October 1st

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 16 degrees, Calgary 19 degrees, Mesa 32 degrees” Jackie was rushing around like mad this morning. It was a day off yesterday and we were busy. This afternoon, we were golfing. She had meetings and phone calls all morning.

I whipped Daisy over to Audrey’s for the day and got everything ready.

Today we were at Darcy Ranch in Okotoks which is one of my favorite places to golf. It is a little on the pricey side so we don’t golf there as often as i would like. It is a wonderful layout.

We arrive and on a 19 degrees day only one of us ( ME) is in shorts. It is still summer like weather.

Awesome day. Some great golf and some bad golf thrown in.

I thought today was the best I have seen Jeff golf in years. He didn’t have the best score or his best performance this year. However, it was just good golfing with good drives, some awesome chips, and okay putts. I was disappointed in my score. I started off with par after par then a blow up hole and then some struggles and bad luck. I drove the ball today with only a poor showing on two holes. Long straight drives. Decent putts but what I need to get better at is from 100 yards in. I need closer to the pin.

Here are my little friends and I on the course. One in shorts not like the others and one not short like the others. LOL

Foothills and mountains in the background, manicured fairways with fast greens and no leaves on the fairways was amazing.

A fun day with a great course and nice weather. Even though warm and shorts weather it was a put on take off day for a coat. On one hole though my Raynaud’s decided to present itself which doesn’t help gripping the club.

After golf we went to sit on the deck and due to a private function they would not serve us. Remember what I said about the French Polynesian and Brecon. Well, here we are in Alberta experiencing the same poor customer service. It still astounds me.

So we head into town and with A&W selling Teen Burgers for $4.99 we stop and pick up supper for Audrey and us there. I was so looking forward to a Caesar drink. Oh well Friday !

Audrey and Daisy had a good day together.

In another whole complete direction this is something that I am seeing happening in Canada. I love the fact we are so different than our southern neighbors. However, I see more intolerance and hostile reactions to differences in thinking and politics. I notice this both in conversations with people and in postings. We should never become this but it is slowly happening.

Personally I have no issue with anyone having a different point of view or thinking differently. I actually like it. I enjoy the playful banter and interaction. These help to express points and facts to show them the errors in their ways. I especially see this in Alberta politics. The left wing, socialist portion of our population support becomes nasty, belligerent, and condescending.

If any of these people learned simple math, they would understand budgets and balance sheets. Instead of demanding and having unrealistic expectations of social programs, we would be a lot better off. We wouldn’t see the strike actions.

Thought of the Day

When I was young I sucked at golf. Now after years of practicing I am no longer young.

October 2nd

“”Mercury Forecast Edmonton 19 degrees, Calgary 19 degrees, Mesa 38 degree”

What another absolute wonderful fall day. That crispness in the air feels so nice. Shorts light shirt and warm sun are beautiful.

Fresh fruit and toast with peanut butter for breakfast was delightful.

I watched the news and won’t comment except say this hopefully short statement. We are in a mess with herd mentality and trying for a window of opportunity to force the government into huge debt. Projected 6 billion deficit leaves no room. CUPE Air Canada, ATA, UFCW Sobeys, HSAA all posturing. It is like a “Team ” Plan. The only one I would support at the moment is the HSAA. I hope they squeeze out a better deal. The rest of them are just feeding the troops and stirring up the pot and I wouldn’t care if they all were locked out. I feel for the kids. These poor guys not only have this strike to deal with, but they also were the covid kids. But the action is all for the kids not money. Sure.

Big tournament today so no golf at Turner Valley.

I stopped at Canadian Tire to pick up RV antifreeze. Price increased huge ! Got some Roundup and outed to the lot.

I worked out there all day. I manually watered the flowers as the irrigation is done for the year. Trimmed the lawn and plucked the flowers. Killed all of the weeds in the gravel. Blew the leaves away and swept the deck of berries.

I charged up all of my batteries. I packed up all of my liquid products in two milk crates. I am bringing them into storage for the winter at the condo. I loaded up the pressure washer to take back.

Started up the motorhome and let it run for awhile.

Cleaned, organized and readied for winter . A thought I hate to dwell on as the summer went by sooooo fast.

The balance of stuff I will return after our Thanksgiving meal coming up.

Wordle in 4 for both of us. A little tricky one.

A good day !

I see the temperatures hitting minus so the flowers will be all gone. That is Calgary with late springs and early falls. But it is a wonderful place to live.

I love my thought of the day today. Many people don’t argue with facts. Instead, they get emotional. Personal feelings often get in the way of reality.

Thought of the Day

Before you argue with someone, ask yourself is that person even mentally mature enough to grasp the concept of a different perspective.

October 3rd

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 19 degrees Calgary 18 degrees, Mesa 38 degrees”

Well you couldn’t ask for a nicer fall day.

Jackie had a full busy morning working like mad.

We had a tee time for 1pm and arrived about 45 minutes early. Lots of time to practice putts and driving range.

We met Kristin again out at The Track. She is such a nice young woman now. Kristin worked with me every Sunday at Blimpie’s. Hard worker, great with the customers and artistic making food signs for me. If I had to give a reference for her it would be glowing with the negative being days missed. There were not many days missed. However, we relied on her, and when she was not able to come, it was always last minute. Jackie would have to rush to help me out. I thoroughly enjoyed working with her.

Tee time arrives and we drive up to the starter. The Graces are still no where to be found. I said we would hit and then wait for them. Just then I see them pulling into the parking lot. I never like to feel rushed like that. We waited and they arrived. We rushed to get out of the way on the first hole. Then we had a very relaxing day on the course.

I have heard negative comments about The Track and i feel they are unwarranted. It is a nice course, lots of water trouble and is fun to play. Now it does not have trees but that is sometimes nice to have. I really enjoyed the course today.

The marker yardages were screwed up today so I played the white tees.

To the golfing. From my observations Jeff again had a very good game. Lots of great drives, many super second shots and plenty of great chips. Wendy is still struggling with with her hip but she is out there playing so that it is very good. Jackie played quite well today and in fact broke 100 again . Just too many topped balls which would have really helped her score. I would love to help her but you know the husband/ wife deal so I remain quiet. All she needs is forward lean on the club shaft to help her shots. She is an excellent chipper due to the Viewpoint course and once again showed that. It was the second long shots that hurt her score.

I started off strong with only one hole making a mistake on the front nine. I ended up with a 38 on the front with eagle tries becoming pars and birdies becoming pars unfortunately. In fact I had 3 eagle putts only getting one birdie out of it. The back nine kept going the same way until I screwed up. I ended up with a score of 80 which is too bad. Lost ball strokes hurt. Luckily lateral penalties which i was able to come out with a bogie.

Daisy was along with us today and she was awesome. 18 holes she was perfect and she not only likes the fresh air but just being with us.

A very warm nice enjoyable day golfing with ONLY ONE of us once again in shorts. Why ? LOL.

After golf we headed to the Firehouse Bar & Grill. I would have liked my Italian restaurant I’ll Brico but the others were not interested in it.

The food at the Firehouse is very good though and everyone enjoyed it. It does have that bar feeling like Dixon’s though so not like going out for supper more like a bar night.

Daisy was awesome waiting for us in the car.

15 days now sniffling is sick. Cold go away.

Thought of the Day

I told my illness I am not interested in a long term relationship.

October 4th–5th

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 11 degrees, Calgary 10 degrees, Mesa 30 degrees”

Cold almost winter. I don’t like it.

No rain so that is good. Plus not going into freeze mode. Flowers will do just fine.

I updated a lot of my work sheets. Worked on a plan for Mom’s GIC’s to move them to a time frame with the best rate and time before she needs the dough and will get that all done on Monday. It is amazing how a senior’s complex can charge over 5k a month for a 300 sq ft suite, food and a little bit of assistance. We used to have a rental cap on housing to keep greedy landlords in check but we need today a check on taking advantage of seniors housing.

Daisy and I spent all day lounging around and working out things, Plans for leaving to Arizona and when we come back etc. I think we will both be back for 30 days this Christmas. I don’t like that but will live with it. It will go fast as we squeeze in Christmas and visiting.

I can always go to the golf screens to keep up my tempo. I have to make sure my head speed never drops below 100 mph.

It is coming ! My golf course closed due to the snow and cold. This is at 1pm so most of it melted by now but you still see the remnants.

What a great series so far with two fantastic wins and one more win to go.

History made with a rookie pitcher.

A very nice visit with Corey, Victoria and Jackson. Watched the game , had a nice lunch and a small supper.

It is amazing how fast kids grow up. Plans to pick up Jackson tomorrow for his hockey practice in the afternoon at the Bell Centre.

825,817 students in Alberta K to 12 and 32,523 teaches = 825817/32523= 25.3 students per teacher in 2024/2025.

Anyone over 45 yrs old go back and look at your yearly classroom pictures. I did and every year 23 to 28 kids. What has changed ? Some labelling of behavioral kids which existed all along just not labelled. Two things that have changed both very difficult but not insurmountable. Large percentage of students with English not being their first language( Liberal immigration policy) and challenged kid integration which should never have happened without proper support.

Of all the turmoil caused by unions my only support is to the HSAA union. Under paid and over worked plus short of personnel. Sort of the unforgotten group.

The other unions I say let them strike .

I like the the approach to the CUPW ( postal workers). Keep negotiating and removing items after each meeting. Take signing bonus away, take job security away, time off away until a fair deal is reached. FYI Canada Post has cumulatively lost since 2018 over 5 billion. You want a raise you are lucky to have a job.

The ATA fails to understand a influx of 170,000 new residents in 2024 alone. Fails to understand a 5.2 Billion dollar deficit for 2025 and a cumulative DEBT of 88 Billion in Alberta. EVERYONE recognizes the complex and difficult job a teacher has. MOST can’t agree with giving a raise to an already well paid career when everything is considered. If the ATA would have asked for EA increases and additional teachers to help with the complexity of the classroom and classroom cap sizing it would have full support of most people including the government with a fair wage increase.

Isn’t it ironic that the worst Prime Minister in history, Justin Trudeau, was a drama teacher? The President of the Alberta Teachers Association, Jason Schilling, is a former drama teacher.

Every teacher should drive by the ATA building in Edmonton. They will see the Taj Mahal where their union fee is spent.

If I was negotiating this deal, it would include an 8% increase over 4 years. It would also involve hiring 5000 additional teachers. Additional EAs would be needed per classroom based on a student-to-teacher ratio. There would be a commitment to a class size maximum in two years. Then we would see where the commitment is.

The Teamsters Union for Sobeys warehouse demanding $30 a hour for a warehouse job is asinine. Automize the facility as soon as possible and start shipping from another facility to serve the customers. One last offer of a 3 to 4 % increase and if not accepted close the plant.

CUPE Air Canada flight attendant union should also be looked at. A fair salary increase of 3 percent a year but the unpaid work needs to be adjusted and it should be solved. When they step on the plane or start of duties that should be the start time.

The weather is looking bad for the upcoming weekend Thanksgiving lunch. I went upstairs lo and behold a opening for Sunday and we fill it in. Lucky. So we will have our turkey meal in the community room which will be good as it is big and fits everyone nicely.

Wow did Jackie get a deal on the turkey this year from Sobeys. She got a 20 pound turkey. Listed at $90 and with all of the discounts, coupons etc she got it $39. That is a super super deal.

I did a Swifter mop today and man does Jackie lose her hair. I love our flooring I installed during Covid but maybe dark brown instead of grey was the wrong choice.

Thought of the Day

Hair today gone tomorrow i thought was a term used for men

October 6th-7th

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 10 degrees, Calgary 13 degrees, Mesa 33 degrees”

I broke down and wore pants with socks. It was cool today with a small breeze so needed and glad to have done it. Only once today did my Raynaud’s get me.

The plan was to start the winterizing process of our Oasis Lot.

I headed out early as I was driving Jackson to his hockey practice this afternoon.

I started at about 9:30 am. My first thing on my list was the winterization of the motorhome. Now this motorhome has historical baffled me for a long period of time every year. Last year I made a post in my notes on my phone of the process and the switches direction and off or on. Helped.

The flowers are all killed with the heavy frosts. Sad !

I drained the fresh water tank. Then pulled the anode rod and switched the bypass valve. Then moved over to the hook up of the anti-freeze. I have a pickup hose attached to the pump which works well. There is a pick up valve, a bypass valve and a water valve for pressure water or tank. I had to dick around a bit but got it all to work. Two taps on the outside shower first. Then inside kitchen taps and both pee traps plus the spray. Let each of them run until pink antifreeze runs pink. Then off to the bathroom to do the vanity taps and shower taps. Last thing is the toilet and spray for the toilet.

Outside I drained the grey water tank, moved to the black water tank and back flushed. The hands turned white. Sorry, fingers turned white.

I unplugged the electrical power and stored away my power protectors and lines. I wrapped up the water hose and put it away.

Next I wiped each hydraulic piston on my levelers with WD40 then pulled in the slides and raised the jacks.

I took down all of the screens on the gazebo and the curtains. Folded them up and put them into storage. And removed the TV and my silhouette figures to put them away.

Time goes by so fast. One more day and I will be done.

Drove back into town and picked up Jackson to take to the Max Bell. We stopped at A & W which is only a few blocks away. Max Bell is an awesome facility.

Watching Jackson tonight he has become an excellent skater with a lot more stamina. It wasn’t a game but looking at everyone he is in the top 50% of his team talent wise. he loves his hockey.

As most know I have NEVER been a fan of Connor McDavid. Over rated, obnoxious, no personality, arrogant , entitled and the list could go on. For me the straw was when he refused to come out of the locker room to accept MVP after losing the cup. There were a lot of excuses but it comes down to respect, integrity and good sportsmanship. He is in the top 5 of the league in talent though. Today he should have EARNED everyone’s respect. It has happened a few times in professional sports before but he agreed to a reduced salary to stay in Edmonton, He is getting paid 2 million a year less than Leon. He most likely gave up to close to 6 million a year. With his new contract he is saying I want to play here ( his wife wants to stay) , willing to take a pay cut to allow the Oiler’s lots of cap space to get a goalie but he has only given them 2 years to do that. I RESPECT this immensely and will cut him a lot of slack just for doing this. With a goalie they have an elite team and could win. I don’t like that but they will be good for Canada hockey fans. If they get past their 50/50 controversary without Katz going to jail for fraud or fund misappropriation they could win the Stanley Cup.

Anyone else notice the amount of bars and craft beer breweries that are offering teachers a free drink ? This could become a crisis. lol

Now with a lock out notice they will not be allowed on school property. But as usual the spin will be saying angry tactic. Dumb. This allows the teachers to apply for EI which they couldn’t while on strike. You watch tomorrow they will say this instead of stating the huge benefit to them by being locked out.

Today was gorgeous fall day. Hitting 23 t0 24 degrees. Not even a light jacket required. Glad to see Wendy wearing shorts as it is WARM.

Our VIP choice today was Lakeside. It is a course where I can score in the 70’s easily. With the warmth and the course conditions it should have happened. Would have happened except for two holes.

Removing the two holes I played pretty decent overall. Two birdies and 8 pars but a quad bogie kills it. I thought Jeff played exceptionally well again with his score on the front nine beating me by one. He fell apart in the back nine. Jackie played quite well. Wendy with her bad hip has a hard time.

It was a very fun day golfing and perhaps the last of the year with the Graces by the looks of the weather ahead.

We decided to celebrate the last game of the season by heading to The Keg for Happy Hour. How can you go wrong ?

We had one of the best servers today. Fun, engaged and helpful. I had the Prime Rib sandwich with a garden salad and it was awesome. Jackie had a salad and slider which she says was perfect. Start that off with Keg bread and that makes a meal. A Paralyzer for Jackie and a couple Keg Caesar’s for myself. Bean and Celery and spiced just right.

We finished off the night with a Billy Miner Pie for both couples Jeff getting his free for his birthday. I keep forgetting how young Jeff still is.

Daisy was visiting with Audrey all day which make sit easy for us. It is always quiet there as Audrey turns off the volume on the Tv when watching it. Having said that Daisy went to bed early tonight so must have been awake for a bit today.

I forgot to mention. Jackson and I went to Canadian Tire to pick up a skate lace tightener for him. I had USD left from our cruise and since the cost was minimal i went to pay with USD. The clerk states they are not allowed to accept USD, What ? I hope it is not a intentional thing with our current state of affairs.

Thought of the Day

Golf is like taxes. You drive hard to get to the green, and end up in the hole

October 09

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 17 degrees, Calgary 15 degrees, Mesa 33 degrees”

What a night for sports last evening. The Toronto Blue Jays win the series. A great game to watch and a super result. It was very exciting during the 8th inning with the Yankees loading the bases and having a tying run at bat. Luckily our pitcher pulled us thru.

Then a channel change and another awesome game to watch. Down 3 -0 and fighting back to tie it was amazing. Edmonton did out play us a bit but Wolfe was great. The OT was scary as a ref wanting Edmonton to win for Mc David’s sake called a horrendous penalty on us. We weathered that storm nicely.

Then on to the shoot out. It was fun to watch as Skinner and Wolfe both played spectacular. Luckily Kadri gave us the win.

Nice to see us in the first place. Nice to see us in the playoffs and Edmonton relegated to the Wildcard spot. Great start for us and needed as the Flames got unlucky with the schedule having a difficult workload right off the bat.

Just an awesome fall day and nice to see so many golfers in shorts as it was warm out. We had a full shotgun today as there are only three days before the course closes for the season.

The course was in immaculate shape, I was experiencing no pain, the weather warm so I had high expectations. Not to be. Things just went sour taking a 9 on one hole and an 8 on another. I hate that. I also don’t like the fact of losing money as it cost me today with Larry P taking all of the cash. Anytime below 80 you usually win money. Golf is funny especially for me as I can shoot 80 one day and the next a 95.

No matter it was a wonderful fall day, golfing with friends and enjoying the banter.

I bought two light bulbs as I need the lamps to match light wise in the living room from Home Depot. At $20 a bulb but with a 13 yr life expectancy. Well, one lasted 13 minutes. I whipped back to the Depot and the exchange was easy . Hopefully lucky now. LOL WHO ( what manufacturer) would put a 13 yr life expectancy on their product and not think bad luck could happen.

The weather next week is looking pretty good near the end of the week so perhaps a few more games in.

Thought of the Day

I wonder if the receptionist at the sperm bank has ever used the phrase ” Thank you for coming “

October 10th-11th

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 21 degrees, Calgary 19 degrees, Mesa 32 degrees”

The last warm day for awhile and it was perfect. In fact which was supposed to have a temperature drop remained very nice. We could have easily had dinner at Oasis but then the risk freezing would have been high.

Today I headed out to the lot as I had a lot to do to finalize it before the cold hits. I got everything done except for my Stabil gas stabilizer. So one more trip out.

I started out at 10am and worked until 4pm. Steady and a little heavy today.

I removed all of the cushions from the furniture and packed them into the shed. Moved all of the furniture to the side the deck. Cleaned out the fridge and cupboards in the outdoor kitchen. Then started to tarp up the kitchen. I have a large tarp from Harbor Freight that I lay down, attach to enclose the kitchen from the elements with wood lath and nails. I then load all of the furniture in, and re-nail wood to completely enclose them. Covers on the chairs and video bar and install a snow load center post. I used my old bar cover and put all of the Adirondack chairs under it and in the gazebo.

Cleaned up all of the bottles and garbage along with pulling all of the flowers out of the pots. 6 heavy bags total. I couldn’t pull all of the roots out so will remove them with new dirt in the spring.

Funny as it was only a 6 hour work day but with the heat it actually made me tired today. I know lifting the tables and couch overhead will have the shoulders hurting a bit tomorrow.

All of the flowers gone is sad.

I placed bounce sheets in the motorhome and shed along with fresh rat poison. I filled my farmers mouse traps and all done.

All done except for the 15 minutes to stabilize the fuel and disconnect the batteries in the near future.

Bad loss for the Flames but it is early.

Up this morning and as I said very nice out.

Daisy loves watching all of the going-ons from her deck perch.

Today was get ready for Thanksgiving day. Organize the dishes, plates, bowls we need.

Ready the turkey, baste it and season it. Trying at 325 degrees this year. Filled my stuffing bag and put it in the turkey. Covered in foil and in the oven. A 20 pounder this year.

Readied the rest of the stuffing. Cut up onions and celery as addons. Peeled the 10 pounds of potatoes and readied them.

When the potatoes were done did the first mashing so now only need to heat and stir in hot 50/50 cream and done tomorrow.

Gravy all done and happy with the taste, quality and quantity.

Turkey all done , cut up and packaged with turkey broth ready to heat and serve tomorrow.

I could only find 9 herb and spices. I don’t know how the Colonel does it.

Ham all cut up and readied with pineapple juice in the slow cooker tomorrow.

So nice not to have to cook and clean everything in a rush which makes it nice.

Menu tomorrow is seasoned Turkey, thick gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, ham, dressing and stuffing, kernel corn, peas, carrots, cranberry sauce, Spinach salad, and pumpkin pie with whipped cream.

Had a very nice visit with Mary as she dropped in on her way to Medicine Hat. She is doer.

Victoria stopped by with her electric roaster pan for us to use tomorrow as we have a lot of dishes on the go. If I was younger and richer I would have a kitchen with two ovens, two microwaves and a 6 burner stove. So electric roaster pan, slow cooker, oven, electric skillet and BBQ to heat and cook up everything.

We talked a bit about strike votes, current strikers and jobs.

I have to say I am pretty proud of the way our girls, Jessica and Victoria turned out. Common sense, normal rationalization and not overly woke or left leaning. I can say their decisions in life are amongst the greater percentage of “common or normal” people. No feelings of entitlement, understand economics and balancing of priorities. Impressive really especially for their age group.

The wind came up, the temperature dropped 20 degrees in an instant. Looking at the Doppler there is snow in them hills big time and as close as Cochrane. Timing this year couldn’t be better in getting the motorhome done and getting lucky in securing the party room.

A little surprised in the Flames not getting off to a better start this season. Early but you don’t want to get behind the eight ball.

Hockey Night in Canada Thanksgiving Special tonight. Vancouver Canucks against Edmonton Oilers. ( must because they are turkeys) While watching the game I see the snow falling out of the sky. Brrrrr

Thought of the Day

I saw this quite small lady trying to carry what looked like a large TV. I asked can I help you with your TV. Angry response. “It’s a Ipad !! “

October 12th

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 2 degrees, Calgary 0 degrees, Mesa 25 degrees”

Winter temperatures with it being 0 feeling like -5 degrees. So lucky to get the party room.

Up at at this morning. I pulled out everything and organized for cooking times.

Warming the mashed potatoes up in the electric roaster worked perfect, Took about 1.5 hours. Just before finishing I added boiled cream and mixed it in and the potatoes become moist and fluffy. Using the ricer made a huge difference.

Sliced ham in the slow cooker on warm took about 1.5 hours also, I used pineapples for the juice to keep them moist. Perfect

Turkey in the oven for 1.5 hours and turned 160 degrees right on time. With turkey broth and tenting very very moist tasty turkey,

Dressing again with added broth in electric skillet turned out perfect.

Victoria brought carrots and along with the corn was very tasty. Audrey brought a spinach salad. And Jessica & Penny brought buns albeit a little on the late side. LOL

Ending with cheese cake and pumpkin pie from MaryAnn and Alan it made for a great meal.

We had a few cancellations with other commitments but had Corey, Victoria, Jackson, Jessica, Penny, August, Atti, Audrey, Alan, MaryAnn, Kennedy, Sheldon, Kristen, Silas and Emery along with us.

Lots of food. It is shame people don’t eat the way they used to. I watched and it is funny the choices people make. There are four times a year, Christmas, Easter, Birthday and Thanksgiving where you should NOT count calories, worry about sugar or carbs and just eat and enjoy. Life is a way too short to say on a day like today you are going to be careful.

I gave the pickle jar to Jackson to take upstairs and cut the pickles. I gave specific instructions directions to quarter them. Funny kid he cut the pickles in quarters horizontally not vertical. He did it on purpose. I had to laugh !

Silas was lucky to have birthday presents today also.

Played a pin the hat on the turkey game.

It is a lot of work for a 1 hour meal. A lot of work. BUT it is enjoyable doing it and i like to see people enjoy it. I especially like when they eat normal instead of being picky worrying about fat, calories, carbs etc. Enjoy the meal it will not kill you.

A disappointing showing by the Blue Jays tonight. I sure hope they play better tomorrow.

We have a holiday called Thanksgiving but few if any actually give thanks. We live in a wonderful country, great province in good times. There is lots to be thankful for in everyone’s case no matter the circumstances, we just need to remember.

I am thankful for – a wonderful wife, a beautiful family, great friends, relatively good health, being able to afford a certain lifestyle, and a great dog.

Thought of the Day

What we’re really talking about is a wonderful day set aside in October when no one diets. I mean, why else would they call it Thanksgiving?

October 13th-14th

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 4 degrees, Calgary 1 degrees, Mesa 26 degrees”

Cold. Stupid cold!

Working on getting everything done before we leave.

We booked our air flights today coming home December 12th and leaving back to Mesa January 13 2026.

Hotels are checked out for drive down the first of November.

I will register with the CDC for Daisy 7 days before crossing the border.

We have a trip to Red Deer, a trip to Edmonton, possible trip to Lethbridge already looked at and a few more must do’s squeezed in. Lethbridge is dependent on if Atti wants his birthday gathering before or after his actual birthday date. I also have the last golf game with my Turner Valley guys on Thursday.

I checked out the 2026 pricing for my AZ golf. It is more expensive than what I spent here. However, we will also be golfing more. I will do three 18 holes a week and Jackie will do two 9 hole and one 18 hole a week. The tee pricing hasn’t changed much from last year which is good. BUT looking at a few things and comparing Costco here and in Mesa including looking Walmart we are bringing toilet paper and paper towels for instance as it is a lot cheaper here. That never used to happen.

A uniquely busy day today. You always have to start with coffee and breakfast today being fried eggs.

First thing was going downstairs and opening our storage to get out our Christmas stuff. The dust is always ridiculous and I am so happy we built an enclosure for our stuff. The plastic bins stay dust free.

I have to lift down our bikes off the chain link. Funny how a bike lifting 6 ft off the ground becomes heavy. Then opening the two layers of tarps and plastic to keep our stuff dust free.

I used the trolley today for the 7ft tree in a box and three large plastic containers full of Christmas decorations. We are only home for 30 days at Christmas but I refuse not to be decorated. Drives me nuts when people are lazy and they don’t decorate. Even if people do not have company coming the feeling of Christmas and the beauty of decor is something I will not give up on. Even when we were home for two weeks we still fully decorate. In fact we love to decorate Arizona and here. The only exception I give myself is the outside decor at the condo. We are away and it needs to be down soon after New Years.

Our stuff has been culled over the years but still lots and I love it.

I brought it all up and while downstairs on another mission Jackie hauled it all into the spare bedroom. Too heavy for her really.

Then off to Canadian Tire for xxx garbage bags to cover our outside metal flowers in and to get my Stabill fuel stabilizer. I love the kiosk at CT as you just punch in a product and it give you the exact aisle to go to so in and out fast.

Walking back to my Jeep I had to admire it. Boy it still looks good.

I bagged all of the flowers and moved the furniture around for the winter season. Did I say it is cold outside ? All done.

Now to print off my “Parking Spot for Rent” sign as I rent it out each year while we are gone. $500 for 5 months is nice. Printer error. Numerous tries with no success. My laptop and printer are like arch enemies with numerous spats over the years. Then I notice the B&W cartridge is low.

I jump into the Jeep and headed to Staples. Printer supplies are priced stupid. I bought two regular size cartridges at $50. Leaving Staples in my Jeep, a young lady walks in the center of the roadway. She doesn’t notice that I am right behind her. Duh ! All you can do is smile which I did or blow your horn but that would scare her. People are funny !

Numerous more tries and printer error keeps coming up. I would say 6th try I finally WON ! I had to shut down both my laptop and printer. I restarted the printer spooler under service settings. I set the printer configuration on my laptop to automatic. Then, I unplugged and powered up the printer.

So I got my parking space notice done and posted down stairs.

10 minutes later it is RENTED ! at $500 with brand new $100 bills.

I then printed off Jackie and I’s I94 forms for entrance to the USA. We have to carry these with us when ever we travel about in the states. I see nothing wrong with the extra care to see who is in your country.

Plans are made to visit Fred & Terry, Mom, Keith & Jenny, Ray so far with a few more to squeeze in. Just seems to busy with Jackie working trying to find time.

Just a thought on the strikes.

Postal – Funny how the postal workers all of a sudden agree to a rotating strike. I think they may have come to realize that the corporation will be shrunk considerably with huge job losses and the damage they have done to the business with loyal customers searching for other venues. Now the wages alone by far are not the cause of Canada Post failures but the union demands over the years have made it a difficult structure to operate at profit. I think there will be a lot of ” why did we do this ” when they see the NEW Canada Post. Other than rural sites we can get away without Canada Post and I personally would have no issue closing it down. Striking for more salary when corporation is losing 1.3 BILLION in 2024 alone. Stupidity

Sobey’s- Now they are complaining about their safety in regards to getting hit by delivery semi’s while striking. They are on the picket lines STANDING to block deliveries as a pressure tactic. That is the mob mentality and union thinking. I hope Sobey’s keep them out for a long long time. I will never complain if a retail store is out of something with them having to deal with this stupidity of absurd wage demands. Automize and eliminate positions as soon as possible.

ATA – This one is a controversial one mostly due to kids being involved. Some teacher points are legit and need to be addressed and have to a degree, but not accepted. Salary is NOT one of them. ie Air Canada striking flight attendants agreed to a 3 % in 2026, 2.5% in 2007 and 2.75% in 2008. Teachers are extremely well paid with benefits far far greater than most occupations. The class size, assistants needed is a valid reason for concern but not to accept a 12% increase over 4 years could be considered as greedy by some. It is using children as hostage to benefit themselves. To indoctrinate children to carry strike signs is just wrong. All of the TV ads and Facebooks ads for teacher support is a like a GO FUND ME campaign. LOL The NDP and the union are behind and pushing the agenda of this whole debacle. Yes the teachers voted down the two deals but it was the information and propaganda of info that moved the teachers this way. Tell me why no outrage when the NDP was in power? Why wasn’t the issues corrected then ? They had the same issues. All about the politics which is the underlying issue. My take on this is the gov’t should negotiate everything and compromise on everything except for salary. Then we will see if it is about the kids or the wages.

People going into professions like nursing, medicine, and teaching used to have a certain motivation. They were the kind of people who had empathy for others. They loved to help and serve society as a whole. That came with a huge amount of respect from the general public. This has changed on both sides.

It is surprising to me how as a society we have changed. It seems everyone that has a different view is ostracized rather than have a civil conversation with an open mind. Different views based on experiences should be fun to debate. A civil debate should be enough for people to change their minds. This happens if enough factual points are raised reinforcing a different opinion. It is all done without excessive emotion. Excessive emotion is the culprit to living in your own small world. In this world, you believe you are the only right one and are unwilling to change your view.

No one researches anything. People believe posts over facts. Influencers know the trigger words and phases to excite and have people jump on the band wagon without thought.

I plan to head to Oasis on Wednesday to finalize my winterizing. Stabill and trickle charger set up

Coming back this morning I had to stop and take a picture of this. One of the reasons we love Calgary !

Notice my burnout marks in reverse to get the correct angle. LOL

Come on Blue Jays. You can do it. Come on Flames you can do it. I want some wins LOL

As it gets closer to us leaving I start to think about Mesa. Sitting outside having a BBQ supper, playing billiards, golfing three times a week, having friends over for drinks and games and having a relaxing time. I do wish that Fred & Terry were still at Viewpoint as having them for 16 years with us was special. I am thinking we have another good 10 to 15 yrs of enjoyment in Arizona before we have to stop going.

A good day with a lots of little things done.

I am still on the fence about VIP Golf versus returning to full membership at Turner. I did the math and it is close with VIP winning unless I golf more at Turner than Turner by far is less expensive. I enjoy the VIP experience with the Graces which I would miss. I have to decide quickly.

I am a modern guy so now identify as LAW ( Lawrence Anthony Willard ) but seeing a new spelling of my original middle name as KYM I may have to reconsider.

Thought of the Day

One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say without judgement and reflect where they are coming from.

October 15th-16th

A little reprieve in the weather. Today Oasis finalization and tomorrow potentially the last golf game of the year with my Turner guys. Perhaps sneak another in with the Graces.

Dancing with the Stars last night was a way too weird. Everyone was crying. I guess I need to remember most of them are actors first and dancers second. Academy worthy performances. I know not the most manly show to watch but it is fun seeing the incredible progress of skill in dancing along the way for most of them.

I got out to the lot about 10:30 and started and it was only 5 degrees. Cold on the hands with wrenches.

First thing was to remove the beds and bring home the sheets and pillow cases for the winter. Jackie will wash them and we will put them back on come spring.

Then do the calculation of mm to ounces and tank size to determine the qty of stabilizer I need. Got that done and spilled some on my hands. Wow does that stuff smell bad. Next in the process is to start up the genset and engine and let run for about 15 mins so the product is sucked up into the carbs of each. When I started it I moved it about an 1 inch forward to ease the pressure on the tires and not have a flat spot.

Then I removed both battery cables and installed my solar trickle charger. Kudos to both of these. i have used that trickle charger from Canadian Tire for 10 years now and this is the same battery from 10 years working just perfect. I in fact have 3 ten year old batteries that are like brand new. That is unheard of. Take care of them they will last.

I install the charger behind the grill facing west to get the sun.

All done for another year. A year that went by a way to fast. No explanation for it.

I do know one thing that is so true. You never know God’s schedule for you. Talking to a neighbor today his younger brother just passed away at only 69 years old after a one month struggle with cancer.

I think everyone should heed the saying. As per Mark Twain- Life is short, break the rules, kiss slowly, love hard, laugh uncontrollably especially at your self and never regret anything that makes you smile.

The PC party wins in Newfoundland after a 10 yr Liberal leadership. Same story govt spending recklessly and a PC govt has to come and clean up the mess and people get upset about the cuts, no increases etc. We need this to happen fast with Carney and a non confidence vote.

I have my Lithium electric golf cart batteries charging up. It seems to be taking a long time. They are 11 years old now but cost $360 each to replace so hoping just a longer cycle this time. Biggest issue is the lack of use for them.

I took Daisy for a walk after getting home and it is wonderful outside.. Nicer than expected and I love fall. A wasp came into the condo. Always happens. LOL At least not a bat.

The graph is quite accurate except they forgot Gout between Junk and Putt.

Off to Claresholm Golf course today.

What a beautiful day. Warm enough I could have been in a swim suit. We hit 19 degrees today at Claresholm. I like this course as it is a fair course yet difficult with a lot of water.

Everyone played pretty well today with some great shots. Some one named LAW played wonderful. Numerous over 300 yard drives and some fantastic second shots. You take the visual impact no tree lined fairways and this course allowing me to swing hard good things happen. To the best part as I won $24 from the group. Winning the front nine, and winning two corners. I came to play with an empty coin container as the last game I had to pay and today it is so full it was hard to close. Love it. Last hole birdie was the straw that broke the back. Yes love the course. Low Gross and Low Net

Funny comments from the guys stating it isn’t fair with no trees etc. I was impressed with some of my drives myself. I average about 250 to 275 but today the ground a little harder and a slight breeze 300 yards plus.

Putting our clubs away and being hassled as my ” friends” paying me money some one yells, Is that you Larry ? Turns out Brant from Ft McLeod a guy I have played with for at least 10 years in Mesa in my Wed group was in the parking lot. As soon as he yelled I knew it was him as he was an auctioneer with that unique voice. Small world.

Great day , fun day but perhaps the last golf of the year.

As per the pictures it started off cooler but rapidly increased in heat to hot hitting the 19 degrees mentioned.

My poor Flames are struggling.

Thought of the Day

It is good thing we invented AI as real intelligence in the world has left.

October 17th

” Mercury Forecast Edmonton 10 degrees, Calgary 9 degrees, Mesa 27 degrees”

Up early this morning as Jackson had a special hockey camp to go to today. 6:45 wake up and pick up at 7am. This is awesome that a coach went to all of the work to organize this for the kids. 8am to 11:30 is a great time. This includes class room instruction which Jackson is excited about as it is his first, I am impressed as it is a great opportunity to discuss strategy and play making.

When we arrived one rink was full of 10 to 13 yr girls practicing figure skating. I teased him that like the Oilers he will be doing this. LOL

I got him all set up and then left and will pick him up when done.

This program made me think a little about what is going on. School curriculums are so poorly designed for real life. We need to relook and change them dramatically. We are teaching the kids so much useless information that is unneeded. We need to teach them real life knowledge. I have seen it so many times when I hired a university student with a degree and they were dumber than a sack of hammers. No common sense or self thinking. I loved hiring a farm boy and training them. So much easier and the results were so much better. What ever happened to the 4 R’s in a class room. Recognizing Furry’s and pronouns is wrong and should not be allowed in the school system. Kids minds are malleable and not matured enough to understand fully certain situations they see and experience.

Shouldn’t we teach them how to start a business, read a balance sheet and how to market a business, build a bridge. Math, Science, English and social studies with controls on this subject be the main focus and leave the fringe subjects just as that.

One easy fix for this fiasco with the teachers is to remove inclusivity. It would fix a lot of the issues that teachers have. Special classes for children with needs in core subjects and have the inclusive classes for art, gym and non core subjects. The second language issue I feel for the teachers. But having said that have separate classes for English fluent kids. Fix the issues. The boards have to figure it out. The government should not be so involved. It is all on the boards and the union.

Jackie had picked up the Flex for it’s service and was told we were down to 3/32 on my tires. I hate low profile tires due to longevity, noise, and rough ride but that is what I have dealt with on both the Flex and Enclave. This pair of tires only lasted 60k kms which is what they were rated for.

So I drove to Kal Tire in Shawnessy. I had researched tires last night and choose Kal for pricing, selection and they could do my alignment at the same time. Costco can’t and have limited choices of tires plus this time I did not see any price advantage.

This was one of the best retail experiences I have ever had for along time. I went up the counter with my selection of tires and talked to the expert. There are certain brands I will not buy. I will never buy CHINA BOMBS the nick name of tires made in China as they have a reputation of exploding. We went thru my choices and ended up with a 100K warranty, quiet tire, at a reasonable price with a tire from Japan which is great tire. We got that done and started to look for an appointment. With winter tire changes they are BUSY and I need it done before we leave. It looked like a week away, then my guy says he had a cancellation at 5:30 pm today. Done I took it.

Loved dealing with them as I asked for my senior discount, my loyalty discount and AMA discount. They were very good to me with a lot of discounts.

Great experience.

On my way home I had a lot fun. At the stop light coming home I pulled up beside a great looking Mercedes GL450 SUV. I can not let anyone take off from the light faster than me. So I left fast but the GL stepped on it too. Then to the floor and off we went. Next light I had to pull behind him as there was a car in the other lane, and off we go again. Anyone that knows cars knows the 3.6 eco boost twin turbo’s are fast and has 365 horsepower. 660 hp with larger turbos. It was a dead tie with this GL which when I got home and looked up the specs and it is 380 horsepower. $125K car against a $50K car. Made me wish for a muscle car again. LOL Made my day though.

I picked up Jackson and we decided on Popeye’s. I have to say that chicken sandwich is the absolute best. I have had most chains chicken sandwichs but nothing compares to this. Even Chic Fil A isn’t close. Awesome.

The Blue Jays had it and then failed. Too bad. Next time ! Do or die now though.

Just a late posting from Thanksgiving when Jessica and the boys were here. Years ago when Jessica & Victoria where out at Mom & Dads the girls thought it would be funny to cover Dad’s head with their hair.

Jessica remembered this and wanted to re-enact it so August participated. Funny kid !

A little on the black side for me. LOL

Jackie whipped me to Kal Tire to pick up the Flex. Super customer service and great pricing considering my options. These tires are rated at 100K compared to the 50 to 60k on the first two sets. Super quiet and feel great.

Thought of the Day

Grammy why is Papa bald ? It’s because he thinks a lot .

October 19th-21st

“Mercury Forecast Fall weather mix of snow, rain and sun but on the cold side “

Busy days.

Jessica came up from Raymond today to visit, see Jackson play hockey and to come with us up to Edmonton.

It was a great game. Jackson’s team lost but played very well. I thought played well enough to win but just not in the cards. He looked so grown up in his fancy clothes before and after the game. Lucky kid getting number 9.

Alan & MaryAnn joined us at the rink as we were just about at the north pole in north Calgary.

After the game we decided as some had not had supper to find a spot to have a drink and a snack/meal. Maps came to the conclusion that The Brewhouse was the nearest spot. Turns out it is in the University District. I have being in Calgary 34 years and have never been there. Wow what a spot. It reminded me of the plaza around the hockey rink in Phoenix or even Disney town. Bars, shops, ice cream shops, gift shops etc . Just a cool place and vibe filled with mostly young university students.

The Brewhouse had a line up and was packed, the Banquet did not allow minors after 9pm so I headed out the door and right across the street I see a bar & grill called Boroughs. I checked it out and it was odd as not that busy but a little higher end but they could accommodate us.

Very nice place, So the hungry people had their meals which looked wonderful and the snackers had salads or desserts. Jackson had the salmon which looked awesome.

I had most likely the worst Caesar I have ever had, And it was $15. Pretty sad a Calgary restaurant cant make a traditional drink, normal.

Picked up Jess & Tor at 8:30 am and headed to Edmonton to visit with Mom. Her choice of a meal for dinner was KFC. Now I like KFC and usually have it once or twice a year and this would be the second time. Talk about change. KFC no longer offers Potato salad but instead added sweet corn as a side.

We had a nice lunch and visit with Mom and then the family arrived. Alfred, Mary, Darlene, Kari, Jim along with Jessica, Victoria, Jackie and I with Mom in her small unit. Nice to see everyone together at the same time.

Pics didn’t come out well.

We listened to and watched the Blue Jays game in the car on the way home. Made it in time to head into Victoria’s to see the last few innings. Wow a close game and scary but very fun and down to the 7th game do or die. Go Blue Jays Go

Up this morning and voted which I hope most do. I laughed as when we got home I asked Jackie who did she vote for. We cancelled each others vote out. LOL We will see tonight whose team won. Either choice will be good or so we will see as long as Jodi doesn’t get in.

What a game. It is scary when you are only up by one and have innings to go. bases with one or two runners each time and we manage to get unscathed. Exciting but nerve racking. Excellent win. Canada’ team.

Tough team next with LA having the best pitcher in the league.

Off to the Track. With a seniors discount and a junior discount we golfed pretty cheap.

When I picked up Jackson I asked him are you sure you want shorts but he was adamant and it turned out to be a beautiful day. When the sun was out wonderful, little breeze but the odd time with wind and no sun, on the cooler side.

At the halfway house our server Kristen ( ex Blimpie employee) immediately said ” So this is the infamous Jackson I see so much of on Victoria’s page”

Our two playing partners were nice guys and fun to golf with. The one guy books all of the acts for Country Thunder. They loved playing and teasing Jack during the game. The Oiler hat in Flames country can do that.

There is a lot of water on this course. I said we would not count the penalty strokes for him. Jackson golfed very well overall. He can hit it long when well struck. But it has a tendency to come off the toe or slice. The back nine he was hitting it pretty darn good with a few adjustment’s. In fact ended with a score of 101.

On hole 13 this young kid runs from his house and yells “Is that you Jackson ?” Turns out an old best friend of his moved to Langdon and has a house right on the course.

We had a lot of fun being in “school”

This was a school day Larry style. Lessons today included geometry, physics, and mathematics. Calculations of angles, slope, distances and cause and effect reaction. I would call this “work experience” worth at least 5 credits.

After a super fun day of golfing we decided to head to Calgary and as it was later to have some supper.

My favorite Fajitas and Jackson’s fav BBQ ribs. Fantastic. ! I love the Fajitas coming out sizzling and making my own. Not only for the taste but for the experience.

Jackson made me stop at DQ on the way home and he runs in and pays for two Blizzards. Nice kid !

Wonderful Day ! Too bad the weather doesn’t hang around for next week.

Dancing with the Stars with the theme Wicked songs. Jackie and I saw this Broadway play in NYC a few years ago. Great dancing again.

Thought of the Day

If I had known how wonderful it would be to have grandchildren, I’d have had them first

October 22nd–23rd

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 15 degrees, Calgary 14 degrees, Mesa 32 degrees”

Thursday to hit 16 degrees.

A tribute to Jenny today. Not because she is 66 yrs old ( almost develish) but because we have known her for 50 years which is a long time. Today is Jennifer Judy Johnson ( Harry) birthday. We have known Jenny since she was 16 years old, Jackie maybe longer, and now it is 50 years later. Along with Keith, Jackie & I we have had some fun times over the years. I won’t re-tell all of the stores as most know them by now. Having said that did you know that Jenny has tried to kill me four times and almost accomplished that. Once while driving erratic in a speed boat, hitting me with a golf ball, horrendous car accident when she made Keith smash into a garage door and her sleeping in a tent while I was drowning in Lake Okanagan along with Jackie and Keith when our boat sank in a vicious storm. 4 times my life flashed in front of my eyes with Jenny involved. Besides the near death experiences we have had many fun times with numerous camping trips, multiple golf excursions, family gatherings and visits. Jenny doesn’t do Facebook so I need to make sure her special day appear here.

Happy Birthday !

I could only describe today as the perfect fall day. Cool at only 13 degrees but with the sun gorgeous.

I whipped out to Golf Town after the golf ball losses with Jackson. Golf balls are amazing as they range from $19 a dozen to $109 a dozen. I believe 90% of the difference is only marketing. The odd ball I see and feel a difference but I think any golfer unless their handicap is lower than 10 will not know or see a difference.

I picked up a dozen Srixon Marathon balls which are highly rated and only $29 and a dozen Taylormade Response on sale for $39. Due to the exchange and end of season deals it made sense to buy them here rather than in Mesa. They all seem to find some where to hide on the course.

Cleaned out the Jeep and filled it up with cheap gas. Nice where the pricing is now. And I see where in the States it is less than $3 a gallon ( .75 a liter)

The weather next week sucks which is good in a way. We will get everything ready to leave.

Daisy and I had a real long walk on the path overlooking the river. It is a wonderful view. The mountains today were a little hazy. Blue Devil Golf course was not busy as I only saw a few carts on it. At $135 it is not worth it and I haven’t played there for years and years. On the other side of the 202 is McKenzie Golf which we play for $72 and is our go to and favorite.

Three guys fishing in the river which would be a good day for that.

Daisy likes to be carried after a bit of walking. She is spoiled.

I had a golf game booked today at one of the few courses still open but a last moment change resulted in no golf today. This is the last day to golf in Canada but that is ok as we had a lot of golf already.

I watch the chaos on news where the views are extremely tainted and left leaning. Our news is so biased it is silly. I see the Facebook pages where a group is commenting in support of the teachers and then a guy against the flow gets blasted. The entire scenario is just dumb. Everyone is allowed an opinion without prejudice or injustice.

The scary part is I see Alberta becoming more like California and BC with the vocal left rising.

The buses today heading to the legislative building will be half full of activists not teachers. Lets say for a number 10K show up. That is only .25% of the population. All parents support teachers but with this fiasco the parents that are struggling with childcare are the vocal supporters. Giving support and giving into unrealistic demands, are two different things. It is a tough job but this strike is just wrong and the government is doing the right thing in protecting the general population accumulating additional debt. As it is, Alberta has a 6 billion dollar deficit never mind the 88 BILLION debt and the union wants 2 billion more spent. I thought math would be a teachers strong suit.

Easy fix to the mess. Give in and pay through the nose and let your children or grandkids pay the debt and interest payments and have a lower standard of living for them. That is what Nenshi and the NDP want.

It is an odd one as one of my best friends is a retired teacher, I have relatives that are teachers, I golf with teachers, and i know of one teacher that actually has their children in a private school and everyone of them has a different take on the issue. All support the teachers, but the bulk of them are disappointed in the ATA. There are more and more teachers within the system coming forward with opposing thoughts.

The union mentality is all together and if you step out of line it is not a good thing.

That is what makes Canada/ Alberta unique as everyone is allowed and we all accept different views. Having said that it is the dumb radicals on both sides that stir up people.

I had a wonderful conversation with a strong union supporter on the golf course and we talked for a long time. Conclusion came we both had different ideas some with merit but we will stay with our own ideas. ( sort of like when Jackie and I voted for a different mayor, LOL) It is allowed and i even encourage it.

It is difficult to understand the whole debacle. The wage increases are more than fair, and class room caps don’t work. We already have class room sizing in Alberta of about 21 to 23 students on average across the board depending on the calculation. BC has a cap of 28 students. Ontario has a cap of 25 students. Why the need to have it on a piece of paper other than to distract away from the actual want of unfair wage demands ?

One distraction that keeps rearing its head is the funding of private schools. First can you imagine adding 45,000 more students to the public system now. These schools not only ease the number pressure on the public system but they provide a better education experience. Non union teachers, smaller classes and not the society issues of the public system. Some say it is a tiered system that the rich population benefits from. This is true. However, remember the ease of numbers makes our public system better. These individuals are paying a huge tuition fee. They are still paying into our public school system tax base. I think they should be more self funded as 70% is too much though. I would like to be a 50% support. Just like the medical private care it is a good thing. Out of my price bracket but good for all of us in the big picture.

Danielle Smith has made mistakes but overall she has done a remarkable job at looking after Alberta interests. Events like this weigh on people and may result in some voters not understanding the big picture and she could lose a few votes but I would say if we could have a referendum the majority of Albertans support Danielle’s position. Having said that in Alberta we have 25% of the workers as union which is still miles too high but on a steady decrease for the last 20 years.

I hope the government does not use the notwithstanding clause but they may be forced to. Again if there is concern about the kids from the union go to a unbiased neutral binding arbitration and get this fixed up. Put a cap on classroom size ( even though we don’t need it) , add the extra teachers and assistants wanted ( not enough buildings to handle ) and offer the same salary commitments.

Back to work legislation will be coming. How the union reacts will be the question. Do they work to rule, do they go to binding arbitration, or do they refuse to go to work ? Will the other unions jump on board and attack ?

If the teachers are forced to go back to work, it will not benefit the students. The teachers will not be happy campers. I think anyone in this situation would not be happy. In arbitration they may feel they had some gain and voice.

As I said it is mess. The kids taking the blunt force hit of adult stupidity. The teachers raise of 3% if implemented is already down to a 1.5 % gain for them with a months lost wage. The union has lost all respect of the general public and I am sure of some teachers. The government has taken a hit in public opinion. And as I said the KIDS suffer. Why ?

We have just about everything done. Jackie has a heavy workload at the bank next week. After that, we are gone.

Looking forward to the peace, quiet, sunshine, warmth, friends, game, dances and golfing.

First thing this morning was the shower clean. Bright and shiny now looking good. We have a lot of calcium in our water in Calgary.

Next was one of our roller blinds was detached from it’s bracket at the top. These are roller Roman Shade blinds that we paid over $8k for in 2007. Still looking great, still modern looking and working perfect. I did have to order new brackets as the sun killed a couple of them.

These were professionally installed. I remove the blind ( a little tricky) and look at this. I would not be proud of this being called a professional install. Ok easy now they did work for 18 years without a problem. LOL It is just not right though.

One screw in each bracket and they are loose. Made the install easier for them with the slack.

I have been told I overthink, overbuild everything and in retrospect I agree. I always go 12 OC for decks rather than 16 inch or 24 inch. I always add extra bracing or more bolts or nails but in most cases my work stands the test of time.

“Memories”

That statement brought up these memories.

I built a beautiful pergola for Jess & Pen in Blackwolf. I did my work and left for home. In bed at night I am thinking about weight loads etc. I went and bought 12 – 8 ” RRS structural screws and worried until I got back to install them under the OZCO brackets. This OXCO hardware cost the girls over $600 just for the hardware but strong and beautiful. I removed the plates and used the structural screws under the brackets. The Cedar Shop rep say you know the OZCO screws can handle 1200 pounds. I needed the extra

When Corey and I built the outdoor kitchen at Jess & Pen’s we had a lot of budget restraints. We got it built in one weekend. The next night, I thought about the wind load in Raymond. I realized I needed more bracing and screws. By the next weekend, extra screws and additional bracing made me feel comfortable.

Both of these sheds and every deck are 12 in on center with lots of support. Always joist hangers when needed and hurricane straps

In 1992 the year after we arrived in Calgary I wanted to build up our backyard. The neighbors on each side hired a landscape company and for $5K they built a retainer wall.

I refused and built me own for around $1K. So 34 years later mine is still standing and it looks like some movement on the professional one. I used 6 x6 dug deep vertical and 2 x 10 horizontal and tie backed 10 ft into the lawn .

Not professionally done but done well and made to last.

Jackie has a doctor delivery appointment for her Mom in the morning. Then we will go up to Red Deer for lunch with Fred & Terry. They are getting ready to head to Mexico for the winter and we will be leaving next weekend.

Next week, there are a few things ahead. There is a salon appointment for Daisy. There is a doctor’s appointment for Jackie and one for Audrey. There is also a lunch with an ex-employee of Henderson’s in Crossfield. Finally, there is a hockey game with Jackson. Plus packing and loading lol. Jackie is hoping to finish as much work as she can. This way, she doesn’t need to complete any work on Saturday.

I am looking forward to the drive. We have had white outs, snow plows, hot air , rain and hail and each trip you just never know. I know Daisy loves the ride and the truck stop dog runs. I am looking forward to the time there also.

I think the only project this year is painting the interior of the home. I expect it to take three days or so. Other than that, I think everything is up to speed. I know the tree trimming will a full day. The Christmas light install will be a little more difficult. I lost one of my best helpers. They moved away.

Since no golf and home to prep I thought we would have a special supper. Baked potato, bacon wrapped seasoned chicken breasts, and leaf lettuce/spinach salad. It is smelling so good as it cooks. It is taking longer than thought as the spuds were large.

Just writing this and seeing this pic makes me and Daisy hungry. She stares at me wondering why we are not eating yet.

We had a legal hiccup at Viewpoint so we had to cancel dances and drinking. Today they announced we have a new license so we have the dances, and beer & wine this year. I like the dances. No Valentine’s Dance is odd.

Thought of the Day

Don’t be afraid to spend money on travel. Be afraid of growing old and the only place you ever went was to work. !

October 24th

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 18 degrees, Calgary 16 degrees, Mesa 28 degrees”

The last warm day yet I see next week they changed it to quite nice temperatures.

Not the big road trip yet ( next weekend) but up to Red Deer.

A statement I have said for years. The league favors teams that sell the NHL in this case the Oilers.

“Refs kind of took over the game there,” said Cole Caufield, “and kudos to them for winning it.”

This from a Montreal player after having three weak penalties called against them. It may come to a point where every penalty is reviewed. A panel will judge each one, not an individual. Refs and umps have a difficult job. This is especially true considering the speed of play. They make mistakes. Over the past few years, the blatant favoritism is becoming too obvious with the Oilers.

A nice easy drive to Red Deer.

The choice was Moxie’s for a Fred & Terry visit. Time goes by quickly. We had to squeeze one in before we leave to Mesa and them to Mexico.

A good tasting Caesar drink for a change. Way to go Moxies’s. The food was excellent. Everyone’s choice was made special not the norm which was great. I had the BBQ ribs with mashed potatoes and a lot of beets, I will tell tomorrow.

It was great seeing the Key’s . Fred & Terry both look great, Terry is looking fit. As usual conversation gets to health. Old people eh ! And as usual everyone experiences issues. Some more than others. Fred always impresses me with his ability to handle pain and discomfort. Cortisone shots in both feet, one shoulder and hip all arranged before they leave.

They leave Nov 13th and are back early April. Lots of company for them visiting this year with family and friends.

The visit was too short. I will make a promise right here. I will make sure it does not happen again next summer.

Being with good friends is nice. Even if you haven’t seen them in a while, it feels like no time was missed.

Wow what a night for sport fans.

All three teams playing tonight. Flames have to break a 7 game losing streak. I would love for the Jays to win game one. The most important game tonight is the Elk versus Stamps.

I have a bet with Fred of 1 beer for every point difference.

He was far from the 84 beer he owed a few years ago. I am far from the 46 I owed last year. This year, a round number of 19 is coming my way. I will forgo the one beer and accept a case of 18. Nice win for the Stamps and playoff bound.

Anybody else find the announcers color commenters voice a little annoying on TSN.

Well one game so far not going the way I wanted. 7 losses in a row hurts !! The Flames have lost their flicker. They suck ! But they are my team and I have hope until the say we did not make the playoffs. Luckily this year SO FAR the Oilers haven’t done that much better. With the refs help though they should start winning.

Wow did the Jays play well. Just like the wins against the Yankees they dominated the play. And these LA Players are elite.

I had the TV on, switching channels and watching updates on my phone and laptop checking out the other game. FUN !

Fun fun fun night with amount of sports on.

Thought of the Day

Champions are people that keep trying against all odds.

October 25th

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 15 degrees, Calgary 14 degrees, Mesa 30 degrees”

6 to 7 days left in Canada and counting !!! This year we decided to come back for 30 days around Christmas. We will head back on Jan 13th. We will stay until the beginning of April.

It is like the Blue Jays are the glue holding Canada together. There is unprecedented support for this team. Perhaps only the 1972 Summit Hockey series comes close. People are watching baseball that have NEVER watched before. Great for the game and great for Canada to have a way to show our patriotism. I found it odd though the coach didn’t get any backlash for swearing.

It is a funny thing. I like and dislike Carney. I like his calm demeanor, I like his intelligence and presentation of himself. What I do not like is the results. I understand the difficulty with the USA. However, get a deal with India or Europe, anywhere of substance, and build a pipeline. His background and belief system in green has to be modified. I am not sure that Pierre in this role at this time would be good. In a year or so maybe but not right now. Having said that if a non confidence was called I would still vote for Pierre.

I see the Bloc is posturing already suggesting to get their vote Carney has to do this and that. One suggestion to raise the OAS from the current threshold to the over 75 is a good thing. I would be all for this except it needs a cap. If an individual’s income is over 100K, the amount should be reduced or eliminated. Even if the income equals the average Canadian income, the amount should be reduced or eliminated. This is a tax revenue based platform and needs to be managed. A better option would be to increase the CPP payments. They are earned dollars, and the return doesn’t match the input. Perhaps a multiple faceted approach and increase the CPP and cap the OAS.

The ad campaign from Doug Ford is hilarious that all trade talks are suspended. Due to an ad. LOL Now a 10% increase. It is a no win situation.

It’s windy today. My cover blew off my flowers outside. I will need to adjust it and make it stronger.

Well 2 1/2 hrs later all done cleaning the Flex ready for it’s trip. I did not wax but did use a spray wax. Inside and outside, tires, rims, interior vacuum, wash mats, clean windows etc.

Jackie cleaning like a mad women in the condo and myself at the car wash and downstairs wash.

It is a love hate relationship people have with the Flex. It is unique which I love, it is boxy and has a cool factor. Some have teased about buying my own hearse. I don’t mind that. Just think about the money it will save to get to the funeral home in your own car. In fact, they discontinued them the year we bought. We knew that fact. That’s the reason we got a sweetheart of a deal, plus it was a Covid rental car return. The car is described as being utterly useful, funkily stylish, and slick-driving. They forgot very quick as the 3.5 Eco Boost twin turbo 365 horsepower engine propels this thing equal to muscles cars in the 70’s.

I love Jackie’s long hair. It looks beautiful on her. I would like to see it layered but she doesn’t like it that way. I think the difference is like adding Christmas balls to a bare tree. I am just glad she likes it long. BUT man does she lose a lot of hair. Never mind plugged drains. Hairballs are equal to Hazel’s on our dark wood floor. Getting it out of the Flex carpet is hard. I bought a lint roller which helped and I have to say worked very well.

I moved everything from the Jeep that comes to Arizona with us while cleaning. The back is relatively full. We have an electric cooler and two full sized suitcases. There are two golf bags full and two folding lawn chairs. We also have two dog bags. Additionally, there are many extra bags and boxes containing spices. We also have paper towel, toilet paper, medicine, etc. We have two laptop bags and two night time carry bags. We also have loads of Daisy stuff. There is even room to have her as our navigator. I have a plan and a system that works out well and still if needed lots of spare room. Try fitting this into a car. Not possible. Cars really are useless if you want comfort. A lot of room is needed to fit a lot of stuff. It’s impractical if 7 people want to ride together. I think we always will have a large SUV for Jackie. I like the Denali Yukon myself. It’s hard to get past the 100k price tag.

I have a few friends already down in Viewpoint. A lot of them are arriving at a similar time to us.

Do you have a beer ready ? Do you have your snacks ready ? Are you at a bar or at home ? IT IS BLUE JAY TIME !

Should be an exciting game tonight!

WORDLE IN TWO for me.

October 26th

” Mercury Forecast Edmonton 6 degrees, Calgary 12 degrees, Mesa 30 degrees”

We didn’t really think 4 in a row did we ?. A good game but the pitcher battle was won by Yamamoto who owned the Jays.

A cooler day but still a beautiful fall day. I do like the colors and the crispness of the air.

Loving the day.

We picked up Audrey and had a nice ” fall ” afternoon with her. Tim’s and lunch at Sikome Lake. A walk from the lake thru Fish Creek Park to the river. I was impressed with the endurance and distance that Audrey managed. Stamina is one thing but if you have foot issues it makes it more difficult to walk long distances. Yet we travelled a fair ways today. It could encourage her to walk to Lake Chaparral. It is much closer than what we traveled today. This would be a great exercise and outing during the warmer days.

A nice outing and Daisy loves the smells of many unknown animals.

The river is shallow and in some spots looks no deeper than a foot or so. We saw a few fly fisherman out enjoying the warmth and hopefully having some luck.

Kudo’s to McDonalds. We went for an ice cream. All three decided on swirl. Nope not on the menu anymore. So Chocolate would have been my second choice but not on the menu anymore. So vanilla it is. AND it was awesome. A way better ice cream than I remember. Thicker and creamery than I remember. It was great !!

Then off to see Jackson’s hockey game. Tonight it was an awesome game. The speed and skill level today was wonderful. Both teams played exceptionally well. In fact it was 1 to 1 until the 3rd period. Jackson’s team had a great third coming from behind and winning by a couple. Their goalie who played great let in one weak goal. Having said that, our team had 6 penalties. They only had one penalty. This required some great goal tending and defense. Great win for Jackson team.

Heaters on tonight which was nice to have. A older rink but nice.

We need an early morning rise. Daisy has her beauty salon appointment at 9 am. She needs her walk and business done before that.

Finally a Flames win. Yahoo Now lets go on a run.

Cool day, dreary day. Pay bills day. Pay more bills day

I bought an Asus tablet years ago. We used it when we first got it but not for years. So, I thought I’d start it up. I even remembered the password. Marketing is costly. The USB sizing every year changes. Software changes and lack of support like Win 7 changing etc. Well, the software on this is Android 4.0 and no longer supports most things. So just about a useless machine. It can be used for email, and browsing and the app only. Oh well.

We also started up Jackie’s Kobo. I loaded like 10000 books on it but she doesn’t like many of them.

Dropped Daisy after a short walk. She acted like a funny little girl pretending to be scared. She wanted to get attention from the salon owners. Just waiting for the pick up call.

*&^%%^ Darn, shocked, dismayed, disappointed, pissed off, cry, In these few days of limbo before we go south I decided to head to the gym as sore muscles before golf won’t happen. I did all of my normal weightlifting and bench pressing etc not to build bulk but to maintain mass. Then reality hit me hard. For the first time since I was 18 years old, I couldn’t single arm curl a 50-pound weight. This had never happened before. That used to be nothing for me. I can do my 40 pounds 10 reps but I can not curl the 50 pounds. I have decided to go to the gym each day and build this arm curl strength back up. I had to look the average weight of people to confirm what is going on. Made me feel a little better. The average 65 yr old beginner is 9 pounds. A novice is 20 pounds. An advanced person is 55 pounds. I will work on the 40 until I get to about 25 reps. Then I will attempt the 50’s again in a week or so. I am going to go to the gym in Mesa. My issue is the sore muscles after a workout effect my golf game and the golf is priority. The issue is with one broken bicep I cant do bench presses or double arm curls which were my favorite. I was never a muscled guy due to genetics. However, I lifted weights for years. I used to have great arms. No so much now and in fact with the loss of weight of 40 pounds muscle left also.

Well that was annoying.

Daisy smells wonderful. That makes me feel better.

Our news broadcasters is so biased it is amazing. Using words like punishing, bully, threaten them only fuels the situation. Fines are the only way to control the policy. Mediation is only a call away but the ATA doesn’t want to play ball.

Food banks usage up over 200K people per month with seniors, families etc in dire need because of the high cost of food. And unions are still asking for asinine wage increases.

Our labour force in Alberta needs a total reset.

While out today I drove by this house in our neighborhood. I love it. It shows the difference between the cheap vinyl siding look and the 8″ plank look of Hardi. Insurance companies are dumb not giving a special discount for this upgrade as it is hail resistant. This product is also pre-painted with a baked on UV resistant product and 15 year warranty. I hope they do the complete house but it still looks awesome.

Does anyone else fell anxious while watching the Blue Jays. I guess it is due to it being the final but it is fun yet nerve wracking.

Daisy with her new haircut smelling and looking good.

Thought of the Day

it was so quiet in the extra innings when the Jays were batting you could hear the gunshots of LA.

October 28th

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 8 degrees, Calgary 8 degrees, Mesa 33 degrees “

Wow what a game. In fact two games in one. Unfortunately LA won but it was fun to watch and nerve racking. 9 innings without a run. Ohtani is amazing.

A drive up to Crossfield today and a visit with a old friend and ex employee. Brian & Donna Greebe live there now and we decided to get together. I was bugging them. I told them I missed my Christmas Cake. Donna used to give it to Brian every year to give to me. I loved it as it was quite unique using Ju-Jubes instead of maraschino cherries in it.

Back story on Brian. He worked with me for years at Henderson Wholesale Building Supplies. He was hired on to work in the warehouse and excelled there. I do remember one incident though when a Skilsaw kicked back and he cut his leg causing a nasty cut. He performed so well and I saw something in him I promoted him to the inside sales desk. Brian has a great personality and is the type that wants to help people. I had him for training sit beside my lead guy Terry to watch and learn. Having to learn the idiosyncrasies of our computer software plus learning the product is a big task and Brian handled it well. A time later I lost my lead sales desk to another company and Brian had to step up. I was nervous but Brian when losing his side man jumped leaps and bounds from where he was to become a very important clog on our sales desk team. Customers loved him as did I with the job he was doing.

We met Brian & Donna at a small town restaurant in Crossfield. We had a great visit with them. Nice to see a work friend enjoying a more relaxed and semi retired life. Donna still has her muscle car in the garage which is great to hear.

Brian is working part time in Crossfield and Donna is retired from Encana. Talking to them even though it is the norm nowadays when she retired her benefit package also retired. With the size of Encana, I would have thought they would offer a retirement benefit. However, more companies are choosing not to provide this. It is extremely expensive for a company and most have reduced if not eliminated this.

You don’t see private company employees striking !

And they brought me a huge special Christmas cake. Thank you

It’s always nice to get together. Seeing people you used to work with and had a close relationship is wonderful. My staff some of which I worked with for over 25 yrs are the best. You think about it we spent 40 plus hours a week with them. Unlike huge corporations with high turn over our group stuck together. We need to do to this type of visits more.

Wow another sports night. We had the Blue Jays playing. The Flames were against the Leafs. The Oilers were playing tonight too. I pinned the scores. Then I switched channels and watched my phone.

Tonight we had another fun night watching Jackson play hockey. The game ended as a tie and rightly so as the teams were very even. It was a good game but lacked the intensity of the last one. The out of school and laying around got to them. Jackson played well getting chances and making good plays. He was also awarded the Assistant Captain lettering on his sweater.

This Seven Chiefs Arena is unbelievably beautiful. Amazing how nice, how modern and well designed it is.

I forgot to mention what happened in scoring. The Oilers won. The Jays won. The Flames burnt out. Again.

Ohtani striking out is a real booster for our team. Bring the next game on. Jr’s home run epic.

Thought of the Day

Sports do not build character. They expose it.

October 29-30th

“Mercury Forecast- still that fall type of weather, Cool but nice and still sandals on”

I started packing my suitcase today. You need a fair amount of clothes for 5 months. Plus you still need to leave some here for when we come back in December. I think I have it all done. Nice thing is what you forget or need and you don’t have, there are plenty of stores in our area. I surprised myself how many golf shirts I have. I have at least 6 pairs of golf shorts that are black. However, most of them are looking sun faded. It is amazing how that sun gets to them. They make a back-to-black for plastic on cars. They need something that I can drop in the washing machine.

I think I have it all done it is just a matter of time before loading the car. Jackie has been so busy working and doing things she hasn’t started yet.

We met Jeff & Wendy at the Rockwell tonight for the game. I like this place. A huge amount of large TV’s , good food that is reasonably priced and cold beer. And normal beer. Speaking of beer, we missed seeing our waitress for the ninth inning. We ran out of beer, but we still had a fair amount to quench our thirst for the night.

A fun game, a great game and a fun night. Nice to see the Graces before we leave.

The highlight of the night was Jackie winning a Blue Jays outfit. It is the new Sky Line sweater they created this year. Very cool.

Captain Jacqueline Kirk now playing.

We have been with Jeff & Wendy two other times where Jeff has won a Jersey. Two times at Dixon’s where he won a Flames one and a Team Canada one.

Fun night !

This is what happens when you come home after the game and not having enough beer.

Just a couple of things that I will add to the education debacle we have.

Inflation in Sept 2025 1.9% — wage increase offered 3%

It is an insult to our military especially the veterans for the teachers to wear red. They created a slogan RED for ED. Rhymes and is catchy but the real meaning and should only be used was the RED (Remember Everyone Deployed) that our military started in 2005. The teachers should not be allowed to use it.

I am thinking PURPLE should have been their color. Matches their political party and leader they love so much.

Jimmy Hoffa, Al Capone, The Family Five sound familiar ? All mafia heads of unions. Today watching the leader of AFL Gil McGowan talk it was disturbing. Not only the smirk and glee of attempting a government take down but his demeanor and attitude was brutal. He is talking ( suggesting) a general strike. Wont happen. You are going to convince other unions to walk off with nothing coming in or back to them. And especially as they all accepted ( other than one) wage increases of equal or less than this offer.

I do not like the use of the not withstanding clause. However, it was the only way to ensure kids get back to school. And EVERYONE should be on that page. Using the clause wasn’t an attack on democracy it was protecting our kids rights to an education.

It is a mess. I am glad the kids are back though and hopefully both parties come to some kind of agreement. The other conditions can be addressed but I hope the wage concession is not changed.

More packing and getting ready today. Arizona our happy place.

Where would you rather be ?

Thought of the Day

I saw a girl on the picket line today. Wow, she was striking.

October 31st

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 9 degrees, Calgary 9 degrees, Mesa 30 degrees”

A snippet of Halloween past.

Who doesn’t love Halloween. I have heard of people not liking it. They close their lights off so as not to be bothered by the kids. Some even think Halloween is evil. Some just don’t want to spend the $100 or so for candy. They need a word for Halloween nay-sayers like they do for Christmas. Grinch !

I love Halloween. I like seeing the kids excitement. I love seeing them enjoy their make believe costumes. Our Oasis Halloween we get 250 kids. I think the shots cost more than the candy.

The bars will struggle tonight. Do we play the game ? Do we have our Halloween celebrations? A mix of both. There will be mixed reactions and some upset people if they can’t figure out a happy medium.

I loved Halloween as the costumes people wore were amazing.

I loaded up 95% of the stuff we are taking to AZ. 5 months requires a fair of stuff. I was teasing Jackie that a full suitcase of makeup and moisture cream is too much.

As I mentioned before, it is nice to have a vehicle to carry everything. In my opinion, it is a must to have one where you can bring what you want. So far I have loaded three suitcases, two sets of golf clubs, two folding lawn chairs, and a cooler. I have also packed a case of dog food. There is a case of paper towels. A case of toilet paper is included. I packed a case of dog treats and a case of pee pads. Additionally, I have packed a dog carrier for the plane. I also included a bag of golf shoes. There is a large carry case of assorted cleaners. Just a few more things include her pet bag she sleeps in. I added a laptop and chargers. There is also a bag for coats as we go from winter coats to summer coats and shorts. and a night bag to bring into the hotels.

Blue Jay game tonight and we are watching it in the theatre room up stairs. Go Blue Jays

Well the game didn’t go as hoped. The media room was excellent for the game. Pizza was good. Baseball ok but exciting juts not the result we wanted.

Thought of the Day

There is only one thing that scares me on Halloween!

Which is ?

Exactly