Eeeeeeek!!!!!

OMG!! Have I suddenly been transported to Australia (Hi Jacqueline!!)where the spiders are larger than life? This delightful creature is in my greenhouse and has taken up a pretty permanent looking residence.  I have never seen a spider like this in my life!  Those who know me well, know that I am not squeamish about bugs and am a big fan of spiders--"Spiders are our friends" is one of my pet sayings. But I wasn't at all sure, that I wanted to extend friendship to this one! I got on the Internet though to find out what it is and whether I needed to get the can of Raid out. There are about 1300 species of spider in Alberta (I didn't think there were that many) and this is a member of the Orb Weaver family and apparently isn't poisonous.  Still, I don't think I'll stick my hand in the web!!! And the good news is that it's so big, it can't sneak up on me!!!

For Clara

Clara Marie, August 8, 2003.

You were the much anticipated and already much loved goddaughter. You, your mom, and I had many adventures and experiences together that Spring and Summer. And I looked forward to a life of being your godmother and auntie. The day you were born was the most beautiful and the most awful day of my life. I couldn't believe that you were gone, what kind of cruel joke was being played on us all?  My heart broke for your parents and I wished then and have always wished that somehow I could take the pain from them. You were a beautiful girl and you remain a beautiful girl in my memories. When a ladybug visits me, especially in the middle of winter, or some unexpected time, or on Christmas Day, I know it's you, coming to say hi to Auntie Dianne. Always remembered, always loved, dearest Clara. ♥

Rest in Peace

 

Hazel Strang, June 29, 1921-August 7, 2011

Mom passed away in the early hours of this morning. Dave is leaving for Penticton in a couple of hours.  I was hoping that he might be able to see her before she died, although she was in a coma. But that was not to be. Mom was the best mother-in-law in the world and I am so lucky to have had her in my life.  When Dave took me out to Penticton in October of 1988 to meet his family--we weren't engaged yet--she said to Dave's Dad, "Meet you future daughter-in-law!"  I guess she knew and must have approved! And now her and Dad are together again. I love you so Mom and I will miss you forever.

Thank you Jolene, Diana, and Jacqueline for your prayers and thoughts.  Having such wonderful, caring friends means so much.  I love you all.

Sad, sad news

We got word this afternoon that Dave's mom had suffered a massive brain hemorrhage earlier today.  Her long time doctor says that she is not likely to survive. Dave is devastated.  I feel so bad for him, especially because he is not there and even getting a flight out there will be too late, according to the doctor. It's so shocking too that this can happen so quickly. The only bright spot is that we were able to be out there just a month ago for her birthday. I love you Mom, always.