2012 OUT WITH THE OLD

As 2012 winds down and New Years' parties are well under way, one seems to reflect on the year. Trials and tribulations; joyful moments; travels; and family times seem to come to mind. There is always a hope that the new year will bring good times. Like the saying out with the old to make room for the new carries the mood. What are you hoping to discard as the year closes? Any thoughts?

CANADIAN SNOW IN DECEMBER

Canada has its share of snow coast to coast. Ontario was lucky to miss those horrific snowstorms in November. A light dusting prior to Christmas then a snowstorm that left several inches but hit the east coast with a vengence! Embracing the winter by walking to work and playing with my little grandchildren in the snow helps me to accept that winter takes a good four months of our lives. A backyard ice rink will help the sweeties to work on their skating skills! How do you embrace winter? Skiing! Indoor activities? Or do you just look forward to Spring?

DON'T LOOK TOO FAR DOWN THE ROAD

Planning is good. But when faced with critical illness, one of the statements I use with patients is- don't look too far down the road. Often the question can be- how long do I have? Suggestions- put your affairs in order, follow the treatment plan, do the things you want to do! Actually for all of us to live each day to its fullest! Take care of the little things and the big things take care of themselves! Pushing ourselves to get things done! Some procrastination can be okay but letting too many areas of our lives lag can often bring anxiety! Daily simple goals- pay the bill, clean the closet, fold the laundry, hug our loved ones, finish that book- can keep us going! Of course, our routines help all of us to stay focussed and think about everything that must be done! So are you looking too far down the road! Do you need to stop and enjoy today?

2012 MY FAVOURITE IMAGES

As the year is winding to a close, it is a reminder of the ups and downs it brought. I took many photographs of many events and adventures. Some of my favourite images helped to reflect on the year.

Spring at the local library.

Some flowers in my garden-love purple!

A view of Kingston Ontario from Fort Henry! A hot, hot summer day!

The Gooderham Building on Front Street from our trip to the St. Lawrence Market. A reminder  of walking through the market and enjoying the street scene.

A pile of cherries at the St. Jacobs Market- oh for the summer fruit to return! And perhaps another trip to that amazing market! Might become an annual event!

Finding those Fall country images close to home- the Vaughan-King road.

A winter rose- a look toward the New Year and Spring!

Where would your photos take you? Do you have favourites from the year? Of course, some of my very favourite are my grandchildren. There would not be enough room here to print them all!!

DIFFERENT LIGHT DIFFERENT VIEWS

Lights can bring a new look to any place. Christmas lights outside give a house a festive feel. Candlelight on a table can be romantic as well as make older people look younger. "I am the Light" comes from the Bible.
Lighting in a home can help with mood. Natural light from spacious windows brings in sunshine and allows for artificial lights to be minimal. The amount of light can cause seasonal mood disorders. Just think about the rate of depression in February! Photographers have fun with light!  Many interesting pictues can be found in simple places.

For example, sitting on my couch and seeing a moment when the late day sun found its way through the sliding doors making shadows on the fireplace! Songs about light- You light up my Life by Debby Boone- hung around for some time. It is darkest before the dawn- light will bring new possibilities. Or when parents yell at their kids- turn off your light and go to sleep! Since it is December 28, the days are starting to get longer again! So more Light! What does the word light conjure for you? Do you look to the light for inspiration? Do you want your load lightened?

THAT LULL BETWEEN CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR

As the house slowly returns to a different normal, there is a certain quiet that begins to prevail. The lists are gone; the good dishes back in the cupboard; the wrapping paper and tags stored neatly until needed; and the Christmas presents are finding a home. There is always a sense of letdown! It is over! Christmas came with a bang and left with lots of calories, giggles and photos. Time to regroup and work on those winter projects. Over the years I have learnt to use this feeling to reflect, review and reward all that is important in my life! At the end it is the time spent with family that brings the greatest meaning to me. The reconnecting with them as well as friends through cards, phone calls and facebook notes makes it special. Heading back to work today after a small winter storm- not too much damage was done, just some shovelling- puts my life back in perspective! Work and home! Home and work! Not too shabby! Knowing the energy, skill and knowledge take me to new adventures keeps me moving forward! What do you find to be most meaningful in your life? Do you use this time to reflect? Or are you one of many running to those sales? Taking some quiet time to listen to your inner voice can bring some interesting results! Are you listening?

NANA SAYS SPENDING TIME WITH CHILDREN AT CHRISTMAS MAKES IT SPECIAL

Yes Christmas with all the preparation and hype can be stressful with little children. However, no Christmas day is the same without them around. After the days before Christmas with the excited expecation of Santa bringing something special, dreams have been fulfilled! They bring back the magic of the season! Adults are allowed to sit on the floor and act like little children for a while! Assembling or playing with the new gadgets is such an important part of the day too! Saying an appropriate grace at the dinner table as a reminder of the religious aspect of the day to help little ones learn about the true meaning of the celebration! There is something to be said about Boxing Day! Quiet is good too! Hope you enjoyed your day with little people at this very special time of the year!

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS PRESENT?

Each year something special makes it way under my Christmas tree. This year it was the framed picture with my four grandchildren. Their Day Care took an amazing picture of the the four of them- everyone looking at the camera, no silly faces, no eyes shut! Love it! It made me think about other Christmases! The one that came to mind was the year I was 19! Adolph had bought a fuzzy orange pair of slippers. He wanted me to try them on. When I put my foot in one of the them, there was a little box. It was an engagement ring! Of course, my parents were a little dismayed for their youngest daughter to be engaged! Books, clothes and other sudnry tiems over the years brought joy! Well, do you have a special Christmas present worth mentioning or do you enjoy everything you receive?

BOXING DAY IN CANADA

There are lineups at stores to get the great bargains on Boxing Day- December 26! A time to start the Shopping for next Christmas. It is actually a British tradition of giving gifts in boxes. Now it is equated with bargains! Many people who received  money or gift cards as Christmas presents are madly trying to find the ultimate item!

Of course it does not have to come in a box- a bag will do! Did you do any Boxing Day shopping? Or did you use the stat holiday to lie low, read a book or have a quiet nap away from all the crowds?

CHRISTMAS EVE- ARE LINE UPS IN THE MALLS THE TRUE MEANING

Christmas Eve can be a stressful, mad rush of a day for many people here in Canada. Buying everything at the last minute and wrapping gifts all night. By starting the process very early in the Fall, the day can be a joyful reflection of the meaning of why we celebrate in the first place. Writing a last minute email, calling a friend or relative to wish a Merry Christmas, perhaps picking up some fresh bread or buns, last minute tidy up for welcoming guests but being home and taking time to stop and smell the poinsettas is my idea of savouring all that is Christmas! Good Catholics attend midnight mass! Protestants went to church yesterday or some will have special services on Christmas day at their places of worship. Reading the Christmas story to grandchildren brings back memories of discovering Christmas. Shopping until you drop or being home with loved ones enjoying the moment- you chose! Merry Christmas! Joyeux Noel! Buon Natale! Feliz Navidad!

A POSTCARD FROM BETHLEHEM

Bethlehem- the holy city! Renown for the birth of the Christ Child. Christians visit this place on any trip to Israel.

Beautifully located near open areas, Bethlehem is a beacon for all Christians.

The star of Bethlehem, the Shepherds' field and the Church of the Nativity are on any pilgrimage to the Holy Land. As we celebrate the Christmas season, a reminder of the true meaning can be found there.

CHRISTMAS HELPS US MISS AND REMEMBER THOSE WE LOVE

The first Christmas without a loved one is different. This is the first Christmas both my son-in-law and I do not have our Moms. Even though I did not spend Chrismas with my Mom the last few years as she would not travel much after the age of 80, there is still the reminder she is not here. The special gift or flower arrangement or card are not on my list anymore. Even when marriages happen and children must go to more than one function, sorting out whose house and what day, what time they will spend with which family can be complicated or not. Family moves away and the distance is felt at Christmas. All the texting, emails and phone calls does not make up for the person not being in the room or at the dinner table. Having some reminders of the person can help. My Mom was a "depression" Mom. She lived through the Great Depression and did not receive much at Christmas time so she tried to make Christmas special for us. Our stocking always had a large delicious apple in it along with other treats. So each Christmas I must have some delicious apples in a basket on the table. Red carnations remind my husband of his Mom. So traditions can include little things that have meaning to the people present without being morbid! All the letters, cards and emails received can be displayed in a prominent place. Remembering people we love is a good way to honour family and life! Do you do something meaningful for the lost ones in your life? Do you have little traditions unique to you?

CHRISTMAS IS IN THE AIR

Trudging to work yesterday with yet another bag with a Christmas gift, it is apparent that the mood has become festive. Workmates sneaking gifts to each other. Christmas cards exchanged between  hospital programs lighten the mood. Families returning to the hospital with gifts, chocolates and cards thanking staff for their wonderful care of their loved ones. Our doctors giving special gift baskets or trays of food to the team for their support during the year. Christmas is an opportunity to stop and remember people. Like Marjorie in Portland Oregon! Adolph and I met her on the beach in Waikiki on our honeymoon in 1971. We have exchanged Christmas cards, sent postcards and sometimes small gifts like the baby blanket she made for Natasha from colourful Hawaiian material over the years. We did not receive a card from her last year. Do I send one this year? Well I did with my chatty newsletter. Waiting in my email box was a message from her son! Expecting the worst, well actually not. Marjorie will be 97 next April. Her son helps with her Christmas cards. Marjorie had thrown out the envelope with the card and for some reason crossed out our address in her address book. She can get mixed up about things! He updated us and we sent our address to him. It makes Christmas happy and fun to have such events! Marjorie is still in the same house since 1955!! Then there are the moments of driving at night to some functions and looking at the beautiful Christmas lights on houses. The small Christmas moments such as delivering presents to the grandchildren and putting them under their trees. The enthusiasm of looking to see which present is for which person! The drive home with all the last minute frantic drivers trying to rush to stores for those gifts is also part of the Christmas moment. Can you tell I love Christmas! I am a Christmas groupie! Seeing smiles on people's faces brings joy! Like our dinner party last Saturday with good and beloved friends! An opportunity again to make an event special! There is more to come but the magic of Christmas is starting to happen! Can you feel it?

NANA SAYS THE DEATH OF A CHILD IS THE WORST GRIEF

With the events from the United States-Sandy Hook Elementary School- it brings home how tragic and unbearable it is when a child dies. It was not just the little children but even the adults were someone's children. The killer's father is grieving too. It is said a parent should not have to bury a child. It made me think of the war zones where little children die too and how devastating it is for those parents. Does a parent get over the death? Maybe! Copes, moves on but putting the little one  to rest is a life long process. I had a work mate who lost a child in the Air India crash. He knew families that made their children's rooms into shrines! Then what becomes normal grief and what becomes pathological grief carry fine lines between them. All the counselling in the world may not take away the pain, just give strategies for living! When an event affects a community there is common bonding between people. However, each situation is unique to that family. How to help siblings deal with the loss again is unique to each family! It is difficult not to have a "ghost" remain in the family, always expecting the other children to remember but do they have to carry the same burden as the parent. Loving the living may become stressful for a parent but necessary. The movie Ordinary People carried that theme. The mother could not love her living son as she could not let go of her loss. The living child should not be made to feel less loved and it can happen very honestly. Grief is so overwhelming and painful that good people can become consumed with it. It takes the time it needs to take. There are organizations that help families grieve. Offering groups for siblings that use art, music, story telling are some of the strategies that help children process. Schools with grief counsellors and projects are ways to process events. Hugging our children too tightly is not the way to let them live. Parents always worry about their little ones and big ones too- it is natural. Finding ways for living and yet remembering take patience and creativity. Letting the feelings flow naturally. Every child's loss is huge for families. It does not take a major event for a death to occur. If you know someone who has lost a child, reach out, listen to the story! To all who have lost a child, take heart that life can go on but there will be a piece missing! Find ways to honour your loss without letting it destroy your life! Accept the love of those around you!

CHRISTMAS WREATHS EVERYWHERE

Nothing says Christmas like a wreath. They come in all shapes and sizes. Most homes will have one somewhere- often on a front door. Using local pine cones and pretty bought corsages, and a metal ring, this one has served several years. Perhaps needing some new pinecones to fill the empty spots. Remember my story from last year, the squirrel had been helping himself to some!

Using a variety of items from Christmas past, new wreaths can be created. Using a foam circle and pinning the fake apples on it to give some colour and putting it on a door leading from one room to the next, it fills an empty spot. The items were used at one time on garland on the staircase.

Balconies are welcome places for any wreath.

Hanging over our heads, helping to make the house festive brings Christmas to the hallway.

 Of course, a new addition from last year, the purple wreath over the grill of the fireplace to compliment the purple theme in the Family Room.

Working on a new wreath, using just gold and red bulbs with some recycled ribbon and old red tree decorations will need its own spot in the house. Wreaths are so pretty. Do you have some in your home? Did you make them? Or do you just buy the ready made store ones? They are a way to use decorations that don't make it to your Christmas tree anymore!

AN INTERFAITH SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE

I always liked ecumenical services. As a child, Good Friday was shared by the different church groups in Thornhill and I attended many.  When my children were in Brownies and Guides, there was a service on Thinking Day in February each year with all the faith groups in Thornhill participating. So watching the service on TV in Newtown Connecticut, Sunday December 16, 2012, it was fitting that all faiths in the community came together to honour and mourn the losses. In times of great tragedy the love of a greater being- God does bring comfort. The politicians take the same seat as the community. Together was the message. When we reach out together, we can get through many things. Families together, community together supporting each other. As we continue to enjoy the Christmas season, let us come together and be there for each other- especially our children!

A POSTCARD FROM SANTA'S WORKSHOP

Bracebridge, Ontario has a year round Santa's Workshop. It helped the town survive when a new highway diverted traffic from the town.

Santa gets some help from the local White Tailed Deer. Real Reindeer live further north. Of course, Santa must return to the North Pole after his summer vacation in Bracebridge, Ontario. No postcard from the North Pole so this one has to do!

GIVE A HUG TO CONNECTICUT

There are no words to describe the terrible tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School- Friday December 14, 2012. Like President Obama said- Our hearts are broken! To all in that community, we send our love and prayers!

A CHRISTMAS BLANKET

Christmas time allows us to bring out all our festive things. Christmas colours-red, green and white- add to any room. My crocheted Christmas blanket hides the blue of the couch and even is good a coverup for an afternoon nap. It was fun to make allowing a different crochet stitch on each row. Different shades of green show the variety. Mexico and Italy have similar colours in their flags so if needed can be used for their occasions!!!! I just like it as it gives a change to the room and is practical at the same time! Perhaps it is time to start another one while I sit by the Christmas tree. What do you think?

HOW TO MAINTAIN PRIVACY IN A MODERN WORLD!

With all the social media, allowing credit card companies to know our financial business and sharing our lives, it is difficult to maintain real privacy. Some people allow their lives to be open books to everyone while others only try to share only with certain friends and family. Trusting that your confidence will not be broken is very important. Loose lips sink ships is my motto! If I do not share what someone has told me with anyone, then I can not be part of a gossip circle. If asked a question, simple answer- don't know! There is power with knowledge! Don't you love it when new information comes out- " I knew that all along" will come from those in your life who like to know everything about everyone. Well who cares! Eventually, new news becomes old news. As a social worker, confidentialiy is paramount. So work colleagues and friends will share concerns and information in a safe way! So are you a trusted friend? Do you like to maintain your own privacy about certain aspects of your life? Do you like to be an open book for all to see? Privacy, private thoughts and confidentiality are interesting concepts in this modern world!

NANA SAYS HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN STRIKE ACTION TO YOUR CHILD?

As the teachers' rotating one day strike arrives in York Region- the area above Toronto- Thursday Day 13, the dilemma is explaining to a child that the teachers will not be working. Little children may only see the teachers are angry with them. Parents who have been scrambling to find day care or needing to take a cherished vacation day to stay home to be with their children can not help but be annoyed. Children feel the annoyance and want to love Mommy and Daddy and like their teacher. There is really little sympathy for the strike from the community of parents! Will teachers with their own children need to take them on the picket line? Strike action of any kind always leaves bad feelings for time to come. Having lived through TTC strikes in Toronto, especially the summer of 1974- 3 weeks- ridership was down. The working to rule has stopped many needed activities at the schools. High School students needing sports' activities to be scouted by college and universities may miss out on much needed scholarships. So what to tell our children! How to keep the conversation fair is not easy! Parents have a tough job in explaining! Honestly, I do not have any answers. Grandparents throughout the region are available tomorrow to help their working children!

A SIMPLE CHRISTMAS CENTERPIECE

With all the wonderful ideas for Christmas decor, simple can be just as pretty. Always conscious of safety and wanting to use candles at an upcoming dinner party, this simple centerpiece was created. Using my resources at hand, I think it turned out rather well! What do you think? Have you created projects for the festive season? Recycling old Christmas decorations, ribbons and other odds n ends can make your home cozy and warm!

JUST TWO WEEKS TO GO TO CHRISTMAS

The panic is in the air. If shopping is not started, people are worried how will it be done. Houses decorated, lights up, presents needing wrapping and social functions in full swing make the season busy. Slow down and write a list, prioritize and use modern methods. Gift wrapping for example can be done at the store or at a mall booth where for a nominal fee someone else does it for you. Gift bags and tissue or just decorative gift boxes make it easy and inexpensive. Buy the significant items for the holiday meals- once the turkey, ham or roast is bought- the rest of the meal falls into place. Homemade baking is good but remember there are many bake shops and sections of the supermarkets just waiting for your businsess. Many families share the load with everyone bringing a dish to holiday meals. Who invented gift baskets? They are a treat and a great help to last minute shoppers. A beautiful flower arrangement is a welcome addition to anyone's home. If Christmas is about family, slow down to enjoy the family. Slow down and enjoy your friends and work colleagues. So take your finger off the panic button! It's okay all will be done!

And the mess will be put away in time!

A POSTCARD FROM JAPAN

Another earthquake in Japan made me think of the people there. So I hunted to determine if I had any postcards from there

The postcard was sent to my parents from their friends Mike and Arleen Furgala.
"Oct 29/81- Hi Dear "Parks", There we go "low-flying" to Kyoto & Nara. Japan is beautiful colours and people but oh, so busy. Enjoying the adventure of "Interline tour". Keep well, Love, Mike and Arleen" The postcard features the Bullet Trains at Tokyo Central Railroad.
Mike was a captain with Air Canada like Dad. He and his wife Arleen were dear friends of the family. They travelled more than my folks. Arleen, unlike Mom, liked to fly!
If you want a postcard featured here, email me at abdm@rogers.com so I can send you my address so you can send me a postcard.

LET THE CHRISTMAS PARTIES BEGIN

December is in full swing with the last minute preparations for the festivities. Work dinner/dance tonight and a work pot luck next week are some of the fun things for me and my group of acquaintances. It is fun to belong to social situations. The year I was laid off, it was difficult not to be part of such events. So look around you, are there people that could be added to your functions. Someone who could benefit from a social gathering. If you have a Christmas open house, could you add one more person? Even though many people complain there is too much to do and too many events, there is an undercurrent of real enjoyment and belonging when invited. If taken away, there is an emptiness. Adding people to events, does fill up the room and give some real social time to those people. Quieter family Christmas Eve and Christmas dinners may be your choice too. After the buzz of the season it is comforting to look forward to some quality family time with smaller gatherings. There are so many plays and concerts too that can bring a lonely person to a social gathering. Buy a ticket for one and go join in the fun. Of course, the church doors are open everywhere. We all know that the great bakers will bring their goods to Church socials, dinners and pot lucks. Parties and fun, joining others in celebration are some of the Christian values of reaching out to others! Worship with others could not be more Christian and the real meaning of the season!

NANA SAYS CHILDREN KEEP US YOUNG AT CHRISTMAS

As we age the magic of Christmas fades and becomes a series of tasks to be done. Then little children come along and remind us of the magic. Visiting the Christmas story of Jesus in the manger and providing a creche to act out the story helps with the process. Decorating with items that can be touched and enjoyed give children and grandparents a chance to share some moments together. While babysitting two of my grandsons after work, we were turning on the musical ornaments, playing with the Hallmark snowman items, and building a huge tower with some decorative Christmas boxes while waiting for "Mommy" to pick them up. Letting little children direct their play can be fun. Having some Christmas hats to wear rounded out the play. In the "hustle and bustle" of the season, find moments just to slow down and enjoy the little children in your life. Watching my grandsons running around with the hats- bought at the Dollar store- well for a dollar was enjoyable. Since parents are busy with work, shopping and creating those Santa moments, grandparents can create some good memories for their family members. A reminder that many Christmas decorations that can be broken are left in boxes in the closet to be put out when the grandchildren are older. I love my home to be fun so I have the items that can be touched out on tables. The next visit may include some spontaneous craft moments with the older granddaughter when she comes. There is so much pressure for parents this time of year with the constant reminders for children to be good - Santa is watching! So children and grandparents together can be the relief needed. Besides as grandparents, aren't we all just little children at heart anyway!!

SANTA IS EVERYWHERE!

Santa is very busy this time of year. With parades and pictures with young children along with answering all those letters, no wonder he turns to food to keep sane. Are you a Santa helper? Are you the one in your family that keeps on giving? Do you make sure your loved ones have a good Christmas? Do you take joy in the wonders of the season? Or are you Scrooge with the bah humbug? Watch out because your family Santa is watching and might just bring some cheer into your life! Oh Christmas! The season! Like the real Santa with the big belly, have a chocolate or two to keep going! 

RESILIENCE-CAN YOU BOUNCE BACK?

Life has its twists and turns; its ups and downs; its good time and bad times- the list could go on! Resilience allows us to bounce back and take whatever life can deal us! I have learnt to have a backup plan. I usually ask myself- what is the worst thing that could happen in this situation- what do I do? What is the second worst thing- what do I do? How can I be proactive so the worst does not happen? If it does, can I get through it? As we all age, we have coped and dealt with many misfortunes. Believe it or not the skin has become tougher so there are skills and abilities that help us get to the end of the tunnel! It does not mean there is no pain, no anxiety, no depression and sometimes lots of crying! Even- the why me? Remember life is not fair! Some people honestly do not deal with the same issues as others. Some get all aces while others get all 2s in the deck of life! It is what is done with the cards and how we play them! Resilience! Resilient! Are these words in your consciousness? Can you reflect on your life realizing- yes, I am resilient! I have made it through many tough times!

A POSTCARD FROM CASA LOMA TORONTO ONTARIO CANADA

A visit to Toronto often includes a trip to see Casa Loma.

It sits on a hill close to downtown Toronto. Built in 1911-1914 by Sir Henry Pellat who was an eccentric, wealthy man. He and his wife- Lady Pellat lived there brom 1913 to 1923 but the cost of the place became unbearable for them. The "castle" has a secret staircase and an underground tunnel to the stable  over a block away.

There are 98 rooms, 5 different architectural styles and a view of the city from the 300 foot tower. Top left, the billard room was a popular place after dinner.  Top right- features a view of the stables used for the horses of the Queen's Own Rifles of Canada. My favourite is the bottom right- the Conservatory.You can see the outside from the full view of Casa Loma in the top postcard section. It is that rectangle part that sticks out from the main floor. What a sun room full of plants! Wouldn't any modern huge millionaire's home envy this feature? Bottom right- the Oak room wich was Sir Henry's drawing room. The panels were completed by artisans in England then shipped to Canada.
When Sir Henry and his wife could no longer afford to live there, the City took it over. Now Tourists roam on guided tours through the castle. There are many social events held there such as weddings and other fund raising functions. Once easy to book, it now has its own modern price tag. My first Prom, Grade 11 in 1967, was held there at a minimal cost. I am certain most High Schools today can no longer afford to book such an extravagant place. I visited it several times as a child in Toronto. I have photos of my girls taken on one of those summer day trip jaunts. Of course a photo of them in the Conservatory is included! The grounds are beautiful too. Flowers, bushes and trees abound! With all the modern glass towers, this whimsical site takes us to another time! If you come to Toronto, be sure to put it on your list of places to visit!
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.

NOVEMBER WAS A BUSY MONTH

How was your November? A birthday dinner, Christmas shopping, Remembrance Day celebrations, putting up the Christmas lights, decorating the house, a parade or two and working on the normal routines at work and home made the month quite busy but productive. The arrival of December brings some relief as the bulk of Christmas preparations are done. The fresh tree will be bought in a week and the decorating will occur while watching a Christmas movie! There are are dinners and parties planned! Thank you November for getting me to a good space of being able to enjoy the festive season! Maybe I can get out and snap some much needed photos to use in my blog!!

DIETS DIETS DIETS EVERYWHERE

Everywhere we turn someone is giving us advice about a diet, a diet plan or how to lose weight. A movie star, a sports figure and even annoying work colleagues are in our face about weight. People apologize for eating a chocolate or cookie. Why? Healthy eating and exercise will work. Watch your snacks and time of day you eat. Smaller meals throughout the day. But  chocolate is a food group and actually can help your mood. For me it is the exercise piece that I want to maintain. Not for weight loss but it just makes me feel good to work my body and muscles. No big trips to the gym or a private trainer- it would be fun to have one- but making sure in my day to walk, go up stairs, do a few weights- which could include picking up the grandchildren- and some stretching. It begs the question. What is our North American obsession with our bodies and having to look young? I think Europeans have a similar obsession too! What is more important looking good or feeling good? Of course, we can try to have both! For me feeling good is the priority. It means not just a physical appearance but inside- mentally and spiritually! No matter what I do I will not look 25 or 35 or even 45 again. Do I have to look younger or can I honestly be proud and happy to reach my age and well feel good about me? To enjoy a big meal with friends  in the holiday season is a must. Watching the calories- yes is important! But honestly- life is too short not to indulge occassionally! How do you feel about you? Are you becoming too obsessed with your weight? Do you want to be a little slimmer? Moderation is the key. Healthy living! But happy living is more important! Let us eat cake!

DO YOU LIVE A FRUITFUL LIFE?

Is your life full of activities that bring meaning to you? Is there variety? Do you muddle through your day or do you have a purpose to it? Do you wake up with joy or is it a drag? Do you go to sleep at night wondering what's it all about? Like the movie- What's it all about Alfie? If you were to arrange a fruit platter showing your life, what would it look like?

NANA SAYS PARENT-TEACHER INTERVIEWS CAN BE POSITIVE

When our little children go to school, there is the anxiety of wondering if the child will be a good student, a well behaved student or the class trouble maker. There is always a relief for most parents that their child is doing okay. Of course there are some parents that are disappointed their children have not been recommended for Harvard or Oxford at age 4. What my little genius is just doing okay? Academics and social development are both important. The solid B student can still grow up to have a fine life. If a child is struggling in a subject, there is an opportunity to work positively on the knowledge needed for that subject at home and school. At the parent-teacher interview there can be a positive diaglogue about your child- strengths and weaknesses- areas to improve. Believe or not your perfect little boy or girl can be normal! Yes and can work on some areas of improvement! Just like the real world! Your first job- a boss will point out your areas for improvement! Creating a good relationship between home and school is vital for the family daily routines. School phobias are not pretty! So a child that likes the teacher, the school, the friends- well is more important than A plusses! A parent's relationship with the teacher goes a long way! If there is a challenge on a matter, for example, approach the teacher with the facts, be positive and respectful. Don't start a dialogue with- "the problem with education today"! Your discussion should focus on your child and the situation that brings you to the table. Remember one half of all education belongs to the home! There need to be opportunities to read, learn math, new skills and exercise as well as having fun! The teacher is your partner- not the one to do the parenting- that is your job! So at your parent-teacher interviews- be a partner!

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN

Four weeks to Christmas and the local parades are in full swing. Attending the one in Richmond Hill last Sunday saw the big guy arriving to cheers and waves of the crowd.

Mrs. Claus decided to come with him too. He was headed to the local Mall where he will receive the children and any adults that will let him know what they want for Christmas. Yes, 4 weeks to the big day! How are your Christmas plans going? Are you having your own parade in your community? Do you have a local toy drive?

WASN'T THAT A PARTY!

After Black Friday shopping, a local Santa Claus parade and the Argonauts win at Grey Cup, it was a party weekend. People had a good time- no injuries! After the party it is time to get back to the normal daily routines and a Monday morning. An anniversary of any event brings memories and reflections to those involved. So 100 years ago a Toronto team won the Grey Cup and ironically a Toronto team won it again! For me it was not about the winning but people coming from all over Canada to have a party! Celebrating in good spirit with rivalries but respect and all in good fun! Makes us proud to be Canadian that we can respect our differences and love each other anyway!

A POSTCARD FROM THE GREY CUP

If anyone has a postcard from the Grey Cup try to send one to me! I am sure in a history of over 100 years there would be a few postcards of the event occurring in the Canadian Footbal League. Each city from Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Regina, Winnipeg, Toronto, Hamilton, Ottawa and to Montreal have had a turn at winning the Cup. Have those cities made postcards of their wins?

TRYING TO RELAX DURING THE BUSY SEASON

Christmas season with all its tasks, parties and expectations can be stressful at the best of times. By planning and organizing and perhaps doing less, it can be enjoyed. Shopping has become easier with online shopping, gift cards at so many stores, and longer store hours. Making a list and strategizing what needs a personal visit to a store and what can be ordered is a simple list. Flowers, cookies and gift baskets are wonderful festive gifts from a simple online order or phone call. Writing one newsletter and printing copies that can be tucked in Christmas cards saves lots of writing. Or email the newsletter as an attachment so your friend or family member has some update from you. Follow up with personal phone calls in the New Year. January is a great time to reconnect with people as well! You have lots of time and less pressure. Bake a few items if wanted but remember there are many great bakeries or sections of grocery stores that can help you. At any big dinner let everyone bring a food item so all the work does not belong to one hostess! If family time is what you want then make simple family get togethers with lots of photos! If anyone of us remember our best memories it usually involved simple activities. For me, going downtown and looking at Eatons and Simpsons store windows at Yonge and Queen still sticks out in my mind. Yes, the lights along University Avenue- driving by in a car. Trips to the mall are modern occurrences but are they really pleasant! There are small stores and bazaars looking for your business. Right now in Toronto there is the One of a Kind Craft Sale with artists from across the country selling their wares. If you can not make it, look it up online and find items you might like as they all have websites where you could order a wanted item! Embrace the Christ in Christmas and look to the community for ways to help like the toy drives and food bank donations. How are your Christmas preparations going? Are you feeling the pressure yet? What can you think can help in your world?

Or are you doing too much and it is just a blur?

BLACK FRIDAY FRENZY

Are you a shopper? All the hype about the bargains today! What is Black Friday? A little history- the day after Thanksgiving in the United States that starts the real shopping for Christmas and helps those businesses that were in the red to sell enough that their sales would now be in the black! Many Canadians go across the border to pick up the great sales. In the GTA, many people go to New York state, especially the malls and stores in Buffalo! Well, Canadian businesses have  embraced the idea and want us to stay home to try and get some good buys here. My email account has been full of great bargains to buy  at home and I can even order online. Stores like The Bay and Sears have their own Black Friday sales. There is one idea- if you are a great bargain shopper, there are always lots of sales in January at great reductions too! End of season sales- like buying the children next year's snowsuits in April! However, there is something about a bargain and bragging how much you paid for an item! If you don't like crowds, sitting at your computer in your jammies getting your bargains and free shipping is quite appealing! There is a human element though. Are we still just hunters and gatherers at heart? Has anything changed? Shopping has become a full time activity! Running for a sale does give us a little much needed exercise! What will you be doing today? Oh to shop or not to shop, that is the question?

GREY CUP WEEKEND AT 100 YEARS

The Canadian Fooball League is celebrating 100 hundred years in Toronto Ontario Canada at the Rogers Centre. Home team- Toronto Argonauts and the Calgary Stampeders are playing. West versus East tradition- a Canadian tradition! The Grey Cup is the prize. Grey cup parties will occur in many homes on Sunday November 25, 2012. Families will have bets that live in other parts of Canada. Remembering other games like the one that had to be postponed due to the fog! Or the1976 one when my daughter Natasha was born! What memories do you have of the Grey Cup? Have you attended a game? What was your favourite win? Who are rooting for this weekend?

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ARE ON CANADIAN STREETS

Slowly, houses are beginning to shine with Christmas lights and lawn decorations. I put mine up in two stages. With 2 new prelit Christmas trees, it was a challenge to find enough extension cords for all the plugs. It is a beautiful time of year with each house or business using their own imagination to have lights. Richmond Hill has old fashioned lamp post lights-quite pretty at night. Of course, with other cultures abounding there are many gaps on streets with no lights. Other faiths do have lights as part of their traditions but just not in the Christmas season. Lights are joyous not just pretty!

NANA SAYS SIT DOWN TO EAT YOUR FOOD

It is safer to sit and eat our food. What is it with children that want to run around and eat? With my little grandchildren, there is a spot at the kitchen table for them. Sit and eat. Sit and drink. Yet, before any time passes one gets up and walks around with the food. Back to the table! Fast forward! How many adults do we see every day- eating in their cars, walking and eating, working and eating! Is it about good manners or is there a real safety issue? Choking! People and children come into any hospital on any given day from a choking incident. Even with sitting and eating, it is still possible to choke on our food or drink. Jumping, running, walking or driving can increase the chances! How many times do you talk to someone on the phone that is chewing food in your ear? Well that is manners! You may want to choke the person yourself! Be a role model and sit to eat with any young children. Demonstrate what you preach! As we age it is more important to chew food well to reduce choking or aspiration incidents. Besides sitting and eating is a real social time. Spending time with loved ones at a table with food can be one of the most enjoyable times of the day!

DO IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME!

I learnt to sew from my mother. She would sew an item, check it then take her razor blade and rip out the seam. So I would use the trial and error method until I started to think about it and decided if I measured the item first then sew perhaps I would only need to sew it once! Voila! It worked. And I bought a seam ripper- a very cheap sewing tool just in case I did need to remove some stitches or hem some pants or a skirt. By taking our time with items in our lives and planning, thinking, measuring it saves lots of aggravation in the long run! New furniture, for example, may not fit the rooms you have in your home! So map out the room before buying! Where to hang a picture on a wall? Measure first! In my first homes there would be many holes behind each picture I hung- now one! When I knit a sweater for example, I knit both sleeves at the same time thus saving time of measuring and checking tension etc. Every knitter has had the experience of one sleeve being slightly longer than the other. Counting stitches and marking them down on a piece of paper is a simple method. Writing in our lives!  It has become so easy for High School and University students with spell  and grammar check. However, it is still a good idea to have a dictionary and thesaurus handy to know the meaning of words. A little concise book of English grammar can be another tool for doing it right! Is it affect or effect? What is the noun and what is the verb? What is an adjective and an adverb? Take an inventory of how long it takes to complete any task. Then dissect the steps involved and you may discover there are ways to eliminate some of those steps. Did you take three steps forward and one step backwards? Perhaps! Each new task takes time to learn how to do it but over time it becomes a skill. So the trial and error method may get you started until you determine your own -- I will do it right the first time! Have you had tasks in your life that are second nature now? Do you find ways to reduce the number of steps it takes to complete a task?

EVERYONE'S A THERAPIST

As a trained Social Worker-Therapist, it is always interesting how many people think they can do what I do. Speaking to, giving advice and knowing the right answer is not therapy. It is speaking and giving advice. In my current employment, there are many times when providing resources to a patient and/or family, there is minimal clinical depth. Other times there is a real therapeutic process occurring. Counselling is not just talking. It is a skill that comes with training, experience and continued learning. There are different theoretical bases, types of counselling and modes of intervention. Crisis counselling is different from relationship,adjustment and family counselling. Often issues are recognized but can not be addressed as a discharge is all that is being discussed. Trying to fix a family's dysfunction is not the problem of the team. Friends in social circles think they can counsel and fix their friends. Stay friends! Be a good friend but do not ever think you are a therapist! Even work colleagues think they should try to fix each other! As a therapist, my view is very clear- fix yourself first! Projecting your own issues on others, keeps the spotlight off you is a nice decoy! Be a good work colleague- kind and supportive! Remember not everyone is a therapist and does not have the same skill and professional boundaries needed to respect you and your issues. If you need a good therapist, ask your friendly Social Worker who can recommend one for you!

A POSTCARD FROM RICHMOND HILL ONTARIO CANADA

Every hometown has its local pieces of history and interest. I found these postcards by a local artist- A. Vermeulen done several years ago.

Top left-the Presbyterian Church on Yonge Street. Top right- the United Church on Yonge Street. Both built in the 1800s. And the Mill Pond- a popular spot for Canada Geese, ducks and a few people.
In the summer there are concerts in the park and the winter skating on the ice with a Winter Carnival in Feburary.
How does the drawing compare to a real photograph!

I've called Richmond Hill my home for most of my life. The little town north of Toronto! Actually its population now is equal to other cities in Canada. The bus, the Go train or the highway can take you south to Toronto or north to cottage country! It may not be the best place to live in the world, but it is not bad! Of course my very favourite building continues to be the Central Library. 

Especially in the Spring time. What do you have to say about your hometown? Home is where the heart is and in my case- my family!!

EARLY MORNING- A TIME FOR RENEWEL

Each day brings a chance for renewel. New goals, new conversations, new hope! Mornings give us a chance to forge ahead! To look down the road! To observe our world, our community, our street! To wait for the shadows to leave! A time to walk, jog, drive to work! If wanted, a time to pray and be thankful for another day! A quiet time with few people around to make noise! Mornings!

ARE YOU A NEMESIS?

The Goddess of divine punishment according to Greek mythology! Or simply defined as retributive justice in the Oxford dictionary. Or an agent of such a downfall! Sometimes words or ideas pop into our consciousness and by pursuing the meaning it can bring some insight to current events in our lives. So the word nemesis greeted me this morning. Nemesis pursued Zeus! I think Sherlock Holmes had his nemesis- Moriarty? Do we all have one? Are we one to others? Why was I thinking this word this morning? Does it have some significance? Or not? Carl Jung believed in the Collective Unconscious. Was something coming from a deeper level? By paying attention to the world around us, do we get ideas, clues or warnings about our lives? Do you ever have a thought and wonder, where did that come from? Why was I thinking that? By listening to our thoughts and observing our own actions, great insight can be gained.

NANA SAYS COLD WEATHER BRINGS WARMER CLOTHES

As many parts of Canada have already experienced snow and cold weather, parents have pulled out the winter clothes and boots. It can be a struggle with little ones to put on snow pants, jackets, hats and scarves as well as the bulky boots. Children often resist. What was a quick exit from home can become a 5-10 minute ordeal! Then the teenage child that insists on wearing spring clothes on the cold days. On my winter walks I have seen many red ears on the older child due to the resistance of wearing a hat. Winter or cold weather since it is not official until December 21 is more work for the parent. Planning and organizing clothes by the door can help with the routine. Patience can be stretched. Allowing the younger child to get ready uses a lot of it. Have extra pairs of mitts/gloves and scarves in several places. I always had extra in my car all winter when the children were little and even when they were teenagers. Thus if something is left at home, there is the proverbial backup. Check the lost and found box regularly at the school or day care as many items find their way there. Children misplace, lose and don't care about their winter clothes. Even as adults the layering can be cumbersome and annoying at times. If I am going to an evening event with heels, my boots, scarf and gloves are put in the car as my backup too. Having several matching sets of winter apparel saves the problem of losing one mitt! There is another pair! Oh the struggle to keep warm! What are your suggestions for winter organization? Do you find it a big annoyance? Or do you just roll with it?

GIVE WITH A WARM HAND

Not a cold one! A work mate tells me this is her mother's saying. Rather than reading the Will and this is what you will inherit, her mother has decided to help her daughter in the living. She can enjoy seeing her child use some money for things she needs. A cousin transferred a cottage to his children so he could see them enjoy it as well as continue using it if needed. My mother-in-law liked to give money when her granddaughters were taking a big trip somewhere . If my children say it's too much, I just tell them I took it out of the Estate! It is important to let the family in your life make their own way. Every aging parent does need a certain amount for their old age. However, I witness people hoarding whatever they have and threaten adult children with the Will- if you are not good to me, I will cut you out of it! I recall a book written that stated to die broke! Use up your resources in the living so you have enough to last for your needs but why have tremendous investments left if they were only for you! If you want your children and grandchildren to have them- well why are you waiting? Balancing the finances does take creativity sometimes. If we only knew how long we would live, then we could adjust accordingly! I also witness Elder Abuse in my work. Adult children refusing to use their parents' financial resources on their needs stating their folks have no money for things like private care or equipment. They are more concerned about losing a piece of the pie! So educating people to use their own investments and money for their needs as well as sharing what they chose to share in the living could reduce some of this exisiting abuse. Yes, it does go on more than you think! A parent assigns a child to be Power of Attorney to manage his/her money not to steal it! Most children are very respectful and do a great job! However, there are a certain percentage that don't! Some parents assign two Powers of Attorney as a double blind! Keeps everyone honest! So balancing what we need and sharing what we have as we age takes research and talking with our children! I like the warm hand, don't you?

NOVEMBER A MONTH WITH MANY ACTIVITIES

Christmas shopping is underway in a huge way. I am having trouble hiding all the packages from my grandchildren. Letters to the troops are completed, addressed and stamped-ready for mailing. Sunday was Remembrance Day so time was made to attend a parade and service in Richmond Hill.

This year was very well attended with the beautiful sunny day and the fact it was on a Sunday.

Many wreaths were laid from all levels of government, local agencies and even for some individual family members from various generations that had served for Canada. After snapping a few pictures, I placed my lonely poppy to join them. Can you see it in the picture? I like the Ottawa service where people put their poppies on the unknown soldier's grave. It becomes an array of red love!

Sunday is always a day to rest- after two grandchildren had a sleepover, finish some household tasks-vacuum and mop the main floor, fold some laundry and work on the two blogs. Adolph depends on me to type his blog. Actually he had his Minestra soup featured on the Gastropost page of The National Post along with many others. I was excited. He was complacent! His blog continues to be about food from his Ciociaria area and sometimes he tells about food he has tried from other regions. http://granpalovestocook.blogspot.com
Earlier in the day, walking back from the service- about 20 minutes from the middle of Richmond Hill, I found a tree that still had some leaves so took another fall picture.

A strong Oak tree with green leaves amongst the yellow, a little reminder of the strength of Canadians everywhere. Sometimes I wish Sunday could be cloned into two days! How was your Remembrance Day? Is Christmas shopping underway in your home? Are your little grandchildren keeping you busy?

A POSTCARD FROM STONEHENGE

In the Salisbury Plains in Southern England lies the rock formation of Stonehenge. On my first trip ever outside Canada in 1967, I had the joy of visiting this historic site. There was no fence surrounding it. People could touch it. Not now!

As you can see from the postcard I bought- no fence! A friend of mine visited England in 1980 and sent me a Stonehenge postcard.
September 25, 1980- Denise wrote " Dear Barbara and Adolph, Over here for 2 weeks-going to Stonehenge today- travelled down from Scotland yesterday and off to London tomorrow for a couple of day then home. Cheers! Denise"
Since I love history, I have books on my shelf about the mystery and the theories surrounding Stonehenge. Druids are the popular notion. So any visit to Great Britain is worth a visit to this site.
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.

WRITING OUR CANADIAN TROOPS

Each year our family composes a letter to send to our Armed Forces wherever they are serving in the world. It is easy to find the addresses by looking up the National Defence website and see the link- write the troops. If you want and it is easier just send a message via email. Think about the ripple effect of reaching someone that may need a kind message being so far from home and his/her loved ones. A little kindness going a long way!

THE MAPLE LEAF

For Canadians, the maple leaf has become symbolic of our nation. It's on our flag. It come from maple trees. There are a variety of these decidious ones that  grow across the country. One variety even make a delicious syrup. Hardy, changes colour in the Fall and rejuvenates in the Spring with beautiful green foilage. Its' seeds blow in the wind and make numerous new trees everywhere. Sometimes in our gardens where we do not want any new ones. No wonder it is indicative of our nation!

IN FLANDERS FIELD

In Flanders Fields, a poem by Canadian John McCrae- May 1915, has been recited by school children for generations in Canada.

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, feld 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; by yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

There are web sites and government sites telling many stories of the Great War and McCrae's story. Perhaps, look them up and learn more about our history. Did you have to recite this poem at Remembrance Day ceremonies as a child? I remember learning it in the early grades. It really transcends time and is so relevant with any modern conflict.

NANA SAYS CHILDREN ARE PARTICIPATING IN VETERANS' WEEK

Every year as we honour our Veterans at Remembrance Day , it is quite noticeable that young people are attending the ceremonies. High Schools across Canada now plan trips to memorials. Some even venture across to Europe visiting places like Vimy Ridge in France. Canadian history and our place in World history has become cool. This interest is due in part to our history. Actually, due to the involvement and commitment of our modern military going to places like Afghanistan and peacekeeping in Cyprus and other parts of the Middle East, our youth is viewing modern heroes serving our nation. News stories featuring our Highway of Heros on the 401, brings home the price that is paid to protect our country. Teaching our children not to glorify war but to promote peace takes a fine balance. Informing our young family members about other family members that served keeps the memories alive as well as saying thank you for the work. It helps with life's lessons of why it is important to resolve conflicts without injury. Honouring our Veterans also teaches that life can be tough with tough times. Do what you need to do in your family to remember. Wearing a poppy can be the easiest gesture. Besides they are rather pretty. Depending on the age of the child, too much detail may frighten the little ones while teenagers will understand differently.

REMEMBERING OUR CANADIAN VETERANS

Once just Remembrance Day, now we have Veterans' Week November 5-11. It gives more time to reflect on our military history and the sacrifices made to have the peace we have today in Canada. Our recent missions in Afghanistan and other nations bring home the fact there are still conflicts and suffering in the world.

In parks, town centers and avenues, monuments exist to honour local heroes who served and those who died. The army, navy, air force and merchant marine have men and women from all walks of life. In our family, there are individuals that served in World War One- Ernest Ellis and World War Two- Ellerington Park, Parkin Alton and Norman Ellis. Families across Canada will have similar stories about their loved ones. A family friend has a Mom- Amy Evans- who served with the Canadian army in England. She met Jack there and he came to Canada with her as a War husband.
If you have not done it, talk to the older Vets and get their stories- write them down, film them, tape them. Once they are gone, then their stories are gone. Learn about the famous battles and Canada's role in them. By honouring our past, we learn to find a way to resolve conflict peacefully in this modern world. I hope the Canadian military returns to its peacekeeping role- helping communities build, bringing fresh water supplies, education and health- in a wonderful way. When you think of Canada's history, what stories come to mind for you? Do you have a special person you like to honour?

BEING AN INDIVIDUAL

Takes courage. As important as it is to be a member of a social group, knowing your worth as a person in that group is vital.

Is the whole  the sum of its parts? Sometimes we all need to leave the group to be valued for ourselves. In our multicultural Canada, many new immigrants do struggle with the need to belong to two worlds- their cultural or religious group and Canadian society yet find a way to be an individual! The forest has room for many different trees and vegetation living side by side. Does Society have the room?

A POSTCARD FROM FALL IN ONTARIO

As our Fall weather is winding down and all the leaves are almost off the trees, I found some postcards from various spots in Ontario depicting the Fall colours and thought I would share them with you.

One camp friend of mine wrote- August 13, 1963-"Dear Barb, We're having a real riot up here on our canoe trip. We're in this little town with one whole store and 2 houses. Maybe? the family will go back to Rock Lake. See you then, Sharon" It was from Kiosk Ontario.
From Minden Ontario family friends wrote- "1969- Dear May and Eli, Having a week at a friends cottage. Weather could be better but at least it's fine. Will call you when we get back. Les and Geoff send their love to everyone. Cheers Eve and Maurice"

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.

A POSTCARD FROM SCOTLAND

Anyone who has been to Scotland, say it is one of the most beautiful places they have ever seen. My stepdad's parents- my grandparents liked to visit Scotland every couple of years when they were able. They would take a ship over and stay for a couple of months with cousins. Aberdeen was the birthplace of one of them. I think it was Granddad.

The postcards are from the 1960s.

In September 7, 1963- Granma wrote: "This is a card for your collection Having very fine weather and enjoying ourselves. Hope everyone well. Tell Mom to write. Love to all. Grandad and Granma"

There were family friends who wrote often. Hugh Fraser had been a boarder with us from about 1955 to 1957. He worked on the ground crew with Trans Canada Air Lines which later became Air Canada. After he married he returned to Scotland to work but kept in touch with our family for decades. I think he obtained a job with British Airways. I believe they had two children.

October 7, 1961, Hugh and Ishbel wrote- "As you can see we arrived safe. My plane 2 1/2 hours late. Hugh's 25 minutes early. Going around all the country spots like two Canadian tourists. Weather not bad, not keeping us in anyway. See you all soon. Ishbel and Hugh"

September 7 1968 Hugh and Ishbel wrote-" Having a lovely "caravan" holiday here in Aberdeen. It's not Hawaii but we've had terrific weather with lots of sunshine. We both rather like Aberdeen and wouldn't mind staying further. Maybe we'll see you next year. Love Ishbel and Hugh"

The large postcard and the one along the margin are postmarked from Paisley, Renfrewshire. Again from Ishbel and Hugh. The large card, from  June 11, 1962 illustrates the beauty of Scotland. From the script on the card it says- "The Kyles of Bute, Argyll. This beautiful waterway separates the Island of Bute from the mainland. In this picture a Clyde pleasure steamer is seen rounding Buttock Point at the entrance to Loch Ridden." Th couple seemed to love this area of their home country. The top card is from Loch Ness.

A friend from  work at the time at CNIB wrote me a card in 1984.
"2.2.84 Hi Barb! Touring by car with Mary. We have been on a few Mt. walks- very beautiful scenery. Today we saw Loch Ness (no " Nessie") and Ben Nevis. Ging to a castle at Nairn tomorrow-then to a theatre at Pitlochry to see a play. Scotland looks just like the postcards. See you. Love Adele"

My folks visited Scotland a couple of times. I have dozens of cards from their visit. Perhaps another Postcard from Scotland will be warranted at a future date.
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.