KELTICGRASSHOPPER

PHEW.....

2009-12-14T08:18:00.000-08:00

The wedding was lovely..Total panic for me at about 4:00. The caterer arrived..The girls were all here. Gabe and Amy were getting ready. I had gotten dressed early to free up space.. But never did my hair or make-up. There were about 80 candles that had to be lighted and know one available to do it. The wine bottles had to be uncorked..14 bottles..and placed on the tables..Water glasses had to be iced and water poured. The lady who was supposed to do all of this for some reason thought she could do it alone.Then realized that she needed help..SURPRISE !!! But guest started arriving..the hors d'oeuvres were not ready and all hell was breaking loose..I lit all the candles with help from Dan.. Grabbed some people to uncork the wine and ice the glasses.. Two other guests poured the water. But now it was 5:00 I still hadn't brushed my teeth, done my makeup or hair. I ran up stairs and brushed my teeth..then heard someone calling about the champagne..Went back down found that and the glasses.. Now it was 5:20 and I had to get all of the "special brides maids upstairs.. Still no makeup, hair looking pretty ugly. Oh well .. at that point I said F *** it..I am what I am..deal !!!

Then some of the brides maids wanted to take pictures.. My hair was a wreck and no makeup..but so be it

This is Chelsey and her Grandmother Sullivan who turned 86 on the day of the wedding..

The ceremony was perfect..the meal delicious..the cupcakes beautiful and yummy..The bride and groom happy. The Mother of the bride A MESS.. But hey I am what I am.. right..

Now on to Christmas and then the countdown to PEI.. Have a good week everyone.. Remember to make happy memories..but comb your hair and put your makeup on first or you forever look like a MESS!!!!

BREATHE and smile for me..

Thursday..Friday..Wedding day..

2009-12-10T07:22:00.001-08:00

This has been quite a week. Monday morning the construction workers landed to begin demolition of one of the apartments here in the house. WHY??? I have no idea why they couldn't have waited. But thanks to Dan and one of the workers the "mess" was contained and I only suffered a minor nervous break down. Today they are back and the process is going on all over again. Pounding..hammering..blasting..good grief. I am getting out of here soon to spend some time with Chelsey, the girls, Brian's Mom and sister.

Tomorrow the tables, linens, stem-wear and the likes will arrive. Chelsey and a gang of others will land here late in the AM and we will begin decorating. The hope is that we will finish by mid afternoon. In the evening we are going out to dinner and then driving up to Northampton to get Gabe and Amy.

Saturday morning bright and early, Gabe, Amy and I will start baking and decorating the wedding cupcakes. I am looking forward to this it should be fun. The guest start arriving at around 4:00. My mother in law will be picked up and driven here..Sarah Michel the fiddler will land to go over the music with us..The brides-maids and the girls and the bride will be buzzing about getting dressed.. Should be insane fun. The wedding will start at 5:30..and by then everything and everyone will be beautiful. I will take lots of pictures..

Wish us luck.. I want nothing short of PERFECTION!!!!

Have a nice day everyone..Remember to make some magic moments..watch out for soul stealing pirates and whatever you do..

BREATHE and smile for me

Sorry for the lapse in "Bloggery"

2009-12-03T07:45:00.000-08:00

It has been crazy here. Our concert with Andrea Beaton and friends was amazing..Following that I hosted Thanksgiving dinner here at the house for all of my extended family. 38 in all. It was great fun, the food was wonderful and the company happy and helpful. Through all of that my back was really messed up. There were times when I could barely walk. But I made it through.

The day following Thanksgiving dinner the trustees descended upon the house to decorate for Christmas. So at 9:00AM I was hauling around trees and boxes for them. They finished up the first day at around 3:00 in the afternoon but were back again the next morning to continue. It is done and looks lovely.

Now the main purpose for being so involved in the decorating this year was because of the wedding next week. That is the next project on my plate. Everything seems as though it is thought out and should work. The big problem involves shuffling people around that don't drive or have cars. Gabe and Amy are being perfect agreeing to spend Friday night here so we won't be getting up at dawn on Saturday to get them and then drive down to Connecticut to get Chelsey's grand-mother.

Friday afternoon Chelsey, Brian..Brian's folks, several bridesmaids..and who knows who else, will descend upon the hall to "decorate" . This I fear will be total insanity. But we'll see. I always find that when you get too many "cooks" in the kitchen only trouble abounds. Believe me we will have several very strong personalities working there that afternoon. Should be interesting.

Friday evening we are all driving over to Westfield for dinner. After which I will head up to Northampton to get Gabe and Amy. I am at the point now where I just want all of this done. I am sure it will be lovely and lots of fun. BUT in two weeks I'll be hosting Christmas Eve dinner for 10. I can't wait for JULY!!!!

So my friends I wish you a happy Thursday..I promise I will be better about updating this from now on. Take care now and have some fun. Remember whatever you do don't forget to

BREATHE and smile for me

Word about Wally

2009-11-23T06:56:00.000-08:00

November 22, 2009

Message from Shane . . .

Waldron's operation went fine on Thursday, Nov 19th. He will be recuperating for about a week at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Visitation is limited to just two family members, though. No word back from the tests yet. He is weak and his hemoglobin numbers are down significantly but that should return to normal, given time. He thanks everyone for their concern and is looking forward to getting home soon.

Keep him in your thoughts....

Wally Leard...

2009-11-19T11:50:00.000-08:00

November 18, 2009

Message from Shane . . .

I spoke with Waldron by phone this evening. He would like everyone to know that he is under the capable care of his surgeon at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Charlottetown. His operation will be taking place at 12:30 p.m. (AST) on Thursday, November 19th. It will likely be three to five hours in length and he will, undoubtedly, be quite groggy for a day or two afterwards. Once I hear anything new, I will post the information to the web site here and on his Facebook account.

My thoughts are with you Wally...Be well. May the surgeons hands be guided by angels and keep you safe..

BREATHE now and smile for me

Cold November days

2009-11-18T09:17:00.001-08:00

I love this time of year. The mornings dawn kinda gray and crisp. The trees are bare but there are still bursts of color from fall flowers that are hanging on. I can look out my window now and see patches of bright purple and yellow against the bank next door. It's pretty. But this cold makes me realize that very soon all of this will be covered with white snow..and once again the house will be wrapped in ice making it look like a scene from Dr Zhivago.

Ahhh New England..

This weekend's concert is a sell out. I am looking forward to seeing Andrea and Hilda and getting to know Remi. I am certain that it will be a great night of music. They have been playing all over the place.. From Maine to Boston to Springfield and New Hampshire the poor things will be beat by the time they get back to Cape Breton. I am happy for them though. Seems like this tour has been a great time for them all.

Not much happening here today. I wrote another 200 or so words in my "book". It is coming along nicely. I am still finding it esy to write every day which is good. I ahve over 20, 000 words written and lots more is in my head. There are some nasty characters working their magic in my brain. Its going to be quite an ending.. Have no idea where all of this will lead.. Fun stuff

So my friends have a great day and remember to tsay happy and safe..make some memories and whatever you do ..

Breathe and smile for me..

Words that hurt

2009-11-17T07:48:00.000-08:00

I think we all need to remember that words can hurt. Sure we all have moments of anger, human nature guarantees that. But what we say can linger. What we say can open wounds and cause pain.

Something that is of great interest to me is this. For the past 39 years..everyday or at least almost EVERY DAY. With the exception of maybe a total of 30 days in 39 years. Everyday I have gotten up made the bed, made breakfast, lunch and dinner. Did laundry, folded laundry, put away clothes for everyone in the house. I cleaned, washed floors, dusted..all that stuff that you just DO. Most of the time I did those things without help but I didn't expect help. I felt like this was what I should do. Keep everyone fed, happy and clean. I didn't do those things expecting to be cheered or thanked in any way at all!! I just did them every day for 39 years.

So I ask you this question. WHY would someone expect to be praised for doing the same thing I have done everyday for 39 years? When I clean or do laundry or fold clothes.. I don't stomp around making a big production out of it..I just get it done. I don't find the tasks stressful either. I just do them.

So for the past few days I have been bothered by a very stiff back. I haven't been as fast getting things done. The man in my house decided yesterday that he would help..but his idea of help is to constantly look over his shoulder waiting for me to say "gee you did a great job folding that laundry dear."."The dishes are just sparkling thank you for washing them." I didn't say those things.. So the man in this house started to get a bit wound up. I was writing yesterdays blog..he had walked out of living room and had left the TV on blaring away with some mindless program. I didn't have the remote..I didn't turn it off. SOOOOO in he comes..glaring at me as he says.."HOW CAN YOU WATCH THIS STUFF." He takes the remote from the table and changes the channel. To which I answered. "I wasn't even watching it I'm writing my blog." To which he answers..with a litany of swears calling me every name in the book.Stomps up and down the hallway slamming things around. So he did this because??? For not appreciating him??? Not a clue why..but let me say this. I don't deserve to be sworn at by him or anyone. So I didn't speak to him the rest of the evening and haven't said much this morning either. I was hurt and I was hurting physically at the time.

It all made me wonder how would he react to a major illness. How would he manage to be able to do all of the things that I do without thought day after day. Would he want praise? I sure hope I stay healthy..cause I'd never make it with him as a care giver. LOL God help me : )

So my friends remember words can hurt. Keep those thoughts to your self. The tongue can be a terrible beast. Tame it before you open your mouth. Have a great day and stay safe and happy. Don't worry I'll be making lunch for his nibs and dinner..and I'll never expect a word of thanks. : )

BREATHE now and smile for me...

Wishes and thoughts

2009-11-16T16:15:00.000-08:00

Today I am thinking about my friend Waldron Leard on PEI. He is battling cancer at the moment. Awaiting word from the hospital for surgery. Wally is the heart and soul of a website called The Eastern Kings Meeting Place..or http://ekpei.ca/072.html

This site is a daily visit for me. Photo of the day gives me a peek into the goings on in my home away from here. Wally is also the community historian. Anyone who wants to search for island roots can just check with him and he will help you find that long lost family. I cannot imagine Kingsboro without Wally Leard. He is always there, photographing events. Making video's writing articles for the local paper.

The world is a better place because of that gentle man. His shy knowledge is a treasure which is shared with his community and the world. His pride about the website is always redirected away from himself and towards the other folks who take photos and write bits of information. He is never one to brag about himself..But is always ready to share a story or a memory.

Today I am thinking about Wally and wishing him God's care. I pray that the Doctors can remove the cancer and save his life. I ask all of you to give my friend a thought today..send out a prayer if you do that ..send out a positive wish..Take care Wally..thinking of you.

Breathe now and smile for me..

Well it's been awhile...

2009-11-11T16:16:00.000-08:00

Things were just plain crazy here last week. My bosses were putting on a luncheon and somehow I was pulled in to the planning , the cooking and the decorating. Lots and lots of work. But it went off very nicely. They had a good crowd show up..I'd guestimate about 60 for the meal and probably double that for the antique sale.

This week I have gotten back to writing. It is fascinating how this story is spinning itself out, When I first started I thought it would be a simple story suitable for young adults. I had a beginning, middle and end all planned out.

Now my teacher said "DON'T DO THAT ! Start with an idea, add your characters, slowly tell the reader about these people. Keep them guessing don't tell then too much. Just write and let the story tell itself."

Well he was right..and when I let go of what I thought should happen..the characters started speaking to me..it is so strange. They have become so real,,some are still slowly revealing themselves and others are so different than I thought they would be. Through it all my main character the young girl remains just that a young girl. She is totally unaware of the corruption, the affairs, the evil that is about to tear her family apart. It's steamy in parts, there is a thread of waiting for the shoe to drop..while some of the adults dance and turn trying to cover up the awful things they have done. I'm loving it.. 14,000 words done..and I've just started.. : )

So if you don't see anything new in here for a few days that's why.. Next weekend will see Andrea's concert. We have only 4 seats left..Looks like another sell out.
For now my friends I'll tell you to stay safe..have fun and make some memories..Whatever you do..remember

BREATHE and smile for me

November, november...

2009-11-03T09:35:00.000-08:00

My boys in the Bronx are playing so well ! Man, I hope they wrap this up tomorrow night in the "big house" I'll be watching and looking towards right field and the Model's sign. : ) That is an inside joke..So for those of you who are out of the loop you can just wonder.. LOL

Election day today and here in Agawam I had the grand choice of voting for a well known 30 something THUG or another man of questionable character.. Good grief..It took me forever to make a decision. I was going to write in Micky Mouse, then I thought I'd write in myself. I wasn't sure if doing something like that would cause all of my votes to be nullified. So in the end I went with choice number 2. Based only on the fact that he has had more experience I do not like the man at all!

I took a drive over to The Christmas Tree Shop and got three pretty glass pitchers for the house. I am sick to death of the ugly plastic ones that are here now. YUKKY.. It will be nice to have something pretty that matches for parties and meetings.

I am working away at my book. I have almost 10,000 words written it is coming along nicely. So interesting how it is taking shape. It isn't anything at all like I had planned. There seem to be two plots developing..one as seen by the young girl..her eyes see as a child does. She is unaware of the corruption and deceit that is swirling around. It is looking very much like someone will die..probably two people will die. One the victim of a tragic accident the other...hummmm not sure suicide or murder.. Wherever my vivid imagination and fingers take me. The title of the book is "RABBIT SUMMER" and I can promise that the rabbits will be saved...

So my friends I wish you all a happy Tuesday.. J J ..I wish I was up there to make you some coffee.. It is really easy..just follow the directions I posted on Facebook : )... For all the rest of you stay safe, stay happy and whatever you do remember to

BREATHE and smile for me...

Happy Halloween to everyone..

2009-10-31T10:51:00.000-07:00

The picture above was taken 39 years ago today at right around 2:15 in the afternoon.. Our wedding started at 2:00. At that point in time I had lost the ability to speak. The minister had just asked me "Do you want to continue?" Hummmmm.

So I have been working away at this novel that is running around in my brain..and I decided since it was Halloween and all to share a bit of it with all of you. Now mind you this is just one small scene, and this one small scene really did happen to me when I was around 8 years old. The story is made up of several events that actually did happen to me..but it is not entirely based of fact..

Read it.. and feel free to contact me with advice, suggestions and other. If I get published you will all be a part of my dedication.. LOL

.........The next day after school she decided to go by herself back to the spot where she and Bobby had been watching, David and her sister. She crawled through the brush. This time there were only boys voices, loud laughter and what sounded like chickens.

“What are they doing now?" she thought. She peered through the brush and held her breath. There were 5 or maybe 6 boys all of them wore the black jackets like David’s. They were smoking cigarettes and laughing. She saw a big box off to the side. David was poking at something in the box with a baseball bat she thought she heard him say,

“Are you ready to walk the plank?”

There was a long board set up on top of two barrels and a rope was hung from a tree branch at one end. Under the rope there was a metal wash bucket.

“ Hey Dave, said one of the boys, is your momma gonna cook them up tonight?”

Everyone was laughing now as David pulled a big black and white chicken from the box. The bird was squawking and flapping wildly as David carried it to the board.

“Here we go.” said David grinning

He tied the rope around the chickens neck and watched as it ran along the board. It hit the end and dropped hanging in the air flapping its wings. She watched in horror as David swung an ax and cut the head right off.

“Look at that the boys yelled its still flapping. Do it again!”

“Walk the plank, walk the plank ..they shouted.”

David was covered with blood as he wildly swung the axe at 5 chickens one after the other.

Leslie could not move. She was frozen in fright. Her hand covered her mouth to keep her self from screaming.

“Oh my God Oh my God please don’t let them see me.”

She stayed huddled in a small tight ball until they all left, carrying the bodies of the 5 chickens back to the Moore’s house. The five chicken heads were stuck on the ends of the fence posts that surrounded their “club-house. Another image of horror for Leslie to carry in her mind. Her bike was waiting at the top of the bank. But instead of riding she walked pushing it along beside her. She walked through her woods trying to make the images in her mind go away. A doe was grazing in the clearing and twin fawns played as she ate. As Leslie looked at them she thought about those awful boys and wondered if they would hurt these creatures too. She clapped her hands and watched as the deer ran deep into the woods.

“Stay safe she thought, stay safe.”

Lenny’s pond was just ahead she saw some kids playing at the edge. Bobby looked up and waved. She waved back and walked down the hill to the pond.

“Where were you?” Said Bobby

“ I just went for a ride, she answered, I wanted to check out the baby sheep that were born last night at the Mahler Farm.”

“Did you see um?” asked Bobby

“No, I stopped where we were yesterday and I wish I hadn’t.” she said.

She told all the kids what she had seen. Know one said a word. But their faces told the story.

FEAR

“We have to tell someone, said Bobby, that’s sick. They might try and do that to a person.”

“I don’t think we should tell, said Lee, There are too many of them, I don’t know all their names. Someone would figure out who saw and told and then we would get hurt. But I am sacred for my sister. I think I should tell her.”

“ Your sister will tell David and then he will get us.” said Bobby.

“ Then we will not tell anyone. Blood brothers vow.” said Lee.

Bobby took his pocket knife and they all made a small cut on the tip of their fingers. They held hands then and vowed to never tell!

Happy Halloween everyone..stay safe now and watch out for goblins and gouls. Whatever you do Remember to

Breathe and smile for me

Wednesday already..

2009-10-28T16:47:00.000-07:00

Good grief. It has been crazy busy here. Lots happening at the house and in life in general. Stated my class on Monday and I have been working on my assignment about 4 hours each day. We have to complete a 70,000 word novel in 8 months. I have had a story rolling around in my head since I was in college in the 1960's..and so far it is going well. I have completed about 3500 words now. Yesterday my teacher looked my work over, made a few suggestions in format and told me to keep working. The story is based on events that happened to me and some friends back in 1951. It is a look back at a simpler time yet that simple time is tainted with a murder,corruption and fear. It is called "Rabbit Summer"

So that is what I have been up to. I may drive Dan over the edge here. Now I am on the computer constantly. The ideas are just pouring out of my brain. I am really excited about this book : ) Who knows maybe I'll be "discovered" and be an over night success like the woman that wrote Harry Potter. LOL

Anyway I hope all of you are safe and happy..Remember to have fun, make memories and watch out for evil doers..

Whatever you do don't forget to
Breathe and smile for me.

I amost forgot..

2009-10-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

Tonight I am beginning a class in creative writing..which will run till the end of May. My first class since my college "daze" back in the 1960's. Wonder how I'll do.. LOL

At any rate I can see a prize winning novel and a screen play in my future...

Yeah RIGHT..

Take care all

later......

Monday, monday...

2009-10-26T08:51:00.000-07:00

It is beautiful here in Massachusetts today. The sun is shining..the air is crisp..the sky is blue blue blue...Great day to take some photos which I may just have to do later.

This morning I cleaned the house down stairs and set up for the chamber of pirates tomorrow AM. Early day tomorrow..I have to get up at 6:30 to start the coffee and tea and get the juice iced and ready for their arrival at 7:30AM.. Once a month isn't bad..

Mailed out the invitations for Thanksgiving dinner this morning.. Probably around 40 people again. Though some are still up in the air I think just about everyone will be here. Except for Joel and Amanda who are in the military and unable to get leave.

Should be fun..crazy getting everything ready and hot and served..and cleaned up and of course the very next day i have to decorate the Leonard House for Christmas.. after I get up at 3:00AM to hit the sales for Christmas. I am really insane. Of course this year between Thanksgiving and Christmas we are having a wedding... EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKK.. Oh well this too shall pass and I know I can do it all.

So my friends I hope everyone is safe and warm and happy. Have a great Monday. J J I hear you are "parenting" up there in PEI..sure wish I could come and sit with those sweet babies.. Give them a big hello from meg and tell them i miss them lots.. miss you and Julie too !!!

Take care now and remember whatever you do today don't forget to

BREATHE and smile for me!

Ranting along ..but with a smile...

2009-10-25T07:04:00.001-07:00

I am sorry for last nights rant. I am sorry if I worried my friends. I'm fine, but I was really angry and writing it all down helped. I do not want to worry anyone.

Sometimes I just need to vent and this spot allows me to do just that.

I turn to the keyboard and I type. I spill out all my emotions onto a screen and push a button sending it off into cyberspace. Kind of like a prayer or a meditation. It works for me. My dear friend on PEI told me today. "Let go and let God". I understand that and I do. Sometimes I just get so bound up with all these crazy emotions and thoughts that the only way I can cope is to vent in this way. So I guess in a sense this screen, this page, this blog, is my "prayer" or meditation. But I don't mean to upset my friends. When I get this way just remember you are my prayer group..I am unloading and giving it to "God", "the universe", whatever you want to call "IT" or "HIM" or "Her" ( Attempting to be politically correct while writing : ) )

It helps, it works most of the time. You see, I am at a point in my life where I need to feel right. I need to feel good. I need to be able to say to people who piss me off that they "piss me off"..That they hurt my feelings when they talk to me like I am the village idiot. My suggestions or advice is never offered to be self serving but is offered after living through a lot of years. My advice and or suggestions don't have to be taken and followed but they deserve to be listened to and done so with respect. After that, do whatever you decide to do, it is "your life" after all. Just don't talk to me like I am an idiot with absolute nothing worthwhile to offer. Because I'm not!

I think I need a puppy..they are never anything but loving.. : )

Have a great Sunday my friends.. go on out and make some happy memories. It is a beautiful day here in Massachusetts..maybe time for a head clearing walk down by the river. Whatever you do today ..remember

BREATHE and smile for me..

Giver or taker

2009-10-24T15:26:00.000-07:00

My Mom always said..there are two kinds of people in the world. Takers and givers. You know who you are. The takers ask, and ask and ask. To the point of expecting that they shouldn't have to ask . They start thinking they deserve whatever it is they want or need. When things don't go their way they lash out or they just find other ways to "punish" those who have not done as was expected.

The givers never stop giving. They run through their lives..helping family members and friends. Giving time, giving money, giving favors. They never ask for anything in return. But they spend a lot of time feeling hurt and unloved and unappreciated. Because the takers are always there asking for more and lashing out when the givers cannot help at the exact moment they need it.

So how do we solve this dilemma? We could be like "Nancy Regan" and just say "NO"..all the time..just say "NO"..But that would be too much to bare for the givers. They can't say No..not without feeling guilty, and the takers know that.

The takers never seem to be able to see what they are doing to the people around them. Their demands never stop but they don't see it. They just want and want and want. And they forget..when they are asked they forget to do what they are asked..or what they promised. But they NEVER forget what they have asked FOR or what they think they deserve.

I am tired, I am tired of feeling guilty for saying "NO I Can't do that." I am tired of being second to everyone else. I want to be a TAKER for the rest of my life. But that won't work because I really don't need anything except for the takers I know to stop being the way they are and realize that I only want to be thought about, maybe 1/2 as much as the friends. That I would love to have moments when I can just sit quietly and visit without having to do something or take care of someone.
CAN YOU TELL I AM PISSED OFF.. GOOD !!!!!.."

Because I am...and now I feel guilty for saying that.. good grief

BREATHE

Rainy day.. it is awful outside.. YUKKY

2009-10-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

So what can I do on a yukky rainy day? Well I wrote up a brief attempt at a marketing plan for the LH. Seems that I may have a new job..They want me to develop a marketing strategy for the house. I have a few ideas. But how to do them is the problem! LOL

Later I think I am going to go the the movies with MORGAN.. and maybe Molly.. At this point in time Molly is being a mope and says she doesn't want to go to the movies.. Who needs her anyway : ) She'll change her mind. So it will be "Where the Wild Things are" Can't wait.. I loved loved loved the children's book and from what I have read the movie is good. A full report will follow.. : )

Aside from that not much is going on. So I will wish you all a happy Saturday. Go on out and make some memories with someone special in your life. Stay safe and warm..and whatever you do remember

BREATHE and smile for me

It's Friday...

2009-10-23T07:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I received an email from my friend Vic. He pointed out the following..

" Andrea has been to a house concert in Lebanon, NH, and has played at other US festivals. She toured with Beòlach in 2007 and played in Havertown, PA, and a number of other venues (including, I believe, West Virginia). This past year, she was in Seabeck, Washington, and NYC, both well west of Boston, as her web site’s past 2009 schedule shows; she will also be playing in Springfield, MA on the 10th of November, though that is part of the same tour. If memory serves, she has also played at the Milwaukee Irish Festival, though I’m not certain of that and don’t find anything about it on her web site. So I seriously quibble with your last sentence quoted above…"

OOPs sorry for that mistake. I was really think ONLY in terms of WESTERN Massachusetts. Not the entire planet : )

But he then added...

"....But not with the thrust of your other comments; with Hilda along, it should be a FANTASTIC concert! I’m really looking forward to it, so much, in fact, I’m going to both the dance in Boston and the concert at Agawam, and I might just make it a "threefer" by heading up to Springfield on the 10th.

I can’t begin to say how happy I am she’s coming to Agawam; the venue is absolutely perfect for her style of playing and music. Thank you so much for bringing her to the US."

Now hows that for a FAN of Cape Breton music. This man drives up from New Jersey!!! to THREE SHOWS.. So my friends I hope this will encourage you all to give a holler as they say..and reserve your seats for our house concert with Andrea Beaton, Hilda Chaisson-Cormier and Remi Arsenault on NOVEMBER 21, 2009 at 7:30PM

I wish you all a happy Friday..stay safe now and go out and have some fun. Remember to watch out for those "wild-things" and whatever you do remember to

BREATHE and smile for me

Wild Things...

2009-10-22T07:45:00.000-07:00

I read an editorial the other day in the New York Times. It was based upon the movie "Where the Wild Things Are".. Spoke about all of us and the wild things that inhabit our minds and lives. Soooooo I started thinking and you know that can mean trouble.

"Wild things"..thoughts or impulses that can give a momentary sense of enjoyment but can also trigger great pain. You all know those moments..those dares from friends or even from within your mind.. Those "Let's do it!" moments..Great fun..lots of laughs but sometimes....Trouble...

My mind is full of thoughts and impulses that I know could give me great pleasure. There are things I want to do so badly that thinking about them keeps me awake at night. Wild things, but are they? How do we separate what we dream of from what is wrong? Is it more important in this life to always think about others? While you are burdened with questions and "wild things" . I don't know.

Neither did the columnist. He approached the thought in two ways. First as a philosopher, and then as a psychologist. The philosopher always took the high road..the psychologist just analyzed everything but didn't do a thing.

I think I am caught in the middle. Many times I feel pulled. I am full of questions and "wonderings". I know that isn't a word..But I just made it one. I feel that way way back in time I made a choice..that choice had a profound effect on my life and on the lives of many other people. That one choice, that one decision changed the course of so many lives. That is my "wild thing"..that choice..that turn in the road..that what if.

I just cannot get rid of it. Which leads me to think that I need to put on my "wolf" costume and make myself the QUEEN!

So my friends I'll end this while I can without letting that "wild thing" escape from my mind. : ) I wish you all a happy Thursday stay safe now..and be happy..let those wild things out..tame them by staring them in the eyes..Whatever you do remember

BREATHE and smile for me

Next concert will be the one to remember for a LONG LONG TIME !!!

2009-10-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday's concert featured Aoife Clancy, it was a fun night. The audience made up of some regulars and quite a few lovers of The Clancy Brother's was enchanted by Aoife. She was good..her vocals not quite as crisp as some other young performers we have featured like Liz Simmons and Lissa Schneckenburger..but still enjoyable for the audience.

Next up will feature three of Cape Breton's best!! Andrea Beaton on fiddle, Hilda Chaisson-Cormier on piano and Remi Arsenault on guitar. It will be amazing. I have absolutely no doubt. We already have reservations totaling I believe 25 so please contact me early or you will miss this one. Andrea often makes trip to Massachusetts but rarely to Western, Mass. If fact I really think this is her first trip west of Boston.

We first met her when she was a student..and fell in love with her playing. She is powerful not unlike J J Chaisson. She plays with heart and soul..and drives the fast tunes. But her touch for slow airs and waltzes will bring you to tears. She is a delight. I cannot wait. We have tried for years now to have her be part of the series and finally she said YES.. This time is extra special because she will be coming with her newest CD so this will be her WESTERN MASS CD launch too !!!

I wish you all a happy Tuesday..have some fun ow and remember to do two things. Call early for your seats and

BREATHE and smile for me

Sold out concert set for tonight and happy birthday to ELLA ROSE !!!!!!

2009-10-17T09:44:00.001-07:00

Aoife Clancy is set to arrive here for sound check at right around 5:30..the list is set..we have 76 people who are on the LIST..and not another soul can fit into our little hall. I am excited and nervous about the night. Hope beyond hope that people will not just SHOW UP and expect to get in. BECAUSE THEY WON'T..

Today is also a special day up on PEI.. It is Ella's 2nd birthday !!! Happy Birthday honey bunch. I sure wish I was there to give you a hug.. I hope you have a very special day..I can just see you running about with a big smile on your face. I hope Mommy sends me some pictures!

It is just crazy down here..with concerts, weddings, Thanksgiving and Christmnas looming on the horizon. My hope is that just maybe we will see a little car with PEI plates drive in on December 11th..filled with smiling faces.. If you guys can come down bring your fiddle J J so you can fiddle the bride and groom into a happy life..

So my friends..I wish you a happy weekend.. I have the soup simmering on the stove and the hall is ready ..Wish me luck tonight.. I do not have any help..and I am a bit nervous about that.. Go on out today and make some happy memories..think of sweet Ella on PEI and make a wish for her..whatever you do remember

BREATHE and Smile for me..

Just in... Booked for November 13, 2010

2009-10-15T07:44:00.000-07:00

The newest "super group" of multi talented women.. " Long Time Courting" Will grace our hall next November.. They are the best of the best.. Cannot wait !!!!

Great day yesterday

2009-10-13T08:39:00.001-07:00

Went for a drive and then a hike up to the Peace Pagoda. Molly, Morgan, Chelsey, Dan and I. We had a lovely day.. Molly loves going there and is right into it ..She built this beautiful prayer tower.

It was Dan's first visit and he was really taken with the peace and powerful sense of spirituality that is present at this magical spot. This Pagoda was erected about 25 years ago. The Buddhist monks who live here are part of an order that started in Japan just following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki Their work and purpose is to end all nuclear bombs on the planet.

About 15 years or so back the temple here was burned by people who for some reason felt that these simple quiet monks were a threat. Now work is almost complete on the new temple which is scheduled to open next October. Dan and I have volunteered
to help with some of the work. Should be quite an experience.

The temple building is visible on the left hand side of the above picture..It is an amazing building using natural materials and solar energy..It is beautiful.

Anyway it was a beautiful day..we ended it with a trip to the A to Z Science store in Northampton where the girlies each bought some new toys.

Today started off cold and rainy but now the sun is out and it looks like it will be a beautiful afternoon. So my friends I wish you all a lovely Tuesday..stay safe now and stay happy. Remember whatever you do..

BREATHE and smile for me..

Happy Thanksgiving to my friends in Canada

2009-10-11T05:34:00.000-07:00

Today the stoves will be warming the houses in Kingsboro, Mabou, the Baltic and in Souris. All across Canada kitchens will be steaming as the turkeys are prepared for families and thanks are given. Tomorrow is the official Thanksgiving Day but most of the meals are eaten on the Sunday before... I wish our Thanksgiving was like that. Having ours on a THURSDAY is awful..especially for working families..There is no time to relax , prepare and give thanks..It's typical of our nation.. HURRY UP..GET IT DONE and GET BACK TO WORK.. Crazy..

I have always felt that time is much more valuable than money. I never really had a "good" work ethic I guess. Money was and is a necessary evil.. But time is worth so much more. Time with friends, family, for yourself. Time to walk along the shore, time to hike up a mountain, time to sit and read a good book. I watch people work and work and work..I watch people miss moments that will never happen again..children learning to walk..first words, first smiles, first goals at a soccer game, first hits at little league. Time...worth so much more than the money we make while missing those moments.

When my children were small I stayed at home. I could have worked but chose not to. When I did go back to work I always tried to find jobs where I could be off at the same time as my children. I worked as a teachers aide for years. Once they were in high school I was able to get "regular jobs" 9- 5 stuff..I worked for years at a local Credit Union and before that as the manager of a small Florist business. BUT I never put the job ahead of family or time off. In fact I quit the manager position, that was very good paying, because a rule change meant that I was required to work on holidays. NOPE not this lady. The Credit Union was like a family and I loved working there.. By that time both of my children were into or through college..I was able to take time off in the summer to go to PEI and it was good.

Now I have it made so to speak.. I live where I work. My bosses love me and the way I take care of this house. I have time to be with my kids and family. I have two months to spend on PEI in the summer. Life is good and I am thankful..

So my friends I wish you all a wonderful Sunday..Have some fun..make some memories and share your time with someone special. Whatever you do remember

BREATHE and smile for me

Flowers and stuff...

2009-10-09T07:31:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I told you that I had been working on the brides flowers.. Pictured above is how they look. I wanted to get things done early because a December wedding is going to make things pretty crazy here..

I have to get busy writing up the Thanksgiving invites this weekend..
( Dinner for 45 )..and of course shop for Christmas gifts decorate the house down stairs and upstairs.. Yesterday I heard from our other tenant that he is probably moving so now I am faced with the prospect of interviewing people for BOTH apartments in the next two months as well as all of the rest of the goings on..

W H E W... SOOOOOOOOO can you see why I wanted to get the flowers done early? LOL

Ahhh what the hay it's just life in the fast lane with Meg ..Right?

Not sure what I'm going to attack today.. I should get the wording started for Wedding Announcements and buy the paper to print them up so I can pop them in the mail by December 10th... With Chelsey's wedding being so small I wanted to do something to get the word out in a polite way to family and friends who will not be attending the wedding. I also need to buy a wireless modem for my laptop. Right now I am stealing internet from unknown sources and it kinda makes me nervous.

Anyway..last night J J and Julie spent their first night in the new house. What a wonderful way to celebrate a THANKSGIVING weekend.. I am so thankful for their family..and their friendship.. HUGS TO YOU GUYS!!! Wishing you many many years of happiness in your new home! Can't wait to see it!

So my friends have yourselves a great day..For all my friends in Cape Breton..have fun at the Gala Opening tonight..Wish I was there! Everyone else go on out and have some fun today.. Laugh, hug, and spend some time with someone special..make a few memories to be cherished..and whatever you do remember

BREATHE and smile for me..