Books

A commonly used blog title, and for a good reason.

Books are just the best.

Books I have so many of.

Books I would like to buy more of.

Books I love!

There was a time back when I started my Christmas list that I decided it was necessary to stray from the whole Chapters gift card path that my list usually travels down.

The simple truth of the matter is: I have too many books that I haven't read.

Instead of buying more, I have decided to not buy another novel until I have read every single book on my shelves. This may take a while, but I have patience.

Then, Friday came along.

After I got up till the time I went to bed I acquired $45.00 in the form of two Chapters gift cards. This is not helping people.

As Papa pointed out, they don't expire. Which is wonderful because I won't be spending them for quite some time.

Happy Eve of Christmas Eve's eve eve eve, this is t-bear signing off

Life right now

I haven't written in quite a while and I believe you all deserve an explanation. 

The very cold, hard, truth is that I don't feel like it. 

I realize that that probably sounds lame. It's not exactly a writer block moment; I just don't feel like it.

Here's the thing about life right now:

I can't stop thinking about the fact that I could be stuck in the same office, at the same desk for the next 45ish years of my life. I am not okay with that, and I don't know how to make the change without taking my whole life and flipping it upside down.

Here's the thing about life right now:

I bought a super sweet, little, cute car that needs the starter replaced, among other things. 

I'm not naming any names or placing any blames, but I'm unhappy sir; you know who you are.

Here's the thing about life right now:

I'm slowly working on this sermon that I'm supposed to be preaching to the thousands (that's a hyperbole) in little over a week (that's not). I'd like to say that this is going to be easy, but I have a feeling that some of the older people in the congregation will not appreciate the usual humour that I like to add to life. I guess the worst thing that happens is they request that I don't speak anymore.

 

Although these things aren't very horrendous, they don't add much joy to certain areas of life. I still strive for happiness on a daily basis, but it is these things that hang there over me while I go about my day, just waiting to attack.

I leave you with this quote I've found:

 

"Sometimes I feel like I'm searching too hard. As if what I'm looking for isn't meant to be found yet. I have to keep telling myself, 'Have faith in what you don't know.' It's harder than it seems."

 

Have patience grasshoppers, this is t-bear signing off

The Mini Cooper

There is now, in our driveway, a Mini Cooper, which inhabits the parking space closest to the house.

With such a beautiful coat of a bright red sort, said car can be seen all the way across the already harvested tomato field.

Although it hasn't been stationed in that parking space for long, it has grown quite accustom to the comings and goings of it's black, dull neighbour.

The Mini Cooper is not driven very far and not for very long, but give it time and it will soar.

That beautiful red car with just one white stripe up the hood, tis a sight to behold. If only the purchaser of that beautiful red car could drive it farther than the triangle that she lives upon. There will come a day; the world best be ready.

 

Happy practising, this is t-bear signing off

QOTD

TOOLS, Part 3

Toronto Ontario Opportunities for Learning and Service

 

Day 3 - October 5, 2014

Sunday morning was a rather dreary time for the group. Not many of us had accomplished a lot of hours of sleep as the pipes persistently sang the song of their people. We were up a little earlier than Saturday morning and were not very excited about it.

We were essentially zombies as we dressed, packed our belongings and proceeded to the kitchen for breakfast. Pete, however, had apparently received too much sleep, he was rather annoyingly cheerful.

I thought, being up so early, that we would be "on the road" as soon as possible. Instead, we spent a while around the kitchen table chatting about everything that we had learned over the weekend, the things that surprised us and those that we had expected.

I definitely did not expect Pete to put us on Yonge Street and say "be free". He didn't even accompany us to visit with our street friends. I never would have imagined doing that. Most of the group hadn't been expecting that. We were all thinking we would be working in soup kitchens and volunteering all weekend. Fortunately, we were wrong because we learned a lot more walking down the street.

After our chat around the kitchen table, we started off to Queen's Park. I don't actually think that's exactly where we were supposed to be. We had been stopped by a wonderful police officer who informed us of the television show Suits filming up ahead. As we were on a street car, something from Toronto, with the show being based in New York, we couldn't pass by until they had finished the shoot. All this excitement led to conversations among the group about who had seen famous people and where. This led us to miss the stop that Pete had been planning to get off at.

Instead we got off at Queen's Park, right in the middle of some sort of breast cancer fundraiser run. We walked a little ways on the sidewalk beside the runners/walkers and came about part of the University of Toronto. The whole purpose of these travels was so that we could see a statue/sculpture of Jesus.

We had been told that we would be visiting the statue of homeless Jesus during our trip to Toronto, but I must be honest, I didn't not expect what I saw. I thought there would be a nice tall Jesus standing with homeless people or maybe Jesus caring for a homeless person. Instead, we find Jesus, actually homeless, curled up under a blanket, laying on a bench.

The statue is so much like a homeless person that I didn't notice it at first. When you walk down a street you aren't normally looking for homeless people, but when you see one sleeping on a sidewalk, trying not to be noticed, you usually pass by without disturbing them. We came upon homeless Jesus and I actually thought that this was  a homeless person sleeping on the bench. I had not expected that at all. What I had noticed, and what Pete pointed out is that the only place on the bench for someone to sit is at homeless Jesus' feet.

When we had finished visiting homeless Jesus, we got back on the street car and headed towards the place where we would be eating lunch.

There is a church (I believe it's a church) that cooks meals every day for poor people. Pete stressed that these people aren't necessarily homeless, they just don't have enough money to put a good meal on the table most days. For $1.00 a meal, per person, they can come to this church to eat. We were not there to help prepare the meal. Instead we were put into groups and had to eat with the rest of the people.

I sat with a mother and her three children. I had a lot of entertainment during the meal because two of her children are three year old twins. We needed to eat quick so that when we were done someone else could take our spot at the table. They were only open for an hour around lunch time.

After lunch we met in the chapel area of the building for a little prayer time. This brought us to the end of our time with Pete. He was praying for us, for the weekend and everything we had learned, and then sending us on our way.

We returned to our host church to gather our belongings and then got back on the street car towards the Eaton Centre.

Some of the youth in our group have family members who live in or around Toronto who came for a visit. We set up camp in the Starbucks in Chapters, piled all our bags in a corner and took turns shopping. In my case, window shopping, although I did buy a lovely new watch.

We took turns going to the food court to grab some supper for the train and then gathered our belongings again.

We arrived at the train station with about half an hour before our train left and were already getting in the boarding line. The train route that we took is usually a quite popular one so we were not alone in line. In other words, the line was very long.

I sat with the empty seat beside me again but not for very long. Before we left Union Station I was greeted by a lovely woman about the same age as me. After talking for a bit we found out that she was originally from Russia. Then I mentioned that my great grandparents came from Russia. I had to do a lot more explaining when she asked if they speak Russian. She was very confused that these people who came from Russia spoke mostly German. Mennonites, can't take them anywhere.

We arrived in Windsor about fifteen minutes after our ETA which was much less of a delay than I thought it would be.

With our bags packed into the back of the mini van we were on our way home.

It was late and everyone was tired but I think we were all very glad that we had decided to be a part of the TOOLS trip.

If you want to hear more about our trip, I suggest you be in church on Sunday.

 

Mennonites returning to the home front, this is t-bear signing off

TOOLS, Part 2

Toronto Ontario Opportunities for Learning and Service

 

Day 2 - October 4, 2014

On Saturday morning; five teenagers, one young adult just out their teenage years, and one adult were all woken a little earlier than is normally preferred on a weekend. Breakfast was at 9:00am; and if you didn't eat, then I guess you didn't eat.

We were on the road by 10:00am (by on the road I'm sure you know I mean walking) after a brief tutorial from Pete entitled, How to Approach a Person on the Street. We were all ready for some people meeting and coffee buying, and were definitely not sure what to expect.

With the help of public transportation, we were transported to Yonge Street which is a very busy place to be on a Saturday morning.

Pete split us up into groups; I led one, our pastor led the other, and then gave a very cheerful "this is where I leave you, have fun" smile and wave.

There we were. On Yonge Street with nothing to do but meet street friends (homeless people).

I have to say, I was nervous; and I told my little group of youth this, many times.

We got the "good side of Yonge Street", according to Pete. However, we had a great difficult time finding anyone to sit and have coffee with.

Finally, we came upon Jim who is a wonderful soul. He was playing the harmonica when we approached him. I must say, he played that harmonica much better than I ever could.

We sat with him for about 10 minutes while he told us his story. One of the youth immediately offered to buy him a coffee and it was helpful because we were conveniently situated next to a Tim's.

After we had heard Jim's story and gave him a little money for his excellent harmonica playing and wonderful story time, we continued down Yonge Street in search of more street friends.

It is rather interesting how many more people you see sitting on the street asking for money when you are actually looking for them. On some of my other trips to Toronto I had seen street friends but I was never really seeking them out.

We met a few other street friends and a lovely gentleman named Ross, who isn't homeless but a rather fine carver nonetheless. Some street friends were very friendly and eager to have us sit and talk with them, others did not want anything to do with us. We had to pick our battles and I think we came out on top in the end. I believe we brightened more days than dimmed, that is a success to me.

After we had met up at Dundas Square and had a bit of lunch, we travelled (via public transportation) to the wonderful street of Spadina where there is a town within the city. Chinatown was our goal and we sure found it, in abundance.

Pete dropped us off on Spadina and did his "this is where I leave you, have fun" smile and wave again. As one group this time, we travelled through the crowded but cheerful streets of Chinatown looking for the three things that Pete had challenged us to find.

In the two hours we were given to explore, we visited about four bakeries, one shop where some of the youth tried some mystery meat, a cheese shop, a café, a "pet" shop (pet in quotations because they only had sea creatures of small sizes), and a grocery type store.

We met Pete for supper at a restaurant in Chinatown. He must have been hungry because he ordered about ten different plates of dumplings and one dish of some fried vegetables and chicken. At first I tried a few of each but then I realized how many plates there were going to be and then only took one from each plate. I learned to use chop sticks which was quite easy until I got to the mushrooms. One of my favourite things and I couldn't even pick them up. After a few minutes of struggling, Pete was kind enough to lean over and suggest that I stab it instead. That was much easier.

After the wonderful dinner in Chinatown, we travelled on another public transportation route to a church called Sanctuary, where we met Patrick.

We went on a walk with Patrick through the streets of Toronto. He took us to see the Aids Memorial and gave us a few things to look for when reading though all the names engraved on the plaques around the park.

I was again drawn to the fact that this huge memorial had been build in a park area where people could pass by and remember those who lost their fight with aids; while the memorial created for those who died on the streets is a few pieces of paper with names typed on them in a glass and wood casing.

Our walk with Patrick eventually led us to Tim's where we all warmed up with a hot drink while sitting in the food court listening to Patrick's story.

I had a hard time listening to Patrick tell his story because it isn't about a young boy with a happy family and lots of hopes and dreams. He had it rough, and that changed him for the better. I was very glad to be able to give Patrick a big hug after he had told his story. I felt like he had shared a part of his soul with us so that we would go out and change the way we live our lives to help change someone else's.

The hour was getting late and we were getting quite tired after being out all day.

We arrived back at the church around 11:00 and took some time to settle down before bed. For the youth this meant playing Heads Up on an iPad. I must say, I was an enthusiastic participant.

Pete had told us many times that he didn't want us to be doing too much volunteer work on this trip because we weren't necessarily there to help change what is going on, we were there to hopefully change our views and opinions to be able to help our little community back home.

We sure learned a lot that day and were quite ready to rest our heads in preparation for our last day in Toronto.

So, with more heavy thoughts and the sounds of little men banging on heated pipes, we laid our heads down for the second and last time.

 

Mennonites in the big city, take 2, this is t-bear signing off

TOOLS

Toronto Ontario Opportunities for Learning and Service

 

The previous post was a sort of lead-in to what I'm about to tell you. The quote I put as the QOTD on October 3rd was said by Pete who was our leader for the weekend.

 

Day 1 - October 3, 2014

On the rainy, cold morning of October 3rd I woke with a less than excited mind about the day. The forecast was determined that it would be rainy and cold for the rest of the weekend; no matter where you were in southern Ontario. I was not going to let that ruin the weekend though.

After a lovely visit with Oma, while she was having her house cleaned, I returned home to pack the rest of my belongings.

Not five minutes before I was about to leave, Moma got a text from someone in Africa who wanted to Skype right then. While I hadn't seen this person for a little over a month, I was rather anxious to see their face. I left with just enough time to pick up my pastor from her house and then four of the youth and arrive at the train station in Windsor at the ETA previously discussed.

Our train left at 1:45pm from the Windsor VIA station.

We were seven people and were placed in the back of the car where there were two groups of four seats. I was sitting beside the empty seat. While we were first boarding the train and after each stop, we were constantly reminded that that route was sold out and every seat was to be occupied.

Each stop I waited and waited for all the passengers to board to see who would be sitting in our group. We were hoping for a lovely conversationer who would be glad to sit with a group of young people just on their way to the big city for a big city adventure. We also made sure to note that the person could be one of those grump-a-lots who just hate the exuberance and shenanigans of the younger generation. We were very happy to be greeted by the former.  

We arrived in TO around 6:00pm (I think) and were quite hungry by this point. We were happy to find our friend Pete and get some food.

I don't think I was the only one who thought we would be going back to our host church for a nice evening of quiet activity and then an early bedtime.

Instead, Pete took us for a walk.

Our first challenge was to buy breakfast for seven people with $28.00. Keeping in mind that everyone would need to enjoy it and it would need to last us for two days.

We bought two loaves of bread (that was Jojo and my task), peanut butter, strawberry jam, two packages of juice boxes (apple and orange), and two apples per person. All this came in at $21.00 which meant we had extra money for activities later. I was quite glad that the youth were able to choose a meal together and that it was a decently healthy meal.

After we dropped our food off at the church, we went out on a prayer walk. We visited some of the areas of the city that are less shiny and well-known than those that people usually go to Toronto to see.

We visited the Aids Memorial, compared it to the Homeless Memorial and even took a walk down Church Street. If you ever get the chance to take a walk down Church Street, make sure you enjoy the bright colours, the rainbow flags, and don't forget to understand what all of it means.

Around 10:20pm, which is past my bedtime, we stopped for a snack. Some people really needed ice cream, we found frozen yogurt instead, which is kind of the same thing. Pete and I went over to Tim's. I didn't think my tummy would enjoy eating frozen yogurt so late at night and then trying to sleep afterwards.

We finally started on our way home after our little tete-a-tete in the food court near the Tim's.

The evening walk and prayer time had given us all an idea of what we would be doing for the rest of the weekend. We were all glad to get back to our host church to rest our heads for the night.

I'm not sure if any of us were prepared for the next day, but we would have to face it sooner or later. So we attempted sleep with heavy thoughts and sounds of a dying smoke detectors batteries.

 

Mennonites in the big city, this is t-bear signing off

QOTD

That is a building.

You are the church.

Be the church.

this is t-bear signing off

Books

If that isn't the truth, then I don't know what it is.

I currently have a five shelved bookshelf with 117 books on it and 8 that have been borrowed out and will need to somehow be returned to these overflowing shelves.

 

There are 10 books sitting atop the Hoosier cabinet between Batman and Superman bookends.

 

Distributed between three shelves on the Hoosier cabinet there are 49 books.

 

This, my friends, is not a problem. It's an addiction.

 

If you chatted with my mother she would make it clearly known that there is no need for more books. I must object. There is always need for more books.

 

Over the years I have continued to request Chapters/Indigo gift cards from Santa for Christmas. With list in hand, I enter the store with much more book money than is needed, but walk out with a much happier soul.

 

A common piece of dialogue I have been forced to endure:

 

Spoken like a true book addict.

 

However, I do believe Mr. Jefferson said it best:

 

 

 

I do not deny that there are other important things in life, but I just love books so much. I can't really contain my excitement when I enter a book store. There is something so very magical about all the different authors and thoughts all mixed together under one roof. I shall never be at home without a bookshelf or two.

Happy reading! this is t-bear signing off

QOTD

Writing a letter and sending it through the mail is something I don't know if I can let go of. There is something about the communication that a letter brings. 

Everyone has the ability to write a letter. We all have the ability to pour our hearts out through handwritten letters, but we don't all have the courage to.

this is t-bear signing off

Our Big Roadtrip Adventure

Friday, September 12, 2014
After a rather successful day at work I was quite prepared for the three and a half hour travel, by car, to the wonderful city of St. Catherine's.

Alex and I had everything packed into the car and were ready to go at about 6:00 in the evening. We had plans to stop for a light supper at a service center off the 401 highway and then continue on our way. We proceeded, with much excitement and a rather loud stereo, from our humble abode into the great known, or so we thought. 

The traffic wasn't anything unnecessary. We were moving along at an excellent pace and weren't worried about having to drive along the QEW in the dark. We didn't anticipate there being too many other chipper traveling folk out at that time.

Everything was going according to plan until we were just off the 401, traveling along the 403 at a more than generous speed. We had just started talking about getting near the Lincoln M. Alexander Parkway when we saw the taillights up ahead of us. We came to a stop and then began to creep along at a pace slower than that of a turtle. 

We informed our destination that we were at a slower than slow crawl, to ensure they wouldn't get too worried about our current location. We thought that there was construction ahead or maybe an accident and would be on our way as soon as the construction vehicle got on it's way or the gawkers stopped gawking. 

After about half an hour we were starting to get a little concerned about our present state. We had barely moved. Every time I stuck my head out the window to check if we were almost past it all, I just got the same view of a semi-truck's rear end. We finally got to an area where we had to merge into one lane and we were sure that that meant the construction area was almost done. 

To our dismay, the "low coolant" light turned on and our engine began to overheat. We called our trusty mechanic father, Papa, who informed us that we should turn on the heat in the car to take away some of the heat from the engine. This was an excellent suggestion on his part, it worked just as he thought it might. However; it didn't work as long as we needed it too.
'Twas nearing 9:30 and we were passed the hour when we had originally thought we might arrive at our final destination.
As we were rerouted off the 403 to go around the construction area our engine began to overheat again. This time we pulled over to the side of the road to inspect the damage.
Sure enough, the coolant tank (if that's the correct term) was completely empty. Good thing I had about half a bottle of water left. Alex poured it in and we watched as it poured onto the ground from beneath the car.
This was the moment we started to rather dislike our situation.
As it turned out, we had spent a little too much time in the idle position. The radiator hose on Alex's car popped off and leaked all the coolant about the ground, causing the engine to overheat.
After about half an hour of Alex and I trying to reattached the hose while watching the sun disappear to complete night light, we thought it might be best to call CAA.
By then, it was about 10:00 and the air had a night time chill to it. My hands were starting to get really cold and we were running out of things to try to tighten the hose with.
CAA had informed us that someone would arrive at about 11:15 with a tow truck. So we had an hour to see what we could use to fix the car before we had to figure out where to tow it to fix it. We were getting a little worried that nothing would be open at such a late hour but we didn't really have any other choice.
The Wonderful CAA Employee arrived within half an hour of when I made the call, which was much faster than we had prepared for. He was not from the area so he didn't know where we could go that would still be open, and also have the supplies that we needed.
Being CAA members, we had 10 kms of free towing before we had to start paying. We drove for about 9.2 kms and when we couldn't find anything we pulled into a TSC parking lot to see if some mechanical wire would work. Unfortunately, that was a no go.
Without any more options, we suggested that the Wonderful CAA Employee just drop us off at the convenience store we had seen a little ways back. If they didn't have anything to help us we would call our destination for a pick up.
Once we arrived at the convenience store, Alex went into the store to see what they had and I stay to supervise the lowering of the car. The Wonderful CAA Employee lowered the car like it was his job to lower the car.
Alex returned from inside the store with a lovely surprise. He held within his hands a box of 50 zip ties and two large bottles of water.
Some of you are probably thinking that that isn't very much of a lovely surprise. Let me tell you something. When you're stuck on the side of a random road in a random countryside without the equipment to fix the only car you have with you, you will appreciate zip ties and water bottles.
We finally got the zip ties to hold the hose on tight enough and then but a couple bottles of water through before we were able to drive him off the lot.
The Wonderful CAA Employee was more than awesome with the whole situation. He stayed with us until we got the car working and then watched us drive off the lot into the great unknown.
All was well until we got back on the highway and the "low coolant" light turned on again. We got off at the next exit and put more water into the coolant tank. That seemed to work just fine because we didn't have any more "low coolant" lights on for the rest of the journey.
We will have arrived at our final destination earlier than we did if we hadn't had to take the Toronto exit onto the QEW since the Niagara ramp was closed. Thank you for letting us know ahead of time, that was very kind.
A few back roads later and we were back  on the QEW preparing to arrive and then retire for the night.
After such an experience, I don't suggest that you ever have your radiator hose pop off while traveling though unfamiliar territory. It is not as much fun as I made it sound.

Make sure you have zip ties, this is t-bear signing off

For all you hipsters out there...

I have compiled a list of all the "in" things of the current age. I would suggest that you study this list carefully and adjust your life accordingly.

To break the ice, I thought I'd start with this lovely comic from yesterday's calendar.

1. Dog sitting. Very in. If you're not doing it, I sure hope someone else is.

2. Mac n' cheese. No matter what form, it's in.

3. Crosswords. Widen your horizons and exercise your brain!

4. Chocolate. But is it really ever out?

5. Real estate. Because all of us are looking forward to Friday, August 29.

Let's be in, or risk standing out! this is t-bear signing out

Skillz

Within the past four days I have aquired two skills that are mandatory to lead a life of excellent quality.

1. How to knit.

2. How to smoothly and patiently release the clutch on a standard vehicle without resulting in a stall or jolt.

If you haven't learned either of these two skills I would suggest that you think about the direction that your life is headed.

Grab your rubber boots! this is t-bear signing off

QOTD

Let me tell you something about human beings. They judge other people to make themselves feel better. Life has become a competition. We compete against other people and, sadly, against ourselves. Society has created a world where it is important to be better than others. Better looking, more athletic, and tragically, superior in intelligence. 

Competitions easily lead to judgment being laid on the better party. It is becoming increasingly difficult for people to accept not being the best.

If something so common as competition can force such a large amount of judgment, when will it end? We will never be free from competition, which is why it's important for us to learn how to control our own judging and the judging of those around us. 

this is t-bear signing off

A Prayer of Peace

For anyone and everyone who has been affected by the unrest happening, not just in Israel and Gaza, but around the world.

As a pacifist Mennonite, I completely disapprove of disagreements that amount to war. We were not put on this earth to destroy each other but to "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'  This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" (Matthew 22:37-39) It is a simple text, yet it is the most difficult one to follow. The end result is peace at it's height, which is why we keep trying even when it gets hard. "The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." (Numbers 6:26)

 

God of mercy,

As the cycle of violence in Palestine and Israel repeats itself,

Our hearts break once again.

Even as we long to understand that which is often beyond our comprehension,

we lay before you the hearts, minds and bodies of all those suffering from conflict in the occupied Palestinian territory and Israel, and from the ongoing occupation. Shower upon all the people of this holy land the spirit of justice and reconciliation.

May weapons and war, apathy and blame be laid down.

May diminishing and demonizing of "the other" cease,

May there be acknowledgment of harms committed

May there be new energy for building bridges of understanding

May there be new efforts to address root causes of the violence

May there be new visions of a shared and peaceful future.

O God, whose heart breaks for the world,

May your justice dwell in the land

May your righteousness abide in fruitful fields

May the effect of righteousness be quietness and trust forever

May the effect of justice be peace - enduring peace.

Amen

 

Adapted from Prayer By Esther Epp-Tiessen, Public Engagement Coordinator for the Mennonite Central Committee Ottawa Office.

 

this is t-bear signing off

Netflix Payment

I am one of those who is under the curse known as "The Monthly Netflix Percentage Payment". Alexander has Netflix. I smiled nicely. I now also have Netflix. For the low monthly payment of $4.00.

If you or someone you know is currently in the same boat as me, please offer them this bit of advice that I have so thankfully acquired.

 

Netflix Payments should not be made by merely handing the collector a toonie or two and then continuing on with life. If you want to make sure the collector looks forward to collection day every month, you must be creative.

For example:

Last month, hypothetically, the collector was in need of his money and also conveniently in need of a snack. To the payors enjoyment, the payee likes peanut butter cups made by the wonderful President's Choice company. Therefore, the collector received a bag of peanut butter cups. (Please remember that this is all hypothetical and only an example.)

Example 2:

This month, hypothetically, the collector will be in need of a snack again. Instead of purchasing such a snack by yourself, you could just save up all those Superbucks from getting gas the past two months and make sure they add up to $4.00 before handing them over. Not only will the Netflix Payment be paid, your friendly neighbourhood Superstore will thank you for your contribution to their enterprise. (Again, just hypothetical.)

All I'm saying is, if you aren't creative the collector may see reason to deny your payment. This could result in a changed password and more secrecy between you and that person in your day to day lives. Just don't ruin a good relationship because of a boring Netflix Payment transaction.

 

Keep it classy, this is t-bear signing off

QOTD

After visiting Oma and Opa's house without them or their furniture inside, I am reminded of the fact that a home is just a building if it doesn't have any love in it.

this is t-bear signing off

I know...

...you're all expecting a post after the fiasco that went down this week.

Three posts in 6 days! No, it didn't suddenly dawn on me that I needed to write more. I just knew that all of you were on the edges of your seats waiting to hear about the books.

We'll see how this new arrangement works. Don't hold your breath (auto-correct thought that would sound better as breadth). Don't forget to live your own lives while you wait for posts.

Why are you watching?

Because I will write again.

Even if I didn't post.

I'll be the writer you deserve but maybe not the one you'll read right now. So you'll watch for a post because I can write sometimes. Because I'm not your hero. I'm a silent figure, a watchful entertainer. A write knight.

Breadth sounds better, this is t-bear signing off

The Arrival

They have arrived! I am in possession of the package of books. 

I was actually in possession of them yesterday, but I waited till today to tell you all about it to add some suspense to the whole situation.

It was rather an interesting task, receiving such package. I looked online on Monday and the Indigo website directed me to the Canada Post website. That's when I started to lose faith a little. If you know anything about the Canadian system, then you will know how bad the postal service has become in the last few years.

So, I was worried. 

To add to it all, the package was too big to fit in the mailbox so I had to get a slip in the mail that directed me to the nearest pick up station which just so happens to be your friendly neighbourhood Shoppers.

I arrived at Shoppers around 4:40 in the afternoon yesterday without the slip but with the barcode on my phone instead. I was hoping this arrangement would be good enough to obtain my package but I wasn't confident.

About 5 minutes later I was walking out of Shoppers with my parcel and a joyful smile upon my face. That was one wonderful afternoon!

My favourite book within the collection of fictional tales that I purchased is a book of fairy tales by The Grimm Brothers. It is such a beautifully created storybook! I am very excited to have it in my possession. You would also find it quite spectacular, Nicole.

Thrice in one, this is t-bear signing off

Mail Monday

The books have gone from "Awaiting Shipment" to "Shipping in Process".

This people, is progress. 

While I patiently await the arrival of my package, I busy my mind with the thoughts of Sarah Dessen. (I'm sure you wouldn't like her books Nicole so you don't have to read this part.) I am currently reading Lock and Key. It is one of my favourite books by her. However, it isn't as much of a love story as some of her other books. It is still quite an interesting storyline. I hope you will all take some time out of your busy life and read it. This includes you Nicole, if you're still reading.

Have a magical Monday! this is t-bear signing off

Two things

First of all, today was the second day this week that I gave in to my weaknesses and bought a book.

Actually, it wasn't just one book. I started with one $9.50 book and then I realized that that just wouldn't be enough to have free shipping, so I had to buy two more. I should expect them by next Friday. I'll keep you posted on their whereabouts.

I'm not sure where I'm going to put these books but they will be mine and that's all that matters. If you want to read one just let me know, I am happy to share. Just don't fold the cover, or write on the pages, or burn the book; that's not okay. I will also write my name inside the front cover so that you don't forget that it's mine.

Second of all, I have recently acquired two real estate transactions that will be closing within the next two months. Sue told me that I'm doing a wonderful job. I don't think she realizes that I know that, cause I always do a wonderful job. My name even sounds like wonderful. Well, not really. We can pretend that it does.

After such useful information, read this poem please.

Our generation will be known for nothing.
Never will anybody say,
We were the peak of mankind.
That is wrong, the truth is
Our generation was a failure.
Thinking that
We actually succeeded
Is a waste. And we know
Living only for money and power
Is the way to go.
Being loving, respectful, and kind
Is a dumb thing to do.
Forgetting about that time,
Will not be easy, but we will try.
Changing our world for the better
Is something we never did.
Giving up
Was how we handled our problems.
Working hard
Was a joke.
We knew that
People thought we couldn’t come back
That might be true,
Unless we turn things around

Now that you have been thoroughly depressed, read the poem backwards and be amazed by the mind of a 14 year old. I know I am.

Happy Friday! this is t-bear signing off





12 Things.

12 things you need to know about my trip to the south.

 

1. The southern accent is a real thing. Be careful how long you stay in the south, all of a sudden you'll find your accent start to change. Don't let it take you too!

 

2. Beware of the commercialization. Every little city or town that you pass on the interstate will have at least five, well known companies, each with their own sign raised so high that you can see if from a mile away. This isn't always a bad thing though, sometimes it helps to be able to spot the Bob Evans restaurants; if you happen to be counting them.

 

3. Alcohol can be purchased from your friendly neighbourhood grocery store. You can get your beer and bread in the same aisle. This is not a Canadian thing people. We have a LCBO for such necessities.

 

4. Just because the water is from the Atlantic doesn't mean that it will be as clear as the water in the Gulf of Mexico. Not that this is all bad, it's still an ocean which means the chances of spotting a dolphin are pretty high and you might even have to herd a pack of horseshoe rays back into the water.

 

5. Yoga on the white sandy beach is much more exciting than yoga in your bedroom by yourself.

 

6. Tacky Tourist T-shirts are a necessary purchase. Don't worry, I didn't let you down.

 

7. Don't forget to pack Aloe Vera. Or be smart and apply sun screen every half hour, like our favourite ginger. Our Canadian skin is not as durable in that hot summer sun as we thought it would be.

 

8. If you get the opportunity to travel to Covington, Georgia where they film The Vampire Diaries, go to Covington, Georgia.

 

9. The Peanut Shop in Savannah, Georgia is a wonderful place to purchase gifts for your family who you left at home in the Great White North.

 

10. Don't forget to stop at the information centres when you enter each state. It is quite helpful to know that you just passed the turn off that would have taken you to visited the place where Abe Lincoln was born.

 

11. If you don't normally stray too far from the county, the "foothills" of the Appalachians could probably be compared to Mount Everest. They certainly don't look like the ups and downs we have here.

 

12. You don't need a watch to know that it's time to read a book or eat some food. Just go with the flow. After all, you're on vacation. Unless you live there, then you aren't really.

 

Until next time, this is t-bear signing off

Packing

Packing is such a troublesome task. The entire time I feel like I'm forgetting something. Then I finish jamming everything into my suitcase and start to rationalize a little. 

I always start out thinking I'll pack only what I need or will use. Then my brain decides it needs to imagine every possible situation we could encounter along the way and pack everything that I would need in that situation. This usually creates a suitcase full of items that are dearly loved but unnecessary at the present moment. If I could pack my entire room into a magic bag like Hermione's I would have no problems at all. Alas, my life is not a novel, and magic isn't one of my extra fine abilities.

The little voice in the back of my mind will often show itself when I'm packing and make suggestions that seem very respectable, at the time. Then I have to remind myself that we are going south and no matter how likely I believe a snow storm is, I do not need to bring a parka.

Good thing the sensible side of my mind knows when to show up.

Wish me luck! this is t-bear signing off

Life is too short to...

Life is too short to:

- take a selfie every day

- sleep in till noon

- work a job that you hate for 30 years

- not eat ice cream whenever you want to

- spend too much time in reality
- have limits
- forget to get Papa a present for Papa's Day
- live outside of the moment
- wear socks while sleeping
- not hug, ever
- grow up...completely
- eat water chestnuts

I hope this list has been helpful to all of you who were of the opinion that life is long. If I were you, I'd print off a copy of this list and take it everywhere with me.

Don't Forget to Be Awesome, this is t-bear signing off

Fingers

Just some paper, a ribbon, and ten fingers that fly across the keys too fast for their own good. If only the fingers could fly as fast as the thoughts trying to escape. But those thoughts are the reason for the whole affair. Without the thoughts the story wouldn't be, and the fingers wouldn't be needed. But we like the fingers, so we'll keep them.

WOTY

Word of the Yesterday

Hotchpot

—noun Law.

1. the bringing together of shares or properties in order to divide them equally, especially when they are to be divided among the children of a parent dying intestate. 

Imagine

Let's imagine together...

Imagine a world where there are no books.

Imagine a world where cats make all the rules.

Imagine a container of ice cream that never melts.

Imagine a group of people who don't cause drama.

Imagine the Internet just blacked out one day.

Imagine the chaos that would follow.

Imagine that the cost of living could keep people living.

Imagine the peace that could exist.

Imagine a world where politicians cared more about bettering the lives of the citizens than competing for the top spot.

Imagine you could travel through time.

Imagine the places you would go, and the people you would meet.

Imagine this was all real.

Wouldn't that be a weird world.

this is t-bear signing off

Dear Readers:

This one's for you guys.

It's a holiday today in Canada, Victoria day. As I am now the wonderful employee of a prestigious law firm I am part of the select few who are able to take such holidays and run with them. If you are also a resident of Canada and you have a holiday today, I suggest you take it and run with it.

Below I have listed some wonderful holiday Monday ideas which I hope you will find very helpful in your future endeavors.

1. Today is a fun day to do yoga. I have already done my sun salutation today, please make sure you do one also.

2. Don't forget to be awesome.

3. Make a pan of Chipit Squares.

4. Eat the pan of Chipit Squares with your friends.

5. Read at least one page in the book of your choice.

6. If you have an hour or two of free time, please read the whole book.

7. Assist your cat in having a most wonderful day.

8. Listen to the Piano Guys.

9. Have a Harry Potter marathon.

10. Refer back to #2.

11. If you really can't think of anything else to do, refer back to #2.

In the end, I hope you just have a wonderful day filled with all the things a holiday Monday should offer. 

If you're looking for a book or series to read I would suggest you check out the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan. If you love those books (this is not hard to do), then I suggest you look into the spin off series, also by our good friend Rick, The Heroes of Olympus. Both of these series will have you at the edge of your seat, just be careful you don't fall off.

Happy Holiday! this is t-bear signing off

The things I learn at work:

1. Whilst working at reception, one must be careful how large of bites they take of their apple pieces, for fear that a client will call.

2. The end of the Chicago Fire season finale is just a Chris conversation away.

3. Parking at the lot around the corner is all fun and games until there's a storm.

4. Watch out for Chris' dreams, they may become reality and then you'll be less one typewriter.

5. Elizabeth's phone is not so easily persuaded into "forward" mode.

Lily Bean and the Bag of Tricks

The bag itself was not a trick and it didn't contain a trick. Getting the bag, that was the trick.

The Prize was what the bag held. Lily Bean liked to see how many times a day she could be in possession of the Prize.

Lily Bean knew how the system worked. She had been tracking the movements of the Prize Givers and was confident she knew what they were thinking. When the Prize Givers started towards the ledge she would approach with the utmost stealth and gather a most convincing visage. The ledge held the bag, the bag held the Prize. 

The table sat beside the ledge and was a perfect place to sit and look cute. Lily Bean knew that if she sat on that table near the ledge and looked cute and cuddly, the Prize Givers would graciously award her cute and cuddliness. After all, she deserved the Prize.

The greatest trick was being able to convince a Prize Giver that she hadn't already been gifted with the Prize that day. This was an accomplishment that Lily Bean had been working on since the first day she had been given the Prize by a Prize Giver. 

Today, Lily Bean was going to take a completely different path. Instead of the Prize being a small amount just once that day, she was going to convince the Prize Giver to leave the bag on the table beside the ledge. Her best trick yet.

Treat yourself today, this is t-bear signing off

SPOILER ALERT!

I say "spoiler alert" because parts of the story will actually be revealed to you. If this would greatly distress you then I suggest you look elsewhere for a juicy piece of entertainment.

 

Emma by Jane Austen

As previously discussed, Emma is a spoiled brat and remains so for a majority of the novel. I was rather worried that she wouldn't be able to come out of such habits.

She unkindly treated her friend, Harriet, by supposing that Harriet needed a husband more awesome than our good friend, Robert. She was too busy making matches of everyone else that she forgot to check herself, and more than once created an awkward scene involving the arrival of her proud opinions. Emma's objective of finding every person married at a respectable age was so distracting for her that she didn't anticipate Mr. Frank Churchill or Mr. Knightley.

More than once Emma conveys an idea involving a match, and more than once that person ends up to be in love with someone else. It seemed like too many people were leaving their words to be guessed at and this is where the problems arose. Without fully explaining themselves, they gave Emma the wrong idea which in turn, gave the reader the wrong idea. I see what you did there Jane, and I don't like it.

Our dearest Emma was able to redeem herself in the end, but only with the help of a most obliging Mr. Knightley.

Although I had my fair share of dislike towards our most forward heroine, I rather enjoyed the story of Emma.

 

After all, who doesn't like a good love story? this is t-bear signing off

My life...

...is in order.

For now I guess. We'll talk again in a few months.

When I was first offered the job, I called the office manager to accept the proposal. I told her that I would need a week to get my life in order before I could come in to work. She was all for that. Here we are at the end of the week I took off, and I've got my life in order.

I will start work on Monday at the law firm I did my co-op at, and in two months I'll graduate from an established institute of higher learning.

I have nicely whittled down my tax return money to a grand $80, which will graciously get me through the next two weeks till my first payday. I'm not that concerned about the low amount of money because I have self-control, which is one of my best assets. 

I also have a wonderful wardrobe for such a fancy pants job. The new wardrobe is in league with the empty bank account.  I am of the belief that one who starts a new job on Monday should look fly. 

We are still working on Emma. I'm not sure what else to say about it, she hasn't really improved her attitude yet. I fear the end is near and the resolution won't be quite clear.

Let's not be gloomy because of the rain today, I have a feeling it's going to be a good one.

Smile! this is t-bear signing off

Freedom is Sweet

After 14 months of classes, 6 months of co-op, 4 reading weeks, 21 courses, 34 exams, over 50 assignments, multiple interesting friendships, and lots of delicious food; I'm about ready to sit down and read a novel.

That's right folks, I have completed my college education, and it feels glorious!

Let the record show that on Thursday, the 17th day of April, 2014 at approximately 3:51pm, I finished writing my last exam of my post-secondary education.

With the ending of school I have been safely transported back to my big home and settled in quite nicely. All of my things are unpacked but the boxes are still around to be cleaned up.

While unpacking I discovered a wonderful occurrence upon my bookshelf. It was not actually as full as I thought it was. This means that I was able to fit more books on it without having to stack so many. However, all the books still don't have homes so I'll continue to work on that.

I was able to fit some of the books on the very top of my Hoosier cabinet. You may be asking yourself, "how is this possible? I thought the Hoosier cabinet was flat on top, how will the books stand?" Well, I have recently been gifted a pair of bookends which easily complete any fans Hoosier cabinet roof. They are a rather super gift given to me by Alexander and my (not Nicool's) Bestie, Emma. I shall cherish them forever.

I know you're all dying to know what they are of. Well, the right one is a beautiful sculpture of Superman and the left one is a perfect portrayal of Batman.

Oma told me that since I now have a big girl job I'm going to have to let go of this Batman craze. I told her that I plan on putting a large Batman poster on the wall right beside my desk. She was not very pleased.

If you're keeping up with my reading, we are now on to Emma, another Austen classic. Watch out though, the Emma in the story is not like any of the Emma`s you know. She is rather rich and snobbish and just not the heroine a story desires. There is still loads of time, maybe she`ll be able to change her attitude before it`s too late.

Ciao for now, this is t-bear signing off

4 weeks

That's it. Only 4 weeks before my partying days in college are finished. I would be rather excited about being able to spot the end, but it's hard to be with all the end of the year assignments I have to devote my valuable time to.

For example. this afternoon I have been busying myself with a case brief for criminal law. It is oh so exciting.

In the next four weeks I have; 7 major assignments due, 7 final exams to rock the socks off of, and 16 episodes of Suits to watch before I am without Netflix. It's gonna be a rough one, the skies are darkening by the minute.

In other news, I just found out this morning, while observing my literature calendar, that I only have 15 days left of being 19. I think this calls for a celebration. Just let me fit that in between this assignment and that exam. The only thing I asked of my dear friends, is that they take me to see the new Cap'n 'Merica film which is released on the 4th, very conveniently two days before my birthday.

If you're not reading anything right now and are looking for something else to read, might I suggest Pride and Prejudice. I'm reading it again and I must say, it is just as wonderful as it was the first time around.

 

Happy "spring", this is t-bear signing off

War of the Seasons

After the high intensity interval training that I participated in this morning I didn't really want to leave my house again, but I had to attend class.

I was greeted by the sun as I stepped outside. I then checked the temperature on my iPhone and it said 7 degrees Celsius. 7 degrees! That's almost summer!

I greatly appreciated the little hint from my subconscious telling me I should put on the rubber boots instead of the winter ones. There were puddles everywhere from all the melting snow.

In class, at the break, Meghan announced that she was going to Timmies, so I tried to give her money for a white hot chocolate but she wouldn't take it. Don't worry, the money is sitting at the bottom of her purse. I asked her what she would do if I won off that cup and she said share, but I informed her that we had never made such an agreement. Unfortunately, I did not win.

I was in class for an hour and a half. I stepped out the door and was hit by a lovely bitter wind. To make matters worse, the sun had departed behind a large cloud and didn't look about to budge any time soon. That's the Canadian winter for you, sunny one minute and foul the next.

At least I have something to look forward to. At the end of the week my cousin, Nicool, is coming for a visit. YAY! We are going to the box sale to get books!!!

I also get to see my Bestie, Emma, which is rather wonderful news.

It is sure to be a pleasurable ending to a very busy week.

In other news, I have recently acquired an iPhone and a new plan which has, in various forms, long distance calling. I love this new component because it means I can call my mother whenever my heart desires. My mother also loves this component.

Happy Monday, this is t-bear signing off

My birthday list...

Dearest Moma:

For my birthday I want:
- 2 hours of playing a board game;
- ice cream cake of delicious proportions for supper;
- homemade pizza for dessert (preferably in the shape of a triangle);
- punch to drink;
- party hats;
- Batman plates;
- 20 balloons;
- family movie night;
- my whole family to share it all with; and
- a Mini Cooper (I won't be sharing that).

Love always,

t-bear

A Snowy Day

It's March 4th,
the snow is still falling.
On March 20,
spring will start calling.

It may seem far away,
but once it's here,
it's here to stay.
Have no fear!

I like to watch the snow descend,
but we could live without the cold.
The driveway has been shovelled so much,
it's starting to get quite old.

Don't worry,
warm weather is in sight,
with just a little faith,
and maybe some might.

Say hello to spring,
and goodbye to cold times.
This poem is so true,
all because it rhymes.

Happy Tuesday, this is t-bear signing off

GO CANADA

That's about all I have to say today.

How The Olympics Are Ruining My Life.

If the Olympics are on and you're trying to study, you might want to give up now. I've realized that the exciting world of legislative tribunals pales in comparison to the beautiful skating of our Canadian teams.

It's not just today. Yesterday the men's hockey game became more interesting than landlord/tenant studying.

I have five midterms from Wednesday to Friday and I have a feeling that's when all the exciting stuff is going to show up on the Olympics.

I need someone to come over, sit right next to me, and say "study" every time my attention starts to leave the page.

 

Going to study, I hope, this is t-bear signing off

Dearest Nicool:

Dearest Nicool:

You are so cool,

You definitely rule,

You would win any duel.

 

I wrote this poem especially for you on your special day. I know cards are usually preferred but I thought I would go for something out of the ordinary.

I hope your birthday became more wonderful by the men's hockey win, my day sure got better after hearing that. I always got a rolling pin today which makes everything seem much brighter.

I'm sure you don't need anyone to tell you to have cake today. You're the type of person who just knows that cake goes with birthdays. Well done.

 

The National Post today said:

 

If Your Birthday Is Today

Singer/songwriter/musician Peter Gabriel (1950) shares your birthday today. Because you are outgoing, dynamic and energetic, you love to seek out excitement and adventure. You are frank and comfortable in your own skin. (People are amazed at your uninhibited behavior, which for you is natural and healthy.) You always speak your mind. This year you will work hard to build or construct something important. If you do this your rewards will soon follow.

 

Doesn't that sound like a wonderful year! The National Post sure knows what it`s talking about.

 

Happy Birthday Nicole! this is t-bear signing off



Letting go.

Letting go is really hard for me.

I think this is why I have a difficult time dealing with change. With change there is always something that you have to let go of.

My grandparents will be moving from the house that they have lived in for 30 some years. They've never been more than a walk away. With this change I have to let go of the childhood that I had in that house. I have to let go of all the holidays and family gatherings we had there. I have to let go of what the future looked like, because now it's changing.

In four months I will graduate from college. I'm letting go of being a student. For the first time in 15 years I won't be going to class, but going to work.

While these changes haven't happened yet they still affect me now. It has been a while since I haven't been sure of what I will be doing with my life.

 

this is t-bear signing off

Today

My decision to start watching Downton Abbey was almost as wonderful as my decision to attend bail court for the majority of the daylight hours.

I also did all my laundry which is quite an achievement these days.

It was a good day, this is t-bear signing off

It's been awhile, i know.

So, funny story... it's not actually a funny story but "funny story" seems to be the socially acceptable way to begin an anecdote.
So, funny story, today while Sam and I were headed towards the stairs near the east side of the building going down to the caf, I was abruptly stopped at the calling of my name. It would appear that Julia, a friend I met on a cruise three years ago, attends the same college as I do.
Irrelevantly, the wind has decided to show us who's boss today, which isn't wonderful because there is fluffy snow atop every roof within sight. I am so glad I have returned to my little home safely and don't have to leave again until Monday morning.
In other news, I have discovered that strong fingers are not only helpful whilst typing on a typewriter but also when participating in the excellent sport of volleyball. Especially after one has not actually played volleyball in almost a year.
It is day 4 of my 5 Day Food Diary and I am quite proud of myself for actually remembering to fill it out. I feel as though I am either eating too much or describing my food too much, judging by the amount of lined papers I have already filled out. I will feel much better when Sunday rolls around and I don't have that feeling that someone's watching me while I eat everything.
On that note, the Bench had a wonderful cheesy garlic bread pizza on the menu for today. I may or may not have enjoyed a slice.
We have a Tassimo sitting on the counter, so I thought it would be fun to get some Cadbury hot chocolate for it. Then I opened the bag and found out that there are actually two of the little cups for each mug of hot chocolate. I don't know what to do now, I tried reading the box but it didn't help me any.
Lastly, I struggled through A Dance with Dragons and loved it dearly. I fear that George will sit down and begin to write the seventh novel and realize that he doesn't have any characters left because he has killed them all. I am currently reading The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey and I find it quite wonderful. It has a similar storyline to that of The Host, but I shall enjoy it nonetheless.


It's cold out there, stay inside, this is t-bear signing off

Off to school we go.

I moved in a little over a week ago and started classes last Monday. Over the course of the past week I have discovered that there are many new things around campus.

1. There is now a Subway in the school cafeteria, or servery as the sign above the door states.

2. The first years are an excellent bunch of people who get along surprisingly well.

3. There are three possible paths to take from my little home to the school. I take the one that is most convenient.

4. The pub has a new menu. I haven't been able to try it yet but I've heard it's quite wonderful.

5. I have classes in the HT building this year. This is not helpful on Wednesday morning right before lunch because all the wonderful smells from the Bench waft down to our classroom and cause a ruckus in my stomach.

6. There is now an express Timmies in the cafet...I mean servery. This is either good or really bad.

7. There is also a "bulk barn" in the servery. This is very bad.

8. The Bench now takes debit.

9. The elevator is just a slow as always which is great incentive to take the stairs.

I have also started my fitness class. We have covered two weeks of classes and already my glutes are feeling it. I have also been able to master the art of the modified push-up. I can proudly say that I did 14 push-ups in a minute yesterday.

I went for a walk in the neighbourhood over the weekend and I have discovered that there is a park at the end of the street! I have never lived down the street from a park before so this is such an exciting discover. I plan to visit said park frequently before I leave this neighbourhood.

The word of the day today is: hypothalamus. I learned that yesterday in fitness class.

Go find a park, this is t-bear signing off

Laughter...

is the same in every country, in every language, and in every heart.
Laughter is of joy and of humour.
It has the power to make one smile and it has the ability to make one cry. It is of no mind, yet it has it's own mind.
Laughter feeds the soul.


this is t-bear signing off

A story.

Dear Reader:

I have a story to tell you today. It is about the great unknown and the ability to accept that which is not yet known.

This story is not one that will make you cry or one that will make you laugh. It is precisely for information.

There was a child. She is no older than you or I, but is the perfect age.

This morning was a hard one for her. Although she knew of the task set before her, she was not sure she was prepared for it. There was stuff to be packed, goodbyes to be had, and one good au revoir to the bookshelf. She just didn't feel ready for it. Everything had come so quick this time and nothing was organized yet.

After a stressful half hour of packing too much stuff into the back of the little car, they were on the road.

There was a brief mournful goodbye directed towards the house of the much loved grandparents who had been lost in all the preparations and never received their much deserved goodbyes.

There was much laughter after the driver stated that all passengers should address a certain funny face towards the passengers of cars passing theirs.

There was embarrassingly loud, off key singing all around but neither passenger felt the need to be embarrassed because they were alone in the vehicle.

Finally, there was much distress and excitement. The distress was caused by a certain feeling that things could possibly not work out in her favour. The excitement was caused by the wonderful feeling that adventures lay ahead and she was going to be the one to embrace them, no matter what.

She was dropped off at the house with all her belongings and the reassurance that her brother would return soon with a friend.

What she didn't expect was the amount of people who were occupying the house at that moment. After introductions and a grand tour she was feeling better about her situation.

A shelf and mirror were installed upon her walls and she was left alone to evaluate her life.

She went to the mall with her brother and his friend and had a hard time keeping track of the brother.

She had a stressful time in the grocery store trying to collect her own items while apparently also collecting her brothers snacks.

She returned to her new little home after the mall and took some time to unpack her belongings. It didn't take long to get everything in it's place. Then she felt a little better about the situation. She sat down in front of the television to watch a show on Netflix.

Whilst in the middle of the first episode she was interrupted by the noise of her roommates. This is where things get interesting.

They brought in the groceries. At separate times they each approached her to ask if she had eaten supper or not. Then they each proceeded to tell her of the pasta with cream sauce that they would be preparing and if she would like to join them in eating it.

What she didn't know at the time is that those roomies are both culinary students and that the pasta tasted amazing. She thoroughly approves of the house choice.

After a day of stress and distress, excitement and enjoyment, she could safely say that things are much more put in place than they were when she awoke but fifteen hours earlier.

this is t-bear signing off