POST CHRISTMAS BLUES

Christmas brings some fun, some work, stress and lots of change in the daily routine. Then the month is coming to an end and Christmas is a good memory. Eating the remainder of the leftovers or chucking them is the dilemma. Putting away Christmas stuff slowly. My lights outside stay up until Epiphany. The magic has fizzled. The reality of the same old, same old. Is it why people make New Year resolutions to add some sparkle to life? There is still time over the next few weeks to connect with family and friends. Or even months. A January lunch date works!! Maybe some other dates for the next few months to get through the winter. Or can it be used for a time for reflection, energize, planning for what is needed in one's life or to finish those projects in the quiet of winter. Rewatching favourite movies! Or to go to the movies! Of course there will be snow shovelling which is a good outdoor exercise in small quantities. So as the Christmas season winds down, maybe time to take those photos of outdoor lights, store windows and any fanciful item that crosses your path. The reality of the blues does hit however. Normalize it. Recognize it. Accept it. Knowing it is the norm helps us all. So how are you feeling today?
#Christmasblues#reflectionsofChristmas#change#resolutions#planning#energizingforwinterblues#mentalhealth#magicofChristmas#family#friends

THAT CANADIAN WINTER CHILL

So the week between Christmas and New Year is so cold in parts of this country. The GTA is under a cold weather warning with extra shelter beds at the CNE to try to bring the homeless off the streets. It is why we have parkas, hats, scarves and good mitts/gloves and the warmest boots to keep us cozy. Venturing out in the weather means layers! I am still walking to work. Did not freeze my face off!! Not yet anyway. How are you enjoying the winter chill?
#winterchill#coldweather#warmclothes#parkas#mitts#hats#shelters#boots#Canadianwinter

BARS'S GENEALOGY TIDBITS#7-CHRISTMAS TIME FOR INFORMATION

Christmas can be a good time when family is gathered to get some information. Lots of time to talk about family stories and traditions. Why not this 150 year get people's memories of how they celebrated as a child? What they love about the season? Who they celebrated with? Where? Bring some Christmas past Christmas pictures for others to scan, photograph on their cell phones or cameras. Have paper and pens handy. Photograph, video tape, - record those stories anyway you know how or what medium you use  After Christmas write down the menu or be a foodie and photograph the food, who was present at your feast, was there a theme. Is it a first Christmas with some people missing. Remember those people. Again get people's memories! Family stories are good! Genealogy is enriched with those stories. So between courses, do a little genealogy. Merry Christmas everyone!
#genealogy#familystories#recording#memories#photographs#funtimeswithgenealogy#research#interviewingfamily#Christmasmemories#150year#childhoodmemories

LIFE IS LIKE A CANADIAN SANTA CLAUS PARADE

Lots of floats.

Politicians.

Along with ladies, men wearing skirts. Playing Christmas music!

Happy faces! Lots of waving.

A jolly guy in a red suit with a strange form of transportation.
Life with its variety, differences in people, many ways to have fun! The Canadian way eh?
#santaclausparade#floats#santaclaus#bands#winter#clod#smilingfaces#children#knowhowtohavefun#life

WINTER SOLSTICE 2017

Winter Solstice! So the shortest day of the year! It means that starting tomorrow the sun starts to come back to us. Some say Christmas and lights are celebrated at this time to bring some joy to a glummy time of the year. We need light and fun. So get out and enjoy all the Christmas lights on main streets, side streets and other places. Remember that light is needed for mood. So if you do have a mood disorder, get near light. It sure helps. Since winter is really here. Try to find ways to embrace the winter months. Avoiding winter only makes it worse. So walks, skating, sledding, skiing, snowboarding, tubing and other Canadian winter activities can make the time go faster but enjoyable. Meanwhile only a few days until the big guy in the red suit arrives so just lay back and enjoy your home with all the decorations! Call a friend on this winter day. For us we always remember our dear friend Larry who died this day! He will be in our hearts forever no matter how long it has been! Oh winter! Oh solstice!
#wintersolstice#friends#Christmas#winteractivites#fun#christmaslights#family#remembering

NANA SAYS EMBRACE FOR CHRISTMAS AND THE WINTER BREAK

So are your children really wired! Christmas brings out such excitement in children. Last minute school concerts and parties. Family coming and calling. Bringing gifts for under the tree. The stress of it all can also bring some whining and unruly behaviour. So what to do. Give children age appropriate activities to do. Let them help clean- especially their room. Keep the area where company will be tidy. Give them lots of supportive messages. Tell the Christmas story of the real meaning of Christmas. Bring out those books and read the stories to them. Let the grandparents help with those tasks too. Have some ideas but not set in stone for the week off and what can be fun. Remember when creating the magic, be childlike and let go of some stuff! You know what I mean!
#christmasbreak#children'sexcitement#family#grandparents#unrulybehaviour#fun#supportivemessages#children#Christmasstory#thereasonfortheseason

ONE WEEK TO CHRISTMAS-LET THE PARTY BEGIN

School, office and home parties are here. Had the Pot Luck at work. It was a fun time. Made my cheese and cold cut platter with cherry tomatoes, olives and strawberries. Put little Christmas decorations on it.
Hauling in gifts to various people every day so my house is a little less cluttered. Some presents have arrived for under my tree. So festive!
But when it rains it pours. Still no new stove. Buying a new car. Adolph's wound is healing. So not just Christmas but other stuff happening for us.
As with most people that make the magic happen, it can be tiring and stressful. So remember lots of sleep, healthy eating, keep well!

                                               Lots of colour to keep your mood happy!
#christmas#stress#oneweektogotochristmas#busy#presents#fun#christmasplatters#coldcuts#olives#festivetimes#december#whenitrainsitpours

CHRISTMAS IS ABOUT FAMILY

Christmas with family and friends makes it meaningful. Who makes dinner? Whose house to be at for Christmas Eve? Do you fly home or just connect by phone?
We had visitors often at Christmas. My folks spent several ones with us after moving west. My mother-in-law would sleep over to be with us Christmas morning.
Family can be good but also any issues can surface. Some family members always like to create problems no matter what day it may be.
So how to enjoy a good Christmas. Put the issues aside for the New Year. Decide to enjoy- not nuts but just to roll with the day. Kids are over the top so accept it. The whole season is the build up to the day which sometimes is like another day.
Phone calls to loved ones can occur before the big day so make that happen too. Emails and texting has become the norm with lots of communicating.
Call up all the family memories that were good. If missing anyone, put the person in the room. This year we are missing a Dad/Grandpa/Great-Grandpa!
So who in your family is important to you? What memories can you create?
#family#Christmas#celebrations#folks#missingalovedone#ChristmasDay#familyissues

3 WEEKS OR LESS TO CHRISTMAS

The parties and eating has begun. Treats from everyone showing up at work and home. Adolph has gone through two panetones already. Time for some torrone for him.
Hopefully I will have the new stove by Christmas or the turkey will be cooked at one of the girls' houses. The stove works but not the oven!!
Wrapping continues every night. Just the grandchildren stuff to finish. Lots of Christmas movies to see! Of course the favourite for the grandsons is Home Alone! Can't tell you how many times I have seen it.
My favourite Christmas movie is- Love Actually! Also love the original Christmas Carol and It's a Wonderful Life. Oh Charles Dickens- you are the best!
The little ones love Frosty the Snowman.
Music- all the religious Christmas Carols for me. I even try to sing all the verses. Out of key of course!

Oh the stockings are hung by the chimney with care!
#panetone#torrone#Christmas#chimney#stockings#Christmasmusic#wrappingpresents#gettingreadyforChristmas#grandchildren#HomeAlone#It'sawonderfullife#achristmascarol#CharlesDickens

NANA SAYS CHRISTMAS MAGIC TAKES LOTS OF WORK AND ENERGY

The magic of Christmas usually comes from parents and mostly Moms! Yes I know Dads put things together, parent too. But mothers do the lists, most of the shopping, makes sure the social events and dinners are doable. I still hear men at work saying " have you started Christmas shopping yet?"
Magic takes a toll on the workload and energy of parents. So how to short list it even when it is so busy. Trying amongst the normal activities of laundry, lessons and housekeeping to keep it all together.
Letting go of some things during the busy season. Concentrating on what can be fun for all. If out of the house, the kids can not dirty the house. Letting the older generation invite everyone over so the preparations are reduced. Just dress the kids. This Nana does the Christmas meal so makes it easier for the girls, spouses and grandchildren to enjoy the day at home. They will bring some food too but not all the hoopla. Nana has all day to prepare.
Keeping well during the season is hard. Despite loving all the social events, they do bring a germ pool too. So have the items for colds and flu bugs handy at home. Know which clinics are open if needed. Of course the hospital door is open 24/7.
Magic can mean making cookies or a gingerbread house with children. Another layer of work but important for the memories. Or not!
Those wonderful Christmas pictures. If unable to get to a photographer, find a pretty background, some Christmas things and take some pics. Family and friends are more interested in receiving a photo from you then how amazing the picture can be.
Expect that children often have too much Christmas and can be tired and whinny at all the extra stuff- school, home, running around. Again what can you eliminate for awhile!
So let me know how you create the magic! Also feel good that generations of parents are behind you! Call up your childhood memories and what mattered to you! Will the same things matter to your children and family? So use a family tradition and share with the children! Keep it simple!

CHRISTMAS MARKETS- TORONTO 2017

Christmas markets are in so many cities. So Toronto has had one in the Distillery District for several years.

Lots to do both day and night.
Ventured down with my younger daughter and two grandsons.

Visual signs are a hit with everyone. Lots of photos and selfies abounding everywhere.

Walking around and enjoying the fun atmosphere.

The regular stores and boutiques plus lots of outdoor stalls.

Eating is good. The boys had a hot dog and jumbo dog while the ladies had Bratwurst on a bun with sauerkraut. We saved drinks until later when we were indoors- so a super candy cane mocha hot chocolate.

Fortunately for me, I will have another opportunity to go again during the day. Maybe some shopping too!

#Toronto#TorontoChristmasMarket#Christmas#Brandtfoods#Bratwurst#lights#family#grandsons#daughter#outings#lights#funatmosphere#eating#hotdogs#hotchocolate

5 REASONS TO PICK YOURSELF UP EVERY DAY

Sometimes life get tough. It seems that the bottom keeps falling out of the floor. So why keep going?

1. Each day brings a challenge. So grab it and go.

2. Reach out to family. Let their strength help you along. Call up the good memories from your life. Were there lessons your parents gave you? Aunts! Uncles- my was Unc! Look at your family pictures, find the good ones and display.

3. Reach out to friends. If you are a good friend then your friends will respond. Phone, text, facebook. Keeping in touch helps with those down times.

4. Pray. Let God answer some of your requests. Be still. Be quiet and listen. Look around and the answer could be there. Start with peace in your heart.

5. Embrace all the small stuff. Like the first cup of coffee. Watching the sun rise. Remember one step at a time. Music soothes the soul, so find what gives you comfort. Some days we may not want to count our blessings so don't! It is okay to be!

So do you have some other reasons to pick yourself up? Share them!

#pickyourselfup#positivethinking#overcomingdepression#life'simpleduties#friends#family#pray#musicsoothesthesoul#challenges#parents#comfort

DECEMBER- THE TIME FOR REFLECTION AND CELEBRATION

In Canada, we celebrate Christmas December 25th. However, many countries and cultures have different days of the month to celebrate. Learning other Christians ways of honouring the arrival of the Christ child is good. Along with all the hoopla and gift buying try to have some areas of the home with a creche or books on the true meaning of Christmas.
I always have a display on my sideboard in the Family Room with Christmas books and a creche. Of course, many angels.

The items can be touched and rearranged by little hands as needed. This year of course there is the wonderful children's film The Star in theatres. But in everyone's collections there are many Christmas films to watch. So as the season evolves so will my reflections.
#Christmas#creche#jesuschrist#reflections#Canada#traditions#books#christchild#december25#Christmastimeincanada

HELLO DECEMBER-3 WEEKS MORE OR LESS TO CHRISTMAS

If one has delayed starting Christmas shopping, usually December 1 is the wake up call. A fall cold delaying my completion of the in house holiday decorations as rest is needed, my preparations are on track. I just need to resist buying all the baked goodies and chocolates every time it go to a grocery store. A small Panetone for my hubbie as a treat was the only goodie brought into the house so far. Some social events are picking up at work and home. Not overly busy but there will be some fun for this Senior.

Sometimes just hitting a main street anywhere and lovely Christmas images can be found.
#Christmas#3weekstogo#lovelydecorations#December#bakedgoodies#panetone#socialevents

NOVEMBER ENDING-BRACE YOURSELF FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

With lots of Christmas preparations done, the real festive season begins. The lighting of famous trees in town squares- like the Rockefeller tree in New York. Eaton Centre in Toronto has a big tree for photo ops. So get out and see the colours. Reach out to others. Phone, Write. Get in the mood. Support your local churches with attendance, going to their fund raising events or just remember the reason for the season. The sweet new children's film The Star is worth attending. For me to finish the decorating of the house. Not putting everything out as trying to reduce my workload! But the house is festive enough.
#Christmas#moviethestar#festiveseason#December#church#fundraising#newyork#eatoncentre#Toronto#Canada

A BIRTHDAY AMIDST THE CHRISTMAS SEASON

My daughter celebrates her birthday today. It was always my norm not to decorate the house until it was celebrated. I never wanted to undermine her birthday. Although she has been out of the home for years now, I still like to honour her special event.
So in your life, do you try not to overshadow someone else's good time or celebration. Have you been excited about something and someone needs to one up you with their event or story!
Letting each person shine and give them their 15 minutes of fame is important. It is how friendships are made.
So to my daughter it is your day. For the Mom always a special memory. I gave birth to you. Every Mom remembering their birthing experiences.
#birthday#christmas#birthexperience#celebration#specialday#friendships#seasonalfun#birthdaycake

CYBER MONDAY, BLACK FRIDAY, EARLY SALES-WOW CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

Shopping for Christmas has become the meaning of the season. But is it really. Buying gifts for loved ones, friends and colleagues does not have to be a tedious bore. With online shopping and delivery to your door. Early openings of stores to get in and out quickly. Gift cards galore sold everywhere are always easy gifts.
For those of us that like to get people, especially the little kids something they like then more thought can be given.
For me I like to get shopping out of the way so the real meaning of the season can be enjoyed. The music- especially the Carols, the movies, time spent with family and friends. Fitting in time to support the local churches and their Christmas bazaars too is important.
My cards are written and being sent today. I know it is early but someone has to be the one to have the cards arrive early. My two large packages and one little one will be sent from the Post Office today.

There will time to try to visit some Christmas events and places. Even the store windows are so beautifully decorated and need to be appreciated. Meanwhile, finish that Christmas shopping.
#Christmasshopping#Blackfoot#cybermonday#presents#friends#meaningofChristmas#gifts#events#storewindows#Christmascards#music#churches#bazaars

4 WEEKS TO CHRISTMAS

The 25th of November. In another month the big 25th will be here. So the outside lights are done. My artificial tree is up in the family room. Yes to save a layer of work for me I succumbed to an artificial one. Easy- 3 pieces put together and connecting the white lights. Put in some strings of coloured ones. A little skinny but I will become accustomed to it.
Big cash in day at Shoppers Drug Mart. $170.-00 worth of free stuff so all the little gifts for colleagues, service people and misc are done. My girls and families are the beneficiary of some items too.
So the Santa's workshop in my bedroom is becoming more presentable for me. Lots of presents wrapped.
I will mail off the cards and packages ready now for 2 weeks.
Less social events this year so will focus on what I can do for me.
One outing with my blogger daughter planned to the Distillery District in December. Other than Christmas dinner no parties or get togethers at my house. So lots of Christmas music and movies will be in the works. Maybe some grandchildren sleepovers will be in the works.
Little by little the season is pulling together. After my oldest daughter's little birthday celebration the other decorations will be pulled out for the season.
Christmas is fun but lots of work too. Maybe I am getting too old for this stuff.
#Christmas#Christmasshopping#ShoppersDrugMart#presents#artificialChristmastree#presents#SantaClaus#parties#socialevents#DistilleryDistrict#Christmasdinner##family

AND THE GILLER PRIZE WINNER IS....

The Canadian book writers, the publishers and the reading public. Being on the shortlist is huge for all the authors. As a  Canadian reader, I have bought the short wait list books for the last several years. Honestly I try to read them all throughout the year. Sometimes they become my summer reading. Buying and promoting Canadian books one purchase at a time is good for the authors and the country.
Oh yeah, the winner this year is Michael Redhill- Bellevue Square. Try to check it out and the other books.
#gillerprize#mindsofwinter#intransit#IamaTruck#shortlist#reading#Canadian#Bellevuesquare#sonofatrickster#publishers

5 WEEKS OR LESS TO A CANADIAN CHRISTMAS

Lights dragged up and ready to string outside. Wrapped some of the misc Christmas presents. The out of town parcels are almost finished. One or two little things to add. Waiting for the lists from my girls for the grandkids. But some items were bought a long time ago and part of the 150 celebrations for Canada. Plugging away at Christmas preparations slowly. Some big items are out but waiting until the end of November to do home decorating. This year probably just the big items. Little hands like to rearrange everything so things they can touch.
Social events are minimal this year. Not going to the company dinner/dance. A local club is not having a Christmas event. One outing planned with one of the daughters.
I was able to watch the Toronto Santa Claus parade on TV Sunday November 19 with the grandchildren. A Toronto tradition. Bright and colourful. They liked the floats and some of the marching bands coming from many other locations. The Western Marching Band was a reminder their parents went to Western.
I am glad I go about the preparations slowly. The energy level for running around is just not there anymore. How are your preparations going?
#Chirstmaspreparations#TorontoSantaClausParade#gifts#decorations#daughters#grandchildren#energylevel#gifts

6 WEEEKS OR LESS TO CHRISTMAS- A COUNTDOWN

Okay. I am a Christmas groupie. I like to start early. Make a list in August. Buy little sale items year round. I learnt from my mother who had to buy for lots of people.
My List is smaller. Mostly big stuff for kids and grandkids. Little items for others like work colleagues, thank yous to service people. Of course my husband says don't buy him anything. Not happening. Already purchased a ugly Christmas sweatshirt for him.
So everyone has their own system. I like to get the cards, packages ready to be mailed end of November. So they are done and waiting for the date to be sent.
Due to reducing my work load, I actually bought an artificial tree this year. Hard on me to do it alone to buying a fresh tree and bring home and put it up. I bought a nice planter with real branches for outside. If I need the smell of evergreen trees I can cut some branches from my own trees throughout my property.
So week 6 or actually 5 1/2 is coming along nicely. Lots of little things bought. The girls are coming up with their lists for their families.
My outdoor lights will go up within the next week. I like to wait until after Remembrance Day to do that one. However with some babysitting, the lights are delayed a little. Besides. get real. My display is quite simple- little Christmas trees by the door, some strings flung along branches and some candy can lights hanging. Voila! No awards or neighbours stopping to gawk at my display.
I will decorate with only big items in the house. Little grandchildren like to touch everything. So no breakables and touchable items. If I want them to enjoy my home, I must make it enjoyable!

How are your Christmas plans going?
#Christmas#countdown#shopping#artificialtree#outdoorplanter#outdoorlights#family#Christmascards

NANA SAYS HOW TO SUPPORT FRIENDS WITH A SICK CHILD

Every parent's worse nightmare is to have a critical diagnosis for his or her child. Doctors, appointments and in the GTA- Hospital for Sick Children.
If other children, the disruption in normal family life. So what can you do as a friend.
Be a listening ear. If older children have lessons or sports, be available with car pooling if possible. have those children for a play date or even a sleepover. Of course, giving a meal. I know there is takeout, order online etc. But sometimes just a ready made hot or cold meal good to go works too. Or an invite to your home for a night of companionship.
Also take a check of your feelings. Sometimes wanting to avoid those parents, can be part of the picture. Too close to home. It is not catching.
Also if you have information then share it.
For parents of critically ill children, Employment Insurance has the PCIC- Parents of Critical Ill Child benefit. It is normal EI but does give some income if parents need to be away from work.
Compassionate Care Benefit for up to 26 weeks for family members could be used as well. The same EI but some income.
Know the laws around absence from work and guarantee of the job for parents.
Any family member being ill takes a toll on everyone but children are too close to our hearts. As a trained and experienced Social Worker if you have private questions or want to share information please do. Parents need lots of support. This is a huge topic so I will revisit as more concerns come my way.
#children#illness#hosptitalforsickchildren#helping#sharing#familylife#compassionatecarebenefits#pcicbenefit#parents

5 REASONS TO HAVE A SENSE OF HUMOUR

1. Life dishes us lots of stuff so finding humour everywhere helps to get us through the day.

2. Sick and dying people can use a good joke or story with some levity.

3. Laughing brings out the tension in the body and helps with chemical release of toxins. So laugh.

4. Humour lets us stop from hurting others. For example, little kids can make messes and do things that drive us crazy. But taking a step back and seeing the joy in the moment with the ability to laugh is good for all. Some of the things kids do are really funny!

5. People that have a sense of humour, not negative sarcasm however, are a lot easier to be around. Humour can help keep us happy. Find happy moments. Even laugh at ourselves.

So it's okay to horse around! Get going! Have some fun!
#fun#senseofhumour#jokes#funnystories#stayingsane#children#happiness

OH THAT EXPRESSION- GET STUFFED

The English language can be very flat or very colourful. Without the use of swear words, one can tell someone to leave them alone. Go away. Or just get stuffed!
The question is- stuffed with what. We Canadians love our stuffed turkey. We love some pastries stuffed with cream. A good donut for example. A Boston Cream. Although, Boston is an American city! Or a cream puff!
I guess stuffing keeps one's mouth shut. So not wanting to hear what someone is pontificating, the expression keeps them away.
So do you have your own way of telling someone to stop talking?
#getstuffed#expressions#Englishlanguage#Canadian

REMEMBERING THE CANADIANS AT THE BATTLE OF PASSCHENDAELE

November 10 1917 saw a tremendous battle in Belgium during the First World War. Canadain at Passchendaele. Paul Gross produced a movie about this significant event in Canadian history. 12000 war dead are buried nearby. It is close to the location where McCrae wrote the poem- In Flanders Field. Today in Belgium dignitaries, citizens and many Canadian citizens and Veterans are attending services there. Remembering all that has been done for us brings home today's realities. The descendants of the brave men who fought can take pride in knowing their family history.
#worldwarone#Passchendaele#soldiers#Canada#Belgium#Flandersfield#bravery#wardead#cemeteries#people

NANA SAYS HOW TO DEAL WITH NEGATIVE PRETEEN AND TEEN ATTITUDE

Doing your best as a parent and greeted with grunts, negative facial expressions and "I hate you" wears thin for the best of parents.
It is bad enough to have sibling fighting in the home.
With busy work schedules and demands on families it is important to try to find some quality time amongst all the angst.
I remember the teen years- horrible. So much wasted time with so much negativity. So is it just a rite of passage.
One technique that works is creative ignoring. If you greet your child every day with a Good Morning and get a grunt or nothing. Then stop. Ignore the child.
Write out the rules. Write out the chores. If the child starts to argue point to the written.
Trust me eventually the child will need to talk.
The gadgets. Yes it is okay to have limits on the use. Not in bed. Not after a certain hour at night. Yes as the parent you can put controls.
Let your children know you love them. And yes you are the parent. It is your job to set limits, rules, keep your children safe, feed them, clothe them and you do love them.
When my children questioned my rules, I simply said. When I was a child, I had to put up with my parents' rules. Now I am the parent so it is my turn to make the rules. One day you will be the parent and it will be your turn.
Catch them being good and praise. Hugs, Kisses. Smiles- even when you want to grit your teeth.
If your children are out of control, rein them in. Set clear consistent boundaries. You are a parent, not your child's best friend. If it is done with love, need for safety, peace in the family, you can not go wrong. As a surviving parent of preteens and teenagers, they come back to you. Love prevails.

WAR CEMETERIES- REFLECTIONS OF A VISIT TO CASSINO ITALY

Visiting a war cemetery can be very poignant. Starting in Sicily in September 1943, the Allied Forces began their campaign to liberate Italy. Some of the most aggressive major battles occurred in the Cassino area to try to take Monte Cassino. The spring of 1944 and especially May was significant. My husband comes from this area. His mother often told stories of this time and how scary it was. The town of Cassino was completely demolished, needing to be rebuilt after the war. So it was important to visit this very large cemetery in the region.

Near the town is the British Commonwealth Cemetery. Called the English cemetery as there are Polish and German ones in the area.

There are many graves and also names of those without graves.

For me that visit in August 1991 brought home the realization of the sacrifice of life.

More than 40% are Canadian. So going up and down the rows to honour my fallen Canadians was a memorable event in my life.

All areas of Canada represented.

Notice the Maple Leaves.

Each grave beautifully kept by the local community.

Monte Cassino Monastery visible in the background.

The name Parks. No relation to us.

Young men.

Significant writing on the entrance.

A place to stop and reflect and honour.

Another view.
By visiting a war cemetery, it reminds all of us to remember. For those with people in the Polish or German cemetery, I do have some pictures I could scan and send you.
Email me at abdm@rogers.com.
Photos- copyright 2017- by Barbara.
#Cassino#Italy#Canadian#BritishCommonwealthCemetery#Italiancampaign#MonteCassino#WorldWarTwo#graves#Canada#AlliedForces#reflections#remembrance#1944#May1944#Remembrance's

FIVE REASONS TO WEAR YOUR POPPY

Leading up to Remembrance Day, the red poppies come out. So why wear one.

1. A reminder of the  John McCrae poem- in Flanders Fields the poppies blow. A Canadian serving in World War One, he wrote it May 3, 1915. He died in the war but his poem has lived in the hearts of this country.

2. The red poppy can be seen from a distance. Look at a crowd wearing them. Red matches all colours.

3. A simple way to stop and reflect on past, present and the future military campaigns.

4. The money raised supports the Legions and Veterans.

5. We honour our own family members that served. We honour others who served. We honour those that are serving our country now.

Remembering military and peacekeeping missions does not mean that anyone condones conflicts. But in order to have a peaceful nation it is important to remember, honour and work towards solutions for a peaceful world.

So wear the poppy for whatever reason that has meaning to you!
#johnmcrae#redpoppy#remembranceday#november11th#canadians#canada#legions#reflection#familymembers#peacekeepingmissions#flandersfields

REMEBRANCE DAY CEREMONIES

November 11th falls on a Saturday. In our town there is always a Remembrance Day celebration the Sunday before the real day. So November 5, a little early will be the day we will honour our past and currently serving Armed Forces. I have been going to the local one for many years now. Rain, cold and nice days. Does not matter I am there. So are you going to your local ceremonies for our troops?

Will you have your special wreath for a family member or local group? The wreaths make such a lovely display.

NOVEMBER-THE MONTH TO ORGANIZE FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

Planning. Organizing. Doing. November marks the beginning or the ongoing process of Christmas readiness. When are the local parades? What people to shop for presents? Many women do this year round. Finding sales and good buys. Market trips may find some fun items for family and friends. Regular themes- like Olympic Mitts, new books, special entertainment outings- those tickets for the New Year.
So what has this Senior done. Written my letters to the troops and printed them. Written my family Christmas newsletter. My Christmas duo tang folder has been organized since August!
In all fairness, this has been  my routine for the last several decades.
When my children were little and I missed getting them that special Christmas gift because I left it too late it was a wake up call to start early. Instead of Strawberry Shortcake I had to settle for Blueberry Muffin doll. So I learned to get their ideas early. Now it is not a problem because I am just Nana so not responsible for the important gifts.
However, I enjoy the connection with family and friends far and wide.
I will be posting my organizational tips and projects completed for this year's season.
Hope you will enjoy them and share your ideas with me too!

If lucky a little Elf to help!
#organization#festiveseason#planning#regularthemes#parades#familyfun#correspondence#Christmas#Christmasgifts#SantaClaus#Senior#lists#organizationalbinder

NOVEMBER BRINGS CHANGE AND REMEMBRANCE

The time changes back! The days are shorter! In some parts of the country snow has arrived. It is the busy month before the festive season. Organizing and getting stuff done let's Christmas be more enjoyable.
It is also the month of Remembrance. Wear your poppy with hope and gratitude for all this country offers!
Planting those spring bulbs! Never too late to finish the garden cleanup! 5 more Mondays of yard waste collection.
Those Santa Claus parades start to happen in many communities.
In our family, birthdays make it joyous. A daughter, a grandchild and a brother! Lots of time for celebrations.

Soon all the trees will be bare. So the brown on brown is not too appealing. Oh November! A short month but a fun one.
#november#christmaspreparations#birthdays#familybirthdays#festiveseason#santaclausparades#Remembrance#RemembranceDay#gratitude#fun#organization#gardencleanup

HALLOWEEN-THE LAST DAY OF OCTOBER

One wishes every month ended with so much fun. Halloween- next to Christmas, the favourite event for children and lots of adults too. Excuse to eat lots of candy and dress up in a costume.
Sometimes it marks the end of Indian Summer! We did have some warm days and now the cooler weather is arriving. Gardens are almost put to rest. Lots of leaf raking to do as the trees shed their foliage! A good month to finish projects and then to start new ones. For me- two photo projects done. One for friends and another for a family member! Bags of yard waste to the curb! The garage ready for the car when the winter weather starts so less work in cleaning it off  every morning! Of course, Christmas prep is full swing. Two major dinners- Thanksgiving and a friends' dinner party! And any left over projects that will continue into November! A knitted blanket and quilted throw are in the works. Of course, November brings some special birthday celebrations in our family. So how was your October? Did you get stuff done? Are you continuing with your regular routines or planning new ones? Share your projects with me.!
#October#Halloween#projects#photos#albums#garden cleanup#leaves#christmasprep#fun#friends#family

5 REASONS TO ENJOY HALLOWEEN

On Halloween Eve, are you ready for the trick and treaters. How to enjoy the day.

1. It is fun . People decorated their lawns, their doors and the pumpkin farmers are rewarded for their hard work.

2. You get to shell out candies and stuff to the children in your neighbourhood. I give cans of pop and candies. For years I have been known as the " pop lady"!

3. People are happy at work. Some come dressed in costumes. Others just smile at those who are dressed.

4. Buying all those candies and stuff helps the Canadian economy. Just do an Internet search to determine how much is actually spent. Then watch for the sales and you can use the little chocolate bars at Christmas too.

5. It is just a good reason to get out of the normal activities. So dress up, get ready for the day and well the night. Let's hope it is good weather for the little ones and the big ones taking their kids out. Lots of outdoor lights for them to see their way.

Happy Halloween Eve!
#halloween#pumpkins#fun#whatareyouwearing#chocolatebars#children#candies

KNOWING WHEN TO SHARE AND NOT

Keeping parts of life separate can take energy. Work life is separate from home life and privacy is always an important aspect. God forbid you do not say yes to everything! If no then what's up your butt!
Know who you can trust when sharing information. The lunch table with 20 people is probably not the best place. Do you really want everyone to know your business? And at work! If you have an issue, remember people will want to get in the mix and offer advice or belittle your concern. Do you really need that? No! Be like a pickle tray with separate components!
#sharing#privacy#separatingaspectsofyourlife#trust#energy#worklife#homelife#lunchtable

FINDING A SPOT FOR CONTEMPLATION OR QUIET SOLITUDE

Belonging to a family, work, a social group is good. But there are times to withdraw and contemplate life or what to do next. A nice bench in a park or trail or city street can bring a good location to think about things.
The bench! Sort of a blank canvas. So when you look at the picture what do you see? What do you think?  Would you sit there and watch the world go by? What are your thoughts?
#thoughts#contemplation#solitude#thinking

#61 BARB'S REFLECTIVE 150- GORD DOWNIE

Canadian icons are important to us. Gord Downie, front man for the Tragically Hip- a wonderful Canadian group- died last week.
Canadians coast to coast are mourning his death at age 53. So buy some music, honour him by enjoying the songs. Remember his family and friends.
R.I.P. Gord.
#gorddownie#tragicllyhip#canadianmusic#icon#canada

NANA SAYS BRACE YOURSELF FOR CHILDREN'S ILLNESSES

As a grandparent, I always get the flu shot to try to deter any illnesses coming from me. So parents think about it for yourselves too.
Do you have backup as parents when children get sick? Day cares have strict rules on when children can return after fevers, colds etc. Do you save some vacation or personal days for such occurrences?
Grandparents are good backup as needed. Depending on the age of the child, we can be helpful. The toddlers are more demanding so would not be left with Grandpa!
What about those remedies? Cough syrup, tyelenol syrup, drops for pink eye, doctor's phone numbers, walk in clinics- well you know the drill. Having your own little home pharmacy for both child and adult helps when illness starts to occur.
If one parent needs to stay home, do you have your car pools arranged. You help others and they help you.
Lessons need to occur. If needed can you take your sick child to work for short periods?
Fall/Winter are the heavy duty times for illness. So prevention is the best cure! Getting rest, eating healthy and taking vitamins may help!
What are your startegies!
#children'sillnesses#flushot#prevention#sleep#vitamins#howtosurvivechildren'sillnesses#walkinclinics#howtoarrangebackup#remedies#homepharmacy#stayinghealthy

5 REASONS TO DO FALL CLEANING

Spring and Fall bring out the cleaning bug in many of us.

1. You pull everything out and look at what you want to keep, toss, sell or give away.

Then you have a room that is neat and organized.

This is my craft room. All the projects in little bags to grab and work on them. Now neatly organized. The table is for my projects as well as a space for the grandchildren to do crafts. The bed is the overflow guest room. The grandchildren can sleep there as well as use it for naps when they are at the house.

2. Cleaning the clothes closets may reveal items in the back that have not been worn often. So bring them out to wear, or donate. Coats to the cleaners. Jackets washed. Access the mitts, gloves, scarves and hats for winter wear. Are the boots good for another season?

3. The garage. Mine becomes a mess magnet with all the summer gardening. Reorganizing with the items removed from the garden and neatly placed with themes- the garden tools in one spot, items for the spring garage sale, the hanging plant pots, etc. My winter shovels and salt are near the door of the garage. The space in the middle allows for the car to be parked over the winter. No scraping of ice. It stays clean and easy to use.

4. The closets and cupboards throughout the house get a cleaning too. One at a time when in the mood. Good for a rainy day. Too many pots and pans. Which ones are old, rusty or just too dented! Purge.

5. And the gift cupboard. All those sale items bought just in case. What can be used for Christmas gifts? Surprizing how much gets purchased over the year. Find those sweet new items a new home. Yes my Christmas organizer plastic tower is nicely organized. I reviewed my gift bags, paper and cards knowing I am well stocked and ready for the Christmas season.

So Fall cleaning let us slide into the Christmas preparations and season. I am not sure the Recycling crew will appreciate all my stuff on the curb but my house and garage sure feel cleaner.
How about you? How is your Fall cleaning going?
#fallcleaning#purgingstuff#cupboards#closets#whyfallcleaningis goodforus#tipsoncleaning#cleaning outthegarage#cleaningtheclothescloset#cleaningthecraftroom#acleanhouse

PUMPKINS-HOW CANADIAN, EH!

October without pumpkins would be unthinkable. They are everywhere. To be carved. To have the seeds scooped to roast and eat. Use the flesh for pies and other baking. Used in themes for Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Baskets at markets and farms. Even pumpkin competitions to determine who grew the biggest one.
The colour orange is very therapeutic and healing. Although there are variations of pumpkins now.
Two big pumpkins and 3 small ones are in my front area.My favourite pumpkin item of course are the pies. What do you love about pumpkins?
#pumpkins#fall#october#pumpkin pies#markets#farms#baking#carvedpumpkins#goodeating#halloween#Thanksgiving

KINDNESS CAN NOT BE TAUGHT

Sometimes the acorn does not fall far from the tree. In our family system we have had many generous and kind people. Is it taught? Is it genetic?
This week one of our wonderful grandchildren did a kind act.
Sophia was at an regional cross country race. Her school had aspirations of doing well. During her Grade 7 category, she was running well. Part way through the race, a little girl stumbled smashing her face. Sophia stopped to help her so did not finish the race. She was disappointed she did not finish. The rest of us are amazed at her kindness and good heart. She did the right thing. She helped someone else. Her school recognized her.
If we worry sometimes how our children or grandchildren will do in life, an ordinary day becomes a teaching moment for all of us!
#kindness#learning#family#winning#life'slessons#helping

NANA SAYS GIVE CHILDREN STRONG ROOTS TO GROW

Family is a good place to start in giving children strong roots. If lucky, there is more than one generation to be there for the little ones. Having grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, family friends that are like real family give children a village where they can grow. Being loved by many people is so emotionally important. To be accepted and appreciated for no reason other than they are in your life is the best. Regular dinners, events, get togethers keep the joy alive. Even being welcoming to your children's friends is good for those children too.
#family#village#grandchildren#grandparents#children#roots#emotionalstability

THE SOUNDS OF A CANADIAN FALL

As the leaves fall off the trees, the roads, lawns and sidewalks can be filled with them. Walking bring a crunchy sound under our feet. It is an endearing sound. For the birds that are still making their way south, the flocks that can be seen on hydro lines and their sound remind us they are leaving for warmer climates. Fall with the clouds that are puffy. The sunrises and sunsets against the coloured trees are so beautiful. The wind has a different howl too. Fall has its unique sounds. What do you hear? What do you like? What don't you like?
#Canadian##fall#leaves#flocks#birds#trees#clouds