Gratitude Monday -- There Were Croutons Everywhere

I am a messy eater. I can't recall if I've outed myself about this here or not, but it doesn't matter.
I am, and I don't care.
That alone is something for which to be grateful.
Yesterday we went for a drive out west and had lunch in Nordegg. I had a chicken caesar salad and a Coke. The server had warned me it was big. She was not kidding. It was piled high as a haystack on the plate.
A forkful or two in something happened. I either speared it wrong or my fork slipped because several croutons jumped up and made good their escape to the floor.
I looked down to find a ring of them around my chair as though I were in the middle of a protective spell.
I'm used to this sort of thing. I can get as much food on the floor, table, or various parts of my face and clothing as I do in my mouth.
Oh, sure I've tried to fix it, but nothing works.
I eat slowly. When I try to add carefully to the mix it simply underscores the resulting mess so I rarely bother.
A few bits of lettuce slipped onto the table. Those were eaten while trying to escape.
At one point a small bit of something flew up into my eye.
Annoying as it was at least it was something new.
Bits of salad landed in my lap at times as well. I shook my head and ploughed on.
I ate most of it, but could not finish it so gave it to my husband while I finished my Coke.
When we got up to leave I managed to tip the glass over sending the ice cubes skittering along the table.
The server more than earned her tip.
Most people would be embarrassed about this sort of thing.
I'm not.
I made the choice years ago to embrace my mess. I have tried to be a neat eater, but it simply does not work out. Further, I like messy food.
I am grateful I have this outlook. It makes life fun.

Photo-Finish Friday -- The Alley To The Sea

An invitation to walk to the water on Paros.

Gratitude Monday - Everything Works Edition

I got out of bed this morning and everything worked.
My body, my mind, the house, the world in general.
All was as it should, and for it I am grateful.

Gratitude Monday --Beer Edition

I had a beer yesterday.
It was a craving that had been with me for a few weeks.  Because of the gluten involved I don't often drink it, but I do like it.
Up until a few years ago I kept de-alcoholized beer around and had the regular stuff as an occasional treat, usually when travelling.
Then along came yesterday and a decision to cave to the craving.  I wandered around a cold beer store for a few minutes wondering what I wanted.
Eventually I settled on Moosehead Lager.
It was a good decision and for it I am grateful.

Photo-Finish Friday -- Frozen Bubbles Edition

Lake Abraham, along Highway 11, is home to the famous frozen bubbles.

They're the stuff that looks white  on the lake ice in the above pic.

It an easy hour and a bit drive from my house to this spot and it is one of my favourites.

Gratitude Monday -- Colonoscopy Ahead

I'm slated for a colonoscopy in June and I for it I am grateful.
Why?
Because, as a colon cancer bester* I need one. In fact I have to have one each year for five years before any doctor will take the big step of calling me cancer free.
Good for them. I feel no such restriction myself, but their way offers proof.

Last Monday I met briefly with my cancer surgeon. He reviewed results of a blood test I have to get done every three months. Everything is normal. In fact, the level of CEA was lower than the first one and it was well within normal ranges.
I am grateful for that, too.

Meanwhile, back to the colonoscopy.
Just because one needs a procedure here it doesn't mean one is going to get it.  Many who should be having a colonoscopy, or any number of other medically necessary procedures, have to wait.  It is in part the nature of the health care system, and in part because this is Alberta and doctors have to fight for and justify care for their patients.
You have to be really sick to get any help. If you are tolerably suffering you're out of luck.
Further, around the world those who need medical intervention either don't qualify to have it covered or simply can't pay for it and have to suffer.

It also means I am around to have the colonoscopy, and that I am healthy.  Were I on my death bed there wouldn't be a lot of sense taking someone else's place in line.

I don't have to be on too bland a diet before the procedure and I am grateful for that, too.  I can't have anything with seeds in it so the tomatoes and cucumbers in the salads will be stripped of their seeds for the week prior to the it.
--
*I can't bring myself to say survivor without cringing. That word suggests a long period of trial resulting in triumph. It's for all who have to fight to stay alive.
Cancer had a limited impact on me. I barely noticed I had it and as it stands right now it is like it never happened.
I am grateful for that, too.

Photo-Finish Friday - Step Inside

The 14th Century Trakai Castle, Lithuania

Exploring Artistree

As noted in earlier posts, I've been drawing. 

I'm enjoying myself and I like to think I've learned a bit and improved somewhat.

But what is important is I am enjoying myself. I like the feel of the pencil in my hand and I love squeezing and shaping the kneaded eraser to get it just right.

In fact, some of the most fun I have drawing is erasing.

Currently I am having a blast drawing trees.

They're fun, they're filled with character, and they are quite forgiving.

The roots need a lot more work, but each in its own season.

Have you ever wanted to do express yourself, do something creative, but were reluctant to take the first step?

There's no need to deprive yourself.

Do it.

Get out and fail.

Do a lousy job.

Then get better at it or walk away.

The point is give it a shot.

How else will you know if you're any good?

Gratitude Monday --Mr. Spock Goes Home

Leonard Nimoy in Vulcan, Ab., April 2010

Leonard Nimoy came home to Vulcan (Alberta) in 2010 and for it I am grateful.

My friend and I went to the event, taking in the Vulcan Tourism and Trek Centre, the parade, and getting to see Mr. Nimoy himself, in person and up fairly close.

We had a blast.

We even drank Romulan Ale, brought in specially for the event.

And along the way we met a new friend with whom I engage regularly on Face Book.

It was a wonderful day. It will live in our memories forever.
Thank you, Leonard Nimoy.