Merrill&Martha

Happiness.

2011-03-10T19:44:00.000-08:00

Happiness is like a magic trick.

The more you practise it, the better the illusion that it's real. So, c'mon... practise, practise, practise. Let's be happy!

Photo: Jack, Lindsay and Darcy experience an unrehearsed moment of pure bliss. Happiness in its purest form!

"Thank you, Dear!"

2010-10-09T12:07:00.000-07:00

I'm here to confess! The only times we were ever together was when she was in her nightgown -- and in her bedroom. She had a profound affect on me!

Her name? Well, to protect her privacy, let's call her Hazel. I spent about 10 nights with her and her husband over the last month. Hazel and hubbie were not adjusting well to the old folks home where they had come to live, so I was hired to sit with them through the night should they need comforting -- or need help finding their way to the bathroom.

Both Hazel and her husband suffer from dementia.

Last week I was just about to help Hazel out of bed for her second trip to the bathroom.

"Oh, you dear man," she said, "can you hand me my glasses. I'm blind as a bat without them."

She took the glasses, perched them carefully on her nose, then looked me straight in the eye and said, "Oh! Hello! Who are you?"

God love her. Hazel died this week, a few days before Thanksgiving.

But not before she taught me about the power of a positive attitude -- and gratitude!

I have never met a woman who was more positive. She was always cheerful, always seemed to be happy, and always appreciative.

I would help guide her and her walker to the bathroom, then help her get back into bed. After each trip she would tell me how nice it had been and how much she appreciated it. "Thank you, thank you, thank you, Dear!" It was as if I had just taken her on a trip to Paris!

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. I am so grateful for having met this wonderful woman. A woman who was grateful for every little thing.

...sense of humour...

2010-01-21T20:37:00.000-08:00

I asked the question. I looked into the eyes of Sheila, my cousin's wife, and asked, "What's the secret of a happy marriage?" She didn't hesitate for a moment when she said, "Look at us. All of us in this room. I think the answer is obvious. A sense of humour." Oh. My. God. She's right. A sense of humour.

I was asked the same question a week ago when I was asked by the interviewer, "If you were seeking a caregiver for your elderly mother or father or relative, what quality would you seek?" My answer was easy: "A sense of humour."

Yes.

A smile.

A laugh.

Anything. That brings a smile.

That...is what I would ask for. That...is what's important.

Think about it.

Is there anything more important...

...than something that makes you smile?!!!

Photo: Martha, Roy (my cousin), Sheila, Laura, Brian. This was the first time we have all been in the same room together. And oh how wonderful it was. We all connected. we talked about the old days. We shed tears thinking about the ones who are gone, the ones we miss. We felt new feelings...feeling lucky that we we all got to meet after 30 years, even if it was for one brief afternoon. These. These. These. These are the moments to live for.

Costco Christmas

2009-12-23T08:16:00.000-08:00

Okay, Martha and I were at Costco last week.

Christmas is a great time to shop Costco, because it seems that at the end of every aisle there is someone giving out a free sample of some kind of food! Bits of cheese. Fudge. Fancy crackers. Yummy. A tasty cornucopia of free Christmas munchies.

So I approach one of the sample tables. An African-American woman is slicing mini slabs of honey-smoked ham, jabbing each piece with a toothpick and offering samples to passers-by.

She's wearing a Santa hat.

I lean in and whisper to her, "So, do you commute from the North Pole every day?"

"Of course!" she responded, with a twinkle in her eye.

"But," she continues, "I'll let you in on a little secret."

Then she lowered her voice and leaned closer to my ear.

"This isn't ham." she said, "It's really reindeer!"

Now there's a woman with a bona-fide Christmas sense of humour!

Christmas Lights

2009-12-20T08:55:00.000-08:00

We are of the opinion that the person who invented icicle lights deserves a special place in Heaven. There's just something about the way they glow, it kind of puts you in the Christmas spirit, don't you think? Can't you just hear the clatter of those little hoofs on the roof? Ho, ho, ho!

Photo: Jack, Martha and Johnathan doing the Christmas thing on a warm California day.

The Last Thing

2009-09-14T13:50:00.000-07:00

Death!

It's not the scariest thing,

or worst thing that will happen to you.

It's just the last thing that will happen to you!

Photo: Lunch turned into a photo shoot. Aunt Lib - visiting from Calgary - took the shot, and was quite proud of herself that it turned out so well!

My Favourite Regret

2009-07-01T15:37:00.000-07:00

I remember the last time I quit smoking: December 18, 2006 -- Madurai, South India. It lasted until March 2009 when I bought a pack of Players Ultra Lites, Bowen Island, BC. Typical of me. I know it's bad but I keep going back.

This time I've set my sights on quitting for a year -- until my next birthday. Do-able, I think.

And I have a "quitting partner", someone who also wants to shed this filthy, stupid habit. I won't mention her name but her initials are Valerie H. Oops! Anyway, Val and I have promised: no cheating and no lying. Meaning, if you do fall off the wagon, at least admit it.

I also admit...I have had a lot of great and memorable "smoking" moments. And I don't totally regret taking it up. But it sure will be a bummer if these "f*cking things end up killing me. I would join the long line of idiots who allowed this addiction to take hold!

It's been nearly 24 hours and I'm still clean. Honest! (Comments welcome)

Photo: Wyndham House barn. June 30, 2009.

Not One Cake Lost!

2009-07-01T14:11:00.000-07:00

Over the years it became the drill: Merrill has a birthday...he spins his birthday cake upside down like a freakin' ferris wheel. It could, arguably, be the thing I am remembered for most in the coming years -- after I'm dead, of course. Well, here's the 2009 version! On a video clip.

It was my sister Leona's fault...we were about to cut the cake....

"Aren't you going to spin it?" she said.

Honestly, I hadn't done it for years and had almost forgotten about it. But, in true Merrill fashion, maverick-lunatic style. I went for it. And...YAY...my record stands. Not one cake lost!!!

Photo: I'm somewhere in my late 50's. Who gives a shit? So stop asking!

Patient Doing Well

2009-07-01T12:20:00.000-07:00

General anaesthetic is a bitch.

Recovery after surgery can be nauseating and lengthy.

But, Martha had a "spinal" for her foot surgery. Which means no post-operative grogginess. No nausea. No pain. And best of all, as soon as you're back in your hospital room, you can eat immediately.

As soon as Martha had been wheeled into her room after the procedure I was there to check on her.

"How are you doing, Honey?" I said.

"I'm great," she replied, "But do you think you could go downstairs and get me a chocolate donut and a coffee?"

After "textbook successful" surgery, the patient is doing well. Very well! (Comments welcome)

Photo: The cast is huge. And needs to stay on for two weeks. It will be replaced by a smaller one which will remain on for another month after that.

Martha's Left Foot

2009-06-18T11:45:00.000-07:00

We've been waiting for 2 years. For this surgery. Martha's left foot --despite all the bunion surgeries and footrubs -- just gave out. But the miracles of (a) good old western medicine and (b) a gifted surgeon, will soon put it straight. And Martha will soon be doing what she's been longing to do for years...walking without a limp. But she'll no longer be able to "put her best foot forward" because they'll both be great feet!

PHOTO: Toe to toe. Three-quarters of M&M feet.

Not the Macarena!

2009-05-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

"Ping Pong...is not the macarena. It is like a fine well-aged prostitute. She is cruel. And laughs at you when you are naked. Ha Ha. But still you keep coming back for more and more. Why? Because she is the only prostitute I can afford." from the movie "Balls of Fury"

Jack has found a new passion: ping pong. So, to accompany this photo it seemed only fitting that we include his favourite line from "Balls of Fury". Don't blame me, it wasn't my idea! Jack has an amazing talent for quoting lines from movies he has seen. And somehow, this line is one he loves to quote -- perhaps because of it's shock value?

I can only hope he continues to combine shock, humour, creativity -- and athleticism -- in his life. If so, he will never, ever be bored. And never lack for friends!

(Comments welcome) Photo: Jack with his Dad and Merrill setting up the new ping pong table...in the driveway. Gotta love California: ping pong by moonlight!

Ride 'em, Cowboy!

2009-05-03T07:16:00.000-07:00

My newfound love of cowboy boots and hat have triggered some comments:

(1)

A few weeks ago. Grocery store. I was the last one standing in line at the checkout. A woman employee comes up behind me -- to close the register. She grabs the little chain and clicks it into place to block the lane behind me.

She says, "I'm gonna chain you up, buddy."

So I reply, "I love it when a woman says that to me."

She shoots me a look and a smile, and says, "I'll bet you do! You cowboys are all the same." Then she adds, "Oh, and boots too! You guys are trouble!"

Smiles all around.

(2)

Same store. Last week. A little three-year-old girl spies me in the cereal aisle. She looks me up and down, and I hear her as I walk past,

"Mummy! Look!" she says, "Him is a cowboy."

(3)

Yesterday. Palm Springs. Wal Mart. I walk into the men's room. I'm standing at the, ahem, urinal, and a guy walks in.

I hear him say, "So where's the rodeo?"

Without looking up, I say, "Just down the street, but be careful -- make sure you bring your own horse because if you ride one they give you, you'll break your back."

He continues, "So, it's down the street is it? How far?"

I pause, thinking, what is this guy talking about?

He goes, "No really, there's a rodeo in town!"

So I say, "Sorry pal, I'm not with the rodeo, I'm from Twentynine Palms, and well, this is the way we dress up there?"

"Oh, I'm so sorry," he said, "You must have thought I was making fun of you."

"Well, I did, actually," I said, as I washed my hands, "But, believe me, pal, I've had a lifetime of it, so I'm used to it."

"Sorry," he says, and we both laugh. I walk out of the room, and tell him...

"No problem, pardner."

Dreams do come true!

2009-02-18T23:41:00.000-08:00

There were many cold winter nights in Toronto when Martha dreamed of this day: the day she'd be with both of her grand-brats around the pool, (in the winter) in the California sun. See...dreams do come true!

Smile! For the family photo!

2009-02-18T23:16:00.000-08:00

Photo Opportunity It had been a few years since we'd all been under the same roof. So, it made sense that we should take a family photo. The resulting image says a lot about this crowd!

PHOTO: Our friend and neighbour Norm Blietz captured the group doing what comes naturally!

A few metres from certain death!

2009-02-18T22:47:00.000-08:00

It seems like only a few years ago -- because it WAS only a few years ago -- that Cole and Jack could barely scramble up a rock the size of a refrigerator. Not any more! We went climbing last week and the boys and I made it to the top of The Intruder, a scary rock formation in Joshua Tree National Park. We made it by working as a team: at some places in the climb the only thing the guys had to hold onto was my leg, while I laid flat on my stomach! I was so proud of them.

Sometimes getting to the top is scary. And that's the best part! (comments welcome)

PHOTO: It's difficult taking a photo that conveys a true sense of height, a photo that shows we are a few metres from certain death!

"How's the weather."

2009-02-10T13:22:00.000-08:00

During the winter, when we're on the phone with friends and family in Canada, we always ask, "How's the weather?" It's funny. People used to ask us what the weather is like here in California. They don't any more! They've learned not to...it's too painful.

Photo: Early morning in February. An uncommon occurence: a winter rainbow in the desert. A stunning reminder that we're very lucky to be here, having discovered this treasure of a place.

Do it, Girl!

2009-02-06T20:56:00.000-08:00

A friend put it rather succinctly: "Merrill, that's so you. You're going to take pictures of women in their underwear and get paid for it. You son-of-a-bitch!" - comments welcome

PHOTO: This classified ad ran in the "Observation Post" official newspaper of the United States Marine Corps at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms. Martha and I ran the ad hoping that a lot of Marine wives want their man to have a hot photo in their wallet when they ship out to Iraq and Afghanistan. We'll keep you posted on how it goes.

Walking on water...

2008-12-30T20:52:00.000-08:00

Walking on water is the easy part!

Keeping romance alive...now that's a miracle!

But it's totally worth the effort. Give it your best shot!

We're flyin'....

2008-12-30T20:10:00.000-08:00

We're flyin'....
How can it be that a guy who loves California so much is having so much fun flying around the ice in Summerside, PEI...could it be that this is the place where he learned to skate, or is it that he's chasing a pretty girl? -Comments welcome

PHOTO: Martha captures Laura and Merrill doing their thing at the Credit Union Centre in Summerside, PEI. Laura admitted: "This is fun Merrill, but I feel more comfortable with a hockey stick in my hands!"

Using her gift!

2008-12-13T09:30:00.000-08:00

Our grand-niece Darcy was given an amazing singing voice, so it only seemed natural to us that she would have fun sharing it. It felt like a bit of a risk taking a 3-year-old into the recording studio but, omigosh, she was amazing. Her first song: a duet with Merrill, "Jingle Bells". If you want to hear it let me know and I'll email you the file. We had such fun.

Photo: Martha helps Darcy with her headphones. The recording was made in Crapaud, at the studio of Reg Ballagh.

It's not what it seems. It's worse.

2008-11-22T10:23:00.000-08:00

The photo doesn't even come close to capturing the day. High winds. Driving snow. The first big storm of the year. But on the bright side, we are almost guaranteed a white Christmas, because from the look of the forecast, this stuff is not going anywhere anytime soon.

This is our first Christmas in Canada in about 5 years. The white stuff is simply "making spirits bright. Oh what fun to ride and sing a sleighing song tonight!" (comments welcome)

Photo: This was just the beginning of the horror. An hour later I was stuck in a snowbank at the end of the driveway.

A word of advice: find great friends!

2008-11-17T17:54:00.000-08:00

Life is short. Find great friends. Here are two of ours. Liquid gold. I don't know who we have to thank for them but, well, whoever...thank you for Ralph and Tara. Ralph is 18 going on 12, a man we worship and adore. And Tara, well, sorry, there are no words.....(posted by Merrill, comments welcome)

Photo: Ralph studies up on "Sex and the City" and dreams of the day when Samantha comes into his physiotherapy clinic with back problems!

I dare you!

2008-11-17T17:34:00.000-08:00

I dare you to look at this picture and NOT get in the Christmas spirit. It's not possible. This delectable dessert was created by the amazing Tara, who claimed, "I just whipped it up. No biggie."

Typical understatement for Tara -- a woman who routinely refuses to acknowledge her amazing-ness!

The evening was yummy. Tara and Ralph are gold stars on our calendar. An evening spent with them is an annual highlight.

Christmas is coming. Thank you Tara, for giving us the visual...and the taste. (posted by Merrill, comments welcome)

PHOTO: I don't know how she did it but, baby, it was as orgasmic to taste as it was to look at!

Ah! Show Biz!

2008-11-11T15:55:00.001-08:00

It was a job somebody had to do.

Some local actresses needed publicity photos for an upcoming performance in nearby Charlottetown. So Martha and Merrill volunteered for the job. I was the photographer and Martha looked after jewellery and wardrobe for the girls. It was, to say the least, a slice!

Never a dull moment here at Wyndham House. -posted by Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: Our sweet but camera-shy model shows what she's got ...the real thing!

Those eyes. A window into that amazing imagination of hers!

2008-10-27T14:50:00.000-07:00

Darcy! Darling Darcy. Check out those blue eyes. Yummy.

How lucky for me and Martha! We got to be the ones who entertained Darcy on her very first sleepover away from home. She spent two nights with us at Wyndham House and she -- we think -- loved every last minute!

I enjoyed being her personal slave, "More ice cream Darcy?"....."Oh, you don't like Cheerios, how about some scrambled eggs?"....."Why of course we can watch, Mickey's Christmas again!"

But my favourite moment was when we helped her write a letter to Santa Claus. We drafted it, put it in an envelope, put a stamp on it and walked to the end of the lane and put it in the mailbox. As she closed the door on the mailbox she said, "Happy Christmas Mr Mailman!"

"Very telling," I thought!

At a moment when she could have been thinking only about herself and the presents Santa would bring, she was thinking about the mailman, the guy who would deliver the letter.

Oh, Darcy! Here's wishing you every imaginable happiness in life darling. (comments welcome)

Photo: Taken on the little wooden Biteau Bridge that goes "bumpity, bump, bump". She insisted we wait for at least 12 cars to go "bumpity, bump, bump" before we headed back to the house.

Properly disguised

2008-10-27T13:56:00.000-07:00

"Hallowe'en. We like to think of it as just one more day we can disguise the fact that we are incredibly, inutterably, indelibly....insane". (comments welcome)

Photo: The event was "Spooktacular" at the local middle school. About 200 kids aged 7-14...and us, the biggest kids of all.

Magic is still alive

2008-10-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

The local Historical Society held their fund-raiser here last night, it was called "An Evening at the Manse". About 24 people attended, and almost all of them had stories to tell: their childhood memories of being here in the house when it was the church Manse.

One comment stands out. Barbara Clement stood in the doorway of one of the bedrooms and said...

"I remember sitting on the edge of the bed in this room when Patsy, the Minister's daughter, told me there was no Santa Claus. I guess I already knew it," she said with a big sigh, "But I just wanted so desperately to believe."

Thankfully Barbara realized last evening that Martha and Merrill are doing everything they can in this old house, after all these years, to convince everyone that there really IS a Santa Claus. (comments welcome)

Photo: We used leaves to fashion a magic pathway from the church parking lot across the yard to Wyndham House...or, as it was known last night, the Manse.

I'm in Heaven!

2008-10-27T07:49:00.000-07:00

Well, maybe not Heaven, but at the Gateway Arena in Borden. Skating for the first time in about 5 years. I'm a little shaky but I'll get the legs in shape over the next couple of months. But here's the very best part...french fries with ketchup out of a paper box. Now that's living! See, I still am the luckiest man alive. I'm salivating just writing this! (comments welcome)

PHOTO: by Martha, who also had some fries and a hot chocolate. They have a great canteen here. I'll be back!

He asked once too often!

2008-10-26T15:37:00.000-07:00

Finally, Merrill asked for sex...ONCE TOO OFTEN.

"Enough," said Martha, "that's it. It's time to do this thing."

She decided it was easier to live alone than put up with the constant....well, you know!

Happy Hallowe'en. (comments welcome)

PHOTO: by Katelyn Craswell, who also helped Martha dispose of the body!

We are...Charlotte.

2008-10-08T19:17:00.000-07:00

We confess! We have become addicted to "Sex And The City".

We are hooked. We can barely go 48 hours without another hit.

And, like all other addicts (to the show) we ask, "Which character am I most like?"

At first it wasn't clear...but then, when we saw the movie (which is the 6-year "climax", when all the story lines are resolved and the series is finally over) it became obvious: We are Charlotte. (I apologize to those of you who haven't followed the series).

In the last few minutes of the movie there is a scene in which Charlotte confesses to her friend Carrie: "I have everything I ever wanted, she says "I'm so happy that I'm terrified.

"No-one gets everything that they want," she continues, "and of course something bad is going to happen to me."

And later, in another scene, Samanatha looks at Charlotte and asks, "How often do you feel happy in your relationship?"

To which Charlotte replies, "Every day."

Incredulous, Samantha persists, "You feel happy every day?"

"Yes." says Charlotte, "Not all day every day, but every day."

The few seconds of silence bear witness to how lucky the girls feel Charlotte is!

We are Charlotte.

-posted by Merrill (comments welcome)

ADORATION. Too strong?

2008-09-28T20:14:00.000-07:00

Is it too strong a word? If I mention the Craswell girls, why shouldn't I use the word "adore". Shown here are photos of Laura, Katelyn and Christine (Lois is away at school)...and once a year they come to spend the night. It's a night when Merrill straps on the apron, and his vest, to become their slave and worship these gals -- and serve them popcorn and drinks while they watch movies with Martha. It's their "diva" night and I look forward to it all year.

My friend, if you get to meet women like this just ONCE in your life then pal, you are a man most blessed. Merrill is a lucky man. (posted by Merrill, comments welcome)

Photos: Merrill feelin' the love from his girls. And Christine sportin' her stilettos (a gift from M&M) proving that girls from Tryon don't take a back seat to the gals of "Sex and the City"

SKYY high

2008-09-21T14:03:00.000-07:00

I was in the liquor store yesterday, with my sister Barb, topping up my stash of vodka. We were checking out. I think everyone thought Barb was my wife. I looked at the cashier's nametag then said to her,

"Arlene. Is it stuck on, or is it all the way through?"

"What?" she replied.

"Your little diamond nose stud." I said.

"Oh, no," she said, smiling, "it's pierced all the way through."

"It's very pretty," I told her.

There was a moment of awkward silence as she put our bottles into paper bags, then gave us our change. But I could tell she was about to say something. She smiled.

"I don't think I should probably show you my belly ring." she said.

Okay now at this point I'm smiling too. She's a live one. So I leaned way over the counter to get my face closer to hers and whispered very loudly so everyone could hear, "Let's wait 'til next time darlin', when she's not with me." Barb and I exited the store and headed for the parking lot.

It was a SKYY high moment.

When I recounted the episode to everyone in the car, including my Mom, I told them the cashier was about 19 years old – just to make the story juicier.

So Barb says, from the back seat, "Oh for heaven's sake Merrill, she was in her fifties. You're gonna get yourself in trouble one of these days."

I can only hope.

If you're gonna tell a story, tell it all the way through. -posted by Merrill (comments welcome)

PHOTO by Martha, who now fancies herself a rival to Annie Liebowitz.

An indoor pool. How crazy.

2008-08-31T22:03:00.000-07:00

Many questioned the wisdom of building an addition onto our barn and installing an indoor pool...

...look at this photograph people: I'm a genius! - posted by Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: Our nephew Lowell and his sons Ryan and Jacob go, well, just nuts, in the indoor pool at Wyndham House. Fun? You betcha!

Summer! Is it overkill to say I adore it?

2008-08-31T21:33:00.000-07:00

Here they are: Cole (grandson) with his new friend (my nephew's son Jasper) and Martha's daughter Mary -- also known as my step-daughter Mary (who considers me chopped liver, for the record). But guess what, they're all having fun at our picnic/beach day at Cabot Beach in PEI.

Summer. It's worth waiting all winter for. And one of the lovely moments was watching Cole and Jasper become, well, just buddies! - posted by Merrill (comments welcome)

A split second...

2008-07-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a split second makes the wait worthwhile...look at this moment: my grandson Jack being thrown into the wet horizon (on a beautiful warm July afternoon) by my nephew Stuart...what a wet and wild moment...it was worth waiting all winter for, this magic moment. Go Jack. Go Stuart. -Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: This beach (near Morrell, PEI) is pure magic. The place where Bill and Harriet shared summer magic with their grandchildren. All grandparents should be so lucky!

Pushing 90

2008-07-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

Look at her. In her 89th year. Harriet. Mom. And here's what she said to me yesterday..."When people ask me how I am, I'm going to tell them: I'm better than I was yesterday but not as good as I will be tomorrow." Hey, it might not be original but she meant it and that's good enough for me. A month ago she was in the hospital after a bout of pancreatitis. Look at her now. The woman's got guts! -Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: Harriet with her great-grandson Jack, in the woods near her home, where she walks about 3 times a week. )

Let's Talk Dirty

2008-07-13T17:21:00.000-07:00

Okay, the photo may seem a bit risqué but, well, hello, it's just me and Kaz (my super-fit daughter-in-law) posing for a shot that advertises my new diversion: it's called "Let's Talk Dirty" You see, for years I've been talkin' sexy talk, basically for free...so I decided to work up a routine in which I can talk dirty and get paid for it. Voila: "Let's Talk Dirty" I'm available ($220/hour) for private parties and stagettes (female version of a stag party) and hey, I will actually get paid for it. The dress rehearsal (and focus group of 15 "open-minded women") was last night and it went...well, okay. Lots of laughs but the gals in attendance (and Martha) told me lots of things I can do to improve (story of my life!)
As part-time jobs go...it's better than being a greeter at Wal-Mart! - Merrill

PS Re: the photo. Martha was the art director but I was the photographer. We used a mirror and I took the shot. Not bad if I do say so myself.

How happy am I?

2008-06-14T21:22:00.000-07:00

How happy am I? Well, I looked at the clock yesterday, and I swear to God, the second hand was going backwards!! Now that's happy! -Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: Yes, we're consuming a bit too much alcohol. But, look at the photo, is the pool half-full or half-empty...half-full my darlin's. And the photo shows me waiting for it to be totally full!! Bring it on. And, oh, by the way, isn't Martha becoming quite the little photographer? She's amazing!

My new favourite shirt!

2008-06-13T20:23:00.000-07:00

The shirt cost me $3.99, but I've been looking for it for 20 years and it's now my fave! But Martha and I can't agree: is it better with the traditional cowboy hat, with black jeans...or is it way cooler with white pants and the contemporary "Brad Pitt" hat? Cast your vote to our email address. Do we have way too much time on our hands...oh, my goodness YES! That, my friends...was the PLAN! Yowza! -Merrill (comments, and emails welcome)

Photo: Martha has captured her favourite lunatic modelling his new shirt -- purchased at a local thrift store. If you can manage to have this much fun for $3.99 you HAVE ARRIVED! Welcome to retirement Nirvana.

"Martha! Zoom in. For cryin' out loud!"

2008-06-12T22:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is not the shot I was looking for. Martha was supposed to photograph only the shadow on the wall (interesting eh?) but this is what we got...a cover shot of a pathetic old bald guy in sleep pants and T-shirt! Alas, life is what it is and, well, it was a fun photo session. Martha is fast becoming my favorite photographer...because her subject is, well, me. Her images are even more interesting when her subject is naked -- no, we ain't sharin'. -Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: Shadows on the wall...keep your eyes open for them. Often they're more interesting than the real thing.

Ouch! But it was fun!

2008-06-11T20:05:00.000-07:00

You might recall me mentioning our next-door-neighbor and beloved friend Susan [who we worship] (who also just happened to beat the odds last year on a lung cancer diagnosis).

Anyway, shown here is the mess she made of her Dodge Durango when she "dodged" certain death on Hwy 62 yesterday.

I felt ill to my stomach just looking at the car, and thinking of what COULD have happened. The other car was totalled.

Susan is in great shape (she works out religiously) and her reflexes are quick so she managed to almost avoid the other car (who stupidly pulled out right in front of her).

Anyway I asked her, "Oh my God, are you okay?" To which she replied, "Yeah, actually, it was kind of fun!"

Okay, remember me saying that Susan had this amazingly positive spirit and a positive way of looking at things? Well...I rest my case! -Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: I think we all should aspire to looking at something like this and thinking, "It was kinda fun!" Perfect that talent and the rest of your life will be a fun ride!

Cheers! To Jesse.

2008-06-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

It was one wacky wake. Jesse Bolling was a real character. He was 72-years-of-age, had a zillion girfriends and lived life to the fullest -- and I guess it could be argued that he lived a little too much! Jesse died from injuries sustained in a car accident...he had stolen his son-in-law's car (that's Mike, his son-in-law, in the picture) and was driving (under the influence) from "The Virginian" (a local bar, his hangout and the venue for his wake) to another bar in town (to meet some more of his girfriends) when he was T-boned by another car. Well, Jesse never recovered, and died from his injuries about 2 weeks following the accident.

What are the lessons learned here? There are none really, I guess, except that we're all headed for the same place, and well, let's just smile and laugh a lot along the way.

Mike has worked for us tirelessly for the past season (he's perhaps the hardest working man I have ever met) and has helped us get a lot accomplished. His wife Marge (shown here alongside Martha) has her own issues and problems: Marge fights the demon alcohol, probably has post-polio syndrome, probably suffers from sleep apnea, and probably will never recover fully from the insults inflicted on her by "a hard life". Are we glad we met these two? You betcha. Are they gonna need all the help they can get in sorting things out? Yup.

Bottom line: Martha and Merrill are still the luckiest people alive.

Here's to you Jesse! Fifty people showed up at your favorite bar to say good-bye. To say, "We miss you man!"

(posted by Merrill, comments welcome)

Photo: Mike , Marge, Martha, Merrill -- at "The Virginian", Jesse's hangout!

Sex. It's all in your head pal.

2008-05-27T20:19:00.000-07:00

Go tantric. A message to all my guy friends out there: forget Viagra, the secret lies in a happy life, and shooting in the 90's of course. And, oh, despite what the medical disclaimers might say, having an erection that lasts more than four hours is not necessarily a bad thing! -Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: Merrill doin' his thing at the Death Valley Golf Course, on May 19th. On that day the hottest spot in North America was, yup, Death Valley....118 degrees Farenheit (bring it on). You'll note I am holding my balls in my hand and dreaming of new distances I can reach with my driver.

There's a snake in my boot!

2008-05-14T21:16:00.001-07:00

Okay, well maybe not in my boot but there's a snake in my pool drain. I was pressure-washing the walls of our swimming pool today (in preparation for it's bi-annual paint job) and found this interesting little guy (about 36 cm long) hiding in the drain.

Have you ever seen a little Chihuahua puppy barking it's head off trying to be scary? Well this little snake made all the "Indiana Jones" moves imaginable - in an effort to scare the sh*t out of us!

It lunged.

It jumped.

It bit the broom handle.

It flicked it's little tongue.

This snake had spirit!

Anway, we coaxed him/her into a bucket and relocated him/her over the fence -- after which he/she promptly crept back onto the property to flick his/her little tongue at us a few more times just to make sure we knew who was boss!

The last we saw of him/her was under the oleander bush...and I'm sure, alas, we will probably meet again. Gotta love the desert.

And oh, just in case you're wondering, yes, give me a snake any day over those f***ing mosquitoes who flick their little tongues under my skin and suck my blood...now that's creepy!! - Merrill (comments welcome)

Video: Not sure what kind of snake this is. If you have any idea, please let me know.

The kid's got a gift!

2008-05-07T22:21:00.000-07:00

Here's my prediction: the kid will be a VERY good golfer. I know, I know, I know...his left arm is not straight and his left heel is off the grass but, I was there, I saw the whole deal and well, it was pretty sweet. He's got a natural gift. During his 40 minutes on the driving range I said absolutely nothing to him, I practically ignored him, and well...when it was all over he said to me, "Merrill, I think I need to use the long tees, it works better when I set the ball high with my driver." Yikes! It took me two years to figure that out. The kid's got a gift! -Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: Cole whacking away at the balls (without any instruction or direction from Merrill) at the Little Course in Franklin, Tennessee. And he did just fine! And hey, the kid does look good in a hat don't ya think?

Safe! Cole steals home.

2008-05-07T21:40:00.000-07:00

I never played little league ball so this is all new to me: watching our grandson Cole play is loads of fun, especially when he scores a run for his team(see photo) on a close call. The scoreboard tells the story. His team, the Dodgers, got clobbered, but the important thing was...he was IN THE GAME, giving it his best shot. I hope he can keep that going for the rest of his life! Play hard my man! Win or lose, it's all about having fun! Go Cole! -Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: Cole steals home but alas, his team -- the Dodgers -- lost the game. But Nana and Merrill are still his biggest fans...go Cole, go Cole, go Cole!!

No. No. No. Not a bunion!

2008-04-22T21:54:00.000-07:00

My foot has been killing me for the past few weeks. I thought this was a result of me dropping a wheelbarrow full of gravel on it...let me tell you that really, really hurts. Anyway, the pain did not go away over time so I had X-rays taken, had 2 consultations with orthopaedic surgeons and...wait for it...well, today -- give me a moment to compose myself -- Dr Parker in Palms Springs looked up at me with his eyes peering over by big toe, and said, "Congratulations, you have a bunion!"

Crap! Crap! Crap. Doctor, tell me I have a torn ligament. Tell me I have tendonitis. Tell me I have a broken bone but DON'T tell me I have a bunion. Why? Well....that's for chicks! It's a woman's thing. Have you ever heard of a GUY having a bunion? You may as well have told me I have an ovarian cyst! Chri-i-i-i-i-iky!

Well it turns out that lots of guys have bunions but, well, I didn't want the first surgery of my life to be bunion surgery. But HEY!!! Here's the good part -- isn't there always a silver lining? -- Martha has had four bunion surgeries so, well, it's familiar territory and now SHE gets to look after ME during my recovery! Which will probably be sometime in the fall of this year in PEI.

These old bodies continue to break down but when all is said and done, Martha and I are still are the luckiest people alive: I came home from my doctor's appointment, I told her about the diagnosis, we had a martini in the pool, we watched a funny movie and went to bed early. Bunion, shmunion. Big deal. The sun is still shining here in California and tomorrow will be another another great day. -Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: Actually Martha and I had already half-guessed that it was a bunion thing, after doing some Internet research and some poking of my foot. Never underestimate the importance of web-based research when it comes to your owm health issues...it's a geat resource!. Use it!

Beware the desert's terrible beauty.

2008-04-06T20:12:00.000-07:00

Oh my freakin' lord. We took the 4-wheel-drive vehicle out to the desert today and saw lots of great animals (see Mr Chuckwalla) but we also took a wrong turn and got ourselves onto a rugged mountain trail that made Raiders of the Lost Ark look like a Sunday School picnic. Let me put it this way, if I didn't have 30 years experience driving in the snow we would probably not have made it back!

It was shit-your-pants scary but also exhilirating because, well, we survived. Let me quote Martha: "Oh my god, oh god, oh my god we're gonna die."...which prompted me to stop the vehicle and say to her: "Martha, I'm nervous too, but that isn't helping, so let's just drink some water, chill a bit, and I promise I'll get us out of here alive." Which I did.

It was, well, yes...fun. We saw two endangered desert tortoises, chuckwallas galore and a great-looking snake. Now that's a fun way to spend Sunday morning! -Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: This chuckwalla is shedding his skin after winter hibernation. He was a bit grouchy but tolerated us and allowed us to take his picture.

Three amigos.

2008-04-01T21:51:00.000-07:00

Thumbs up to fun. Look at these three. Let's review who they are: Martha was born in Kokomo, Indiana. Lynda and Liz were born in Prince Edward Island...and yet here they are in 2008 in the California sunshine -- having the time of their lives (best buddies, smiles all around) in our pool in the desert. Who could have guessed that their lives would have ever connected...that their paths ever would have crossed. Some would say that this is proof that God exists. I would say rather it's all about the (good) choices we make. Seeing them smile just makes me want to smile too! And if you're part of the human race, you probably feel the same. Go ahead. Smile, and feel good!! Living. Sharing. Smiling. It's all good! These gals are friends. They're having fun. -Merrill (comments welcome)

Photo: Lynda and Liz experience the wonder of a heated pool on April Fool's Day, 2008. Wintry Prince Edward Island seems far, far away.

GOOD. Friday. 2008

2008-03-22T01:07:00.000-07:00

It happened on Good Friday, at about 3:30pm. I was in the parking lot of the local Circle-K convenience store/gas station. I was waiting for Mike, my painter, to return with the pack of cigarettes he seemed to need. Anyway, while I was waiting I spied an SUV (next to me) with a man and a little kid (obviously his son) who were buying some firewood -- apparently for their weekend camping trip in Joshua Tree National Park.

I couldn't help myself: "So are you going camping in the Park this weekend? Look at those mountains." as I pointed to the mountains in the distance , "I wish I was so lucky. I wish I was going camping in the Park this weekend."

The guy responded, "Well, you're welcome to come along if you know how to cook on a campfire!" Okay, that was actually quite funny. "Hey," I said, "I think you'll do just fine. Have a great weekend!"

And I meant it. Easter weekend. This kid and his dad have been looking forward to this weekend all year. And here they are on the cusp of one of the most memorable weekends of their lives. And here am I...a witness to it all. And guess what -- when they've done their thing and are headed back to Los Angeles on Tuesday morning, I can grab a cup of coffee, head up to the Park and sit for a few hours in quiet solitude, just contemplating this amazing place -- who's the lucky guy here??? I am definitely seeking to re-define Good Friday. -Merrill [comments welcome]

(Photo: Merrill and Martha's Airstream trailer plays an important role in an afternoon (veggie) weiner roast with friends and family: Joshua Tree National Park, February 2008)

Look at this kid...!!! (and play this video clip)

2008-03-19T00:13:00.000-07:00

Did you ever wonder why people seem to go on and on about their grandchildren? I am a lucky man because I have two (count 'em, two) grandsons, and they make my life totally worth living. Well, take a look at this kid doing air-ukelele in Kaua'i, Hawai'i. Is he having fun? Is he having the time of his life? Is he driving his mother hysterical with laughter? (you can hear her trying not to laugh out loud!). This, my friend, is why grandchildren are the one BONUS of living past the age of 50. Well worth the trip. Jack, you are the man! -Merrill [comments welcome]

Where the heck is she?

2008-03-18T23:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is a contest! If you can guess where Martha is I'll send you a cheque/check for $25! Or, should I say, I'll send the money to the person who comes the closest! Here's a hint: the following day she lost one of these acrylic canes (she slipped, and it went splashing into the Pacific Ocean) when she was walking down the ramp to the glass-bottom-boat tour! Anyway, we had a fun, fun, fun weekend with our friends Norm and Susan (who also happen to be our next-door-neighbors here in Twentynine Palms). Another hint: "gotta love California." Another hint: why is it that we seem to be drawn to islands??? Send your answers to weale@ca.inter.net and contest deadline is April 23, 2008. This little airport was famous. And oh, by the way, doesn't she look great? She's my favourite redhead!! -Merrill

(Hey: The contest has been won by my world-famous cousin Bob Jones who guessed Catalina Island. Well done you crafty sleuth! The acrylic cane is still missing!)

No more frozen knuckles!

2007-12-15T16:47:00.000-08:00

The first two decades of our marriage were highlighted with the annual discussion about putting up the exterior Christmas lights -- the discussion was rarely pleasant! Sorry, but chicks just don't get it. They've never experienced the frozen knuckles that accompany the task (high atop a wobbly ladder)...when hammer hits bare skin after bouncing off frozen rain gutter....shi-i-i-i-i-yikes! So imagine how wondrous it is to put up Christmas lights on a sunny (warm!) afternoon, where the only ice involved is the ice on the outside of my chilled martini glass...raised in a festive cheer when the job is complete! How I love California! Happy, happy holidays! -Merrill

Photo: The twinkling lights go up: reflected in the window of our holiday "spare bedroom"...the Toaster, our Airstream trailer!

If you can't stand the heat...

2007-12-04T21:37:00.001-08:00

This photo was taken in the kitchen of The Tower Restaurant at the Paris Casino in Las Vegas. Cousins Usha and Emrys Rees (who we love and adore) had just been treated to an orgasmic meal of French cuisine, what a delight!

But, AFTER the picture was taken we hustled ourselves into the elevator, where we were accompanied by three other tourists in Vegas -- three young ladies (ages about 25-30) from England. The cute little wee one looked up at me (in my cowboy hat) and said, "Are you a real cowboy?"

To which I answered, "Oh yeah, darlin' I'm the real thang! You oughta see my horse!"

Then one of her companions said, "She's been looking for a cowboy ever since we arrived in Las Vegas!"

So I put my arms around Martha and said to the sweet young thing, "I'm sorry sweetheart, you arrived a little too late. I already have my cowgirl."

But you know in my heart I was thinking what every red-blooded male would be thinking: "Martha, I love you. But right at this very moment I wish you were a thousand miles away."

What happens in Vegas...is all nonsense. What happens when you return to your hotel room with your wife...now you've hit the jackpot! -Merrill

(Photo: The meal cost a fortune but it was worth every penny. When the spoonful of creme brule hit my mouth, I wanted to die in ecstacy right there and then! And I don't even like creme brule!)

Fore! Play, on the third Sunday of November.

2007-11-18T21:04:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's cheating a bit. She didn't really play 9 holes...in fact she just drives the cart and keeps score but hey, she's out there on the golf course, and it's November! We LOVE California. She also is putting on a smiley face just for me because I know in her heart she's thinking, "Take the picture Merrill, we've played the 9 holes, let's go because I'd rather be home wrapping Christmas presents for our grandkids."...which we did later! Among other things. So you see, we both got what we wanted, now THAT'S the way to spend a Sunday in November. -Merrill

(Photo: Martha's first round of golf after hip surgery...six weeks to the day!)

It ain't the Jordan River...

2007-11-18T20:24:00.000-08:00

Okay, it's just a swimming pool. But for Merrill and Martha it's like the freakin' Jordan River. Because in these miraculous waters Martha can move her legs -- those unfortunate appendages that were stricken by post-polio syndrome. In this pool, and the weightless environment it provides, is the daily tonic she needs to keep those legs moving, especially now that she has no pain after the hip replacement. So, people, is it any wonder we're toasting the event with a martini! Martha has survived the surgery, and gone on to recover in the newness of life. It's the baptism of: "I'm back, bring it on!" She's back in the pool! Yay! -Merrill

(Photo: By Bradley McLean, neighbour and dearest friend, who spoke those magical words..."Let me get my camera.")

By any other name.

2007-11-04T19:54:00.000-08:00

We stopped at a yard sale today. It was one of those yards sales where the junk has been in the yard for, well, years. Everything was covered in dust. You don't really want to touch anything, but you want to stop to take a look just in case. Martha waited for me in the car. Now that she can't walk any distances Martha sends me in to scout the territory, especially when the pickin's are iffy. What a wasteland, I was thinking! Get me out of here!

The yard was still and quiet as I surveyed the piles of "stuff". I almost missed her at first: a little old lady sitting amid the rubble. She wore a wool hat and a fuzzy old sweater. I poked around long enough to be polite, and even found a couple of items to buy. As I was paying for them, Martha called out from the car, "What lovely roses!"

There in the middle of everything was an ancient rose bush, with a few struggling blooms and buds. The little old lady looked at me and said, "Would you like to take those scissors and cut her a rose?"

She helped me cut the stem at just the right place -- and the gift was given. And a lesson learned. -Merrill

(Photo: The Monte Vista Avenue rose. A special gift received on Sunday, November 4th.)

Define Scary!

2007-11-03T21:46:00.000-07:00

Let's face it...it's just two old retired geezers dressed up in Wal-Mart Hallowe'en garb, although it's rather tastefully done don't you agree? Especially Martha's lace panties. Hardly scary. But in another part of our world -- Pakistan to be exact -- President Pervez Musharraf has just declared emergency rule. Now that's frightening! -Merrill

Oh-h-h-h-h-h-klahoma!

2007-11-02T22:44:00.000-07:00

[Overheard in a conversation in southeast Oklahoma. A conversation between a tourist and a local woman who had just been asked about some local flowers growing nearby:]

"Those are beautiful yellow flowers, what are they?" said the tourist.
"Wildflowers," replied the local woman.
"Oh, what kind of wildflowers?" asked the curious tourist.
"Yellow wildflowers," came the reply.
"Oh."

[Photo: Martha and her sister-in-law Leona, who flew all the way to Oklahoma to lovingly prepare 3 meals a day for Martha after her hip surgery, because, well, after major surgery, having 3 yummy home-cooked meals a day -- served on a deck overlooking beautiful rural Oklahoma -- is a sure-fire recipe for "get well soon"!]

Half Empty? Half Full?

2007-10-29T18:39:00.000-07:00

There are two ways to look at it: being hospitalized on your birthday might seem like a bad thing but (1) hey, you're likely to get a free cake (albeit baked in the hospital kitchen) and (2) if you're recovering in the hospital after hip surgery you're still breathing aren't you -- always a good thing on your birthday. And, as a bonus, you just might meet someone extraordinarily special like Bibi, a Venezuelan firecracker of a nurse who looked after Martha and became, well, a friend. Now that's a birthday! -Merrill

(Photo: McBride Orthopedic Clinic, Oklahoma City. Martha and Bibi doing the birthday thing, minutes before Bibi sang to her the Venezuelan Birthday Song, the longest and most beautiful birthday song the world! Everybody cried!)

Back in Toronto!

2007-08-28T18:03:00.000-07:00

"Thump, thump, thump went the city!" We found ourselves back in Toronto in August for Brad's wedding (to cute-as-a-button Brigid) and found oursleves enjoying the dull roar and hum of metropolitan life -- not to mention the mind-blowing cultural diversity that is Toronto! Bonus: the house where we were staying was a few blocks from "Taste of the Danforth" a Greek culinary extravaganza (attended by 1.5 million people) which we had never savoured in all the years we lived here. But better late than never. We felt alive. We felt energized. - M&M

(Photo: Two old geezers from Prince Edward Island enjoying the delights of "Taste of the Danforth" in Toronto.)

It's a big tall house...

2007-08-27T16:57:00.000-07:00

Sorry...I keep returning to this theme but today was one of the best days of my life. The sun was shining and I sucessfully painted the highest peak of Wyndham House (our home in PEI). Our friend Caitlin came over to help Martha with the housework. My sister Leona brought over some homemade biscuits for lunch. We spent time in the pool -- watching the newly-installed TV. We had a nice glass of wine before bedtime. Nobody got injured. Did I mention the sun was shining and that the temperatures were perfect for a wondrous Prince Edward Island summer day? How can it get any better than this? - Merrill

(Photo: Martha's photo shows Merrill doing a death-defying paint job -- with a tip of the hat to the Flying Wallendas. Please note, ladies and gentlemen, there is no safety net!)

Her little boy

2007-07-23T18:47:00.000-07:00

Wow! Lookit these two. Taking a boat ride around Bowen Island off Vancouver. Are they cute or what? And is she proud of him? You betcha. He (Johnny, her baby boy) owns the best restaurant on Bowen Island[www.thegalleybistro.com] where she (Martha) gets free martinis. How great is that? Life takes some funny twists doesn't it? Bring it on.

Unicorn Blood

2007-07-06T04:37:00.001-07:00

Our grandson Jack is staying with us in PEI for two weeks while his parents are having their own summer adventure in China. Jack and I were washing our hands after 9 holes of golf when some liquid soap spilled on the sink. "Hey," he said, "It looks like Unicorn blood."

The scary part is that I know what he was talking about.* We've been watching a lot of movies at night -- in the station wagon. Yes, we're sleeping in the car. He thinks it's more fun than a tent. Who am I to argue? I'm just the kid's grandfather, I gladly do what I'm asked! And on we go! -Merrill

*Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, the scene where Hagrid, Harry, Hermione and Ron are in the Forbidden Forest.

"The train to Union Station has been delayed..."

2007-06-08T22:02:00.000-07:00

"How sweet it is to see her at the wheel of a golf cart on a sun-kissed morning in Lake Havasu City, Arizona at 7 a.m. -- recalling the hundreds (and hundreds) of days she spent trudging up the stairs at the Kipling GO Station (at 7 a.m.), stomping the slush off her boots, knowing it would be dark once again that evening when the train finally pulled into Kipling Station on the return journey, at the end of the day -- just in time for her to walk the three blocks home on icy, snow filled streets...okay, enough! Let's just luxuriate in this moment: no deadlines, no early morning meetings...the biggest Human Resources decison Martha needs to make this morning is whether or not it's a good idea to let her husband know that, maybe he should have used his pitching wedge instead of his 9-iron.

By the way did I mention I adore her." -Merrill

The Liquid of Life

2007-06-08T20:44:00.000-07:00

Sweat, not water, or semen, or amniotic fluid, is the liquid of life! - Merrill, June 2007

(Photo: Merrill demonstrates that even in the middle of the Mojave Desert, the leaf blower is an essential part of life...and oh, by the way, anyone who speaks ill of the leaf blower....has never used one!)

Such a Typical Male

2007-04-29T19:14:00.000-07:00

"I spent the day with our grandson Cole (age 8, soon to be 9)...mostly on the golf course, the rest of the day shopping and working on his throw to first base.

Anyway, on our way to the golf course, I said, "Hey, remember that hole-in-one I got last summer in Prince Edward Island when we were golfing with your cousin Jack?"

So he replies -- in a manner that reflects the way all of us guys think, but later in life work to cover up politely-- "Yeah, well it barely went in."

I'm happy to report that today I beat him...by two strokes! Take that, Mister "Barely Went In" - Merrill

Up in flames!

2007-04-22T21:05:00.000-07:00

"Don't hesitate to burn your bridges behind you. If you're doing things right, the place where you are is probably better than where you were anyway. And besides, you can always swim back -- it's good exercise." M&M

(Photo: "Merrill takes a hands-on approach to photography in Chennai, South India"

Don't leave it too late

2007-04-22T20:29:00.000-07:00

"I'm trying (hard) to work on developing a sex addiction -- but Martha thinks I may have left it a bit too late." -Merrill

(Photo: Martha contemplates her options at The Horizon Hotel (her favorite) in Palm Springs. Sex followed.)

Half empty? Half full?

2007-04-16T22:02:00.000-07:00

"Half the battle is knowing you've got a good thing." -Martha

(Photo: Snow! In Twentynine Palms! Bring it on!)

2007-04-16T21:33:00.000-07:00

Overheard in a recent conversation about religion: "It's not a matter of whether your myth is bigger or better than my myth... let's face it, neither one of us thinks our myth is a myth!"

(Photo: Hearts connect at Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, South India)

Susan wins the lottery!!!

2007-04-11T21:09:00.000-07:00

Did you ever wonder what it's like to be with someone when they just found out they've won the multi-million dollar lottery? Let me tell you what it's like: our friend Susan (our neighbour in Twentynine Palms, shown here with Martha and husband Norm) called us two days after Easter. She was calling from the hospital where she had undergone surgery in which they removed part of her lung after a diagnosis of cancer.

She said, "Come to the hospital at 11 o'clock. I'm going home! And the results of the biopsy show no more signs of cancer!"

Now there's a woman who just won the freakin' lottery of life! She said that when she finally was discharged and the sunshine hit her face and the smells of the desert air filled her lungs, "I felt like a flower that was opening up," she said, "I cried."

And with good reason. Thanks to good old western medicine, a brilliant surgeon, and her incredible positive spirit --unlike anything we had ever seen before -- her possible death sentence had been lifted. You go girl! Go spend your winnings!

Easter '07 in Palm Springs: reflections on retirement

2007-04-11T20:40:00.000-07:00

"Retirement: it's kind of like that feeling you used to get at the end of August when you had to go back to school and wished you could start the summer all over again. Well when you're retired -- you can!" -Merrill

(Photo: Martha with Brad & Brigid at Horizon Hotel, Palm Springs)

Ode to older women

2007-03-29T22:00:00.000-07:00

Our grandson Jack [age 8] was visiting us last week, on his March Break.

We were also expecting a visit from Graham and Carol -- business associates from Toronto -- with their three daughters [ages 10, 12 and 15] . Jack was looking forward to meeting them and said, "You know me Merrill, I like older women."

Then he asked me, "Which of the girls is the prettiest?"

"Well Jack," I said, "They are actually all beautiful, each in their own way."

He paused. A lengthy pause. Then replied, "I hope they remembered to bring their bathing suits."

Don't save your life -- spend it!

2007-03-26T21:48:00.000-07:00

"If you're thinking about saving your life, don't SAVE it -- spend it...now!"

-Merrill

No, we're fine...seriously!

2007-03-26T21:34:00.000-07:00

"Please don't worry that we seem to have totally lost touch with reality: we've worked hard to get here and we're loving it. "

-M&M

(Photo: A playful elevator moment, Caesar's Palace, Las Vegas. Sex followed.)

"Ya gotta love Hawaii"

2007-03-18T13:57:00.000-07:00

"Addict yourself to adrenalin -- while you still can."

- Merrill

(Photo: Lumaha'i Beach, where Mitzi Gaynor said she was going to "wash that man right out of my hair" in South Pacific)

The Queen of Kauai

2007-03-18T09:23:00.000-07:00

Martha...feeling no pain in Hawaii - with Kauai's Napali coast in the distance. We did a sunset dinner cruise on March 5 to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. Sweet!

2007-02-11T20:51:00.000-08:00

"Death: half the fun is getting there."
-Merrill

The Best Day of My Life

2007-02-11T08:47:00.000-08:00

"How's your day going?" the cashier at the hardware store asked me yesterday.

"Well," I replied. "I guess this could be one of the best days of my life."

"Wow, something really great must have happened!"

"No, not really. I'm just buying some stuff, the sun is shining, the car's working great, I don't have a lot to do today, I had a nice breakfast, I'll be taking a dip in the pool this afternoon. It's the kind of day I've been working my whole life for, so I think this actually qualifies as one of the best days of my life."

"Hey I never thought about it like that before." she said. "That's a good way of looking at it."

"Yup."