2011 THOUGHTS-HOW WAS YOUR YEAR?

As one year begins to end and we anticipate a new one, it is always time for reflection. If it has had difficulties, there are is always the hope things will get better. Sometimes I have heard from others next year can't be worse than this one. Well don't bet on it! I usually suggest to think about what you have been able to survive, look at your strengths, and do not look too far down the road ahead! Things can always get worse, get better or stay the same! Funny but in the real world there are often fewer choices than we think. Even in some of our darkest moments, there have been rays of hope, positive people, funny twists and turns. 2011- a 40th anniversary for Adolph and me, crisis with my folks, same job that I love, challenging myself through whatever has come my way, a loving family and being there for others dealing with stressful and painful situations. Feeling good about a cousin's wedding, attending a grandson's first birthday, knowing a niece is pregnant, seeing my granddaughter start to get her second teeth, reading to two other grandsons and keeping up my blogging- even if some days it is a real stretch to write something, anything! Learning a new tech thing- well maybe I will finally know how to use my new RIM Playbook before 2011 ends! There have been many normal moments that make a life. I have learnt to stop and enjoy the little events in life-perhaps it is an aging thing! To feel good about just being, doing and noticing the world around me. Trying to turn any regrets that sneak into my life by looking for a solution, a challlenge, a positive twist! The half finished writing projects- to keep plugging away- even with all life's interruptions! To honour those that have touched my life! On those days where it is a struggle to get out of bed, to put one foot down at a time and move forward. Like someone said Seize the Day! Have a purpose, a goal, a task, and a life will evolve. Oh yes, remember to dream and then think about how to make those dreams a reality! 2011- what will be your thoughts and memories of the year?

NANA SAYS ENJOY THOSE SCHOOL BREAKS AT CHRISTMAS

Now that the excitement of Christmas is over and the children do not go back to school for two weeks, it can be a good time to regroup as a family. Many parents also have reduced work hours and a chance to do activities with their children. It does not mean running around and shopping. Quiet ones like playing with the new toys for the little ones or having your older children teach you about your new gadgets. My Sonya is helping me with my new RIM Playbook! Close to my home there is a good hill by the library. When there is enough snow, old and young are toboganning or using a sled! Old fashioned fun. Little backyard skating rinks help the little ones practice their skating skills or even using a patch of ice found in parks would do. For the skiers and snowboarders, a chance to go to the slopes! Playing in the snow making snowmen or snow angels is also simple! A midwinter cleanup! Filtering through unused toys or items replacing with the newly acquired things. A drive to your major city, looking at the lights before the New Year when they all come down. Crafts, cookie making, a new recipe, or just watching movies together or even going out to a movie make for fun family moments. I remember enjoying the time at Christmas as a child. The break from school gave opportunities to lounge in my new jammies, read any new books and just play. As a teenager, spending time with friends and maybe a sleepover! Listening to music and dancing in my room! When my children were little, just enjoying the days off work to be with them! It can be a time of renewel before we face the rest of the winter. It is also a chance to establish some new winter routines to help enjoy a season most of us just tolerate. Children embrace snow and the joys it brings! Perhaps we can learn from them! What are some activities you do in winter? Are you enjoying the break with your children or grandchildren? Tell me your favourite winter tale!

FORMALITY IS FUN SOMETIMES

We all have formal and informal functions in our lives. Occasionally it is fun to experience the formal ones. A well laid table with a cloth napkin. Dressing in an evening dress and a suit with a tie for the sytlish couple. Needing impeccable manners! It can be a change from the daily routines. Knowing which fork to use and putting the pat of butter on the bread and butter plate. People are too casual and often need to remember there are other ways to live! Waiting for the hostess to start her meal before eating! Have you been to some formal events lately? Do you like the elegance of a fine dining restaurant?

BOXING DAY

Yesterday, December 26  was Boxing Day here in Canada. It started as a British tradition for the wealthy to give boxed gifts to their servants December 26. Most Commonwealth countries celebrate Boxing Day! It is a federal national holiday and a statuary holiday here in Ontario. If you work on Christmas and Boxing Day you get paid time and a-half! I like having the day off. Since Christmas was on a Sunday this year- the two stat days were Dec. 26 and 27th. Boxing Day is now about shopping for bargains and we actually have Boxing Week sales. The news showed how some people lined up at their favourite stores to get those post-Christmas bargains for hours. I used to go shopping for Christmas goodies. Now I wait a few days to go to some stores to find a couple of boxes of Christmas cards. Since I have a house full of Christmas items, I don't tempt myself by being in the stores with the crowds. I chose to babysit two of my grandchildren while my daughter shopped! Now all the email flyers sent have boxing day sales that can be shipped right to your home if you like! Some of the people interviewed yesterday actually said they would rather watch the Junior Hockey Championship games than shop- two girls! Hockey over shopping!! Boxing Day is also a day to "crash". Eat leftovers! Tidy up after the Christmas dinner-putting all the good dishes and platters away! Have a nap or read a book or listen to any new CDs received as presents. Boxing is a funny word though as we usually think of the sport of boxing! Or the expression- Don't box me in! Sometimes we put our lives in boxes! We give presents in boxes! There are Big Box stores with big bargains everywhere! Some churches still has an " alms box". We ship things in boxes. Some surburban homes are like rows of boxes! We store items in boxes! We can even be buried in a pine box! Boxing Day- what did it mean to you? Did you shop? Or just drop to relax and enjoy the day?

MY CANADIAN CHRISTMAS DAY

Not the whitest Christmas but there is a little sprinkling of snow on the ground. Opened presents with my hubbie, Adolph, had phone calls from both daughters, will be calling family out west later, Adolph has called Italy already and the vegetables are ready. I will be making my traditional Canadian bread stuffing for the turkey. We will have all the trimmings- mashed potatoes, gravy, bread with butter, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, brussel sprouts, sweet potatoe,cranberries, a few Italian sausages, wine, eggnog, and of course many, many desserts- the Christmas yule log,cupcakes with a Christmas theme for the children, homemade cookies and sweets and lots of chocolates. Our day is spent preparing the meal and anticipating the arrival of children, husbands and grandchildren. There are Christmas crackers to pop so we can wear the hats and find our little surprises inside. I even bought candy canes for the table in the shape of hockey sticks!

The best joy is being with family, reaching out to family that can not be with us and remembering those no longer with us! What do you do on your Christmas day? Have a joyous one!

O HOLY NIGHT

Christmas Eve means different things to different people. For some, the Seafood Italian dinner, opening presents, finishing wrapping presents, going to church, watching a favourite Christmas movie like- The Christmas Carol or just sipping a favourite beverage by the Christmas tree. May the blessings of the season bring you out of the cold, feed your belly and give you a warm, cozy place to sleep. Merry Christmas everyone!

CHRISTMAS REFLECTIONS

Christmas can be a time to remember, to reflect on the past year. Our Christmas cards or emails with a newsletter of the year's events brings everyone up to date on our lives. Little traditions from our childhood can come forward into the present.
I bought some fruitcake- a little one as it reminded me of the ones my Mom would make when I was a child. Some panetone for Adolph's Italian tradition! Delicious apples and large oranges- they were regulars in our Christmas stockings. My Mom grew up in the Canadian Depression so were reminders an apple and orange were a special treat in the 1930's. Eggnog is in the fridge since my Dad always wanted a drink of it at Christmas. Vermouth is in the house as I like to have at least one drink with some lemon and ice to remember my mother-in-law Concetta. We would always have a little "toast" together Christmas Eve. I put a picture from one Christmas past on my fridge. This year it is one of Sonya and Natasha as little girls. As many Canadian traditions are included in my home- singing-christmas carols, christmas trees,  lights, stockings, Santas, reindeer, snowmen, hats, scarves, winter wonderland, church and the turkey dinner with the bread stuffing and all the trimmings! Especially cranberries from our aboriginal people's heritage!
Missing people in our lives can be honoured by all our little gestures that are significant to us but may be lost on others.
Christmas can be whatever you want it to be. Many make the effort to go to church. Or the focus is gathering at family homes!
Do you find yourself remembering? Reflecting? Thinking about others? Are you excited for the day to be here finally?

CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY DEPRESSION

Despite the fun, the food, the joy and the magical moments of Christmas and the holiday season, there are many people that face emotional turmoil this time of year. If it is the first Christmas without a loved one following a death, it can be a reminder the person is gone. If the family structure has changed such as married children have moved away or are spending the significant days with the other side of the family, there can be loneliness and exculsion. Fighting about whose house has what dinner- Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or Boxing Day- makes for a stressful time. Making new traditions help. As the family changes, change is expected in the formal events of the season. Financial restrictions can damper the demands of " what do you want for Christmas?" from loved ones. Adults understand it and will not expect much or anything from those undergoing monetary hardship. Little children and even teenagers have different expectations. Often those folks are invited to the meals to give a welcoming place to be. Gifts can be given to others without a need  to receive anything back as a positive Christian value. Miscellaneous toy and food drives are good ways. However, helping people we know can  be challenging as some people will just say " I don't need charity!"

Anyone with chronic depression or anxiety can be suffering severely. As others around them are able to cope with the increased tasks and social events, they can become more incapacitated. If you know someone, reach out and offer to help with the concrete things for them. Sickness and hospitalization this time of year stands out. Can you assist those families? Asking someone at the last minute to your dinner or taking a meal to them could be helpful! Checking in on the friend with depression often to fend off any critical situation is a good idea. What about your energy? Take a deep breath! When entertaining, slow down and enjoy the company. If someone asks to give a hand, let them. Share the load. No one helps me with my dishes, as I just keep putting another load in the dishwasher so we all can sit and enjoy!

Are you the one with depression? Make sure your loved ones can be of assistance to you! Take your medication! Talk to your doctor if needed! Take care of yourself! Rather than trying to do it all, step back and really chose what is most important to you and the significant people in your life! Watching a sappy Christmas movie while eating chocolate creates a memory! Walking around your neighbourhood looking at the lights gives some much needed exercise as well as a fun moment for all! Teaching little children about the Christmas story through play because play let's you stop to relax! Rushing here and there is not fun! For some families, the season brings driving everywhere. Perhaps, talk about a sleepover- cut down on the driving! Remember it is hard to be in a good mood all the time- so it is okay to take little breaks from each other. Those of you that are the strong ones and can handle it all- you will recognize those in need! How is your mood right now? Are you feeling joyous? Depressed? Stressed about the last minute tasks? Are you finished and can you help someone else? If you are having trouble coping, talk to a doctor or your health care professional. Above all, recognize the times you need a break to try to relax and enjoy all around you!

NANA SAYS CHRISTMAS NEEDS CHILDREN

No matter how many sophisticated lunches and time with friends, being around little children at Christmas helps to recapture some of the magical moments. The way we try to keep the Santa presence real for children. While reading the Nativity story for the first times to my grandchildren or letting them play with my small creche or doing some Christmas crafts or eating Christmas cookies are some of the activities that abound in the season for me. Little gifts are exchanged at all venues. My granddaughter received an item from her dance teacher and she was thrilled. As adults we must be aware that sometimes it is too much for all of us and find ways to do some quiet things- like an afternoon nap on their school break. Outdoor activities do tire children so even a brisk walk pulling the little ones in a sleigh works! Creating our own Christmas moments like Nana sitting with two of her grandchildren by their tree and having a photo taken- one of the Christmas present moments! Many families are expecting their "big children" home from university for the big event. Sometimes it has been months and Christmas is the opportunity to gather family together. With cars, boats, trains and planes those children are making their way home. I remember that feeling when Sonya was away at university- glad to have her home for the week! It is a blessing the girls and families live so close to Adolph and me. Are you glad to have your children- big and small with you? How do children help you enjoy the Christmas season? Are there special activities you do-creating your own family traditions? Grandparents- you have the opportunity to teach your grandchildren about your old traditions or are your grandchildren giving you ideas to make some new ones! Yes children do make Christmas special! It is really about that first baby- Jesus!

REMEMBERING A FRIEND

In lives, we lose people along the way that we love. Today marks the 10th anniversary of the death of our dear friend Larry. He died from injuries sustained in a farming accident. Just an ordinary guy who loved his wife and children. Worked hard and laughed well. Cared about his ladies-his herd of cattle! Each year as we enter the Winter Solstice, we always think of him. Are there people you remember often?

MY RED POINSETTIA

The red poinsettia is such a symbol of Christmas. There has to be at least one to make my home complete for the festive season. I love to go to events where there are rows of the beautiful flower, often in other colours too. Do you love it? How many do you have in your home?

OUR CHRISTMAS TREE

A house is not fully decorated for Christmas without the tree. We usually get our real tree about 10-14 days before Christmas. Decorated with lights and our favourite bulbs with an Angel with a light and Tasha's little toilet paper creation from Kindergarten, it sits in our Family Room to enjoy.

Christmas trees have their roots in many ancient traditions. From the Egyptians to the Romans and the Druids in Great Britain, everygreen trees were symbols of lasting through winters. Our more modern traditions come from Germany and Scandinavia. We are told Martin Luther put candles on his tree in honour of Christ's birth.

Those traditions were brought to North America when the various immigrant groups arrived. Of course the coniferous trees are prolific here making it easy to have Christmas trees. Now the tree industry is a staple. We can buy a tree from many sources. Our local malls or stores have sellers or go just a little north of the city to a Christmas tree farm, cutting your own tree. Of course you can get an artificial one that are prelit for your convenience.

I like to add these little artificial trees in various spots around the house. The grandchildren can touch and play with them.
The Christmas tree is a highlight in many town squares throughout the country. Even our local town has its own tree in front of the Centre for Performing Arts in Richmond Hill.

As the tree grows over the years, then the light display will become bigger. Actually the Spruce tree on our front lawn is huge now. A testament to Coniferous trees everywhere.
But tell me- do you put a star or an angel at the top? And why did you chose one over the other? Is there a religious reason for you? A family tradition? Or do you just like it?
O Christmas Tree!! Another wonderful song. For all those little children who think their Christmas tree is the best, make sure you make the effort to let them know- yes it is!!

A POSTCARD FROM OUR ARMED FORCES

Since 1991, I have been writing our members of our Armed Forces wherever they are serving in the world. After September 11th, only postcards- not closed letters or parcels were allowed to any Canadian Services members. Families, of course, could send their gifts to their loved ones.

I find the locations through the National Defense site. All mail goes to the Canadian address before it is shipped overseas. My letters printed on festive paper with the address of the location is folded in half and taped so they can be scrutinized.
Over the years the responses from some of the personnel are my treasures. Our family is always thanked and often a little personal information is shared. Knowing first hand what the mission entails is always very interesting.
From Bosnia to Timor to Afghanistan to Golan Heights to Sierra Leone to Haiti- to name a few- messages and greetings have been exchanged. Sometimes a picture is even sent. Lots of school children now send letters so their correspondence is usually answered.

Sometimes our family letter is answered because the person lived in Barrie or East York, feeling a connection to us. There is still time to send an email to our troops. Just go into the National Defense site and follow the links. If not raise a glass on Christmas Day, to honour them!
If you want a postcard featured here, email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address so you can send me a postcard.

MY CHRISTMAS BLANKET-CANADIAN STYLE

As many of you know, I love hand crafts. Crocheting is one of them. I made this Christmas blanket or afghan as some would call it a few years ago. It comes out for a month or so in the Christmas season to keep me warm or have a snuggle on the couch beside my Christmas Tree. The red, white and green are the season's colours. They also could be Italian or Mexican as they have those colours in their flags! So you could make a Christmas blanket but pull it out for Italian and Mexican visitors as well! This blanket used many small balls of scrap yarn. There was no pattern- just did each row with a stitich that suited the texture of the wool!  I find myself this year working on another afghan with the same theme in mind- to use up some scraps but this time in fall colours. A purple knitted scarf is also on the go. Sometimes I feel like crocheting and sometimes knitting. The handcrafting activity allows me to sit with busy hands and watch those sappy Christmas movies without the feeling I should be busier! It is very relaxing to sit and enjoy! Since the project has no deadline, there is a sense of contentment. Should Christmas be just about being busy? Can you find some activities in your day to find the peace and contentment of the season? If not come to my house, I'll teach you to knit or crochet or you can just enjoy my company as we have a good gab or watch one a movie or two!

CANADIAN CHRISTMAS MUSIC

Is borrowed from many different sources. Many of the early British settlers brought the songs of the Protestant church to North America.
I love Christmas Carols. My favourite is Oh Come All Ye Faithful- Joyful and truimphant....
When I studied Latin in High School, even learnt that version- Adeste fidetes, laete triumphantes.
The story of Christmas is played out in song. Angels We Have Heard on High tells of the angels. The First Noel brings us the Shepherds and the Wise Men going to Bethlehem to see the Baby Jesus. Some songs just bring out the Joy- like Joy to the World. For me, hearing a choir with wonderful voices is such an important part of the season.
Now holiday concerts at schools and day cares must be neutral so Jingle Bells and Santa songs are okay. Rarely do the little children sing Christmas Carols. I do remember my children when in the younger grades could sing carols- Away in a Manager was popular song for them. In Kindergarten, my little Sonya belted out this song drowning out all the other children in the class!!
From the Middle Ages in England, Good King Wenceslas is a strong song telling of the generosity of the rich to the poor. Almost letting us know how the tradition of reaching out to others at this time of the year started.
Thinking of Canadian songs- there was a popular one- Granma got run over by a Reindeer- rather sick humourous if you like it. There are some French, Aboringinal and Inuit songs to sing. Some are adaptions from other songs. Like Twas on the Eve of Winter time when all the birds had fled, is a wonderful example of making it Canadian and suiting one of the original cultures here in Canada.
Christmas through song is a way of connecting with the traditions and cultures from around the world. Showing there is a Christian spirit that has prevailed worldwide. Reaching out to others in every community to celebrate the joy of the season. Inviting non-Christians to participate, like the Secret Santas at work that include everyone. So let's sing! I think I will put on some of my CDs and sing along.
What are your favourite songs? Do you enjoy the music of the season? Do you prefer the traditional songs or the new songs that are non-religious?

ARE YOU READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS?

I made the mistake at an all day meeting yesterday to say I am so ready for Christmas. One of the managers at the table prepared to tell how busy she is, going home at 7 or 8 every night trying to fit things in and could not possibly be all ready. She looked at me, rather implying if I am ready then perhaps I am just not as busy as she is. Hum! Time- we all have the same 24 hours in  a day. Christmas comes on the 25th every year. We can check the calendar January 1 and know when it will occur again. I realized again- organized, prepared people often are resented! I start to think about any event days, months in advance. I buy little Christmas presents throughout the year and really start to watch the sales come September. Then closer to Christmas I watch for those daily specials that are in flyers or come straight to the home computer through emails. I have even done some online shopping this year as well as going to the Mall! Christmas cards are done 5 at a time- starting with the International ones, then the USA then Canada. This year I did not put all my Christmas decorations in the house so took 4 hours instead of 8 to decorate. Two weeks before Christmas put up the Christmas tree and of course, wrap presents as I go. A little at a time and using my time effectively! This Saturday I will be helping the girls by babysitting my grandchildren to free them to do some errands, shopping etc. I leave time to do the things I really enjoy! Spending time with the little ones and doing a Christmas activity or two will be fun. If they become too rowdy- with the 3 of them then it will be movie time! After they go home, I can reward myself with sitting by my Christmas tree doing my favourite activities. I am surprised that with my low mood and worrying about my folks I have pulled off another organized and fun time for Adolph and me and our family. Is it easy to be on schedule? Not really! Do I push myself to get things done often? Yes! Do I like being resented? Not really! Do I really care? Sometimes! So the next time someone has pulled off an organized and well planned event in your life show some appreciation! That person made the effort to give the family around him or her a good time!  a festive table with good food takes thought, time, effort and love! If you are struggling this Christmas, remember less is more. Are there activities you can cut back and do the things that have the most meaning? If you do not get everything done, do not be too hard on yourself! There are other days and occasions in the year to show your stuff!

NANA SAYS A CHILD'S BEHAVIOUR IS NOT CULTURALLY DIVERSE

Although we talk and support cultural diversity in our society, it is very interesting to observe children. While shopping last week there was a little boy about 4, speaking in Farsi with his parents. He was whining and loud. It did not take an interpreter to understand his behaviour and language. He was bored, did not want to be shopping and was misbehaving. Just like most other 4 year olds! Whining is understood in any language. A child's dislike of shopping is universal! We may think we have such differences as adults, but children have similar behaviours and reactions to life from all backgrounds. Think of that little baby of 6 months who smiles at a smiling face. Does not discriminate! Learning to play with other children in a Day Care Centre where acceptable behaviour is reassured, not  cultural diversity. Gender differences are not supported! Little girls and little boys are encouraged to have positive interactions with each other! Teaching any 3 year old not to fight with another can lead to learning to cooperate and getting along with others. "It's mine!" can carry over into adulthood if children are allowed to be too self-centred. Even some countries whine- "it's mine and start wars!" The behaviours of all children from all backgrounds, I believe is universal. It is how we raise our children. The respect we encourage. For me, as a Canadian- manners, manners, manners. Please, thank you, excuse me! These are words that are taught from a young age! Most importantly, I must set an example and demonstrate the behaviour. No longer can we say as adults- do as I say, not as I do!
Tell me what do you see when you are around other people. Do you observe that children are children regardless of background? What do you think?

CELEBRATING A CANADIAN CHRISTMAS-MY FAVOURITE THINGS

Since I was a little girl there are so many things about Christmas that I love. Our Santa Claus lives in the North Pole which is still Canadian jurisdiction. So he is very Canadian. The pictures with Santa have improved over the years. Now the Canadian Postal Service-Canada Post-helps with the mail as the number of children writing to him has grown. Churches throughout the country host Christmas concerts and encourage their congregations to donate to local charities as well as the missions they support throughout the world. Most workplaces must have Holiday parties to respect the diverse population. Although they are really Christmas parties and lunches. Local Toy drives are in full force to make sure every child who wants a toy at Christmas gets one. The fact is they do not have to be Christian- any child regardless of faith, culture and creed can get a toy. Families again that can benefit from a food hamper are able to receive if in need! That is the spirit of Christmas- including others! Christians giving to others!
Reading the story of the Christ child to my grandchildren is a new tradition.
The season makes me stop and think of those near and far- the Christmas newsletter, writing to our Canadian troops, making a list of phone calls to family, sending parcels on time, sending those Christmas cards- time to connect and reconnect with everyone. This year I purged some photo albums and sent pictures to nieces and nephews of relevant pictures of them. Did I really need 40 photo albums?
I love Christmas tree lights. Especially the ones that flash! When I sit by the tree in my Family room, I feel very much at peace. My living room is my Santa room. I have Santas I have collected over the years. Because the grandchildren are little, the little breakable things are still in the cupboard. Since I want them to enjoy the house, the items that are placed throughout the room can be touched, held and good for play.

The true joy comes with the fact that there is another Christmas to enjoy. To have family to love and friends- well what more can be the blessing of the season. What are your favourite things of the Christmas season? Are you missing people? Do you need to reconnect? Take a look around you- are there people you can include in your celebrations? Tell me about your favourite things.

MONDAY BLUES

This time of year is so busy that the weekend does not seem long enough. There is shopping, parties, family get -togethers, wrapping of presents and finishing touches of decorating the house or the tree. Going to work can be difficult as there really was no rest. Then there is whatever work pressure your job entails! Take a deep breath and remember Rome was not built in a day! The season can be joyous without being so stressful. Choose your battles! Don't try to do everything! Actually work may be more relaxing since your focus is on work and not all the other tasks you are facing! Thirteen days until Christmas- really figure out what needs to be done and do it- one thing at a time! As for Monday, it is really only one day in the week and it will soon be time to return home! Are you feeling the pressure of the season? What do you use to calm your energy? Are there people in your life that can help with the chores? If there are do you let them help you?

A POSTCARD FROM NASSAU BAHAMAS

The Bahamas is one of those southern destinations that is very poplular with people from the GTA. Accessible and affordable.

Adolph and I had the opportunity to visit Bahamas on two occasions. In 1982, we went to Freeport, Bahamas and again in 1988 as one of our cruise ship stops to Nassau. Lots of good shopping, dependable weather although not as hot as other southern destinations. Great to relax!

In 1975, a friend visited Nassau and sent a postcard. " Hi! Guess who's in Nassau. I'm having a great time. The island & people are beautiful The guys are friendly & plenty! I'm here for 8 days. The weather is fantastic. 85 degrees & sunny & hot. See you. Les."
My sister, Marilee visited Nassau in Feb.,1988. She wrote. " Dear Barbie & Adolph: Have seen the cruise ships in harbour- they look fantastic. I love this place-everyone is so nice. Ran into a "revival" meeting in straw market- have lots of funny stories to tell. Every day is an adventure. Our suite has mirrors everywhere-that's an adventure too! Love, Mare, Mike & boys"

If you want a postcard featured here, email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address so you can send me a postcard.

THE CHALLENGE OF WRITING A BLOG

This is blog 501. It has been an adventure to find ideas and themes to keep writing. The advice of other bloggers is to write every day. It is such good advice as it creates a discipline of blogging. Wednesday is easy- now it is my Nana says theme. Sunday too- with a Postcard From! The other 5 days bring many challenges and sometimes a photo I took weeks ago with a blog idea in mind which can finally be used. Since I can follow how many pageviews occur on each blog and who in the world is reading me, I am constantly amazed at the the blogs with the most "reads". People in the world are interested in the down to earth Canadian themes I have written. Yes, not regularly but I have had readers from every continent. There are regular readers not only from Canada and the United States but Germany and Russia. So to those readers thank you for visiting. Writing advice from years ago states to write about what you know. Trying to be an expert on everything, well it does not work. Some of my clinical blogs have responses on my private email. Some people have complained they can not comment so email me your comments or find me on facebook and comment there. I will add your comments to the blogs. As most of you know, I love Narrative Therapy which using your story to help to reflect and honour your strengths. Thus I want to hear and know and think about your reactions and real thoughts to any blog. Do they conjure up ideas and thinking?
As a clinical Social Worker, I always want to reach others who may be struggling with a problem and need some guidance to find the right person or resouces to help. Even the right book! Like my favourite- A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis on his journey with his grief after his beloved wife died.
I love blogging as it helps me to consolidate many areas and interests in my life. I hope you have enjoyed reading and sharing with me. Are there any favourite blogs you have enjoyed? Tell me. Are there themes you would like me to consider for you and your group? What do you want to know about Canada and this Canadian? Are there parenting or family issues you are seeking guidance? Crafts, gardening, photography can be used to work with problem areas in your life-they work for me! So please keep on reading and helping me to challenge myself to write!

MISUNDERSTANDINGS

Have you ever been in a situation where there has been a misunderstanding and you took the brunt of the person' s wrath? In life, it is possible to be at the wrong place at the wrong time. It happened to me. It feels very uncomfortable but liveable. In the workplace, there are so many different personalities it is impossible that there will not be times when others dump their feelings on team members. Working in close quarters invite comarderie but also invite conflict. Today is another day and I will do my best to stay out of everyone's way! Have you experienced some conflict lately? How have you handled it?
By the way it is my 500th blog! I hope to keep on going strong!

NANA SAYS TEACHING CHILDREN SOCIAL AWARENESS IS GOOD

In this festive season, there are several toy drives around the GTA as I am sure there are in all the major cities in Canada for children to have a toy at Christmas. What I love seeing on the newscasts is parents bringing their fortunate children to donate a toy to others. Here at the hospital where I work, there are often donations and fund raisers from schools in the area. Teaching children to be aware of others in their community by lending a helping hand raising social consciousness is a good thing!

USING NATURE TO MAKE CHRISTMAS FESTIVE

In the "olden days", people used natural products for the festive season. Now we head off to the craft store and buy our synthetic products or just buy ready made items. It is easy though to look around and use some items from nature.

Grape vines made into a wreath add texture.

Pinecones of course make the season cheery. Sometimes a bunch in a decorative bowl with a ribbon on top. A corsage! A wreath! Use in some garland! Christmas tree boughs bring a fragrance to the home.
Using new with the old blends the traditions of many generations.

How is your Christmas decorating going? Are you already sipping some eggnog by your tree?

WRITING A LIMERICK

The limerick has a five line rhythm. First two lines and fifth rhyme. While the 3rd and 4th rhyme.

Aging
At each turning in life a stage,
It's hard for everyone to age.
A smile with a crinkle
Becomes a wrinkle.
Showing our wisdom as a sage!

I think limericks can be fun. Tests our ability to rhyme words. They are fun at weddings, parties and special speeches. They do not have to be serious. Whimsical! Why don't you try one?

DARKEST BEFORE THE DAWN

We all have dark times in our lives when we feel we can not go on. Like the rotation of the earth the light will come again. Keep going! Not giving up! Hoping for a better tomorrow! These are small sayings that often help us through these depressing times. In this festive season, they may be people around you that need some light. Or do you need some light? It can be a time when we are missing people in our lives. Those who live far away and even those who have died! The dawn will come! Are you missing people? Are you going through a tough time? Reach out to those in your life either to get comfort or to give it!

A POSTCARD FROM PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

Prince Edward Island is one of the most beautiful islands in the world. As one of the original provinces of the Dominion of Canada, it was home to the Charlottetown Conference, 1864 where the Fathers of Confederation discussed the creation of a new country that occurred in 1867. It can be reached by plane or from New Brunswick by the Confederation Bridge.
The famous novel- Anne of Green Gables written by Lucy Maud Montgomery has its backdrop in PEI. The house featured in the postcard is supposed to be her home.

My brother Reed sent me a postcard in 1964 when he was working there.
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island- 2 X 1964- " Hi Barb: Glad to here you received the stamps. Thought if you had ever read the book Anne of Green Gables, you would recognize the picture. At the moment I am in Charlottetown, P.E.I. getting the place ready for the Queen. See you soonly. Reed C.N.T. " He addressed it to me in Ontario with ( Upper Canada) in brackets actually being historically correct. PEI of course was part of Lower Canada.
I do not remember the Queen visiting in 1964. She probably did. I do know that Prince William and Kate absolutely loved it on their visit last summer-2011. The food is great too. Not only are PEI potatoes eaten across Canada but the seafood is famous too. Any visitor loves the mussels that are readily available. The beaches are right on the ocean. Of course, the people are very friendly! Have you visited PEI? It is on my bucket list to see this wonderful island.
If you want a postcard featured here, email at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address so you can send me a postcard.

A LITTLE COUNTRY IN THE CITY

On a recent jaunt to downtown Toronto, I discovered these sculptured cows in a little parkette. To be surrounded by tall buildings and the hustle of city business, they were an interesting contrast. Do they belong or are they out of place? What do you think?

ARE YOU A SQUARE?

Or a nerd? Do you get seen as ultra-conservative? Do you follow the rules? Obey the traffic signs? Pay your taxes on time? Try not to judge others! Do you even care what others call you? If you are the party animal or the one that can hold your liquor or liking to push the envelope- are you really so much farther ahead! Can you be square and still take chances in life. Like self-employment! Work out and have a dynamo figure! Go on an occasional exotic southern vacation! Squares turned on their head make interesting triangles with 4 points! Or a bunch of squares together make interesting objects! City streets! Wrapped Christmas presents! Suburban houses! My home is a square with its own unique qualities! To be a square or not to be! Or would you see yourself as some other interesting shape.? Personally, I like octagons- 8 sides! What does that say about me?

DECEMBER- THE LAST MONTH OF THE YEAR

Despite being 24 days to Christmas, December is always the reminder that another year is starting to come to an end. During the busy festive season, it can be a time of reflection about your life and the individuals in it. Reaching out to people through Christmas Cards, emails, tweets, facebook, phone calls and personal visits is a way to determine what others mean to us. Imagine if we did not have to try to contact them, would we? I know there are many folks who only send a Merry Christmas email now. I have been told lately who mails anything- well I do! The handwritten message or typed newsletter is a small way to update. Actually I like to hear from friends and relatives what is happening in their lives. When people are spread out through Canada, United States and Italy, everyone Adolph and I know are never in the same room at the same time. At our girls' weddings, we did have a good collection of people though at the same events! For me I miss the connection with people I love. How about you? Are there people you wish were closer?