Several weeks ago, I raced out of here one morning, anxious to have enough time to warm the car up and clean it off before I left to go pick up my father. We had received some heavy, wet snow that had covered everything. When the snow ended, freezing rain started up. There was a layer of snow on the car, along with some ice that had built up. Thankfully, I was able to clean off the car without too much effort. As I drove along, I discovered that the freezing rain was staying on the window, so I had to keep the defroster on high to try and keep it clean. The road was slippery in some places, but I didn't actually find it all that bad for driving, at least at that point. I picked my dad up to take him to dialysis, something I need to do 3 days a week, rain or shine, sleet or snow. There have been a few trips when the driving was pretty scary, esp. with all of the other traffic, but so far we've managed. Thankfully we don't have to travel too far.
Dialysis is a life saving treatment for patients whose kidneys have failed and no longer clean off the impurities & waste from the human body. It is a treatment that needs to be done regularly, and cannot be missed. It is something that once started, will continue for the rest of the person's life. In some cases, if the person is younger and a good candidate, transplant surgery can be an option. The only thing with this is that they need to find another good kidney that is a match. In most cases it is a close family member who donates one of their kidney's.. Anti-rejection medication has to be taken for the rest of the person's life, and hopefully they are able to handle it all and live normally. Our body has two kidneys, so we can actually survive with just one good functioning kidney. The problem is when we develop kidney disease and they end up quitting, or the level of function is reduced so much that it is not filtering the waste from our body. If our kidneys aren't functioning enough to get rid of the waste, then we either have to find something that will clean the waste, or be prepared to become quite sick and eventually having all of our organ's shutting down.
Dialysis is a huge commitment on the patient, and on the person who ends up driving them in the case of either younger children, or elderly patients. Some are fortunate enough to be able to drive themselves after a treatment, but because there is a higher percentage of people who are elderly ones, they often don't drive anymore and are in need of regular transportation. Treatment usually means going three times a week, for a period of approx. 3-4 hours, plus the time that is involved in hooking them up and taking them off of the treatment.
There are several different types of dialysis treatment, and the most common one used is done at the hospital or a special clinic which is hemodialysis. There are however a few treatment types that can be done at home and known as peritoneal dialysis. All are time consuming, and require commitment. About 90 percent of dialysis patients receive hemodialysis, in which the blood is circulated outside the body and cleaned inside a machine before returning to the patient.
My dad is going for the hemodialysis at the hospital, and needs to be driven to the hospital & picked up, 3 days a week. Thankfully the hospital in our town has a dialysis unit, which was started up approx. 3 or 4 years ago. If it didn't we would have to make the drive to another hospital approx. 1 hour's drive away. We did that for the first couple of months after he started treatment 2 ½ years ago, and it was really hard having to drive that distance, fill in the time waiting, and then driving back home thro' rush hour traffic, and miserable weather as we started just before winter. It was a long day for us both, and my dad found the added time in the car traveling, along with the stress of dealing with the traffic and weather conditions was just too much.
Before treatment can start they have to make several incisions in the chest & neck area, and this serves as the access area, going into an artery & a vein. Another way is to start an access place in the arm where an artery & vein are joined and allowed several months for it to heal before it can be used. This required some surgical time and tests at another hospital. Because of the type of access my dad has, he must go back down there every so often to get the line in his chest changed. The type of line that he has in his chest has a higher risk of infection, but is the easiest to access, and the least painful once it's been put in. It was the type that he chose, and has refused to have the one done in the arm. Perhaps because of his age since he's 80 years old, and he figures if he has to go for dialysis, then he's going to do it the most comfortable way he can.
One of the things with hemodialysis is the fact that the blood pressure can be affected by the treatment esp. if the patient has problems with their pressure. It's also an evasive treatment with the blood, and can be very tiring for the patient.
It is not a cure, but only a treatment. The only thing that can end the treatment, is a kidney transplant, and only if the body does not reject it. Patients must learn to watch their diets with great care, and their various levels will need to be monitored regularly.
The leading causes of end-stage renal (kidney) disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. The only way to avoid ending up with renal/kidney failure, is to start taking care of your kidneys when you are younger, and watching your diet.
If your kidneys are normal, they don't need special care. A healthy, balanced diet and enough water to quench thirst are adequate to keep kidneys working fine. Fad diets, such as those very high in protein, however, can hurt your kidneys. Drinking very little water, or an overabundance of water (more than 8 quarts a day), may also damage these organs.
Other than illnesses, the real kidney killers are drugs--they must pass through the kidney to be filtered out of the bloodstream. Some antibiotics, anesthesia medications, and antipsychotic drugs may damage kidneys. Even over-the-counter painkillers, if taken in large doses, may lead to kidney failure. In the same way, even common household chemicals can also harm your kidneys if ingested of inhaled so be careful.
For now, my dad seems to be doing well on dialysis, and we try to plan a lot of the days around his treatments and then do the other things that he needs to do. Thankfully dialysis is available as a life saving treatment for all who need it.
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Winter Virus
It's been one of those weeks. The flu seems to be running rampant all thro' the schools and there are so many kids off sick. At the moment, one of those is my youngest daughter. She's had a fever on and off all week long, along with swollen glands and an upset stomach. It's been 5 days now. From what I here this is not unusual from what a lot of the students are coming down with at school.
This morning I woke up with some of the same symptoms, and it was all I could do to crawl out of bed. I just felt so sick. To top that off, I woke with a terrible cramp or charlie-horse in the calf of my leg. Even now many hours later it is still quite painful. Thankfully my hubby was here and able to take care of a few of my responsibilities and I was able to crawl shivering, back under the bed covers and sleep till noon. Both of my dogs curled up beside me and helped keep me warmed. I joined my daughter on the couch for the afternoon, and haven't been able to get anything done around here. I sure hope that this is one of those 24 hour, passing flu's at least with me. I just have too much going on that needs to be done, and company coming on Saturday. Right now, I'm going to crawl back into bed. Hope no one else comes down with this nasty virus! It's not very nice at all.
This morning I woke up with some of the same symptoms, and it was all I could do to crawl out of bed. I just felt so sick. To top that off, I woke with a terrible cramp or charlie-horse in the calf of my leg. Even now many hours later it is still quite painful. Thankfully my hubby was here and able to take care of a few of my responsibilities and I was able to crawl shivering, back under the bed covers and sleep till noon. Both of my dogs curled up beside me and helped keep me warmed. I joined my daughter on the couch for the afternoon, and haven't been able to get anything done around here. I sure hope that this is one of those 24 hour, passing flu's at least with me. I just have too much going on that needs to be done, and company coming on Saturday. Right now, I'm going to crawl back into bed. Hope no one else comes down with this nasty virus! It's not very nice at all.
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Butterfly
If anyone is interested in reading some fun facts about butterflies, check out the following sites.
http://www.thebutterflysite.com/facts.shtml#funfacts
http://www.virtualmuseum.ca/Exhibitions/Butterflies/english/faq/index.html
http://members.aol.com/YESbutrfly/facts.html
I really love the beauty of a butterfly, and the many colours that they seem to come in. I love the way a butterfly comes to life from the caterpillar stage, to the cocoon that hibernates for a time, then an amazing, beautiful butterfly eventually comes out of it's cocoon, and after it's wings dry, it soars off in flight and into it's own. Free at last to show off it's delicate, and intricate beauty, and to display it's irridescent colours, and amazing abilities. Did you know they have special taste buds in their feet, or that they like to feed from rotting fruit, nectar from flowers, fruit juices, and other things. If you've never been to a Buttefly Conservatory, I would suggest you check one out. My favorite one is the one in Niagara Falls. It was amazing to walk thro' there and see so many different varieties of butterflies & moths, and to see them eating and flying about.
I love them, and look to find various things with butterfly's on them!
Friday, February 24, 2006
Great Writing Site
For anyone interested in the exercise of writing, sharing your stories or poems, having fun writing and getting to know some new people, please check this site out.
Gather is a great community of people who are interested in writing.
http://www.gather.com/index.jsp
Gather is a great community of people who are interested in writing.
http://www.gather.com/index.jsp
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Our New Pup
I can't believe how much time has passed by since the holidays. It's already almost the middle of February and I haven't even shared anything about our new pup. In December we decided to start checking around for another dog. We were finally able to accept another one into our home after the loss of our beloved Casey. I did a lot of checking around, both for pups and adult dogs. My husband had decided he only wanted another Sheltie, and it had to be the same colour as Casey had been and oversized...not the typical small size Sheltie. He had also specified that he wanted another male, but at least was willing to be flexible on that one. Good thing too, as the dog that we happened to find was a female, that met all of his criteria, and was already 7 months old. The breeder was looking for a home for her, because she got too big for the standard sizes, and was not able to be bred or put into the show ring. We met with her and checked out the dog and decided we liked her. Just before we went to see her we were informed that she had been de-barked. Not something I would ever submit any dog to, but what is done is done, and we've been told that it really doesn't do any harm to the dog. That of course was one more concern for my husband, as he wanted to make sure the dog could bark. Turn's out there was never any fear of that. We went to see her once more in her home environment, and at this point found out she could indeed bark, and that it was just a softer pitch of sound rather than the sharp pitch it would normally be. While we found her to be a little timid & shy, she seemed to be a nice dog, so we decided to bring her home. Once we put her in the van, she curled up with my daughter and seemed to settle down right away. It was an hour's drive home, and she just sat there looking around, and seemed quite calm in the van.
Once home was another story. She was quite timid and just kept hiding and running away from us all, but was certainly happy to see our other dog. It didn't take long till she warmed up to me, probably because her first human mom was a single lady. We've had her now for about a month and a half now. She loves to bounce around and play with both Honey & Greta. Greta likes to hide on the stairs and tease the dogs to see if they'll play. Then she's off running, and hiding under the couch or chair. While she has their attention she'll paw their feet and then sneak out another way, and stand around the corner watching to see if they notice she's gone.
Priscilla is very much my dog at the moment, much to my husband's dismay, but she is slowly warming up to everyone. She was not used to fast moving, active children, so she is still taking a wide path around the girls when they are up and moving around, but getting better. She really is a lovely dog, but just needs to get past her timidness. Hopefully she does not remain like this, as I've always been very wary of dogs that are timid.
When I sit at the computer, she is always right down here with her head resting on my feet, unles everyone has gone to bed. That's the time when she seems to gain an extra spurt of energy and becomes really active & playful, both with Honey & with the box of toys.
If I'm on the couch she is usually at my feet, beside me or still back under the computer. It seems to be her favorite spot, and will even come over here when either of the girls are sitting here.
She will go to my husband if he's sitting still, and often when he comes in at night now, but she is still taking her time in trusting everyone. He often lets her out of her bed in the early morning before he goes to work and she will now come up to my bed, and start licking my face & neck and stepping all over me. I think she's forgotten that she isn't a little puppy any longer. lol
No matter what, we love her and she's certainly a keeper. Who am I kidding, any of them are a keeper once I bring them into my home. I'd love to have a lot more, but the town has restrictions on the dogs, and then you have to worry about the vet costs. Guess we'll have to be happy with the ones we have, and give them all of our love.
Once home was another story. She was quite timid and just kept hiding and running away from us all, but was certainly happy to see our other dog. It didn't take long till she warmed up to me, probably because her first human mom was a single lady. We've had her now for about a month and a half now. She loves to bounce around and play with both Honey & Greta. Greta likes to hide on the stairs and tease the dogs to see if they'll play. Then she's off running, and hiding under the couch or chair. While she has their attention she'll paw their feet and then sneak out another way, and stand around the corner watching to see if they notice she's gone.
Priscilla is very much my dog at the moment, much to my husband's dismay, but she is slowly warming up to everyone. She was not used to fast moving, active children, so she is still taking a wide path around the girls when they are up and moving around, but getting better. She really is a lovely dog, but just needs to get past her timidness. Hopefully she does not remain like this, as I've always been very wary of dogs that are timid.
When I sit at the computer, she is always right down here with her head resting on my feet, unles everyone has gone to bed. That's the time when she seems to gain an extra spurt of energy and becomes really active & playful, both with Honey & with the box of toys.
If I'm on the couch she is usually at my feet, beside me or still back under the computer. It seems to be her favorite spot, and will even come over here when either of the girls are sitting here.
She will go to my husband if he's sitting still, and often when he comes in at night now, but she is still taking her time in trusting everyone. He often lets her out of her bed in the early morning before he goes to work and she will now come up to my bed, and start licking my face & neck and stepping all over me. I think she's forgotten that she isn't a little puppy any longer. lol
No matter what, we love her and she's certainly a keeper. Who am I kidding, any of them are a keeper once I bring them into my home. I'd love to have a lot more, but the town has restrictions on the dogs, and then you have to worry about the vet costs. Guess we'll have to be happy with the ones we have, and give them all of our love.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Monday, January 30, 2006
FAITH...50 days of it?
In January our Pastor started a sermon topic entitled "50 Days of Faith". It's been an interesting topic to try and follow, and I like the inserts that are made up to follow along and use during the sermon. The whole focus is of course on Faith. Keeping our faith steadfast thro' everything that happens in our lives; thro' both the good and the bad times, and all the ups and downs of our lives. Do you have enough faith to help get you through 50 days? What about 50 hours, or minutes? Anything is a start! There are some days when I feel like I have enough faith to see me thro' just about anything. Then there are those days when it's such a struggle to get thro' just one day. Thus the title for my blog...One Day at a Time. That's all any of us can do is to take things a step or a day at a time.
Through all of the daily struggles I have to constantly remind myself to hold steadfast to my faith, and to God's many promises within His word...to realize that I will have enough strength for just about anything, because HE is with me, every moment of the day, every day of the week, and every day of the year. Of course there's a whole lot more to the messages with this topic....but the bottom line comes down to just one thing....FAITH in a GOD that has the power to move mountains, faith as small as a mustard seed, and a LOVE that is so strong, that He was willing to send us His only begotten Son, to die on a cross for the sins of each one of us, so that we might be blessed with the gift of salvation and 'Eternal Life'.
John 3:16:For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish, but have eternal life.
His son was not sent to condemn the world, but to save it.
It is only thro' our Faith, that we are accepted by God and right with Him, and can truly fulfill the law and all that He requires of us. (Roman's 3:30-31)
It is only when we are made right in God's sight by faith, that we have peace with God because of what Christ did for us, and thro' this we are given joy to share and look forward to sharing in God's glory. Roman's 5:1&2...11
It also says that we can rejoice when we run into problems & trials because they help us to endure, develop character, strengthen confidence, & trust in salvation, and thro' the gift of His Holy Spirit we are filled with love.
Faith comes from listening to the message of good news...news about Christ. Romans 10:17
What is faith? Faith is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot yet see. God gave His approval to people in days of old because of their faith. It is thro' faith, that we understand the universe was formed at God's command, and that many people of the bible did things, 'out of faith'. In order to please God, we must have faith. Hebrews 11
We can pray even if we feel our faith is small....Matthew 17:20
Do you have faith? Your faith depends on Jesus, so keep your eyes on Him from start to finish.
Through all of the daily struggles I have to constantly remind myself to hold steadfast to my faith, and to God's many promises within His word...to realize that I will have enough strength for just about anything, because HE is with me, every moment of the day, every day of the week, and every day of the year. Of course there's a whole lot more to the messages with this topic....but the bottom line comes down to just one thing....FAITH in a GOD that has the power to move mountains, faith as small as a mustard seed, and a LOVE that is so strong, that He was willing to send us His only begotten Son, to die on a cross for the sins of each one of us, so that we might be blessed with the gift of salvation and 'Eternal Life'.
John 3:16:For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish, but have eternal life.
His son was not sent to condemn the world, but to save it.
It is only thro' our Faith, that we are accepted by God and right with Him, and can truly fulfill the law and all that He requires of us. (Roman's 3:30-31)
It is only when we are made right in God's sight by faith, that we have peace with God because of what Christ did for us, and thro' this we are given joy to share and look forward to sharing in God's glory. Roman's 5:1&2...11
It also says that we can rejoice when we run into problems & trials because they help us to endure, develop character, strengthen confidence, & trust in salvation, and thro' the gift of His Holy Spirit we are filled with love.
Faith comes from listening to the message of good news...news about Christ. Romans 10:17
What is faith? Faith is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot yet see. God gave His approval to people in days of old because of their faith. It is thro' faith, that we understand the universe was formed at God's command, and that many people of the bible did things, 'out of faith'. In order to please God, we must have faith. Hebrews 11
We can pray even if we feel our faith is small....Matthew 17:20
Do you have faith? Your faith depends on Jesus, so keep your eyes on Him from start to finish.
January
Where did January go to? It's come & gone so quickly. It's been a crazy, crazy month, esp. weather wise. Thinks were pretty hectic over the Christmas holidays, and seemed to continue into January. Always seems to be something that needs to be done, or places to go.
We've had such a mixed bag of weather & temp. this month, as things have gone from freezing cold temp. to snowy days, freezing rain, rain, and on the occasion we are blessed with sunshine. For many the dark, cloudy days of winter seem to make this time of year seem endless & very depressing. Winter Blues.... When you see how many days we go without sunshine, it's no wonder that people get so frustrated & down, esp. those who are shut-in and seldom seem to get out of their homes.
One of the girls had skiing for her gym classes this month, and they only had 3 opportunities to go. One of the days was warmer with a drizzly rain and the slopes were gradually getting green spots on them. Another day was cooler, with some snow. Their last day it was quite chilly out there, and they had to dress for the day, but they seemed to enjoy the time out. The girls had some sick time this month, and time off at home as the colds settled into their sinus, but neither got too bad.
We've had problems with each of our vehicles breaking down, and a lot of extra expenses trying to keep them running. Seems to be a never ending job these days.
My oldest had her 14th birthday, and while we didn't do anything major we tried to make it a good day for her. My birthday was only a few days after her's and one of my best friends came & took me out, and we spent time with another friend and they took me out for lunch which was a nice treat. I came home to find a surprise from my daughters & husband...they had a single white rose for me, and a heart shaped balloon with Happy Birthday on it for me so that was nice. Then my oldest used her babysitting money to buy pizza for dinner so I didn't have to cook anything. Now that's what I call a nice relaxing birthday! Makes me thankful for my family & friends and how they have really blessed me.
We've had such a mixed bag of weather & temp. this month, as things have gone from freezing cold temp. to snowy days, freezing rain, rain, and on the occasion we are blessed with sunshine. For many the dark, cloudy days of winter seem to make this time of year seem endless & very depressing. Winter Blues.... When you see how many days we go without sunshine, it's no wonder that people get so frustrated & down, esp. those who are shut-in and seldom seem to get out of their homes.
One of the girls had skiing for her gym classes this month, and they only had 3 opportunities to go. One of the days was warmer with a drizzly rain and the slopes were gradually getting green spots on them. Another day was cooler, with some snow. Their last day it was quite chilly out there, and they had to dress for the day, but they seemed to enjoy the time out. The girls had some sick time this month, and time off at home as the colds settled into their sinus, but neither got too bad.
We've had problems with each of our vehicles breaking down, and a lot of extra expenses trying to keep them running. Seems to be a never ending job these days.
My oldest had her 14th birthday, and while we didn't do anything major we tried to make it a good day for her. My birthday was only a few days after her's and one of my best friends came & took me out, and we spent time with another friend and they took me out for lunch which was a nice treat. I came home to find a surprise from my daughters & husband...they had a single white rose for me, and a heart shaped balloon with Happy Birthday on it for me so that was nice. Then my oldest used her babysitting money to buy pizza for dinner so I didn't have to cook anything. Now that's what I call a nice relaxing birthday! Makes me thankful for my family & friends and how they have really blessed me.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Christmas
Wow, it's hard to believe how fast time often passes by. We spend so much time in the preparation of getting ready for Christmas, planning special events, meals, shopping, cleaning, fussing, running around...and then the day comes and we're too tired to enjoy it. For the person who does so much of the running around, cleaning, shopping, meal preparations etc. it's a lot of extra work that we aren't really used to doing. The stress & strain of so many events & things going on and running about, along with a lot of extra financial strain is very difficult for many to handle. Then there's the part that many families now deal with, and that is the one of trying to split up your time between each others families, parents, siblings, friends, church events.... I don't really have any easy solutions for anyone. It was hard having to do many of those things, and esp. when the children were younger and we also had to take along extra toys, clothes, diapers etc.
I used to enjoy all the fuss & having people come over, and just getting together with others. I always enjoyed that special time when the family would all gather together as one, in unity, and love. I miss my mom on these special holidays and especially during family events. We seldom 'all' get together, but families have grown, & gone about their lives in so many different ways. Now it's just our immediate family & my dad. My son & his family do their own thing. My brother & his boys came to visit for a little while to spend time with my father. That was nice to see them.
Unfortunately the years do pass by all too quickly and I don't want to think past today and where things will be as my daughters grow older. I do hope that they will remember & place value in the importance of families.
I used to enjoy all the fuss & having people come over, and just getting together with others. I always enjoyed that special time when the family would all gather together as one, in unity, and love. I miss my mom on these special holidays and especially during family events. We seldom 'all' get together, but families have grown, & gone about their lives in so many different ways. Now it's just our immediate family & my dad. My son & his family do their own thing. My brother & his boys came to visit for a little while to spend time with my father. That was nice to see them.
Unfortunately the years do pass by all too quickly and I don't want to think past today and where things will be as my daughters grow older. I do hope that they will remember & place value in the importance of families.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Merry Christmas-a right, or a choice!
The following article is one that is floating around in the internet world. I have not been able to confirm if this was true or not. It is only one of many opinions that I have received lately in regards to this topic. I for one don't have a problem with anyone coming here from other countries, and enjoying the freedom & beauty of this country. What I do object to is them coming here and changing the ways we are allowed to do things, and controlling & complaining about people's views & choices that already live here. I really don't understand why there is so much fuss & bother over something that has been a tradition & way of life for years..that of being able to wish someone a very "MERRY CHRISTMAS". Why are we suddenly being punished for a lifetime tradition of just a few words and wishing someone a Merry Christmas. Because someone chooses to take offence at the word Christmas, we are suddenly not allowed our freedom of choice & rights.
Christmas is a holiday time that has been around since long before I was born, or my parents or grandparents & many other ancestor's. Does it appear as Merry Christ - day, or Merry Christ - mas? Should I wish people a Merry Christ Birthday? Perhaps that would be more suitable, since it's the day we celebrate the birth of the Baby Jesus when He was born in a stable, and laid in a manger. If we open our bibles up to the New Testament of Luke, chapter 1 talks about Christ's mother Mary, and how she was favored by God, and chosen to be the earthly mother of God's only son, Jesus. Luke 2 talks about the birth of Jesus Christ...vs. 11: "There is born to you in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." Praise God! He gave us HIS son. That is the real reason why we have Christmas, to celebrate His birth-day.
The Lord's prayer has been taken out of 'our' schools, along with many other rights, priveledges, and choices because someone was offended by our choice. It doesn't matter if our choice & right of freedom has now been taken away.
Society has changed so much these days that we now keep the stores & factories, and many other businesses open 7 days a week. Gone is our way of life when Sundays were a day to go to church and spend time with the family, along with a day of rest. I suppose there are many people who prefer this and appreciate the fact that these places are open on Sundays. It's the people having to work it all of the time that have had their time taken away, and in many cases their rights of freedom to attend a place of worship. Meanwhile there are some people who are allowed time to leave their job for a short time, several times of day to pray because it is their religion. Now if I asked for that time I would be denied.
I'd also like to know where my rights of freedom especially my freedom to choose where & when I worship my heavenly Father. I'm not going to go on and on with my opinion. It's pretty clear that I feel my rights and others rights are being denied, both in this topic, and in other areas.
WHAT IS YOUR VIEW ON ALL OF THIS?
......................................................................
Will we still be the Country of choice and still be Canada if we
continue to make the changes forced on us by the people from other
countries that came to live in Canada because it is the Country of
Choice??????
Think about it!
All we have to say is, when will they do something about MY
RIGHTS?
I celebrate Christmas...........but because it isn't celebrated
by everyone..............we can no longer say Merry Christmas. Now it
has to be Season's Greetings.
It's not Christmas vacation, it's Winter Break. Isn't it amazing
how this winter break ALWAYS occurs over the Christmas holiday?
We've gone so far the other way, bent over backwards to not
offend anyone, that I am now being offended. But it seems that no one
has a problem with that.
This says it all!
This is an editorial written in a
Toronto newspaper. He did quite a job; didn't he? Read on,
please!
IMMIGRANTS,
NOT Canadians
MUST ADAPT.
I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we
are offending some individual or their culture. Since the
terrorist attacks on Sept. 11,
we have experienced a surge n patriotism by the majority
of Canadians. However...... the dust from the attacks had
barely settled when the "politically correct! " crowd began
complaining about
the possibility that our patriotism was offending others.
I am not against immigration, nor do I hold a grudge against
anyone who is seeking a better life by coming to Canada
Our population is almost entirely made up of descendants of
immigrants.
However, there are a few things that those who have recently
come to
our country, and apparently some born here, need to understand.
This idea of Canada being a multicultural community
has served only to dilute our sovereignty and our national
identity. As Canadians.......
we have our own culture, our own society, our own language and
our own lifestyle. This culture has been developed over centuries of
struggles, trials, and victories by millions of men and women who have
sought freedom.
We speak ENGLISH/FRENCH, not Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic,
Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or any other language.
Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society, learn the
language!
"We Stand On Guard For Thee" is our national motto. This is not
some Christian, right wing, political slogan.. We adopted this motto
because Christian men and women.......on Christian
principles.............founded this nation..... and this is clearly
documented.
It is certainly appropriate to display it on the walls of our
schools.
If God offends you, then I suggest you consider another part of
the world as
your new home.........because
God is part of our culture.
We are happy with our culture and have
no desire to change, and we really
don't care how you did things where
you came from.
This is OUR COUNTRY, our land, and our lifestyle.
But once you are done complaining....... whining...... and
griping....... about our flag.......
our pledge...... our national motto........or our
way of life....I highly encourage you to
take advantage of one other Great Canadian Freedom.......
THE RIGHT TO LEAVE.
It is Time for Canada to Speak up
If you agree -- pass this along;
if you don't agree -- delete it!
AMEN
Christmas is a holiday time that has been around since long before I was born, or my parents or grandparents & many other ancestor's. Does it appear as Merry Christ - day, or Merry Christ - mas? Should I wish people a Merry Christ Birthday? Perhaps that would be more suitable, since it's the day we celebrate the birth of the Baby Jesus when He was born in a stable, and laid in a manger. If we open our bibles up to the New Testament of Luke, chapter 1 talks about Christ's mother Mary, and how she was favored by God, and chosen to be the earthly mother of God's only son, Jesus. Luke 2 talks about the birth of Jesus Christ...vs. 11: "There is born to you in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." Praise God! He gave us HIS son. That is the real reason why we have Christmas, to celebrate His birth-day.
The Lord's prayer has been taken out of 'our' schools, along with many other rights, priveledges, and choices because someone was offended by our choice. It doesn't matter if our choice & right of freedom has now been taken away.
Society has changed so much these days that we now keep the stores & factories, and many other businesses open 7 days a week. Gone is our way of life when Sundays were a day to go to church and spend time with the family, along with a day of rest. I suppose there are many people who prefer this and appreciate the fact that these places are open on Sundays. It's the people having to work it all of the time that have had their time taken away, and in many cases their rights of freedom to attend a place of worship. Meanwhile there are some people who are allowed time to leave their job for a short time, several times of day to pray because it is their religion. Now if I asked for that time I would be denied.
I'd also like to know where my rights of freedom especially my freedom to choose where & when I worship my heavenly Father. I'm not going to go on and on with my opinion. It's pretty clear that I feel my rights and others rights are being denied, both in this topic, and in other areas.
WHAT IS YOUR VIEW ON ALL OF THIS?
......................................................................
Will we still be the Country of choice and still be Canada if we
continue to make the changes forced on us by the people from other
countries that came to live in Canada because it is the Country of
Choice??????
Think about it!
All we have to say is, when will they do something about MY
RIGHTS?
I celebrate Christmas...........but because it isn't celebrated
by everyone..............we can no longer say Merry Christmas. Now it
has to be Season's Greetings.
It's not Christmas vacation, it's Winter Break. Isn't it amazing
how this winter break ALWAYS occurs over the Christmas holiday?
We've gone so far the other way, bent over backwards to not
offend anyone, that I am now being offended. But it seems that no one
has a problem with that.
This says it all!
This is an editorial written in a
Toronto newspaper. He did quite a job; didn't he? Read on,
please!
IMMIGRANTS,
NOT Canadians
MUST ADAPT.
I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we
are offending some individual or their culture. Since the
terrorist attacks on Sept. 11,
we have experienced a surge n patriotism by the majority
of Canadians. However...... the dust from the attacks had
barely settled when the "politically correct! " crowd began
complaining about
the possibility that our patriotism was offending others.
I am not against immigration, nor do I hold a grudge against
anyone who is seeking a better life by coming to Canada
Our population is almost entirely made up of descendants of
immigrants.
However, there are a few things that those who have recently
come to
our country, and apparently some born here, need to understand.
This idea of Canada being a multicultural community
has served only to dilute our sovereignty and our national
identity. As Canadians.......
we have our own culture, our own society, our own language and
our own lifestyle. This culture has been developed over centuries of
struggles, trials, and victories by millions of men and women who have
sought freedom.
We speak ENGLISH/FRENCH, not Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic,
Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or any other language.
Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society, learn the
language!
"We Stand On Guard For Thee" is our national motto. This is not
some Christian, right wing, political slogan.. We adopted this motto
because Christian men and women.......on Christian
principles.............founded this nation..... and this is clearly
documented.
It is certainly appropriate to display it on the walls of our
schools.
If God offends you, then I suggest you consider another part of
the world as
your new home.........because
God is part of our culture.
We are happy with our culture and have
no desire to change, and we really
don't care how you did things where
you came from.
This is OUR COUNTRY, our land, and our lifestyle.
But once you are done complaining....... whining...... and
griping....... about our flag.......
our pledge...... our national motto........or our
way of life....I highly encourage you to
take advantage of one other Great Canadian Freedom.......
THE RIGHT TO LEAVE.
It is Time for Canada to Speak up
If you agree -- pass this along;
if you don't agree -- delete it!
AMEN
Thursday, November 24, 2005
Christmas Tea in November
Last night the ladies from our church got together and had a Ladies Social Event...what we called "Christmas Tea in November". There was a lot of time and hours that went into planning and preparing for this event. It took a lot of organization, things had to be planned, phone calls & emails sent out, meetings, and many hours spent making booklets, bookmarks, cookies, squares etc. Along with the planning committee, we also had someone invited to speak, someone to sing, and someone to do a craft demonstration. Along with that, we had some wonderful ladies who volunteered to come and hostess a table which meant bringing their own tablecloths, tea & coffee urns, fancy cups & saucers, etc. and the tables looked absolutely beautiful when they were done setting up. Behind the scenes, we had the one special lady who agreed to oversee everything, and a few others who committed a lot of time getting things organized. Tickets had to be sold, and then came the night of the tea, and all the work of setting up, making things, organizing, etc. and getting ready for the arrival of the first guests. Two of our wonderful young ladies came to help out for the evening and did an amazing job keeping the trays of cookies stacked up and filling up tea pots, checking to see if anyone had any needs and helping with dishes. We also had the help of a few men, one who came & helped out in the kitchen, and a few others who spent their evening helping with the sound equipement. All in all, it turned out to be a lovely evening of entertainment, & fun and getting to know others. Each of the hostesses had their own plans for their tables and it was fun to see how they all spent time decorating, and setting their tables up.
I know I met several new people, and had the opportunity to talk to another lady who also suffers with fibromyalgia.
Many of the people who were visiting thought it was something we had done before. Everyone I've talked to really enjoyed their evening out and was asking when we might have another evening out. Since this was our first major event, I think they all did an amazing job and I'd like to thank everyone who participated and helped in making this evening such a great success and special evening for all.
Hopefully, somewhere down the line, we will be able to plan on something special for
another time of the year if everyone is willing to help out and participate in one again.
I wonder if anyone has any idea's or suggestions for another event...?? If you do, just jot some ideas down to be published on my blog.
I know I met several new people, and had the opportunity to talk to another lady who also suffers with fibromyalgia.
Many of the people who were visiting thought it was something we had done before. Everyone I've talked to really enjoyed their evening out and was asking when we might have another evening out. Since this was our first major event, I think they all did an amazing job and I'd like to thank everyone who participated and helped in making this evening such a great success and special evening for all.
Hopefully, somewhere down the line, we will be able to plan on something special for
another time of the year if everyone is willing to help out and participate in one again.
I wonder if anyone has any idea's or suggestions for another event...?? If you do, just jot some ideas down to be published on my blog.
The first real snow...
Today is Thanksgiving in the United States. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone there. I was feeling pretty tired after being out last night, so this morning I sat & watched part of the Macy Thanksgiving Parade from the states. It's always a good one, although for a few people it turned out not to be when one of the large air balloons hit a lamp, then collapsed onto several people in the crowd causing injury to them. Rather a scarry situation to have to experience.
While today is not actually the first snowfall that we've actually had this winter season, it's definitely the first real big snowfall, that holds promises to stay for more than a day. There were winter storm warnings out for today, along with snow sqalls causing white outs in some areas. So far, the snow has totally covered everything. The driveway, & lawn & car are totally covered over in snow, and it's still drifting and blowing around. The temp. outside is dropping and it's a bitter cold temp. of 1oF, and still dropping.
This morning when I went out things were covered but no great accumulation. There was just black ice underneath the snow, so I had to be careful driving.
A rareity of happening in one area north of here was snow falling, while it was thunder & lightning. Now that doesn't happen very often! As I look out my window all I can see is blowing snow swirling all around, covering the cars, the trees and housetops. There is no sight of green grass around anymore, and out here, I can't even tell where the road starts and ends. I'm just glad I don't have to go out into this weather. While beautiful to look at, it is not so great to be out in or to have to drive in. Looks like winter is definitely on it's way. There's certainly enough snow out there!
While today is not actually the first snowfall that we've actually had this winter season, it's definitely the first real big snowfall, that holds promises to stay for more than a day. There were winter storm warnings out for today, along with snow sqalls causing white outs in some areas. So far, the snow has totally covered everything. The driveway, & lawn & car are totally covered over in snow, and it's still drifting and blowing around. The temp. outside is dropping and it's a bitter cold temp. of 1oF, and still dropping.
This morning when I went out things were covered but no great accumulation. There was just black ice underneath the snow, so I had to be careful driving.
A rareity of happening in one area north of here was snow falling, while it was thunder & lightning. Now that doesn't happen very often! As I look out my window all I can see is blowing snow swirling all around, covering the cars, the trees and housetops. There is no sight of green grass around anymore, and out here, I can't even tell where the road starts and ends. I'm just glad I don't have to go out into this weather. While beautiful to look at, it is not so great to be out in or to have to drive in. Looks like winter is definitely on it's way. There's certainly enough snow out there!
Saturday, November 19, 2005
Nasty Flare up's
Sometimes I feel like a broken record, but living with pain just seems to be something that is a big part of my life. This week I suffered an awful flare up of pain, and could hardly walk for a few days or stand the pain. I think perhaps it's due to the changing weather and barometer. It's turned cold & damp with snow in the forecast, and strong winds.
My back, neck & leg pain was horrible and there were times when I wondered where the pain was worse when it seemed to be all over my body. I spent three days on the couch or in bed, resting and sleeping when I could, and just trying to deal with the awful pain. As it began to ease up a little and become more bearable I have been able to do a few more things, and finally get out of the house to get some groceries and take my dad shopping.
I'm certainly thankful for my family who helped out with a couple of the meals, and doing some dishes. It's amazing how those dirty dishes seem to just pile up!
The pain is still bad, but at least its tolerable and I'm able to get out and move and do more. Thanks to all who kept me in their prayers this past week.
My back, neck & leg pain was horrible and there were times when I wondered where the pain was worse when it seemed to be all over my body. I spent three days on the couch or in bed, resting and sleeping when I could, and just trying to deal with the awful pain. As it began to ease up a little and become more bearable I have been able to do a few more things, and finally get out of the house to get some groceries and take my dad shopping.
I'm certainly thankful for my family who helped out with a couple of the meals, and doing some dishes. It's amazing how those dirty dishes seem to just pile up!
The pain is still bad, but at least its tolerable and I'm able to get out and move and do more. Thanks to all who kept me in their prayers this past week.
Santa Claus Parade
Today was the local Santa Claus Parade. The weather was cold, but sunny,and no snow(at least not by the time it started) so I think it was enjoyed by most everyone.
The past few days we've actually had snow lying on the ground and bitter cold temperatures, and such damp cold winds that just go right thro' you to the bones. Thankfully the sun warmed things up and took away the little bit of snow that remained on the ground.
Our church had their own float again this year. While I wasn't able to be involved in the decorating & preparation of it this time, I was able to join in on the final preparations, and early start, and be on the float with the kids. I'd rather have been out walking along the streets giving out the brochures & candy canes, but I do enjoy being up there on the float as well, and I just can't walk that distance anymore. The parade theme was "Christmas in Canada" and our church group decided to do our float with a theme of what Christmas might be like in Northern Canada...an Inuivut Christmas. They had part of an igloo at the one end with Mary & Joseph & the baby Jesus in a manager. They made a little box in the middle with some red crepe paper and a fan underneath that was supposed to look like flames coming up and a fire. There were two of the youth on some drums, and on the front was a sleigh and they put two of the youngest children in there, and had my daughter in a fur coat looking like she was out getting her dog sled ready. We just didn't have the dogs. The younger children along with a few of us adults sat on the float, while some others ran back and forth from the float handing out little flyers, and candy canes, and one guy was dressed as a trapper, while someone else dressed as a seal.
We sang while the drums played, and waved and yelled Merry Christmas all thro' the parade, and a fun time was had by all. If you haven't been involved in the preparation of getting a float ready, it's a lot of work & preparation ahead of time(much done by our youth & leaders along with the pastor), along with many hours in the cold outdoors getting the final things done to the float, making your way to the starting point, then waiting in line as all the floats arrive, and making any last additions to the float and getting people ready.
The flyers not only took some to make up & cut and roll, but then they had to be tied with ribbons and a candy cane attached to each one. That is a very time consuming job as well, which some of the ladies worked on. I believe from the time many people went outside, until they got home and helped break down the float and got home to some warmth, 5 hours had passed by. Brrrrrrr...it was good to get home to a nice hot coffee, and to enjoy some fellowhip with some good friends. For me that was probably one of the best parts of the day, getting out amongst friends, and being able to just forget about everything else and have some fun for a little while.
Tomorrow is the big Toronto Santa Claus Parade and I'm looking forward to watching it from the comfort and warmth of my home on the television!
The past few days we've actually had snow lying on the ground and bitter cold temperatures, and such damp cold winds that just go right thro' you to the bones. Thankfully the sun warmed things up and took away the little bit of snow that remained on the ground.
Our church had their own float again this year. While I wasn't able to be involved in the decorating & preparation of it this time, I was able to join in on the final preparations, and early start, and be on the float with the kids. I'd rather have been out walking along the streets giving out the brochures & candy canes, but I do enjoy being up there on the float as well, and I just can't walk that distance anymore. The parade theme was "Christmas in Canada" and our church group decided to do our float with a theme of what Christmas might be like in Northern Canada...an Inuivut Christmas. They had part of an igloo at the one end with Mary & Joseph & the baby Jesus in a manager. They made a little box in the middle with some red crepe paper and a fan underneath that was supposed to look like flames coming up and a fire. There were two of the youth on some drums, and on the front was a sleigh and they put two of the youngest children in there, and had my daughter in a fur coat looking like she was out getting her dog sled ready. We just didn't have the dogs. The younger children along with a few of us adults sat on the float, while some others ran back and forth from the float handing out little flyers, and candy canes, and one guy was dressed as a trapper, while someone else dressed as a seal.
We sang while the drums played, and waved and yelled Merry Christmas all thro' the parade, and a fun time was had by all. If you haven't been involved in the preparation of getting a float ready, it's a lot of work & preparation ahead of time(much done by our youth & leaders along with the pastor), along with many hours in the cold outdoors getting the final things done to the float, making your way to the starting point, then waiting in line as all the floats arrive, and making any last additions to the float and getting people ready.
The flyers not only took some to make up & cut and roll, but then they had to be tied with ribbons and a candy cane attached to each one. That is a very time consuming job as well, which some of the ladies worked on. I believe from the time many people went outside, until they got home and helped break down the float and got home to some warmth, 5 hours had passed by. Brrrrrrr...it was good to get home to a nice hot coffee, and to enjoy some fellowhip with some good friends. For me that was probably one of the best parts of the day, getting out amongst friends, and being able to just forget about everything else and have some fun for a little while.
Tomorrow is the big Toronto Santa Claus Parade and I'm looking forward to watching it from the comfort and warmth of my home on the television!
Personality tests What are you?
http://www.enneagraminstitute.com/downloads/rhetisip.asp
Check out this side and take the personality tests here.
Check out this side and take the personality tests here.
Saturday, November 05, 2005
digital camera's
Ok, I don't know how many people might be reading my blog, but I'm wondering how many of you happen to know things about the digital camera's. If someone is interested in starting out with one, what advice would you give them and what would sort of things should a person look for in a digital camera? Once you have the camera, what other expenses are also involved if you want to use the pictures and put them on your computer?
Any advice you have would certainly be helpful......
Any advice you have would certainly be helpful......
Painful days...
Ok I'm sitting here once again, just taking things "one day at a time", or better yet, today I've been trying to take things one moment, or one hour at a time, and waiting for this day to end, and hopefully to wake up to a much better one tomorrow.
I've been having not only 'one of those days', but several of those days lately where for me, the pain has been so great, and all over that it's such an effort to get around. I know it may seem to some that I'm just sitting here complaining about the pain, but if they had to live with the constant, everyday pain, for years, and years, knowing that it will never likely go away, then I think perhaps others might be writing about their pain too. If I stand for any time my legs and esp. my knee's are throbbing with pain. If I sit too long, they are still hurting, and weak and it's all I can do to just stand up and get around. Even sitting here, I'm not sure where I hurt worse. My fingers, my hands, my arms, my neck, my head, my chest, my ribs, my back, my stomach, my legs, knees, feet......
Some days the pain is not as bad as others, but those days seem to be few & far between. Lately the pain has just been so constant, and never ending, and bad. Right now I can't even touch my sides as they are so painful. My fingers and hands are stiff with the arthritis that is in them, and tonight is one of those times when it does hurt to sit here and type. I just have to keep believing that there is a reason for it and for all that I go thro', and all that others much endure in their lives.
Sometimes it's really difficult to understand why bad things happen to us, or what we must go thro' the trials we are forced to endure. I suppose if I'm able to help someone else who has had a hard time then that is something I need to try and do.
I know I've put some weight on lately, so I fear that this is adding to my pain, and it's something I really need to try and do something about. I cannot continue to put on the weight, and eat things that will add to it. Somehow I need to find out what foods might possibly be aggravating things.
Right now I can't sit here any longer, so I need to say goodnight and try to move about, and loosen things up so I can get up the stairs...now that should be interesting tonight!
I've been having not only 'one of those days', but several of those days lately where for me, the pain has been so great, and all over that it's such an effort to get around. I know it may seem to some that I'm just sitting here complaining about the pain, but if they had to live with the constant, everyday pain, for years, and years, knowing that it will never likely go away, then I think perhaps others might be writing about their pain too. If I stand for any time my legs and esp. my knee's are throbbing with pain. If I sit too long, they are still hurting, and weak and it's all I can do to just stand up and get around. Even sitting here, I'm not sure where I hurt worse. My fingers, my hands, my arms, my neck, my head, my chest, my ribs, my back, my stomach, my legs, knees, feet......
Some days the pain is not as bad as others, but those days seem to be few & far between. Lately the pain has just been so constant, and never ending, and bad. Right now I can't even touch my sides as they are so painful. My fingers and hands are stiff with the arthritis that is in them, and tonight is one of those times when it does hurt to sit here and type. I just have to keep believing that there is a reason for it and for all that I go thro', and all that others much endure in their lives.
Sometimes it's really difficult to understand why bad things happen to us, or what we must go thro' the trials we are forced to endure. I suppose if I'm able to help someone else who has had a hard time then that is something I need to try and do.
I know I've put some weight on lately, so I fear that this is adding to my pain, and it's something I really need to try and do something about. I cannot continue to put on the weight, and eat things that will add to it. Somehow I need to find out what foods might possibly be aggravating things.
Right now I can't sit here any longer, so I need to say goodnight and try to move about, and loosen things up so I can get up the stairs...now that should be interesting tonight!
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