Friday, December 25, 2015

Happy Holidays!!



Hi!






I apologize in advance, as today's ramblings are going to be a bit of a write and run.



The holidays are here, and for some, that means loud revelry, many hungry bellies and laughter 'til you pee a little. For others, it means quiet reflection in serene company, tranquility abound. For still others, it means trudging through another time of year when it seems everyone is happy but you. Here you are, struggling to still be here.


No matter how you walk through this holiday season, keep in mind, good or bad, tranquil or sad, it is fleeting. On the other side of this bit of time, your normal will once again commence. Now, in these few days, seemingly more than any other, we get a bit of a suspension in time. On the threshold of a brand new year.


What will you do with yours? The possiblities are endless..................




Well folks, gotta run.................


Until next time.....



May everything you need come to you in droves, filling you with peace and joy.
May you enjoy at least a giggle or two, embrace the goofy, like a child with a newly gifted toy.

May you ring in the new year with optimism and gratitude, and a dash of excited anticipation.
May this next year fill you up, see you shine, bring you closer to your most delicious expectation.

May the good largely outweigh the bad, the happiness all but obliterate the sad, all but, for a little is good for the soul.
May you find light where shadows now lurk, change what you need to and can, for all else, reliquish control.




Happy Holidays!!!!!!!!!!!



www.margyreidbooks.com

Saturday, December 19, 2015

All I Can Do Is Pass It On...............................



Hi!




Well, we are closing in on Christmas................



Time for some impromptu road trips to get in a few visits with loved ones, to dish out hugs and do our best to spread a bit of cheer. The holidays can be a stressful time for some..........


If life is stressing you out right now I recommend one or all of the following................



Google toddlers telling jokes. There is no way you can be stressed while you watch that.

Binge watch funny movies....................

Crank on some music, loud enough to annoy neighbours, but quiet enough to keep them from calling the cops...........

Go to the mall and start an interpretive dance to the Christmas music...........just be prepared for very strange looks, as this is a flash mob of one, you're starting a new trend..............(it might help if you wear a few Christmas tree ornaments....just sayin')

Create something.........a new recipe, a craft, music, a poem, a piece of furniture, a scarf, a painting, whatever, it doesn't need to be great it, just needs to come from you.........


 Write a scathing letter to whomever or whatever you are stressed about, no holds barred. Use creative and colourful language if you wish.........Then burn it and turn it the f*#@k loose.


If none of the above has lifted your spirits try one more thing.  Go out and make some strangers genuinely smile. It will work, I promise. A clerk, a bus driver, a server, someone you see on the street, it doesn't matter. If you make their eyes smile, you'll feel in your soul. What have you got to lose?

I guess it kinda boils down to this.......poop storms are going to happen, and the chips are going to fall where they are meant to fall whether you get all worked up running around in circles or not. The difference in what you do will show once it passes. Will you be sweaty, dizzy and out of breath, or have your feet planted, head clear, ready for the rainbow which inevitably comes next............


 I definitely know that I don't know everything, but I do know enough to know that I know very little. All I can do is pass on what works for me, in the hopes that it might work for someone else.


And with that, my friends I will leave for another week, until then............



May you have the best time this holiday season, laugh a ton, eat a bunch, then laugh, and laugh some more.
May you squeeze those who need squeezin', feed those who need feedin', having good times galore.

May those who are travelling, do so with a angel by your side to keep you safe from harm.
May you stay free from all danger, as you get ever closer to those you love, the love, your lucky charm.

May your rainbow find you with at least some twinkle left in your eyes, some spark left in your step.
May your rainbow find you soon, rekindling your fire, your light, flooding anywhere darkness has crept.



Until next time!

www.margyreidbooks.com






































Saturday, December 12, 2015

Inside Out Wrapping With A Sharpie.........................


Hi!




Holy Crap! We are creeping right up on the middle of the month!



Yup, it won't be long  and all of my kids will, once again, be under the same roof, at least for a little while. I'll take it. I know how lucky I am that they all can, and do, make the effort to come home for Christmas.


Will it be a scene from a Norman Rockwell painting? Highly unlikely, as it is a "come as you are" occasion, which generally means if not jammies, something that is a close facsimile.

Will the gifts all be wrapped in ribbons and bows as though Martha Stewart herself did it with her own crafty hands? Yeah.....no. They will be wrapped. The names and Merry Christmas wishes will be written on little pieces of inside out wrapping paper using your basic sharpie. This will most definitely be done with a loving, if not so craftily gifted hand.

Will the meal be served on fine china, each dish plated with design? Ummmmm, gotta say nope on that one, as well.  The food will be killer, if I do say so myself, and plentiful, but it will be served buffet style and plated on the same mixture of Christmas and not so Christmas dishes that has been used for years.

Will there be someone to quietly gather the dishes and take them to the kitchen for cleaning? Well, there will be several someones, and I can guarantee it won't be quiet. It will, however, be fairly quick and efficient.  We've had a lot of practice in this particular department.


Will there be a lot of conversation, smart ass remarks, laughs, questionable humour, music, games, kids running around and other crazy shenanigans? Absofreakinlutely!


Wouldn't have it any other way.


Like I said, I completely get just how lucky I am.



As for the past few days?


Thankfully still very busy at the shop.


I wasn't able to get any writing in,.........dang it...........


There was much gratuitous grandbaby squeezing.............


Errands aplenty.............


Date night with my Honey................


Was able to get some baking in the freezer!!! Yay




As for the next few...............


Working at the shop..........


Do some Mom/Grandma errands...........


More baking................


Write!!!!!




Until next time........ with so many around the world displaced by the horrific acts of humankind.......



May you have the comfort of somewhere warm and safe to lay your head, sleep peacefully, deeply, your only dreams, soothing and sweet.
May the horror which chased you from your home fade quickly from memory, crushing terror in defeat.

May you find kindness in all new faces, arms open, ready to embrace.
May you find this, for it's what is right, regardless of religion or race.

May you find the side of humankind that lives up to being both, instead of it's evil twin.
May you find a life of happiness, in your new home, for if you do, we beat them, we all win.



Have a great week!


www.margyreidbooks.com















Saturday, December 5, 2015

Stress! Distress! What A Mess!



Hi!



As we all are running around, getting ready for the holidays, I would like to take a second to reach out to those who may be struggling right now. Some with health, some with happiness, some with the basic necessities of keeping flesh and bone together.

For a lot of people, the biggest stress about the holidays is planning meals, finding that special gift, and maybe earning a bit of extra cash to make it happen.

For some, the stresses are a lot stronger.

So maybe through your hustle and bustle, take special care to remember the power of kindness. It can go a long way.

Maybe, put a little extra in the food bank bin at your grocery store, maybe go through your closets and donate your old winter gear to good will, maybe simply smile, and mean it.

A little kindness has a tendency to ripple. Go forth and trigger ripples with gusto!



Sooooooo...........


It's been another interesting week...........


I managed to hide away for a couple of days and get some writing done! Yay!

Yup, I was able to get the initial draft of my next kid's book completed and was able to make a dent in the novel!

Hopefully, I'll be able to get back to them again soon!


Meanwhile, the remainder of the week was, thankfully, very busy at the shop. Month-end, a 25ft awning install, and other shenanigans......


Then, today, I was able to participate in a last minute (at least to me) trade show in Saskatoon. It was short, but sweet, and after a bit of a slow start, several more books found new homes.


As for the upcoming few days?

Working the shop............

Making time for some writing...........

Get some Christmas baking in the freezer...........

Squeeze some grandbabies............probably more than once.............



Until next time, I'll leave you with this wish................



May you find peace, make peace, gift peace, with everything that you do.
May what you do match what you need, bringing you ever closer to your truest you.

May you open up and allow yourself to accept the kindness others wish to bestow.
May you see the hand reaching for you needs no defense, it means only to caress your bruised and battered soul.

May any adversity you face be short-lived, the joy on the other side of it beckoning with brilliant light.
May working through your struggle strengthen you, stripping you of any sadness, leaving only delight.



Check out www.margyreidbooks.com for some great holiday gift ideas!































Saturday, November 28, 2015

Sneezing...........Toothpaste........Yeah, That Just Happened...............


Hi!






'Tis the season! Decorations are going up and having a grandkid hangout while parents are at a work related holiday gathering!


Some pizza, ice cream, popcorn, a Disney movie, and general goofiness were definitely in order.


So another busy week has passed and as a public service, I thought I would share some of the observations that, for me, have come to pass. You never know when one person's observations could save another's life, or at the very least some aggravation............


I guess the first thing is.........if at all possible, avoid sneezing when you are in the middle of brushing your teeth..............and we all know sneezes tend to come in threes............and I'm 49.............and have had four kids..................and this was in the morning.

So, I have to assume the mystery is completely gone now that my Honey walked in on me as toothpaste was spraying out of my nose, eyes watering profusely from the terrible burning, (3D White formula, no less), as I am simultaneously, desperately trying to undo the drawstring of my pajama pants before.......well you get the picture.


The second thing.................A strategic rewriting of certain "Frozen" song lyrics formulated to include specific bodily functions will make a seven year old boy laugh until he can't breathe. It's likely not completely appropriate, or appreciated, but, I'm the Grandma............ so I can...........


The third thing.................two year old little girls have the power to make grown men sit in the middle of the kitchen floor and eat toast. They wield this power mercilessly with the simple flash of big blue eyes and the utterance of a few simple words..........."Pleeeeeaaassse Pompa, sit on your bum!"


If this public service has helped even one person, it will have been worth it.


As for the upcoming days.............


Well, the next few will be spent writing..............My hubby will be participating in some tech training classes to stay current with all things RV. As he is doing so, I will be hunkered down in an undisclosed hotel room strapped to my laptop. (The recipient of the brain transplant mentioned in previous ramblings)


Then, it will be back to work at the shop, where things are humming right along....................


I also will be accompanying my daughter to a doc appointment (might just be finding out if this next little peanut is a girl or boy!)

I also am hoping to get a start on some Christmas baking.............



Well folks that about does it for another week........remember to check out www.margyreidbooks,com for some gift ideas!


Until next time I will leave you with this wish.................


May pleasant surprises fall at your feet, making your days pass brightly.
May you spend time with those you hold dear, smile big, squeeze tightly.

May you never miss the chance to smile at unfamiliar faces, for yours may be the only one they see.
May you never underestimate the power kindness carries, the power to lift heavy spirits, power without fee.

May you, as you scramble for the "perfect gifts," please keep in mind, one thing.
May you see there is no "perfect," only what you hope they'll like, albeit a rubber chicken or frosty bling.









www.margyreidbooks.com







......

Saturday, November 21, 2015

Santa Has His List, I Have Mine.........................




Hi!



Before I even begin, I want to assure all of you that I am fully aware of all of the tragedies in the world and the impact they have on all of mankind.

I also want you to know that I am absolutely conscious of the fact that the following is complete and utter frivolity, and totally meaningless in the grand scheme of things.

Now, I shall commence whining............


I am afraid I have some bad news.........


My laptop is on death's door......no no, shed no tears, for it owes me nothing. Yes, the "Z" is missing, the exclamation mark sticks a bit, and she has had to make a trip to the tech doctor a few times, but I thought she might just have another book or two left in her well seasoned keys.

But, as I tried to start her the other day, her screen remained lifeless.  She has had some signs of hesitation a few times in the past, but I thought we had worked through them.

No, this time, I believe she is done.

Thankfully, the tech doctor will be able to basically do a brain transplant into another laptop. He assures me there should be no permanent damage. Everything should be able to be retrieved, intact.

This laptop has provided countless hours of music, Djing weddings, parties, and anniversaries. It has carried me through the baby steps of writing my first few words of Lexi's Magic Clothes, to now, well into my fifth children's book and first novel.

She owes me nothing.

Writing on another laptop will feel kind of weird and unfamiliar. I am using a temporary stand in for tonight, and if it's any indication, it will take a bit to get used to. For instance, I just had to go back and fix 5 typos in that last sentence.

Okay, I'm done whining............



This week has been another busy one on all fronts.......


Gratefully, things are still hopping at the shop............

I took part in a mid-week trade show........

Did a bunch of running around with errands......

Got a bit of Christmas shopping done......

Then today, participated in another tradeshow about 2 hours from home.


The photos at the top of the page give a peek into the day.


Our journey was about an hour old, when the sun decided to join the party.......man, we live in a pretty spectacular place..........

Then, upon arrival, we were able to get set up just in time for the doors to open to the public......

The last photo is kind of special. I can't explain why I haven't done this before, and, I think I will try to make it a habit.  These are the names of most of the wee ones who will be on the receiving end of books purchased today.

Some will be opened over the Holidays, some will be read at bedtime tonight, yet others will be making their way to far off places, in shoe boxes, alongside other goodies, to be opened by some who otherwise, receive little.


From tragedy grows strength. From diversity grows wisdom. Maybe, with all that is going wrong in the world, right now we, as humankind, will learn to harvest these, and feast on peace.




As for the upcoming days........



I know for sure I will be going to work.....

I know I will be taking my laptop in for a brain trasplant.............



Other than that, I could get struck by lightning or win the lottery, it's a crap shoot, really...........



Oh, and write.........I know I will write............




Well folks that about does it for another week.............




Until next time............





May you find a giggle in the little things, allowing the absurd to tickle your funny bone.
May life's natural slaps of irony send laughter to your depths, whether with others, or alone.

May satire delight and not offend, as it's rarely intended to do so, though, your choice, as a comedy consumer.
May you find, though, a way to lighten your heart, enjoy the silly, rekindle your dampened sense of humour.

May you see the value in laughter, even in the throws of our darkest pain.
May you know we have nothing to lose with laughter, but everything to gain.



Until next time, check out www.margyreidbooks.com to tick a few names off of your Christmas list!






















Saturday, November 14, 2015

A Freakin' Care Bear Ninja!


Add caption
Hi!



Another week has passed. A week in which we had the privilege of witnessing a star being born, and were able to take part in our first Christmas Tradeshow of the season.

My niece, Hannah, as you can see, has a brilliant future as a one-woman band, if she so chooses. All that's left is to come up with a catchy name and start booking some shows!

It was also a bunch of fun sending some more books to their new homes at the tradeshow.  It's always so nice to meet so many new people.


Also, over the last few days there have been some more horrible acts of violence in different parts of the world.

It seems humanity has learned nothing from our past mistakes.

I know there are no simple solutions to this putrid darkness that appears to be slowly sucking the joy from our planet.

I know it won't be simple, but it does need to be. We can't give in or up. The darkness can't win.


It would be nice to see at least one week go by with no acts of terror, no senseless violence.

Until that can happen, until the powers that be can figure this out in some real way,  I will keep these newest victims in my thoughts, wishing them comfort. Wishing them some sense of peace, some way for them to feel safe again.

I hope our world leaders can come together without personal agenda, without ego, and fight for real solutions.  Lead. I hope.

For now, I feel a real need to fight off that abhorrent darkness by living in such a way that would really piss off the evil joy suckers.

I'll be squeezin' grand babies, evoking smiles wherever possible, wrestling out a giggle or two when I can, and smartassing a few who crave it.

I am going to be a veritable freakin' Care Bear Ninja!


The rest if my time, in the coming days will be spent working at the shop, attending another couple of trade shows, doing some writing, and maybe getting a bit if a start in Christmas baking.........


With that, my friends I will leave you for another week with this wish................

To the powers that be............



May you see your darkness fade, the shadows growing weak, their power frail, carrying no weight.
May the fear you invoke overtake you, your soul absorbing what you choose to perpetuate.

May you, in that moment, realize that fear dressed as hate can bring nothing but despair.
May you see, in that moment, this can stop, cease, desist, we as people can heal, repair.

May those with big voices speak wisely, leading with neither agenda nor glory in mind.
May those with big voices speak wisely, only then can we leave this darkness behind.


Until next time.......


www.margyreidbooks.com

















Friday, November 6, 2015

The Bits That Make Up Humanity...........


Hi!





So another full week has come and gone. As you can see, it involved some complicated fort construction and toddler snuggles. A great week!


I'm writing a bit early, this week, because the upcoming weekend will be spent hanging out with a few dear, lifetime friends.

Awesome people to have in my life, so grateful! So grateful for a hubby who supports the craziness!



Well, Halloween was a blast! Some amazing costumes once again, and ours weren't too shabby either, if I do say so myself. I will try and post a few pics to my Facebook page as soon as I can.

It's so cool to see people who, for the most part, live their day to day lives fairly far removed from artsy creativity, tap into their inner costume designer and then execute creations that would rival many movie set closets. It always blows my mind to see this level of talent put on display so nonchalantly.

Once again, world news is full of violence and desperation. But, I think, too, there is hope.

Even if the news shows tend to choose only to feature the violent, the scary, the ugliest side of humanity, we, also can choose. We can choose from where we get our information. We can choose to see the positive. It doesn't mean we bury our heads in the sand, pretending the dark doesn't exist, it simply means we choose to not let it overtake our lives.

It seems the source of the violence, the reasons for terror and bloodshed, all stem from wanting to be right.

One seems to think they know better than the other, their way is right, therefore, you must do things their way. Imposing personal beliefs on others has never worked. I wonder how long we will need to inhabit this earth, as human beings, before we really understand that.

If there is a judgement at the end of our time here on earth, I find it hard to believe that the being responsible for orchestrating a universe, creating the complexities of the brain, and deciding the colours of Autumn, will get hung up on whether or not you congregated in any particular building once a week, how you dressed, or the prayers and/or verses you could recite.


If there is a judgement at the end of our time on this earth, my belief is that it will have a whole lot more to do with how you walked through your life, how you treated others when nobody was watching, how much joy you brought to the party, and how much pain you took away.

Acceptance with no Exception. Passion with no Pretense. Embracing without Exclusion. Kindness without Conditions. Love without Fail. Protect the Vulnerable.

Nobody is "right" we are all simply the bits that make up humanity.



So..................


The time of year has come when I am going to try and snitch one, or maybe even two days a week to concentrate on writing. I really want to get my next munchkin book completed and released in the Spring. Time to get serious about it.

I'm hoping to make some real headway on the novel I'm working on, as well.....

Cross your fingers.........


As for the upcoming few days..........

Weekend with the girls!..........

Try and get shop stuff to a place that will allow "day snitching"...............

Get things ready for the Tradeshow in Rosetown on Saturday.............

Grandbaby snuggles...........

Write!!!!!!!!!!!!!



For now, my friends, I will leave you with this wish.............



With Remembrance Day (Nov.11) in Mind................



May your sacrifice be met with gratitude and care, may our appreciation saturate your soul.
May the open arms of your welcome home feel safe, feel good, feel right, complete, whole.

May you, if not yet returning, be brave, be safe, take care, we await your healthy return.
May the remainder of your tour be boring, uneventful, no real cause for any concern.

May you who served in years gone by, know our gratitude will never fade.
May you know we completely understand it's upon your backs our road to freedom was laid.

Thank you!


www.margyreidbooks.com














Friday, October 30, 2015

Happy Halloween....And Other Stuff!!!!!!




Hi!!!!


Ahhhhhhh a virgin pumpkin!  My mind goes crazy with ideas, pinterest pages flashing like a strobe, all kinds of beautiful jack-o-lanterns, sooooo many options............oh wait.........that person.....yeah the one that has the ability to follow through on those aesthetically pleasing "like" catching creations, yeah, that person......that person is not me.


It's not like I've never carved a pumpkin, because I definitely have. You don't run a dayhome for as long as I did without scooping your fair share of seeds.

Luckily, though, my carving skills never had to impress anyone beyond the age of safety scissors. Thankfully, things facebook and pinterest and instagram etc etc didn't exist yet.

Our carvings were simple, most of the fun was had scraping out the "guts" anyway..............


This week, I would like to send a message out to the first time mommies out there. The ones that are a few months in and are just now finding out how hard this really is.


It's okay......


It's okay to feel overwhelmed and inadequate. In fact, it's a rite of passage. Sometimes you are just so exhausted that all that's left to do is cry.  It's okay. It's okay to pick up your baby when he cries. He doesn't even know he has feet yet, I think manipulating a full grown adult is a bit beyond his capabilities. If you want to hold him while he sleeps...do it.

Some babies need extra cuddles, some don't. It's good to keep in mind that out of all the books about parenting, to swaddle, not to swaddle, to pick up or let cry, to breastfeed or not, out of all of those books written by brilliant people, your baby hasn't read even one.

Babies are little humans, as complex and diverse as their adult counterparts. They have individual needs, have individual quirks, have their own rhythm. Never forget the person that is most in tune with that rhythm is you. Their parent. Being a parent is hard enough on it's own. When you throw in the expectations of others, or hold yourself to some unrealistic, pinterest-  driven benchmark, you're simply being unkind to your baby's lifeline, adding unnecessary stress to an already exhausted situation.

It's okay..........meltdown, rock your baby with your tears running down your face, you wouldn't be the first and most definitely won't be the last. Just don't give up. If you need help, reach out. Ask. If you find the darkness wants to overtake the joy, please talk to someone. Anyone.

We are all in this together.......It's okay........


Well folks, it's been another crazy week, and as I sit here, my hubby is packing the equipment for our show tomorrow night.........


As we go off to entertain the ghouls and goblins, I'll leave you with this wish.........


May the weather hold, so your munchkins' costumes need not be covered by winter gear.
May the neighbours be generous, providing your dentist with his trip to Hawaii again this year.

May their little eyes shine with excitement and not just from the sugar rush.
May the crash be quick so you can "sort" their goodies, don't wake them....husssshhhhh.

May the sugar hang-over be brief, both yours and theirs.
May it pass quickly with minimum tummy aches, maximum shares.


Have a great one! Until next time please check out www.margyreidbooks.com









Saturday, October 24, 2015

You Know What? I'm Okay With That..............






As the chill in the air becomes tangible, trying to sneak it's way into the sleeves of your sweater, up your pant legs, and into the very pores of your skin, the fact that we are officially creeping up on the end of another year becomes very apparent.



We only have a couple of short months left in this the year 2015. Whatever will we do with it?!


So many ideas, so little time!



Maybe it will be easier to come up with a list of what I won't be doing. Not even a little bit......


1. I won't be applying for a job with Cirque du Soleil.......

2. I won't be hang gliding

3. I won't be crossing any rope bridges that span mountainous ravines.......

4. I won't be heading over to Kim and Kanye's for coffee............


Okay........... maybe it is easier to come up with a few things that I will be doing....



Before the year is up I would like to..............


Spend a day in bed watching Netflix, eating junk food and drinking wine...............................

Hang out with family for no particular reason.......................

Sleep like a teenager........................

Have a reason to get dressed to the nines.................

Put a smile on the faces of at least 100 strangers...............

Read a completely self-indulgent novel from start to finish without interruption,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,



I know these may not seem like lofty goals or be incredibly ambitious, but, you know what? I'm okay with that.


So much of life is about what you can get done and the time in which you can do it. Our lives are dictated by schedules and deadlines, commitments and guilt trips. We are bombarded on social media, tv, and in magazines, by messages of not being pretty enough, skinny enough, rich enough, not having enough, not doing enough, ............blah blah blah


I am not Martha Stewart with Bill Gates' money, Mother Theresa's patience and Beyonce's body.



And I'm okay with that.



I'm making a promise to myself, and I hope you do too. I promise not to be consumed by schedules and commitments. I will meet what is necessary, but won't allow them to smother me. I promise to give myself permission to goof off once in a while. I promise to cut myself some slack, and not hold myself to a higher standard than I hold everyone else.

I promise to be nice to me. And I'm okay with that.




Well, it's been, thankfully another busy week at the shop, and as you might have guessed, it was one driven by deadlines.


We are dealing with a ton of insurance claims at the moment....let's hear it for bureaucracy..where simple and direct is an unheard of concept....................


We managed to squeak in some rehearsal for our upcoming Halloween show.............

Put the finishing touches on our costumes...............

Squished a kidlet or three.............



As for the next few..............


It will be busy at the shop..................


Rehearse...........

Write.............

Pack and load up for the show.............


But, first........


It's off to the city to hang out with family for no particular reason,,,,,,,,,,,



And that, my friends about does it for another week.......


Until next time...........



May your gentle heart be kind to those you meet and to the one reflected in the mirror.
May the "to do" list that truly brings you closer to what you really want, become ever clearer.

May you see the only rules in life are to be kind, and be authentically you.
May you understand there will be no measure of treasure, only how gently you got through.

May you embrace the benefit of down time, the idleness, the peace.
May you let it in, take a breath, let the struggles go, release.



Until next time please check out my website www.margyreidbooks.com
























Saturday, October 17, 2015

Goodbye to a SuperHero Friend................................






Tonight, as I sit at my keyboard, my my heart is heavy, my fingers made of lead.


For today, we said a final farewell to this dear, goofy, generous, super-hero obsessed, beautiful soul. His name was Wes Funk. He was a writer, and tireless champion of the underdog. He was a selfless, zealous, fierce friend of everyone fortunate enough to meet him.

Although writing tonight is hard, I dare not not do it. For it would be a true insult to his memory to use him as a reason to keep words from the page.

As the hundreds of people began filling the venue for his service, I couldn't help but think that he likely had absolutely no idea how many lives he had actually touched. How many people were inspired and encouraged by him. How many truly, and sincerely, loved him.

The last thing Wes would want is for those left behind to mope around, crying, lamenting what might have been. But, he will just have to be patient, for it will take a little while for the world to become bright, once more.


We can never take for granted the gift that is our life on this Earth. The time between the sunsets.......



It's been a long, hard few days, so until next time, my friends, I'll leave you with this wish..............



Wes,


May you see you were a hero, just without the encumbered hindrance of a cape.
May you see the lives you touched, the dreams you helped take a tangible shape.

May you see you were a hero, to me, and many more.
May you see you were a hero, a hero, turned angel, evermore.


Until next week......................










 


Saturday, October 10, 2015

Turning Two and Turkey Time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!







Hi!




Happy Thanksgiving to all of my fellow Canucks and Happy Birthday to our little Laney!






The top photo depicts a scene oh so very common around here this time of year. The geese are on their way to a warmer climate. Smart geese.

Although, the powers that be are predicting a milder than normal winter for this neck of the woods, with less than normal snow fall...... I sure hope they're right........or at least close.............



The final two photos, as you can guess, depict our little peanut celebrating her second birthday. She is going to be such a sweet big sister...........


Two years, another reminder of how fast time flies by....................


Well, this week was another busy one.............


The shop is hopping .............so thankful.......


With the help of our daughter and a lady who is able to do magic with a needle and thread, the Halloween costumes are complete.....................


Did some rehearsing...............


Killed a dust bunny or five...............


Did a bit of writing..............


Had the tv on in the background and became well schooled in the trials and tribulations of the people we call "celebrities.".................................


Yeah, about that..............."celebrity" trials and tribulations........................


From what I gathered, it has been a busy week for Justin Bieber's nether regions. Kanye West's ego,  Donald Trump's hair, and Bill Cosby's misguided, misogynistic, past decisions.

First up..... the "Biebs"...............paparazzi got a picture of his junk while he was in Bora Bora..............blah blah blah...........he gets to be in Bora Bora. Not saying they have the right, but they follow him like a dog follows a snacking toddler, you'd think a guy like that would take a few precautions. Like not walking outside naked............just a thought..............


Then, Kanye..............ooh Kanye............says he wants to run for president in 2020.............not sure that would be great for America as a nation.......a president whose abilities seem to be somewhat limited to trying to convince others how great he is.......wait......Donald Trump...........


Ah yes.......Donald Trump............. he is a busy guy, but apparently not nearly as busy as his hair. I guess someone photoshopped his locks onto a few different, not so flattering images.............I really don't like when someone is singled out or picked on, but, sometimes this thing called Karma comes knocking at your door...............


Then, there is Mr. Cosby..................I'm not sure I have words to express the disappointment I feel. Of course, I don't know the man, but somehow I feel a loss for the man I thought he was. My heart hurts for the women who have stepped forward, they have nothing to gain by telling their stories. No one would volunteer for the scorn and scrutiny they have endured without cause. It saddens me further to know that the only reason a light has been thrown on the case is because of what he does for a living. So many still creep in the dark, faces unfamiliar, names unknown. Not famous, but never forgotten,




As for the days ahead....................


Do some cooking for our kids coming home for Thanksgiving..............


The shop will be busy............................


Rehearse for our Halloween show............


Squeeze grandbabies.......................


Write!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



Well that about does it for another week. Until next time, I'll leave you with this wish...............




May your meal be greeted by grateful bellies, your pies greeted by grins.
May your house be full of hugs and giggles, catching up, and board game wins.

May the gratitude felt on this day of giving, remain throughout the months to come.
May we not take for granted, anything, for the lives we have are but dreams for some.

May the sun set upon you and yours, having graced you with an incredible day.
May the sun rise then, to find you still smiling, great memories to help carry you through life's fray.




Until next time............



www.margyreidbooks.com














  











Saturday, October 3, 2015

Fute Poops and Politics.....................................


Hi!




Well, if you reside in North America, you, whether you like it or not. have been bombarded with politics.


Here at home, in the Great White North, we are having an election later this month. Yes, I believe a voter needs to be informed about the platforms on which each candidate is running. Yes, I believe we should be informed. Informed being the operative word. I'm not sure if all of the ads on tv, and on the Internet which are overwhelmingly abundant with presumed shortcomings of opponents and the apparent weak foundations on which their platforms are built, can be considered real information.

I guess I wish they would concentrate more on giving clear, concise, truthful, real information on what they are about. They, themselves. No bashing, no name calling, no bull.

I wonder if that will ever happen?


Then, when you take a trip a bit to the south you get more of the same, only on a bigger scale. They aren't even voting for another full year, but the mudslinging has already kicked into high gear.

It seems like it's boiling down to whomever can throw the best mud wins....I'm not convinced that talent makes a good leader.................


For my part, I will become as informed as I can, and make a choice based on whatever remnants of real information I can scrape off of the floor of the mudpit. Then, just hope beyond hope that with whomever wins, the country and it's citizens' well-being at least makes the top ten on their to-do list.


On a lighter note.................



Just in case you needed a reminder...............toddlers are awesome............


When asked what they would like to have for breakfast:

Laney (2)- Fute Poops (Fruit loops)
Jakey (3)- A Lego (Bagel)

Playing hide and seek:


Jake is counting: one....two....fee......four......fie........sick.........sewen.......q........nine.....twelveteen..........ready or not!!!!!!!


Playing with our pet:

Laney: Awwwee kitty cuuuute, need nummy! And this oh so gentle little soul then proceeds to try and drag our 11 year old cat across the kitchen to his food and water bowls, by his tail. He is not amused.

Laney: Kitty...baby......Now, swaddling an aggravated old cat is not a task to be taken on by just anyone. It takes both patience and perseverance. The cat hasn't the former and the toddler hasn't the latter. Win/win?..... We'll call it a draw.


Yep..........awesome................





Well, this past week has been another busy one...............


Halloween costumes are pretty much figured out....................

Work has been happily hoppin' along.................

Some dust bunnies were sent to a better place..........

The laundry monster said uncle....it was faint, but I swear I heard it......



As for the upcoming week.........

We will be setting up sound equipment at the shop to do some rehearsing.............

Spend the weekend at home........................

It will be another busy one at the shop........................

WRITE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh.......and squeeze some munchkins, of course...............



Well folks that's about it for this time around, until next time, I'll leave you with this wish..........




May your choices lead you to places you truly want to go, whether you chase excitement, serenity or both.
May they take you on a journey filled with happiness, light and joy, minimal struggle, soulful growth.

May you allow yourself to be wonderful, full of wonder, ever discovering new things that delight and tickle your soul.
May you have faith that all will work out as it should, you make choices, but the outcome is always beyond your control.

May you, when choices seem overwhelming, and you feel all you do is jump through hoops,
May you take that time to just say "screw it", for now, count to q, and eat a giant bowl of fute poops.



Until next time........


www.margyreidbooks.com

















Saturday, September 26, 2015

Those "Pinch Me" Moments......................


Hi!



Well, another whirlwind week has passed.




We ended last week and began this one, with a weekend filled to the brim with family, friends, a lot of laughs, and a few "pinch me" moments.



Saturday was our niece's wedding. It was a gorgeous day, she, of course, looked like an angel, and both she and her new hubby were simply beaming with joy all day long.  It was a great time to catch up with some family and friends, and a great opportunity to meet the family that has now joined ours. I'm very happy to say that they seem like fantastic people and love our girl like their own. Couldn't ask for more.

Then, it was up bright and early on Sunday to make the 2 hour drive to Saskatoon to the "Word On The Street Festival."

If a person could have sent an order in to Mother Nature for a perfect day, you couldn't have done better than the one we received.

Warm, but not hot, a bit of a breeze, but not crazy, sunny, but, not blindingly so. It was awesome. This, is where the pinch me moments tend to happen.

There I am...... me. Just me, Margy, that grew up on the farm, got married, raised babies, very...... ordinary....... me.

People come by, some to buy books, some to chat, some to blow my mind with such warm feedback about my books that it's difficult for me to hold it together.

"Pinch me" moments............. they still hit in a big way.  This is what I get to do. This is real. These people actually read books that I have written to their babies at bedtime. They are pulling things from "Everyday Wishes" that have actually helped them in a real way. It humbly fills me with such gratitude, and helps me to know that I am doing what I am supposed to be doing, heading in the right direction.


Who knows where this journey will lead? The possibilities are endless. I can't help but wonder sometimes...........what if I hadn't taken that first step. What if I had successfully talked myself out of doing this. What if I hadn't listened to my hubby's encouragement.

I'm so grateful to be looking at the "what ifs" from this side of the looking glass. The "what ifs" from the other side would have been a lot harder to live with.


The rest of the week has completely flown by. We continue to be, and gratefully so, very busy at the shop.  We are starting to see, first hand, some of the damage dealt out by the storms that took place over the last few months.

Crazy winds, hail and rain. Mother Nature was definitely in a bad mood a few times, this Summer.


As for the next little while..........


It will be busy at the shop, for sure..............

Make time for some writing..............

Work on getting our song books updated for upcoming shows..........

Squeeze some munchkins................



Well, my friends, that about does it for another week.....until next time, I'll leave you with this wish......



May your life include some "pinch me" moments, moments saturated in surreal bliss.
May you, in those moments, really let it in, for you, my friend, more than deserve this.

May new adventures fall at your feet, be brave, be confident, choose what is most appealing.
May a fantastic time be had along the journey, leaving you joyfully breathless, blissfully reeling.

May you, as you travel, keep in mind, the destination is never the real goal.
May you see that it's how you get there that builds and fills your life, brings you joy, makes you whole.


Until next time, check out www.margyreidbooks.com



























Friday, September 18, 2015

May Your Soul Take Flight................................


Hi!



I guess I just don't know where to begin..................................



In the past week there was a little girl in the news. She, 2 years old, with bright, mischievous eyes, and a smile....oh, what a smile.... she was missing.

The reason she was on the news was because she had been taken from her home in the middle of the night.  Her daddy was found later, in the home, murdered.

An amber alert hit the airwaves, It seemed like the whole world was searching for her.....there was hope......

As I was laying in bed that night, the news of the discovery of her tiny lifeless body hit.

I didn't personally know this child, nor her surviving family, but for some reason the news of her death, the sudden absence of the hope she might be ok, hit me like a ton of bricks.

I wept. I sobbed for the terror her last moments must have been. A tiny defenseless angel in the hands of a monster. Every nightmare coming to life.

What kind of an animal does that? How broken does a human have to be to justify such actions in his own mind?

I will grieve for this little angel, her Daddy, and her family. My heart breaks for them. I can't even pretend to understand the level of their pain. All I can do is cry with them, and hope for anything even remotely resembling justice, for none really exists.

Hug your babies, no matter how big or how old. Make the very most of your time between the sunsets. The way you experience that time can change so quickly.


Speaking of hugs, they will be plentiful this weekend, as life and time marches and we try to focus on happier things.


First, tomorrow, our niece gets married. It's going to be an incredible celebration of love and family. There will be a lot of dancing, a ton of laughs, and many, many hugs, guaranteed.

Then, on Sunday is Saskatoon's "Word On The Street" Festival! There will be bunch of people out, a great variety of vendors and guests, and it's looking like Mother Nature is going to cooperate very nicely, We will be hanging out downtown from 10:30 - 5, in front of the library, come on down and say hi!

Well folks, I hate to write and run, but I kind of have to..........


Until next time I'll leave you with this wish.................



May your soul take flight, leaving behind all pain, any fear.
May you be forever in your Daddy's arms, held close, so dear.

May we take the steps to fix our world, catching evil before it strikes.
May we do a better job of protecting our innocents, they look to us, these wee tykes.

May we hold our babies close, yet find the balance to let them grow.
May we create a better place for them, one of peace, kindness, one we can proudly bestow.


Meanwhile................. www.margyreidbooks.com





Saturday, September 12, 2015

Looks Like Fall Has Fallen Upon Us............................................


Hi!



Well, another full and busy week has come and gone.




It looks like summer is officially over. Leaves are turning, combines are humming, kids are in full swing, back at school.



Although it is always sad to see the days get shorter, it's equally as exciting to see what the the next season will bring.

Many people close to me are beginning new seasons.  Changes in career, moving, heading back school to further their secondary educations, having more babies....................

It's going to be an incredible time.

Sometimes, it's pretty easy to get caught up in the tragedies of the world. There never seems to be a shortage of reports depicting just how awful we, as human beings, can be to each other.

I firmly believe we need to stay informed about the society we are building, but I guess I just wish the good that I see first hand, on a daily basis, received a little more camera time. I realize these types of stories likely won't bring the ratings to news shows that horror driven ones do, but they would be nice to hear.

We aren't all terrorists, or war mongers who love to prey on the vulnerability of others. We aren't all politicians, vying for attention, desperate for votes. We aren't all drug lords or gang bangers, or corrupt business moguls.

No.

Mostly, we are just people, People walking all corners of this earth, trying to live our lives, pay our bills, keep a roof over our heads, creating memories and moments that count with those that matter most to us. We are people. Changing jobs,  moving, furthering education, having babies.........

If you are shown only shadows, it becomes easier to believe the light is disappearing.

It's not..... I see it every day in the eyes of my grandbabies. I see it in kind actions of total strangers. I see it in the smile of the bus driver and the gentle hand of a parent. I see it in the kind, encouraging words of a teacher. I see it......everywhere.

Yes, the shadows are there and we need to remain aware, but they are only shadows. Taking up negative space. Shadows only grow if we dim the light. Don't dim your light. The world needs all it can get.


As for the past few days?


Well, it was, thankfully, another busy one at the shop.........

Received the final information about the "Word On The Street" Festival which takes place next Sunday..............


Taught some new and completely useless, silly things to some grandbabies..................


Assaulted the laundry monster......he's not quite gone.....but he's on the ropes............

Aggravated a couple of dust bunnies.........................


Spent a day hanging out with my sister and brother-in-law,  and had a great time...........



As for the upcoming week?..........


You guessed it, another busy one at the shop...........

Work,.....work......and work some more............

So we can try and take off a bit early on Friday to attend our niece's wedding! Yay!

Sunday will be spent at the Word On The Street Festival in Saskatoon!

Blog will likely have to be posted a bit early, next time around, I'll keep you posted.........




For now, it's time to say good night.........................

Until next time I'll leave you with this wish.................





May you follow your heart to it's fullest desire, ever reaching for the stars.
May your dreams come to fruition, without robbing joy or leaving scars.

May your dreams and your heart's desire be deeply known to you as one in the same.
May you see that they can differ, one feeding the soul, the other, the ego, which lays claim?

May you, as you enter this new season, leave behind no regrets, as do-overs don't exist.
May it bring nothing but good things, happiness and peace, leaving no "I should haves" on your bucket list.












Saturday, September 5, 2015

Sometimes The Nudge Becomes A Slap..............................




Hi!


In these photos you will notice a few things. Two different kids. One is a bit older. One has chosen feet first, the other head first. One, eyes tightly shut, the other eyes wide open, even if a bit apprehensive.
They are both adorable, brave little humans, trying something out for the first time, each, with their own approach. Making choices from their own perspective.


Sometimes, you have to close your eyes and hope for the best. Sometimes, it's better to dive in head first, eyes open, even if you aren't completely confident as to what the outcome will be.

Sometimes, a person can get stuck. Overwhelmed. Not knowing what to do, consequently doing nothing. I have found that in these situations, life has a tendency to nudge you in the direction in which you are meant to proceed.

It will nudge, and if you don't catch on, it will nudge harder. If the hint isn't taken, you then get a poke in the ribs. Eventually, if you ignore, or remain oblivious to nudges and hints, and pokes, most times, something bigger will slap you upside the head that you can't possibly miss.

It may take the form of illness or injury. Physically forcing you in a different direction, forcing a different perspective. It may come as a career opportunity seemingly out of nowhere. It may simply show up as repeated struggle and/or perpetual unhappiness, then once the hint has been taken and direction corrected, everything just gets easier.

Personally, I have experienced a few of these proverbial slaps upside the head. I've learned to pay better attention to the nudges. Less pain, less stress.




So, this week has been another great and busy one!


Work is hopping at the shop...............

Got booked for a Halloween karaoke show............

Had a play date with my bestie...............

Participated in a last minute Farmer's Market..........

AAaaaannnnd had a great visit with family we don't see nearly enough!



As for the upcoming days...............


Work at the shop...............

Squeeze some grandbabies.........................

Write!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!





Well, that about does it for another week....until next time, I'll leave you with this wish.............




May life's struggles be made ever sweet through choices dictated by your heart's most authentic desire.
May dilemmas become delight, your sadness, joy; indifference, great passion; may your fears turn into fire.

May the shadows of  the unknown be dashed by the belief that all will turn out as it should.
May it be accepted that "as it should" is not always synonymous with "as we wanted" or "as we would,"

May you find peace in the knowledge that it's simply not our job to have everything figured out.
May you find happiness in building your best life with the materials at hand, for that's what it's really all about.



Until next time..................


www.margyreidbooks.com











































Sunday, August 30, 2015

No Superman, No Batman, No Wonder Woman, Oh My!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Hi!





These two little ones are still  in the pre-school demographic, but a bunch of post-toddlers from this part of the world will be starting the next school year very soon, in fact some already have.


This time of year, the subject of dress codes, and school policies come, once again to the forefront.


Some schools have pretty strict rules about sleeves, or lack thereof, length of skirts and/or shorts, logos and the like.

I find it fascinating.


Dressing appropriately for different situations is a skill. I mean, you don't wear jeans to a black tie event, and you don't wear a toga to church. As far as dress "codes" go? I guess I'm not convinced that it's really in the school's realm of authority to dictate.

I don't really understand the whole tank top or sun dress thing. How is dressing according to the weather endangering fellow students' education?  If a sleeveless arm, or a shoulder covered only by a strap is so disruptive and distracting, I think the energy of the school staff would be much better spent working with those so easily distracted.

Have we really gotten to a place in our society where we have  hyper-sexualized school aged kids to the point that we find it necessary for our schools to police their clothing to this extent? Bare arms, for cryin' out loud?

Kids will push limits. It's their job. Even as teenagers, their brains aren't completely developed. Their impulse control and decision making skills are not fully there. That's why they have parents/guardians.

 As a parent/guardian, you carry the cash, therefore you have a say in what gets purchased. If they don't own shorts that could double as a belt, they can't wear said shorts. They buy it with their own money? You are still the parent, as such, it is your job to help with, and guide decisions.

Kids are figuring things out. They need some freedom to do so properly. Their choices in clothes is just one way they dig into the process. It's balance, just like anything else. They can sport the purple hair, but the booty shorts stay in the store. Balance.

I guess I don't know if it is truly in the best interest of the children, to have their attire dictated by people who form policies and run educational institutions. I think I'd rather leave it in the very capable hands of the people that have been loving, caring and providing for them since they were born.

The schools seem to be taking it to a whole new level, this year. I saw a story on the news in which a child was sent home with a note saying that her "Wonder Woman" lunch kit would not be welcome in the school. They won't allow anything with action heroes on it, stating they believe it promotes violence.

I fail to see how a woman who spins at lightning speed to change into a red, blue and gold shiny outfit; that flies around in an invisible helicopter and whose weapon of choice is a golden lasso, and who uses that lasso only for the good of mankind, fosters violence.

So, it seems that their thought, the strategy of these schools is, to make girls believe that they, and what they wear, are responsible for male response.  That somehow males of our species are incapable of being responsible for their own actions and reactions. I'm not sure that is such a good idea, for any gender.

They want a school devoid of Wonder Woman, Superman, Batman and all of their superhero friends. Because superheroes promote or invoke violence..................all of a sudden.

These characters have been around for generations. Have we somehow suddenly sprouted a generation incapable of imagination and so incredibly thirsty for violence? Do they have no distinction between reality and story? If that is the case, then, by all means, we need to correct that. If that is an actual problem, I don't think it will be remedied by banning a Wonder Woman lunch kit, or a Superman backpack.

If violence is such an issue with our young people, then banning superheroes won't fix that problem any more than forcing sleeves.

Maybe we should put more emphasis on teaching kindness, empathy and respect so these kids can enjoy each other's company while they share from their Wonder Woman lunch kits, tank tops and all.


Anywhooooooooooooo................................................................



It's been another full week...........



Well, we played for our last scheduled wedding of the year......Thank you to all of this year's fantastic newlyweds for allowing us to be a part of your special day!

Had to buy a new light for our shows, as one of our lasers crapped out while we were setting up......thankfully the store where we buy the majority of our equipment was open! Whew!

It was, thankfully, another busy one at the shop...........


Killed some dust bunnies, and beat the crap out the laundry monster.............


Got to put in some quality time with the munchkin crowd................


Did a bit of writing......


As for the upcoming week?...............


Month end and fixin' trailers at the shop.............


Squeeze some kidlins...............


Enjoy the last of the Summer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



With "back to school" in mind, I'll leave you with this wish.............



May the first days back in your school routine go smoothly, nothing forgotten, nothing left behind.
May the bus be on time, kids at the ready...... milk on her nose? Socks don't match??? Nevermind.

May you, if sending off your first, hide your tears til their gone, for your baby is a baby no more.
May you, if this is your last, hide your tears, yes, this is the last, you know all that's in store.

May you take in stride the homework notes, permission slips, strange requests and yes you'd love to be a field trip volunteer.
May you try to remember these are great days, there are likely will be screw ups, and there are only another 210 more school days until the next Summer break is here!!!


Happy first days of school!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Until next time.............


www.margyreidbooks.com




























Friday, August 21, 2015

Working On Depth Perception.......................


Hi,



This little one is growing leaps and bounds right before our eyes. She is talking, trying to tell jokes, playing pretend, exploring her abilities and discovering limitations. She is, however, still working on depth perception, and determining what the cat will and will not put up with as far as being "fed" by hand, and being covered up with blankies.

I guess we all need to get hissed at once in a while when we go too far.


Speaking of which....................



I have recently heard in the news, as we all have, about this Ashley Madison website and the fact it was hacked and a bunch of the client info was put out there for all of the world to see.



First, I just think it's sad that sites like this exist, let alone accumulate such a vast clientele.  I just feel that if you want to be married, then you should be married. Period. If you don't want to be married, you shouldn't be. But, I think it only fair to let your spouse be the first to know.

My heart goes out to the spouses and families of those who are now forcibly famous, with their dirty undies waving on the line, for all to see, inspect, and judge.

The hurt would be palpable. To be so completely disrespected and betrayed by the one you trust most in the world, the one person who vowed to have your back no matter what life threw at you. Then, to have that betrayal made so public. It would be devastating.

I'm in no position to judge anybody, for perfection is not even on the radar of my self-perception. It's just sad.

What makes a person go to those sites, fill out the info and act on it? It takes thought, time, and there would be that moment before the final click, before entering credit card info, before hitting submit, to change your mind, thinking of the depth of the consequences. This, I can say with confidence, as I've done it a ton where shoes and handbags are involved.

It just makes me sad. I guess some adults still have trouble with depth perception and knowing what will and will not be put up with.

If you're unhappy, unfulfilled, bored, feeling neglected, unsatisfied..........talk. Talk to your spouse. Reconnect. Find that "something" that drew you to them in the first place. Be the things you'd love your spouse to be. Be thoughtful, attentive, romantic, funny, hold hands, touch more, kiss more.....whatever you are missing......you will be amazed how quickly it will be reflected back in their actions.

I may not be a genius, but I am smart enough to know that I know very little. However, I have gathered a bit of intel being happily married to the love of my life for 29 years.

*You can work anything out if you really want to..........
*Quitting on each other is never an option...........
*Don't fight in circles............
*NEVER sink to name calling...............
* Don't keep score..........
*TALK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!..........
*Be each other's greatest ally, the world provides enough haters.................



Well, time to, once again, dismount from my soap box................




This week has been another busy one........

Busy busy at the shop......it's awesome.........

Got everything ready to DJ the wedding this weekend.............

Didn't get much writing in..........


I can always tell when I'm not getting enough writing time in...........my imagination starts kicking into overdrive while I sleep.....

I spent one restless night trying to DJ our Prime Minister's daughter's wedding. It was a horrible venue. The room was tiny and slathered in sea foam green and brown, with gigantic, dusty, plastic foliage in every corner. The wait staff had sea foam and egg plant fortrell (other kids of the 70's will know what I'm talking about) uniforms that were cut from some long lost fifties diner pattern, and they were NOT happy to be there.

The power connections in this place were atrocious. We were having to run miles of cable in every direction.

This poor bride was trying so hard to make things fit into her "black tie" theme.........

I just kept thinking........he's the Prime Minister, for cryin' in the sink, couldn't he have sprung for a bit of a nicer place for his daughter to get married?


Anyway............


So as to what's in store for the next little while............


Playing for a wedding this weekend! (In a nice place, with good power......no sea foam)

The shop will be hopping................

Write..........................

Squish some toddlers........................


Well, that about does it for another week................


Until then I'll leave you with this wish....................





May your love grow stronger as you grow older, deepening as life rolls by.
May your history become an epic tale, one of romance and heroism, only happy tears to cry.

May you brave every storm, holding strong, anchored in devotion and trust.
May you reach only for each other for comfort, for love, for romance, for lust.

May you rediscover the longing, the love, the desire to stay true.
May you be forever happily in love with the one to whom you said "I do."


Until next time.........

www.margyreidbooks.com