January 1st
“Mercury Forecast Edmonton -11 degrees more snow, Calgary -3 degrees, Mesa 18 degrees “
And we are off.
New Years Eve as per last month was awesome and here are some different pictures.
Atticus slept in longer than I have ever seen. The stay up to midnight scenario must have got to him.
More water, more cherry juice and pills but the foot is not reacting as well as I expected or wanted. I will drink a lot of water and cherry juice today. I aim to drink until my pee turns red. Then, I’ll apply Volteran and use ice packs . Hopefully, this will bring my foot back to normal quickly along with the anti inflammatory pills. Here is an article to support my claim of the pain involved.
The Painful Truth About Uric Acid & Gout
Further on this point. Most women will say they want another baby. No man ever says he wants another round of gout ever. I think this says it all.
Daisy is funny not knowing what is going on. She went between the bedroom and Jackie on the couch and bed to Atti on his bed seemly lost in her selection of space.
I talked to Mom today and she is still in the hospital and will be for awhile. She still has the numbness in her left arm and leg and states her shoulder pain is unbearable. She has a real bad shoulder with it actually coming out of the socket. With them attempting to get her out of bed it is killing her.
I do not want to get old but it something we do not get to chose. Like a used car, body parts come to their end of use. Unfortunately, not all can be replaced.
A few are lucky enough to be of sound mind and still have a working body. It would be an interesting study. We should explore if workload and heavy body use as a youngster and adult result in better or worse physical shape when old. Mom as a farm girl and as a mechanics wife and acreage owner put her body through a lot of stress. Even in her 80’s she would rake 2 acres of lawn and pull leaves on a tarp to the back of the acreage.
No longer, as a roll over in bed she can fracture a rib.
Off to the movie house with Atti to see a movie. His choice was SpongeBob Square Pants. He rated it a 10 out 10. I will say it is well done. As a child I don’t remember any type of animation movie. Our go to and loved movies were like Bambi, Snow White or Mary Poppins which were much more realistic and better but that may be just my memories.
Full of kids so it is a drawing card. I love the popcorn. I dislike the exorbitant pricing.
I will say this movie had a resonating story line. The premise was for a little kid to be a “big guy” it and didn’t mean to be tough or mean. You could be a “big guy” and be a bubble blowing kid. You just need to conquer your fears. Then, just go on the roller coaster. There is nothing to fear other fear itself. Well done that way and a great way to convey it. The movie explores true friendship and courage.
The fog is so bad today that we can not see the windmill which is only a block away. The sidewalks and roads will be very slippery with the hoar frost sitting in the air.
Starting the year with a 4 line Wordle . Jackie in 3 lines. Darn !
Great thing though. I have not lost a single golf ball in 2026.
New year and another year gone you have to start to get things organized for your life in the future. What you want to do, where you want to go, what plans to do what.
Thought of the Day
Don’t be afraid of spending money on adventure. Be afraid of getting old and realizing the only place you went was to work.
January 2nd–3rd
“Mercury Forecast Edmonton -13 degrees, Calgary -7 degrees Mesa 22 degrees”
Heavy fog today. Slippery roads until it lifts or warms up a bit.
It’s a new year and a new beginning. It did make me think about a few losses of good people I’ve known. We lost Tim Horan in 2025.
One guy that I did a lot of traveling with as he was my North Alberta Sales rep Tim Horan. He was well liked and did a great job working for us. I enjoyed my time with him on the road meeting our customers. Tim was a messy car guy. He just never cleaned his car out. Good thing taking customers out for lunch wasn’t a big thing for him. One time his car broke down and we had to stay in this dinky little town in no mans land. When we moved away from company cars to personal ones with a allowance he just didn’t maintain them. He had an absolute brilliant mind. Extremely smart. Sharp sense of humor and a very likable guy. He had a polar opposite view from mine on a lot of subjects but it wasn’t an issue. He was anti religious, extremely left leaning, and pro union. He had cancer as a young guy and struggled with health for years. Great memories of our rides together.
Atticus is a going concern, He had gym visits, he played games, he ate a lot of food.
When you add August in the picture it really gets busy fast. They do love play fighting. All fun and games until one gets hurt.
Jackie was busy with food, bedding, consoling, and interacting. I have to say with incredible patience.
We had people in the main bedroom. Others stayed in the spare bedroom. Some were on the couch, the floor mat, and the blow-up air mattress.
Daisy was very confused with the loudness and the activity.
We went to Boston Pizza for a supper and then returned to watch the junior game. We left with it being one nothing. By the time we were at home, which is 6 minutes away, it was 5 nothing.
As usual Boston was good with its food selection. I think everyone enjoyed their dishes. Even though at a pizza place I ordered the ribs and they were very good. No beer no beef tonight.
This Boston Pizza has a screen that is at least 12ft x 12ft. It also has a golf simulator in the lounge side. The cost for using the simulator is only $15 an hour. So a great place to watch games. With minors though we ate on the restaurant side. We had a newby waiter which struggled a bit. It actually took and hour to get our food. The place was full though.
An awesome Canadian win. I would have liked to see a USA versus Canada final. However, it is nice to see them out and us still in going for it.
Victoria and Jackson came over for a nice visit with everyone. Luckily Mom was able to talk to us on the phone. She still is not doing well. It is weird how age takes its toll on us. Not so many years ago when she was 85 years old, she was still out camping with us. She also used a bow and arrow for target practice. Today unable to get out of bed or walk.
The group left. I am just sitting here for a few minutes in the quiet. Then I will start putting the Xmas stuff away. Peace and quiet is nice but the chaos is fun.
Got the Christmas stuff all done.
Watched the last of the Oiler game and will watch the Flames game later. Daisy is sleeping. LOL
Oilers lose which as a Calgary fan is good. If we can only win tonight we will be only 1 point behind Edmonton. Us a team without a star just hard working team players.
The Flames end up losing also. No catching up and missed opportunity again. This loss was one Wolfe and stupidity allowing a goal with only a few seconds left.
Thought of the Day
The Flames losing made me think about the one thing that bothers more than most. We reward LOSERS by giving them a participation medal and a lot of people are ok with this.
January 4th
“Mercury Forecast Edmonton -14 degrees, Calgary -13 degrees Mesa 22 degrees”
8 more days stuck in winter wonder land
Don’t you hate that at 10 am, you need to turn on a light in the living room? It’s just to see anything. And we have 3 large- 4′ x 8′ windows plus a full light door. Oh to be in the bright sun again.
Jackie was busy with her Mom all day. I did a few things around the house. Then, I started on my worksheets from last year. As I said BNS being dumb doesn’t let you download to a CVS sheet anymore. I loaded my desk top with the PDF sheets from the BNS. Then, I loaded the normal CVS sheets from the CIBC site. CIBC sheets take me 15 minutes, new BNS sheets now 1.5 hours. I can’t believe them to be so dumb.
Now to print them. My laptop and my printer hate each other. ONE hour later I finally got them to communicate. I had to stop and start the printer and the laptop. I also stopped the print spooler and reloaded the printer drivers. Finally.
As I said the BNS doesn’t allow CVS sheets anymore. When I printed the PDFs, the print size was so tiny that I struggled to make the numbers out. Not a good change !!!
We have been pretty lucky this being our 12th yr of retirement and having good TSX returns. We still have equal to our savings in 2018. Accumulation is much easier than dispersion. It is the not knowing the time frame.
As cold days persist I hope to finish of 2025 and create the new 2026 one. I use a template from a program I bought in 2014 and now create my own.
Big game tonight for Canada juniors. Scary watching it. Come one Canada
Darn Darn, What a game but unfortunately we lost. So close. Who is going to be watching the gold game ? Hopefully we win the bronze game.
Off to watch Jackson play tonight. The players overall looked a little tired. Not the crisp passing or play making that we have seen. Jackson overall played excellent with awesome passing that should have resulted in a goal. He had some great back checking and a great play that could easily have been a goal. I would say the score should have been at least 5 to 1 for Jackson’s team. Great win though.
Thought of the Day
A balanced diet for the start of 2026 simple means having the same weight of your favorite food in each hand.
January 5th
“Mercury Forecast Edmonton -12 degrees, Calgary – 11 degrees, Mesa 21 degrees”
To start today it is the 16th year gone by since I lost my Dad. I could reiterate everything I have said in the past about this guy. However, rather than regurgitate all of that, I will just say that it seems like yesterday. I miss him as much now as then.
If he was alive today he would be 105 years old.
Ok now Canada is in trouble. With Carney in power, the NDP and Indigenous are blocking a pipeline to the west coast. Quebec is blocking the east. Canada is going to be a broke country in a few years. The USA is taking control of the world’s largest oil reserves. This is especially concerning because it is heavy oil similar to ours. The USA has the refineries to handle this. We have 5 years max to build a pipeline. We need a trade agreement to sell oil to other countries. Building a pipeline will take us 5 years. Venezuela will also take 5 years to hit the market fully. It is a race against the clock for Canada literally. It is going to be ugly if the Canada doesn’t act quick. It literally is scary to be in this position. Act quickly.
My solution. There should be a federal non-confidence vote. The PC’s should win the election this year. A pipeline should go through Quebec. Another pipeline should go through BC using any kind of strong-arm tactic available. These actions are necessary to save Canada. It is of absolute dire need to act quickly. Otherwise watch out it will be ugly. If anything, the tariffs and trade war should be a wake-up call. We need to diversify our trade partners as soon as possible. This will ensure we are not so reliant on one country.
I think this is the worse thing to happen to Canada and potentially our economy in my lifetime.
Doing more budget sheets and again annoyed with the BNS and their stupidity not having access to CVS or Excel sheets. As I said takes me 10 minute to do CIBC and 1 hour or more to do the BNS account. I am still shocked businesses are not livid with them.
Then out of nowhere. Two months in and I start the process. Lo & behold, the BNS has returned the option to download CVS and Excel. Coincidence ? I talk to an agent. I fill out a survey. I get my want, which for anyone in business, would be a need done. Odd
But YES.
Canada was playing for the bronze medal today in the IIHF World Juniors. Not the gold we all hoped for but still a metal. Jeff phoned and we whipped over to Boston Pizza to watch the game. Over the years, we have had coffee with Baileys at 7 am at Dixon Pub. We’ve also enjoyed it late at night. It’s only fitting to fit another Junior game in.
Lots of fun. It was like old times. I have to say Boston Pizza chicken wings “medium” wings are amazing. I was pleasantly surprised how good they were. Maybe due to not having a bar wing for a long time.
Jeff wore his Canada jersey he won at Dixon’s Pub a few years ago.
Canada won so hopefully Flames do also.
Flames just didn’t do it. Darn
But look at the beauty of Calgary this year.
Thought of the Day
Hoar, hore or whore ? I always had these terms mixed up for years.
January 6th–7th-8th
“Mercury Forecast Edmonton -2 degrees, Calgary 2 degrees, Mesa 21 degrees “
6 days left before leaving Calgary. I will never stay in Canada and the cold if I can help it. I like the warmth and I love the exercise and movement that comes with it. As I said people being stuck in their house everyday is not good for anyone.
I know our plan the day we retired was to drive to Mesa. I am sure being retired would have felt a lot different. It would have been boring instead of having lots to do. In the winter I go to the gym for an hour, and then what ? I refuse to watch Tv in the day. You know how I feel about sleeping in the daytime. I prefer my good sleeps at night, so that is out. One can clean and organize but that is boring. I gained 3 pounds over these 3 weeks due to excess eating and lack of movement. I will lose it in two days down south. Boredom lends itself to eating. If I was stuck in Calgary I would need a daily routine/plan to keep moving and mentally active.
I lost at Wordle today. Dumb word.
Daisy consoling me on the couch after the loss.
Mom is still in hospital and not doing well.
Spent 4 hours at least completing my year end budget. One more day I will be done. So thankful that the BNS rethought their position and added the capability of CVS or Excel sheet downloads. As I said the timing was weird and could be a coincidence but sure happy they did it. Made the months a lot lot easier to work with.
Paid a bunch of bills.
Jackie is out for a coffee break with her girlfriend. Analog Coffee in Mahogany that has great reviews. Too uppity up for me.
Watched the news and then said same old same old it never changes.
Trying to follow the water restrictions best as possible. Best is key.
Went to the gym for a while and made the mistake of running on the treadmill. My toe is hurting a little bit now just when I stopped my pills this morning. Hopefully doesn’t cause another attack.
I plan to use our Air Fryer to make our entire meal tonight.
The flu is starting to hit all across North America now. It appears the shot is not aligned with this strain. I am starting to lean that perhaps most of these shots are useless. And in some cases not even good for you.
Time is moving slowly right as we get ready to start heading back to the warmth. Having said that the weather here is getting to be pretty nice all next week, A way above average. While that is nice, it is still winter, so not a lot do to. I do not skate anymore as my feet kill me. I do not ski anymore. Every time I went, I came back with a dislocated shoulder, elbow, or something. If I were banished to winter here, I would do both of these. I would need a fitted skate. Someone would need to tell me not to go down the black run. It is just that the green runs are so boring.
A good 4 hours today and finally finished my budget sheets for 2025. Do i like the results ? NO. Am I going to change anything yet ? NO
I set a budget amount for us to spend every year including inflation. This amount is based on financial principles that have stood the test of time. Have we being able to accomplish this. NO
In fact in 2025 we spent $40K more than I would have liked. Good thing for the strong market as we have been retired now for 12 years in March.
No “rule” is set in stone but the 4 % rule works and has been proven to work. I used this rule as a guideline. The premise is using that withdrawal rate, including indexing, you should never touch the principal amount. Our goal was determined by our expenses and the lack of a huge nest egg. We planned to use the 4% as a guide. We also intended to withdraw the principal as needed. You have to remember every financial planner wants you to keep your money and even contribute forever. It is in the companies best interest to hold your money. The other “rule” to consider is the 25 rule. Simply add up your fixed and variable expenses. Then, save 25 times that amount to retire on, considering the 4% rule. Ie expenses 100K a year, you need $2.5 million. Again based on preservation of principle. Here is where I have a fundamental different opinion than planners and banks. We prioritize our own interests. We want to spend our money to enjoy life. The concept of leaving a legacy is ludicrous. When we die, a legacy will be the asset sale. We should not focus on saving and avoid doing things we want to do just to save a cash legacy. Again in their best interests to keep your money in the bank. I guarantee NO ONE has spoken to a financial planner where the words legacy or inheritance doesn’t come out of their mouth. They are sales people !! They are trying to earn a living and in some cases an exceptional living.
The one word I hate is fiduciary duty. The cost to have them act as one is significant. Knowing full well that the market is still going to determine their success drives me crazy. Even a simple planner has a huge administration fee cost to them. Next time they present the returns of their plan for you, make sure it is NET of the fees charged. Many times, people just say they received a 7% return when in reality it is much less that. They can charge you a flat fee usually between $2K and $20K depending on your complexity, or a percentage fee typically between ,05% and 2% depending on your portfolio size. Percent fees are the most common. Ie if you have $1,000,000 at 2% that is $20,000 a year they are charging you. Now 7% return down to 5% return sounds decent until you convert it to dollars. Other than tax ramifications a planner really is useless.
So we had a wonderful year. We spent $40K more than we planned but had some wonderful adventures. Lucky for us our ” principle” today is more than the day we retired in 2014. Mostly due to the stock market.
I will let golf go for another year as we are doing it with VIP, Turner Valley, Viewpoint and Oasis plus excursions but soon I have to switch back to only my membership at Turner Valley for Canada in Canada as it is one category we spent a way too much on. Over $16K on golf. Now that is for 12 months and Arizona golf is expensive compared to here but for $2500 I get unlimited golf at Turner Valley at an above average course. Maybe next year.
The items that we spend too much on:
- Golf $16K
- Insurance – medical, vehicle, travel, home $ 9K
- Gas over $6K
- HOA -Mesa, Oasis, Silhouette $22.5K
- Groceries $12K ( for two people )
- TV, internet, mobile $5K
You can see how fast it all adds up. I can change every category and have over the years but most of the items are needed or on reduced services.
WHEN we have the next market crash on the TSX I will adjust quickly. Rephrase. I will need to adjust instantly.
i haven’t said how much I love our Ninja Air Fryer the girls got us for Christmas. Three meals in a row with superb results. I roasted the potatoes in one side and the pork chops on the other side. And it makes the best grilled sandwich EVER and fast. I love the thing and will use it more and more as i get used to it. Frozen chicken and the juiciest breast ever with a beautiful crisp on the skin. I am looking forward to asparagus in it. I cooked bacon which again was awesome. I need to read the manual one more time. I haven’t figured out how to switch the time or heat when using both sides of one side only. I have been power off and starting over but I am sure there must be a way. They tasted as good as they look and were amazingly easy and no mess.
On Jackie’s walk this morning she took these. Calgary when all hoared up looks wonderful.
It was like spring out today with the warmth. Very very nice for January temperatures. But as I have said before, nice to go tobogganing but how often will you do that. There were people out in light shirts.
I filled up with gas and was surprised the car wash was open so I whipped in there. That salt mixture is like glue. It eats metal fast. One slight scratch in the paint, and it gets through. It creates rust, which is like a flesh-eating disease in a human.
The overhead door froze just as it was my turn so the attendant had to manually open it.
Petsmart and Sobey stops and all set. I had fun with the cashier as I had forgotten to bring my carry bags. She wanted to sell me a carrier then cotton bags. I reiterated paper bags will do just fine. Paper bags used to be free just like plastic bags. However, they decided to sell them and have incremental volume increases. So they took advantage of it.
Sort of like Westjet and adding another row. As I have said prior , Westjet being owned by Onex Corp it is ALL about the dollars. Cuts, lack of service or comfort is secondary. Add another row and have say 20 extra paying passengers is cash. EXCEPT the public outcry this time has made them reconsider.
Thought of the day
I need a vacation two times a year of 6 months.
January 9th
“Mercury Forecast Edmonton -4 degrees, Calgary – 0 degrees, Mesa 15 degrees”
I was working on fixing up the information as far as hosting, tee times, golfing partners etc this am. I will say this, to manage this golf group of about 15 people from a distance is away harder than managing three distribution centers with 100 plus staff. Different times different circumstances but funny how it is difficult. Simple communication and taking ownership just makes things much easier . I am missing one tee time as of this morning that hopefully with a ** ACTION REQUIRED** email will fix it up. It makes me smile as these guys were all experienced professionals and business owners. Age ?
I was very fortunate to have KEY individuals in each location that were my go to guys. In my Lethbridge warehouse after Dick left Rob McDonald helped me tremendously, I was comfortable in his decisions and his control of things. In my Kelowna warehouse between Tom Daniels and Earle Pollock I didn’t have to worry about much. Emails, phone calls and a personal visit every two weeks the operations grew substantially. In our Calgary warehouse with Ed Buhnai, Arnie Henning and Blair/Corey Prentice I could leave to visit customers, trade shows and other warehouses knowing things were good hands.
We went to the bank to pick up a whack of USD cash to bring with us. Stopped at Safeway and visited the new Tim’s in Cranston. Friendly staff, hard working, newbies though but the one thing that stood out was the entire staff of about 10 that I could see where all East Indian. I want every individual that starts a business to succeed but just found it odd it was this way. These franchises are worth about 600K to 1M to start up. It is a biased I may have but in my experience the cleanliness of stores that are ethnic owned sometimes is less than desired. Time will tell.
There are a lot of crazy things happening in the world right now. I won’t get into them but every country in the world is in chaos including our Canada and Alberta. World market crash or WWIII coming.
THREE MORE DAYS UNTIL SUN, WARMTH, FUN AND EXCERISE.
Looking forward to sitting outside on the deck eating supper, playing golf, and visiting with friends. Which picture would you pick to be at.
Have I said 3 more days. LOL
While both pictures are pretty I much prefer the sunny one. I can wear sandals and shorts compared to 10 layers of clothes.
Thought of the Day
Travel as money returns , time doesn’t
January 10th-11th
Lots going on which is nice. Lots of hockey games.
TWO MORE DAYS BEFORE WE LEAVE TO THE SUN
Ok to remember everything we did.
We went over to Jeff & Wendy’s for a game night, supper, and get together. They made a pasta dish that is worthy of an award and if any restaurant would be a hit. It is a variation of Tuscan Chicken Pasta or Marry Me Pasta Chicken. Too be honest I was never an advocate of mixing chicken with pasta as I believe pasta needs a strong tomato sauce with beef wither it be in the sauce, sausage or meatball. I have changed my mind as this recipe was a 10 out 10 and I will try the odd chicken and pasta dish when out for SUPPER. One more time. Breakfast, Dinner/lunch , Supper/dinner is the correct way . Even in the bible they said Last Supper not dinner so get it right. An awesome meal.
We learned two new and very fun games tonight. I love the directions from Wendy.” I can’t tell you guys all of the strategy or you might win” The first game/games we played was Swoop, which we knew of as Sweep but with a Swoop had a Saskatchewan influence. A fun game with about 8 games within the game. I played very well but bad luck just kept happening. It ended up I lost. I finished in last place.
Like a Phoenix from the ashes I rose. The second game was called 7 up/7 down. I loved this game. Out of pure resolve, determination and perseverance after getting kicked in our first round of games i rose to the top. Like the creme de la creme. Win !
Cold frosted glasses with cold beer can not be beat.
Wendy is walking pretty good and hopefully both Jeff and her of will be ready for spring.
Up early in the morning and headed to Edmonton. The roads and highway were perfectly dry until Nisku.
Wow did Edmonton get the snow. Piles of snow 5ft high around driveways.
The parking lot luckily at the Misericordia Hospital had spots for us. Found Mom’s new room hitting the place around noon.
There are some amazing nurses in the world but I believe in todays world there are some horrible ones, more now than ever. A nurse typically goes into the industry because they are a caring kind person wanting to help others. From the incidences that have happened with Mom and what we even witnessed ourselves it is more prominent than thought. First let me say this has NOTHING to do with the UCP not funding. It has everything to do with personal commitment to your job. Mom has been in the hospital since Dec 26th so lets say 15 days. She has had two days of physical therapy. Not acceptable. They leave these patients on a commode for hours before helping them. It is not right. In the entire day we were visiting, Mom had ONE check or visit by a nurse or attendant. It is not logical to tie up a bed in a hospital especially if you are not going to provide the care needed and have less than desired performing staff. Move her to a place like the Glenrose to rehabilitate as every day she is not attended to at 93 yrs old is a huge detriment. Jackie didn’t think her supper was bad but I would not have eaten a single bite as Mom refused to. Hospital food will never be great but ta least make it decent. RICE . Who give rice to a person wanting to get their strength back. Mushy veggies and a piece of salmon. I could live with the fish but if feeling the least bit ill I would have kept it covered not to puke. Jackie was great in asking and receiving an Ensure for her so at least she would have it and a small chocolate pudding.
I do have say the one check we witnessed that nurse was excellent. She brought in Mom’s info on a computer and went thru it. Good on her. BUT all it did is highlight to us they do not have a plan whatso ever. Disappointing.
It is a shame to say but Dad received very very poor care in the hospital also. It is like a person turns 90 yrs old and the hospital staff stop trying to help them. Ageism at it’s finest as Dad died due to lack of care and now Mom needs help to get past this major hiccup or the same thing is going to happen. She is on a steep decline .
My Aunt Florence Dickson died today. I believe she was 93 yrs old also. It makes you think about things. Of the 14 Aunts and Uncles on the Dickson side I have 3 Aunts left. Aunt Jean at 88 yrs old and Aunt Dorothy at 87 years old ( original Dicksons) and Aunt Connie ( guess 80 yrs old) who was married to Uncle George. On my Dads side there is no one left. All 14 of the Uncle and Aunts have passed including the original Willards and their spouses have passed. I do have a whack of cousins and second cousins numbering I would guess over 200 now with 3/4’s of them living in the Edson area. It turns out she was 91 yrs old and had 20 great children. That is how fast the Dickson clan grows.
We squeezed in a visit with Keith & Jenny. He has the best cleaned driveway in the area. The road going to his place requires a 4 x 4 it is so rough and bumpy. As I said the amount of snow Edmonton got was amazing. 5 ft high piles on the sides of driveways.
I often say my middle name is Crib. For good reason as I am fairly lucky at crib. The first game Keith & I killed the girls almost skunking them. The second game the girls luckily just pulled off a win. The next game right down to the wire with us guys finishing strong. Larry Crib Willard. Two to one for the guys.
Jenny had a brilliant idea. We ordered two orders of Smoky Mountain Spaghetti from Boston Pizza . That is over two pounds. So for 4 people it is perfect. Love the cheese, the sauce and especially the large balls.
We got home about 12:30 am. Used more gas than normal as the wind was strong. Close to 1000rpm over normal uses up gas. Dirty truck again with the Edmonton wet roads.
At noon today we were getting together at Justin & Danielle new place. A great older neighborhood. Larger lots, a variety of home styles not all cookie cutter like a new one and with large trees. Theirs is a standard bungalow from the 1960’s era. The first impression is awesome as they really modernized the exterior. First impressions are everything but the continuous of the renovation inside and the basement was awesome. I have been in a lot of homes over the years, new and reno and this home was done up right. I would give it a 10 out 10 in everything from design, materials and construction especially the attention to detail. I enjoy checking out workmanship and have an eye and I only found three things that were so minor most would not notice.
Beautiful home.
KFC today which for a once in awhile meal is always delicious.
Their dog Indy is a wonderful dog. Still a puppy like so a little rambunctious but a sweet dog. Loves people and kissing them with the softest fur. Beautiful looking dog.
A nice visit with Alan, MaryAnn, Danielle, Justin, Audrey and a short visit with Corey, Victoria and Jackson as they dropped in for bit.
Thought of the Day
Measure twice, panic once.
December 12th-13th
“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 6 degrees, Calgary 11 degrees, Mesa 22 degrees”
ONE DAY BEFORE WE HEAD SOUTH TO GREEN GRASS
The Chinook winds sure does warm up the temperature fast.
I few smaller things to get ready today for our departure. Our “independent uber” is booked for pickup at Sky Harbor.
I have the golfing mostly organized but it like pulling teeth on communication and action for the group being remote.
I know first thing to get done will be to remove the Christmas lights and decor and trim the trees.
MY RANT
Just a little rant as I wait to go back to Phoenix. As you know I believe Statins will go down in history as the biggest scam ever played on humans, all in the name of profits. It will be in the history books along with Lobotomy’s ( 50,000 in the USA alone before banned) and Thalidomide ( 10,000 plus birth defects) plus many other ” safe” ” good for you drugs”. The global Statin market is expected to be in 2025 at 16.6 billion dollars.
Every review and change to lower the qualifications brings in billions. A 17% decrease in the cholesterol level just to get more people on them and look at the results below.
I bring this up as I was surprised my brother is still on them and the doctor wanted Mom to go them at 93 yrs old while in the hospital.
I could go on and on where I believe we have this all wrong but to make it easier to understand three statements and charts. I will USA as it easier to find info on
In 1987 the leading cause of death when Statins hit the market:
- Heart disease: The greatest contributor to U.S. mortality.
- Cancer: The second leading cause of death.
- Stroke: A significant contributor to mortality.
In 2025 leading cause of death in the USA
In 2025, the leading causes of death in the USA are heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries, reflecting ongoing public health challenges and demographic trends.
Top Causes of Death
- Heart Disease: Remains the leading cause of death, accounting for approximately 683,037 deaths. This represents about 22% of all deaths in the United States. Factors contributing to heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity. 2
- Cancer: The second leading cause, with around 619,812 deaths. The incidence of cancer continues to rise, influenced by factors such as smoking, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. 2
I could give a lot of information but I think it should make anyone think about the effectiveness of the pill. Why after a supposedly wonderful pill has heart disease not changed.
Long story short we are not getting to the root cause.
Here is the kicker:
In 1987 the USA had 42,000 deaths from dementia
In 2025 the USA had 7.2 million living with dementia
Introduce a pill in 1987 to reduce heart disease with very little dementia and now in 2025 after mass prescriptions and we have an epidemic of dementia.
Food for thought:
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like molecule widely known for its association with heart health, but its role in the brain is crucial. The brain is the most cholesterol-rich organ, containing up to 25% of the body’s total cholesterol despite making up only about 2% of the total body weight.
It is all about the MONEY and the ONLY people that should be on a Statin are people that have had a heart incident.
Check out your own family members. If you have someone you know with Dementia ask if they are on a Statin. Odds are they are. My Mom & Dad both refused Statins and Dad was 90 and Mom is 93 almost 94 and both of strong good minds. Coincidental ?
As with everything each of us has to make up our own minds what is best for us. In the worst case scenario dying of a heart attack at 89 years old with a sound mind is much better then dying of dementia at 95 yrs old.
But that is just me !
We met Victoria at the dog park today and Daisy along with Hazel had a great run. Little Daisy is a fireball of energy in a big field as long as a dog will chase her, It is so funny to watch.
All done fixing up everything and ready to go. Snowbird arrival
Today is the anniversary date of our son in law Corey’s accident. One of the worst I have seen. The truck literally was bent in half and destroyed. Corey is extremely lucky to have survived it but he has injuries that will affect him his entire life. Broken neck, spline removed, intestines removed plus many other major injuries. Other than a jaw/face pain that is constant he is doing well. Lucky for Corey but very lucky for Tor, and us to have him here with us. Any vehicle is dangerous but when you add ice to the equation it can be easily deadly.
Everything done we drove over to Victoria’s place and picked her up and then Jackson and headed to the airport. We arrived at the check in gate 6 minutes before allowed time even after having Daisy do her business in the doggie area. I like to be early for a couple of reasons. First of all that is me and second it removes the chances of being late with long lines at the security or immigration area. You also can find your gate or check if it has been changed.
The Calgary airport was empty in the International terminal. We were second in line for check in and received a very friendly Westjet agent. Got that done fast and headed to security, We were literally the only two in security and experienced very friendly agents. Different ideas once again. This time shoes off, watch was ok to stay on, liquids not separate or removed so fairly normal and simple. Jackie with dog and I thru separate machines.
Then off the custom officer line. No one. We walked straight up to the counter with again a very friendly agent. Two minutes with a no smile picture and we are heading into the main terminal to find our gate.
Nice area right close to our gate had a dog relief area and couches. I whipped to Opa! for supper. These Pita’s are filling and are quite good.
Off to enter the plane. We had Row 5 which according to the floor plan due to the bulkhead was supposed to have a little more leg room and for Daisy is needed. We had plenty of room and at 6 ‘3″ in most incidences my knees are against the back of the seat in front of me but I had at least 6 inches to spare. We also had no one in our row so we were able to put Daisy sideways in her own seat area. In fact the flight attendant suggested it.
This trip we experienced so many nice pleasant professional it was amazing. The two flight attendants we had were so friendly. It felt like we were on a flight before Onex bought them. Very good experience and good on Westjet especially since the social media has negativity about them.
To add to our perfect trip we left and arrived 20 minutes early.
The Phoenix airport for only the second time ever was dead. I little longer route walking this time as the baggage entrance was closed and we had a detour.
We took Daisy to the outdoor dog park and she was in heaven with the warmth. We walked to door #5 and I texted my pick up guy. Our guy we have used the last few times was busy so he recommended a new one and the new guy was organized, responsive and right on time. Saves a lot of money compared to a taxi.
We arrived close to midnight. I used a flashlight turn on the hot water heater and water then jumped into bed.
What a perfect sleep. It was 60 degrees when we woke up, the room was black dark and no noise. Plus a new mattress with a raised front, No dreams, Daisy not moving as she was tired just made for a wonderful sleep.
Daisy and Jackie happily took off for their walk, and meet and greet with her doggie buddies.
I salvaged together a breakfast , watched the news and then started.
First on the agenda was taking down our Christmas lights. Lots to take down and put away. Jackie helped me on her return. Removed the tree net lights from the tree, took down the icicles and red light from the patio and took down the eave lights from the front. Put all of the lights in a storage box. Removed the spot lights from both Noel signs and packed up the lights, and remaining cords.
While in the Christmas mood we moved to take down, lucky for us, only three houses that still had Christmas lights up.
The trees grew quite a bit so trimmed them all up and picked up and blew all of the debris off the roadway.
Unwrapped the golf cart and charged it up.
Sprayed all of the weeds. With the rain and heat they grew fast.
Took apart the BBQ and cleaned the grill and plates all ready for a good cooked meal.
Jackie went for groceries and I carried on fixing things up.
We finished about 4 o’clock and a rarity for me but I felt tired. Between the heat and the work.
I talked to my Mom today in the hospital. It is like being caught between a rock and hard place. The care she is getting at the Misericordia Hospital is dismal, disappointing, frustrating and unbelievable. One could say almost criminal or close to inhumane. When you have staff members saying “Why did you live you so long ” or ” I am not your slave” people need to be fired and the corporation held accountable. No one should have to wait over an hour after pushing the button to get help to go to the bathroom. Part of human dignity is removed. While she in their care there is very little we can do but try to work with them and around them. Fingers crossed they get her out of there asap to a hospital that cares. Perhaps staff that cares as I am sure it is not everyone there. As I said ageism at is finest. I really didn’t think it was prevalent but it is for sure happening. Compounded with the nurses lack of empathy and work ethic is older people’s demands and expectations.
Legault quitting and the separatist party winning the next election we may have an easier way to fix the equalization payment issue.
A nice supper and resting on the couch our first day back done.
Thought of the Day
Why is the Casino parking free yet I have to pay at the Emergency at the hospital.?
January 15th
“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 3 degrees, Calgary 5 degrees, Mesa 27 degrees”
A busy day ahead for Jackie. 8:30 am to 9:30am dog walk, 11am to 2pm golfing, 3pm concert chair set up, 7pm to 9 pm Neil Diamond concert.
My schedule is a little less hectic with just catching up and organizing things. Daisy’s schedule is walk, rest, sleep eat and drink.
Another wonderful sleep. You work and move all day you sleep well. I thought my muscles especially back and arms with the tree trimming would be a little painful but I feel good, Must be the dry desert heat.
I started watching the Global News this morning then turned off my VPN and moved back to ABC News. Global still is hung up on Westjet seats. Making a mole hill out of an ant hill is nuts. Find something worthwhile to talk about.
I had to update my VPN which took a bit as it couldn’t find my Toronto IP address for bit.
I award 800 block the street with the worst drivers.
Talking to our neighbor across the street, His golf cart was gone. A lady was driving down our street and smashed into his cart parked on his lot and damaged it fairly heavily. I will say it one more time. A golf cart ( 15 mph max) drove into a parked golf cart on someone’s lot. How does that happen ?
About a year ago another lady stepped on the gas instead of the brake crossed the main road ( lucky not get killed) and smacked right into a house causing a lot of damage. We were sitting on our patio and heard the huge bang.
This fall another lady on our block took the turn too tight in her car and hit the yellow steel pillars to protect the corner. I would guess 5k damage to her car,
I keep my eyes wide open now and walk facing the traffic. lol
The Neil Diamond Tribute was a good seller. We set up 734 chairs for tonight’s concert. That is one of the larger ones as they have been running 500 and 600 people. The group is pretty organized so doesn’t take us that long.
It was a great concert. The guy was a great singer and even looked like Neil. He put on a great show and never took one break. Played song after song. Neil has a lot of songs to choose from and this guy made sure to play every hit and tell a story or two between the songs about Neil.
We get free concert tickets for volunteering to set up and take down the chairs. Tonight for some reason about 3 or 4 guys not part of our group just pitched in and made it a much easier job. Thanks
Our team leader played in two ball game this morning and did the set up. Good on him.
20 degrees at 9:30 coming home. I was careful when I hit 800 block you never know who is out driving.
Jackie walked 21,000 steps today. That is pretty good.
My first golf game in a month tomorrow so hopefully it will be a good one. Muscles are sore but manageable and if not I know where i have good pills.
I think Jackie also has her first yoga class.
Thought of the Day
Life is like riding a bicycle, to keep your balance you have to keep moving
I normally don’t expand on my thought of the day but this one is relative to today. Jackie and I have always said motion is lotion, well Jackie mostly. If you do not keep moving thru pain, if you don’t keep moving by lack of motivation you are slowly killing yourself. My Mom if she doesn’t work very hard to move she will slowly lose her ability to so. So many people sit on couches or chairs, don’t take the stairs, watch Tv for hours, instead of doing anything and building or at least maintaining muscle. I know myself one week of couch potato and you can feel the difference. I measure my stamina in our condo by how fast I can climb the three stories of stairs and my breathing impact.
As I have said numerous times before that is why I believe snowbirds on a whole live longer as we are doing something physical constantly and if at home would struggle with what to do. Motion is Lotion.
Here is the link to my Aunt Florence’s Obituary. She was amazing considering what she endured as a young women. They lived on a homestead farm where you have to clear the land, and manage it. There first home was like a grain shed and it appeared after every kid or so they would add on another addition. It was a hard life without amenities and hours away from stores and hospitals. There is no way a young lady of todays world would survive the life of a homestead farm wife as they lived. They had to live off the land. Cows, chickens, pigs, hunting, and gardening was there source of food and income along with any crops. I can’t imagine it. My cousins Vern, Ron, Kenny, Debbie, Dale, Duane and Barb all turned out to be great human beings. Our Christmas gatherings were something to behold.
https://www.foothillsmemorialchapel.com/obituary/Florence-Dickson
Larry & Jackie Willard's Retirement Adventure 