Monday, December 10/18
I took a vow about a year ago after some serious time spent pondering what was the sense in reminding myself over and over of what once was.
Seriously, the question was why was I continuously doing something that did nothing but make me sad and brought me no pleasure, unless of course I was a masochist who needed the constant reminder of what I was missing in my life.
So by now you are probably trying to figure out what was I doing that was so horrible that I had taken a vow to stop.........
No, I was not touching myself so please get that thought of your minds!!! This isn't that kind of blog, if that's something you are interested in than please Google it and find another blog please.
Nope, it was nothing more than looking at a Facebook profile every few days.
No harm in that right? Wrong when than profile is that of your former girlfriend......
Pathetic? Absolutely (there is that damn honesty thing again)
Stubborn? For sure
Rewarding? Not in the least, well partially not in the least as I never came across any updates that she had moved onto someone else.
Reckless? I don't think so as I never once did more than peek.
Smart? Hell's No!!!! There is smart and there is dumb. Usually I'm a pretty smart guy but sometimes the heart makes us, me in particular, very very dumb.
So I had come to all of these same conclusions on my own back in early 2017 and made a solemn vow to stop torturing myself and refrain from looking at her profile. She had moved on and this was the last thing I needed to do in order to begin doing so myself.
I'll admit the temptation has always been there and never more so than the first few months to go and take a sneak peek, but I didn't give in to the temptation and grew more and more proud of myself for having the willpower to honour the vow.
So you might ask just what happened that led me to break my vow now after being so good for the past 18+ months?
Honestly not a clue as I was online yesterday doing some research to help my son study for his Financial Accounting Final exam when Facebook notified me that I had new friend request, which is odd in and of itself given I don't have a public profile for a variety of reasons, primarily related to privacy for my children, and I opened my FB account to see this notification and literally before I even knew I was doing it found myself typing Corinne's name in the search box.
Of course FB being the little enabler that it is completed my search with her full name and opened up her profile right before my very eyes. Damn Mark Zuckerberg and his creation.
So as I sat there pondering the betrayal of my vow it dawned on me that I really liked her profile picture, it was a new selfie taken in her SUV and in it she was flashing that sweet smile I had grown accustomed to seeing flashed my way.
But something about it just screamed out to me.
That rattled me a bit as beside that smile, which is plenty enough reason for me, I wasn't sure what was keeping my focus so intent on the picture.
Think I sat there for a few minutes before I started to smile and knew what it was..........
I'm more than positive that the earrings she is wearing in the picture were my Christmas gift to her from 2014. I'm pretty sure that was the only time in my life I've purchased earrings for a woman before and it just came to me as I was walking past the Pandora store in the Bayshore Shopping Centre one day after work.
It makes me feel good to know she still has them and hopefully each time she puts them on she thinks of me and has good memories of me and our time together, as I do of her when I play a round of golf with the clubs she bought me for my birthday.
Someone once said to me that sometimes we meet the right person at the wrong time and I used to wonder if that was our story but I tend to think that......
if the heart matters enough, timing doesn't
My name is Marcus and I've renewed that vow once again, not because of any pain but rather to keep that memory untainted in my heart.
Today's musical recommendation is a little old school.......The Way You Look Tonight by old blue eyes himself, Mister Frank Sinatra
Monday, December 10, 2018
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
Heavy is the.......
Wednesday, December 05/18
So in one of the episodes of The Crown Elizabeth is talking to her grandmother and she is told something that made me think about how that is true about love.....
"Heavy is the head that holds the crown"
I was laying in bed this morning when that phrase just popped into my thoughts but more along the lines of love and my interpretation goes something like this.....
"Heavy is the heart that has been broken"
We've all had our heart broken at one time or another and had that aching hollow feeling inside our chest where our heart used to reside.
More often than not it's been broken by someone else's action but there are those rare times we take an action that results in this pain being self inflicted, it's rare but does happen, most often when you know the decision to end things is for the best in the long run but know it's going to hurt like hell in the short run, exceedingly hurt like a mother fucker!!
I've been on both sides of that equation and neither side feels good. I hated having my heart ripped out by someone, hated ripping it out myself when I had to end something, and hated the pain I caused someone who I could no longer be with but who once meant something to me.
Sometimes the pain is transitory and other times it's like the damn thing puts down roots and won't let go no matter what you do.
I had transitory when my marriage ended and I was looking at starting fresh in life. Roots of a damn oak tree was what I went through when things went south with Corrine, being honest requires me to admit that I doubt all those roots have been dug up and removed just quite yet, though I've made enough progress to put myself back out there for another shot at the so called golden ring.
Now I'm the first to admit that the mere thought of putting myself back out there is enough to give me heart palpitations and not the good kind when you make eye contact with someone across a room and just feel that electric shock course through your body, and we've all had that so don't even think about playing dumb on this one folks as I'll call bullshit right away.
But I am doing just that, putting myself back in the game so to speak, as I've come to realize that I'd rather risk the possibility of getting hurt than sit on the sidelines and moan and bitch about how much I hate being alone, and I've come to realize more and more the last few months that I really do hate being alone, probably more than I hate the Toronto Maple Leafs and I loathe that organization to my very core so that's saying quite a bit.
So there may come a time, hopefully sooner rather than later as I'm not getting any younger, when I meet a nice woman who so catches my eye that I step out of my comfort zone and actually approach her to say something lame like "Hi, how are you doing today?" in the hope she might feel something in return and respond in a positive manner.
People always find it shocking to hear me describe myself as an introvert as they say I don't come across as introverted or shy in the least but it really is how I see myself. It's easier for me to talk in front of a room of 500 people than it is to just talk to one woman I find attractive.
I have no game when it comes to that oh so important first greeting and there are no do overs once you've put your foot in your mouth and have no hope of recovering.
Now having said that I am happy to be open once more to finding love and all it's wonderful intricacies, both small and large.
My name is Marcus and my heart is healed enough to allow someone to get close once again.
So in one of the episodes of The Crown Elizabeth is talking to her grandmother and she is told something that made me think about how that is true about love.....
"Heavy is the head that holds the crown"
I was laying in bed this morning when that phrase just popped into my thoughts but more along the lines of love and my interpretation goes something like this.....
"Heavy is the heart that has been broken"
We've all had our heart broken at one time or another and had that aching hollow feeling inside our chest where our heart used to reside.
More often than not it's been broken by someone else's action but there are those rare times we take an action that results in this pain being self inflicted, it's rare but does happen, most often when you know the decision to end things is for the best in the long run but know it's going to hurt like hell in the short run, exceedingly hurt like a mother fucker!!
I've been on both sides of that equation and neither side feels good. I hated having my heart ripped out by someone, hated ripping it out myself when I had to end something, and hated the pain I caused someone who I could no longer be with but who once meant something to me.
Sometimes the pain is transitory and other times it's like the damn thing puts down roots and won't let go no matter what you do.
I had transitory when my marriage ended and I was looking at starting fresh in life. Roots of a damn oak tree was what I went through when things went south with Corrine, being honest requires me to admit that I doubt all those roots have been dug up and removed just quite yet, though I've made enough progress to put myself back out there for another shot at the so called golden ring.
Now I'm the first to admit that the mere thought of putting myself back out there is enough to give me heart palpitations and not the good kind when you make eye contact with someone across a room and just feel that electric shock course through your body, and we've all had that so don't even think about playing dumb on this one folks as I'll call bullshit right away.
But I am doing just that, putting myself back in the game so to speak, as I've come to realize that I'd rather risk the possibility of getting hurt than sit on the sidelines and moan and bitch about how much I hate being alone, and I've come to realize more and more the last few months that I really do hate being alone, probably more than I hate the Toronto Maple Leafs and I loathe that organization to my very core so that's saying quite a bit.
So there may come a time, hopefully sooner rather than later as I'm not getting any younger, when I meet a nice woman who so catches my eye that I step out of my comfort zone and actually approach her to say something lame like "Hi, how are you doing today?" in the hope she might feel something in return and respond in a positive manner.
People always find it shocking to hear me describe myself as an introvert as they say I don't come across as introverted or shy in the least but it really is how I see myself. It's easier for me to talk in front of a room of 500 people than it is to just talk to one woman I find attractive.
I have no game when it comes to that oh so important first greeting and there are no do overs once you've put your foot in your mouth and have no hope of recovering.
Now having said that I am happy to be open once more to finding love and all it's wonderful intricacies, both small and large.
My name is Marcus and my heart is healed enough to allow someone to get close once again.
Dating Profiles And Some Unsolicited Advice
Wednesday, December 05/18
So as you can see from the date below this one has been on the back burner for a little while and I've actually almost deleted it a few times but decided to resurrect it after seeing a few profiles over the weekend as I went back online.
Sunday, June 03/18
So as part of my ongoing self reflection I've taken down my dating profile and have decided to just let nature take it's course when it comes to me and the possibility of meeting the imperfectly perfect one for me.
Now I've been on and off a dating site since 2007 and have had both good and bad experiences, mostly bad in terms of quantity, the good came from the quality of some pretty amazing women I've had the good fortune to talk with and in two cases actually get to date.
I think I've always tried to be pretty upfront and honest when it came to my profiles and hope that what anyone saw was the real me in terms of my looks, yes there were pictures, and my intentions, based on what I wrote about myself and what I was seeking.
First and foremost I've always stated that I'm a romantic at heart. I believe in love and the ever lasting happiness it can bring when two people really give it a try. I believe in butterflies, holding open doors, not following some dumb 3 day rule before calling or texting after the first date, that a kiss is as far as one should ever go on a first date, and that love should never be confused with getting another notch on a bedpost, for either party.
My dating profile was brutally honest about who I was and I never shied away from calling it like I saw it when I came to my appearance with my words or my pictures. I'm not God's gift to women and I'm actually fine with that. I know that most women don't give me a second glance when they pass me or I enter a room. But guess what? I'm not here for most women. I'm here for that one who will see beyond the few extra pounds I was carrying or the grey hair that I've had for more years than I care to remember. I'm here for the one who sees my imperfections, and trust me when I say we've all got them, and still thinks I might be worth the effort getting to know.
Being on a dating website has given me ample opportunities to observe far more profiles than I ever thought possible or in reality wanted to see in my life. But online dating really is the new version of passing notes in the hallway or classroom, something those of us who are older can probably relate to more than anyone younger than 25 can in this day and age of electronic mediums and social websites.
So here is my take on some of the things I've come across on profiles....
Pictures! Pictures are good and let's face it both genders are visual despite the theory that it's only men who desire to see a picture.
But here is the thing with pictures, be honest with those you are posting.
So what do I mean when I say be honest with those pictures?
Make sure they are of you or the viewer can at least figure out who you are!
I can't begin to say how many profiles I've come across that had nothing but pictures in a group setting. Do you know how hard it can be to try and determine who the profile belongs to when everyone looks pretty much alike in the picture? If you are going to post a picture in a group setting or with a couple of your girlfriends please cut us some slack and give us a hint which one is you, it's pretty nerve wracking contemplating sending a message when you'd like to comment on the picture but are petrified to say anything for fear lest you mention the wrong woman in the the picture.
Oh, and maybe post some pictures taken in the last year or so. I've come across so many pictures that are 5 years or older, heck there are quite a few that I've come across with pictures from university days and that is just wrong in so many ways.
On another note, I get it that paint night is the new thing and applaud all the efforts being made to expand your horizons and take on new challenges but is it really necessary to post 5+ pictures of various paintings you've done over the last year? I'm talking along the lines of 5 pictures of paintings out of a total of maybe 6-7 on the profile.
While we are at it, let's cut back on the dog and cat pictures as well okay. The majority of us like pets but does anyone really need to see 4 pictures of Mr. Whiskers and 3 of Princess Mika? No, I didn't think so either. Unless you want the guy thinking crazy cat lady I'd say leave those off the site completely.
Additionally, I can't begin to count the number of profiles that have far too many scenery pictures posted. Here is my tip on posting those - don't or leave it at one at the most and make it somewhere interesting like Europe or Australia and not the dock at a cottage or a tree. Seen plenty of those and they leave me wondering what the person was thinking by posting them.
Don't even get me started on pictures taken using a Snap chat filter........
There is no straight man alive who will look at a profile picture taken using a Snap chat filter of you with bunny ears or stars exploding around your face and think to himself "I've so got to meet this woman, she's the one for me" Should any man actually send you a message complimenting you on using a Snap chat filter in a profile picture all I can say is run. Run Fast and run far as that is the kind of guy who says things like "it puts the lotion on or it gets the hose"....yes, a Silence of the Lambs quote.
So now that we've got the whole picture issue addressed once and for all, let's move onto the actual wording of your profile.
This one is easier. Just tell us a little about yourself and what you are hoping to find in a potential boyfriend. Less isn't more and more isn't less if you know what I mean.
You just want to tease us with a few interesting things about yourself. Do you like sports and what kind, are you into music and big on attending festivals, do you live to travel and what are some future spots you'd like to see.
Just give us some clues as to what makes you you so we can make an informed decision if we dare to reach out and make first contact.
Regardless of how many trolls are on the various websites believe me when I say that the majority of men are beyond scared when it comes to making the first move, despite the many messages you might get that are down right disgusting in nature, trust me I've heard all about them from friends and readers of the blog, there are actually some decent guys looking to make a connection, one that might actually, possibly, maybe, potentially end up leading to a real date.
Now before anyone gets their knickers in a bunch relax, I know there are just as many issues with men's profiles but I'm not viewing those as I don't bat for the home team, no this guy bats for the visiting team, he appreciates, nay, he loves the female form and always will.
Guys are idiots so nothing I write here will be of any assistance to them but there is the off chance a woman might see something in this blog and go back and review her own profile and see something that might need updating.
My name is Marcus and being an introvert makes dating so damn hard but preserver I shall.....
Today's musical suggestion is "Swimming in Stars" by the Wayfarers
So as you can see from the date below this one has been on the back burner for a little while and I've actually almost deleted it a few times but decided to resurrect it after seeing a few profiles over the weekend as I went back online.
Sunday, June 03/18
So as part of my ongoing self reflection I've taken down my dating profile and have decided to just let nature take it's course when it comes to me and the possibility of meeting the imperfectly perfect one for me.
Now I've been on and off a dating site since 2007 and have had both good and bad experiences, mostly bad in terms of quantity, the good came from the quality of some pretty amazing women I've had the good fortune to talk with and in two cases actually get to date.
I think I've always tried to be pretty upfront and honest when it came to my profiles and hope that what anyone saw was the real me in terms of my looks, yes there were pictures, and my intentions, based on what I wrote about myself and what I was seeking.
First and foremost I've always stated that I'm a romantic at heart. I believe in love and the ever lasting happiness it can bring when two people really give it a try. I believe in butterflies, holding open doors, not following some dumb 3 day rule before calling or texting after the first date, that a kiss is as far as one should ever go on a first date, and that love should never be confused with getting another notch on a bedpost, for either party.
My dating profile was brutally honest about who I was and I never shied away from calling it like I saw it when I came to my appearance with my words or my pictures. I'm not God's gift to women and I'm actually fine with that. I know that most women don't give me a second glance when they pass me or I enter a room. But guess what? I'm not here for most women. I'm here for that one who will see beyond the few extra pounds I was carrying or the grey hair that I've had for more years than I care to remember. I'm here for the one who sees my imperfections, and trust me when I say we've all got them, and still thinks I might be worth the effort getting to know.
Being on a dating website has given me ample opportunities to observe far more profiles than I ever thought possible or in reality wanted to see in my life. But online dating really is the new version of passing notes in the hallway or classroom, something those of us who are older can probably relate to more than anyone younger than 25 can in this day and age of electronic mediums and social websites.
So here is my take on some of the things I've come across on profiles....
Pictures! Pictures are good and let's face it both genders are visual despite the theory that it's only men who desire to see a picture.
But here is the thing with pictures, be honest with those you are posting.
So what do I mean when I say be honest with those pictures?
Make sure they are of you or the viewer can at least figure out who you are!
I can't begin to say how many profiles I've come across that had nothing but pictures in a group setting. Do you know how hard it can be to try and determine who the profile belongs to when everyone looks pretty much alike in the picture? If you are going to post a picture in a group setting or with a couple of your girlfriends please cut us some slack and give us a hint which one is you, it's pretty nerve wracking contemplating sending a message when you'd like to comment on the picture but are petrified to say anything for fear lest you mention the wrong woman in the the picture.
Oh, and maybe post some pictures taken in the last year or so. I've come across so many pictures that are 5 years or older, heck there are quite a few that I've come across with pictures from university days and that is just wrong in so many ways.
On another note, I get it that paint night is the new thing and applaud all the efforts being made to expand your horizons and take on new challenges but is it really necessary to post 5+ pictures of various paintings you've done over the last year? I'm talking along the lines of 5 pictures of paintings out of a total of maybe 6-7 on the profile.
While we are at it, let's cut back on the dog and cat pictures as well okay. The majority of us like pets but does anyone really need to see 4 pictures of Mr. Whiskers and 3 of Princess Mika? No, I didn't think so either. Unless you want the guy thinking crazy cat lady I'd say leave those off the site completely.
Additionally, I can't begin to count the number of profiles that have far too many scenery pictures posted. Here is my tip on posting those - don't or leave it at one at the most and make it somewhere interesting like Europe or Australia and not the dock at a cottage or a tree. Seen plenty of those and they leave me wondering what the person was thinking by posting them.
Don't even get me started on pictures taken using a Snap chat filter........
There is no straight man alive who will look at a profile picture taken using a Snap chat filter of you with bunny ears or stars exploding around your face and think to himself "I've so got to meet this woman, she's the one for me" Should any man actually send you a message complimenting you on using a Snap chat filter in a profile picture all I can say is run. Run Fast and run far as that is the kind of guy who says things like "it puts the lotion on or it gets the hose"....yes, a Silence of the Lambs quote.
So now that we've got the whole picture issue addressed once and for all, let's move onto the actual wording of your profile.
This one is easier. Just tell us a little about yourself and what you are hoping to find in a potential boyfriend. Less isn't more and more isn't less if you know what I mean.
You just want to tease us with a few interesting things about yourself. Do you like sports and what kind, are you into music and big on attending festivals, do you live to travel and what are some future spots you'd like to see.
Just give us some clues as to what makes you you so we can make an informed decision if we dare to reach out and make first contact.
Regardless of how many trolls are on the various websites believe me when I say that the majority of men are beyond scared when it comes to making the first move, despite the many messages you might get that are down right disgusting in nature, trust me I've heard all about them from friends and readers of the blog, there are actually some decent guys looking to make a connection, one that might actually, possibly, maybe, potentially end up leading to a real date.
Now before anyone gets their knickers in a bunch relax, I know there are just as many issues with men's profiles but I'm not viewing those as I don't bat for the home team, no this guy bats for the visiting team, he appreciates, nay, he loves the female form and always will.
Guys are idiots so nothing I write here will be of any assistance to them but there is the off chance a woman might see something in this blog and go back and review her own profile and see something that might need updating.
My name is Marcus and being an introvert makes dating so damn hard but preserver I shall.....
Today's musical suggestion is "Swimming in Stars" by the Wayfarers
Sunday, November 11, 2018
One Hundred Years Ago...........Lest We Forget
Sunday, November 11, 2018
One hundred years ago today the guns went silent on the western front and the world gave a silent prayer that the horrible conflict known as the Great War had come to an end.
An end for some and a lifetime to deal with it for others.
War is never glorious as it rends bodies and minds, destroys men and women, tears asunder families.
We ask much of those who would protect us and own them even more for the ultimate sacrifice that some will make honouring our request.
It is our sacred duty to remember them and what they gave up for all of us.
My great grandfather stands watch silently in Flanders Field as he has done since 1917.
An uncle rests in the jungles of Borneo where he fell in 1944.
Another uncle lays in his homeland of Italy where he gave his life in 1945.
I think we can all trace a family member and a loss to one of the two world wars that have been waged across the globe, we are all touched by conflict, whether directly ourselves or through the actions of someone close to us, be they family or friend.
I've been touched through both family and friends and will never forget them, I've tried my best to pass on this feeling to my children and will do so with my grandson Jack when I take him to visit the War Memorial in Ottawa.
For those past, present, and future who shall give of themselves, I promise to never forget....
One hundred years ago today the guns went silent on the western front and the world gave a silent prayer that the horrible conflict known as the Great War had come to an end.
An end for some and a lifetime to deal with it for others.
War is never glorious as it rends bodies and minds, destroys men and women, tears asunder families.
We ask much of those who would protect us and own them even more for the ultimate sacrifice that some will make honouring our request.
It is our sacred duty to remember them and what they gave up for all of us.
My great grandfather stands watch silently in Flanders Field as he has done since 1917.
An uncle rests in the jungles of Borneo where he fell in 1944.
Another uncle lays in his homeland of Italy where he gave his life in 1945.
I think we can all trace a family member and a loss to one of the two world wars that have been waged across the globe, we are all touched by conflict, whether directly ourselves or through the actions of someone close to us, be they family or friend.
I've been touched through both family and friends and will never forget them, I've tried my best to pass on this feeling to my children and will do so with my grandson Jack when I take him to visit the War Memorial in Ottawa.
For those past, present, and future who shall give of themselves, I promise to never forget....
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae
My name is Marcus and today I'll be raising a glass in toast to those no longer with us and those away from families making the world a better place
Saturday, October 27, 2018
Ladies & Gentlemen....We Have S N O W !!!!
Saturday, October 27/18
So there I was sitting on the couch with Moki curled up next to me, a pint glass filled with a cold Big Wave Pale Ale, The Nutcracker playing on the sound bar, reading my tablet when what did my peripheral vision see out the front window?
The twinkle of falling snow as it crossed the front porch light made me pause and look out the window to see my front yard slowly turning white.
Now I'm pretty sure it will all melt tomorrow before noon but it was still cool to see as it came earlier than I expected this year.
The funny thing was that while I was walking Moki this morning in the park I had to really bundle up in a heavier jacket than usual, gloves, and a toque as it was -2c. As we were walking I told her that it felt cold enough for snow and we better get all the walks in we can before she begins her annual winter refusal to go for a walk in the snow, sure enough now we have snow and she won't be happy in the morning when she steps out the door and feels it on her paws. spoiled little princess that I've made her.
So stay warm, be safe, and remember to be nice to one another.
Here is my front yard at 8:35 am and the snow is still falling :)
My name is Marcus and while I don't embrace winter like a lot of my fellow Canadians, I don't exactly hate it either as it increases my appreciation for the other three seasons.
Today's musical recommendation is Vertigo by Khalid. I'm not sure why this song touched me the way it did but I literally started to feel tear's on my cheeks when I heard this song for the first time this afternoon. He has such an amazing voice and coupled with the lyrics this one just seemed to reach inside my chest and gently squeeze my heart, reminding me that is is better to feel something, even pain, rather than being numb to life.
So there I was sitting on the couch with Moki curled up next to me, a pint glass filled with a cold Big Wave Pale Ale, The Nutcracker playing on the sound bar, reading my tablet when what did my peripheral vision see out the front window?
The twinkle of falling snow as it crossed the front porch light made me pause and look out the window to see my front yard slowly turning white.
Now I'm pretty sure it will all melt tomorrow before noon but it was still cool to see as it came earlier than I expected this year.
The funny thing was that while I was walking Moki this morning in the park I had to really bundle up in a heavier jacket than usual, gloves, and a toque as it was -2c. As we were walking I told her that it felt cold enough for snow and we better get all the walks in we can before she begins her annual winter refusal to go for a walk in the snow, sure enough now we have snow and she won't be happy in the morning when she steps out the door and feels it on her paws. spoiled little princess that I've made her.
So stay warm, be safe, and remember to be nice to one another.
Here is my front yard at 8:35 am and the snow is still falling :)
My name is Marcus and while I don't embrace winter like a lot of my fellow Canadians, I don't exactly hate it either as it increases my appreciation for the other three seasons.
Today's musical recommendation is Vertigo by Khalid. I'm not sure why this song touched me the way it did but I literally started to feel tear's on my cheeks when I heard this song for the first time this afternoon. He has such an amazing voice and coupled with the lyrics this one just seemed to reach inside my chest and gently squeeze my heart, reminding me that is is better to feel something, even pain, rather than being numb to life.
Let's Talk About..............Golf
Friday, October 19/18
Given the time of year it seems kind of odd to talk about golf but I've always marched to a different drummer than most people :)
Additionally, seeing how few posts I've done lately the reader might have expected my newest entry to talk about love, relationships, the recent legalization of marijuana, or the polarization between the left and the right here in Canada. Rest assured, these are still topics near to my heart and sure to result in a post or two down the road.
But for now, let's talk about my 4th favourite thing in life - Golf :-)
Wait, you ask what are numbers 1-3?
Really? you can't figure that one out by yourself......gotta say that makes me wonder.....
Number 1 - Jack, my incredibly awesome grandson who is the pure light in my heart.
Number 2 - my daughter and son, both of whom amaze me every single day with the adults they've developed into over the years. Might now have worked out with they're mother, but man did we make two pretty amazing kids, if I do say so myself, and I do say so!
Number 3 - Moki the Wonder Puppy. I know at 7 years old she isn't really a puppy but she still acts like one and probably will her entire life.
Coming in number 4 is golf, though I do like to tell the kids that sometimes it's Jack and than Golf in my order of preferences lol
So back to golf.........
I got a late start to my game this year due to the health scare, surgery, and complications, didn't really play my first round until early July but did try and make up for it by playing multiple rounds every weekend at my club, Stittsville Golf.
Due to the health issue and corresponding late start I didn't renew my membership and thus ended up playing the majority of my rounds in the afternoon when rates were better.
I think I managed to play around 25 rounds, down substantially from last years +50 rounds all around the Ottawa region. All of my rounds this year were at Stittsville, due to the aforementioned pricing as well as the course being fairly close to home and I know it like the back of my hand.
Now even though I didn't get as many round in this season as last I still consider it one of my best seasons ever!!
What made it so good? A lot of things I guess come into play when I make that statement. First among them was the simple fact that I got to play at all when there was a chance that wouldn't be the case at the start of the year. I think that fact more than anything convinced me to play a couple of rounds back in January when we were down in Mexico for my daughters wedding. As much as I love to play, I'm quite adverse to playing a round with anything other than my own clubs for the simple reason that I know my distances with them, other clubs leave me feeling confused as the distances hit by various clubs can vary by up to 15 yards. Now that might not seem like much but when you are 145 yards out and know you can hit your 7 iron and put the ball on the green it means everything, as if you now find yourself 15 yards short of the green or 15 yards past the green you can find yourself in a bunker or water, should the hole be an island green.
I got lucky in Mexico and with my first round was given a set of Ping G20's, only one version older than my own Pings G30's, and clubs I was familiar with, though there was no Hybrid to hit off the fairways and thus I was forced to actually hit a fairway wood, not something I enjoy. The second round was with a set of Titlelist irons and Callaway woods that included a nice 4 Hyrbid. The Titlelist were really easy to hit and were as nice as my own Pings but mine about $600 cheaper to buy brand newlol
My Mexico rounds were decent, one 89 and one 93, one played with my ex's boyfriend, a decent guy who I enjoyed playing with, and the last round as part of a foursome with some other people from the resort. This round may eventually end up being a separate blog as it was pretty much any single heterosexual males dream group, I'll let you ponder than and come up with your own visions lol.
The other factors that made the season my best ever included getting asked to play in our companies foursome for the annual golf tournament put on by the parent company. The group I joined had finished in 2nd place 3 years running and we managed to win it this year by 1 stroke!!! Not that I was the deciding factor as I had to have some of the shortest drives but my wedge work and putting more than made up for my lack of distance in this best ball format.
The final factor was my traditional birthday round of golf. Now for my birthday every year I treat myself to a round at a course that is usually out of my range price wise. Last year it was The Marshes and the two years prior to that included Loch March and The Canadian.
This year I played my birthday round at Stittsville, not an expensive course but the difference was that my son joined me for a full round of golf, the first time we've played a round together in probably 9 years or so. What made it better was that it was his idea to play a round with me. I had a huge smile when we checked in at the clubhouse and got to introduce him to everyone and saw the look on his face when he realized every single person we interacted with knew me on a first name basis and had something nice to say to me, from the club pro to the women working the refreshment stand to the groundskeeper we ran into on the first tee who let me know pin placements on each hole since they'd switched over to new flags and the colour codes weren't on the scorecards yet.
I didn't play a bad round, shot an even 90, but probably got a bigger kick out of watching my son play so well and hear him tell me at the end that he couldn't wait for our round next year on my birthday.
Golf has been and will continue to be my own versions of yoga and meditation all rolled into one.
Now matter how bad I play, and trust me the bad rounds happen far more often than I'd like, I still come away feeling mentally recharged. I use the time on the course to think over the things going on in my life, talking to myself as I play the round, reminding myself of the little things I need to focus on, and reminding myself that each day is like a clean slate, to be filled with the words and actions that I want without influence from yesterday or tomorrow.
Now here is the odd thing about my golf season this year........it ended back in early September when I put my clubs away even though there was still probably about a month of golf left for 2018.
Why did I put them away so early you are probably wondering.........the answer is simple to me but probably not simple enough for anyone else to understand.
It was simply the right time for me to stop playing. My season had more good rounds than bad and I wanted to end it on a high note, so with the tournament win and my birthday round in August, followed up with two rounds in the mid to high 80's the time was right to put the sticks away for another year.
Every year I seem to make one big purchase that fills a gap in my golf bag. 2015 saw the new Ping G30 irons added courtesy of Corinne, 2016 was a new Nike Vapour Driver, 2017 was a new Titlelist Vokey Wedge, and this year was, well nothing really. I replaced my worn out golf shoes but between a $50 gift card from my son from last Christmas and a scratch off ticket at Golf Town that took an additional 25% of the cost I ended up spending something like $26 for new Adidas spikeless golf shoes.
Now 2019 will be another story as I plan on getting a new putter and will go about doing it the right way and get fitted properly, like I did when I got the new Pings in 2015. I've never really invested in a great putter and given it is literally the only club you are 100% going to use on every single hole, unless you manage to hole out a wedge shot, it makes sense to make an investment in a good one.
It's not like I have had bad putters in my bag. My ex gave me a nice Taylor Made Nubbins as a wedding gift back in 2001 but it's kind of gotten a bit long in the tooth, like the guy using it lol, others I've used include another Taylor Made (Ghost), a decent Ping Shea H, and the current Taylor Made (White Smoke). The problem is one is perfectly balanced (White Smoke) but more like a traditional blade putter and other is a semi mallet design (Ping Shea H) that isn't as balanced. I spent this season switching back and forth between the White Smoke and the Shea H but never really felt completely comfortable with either one to fully commit to it.
I'm leaning towards a Titlelist Scotty Cameron but they run between $300-$500 each, kind of steep but still my preference as I know I'll get good use out of it if I can only get the right length and alignment.
Oh, and I have to get my irons regripped but that probably won't be more than $75 or so. I learned the hard way that irons need to be regripped about every 50 rounds or so, I left the grips on my old irons from 2000 to 2014 and could I ever feel the difference when the new grips were installed, like 10 yards of additional distance difference :-)
So that's my post on golf this season. I had some great rounds, a couple I'd like to forget, one tournament win, one father son bonding round, and some things to consider for next season.
My name is Marcus and I'm coming to slowly realize that the odds of my shooting in the low 80's are probably better than the odds of me meeting my one, but that doesn't mean I'm giving up...yet
Today's musical suggestion is Patio Lanterns by Kim Mitchell. A good Canadian artist from the 90's who knew how to turn a lyric.
Given the time of year it seems kind of odd to talk about golf but I've always marched to a different drummer than most people :)
Additionally, seeing how few posts I've done lately the reader might have expected my newest entry to talk about love, relationships, the recent legalization of marijuana, or the polarization between the left and the right here in Canada. Rest assured, these are still topics near to my heart and sure to result in a post or two down the road.
But for now, let's talk about my 4th favourite thing in life - Golf :-)
Wait, you ask what are numbers 1-3?
Really? you can't figure that one out by yourself......gotta say that makes me wonder.....
Number 1 - Jack, my incredibly awesome grandson who is the pure light in my heart.
Number 2 - my daughter and son, both of whom amaze me every single day with the adults they've developed into over the years. Might now have worked out with they're mother, but man did we make two pretty amazing kids, if I do say so myself, and I do say so!
Number 3 - Moki the Wonder Puppy. I know at 7 years old she isn't really a puppy but she still acts like one and probably will her entire life.
Coming in number 4 is golf, though I do like to tell the kids that sometimes it's Jack and than Golf in my order of preferences lol
So back to golf.........
I got a late start to my game this year due to the health scare, surgery, and complications, didn't really play my first round until early July but did try and make up for it by playing multiple rounds every weekend at my club, Stittsville Golf.
Due to the health issue and corresponding late start I didn't renew my membership and thus ended up playing the majority of my rounds in the afternoon when rates were better.
I think I managed to play around 25 rounds, down substantially from last years +50 rounds all around the Ottawa region. All of my rounds this year were at Stittsville, due to the aforementioned pricing as well as the course being fairly close to home and I know it like the back of my hand.
Now even though I didn't get as many round in this season as last I still consider it one of my best seasons ever!!
What made it so good? A lot of things I guess come into play when I make that statement. First among them was the simple fact that I got to play at all when there was a chance that wouldn't be the case at the start of the year. I think that fact more than anything convinced me to play a couple of rounds back in January when we were down in Mexico for my daughters wedding. As much as I love to play, I'm quite adverse to playing a round with anything other than my own clubs for the simple reason that I know my distances with them, other clubs leave me feeling confused as the distances hit by various clubs can vary by up to 15 yards. Now that might not seem like much but when you are 145 yards out and know you can hit your 7 iron and put the ball on the green it means everything, as if you now find yourself 15 yards short of the green or 15 yards past the green you can find yourself in a bunker or water, should the hole be an island green.
I got lucky in Mexico and with my first round was given a set of Ping G20's, only one version older than my own Pings G30's, and clubs I was familiar with, though there was no Hybrid to hit off the fairways and thus I was forced to actually hit a fairway wood, not something I enjoy. The second round was with a set of Titlelist irons and Callaway woods that included a nice 4 Hyrbid. The Titlelist were really easy to hit and were as nice as my own Pings but mine about $600 cheaper to buy brand newlol
My Mexico rounds were decent, one 89 and one 93, one played with my ex's boyfriend, a decent guy who I enjoyed playing with, and the last round as part of a foursome with some other people from the resort. This round may eventually end up being a separate blog as it was pretty much any single heterosexual males dream group, I'll let you ponder than and come up with your own visions lol.
The other factors that made the season my best ever included getting asked to play in our companies foursome for the annual golf tournament put on by the parent company. The group I joined had finished in 2nd place 3 years running and we managed to win it this year by 1 stroke!!! Not that I was the deciding factor as I had to have some of the shortest drives but my wedge work and putting more than made up for my lack of distance in this best ball format.
The final factor was my traditional birthday round of golf. Now for my birthday every year I treat myself to a round at a course that is usually out of my range price wise. Last year it was The Marshes and the two years prior to that included Loch March and The Canadian.
This year I played my birthday round at Stittsville, not an expensive course but the difference was that my son joined me for a full round of golf, the first time we've played a round together in probably 9 years or so. What made it better was that it was his idea to play a round with me. I had a huge smile when we checked in at the clubhouse and got to introduce him to everyone and saw the look on his face when he realized every single person we interacted with knew me on a first name basis and had something nice to say to me, from the club pro to the women working the refreshment stand to the groundskeeper we ran into on the first tee who let me know pin placements on each hole since they'd switched over to new flags and the colour codes weren't on the scorecards yet.
I didn't play a bad round, shot an even 90, but probably got a bigger kick out of watching my son play so well and hear him tell me at the end that he couldn't wait for our round next year on my birthday.
Golf has been and will continue to be my own versions of yoga and meditation all rolled into one.
Now matter how bad I play, and trust me the bad rounds happen far more often than I'd like, I still come away feeling mentally recharged. I use the time on the course to think over the things going on in my life, talking to myself as I play the round, reminding myself of the little things I need to focus on, and reminding myself that each day is like a clean slate, to be filled with the words and actions that I want without influence from yesterday or tomorrow.
Now here is the odd thing about my golf season this year........it ended back in early September when I put my clubs away even though there was still probably about a month of golf left for 2018.
Why did I put them away so early you are probably wondering.........the answer is simple to me but probably not simple enough for anyone else to understand.
It was simply the right time for me to stop playing. My season had more good rounds than bad and I wanted to end it on a high note, so with the tournament win and my birthday round in August, followed up with two rounds in the mid to high 80's the time was right to put the sticks away for another year.
Every year I seem to make one big purchase that fills a gap in my golf bag. 2015 saw the new Ping G30 irons added courtesy of Corinne, 2016 was a new Nike Vapour Driver, 2017 was a new Titlelist Vokey Wedge, and this year was, well nothing really. I replaced my worn out golf shoes but between a $50 gift card from my son from last Christmas and a scratch off ticket at Golf Town that took an additional 25% of the cost I ended up spending something like $26 for new Adidas spikeless golf shoes.
Now 2019 will be another story as I plan on getting a new putter and will go about doing it the right way and get fitted properly, like I did when I got the new Pings in 2015. I've never really invested in a great putter and given it is literally the only club you are 100% going to use on every single hole, unless you manage to hole out a wedge shot, it makes sense to make an investment in a good one.
It's not like I have had bad putters in my bag. My ex gave me a nice Taylor Made Nubbins as a wedding gift back in 2001 but it's kind of gotten a bit long in the tooth, like the guy using it lol, others I've used include another Taylor Made (Ghost), a decent Ping Shea H, and the current Taylor Made (White Smoke). The problem is one is perfectly balanced (White Smoke) but more like a traditional blade putter and other is a semi mallet design (Ping Shea H) that isn't as balanced. I spent this season switching back and forth between the White Smoke and the Shea H but never really felt completely comfortable with either one to fully commit to it.
I'm leaning towards a Titlelist Scotty Cameron but they run between $300-$500 each, kind of steep but still my preference as I know I'll get good use out of it if I can only get the right length and alignment.
Oh, and I have to get my irons regripped but that probably won't be more than $75 or so. I learned the hard way that irons need to be regripped about every 50 rounds or so, I left the grips on my old irons from 2000 to 2014 and could I ever feel the difference when the new grips were installed, like 10 yards of additional distance difference :-)
So that's my post on golf this season. I had some great rounds, a couple I'd like to forget, one tournament win, one father son bonding round, and some things to consider for next season.
My name is Marcus and I'm coming to slowly realize that the odds of my shooting in the low 80's are probably better than the odds of me meeting my one, but that doesn't mean I'm giving up...yet
Today's musical suggestion is Patio Lanterns by Kim Mitchell. A good Canadian artist from the 90's who knew how to turn a lyric.
Sunday, October 7, 2018
Happy Thanksgiving Canada
Sunday, October 07/18
Well tomorrow is Thanksgiving in Canada and I wanted to take a moment to wish all my fellow Canadians a Happy Thanksgiving, hoping you are able to share some warm times and good food with family and friends.
My son and I will be heading over to my daughters house tomorrow to partake of some turkey, ham, and all the fixings. When I saw her this morning she was literally bouncing with anticipation about hosting the family dinner, so much that I had to stifle my laugh lest she think I wasn't taking her serious.
Over the years I've watched both my kids develop into well rounded adults, who have brought me much joy a little worry now and again, but in the end I've come to realize that the ex and I did a pretty damn good job raising them as co-parents.
I know that my son has it easier with me than my daughter did as I came into her life when she was 5 years old and really learned how to be a dad with her, much to his benefit, but at the same time I don't remember that part of my life where I wasn't her daddy.
Life can throw us some unexpected twists but the key is being able to keep your feet from becoming too firmly planted so you can change directions as warranted.
Three years ago I was making my first Thanksgiving Dinner for my family, albeit with a lot of assistance from Corinna, and I can say thinking back on that day makes me appreciate those who have come into my life, whether for a moment, a season, or forvever!!
Forever doesn't mean they are physically still part of your life but that the influence they created has stayed with you through the test of time.
I'm pretty damn lucky to say that has been the case with a couple of people who had large parts in shaping the man I am today.
Stay warm and always remember............you are important to someone, whether you might not realize it or not.
Marcus
Today's musical recommendation is an oldie but goodie......"We've Got Tonight" by Bob Segar & The Silver Bullet Band
Well tomorrow is Thanksgiving in Canada and I wanted to take a moment to wish all my fellow Canadians a Happy Thanksgiving, hoping you are able to share some warm times and good food with family and friends.
My son and I will be heading over to my daughters house tomorrow to partake of some turkey, ham, and all the fixings. When I saw her this morning she was literally bouncing with anticipation about hosting the family dinner, so much that I had to stifle my laugh lest she think I wasn't taking her serious.
Over the years I've watched both my kids develop into well rounded adults, who have brought me much joy a little worry now and again, but in the end I've come to realize that the ex and I did a pretty damn good job raising them as co-parents.
I know that my son has it easier with me than my daughter did as I came into her life when she was 5 years old and really learned how to be a dad with her, much to his benefit, but at the same time I don't remember that part of my life where I wasn't her daddy.
Life can throw us some unexpected twists but the key is being able to keep your feet from becoming too firmly planted so you can change directions as warranted.
Three years ago I was making my first Thanksgiving Dinner for my family, albeit with a lot of assistance from Corinna, and I can say thinking back on that day makes me appreciate those who have come into my life, whether for a moment, a season, or forvever!!
Forever doesn't mean they are physically still part of your life but that the influence they created has stayed with you through the test of time.
I'm pretty damn lucky to say that has been the case with a couple of people who had large parts in shaping the man I am today.
Stay warm and always remember............you are important to someone, whether you might not realize it or not.
Marcus
Today's musical recommendation is an oldie but goodie......"We've Got Tonight" by Bob Segar & The Silver Bullet Band
Sunday, September 30, 2018
Ponder this and I'll be back in a bit
Sunday, September 30/18
There are two gifts every parent should give their children:
Roots upon which to grow and wings with which to discover the world around themselves.
It's been far longer than I like since I last posted a blog and there really is no solid reason for it other than I just haven't been putting the time into getting any presentable.
Not like there aren't a lot of things I can blog about but more just me not being able to motivate myself to do them, and no it's not because I've been busy golfing or dating, though I was doing both of those things for a bit, maybe there is a blog entry about each of my recent adventures around each of them lol
Marcus
There are two gifts every parent should give their children:
Roots upon which to grow and wings with which to discover the world around themselves.
It's been far longer than I like since I last posted a blog and there really is no solid reason for it other than I just haven't been putting the time into getting any presentable.
Not like there aren't a lot of things I can blog about but more just me not being able to motivate myself to do them, and no it's not because I've been busy golfing or dating, though I was doing both of those things for a bit, maybe there is a blog entry about each of my recent adventures around each of them lol
Marcus
Thursday, August 23, 2018
Hitting the 5 Year Mark Soon
Wednesday, August 22/18
So I was looking at the statistics for the blog earlier tonight and have to admit to being a little bit impressed with it.
I've got 521 entries posted over a 5 year span, or an entry every 3.5 days. That's a better rate than I actually imagined I was generating. Granted, some of those days saw multiple posts and there were long stretches where I didn't even look at the blog, but still, you've got to give me some props for hitting the +500 mark for a blog that isn't designed to make me any money :-)
The other fact that still amazes me is the number of countries in which people have read an entry from the blog. Still leading the way are Canada and the United States, but pushing hard for recognition are England, Australia, Russia, and Germany.
I've got 9 entries in draft mode that may or may not see the light of day anytime soon, really sort of depends on my mood and how I think they'll be perceived.
I'll admit there have been times I wish this was all I did and other times I wish I'd never written the first entry, it's been both a boon and a curse at different times in my life.
In many ways I view the blog like I do dating......a necessary evil in order to retain the last shreds of my sanity and possibly not end up alone in my old age.
So come October I'll have a nice glass of Pinot Grigio to celebrate five years online baring my soul, the joys and tears of dating in today's age of online instant buffet satisfaction, and maybe be a bit closer to meeting my one........or no closer than I was yesterday....guess time will tell
Marcus
So I was looking at the statistics for the blog earlier tonight and have to admit to being a little bit impressed with it.
I've got 521 entries posted over a 5 year span, or an entry every 3.5 days. That's a better rate than I actually imagined I was generating. Granted, some of those days saw multiple posts and there were long stretches where I didn't even look at the blog, but still, you've got to give me some props for hitting the +500 mark for a blog that isn't designed to make me any money :-)
The other fact that still amazes me is the number of countries in which people have read an entry from the blog. Still leading the way are Canada and the United States, but pushing hard for recognition are England, Australia, Russia, and Germany.
I've got 9 entries in draft mode that may or may not see the light of day anytime soon, really sort of depends on my mood and how I think they'll be perceived.
I'll admit there have been times I wish this was all I did and other times I wish I'd never written the first entry, it's been both a boon and a curse at different times in my life.
In many ways I view the blog like I do dating......a necessary evil in order to retain the last shreds of my sanity and possibly not end up alone in my old age.
So come October I'll have a nice glass of Pinot Grigio to celebrate five years online baring my soul, the joys and tears of dating in today's age of online instant buffet satisfaction, and maybe be a bit closer to meeting my one........or no closer than I was yesterday....guess time will tell
Marcus
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
A Couple Of Thoughts On The Dance We Call Dating..........
Wednesday, August 22/18
So I've been sort of busy the last little while and as a consequence kind of neglecting the blog.
To make amends for this egregious behavior please enjoy the snippets below and know I've got a couple of new entries nearing completion :)
"I'm just not looking for anything serious right now" - a woman who's about to start a long term relationship....with someone else.
"Let's definitely still be friends, though, okay?" - a woman you will never hear from again.
"You're so paranoid, babe. It's just my roommate" - a woman who is definitely texting guys she met on the Internet during your dinner date.
"I really need to work on myself" - a woman who thinks you should probably work on yourself.
"I'm, like totally cool with the casual thing" - a woman who's been planning her wedding day since she was six years old.
"I'm absolutely not a fuck boy" - A Fuck Boy.
"Don't you think monogamy is such an antiquated concept" - a man who will cheat on you as soon as the honeymoon stage ends.
"Eight rock hard inches" - An exaggerator.
"Maybe someday, when the timing is better" - a woman who could not be less interested in ever seeing you again.
"No, nice guys don't always finish last" A girl who has never dated a nice guy in her entire adult life.
"I need some space" - A guy who is too nice to tell you he hates the way you chew.
"He's really.....funny" - A girl who thinks you're cute, but not cute enough to date.
"You Never Said We Were Exclusive" - a guy with multiple side-chicks.
"What biological clock? I don't want babies until I'm thirty five" a twenty-nine-year-old single woman trying desperately not to freak out her date.
"I can't feel anything when I use one of those" - A pull out method advocate.
"Do you believe in soul mates?" - A man who will undoubtedly get in your pants before the night is over.
"I'm not crazy" - A psycho stage-five clinger.
"I love you" - A glutton for punishment.
All of the above are courtesy of "The Monday Girl" by Julie Johnson
My name is Marcus and I'm still reading romance stories on my iPad, AKA the Glutton for Punishment :)
So I've been sort of busy the last little while and as a consequence kind of neglecting the blog.
To make amends for this egregious behavior please enjoy the snippets below and know I've got a couple of new entries nearing completion :)
"I'm just not looking for anything serious right now" - a woman who's about to start a long term relationship....with someone else.
"Let's definitely still be friends, though, okay?" - a woman you will never hear from again.
"You're so paranoid, babe. It's just my roommate" - a woman who is definitely texting guys she met on the Internet during your dinner date.
"I really need to work on myself" - a woman who thinks you should probably work on yourself.
"I'm, like totally cool with the casual thing" - a woman who's been planning her wedding day since she was six years old.
"I'm absolutely not a fuck boy" - A Fuck Boy.
"Don't you think monogamy is such an antiquated concept" - a man who will cheat on you as soon as the honeymoon stage ends.
"Eight rock hard inches" - An exaggerator.
"Maybe someday, when the timing is better" - a woman who could not be less interested in ever seeing you again.
"No, nice guys don't always finish last" A girl who has never dated a nice guy in her entire adult life.
"I need some space" - A guy who is too nice to tell you he hates the way you chew.
"He's really.....funny" - A girl who thinks you're cute, but not cute enough to date.
"You Never Said We Were Exclusive" - a guy with multiple side-chicks.
"What biological clock? I don't want babies until I'm thirty five" a twenty-nine-year-old single woman trying desperately not to freak out her date.
"I can't feel anything when I use one of those" - A pull out method advocate.
"Do you believe in soul mates?" - A man who will undoubtedly get in your pants before the night is over.
"I'm not crazy" - A psycho stage-five clinger.
"I love you" - A glutton for punishment.
All of the above are courtesy of "The Monday Girl" by Julie Johnson
My name is Marcus and I'm still reading romance stories on my iPad, AKA the Glutton for Punishment :)
Wednesday, August 8, 2018
Nulli Secundus........A Simple Latin Phrase
Wednesday, August 08/18
Nulli Secundus.........Second to none
I first heard this phrase a few years back and didn't give it the significance it deserved at the time but it's crossed my mind more than a few times and come to have a very special meaning to me.
Honestly, I get so many reminders of that period in my life that I doubt I'll ever not say it to myself at least once a week until the day I take my last breathe.........
Yesterday, today, and all the tomorrows...........you shall forevermore be Nulli Secundus to me
Marcus
Update Oct 27/18 - I've received quite a few messages asking who this blog is about and all I'll say is she knows who she is and I hope she understands the message.
Nulli Secundus.........Second to none
I first heard this phrase a few years back and didn't give it the significance it deserved at the time but it's crossed my mind more than a few times and come to have a very special meaning to me.
Honestly, I get so many reminders of that period in my life that I doubt I'll ever not say it to myself at least once a week until the day I take my last breathe.........
Yesterday, today, and all the tomorrows...........you shall forevermore be Nulli Secundus to me
Marcus
Update Oct 27/18 - I've received quite a few messages asking who this blog is about and all I'll say is she knows who she is and I hope she understands the message.
Sunday, August 5, 2018
Baby Jack's New Game
Sunday, August 05/18
So I was supposed to go over and see my daughter and grandson yesterday while her husband was working but plans got derailed when Jack fought against taking his nap and they ended up getting invited to go to a friends house for some swimming, I was told I could come over later but I had a tee time booked with a friend for the afternoon so we made plans for me to come visit this morning.
When I got there my daughter and son-in-law were in the front yard moving some plants around and Jack was walking around giving them directions. The coolest thing happened as I pulled up and got out of the car, Jack saw me and started yelling and laughing, grabbed his mom's arm and pointed at me. He's been doing stuff like this more and more and I have to admit, he steals more of my heart each time he flashes his smile at me.
When I walked up to them he reached out for to me pick him up, which I did while also planting a smooch on his cheeks, making him laugh and hiding his face in my neck.
He wanted down and when I put him down he grabbed my hand and made me follow him into the garage where his Audi stroller was parked. he climbed in and pointed at the handle for me to push him around lol
I pushed him back to the front yard and asked my daughter if I could take him down to the park for a bit, she agreed and asked her husband to get him a clean shirt and his hat and sandals. Well when he went to pick Jack up to take him inside to change him, Jack lost his mind and started crying and clutching at my leg. My daughter laughed and my son-in-law smiled as he said it looked like grandpa needed to get him ready.
Once I got him changed we walked down to the park where over the course of the next 45 minutes Jack went on the swing, all three slides, and showed grandpa how good he was at climbing the assorted ladders on both play structures before he started to lose steam and looked a little tired.
We said our goodbyes to the other parents and kids at the park and headed home.
When we got home you could see him fighting falling asleep but his mom wanted him to have a little snack before nap time so off to the kitchen we went to have a bagel.
Now here is where it gets fun as Jack wanted a fruit pouch, this snack that had a little lid and lets one squeeze out the fruit and suck it like a straw.
His mom gave him one with apples and banana's that is his favourite. Now I was sitting on the floor facing the couch talking to my son-in-law about my upcoming days off where I'm going to watch Jack while his regular daycare is on holiday when my daughter sat down next to him and started laughing so hard I thought she might wet herself.
She told me to turn around and look at Jack so I did so, except each time I turned one way he'd move over to stay behind me with this little grin on his face, I tried turning the other way and he turned to match my movement, staying just behind me and out of my view. We did this a few times when he started to lift his fruit pouch as if to squirt some on my back and we all burst out laughing, well I was laughing till the little bugger actually squirted me and started dancing around me.
He tried this a couple of more times as my daughter went to scoop him up in her arms, apologizing to me for the mess but I just smiled and told her not to worry as seeing him laugh and smile was worth anything to me.
Jack shortly hit the energy wall at that point and crashed hard for his nap, but not before giving grandpa a kiss and hug.
I'm watching him on the 15th and 16th and can't wait as I've got some activities planned like the splash pad near my house, Chapters for some new books, and even a Dairy Queen run for a cone.
My name is Marcus and my grandson owns my heart lock, stock, and barrel. I'd love to share all of these special moments with him with my one and maybe it will happen, but until that time I guess I'll be greedy to keep them all to myself :)
Today's musical suggestion is Tropicalia by Beck from his 1998 album Mutations.
So I was supposed to go over and see my daughter and grandson yesterday while her husband was working but plans got derailed when Jack fought against taking his nap and they ended up getting invited to go to a friends house for some swimming, I was told I could come over later but I had a tee time booked with a friend for the afternoon so we made plans for me to come visit this morning.
When I got there my daughter and son-in-law were in the front yard moving some plants around and Jack was walking around giving them directions. The coolest thing happened as I pulled up and got out of the car, Jack saw me and started yelling and laughing, grabbed his mom's arm and pointed at me. He's been doing stuff like this more and more and I have to admit, he steals more of my heart each time he flashes his smile at me.
When I walked up to them he reached out for to me pick him up, which I did while also planting a smooch on his cheeks, making him laugh and hiding his face in my neck.
He wanted down and when I put him down he grabbed my hand and made me follow him into the garage where his Audi stroller was parked. he climbed in and pointed at the handle for me to push him around lol
I pushed him back to the front yard and asked my daughter if I could take him down to the park for a bit, she agreed and asked her husband to get him a clean shirt and his hat and sandals. Well when he went to pick Jack up to take him inside to change him, Jack lost his mind and started crying and clutching at my leg. My daughter laughed and my son-in-law smiled as he said it looked like grandpa needed to get him ready.
Once I got him changed we walked down to the park where over the course of the next 45 minutes Jack went on the swing, all three slides, and showed grandpa how good he was at climbing the assorted ladders on both play structures before he started to lose steam and looked a little tired.
We said our goodbyes to the other parents and kids at the park and headed home.
When we got home you could see him fighting falling asleep but his mom wanted him to have a little snack before nap time so off to the kitchen we went to have a bagel.
Now here is where it gets fun as Jack wanted a fruit pouch, this snack that had a little lid and lets one squeeze out the fruit and suck it like a straw.
His mom gave him one with apples and banana's that is his favourite. Now I was sitting on the floor facing the couch talking to my son-in-law about my upcoming days off where I'm going to watch Jack while his regular daycare is on holiday when my daughter sat down next to him and started laughing so hard I thought she might wet herself.
She told me to turn around and look at Jack so I did so, except each time I turned one way he'd move over to stay behind me with this little grin on his face, I tried turning the other way and he turned to match my movement, staying just behind me and out of my view. We did this a few times when he started to lift his fruit pouch as if to squirt some on my back and we all burst out laughing, well I was laughing till the little bugger actually squirted me and started dancing around me.
He tried this a couple of more times as my daughter went to scoop him up in her arms, apologizing to me for the mess but I just smiled and told her not to worry as seeing him laugh and smile was worth anything to me.
Jack shortly hit the energy wall at that point and crashed hard for his nap, but not before giving grandpa a kiss and hug.
I'm watching him on the 15th and 16th and can't wait as I've got some activities planned like the splash pad near my house, Chapters for some new books, and even a Dairy Queen run for a cone.
My name is Marcus and my grandson owns my heart lock, stock, and barrel. I'd love to share all of these special moments with him with my one and maybe it will happen, but until that time I guess I'll be greedy to keep them all to myself :)
Today's musical suggestion is Tropicalia by Beck from his 1998 album Mutations.
Saturday, August 4, 2018
If You Have A Few Moments & Need A Laugh
Saturday, August 04/18
So I've been doing more reading and YouTubing than anything lately and stumbled across a this series on YouTube that pays homage to the Addams Family......well sort of, more an adult version of everyone's favourite sociopath in training...Wednesday
It is pretty funny, least to this guy, and maybe you'll like it as well so I've attached a link to season one episode one for you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UD5fBjKwgEQ
Enjoy!
Marcus the merry blogger
So I've been doing more reading and YouTubing than anything lately and stumbled across a this series on YouTube that pays homage to the Addams Family......well sort of, more an adult version of everyone's favourite sociopath in training...Wednesday
It is pretty funny, least to this guy, and maybe you'll like it as well so I've attached a link to season one episode one for you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UD5fBjKwgEQ
Enjoy!
Marcus the merry blogger
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