere, ………. I love the Flower Girl♫

It was what seemed to be years since Blanche though of that song. She and Hector were in the park feeding the pigeons and just soaking up the warm spring sun. A mother came by and her “Wee Bairn” ran off to pick some of the wildflowers poking through the disheveled grass. The lawns in St Elmira’s Victoria Park haven’t been the same since “Old Man Periwinkle” retired and moved in with the “Widow Schultz”. But that’s another story…..

Watching the wee girl and the mother sitting on the lawn picking the wildflowers made Blanche harken back to a time long ago that is but now a cherished memory. Blanche couldn’t have been no more older than the wee child that she was watching. It was just before the outbreak of War with Germany and Canada’s Declaration of War, 10 September, 1939.

Blanche’s father Humphrey decided to take his Wee Blanche for a walk to get some ice cream. He was worried about what was happening in Europe and knew that War was on the horizon. Things didn’t go well with Chamberlain and Hitler, it was only a matter of time. Humphrey decided it might be awhile before he could take his beloved daughter for ice cream so this was going to be their “Special Day”.

They were taking a shortcut through the park when Blanche spied some wildflowers and quick as a blink was off on the run to pick them. Humphrey was off in pursuit of his daughter, that seemed to run as fast as the wind.

Catching up to Blanche, he sat down beside her and picked the wildflowers with his “Pooh Bear”. Blanche would love it when Daddy came in at bedtime and read from “Winnie-the-Pooh” until she fell asleep.

Humphrey decided to make a game of picking the wildflowers. He told his Pooh Bear if she could find a 4 Leaf Clover in the grass he’d have something special for her to keep forever. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out the brightest “Gold Key” that made Blanche look in awe with “Big Bright Eyes” and an “Open Mouth”. It was actually brass but to Blanche it was Gold

Blanche searched the grass of Victoria Park for that Four Leaf Clover. Not finding one she only had a look of despair on her face. Unbeknownst to Blanche, Humphrey found one in the grass. Taking his hand and placing it behind her ear, he said, “Look what I found Pooh Bear”. Between his thumb and index finger was the 4 Leaf Clover.

Placing the 4 Leaf Clover in Blanche’s palm he told his Pooh Bear it was her’s. Humphrey then placed the Gold Key in her palm and said “For you Pooh Bear”.

Hector nudged Blanche and said, “Lets go get an Ice Cream”. Blanche thought it was time to have another look at that Gold Key when she got home.

Here's the "Song that Blanche was thinking of.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

That Time Again

2011-03-12T22:02:00.000-05:00

Just a quick reminder my Friends, at 0200 hrs your time or whenever you go to bed, to move your clock ahead one hour to Daylight Savings Time. Provided your Province, State or Country observes this ritual.

Personally I prefer if we stayed on Standard Time. I like it getting dark when I am ready for bed and having it bright when my day starts. But that's just me.

Everyone enjoy your weekend.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #73

2011-03-06T15:00:00.009-05:00

Microfiction Monday #72

2011-02-27T12:00:00.000-05:00

Microfiction Monday #71

2011-02-20T15:00:00.004-05:00

Quilldancing Assignment #2

2011-02-15T19:05:00.003-05:00

Our "Quilly" has come up with a Fantastic Meme and instead of me trying to explain it, I'll let our Dear Quilly put it in Her Own Words.

I thought I’d start the year off by launching a new feature! I’ve been missing 3WT but not all the work involved. I thought I would try for something a bit more manageable that didn’t require hours of research.

Your Writing Assignment, should you choose to accept it, is to write a complete story in 500 words or less using the scenario below to kick-start your thinking. Publish your story on your blog February 15th, then come back here and link it to my February 15th story.

I have twelve writing assignments ready, one for the first day of every month. Every month! The stories are due on the 15th, even in April! (For anyone feeling skeptical, my January story is already written, and I won’t post a prompt I don’t already have a story for.)

Here's The Prompt:

February is the month of love. Your prompt required only that you write a love story. Fashion it as you will, and remember there are many kinds of love.

As soon as I saw this I knew I'd have some fun with it. It would be a way for me to keep the continuing story of my Blanche going after Portrait of Words was discontinued.

PS, Those of you unfamiliar with my Continuing Story of Blanche MacNaughton ~ duVet and her family can acquaint themselves with the story in my Portrait of Words for which you can "Visit Here" and get yerself caught up. I would suggest you find your way to the very first entry and work your way back, as my Portrait of Words had a continuing Story. Something like those old Matinee Movie Serials of oh so long ago. If you so desire, you can "Visit Here" and start at the very first entry.

Here's My Entry.

It was 14 February, Blanche was returning from the door with the Dozen Assorted Lupins Hector had delivered. Blanche had a strange taste in flowers, and preferred the Wild Flowers that grew than the commercially grown ones.

Getting back to her reclining chair with the heat and the massaging fingers she plopped herself down into it and resumed watching “Random Harvest”. Blanche enjoyed both Ronald Colman and Greer Garson, and remembered watching a Midnight Revival Showing of it in the Roxy the night Frankie took her to see it.

It was sitting in the Balcony with Frankie when Cousin Bertnam passed them on his way to the Projection Room. He stopped for a second to talk to them and was happy that Blanche finally found the Love of her life, only if he would be so lucky. The life of being a Movie Projectionist, one didn’t have much of a social life.

Blanche knew that Bertnam was lonely, and resolved to do something about it. She talked to Frankie, as well as her sister Bernice about it. They all thought of ways to see about hooking Bertnam up with someone and meeting Miss Right.

Blanche’s Mother Hortense always used to say “When one least expects it, this is when something happens”. This is what happed to Bertnam, one night he was finished work. He stopped in at his favorite all night diner where he met Muriel. She was a new fry cook at the diner. They hit is off and after the first visit, Bertnam stopped in every night after work.

Muriel finished work about the same time Bertnam did, and on her days off, Bertnam would sneak Muriel into the Projection Room and she’d watch the films from as Bertnam called it “The Best Seat in the House”.

The romance flourished, Bertnam and Muriel as the Villagers said, was a “Match Made in Heaven”, or at the All Night Diner. Blanche figured the 8 kids they had also helped cement the idea that they were in love. She was happy for them, what was that old saying “The Longer the Wait………….”

Blanche’s cell phone is prompting her that she has a text waiting. It is Mitchell, he and Sasha are in town and they want to take Blanche and Hector out on a special Supper. Little does Blanche realise, this is a Family Reunion of sorts. Not only will they be there, but Bernice and Sébastien, Byong-Soon and Graeme as well as PrimRose and Guido.

The St Elmira Ballroom was being rented for the evening and there would be food and drink for all to enjoy. This was going to be the best 14 February that Blanche enjoyed in years. She was glad that Hector came back into her life. Somehow she knew Frankie approved.

All was right with the World and Blanche had her family around. She knew that this Valentines Day would be one of the Best Ever. Yes this was going to be a Happy Day.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #70

2011-02-13T12:15:00.002-05:00

Our Susan over at "Stony River" hosts Microfiction Monday. I thought I'd give it a try and see if I can come up with something. The idea is to use Susan's picture she posts then compose a story up to and including characters, punctuation marks, etc adding up to 140. I believe you can use less but not more. Susan provided a "Convenient Link" {Everyone should have one in a Convenient Pocket} if you need help in attaining that magic number of 140. Whilst at Susan's visit all the other wonderful Entries in the game.

Teddy was thinking, "Where the heck is Jean? Mary seems to think I should paint her as well. Why did Sandy talk about the Dang Portrait"?

This was the last time Teddy was going to take Jean's Girls to a Performance of a Jane Austen's Emma. It's all they could talk about.

"Jean, Jean, The Roses are Red........Come into My Arms Bonnie Jean". Teddy gets stuck watching the girls whilst Jean runs off with Gordon.

If you need some help, "Visit Here" for an explanation.

Here is everything you've wanted to know about "Jane Austen" but were afeared to ask.

Want to listen to the song from the film, "Sit A Spell Here" and enjoy. This is the Original "Rod McKuen" version. If you want "Oliver's" version, "Visit Here".

Here's The Song Lyrics.

"Jean"
{Rod McKuen Version}

Jean, Jean, the roses are red
And all the leaves have gone green
And the clouds are so low
You can touch them, and so
Come out to the meadow, Jean

Jean, Jean, you're young and alive
Come out of your half-dreamed dream
And run if you will, to the top of the hill
Open your arms, Bonnie Jean

Till the sheep in the valley come home my way
Till the stars fall around me and find me alone
When the sun comes a-singin' I'll still be waitin'

Jean, Jean, the roses are red
all of the leaves have gone green
And the clouds are so low
You can touch them, and so
Come into my arms, Bonnie Jean

Jean, Jean...............

All the hills are ablaze with the moon's yellow haze
Come into my arms, Bonnie Jean

Jean

"Jean"
{Oliver Version}

Jean, Jean, roses are red
All the leaves have gone green
And the clouds are so low
You can touch them, and so
Come out to the meadow, Jean

Jean, Jean, you're young and alive
Come out of your half-dreamed dream
And run, if you will, to the top of the hill
Open your arms, Bonnie Jean

Till the sheep in the valley come home my way
Till the stars fall around me and find me alone
When the sun comes a-singin' I'll still be waitin'

For Jean, Jean, roses are red
And all of the leaves have gone green
While the hills are ablaze with the moon's yellow haze
Come into my arms, Bonnie Jean

Jean, you're young and alive!!
Come out of your half-dreamed dream
And run, if you will to the top of the hill
Come into my arms, Bonnie Jean

Jean

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #69

2011-02-06T15:00:00.003-05:00

Zellers

2011-02-05T12:48:00.000-05:00

This morning after actually sleeping in until 0830 hrs {Lucky Me} got up and fed the boys then got the coffee on and got the day started. Last night I went shopping for groceries but forgot a couple of things. Haimish would have been happy if I got up as soon as the light came pouring through the windows this morning at about 0700 hrs.

So about 1045 hrs it was out the door to "Zellers" to get some things. I like shopping at Zellers as they have good bargains as well as you can find at Wal~Mart.

I needed a Clothes Basket, the one I had was falling apart so it was left in Calgary. I also needed crazy glue and whilst walking through the Frozen Food dept I found that Delissio just has come out with a new pizza. Bacon Cheeseburger, so you know what I am having for supper. Of course I needed a cookie sheet to heat the pizza on, but there were only small cookie sheets, so I bought a specially designed Pizza Sheet.

Getting home it was time to get the laundry started, so off to the basement with the new clothes basket and the dirty clothes to be washed. The washer costs $1.50 per load, but the dryer is Gratis, for now at least according to the Landlord.

Now it is time for lunch, having pizza pops for lunch. It might not register up there on a Doctor's Wish List for a decent lunch, but it will fill the hole that is down there telling me that I need to eat.

I have no plans for the rest of the day, do have a friend coming by with some more things for the apartment. I am supposed to be getting a bed, and some bedding as well as some dishes. I also think there is an end table for the bedroom.

The Microwave is telling me Lunch is ready so will close off for now.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

I'm Back.

2011-02-02T20:30:00.000-05:00

Thought I'd post a quick post to let you know we are all moved in, settling in happily and making ourselves quite at home. It was quite the busy weekend. With including the last trip on Saturday Night to bring Haimish and Alexander to the apartment, it turned into six trips.

I started at 0900 hrs with the first move, in the snow and all, and I decided that I was going to make multiple trips with small loads. I also decided that I was going to take the Heavy, Bulky things first as at 0900 hrs I had more puff and steam than if I waited until the end.

As the move progressed with each successive move of things, I put things together or set up. On the Second move I set up the TV and DVD, VCR. Once I had things set up, I put on a movie to test things. 20 minutes later I realised that I need to turn off the TV and get back to Cambridge to put up load three.

Trip 4 was to hook up the computer and all the goodies. I still had the wireless NIC in the computer and I locked on a unsecure Internet Connexion. I made a quick post and then headed back to Cambridge for another load.

After Load 5 I stayed for Supper then it was time to bring Haimish and Alexander to the apartment. This is when my Sister decided that she should come along to bring Alexander into the Apartment. She was concerned that one of them might get away if I was by myself.

After getting my Sister back home I made the final trip from Cambridge to my new place. It was time to spend the rest of the day with Haimish and Alexander. They had a really rough day and needed to know it was over. Firing up the computer I found that the unsecure wireless connexion was gone. It must have been the fellow next door who was moving out on Sunday.

Getting up on Sunday, I spent the day with the boys and waited for my Sister to arrive with the Dresser that wouldn't fit in the cobalt and some other things. Then it was off to get some groceries and prepare for Monday and back to work.

Monday I was going to walk to work, but getting up found that it was -22 Celsius without the Windchill so I drove to work. It was a five minute drive there and then back. Yesterday I walked to work and it only took me 15 minutes there and back. Today with the Snow Storm it took me about 18 minutes, more so as I had to trudge through the snow that fell, and before the snowplows had a chance to clear the streets.

Getting home I had an appointment with Rogers to have the internet connected. The fellow arrived between 1845 and 1930, I really wasn't paying attention to when he actually arrived. It is nice to have the Internet installed, I didn't realise how much I missed it until it was gone. I had quick chances to get online at work, but could only do it on break and at lunch.

But I am only having the Internet connected, I don't need a home phone as I have my Cell set up with a good daytime plan, and unlimited evenings airtime 1900 hrs to 0700 hrs and unlimited weekends airtime Friday 1900 hrs to Monday at 0700 hrs. I have the Unlimited Texting and Web Browser and unlimited Canadian long distance. Total for the phone is about $60.00 a month before tax.

As for Television, there are some channels I am missing watching by not having the TV installed, but for the cost of it, and the digital box (which in my case would have to be Hi Def, where I have the Hi Def TV), it isn't worth the cost right now. When I get that better paying job maybe I'll head off to Best Buy or The Shop with No Future, maybe even Wal~Mart and buy that Hi Def Digital Box and have the TV connected. If this time ever happens, I will be getting the basic Hi Def. That will be about it.

Thanks to everyone who visited me this weekend with the Microfiction Post. Sorry that I couldn't respond and time permitting I'll try to get by everyone who visited. Thank you to whoever placed my link at Susan's.

But it is late, time to unwind and do some serious web browsing for a bit then head off to bed.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #68

2011-01-28T22:30:00.001-05:00

Microfiction Monday #67

2011-01-23T15:00:00.004-05:00

An Update

2011-01-23T12:08:00.001-05:00

Sorry I haven't been around much lately, just don't have the ambition to come and post. It seems lately that I only post on Sunday Afternoon my Microfiction Monday. I haven't been in that great of Spirits for awhile now. Lately is seems that when I get one step forward, I have to make three steps back.

I do take over my apartment next weekend, it is a beautiful little place in Kitchener, about a 25 minute walk to my new job. This will save on gas and wear n' tear on the car. I am almost Downtown and just a stone's throw to Victoria Park, where one can take a walk or just to go and have a sit and watch the ducks and swans.

The cats are going to love the place. The Living Room and Balcony off of the Kitchen overlook the Street. The Bathroom and the Bedroom as well as the Living Room have big windows, and I can see Alexander spending a lot of time here. There are also large closets and cupboards that the lads can hide in.

My Landlord who owns the house is really nice. He lives on the Main Floor and has turned the 1928 house's Upstairs into two apartments. He also has a third apartment above the garage. We hit it off as soon as we met, I know I am going to enjoy living here.

Winter is here in a Vengeance, but I am not minding it or the cold. I guess I am used to the -30 and 40's Celsius on the Prairie. I think the coldest it got here was -20 something Celsius, but with the damp humid air it feels like the -30 something dry temperature of Calgary.

Not all that much more to tell. I am starting my third week of Call Center Training for a National Cell Phone company. The job is almost a carbon copy of the old job I had with the Cable Company I used to have. Here there doesn't seem to be that much tolerance for Mistakes. The turnover rate for people is great here, and folks who have only been here six months to a year seem to be the senior people. Well I guess when you only pay min wage you get what you pay for.

I am still actively looking for that perfect job, and I have had responses to some applications already. One place is working with Seniors, and where I have my Back Ground Check with the Police already completed and returned, they want to interview me.

This is the kind of job I want, helping with the Seniors and such. I cannot describe it but I have such a internal peace come over me when I am helping them. Whether it is shoveling their walks, taking them on their errands, driving them somewhere, this is where I know I need to concentrate.

I still have my part time job which is on call working for a Moving Company. I get to drive the truck and move the things. It is a good job and the folks who own the company are really nice, but right now the work is scant so I had to take this other job. When they get busier they say they will have lots of work, so I have to be patient.

My Microfiction is set to post in 3 hrs. Just wanted to make a post to get my friends up to date. I do apologise that I didn't visit anyone last Sunday/Monday and their Microfictions. This last week was crazy busy with the training, and by the time I was done, my Brain was Mush.

below are some photos of my Visit to Victoria Park last September.

Victoria Park, Kitchener, Ont.

Victoria Park, Kitchener, Ont.

Victoria Park, Kitchener, Ont. I am not that far from this Location.

Victoria Park, Kitchener, Ont. Rail Line that runs between Kitchener and Cambridge. It skirts the West Side of the Park. I can walk to the end of my street and watch trains.

Train Station, Kitchener, Ont.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #66

2011-01-16T15:00:00.007-05:00

Quilldancing Assignment #1

2011-01-15T00:01:00.005-05:00

Our "Quilly" has come up with a Fantastic Meme and instead of me trying to explain it, I'll let our Dear Quilly put it in Her Own Words.

I thought I’d start the year off by launching a new feature! I’ve been missing 3WT but not all the work involved. I thought I would try for something a bit more manageable that didn’t require hours of research.

Your Writing Assignment, should you choose to accept it, is to write a complete story in 500 words or less using the scenario below to kick-start your thinking. Publish your story on your blog January 15th, then come back here and link it to my January 15th story.

I have twelve writing assignments ready, one for the first day of every month. Every month! The stories are due on the 15th, even in April! (For anyone feeling skeptical, my January story is already written, and I won’t post a prompt I don’t already have a story for.)

As soon as I saw this I knew I'd have some fun with it. It would be a way for me to keep the continuing story of my Blanche going after Portrait of Words was discontinued.

PS, Those of you unfamiliar with my Continuing Story of Blanche MacNaughton ~ duVet and her family can acquaint themselves with the story in my Portrait of Words for which you can "Visit Here" and get yerself caught up. If you do decide to have a Crash Course on Blanche, you might want to start with "Portrait of Words # 20" and work your way to the last entry.

Here is this month's prompt:

You received a set of clunky, old-fashioned roller skates from the oldest, most eccentric member of your family. The skates appear to be too small, so you try to return them. S/he insists you try them on. You decide to humor him/her. To your amazement the skates fit. Suddenly you are overcome with the urge to skate and … (tell us what happens next in 500 words or less).

As Per the old Portrait of Words, I have this set to Auto~Post 0001 Hrs Eastern Standard Time {Well in Calgary it would have been 0001 Hrs Mountain Standard Time} on the Day of Posting.

Here's My Entry:

♫I got a Brand New pair of Roller Skates, you got a ……………….♫ Blanche was listening to one of the Oldies Stations sipping one of Hector’s Tequila Surprises and this song came on by Melanie. It made Blanche harken back to a memory of long ago when Bernice was coming back from visiting Aunt Esmeralda with a pair of really Old Fashioned Roller Skates in tow.

As Blanche let the Elixir that Hector made take its hold on her, she thought back to how their father Humphrey hit the roof with Bernice bringing home something as useless as Roller Skates that didn’t even fit. And what the Heck took her to Esmeralda's in the first place. They were told not to visit her because she wasn’t feeling well. Next thing they knew, Blanche was taking Bernice back to the Esmeralda’s with a "Sincere Thank you for the roller skates but Bernice can’t use them".

Getting to the Aunt Esmeralda’s Blanche told Bernice that they’d have to be really sincere but to be firm with her. Getting to the sitting room of the old house, Blanche proceeded to tell Esmeralda that they brought the skates back as they were too nice of a gift but that they didn’t fit.

Aunt Esmeralda said they were Special Skates and they’d fit Bernice, and to trust her. Oh how Esmeralda was going to regret those words. Esmeralda said she got the skates from a Leprechaun who visited her last week. Blanche looked at Bernice and made a Circle Motion around her ear with her Index Finger.

Esmeralda insisted the Skates be tried on, Bernice at the best of times when she was growing up was clumsy. Putting on her feet something with wheels, well only the Good Lord would know the outcome. As Bernice put on the skates, amazing but true they fit. They were as comfortable as a pair of slippers.

Bernice moved around on the Roller Skates like she was Sonja Henie on Ice. She glided around the room, not making one mark on the Hard Wood Floor. All was going well until Smokey came into the room swishing his long black tail. Well what happened next, Blanche felt really bad for Smokey as she loved cats.

Bernice was gliding along the floor and accidentally ran over Smokey’s tail. Smokey let out a howl and in the process of getting away ran into the kitchen and knocked over a pot of Esmeralda’s Beef Stew which proceeded to go all over the floor turning the polished hardwood into a smoking ruin.

Blanche and Bernice were out the door and on the road for home as fast as their legs could carry them. Getting into the house Bernice realised she still had the Roller Skates on. Humphrey seeing this................ Back to Esmeralda’s they went..............

Hector woke Blanche; He was standing there in Nature’s Own, with only a twinkle in his eye and a nod towards the lake. Blanche, well.............

Until Next Month;

Oh, if you want to sing along with Melanie, "Click Here".

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #65

2011-01-09T15:00:00.002-05:00

George Gobel n The Hollywood Squares

2011-01-04T22:30:00.004-05:00

Here is something I posted at the Facebook I thought I'd share here.

Enjoy;

Peter Marshall: What are "Do It", "I Can Help" and "Can't Get Enough"?
George Gobel: I don't know but it's coming from the next apartment.

Peter Marshall: Can breathing in and out of a paper bag help stop anything?
George Gobel: If it's filled with wine it can stop me from shaking.

Peter Marshall: True or false...a pea can last as long as 5,000 years.
George Gobel: Boy it sure seems that way sometimes...

Peter Marshall: If the Six Million Dollar Man and the Bionic Woman were to have a baby, would it be a bionic baby?
George Gobel: Yes, but it would require three doctors, a ground crew and a disposable net.

Peter Marshall: While visiting China, your tour guide starts shouting "Poo! Poo! Poo!" What does that mean?
George Gobel: Cattle crossing.
(laughter and applause dies down)
Peter Marshall: Aren't you ashamed?
George Gobel: I really am.

Peter Marshall: What is the definition of the word "Gobbledygook?"
George Gobel: That's the stuff that crusts over in turkeys' eyes when they're asleep.

Peter Marshall: According to an old song, you should "Wrap all your troubles in..." What?
George Gobel: Furs...and tell her to stop calling your house!

Peter Marshall: One Frenchman in seven makes his living making something. Making what?
George Gobel: Making love to the lady tourists.

Peter Marshall: Does the Secret Service have any women?
George Gobel: Of course, who do you think performs the secret service?

Peter Marshall: Back in the old days, when Great Grandpa put horseradish on his head, what was he trying to do?
George Gobel: Get it in his mouth.

Peter Marshall: True or false, George...experts say there are only seven or eight things in the world dumber than an ant.
George Gobel: Yes, and I think I voted for six of 'em.

Peter Marshall: According to the Reverend Billy Graham, what sin have you committed if you drink too much?
George Gobel: Gluttony. The neighbors say I ate their cat.

Peter Marshall: If you find someone lying unconscious in the street, should you do anything?
George Gobel: I'd probably crawl around him I guess.

Peter Marshall: According to Shakespeare, what acquaints a man with strange bedfellows?
George Gobel: The tall dude in the purple hat.

Peter Marshall: What is the most popular place in America that people want to visit?
George Gobel: It's right down the hall, to the right and has a sign on the door.

Peter Marshall: Is it possible to housebreak an elephant?
George Gobel: Yes, but don't try it during a newspaper strike.

Peter Marshall: According to Dear Abby, how long is the average honeymoon?
George Gobel: Forty-seven minutes.

Peter Marshall: What did Anita Bryant do for her talent competition in the Miss America contest?
George Gobel: Punch the hairdresser.

Peter Marshall: True or false, pickles and martinis don't taste as good to people with dentures?
George Gobel: Well, you can get along without dentures.

Peter Marshall: True or false, the dining room of the House of Representatives in Congress serves 10-12 gallons of beans every day?
George Gobel: And they go pass... (laughter) legislation!

Peter Marshall: True or false, the Pope believes the Vatican might be bugged?
George Gobel: And he also believes that 18 minutes of the new testament are missing.

Peter Marshall: According to The Cosmo Girl's Book Of Ettiquette, what does Helen Gurley Brown say you should put in your bra to attract men?
George Gobel: A copy of Sports Illustrated.

Peter Marshall: True or false, a Florida man was recently fined 75 cents to pay for the bullet police fired at him?
George Gobel: Yeah, and they didn't have change for a dollar, so they shot him two more times.

Peter Marshall: What do you call a cow that won't give milk?
George Gobel: Hamburger.

Peter Marshall: True or false, drinking alcohol reduces the amount of male hormones in your body?
George Gobel: You can't scare me!

Peter Marshall: According to the People's Almanac, what do they call it when one person is engaged in kissing, fondling, and caressing with another person?
George Gobel: In show business, we call it an interview.

Peter Marshall: What was Rudyard Kipling describing when he wrote about a "rag-a-bone" and a "hank-a-hair?"
George Gobel: His unsuccessful attempt to shoot his wife out of a cannon.

Peter Marshall: According to flag ettiquette, how does a woman show her respect for the American flag?
George Gobel: She picks up a sailor

Peter Marshall: True or false, some fish moo?
George Gobel: Some fish moo?
Peter: Moo like a cow. Moo, yeah.
George: Well then, conversely if you held a cow underwater it would drown. I'd say turnabout is fair play.

Peter Marshall: According to weather statistics, where is the wettest spot on Earth?
George Gobel: Uh, the parking lot at Busch Gardens.

Peter Marshall: Is it possible for a man to get an annulment if he can prove that he was drunk during the wedding ceremony?
George Gobel: Well, I thought of that, but by the time I sobered up, we had been married 23 years.

Peter Marshall: When are you considered an old man in Japan?
George Gobel: When you have to get your doctor's permission to bow.

Peter Marshall: According to Dear Abby, it's nature's signal that something is wrong. What is it?
George Gobel: When your son starts waxing his legs.

Peter Marshall: According to legend, what one thing was Noah's wife not willing to do?
George Gobel: Sunbathe amongst the anteaters.

Peter Marshall: According to Shakespeare's "Seven Ages Of Man", what is he after he's been a lover?
George Gobel: Poot.
Peter Marshall: That's who gave us the word "poot", eh? Shakespeare?
George Gobel: Well, he gave us a lot of good words.
Peter Marshall: He sure did.
George Gobel: He's quite a man.

Peter Marshall: True or false, there is a magazine called "The Corsets & Underwear Revue"?
George Gobel: I was reading that before Playboy came out.

Peter Marshall: Dear Abby says it's the single reason most people go to an X-rated movie. What is it?
George Gobel: Well, in the first place, they can't believe their eyes the first 20 or 30 times.

Peter Marshall: True or false, there is a Catholic parrish in Las Vegas that holds services in a topless discotheque?
George Gobel: Yes, and there's a sign that says "Do not tip or touch the choir".

Peter Marshall: True or false, massaging the feet helps some people with hot flashes?
George Gobel: So that's why Rose Marie wears battery-operated shoes.
Rose Marie: OH! I KNEW YOU WERE GOING TO SAY THAT! I KNEW IT!!

Peter Marshall: Years ago, American Indians tied small pine trees to their feet, and thereby invented what?
George Gobel: Shoe trees.

Peter Marshall: According to beauty experts at Seventeen magazine, what is the major cause of crows feet?
George Gobel: God made them so crows could dance.

Peter Marshall: According to an article in the Dayton Daily News, it's the most universal reaction in men after they've gotten their divorce. What is it?
George Gobel: Relief.

Peter Marshall: According to "The People's Handbook Of Medical Care", it's the single-most important factor in letting you know that something is wrong with you. What is it?
George Gobel: It's when people pass you on the street, and go "YECCH!"
Peter: That would do it I think.

Peter Marshall: You have some lipstick on your collar. Will treating it with petroleum jelly help?
George Gobel: I'm gonna have a hard enough time explaining the lipstick!

Peter Marshall: Traditionally, on Ground Hog Day, what is the ground hog looking for when he comes out of his hole?
George Gobel: Well, anything except a speeding lawn mower.

Peter Marshall: According to French wine experts, was 1969 a good, or a bad year for wine?
George Gobel: Now this has got to be a trick question because there's never been a bad year for wine.

Peter Marshall: According to Father Lester's column, is there ever, EVER a time when it is permissible to punch somebody in the mouth?
George Gobel: Well, yeah. Like if he backs into the church's new Chevy wagon.

Peter Marshall: According to the celebrated Masters & Johnson, ther are about four or five thousand places offering sex therapy in America today. Now, according to Masters & Johnson, do they feel that most of them are doing a really good job?
George Gobel: Well, not the ones where you don't have to leave your car.

Peter Marshall: The Pittsburgh Press calls it a combination of the Jitterbug, the Cha-cha, and the Mambo. What do you call it?
George Gobel: A short in my electric blanket.

Peter Marshall: True or false? A man arrested in West Palm Beach, Florida was fined 75 cents after a policeman shot him with two bullets.
George Gobel: The guy only had a dollar, so the policeman shot him two more times.

Peter Marshall: George, does Elizabeth Taylor smoke?
George Gobel: She has one cigarette after every meal, which amounts to...two packs a day.

This is where I found the Quotes. "George Gobel"

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #64

2011-01-02T15:00:00.009-05:00

Happy New Year With An Anniversary

2010-12-31T20:55:00.004-05:00

Six years ago this night, I created something what I thought was only going to be around for spell, then it would be history. On 31 December, 2004 I created my blog for something to do. I was living in Calgary at the time, and wasn't much of a party goer at all.

My Roxy, Haimish and myself were having a quiet New Years Eve and I got an email from my Friend Ritchie telling me about this Blog he created. Ritchie has since got rid of his original blog. So I with nothing to do created my own blog. It was supposed to be a place for me to rant and just sometimes share an event or a funny thing not all that important. Out of this blog, I created other blogs with one for My Dad and his Train Pictures to Honor him.

At the beginning not too many folks came to visit. Then Quilly stopped by to say hello. Through Quilly I got to meet some wonderful people who'd without my blog I'd never would have met. Dr John {Who is now our Guardian Angel watching over us}, Nea, Hope, Thom, Susan, Cindy, Baron, Lady, Michele, Peter, Alastair, Di, Peggy, Sylvia. I know I have forgot someone, My sincere apologies if I have, Let me know and I'll make sure I get your name up here.

Just wanted to take a Minute to Wish everyone a Truly Blessed 2011, and Thank you for stopping by my Little Ol Place to Sit a Spell. So now I think I'll fire up the DVD player on this old Computer and either watch "Ocean's Eleven" with Frank, Dean, Sammy, Peter, Angie, Richard, Norman, Cesar, Henry and the rest of the gang, or "The Poseidon Adventure". Two films with a New Years Eve theme.

PS, Here was the "Very First" Post.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #63

2010-12-26T15:00:00.005-05:00

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T19:45:00.001-05:00

Just want to take a quick second to stop and wish all my friends who visit a Truly Blessed Christmas.

Tomorrow as we celebrate the day, lets stop for a bit and remember why we are celebrating.

If you biggie the picture you can see what is written on it.

Wishing everyone a Truly Blessed Christmas.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #62

2010-12-19T15:00:00.001-05:00

Microfiction Monday #61

2010-12-12T16:00:00.005-05:00

Microfiction Monday #60

2010-12-05T14:25:00.000-05:00

Microfiction Monday #59

2010-11-28T11:15:00.000-05:00

Microfiction Monday #58

2010-11-21T16:00:00.005-05:00

Apples n' Oranges

2010-11-16T17:58:00.004-05:00

Regular viewers of the Blog will know I went and viewed an apartment last Saturday, well not go go into detail, it was a Dump. You can read all about the visit by scrolling the archives or "Clicking Here".

Today on the way home from work today I visited another Bachelor's Apt and it was like Night and Day. No pink Bathtubs, and assorted mixed sinks and Toilets. There were no holes in the floor or walls. And the rent was $20.00 cheaper a month.

The apartment I looked at today is on a quiet street, the building itself is inviting. Just North of Downtown Kitchener in an older part of the City, which I like as I like the older parts with the History and Character. It is on a quiet street but a block away from the Street that will take me close to work. The commute will be about 10 minutes on the bad days.

The Bachelor has a nice big Bathroom with Tub n Shower as well as Matching Sink and Water Closet. The Carpet in the Living Room is new and you can smell the New Paint smell. It has a Large patio Door leading out to the Parking Lot behind the building. And is on Ground Level. The Hydro is Extra but the Super who lives in the Bldg says his Electric is only about $48.00 a month. It has electric heat though and with Winter that could be a Killer.

The Kitchen is kind of cramped and the fridge is only a Beer Fridge size Critter. The Stove is Cook Top only, I don't believe there is an oven. It is a Quiet Building and the Super is making it that way. He is only looking for folks that are working and can pay the rent.

The cats will love it and yes they are allowed to come and stay. It is a start, and hopefully this will lead to something bigger and better once I get on my feet and get things above water. If I had the First Months and Last Months, I'd probably be moving in tomorrow {Or at least over the Weekend}.

But for now will close off, it was an Early Day and I need to Power Down.

I am just thinking there are going to be a lot of Walking Opportunities where I can take some pictures and share here. I am thinking Dr John would like to be seeing these. I will only be about a two block walk to the VIA Station and can go and watch the Trains come n go.

Thank you Lord for Leading me to this Apartment and I pray that I will be able to take it., I ask you to watch over my Family and Friends, and ask you to show a Blessing on my Friend Susan and help her get that Library Job she applied for.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

I can take the Lads

Microfiction Monday #57

2010-11-14T16:00:00.006-05:00

What A Dump !!!!!!

2010-11-13T15:28:00.000-05:00

You know the old saying "If it's too good to be true, it probably is" applied today. One should not put too much faith in advertising because if it sounds too good it usually is.

I went to look at a Bachelor Apartment today and according to the ad it sounded like a dream come true. Even looking at the pictures on the ad made it seem it was in a private home on a quaint street.

Getting to the place for High Noon had problems finding the place as I was looking for a quaint house, when instead it was a apartment building. As soon as I spied the place I knew that we'd not be signing a lease.

The lady showed up and even before we got to the building she was apolgising for the mess we were about to see. There were a couple of us there to look at the apartment. The first thing that turned me off was it wasn't a security building, anyone could walk off the street and kick the door in.

Getting into the apartment, you could tell it had seen better days. There were holes in the floor and walls. The Fridge and Stove were not habitable at all. The Kitchen was smaller than a tiny broom closet, and the cupboards were falling apart. My Sisters Laundry room was bigger than the bathroom. Oh and the Bathroom was to die for. Pink Bath Tub, Yellow Sink and Stained White "Water Closet".

Needless I was gracious with the young lady showing the place, but I think she knew in her heart as she was passing me the application they wouldn't be hearing from me.

Oh well the search continues with finding a Bachelor's Pad. About the only good thing I could say about the place was it had a nice big window Haimish or Alexander could look out of of.

If "Bette Davis" was with me I imagine she'd say "What A Dump". For some reason I always pictured Bette with one leg/foot Cocked against a wall with a cigarette going quoting this famous line of her's, but I guess I was wrong.

So the Search Continues.

Thank you Lord for keeping us safe, please watch over our family and friends. I know you will lead me to that apartment that is right for me.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

The Eleventh Minute of the Eleventh Hour. On the Eleventh Day of the Eleventh Month.

2010-11-11T11:11:00.010-05:00

At the Eleventh Minute of the Eleventh Hour on the Eleventh Day of the Eleventh Month, we take time to remember what a lot of Brave Souls did. They wrote a Blank Cheque to the Dominion of Canada, and still today are bravely Serving and Protecting this Wonderful Country.

Let us take time to remember the Supreme Sacrifice these Brave Men and Women did. Some came home but some didn't.

God Bless our Veterans and Dear Lord please watch over our Brave Canadians that are protecting us now and keep them safe.

In Flanders Fields

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders Fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders Fields.

- Lieutenant Colonel John Alexander McCrae
30 November, 1872 – 28 January, 1918 -

When Remembrance Day comes, I think of my Uncle Jim and Uncle Sam, my Mum and Dad for what they did. I am Thankful for what a lot of folks did oh so long ago. Take some time today and have quiet reflection on what Remembrance Day means to you. I will be. At the Eleventh Minute of the Eleventh Hour on the Eleventh Day of the Eleventh Month.

Below is a Scottish Song sung by Andy Stewart, it is about long ago but now our brave soldiers are at rest.

The Battles O'er

I return to the fields of glory,
Where the green grass and flowers grow.
And the wind softly sings the story,
Of the brave lads of long ago.

Chorus:
March no more my soldier laddie,
There is peace where there once was war.
Sleep in peace my soldier laddie,
Sleep in peace, now the battle's o'er.

In the great glen they lie a sleeping,
Where the cool waters gently flow.
And the gray mist is sadly weeping,
For those brave lads of long ago.

Chorus:

See the tall grass is there awaiting,
As their banners of long ago.
With their heads high forward threading,
Stepping lightly to meet the foe.

Chorus:

Some return from the fields of glory,
To their loved ones who held them dear.
But some fell in their hour of glory,
And were left to their resting here.

Chorus:

Andy Stewart
30 December 1933 – 11 October 1993

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Top Ten Films They Should Have Made Blogfest

2010-11-09T00:01:00.067-05:00

Our Friend Ellie at "A writer's journey, from laptop to bookshelf." is holding a "Blogfest" over at her place for 9 November, 2010. Instead of trying to explain it I will use Our Ellie's own words.

Inspired by the recent revelation that Clint Eastwood was asked to play both James Bond and Superman, I’ve decided to hold my first film related blogfest.

Ever looked at your favourite actor or actress and thought they should have been Luke Skywalker or Supergirl? Ever wondered how hilariously funny it might have been to watch Danny DeVito play Dirty Harry or Walter Matthau as The Godfather? Well now’s your chance to blog about it. On the 9th November tell us all about your top ten alternate actors and actresses, and the films you wanted to see them in and why. Give us your list of the good, the bad, the ugly, and the downright weird

Enjoy

9 November, 2010;

With all that has been happening over the last few months, with job seeking, tending to getting things changed over to Ontario from Alberta, etc all I could do was 7 entries. I wanted to do more, but with the lack of free time I just ran out of it.

I still have to get us from Marathon to Cambridge on the other blog.

I don't know if this is what Ellie really wanted but

Here Are My Top Seven Films:

.01 From Russia With Love

"Pee Wee Herman" has the Lead Role of James Bond with "Irene Ryan" playing the Delectable Tatiana Romanova who entices James to Istanbul to steal the Lektor from the Russians as part of SPECTRE'S Plan. Rounding out the cast are "Buddy Ebsen" as Ali Kerim Bey, Head of Station T ~ Turkey., "Helen Hayes" as the Evil Hench Woman Rosa Klebb, Main villain and ex-SMERSH Colonel, now Chief Operations Officer for SPECTRE. "Phil Silvers" as Donald "Red" Grant, Cunning SPECTRE assassin and one of the principal Bond enemies. "Howard Cosell" as Kronsteen, Chess grand-master and Chief Planning Officer for SPECTRE., "Michael Caine" as Ernst Stavro Blofeld, Head of SPECTRE, "Benji the Dog" as his Cat, "Frank Sinatra" as Vavra the Chief of the Gypsy Tribe. "Doris Day" and "Joan Blondell" playing Vida and Zora the two jealous Gypsy girls who are fighting to the Death over the love of the same man. "Jack Benny" as Krilencu the Frugal Bulgarian Assassin. "Ruth Buzzi" plays Kerim Bey's lonely girlfriend. The MI5 Staff is played by "Don Rickles" as M, "Rosie O'Donnell" as Miss Moneypenny and "Sid James" as Q ~ Major Boothroyd.

.02 Victor/Victoria {With A Twist}

"Sean Connery" plays the Down on His Luck Cabaret Singer Victor Grant, who meets up with Carol {Toddy} Todd played by "Jean Stapleton". Toddy hatches a scheme to make a fortune by having Victor pretend to be "Countess Victoria Grazinski". Victor is confused, A Man, Pretending to be a Woman, Pretending to be a Man. Victor says it will never work until Toddy convinces him otherwise. One hitch, Victor {Who is Victoria as far as anyone knows} has to make it look like he and Toddy are Lovers. Toddy is going to tell everyone She and Victoria met in Poland and became an item. All goes well until Victor falls for Queen Marchand, a Chicago Gangster played by "Whoopi Goldberg". Queen Marchand is invited to Victoria's Opening night by Andre Cassell, Paris's Leading Talent Agent, played by "Jimmy Stewart". Rounding out the Cast are "Roger Moore" playing Queen Marchand's Floosie Boyfriend Norman Cassidy. "Oprah Winfrey" as Queen's Bodyguard Squish Bernstein, "Peter Falk" is Labisse {Owner of the Chez Lui and tries to find out the truth about Victoria}, "Peter Lorre" as the Waiter, "Sally Rand" plays Toddy's ex girlfriend Rachel DiNardo. And "Barbara Walters" plays the Manager of Victor's hotel where at the beginning of the movie offers to sleep with her for a slice of Haggis. This is where he finds a cockroach in his room, goes to a Restaurant to get a free meal by placing the Cockroach in his salad and meets Carol Toddy Todd in the process, where they become friends.

.03 Bullitt

Lieutenant Frank Bullitt "Danny DeVito" is a Hardened San Francisco Police Detective, who has no use for Crooked politician Walter Chalmers, "Edgar Buchanan". Bullitt has a total dislike for Chalmers and doesn't like the fact he, Sergeant Delgetti "Bob Denver" and Detective Carl Stanton "Max Baer Jr" have to watch Chalmer's Star Witness Johnny Ross "Tennessee Ernie Ford" Round the clock in some No Tell Motel. Johnny is part of Chalmers plan to improve his image by using Johnny to testify against his brother Pete "Burt Lancaster" leader of all Organised Crime in North America. Late in the Evening a couple of Hitmen "Bud Abbott" and "Lou Costello" break into the motel room, and seriously wound Stanton and Ross. Bullitt is ready to investigate the incident but Chalmers wants to blame Bullitt and the entire SF Police Dept. Ross dies of his wounds and Bullitt has Doctor Willard "Flip Wilson as Geraldine" cover up Ross's death by making him a John Doe over the Weekend, so as Bullitt can find out what happened. Bullitt reconstructs the movements of Ross in his Dodge Dart and is at one point chased through the Streets of San Francisco by the same two hitmen who eventually die in a Firey crash in their Chevy Nova. Getting back to Police Head Quarters, Bullitt is asked by his own Captain Bennett "Ed Wynn" to tell Chalmers where Ross's Body is. Chalmers finds out Bullitt found out the true identity Ross, and he wasn't Mob as Chalmers thought but a Salesman by the name of Albert Rennick and that his wife Dorothy was killed by the real Ross to keep her quiet about Albert Rennick. Bullitt found the body of Dorothy Rennick in a No Name motel when he took his Cathy "Rhea Perlman" for drive to get her out of the city for awhile, and to follow a lead. Later Bullitt follows the real Ross Edward G Robinson" to the Airport where he confronts him and eventually has a standoff where Ross meets his Maker.

.04 Sugarland Express

Lou Jean Poplin "Lucille Ball" helps her husband Clovis Michael "Jackie Gleason" escape out of prison so they can get their Baby Langston "Jerry Mathers" away from Looby's "Dean Martin" and "Jerry Lewis" who are now his foster parents. They kidnap Patrolman Maxwell Slide "Mick Jagger" and then lead most of the Texas Police commanded by Captain Harlin Tanner "Don Knotts" to Sugarland where Baby Langston is. Through the journey Lou Jean and Clovis and Patrolman Slide come to respect each other. In Sugarland Police have removed Baby Langston from the Looby Home and the police are waiting to ambush both Lou Jean and Clovis when they come to the house to pick him up. Patrolman Slides tries to tell Clovis it is a setup but it is too late and he is shot. He gets back to the car with Lou Jean screaming for baby Langston but Clovis eventually dies from his wounds as they almost make it to the Mexican Border.

.05 Smokey And The Bandit

Smokey And The Bandit stars "Orson Welles" as Bo "The Bandit" Darville who convinces His Buddy and Trucker Fried Cledus "The Snowman" Snow played by "Luciano Pavarotti" to bring back from Texarcana 400 Cases of Coors Beer. Big and Little Enos Burdett "Sir Laurence Olivier" and "Gregory Peck" has made Bandit an offer he can't refuse. $80,000, a New Truck and a Speedy Car to run block so as to keep Cledus from getting caught by the cops in the truck. One catch, they have to make the trip to Texarcana and back to Georgia in 28 hours. The trip to Texarcana moves along without a Hitch, it is when Bandit stops to pick up a Hitchhiking Bride to Be "Joan Plowright", well Bandit finds out he has picked up a lot of trouble. Carrie aka "Frog", a nickname Bandit has given her because she was "always hopping around", and that "he would like to jump her", tells Bandit she is a Runaway Bride but not from what. Soon Bandit is being tailed by a Texas County Mountie, Buford T. Justice, played by "Sir Alec Guinness". Along for the ride is his Dim Witted Son Junior played by "Timothy Dalton" who is also the jilted Bride Groom. The rest of the movie has Sheriff Justice along with almost every other Police Officer from Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia chasing Bandit and Frog back to Georgia, unaware The Snowman has a Truck Full of Illegal Coors Beer for the Burdetts. One funny scene getting near the end of the film is when Foxy Lady, played by "Rita Hayworth" calls Bandit on the CB and invites him to stop by, she owes him one. Bandit finally accepts and Sheriff Justice hearing Foxy Lady inviting the Bandit back to her Travelling Cat House on wheels {Her Girls work out of a Winnebago} figures he has him now. When Sheriff Justice arrives at the Winnebago he is sure he has the bandit until a State Trooper arrives to inform Sheriff Justice he doesn't have the Bandit in custody but his Captain, "Don Ameche". Making it back to the Rodeo with 10 minutes to spare that Bandit, Snowman and Frog realise they need a quick getaway with all the Police closing in and Big Enos offers his Cadillac. When Bandit asks for the winnings, Little Enos offers Bandit Double or Nothing to drive to Boston for Clam Chowder to return within 18 hrs. The offer is taken with Bandit offering Praise to Sheriff Justice to staying on his tail all the way from Texas. Bandit then informs Sheriff Justice they are on the way to Boston. Unfortunately the Sequel was never made with the trip to Boston. We are left wondering what happened until a different Sequel is made in 1980, a film that wasn't as good as the Original.

.06 Dirty Harry

"Andy Griffith" plays SFPD Inspector Harry Callahan known as Dirty Harry because he gets the Dirty Jobs. Harry is on the trail of a Sadistic Serial Killer called Scorpio played by "Don Knotts". The first victim is a Young Lady swimming in a Roof Top Pool. Harry finds a Ransom Note with Scorpio stating if his demands are not met, $100,000.00, the next victim would be a Priest, or some other victim. The Chief of Police "Strother Martin" and the Mayor "Dick York" assign Harry to the case. Harry is assigned a new Rookie Partner, Chico Gonzalez played by "Freddie Prinze". Chico and Harry learn of someone toting a Brown Leather Case fitting the Description of Scorpio. Harry chases the suspect into an alley where he then gets caught by some Rummies as he is standing on a Garbage Can peering into "Hot Mary's" Bedroom Window. It turns out not to be Scorpio at all. Scorpio next kills a young boy "Gary Coleman" and the Police believe the Scorpio next victim will be a Priest, "Bing Crosby" where they set up a Stake Out next to a Church. During the Stake Out a shooting ensues with Scorpio escaping. The next victim is a young girl kidnapped and buried alive, with Scorpio having Harry hike all over the city on foot answering pay phones until Harry is instructed to meet Scorpio at a Large Cross in a Park. Scorpio beats up Harry and wounds Chico who survives but retires from the force. Scorpio escapes but not before having Harry wounding him in the leg with a knife. Harry and his new partner "Norman Fell" find out that Scorpio works as a caretaker at the Stadium and find his room and search it abet without a warrant, and finding Scorpio Harry tortures him by shooting him in his wounded leg. Then stepping on the wound, Harry get's the location of the kidnapped girl but it is too late as she is already dead. Scorpio is released by the DA "Sid Caesar" because his rights were violated and no search warrant was issued to search Scorpio's Room at the stadium. Harry then tails Scorpio on his own time everywhere he goes to which Scorpio then has someone beat him up and blames Harry for the dead. Scorpio eventually takes hostages in a School Bus driven by "Lois Maxwell" and demands a plane fueled and ready at the airport to take him where ever he wants to go. Harry intercepts the bus on it ways to the airport, and it is driven into a Rock Quarry. Scorpio kidnaps a young boy fishing and tells Harry to drop his gun or the kid dies. Harry lets on he is going to drop his gun then shoots Scorpio who lands in the water. Harry then in disgust tosses his Badge into the water and walks off.

.07 The Odd Couple

"Sir John Gielgud" plays slob Oscar Madison and "Benny Hill" plays Neat Freak Felix Unger in a comedy about two friends who share an apartment together. The story revolves around Divorced Oscar who lives as he is and if something falls on the floor it is there until somebody trips over it or it crawls away on it's own. Felix is a compulsive cleaner and everything has it's place and has to be immediately cleaned and put away when used.

The beginning of the film shows Felix first renting a Motel Room and trying to kill himself but fails when he can't get the window open. In the process he does an injury to his back and gives up the idea of committing Suicide and takes a stroll to a local GO~Go Dancer Bar where he gets deafened by the music and inflicts more pain on himself when he tosses back his drink.

The fun begins when Felix doesn't show up for the Weekly Poker game and everyone begins to worry when Frances {Felix's Wife} calls and it gets out that they are split up. Oscar and the rest of the guys begin to worry that Felix isn't there. Murray, played by James Mason, being a cop even suggests that Felix may have tried to Kill Himself. Rounding out the cast of the weekly Poker Game are "Sir Alec Guinness" as Vinnie, "Richard Burton" as Roy and "David Niven" as Speed. They all begin to worry that Felix may have actually killed himself to which Oscar intones if he did his wallet would light up with all the Credit Cards he carries.

Felix eventually shows up at Oscars and tries to make it seem that everything is alright when it isn't. He then leaves for the Bathroom to freshen up when everyone in the apartment can hear him crying. Felix escapes from the bathroom and rushes into Oscar's Bedroom. The Guys rush in and seeing the open window think Felix has jumped, but soon hear this meek cry "My Back" and closing the bedroom door, find Felix pinned between the open door and wall.

Once Felix is calmed down it is decided he can stay the night and then can find a new place to live in the morning. Felix and Oscar go for a walk to get some air and get out of the Stuffy Apartment. It is here they decide to share the apartment together and save some money. Felix promises that he won't be a bother and if for any reason he put's Oscar off, he will leave.

All goes well for the first little bit, but things soon breakdown with Felix giving Oscar orders to take his shoes off as he just cleaned the apartment, or when Oscar misses one of Never Before and not to happen again triple plays in Baseball {Oscar is a Sports Writer} when Felix calls him to see what he wants for Supper. Just before the call Oscar is telling one of the other Sports Writers the Triple Play will never happen.

Things eventually boil over when Oscar arranges with Felix to go on a Double Date with him with the Pigeon Sisters, "Bette Davis" plays Cecily and "Joan Crawford" plays Gwendolyn. The girls live in the building and like to tell the boys that on the hot evenings they sit in front of their refrigerator with the door open in the All Together cooling off.

Felix arranges for the meal to be served precisely at 2000 hrs, with the Hors d'œuvre and Cocktails to be served at 1930 hrs. The meal must be precisely served at 2000 hrs, any later and it is ruined. Oscar being late as usual ruins things and the girls don't show up until 2000 hrs. Of course Oscar insists on the Cocktails and leaves Felix to entertain the Girls. When Oscar returns with the drinks he finds Felix and the Girls having a good cry. Felix is still missing Frances and Cecily and Gwendolyn also admitting they miss their Husbands. Cecily is widowed and Gwendolyn is divorced.

When Oscar suggests that the party continue up in the Girls Apartment because Felix is a hit with the girls, Felix declines deciding on staying home and washing his hair and leaving Oscar to entertain the girls on his own. Oscar spends the night entertains Cecily and Gwendolyn by talking about Felix.

Oscar being pissed at how the date went, gives Felix the Silent treatment wishing that he'd move out. Oscar tries on a couple of occasions to get Felix mad by throwing his Supper of Linguine all over the Kitchen Wall, or standing on the Vacuum Cleaner Power Cord as Felix is trying to coil up the cord. Felix seeing what Oscar is doing takes a good grab on the cord and just as he is about to pull Oscar off his feet, Oscar releases his foot from the cord and all you hear is Rattle and Clatter coming from the Kitchen when Felix fails in his Mission.

The Fight ensues first in the Apartment then on the roof where Oscar kicks Felix out with Felix leaving and saying whatever happens to him it is on Oscar's Head. Felix disappears and Oscar feeling guilty about kicking Felix out, gets his Poker Buddies to help him search Upper West Side New York for Felix.

Felix is eventually found when Gwendolyn comes to the apartment to get Felix's things. Cecily arrives with Felix in hand worried that he doesn't want to stay with them. Saying he'd be nothing but trouble for them, to which they wonder how much trouble he could be, Oscar intones if they want a list, to which Gwendolyn wants to know if he hasn't done enough already to poor Felix.

Fences are mended between Oscar and Felix where they admit to learning a bit about themselves and each other vowing that the Weekly Poker Game will continue.

Thank you Lord for watching over us, keep my friends safe and well.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #56

2010-11-07T16:00:00.004-05:00

Back To Standard Time

2010-11-06T19:32:00.000-04:00

Just a quick reminder that we Fall back One Hour tonight {Unless you live in Saskatchewan} and revert back to Standard Time. Personally I'd like to see it stay on Standard Time all Year. I'd rather have the daylight in the Morning and not the Evening. {We pause whilst 95% of my friends gasp in horror at the thought}.

Things are progressing along quite well and soon I will be in my own apartment, the Lord Willing. Today I went to a Outlet Store and got a really decent Winter Coat for next to nothing. It will be nice and warm this winter and now I got to find a good pair of Winter Boots to go with. It will have to be for next Payday.

I bought myself another toy today. I got myself a GPS Unit to help me find my way on my Charters when I have to drive someplace new I've never been before. I went for a wee drive today with it in the car and it found all the roads and streets I was on or about to cross over or turn onto. I may even take a test run with it and program it for an address I know and see if it will show me the correct way. It has a voice that lets me know when to make the next turn and to which direction and how soon the turn is to be made.

It's been a long day and I didn't get that much sleep last night so will turn in early. Then when I do I may actually wait to move the watch back one hour when I get up. If I move it back now well do I really want to lose that hours sleep or not. Decisions, Decisions, Decisions.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #55

2010-10-31T16:00:00.002-04:00

One Week Ago

2010-10-28T05:26:00.001-04:00

A week ago I was really doubting myself, even wondering the Existence of God and if I was Forsaken. {Dr John, would always remind me that God would never Forsake Me}. I thought things could not get any worse.

One week later, everything that I fretted about has passed. I now have the car fixed, safety inspected {which will never need to be done again, unless Ontario changes the law} and the car now registered and insured for Ontario. I have got my outstanding bills paid, and still have a bit of money left in the bank.

My new job even offered to give me more hours so as I can now have a Straight 8 or even 9 hour day. They even brought me up a newer bus that seats more than 24 passengers for which I am actually driving something where I need to have my C Licence. The last time I drove something where I had the required Licence was with Transit back in Alberta.

Where I am having my hours increased, pending approval from the boss for which there should be no issue, I won't need my other job anymore for which I told them I am no longer available as of today. I would have stayed to help them out but found out that my run I was told I could have in the afternoon for as long as I wanted it was given to someone else.

Oh well, I will miss my Wee Bairns but know I've made the right decision. Life goes on and we just got to trust that it is all in the plan. All that is now left is to get the Health Card for Ontario and find that apartment.

Just wanted to let everyone know the latest, yes I know I got to finish up my journey to here before it all becomes dust in that quagmire known as my brain. Thank you to all my friends who've been keeping me in Prayer and Happy Thoughts.

Thank you Lord for all you do, please watch over my Family and Friends.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #54

2010-10-24T16:00:00.000-04:00

Time To Say Thank You

2010-10-23T14:40:00.000-04:00

Thursday was not a good day, I got up and thought I didn't get paid. Needless to say I wasn't happy. Then getting to the University found that my Nice Bus was being used for a charter and I would be driving something that should have been retired years ago. Lets just say a Rattlesnake with an Abscessed Fang would have been better company than me.

Even on the way to work I got thinking what is it all for, why did I move, I even thought that maybe there Isn't a God. Later on I found out Payday is Friday Morning not Thursday Morning and when I got home and checked into my Services Canada account found that I was going to have deposited into my Account on Friday my back EI {Employment Insurance} for 4 weeks that I wasn't working whilst moving here.

The first thing I did was apologise to God for doubting him and if he existed. I actually slept good Thursday Night to the point that I thought I overslept and was going to be late for work. Once the eyes opened found that I still had another hours sleep.

Getting up after feeding the lads, and getting the kettle on, found that I was indeed paid for the last couple weeks work and the back time for the EI. I then paid on the Credit Card and Cell Bill and got ready for work. Once at work called the Garage to make an appointment to have the car repaired so as to have the Safety Inspection completed. Then I can get the Insurance for Ontario and finally have the car registered for here.

Today was spent running errands with my Sister's Mother in Law, stopping by the bank, getting a new Mag-Lite, New Name Tags for the cats with the Ontario Info {They still had their old Calgary Name Tags}. Then having lunch with a stop at Zehr's on the way home to get the fixings for my Hobo Stew.

When we got to Zehr's I just happened to glance in the car by the seat and found my missing Mag-Lite from three weeks ago. Now I have two Mag-Lites, for which I'll give my old one to my Sister.

Getting home it was to put the Groceries away then fix up the lads with their new Name Tags. Each cost about $22.00 but it was fun watching the Machine Laser the info into the tags.

Thank you to all of my Friends who said prayers for me. Now that things are working out for the good, and I seem to be getting back on my feet, we should soon have our own place.

Thank you Lord for all you do for us. Please watch over my Family and Friends. Keep them safe.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Changes Yet Again ~ For The Better

2010-10-19T19:54:00.001-04:00

The last couple of days on the new job, what used to be a 12/13 hour day had turned into a 17 hr day. I had to be up at 0400 hrs to get ready as I had to drive farther with the new job. First day {Yesterday, Monday} I had to be at the U of W for 0600 hrs. I had to see procedures with the new job. I worked from 0630 hrs to 1230 hrs. I then had 4 hrs break to do my second piece. Well actually 3 hrs when you take into account the 30 minutes driving each way. I had really no place to go so came back to my Sisters.

The second job was standing by at a Local Hotel in Kitchener waiting for a call to go pick up the Hotel Guest and bring them back to the Hotel {Both days I sat in the Hotel waiting for the call that didn't come}. This was a two hr call starting at 1630 hrs and ending at 1830 hrs. Then there was the 30 minute drive {If I was lucky} in Rush Hour traffic to get back to my Sisters. Last night after getting home after 1900 hrs by the time we had supper then I unwound it was about 2100 hrs by the time I got to bed. Of course 0400 hrs came fast this morning.

I mentioned to the Manager yesterday that I didn't think I could keep this schedule up and took him up on his offer to let me only work the six hours in the morning. There was only one condition, I had to stay on until a new driver could be found. That driver was found today and she does my Second piece starting Wednesday {Tomorrow}.

So I still kind of need Full Time hours so I called my boss from my first job and I am starting tomorrow {If I can} I will have the Afternoon Piece of my same old School Run back. I will be parking the bus the usual time of 1645 hrs and will be home in Cambridge at my Sisters by 1730 hrs at the latest.

When my first piece is through at 1230 hrs, I scurry to Kitchener from Waterloo, about a 15 minute drive, pick up the Wheelchair Equipped Bus, go get lunch somewhere then start my afternoon bit at the old time of 1415 hrs. I wont' be making 2 complete round trips from Cambridge to Kitchener/Waterloo in a day. I'll be driving to Waterloo in the AM, then once all is through at the end of the day, will be driving back home to Cambridge from Kitchener.

The nice thing is I'll be driving my Wee Bairns home again. I missed seeing my Wee Charges and I am grateful God has given me this chance to be able to tend to them again.

I apologise for not posting sooner, or answering everyone's comment on the last post. Or visiting all the Participants with Susan's Microfiction Monday. It was these last couple of days that knocked the wind out of my sails. Hopefully regular programming will return and I'll be able to post more. I got to find time to complete my journey to Ontario as well on the other blog.

I normally don't ask my friends for Prayer, but I am finally getting my head above water, but I am not there yet. I recently re~applied for my Employment Insurance where I was out of work for about 6 weeks. I am allowed to fill out my reports of when I did and didn't work, but with the Government they are taking their time to decide if I am eligible. I still have car payments due as well as other bills that need to be paid and these funds would come in handy.

But I went on way too long, I've been up for 16 hrs already, and the Sandman is saying "Fool go to bed".

I will be around in the next couple of days for a visit.

Lord, Thank you for all you do for us, please watch over my Family and Friends, and Thank you for the two wonderful jobs and letting me be able to Drive my Wee Bairns home again.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #53

2010-10-17T16:20:00.000-04:00

Busy Friday

2010-10-15T08:49:00.000-04:00

I got a really busy Friday ahead of me. At 0930 I meet up with the Manager of the New Job and we will be going over what I will be doing on Monday Morning. Basically driving folks staying at a Downtown Motel to local events in the Waterloo Region.

After I am through meeting up, at 1300 hrs I have an appointment to get the car Safety Inspected and the Emissions Test done. I need both to be successful or I won't be able to have the car Registered in Ontario. Once I am through with the Garage, it is off to have the car insured then registered.

Will tell more when I got five minutes to myself.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #52

2010-10-10T16:30:00.005-04:00

Thanksgiving Weekend

2010-10-09T08:44:00.001-04:00

Wishing all my Fellow Canadian Visitors a Wonderful "Thanksgiving" Weekend.

This year I have so much to be Thankful for. I am finally in Ontario with the Family, and now have not only 1 job but 2. Where my new Full Time job starts at Noon and ends around 1800 hrs, I can still keep the Morning Run of my Part Time job. The Wee Bairns will be so happy as they found out I was leaving and were really disappointed.

I really enjoy taking the Wee Ones to school and I am also Thankful for this. I really believe I've found what God has planned for me. I look at my Wee Charges as I take them to School, and now realise how the Majority of Us really don't know how Lucky we are. Some of my kids are in Wheelchairs, others have other Special Needs, but we are all God's Children and they deserve the Same Rights and Freedoms we all enjoy.

In the first week of the job, I've felt a lot better than I have in the last year. I now know I should have moved last year and not stayed another year in Calgary.

Anyway just wanted to take a bit of time to let everyone know all is well. Just don't have that much time to post anymore.

A Blessed Weekend is Wished for Everyone.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

Bill ~ "The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Portrait of Words # 33

2010-10-05T18:00:00.000-04:00

"Thom" host a Monthly challenge with "Portrait of Words" that allows you to compose a story with some pictures He provides. Have a go if you already didn't try, it is fun and you may surprise yourself.

This months pictures come from Bruno at "Rigmarole's photostream". Thank you Bruno for allowing Thom to share these photos with us.

On with the Continuing Story of Blanche MacNaughton ~ duVet.

Hector was at a loss at Blanche's actions. It was only a dream she had about Frankie's return with the Big Red Lollipop on Horseback. They were still in Cartagena and still very much happy. Well as far as Hector knew he thought they were happy.

Hector even tried singing their favorite Partridge Family song "I Can Feel Your Heartbeat" but it wasn't working and Hector was at a loss to what Spooked Blanche. All Hector knew was Blanche said it was a sign and that she needed to get back to the Village. Blanche told Hector that as soon as Aloysius and Ralph were ready they were going to fly back and get the answers.

Hector would do anything for his "Darling Bus Wench" and Hector had Miguel pack up what they'd need for their stay in the Village. Poor Teresa was going to miss her Alejandro and Rafael {she had a problem with the English pronunciations for Aloysius and Ralph}. When Ralph came up and rubbed against Teresa and purred his head off, Hector seeing this knew he'd need someone to watch the Lads in the Village. Teresa was told to make sure her Passport was in order and if it was she would also be on the way to the Village. Hector would need a Babysitter for the lads whilst he helped his Blanche sort things out.

Hector had just one request of Blanche, he wanted Blanche to take a walk with him along the Lake Shore where they consummated their reunion when he and Blanche were reunited after the situation that split them up Oh so long ago.

Hector still remembered that Blanche after the Champaign at the "Flor De Sol" along with the Exquisite Meal that Carmen had prepared well lets just say he hoped they didn't scare the fishes with their actions in the Lake. After the Passion ebbed, Hector knew it was time to Propose and he and Blanche were off to find a Justice of the Peace.

It was on the walk Hector found out Blanche had fears that Frankie was trying to tell her something in the Dream. Blanche didn't know if it had something to do with Expo 67 and Montreal or if it was something about the Village. Hector told Blanche that as soon as they got back to the Hacienda it would be in the Jet and taking off for Canada.

Blanche told Hector after they had everyone bundled in the Rental that when you saw the Water Tower, you were getting close to St Elmira. Blanche said that when she and Bernice were little girls and Humphrey and Hortense were returning from Grampie and Grammie's place and they saw the tower they'd soon be home.

As they travelled along Highway #85, one of the King's Highways, Hector realised he had a new favorite place to be. The Beauty of the Petite River Valley was something to behold and along the way he saw places where he wouldn't mind setting up a Cottage for Summer Living. Hector suggested once Blanche has the mystery to her dream solved he'd like to Summer in the Village and Winter in Cartagena. Blanche told Hector that it would be wonderful and asked him to be Patient and just humor her for a bit.

As they got closer to the Village Blanche was getting a bit more apprehensive about the visit. What if she learned something she didn't want to, maybe it would be a good idea to talk to someone, but who. Who could Blanche trust, Bernice was away with Sébastien in Ottawa, Byong-Soon and Graeme were in Korea on a Family Reunion, PrimRose and Guido were off to Michigan buying new rides for the Midway, Mitchell and Sasha were in New York where Mitchell was to receive another award, and Eunice and Harry were now living in the Mountains.

Bertnam, well he never forgave Blanche for getting Bart and his Mum Esmeralda together where their Extra~Curricular Activities ended in their deaths. Watching his Mum and Bart Dell from his Projection Room Window that night at the New Roxy Multiplex Cinema, and what they were doing in the seats ....... Even though everyone including The Village Witch tried to convince Bertnam that both Bart and Esmeralda Were Old and if it wasn't the Whoopee that killed them, it would have been something else. He just couldn't forgive his cousin Blanche.

For a second Blanche thought about visiting The Village Witch but then she realised she really didn't want to visit Marge Dell, Knowing how she treated poor Aunt Esmeralda oh those years oh so long ago. Blanche had a Brain Wave and she'd go visit the Reverend Flasher. She told Hector that they'd go and see The Reverend Flasher as soon as they got things settled and unpacked in the trailer.

Oh how the Trailer must need a good airing out with no one living in it for over a year, almost two. But first Blanche needed to stop at the Beer Store to introduce Hector to some Good Canadian Beer and get a package of Sweet Caps Smokes. Due to Import laws it was hard to get the Sweet Caps in Cartagena, even though Hector offered to smuggle them in for Blanche. Blanche loved Hector too much to have him get in trouble for her just for some smokes.

Getting to the 8/12 Convenience Store, Blanche bumped into her Niece's Hee-sook and Esther, Byong-Soon and Graeme Mother's names. Seeing Blanche they both ran over to give their Aunt Blanche a big hug then welcomed Hector to St Elmira and gave him Hugs as well.

They then told Blanche that they were glad to see her and Hector but sad that no one else was here to welcome her and Hector. Blanche then told them about her dream about their Uncle Frankie to which they said not to worry, it was only a dream and didn't mean anything. But agreed to stay away from The Village Witch and a visit to The Reverend Flasher might be the best.

The girls told Blanche there was a few changes to St Elmira's since Blanche left for Cartagena. One thing a Bail Bonds shop was set up on the Corner of Gass Avenue and Belch Street. Gass Avenue was named after Otto Gass, one of the First Settlers in St Elmira's and Belch Street was named after Gotta Belch the First Restaurateur in St Elmira's. The Bail Bonds Shop was set up as for some reason the Crime Rate jumped by leaps and bounds.

Blanche got thinking what other changes would be awaiting her in St Elmira's. Through emails from everyone they kept telling Blanche how things have changed. It was as if as soon as Blanche took off for Cartagena, St Elmira's went to pot. Was it just Coincidence, or did Blanche have some power that she wasn't aware of. Oh well something else she could discuss with The Reverend Flasher.

Getting to the Rectory Blanche and Hector found The Reverend Flasher sitting in his office reading some old sermons he gave from years ago. The Reverend Flasher was now retired but the Parish allowed him to share the Rectory with The Reverend Duddleswell. The Reverend Flasher was still as Sharp as ever and there was no need even at his 85 years of age to put him in a retirement home.

Anyway Reverend Duddleswell appreciated having Reverend Flasher for the company and for the sage advice when he had a question that he couldn't answer. The Reverend Duddleswell was only out of Seminary School for a couple of years and became the Local Vicar when The Reverend Flasher retired about the time Esmeralda and Bart became an item.

The Reverend Flasher greeted Blanche and Hector and offered Prayer and Blessed the Marriage. When Blanche told Reverend Flasher about the dream of her and Hector returning to the Village and it ending with Frankie riding up on Horse Back with a Big Red Lollipop well she was confused. The Reverend Flasher told Blanche that dreams are not some sort of forecast of the Future. He told Blanche that only one person knew what the Future Held and he wouldn't let someone like Blanche, a good woman, have a dream like this so as to let her know what was about to happen.

When Blanche told Reverend Flasher what She and Hector were doing before she retired that night. That once a week they'd get up early pack a picnic and lunch along the shore of their favorite lake in Cartagena, the swimming with Hector in the lake {Minus the Scaring of the Fishes}, the walk along the shore, the romantic supper at the "Flor De Sol" later that evening, with the rest of the Evening Dancing the Night away to Xavier Cugat's Music.

It was later sitting along the Beach Blanche liked to go to when she needed to think she told Hector what The Reverend Flasher suggested made sense. Reverend Flasher told them not to be concerned with the dream. He himself had dreams where it seemed as if a Loved One from his past came to visit trying to tell him something. He told Blanche and Hector that everyone dreams of their Love Ones who were no longer around. He said it was only natural and suggested to Blanche that with all that happened to her in the past {Including Weird Harold - Which made Blanche Shudder} she'd end up dreaming of Frankie.

Reverend Flasher told Blanche and Hector that it was Silly of her to think Frankie was trying to get a hold of her with some message. He suggested it may have been the excitement of the evening and later on in her sleep her Sub~Conscience may have had feelings of guilt. She knew that Frankie wasn't alive as it was him at rest at Flo n' Wagner's Funeral Parlour on Pleasant Street oh those 3 or so years ago. For a moment Blanche felt lost to which Hector putting his arm around her, told Blanche he felt that Maria and Frankie would always be with them, in their Hearts and Dreams and that one day there would be a Grand Reunion in Heaven. How they were going to Sort out who was married to who, well they worry about that when they got there.

Blanche smiled at her Hector, her "Favorite Bus Driver", winked and suggested they go "Scare Some Canadian Fish". To which Hector looked at Blanche and said, "But Darling, there are people about", to which Blanche replied, "The Village now has a Bail Bond's shop".................

A Blessed Month is Wished for Everyone.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

Bill ~ "The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #51

2010-10-03T17:30:00.004-04:00

An Update

2010-10-02T18:55:00.000-04:00

You are probably wondering where I got to the last few days. It has been a busy time for me. Wednesday it was over to Fergus to sign some papers, pass in a voided cheque so as to get paid, then it was back to Kitchener to meet up with one of the drivers who was going to show me the way things are done.

After the introductions and the things about how the company works it was time to get on the route with picking up the Special Needs Kids from their schools. Once we had all the Wee Bairns safely home, arrangements were made for a full day of Training on Thursday and Friday. Thursday I rode along in the Morning, but come Thursday Afternoon and both Morning and Evening on Friday I drove.

Sunday I am going to do a dry run tomorrow by myself to make sure I know where to go with the routes I will be driving. I already have it sorted in my mind as to where I need to go, have gone over the map numerous times today as to where each turn is. So I should be OK, but tonight I will be making up some Cheat Sheets with the addresses of the kids, where the turns are, and what direction one turns.

Monday I will officially be the New Bus Driver for the Run. The kids are good kids and each one is special in their own way. I can bring my bus home between Morning and Afternoon Runs, and at the end of the day park it in Kitchener then come back to Cambridge. They are going to see if there is some place here in Cambridge I can park it overnight, but for now it looks like it will be a commute everyday to Kitchener. If my Sister had the room I could park it here, but she doesn't.

I am actually thinking about moving to Kitchener when I find that better paying job as it is more Central in the region. Waterloo is only a stones throw from Kitchener. It is something we will have to look at down the road. Right now I have just got to get back on my feet and get forward.

The job is only Part Time and it doesn't have any benefits, but I feel this is where I got to be right now. I work Monday to Friday on School Days and when school is closed I am not working. School Breaks I am not working, Snow Days I am not working.

It is a start and it will help pay some of the bills. Where I haven't been working for over a month and with no savings, I haven't been able to pay on the bills or get that windshield so as I can have the safety inspection done to get the car registered here. The thing that I am concerned about is I have only so many weeks to get this done. And if I don't have things in place then it is going to be sticky. My old insurance from Alberta will be canceled, even though they are aware I am not ready to have things transferred here yet.

But I do have my Operator's Licence so I guess this is good.

OH, I've posted "Day 3" of the journey, if you have a moment pop by for a spell. And the Lads have fit in fine and made friends with everyone except Winnie, my Sister's dog. He'd like to be friends, but Haimish and Alexander have other plans. Well Haimish isn't so hateful and in time I think they will be friends. It is Alexander that will have nothing with Winnie, and makes a great big Stink and Growl if poor Winnie gets to close into his space.

Thank you Lord for what you do for us, I ask you to look after my Family and Friends.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Surprises Come In Many Forms.

2010-09-28T14:30:00.000-04:00

Getting up today I wasn't all in the best of cheer. I awoke around 0400 in a Panic Attack Mode worrying about finding that job, wondering if the job I interviewed for and then was told they liked me was really going to happen at all, getting the car registered in time, and other things.

Once I was alert, went online and applied for more jobs, updated the "Monster" Account then headed out the door with my Sister to price a new washer and dryer in Kitchener she had her eye on. On the way I called the fellow in charge of recruiting for the one job I had an interview with. I got the voice mail and left a message to be called back. This is the job that called me last Friday to see about setting up the training.

Getting to the appliance store my Sister found the Washer n Dryer she wanted and they are coming to deliver and install it on Friday. Leaving Kitchener we were on the way back home and had some lunch at a Fish n Chips place that has the best fish next to being in the Maritimes.

Leaving the restaurant my cell was ringing and it was the recruiter calling me back to arrange for me to meet up with him on Thursday Morning at 0900 to sign some papers and give my banking info and copy of my new Ontario Drivers Licence. So my mood changed 150% hearing this.

Next stop was to the Grocery Store to get the things for the Beef Stew we are having for Supper tonight as well as some food for the Lads, plus more Kitty Litter.

Getting to the mailbox I had some mail waiting for me. One of the things waiting was a parcel waiting from Our Hope" for me.

Thank you my Friend, it was like Christmas today, both my Sister and Nephew needed to see me open the box. I appreciate you doing this for me Hope, your Gram had good taste in films. They will be well taken care of Hope, now just to decide which one I am going to watch first.

Thank you Lord for this wonderful day, thank you for my Family and Friends, please watch over everyone of them.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #50

2010-09-26T17:30:00.013-04:00

Mum's Shepherds Pie

2010-09-26T10:56:00.002-04:00

Lately I've been making supper for the family. On Thursday I made My Gram's Corn Chowder, Friday I made My Dad's Hobo Stew and Yesterday I made My Mum's Shepherds Pie. Mum used to make this on the Cold Days and it is a meal that sticks to your ribs. It is very filling and if there are any left overs, it is just as good or even better the Next Day.

It is a very easy recipe to make, and only takes about an hour and a bit to have ready.

The ingredients are:
1 lb Lean Hamburg
8 Good Sized Potatoes
1 Large Onion
1 Large Can of Peas n Carrots
1 Can Beef Gravy
1 Pie Crust Shell

I used a 9 inch Cast Iron Frying Pan.

First thing I did was peel the Potatoes and put them on to boil. I then took the Onion and diced up and in the Frying Pan Sauted until soft in Cold Pressed Olive Oil. When the onion was soft removed from the frying pan and added the Lean Hamburg to the Hot Pan. Add more Olive Oil first or the Hamburg will stick and burn in the pan. After the Hamburg is browned drain the fat and add the can of Beef Gravy and Peas n Carrots {Drained ~ a little bit of the water from the can will add flavor}. When the Potatoes are soft, mash and add Butter to taste. When the Potatoes are mashed through and the Butter mixed in, add to the top of the Hamburg. Add the Pre~made pie crust shell {I used the Pillsbury 9" Shells} which just covered the Pan to the edges. Place three small slits in the Centre of the Pie Shell to help the Steam Escape. Pre~heat the Oven to 450° Farenheit or 230° Celsius and place in oven. One thing that might save some grief is place the Frying Pan with the Shepherds Pie on a Cooking Sheet with the bottom covered with a Sheet of Aluminum Foil. This will help in keeping the Oven Clean. Leave in Oven for approx 15/20 {depending on oven} minutes for Pie Crust to Brown. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serves Six Hungry Souls. One nice side to add with the Shepherds Pie is some Home Made Cole Slaw.

Enjoy

Microfiction Monday will post later today around Supper Time.

Thank You Lord for keeping us safe, please be there for our Family n Friends.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks.

The Blood Work

2010-09-24T18:22:00.000-04:00

Today was the day to get the Blood Work done so as the Clinic Doctor can see where my Cholesterol Levels are at. Getting up I couldn't have my morning coffee or anything to eat or the Cup of Tea that my Brother in Law bought me at the Timmies.

Getting ready for the day I turned on my Cell Phone and a minute later I am getting an alert I got Voice Mail. Checking the Voice Mail found that one of the places that I applied and had an interview was calling to see where was I and getting the Licence changed over to Ontario.

I called the place back and let them know I now have my C Licence with Z Endorsement and that I am in the Process of upgrading to B Licence but have to await the Police Background Check to proceed further. They were glad to hear this and want to get me started in the training as soon as they can. I will need to learn how to operate Special Needs buses, the buses equipped with the Wheel Chair Ramps and Lifts and such. From what I understood today they even want to help me get my B Licence.

After it was off to the Lab to have the Blood Work done, and getting to the Walk In Lab the waiting area was full. There was a bit of waiting to have your number called, but once it was called things moved right along. I was only waiting at the lab for about an hour and one my name was called it was in, have the Blood Taken and on the way home.

Getting back had that cup of tea and some lunch then headed back out the door to get some things for supper, I was making my "Dad's Hobo Stew". Getting back I made a Day 2 Post on the journey from Regina to Kenora with Pictures. You can "Click Here" to read the latest post, or find my Adventure to Cambridge blog under my Other Blogs and Goodies just to the right of the main body of this blog.

Just wanted to let everyone know the latest,

Thank you Lord for all that you do for us, please watch over my family and friends.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks.

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay

2010-09-22T14:56:00.001-04:00

Since making the last post, the medical was completed and I was off to Kitchener to the MTO to have the Licence changed over to the Ontario Equivalent. Well getting to the MTO, I was told the Doctor filled out the form wrong, and that they shouldn't have highlighted the areas on the Medical Form that they did.

Needless to say I was a bit ticked after waiting all this time for the Medical and was back on the way to the Clinic. Well when I got there the Clinic was closed for the day and it wasn't even 1600 hrs yet. So early today I was over to have the new blank form completed as per the MTO guidelines then back off to Kitchener after a pit stop back at my Sisters {To Google that funny long word}, to see about having the Licence finally transfered over.

Getting there they needed to know what one word on the medical form said. Well it was a good thing I went home first as I Googled the word and discovered it had something to do with the High Cholesterol that my pills are taking care of.

It was real quick checking in, I managed to make it to the Testing and Licencing Center between the rushes. I had about 30 to 45 minute wait until my number was called. When it was it took about another 45 minutes to have things changed over where it was an Out of Province Licence and things had to be checked but Yay, I now have my Class C with Z {Air Brake} Endorsement with X Condition {I wear Spectacles}.

Whilst I was there I started the procedure to get the B Licence {School Bus} but I can't even write the Knowledge Test until I have the Security Clearance by the OPP completed. They changed the rules lately and now the Background Check has to be done {Anywhere from 4 to 6 Weeks} even before I can write the Knowledge. Once through this I need to have a Certificate I know School Bus Procedures, then do a Road Test with a Bus before I get the Endorsement.

My C Licence like my old Class 2 would open some doors, but to open more, one needs the B Licence.

Anyway just wanted to let everyone know I now have my Ontario Licence and to Thank everyone for their Prayers, Kind Thoughts and Encouragement in getting the Licence.

Oh almost forgot one of the places that interviewed me called to see the progress of my getting my C Licence with adding the School Bus. I let them know what now is procedure with the MTO, but I was still in the process of getting my B Licence.

I then called the Shuttle Bus Company {FT job} to let them know I now have my C Licence with Z Endorsement and was still interested. I was told that they were finishing up the work with the City on the Routing and such and it would be soon they be calling. I told them I was still finding the Contact info for one of the References and they told me to Forget about it. This job has medical and dental benefits after 3 months where the other job doesn't where I'd only be Part Time.

Anyway just wanted to let my friends know what happened with yesterday.

Thank you Lord for helping me get the Successful Medical and Licence Transfered to Ontario. Please watch over the Family and Friends.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Today's The Medical

2010-09-21T09:50:00.000-04:00

At 1300 hrs is my Medical, it was a long time in coming, but I thank God that it is here. Hopefully after the Medical I will be able to continue on to Kitchener and have the Licence transfered to the Equivalent Ontario Licence. As it stands now I will have the C Licence, but if I am successful in passing my written test, I will be leaving with the B Licence which will allow me to be able to drive more vehicles. I actually need the B Licence for two jobs I applied for, for which I already had an Interview with one place.

Had time for myself yesterday and met up with my Friend Wendy and we went for a walk around Victoria Park, Pictures to follow later.

Must get ready to get out the door as there are a couple of errands I got to run.

Oh the Lads have made them quite themselves at Home, and I am afeared when I finally get my own place, they will not want to move.

Lord, please watch over my family and friends, and please allow me to have a successful Medical so I can have my Licence transfered over.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #49

2010-09-19T17:30:00.020-04:00

The Knots Prayer

2010-09-19T12:59:00.001-04:00

I received this in an email from my Cousin today, and thought I'd share it here. To read the message on the picture, just click on the image and it will open itself into a new window you can conveniently close off once you are finished.

Yesterday was spent finding my way to the Conestoga Mall to attend a Volunteer Fair. I decided instead of driving I'd take the bus, well two buses to get there. It took about 90 minutes by bus, and this was including the "iXpress Bus". The iXpress bus is a Limited Stops, Something Similar to Calgary's "BRT Routes", between Cambridge and Waterloo with the Conestoga Mall in Waterloo being the end of line. The Ainslie Terminal in Cambridge it the other end of line. The iXpress also passes through Kitchener on the Way to Waterloo. The iXpress route was quick considering the distance, about the only thing that was a disadvantage was the bus was packed and only got worse at it moved along it's route. This route should have "Articulated Buses" to accommodate the people traveling on it.

Getting to the Conestoga Mall it was no time finding the Volunteer Fair Set up in Centre Court of the Mall. I met some nice people and found some wonderful organisations who are in need of Volunteers and for which I'd be happy to Volunteer for them. I spent a couple of hours in the Mall, including having lunch in the Food Court. Note to all my friends, Food Court the Country/World over isn't all that great. Yesterday I had lunch at the Bourbon Street Grill, the Chicken and Broccoli/Carrot mixture was good, but the Yellow Coloured Fried Rice was horrible. Note to self, next time go with the Pasta like that Little Voice Told you.

Once through at the Mall it was time to be a Sardine again until I got Downtown in Kitchener and dismounted at the Charles Street Terminal. Then it was only a couple block walk to where my Sister works and to wait. When I walked into the building I didn't want to just walk into the Day Program, and I really was in need of finding the Loo, but I met my Sister in the Hall with one of the Participants. I stopped for a bit and had a visit with both but then it was off to find the Loo. {Bouncy Bus Rides always make me have to go}. This is even when I was driving the Dang Critters.

Once my Sister was finished for the day it was off for home. The rest of the day was spent putzing on the computer, visiting, having supper, more putzing then off to bed. Today I was up early, fed the boys, then off to the "Metro" to pick up the things for Breakfast. I suggested we have pancakes and I was soon off to get the things for Breakfast, with a stop at the "Timmie's for our Coffee's {I had a Steeped Tea with two cream}.

Note to self when picking up the Blueberries for the Pancakes. Read the labels carefully. The large thing of Blueberries I thought I was getting for $3.99 was actually Mini~Grapes. The Blueberries were on for $3.49 in a smaller container. I guess what I thought was a Bargain really wasn't at all. But hey, the Pancakes tasted really good anyway, even with the seeds from the grapes.

Oh, if you stop by the blog I created for "The Old Fart's Adventure To Cambridge" you can get caught up on Day 1 of the journey and Day 1 the Hotel. You can visit by clicking on the Convenient Link here, or by finding the blog under my "Other Blogs and Goodies".

In about 5 hours my latest MfM will be posted. I had a bit of fun with this weeks photo Susan provided. First I thought what in the heck am I going to use for Captions, then once I started I just kept going. Wait for 1730 EDT and you will see.

Thank you Lord for the Wonderful Sunday, please watch over my Family and Friends.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

The Clinic

2010-09-17T14:12:00.002-04:00

Since I posted yesterday, I had a call from the Clinic later in the day yesterday afternoon and my Medical is Scheduled for next week. Tuesday at 1300 hrs to be exact. So hopefully it it doesn't take too long I should be able to get to the MTO and have my Licence changed over to the Equivalent Ontario Drivers Licence the same day. Then I can think about getting the car registered soon after. But it is important to get the Driver's Licence done first. Then I'll have to have the Insurance done, then the Car Registered. And to Register the Car I need to have a Safety Inspection and a Emissions Test done. I am sure all will pass, but will still ask God to watch over the car to make sure I can get it registered here.

Thank you everyone for your kind words and prayers.

Oh stop by the new blog I've started with the Old Fart's Adventure to Ontario. I have posted day one today With Pictures Yeah.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

I May Be Getting Close To Celebration ~ Maybe!!!!!!!

2010-09-16T11:13:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I had two interviews and both went very well and I had one this morning and it went well. Two are for driving Shuttle Buses, and the third is for Driving a Junk Pick Up. The Shuttle Bus interview yesterday was for Full Time, with Benefits after three months. It would be driving a Shuttle Bus through the Industrial Area of Waterloo picking up workers like a regular Transit Route. The hours would be 0730 to 1730, with some breaks in there.

The second job interview was for working at a Junk Pick Up company. It is the same kind of job as what I used to haul my stuff away to the dump. No benefits with this job, but the fellow said if I got the Full Time Shuttle bus job, I could still work for him Part Time.

The interview for today was Part Time, Working about 2 hours in the AM and 2 hours in the PM, delivering Special Needs Children from their homes to School in the Morning, then back home from school in the PM. I could never move to Full Time and being Part Time there'd be no Benefits.

I was told with the Shuttle Bus jobs, I could start as early as next week. The job for driving the Junk Truck the fellow will have his decision the first of next week. All said that I need to call them Straight Away when I get my Ontario Drivers Licence.

Legally I could drive a bus from Alberta to Ontario and drive it in Ontario. It would have to be Registered with Alberta Plates. But to Drive a Bus in Ontario registered in Ontario, I need an Ontario Licence which makes sense.

Which leads me to my stop at the Clinic today. I think I told you last week it is very hard getting a Family Doctor in the Region of Waterloo. It would be easier finding a Virgin in a Maternity Ward {Infants Excluded}. Well today on the way back from Kitchener, I stopped at the Clinic. First they tried to tell me I wasn't there until I showed them the Receipt from last week where I paid my $40.00 Admin Fee.

They then found my Paper Work which wasn't properly filled out, but they never called me to tell me. Which is now filled out per the Doctor's Wishes. So maybe we are now on the way to seeing a Doctor. I was told by the Receptionist that she now needs to see how much it is going to cost to have the Physical and will get back to me maybe by the end of today to make that appointment. I am going to give it a couple of days, and if I don't hear from them will try to see if I can get into an Urgent Care Clinic in Kitchener. If anyone wants to keep happy thoughts for me, it is for the Clinic calling with an appointment in the next couple of days.

Thank you Lord for watching over us, keep my friends safe and well. Thank you for the Interviews and helping me to get around this new area.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Top Ten Films They Should Have Made Blogfest

2010-09-14T17:07:00.000-04:00

Inspired by the recent revelation that Clint Eastwood was asked to play both James Bond and Superman, I’ve decided to hold my first film related blogfest.

Ever looked at your favourite actor or actress and thought they should have been Luke Skywalker or Supergirl? Ever wondered how hilariously funny it might have been to watch Danny DeVito play Dirty Harry or Walter Matthau as The Godfather? Well now’s your chance to blog about it. On the 9th November tell us all about your top ten alternate actors and actresses, and the films you wanted to see them in and why. Give us your list of the good, the bad, the ugly, and the downright weird.

Sign up to the Top Ten Films They Should Have Made Blogfest below. Enjoy!

On another note, just wanted everyone to know that tomorrow 14 September, 2010 I have two interviews in Waterloo at 1030 hrs then at 1330 hrs I have another interview in Kitchener.

The one for Waterloo is for Shuttle Bus Operator, and the second one is for driving a truck for picking up other Folk's Junk.

It has been a busy couple of days, hopefully soon I'll be able to relax a bit with the stress coming down a peg or more.

Just wanted to let everyone know about Ellie's Contest and update you, my friends, with what is going on with me.

Thank you Lord for watching over us, keep my friends safe and well.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #48

2010-09-12T17:30:00.019-04:00

This Week Had Seven Days.

2010-09-11T10:28:00.006-04:00

OK some of you might think what does this Blog Post title mean. My regulars who visit know I have a Weird Sense of Humor. Well a little bit ago, 1964 to 1966 "CBC" Television had a show called "This Hour has Seven Days". The follow excerpt if from CBC's own website.

"In just two seasons between 1964 and 1966, This Hour has Seven Days staked its claim as the most defiant and controversial program in Canadian broadcasting history. Created by Douglas Leiterman and Patrick Watson, Seven Days launched a new era of public affairs television, actively taking on the role of the nation's ombudsman and interrogator. Some — including certain members of the CBC brass in Ottawa — called it "sensationalism," "arrogant" and a breach of journalistic neutrality. But Canadians loved it. Millions tuned in every Sunday night at 10 p.m. to watch the show everyone would be talking about the next day."

It doesn't seem like a week since I've been here. I guess having it the Labour Day weekend made it seem to go faster. Last Saturday I was out to get the Cellphone Changed over to a local Number from my old Calgary number. I thought it would be a good idea to have a local number for the places I applied to call.

Sunday was spend relaxing and getting things geared up. I found a place on my Sister's Dining Room table to set up my computer. The problem was being able to connect to the Internet. We solved that by using the old Wireless Network Adapter that was in my Nephew's old desk top computer he doesn't use now. All I needed to do was install the drivers for it.

Monday being the holiday there wasn't that much to do so surfed the Internet, looking at job postings online. If I had my Class 1 {A} Licence I could have a job tomorrow. Currently I have my Class 2 {B or C depending on the Jurisdiction} License with Air Brake ticket. I did apply for a lot of Class 4 {D} jobs, as well as some for Shuttle Bus, and some where My Class Licence is required.

So far I've only had one Email in response to my applying, but they would like to meet me on Monday. It would be driving School Buses and other Shuttle Buses. But all is not lost, as one of my friends who is now living in the US texted me about a job he used to have when he was still living here in Canada. He now has a chain of Second Run Movie Theatres in California.

My Buddy Arnie texted me that he was in contact with his old friend and told him about me and that this friend wanted to talk to me. This job is about a 30 minute drive from where I am currently at in a place called Woodstock. With this job, I'd be driving vehicles anywhere in Canada, then maybe driving something back or flying back. It sounds like an interesting job, but we will have to wait.

It will be easy to have my Alberta Licence transferred to the equivalent Ontario Licence. All I need is to have the Driver's Medical and then I can have the Licence transferred for the $15.00 fee. Then next year I will have to rewrite the Driver's Exam and my Licence is good for another 5 years. Unlike Alberta where if you are a certain age, you have to renew the licence every two years with a medical.

It is when I get to 80 Years Old {If I am Lucky Enough} the licence is renewed every two years. I have actually been thinking once I get my licence transferred over, going back to school and upgrading my licence to a Class 1 {A} licence.

It is finding a doctor that will take new patients, but unfortunately I cannot find one. Finding a doctor that takes new patients in the Region of Waterloo is like trying to find a "Virgin" in a Maternity Ward. Virtually Impossible. There is this walk in clinic here in Cambridge, and I had to pay {Get This} $40.00 to have the doctor look at my Medical Form for the Driver's Medical Exam. Then the doctor will decide in two weeks whether they can do the medical or not. And if they can I pay the fee. {This is the most important thing at the moment I need prayer on}. If I can't get the medical through the clinic, I may be hooped.

The cats have seemed to settle in. They don't even appear to want to come upstairs. They seem happy to be rattling around in the Basement. Well sometimes Alexander would like to come upstairs, but that is because he wants to get to my Sister's Canary Ringo. Alexander being a street boy for over 2 years before coming to live with Haimish and myself still has that Wild Nature to him and would probably enjoy a lunch of Canary. Haimish on the other hand has no interest in Ringo at all.

It was either last Saturday or Sunday that the lads were up from the basement {This was before Alexander saw Ringo} and Winnie came in from Outside. Winnie is my Sister's "Chow". A very lovable fellow who isn't bred to be a hunter. Well Haimish just stayed on the Stairs leading to the Upper Level of the house to the bedrooms, and watched with interest, but didn't show he was scared.

Alexander on the other hand took an immediate dislike for Winnie and his tail grew to twice it's diameter and began a hissing fit like you'd never believe. This is the first time in the 4 years and a bit that I witnessed Alexander get so hateful. He was immediately shown downstairs and for the rest of the evening wandered around the basement in a Pissy Mood.

And all poor Winnie wanted to do was be friends, I think in time Haimish and Winnie could be friends, but I might as well just forget about Alexander being friends. I understand why Alexander is like this, as I am sure when he was a Street Boy, fighting for his life he came upon dogs who were not as friendly as Our Winnie.

Well it is a beautiful day, Every one is off somewhere so I am going to get ready, and go explore the Cities. I am going to see if I can fine my way to the "Conestoga Mall" in "Waterloo" and see if I can find "Timothy's" and have a good cup of coffee.

Just wanted to thank everyone who have kept me in prayer and good thoughts for the move and that I'll find some decent work soon.

Thank you Lord for getting me here, please watch over my friends.

A Blessed Weekend is wished of all.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Portrait of Words # 32

2010-09-08T23:09:00.001-04:00

"Thom" host a Monthly challenge with "Portrait of Words" that allows you to compose a story with some pictures He provides. Have a go if you already didn't try, it is fun and you may surprise yourself.

On with the Continuing Story of Blanche MacNaughton ~ duVet.

Before we begin, I got to let you know I banged this story off in a couple of hours. So it might not be up to Regular Standards.

Enjoy

Blanche couldn't wait to get back to the Village with Hector, she wanted to show him off to everyone, even the Village Witch. Hector had his 1955 Ford Fairlane shipped ahead of their arrival in the Village so as they have transportation. Blanche's 1060 Ford Galaxie gave up the ghost about a month before she left for Cartagena.

Blanche and Hector decided it was time to come back to Canada so as the Family could get to meet him. Blanche was going to introduce Hector to the Family, then with plans on making a trip to the Mountains. Carmen was going to meet up with them when they arrived in Banff or Lake Louise, she wasn't too sure as she needed to work out the details of the restaurant and who'd be tending to it whilst she was away.

Blanche always wanted to make that trip to Lake Louise, in fact just before Frankie was killed by the 100 lb bags of Bird Seed falling on him, they were to make the trip.

Hector realised that Blanche still had feeling for Frankie, just as he knew Blanche was aware that he still had feelings for Maria. Hector then suggested they have another Family Reunion in the Mountains, he'd pay for the whole outing.

Blanche still couldn't get over that Hector now was one of the Wealthiest Men in Cartagena, by buying the Transit System he used to work for. It also didn't hurt that he won the Mega Lotto a few years ago with the Grand Prize being worth about $200,000,000.00 Canadian. But with the Money, Hector was bored and needed his Darling Bus Wench back, this is why he came up with the Ruse of Carmen being in some sort of trouble and he needing Blanche's help.

Blanche and Hector then discussed who would be able to attend. Blanche had dreams of having the Reunion up in the Mountains away from the Chateau. She heard of this place across the lake and up the Ski Tow where private chalets could be rented on a daily, weekly or monthly rate.

For sure Mitchell, Sasha, PrimRose and Guido would be there with their kids. Blanche was a Grandmother Again. Mitchell and Sasha had another daughter who they call Bracken. PrimRose still had to tell Blanche that she was expecting another child. Oh the things Blanche missed out on the Year she and Hector enjoyed their Wedded Bliss in Cartagena.

Bernice wouldn't be able to attend as Sébastien was unable to get away from the Clinic. Byong-Soon would be there but would be arriving a few days late as Graeme couldn't get away just at the moment. Eunice and Harry were living out in the Mountains now and could drive and meet them when the Reunion was to take place.

One place that Blanche wanted to go was to Golden nestled in the Heart of the Rockies in British Columbia. Blanche heard that the Big Horn Sheep were so tame that they come up and eat right out of one's hand.

Hector was so in Love with Blanche he'd probably offer her the moon if he could. The year in Cartagena, well Blanche never felt this good, well since she was with her Frankie. In a way Hector and Frankie were somewhat the same, they both had a strange sense of humor, for example. When Blanche and Hector were first married, Hector rented a Horse Drawn Carriage and had a Piano Player play Max Steiner Film Scores as they had the Romantic Moonlit Ride through the Quiet Streets of Cartagena.

It was walking through Esmeralda and Bart's garden that Blanche got a bit sentimental. It was over a year that Bart and Esmeralda went onto a Better Place, but when Hector pulled the Carrots out of the ground, it was as if it was only last week that they were gone.

Blanche turned away from Hector, she didn't want to him to see her with tears in her eyes. Hector realising she was having a bad time went and put his arm around her and said that he'd be her Knight in Shining Armour forever and would protect her, "His Darling Bus Wench".

This helps Blanche and she cuddles in Hector's warm embrace. He strokes her hair and gives her a quick peck on the cheek saying "Nothing will Separate us, we will be together forever".

It was then that Blanche looked up from Hector and happen to glance over at the Horses on the Ranch next door to Esmeralda's. It couldn't be could it, along came a Solitary Rider on Horseback.

Blanche has to take a Double Take.........................

................It was Frankie riding up to Esmeralda's with a Big Red Lollipop.

OK, I know I said that I was retiring Blanche with Hector in Cartagena. But whilst I was on the 5 day drive across the country from Calgary to Ontario I thought of ways to resurrect Blanche. It was passing through Northern Ontario along the Shore of Lake Superior I thought of this.

Anyway I couldn't just quit writing about Blanche. You all have come to Love her and her Antics so much.

Now How the Heck do I incorporate Next Months Pictures.

A Blessed Month is Wished for Everyone.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

Bill ~ "The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Eight Simple Questons ~ I've Been Tagged !!!

2010-09-08T12:36:00.004-04:00

Recently I was invited by my Good Friend "Hope" with this meme, who was enticed by "Our Thom" with the same meme. So I thought I'd take a bit of a break from the chores of getting settled, finding that job, changing registrations with the car and drivers licence and answer the questions to this meme.

As for the job hunting and the rest, well that is a post all on it's own. Oh I created a new Blog with the "Adventure to Cambridge" and once things are settled will tell of my 5 Days Magical Mystery Tour. Well at least I got pictures of the trip this time. In the Mean While if you haven't had a chance yet, pop by my blog I created on my "Adventure to Calgary" all them years ago. Oh, to read the adventure from beginning to end, you have to find the archives and start with Jan 03 post and then when done, click on the newer posts to continue the adventure.

1. Why did you start blogging?
I started blogging way back on New Years Eve of 2004. My Buddy Ritchie created a blog {Which he no longer has available} and sent me the link to it. I thought this might be fun and created mine. I first created it to have as an Online Diary just for myself, but it evolved into what it is today. Through my Blog I met a lot of nice friends and I do cherish your friendship. Some have remained visitors, one friend I no longer have as God called him home, {I like to think Dr John is watching over all of us now} and some came for a bit then left without even a goodbye.

2. If you could travel anywhere in the world with no restriction of costs, where would it be and why?
Scotland, My Dad was born there and my Mum's Grandfather immigrated to Canada {Nova Scotia} back in the late 1800's. Mum being a Fraser from the Highlands.

3. Did you have a teacher in school that had a great influence on your life? If so, what?
I am sure I did, just at the moment I can't pick just one. Different teachers in my life taught me different things about life. I like to think the Teachers that meant the most were my Mum and Dad. As well as my Gram and Uncle Jim who I only have fond memories of.

4. If you could spend the day with a famous person, who would it be, and what would you do?
Wow, what a question. I don't get into the spending time with the Rich and Famous. If I could spend one more day with anyone I think it would be either Mum or Dad. Just to let them know that I am surviving, what I have been up to the last few years. If it was Dad, I'd like to go fishing again and maybe watch a train together.

5. Toilet paper – over or under?
Does it really matter, as long as some is there when you need it most.

6. Name one thing in your life that you would do over if possible.
20/20 is hindsight, I am a firm believer things happen for a reason, whether we call it God's Will, fate or if it was in the stars. I have things that I did in the past that I wish never happened but to do it over again, I don't think so.

7. Tell about your pets – if any.
My Haimish and Alexander. My Cats who are real troopers and now living in my Sister's Basement until we get our own place. The poor little fellows, has their world ever been turned "Down Side Up" in the last few weeks. First their world in Calgary changing, then the 5 days in the car to end up being put in a Basement. Well they have finally adjusted and seem happy to be Basement Dwellers. Well at least Winnie {My Sister's Dog} doesn't seem to mind them being here, and I think he really would like to be friends.

8. Do you live in a small town or a large town?
I am currently living in a Small City of approx. 180,000 Souls. Well I guess 180,001 now. I moved from a City of over 1,230,248 Souls guestimated to be in 2009. When I moved to Calgary in 1996 the population was approx. 768,082 Souls.

Well now that I've taken a few minutes to answer Hope's invite, it is time to get busy. In a few I am off to get some things for Supper, making my Hobo Stew, have to get the Hair Cut and see if I can find that store where My Sister and I stopped at yesterday that had the Biscuits that melted in one's mouth.

Oh according to the rules of Memedom, I am supposed to tag some friends. Well guess what, I don't tag. I am a firm believer if you like you can try it youself if you want. As for being Exiled from Blogdom, Ask me if I care.

A Blessed Week is wished of all.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #47

2010-09-05T17:30:00.002-04:00

The Cab Ride

2010-09-05T11:45:00.001-04:00

I received this in an Email the other day from a friend whilst I was on my journey East. I thought I'd share it here.

The Cab Ride

I Arrived at the address and honked the horn.
After waiting a few minutes I walked to the
Door and knocked.. 'Just a minute', answered a
Frail, elderly voice. I could hear something
Being dragged across the floor.

After A long pause, the door opened. A small woman in
Her 90's stood before me. She was wearing a
Print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned
On it, like somebody out of a 1940's
Movie.

By her side was a small nylon
Suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had
Lived in it for years. All the furniture was
Covered with sheets.

There were no Clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils
On the counters. In the corner was a cardboard
Box filled with photos and Glassware.

'Would you carry my bag
Out to the car?' she said. I took the suitcase
To the cab, then returned to assist the
Woman.

She took my arm and we walked
Slowly toward the curb.

She kept Thanking me for my kindness. 'It's nothing', I
Told her.. 'I just try to treat my passengers
The way I would want my mother
Treated.

'Oh, you're such a good
Boy, she said. When we got in the cab, she gave
Me an address and then asked, 'Could you drive
Through downtown?'

'It's not the
Shortest way,' I answered
Quickly...

'Oh, I don't mind,' she
Said. 'I'm in no hurry. I'm on my way to a
Hospice.

I looked in the rear-view
Mirror. Her eyes were glistening. 'I don't have
Any family left,'
she continued in a soft
Voice.. 'The doctor says I don't have very
Long.' I quietly reached over and shut off the
Meter.

'What route would you like me
To take?' I asked.

For the next two
Hours, we drove through the city. She showed me
The building where she had once worked as an
Elevator
Operator.

We drove through the
Neighborhood where she and her husband had lived
When they were newlyweds She had me pull up in
Front of a furniture warehouse that had once
Been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a
Girl.

Sometimes she'd ask me to slow
In front of a particular building or corner and
Would sit staring into the darkness, saying
Nothing..

As the first hint of sun was
Creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, 'I'm
Tired. Let's go
now'.

We drove in
Silence to the address she had given me. It was
A low building, like a small convalescent home,
With a driveway that passed under a
Portico.

Two orderlies came out to
The cab as soon as we pulled up. They were
Solicitous and intent, watching her every move..
They must have been expecting her.

I Opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to
The door. The woman was already seated in a
Wheelchair.

'How much do I owe you?'
She asked, reaching into her
Purse.

'Nothing,' I
Said

'You have to make a living,' she
Answered.

'There are other
Passengers,' I responded.

Almost
Without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She
Held onto me tightly.

'You gave an
Old woman a little moment of
joy,' she Said.
'Thank you.'

I squeezed her
Hand, and then walked into the dim morning
Light.. Behind me, a door shut.. It was the sound
Of the closing of a life....

I didn't
Pick up any more passengers that shift.. I drove
Aimlessly lost in thought. For the rest of that
Day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman had
Gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient
To end his shift?
What
If I had refused to take the run, or had honked
Once, then driven away?

On a quick
Review, I don't think that I have done anything
More important in my life.

We're
Conditioned to think that our lives revolve
Around great
moments.

But great
Moments often catch us unaware-beautifully
Wrapped in what others may consider a small
One.

PEOPLE MAY NOT REMEMBER EXACTLY
WHAT YOU DID, OR WHAT YOU SAID ~BUT~THEY WILL
ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU MADE THEM
FEEL.

You won't get any big surprise
in 10 days if you send this to ten people.. But,
you might help make the world a little kinder
and more compassionate by sending.
it on and
reminding us that often it is the random acts of
kindness that most benefit all of
us.

Thank you, my
friend...

Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we
are here we might as well dance.

A Blessed Week is wished of all.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

We Are Here

2010-09-03T22:40:00.001-04:00

Well we've made it. I am at my Sisters with the car unpacked and stored in Edie's Basement until I get my own place. It was a wonderful drive across the country, I took over 1000 pictures, which I now have to sort through and decide what I want to share.

What I am probably going to do is create a new blog with the Old Fart's Adventure to The Region of Waterloo. In the 14 years that I last made the drive {Westbound that time}, a lot has changed along the way.

The Ferry ride between South Baymouth and Tobermory was a nice rest from the driving. It was like taking a Short Inland Sea Cruise. Oh, if you ever make the trip on the Ferry, take a Healthy Appetite as the Plate is heaped.

I am just too tired right now to continue on, so am going to crash soon. Just wanted to let you know I made it safely. Haimish and Alexander survived the journey and are now happily {I Hope} rattling around Edie's Basement exploring things.

I just want to thank everyone for the good wishes and prayers offered for the journey. I am going to take the Weekend to recharge then come Tuesday start that new journey with looking for a job.

Susan you betcha once I get my bearings we can meet for that coffee, and nothing says you can't come across to this side of the Border. Cindy one of these days I will come find you in New York State. I think I am about 3 hours away now.

Thank you Lord for getting me safely across the country, Bless all my friends.

A Blessed Weekend is wished of all.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #46

2010-08-29T17:30:00.004-04:00

Off To The Cable Company

2010-08-27T13:02:00.001-04:00

I am off to the Cable Company in a few minutes to return the Digital Box for the TV and the Phone Terminal and have services terminated. I am going to see if they can keep the internet active until I leave on Monday. If not, then we will next yak when I get to Ontario, though I am going to see if I can find an Internet Cafe along the way, so as I can check in and let everyone know the Progress of the Journey.

I don't think there will be a problem with keeping the Internet for a couple of more days, as I own the Internet Modem and it doesn't need to be returned with the rest of the things.

Haimish and Alexander have their appointment later today with their Veterinary. I know this will be a Trip and a Half alone. I am going to try to get some sedatives for the boys so the trip across the country will be somewhat peaceful. Yesterday when I tried to put Haimish in his carrier, he had the door broken off and was Out like Flint before one could blink.

I tried to put him in his carrier whilst the Junk Men were here taking the things away. I had to lock Haimish and Alexander in the Bathroom until they were gone. The poor lads are not in the best of moods, and if any of you want to offer prayer, please make it for The Lads and for them to have an uneventful trip across this Wonder Country I call home.

Well the Camera is fully charged to take some pictures, but I must now sign out and get off to the Cable Company.

Seeing all of you when I get to Cambridge

Lord Bless all my Friends, keep them safe.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #45

2010-08-22T17:30:00.000-04:00

Microfiction Monday #44

2010-08-15T17:32:00.009-04:00

Send In The Clowns

2010-08-13T13:49:00.000-04:00

Just in the mood to share one of my favorite songs.

Enjoy

A Blessed Weekend is Wished for Everyone.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

Bill ~ "The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Portrait of Words # 31

2010-08-10T20:30:00.002-04:00

"Thom" host a Monthly challenge with "Portrait of Words" that allows you to compose a story with some pictures He provides. Have a go if you already didn't try, it is fun and you may surprise yourself.

Alice at "Alice Audrey" supplied this months photos. Thank you Alice for supplying such wonderful Pictures. Only the Good Lord knows where they will Lead Blanche and the Family.

Oh, I broke up the one picture of the two bridges into their own photo, So Bonus, we have Seven Pictures this Month to work with. Thom's A Pussy Cat, he won't mind.

For those who need a Refresher on Blanche's Trip to Cartagena, you may want to "Visit Here" before reading this installment.

On with the Continuing Story of Blanche MacNaughton ~ duVet.

As Trans Global Flight Zero Zero Seven "The Spanish Fly" was travelling over Columbia with Approach into Cartagena, Blanche thought back that the last time she visited was over Fifty Years ago. Why she let the Family talk her into Re~Visiting she really didn't have time to fully appreciate yet. But Hector was desperate for her to visit, and paid for her Air Fare {First Class} from Toronto to Cartagena. And would pay for her return when she so desired.

Looking out the window of the Airbus A380 Blanche saw a Bridge that she thought to herself, she wanted to visit. Blanche was always fascinated with Bridges, with the Golden Gate Bridge her favourite. The Bridge for which she was looking at from the plane made the St Elmira Bridge Pale in Comparison.

As for that night that Hector called, it was going to be a start to A Life Changing Event for Blanche. It was only a Week before the call from Hector, Esmeralda and Bart tied the Knot and were off on their Honeymoon. A Week later {A couple day's after Hector's Call} a Double Wake or "Last Look" was being observed at Flo n' Wagner's Funeral Parlour on Pleasant Street, with Services to Follow. It was just a bit too much for Bart and Esmeralda, but for a few weeks, they were happier than they ever imagined.

It was Standing Room only in the St Elmira Presbyterian Church, with The Reverend Flasher, almost into his 90's, preforming the Double Service Himself. It was a Sad time, and the Villagers were feeling a bit of guilt as to the way they treated Esmeralda all these years. Esmeralda had a few knocks in life and it was after she and Bart got together they found that she was truly a Gentle Woman.

The Reverend Flasher spoke from the Book of John on the story from the Bible about Jesus and the Woman who was accused with Adultery and Casting Stones. Then looking down on the Congregation he said "Let he who is without sin, cast the first stone on Her". Even with all that Esmeralda did in her past, The Reverend Flasher had a soft spot in his Heart for her and knew Deep Down that she was a Good "God Fearing" Woman.

Esmeralda once told Hortense {who told Blanche in case she should go before Esmeralda} she had just one request for her funeral; She wanted a Lone Piper playing "MacIntosh's Lament" at Graveside as she and Bart were laid to rest {With Bart's Blessing}. Esmeralda might have been born a MacAskill~Leveque but held true to her Father, William's, Scot's Roots. It brought a tear to everyone's eye when the Piper began to play the Lament at "The Shady Rest Cemetery" and only Exacerbated Blanche's guilt even more and she Cried like a Baby, with the family rushing to her side.

It was a very Stressful time for Blanche being wracked with Guilt, first getting Esmeralda and Bart together which resulted in a Double Funeral just more than a Month Later. Everyone tried to console Blanche and tried to let her know it wasn't her fault. Esmeralda and Bart were almost 100 Years Old {Esmeralda was 94, Bart was 96} How many Seniors at that Age got to be like Teenagers again? Before Bart Died, he had his will changed {With Esmeralda's Blessing} to give the Farm to PrimRose and Guido.

As for the Frantic Call from Hector and the revisit to Cartagena. well maybe this was God's way to get Blanche away so as to forget about The Village and to remember a somewhat pleasant time from her past.

Hector said that he regretted the way he broke the news to her about being Maria before the change. But now he needed her help as "His Beloved Carmen" was missing and he didn't know where to turn.

All he could tell Blanche over the phone was he received this picture in an email of a Carved Cabbage Head on a Serving Tray, and that if he wanted to see his Carmen again to meet the Old Fart with Her Accordion at a certain place, with date and time to be emailed later. The Email said that he needed to bring "That Canadian Woman ~ Blanche MacNaughton" with him.

It was only by luck that Hector found Blanche in St Elmira, as after Cartagena Hector wouldn't have known that Blanche became a duVet when she married Frankie. But Hector was lucky and the Long Distance Operator in Cartagena was able to talk to Nosy Ernestine the Local Operator in the Village and where she knew all about Blanche's trip to Columbia in 1955 and the scandal, connected Hector with Blanche right away.

Once Blanche was through customs she was met by Hector at the Gate. It was an Awkward meeting and Blanche couldn't get it out of her mind that this used to be Maria. But as soon as Hector spoke, it was like listening to "Walter Pidgeon" in "Weekend at the Waldorf" all over again. Somewhere Blanche thought she could hear Xavier Cugat playing his Signature piece of music "Perfidia".

An email to Hector's Blackberry said instructions would be posted on a Wall with finding the Old Fart and Her Accordion., A Text would be sent to Hector's phone once he and Blanche met up in the Airport with instructions to find this wall.

Hector realised that he and Blanche were being watched as they were meeting. Hector still being very much the Gentleman offered to see Blanche back to the Plane so as she wouldn't be put in Harms Way. Hector told her that he'd find his Carmen alone and didn't want to bring harm to his "Darling Bus Wench" from A Long Time Ago.

Blanche then thought that a lot of things have changed from the first meeting. It was now 2010, not 1955 and anyway, Blanche only knew Hector as Hector, not as Maria. So it didn't matter, with what the Village thought. She had the Blessing of her Sisters, Daughter and Son and Spouses. Even if Aunt Esmeralda were still alive, she'd probably approve. She just hoped that Aloysius and Ralph would be on their Best Behaviour whilst she was away. Blanche told Hector she was here to help and to "Lets go find that wall".

Getting to the Wall, Blanche and Hector found the note hidden in a Knot~Hole, with instructions to find "The Old Fart" and her Accordion. It said that they needed to go to a certain spot on the Waterfront and to await further instructions. Once there a Courier would find them and they'd be taken away on a unique craft of sorts.

Hector and Blanche were on the way to the Waterfront, with Hector given a Reader's Digest Version of the last 50 plus years of Blanche's life since they were last together. Hector told Blanche that once she turned him down he resigned himself that he'd be alone for the rest of his time on Earth. Never thinking they'd meet ever again, then when they were re~united Hector felt it was as if it was a Sign from God.

Once at the waterfront, what should be arriving but something that should be in a James Bond Movie, or maybe...... Blanche hoped if this was the start of an assignment with 007, it Dang well better be Sean Connery, though Blanche wouldn't say no if George Lazenby wanted to eat crackers in her bed.

As the craft approached the Quay, Blanche could see it was an older gentleman navigating the craft. Crap, well there goes her Sean {or even George}. He kind of looked like an Aged Paul Hogan, well Blanche always fancied a trip to Australia, but her mind was wandering enough and she was here to help Hector {Who was looking at her and wondering why she all of a sudden had this Wry Smile on her face}.

Getting into the Launch, Hector being very much the Gentleman, helped Blanche with the step across the gap between the Quay and the car/boat. There was just something that Blanche liked about Hector, and if her Inhibitions weren't stopping her, she might just find out if what she read was true or not. Blanche read somewhere once that when the change was complete everything worked as if they were born with it and not Medicinally Enhanced to work. Oh how Blanche wanted to find out and would give a Week of Wal~Mart Salary to see if it was true. The One thing she got from her Aunt Esmeralda was her Inquisitive Nature.

Being jolted back to reality of the moment, the Driver of the Craft told Hector and Blanche that he was going to take them to the Old Fart with the Accordion and she would tell them in song where to find Carmen. When Hector asked why his Carmen was taken to begin with, the Launch Driver said "He couldn't say as he didn't know but The Old Fart with the Accordion would have all the answers and everything would be revealed".

Once back on shore, Blanche and Hector waved bye to the Launch Driver, Cartagena is a friendly place, and they headed off for Downtown. On one of the Avenues, they heard the Simon n' Garfunkel Song "59th Street Bridge Song {Feelin' Groovy}" being played with an Accordion. Oh the memories that this song brought to Blanche. Frankie and Blanche Skipping through Downtown Montreal on Ste Catherine's St during Expo 67 to the song with a Big Red Lollipop each.

Rounding a corner there was the Old Fart with her Accordion. Blanche didn't see Hector Wink at the Accordion Player and she started to play "Bridge Over Troubled Waters". When the Old Fart was through with the Second Simon n' Garfunkel piece, she then began to play "Pink Floyd's Burning Bridges". Which sounded quite funny on the Accordion, but Blanche remembered the Launch Driver saying the mystery to where Carmen was would be revealed in song. "But Bridges???"

When Blanche asked Hector "What songs only about Bridges were about"?, he told her "To just listen to the lyrics to Pink Floyd's Burning Bridges and it would all make sense". It finally clued into Blanche what was going on and this Charade had nothing to do with finding Carmen.

Confronting Hector, he admitted that this was his way getting his "Darling Bus Wench" back but also did involve Carmen, and if Blanche wanted to find out the rest she was more than welcome. If not he'd be happy to take her back to the Airport so as she could catch the next Plane back to Toronto. Hector just asked Blanche to trust him and he'd be the Gentleman she knew him as oh so long ago and all would be answered.

Hector had it all planned, next a Limousine is arriving and they are Whisked away crossing the Same Bridge that Blanche saw from her Airplane Window on Trans Global Flight Zero Zero Seven. The Bridge crossed close to "Fortress San Fernando" guarding the approaches to Cartagena Bay.

Blanche asked Hector what was up and he Whispered, "Be Still My Darling, All will be Revealed Soon", in a Smooth Voice similar to Fernando Lamas. All of a Sudden Blanche had the Song "I Feel Pretty" going through her head. Blanche just melted at the thought, as she realised she was with an Old Friend. She was just wondering what this was all about and how was Carmen involved?

Once Across the Bridge, the Limousine turned off of the main highway and headed inland. A few kilometers up the road, they were turning into this Wee Village, something Similar to St Elmira. Blanche didn't know if it was the Quantities of the Champagne she drank but she was getting all warm inside again.

Soon the Limousine was stopping at a Really Fabulous Looking Restaurant, called the "Flor De Sol" or something like that. With all the Champagne that Blanche drank, she wasn't too sure. Getting inside, Blanche and Hector are greeted by the Maitre' d {who's dashing looks resembled Cesar Romero} and were seated in a quiet nook in the back overlooking Cartagena Bay. Candles are flickering on the Table as well as a spray of Lilacs leaving their Sweet Aroma. The Warm Sea Air was coming in through the open Window and with Xavier Cugat Music playing Perfidia softly in the Background, it just added to the Ambiance.

A lady is approaching the table, Hector says to Blanche, "Let me Introduce you to My Carmen". Carmen owned the Restaurant, and greeted Blanche as an Old Friend. Carmen told Blanche that she would never know how much it meant to her when she was young to have such a Good Friend as Blanche and always wondered why she left without a goodbye {Carmen always blamed herself for Blanche's Quick Departure, even though Hector told her the truth behind Blanche's leaving after she grew up}. Carmen told Blanche that she was sorry she wasn't nicer to her back in 1955 and asked for her forgiveness and wished that she would be friends now.

Blanche goes pale and searches her purse for a Sweet Caps Cigarettes. Before she knows it Hector reaches for her Sweet Caporals and says "Shall we just have a Cigarette on it", then taking Two and lighting both together, Passed one back to Blanche and said; "Oh Blanche, Don't Lets Ask for the Moon, We Have the Stars". Blanche Knew she found her Love, Who Else would know that the Classic Finale in "Now Voyager" was from her all time favorite film. Even more favorite than "Weekend at the Waldorf".

Hector was saying "Forgive me My Love, I didn't know how else to get you back, I am sorry as to how things went in 1955". Hector then went on to tell Blanche he was really Hector, and not Maria as he let Her Believe back then. Hector in 1955 still had feelings for Maria and was scared that he'd forsake her Memory if he Married Blanche.

Blanche at this moment didn't care anymore, and she'd let things take her where ever they wanted too. It might have been Unrequited Love or just Too much Champagne, Whatever it was, she Wanted Hector and she Wanted him Now. If only Poor Aunt Esmeralda was here, What would she Think, What would her Own Mother Hortense Think?

...........Mitchell's Blackberry is getting an Email Message. .........

Dear Mitchie;

I am staying for an extended visit in Cartagena with Hector, and don't know when I will be back. Let the Family know everything is absolutely wonderful and this is the Happiest I've been since I was with your Dad. Oh, in the Next Couple of Days, Hector wants to have Aloysius and Ralph here in Cartagena with both of us, Get them to Doc Go~Lightly so as they can have all their shots. Hector will make sure you are Re~Imbursed. Hector says the sooner they are with Mummie and Daddie, the happier they will be. Let us know when they are ready, Hector is going to have a Special Courier Pick them up and Flown Down in his Private Jet.

Hugs and Kisses to Everyone I miss all of you.

Love Mum.....................

And Thus;

Comes a Close to the Continuing Story of Blanche MacNaughton ~ duVet.

This was fun but I wanted to end the story on a High Note. I was really running out of things to write about. And to quote Ian Fleming, "I've Run out of Puff and Zest". Ian was talking about ending his James Bond series with "You Only Live Twice". In fact the novel had James' Obituary from the Times of London in the Book. Ian did have one more novel in him with James Bond, "The Man With The Golden Gun".

So...............

Who knows in the future Blanche may return, but as for now, we are taking a bit of a rest and going to let Blanche enjoy her Golden Years with Hector in Cartagena with her Aloysius n' Ralph by her side.

Who knows maybe the Gang will visit in Cartagena in future.

A Blessed Month is Wished for Everyone.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

Bill ~ "The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #43

2010-08-08T17:30:00.009-04:00

A Funny With A Message.

2010-08-05T11:56:00.001-04:00

One just never knows where one is going to go when they search for things on the Internet. I came across this video whilst on the search for something else I cannot remember what I was searching for. With the Video, It just goes to show that we should be careful what we say in Public as we don't know who is hearing us. I have a couple of stories that I'll share someday with what I said, then realised I wasn't the only one on the bus.

I can only assume Mum Drives Transit Buses for a Living.

Enjoy, Be warned that some of you may be offended.

A Blessed Week is wished of all.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #42

2010-08-01T17:37:00.004-04:00

Thinking Of Dad

2010-07-29T19:35:00.005-04:00

I am thinking about my Dad today. It is Twenty Seven years ago today he went home to be with the Lord. I am not really missing him {Sometimes I do}, or wishing he was here, I am just thinking back with some wonderful memories of him.

The picture of Dad was taken when we made our trip to British Columbia from Nova Scotia in 1980. Mum, Dad and I took the Train there and back. In the Picture you can see that Dad is totally enjoying his visit to the Mountains and was truly happy to be back in the West. We were staying with my Aunt Shirley and our Cousins in a small village called Youbou, a Lumbering Town. It was the trip of a lifetime, and 30 years later I can close my eyes and relive that trip.

Dad was ready to sell everything and move to BC, he even had Realtors ready to come to the house. Unfortunately not too much longer after we got home Dad's heart started to give him problems. In Three Years he'd be gone.

This is a picture of my Mum taken the same day. Mum and Dad got up early and went for a walk before anyone else got up.

Tomorrow I have it planned to make one more trip to the Rockies with my friend Malcom. Tomorrow the trip will be my last time I will be in my Beloved Mountains so tomorrow the trip isn't just for me, it is for my Dad as well.

Thank you Lord for letting me have my last visit to the Mountains.

A Blessed Weekend is wished of all.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #41

2010-07-25T17:30:00.020-04:00

Our Susan over at "Stony River" hosts Microfiction Monday. I thought I'd give it a try and see if I can come up with something. The idea is to use Susan's picture she posts then compose a story up to and including characters, punctuation marks, etc adding up to 140. I believe you can use less but not more. Susan provided a "Convenient Link" {Everyone should have one in a Convenient Pocket} if you need help in attaining that magic number of 140.

♫When you Wish upon a Star, Makes no difference who...♫. Chekov was now thinking that the fling with the Klingon Wench.... well it was..♥♥♥

"Here's the Song"

Or;

♫Fairy tales can come true, it can happen....♫. Ernie didn't want it to a be dream, he really wanted to share his Rubber Ducky with Miss Piggy.

Yes I know this might not really happen, Ernie was part of Sesame Street and Miss Piggy was part of the Muppet Show, but they were both employed by Jim Hensen so I am sure their paths crossed in the Studio or the Commissary.

"Here's the Song"

Then I thought;

Bette knew that L B was full of it with his "More Stars than in the Heavens" crap. J L had; Her, Bogie, Claude, Olivia, Eddie, Jimmy, Pat, George, Ann, Joan, Paul, Gladys, Conrad, Doris, S.Z., Jack, Dennis, Barbara.... the list was endless.

OK, Bette used way more Characters than she was allowed, She wasn't a "Happy Camper" and had to vent.

With the last one, some of you may need a bit of help in getting it.

"Louis B Mayer" was the Head of "MGM" Studios during the Golden Era of Hollywood and was quoted as saying "MGM had More Stars than there are in the Heavens"

"Bette" is Bette Davis who worked out of the "Warner Bros" Studios during the Same Era.

"J L" is Jack Warner one of the Warner Brothers {Harry, Albert, Sam and Jack were the Warners}.

And;

Bogie ~ Humphrey Bogart
Claude ~ Claude Rains
Olivia ~ Olivia De Havilland
Eddie ~ Edward G. Robinson
Jimmy ~ James Cagney
Pat ~ Pat O'Brien
George ~ George Raft
Ann ~ Ann Sheridan
Joan ~ Joan Crawford
Paul ~ Paul Henreid
Gladys ~ Gladys Cooper
Conrad ~ Conrad Veidt
Doris ~ Doris Day
S.Z. ~ S.Z. Sakall
Jack ~ Jack Carson
Dennis ~ Dennis Morgan
Barbara ~ Barbara Stanwyck
....

You decide which one you like.

A Blessed Week is wished of all.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #40

2010-07-18T17:30:00.005-04:00

A Funny

2010-07-14T13:52:00.002-04:00

Sunday whilst I had a bit of time between runs got reading the Sunday Sun. This cartoon was with the Sunday Editorials. A little bit of Explanation is needed for some of my Readers.

In the Fall our Current "Governor General" is stepping down after a Wonderful Tenure. I truly believe "Michaëlle Jean" was one of the best we had. The point of the Cartoon is, David Johnson has been named the New Governor General.

Well some of the Trekkies North of the 49th wanted James Tiberius Kirk aka William Shatner named as Canada's Next Governor General.

Well that didn't happen, and I think I read somewhere that William Shatner didn't want the job anyway.

Enjoy

Oh you may want to stop by the other place, some recent posts made.

A Blessed Week is wished of all.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

"Bill ~ The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks

Microfiction Monday #39

2010-07-11T17:30:00.007-04:00

Que Sera Sera

2010-07-07T23:45:00.001-04:00

I've had a bit of time to think today, and one thing I decided to do was get rid of my Facebook Account. I don't use it anymore, and with the exception of a couple of friends and only one family member, it Looks as if NO ONE HAS GIVEN A SHIT that my life as well as Haimish's and Alexander's has been turned UP SIDE DOWN since the Break In.

Before I deactivated the Facebook though, I made sure I deleted all the photo albums I had as well as pictures I've uploaded to one Group I belonged to. Lets see how many actually realise I am gone.

I got a bit more to think about but for now I think Doris has summed it all up in this song.

This is also posted over at the other blog.

Into Paradise......................May the Angels lead you.

God Bless

Bill ~ "The Old Fart"

Remember - Life is God's Gift, Take Time to Give Thanks