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**UPDATED PHOTOS **

"If you cannot get rid of the family skeleton, you may as well make it dance."

George Bernard Shaw

Traipsing through the charming Fermanagh, Northern Ireland countryside in search of my ancestry brings joy to my soul. Linking to my past is essential for me to understand part of who I am and why my family functions in the manner it does. I embrace the "skeletons" as well as the honour my family embodies in the community.

Archie Crozier lived on the farm across the road from my maternal grandfather's farm until his death yesterday. He was my last link to my grandfather's family. No more yarns while sipping tea nestled in front of the peat -stoked fire in his cozy, warm kitchen. I adore the scent of the peat fires diffusing through the crisp air of Northern Ireland. Breathing in this essence is refreshing and makes me feel alive.

The peat, or "turf " fields

The village hasn't really changed from when my grandfather was born back in 1898. This amazes me, especially coming from a city in such a young country that is constantly changing and growing. I can't describe how it felt to walk the same roads my grandfather walked. To wander around my grandfather's farm which is still basically the same - only a few minor renovations have been made, like thatched roofs on the barns were replaced with tin. The stone farmhouse has been mended and is still perched on the hill overlooking the village of Kilskerry. The lush, green rolling hills separated by stone walls are a sight to behold. Breathtaking. I can visualize my grandfather guiding his donkey, loaded with bails of hay, up the long, winding drive to the barn.

I found a pic of this winding drive up to my grandfather's farm. It was taken from the car in the pouring rain. This entrance is right across the road from the entrance to Archie's farm.

Once again another photo taken from the car due to the pouring rain. My grandfather's farm is the cream house in the distance. These pictures do not capture the beauty of this countryside. In past visits to Northern Ireland, I took some wonderful photos - before digital. I was able to capture the view from the farm which is phenomenal! Maybe I will scan them one day:)

The train station, Bundoran Junction, where my grandfather caught the train to the seaside is still standing. The tracks are gone, but I can still hear the sound of the steam engine pulling out of the station crowded with excited passengers headed for a day at the sea.

The Church of Ireland cemetery is home to two of my great aunts and one great uncle who all died as young children. My grandfather never spoke of these siblings. I made this discovery from browsing through the church records at the Manse.

One thing I have observed about the Irish, or maybe it is just my family, is even though they are incredibly friendly and hospitable, they are also very private. My grandparents rarely spoke of the "old country." Thus the reason why I so enjoyed my visits with Archie Crozier. Between his yarns about the family scandals and the information I found in the church records, I was able to fit the last piece of the puzzle together.

According to Archie, the reason my grandfather, his brother and his father immigrated to Canada in the late 1920's was to flee from the IRA. They were all part of the "B-Special's," which were a reserve police force, predominantly protestant, who defended Northern Ireland from the IRA terror campaign. Apparently, my great-grandfather was a Magistrate who had prosecuted some members of the IRA. His life was now is danger. So, Canada was the safe haven!! Scandalous!

I loved this link to my lineage. Archie was quite the character. Maybe you can catch a glimpse of his "badness" from my pictures!! He lived his 96 years well! I will miss him. I am grateful I had the opportunity to visit him last summer. I will cherish those moments.

Archie and I in his kitchen - July 2008! This is the same farm across the road from my grandfather's home farm! It hasn't really changed either! You can even see the Canadian tray I brought him sitting on his table!



Here's to dancing skeletons!!

Fundamentals and Festivities to Help One Survive Winter in Canada

“Nature has no mercy at all. Nature says, 'I'm going to snow. If you have on a bikini and no snowshoes, that's tough. I am going to snow anyway.'”

Maya Angelou

Enchanting Chairs in the Garden

February 2009-Grimsby, ON
Eating Out with Friends
January 2009 -Oshawa,ON


Stocking the Ailment Aids in the Medicine Cabinet for those nasty colds, sinus infections, flu, et. al.

Can't live without my Vicks! Toronto, ON-February 2009

Theme Parties
Oshawa, ON - February 2009
Christa's 70's theme 40th Birthday


Antique Hunting


Testing to see if the antiques actually work like the sign says

Doesn't appear to work!
Grimsby, ON - February 2009

Enjoying the Outdoors

Ice Skating
Oshawa ON - December 2008

Playing and Watching Hockey

Oshawa, ON - December 2008

Meandering through Kensington Market

Toronto, ON -January 2008

Licking Icicles in Yorkville

Toronto, ON - January 2009

Leg Warmers- they're back!

Pickering, ON - February 2009

Creative Hairstyles

Girl with the Leg Warmers

Finally...what would winter be without Tim Hortons!

For more winter inspired themes, pop on over to Carmi's blog here.

Embracing Winter, although I am dreaming of Spring!

? or Bust

Antique Market, Grimsby, ON February, 2009

"Busted" Well Pump.

The theme of the week, "Busted," over at Thematic Photographic is a fitting description of my internet date on Sunday afternoon. I wish I had a more exciting ending to the story for you my faithful bloggy friends. One never knows how these things will turn out.

First impressions were good. We started off on a "good foot." (No pun intended. What am I thinking, of course I intended it!) Mr. Foot Doctor did have good manners. He actually paid for my coffee, which broke a blind date record. You see on most of the maiden blind dates I have been on, I end up paying for my own coffee. Maybe I'm old fashioned but in my opinion the guy should be paying for the coffee! But, I digress.

I was craving a Grande Gingersnap Soy Latte, but had second thoughts when my date just ordered a Tall Dark Roast, double cream. I didn't want to seem overindulgent since he was paying. He did however make a grande point about Dark Roast having less caffeine. Strike 1. He would be shocked at the exorbitant amount of caffeine I guzzle every morning.

Our conversation was auspicious until ... we got talking about death and burial options. Yup on a first date. I am comfortable with this topic. In fact, I shared with Mr. Foot Doctor about my dad wanting to be cremated and sprinkled over the ocean off the coast of Newfoundland. I was a little put off when, with a shocked look on his face, he told me cremation was "pagan." Clearly in an abhorred state, he proceeded to correct my apparent errant theology. Strike 2. He wouldn't have taken too kindly with knowing I want the same burial as my father. I think he would have gone over the top if I told him about wanting all the attendees at my funeral to chew a piece of Dubble Bubble gum and in unision blow a bubble in my honour!!! I'm serious. It's in my will:)

Strike 3. He cried. "Choked up" is a more fitting term. Be clear, I have no problem with guys crying. I love it, but it was just a little awkward on a first COFFEE date. To be fair, his mom just died a few months ago. Really I am not heartless. I just thought it was awkward.

Strike 4. Mr Foot Doctor, with a professional Practice, interacting with patients all day, did not once ask me a question in the two hours we were together. I 'm not sure if that is a normal "guy" thing or not. The conversation flowed because I am good at that sort of thing. AND I didn't talk too much! For those of you that know me in real life, you may be surprised. But it is true!

Strike ? Not that I'm keeping score or anything, but maybe if we had gone bowling we would have not struck out!

Some of my reasoning may sound picky to some of you, nevertheless, I am an intuitive person. I trust my gut. For me, the underlying tone from our conversation leads me to believe there are some issues that would matter in the long run. He is a nice looking guy. He has a good job. He is health conscious - participates in iron man competitions. Still there was no chemistry - and I don't just mean physical -no conversational chemistry either. I have to be true to myself and go with my gut.

As I was leaving Starbucks, I really didn't think this guy was into me either, but apparently I was wrong. When I arrived home, there was an email waiting for me. I think I will post it because it gives a little taste of how our conversation went throughout the date. I must explain that his final comments came from out of the blue ( and I don't necessarily agree and I don't think I am "conservative!"). Here is the email:

Hi Karyne,

I'm glad we were able to meet this afternoon. You're much more prettier than your pics on your profile. If I was you I would upload recent pics of yourself.... not for me, but if I'm not your type of man then some other man might find you... again in life you never know what will be. I hope you enjoyed the concert this evening. I guess that we are on the same page... I'm a conservative Christian and had the feeling that you were too. If you'd like to go out for dinner or see a movie next weekend, email me at your convenience. Or if you'd like me to join you for church next Sunday I'd like to do that too... only if it's okay with you. If I'm not your type of guy not a problem with me... I know we'll both keep searching. These days we try to be politically correct along with other solicietal norms, which I understand and don't agree with all of it. I know that gay marriage is a sin (you can't sugarcoat it) and don't like the liberal way that Canada has gone during the past 2 decades. I also don't like how some of the Christian churches have "an anything goes" approach to get more people attending church, eg the United Church. A lot of conservative Christians left that church and I don't think that it was a good policy shift for the United Church, because it wasn't based on the Biblical teaching. Take care and God bless,

Unfortunately, I have to render this date "busted." Will I try internet dating again? Mmmm. Not sure.
BTW...He never did ask to examine my feet. Phew!

Chapters/Starbucks, Oshawa, ON, February 24, 2009

"Busted" in the Relationship section of Chapters!

I found this lady tonight as I was trying to look for a book my bloggy friend recommended. I thought it was ironic. This lady was so focused on the relationship book she was reading that she didn't even notice I was fumbling to take her photo ,all the while trying to be inconspicuous. Thus the reason for the blurred photo.

confessions of an internet date-er

"If I am not worth the wooing, I am surely not worth the winning"

(Henry Wadsworth Longfellow)

I haven’t been diligent in keeping you, my faithful readers, informed of the other part of my single life - dating. Why? No particular reason apart from it being non –existent! Although I must admit I haven’t been actively pursuing anything even though inwardly it is a desire of mine. Where does one start when you are 40-ish? It is tougher at this stage in life to find appropriate venues where you can meet up with single men.

Evidently my parents have taken it upon themselves to search out one such venue. About a year ago, they called to inform me they read an ad in the local paper about a singles event in my area. My mom said to me, “darling, I have this mother’s intuition that you should attend this event.” Why not? I’d give it a try. After all, has it not been said we should always always listen to our mothers?

Even though I am a gregarious person, I was nervous as I entered the building that cold winter’s night. Having never been to a singles event, I had no idea what to expect. I did know I would enjoy the country line dancing the ad promised. As the room filled with eager participants, I noticed the absence of one gender. Let’s just say the odds were not in my favour! In fact, out of the 40 people in attendance, 5 were male. Two of those males were over the age of 80, and two were special needs. (Seriously. I am not exaggerating for the purpose of creative license!) Like I said, the odds were not in my favour. However, I did make the best of the situation and thoroughly enjoyed my evening of line dancing! Needless to say, I will never darken the door of one of these local single events again. Nor will I listen to my mother’s intuitive side again!

“What about internet dating?” a friend quipped. Hesitantly and cautiously I created a profile on this free “Christian” internet dating site. Over the last couple of years I dabbled here and there with not much success. I seem to attract the strange ones and end up in interesting situations. I will have to share another time about my “date” with this guy from Boston, Massachusetts. We met half way in Montreal, Quebec, both with friends in tow. He told me he was a scientist for Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. I was thrilled at the prospect of potentially getting free ice cream for life! I had visions of helping him create new flavours. Apparently, he lied about his profession. In actuality he was a receptionist - for another dairy company that didn’t even make ice cream. Goodbye "Chunky Monkey."

I was a tad bit disillusioned with internet dating vowing never to try it again. Well...

never say never…

The other day I “bit the bullet” and went back on this Christian internet dating site. I simplified my profile:

SWF looking for SWM who breathes.

A chiropodist responded. Yes, I did have to google “chiropodist” to make sure I knew it was a foot doctor I would be meeting for coffee on Sunday afternoon at Starbucks/Chapters rather than a vertebral subluxation specialist! We have barely exchanged two words so I have no idea how this will turn out. I am actually nervous. I wonder if he will want to examine my feet. Do you think he will mind that I have hammer toes, corns and chipped nail polish? Wish me luck. Any advice is always welcome!

Bag Lady

"...You just call out my name
And you know where ever I am

I'll come running

To see you again.

Winter, spring, summer, or fall

All you have to do is call

And I'll be there, yeah, yeah, yeah

You've got a friend..."

(James Taylor)

I received this delightful gift from one of my "sista's"- my kindred spirit friend- at the weekend. How ingenius. Each tea bag is tagged with insightful and humourous quotes, all packaged in the cutest tin ever! If you want to see more themed teas, check them out here.

Resolved

Jesus says, “A thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy. I come so you can have real and eternal life, more and better life than you ever dreamed of.” (John 10:10, The Message)

I had to make the call, but not to the source of my temptation. Rather to the source of unconditional friendship. My mind wrestled with this decision. In one corner, Truth, in the other, Tempter. Tantalizing, tormenting, teasing. Luring me. Strength eluded me. But, GRACE found me. She held on tight, intertwining her mercy around the core of my soul.

Never before have I had a married man pursue me. And never before have I been tempted to pursue a married man.

I was in a vulnerable state when this man and I crossed paths. I had encountered, once again, piercing words of discouragement from people whom I believe meant well.
“What is wrong with you, why aren’t you married? You are too picky. Just be content then you will meet someone, etc.” Utterances that imply there is a formula for finding love and companionship. Utterances that imply rejection and failure.

The great tempter, Satan, loves to use these oral missives to his advantage. I began to believe these lies. “I must be a horrible person for no guy to want me. There must be something horribly wrong with me. I must be ugly. I must be overly picky. I am such a failure, etc.” Highly exposed, I latched onto every flirtatious, acclamatory remark from the mouth of this married man. The chemistry was certain. It felt amazing. I won’t deny. The battle in my mind continued to rage. Do I cross the line?

One afternoon while driving home from work, my weak cries of help to God were heard. Suddenly I had this overwhelming burden to call my best friend and recount my predicament. (I hadn't spoken to anyone about this yet) My precious, ever so wise, kindred spirit brought clarity and not judgment to my plight. It was a “God-thing.” That very morning, my beautiful “sista” was reading in Matthew 4 where Jesus was being tempted by Satan. At one point Jesus said, “Beat it Satan!” I love how The Message translates this verse. Over the phone, I bellowed, “Beat it Satan” too. I knew once I vocalized the situation the battle would be over. I knew the Truth. I knew it was wrong. I knew I could not cross that line. Yet somehow I was blindsided.

However, the GREAT news is ONLY because of God’s grace, mercy, strength, wisdom and protection, did I make the right choice. I am amazed. I am thankful. I am free. I am celebrating what God has done for me!

My pastor spoke on this John 10:10 passage yesterday, so I was reminded of this God story. I felt impressed to share it here on my blog. I’m not sure why, but my hope is that it can encourage the person that needs to hear it today.

“God is my shield. Lord please accept my willing offerings of praise and teach me your judgments. My life is constantly in danger yet I do not forget your instruction. The wicked have set a trap for me, but I have not wandered from your precepts. I have your degrees as a heritage forever; indeed, they are the joy of my heart. I am resolved to obey your statutes to the very end.” (Psalm 119:108-112, The Message)

Be Mine

Eagerly anticipating valentine celebrations and a ultra long weekend, the student body was a wee bit overstimulated on Thursday! I had two memorable encounters that afternoon with a couple of my students who have autism.

The first involved this boy:

I must refresh your memory. This is the boy who used to address me as, "F*#^~ing Kaaawwin. You idiot," all the time! He is a changed man this year! So, I was invited to join his class valentine party. As I was standing by the table of valentine goodies, I overheard "P" say, " Oh my ovaries!" Trying not to react with laughter, I decided to go sit beside "P." He was eagerly awaiting to be excused so he could go on the computer. Here is our delightful dialogue:

Me: I love your ring "P"

"P": Thank you Kaawwin.

**He then reaches toward a cupcake on the table, grabs the ring off the top and proceeds to put it on my finger, icing and all!**

"P": It says, 'I love you.'

Me: Why thank you "P." I love it.

I put my arm around "P's" shoulder, leaned in and whispered in his ear,

Me: I want to tell you a secret, you are one of my favourite students.

Without missing a beat, "P" puts his arm around my shoulder, leans in and whispers in my ear,

"P": I want to tell YOU a secret, can I go on the computer now.

Me: Nice try "P," but no!

I love this boy. Will you be mine?!

Here is the infamous ring, minus the icing:

My next encounter that afternoon involved this boy:
He is the one with an incredible vocabulary. In fact, one day I walked into his classroom and he said to me, "Miss W you look dazzling today!" I love this boy too. Will you be mine?!

Every afternoon I am on duty for recess. On this said afternoon, it was complete madness on the playground. We had been experiencing a couple consecutive days of rain, so the students had been indoors for their recesses. Not a good thing!

Suddenly, there appeared two panicked students by my side telling me "Q" was stuck in the mud. I rolled my eyes and told them I would investigate. I was skeptical that "Q" was actually stuck in the mud. However, I was completely wrong. "Q" was COMPLETELY stuck in the mud. It took the help of two students along with myself to pry "Q" out of the mud. The whole time, my sweet "Q" was taking it all in stride including sporting a gargantuan smile! He was wearing a winter toque that said, "Life is Good." How appropriate. Apparently after recess when "Q" got back into class he told his teacher emphatically, "Miss W rescued me today!"

Life is Good!

The day continued to be delightful. I was showered with valentines and chocolate goodies from my students and co-workers. Those unexpected moments that afternoon made it one of the best valentines day ever.

Happy Valentine's Day my bloggy friends! Will you be mine?!

My weekend in pictures

"The spirit of adventure is all about staying on the lookout-keeping our eyes and our hearts open and participating fully in the moment we've been given as a pure gift."

(Luci Swindoll, I Married Adventure)

I had a fabulous weekend, full of adventures! I soooo needed the change in scenery! I captured my adventures in pictures however there were too many to choose from to post here on my blog, so please go here (*update* apparently you now can't view them directly so click on this link. Then click on where it says "view Karyne's Gallery", then click on th pics that say "trip to Grimsby/Niagara Falls ) to see my weekend!

Heirlooms

February 2009 - My 100 year old family heirloom is back home again! She is alive singing out her songs!

"Friends know the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words!" (unknown)

"Make new friends but keep the old, some are silver and the others gold." ( Pioneer Girls song)

I have been blessed with an amazing motley circle of friends over the course of my life. They have helped mold me into who I am today. I am deeply grateful. This weekend I am off to visit "new" friends near Niagara Falls. I am so looking forward to celebrating life with these friends! I am also in desperate need of a relaxing get-away- a distraction from this crazy, frigid winter we are experiencing! I will be offline and that will be hard. I never imagined I would be addicted to my blogosphere life! So, see you next week. Have a blissful weekend! Celebrate your friends! Your Heirlooms!

( I have a blog started about last weekend but it will have to be put on hold!)

One final story before I sign off. I haven't shared any student "yarns" lately, but thought this comment today from one of my grade 1 (P2 for my British bloggy friends!) students was blog worthy!

Out of the blue, and not related to what we were working on, this little girl said to me:

"S": Miss Whalen, my grandma HAS fake teeth.

ME: Oh really. My dad has some fake teeth too. Do you live with your grandma?

"S": Oh no Miss Whalen, my grandma lives in the sky now!