LIFE IS LIKE THE CROCUS-TRUE RESILIENCE

Despite cold and even a small ice storm last week the crocuses have popped their colourful heads throughout the garden. The tenacity of spring bulbs amazes. Always a sure sign winter is over. The days can change with good weather, bad weather or another layer of snow but the bulbs continue to forge through the ground and state "we are here!" Do you know some people like that? No matter what happens, just continue to be, to live, to do! Resilience! Nothing will stop me for long. May have a setback! But today is another day to try again. Are you resilient? Do you take a stand that you can't stay down for long?

NANA SAYS THERE ARE RULES

It is often said that grandparents spoil the grandchildren. They are allowed to do anything. Not true. If anything there is so much pressure not to break the rules they bring from their own homes. The interesting point is the fact the grandparents raised the children. Having said that, the grandparents' home is not the regular home so things can be different. The main rules are the same- have a bath, brush your teeth, no fighting, respect, manners- well everyone knows the parent talk. I think our great-great- great- grandparents invented it. Then of course how many editions of Dr. Spock have permeated through the generations. The modern books on parenting are the same old, same old. Grandchildren are a blessing to be enjoyed. So if fun times are different than at home, why not. Why go to the grandparents' home if some fun and play can not occur? Every parent needs a break or someone to watch the kids occasionally. However many grandparents have busy lives too- working, cleaning a big house, looking after the garden, taking care of a sick spouse, pressures to downsize, retirement looming etc. The realization that children grow very quickly and soon the grandparent will be the last person with whom the child wants to spend any time. So when the children come home and "tattle" on the grandparents that they had cookies or drank pop or did something not allowed at home, please check back with the grandparents because maybe they were not really allowed to do it. On the other hand, if they had an extra cookie or two, what's the big deal if they also had healthy food like fruit! Think back to your own childhood, didn't you try to outsmart your own grandparent?

WHAT'S THE ALTERNATIVE? ANSWERS TO COMMON WOES!!

While ironing my outfit for work, it occurred to me that complaints in life can be answered by "What's the Alternative?" One day last week, a male family member was complaining about old age in reference to his family member. My response was what's the alternative- your family member would be dead! So what would you want? My husband is an amazing cook but the kitchen looks like a war zone when he is finished. As the sous chef, it is my job to clean it from one end to the other. Sometimes it is very annoying as I would rather use my spare time differently. However, good food, good company outweighs the annoyance! My little grandchildren visit and love to do crafts. So of course my neat piles of coloured paper, stock paper and other supplies are usually in disarray when they leave. An hour or so of cleanup or reorganizing but what's the alternative- to nag them, don't touch, leave my stuff alone or allowing their creative process! Their visits and overnight sleepovers are part of the family experience! A relationship with them outweighs the mess! Festive family dinners now have a plastic or for this Easter a nice paper tablecloth. If spills happen no problem, the surface doesn't matter! Making alternatives that work for family or social situations help to survive annoying occurrences. At work, I love my quiet time at lunch especially when I sit outside on my special bench watching people go by in the warmer months. It would be more exciting to be downtown, what an experience that would be. But my alternative is small town watching people come and go from the hospital. Sometimes a colleague who likes the same conversation joins me! If one does not like their job, what's the alternative? To be out of work or perhaps time for a home business? Or even retirement! Turning the ideas or thoughts in another direction allow the realization that the alternative may not be what is wanted. For example, I am much neater than my husband, always have been. But many years ago, I decided my house will never be as neat as I want it to be! I would rather have him, than an immaculate home! Tidy, clean but with messy corners!  So as you go through your day with all it can bring which often for human beings include complaints! Wake up and ask "What's the Alternative?" It may surprise everyone that it not what would be needed or wanted!

EASTER'S SIMPLE MESSAGE

The message of Easter. It is simple. To live a good life. Do onto others as you would want them to do onto you. Love Jesus. Pray often.

When God closes a door, he opens a window. I find these quotes get me through all the times not just the good ones. Hope, love and faith. Being thankful- yes thankful! Reaching out to others of other faiths. Happy Easter everyone!

GOOD FRIDAY

The start of the holy weekend with quiet reflection of what Easter means to us. Good Friday is the day Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice for us. Remembering his love of us can keep Christians focused on how to honour our faith regardless of denomination. How are you celebrating the day?

SPRING MANIA

In psychiatric circles, March can bring spring mania. The change of seasons affects us in positive ways but for some the negative can emerge. The time change is not good for every one's mood. Sometimes expectations that with winter over, everything will be rosy does not always occur. It is the same old you! Individuals with bipolar disorders often have a difficult time. If you have friends or family with such concerns be aware. Be supportive. Be helpful. If necessary have the person seek professional help. Having a positive, balanced life is important for everyone.

NANA SAYS EASTER IS A TIME FOR FAMILY

Family time on a long weekend energizes everyone. A good family dinner or two. The Easter egg hunt at home and again at Nana's house is fun for one and all. Depending on the weather, what activities can be had. Indoor board games, a movie or two, sorting seasonal clothes to see what fits or a good walk or bike ride if warm enough to be outside. Those wanting more winter fun, well find a place that still has some snow! Grandparents love to be part of the fun too. So if some babysitting is needed then don't hesitate to ask. The teaching of the Easter message of love, peace, forgiveness and what it means to be Christian. I have some Easter books I put out for the kids. I have some bible story books for year round. Actually good for the adults to visit these important messages too. Time to be together in a quiet way. Nana says the special holidays are a time to be together. Making an effort to celebrate these events build memories for all. Children have a good feeling about family. However, pick the right family events. The number of invites can be smaller to fit your own needs too. So being flexible and flowing with the demands of young families makes a good time for all! The older grandparents can have a nap or two when the babies do!!

TUESDAY-TIME TO GET TO WORK!

Tuesday a day that is probably the most productive day at work. REALLY over the weekend and not so tired, the job is in full swing. New patients, new cases are assessed. Meetings planned!  Any personal news shared, even though I tend not to share too much with work colleagues. Don't know where the information can be shared. On the home front, the garbage is out, bed made and time to post this little vignette! Thought I would try another colour today just for the fun of it. Easter next weekend so time to deliver the girls' Easter stuff so their hands will not be full when they leave with their children after our Easter dinner. The best part of this Tuesday is the fact it is a 4 day work week. Long weekend coming uo! How will your Tuesday go? Any special plans?

SOCIAL MEDIA CREATED A NEW VOCABULARY

As Twitter celebrates a 10 year anniversary today, it makes one think about the words and vocabulary that Social Media has created. A internet search is often referred as- let me google that- even if the browser is not Google. " I taped my dog dancing" and it went viral! Viral used to refer to a kind of infection. Now it means an explosion on the Internet of information or sometimes really stupid videos of ordinary activities. Friends were people you knew in your life. Now everyone can have 100s of friends on Facebook whether they are real friends or not!! People still email and thank heavens as it is a well  intentioned way to keep information more private. Just emailing real close family and friends with your information! Everything does not have to go public. Old pictures can be tagged online even if you want them to be or not. Employers can check what is posted. People have been fired for online information. A new way to be checked! The need to be so politically correct all the time. Unless one is retired then anything can be written! Texting does not refer to text books. It has a short form vocabulary. Too bad because knowing proper grammar and spelling is important too even in this new age. Of course computers with its mouse, keyboard and other names attached brought that vocabulary years ago. Newspapers are online with all the ads attached. Isn't it annoying sometimes when an idea is searched and one must watch the 20 second ad before viewing the information! At least with TV can change the channel or go for a washroom break during the ads!! The question- do we really like all the Social Media stuff? Has it saved us time or created another layer of needing to check and recheck all our stuff?  I am rather neutral on my views of Social Media. I use it and wish blogging and online marketing had been available 40 years ago. Opens up so many opportunities. However, the new layer of work, hum, not so sure. How about you? Does it help, hinder and give you a life?? Any thoughts??

GETTING READY FOR EASTER

Easter that special time for Christians brings a different preparation than Christmas. Not as much hoopla. More religious. Starting today with Palm Sunday- the day Jesus went into Jerusalem. People with palm and olive branches. A wonderful image. Not just chocolate and Easter bunnies!

Although chocolate is good.

Easter lillies with all their symbolism for home and as gifts to family members.

The cross used on many items like cards and even a bookmark! Easter is a good time for reflection about the meaning of Christianity. Trying to revisit the qualities of love, life and forgivenes. Reaching out to others. What do you do for Easter? Any special traditions? For me a quiet Easter dinner this year with just immediate family. It has been a busy and tiring last few months so the less work the better. Besides time to watch those favourite Easter movies like Ben Hur!

FIRST DAY OF SPRING-TIME TO GET OUTSIDE

With Spring, comes a renewal  of walking and bike riding or jogging. People come out of their houses in droves. Unless of course you live on the East Coast where another snow storm is headed! The very word Spring brings a smile to faces. Rebirth of energy! A stroll around the garden reveals more spring bulbs coming out of the earth. Song birds singing! Buds emerging on trees! Even if you do not want to be in a good mood, it starts to happen. Spring that amazing season with hope of good times to come! Checking the closet for colourful and fun clothes! Actually seeing what fits and what does not! Birthdays, a Baptism and special Anniversary are in the next months. Starting with the Easter week of celebrations is a great start. Oh Spring!

ROBIN RED BREAST CHIRPS SPRING IS HERE

Along with spring bulbs popping up in the garden, the chirping Robin is a sure sign of Spring. On my walks to work saw one the other day then 3 yesterday. Getting the paper in the dark this morning, one was singing the robin song. Nature is so methodical. The Robins leave in the Fall and know to return in the Spring. Time to watch out for other song birds return! And songs they have to sing! Do you have pretty little song birds in your area! I wish I had a picture to show everyone. Lots of flower pictures in my stash but no birds!

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY CANADIAN STYLE

The Irish celebrate their day not only in Ireland but around the world. Irish people immigrated throughout the centuries to many far lands. One of them of course was Canada as well the United States. Many multi-generational Canadians like I am have some Irish blood from their ancestors. About three of my great parent family lines originate from Ireland. Locally, there was a St. Patrick's Day parade in Toronto on Sunday March 13. Many bars and pubs across the country will serve green beer. Dinners could include Irish dishes like Irish Stew made mostly with lamb. Although the cook could improvise and use beef. The Irish had a great influence on the Canadian way of life that can be seen from our history. A modern writer, Ken McGoogan has written books about the creation of the nation. he talks about the Celtic influence. His first book - How the Scots invented Canada has been followed by - Celtic Lightning:How the Scots and the Irish created a Canadian Nation. I am currently perusing and reading these volumes. The bottom line is the Scottish and Irish immigrants came to our great nation with values. McGoogan let's the reader know that the five main values of Independence, Democracy, Pluralism, Audacity and Perseverance are fundamental to the Canadian way of life. So celebrating today the Celtic roots of St. Patrick are very Canadian too. Wear some green, have some fun even if you are not Irish. Someone around you will have a little Irish in them!

 Or maybe find a lovely Shamrock plant at your local market! Watch out for that rainbow, there may be a pot of gold at the end! Top o'the morning' to you!

NANA SAYS MOVIE TIME IS QUALITY TIME

March break is always a challenge to working parents. So this Nana took two vacation days to help babysit two grandchildren full days and a sleepover. What to do with a rainy, muddy outdoors day in Ontario? To the movies for the early show and in 3D. The Little Prince was a modern adaptation of a children's classic book. Watching my young son mesmerized by the story was delightful. Earlier, he had stated it would be boring to see a paper person come to life! The movie was a story within a story so had many layers of teaching for children and even adults too! As a child, Saturday was a time to go to the movie theatre in Weston! The old Fox Theatre would have two features and a documentary with the movie ticket. Thinking back it gave my mother time without all of us. My older sibling would be in charge. We walked! No car ride!! For this Nana it was something simple to do. The grandchildren were fighting a cold so needed a quiet activity although they had not been so quiet running around and playing at my house. There are good children's movies. Animation has become a wonderful art form. Just look at the awards' season with all the entries. Of course Nana has VHS tapes and DVDs for home watching. I was able to see the grandchildren experience the movie- Teen Wolf with Michael J. Fox for the first time. It was a favourite of my girls when they were younger! So old classics become new for this generation. Can't wait to have them watch TCM- Turner Classic Movies with me on TV. Oh movies, those wonderful little time savers for exhausted grandparents and parents!

BLANKETS-AN UNIVERSAL MEANING

A blanket can be soft or rough. Handmade or from a factory. Blankets keep us warm, shade us from the sun and can make a tent in the dining room with chairs. A baby is wrapped in a blanket shortly after birth. We make love under blankets or on top!

Any colour and a variety of textures. Crocheting, knitting, sewing- by hand or machine!

Trips to the yarn and quilt store are opportunities to add supplies to a stash.

Christmas blankets or the colours of the Italian flag!

Of course quilts from across Canada or the United States can be reflective of the culture or background of a region. Pictured is  a log cabin quilt- my favourite design. This one seems a little rustic, doesn't it! Quilts can go on a bed or be hung on the wall as art!

For all of us, what is more loving or meaningful then a loved one covering us with a blanket. To keep us warm, to keep us safe! It is such a symbolic gesture- here let me cover you up, let's get those feet under wraps. A blanket is such a symbol of love and family. How many of us have one or two passed down from another generation?

#blankets#quilts#afghans#homemadeblankets#reflectivethoughtsbybarbara#yarntomakeblankets#babyblanketsmadewithlove#blanketskeepuswarm

WHEN YOU HAVE LITTLE IN COMMON

Do you ever find yourself at an event or work or social gathering and realized that you have little in common or interest with those around you? Always important to be polite and friendly but do you ever feel really bored inside! Craving for some conversation with some common ground. Being  a good listener- which I am really helps!! Those who are talking rarely know that the subject has little interest for me.  The things and subjects I love usually bore the crap out of people so I  rarely share what I am doing, writing or reading. Do you know how often I am compared to some one's mother or grandmother or even great-uncle as if what I am doing is so out there and old fashioned? And so boring to them!! As if I do not know how to use a computer, apps, upload and download and talk the geek language of modern times! Heh, what's up? So I prefer not to share! And just continue doing what I have been doing for years! Different strokes for different folks is a good English expression! Last week being Social Work week it was a great time to hang out with my fellow Social Workers which I have lots in common. Being a secondary profession in the hospital it is hard for others to relate to our discipline. Some agencies are all Social Workers so no problem there. Not having to explain why I am thinking or doing what I am doing is so refreshing. Usually I just like to say- I charted my involvement so whoever cares to read my notes can! I have had so many tough cases in my career that I don't need to toot my own horn!! When meeting someone new, I like the person to share what he or she wants to share. I am not an interrogator as some people can be with new people. The old trick of trying to put them in their place. Behind me in life. We all have a place!! One could say it is an age thing! Not really. As a child, I hated gossip and talking about other people with the criticism that comes with it. It got me in trouble as I would point out it was not nice! As an adult , I try to stay away from those kind of people as much as possible. If I know some juicy gossip, well I just keep it to myself. Knowledge is power but being mean and nosey is just being mean and nosey. So you probably can understand why many people can be boring to me. Talk about a book you read, a movie you saw, a novel idea, a craft you are making, something whimsical or fun but please not how much you weigh or that in your culture you have no wrinkles or criticizing every one's food or bad habits. Yes share the photos you take anywhere and everywhere. I love my grandchildren but I do not need to compare with others as every one's grandchild is special.  If someone is sick do they deserve to be sick due to their bad habits? Show some care and compassion! The marathon runner who is so healthy can die at the end of the race! So then who would you blame!! Getting along with people of all ages is my speciality! However, lately I find myself wanting to be with others who have more things in common with me. For example,  Adolph and I have found that interest in food. His blog on food, day trips about food, recipes researched and of course I get to take pictures has added some spice to our lives and of course fun and good eating. When lucky I can find some historical interests out there as the same time as we are having a  food outing. Family time with the children, spouses and grandchildren are always fun- lots in common there! No real competition with us all- just quality family time! Writing- one major project finished with volume 2 and 3 progressing and another subject totally different still in the works. Short genealogical articles are in progress too! Almost finished reading another Giller prize finalist. Two books on how the Celts created Canada to be read very soon- been perused. Where to go for some new photos? Genealogical Conference to attend the beginning of June will be welcomed. Can't wait to be with people who really love, understand and have advanced skills in genealogical research. So anyone out there with common interests let me know. I am waiting for a lengthy conversation with you. A change is as good as a rest so they say but common interests are good too. So what to say and do when you have lots in common- then the sky is limit!

DAY LIGHT SAVINGS-SPRING AHEAD

Having more light at the end of the day is wonderful Having to awaken an hour earlier, not so much. The adjustment for everyone is considerable. I find it takes me more than a week to adjust adequately. March is rather early to change the clocks. It used to be mid-April but a few years ago someone thought it would help with electricity and farmers and whatever! Twice a year- we adjust! Perhaps it is an age thing! Just not as easy to change the internal clock! With the extra hour to get the activities of my day done, I was able to post a last minute item on my blog before heading off to bed to curl up in the book I am reading. Cell phone charging, laundry done, house vacuumed- ready for the week!

SOCIAL WORK ON THE CUTTING EDGE

With all the modern technology, feelings and needs do not change. If anything with cyber bullying, and other difficulties the Internet has brought, the increase in people problems means the skills and knowledge of social workers helping others in social situations will not end. Understanding the profession and what it entails is considerable. If you want more information, simply visit the College in your province. In Ontario, it is the College of Registered Social Workers and Social Service Workers. In order to call oneself a Social Worker by law, one must be registered with the College. The public is protected meaning that the values, standards and expertise must meet the requirements of the College. It has been a great Social Work Week. An honest time to celebrate one of the many valuable professions in Health and Social Services that serve the public. At the very least, acknowledge your friendly Social Worker!

SNOWDROPS-THE REAL SIGN OF SPRING

A date on a calendar tells us when spring officially arrives. But a little tour in one's garden can reveal that the first spring bulbs are peaking their little heads out of the dirt. Snowdrops- yes there is a more scientific name- are the true sign that spring is really around the corner.

                                                        What's in your garden?

SOCIAL WORK- COUNSELLING IS THE PROCESS

The difference between Social Work and other disciplines is the skill and knowledge to go with the process. Yes tasks must be accomplished but listening to the deeper message that a person or family presents makes progress in a case manageable. It is the client's or family's progress that is important not the worker. The process as it unfolds! So being able to ebb and flow with this process takes expertise. Working with other disciplines is often challenging. Their mandate is very different. Respecting those areas of expertise is a must too. Knowing when to advocate and when to listen takes skill again! The setting where the Social Work is practised makes a difference also! In the Social Work field for over 40 years has given me many challenges!

SOCIAL WORK WEEK 2016 IN CANADA

A profession that has been around for over 100 years and even the concept for 100s of years. Champlain hosted such an event of inclusion. Early 1800s in places like York, now called Toronto offered support to new immigrants. My education at the University of Toronto, where Social Work education is now over 100 years old since I celebrated with the Faculty in October 2014 to celebrate the 100th anniversary. Social Work can be found in Child Welfare, Hospitals, Child and Youth Clinics, Family Therapy, many Social Service Agencies that deal with a variety of issues and of course many government services. Health, Mental Heath, Child Abuse, Elder Abuse, Domestic Violence, Families, Individuals, Communities, are just a few of the many areas where Social Workers can be found. Private Practice has become another wonderful opportunity for many. A variety of therapy modalities can be used. My favourite as many know is Narrative Therapy. With children, play, art and music can be conducted by a skilled and knowledgeable Social Worker. Each province in Canada has legislation on how to practice. Social Workers are accountable to the Public. In Ontario, we report to the College of Registered Social Workers and Social Services Workers. Those with a university degree and continued competency activities can use the designation RSW. So this writer can use MSW, RSW after her name. And with pride. It is a good profession, often misunderstood by many- no I do no have a bucket of money under my desk nor am I trying to change the world. Just doing a skilled and knowledgeable job one  patient, one family, one issue at at time with care and compassion!  Here's to my fellow Social Workers coast to coast! Enjoy your week!

NANA SAYS CHILDREN TAKE THINGS LITERALLY

Speaking and explaining things to young children is enjoyable. Recently, Nana was trying to help one of my grandsons understand a school situation. A child with special needs was acting differently. So Nana who had lots of experience in that field at one time began to inform him. "The person is different, so it is important to try to get into his world." My sweet grandson looked at me puzzled and said no Nana, he was born here. The awareness that children watch shows and movies about other worlds and aliens and superheroes came to light. My daughter simply said children can take things literally! I just smiled. The thought occurred to me about how many times when we all talk and mean one thing but it is taken literally so a different meaning occurs! In my life and work, I see and hear deeper meanings of many conversations. However, those around me may not be so deep. Checking in, especially with children to determine if they have actually understood what was meant. Simple words. Simple discussion. Perhaps let the child explain a situation rather than explain for him. With my grandson, I was simply trying to reinforce that people can be different. Lesson learned from a little one, literally!

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY IN CANADA 2016

Not sure if a lot will happen in my day today. As I reflect on what it means to be a woman in modern times,  things have changed since my youth. 1975 was the first Women's Day in my conscienceness. For example, working in health care more female doctors are present and in fields now unlike 40 years ago when I started in Social Work. More men are nurses and accepted for being nurses. Education is available to everyone. No more pulling girls out of school in Grade 3 like what happened to my mother-in-law in Italy in the 1930s to help clean the family house. What was her mother doing? Well maybe some countries still deny an education to a girl.  Even when I was dating my husband there were teenage marriages to older men. However in some groups and cultures it is still happening! Hum! Women in some countries still experience death in childbirth due to unsanitary conditions. Babies still die! Education and health are the areas to promote everywhere. Fight against sexual abuse and domestic violence! Improve the playing field for girls and boys! If we raise girls well and have caring women the world will be a better place. The women become wives and mothers and friends and community workers so all will be a lasting legacy. Mothers can raise amazing sons to become amazing men. They can work and live together with their spouses so they be amazing Fathers too. Supporting Women on this special day supports everyone. A good woman loves the men in her life. So men and boys love the girls and women in your lives. Help to make the world a better place for all of us!

SO WHY NOT!!!!

THE WORK WEEK BEGINS-MONDAY, MONDAY

Mondays are always hard for everyone unless job hunting then there is a jealousy that others have a job and you do not. When I had two lay offs in my career, there were years of going to work on Mondays that I refused to dislike them as I always said to myself " you are lucky to have a job, Barb!" Then one Monday, I said- heh, all these other people are complaining so why do I have to be so cheerful and grateful about Monday? Maybe it is because I am a cheerful and grateful person! Despite it, weekends are better. The down time! Able to have an afternoon siesta! Mondays always feel like there was so much left undone! The promise to keep at stuff each night until fatigue takes over! The best Mondays are vacation Mondays! I do find myself singing the Mamas and the Papas song- Monday, Monday ........ How will your Monday go! For those who are retired, better than most I am sure!

LIFE IS LIKE A BOWL OF COMFORT FOOD

A good lasagna on a Sunday afternoon hits the spot. Times when eating something fresh or fun brings comfort to life. We all have favourite foods that make our day. A large dish of ice cream! French Fries! A steak on the barbecue! The word comfort- a sense of physical well-being; things that make life easy or pleasant; console in grief! Come into my home and make yourself comfortable! That feeling of being at ease! Escaping from the woes of the world to the comfort of our home with our loved ones! Can I make you something to eat or perhaps a warm beverage! Comfort, comfortable, comforting- all words that bring a sense of relaxation! Now for some good comfort food on a Sunday! What brings comfort to you? What is your favourite comfort food?

THE HARM OF GOSSIP

Adults complain about the younger crowd and the gadgets used to spread ill thoughts or bully. Yet gossip has always been around school, workplaces, friends and family groups. It is equally as harmful. We think it is okay to know dirt about celebrities, but is it?  Doesn't everyone deserve some privacy in their lives? My advice- loose lips sink ships! So if you do not want someone to know your business then do not tell them. Trust your closest friends and family. Another piece of advice- if someone tells you something, keep it to yourself. The person can tell a hundred people, but you do not have to tell anyone. In moments of weakness we all share information, sometimes because we need to vent. That venting should not become fodder for gossip. A wife can complain about a spouse. A child about a parent. A workmate about a bad day at work. Should that rant become public gossip? I think not. One can have a difficult marriage for example. But there were moments of love to be remembered if the spouse dies. However is there good gossip? Maybe, so and so had their baby! Guess who got engaged? Just be careful what is shared! Especially if someone shared a secret with you!

NANA SAYS IT'S DIFFICULT TO GET CHILDREN TO WEAR APPROPRIATE CLOTHING

Okay. It is -10 with a wind chill. Everyone is bundled up. Then a teen boy walks by me with his spring jacket pulled down over his bare hands, runnings shoes and no hat. Sound familiear. It made me reflect that times have not changed. I remember my High School classmates doing the same. Too cool to dress for the weather. At least in this day and age, there are hoodies so a quick flip and the head is covered. So if the teenager will not wear appropriate clothing, is it surprising the chances that are taken in youth that often lead to injury and sometimes death. Running shoes slip on ice and bones do break. Hopefully a head is not hurt. I always have extra mitts and scarves in the car for those occasion that they may be needed. Chances with driving fast. Chances with everything. For what reason, to be cool. These risk taking behaviours often do not end. Look at the 30 something that has to go in the back woods country and an avalanche occurs. Was it necessary to go there to risk a life? Are there ways to instill safety measures in our children along with having fun? A good ski run can have some exciting moments too! Respect for others! Helmets, padding and other safety equipment are used in all sports now. If we could only get that teenage boy to dress for the weather!

MARCH-IN LIKE A LION

Winter storm warnings for parts of Canada today. The GTA will get slammed. However, the winter has been better than normal so having the first big storm in March and not November is a blessing. March the anticipated month that brings Spring at the end. It is really a winter month but heh those desperate for Spring live with hope. The winter sports enthusiasts  are lamenting their season is coming to an end. For this blogger, I just keep plugging away at projects, walk to and from work, and take what life has been throwing at me. February saw the conclusion of one writing project. So on to finishing other projects which include major decluttering of corners in the house! Love my little shredder. Put out 6 small bags of shredding in the trash! So March on in life! After we leaped from February! I can hear the lion's roar! The cold is here with winds sounding in the background! How do you see your March? Of course those not acquainted with the saying- if march comes in like a lion then it should go out like a lamb or vice versa. Most of us like it to come in like a lion then it is more optimistic the weather will improve. Canadians do like to talk about the weather, eh!