Has everyone warmed up from that cold spell we had at the beginning of the week? my goodness those clouds on Monday looked like snow clouds and the temperatures went down to single digits. We definitely have changing weather but it's not global warming. At this rate we won't be getting anymore tomatoes. We've picked a few sweet million to go with the lettuce but I'm hoping there's more where they came from. The Saskatoon bushes under the netting ore looking food and I've heard that the wild bushes are loaded. the strawberries around here are not doing well and people have to drive to Winkler and further to get their fix of berries. The forecast is for hot weather towards the end of the week. Let's hope they're right.
Farewell
The Rosenfeld community wishes Pete Reimer adios and auf wiedersehen as he makes a big move to Winkler. He has made Rosenfeld his home for as long as I can remember and I've lived here pretty much my entire life. Pete will now call Winkler his home and we wish him an easy transition.
Progress report
With the drastic change in weather come aches and pains which I've never experienced before. Most of the injuries have healed from the outside but I guess the bones are slower. I just wish I didn't need a reminder of what will be the new normal for me. I wonder if living in Mexico will be in my future. Mind you, if the west coast continues with their hot weather, I could go move into the huge house that my brother Martin and Dorothy are building.
There's not much happening in Rosenfeld. Many families are camping and having lazy days. You'd think it would be quiet but the railroad crew is beeping, brumming and in general not conducive to having the occasional snooze outside on the swing.
If the weather cooperates I'm planning to take in the blues festival at the Altona Park on Saturday. It will mean packing a picnic lunch and sitting on a lawn chair for the day. Such a chore.
Thursday, 11 December 2014
July 10, 2014
Not much happening around town, everyone is enjoying the first week of summer holidays. It's a bright, sunny cool Tuesday morning and it's great to be able to open all the windows. The cookies are baking in the oven so the grandkids will be able to snack when they come over late this morning. The garden is beginning to look like a jungle and it's difficult to see where the actual vegetables are growing. Gabby and I will try to find the rows if it doesn't rain again today. The grass needs cutting twice a week unless a person wants to bale which might not be a bad idea; the grandkids have two sheep that always need food.
Now that school is out, I don't have much news. Many of the kids have swimming lessons and there are free swim passes available for Rosenfeld kids at the post office. I imagine the pools everywhere are full every day with the heat we've been having.
Railroad
We have a lot of activity on the tracks that run just west of the village Be careful crossing the tracks when travelling west on #14. Bunge in Altona has doubled in size and the railroad need to be upgraded to accommodate the increase in traffic.
Progress report
I've begun walking outside using walking poles and it's good as long as the ground is pretty level. I'm terrified that I'll twist my ankles; it would put me back into the wheelchair and nobody wants that. So I putter here and there, a bit more every day. There's always a book in my walker and the swing is always waiting. During the day the mosquitoes aren't too bad and by evening I'm too tired to be outside. The computer has absolutely been a lifesaver. I don't know what I would have done without it.
Now that school is out, I don't have much news. Many of the kids have swimming lessons and there are free swim passes available for Rosenfeld kids at the post office. I imagine the pools everywhere are full every day with the heat we've been having.
Railroad
We have a lot of activity on the tracks that run just west of the village Be careful crossing the tracks when travelling west on #14. Bunge in Altona has doubled in size and the railroad need to be upgraded to accommodate the increase in traffic.
Progress report
I've begun walking outside using walking poles and it's good as long as the ground is pretty level. I'm terrified that I'll twist my ankles; it would put me back into the wheelchair and nobody wants that. So I putter here and there, a bit more every day. There's always a book in my walker and the swing is always waiting. During the day the mosquitoes aren't too bad and by evening I'm too tired to be outside. The computer has absolutely been a lifesaver. I don't know what I would have done without it.
July 3, 2014
Isn't this weather something? The storm that went through on Sunday was like a winter blizzard with wind whipping the rain in big sheets of water against houses. We have been extremely lucky with only a few power glitches but much of the rest of the province is dealing with flooded basements. Without hydro the sump pumps don't work and the results are devastating. I'm so glad that we weren't camping but safe and sound in our house. Considering the amount of water sitting in ditches and yards, the mosquito situation is quite tolerable to this point. Who knows what I'll write next week.
Yearend celebrations
Rosenfeld students held a farewell program for the Grade6 class on Thursday, June 26. They will begin the new school year in fall at Parkside Junior High in Altona. Choirs sang and Mrs. Kathy Schroeder, Grade 6 teacher, with tissue in hand, said a fond farewell to each student. Mr. Jason Pilkington, principal, handed each student their certificate, congratulated them and wished them well.
School is back in session on Wednesday, Sept.3 Have a great summer.
Graduation
W.C. Miller Collegiate held their graduation ceremony on June 26 at 2 p.m. Former Rosenfeld School students graduating were: Ashton Cornelson, Kevin Derksen, Erik Dick, Erica Heppner (honour roll and citizenship), Delicia Dyck (honour roll), Nathan Smith (honour roll), Irvin Banman, Crystal Hiebert (honour roll), Scott Sawatzky and Anthony Penner. Delicia Dyck, Erica Heppner, and Nathan Smith also received scholarships. Congratulations from the Rosenfeld community go to all the students.
Progress report
After the rains we've had I may just have to learn how to run, from the mosquitoes that is. I have progressed to the point where I can manage with a cane in the house but I'm still too shaky outside and use the walker. We've invested in a car which is easier to get into than the truck and I've managed to go grocery shopping with Dave. My ankles are not painful as long as I don't overdo it and keep the walking in short spurts. My back is another story and in the words of my belated friend Mrs. Lang, "My back is killing me." But I've been told that this too shall pass. It may just take a couple of years. I'm hoping for a reprieve for the Friesen gathering which is scheduled for July 26. I missed the one last year and really would like to see my Uncle Abe and Aunt Anna.
For the time being I guess I'll have to start the 2,000 piece puzzle that has been stashed for a couple of years. With the rain and all, there's not much I can do outside. The strawberries need picking but we're not about to get stuck in the mud so the robins will be able to enjoy a fruit salad.
We're covering the Saskatoon bushes with a huge net and hope to get some of those for pie.
Yearend celebrations
Rosenfeld students held a farewell program for the Grade6 class on Thursday, June 26. They will begin the new school year in fall at Parkside Junior High in Altona. Choirs sang and Mrs. Kathy Schroeder, Grade 6 teacher, with tissue in hand, said a fond farewell to each student. Mr. Jason Pilkington, principal, handed each student their certificate, congratulated them and wished them well.
School is back in session on Wednesday, Sept.3 Have a great summer.
Graduation
W.C. Miller Collegiate held their graduation ceremony on June 26 at 2 p.m. Former Rosenfeld School students graduating were: Ashton Cornelson, Kevin Derksen, Erik Dick, Erica Heppner (honour roll and citizenship), Delicia Dyck (honour roll), Nathan Smith (honour roll), Irvin Banman, Crystal Hiebert (honour roll), Scott Sawatzky and Anthony Penner. Delicia Dyck, Erica Heppner, and Nathan Smith also received scholarships. Congratulations from the Rosenfeld community go to all the students.
Progress report
After the rains we've had I may just have to learn how to run, from the mosquitoes that is. I have progressed to the point where I can manage with a cane in the house but I'm still too shaky outside and use the walker. We've invested in a car which is easier to get into than the truck and I've managed to go grocery shopping with Dave. My ankles are not painful as long as I don't overdo it and keep the walking in short spurts. My back is another story and in the words of my belated friend Mrs. Lang, "My back is killing me." But I've been told that this too shall pass. It may just take a couple of years. I'm hoping for a reprieve for the Friesen gathering which is scheduled for July 26. I missed the one last year and really would like to see my Uncle Abe and Aunt Anna.
For the time being I guess I'll have to start the 2,000 piece puzzle that has been stashed for a couple of years. With the rain and all, there's not much I can do outside. The strawberries need picking but we're not about to get stuck in the mud so the robins will be able to enjoy a fruit salad.
We're covering the Saskatoon bushes with a huge net and hope to get some of those for pie.
June 20, 2014
I'm sending a wave to all my readers on this rainy Tuesday morning. I know that many of you are tired of the rain and the mosquitoes it brings but it's still great to be alive. There are many activities a person can do such as watch the raindrops hit the puddles or observe the mama and papa birds trying to satisfy the chirping babies who never seem to get enough. Before sitting down in front of the window, pop a pan of cookies into the oven and make a cup of coffee, call a friend to come over or call a sibling. Since my accident I have learned to pace myself and not run around in panic tying to finish a list which was never ending. So what if there are weeds in the garden. Some of them may be good for bees and butterflies.
The weather is also good for catching up on some reading and I enjoyed I am Hutterite by Mary-Ann Kirby. I don't know what all the controversy was about. The bookstores in Winkler and Altona cancelled her scheduled readings when the book first came out which puzzles me now that I've read it. I think that the author takes great care in trying not to offend the colonies and their way of life.
School updates
Rosenfeld Elementary School is holding their year-end celebration on Thursday, June 26 at 9 a.m. Everyone is welcome to come hear the kids sing out the school year.
W.C. Miller grad is taking place on June 26 at 2 p.m. at the Millennium Exhibition Center in Altona. I will include a list of grads form Rosenfeld next week.
Condolences
Abe Heinrichs, 78, of Altona passed away on June 18. the funeral service took place on June 21 at the Bergthaler Church in Altona with burial at the local cemetery. He was predeceased by his wife Jean. He leaves to celebrate his life : Greg/Lorraine, Audrey/Brad, Leanne and their families as well as many friends.
Abe loved to sing and was the choir leader in the Rosenfeld Bergthaler Church for many years. He was also involved with the group which sings at Eastview Care Facility. The Rosenfeld community sends thoughts and prayers to the family.
Progress Report
What to say at this point is beginning to get difficult. I am definitely getting around easier but progress seems to be extremely slow. I feel as though I'll never manage without a walker and some days it's very frustrating. The good thing is that as long as I don't overdo it, I have very little pain.
My sister Eva took me on many adventures last week which included a drive up to Gimli. The country is totally different that here at Rosenfeld. One evening at 10p.m. I was sitting in bed checking my e-mails when I felt as though I was being watched. Upon looking up out of the window, I saw four eyes staring at me. Two coyotes were on the yard appearing to be puzzled by what had happened to their space. Only last year it was bush and now this huge house had appeared with humans who had cats. Yummy, lunch. Eva has purchased leashes to tie her cats to the front of the garage during the day to prevent them from becoming dinner. I enjoyed my mini vacation very much.
The weather is also good for catching up on some reading and I enjoyed I am Hutterite by Mary-Ann Kirby. I don't know what all the controversy was about. The bookstores in Winkler and Altona cancelled her scheduled readings when the book first came out which puzzles me now that I've read it. I think that the author takes great care in trying not to offend the colonies and their way of life.
School updates
Rosenfeld Elementary School is holding their year-end celebration on Thursday, June 26 at 9 a.m. Everyone is welcome to come hear the kids sing out the school year.
W.C. Miller grad is taking place on June 26 at 2 p.m. at the Millennium Exhibition Center in Altona. I will include a list of grads form Rosenfeld next week.
Condolences
Abe Heinrichs, 78, of Altona passed away on June 18. the funeral service took place on June 21 at the Bergthaler Church in Altona with burial at the local cemetery. He was predeceased by his wife Jean. He leaves to celebrate his life : Greg/Lorraine, Audrey/Brad, Leanne and their families as well as many friends.
Abe loved to sing and was the choir leader in the Rosenfeld Bergthaler Church for many years. He was also involved with the group which sings at Eastview Care Facility. The Rosenfeld community sends thoughts and prayers to the family.
Progress Report
What to say at this point is beginning to get difficult. I am definitely getting around easier but progress seems to be extremely slow. I feel as though I'll never manage without a walker and some days it's very frustrating. The good thing is that as long as I don't overdo it, I have very little pain.
My sister Eva took me on many adventures last week which included a drive up to Gimli. The country is totally different that here at Rosenfeld. One evening at 10p.m. I was sitting in bed checking my e-mails when I felt as though I was being watched. Upon looking up out of the window, I saw four eyes staring at me. Two coyotes were on the yard appearing to be puzzled by what had happened to their space. Only last year it was bush and now this huge house had appeared with humans who had cats. Yummy, lunch. Eva has purchased leashes to tie her cats to the front of the garage during the day to prevent them from becoming dinner. I enjoyed my mini vacation very much.
june 12, 2014
Here it is Tuesday morning and what a beautiful morning it is. I usually do a quick walk-a-bout after my morning coffee and today Ann Winter, who is a morning walker, stopped by to join me. That's one nice thing about living in a small community, everyone chats. The irises are beginning to open and the peonies are in full bloom which brings waves of perfume while making my rounds. The garden is coming along, growing inches every day, at least whatever the cutworm isn't getting. Dave has added cucumber and watermelon plants due to those hungry critters: thank goodness the greenhouses still have some items. I am grateful to the ladies who called and give me information regarding the cactus photo last week. It was much appreciated and I've googled the orchid cactus for more information.
Fast runners
Some of Rosenfeld's former students did very well at the provincial track and field meet which was held in Winnipeg on June 6 & 7. Congratulations go to Nick Klassen, Erica Heppner and Thomas Wolfe on their achievements at the meet.
Baseball
There are families who go from cheering at the ice-rinks to cheering at the baseball diamonds almost overnight. One such family is Russ and Gladys Klassen. Brett went from playing with the Winkler Flyers to the Bison team while the other son, Angus moved from the Altona Maroons to taking the assistant coach position with the Bison's. Good luck for the season.
School update
The Rosenfeld School picnic will be held Wednesday, June 18.
A year-end celebration will be held Thursday, June 26 at 9 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Progress report
Okay, what's to say about the last trip to the surgeon? The CT scan showed that the left ankle is bone on bone and will need surgery sooner than originally planned. There is a change in the surgery due to this prognosis which results in the ankle needing to be fused. The decision is entirely mine and hinges on how much pain I can tolerate and my coming to grips with the fact that my ankle will no longer bend. My thinking is let this take place, the sooner the better because I'm not going to miss going to Mexico another winter. My next appointment is the beginning of August so till then I'll hobble around the best I can. I was so sorry to miss the Mitchell garage sale which had become an annual activity.
But I have an angel, Carol Schroeder, who takes me for drives and Monday we travelled to Reinfeld to see friends Peter and Katharina Fot. The Fots had made a trip to Germany to see family and I'm always interested in travel stories. Carol and I enjoyed the brunch and friendship and made our way home not needing lunch.
A note to all my faithful readers - I will not have a column next week. I'm going on a mini-vacation to my sister Eva's house in Selkirk.
Fast runners
Some of Rosenfeld's former students did very well at the provincial track and field meet which was held in Winnipeg on June 6 & 7. Congratulations go to Nick Klassen, Erica Heppner and Thomas Wolfe on their achievements at the meet.
Baseball
There are families who go from cheering at the ice-rinks to cheering at the baseball diamonds almost overnight. One such family is Russ and Gladys Klassen. Brett went from playing with the Winkler Flyers to the Bison team while the other son, Angus moved from the Altona Maroons to taking the assistant coach position with the Bison's. Good luck for the season.
School update
The Rosenfeld School picnic will be held Wednesday, June 18.
A year-end celebration will be held Thursday, June 26 at 9 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Progress report
Okay, what's to say about the last trip to the surgeon? The CT scan showed that the left ankle is bone on bone and will need surgery sooner than originally planned. There is a change in the surgery due to this prognosis which results in the ankle needing to be fused. The decision is entirely mine and hinges on how much pain I can tolerate and my coming to grips with the fact that my ankle will no longer bend. My thinking is let this take place, the sooner the better because I'm not going to miss going to Mexico another winter. My next appointment is the beginning of August so till then I'll hobble around the best I can. I was so sorry to miss the Mitchell garage sale which had become an annual activity.
But I have an angel, Carol Schroeder, who takes me for drives and Monday we travelled to Reinfeld to see friends Peter and Katharina Fot. The Fots had made a trip to Germany to see family and I'm always interested in travel stories. Carol and I enjoyed the brunch and friendship and made our way home not needing lunch.
A note to all my faithful readers - I will not have a column next week. I'm going on a mini-vacation to my sister Eva's house in Selkirk.
Wednesday, 10 December 2014
June 5, 2014
Have you ever had a day when it feels as though you mind is in a blanket of fog? And no, I haven't been smoking that funny stuff. On a rainy day I used to haul out the vacuum and clean house; this is not doable at this time so I puzzled this morning. I know this is something totally useless so I made up for it and baked buns this afternoon. Oh and I also ironed which I do sitting down on the job. I never would have thought this was doable but since my accident have found that many things can be done while sitting. While I'm writing the column Monday afternoon. we are having a drizzly day which I'm sure not many people would have chosen but there is not a thing anyone can do about it. The climate changes every day without anyone here on earth in charge. Thank goodness.
Blue booties
First time parents Ben and Tanya Penner are proud parents of a baby boy. Kyle Mason was born May 26 at Boundary Trails Health Center. He weighed in a t 6 lb. 14 oz. and is 20 inches long. Paternal grandparents are John and Helena Penner of Altona and maternal grandfather Ed Stoesz of the Altona area.
Tanya was one of the many nurses at Boundary Trails who cared for me at the hospital. I sincerely wish her and her husband the best as do the Elmer and Neta Penner family of the Rosenfeld area.
Spring Tea
When arriving at Rosenfeld School on the morning of May 28, guests were escorted to their seats and encouraged to help themselves to tea, coffee and dainties. At 10:30 a.m. the students filed in and the entertainment began. The Grade 1 class recited a poem on the hazards of saying yes to every volunteer request. Then the Grade 4-6 choir had everyone in smiles with a an Irish jig number and Mama Don't Allow; which is a traditional southern folk song. Not to be outdone the Grad 1-3 choir performed three numbers. closing with The Baby Baboon Loved the Blues which had everyone doing the boogie- woogie. Jackie Harms, Grade 2 teacher, called on Roxanne Friesen and thanked her with presentation of flowers for her many volunteer hours. The audience was entertained with more singing and the Grade 5 class gave a PowerPoint presentation on the school recycling program. The Grade 4-6 choir gave super rendition of One World which was followed by the closing by Mr.Pilkington, Principal.
The emcees for the morning were the Grade 6 class, the beautiful decorations were made by the Grade 1, 2 and 4 classes and the yummy goodies were baked by the Grade 1's, 2's and 3's. The choir leader and Grade 6 teacher with the help of pianist Sheryl Peters and drummer Bowen Cornelson gave us the musical portion of the morning. Kudos to everyone for the great morning.
That's it for this week. I have an appointment this afternoon at HSC and we'll find out when the left ankle will be redone. Wish me luck, pray for me or cross your fingers; I'll appreciate any help.
We've had this orchid cactus for many years but this year it's spectacular.
Blue booties
First time parents Ben and Tanya Penner are proud parents of a baby boy. Kyle Mason was born May 26 at Boundary Trails Health Center. He weighed in a t 6 lb. 14 oz. and is 20 inches long. Paternal grandparents are John and Helena Penner of Altona and maternal grandfather Ed Stoesz of the Altona area.
Tanya was one of the many nurses at Boundary Trails who cared for me at the hospital. I sincerely wish her and her husband the best as do the Elmer and Neta Penner family of the Rosenfeld area.
Spring Tea
When arriving at Rosenfeld School on the morning of May 28, guests were escorted to their seats and encouraged to help themselves to tea, coffee and dainties. At 10:30 a.m. the students filed in and the entertainment began. The Grade 1 class recited a poem on the hazards of saying yes to every volunteer request. Then the Grade 4-6 choir had everyone in smiles with a an Irish jig number and Mama Don't Allow; which is a traditional southern folk song. Not to be outdone the Grad 1-3 choir performed three numbers. closing with The Baby Baboon Loved the Blues which had everyone doing the boogie- woogie. Jackie Harms, Grade 2 teacher, called on Roxanne Friesen and thanked her with presentation of flowers for her many volunteer hours. The audience was entertained with more singing and the Grade 5 class gave a PowerPoint presentation on the school recycling program. The Grade 4-6 choir gave super rendition of One World which was followed by the closing by Mr.Pilkington, Principal.
That's it for this week. I have an appointment this afternoon at HSC and we'll find out when the left ankle will be redone. Wish me luck, pray for me or cross your fingers; I'll appreciate any help.
May 29, 2014
I hope everyone is taking advantage of the sunshine. the Rosenfeld area received about half an inch of rain last weekend which was absolutely perfect. The seeds that Dave put into the ground are popping up including the potatoes. We haven't put out the pepper of the tomato plants yet but I have planted pansies into the half barrels in the flowerbeds. I may plant petunias today because the forecast is for more rain this weekend and that would mean that we wouldn't have to water; Mother Nature would take care of that job for us.
There's something else that has appeared and that is our Manitoba wildlife. the government made an announcement last week when it named our official fish. I think we should have an official insect and let there be no doubt about it being the mosquito. I was seen doing the swat dance yesterday' there were swarms of those critters around. It didn't take long for me to retreat to the swing on the deck which wasn't a bad thing. I needed a rest anyway.
Parent Council
The Rosenfeld Parent Council had had a busy year. This year's council members are: Sarah Sawatzky-chairperson, Lorena Wiebe- co-chair, Elma Zacharias - treasurer, Janet Hildebrand-secretary, Ashley Peters, Eva Peters, Andrea Friesen, Jackie Harms - Grade 2 teacher and Jason Pilkington- principal. They have planned and held the following activities: read-a-thon, movie night and a soup and pie supper. The movie night was not as well attended as the previous year but those in attendance enjoyed the evening very much. The soup and pie supper helped raise approximately $800 toward projects at the school. The only activity now in the planning stage is the annual school picnic which will be held at the end of June. All the council members with positions are new in their jobs but with the help of the other members are learning to organize the events. It's great to see this level of involvement and commitment to our school.
Progress report
I'm getting stronger every day and browner. It's not such a bad thing to sit and rest in the Manitoba sunshine. I'm attempting to do a bit of gardening but tire out quite fast and that means a hasty retreat to the swing of lounge chair. There's always a book to read, friend to chat with on the phone or neighbour's children to which which is quite entertaining. I an not looking forward to the next visit to HSC but if I'm going to have that ankle redone then it might well be sooner rather than later. It won't make any difference with the way I'm hobbling around.
There's something else that has appeared and that is our Manitoba wildlife. the government made an announcement last week when it named our official fish. I think we should have an official insect and let there be no doubt about it being the mosquito. I was seen doing the swat dance yesterday' there were swarms of those critters around. It didn't take long for me to retreat to the swing on the deck which wasn't a bad thing. I needed a rest anyway.
Parent Council
The Rosenfeld Parent Council had had a busy year. This year's council members are: Sarah Sawatzky-chairperson, Lorena Wiebe- co-chair, Elma Zacharias - treasurer, Janet Hildebrand-secretary, Ashley Peters, Eva Peters, Andrea Friesen, Jackie Harms - Grade 2 teacher and Jason Pilkington- principal. They have planned and held the following activities: read-a-thon, movie night and a soup and pie supper. The movie night was not as well attended as the previous year but those in attendance enjoyed the evening very much. The soup and pie supper helped raise approximately $800 toward projects at the school. The only activity now in the planning stage is the annual school picnic which will be held at the end of June. All the council members with positions are new in their jobs but with the help of the other members are learning to organize the events. It's great to see this level of involvement and commitment to our school.
Progress report
I'm getting stronger every day and browner. It's not such a bad thing to sit and rest in the Manitoba sunshine. I'm attempting to do a bit of gardening but tire out quite fast and that means a hasty retreat to the swing of lounge chair. There's always a book to read, friend to chat with on the phone or neighbour's children to which which is quite entertaining. I an not looking forward to the next visit to HSC but if I'm going to have that ankle redone then it might well be sooner rather than later. It won't make any difference with the way I'm hobbling around.
May 22, 2014
Hi there it all Carillon readers. I hope everyone had a great long weekend. I know that it rained on Monday but having two sunshiny days out of three is not bad. It gave everyone a chance to get out and become a redneck. Oh, I mean get a red neck or red arms or legs; you get my drift. Dave got most of the garden in on Saturday while I watched from my Cabela's lounger. The rain will have those seeds sprouted in in time.
I noticed that some of the other columnist reported on the arrival of hummingbirds. orioles and goldfinches and I would like to add that they have flown into Rosenfeld too. Dave quickly mad sugary water for the feeder and we were rewarded with a nature show of beautiful colours of arranges and whirring of hummingbird wings. We also had a flurry of goldfinches and chipping sparrows at the bird seed.
We had a phone call from friends Harvey and Barb Wiebe in Tugaske, Sask. and they reported that they received more than three inches on rain on the weekend. Now that we really don't want.
I haven't received any calls from anyone in the community concerning the activities of the parent council. I will try to contact a few more people to get and update before the school summer break.
Last call
This is the last call for marking the calendar fro the Miller Spring Concert which will be held on May 27 at Buhler Hall in Gretna and for the Rosenfeld School spring tea the morning of May 28. Everyone is welcome to enjoy both events.
Progress report
Dave and I travelled to Boundary Trails for my CT scan on my left ankle last Friday. My appointment was scheduled for 10:15 a.m. and we were a bit early. the technician called me into the room immediately and we were on our way out before 10; service was great. Now we wait to see what the surgeon will say on June 3. since this all went so fast we had time to stop the Winkler greenhouse where we picked up two big blooming tomato plants along with a few other items. I would love to get into the dirt but I have already experience the result of try so I'll just leave it to Dave. Between watching Dave, reading. swinging and chatting with the neighbours kids the afternoon passed much too fast.
On Sunday we had the pleasure of Jim and Judith Schellenberg dropping by with a fresh baked batch of cinnamon rolls which they had purchased at the Forks. Life can't get better than that; friends. coffee and food.
I noticed that some of the other columnist reported on the arrival of hummingbirds. orioles and goldfinches and I would like to add that they have flown into Rosenfeld too. Dave quickly mad sugary water for the feeder and we were rewarded with a nature show of beautiful colours of arranges and whirring of hummingbird wings. We also had a flurry of goldfinches and chipping sparrows at the bird seed.
We had a phone call from friends Harvey and Barb Wiebe in Tugaske, Sask. and they reported that they received more than three inches on rain on the weekend. Now that we really don't want.
I haven't received any calls from anyone in the community concerning the activities of the parent council. I will try to contact a few more people to get and update before the school summer break.
Last call
This is the last call for marking the calendar fro the Miller Spring Concert which will be held on May 27 at Buhler Hall in Gretna and for the Rosenfeld School spring tea the morning of May 28. Everyone is welcome to enjoy both events.
Progress report
Dave and I travelled to Boundary Trails for my CT scan on my left ankle last Friday. My appointment was scheduled for 10:15 a.m. and we were a bit early. the technician called me into the room immediately and we were on our way out before 10; service was great. Now we wait to see what the surgeon will say on June 3. since this all went so fast we had time to stop the Winkler greenhouse where we picked up two big blooming tomato plants along with a few other items. I would love to get into the dirt but I have already experience the result of try so I'll just leave it to Dave. Between watching Dave, reading. swinging and chatting with the neighbours kids the afternoon passed much too fast.
On Sunday we had the pleasure of Jim and Judith Schellenberg dropping by with a fresh baked batch of cinnamon rolls which they had purchased at the Forks. Life can't get better than that; friends. coffee and food.
May 15, 2014
We finally had a taste of what summer feels like. Last Saturday the sun shone, birds were sing and people got sunburned. And my goodness it felt good. I was out on my deck busy swinging and reading when on to the neighbours to the south took it upon herself to burn every leaf on her yard. The wind was from the south and soon our back yard was filled with, ah sweet smells of spring. Not, I hurried to get into the house and close the windows which were no longer filling the house with spring-like breezes. Some people say they like the smell of burning leaves, well, they have it. All it does is make my eyes water and give me swollen sinuses.
Field trip
The Grade 1&2 classes went to the Children's Museum in Winnipeg on May 7. In the morning they did an archeological dig with special tools in the ice to find artifacts. After lunch they explored the rest of the activities in the museum. Everyone enjoyed their time sharing new discoveries.
Bus trip
The MCI chamber choir boarded a bus and left on a road trip Wednesday, Apr. 30 with an overnight stop at Medicine Hat, heading for Calgary. The choir had been busy rehearsing songs at MCI but now they sang these songs with choirs from across Canada. Saturday the students were allotted free time and spent the day at the Calgary Zoo. On May 4 the choirs held a concert at the Ambrose University. The senior choir totaled 170 students and I'm told it was awesome.
On Monday they headed to Banff where activities included snowboarding and skiing or sightseeing and hot springs. It was light jacket weather in Calgary even though it snowed big snowflakes for four days straight. They began their return trip on Tuesday with a sleep stop at Regina and arrived back kin Gretna on May 7. Grampa Dave Wolfe was there to welcome granddaughter Gabby Wolfe back to Manitoba and give her a ride home.
Mark your calendars
The W.C. Miller Spring Concert will be held May 27 at Buhler Hall in Gretna.
Everyone is invited to the Spring Tea at Rosenfeld School the morning of May 28
Progress Report
Last week I wrote about my upcoming appointment at HSC with my surgeon on May 6. Dave and I did not expect the results that Dr. Pilkey gave us. The x-rays of the left ankle showed that the bone is not growing onto the filler which had been used to make up for the bone loss. I need to have a CT scan and if this confirms what the surgeon suspects then I will be back in surgery in the near future. We were both stunned and not very talkative on the ride home. I threw myself a pity party the nest day and cried a pail of water; maybe that's where the rain came from.
I've since come to grips with the situation and having such a great supportive family is a blessing. I hope all mothers had as great a Mother's Day as I did. the yunge Wolfes made lunch, we watched the MCI musical Godspell, which I could attend and then we enjoyed homemade pizza for supper. Life is good.
Take care on the roads this weekend' may the weather be sunny.
Field trip
The Grade 1&2 classes went to the Children's Museum in Winnipeg on May 7. In the morning they did an archeological dig with special tools in the ice to find artifacts. After lunch they explored the rest of the activities in the museum. Everyone enjoyed their time sharing new discoveries.
Bus trip
The MCI chamber choir boarded a bus and left on a road trip Wednesday, Apr. 30 with an overnight stop at Medicine Hat, heading for Calgary. The choir had been busy rehearsing songs at MCI but now they sang these songs with choirs from across Canada. Saturday the students were allotted free time and spent the day at the Calgary Zoo. On May 4 the choirs held a concert at the Ambrose University. The senior choir totaled 170 students and I'm told it was awesome.
On Monday they headed to Banff where activities included snowboarding and skiing or sightseeing and hot springs. It was light jacket weather in Calgary even though it snowed big snowflakes for four days straight. They began their return trip on Tuesday with a sleep stop at Regina and arrived back kin Gretna on May 7. Grampa Dave Wolfe was there to welcome granddaughter Gabby Wolfe back to Manitoba and give her a ride home.
Mark your calendars
The W.C. Miller Spring Concert will be held May 27 at Buhler Hall in Gretna.
Everyone is invited to the Spring Tea at Rosenfeld School the morning of May 28
Progress Report
Last week I wrote about my upcoming appointment at HSC with my surgeon on May 6. Dave and I did not expect the results that Dr. Pilkey gave us. The x-rays of the left ankle showed that the bone is not growing onto the filler which had been used to make up for the bone loss. I need to have a CT scan and if this confirms what the surgeon suspects then I will be back in surgery in the near future. We were both stunned and not very talkative on the ride home. I threw myself a pity party the nest day and cried a pail of water; maybe that's where the rain came from.
I've since come to grips with the situation and having such a great supportive family is a blessing. I hope all mothers had as great a Mother's Day as I did. the yunge Wolfes made lunch, we watched the MCI musical Godspell, which I could attend and then we enjoyed homemade pizza for supper. Life is good.
Take care on the roads this weekend' may the weather be sunny.
May 8, 2014
Over the weekend it was not very warm weather with that cold wind howling from up north but Monday was a totally different day. The wind turned to the southeast and even though we know that rain is on its way, the temperatures will go up. The evening was absolutely gorgeous with the beautiful sunset. Manitoba sunsets are second to none and we have the bluest skies, if only the clouds wold float somewhere else for a while.
Reminders
Please remember that just because you want a per, it doesn't mean the neighbour does. Every spring we are inundated with cats that don't seem to belong to anyone. During the night you'd thing we were living in a haunted town with all the howling that going on. Yes, it's spring but that doesn't mean that the pets can stay out all night and disturb the other residents.
Students will be participating in Jump Rope for Heart on Tuesday, May 13.
The W.C. Miller spring concert will be held at Buhler Hall in Gretna on Tuesday, May 27.
There will be a Spring Tea at the Rosenfeld School the morning of Wednesday, May 28.
Progress Report
It's getting hard to stay inside even though the sun isn't shining. I make my way outside with great difficulty and get so frustrated not to be able to work in the flowerbeds. I hang over the walker and try to pull a few weeds or trim down the perennials. It doesn't take very long and I have to get myself onto a chair; the ankles are screaming. I have made some progress with turning in bed and the backache has decreased a lot. Turning is easy for anyone who hasn't gone through two broken femurs but my turning is a big deal and by the time I'm done Dave is always awake. We have the nicest, funniest conversations at this time of night.
On Tuesday I'm off to HSC for my three month check-up which always means an hour in x-ray. It's amazing the positions I have to acquire during this process; I just hope that all the milk I've been drinking is producing bone.
Reminders
Please remember that just because you want a per, it doesn't mean the neighbour does. Every spring we are inundated with cats that don't seem to belong to anyone. During the night you'd thing we were living in a haunted town with all the howling that going on. Yes, it's spring but that doesn't mean that the pets can stay out all night and disturb the other residents.
Students will be participating in Jump Rope for Heart on Tuesday, May 13.
The W.C. Miller spring concert will be held at Buhler Hall in Gretna on Tuesday, May 27.
There will be a Spring Tea at the Rosenfeld School the morning of Wednesday, May 28.
Progress Report
It's getting hard to stay inside even though the sun isn't shining. I make my way outside with great difficulty and get so frustrated not to be able to work in the flowerbeds. I hang over the walker and try to pull a few weeds or trim down the perennials. It doesn't take very long and I have to get myself onto a chair; the ankles are screaming. I have made some progress with turning in bed and the backache has decreased a lot. Turning is easy for anyone who hasn't gone through two broken femurs but my turning is a big deal and by the time I'm done Dave is always awake. We have the nicest, funniest conversations at this time of night.
On Tuesday I'm off to HSC for my three month check-up which always means an hour in x-ray. It's amazing the positions I have to acquire during this process; I just hope that all the milk I've been drinking is producing bone.
May 1, 2014
After a very rainy Monday, it was nice to wake up to a bright sunny day on Tuesday. It may not be the temperatures that a person is waiting for out doors but the sun makes a difference on how a person feels. The rain stopped long enough for Ed Friesen and his crew to pick up all the stuff at the side of the road last Saturday for the annual spring cleanup. We are grateful to you for a job well done. I hope there weren't too many sore muscles.
Rosenfeld had some excitement last week when a semi took out the light signal pole at the railroad crossing on Highway #30. Traffic was rerouted for a few hours when a crane came to lift the semi out of the ditch. The signal light is under repair so be aware of the big sign set up at the junction of PR #332 and Highway #30 right in front of Rosenfeld. Slow down and check the railway crossing- the train is bigger that you are.
School calendar
Junior Kindergarten, which begins this week Wednesday, spells the beginning of school for a group of a dozen or so young children. It's a very exciting day for them, especially for one who will have grandma, Irene Klassen, as his bus driver. It also means that this school year is fast coming to an end.
another hint to the end of this school year is upcoming field trips. grades 1 & 2 will be traveling on May 7 and Grades 5 & 6 hit the road on May 22. I will try to get reports on their excursions as they happen.
Many people think of May long weekend as the beginning of summer and to celebrate it the students have no classes on Monday, May 19.
Progress report
Okay people, you got me into trouble. Dave never reads my column but he tells me that the readers of The Carillon know too much about him. I stand by my report; he is a good cook.
To help my standing, I received a perching stool which has adjustable legs. This makes working at the kitchen counter doable and I have started doing a bit of cooking. It's interesting to see how the menu changes; Dave is a meat lover and I can go for days on pasta of cheese quesadillas.
My walking is improving along with my balance. It no longer appears that I've been into the sauce every day, though an occasional glass of wine does make it onto the menu. I went for a CT on my back and it confirmed what I thought; I have a herniated disc in my lower back which will take time to heal. In the meantime, the physiotherapist has given me more exercises to strengthen my abs. Oh whoop-de-doo. I guess like so many other people, I'm waiting for warmer weather but in the meantime I've started a 1,000 piece puzzle. So what ever Mother Nature brings I'm content to take it easy and keep healing. God bless.
Rosenfeld had some excitement last week when a semi took out the light signal pole at the railroad crossing on Highway #30. Traffic was rerouted for a few hours when a crane came to lift the semi out of the ditch. The signal light is under repair so be aware of the big sign set up at the junction of PR #332 and Highway #30 right in front of Rosenfeld. Slow down and check the railway crossing- the train is bigger that you are.
School calendar
Junior Kindergarten, which begins this week Wednesday, spells the beginning of school for a group of a dozen or so young children. It's a very exciting day for them, especially for one who will have grandma, Irene Klassen, as his bus driver. It also means that this school year is fast coming to an end.
another hint to the end of this school year is upcoming field trips. grades 1 & 2 will be traveling on May 7 and Grades 5 & 6 hit the road on May 22. I will try to get reports on their excursions as they happen.
Many people think of May long weekend as the beginning of summer and to celebrate it the students have no classes on Monday, May 19.
Progress report
Okay people, you got me into trouble. Dave never reads my column but he tells me that the readers of The Carillon know too much about him. I stand by my report; he is a good cook.
To help my standing, I received a perching stool which has adjustable legs. This makes working at the kitchen counter doable and I have started doing a bit of cooking. It's interesting to see how the menu changes; Dave is a meat lover and I can go for days on pasta of cheese quesadillas.
My walking is improving along with my balance. It no longer appears that I've been into the sauce every day, though an occasional glass of wine does make it onto the menu. I went for a CT on my back and it confirmed what I thought; I have a herniated disc in my lower back which will take time to heal. In the meantime, the physiotherapist has given me more exercises to strengthen my abs. Oh whoop-de-doo. I guess like so many other people, I'm waiting for warmer weather but in the meantime I've started a 1,000 piece puzzle. So what ever Mother Nature brings I'm content to take it easy and keep healing. God bless.
Apr.24, 2014
Is it only me or ahs anyone else noticed that when watching the news we get only half the story. I know I've mentioned this before but it's beginning to get on my nerves. I'm often heard talking to the TV asking questions about the rest of the story. Then we have that tragic incident in Calgary and the reporter is talking about what type of flowers the people are carrying. What? Is this important to the story? this whole thing is devastation to the families and friends of the deceased and here is the reporter trivializing the funeral. I'm left shaking my head.
The weather has given us some nice sunny days and the seedlings I've started have hope of being planted in the garden. The full moon comes in the middle of June so annuals will be late going into the garden. Isn't that what the Farmers' Almanac always said? Plant tomatoes after the full moon to moss the frost. and then who really knows what Mother Nature will do. This winter and spring have been highly unpredictable so who knows what summer will be like.
Reminder
The annual Soup and Pie supper will take place at the Rosenfeld Good Neighbour Center on Thursday, Apr. 24. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Hockey update
Locally most of the hockey has been over for a while but the Altona Maroons are still playing for the provincial trophy. The Senior A championship game was played on Apr. 19 at the MTS Iceplex which saw the Maroons take on the Deloraine Royals. The end result was 3 - 1 for the Royals. Though the trophy didn't come home with them, they put up a good fight. Better luck next year, Angus Klassen.
Music Festival
Madison Smith, daughter of Ronn and Loretta Smith, entered the vocal solo, 16 -18 category at their Red River Valley Festival of Arts last week. She sang Shenandoah and won the Town of Altona trophy. Congratulations from the community and especially from Grandma and Grampa Schroeder on a job well done.
Progress report
If I'm to be totally honest, I have to admit that last week was not my best week. My physiotherapist gave me some new exercises for my ankles on Monday and by Wednesday they were blown up like huge grapefruits. I couldn't get into my shoes and it felt as though they were on fire. I did as little as possible and Dave came through hosting Easter with flying colours. He marinated and roasted a duck on the smoker outside while the ham was in the oven. Add varenika, vegetables, schmont fat and blueberry sauce and dinner was served. To top that off we had one of his fabulous apple pies for faspa.
By Monday the swelling had gone down and I began a bit of walking at physio. After I walked the length of the room the therapist imitated me and I burst out laughing . He walked like a duck so that's what I look like. Dave was right again telling me that I look like a duck. Now begins the next chapter in recovery - to not walk like a duck.
April 17, 2014
I read an article the other day written by Martha Beck. In it she recommends that people stop making bucket lists and live in the moment. Have a nap, read a book and enjoy everyday small pleasures. It may sound strange to pencil "do a jigsaw puzzle" into a to-do list but small pleasures every day will make for a happier disposition. She writes, "We are a time-starved people, obsessed with fitting huge achievements into our few years. In the end the only thing that counts is being content and this may be as simple as watching birds at the feeder, walking your dog or petting your cat. Time has a way of running out; the time to be happy is now.
School news
The Family Resource Center is hosting a program for parents who have a child who will be stating kindergarten in fall. Rock and read is being held Apr. 21 and 23 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. The facilitator is Robin Neustater and childcare is provided by Neta Penner and Candice Wiens.
The windup for the boys and Girls Club was held on Apr. 10 at the Rosenfeld School. A huge not of appreciation goes out to Brian and Roxanne Friesen for again volunteering for this fun evening for the kids.
Parent Council will be hosting the annual Spring Soup and Pie Supper on Thursday, Apr. 24 at the Rosenfeld Good Neighbour Center. Everyone is welcome to participate in slurping the most wonderful homemade soup, munching homemade buns and eating the most mouth drooling homemade pie.
Spring is definitely here and the school spring concerts will be held soon. Miller Collegiate will be holding their concert at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27 at Buhler Hall in Gretna.
amalgamation
Everyone in the Rhineland Municipality is invited to attend a public meeting regarding the amalgamation of the town of Gretna, the RM of Rhineland and town of Plum Coulee. The first meeting will be held on Tuesday Apr. 22 at 7 p.m. in the plum Coulee Community Hall. The second meeting will be held on Thursday. Apr. 24 at 7 p.m. in the Gretna Prairie Center.
Progress report
I must apologize for the snow again last week. I had a very busy week with physio, going for coffee at Carol Schroeder's and Betty and John Warkentin's and having Neta Penner and Manda Zacharias in for a visit. By Friday night I was tired and if the weather was nice I knew that I wouldn't be able to go out and about on Saturday and I tend to get selfish at this point. and you guess it, I prayed for snow. We didn't get much but enough to calm the nerves and keep me indoors; not wishing to go out. We sure had a howling wind on Sunday but it was sunny enough to curl up and nap in the rays. Now I'm ready to begin another week. It's amazing how the days are filled even when the calendar has empty squares at the beginning of the week.
I'd like to wish everyone a Happy Easter and I'm so grateful to Helen Kuhl for the gift of yummy Easter bread.
School news
The Family Resource Center is hosting a program for parents who have a child who will be stating kindergarten in fall. Rock and read is being held Apr. 21 and 23 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. The facilitator is Robin Neustater and childcare is provided by Neta Penner and Candice Wiens.
The windup for the boys and Girls Club was held on Apr. 10 at the Rosenfeld School. A huge not of appreciation goes out to Brian and Roxanne Friesen for again volunteering for this fun evening for the kids.
Parent Council will be hosting the annual Spring Soup and Pie Supper on Thursday, Apr. 24 at the Rosenfeld Good Neighbour Center. Everyone is welcome to participate in slurping the most wonderful homemade soup, munching homemade buns and eating the most mouth drooling homemade pie.
Spring is definitely here and the school spring concerts will be held soon. Miller Collegiate will be holding their concert at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27 at Buhler Hall in Gretna.
amalgamation
Everyone in the Rhineland Municipality is invited to attend a public meeting regarding the amalgamation of the town of Gretna, the RM of Rhineland and town of Plum Coulee. The first meeting will be held on Tuesday Apr. 22 at 7 p.m. in the plum Coulee Community Hall. The second meeting will be held on Thursday. Apr. 24 at 7 p.m. in the Gretna Prairie Center.
Progress report
I must apologize for the snow again last week. I had a very busy week with physio, going for coffee at Carol Schroeder's and Betty and John Warkentin's and having Neta Penner and Manda Zacharias in for a visit. By Friday night I was tired and if the weather was nice I knew that I wouldn't be able to go out and about on Saturday and I tend to get selfish at this point. and you guess it, I prayed for snow. We didn't get much but enough to calm the nerves and keep me indoors; not wishing to go out. We sure had a howling wind on Sunday but it was sunny enough to curl up and nap in the rays. Now I'm ready to begin another week. It's amazing how the days are filled even when the calendar has empty squares at the beginning of the week.
I'd like to wish everyone a Happy Easter and I'm so grateful to Helen Kuhl for the gift of yummy Easter bread.
Monday, 8 December 2014
April 10, 2014
Greetings readers, I've been experiencing a bit of a writing dilemma since receiving a letter from Mr. Burr, editor of The Carillon. I've been in management and know that changes are often needed within a business but the change that is being asked of all the small community columnists just doesn't make sense to me. All the readers of The Carillon, at least the ones I know, buy it for these articles. If they want other news all they have to do is listen to the local radio station or go online. What they can't find anywhere else is the small community news and tidbits which make for every unique newspaper. The writers of these columns do not write for money but for the sheer enjoyment of contacting the locals and giving them a bit of notoriety, putting their community on the map. If this policy had been in effect a few years ago, we would not have known Renate Leitner and her extraordinary life. We followed her to her cottage every spring and them back to home in fall. I don't intend to stop writing this column, representing the community of Rosenfeld. When I get government news overload this is what I need to balance my life. Everyday life news is what makes the world go round and keeps us sane - that is what I intend to continue writing about.
School update
Spring break wasn't very spring -like and I feel sorry for the kids. We didn't have one nice sunny day for the entire week and I was looking forward to seeing the kids running up and down the street.
April 16 & 17 - parent/teacher interviews
April 18 - no classes - Good Friday
Let's hope there are nice sunny days for the Easter weekend.
Progress report
I've been very slow getting out and visiting but that changed a bit last weekend. Dave and I drove to Mitchell and spent some quality time at Jim and Judith Schellenberg's house, eating hotdogs and drinking wine. How much better can it get? I must hasten to add that Dave stuck to drinking coffee but since I wasn't and won't be driving for a while, I did enjoy a glass or two.
I'm going to physiotherapy twice a week and it sure tires me out but I'm determined to get to the walking stage. We still have a snow-bank on the patio and by the time it has melted I'm hoping to be able to hobble out and plunk myself into a lounge chair. I know that my third leg, my balancing mechanism which is my walker. will be my assistant for quite a while butt it will be great to get outside. Now if only I could get my right hip to cooperate and lift my leg. That femur was broken at the very top and my surgeon has told me that it will take a long time to heal but it's a very difficult to use the stairs at this point. I manage to move on level ground but lifting to do any step is challenging and ends up leading to a sleepless night. I try not to use pills and them only as a last resort.
Mar. 27, 2014
Readers know by now that I enjoy doing jigsaw puzzles but this week I enjoyed one which really is unique. The finished puzzle is 18 inches by 12 inches and has 1,000 pieces - timey miniature pieces which almost had to be placed with tweezers. It had a beautiful Japanese garden scene. I had a bit of help from our grandson Thomas when he came over on Monday afternoon due to no school day.
What a nice way to relax after my friend Carol Schroeder, her daughter Loretta Smith and my daughter-in-law, Anna Wolfe took me out for lunch on Monday. This was my second fun outing since my accident and the first visit back to Winkler's teahouse, Gingerwood Lanes. Then in the evening we were invited for cake and coffee at the yunge Wolfe's. It was a wonderful way to spend my birthday especially since I almost didn't make it to this one.
I received a phone call from my surgeon, Dr. Pilkey, on Tuesday morning giving me the red light for weight bearing on my right ankle to the degree I find doable. This was good news to a point; I still cannot go back to work but it is progress.
School update
Next week Border Land schools have spring break. I wish all the families take a bit of time to play and enjoy the sunshine. They get one extra day by going back on the following Tuesday instead of Monday due to Monday being Administration Day.
April 16 and 17 are parent/teacher interviews and Apr. 18 has no classes because it's Good Friday.
(I will be posting all my columns in the near future)
What a nice way to relax after my friend Carol Schroeder, her daughter Loretta Smith and my daughter-in-law, Anna Wolfe took me out for lunch on Monday. This was my second fun outing since my accident and the first visit back to Winkler's teahouse, Gingerwood Lanes. Then in the evening we were invited for cake and coffee at the yunge Wolfe's. It was a wonderful way to spend my birthday especially since I almost didn't make it to this one.
I received a phone call from my surgeon, Dr. Pilkey, on Tuesday morning giving me the red light for weight bearing on my right ankle to the degree I find doable. This was good news to a point; I still cannot go back to work but it is progress.
School update
Next week Border Land schools have spring break. I wish all the families take a bit of time to play and enjoy the sunshine. They get one extra day by going back on the following Tuesday instead of Monday due to Monday being Administration Day.
April 16 and 17 are parent/teacher interviews and Apr. 18 has no classes because it's Good Friday.
(I will be posting all my columns in the near future)
Mar.22, 2014
Motivation seems to disappear on cloudy days. Very often when someone had trouble starting their vehicle my dad would say, "He just needs to add STP". I wish there was and easy remedy for humans. Coffee is a good starter but doesn't seem to have the oomph to keep me going all day. But give me one ray of sunshine and I'm off and running. Okay maybe not running but you know what I mean. At least the temperatures are no longer in the minus 30's and we did get to hang our quilt on the deck railing one of those wonderful spring-like days.
School calendar
In early March the Grad 4-6 students attended a French concert in Altona with other schools from Altona, Dominion City, Emerson and Gretna. a group, Ca Claque, played music, sang, performed traditional dances and invited students to join them in playing an instrument or learning some steps to the traditional dances. It was a great opportunity to appreciate the French culture. Ca Claque showcases Franco-Manitoban artists who share their love of French Canadian folklore, traditional as well as contemporary, through music and dance. They feature exciting and diverse entertainment that stirs your senses from the first sound of the fiddle to the last step of the gig. Ca Claque is from Winnipeg and the surrounding area. They have performed in many places including Folklorama in Winnipeg, the United States and South America. For more information about the group, visit their website.
Comments from the students on the way back to school wee, "That was great", My hands hurt from all the clapping", I didn't understand what they were saying but it was neat!" This report was taken from the school newsletter.
Parent council is again hosting a movie night at the school on Fri. Mar.21. The movis is Mr. Popper's Penguins and show time begins at 7 p.m.
The last soup Wednesday will be held on Mar.26. Appreciation goes to all the parents who either made soup or helped serve. This is a very special treat especially this winter with so many cold days.
There will be no school on Mon. Mar. 24 due to PD day.
Spring break begins Mon. ar. 31 and school will be back in session Apr. 8. Let's hope the weather really is spring-like and the kids get to fill their boots at home.
Community update
Rosenfeld is being considered for a tower for better and faster internet service. If residents are not opposed to the tower which will be right next door to us then the construction will begin soon. I'm hoping there is no objection because tight now the internet speed isn't exactly speedy.
Progress report
What can I say? Baby steps, that's how I'm progressing. I can't tell you how disappointing it was when the surgeon pulled me back to partial weight bearing on the left ankle. I figures out how to get down the stairs and though I'd be able to go back up like a monkey but that is now not an option. And yet the basement is call me. I have and unfinished blanket lying on the sewing machine and the pepper an tomato seeds are waiting to jump into the dirt. It's a blessing we have friends who continue popping in and providing me with strength to march on. Hugs are a wonderful thing.
School calendar
In early March the Grad 4-6 students attended a French concert in Altona with other schools from Altona, Dominion City, Emerson and Gretna. a group, Ca Claque, played music, sang, performed traditional dances and invited students to join them in playing an instrument or learning some steps to the traditional dances. It was a great opportunity to appreciate the French culture. Ca Claque showcases Franco-Manitoban artists who share their love of French Canadian folklore, traditional as well as contemporary, through music and dance. They feature exciting and diverse entertainment that stirs your senses from the first sound of the fiddle to the last step of the gig. Ca Claque is from Winnipeg and the surrounding area. They have performed in many places including Folklorama in Winnipeg, the United States and South America. For more information about the group, visit their website.
Comments from the students on the way back to school wee, "That was great", My hands hurt from all the clapping", I didn't understand what they were saying but it was neat!" This report was taken from the school newsletter.
Parent council is again hosting a movie night at the school on Fri. Mar.21. The movis is Mr. Popper's Penguins and show time begins at 7 p.m.
The last soup Wednesday will be held on Mar.26. Appreciation goes to all the parents who either made soup or helped serve. This is a very special treat especially this winter with so many cold days.
There will be no school on Mon. Mar. 24 due to PD day.
Spring break begins Mon. ar. 31 and school will be back in session Apr. 8. Let's hope the weather really is spring-like and the kids get to fill their boots at home.
Community update
Rosenfeld is being considered for a tower for better and faster internet service. If residents are not opposed to the tower which will be right next door to us then the construction will begin soon. I'm hoping there is no objection because tight now the internet speed isn't exactly speedy.
Progress report
What can I say? Baby steps, that's how I'm progressing. I can't tell you how disappointing it was when the surgeon pulled me back to partial weight bearing on the left ankle. I figures out how to get down the stairs and though I'd be able to go back up like a monkey but that is now not an option. And yet the basement is call me. I have and unfinished blanket lying on the sewing machine and the pepper an tomato seeds are waiting to jump into the dirt. It's a blessing we have friends who continue popping in and providing me with strength to march on. Hugs are a wonderful thing.
Mar. 6, 2014
I'm a bit grumpy this Monday night as I write my column. Thomas, our grandson, got picked up by the Altona Midgets for a playoff game which is a bonus but the game is in Plum Coulee. They have a pretty nice arena but is not wheelchair accessible so where does that leave me? you guessed it; at home.
Dave and I had our yunge Wolfes over for Sunday dinner and we decided to order take-out from a business in Altona. We had ordered for this establishment before and really enjoyed the chicken a pizza so when we asked for mostly dark chicken we assumed that we would be accommodated. Since we were for adults and three teenagers we went with an 18 piece bucket. Well, half the chicken was white meat and all of us prefer dark meat so this was quit a dilemma and a disgruntled Dave. Thank goodness we had also ordered pizza but needless to say we won't be patronizing that business anymore. One wonders where the service part of service has gone.
We have had a little bush rabbit living under our back deck all winter. At first I was totally opposed to Dave taking care of business but after watching it munch all the rose bushes I'm now of a different mindset. This little ball of fluff has decimated all new growth on the bushes which of course is where the new roses form. Thank goodness the snow is pretty high and covers some of the smaller plants and it can't get at those. But next winter that little guy will have to find a different home.
My pet peeve happened this weekend. Yes, I mean the time change and losing an hour of sleep. Next week it will be dark again when we get up. Why cant they leave the clock alone like Saskatchewan?
Community update
The Rosenfeld Winter Carnival was postponed last week due to the nasty temperatures. It will take place this week Sat. Mar.8. The forecast is good at this point; let's hope it stays that way. Everyone is invited for the free day which includes a pancake and sausage breakfast and hotdogs at the rink for lunch.
Condolences
Tony Friesen of Alton, formerly of the Roseville area, passed away on Mon. Feb. 24. He was 100 years old and until last summer still drove his car to the family farm. He is survived by four sons: Bill? Margaret, Glen/Phyllis, Ronn/Anne, Larry/Martha and their families. He was predeceased by his wife Katie. The funeral service was held on Sat. Mar. 1 at the Altona Bergthaler Church with burial at the Friesen family cemetery. The Rosenfeld Community sends prayers to the family. Tony was a long time part of the coffee shop gang and will be missed.
Progress report
During this adventure I'm on I have learned a lot about myself. I used to feel guilty if I didn't accomplish a page of chores every day and the whole day would be spent running around. Times have changed. The only important item on the agenda now is the exercises. Once those are done, well then if I want to sit in the sun, then I sit in the sum.. If I want to read, I read. I've put that Mennonite guilt in the garbage. What my work ethic will be once I'm healed I don't' know but suspect that I will not be a workaholic anymore.
Until now the physiotherapist has been focusing on the bending of my knees but he has now added my back. The back stretching exercises that have been added to my workout seem to be helping. I an managing to sleep in our bed the entire night. I'm still using four pillows under hy head and one under my knees but the back pain has eased quite a bit.
I would like to thank the community for its ongoing support and prayers. There are a number of very special people, Carol Schroeder, Helen Kuhl and my sister betty/John who have definitely made this winter endurable. They not only provide company almost weekly but also books, puzzles and munchies. Helen makes the most awesome muffins and Carol's cinnamon rolls are yummy. My appreciation for my husband's support hist the Richter scale and then some I wouldn't want to think of how I would have survived this ordeal without the wonderful people around me.
Dave and I had our yunge Wolfes over for Sunday dinner and we decided to order take-out from a business in Altona. We had ordered for this establishment before and really enjoyed the chicken a pizza so when we asked for mostly dark chicken we assumed that we would be accommodated. Since we were for adults and three teenagers we went with an 18 piece bucket. Well, half the chicken was white meat and all of us prefer dark meat so this was quit a dilemma and a disgruntled Dave. Thank goodness we had also ordered pizza but needless to say we won't be patronizing that business anymore. One wonders where the service part of service has gone.
We have had a little bush rabbit living under our back deck all winter. At first I was totally opposed to Dave taking care of business but after watching it munch all the rose bushes I'm now of a different mindset. This little ball of fluff has decimated all new growth on the bushes which of course is where the new roses form. Thank goodness the snow is pretty high and covers some of the smaller plants and it can't get at those. But next winter that little guy will have to find a different home.
My pet peeve happened this weekend. Yes, I mean the time change and losing an hour of sleep. Next week it will be dark again when we get up. Why cant they leave the clock alone like Saskatchewan?
Community update
The Rosenfeld Winter Carnival was postponed last week due to the nasty temperatures. It will take place this week Sat. Mar.8. The forecast is good at this point; let's hope it stays that way. Everyone is invited for the free day which includes a pancake and sausage breakfast and hotdogs at the rink for lunch.
Condolences
Tony Friesen of Alton, formerly of the Roseville area, passed away on Mon. Feb. 24. He was 100 years old and until last summer still drove his car to the family farm. He is survived by four sons: Bill? Margaret, Glen/Phyllis, Ronn/Anne, Larry/Martha and their families. He was predeceased by his wife Katie. The funeral service was held on Sat. Mar. 1 at the Altona Bergthaler Church with burial at the Friesen family cemetery. The Rosenfeld Community sends prayers to the family. Tony was a long time part of the coffee shop gang and will be missed.
Progress report
During this adventure I'm on I have learned a lot about myself. I used to feel guilty if I didn't accomplish a page of chores every day and the whole day would be spent running around. Times have changed. The only important item on the agenda now is the exercises. Once those are done, well then if I want to sit in the sun, then I sit in the sum.. If I want to read, I read. I've put that Mennonite guilt in the garbage. What my work ethic will be once I'm healed I don't' know but suspect that I will not be a workaholic anymore.
Until now the physiotherapist has been focusing on the bending of my knees but he has now added my back. The back stretching exercises that have been added to my workout seem to be helping. I an managing to sleep in our bed the entire night. I'm still using four pillows under hy head and one under my knees but the back pain has eased quite a bit.
I would like to thank the community for its ongoing support and prayers. There are a number of very special people, Carol Schroeder, Helen Kuhl and my sister betty/John who have definitely made this winter endurable. They not only provide company almost weekly but also books, puzzles and munchies. Helen makes the most awesome muffins and Carol's cinnamon rolls are yummy. My appreciation for my husband's support hist the Richter scale and then some I wouldn't want to think of how I would have survived this ordeal without the wonderful people around me.
Feb. 27, 2014
It's Tuesday morning and I'm sitting at my computer and all I can think is - what a bright sunshiny day. I know most of the readers are tired of the deep freeze but I have nowhere to go so I sit in the sunshine and make like a cat. How does stretching, yawning and napping sound to you? I'm taking full advantage of this period in my life to learn how to slow down and choose priorities. Enjoy your life; you never know what will happen in the next five minutes.
I will be making my seed order this week which is quite a bit later than I usually do but this is a very different year. I' not sure if I'll be starting any in the house. This whole business takes place in the basement so that presents a whole newest of challenges like getting down all those stairs.
Community update
The Rosenfeld Winter Carnival takes place on Sat. Mar. 1. The free pancake breakfast runs from 8-9:30 a.m. and is sponsored by the LUD of Rosenfeld. Jam pail curling which is open fro all ages takes place at the skating rink and begins at 11 a.m. The free lunch is served at the skating rink and as soon as you're finished eating and you can enjoy the sleigh rides which will be going rill 2 p.m. The sno-golf will be held on the playground beginning at 1 p.m. and everyone is asked to bring their own hockey stick to use a golf club. Everyone is welcome to participate in this free fun day which is sponsored by the LUD of Rosenfeld, the Rosenfeld and area skating rink and the Rosenfeld Good Neighbour Center.
Hockey update
The Miller Aces are out of the playoffs and are cone for the season so I guess Simon Schroeder and Matthew Winter will get a rest. The Winkler Flyers are playing hard and trying to win and Brett Klassen is doing his best to make this happen. The Altona Maroons are holding their own and Angus Klassen continues to get onto the scoreboard.
Dave and I attended the playoff games played by the Altona Maroons Bantam I team. They did good and won both home games. Now they have to play in Oakville and Carmen. Good luck, guys.
Progress report
My friends continue to supply me with puzzles and books which I make myself put on hold until the exercises are done. My goal for this month was to somehow get into the basement. Walking down at this point is not an option but I have a friend who became very good are going down the stairs on her bottom after a horse fell on her leg. I think that will be my mode of travel too. One of the screws in my left ankles seems to have a mind of its own and continues to push out but has now decided to go back in. This is not painful but I hope it stays there.
Before my accident I was quite a sweets lover but for some strange reason this has changed. I used to tell my grandchildren that I didn't have sweet tooth and I needed enough candy to fill all my sweet teeth. Gabby the granddaughter who loves candy too, totally understood this comment and would laugh and bring me a big bag of sour peach candy for the arena canteen.
Now I crave vegetable,s any vegetables. Bring me cucumbers, carrots, celery or tomatoes; this in now my snack food. I think this is a good thing as I'm not as active as I once was and it helped tide me over watching all the Olympic competitions.
I will be making my seed order this week which is quite a bit later than I usually do but this is a very different year. I' not sure if I'll be starting any in the house. This whole business takes place in the basement so that presents a whole newest of challenges like getting down all those stairs.
Community update
The Rosenfeld Winter Carnival takes place on Sat. Mar. 1. The free pancake breakfast runs from 8-9:30 a.m. and is sponsored by the LUD of Rosenfeld. Jam pail curling which is open fro all ages takes place at the skating rink and begins at 11 a.m. The free lunch is served at the skating rink and as soon as you're finished eating and you can enjoy the sleigh rides which will be going rill 2 p.m. The sno-golf will be held on the playground beginning at 1 p.m. and everyone is asked to bring their own hockey stick to use a golf club. Everyone is welcome to participate in this free fun day which is sponsored by the LUD of Rosenfeld, the Rosenfeld and area skating rink and the Rosenfeld Good Neighbour Center.
Hockey update
The Miller Aces are out of the playoffs and are cone for the season so I guess Simon Schroeder and Matthew Winter will get a rest. The Winkler Flyers are playing hard and trying to win and Brett Klassen is doing his best to make this happen. The Altona Maroons are holding their own and Angus Klassen continues to get onto the scoreboard.
Dave and I attended the playoff games played by the Altona Maroons Bantam I team. They did good and won both home games. Now they have to play in Oakville and Carmen. Good luck, guys.
Progress report
My friends continue to supply me with puzzles and books which I make myself put on hold until the exercises are done. My goal for this month was to somehow get into the basement. Walking down at this point is not an option but I have a friend who became very good are going down the stairs on her bottom after a horse fell on her leg. I think that will be my mode of travel too. One of the screws in my left ankles seems to have a mind of its own and continues to push out but has now decided to go back in. This is not painful but I hope it stays there.
Before my accident I was quite a sweets lover but for some strange reason this has changed. I used to tell my grandchildren that I didn't have sweet tooth and I needed enough candy to fill all my sweet teeth. Gabby the granddaughter who loves candy too, totally understood this comment and would laugh and bring me a big bag of sour peach candy for the arena canteen.
Now I crave vegetable,s any vegetables. Bring me cucumbers, carrots, celery or tomatoes; this in now my snack food. I think this is a good thing as I'm not as active as I once was and it helped tide me over watching all the Olympic competitions.
Sunday, 7 December 2014
Feb.20, 2014
I had a lot of trouble with this site so please be patient, I will update the whole year before we get to 2015.
I can hear everyone cheering. What lovely weather we had for a long weekend. The blow we were supposed to get never materialized which was a good thing. the nasty weather has finally given up for a few days and how wonderful it is. The kids are going by carrying their sliding saucers in order to make use of the huge snow hill on the playground. the skating rink lights stay on till closing rime. I'm sure everyone is happier. even though Manitobans know that spring will come, it's good to get a wee taste of it in February.
Hockey update
You know spring is around the corner when hockey playoffs begin. Some teams are in full swing while others are just beginning. The Miller Aces aren't doing very well by all reports. Maybe they need to watch the Olympic teams in their down times to learn a new hockey move. Is there anyone who doesn't watch any of the Olympic events? My favourites are of course ladies' and men's hockey and the figure skating.
Dave and I attended another Altona Maroons Bantam I game last Sunday night. we crossed our fingers hoping for a good game as this day is usually not conducive for a win. If past games were any indication then we were not going to see much action from this team. But they proved us wrong. They took on Oakville with vim and vigour, tying one all until the third period. They came out flying in the third and won the game 4 - 1. and it made it more worthwhile seeing as Thomas Wolfe scored and had an assist.
Community update
The Good Neighbour Center committee is again planning a winter carnival. It will take place on Sat. Mar.1. Watch for posters and I'll try to get events, times and locations for the day in the next column.
Progress report
Some days I'm ready to throw in the towel where exercise is concerned but that feeling soon gets thrown under the couch. More exercises are added every week by my therapist but if I'm going to be able to push that mower, quitting is not an option. I have one exercise which requires me to slide off the couch, seeing how I can't go on my knees. do some tricky manoeuvring and end up lying on my back on the floor with my legs on the couch. Then I have to lift up my body and back down I go this stretches the back muscles which have gotten tight due to all the sitting around I've been doing.
Then I do a routine fo sit-ups while Im already on the floor. Getting back onto the couch is another comical performance. After I get mu legs back on the floor, I sit with my back up against the bottom of the couch. With elbows on the couch I lift myself up and slowly slide onto the couch. Okay, now I'm tired. Put my day has just begun. Out comes the elastic band which I hold and slide under mu feet. Then I bend and straighten my legs, holding the band taut in order to strengthen my quads. I tried doing squats but that put too much pressure on my ankles so we came up with this alternative. Usually that's enough for the morning and the exercise bike wits till the afternoon. I reward myself with puzzling or reading once I'm done.
I can hear everyone cheering. What lovely weather we had for a long weekend. The blow we were supposed to get never materialized which was a good thing. the nasty weather has finally given up for a few days and how wonderful it is. The kids are going by carrying their sliding saucers in order to make use of the huge snow hill on the playground. the skating rink lights stay on till closing rime. I'm sure everyone is happier. even though Manitobans know that spring will come, it's good to get a wee taste of it in February.
Hockey update
You know spring is around the corner when hockey playoffs begin. Some teams are in full swing while others are just beginning. The Miller Aces aren't doing very well by all reports. Maybe they need to watch the Olympic teams in their down times to learn a new hockey move. Is there anyone who doesn't watch any of the Olympic events? My favourites are of course ladies' and men's hockey and the figure skating.
Dave and I attended another Altona Maroons Bantam I game last Sunday night. we crossed our fingers hoping for a good game as this day is usually not conducive for a win. If past games were any indication then we were not going to see much action from this team. But they proved us wrong. They took on Oakville with vim and vigour, tying one all until the third period. They came out flying in the third and won the game 4 - 1. and it made it more worthwhile seeing as Thomas Wolfe scored and had an assist.
Community update
The Good Neighbour Center committee is again planning a winter carnival. It will take place on Sat. Mar.1. Watch for posters and I'll try to get events, times and locations for the day in the next column.
Progress report
Some days I'm ready to throw in the towel where exercise is concerned but that feeling soon gets thrown under the couch. More exercises are added every week by my therapist but if I'm going to be able to push that mower, quitting is not an option. I have one exercise which requires me to slide off the couch, seeing how I can't go on my knees. do some tricky manoeuvring and end up lying on my back on the floor with my legs on the couch. Then I have to lift up my body and back down I go this stretches the back muscles which have gotten tight due to all the sitting around I've been doing.
Then I do a routine fo sit-ups while Im already on the floor. Getting back onto the couch is another comical performance. After I get mu legs back on the floor, I sit with my back up against the bottom of the couch. With elbows on the couch I lift myself up and slowly slide onto the couch. Okay, now I'm tired. Put my day has just begun. Out comes the elastic band which I hold and slide under mu feet. Then I bend and straighten my legs, holding the band taut in order to strengthen my quads. I tried doing squats but that put too much pressure on my ankles so we came up with this alternative. Usually that's enough for the morning and the exercise bike wits till the afternoon. I reward myself with puzzling or reading once I'm done.
Feb 13, 2014
I would like to apologize to my readers for not submitting a column last week; I was too busy having a pity party and didn't have time or energy to write a line of two. Realizing the futility in this behaviour and receiving some moral support from friends, I have since moved on to my much more upbeat side..
The weather continues to present challenges for me I would like to go for a wheelchair ride but not if the temperature is at minus 30. even the skating rink lights are shut off before the evening gets late. When the kids give up on the outdoors, it's a sign for me to stay indoors.
School news
To help students get over the winter slump, every Wednesday in February is dress-up day. They call it Wacky Wednesday and the themes this year are: pajama day, red and white day, in order to celebrate Canada, Olympic colours and everything weird and wacky day. I'm going to try to get to school to get a photo on one of the Wednesday.
There will be no school on Monday, Feb. 17; it's Louis Riel Day.
Community update
Rosenfeld has a site at the north end of the village for branches and garden compost during the summer. Recently a pile of household items made an appearance and it now looks as though we have a garbage dump. Please people; take your stuff to the thrift store or to the rural dump.
Special vacation
Russ and Gladys Klassen celebrated their 25 years of marriage this past Sept 18 and began making plans for a special winter vacation. They couldn't have chosen a colder winter to escape for a week of sun and sand in the Dominican Republic. Friends Darrel and Joanne Hildebrand of Altona, also packed and joined them to fly to Punta Cana on Jan.31. They enjoyed temperatures in the high 20's and low 30's for the entire week with showers only in the late evenings. they stayed at the Occidental Resort and give it a thumbs up for good food and friendly service.
Progress report
Our results for the surgeon at HSC were good news. The x-rays showed that the ankle was growing bone but then Dr. Pilkey advised me not to put all my weight on it yet. I had been thinking I could within reason so I guess I've been too aggressive which means, of course, more puzzling. Oh dear, such a hardship. He also explained that the femurs were the biggest bones in our body and they would take a long time to heal; I think he was trying to tell me something with that information. Too bad it flew over my head: on the advice of my granddaughters I've just dyed my hair blond. I know, I know, I'm supposed to take it easy but it's coming close to mowing grass season and I was so looking forward to pushing the mower. Dave has been talking about buying a riding mower which I could use but it's not the same thing.
Our house is filled with the aroma of spaghetti sauce. Dave had frozen 6 pails of tomatoes in fall and now was a good time to cook and can them; it's a nice way to beat the winter blahs. And as I'm working on the column this Tuesday morning, there's a storm brewing. The south winds are creating poor visibility and with the warmer temperatures possibly slippery roads. Oh well, It's nice and cozy in the house and maybe I'll bake cookies and start a good book.
The weather continues to present challenges for me I would like to go for a wheelchair ride but not if the temperature is at minus 30. even the skating rink lights are shut off before the evening gets late. When the kids give up on the outdoors, it's a sign for me to stay indoors.
School news
To help students get over the winter slump, every Wednesday in February is dress-up day. They call it Wacky Wednesday and the themes this year are: pajama day, red and white day, in order to celebrate Canada, Olympic colours and everything weird and wacky day. I'm going to try to get to school to get a photo on one of the Wednesday.
There will be no school on Monday, Feb. 17; it's Louis Riel Day.
Community update
Rosenfeld has a site at the north end of the village for branches and garden compost during the summer. Recently a pile of household items made an appearance and it now looks as though we have a garbage dump. Please people; take your stuff to the thrift store or to the rural dump.
Special vacation
Russ and Gladys Klassen celebrated their 25 years of marriage this past Sept 18 and began making plans for a special winter vacation. They couldn't have chosen a colder winter to escape for a week of sun and sand in the Dominican Republic. Friends Darrel and Joanne Hildebrand of Altona, also packed and joined them to fly to Punta Cana on Jan.31. They enjoyed temperatures in the high 20's and low 30's for the entire week with showers only in the late evenings. they stayed at the Occidental Resort and give it a thumbs up for good food and friendly service.
Progress report
Our results for the surgeon at HSC were good news. The x-rays showed that the ankle was growing bone but then Dr. Pilkey advised me not to put all my weight on it yet. I had been thinking I could within reason so I guess I've been too aggressive which means, of course, more puzzling. Oh dear, such a hardship. He also explained that the femurs were the biggest bones in our body and they would take a long time to heal; I think he was trying to tell me something with that information. Too bad it flew over my head: on the advice of my granddaughters I've just dyed my hair blond. I know, I know, I'm supposed to take it easy but it's coming close to mowing grass season and I was so looking forward to pushing the mower. Dave has been talking about buying a riding mower which I could use but it's not the same thing.
Our house is filled with the aroma of spaghetti sauce. Dave had frozen 6 pails of tomatoes in fall and now was a good time to cook and can them; it's a nice way to beat the winter blahs. And as I'm working on the column this Tuesday morning, there's a storm brewing. The south winds are creating poor visibility and with the warmer temperatures possibly slippery roads. Oh well, It's nice and cozy in the house and maybe I'll bake cookies and start a good book.
January 30, 2014
This weather sure is testing everyone's patience. Here I was all smiley-faced and smug about how I was handling this cold weather only to be thrown for a loop last Wednesday when the electricity went off. Dave and I both woke up around 4 a.m. with a feeling something wasn't quite right. It was way too quiet in the house and we could definitely hear the wind howling. When we noticed the illuminated numbers on the radio were not illuminated, we realized why it was so quiet. the clock radio had no numbers. What's a person to do?
Thank goodness we have backup batteries in the radio on my side of the bed and I turned that on. It was too early to get up and we couldn't make coffee, so we pulled the quilt up high and went back to sleep. the next time we awoke the power was on and everything was humming. The radio announced the time and it was around 8 a.m. Now was coffee time. No sooner were we in the kitchen and a Manitoba Hydro truck drove by very slowly looking into all the houses.
Later that morning I called the neighbours and she told me that the transformer in our back lane had blown. I can't imagine what we would have done without power for long, the temperature was already down to 65 F and the wind kept howling from the north.
I feel sorry for all the people affected by the gas line explosion near Otterburne. If the heat their house with gas they are face with a huge challenge trying to keep their water lines from freezing. And then to make matters worse, we had a total whiteout storm on Sunday.
Hockey update
the Altona Maroons Bantam team went to Boissevain for a hockey tournament for the weekend of Jan. 25-26. they played some outstanding hockey and came home with the bronze trophy. some came home that is; only two families drove home Sunday night while others stayed due to the storm conditions. the families who stayed another night were lucky when school was cancelled on Monday.
Condolences
the community sends prayers to the family and friends of Dave Zacharias. Dave, 91, of Winnipeg, formerly of Rosenfeld and Altona, passed away on Friday, Jan. 24 at the Grace Hospital. He is survived by one daughter, Darlene, one sister, one brother and their family. He was predeceased by his first wife Martha and second wife Freda. The funeral service was held Wed. Jan.29 at the Altona Bergthaler Church and burial at the Rosenfeld Cemetery.
Dave farmed in the Rosenfeld area for many years and then went on to drive a school bus. He had a happy disposition and you couldn't mistake his chuckle when her heard something funny.
Progress report
You would think that by this time I would have learned how much was enough, but no. Last Friday our granddaughter Amber brought lunch and then she helped finish the jigsaw puzzle she had given me for Christmas. Dave and I got busy as soon as she left for our next company. Martin and Dorothy Friesen were out from Vancouver and he had requested homemade noodle soup. Dave had made the broth the night before so we just had the noodles to cook. I made salad and Dave made pie and by the time the guests arrived I was tired. I have discovered that a glass of wine is better than pills so we toasted to the cold weather and had a nice visit. My payment for this busy day was very sore ankles for two days.
Like I've been saying all along, I need a nice long winter to heal. I'm quite nervous about spring and how I'll manage to stay out of the flowerbeds. I've already decided not to start any of my own seeds inside this spring and have a friend offer to grow some tomatoes and peppers for me. I know it sounds crazy even thinking about gardening but to the people who start their own seeds, now is the time to place the orders from the seed catalogues. I can't manage the stairs into the basement this spring so I'll plan some stuff for next year.
Thank goodness we have backup batteries in the radio on my side of the bed and I turned that on. It was too early to get up and we couldn't make coffee, so we pulled the quilt up high and went back to sleep. the next time we awoke the power was on and everything was humming. The radio announced the time and it was around 8 a.m. Now was coffee time. No sooner were we in the kitchen and a Manitoba Hydro truck drove by very slowly looking into all the houses.
Later that morning I called the neighbours and she told me that the transformer in our back lane had blown. I can't imagine what we would have done without power for long, the temperature was already down to 65 F and the wind kept howling from the north.
I feel sorry for all the people affected by the gas line explosion near Otterburne. If the heat their house with gas they are face with a huge challenge trying to keep their water lines from freezing. And then to make matters worse, we had a total whiteout storm on Sunday.
Hockey update
the Altona Maroons Bantam team went to Boissevain for a hockey tournament for the weekend of Jan. 25-26. they played some outstanding hockey and came home with the bronze trophy. some came home that is; only two families drove home Sunday night while others stayed due to the storm conditions. the families who stayed another night were lucky when school was cancelled on Monday.
Condolences
the community sends prayers to the family and friends of Dave Zacharias. Dave, 91, of Winnipeg, formerly of Rosenfeld and Altona, passed away on Friday, Jan. 24 at the Grace Hospital. He is survived by one daughter, Darlene, one sister, one brother and their family. He was predeceased by his first wife Martha and second wife Freda. The funeral service was held Wed. Jan.29 at the Altona Bergthaler Church and burial at the Rosenfeld Cemetery.
Dave farmed in the Rosenfeld area for many years and then went on to drive a school bus. He had a happy disposition and you couldn't mistake his chuckle when her heard something funny.
Progress report
You would think that by this time I would have learned how much was enough, but no. Last Friday our granddaughter Amber brought lunch and then she helped finish the jigsaw puzzle she had given me for Christmas. Dave and I got busy as soon as she left for our next company. Martin and Dorothy Friesen were out from Vancouver and he had requested homemade noodle soup. Dave had made the broth the night before so we just had the noodles to cook. I made salad and Dave made pie and by the time the guests arrived I was tired. I have discovered that a glass of wine is better than pills so we toasted to the cold weather and had a nice visit. My payment for this busy day was very sore ankles for two days.
Like I've been saying all along, I need a nice long winter to heal. I'm quite nervous about spring and how I'll manage to stay out of the flowerbeds. I've already decided not to start any of my own seeds inside this spring and have a friend offer to grow some tomatoes and peppers for me. I know it sounds crazy even thinking about gardening but to the people who start their own seeds, now is the time to place the orders from the seed catalogues. I can't manage the stairs into the basement this spring so I'll plan some stuff for next year.
Sunday, 26 January 2014
January 23 2014 Rosenfeld News
January
21, 2014 Rosenfeld News by Tina Wolfe
Okay, so I’ll say uncle already,
these temperatures are starting to interfere with my getting out to our
grandson’s hockey games. Most of the arenas are wheelchair friendly so that’s
not an issue but it’s the going to and from the truck that freezes up the body
including the nose hair. When our granddaughter, Amber, arrived home last week
and stepped out of the airport terminal this is one of the comments she made.
She reported that it had been a long time since she had frozen nose hair. I
guess it’s one of those experiences which a person doesn’t think about until
you go away.
School
news
The students have begun skating as
part of the physed program. Fridays are a hub of activity at the rink and heads
are seen bobbing over the fence. I wish I were able to go take some photos of
those smiling faces.
Another activity available for kids
is the Boys and Girls Club. It takes place in the school gym and is held every
second Thursday night from 7:30 – 8:00 pm.
Stay and Play offered by the Altona
and Area Resource Center is for parents and their preschool children. This
takes place every Thursday morning from 9:30 – 11:30 at school and the
facilitator is Candice Wiens and helper is Neta Penner.
If the kids still aren’t tired and
the wind chill keeps them indoors there’s still another activity to try. An after
School Activity Program takes place at school every Wednesday from 3:45 – 4:30
pm.
For more information concerning any
of these activities please feel free to call our wonderful school secretary,
Gladys Klassen.
Condolences
Wayne Schroeder, 62, of Rosenfeld
passed away suddenly last week. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all his
family and friends especially to his love, Sharon and brother, Laurie and Carol
Schroeder and their family. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Progress
report
One of the things I miss the most
during this convalescence is the fact that I can’t get out to take photos to go
with the column. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a shot of smiling kids at the
rink? Even when adults dread going out somehow children find joy in being
outdoors.
I would like to thank Jim and Judith
Schellenberg for a wonderful day last Sunday. We had not been able to celebrate
Christmas or New Year’s Day due to the stomach flu which hit both families. We
now had a wonderful visit and toasted in the new year.
Last week was a stormy week so I had
to cancel my trip to HSC for my check up on Tuesday. The receptionist at Dr.
Pilkey’s office was wonderful and rescheduling was no problem. Then on Thursday
we had a white out and there was no going even to Altona for physio. I got a
lot of puzzling done.
Slowly but surely my walking is
improving but my balancing act is quite something to behold. If someone didn’t
know that I had experienced these injuries, I’m sure they’d think I’d been in
the sauce. And I don’t mean like gravy sauce. I keep the walker nearby at all
times even if I’m next to the wall or kitchen cabinets. At times I feel like a
drunken sailor or maybe I should rephrase that and say like someone who has
been fishing on a boat and then gets off at the end of the day. I can’t stand
at one spot for more than a minute; the ankles begin to burn almost
immediately. When doing anything in the kitchen I sit on the walker seat so I
have started helping Dave a bit. He complains that most of the time I’m in the
way, it’s a huge walker. But he’ll get used to it.
It’s amazing how things change every
day. Someone asked me how I was doing and I replied, “ Well, I don’t take one step
forward and one back; it’s more like ten
forward and one back.” I think that covers the progress report. Life is good.
January 16 2014 Rosenfeld News
January
13 Rosenfeld News by Tina Wolfe
The
warmer temperatures surely must have everyone smiling this week. Many of those
very cold nights, the skating rink lights did not go on and then quite suddenly
they stayed on past their usual 10:00 pm shut down. The skaters were definitely
making up for lost time.
Happy
birthday wishes go out to Gail Shimonek for her birthday on January 16. I’m
sure she’s having a great day in Hawaii.
Hockey update
The
Altona Maroons Bantam 1 team took to the ice against Portage on Sunday, Jan. 11
and won 7 – 1. Right after that game the Bantam 2 team went up against Holland.
For the first two periods it looked as though Altona was going to take the game
with the score 2 – 0 but they ran out of steam in the third period. Holland took
the game 4 -2. It was good to be watching the games whatever the score.
Amber’s update
Our
granddaughter, Amber, who was to arrive home last Monday was caught up in that
backlog at the Toronto airport. The flight out on Monday night was delayed for
quite some time. They were finally allowed to board only to sit on the tarmac
for nearly four hours and then told it was too cold to fly and they all had to
disembark. They then had to get in line to obtain another ticket for the next
flight out. This re-issuing took eight hours so needless to say she didn’t get
any sleep that night. Tuesday evening they again boarded their plane only to
taxi from one place to another trying to fuel-up. This took at least two hours
and she was wondering if there was going to be a rerun of the night before when
finally they did lift off. They landed in Winnipeg around 1:30 a.m. Wednesday
morning. Little did they know that all the Air Canada baggage handlers had gone
home at the end of their shift at midnight and the West Jet staff unloaded all
their luggage. Way to go Zach.
From
all the information I’ve heard and seen on television it reinforces my prior
conviction of never flying with Air Canada. This company is not working to
serve you with a smile.
On
a happier note Amber reports that the Canadian Junior Hockey team was on the
flight from Frankfurt to Toronto which had been pretty interesting. When I
asked her if the team had been rowdy she replied, “Well, you know how teenage
boys act.” Ah, yes and then she gives her little Mona Lisa smile.
Progress report
It
sure was nice to go to a hockey game last Sunday; Dave and I were suffering
with hockey withdrawal. I don’t get to go to many places other than to physio
or to see my surgeon at HSC. We will be making a trip for an update this
Tuesday and I hope he will be as pleased with my progress as my therapist. I’ve
started on leg strengthening exercises which is a slow process. My ankles are
not very strong and many days doing a set of two of each of the three exercises
in enough to give me pain for the night. My attempts at walking looks like a
stumbling big baby but I keep at it anyway. My knees are doing very well and
the wheel on the exercise bike slowly makes the circle all the way around. I
won’t be trying the Tour de France anytime soon but I’ll be happy to do the
tour de Rosenfeld come summer.
Thursday, 9 January 2014
Jan. 9, 2014
January
6, 2014 Rosenfeld News by Tina Wolfe
If ever I could have chosen a winter
to be laid up inside, this definitely is the winter for it. I’ve never liked
the bone freezing temperatures and always looked forward to going south for two
weeks. This of course isn’t happening this winter but I like the old arithmetic
in which 2 plus 2 equals four. Guaranteed we’ll have winter again next year and
due to the fact I’m not going this year, well, you get the picture.
Monday, January 06, 2014 and the
kids were supposed to go back to school after Christmas break only to be told
they could go back to bed; the buses weren’t running. I can hear some yahooing
going on in some homes and others where the kids really were ready to go back
to class and tell their friends what they received for Christmas.
Condolences
Christmas is a time for celebrating
and family gatherings but some families in the Rosenfeld area were filled with
sadness when they lost loved ones during this holiday season.
Brian and Roxanne Friesen and their
family were one of those families. Brian’s father, Ed Friesen of Winkler,
formerly of Horndean, passed away on December 16. He was 88 years old. The
funeral service was held in the Winkler Sommerfeld Church on Friday, Dec. 20
with internment at the Rosenheim Cemetery.
Another family was the Grant and
Leona Nickel’s. Grant’s mom, Helen Nickel of Altona, formerly of Weidenfeld
passed away Wednesday, Dec. 18. She was 99 years old and predeceased by her
husband, J.J. Nickel and one son. A memorial service was held on Jan. 3 at the
Altona United Church with a private family burial at the Weidenfeld Cemetery.
A dear, dear friend of mine passed
away Boxing Day, Dec. 26. Kay Lang of Altona, formerly of Rosenfeld was 94
years old. A private funeral service was held on Monday, Dec. 30 at the Wiebe
Funeral Chapel in Altona with internment at the Rosenfeld Cemetery. She was
predeceased by her husband, August and leaves three daughters and their
families to celebrate her life.
Kay and I go a long way back and shared
the love of mowing grass. I helped her out with yard work every summer for many
years; she mowed until the spring she was 91. We had many discussions about her
waiting for God to come get her and I can hear her say when she reached the
pearly gates “It’s about time.” She was one spunky lady and I’m going to miss
her very much.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to
the many families as they go through this mourning period.
Retirement
Congratulations go out to Gail
Shimenek on her retirement from her job at Red River College. From what the
little bird tells me, Gail and Percy will be doing a lot of travelling for the
first few months. We were invited to meet them in Mexico but we’ll have to take
a rain check this year.
Progress
report
Even though I had that ugly stomach
flu for two weeks, I still managed to fit in a few stretching exercises and
surprised my therapist when I went back to physio. As I stated in my last
column, my right knee can go around on the exercise bike and the left knee
bends to a 100 degree angle. My goal was 90 so I think I deserve bragging
rights. There are many challenges in my situation; some of which I would never
have given a second thought. One such challenge is drying between my toes. I
know, it sounds simple. We do it after every bath but I couldn’t put my finger
between my toes after the accident without having a lot of pain. So the other
day when I finally accomplished this feat, I was pumped. Every small step
forward is step in the right direction.
I keep myself busy reading, watching
movies, doing jigsaw puzzles, exercising and playing computer games. Friends
drop by for coffee and stay to chat even during this awful cold snap. Dave has
taken over the kitchen and I think I may allow him to stay even after I can
walk without my 4-wheeler. He makes very good pie and borscht.
Our granddaughter, Amber, is flying
in tonight (Monday) from Germany and we are celebrating her return and
Christmas tomorrow. We can hardly wait; don’t know how I’ll manage to sleep.
Rosenfeld news bt Tina Wolfe Dec. 24, 2013
December
22, Rosenfeld news by Tina Wolfe
The weather outside is frightful but
I hope the warmth within your home and heart keeps you cozy this holiday
season. Take care when travelling and heed the saying “Better late than never.”
Throughout the holiday season enjoy whatever tradition your family has chosen
whether it be gatherings or a quiet night at home.
School program
The Rosenfeld School presented The Legend of the Christmas King as
their Christmas musical on Thursday, Dec.19. I was fortunate enough to attend
and enjoyed the program very much.
The Kindergarten class became little
reindeer while singing Rudolph the Red
Nosed Reindeer and the Grade 1 class donned aprons and chefs hats when
reciting Christmas Cookies. Jackie
Harms, teacher of the Grade 2 class, captured my heart when her class did a
dance routine to Holly Jolly Christmas
by Burl Ives. The Grade 3 class rang ceramic bells and performed Jingle Bells
and Silent Night. Then the Grade 4 class was on stage to read their own poems
entitled Christmas Wishes, many which were printed in the Echo. The Christmas
musical followed which of course portrayed the story of the search for the new
born King. The choir sang throughout the play and the program was done much too
soon.
A huge thank you goes out to the
students and staff of the school. Many hours of rehearsals take place before
the final performance and every year the program is outstanding. A special
thank you goes out to Sheryl Peters for her accompaniment on the piano.
Progress report
I graduated from a 2 wheel to a 4 wheel walker
which makes for a much more fluid walk. I’m still not winning any races but now
can help set the table. This walker has a basket which I can fill with stuff
and cart around. I climbed onto the exercise bike and tried going for a trip
but that’s not happening yet. The right leg makes the entire circle but not the
right leg so I’ll be doing exercises for a while. This cramping flu is still
hanging on and it’s not any fun. All these Christmas goodies standing around
and I can’t eat them. That’s not quite correct; I can eat them but pay dearly
for it at the end of the day.
Rosenfeld news by Tina Wolfe Dec. 19, 2013
December
17, 2013 Rosenfeld News by Tina Wolfe
It’s a beautiful sunny morning on
this Tues. Dec. 17 and I have no reason to wander outside to feel the true
temperature. I wouldn’t have minded going outdoors a bit yesterday when we hit
a balmy -2 but I enjoyed puzzling instead.
Many people around here are down
with the stomach flu. It starts off with a feeling of cramps in the lower
abdominal area which get more and more painful. It feels as though someone has
taken an air hose, attached it into your belly button and filled up your lower
intestine. Just when you feel like bursting, out it comes and you better be
close to a bathroom. How do I know? Well, I’ve just experienced this episode.
I’m one of the lucky ones; mine only lasted one night and only one day with no
food. Family brought noodle soup the second day which stayed in and didn’t
produce any more cramping. Some people are down for a whole week.
Hockey
update
It’s good to report that Simon
Schroeder is on the ice again. I’m sure his team mates had missed him; he’s a
very good defenseman. Conner Winter has been out for a week with that horrible
stomach flu that I just described. Let’s hope he recovers soon and gets his
strength back.
Progress
report
My legs are continuing to get
stronger and I’ve increased my exercises to include some muscle building in my
quads. You normal people have no idea how much you take for granted like how to
get up from a chair. I watch Dave and need to practice where to place my feet
and how to lean forward. I can get up but at this point I still tend to lift my
body with my arms. Now I’m to the point where I need to unlearn this and let my
legs take over. My knees are bending a bit more with a lot of stretching
everyday but I’m still not to the riding bike stage. Soon I will have Dave
bring up the stationary bike and see what I can do. We continue to have great
community support and for that we are extremely thankful.
Dec. 11 Rosenfeld news 2013
Dec.
9 2013 Rosenfeld News by Tina Wolfe
I wouldn’t be a Manitoban if I
didn’t mention the weather. I have only one quote from a song, “Oh baby, its
cold outside.” The wheelchair lift moans and groans as it makes its way up and
down but I have places to go and things to see. I’m sure the students in Border
Land School Division enjoyed the snow day last week. The private schools
canceled already the day before with MCI encouraging parents not to bring their
students to school; they had canceled their bus pickup. Cookie baking and house
cleaning was on the list of many of the parents. Everybody is getting ready for
the holidays.
Hockey
Both Altona Maroon Bantam teams
participated in the tournament held in Winkler Dec. 7 & 8. The Bantam 1
team won their first game against Thompson 7 – 1. The Bantam 2 team tied 4 all
against Brandon. The second game for the Bantam 1 team saw them square off
against Springfield which they lost 6 – 4. The Bantam 2 took on Greendell and
won 7 – 2. Now on to the playoffs and again the two Altona teams played each
other. Like I previously wrote, this makes it very difficult for the spectators
to cheer only for their team. I wish that somehow this could be avoided but
both teams played hard and Bantam 2 won the game 3 – 2. They went on to play
against Brandon but we didn’t stay for that game and I can’t report the score.
Just a short comment to one of the
refs (I could put a name in here but I won’t): the game is not about you. Let
the kids play hockey. If you have to stop and think about what penalty to give
the player it’s time for you to deflate your ego and quit being a ref.
Skating
rink
The lights are on at the local rink
so it must be close to skating time. Work parties have been taking place to
update the facility and a huge thank you goes to all the volunteers. Call the
rink for the days and hours to start skating which is free unless private
groups want a rental.
Progress
report
We have been busy this past weekend
and at first I wasn’t going to write a column but I’ve been told that I have a
following so writing must go on. Pressure, oh my, thank goodness I have the
gift. You know of gabbing or some would call it long windedness. I was able to take in two of the hockey games
in Winkler last weekend which I enjoyed very much. Getting up and down, into
and out of the truck is quite a workout but all part of therapy and good
exercise. If chocolate is on the menu for the holidays, exercise has to be on
the daily schedule. Monday my brother Martin came for a veranika lunch and stayed
for a nice visit and today (Tuesday) my friend Carol is coming for coffee. Like
I said, it’s a busy life. Someone asked me what I do with all my time and I
looked at him with a strange expression. I’m sure he thought I had experienced
some shaking up of my marbles at the time of the accident because I couldn’t
give him an answer. I should have told him to read the column.
I’ve decide to take a break from
therapy for the month of December and do the exercises on my own. January will
be busy again with another trip to HSC which saps all my strength for a week.
Also our granddaughter, Amber is coming home Jan. 6 and I need to concentrate
on getting my legs stronger. I would love to be able to meet her at the airport
so that means exercise and more exercise.
One symptom as the result of the
accident was sore teeth. Now you ask how can a person’s teeth hurt? I have no
answer but there were times when I could barely chew anything harder than
bread. With Christmas around the corner I was beginning to worry about eating
peanuts but like so many other aches I’ve experienced during this healing time;
this symptom has disappeared. Life is good.
Dec.5, 2013
December
1, 2013 Rosenfeld News
It’s Tuesday, December 3 and the
weather forecasters are telling us that a storm system will be moving through
this area today. The snow and the wind is slowly increasing as I work on the
column, maybe we’ll have an old-fashioned storm today. Our freezers are filled
with pork, beef, vegetables, and fruit. Jam and pickles are in the pantry and
the tomatoes are in the freezer waiting to be made into spaghetti sauce. I’ve made and sent a Christmas card to
granddaughter Amber in Germany and will be working on more cards today. Bring
on the storm. I have many projects to work on and computer games to play.
Best
wishes
I would like to send best wishes to
Mike and Anna Wolfe who celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary on
December 5. I’d also like to send a big Happy Birthday wish to a dear friend,
Carol Schroeder who celebrates on December 14.
School
update
The Christmas programs are fast
approaching so here is the list I’ve been able to find so far. The Rosenfeld
School programs will be held Thursday, Dec. 19. It begins with piano prelude at
1:00 pm following with the program at 1:30. Then in the evening again at 6:30
and 7:00 respectively.
The MCI Christmas program will be
held on December 19 and 20 in Buhler
Hall at 7:30 pm.
WC Miller Collegiate’s Candlelight
Service will be performing at Buhler Hall on December 12 and 13 at 7:00 pm.
I will have the date for Altona
Parkside Junior High School’s program next week. I couldn’t find it on their
home page. I will also post the dates and times for the church programs at that
time.
Hockey
update
Tom
Wolfe was picked up to play with the Altona Maroons Midgets against Winkler on
Thursday November 28. They were up during the second period but lost 7-6.
Then the Altona Maroons Bantam 1 took to the ice in Treherne on Saturday, Nov. 30 and lost 8 -7 but who cares when our grandson scored a hat trick in the third period.
Then the Altona Maroons Bantam 1 took to the ice in Treherne on Saturday, Nov. 30 and lost 8 -7 but who cares when our grandson scored a hat trick in the third period.
Progress
report
I thoroughly enjoyed having my
sister Susie stay with me last week. I can’t remember the last time I drank so
much coffee or talked as much. Then on the weekend my sister Eva came out from
Selkirk. She used to work in massage therapy and she gave me the most
incredible foot rub ever. I think I’ve already received two wonderful Christmas
presents.
My glasses were broken in the
accident and Dave and I made a trip to Morden for an examination and the
purchase of a new pair which we picked up this week Monday. Between the two of
us, I managed to get into the truck and away we went. I must admit that the trip
was exhausting and I wouldn’t want to go much further than that at this time.
My walking power is steadily
increasing but I now know how a baby must feel when it takes its first steps.
Its very empowering and a person gets determined to go one step further. Dave
begins hovering when he feels I’ve done enough so I’m very careful not to annoy
him after all he is my care giver at this time. The time will soon come when
I’ll be able to do more things myself and he’ll feel more relaxed.
The rest
of Amber’s Irish vacation
Okay, I’m going
to do this a little bit unorthodox and tell you about my third day in Dublin
before my second, just because I enjoyed my second day the most and want to
save the best for last. On Sunday I took a tour to the west coast of Ireland to
see the cliffs of Moher. It ended up raining all day, which meant that by the
ocean it was also extremely foggy, not to mention windy. I got soaked, but I
managed to catch glimpses in between the cloud cover of the beautiful and wild
view of the sides of the cliffs. We then all piled back into the bus and sort
of drove through the wilds of Ireland until we reached the city of Galway.
There we had the opportunity to walk around for about 2 hours, taking a look at
all of the cute shops and stuff. After that, it was back on the bus and a three
hour bus ride back to Dublin. Once back, I went to get some food and then catch
some sleep before waking up super early the next morning to catch my flight
back to Bremen.
Now, for my favourite day! I had the opportunity to sleep in (8:30, as opposed to 6:15), and then at 11:00, was standing to the side of the courthouse downtown ready to embark on a 3 hour sightseeing tour. We got to have a look inside the Dublin castle, walk around the centre of Dublin, and learn a little bit about Irish history. It was a very enjoyable walk altogether. I ended up leaving half an hour early because I wanted to see the coast of the Irish Sea before it got dark. I took a bus out to a smaller town just outside of Dublin, and toured a small castle there. I then went for a walk on the beach. I walked out on the sand of the Irish Sea as far as I could, and just enjoyed the fresh air until the sun went down. Walking back into town, I found myself a nice restaurant and had fresh fish for supper. Even though I was all by myself, I had a fantastic time.
That was my trip to Ireland. I guess I’m going to have to pray that God will give me a new dream, since this one was fulfilled.
Now, there has been some really exciting stuff happening over here lately! Sunday evening was a big day for Robert, a new friend from Manchester, England: he gave his life to Christ! Me and the rest of the gang were just so excited for him! I really can’t put into words how God has blessed me with friends over here. I was just thinking about something the other day: during the beginning of my stay here in Germany, I was scared to enjoy my time here because I was afraid that I would like it so much that I wouldn’t want to leave. Well everybody, I would just like to announce that, against my will, my fear has come true. I have really grown to appreciate the life that The Lord has given me here. However, let me clarify my problem; I am also super excited to come home and see everybody.
Now, for my favourite day! I had the opportunity to sleep in (8:30, as opposed to 6:15), and then at 11:00, was standing to the side of the courthouse downtown ready to embark on a 3 hour sightseeing tour. We got to have a look inside the Dublin castle, walk around the centre of Dublin, and learn a little bit about Irish history. It was a very enjoyable walk altogether. I ended up leaving half an hour early because I wanted to see the coast of the Irish Sea before it got dark. I took a bus out to a smaller town just outside of Dublin, and toured a small castle there. I then went for a walk on the beach. I walked out on the sand of the Irish Sea as far as I could, and just enjoyed the fresh air until the sun went down. Walking back into town, I found myself a nice restaurant and had fresh fish for supper. Even though I was all by myself, I had a fantastic time.
That was my trip to Ireland. I guess I’m going to have to pray that God will give me a new dream, since this one was fulfilled.
Now, there has been some really exciting stuff happening over here lately! Sunday evening was a big day for Robert, a new friend from Manchester, England: he gave his life to Christ! Me and the rest of the gang were just so excited for him! I really can’t put into words how God has blessed me with friends over here. I was just thinking about something the other day: during the beginning of my stay here in Germany, I was scared to enjoy my time here because I was afraid that I would like it so much that I wouldn’t want to leave. Well everybody, I would just like to announce that, against my will, my fear has come true. I have really grown to appreciate the life that The Lord has given me here. However, let me clarify my problem; I am also super excited to come home and see everybody.
I now have 2
lives in 2 different countries, and to say goodbye to this one in Germany is
going to be hard. It’s not exactly an ending that I pictured, these mixed
feelings that I have, but I think that if I didn’t feel at least a little bit
down about my impending departure, it would be a sign that my 11 months here
have been a waste of time. Although my return trip is exactly 6 weeks from
today, I have decided to live and enjoy this experience here while I still can,
without constantly schlumping about being sad that I’m leaving soon.
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