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MAY JOURNALS

Date:

05 May 2003

Time:

16:23:27

Todays Journal

May 4

We woke up and started to pack up. It rained so hard last night. The drive home was nice but when we got to Chilliwack it just came down like you would not believe. We got home around 3:30 and had to pack up the truck. Not much really happened today. I'm just going to relax tonight

May 3

Today we got off to a very slow start. I could hardly move today, but I still had a lot to do. We had to put up the lights. I bought them at Christmas and when we opened them they did not plug into each other, that really sucked. I had to go into town and try to find some. The Home Hardware store has everything. It's so hot today we had to put on our shorts. Got the lights up and pruned the trees. Everything is clean - we are finally finished. We're going out for dinner with our friends tonight. I had chicken salad, it was very good, but I was very bad. I also had five rye's with Pepsi and I had a beer earlier today. I guess that was my treat for the next month.

May 2

Woke up and could hardly move. We got the deck finished this morning, it looks beautiful. I have been raking up all the leaves and burning them. The wind finally died down thank god. The right side of my hip to my toe is killing me. I have had so much pain behind my knee. It's not funny - I could hardly walk. My problem is I don't know when to stop. We finally finished working around 11:00 p.m..

May 1

My back was so sore this morning from that drive. We started working on the new deck. By the early morning my back was killing me from all the bending - more Tylenol's. It's going to take us three days to get everything done. The wind started to pick up and we had a thunder and lightening storm - so cool, but we kept on working. We finished for the day around 9:00 p.m.. We are both just wiped. We are going to go and watch a movie now.

April 30

I woke up with sore back not looking forward to the long drive today. Had to get everything ready that we were taking on our trip. The drive was too long - my back was in muscle spasms. We stopped in Princeton and had supper. I had a cup of chicken soup and only ate half of it, with two cups of coffee. When we got to the trailer in Osoyoos we sat outside and had a beer. It was so warm outside that we did not have to wear coats. It's going to be a very busy day tomorrow - we have so much to do.

Date:

08 May 2003

Time:

21:59:43

Todays Journal

May 7

Woke up at 4:30 I was in so much pain. My back was in muscle spasms and pain right down my leg. It has been that way all day today. I had to take Tylenol and I hate doing that. Did not do very much today. I was watching the hockey game and I was getting frustrated. I had to turn it off. Maybe next game.

May 6

I started traction today at physio. It was really weird being stretched. Had a lot of running around to do this afternoon. I did not get home till 5:15. I was suppose to go to my brothers tonight for cake and coffee - it's his birthday. He lives in Maple Ridge but traffic was so bad that I cancelled. I'll see him on the weekend. I'll see my whole family on Sunday at Tommy's Show & Shine.

May 5

I went to visit my sister-in-law this afternoon. Talked to Phyllis - it's that time again. I have my assessment on Monday. It really does not feel like a month has gone by. Watched the hockey game - it sucked.

Date:

10 May 2003

Time:

19:55:10

Todays Journal

May 8

Went to physio first thing this morning. I think she does not know what to do with me anymore. Well I have to go back to the doctors next week and find out where we go from here. Today I have been bad. I missed lunch today because I was out with my boyfriend’s mom taking her to the hairdresser to get her hair cut. When I got home it was just too late, supper would be in another hour. I was more hungry today because I missed one meal. I really hate missing a meal and find myself looking at the clock to eat. I can hardly wait till Monday for my assessment. The hockey game really sucked. Well it's over till next year.

May 9

I am trying to figure out if my back is feeling a little better from traction or not. It is so beautiful out I think I am going to work in the yard today. Next Wednesday I leave for Osoyoos again for the long weekend. I can hardly wait. I am trying to remember the things I have to bring with me this time. I hope the weather is going to be nice so I can tan these white legs. I have been doing all my stretching exercises everyday and it usually takes me about 45 minutes to complete them. I am going to try and go for a walk on Sunday morning and see how my shin splints are. I hope they are finally healed.

Date:

15 May 2003

Time:

01:07:32

Todays Journal

May 11

Went to my first meeting yesterday evening at Gator's. I could hear and see how John is so frustrated with all the negative thoughts. I know it was hard at first, but the benefits outweigh anything and it's something we can all be proud of. It's up to us to better our lives. What I could see is everyone looks fantastic. If anyone needs someone to talk to I am just an e-mail away. I had to go to Wal-Mart first thing this morning and get some of the things we need to take with us to Osoyoos. I also bought a new pair of jeans for today. I could hardly believe it - I could fit into a size 12 (Hip Hip Hurray). I went to Tommy's Show-N-Shine in Surrey - it was a blast - even my son came. It was a perfect Mother's day and I got to spend it with my whole family and my friends.

May 12

My back was very sore from sitting all day yesterday and I will be standing a lot today. I had to go for my second evaluation this morning. I could hardly believe it - I think my words were holly sh*t. I was on cloud nine all day - I had to phone everyone. That's great. I will be getting more to eat now. I came home and worked outside mowing the lawn and working in the garden. I had to take my boyfriends mother to the lawyers this afternoon. I am looking forward to going to Osoyoos on Wednesday and my son is coming. I will enjoy this weekend and the time I get to spend with him.

May 13

I had physio this morning and I don't have to go back till I come back next week. Last night I was not feeling very well and when I woke up this morning I still was feeling ill. I came home after physio and went to bed and slept most of the day. Not much happened today and tonight I will be packing to get ready to go. We leave tomorrow night I can hardly wait, I hope I feel better tomorrow. I have to go to the doctors tomorrow morning and also to bodies n motion to pick up what I am needing to eat now. I hope to see more people at the next meeting.

Date:

27 May 2003

Time:

10:02:37

Todays Journal

May 14

Had a doctors appointment first thing this morning and after that I had to go and meet Neaghn and get my new menu plan. I went to my sister-laws to find the Christmas lights so I could take them with us to Osoyoos and put them around the willow trees. We left around 6:00 and had to pick Kenny up in Abbotsford. The drive was great and there was know traffic. It was beautiful out when we got there we sat out side for awhile.

May 15

Got up and had breakfast the weather was beautiful. We must have had another windstorm. I had to rack the whole site again from the last time. After lunch I started to clean the inside of the trailer and also the blinds. We went into town and picked up a few things from Home Hardware I just love that store. We sat outside with the neighbors and had a fire. Kenny decided to go for a barefoot at 1:00 in the morning. That made me a little nervous. When he came in I went to bed.

May 16

Went into town and walked around for awhile today. We took a ride to Rock Creek on our way there it was snowing I could hardly believe it. When we got back Kenny and Dan went into town to get a haircut. Out of all the place in town they picked banana Bob's that's funny. After Dinner Kenny and Dan got into the Bubba Keg and about 9:00 Kenny was in bed. Everyone started to arrive tonight it was a fun night.

May 17

Went into Penticton to get some gas for Kenny's remote control truck. It was so windy out it was a nice break from the wind. It was so cold out tonight you did not want to leave the fire. Everyone was pretty mild tonight because it was so cold. My back was so sore from standing.

May 18

We went to town again I had to pick something up for dinner and to my favorite store. They have really cool things in the Home Hardware. Everyone started to party this afternoon and by the time we all had dinner there were a few tired people. A few of us where in watching Bachelor at a friend trailer because they have a satellite dish. Dan was pissing me off this evening with his comments all weekend long. I had enough and just went to bed.

May 19

Woke up around 9:00 and had breakfast. We had to pack everything up and put something's away. We stopped at Pat and Al's to have a look at the lawnmower for Al. Left Osoyoos around 12:30 traffic was going to be bad. My brother-law blow up his transmission on the way home that's the shit's. We came home and unpacked the truck and then went to get something to eat. I came home and went to bed.

May 20

I had physio first thing this morning and I think this is my last appointment. I came home and just relaxed today and did laundry. I also did my stretching exercises because I did not do them when I was away.

May 21

I went to the dentist this morning and was there for about an hour. I also went to see my sister for awhile. Not much happened today. I am feeling very tired tonight I have know energy at all.

Date:

27 May 2003

Time:

10:07:34

Todays Journal

May 22

Went to take my boyfriends mother for some test this morning downtown. I had to do some running around after that and pick up my prescription from the drug store. Found out that a friends Mother has Cancer and has only three week.

May 23

Did all my stretching this morning took me about an 1 hour to finish. Met my girlfriend for lunch and spent the rest of the time in the Casino. We where winning and having a great time. I never got home till 9:30 and then had to have dinner.

May 24

Got up and did an hour of my stretching exercises. I went to visit my sister-law in the afternoon. We went out for dinner this evening and I had a burger with fries. Dan and I went for a long walk after dinner, it was a nice night out along the ocean. I pulled something in my back and my leg was just starting to ache.

May 25

I woke up in the middle of the night in so much pain. I had to get up and take two Tylenol for the pain at 2:00. I had did my stretching exercises in the morning. I rather do them first thing in the morning and so I can do other things later on. We had to go out to Abbotsford to do the serp belt in my sister's van. On our way home we went to look at some new trailers. We then decided to go and visit my sister-law and pick up my patio table on our way home. I just sat outside this afternoon and enjoyed the beautiful day.

Date:

29 May 2003

Time:

10:36:30

Todays Journal

May 26

I did over an hour of stretching exercises this morning. Did not do very much today.

May 27

Just spent the day cleaning. Did all my stretching exercises. We went for a drive this evening and checked out some neighborhoods in Burnaby. I came home and called my Auntie Valerie to wish her a belated Happy Birthday and then went to bed.

May 28

We went out and repacked the bearings in the trailer to get ready for our holidays in June. We worked outside in the yard, it was such a beautiful day. We went for an hour walk tonight around Burnaby Lake.

Date:

02 Jun 2003

Time:

00:16:39

Todays Journal

May 29

I did only 30 minutes of my stretching exercises this morning. Then I had to go grocery shopping and to London Drugs to pick up some birthday cards. After lunch we went out to drop off Kimberly's birthday card in Surrey. Went and picked up some free weights this afternoon. I am trying to get a hold of my girlfriend so I could come out to Surrey early and beat traffic, but I did not get a hold of her. I just arrived at the meeting this evening and had a call from my mom that Jackie was in labour and I had to turn around and go back. I spent an hour in traffic to get to the meeting and now I had to go back. I hope that traffic is not going to be that bad. Jackie had a little baby girl. Her name is Charity Ann Joy. She did not come out all wrinkled. She is a little cutie. I waited for my Mom and her Dad to get there and then I went home. That was an exciting evening.

May 30

It's my Mom's Birthday today. I went over to see my brother and my Sister-law in Maple Ridge tonight and to do my rounds. Then I went over to my girlfriend's house to pick up my stuff from the home and gift party she had. I dropped off my Mom's at her house and then carried on to my next destination. I ended up at Susan and Jay's for awhile. I did not get home till 1:30 in the morning. The kids where partying in the school again when I pulled in. They make me nervous because we had our car broken into a couple of months ago.

May 31

I was not feeling well this morning. I only did about 30 minutes of exercises. I had to get ready and meet my Mom and Sister-law at the hairdressers this afternoon. We are taking my Mom and getting her hair done and a manicure for her Birthday and Mother's Day Present. They did a great job. She looks wonderful. Then we are meeting my brother and going out for dinner, it was a lot of fun. I think we all had a great time.

June 1

Went to Wal-Mart first thing this morning to pick up a few things that we needed and to beat the crowds. I was supposed to go and see my Grandson today and to drop off Brandy's things from the Home & Gift party but my boyfriend's brother was coming over to look at our computer. My computer shut down the other day. I had a nasty virus in it and it took over the whole thing. I called Brandy to tell her that I could not come and she decided that they would come and visit me for a change. That was great. I do not get to see my Grandson very much so that was wonderful. He's 8 months old now and getting such a personality. Sheldon is just a character the noises he makes and laughing now. He tries to crawl but its backwards. My little blonde haired, blue eyed sweet heart. He's just so precious to me. We had Chinese food for dinner and I also had 3 glasses of wine. These last few days have been very busy. My computer is back working again thank god.

Date:

05 Jun 2003

Time:

20:56:50

Todays Journal

June 2

I went out and did some gardening this morning. I had to meet up with Kenny to give him my old cell phone and some T-shirts that we got him. I got a call from the temp agency and had to go to work tonight at Loomis. I had to start at 5:30 and work till 2:30 in the morning. I think I am going to be a little tired tomorrow.

June 3

My back was sore last night from sitting that long. I got up and did my stretching exercises. Took Shirley to get her haircut. Then we went to pick up a few things I needed. We then went out to Fort Langley to look at the Antiques and to have lunch. We walked around for about 3 hours. It was such a beautiful day. I had to go to work again tonight. I got there and the girl I was temping for decided she would come in about 15 minutes after I started. So I worked for only 4 hours today.

June 4

I did not feel well this morning. I had to do some running around today. We are getting ready to go fishing in another week. We leave on Father's Day for two weeks. My sister phoned me yesterday to tell me about a little puppy out by her place and that it was exactly like my old dog Brittany. I am going to go out there and have a look at it. I might be coming home with a puppy. I have always had a dog. This is the longest that I have not had one. I don't think Dan really wants a dog at this time so I am trying to talk him into it. It was hot out today, I just love this weather. We went out for ice cream tonight.

June 5

Last night I woke up with muscle spasms in my back and right leg again. I did not feel well again today. We went grocery shopping and when I got there I felt sick and light headed. I took my beach chair to see if I could get it recovered. It's probably not worth it but you can't get this type of chair any more, so to me it's worth it. I had to drop off my timecard at Express. We got home around 3:00 and I sat in the sun for an hour. We are going to go for a walk after dinner. Tomorrow I think I am going out to Abbotsford to see the puppy without Dan.

Date:

10 Jun 2003

Time:

10:39:49

Todays Journal

June 6

My back was sore this morning. I did all my stretching exercises this morning. It usually takes me about 1 hr. to do them all. It was a beautiful day. I like it this hot. We went to look at the puppy tonight. She is so cute. We are undecided right now.

June 7

I did not sleep very much last night. I was thinking about the puppy. We are still undecided about it. Another beautiful day. We went to see the Italian Job. It was a good movie. I think we are going to look at the puppy again. I hope she is gone because if she isn't we will be coming home with her tomorrow.

June 8

We got up and put the boat rack on the truck. We are leaving next Sunday for holidays. We are going fishing. It is a long trip. We are going to look at the puppy again today - that means we are buying her. I think Dan really wants the puppy. Well, we have a new addition to our family now. She is so cute and tiny. We have not figured out a name yet. We did the rounds with her today and everyone thought she was adorable.

June 9

Now the fun part starts - the training. She is not going to be very happy tomorrow. She is getting her shots tomorrow. I am going to get my hair done tomorrow. Just in time to go away. Did not do too much today, just played with the puppy and went for walks. I think we are going to call her Tashia?

Date:

13 Jun 2003

Time:

14:46:49

Todays Journal

June 10

Did my stretching exercises this morning. I really don't think my back is going to get any better. It has been very sore and I can not sit for very long. Took Tasha to get her first shots. She whined in her kennel all the way there. I really do not think she liked her kennel at all but she has to get used to it. After her shots my sister wanted me to stop by so she could show the girls at work Tasha. I have a hair appointment this afternoon. Tasha played outside with my friend's dogs for the afternoon. It was so cute. My hair took about 4 hours. My back and hip was so sore from sitting that long. Tasha was good in her kennel on the way home. I missed lunch today because of my hair, so I was really hungry later on that night. I had two small slices of Pizza.

June 11

Had a doctors appointment first thing this morning. I had to get a refill on my prescription for my back. I pulled something in my arm the other day. My shin splints are driving me nuts now. I have rested them for at least two months now and they even hurt when I drive now. I had to get a new pair of shorts so I bought a size 14, got them home and they were way too big. I took them back and had to get a size 10. That's incredible and I still have a ways to go. We had a whole bunch of running around to do for our fishing trip. So much to do and not enought hours in a day.

June 12

Did my stretching first thing this morning. It was a task because the puppy was trying to play with me as I was exercising. I then took her outside with me so I could water the plants. I really don't think I am going to have a lot of plants left if she keeps on biting them. Tasha kept taking off under the fence so we fixed that really quick. We had some more running around to do for the fishing trip. Thats what I will be doing for the next few day to get ready to go. I can't wait. Our friends are coming also. It will be a lot of fun. I just love being outside and the weather to be hot.

Date:

15 Jun 2003

Time:

12:45:35

Todays Journal

June 13

I did all my stretching first thing this morning. In the afternoon I took Shirley shopping to find a pair of shorts. We did not find anything. She hated everything she saw. I took Tasha to get her nails clipped and the girl was very good with her. After dinner we started to pack everything into the trailer.

June 14

Tasha had me up at 2:30am, 5:00 am and 7:30 am this morning. I feel a little tired but I did all my exercises. I played out in the yard for an hour with her. Then I had to go and pick up my beach chair I was having recovered. Thank god he got it finished in time. He did a fabulous job on it. I came home and gave Tasha a bath. She does not like them at all. I had to give her deworming medication this afternoon and her breathing has not been very good tonight. We are going to keep an eye on her for awhile and if it does not improve we will take her to the vets. We are finally finished packing everything in the trailer. I can't wait to leave tomorrow. I am looking so forward to getting away and then the following week I'll be in Osoyoos for a week.

Date:

22 Jun 2003

Time:

21:56:52

Todays Journal

June 15

The puppy was sick all night long so we did not get much sleep at all. I think it was because she had her deworming medication yesterday. We left at about 6:00am and the first stop was Cache Creek. We let the dog out and I needed a cup of coffee. We had lunch in 100 Mile House. Dan and I had chicken burgers with fries. We got to the lake at 3:30pm and it took us a couple of hours to set up. It was such a lovely evening.

June 16

Tasha was up four times last night. She is probably trying to get used to the surrounding. Dan and I went out fishing and took the puppy. I don't think she really liked the boat at all. We came in and had lunch and a shower. It was not a great afternoon. Dan told me something about my husband that he should have kept to himself. I know this is going to put a real strain in our relationship and it is already strained enough. I am not having a good time at all and am very stressed at this point. I am having some wine and not talking to him or anyone right now because I am that upset right now.

June 17

Shirley and Dan went out fishing this morning. I stayed at the camp. I need some time by myself and it was very peaceful. Dan lost his favorite net because the fish they just caught was flipping around and hit the net. We went out later that day to try to find it but could not see it. Things are still a little tense with me.

June 18

We all went for a drive to MacKinnley lake today for a change of scenery. It took us a couple of hours to get there so we left at 7:00am in the morning. Dan and Steve have not been there for about 10 years. I did not like it very much. The bugs were so bad. I got eaten alive and came back with lots of bites. We got back to our camp around 5:00 and I went to the outhouse and got bit by a horsefly in the back of my leg and they take chunks out. What else could go wrong this camping trip. I really have to examine my relationship. It is getting to be very difficult with everything that's going on. I really hate people that are negative and just don't care about themselves.

June 19

Dan and Shirley went out fishing this morning. Shirley is Dan's mom. It's pretty bad when you like being alone better then being with others and believe me it was so peaceful. I spent time with Tasha. She is so funny but boy does she have attitude. I am cooking a roast dinner tonight for everyone. I really enjoy cooking. It is very soothing for me. I just wish people would leave me alone when I am cooking. I think this will be my last trip for awhile. I am very stressed out and can't wait to go home.

June 20

Woke up to rain this morning. It's going to be a lazy day today. I am freezing and can't get warm at all. We are packing up to go home tomorrow. The only thing I have done today is my crossword puzzles. I love camping and getting out of the city but not under these circumstances that I am in. I had a nap this afternoon. We will probably get up early and leave tomorrow morning.

June 21

First day of summer. Not much to talk about today just a lot of driving. We had lunch in Cache Creek and I had a hamburger with fries. We got home around 4:30 and started to unpack the truck and the trailer. Dan and I got a couple of movies and just relaxed this evening.

June 22

I could not believe it was raining this morning. I thought it was supposed to be nice today. We still have to clean the trailer and get the boat off the truck. Dan washed the boat and truck. I watched a movie that I had rented. The weather got better in the afternoon so I went and washed the inside of the trailer. We have another movie to watch this evening. Tomorrow I get weighed in and I was not very good last week at all.

Date:

26 Jun 2003

Time:

19:44:41

Todays Journal

June 23

I took Tasha for a long walk before I left to go and see Neaghn for that time again. I have lost in total now 20 pounds and I am feeling great. It has been a wonderful learning experience and I will take it with me the rest of my life. My life from this will be fuller, happier and, of course, healthier. I wasn't that good when I was away. I had a couple of glasses of wine, beer, and, of course, a hotdog. What's camping without a hotdog. I called it my freebie day. In the afternoon I went out and washed the trailer. I then decided to wash the car and the carport. Dan and I went over to my sister-laws to show them the puppy. They thought she was so cute. Tasha had a great time chasing Brock around the yard. We then left and went to Home Depot to get some wood so Dan can make a fence between the trailer and the other fence. My little escape artist figured that one out very quickly.

June 24

I slept in till 10:30 today - feeling very lazy. I really needed it because I have been getting up with the puppy through the night. I had breakfast then took Tasha for a walk. I then came home and cut the grass and then started weeding. I had lunch at 3:30 then started to do my stretching exercises. Then Tasha and I went for another walk. Tomorrow I have my step-sisters baby shower so I have to go and get a gift tonight.

June 25

It is such a beautiful day today. I am going to wax the trailer today and get a sun tan. It took me 4 hours to wax the trailer. My arms by the end just did not want to work. I have the baby shower tonight. I have to go and pick up my brother-in-laws' battery charger from Jason before I go to the shower. I have to drop Tasha off tomorrow at my sister's because she is going to watch her while we are away next week. They are going camping also, I am not to sure about leaving her.

June 26

I hardly slept last night. Tossed and turned all night long. I really haven't had time to do my stretching exercises these last few days, but I am hoping today I will. I have been going on a lot of walks and running. My back, I think, is slowly getting better. I just have to keep loosing weight and doing my AB's and stretching exercises. I have been eating all my meals. I have to go and drop off Tasha at my sister's today. I am very nervous about letting her go with them. I can't take her with me because where I go they do not allow dogs. My sister is very good, but I hope she will be alright with them. I am still trying to train her and she just started sleeping through the night. I have to go shopping and get some summer tops today. I think we are going out for dinner tonight.

Date:

28 Jun 2003

Time:

19:59:22

Todays Journal

June 27

I did my stretching and AB workout first thing this morning. I have a lot to do today before we leave for Osoyoos tomorrow. I hope it stays hot. After I finished my exercises, I went outside and watered all the flower baskets. It's such a beautiful day. I have an appointment with Carolyn at 1:30 for a wax. We still have to go shopping and pack up everything that we might need. I also have to go and pick up some new chairs to take with us. We never finished running around till 10:00 tonight and I still have to give Dan a haircut.

June 28

I watered all the baskets first thing this morning. I had to give Dan a ride to work so we can leave right when he gets off. I came home and puttered around for a couple of hours. I then went out and cut the grass and did some weeding. I am going to clean my bedroom (change the bed, dust and vacuum). I need to do my exercises right after that and then have a shower. I hope traffic isn't too bad tonight. I still am worried about my puppy. I hope she's doing alright. I can't wait to see the fireworks on Tuesday. They usually put on a great show in Osoyoos. It's going to be nice getting away with Dan and being alone for a change.

Date:

05 Jul 2003

Time:

20:11:38

Todays Journal

June 29

It's going to be a hot one that's for sure. We all tanned till about 2:00, then we all went to Tommy's for appetizers and drinks. I had a very hard time today seeing my old boat and all the memories that it brought back. I thought I would never see my boat again and here it is. I was not the only one affected by seeing it. I am so pissed at Norm for lying. We had a very bad windstorm. Three willow trees came down. As fast as the wind came it went.

June 30

We woke up and it's very windy out. That means it's going to last all day till about 5:00. It's going to be a good day for tanning. You won't feel the heat. It's so windy out that we are taking cover in the back behind the trailers. My brother-in-law pulled his boat out because it was starting to fill up with water. The waves are just pounding the boat and the bilge pump can't handle it. The guys went to help Mike pull out his boat and then decided to have a blender party in it on land. That was just a fun afternoon and so hilarious. I took pictures. It was just one big party all night.

July 1

It's going to be a beautiful day today. Some of our gang is going to miss the fireworks tonight because they have to go home today. It really sucks the holiday being on a Tuesday. The rest of us are going to the fireworks tonight by boat. It's been a lazy day just sitting around talking and drinking. Everyone went to the beer gardens in town but we stayed back and raked the beach from all the weeds that blow up on shore from the windstorm. On our way to the fireworks Mike saw two people in a dingy waving their paddles. We went to see if they were all right. It turns out that they left the public beach at 10:00 and it is now 9:30 in the evening. They were a long way from the public beach and someone might have hit them with their boat and not realized it at all because it was getting dark. They had no lifejackets and their raft was going flat. It's a good thing Mike and Dan saw them. The fireworks were excellent and lasted for 30 minutes. Osoyoos puts on an amazing show and the whole weekend is great. This whole weekend I have thought about Ian and how much I really miss him.

July 2

Everyone else is leaving today except Dan & I. We are staying till tomorrow and it's going to be nice having some alone time. We are going into town to look around and then to Oliver to look at a new wrap for my bathing suit. We just cleaned things up around the camp when we got back. We had a nice dinner and just relaxed tonight around the fire.

July 3

We packed up and were on the road at 10:00. There was an accident just outside of Chilliwack so it was a slow ride. We have to go and pick up Tasha at my sister's in Abbotsford. Today we went out for lunch and dinner. I have not done my exercises for the last 5 days. I have been some what good with my eating but did a lot of drinking. Back at it tomorrow.

July 4

I slept in till 10:00 today. It's been a hard 5 days of partying in Osoyoos. I got up and took the puppy for a walk and then went grocery shopping. Came home and had my snack. I've not done much today except for the walks with Tasha. I decided to have my lunch and then do my stretching exercises. After dinner we washed the truck from the trip. It was dirty.

July 5

I have been back in my routine for a couple of days now. It's amazing how much you get used to it. It felt great doing all my stretching exercises and all the walks again. I think we are going to take Tasha to Burnaby Lake for a long walk. This is going to be a challenge. When you put on her leash she puts it in her mouth and thinks she is taking herself for a walk.

Date:

09 Jul 2003

Time:

22:46:08

Todays Journal

July 6

Dan and I went to Home Depot first thing this morning. The rest of the day we spent cleaning the outside of the house, trimming the trees, mowing the grass, washing the back patio to get ready to paint. Washed all the windows inside and outside, so we were very busy. After dinner we took Tasha for a 3 km walk through Burnaby Lake - that was really nice.

July 7

My back was sore this morning when I got up. I did all my stretching exercises and I hope that makes it feel better. I had to take Shirley to get a birthday card at London Drugs this morning. I decided to pick up my Niece's birthday card today and I can drop it off to her tomorrow when I am at my brother's for dinner. We then went to Costco so I could pick up a few things for Dan. I have been doing a lot of walking with Tasha this last week. We go for at least 5 long walks a day and at least one run. She loves when someone runs and she can chase you.

July 8

I woke up with a headache today and my back is still sore. My medication ran out on Friday and I am seeing how I make out without it. I don't want to rely on the medication to get through the day for the back pain. Shirley has a haircut appointment this morning and after that I am going out to Mission to see my grandson. They were living in Poco and moved to Mission a couple of weeks ago. It's a long drive for me from Vancouver. My back was so sore and I was having muscle spasms from the drive. Sheldon is now crawling and walking. He is so precious. This little blonde hair, blue eyed bundle of joy. He's the spitting image of my son Kenny. I spent about 4 hours out there visiting. It was so nice to see him because I do not get to see him very much - maybe once a month if I am lucky. I decided that I was going to make my rounds on the way back into town. I was having dinner at my brother and sister-in-law's tonight. They live in Maple Ridge. My niece's birthday is next week and I decided to give Chelsea her birthday card this week while I was out there. I do not get to spend a lot of time with them anymore and we used to be so close. I really miss them a lot more then they will ever know. After my brother's, I went to my girlfriends to see her. She doesn't live too far from my brother's place. We had a very nice talk and were making plans for next week. Her daughter Ashley is turning 19 and all of us are getting together and taking her out. Boy, how time flies. That means that we are getting older. I never got home till 10:30. It was a very long day and I am very tired.

July 7

On Monday I sent an E-mail to Charmaine at the temp agency. This morning she called me about a temp job that might be coming up. That is great news. I did all my exercises this morning and then took Tasha for her walk. I am not going to do too much today. I will probably go and work in the yard for a bit. I will take Tasha for our jog in a while. I am going to go and give the back deck a quick sand and get ready to paint it. I have a few projects that I would like to get down this summer. I think once I paint the back porch, I would like to paint the doors in the house. They only have primer on them right now.

Date:

15 Jul 2003

Time:

00:13:31

Todays Journal

July 10

It's going to be a hot one today. Tasha and I went on our morning walk. We are taking her this afternoon to get her second shots. After Tasha's shots, we stopped by my sister-in-law's house and dropped off the cookie scoop that she bought from the Home & Gift party that Debbie had. On our way home we decided to take Tasha and get her nails and the front of her face clipped. She was not happy and yelped through the whole thing. You would think someone was trying to kill her. After dinner we had to give her a bath. She was not a happy camper today.

July 11

My back is still sore and is getting worse again. It has been in muscle spasms all day. I have not been doing too much today but resting. I did do all my exercises and my walks with Tasha.

July 12

I am not going to do any exercises today just go for walks. I am going to rest my back for a few days. I think I need to go back on my medication again. I really don't want to do that but I am waiting to see first if it will subside. I am just taking it easy today. We are going to rent movies tonight and stay at home.

July 13

I watched a movie this morning that I rented last night. We are supposed to go to my Mom's for dinner tonight. After lunch we are going out to Steve and Lisa's for a visit. Steve wants Dan to have a look at the camper to see what's wrong. We stayed for a few hours and had a nice visit. The two dogs played together the whole time. Dan wants to go over to Debbie and Scott's house to see how their bed in the trailer is designed. We took our trailer bedroom apart in Osoyoos and we would like to design the bed so it flips up. It's really great for storage under the bed. We arrived at my Mom's at 5:00 for dinner. It was such a good dinner. Steak, vegetables and potatoes. Tasha was so tired she slept the whole time we were there. Dan and I got home around 8:30 and wanted to watch the last movie we rented. My back was in such muscle spasms from sitting all day, that I could not find a comfortable position. I ended up just listening to the movie. I was in such pain that I needed to take something to get the spasms to stop and Dan rubbed my back with deep heat rub. It's going to be a long night.

July 14

Dan rubbed my back this morning with deep heat rub again. I am going to go and get my medication today. Enough is enough and I need to feel better. I am going to try and exercise today and I hope that will make it feel a little better. I am first going to go for a walk with Tasha and hopefully that will loosen it up a bit. I hope this will help in a couple of days.

July 15 

I have been doing really well with my exercising.  My back is starting to feel a bit better now.  Tasha and I went for a long walk this morning.  I have not really worked outside in the garden this last week because of my back.   

July 16 

I am meeting my girlfriend Debbie and her daughter Ashley for brunch today.  It's Ashley's 19th birthday and we are taking her to the Casino after brunch.  Ashley was so funny at the Casino. As soon as she was up $5.00 dollars she cashed in.  We are taking her to see the strippers on Saturday. There will be about 15 of us. That's going to be hilarious.  The place we are going to on Saturday is College Place in New Westminster and I have not been there for about 20 years.  That's when you know you are getting old. If they still have the phones, I am going to die. 

July 17 

I didn't get up till 9:30 because Tasha had us up at 4:00.  I think she ate too many flowers from the garden so she was sick.  I have been eating very well but today I had a cheeseburger and fries for lunch.  I was so full from lunch I needed a nap and because I was so tired from last night.  I am temping tomorrow at a place in Poco. It's right off the Mary Hill By Pass along the river.  I like doing my exercises in the afternoon rather than in the morning.  We are not going to do too much tonight. Dan's working on our bed for our trailer in Osoyoos.  My back is a little stiff tonight but I am going to put Deep Heat rub on it and take some Tylenol's before bed.  I really don't know how it will be sitting all day.  I know in the past my back can't take long periods of sitting.  I will find out tomorrow.

July 18 

I start a temp job today and had to be there at 8:00.  This was the longest day of my life.  I mostly just sat there for the whole day looking around.  It's a family owned business that makes Pasta and Sauces.  The person I report to is George. He's Italian from the old school.  Everything I did he wanted to check it over.  George left early for the day and managed to phone in four times..  His son works there also and he was hoping that his dad would not bug me very much – but, guess what.  They distribute all over Canada and to the high end places.   They would like me to stay on permanently but it is not challenging enough for me.  I need to e-mail the place I temp for to tell them this is a junior position and I would not be interested in a long-term position with them.  I will work next week but I will be leaving for Osoyoos next Saturday.  My back started getting sore in the morning from sitting and by the time I got home it was in spasms.  I went for a long walk to see if that would help.  I did not do my stretching exercises last night.  We just watched TV last night because we were so tired from the night before being up with the dog.  I wish she would sleep through the night. 

July 19 

I watered all the plants first thing this morning. That took me about an hour.  I took Tasha for a walk and then came home and went to Home Depot to get some more plants for the front yard.  I also had to pick up some paint samples to take over to my mom's house tomorrow.  I am going to be painting their house when they go on holidays in a couple of weeks.  I am allowed to paint the walls whatever I want to.  How much fun is that going to be!  I am taking the paint chips over there tomorrow to get some ideas of what colors I am going to be using.  I am not going to tell them what colors.  They will see when they get home from holidays.  I e-mailed Charmaine to let her know that I am not interested in the job I was at on Friday. I am going out tonight with my girlfriends.  All us girls are taking Ashley out for her 19th birthday.  It's going to be a lot of fun tonight.  I am going to take Tasha for another walk and then come home and do my exercises.  I just love summer with all the fresh fruit we get.  I have never eaten so much fruit in my life - that's because I never ate fruit period.  I am eating much healthier now than I ever had. 

July 20 

It was a late night.  I think all of us had a good time and Ashley was hilarious.  I am going to visit my mom today and pick the colors for their house.  I spent about 4 hours deciding on colors this afternoon.  I came home just in time to cook dinner (wonderful).  We did not do much tonight, just took Tasha for  her walks.  

July 21 

I took Tasha for her walk before I went to work.  I really don't know why they need a temp.  They are not that busy.  I just sit there for 4 to 5 hours and look at the walls.  I just love this heat but getting into the car after has been locked up all day is a killer.  I have so much to do this week before we leave for Osoyoos.  I am having my last assessment with John on Saturday.  Then I have to drop off the puppy at my Mom's before I leave for Osoyoos.  I have been doing my exercises when I get home from work.  We usually take Tasha on a couple of walks in the evening.   We had to go to the grocery store and get some more watermelon tonight.  It's so refreshing when it's this hot out.  

July 22 

Tasha was up from 2:00 till 4:30. She was so sick.  I am very tired this morning and it's going to be a long day.  These last few days at work have felt like the longest days of my life.  I came home and took Tasha on her normal walk and just after that I started to do my exercises but I had no zip.  I think at one point I nodded off during my exercises.  We both are so tired it's going to be a relaxing evening.  

July 23 

I think I have completed this part of my journey with you all.  I still have a little ways to go, but I have the tools to succeed.  I feel much  healthier and make healthier choices in my life.  Everyone says how young I look now and how much weight I have lost.  I tell them how I did it and to check out the web site.  It has been an amazing journey with you all and one that I am going to keep on for the rest of my life.  I think I have completed all my journals now.  I wish everyone all the best.  I would like to thank Phyllis and Neaghn for all the encouraging words that they sent me and to John for putting me on the right track for a healthier lifestyle.  I feel so wonderful.

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