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• The Day that wasn't,,,, -- Ellie (..), 16:30:07 07/30/07 Mon (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Hey Ladies. Thought you might to have a laugh about my (aborted) day out. I'd planned to meet my longest time friend Ruth.We've known each other since we were in our teens. I don't drive, so it takes me two trains to get to the suburb where Ruth lives. The first train only takes a few minutes, but the other one takes nearly an hour. We'd arranged to meet at the destination station at 10am, as I didn't have a time table, and didn't want to have Ruth waiting for me in the cold at the station, I left home at 8am. The first train was no bother, but at the 'changeover' station I waited and waited, trains came for every which way but the one I wanted. Finally after an HOUR of waiting my train arrived and I was so glad to get into the warmth and get a window seat.
  So I get to the station where Ruth was to meet me, and no Ruth. It was cold and drizzling rain, I stood and waited, waited, no Ruth. Okay, ring her. No, the pay phone on the station was out of order, and I didn't want to leave the station in case she arrived and found me not there.
  So I waited there for an hour, and finally cold and upset I decided I'd just have to take the next train(s) home.
  When I got home I rang Ruth. Simple! Ruth was of the understanding that I was going to walk to her place from the station (I wasn't even really sure of the way) and I was of the understanding that she was driving to the station to pick me up!
  Well, in the end we had a good laugh, and plan to arrange another time with clearer indications of who is meeting where!
  

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  • Re: The Day that wasn't,,,, -- Tina Swinimer, 13:40:37 08/02/07 Thu
  • Re: The Day that wasn't,,,, -- Phyllis, 17:36:13 08/08/07 Wed
  
  
• Re The Lake. -- Ellie, 09:36:56 07/26/07 Thu (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Tina, what a beautiful place the lake sounds like. What is the lake's name? How wonderful that you can go alone (and Bo) or have a whole wonderful family happening there.
  My daughter and her husband have been holidaying in the Northern Territory in the far north of Australia. They've been in Darwin (the capital city up there) for the last two weeks, and now are heading back down south. A few nights ago they went on a conducted tour.. a barbeque then out on a boat on the river to look at the crocodiles! oooh!
  Much warmer up there, it's been very cold here down south.. and I haven't been doing anything nearly as exciting as crocodile watching!
  

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  • Re: Re The Lake. -- Tina Swinimer, 14:48:48 07/30/07 Mon
  
  
• Dodo -- Tina Swinimer, 13:22:51 07/14/07 Sat (hlfx57-2b-86.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.12.86)
  Has anyone ever heard lately from or about the lady who called herself Dodo? She was so interesting and did beautiful photography.She lived in Australia,had her Mom living with her and some dogs.It has been months since I heard from her but I thought someone from here would remember or still be in contact with her.
  

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  • Re: Dodo -- Ellie, 03:15:14 07/20/07 Fri
  • Re: Dodo -- Tina Swinimer, 15:07:08 07/22/07 Sun
  
  
• Wedding -- Phyllis, 17:31:51 07/11/07 Wed (dial-66-218-12-86.usadatanet.net/66.218.12.86)
  Hi Ellie & Tina,
  
  First of all, congratulations Tina on the beautiful wedding. Your description was awesome and I wish them a happy lifetime together.
  
  Ellie I enjoyed reading about your children's outdoor wedding.
  
  I am hoping that a wedding will follow soon for my son. I will keep you both posted.
  
  My computer was down for several days. I found out it was a internet provider issue. I was trying to get on line and received message regarding problem with confirguration. I spend l l/2 hrs on phone (good thing toll free number) trying to resolve problem and was told that my internet provider would report it to administration. Yesterday, I receive a phone call from them and was told the problem was resolved. I am happy as my computer is very old but not in my budget at this time for a new one.
  
  I am having major tree work done this Saturday. One of trees has a couple of branches that extend to my back yard neighbor's roof. I call the tree expert and decided to have several other work done of other trees as some of the branches need to be trimmed. Also a large butternut tree needs to be completely removed as it is showing signs of rotting.
  
  I still have not rented my apartment as there seems to be a large number of vacant ones in our area. This is the 3rd week that I have placed my ad in the newspaper. Wish me luck.
  
  I am watching Kaitlyn 3 days this week as Susan (my high school friend and sitter) has a couple of days off. My daughter has also taken one day off so I will not get over tired from my active granddaughter, Kaitlyn. She still takes an afternoon nap and I am grateful as it gives me time to relax. She is so much fun and I enjoy every minute of our days together. It must be so hard when they get older and we are no longer the center of their attention.
  Once they go off to school things will change.
  
  Well I must attend to some household chores. Great to chat with you both and send my best.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Wedding -- Tina Swinimer, 13:30:01 07/12/07 Thu
  
  
• Wedding.. -- Ellie., 02:41:55 07/08/07 Sun (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Tina, how beautiful the wedding sounded, so picturesque and happy. I love outdoor weddings. My youngest son and bride were married in the beautiful Rose Gardens in her home town up country. Second son and his wife were married on the lawn under the Sydney Harbor Bridge!
  To me there is something spiritually all enveloping to be married surrounded by nature.. not that the Sydney Harbor Bridge is actually nature! but you know what I mean, beautiful water views across the Harbor.
  I wish your daughter and her new husband long and happy lives together.
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Wedding.. -- Tina Swinimer, 12:13:54 07/09/07 Mon
  
  
• wedding -- Tina Swinimer, 14:51:27 07/07/07 Sat (hlfx47-132.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.97.132)
  Phew! A rest period...My daughters wedding went great,married on Canada day,outdoor weeding,the stood by LaHave river in their back yard between half barrels of beautiful flowers to get married..it was perfect weather.
  second marriage for both so they wore Canada day colors,she in a red and white dress,red shirt for him,the reception went so well,over a 100 guests,he comes from a big family as she also does.They had a pair of big horses to take people for wagon rides,lots and lots of food etc.
  The bridal shower a few days before the wedding was in my other daughters back yard-by the same river but a few miles down , a fine evening and lots of fun.]
  Havent gotten to the lake much yet this summer,there has been lots of rainy days but when we do have sunny days I get up there,should be able to go more often now that the wedding and other events are over.My little dog sure keeps me busy-he loves to play and go for walks.What a joy he is!
  Ellie and Phyllis you are having fun times too, so glad to hear.The play sounds like a real fun adventure Ellie.
  Must scram..hubby will soon be up for his brecky.
  All the best to you ladies! and anyone else looking in-lol
  

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• Re three fun weeks and other stuff. -- Ellie., 02:05:28 07/02/07 Mon (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Phyliss, so glad you had such a great time with your Florida family, and then again for Kaitlyn's second birthday party.
  Yes, our winter did seem to happen quickly.It was warm through most of Autumn,then just segued into very cold without a gradual change over. I hope you get some new very good tenants for your place soon Phyliss.
  Not too much happening here really outside the normal day to day things, but I am working on a play script with my friend Cate, to be performed at our local Northern Notes writing festival in October. It's called The Princess and the Cane Toad! If you don't know cane toads are very noxious and undesirable critters here, so it's a kind of take off in a way of the old fairy story of the princess kissing the frog, but the play also has many environmental aspects to it as well.
  Must go, shopping today.. my cats are demanding FOOD!
  Have a good week.
  Ellie.
  

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• 3 fun weeks -- Phyllis, 16:36:47 06/19/07 Tue (dial-66-218-17-19.usadatanet.net/66.218.17.19)
  Hi Ellie & Tina,
  
  I had a great visit with my son and his girlfriend. They spend time with family members here in New Hampshire. My daughter and her husband held a cookout one day. My daughter, son and his girlfriend and myself spend one day visiting the beach in Maine. We all walked the marginal way which is a beautiful scenic site along a path to view the breaking waves. One day my son and his girlfriend went hiking in the White Mountain area. They both are very well suited as they share the same interest in the outdoors. We also went out to eat at the Italian restaurant. Kaitlyn enjoyed dining with everyone. She was very happy to have a few french fries along with her meal. My son is her Godfather, so he was happy to see how Kaitlyn has grown since his last trip in October.
  
  After they left back to Colorado, I packed to leave for Florida to visit my other son and his family. Michael (my ex-husband) traveled to Florida with me. We brought carry on luggage only so we did not have to check in any other baggage. It makes it much easier to travel. The flight was great and takes about 3 hrs. It is great to have a companion to travel with.
  
  My granddaughters, Ariana (age 5) and Athena (age 3& l/2) were so excited to see us. We went to their dance recital rehearsals and then to a beautiful large auditorium for the final recital. We took so many pictures. Our family also enjoys seeing them as my sisters do not like to fly. It was fun spending time visiting and of course out to eat often. Our oldest granddaughter cried for an hour after we left to return to N.H.
  
  Once back home, it was time to celebrate Kaitlyn's 2nd birthday party. My daughter held it at a dance studio. One of Kaitlyn's best friend, Katie (age 4)who's mother owes the studio attended. Kaitlyn ran all around and looked in the mirrows and had a great time with her family and friends.
  
  Then, this last Saturday, we held a second small party with strawberry shortcake here at my house as my older sister and her husband could not make Kaitlyn's party at the dance studio. My best friend Nancy also came to celebrate too.
  
  I now expect to return to my normal routine. I will be busy as my tenants gave me their notice that they will be leaving the end of this month. They bought a Condo. They have been excellent tenants. I will be advertising in our local newspaper soon. I hope that I will find good tenants again. It is very difficult and I do not look forward to the process. One big expense for people here in the Northeast is the price of oil. It is very expensive to heat as the price has doubled over the last year. I do have all new windows and had insulation in the attic but this is a very old house and I cannot afford siding and major insulation.
  
  Ellie,
  
  I did read your e-mail about your cold weather. It seems like it came on fast.
  
  Tina,
  
  I am glad that Bo was able to travel with you. Please give him a hug from me.
  
  I guess I wrote so much but wanted to catch you gals up on my busy, fun activities.
  
  Have a good week.
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: 3 fun weeks -- Tina Swinimer, 12:53:23 06/25/07 Mon
  
  
• Hello -- Ellie., 07:59:26 06/15/07 Fri (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  We are all very quiet, aren't we? I haven't really had much social exitement going on for a while. Tina, your stay away at the holiday place sounded lovely, and great that Bo could go too.Some guesthouses, etc here will accept pets, but many more won't.
  It is SO cold here now (Am I the one that was complaining about heat just a few months ago?!) Well, now the mornings are freezing, we don't get snow here, but we do get thick fogs,frost and hail.
  My cat Grania is currently lying on the window sill here near my desk to get what little afternoon sunshine there is. She likes that, as well as keeping warm she can look out over the big yard next door and watch the birds and the trees.
  My little grandson Ben, in Sydney has his first birthday on June 22.. so I have a couple of gifts to post up to him tomorrow.
  Keep well everyone.
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Hello -- Tina SWinimer, 13:42:23 06/16/07 Sat
  
  
• mishmash -- Tina SWinimer, 02:35:55 06/12/07 Tue (hlfx26-117.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.76.117)
  Well I have been lazy,not up to par since I had the flu and on 4th perscription to try to get rid of bladder infection.
  I did get away to the other side of the province for a few days with daughter,youngest granddaughter and my puppy,stayed at a fancy hotel and was surprised that you can take your dogs there, beautiful indoor pool,nice park across the street,visited about 5 beaches on the way home.
  Bo the puppy behaved perfectly, today at home he is a little devil,its raining out ..pouring actually so we got no walk today,he hates rain.
  only thing coming up this week is a luncheon with the church group for our final get together "our ladies group"
  as an outing until Saptember,we will see each other in church.
  I used to move to the lake first week in May, here it is middle of June, or just about and I haven't stayed up there one night yet, It has been cold, damp or just plain downpours..one advantage is that everything is looking so richly green, flowers blooming etc.We were lucky to have fine days on our trip.
  Hope all is fine for you Ellie and Phyllis.
  

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• An Arty Week. -- Ellie, 12:48:25 05/23/07 Wed (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Hi, well I'm getting cultured. Tuesday night of last week the project I work for launched an art show at St francis pastoral centre in the city. It's part of Reconciliation Week. About 50 people turned up for the launch, lots of beautiful paintings, lovely refreshments, it all went very well. Then last Sunday afternoon I went to a performance of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' with my friend, Cate. It was excellent.The sword fight was with real swords.. a bit scary! Then tomorrow night I've been invited to the launch of another art show.
  Phyliss I hope you have a lovely time with your son/girlfriend.. don't panic about the cleaning.. they're coming to see YOU not the state of your house.LOL!
  

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  • Re: An Arty Week. -- Tina Swinimer, 13:41:58 05/25/07 Fri
  
  
• Sharing in your sorrow regarding Brandi -- Phyllis, 17:11:49 05/21/07 Mon (dial-66-218-11-66.usadatanet.net/66.218.11.66)
  Tina,
  
  I am so sorry to read about Brandi. I know how difficult it is to have a beloved pet of so many years leave this earth. Please know that I am thinking of you and send my sympathy to you and your family.
  
  It has been a month since I loss Rufus and like you I will always carry the many memories of him in our hearts. They will always be part of our family and I know that you gave Brandi lots of love and care.
  
  
  Ellie, I was happy to read about the wonderful time with your son's family. It is truly amazing how 2 year olds have such a good vocabulary at such a young age. Kaitlyn will turn 2 on June 7th. She is so much fun as she likes to play with a variety of toys. I notice a big difference the last week as she would actually play for longer periods of time and show her imagination while playing.
  
  I will really be busy, as my son and his girlfriend are coming to New Hampshire this Saturday. They will be staying with me, so I have been doing lots of house cleaning that needed to be done. I spend all the last 2 days cleaning (it was raining out both days). I am excited to meet his girlfriend for the first time. They will arrive on Saturday and will be leaving on Tuesday. Then Friday I will be leaving for Florida. The following weekend we will be celebrating Kaitlyn's birthday. My daughter is having it at a dance studio hall. It will be a family party with 2 young children that Kaitlyn plays with.
  
  My best to both of you and again Tina, I am so very sad to hear about Brandi.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Sharing in your sorrow regarding Brandi -- Tina Swinimer, 13:27:13 05/25/07 Fri
  
  
• Catching up.. -- Ellie, 15:25:08 05/19/07 Sat (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Tina, a little message re Brandi below for you. Sorry I've been a while getting back.. some home problems. So Yes, Sydney was great, beautiful fine, sunny weather, lovely being with my son, d-in law, and the 2 little boys Alexander is now 2 1/2.. Amazing vocabulary for a 2 year old, and the baby, Ben will be one in June.. such a sweetie, lovely blue eyes and he smiles and smiles.. We did lots of things, the markets, harbor walks, went to the maritime museum, some beautiful parks and gardens, and one night Darren and I went to see a play together. The train trip)s) were long.. 12 hours each way.. the day train going up was good, came back on a night train, didn't really enjoy that as I don't sleep well, or at all really, on overnight travelling.
  Well, have a laugh.. my cat is STILL monopolising my computer chair.. I thought she would have given up by now!
  Glad you all had a nice Mothers Day.. we had a family lunch at my daughters, which was very nice..pumpkin soup (afavorite of mine) and a wickedly delicious caramel tart with cream.. all had to go for a walk afterwards to shake off some calories!
  AT LAST we are getting some good rain, and if we get followups, hopefully the drought will be declared OVER, it's lovely to see the grass all green again instead of dry and brown.Winter doesnt officially start till June 1, but the weather is much cooler.
  I don't think we will get snow Tina.. in my suburb it snows like once in 100 years!
  Hope you are feeling better now after the flu.
  Phyliss, I hope you enjoy your Florida trip as much as I enjoyed mine to Sydney.
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Catching up.. -- Tina Swinimer, 13:10:13 05/21/07 Mon
  
  
• Brandi -- Tina Swinimer, 12:23:15 05/18/07 Fri (hlfx60-2a-180.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.110.180)
  It is a good thing we don't always know what the future holds. When I last posted ,little did I know that would be Brandis last day. She went off her feet and went into fits,from there to throwing up.With great difficulty we got her in the back of my station wagon,The vet said she was too far gone to save so we did the kind thing and hastened her going.We will miss her companionship so very much and also the quiet way she had of nudging us to let us know if someone was coming in the yard.She was never a noisy dog or bad dog.Cruelly treated as a pup she was always afraid of tall thin men especially if they had a baseball cap on.We learned that the man who beat her always wore a baseball cap.I will miss our walks, our walks lately were very short because her left hip would tire too quickly and she would limp but on our last vet visit a few weeks ago nothing led the vet or myself to think she had such a short time left.
  Phyllis the poem was so heartwarming under the circumstances for you and for me..thank you so much for sharing.
  

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  • Re: Brandi -- Ellie, 15:09:09 05/19/07 Sat
  
  
• Back from Sydney -- Ellie., 16:48:11 05/09/07 Wed (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Hello! I got back from Sydney yesterday morning..had a wonderful time with family, but am very tired, so will fill you on the holiday news later. Lots of things have been happening.
  When I got home yesterday my cat Grania was firmly in possession of my computer chair, and when I tried to lift her off she gave me a sharp nip! So I had to bring in one of the orange kitchen chairs to sit and use my computer.She hasn't given up yet, is still clinging possessively to it and I'm still using the kitchen chair!
  

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  • Re: Back from Sydney -- tina swinimer, 14:48:55 05/16/07 Wed
  • Re: Back from Sydney -- Phyllis, 21:02:17 05/16/07 Wed
  
  
• thanks -- tina swinimer, 03:30:16 05/02/07 Wed (hlfx53-2a-222.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.103.222)
  Thanks ladies for sharing my joy with my puppy.I felt guilty saying about him when Phyllis just went through a sad time but I think you understand.
  Phyllis I wish we had an Italian restaurant handy but to find the nearest it is an hour away by car.
  I bet you can hardly wait to get to Florida to see you other family members.
  Ellie how are things going there, still keeping busy? I bet your fall isn't as cold as our spring is this year.All I hear on the radio and t.v. is global warming,this little corner of the earth didn't warm up yet? I bet I eat my words in the middle of summer!lol
  Have a great week ladies.
  P.S..Ellie Zoe was singing not playing an instrument,sorry I wasn't plain in explaining,I was just too excited-lol
  

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  • Re: thanks -- Phyllis, 16:39:34 05/14/07 Mon
  
  
• Welcome Bo! -- Ellie., 15:49:45 04/30/07 Mon (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Welcome home little Bo. And Tina, congrats on Zoe's performances, but you didn't say what instrument(s) she plays?
  Ellie.
  

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• puppy -- tina swinimer, 14:39:17 04/29/07 Sun (hlfx55-2b-43.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.10.43)
  My puppy Bo is finally home, they called yesterday that I could come for him,what a charmer, at just under 7 weeks he cries to let me know when the bathroom trip is needed.
  He slept through his first night with only needing the pee at 3 am which is when I usually go anyway=lol
  Phyllis puppies are a lot of work but I hope if you don't need a big dog for protection that you at least get yourself a little one, or a good one from a shelter that is through the puppy stage if that suits you better.
  I know you are heartbroken but to know you are giving another one the happiness you gave before is a great feeling.
  Ellie I know how the little fibs to ease childrens feelings can backfire,with 7 children I also learned the hard way.
  Now ladies I have to be like a rooster and crow a bit.
  Zoe my granddaughter came first on 2 different days of the 5 day music festival and 2nd on the other days. At eleven years old it is quite an achievement.
  We are having spring weather and along with the warmer temperatures April showers.
  Ellie I wish you a good fall and winter that is not too harsh in any way.
  All the best ladies.
  

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  • Re: puppy -- tina swinimer, 14:41:28 04/29/07 Sun
  • Re: puppy -- Phyllis, 20:07:50 04/29/07 Sun
  
  
• Re sad news. -- Ellie., 06:48:19 04/29/07 Sun (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Phyliss, I am sorry to hear about Rufus.. but rejoice in the fact that he had a full and happy life, and there is something rather wonderful in the fact that it was Earth Day, and bells rang just after Rufus went.
  As for Kaitlyn, I think little children understand more than we give them credit for. My son when he was young kept pet mice. He called one of them 'Honey' as she was a very pretty honey color.
  My first little grandaughter who was only two at the time loved Honey and looked for her everytime she visited. Then Honey died. My grandaughter was looking for her in the mouse cage and asking 'Where's Honey>?' We started off on this elaborate story of how Honey had gone to sleep, and this 2 year old said 'No. Honey died."
  We don't know if at two she had any real conception of 'death' but it kind of made us feel silly that we were 'prettying it up' for her.
  Anyway, I hope you will find it in your heart to give a home and love to another dogs sometime Phyliss.. never forgetting Rufus of course.
  

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• Sad News -- Phyllis, 00:12:28 04/23/07 Mon (dial-66-218-18-86.usadatanet.net/66.218.18.86)
  Hi Tina & Ellie,
  
  Today I called the vet to make a house call as my beloved golden retriever, Rufus had a very very hard time making it back into the house up the ramp. It was the first time I heard him cry up in pain. He had been getting worse the last couple of days.
  
  My daughter and sister came over to be with me and we all said our goodbyes. I had 3 hours with him before the vet was schedule to come and know that it was the right thing to do. My heart is broken but peace in knowing he was at his home when the moment arrived. The church bells rang outside shortly afterwards and today was Earth Day. I know it will take me a long time to adjust. I am grateful that I share our special bond for 15 years and that we made it through the winter months.
  
  When Kaitlyn asks for him, we have decided to tell her that he went to Rainbow Bridge.
  
  Sadly,
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Sad News -- tina swinimer, 14:29:29 04/23/07 Mon
  
  
• Hello! -- Ellie., 23:53:41 04/21/07 Sat (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  No, I'm not off on the trip yet.Not till May 4th. I leave on the train at 8-30am and it gets to Sydney at about 8 that night. Yesterday we got RAIN!It wasn't really heavy.but it did last most of the afternoon/evening, and it's a start. We really need a drought breaker or farmers and consumers are going to be in big trouble.. already the price of fruit and vegies are shooting up. But not to be gloomy,we all have much to be thankful for.
  Tina, your grandaughter sounds so beautiful, and I wish her every happiness for her wedding.
  Here's a happy ending to a cat tale! Afew weeks ago a dear friend of mine went off to Tasmania for a holiday. She has two loved cats, and had arranged to put them in a cattery for the time she was away. The day before she left one of them Smoky, disappeared. She looked and called but he didn't come, so in the end she had to take the other one to the cattery, and ask neighbours to look out for Smoky and put food out if they saw him.
  The day she got home she heard loud miaowing and started searching the yard, and found Smoky locked in the garden shed. He must have slipped in there without her seeing and she had locked him in, and he's been in there without food or water for twelve days!! Yes, he's alive, and fine.. she's thinks he must have survived on mice as they did now and then get into the shed. Guess Smoky used up a few of his nine lives that time!
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Hello! -- tina swinimer, 14:13:10 04/22/07 Sun
  
  
• storm -- tina swinimer, 14:43:32 04/17/07 Tue (hlfx59-1-76.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.109.76)
  Phyllis I hope the storm isn't too cruel in your area..we are currently having high winds,gusts 90 to 100,I have made a thermos of hot water,put buckets of water in the bath tub to flush the toilet if the power goes out. I promised to help feed the seniors who can't feed themselves at todays birthday party at the nursing home so I hope the wind dies down a bit,I have to pick up another lady on the way there.
  My prayers are with the families of those students who were shot or injured in that terrific shooting in Virginia yesterday.Parents,Aunts,Uncles,grandparents,sisters and brothers and many others will feel the pain of it for years and some for their lifetime.
  My oldest Granddaughter who has cystic fibrosis is 30 today.Years ago cf children never lived to get through their teens, research surely helped them.She is planning a fall wedding,she is a massage therapist, a very beautiful
  Marilyn Munro look but natural blonde hair,beautiful pale blue eyes.When she was 2 and 3 years old we never dreampt she would live to see 30 but then the times capsules for enzines were discovered.
  Here I am ramblin on again,Phyllis I hope all goes well for you through the storm.
  Ellie if you are not already on your trip..wishing you a wonderful one.
  

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  • Re: storm -- Phyllis, 18:07:15 04/17/07 Tue
  
  
• Beautiful Day in Melbourne too! -- Ellie, 01:40:11 04/15/07 Sun (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Hello Tina and Phyliss and any others.. lovely to hear your Easter news. The Autumn weather here is still beautiful, fine, sunny and blue.. but Oh.. we heed that rain! Some trees are at last starting to color their leaves, yesterday the gutters were full of golden leaves from the ginko trees,just beautiful to see. Whow, Tina, so many ducks! I only have to feed 2 cats and one goldfish!
  Phyliss, what a lovely Easter celebration with family, and the meal sounded great. Good Friday afternoon some of my family got together at youngest sons home, they were just back from a holiday in England.. we had freshly baked scones with jam and cream and toasted hot cross buns.. very
  more-ish. I am going up to Sydney (700 miles away) in early May to spend a few days with second son, his wife, and their 2 little boys. I'm going by train.. it's a long trip,around 12/13 hours, but I like train travel.
  Have a good week.
  

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  • Re: Beautiful Day in Melbourne too! -- Tina Swinimer, 14:06:14 04/15/07 Sun
  • Re: Beautiful Day in Melbourne too! -- Phyllis, 23:49:55 04/15/07 Sun
  
  
• A Beautiful Day Here in New England -- Phyllis, 17:44:44 04/09/07 Mon (dial-69-67-234-39.usadatanet.net/69.67.234.39)
  Hi Ellie & Tina,
  
  Thanks for both your postings and I enjoyed reading about your Easter family celebrations.
  
  We did not have any snowstorm since our last one last week.
  It was similar to yours Tina. It cause alot of electrical outages and trees were in the road due to the heavy wet snow.
  
  I was very glad that weather was good so my older sister and her husband could join us for Easter dinner. She lives about l/2 hour drive and lives out in the country and when it snows, it really drifts and makes travel impossible.
  
  My sisters and their husbands, my daughter, son-in-law, granddaughter Kaitlyn (age 22 months), ex-husband and a family friend came to celebrate Easter. Rufus (my golden retriever) was very excited to have so much company. By nightime he was totally wipped out.
  
  We had baked ham, scalloped potatoes, mashed potatoes, spinach pie, coleslaw (from Kentucky Fried Chicken) Italian bread, salad, green beans & carrots. We also had blueberry and apple pie for dessert. It was a great time and I sent some food home with others to enjoy.
  
  Today I am relaxing and catching up on a few things. I spend all day Saturday baking and cleaning house for the company. I have a large spare bedroom which is very cluttered (handy for storing thing) and I kept the door closed. One of my goals is to sort and throw thing out. I have so many clothes that I do not wear and will be donating some in the bins we have here in our area. It seems though once retired that we still remain very busy and there is plenty of other things we would rather focus on then tackling a cluttered bedroom.
  
  Our weather forecast states we may have another snowstorm on Thursday. I hope not.
  
  I hope you have a good week.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: A Beautiful Day Here in New England -- tina swinimer, 15:45:41 04/13/07 Fri
  
  
• about yesterdays post.. -- Tina Swinimer, 15:14:11 04/09/07 Mon (hlfx47-5.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.97.5)
  Never made it to church but got plowed out in time to go to the family gathering,we each took something towards the dinner and it was a great variety..actually they came with a 4 wheel drive to pick me up, my car is just an ordinary car,it couldn't get out of my driveway , the roads were all plowed and travelling good, I received fruit baskets and potted lilies for gifts for Ralston & I, he would not brave the weather so he missed a wonderful day with family and friends.Hope you all had a great day!
  

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• Snow for Easter..about 20 cent out now -- Tina Swinimer, 04:04:23 04/08/07 Sun (hlfx49-142177099179.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.99.179)
  Tomorrow morning is Easter Sunday..the Easter bunny will have to borrow Santas sled....because we have more snow than we had anytime in 2006/07 winter and this is supposed to be spring.
  Phyllis I suppose you got this snow either early today or yesterday. Before it got dark tonight it was so beautiful out because this is one of those wet snows that hang on all the tree limbs and the bushes and makes everything look like a fairytale village.
  Hope we can all get to gather at Cynthias tomorrow after church..hope we can get to church..oh well we must take it as it comes.Happy and blessed Easter Phyllis and Ellie ,you and yours and anyone else joining in.Lots of love is sent your way!!
  

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• Happy and blessed Easter. -- Ellie., 01:11:21 04/06/07 Fri (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Hello. It's the morning of Good Friday here.Australia gets in first again! Hope you have a lovely time with family/friends. Later today I will be visiting with family. Youngest son,Simon, his wife, and their baby got back last weekend from 3 weeks in England, so this will be a catch-up. I have gifts, bunnies and eggs, for the 2 little girls, Jemillah (great grandaughter) 20 months, and Matilda (grandaughter)16 months.
  Tina, Bo sounds a delightful little man, and I don't think you are at all silly to get him, pets bring such joy into our lives--- well sometimes! I had a real fight with Grania my grey cat the other night, she's always been such a spirited independent cat. It was to do with replacing the old council tag on her collar with the new one. Well, she fought me, wouldn't let me got her collar off, and then when I did, wouldn't let me get it on again. I had to resort to subterfuge and sneak up behind her while she was eating and slip it on. The other cat Feller, just peacefully let me do what I wanted.. he's a really laid back boy.
  Autumn weather now, and beautiful, calm.sunny, cool/mild days, so restful after the heat of summer.
  Blessings to all
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Happy and blessed Easter. -- Tina Swinimer, 15:16:37 04/06/07 Fri
  
  
• enjoying posts -- Tina swinimer, 14:59:16 03/27/07 Tue (hlfx49-142177099240.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.99.240)
  Ladies I really enjoyed your posts and could "feel" the joy on your enjoying activities with your families.
  Our wagon ride was great fun, we had a wonderful day for it. It has been a bit dull around here since then,but then again I have done a foolish thing, I have missed having a small dog, Brandi is a big dog and I love her but I really miss the cuddly type so I have spoken for a little fellow, chinses chin/shitzu mix. My daughters have promised me they will look after him if I get sick again or if I do that big trip to the beyond.
  I know this is selfish of me but I keep feeling I have to do it. It will be 4 weeks until I get him. I have been to see him several times and decided to name him Bo like beau but in chinese Bo means cherished one.
  Brandi always was used to having a small dog around too so I think it will do her good.
  Our weather has been rather nice but we are still getting
  minuses in the evenings.
  Have a great week ladies.
  

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  • Re: enjoying posts -- Phyllis, 19:42:00 03/31/07 Sat
  
  
• puppy -- Tina swinimer, 14:05:39 03/28/07 Wed (hlfx29-155.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.79.155)
  the puppy is Japanese chin and shitzu mix not chinese chin as I stated.
  

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• Slow again! -- Ellie., 00:29:26 03/25/07 Sun (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Good morning Girls! It's early morning here, and one of those confusing times.We just came off daylight saving last night, but by now after several months ON it, I woke up an hour earlier as usual. At last we are getting a little rain and some pretty Autumn weather after one more horribly hot day. This morning my daughter and son-in law are arriving to take me on a visit to a beautiful historic garden called 'Heronswood' so I'm. looking forward to that.
  Phyliss I can imagine how tired you were after 4 days of minding Kaitlyn(and digging snow!) Tina, the horsedrawn wagons and hot chocolate sound delightful. hope you,Cynthia and Zoe had a great time.
  My youngest son, Simon, wife, and 16 month old Matilda are currently in England on holiday for 3 weeks. There was snow in York and they were delighted.. as snow is not a normal feature here!
  I've had a couple of wonderful theatre outings with friends, a mens chorale performance, and a play called 'Harp on the Willows' Other than that have just been busy with work, my writing etc..
  Off now to have a shower and make myself beautiful LOL! to go out.
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Slow again! -- Phyllis, 17:30:08 03/25/07 Sun
  
  
• Another Nor'Eastern -- Phyllis, 20:48:51 03/17/07 Sat (dial-66-218-13-181.usadatanet.net/66.218.13.181)
  Hi Ellie & Tina,
  
  Last week we have 60 degree weather and it was so nice for several days. It didn't seem possible that we would have such a change in the temperature.
  
  Well late yesterday afternoon it started snowing and it continue all night long and then it turned to freezing rain.
  What a nightmare on the sidewalks. We received a foot of snow. I have been outside twice to shovel the front walk and then tackle the ramp (the ramp is very long). The snow is very wet and heavy. I am hoping that I will be able to get my car out of the driveway as Michael is coming by later this afternoon to plow it.
  
  I am catching up on things today as I had to watch Kaitlyn 4 days last week and I was totally exhausted. The other sitter had a bad case of the flu. My daughter took one day off in the middle of the week to give me a break.
  
  Kaitlyn is very active and on the go most of the day. Thank goodness she takes a nap in the afternoon so I can have some quite time. Rufus also requires my attention and I have to help him back up the steps at my daughter's house. Her yard is fenced in but still difficult when the weather is bad.
  
  I hope every one is doing well.
  
  Tina, you must have had some of this weather too.
  
  Take care and I look forward to both your postings.
  
  Happy St. Patrick's day.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Another Nor'Eastern -- Tina Swinimer, 14:04:14 03/18/07 Sun
  
  
• wow -- Tina swinimer, 14:20:03 03/06/07 Tue (hlfx54-1-88.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.104.88)
  Wow Ellie ! What a wonderful birthday !
  Things have been a bit dull here except Granddaughter Zoes eleventh birthday party which was a noisy blast at her house. Daughter Darlene got through her gall bladder operation just fine,thank heavens.She had gall stones and they finally found the source of her mysterious pains,gall bladder sometimes bothers the back area more than the chest and it fools even the doctors.
  some schools in the province are closed today due to blinding,blowing snow..but so far it hasn't struck in our area.So funny that a few miles away the weather can be so different but ours can change in a matter of minutes so I won't go anyplace except the post office for my mail.That is 2 minutes away by car.
  OH I am anxious for warmer weather so I can go to the lake but that is at least 2 months away. Next week is March break for the school kids so Cynthia and I and Zoe will most likely go to a few places that present special events to amuse the March break folks. Many will be flying to Florida for the week or other warm vacation areas.
  Did your brother have a good week in Florida?
  Phyllis , like me you are most likely ruled by the weather as to what events you can go to, depending on the roads.We had a few days up to zero now the weather forcast is for minus 10 or so for the next few days, I think you had more fierce weather this year than we did here and it is usually the other way around.I got an e-mail from my German vetinary friend who has vacation homes here in our county,one on an island a few miles from here and another on the mainland also a few miles from here or klm, anyway she is still in Germany and said Germany had the warmest winter in 104 years.Quite a record.
  do you ladies remember Dodo who used to post here,do you hear from her?She used to e-mail me or chat via msn but I haven't heard from her in ages, I hope she is fine,she lives in Australia, she is a marvelous photographer and used to send me lovely photos or urls that I could view her photos.I learned a lot about Australia from her.
  Well ladies lets all keep our fingers crossed that we get the weather that we like so that we can sport around in Garden of Eden weather-lol
  

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• Hello.. from the old lady.. -- Ellie., 09:50:06 03/05/07 Mon (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Hi, that's only a joke.. no offence Tina, knowing you are a little older than me! Thanks you again for birthday wishes Tina and Phyliss..and it wasn't only pearls but amethysts as well! A parcel arrived from bro. and sis-in law in Canada, and it was a beautiful silver ring set with an amethyst, and also a silver and amethyst pendant.
  My party afternoon went really well, the weather was cooler, and it was a lovely gathering of family and friends, and I got more nice gifts, so I felt both spoilt and blessed.
  Well, it's now officially Autumn here, and altho it's still warm it signals the end of the savagely hot weather, April is usually beautiful.. but we still very badly need rain.
  Phyliss.. I hope you enjoy all your social outings, and Tina,that you are keeping well.No post from you for a while.
  Soon you will have Spring.. trees blossoming, bird singing.. dancing in the sunshine..
  Have a good week all.
  Ellie.
  

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• I got pearls! -- Ellie, 10:47:27 02/22/07 Thu (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Thanks for your birthday wishes Tina and Phyliss. I'm not talking about 'pearls of wisdom' LOL! This morning my daughter arrived before 9am to take me on a 'mystery tour' she wouldn't say where or what for. We ended up in a jewellers in a big shopping complex, and I was presented with a tray of six different strings of cultured pearls to choose one. My youngest son and d-in-law were also in on this.The one I chose, beautiful creamy pink ones, were the ones thay had liked best too! Next we drove to my grandaughters place, and she told me we had to go shopping.. so went to another plaza and she bought me a bracelet of freshwater pearls linked with silver.
  Then we had lunch, and just after I got home there was a knock on the door and it was a courier with a beautiful big basket of flowers and fruit from my son and d-in-law in Sydney. Whow, I felt so spoiled!
  The only mean thing was that the weather is still hot,humid and sticky.. but it's supposed to be cooler across the weekend.YAY!
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: I got pearls! -- Tina swinimer, 12:48:36 02/22/07 Thu
  • Re: I got pearls! -- Phyllis, 21:09:01 03/04/07 Sun
  
  
• I wish... -- Ellie, 11:50:40 02/20/07 Tue (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Hello Tina and Phyliss.. I wish we had snow storms here! It's been so unbelievably hot it's a wonder you're not getting the unique experience of a grease spot writing to you! Far from wondering about pets in the snow, I worry about keeping the cats cool. The goldfish,Storm has the best of it, I even put ice water in his tank.
  My brother and his wife on their way out of snowy Canada for three weeks in Florida (they have a time share apartment there) so I hope Florida is warm enough for them.
  Not too much to tell here apart from the HEAT, I'm attempting with the help of some volunteers to get our community garden at work going again, but everything is so dry and we have water restrictions, still we've planted cuttings of rosemary, mint and lavender, and some seeds of different things so it's a start.
  On thursday I'm having a big 0 birthday.. Yes, gals I will be 70!!! My daughter has planned a party for me on Saturday afternoon, family and a few friends.. so I'm looking forward to that.
  Hope you are surviving the cold, and looking forward to the joy of Spring!
  Take care,
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: I wish... -- Tina swinimer, 12:26:09 02/20/07 Tue
  • Re: I wish... -- Phyllis, 20:08:18 02/21/07 Wed
  
  
• The Snowstorm -- Phyllis, 21:24:02 02/18/07 Sun (dial-66-218-17-22.usadatanet.net/66.218.17.22)
  Hi Tina and Ellie,
  
  I am sorry Tina that you are dealing with freezing rain and slippery roads. We receive all snow and I am glad that we did not receive the ice storm with it. How do you manage to let your pets outside when it is that bad? I found it very difficult with when my senior dog Rufus as he insists on going for his short walks no matter what the weather is. I have been keeping my ramp as clean as possible using lots of sand and salt on it. It is a steep ramp down to the sidewalk. I also have shoveled out a path down my driveway into the back yard and sanded it as well and usually walk Rufus up and down this path several times.
  
  Winter is much fun isn't it? We never thought about the weather when were young and I can remember walking to school in very deep snow. Oh how times have changed.
  My son-in-law picked me up on the day of the storm. We had a hard time getting Rufus into his car as the seat was higher then in my car but I did not feel comfortable driving anywhere that morning.
  
  I hope it warms up for you and the ice melts so you can get out. I have a supermarket nearby which I can shop at if the weather is bad. I prefer the larger market in good weather.
  
  I made banana bread today to snack on. I am thinking about cooking a batch of chili later today.
  
  Tomorrow is a holiday and my daughter has the day off. We plan to go to the mall to do some shopping and out to lunch at a pizza place. Kaitlyn will be at the sitters for l/2 a day so my daughter and I are taking advantage of an afternoon together.
  
  Ellie,
  
  I hope you are having a good week and good weather. I am sure that you are keeping busy.
  
  Thinking of you both and sending my best.
  
  A belated Happy Valentine's wish too.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: The Snowstorm -- Tina swinimer, 12:13:27 02/20/07 Tue
  
  
• Expecting a Major Snowstorm tomorrow -- Phyllis, 16:34:37 02/13/07 Tue (dial-66-218-19-72.usadatanet.net/66.218.19.72)
  Hi Ellie & Tina,
  
  Today it is very cold outside but sunny. The windchill makes it feel worse. We are expecting a Nor'Easter storm starting after midnight. I expect Tina that you will be experiencing snow also. Ellie, I hope your weather is not too warm for you.
  
  I have to sit for my granddaughter tomorrow which will be difficult due to the weather. It will be a challenge to get Rufus into the car and back home because of around 2 feet of snow. It is expected that 2-3 inches of heavy snow at a time will be coming down and will last 24 hours. I am sure we will have some power outages too. Wish me luck.
  
  We have had very cold weather for many, many days and not a lot of snow up until the upcoming snow tomorrow.
  
  The good news is that my foot is much better. The orthopedic doctor came me a shot of Cortisone and prescribed heat and it has been 2 weeks and does not hurt to walk on it.
  
  We are going out to an Italian restaurant today to celebrate Mary's birthday. There are 3 of us who celebrate each others birthdays. Nancy will be celebrating her birthday in October.
  
  When it is cold like this and snowy, food and good books are always great to pass the time of day. Rufus and I still have to take 4-5 short walks a day. Even with his arthritis medication, he needs help up the stairs. I have a ramp which I also use when it is not too slippery.
  
  Since I keep reading that dark chocolate is good, I have been buying a package with individual squares to enjoy. The only problem is to limit ones self to a few. I also have been cooking stews and pasta dishes which I share with my daughter as I always cook a very large amount and I get tired of eating it too many days in a row. I also like a string bean dish with tomatoes, green peppers, and garlic.
  
  I enjoy reading both of your posting and send my best to you. I will let you know how we do after the storm.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Expecting a Major Snowstorm tomorrow -- Tina swinimer, 14:10:14 02/15/07 Thu
  
  
• posting -- Tina swinimer, 12:45:10 02/12/07 Mon (hlfx32-127.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.82.127)
  Ellie I don't know if you got chance to read my answer to your posting "Australia day" or not..anyway it it still cold here as I suppose it is also bitter cold for you Phyllis.If it ever returns to zero or above zero it will seem balmy to us-lol All winter and we have still not had any one storm of over 5 inches of snow..Phyllis you live a lot further south than I do but I bet you had more snow..mother nature sure is a mixed up lady.I have done so many crossword puzzles,read so much and have been out to a few events, nothing exciting..these little dustings of snow make the roads more slippery than the big snow storms
  where you at least have a big soft snow bank to hit if your car slides so I have had to stay home more than I care to-lol. Phyllis you most likely had lots moresnow than us by what the t.v. weather map shows.Ellie at least the roads are the least of your worries..hope things are more comfortable there now.
  When I came home from church yesterday my oldest son was here visiting so I took him and my hubby to a reasaurant that had a roast beef dinner special on..it was very,very good.Ellie I am glad to hear folks in your area enjoy fish and chips!Oh, and where you brother lives in Canada, they had lots and lots of snow, I guess he told you that.
  Life is good but boring right now all I can talk about is food and weather-lol a little over a monthuntil official spring..I hope spring weather comes when it is expected, I want to get running around with my friends again.Bye for now!
  

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• Australia Day. -- Ellie., 12:28:02 01/30/07 Tue (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Hi. Last Friday 26th of Jan was Australia Day.. and a public holiday. My daughter and son-inlaw had a barbeque at their house to clebrate.It was really nice, family and friends. David.son-in law, barbequed lots of meat, there were salads and nibbles, and my sweet d-in law, youngest son's wife, made delicious strawberry shortcake for dessert, but the best thing was all being together. Isn't that so? Your family and your friends are the dearest things in the world.
  Weather is now cooler, but unfortunately to get hot again next week.Oh, dear.. still Feb is our last month of summer, and altho March can be pretty warm, at least you know the end is in sight( of the devastatingly hot weather I mean!)
  Phyliss..Happy Belated Birthday.. sorry that you are having immobility problems.
  My writing groups are about to start again.YAY! I miss them all a lot during the 2 month break.
  Also I start back at work again tomorrow.. not sure what my job description will be whether I'll still be the community garden supervisor, or whether my Boss will drum something else for me!
  The cats.. well, when it's so very hot, the ginger boy Feller, spends all day outside, I think he finds a shady bush somewhere and sleeps the day away.. the grey girl,Grania, stays in and sprawls in front of the fan. One day I didn't have it on, because it was only warm rather than HOT.. and she kept looking pointedly at it, then at me, as if to say 'OkaaaaY! Where's the cool air!"
  She has very thick fur, so the heat is a trial for her.
  Have a good week.
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Australia Day. -- tina swinimer, 13:58:40 01/30/07 Tue
  
  
• Fish and Chips -- Ellie., 12:33:25 01/30/07 Tue (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Oops, Tina, forgot to mention the fish and chips! yes, very popular here. There is actually a fish and chip shop right on the corner of my street! You can also get them at most cafe's/restaurants.. they're kind of a perennial favorite, in spite of all the elegant cuisine on offer these days.
  Ellie.
  

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• Mainly Phyllis and Ellie -- tina swinimer, 14:12:36 01/28/07 Sun (hlfx27-142177077024.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.77.24)
  Phyllis I thought about you these past 2 days while out outside temperature was minus 26 with wind chills, that wouldn't help your aches and pains any but I do hope you are feeling better. Just the thoughts of the heat at Ellies helped keep me warm here.I did wear my warmest clothes and although I didn't have to go out or didn't need anything I went to a flea market in the closest town just 5 minute drive away.Books in the stores are so expensive so I buy them at flea markets and yesterday I was lucky to find some good books at great prices so now I have some reading material to last me for a while.My mother used to say that I was born with a book in my hand.
  To make my visit more exciting I met a co-worker that I hadn't seen for thirty years..she knew me but it took a few minutes for me to register who she was.We had a good ole chat. They have a canteen at that flea market so we had coffee and a cheeseburger.
  When I came home I didn't have to cook supper because we had lots of left-overs to use up so that just meant heating them so I had a good afternoon and evening of reading.
  It is not quite 7 am now but I noticed when I took the dog out that it is not near as cold today as it was the last 2 days so by time to go to church it should be quite nice.I haven't taken my bath yet or decided what I will wear today but I am sure I will be picking out something nice and warm. Hopefully this afternoon I will be able to convince hubby to go to a good fish and chip eatery..I am hungry for fish and chips and there is a wonderful place just 20 minutes drive from here.Oh I know the french fries or as we call them chips are not good for you but these people make the home fries so good and give such big helpings of fish.Oh my goodness I am making myself even hungrier-lol
  Ellie I do hope thing have cooled down in your area ..what do the cats make of it? Are fish and chips a popular item on the menu at restaurants there? Clams and chips and scallops and chips are just about as popular here as fish and chips. Phyllis when I was visiting in Plymouth down by where the pilgrims landed and near the wonderful wax museum there, just a block from there by the seaside was a wonderful little sidewalk cafe that served such good tasting fish and chips.Actually when we were on the Prince of Fundy sailing over we heard someone mention the place and while we were in the area decided to try the food..we were not disappointed.
  Oh my I must get my mind off food and get busy with my day,
  hoping you ladies and anyone else reading this has a wonderful day.
  

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• Hi Ellie & Tina -- Phyllis, 20:39:21 01/22/07 Mon (dial-69-67-230-10.usadatanet.net/69.67.230.10)
  Hi Gals,
  
  I enjoyed reading both your posting. I have not written lately because I am "falling apart" so to speak. I have had a problem with foot pain and it continues to hurt to walk on it. I have no choice as I must walk my dog and also sit for Kaitlyn during the week. So I take Motrin and hobble along. I have an appointment this week for a second opinion with an orthopedic doctor. I also continue to have tendinitis of both hands and am wearing wrist braces during the day.
  
  On a more lighter note, I just celebrated my birthday (Jan.16th) with my friends, Nancy and Mary. We went to a restaurant of my choice and had broiled haddock, sweet potato french fries, salad and blueberry cheese cake for dessert. I received many cards and gifts including 2 dozen of the most beautiful roses from my son in Florida. The colors are absolutely gorgeous (pink, red, yellow,some two-toned colors and a sweet fragrance),
  
  Yes, Tina, we did get the terrible ice storm and cold, freezing weather with strong winds. I believe we are in the same weather pattern too.
  
  Ellie, I do not know how you can cope with the extreme hot temperatures. I am glad that it is cooling off for you.
  
  I look forward to reading about all the activities you both are involved in. I am sure that once I straighten out my
  minor problems that I will increase my outside activites in addition to my regular routine.
  
  I hope you both have a good weather and better weather.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Hi Ellie & Tina -- tina swinimer, 12:37:43 01/23/07 Tue
  
  
• To Elie -- tina swinimer, 23:44:52 01/21/07 Sun (hlfx48-142177098137.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.98.137)
  So very glad to hear from you Ellie, extra glad to hear everything is all right,well even if it is hot but I must say that if it ever gets that hot here I hope I can cope as well as you.Happy to hear you had an outing with the girls.Yesterday our ladies church group had a breakfast for the men,we do that twice a year,I spent all morning making the toast,came home,had a nap,then went to the fire dept supper of baked beans,scalloped potatoes and ham and lemon pie.Their supper was a fund raiser for the upkeep of their equipment.Today I was to church and after church,even though it is a bitter cold minus eleven with winds making it seem colder, I went to the next town to a flea market. I bought a nice lambs wool piece for my dogs bed..oh she loves it.Then I went to visit my son Kerry who has multiple sclerosis and finally this year has resorted to using an electric wheelchair.He and his twin will be 49 on Tuesday.I took him a card and gift.Thank God he has a wonderful wife who looks after him so good.They still remind me of 2 kids in love.They have no children..his twin has a boy 28 and girl 20.
  My husband is making our supper tonight, he likes to cook about twice a week-I am glad of that! He usually spends all his time watching television.He is not a runabout like I am, I like visiting, volunteering,crossword puzzles and reading.I havent painted for a long time because I like painting on location and he does not want me away that long.Anyway I did have years of painting so I must not complain. I was used to working outside the home after the children got in their teens so the urge to go out is still with me!
  Hoping for cooler weather for you..all the best!
  

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• I'm sorry.. -- Ellie., 14:23:11 01/21/07 Sun (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  No Tina.. you are not the last woman standing LOL! I haven't been writing because it has been unbearably hot here for weeks.. 36 c got to 40 c one day, the bushfires in the north of the state burnt through power supply lines, and the power went off in 100's of 1000's of houses etc around the state. Here it was off for 4 hours.. you can guess what that was like with that scorching heat, and no method of cooling. I don't live anywhere near where I can swim. Anyway, the GREAT news is that in the last few days we've had some good amounts of rain which has helped to douse some of the fires, and the weather is now cooler.
  Summer has a long way to go before it is officially over though.
  So I haven't had a lot of social activity.. everyone is just flattened when it gets that hot. I did have lunch out with my 3 gals (daughter, granddaughter, and little great grandaughter) last week. The cafe was airconditioned! Other than that I've just been scuttling out for groceries and to go to the library then scuttling home again to beat the worst of the heat.
  Ellie.
  

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• just me posting? -- tina swinimer, 14:10:09 01/18/07 Thu (hlfx42-142176092174.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.92.174)
  this is my third post with no replies so I hope everyone is ok.
  Phyllis I hope you were not without electric power from the latest storm. Your area really had a dilly of an ice storm didn't it? An ice storm is so scary for those onthe roads especially.
  Tomorrow we are supposed to start with snow and then turn to 10 mm rain.I hope there are not any accidents in the turnover from snow to rain..that is the most dangerous time, drive safely , I know you will .
  

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• heat -- tina swinimer, 15:30:50 01/16/07 Tue (hlfx21-45.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.71.45)
  Ooooh Ellie..I just heard on the radio that in Melburne Australia it is 36 celc. My goodness it must be about that hot at your place and you must feel like you are melting.
  If I wasn't near the ocean where it was safe to swim or by a lake I would be sitting all day in a tub of water, perhaps even with ice cubes in it-lol
  Really I don't think I would survive in that much heat.
  we are in the minus weather as of yesterday, it was like spring all along breaking all records for the warmest winter so far.Tomorrow it is supposed to be minus 17 but like minus 27 with wind chill.All schools are closed today,we had only about 6 inches of snow but it was an icy snow and driving it the pits! Four people in a 50 klm radius of us were killed in accidents and about 7 in the hospital from injuries.
  I have my deep freezer well stocked with food as is my fridge so I don't have to travel when the roads are bad.I do hope the winds tomorrow are not bad enough to knock out the electric power.
  Lots of birds to my bird feeders this morning.Phyllis is most likely having the same weather as we are, we are hundreds of miles apart but in the same weather path most times.
  All the best..keep cool somehow!
  

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• busy bees -- tina swinimer, 14:30:48 01/12/07 Fri (hlfx42-142176092182.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.92.182)
  My we are busy bees but I decided to do a bit of buzzing here. First it was Christmas shopping,wrapping,baking,decorating,then Christmas parties,visiting,being visited, enjoying Christmas dinner, christmas concerts,new years party,then un-decorating the house hoping no one came to visit while you had everything in disarray.Whew! busy busy but what fun!Since I did not expect to be alive for this Christmas I guess I enjoyed it extra much.Plus I have been feeling fine.
  We still have no snow..oh an inch every once in a while but our ski slopes, snowmobile companies, snow plow operators etc. are having a horrible winter and now scientists are saying this may get to be the norm because of global warming but if it is global warming how come the furthest west of Canada where my old school pal lives used to have the kind of weather we are now having but this year she is having a ton of snow and lots of freezing weather.It is like we did a complete reversal.I hate to admit it but I am enjoying this change very much.Good roads for driving is the main reason for my greed!
  Now that I have enjoyed all the good Christmas eating,actually I over indulged for 2 weeks but am happy to report I did not gain any weight.Perhaps this is because I got lots of exercise cleaning,decorating etc.lol
  I do hope you and your families have had as good and enjoyable season as we did. My older granddaughters have I think made life more enjoyable for others because they have "adopted" children in need in other countries by sending money every month.I am so proud of them for doing so. I give to our church group that sends to the needy because I don't want to make personal committment to a child or family because at 71 I will not live long enough to fulfill a committment but can help through the group that sends to foreign aid. We also have a money path to help those in need in our area through the church and local food banks. If every little club had a food basket and if all a person could afford to donate was a can of beans, well 12 members,12 cans of beans, a drop of rain after drop of rain eventually fills a bucket.
  Oh well here I am talking like a mother, worring about empty bellies, forgive..once a Mommy always a mommy-lol
  All the best!
  

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• Happy New Year from Australia. -- Ellie., 08:53:08 01/01/07 Mon (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Hello all, Jan 1 here today, and wishing you all a wonderful 007 of health and happiness, and maybe a little wealth too! Xmas was wonderful, owing to my Sydney family being with us this year, my son, d-in law, and their 2 little boys,Alexander, 2, and Benjamin 6 months. They were here for 5 days and apart from the Xmas celebrations we did other things together too, the Museum and the zoo, which of course was a big hit with Alexander.
  The amazing thing was (remembering it is SUMMER here) we had snow on Xmas day! It was one of those miraculous unprecedented events.An Arctic snap came in, and behold a white Xmas.Something that may never be repeated.
  Now it's back to warm and windy again.
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Happy New Year from Australia. -- tina swinimer, 15:12:04 01/01/07 Mon
  • Re: Happy New Year from Australia. -- Phyllis, 02:47:07 01/08/07 Mon
  
  
• HAPPY NEW YEAR! -- Phyllis, 16:52:47 12/31/06 Sun (dial-66-218-17-243.usadatanet.net/66.218.17.243)
  Hi Tina, Ellie and any other readers,
  
  Thanks Tina for your New Year's message. It was such a lovely one.
  
  Sending everyone best wishes for a happy, healthy, peaceful and good fortune for the year of 2007.
  
  I am wearing 2 wrist splints as I have tendinitis and also a sinus infection. I think I got worn out from the holidays.
  However, I am feeling much better today.
  
  We had a wonderful Christmas day with my family here in the area. Kaitlyn was happy opening her gifts and visiting with her aunts and uncles. She enjoyed my spinach pie.
  
  I have had this week off from watching Kaitlyn as her mother took the week off. Starting the first of the year, my daughter has to work until 4:30 which means she will not be home until 5:00 in the evening. A new company has taken over and are making changing for all employees. She has been working for the original company for 17 years.
  
  We had our first snowstorm yesterday. Only a few inches of snow but it cause a lot of accidents.
  
  Best wishes to all your families for the New Year too.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: HAPPY NEW YEAR! -- tina swinimer, 15:15:20 01/01/07 Mon
  
  
• HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL -- tina swinimer, 13:01:58 12/29/06 Fri (hlfx42-142176092190.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.92.190)
  With the Christmas visits and visitors slowing down I wanted to concentrate on wishing you a Happy New Year
  with many wonderful events for you this year,Ellie and Phyllis I do hope the new year exceeds your fondest wishes.
  Christmas, especially Christmas eve when all the family came here was wonderful.Perhaps is was so much more meaningful for me because last spring I was given no hope to live to see this Christmas.
  I am feeling fine.Sure hope that lasts for a while.
  We had no snow for Christmas but that was wonderful in its own way because it was great for driving.
  Once again...all the best for 2007
  

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• Christmas Greetings! -- Phyllis, 01:25:14 12/24/06 Sun (dial-66-218-23-78.usadatanet.net/66.218.23.78)
  Merry Christmas to Ellie, Tina, and any others who read this site.
  
  We have been very fortunate as far as weather for traveling here is the northeast. I am sure that snow will be coming soon enough.
  
  Happy Holidays to All.
  Phyllis
  

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• No, I'm not drunk! -- Ellie, 00:53:32 12/24/06 Sun (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  But you would think so the way I spelt Xmas in my previous message! Not a glass of eggnog (has yet) passed my lips!
  Ellie.
  

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• Xmas Eve here. -- Ellie, 00:50:50 12/24/06 Sun (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Well, the morning of Xams eve that is.. seeing we in the southern hemisphere race ahead in time of you in the north.
  Happy Xmas,Tina and Phyliss, and anyone else who may be reading.. love and thoughts to you all and your families, friends and pets.
  Ellie.
  

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• Merry Christmas -- tina swinimer, 15:06:49 12/19/06 Tue (hlfx44-32.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.94.32)
  Happy Holidays, merry Christmas, Happy days off from work or whatever pertains.
  Best wishes to you all !!
  

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• Miracles do Happen! -- Ellie., 22:55:48 12/15/06 Fri (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Tina that is wonderful news, compounded by news I got from my brother in Canada yesterday.. you may remember he too had cancer, throat/neck/ chemo. then surgery. He went for a check yesterday, is still completely clear, and not doesnt have to go back for 4 months.
  The weather is -for the present.cooler, but there has been little rain, so the bushfires are still burning up country and several homes and livestock have gone. The cooler weather helps with containment though.
  Will write some more later..
  Ellie.
  

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• wonders never cease -- Tina Swinimer, 14:59:45 12/13/06 Wed (hlfx26-187.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.76.187)
  My latest scan shows all signs of the cancer I had this spring and summer are gone.
  for now all seems right but with the type I have had is known for repeat appearances but I will worry about that when the time comes..for now I will enjoy.
  Ellie I pray you get rain to quell the fires and some cool breezes to soothe . I bet the cats like the heat..I always was amazed when I was at the animal shelter that on the hottest days the cats still relished in lying in the direct
  sunlight. In our summer I find that taking a face cloth dipped in cool water that has a few drops of lemon juice in and gently caressing the skin with it helps a lot.
  Phyllis, I bet you are extra busy getting ready for all the season entails.I have so much done ahead because I thought the cancer was still growing because I had twinges in my right side but the scan shows no cancer.I do have to have a barium exray after Christmas to see if we can find why the annoying twinges, they don't come every day so it may be just after effects of all the chemo I did have or something.
  Anyway, enough about me, all the best to you folks!
  

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• winterwonderland -- Tina Swinimer, 13:41:11 12/09/06 Sat (hlfx54-1-130.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.104.130)
  I woke up early as usual, before I retired I thought how nice it would be to sleep later in the morning, my inner clock still wakes me at 5 or 5:30 every morning.
  Upon looking out the window I could not resist putting a winter jacket over my big fuzzy bathrobe and going outside.
  Everything is lit by bright moonlight and the snow that is laden on every tree branch looks like a fairy was doing some lavish painting. The shadows on the fallen snow in the yard cast beautiful patterns on the white glistening areas . It is all so breathtakingly beautiful.
  Sometimes I dream of summer all year long but at times like this morning I am glad dreams do not always come true.
  Tomorrow is "open house" at the animal shelter . Everyone is invited to visit and bring a treat for the cats and dogs.I will go there after church. I am also invited to an open house party for new members of the community so it will be a busy day. I have no plans for today except to relax after daily chores are done.I want to do some reading
  but aside from that no plans made.
  I do have to make myself rest..I have been washing down all the walls,ceilings..cleaned out all closets,got all my Christmas shopping done and wrapped,tree decorated and all Christmas trimmings put up and floors washed and waxed and the ones carpeted are shampooed.
  I am feeling good but when one knows the cancer can return so quickly or at least the type I have, so I wanted everything done in case something would happen that I would have to be in the hospital. Cancer has so many different ways of striking ...an aquaintance died a few weeks ago just 3 weeks after being diagnosed, another is dying,one that was diagnosed with the same type I have died Sept. 10, those are reasons for people to make the best of every day, do a fun thing,a good thing, but enjoy.
  

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  • Re: winterwonderland -- Ellie, 14:18:41 12/10/06 Sun
  
  
• instant winter -- tina swinimer, 15:56:35 12/05/06 Tue (hlfx62-1-135.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.112.135)
  Aha..beautiful warm weather, instantly turned to winter weather yesterday, started as rain, then cold air blew in and big snow flakes started and kept coming, coming, until 20 centim.Lots of car accidents because it was a packy/slippery snow..but oh how beautiful it looks this morning.If I had a digital camera and printer I could certainly make beautiful Christmas cards, but on secon thought I would be spenting too much on printer in-lol
  Phyllis did you folks get the snow as well? I know Ellie didn't lol..she is in a glory of spring and our bitter cold will soon be upon us. Hope you ladies are having a great time at whatever you are doing.
  

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• Belated Happy Thanksgiving.. -- Ellie., 09:56:17 11/25/06 Sat (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  We don't celebrate Thanksgiving in Australia.. not that we are an ungrateful lot! It's just not an Australian custom, (like Halloween) but I hope those that did had a lovely time.
  Xmas is creepinh up. Nearly finished my shopping! We give gifts to the babies, but the adult family Kris kringle.. so much easier and less expensive for everyone.
  Lunched on in a lovely cafe/bookdhop called 'Volumes' yesterday with my longest time friend,(since I was 16 and she 18_ Plus, my daughter, daughter in law, grandaughter, and the 2 darling girl babies..Jemillah 15 months, Matilda ten months/Had a lovely 'all girl' time together.. and a nice lunch as well!
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Belated Happy Thanksgiving.. -- tina, 13:32:48 11/25/06 Sat
  
  
• Happy Thanksgiving -- tina swinimer, 13:16:23 11/23/06 Thu (hlfx47-193.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.97.193)
  Hi! Phyllis..have a great thanksgiving day and lots of goodies !
  

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• Margaret & Bill -- tina, 13:54:08 11/15/06 Wed (hlfx51-2b-158.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.6.158)
  For those who know Margaret who used to be on here a lot,in fact it was through her this site was built,
  I got an e-mail this morning, Bill has passed away.
  He is free from his pain at last, prayers for Margaret to adjust to this great change in her life.
  

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  • Re: Margaret & Bill -- Ellie, 09:42:47 11/17/06 Fri
  • Re: Margaret & Bill -- Phyllis, 20:46:30 11/19/06 Sun
  
  
• no news -- tina swinimer, 13:27:15 11/13/06 Mon (hlfx21-76.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.71.76)
  Just as I said..no news but wanted to say Hi! The weather has been great..warmest Momorial day ever that I can remember.Usually it snows or is freezing cold.Seemed odd to see everyone down at the Monument in light jackets or no jackets.
  My youngest granddaughter Zoe "10" put 2 crosses at the monument in honor of her dads father and in honor of my father so it was one for a grandfather and one for a great grandfather.
  As my Christmas presant for this year Cynthia and Bobby are ro-doing my kitchen, not a complete major overhall but quite a bit of work and painting.They have started already,should be finished by next week, have to do it after their job hours.
  Just have some gift certificates to pick up yet and then all my Christmas shopping will be done.Doing the early shopping so I won't have to travel in snow and just in case the cancer acts up again before Christmas.
  Hope you have a very good week and good weather.
  

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• Kangaroos. -- Ellie, 01:33:27 11/05/06 Sun (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Yes, you are right Tina. Kangaroos are culled for meat, both for the dinner table and as pets meat. I wish it didn't have to be, but like your deer they get too profuse, and come closer in to suburbia.
  My son Peter, who lives in a hills are called Kinglake out of melbourne was driving to work one day, very windy, twisty road, and a big kangaroo jumped out of the bush right in front of his utility truck. He couldn't do anything
  he slammed right into it. Fortunately Peter wasn't hurt, just bruised and shaken, but it killed the kangaroo, and did quite a lot of $ worth of damage to his vehicle.
  Ellie.
  

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• Possums. -- Ellie., 15:20:27 11/03/06 Fri (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  We don't have squirrels in Aust.but we do have possums. They too get into roofs, and make a mess.. to put in politely they urinate in there as well as running around making a noise. They are a protected species here, so you are not permitted to kill them.
  Fortunately where I live they don't get in the roof, but I've heard them in the fruit trees in the yard next door.
  They make a really scary noise! If you don't already know it's a possum making that noise it can give you a fright!
  I sometimes think how the first settlers in Australia must have been scared witless by all the peculiar animal noises.
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Possums. -- tina swinimer, 13:35:58 11/04/06 Sat
  
  
• squirrels -- tina swinimer, 11:53:44 11/03/06 Fri (hlfx56-2a-174.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.106.174)
  oh the little pests..we had one that bit the 220 wireing to
  my clothes drier,result: one dead squirrel and $100. electric repair bill, we were very fortunate that it did not result in a fire, that was about 5 years ago.
  Phyllis I can understand your distress with them.I bought a wild trap and as I get one I transport it to a woodland, the dept of lands and forests said that you have to transport them at least 9 miles away so as you are not retired you would not have the time to do this one by one and it gets expensive on the gas, plus you may not live that near a forrested area.I hate to say this but in the middle of winter I have had to resort to using a mouse trap
  if one has knawed its way inside.They like to make the holes larger around water pipes so that they can get in.
  One spot we found by a water pipe we mixed cement and steel wool..would you believe their sharp little teeth gnawed right through it over a period of time.
  We have the little red squirrels not the big gray squirrels they have in the upper provinces, which do you have?
  We tried the moth ball bit and that didn't work plus it is dangerous for poisoning pets so we only put them in the attic."the moth balls in the attic" I mean.
  We also have some pesky chipmunks, they too are so cute but a real hazard for electric wires but very rare that they try to enter the house. Up at the lake they are bad for getting in cottages or trailers.I put dawny laundry sheets in the closets of the lake trailer over winter, they are not fond of the perfumed aroma.
  Well good luck getting rid of them but I hate to tell you they are an on going intruder, you may have to resort to mouse traps rather than have a fire from chewed wires.
  

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• P P P day -- Tina Swinimer, 13:17:10 10/28/06 Sat (hlfx59-1-100.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.109.100)
  A bunch of us are going to the yearly "well womens clinic" today, it is held once a year at a local hospital, lots of volunteer doctors and nurses to check blood,blood pressure, pap smears etc. We call it our pepsi,pizza and pap day because our group always goes to a pizza parlour together after the clinic.
  It takes 3 to 4 hours to have all the tests but they have lots of usefull info booklets on health and healthful eating they give out, you can even get free foot and hand massage.
  Do they have these clinics in your areas? If they do, get friends to go with you and make it a fun day.
  Hope you are having a great week Phyllis and Ellie!!
  

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  • Re: P P P day -- Ellie., 12:13:29 10/30/06 Mon
  • Re: P P P day -- Phyllis, 21:28:49 11/02/06 Thu
  
  
• Halloween. -- Ellie., 14:32:18 11/01/06 Wed (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Well, Halloween is not something that in celebrated in Australia.Not sure why, but it's one thing that hasn't been picked up, so no kids (or ghosts) came to my door. Just as well really as all I had in the house candy wise was one packet of jellybeans!
  My brother in Kingston,Canada said they got about 70 kids, including his own grandaughter, who was dressed up as a vampire.
  We don't have Thanksgiving either and that always sounds like a lovely celebration to me. What we used to have in the Churches when I was a child was 'Harvest Festival' that was in March.. our first month of Autumn. It was so beautiful with trestle tables laden with all sorts of fruit and vegetables, and big loaves of fresh baked bread, and baskets of eggs.
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Halloween. -- Phyllis, 21:24:35 11/02/06 Thu
  
  
• Hey Gals. -- Ellie., 12:26:42 10/30/06 Mon (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  So Had a very good writing weekend up at Wangaratta, a drive of about 3 hours north up country.My daughter Pam came this time, so she drove me and we took a friend Rebecca, Rebecca has been blind since she was 3 years old, but manages beautifully taking work shop notes on her little braille machine.
  I did three interesting/very good workshops.. stayed 2 nights in a country hotel.. fun.. and we all had dinner together on the Saturday night with a literary trivia quiz after dinner and I won a prize.. a packet of fruit jubes!
  Then yesterday was our own local Northern Notes writing festival, so I was helping out with in the afternoon, and that was very good too.. lots of interesting writer/speakers..
  Next week is my grandsons Alexanders 2nd birthday, and the week after his brother Benjamin, 4 months, is being christened, so today I posted up gifts for the 2 little boys. I won't be there to celebrate with them seeing they live 700 miles away, but am really looking forward to seeing them when they come down at Xmas (and girls isn't Xmas getting close!)
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Hey Gals. -- tina swinimer, 14:05:40 11/01/06 Wed
  
  
• birthday -- Tina Swinimer, 15:25:30 10/24/06 Tue (hlfx64-2a-222.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.114.222)
  
  
  
  
  
  Wow, I made it ! 71 yrs old today, against all odds,I made it! Thanks to friends prayers and chemo, I thank God for today !!!
  My family had a lovely party for me on Sunday because most of them are working today.So nice to get together with family and friends and celebrate what we thought was never to be.
  whatever comes up in your life, don't ever give up, keep looking for that silver cloud and the dark ones will drift away.
  

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  • Re: birthday -- Phyllis, 20:00:12 10/26/06 Thu
  • Re: birthday -- Ellie.., 12:11:10 10/30/06 Mon
  
  
• A Quick Hello.. -- Ellie., 16:44:08 10/18/06 Wed (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Quick because it's late at night and I'm tired.LOL! Lovely to read your news, Phyliss re Caitlin's christening,Tina.. out doing your usual lovely things..Sorry the last lot of chemo made you feel so bad.
  I've been back and forward to hospital outpatients for tests, nothing drastic, just usual procedure as I have to have cataract surgery on my right eye.
  Also I'm back at work (the same place that I left at the end of Feb after 8 years) Boss rang and asked me if I would consider coming back, just one day one week, and two days the next, so... what I'm working as now is a garden supervisor on a community garden program. With some volunteers I've' been planting tomatoes, corn, radishes,
  carrots, lettuce etc, also lots of different herbs.
  This weekend I'm heading away to a weekend writing conference in the country. We stay at a hotel for 2 nights, and go to the writing workshops Saturday and Sunday. It's really nice to get together with a bunch of other writers, and nice to 'holiday' in a hotel even just for 2 days.
  More about that later I guess..!
  Take care everyone.
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: A Quick Hello.. -- Tina Swinimer, 12:52:48 10/21/06 Sat
  • Re: A Quick Hello.. -- Phyllis, 17:03:35 10/23/06 Mon
  
  
• Very Busy Week -- Phyllis, 00:17:54 09/26/06 Tue (dial-66-218-17-19.usadatanet.net/66.218.17.19)
  Hi Ellie & Tina,
  
  I have been extra busy as one of my sons arrived last week from Colorado to attend Kaitlyn's baptism. My daughter chose her twin brother with the honor of becoming Kaitlyn's Godfather. Baptism is a very special event in the orthodox faith.
  
  We had a beautiful day and a lovely ceremony. We shared this special day with family and Kaitlyn's child care provider and her husband. They are very close to Kaitlyn and they adore her.
  
  The ceremony began at 3:00 and lasted until 4:15. We took lots of pictures. My oldest son and family were unable to attend. I am sure he will enjoy the pictures. We had a total of 17 attending. Some of our family members could not attend.
  
  Kaitlyn's christening gown was matte white satin with intricate hand-beaded lace on bodice, bonnet and skirt It tied in the back with a large satin sash. Their were 3 candles decorated with flowers and ribbons also used during the ceremony.
  
  After the service we went to a restaurant call "The Cat N' Fiddle for a meal. The 3 choices were Broiled Haddock, Chicken Cordon Bleu, or Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast. The meals included fruit cup, tossed salad, potato, vegetable and vanilla ice cream with strawberries. My daughter also brought a vanilla cake decorated with pink flowers with the words: "God Bless Kaitlyn"
  
  It was wonderful to share this special time with our love ones. Kaitlyn did very well and once at the reception, my daughter changed her into a pink and white dress and let her walk around the room which we had reserved for our event.
  
  Ellie,
  
  Thank you for the recipe, I will let you know how it turns out once I try it. I am sorry that the other ones did not go through. Please do not rush as I appreciate your sending them to me at your convenience.
  
  I hope your weather improves. I do enjoy fall and the beautiful foliage.
  
  I am not looking forward to our New England winter weather at all. My dog has arthritis and has trouble going up stairs. I have a ramp but can only use it until the snow falls as the snow from the roof creats ice in the winter and it is impossible to keep it clean. He also has trouble getting into the car on the days I have to take care of Kaitlyn. I bought a article that helps one lift the dog up. It has handles attached to it.
  
  Tina,
  
  I am glad that you are having the same warm weather we have.
  How nice of you to help out at the nursing home.
  I am keeping you in my prayers.
  
  Thanks to both of you for your postings. I look forward to reading them.
  
  Have a good week.
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Very Busy Week -- Tina Swinimer, 13:01:33 10/21/06 Sat
  
  
• Hello ladies ! -- Tina Swinimer, 15:04:15 10/13/06 Fri (hlfx42-142176092149.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.92.149)
  Almost the middle of October and we are still having summer like weather, Sunday we were to Daughter Cynthias for a beautiful thanksgiving dinner, the weather was so beautiful we spent most of the day out in the sun catching up on conversations,news etc. Monday we were to number 4 son, Darrells for thanksgiving dinner, Bonnie his wife did a real wonderful job of having a great formal dinner and wonderful food.
  I did some church visitations this week,2 ninety some year old ladies that are as bright mentally as if they were 30, up on all the latest events etc,it was a joy to visit them,each lives in Bridgewater but not at the same address.
  Tuesday coming I will be going to the nursing home to help with the birthday party,once a month they have a party for each one whose birthday is within that month.Some need to be fed their ice cream and cake.Volunteer musicians come and play favorite songs etc.
  The last chemo ,last week had a horrible effect on me but I am back to rights since last Saturday.No no chemo for 3 months , it will take that long to see if all spots are going to be diminished by the last chemos or if and when things will flare up again so here I am like a sitting duck hoping the Bullets will miss-lol
  Wishing you all the best-bye for now, Tina
  

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• A very windy weekend.. -- Ellie,, 03:47:48 09/25/06 Mon (c211-28-213-182.thoms1.vic.optusnet.com.au/211.28.213.182)
  Hi Tina.. Well, I haven't got around to putting in anymore recipes for Phyliss yet, but seems as tho she hasn't caught up on the first one anyway, I know she is busy caring for Caitlin.
  Lovely for you (and the patients) at the nursing home Tina.. a lot of my working life has been nursing in homes for the elderly, and I've also worked in a volunteer capacity in nursing homes too.
  There have been lots of sad, and lots of funny incidents.
  When I was working night duty at one place an old lady of 92 got fixated on me. She called me 'MaryAnn' for some reason. When ever I was on nights off she gave the other staff merry hell screaming that she only wanted 'MaryAnn' they were always SO relieved when I came back on duty.
  Another old guy fell in love with me, and wanted me to marry him! I was already married with 2 little children, which I told him, but he insisted.. wanted to show me how much he had in the bank..(a lot) etc, etc..Oh, dear. I finally convinced him that I couldnt marry him, but I would consider him a good friend. When I left that job he gave me a HUGE box of chocolates, perfume, etc.
  Well, kind of ran away with myself there! Nothing to do with the heading, which was about our weekend of battering gale force winds.. a lot calmer weather today!
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: A very windy weekend.. -- tina swinimer, 14:07:51 09/25/06 Mon
  
  
• Oh Nooooo! -- Ellie, 10:45:20 09/16/06 Sat (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  Phyliss I spent some time this afternoon putting in recipes for you, and it looks as though they didn't go through!
  Will try with one now and see if it goes.
  Rissoles and salad.
  (Salad of your choice, lettuce, tomato, or whatever else you like to use in a salad)
  Rissoles.
  175 grams lean beef mince.
  1/2 small onion
  100 grams red kidney beans (canned)
  1 tablespoon rolled oats
  1/4 teaspoon curry powder
  2 teaspooons soy sauce.
  2 teaspoons of chilli or tomato sauce
  1 egg.
  1/2 teaspoon dried herbs.
  One tablespoon of oil or oil spray to cook rissoles.
  
  Drain, rinse and mash the kidney beans till they become a paste, they are a lot easier to mash if you add a tablesppon of water.
  Oops, forgot to add one small carrot in the list.Okay. grate that carrot.
  Now, combine all ingredients in a large bowl.Mix well.Shape into small patties. The rissoles hold their shape better if you have time to chill them in the fridge for an hour or so before cooking.
  Heat oil in frypan and cook rissoles, turning once till they are cooked through. Before serving top with cheese and allow to melt.
  Serve with salad and a bread roll.
  Also forgot to say finely dice onion before adding. and of course leave out seasonings you don't like or that don't agree with you.
  

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  • Re: Oh Nooooo! -- tina swinimer, 14:00:52 09/24/06 Sun
  
  
• sunshine,food and boating -- tina swinimer, 13:12:20 09/10/06 Sun (hlfx47-16.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.97.16)
  Was invited to a friends lake cottage yesterday for the day.Didn't know if I would be able to go because had my big chemo dose on Friday, but I did feel great yesterday and the weather was absolute perfection. My friend and I went boating,besides boating all around the islands and coves we landed the boat on a little island with a very sandy beach and we spent time there just watching other boats, seadoos, etc. Her hubby was home cooking and when we got home to her cottage he had a splendid meal waiting.
  Later we went outside to watch the beautiful sunset,later still made a fire in the outside fireplace,I didn't come home until 10 p.m. My husband who I always say is glued to the t.v.had stayed home to "yes,watch t.v." If he would only realize life is speeding by and he is missing all the joys of it.
  cynthia my youngest daughter,Kevin one of my twin sons and Michael my oldest son took their motorbikes on a toy run yesterday along with 200 others, they Stop in one town and people give toys then on to another town and at the third town they are met by a member of the childrens aide society and all the toys are given to these aide people to distribute to children at christmas that would otherwise have no Christmas toys.Each motorbike driver also donates a toy.Yesterday was perfect weather for it.
  bye for now ladies..have a great week.
  

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  • Re: sunshine,food and boating -- Phyllis, 19:38:54 09/10/06 Sun
  
  
• Hello, Hello. -- Ellie., 03:35:14 09/03/06 Sun (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  Hi.. Tina I hope you are now safely back from your trip and had a wonderful time acting like a teenager!! Love to hear about it. Phyliss, you will notice I haven't yet copied out any recipes for you.. sorry.. I will look through the book and see what I think you might like, or maybe you can give me some clues?
  The ones listed are..
  Honey chicken stir fry
  Pizza muffins..
  Rissoles and salad,
  Pumpkin and potato soup
  Quiche
  Spaghetti bolognaise
  Baked fish and vegetable casserole
  Mini roast beef or lamb)
  Vegetable fritters.
  You might already know how to make all these of course, and I've left out the desserts, as you said you didn't want those!
  Yesterday I went to a first birthday party for great grandaughter,Jemillah.. it was a family barbeque.. and very nice. She got lots of lovely gifts, and is such a happy outgoing little girl. Dark hair, and big brown eyes.
  Have a good week all..
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Hello, Hello. -- Phyllis, 19:25:05 09/10/06 Sun
  • I tried to do a spelling check & it did not let me- corrected verson -- Phyllis, 19:27:39 09/10/06 Sun
  
  
• trip -- tina swinimer, 14:34:22 09/06/06 Wed (hlfx29-181.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.79.181)
  Ellie and Phyllis I enjoy your posts very much.
  Cynthia and I and Zoe had such a wonderful time on our trip,the weather was perfect the whole week,the fun surpassed even what I had hoped.
  Spent 2 nights in an indian tepee,a fun new experience,off to the beaches in the days,at Caribou Island..then off to Prince Edward Island"home of the red sand and red soil,wonderful farmlands,we did all the touristy things,Haunted mansion the eventually led you to the most beautiful gardens and waterfalls, wax museum,ripleys "Beleive it or not" boardwalk shopping district where I bought a beautiful jacket at half price and a shop where I bought 4 novelty shaped watches for the price of one,"I have a watch fettish where I like to wear different one each day of the week"
  At the motel the owner made a big fire in the circular fire place on the lawn each night at 9 and others sat with us gabbing until midnight,nice meeting and having chats with strangers who made you feel like you knew them all their lives.
  While cynthia and Zoe enjoyed the water slides in the water parks I rested by reading and just enjoying the scenery etc.
  Today is the first day of "back to school" for all students. Thursday is blood test day for me to see if all is safe for my Friday chemo.
  I have had such a wonderful summer that it is hard to think it is just about over. My school chum from Courtney British Columbia is coming home to see her mom next week so she and I will be chumming around together,she lives as far west in Canada as you can get and I as far east so it is nice to get together once a year.Her husband is retired from the air force so she can travel cheaply or more cheaply tham most people.Bet it still costs her about a thousand dollars..wish I could afford that! Oh well I do enjoy the things I can afford.If it were a choice of friends or money I would choose friends.
  Hope all is going well for you ladies and anyone else who finds us-lol
  

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• trip -- tina swinimer, 13:33:40 08/23/06 Wed (hlfx32-1.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.82.1)
  Leaving today for a 5 or 6 day trip..camping 2 nights in a really large birch bark teepee in an authenic Indian camping grounds "Canadian Indian" then off to PEI for a few days all with my youngest daughter and youngest granddaughter who is 10. This is a big adventure for a sick old lady but since I don't feel like a sick old lady right now I will put on my teenager cape and act like a teenager for a few days!
  Thank you all for your kindness, you are part of my "will power" to keep on making the best of this life. Love you!
  

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• chemo -- tina swinimer, 15:04:53 08/19/06 Sat (hlfx31-19.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.81.19)
  Someones prayers must be working, remember I said if the tests showed the chemo was not working they would take me off it. Yesterday (Friday) they told me that my Thursday tests showed that the chemo has shrunk my growths and they are continueing my chemo, Had a chemo treatment yesterday,
  thank you for your prayers, I am sure prayers have helped as much as the chemo.
  

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  • Re: chemo -- Phyllis, 18:15:41 08/22/06 Tue
  
  
• No More Cooking Class! -- Ellie., 03:13:32 08/19/06 Sat (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  Hi Tina and Phyliss, my cooking class has slid away. What happened was that about ten daysago I somehow hurt my lower back, really sore.. As the cooking class consists of standing in the kitchen,preparing/cooking, then washing up HEAPS of dishes/pans/etc afterwards (no dishwasher, town hall kitchen) I knew I couldnt do it that Friday.I thought I might go back yesterday, but my back tho less sore was still 'stiff' so I thought it better not to go.
  However, I do have the recipe book they gave us at the first class, so I can send you some recipes Phyliss.. Would you like main meals/desserts or both?
  Spring is springing! There are daffodils and jonquils out in the gardens, masses of trees in pink and white blossom.. so pretty.. it only Spring didn't lead on to the 'orrible heat of summer!
  Parades are great Tina.. lovely community get togethers.. we have a big local Music Fest coming up next week, and then a big writing fest in Oct.
  Had a theatre group meeting Thurs night to start planning our next production.
  On Sept 2nd I'm invited to a first birthday party for my great grandaughter Jemillah. Such a cutie.
  Enjoy your days!
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: No More Cooking Class! -- Phyllis, 18:09:33 08/22/06 Tue
  
  
• Tina. -- Ellie, 17:17:22 08/19/06 Sat (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  Tina, that is wonderful news! I was thinking of you today. I knew the date of your appointment, and was going to ask earlier today, but then I thought if it was not good news you might not want to say anything,so I just thought of you instead!
  Faith is a wonderful thing.. and you richly deserve good things.
  Hugs and happiness.
  Ellie.
  

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• parades -- tina swinimer, 12:48:15 08/07/06 Mon (hlfx53-2a-175.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.103.175)
  Couldn't sleep after 4 am today-went to bed too early last night.
  Saturday we were to a charming parade in Mahone Bay,the town usually has 2000 people but for the classic boat festival the town swelled to at least 10,000 people so all the bed and breakfast places,inns , restaurants in the town and surrounding areas were absolutely filled but Ralston and I managed to get in a restaurant in a village called Western Shore, we had a big feed of scallops and fries,they were done just perfectly.
  Today my 2 daughters and I are going to the city of Halifax,that city joins efforts with the city of Dartmouth on Natal day and combines their 2 parades as one, they parade through some streets of Halifax and continue accross the hugh bridge to Dartmouth and then through Dartmouth streets.It is usually a spectactular event.
  Phyllis when I used to look after my granddaughters , once they reached the 1 yr and a few months they would play in a pan of water with their toy dishes for hours,even though I was right by them it gave me a sort of rest,I could sit on a rocking chair and watch.Even though one loves them dearly they can certainly tire one out.
  Ellie I am so glad you have taken up cooking classes,it is not just the cooking it is the friends one makes at any classes, I took many night courses on lots of subjects and made lasting friendships..don't laugh, I even took belly dancing.Never used it after but it was fun.
  I am taking advantage to these days that I am feeling back to "normal,if there is such a thing-lol" to once again run around doing all the things that in all probability will be my last chance at doing but one never knows what the future holds.
  My thoughts are so often on those poor people who are trapped within a war and those who have been sent to fight it.So many lives ruined because of leaders who may or may not know what they are doing.The love ones who will never forget the ones who are killed.
  We have been having some really beautiful weather , we deserve it after the rainy cool June we had, our summers are so short as it is, July was nice and if all August stays like this it would be wonderful and I am hoping the cool weather doesn't hit in Sept.but I do like October so very much when the leaves turn their beautiful colors, I hope I am going to be well enough to enjoy it this year.
  Well I better scram and get ready for the trip to the city, it is only an hours drive from here but like a different world.
  Have a great week ladies, Ellie you are a day ahead of us already-lol !
  

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  • Re: parades -- Phyllis, 01:02:04 08/09/06 Wed
  
  
• Beautiful Weather Here In New England -- Phyllis, 17:06:58 08/05/06 Sat (dial-66-218-17-138.usadatanet.net/66.218.17.138)
  Hi Ellie & Tina,
  
  I read your lastest postings and look forward to hear how you are both doing.
  
  Tina, I am sorry that you were not feeling well from your last treatment. You are in my thoughts and daily prayers.
  It was nice that you went for an enjoyable boat ride. It is also so peaceful and relaxing on the water.
  
  My 14 year old golden retriever has been getting up around 4:30 a.m. and I throw on some clothes and take him out for a short walk. It is dark out and I do not go too far from my street. I usually try to come back and get a little more sleep before I begin my day. I treasure each day with him because due to his age I know his time is limited. I do not leave him alone for more than 2 or 3 hours. He is very attached to me. He comes along when I watch Kaitlyn.
  
  Kaitlyn has a play kitchen and it entertains her for a while. She especially likes to put the cover on the little pots. She will be 14 months old on Monday. She is walking well and if the weather permits, I usually take her for a carriage ride in the morning before her nap.
  
  Ellie, Your cooking class sounds like it will give you new ideas and good recipes. It is hard to cook just for one. I always cook too much but I can share it with my daughter.
  Congratulations on the many compliments you received on your plays. I am sure it was rewarding for all involved.
  
  It is always great to receive pictures in the mail of our grandchildren. I cannot post them either because my computer is very old. (Windows 95). I look forward to receive ones of my two granddaughters in Florida.
  
  I enjoy both of your postings. You both are excellent writers and I look forward to keeping up to date on your activities.
  
  I hope you have a good week.
  
  Phyllis
  

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• Sorry.. -- Ellie., 13:31:06 08/04/06 Fri (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  I'm Sorry I didn't get back on here when I said I would, but I couldn't get this site up for two days. I don't know what happened there. Tina, I'm am so sorry you went through 'pure hell" after your last lot of chemo, thoughts and prayers are with you for the 17th, that there will be a good outcome. I hope you have a lovely two days at the lake.
  Loved the description of the little red squirrels, and the ravens.. A lot of people don't like ravens but I do.
  Well, the plays I was in are over. The first week, 3 nights performances, were a little slow, but the next week, another 3 nights, we had FULL HOUSE every night, and so many compliments from the audiences, it was fantastic.
  I got a bunch of photos of my newest grandson Benjamin, 6 weeks old, in the mail yesterday. He is so beautiful, as is his brother, Alexander, 20 months. Unfortunately I don't have the 'stuff' to send pictures on line, so you will just have to take my word for it!
  I started a 6 week course in 'Cooking for One' today. Well, I've cooked for a family for years of course, but now I'm on my own I thought it might give me some fresh ideas.
  Biggest surprise was that most of the class were Men! It was sponsored by Veterans Affairs, butthey also advertised in our local paper which is how I found out about it.
  So there were six 'old fellows' in the class, and 2 women, me and a lovely 80 something lady, Mona.
  We did honey soy stir fry chicken, and bread and butter pudding, then we all sat down together and ate what we had cooked, it was kind of a fun morning, but crowded with 8 of us, and 2 instructors, in the kitchen!
  Thoughts to all,
  Ellie.
  

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• just meandering... -- tina swinimer, 14:28:50 08/03/06 Thu (hlfx47-75.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.97.75)
  Yesterday was our first "heat wave" day of the summer,I still wasn't feeling well enough from my last chemo to go to the lake although I think I am safe to go today.I spent yesterday in the living room with the air cond on except for a while when there was a breeze I sat out by the pond watching the damsel flies eating smaller bugs..real productive don't you think? Oh well I also listened to the little red squirrels chirping "we don't have the larger squirrels here that are in the rest of Canada"just the little red ones who I am sure can eat as much as the big ones, I think I mentioned before that I buy 2 $8. bags of cracked corn a month to feed the wild ducks, now 3 big ravens come to eat with the dining ducks, one of which has
  an attachment to me, if I sit on the front patio he or she sits on the maple tree above my head and I swear he is trying to talk to me.
  So much for my wild friends..did I tell you last Sunday at the lake my neighbor took me for a 3 hour drive around the lake in her comphy seated boat? Oh I loved it so much and miss the days when we had a boat.I am so happy for you Ellie and Phyllis that you are having nice times with your families.I have been so blessed that all mine live within an 18 mile radius of home with the exception of 2 grandchildren living an hours drive from here.
  This last chemo gave me a few days of "pure hell" my second worse reaction.Aug 17 I get a scan and if chemo is not working they take me off it, if it is working they continue this series.If I have mentioned this before forgive me- I think my brain is scrambled this week.
  It is now 7:30 am , I am going to take my bath and then go to the lake for 2 days,hubby is staying home with Brandi the dog, she will be 14 in Oct and the only pet we have left.Those that have been given to family members are doing fine but we kept Brandi because Ralston can handle her well,she is a beautiful tri-colored part border collie and part german shep.Have a great week everyone and thanks so much for your friendships.
  

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• Catching Up.. -- Ellie, 02:35:24 08/02/06 Wed (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  Hello! Phyliss lovely to have all your family together, that happened for me last Sunday (well, nearly all, not the ones that live in Sydney 700 miles away) but the local ones.We met at my daughter's house for a belated birthday barbeque for her twin sons, it was great to be together, and lots of lovely food too!
  Tina, I haven't looked at your mail yet, and I have to go now, it's our weekly writing group meeting this morning and my friend Shirl is picking me up for that soon. Will get back later.
  Ellie.
  

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• Busy Last 2 Weeks -- Phyllis, 02:03:57 07/28/06 Fri (dial-66-218-11-24.usadatanet.net/66.218.11.24)
  Hi Ellie & Tina,
  
  My daughter's babysitter has been on vacation this week, so I have been sitting several days a week. Kaitlyn is walking now and is very active. I try to take her for a carriage ride early in the A.M. provided the weather is not too hot. We are having very humid weather this week and it is expected to continue until next week.
  
  The heat really wears the dog out. He has been waking up around 5:00 a.m. and I have to walk him on a leash because he cannot go down the back steps. It really is too steep to put a ramp in the back of the house which leads into the fenced in yard. I do have a ramp in the front the house which goes onto the sidewalk, so I can use this until the snow falls.
  
  Both my sons flew home for a surprise visit for a few days and it was so wonderful to see them. This was the first time that my son from Florida saw Kaitlyn. My other son who lives in Colorado(my daughter's twin) has been home twice since Kaitlyn was born. My daughter's husband had two cookouts and it was so very special for all of us to be together visiting. It was the best surprise of all!
  
  I read both your posting and have never heard about the hodgepot soup. It sounds like it would be tasty.
  
  I hope everyone and their loved ones are all well. The summer is going by too fast. It is almost August already.
  Ellie, how long does your winter last?
  
  Sending my best.
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Busy Last 2 Weeks -- tina swinimer, 13:31:00 08/01/06 Tue
  
  
• Re Hodgepodge. -- Ellie., 03:03:23 07/17/06 Mon (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  Hi Tina..Phyliss, and silent members! I don't think we have a meal called Hodgepodge Tina, but we do use that term in referring to something that is a real mess, or mix-up.
  We have "Bubble and Squeak' which is English I think, love the name.. and it's a sort of fryup of already cooked potatoes, cabbage, and whatever else you have around.
  You sound as tho you are enjoying your summer Tina even without being able to swim.. Hope your Husband's lake party goes well.
  Well, I've been in the throes of play performances, 3 nights down, 3 more to go. We haven't had huge audiences, but those that have come have been very enthusiastic.
  The biggest opening night boo-boo was mine! I'm a judge in a court scene, and I declared the proceedings open before the rest of the cast had even got on stage! ooooh! However when they were on I banged the gavel and said 'NOW I delcare the preceedings open!" Steve, the director said it was a good recovery!
  Still very cold, grey and dreary here.I hate intense heat, but I would like to see just a LITTLE bit of sunshine!
  Thoughts to all,
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Re Hodgepodge. -- tina swinimer, 13:42:20 07/18/06 Tue
  
  
• hodgepodge -- tina swinimer, 12:54:31 07/13/06 Thu (hlfx54-1-60.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.104.60)
  I have no idea what I am about to say so I titled it hodgepodge.Do any of you have a meal that you call hodgepodge..we do in this area..it is made up of any and every vegetable you have on hand to make a soup and then after it is cooked add ,cream,blend or milk to your liking.
  Real different summer for me but not going too badly, sure miss not swimming but enjoy visiting all the old summer friends at the lake, Saturday is the yearly "Christmas in July"party at a lake neighbors..then Sunday my family is having a birthday party for my husband at the lake.
  I did not get to any "live"theatre yet this summer, not supposed to go in crouds where germs are more rampant because of the chemo. They even closed some of the nursing homes to visitors because of a stomache flu in the area.
  Supposed to get 40 mm of rain today which is a lot.The farmers are having a hard time trying to make hay and the strawberry crops are ending early and veggies will be expensive as can be this fall because they are rotting in the ground from all the rain.But all the trees and flowers are so lush looking from the rain, I suppose all things have their turn.
  Hope everyone is having a great summer/winter as the case may be-lol
  best wishes ladies!
  

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• 4th of July -- Phyllis, 19:46:26 07/01/06 Sat (dial-69-67-234-191.usadatanet.net/69.67.234.191)
  Hi Ellie & Tina and any others who read this site:
  
  I hope everyone is having a good day. We have beautiful weather here in New England. I am spending part of the day doing housework that really needs to be done.
  
  My youngest sister's birthday is on the 4th of July.
  We are having a small family gathering at my house to celebrate, I can remember the day that she was born. I am 7 years older then her. I alway kept telling my Mother & Father that I wanted them to have another baby. I got my wish and she has been one of my best friends as well as my youngest sister. She lives within walking distance (in the good weather) of my house. She and her husband do not have any children but are close to mine.
  
  Sending my best to you and keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: 4th of July -- tina swinimer, 15:51:36 07/02/06 Sun
  
  
• Ellie Here! -- Ellie., 03:54:15 07/02/06 Sun (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  Hi Gals. Not hot and muggy here Tina, very cold and grey!
  Baby Benjamin is doing well, and No, Alexander doesnt seem to be jealous (yet) just pats the baby's face and says 'Eyes. Nose!" As they live in Sydney 700 miles from here I haven't seen them yet, but have had a couple of good phone chats (of course)
  I'm still on the dregs of the flu.. it was a virulent little sucker! My main worry of course was the plays that I'm in.. opening night is July 13th.. but I only missed one rehearsal. so that was good.
  My daughter Pam had a Yule/Solstice party on June 24th. it was great. They decorated the house with Xmas lights, and we had a (winter) Xmas meal, pumpkin soup, roast and vegies, Xmas cake etc. As our real Xmas is in summer and sometimes so darn hot all you can eat is salad and cold meat, people here are now really getting into 'Xmas in July'celebrations.
  Phyliss I hope you enjoy celebrating your sisters 4th July birthday. I've always wanted a sister.. I don't have any..just one brother in Canada. We have a tradition of only one girl in our family, then a bunch of boys! This has been going on for several generations now! From my mother, 2 brothers, to me, one brother, to my daughter, 3 brothers, and to my grandaughter, 2 brothers. In all cases, the girl is the eldest, then the boys.Kind of weird!
  Have a good weekend all.
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Ellie Here! -- tina winimer, 15:44:45 07/02/06 Sun
  
  
• Oh.. Tina.. -- Ellie, 07:35:25 06/26/06 Mon (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  I am so sorry Tina..I haven't looked here for around 2 weeks or more, because I've been sick.. really sick-- with the flu. I was just too wretchedly ill to bother looking at my sites, and now that I have see that while I've been groaning about having th flu, you have been going thru something much more serious.
  Please forgive me. It's wonderful to know that you are not so ill with this round of chemo, and I hope it stays that way for you, though I'm sorry you've had to give up your birds and your swimming.
  Some happy news.. I have a new baby grandson born to Darren (second son) and wife,Jen on June 22nd.
  His name is Benjamin Lloyd, and he weighed just over 8lbs. a little brother for Alexander, 19 months.
  Thoughts and hugs.
  Ellie.
  

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  Replies:

  • Re: Oh.. Tina.. -- tina swinimer, 11:54:27 06/26/06 Mon
  • Re: Ellie's posting -- Phyllis, 01:46:42 06/27/06 Tue
  • Re: Oh.. Tina.. -- tina swinimer, 14:26:32 06/29/06 Thu
  
  
• prayers -- tina swinimer, 12:37:24 06/25/06 Sun (hlfx64-1-164.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.114.164)
  Someones prayers must be working because I was not 1/4 as sick as the Doctors had warned me that I would be this week.In fact I had a beautiful week, I was even able to drive my car,something I could not do 3 yrs ago when I had chemo. Ralston and I and my big dog even went and sat on the beach a while on Tuesday.
  Everything is so lush looking outdoors..all that rain bought out extra beauty in everything , flowers,trees and
  everything is washed and clean looking.All my flowers bloomed with extra glory this year so I have more humming birds around than I can ever remember.They are such adorable little birds.
  I hope all is going well for you all.
  

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  • Re: prayers -- Phyllis, 22:15:27 06/25/06 Sun
  
  
• update -- tina swinimer, 12:39:17 06/19/06 Mon (hlfx60-2a-223.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.110.223)
  Well folks..3 days since my second round of chemo..so far I am feeling very different than 2 yrs ago chemo.
  I came home home from the hospital very hyper.Cleaned and sorted things in the house to midnight, was to Daughter,and 2 granddaughters graduations the night before,50 yr old daughter graduated /nursing..with honors as did her neice,and Tammy from drafting..both my grandaughters.
  o.k. so day after my chemo..hyper as heck..cleaned my 2 giantpicture windows in the living room,cleaned the porch and the back cement patio..none needed to be done but other than clean I would have been climing walls-lol
  Now I was told I would be very sick this time from day 1 of second chemo..so far it hasn't set in but I know it must in the next few days but I am making the most of these days.They told me I had to get rid of my pet birds because one bite could drive my fever over the 38 and it could be fatal so my granddaughters and oldest daughter love them and have them now.I am not allowed to go swimming
  and that I mind terribly.
  just wanted to give you an update in case you have friends that get in this mess some day..even in its' worst it is bearable and so un predictable..even if it does not save my life , it is an experience that gives you the satisfaction of trying to survive so encourage friends and relatives through the years "hopefully you will never have to but just in case" I wanted you to hear it from the horses mouth-lol !
  

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  • Re: update -- Phyllis, 17:46:30 06/20/06 Tue
  
  
• treatment -- tina swinimer, 13:09:06 06/14/06 Wed (hlfx27-142177077067.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.77.67)
  I am starting chemo Friday.I was given the choice of 50% chance of chemo giving me 6 months to a year or no treatment and going on morphine.I know chemo will lower my quality of life by giving me terrific pain three or four days after each treatment and some days after that but even with only a 50% chance for a few more months and perhaps a mericle like the last chemo< I am going for it!Don't want my children and grandchildren always wondering if Grandma would have lived a little longer if she tried.I was never a quitter and want to fight to the end. I am not afraid of the dying but hate to leave my loved ones.
  Special things that I want them to have I have been giving them for some time, lots of people never get chance for that.
  If I am well enough next week I will let you know how the chemo is going, my body may go into a reaction as some do if their last chemo sessions were only 2 yrs away.They will give me chemo every 3 weeks if my body accepts it, then give me a scan and if the chemo is not helping they will stop and just give me pain killers until the end.
  MY yard is like the garden of eden so I have already had a taste of heaven,if my body accepts the chemo I will be able this time of year to sit out and enjoy while healing for a while..last time it was winter when I had the treatments which they keep telling me kept me living against all odds. But this time chances are very slim for even making it a year..they stressed that.
  

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• yukky news -- tina swinimer, 13:41:08 06/11/06 Sun (hlfx32-78.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.82.78)
  Well folks..the fight is on...my cancer is back,attached between my bowel and liver. Don't know if they will do surgery or chemo or what, you will never know how much of a fight I had to get them to test the parts of my body that were hurting..good thing I kept up the fight because by some mericle we may have caught it in time.If not I have had 3 years to prepare myself for a final departure and if you can't get ready in three years to go where you don't need luggage you are in real trouble-lol
  Will try to let you know what will be taking place.
  Another rainy day here and busy here-looking after 2 extra dogs for a week for travelling relatives.
  

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  • Re: yukky news -- Phyllis, 17:56:07 06/11/06 Sun
  • Re: yukky news -- Ellie, 06:51:32 06/14/06 Wed
  
  
• Mpre Rain Here In Northeast -- Phyllis, 20:27:20 06/10/06 Sat (dial-66-218-12-33.usadatanet.net/66.218.12.33)
  Hi Ellie & Tina,
  
  Ellie, I enjoyed your description and personalities of your cats. They must keep you entertained.
  
  We have had rain for over a week and still raining heavy at times today. My contractor came yesterday and spend several hours cleaning up my cellar. It was good that he did as a little mold was beginning to form on the wet stuff. He did a wonderful job and hauled it all off to the dump. He is a very hard worker and did it all by himself. He will be coming back to do some more work for me. He is going to fix my water pump so that it will go directly to the outside and I will not have to leave the cellar door open.
  
  Tina, I hope you will get some better weather. I too would like to have some of Ellie's delicious hot chocolate.
  
  
  I will be taking care of Kaitlyn more often as my friend who takes care of Kaitlyn is waiting to see how her husband's recovery is. He collapsed at home last week and was rushed to the hospital. He was operated on for a brain tumor. They are waiting for pathology report. She is a dear friend of mine since high school days who use to run a nursey school. She only watchs a few children up to the age of 3. She watches family members'chilren and took Kaitlyn as a special favor, Please say a prayer for her husband's recovery.
  
  On a brighter note:
  We are celebrating Kaitlyn's first birthday tomorrow with a family party. (Actual date was 6/7/06) My daughter decided the weekend would be better for everyone. She has ordered a cake with Elmo on it. We are having pizza and meatballs for main meal. If weather permits (which I doubt) she would like to have it in her back yard.
  
  My best to both of you.
  
  Phyllis
  

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• Re Cats and,,, -- Ellie., 12:59:21 06/09/06 Fri (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  Hi. Tina, my cats are Grania, dark smoky grey, and Feller, a ginger boy. And no, they don't like each other.. that is Grania..(strong willed female) whom I had for about a year before Feller has never accepted him. At best they tolerate each other, at worst have slapping matches. He's very gentle, never bites or scratches, but she always starts it,
  At it's winter here, and very cold.. they stay inside most of the time now curled up asleep in best cat fashion!
  They don't worry at all about trying to get the goldfish. I've had fish for a long time and the cats just seem to accept them as part of the family.
  More rain for you.. not much here for us. Hope you are feeling better now Tina.And I hope you enjoyed the visit from your sister Phyliss.
  Yesterday I went with my daughter, Pam, to Lunchtime Theatre.This is an annual winter only event in the city. You get the play, and a lunch of soup and bread for $10. The play was a romantic comedy/drama with just 2 actors in it and it was very good.
  Afterwards we went to this exclusive chocolate shop and each had a cup of beautiful hot chocolate. It was the BEST. They don't use choc powder or cocoa, just pure Belgian chocolate. A real treat.
  Happy wishes to all.
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Re Cats and,,, -- tina swinimer, 13:46:16 06/10/06 Sat
  
  
• Raining here again in New England -- Phyllis, 23:19:20 06/03/06 Sat (dial-66-218-24-116.usadatanet.net/66.218.24.116)
  Hi Ellie & Tina,
  
  We have been having rain (heavy at times) for the last three days. Hopefully it will stop soon. I haven't heard the lastest weather forecast today. I will catch it on the night news.
  
  
  Tina,
  
  That is strange around my name appearing in your e-mail but computer have known to do strange things.
  
  Ellie,
  
  Sometimes one is better off when they do not have a large yard to take care of. As we get into our senior/golden years, we usually have to hire someone to take care of it for us. The only animals in town are usually squirrels and hedgehogs. At the park which is within walking distance from my house, one can see the ducks swimming at times during the year. There is also one crane that also appears.
  
  Once when I was out walking my dog, I saw a huge moose who had wandered into a neighbor's yard. The neighbor had lots of trees and green which must have attracted the moose. I could not believe the size of it.
  
  Tina,
  
  Your area and the view from your house sounds so beautiful and relaxing.
  
  My sister and one of her college friends from up North are stopping by later this afternoon to visit me. They want to see the lastest pictures of Kaitlyn and my granddaughters from Florida. I made banana bread and have already eaten a couple of pieces before they arrive. I also went grocery shopping and bought some watermelon too.
  
  You both would have laugh out loud if you saw me with my huge golf umbrella walking Rufus up and down the street. The wind was also blowing and I was trying to keep my hat on while protecting Rufus from the pouring rain.
  
  Because of his arthritis and age The vet advised me that I should no longer let him go down my back steps (8 steps) which leads into my fenced in yard. I now have to put him on a leash every time he needs to go out. Some mornings it is 5:00 a.m. but I treasure his companionship and do not mind. I never have been a night owl.
  
  I have to sign off now as my sister will be coming shortly.
  
  Take care.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Raining here again in New England -- tina Swinimer, 14:13:47 06/04/06 Sun
  
  
• Not too many wild animals! -- Ellie., 18:44:02 06/02/06 Fri (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  Oh, No..Unfortunately I don't see too many wild animals. You may have forgotten I live in a Melbourne suburb, in a second floor apartment, with not even a garden or yard, just a concrete car park below! It does sound a bit grim,but as mentioned I have potplants on my balcony, and I do see different birds, and now and then lizards, and possums. That's about it.
  I was rapt when I visited my brother in Canada and saw
  
  squirrels and chipmunks in their back yard. Also racoons
  in a park in Toronto.
  So I have to be content with my inside 'wild' animals. Two cats and two goldfish.LOL!
  Ellie.
  

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• Hi Ellie & Tina -- Phyllis, 19:46:44 05/27/06 Sat (dial-66-218-20-72.usadatanet.net/66.218.20.72)
  Hi Ellie & Tina,
  
  Ellie, I am glad that your daughter is doing fine. Your family celebration on Mother's day with your 2 youngest granddaughters must have been very special. It was such a large gathering. I enjoyed reading about the teddybears.
  
  Tina,
  
  I am sorry to hear that you were in so much pain but thank goodness that you went to the hospital out-patient department. I am so so happy that all your tests showed that you are cancer free. I continue to keep you in my prayers.
  
  Thank you for your words of support with all the water flooding in my basement.
  I contacted my contractor and have asked him to do the clean up work and make sure that there is no mold left behind. I decided that I did not want to tackle this project because of my allergies.
  
  We are having very hot and humid weather which started yesterday. It beats all the rain that caused so much damage.
  
  It is fun to watch Kaitlyn as she seems to be doing or saying something new each week. She is very active and loves to crawl. She is so fast that it is hard to keep up with her at times. She stands up without holding on but is not walking yet. I still put her in the play yard a couple of times during the day.
  
  I wish you both good health and please keep posting. You gals seem to keep so active and are both excellent writers.
  I always look forward to reading your chats.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Hi Ellie & Tina -- Phyllis, 13:41:15 05/29/06 Mon
    • Re: Hi Ellie & Tina -- tina swinimer, 14:38:24 06/02/06 Fri
  
  
• Ellie here! -- Ellie., 02:08:36 05/25/06 Thu (dsl-124-150-1-63.vic.westnet.com.au/124.150.1.63)
  Hi Gals. Slow again. Thank you for your thoughts re my daughter. Yes, she's out of hospital and doing fine.They didn't work out what it was, but she seems all recovered now. I was up at her place on Mothers Day, it was a big gathering, 18 adults, mainly my son-in-law David's family but some of 'our'side too, plus our 2 beautiful baby girls, Jemillah, 8 months, and Matilda, 4 months. Everyone brought food to share so there was heaps to eat.
  Phyliss, I'm sorry I didn't catch up re your rain disaster, hope things are improving now. Here it's a different story, we really NEED the rain, but the days continue cold but fine.I also hope Rufus gets some help for his 'itch' it hurts to see animals distressed.
  Tina, I am constantly amazed at how much you do, you are something of a wonder woman!
  I'll finish with a bit of fun. Yesterday at our Wed morning writing group we all took along our teddy bears! It all started a a few weeks ago when Rudy one of our members brought in a small yellow teddy that had been on a 5 month round Australia trip with Rudy and his wife Shirley. Teddy got dramtically lost in the wilds of outback Australia,but was found again. When we all finished laughing I suggested we ALL bring our teddies in the next week, and Lauren our writing tutor said Okay, but we all had to write a teddy bear story/poem as well.
  If you didn't have a teddy bear you could bring in another loved soft toy, but nearly everyone in the group brought in a teddy bear, and we sat them all up on the tables then read out our work. Well, they do say that keeping in touch with 'the child within" helps to keep you young!
  Thoughts to all,
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Ellie here! -- tina swinimer, 14:19:55 05/26/06 Fri
  
  
• Update on Rain -- Phyllis, 19:39:18 05/20/06 Sat (dial-66-218-18-127.usadatanet.net/66.218.18.127)
  Hi Tina & Ellie,
  
  Tina, thank you for your caring posting. I really appreciate the tip on spraying with vinegar. I will do that after the water dries out.
  
  We still have been having some more rain. (not as bad as last week). I am leaving my pump running night and day. More rain is expected for the next few days.
  
  Today I have an appointment with the vet this afternoon. My
  dog has chewed a large hot spot which needs immediate attention. I am sure that they will shave the area and put him on medication. He has allergies which start acting up around this time of the year. He is on benadryl beginning in April until November but it still does not stop him from chewing at times.
  
  It seems like it is one thing after another lately. Two weeks ago my car window was stuck halfway down and would not roll up. I took it to the garage and found out it needed a new motor. The good thing was it happened before we had all that rain, so it was fixed in time.
  
  I am sorry to complain but thought I would let you know how things were.
  
  The bright spot is spending time with my beautiful granddaughter, Kaitlyn. She will turn l year old on June 7 and we will be celebrating with family at my daughter's house on the following Sunday in June.
  
  I hope Ellie that you are doing well.
  
  Thanks again for listening.
  
  Best wishes for a good week.
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Update on Rain -- tina swinimer, 14:43:07 05/21/06 Sun
  
  
• Not The Mother's Day That I Planned For -- Phyllis, 20:46:06 05/16/06 Tue (dial-66-218-17-155.usadatanet.net/66.218.17.155)
  Hi Tina & Ellie,
  
  Just before we planned to leave for our scheduled dinner on Mother's day, I went downstairs to my cellar. To my horror, both of my cellar rooms were filled with water. I have lived in my house for close to 33 years and had never had a real problem with water in the cellar.
  
  I called Michael (my ex) as he has had problems in the past at his house with water in his basement. He came over, and we headed to Home Depot to buy a water pump. We had to settled for the only models that they had left. There were so many other people who were in the same situation as me. Michael spent all day working on installing the water pump in deep water. He had to make another trip back to Home Depot for some additional parts that he needed. He also had to drive back to his home for some power tools. The usual route to his house was closed and he had to go on the highway. I managed to go through several pairs of socks even though I had my boots on to help him out. Needless to say, it was exhausting and I did not sleep much that night worrying about the water. If it got too high it would ruin my furnaces. Thank goodness, the water did not reach that level and the pump is running day and night. I really appreciated all of Michael's help. He said that I have always helped him out as much as I could and now he is returning the favor.
  
  Just to give you and idea of our state's disaster here is some current information:
  
  600 roads closed statewide
  150 national guard troops assisting local communities
  34 emergency shelters opened
  emergency workers evacuated hundreds of residents from flood-swamped homes and schools are canceled
  10 inches of rain (surpassed previous record in 1984)
  Hardware store sold out of 100 pumps in l.5 hours
  river still rising
  St Paul's School was declared a national disaster and they shut their campus down.
  It is the worse scene here in New Hampshire in 70 years.
  
  It is still raining today. We might get a break for Wednesday with light showers but expect heavy rain again on Friday.
  
  I will keep you posted.
  
  Phyllis
  

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  • Re: Not The Mother's Day That I Planned For -- tina swinimer, 13:22:13 05/17/06 Wed
  
  
• Ellie& Phyllis -- tina swinimer, 15:36:16 05/16/06 Tue (hlfx60-1-162.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.110.162)
  Ellie I am sorry for all the panic you had to go through, there has been an odd virus going around in this area,some people have just gone un-consious for a few minutes,come to and then realise they have a high fever which lasts 24 hours,some have terrible bouts of dirreah"splt wrng-lol"This seems to be taking hold in the 3 main towns and connecting areas surrounding us.
  Panic around curtain time is a good sign Ellie!!!
  Phyllis I have been following your weather forcasts on the t.v. Wow what a lot of rain..we are supposed to have rain the next 3 days but not to the degree you have had it.
  Glad you had such a great Mothers day..I too had a wonderful day, was taken to dinner and to supper,got books,a power washer "something I secretely wanted and was surprised to get"got a garden statue, just 16 ins high not a park one-lol,a light up crystal lazer elephant ornament and a beautiful plant...remember I have 7 children.
  So nice to hear from you ladies and I must say I have been lazy about sending messages and it isn't even warm enough for swimming season so I do have the time although last week I volunteered for 3 different organizations, selling mothers day carnations for Multiple sclerosis,did a bit for the animal shelter big yearly sale but am not being in any position of charge this year..they must hopefully find some younger folks for that task, I am not up to all that this year,and I did a bit of volunteering at the church but I am trying to teach myself to say NO, my its a hard word to use-lol but I will be 71 in October and I need to slow down a tad.
  Hope you ladies have a great week with all running smoothly and Hope you can put your boots away Phyllis!
  

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• Happy Mothers Day! -- Ellie., 03:54:11 05/14/06 Sun (128.16.233.220.exetel.com.au/220.233.16.128)
  Hello, sorry I've been slow in responding. Had a fraught week or two. My lovely daughter was in hospital for three days, with an undiagnosed illness.. had all sorts of tests including lumbar puncture (Ouchhh!) but everything came back clear, and they don't know if it was some sort of viral infection or what. Then a few days ago, my brothers Mom-in Law. Beth died.She was 91 and 'ready to go" but still painful for the family. I met Beth when I was in Canada, a lovely, lovely lady.
  Apart from that I've been really busy with play rehearsals.. only a month to go and it's getting fraught!
  Steve, the director, has that glassy eyed look!
  Wishing all Moms and grandmothers a lovely day with family, celebrate!
  Hugs to all,
  Ellie.
  

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  • Re: Happy Mothers Day! -- Phyllis, 19:20:10 05/14/06 Sun
  
  
• been just a hoppin around !! -- tina swinimer, 14:36:05 04/29/06 Sat (hlfx53-2b-68.ns.sympatico.ca/142.177.8.68)
  My how time flies ! Have been to 3 days of the local music festivel, 3 evenings of church meetings,some family gatherings, 2 animal shelter meetings.All this plus my housework, taking hubby for his reg. blood tests,myself to Doc. appointment but glad to say have taken time to just sit out on the patio watching squirells,all variety of birds,especially the ducks in my pond,mallards and the beautiful wood ducks which are usually too shy to nest this near homes.
  I have neglected you my friends and I am sure you have been busy as well because none of us has written anything of late.Hope you are all fine.
  

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  • Re: been just a hoppin around !! -- Phyllis, 00:14:18 05/04/06 Thu