#happy long weekend ontario

[haycartsflowercarts]

Companies known for running shoes making actual shoes for running challenge

[oldshowbiz]

American fans of SCTV probably had no idea they were watching a parody of a long-running Canadian series.

Polka Time starring Walter Ostanek aired weekend afternoons on independent stations across Canada from 1981 until 1995. It originated from CKCO Television in Kitchener, Ontario.

The first SCTV sketch featuring John Candy and Eugene Levy as the Shmenge Brothers - the Happy Wanderers - aired during SCTV's 4th Season, in May 1982.

[fatehbaz]

The SAWP is a temporary labour program that brings foreign workers to Canada for periods between six weeks and eight months annually [...], paving the way for the recruitment of Jamaican workers as well as workers from other Caribbean countries like Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados [beginning] in 1968. [...] The SAWP has been a resounding success for Canadian growers because offshore indentured workers enable agribusiness to expand and secure large profits. Being indentured means that migrant farm workers are bound to specific employers by contractual agreements [...]. First, they are legally prevented from unionizing. [...] Additionally, because they are bound to specific employers, they must ensure that the employer is happy with them [...]. For instance, migrant farm workers are forced to agree to growers’ requests for long working hours, labour through the weekend, suppress complaints and avoid conflicts, if they want to stay out of “trouble” [...]. In “Canada’s Creeping Economic Apartheid”, Grace Galabuzi shows that the Canadian Government’s immigration policy is, in reality, a labour market immigration policy [...].

[Text by: Julie Ann McCausland. "Racial Capitalism, Slavery, Labour Regimes and Exploitation in the Canadian Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program". Caribbean Quilt Volume 5. 2020. Paragraph contractions added by me.]

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A big finding that came out of the oral history interviews was a much richer tapestry of worker protest than has previously been documented. Speaking with workers – including former workers back in their home countries of Jamaica and Barbados – allowed me to hear the types of stories that often don’t make it into archives or newspapers. Interviewees told me stories about wildcat strikes, about negotiating conditions with employers, and also about protesting their home governments’ role in organizing the migrant labour program. [...] [T]hings did not have to be this way; our current world was anything but inevitable. [...] [But] economic forces transformed tobacco farming (and agriculture writ large), [...] leaving mega-operations in their wake. [...] [L]arge operations could afford [...] bringing in foreign guestworkers. The attraction of foreign workers was not due to labour shortages, but instead in their much higher degree of exploitability, given the strict nature of their contracts and the economic compulsion under which they pursued overseas migrant labour. [...] Ontario’s tobacco belt (located in between Hamilton and London, on the north shore of Lake Erie), was from the 1920s to 1980s one the most profitable sectors in Canadian agriculture and the epicentre of migrant labour in the country [...]. In most years, upwards of 25,000 workers were needed to bring in the crop. [...]

[The words of Edward Dunsworth. Text is a transcript of Dunsworth's responses in an interview conducted and transcribed by Andria Caputo. 'Faculty Publication Spotlight: Ed Dunsworth's "Harvesting Labour"'. Published online at McGill Faculty of Arts. 15 December 2022. At: mcgill.ca/arts/article/faculty-publication-spotlight-ed-dunsworths-harvesting-labour. Some paragraph breaks/contractions added by me.]

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Jamaican agricultural workers say they face conditions akin to “systematic slavery” on Canadian farms, as they call on Jamaica to address systemic problems in a decades-old, migrant labour programme in Canada. In a letter sent to Jamaica’s minister of labour and social security earlier this month [August 2022], workers [...] said they have been “treated like mules” on two farms in Ontario, Canada’s most populous province. [...] The workers [...] are employed under [...] (SAWP), which allows Canadian employers to hire temporary migrant workers from Mexico and 11 countries in the Caribbean [...]. “We work for eight months on minimum wage and can’t survive for the four months back home. The SAWP is exploitation at a seismic level. Employers treat us like we don’t have any feelings, like we’re not human beings. We are robots to them. They don’t care about us.” Between 50,000 and 60,000 foreign agricultural labourers come to Canada each year on temporary permits [...]. Canada exported more than $63.3bn ($82.2bn Canadian) in agriculture and food products in 2021 – making it the fifth-largest exporter of agri-food in the world. [...]

[Text by: Jillian Kestler-D'Amours. "Jamaican farmworkers decry ‘seismic-level exploitation’ in Canada". Al Jazeera (English). 24 August 2022.]

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In my home country, St. Lucia, we believe in a fair day’s pay [...]. In Canada, we give more than a fair day’s work, but we do not get a fair day’s pay. [...] I worked in a greenhouse in [...] Ontario, growing and harvesting tomatoes and organic sweet peppers for eight months of the year, from 2012 to 2015. [...] In the bunkhouse where I lived, there were typically eight workers per room. Newly constructed bunkhouses typically have up to fourteen people per room. [...] I also received calls from workers (especially Jamaicans) who were either forbidden – or strongly discouraged – from leaving the farm property. This outrageous overreach of employer control meant that workers had difficulty sending money home, or buying necessary items [...]. [O]n a lot of farms, [...] workers’ movement and activity is policed by their employers. The government knows about this yet fails to act.

[Text are the words of Gabriel Allahdua. Text from a transcript of an interview conducted by Edward Dunworth. '“Canada’s Dirty Secret”: An Interview with Gabriel Allahdua about migrant farm workers’ pandemic experience'. Published by Syndemic Magazine, Issue 2: Labour in a Treacherous Time. 8 March 2022. Some paragraph contractions added by me.]

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The CSAWP is structured in such a way as to exclude racialized working class others from citizen-track entry into the country while demarcating them to a non-immigrant status as temporary, foreign and unfree labourers. The CSAWP is [...] a relic of Canada’s racist and colonial past, one that continues unimpeded in the present age [...]. [T]he Canadian state has offered a concession to the agricultural economic sector in the way of an ambiguous legal entity through which foreign agricultural workers are legally disenfranchised and legally denied citizenship rights.

[Text by: Adam Perry. "Barely legal: Racism and migrant farm labour in the context of Canadian multiculturalism". Citizenship Studies, 16:2, 189-201. 2012.]

---

Other publications:

Smith. 'Troubling “project Canada”: the Caribbean and the making of “unfree migrant labour”’. Canadian Journal of Latin American Studies Volume 40, number 2. 2015.

Choudry and Thomas. "Labour struggles for workplace justice: migrant and immigrant worker organizing in Canada". Journal of Industrial Relations Volume 55, number 2. 2013.

Harsha Walia. "Transient servitude: migrant labour in Canada and the apartheid of citizenship". Race & Class 52, number 1. 2010.

Beckford. "The experiences of Caribbean migrant farmworkers in Ontario, Canada". Social and Economic Studies Volume 65, number 1. 2016.

Edward Dunsworth. Harvesting Labour: Tobacco and the Global Making of Canada’s Agricultural Workforce (2022).

Edward Dunsworth. “‘Me a free man’: resistance and racialisation in the Canada-Caribbean Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program,” Oral History Volume 49, number 1. Spring 2021.

[all-the-things-2020]

Late Night Talking - Chapter Fifteen

Summary: Dieter and Emily spend Christmas with his brother’s family.

Word count: 7000+

Rating: PG all the way

Notes: I’ve never been to Vermont. The Christmas Market on Church Street in Burlington is real but all I know about it is what I saw on a quick Google search. Logan’s Candy in Ontario, CA is real, and so is the Parent Navel Orange Tree in Riverside. Everything else is made up.

Tag list: @rhoorl @avastrasposts @readingiskeepingmegoing @runningmom94 @gwendibleywrites @weho2kcmo

Vermont was cold. I’d been to Big Bear during the winter, so I thought I knew what cold was, but I was wrong. California cold, even in the mountains, is nothing compared to New England cold. I huddled in the puffy coat Dieter had ordered for me as I scanned the line of cars in the pick up line at Burlington International. A blue Jeep Cherokee, Dieter had said, but there were so many SUVs and it was snowing lightly, so I had a hard time. Then I saw a familiar face hanging out of a passenger side window. 

“Emily! Over here!” He waved his arm frantically, as if I wouldn’t notice him after he bellowed my name.

He hopped out and opened the back door for me. “Quick, get in out of the cold,” he said, taking my luggage around to the back. I slid into the back seat of the blessedly warm Jeep. 

“You must be Freddy,” I said to the driver.

”And you have to be Emily,” he said with a smile. “Welcome to Vermont.” He was definitely Dieter’s brother; they had the same warm brown eyes and strong nose, but Freddy was clean-shaven, his hair neatly trimmed in a conservative cut, and the only piece of jewelry he wore was a simple gold wedding band. And his care was immaculately clean. Dieter’s car always had a few empty water bottles, Kit Kat wrappers and stray bits of clothing rattling around in it, plus an assortment of scripts and paperwork that he hadn’t gotten around to taking inside yet. 

Dieter slammed the tailgate and dashed back into the car. “I always forget how fucking cold it gets here,” he said as he fumbled with his seatbelt. “You’re insane for living here.”

Freddy shrugged. “You get used to it. You’re just spoiled by that L.A. weather.”

Dieter twisted around in his seat to look at me. “You should have heard him the first winter after they moved here,” he said with a grin. “You look great, by the way.”

”I’m bundled up in this giant coat,” I replied. “You can barely see me.”

“I can see your face,” Dieter said. “And I missed it.”

”I missed you, too.” He’d been away filming most of the time since our Thanksgiving getaway. The shoot was in Toronto and he’d only been able to fly home for one weekend because of some delays on set due to weather and other complications. 

Freddy pulled out into the Christmas Eve morning traffic. The airport was busy but not as crazy as LAX had been. Thank goodness for the airport shuttle, or I would never have made my flight in time. ”I hope I didn’t mess up your holiday plans too much,” I said. “Having to pick someone up at the airport is hassle enough, let alone on Christmas Eve.”

Freddy shrugged again. “Leila and the kids are busy baking, so I usually get banished to the living room anyway. And this one took a cab last night so I didn’t have to make two trips.”

“I am a very thoughtful brother,” Dieter said.

Freddy snorted. “I consider it a Christmas miracle.”

Dieter shoved his arm and Freddy poked him back with his elbow. Yeah, they were definitely brothers.

*********************************************************************

Freddy lived just outside Burlington so it wasn’t a long drive to his house. I couldn’t help but gawk at the snow. Everything looked like a Hallmark card. 

“So we thought we’d take you guys down to Church Street this evening for the Christmas Market,” Freddy said as we turned down his street. “We went last week, but the kids don’t mind going again.” He chuckled. “Anytime they can have hot chocolate and donuts for dinner they’re happy.”

”Hot chocolate sounds amazing,” I said. “I might need an intravenous drip.”

”Don’t worry, babe, I’ll keep you warm,” Dieter said. “Bet you’re glad I bought you that coat now.”  We’d had a bit of an argument over the coat. I’d told him I didn’t need such a fancy one, since I’d only be using it for a few days, but he insisted I’d freeze without it and we compromised by agreeing I could donate it to a women’s shelter before I flew home.

“I am,” I said. “You were right … this time.”

Freddy laughed. “That’s the way, keep his ego in check.”

We pulled up outside a two story middle class house decked out with strings of Christmas lights and a large plastic Santa on the lawn. “Ignore that,” Freddy said, gesturing toward the Santa, which was a bit faded and listing to one side. “He’s been in Leila’s family for ages and the kids won’t let us get rid of it. ‘But Dad, it’s tradition!’”

”I like it,” I said. “He fits in with all the snow. And traditions are important when you’re a kid.”

Dieter and Freddy exchanged a look and I knew I’d touched a nerve. Dieter hadn’t told me a lot about his childhood, but I knew enough to know that their mom hadn’t exactly been June Cleaver. 

Freddy opened the door and we stepped into the house, which smelled like Santa’s workshop. Sugar, cinnamon, and cloves mixed with the scent of the six foot tall fir tree in the living room. My family had never had a real tree; my dad kept repairing the old artificial tree they’d bought when I was a year old and Mom and I had used it until she died, even though by that time it had shed a quarter of its needles and had to be carefully situated to hide the bald spot where one of the branches was missing. 

“Uncle Dieter!” The kids came barreling toward us and collided with Dieter. Derek was twelve and Sasha was almost fourteen. Both were wearing silly aprons with elves on them. 

“Hey, kiddos,” Dieter laughed, trying to hug both of them at the same time. “You just saw me like an hour ago.”

”We know,” Derek said. “But it’s funny.” He had the same glint in his eye that Dieter got when he had one of his “brilliant” ideas. 

“And it’s not like we could run up and hug Emily or anything,” Sasha said. She seemed a bit more reserved than her brother.

”Why not?” Dieter said. “She’s very huggable.” He demonstrated by squeezing me in his arms.

”At least let me take my coat off first,” I managed to say once I could breathe again. “And introduce me properly.”

”Kids, this is Emily,” Dieter said. “Emily, the kids.”

Sasha rolled her eyes. “I’m Sasha,” she said, holding out her hand. “And this is Derek.”

I shook their hands. “Very nice to meet you both,” I said. “Your uncle has told me all about you.”

”All we know about you is that Uncle Deet thinks you hung the moon,” Derek said. Sasha swatted at him. “That’s what Dad said,” Derek protested. 

“True, but that doesn’t mean you need to say it in front of her.” Leila came into the room, drying her hands on a kitchen towel. She was about my height and build. It seemed the Bravo brothers had a type. ”I’m Leila, by the way. And we are so happy to finally meet you.” She handed the towel to Sasha and hugged me warmly. “It’s good to see Dieter happy,” she whispered in my ear. “Thank you for that.”

”Now let’s get back to the kitchen before that batch of cookies burns,” Leila said briskly. “And let Emily get settled. We’ll have plenty of time to chat over lunch.”

Dieter carried my bags up the stairs. “We’re in the guest room,” he said. “Which is way better than the couch I used to crash on in that apartment Freddy and Leila had before he got the promotion.”

”You loved that couch,” Freddy called up the stairs. “As I recall, you even named it. Marlene, wasn’t it?”

”He’s full of shit,” Dieter said, shaking his head. “It was Maria. Because it was a problem. Like the song in ‘The Sound of Music.’”

”You are such a theater nerd.”

”I tried out for my high school production but I can’t sing to save my life,” he said. “Ended up being on the stage crew. And after that I vowed I’d never work on another play unless I was in the cast. The crew has to work too hard.”

******************************************************************

The day flew by. After I’d stashed my luggage, I joined Leila and the kids in the kitchen while Dieter and Freddy caught up in front of the TV. “I know it’s a total stereotype but that man is absolutely no use in the kitchen,” Leila told me as she handed me an apron. 

“Dieter’s not much better,” I said. “He can cook if he has to, but he’s lazy about cleaning up after himself.”

”Freddy burned water once,” Leila said. “Put a pot on to boil for pasta, forgot about it and it boiled dry. Scorched the bottom of one of my best pots.”

”Mom banned him from the kitchen after that,” Sasha added. 

I helped the kids decorate the sugar cookies and gingerbread men that had already come out of the oven while Leila finished cutting out and baking the last batch. “We’ve got time for one more kind of cookie before I have to start lunch,” she said. “Is there anything special you’d like to make, Emily? Something from your family? We already did the spritz cookies that my grandma used to make.”

”Do you have walnuts and powdered sugar? My mom always made snowballs. The cookbook calls them Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cakes, but her grandma called them snowballs.”

”We have that in our cookbook,” Derek said. “I saw it.” He pulled out a battered old Betty Crocker that looked a lot like the one my mom had used.

”Then snowballs it is,” Leila said. 

While we mixed up the dough, the kids asked questions about my family traditions. They were shocked when I admitted I’d never celebrated a white Christmas or had a real tree. When I told them about the year I’d gotten a sweatsuit and a bunch of nice sweaters and it ended up being 80 degrees on Christmas Day and I had to wear a t-shirt to Grandma’s house, they thought I was teasing.

“No, seriously,” I said as I rolled the dough into balls and passed them to Derek to be placed on the cookie sheets. “I wanted to wear my new clothes so bad but it was too hot. Grandma had to turn the air conditioning on because the house got so warm from roasting the turkey.”

”Well, we’ll show you how to do Christmas the New England way,” Sasha said. “We can build a snowman and go sledding and have a snowball fight.”

”But don’t let Dad and Uncle Deet play,” Derek said. “They get too competitive. Last year I got beaned right in the face and Dad just told me to walk it off.”

When the cookies were ready for the oven, Leila shooed us out of the kitchen. “I won’t let them burn,” she promised. “But I need you all out of my way while I fix some lunch.”

We joined Dieter and Freddy in the living room, where they were watching the “A Christmas Story” marathon. We all squished onto the couch together, with me sandwiched between Dieter and Sasha. 

“You smell delicious,” Dieter said. “Like butter and sugar.” He ventured a kiss on my jawbone, but I elbowed him.

”Not in front of the kids,” I hissed.

Ralphie’s dad had just received the Major Award when Leila called us to the dining room. Lunch was tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches, which brought back memories of sick days on the couch watching “The Price is Right” when I was a kid. As I looked around the table, I felt a wave of homesickness. I remembered meals with my parents when I was young, when we laughed and teased each other like Freddy and his kids did. 

Dieter must have sensed my melancholy, because he reached out and squeezed my hand, his eyes concerned. I smiled at him and shook my head slightly to let him know I was okay. He winked and turned back to his soup, but slid his foot closer, tapping his shoe against my boot. He didn’t always know what to do, but he was always tuned into my moods. He claimed it was because the vibrations of our souls were compatible, and I wasn’t sure if he really believed it or was bullshitting me. Either way, it was comforting to know that he was always there for me.

***********************************

After lunch the kids insisted I go outside with them to build a snowman. 

“She’s probably tired from the flight,” Leila said, but Derek starting singing “Do You Want to Build a Snowman” from Frozen and there was no way I could turn him down.

It was still snowing very lightly and I was so bundled up in my puffy coat and a borrowed beanie and mittens that I could hardly move. My boots weren’t as waterproof as they looked and soon my feet were frozen but I gamely helped the kids roll the snow in the front yard into a ball.

”This is hard work,” I managed to say. My glasses were fogging up from my breath and I couldn’t see very well.

”That’s why we made so many cookies,” Derek said with a grin. “We burn up so many calories out here.”

”Yeah, that’s just your excuse for eating more than your share,” Sasha said. 

They started bickering and I took advantage of the momentary lull in snowman construction to rest a bit. I was out of breath and simultaneously sweating and frozen. It was wonderful.

”Merry Christmas!” A voice rang out and we turned to see a woman in a stylish ski outfit carrying a plate wrapped in foil.

Sasha groaned. “It’s Ms. Baker,” she said. “Our neighbor who mysteriously shows up every time Uncle Dieter’s visiting.”

Derek got that look in his eyes that I recognized all too well from his uncle. “Hey, Ms. Baker,” he called out. “Merry Christmas!”

”You guys making a snowman? How cute! I brought a rum cake for your parents.” She stared at me, clearly trying to figure out if she knew who I was. “Who’s your friend?”

”Oh, this is Aunt Emily, Uncle Dieter’s girlfriend,” Derek said with a cherubic smile. “They just flew in for the holiday. She’s from California and she’s never made a snowman before.”

Ms. Baker’s eyes narrowed. “Nice to meet you,” she said stiffly. “So, your uncle’s here? Good thing I made a big cake. I know how much he likes my rum cake.”

”Oh, but Uncle Dieter’s sober now,” Derek said with mock concern. “He won’t want any rum cake, will he, Aunt Emily?”

It took every fiber of my being to keep from laughing. The kid was good.

”A slice of rum cake isn’t the same as having a drink, though,” Sasha chimed in. 

“Right, Aunt Emily? I mean, Mom and Dad let me have a little sliver last year.”

”We’ll have to ask Deet,” I said, silently thanking Sasha for giving me an extra few seconds to compose myself. “But even if he can’t have any, I can,”

Ms. Baker smiled tightly. “Well, you kids get back to your snowman. I’ll just go inside now.”

As soon as she was inside the house, the kids started giggling. “That was hilarious,” Derek said. “She always shows up and tries to flirt with Deet.”

”The look on her face when we said ‘Aunt Emily,’” said Sasha. “Oh, it was okay that we did that, right? It was just to mess with her. If you don’t want us to …”

”It’s fine,” I assured her. “And did your parents really let you eat rum cake last year?”

”Yeah,” she said, making a face. “It was kind of gross. But that might be because Ms. Baker does not live up to her name.”

Derek laughed so hard he fell over. When he had recovered, we got back to work on the snowman. My feet were blocks of ice but I was happier outside with the kids than going inside and pretending to be nice to Ms. Baker.

******************************************

We finally got the snowman finished and I went inside to get my phone so we could take a picture. Ms. Baker had left in a hurry, hardly speaking to us as she passed. 

“What did you say to her?” I asked Dieter as I headed back outside.

”Who?”

”Ms. Baker.”

Dieter smiled, the same glint in his eye that I’d seen from Derek. “Oh, just mentioned I had a very special gift for you that I wanted to give you surrounded by my family.”

”You’re terrible,” I said. 

“Freddy didn’t help,” Leila chimed in. “Dropping hints about ringing in the New Year in style.”

”I hate her rum cake,” Freddy said. “Tastes like stale pound cake soaked in rubbing alcohol. Maybe if she realizes Dieter’s not interested in her she’ll stop bringing us one every year.”

”Tell the kids they have twenty minutes and then they need to get their butts inside to change,” Leila said. “We’re leaving for the Christmas Market at three so we can get decent parking.”

******************************************************

The Market was amazing, like something out of a Hallmark movie. Lights twinkled, music filled the air and shop windows glowed with charming displays. We stopped at a stall that sold hot chocolate while Freddy fetched a dozen freshly made apple cider donuts from another stall nearby. 

“Best. Dinner. Ever,” Derek declared around a mouthful of donut. 

“Worst. Manners. Ever,” Freddy said, raising an eyebrow.

Sasha and Leila were whispering to each other and stealing glances my way. Dieter was absorbed in his own donut, making those weird little noises he always made when he ate something he really liked. I looked up at the darkening sky and watched the snowflakes spiral down. 

“So …,” Leila said. “Sasha has an idea.”

”Um, I think … Emily should get an ornament for the tree,” Sasha mumbled.

”Yeah!” Derek cried. “She totally should.”

Freddy looked at Dieter, who came slowly back from wherever it was he went when he was savoring something. “What?”

”The kids think Emily should pick out an ornament for the tree,” Freddy said slowly. 

Dieter’s eyes went wide. “You sure?”

”Yeah,” said Freddy. “I think it’s a good idea.”

”What’s going on?” I asked. Everyone seemed to be extremely concerned about the idea of me buying an ornament.

”Everyone has a special ornament that they put on the tree on Christmas Eve,” Dieter said. “Freddy and Leila and Sasha and Derek … and me. I only put mine on when I’m here for Christmas. It’s kind of a family tradition.”

”And you want me to get one, too.”

”Yeah,” said Sasha, biting at her lower lip.

I looked at Dieter, who was making puppy dog eyes at me. “Okay,” I said, feeling like I was agreeing to a lot more than just choosing a bauble for the tree.

Sasha and Derek dragged me to a booth that was hung with hand blown glass ornaments in all kinds of fancy shapes. “I have a soccer ball,” Derek said. “You have to pick something that’s important to you. Deet has a rubber ducky because he says he had one when he was little.”

”Dad wouldn’t let him buy the weed one,” Sasha explained. 

I was fairly certain the rubber duck was not a fond childhood memory, because Dieter had once told me a rather off color story when he was still indulging in alcohol that I wasn’t entirely sure wasn’t true, but I didn’t think the kids needed to know that. I browsed the ornaments before settling on a sparkly orange wedge.

”An orange?” Derek asked. 

“Where I live used to be famous for growing oranges,” I told him. “The original navel orange tree is in a protected enclosure in Riverside. It’s kind of a landmark. And there’s a historical park all about citrus fruits out there, too. Plus my mom said her grandma always told her a story about how her mother got her first orange in a Christmas stocking.”

”That’s pretty cool,” said Sasha, although Derek didn’t seem to agree. I paid for the ornament and the shopkeeper carefully wrapped it in tissue and packed it into a cardboard box with a picture of a reindeer on it.

We rejoined Dieter, Freddy and Leila and continued walking down the street. Suddenly Sasha and Derek started giggling and pointed up. 

“What?,” said Dieter, looking around.

”Mistletoe!,” the kids cried out. Sure enough, there was a big bunch of mistletoe tied to the awning above us.

Dieter winked at me and slid his arms around me, dipping me slightly. “Got to give the kids what they want,” he said before kissing me very thoroughly. Finally, Freddy tapped him on the shoulder. 

“Remember, you’re in public,” he said.

Dieter laughed and although he was wearing mittens, I was pretty sure he flipped his brother the bird as he stepped back from me. “They shouldn’t hang that stuff on the street, then,” he said. “I’m just saying.”

Freddy shook his head. “I can’t take you anywhere.”

****************************************************

By the time we got back to the house, it was snowing steadily. Freddy turned on all the lights in the living room while Leila fetched a green storage container with a red lid. “Okay, time for the ornaments and stockings!,” she said.

Freddy went first, hanging his old school typewriter; then Leila hung up her panda bear. Next came Sasha’s owl and Derek’s soccer ball, followed by Dieter’s rubber duck. Finally, I unpacked my orange slice and found an unobtrusive spot around the side.

Then Leila passed out the stockings, which were bright red felt and appliquéd with snowflakes and little trees. A handwritten tag hung from the loop of each one with the owner’s name in perfect calligraphy — including one that said “Emily.”

”Oh, you didn’t have to,” I protested as I looked at my brand-new stocking. The others were well worn and had clearly seen many Christmases.

”Yes, I did,” Leila said. “How else would Santa know you’re here?” She winked and both kids rolled their eyes.

I hadn’t hung a stocking since I was ten years old, when I’d declared that stockings were for “little kids.” I felt a lump in my throat as I placed mine on the hook next to Dieter’s. 

“And now …” Freddy said, pulling out a box of matches. He carefully lit the candles on the mantel and a few others spaced around the room, then Derek flipped off the lights. The room was bathed in the soft glow of the tree lights and candles. Leila started a playlist of old-school holiday songs on the sound system and we all settled down. Freddy and Leila took the couch, the kids curled up on the rug in front of the fireplace, and Dieter pulled me into the overstuffed armchair to the side. It wasn’t quite big enough for two, so I ended up mostly in his lap.

”Are you sure?” I whispered, nodding toward the kids.

Dieter just tilted his head toward Freddy and Leila, who were snuggled up on the couch, her head resting on his chest and his arms wrapped around her. “It’s tradition,” Dieter whispered back.

We listened to Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra for a few songs, then Freddy started telling a story about the year he was seven and Dieter was five and they found out their next door neighbors were Jewish and the kids got eight nights worth of presents instead of just one morning. Leila followed with the story of how her aunt decided she was going to make Christmas dinner instead of her mom and the turkey wasn’t cooked all the way through and everyone ended up making an excuse to leave early and they all ended up at McDonald’s.

“Tell the one about the air conditioning, Emily,” Derek said when he’d finished his own story about the year he thought he was only getting clothes because Sasha had convinced him that his letter to Santa had gotten lost on the way to the North Pole due to an elvish postal workers’ strike. “Dad didn’t hear it yet.”

Then it was Dieter’s turn. “My story is kind of boring,” he said. “It’s about my best Christmas ever and I’m not sure how it ends because it’s happening right now.” He squeezed me tightly. “I’m one hundred percent sober and I’m surrounded by all my favorite people and it’s snowing. You can’t get more perfect than that.”

”Doesn’t count,” Derek piped up. “You’re supposed to tell a funny one.”

”It just has to be memorable,” Freddy said. “And I think we’re all going to remember this one for a long time.”

”Yeah, it’s the first one with Emily,” said Sasha. 

I felt tears in my eyes for the umpteenth time that day. How was it possible that I felt more at home with these people I’d just met than I ever did with my blood relatives? “Thanks, everyone,” I managed to say. “I’ll definitely remember this Christmas for the rest of my life.”

The clock on the mantel chimed nine and Leila clapped her hands. “Okay, kiddos, time for bed. Pajamas, teeth brushed and ready for tucking in by nine thirty.”

Both kids groaned. “Mom, we’re not five anymore,” Derek said.

”I know, but I need time to play Santa’s helper before I get to bed,” Leila said, “and you know you’ll both be up at the crack of dawn begging us to let you open presents. Besides, it’s tradition.”

Dieter yawned and stretched his arms wide. “I’m kind of tired myself,” he said. “It’s been a long day.”

Freddy shook his head. “Oh, get out of here. I know you just want to get out of helping.”

”I’m a guest,” Dieter said primly. “So is Emily.”

”You’re a freeloader,” replied Freddy. “But it’s Christmas. Consider it your present from me.”

Dieter wiggled out from under me and then helped me up. “Come on, let’s get upstairs before he changes his mind.”

As I unpacked my nightshirt, I remembered something. “I’ll be right back,” I said, grabbing a small box out of my luggage and trotting back downstairs. The lights were back on and Leila was already working on the stockings while Freddy was cursing in the hall closet as he pulled out presents from their hiding places.

”Here,” I told Leila, handing her the box. “I almost forgot. You can put these in the stockings. They’re handmade candy canes from a candy shop back home. They make them with real sugar and premium peppermint oil. I got a dozen, so we can each have two.” I didn’t keep up many holiday traditions anymore, but a trip to Logan’s Candy in Ontario was always on my list. Their canes were the best in the world.

”Thank you,” Leila said. “They look delicious!”

”Do you need any help?”

”No, you get back upstairs to Dieter,” she said. “Freddy and I are old hands at this. And I wasn’t joking about the kids being awake at the ass crack of dawn. You’ll be glad we all went to bed early.”

Dieter was already in bed when I got back to our room. I quickly changed into my sleep shirt and dove under the covers. Despite the heater, the house was chilly.

”Your feet are frozen!” Dieter gasped, pulling away from me.

I snuggled closer. “So help me warm them up,” I said. The man was like my own private furnace, which was good at times like this. In the summer, not so much. I tucked my feet between his calves and he pretended to shiver.

”Blocks of ice,” he muttered. “You’re so mean to me.” 

“Then why are you kissing my neck?”

”Because you still smell like cookies,” he said. “And I haven’t seen you in ages.” His hands worked their way underneath my sleep shirt.

”Whoa, hold on,” I said. “Are you sure? I mean, it’s Christmas Eve. And the kids are right down the hall.”

Dieter snorted. “First of all, you aren’t any more religious than I am. And second of all, I’m sure Freddy and Leila do it all the time with the kids in the house.”

”Still, it feels sacrilegious.”

”It feels naughty,” Dieter corrected me. “And I don’t know about you, but the idea of Santa Claus watching us is kind of turning me on.”

”Eww!” 

“He sees you when you’re sleeping, he knows when you’re awake, he knows if you’ve been bad or good, so be good for goodness’ sake,” Dieter crooned off key, followed by a trail of kisses down my throat. “Be good for me, baby. Let me unwrap this gift a little early.”

”Well, you have been a good boy lately,” I said. “Just try to be quiet for once.”

”So you want a silent night?”

”Shut up and kiss me, Dieter.”

**************************************************************

It was still dark when our bedroom door flew open and something large crashed onto our feet. “Merry Christmas!” Derek cried. 

“You are so rude,” Sasha said from the doorway. “Get off them.” We all sat up, blinking at the overhead light that Sasha had flicked on. “What if they were naked?”

“Why would they be naked … ohhh!” Derek scrambled off the bed. “Gross! They’re Mom and Dad’s age.”

”Mom and Dad still do it,” Sasha said. 

Derek made gagging noises. “That is not the image I want in my head on Christmas morning, Sash.”

”Okay, okay, we’re all up,” Freddy yawned from the hallway. “Give us a minute to use the facilities and we’ll go downstairs.”

”Yay!” Derek dashed out of the room while Sasha shook her head. 

“Sorry about him,” she said. “He’s such a little kid sometimes.”

Freddy tousled her hair. “O wise and solemn adult, why don’t you put a robe on over your Hello Kitty pajamas so you don’t freeze?”

She rolled her eyes. “You’re such a dad.”

Dieter was already shrugging into his beloved green bathrobe, which was starting to get bald in spots, but which he refused to replace because it was comfortable. “Yeah, Freddy, don’t be such a dad.”

”You stop talking, or you won’t get any pancakes,” Freddy said.

Dieter mimed zipping his lips and tossed my robe at me. 

After a quick trip to the bathroom and a cursory brushing of teeth, we all trooped down to the living room, where a pile of presents had appeared underneath the tree and our stockings were bulging with treats. 

“You really didn’t have to,” I told Leila as she handed me my stocking.

”And have you sit there without anything while we all dive in? No way.”

My candy canes were at the top, but underneath were chocolates, a tube of hand cream, a glass nail file, and a few other trinkets. “Just some fun girl stuff,” Leila explained. “Sasha’s a bit too old for toys but every woman enjoys a mini spa day.”

“Presents!” Derek said after he’d dumped out the contents of his stocking. “Time for presents!”

I curled up on the couch next to Dieter while the kids tore into their gifts. Dieter had had his shipped straight to the house for Freddy and Leila to wrap, so he was as excited to see them as the kids were.

”No way!” Derek cried as he unwrapped a massive Lego set of the Millenium Falcon. “Thank you, Uncle Deet!”

Sasha squealed as she opened a brand new iPad mini. “This is exactly the one I wanted. Thanks, Uncle Deet!”

Dieter was grinning from ear to ear as both kids danced around. 

“You’re spoiling them,” Freddy said.

”I’m their rich uncle. I’m allowed.”

After the kids finished opening their presents, we all got dressed and Leila made pancakes for breakfast. Mountains of pancakes with real maple syrup. Dieter and Freddy got into a pancake eating contest that ended only when Dieter was forced to concede because Derek had taken the last one and Leila refused to make any more.

“I need to get the turkey in the slow cooker if we want to have dinner tonight,” she said when Dieter tried to wheedle just one more pancake out of her.

”I bet if Freddy needed one more pancake to win you’d make it,” Dieter whined.

”No, she wouldn’t,” Freddy said, carefully cutting up his final — winning — pancake. “But tell you what, since you are my brother and it’s Christmas … you can have half and we’ll call it a tie.” He counted the pieces on his plate and slid exactly half of them onto Dieter’s plate.

”And the winners get to do the dishes!” Leila said as soon as their plates were clean. Both men groaned, but cleared the table with a minimum of grumbling.

”What can I do to help?” I asked. 

“Nothing,” replied Leila. “Which is what I’m going to be doing as soon as I get that bird in the roaster.”

”Help me with my Lego,” Derek said.

”No, help me set up my iPad,” Sasha offered.

”How about if she supervises you both until we get done in the kitchen,” Freddy said. “I want to work on that Lego, too.”

”Me three!” Dieter chimed in.

Soon we were all back in the living room, the boys on the floor sorting Lego pieces and arguing over whether they really needed the directions or not. Leila helped Sasha set up her Apple account, and then we started browsing the App Store. It was cozy, with the tree lights blinking and the scent of maple syrup still lingering in the air. 

“Thank you,” I said to Leila.

”For what?”

”For including me. I know it has to be weird having a stranger in your house at Christmas.”  

“You aren’t any stranger than Dieter,” she quipped. “Seriously, though, you are very, very welcome. Freddy’s told me how different Dieter has been since he met you, and we’re so happy about it. They were pretty close when they were little but things got strained there for a while, especially after their parents divorced. Dieter felt like they had to choose sides and he couldn't understand why Freddy was still talking to their dad. Then when their mom died … Dieter kind of closed himself off from everyone. It’s good to see him connecting again.”

”That’s not just me,” I said. “He’s been on that path for a while, ever since he started rehab the first time.”

”But you’re a big part of it,” Leila insisted. “Freddy said there was a big change after you and Deet started dating. You’re good for him. And I think he’s good for you.”

Dieter looked up, one eyebrow raised. “Are you talking about me?”

”Of course,” Leila said. “Everyone everywhere is always talking about you, Dieter. You’re a celebrity. The world revolves around you. Geez, get over yourself.” She rolled her eyes and when Dieter had turned back to the Lego, we both giggled like kids. 

**************************************************

”I don’t know about this.”

Sasha and Derek had talked me into going to the sledding hill with them that afternoon. Now we stood at the top of a very steep incline with our plastic disks and I watched kids wiping out right and left.

”You’re fine,” Derek said. “It doesn’t hurt when you fall off, anyway.”

”Maybe not if you’re young and bendy,” I said. “But I’m old and stiff.”

”Mr. Gruenberg still sleds,” Sasha said, pointing out an older man with a neatly trimmed white beard who was whooping as loudly as his grandkids were.

”I bet he’s been doing it all his life,” I replied. “I’m from California. I went sledding once, on the side of the road when I was seven and it wasn’t nearly this long or this steep.”

”If you’re gonna be part of this family, you have to learn snow sports,” Derek said. “Sledding is the first one. Next time we’ll get you on skis.”

Sasha shrugged. “You kind of have to learn how to ski and snowshoe and stuff when you live in Vermont,” she said. “Otherwise you’d be stuck indoors half the year.”

I was still stuck on Derek’s offhand remark about being part of the family. I knew that being invited to spend the holidays with someone’s family was a huge step in a relationship, and people would make a lot of assumptions, but it fully hit me at that moment that these kids might just become my niece and nephew someday. That Freddy and Leila could be my brother and sister. For an only child, it was both a dream come true and the weirdest feeling imaginable. 

“Okay, you convinced me,” I said, trying to get my brain back to the present. “So what do I do?”

Derek demonstrated, hopping onto his sled and sliding down the slope with a wild yell. 

“Ready?” Sasha asked. “On the count of three. One … two … three!” She and I jumped onto our sleds and hurtled down the hill. It was disorienting and bumpy and scary and out of control. I loved it.

*************************************************************************

As we were putting our luggage into the back of the Cherokee the next morning, I pulled Freddy aside. “Thank you so much,” I told him. 

“For what?”

”For making me feel like part of the family. I know it must be weird to have your brother bring some strange woman home.”

Freddy held up his hand. “First of all, we should be thanking you for making Deet happy. He’s an asshole sometimes, but he’s my asshole and I love him. And second of all, you are part of the family. Dieter loves you and so do the rest of us. Look, I know Deet’s probably told you I cautioned him not to rush into anything, to take his time with this but … I might have been wrong. Maybe he does know a good thing when he sees it. Maybe his instincts were right. Or maybe he’s an idiot and he just got lucky.” He winked and hugged me. “Take care of him, okay?” 

“I will.”

”You okay?” Dieter asked when he helped me into the car. I might have been sniffling a little.

”Yeah, I’m just … gonna miss them.”

”Me, too,” he said, kissing my forehead. “They’re good people.”

”They’re your people, so of course they are.”

*****************************

Toronto was nothing like Vermont. For one thing, Dieter was back on set at 7:00 am the morning of the 27th and working ten to twelve hour days to make up for the lost time over the holidays. I didn’t see much of him except at night, but it was okay. We were together and I got to see what his life was really like for the first time. 

I spend my days reading or shopping or watching movies on Netflix. Not too much different from how I normally spent Winter Break at home, except for having Dieter next to me every night. 

“Now I know why you always looked so tired when you FaceTimed me,” I told him one evening after dinner. He’d been on set for eight hours already and had to go back for a couple more hours of night shoots on location. 

“Yeah, they’re really pushing us on this one,” he said, rubbing his hand across his face. “The studio wants it in on time and under budget and because of the holidays the director is super stressed out. But he did promise we’ll be done by nine on New Year’s Eve and get all of New Year’s Day off.”

Our hotel was holding a New Year’s Eve party in the ballroom but neither of us was really in the mood when the day rolled around. Dieter was tired and didn’t want to be around all the champagne, while I was lonely and just wanted to spend some time alone with him. So at the last minute we kicked off our shoes and ordered a bottle of sparkling cider sent to our room, along with an assortment of hors d’ouerves, for our own private party.

Our balcony faced the harbor, so we’d have a good view of the city’s fireworks display. It was bitterly cold out there, though, so we stayed inside until just before midnight. It was cozy on the little couch and it was tempting to just ignore the festivities and make some sparks of our own.

”No,” Dieter said. “We have to watch the fireworks. I love fireworks. Besides, this is our very first New Year together. We have to do it right. Make a toast. Kiss at the stroke of midnight.”

So at 11:55 we braved the cold, taking our glasses of cider out onto the balcony with us. We had the TV turned up so we could hear the official countdown. Ten. Dieter leaned against the balcony rail, a gentle smile on his face. Nine. He raised his glass. “To us.” Eight. I clinked the rim of my glass against his. Seven. “To us.” Six. We took a sip. Five. He turned around to face the harbor. Four. I leaned against the railing next to him. Three. He laid his hand against my cheek. Two. I tilted my face up toward him. One. He kissed me. “Happy New Year,” he whispered.

I looked out at the fireworks bursting across the sky. Dieter had his arm around me and I felt warm despite the Canadian winter night. We could hear the cheers and noisemakers from the party downstairs but I knew there was nowhere else in the world I’d rather be at that moment than next to Dieter, toasting the year we’d had and all the years to come.

”Can I ask you something?” I said.

”Of course,” he said, laying his cheek against the top of my head.

”Will you marry me?”

[bronzecats]

Happy Thanksgiving, Canada: Background

There really isn't a lot of information out there about Thanksgiving in Canada, so it's harder to tie it directly to a colonial narrative. An often mentioned pre cursor is the 1606 L'Ordre le Bon Temps (Order of Good Cheer), and various festivals of thanksgiving celebrated by several different Indigenous communities. The date of colonial Thanksgiving in Canada has varied over the years

Here's a couple of excerpts from the Canadian Encyclopedia:

In 1606, in an attempt to prevent the kind of scurvy epidemic that had decimated the settlement at Île Ste. Croix in the winter of 1604–05, Samuel de Champlain founded a series of rotating feasts at Port Royal called the Ordre de Bon Temps (“Order of Good Cheer”). Local Mi'kmaq families were also invited. The first feast was held on 14 November 1606 to celebrate the return of Jean de Biencourt de Poutrincourt from an expedition. Having attended the festivities, Marc Lescarbot remarked that they consisted of “a feast, a discharge of musketry, and as much noise as could be made by some fifty men, joined by a few Indians, whose families served as spectators.” .... The first national Thanksgiving in Canada was celebrated in the Province of Canada in 1859. It was organized at the behest of leaders of the Protestant clergy, who appropriated the holiday of American Thanksgiving, which was first observed in 1777 and established as a national day of “public thanksgiving and prayer” in 1789. In Canada, the holiday was intended for the “public and solemn” recognition of God’s mercies. As historian Peter Stevens has noted, some citizens “objected to this government request, saying it blurred the distinction between church and state that was so important to many Canadians.” The first Thanksgiving after Confederation was observed on 5 April 1872. A national civic holiday rather than a religious one, it was held to celebrate the recovery of the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) from an illness. Thanksgiving was first observed as an annual event in Canada on 6 November 1879. The date for each of the following years, as well as a unifying theme for which to give thanks (usually concerning the harvest, though anniversaries related to the British monarchy were also common), was determined annually by Parliament. The holiday occurred as late in the year as 6 December and even coincided several times with American Thanksgiving. The most popular date to observe Thanksgiving was the third Monday in October, when the fall weather is generally still amenable to outdoor activities. ... ... It was not until 31 January 1957 that Parliament proclaimed the observance of the second Monday in October as “a day of General Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed.” E.C. Drury, the former "Farmer-Premier" of Ontario, lamented later that “the farmers’ own holiday has been stolen by the towns” to give them a long weekend when the weather was better. Thanksgiving is an official statutory holiday in all provinces and territories except Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. It is called Action de grâce in Quebec and is celebrated to a much lesser extent there than in the rest of the country, given the holiday’s Protestant origins and Anglo-nationalist associations.

[mfrendo1]

Blog post 1

Growing up, I was lucky enough to live in a space where nature was always front and center. Whether I was playing in my grandfather’s garden or spending long weekends camping with my family, the outdoors was my happy place. My dad, who studied forestry, made sure to share his passion for nature with us. He’d point out different types of clouds, identify trees, and teach us about the little things we might not notice otherwise. Thanks to him, I developed a love for nature and all its hidden surprises.

As I got older, my relationship with nature evolved. I wanted to see what other parts of the world had to offer beyond Ontario’s landscapes. So, I began to travel and experienced some amazing adventures. Most recently, I traveled to Paris and backpacked through Italy and Greece. The Amalfi Coast and Lake Como blew me away with their stunning mountains, and Greece’s clever way of dealing with the heat by painting buildings and streets white was fascinating.

Hiking has always been a way for me to feel close to nature. In the past couple of years, I’ve hiked in Costa Rica and Banff, Alberta, and both experiences were incredible.

Costa Rica, being so close to the equator, is bursting with wildlife. Hiking through rainforests, seeing volcanoes, waterfalls, and dense jungle forests was an amazing experience. It really broadened my understanding of what nature is and how different countries appreciate their land It was also amazing that there was always free fruit hanging from the trees!

On the other hand, hiking in Banff made me appreciate my own country even more. The Canadian Rockies with their amazing mountains and wildlife felt like a whole new world. It was like I was rediscovering my home and reconnecting with the wild beauty of Canada.

Looking back, I realize that my dad’s love for nature and those early camping trips laid the groundwork for my evolving relationship with the outdoors. My dad gave me a sense of place by showing me that trees and plants are far more significant than I initially realized. He helped me see that every landscape I encounter has been here long before me and has been experienced by many people over the decades and even centuries. Nature has become an endless adventure for me, a place where I always find peace and joy. Whether I’m exploring new countries or revisiting old favourite trails, the forest remains a place where I feel connected to nature.

[iambittythings]

Happy Easter, to those who celebrate, and to those who don't, I hope you have a lovely weekend. I hope you hear birdsong, see flowers, and taste delicious things.

These are the buns I currently have photos of, a little black and white one based on an image I thought was just beautiful, a little lop bun, again, based on a bun I thought was pretty, and. Wolpertinger.

The first and third sold at Furnal Equinox, but the lop is currently available. He'll be removed from the shop within the next few weeks for a makeover, so if he's caught your heart, don't wait too long.

[gaps-between-stories]

Fic Preview

Check out a sneak peek up an upcoming installment of my Step-Dad series Bonus (featuring a very special sneak peek at Sofia, who has me wrapped around her finger just as much as her grandfather's).

After four years of university, three years of law school, six months of studying, a 7-hour long exam, and fifteen more agonizing minutes, Alma was finding out her Bar results today. She’d flown back home from Ontario the day after her exam, sleeping for about a week straight before beginning her anxious wait for her results. 

Their kitchen had smelled incredible the past week given the behemoth amount of stress baking she was doing, and Stede and Ed had started pawning off her baked goods to the neighbors, coworkers, anyone who would take them. They were drowning in banana breads and strawberry jams and while they loved her baking, it was getting overwhelming. This was one of her healthiest coping mechanisms so they were more than encouraging, although Ed had had to talk her down from cutting her own bangs about three nights ago. 

Their kitchen had also become a concert hall for Taylor Swift, whose never ending discography Alma still listened to religiously, blasting it at a volume that Ed was convinced was to prevent her from hearing her own thoughts. 

Today their kitchen was in a flurry of chaos as Alma managed to cram seven different baking pans into their oven while scream-singing 1989, checking her phone every three minutes for the time. 

Stede wasn’t helping any by asking her every time she checked her phone whether she’d heard back yet. 

Doug was trying to set up Louis on a facetime call, a seemingly easy task made all the more complicated by the shoddy service the kid had up in the Yukon right now. 

And Mary was currently running late, having missed her ferry over from the island. That last tidbit certainly wasn’t helping soothe Alma’s frayed nerves right now. 

Ed was mostly trying to stay out of the way, counting down the remaining fifteen minutes til the results were posted as patiently as he could. He had been occupying himself by entertaining Sofia, who was more than happy to bounce between all three of her grandfathers to keep her out from under her mother’s foot. But about twenty minutes ago she’d demanded that Ed pick her up, before promptly falling asleep in his arms. 

The music suddenly cut out. 

“Uh-oh.” Doug had tried to mutter it under his breath, tried to keep it to himself, but Stede and Alma’s bat hearing prevented that. 

“Why uh-oh?” They demanded in unison. 

Doug clicked the laptop a few times, Louis’ face frozen on the screen, then checked his phone, grimacing. “Looks like there’s an issue with the wifi. I’m going to need to reset the router.” 

Alma’s head dropped into her hands on the counter, screaming into her palm. Stede moved to show Doug where their wifi router was, which was of course on the second floor, leaving Edward alone with Alma in the now silent kitchen. 

Alma exhaled deeply, dragging her hands down her face. “I’m just gonna go lay down in the street if you need me.” 

Ed shot her a disapproving look. “Orange.” 

She rolled her eyes, letting out an exasperated sigh. “Oh come on, I’m not allowed one joke right now?” 

“It’s not the one joke I’m worried about.” 

“Dad, seriously, it’s fine. I’m fine.” She licked the batter off of her spatula to demonstrate how fine she was, gesturing to her growing baking clutter. 

“What time does Eleanor’s flight get it?” He asked, tactfully changing the subject as he gently shifted Sophia on his hip, doing his best not to stir her from her napping. She snuggled her head deeper into the crook of his neck, letting out the smallest of sighs in her sleep as she did. 

“6 pm,” she answered, checking her phone again. Seven minutes. Her fiance was presenting at a conference in the States this weekend and wouldn’t be able to make it before the results came in. “She’s probably somewhere over Nebraska right now,” she groaned.

[swradiogram]

Shortwave Radiogram, 3-8 January 2025 (program 383): Digital modes that melt the insulation from copper wire

Happy New Year 2025! With our two weeks of Holiday Spectacular broadcasts finished, we return to our normal format of one MFSK32 text story, one MFSK64 text story, images in MFSK64, and the closing announcements in MFSK32. With the occasional surprise mode or image under the closing music. Experiments with other modes are possible in the future. I am becoming familiar with my new Yaesu FT-991A transceiver, with QSOs on a variety of bands and modes with this "shack in a box." I have experimented with the FT-991A's USB port to deliver digital modes directly to my PC without need for a separate interface. However, because of complexities in installing Yaesu's driver software, and anomalies with my PC audio settings (which take a long time to normal), I've decided to continue using the SignaLink USB interface. I can use the same cable connection as I did with my FT-897D, and the SignaLink jumpers are the same. The SignaLink has handy TX and RX controls on the front. I know how it works, so I'll stay with it. For the Shortwave Radiogram transmission Saturday at 2300-2330 UTC, WRMI has lately been using both 7570 and 7780 kHz. You will remember that 7570 was off the air for several weeks due to hurricane damage. Its replacement has been 7780. Both were transmitting last week, and so the schedule below lists both frequencies. I'm not sure how long WRMI will maintain both frequencies, but it's good to have a choice for the time being.   A video of the previous Shortwave Radiogram (program 382 Holiday Spectacular) is provided by Scott in Ontario (Wednesday, December 25, 1330 UTC). The audio archive is maintained by Mark in the UK. Analysis is provided by Roger in Germany. Here is the lineup for Shortwave Radiogram, program 383, 3-8 January 2025, in MFSK modes as noted:  1:40  MFSK32: Program preview  2:48  MFSK32: India launches space docking mission  6:41  MFSK64: Microwaving to recycle insulated wire* 11:25  MFSK64: Images of the week* 27:12  MFSK32: Closing announcements * with image(s) Please send reception reports to radiogram@verizon.net And visit http://swradiogram.net Bluesky: swradiogram.bsky.social Twitter: @SWRadiogram or https://twitter.com/swradiogram (visit during the weekend to see listeners’ results) Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/567099476753304 Shortwave Radiogram Gateway Wiki: https://wiki.radioreference.com/index.php/Shortwave_Radiogram_Gateway

THE SHORTWAVE RADIOGRAM TRANSMISSION SCHEDULE IS IN THE IMAGE BELOW. IF THE SCHEDULE IS NOT VISIBLE FULL WIDTH, CLICK ON IT.

Other Shortwave broadcast programs that include digital text and images include The Mighty KBC, Pop Shop Radio and Radio North Europe International (RNEI). Links to these fine broadcasts, with schedules, are posted here.

Sporty Porcupine in Alabama received these images of the Holiday Spectacular, 27 December 2024, 0030-0400 UTC, 9265 kHz from WINB Pennsylvania ...

[construction-equipment-supplier]

The Top Industries That Rely on Construction Equipment Rental

Owning construction equipment can be cost-effective over time, but the initial investment is often overwhelming. You’ll need to cover significant upfront expenses, including storage, maintenance, and repairs. Fortunately, there’s a hassle-free alternative: renting construction equipment in Ontario. This option provides access to high-quality equipment without the burden of long-term commitments. Notably, the construction equipment rental market was valued at USD 39.22 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.73% by 2029.

Source: https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/us-construction-equipment-rental-market

Intrigued to know who else relies on rented construction equipment? Well, here are the top five industries where renting machines can make all the difference.

#1 Construction and Infrastructure Development

If we start with the most obvious industry, it will be the construction ecosystem. Have you ever watched a busy construction site with machines that are rented from the industry’s best? We mean, think about it: why would a contractor invest in a fleet of excavators, dump trucks, or bulldozers when they only need the equipment for a few months?

This is when they resort to a construction equipment rental company that uses the latest equipment for specific tasks without worrying about storage or upkeep. Whether we are talking about a small-scale residential project or massive highway construction, renting offers construction firms the flexibility and cost savings they have been looking for for so long.

#2 Oil and Gas Industry

The oil and gas industry tends to operate in remote, rugged environments, which is why specialized equipment is the need of the hour here. From digging trenches for pipelines to maintaining access roads, the oil and gas projects require heavy-duty machinery like loaders, backhoes, and even horizontal drilling machines.

Instead of hauling their equipment across long distances, oil and gas companies rent what they need locally to save time and ensure they are using the right machines for the job.

#3 Landscaping and Agriculture

Yes, even the green-thumb industries rely on heavy machinery! Landscapers and farmers often need equipment like skid steers, compact tractors, or mini excavators for short-term projects.

For example, let’s say a landscaping company lands a contract to reshape a large outdoor space with retaining walls and water features. Owning all the necessary equipment wouldn’t make sense for such occasional, high-stakes jobs. Renting ensures they get exactly what’s needed without draining their budget.

If you are in this line of work, renting is like borrowing a friend’s truck for a weekend, except the “friend” is a rental company with a massive selection.

#4 Mining and Quarrying

Mining is all about efficiency, and the right equipment can make or break a project. Dump trucks, excavators, and drilling rigs are just a few of the machines needed to extract minerals and resources.

But here’s the catch: mining companies don’t always need the same equipment for every site. Renting gives them the freedom to pick and choose what’s necessary for each project. It’s a flexible, budget-friendly approach that helps them stay competitive.

If you have ever thought mining was all about owning big machines, think again; rental is a huge part of their game plan.

Are you scouring the web for a construction equipment rental company for your next big construction project? Our team at Elvaan Equipment Solutions will be more than happy to help!

This content was originally published on: Elvaan Equipment Solutions

This has been republished with permission.

Original Source: https://elvaan.com/the-top-industries-that-rely-on-construction-equipment-rental/

[affordablecarandtruckrental]

Car Rental In Georgina: A Brief Information

The right set of wheels can go a long way when it comes to enjoying every inch of beauty Georgina has. If you are visiting Georgina for a short visit or are planning to stay longer, hiring a car in Georgina is the best choice one can make as it offers so much convenience and adventure. This blog will explore the benefits associated with a car rental in Georgina, how to get discount car rentals as well as give reasons why renting a vehicle is your best bet.

Reason for hiring a car in Georgina

Georgina in Ontario, Canada, is well known for its beautiful landscapes, quaint towns and recreational opportunities. At one end, there’s Lake Simcoe, whose magnificent sight cannot be missed, while at the other end, several parks and pathways are running through it. Renting a vehicle in Georgina lets you discover at your own pace; thus, visiting hard-to-reach areas or making unscheduled stops becomes easy.

A rental car gives you a chance to visit famous places such as the Georgina Pioneer Village or Sibbald Point Provincial Park, which has a calm atmosphere. Moreover, taking your car will facilitate better management of luggage and other materials required on one’s trip. Therefore, whether it is a weekend trip or an extended vacation, having your own transportation ensures a stress-free journey throughout this place. As a result, you can hire car in Georgina.

Options for car rental in Georgina

It is to rent a car in Georgina because several alternatives suit various preferences and pockets. There is a car for everyone, from small models for city driving to large SUV types used by families or groups. Car rental agencies operate locally offering various kinds of choices, many of them famous for their great customer service and affordable prices.

When going for a car rental service, make sure that you check on the vehicle condition preferences as well as risk management, among others. You may also check on various costs as well as customer feedback before making up your mind on which one to choose out of the many available options in Georgina. If you go around the town, you will find some impressive deals from these rental companies.

Searching for a discount car rental in Georgina

If you are searching for a discount car rental in Georgina, here are several strategies to aid you in saving on your next car rental. By booking in advance, many agencies offer lower rates for those planning ahead. Keep your eyes peeled for special promotions or seasonal discounts that might be around.

Other tips: full use of comparison websites, which put prices from several rental companies in one place, letting the customer easily find a good deal. Check for coupons or loyalty programs that further reduce your rental costs. Sometimes, choosing an unpopular car model or using a somewhat out-of-the-way rental agency can help you save money.

Final Words

Renting a car in Georgina could enhance your travel experience by allowing you to move freely within this lovely region. Therefore, if you want something that works for you and is within your financial ability, there are many types of rentals available, along with discounts as well. Having a plan and capitalizing on deals will give you an unforgettable time that leaves you feeling happy. So pack your luggage, take your keys and prepare to see everything that Georgina has in store for you. The best place from where you can rent a car is the one and only Affordable Car & Truck Rental.

[eviesessays]

22. What have been some of your life's greatest surprises?

In my advanced age I thought nothing surprised me but on further reflection I decided almost everything surprises me.  That I am in my 88th year is one of my greatest surprises.  I remember once when I was in my early teen years I had pleurisy and every time I tried to take a breath I had such a pain in my chest, I was certain I was soon going to die.  I knew how sad everyone would be and how they would miss me and wish they had been kinder to me.  Well, the biggest surprise was that I recovered in a few days and nobody seemed to notice my distress or my recovery.

I am surprised that I live in New Hampshire.  When Kip and Carl and I were young we kept an account of all the license plates we saw from outside Ontario.  Most were from the United States.  Sioux Lookout was a small town in the North of the province.  It had many beautiful, pristine lakes and therefore many fishing lodges and camps that attracted fishing enthusiasts.  Most cars we counted were from the nearer border states, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and  Michigan.  I do not remember a car from New Hampshire.  That stood to reason since it was 1000 miles away and at that time had beautiful, pristine unpolluted lakes of its own.

That I now live in this beautiful but presently very cold state was the result of a broken promise. When I married Phil Pahl he was the chief engineer of the SR71 at the Pentagon.  He was a colonel and promised this was his last assignment and we would not leave Washington.  In early 1974 he was assigned to Hanscom AFB in Bedford, MA.  That Easter vacation we flew space available to Germany and Spain since we were  going to be spending our summer vacation moving.  He went on to Bedford and house hunted and I stayed behind til the school year ended.  I resigned my wonderful job and prepared for the move.  In June we moved into our home on Wildwood Drive in Bedford, MA.  We found Boston a beautiful, historical and interesting city.  We also found weekend trips to New Hampshire beautiful in all seasons.  We all became skiers.  We bought a cottage near Wolfboro, NH.  It was one of the most idyllic places. It was peaceful beyond words. We canoed and swam in Lake Winnipesaukee in summer and skied at Ossippee and Gunstock. in Winter.  The cottage was not so much a surprise in my life but one of the greatest joys.  

In 1984 Phil retired from the Air Force and by then we were dedicated New Englanders.  We bought a farm in Warner, NH.  I remember walking along the river and seeing the property for the first time.  Heather and her friend Rachel were with us.  It was a magnificent find.  The piling of the Waterloo covered bridge was one of the boundary markers for the property.  There were 22 acres on one side of the river and a strip of 5 miles that ran along the other side of the Warner River.  There was a large barn, an in-ground swimming pool, a lovely modern home and a small building near the river bank.  It had a wood stove and was currently used as a woodworking shop.  There were two large meadows and a large vegetable garden.  It was perfect and I knew immediately was a place where my spirit could soar and my heart could rest.  

Life moved at rocket speed.  We bought the farm, sold the Bedford house and sold my most loved cottage. I turned 50 and Jaylyn got married. Phil retired and took a part time civilian job. Peter graduated from college and then I got cancer. It was also at this time that Phil admitted to me that  he had a long standing affair with his tennis partner in Bedford.  I knew I would be divorced again. I would not be very tolerant of an impulsive, “tussle in the hay”,  but this was a long standing, calculated affair.  We were divorced in 1988.  I bought the farm and spent 22 very happy years there. Now in my 70’s, I had to admit I could not keep up with all the needs of this very happy place.  In 2007 I sold the farm and moved to Mountain Road in Concord.  

After two failed treatments for my Non Hodgkins Lymphoma, I decided to go into Dana Farber in Boston.  I did an experimental treatment and have been cancer free since.  

Today is March 4, 2023 and we are having a huge snow storm.  I am at my desk writing a story about life’s greatest surprises and the truth is most things surprise me.  My granddaughters, Anne and Hillary have each given me two great grandchildren who are delightful, charming and full of wonderful surprises.

I still hear from classmates but half my high school class is now gone and almost half of my nursing school class has also passed away.  Considering all things I guess one of life’s greatest surprises is that I am still here to tell the story.

[crazyyankee]

Labor Day Weekend - Happy Labor Day Weekend! We were fortunate to enjoy this long weekend trolling the waters of Lake Ontario, and we hope you enjoyed yours.

Saturday and Sunday we fished a year end tournament called "Big Boys" with some long time clients. It just wasn't our weekend! Saturday morning we started off 3/13 by 8:30am. You can't win big tournaments when you drop 10 Salmon. Sunday, we were faced with much of the same. We eventually gave up on the inside waters, that is housing some nice staging Salmon action, and took our clients offshore. What could have been!

Monday morning we had some new clients out with us, and they did great! Our landing percentage went way up, and these two had all they could handle in just a few hours. Even a few PB's were handed out! This was not a typical charter. These two have their own set up, and wanted to improve their game. We really enjoy teaching charters!

[fleurcareil]

East Ontario: Ottawa Valley & North Bay

Left Montreal reasonably early for a 3 hour drive out of Québec & back into good ol' Ontario to visit the Bonnechere caves at Eganville in the Ottawa Valley... apart from people no longer speaking French, it feels as if suddenly the roads are much busier with more careless driving.... even though I'm a long way from the GTA, it feels more like home! 😝

A visit to the caves had been a long-time wish of mine, but it's too far from the city for a day- or even a weekend trip so excited to finally be here! To my surprise, the tour started with an explanation of all the fossils that have been (and are still) found here in the caves and riverbanks, as the limestone preserved many specimens of brachiopods, gastropods and other invertebrates from the Ordovician period before the fishes evolved. Having had extensive geology courses at university, I always love learning about fossils and although I probably only retain a few % of what's mentioned, by attending tours anywhere I go, I've built a reasonable understanding over time! 😃

The tale of how the cave was explored (in the dark and under water) provided a funny back-story to the tour and although the stalactites/mites are tiny here (growing one inch every 150 years), it was cool to search for & find little fossils in the cave walls. Lunch picknick next to the river topped off the visit!

My next stop was at Shaw Woods outdoor education centre where there's a trail through a stand of old growth forest. The maple trees were incredibly tall but the presence of too many flies put a bit of a damper on the hike... as someone suggested to me later, all these bugs should have died by mid-July but perhaps they came from Québec escaping the smoke there 😜

After having failed to find a patio on the Pembroke waterfront, I bought sushi, salad & beer from the grocery store and sat on a bench at the marina overlooking the Ottawa River. I like it when public parks are used; first there was a yoga session attended by some 100 people, followed by a line dancing class in the gazebo. I was content doing nothing for a change 😁

The next morning, I went to Canadian Tire for an oil change and tire rotation; having driven more in 7 weeks than I usually do in a year with still long ways to go, I thought it wise to keep up the maintenance - better safe than sorry 🤩

Thereafter, I was off to another highly anticipated activity; visiting the Barron Canyon in East Algonquin. Algonquin is foremost known for all its lakes that dot the provincial park, but in the east a river has carved out a canyon through which you can paddle! I first did the little hike along the cliff tops, which was actually a bit unsettling as it's really high & steep and there are no safety guards whatsoever... I'm a big girl who knows to stay away from the edge and not afraid of heights, but I must say I was glad to move on & get going with the paddling!

The put-in was quite far away; 4.6km paddling plus a 420m portage around some rapids so it took me two hours to get to the start of the canyon, but I was happy all along the way, simply enjoying the scenery. It was the first time I portaged with my SUP in the forest, so that was quite an experience but easier than feared! Once in the canyon, the sun came out briefly, so I took my time eating a sandwich and admiring the high walls! 🤗

I should have heeded though the dark clouds that were forming, as a thunderstorm rapidly developed on the way back... despite paddling as fast as I could, suddenly all hell broke loose and even though I was only 15 minutes away from the car I really could no longer stay safely on the water and had to take cover in the woods... I hugged a big tree hoping that it wouldn't get hit & that a bear wouldn't come and that's all I could do! 😵 An experience I prefer not to have again! Once back on the board when the worst had passed (still in the rain but with less lightning), I didn't see an underwater tree branch on which my fin hung, so I also ended up swimming in the surprisingly warm river! 🤣 For the rest of the day, I sat cuddled in my bed eating chips and watching TV. 😂

In the morning, I felt ready to face the world again 👍 so had a short stop at Petawawa Point to have a look at the wide Ottawa river with its many islands. The river looked calm here, however just an hour later on a hike at Driftwood provincial park, it looked more like a sea with its waves swept up by the wind... I had put up my hood to protect against both the rain and mosquitos but I ended up soaked by the trees/bushes and badly stung anyway so that was the end of my hiking plans for the day! 😒

Instead, I had a really nice visit at the museum and Explorer's Point in Mattawa where the Mattawa River joins the Ottawa River, an important meeting point since hundreds of years for Indigenous & fur traders, later for the rail construction and now for everyone like me who travels on the Trans-Canada Highway & needs a break. 😁 On the grounds there's also this massive wooden sculpture of "Big Joe Mufferaw" who was a famous logging foreman for the Hudson Bay Company, which I thought was impressive :)

Having checked into the Ramada at North Bay with a gorgeous sunshine still out, I ended the day with a beer on the next-door golf club patio. 😊

Next day was absolutely beautiful; not too warm & no wind, so I spent a gorgeous day paddling at Restoule provincial park. Before getting there though, I had just let someone overtake me (which I often do when I want to drive leisurely without the pressure of a local behind me) when suddenly a bear crossed over the road, literally just a few meters in front of the car before me! Luckily, we all managed to brake in time without crashing but it just shows how unpredictable & dangerous wildlife can be (why did it not stay on its side when it got spooked??). There's something to be said not to be the first car in a series & better to let someone else take the risk.

Restoule's "gem" is 100m high Stormy Lake Bluff but I trusted that the view would be undoubtedly pretty, and instead went straight for the water. There are several day paddling loops suggested so I combined three of them for a total loop of around 12.5km; first into a river, then to the large "Elephant" erratic boulder left by glaciers, through some narrow channels around a few islands (for which I needed to remove my fin as it got stuck on the plant roots) and then finally in front of the bluff. I had been thinking to go for a swim but instead cooled down my feet in the water... paradise! 😎🌞

After a refreshing shower, I walked along North Bay's Golden Mile waterfront on Lake Nipissing, (finally) had a patio dinner on the water at the Boat and then watched the sun set... this is summer!

Next, I'll be passing by Sudbury and Sault Ste Marie and then camp for 8 nights in various provincial parks on the way to Thunder Bay, so there will be radio silence for a while until I can reconnect to wifi, over 1,000 km west from here. Hoping for some great summer weather! 💖💖💖

Wildlife: 1 bear, 1 heron (Restoule)

SUPs: one at Barron Canyon, one at Restoule

Hikes: one at Shaw Woods, one at Barron Canyon, one at Driftwood

[kingstondental]

When to take the kids to the dentist - Tips from a dentist in Kingston Ontario

A Comprehensive Guide to Taking Care of Your Child's Oral Health in Kingston, Ontario

As a parent in Kingston, Ontario, you want the best for your child, and that includes their oral health. Taking care of your child's teeth and gums from an early age is crucial to ensure a healthy, happy smile for years to come. And if you're in need of a family dentist or emergency dental service in Kingston, LightHouse Dental Kingston is here to help.

About LightHouse Dental Kingston

LightHouse Dental Kingston is a family dentist office and emergency dental service located at 1716 Bath Rd, Kingston, ON K7M 4Y2. We are open seven days a week, including weekends, and we are always accepting new dental patients. Our mission is to provide quality dental care in a comfortable and friendly environment. We strive to make every visit to our office a positive experience for both you and your child.

When to Visit LightHouse Dental Kingston

It's important to visit the dentist regularly to maintain good oral health. As a general rule, it's time for a dental visit when your baby's first tooth appears or they reach 12 months old - whichever comes first. However, if you notice anything unusual before this time, it's better to be safe than sorry and book an appointment straight away. Regular dental visits every six months are essential for your child's oral health.

If you're in need of emergency dental care, LightHouse Dental Kingston is here to help. We understand that dental emergencies can happen at any time, and we offer emergency dental services to address urgent dental needs. Our office is open Monday to Thursday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm and Friday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Our Services

At LightHouse Dental Kingston, we offer a range of dental services to meet the needs of your entire family. Our services include:

Dental check-ups and cleanings

Fluoride treatments

Dental fillings

Tooth extractions

Root canals

Dental crowns and bridges

Teeth whitening

Emergency dental services

Our team of experienced and friendly dental professionals is dedicated to providing personalized care to each of our patients.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Child's Teeth

In addition to regular dental visits, there are many things you can do at home to take care of your child's teeth. Here are some tips:

Start cleaning your baby's mouth even before their first tooth appears. You can use a soft, damp cloth to wipe their gums.

When your child's first tooth appears, start brushing it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Supervise them until they are old enough to do it themselves.

Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Offer your child water or milk instead of juice or soda.

Make sure your child gets enough fluoride. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay and can be found in tap water, fluoride toothpaste, and fluoride treatments at the dentist's office.

Encourage your child to eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Conclusion

Taking care of your child's oral health is essential for their overall health and well-being. Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene habits, and a healthy diet can help prevent tooth decay and other oral health problems. And if you're in Kingston, Ontario, LightHouse Dental Kingston is here to help. Don't wait too long to take your child to the dentist - make that appointment today and help ensure that they have a healthy, happy smile for years to come!

Contact LightHouse Dental Kingston at 613-777-5151 or email us at kingston@lighthousedental.ca to schedule an appointment. Our office is conveniently located on Bath Rd, and we offer flexible appointment times to accommodate your busy schedule.

To learn more about our services, visit our website at https://www.kingston.lighthousedental.ca/. You can also follow us on social media for updates and oral health tips. Connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LightHouseDentalKingston/, Instagram at https://instagram.com/lighthousedentalkingston/, and LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/lighthouse-dental-kingston-dentists/. You can also subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGIAqIryhNRQ00JMAPLpqdQ.

At LightHouse Dental Kingston, we're committed to providing quality dental care to our patients. Whether you're in need of a routine check-up or emergency dental care, we're here to help. Trust us to take care of your child's oral health needs and ensure that they have a healthy, happy smile for years to come.

[thesmaku]

I went out to the park over the weekend and was caught in a sudden snow squall that took me by surprise. It came all of a sudden but I was well prepared with my camera in hand. . The first image shows the snow falling diagonally because the wind gusts were so strong and the snow was falling so heavily. I did a long exposure of about 1/20sec. to blur the falling snow. . The second image divides the image in half showing the left hand in snow and the right as if it wasn’t snowing at all. . The last image shows the bright blue sky that showed up only moments after the snow stopped falling. That’s Toronto weather for you. . Happy first day of spring everyone! . #awalkinthepark #toronto #snowday #longexposure #nikonCreators #nikon #nikonAmbassador #torontoartist #torontoartists #artistsofig #canadianartist #canadianartists #firstdayofspring (at Toronto, Ontario) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqA0AvbOkSe/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=