My low-key winter

16 Sunday Feb 2025

Posted by in community, Food and Cooking, Health, libraries, pets, Warm fuzzy, writing

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In an earlier post, readers were introduced to reckless joys and activities emerging from my brat summer.

Now seven months into retirement, I am appreciating less commuting, less stress … and less wants as a result of having less income.

I have been enjoying weekly walks on different days with two different friends, exploring our community, breathing in the fresh air, visiting local thrift shops and obtaining groceries on our way home. I appreciate getting out for volunteer activities and short jaunts to local stores for necessities. Some days I need more motivation. That’s why it’s good to have walking buddies who push you to stay on schedule.

Woman standing in front of a huge snow pile in a local parking lot

The above parking lot scene illustrates the challenge with snow removal after recent snowstorms in our region. With recent street parking restrictions by the City of Ottawa, I am so relieved that I do not have to worry about where to safely shelter a vehicle.

Tabby Cat observing Lunar New Year

As usual, I managed my seasonal depression by embracing colours, aromas and friendships while preparing for the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Snake. I also participated in home cooking experiments with the Resident Millennial.

Preparing Chinese dumplings with the Resident Millennial

One unexpected, heart-warming encounter in January was an email received from a hopeful writer who found mention of my (Flo’s) novel online and requested to purchase a copy. I had to inform him that I had no more printed copies and had removed the electronic version in 2024. I was tickled pink yet cautious about this request. You can read about it at the novel’s blog.

Walking path through deep snow in a local park

As we navigate paths and obstacles in this deep and brutal winter, let us be optimistic that spring will arrive in the Northern Hemisphere in five weeks.

Let us dream about new places to visit in Canada this summer.

Let us continue to be kind and supportive of those in need.

Thank you for stopping by.

T

The winter of their discontent

16 Sunday Feb 2025

Posted by in economy, Food and Cooking, Health, writing

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Like many Canadians and other sensible people, I have been avoiding news reports that feature the face and voice of the 47th US President as he and his unqualified minions destroy American democracy and its once-respected image on the world stage.

Apparently, many of the faithful followers are becoming discontented with the state of affairs since the orange menace’s reign officially began less than one month ago. Amid a slew of hateful, backwards executive orders, he has not delivered on his election promise to bring down the price of groceries, especially eggs. The latter is due to other factors like a couple of diseases that are spreading through US farms. Let’s see how well their agriculture industry does this spring with less health inspectors and migrant farm workers.

We can commiserate with the folks who warned about the eventual outcome if he and his Project 2025 supporters won the 2024 election.

We can commiserate from Canada, the True North Strong and Free by watching the analysis through level-headed journalists and sharp-witted comedians.

Even our weekly Cross Country Checkup call-in show on CBC is asking Canadians “How has Trump changed the way you feel about Canada?”

Dahm. I feel more love and support for my country, its flag, its farmers, manufacturers and retailers who have answered consumers’ calls to boycott US companies and travel locations. Unfortunately, this will affect the livelihood of American workers. Those US citizens who voted for the current regime are likely kicking themselves in the arse and hiding their red baseball caps.

The next couple of months are going to be interesting as we watch from the sidelines while munching metaphorical popcorn.

Sorry not sorry.

My Brat Summer

22 Sunday Sep 2024

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My first few months of retirement from full-time work have been great. My freedom from the weekday commute and office cubicle interruptions gave me strength and a sense of empowerment. Our portable air conditioner provided our living room with the needed comfort during the sticky heat waves.

In a previous post, I mentioned the long overdue train trip in June to the east coast with one of my sisters. In another blog, I documented a joyful family reunion road trip in August, accompanied by one of my adult children. In early September, I enjoyed meetups with former coworkers downtown.

I enjoyed the freedom of an unsupervised brat

It is now the first day of Autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. I can acknowledge and welcome this transition to kinder temperatures, colourful foliage and the opportunities to cook delicious meals on the stove more often.

I am saddened and disturbed by news of continued natural disasters, civil unrest, up-coming elections drama, cross-border invasions, and diabolical electronic warfare tactics in the Middle East. I am concerned that the instability in some regions will spill over into our comparably peaceful existence.

I am determined to hug loved ones and perform more acts of kindness towards others.

I have enjoyed my relaxed, peaceful morning routines despite being howled awake by the geriatric Tabby Cat. She is a frequent recipient of patience and kindness. She receives ample care from the local animal hospital.

Peek-a-boo! It’s time to serve my breakfast.

I enjoy my creature comforts, weekly commitments and social engagements in my community and my Rotary club. I am exploring farther within my community where most services and goods are available within walking distance. I don’t need a vehicle with the expenses and emissions involved.

A park bench to rest my baggage during errands around the community.

I recently purchased a pair of those Skecher Slip-in sneakers. They are indeed easy to put on instead of bending and fumbling with shoelaces, but don’t provide good support for longer walks.

My next travel adventures within Canada will have to wait until next Spring, once I have a handle on my retirement income and expenses.

Thank you for reading along. May your Canadian Autumn be graced with beautiful colours, good companions and tasty treats.

T