ger_77

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! Sure hope the hernia is caught early in a child's life, respect to John Parker and anyone involved in wars, and oh my gosh, what would the world be without garlic? I used 5 cloves in last night's lemon garlic shrimp pasta and could have used more. @kazusafe travels today; I hope you and your BFF enjoy your cruise to the fullest! @RMLincolnprayers for an easy transition for your DSIL; waiting is difficult. @Mr. Bostongood luck with your move! @Haljo1935is there a neighbour you could call on to care for your kitty? We have a Ragdoll who is v-e-r-y social and for our absences of about a week, have a neighbour come in twice a day to feed her and scoop the litter box. For longer trips, we hire one of her sons to live in; that way it keeps the insurance people happy that the house isn't vacant, and Sochi is happy also. @JazzyVhang in there girl, relief is in sight - I hope you get relief from your pain with your upcoming surgery. @smitty34877sending good vibes your way for comfort for Tana, and rest for you; your tank must be almost empty. It might have stopped snowing, we can't be sure. Listening to the radio, it appears the highways in and out of the city are listed as "travel not recommended" due to ice and low visibility. One fellow just reported that coming from one of the bedroom communities about 20 miles away, there were 5 cars and 2 semis in the ditch between his house and the city. SO glad we don't have to go anywhere. Our shoveler showed up again yesterday and he'll be needed again today; it's April 19th, the snow has to stop soon!!! Yesterday we called the TAVR clinic and spoke with the coordinator who told us that 2 weeks ago when DH's case was to be presented before the provincial panel, the cardiologist who was to present it was ill with pneumonia, so it didn't happen. Another meet is scheduled for this coming week and after listening to what DH had to say about how he feels himself deteriorating, she said she would put him on the "urgent" list and is hopeful that he will be able to get the aortic valve implant by the end of May. Prayers that it will be! Not much on our agenda; while we stopped at the Walmarts along the way to and from Calgary, I picked up some additional fabric that I can put to use for making coasters. I've washed, dried and ironed(I never iron anything except when I'm sewing) the fabric, so today I think I'll spend time cutting out the pieces and getting them ready for assembly-line sewing. I'm going to pass on the drink of the day, think the wine would be quite sweet (Juicy Fruit), and will pass on the menu suggestion. It's Friday night pizza night here, so later this afternoon we'll check the online menus to see what cheesy goodness will be served at our kitchen table tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in grief, and in turmoil. Cheers to all with celebrations. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! Through our various travels we've seen many monuments and sites, I love the taste of animal crackers, and we do appreciate linemen who have dangerous jobs that the rest of us wouldn't want to tackle. Aaannnddd it's still snowing. Argh. I thought when I went to bed last night that it would stop, but today there's a strong wind blowing with it as well, and listening to the radio, it appears highways around the city are in terrible condition. The only saving graces are that it isn't frigidly cold, only -6C (21), and that the snow is thick, wet and heavy which means it will provide much needed moisture for the farmers and forests. Yesterday afternoon the doorbell rang and our sweet young man was there with his shovel, letting us know he was going to do the driveway, sidewalks and patio. What a gem. Happy Birthday @sailingdutchy's DW Martha, @Cruzin Terri's DH Jim and @StLouisCruisers niece Lisa; I wish you all many happy returns of the day. @kazuI'm delighted to hear your physician gave you the go-ahead for your cruise, and that your foot issue caused by a pedicure is able to be healed. We were lazy yesterday, didn't do a whole lot with the weather other than laundry. I found a half loaf of bread in the freezer so that meant we didn't have to even go out for groceries, but we definitely need to do that today or Sochi will be looking to gnaw on one of our fingers for sustenance. Other than that there's not much planned for us, just hanging around and living life. I'd like to try the drink of the day - one would suffice I'm sure! Pretty sure I'd enjoy the wine, and wow on the menu suggestion. I'd probably cheat a big and buy a tub of spinach/artichoke dip and use that instead of making it from scratch. Tonight I'm making something I haven't done in a while - DH has asked for lemon garlic shrimp pasta which we'll have with a side salad at our kitchen table. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in grief, and in turmoil. Cheers to all with celebrations happening. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! Ellis Island was such an important place for so many families who were seeking a new and better life. I wasn't a mustang girl, my pride and joy was a 1973 AMC Javelin; it had a 360 V8 that went v-e-r-y fast! I'm back, and after returning home through rain that changed to snow, I was able to speed read through last week's posts. WOW, did I miss a lot! First of all, my heartfelt condolences to @atexsix, @puppycanducruise and @Mr. Boston on your losses. @Gsel and @LambKnuckleswelcome to the Daily; it's always nice to see new people join the group. @kazuOh my, you poor thing! I'm sending healing vibes and good thoughts for your medical appt tomorrow; you just can't seem to catch a break! @superoma congratulations on the new little one to cuddle and welcome to little Laine Alanna! @kochleffel and @marshhawk we're going to have to special order bubble wrap online and have it delivered to the two of you! While in Calgary I received word that my best friend from high school (we were inseparable, as we were two Gerry's - she was Gerrie though - and were each other's bridesmaids/matrons of honour at our weddings) had passed away from a brief battle with cancer. And a day later, another friend from high school texted me to say another classmate had died of ALS. Sad, but we're reaching that stage of our lives where we're having to say goodbye to dear friends and just cherish the memories of time spent together. We had a great time in Calgary with our family; it was a whirlwind of activity. The birthday boy said he'd rather have 2 gifts and a meal at the restaurant of his choice, than a regular birthday party, so that's what happened. He received 2 large Lego sets (one of the flower bouquets designed for 18+, and a Star Wars set), and we went to a great sushi restaurant for the celebration. Of course we took the little one (age 4) from his daycare to we could spend time with him, and went shopping. You forget how exciting life is for a 4 year old just driving down the freeway: "Grandma, look, a dump truck! An ambulance! A garbage truck! A police car with his lights and sirens going past us!" Thankfully the latter went past us. LOL When we got up yesterday morning we were greeted with about 4 inches of wet, heavy snow; it took DH almost 30 minutes to get the car cleared off so we could leave. Along the drive (6 hours) we encountered rain, snow, rain, sleet, and finally more rain as we drove into Saskatoon. This morning we woke up to everything covered in white thick heavy snow, just like yesterday's in Calgary and we're expecting to have it continue for the next 48 hours, dropping a possible 15cm's (6") when it's done. Sigh. Springtime on the "frozen tundra". Today we have to get groceries (as I cleaned out the fridge before we left) to pick up essentials, and then it's time to do the laundry. Mundane, but back to our routine again. While we were away I did manage to make 3 more blankets (our oldest had watched a crocheting demo on You Tube and asked if he could help with a few stitches - he did an admirable job for a novice!), and was able to stop at the Walmarts along our trip both ways to purchase more yarn, so I'm set for a while now. I'd like to try the drink, am pretty sure I'd like the wine, an oh my, I'd love to try the pie. I do like rhubarb pie - as does DH, so I'm going to take a close look at those recipes. First night home means we're going to have a simple meal - panko crusted air fried salmon, mini baked potatoes and coleslaw will be what's happening at our kitchen table tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in turmoil, and in wars. Cheers to all who have celebrations going on today. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! I had to look up Jenkins Ear Day ... ouch!! I love elephants, and feel sorry for poor Jumbo being paraded around like that. I'll cherish the antique I'm married to. Thank you for the anniversary wishes, it's hard to believe it's been 47 years that we've been together. As I said on my FB post this morning, things have been better, they've been worse; we've been richer and we've been poorer, but through it all we've loved and laughed, and we are truly blessed. Here we are in all our finery at our tiny wedding in my in-law's living room (only 18 in attendance). @luvteaching I know today is a bittersweet day for you as you celebrate your birthday and also it should have been your 47th wedding anniversary. I hope the memories of the years and times you shared will bring you some comfort. Sending you hugs across the miles. @grapau27good luck at your skin cancer check-up today. @rafinmdI hope the cardiologist appointment meant things were on an even keel for you. @Quartzsite Cruiserhoping all goes well for DH's CT scan today. This morning we are heading out to a lovely restaurant by the river called Scarlet where we've gone - with the exception of the 2 Covid years, and the 2 when we were in Japan - every year on our anniversary. When we were working, we'd both take the day off, go for breakfast and enjoy watching all the people going by as they were headed off to work while we were relaxing with a nicely served breakfast and coffee. Looking at the memories section of FB, on this day in 2012 and 2016 we were in Tokyo - the first time so I could officiate our son's wedding, and the second so that the Japanese grandparents could meet their first grandchild. Great memories of both experiences. I'd love to try the drink, but bet that bartenders wouldn't enjoy making it - they want to do it quick and easy, while this takes "less than 5 minutes" which in bartending minutes is a long time! I'll pass on the wine, but do enjoy broccoli and cheese egg muffins. The kitchen is closed in our house today, so we'll be enjoying something delicious that is prepared and served by others at a lovely Greek restaurant tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in grief, and in turmoil. Cheers to all with celebrations. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! In high school, our DS was part of the D.A.R.E. group and was shunned by a number of others at the school because of his affiliation. Interestingly enough, I saw some of those same classmates in my courtroom for having engaged in drugs and dealing, so what goes around comes around. I'm still proud of his standing and ethics; it couldn't have been easy for a teenager. Can someone please draw a bird for me? I have no artistic ability. The Romani culture is an interesting one to be sure. Right now it's only partially cloudy, but according to the weather app, it is likely to be cloudy most of the day. That's the way it's been here for absolutely ever - you have no idea how many celestial events we've missed because of clouds. I guess the positive part is that I'll save my eyesight by watching the eclipse on television. Happy Birthday to @StLouisCruisers, DS Linda, and to @Norseh2o; I hope you have a great day of celebration. Happy Anniversary to @erewhon and @Overhead Fred; wishing you and your spouses many more years of love and laughter together. Not much on the agenda today except getting the car washed and an oil change so it's ready for us to head off to Calgary on Wednesday. I'm going to take a pass on the drink of the day, as it makes my teeth hurt just thinking about it! The wine may be good, but a little pricey, and if I was making today's menu suggestion, I'd leave out the artichokes. I need to use up some things in the fridge, so tonight it's going to be Denver omelettes and fruit bread toast for us at the kitchen table. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in grief, and in wars not of their making. Cheers to all our Daily family who are celebrating today. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

@Haljo1935yikes on the prices! What's the 0.99 surcharge for? For the privilege of buying their stuff???

Good morning, thank you for the Fleet Report and Daily! We have beavers in our city and as a result, many trees along the river have wire skirts so they can't be taken down. We still get the newspaper, but it's down to 5 days a week; I did google snail papers and it refers to custom rolling papers if you "roll your own". I'm used to the metric system, but vacillate between metric and imperial measures all the time. A quiet Sunday morning right now with cloudy skies and no wind. As I opened the curtains this morning I realized our front lawn is almost clear of snow, while the neighbours across the street still have tons on theirs. Not sure why, as we received the same amount as they did. Our front lawn faces east while theirs faces west, but other than that I don't know what the reason would be for theirs not melting as quickly. Even our back yard (which faces west) is clearing nicely - not enough that we can work in the yard, but the glaciers are definitely receding. Bon Voyage @Heartgrove's DW and DSIL, @Vict0riannand Pat, and @Overhead Fred; I hope you all have wonderful cruises. @smitty34877your teenager seems to be a good help to you around the house, starting to cook and helping with the clean-up. He sounds like a sweet guy, although I'm sure he has his moments, too. @kazuhave you had any relief from your pain with the acupuncture treatments yet? It was good to get together with our friends Wayne & Fran yesterday for brunch, just catching up on the past 3 weeks. They said over Easter with family they'd played "Catch Phrase" which turned out to be quite funny, so I think the next time we're together, that might be part of the evening's entertainment. On the way back we stopped at Ollie's just to check in on her. Thankfully about a month ago she and Gord adopted a new kitty - tabby/Maine Coon cross - and she's been a great comfort for Ollie. I'm so glad they have each other. Today at noon I'm heading out to get my nails done so I don't have to worry about breakage, or having to file them down while we're in Calgary, and I'll be dropping my thoughts on Gord off to a friend who will read on my behalf at the memorial on Friday. I'd like to try the drink of the day, but unlike so many, am not a real fan of key lime pie. I'll pass on the white wine, and I use my own made-up recipe for potato salad using Miracle Whip and dry mustard in the dressing. My mom always sweetened the mayonnaise and finally just used Miracle Whip instead, so that's what I use. I don't feel like cooking today so on the way back from dropping off my envelope to our friend, we'll stop and pick up some burgers to enjoy at the kitchen table tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in grief, in turmoil, and in wars. Cheers to all who have celebrations today. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Not sure if I can make it for sail-away or not, we're heading out for brunch with friends at 1 (3PM FLL time). Smooth sailing to all today!

We had dinner at Carrabba's last time we were in FLL (last year) and enjoyed it; it was similar to Olive Garden. What hotel are you staying at? I was thinking it was the Hyatt which is just a hop, skip and a jump from the Outback, but it sounds like you're farther away than that. @aliaschiefthanks a bunch for the photos from the Gardens By The Bay - one of our favourite places ever! We can't wait to get back there and enjoy it again.

Bon Voyage Lisa and Tom; have a wonderful cruise!!

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! Until we got cable, I had never heard of Charlie the Tuna. Drowsy drivers are as dangerous as drunk ones. DH always lets me know when he's starting to lose his concentration on the highway and we quickly pull over and switch places. I've never had a passion for Twinkies; for me it was one and done. I remember bringing rolls and rolls of film along for our cameras on vacations over the years. Bright sunshine out there this morning and we're above freezing again - yay! Currently +4(39) with a predicted high of +15 (59) means a lot of the snow will be disappearing. As I opened the curtains to the front yard I could see a noticeable improvement just from yesterday's warmth and it will soon be time to get the rake out to remove the debris left from the junipers over the winter. Welcome home to all our Daily cruisers - I hope you came back with wonderful memories. While DH was away with his kids yesterday I accomplished a lot - 3 loads of laundry washed, dried and put away; vacuumed the entire main floor; ran the cleaner through the dishwasher; vacuum sealed 12 packages of chicken breasts; removed, recharged and replaced our doorbell camera, and walked a mile on the treadmill. I figured it was time to bring it out again, as I've neglected it for so long, so when I was downstairs doing laundry, I turned on the TV and walked. Not a lot on the agenda for us today, but we're meeting our friends Wayne & Fran for brunch around 1. I feel bad that we haven't seen them for some time, but we've been busy with Ollie and Gord, and I know they understand. It will be good to catch up with them and talk about happy things. I would try the drink if someone made it for me, I've had the wine and enjoyed it, and we do like rotisserie chicken, although I've never made one. We've got an air fryer but it doesn't have the rotisserie feature - I'm sure it would be fine just in the tray though. I've got a couple of salmon fillets thawing right now that will be coated in panko crumbs and baked, and will be served along with air fried asparagus and baked potatoes at the kitchen table tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in path of storms or earthquakes(!), in grief, and in wars. Cheers to all with celebrations. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Late departure means a quiet sail-away.

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! I will definitely honour Gold Star Spouses and will include a gentle hug for each. Some days you just have to give it your all and go for broke. Ever wonder if some folks just don't have a conscience? The skies have cleared and the sun is coming up, but I see we've got wind again, which in itself will help tame down the glaciers. Looking at the computer it tells me we should expect a high of +14C (57) which is fine by me. Yesterday it began raining around 10 and carried on until almost 5; it was great to see water running down the street again. Today on the radio people are talking about how attitudes in rural areas have changed dramatically with the rain, and I can understand why. @NextOne wishing you a very Happy Birthday with many happy and healthy returns of the day! @lobsternightBon Voyage! Today DH and his son and daughter will head out to the son's acreage just to do a check on the property. On the way they'll stop at the lady's place to drop off our income tax information so she can work her magic (fingers crossed) again this year. While he's away I'll do some clean up around the house and will likely head over to WM to pick up cat food and a couple of incidentals as well. We were with Ollie yesterday as she made arrangements for the venue for Gord's celebration of life. Unfortunately it will be next week while we're away in Calgary - the only time she could accommodate her brother from Ontario. Normally we would have cancelled our trip, but we traditionally go to Calgary to celebrate our oldest DGS's birthday and we don't want to disappoint him. Also, it's just going to be an hour of people sitting together reminiscing - there's no real service to speak of because that's what Gord wanted. I told Ollie I would script our message so that someone else could read it on our behalf and she was comfortable with that. She knows how close we are as a family, even though she and hers aren't, so wasn't bothered that we couldn't attend. We know she'll be surrounded by family and friends, so although we feel bad about missing the service, we know Ollie will be alright. I'd give the drink and the wine a pass, as well as the menu suggestion, so it's 3 for 3 today. Yesterday I looked at the recipes and decided to make the first one shown and it was delicious. I used plain white rice without the chicken broth, and didn't have fresh thyme, so used dried instead, but it turned out nicely. That's definitely a casserole that would be great for breakfast guests! For us it's Friday night pizza night, so when DH gets back this afternoon we'll check the online menus and order something hot and cheesy to enjoy at the kitchen table tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in grief, and in wars not of their making. Cheers to all with celebrations. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! Jeep 4x4 riding can be fun, but the topless days are limited here on the "frozen tundra." I will honour all victims of violence, and clearly remember the day MLK was killed. We usually have oranges in the morning, so that takes care of our vitamin C - if we feel a cold coming on, we pop a couple of tablets throughout the day. It's cloudy out there this morning and according to the forecast, we "should" have rain for a few hours around lunch time. I don't mind it at all, because it means it's not snowing and blowing. I'm sorry to hear about the storms in the US and Canada, and feel for everyone in their paths. Today is a day for gathering up all our income tax documents, packaging them and making arrangements to deliver them to the lady who performs her magic annually. She's a farmer's wife with amazing accounting expertise, and over the years has saved us literally thousands of dollars. She lives about an hour out of the city and we're more than happy to make the drive for her service. I don't know if we'll get there today or tomorrow, but the sooner the better in my mind. I'm happy to hear our Daily family and extended family are safe in Taiwan after the earthquake. Also pleased to hear that Tana had a better night - continued prayers for her, @smitty34877's whole family, and particularly Tana's son. @dfish I'm glad you went to get your eye checked yesterday; at least you know what you're dealing with. @Seasick SailorI am praying Allen's biopsy results come back favourably, and that the cream helps quell the itching. @Nickelpennyyou are hesitant to get a knee replacement; you sound like my DH who complained bitterly about his until he finally relented and went for one. 3 months after the surgery we were walking all over the streets of Tokyo and he was so pleased he had the surgery. It's worth thinking about. I'd like to try the drink of the day (will add it to my list), will let others enjoy the white wine, and could get into today's menu suggestion. I grew up eating leftovers - we didn't have much money, so any food there was, was eaten. My darling mother was very creative with leftovers so every meal looked different, even though it might contain the same basic ingredients. For that reason, we're definitely having leftovers tonight. I'm going to slice up cold baked potatoes, fry them in a little butter with green onions until browned, then heat up the ham and will make a coleslaw for us to enjoy at the kitchen table tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in grief, and in wars not of their making. Cheers to all with celebrations. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! I've never seen a fan dance, would love to see a rainbow because it means it would have rained, and what would movies be without the film score? Today's quote rings true for many individuals in public life. Bon Voyage @SusieKIslandGirl and DH Loren - have a wonderful time! @smitty34877I'm sorry to hear Tana's condition has deteriorated. Will continue prayers for the best possible outcome for her. I'm so glad you finally had a night of sleep. @JazzyVspeaking of sleep, I don't know how you manage; I'd be a zombie if I tried getting along with 2 or 3 hours of sleep nightly. @RMLincolnI'm happy to hear DH's eye has settled and there's hope for saving his sight! @summer slopesending prayers for your friends Mike and Sue; I do hope he's able to be released from hospital so they can make their way home. @dfishif your eye doesn't get better, maybe drop into a medi-clinic to get it checked out. The sun is starting to shine and looking and the forecast, we're starting to get out of the winter temps. Currently we're sitting at 2C(35F), but the predicted high is for a whopping 19C (66), which should really make the glaciers recede a foot or two from the back and front yards! Not a lot on the agenda today except a trip to the family physician for DH's bi-monthly blood check up, etc. Still no word from the valve replacement clinic, so we just bide our time. Maybe the doctor today can get some info for us, we'll see. I'd love to have one of the salted caramel martinis - sounds like a great dessert drink! Today's wine would be acceptable - and I think the description meant it was nice to have a glass outdoors in the evening under a cozy blanket. I like today's menu suggestion, but have never been successful at cooking steak - nor has DH, so as a result the only time we have steak is at the Pinnacle on a BHB. We've got leftover hard boiled eggs from Easter that need to be used, so I'll be making them into egg salad sandwiches that we'll have along with some turkey soup(from the freezer again) at the kitchen table tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in grief, and in wars, not of their making. Special prayers to the people of Taiwan and to the innocents in Gaza. Cheers to all with celebrations today. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Our first ever cruise was July, 1989 to the Eastern Caribbean on Carnival's Jubilee. Ports over the 7 days were Nassau, San Juan, and St. Thomas. I was hooked from the beginning.

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! I find ferrets too wyley and cunning, and they're awfully quick - much prefer cats. We have pretty good produce managers at the grocery stores near us, but nothing competes with the farmer's market. Love peanut butter and jelly - it goes on anything flat: crackers, bread, toast, waffles, pancakes . . . . Thank you all for your beautiful words of condolence yesterday; they were so appreciated. I'm not that great of a person, just that when I see others in need, I'm willing to help in any way. I'm blessed to have such a sweet support group like you to help buoy me up in dark times. Having re-read yesterday's post, I have to apologize for the lengthy diatribe; I could have simply said Gord had passed away and I was there to support Ollie, end of story, rather than going into detail. The house is quiet, but yesterday I did get all the beds stripped, some of the laundry done, and all but a few fingerprints wiped off the coffee tables. I'm almost hesitant to take the last of them off, as they are a great reminder of the little people and their presence. Today is a day to finish the laundry, do a once-over with the vacuum and to relax - there might even be a nap in the afternoon for both of us. LOL @smitty34877I'm sorry to hear Tana had a bad night; I'm glad you've got a call in to the hospice nurse, especially when you know the cough sounds different. Prayers that everything turns our alright for her, and please try to get some rest when the aide is there. I'd like to try the drink, but seriously, how many bars carry lavender syrup? Pretty sure I'd like the drink, and a healthy French toast casserole? Sure. We'll go with that. I like breakfast casseroles, but don't care for the flavours of almond or oat milk, so will continue to make them (as infrequently as I do) with regular 2% milk. As for us, we've got leftovers from Easter dinner to work on, so it'll be warmed up ham and baked potatoes along with freshly cooked asparagus (it was on sale, and I bought WAY too much!) at the kitchen table tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in grief, and in wars. Special prayers to the aid workers killed in the air strike in Gaza - as if things there weren't horrible enough!!! Cheers to all with celebrations today. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Rabbit, rabbit, white rabbit. Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! No tom foolery happening here today, and I hope April Fool's day is a quiet one for everyone. The quote is pretty cynical; how unfortunate that she was seeking the happiness that was just so elusive. Yesterday morning started with shreiks of delight as the Easter Bunny made his appearance and left treats all over the house. We got the kids settled with breakfast, then I started getting things together for our early dinner (4:30PM). I had just unwrapped the ham and was putting it into the roaster when the phone rang; it was a number I didn't recognize, but thought I should answer it. It was the social worker calling from the hospital asking if I could come in to support Ollie. I hastily tossed the ham in the oven on low, wrote out a few cryptic notes as to what should happen for the rest of the meal and drove over to the hospital with my wheels barely touching the pavement. Gord had not progressed at all, and the CT scan showed extreme damage to his heart; combined with the fact that he had not had a heart beat for 12 full minutes on Thursday at home meant that there was no hope for his recovery. I stayed at CCU with Ollie, talking to Gord, reminiscing about the times we spent together, and generally being there for both of them. We laughed, we talked, we cried, and we prayed. And at one point Ollie said to me "Do you think it's time?" I replied that the decision was hers as to whether or not she wanted the medical interventions to cease. She did, but couldn't tell the nurses, so I relayed the information for her. From the time the machines were disconnected to the time he took his last breath was less than 2 minutes. So sad, as there was still so much they wanted to do as a couple, now Ollie is on her own. I drove her home and offered to spend the night with her, but she declined, saying she wanted to be alone. On my return home, the kitchen was bustling with activity - getting the ham carved, retrieving the baked potatoes, vegetables, etc., and the table was already beautifully set. DH and our lovely DDIL Noriko did a great job of pulling it all together for us. My sister in law arrived, as did DH's adult children, so there were 10 of us around the dining table for Easter Dinner. This morning the family got up, packed everything up (the back of their SUV looked like the Clampitt's moving to Bev-er-lee!), and started on their way back to Calgary. Now the house is eerily quiet, but we'll be heading that way in less than 2 weeks, as we always go to Calgary to celebrate our oldest DGS Logan's birthday - he'll be turning 9 on the 11th. @ottahand7sending you virtual hugs as you struggle to get through today. @kazuI'm so pleased that you've got care for Ivan taken care of; what a big burden off your shoulders! Today it's laundry, getting the house back into shape, doing a bit of vacuuming, and just breathing. Late in the day we'll head over to Ollie's to see how she's doing and to see what we can do to help. Although we've got lots of leftovers, we'll be picking up roast beef sandwiches and Tim Horton's coffee to enjoy at Ollie's kitchen table tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, and in grief. Cheers to all who have celebrations today. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! Happy Easter to all who celebrate; for those who don't, I wish you a Happy Sunday so you can enjoy the day. Gosh, I haven't used a bunsen burner since high school chemistry. A big salute to Czesar Chavez for his work as a civil rights advocate. I'm a hugger, but don't know any medievalists. I wish I had better news about Gord, but there isn't any today. Yesterday the doctors were hoping to lessen the sedation to see how his body would tolerate it, and it didn't go as well as hoped. Late yesterday they did a CT scan and by evening there weren't any results, so Ollie went home. Upon arrival, a nurse called to say they would like to have her come in for an appointment this morning at 10; I'm dreading it as much as she is. I will drive her over there and will stay as long as I can. Ollie does drive, but Maurice and I feel that's one thing she shouldn't have to worry about, since at least one of us can take her there. She always takes a taxi home, as she's never certain when she'll go home. We've invited her for Easter dinner today so she's not alone all day; sometimes just being in the company of others can lighten your heart a little. I have to be careful walking on the main floor, as the Easter Bunny paid our house a visit last night. Our son was out with friends, so I got out our stash of Easter treats and put them all over the kitchen, living room, dining room and hallway, and when I got up this morning I saw there were many more in different places. It's a fun time and I really can't wait for both boys to get up. @sailingdutchyBon Voyage; enjoy your cruise! @kazuFingers crossed that today's interview goes well. @kochleffelsorry to hear about your tumble; hopefully you're not too sore today. @Seasick Sailorhow is Ollie today? Hope he doesn't have any side effects from that darn placker!! Busy day today, I have 3 pies to bake, then the ham, I'll do a bunch of baked potatoes in the air fryer, then get the table set, etc. I'll enlist the help of our DDIL to do some small things, as she won't do anything unless I ask. I think she doesn't want to interfere with a well oiled machine. LOL I'd love to try the drink (putting it on the list for our BHB next year!), despite the high falutin' name of the wine, it isn't pricey, and it's red, so yes!! Think I'll pass on the menu suggestion, but I know we'll be enjoying a nice baked ham dinner with 10 family and friends who have become family around the dining table tonight. And wine. Lots of wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, cheers to all with celebrations. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

@summer slope I saw this and immediately thought of you.

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! God bless the doctors in our world - what would we do without them??? I thought Earth Hour was last week, but maybe we can convince our household it's Earth Hour at 8PM and everyone will go to bed. Yeah, right. LOL There just might be some laundry folding here today, as a certain 4 year old spilled a glass of juice on himself and a good portion of his brother yesterday. Thank you for your prayers and concern for our friend Gord; at this time he's stable, in an induced coma and on a ventilator. The doctors said yesterday they may try to reduce the sedation to see how his body tolerates it, and if all goes well, may extubate him tomorrow. We keep our prayers going for his recovery, and for our sweet friend Ollie as well, as she doesn't have any family close by, so we're stepping in for them. @summer slope I'm glad there aren't any new aches for you today; treat yourself gently, as your body has been through quite a trauma. I forgot to ask if your DH was injured in any way? How was your golf cart after the incident? Wishing a very Happy Birthday to @Suslor and @cruzn single, with many happy and healthy returns of the day! Bon Voyage to @ocean sounds, enjoy your cruise! @kazuI hope the stress of finding a dog sitter for Ivan is quickly brought to a close so you can relax again and look forward to your cruise. Speaking of cruises, I'm delighted to be a part of so many Daily-ites going on the trans-Atlantic in 2025; it will be lovely to put faces and voices to the names we're so accustomed to seeing here on the boards. Quiet time right now as the rest of the house is still asleep. Soon little feet will be running down the hallway to find me and it'll be time for Grandma's special breakfast again, and lots of fun and games. The boys want to take us out to their dad's favourite burger place for lunch, so we'll go there and enjoy burgers and milkshakes with them. Following lunch DH and I will head over to Ollie's and take her to the hospital so she can be with Gord for a few hours. After that we'll be colouring Easter eggs, something we haven't done in a very long time. I think I'm looking forward to it as much as the boys are. I'm going to take a pass on the drink; I'm a purist when it comes to beer. I'd like to try the Cava, as I do enjoy a sparkling wine from time to time. Today's menu suggestion is one I'm tucking away for another day, as it's both quick and easy, my kind of cooking. For us it's porcupine balls, mashed potatoes, green beans and chocolate cake at the dining room table tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in grief, in turmoil, and in wars not of their making. Cheers to all with celebrations happening today. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! Wishing those of the Christian faith a blessed Good Friday. Most days are virtual vacation days thinking about time spent on a BHB. I've never seen a mermaid, but have you ever wondered how do they pee? Fewer and fewer mom and pop businesses, but we do try to patronize them when we can. Our family is here! They couldn't start until around 4:30, so that brought them to the house at 11:30 last night - of course both boys napped part of the way so they were like little excited puppies when they arrived. We had lunch, then DH and I said we were calling it a night at 1:30. We'll be dragging a bit today, I'm thinking. While waiting for the family to arrive, around 7PM the phone rang - it was our friend whose husband has post-polio syndrome. She was crying and all she could say was "I think Gord is dead, can you please come over?" I didn't stop to ask details, just said we were on our way, told DH what was happening, we tossed on our jackets and flew out the door. Thankfully they only live about a 5 minute drive from our place. When we got there, all emergency vehicles were on site - police, fire, and ambulance, so we walked to the door and were greeted by what we assume may have been a supervisor. As we passed the living room we could see them doing compressions on Gord, so we just shuddered. The fellow told us we couldn't come in right now, but we could find another way into the house and Ollie (his wife) would let us in and we could be with her. They worked on him for about a half hour, then ambulanced him off to the hospital and we followed quickly. I went in with Ollie (telling them I was his sister, as they were only going to allow 1 of us in) and we were ushered into a quiet room where a lovely young social worker sat with us. After a couple of hours a doctor came in to say Gord had been stabilized and they were taking him to CCU and Ollie could see him shortly, but that I would have to leave as the place was very crowded. Ollie and I understood, so we hugged tightly and I went to find Maurice in the car somewhere on the big parking lot. Whew! This morning is already busy with 2 grandsons up and raring to go. I've had a request for Grandma's Special Breakfast (eggo waffles topped with ice cream and M&M's), so that's where I'm off to next. I'm delighted that @dfish is also going to be on the TA and hope that @Sharon in AZ might be joining us as well! I'd like to try the drink, and the wine (but $$$), and the salad sounds good. Tonight's menu is porcupine balls, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables and a Caesar salad that we'll enjoy at the dining table. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in grief. Cheers to all with celebrations. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily! As a child I remember the whole school being trooped off to mass on Holy Thursday morning and nobody was to crack a smile on the way there or back, as it was a very solemn day. Neither of us is a real sports fan, so opening day doesn't have any meaning. I've often thought it would be nice to have a hot tub, but then think of the maintenance and extra costs associated and am glad we don't. Audrey Hepburn was a lovely lady with a great attitude. It's cloudy and windy this morning but we're only at -8C (17F), and according to the computer, we should hit a high of +3 (37) which will be nice. The warm temp along with the wind should help bring down the glaciers in the yard. Although we haven't had a bad winter this year, when it gets to the end of March, I'm more than ready to have the snow disappear and get started on selecting plants for the yard again. @summer slopeI'm sorry, but not surprised that you had a bad night and are stiff and sore today. Often the day or two after an accident are the most difficult as bones and muscles settle back in from the trauma. @0106I'm happy to see you'll be on the cruise with @marshhawk and us as well - I haven't even thought of a roll call because I figured it was too early to have one started. I'll check in there after I finish this post! @kazuI'm sorry Ivan's alternate home is no longer available; I do hope you're able to get a suitable replacement . . . more stress that you don't need!! I'm going to ask my Daily family for a quick prayer today; they're presenting Maurice's case before the panel to determine whether or not he qualifies for the aortic valve replacement. He's becoming progressively weaker and I know he's starting to get frustrated with himself, as he's always been so active. Just sitting around isn't his cup of tea. Thanks in advance. Today will be spent getting the rest of the house ready, baking some of "Grandma's special cookies" from Mr. Pillsbury, and getting groceries to have all the goodies on hand when the family comes. It seems they won't be able to get away early, as our oldest DGS Logan is at a day camp and they won't be returning from their excursion until 4:30 this afternoon. That means they likely won't be here till midnight or 1AM. Praying for no issues on the highway, and no encounters with deer along the way. I'd like to try the drink, would probably like the wine, but not the price, and I've written down the middle recipe for today's menu suggestion. DH said not to worry about dinner tonight, as for the next number of days I'll be in full on cooking mode, so he's going to head to Tim's and pick up a couple of turkey bacon club sandwiches that we can enjoy at the kitchen table tonight. And wine. Prayers for everyone who is in need, in pain, in grief, and in wars. Cheers to all with celebrations happening today. Smooth Sailing! ☺️☺️☺️ Gerry

Oh my goodness, I'm so glad you weren't seriously hurt! Please do be careful though, because you might find aches and bruises in the next number of days. I do hope the lady's insurance will take care of any costs involved in you getting to the hospital, tests, etc., as it was her fault. And an expired license . . . . I hope her family is made aware of this and they remove the car before she kills someone!

Thank you, yes I did see the Canadian flag - thanks!! I'm afraid I won't be around for sail-away for the next number of days as our family is coming for Easter, starting tomorrow night, leaving on Monday. Wishing all the sail-away addicts a Happy Easter, see you after that.