News Update

Another week finds us far away from Lake Superior and my hometown. We are in Regina; we have driven out here to attend and observe Tim & Krista's wedding. We plan to head home early next week.

The week started as a long weekend and we were enjoying have Eric/A and the boys with us. They headed back on Monday, and we continued with the regular business around home. I continue to have a few phone calls asking help from the schools. I have also been busy with the garden. We are only awaiting a few bedding plants now to complete the plan for this growing season. We have planted a lot of vines—cucumbers, several kinds of squash, pumpkins, and zucchini. Other than that we mostly have peas, beans and greens. I have tried to plant a bit more of peas and beans in the hope that we will have a continual supply during the season, rather than just a meal here and there. And I've also planted a bit of corn.

On Thursday afternoon we drove out to Kenora, and then on Friday we continued to Regina. Eric/A followed us Friday after work, arriving in Regina about 2:00 AM. Today was the wedding. It was very nice, and we enjoyed catching up with many people, and making some new acquaintances as well. Travis is along with us as he got off work early. He plans to head back with Eric/A so he can get back to work for the new week. We are glad to have the chance to spend a bit of time with Wendy's dad as well—thanks for putting us up!

Erin and Kristian remained at home and commiserated over the Blue Jays first extended losing streak of the young season. They are still in first place, but it's getting close! Other than that they are doing well. They are also caring for BJ who seems to be doing poorly. He is very old (for a dog) and is having trouble getting around lately. This will require some extra attention when we get home.

Investment training has continued. We didn't have a class this week since Monday was a holiday, but we kept at our investments. It was not an easy week since I had bought at higher values last week, and this week saw a lower market. Still, I managed a couple of sales, and have raised my over all gain to 28.1%.

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior, in my home town. We are not in Kansas anymore. We flew back from on Tuesday night, arriving in TBay about midnight. The weather has continued variable, and not warm enough to give me comfort over my garden. The next week looks better, so maybe yard work (and golf) can get back in full-swing! We enjoyed our time in Abilene, celebrating Shepherd's grad, as well as the drive back and forth from Lawrence KS. And we found out that we actually were able to celebrate about seven graduations of friends and family from ACU.

I've had a little work around the office this week. I was offered a month-long teaching assignment in Hornepayne, and after some consideration was looking forward to accepting that, but it turned out they wanted me to pay for the privilege of working there—so I demurred! When I had taught for a week in another community last fall, I was paid salary and expenses. This time, they only offered salary, and when Wendy checked out expenses... it didn't pay! My buddy, Wes, opined that since I've been working for nothing so much, they now wanted me to pay them! So, we continue to try to live on EI (and love) and it's thin living!!

Investment training continues. This week, I took the lecture while in Lawrence KS. The internet is certainly a wonderful facility. Investments have not gone well this week with both Energy and Financials down over 7%, but I still managed two sells and raised my total gain to 27%. I have all five stocks bought—and they're all currently at a loss position, so we hope things improve next week!

Kristian and Erin were both down with colds while we were away and continue to suffer a bit this week. Travis seems to be much improved, and watching his Penguins advance to the next round in the Stanley Cup playoffs really improved his outlook!

As this is long weekend, we are glad to have Eric/A and the boys visiting with us. Hopefully, the weather will smarten up tomorrow...

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

Another week has passed, and we have wandered south, away from the shore of Lake Superior. We are in Abilene to celebrate graduation with Shepherd, our friend from Zambia. We flew down from TBay to Lawrence KS on Thursday afternoon and met up with our old friend (well actually, I shouldn't call her an old friend, but our longtime friend who is actually just a young thing), Marti. She drives us down to Abilene on Friday. It is great to spend a bit of additional time with Shepherd and Ruhtt. We also get a special treat of catching up with another old Zambian contact Ryan and his wife. Then, while we were there, we also Skyped to Kadonsi in Zambia. It was good to hear his voice. Of course, there were a number of other Zambian contacts attending the graduation, so we also were pleased to catch up with them. We also discovered, to our surprise, that we had connections to about half a dozen of the graduates, so it was good to celebrate with them all.

The graduation itself was a great celebration of Shepherd's efforts and achievement in the masters' program for Human Resources. We hope he will be able to provide great administrative service in Zambia now for many years.

The week started with the usual things around home, and I also had a conference session on Thursday before we flew out. The garden is developing well, in its new location. We are planning for many more vines (cucumber, squash, zuchini, pumpkins) that we will grow along the borders of the back yard. And of course, I'm also trying that potatoes in a box idea! It will be interesting again to see how things develop.

The investment training continues. It was an interesting week as the markets were rising, and we found we did not have an effective strategy for buying as prices increase. After our lesson on Monday evening, we had new techniques and raised our prices for Tuesday. It did not work; prices rose again! So on Wednesday we chose a new strategy of picking a price much higher than the current quote, and were successful in buying all our stocks (in a falling market) at prices much higher than we should have paid!! I guess this was a learning experience! Anyway, the markets rose again on Friday, so we did fine. Overall, I am now up 26.4% in nine weeks. It is too good to really believe. Especially after my experiences with professional managers over the last ten years where I've learned that the only way they could make me a millionaire was if I had started with two million!

Wendy has continued with house and yard work as a part of her rites of spring. As usual whatever she does, she overdoes, so she has been suffering with aches, pains and blisters as a result.

Erin and Kristian are doing well. It is delightful to hear his little voice as he begins to be able to hold short conversations and learns more and more words.Erin continues to work on her options for work and training next year.

Travis is doing well with his work. He has been suffering a bit of ill health this week. Perhaps it's just seasonal allergies.

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

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior, in my hometown. The weather has been nice so we've enjoyed some out doors times. Kristian loves playing in the back yard where I built him a sandbox and installed a slide. Actually, he thinks the larger sandy area I have developed for the pool is even more attractive, so we usually find him there. He also likes time on the trampoline, and practicing his golfing. (Where did he pick up that interest?!) I've been working on the garden, and have it pretty much ready to go. I plan to start planting soon.

My health concern continues. I visited with my oncologist on Wednesday. He was happy to see that my PSA was somewhat lower, although still too high. He says it is further evidence that the elevated levels are just caused by a chronic infection. I also had him check out my little growth. It was his opinion that it was not a thrombosed hemorrhoid, but he referred me back to my family doctor for further investigation. So, I was back to see her on Friday, and she feels certain it is a thrombosed hemorrhoid. She cannot understand why I report no pain! She says I must have a high pain threshold. (Translation: I don't suffer from pain, I'm just a carrier!) She is referring me to a surgeon for a sigmoidoscope, possibly a full colonscopy and whatever surgical action he decides is appropriate. So, the saga continues. Meanwhile, I'm on those suppositories. We hope for a reduction in stress, distress and inflammation!

I have had only a little call-desk work this week. Next week, I have our annual spring conference, and then we're flying south to celebrate our friend Shepherd's graduation in Abilene. Investment training continues to go well, and I had a great week with my stocks. I'm now up 22.8% in eight weeks. Let's hope it continues.

Wendy has continued her dedicated efforts toward spring cleaning. Furniture is being moved, floors are being renovated. Adjustments are being made! Improvement is evident.

Erin continues to move toward furthering her education while continuing to work part time. Lots of planning need to be accomplished to put this all in place. Kristian continues to progress with his speech. He understands nearly everything we try to tell him, and his expressive language is growing bit by bit.

Travis is doing very well with his work, his projects, and the investment training he's taking with me. Now that the next round of playoffs have started, he's unavailable during Penguin games. And now that they're trailing, he'll have to cheer even more!

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior in my hometown. The weather has been spring-like, although we started off with precipitation that is only rain due to my definition that all precipitation in the months April through October is rain. We did not enjoy the white fluffy rain, but it disappeared the next day, and I still managed a couple of trips to the golf course, so it was an okay week in that regard.

I had two days of work this week in the Territorial Student Program, so that impacts the bottom line, but not very much. I lose almost the same amount in my Employment Insurance! My investment training continues to go well. I am enjoying the classes each week, and also having continued success in the five stocks they allow us to invest in. I am now up 19.4% in seven weeks.

I have a medical concern, so I went to the doctor mid-week. She assured me that it was 'rhoids—not the kind that make you faster, stronger and meaner, but the kind that make you walk slowly and sit down carefully (possibly a bit meaner)! "Thrombosed hemorrhoid," she opined, and hastened to assure me that she knew I was in great pain, but that a prescription of suppositories would take care of the pain in short order. (Man, those things are hard to swallow–why do they make them so large?!) In vain, I tried to inform her that I was feeling little pain. Anyway, I have the prescription order in case I ever decide to get it filled! In sum, I am more than a little skeptical about her diagnosis, but since I see my oncologist next week, I'll wait until then to get more information. He's as enthusiastic with the DRE as she was tentative, so I'm guessing he'll get to the bottom of this! (pun intended)

Wendy has continued and completed the removal of the old tiles in the kitchen and dining area—it looks so much better! It was a lot of work, and some clean up remains, but it's surely an improvement.

Erin is working through a plan to return to school. Her work has agreed to let her reduce to part-time, so she's investigating course options. She would like to improve her financial/accounting qualifications. We got very good news on behalf of Kristian this week. Woodcrest (the school with specialization for hard-of-hearing children) has accepted his enrolment for the fall in Junior Kindergarten. They have already obtained permission for a full-time aide to work with him on development of his communication skills. So, unless his hearing deteriorates even further, we are very optimistic about this plan.

Travis is working steadily with his job at Impact Promotions, and also picks up contracts for other graphic or web-site projects from time to time. He is also taking the investment training program along with me, and cheering mightily on behalf of his Penguins who managed to finish off the Flyers this afternoon—Yay!

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

As the week began, we were up in Kenora, but now we are again on the shore of Lake Superior, in my hometown. We started off watching Kevin Martin lose to Scotland in the world curling championships. That was disappointing! Then, we watched Angel Cabrera win the green jacket at the Masters—I was cheering for Kenny Perry, although I'm happy enough with Cabrera's victory. And then, Eric/A arrived home, so we enjoyed a short visit with them. On Monday afternoon, we drove back to TBay and are enjoying springtime yard work, house cleaning, and a bit more work on renovations.

I am changing a few things about my garden project. I'm moving some of it to catch more sunshine, and I'm adding a 'potatoes-in-a-box' project. The lawn appears to be recovering nicely and I look forward to seeing whether my fancy 'green' grass can kill the quack grass! There are a few golfers out, but I haven't tried the course yet—just a bit of practice! My investment training continues. It's now six weeks, and I've managed to gain 18.0%. I've made fifty-three purchases, fifty-one sales and only three were at a loss. Now that I've learned more, I realize that two of those losses shouldn't have occurred either, so that's a very positive indication. I am determined to keep learning, and improve my discipline. As the course would describe it, I'm too emotionally attached to my purchases! (Imagine me being too emotional!) Anyway, that is how I understand my one bad purchase, and several other close calls!

Wendy has returned to wall paper and tile removal in the dining room. We haven't decided what to do about either flooring or painting, but we are committed to doing something!

I had another two days of work with the Territorial Student Program, and I have two more scheduled for next week.

Erin and Travis continue with their work. Kristian continues with his learning and growing. He enjoys the outdoors, but doesn't like to get his hands dirty. I think he would rather fall on his face, than have to use his hands to touch the dirt!

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

Happy Easter!

Another week has gone by here on the shore of Winnipeg River, in Kenora. We are staying at Eric/A's with the grandkids while Eric/A are vacationing in western Canada. We drove up here on Sunday afternoon, and have enjoyed the week here. There have been a few projects for both Wendy and I to put our attention to, so that has kept us busy. And I've also had a day of work for the local school district teaching about data exploration in TinkerPlots.

Throughout the week, I've enjoyed tracking the progress of Kevin Martin (my favourite curling team) in the world championships. After a ten-game winning streak, he has suffered back-to-back losses at the hands of Scotland, and now he must fight back to beat them in the final game tomorrow. The baseball season has started, so we've been following the early season success of the Blue Jays. And, of course, it's Masters time! Almost too many things to watch!

It's a beautiful spot here on the shore of the river, where we can usually watch the deer grazing on the lawn or playing on the river ice. We've been able to get out for pleasant walks as we explore the neighbourhood.

My investment training has continued with a class on Monday evening, and my investments have continued to grow as well. I've now managed 17.0% increase in my first five weeks.

The TinkerPlot workshop on Thursday went well. I enjoyed working with an old MISA comrade up here, and I am continuing to find it to be such a useful way to get information out of the overwhelming mass of data we collect in our schools.

Easter weekend provides four days off school for the boys, so they're enjoying that. And we're enjoying spending the time with them.

Erin and Kristian are holding down the fort back in TBay. Trav has finished his university program and is dedicated to his work and various projects. We plan to head back on Monday or Tuesday.

So, that's about it for this week.

News Update

Another week has blown by here on the shore of Lake Superior, in my home town. A change in the weather has blown away my illusion of an early golf season, as a major dump of wet snow on Tuesday night has obscured lawns and fairways from view. Boo hoo! However, as we moved along toward the weekend, rain and warmer weather began to reduce the drifts and increase our hopes!

Mid-week and the turn of the monthly calendar also brought with it the end of the MISA program that I've been working with for four years. Thankfully, this has also resulted in my getting paid for the work I've been continuing to do (for nothing since November!), as I have now been authorized to bill for services rendered. Of course, this demands an elaborate tracking mechanism, but I guess that's the cost of business. Speaking of business, I've continue to progress in my investments training and investment success. I've now gained 15.7% in just four weeks. The program anticipates such growth in seven months, but not four weeks. Clearly, I've been fortunate to enter the program while we experiencing at least a temporary Obama surge in the stock markets. However, our teachers counsel us that the Bush recession is likely to last into 2010, so not to get too excited!

Wendy has continued with her therapy and as she is experiencing success with her initial back and shoulder problems, has now extended the work to her feet. She has long-standing issues with her feet (I know, but it just demanded to be used!), and is hopeful for some improvement.

Erin continues with her work and is doing well despite the many frustrations there. Kristian continues with speech therapy and doctoring. One doctor is suggesting a potential source of his problems in genetics (Pendred Syndrome), so they may be sending him to Sick Children's in Toronto for further investigation. He got this idea from the CAT scan, as he observed two of the tell-tale characteristics in his inner ear. This can only be confirmed with a genetic check for the defective gene. Unfortunately even if this is confirmed, it doesn't point towards a therapy or solution. But who knows with stem cell research, perhaps some day...

Travis has completed his classes, but has one exam left and at least one paper to complete. Then he'll be able to leave the slack life of the student and get to work!! Actually, he has been working very hard both in his studies and in several jobs throughout his university years. We are very proud of his accomplishments!

Next week we plan to spend in Kenora, taking care of the grandkids as Eric/A take a short vacation, but that's about it for this week.

News Update

Another week has flown by on the shore of Lake Superior, in my home town. The weather has been cool and we've even had some freezing rain to create a day of driving and even walking havoc. I've been working as counsellor in the Territorial Student Program all week. One of my students fell on the icy sidewalks on Tuesday morning, so I spent most of that day in the emergency department of the hospital as she was checked over and eventually out. I definitely got the feeling that a greater degree of caution was being exercised after the unfortunate death of Natasha Richardson (well-covered by this Globe and Mail article) However, after the various diagnostic tests and images were examined, it was eventually decided that my child's back was not broken and her skull was not cracked. They even were refusing painkillers despite her protestations of headache and other pains. They wanted to be sure to get as clear evidence as they could from her. The remainder of the week was dull by comparison!

Travis and I have continued our investment training. And my investments under their program have continued to do well—14.3% in only three weeks! That can't continue!! Fortunately, they had me heavily invested in Petro-Canada when word came down of Suncor's attempted purchase—that turned a tidy 20% gain. Trav's university semester is ending, and we look forward to his graduation in May.

Wendy has continued under chiropractic care and seems to be doing much better and probably is near the end of her course of treatments. She enjoys playing multiple Scrabble games on line at the same time, and has recently taken up Sudoku. It's good to keep the brain active.

Erin has been working extra hard lately as issues seem to be piling up at work even as the economic pressures mount in the automotive industry. Kristian is progressing and the testing and referral process through various experts continue as well.

The fairways are starting to show up on the local golf courses, so the golf juices are beginning to flow, even though it will probably be a month before they actually open for play. Golfers who have an off-season, always imagine that some new technique or piece of equipment is bound to contribute to this being the best season ever! We look forward to finding that out!!

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

Another week has strolled by on the shore of Lake Superior in my home town. As the week started, we watched the Brier final and cheered my guy, Kevin Martin, to another championship.

The weather has been lovely, so Wendy and I have managed to get out for several leisurely walks. The dropping snowbanks have turned dark and ugly. The deck is cleared off, so we managed our first barbecue of the season on Thursday evening. Ah! I missed that flavour!

One thing I've failed to mention that last two updates is that Trav and I are now taking an investment training course on line. It has started well, and we've begun "paper trading"; I'll try to remember to keep you up-to-date on how that goes! So far it is going very well (7.4% gain), but we've had eight days of rising markets so I guess it doesn't take a genius to profit on that! I don't know how long it will be before we begin investing in reality!

I've continued to have a little work on my various projects. It's year end for MISA, so I've prepared the annual financial and progress reports. I'll be emailing them in on Monday. It'll be about six weeks before I hear anything further as far as project funding for next year. I'm hoping for at least one hundred days of work over the next year.

We got word on Thursday of our cousin Karen's passing after a battle with cancer. Another family memorial in a week full of them as both our mothers and several other family members are remembered this week.

Wendy has been getting treatment all week for her back. She seems to have a pinched nerve in the back of the shoulder, but it's been improving a lot this week.

Erin has begun looking for a different job as her growing lists of responsibilities at work has not been marked by a commensurate increase in compensation! She is also considering returning to school for more training. Kristian continues to progress in his speech. He is also getting more testing as they try to determine not only the extent of his disability but also what may have caused it.

Travis continues to keep busy and do well with both work and school.

And today, as a special treat, Erica & Haaken drove down from Kenora, so we're celebrating Erica's birthday in person! They head back tomorrow.

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

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior. The weather has been showing the promise of Spring, but also provided a blast of winter in the middle of the week and gave us another dump of snow. However, we're back in the plus territory again, with a prediction of rain! (The weather reports used to be characterized as 'promising' something, but I've grown too old, experienced and jaded to consider those expressions as promises!)

Wendy enjoyed a week out in Regina, although the weather was not congenial. She celebrated her dad's birthday with him last Saturday, and he returned the favour on Monday! She flew back home on Thursday. She continues to suffer with a pinched nerve in her back, and was to the doctor yesterday. Hopefully that will be overcome soon as I don't like rolling over onto a bag of frozen peas in my bed (or any other kind of peas in my bed!)

The rest of us survived at home as everyone pitched in to help out. Erin proved a good cook on occasion, and Kristian kept us entertained. Travis and I have begun an Investing course, so we'll see how that goes. Are we rich yet?! We had our first session on Monday evening. I have continued development of my Data Exploration workshops, and now have all three sessions planned. Now, we'll wait to see if anyone buys them! Actually, I've already sold the first two a couple of times, and I look forward to presenting all three in the next academic year.

The big distraction this week is curling. My curling hero, Kevin Martin, has cruised through undefeated so far and is in the final tomorrow against his old nemesis, Jeff Stoughton of Manitoba. Of course, he beat Jeff during the regular draw, so now he has to make it two in a row! Last year, I got to watch him in person at the Brier in Winnipeg as he won the championship. (My children are generous!)

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

The week starts with us driving up from Minneapolis to the shore of Lake Superior. It's nice to be home again. The weather is nice, and the snow is melting each day, with some rain helping the process. Wendy headed west on Thursday, flying out to Regina to help celebrate her dad's eighty-fourth birthday! Happy Birthday, Ellis!

Erin, Kristian & Travis have taken care of themselves in our absence, and it's nice to be home with them again. Kristian is progressing in his speech, and sometimes in his toilet training! BJ continues to get older, deafer and blinder! Some days he cannot even find his doggie treat!

I have been catching up on a few outstanding issues with some schools while calls and emails continue to bring new requests. I'm also developing an advertisement, update and request for continuing the funding of the data project. I can see this providing a regular thirty days of work per year if the Boards will keep funding it. The project is important for the schools and interesting work, so I hope it keeps going. I also make my regular lab trip for more blood-letting so they can check my PSA levels.

The daylight-saving time change weekend also makes us think of spring. It's a nice time of year as we seek renewal after the dormant time of winter. Although a little extra dormant time this week has been welcome as well! We're feeling refreshed in many ways.

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

Another week has rolled beneath our wheels, and we are nearing the shore of Lake Superior and my home town. We begin the week in Round Rock in the after glow of Jon & Jennifer's wedding. We wish them well as they honeymoon in Hawaii and begin their married life. We head off early Sunday morning for San Antonio and thus continue our journey of warm reunions and refreshed memories. Thank you Verner & Linda, Viggo & Nancy for hosting us in Dallas. Thank you Jon & Jennifer for bringing so many others together for the wedding. It was great to see Tom & Mariette, Gayla and her mom, and to meet so many new connections. We take along memories of our times spent with Luc and Jason as well. It was a great week, and this week continued the theme. Heat in the 30's greeted us in San Antonio and Abilene, but as the week progressed and we moved northward, the temperatures declined to the zero range in Lawrence and to -20's in Minneapolis.

We met up with Bern, Alicia & Logan at Oak Hills Church in San Antonio. Lynn & Carolyn hosted us for lunch and another batch of remembrances. We enjoyed two days with family–shopping, site-seeing, navigating, car-shopping, playing. Tuesday found us moving on to Abilene to visit with Shepherd, Ruhtt, Miguel, Melina & Manuel. A special joy was catching up with Renée, Chris, Kaden & Kaleb—it was so wonderful to hear and see how they are doing. We finally got our tour of ACU! Another precious time, more teary remembrances, another fond farewell. Much time was spent talking of Zambia and dreams. On Thursday we drove up to Oklahoma City and an unexpected reunion—as we drove into the parking area at OCU, we came upon Stan & Blair. Not only did they refresh our spirits, they provided us a parking space! Then Kresten found us, so we enjoyed a visit with him. After that we continued to Lawrence where Marti & Helen hosted us for Thursday and Friday nights. Actually, Helen abandoned us for sunny California! We hope she had a good time at the wedding.

This morning, I had the special privilege of helping Marti introduce TinkerPlots to her supervisor from Kansas University. Then, we headed north into snow and colder temperatures. Once again, the ditches were filled with cars and accidents abounded in the early going. Fortunately, the snow petered out in northern Missouri, and the roads were good after that. We're spending this night in Minneapolis and planning to complete the tour back to TBay tomorrow.

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

Another week has rolled by, and we have been far from the shore of Lake Superior, my home town! The week has been spent in Texas, where we have enjoyed the hospitality and celebration of our family culminating in the marriage of Jonathan and Jennifer.

We moved in with Verner & Linda upon our arrival in Texas. Thank you for taking care of us so generously! We enjoyed family days all week long. Wendy enjoyed much shopping, and exploring (unintentionally) most of northeast Dallas! It seems she got lost every time she went for a drive!

I got out for two golf games. The first, in Dallas, was with my brother, Viggo, at a course ominously named Waterview! I viewed a bit of water courtesy of my snap hook, and ended with a score of 88. After correction for two triples, this score actually helped my handicap–dropping it to 15.0. Then on Friday afternoon, Viggo and I joined our nephews, Jon & Luc, for a game at Round Rock. I didn't play well at all, and ended with a 98! That did not help my handicap, as it must have pushed one of my better scores out of consideration and my handicap rose to 15.3. But, I certainly had fun, and got more practise than most!

Saturday was the wedding day. It was a joyous affair (read: many tears were shed!), and we wish Jon & Jennifer well in their life together.

We have had email and VOIP contact with the crew back in Thunder Bay. All seems to be going well. Fresh snow has fallen while we've enjoyed our +20 climes in Texas! Kristian had his CT Scan on Friday, but we don't have any results to report yet.

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

News Update

Another week has rolled by and we have rolled far from the shore of Lake Superior. On Monday, we got the news confirmed that, yes, the shifter linkage was broken on the car. We ordered repairs and began our wait to see when we could actually head south. I had a bit of follow up work from the conference last week, and also worked a half-day in support of the Territorial Student Program. Late Wednesday, we got the call that the car was operational again, so we picked it up, and packed for a Thursday morning departure. I booked an appointment with the Apple store in the Mall of America in Minneapolis as I wanted some attention paid to some cosmetic damage on my laptop.

The drive south was uneventful and we arrived in Minneapolis two hours before my appointment, so I settled in a nice chair in the corridor, logged into Apple's Wifi, and caught up on my computer time! Wendy caught up on her shopping time, buying two pair of shoes! Then while Apple repaired the laptop, we went out to supper. After picking up the renovated laptop, we found a hotel and retired for the night. Wendy managed to score us a senior's discount on the handicap room, so with senior throne and everything it was almost as good (as Erica observed) as a theme room at West Edmonton Mall!

Friday morning found us heading south toward Lawrence KS where we planned to visit with Marti. Last year when we came through here the ditches were filled with snow and vehicles. Today, not a trace of either! I wonder what the moisture issues will be in this area. As we drove into Iowa, we ran into a fierce snow storm and soon began to observe that the ditches were collecting plenty of both snow and vehicles. We saw a few spectacular pile-ups–man, you have to avoid those drivers! Here was a semi jack-knifed and in the ditch. There was a four-vehicle pile up, complete with a U-Haul trailer. Yikes! We avoided everyone, made up for all those vehicles that has passed us in the last two days, and as we got into Missouri and approached Kansas City, the snow changed to rain. We rolled into Marti's just after 6pm. A lovely steak supper (thanks, Marti) and a session of TinkerPlots later, we called it a night.

This morning, we headed further south for Dallas and Verner & Linda's place. The day was long and we drove through a few showers but we finally got to there place about 7:30. Verner had a nice pot of chili waiting, so that was a warm welcome. It will be nice to settle down and stop the travelling for a few days.

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

A busy week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior in my home town. February Conference was the dominating feature, and as I had three half-day workshops, I found it very engaging! I had a half-day with the school secretaries, and since it bodes to be my last session with them, I was trying to tie up all loose ends—some knots remain to be tied! Then, I had a full day with the principals as I tried to take them from the yawning jaws of ignorance into the wonders of TinkerPlots data explorations! All sessions seemed to go well, so I felt good about that. I've continued to fight a cold all week—that didn't help. The extra $1500 does help!

The car went down again tonight. Trav was out with it, and after stopping for a train, it wouldn't shift back into drive. It seems the shift linkage must be broken, so, it is towed to the mechanics' place and we'll see what they say next week. We're hoping to head south some time next week, so this is not a good development.

Wendy seems to be getting over her cold. She has been keeping busy driving a friend around to various medical and other errands. Louise had angioplasty last week, so is not allowed to be driving on her own yet. Besides, she likes the company. Wendy has also been back to the gym a few times now that she is feeling better.

Erin, Kristian and Travis have continued with their usual schedules of work, school and day care.

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior. The weather has been quite nice, with only a little fresh snow today. I have spent most of my work time on the data project and preparing to present three sessions at the conference next week. I also have turned in two service proposals for the Boards to consider. These could provide some additional work over the next six months if they are accepted.

I have spent some additional hours in bed trying to short-circuit a cold that has been making the rounds of our household. Kristian brought it home, and ended up missing a couple days of work (day-care). Wendy got a bad dose of it and eventually had to visit the doctor and get some antibiotics. I've been fighting it for the last few days of the week, but I'm coughing a bit and was fighting that as I performed a marriage this afternoon. Dean & Kelly Haskayne were married–a lovely and short ceremony! And I did break down and wear a suit and tie for their occasion—the sacrifices I make!

Otherwise life continues, and we are no nearer determining what the next stage will bring. We do have a few options, but we aren't feeling particularly attracted by (or attached to) any of them.

Trav is part way through his final semester now, and with his light load is also managing to get quite a few hours in at work, so that's going well.

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior in the Precambrian Shield. We have enjoyed mild weather for the most of the week that allowed us to get the driveway cleared, and melted off. It's turned a bit colder for this weekend with a bit of additional snow.

I've spent the week in my common work pursuits. Most of the time was spent on the new data project, but that's nearly complete now. I've also continued to field calls for OnSIS, and got another school signed off. Only three schools to go and they're all in one community, which means I only have one secretary to work with. Unfortunately, that also means that the one secretary I have to work with is a bit of a problem! (where bit means large and unassailable!)

Wendy has continued to find job opportunities and make applications. She has begun work on the wedding cake for next Saturday. And she has been shopping for wedding duds for me; she's convinced that a suit and tie are required for the minister! I haven't owned such in many years! The last suit I bought was in 1980, and whenever the next one comes, it'll be too soon!

Tuesday was a diversion for us, as we spent many hours in front of the tube watching the inaugural goings-on from our neighbours to the south. I am certainly relieved to see Dubya head off into the sunset, although I continue to hope that someone will have the courage and initiative to bring several of that administration before war crime trials. It is disheartening to see the Republicans hold up the installation of the new attorney-general because he won't sign-off on that very notion. It's even bemusing to hear the lament over the announced closing of Gitmo as Republicans try to play their usual fear card over "the worst of the worst" (Rumsfield's words) returning to the battlefields. It appears that less than 5% of those released have been found to "return" (some are going for the first time after being traumatized by years in Gitmo!) to terrorist activity. You'd think that these same politicians might view this as a major triumph compared to the reported 65% of American prisoners who return to a life of crime after being released from prison! You'd think that... but you'd be wrong!

Wendy has also been suffering with a cold, but she has no time to take care of that. Kristian has developed a cold as well, so he spent Friday (off work!) home with us. Otherwise, he continues to progress with his listening, speaking and raising our joy level.

Erin and Travis continue with their usual routines of work and university.

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

A frigidly cold week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior, but the weather has moderated toward the weekend. We experienced a couple nights in a row with the low temperatures plunging to -30—and I reflected that my Yellowknife friends would be laughing! And they were! I checked the weather in Yellowknife and it was warmer than we were! What's with that?

We spent the week around home. I'm busy with the data project, and still getting regular calls for the OnSIS hotline! The OnSIS deadline was December 31st—is any one concerned?! About half my schools were signed off in time, and three more got signed off this week. I found out this week that I've successfully registered with the CANADEM Civilian Reserve Roster and the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations for international peace-building opportunities, so we'll see if something comes of that! I hear there are opportunities in Gaza! Not surprisingly, many of their opportunities are listed as non-family postings. What a world we live in! However, I'm encouraged that the Obama administration will bring a hopefulness to such operations.

Wendy and I have both continued to consider work opportunities around here. I've had an inquiry this past week from further afield, so we'll see whether that gets my attention. I have a local opportunity, but it doesn't pay much and I don't want to spend all my time working and have no time for golfing!

Erin and Kristian are doing well. He continues to develop his vocabulary and tries to say a lot of other, well I guess we can't call them words, although he clearly thinks they are! We got out sledding with him one day before it turned cold—he seemed to enjoy it.

Travis is spending a lot of time at work and school these days. Must be more going on than just work and school!!

And that's about it for this week.

News Update

Another week has passed on the shore of Lake Superior. We arrived back in TBay on Sunday evening to a large collection of snow in the driveway. Erin has been doing her best to keep a clear path for her car, but has not been able to use the snowblower, so there are heaping piles of snow congesting access for our car. The car has performed fine on its first trip with the new engine. Fuel consumption was very similar to what we were used to with the original engine—very good!

We enjoyed the visits with many of friends and family while travelling west, and it's good to be home again. I shovelled and blew snow for a couple of hours Sunday evening to get us parked, and Wendy and I have carried on throughout the week to almost have the driveway clean again.

I've continued looking for other work, and have applied on a job with the Independent Learning Centre to travel the northwest and supervise testing programs. I've also been working on the Data Project and spent a half day training the Territorial Student Program counsellor in a new data base for her students.

Wendy has applied herself to getting her house back in order, and doing some more baking so we don't lose our Christmas fat too quickly! It seems to be working! She mended my old blue jeans—ahhh, comfort! And she, also, has continued to apply on possible jobs in accounts.

Erin has delighted in having Kristian home again! He's back at Day Care and his speech therapy. He's considering the possibility of toilet training, but no so seriously as his mother is!

Travis is busy back at school, but has a fairly light load this final semester.

And that's about it for this week!

Happy New Year!

Another week has passed and we have been away from the shore of Lake Superior, out to the centre of the prairie. We drove out from Kenora to Regina on Sunday, a distance of about 800 km, and we have rounded out the week by returning to Kenora today. In between we have enjoyed time with family and friends in Regina, and had the special treat of a visit with our friends from Zambia! Fortunately, Saskatchewan saved a particularly wintry blast for them! A blizzard blew through on New Year's eve, and temperatures have generally dipped into the -20 range each night.

We stayed the week with Wendy's dad—thanks for putting us up, and putting up with us! Kresten and Ashley were there when we arrived, but Ashley headed off to Mexico to spend some time with her family there, and Kresten travelled with friends to spend New Year's in Manitoba, (returning just yesterday) but not before a memorable evening of Texas Hold'em where Kresten eventually emerged victorious! Dave dropped by from time to time, so we also got to catch up with him. We heard from Rich & Sue—now in Cape Town, and chatted both on the phone and on line with Bern & Alicia in Mexico. It was good to hear from many friends with year end letters, emails, newsletters. I am thankful to be kept in mind, and to get news of other's activities.

For us, New Year's Eve was celebrated at Barb & Ed's in Regina, with several other of our Zambian connection friends helping Ruhtt, Shepherd and family enjoy a Canadian blizzard. Thursday found us at another gathering where Ruhtt & Shepherd made a presentation about their work in Zambia. Many reminiscences—not a few tears—a great time! Now we're back at Eric & Erica's in Kenora, and planning to complete the tour back to TBay tomorrow.

Erin reports a large dump of snow back there, and she's been shovelling away at that to keep her car available for daily trips to work. Kristian has been travelling with us, so there has been frequent call for video chats with mom back home in TBay. Today, as we drove to Kenora, we ran into more and more snow, so we'll have to dig out the driveway before departing for TBay.

Anyway, that's about it for this week.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.