IF IT HAS A SURFACE YOU HAVE TO CLEAN IT

The Spring air brings on the energy to clean. Preparing the house for the Easter Dinner next week, means taking a good look around and to clean the corners. Today I washed the curtains and windows along the front of the house. Each day this week I will continue to pick some fabric items to wash. The fragance of a clean house is welcoming ! The problem with my house is all my little knickknacks that need cleaning! But if it has a surface you have to clean it! Are you in the mood for spring cleaning?

A TIME TO LIVE AND A TIME TO DIE

Watching someone you love die,
Brings tears, you cry!

Until you think there there are no more tears,
Then the emotion, the anger, the fears.

The realization of the loss,
Let's you know who is the Boss.

Death waits for no one,
Can take you in the midst of fun.

As your cherished person leaves,
You learn the meaning of "grieves".

Grief seizes your head, your soul,
Surviving a day becomes a goal.

Barbara Di Mambro
Poems 2012

MY EASTER WREATH 2012

I have been trying to improve my creative projects and recycle items in my house. So using some ribbon, a wire wreath and an Easter bunny from previous years along with purchasing the plastic eggs on a stick, I made a new wreath for my door for this Easter.

So what do you think?

OUT LIKE A LION- A CANADIAN MARCH

What an unusual month- cold then one of the warmest on record then back to cold and chance of snow flurries today. It seems different but I recall other years with snow storms in the middle of April. My Sonya was born April 4th and on her arrival to the world a horrendous Ice storm and cold weather prevailed for the next week here in the GTA. Spring is never warm or good enough! Funny we always want to go from Parkas to shorts but it really does not work that way, does it! As with most northern countries, we always have a sweater handy. Dress in layers- layer up and layer down. Does weather help determine the nature of its people- I think so! We Canadians must be flexible, accept change-as it can occur daily, and find creative ways to stay warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather. Hardy- don't forget hardy! Just the vastness of this great nation, means that a sunny day can occur on one coast and a tornado on another one! Are you having a sunny day? Is there snow in your forecast? Whatever you are facing? The good news is a new month is about to start. That will change everything!

DON'T CRY OVER SPILLED MILK

Is a piece of advice often thrown at us. When little things happen to us, we can ruminate and whine or just get over it. Can't change it! Move on! Clean up the mess! So whatever is happening in my life, I will try to move on. So I won't cry over spilled milk. However, I might cry if I spill my last glass of chilled white wine!

NANA SAYS HELPING CHILDREN DEAL WITH CRITICAL ISSUES IS TOUGH

It is emotional enough for adults to deal with stressful and life threatening situations. Knowing how to support and deal with the feelings of our little children becomes tough. Death means different things to children of different ages. Including them in the process, takes careful judgement on the part of parents. There is a lot of literature helping with strategies and considerations for parents- use these resources and then think about who your child is and what would be best. Parents know their own children better than anyone else. Remember there is no right or wrong answer on what to do! Just have the courage to do what you think is best!  Having children visit sick family members is important. Involving them in the process if only for a short time helps the sick person as well as allowing the child to know they did something. A beautiful handmade card! Some flowers! A box of chocolates! Or sometimes just a High Five from a grandson! Or better yet a hug and a kiss!

THAT LITTLE CANADIAN CROCUS

A crocus in your spring garden, is nature's way of telling us that life goes on.

As soon as some warm weather starts to occur, the green leaves then the colourful flowers emerge.

There are a variety of colours. Many years ago, when we ripped out all the grass in the back and put in boulders making paths and gardens, we planted many spring bulbs. Of course any gardener knows they must be planted in the Fall, to lay dormant in the earth coming up in the Spring.

My favourite colour purple abounds everywhere. Even have a little spring bug, for the bug enthusiasts out there!
Do you have a crocus or two in your garden? Do they renew your faith in the circle of life? Did you know it is a member of the Iris family? Just the beginning of many spring delights!

MONDAY BLUES

The change in weather-colder today- sure fits with the mood. A busy stressful weekend can bring a need for an extra day off just to rest! The good thing about Mondays is the opportunity to start again. New cases from the weekend offer new challenges. The bad thing it is Monday! Usually, I am okay with the start of a new week. Today the mood is different! Our moods do affect how we see the world. It is strange isn't it? The glass- half empty, half full theory! Sometimes we do see it half full and see joy. Sometimes we see it half empty and see sorrow. The same glass, the same world! Good mood, bad mood! How are you feeling today? Do you have a hard time with Mondays or is it just another day? What do you do to try to change your mood? Or do you just accept that sometimes a low mood helps us to appreciate the good times?

A POSTCARD FROM SAINTE-MARIE AMONG THE HURONS ONTARIO CANADA

One of my favourite places to take visitors to Canada is Sainte-Marie among the Hurons (1639-1649). It is a 17th century replica site.

Many years ago a living re-creation of the Jesuit mission was built. It was Ontario's first European community. The First Nations tribe of Hurons lived prolifically in an area north of Toronto called Huronia.
In 1649, the Iroquian nation fought and destroyed the mission and almost decimated not only the Hurons but other nations such as the Neutrals and Tobaccos. It is located near the quaint town of Midland, Ontario which houses the Martry's church which Pope John visited during one of his many visits to North America.

The Jesuits wrote a document called The Jesuits and Allied Documents which gives great insight to many of the First Nations' people. Of course, they were trying to convert them to Christianity.
You can see from one of the postcards the corn growing. Corn was a major staple of the Hurons. Near my home here in Richmond Hill, Ontario there are a few corn fields. It is a reminder of the people who lived here prior to us. Corn continues to be a huge crop for North Americans as it is a product in so many of our foods. I just love corn on the cob which ripens in August here in Ontario. There have been some archeological sites found near my home as well.

No one sent me a postcard from this quaint and beautiful site. I know I have sent some to people.

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.

T.G.I.F.

Thank God It's Friday! The battle cry for workers everywhere. No matter how much we love our jobs, there is nothing more enticing than the thoughts of a weekend. Unfortunately, most of us try to pack too much into two days- children's lessons, shopping, visiting friends, overnight trips! Sometimes it is worthwhile to do less! One thing I do not have as much time to do is to sit and just read a book. I read all the time but 2 or 3 pages- not the hours as I did as a child. There are some baby blankets needing to be finished! While watching a movie, it is a good time to slow down and finish them! Of course, the quiet time organizing a photo album with scrapbooking features! Nice quiet activities that take time but give pleasure. Quiet time lets us think and get in touch with ourselves! In your busy weekend, stop and enjoy. Play outside with your child. Slowly sip your coffee or other drink. Write down the thoughts that pop into your head. Focus on one or two things. For example, while the dishwasher is running, time yourself and use that time to slow down. Of course, any exercise- a slow walk, a bike ride, table tennis or whatever is in your environment. Grab it! Do you feel the weekend tires you more than a work day? Can you think of ways to slow down?

BLOGGING IS A WAY OF LIFE NOW!

So Post # 600 comes with some reflection. A daily challenge has become a routine, a motivator to write. Blogging brings a need to create. When I take pictures, I see the potential to use them in my posts- as a symbol, as a theme. I may look for a picture to use in one or a picture gives me an idea! I love it when someone I know comments that they read my blog. To those in Germany and Russia who read me regularly-thanks for visiting. To Roy, Edna and friends here in Canada and United States, I am glad you visit as often as you do! Not every post is great or profound- that's okay- to keep going, writing, digging and thinking of ideas. Like life- just to get up and put one foot forward everyday. Keep going! Keep writing! Keep blogging!

NANA SAYS SPRING BRINGS SAFETY ISSUES

Being outdoors with little ones means reviewing the safety rules. Crossing the street1 Playing in the street! Helmets when riding bikes! For some reason we all become more relaxed with the warmer weather coming. Hats and sunscreen by the front door. Bug spray bought for the rest of the season. Teaching the little ones and big ones about the safety issues is paramount. And water safety! Life jackets in all boats. Continue to provide swimming lessons so children don't panic in the water. A work mate of mine said her mother is finally going to learn to swim! Are there areas in your life to be reviewed? Of course, don't talk to strangers in the park!

HAPPY NOROOZ TO MY PERSIAN FRIENDS IN CANADA

And to those across the sea. Celebrating shows solidarity for your right to continue this anceint custom of bringing in your New Year. A work mate stated that in Iran it was almost banned by the government so the people began to celebrate even more as a way to protest. The symbols of Spring are universal symbols like the Egg.

Happy Norooz!

WELCOME SPRING! AND THE ROADSIDE FINDS!

Well it is officially here. I could hear the birds singing in the trees as I put out the garbage. Speaking about garbage, there must have been lots of spring cleaning as the number of items from small appliances to pieces of furniture were at the curbs of many houses on my street. I even found a small children's shelf to use for my grandchildren. So have you ever gone "curb diving" as opposed to dumpster diving! Many years ago on "big trash day", I retrieved a blanket box and hall table. Very dirty, full of grease, paint but with some hard work and steel wool, cleaned them up and now are two of my favourite pieces of furniture in my home. Of course with the need to downsize in the future, I resisted some of the other items at the curb-just the little shelf. Realistically, I do not have a little truck to haul anything anyway. A few years ago, I put an old ping pong table with net and paddles at the curb. My daughter and I had a real laugh watching so many people stop to try and get it into their cars. Eventually the right SUV came along and hauled it away. Curb finds are fun! Never hurts to look! Well admit it- have you ever found something useful at the curb?

SPRING CLEANUP

When the weather becomes warmer and sunny, there is a urge to clean and exercise. Yes I went for my power walk with weights Sunday. Spring with its renewel is always a time to reflect. For many, like myself, it brings a new sense of life- brighter days and longer nights. There is aways a chance for another snow storm or colder weather but if one more we do not get discouraged. One last big gas bill before the furnace is used less. Almost time to put away the boots and jackets-almost! Another month than the spring/summer clothes come out. Delayer! Declutter! Clean the house for the Easter celebrations! Or if you celebrate Passover- cleaning is in the air! I love the sound of the Spring birds chirping. Our red cardinal sits and sings in his tree. The red robin is trying to find some worms. Spring and its message of hope!

A POSTCARD FROM BARCELONA SPAIN

While tidying my folks' home with other family members,  I discovered many cards, letters and of course- postcards. What a delight to have a whole new supply and messages to share with readers. Mom and Dad attended many churches over the years and were friends with pastors and missionaries. This card from the beautiful city of Barcelona reflects one such friendship.

" June 23/99
Our thoughts were with you even as we enjoy Spain. Spent 5 days in Madrid seeing much of the city. Gordon took sick to his stomach and unable to eat on Friday night, Saturday &, Sunday. He was supposed to speak at the church on Sunday. However, Dick prepared a message on Saturday &, spoke on Sunday with an interpreter! We left Madrid on Tuesday and we are in Barcelona. It's a beautiful city and a very old city with lovely buildings, cathedrals, great sea-shore and many interesting things to see. Hope you're feeling much better Maisie & your back is healing. Love to you both. Dick & Doris"

Spain with its rich history and culture is sure a wonderful place to see. Sonya was in Spain at the end of her High School years with a group of friends. It was home to the Olympics years ago.

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.

ST PATRICK'S DAY EVEN FOR THE LITTLE IRISH

There are many Irish descendants in the world. Actually more than actually live in Ireland today. In my family we have about 3/8 Irish roots in our Canadian heritage. Irish are one of the main groups in Canadian history. Their perserverance and hard work founded our country. In the Toronto harbour there is a small Irish park honouring those who came to the city and died from illness on their many journeys in the 1840s to find a new life in Canada. As you raise your glass of "green beer' today, says cheers to the Irish!

A PRAYER TO THOSE I LOVE

Deal with the concerns of today. Look to the strength of family. Ask for comfort from God to help you have patience with the situation. Let your tears fall as they cleanse your soul!  Accept hugs from others as he did say where two or more gather in my name, I will be there. Hugs keep us going! Love prevails! Amen!

WHAT'S AROUND THE CORNER?

Are you on the right track? Do you wonder what is around the corner? Is it difficult to anticipate what is next? Life brings many unexpected twists and turns. Some quite wonderful! Some scary! It is important to keep going- having the courage not to quit! When you look and really look at the picture, what do you see? What thoughts pop into your head? The sky is blue, the trees are green, the track is clear, there are wild flowers on the side of the track- is there anything else that suggests a positive outcome. What do you think?

THE IDES OF MARCH

If your name is Julius Caesar then you have to worry! Since my name is Barbara, I think I am in the clear. Do you remember your Roman history? Come on, who said this to Julius? And why did he not heed the warning? Anyway have a good day!

AS THE WEATHER CHANGES SO DOES OUR MOOD

Warmer weather brings people outside. There is a feeling of renewel with Spring. Yesterday, everyone I encountered had something to say about -what a nice day outside! Some early birds were already in capri pants. I was surprised I did not see flip flops. I like the mood of people. There is some happiness, relaxation a feeling to get going- what ever that means! Change of season can also bring mood swings to those with mental health issues so beware of family members that may need your support. There is a need to clean inside and out. Soon to prune the trees and start the garden cleanup. I even tackled some areas of my garage on the weekend. The new Spring fashions with the "bold" colours are so enticing. Too early to put away all the winter woolies but the idea of fun clothes for warmer weather makes me smile. Spring is in the air was a popular song. Are you feeling the energy of the changing season? So why are you waiting? Get up and get going!!!

NANA SAYS ENJOY YOUR CHILD'S LITTLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS

And they will lead to good self-esteem. Parents have a lot of power in their children's lives. They are always looking to us for approval. Look at my drawing! Read to me! With older children, they may tease the younger ones just to get your attention. Comparing children's school achievements can be very touchy. There will always be a brighter child in any family. The parenting skills come with acknowledging each child uniquely and not comparing. I remember when my girls had their first part-time jobs. Actually for both it was in a donut shop. I went and visited them to see how they were doing. I saw the pride on their faces when they were serving a customer well and tidying the tables. All the birthday parties were at home. The girls planned the menu and decorated with me. I was proud of their organizational skills developing. Guess what? When it came to planning their weddings, both girls tackled it with skill, knowledge and organizational abilities. Little accomplishments lead to big accomplishments. We have a role as grandparents too in valuing each grandchild individually. More than one fridge in any family can become full of "art work" by little hands. Attending concerts or sports and encouraging our children in all walks of life is important. Occasionally, our children pay us back by telling us what a good job we are doing or thank us for being there during all the rough patches. Have you told a little one today how proud you are? Do you acknowledge the accomplishments of the children/grandchildren in your life?

SPRING IS AROUND THE CORNER

This time of year there is great anticipation for the end of winter. Regardless how mild our winter has been this year, we know there could be a cold spell or another winter blast. We have had snowstorms in April. But the signs of spring are here. My garden has some crocuses trying to rise from the ground. Saw and heard my first Robin or as we call them here in Canada- Robin red breasts!! Trying to decide to wear running shoes or keep my boots. I have already started to "layer down"as I am wearing my thinner jacket. Are you feeling the weather changing? Are you seeing some signs of Spring? Do you have the urge to do some Spring cleaning? Spring- that wonderful season after Winter!

SAD THAT PAINFUL EMOTION

Feeling sad takes us to the depth of our souls. There are some situations in life that are just sad. Can not sugar coat them. Sometimes we are so sad that there are no more tears. What do you do when you are feeling very sad?

A POSTCARD FROM NEWFOUNDLAND CANADA

Newfoundland and Labrador is a beautiful province on the eastern coast of Canada. Known for its fisheries, beautiful landscape and friendly people, it is on my bucket list to visit.

My brother Ron and his wife, Sheila visited the area in 2009 and sent a postcard to my folks in British Columbia.

"09/09/16- Hi Folks, having a very nice trip in Newfoundland, lots to see and the people are great to meet. Lots of moose coming down the hwy. Season opened last Sat. and the Newfies are very keen on their moose-home by Oct. 1st. Lotsa love, Ron, Sheila and the dogs."

Like other parts of Canada, the wildlife is prolific. It is worth a visit or two. Go on by!

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.

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU ASK FOR

Or pray for. I remember a fellow colleague who hated the boss and was so glad when the person was let go. I looked at her and said be careful what you ask for! She was perplexed! Sometimes and often you get what you asked for but not what you wanted. What do I mean! Well the boss that was let go was actually better than the next boss. She was so intent on wanting the one person to go that she did not even think she could get a worse boss. If you pray for a miracle, save my loved one's life! Did you mean at any cost? Many years ago, I was counselling a family member who had prayed for just that. Her father was in a coma, indefinitely. She questioned, why did I ask for the miracle. This is not my father anymore. She received what she prayed for. Often we really do not have control over many events in our lives. Irrational, impulsive thinking and requests can get us results that were not what we really wanted! You want the richest husband. Did you mean the man who was never home and always at the office? You want the smartest child. Did you mean the child that can not make friends but is the smartest? The list could go on. Can we ask for guidance to make the right choices for us? Can we ask for patience and understanding? Have you ever regretted asking for something and it is exactly what you received but not what you needed or wanted?

SOCIAL WORK WEEK

What a fun week to celebrate the profession I have chosen. An open house, a luncheon, sweatshirts and giving out gift bags to all the units the social workers provide care and support. Do you know a Social Worker? Well, remember to celebrate the profession. You can find social workers in hospitals, schools, welfare agencies, protecting abused children and women, in mental health clinics and units, as family and marital therapists, on trauma teams- just to name a few places and roles. The theme in Ontario this year is getting people back on track! If you need some assistance getting someone back on track call your nearby Social Worker. Yeah- Happy Social Workers' Week!

FLOWERS BRIGHTEN UP ANY OCCASION

Everyone loves to receive flowers. They have a way to share a moment without words spoken. Giving someone you love a favourite flower warms the soul. To receive a bouquet or a big floral arrangement really says you are special. What is your favourite flower? Have you sent some lately to a special person in your life?

NANA SAYS WHY WAIT TO HAVE CHILDREN?

Many modern parents are waiting longer to have their children. Careers established, that second big house and the world tour. Then deciding to start children later in life, often discovering fertility issues. Of course there are couples who tried to conceive earlier and had difficulties.Fertility is always a very painful process for those having trouble with conception. New studies are telling us there are increased problems with older parents both male and female. In Vitro conception often looks at having twins which can increase post-partum difficulties with issues like early deliveries, stays in Neonatal Units and sometimes later developmental concerns. There are many situations where everything did go well with a healthy baby or two, of course. It seems disconcerting to me that modern women are being advised to talk to their doctors about the best age to have children. I am older and knew back in 1970 that age 35 was a critical year to finish having children due to the increase in the possibility of special needs children. Regardless of how healthy a woman may be the body is still a 35 year old or a 40 year old or a 45 year old body. Older men also are in the same situation where there are linkages with  having special needs children as well. Fortunately for many couples there are other possibilities with surrogacy mothers helping them to have that much wanted baby. As important as a career path, also factor in the baby path too. Can you do both at a younger age? Definitely! Yes couples can wait, as it is always their choice. The anguish of wanting a child can be overwhelming if taking too long. It is wonderful for any child to be a wanted child. I do feel for those people having difficulty with the process.

DON'T PUT ALL YOUR EGGS IN ONE BASKET

Whoever wrote this quote let's us think because it says a lot. We are told with investments to diversify. Put your money in different markets and plans. Real Estate, stocks, mutual funds etc. For me I think of our daily lives. If you are a workaholic, you are missing the family and interests side of things. So if no one says on their deathbed, I should have spent more time at the office then why do so many think that it makes them special to work longer hours. Everyone's job has some overtime features periodically, but not every day. If paid for 8 hours, what are you proving by working 11. It can go against you if a fellow colleague can complete the job in 8 and you actually take 11 hours. So our life should have "different baskets". Work, home, family, interests, skills, religion, community interests- and the list could go on. Why is it important? For example, if you get laid off a job, does your life end. No! Because you have other baskets to get you through that crisis until you find another job. Family- remember your children have a right and need to find their own way. There is a time that every parent has to let go for the child to grow. So having a family but also remaining a person with your individual basket. If you were to think about your baskets in life, how many would you have? What would you name your baskets? Would they reflect different times in your life? Would they be about your life now? Would a basket be about plans for your future? Retirement? Going back to school?

DENIAL-THAT POWERFUL DEFENSE MECHANISM

Is a wonderful way to avoid the inevitable. In a crisis situation, it can be debilitating, however. Facing a reality in front of us is painful and soul searching. Aging, the critical illness of a loved one, worried a new baby may have special needs, relationship going sour- can all be kept in check by denying there is a problem. Why do people need to deny? Is the pain just too much to face what is happening? Yes and no. It is self-protective. What do you do when someone is in denial? Listen! Support! It is the other person's process. That person must reach the end of the journey when ready and emotionally able. My recent journey with the end of my mother's life was such an example. Each of us saw the situation differently. Denial is a powerful defense mechanism. In my clinical work, recognizing and facilitating a family through a process can take great skill and patience. I sat at a death bed years ago with a daughter and when asking her how her mother looked, she clearly said she would get better. She died that night. She could not see what everyone else knew to be happening. Denial. If someone around you needs to be in denial, be kind, be patient. Ask the relevant questions. What do you think is happening? What is your worst fear? How can I help you? If you know the person well- bring favourite food, flowers, a book. Being there for the person is the best support. If you are struggling with a situation, write me at abdm@rogers.com or put a comment here so we can dialogue about your situation.

A POSTCARD FROM LA FONTANA DI TREVI

Being married to an Italian born Canadian has its advantages. I have had three trips to Italy. Both my girls have visited the country. In 1995, Natasha went on a trip after High School with her friend Ami.
She wrote her grandparents in Westbank BC a beautiful postcard.

" Dear Nana & Grandpa- My friend Ami and I are having a great time in Italy, I love it here. Everything is so different and the scenery is beautiful. I am picking up the language pretty quickly and I understand a lot more. I will tell you everything when I get home. Love Always, Natasha"

One of my favourite memories in Rome for the first time was drinking one of those little bottles of wine with a pannini sandwiches sitting by the Trevi Fountain in 1991. Many movies that include Rome in their story have pictures by the fountain. That sweet little movie- Three Coins in the Fountain was based on the wishes people make when tossing a coin in the fountain. It is such a beautiful place and a must see for anyone who visits Rome. If you could toss a coin what would your wish be?

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.

EAT YOUR VEGETABLES

To maintain a balanced diet, we are told to eat your vegetables and have several portions of fruit daily. A variety of vegetables allows for some leverage in what we eat. Do you like vegetables? My husband loves them so much, he even has them for breakfast!

IN LIKE A LION OUT LIKE A LAMB

Is that wonderful Canadian saying describing March. Welcome to the last month of winter and first week of Spring. Well today it is snowing so came in like a lion. March always has a mix of weather. That's why many people prefer to go south for the children's March Break. I always wonder who coined this phrase- in like a lion out like a lamb or can be in like a lamb and out like a lion! Probably a farmer who wanted to predict when he could begin the Spring cleanup. We know farmers rarely get the credit deserved for their knowledge of things. Of course, unless it is the Farmer's Almanac which is probably a meteorologist writing it now! Weather is a favourite Canadian topic. If you have nothing else to talk about, well we always can talk about the weather. So today's blog is about the weather! I actually do have other things to write and talk about but felt I should be a typical Canadian! So how it the weather where you are today? Lion or Lamb?