June 30, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. The Sutherland Family.

For the whole day I had them all by myself. And I have enjoyed every minute. Last evening at 7:30 after a long drive from Prince Edward Island, they arrived. By the time they organized their belongings into their respective rooms, dinner was late. The four children played games in the living room all the rest of the evening. We adults talked while the kids played. We have a chest full of games and they had fun with them. Dinner was easy: rotisserie chicken, salad and fresh baked bread, with carrot cake for dessert. We were all late going to bed. Today was a day to chill out. We talked some more, the kids played more games, Eleanor and Jim went for a walk, Ian and Godfrey explored the rocks and the bicycles, and we all watched the fog come in and go out. Before dinner Isabel, Gabriella and Ian played a rousing game of Monopoly. And they played Tatze after dinner. I came upstairs while the game was still in progress. Everyone had a happy day even though we did nothing unusual or exciting. Being together in a beautiful setting with the air cool was enough for the Mississippi family. Christina and the girls arrive in Halifax at 11:15 which means they will arrive here at almost 2:00. I have left the lights on for them, just in case I am sound asleep. I thoroughly enjoyed both the adults and friends from Mississippi. Now I am looking forward to having our Mississippi family join in the fun.

June 29, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Queens County Transit.

This morning I used the new transit system. I called yesterday to be picked up at 10:30, to be taken to the Hockey arena so I could do my walking. A gentleman named Bill was to pick me up in a van. The cost to me was to be $7. Everything worked as planned. Bill picked me up on time, drove me to the arena, then picked me up an hour later to take me home. I was pleased. The transit system was designed to help those older folks be taken to appointments who are not able to drive. The drivers are volunteers. Gill told me that the service was supposed to be for poor people but I was given the information by my friend Bill S. who knows I am not poverty stricken. He knew I could not drive so he told me all about the system. And he encouraged me to use it. So I did and will use them again when I have no house guests. There are taxis in Liverpool but I bet they cost more than $7. round trip. According to my friend Bill S. the new system is short on customers. So I helped them out by using their service. There is no public transportation on the South Shore. Queens County has started this system to allow those who have no car or are unable to drive be able to get places. Lots of people in Queens are poor so the service should be useful. I hope they survive. I certainly enjoyed the service today.

June 28, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Atlantic Sands.

Once upon a time, there was a convenience store on Main Street but out from the business part of the town. It is close to a spring where lots of people come to fill up big water bottles. They prefer the Spring water to the town water. But it is a destination location. You would never just stumble upon the little store. Five years ago the store closed and stayed boarded up, tight as a drum. On Saturday, Gill showed me the newly opened store. She told me that the young couple have moved here and now bake carrot cake and cheesecakes, in addition to having other convenient products. Gill wanted us to go in and buy a slice of carrot cake. I refused to get out of the car so we went on to the Caledonian Symphony. Anna and I went on Monday to order a cake but they were closed. I called on Tuesday to place an order. It turned out that the lady is the baker but does not bake cheesecake. But she did bake pies. As I will soon have a full house I ordered a carrot cake, an apple pie and multiple cookies. I arranged to pick them up on Friday when Anna could drive me. I burst out laughing when I walked in the door. At least three people had told me about the young couple who opened the store so I fully expected to meet young folks. I had to tell the new owners why I was laughing. The new owners are in their sixties and have come back to Liverpool to retire. They have done a great job with the place. Both the inside and outside look great. Now my fridge and freezers are full of their goodies. This afternoon, at the end of a b busy day, Anna and I drank a cup of herbal tea accompanied by a delicious cinnamon roll. These retired folks are definitely an asset to the community. Atlantic Sands will keep me in desserts for sure. Now why did I not order two apple pies when I will have 10 house guests? Brain freeze I guess.

June 27, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. The Freezer.

When I arrived, the freezer was not plugged in and it was open, which is how I left it. Usually Mary Mac plugs it in but we had enough freezer space between the two new refrigerators to hold everything that she had purchased for me. My old kitchen fridge was full so everything that was in the freezer had to be pitched. A week after I arrived I asked Anna to plug in the freezer. It made a noise and it seemed to be cooling. A few days later, I put a package of bacon in the freezer and it seemed cold. On Friday Anna and I moved items from the garage freezer to the big freezer. All seemed well. On Monday, Anna and I went shopping and bought a bunch of stuff to be kept in the freezer but when we opened the freezer we discovered that although the freezer was cold, the food was not completely frozen. My freezer of 20 years had given up the ghost. We quickly moved the food to the other freezers. And I called MacPhersons in Liverpool. Sure enough, they had one in stock that fit the space so Wednesday my new freezer was delivered and the old one was removed. The young delivery man commented that it seemed to be a big summer for replacing appliances. We both laughed. I still have a washer and dryer, a microwave and a stove, plus a dishwasher that are all also old. And Dave and Irene want me to replace the microwave and stove right now. So far I am reluctant to replace appliances that are working and I heat my dinner every night in the microwave. But with my luck this summer with appliances, I bet some of the remaining appliances will stop working. This seems to be the year for alliances. I am pleased with the effeciency in town. One phone call with a nice young man and the new appliances arrive and get installed. Pretty good service. But enough is enough.

June 26, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. The Rock Ditch.

When we bought this place in February 1999, the adjacent lot and old home were not being maintained. As it was a bit higher than our land, rain water would come from their property onto ours and run down our driveway. The gravel road would erode. So we hired Everett to dig a ditch on our side of the land, along the whole length. The ditch was filled with rocks. The ditch ended in the culvert along the main road. The system worked for many years. Hurrah for Ken for thinking of it and Everett to carrying it out. During heavy rains, Everett would come by to check to be sure the water was still coming out to the road, not across our driveway. But Everett died a few years ago. For the past year we have had torrential rains. Our driveway was washed out twice. Ingram Excavating came each time to fill in the drive. But I asked for a real fix. They gave me three options. I selected the most expensive one but the one that could work for the next 20 years. Evidently the sand and silt fill in the spaces in the ditch so the water just comes across the ditch and down our drive. This week they dug up the ditch and removed all the rocks. They dug it deeper, then filled it up with more stones. The ditch is already draining to the main road. Now I await a heavy rain to check our system. No more eroded driveway for me, I hope, thanks to Ingram Excavating. The young man who fixed the ditch is the same person who plows our snow. He has been doing it for several years so he was delighted to finally meet the folks who live in the house. I introduced him to Ken at the statue. He was duly impressed.

June 25, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Stewart Jenkins.

At 10:00 this morning, I received information from the caterer. They would be unable to bring our meals. They were to begin next Monday. I had spoken withN Nicole twice to be sure they could cater for us this summer and was assured that everything would be in place. But they changed their mind. This summer they are short staffed. On the phone I thought Nicole was upset to be telling me this. I ended up consoling her. But for me, I had a problem. I do not cook. David Jenkins came to my rescue. Gill is having a big party at the Mersey Community Hall in August and she found a new caterer from friend Karen. Gill has hired him to cater the party although she has not yet tasted his cooking. I called Gill for his phone number. I chatted with him and he came to meet with me this afternoon. And he will cook for me. He will bring dinner in the afternoon and put the dinner in the garage fridge. We will heat and eat the dinner, the same system we used with the Riverbank. Disaster averted. Stewart owns Kingfisher convenience store and restaurant in Greenfield. He has owned it and cooked for 32 years. He has always cooked for a living. But when he turned 60, he decided he wanted to be a chef, not a cook so he sold his business and went to culinary school in Halifax. He kept the land, fortunately. He graduated top of the class and now has a certificate saying that he is a master chef. But the new owner was not enjoying the business, so he asked Stewart to buy it back, which he did, but for a lower price. So he and his wife of 25 wears still own and run the Kingfisher Center. But he also does catering to expand his horizon. I enjoyed meeting with him. His wife will deliver ands he will cook. And we will enjoy his cooking. I no longer am worried. Stewart came to my rescue. Whew.

June 24, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. A Fine Idea.

Every so often I have a good idea. Sometimes they actually work out as planned. This afternoon I had an appointment at the Optical company in Liverpool. Before I left, my glaucoma specialist in Jackson had given me the go ahead to rep[lace the lens in the right side of my glasses. My appointment, made from Jackson, was for 4:30 today. My problem was the timing. My helper leaves at 5, so she could take me there but she would need to go home before I would be finished. But I remembered that my friend Sandra lived just a few blocks away so I called her with a plan, which was for me to walk to her home after my appointment, and then allow me to take her to dinner at Lane's Privateer Inn. Then she would take me home. She too thought it a great idea. Everything worked perfectly. When I was leaving the office, a young lady saw me walking carefully and she offered to walk along with me, so I took her up on her offer. Turns out she was one of the Opticians in the place. Her name is Robin and she was charming. I arrived at Sandra's home safely and we both had a walk. Then Robin walked back to her car to drive home to Milton. My scallops at Lane's were excellent. Sandra is a good friend and I was delighted to see her this summer. Her husband Bob died suddenly a few years ago so I was happy to pick her brains about being a successful widow. We drank a glass of wine and we both ate a dessert. And she brought me home to a beautiful evening where the ocean looked like a lake. Both Sandra and I decided my idea was indeed a fine idea.

June 23, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. The Astor Theatre.

The Astor Theatre in the heart of town is a wonderful resource to Liverpool. It has been in operation for well over 100 years and is at the back of the grand old former City Hall. It seats over 300 plus a balcony and is the oldest continuous opera house in the Maritimes. Last year we got new seats at the Astor. Our friend Larry who lives in the yellow house in town actually lives and works in Ottawa at the Cultural Center. They were renovating the place and he was able to pull strings to send their old chairs to the Astor, which was pretty nice. All year, the Astor brings in traveling entertainers. And they also show movies. Since I have arrived I have gone twice: first was a movie called Rocket Boy or maybe Rocket Man, the life of Elton John. I enjoyed the movie. This afternoon I attended The Caledonian Orchestra. They put on a good show and I enjoyed it thoroughly. The players are all from Nova Scotia and practice in Truro. They played lots and lots of pieces all arranged by the conductor. We started and ended With a bag piper marching up and down the building. In addition we saw several Scottish Country Dancers, from a group in Bridgewater. The young girls were charming and gracious and good. We also heard a Barber Shop ladies quartet from PEI. They also were excellent. Accompanied by a fiddle and a squeeze box, a couple had a marionette show. They were fun and funny. The girl on the fiddle was the youngest member of the orchestra and also is the top fiddle player in Nova Scotia. The concert was fast moving. The very Scottish MC kept the afternoon moving along. And we sang Scottish and Irish songs together: Roaming in the Gloaming, Loch Lomond and many more. I feel fortunate that the county of 5000 has a theatre we can all enjoy throughout the year. I intend to attend as many as possible as long as Gill does not mind taking me. Nice to have a good friend and a fine theatre.

June 22, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Dograham Lincoln.

They call him Linc. He is the newest member of the Dickie family in Texas. Every one is excited because he is a 12 week old Weimereiner and is adorable. Even Moose likes him. David and Suzanne drove to Waco today to pick him up from the breeder. Now they have a puppy to love and train. A few months ago their old yellow lab died of old age. He was a wonderful dog in every way. Moose loved it when David was recuperating from surgery because Moose is lonely. And Moose too is getting old. He is 9 years old and is gray on his muzzle. He is happy when David walks instead of runs and he never just runs in the yard. He is still a wonderful old dog. When I was with them, we discussed getting another dog but Suzanne and David both thought they would wait. But an opening appeared and today they went to pick up their new puppy. They are happy. Moose is an agreeable dog so I feel sure he will teach Linc through his paces. This is a perfect t time for them to have a puppy because Suzanne will be home for the summer. And David will spend time training the dog. Their dogs have always been well behaved and a pleasure to have them around. The puppy is dark gray, called a blue. This is the forth of that breed. Now I look forward to seeing him in October. He has a big name for a little dog, Dograham Lincoln. We will all call him Linc.

June 21, 2019. Western Head, Noca Scotia. The Basement Drain.

One thing leads to another. A month ago or more, a downspout came off the house. Walt called George to put it back which he did. But the week before I arrived and before the downspout was installed, , three days of torrential rain fell. All the water ended up in my cellar. Three feet of water was in the cellar. Walt got someone with a pump and the water was removed. The heating man came to check the furnace and much to his surprise it was fine so all was well when I arrived. The house was warm and cosy. Many many years ago a drain was put in the cellar. It was probably put in almost 125 years ago. It was a pipe leading to a French drain filled with rocks and stones. The drain was still working, but very slowly. Over the years, the silt and sand fills in the holes around the rocks so the water stops flowing. Since I arrived, the excavating company dug up the old drain. They also had to remove a section of the deck in order to dig right to the old house foundations. They installed a long 6 inch pipe running almost to the shore. They filled it in and replaced the deck back into place. Now we all hope I am set for the next one hundred years. I was impressed. The men worked for one and a half days using one digger and three men. They were efficient and competent. Even they were surprised when the whole thing went together so well. The issue with the cellar drain is over. Now I must pay the bill.

June 20, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. White Point Resort.

Today I had planned to take Peter out to lunch. He drives me to the Readers Festival so I wanted to thank him for driving me this summer in advance. I dressed for lunch, then discovered that he had to cancel and reschedule for next week. But I was left being all dressed up with nowhere to go. I felt bummed. So I called to see if I could take Mary and Walt out for lunch. Even though it was a spur of the moment, they were pleased to accompany me. I was delighted. The day was lovely so we decided to drive to White Point, which is about a 20 minute drive down the coast. We sat in the lounge area beside a big window and declared it the best seat in the house. I sat overlooking large rocks and the ocean with the sun coming and going during the meal. The spot was excellent as was the food. The menu is almost the same as last year which is fine. My brother Dave says it is now his favorite restaurant. The place looked good both inside and out. The parking lot seemed full which means they are staying busy. This lodge and resort has been in operation for over 100 years. After the fire, the main lodge is spiffy but comfortable. I was pleased to have lunch there today. This was a surprise because I was taking Peter to Lane's. The food and the company were all top drawer. I loved the drive and the scenery and food. It was a treat for me to have lunch at White Point today..

June 19, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Slippers.

Monday afternoon, Anna, my helper, and I went into town to run errands. First we left Ken's belongings at The Salvation Army Thrift Store. Next we looked at chairs in the Hardware store. We looked outside on their deck and also looked inside. Next we went to the bank so I could withdraw Canadian money. Finally we went to the Arena to set up my membership and to walk. My feet hurt witch is unusual for me but I thought that I had not been walking too far in Texas so perhaps I had not lost conditioning. I only walked 4 laps. And we came home. When I sat on the chair where I take off my shoes and reached for my laces, I discovered that I had been wearing my pink slippers all afternoon. No wonder my feet felt odd. I had just walked one kilometer in slippers. No one noticed. I did not look at my feet and neither did Anna. In the future she will check my feet to be sure I am wearing walking shoes. When I told the story at dinner on Monday evening, and said something about seeming competent, Mary suggested that I used to be competent but probably we are all slipping. Clearly I am not up to snuff when I wear slippers to town. Pretty funny I thought. Just something else to keep me humble.

June 18, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. A Busy Day.

I have used the same cleaning service for over 15 years but ten years ago, the small company was purchased by a man who had moved to Liverpool to retire. He made his money by buying companies who were struggling and fixed them up until profitable, then sold them. Ken and I got to know them but never got to know them well. But we were friendly at social events and in town. The first thing he did when taking over was to upgrade the accounting system. The former owners were from Newfoundland and we liked their quirky ways. They would send me a bill for the whole season, when we were just heading home. All was well but I missed the former owners and when the cleaning deteriorated, my friend Mary Mc. said I needed a change. So I hired the lady who cleans for Gill. And I fired my old company. Also the Culligan water company man checked the systems in both houses. They will return to the Guest House next week to install a rod to the hot water heater to remove the sulphur smell. And the electrician, John, installed a new system for lights in the garage. Every year when I arrive the lights do not work well so George needs to replace them. John assures me that the new system will be working when I come in June of 2020. The first task when we purchased this home was to install a new roof, so 21 years ago the roof was newly installed by George, our builder. I had a metal roofing contractor come to give me an estimate. Whew. No warranty on metal roofs on the shore, and a price of $29,000. Fortunately, he said the roof looks pretty good so should last a few more winters. Then at the end of the day, Gill came to see how I liked her cleaning lady Jackie. I gave a favorable report. And we had a good short visit. My day was productive and pleasant. And to top it all off, the weather was lovely but breezy. Pretty good day all round.

June 17, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Dinner Party # 1.

Mary and Cliff had a Welcome to Ruth dinner tonight. Mary and Walt picked me up while Gill walked. we were a select group of 6. We were delighted to be together again. When we first moved here we were told that if we did not like the weather right now, just wait a bit and the weather would change. This morning the day was cold and damp. Then the sun came out in the afternoon and at dinner we sat outside on the Mitchell's deck and ate delicious Canadian cheese snd crackers. It was warm and comfortable until the black flies came out. Mary outdid herself with dinner. We ate a delicious dinner of steak, asparagus, mashed potatoes and salad. Blueberries and watermelon in a bowl along with cookies for dessert. The dinner was spectacular which sets a high standard for the rest of us. But we were delighted to be together to celebrate the first of many social events together during the summer of 2019.

June 16, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. A Work Day.

Anna is my new helper. She will work Monday and Friday each week, helping to do things that I am not able to do on my own, such as drive the truck and carry the laundry basket downstairs. She is a good worker and I like her. She is a Mother of 6 so she is used to hard work. Today had the potential of being a sad day because we organized the closets. But we had a good cheery time. And we got the job done. I asked the helper to work one extra day in order to organize and Anna was willing. After Ken died, one of the twins commented that the closet in Mississippi looked as if someone had just died so Suzanne and the twins moved everything around so my clothes looked better. They did the trick by not allowing me to feel sad every time I walked into the closet. Anna and I did the same thing today. In addition, Anna inspected every shirt of mine. I can not see spots on my T shirts. Today we culled out the rejects. Tomorrow we will take a trip to the Thrift Store. After lunch we organized the garage. The deck furniture is out but not ion place. Today was too chilly to sit outdoors. The tables are out too and everything in the garage in place. We had a productive day, thanks to Anna and her energy. We still have a few tasks to do before I am ready for the summer. The closet off my bedroom needs sorted. And we have yet to look into the workshop. Today was a productive happy day. And I am relieved to put it behind me.

June 15, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Living Here in NS.

No wonder I love living here. The house is charming overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. I can hear the crashing of the waves all day and all night, even though I may not be looking at the sea. The rhythmic pounding of the waves is somehow or another reassuring that life always goes on. Twilight comes late, which is another pleasure. Now it its almost 9:00 and the sun has not yet set. Last evening it was light past 10. The home itself iS not big but the walls are full of lovely art, all pieces done by Nova Scotia artists. Today I wandered around enjoying every piece. Ken and I purchased every piece together so he is very much part of living here. And this pleases me. Today was a perfect example of life at Western Head. Gill called at 9 to ask is I wanted to come to the grocery store because she was leaving soon. I was not down stairs so by the time I listed to my messages she was home. But I appreciated her gesture. At 4:00, Cliff stopped by to welcome me. We talked for almost an hour. Just as we were saying goodbye outside, Gill stopped by for 15 minutes as she was heading to a meeting at the Marina. And an hour after Gill left, our former cleaning lady stopped by to give me condolences on the passing of Ken. Her husband Bryan died at the beginning of the year so we commiserated together. She had not yet seen the statute of Ken so as she left she inspected it and commented that Ivan did such a good likeness of Ken that it was spookie. She is now back working at McDonalds. So I enjoy the scenery, the house and my friends. The clean air is also a plus. Today the temperature was a pleasant 70. With the breeze, it feels chilly...but still pleasant. I had a good night's sleep and today puttered around. I think I am back to normal. I certainly am enjoying this lovely spot.

June 14, 2019. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Home At Last.

The day is gorgeous. Stiff breeze. Sunshine sparkling on the water. White caps as far as you can see. Just beautiful, Mary was waiting to greet me and carry my case upstairs. And Gill walked over to say hello too so we three friends got together for a chat. One of the pleasures is friends who can walk over to say hello. It is very special. I am weary today after my night at the airport. I hated to spend $400. for a three or four hours at the hotel. So I convinced myself that it would be fine. "How difficult could it be?" I asked myself. Well I found out. But I made it safe and sound and by tomorrow I will have fully recovered. I will go to bed early. Today I am puttering around and will do the same thing tomorrow. I am having a helper two days a week, Monday and Fridays. And she will work with me on Sunday to organize the garage and the deck furniture as well as attending to Ken's belongings. We will take his clothes to the Salvation Army Thrift store, which would please him. Mary and Gill both look good. Our season has started. Mary and Cliff have invited me along with Gill and Walt and Nary for a welcome to Western Head dinner. By then I will not be weary!!.

June 14, 2019. Toronto AirPort.

For the first time in my life, I stayed all night at he airport. The story is long. My flight as cancell from Chicago to Halifax. I was switched to Toronto to stay overnight. But the flight was delayed. By the time I got through customs it was 1:30. My flight was at 7. So I would have spent just a few hours in h expnsive hoteil.. so I said, nuts. I will stay in the airport. Not the smartest thing I have ever done. But here I am. Walking and talking and getting ready to board the flight to Halifax. . Every travel is an adventure.

June 12, 2019. San Antonio, Texas. Temperature.

Now begins the inside season in Texas. On Sunday, David worked in the yard from 8 to 12. When he came inside, he was pouring sweat and declared that working outside was impossible. The temperature was 97. Then in the evening it rained and a big storm was supposed to hit the area. We had lots of rain and thunder, but no big storm. But a front came through so late in the morning, Suzanne and I went for a walk. As we walked out of the house, Suzanne commented on how cool it was. As we walked, we met neighbors and working people who all mentioned the weather. They were all so pleased that the weather was cool. Finally, I said to Suzanne that the weather was not actually very cool. By my phone the temperature was 84, which in Liverpool would be a hot summer day. Suzanne agreed and we laughed but for Texans, when the temperature could be 100 in June, getting 84 is a welcome respite. In the winter in Canada people stay indoors unless they are having fun in the snow and ice so it becomes the indoor season. The same is true for Texas but reversed. In the summer months, people stay indoors unless they are playing outside in the water or the beach. This is the indoor season. But I am escaping. Tomorrow I fly to Halifax where when the temperature turns 80 they feel it is unconscionably hot. When I arrive at home in Western Head I will put on my wool socks to keep warm. And I will enjoy the clean non muggy air. Their outdoor season is just beginning. I am just in time.

June 11, 2019. San Antonio. Now we are Three.

Suzanne is attending an in service training course in Austen. She left yesterday evening and will be home Thursday afternoon, so David, Abigail and I are alone together. And we are having a good time. Last evening we watched the basketball game together which was great fun. They cheer for Golden State while I root for Toronto. During the day, they go to work while I stay home with Moose who keeps me company in the house. Last evening, Suzanne prepared dinner for all of us which she ate before she left. This evening for dinner we ate the tomato basil soup that Suzanne prepared on Sunday. David's garden is so prolific that the tomatoes can not possibly be eaten so cooking is the answer. The soup was a winner. In addition, Abigail prepared grilled cheese sandwiches and a caprise salad with lots of tomatoes and cheese and basil. Delicious dinner. David and Abigail suggested we watch a movie tonight and selected, "MIRACLE ON ICE," which I had never seen. I watched the original game and certainly knew all about it but I enjoyed the movie, which was well done. So far we three are doing well. Tomorrow I will accompany them to the shooting range after they finish work. Then we will dine on Japanese food. During the day I will get organized for the journey north to Nova Scotia. The outside temperature is telling me to go north. I am enjoying life here at home in San Antonio. David and Abigail are looking after me very well. Small groups are good.

June 10, 2019. San Antonio, Texas. A True Story.

Teddy's family is in the military and lived in a place where there was no need for Teddy to get a drivers license. Last year he with his family moved to San Antonio, where driving is not an option but a necessity. And he enrolled at the same school as Allison. After the school year, he took the course required by law, and he took the practice required to gain expertise. And he took the test and passed with flying colors. The parents bought Teddy a used small car. He was happy. On the same day as he obtained his driver's license, he called Allison to go out with him for lunch to celebrate his license. He picked her up in his new to him automobile and headed to the restaurant. But he was forced to turn left. Just as he was completing his turn a car him on the right side, fortunately at the back door. Everyone was fine but the airbag went off which is a bit of shock so Allison was shaken up as was Teddy. Both set of parents along with the police arrived in short order. But the reality of the situation was that on the first day that Teddy received his license, he also had his first accident. Fortunately, no one was injured but the car was a total loss. From now on, Allison had stated that when they go out anywhere, she will drive in her big truck. No more little cars for her. She has owned a driver's license for two years with no accidents. "From now on, I will drive," said Allison. Teddy gets a lot of jokes around his big day. We did all laugh too. Poor Teddy is not amused.

June 9, 2019. San Antonio, Texas. Texs Storm.

Now is the lull before the storm. While we are all watching the hockey game, we are being told that a severe thunder storm is on the way. We will get high winds, hail, heavy rain and thunder and lightning. The storm is on the way. In San Antonio, the electricity often stops working. And David said that the satellite signal always goes out. We are expecting to lose the hockey game very soon. The electricity soon to follow. I can already hear the thunder in the distance. While the game is between periods, I will complete my wee blog. Samantha and Allison went to camp today for a week. Today was incredibly hot. David worked in the yard this morning but by noon he said it was too hot. We all stayed in the house all afternoon. The twins drove themselves to camp. Our family is shrinking. Abigail is the only girl at home. Next week, she will work at David's office, which will be her last week of work. Next week she will get organized, ready to spend 5 weeks in Italy, taking a course given by Furman, her University. The course is the Renaissance. They will visit three cities, studying art, architecture and literature. At the end, she will get credit for the course. It is a class I would love to take. Suzanne too. Abigail leaves the week after next. One week later Sarah arrives home from Australia. Allison will work at camp as a counsellor the week after next, and Samantha the week after that. This is a busy family. For two hours this afternoon David and I watched Antiques Road Show. He records them all for me, just in case I missed one or two. Suzanne again cooked all afternoon, using up all the tomatoes from the garden. Then she brought us cheese and crackers to the three of us in the living room. The cheese was sharp Canadian cheddar cheese, given to me by Wendy and Ken. I saved it and brought it to Texas because I knew David loves sharp Canadian cheese. It was a hot. Now we await the storm which should be exciting. I am glad that we are home but I am not sure about the folks at the camp. But I am ready for an exciting Texas storm.

June 8, 2019. San Antonio, Texas. A Happy Day.

The last thing we did today on this happy day was watch Moneyball on TV. Suzanne ordered it and paid for it and we watched together. Every one in the family was there except Sarah who is still in Australia. The girls had not read the book but all the adults had read it years ago. And Suzanne and David had actually seen the movie. But it is a movie worth watching again and we all enjoyed watching it. After dinner, the girls made brownies so during the movie we ate our dessert of brownies and ice cream. Our dinner was splendid. David smoked lamb chops which were juicy with full of flavor. Suzanne cooked a vegetable dish of eggplant, squash and tomatoes which was delicious. Abigail does not like eggplant but the rest of us voted to keep the recipe. The salad was made of fresh cucumbers from the garden, feta cheese and fresh tomatoes just gathered from David's garden. Dinner was a big hit. We 6 discussed the question of how young women protect themselves from sexual predators. All three girls gave good answers and It was clear to me that they knew how to look after themselves. Suzanne cooked all afternoon, using up all the tomatoes. She cooked tomato basil soup, tomato puree for the freezer and another dish with eggplant that I can not spell. The tasters were pleased with the results. David and I watched the tennis semi final, which was played yesterday. But neither of us had watched the match so we had fun. At noon, David came to pick me up at the lake. I spent the morning getting ready to leave the lake house so I was ready when he arrived for me. We drove home on back roads to avoid 281 which I enjoyed. So my stay at the lake is over. Now I will enjoy the family here in San Antonio. Today was one happy day for me.

June7, 2019. Canyon Lake, Texas. kommonsentsjane

Joyce and Robbie came to see me today at the lake. Even though we have been good friends at the ranch for 16 years, they had never been to the lake so this morning they drove over from their ranch, which is just across the street from our ranch. They still have a few head of our longhorns. I had not seen them since we last left the ranch in 2017 so I was delighted to see them, especially as they are both looking well. We talked family. And we talked Harper. And we talked Puerto Vallarta. They just returned last Friday after three weeks there. And we talked politics, which I enjoyed. Fourteen years ago, I encouraged Joyce to write her own blog. She has an interesting personal family history and I wanted it documented. She investigated her options and finally decided yes. But she wanted to write a political blog. She has been writing it every day for over 13 years. Her blog is called kommonsentsjane. She hears comments on her blog from people all over the world. Google often delete her blog or parts of it because she discusses controversial topics. But she has had fun with it. And it keeps her up to date with her reading. We talked about her few recent topics which we discussed at length. She says she never writes a blog without having some facts and figures. For lunch we went to Gennaro's Italian Bistro, the best restaurant at the lake. Our food was delicious. When we got home to the lake we talked again. Then at 4:30 they had to head for home, a drive of about 2 hours. Now I must catch up on Joyce's blog. For a few weeks I was unable to pull it up, perhaps because I misspelled the name. But I have it now. Her blog is always lively and controversial. I am impressed. And I was especially impressed when they drove all this way to spend the day with me. They paid the lunch bill too. Such friends!!

June 6, 2019. Canyon Lake, Texas. The French Open.

Normally I do not watch much tennis, especially when played on clay. I find the long rally tedious. I want them to do something else than just bash the ball back and forth. But this time at the lake all by myself I have thoroughly enjoyed The French Open. Something has changed. Now I saw drop shots, and even volleys. The matches were for the most part exciting. Ken never enjoyed watching tennis which is probably why we watched so little tennis. Here at the lake, with the tennis channel showing the French Open all day and all evening, I could eat breakfast while watching tennis. I had fun. The programming started at 5:00 in the morning and continued until the night came in Paris, about 3:00 here. Then the whole day was replayed which was perfect for me. Off and on, I watched throughout the day so I was able to watch most of the important matches. In the semi-finals on the mens side we will see the top four seeds, something that is rarely seen. Tomorrow morning Federer and Nadal will play at 7:00 our time. I will eat breakfast watching that match. On the women side there are 2 teenagers playing in the semis. One American I had never hears of. No top seeds on the ladies side. Anything might happen. Perhaps because I have been by myself at the lake, watching the French Open kept me company. I was also reading a book that I kept by my chair on the main room upstairs so I alternated watching, reading and doing chores such as preparing meals. I have had a good week and enjoyed myself. Of course I also had both basketball and hockey playoffs at night. Pretty good for me. My timing has been perfect.

June 5, 2019. Canyon Lake, Texas. Deck Furniture.

we bought the deck furniture over 20 years ago, as soon as the old house had been redone. Ken and I went shopping because Suzanne was busy with Sarah and Abigail had just arrived. When we asked Suzanne what we should buy, she responded that the only thing she wanted was to buy heavy furniture as Sarah always organized the chairs. So we bought heavy furniture. The furniture has stood up well. We bought 13 chairs and one large and one small tables. Every so often the seat would slip out but Ken ordered the cord and all was well. Except a few years ago Ken was unable to put the cord through the seat. He found a place in Austin who repaired deck furniture. Ace Outdoor Resoration is the name. Trace came and picked up the chairs and returned them all fixed. We were happy. Ten years ago Ken and I were in an outdoor store and spotted two expensive chairs very much on sale, so we bought them along with one footstool to match. We were at the store in the late Fall to buy chairs for the ranch but those two chairs were too good to pass up. After a few days at the lake we decided to order a second footstool and discovered it was very expensive. We bought it anyway. Those two chairs and footstools are the most comfortable chairs on the deck but when I arrived this visit I discovered that the front on both chairs had broken away. You could sit on it but not for long. I called Trace at Ace. He came this afternoon to pick up two chairs where the fabric had ripped plus the two expensive chairs. On the phone he told me he thought the chairs were Brown Jordon which he said was the most expensive chairs on the market. Who knew? When he looked at the chairs he concurred with his guess. Now he must contact the company and buy the slings from them which sometimes takes 4 weeks. Then he must install the fabric which is not an easy task. And not an inexpensive fix. But he assured me today that if we wanted to purchase new chairs, we could expect to pay $1,500. each. I am pleased to have them repaired thanks to Trace at Ace Outdoor Restoration.

June 4, 2019. Canyon Lake, Texas. Beautiful Objects.

We were not able to come to Texas in 2018 so many of the objects I have not seen for a couple of years. I had forgotten what was here but as I prowled around looking at everything both large and small I was pleased. On the mantle is a lovely glass vase, given to Ken and me by Dave and Irene many years ago. It was hand done by an artist in Hamilton, Ontario. Once upon a time it graced our home on Franklin Street and was lovely when the light from the solarian in the afternoon lit it up. Next it went to our condo in Chevy Chase and then to the farm. We drove it with us to the ranch where it sat on the buffet on the Top House. Finally it rests on the mantel of the main room at the lake house. It is an especially important piece of art because the artist has died. It is a beautiful piece of blown glass with a heavy base and swirling colors of blue, purple and pink. On the other end of the mantel are two pieces of decorate art made at the Wimberley Glass. They have been in business for 25 years in the little town just north of Canyon Lake. The Master Artist is the owner along with his wife. They give demonstrations of glass blowing, which we have seen half a dozen times. We have visited their shop ever since we moved here. We own 6 glasses with dark blue half way up the glass as well as one purple beer stein. A few years ago they moved to a bigger shop and they no longer make mundane items such as glasses and steins. About ten years ago we bought those two pieces of glass, which are beautiful. They always sat at each end of the mantel in the Top House. They look lovely here at the lake, where I guess they will stay. We brought all our art from the ranch and David and Suzanne hung them all. I love looking at them. Years ago I started a collection of paintings of women reading, after Irene gave me a book of postcards of paintings of women reading. We bought our first and last painting at the Green house Gallery in San Antonio. Now the painting looks down at me from the wall in the main house. Our art here is wonderful and I enjoy walking around looking at every piece. I am delighted to be able to enjoy all these beautiful objects here at the lake house.

June3, 2019. Canyon Lake, Texas. The Library Store.

This morning when I got out of bed I realized that my night dress had ripped right down the back. I felt sad. The night dress was made of very light fine cotton. It had little white buttons all down the front, with tucks all across the front. It was blue and long and I always wore it at the lake when the weather was hot. I bought that nightdress at The Library Store in Harper , Texas for the princely price of $1. I would never have purchased it in a real store because it would have been too expensive. but for $1. I loved it and wore it cheerfully for ten years. The Library Store is in business to provide extra funds for the Harper Library. People donate objects and clothing to the store and the volunteers sort and display them for sale. Once a year they have a major sale to raise even more money. Ken and I shopped there regularly. On Tuesdays, senior citizens had a 20% discount. Every time we were at the ranch we shopped at the Library Store. We loved the place. One day Ken bought 5 pair of pants which cost him ten dollars. I have a long dressing gown I bought at The Library Store for two dollars. I wore it when David and Suzanne were here. In the early part of the 19th Century, The Harper Library was in action prior to the establishment of the Texas Library system so volunteers obtained donations of books in order to start the library. Committees in Harper raised money to buy books. When the State took over the library, the locals kept the fund raising going. They put computers in the Library long before any other Library and they gave classes. So the Library Store has a long tradition of raising money. I feel sorry not to shop in Harper. The days of good buys are over. I already miss my pretty blue nightdress purchased at The Library Store in Harper, Texas, just down the road from the ranch.

June 2, 2019. Canyon Lake, Texas. Sitting on the Deck.

This evening we sat on the deck. Sitting on the deck is lovely especially in the evenings. We look to the east so in the afternoon we are in shade. The wind always comes up a bit so we get no bugs. The temperature is warm enough to be comfortable so after everyone came in from the boat and took a shower, we met on the deck where Suzanne brought out appetizers and we had a drink. We enjoy each others company and we talked about the events of the day. Samantha drove the boat back to the marina with David. And she docked the boat to get gas then parked the boat it the slip. Last week when she did it for the first time she rammed with gas dock. But today was perfect. She was pleased with her progress. Suzanne went tubing today and got a water burn on her arm. Our time on the deck was pleasant. I was on the deck. Samantha and Allison were there along with David and Suzanne and of course Moose. Last week when I was by myself at the lake I sat on the deck most evenings and discovered that sitting with a good view is not as much fun when you are alone. I sat watching the world go by except nothing happened. One evening I saw two boats go by the deck. I took my orange rink onto the deck and it was not easy to stay there by myself. I watched the birds. And I watched the clouds. And I counted the houses on the far shore. The view from the deck is charming but sitting on the deck by myself is not nearly as much fun as sitting talking with the Family. Today was perfect. Good company. Good food and drink. Good weather. Just perfect tonight sitting on the deck.

June 1, 2019. Canyon Lake, Texas. Dinner Party.

Tonight we were invited for dinner by Debbie and Heath. This was a dinner party in the style of Canyon Lake. The evening was casual yet elegant. Their three children were there along with the twins. Abigail stayed in San Antonio. The kids stayed with the adults all evening. They did not disappear to play a game. They stopped to talk. We had just two families, ten people in all so we sat together at the dining table which was a lot of fun. Debbie and Heath live in Austin so only see the San Antonio family at the lake so when they are both at the lake they have dinner together, kind of taking turns. Once upon a time, they lived in San Antonio and attended the same Episcopal Church as David and Suzanne, as did Bonnie and Wade. Debbie and Heath moved 6 years ago but have kept in touch. Bonnie and Wade bought their lake house 6 years ago and Debbie and Heath have owned on the lake for three years. Their home is a big comfortable house and they like it. It takes them just over an hour to get here from Austin. Dinner was delicious. Cheese and crackers, salami and pickles for appetizer. Perfect for the red wine. Chicken and beef kabobs on the grill with lots of grilled vegetables. Rice and salad too. For dessert we ate grilled fresh local peaches and ice cream. The dinner was casual but elegant. I enjoyed the food and the company. Entertaining Canyon Lake style is a delight.