Golf score slightly improved today, thanks to my new coach Ron King. Even had a zero putt from the fringe, emulating my hero.
A nice breeze kept the heat from being oppressive. A very comfortable golf day.
---------------------------------------------
According to "unnamed sources" Trump has begun to realize that he is way behind Biden and he is really upset and depressed about it. Expect things to get very nasty as he tries to get back in the race. The civil war is on simmer.
---------------------------------------------
Not much else to report today. Stay calm. Be kind.
Tuesday, June 30, 2020
Monday, June 29, 2020
Our 2020 Grads
Started the day by installing the doors on the sink side in the kitchen. Then headed to the greenhouse to spray weeds with RoundUp for about an hour. Finally cut grass for another hour before heading home for a break from the heat.
-----------------------------------------
At 6 p.m. we headed for the event of the year! A high school graduation party for the twins.
Congratulations to two good looking kids! She intends to be a nurse. He hasn't decided yet, but I think he looks like a lawyer.
An awesome event! Well done Sarah-Jean and Ewen!
------------------------------------------
Tomorrow it's back to the golf course.
Be calm. Be kind. Be safe.
-----------------------------------------
At 6 p.m. we headed for the event of the year! A high school graduation party for the twins.
------------------------------------------
Tomorrow it's back to the golf course.
Be calm. Be kind. Be safe.
Sunday, June 28, 2020
Another Bad Game
We're still trying to get in golf games with all the friends with whom we normally play. Today, we were able to enjoy the company of Monica and Jim Maguire at MontHill.
Unfortunately, my travails at my golf game are still with me. And, I managed to drag my friends down to my level - a dubious distinction!
Nevertheless, we all survived, bolstered by a beverage at the end in our favourite shady spot behind Gold 9's green.
Despairingly, a close-up of Monica's drink revealed the dreaded Corona. "Extra" at that!
That's my Moosehead that Mardi is holding. She drank a Bud - pretty appropriate I would say. Love you too babe!
But the heat and all the strokes I needed pretty well wiped me out. So no work on the kitchen, although I did finish painting the frame this morning before golf.
Tomorrow the doors go back on and Mardi can have her kitchen back for a while.
-----------------------------------------
I haven't turned on the TV news yet. Don't have enough energy left to get upset, so I'll publish what I've posted so far.
-----------------------------------------
Be calm. Be kind. Be safe.
Unfortunately, my travails at my golf game are still with me. And, I managed to drag my friends down to my level - a dubious distinction!
Nevertheless, we all survived, bolstered by a beverage at the end in our favourite shady spot behind Gold 9's green.
That's my Moosehead that Mardi is holding. She drank a Bud - pretty appropriate I would say. Love you too babe!
But the heat and all the strokes I needed pretty well wiped me out. So no work on the kitchen, although I did finish painting the frame this morning before golf.
Tomorrow the doors go back on and Mardi can have her kitchen back for a while.
-----------------------------------------
I haven't turned on the TV news yet. Don't have enough energy left to get upset, so I'll publish what I've posted so far.
-----------------------------------------
Be calm. Be kind. Be safe.
Saturday, June 27, 2020
The Old Philosopher
Previously, I have commented on the four year extended life expectancy that our Canadian health care system gives us versus the U.S. The following article paints an even worse picture - the U.S. spends almost 60% more than us per person to end up with those worse results. And it explains how that happens.
https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/tweets-comparing-u-s-and-canadian-health-care-during-pandemic-strike-nerve-1.5001456
--------------------------------------
Barry commented on how Covid has changed his perspective on life. I suspect that most of us have spent some time thinking about that. We need to be more thankful for what and who we have in our lives.
As well, I was lying in bed thinking about how we used to pretend to complain about being on a "fixed income". Having that fixed income now is a game changer! Thousands of people have lost their jobs, many of which won't be returning. Businesses have closed, with owners broke. Scary times that we old folks can coast through. We just have to hope that the financial institutions that are backing up our incomes have enough cushion to weather the market downturn.
---------------------------------------
The virus has brought out the best and the worst in people. Let's make sure that we're in the first group!
---------------------------------------
Tomorrow is a golf day, with Monica and Jim Maguire. Hopefully, my body will forget yesterday's round and I can beat Mardi. I'm forever optimistic!
Stay well. Follow the safety rules. Have fun!
https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/tweets-comparing-u-s-and-canadian-health-care-during-pandemic-strike-nerve-1.5001456
--------------------------------------
Barry commented on how Covid has changed his perspective on life. I suspect that most of us have spent some time thinking about that. We need to be more thankful for what and who we have in our lives.
As well, I was lying in bed thinking about how we used to pretend to complain about being on a "fixed income". Having that fixed income now is a game changer! Thousands of people have lost their jobs, many of which won't be returning. Businesses have closed, with owners broke. Scary times that we old folks can coast through. We just have to hope that the financial institutions that are backing up our incomes have enough cushion to weather the market downturn.
---------------------------------------
The virus has brought out the best and the worst in people. Let's make sure that we're in the first group!
---------------------------------------
Tomorrow is a golf day, with Monica and Jim Maguire. Hopefully, my body will forget yesterday's round and I can beat Mardi. I'm forever optimistic!
Stay well. Follow the safety rules. Have fun!
Friday, June 26, 2020
Lousy Golf
Travelled to Cambridge today. Not a good result for me. We played there a year ago so I went back and checked my score. Last year a 97 from the white tees. This year 105 from the yellow forward tees. Took 8 strokes more this year to go 500 yards less. Go figure!
-------------------------------------
Stopped at the greenhouse on the way home to make a final cut on one of the boards for the kitchen (thank goodness I can make noise and a mess there - it's a little tougher here). Tomorrow I'll finish installing the framing for the sink side and get it ready for painting.
-------------------------------------
Don't know whether it was my lousy golf game or the heat but I was whipped when I got home. That's it for today. Stay well.
-------------------------------------
Stopped at the greenhouse on the way home to make a final cut on one of the boards for the kitchen (thank goodness I can make noise and a mess there - it's a little tougher here). Tomorrow I'll finish installing the framing for the sink side and get it ready for painting.
-------------------------------------
Don't know whether it was my lousy golf game or the heat but I was whipped when I got home. That's it for today. Stay well.
Thursday, June 25, 2020
Kitchen Duty
Two birthdays to celebrate today. My baby sister Judy, who gave me labour pains 68 years ago, and my second cousin (cousin Jim's daughter) Rose-Ann (Rosie) who is quite a bit younger. Best wishes to both.
--------------------------------------
Got a message from my brother after he returned from the Annual Invitational Bass Classic at Lake Weslemkoon.
Never had a chance to communicate properly while up at the Koon!
Fishing was mostly excellent, but heat was horrible. We went out early and were back in by 11. Went back out around 6 for a couple of hours each night. Lots of physical distancing, but we did have a few opportunities to safely sit together each evening.
Moe had the early lead with a 4 1/2 LM from the back of Otter, Paul came on and pulled a 5’10” out of the back of Seymour Creek to take the trophy.
I picked up a 4 on the last day.
I got towed from the back of Otter by Barry on Saturday morning and left the boat at Merritt’s on Monday night and picked it up with the trailer on the way home. A combination of several issues. Can’t get the boat in to Bay City till July 14 in order to make a decision on the future.
All in all a great trip.
But very expensive I'm guessing! Maybe he should talk to David about a pontoon boat!
A 5'10" Large Mouth Bass in Ontario is awesome - congrats to nephew Paul! He always outfishes the rest of us!
------------------------------------------
Spent most of today working on the kitchen.
When we bought the place, there was no dishwasher, although it appears that one existed sometime in the past. So, we took off a couple of useless doors and installed a new dishwasher. Apparently the old one was somewhat wider.
As well, the two doors in the corner bind on each other when opened. And the doors don't match up with divider in the new sink.
Since we have no appetite to pay several thousand dollars for new cabinetry, the lumber butcher has been given the go-ahead to fix things!
So the project, phase one, is to fix the sink side. Estimated cost, about $25.
The other side is destined to have another set of wide, deep drawers. The two doors currently there will be used for the appliance garage that I previously built.
It's "interesting" to see what you uncover when you start to dismantle 50 year old cupboards!
Phase One should be complete within a week. Phase Two - who knows? And, at what cost?
---------------------------------------------
And, from Roy and Al, some advice about Covid 19.
--------------------------------------
Got a message from my brother after he returned from the Annual Invitational Bass Classic at Lake Weslemkoon.
Never had a chance to communicate properly while up at the Koon!
Fishing was mostly excellent, but heat was horrible. We went out early and were back in by 11. Went back out around 6 for a couple of hours each night. Lots of physical distancing, but we did have a few opportunities to safely sit together each evening.
Moe had the early lead with a 4 1/2 LM from the back of Otter, Paul came on and pulled a 5’10” out of the back of Seymour Creek to take the trophy.
I picked up a 4 on the last day.
I got towed from the back of Otter by Barry on Saturday morning and left the boat at Merritt’s on Monday night and picked it up with the trailer on the way home. A combination of several issues. Can’t get the boat in to Bay City till July 14 in order to make a decision on the future.
All in all a great trip.
But very expensive I'm guessing! Maybe he should talk to David about a pontoon boat!
A 5'10" Large Mouth Bass in Ontario is awesome - congrats to nephew Paul! He always outfishes the rest of us!
------------------------------------------
Spent most of today working on the kitchen.
As well, the two doors in the corner bind on each other when opened. And the doors don't match up with divider in the new sink.
Since we have no appetite to pay several thousand dollars for new cabinetry, the lumber butcher has been given the go-ahead to fix things!
So the project, phase one, is to fix the sink side. Estimated cost, about $25.
The other side is destined to have another set of wide, deep drawers. The two doors currently there will be used for the appliance garage that I previously built.
It's "interesting" to see what you uncover when you start to dismantle 50 year old cupboards!
Phase One should be complete within a week. Phase Two - who knows? And, at what cost?
---------------------------------------------
And, from Roy and Al, some advice about Covid 19.
Finally something practical and honest from the Head of the Infectious Disease Clinic, University of Maryland, USA: re.Covid19.
1. We may have to live with C19 for months or years. Let's not deny it or panic. Let's not make our lives useless. Let's learn to live with this fact.
2. You can't destroy C19 viruses that have penetrated cell walls, by drinking gallons of hot water - you'll just go to the bathroom more often.
3. Washing hands and maintaining a
two-metre physical distance is the best method for your protection.
4. If you don't have a C19 patient at home, there's no need to disinfect the surfaces at your house.
5. Packaged cargo, gas pumps, shopping carts and ATMs do not cause infection.
If you Wash your hands, live your life as usual.
6. C19 is not a food infection. It is associated with drops of infection like the 'flu. There is no demonstrated risk that C19 is transmitted by food.
7. You can lose your sense of smell with a lot of allergies and viral infections. This is only a non-specific symptom of C19.
8. Once at home, you don't need to change your clothes urgently and go shower!
Purity is a virtue, paranoia is not!
9. The C19 virus doesn't hang in the air for long. This is a respiratory droplet infection that requires close contact.
10. The air is clean, you can walk through the gardens (just keeping your physical protection distance), through parks.
11. It is sufficient to use normal soap against C19, not antibacterial soap. This is a virus, not a bacteria.
12. You don't have to worry about your food orders. But you can heat it all up in the microwave, if you wish.
13. The chances of bringing C19 home with your shoes is like being struck by lightning twice in a day. I've been working against viruses for 20 years - drop infections don't spread like that!
14. You can't be protected from the virus by taking vinegar, sugarcane juice and ginger! These are for immunity not a cure.
15. Wearing a mask for long periods interferes with your breathing and oxygen levels. Wear it only in crowds.
16. Wearing gloves is also a bad idea; the virus can accumulate into the glove and be easily transmitted if you touch your face. Better just to wash your hands regularly.
Immunity is greatly weakened by always staying in a sterile environment. Even if you eat immunity boosting foods, please go out of your house regularly to any park/beach.
Immunity is increased by EXPOSURE TO PATHOGENS, not by sitting at home and consuming fried/spicy/sugary food and aerated drinks.
Live life sensibly and to the fullest. Be smart and stay informed.
--------------------------------------------
And, if you don't like wearing a mask, you're going to hate wearing a ventilator.
--------------------------------------------
Tomorrow is a golf day. To hell with the kitchen!
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Slow News Day
Bought some wood for the kitchen cupboards, cut and notched it at the greenhouse. The kitchen will be worked on tomorrow.
Then I widened the garden around the Charlie Brown tree and severely cut back a shrub that had partially died. Cut grass back over the septic bed - made hay.
The sun and wind wore me out. That's all for today.
-----------------------------------------
Tomorrow we also have another birthday to celebrate.
Stay well.
Then I widened the garden around the Charlie Brown tree and severely cut back a shrub that had partially died. Cut grass back over the septic bed - made hay.
The sun and wind wore me out. That's all for today.
-----------------------------------------
Tomorrow we also have another birthday to celebrate.
Stay well.
Tuesday, June 23, 2020
Rained Out
For the first time, the MontHill weather let me down! Pulled into the parking lot and the rain started. So six of us chatted under our social distanced umbrellas for a few minutes and then headed home (except for the guys who headed to Hewitt's for ice cream).
We're going to reload at Cambridge on Friday.
--------------------------------------
A shout out to daughter Kathryn who is celebrating her birthday today. Fifty-four years young. All the best Kathryn. We'll get together later in the week for a visit.
---------------------------------------
Per Trump's bidding, the U.S. is actually cutting back on virus testing! And Europe is planning to restrict Americans from visiting because they have not been able (or seriously, at the Federal level, even tried) to control their infection rate. Who ever thought the U.S. would sink this low?
----------------------------------------
Started working on the lower kitchen cabinets this week. Mardi can look forward to bit of a mess for a while.
----------------------------------------
Tomorrow it's gardening and buying wood for my kitchen project.
----------------------------------------
Stay optimistic. Expect good things to happen.
We're going to reload at Cambridge on Friday.
--------------------------------------
A shout out to daughter Kathryn who is celebrating her birthday today. Fifty-four years young. All the best Kathryn. We'll get together later in the week for a visit.
---------------------------------------
Per Trump's bidding, the U.S. is actually cutting back on virus testing! And Europe is planning to restrict Americans from visiting because they have not been able (or seriously, at the Federal level, even tried) to control their infection rate. Who ever thought the U.S. would sink this low?
----------------------------------------
Started working on the lower kitchen cabinets this week. Mardi can look forward to bit of a mess for a while.
----------------------------------------
Tomorrow it's gardening and buying wood for my kitchen project.
----------------------------------------
Stay optimistic. Expect good things to happen.
Monday, June 22, 2020
Tik Tok, Tik Tok
There have been claims that the kids on Tik Tok caused Trump's Tulsa rally to come up short of folks in the stands. I think there is a different answer than that and it's much more devastating to Trump.
The access rule for the arena was first come - first served. So, if 19,000 Republicans had actually been interested and showed up, the arena would have been full. The fact that only 6,200 showed up speaks volumes about their lack of interest, or their fear of catching the virus. Either of those reasons is bad news for the virus denier.
What the Tik Tok kids really did was to totally embarrass Trump and his organizers who bragged that they had over a million requests for tickets. Looks like about 993,800 of those requests were bogus! Good on the kids!
-----------------------------------------
Mardi made a hair appointment this morning - 18 days out was the first availability!
------------------------------------------
NICE SIGN! Congratulations!
--------------------------------------------------
Tomorrow is a golf day, although my golf buddies seem to be worried about rain. Oh for the good old days when we didn't have the weather channel, etc. to get us agitated.
--------------------------------------------------
Stay well, stay calm, say something nice about somebody.
The access rule for the arena was first come - first served. So, if 19,000 Republicans had actually been interested and showed up, the arena would have been full. The fact that only 6,200 showed up speaks volumes about their lack of interest, or their fear of catching the virus. Either of those reasons is bad news for the virus denier.
What the Tik Tok kids really did was to totally embarrass Trump and his organizers who bragged that they had over a million requests for tickets. Looks like about 993,800 of those requests were bogus! Good on the kids!
-----------------------------------------
Mardi made a hair appointment this morning - 18 days out was the first availability!
------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------
Tomorrow is a golf day, although my golf buddies seem to be worried about rain. Oh for the good old days when we didn't have the weather channel, etc. to get us agitated.
--------------------------------------------------
Stay well, stay calm, say something nice about somebody.
Sunday, June 21, 2020
Father's Day
My friend Wayne sent me a bunch of cartoons and sayings, and one observation is a very sad truth:
"One of the worst parts of the Trump era is the inescapable realization of just how many truly awful people walk among us."
And most of them will tell you that they are Christians. Faint hope!
------------------------------------------------------
In Tulsa, a half empty arena and six staffers test positive for the virus. He has to be beside himself (that thought is scary - two of him side by side?).
------------------------------------------------------
A show of hands. Who plans to go to Florida this coming winter?
------------------------------------------------------
Mardi and I were invited to have dinner with David, Sue and family. Spent a wonderful afternoon and evening enjoying Sarah-Jean's cooking and baking. Pumpkin Pie especially!
Don't get to see Malcolm and Esther very often. Glad they could make it.
The bottle of Northern Harvest Crown Royal beside me was a gift from Sean. Thanks Sean!
Ewen was working at Sobey's until 8 p.m. so he missed being in the pictures but he completed the family gathering. Wonderful time!
--------------------------------------------------
Happy Father's Day.
"One of the worst parts of the Trump era is the inescapable realization of just how many truly awful people walk among us."
And most of them will tell you that they are Christians. Faint hope!
------------------------------------------------------
In Tulsa, a half empty arena and six staffers test positive for the virus. He has to be beside himself (that thought is scary - two of him side by side?).
------------------------------------------------------
A show of hands. Who plans to go to Florida this coming winter?
------------------------------------------------------
Mardi and I were invited to have dinner with David, Sue and family. Spent a wonderful afternoon and evening enjoying Sarah-Jean's cooking and baking. Pumpkin Pie especially!
Don't get to see Malcolm and Esther very often. Glad they could make it.
Ewen was working at Sobey's until 8 p.m. so he missed being in the pictures but he completed the family gathering. Wonderful time!
--------------------------------------------------
Happy Father's Day.
Saturday, June 20, 2020
Bass Opening
I had been trying to reconnect with my old friend Jim Smythe after he left a message on the phone. We finally spoke after I had published yesterday's post.
Jim had been watching the golf tournament from Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island and was reminiscing about a golf week we spent on Hilton Head many years ago (although we didn't get to play Harbour Town since it was in a gated area).
It was nice to reconnect with my Optimist friend - we haven't seen each other since well before Mardi and I made our last trek to Florida. Coincidentally, yesterday was Jim's 95th birthday! A couple of his family got to visit him at his Amica retirement home which was nice.
I hope we'll get to play Euchre with Jim again in the future. He's a fine gentleman.
-----------------------------------------
Normally, on the fourth Saturday in June I would be with my Fishguts friends at Lake Weslemkoon for bass opening. However, this year, with the coronavirus over our heads, some decisions had to be made. Within the group and their partners are people with COPD and with compromised immune systems. During the email planning the anxiety level was obvious.
Since I am out and about every day, either golfing or gardening, and although I follow the guidelines on social distancing, I recognized that I presented a risk to my friends. Even getting in and out of our building, wearing a mask, brings you too close to people at times.
So, I decided to take a pass on this year's outing.
What do you do when you can't attend the 45th Annual Invitational Bass Classic?
Jim had been watching the golf tournament from Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island and was reminiscing about a golf week we spent on Hilton Head many years ago (although we didn't get to play Harbour Town since it was in a gated area).
It was nice to reconnect with my Optimist friend - we haven't seen each other since well before Mardi and I made our last trek to Florida. Coincidentally, yesterday was Jim's 95th birthday! A couple of his family got to visit him at his Amica retirement home which was nice.
I hope we'll get to play Euchre with Jim again in the future. He's a fine gentleman.
-----------------------------------------
Normally, on the fourth Saturday in June I would be with my Fishguts friends at Lake Weslemkoon for bass opening. However, this year, with the coronavirus over our heads, some decisions had to be made. Within the group and their partners are people with COPD and with compromised immune systems. During the email planning the anxiety level was obvious.
Since I am out and about every day, either golfing or gardening, and although I follow the guidelines on social distancing, I recognized that I presented a risk to my friends. Even getting in and out of our building, wearing a mask, brings you too close to people at times.
So, I decided to take a pass on this year's outing.
What do you do when you can't attend the 45th Annual Invitational Bass Classic?
- first, you save over $300.
- second, you avoid dozens of mosquito bites
- third, you don't have to listen to your brother snore
- and fourth, you look for a different venue. It was off to Trillium Hill Fish Farm.
Instant success!
Jake wasn't so sure what to make of it all.
Sarah-Jean tried her hand at the sport.
We kept just three tasty Smallmouth Bass for the Craig family dinner.
And then David decided the heat required a swim.
And the fish go to the greenhouse to get cleaned. No boat, just a bike! We're saving the environment too!
Caught more fish in fifteen minutes than I usually caught in a weekend. Average cost for each fish - $0. I'll have a tough decision to make when the 46th AIBC comes up!
-------------------------------------------------
Stay calm. Enjoy your day.
Friday, June 19, 2020
Mission Complete
Mardi enjoys sitting out on the balcony to watch the morning sun. I prefer the sunsets.
We've seen some really spectacular sunsets from our vantage point.
------------------------------------------
Finished pruning the pines today. Took along my ladder girl to make sure I didn't topple over.
The tops of some of the trees will not be reachable next year with our orchard ladder. May have to explore Gary Parker's Zamboni suggestion, or get someone taller to climb the ladder.
-------------------------------------------
Came home early. The heat was a heavy load today.
-------------------------------------------
Bass season starts tomorrow. More on that later.
-------------------------------------------
The virus is a pain to deal with and worry about but there's still life to be enjoyed. Stay calm.
------------------------------------------
Finished pruning the pines today. Took along my ladder girl to make sure I didn't topple over.
The tops of some of the trees will not be reachable next year with our orchard ladder. May have to explore Gary Parker's Zamboni suggestion, or get someone taller to climb the ladder.
-------------------------------------------
Came home early. The heat was a heavy load today.
-------------------------------------------
Bass season starts tomorrow. More on that later.
-------------------------------------------
The virus is a pain to deal with and worry about but there's still life to be enjoyed. Stay calm.
Thursday, June 18, 2020
Pruning 101
I've been asked about the purpose of pruning the pine trees. David planted a variety of types of pines along the driveway. They grow at different rates - one variety by two feet per year. By now, without pruning, they would have reached and interfered with the power line overhead and spread over the driveway.
Pruning makes them more compact and even (Christmas trees are also pruned for that reason) and probably satisfies the NEC by blocking the neighbours' view more effectively.
-------------------------------------
But, my Charlie Brown tree (it started out as a four foot runt with very few branches) doesn't get trimmed.
Instead, I will widen the garden to make room. It will be several more years before it reaches the driveway.
--------------------------------------
Pruned about half of the trees that were left before my legs turned to rubber. So I went into default mode and cut some more of the back field. Should complete both tomorrow.
---------------------------------------
John Bolton's book "The Room Where It Happened" isn't the only book critical of Trump. Niece Mary Trump has penned one titled "Too Much And Never Enough - How My Family Created The World's Most Dangerous Man". Love to read that one too!
--------------------------------------
Trudeau has lost his bid for Canada to have a seat on the U.N. Security Council - to Ireland and Norway. His preachy, no action, style apparently didn't wear well in the voting. All drama, no action.
And now, he's using the coronavirus environment to act like a little dictator at home. He has a minority government that is trying to pretend it has absolute power. Why is it that sons of millionaires (Trump and Trudeau) are so shallow? Your kids and mine are lucky we're not rich!
-------------------------------------------------
Speaking of preaching, I guess I've done enough.
Stay calm. Stay well.
Pruning makes them more compact and even (Christmas trees are also pruned for that reason) and probably satisfies the NEC by blocking the neighbours' view more effectively.
-------------------------------------
But, my Charlie Brown tree (it started out as a four foot runt with very few branches) doesn't get trimmed.
Pruned about half of the trees that were left before my legs turned to rubber. So I went into default mode and cut some more of the back field. Should complete both tomorrow.
---------------------------------------
John Bolton's book "The Room Where It Happened" isn't the only book critical of Trump. Niece Mary Trump has penned one titled "Too Much And Never Enough - How My Family Created The World's Most Dangerous Man". Love to read that one too!
--------------------------------------
Trudeau has lost his bid for Canada to have a seat on the U.N. Security Council - to Ireland and Norway. His preachy, no action, style apparently didn't wear well in the voting. All drama, no action.
And now, he's using the coronavirus environment to act like a little dictator at home. He has a minority government that is trying to pretend it has absolute power. Why is it that sons of millionaires (Trump and Trudeau) are so shallow? Your kids and mine are lucky we're not rich!
-------------------------------------------------
Speaking of preaching, I guess I've done enough.
Stay calm. Stay well.
Wednesday, June 17, 2020
Bits and Bites
Black Republican American Senator, Tim Scott, says that there is no systemic racism in the United States. He has been pulled over by police ten times in the past year, but there is no systemic racism. Incredible!
Maybe he always drives 100 miles an hour or something!
------------------------------------------
Can't wait to get my hands on John Bolton's new book about the Trump Administration. Hope it's well distributed before the November election!
------------------------------------------
There are rumblings that Joe Biden isn't healthy enough to be President. He looks better than Trump though. And, as long as he picks the right woman to be his Vice-President it will all work out anyway.
------------------------------------------
Cut grass today. Had to get the lawns back in shape before I resume pruning the pines. That will happen tomorrow.
------------------------------------------
A slow news day. Sorry. I'll try to do better tomorrow. Stay well.
Maybe he always drives 100 miles an hour or something!
------------------------------------------
Can't wait to get my hands on John Bolton's new book about the Trump Administration. Hope it's well distributed before the November election!
------------------------------------------
There are rumblings that Joe Biden isn't healthy enough to be President. He looks better than Trump though. And, as long as he picks the right woman to be his Vice-President it will all work out anyway.
------------------------------------------
Cut grass today. Had to get the lawns back in shape before I resume pruning the pines. That will happen tomorrow.
------------------------------------------
A slow news day. Sorry. I'll try to do better tomorrow. Stay well.
Tuesday, June 16, 2020
Gadgets
On days that I golf, I wear my Golf GPS/Fitbit/Watch. Today was one of those days.
I was in the middle of breakfast when it buzzed. I looked down and it was saying "Move!". Holy crap Batman, did Mardi reprogram the damn thing? Is anyone watching me? What just happened? These are definitely scary times!
However, by the end of the golf round I had taken 6552 steps, versus the 5831 target the stupid device told me I needed to take. So, hopefully we'll be on better speaking terms next golf day!
------------------------------------------------------
Mike Pence, Trump's coronavirus captain has declared the pandemic over. The fact that their total deaths are over 120,000 and forecast to get to 200,000 doesn't count. It's all due to testing Mike says.
I didn't know that taking a coronavirus test could cause you to die!
--------------------------------------------
Canada has about 10% of the population of the U.S. Our death count from the virus is less than 7% of theirs. That spread should increase as our infection rates are falling and theirs are rising in almost half of the states.
So, the four year advantage we have in life expectancy should grow slightly larger. And they just don't get it!
----------------------------------------------
I'm very glad that I've got in as much travelling as I have. Mardi and I knocked off Alaska, my 50th state in 2017. Everything in North America is a repeat now, except Nunavut and the North-West Territories.
For the next year or so it will just be Ontario. Won't venture any further until I'm vaccinated.
-----------------------------------------------
Have to go. Time for ice cream (actually ice milk) and berries. Stay well. Stay calm. Be nice.
I was in the middle of breakfast when it buzzed. I looked down and it was saying "Move!". Holy crap Batman, did Mardi reprogram the damn thing? Is anyone watching me? What just happened? These are definitely scary times!
However, by the end of the golf round I had taken 6552 steps, versus the 5831 target the stupid device told me I needed to take. So, hopefully we'll be on better speaking terms next golf day!
------------------------------------------------------
Mike Pence, Trump's coronavirus captain has declared the pandemic over. The fact that their total deaths are over 120,000 and forecast to get to 200,000 doesn't count. It's all due to testing Mike says.
I didn't know that taking a coronavirus test could cause you to die!
--------------------------------------------
Canada has about 10% of the population of the U.S. Our death count from the virus is less than 7% of theirs. That spread should increase as our infection rates are falling and theirs are rising in almost half of the states.
So, the four year advantage we have in life expectancy should grow slightly larger. And they just don't get it!
----------------------------------------------
I'm very glad that I've got in as much travelling as I have. Mardi and I knocked off Alaska, my 50th state in 2017. Everything in North America is a repeat now, except Nunavut and the North-West Territories.
For the next year or so it will just be Ontario. Won't venture any further until I'm vaccinated.
-----------------------------------------------
Have to go. Time for ice cream (actually ice milk) and berries. Stay well. Stay calm. Be nice.
Monday, June 15, 2020
A Beautiful Weather Day!
Started to prune the pines today.
Got down to the first pole in the background, approximately half way - the easy half. Much of the front section slopes, making placement of the ladder problematic. It'll take more time.
I have to thank Sean for taking part of his break time to snap these pictures for me.
---------------------------------------------
When my legs got tired of balancing on the ladder I headed to the back field with the mower to continue to cut grass.
In a few days we'll have water to the back field and the pumpkin patch can proceed to be planted.
------------------------------------------------
Tomorrow it's back to MontHill with the Dofasco League. And more painting of the kitchen tiles.
------------------------------------------------
Stay well. Get ready for your haircuts!
---------------------------------------------
When my legs got tired of balancing on the ladder I headed to the back field with the mower to continue to cut grass.
In a few days we'll have water to the back field and the pumpkin patch can proceed to be planted.
Tomorrow it's back to MontHill with the Dofasco League. And more painting of the kitchen tiles.
------------------------------------------------
Stay well. Get ready for your haircuts!
Sunday, June 14, 2020
Lunch With Family
Painted the kitchen backsplash tiles a first coat of white (they were a pinky tan) and then headed to the greenhouse for a couple of hours. Disposed of the remaining dead cedars and cut some grass in the back field. David will be planting about a half acre of pumpkins so I cut the grass back as far as the tilled soil.
-------------------------------------------------------
Met Kathryn and Anna at the local parkette.
No hugs - Mardi hugged A.J. and Reggie on Thursday, so now (or at least for 14 days) we are part of A.J.'s circle. Not much room for more there!
Chatted for a while before we realized we were hungry. So the four of us headed for Hutch's. Mardi, bless her soul, stood in line for a half hour before being able to place our order. While she was gone we watched a guy maneuver a board while his parachute moved him around.
Looked like it would be pretty tiring!
I was impressed with the social distancing on the beach and in the Hutch's lineups. Nice to see!
We had a nice chat and then it was time for dinner.
A well spent afternoon!
---------------------------------------------------------- Painted a second coat on the tiles after returning home and then it was time for a libation.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Tomorrow it's back to the greenhouse to start pruning the Pine trees. Doing that in mid June while the new growth is still soft gives the tree enough time to harden and set buds for next year.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Stay well. Be nice.
-------------------------------------------------------
Met Kathryn and Anna at the local parkette.
Chatted for a while before we realized we were hungry. So the four of us headed for Hutch's. Mardi, bless her soul, stood in line for a half hour before being able to place our order. While she was gone we watched a guy maneuver a board while his parachute moved him around.
We had a nice chat and then it was time for dinner.
---------------------------------------------------------- Painted a second coat on the tiles after returning home and then it was time for a libation.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Tomorrow it's back to the greenhouse to start pruning the Pine trees. Doing that in mid June while the new growth is still soft gives the tree enough time to harden and set buds for next year.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Stay well. Be nice.
Saturday, June 13, 2020
I'm in Rehab
Got so wound up with yesterday's Systemic Racism piece that I forgot to include a milestone event - Matt and Maureen celebrated their 16th wedding anniversary. Congratulations M & M!
------------------------------------------
Mardi loves to get out on the balcony early in the morning, usually wrapped in a blanket to keep warm. Here are a couple of pictures she took at 5:30 a.m. this morning. The Toronto skyline through the trees...
.......and our Skaevola planter which is doing just fine (if you buy one of these, make sure you keep it well watered - they're beautiful but thirsty devils).
---------------------------------------
Mardi and I golfed at MontHill with Rada Buckley today.
She brought muffins and gorp. Awesome!
Unfortunately John was under the weather and missed a great golf day. Next time John!
In a spirit of generosity I gave Mardi too many strokes and lost the round. Next time Bud!
---------------------------------------------
Will soon be turning the TV on for the first time today, so I'm going to post this before I get upset again.
As they say in B.C., "Stay kind, calm and safe".
------------------------------------------
Mardi loves to get out on the balcony early in the morning, usually wrapped in a blanket to keep warm. Here are a couple of pictures she took at 5:30 a.m. this morning. The Toronto skyline through the trees...
Mardi and I golfed at MontHill with Rada Buckley today.
Unfortunately John was under the weather and missed a great golf day. Next time John!
In a spirit of generosity I gave Mardi too many strokes and lost the round. Next time Bud!
---------------------------------------------
Will soon be turning the TV on for the first time today, so I'm going to post this before I get upset again.
As they say in B.C., "Stay kind, calm and safe".
Friday, June 12, 2020
Systemic Racism
President Trump attended a meeting in Dallas yesterday, supposedly regarding "Policing and Race Relations".
The three top law enforcement officials - the Police Chief, the Sheriff, and the District Attorney - were not invited to participate. Because they're all black?
And all the while Trump's yes men insist that there is no "systemic racism" in America. Give me a break!
--------------------------------------
While we're speaking about systemic racism, let's talk about the RCMP. When I was a kid they were heroes. Then, a few years ago they sold their soul to Disney for money.
And now? If you've seen the video of their attack on Chief Adam for having an expired licence plate tag, it's sickening!
These are no longer heroes! They are an historical anachronism that should be expunged from our psyche! They should just stick to their musical ride in future. Seriously!!! I'm thoroughly disgusted!
----------------------------------------
OK, relax and take a deep breath Bud. Get back to nature.
Dug up about eight Cedars today, pruned some shrubs and the TH yews. Then cut the part of the back field where the Asparagus is found. David and Sue: there is a nice meal waiting to be cut back there - just go up the left side of the field and look for the sprouts that I have cut around. All the way back to where the driveway ends - and watch for one juicy sprout that is up against the side of the weeds just before the end.
-----------------------------------------
Tomorrow it's golf with Rada and John Buckley at MontHill. Should be fun!
-----------------------------------------
Enjoy your new 10 person bubble. But stay safe.
The three top law enforcement officials - the Police Chief, the Sheriff, and the District Attorney - were not invited to participate. Because they're all black?
And all the while Trump's yes men insist that there is no "systemic racism" in America. Give me a break!
--------------------------------------
While we're speaking about systemic racism, let's talk about the RCMP. When I was a kid they were heroes. Then, a few years ago they sold their soul to Disney for money.
And now? If you've seen the video of their attack on Chief Adam for having an expired licence plate tag, it's sickening!
These are no longer heroes! They are an historical anachronism that should be expunged from our psyche! They should just stick to their musical ride in future. Seriously!!! I'm thoroughly disgusted!
----------------------------------------
OK, relax and take a deep breath Bud. Get back to nature.
Dug up about eight Cedars today, pruned some shrubs and the TH yews. Then cut the part of the back field where the Asparagus is found. David and Sue: there is a nice meal waiting to be cut back there - just go up the left side of the field and look for the sprouts that I have cut around. All the way back to where the driveway ends - and watch for one juicy sprout that is up against the side of the weeds just before the end.
-----------------------------------------
Tomorrow it's golf with Rada and John Buckley at MontHill. Should be fun!
-----------------------------------------
Enjoy your new 10 person bubble. But stay safe.
Thursday, June 11, 2020
The NEC.
Today's issue goes to a revised list of recipients. Thanks all for your continued willingness to endure pain!
And, yes Barry, please respond when the spirit strikes you. As Al Knapp observed, the discussion sometimes takes wings of its own and often meanders into very interesting places.
I am indeed fortunate to have some really great friends, as Bonnie has observed from reading the repartee back and forth.
A couple have replied that they will just access the blog in future and that's OK too (maybe they don't like Barry's input 😇).
-------------------------------------------
When David bought the farm and applied to the Niagara Escarpment Commission (and the Town of Grimsby, although they mostly defer to the NEC) for permission to build the greenhouse they had a long list of conditions.
One of which was that tree lines needed to be established on both sides of the property so that the neighbours wouldn't have to look at the greenhouse.
So Pine trees were planted along the eastern border (more about them in a couple of days)...
...and Emerald Cedars along the front section of the western border. As you can see from this picture, the trees that were protected from the prevailing winds on their western flank by the garage and house have done the best.
Across the back of the fence, where the wind dries them out faster, they are noticeably smaller. And there is one section where the trees just couldn't survive.
To protect the neighbour's house from the annual flooding it had experienced, David installed drainage tile along the perimeter and built up the earth where the cedars were planted. But, under the section that has died, there was the remains of an old fire pit. When the roots of the trees reached that toxic level they began to die. Today I managed to haul away about half of them. Hopefully, the rest will go tomorrow.
-----------------------------------------
The NEC didn't like the colour of the trailer frame which was black, so it got painted John Deere green. It is located a quarter mile from the escarpment, but they control to the highway. Oh well, it does look better.
----------------------------------------------
When digging up the cedars got to be too much I switched to cutting the grass behind the greenhouse. The Swallows are back and I feel like the Pied Piper! As the mower moves and stirs up insects the Swallows swoop around me, having a feed. One of my favourite moments!
----------------------------------------------
Tomorrow it's back to the cedars.
Stay safe.
And, yes Barry, please respond when the spirit strikes you. As Al Knapp observed, the discussion sometimes takes wings of its own and often meanders into very interesting places.
I am indeed fortunate to have some really great friends, as Bonnie has observed from reading the repartee back and forth.
A couple have replied that they will just access the blog in future and that's OK too (maybe they don't like Barry's input 😇).
-------------------------------------------
When David bought the farm and applied to the Niagara Escarpment Commission (and the Town of Grimsby, although they mostly defer to the NEC) for permission to build the greenhouse they had a long list of conditions.
One of which was that tree lines needed to be established on both sides of the property so that the neighbours wouldn't have to look at the greenhouse.
So Pine trees were planted along the eastern border (more about them in a couple of days)...
...and Emerald Cedars along the front section of the western border. As you can see from this picture, the trees that were protected from the prevailing winds on their western flank by the garage and house have done the best.
Across the back of the fence, where the wind dries them out faster, they are noticeably smaller. And there is one section where the trees just couldn't survive.
To protect the neighbour's house from the annual flooding it had experienced, David installed drainage tile along the perimeter and built up the earth where the cedars were planted. But, under the section that has died, there was the remains of an old fire pit. When the roots of the trees reached that toxic level they began to die. Today I managed to haul away about half of them. Hopefully, the rest will go tomorrow.
-----------------------------------------
The NEC didn't like the colour of the trailer frame which was black, so it got painted John Deere green. It is located a quarter mile from the escarpment, but they control to the highway. Oh well, it does look better.
----------------------------------------------
When digging up the cedars got to be too much I switched to cutting the grass behind the greenhouse. The Swallows are back and I feel like the Pied Piper! As the mower moves and stirs up insects the Swallows swoop around me, having a feed. One of my favourite moments!
----------------------------------------------
Tomorrow it's back to the cedars.
Stay safe.
Wednesday, June 10, 2020
You Have A Choice
I've been wrestling with the concern I have about filling up mail boxes of people who aren't interested in my verbal meanderings. The email threads were started to make it easier for folks to receive, but they also make more work for the other folks who would like it to stop. So, here is my solution: I will continue to post on the blog - dorsalsdiary.blogspot.com - and will also continue to copy and paste to email. But, now you will have to opt in to get the email. So, if you want to continue on the list please let me know. Otherwise you will be free of my twisted mind, but you could still check on the blog from time to time if you wanted.
--------------------------------------------
Decided to take a day off from golf/greenhouse. Talked the resident barber into cutting my hair. Third time, she's getting pretty good - just one "oops" today!
As payback, I let her win at cards😢.
--------------------------------------------
In a show of optimism we have booked a week of vacation. Had some timeshare points that would have expired this year, so we've booked a studio unit at Shell Vacations Club @ Carriage Hills Resort, which I think is one of the properties at which Barbara and Jo-Ann own time, for the first week of September. It's located at Horseshoe Valley and golf is nearby.
---------------------------------------------
Just because they have relaxed the rules doesn't mean the pandemic is over. It just means they have room for you in the ICU. Stay safe.
--------------------------------------------
Decided to take a day off from golf/greenhouse. Talked the resident barber into cutting my hair. Third time, she's getting pretty good - just one "oops" today!
As payback, I let her win at cards😢.
--------------------------------------------
In a show of optimism we have booked a week of vacation. Had some timeshare points that would have expired this year, so we've booked a studio unit at Shell Vacations Club @ Carriage Hills Resort, which I think is one of the properties at which Barbara and Jo-Ann own time, for the first week of September. It's located at Horseshoe Valley and golf is nearby.
---------------------------------------------
Just because they have relaxed the rules doesn't mean the pandemic is over. It just means they have room for you in the ICU. Stay safe.
Tuesday, June 9, 2020
Post Mortem
Yesterday's post drew some thoughtful comments. And Kathryn's response would seem to prove the white privilege theory. It also shows that Hamilton Police are perhaps trained and directed in a better way.
Regarding the white privilege theory, I wonder how my other daughters, Barbara and Jo-Ann would have fared in Kathryn's circumstance. Maybe not so well, particularly in some parts of the province.
Interestingly, when they both worked for Six Nations, they were subjected to reverse discrimination from the traditional side of the community because they had lived off Six Nations for most of their lives. Sadly, even within races there is discrimination.
As far as the Hamilton Police are concerned, it's worth noting that Mardi's son A.J. and granddaughter Reggie occasionally join up with a member of the force to hand out the touques that Mardi knits along with Tim cards. The female police officer knows the homeless by name and looks out for their welfare. Kudos to A.J. for teaching Reggie a life lesson while helping those who need a hand up.
--------------------------------------------------
Today was golf day at MontHill. They now have plastic dividers on the carts so that two unrelated people can ride together.
Calvin was my riding partner.
Following the golf game, Matt brought out the first aid (beer and pop). We met at our new gathering place behind the 9th green on the Gold 9.
Thanks Matt!
A hot day, but a good one.
-----------------------------------------------------
I have had my first request to delete a recipient from the blog. If anyone else would like to follow suit please let me know. No hard feelings - I have been torn between carrying on and quitting, knowing that some are tired of getting inundated by emails, while others seem to enjoy the connections. Best if the list only has the latter so I don't have to feel guilty.
------------------------------------------------------
Tomorrow is a greenhouse day. May not be much news. Stay well.
Regarding the white privilege theory, I wonder how my other daughters, Barbara and Jo-Ann would have fared in Kathryn's circumstance. Maybe not so well, particularly in some parts of the province.
Interestingly, when they both worked for Six Nations, they were subjected to reverse discrimination from the traditional side of the community because they had lived off Six Nations for most of their lives. Sadly, even within races there is discrimination.
As far as the Hamilton Police are concerned, it's worth noting that Mardi's son A.J. and granddaughter Reggie occasionally join up with a member of the force to hand out the touques that Mardi knits along with Tim cards. The female police officer knows the homeless by name and looks out for their welfare. Kudos to A.J. for teaching Reggie a life lesson while helping those who need a hand up.
--------------------------------------------------
Today was golf day at MontHill. They now have plastic dividers on the carts so that two unrelated people can ride together.
Following the golf game, Matt brought out the first aid (beer and pop). We met at our new gathering place behind the 9th green on the Gold 9.
Thanks Matt!
-----------------------------------------------------
I have had my first request to delete a recipient from the blog. If anyone else would like to follow suit please let me know. No hard feelings - I have been torn between carrying on and quitting, knowing that some are tired of getting inundated by emails, while others seem to enjoy the connections. Best if the list only has the latter so I don't have to feel guilty.
------------------------------------------------------
Tomorrow is a greenhouse day. May not be much news. Stay well.
Monday, June 8, 2020
A Tipping Point
OK. Let's have a show of hands. With all that Trump has said and done, who thought that police brutality would be one of the big election issues?
I continue to believe that the demonstrations and anger wouldn't be so large and continuous if Trump hadn't set the stage with all his hard right rhetoric. I'm sure he wouldn't want to take credit for it, but any improvement in policing is going to be at least partly because of his opposing stance. Ironic!
In Canada, it seems that our vaunted RCMP need some different policies as well. Although we don't know the full story, beating a former elected tribal chief for having an expired car license tag seems a bit over the top. Any of you white folks guilty of this offence? Been beaten or shot at by cops lately?
If changes are made here, part of the reason may very well be that we simply want to look better than Trump and the U.S. If so, I'm OK with that - just get it done.
---------------------------------------------
In the meantime, one of our most pressing issues is the need for hairdos and haircuts. Looks like Hamilton and Niagara are going to have to wait for a few more weeks to solve that problem.
One of the unfortunate results of this could be an exodus to the rural areas where hair salons are allowed to open. Could make the spread of COVID-19 even worse.
-----------------------------------------------
Spent some time today moving empty skids that once held bags of soil. Put the remaining skids all in a neat row, but by the time I finished another skid was empty. David says that the volume he and other garden centres are moving is way more than any other year. Suppliers are rationing shipments because they can't keep up.
------------------------------------------------
Golfing tomorrow. Stay well. Keep calm. Be thankful.
I continue to believe that the demonstrations and anger wouldn't be so large and continuous if Trump hadn't set the stage with all his hard right rhetoric. I'm sure he wouldn't want to take credit for it, but any improvement in policing is going to be at least partly because of his opposing stance. Ironic!
In Canada, it seems that our vaunted RCMP need some different policies as well. Although we don't know the full story, beating a former elected tribal chief for having an expired car license tag seems a bit over the top. Any of you white folks guilty of this offence? Been beaten or shot at by cops lately?
If changes are made here, part of the reason may very well be that we simply want to look better than Trump and the U.S. If so, I'm OK with that - just get it done.
---------------------------------------------
In the meantime, one of our most pressing issues is the need for hairdos and haircuts. Looks like Hamilton and Niagara are going to have to wait for a few more weeks to solve that problem.
One of the unfortunate results of this could be an exodus to the rural areas where hair salons are allowed to open. Could make the spread of COVID-19 even worse.
-----------------------------------------------
Spent some time today moving empty skids that once held bags of soil. Put the remaining skids all in a neat row, but by the time I finished another skid was empty. David says that the volume he and other garden centres are moving is way more than any other year. Suppliers are rationing shipments because they can't keep up.
------------------------------------------------
Golfing tomorrow. Stay well. Keep calm. Be thankful.
OMG! I Have Readers!
I missed posting yesterday because there was no interesting news, I didn't want to just fill space, and frankly I was wondering how many of the folks on the mailing list really cared any more.
Apparently one of my daughters and my brother do! (I'm not sure if Ron King cares or if he just doesn't have anything else to do, but I take his threat seriously!)
And my camera is back among the living. I turned it on and let the battery totally drain. Scared it into submission! Recharged, it seems OK now.
------------------------------
Today we golfed with Matt and Maureen, her first time out with us since she had another stent inserted last month. She just crushed the ball today - I'll have to look into that stent thing!
For me it was a good day too. Just 6 strokes over my age! Despite that, my dear wife only took pictures of the result of one my bad swings.
Had to waste a shot getting back on the fairway. The green is through the trees to the right.
Sorry about the golf story Roger. Beautiful weather - you should get out of your basement more often!
------------------------------
So, who do you want to see as Joe Biden's pick for VP? My choice would be Kamala Harris. Former prosecutor, very articulate, and tough when needed. And she has black and indigenous DNA. If chosen, she could very well end up being the first female President of the U.S. Sounds good to me!
------------------------------
Till tomorrow (probably). Stay well. Don't break anything else in the house Barbara! Miss you guys.
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