September notes from Aunt Ann

Diana and I thoroughly enjoyed the Cirque du Soleil performance at Copp's recently, although we were quite high up, but with my opera glasses, brought the stars up close. I'm so glad I jumped on the opportunity to go with the gracious help of the lady I met working at the Board of Ed that day. Diana was very tired by the time we got back to her place. She said she is ready for bed by 9:30 p.m. as her energy level is zip by then; she starts work at 8 a.m.

Chelsey got all settled in on Saturday at U of Guelph, among many tears. Diana is fully aware that Chelsey will be fine but they are a very close knit family and this is a huge loss even though geographically, its only an hour away. The plan for her first semester is she'll catch the GO bus Thursday after class and meet Diana at McMaster, returning Monday morning in reverse. Zarkey's (her part time employer in Gr 11 & 12) have offered her Sunday shifts, 8 am to 5 pm so she's happy about having a little income.

I've texted and emailed her but no response. No doubt, lots going on. The 6 girls each have their own bedroom in the 'pod' with full kitchen, 1 full bathroom, 1 powder room and living room on the 12th floor. It has a balcony which is secured with 'no access allowed'; needless to say, Diana was pleased about that restriction. Chelsey opted out of the meal plan as she feels she can pick up groceries nearby; being quite adept in the kitchen, and save the $400/month cost. She has a little bar fridge in her bedroom.

Her program is Child, Youth and Family for her first year then she can branch out into her chosen field with teaching being a possibility after her BA. Apparently, the U of Guelph has one of the most highly recognized Psychology programs.....what do I know?????

Nicholas starting Gr 10 and hockey practices soon to begin. He's an avid player and Grandma loves attending his games; lots of excitement at his level.

Terri brought Brandon back to his Aunt's (his dad, Wayne's sister who lives almost next door to him). He is looking forward to his second year at McMaster and hopes to maintain his honours standing. Terri said he studied hard last year with little social life. It's paying off for him. She said he hopes to join a hockey team and play for fun with a few of his long time friends who live on the west mountain. Depending on his course load. I think he's majoring in Philosophy again. He hopes to return to Whitby next summer with the same employer. He worked nights zone-painting and enjoyed the challenge, plus he now has his driver's licence. (what a coincidence; your Grandpa inspected hundreds of miles of highway zone painting with Department of Highways as it was called then).

Terri plans to come for lunch next week so we'll have time to catch up.

Her youngest son, Mikael went off to Grade 5 yesterday morning, happy with his new duds and backpack. He gets the school bus almost in front of their house so that's a relief for Terri. Son Greg has found much happiness with his sweetheart, Stephanie.
Tuesday I worked at Truscott, Brown & Dwyer, my funeral home location (across from Gage Park) my switch day, with our new manager, Richard. He seems very nice and asked me to help him with an inventory assignment which had to be done that day; it all worked out well. New blood is a good thing; I've had a more comfortable experience working with a male manager; they just have a different approach and tend to not get 'chummy' with staff. I hope we work well together.

No word on the election training sessions yet; should be soon as the formal announcement has to happen before they call us. I hope I can do some data inputting this time.

I loved reading all the postings and beautiful photos of our family. When I figure out how to upload photos from my new digital camera, I'll join in that venue. Love to everyone. Aunt Ann