A Mens' Group

Monday, Nov. 19, Wednesday, Nov. 21 cloudy, warm + 6, some showers but colder weather predicted for the end of the week with snow
Had my massage with Odette this morning.
We had a great conversation about being in the present and achieving a state of relaxation that would be good for the body and soul.
She has a male friend who is having a difficult time dealing with his lack of control in life. The harder he tries to control everything; the less effect he seems to have on the people and events in his life. It is beginning to have a negative affect on their relationship. She is also concerned about his mental and physical health. She asked me to recommend a good doctor; which would be Dr. Joe. She will suggest that he meet with Dr. Joe and see how they get together. He would benefit from attending the group but he must be referred by Dr. Joe.
Lunch with mother was a relaxing affair. She had been out with Cheryl and Daryl to her home town to visit with family. She came away with a good impression pf Daryl although she is still having a difficult time with Cheryl's instability. Mother’s grandson, Kurt, is looking better with the home cooking and attention he is getting from his new girlfriend. Kurt’s brother Marlon, traded in his truck from last year for a new unit.
Traffic has been slow but the written deals are quite successful and lucrative.
Terry and Alice signed. John is meeting with Don this weekend. The preliminary blue prints are back for the client from out of town, although the house is difficult to fit on the lot they want. We will rework the house layout and John will make the house fit to their satisfaction. The Monday evening meeting went well with Cliff and his parents. They really like us as a company and were impressed by the owners of the home I showed. The home owners said we did a great job. Cliff and his parents are coming in on Sunday to do some more work on the house design and pricing. Cliff is to send me an outline of a home he likes.
Warren has been working in the area then went out of town for a couple of days but will be back in time for the dinner meeting with Dr. Joe on Thursday.
Jim, a former participant of the mens’ group, said he was coming, when I informed him of the dinner.
The weather was too cold and rainy on Tuesday to go flying so it was postponed to this Friday or next week.
I talked to Cory and Dana over the last couple of days. They are both doing fine with Cory and Gillian getting along better. Cory gave me a Christmas list of items he wants for himself. The palm pilot is what I should get him because it makes the most sense.
I have decided to get a new laptop that includes a DVD player and connection to my TV so I will not have to get a separate DVD unit for my apartment. I can also watch the movies at the Showhome and in my bedroom if I wish. I am looking at the new Compaq 705 series that are just out from Staples.
I will have to get a GST number at the end of the month because of my income.
Susan said that the offer made by Holly and Jason is about 90% certain to be accepted for the house they want in Sherwood Park. It is available for Feb.1. This is a great relief to Susan. It is a livable period of time for them to exist together. Holly and Jason will feel a lot better having their own place to spread out in. Good for them.
Alice is excited about the house they have purchased and thanked me for the help that I gave them in obtaining it. They will move in June 1/02.
Now if Melvina will come in to buy this showhome for possession in the future I would feel good about the home going to a great person who would really love it.

Thursday, Nov. 22, Sunday, Nov. 25, cloudy, snowing, -11
The last few days have heralded the beginning of winter. We have had fog, clouds and snow over the last short while. The weather has turned colder with the ground now covered with three or four inches of snow. This will stay now till spring.
Driving has become a competition for some people.
The group dinner with Dr. Joe was a fine gathering.
Jim showed up later in the evening after a meeting uptown. Everyone else arrived on time, except for Jeff who is in Toronto this week. Dr. Joe shared some personal information with us since we are no longer patients of his. He is doing fine passing along some new experiences about making his life with a special woman. This is an exciting event in his life. We all shared some information of our lives with Dr. Joe to let him know where we were at this time. The time went quickly with most of the group leaving around eight in the evening.
Jim stayed and asked that I stay for a little discussion. We talked; or rather he did, about his new direction in life. He is participating in non-partisan politics with action groups that are addressing and voicing concerns about various issues. He is still unsettled in his personal life. He was trying to get to know the waitress while he was chatting with me and managed to ignore both of us. He insisted in talking over the answers that she was giving him. He has a message to get out and is not able to communicate and listen to both sides of the discussion. He would like to go flying with me if I am comfortable with him and also would be available to play squash if Warren was not around. He left his job and is now working and volunteering for a church group and some francophone groups. He sold his home and is living with his mother at Alberta Beach while he looks for some stability. I will give him a call if I am able to get some flying in soon.
The weather has prevented Christine and me from getting off the ground for some flying.
Warren and I played some squash on Saturday, with both of us winning the same number of games. It was nice to get back playing. He is very happy with the probability of the Ottawa group buying the program he is working on. This one sale would set him up as a credible force in the industry, a sizable financial reward and a great reputation. The other towns and municipalities that could use such a program would look at him with greater confidence. He has a time frame of about 2 years before another major company will create a program similar to his and become his competition. He is aware of this but not overly concerned.
Did some personal shopping on Friday at the Colony and purchased a leather flight jacket for myself. I am very pleased with the purchase, although I took Susan to Danier's to look at the leather jackets in the store but did not find one that was what desirable. The price was less but so was the quality. We looked at the winter jackets at The Edmonton Co-op but none were suited to what I wanted.
We had an excellent meal at Sceppa's at the end of the evening. She spent the day shopping with Maxine, her dad and Mathew. Holly and Jason are still excited about the confirmation of the home they purchased in Sherwood Park with possession in Feb. Everyone including Luke is very pleased with the evolution of events.
John met with a client on Saturday, although I do not know the results of what they discussed. The paper that was left in the waste basket suggests that they progressed on the design for the new home. Some clients are to meet with John at the Sherwood Park Showhome today to look at the plan layout for the lot in Fort. Sask. It is a good location and we can adjust it a little more if we get some relief from the people in planning.
The payment for Alice and Terry will be available this week for the end of the month.
Cantel is quite confused about where I live at the moment and have not sent out a bill yet, so I will address the situation by calling them again on Monday and getting their attention to the problem.
Christmas arrives in a month.

Monday, Nov. 26, Sat. Dec. 1, cold and sunny- snow all last week with temperatures in the -10's
The week has been quiet and gray with large soft snow flakes coming down everyday. Winter has arrived with the snow fall this week greater than all the snow we had last year.
The economy will start to boom again. The repair shops, tire shops, clothing shops and all the outdoor recreation stores will be doing a great business.
The oil industry will be able to move in the North Country and create work for the crews and all the back up suppliers.
Dana called on Tuesday a little down, and wanting to talk. We chatted for a while but he did not ask for money and I did not offer. He is doing a little work but is short for his rent. He will ask his mom or arrange for another short term loan. We discussed some Xmas presents- he wants the Hollywood special effects book that I was able to order at Chapters. It will come in before Xmas I hope. I managed to contact Cory on Friday night and get some background about what is going on. He is getting his EI finally, and doing some work for Greg. He has found a place near Dana's and would like to move in as soon as possible but he may wait to see if Dana is working in Regina in January. He is in a good mood and suggested a book on cooking with peppers and other hot and spicy foods that I might get him. Along with the Palm pilots for Xmas they should be happy with their presents. We discussed the arrangements of getting to Edmonton and back to Regina by bus or my flying them on the 27/28 of Dec.
I am having a hard time not giving in to Dana's need for money for his rent. One side of me says he has to learn to be more flexible and get other jobs while he waits for the film industry to start in a large way again. The other side says that the industry will start soon and this is just a short term loan. I have loaned him some money and I know he will pay it back but when is it enough. Linda should be able to assist him on this short term need.
I had my car serviced for the timing belt, water pump and the door locks. All is well except for the passenger side door lock stopped working a couple of days after I took the car home.
My landlady is looking after the lack of heat in my apartment and others.
Susan and I are going to The Christmas Carol play at the Citadel tonight. Both Warren and Peter have attended saying the performance was excellent.
Warren was not at the group meeting on Thursday. The snow was too great and conditions kept him at home. Jim was not present but that is not a surprise. We ended up in the family room of the Showhome with the fireplace going.
Everett shared with us the fact that he is having less control on his movements than he had in spring. His little boy is getting in the way of his everyday activities. Everett said he was telling his little boy to shut up and be quiet and not bother him. We suggested that he change his tactics, address some of the concerns that his inner child has, take him out for an ice cream or something and let his fears and concerns surface, deal with them and things will get better.
Peter is relaxed and ready for his trip south with his wife and child. He will be back in Feb.
Work is going very well for me. The serious buyers are coming in and arranging for homes to be built. I should have a total of 7 or 8 deals by the end of Dec. I will have to see whether they all come together this year or I can conclude some of them in 02. Whatever the clients want to do is OK with me.
Getting a GST number will depend on whether I get paid this year or next.
I will let it unfold as it wants to.

Sunday, Dec. 9- sunny, clear and warm --3
The week has gone by quickly.
Susan had her operation on her toe to remove a small tumor using some bone from her hip to fill in the hole. She is at home, feeling better as the days pass. She has stopped using her crutches and now is hobbling around the house, wrapping Christmas presents.
The home is full of people coming and going. Holly has two jobs, as well as Luke. They are both working at the Bay during the Christmas season along with some work at Pier I for Holly. Jason has settled into his work with the RCMP unit in Sherwood Park. The house purchase is moving along well and they will move in late Feb. Holly is expecting another child in about 8 months. Everyone is happy and quite content with the developments. Mathew is growing up a very contented young chap.
Peter is off on his holiday for two months with his family. Warren talked to him before he left and all seems quite calm.
Fred and Sue were to come over to visit with Susan and me but her surgery has postponed the visit.
Dana and I had a talk about his responsibilities in obtaining work if he is not getting any film work. He will do what is necessary I expect. Cory and Dana are both coming down for Christmas. The final arrangements have not been made yet.
I did my first flight in the Pipe with Christine last week. We have to finish off the flight on Monday, weather permitting. I just have to do a stall, steep turn and a forced approach to get my check out papers. We are to do dome landings in the new 72 next Friday and then some night flights to get my night rating up to par.
I want to get familiar with the GPS and other instruments in the 72 so I can be confident with them if I go to Regina to get the boys. I have the plane booked for the 27/28. Weather permitting I will fly to Regina.
Mother wants some pictures of the boys and I around the plane whether we fly or not.
Derek and I tried to get a lunch date in last week but were unable to do so.
The deal I have been waiting for came together.

Tuesday, Dec 11, cloudy -8 winter day, some snow.
Christine and I went out on Monday and completed the requirements for the check out on the Piper. It was cloudy and snow was in the forecast but we went up anyway. The plane flew like a dream. The stall was not even noticeable, the steep turn was up and down but the forced landing was great. The final landing at the airport was perfect except I still missed the center line by ten feet. I will have to work on that. This may be the plane to take on long trips if I had a hand held GPS. We are to go up in the new 72 on Friday in the morning to do a check out on it and get used to the toys on the plane. In the evening I am to do the night landings to retain my rating, but we may have to do it in the other 72.
I will see.
Dana called last night; he has been working as a bouncer for the last few days and is getting some money for it. Our discussion has had a little effect on him, he sounds better and feels better, he said. He might have some consulting work in Regina when he is down for the holidays. I am trying to line up an interview in Edmonton with Iatse for him. They said to drop in and chat with them. Dana said that he has found good homes for two of his kittens. Cory called last night and left a message but I was out at the moment. I will try to call him later tonight. I was able to pick up two Palm Pilots for their Christmas gifts. I played with one; it is a neat toy and unit.
Perhaps I can get myself one in the future.
Darren had his lot sold out from under him by Canyon Springs, he was some mad. The focus was taken off the price and put on the land issue. He is OK with the lot we have and the price difference if Melcor waves the interest accrued on the land. Darren gave us the house plan back so we could do a house plot to make sure the house fit. I was able to transfer the Sch. B info onto his disc and deliver it to Christine, his fiancée who works next door. The company she works for is able to provide the same Compaq laptops that I was looking for with a better price in January. I will have to check it out then.
Cliff did not show up with the house plan for the open staircase but this is not unusual.

Sunday, Dec 16, sunny, warm +2
The balance of the week was snowy, with winds on Friday.
I was unable to make the flights on Friday on the new 72 and the night flying. Susan is doing well with her foot operation. She had two pins inserted into her foot to help healing of the bone. She is dealing well with it. Maxine went to Regina so Susan will be staying at her place for a couple of days so Jason’s dog will not be able to bump into her foot so much.
With the operation on her left foot she is still able to drive herself around and get out of the house. She does not have to use the crutches that were giving her so much trouble. The family is getting alone well and Christmas plans are moving ahead with the minimum amount of fuss.
Dana has flown to Regina, with Cory to follow this week. I have not talked to either although Cory has left messages to say that all is well. I was informed that he was doing a little work with Jason on Friday on a film.
I got most of my shopping done except for some wine for Susan’s in laws, Bob and Luxy.
I decided to change planes for my flight to Regina because all the stars would have to line up perfectly for me to be able to fly and take the new 72. The plane does not come back till the afternoon before. I still have not been checked out on it and there is only a small chance that I will be able to do so. If the weather is bad or the return is late or if there is a snag, I will not be able to take the plane even if the weather is good. With the Piper, I am checked out already, the plane is cheaper, it has auto pilot (I have to figure out yet) . A basic GPS, I may have to purchase a new mobile unit. I will just have to get my night rating up to date and I will do that with Christine.
Darren and Christine came in today to sign the deal for their new home.
Cliff and his mom are coming in later on Sunday to finalize the paperwork on their home.
Fred has been spending some time at home with Susan and Samantha because work is slow. He is enjoying his time at home.

Monday, Dec 17/02, Dec. 30/01 Sunday, cold -14, sunny with ice crystals
I spent a couple of hours on Sunday and Saturday at the show home to keep the doors open.
Some traffic from people who are just looking around. The week up to Christmas was slow with only light traffic. The days were cloudy and cold. The weather did not allow me to fly out to Regina to get the boys. They came in on the bus on Friday. They enjoyed the trip and made a few new friends on the bus. We had a quick supper; Dana had arranged to see some friends and spend the night.
Cory came home with me and we chatted and caught up on things.
I played squash on Saturday morning and went to work. I booked off early because of no traffic.
Dana came over with Karen, he helped her move some stuff to her office, we all had a pizza and then the boys and I went to see Lord of the Rings at the theatre in the evening. Karen went home.
Sunday morning we had brunch with Nanny and then Cory was dropped off to see his friend Mark. Mom and Dana went to WEM. Dana was to hook up with Karen again. Cory was going over to a former co worker place for supper. I will go to Susan's for coffee later.
Christmas was good.
I received a winter coat from Susan and some books; not the car starter I thought I would be getting. Christmas was a lot of eating, some drinking and a good deal of discussion.
Luke was totally in love with Amanda, he spent his whole time thinking of her. Good stuff for him.
Susan took them to the plane for their ocean cruise that he won. Susan has been taking time for herself by staying at Maxine's home since she is gone to Winnipeg for a couple of weeks. Her foot is getting better but she is getting tired of the immobility of her foot. She is going to the doctor next week, to get the pins taken out of her foot. Matthew is doing well, does not have the terrible two's syndrome and is enjoying the love and attention of everyone around. Jason has settled into his new job well, with Holley working at two jobs as long as she can.
Fred and Susan have settled into a routine with Kelsey. Samantha is a nice baby at ten months. Fred is very quiet holding onto his strong beliefs about what is right and wrong. Kelsey is going to school next year and is working as much as she can.
Cory is excited about moving into his new apartment when he gets back. Dana is resolved to get more work and have a great year. They both have a good outlook on what is to come about. They are both very funny and witty young men.
Had a long talk with Gillian during Christmas and helped her in a direction regarding Jason. She is very frustrated with what she sees he is doing to himself and how he is treating her. It will take a long time for her to get him to treat her differently. She will complicate matters with her insecurities. Oh well.
Warren and I are playing squash as much as we can during the holidays to try and retain some sort of activity so I can continue to eat well and enjoy the chocolates that I received from Susan and family.
I will be able to invoice for the jobs that are closing in January to apply to the bills that are coming in.
The New Year will be great with the selling easier and more consistent.
I will be able to apply myself to more than just work.

Sunday, Oct. 14, Tuesday, Oct. 15 +12, Clear with light winds, and sunny, great autumn day
Traffic was brisk on Sunday. The strong wind and cold temperatures allowed people to do things indoor instead of their normal autumn tasks.
Spent the evening watching some playoff baseball.
Dana called to say that his cat had three kittens in his apartment and all involved were doing well. He will take care of them until he can give them away. He is doing well after working a couple days over the last few weeks.
Cory was busy but still managed to call. He suggested he may be going down to Atlanta to help set up the computers that Greg has purchased recently. He may stay longer for a visit if he can. Both are sounding well and getting along with life. Linda, their mother, may fly them down for Christmas with Dana staying a little longer to try and get some work while he is down there.
Jason, Susan’s son in law, has come down to Edmonton for a funeral in Sask. at the end of the week. He has sold the home in Fort St. John. He and Holly have looked at some more Showhome and are comfortable with building something. Susan has been getting along well with Holly and has started to work the afternoon shift at Nait for the week.
Played squash with Warren on Monday and won the games fairly easily. He was off a little or I was on a little bit. Who knows what happens when the mind is not present. He said that Peter was feeling a little left out because Warren had not called him when he had returned from Ottawa. I called and talked with Dr. Joe and have set up a dinner meeting with the all of us on Nov. 22 a Thursday. Dr. Tom said that he was setting up a practice in Canmore and will be working in the area several weeks of each month.
The weekend was a good one with Susan coming over with a coffee on Friday evening. We went out for Greek food on Saturday. Sunday she spent the day searching for rocks with Anne west of the city.
I was able to give her the space and acknowledge that we both knew what we were doing and it was not a threat to her or me. We meet for coffee on Tuesday morning and a chat about Gail, her friend and the weight that Gail enjoys carrying around.
The month is coming along nicely with only a few down times where I question the slowness and lack of excitement that is occurring in my life. I know that it is only the “October energies” that surround me to cause these feelings. Quietness is not a threat to my existence I tell myself. The inquiries and steps that I am taking are accomplishing the correct events that I am sure will be beneficial to my well being.
I purchased some very fine sheets for the bed in my apartment with only a twinge of hesitancy about the money that I was spending on myself.

Wed. Oct 17, clear but windy, +11
Went for my monthly massage with Odette which was a great experience as always. She spends a little more time when she does a morning massage than a late afternoon because she is a lot fresher.
I drove out to Spruce Grove to look at a lot that the woman from out of town said she wanted to build her home on. I talked to John and he said that he would get me the price and size information that I required.
Cory called last night, very frustrated with Gillian's attitude toward his belief's and work ethics. I listened to him and let him vent. He will do something to bring this to an end. I told him whatever he did it would not change my attitude towards him. He will have to do what he thinks is necessary, even if it is to come home to Edmonton or go to Regina. He would have a great deal more fun with his biking in the mountains than he is having in Toronto. The female situation would be different out here but he will make do. Dana will let him stay at his place if he is still around in January when Dana stays in Regina. Cory will be going down to Atlanta for a while at the end of the month, which will remove him from the problem that is creating itself.
Gillian probably has no knowledge of all the energy that she has at the moment. I won't be able to talk with her for a while because of the focus she has on her needs to change people and things. Simon and Kathi are staying at arm's length and are busy at work.
Cory said that he will be collecting EI for 20 weeks. I made him say that I was correct in stating that he would qualify. I had to bug him a little bit about him saying that it would be impossible for him to collect because he was fired. Maybe Dad does know something. I am keeping it at arms length and I am sure that they, Cory, Gillian and Dana will work out their relationship to the best of their abilities. The boys will not associate with her anymore than they have to. Cory will move out and use this past year as a learning experience.
She will ask me but will not understand what is happening even after I explain it to her. She cannot comprehend that there is anyway to live except the way she sees to live. Her statements about her sons, especially Jason and all the people who are against him and what he does, are a little frightening. To her, her boy can do no wrong, she is certain. He is the major creator of his problems and takes no blame or responsibility for his actions. He is very adept at getting Gillian to handle and take the point on any problems he is creating. She will not stop and see what he is doing and he will not do anything to change the dance they are in. He is old enough to know better but old enough to know how to manipulate her. Simon, being married to a strong willed woman, is more insulated now. He is less selfish and will not impose himself on Gillian. Gillian's friends will not take the time to try and change her because they do not have the time or the energy to do so. They have their lives to live and can step away far enough so they do not get frustrated.

Thursday, Oct. 18, Sunday, Oct. 21 clear and sunny + 9
Some good traffic on Sunday.
An older couple came in and suggested they are tired of living in Millwoods with the declining neighborhood. They were impressed with the Cascade, took a great deal of information and will talk more about the house, changes, location and their wish list. Good possibility. Called a client and talked briefly with him about the price increases. He said that he and his wife are in the midst of a divorce so things are to be put off for a while. Who knows what can happen.
Spent last night watching the World Series playoffs and some hockey.
Relaxing evening, Susan was off for supper with Gail so they could talk about the problems of their children. The police have charged the woman for running a red light and colliding with Luke’s car. This will be relief for Luke, now her insurance company will pay for the repair of his car. He would be advised to take the money and purchase a new car instead of repairing the unit because of massive body damage. I told Holly to check out the home guide section of the paper to get a better understanding of the hidden costs of building and owning a new home.
Saturday was busy but no good clients for the future. Kimberley and her Darryl did not come in and are not answering their phone. They may be in BC for the funeral.
I moved some money around to get some use of it. That is not a concern at the moment. Warren was not feeling well, so we have not played our regular squash games. He is off to Ottawa on Tuesday. Maybe we will get a game in on Monday night. I have told everyone about the supper we have arranged with Dr. Tom for November.
Lucy called from Vancouver on Sunday. It was a pleasure to hear from her. It has been about three years since we lasted talked. She has changed locations and is now working for a Chrysler dealership in Burnaby. She got married last year to an executive for a cookie company and sounds very happy. She is enjoying golfing and the relationship she is in. Her family is in Edmonton and doing well. I will arrange to see her if she is available for lunch.
Neither Cory nor Lillian has called since last week. It would seem that they have come to consensus with their relationship. Cory may even have found a job or gone to Atlanta for Greg. They will find a way of working out their difficulties.
I expect the kittens Dana is taking care of have opened their eyes and are becoming a bit of a handful. Good for him. The job situation will ease for him soon I expect.
Susan if feeling good about herself and is enjoying having Holly and her family around. Jason is down for a few days to attend a funeral in Sask. He is going back to finish up with the house detail and get ready to move to the city. He will be starting to work for the RCMP in Sherwood Park at the beginning of November.
I have put away the golf clubs for the season. The snow will stay away till the middle of November with the weather remaining mild I predict.
I should get some new tires after the 15 of November.

Monday, Oct. 22, Tuesday Oct 23, snowing for the last two days, cloudy +1 winter time
Winter has come, woke up to white ground and cold stuff falling from the sky.
The start of winter time; it has been snowing since late Sunday night. The weather is to warm up to the plus 10's this weekend but I doubt if the snow will disappear. I expect the traffic to slow down to a crawl this week except for the people who are really interested. I have a few people who are kind of interested but I will wait to see what is going to happen.
Luke found out that the lady has no insurance so will not be able to pay for the repair of his car. He talked to a lawyer who has given him some advice on how to proceed. Jason has gone back to work and will be down at the end of the month he is quite sure. I drove out to see the Ironwood home that Holly is interested in Lakeland Ridge in town. It is not much from the outside but she says the inside is very interesting. I will try to have a look at it and get a plan if I am able.
Mother was quite talkative last night and we will have lunch on Wednesday as usual. She has talked to Grace and will see her when she comes into Edmonton.
Susan talked to Susan and Fred about getting together on Friday evening for supper and cake and it should be arranged for Tony Roma's. They are having a difficult time with Kelsey and her boyfriend. The boyfriend is removing himself from her life and has taken up with another girl. Kelsey is not willing to let him go and is not sure that she should keep Samantha. Fred and Sue are saying that it is up to her, in what she wants to do but will not allow the child to leave their company. Kelsey has some tough decisions to make if Fred and Sue create the situation that will allow her to do that. It is getting tougher as it goes along.
Dana called to say that he still has no steady work but is trying. I suggested that he contact his mother if he is in need of any money for rent. He said that there may be some work in Regina so he will be going down sooner than Christmas and Cory can take over his apartment and the raising of the kittens.
I talked to my client again over the weekend to bring him information about the price increases. He informed me that he was still interested but he and his wife were getting a divorce so the time frame would have to be put off for a while. More important issues have occurred in his life than building a home at the moment. I wished him the best and said that he could contact me when he was ready.
I was browsing through a book on Magic tricks at Chapters yesterday and have found it to be quite interesting. I will follow this up with some more reading and perhaps some practice to learn some of the tricks. Mathew, Susan’s grandson, would appreciate and enjoy them, perhaps. I will look at getting some books on writing so I can get a better idea about putting words together in the form of a story or in a form that is readable. I anticipated flying this week but the snow and clouds have put a stop to that idea for a while. The weather will clear and I will make a point of getting up by myself and then getting together with Christine to do some night flying. It certainly is nice to have covered parking with this snow that is coming down and the cold temperatures that are expected during the weather. The car will appreciate the easy starting in the mornings and the battery will perhaps last some extra time. I know that it was having a hard time on some of the cold winter mornings when it was parked outside last year. I should get some new tires but I expect that the tire places are very busy during these days of snow and bad driving conditions.
Life is very good at the moment and I expect it to stay good and get even better. I am not anxious about the sales not coming quickly. My debts are becoming less as the months go by. The cash required to live will be that much less, so I can last another 5 months before I have to sell a house. Dana will start working full time before the New Year and will start paying me back some of the money he owes me. Even if he does not have much cash at least he will not need my help. The deal with Cam should be coming together, although I have not been able to get hold of John to find out more about it.
Things are good.

Wednesday, Oct. 24, Thursday, Oct. 25 sunny, clear +4
Well, today is my birthday, 53 years old. My, what a great time we have had. I have put another year together in the grandest of fashions. No regrets or rather only a few and those are of very little importance, except as marker points in the passage of time knowledge and experience. I have not flown enough but that has been my choice in terms of money and time. That will be rectified over the next few months, with the winter air and calm that will occur with the cooling of the temperatures. The coolness will make for great daytime and night time flying. Christine will help me with getting checked out in the new 172 and help me revisit the night time flying.
The past two days have been very quiet as far as showhome traffic is concerned. I spent some time finding the lot information for the realtor, Nola, and the information that I can find for Holly and Jason. We, Susan, Holly and Mathew will drive out to Leduc to see the Richmond show home on Friday to get a better sense of what Holly desires.
Hector and Peter showed up for the group meeting. Warren is in Ottawa and Everett is not calling to say whether he was coming.
Hector filled us in on his dinner date on Saturday last. The evening was just ok but he was put off by the woman indecision and lack of energy. She was acceptable in the looks department but he was uncomfortable that she could not make up her mind easily and was not a robust person. Half way through the dinner she commented that she was sure that they had no future because so many things were incompatible between them. It relieved Hector from making the same comment as he felt the same way. They spent a span of 2 1/2 hours at dinner than went for a walk until it was time to take her home. He is going to send her an e-mail that it was nice but there is no future in spending any more time together. The lady that was running the dating service, he paid for, called him to pass on another name for him to call and chat with. He was going to do so, in a short span of time.
Peter was ok with his life except for some information and request for payment from the car rental company in Winnipeg that was requesting money for extra gas and a repair for the damage on the van he rented. He was some upset and informed them that he had filled the tank before he dropped off the van and the van had a dent in it when he picked it up. They called back that it was their mistake and all was well. It would seem that they were hopping he would be a business expense client and ignore the added costs.
An expression of thought and desires for the upcoming year.
The upcoming year will be a great year.
I will fly more and enjoy longer trips in the airplane.
I will play more golf with some new clubs that I will purchase during the winter months.
The homes that I will sell will total 12 during the next 12 months.
I will take care of myself by working out by playing squash with Warren and working out at the YMCA as much as I feel comfortable with.
I will continue to get regular massages for the relaxation of the body and the soul. I will make a point of relating with Susan.
I will make a greater effort to spend more time with Fred over the next year.
I will learn a couple more skills, magic and learning how to write a book or a journal that may be of interest to other people.
I will keep a reasonable distance form my boys, Cory and Dana to allow them to continue to grow and mature as adults and successful young men, but at the same time give them as much assistance and help as will help them.
I will stay in contact with Gillian to ensure that she is able to make the transition in her life and still maintain her health and mental well being.
I will invest as much money as possible with Derek and my own vehicle to ensure a fund in the future and the enjoyment of reacting to the market.
I will not allow the daily irritants of life to create an atmosphere that is draining and bothersome.
This I will do to the best of my ability.
This is a neutral life we live. We make of it what we want. We decide how we react to the events that occur around us. The mental state that we create in our life allows us to justify the actions or reactions that we take in response to our perceptions. It is an easy out that is uppermost in our own context. Therein lies the key to our ability to win over or lose to the actions of others that we are close to or far from.

Sunday, Oct. 28, clear, sunny and warm +8
Saturday was slow because of the light rain and snow.
Watched some world series baseball, Arizona Diamond backs won the first game over the Yankees 9-1. Pitching was the key, with the Yankee pitcher making some poor pitches and the fielders committing some errors to allow the win. Second game tonight is tonight.
Called Cory last night and talked to Gillian for a few minutes because he had gone out for the evening to do the Halloween thing.
Picked up Susan later and we went out for coffee and a piece of birthday cake. Went over to her place to watch a DVD movie but the units were not hooked up correctly so we watched a movie on T.V. Mathew was up so the event was a little hectic until he was put to bed. Came home and watched a little tube, turned the clocks back because a day light savings time and went to bed.
The traffic on Sunday is good with a couple of interested couple, one from Camrose and a couple from Donsdale. Some potential there with these people.
The days are good with the month of October coming to an end and with it the possibility of getting depressed close to an end and all the frustration that comes with it.
Warren has not called as to if and when he has returned from his trip to Ottawa. We should get some games in this week. I certainly miss the activity that squash brings.
Susan said that she will try to arrange a racquetball game for tonight.
Susan and I discussed the small problems that our children are encountering as they grow up. They are not major in real terms but seem to be a great deal when they are going through it. The parents are the ones that have to be careful in how they are reacting to it. Sue and Fred are coming to terms with the difficulties the Kelsey is going through and the seemingly insurmountable problems that are in her way.

Monday, Oct. 29, Thursday, Nov. 1, sunny, clear and +9 warm fall day
Traffic on Monday was very slow with the weather being cold and windy.
I managed to pick up a sore throat from some children that came through with their parents.
I played squash with Warren in the evening although I felt off a little. We played like two elephants lumbering around the court because we had not played for so long. We tied in the number of games and had a good time all in all. He had mentioned that the week in Ottawa was good and productive but he came back feeling tired after all the mental and physical work he had put in with the groups and people he had met with.
Tuesday was a cold and dreary day that started a week with few people coming through the house. Those that came by were serious about building a home and something good should come from it. A previous homeowner who had a Rocksolid Home built for them is coming by on Saturday to discuss building a new home in a town outside of the city since he is now working there. He has the plan and size he wants from his discussions with John back in 1992. This should be good. The deal came together with Cam this week I am sure by all the work that John was doing. I will know for sure later next week and will be able to be paid in the next short while.
Jason is now established in town with his work routine. Things should be a little bit less hectic with him around. He will be able to spend some time with Holly and Mathew and the dog to spread out the work that is occurring in everyday life. I am continuing to find information for them and letting them come to any decision that they feel comfortable.
The men's group was active on Thursday with only Warren not showing up.
Peter shared the blow up he had with his son; the yelling and anger that he displayed because of something his son had not done. Hector related the same information about his children not listening to him when he was trying to make them do something that was necessary before they went to school. Everett talked about relaxing the intensity of work that he is involved in. He is taking time to relax during the day when he is working. He and Louise are planning to take a week off and holiday with their children in Jasper sometime before Christmas. He is looking forward to it. We all talked about what we like doing on a personal basis and how some of us never knew how to take time off and just enjoy things that we liked doing.
Hector is having coffee with the new lady who has the two large dogs and no children this coming Sunday. Everett talked about doing work and bidding contracts that cost him money. He knew he was going to lose money on the work but something was made him do it anyway work even though he knew that it was wrong. He was going to think about why he would do these things. He said that it had almost stopped in comparison to how much he had done it in the past. Louise and he are getting along very well. He said that she is finally relaxing after a month of being off work. Another two months will bring her to the level were she is relaxed enough to consider another type of work or venture.
I tried to go flying this week but the head cold has grounded me until it goes away. I checked out the available planes at the Edmonton Flying Club and several are available on Sunday morning. I will go up if the weather is passable.

Saturday, Nov. 3 Tuesday, Nov. 6 +1
Surprising news came by way of Warren after his lunch date with Jeff. Jeff was in a talkative mood when he and Warren had lunch in Edmonton last week. Jeff has decided not to move to Toronto with his wife and children to create a new business empire in that city. Instead he has resumed his contact with Nora to work things out, as he said to Warren. Warren was not to sure what that meant or he would not say. Jeff and Nora have met several times in the past weeks. I am not sure if Victoria knows of these meetings. This is a great disappointment to me. Jeff has no sense of finality and getting on with his life. He is training Nora very well and she is going along with it, for what ever reason. It is the old story of "I will get a divorce soon" but until then, let us be a couple, even if I do not tell my other partner. The emotion makes us all do strange things and act in ways that do not make logical sense. This is all I can chalk it up to. These two are further back than they were several years ago. Jeff cannot handle a happy situation. He will pay dearly for what he is doing at the moment with Nora. Victoria, when she finds out about this continuing relationship will be relentless in her punishment of Jeff. Maybe this is something that he has to have; the punishment for being bad, because of his upbringing. Jeff certainly needs some professional help, but I doubt that he will go for it. I hope he does.
Warren has created a new type of friendship relationship with Sally and is comfortable with how it is moving along. He has also allotted a certain amount of time to creating the new computer program for the internet site and business site that will allow him to expand his business and expertise across North America. The balance that he has at the moment is perhaps a little to much work, but he realizes that it is short time activity that he is balancing with fewer hours in the future.
Peter is still fixating over Linette's devotion and focus on the work she does at Kindergarten. He is rationalizing it and seems comfortable but is still holding a grudge deep down. He might feel that with the money and wealth they have, she does not have to work full time for the money, so with a part time morning job she should be able to be available and present for him and their son in the evenings and weekends. Peter has a great need to control and have order in his life. This is not to his liking and will continue to grate on him and his sensibilities. I think more than he is letting on. The traveling he is doing with his wife and son are to create a closeness among them. If this is the only time that she is present to him (not even totally) then his resentment of an ordered life will be tested. He made note of her determination to visit day care and kindergarten schools at the places that they will be visiting.
Everett is reducing the number of hours along with the intensity of the work he is involved in. He has come to the realization that he cannot be intense all day long. He has to relax during the day and just enjoy his surroundings and not be worried about his work all the time. He has been able to relax a little more around Louise and is communicating better with her than he did in the past. The built up frustration, from his insecurity is lessening as the weeks go by. His decision to create and plan a family trip to Jasper in December is a good indication that he is changing his focus so he can create a new balance in his life.
Hector is relating better to his ex wife and his children now that he has gained the confidence that he can be a great dad. I expect that he was overwhelmed with the prospect of raising the boys on his own. He is better with this possibility now. He is still concerned that he does not have a female influence in their lives. He seems to be determined to find a relationship that is permanent and will benefit both he and his children.
I am coping well with the quietness of my life at the moment. October and the possible depression that could occur was handled with care and sensitivity and did not present itself. The thoughts and consideration of contact with my previous partner to create some action and disruption, stress, in my life has been noted over the past month. It could be in line with the month of October feelings and nothing more than a self destructive thought. The thoughts are put off with the realization that the reality of contact would not lead to anything positive and will create the lose of Susan in my life.
My relationship with Susan is flowing quietly and peacefully with most of our expectations being fulfilled. The depth of our emotions is in sync most of the time. Although I feel a strange sensation that I cannot put into real thoughts.

Wednesday, Nov. 7 Nov 15, Thursday,
The week has been very warm and enjoyable for the season.
Work has been going very well with the traffic that is coming to the house, intent on making decisions. Terry and Alice from Leduc will confirm the building of a home in Leduc this week with John. John is to meet with Don and Heather with the preliminary plans for the home in Lakeshore. Barb came by with her husband to see the Artisan and make a decision before the end of the month because of raising home prices. The realtor should be able to quote a realistic price for their current home. The couple from north of town have confirmed that they will be in on the weekend to do up the papers for a new home. The lot is on hold till Monday and the price is to their liking.
Warren and Peter were not at the meeting this week. Everett missed the meeting last week. Hector and I have been at both. Peter is still not over Linnette's fixation on her work. Both Hector and I are worried about his mental state now that he is getting nose bleeds.
Hector replied to an ad in the local paper by sending a letter to a woman he found interesting. She called him and they went out for a quick glass of wine and some dinner on a Tuesday evening. He was quite taken with her and all her energy, activities and self assuredness. He will call her again to try and continue the contact. She is very busy with a great deal of things happening to her (his words). A type “A” personality that is intent on making things come about. He said that she is very sure of herself and knows what she wants. He had a glimmer in his eye as he talked about her.
Warren has been working at a constant pace with his new computer program he is creating for the internet company that could become a product used world wide if there is enough interest. He seems quite happy and has created a nice balance in his new relationship with Sally.
Last weekend was quite special with Susan getting together for a video on Saturday night at my place and then a game of racquetball on Sunday. I had a little bit of trouble with her actions but it was my problem and not hers. I was able to get over it by Monday. Rejection is still a problem for me and I seek it out any where I can if I get a chance.
I arranged to go flying with Christine and get checked out on the piper next week. I spent some time hanger flying the plane on Wednesday so I would have a little more knowledge of the aircraft when next week comes around. It will be fun. I will go out to the plane again on Friday and get more acquainted with it and do some real flying if the weather is OK.

Sunday, Nov. 18 Sunny, +3, lovely fall day
The fall weather continues to be beautiful with winter being put off one more day at a time. The snows continue in the mountains so the winter skiing should be fine.
Had a great time last night at a house party with Susan and her friends Anne, Irene and ?. Susan and I went to the Alberta Museum to have a look at the 60's retro show, walked in and were handed passes that said crew, sat down in the theatre , watched some live performances by the Kit Kat club singers (three women) a live band and some poetry reading. We went to see the display, met Anne and her friend and then had a buffet. The 60's theme with all the people dressed up was fabulous. We did not know a thing about it. Anne and her friends are volunteers for the duration of the show. We had a great time dancing and doing silly things. It was a great deal of fun and I did not feel out of place dancing with the three or four women around me. We will have to go back and go through the display in more detail to see exactly what they have.
The traffic is average for the time of year with the western final football game between Calgary and Edmonton in Edmonton this day. My client came in on Saturday to do the agreement for the new home. They will meet with John after he puts together the blue prints for them. We may have to move them to another lot in the same area to accommodate the garage the want.
The men's group went well with Hector, Everett and I in attendance. Peter and Warren were unable to make the meeting. I called Jim about the group supper meeting on Thursday; he was very pleased to hear from me and will be at the meeting. Warren has company in from out of town so was unable to make a squash game on Saturday.
I went flying on Friday for an hour. It was a beautiful day to fly. Did some steep turns and got to know the aircraft and feel a bit better about flying. I did complete the Piper pre exam for Tuesday for speed and procedures. I will look at them again before Tuesday when I meet with Christine. A new Diamond 2 seater aircraft was parked at the Club tarmac. The pilot was on his way to B.C. It was a nice plane; not much storage space but a great plane for training. The aircraft had a clean fast look.

Saturday, Sept 15, sunny and clear, +27, beautiful fall day.
The weather was perfect on Friday.
I spent some time at the office talking with Chris about the photos of the Rocksolid homes that have been built.
Drove to the Edmonton Flying club, chatted with them, found out that all the planes were booked for the day.
Called Derek but he was busy working. So I went golfing as a walk on at Goose Hummock. Had a good day even if the long drives were a little of an embarrassment. The walk was long and I will be taking a golf cart from now. Golf is to be fun but with the long walk of 5 hours it is not fun anymore when the legs are aching in the evening. The company of the other golfers was good and the course was in great shape. I managed to connect with Derek in the evening. He was working long hours because he and Viola are off to Vancouver for Tom S's wedding next Saturday. He is taking care of himself even if he is spending long hours at the job. Derek said that they stopped in at the hot springs that Susan talked about from her trip up North this spring.
The dreary discussion continues on most of the TV channels about the destruction in the United States . The speculation by all the “experts” who are now getting on the television shows and how much they know about everything is getting tiring and repetitious. The Canadian channels are starting to get back to regular programming.
The sports industry has been shut down till next week in memory of the many deaths. People are starting to say they need the sports and games to take their minds off the constant barrage of depressing information about the events.
Warren called for a squash game this morning. Sally came along for workout and was waiting for us when we finished. The games were good, with my winning the majority of games. We spent some time discussing the events of the week and relating our experiences. Warren has at least another full week of intense work and long hours before he completes the programming and running of the new computor programs. He is near the end of this segment of the company and product that he is creating. It will be an experience that will stay with him for a long time.
He said that no one showed up at the group last week. Peter had suggested that he would be there, but Michel and Hector had said they would not be able to make it.
I told Warren about my phone call to mom during the disaster on Tuesday to see how she was and her statement about how much it meant to her. He said that his mother had called him and other members of the family to make sure that they were all right.
The hole has been dug for the Noel's home on Friday.
The traffic has been quite slow today, only about 5 people, even with the great weather. I would guess that they are enjoying the warm weather and doing things around the house. I expect two people back on Sunday to get more information and to look at the houses again. Kimberley will be in to get some hard prices for the Nantucket, which will be in her price range. The fellow from Thursday will bring in his wife to look at the Artisan again. If the house in BC has sold I would expect Kimberley to make a quick decision if her husband is agreeable. Her daughter would finally have a house to call her own and a room to play in.

Sunday, Sept. 16 - sunny and clear +21 Beautiful fall day. Weather is great.
Good traffic with a couple of leads. The media is still all over the destruction in New York. Stock market opens tomorrow with no one knowing what will happen. Bush continues to threaten everyone he does not like. Little does he know that his power is very limited over a people that have nothing to lose and nothing to destroy.
Susan is well. Dana called to say that he continues to look for work outside the film industry. He had one day of work on a film. He and a friend are trying to create a company that will allow them to get a grant to produce some unique items. This is something in the future.

Wednesday, Sept. 19, cloudy and rain showers + 19
The weather patterns have created showers over the three past days.
I had lunch with Cheryl on Tuesday after I drove out to Leduc to take some photos of the homes we built out there. Her cold is gone and she is progressing on her work duties at the hotel. She is meeting with the boss to further define these duties. She said Darryl is OK but is spending too much time at her place and seems to want to move in instead of getting a place of his own. At the moment he is living at his mother's place.
Lee and Shirley came in with a checque for the deposit on Monday and will meet with John next Monday to finalize the house plans. Cam met with John and I on Tuesday to further the plans on his home at the end of Potter Greens. He is leaving at the end of Sept for three weeks on a golf holiday so John wants to have as much finalized and be ready to build before he goes away. So would I.
I continue to look at laptop computers, Compaq, IBM and others at Future Shop, Staples and similar places. The price range is all about the same. I will have to wait till I have other things paid off and will reward myself with this unit when the time is correct. I will also look at a sofa when I get back from Toronto.
Susan is spending the early part of the week at Maxine's place since she is out of town for two weeks. She is quite enjoying being close to her dad and the quietness in the house. Holly is a little put out with her mother staying somewhere else but will not take it too hard.
The speech therapist came to look and listen to Mathew and suggested that he is fine but will come back to have another look at him later.
Peter called to say that he is going to his class reunion in Winnipeg this weekend and will not be at the group session. We should be holding it at the showhome since I do not have any one scheduled for Thursday.

Sunday, Sept. 23 sunny +24, GREAT AUTUMN WEATHER
Friday was great.
Weather was a little drizzly but I went out to River Ridge golf course to see what I could see. The course was in great shape and only a few people were around. The special green fee was $25 and included a cart. Started off myself and played with my swing which started to come together. Met up with a couple of other guys my age and played the rest of the round with them. It was a good time and I got to hit with a new driver one of the fellows had on a trial basis. Nice driver, my slice might be the result of the old club I have. I will have to look for an orphan large driver at one of the golf stores this winter.
Played squash with Warren on Saturday, who informed me of his discussion with Jeff from Toronto. Warren told him that he was back together with Victoria and they might be moving to Toronto to live and work. They would sell their homes here and start a fresh life in the East. I said I was very surprised and did not let on that Nora had met with me and filled me in last month. Jeff gave Warren quite a different story. He wanted to tell Warren something else but was not able to complete the information for one reason or another.
Jeff has slipped back to what makes him comfortable and will have a much more difficult time when he hits the wall again in the future. He will be able to hide himself in work for a long time so he does not have to confront the things and issues he is avoiding. I wish him the best but I doubt that it will work out in the long run. Warren felt that Jeff was on the wrong track also.
Work is progressing well with continued interest from a couple clients, especially Kimberley.
The wedding that Susan and I went to last night was quite lovely with the newly wed 38 year olds (second wedding for both) being quite a special event. We danced and had a relaxed fun time. Susan is discussing with Holly and Luke the living arrangement while they are in town. Luke's application for the RCMP has been put on hold for a year, so now he is not sure of what he wants to do. He is not interested in school and is at loose ends. Susan is a little concerned but will let him make up his own mind.
Traffic is good on Sunday with Kimberley back in with more questions and fine tuning their new home. It depends on the sale of their home in BC. It may be a deal not worth chasing because of the difficulties that are starting to make themselves known. I will get as much from the guys and pass it on to Kimberley and her husband.
Cory was in a good mood when we talked on Thursday. He is looking at going down to the south and spending some time with Greg for a vacation.
Gillian is all excited about the reception for Simon and wants me to help move tables and chairs on Friday. I intend to spend the time with Dana if he is not working on a job. She will be disappointed but she will have a great deal of help. Cory will be working for her for rent. He and I worked out what we are doing for Dana's birthday. I will spend some money to get his computer up and running. Linda will chip in and maybe get him a micro wave so he can at least eat hot food.

Monday, Sept. 24, sunny + 29 great fall day
Lee and Shirley P came in to talk with John and sign off on the conditions. John helped them finalize the design on the house with a blue print to come before Lee leaves on a holiday Oct. 8
Slow day in terms of traffic.
Susan C had supper with Susan R to catch up on their lives, and all that is happening with their daughters and grand children. She said that they had a very good evening.
Dana called after midnight and woke me up. I was not impressed.

Sept. 25 sunny, +29 another great fall day.
Meet Cheryl for a golf game at River Ridge. The weather was great and we had a good time. I showed Cheryl the finer points and the basic points of the golf game so she could enjoy the outing. She said that she had a great time. She has purchased a car that she has desired for a long time. Her work is going well, as is her relationship with her fellow. She has a good understanding of his good points as well as her limitations. TJ's birthday party was a great success.
I chatted with mother to set up a lunch date with her on Wednesday. She is in a good mood and is taking Gillian's energy burst in a light vain.
Cheryl had not heard that Merci was preparing a surprise birthday party for Terry at the end of the month. She said that she was not surprised.

Wednesday, Sept 26.-
Monday, Oct. 1, cloudy + 16,
Back from Toronto and the reception for Simon and Kati. Good time was had by all. I will have to catch up on sleep this week. The next few weeks will be nice and relaxing.
Nothing much happened at the show home with John - a few people came back but did not make any aggressive moves that would result in a sale.
I picked up a cheque from Chris and deposited it this afternoon. It will help after the money that I have loaned to Dana and Cory. This will have to come to an end.
Gillian did well with the reception and all the guests. She had a great deal of help from Kay, Gordon and Marion plus many others. Jason treated her poorly by setting things up so he and she would do everything and then he made sure he would not be able to be around to do anything because of work. Simon and Kati were wonderful although a little bit overwhelmed by the week end. Gillian continued her insecurity with a constant question on how everyone enjoyed themselves and if everything was great and on and on and on.
Cory and Dana continue on their lives. I will have to let them live it as they see fit.
I will have to limit the help or interference with money and direction. It will be hard but it is something I will have to do. I will need to protect my finances should anything happen to me. I cannot finance their living easily in Toronto anymore. They will have to make the hard decisions if they are to get full value from life.
Susan and I chatted on Saturday night. She was OK and at home. She said that she would have to make an attitude adjustment in her feelings toward the kids at home and the invasion of her privacy.
The flights were good both to and from Toronto. I did not have a great deal of time to chat with Gillian about her concerns but came to the conclusion that she is a very negative person in a rather different way. Her ability to criticize or critique a person or an event is a constant in her life. She continues this in a repetitive fashion over a long period of time, years, and hours or minutes whatever the time frame that suits her. She cannot comprehend or cannot believe that her way of doing things is not the correct or accepted way of doings things and everyone should know these things or at least strive to do things correctly. Her repetitive actions continue to turn people off and frustrate them. That is her style and I do not think that she will ever change and will be hard pressed to even consider that what she is doing, has created a wall between her and many other people.
Tuesday, Oct. 2 /2001 to Feb 2002 sunny clear warm fall day + 22

The traffic was slow yesterday because of the weather and cool temperatures.
Called several clients to pass on different amounts of information and stay in touch. One of the clients suggested it would be March before the will was completed. I have not heard back from John M. He was confident that he would call back when he was ready. Went over to Susan's place last night, had a coffee, chatted with Holly and Luke for a while. Holly is continuing to look at new homes to build and getting information on homes that are on the market. She managed to get bitten by a large dog while she was walking her large dog. The leg was bruised but was OK otherwise. Mathew is still being active and quite busy in the evenings with all the attention he is getting. He talks a great deal but is not forming words to the satisfaction of his mother. A speech therapist is coming by on a regular basis to assess and assist Holly in any work that is needed.
I left after a while because I was tired; all the energy was a bit much. Susan skipped her water exercise on Monday because I came over. That was nice of her. We are getting together at my place after work. It will be a great deal quieter.
I went through Cory's boxes, found his tapes and a few other things along with his darts that I will send out to him. I managed to clean out some stuff, consolidate a few other items and will be able to throw out some boxes that had been stored in the closet. I should be able to take apart the speakers that came from the truck and combine them with the other large speakers. I should call him to find out whether he wants me to send him the stuffed bears and toys that he has accumulated in the boxes.
Warren is in Ottawa and will be back next week. I miss the squash that was a regular part of our week.
The boys are out golfing today, a great day. I talked to Carol today and will take her and her sister out for lunch on Friday the 12 if all is well to thank them for the work they do behind the scenes for me. She was quite pleased to be asked.
I paid off some of the Credit card debt and left some money in the bank for the upcoming expenses. When I get paid for Cam's house it will go toward the balance of the card debt.
Melvina should come in soon to put some money down on this house for spring occupancy.
I will have to talk with Gillian in the future but I will allow her to call me and ask me how I enjoyed the reception. She will have asked everyone who was there may times how they felt about the do.
Simon and Kati will now go about their normal work days, film and medicine and create a normalcy that will hold them in good stead.
Gillian will need the help of Val and other friends to become comfortable with what is happening. She will now be able to talk about the new foreign woman that is in Jason's life and how it would be perceived by the people and friends around her. I am surprised that Gillian did not mention Sidney, the dog, until I brought it up. Sidney, will shuttled between Jason and his ex-girlfriend and Gillian’s place by Gillian.

Wednesday, Oct, 3, cool fall day windy and some clouds + 18
Susan stayed for coffee last night but only for a little while, she seemed to be in a hurry but maybe it was my imagination. She is quite preoccupied by the events that are happening in her home. Luke has decided to travel to Florida with his girl this Christmas and use some of his student loan to do so. The ease that young kids play with their money. I am now indifferent with how Cory and Dana use their money.
Delivered the ladder to Susan's place and left it in the area by the garage. I rescued a box from the recycle area by a store, packed it with the printer, video tapes, pictures and some clothes for Cory and sent it on the Greyhound bus collect. He will have to pay to get it as he said he would.
The days are slow and I am expecting more. I got paid and put as much money against the visas and other bills. I have some money in the bank with the good potential of more coming in shortly. I want more but I do not know what more is.
I miss playing squash with Warren for both the physical and mental relief it brings me.
There will be a lot more traffic on the weekend and the deals will be made. John and Cam are moving ahead on his deal so that should come together this month.
Louise, Susan's sister is quite disturbed with Susan not continuing her smoking cessation. It is her problem brought about by her mother's passing away from lung problems. Bob is doing well with his back problems since he is continuing to do the therapy that is necessary to help get his back into shape.
I expect the weather to be great on Friday, so I hope to get in a game of golf so that I will give Derek a good game next week when we play.
Peter, Everett and Warren will be away on Thursday, Hector will be the only one around this week so the meeting will be small.
The October time frame for a depression is upon me so I will have to be careful in how I conduct myself and how I think of things. It is quite different then at this time last year when I was nearing the end of my employment income. I was in a good situation and was starting to come to the conclusion that I would not get a job in the aviation industry and would consider it only as a hobby and personal entertainment. “This is a good thing” as Martha would say.
The price of laptop computers has come down again this fall with a Compaq 12111 at $1600. I will still wait and get some tires for the car so I will not have any trouble with the ice and snow that is to come soon. Mother was in a good mood when I chatted with her a couple of days ago. I have an appointment with the dentist to get my teeth cleaned on Thursday. The news should be good as I have been taking care of them much better than I have over the past many years.
My current computer is continuing to be frustratingly slow but perhaps it is how it is configured and not really the speed of the unit.
Oh well I will have to deal with it as it exists. I really am not going anywhere fast.

Thursday, Oct. 4 Saturday, Oct 6 clear, sunny and colm+18
A lovely fall day.
Thursday was slow with the traffic just looking if they came in at all. The weather was cold with a strong wind that had winter in the air.
Hector showed up for the group with everyone else away busy with work.
Friday was a lovely fall day with clear skies and a temperature of +18. I went golfing at River Ridge with some members and enjoyed the day. I continued to work on my game and I am quite happy with the way it is progressing. The long club will drive the ball straight if I stand closer to the ball and hit it off the heel of the club. I was still light with the putter and not getting the ball to the hole. The wedge worked well and I will continue to improve with it. I will try to go back this week and also get in a game with Derek at the Goose.
I took in a movie in the evening as Susan was busy seeing Anne and enjoying dinner. She is meeting with her cousins tonight. I am invited to Pat and L's for dinner on Sunday and then to Susan's for steak on Monday. She is doing what she wants to do and I am getting on with my life. The turmoil at her home is creating a new life style for her and she will have to come to terms with it. I am confident that she will be able to come to terms with what she wants to do. I will stay out of it for the moment.
Warren called Saturday morning to say he was back and to arrange a squash game. We played for 45 minutes and were done in when our time was up. Two weeks slowed us down a little but we will get back into it and work our way back over the next month.
The boys are fine with Cory not too concerned about not working. The work he is doing for Greg is enough for him at the moment. He had a discussion with the labor guy about his dismissal and said that his firing denied his employment insurance claim. It is up to him to come to whatever conclusion he wants in this area. He said Dana is OK but had not talked to him for a couple of days.
Of course, I had just left on Monday and I talked to him on Wednesday so nothing much had happened. I chatted with Gillian who was glad that 95% went well but was displeased that the 5% (her hair) was not in control during the day according to Mrs. Newfeld. She is sounding very needy.
I am working my way through Susan's busy schedule else where and her distance from me.
It is October so I am aware of the feelings that are just under the surface. I will keep busy and do things that are in my best interest. She will do the same. I think that Luke's new direction is causing her more stress than Holly's changes.
Traffic is slow on Saturday even though the weather is very nice. Perhaps later on in the day the people will start coming in. The people may be out shopping for the Thanksgiving turkey and all the other related food stuffs.
I think that I will drop by a Casino tonight for a short time and enjoys the sights and sounds of the people and the tables. Who knows I may even gamble a little and play the black jack games.

Sunday, Oct. 7 clear and sunny +16, Monday, thanksgiving day, clear , sunny +15
Sunday was a quiet day with only a little traffic.
I went over to Pat and L's for supper with Susan, her dad and Luke. It was pleasant evening.
I drove Susan back to her place and visited with Holly and Mathew after which I went home and watched some T.V.
I discussed Cory's phone call with Susan even though I was not going to. He and Gillian had a discussion around her perception that he was not in an equal relationship with me. She was out of line with what she said to him but I left it up to him to refute her statement and he did.
I talked to both he and Dana in separate phone calls Sunday evening. They are both doing well and I will leave it up to them to get through their lives. The money will stop and Dana will have to touch his mother or someone else for short term help. I do not know what Cory will do but he will make some decisions that he will learn by and focus his life on.
My work is going well and I am going to stop feeling that things are to happen quickly. The past few months have been good with the promise of Cam before the end of the month. Kimberly may even show up one day and say her home has been sold.
Money is not a problem and won't be for a long time. The traffic on Monday has been getting better as the day has progressed. Several good leads have come my way.
If the weather is good on Tuesday I will slip down to River Ridge and get a game of golf in before I go to work. Hopefully Derek will call to arrange a game before the end of the week. He is probably all golfed out after spending time in the mountains and golfing.
The evening spent at the Casino was fun and profitable. The dollar slots were paying well with the $3 turns. The roulette was a bust with none of my numbers coming even close to the winning number. I had a good time with good luck at Blackjack and got up and cashed in with a considerable amount of money. I gassed up the car on expensive gas at cheap gas prices and had a late evening supper complements of the Casino.
It is strange to have disposable cash on hand. Tomorrow, grocery shopping in a big way and some laundry.
The computer and the sofa can wait for a while.
I wonder if and what Gillian will say about the discussion that she had with Cory. I doubt that she will mention it at all, which would be a good thing.
If the weather holds, I should get out and do some flying to keep my hand in the thick of things.
A lunch with Carol and Gloria on Friday is something that I cannot forget if they can make it. A small consideration for all the work they do behind the scenes. Susan R's last day of work was on Friday. Now she gets to stay home and be with her granddaughter and daughter. The change will be interesting with Fred's reaction to the spending of money and who controls it. She will get him to spend more time at home and in her company so that they have a better quality of life.
Tuesday, Oct 9, Saturday, Oct. 13, very windy 45 km. +9
The week has been quiet.
Susan came over last night after I got home from having supper with Jim and Mother. Jim called in the afternoon to say that he was in Leduc loading for a trip to Calgary. I got hold of Mother and we met for supper at the Saratoga. Had a good conversation with him and then he was off to Calgary for the evening. He is not working too hard with only a few trips to Vancouver every two weeks. His son is handling all the Calgary traffic. Jim said that Quentin is doing well.
Carol and Gloria did not come out for lunch with me on Friday so I got a haircut and did some shopping for a winter coat. I found one at Mountain Equipment coop. I will get it later on when the cold weather comes into Alberta. I have to get some winter tires for the car in the next month.
Everyone was at the group meeting on Thursday.
Hector caught us up on his dating ritual and the females in his life. He is doing a great deal of e-mailing with a female call Veronica. Warren told us about his good trip to his nephew’s wedding overseas and how well his computer program is coming. He also refreshed our memory about Jeff and his return to his wife, Victoria. He felt Jeff was doing it for the tradition of the family not because he really was in love with her. Warren felt that Jeff would like Nora be at the plane to meet him instead of Victoria. Oh well. Peter and Linette are getting along very well now that he has backed off and not being as anxious about her working so much in the afternoon and the evenings. Their trip to Australia with the side trip to Indonesia is being revised because of the conflict and the majority of Muslims in those countries. Everett has taken Louise out to lunch several times and is planning a trip to Jasper when time permits. He is very aware of over extending himself in work time tables and such. The meeting was a good one. I suggested contacting Dr. Tom for a supper meeting before Christmas.
I contacted Melvina and several possible clients about the price increase for the spring and the possibility of their fixing the building price by starting the process this fall. They were all open to this idea.
Susan took the day off on Friday because of the frustration that is building up in the office. She took some time to get a massage and spent the day relaxing. I put a lock on the side gate at her home so Mathew could not let the dog out. Holly was very impressed and told her mother what I had done.
Mother said that Gillian has been calling quite a bit over the week and is trying to extend the energy and hype of the wedding and the party held in Toronto. She was happy that mother was able to see the photos of the party. Gillian has had several discussions with Cory about her perception of his participation in her dinners with her friends. Cory has basically let this roll off his back, except for calling me and expressing his frustration with Gillian's lack of understanding. I told him that he is an adult as she is and to treat this as something between them. I was not a referee.
Cheryl had a good weekend golfing at Vegreville with her guy and her son. Derek came over to Mother's with Anya and Taneen and their two children to meet with Mother and get the pillows that she had decorated for them. Mother was very pleased. Scott is traveling to the States to play hockey for a low level team in Michigan and Andrew is welding in Fort Mac.
Susan said that Fred spent a week at home recently to spend some time with his wife and to get a break from work. Good for him. The balance will be good when he achieves it.
Dana called last night but I did not answer the call since I was with Susan. We checked the number by using star 69. His birthday is on Monday and I am in the process of sending him a card and money for a beer.