Musing

My sister was down in Mississippi visiting her fiancée and she was supposed to come home yesterday but she managed to get home on Sunday. Thank heavens !! Her fiancée, Ron is still down there with his two dogs. I just called her this morning to see if she has heard from Ron. Unfortunately she hasn't but last night she did get a call from one of his neighbours to say that Ron is alright. She also found out that one of Ron's other neighbours lost their house and it was three blocks away from him , so she is concerned that Ron has lost his. What is going on in this world ? Someone is sure testing us !, CC

. . .
New Orleans is gone...it is the Pompeii of 21st century America. Mother Nature just took the Mississippi delta back from our species. "Rebuilding should not be about rebuilding the city. It is time to accept that reality and move on...to higher ground - figuratively and literally., KC

. . .
Perhaps it just makes more sense to just offer sympathy, empathy, hope, understanding, and make donations to the Red Cross for those affected by Hurricane Katrina instead worrying about the locations that people choose to live.

. . .

I am requesting to be 'unsubscribed'...I just get way too many emails and don't get around to reading this. thanks though! Warmly, ML

. . .
Mark: It was interesting to talk with you this morning: cell phone to cell phone. As I said in our conversation - reading your Musing blog every morning when I arrive at work "is a lot like a really good cup of coffee". Later today I received an interesting Wisdom List from a very old friend from P.E.I., which I will share:1. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.2. Marry a man/woman who you love to talk to. As you get older, the conversation skills are so important.3. Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have, or sleep all you want.4. When you say, "I love you", mean it.5. Never laugh at anyone's dream. People who don't have dreams don't have much.6. Don't judge people by their relatives.7. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, "Why do you want to know?"8. Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.9. When you lose, don't lose the lesson.10.Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.11.When you say, "I'm sorry", look the person in the eyes.12.Smile when you answer the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice.K.E.

6C, clear . . a fireball had just cleared the horizon, not a cloud in sight . . deer feeding as we entered the park noticed, then went on munching

I believe there are a few folks on the musing list from New Orleans . . or with friends & family in that area . . . hopefully all are well

I wonder, as ‘big moments in time’ pass – whether anticipated milestone date [our centennial tomorrow] or the big event [hurricane Katrina] that comes with little warning, do we understand anything better ? ‘instant’ reach global news informs us . . but most of the world do not, cannot , will not rush to provide help . . . instead we are voyeurs of a spectacle

hard not to be struck by the devastation & extraordinary rescue stories as the media deluge of CNN et al blows all matter of things out of proportion

I have no harsh feelings for dead, the lost, the dispossessed . . . but one wonders about an old city that chooses to live below sea level while knowing they could not hope to cope when the sea comes inland; perhaps in the decades to come that storied city could rebuild like a new Venice . . building up in recognition it is a city that must live with water in the streets

or maybe it is like our river valley . . so much built on the 100 year flood plane by people who surely believe the ‘big one’ will not come in our life time

I wonder if we learn much from history ? if so, why had New Orleans not built itself UPWARD like a modern Venice in anticipation ? . . .

what do we learn today ? we know so much more & know it more quickly, but does anyone learn ?

I wonder if society really copes better today, notwithstanding our technology & knowledge, any better than it did 100 years ago when self reliance was required of everyone, when hope of help from others far away was unlikely, when anyone elsewhere knowing or caring was unlikely

I wonder

Mark

342,740

Hi Mark, Back from my holiday in South West France, tanned and relaxed. We stayed ona donkey sanctuary in a remote corner of the Lot et Garonne district. See www.neddi.com/holidays to get the picture. I was worried my son would be bored to death but he loved it and we had some real quality time together. Beautiful night skies and a deafening chorus of crickets and cicadas, terrific food at a really affordable price, unspoiled medieval villages.Almost perfection. Just no lover to share it with. Am I asking too much? Still lovely summer weather back in England. How can you put up with such a brief summer in Calgary? love from Shelagh xxx, SK

. . .
If 4,500 people read "musings" daily, perhaps you could act as Matchmaker and find me a single, 40 something, outdoorsy man with a good sense of humour., LD

summer’s end is not far away - autumnal nip in the air, 6C air is a chilly change that felt great as wonder-pup & I roam around the lagoon . . . still there, a mirror catching sunrise reflected off windows reflected off pond

I told a customer something he did not want to hear yesterday – maybe that will end things, or maybe it will set a new tone . . . not sure; I’d hate to lose that business but on the other hand, I’d probably lose more if I took it on as he wants me to . . hmm I’m reminded of two quotes:

‘If you play with skunks, you get stinky.’ – unknown

‘If you don’t run your own life, somebody else will.’ – John Atkinson

great fun writing yesterday & evening . . .then drafting fatigue produced a short but sound sleep last night interrupted only by a chorus of coyotes howling . . . or was that a dream about howling coyotes ?

meeting filled day punctuated with more drafting & redrafting awaits . . gotta run to first meeting

Mark

342,764

If its possible to remove me for the month of Sept. I am traveling with limited internet access. Thanks so much., AH

. . .
I seem to be on two of your lists - List 1 and List 8. So please delete my name from one (not both - I want to stay connected!) of those lists. Thanks., BM

. . .
Hi Mark wow you were very disappointed in Claresholm and everything about it..yikes, LL

. . .
Mark - Sunday mornings....couldn't agree with you more. I find this to be the most special time to share with a significant other (and I do...) Took a leisurely drive to the foothills to spend the morning at an outdoor art show. Stopped at a creek side log restaurant to have a 2 hour breakfast casually discussing whatever came to mind. Sleeping in and dipping toast in molten egg yolks is definitely equally satisfying! VBL

predictions of thunderstorms later, skies getting hazy but no storm clouds in sight; 10C; we walked aimlessly – Gusta amused by a pair of Husky pups – I’m less adventurous . . rousing myself from a deep but all to brief sleep following a work filled night following a great afternoon on the golf course – thanks SM for inviting me

I would love to just slither on to a massage table for a massage, that’s what I’m kneading

a week of writing & moving many new things along awaits – but mostly writing an important proposal with the help & input of an awesome team . . . hunkered down . . type-type-type

some mornings inspiration flows easily . . like fresh coffee . . . while on the OTHER days it seems to drip a little more slowly eventually filling a few brain cells with energy, fingers genuflecting, scalp tingling – punctuated with an occasional yawn

more coffee + toast produces more yawning . . . add papers, stir with some TV news about a hurricane, return to papers, more yawning, more coffee

why am I dragging my feet ? - this week I will produce a proposal manuscript as long as my stalled book manuscript; I will edit it, polish it, perfect it, edit it some more & send it for printing

I can get writing, but do I really GET writing ?

time to wash my reading glasses, pour another cuppa joe & get writing

Mark

342,788

If you ever eat in Claresholm again definitely go to Aunt Alma's, the best home cooking., kk

. . .
ah yes.....over easy ............ nothing to do with eggs how are ya?, MW

quiet sprint to park & back through the neighbourhood, gorgeous 15 Calgary morning, uneventful until Gusta met 4 yr old male retriever built like a linebacker; told her she’s too young to date older men !

sometimes I loathe it mildly, sometimes I like it OK, sometimes I embrace it, Sunday morning is the only time I REALLY HATE being single; rushed days it’s all scrambled – but fluids mingle better when I take a little more time; much more fun when not rushed as Sunday affords - more time for over easy - one of man’s great pleasures, dipping toast in molten egg yoke, better shared

to, kk, darling daughter, looking forward to your visit next weekend & a chance to meet your new hunk – not to worry, I’ll not take him aside to ask embarrassing questions . . . then again, that could be fun . . see you soon !

what a treat - sun just gone behind mountains but it still lit the sky as I drove south last evening for coffee & a meal in Claresholm [avoid Roys Diner, the only thing great was the dessert]; while I saw fireworks coming back near Nanton, none found in Claresholm

yesterday was a highly productive writing day – 3 projects on the go – making great progress on the top priority 1 . . the others set aside for the moment; today & tomorrow need to be similarly productive – tempus fugit

pitter-patter, must get at some work . .then off to golf with SM et al

Mark
342,812

we walked all the way down to Fish Creek, inspected ‘our bridge’; finding it still intact we saw several more big trees fallen into the stream; curious to see whether nature or ‘managers’ will determine the future of this area – my vote is ‘leave it where it lands’, 21C, gorgeous day

few things as entertaining as watching a well exercised sleeping pup; Gusta’s mouth twitches & legs peddle in mid-air while dreamy mini-barks leak out . . chasing a ‘dream deer’

my day & mode relaxed, but my plate runneth over & spilleth onto the floor

from the floor, down the hall . . . into the dining room

my project spreads across dining room table & several other pieces of furniture & the kitchen counter which signals an afternoon of document assembly & editing & more editing & more editing

“The secret of being miserable is to have leisure to bother whether you are happy or not. The cure is occupation.” . George Bernard Shaw

by George, I’m cured

golf waits

tomorrow

Mark

342,836

So Mark - how would you categorize our "time served"??? Hugs, AW

. . .
The Mayo Jar --Great story!! WJ

11C, flawless sky in Calgary, glorious sunrise; it was quite a sight, Gusta greeting 2 deer as calmly as many times before - but then she elected to give chase, surprising herself more than both fawns – nothing runs like a deer !

pondering mistakes I’ve made – not just this week – but over time; mistakes in work & play & life & relationships

dumbest things I’ve ever done . . . let mistakes derail me & let great people slip away

smartest things I’ve ever done . . . hang on to the people I’ve made them with & keep on trying

sometimes judges sentence guilty parties to ‘time served’ which might describe some relationships along the way where a moment longer would be too long - we’ve all had our share of those

with some people we meet the ‘time served’ seems, looking back, like just a warm up for the real game yet to come

I’ve been guilty of not trying hard enough to try again with those I’ve lost; to have a chance to work again with, play again with, smile again with, hold hands again with

I know the recent past has been a better experience in that regard; some of my best friends & most interesting collaborators are people I’ve made some of my greatest mistakes with – but we have learned so much, come so far - we are so much better now . . . war wounds & all !

I’ll keep making mistakes, creating flawed plans & do-over opportunities

we’ve made plenty of mistakes but never burned a bridge; yesterday we burned up the Shawnee Slopes course – too bad their was no gallery to witness our spectacular shots – we discussed very little business considering 6 hours of opportunity however it seems we made progress solving a few of the world’s problems . . . thanks heaps Kevin, it was worth every minute spent

arriving home from golf, a call from RS . . . musing on our latest JV project in Toronto – oh, I do like playing in the sandbox with all these smart kids !

To MB: your retirement farewell last night was extraordinary - you were gracious & funny as always. Once you’ve warmed up those new Pings, give me a call . . . I’d love to take a lesson from the world’s greatest sandbagger (kudos to EA, organizer extraordinaire)

I’m warming up for the real game . . .

Mark

342,860

Hi Mark, much as I hate to, could you put me off the list of receivers for the time being, ever since we moved to this new place it's been so hectic that I can't catch up with the reading. I'm going to miss looking inside your head very much. All the best to you and yours, same to all the musers. Regards, MaryRose, MRK

. . .
Hey Mark, What part of the country do you live in? ,RA

. . .
Thanks for joining me for lunch yesterday. I enjoyed myself immensely. You are a very interesting person and I could have chatted with you all afternoon. Let's do it again soon, BC

. . .
Hi Mark, I get lots of "spam" which I rarely pass on, but reading this epitomizes a lot of what is said in musings so I thought I would share it with another 4,499. Kind Regards, DR

The Mayonnaise Jar and the Two Cups of Coffee

When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar .. and the 2 cups of coffee... A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was. The professor then picked up a box of small pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was. The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous "yes." The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed. "Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided, "I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things-your family, your children, your health, your friends, and your favourite passions-things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house, and your car. The sand is everything else-the small stuff. If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued, "there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you. Pay attention to the things thatare critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal. Take care of the golf balls first-the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand." One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the coffee represented. The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend." Please share this with someone you care about. I JUST DID.

dog & owner sprint to the park & back . . . the air is VERY fresh rain stopped, 7C, clearing up to be a great day

a work day with no work planned . . . a day off . . . what a switch

a day off . . . just taking it - KK is taking me golfing

KK is the hardest working smartest guy I know . . by a large margin; that he would take a day off to play is his just reward for countless hours of midnight oil; that he would give up a day of billable hours to play golf with a friend is a substantial investment . . . that he would want to spend it with me is a high honour . .

I was looking for an appropriate quotes to frame thise day . . many would do nicely, but these say it best of all:

"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."- Ferris Bueller

“If A equals success, then the formula is: A = X + Y + Z, X is work. Y is play. Z is keep your mouth shut. “ - Albert Einstein

it seems Ferris & Albert recognized that play is critical !

connecting with friends/musers:
great lunch yesterday . . thanks BC for your hospitality & interest + saw GH on the way out; friends both new & old, it seems, are just around the corner; last night’s Toastmasters meeting was a great turnout on a rainy summer night, my speech rocked - we are still wrestling with the room set up in the new venue; MB’s retirement from REIX farewell this evening . . . I’m gone miss his calm steady hand on the tiller; smart guy, nice guy, take-it-slow guy, humble guy . . . a style to learn much from; KK is warming up on the range . . I think it’s been a year since we whacked the white dimpled ball together . . gotta run !

Mark

342,884

Mark, I just thought that I would drop a line of thanks to you for your writings. I do not get to read all, however I truly find wisdom, thoughtfulness and caring about people and life in your words. Enjoy, AS

. . .

Hi mark..im enjoying your blog..you sound like a kewl guy and a great friend..thks for sharing, LL

7C, raining heavily, windy . . . wonderful; walking, or should I say ‘trying vainly to keep up to’, a romping water dog in the rain is one of the most entertaining outdoor early morning experiences you can imagine . . . more laughter - a call from KT in Istanbul laughing about but not enjoying a combo of telecom & flight connection calamities

my yesterday was highly productive capped by a great sleep . . not sure about today – BC is taking me to lunch, a full writing day & toastmasters this evening

do we see people clearly – or just the brave exterior they present ?

a friend contacted me for help yesterday, someone who has helped me often in countless little ways; . . . not sure I was much help; someone who has been doing so much good for himself & those around him . . someone I am in touch with frequently . . I had no idea he was feeling low . . or that he had reason to

I am wondering about 2 things; 1st, how do I help my friend ?

2nd, do I see only what I want to see, missing what is really there ?

hhmmm !????

a little prescription for you my friend:

just take a walk the rain - or if it’s not raining, walk anyway ‘imagining’ cold drops scooting down your nose & landing on your chin . . breath the air & keep walking . . you are perfectly suited to be you . . . you have the power to do all you have done & more

you are a champion in my mind any day . . rain or shine

Mark

342,908

Often I don't feel I relate to your musings, but today you hit a chord. I have never thought of considering my life in such a way. As the comedian says; 'how come there is a date on your birth certificate - but not on your death certificate', we tend not to think in this manner. By doing so, you have made me realize the increasing value of the time I have left. 424,638. I also liked your thoughts on life as a dress rehearsal. I have always marveled at people who do just that, spend hours and hours of their life practicing for such a 'small' performance. I guess in retrospect, we all do. Thanks for the musings, keep them coming, SB

. . .

Hi Mark greetings from a wild and windy Scottish hillside. Good to be home but so hard leaving tall, handsome sons at Vancouver airport and wondering when will I see them again ? The recent words re loneliness and living alone make me realize that I may be odd being happy in that the curator of my happiness is actually myself. The days when my happiness was dependant on another have long gone and whilst I enjoy the pleasures in all respects of a close friend and companion I value above all else my space and time and place alone. As I walked by a Scottish lochside today I noticed on the same branch a large sprig of bright red berries and below a smaller bunch of raw green berries... kinda signifies our life and stages... are we at the full blown red ripe stage or still at the green, new shoots stage or even past flowering at all ??Hope all readers who live alone find time to count the blessings in their sole existence cos there are many....from a very jet lagged SUZY XX, SF

overcast, cool . . 10C with rain predicted . . cool & damp . . mosquitoes are in hiding [yeah!]; provided jackhammers don’t show up, it should be a good calm writing day – with much to do, much to do over

SS birthday today – I hope it is a gorgeous day for you in Vancouver today . . . but even if it is not, you’ll light up any room you enter

my response to JB’s query about the number at the bottom of each musing: you may notice the # declines by 24 each day; I did a calculation a couple of years ago . . how long I would live X days X hours + leap days etc . . came up with a number of hours I have left if I live to 95 as I predict including 8 leap days in 40 years [that's 192 hours] . . .sort of like grains of sand in the hourglass . . they don't seem so important until they start running out; every day I am reminded not so much of how many hours I have left, but of the steady unrelenting pace at which they are disappearing, a reminder to live each day fully & extract all I can from each 24 hour period that goes rushing by

if I read one more quote about ‘life is not a dress rehearsal’ etc. I’m going to gag; life is all about rehearsal . . we need only look around us; sports teams practice, athletes train, musicians & singers rehearse, actors rehearse & do take after take after take; when then, in relationships with anyone . . . why must we get it right the first time

I didn’t get it right the 1st, 2nd or 3rd time . . . or the 10th or 11th time – learning every time I try, succeeding in small ways every time I fail

I was reminded of this last night . . as I rehearse a speech I have to give; noting to myself that it changes a little with each delivery – not just improving through practice but real change as I try out different ideas, different twists on how to explain an idea or make a point

I’ve been wondering – for each of us – how often do we take a stab at something & move on when it doesn’t work out perfectly the first time; be that in personal relationships, a proposal, a job initiative . . . when a do-over would be in order; how many times could we react to a ‘NO’ with ‘that was just a rehearsal, let me try that again !’

the converse . . the tougher one of course would be tell someone who has struck out – ‘don’t go away, try that again . . . half as long . . try that again with some changes . . try that again with the knowledge of how I reacted to your rehearsal . . ‘

try again . .

Mark

At the end of your musings, you always put numbers after your name. What does this refer to? Have a great day! , JB

. . .
Re: dawn's early light - Good afternoon Mark, I particularly enjoyed this musing.You struck a chord - - -a warm thoughtful chord. Thank you, JJ

a brisk short walk with Gusta; she seems so relieved yesterday’s heat has abated . . 10C & sunny this morning

yesterday was a great day for r&r . . hanging with my dawg & getting my FacilityCalgary issue constructed & sent . . . a long day & evening in heat

the heat made sleep difficult, but my work left me very accepting of sleep

so now begins another Monday - which for many is a rat race, or at least a race in some form; it must be because the furrowed brows as cars race out of the neighbourhood competing for arterial roads, lurching to reach freeway speed . . . they appear so resigned & unhappy

my day began with an email from a collaborator on a project – a minor role player to be sure – arguing we should submit less, do less & try less hard at this particular stage

his reaction to an ‘outline’ that involves miniscule work from him surprised me; not sure of his approach . . is it naiveté, ambivalence or laziness or if he just likes to be a wet blanket on Monday morning . . maybe he left his neighbourhood with a furrowed brow & had a rough drive on his freeway !

‘tis time to launch the efforts of a new week, to move things along, to carry along with last week’s momentum . . to build this week’s

KT leaves for a sailing trip to Turkey + adventuring around Europe . . . just what the Dr. ordered; I’m a tad jealous of tripping around Geneva, Amsterdam, Frankfurt & ancient waters . . . I’ll miss the daily contact but rumour has it reports & photos might find their way to us . .

‘tis time to head out to my series of meetings & errands .. gotta furrow my brow & get out there

Mark

342,956

Sandra here....I am an official Idahoan, since I took put the "Famous Potatoes" license plates on my 4-Runner! Awake, Alone, Aware. It's enough angst to be awake and alone....but the awareness of it, the memory of another sweet time is enough to make me want to cry, sigh, even tend to despair that I will ever find someone to love deeply again. Same boat Mark....My little desk verse of the day says, "Love is like a flower that puts forth a timid bud in spring, then, warmed by the loving kisses of the summer sun, opens to reveal its true glory to the world." Someone who knows us well, who loves all facets, and finds our flaws endearing, encourages us to bloom. Ah....for that I would give anything. A rare find in the vast universe!, SW

. . .
Mark, Feeling your musings off and on about loneliness these past few weeks. Today I read a piece of advice on not divorcing or breaking off a love affair if it is "51%". That 5l% is enough to stay and work on, fight for. I wonder. When my husband and I split, it seems that we were each operating at under 50%, and hadn't the juice to keep on with the relationship. I can't help feeling I made a mistake, out of ignorance. We broke up, and the bitter fruit is loneliness. Just my musing, seeded by your musings. I would never advocate settling. Recognizing 51% as a reasonable basis to build, create, heal ... and I didn't see the possibility then. And havinggiven up whatever percent I had with a good man and father of my children, I am definitely ahold out for 85+ in my next relationship. Thank you for writing. Your voice found my voice. CS

. . .

I just read your 'musings'. Thanks for sending it to me. Your poetic words gave me a glimpse into yourself. The passion. That desire to be known and to know someone intimately. To connect. I hope to hear more from you…, DN

calm quiet on mosquito path this morning . . . air & breeze in short supply as swarms prompted running; 9C, going to 30 . . a lazy Sunday morn; some reading, coffee, more reading, more coffee till some jackhammer toting jack__s spoils solitude

busy day yesterday; brief chat with daughter Krista, lunch with my dad, an email with dragon boat news in a note from birthday gal BS . . sounds like life could not be much better; dinner plans with CB got scuttled so Gusta & I hung out, she had her first butterscotch ripple experience

much earlier I found myself . . . awake, alone, aware

dawn’s early light found me longing for familiar touch

not a new touch or an old touch - but for familiarity someone who knows me would have, shared familiarity - when movement in silence is all you need, like a dance . . . without music or steps

awake, alone, aware

someone who knows me well enough to finish my sentence . . . but doesn’t; someone who shares my ache for her being . . . someone who gets me

awake, alone, aware

perhaps a touch of melancholy with my coffee

it’s 2 years since that sweet summer romance – I glimpsed an old flame in passing yesterday – I saw her, she did not notice me

no chat, just a glimpse . . . . of memories, good & bad; of heat & enlightenment & sweet summer solitude for a brief while when movement in silence was all we needed . . . like a dance without music or steps

a glimpse at a memory of dawn’s early light . .

maybe in September . . when dawn is not so early, when dawn is cool

dawn's early light keeps me warm

Mark

341,980

You might want to mention to JT that given his recent Astros experience he'd likely really enjoy Murderball, a documentary about quad rugby which is rated at 98% on the rotten tomato's movie review website. I've seen it and it's an extraordinary film. It's a sports movie, feel good movie, which gives you a glimpse into the lives of those in wheelchairs, and they turn out to be ... just like us. , JH

. . .
Hey Mark and thanks for the good wishes. No fringing, just lots of dragon boat paddling as this is the weekend for the Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival. Our team, Breast Friends, has two crews ( Bold and Brave) entered, and we had a great day with lots of sunshine and splashing. Take out pizza for supper on the porch, with all three of my boys home. And a chance to see some of their friends. But I was in Calgary on Tuesday, picking Malcolm up from the Rocky View Hospital where he had surgery for a broken arm. This was caused by a fall at Canada Olympic Park on Sunday where he was mountain biking. More later, as I must get to bed so as to be ready to paddle hard again tomorrow. Talk to you later, BS

a long walk to the bridge - several big trees fallen from the ‘new’ bank of Fish Creek; sunny 9C start to a leisurely day

expressing anger, frustration or making a strong point is curious behaviour for all of us; I enjoy observing that behaviour in others, not so much when observing me, observing my behaviour

I’ve wondered - if we planned confrontations the way we might compose a letter, a speech, a proposal . . with a beginning, a middle & an end ? . . would that be better

2 attempts this morning . . 1 effective, the other, not so sure

it seems to me that is a more productive approach than an argument that appears ‘in the moment’ where some folks ‘go with the flow’; I had 2 conversations this morning; in each I made my point - in one I was successful making my point with a beginning, a middle & an end - the other, not so sure

a pile of work & an urge to play confront me today . . . not enough time or energy to do it all; tough to choose . . I am reminded of a phrase I apply often to business prospects, projects and prospective personal relationships too – “is it real, is it worth it, can I win ?”

the Globe & Mail is late again – things to do, errands, variables in my day . . company coming . . or not ? . . . many things to do, but some will be for naught . . . but which ? this morning already littered with calls, emails & ‘stuff’ – some good & some not; it’s BS’s birthday today - happy happy

BS & MI & DP & others too; have a read of the note from JT, it will warm you to know Joe has discovered an interesting social by-product to those code changes we have fought so hard for

Mark
342,004

Hi Mark, it's been some time since we last talked. I've been really busy building our business and plan to revisit my home town of Calgary in the next few weeks. But I wanted to share something that I thought was really sad the other day. I took my family to the Astros game that was sold out. They gave away Astros lunch boxes to all the kids .. little did they know that most of the adults wanted the lunch kits and not the kids. I got mine... Yes!! ... but we didn't have tickets, so I crawled around the outskirts of Minute Maid Park (ex-Enron Field) and found a scalper who was glad to use me as a cash machine for 3 outfield tickets. I had no choice but to dispense the cash in quest of obtaining one of the Astros lunch boxes. We eventually found our way to the seating area only to find that my ticket was reserved for the handicap seats which are always located behind a set of normal bleacher seating areas. This was not uncommon as the usher informed me and proceeded to find me a chair to sit on since I wasn't wheeled in on one of my own. Well, I sat next to poor fellow in a wheel chair that is a seasons ticket holder and an Astros and baseball nut. He had a spinal condition that has relegated him to a wheelchair .. but the nicest guy I've talked too in years. It was sad, though, that the seats next to him were occupied by a bunch of insensitive baboons that looked at him like he was a lepper or, worse yet, second class citizen. He knew he was being treated that way and I asked him if it was common, he shed a small tear and said "all the time ... and it's not like I was born like this either" .... we shared good laughs, he 'stood' in line at the beer and pretzel stand and bought me my fair share of suds as I did for him. He was more normal than anyone I've met in years. For all you people out there who may feel a bit uncomfortable sitting next to someone less fortunate than us 'healthy' people, give that person some time ... you'll be pleasantly greeted with great conversation and great times. Have a wonderful weekend. In Houston, JT

. . .

pls take me off your list for now, spending too much time away from Calgary setting up university house in Lethbridge..... , RM

. . .

Hey, let me tell you that I am sorry that I missed your birthday. You are on my calendar, but like the rest of my life, my intentions are good, but I just am not very organized. Thought about you though. I am not up to date on my musings so I hope things are going well for you. Xo, AS

chilly start, 4C, brilliant sunrise greets cloudless sky; I felt more like Gusta than every yesterday - a series of energy spurts & inspiration woven throughout my day . .

starting a day with fruit & fibre is supposed to be good for digestion & keeps a happy colon

my : is smiling; juicy people can teach you a lot about fibre . . . about many things; when people come & go in your life there is no reason to not keep them around, keep them in your life; not always possible or smart, but often I think people miss these golden opportunities

sometimes, when we least expect it things we have done & how we have treated someone come back to haunt us . . but usually in a very nice way; in a sense like having your past catch up to you with a smile . . with the touch of a hand . . . or a phone call . . or an email at any time of the day

in my life – like yours, we have family . . . they come with the territory, we don’t choose them; then there are the others in our lives who matter; I have a collection . . of treasures, I keep collecting with no end point in sight or in mind

2 gems from my collection on my mind this morning . . .

two women who have been & continue to be the finest of friends, each epitomize grace under pressure – strong willed, brilliant stars, profound influences, dealing with joy & pain & joy & pain more than most of us deserve – each far away; SC & KT both made contact yesterday

we have shared so much joy & pain & laughter & tears

I’ve wondered what it would be like to connect the two of them – while worlds apart in many ways, they have much in common besides the string attached to my heart

joy is everywhere - so is pain; precious are those opportunities when treasured friends let us share both

Mark

342,028

Hi Mark - I just returned from two weeks in Kenya on safari. What a fabulous and insightful experience. I really related to your comments on watching and listening skills. I learned so much from observing all of the animals on our two game drives per day. I found the courting and mating procedures of particular interest. I would highly recommend you consider a safari. I would love to read your musings from bush prospective. I have been a muser since about March of 2005. You contacted me through Match. We only communicated once or twice. I had mentioned that I was interested in meeting someone who was more geographically desirable. Let's keep the lines of communication open. I have developed many close friendships all over the globe. You have done a great job on Musing! VBL

. . .
Great message, AA

Hi Mark, counting blessings is always so easy as we walk hand in hand with nature...that walk by the loch each morning with the dog, or indeed anywhere, lets you view rebirth and renewal almost every where we glance, and reminds us of our own rebirth chances in each and every day. Grabbing them is the courageous act... methinks, SF

. . .
This is intriguing. I can only imagine who may have signed me up for this or perhaps you've taken advantage of the fact that I am with the media. At any rate, could you please reply to this message? I am curious to hear more about it and smell a story in the air for Dose magazine, TZ

8C, raining again/still, as we walk curb gutters run full & fast, faster on a downslope – Gusta sees them as a ‘streams to run in / water fountain combo’ which is most fun at high speed; weather is supposed to clear up by evening

stars shine brightly day & night – every day, every night

through this steady rain I see only shades of gray & gray-blue & gray some more – while the sun shines brightly above those clouds as surely as any other day – but I cannot see it, I find it hard to visualize until a sliver comes through, as it will later today; then it will all be automatic taken for granted & routine once again

this is metaphor for people in our lives, staff, colleagues, collaborators, shining brightly but stuck in darkness, their brilliance obscured from view because we choose not to see – sadly sometimes I miss the slivers too

in many ways they brilliantly shine yet I often don’t see them

it’s ‘always raining something’, my view clouded or obscured by distractions

all the while they burn brightly

who is your brightest star ?

do you see them glow ?

whether they are glowing for you, for someone else or – most importantly – for themselves, try seeing them . . . amazing what is on display if we only try to look, to ask the right kind of open ended question that opens them to revealing

sadly, we often ignore, shut down or squelch people . . . often to put a dark cloud between us that prevents us from ever seeing their brilliance

my friend, my foe, my most intimate acquaintance, the most abject stranger, my child, my neighbour, an associate, my competitor . . . my brightest stars are always glowing, but what/who do I see today ?

they shine brightly every day – like the stars we don’t see by day, they shine just as brightly

our sun shines ALWAYS though rainy days obscure it – at night the world rolls over to sleep letting the other side bask a while

a great meeting of BRIGHT collaborators/co-conspirators yesterday, not just slivers but brilliant illumination – my notes & that energy will fuel a heavy duty writing day for me on several project fronts

this is a good day to be inside, hunkered down . . another pot of coffee & some soft warm background music will muffle the sounds of tires humming through & squashing puddles

happy birthday Trees [TA], vacationing/working/taking root in Mexico . . may your tree have many more rings & much sunshine today

sometimes in these musings we get off on tangents . . . lately cats & my aversion to women who keep them has been tilted out of proportion; enough already

Mark

342,076

Mark , after reading about your date preferences, you better not ever give me a hard time about wanting to only date tall men that dance. Ha Ha CC

. . .
Mark, my sincerest condolences to PF on the loss of her dear four-legged companion. I never believed that the death of a pet could possibly compare to losing a beloved human family member or friend. But having adopted Riley-the-Wonder-Dog last October, we cannot imagine our day without her in it. She has taught all of us about the power of devotion. Unconditional love is unconditional love, regardless of its source. My thoughts are with you, PF., LR

. . .

Hi Mark! I am so glad that you befriended Gusta! I think that your musings since then have become more playful and, interestingly enough, perhaps even a tad more in tune with your sensitive side, should I say! I have meant to ask you for some time now to send me a picture of her...I often read your comments about Gusta to my 8 yr old daughter and she also would love to see a picture of her. Thanks in advance!, LM

I wonder, when do low clouds become fog ? when does fog become low cloud ? this morning they seem to meet in the tree tops somewhere; 7C wet & cool - Gusta & owner returned refreshed & wet

I’ve got a new book on the go, a signed copy gift from one of the authors [a muser] – thanks LH; the subject being the behaviour of high profile promiscuous men – ‘The Walrus Theory’ seems a good chuckle so far not sure I agree with the premise, but maybe I’ll learn some techniques

great chat with TJ from SK last night; sorry you were pre-empted by a West Wing re-run

birth & death, these are the bookends of a life; Beatrix’s poem reminds us that the dash in between birth & death dates is the most important

"To not think of dying, is to not think of living." - Jann Arden

but when dying happens to someone near, who can think of anything else ?

perhaps we can express things about, to & of pets that are tougher to say out loud about some of the people who leave our lives

death, dying & mourning - topics of frequent discussion lately as KT & I discussed Dixie memories . . . discussed the ‘good life, good death’ concept

good death; we deserve to celebrate good mourning as we celebrate births

but when any loss rips our insides, pain & hurt & sadness prevail . . . wailing can happen – perhaps it is required

letting go, saying good bye, giving voice to grieving expectations lost ought to be written of more as part of the recipe of life – like the icing on a cake

Peg’s Amelia, the flying dog who traversed Colorado mountains, Texas & Ohio & became well known to everyone who knows Peg is gone

"People living deeply have no fear of death." - Anais Nin

surely Anais was a dog owner; one who saw every day unhesitating innocence, joy & loyalty evidenced by a ‘waggle bone connected to the heart bone’ of dog & owner

at first blush, these dogs seem to have no concept of the reality we see as they nuzzle, lick & play with us without regard to the kind of day they had

maybe they see it more deeply that we do; they live purely innocently deeply & without hesitation . . . it’s a dog’s life

to those who admonish me for despising cats, I should afford an offhand meow; I don’t hate cats & their owners – I don’t care for cats – if I have a choice, I choose differently

good mourning

Mark
342,100

So glad we connected, Mark. Although I'm a rather tough cookie to crack at times, you certainly have struck a chord with me. Hope we can touch base soon. TJ

. . .

Hello again Mark, embracing solitude well is the secret to a happy existence for those of us who chose to live alone. This life of mine is the good book on the shelf in lots of differing categories, friendships, lovers, acquaintances, children etc. The giving of yourself to another in complete trust and love to have broken , yet again, is the hurdle too high for me to jump or contemplate,.. so for now I exist within this library. maybe some of you out there will understand that concept. SUZY XX ( Good to have your correspondence again) . And yes the misty high ground of Scotland does roll in and over you and consumes the being and vision and adds mystery to every twist and turn, a bit like life really, SF

. . .

... there ARE nice "cat women" -- I'm one of them!! I love dogs and most dogs are great, except for the yappy bugger next door to me, but cats are independent, can be left alone for the day or a couple of days without a worry, don't eat furniture or shoes and almost never leave little surprises on the floor (except for the odd hairball)!! As for music, I am very much a rock 'n' roll fan myself and agree Shania is painful to listen to but for some reason, men think she's great towatch...go figure... Have a great week, cc

. . .

Are those all non-negotiables? What if you met someone that was all of that except for one thing? You may be short-changing yourself if those are the rules. Dogs and cats don't have to be mutually exclusive, do they?, BC

. . .

Cats, country music, coffee. I think you're missing the point, Mark. It seems to be that it's about the path and not the destination. That is, you talk a lot about connection/randomness/sparks - which are wonderful things that happen in the moment - but you seem to still be constantly focused on where it all ends up, not on where it is -- which is right in front of you each and very moment. Life is now, not then. Anyway, that's how it seems to me. But then again, what would you have to write about if it was all OK just as it is? Maybe this is a writer's dilemna, to create drama from the normal. Also, thanks to SW for a lovely description of what some of those lonely moments are like. I do think that the truth is we all (single, married and otherwise) feel them from time to time and it's OK. We don't have to define our lives by them, no more than a bad cup of coffee. We are who we are, alone or apart. That doesn't change by finding that special someone. PM

. . .
Well Mark - I'm prompted to write as a result of the chuckle I had reading cc's response to you about cats and country music - so I just had to add my 2 bits worth also - I have a dear friend who like yourself was seeking the love of a great lady - he too did not want a lady who liked cats or had kids - guess what - for the past 5 years he's been extremely happy with the lady who moved in with her - 3 - count them - 3 cats and teenage rebel daughter - In fact things are going so well between them I hear wedding bells ringing soon! So relax - when it happens the wish list goes out the window! SS

. . .

Thank you for the insights, I however need to reduce the amount of information that I am receiving every day., DM
I do read the Facility Calgary can you keep me on that list for now, when things calm down I will resubmit to the musings as I enjoy them when I have time

. . .
Amelia -- My DOG - - Hi Everyone, Amelia went to puppy heaven tonight. She died peacefully with her head in my lap, at the clinic with Dr. Hill and myself telling her to go to sleep. She had deteriorated significantly in the past two weeks (from 94 pounds in OH over July 4th to just 68 pounds tonight). We've had a great life, and traveled many miles together by air, footpath, and by highway. I couldn't have asked for a more loyal four-legged friend and companion. She truly was a part of our family and will be greatly missed. So give your dog a big hug tonight...I did. Take care, PF

we nearly needed lights in the park this morning as galloping Gusta blindly flew through tall dry yellow grasses; surreal like walking along an ocean beach in early morning fog [minus the water of course] or, perhaps along the moors of Scotland ?

yesterday was a great day – an incredible treatise in from SW . . thank you for confirming my thoughts resonated with at least one person . .

is THE way of things planned, accidental; is it focused or random ?

I so often fail to connect with people, clients & ingredients I think are just grand

clearly random collisions of personalities & ideas produces better energy than calculated motives & actions . . .

as the path Frost never took, each fork in a road leads somewhere where inevitably there are more forks, more choices, more opportunities to choose the brand of success we want in everything we do, everything we wish for, everyone we meet

what are the ingredients that connect & bond some people while others, notwithstanding much effort sometimes, never quite do . . . especially when the apparent required ingredients are plentiful ?

this morning – an example – see the great note from SF, of how random connections can unite people even if the one initiating that connection [in this case, me] is no part of the equation

imagine that internet enabled capacity to offer people forks in the road around the world, so someone in Scotland can connect with someone in Edmonton – two people I have never met

many times I make connections that are the most improbable; I smile & say hhhmmmm

sometimes I do my best stuff when I just let one thing leads to another thing leads to another thing

[P.S.: to those who asked, the reason musings are usually later on Monday is because I publish FacilityCalgary on Sunday night . . often going till 1:30-2:00 AM so I sleep fast, caffeine & apples wake me slowly]

Mark

342,124

Please clarify 'cat averse'... Ha ha... When are you coming over to get a signed copy of the book and see the new office. Tomorrow?, LH

. . .

You know Mark,.... I like country music and cats .. maybe you need to relax those just a bit silly. there's always some form of compromise in a relationship or maybe adjusting is a better term. I am a firm believer that there's someone out there for everyone (or maybe more than one depending on the time of life) I wish I could be there to help you out this Sunday morning. talk to you later . kisses, AI

. . .

Mark, Sandra here in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.... Loneliness! Ouch! You ripped the layers away to expose that bruise in my otherwise bountiful life! It's hard to use that word, lonely.... I usually use the word 'solitude', to mask the real feeling. Solitude seems more whole, integrated, like I am perfectly happy and content still being single post divorce four years ago. I vacillate between enjoying the freedom of singleness, and missing the connection with someone special. Sitting out on my deck this morning, sipping a strong cup of French Roast coffee, enjoying the vista of hills, lake, deer and horses grazing in the open field, I viewed an idyllic scene. Beauty in nature brings out a bittersweet mood, again, reminding me of the ache of separateness. My new landscaping I worked so hard on, is finally nearing completion, my new house, new community, new pool of various men to date, my finances secure, I'm healthy and reasonably fit; the world is my oyster! I am the envy of my married friends, who often feel stuck, yet they also say they would not want to be in my situation, of trying to find a relationship at this stage of life. Yeeeesss, it's called LONELY! Well, I know for certain, it's not for lack of trying to find someone who could be a suitable partner! In between world travels for the adventure of it, mostly alone, I've been on Match.com off and on for three years. I've had over 17,000 'hits' on my site, and get a least a hundred or more emails from interested men every month, from all over the country! Some have flown in to meet me. Some drive for hours. Some are local and we meet for the typical coffee, wine, or dinner date. I email or talk on the phone with some for weeks before we meet, only to be disappointed in person, at the lack of chemistry and spark! Some misrepresent their height, weight, number of teeth, or financial situation. Some cannot carry on an intelligent conversation. Some are married, and neglected to say that right off the bat!! Some have young dependent children and fight with their ex's; a deal breaker for me! Some are boring, self absorbed, want a trophy wife who looks good on their arm, and a woman who wears F...me high heels and mini skirts....not me!! If I think too much about the odds of casting about in the universe, and coming up with the serendipity and synchronicity of meeting someone special, I would tend to despair, especially if I based it on my experience so far! I've been re-reading an old favorite book entitled, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People", by Stephen Covey, and just this morning contemplated the section on being proactive to choose our response to our life circumstances. He cites the difference between blaming circumstances, conditions, for our behavior, or...to have a conscious choice base on our values. So, once again, I set myself to choose to continue to search, to learn and listen, to be open, to meet a wide variety of men, of various ages, within my basic criteria of what I intrinsically value....I can still feel the full gamut of feelings on the journey....and loneliness is one of the most piercing emotions. I must remind myself that in my former 30 year marriage, I often felt lonely as well....So, it's not an exclusive domain of Single adults! And, I continue to grow and develop other areas of my life that bring meaning, enjoyment and fulfillment, such as physical health and exercise, business opportunities, joining the new book club with professional woman, spending time with children and grandchildren, and enjoying the discovery of being in a new community! Thanks again for your musings Mark....I'm glad I stopped to read this one today!, SW

. . .

Hi Mark: Sorry it took so long to get back to you but I have been on vacation and just returned. I have decided to stay in Yk for at least another year and have taken a new job with the GNWT. I start tomorrow. It was a difficult decision to make but I guess the bottom line is I wasn't quite ready to move again and to start over so soon after moving here. So that means I will not be moving to Calgary anytime soon, though I was there for one night of my vacation. I was traveling with my brother and family otherwise I would have let you know so we could possibly have gotten together for a coffee or drink...we actually went to Kelowna for a couple of days, then the second week in Edmonton I got my eyes done so now I don't have to wear glasses anymore and its great. Especially when it gets cold up here now I don't have to worry about my glasses steaming up......lol I do enjoy reading your musings and reading about what is happening in your life. You do indeed lead a very busy life and certainly have more options for meeting people than us poor nomads of the north.....actually there isn't anything poor about the north.....lol..I manage to keep busy and in trouble quite often......lol.... Enjoy what’s left of the weekend.........its pretty cool up here and a great afternoon to just curl up with a good book and a glass of wine. Take care, CF

. . .

What do you have against cats, women who like cats and country music? You are not only narrowing your playing field by a lot, you could be missing a future of opportunity with an engaging, intelligent, warm, loving, yet lonely woman just because she happens to have a cat and a thing for Merle Haggard., cc

. . .

Hi Mark it only seemed right to send you a huge thank you for connecting Joan and I. I have just spent the weekend in Edmonton at her home and have had the most lovely time, isnt it great when online friendships just get better in reality. She is an outstanding woman and I am so glad she is my friend and confidante. She and I are truly blessed in this unique and ongoing connection and had it not been for you our paths would never have crossed. So from me to you a Huge Hug and grateful thanks,. I head back to Vancouver today for 6 days with my sons,. then back to Scotland. Hope all is well in your world Ciao SUzy XXXXXX, SF

Gusta visited with Zack, she seems to like older males . . .but then again doesn’t everyone; but alas, it is just puppy love

13C, gorgeous morning, calm – we walked undisturbed

a 9 hole fun tournament with some Toastmasters yesterday was a blast; looking forward to next year

now home with a golden retriever foot warmer sleeping under my desk, I must get to work

but first I need to feed 4400 in-boxes

need to feed my need to write

from my belly most times, but some days I need to reach deeper; this one from my toes:

not alone, but lonely

not melancholy, but lonely

not unhappy, but lonely

clear, focused, driven; but lonely

I focus on microscopic truth telling – I fail often – but I try harder

on the subject of lonely . . loneliness, I fudge a little, I skirt the truth, I hedge my bets as if hoping that with a stiff upper lip + some bravado no one will notice

imagination is fuelled with a delicious recipe of fantasy, hopes, dreams & energy – mine has become more fertile than ever lately; by simply imagining how some things might work out, I have generated the momentum to make them happen

if I can do this at work, why not at play ? why not use the tools that make things happen in commerce to make things work in my personal life ?

being ‘between positions’ is not fun . . .

but this condition is not simply cured by sending notes ‘Monica, please come visit. Regards, Bill ’

talking, it would seem, it seems to be ‘not done’ , it seems to be politically incorrect; in middle aged dating parlance, that bugaboo is the admission of loneliness

to talk about or to define LONELY - it’s just not done !

while saying it out loud does not mean failure in any form, but anticipation of reactions in others would make it seem so; do you know anyone who is lonely ? do they admit it ?

we single folk in the mid 30’s - mid 60’s spin so much yarn of full lives, circles of friends & busy schedules, full plates of work, play, family, travel, interests, hobbies ad naseum

some of us mask it with humour, some of us mask it with outrageous behaviour or extreme sports; something that drains the body, pumps the adrenaline & distracts from the issue of the day

loneliness is not a state of mind as much as it is a circumstance

I think most of the rationalizations I encounter . . mine & others; we go to great extremes to fill available time with activity, fill conversations with intriguing ideas, questions & curiosity

at the heart of it, at the sole [pun intended for fellow walkers] of it, at the nub, at the hub, in the middle & of the whole there is this need for physical, intellectual & caring contact with someone who feels at least a little bit the same way

truth be told we all want it all – we want it in volume & reciprocal – and we want it now !

but in the meantime, a minute stolen, an hour borrowed, a brushed elbow, a touch . . . how powerful those can be

conversely, the hug from someone who avoids eye contact or a guest who chooses the lone chair vs. the couch, these false gestures leave me cold & disaffected; half measures leave me empty, disinterested & ready to gag

I cannot imagine anything bringing joy that is not full throttle & reciprocated

my world is whirring . . . much to do, some new things generating interest & momentum, some old things getting refined; still the mystery woman of my future eludes me but I know she is out there somewhere

I have had a few encounters recently with musers who have asked to meet me + chance meetings with new prospects around a few corners + the ongoing perusal of internet dating sites [and DK, I thought you were fixing me up on a blind date ?? .. you’ve been conspicuously silent my friend]

I have been connecting more & better with women from this musing gene pool of late . . . I should perhaps articulate my wish list . . . so anyone interested in me would know . .

I would like to invite an incredibly whole 44ish to 58ish strong bright woman, dog friendly, cat averse, golfer, non smoker & intolerant of country music; women who might be right for me should be attractive to me & vice-versa, they should have a well developed mind that gets regular exercise & love to hang out on a Sunday morning

I had hopes/wished/fantasized a bit about a sweet summer romance, but alas, it appears not to be happening; maybe I should wish for a sweet September

I fail often – but I try harder

many thanks JF, you sent a gem !

Mark

342,148

Sure, Mark, blame the bass. Perhaps, without your reading glasses, you messed up the sauce recipe. I would expect you're an intense, hence intimidating, first date. Maybe a more neutral venue would have helped. Or maybe you should have gone with the shrimp....,RH

. . .

Can I choose my friends? Can I decide who my friends will be? When I decide who I want to spend my time with the quality of my life is impacted. Sometimes, children know better than adults. Here's one girl who has some wisdom to share...go to: http://www.StupidAdults.com , JF

Your musings are adorable, but I would prefer to check your blog rather thanreceive the blasts. Please remove me from your list. Thank you so much!!! :), MO

. . .
..................go for the seabass or the salmon., KE

. . .
we certainly show our age when condoms are the first things that come to mind when we think Trojans, good morning laugh for me, thanks, SB

. . .
Mark, oh, ye of little faith. I have not canceled my tee-off time for today because the weather will turn and become that familiar cool, clear(er), Calgary autumn afternoon. I would go with the sea bass., Rh

. . .

Good morning Mark: Just read your musings wanted to send my best wishes for a great "fish" dinner tonight. Hope all is well, CB

9C, showery weather ending today . . . supposedly, warm weekend expected, wet happy dog, wet happy owner – love walking in the rain & getting wet [so long as it is not too cold], papers & breakfast out of the way . . time to get in some keystrokes

“What we anticipate seldom occurs; what we least expected generally happens.”
– Benjamin Disraeli

I am looking forward to some un-expected things . . . but with great anticipation

around the corner, in the middle, in the front, at the back under everything there is something interesting awaiting my discovery . . . it may come from poking & prodding & probing deeply, but the best insights come better from merely observing; I like observing others, I often dislike observing my own actions – not because they are bad or sinister or anything like that, but because close self observation carries with it a duty to examine, reflect, look inward – then harder work follows . . . some days I would like a day off from that; but not today !

workload & weather predictions cancelled today’s plan for golf . . KK & I will have to find a dry day soon when our desks are clear . . .

last night friend & computer wiz WB came over . . . he scanned & probed & ferreted out some Trojans [I don’t mean condoms!] & further inoculated my little black box – amazing how much faster it runs; amazing too the comfort level of feeling again I can rely on things without a sense of being infiltrated by ill-willed demons; thanks again Warren . . my ‘about:blank’ eradicator

this morning, frenetic mix of work & errands; this afternoon a pile to read + work & clean & chop & slice . . company coming this evening; dinner with a new friend, she says she likes fish, so I’m thinkin’ seabass or salmon ? . . . or shrimp ?

chop & slice are not golf terms . . . at least till tomorrow, when they will be

happy weekend all

Mark
342,196

Musing: I have been reading your daily writings for some time now and I have to askthis question; how did I come to receive your daily emails?, CD

. . .
Please remove me from you daily distribution. I will play catch up on your blogsite as I can.. Thanks, DM

. . .
Mark: It did feel like fall out there this morning when I was walking Harper! Just a quick note that, in my opinion, you already have a lot of "real things" in your life - and some "joyousness" as well. (I won't play grammarian and question the existence of that word.) Hugs, AW

. . .
the reward of patience is patience"...., PC

. . .
Greetings Mark and many belated wishes for your birthday and a grand year ahead. Your query today reminded me that my greatest loves have come about by accidental meeting on a bus in France and at a function in Calgary. At least these two still resonate in my heart strings years later. The greatest opportunities also came about as I was set out on another course entirely - So my experience has led me to believe things that are meant to happen in life come about when you are meant to experience them - by accident more than plan - and not necessarily at the most opportune moment but when you might least expect it - When they do come though they capture all of you for the next chapter of your life's journey. I'm not sure you recognize their significance at the time as these "events" consume your time, thoughts and energy but more so in reflection when another chapter opens, ss

6C chill greeted us as we walked around the lagoon, Gusta observes flotilla of Canada geese, calculating her attack strategy; my eyes on the horizon as sunrise would come soon, as it did, flooding our landscape with he chartreuse end of the spectrum

how do we recognize the real thing when it shows up ? I hunger for that

whether the ‘great job’, the great lead, the great bargain, the great opportunity, the great lover . . .I don’t mean just ordinary superlatives here; but when greatness comes knockin’ are you listening, paying attention & recognizing it for what it could be ?

I often wonder about that . . . it could be an email from a stranger, a call from someone saying ‘check this out’ or a connection with someone who smiles a lot . . . it could be my next great best opportunity every, it could be my great opportunity to know joyousness . . .

will I just know ? or do I need to be hit on the head with it! I hunger to know the answer

will it be a Canmore, Calgary . . or far off land connection; will my joy be found at home or traveling, will my pleasure come from proactive pursuit . . or from that old alliance with patience

oh how I value patience; I admire those who have enough of it

maybe one day I will . .

yesterday capped with a Toastmasters meeting, our first in a new place . . . with a new ‘apres-Toastmasters’ venue too; group dynamics, new people, democracy in action & great speeches too

I’m ravenous

breakfast downtown with JJ . . gotta run

Mark
342,220

Hi Mark, I'm going to be in the south of France until the end of the month. Driving all the way from Suffolk to Perigord. Should be hot. My sister has let me use her timeshare in a cottage in the hills. I will be out of range for most modern means of communication so could you suspend musings for a couple of weeks. I'll be glad to hear from you when I get back. Might send a report if I find a suitable internet cafe. A bientot bisous de Shelagh, SK

Gusta went a little berserk in the wet; mostly I like the quiet in the park, just the sound of water splashing off leaves dripping on the ground & the splat splat splat on the pavement; 10C, chilly & walking in steady drizzle with an old Dean Martin song in my head, I think the title was ‘Houston’, that line ‘I’m just walkin’ in the rain . .’ going round & round - can’t shake it; a good day to walk & ponder in the rain

I work in a whirl of detail detail detail – it runs through my work life like location location location – it is everywhere and I am good at it

yet, where I fail most is through procrastination on my own world of detail - personally & corporately my ‘keeping up’ most often entails putting things on the correct pile, in the right file or in ‘the correct box’ knowing full well the joy of opening it at tax time compounds the work and most things cannot be left that long thanks to reminder notices from Ottawa !

I keep good records & do great accounting meticulously when I do it, but I so hate the doing of it that any procrastination will suffice

putting another piece of paper on the pile . . to do tomorrow . . but then tomorrow is always a day away

today or tomorrow brings a phone call or some other source of the next great potential project or the next opportunity to compete for an assignment – then tomorrow becomes the day after tomorrow

procrastination should be a word revered like other words starting with ‘pro’ proactive, promote, provide, prosper - when it comes to procrastination, I’m a pro

while it is agonizingly dull & boring there is a relief I get after getting record keeping up to date that is like banging my head against the wall – it feels so good when its over !

rainy weather predicted through the weekend; paper pushing & number crunching will be my entertainment . .

I’m just walkin’ in the rain . .

Mark
342,244

Happy belated birthday, it has become a true pleasure knowing you (didn't quite know how to take you at times). I wish you all the success going forward and thank-you for the courage to share your most inner thoughts and feelings! Regards, DC

. . .
Mark, I find it amazing that people request to be removed from your musings because they are "too busy". Give me a break. Everybody is busy. I am very busy too. However, the few mins I take everyday to read your musings makes my day better. Thanks Mark. HS

. . .
Happy belated Birthday, Mark - The trip to PEI and NS was interesting with some fun and laughs with old friends. The visit with my dad was a bit tougher than I anticipated, I think I should have stayed with the previous images of what he was like when we were growing up or images from the last time I visited and recognized who I was. He is probably happy in his world but I certainly hope not end my life in the same state. Enjoyed your musings when I was away. Regards, JF

. . .
Mark, I as well have been guilty of not reading your musings on a regular basis. Amazing how time flies. It seems like yesterday that I left Calgary for Vancouver. I've had numerous work related challenges and am finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel. Now that I have some time to myself and it is not all dedicated to work, I am also toying with the idea of bringing a companion (pet dog) into my life. Happy Belated Birthday and best wishes to the coming year. SS

. . .
Needed to respond to your quote, "many of the things I was focused on last August are long gone"....since it has been a year since we first connected I am glad that I am not in the latter category.....keep musing and thanks for touring the "neat place". Glad you survived the "cat encounter", BP

. . .
Please Remove, enjoy the comments but prefer to read the blog, JA

witnessing perfection in the morning is a great way to start the day; whether looking at a 6 month old pup, a 1 year old doe or any of my memories looking at my children – free to enjoy life without any worries beyond ‘when do we eat?’ to trouble them; 12C, cloudy, chance of showers as our walk this morning involved some ‘up close staring time’ at each other with 2 young does, a pause then deer & dog wanted to rush off, their interest in food greater than their interest in each other

I read something the other day about looking back at things you did a year ago to see how much of those efforts, ideas, initiatives are alive & well today vis-à-vis those that evaporated along the way

many of the things I was focused on last August are long gone

a useful exercise I suppose to recognize fruitless energy . . .the waste

hindsight is not particularly productive

but what about things I am doing right now ?

a year from now, which ones will be flourishing ?

which ones will be going or gone from memory . .

this technique may not be for everyone, but I try to think of something imaginative, bold, daring & with potential . . . I do that every day every year . . . which produces way too many notes tucked in files or buried in piles, it produces way too many distractions . . . but it produces other things far more worthwhile

it inspires me to pursue opportunities, however remote
it inspires me to dare where others dare not
it inspires me to look forward rather than back
it inspires me to take chances, it inspires me to explore new opportunities, to plow new fields of endeavor

of all the things on my plate I know there will be carnage in some, successes in others; a year from now I will look back and enjoy them all because each taught lots

every day is a ‘new idea day’ if you let it me

every day offers the opportunity to look forward or backward – to do a little each day is a good thing – just never look back with regret

most go attack the pile & go touring properties with my protégé . . tic toc

Mark

342,268

This could only be you. Neat musings. I've been out of the office for the past week. What's with the 55th year? And since when is your birthday on Aug. 7? I thought it was today! Either way, happy birthday. Hope this year's an excellent one. Best regards, RS

. . .

I hope you have a very happy birthday., AC

. . .
Mark, I started getting your musings by default when I joined this awesomecompany. I admit the first few musings found themselves in my trash boxbut I chanced to read one and I have been hooked since then. My friends are becoming avid readers too. Your words are inspiring and although belated, Happy Birthday and may you have many more! , DG

. . .
Hi Mark, I have just recently been receiving your emails, but am now leaving my job and will have to ask that this email address be removed from your records. Thanks for all the insights and commentary, they have been interesting., FE

. . .
I would like to commend you on your musings, but at the same time I must request to be removed from the e-mail list. Too much material to review and I can't force myself not to read yours (for which I don't have time). regards,PB

. . .
Hi Mark - I have been enjoying your daily musings, but my IT department has classified your email as "non work-related"... be that as it may. Could you please remove me from your email list (just for the musings emails), and I will visit your blogspot instead. Thank you for the service which you provide., AB

. . .
Thank you for your musings which I have enjoyed for some time now. However, for the time being I'm quite busy and my mind rather occupied with other things, so I suggest that you stop sending the musings to me. All the best, IR

. . .
Happy Birthday and many happy returns, Dear!! Will be 59 next month... amazing how time flies!! Hard to believe I've been around for almost 60 years!! Boggles my imagination!! However have I managed to do this?? Guess everyday is an adventure and somehow those days just keep adding up, when I am not looking!! LOLOL Hope your day was a delightful one, shared with friends and family!! Hugs Dear!! , JB

. . .

Mark I just got connected here in the Edmonton office and see that you had a Birthday. MANY HAPPY RETURNS AND MANY MORE HEALTHY MUSING YEARS TO YOU!!!!!!!!!!! I can make Thursday @ 7:00AM if it is good for you, JJ

. . .
Hi, Mark, missed your emails indicating your birthday was coming up…had a weekend full of activities with my kids so wasn’t checking email. And, I wanted to wish you a very happy (albeit belated) birthday! Hope you enjoyed it., DD

. . .
Mark, My apologies as friends are not suppose to overlook another friends birthday!!!! I do hope and it sounds like you had a good one. My wishes albeit late are that you enjoy this year, and many more to come and it brings you all that you deserve. All the best, CB

cool, cloudy, 14C, light breeze . . it might rain; our morning walk short due to some early work & a meeting – more exercise later !

many thanks to those who called & wrote with birthday wishes & kind reminders of how fast I’m fading

the frenetic pace seems to stay the same with each passing year – maybe even becoming more frenetic as I get better tools to deal with more better faster

more better faster
more better fine
more better
better
fine

FINE !

today is just another Monday, but lots on the plate too . . . . lunch with DD . . meeting later with Warren to give my computer a flu shot so it stops being vulnerable to sneezes, hiccups & viruses!

the work day beckons hurry up .. so I will . . bye all, I’m busy & dashing . .

Mark

342,292

I wish an happy birthday to you! and a good luck of another year!, RC

. . .
Happy Birthday Mark!!! I like your comments on Freedom 55!!! And you know the saying.... we aren't getting older, just better!! EK

. . .

The blank page of a new year provides lots of promise! Enjoy every day...you'll be amazed when they have accumulated to another year! All the best, Mark., NC

. . .

Happy Belated Birthday Mark, and remember one thing being happy is a choice. Enjoy all your choices!, MD

. . .

Happy birthday Mark. Sorry I missed wishing you all the best yesterday. Better late than never. HS

. . .
HEY, Mark K. 54 huh? I agree with one of the respondents listed below - age is just chronological numbers (and if we take a more metaphysical/non-linear/complex/organic/quantum mechanics approach, the numbers might not even be "chronological"; after all, I feel to be more in shape now than I was some twenty years ago (with a more active libido to boot - who needs Viagra, just require that terrific woman whom might be able to keep up)! Nonetheless, on the "linear plain," I am just over one year "behind" you!!! Enjoy the day Mark K!, Mark I

. . .

Happy Birthday Mark, Was thinking about you this weekend and hoping you were enjoying your day ! I’m hoping that your birthday is filled with laughter and love. Be well and be good to you. Best of Birthdays !!, VE

. . .
Happy Birthday! Wasn't home in time to send you wishes. Sounds like you had a great day and dinner with the family. I hope I'm as 'young' as you when I get that old. :)) SM

. . .
Hope you had a great Birthday ! Numbers don't mean a thing , it's how you feel inside and I know for a fact you are still young and adventurous. (But you are still older than me .. hehe, CC

. . .

Just in under the wire to wish you a very happy birthday! Hope it has been a good one., SD

. . .

Here's wishing you a very happy birthday and all you dream of. Birthdays are special and I am glad you celebrated it rather than ignored it, as so many people prefer to do. Sincerely, PG

13C, a cooler overcast start today gave way to sunshine as Gusta & I ventured out to meet 3 young bucks less than 10 metres from my patio . . . cruisin’ for a friendly doe or two I suspect; later, Maureen & Gusta escorted me to the park & back . . . conversation over bagels & coffee & saying bye till next time

I didn’t do a lick of work yesterday; MM & I walked Gusta, took in Millarville farmer’s market [note to self: ‘target rich environment’ . . must go back there !!] & a round of golf @ Shawnee followed by dinner with my dad & my daughters & their friends

few things impress me a lot, but I cannot remember being as impressed as I was yesterday; my daughters travelled from Lethbridge & Calgary just to take me out for dinner - we had a great time; to those who called or sent cards & emails many thanks

we are born naked, wet, and hungry; then things get worse

then they get better & better

death is a once in a lifetime experience I am in no hurry to try; life, on the other hand, is an every day experience - an every day experience that need not be routine, boring, or without sparks; it need not be one of eat right, exercise daily, live clean, die anyway

besides, I can’t die, my affairs are not in order . . . nor will they be !

as I realize I am embarking on my 55th year - memories of all those ‘freedom 55’ ads on television float in & make me laugh - my life is rich, full & interesting & busy & so remote from retiring I cannot imagine anything like putting my feet up being likely; this is my brand of ‘freedom 55’

my 55th year . . . freedom 55; I am free to explore & challenge & venture like I will live forever

free to be bold & adventurous because it could all end tomorrow . . or the day after . . or in 40 years . . . I better get started, there is not an hour to waste !

54 years gone, 342,416 hours to go . . . yeah, this feels good

now about those affairs . . .

Mark

342,416

Morning Mark, Hope you have a great birthday.....still enjoying the musing. Take care..., MR

. . .

Happy Birthday Mark!, PF

. . .

Happy Birthday – SM

. . .

Have a great one, my friend!, LR

. . .
Dear Mark, I probably knew it was your birthday, but have been a bit selfish and not thinking of my friends but what I will get to do to celebrate mine in 11 shortdays, hhhmmm to stay in Mexico or get to a place where I can really celebrate with some people who have cared long and deep for me? You know us leos do liked to be fussed over! Happy Birthday old boy!! Celebrate in knowing how many people you touch albeit in strange ways each and every day. Sinceramente, TA

. . .

Happy Birthday Mark., KC

. . .
Happy Birthday Mark !! How I wish I was 54 again & know what I know now !!!!! have good one & give Gusta a juicy bone so she can celebrate too !! Very best wishes, bb

. . .
Happy Birthday to you, will call another day as I am sure you are quite busy with the celebration. Hope you had a fabulous day... Just had a thought ...maybe we could go for a walk, my "Stanley" (Bichon Frise) and Gusta could romp and play...while we chat! Speak to you soon, JR

. . .

Kolke, Age is just a number . . . for you a Big number ! …LOL. Have a great day, KN

. . .

Mark, Have a very happy birthday!! 54 isn't old at all. Most things still work. Your golf swing is still good (not great just good). Your dad, kids and dog still care for you. So enjoy the day. All the best., BB

. . .
Mark, I'm going to refer a potential client to you via e-mail. They have a property in mid -city that they've been trying to rent for a long time. How do I connect you two? Via your musings or do you have another means ?, NF

12C this morning, gorgeous sunrise; Gusta & I took Maureen for a walk to Fish Creek & introduction to stairmaster hill . . . a great workout to start the day

battles of ideology are as old as time, the tools a mix of old & new . . . so many years later, the scars of Hiroshima are fading as are memories; today we focus on the Iraq quagmire as fears ripple in every country regarding terrorism

geo-political drama is painful to watch from any vantage point as wise & good hearted people wage war & defense with each other like it was board game strategy; it seems like they never learn new ways of figuring things out

are there parallels, I wonder, between how we deal with each other relative to these things; do people to crappy things to friends & family in the same old way . . . mini battles of ideology bolstered by repeating counterproductive behaviours & proven poor strategies

do we [people or countries] truly have the ability to genuinely change or is it just pretentious window dressing attempts to fake change

August 6, the day that ushered in the atomic age, a day of such unspeakable horror that gave rise to the cold war & cold fear as cold hearted men began the ‘balance of power’ tug of war that characterized the 2nd half of the 20th century

a day of rest & play awaits as MM & Gusta & I are off to the Millarville market; later some golf @ Shawnee followed by a birthday [mine] dinner with my dad & daughters Carla & Krista; I am mightily impressed & thrilled tons

today I’ll celebrate the last day of my 53rd year . . . thanks for coming along to help me enjoy the ride

till tomorrow then, when you are all a day older . . . while I will be a year older

Mark
342,440

Hello Mark. Interesting "musing" this am. Thank you for the address to toastmasters. I will for sure try to make it for the Wed. night meeting. Someone commented how old is he/she? Well, I am for sure a "she" and how old? that one can determine when "seeing"/meeting in person., EL

. . .
Hi Mark and musers. In reply to AC, what kind of friend? I think that people can co-operate on parenting with most exes; sometimes an ex can be a colleague; an ex can be a neighbour, an ex can be the friend of family and friends. Connections to an ex seem to continue with echoes of the relationship feelings and unexpected flashes of relationship behavior and unlikely vibes to renew the relationship on some level and in my opinion it just isn't the same as a connection to a real friend. Each ex needs to be strong enough to define that "friendship" to suit them, that can be easy to talk about and really tough to carry out in practice. Thinking of new paths, there are lots of good people who are also good company and who might/could/have the potential - to become friends. LHE

. . .
The energy for all relationships comes from purpose and desire. Purpose: lift each other up on all levels ie., financial, spiritual, emotional, physical. Desire: lift each other up on all levels ie., financial, spiritual, emotional, physical. There are people willing to offer this so NEXT is not always the way to go. Doing too much NEXT has created a culture of many 'broken toys'. There truly is a cashier to face at the end of the cafeteria line up! Being controlled by immature NEXT impulses is not always the only way to go. What is your true desire and purpose in your musings Mark? Perhaps Mark, your musings are 'infecting' your readers with ideas of 'burglarizing' our way through life? Crimes of the heart are also punishable by energetic laws...pay back is showing up in our culture big time huh? I would ponder wisely about what beliefs you share and not share, for they too reveal your true purpose and desire...what is yours really truly? Thnx, LM

. . .
AC... I have done some polling on your behalf. The concensous among my peers is you can definitely be friends with an ex. I can also attest to that from personal experience. Infact, I am meeting one for dinner next week. Just go with it and have fun!!! , HS

. . .
Hello Mark, may I ask where you reside?, AB

. . .

Good one today Mark...touched a sweet spot inside...I wonder though, does anyone else or is it just me, "get in their own way", when it comes to connecting on a deeper level. In business, if their are obstacles, I move them, quickly and efficiently however, when it comes to my personal life, I continually get in my own way. The question I ask is...how does one get out of their own way?, JR