May 1st-4th

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

It took until May this year to achieve springtime temperatures. Now that it has heated up the outside will start to to bother me. I am running out of time to ready for the May Long and even our lot as they have rule sin place to be neat and tidy and not covered up by the end of the long week end. I assure you I most likely have at least 30 bags of leaves to pick up and haul away.

The elephant in the room.

The Oilers lost. I am a Flames fan first but support the Oilers anytime when they are our playoff team. It was such a poor performance though which was the shocking thing. The lack of effort was unbelievable. Even the announcers were stating where is the drive. Most know I dislike McDavid. He is one of the best players in the league today without a doubt, but he has zero charisma, no personality, i think perhaps even lower on the intelligence scale, no class and is self absorbed. His performance once again dismal. I did like his interview when he stated all year we were a average team with high expectation which always results in disappointment. So true. Yet when it mattered Leon and Connor DID NOT SHOW up.

I see some pretty big changes happening over the summer for them. New coach, new GM ,new goalie and Nurse with a fresh start. The Ducks were fun to watch.

I will miss the Oilers in the playoffs as they made hockey fun to watch. Now we have to redirect our attention to the Habs. We need Montreal to win.

The weather for yesterday and today just beautiful. Finally spring.

Having said that I still am useless. I can not walk or stand any length of time before reverting back to paying down with a ice pack.

Spring fever- it is a thing. The birds and animals get frisky as do the humans. The teenagers with their over active hormones start acting all different. Less clothes, macho clothes, perfumes. flirting and raised attention. I love it when I was a younger. That first ride in my car in the spring time, the drive in the country, warmth was all just fun.

The lot across from us at Oasis just sold. Luckily for us it is friends of our next door neighbor which relayed the info about using a portion of the lot to allow us to easily exit and enter with our motorhome. I hope they told them that I always return the leaves from it back to the lot after cleaning it up. LOL It has a huge popular tree which dumps loads of leaves and those sticky things.

OK tomorrow will be 2 weeks from surgery. I am SHOCKED it took that long to recover. I was just starting to get to a good point when I started to get a gout session. Great. I stopped my opioids and took my gout pills. I woke up this morning and my gout is under control about 75 % gone and my pain and swelling considerable less. I am sure the inflammation control of the gout pill helped tremendously with my surgery after affects.

I can walk, sit, within my pain tolerance which is fantastic. I am letting this be my day transition before semi normalcy. I can feel the stitches being pulled apart if I do anything to active. Hallelujah.

Today also is one of my good friends birthday hitting a ripe old age in the mid 70s now. Fred Keys a man of many talents hits that ripe old age in prime shape. The odd little hiccup but other than that pretty good. Like everyone this year the spring is long coming and he wants it to get going so he can get going on the garden and a lot.

Loads of fun over the years. We have known Fred since 1983 , we were neighbors in St Albert for 8 years, we both lived in Calgary for a few years and we were snowbirds at Viewpoint together for 17 years.

Well we are supporting the Montreal Canadians ( Habs) as our only Canadian Team left. One of the original six teams. Unfortunately they play the Buffalo Sabres the team I would like to see win. So torn between the two.

We had Audrey over for supper that Jackie made that was delicious A pork roast, mashed potatoes and gravy, carrots and with salad, was delicious.

Daisy is so funny when company comes over as she seats beside them and garners attention. All day long Daisy kept running out and in of the patio.

MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU. May 4th already.

It is amazing how a shift happens. I am feeling awesome and can walk with out any pain. I feel the stitches pulling apart when I sit but other than that feeling great. I was going out to the lot today and then checked the weather, thought I had a dentist appt but was incorrect and decided to post pone for another day.

So on to getting other things done. Checked my Oiler lotto and sure enough, I am sure when you order a ticket the postal code determines if a purchase with a chance to win. I will not be ordering anymore. Each time the winning tickets have started with a B and each time my ticket starts with a C. Never mind the number difference but not even in the same sequence. I do not trust their system as it appears quite obvious to me. I went back over the year a bit and not one C winner. I guarantee B and A tickets were all local people.

Sent out the final notice for our May Long Weekend. Big grouping this year with over 31 adults and up to 11 or more kids. I am looking forward to our Brunchfast this year. First time for such an event. We have had some amazing potlucks with Italian, Irish, Chili contest, English, Bar Food, Greek, Mexican, Chinese themes over the years . So a breakfast theme will be good to see what people offer.

Last years Caesars ! I can tell by the glass this one was created by Keith which is a good maker of Canada’s drink.

BMO still is dumb. I gave the lady one week to accomplish a task. I expected an email or call this morning but no go. So I sent another email. I will phone tomorrow as I am not confident of a return and call the branch manager.

Booked an appointment for the motorhome for a oil change. I was torn where to go. Some of my go to places have been letting me down. I had a great experience at Kal Tire for both the Flex and Jeep so I thought I would give them a call. I expected a rejection at my location due to sizing. The phone rings and a young lady answers and I ask my questions on availability etc. She states she will transfer me. A young guy named VP answers and we go thru needs, wants etc and they have two left which is awesome. He puts them on hold for me until next week. After my call I thought I will get the oil changed and service at the same time as new tires so I phone back. Then the fun starts. A young guy answers and I ask him to do a addon. He can’t find any record of anything. He says this location can’t do tires that size. Naturally I say impossible as I have it booked. Nope ! He then states he has no young ladies answering his phones. I ask for the Kal truck center number to check with them. I phone the given number and this guy sees a work order under my name but can’t give me number, store location and any info and states he used to be the truck center. So another number and person to talk to. Low & behold finally a answer to the Kal Tire give me the run around scenario. I am booked into the Kal Tire Fleet center on 52 st. Wow ! what a circus. I am not sure of my decision after that but we will see. I can sit and smile about it but it was a very confusing circle of events.

Thought of the Day

If you can’t convince them, confuse them !

May 5th

” Mercury Forecast Edmonton 13 degrees, Calgary 12 degrees, Mesa 25 degrees “

Finally the temperatures are starting to be like spring which took long enough. Today was my test day to see how I’m doing so I decided I’m going to whip to the store to pick up some bleach and distilled water so we can start getting the motorhome ready.

A old guy passed me in the Sobeys aisle I can’t believe it. I am shocked how this surgery took so long to recover from and still not what I would consider to be normal. I am adamant that I am going out to the motorhome tomorrow to get as much done as I can even though I struggle getting up and down or sitting but we’ll see what happens.

My BMO girl got back to me with an email today which sort of surprised me but nice that she did. Unfortunately she lied and I hate that so now we have to go back to harassing her. The level of incompetence is unbelievable. It is like companies have asked employees to shut their brains off and they’re being like robots saying things that aren’t true and hoping that people will just go away. I won’t. All I want is the truth and facts ! If you screwed up fine I can take that but don’t try to avoid confrontation and play ignorance. One good thing about them blatantly lying is I have it on record and can use it against them.

Nice that the sun is is out and tomorrow is hitting 23 degrees.

Jeep battery which is only 3 years old stone dead. I tried boosting but it was too dead for my quick jump start to do anything. So I started to charge it. It was dead and read LO which means it may not come back. As soon as the charger built up enough charge I discovered the issue. The interior light was left on. The Jeep does not have the fancy auto protect systems that kills load after a few minutes. The battery could have been dead for a couple of weeks which destroys a battery. I have 3 years left on the AMA warranty if needed. I am pretty sure it will require a new one. You just cant kill a lead acid battery. In fact they say anything less than 50% hurts them long term. Shit happens !

We have lived here for 19 years now. Lots of brakes squealing, horn blasting but today only the second accident we have seen and not at the spot that traditionally causes issues. Young kids and judgement.

Jackie has been making fun of me as since my operation I have worn this shirt which is dress sized, I can not believe it used to fit me. I wear it as it is so comfortable and loose fitting . Look how long it is.

Thought of the Day

I don’t want to look thin I want to look like i can kick your butt. Big difference.

After losing almost 50 pounds and keeping it off for 12 years now I cant really say that but I do like the feeling of wearing clothes that do look good. Not the above look but you know.

May 6th-7th

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 23 degrees, Calgary 21 degrees, Mesa 34 degrees”

Perfect spring weather. I whipped out to the lot and worked until 4 pm. To say I was tired is an understatement. I hooked up the charger to bring back my batteries, I keep a Canadian Tire 2 amp tender charger on this battery all winter and it was at 70% when I went to charge it. This battery is now 12 years old and works just like brand new. Proof how important care is.

While the battery was being charged I started to summerize. The amount of valves and bypasses drives me nuts. I fill my hose with bleach and fill the fresh water tank and drain it two or three times. I run all of the taps to clear them of bleach and antifreeze.

Check all of tires pressure, WD 40 the step hinges, and put a new water filter in. I used last years anode rod as it was still good but it is made of material that I do not prefer. I can.t find a magnesium one anymore my size.

One hiccup as the taps were running I notice water running out of the slide. The bathroom sink overfilled. I removed the P trap and it was not plugged. I don’t have a air valve under the sink to check. So a air lock, plugged roof vent or just trapped air. I hate that water over run. I believe it was a air lock which hopefully is gone now. I wasn’t climbing on the roof and if leaves etc had plugged the air vent, I hoped the highway run would dislodge them.

First day I couldn’t hook up my battery correct as the post threads were stripped. A quick stop to CDN Tire all set for a perfect hookup.

I got home around 4 pm and Jeff & Wendy phoned see if we wanted to meet them after golf at McKenzie Meadows. Now i was tired but this would be our first outing in three weeks so I said yes This was Wendy’s first game after hip replacement so good on her. And according to the score card that hip must really rotate as she broke 100. That is fantastic.

They did not have the full menu but what we all ordered was great. Well Jeffs weird quesadilla special did not look good but he liked it.

It was a nice outing, great to see them again, great to see Jeff and now Wendy out golfing and to have a cushioned seat at the restaurant was welcomed.

Slept pretty well.

Second day everything else, More treatment, hose connection and testing everything. Started up the stove to fill the propane lines. Then worked on the Hot Water heater. First time starting it it takes numerous attempts. I cheat and heat the ignitor with a BBQ lighter but could not find one that worked. LOL All good as it finally lit and starting blasting fire.

All of the tires were set at 90 pounds, oil was at proper level, hydraulic steering oil at min but still fine but I may get that touched up. Belts all good, WW fluid full and and antifreeze all good.

Removed the tire covers, removed the windshield covers and put everything away. I cleaned up my mouse killer inside and made sure nothing was going to fly around.

To get out of our spot I have to back up half way up the block as people have let the trees grow and can scratch the sides. So backing up the 100 yards or so I see in my mirror a guy with a golf cart. He jumps out and is directing me. Nice gesture but I have done this so many times it is like driving forward. This time though a neighbor parked her truck right where I turn so i had to go the opposite way. I did have to make one forward motion to correct my angle. Good thing for my spotter. LOL

Headed home. Very tired after a 6 hour day again. I headed to the Shell close to us. First gas station where their canopy is below regulation height. Good thing it is is in big lettering. It is 3.6 meters which is 11ft 9 inches. To the top of my ac unit is 12ft 6in. I checked and the ” normal ” height is supposed to be 13 to 18 ft. I was happy I checked but sad as I could not use my AMA discount or Scene points. I whipped to Flying J and filled and was happy to fill it for under $500 bucks and propane under $20.

Came home and pulled up to the front door to unhook the Jeep as the street was full. I got it all unhooked and then my tow bar tool was missing, I searched everywhere and could not find it. I didn’t want to move anything. I was DEAD tired and phoned Jackie to help. Luckily we found it and I drove the motorhome to the street but down a block and Jackie came and picked me up.

Between the feeling of stitches opening, the pain when bending up and down I was done.

Jackie made us a unbelievable supper tonight which is much appreciated . Air fried Garlic Toast, angel hair pasta and amazing salad. Cant go wrong.

Now to lay back , lay down and rest. I am shocked the drain and the pain. Getting it done though.

First time in a long long time I missed the news.

Thought of the Day

I am not tired. Just in energy saving mode.

May 8th-9th

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 19 degrees, Calgary 21 degrees, Mesa 37 degrees”

First thing this morning I made another call and had to leave a message with the Branch Manager at BMO. I sent another email to my lady I have being dealing with. Both now are at the point of not wanting to talk to me. LOL I am sort of enjoying this.

So I decided to contact the BMO complaint call center. That was a waste of time as after the discussion I knew I wasnt getting anywhere as it was kept being thrown back to the branch, Finally a moment and “Jackie” new BMO girl said she would contact the branch involved. Funny as no more than hour later I receive and email from my BMO lady ” There is no signature on this type of request in the system. She finally has agreed they do not know what has happened. To allow a security box to be closed or drilled without any paperwork or digital record is a huge policy and procedure deviation and is in my mind unforgiveable and some one should be held accountable. The manager wont return my calls so he is out for bit until corporate gets involved.

So my next step is contacting the complaint department to complain that the check system for complaints isn’t working if i am just passed back. I expect an investigation involving the manager and corporate to determine the error and what my recourse is. The bank has to accept some responsibility. It is pretty sad when you can’t trust a bank to hold a safety deposit box. I would not want money in that branch.

So corporate complaint department do better. You will hear from again on Monday. LOL

Having a last name starting with W does not work for us concerning vehicle registration. December is our month and we are not here a lot of the time. So I went to AMA today and registered the motorhome. I could use the auto registration system but then we would need Victoria to send the cards in the mail to us in Arizona. I do not like to bug people that way.

The AMA lady and I had a good laugh when she suggested I legally change my name. She then added a $400 price tag to do it. It was funny !

I cleaned out the motorhome, parked it out front and used our wagon to bring in the duvet and towels to wash. Jackie is going to give the interior and flooring a good cleaning. Monday am in for a oil change and service. Just hit the 60K mileage mark recently so most things are like brand new.

Up this morning and Jackie spent the better part of the day cleaning. She vacuumed the carpets, wiped the floors, cleaned the windows, vacuumed the vents, plus curtains and furniture. I removed the fan screens and washed and cleaned them. Put new batteries in our flashlights. I put new batteries in the smoke detector but it would not work. Past it’s prime. So I whipped to Depot to get a new one.

Wow the busiest I have EVER seen the Depot. Flowers, dirt and people just buying like mad. You get a large parking lot full of old women and men trying to park and get out it becomes comedy central. Numerous back and forth as they can’t judge distance, not able to see upcoming traffic as their necks don’t turn and just poor driving skills in a small spot. Give me 140km per hour on a 8 lane highway any day versus a parking lot. Just walking behind these people to the store is dangerous.

I installed my new smoke detector.

I was prepared this year. I preplanned Jackie’s Mother’s Day . A little easier in one way and a lot harder in another way for this years Mothers day. I dislike the fact I do not have a Mom around anymore but like the fact of not feeling guilted into a gift or the trip up north. All self induced feelings only. Minor sacrifice on my part but this years Mothers Day is different. I have always said Jackie is not my Mother so I should not have to do anything but she is the Mother of my children.

I love reheated food in the Air Fryer versus microwave. So a repeat supper that was just as good.

Thought of the Day

There is no Wifi when camping but you will find no better connection.

May 10th

” Mercury Forecast Edmonton 25 degrees, Calgary 23 degrees, Mesa 40 degrees”

Happy Heavenly Mothers Day !! Mom Ruth Willard 1932-2026

Here are a few pics of Mothers in our immediate family.

Here is hoping everyone of these Mother’s experiences a wonderful day.

This Mother’s Day feels different. Quieter. Heavier. It’s the first one without Mom here—at least not here in the way she always was. This year, she celebrates in heaven, and those of us still on this side of things are left holding the memories that shaped us.

And what memories they are.

My Mom wasn’t just a mother—she was a force. A tough farm girl with a soft heart, the kind of woman who could stand her ground against a police chief one day protecting her innocent child, and make a special allergy‑friendly meal the next. She lived almost 94 years, and she filled every one of them with purpose, love, and a fierce devotion to her family.

She was the first one there when someone was hurt. The one who made sure I had meals I could eat when I was allergic to everything. The one who made each child feel like the favorite— being the first to ride in the new car, the new go‑kart, the new ski‑doo. She didn’t just attend concerts and plays; she showed up for every one, whether it was her kids or her grandkids on stage.

And oh, how she loved those grandkids. Camping trips. Games. Laughter. Making sure each one felt seen, valued, and special.

She was protective in all the right ways. When a loud, demanding Grade 2 teacher made life stressful, she marched in and handled it. When a police officer unfairly targeted me, she wrote straight to the Chief of Police. She didn’t bluff. She didn’t hesitate. She fought for her kids with the quiet confidence of someone who knew exactly who she was.

But she also knew when to step back. Like the day I got into a wrestling match with the neighbor kid—same age, but he was 20 pounds heavier. She watched from the window, arms crossed, assessing. Later she said, “It looked like two bulls out there. No one was getting hurt. You needed to learn to defend yourself.” She wasn’t wrong… except maybe about the black eye I ended up getting.

Encouragement was her love language. A dollar for every A or H on the report card. I made a fortune.

She stayed independent longer than most—camping at 85, still determined, still strong. It wasn’t until the TIAs came that life slowed her down. Those last years were hard, but they didn’t erase who she was. They never could.

Because mothers like her don’t fade. They leave echoes—warm, stubborn, comforting echoes that stay with you long after they’re gone.

So yes, this Mother’s Day is different. There’s an empty space where she used to be. But there’s also a lifetime of moments that prove she never really left.

She’s in the courage she taught me.
She’s in the kindness she modeled.
She’s in the stories our family will tell for generations.
She’s in the strength she built into me without even noticing.

She furiously wanted to stay independent and tried so hard not to be a ” burden: on anyone until the last couple of years when she had to have help. To me that is impressive and made her special. Darlene spent a lot of time helping Mom that last couple of years only because Mom finally wasn’t able to do things herself. She tried so hard to remain independent.

And today, as I remember her, I honor her in the most powerful way possible—by carrying her forward.

I do plan to hook up the Jeep and have the unit ready for a early Mon morning escape as the road ways are being swept on Monday.

25 degree temperatures this week and then the long weekend. No rain or snow so no complaints, BUT 17, 11, 14, 14 degrees which is on the cold side. Better bring extra wood and thick socks. Only good thing is it keeps the Caesars cold. Bad thing people will be using up a lot of propane to stay warm. Having said all of that it is downright balmy compared to some years and we still have time for a wind shift and change.

It was a low key but nice Mother’s Day. Jackie & I picked up Audrey and stopped by Tim’s and had a picnic at Fish Creek Park. It was a nice warm calm day hitting 22 degrees and the park was quite busy. Only negative thing was the amount of stickies from the poplar trees, Daisy’s paws and hair was covered. Our blanket was covered. It was nice to sit and talk and people watch. A professional photographer asks us if she can take a picture of Daisy. I guess she loved Daisy’s looks. I should have asked for an appearance fee. It could be her 5 minutes of fame.

We bought a set of blue tooth headphones for Audrey as a Mother’s day gift. She is in a habit of using closed caption to watch TV as she is very hard of hearing. It is so much better, and more accurate, if you hear what is going on. It keeps you brain active and your listening skills better even when you are not wearing the headset. We rea hoping she will love these as they should work perfect.

We headed home and had another nice visit. We watched some golf, some hockey and talked. For supper we cheated and had A & W which everyone liked.

So as I said a low key but nice Mother’s Day which hopefully Audrey and Jackie enjoyed. I know I liked the park picnic.

One quick observation. People have to keep moving as mobility issues creep up on you and before you know it, you can not walk or get around even in your own home. I think even a 50 yr old if they do not move everyday for a long period and build up not only muscles but stamina can notice a huge difference in their mobility after a short period of inactivity. It is a observation we all need to be cognizant of.

I have seen 30 yr old’s not able to climb a few flights of stairs without panting for breath as they have not being active enough. Plus activity is easier than food reduction to lose weight.

I use our condo stairs as a gauge. If I can run up the three flights without huffing I am happy. If a little bit of heavy breathing I make sure to run up and down more or faster.

I hooked up the Jeep at 7:30 am as the streets are being cleaned. It won’t happen but you need to move just in case. I see three cars not moving. I say haul them away instead of going around them with the sweepers as we need to get rid of the dirt and dust.

Thought of the Day

Nothing is really lost unless your Mother cant find it

May 11-12-13th

“Mercury Forecast Edmonton 21 degrees, Calgary 17 degrees, Mesa 41 degrees”

Looking ahead the May Long is looking a little cold. A togue and gloves will be required. good thing we have our cookshack.

Up early today and took the motorhome in for service and two new tires. It is shame that a tire that costs $800 each has to be replaced only due to a stamp date not wear, These tires have 3/4 of the thread left on them. The insurance company will not pay out a claim if a RV tire is over 10 yrs old. Mine are new in 2016 and only have about 20K on them.

Kal Tire was busy as was expected but the check in process was wonderful. I am thinking it will be in there all day.

Paid some bills, printed some paper work like our camping permits etc.

We had one truck not move for the street cleaning. They should have hauled him away as now we have a large patch of dust and stones very near to the front of our condo. They came a swept and did a good job other than moving around this guy.

Then another hour on the phone with BMO. This time I went to the top. Corporate office is now sending an email to the branch manager and clerk to contact me and resolve. Corporate says deposit boxes are branch responsibility. I am now at a place where I know nothing will be done, we will not find the contents of the box and BMO is 100 percent absolved of any responsibility. I have spent a lot of hours on the phone and emails without achieving anything. All I can say is I am thankful Mom didn’t know how poor BMO is. We will get the small RIFF closed and be gone. As I said to corporate if nothing else BMO has to look to look at their system to avoid this from happening to anyone else.

A little change of plans today. First on my agenda was a visit to my dentist. I really like this guy. He is a “normal guy” that isn’t about soaking his customers. We used to go to a guy in Chinook that was for no other word crooked. My new guy is fair, provides options and works with you on a solution. Today was a replacement of a broken silver filling. He stated the base has hair line fractures but is willing to refill and hope for the a long usage before it breaks a piece off.

It is funny as getting a filling doesn’t hurt per say but that clip they use when pressed on does. The frozen cheek and jaw feels odd after and you have to be careful of not biting your tongue.

Then off to take Daisy for her haircut. On my way back I stopped and picked up two bundles of firewood and threw them into the back of the Jeep. I then put the BBQ in the back on top of the wood. Now, I am not supposed to lift anything heavier than 10 pounds for another week or so but I need things to get done.

Back to and picked up Daisy who smelled and looked beautiful.

I then packed my clothes and loaded up the spices and alcohol and used the wagon to bring them to the motorhome. I didn’t put away my clothes as I needed to jump over the bed but got everything else done.

I do have to say that I was a little bit hurting after this. Not only wore out tired but with a pain. I am past Jackie’s break point of looking after me so I had to get up and down and grimace a bit today for supper etc. The stitches feel like they are coming apart when I bend over. My doctor failed at sewing class and I sure hope his mess stays together. I do know the feeling of them catching on my under wear is not a good feeling.

Today was also our good friend Terry’s birthday, Not any birthday but her 70th Birthday. As I have said before it shocks me we a have so many friends now in their 70’s. We have known the Keys since 1983 from St Albert.( 43 yrs) We have had some amazing times over the years. I always accept change as inevitable but we sure do miss them at Viewpoint. Terry & Fred always were the hostesses with the mostess. Many fantastic “Home Made meals” at their place and game nights. But things change.

I created a sheet with everyone’s name for the long week and we have 46 people committed to coming this year. It will be a big pot luck.

Larry & Jackie 2, Ron & Merle 2, Keith & Jenny 2, Victoria & Corey  3, Jessica & Penny 4, Alfred & Mary 2 Graham & Miranda 5, Carman & Paddy 2, Amanda & Justin 3, Carrie & Stewart 4, Jason & Stephanie 4, Kayla & Christian  4, Darlene/Kari & Jim  3,Dave & Erin 2, Alan & MaryAnn 2, Garrett  2, Total 46

Hopefully the weather is kind to us. Sprinkles or cold is fine but not rain. The week after is fine

I will not be golfing this year and most likely not participating in the games. I will have a Caesar or two as my sport of choice.

I had a few phones to make this morning. Second try finally got thru to Viewpoint. In our hurry to leave we did not check out and have our mail box forwarded. I got a hold of the office and a young girl was quite helpful. I left another message with, get this the corporate complaint department, that has a message saying ” I will get back to you by the end of this business day” .So TWO messages and two times no call back, And never the same day just being ignored.

BMO has to have the worst customer service of any company I have ever dealt with. And this is a company we trust with our money and deposit boxes. Note I did not say Safety Deposit Box as in BMO care, safety, as they can lose a box and not be concerned can not be used. Funny thing I consider this a challenge and am at the point of enjoying the interactions. Secretly inside I know I am going to lose and will have no answer but someone has to accept responsibility, there has to be accountability and they must check their policy and procedures.

So 9am tomorrow another call and email. LOL

I leveled off the motorhome and started up the fridge. I hauled two loads of miscellaneous stuff and placed it in the motorhome.

I whipped to the Liquor Store. As we were in a hurry we didn’t pick up our cheap booze to bring back with us. WOW has stuff gone up. Almost $50 for a 26 oz of Kahlua. Beer is insane at almost double Mesa pricing.

Added winter coats to our clothes pile.

Continued to load the motorhome.

First thing this morning we whipped to Costco. I will reiterate. I do not understand the likeability of Costco for people. Some of there pricing is decent but the huge quantity you have to pay is sick. the amount of excess calories consumed to use up the food or waste would be ridiculous. Luckily today it was not that busy which was nice. The excess stuff that people throw in their carts is asinine. Even frozen stuff like Lasagna having to buy TWO is just dumb. No one can buy dairy there as the quantities are stupid.

I see NO VALUE what so ever in Costco. I would rather pay $20 more and get a normal amount and longer expiry date. I would put Costco as my least favorite grocery store, then Superstore, then Food For less and the balance of them I consider customer friendly and competitive. I laugh when I see Costco sizing on anything it is different ( larger) which just makes it harder to compare by memory.

But today for camping and Victoria needed a bunch of stuff we went together. Sooooo many items we bought where we split it like buns, burgers, lasagna, garlic toast just to name a few.

It is like a cult, sheep following sheep down the rows, grabbing a way too many unnecessary items, and trusting the pricing is good.

We got out of there at $700 so we did good and will not waste to much.

Now to go to Sobeys tonight for a normal grocery shop to get normal stuff.

I precooked my Costco sized pack of sausages and bacon for our Brunch as then I only need to heat them up.

Survivor last night was excellent. I enjoy this show. American idol is done so one less show to follow that we enjoy. Now we wait for Big Brother. Habs game on tonight which we need them to win.

Another call to BMO and another day without a response. Unbelievable ! No call backs from the accounts lady, no call backs from the branch manager, pushed off to the corporate resolution department and the exact same thing.

Red Deer weather looking better. I think we will have a cool weekend with limited rain and no snow. With the high winds today who knows it maybe 18 on the weekend. After all it is May where it May rain, it May snow, it May be hot or it May be cold. Maybe !

I love this image below. It is my entertainment when camping. Years ago in Banff we were camping sitting outside and I said I was going to guess when we heard a truck coming what kind it was be the sound of the engine. Huge difference between a Cummins, a Detroit and a Powerstroke. I did well and it kept me entertaining. Some times when you see couples struggling to back up you feel like helping but the entertainment value is too high to do that. I roll my eyes when I hear people taking secondary highways as the main one is too busy. Busy is safer and easier to drive but people panic. A drop of rain or a skiff of snow keep many off the roads. Life a little !!

The first time we headed down south we were pulling a 32 ft travel trailer behind a Mega cab pickup and took a wrong turn and two instances we ended up right downtown cedar City and downtown Phoenix proper. No big deal but turning corners and people not staying in their lanes made it a little tentative. It turned out to be a cool adventure.

Two big mistakes people make when backing in. First drive by the spot and study the angles. Second make sure to back up with the blind spot on the right side and angle back tight on the left. You already have imprinted the trouble on the right. Your guide if you have one HAS to be in your mirror site on the left side and running to check the right side as often as needed. Third one hand on bottom of steering wheel makes backing up steering easy,

In our group site it is all pull thru so I will not get to be entertained.

It is funny as a parent when good things happen to your child how excited you get. Excited, proud, and relieved. It was a good day today !!

Hauled more stuff out to the motorhome. Getting close. Daisy knows something is up as she prances and checks out what we are doing.

I smiled as a neighbor lady came to our door today. She is a sweet lady that loves to talk. I have put up her Christmas tree and helped fix a few things for her. Jackie talks to her quite often. I think Jackie is now looking after her medical needs. LOL Jackie is so kind ! She needed advise and came to Jackie for help. Made me smile !

Talk about windy out there.

May 15th

“Mercury Forecast MAY like Spring Like conditions. Rain, snow, wind, cloud “

Off for our annual Long Weekend trip. This year 42 people in attendance. Hopefully the sun peaks out every once in awhile. If not it just means more card games. We have the Rousey fight card to watch and we have the Habs game to watch in the evening which will be good.

So no posting except for the odd Facebook one until we get back next Thursday.