Saturday, December 27

News Update

Well, another week has passed and we have travelled away from the shore of Lake Superior as far as the shore of Lake of the Woods, on the edge of the prairie! We drove up to Kenora on Wednesday and have enjoyed the remainder of the week here with Eric, Erica and the boys. Travis, Erin and Kristian are here as well, so we are able to enjoy having the family together for Christmas. Tomorrow, we head our separate ways with Wendy and I heading west (Kristian is also travelling with us), Erin and Travis driving back to work obligations in TBay, and the remainder staying here in Kenora.

I have continued to do a bit of work over the holidays as some schools are still remaining to sign-off their October reports, and the reports are due this month! I also have received the good news that my data project has been approved, so I shall continue my work on that even over this holiday. Otherwise, I have been enjoying the season of sharing and eating! Both Wendy and Erica have assembled a daunting display of Christmas baking, and while we did it great justice, much remains to be eaten—although more was eaten than was good for us!

Today featured Eric & Erica's fifteenth (crystal) anniversary, so we enjoyed celebrating that with a number of their friends from Kenora.

And that's about it for this week!

Wednesday, December 24

Your Christmas Worksheet

At my recent office Christmas party, we were subjected to a worksheet of Christmas related items. I have taken the trouble to adapt it slightly, and share it with my family. Several answers they gave were particularly enjoyable, so I'm sure there are more good answers out there, just waiting to be uncovered or discovered or recovered! If you find some alternative answers, please make use of the Comment button to share them with the rest of us!

Spoiler alert: All suggested answers are at the end, so don't scroll down too fast if that would spoil your fun! If you wish to make use of this little quiz, you can just copy and paste it into a word processor document and print it for your own use. Please remember to give credit to the source of these, which as far as I know are anonymous! And if someone reading these recognizes them as his/her own creation, I apologize for sharing without your permission!

Your Christmas Worksheet
(featuring the most outrageous puns we could find—if you have others, we'll consider them!)
  1. At the school the young elves learn the _________________.
  2. The reason Santa has three gardens is so he can _________________.
  3. The favourite breakfast cereal of snowmen is _________________.
  4. When you cross a snowman with a vampire you get _________________.
  5. A _________________ is the only bird that can write.
  6. "__________________________________," sang the ghost to Santa Claus.
  7. The favourite Christmas carol of parents is _________________.
  8. The main difference between the Christmas alphabet and an ordinary alphabet is the Christmas alphabet has _________________.
  9. At Christmas time the Mexican sheep sing "_________________".
  10. If Santa goes down the chimney into a lit fireplace, you get _________________.
  11. Which candle burns longer, a green one or a red one? _________________
  12. Santa's little helper was feeling depressed because he had _________________.
  13. People who are afraid of Santa are said to be _________________.
  14. If you deep fry Santa you get _________________.
  15. A large cat on a beach has _________________.









So, enjoy them, and for your enjoyment here are some of the answers we found so far!




  1. At the school the young elves learn the elphabet.
  2. The reason Santa has three gardens is so he can ho, ho, ho!
  3. The favourite breakfast cereal of snowmen is Frosted Flakes.
  4. When you cross a snowman with a vampire you get frost bite. Although, we now have additional answers of cold-blooded, and a cold-blooded killer.
  5. A penguin is the only bird that can write.
  6. "I'll have a boo Christmas with out you," sang the ghost to Santa Claus.
  7. The favourite Christmas carol of parents is Silent Night.
  8. The main difference between the Christmas alphabet and an ordinary alphabet is the Christmas alphabet has No L.
  9. At Christmas time the Mexican sheep sing Felix Navibaaaa.
  10. If Santa goes down the chimney into a lit fireplace, you get Crisp Kringle. A hilarious and popular suggestion tonight was chestnuts roasting by an open fire.
  11. Which candle burns longer, a green one or a red one? Neither, both burn shorter.
  12. Santa's little helper was feeling depressed because he had low elf-esteem.
  13. People who are afraid of Santa are said to be Claustrophobic.
  14. If you deep fry Santa you get Crisp Kringle.
  15. A large cat on a beach has sandy claws.

Saturday, December 20

News Update

Another week has flown by here on the shore of Lake Superior. The blizzard held off until Sunday evening, but then gave us a big dump of snow. Wendy and I were shovelling and snow-blowing for a couple of hours Monday morning. The remainder of the week featured calm, cold weather with one day even dropping to -30—quite cold for here. It's back to a more comfortable -10 to -15 for the end of the week. And yesterday, we got our car back. It has a newer engine (only 84,000 clicks) and the price was $3389.38—just the neighbourhood he was talking about! Now, I have to check out whether this engine has the enhancements to overcome the previous problems—Google here I come.

I've been working with my partner, Wes, in revamping the boardroom at work into a virtual office. We installed the Smartboard, installed the data projector from the ceiling and adjusted the furnishings for the teleconference and the polycom. Wes also gave me a lesson on using the Smartboard, and installed the Smartboard software on my computer, so I shall try to build my next presentation with that facility. On Friday, we had the office Christmas party; that was a nice event as well. I have had a lot of calls for OnSIS assistance as the schools head toward the Christmas break.

Wendy has continued to battle her cold, and we think it's gradually getting better. I came down with the edge of a cold, myself, but have taken some extra rest and seem to have it beaten back. Wendy has kept busy with Christmas baking—shortbread cookies, butter tarts, lemon puffs, toffee, pumpkin loaf; I'm challenged to keep up with the eating of the same! Fortunately, she finally stuck the butter tarts in the freezer—I like them better that way!

Travis has completed his exams, but has kept busy working with one of his contractors on a store renovation that includes an office for Trav! He has been doing quite a bit of graphics work for this guy, and the prospects are now that it may develop into a business relationship as Trav finishes university next May. It's not an easy time to operate a business—let alone start one!

Erin continues with her work and care of Kristian. It's been a great blessing to be able to access the number of professional workers to diagnose his hearing issues, get him fitted for hearing aids, and provide training and support for his language development.

We've been enjoying hearing from many of you with end of the year newsletters as well as the regular updates. In one of those was a photo in celebration of our 38th Anniversary—thanks Tom & Mariette.
Eric and the boys come down on Friday evening to spend the weekend. It's nice to have them around. Erica has remained at home in Kenora to catch up on things there. She's also been working on roping me in to a duet with her on Mary Did You Know? for a Christmas Eve presentation. And that's about it for this week!

Saturday, December 13

News Update

Another week has passed here on the shore of Lake Superior in the grip of winter. We got two good dumps of snow this week, so I've been able to exercise the snow shovels and the snow blower. Colder temperatures hit us in the middle of the week, but it's almost up to zero today–probably in line with the blizzard expected over night.

As mentioned last week, the car has been taken in for repairs. The mechanic called early in the week to confirm that the motor was needing to be replaced. He allowed that the cost would be in the three thousand dollar neighbourhood—not a place I was even thinking about visiting!

I have worked on a couple of small issues with my schools this week, and started development of the data project I hope will be approved later this month. Otherwise, it's been the snow clearing and the development of a small rink in the backyard for Kristian. It's now ready, and he got out for a short skate today—his first try, and I can't say that he enjoyed it a great deal!

Wendy has continued with Christmas preparations. Short bread cookies and Christmas cake are available in abundance, and the gander is getting fat! She finally managed to get a Wii, so that's one off the list. She also bought an artificial tree, so decorations have begun with that.

Of course the big story of the week has been Kristian's new hearing aids. He has taken to them very well, and we've delighted in his experimentation with lots of new words that he is hearing much better now. The ear inserts will need to be replaced every three to six months. Kristian chose the colours–a head-shaker for sure!

Erin's work continues; she has had to work around various appointments for Kristian's fittings and speech therapy.

Travis has now finished his exams for this semester, and is doing a bit of extra work on the advertising and promotion front with one of his employers. He has decided to end the pizza delivery for now. And, with his extra funds, he's contemplating a pay down of his demand loan.

And that's about it for this week.

Saturday, December 6

News Update

Another week has passed on the snowy shore of Lake Superior, on the edge of winter! Christmas preparations are fully engaged; the old crow is still fat; EI (Employment Insurance) beckons.

The week has been quite busy. I have worked through a four-day conference involving three presentations. All have gone well, and I'm satisfied to look forward. Working with two colleagues, I have begun development of a data project. This is still awaiting approval, but indications are positive, and we have determined to go ahead with at least a model of it whether approval is granted or not! Then, if approval is not forthcoming, I shall present the model at the February conference, and apply for funding again. Fortune sometimes favours the persistent! I have completed my application for EI; my ship should arrive soon!

Wendy continues to be engaged with her various home businesses, and her constant home busyness. An extra feature of the season is baking—just in case this old crow begins to fade away (fat chance!). She also has been scouring the stores in search of this season's illusive gift–the Wii. No luck so far, but she does have a couple of rain cheques. With the temperature ranging from -5 to -15, I don't expect any rain!

The big news this week was about Kristian. He has finally submitted to what the doctors feel is a somewhat legitimate testing process and they have a diagnosis. They have confirmed what we have long been telling them—the boy doesn't hear much! (And we don't even know how much he listens!) The testing showed next to no transmission of sound signals through the cochlea. Now, I know he does hear some things, so I hasten to reassure that his disability is not as bad as 'they' say, but it is certainly a problem. And now that 'they' agree, he will be fitted with hearing aids next week, and we're looking forward to the difference. Naturally, most of us (not including Kristian) are more than a little unsettled by the situation.

Other distressing news of the week concerned our car—actually, it concerned us; our car couldn't care less! Some funny (we're talking fun as in dysfunctional) sounds began emanating from the motor! It was probably instructive that when I typed 2.7 into Google, a number of suggested searches arose! Sure enough, Chrysler has some known issues with the 2.7 engine. These engines are known for timing belt problems; well, we knew about that one. My brother in Medicine Hat had advised on that one, "Replace the timing belt about 150k; it's going to fail." Well, we hadn't, and we're now pushing 200k. But my recollection of timing belt failures was that no sound emanated from the engine! So, on to issue number two–"There is a tendency for sludge to build up, and starve the engine of oil." This is due to a design flaw, according to my mechanic who was well (and perhaps too happily) aware of it. Chrysler continues to fight the class action lawsuits, "That's not a bug, that's a feature." Any way you slice it, it is not good. The car is now with the mechanic; we await word concerning our loss!

Travis is in the throes of semester end tests; that should be completed next week. Otherwise things go well with him.

And that's about it for this week.

Friday, December 5

Sauce for the Goose

Many foibles in our elected leaders are forgiven; others are mocked, ridiculed, parodied and soon forgotten, but hypocrisy is often viewed as the unforgivable sin. And thus we come to the current state of affairs in Canada. Our fearless leader has apparently failed to read the newspapers, nor attend to radio and television and is thus unaware that the economy is struggling. Echoing the fickle words of US candidate McCain, our prime minister and his feckless Finance Minister have assured us that, “The fundamentals of the economy are strong.” (Again, if they were students of the media, they would surely have chosen other words!) And therefore, while the economy drops 71,000 jobs in November (the worst showing in twenty-six years), the TSE drops below 8000 (my pension was starting to look possible a few months ago when the TSE was above 14,000), and the dollar drops to 77 cents US (yes, it was at par in July,) our government has decided that nothing need be done. And, since they're afraid that the opposition parties may actually have a plan (to do something!), they have determined that parliament should go on a two-month holiday!

All this may be written off as bad strategy, lack of planning or foggy thinking, but then the politics begins to get played! The opposition parties have not only sensed that the fundamentals of the economy are not strong, but that this misstep by the governing party represents an opportunity. Now politicians are, if nothing else, opportunists, so they've tried to jump on this opportunity. They have held their back room discussions and determined that the iron is hot enough to strike! Collectively, they have written to the Governor-General offering to take over since the current government is not wanting to do anything. Ah, and the response by the Prime Minister is harsh in its ridicule and stern in its judgement. “This is a threat to the country;” blasts Mr. Harper, “the evil separatists are at the gates!” Therefore he has considered the situation and determined to avoid parliament and the confidence vote that could end his appointment as PM. Perhaps, he thinks, by the end of January the economy may have improved, or at the very least, we may be able to come up with some sort of a plan! In the meantime, he has decided to hide from accountability to parliament and take to the political battles in an attempt to defang the beasts across the aisle.

How things have changed in just a few years! Back in 2004, it was Mr. Harper who was leader of the opposition in a minority parliament. At that time, it was he who was arguing that that parliament must meet. "If the government wants to govern, it has to come to Parliament and it has to show that it can get the support of the majority of members," opined the Stephen Harper of 2004, when the shoe was on the other foot! [http://www.cbc.ca/sunday/harper.html] Back in 2004, it was Mr. Harper who organized a coalition among the opposition parties and wrote to then governor-general Clarkson offering to take over and run her country for her! And it was Mr. Harper who co-signed with the NDP and the Separatists (say it ain't so, Steve!) [http://bondpapers.blogspot.com/2008/11/taking-power-without-election.html]

The press has briefly flapped over Mr. Harper's forbear, Mr. Day, and his dalliance with the Bloc back in 2000, but that never amounted to anything as Mr. Day had the good fortune not to put his name to paper. It will be interesting to watch as the scribblers get off their duffs and dig up the juicy details on this little bit of hypocrisy!

Saturday, November 29

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior. It's been quite busy, as I've been working another contract as Territorial Student Counsellor all week. The weather has been varied, with a few skiffs of snow, followed by melting temperatures. A little snow that fell on Friday still lingers, partially masking the dying lawns.

I have been completing two assignments for the Territorial Student Program. I have been working as replacement counsellor for twenty days now, and I've been developing a data base of all students in the program to help the regular counsellor operate the program more effectively. Both tasks are now complete, and my final paycheque has been issued. I have my Record of Employment (ROE), so I now qualify for Employment Insurance. I plan to work my way through those regulations next week! Of course, I have continued to field questions as part of my old job as MISA coordinator as the first set of report cards for the year won't write themselves!

Wendy has been disappointed to find out that she didn't get the accounting job she applied for—we were both expecting a positive answer there after we found out her references had been called. She continues to search, and I have applied on a couple of jobs as well. Otherwise, she has undertaken a major house-cleaning—it's not spring, so this must be a Christmas cleaning! She is running a home-based sales enterprise this weekend with Pampered Chef (cookware), Tupperware (plastics), PartyLite (candles) and Mary Kay (cosmetics) covering every available horizontal platform in the dining room, living room and hallway. I retreat to the bedroom or my office!

Erin had Kristian to the audiologist again. Kristian cooperated more with the testing, so they're starting to get some confirmation of a hearing loss. He'll be back for further testing next week, and a consideration of remedies. He continues to be a delight, and is particularly devoted to his Cars movie. I think I've seen it three times this week!

Travis celebrated his twenty-seventh birthday on Thursday. He continues to do well in his work and his education. One of his contracting bosses took him out for lunch this week.

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Monday, November 24

The Obamabots are Coming!

While the President-Elect is busy assembling his cabinet and has yet to lead/rule a single day, many among the Reichwing are expressing fear and trepidation reminiscent of the pinko-Russki-red-baiting days of fifty years ago. Even as the Republican campaign raised negative emotions by playing the fear card, the race card, the security card, even the religion card...
"He's pallin' around with terrorists."
"He's different than we are."
"He wasn't even born in America."
"He's anti-American."
"This is the real America." (i.e. the part that supports me!)
"He's a Socialist."
"I wish you would investigate our politicians and find out who are anti-American."
"He's a wealth redistributor."
"He's a Muslim."

Now we see how it has given licence to the neo-Nazis, the KKK, the white supremacists... and we hear the chants from the campaign trail "Traitor" "Kill him" echoed and raised in the chants "Assassinate Obama" that even school children have been trained to express. It is truly a sad state of affairs when the rhetoric descends to this level purely on the basis of bias since the poor man hasn't even had a chance to do anything!

Meanwhile Barack Hussein Obama (some lament that his middle name wasn't Roger or Robert... so we could call him BRO!) works to manage the transition, strategizes for clearly needed changes and chooses his cabinet members. And here, we see many supporters express their concern and chagrin over the names of candidates the transition team carefully leaks to the blogosphere and the news media. The progressive side of the Democratic party wrings their collective hands over the prospect of candidates too far to the right in the political spectrum.
"He's too pro-Israel."
"He's too pro-business."
"He's not for net-neutrality."
"She's a DINO (Democrat in name-only)"

Some call for patience as they point to the best-managed, best-run campaign in history and express their confidence that the man who has coalesced their hopes into a successful Whitehouse run will also express their dreams in his governance. Many others on both the left and the right (as if such a thing as left actually exists in American politics!) express their doubts that Obama will achieve their wildest dreams, or their fears that he will achieve their wildest nightmares!

Sunday, November 23

Dubya's Legacy

The American government is in transition stage, and the Bush administration appears to have determined to see how much damage it can inflict before their January 20th departure. With economic and foreign policy misadventures in full bloom, one wonders about the scope of the mess Dubya is leaving to his successor.

The DOW had fallen below 8000 and no one is predicting that the bottom has been reached. It hasn't often happened (one other time–as Hoover brought on the Great Depression!) that a president has presided over a net loss in the DOW over the course of an eight-year administration, but Dubya looks like he can fall to the ignominy of that achievement. He took over a booming economy from Clinton and has managed to run it into the ground, turning a budgetary surplus into record deficits where he manages to beat his own record of futility year after year. In recent weeks we have seen the remarkable hypocrisy of the Republican administration presiding over a multi-trillion dollar (current estimate: not the 700 billion that often gets in the media, but 7.67 trillion) taxpayer payout to businesses while their campaign decries the Democrats as wealth redistributing socialists! It appears that the bastion of free enterprise will soon complete the nationalization of their financial system.

Meanwhile two incredibly ill-managed wars continue in the Middle East. As a result, the armed forces are stressed to a breaking point, and are markedly overburdened by the large-scale, long-term deployments. The recent agreement with Iraq allows US forces, for the first time, to be subject to the justice systems of foreign jurisdictions. That alone will be a remarkable burden for the new president. Finally, they have the culture-wars at home. These have been inflamed by the campaign rhetoric of the Republicans and are widely evident as racial tensions arise in many locations throughout the country. There have been over two hundred hate crime incidents since the election, including cross-burnings, hangings-in-effigy, and assassination betting pools. Meanwhile in view of his criminal administration, Dubya prepares pardons for his friends (even for himself!) by issuing blanket pardons for torture while maintaining they didn't torture! And he tries to embed his cronies into job assignments, while relaxing environmental protections as favours to his business buddies.

What a legacy for a disastrous presidency! There are reasons why his administration is considered among the worst in American history, and why he is challenging Nixon for the lowest end-of-term presidential-approval ratings on record.

Saturday, November 22

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior. The weather has turned decidedly frosty, and we even have a skiff of snow. However, it's a little warmer again, so the snow seems to be disappearing again. We've spent the week around TBay, but have kept busy all the same.

I have continued with OnSIS work and Maplewood support—mainly helping schools get their report cards set up and running in the current school year. I had a teleconference with our principals on Tuesday—just giving them an update on my project work—and worked two days with the Territorial Student Program. Actually, I worked an extra half day there, so I'll finish that contract next week. As a result of these small contracts, I have now qualified for an extra pay day, so we'll celebrate that next Thursday! I have finally made an application for a new job; it's a part time job with a franchised adult education provider. The advertisement and the website leave me with plenty of questions about what the job would actually entail, so that was probably part of the appeal! One special feature of the week is that my registration to perform marriages in Ontario came through—so Dean & Kelly will be able to get married after all! And I'm preaching tomorrow, so I've had to spend some time getting that ready!

Wendy continues to wait on developments over her job application. We feel it is delayed because the operation is currently on strike. Perhaps, she's on strike and hasn't even started work! At the same time, she continues to search out job opportunities for both of us. She tore the old wood paneling off the end wall of the living room one day, and that surely brightened things up in there. The whole room looks larger; maybe we won't have to change the flooring!!

Erin continues with work pretty much as per usual. Kristian is continuing to develop his vocabulary and his interest in communicating. He is a regular delight!

Travis is also carrying on with same ol' same ol' school and work and hockey.

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, November 15

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior, where the women are strong, the men are handsome, and all the children are above average. I have spent part of the week in Toronto at a conference. That, like most conferences, was a mixed bag. Some sessions were good, a couple even great, while others couldn't even convince me to stay in the room!

I also continued (possibly completed) the work on the database project for the territorial student program. I'll be installing and using that next week. I have a couple of small projects yet to do, but my official work is completed and my final paycheque was this Thursday! Now, I will take my ROE (Record of Employment) to EI (Employment Insurance) and try to collect back some of all those fees I've paid over the years! Wendy (and certain other family members) have dedicated themselves to finding me a new job and thus preclude my receipt of EI Benefits!

I got most of my stitches out on Wednesday before heading to Toronto, and then had to return to the doctor this morning to get the final one out. The wound seems to be healing up appropriately, although since it is in the middle of my back, I can't really give an authentic opinion on that!

Wendy has continued the employment process throughout the week. Her references are being called, so we're encouraged to think that this is progress. She also has been caring for Kristian most of the week as he's been kicked out of day care for having conjunctivitus (pink eye). He seems to be well again, so should head back to day care on Monday.

Erin and Travis have continued with their usual responsibilities and interests.

Eric/A and the boys are here this weekend, so we've taken the option of celebrating Kristian's birthday again this evening. It makes for a boisterous household!

Anyway (anyways as they say in TBay—Yikes!), that's about the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, November 8

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior, and an eventful week it was! We've spent our week here in town, but our thoughts have often been focused on our neighbour to the south! Travis took Tuesday off work, so we all gathered in front of the TV to watch the historic American election unfold. Overcoming our many trepidations, we were relieved to watch them elect Barack Obama as their new president. Widespread support produced a landslide victory (365-173) and only the interests of the media in prolonging the race kept it from being acknowledged earlier. Electoral mishaps that continue to mar the 2000, 2004 results and remain the subject of investigations and court cases were remarkably absent. It seems there was clear electoral misbehaviour in only three jurisdictions this time—Georgia, Minnesota and Alaska. Georgian issues now seem resolved, a recount and court battles are underway in Minnesota, and only in Alaska does there appear to be a longer term concern over fraud. In any case, Obama is scheduled to be inaugurated on January 20th, so I have only a couple of months to transition from supporter to critic!

Otherwise, I have spent most work time helping secretaries with OnSIS reporting and continuing my work on database development in support of the territorial student program. I managed to get over to the golf course one last time on Tuesday, so I've finished my season (I think) and my handicap has settled at 15.3. On Wednesday, I had my surgery on my back. The doctor was removing a lump that has been bothering me for some years. In recent weeks it had become such an irritant it interfered with my sleep, so the doctor agreed to remove it. It is now sent away for testing, and I am getting used to sleeping with six stitches—due to be removed next week.

Wendy keeps occupied as per usual and is preparing for a job interview on the 10th. These days, she also is responsible for cleaning and replacing the bandage on my incision each day—perhaps she should go into nursing!

Erin and Kristian continue with their regular routines of work and play. Kristian focuses on increasing his vocabulary, and is being directed increasingly toward toilet training.

Travis keeps busy with work and homework—more so homework. Things are progressing pretty well for him.

Finally, this afternoon, we sat down to watch our Riders, but were disappointed to see them lose the Western Semi-final, so that's the end of their season, along with the end of our hopes for back to back Grey Cups!

So, that's about it for this week.

Saturday, November 1

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior. We have spent the week here in Thunder Bay, and despite the excitement of Hallowe'en it is a pretty quiet week.

I am working on a few different projects this week. I have been asked to prepare a project design for data work in my usual batch of schools. This will entail exporting their data from each student management system data base, and preparing it for analysis within TinkerPlots (data exploration software). My blog has also aroused interest from a contact farther afield, so I am beginning to think about a small workshop there in the new year—pie is promised! The Territorial Student Program has expressed interest in my building a data base for them to track the high school students from the small communities. So, all of those catch my interest and consume some time. In addition, I carry on with my usual work of supporting the school secretaries as they prepare for the first major reporting of the year. OnSIS reporting is done with October 31st data each year, so those reports are now open. The weather has been nice so I even got over to the golf course on Thursday, but too many other people had the same idea, so I decided not to wait long enough to get on. If the weather continues like this, I may try next week.

Wendy has continued to work around home taking care of us all. She has also had some success with a recent job application and is scheduled for an interview. She continues with workouts at the Athletic Club fairly regularly. She also manages some day care each Saturday afternoon in support of a parenting program at church.

Hallowe'en was a big time for Kristian and Erin. Both were in costume and he really got into it. After the first couple of houses, she could barely keep up. Then grandpa spent the rest of evening helping him access more and more candy! Luckily it was a Friday night—he may be un-wired by Monday!

Travis has progressed through a series of midterm deadlines successfully and continues to work and study and play hockey.

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, October 25

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior. We've spent the week around TBay, working out of the home office. Several calls with schools allowed me to assist them with their student information systems as they prepare for the next big round of activity—October reports to the ministry of education. Then on Friday afternoon, I presented to our Supervisory Officers on the topic of data analysis. We are trying to train them in the use of TinkerPlots, a wonderful little program that allows dynamic interaction with data. The session went very well—above my expectations—as the SO's engaged very well with the data and showed great interest. This is very gratifying to me as it represents the truly valuable facet of what I've been working on the last three years in my project. Now we're truly (and finally) starting to make use of the data to produce information that may help improve our schools. I'm also working on another data project where our schools supply data to the regional data warehouse. That was due yesterday, but one of our schools still has not supplied their data!

Wendy has been working out regularly at the gym or pool. She's on a physical fitness kick! She has also applied for another job. My paycheques end next month, so we're both considering the future a little more seriously (and she, a little more seriously than I!). She gave me her doctor's appointment on Tuesday as I have a clogged oil gland in my back that is now causing me a problem. So, I'll be going in to have that excised on November 5th (right after the US voters hopefully excise the Republicans from the White House).

Erin has recently got a raise at work, but not as much as she wanted, and certainly no where close to what she deserves! Kristian is doing well, talking a bit more and we're enjoying having him around. Trav continues with several jobs as well as his final year in University. He is gradually getting his finances back in order—they had taken quite a down turn.

And that's about it for this week.

Saturday, October 18

News Update

Another week has passed here on Lake Superior in the Canadian Shield. We've been around town all week. I haven't had too much to do, which is good as I've just got over one cold, and I have another! The weather has been nice, but my health has prevented me from getting to the golf course.

Monday, of course, was Thanksgiving, so we enjoyed the day with family around. Then Tuesday was election day for Canada, and we took our turns as participants and observers. Wendy even worked at our local poll as scrutineer in the evening. She watched the counting of ballots to ensure all was done fairly. It's quite a good system, our southern neighbour should try it some time. The country maintains the voters' list, all ballots are cast with a simple X on a paper ballot, and the counting is completed within a couple of hours. No big issues with voter fraud, machine fraud, hanging chads!, disenfranchisement—just each person being able to express their choice! What a concept! We were also happy as our local favourite was elected to parliament; he's tried several times and has finally been successful.

Wednesday, I was off to see my oncologist. He reported that my PSA level was unchanged, and he reported that the DRE felt good—on that point, I disagreed! In any case, I am scheduled for my next check-up next April. I feel reassured that he is keeping tabs on the situation.

I have been working a little on a data project related to my schools. All Junior and Senior Kindergarten and grade one students are being tested on their oral language abilities. These is a multi-faceted set of tests that can produce around forty individual items of data on each student. I have established data sheets to track the data and feed it into a larger data base for studies of the various factors that may need to be considered and improved to assist these students. This project comes to a deadline early next week, so I collecting data from the schools and assembling it for submission to the regional data base.

Aside from election activities, Wendy keeps busy with home and church activities. She has also resumed a more vigorous work-out routine, so that keeps her going.

Erin & Kristian are beginning preparations for Hallowe'en. Kristian is suffering with a cold as well; I don't know if he gave it to me, or vice versa! Perhaps we'll get to carving a pumpkin soon!

Trav keeps busy with his school work, his graphic design and web site contracts, his delivery work and hockey. His Penguins are doing only so-so!

And that's about it for this week!

Saturday, October 4

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior, where the weather has taken a turn toward fall, and we've had our first frost.

My week has been occupied with work. Tuesday was a special treat as I was asked to provide a workshop for a group of secretaries from First Nations' schools. These particular schools fall within a group called Private Inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education. This means that they are provincial schools—as opposed to the many First Nations' schools that are federally funded—so they fall under provincial mandates. Despite that (imagine this!) they were overlooked during the initiation of the MISA (Managing Information for Student Achievement) program that I've been part of for the last three years. Belatedly, it seems, the Ministry has turned its attention in their direction. Thus, last spring, they sent out a delegation from the capital to bring these benighted souls up to speed! After this was evaluated as an unmitigated disaster (although the presenters felt it went well—no questions were asked!), local officials began looking around for an alternative solution. In due course, they called and, always being the sucker for a lost cause, I accepted. It turned out well. My relationship with OnSIS, forged in fire, proved fruitful in getting practice userids for them, so they could actually get on line and practise the skills we wanted them to learn (what a concept!). Naturally, a once-shot attempt won't be enough, so we shall see whether this opens up other opportunities. I also worked three days as Territorial Student counsellor, so it was a full week.

Thursday morning greeted us with a frost, so we had to complete the tomato harvest. We now have tomatoes ripening at various spots around the kitchen! We also harvested one of the pumpkins (we don't really know what they are, but they were advertised as pumpkins) and I'm enjoying devouring some delicious pumpkin loaves (they taste a lot like pumpkin loaves!).

I have also come down with a cold, so I'm currently working to overcome that before we head out to Savant Lake for a week of teaching. Wendy will join me on that adventure next week.

Wendy has continued with her usual activities including job hunting, wall-paper scraping, exercising and taking care of the rest of us. Erin & Kristian have continued to do well. Travis continues with work, school and hockey—the NHL season has started!

And that's about it for this week.

Saturday, September 27

News Update

Another week has passed here on the shore of Lake Superior. We've settled back down to home life these days, as I've been working a steady day job—no days off!

This week I've continued with the Territorial Student Program. The full-time counsellor has been travelling so I've been taking care of the students here in town. There are many phone calls as well as the regular follow-up on attendance problems and the family issues that crop up with a batch of teenagers. It's quite a nice change of pace, but there is the frustration of dependency that seems to have been cultivated in these students. I have five days of work with them this week, and another three next week, but I don't expect to change the world in that short of time!

I also spending extra time watching politics these days. We have our own election here—just a five-week campaign as we don't take the two years to make a decision like the Yanks do! I'm also following the American situation with a mixture of delight and horror! I find it hard to believe that Unstable & Unable are somehow seemingly close in the voting. I realize that the Shrub still has a 19% following, but other than those brain dead ones, how does any one else want to vote for the ticket of Unstable and Unable? Here at home the re-election of our government seems assured, but whether he will be given a majority remains up in the air. We have a debate later this week, and soon (October 14th) the vote will be held. At least we expect the manual count of paper ballots and announcement of a victor will take only hours! Let's hope the American's have a decisive election as well. Go Obama-08

Wendy has found a new strategy for the kitchen-dining room floor. The previous owner has placed individual gluedown tiles over the lino. These tiles are ghastly, but they also stick well and leave quite a mess when pulled up. Well, she found some advice on a website about ironing the tiles through foil to loosen the glue—and it's working very well! The lino being revealed looks fine; we don't understand why they covered it in the first place. We've found no damage so far.

Erin spent Monday and Tuesday working at her actual dealership in Winnipeg. That seemed to go fine. Now she's just waiting and hoping on her expected salary increase! Kristian is doing well at day care and keeps amusing us at home also.

Travis continues with work, school and hockey—all seem to be going well.

And that's about it for this week.

Saturday, September 20

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior, not quite on the edge of the prairie. We got back to Thunder Bay on Sunday, and we've spent the rest of the week here.

The week began in Kenora at Eric/A's. We enjoyed the short time there, and then completed the trip home with the mandatory stop for pie in Upsala!

I worked all week at a new job of relief counselor for the Territorial Student Program. The TSP works to support students from the small communities who are taking their high school program in the big city. So, I travelled around to the six high schools and met with most of the students in the program. Cecile, the actual counselor, will be travelling out to the communities, so I'll be taking her place while she's gone on these trips. This will probably amount to about twenty days of work.

Wendy has continued her work around home, and also had an assessment testing for a federal government job. We don't know what the schedule is on that application. We've also been harvesting the garden as tomatoes ripen. The peas and beans seem to be about done. The chipmunks seem to be beating us to the strawberries as we sometimes find pieces of fruit left behind. Rhubarb has been harvested and some frozen for later enjoyment. We can't keep up with the cucumbers, and we continue to watch the pumpkins develop. Soon the leaves will be changing and we'll be into Fall.

We celebrated Kristian's birthday on Tuesday—three year's old! He continues to work with the speech & language pathologist at the day care and is saying more and more words. He's still got a lot of catching up to do.

Erin continues with her work. She plans to be at the franchise in Winnipeg for a couple of days next week. Travis continues with classes and work, so he's pretty busy.

And that's about it for this week.

Saturday, September 13

News Update

This week has been spent far from the shore of Lake Superior. We began the week in Dauphin, out on the edge of the prairie at the congregational retreat. That was a really good time! On Sunday afternoon, my friends took me golfing at Clear Lake. It's a beautiful course, but it's currently suffering from too much water. However, we played our sloppy way around and had a good time. Dick was on fire, and must have made about half a dozen birdies! I was playing better off the tee, but had a couple of disaster holes on the back nine. Anyway, it was fun.

On Monday morning we packed up (thanks Mal & Beth) and headed over to Regina where we've spent the rest of the week. I have been working as needs arise and enjoying helping Bern & Alicia with a few computer issues as they complete preparations to head to Mexico. They finally flew out Thursday evening. I'm looking forward to seeing how they manage on their new blog!

I managed to get over to a local golf course for a bit of practice, but didn't play any more games. Wendy has kept busy with house cleaning, car cleaning, shopping and cooking. She also pruned a tree in the yard.

Today we drove down to Kenora—most of the way home. We plan to complete the trip tomorrow.

We haven't heard too much from home. Erin reports that Kristian is talking more. Travis is back in classes for the final year of his undergraduate program.

So, that's about it for this week.

Saturday, September 6

News Update

Another week has passed, and we have begun another trip away from the shore of Lake Superior. I managed to get a few things done as far as work is concerned before we left, and thanks to the internet and my cell phone, I am also able to work along the way.

The week started with a long weekend for Labour Day, so we enjoyed that. The Riders won again, and remain in first place, so that was good. Wendy and I took in the Hymer Fall Fair in the community of Hymer about half an hour from Thunder Bay. There were plenty of livestock, especially poultry and rabbits, but also horses, cattle and pigs. There were many other kinds of displays and promotions, so we had fun. The weather was very hot over the weekend, even up into the thirties, so it seemed a shame, but Wendy felt it was time to take down the pool for the season. We completed that and got it put away before heading west.

We packed up a truck load of stuff for Kenora, and on Wednesday, Travis and Wendy drove that up to Kenora. The trip was a bit of an adventure since a fuel tanker had rolled on the Trans-Canada and was on fire, so the road was closed. They had to detour around by Fort Francis and then back north. I was about an hour ahead of them, riding Erica's Gold Wing (taking it up to Kenora for her), and I was able to travel the highway, so the accident happened shortly after I passed by. I encountered the road blocks to eastbound traffic as I continued west.

Travis was taking his laptop to Kenora to get a replacement keyboard. He accomplished that on Thursday morning, and then took the bus home again. We continued west on Friday. A call of panic from a school required me to stop in Winnipeg and fine a hotspot so I could help with the problem. Then we carried on to Dauphin, arriving about supper time.

We are enjoying a reunion with the congregation in Dauphin where we spent over ten years. It is certainly a fulfilling experience coming home, and, through the adventures of our lives, we've been blessed to have many homes to come back to.

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, August 30

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior on the edge of the prairie... and it was another good week! It was also a busy week, so much so that I never managed to get out golfing until today! And then I failed because my cart-battery is experiencing problems and wasn't charged up!

Wendy got home on Sunday evening. She had a good time in Minneapolis and brought back a few treats for those of us who held the fort at home! I spent the time while she was away tearing out the partition between the dining room and the living room. There were quite a number of switches and plug-ins involved, so I've spent more time this week rewiring the area. Wendy wanted another plug-in added, so that got done as well. Now I need to get the drywall applied over the new framework and another renovation project will have moved forward.

Travis has moved his share of the "worldly goods" out of the old place and into our house and garage. He and Sylvia are officially separated now, and that hurts our hearts as well. We should not underestimate the powers at play in this world.

Kristian keeps us on our toes. He loves playing some combination of several sports. Grandpa golfs, so Kristian golfs. Erin loves watching sports, so Kristian picks up ideas from that. We've been playing catch a fair bit lately—he's just learning to catch, but throws accurately and hard! Sometimes he'll set up a ball, hit it with one of his golf clubs, drop the golf club, run around the room and throw himself into a headfirst slide! What a boy! What a joy!

I'm doing a bit of work as the schools are opening up. I'm also preparing for next weekend's reunion in Dauphin by getting the songs ready on Powerpoint.

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, August 23

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior. Wendy left for Minneapolis on Thursday morning, so we've been roughing it since then! She is on a shopping and holiday trip with her friend, Charlene, and a few others. So, they're enjoying the amusement park, the water park, the mall, the box stores, the outlet stores... and I'm not missing any of that much!

I have managed three golf games (87, 82, 87) and seen my handicap rise to 14.6 as I keep eliminating my better games from last year before I broke my ankle! I've also got a lot of work done on OnSIS reporting with a few schools and data export in preparation for a training day with the Supervisory Officers of our schools. This year we don't have much funding, so we're not planning to use any of it for travel. As a result, we're planning local training events when we can get school administrators together to improve their use of data. And, I've managed a bit more work on the house renovations.

The weather has been beautiful—probably the best of the summer—although a couple days were too hot for me! I got the '67 Cougar licensed to drive in Ontario—that was a costly venture compared to Saskatchewan.

The garden is going great guns; we can't keep ahead of the cucumbers. The tomatoes are turning, so we'll soon be overwhelmed with them. We hope to have some pumpkins for Hallowe'en, but so far the vines have been putting way too much energy into spreading all over the back corner and not enough into producing fruit!

Erin continues with her work, and Kristian with his play. Trav continues with his regular shifts at Dominos, and also with several graphic art and web site contracts. He's also starting to get ready to head back for his final year of school.

And that's about it for this week!

Saturday, August 16

News Update

We begin the week in Regina in remembrance, commemoration and celebration of Aunt Carole's life. The children, grandchildren and representative others did a marvelous job of acknowledging and acclaiming Carole's significant contribution to so many lives, and also provided evidence of the rich legacy she leaves in the individuals she has served.

We headed east on Monday afternoon, finally arriving at Eric/A's new place in Kenora around midnight. Tuesday morning was occupied around the new house and garage and then we completed the trip back to Thunder Bay where Erin and Kristian have been holding the fort.

Wednesday through Friday were spent catching up on work and issues around home. The garden continues to thrive and we're enjoying lots of cucumbers, lettuce, radishes and a few strawberries, peas and beans. Tomatoes are not ready yet, but promise to be plentiful.

I managed to get in another golf game—more of the same, I'm afraid. Handicap is a rating in view of the ten best of your last twenty rounds of golf. In my case, my handicap has risen from near ten up to 14.2; that is not progress! As I was looking over it today, I took note of the fact that I still have five rounds left from last year. That means I have only played fifteen rounds this year; I usually have twenty in by the end of May! As far as my play is concerned, my analysis is that I'm doing something bad during my full swing in sensitivity to my bad ankle. My consistent problems come on the tee box where I usually hit pull-hooks into trouble! So, after chipping out and hitting up around the green and chipping on... it's hard to complete a par four unless you have a sharp pencil and a good eraser!

Wendy has been applying on a few jobs again, but no bites yet. Erin is also looking around to see what else may be available to her. Kristian continues to be a delight. Trav is working several part time jobs as he spends the summer before his final year of this degree program.

On Saturday, we had a church leadership meeting for about half the day. This evening we went to see the Border Cats (local baseball team), but they lost so they will try again tomorrow to complete a championship season.

And that's about it for this week.

Sunday, August 10

Carole

I should like to have presented this tribute at her memorial service, but those who know me realize that I would still have been blubbering my way through the second paragraph at around supper time, so it's better that I present my thoughts this way, so I can stop to sob whenever I want to do so!

1936•05•01—2008•08•06
Some wit has observed that the sign-posts of our lives are not of our choosing, and that the activities of this existence are encapsulated in the dash. As is often the case, Carole's dash is too short, but it is full and rich and deep. I am pleased to have been a part of her dash, and I cheerfully acknowledge that she is a significant part of mine.

Carole and I worked together in several of the interests of our lives, and I dwell on one of the significant collaborations which supported the development of my first school in Yellowknife, NJMacpherson Elementary School. Carole was a significant representative of the parents and the community of Frame Lake South, for whom the school was being developed to serve. I was designated to be the first principal. Our interests were thus joined in the design of as good a school as possible. I didn't know much about Educational Administration then, but I was blessed with some good instincts. Carole was a source of support and inspiration in the development of those instincts and in the enhancement of the plans for the school. We formed a formidable team, and were successful in making that school much more than the sum of its parts. Much to the superintendent's chagrin, we were able to bring about many changes that produced a more usable plant and a very successful school. It may be the closest example I will see of making something resembling a silk purse out of a sow's ear! The plans were inadequate; the resistance to change was incredible, but largely through the pressures we were able to exert, the school became what I still see as the best school I have had the privilege to be a part of. I went on to learn more things, and establish a grander and bigger school at Range Lake North, but better? I think not. Perhaps it is significant (and a testament to the efficacy of our partnership) that when it came time for staffing the new school, the superintendent refused to let Carole join me there.

Carole mentored me in ways of dealing with people as well as in music. She may not have been terribly successful in either field, but she was helpful! I mention her work on one particular song, as illustrative of her efforts. We both found great significance in a favourite hymn, Each Step I Take, and she vainly (so far as I know) tried to correct my singing of it! I would sing, "...and with his loving hand" and she would chortle (I recall no other person whom I would describe as 'chortling'—but sometimes when Carole found something amusing there would be that combination of chuckle, snort and laugh as she expostulated), "No, Bill, it's 'and with his loving hand'!" And I would confess that I couldn't hear the distinction. Again, I would have loved to have sung that for her at the memorial, but that would have only led to more blubbering! Anyway, without an audience, I have sung that for her a few times in the last week! It does express the faith we share.

I miss Carole very much. Her passing leaves a gap in my life, but she continues to be a significant part of my life, my dash!

Each step I take, the Saviour goes before me,
And with his loving hand, he leads the way;

And with each breath, I whisper, "I adore you."
Oh what joy to walk with him each day!


Each step I take, I know that he will guide me,

To higher ground, he ever leads me on.

Until some day, the last step will be taken,

Each step I take just leads me closer home.

Saturday, August 9

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior, however, sad news has carried us west again, and we end the week in Regina. On Wednesday morning we got the news that Aunt Carole had passed away, so we packed up and drove out to Regina once again. The memorial service is scheduled for tomorrow and we anticipate the celebration of her remarkable life which has contributed richly to mine.

The week began with Eric/A and the boys coming down from Kenora, so we enjoyed having them around for most of the week. They headed back on Thursday evening. I enjoyed a golf game with Eric while he was here, and played well once I got safely off the tee! I even had three good drives!

Otherwise it's been a quiet week with work in the yard, the occasional cry for help from a school and another birthday celebration with Eric/A and the boys—of course, that called for another ice cream cake!

We headed west on Friday morning, including a truck load of stuff up to Kenora and then continuing westward. We got to Regina in the evening.

On Saturday we enjoyed a trip over to Moose Jaw to help celebrate Aunty's 95th birthday. We particularly enjoyed the luncheon of meatballs, new potatoes, parsley gravy and fresh carrots—a lot of memories in that menu!

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, August 2

News Update

Another week has passed along the shore of Lake Superior where the women are strong, the men are older and all the children are above average! It has been a nice week of catching up on things around the house and yard and celebrating my 58th birthday! Thanks for all the good wishes and cards sent by so many of you.

Sunday featured a church picnic out at Gord & Nora's—the weather was great, the food and fellowship were fine.

On Monday, I got back into golfing. I played at my usual home course, Chapples, and managed an 83 (+12), raising my handicap to 13.5. There were some encouraging signs, but mostly it featured inconsistency off the tee and only my short game allowed me to salvage a score.

Tuesday was special because I completed my antibiotics. My foot is looking pretty good with only a bit of redness remaining from the attack of cellulitus.

And Wednesday was of course my birthday! We enjoyed a special supper of barbecued pork chops and scalloped potatoes; and of course, we had an ice cream cake for dessert! Some friends came over to celebrate with us, and to play some Texas Hold'em! It was fun! Erin was the big winner; Wendy and I both went broke, so I'd better not give up my day job!

Having solved several OnSIS problems this week, the golf course beckoned on Thursday. While I was more consistent off the tee, I couldn't manage to score well ending with 87 and raising my handicap to 13.8! It's been a steady decline all season.

I had a budget meeting Friday morning, and it now looks like I have funding for about five months—what about the other seven?!

Saturday morning afforded a couple hours of golf practice—let's hope it'll do some good! We closed off the week watching the Riders win in Calgary and improve to 6-0 for the first time in over seventy years!

Erin & Kristian have been suffering with coughs most of the week. Kristian is quite a bit improved by today. Wendy and Erin have both applied for new jobs, so good luck to them!

And that's about it for this week!

Saturday, July 26

News Update

And finally we spend a week back on the shore of Lake Superior, although not completely of my own choosing! We get up early Sunday morning and drive down to Kenora to go to church with Eric/A and the boys. For lunch we enjoy a fabulous brunch and cruise on Lake of the Woods—what a lovely place! Then we continue on the way to TBay—Trav driving the truck, Wendy driving the Concorde, and me driving the Cougar! It was a convoy! After stopping for the requisite pie in Upsala, we get into TBay just as it is getting dark. I remove my shoe and sock, confirm what I had been feeling for some hours, and Wendy took me to emergency!

My cellulitus has spread further! The doctor was suitably concerned, and I was put on IV antibiotics. He estimated that three days might be required to turn this thing around. At least he made no mention of 'flesh-eating' as the Winnipeg doctor had... gotta enjoy small victories. As a result, not much happened for a few days outside of laying on my back at home and laying on my back in emergency tied to the IV. The nurse installed a 'hep-lock' in my arm and they just hooked me up each evening—not my favourite way to spend the week! On Thursday through Saturday, I was supposed to be in North Dakota enjoying our annual Pryder Cup golf matches featuring our friends from Dauphin and Bismark—alas, I had to cancel my part of that. Finally, on Wednesday night, the doctor allowed as how infection had been beaten back enough so I could rely on oral antibiotics to complete the job.

I took the Cougar in on Thursday morning for its Ontario Safety check. That was not incident-free! Wendy was concerned that the license had expired on Monday, so I shouldn't drive it. So, I decided to let her 'tow' me in. Well, the chain jerked and went loose from the car... and on its way out, it took a piece of the radiator! No good deed shall go unpunished! I drove it the rest of the way on my own, spewing anti-freeze all the way! Now I have a repaired rad and lovely fresh coolant! Some repairs were needed on the Cougar to bring it up to standard—rear shoes, a tie-rod end and a ball joint. Now, I still need some photos and an appraisal—Ontario ensures that things are a little more complicated!

My foot is doing okay now, most of the redness and swelling have disappeared, the athlete's foot is vanquished, and I finally felt ready for some golf practice today. Some weeks definitely do not follow the script!

Anyway, we are home now, enjoying the yard work and gardening. Radishes, lettuce, rhubarb and strawberries are producing well and the tomatoes are promising. The beans and peas are disappointing, but the cucumbers and pumpkins look good.

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, July 19

News Update

Another week has been spent away from the shore of Lake Superior. We begin the week in Regina and end it in Winnipeg. And tomorrow we head for home.

Sunday morning in Regina brought many acquaintance renewals, and included many farewells. On Monday morning, I began my solo journey in the Cougar. I headed over to Dauphin to get some paint problems repaired and to visit with Dick & Sue. Both ventures went well. The body shop people seemed to understand the problem and the repair looks great. Dick & Sue are wonderful hosts and wonderful friends. Dick, Kent, Randy and Wayne made sure I got a golfing fix, so that was great even if my golfing wasn't! My handicap rose to 13.1. However, local golfers were happy over some good golfing weather that has not been frequent this year—maybe I'll take credit for that!

On Tuesday, Dick and I worked on some renovations in the basement before another round of golf with Wayne. We installed two basement windows and got the framing finished, so he's ready for drywall.

Wednesday morning found me picking up the car from the autobody and heading to Winnipeg in steady rain. Although I didn't know it, I was also taking a few extra friends with me, but more on that later. Wendy arrived for a celebratory birthday supper for Tom with his kids and grandkids. A wonderful planked salmon was featured—what a treat!

Thursday and Friday were quiet days with a bit of shopping and then the wedding rehearsal on Friday afternoon. Erin & Kristian flew into Winnipeg on Friday morning as Kristian has a starring role in the wedding! During the rehearsal, Kristian performed brilliantly on the tricycle... now if he can only do it again tomorrow with the crowd there!

Saturday morning brought my little visitors to the forefront. I had decided on Wednesday evening that I had picked up athlete's foot somewhere in my journeys, so I began treatment with tough actin' Tinactin! However, by Friday evening, I was convinced that more was wrong, and Saturday morning we went to a nearby walk-in clinic and got the bad news confirmed. I have an infection that has probably taken advantage of the athlete's foot opening and my foot is suffering cellulitus. The doctor prescribed antibiotics (atho-cephalex) and I began treatments with double doses for the first day. Along with a ice bath, prescribed by Dr. Tom, this appears to be holding the infection at bay, but we will need to monitor it closely. I didn't appreciate the doctor's tone as he expressed his concern over saving my foot!

Tori & Sharon's wedding was lovely and came off brilliantly despite a reluctant Kristian failing to put on his ring bearing performance! We enjoyed meeting many friends old and new at the ceremony and the reception.

On the home front we have concerning news as Trav & Sylvia have separated again.

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, July 12

News Update

We spend this week away from the shore of Lake Superior—mostly in Regina. As usual I have been on-call with my schools, so I have several to work with. I manage to help two of them get signed off for June, and several others are close. Some others—not so much!

Sunday morning found us in Vernon where we enjoyed catching up with even more people in the congregation there. Then, I enjoyed another game of golf with Randy in the afternoon. We played a par-three course, and even with four holes over 200 yards, I golfed my ball well, and scored a very satisfying +4. (Could it have been because my driver never left the bag?!)

On Monday, we began our trip back to Regina. This time we headed west first, through Kamloops, then north and east to Edmonton where we enjoyed staying overnight with Randy and Margaret. They have a beautiful home in an eastern suburb of Edmonton. On Tuesday, we stopped in Lloydminster, so we could visit with Diane (Margaret's mom). Diane is suffering the effects of an automobile accident that has left her paralyzed from the waist down, but she continues to express optimism about her eventual progress over this injury.

On Thursday we enjoyed a visit with some relatives from BC who are in the province at this time. Then I got in another golf game with three friends here. I can't remember the last time I played so poorly off the tee! Somehow I didn't manage to loss a golf ball, although it certainly seemed I was trying to do so! The game was certainly trying and I reflected on my daily verse: "Therefore I will not keep silent; I will speak out in the anguish of my spirit, I will complain in the bitterness of my soul."—Job 7:11 It sounds like Job understands golf! Rain and darkness ended our game early, but I had managed to score +17 in only 14 holes—and that was with four pars! I was scrambling well, and always! Two aching shoulders and a black right palm may indicate that I was gripping and swinging too hard (my usual errors!).

Friday was cool and rainy in Regina. Province-wide people were digging out after tornadoes touched down in Yorkton and Carlyle, while in semi-arid Maple Creek the streets were awash after a torrential downpour. But don't worry about it; there's nothing to this climate change nonsense!

As I end the week, I am also getting the Cougar ready to head east. I have a permit to drive it back to Ontario, so I plan to get started early next week. Kerry calls and invites me to golf with him at Deer Valley. It's a beautiful, but difficult course in the nearby Qu'appelle valley. This is the kind of course where once you reach the green, the challenges still remain! My usual courses pretty much guarantee a two-putt at worst—here two-putts are an achievement! I play much better off the tee, but still only about half way back to my expectations; I score 94 (91 after adjusting for three triples! Still my handicap rises to 12.9). We also enjoy watching the Riders win in Hamilton and move to 3-0 for the season.

And that's about it for this week.


Saturday, July 5

News Update

Another week has passed as we continue our sojourn away from the shore of Lake Superior. This week we headed farther west, and ended up in the Okanagan at John & Marion's.

I enjoyed a long session of golf practice on Monday in Regina. I got a chance to work with my new hybrids, and the results were encouraging. I also spent a lot of time on my short game. Then, on Tuesday, we spent most of the day working on laying laminate flooring in Rich & Sue's condo—soon to become the home for Tori & Sharon. That went pretty well, and then we finished the day with a farewell BBQ for Kenton & Melanie and family. We got to catch up with quite a few people as a result of our attendance at that event.

On Wednesday we headed out to Medicine Hat where we found Jim & Carol in their new house. We got to be the first visitors to enjoy their legendary B & B in that house. On Thursday, we continued west and rolled into Vernon at about 7pm. After supper there, we continued out to John & Marion's where we've enjoyed the remainder of the week.

On Friday, I was able to celebrate our anniversary in another golf game with Randy & Lorraine. It was my first game at the Sunset Ranch course near Kelowna, and it was very enjoyable. My driving was more consistent, and despite some putting challenges I managed a respectable 88. Although it is a tough walk, I managed it without much discomfort and my ankle did not swell up. My motorized cart performed well.

People have begun gathering for the 25th Anniversary celebrations for John & Marion. This made Saturday a full day with a large crowd gathered at the house. We tried to remember all the people we had met over the years, and keep track of the new faces as well. It was a good time.

Erin has been keeping track of the house, grandson and dog back in Thunder Bay. Eric/A and the boys are down there this weekend as Eric is picking up one of the GoldWings. Travis has picked up some extra work delivering pizza.

And that's about it for this week.

Saturday, June 28

News Update

Another week has passed as we begin a sojourn away from the shore of Lake Superior. We started off on Monday afternoon, and have now progressed as far as Regina. The weather has been good for our travels, except for a rainy day on Friday.

Monday morning found me in a workshop on Change. We investigated a parable called "Our Iceberg is Melting" and considered what we may need to do in the light of the changes that are imminent in our work situation. I guess this is particularly pertinent for me as the MISA program is ending (on August 31st), and I don't know what to do next. Shucks, I haven't even figured out what I want to be when I grow up!

On Monday afternoon, we headed west and drove as far as Kenora where we enjoyed the evening and night with Eric/A and the boys. We got to see their newly purchased house, although they aren't scheduled to take possession until the end of July. It's beautiful and on a beautiful location as well. Check it out at: http://client.rlp.imprev.net/27538/156065/

On Tuesday we continued the trip to Regina, although a frantic phone call from one of my schools required us to stop and access the internet in Winnipeg. Fortunately, Tom & Mariette were home, so we managed a short visit, a nice lunch and some online problem-solving. Thanks! We finally rolled into Regina about supper time.

The remainder of the week in Regina has found us involved in reclamation and repair projects. Rich has been redoing the back deck, so we helped a bit with that. I dug out my '67 Cougar, got it running again, and began applying the spit and polish! We also need to decide what to do about it as it has been in Erin's name as a Saskatchewan Antique, but now that she has moved her residency to Ontario, changes must be made.

On the golf side of life, I purchased two hybrid clubs that will hopefully replace my five-wood and my three-iron, but what they can actually do won't be known until I get some practice time in with them. I managed a bit of golf practice during the week, and finally a game this morning. That went okay, although my tee shots were erratic! I managed a +11 which is about right for me. My short game and putting were functioning well.

We have managed to Skype with Erin and Kristian back in Thunder Bay, and also with Eric/A in Kenora, but otherwise we have little to report from that side of the family. Next week we continue our trip west to British Columbia and look forward to our time in the Okanagan.

And that's about it for this week.

Saturday, June 21

News Update

Another week around home here on the shore of Lake Superior. The weather has smartened up and I got a lot of projects finished in the back yard. Next week, we plan to begin our summer trip, so deadlines loomed!

Father's Day began the week, and I enjoyed having a family dinner, and receiving a new, LARGE print, New Living Translation, Study Bible from my children and their spouses. Aside from being perfect, it was just what I wanted. My little paperback is getting a bit tattered, and the font seems to shrink each week!

Work also made progress as the last of my schools got signed off for the March reports (timely, since June reporting period opened on Monday!), only missing my expectation by a couple of months! The Ministry expects the March reports signed off by the end of June, but I expected them to be done by the end of April. Indeed some were completed in the first week of April. So, I've been getting people started on the June Reports. It's the biggest amount of data, but if they've kept their data up to date and clean, the reporting is very straightforward; which represents—in the case of my problem school—very bad news indeed!

I got the pool deck finished, the pool base filled and smoothed and the pool filled with water. I installed a new heating line, so I'm hoping that allows a better temperature control. I also got the landscaping upgraded and the remainder of the cedars installed, complete with drip irrigation. Wendy got bedding plants, and we got those installed. My garden is progressing, although I don't have as much variety as last year. I hope to get another batch of radishes planted before we leave.

I got out for a golf game with John on Thursday. There was some progress, but I faltered badly toward the end: 42-47-89. My handicap remains at 12.7, but with these results it may start climbing soon.

Kristian and Erin are doing fine. Erin has been continuing her house-hunting. I'm hoping she'll look closer to home! We'd have a hard time being without Kristian at this point, and we enjoy having Erin around, too!! Kristian is picking up new words each week, and seems to be making quite an effort to communicate.

Trav & Sylvia were over on Father's Day of course, and were also here for supper last night. Trav continues to hope for more work over the summer. They both had dental work yesterday, so they weren't feeling too comfortable.

And that's about it for this week.

Saturday, June 14

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior, and I was able to spend it around home. Oh, we did take a day trip down to Minnesota to pick up a parcel, but work was around home, and we got quite a lot done. It's just as well—the weather has not cooperated with golfing weather!

I have a little work on a data storage project that I am able to keep up with on my computer at home. I have a couple of teleconferences, but for the most part, I'm on my own. Between showers, I get some more work done in the back yard. I build a slide structure for Kristian and get his fancy slide installed. It works well. I have also built him a sand box below the slide, and that necessitated many wheelbarrows of sand being hauled from the back gate. Grandpa's getting too old for this stuff—too much like work! The pool deck is nearly finished; the grass is growing in the back; the garden boxes are growing—progress!

In the midst of this we get some sad news; Barb, long-time member of our congregation, goes into cardiac arrest and passes on. We grieve for that. Life is fragile and uncertain.

Eric/A have purchased a house in Kenora. It looks great! We're looking forward to a viewing as we head west in another week. They take possession at the end of July. We also got their Honda Goldwings moved out of the garage to the local bike shop for rehab. They'll be glad to have both back in operating condition.

Trav & Sylvia continue with their usual routines. Trav wishes for a bit more of the contract graphics work over the summer; he may check out other work to fill his days.

Erin continues with work; it is going fine. Kristian is doing well; he has begun expanding his vocabulary, but he still doesn't talk much. He is enjoying having his cousins here this weekend. I am enjoying having Eric as we got to go out golfing today. You may remember the last two rounds were +19 and +20... this time only +7! (But then we only played nine holes!)

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, June 7

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior, and, as I have now completed my school tours, I was able to spend most of the week here. The weather had turned nice and we're certainly enjoying that. Hay fever season is upon me, so I'm sneezing and otherwise reacting!

I managed to get out for my first round of golf in about three weeks on Sunday afternoon. It wasn't pretty, but probably a good reflection of where my game is at right now. I managed only two pars out of a total of 90! Wendy tells me that I need to golf more!!

Wes and I drove up to Armstrong on Monday morning, and worked there Monday and Tuesday. On Tuesday afternoon, we drove back to Thunder Bay, thus completing our set of school visits. Once again the visit was productive, and another school is signed off for OnSIS. I also installed the last of the Tangible Capital Asset monitoring systems.

John and I golfed on Wednesday, and although I managed four pars, the final result was similar—91. Wendy tells me I need to get out golfing more!! My ankle is complaining after each round, but it doesn't seem to swell up now, so I think it is gradually rounding into shape (round is a shape!). I have a lot of work to catch up on in the backyard, so golf time will need to be managed! As I mentioned, Erin bought a slide for Kristian, so I need to get a platform built, and a sandbox built and filled so I can get the slide installed. My grass is growing nicely, but there is lots of landscaping work and pool deck and...

Wendy does a good job of taking care of things at home. This week she's done a fair bit of yard work and also got going again on the kitchen walls. She's scraping the wallpaper off so we can paint them. We also plan some major changes to the layout especially in the dining area. I'm tired already!

Kristian got a good check up on his eyes. The infection has cleared up from his cornea, but we need to continue with applications of the antibiotic to his eyelids for some time yet. He is gradually learning and saying more words. He seems to understand a lot, but doesn't talk much (typical male!!). I managed to get his sandbox built, and the sand has been delivered, but old grandpa ran out of gas, so there's still many wheelbarrow loads to haul!

We enjoyed Sunday dinner (out) with Travis & Sylvia, and also Sunday supper (BBQ here)! I enjoy the Red Wing win of the Stanley Cup, but I think I was the only one in the family cheering for them!

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, May 31

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior, although I have spent most of it far away to the north and west of Thunder Bay. The weather had turned nice and we're certainly enjoying that. Since I've been travelling and in line with the weather we have been experiencing, I haven't managed any golf for almost three weeks. However, I did get out for a few hours of practice this afternoon, and look forward to getting back onto the links tomorrow. I have been fighting a cold all week, but seem to be getting over it now.

Wes and I flew up to Red Lake on Monday morning, and worked there Monday and Tuesday. Then, on Wednesday morning we chartered a flight over to Pickle Lake and spent Wednesday and Thursday working at that school. We caught a regular flight back to Thunder Bay on Thursday evening. The work in both schools went well, and significant progress was made. We also enjoyed using the charter flight across between the communities as on earlier tours we had had to return to Thunder Bay and then fly all the way back.

Friday was consumed with office work, but I managed to get some yard work done today before heading out to the golf practice area this afternoon.

Wendy has been taking care of things at home. She does it well. Erin has carried on with work, and today she bought a slide for Kristian, so I see further construction work on my to do list! Kristian is doing well this week.

I have no update on Travis & Sylvia this week; I seem to recall that Sylvia had last week off, but is back at work this week.

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, May 24

News Update

As the week begins, the Victoria Day long weekend is in place with Eric/A and the boys here on the shore of Lake Superior. We enjoy a family barbecue—my first try at barbecuing a roast on the rotisserie. The weather is cool and rainy early in the week, and by the time it turns nice and sunny for this weekend, I'm suffering from a cold.

Wes and I are on the road beginning Tuesday morning. We spend Tuesday and Wednesday in Nakina. Things are going well there. I get the OnSIS report completed and signed off; I make a presentation on data analysis. I get their Assets Management program going. Then we move on to Longlac on Wednesday evening in preparation for two days in Caramat. This is one of our smallest schools. We temper our presentations and try to provide whatever help we can. On Friday afternoon, we drive back to Thunder Bay.

By the time I get home, I'm suffering from a cold, so I go straight to bed and remain there for Saturday as well. It's a shame as the weather is now beautiful and I should be out golfing! And there's plenty of yard work waiting in the back yard as well.

Wendy has continued the improvement process while I've been gone. She has had the pavement repaired in the driveway, and has purchased stain to redo the decks in the back. I have two more weeks of travel, so I hope she gets that done before I'm off the road! The new lawn is coming up nicely, and I am looking forward to how it turns out. With it being a newly landscaped area, I'm sure there will be plenty of dandelions and other weeds competing with my new grass.

Erin and Kristian are doing well. Sylvia and Travis took a few days to enjoy a resort along the shore of Lake Superior, just across the border a short distance.

And that's the kind of week it's been.

Saturday, May 17

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior. It has been a full week of work on the road for me.

I picked up our rental Jeep on Monday afternoon, and we headed out Tuesday morning. I worked all day in Upsala, while Wes accompanied the grade eights to Ignace to check out their high school options. Then, we headed north to Savant Lake in the evening. We hit piles of light-coloured rain (Some people call it snow, but I know that snow does not fall in May!) on the road as we drove further north, so the progress was slowed. We spent Wednesday and Thursday working at the school in Savant Lake, while staying in a cabin on Sturgeon Lake. The cabin was poorly constructed, and we were cooking for ourselves, but we managed okay while only devouring the protein quota of a small African village! We head back south on Thursday evening, and have a hotel stay in Ignace that night. Then, on Friday we work some more in Upsala and complete the tour back home.

More work remains in the backyard here at home. Wendy has plans for me there! The grass is starting to germinate. I cut the front lawn for the first time. I practice golf for a while, but it's too windy for me to enjoy playing so I don't attempt that.

Eric/A and the boys are here for the long weekend, so that's great. We plan a nice barbecue for tomorrow afternoon.

Erin and Kristian are doing fine. The children and spouses got together to get a Red iPod shuffle for Wendy on Mothers Day, so I get that set up for her. She's enjoying listening to ZOE.

Trav tries to help out with Wendy's iMac, but no luck on that front yet. We can see the picture on the screen if we use a flashlight, but it's not really usable. I log on to it remotely to get a couple files for Wendy.

And that's about it for this week.

Saturday, May 10

News Update

It's been a busy week here on the shore of Lake Superior. This was the week of our annual conference, so that has kept me busy at work. And with the weather improving, there was also the undeniable call to the golf course! Then, you may remember Wendy's purchase of eighteen cedars for the back yard! Next week, I'm scheduled to be back on the road Tuesday through Friday.

On Monday afternoon, I got out for my first round of golf for the year. Chapples (my home course) is still soggy wet, so I drove out to the Municipal, whose sandy soils allow it to be playable earlier in the year, and almost immediately after any rain we have during the summer. It is not a long course (only 5666 yards), and only has two par 3's and two par 5's in a full round. However, it was still rewarding to cart an 81 for my opening round. And my ankle was only slightly swollen afterwards. I got out again on Friday afternoon, and managed a 77, so that was even better. My tender ankle is keeping me from swinging so hard, or hitting as far. My top drive was about 260, with most being around 240. Now, I'm not really playing that well, but the course is wide-open so my errant shots weren't punished. The shorter holes accommodated my lack of length, and my short game was in good form. I am wryly confident that as my ankle rounds into shape, I'll be able to hit it harder, and my scores will get back up where they usually are! (Maybe there is something to this self-control thing! Nah, it'll never catch on!)

I have managed to get nine of the cedars dug into the back yard, and have set up the irrigation system for the full set. I hope to get the rest done on Monday—I guess you would say that I've only managed the back nine!

Wendy has kept busy with her babysitting and volunteering. She is also beginning cleaning up the flower beds and other work in the yard.

Erin continues to do well, and has investigated how much she could qualify for in a mortgage for her own house. Kristian has had a cold for most of the week, but is better for the weekend.

Travis & Sylvia are hosting us for Mothers' Day brunch tomorrow.

And that's about it for this week.

Saturday, May 3

News Update

Another week has passed here on the shore of Lake Superior. I've spent most of the week away, but life goes on. The weather is gradually returning to spring-like conditions, but it was cool again today, so I only got out for a little practise time in the afternoon. Maybe tomorrow!

I was travelling most of the week. We drove out to Atikokan and worked in both Atikokan and Mine Centre schools. We stayed in a cottage by a lake just outside of Atikokan, so that was nice. We each brought food to prepare one supper meal, and also our breakfasts. Otherwise, we ate out. Work in the schools went well. My new venture on data analysis is being well-received. Also, I set up the Capital Assets program for another Board, and that went well.

Back home, Wendy has found and purchased eighteen cedars for transplanting into our back yard. Travis helped her get them home from the store, but when I got home Friday night, I was dismayed to find that some of them were still not planted. So, I guess we'll have to get at the eighteen that remain to be dug into the ground!

Kristian is doing well. He finally had his next visit with the speech therapist—they're still not satisfied with his development of speech. Erin continues with her work.

And that's about it for this week.

Saturday, April 26

News Update

Another week passes on the shore of Lake Superior. The weather has been beautiful all week, although, of course, it's cool and rainy for the weekend! The golf courses are open, but there are plenty of soggy spots! I plant the lawn in the back yard; it's a new eco-lawn that is supposed to grow without fertilizer or watering, and can even be left uncut if one wishes! Of course, I guess all lawns can be left uncut if one wishes, but this one is supposed to look good if left uncut! We'll see! The Stanley Cup playoffs are starting to get more serious—we're down to eight teams now. My favourite has already been knocked off, so I'm looking for another team to cheer for!

I'm back on the road again. This week we went to Hornepayne (about five hours to the east). I installed the new management system for 'tangible capital assets' (thanks, Erica, that was well received) and provided directions on its use. Then I worked in the school, helping with some issues for the school secretary and with the librarian on some data input and management issues. Then I did some training of the principals and the special education teacher on analyzing data. "We've got lots of data—what we need is some information!" Next week, we head west to Atikokan and Mine Centre for more of the same!

Wendy and I are working on the back yard. As I mentioned, I've seeded the lawn, and we (read—Wendy) have plans to install some cedars and drip irrigation along two sides of the back fence.

Kristian is doing well. He had an appointment with the hearing specialist this week, but refused to cooperate so they couldn't get a good reading. Maybe next time! Erin continues with work, and a bit of a search for a house to buy.

Travis is at his summer work. He and Sylvia were over for Friday night supper.

And that's about it for this week.