Harvie: Howdy
changed username to Lady Rin Lady Rin: hi Harvie
Lady Rin changed username to Rinomatic Harvie: Hi, I thought it would be richard
Rinomatic changed username to Rin-o-matic Rin-o-matic: I know....I don't know how I beat him to it Harvie: That was a quick change of name Rin-o-matic: yeah....since I haven't been on in a while just as myself I'm not sure what name to use :-) Harvie: Did you get a puter?
Rin-o-matic changed username to Ginger Ginger: not yet I am currently visiting in Windsor Ginger: so I'm on my brother's
moved to room Meeting Place
changed username to rich-c
moved to room Meeting Place rich-c: howdy folks
changed username to Dr.D. Ginger: hi Uncle Richard Ginger: Hi Rich Harvie: They are coming hot and heavy now Dr.D.: Oops, looks like I have the wrong name. rich-c: hello Rich see I beat you in by 3 seconds!
Dr.D. changed username to The Professor Ginger: hehehehe Ginger: nice The Professor: Now we can play Gilligan's Island. Ginger: very nice
moved to room Meeting Place The Professor: Harvie, you look like a Skipper type to me. The Professor: And Richard can be Mr. Howell. The Professor: :-) Ginger: LOL
changed username to George Harvie: Ok little buddy rich-c: never saw teh movie so I'm lost The Professor: Movie nothing, 60s sitcom. rich-c: hello George George: hi Everyone Ginger: hi George The Professor: Hi George. The Professor: Is it hot enough for all of you? rich-c: oh, I wouldn't know - didnt watch sitcoms either rich-c: don't even ask The Professor: 90+ F here all day (mid-30s C for you Celsius folk). Ginger: not quite a little more and I'll be happy Harvie: Much the same here Doc er Prof rich-c: unfortunately we have a gasoline smell around teh house and having all the windows closed was real upsetting rich-c: I was getting a gasoline sniffer's high, or something The Professor: Gasoline? The Professor: Whence? rich-c: well, some sort of petroleum smell, can't tell what - like what you get from floor wax rich-c: and havent a clue as to where it is coming from, either
moved to room Meeting Place
changed username to Guy B. Guy B.: Greetings!!!! rich-c: hello Guy, you're early tonight The Professor: Hello Guy. Harvie: Hello Guy Ginger: hi Guy The Professor: Could be just the heat making some plastic smell somewhere...do you have linoleum anywhere? Guy B.: Decided to check the e-mail first. Now, I got some guiy named Yanga who doesn't know anything about the emulator and he wants to know how to convert Smartwriter files to MS-Word. rich-c: no, none of teh obvious things, Rich - and very strong The Professor: You don't have a fuel-oil furnace, do you? rich-c: electric The Professor: Any gas stashed in the basement, or the garage? rich-c: no Harvie: Neighbours perhaps? rich-c: nope, outside seems pretty clear rich-c: trust me, Rich. we've looked pretty thoroughly rich-c: unless the Meteor has suddenly sprung a leak, that's about it Harvie: What about a neighbour staining wood? The Professor: Then I am stumped. rich-c: it seems to be inside teh house and we did find some paint remover with a loose cap Harvie: Over to Arlene Dahl The Professor: Hope it isn't your bionic hip melting :-) Ginger: haha very funny rich-c: the main issue is that I had a cold over teh weekend that got seriously bad, hurt my breathing Ginger: how are you feeling now Uncle R rich-c: so now I'm on four new additional meds all of which have side effects Ginger: ? The Professor: If I didn't know for sure that he doesn't use it, I would say, melting Brylcream :-) George: walk around with a lighted match The Professor: I can see the headlines now... rich-c: and it leaves me at teh moment a bit woozy with a wibbly feel in the stomach
moved to room Meeting Place rich-c: I am not, for now, a happy camper ;-( The Professor: If it gets too bad, by all means get out and stay overnight in a motel somewhere.
changed username to BobS Guy B.: Seems that the weather has effected me yesterday. BobS: AYe mates Ginger: Hi Bobs! rich-c: oh, the cold front is through now, all teh windows are open, and matters are improving fast rich-c: hello Robert George: hi Bob The Professor: Hi Bob. Harvie: Howdy Bobby Guy B.: It's much better here too. BobS: ALLO, Richard....a/c broke?????? rich-c: no, other issues, Bob Guy B.: King Bob. Going to have my deposit for you shortly. BobS: COOL mon The Professor: We finally fired our AC up this evening, we will see if it is broken or not. rich-c: relate to a cold and respiratory difficulties over the weekend Ginger: wow do I feel out numbered :-) BobS: we were threatening to turn it on tonight IF the warm spell didn't break, but it appears to be cooling down now The Professor: Yeah, finally more Yanks than Canadians tonight. BobS: a, bummer Richard Guy B.: Had mine on for the first time this year. Only for the dog. We went only for a short walk. Today we went for a longer one, then it started to rain. Only lasted a few minutes. Ginger: that's not it Ginger: I'm the only chick Ginger: :-) Guy B.: So far. rich-c: among other things it got Frances all fuss3ed and persuaded her to cancel her plans to go to Windsor this weekend BobS: chickens ???????WHERE ???????? Ginger: hehe The Professor: No lie, I saw an Ohio license plate yesterday that said CNDN EH Ginger: that it too cool!!!!
moved to room Meeting Place rich-c: not surprised - there's a lot of immigration both ways
changed username to Sweatin in T.O. BobS: AND free trade, eh??? rich-c: yes, they are still working on free trade in jobs, though Guy B.: Ok, we have a mystery person here. BobS: buying $9000 CA worth of aluminum deck railings out of Windsor (made in Toronto) and just "bring them across the border" Sweatin in T.O.: c'mon Guy, I'm no mystery rich-c: I'd say it's more likely two people and Rie isn't alone any more Harvie: I'll bet it's Pam Guy B.: Pam? Sweatin in T.O.: very good The Professor: Mystery person? Ginger: hi Pam Guy B.: You had us fooled there. The Professor: Ah, Sweat. The Professor: P.U. Sweatin in T.O.: no, I am one head and one body tody Guy B.: Can't be hot there is it? Ginger: that's why she can't spell rich-c: where's teh other half of teh team? The Professor: So then Rin got her new computer, Richard? Sweatin in T.O.: in Windsor, remember? BobS: it's a "tag" team Richard Sweatin in T.O.: where I'm heading tomorrow? rich-c: oh, did she go down ahead? I thought she was going with you tomorrow Harvie: Lady rin aka Rin-O-Matic aka Ginger Ginger: yeah..hehe....Harvie got the first three ideas The Professor: (I was presuming that Ginger = Rin) The Professor: Rin-O-Matic LOL. Sweatin in T.O.: Erin, wanna fill them in? The Professor: I like cherry pie filling... Ginger: When I came on I didn't know what to call myself Ginger: it's been so long Sweatin in T.O.: how about Erin the Red? The Professor: So you are not on your own new computer, then. rich-c: and no Rich, I've been too ill to work on the computer for Erin :-( The Professor: Sorry to hear...jeez Richard, maybe you need to seek medical attention. Ginger: it's ok Uncle Richard :-) Sweatin in T.O.: Rin are you at home? Ginger: ETR has been done Ginger: yes I am rich-c: I was at teh doctor Monday; he gave me four new prescriptions - I rattle when I walk now The Professor: Four?!? Sweatin in T.O.: are Graeme and Brie home, can you tell? BobS: you a druggie, then Richard?\ Ginger: Pam...I'm not happy with you Ginger: they are Sweatin in T.O.: why? The Professor: <smirk> Ginger: you didn't warn me about HP 2 The Professor: What about HP2?
(Guy B. gives Sweatin in T.O. a can of Diet Coke.) Ginger: Nobody told me about the SPIDERS!!!!! Sweatin in T.O.: what about it? Oh, you mean the spiders? The Professor: Spock dies at the end, you remember. Sweatin in T.O.: sorry, darlin The Professor: Ginger no like spiders? Sweatin in T.O.: didn't think of it - thye' Ginger: I had to leave the room...almost hyperventilated Sweatin in T.O.: they're not one of my phobias The Professor: Ouch. Ginger: my biggest phobia The Professor: Have you always been afraid of them? rich-c: an antibiotic, a corticosteroid, a bronchodilator, forget teh other Ginger: I have in recent years just taught myself how to kill them Ginger: always The Professor: Wonder what the antibiotic is for... Sweatin in T.O.: bronchial infection, I suspect The Professor: The middle 2 I can understand. The Professor: Ah. Sweatin in T.O.: how are you feeling Dad? Guy B.: Got a question for you all. Anyone need a little more help with the emulator or the utilities? rich-c: head off pneumonia - I was having t4ouble breathing The Professor: Wow. rich-c: Had the x-ray Monday but apparently it didn't show anything catastrophic rich-c: I have anothr appointment next Monday Sweatin in T.O.: how's your breathing been, Erin? Ginger: good Sweatin in T.O.: oh, and by the way everyone, Hi BobS: ALWAYS Guy....IF you are talking convention, you are NOW penciled in Sweatin in T.O.: forgot that when I arrived The Professor: Erin's breathing? Is she sick, too? Ginger: no I'm fine rich-c: yes, hi daughter, you did sort of come in at teh middle! Ginger: but smog can be an issue Harvie: Athsma? Ginger: yep Sweatin in T.O.: asthma, Harvie : ) Harvie: Doh Sweatin in T.O.: that's okay, lotsa practice Guy B.: I have some guy that e-mailed me through the AdamEm Utilities e-mail wanting to know how to extract the utilities, run the emulator, convert between the disk images and the Adam disks and now the topper. He wants to know how to convert Smartwriter files so they can read by Word. Now hows that for an e-mail! The Professor: Probably a translation to RTF would be the best way... rich-c: well, that's a nice little challenge, Guy The Professor: God only knows what the internal format of a genuine Word document is. rich-c: there is a way if I recall to convert Smartwriter files to simple ASCII text files Guy B.: That e-mail was nearly a full page. So, I'm going to outline in Word on what he needs to do. BobS: well.............think the conversion can be done as a text based file, yes????? rich-c: and from there any text reader should be able to read them The Professor: That's the other choice...but with RTF you might be able to keep simple formatting, if SmartWriter shows anything like underline. The Professor: IIRC something like SpeedyWrite can do more stuff like that, but it assumes writing to a dot-matric printer. Guy B.: I thought of two ways. One using modem to modem transfer. The other either by Adam Connection or the AdamDos utilities that Chris Brayman did some years ago. rich-c: Smartwriter to RTF would be really convenient, but it isn't possible, is it? Guy B.: I did try copying the text from Speedywrite to Word, but I get the entire graphics with it. So, that won't work. The Professor: I don't see why not...RTF is a published spec, and someone somewhere has hacked into SmartWriter formats. The Professor: I think that it's even given in the ADAM Technical Manual. rich-c: even if teh information is there, that doesn't mean teh needed tool has been written The Professor: Of course it hasn't been written...but I think it would be an afternoon's work if you knew the specs. Guy B.: So, I'm going to try to help this guy out. So, my other project is on hold again. rich-c: still, finding a willing and able volunteer might be a bit of a challenge, too BobS: aw, Guy, you are just a pushover for a good cause Sweatin in T.O.: Dad, does Mom have anything for me to take with me tomorrow? The Professor: I can't do it until after Monday: I have a lab seminar to give Friday, and my summer robot course starts Monday. rich-c: I will ask her Pam Sweatin in T.O.: thanks rich-c: she says no Guy B.: Maybe I am. But, I hate when someone doesn't have a clue on what to do. But, knows how to use the computer and the Internet to communicate. BobS: got cha Sweatin in T.O.: okay rich-c: yes, and if our community can't help him, no one can so it is in our laps Guy B.: Exactly Sweatin in T.O.: Bob, I've been meaning to ask you - why is the registration deadline so far ahead of the convention this year? BobS: what is it????? rich-c: Pam, Sunday June 27 there's a computer flea market in Downsview Park BobS: ought to know, yes????? rich-c: be a good place to pick up memory or a used drive cheap Sweatin in T.O.: July first, I believe Guy B.: By the way, going back to school is on hold for now. Sweatin in T.O.: I'm not sure we'll be in town that day, Dad rich-c: whatever - I think I may try to attend
Sweatin in T.O. changed username to Frazzled Pammie rich-c: Guy, are you going with that Univ. of Phoenix deal? Guy B.: I sent for more information on it. Frazzled Pammie: I'll let you know Dad - Russell's schedule is supposed to change that weekend but I don't know exactly when or where we'll be BobS: NAW, it is only paid in full by July 1st to get a FREE tshirt.......after that, no free tshirt, but registration is still open BobS: the free tshirt is a great looking gimmick in the form we use year after year, don't ya think???? Guy B.: Why not throw in a free raffle ticket instead of a t-shirt. Frazzled Pammie: okay, I just wondered why by July first - makes sense when the con is at beginning of August but seems kinda far ahead for end of September. Just wondering, is all Ginger: speaking of raffle I should check my lottery ticket BobS: whatever makes you happy Guy..........YOU HEARD IT HERE 1st !!!!!!! Frazzled Pammie: bloody hell, I was gonna buy a ticket today and forgot! Guy B.: It was a suggestion hombre. BobS: paid in full by July 1st, gets a FREE raffle ticket for the grand prize also !!!!! Frazzled Pammie: so what's the grand prize? I know, a T shirt, right ? The Professor: Money in advance helps pay da bills. Guy B.: There we go. The Professor: (Spoken as a past ADAMcon chairman) BobS: NO, usually the afghan that Jean donates rich-c: Pam, your computer can take up to 256MB of SDRAM 100MHz Frazzled Pammie: yes, and I only have 64 at the moment Guy B.: Now, do we know if the hotel has broadband like it was in Courtney or do we all use dialup?
moved to room Meeting Place The Professor: Packet-switched carrier pigeons.
changed username to Judy rich-c: any idea how many slots you have? Guy B.: Hi Judy Frazzled Pammie: four Ginger: hi Judy Frazzled Pammie: hey Judy rich-c: hi Judy Judy: howdy all BobS: Jean was going to talk to them, but we probably won't know till we get there......they do have, I believe, a free use highspeed area set aside for guests Harvie: Hello Mrs.S Judy: how is everyone? Frazzled Pammie: someone has set off a car alarm here that sounds like an anemic siren. It's getting da**ed annoying. Guy B.: I'll bring both my PC Enternet card any my modem for the notebook. BobS: chill out pammie Frazzled Pammie: anyone got a shotgun? BobS: or you gonna need the guys in chite shirts Frazzled Pammie: can't chill Bob, no A/C in yet : )
(BobS hugs Frazzled Pammie) The Professor: That will make her even hotter, Bob :-) rich-c: you and Russell better get wrestling with it soon, Pam
(Guy B. gives Frazzled Pammie a can of Diet Coke.) BobS: white Judy: why are you sooo frazzled, Pam? Guy B.: That's two for you Pam.
(Frazzled Pammie hugs BobS) BobS: tank YA Frazzled Pammie: I'm leaving for Windsor tomorrow morning Judy - I'm not packed, I don't know where I'm sleeping, I don't have a packing list and I'm sure I've misplaced at least half the stuff I want to take. Frazzled Pammie: plus, there's this car alarm . . . George: who cut me off? Frazzled Pammie: thanks, Guy The Professor: You need a packing list? The Professor: Throw some clothes in suitcase and go... rich-c: did you get dumped, George? Guy B.: Maybe you did George Frazzled Pammie: next Tuesday, Dad BobS: throw some stuff in a suitcase and wing it. dear The Professor: Travel light. Judy: you could always pack like me, take everything Frazzled Pammie: that's the problem - I don't have enough room for everything! Judy: sometimes the suitcase gets awfully heavy Frazzled Pammie: hence, the packing list George: i'm sending cookies to everyone rich-c: George, I've discoverd if you brush teh wrong keyboard key by mistake, you can dump yourself Judy: send it in the mail Guy B.: How long are going to be staying Pam? Frazzled Pammie: gotta have shorts cause it's supposed to get hot, dressy clothes for the grad ceremony - oh! The Professor: What kind of cookies? rich-c: maybe that's your problems, George, my computer rejects cookies rather violently Frazzled Pammie: sorry, thought for the list Judy: whose graduation?> George: all sent Guy B.: Make sure your browser has cookies Enabled. Frazzled Pammie: Erin's brother Graeme and his wife Sabrina are both graduating from St. Clair College on Friday George: all received Frazzled Pammie: no cookies for me George, thanks Judy: we can't have any, still on a diet Guy B.: I haven't had any in a long time. rich-c: long as your browser is set to reject, Pam, you won't get any George: silent cookies Judy: the Bob has lost 35 pounds, not bad, hey Frazzled Pammie: unless they're chocolate chip, I'm not interested : ) The Professor: Have some T-bone cookies :-) Frazzled Pammie: from where?? Guy B.: Way to go Bob! The Professor: If carbs you are avoiding. Ginger: brb The Professor: But I think those diets are all fads... rich-c: that's good going, Bob, I know it isn't easy George: no I have T-bone steaks Frazzled Pammie: oh hey, Dad and Harvie, have you looked at the cookie selections at Loblaws recently? BobS: IT IS KILLING ME Judy: I only lost 17, way behind Bob BobS: the mere sight of food is depressing Guy B.: They think that this carb diet won't last long. But, that doesn't stop companies from introducing low card stuff. The Professor: Indeed, Guy. George: 16 oz. t-bones BobS: jsur eat less and esercise more Guy B.: Now I heard wine is next. Judy: we are not on that, Guy
moved to room Meeting Place The Professor: Evil Ratbert from Dilbert should come out with the "Barn Siding Diet" -- eat nothing but barn siding to lose weight.
changed username to rich-c2 Guy B.: That's what I'm doing, plus one 10 year old dog taking me for a long walks. Judy: we can't go anywhere that our bikes don't take us Frazzled Pammie: get dumped Dad? The Professor: Publish a book...have tapes and DVDs...and suckers will buy it and say it tastes great and works! rich-c2: seems it was my turn to get dumped Frazzled Pammie: must make grocery shopping hard Judy : )
(Ginger gives Ginger a can of Coke) Ginger: well Pepsi actually The Professor: No Dr. Pepper? Frazzled Pammie: hey Erin, have you seen the Insiders report? Ginger: huh? Guy B.: Coke, no Pepsi. Cheezborger, cheezborger, cheezborger. rich-c2: don't tell her, it's bad for the waistline Judy: no, easier, you buy less Ginger: no....no Dr. Pepper BobS: WINE??????? I'll take some !!!!!!! George: puree of sea slug Ginger: ewwwww The Professor: Mmmm, Aplysia au jus. rich-c2: I thought Rich served it as a consomme The Professor: With a side of truffles. Judy: we rode our bikes to coffee Sat morning and for supper at night The Professor: Slug-kebabs, now playing at a grill near you. Guy B.: Thought I let you all know that Abby's paw is all healed up. BobS: Dr D.........that's NASTY Frazzled Pammie: the Presidents Choice Insiders report has announced that they're bringing out "PC New Wave Cola" - supposed to taste like Pepsi Judy: I found a dandy slug in the yard yesterday, wouldn Guy B.: Heard the Coke is coming out with a low carb cola. Judy: 't want to eat it though The Professor: How about water with food coloring in it? rich-c2: we've pretty much lost our slugs since we got teh snails Guy B.: Oh, do I remember doing that. George: better than Reagan kebabs Frazzled Pammie: ick, I'd skip the food colouring The Professor: haha George. Frazzled Pammie: c'mon Dad - now they're not homeless slugs : ) rich-c2: they keep holding races up teh side of the composter Judy: you have snails in the yard, Rich? Guy B.: When I was in scouts. We did a skit that involved liquer. So, we took some bottles with water and used food coloring to make it look like the real thing. Judy: we have snails in the pond The Professor: I have only ever seen one snail in the grass here. rich-c2: we have snails like there's no tomorrow, Judy - like a gorss or two? The Professor: And that was after a very very wet spring...the same spring I found some spotted salamanders while mowing the lawn. rich-c2: gross The Professor: Slugs aplenty though.
Frazzled Pammie requested to ban rich-c
Harvie confirmed ban
BobS confirmed ban
The Professor confirmed ban
rich-c2 confirmed ban George: slurp slurp Frazzled Pammie: wow, it's cooling off rich-c2: yes, temperature has been dropping since about 4 p.m. George: burp! Frazzled Pammie: no, it's really cooling off! I just went into the LR and got a COOL breeze - not just a slightly less warm one
Guy B. confirmed ban George: fan on high rich-c2: I know, we've had the windows open since dinner time Guy B.: A lot better here in Chicago. Boy, it was muggy yesterday. Frazzled Pammie: they were threatening us with t-storms, but it looks like we've dodged the bullet Judy: it is much better tonight than last night, we are sitting out on the deck now The Professor: Brief intense thunderstorms here about 6:30 PM? I didn't look exactly at the clock, I was busy. BobS: today was the muggy day here.....86 degrees and humid asn heck Ginger: we had some storms just before and as I was signing on Frazzled Pammie: better living through air conditioning Ginger: gone now, I think Judy: and I was planting flower in the childrens garden all morning Frazzled Pammie: it rained - briefly but hard, but no sound and light show Judy: at Meijer Garden Guy B.: We had some spotty rain here. But, nothing like last month. But, rain is in the forecast through the weekend. rich-c2: yes, the weather radar this afternoon was showing a lot of activity Windsor to London, moving southwest towrds Cleveland Judy: we had very little rain today, and a little in the night Frazzled Pammie: btw Erin, even though it's supposed to cool off I left your A/C on for Schiffer - it's supposed to heat up again by the end of the weekend Ginger: ok thanks......my poo Schiefer Ginger: poor BobS: rain rain, go away......travel to philly Ginger: god can't type Frazzled Pammie: aw, she'll be all right Frazzled Pammie: I'm going to spend some quality time with her tomorrow morning before I leave Frazzled Pammie: hey Rin, here's a question - is your DVD player supposed to be on? George: terrorists bomb Philly railroad bridge rich-c2: so who's your cat-sitter for teh weekend? Lindsay? Ginger: doesn't matter if it is The Professor: Shieffer is a cat? Frazzled Pammie: Russell - Lin's at the trailer Ginger: yes she is Ginger: my kitty Frazzled Pammie: oh, and your phone is flashing - looks like messages Ginger: probably someone's campaign office The Professor: Are you in Rin's apartment, Pam? rich-c2: panicky Liberals reporting teh consequences of their sins Frazzled Pammie: no, I'm at home but I've been in and out twice a day for a week BobS: what a cousin you are !!!!!!!!! WUNERFUL Frazzled Pammie: these are things I forgot to tell her earlier : ) Frazzled Pammie: hey, that's what family is for - to help each other out Frazzled Pammie: no biggie The Professor: I wondered because of the flashing phone. rich-c2: oh Pam heard anything on an election job yet? The Professor: Commissioner Gordon is calling on the Batphone, Rin... Frazzled Pammie: not yet Dad - I was expecting a call today Ginger: I'm Batman Frazzled Pammie: if they're going to call I hope they do it tomorrow before I leave rich-c2: wish you luck - they usually do have trouble getting enough recruits rich-c2: if not Russell should be able to cope for you Frazzled Pammie: actually they'd better call soon - the advance polls are next Friday, Saturday and Monday Frazzled Pammie: if he's home rich-c2: well, you have an answering machine so he can deal from there is required Frazzled Pammie: let's just hope he's awake enough to notice : ) Frazzled Pammie: my sweetie is not at his most awake first thing in the morning BobS: WHAT ?????? another late sleeper rich-c2: sorry folks - I am not feeling too good at the moment rich-c2: I am going to have to call it a night BobS: not good richard Frazzled Pammie: what's wrong, Dad BobS: nite, get well.....and be good Guy B.: OK, Rich. Hope you feel better by Saturday. The Professor: Perhaps a cool bath, Richard? rich-c2: just not up to continuing, Pam - need to lay back a bit The Professor: Put your bathing trunks on and sit in some cool water with a book. The Professor: I do that when I am too hot. Frazzled Pammie: okay. Will call before I leave tomorrow. Feel better, Dad. Ginger: feel better Uncle Richard Frazzled Pammie: g'nite Daddy rich-c2: anyway goodnight all, see you Saturday or next week as applies The Professor: Bye Richard. Harvie: Goodnight rich rich-c2: colour me gone
rich-c2 left chat session George: i need to go too Frazzled Pammie: okay, I'm a bit freaked Guy B.: See you later George Frazzled Pammie: night George George: nite all The Professor: Bye George. Ginger: nite George George: poof
George left chat session Frazzled Pammie: wonder if I should call him The Professor: Forgot to ask George if he saw the Venus transit...I didn't. Harvie: I think the petroleum smell got to him Pam The Professor: If he is overheating, then he needs to get cooled down. Frazzled Pammie: huh? what did I miss? The Professor: If it is a bad smell, then maybe you should go over and sniff yourself. The Professor: Richard says there is a strong gasoline-type smell in the house that is making him queasy. The Professor: He doesn't know whence it comes. Frazzled Pammie: ahhhh - okay, now I understand. Frazzled Pammie: my girlfriend said they were doing something to the house next door (which is for sale). I wonder if that's it. The Professor: What "something"? Harvie: Witchcraft Judy: burning it down> The Professor: Wingardium leviosa! Frazzled Pammie: dunno - she was very vague, but it had something to do with siding, which is apparently piled on my parents front lawn. Could be petroleum based undercoating or vapour barrier Frazzled Pammie: what are you levitating, Professor? Judy: why on their lawn? Frazzled Pammie: dunno that either BobS: wsell, you sure don't know much girl The Professor: Trying to levitate Ginger... Frazzled Pammie: heck, Bob, I got it second hand from my girlfriend, who passed by quickly on the way to her parents place around the corner Ginger: levitate me? The Professor: ...she can float up and get some dates and coconuts from the trees... Ginger: riiiiight The Professor: I can't climb up with this leg :-) Frazzled Pammie: how about "accio coconuts"? The Professor: It's either levitate you or build a ladder. The Professor: I failed accio. The Professor: It keeps coming out atchoo! and the stuff blows further away. Frazzled Pammie: what, no O.W.L.s? The Professor: I have a G.E.D. :-) Frazzled Pammie: did you go to see HP 3? The Professor: Yes, last Friday night. Frazzled Pammie: and? The Professor: Ehhhhh. Frazzled Pammie: what???????? Frazzled Pammie: expand, please The Professor: Really didn't like some stuff. The Professor: Hard to do without spoiling it. Frazzled Pammie: I'm gonna see it regardless so go ahead The Professor: Well, there are others here... Judy: how is the leg, Dr D? Ginger: I have no intention -- another down The Professor: Well, there are more spiders in it, Ginger. The Professor: Leg is about full strength again, but it feels creaky and twitchy at the end of the day. Ginger: see...not happening for me...I'll wait until the DVD so I can go hide under my stuffed animals The Professor: And there is a persistent feeling of something being inside the calf that is just a bit annoying. Judy: that has to do with age, Dr D The Professor: I never had it before the injury, and the left leg doesn't have any of it. BobS: OLDE age Frazzled Pammie: give it time, Rich Harvie: Scar tissue? Guy B.: Don't want to think about that yet. The Professor: That is what I keep telling myself, I *don't* want to forget and injure it again. The Professor: It is probably just the scar tissue and deep healing. Judy: would not be a good idea BobS: but me boy, tis soming i tell ya The Professor: The outline of the leg is not symmetric with the uninjured leg. Judy: has lumps and bumps? The Professor: Still a bit of swelling most likely, or redistribution of muscle mass downstream of the tear. The Professor: No, it is a smooth outline, fortunately. The Professor: That is one way the orthopaedist knows (without MRI) that the tear is deep inside, not superficial. The Professor: If it were superficial, there would be a divot visible. Frazzled Pammie: ick, Rich Ginger: owwie The Professor: Well, it's the truth, Pam. BobS: aw..........poor Joan will have to put up with you aging bod Frazzled Pammie: I know, and I find most medical stuff fascinating - it's just a lot less fascinating when it's someone you know BobS: join the crowd Dr D Ginger: well folks....I think I hear thunder.....so it's time for me to go The Professor: I merely note the aging bod, I am not trying to undo it, Bob. BobS: WHOA...........storms are not good Ginger: have a good night all The Professor: I think it is still mostly functional :-) Judy: or yourself, don't like the fascinating BobS: be good rin Ginger: see you tomorrow Pam Guy B.: Must be a doozy. Bye Rin. Frazzled Pammie: night Rin - anything I need to bring? The Professor: Don't leave me on the island, Ginger! :-) BobS: lots of booze Ginger: nope just yourself is fine The Professor: Bye Rin. BobS: to celebrate with Judy: bye Rin Harvie: Goodnight Erin The Professor: Booze? tsk tsk Frazzled Pammie: okay - will see you about 3:00 or 4:00 depending on traffic Ginger: Sorry Professor...but have to hide from the storms Ginger: night Harvie Frazzled Pammie: will let yhou know if I leave earlier Ginger: alright Pam The Professor: Okay, hope you have room under the bed next to the dust bunnies. The Professor: Or the monsters... Frazzled Pammie: night sweetie Ginger: nite nite
moved to room Meeting Place
Ginger left chat session BobS: professor..............WHERE'S Marianne?????????
changed username to Ron Judy: it is clouding up here but no rain, yet Harvie: That's where the spiders are Guy B.: Hi Ron Frazzled Pammie: hi Ron Ron: hi all! BobS: the wet coaster !!!!!!! The Professor: Hello Ron. Frazzled Pammie: you just missed Erin BobS: how doin?????? Ron: aww Harvie: Hello Ron Judy: hi, Ron The Professor: Mary Ann is baking a coconut-cream pie. Ron: not bad for a 60 year old eh? BobS: today ????? Ron: Hi Judy Frazzled Pammie: is that today Ron? Ron: no, April 10.... but it still hits me now and then Judy: how is the island, life? The Professor: April 10...that is Theta Chi Fraternity's Founder's Day. Frazzled Pammie: okay - can I get some advice on 39 then? Ron: Well, right at the moment we have two doe in the back yard The Professor: April 10th, 1856. Ron: was taking pics when I remembered what time it was BobS: happy belated birthday to you.........probably we celebrated it here, but are too old to remember......... BobS: COOL Ron: tks Ron: They've been out there for the better part of 3 hours Judy: how cool, we only have fish Frazzled Pammie: how very neat Ron BobS: drinkin out of the pool ? BobS: or grazin in the grass ? Ron: not yet, but they're helping themselves to my cedum leaves Harvie: Get a salt lick and they will arrive regularly Frazzled Pammie: is that good or bad Ron? Ron: probably the same pair that ate my bedding plants 4 days ago for breakfast The Professor: How do deer get to the island? Ron: Now that's an interesting question Dr. D Frazzled Pammie: take the ferry : ) Ron: right Harvie: Queen of Nanaimo Judy: that is the pits!!! Ron: yeah, the bedding plants hadn't even been planted The Professor: Have they always been there, or do they move back and forth from the mainland? BobS: do they need tickets ??????? The Professor: Or passports? Ron: pretty much always here, so far as I know.... although I wouldn't be surprised if one of our forefathers had introduced them at some time Harvie: Deer can swim Judy: was planting today at Meijer Garden in the new childrens garden, hasn't opened yet Ron: They live mostly around the golf course downtown, but the get around Frazzled Pammie: planitng what Judy? Ron: what, 45km Harvie? Judy: flowers BobS: ok so they have to like swimming Judy: perenials and annuals Ron: annuals Ron: went out and bought some more Harvie: Isn't there a narrows to the north? Ron: Yes, Harvie that's true. There are places where it narrows to 10 miles or less Judy: soooooooooooo many flowers, unreal Ron: neighbour said to put garlic plants in the bed. The deer don't like that Frazzled Pammie: you were planting in this heat Judy? Ron: So now we'll have deer with bad breath Judy: supposed to be finished Friday, don't see that it is possible with that much left to go Frazzled Pammie: plant some parsley too Ron : ) Ron: good idea Judy: yes, was not great, but when you say youare coming you go BobS: sir......could you leave a little grench dressing out on the stoop also ??????? Plain greens are slightly tasteless Judy: we were finished with our shift at noon, was very hot BobS: french Frazzled Pammie: still, you like the heat, don't you Frazzled Pammie: ranch dressing Bob Ron: I sure enjoyed Meijer Garden Ron: lovely place Judy: yes, I do, but was even a little hot for me Ron: Do they pay you for that Judy, or are you a volunteer? BobS: oh ok Judy: no pay Frazzled Pammie: ah yes, you got to play tourist for a little while last time, didn't you Ron: yup - thanks to the Slopsema clan BobS: NO PAY< NO GAIN.........right ????? Frazzled Pammie: me, all I got was a tour of the mall : )
(BobS groans loudly) Frazzled Pammie: that's a groaner, Bob
(Guy B. gives BobS a can of cranberry soda) BobS: oh we3ll it IS late you know BobS: TANKS Guy Judy: next time you should see the garden, not as good as the one by Ron, though Ron: They also took me to a planetarium - seats were so comfortable, I fell asleep Frazzled Pammie: enjoy it Bob, it's my favourite - very refreshing : ) Ron: that's gratitude for ya Judy: we all did, Ron BobS: Bouchard Gardens Ron: Butchart Frazzled Pammie: Butchart Gardens? Frazzled Pammie: I've been there The Professor: Planetaria are fun. Frazzled Pammie: beautiful place Frazzled Pammie: we don't have one anymore : ( Ron: Yes, I want to see the end of the program they were running. So I must go back Frazzled Pammie: a planetarium, I mean BobS: even better now Pam Frazzled Pammie: shall have to find some time to come and see, Bob BobS: think it was a hypnotist version Ron that is why we ALL fell asleep Judy: you think you would see it the second time, Ron? Frazzled Pammie: and go shopping : ) Ron: oh absolutely BobS: SHOPPING.........above ALL else Judy: in the dark you are supposed to go to sleep Frazzled Pammie: well, I need stuff I can't get in Toronto Ron: Well, I was in such a state, that I almost fell asleep outside on those little cars they were using to take us around the grounds BobS: WHAT ?????? Toronto is the BIG city Ron: Why frazzled, Pammie? Guy B.: Abby is ready for walk before we turn in. So, we are going to get ready for one. I'll see you all either Saturday or next week. Frazzled Pammie: yeah but we don't have Lane Bryant in Canada, or Coldwater Creek, or some US brands Ron: Nite Guy BobS: ok Guy......be good The Professor: Bye Guy. Frazzled Pammie: Night Guy Harvie: Goodnight Guy The Professor: I should probably sign off, too..tomorrow will be a late night. Judy: night Guy Guy B.: Poof
Guy B. left chat session Judy: night Dr The Professor: So, bye to all...travel safely, Pam. Harvie: Pam if Honest Ed hasn't got it, you don't need it :) The Professor: Say hi to Rin when you get there. Ron: be well Dr. D. BobS: well be good Dr D......and don't do anything i wouldn't do......K ?????? Frazzled Pammie: frazzled? I'm leaving for Windsor in the morning, I haven't packed or made a list and the place is in such a state that I won't be able to find half of what I need The Professor: Dunno what you would do, Bob :-) Ron: Do NOT today, that which you can put off 'till tomorrow Frazzled Pammie: night Rich - I will BobS: too old Dr d Harvie: Goodnight Doc Frazzled Pammie: get some sleep for a change : ) The Professor: Yes Mommie. The Professor: Okay, poof!
The Professor left chat session Frazzled Pammie: that's the problem Ron, I'm a procrastinator Judy: how long are you going to be gone, Pam? Ron: twenty to ten, chez the east? Frazzled Pammie: finished my laundry at 9:10 this evening Harvie: Now the Canucks are in the majority again Frazzled Pammie: just till Sunday Juday Frazzled Pammie: oops, Judy Ron: I am also a procrastinator Frazzled Pammie: I've continued shovelling out around here and things are just everywhere Judy: what are you shovelling, Pam? Harvie: As opposed to an amateur crastinator Ron? Frazzled Pammie: however, I am beginning to see a glimmer of floor space here and there BobS: procrastinator= kind, friendly and optimistic person...yes ????? Ron: nothing amateur about my crastinating Frazzled Pammie: yes - one who never does anything before it's time Ron: exactly Ron: must go see where my little friends are....brb Frazzled Pammie: just goes to show you how long I've left this - I'm shredding things from 1998 BobS: bummer......ya like to see the little bambies......BUT BobS: PAM !!!!!!!! Frazzled Pammie: told ya Frazzled Pammie: I've been taking heart from shows like Clean Sweep Judy: how can you stand it, would drive me crazzy BobS: organization is the key.......or at least throw crap out !!!! Frazzled Pammie: it means I'm not the only one out there with a dirty little secret Frazzled Pammie: I am the product of two packrats Judy - I come by it honestly BobS: \ya we all keep unneeded stuff.......but the old phone bill from 1998 ??????? Frazzled Pammie: actually, it was a birthday card I think Judy: we have a lot of stuff but it is put away stuff Frazzled Pammie: we've run out of room to put away - that's part of why I'm doing this Judy: can't stand a mess, just ask Bob Ron: damn! Ron: they've done it again Frazzled Pammie: corallary of Murphy's law: Stuff expands to fill the available space BobS: this sounds NOT food Ron: deer paws all over the garden, and they've eaten most of the Petunia BobS: good Judy: what did they do? BobS: oh to heck with flowers this year Ron
moved to room Meeting Place Frazzled Pammie: may I suggest indoor potted plants, Ron? Ron: I guess I'm not destined to have flowers this year
changed username to bair Frazzled Pammie: hello Bair Ron: right Pam BobS: hey Bob !!!!!!! Ron: Mr Bair BobS: welcome back sir
Frazzled Pammie changed username to Pam bair: hi every one BobS: felt sorry for us didn't ya ???? Pam: how are you Bob? BobS: oh Pam,,,,,I am fine....... Judy: there are some plants that they do not like, don't remember which ones. had them set out at one of the nurserys near here Harvie: Hello Bob bair: ok I guess BobS: OH, wrong Bob
moved to room Meeting Place
changed username to chick pea Pam: I'll bet if you do some research you'll be able to find deer-proof plants without too much trouble, Ron Judy: hi, Bob Pam: Hi Rie chick pea: hi every1 BobS: RIE BobS: hi your own self Pam: how are you doing, sweetie? Judy: Hi, Marie chick pea: hello hello chick pea: i could be better Ron: That, Pam, is the only advise garden gurus give: plant things the deer don't lie Pam: yeah, I heard bair: why would I feel sorry for you BobS: and that would be..........what Ron ????? chick pea: i hear ur comming tomorrow Ron: I had a list around here somewhere chick pea: what time did rin leave?? Pam: yes, ETA about 3:00 ish Harvie: Lead Ron chick pea: coo coo Judy: the trouble is that no one tells the deer what they don't like Pam: about 20 minutes ago chick pea: i'll be around later on tomoorw night to say hi BobS: Bob, poor ron is having deer problems.........they are eating all his flowers Ron: right Judy. I could try posting a list in the garden I suppose chick pea: i have a pic of Jas and I for u Pam: cool. I'm sleeping at Graeme and Brie's place - there are rumours of a cut throat game of Trivial Pursuit Judy: but do they read Ron: no bair: Hey I tell the deer where they can go and can't they don't listen chick pea: oic BobS: see, they are a deaf bunch !!!!!!!! chick pea: i'll track u down Harvie: The means of delivering the lead is the secret Pam: ah yes - note to self - take TP cards
(BobS winks) Ron: Just had two in the back yard, Bob for the better part of two or three hours Judy: glad we don't have that problem chick pea: lol Pam: when did you get the pics, Rie? chick pea: anywa si better jeyt i have to get up earliy in the morning for skeeters' graduation bair: I have something in my closet they better listen to chick pea: there from a galla Ron: illegal to discharge firearms - what I need is a proficient archer Pam: wonderful! I found some pictures of you but they're ancient chick pea: from? Pam: I need a replacement BobS: well Ron..........these here deer were vacationing you see.......and they couldn't get any further west, so they just stopped at our place Pam: lessee, high school, the prom Ron: a replacement what? Pam: picture of Marie chick pea: omg bair: hey that is why I live in the country for BobS: your chick pea: those r pics that i don't think i need to see Pam: what time is Christina's grad, Rie? Ron: you got 'em in your neck of the woods Bob? chick pea: 2 BobS: got any deer in your back yard Bob??????? chick pea: but i have to go to the bank and go to her house adn do her hair bair: oh yea Pam: tell her congratulations for me Judy: I am a city gal, we just have a pond with fish chick pea: i will Ron: trade ya Pam: that's so nice of you chick pea: any ways i better jet Ron: my deer for your fish BobS: 'cept when we hit the suckers with the car Pam: okay, I'll see you tomorrow. bair: NO WAY Ron: do fish eat Petunia Pam: Don't work too hard! BobS: bye Rie Ron: niters Rie chick pea: will do i'll stop by graeme's and brie's after Judy: no just a lot of fish food BobS: NOE BobS: NOPE Pam: okay, I'll be there Pam: I'm looking forward to this chick pea: night Judy: they are great eaters chick pea: lol Pam: gnite chick pea: night' Ron: My ex-wife tried that in Victoria. The raccoons ate the fish chick pea: night all
chick pea left chat session Judy: that would make me mad Pam: coulda been worse Ron - could have been bears Ron: yes, Leslie was not all that amused bair: well I have a gun permit BobS: not mad........infuriated !!!!!!!! Pam: how big are your fish Judy? BobS: BIG bair: 13 inches BobS: n o guns here in the city either Bob Judy: so far we haven't lost one fish this year, one jumped out but I put it back in and it survived bair: I have sharks Pam: footlongs? Ron: no, that's a sub or a hot dog BobS: about 3 inches or so Pam: it jumped out??? bair: they love fish Pam: in a tank Bair? Judy: some really small, from Ryan BobS: these are 24 cent golodfish, none of that cheap stuff for us !!!!! bair: they like men also Pam: you big spender, you bair: small lake Pam: so what do you do with them in the winter Judy? BobS: what the heck are you doing with sharks????? Judy: we did break down this year and buy to high priced ones-1.99 each Ron: Well, I suppose nature is nature, and deer must eat Judy: put them in the basement bair: when I don't like poeple BobS: see ? it will all work out ok Ron Judy: only lost one all winter, jumped out Pam: you send them swimming in the lake Bair? Ron: indeed Pam: too bad you can't get them to mow the lawn, Ron Harvie: Get a Wolverine, deer are scared of them bair: well yea when I am not going swiming Ron: good idea. I'll put up a sign Ron: Moe or go! Ron: Mow or Go Pam: I thought they couldn't read! Ron: you're right. They wouldn't get it BobS: durn it Ron.....they can't read !!!! Ron: Shouting at them does nothing bair: no sharks can't read Pam: maybe if you put the lawnmower out they'd get the hint Ron: They look at you like, "what's your problem?" BobS: time for this pupply to go nite nite gang Pam: oh good - deer with 'tude Ron: yup bair: it is not that late yet Judy: Bob is getting tired, so night all, talk at you next week Harvie: Me too Bob, night all Pam: wrong time zone, Bair Ron: be well all the Slopsemas Ron: sorry I was late bair: night to all BobS: well yes it is.......oh, you are not on DST are you....to you it is only 10pm ????? Pam: g'nite you two - see you next week
Judy left chat session
Harvie left chat session Pam: wow, that was quick for Harvie Ron: and then there were four BobS: keep fogetting that most of IN doesnt' jump ahead./ bair: yes but I get up at 4:30 to go to work Ron: oh really? Didn't know that BobS: OUCH Pam: oh ick, Bair BobS: so you shoulf be tired too !!!! Pam: that's a horrible time of the morning Ron: they're like northern Saskatchewan BobS: don't stay up late kiddies..........see ya noect week !!!!!!!!!!!!1 bair: done it for 30 years now Ron: nite Bob Pam: we won't - nite Bob
BobS left chat session Pam: how do you do it, Bob? Pam: and what do you do that you have to be up that early? bair: try to see every one next week Pam: don't forget bair: I work in the tool crib at towerautomotive Ron: so they start early, obviously Pam: so you start early, huh? bair: every one left fast Pam: yes, once it hits 11:00 ish everyone departs Ron: still light out here Pam: what time is sunset, Ron? Ron: 10 pm bair: we just got 1/2 inch orain Ron: our time Pam: nice Ron: the closer it gets to June 21, the more after 10pm it is Pam: and just think, the solstice is only two weeks away Ron: we're further north than you guys Pam: not quite the land of the midnight sun, but close Pam: how is Mum doing Ron? Ron: The Coast Guard station I used to manage up the Island about 150 miles - it never really got dark much before midnight and then it was sort of a Ron: heavy twilight Ron: started to get light again about 4 am Pam: I can't imagine what that would be like Ron: not good if you're a light sleeper Pam: I've been up till dawn a couple of times - that's strange enough Pam: I can imagine it would be a problem if you work shifts as Russell does Ron: yes for sure Pam: he doesn't sleep as well during the day bair: I have call waiting so i will be going Ron: I was one of the lucky ones - could sleep any time Pam: g'nite Bair - nice to see you Ron: nite Bob. Good to hear from you again bair: same here Ron: stay in touch eh?
bair left chat session Pam: I'm like that too, Ron Ron: just you and me, kid Pam: and the furniture : ) Ron: I can fall asleep distressingly fast. Not good if you're behind the wheel of a car Pam: no definitely not Pam: makes getting enough sleep a priority Ron: exactly. I've got to start getting to bed before midnight Pam: me I can sleep anytime if I'm tired enough Pam: there's a bedtime before midnight??? Ron: so they say Pam: I thought that was just a nasty rumour Ron: might be, I wouldn't know Pam: however, I do have friends who go to bed at 9:00 every night Pam: I can't imagine doing that Ron: oh yes, I know a few of those. They expect you to be wide awake about 7:30 am. they phone you then Ron: because they've been up since 4 am Pam: yes, I know a few of those too Pam: anyone who knows what's good for them doesn't call here before 9:00 am Ron: yes, I have put out word to that effect, to all who wish to continue in my friendship Pam: my mum-in-law is like that - early to bed and early to rise Ron: to each their own Pam: M & D used to have a household rule - no calls before 10:00 am on the weekends Pam: the phone would ring at 10:01 Ron: :) Ron: speaking of M & D did I miss them this evening? Or are they away? Pam: actually Dad was on but he wasn't feeling very well and departed early Pam: he had breathing probs over the weekend and saw the Dr. on Monday Ron: ah. that not good Ron: i see Pam: the Dr. gave him four new prescriptions Ron: shortness of breath. Got some of that going on around here Ron: puffers? Pam: a bronchodilator, a corticosteroid, an antibiotic and one other (Mom was unable to tell me which one) Ron: 2 puffers Pam: yeah - Uniphyl, which is a pill and . . . Pam: um Ron: probably to chase away any infection that might be hapening Ron: I take that Pam: starts with a P Ron: it is a pill Ron: Pulmicort Pam: Uniphyl? I'm on it too Pam: that's it Pam: have been on Uniphyl for years Pam: a wonder drug Ron: Yes, it certainly works Ron: but I'm still wheezy Pam: it's amazing how much difference it makes Ron: I get more immediate relief out of the Ventolin Pam: have you tried Advair? Ron: no Ron: should ask my Doc about it Pam: Dr. just put me on it - its a combo long lasting dilator and a steroid Ron: aha Ron: will make some enquiries Pam: still have my Ventolin but am down from four -six puffs a day to one or none Pam: that, and Tilade which is a prophylactic, and the uniphyl Ron: oddly enough, my triggers are not from nature at all. More like - certain social settings and certain people Pam: actually mine aren't either. I'm still smoking and that doesn't help, but I find it's sudden stress on the bronchia that does me in Ron: yup Pam: sneezing, or coughing Pam: some perfumes Ron: yes, that was a problem in the office in Ottawa Pam: perfume? Ron: yep. Certain people - there was one woman in personnel whom I used to have to present staff relations cases to Pam: there's a saying out there: Nice perfume - must you marinate in it? Ron: Eventually she changed perfumes - very kind of her, I thought Ron: ROTFL Pam: thought' you'd appreciate that Pam: I had more of a problem when I was working retail Ron: the elevators used to be awful at times Pam: right next to the cosmetics counter Ron: Oh God! Pam: I had one guy who I would swear bathed in Polo Pam: I'm not a fan of Polo at the best of times Ron: not sure I've even heard of it Pam: I literally couldn't help him Pam: it's Ralph Loren - comes in a green bottle Ron: aha Pam: sorry, Lauren Pam: smells like something you'd use to repel mosquitoes Ron: don't have to worry about such things out here in the boondocks Ron: imagine so Pam: I had a coworker who had a real thing for the heavy, musk time perfumes at the office Pam: she used to spray it on in her office after lunch Ron: uggh Pam: I had to stay away from her office for an hour afterward Pam: oh, she was high maintenance Pam: you know the type Ron: indeed I do Ron: always tried to stay away from them kind Pam: luckily, of 75 of us she was the only one Ron: in any office, you're always going to meet at least one who will be a problem Ron: be it male or female, there's always one Pam: oh, we had them all Pam: one of each type Pam: just for luck Ron: right Pam: the women in the office next to mine had no sense of colour Pam: cardinal red skirt with fuschia sweater Ron: that's unusual - mostly it's men who show up in gawd awful Pam: actually I should say no sense of fashion Ron: hurts my eyes just thinking about it Pam: most of our guys were pretty good - and our CEO had great taste in ties Pam: imagine looking at it all day : ) Ron: uggh Pam: oh Ron, I could tell such tales : ) Ron: i bet. Pam: poor Toni, she's a lovely person Ron: Ottawa was usually kind of civil service drab Pam: would give you the sweater off her back if you asked her to Ron: yeah, that's the trouble Pam: none of us wanted the fushcia Ron: you couldn't say a thing Pam: no, I didn't want to hurt her Pam: I did make a point of commenting to her when she did hit the mark though Ron: yes, it's called positive reinforcement Pam: exactly Pam: with a certain amount of wishful thinking thrown in ; ) Ron: what used to get me was the women who'd come into the office dressed to the nines, until you looked down at their feet Ron: runners Pam: oh that's just practicality Ron: comfort. the heels were under the desk at work Pam: guys just don't understand how lucky they are when it comes to fashion Ron: Guys used to keep all their jackets in the office too Ron: so as not to have to ride the bus in them - humid Ottawa weather Pam: even now it's more relaxed than it used to be Pam: can you imagine a woman going out without a slip under her skirt 20 years ago? Ron: I suspect so. Although, somewhere around 1994, our Director issued a memo on the state of staff dress Ron: He said suit and tie, proper attire for the women - no dressing down Ron: no. that never happened Pam: how long did that last? Pam: I'm not even sure you can buy slips anymore Ron: well.... I guess if you're the one wearing the slip, after a while it just ain't too practical Pam: they're hot!!! Ron: I remember going to a Christmas party just before I left. Had a ride with a couple I knew very well. She had to stop at the Rideau Centre Mall on the way to the party to buy a slip Pam: sheesh - bra, undies, camisole, slip, skirt, blouse, pantyhose, heels Ron: wouldn't know, Pam. I've never worn one. But can imagine Pam: Well in the winter it's not so bad Pam: however I avoid the whole issue by wearing pants : ) Ron: whereas we get away with a shirt and trousers, jockies and socks Pam: men are too lucky Ron: when you put it all that way, it sure doesn't seem very fair Pam: fashion has changed so much in recent years Pam: it's hard to keep up Ron: I've heard cost analyses done on the average couple going out on a date - and who spends what just to prepare for said date Pam: LOL Ron: always the woman who can spend hundreds, while the man gets away with the suit he's been wearing all day Pam: I must admit I've been lucky the last few years. Pam: Since I wasn't working in the public eye any more, I was able to wear jeans to work Ron: that helps Ron: Here in the Comox valley, you're lucky to see anyone with a tie on. We're far away from the big city Ron: most of the offices are casual Pam: now that I'm looking to join a new office, I had to invest in a couple of business pieces Ron: women and men Pam: until I know what the dress code is, I'll have to go out with a jacket, dress pants and dressy shoes. Ron: Right at the moment, I have precisely one blazer and a pair of grey flannels that get work perhaps once a year Pam: yeah - Dad is the same Pam: got rid of all his work wear and now has one suit Ron: If I ever did go back to work in a city, I'd have to upgrade bigtime Pam: well that would depend on the dress code in the office. For most offices, khakis and a nice shirt are generally okay Pam: for men at least Ron: yep. but there's casual, and then there's casual Ron: the casual has to be reasonable quality and well cut Ron: and the colours have to be somewhat in tune Pam: couple nice pairs of Haggars or Dockers and some sport shirts and you're all set Ron: mix and match yep Pam: as long as you're not colour blind, you're okay Pam: I must admit, Dad had some eye-searing combinations Ron: My ex used to think I was. My colour sense is not great, particularly when I wander off the commonly accepted garb Pam: you always look fine to me Ron Ron: I usually find the closest woman and ask an opinion Pam: good call : ) Ron: and usually, I get one Ron: one way or the other Pam: I remember Dad having a salmon coloured shirt that he wore with a pastel rainbow coloured tie and a brown tweed jacket and brown slacks Ron: One friend I know here picks me up when she, her husband, and I play golf in the summer. Usually shorts, but the socks MUST match Pam: most women will try to be helpful Ron: I'm at the point now where when I'm going for accessories such as socks, I take with me whatever I'm trying to match up Pam: but of course! Socks are an integral part of an outfit Ron: exactly Pam: sayeth a woman : ) Ron: :) Pam: I had a hard time convincing Russell of that Ron: Well I can't blame Lin really. i have presented myself with some rather off speed combinations Pam: he was a classic wear black socks with everything guy Pam: such as? Ron: oh.... two shades of green (shorts and socks) that spend 9 holes arguing witheachother Pam: ROTFL Pam: who won? Ron: it's either be totally different - or matched Ron: The shorts. Pam: green is hard to match too Ron: Socks got thrown out because they matched nothing Pam: there are so many shades it's hard to match them exactly Pam: what colour are your golf shoes? Ron: besides - Lin also has a happy knack of seeing socks that need darning -( or whatever we do these days) Ron: black Pam: hmm - that's a toughie Ron: but sometimes I get away with totally different if the sports shirt matches the socks, the shorts can be different Ron: We do have fun with that Pam: especially in your Sunday socks : ) Ron: Of course, Lin is a fashion plate Ron: she says, "Ron, you need a woman. We've got to find you a woman." To which I reply Pam: don't tell me matching shorts and golf shirt, with white shoes and little socks with pom poms on them in a complimentary colour? Ron: "never mind" Ron: and sexy pink golf balls Pam: did you mention that you've had a couple of women already? Ron: Oh she knows that. We've known each other for years.....well back to Ottawa Pam: is it one ex or two? Ron: Lin and Arnie and I used to work in the same office Ron: for me? One Ron: I am now gunshy Pam: i can't blame you. With the divorce rate as high as it is, it's hard not to be Pam: look at me, I waited 15 years ! Ron: well, Leslie and I actually do better living 140 miles apart Pam: sometimes you can love someone and not be able to live with them Ron: That was pretty much it Pam: look at Anthony Quinn Ron: yes, noted Pam: how long were you married? Ron: 20 years Pam: wow Ron: somewhere around year 15, things got a little cold Ron: on both sides Pam: did you keep it together for Jeff? Ron: Yes, I think so really. The year we split up, (1990) he was accepted at the University of Victoria, and he and his mother came west. Ron: I stayed in Ottawa for another 5 years Pam: so what made you go west? Ron: Dad passed away in 1995 (March). I came out for the funeral, then spent the next few months wondering why I was rattling around in an Ottawa apartment Ron: Mom was, of course, out here Ron: So the department I worked for restructured in 1995, and I didn't particularly like the proposed changes Ron: asked for a buyout Ron: and got it Pam: so you were from BC originally? How did you end up in Ottawa? Ron: when you're climbing the ladder with the public service of Canada, you will end up in Ottawa. Started my career here in 1968 and got promoted Ron: lots Pam: my god, I was three in 1968 Ron: actually, I'm a forces brat, so have been all over Canada. My own career just carried on that way Ron: good Heavens - time flies eh? Pam: scary, ain't it? Ron: yes Pam: I can't imagine living anywhere but T.O. Ron: take it you've been in Toronto for most of the time since? Pam: even with all our travelling when I was young, I never found anywhere else I wanted to live Pam: born and raised here Pam: mother and dad saw to it that I got to 36 of 50 states and 9 of the ten provinces Ron: sorry Pam, had a phone call in the middle there Pam: s'alright Ron: yes, they are (or were) travellers Pam: they are - they've got a better collection of states than I do Ron: they sure do Pam: was just trying to figure out which 14 I'm missing Ron: right ...... I can't even name all 50 Ron: give it some thought.... I'll be right back Pam: Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Oregon, New Mexico, Texas, Hawaii, Virginia, West Virginia, D.C., Oklahoma, Mississippi, Kentucky, Tennessee Pam: phew, had to get out the atlas for that one Ron: And you've been to all the others? Pam: yup Ron: boy Pam: not sure I appreciated it back then Ron: no, I don't suppose. Pam: and the only province I'm missing is Newfoundland Pam: and the territories, of course Ron: When we spent our 4 years in Northeastern Franch, I was like, "if somebody shows me another old church, I'm going to throw up" Pam: well I appreciate it now Ron: have since come to appreciate the history I saw, and wish I could do it again Pam: I'd love to travel in Europe, but only if I could do it right Pam: none of this "if this is Tuesday this must be Rome" kind of thing Ron: about all I can say is that I have been to all 10 provinces, and 1 of the territories Ron: No, you have to take the time to read about the history you're looking at Pam: I'd love to do it all again Pam: I particularly want to go to the UK Ron: yes.... you'd like that Pam: I have a lot of history and ancestry to explore Ron: I actually spent the four years of my life there. Pam: colour me green Ron: A little blond schoolboy with an English accent Pam: how old were you? Ron: don't remember much of that Ron: came home in 1948, (born in 44) Pam: the first four years then Ron: yup Pam: your father was in the Forces? Ron: then we spent between 1958 and 1962 in Northeastern France at a Canadian NATO base Ron: yes, he was an airman Pam: hence the nauseating churches : ) Ron: right. Pam: and in 62? Ron: was too young to appreciate that this was the stuff I was reading about in my history classes Pam: that's too bad Ron: such a treasure of places that go back to several hundred years BC Pam: I think I'd be into the things like palaces Pam: Versailles, Chenanceau Ron: lots of those. And we here on this continent don't really know what wealth is Pam: since I doubt I'll ever have the opportunity, i've never really given it any hard thought Pam: or history. there are people in Europe who have watches older than this country Ron: yes, that's true. Ron: Went to Pompeii on one of our trips - and to Mt.Vesuvius. The lava had frozen things just as they were in 76AD Ron: got the impression that we really hadn't changed much in 2000 years Pam: that's a place I'd love to see Pam: it's beyond imaginable Ron: you get a sense that through it all, we really haven't added much to what they had back then. And particularly in terms of relationships.... we are much the same Ron: our achievements are dazzling perhaps, but our relationships haven't changed much Pam: whatever else happens, life goes on Ron: that's it Pam: we're born, we grow up, we find a partner, we procreate (sometimes), we grow old, we die - day to day life cycle Ron: Sculduggery then, sculduggery now Pam: only the technology has changed Ron: yes Ron: and the seven deadly sins are from the same list they had then Pam: still, where else can you get a "photographic" look at what life was like 2000 years ago Ron: undeniable. We can do that now. They couldn't then. Pam: and haven't we added some sins to that list yet? Ron: We can research, and film, and direct, and script, and produce a pretty close replica of what it was like for them Ron: I don't think so Pamela, we've just had 2000 years' practice on the originals Pam: it is perhaps one of the few moments truly frozen in time Pam: well we must be getting good at them by now : ) Ron: oh yes Pam: and on that note my friend, I think it's time I went to bed Ron: I have to check out 4 computers for my hospital ECU computer club tomorrow... so I shal depart Ron: been good talking Ron: see ya next week Pam: yes - I don't get a chance to chat with just you very often Pam: until then - have a good one Ron: was fun Ron: niters Pam: hugs Pam: g'nite Ron: :) Pam: kerpoof!
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