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Edmonton April 2026

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 We had a great trip. Roads were great all the way there and nearly all great on the way back. We spent some time at the University and I took Jay shopping for his 16th birthday. We watch Maquia with Mads, a fantastic Anime. We ate out a little including a dinner at Julio's with Noelle.  I did some cooking: buns, cookies and Shepherds pie. 

50!

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 A drive. Lunch at The Flats.  But the most enjoyable part was the indulgent meal Todd put together for our evening.  He even made a black forest cake. And I heard from very nearly everyone. Even my twin, Michael Shostak texted me. 

Edmonton for New Years

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 On December 29th,  we packed up everyone's Christmas stuff and Tucker and drove to Edmonton.  It was by no means a stress free drive, but we got there and back safely albeit in a tense state.  We helped Tucker get his stuff out of the studio and brought home the 2 big metal sculptures that I eventually plan to work into my gardens.  

2025 Christmas Day

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 We picked the kiddos up Christmas Eve morning from the airport,  drove home, got ready and spent the late afternoon and evening at the farm. I took a lot of photos of everyone on my big camera.  Christmas morning went well into the afternoon as we took our time unwrapping stocking stuffers and gifts.  Todd made Eggnog. No one left the house and no one came over, it was great. That hasn't happened in an age.  It was an extra special Christmas as we opened up a lot of gifts from Loretta’s place. Brenda put together the entire gift exchange and lots went into our stockings. The best gift was the box full of calculators. The kids took a few, but the rest I'll sit in the lovely box near the gaming area to keep track of scores.

Snowfriend

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 My best friend created a snow person in Fish Creek for me. Wonderful. 

Progress Report

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 Well, the flooring is completely done in 2 2 rooms,  mine and Todd's.  We hope to get Jared's room done today. 

Change of Plans

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 After seeing the brick tile in the laundry room, we thought we might want it in the pantry as well, as more of a contrast to the wooden shelves we're putting in there. Then, Todd suggested we try it in the kitchen and low and behold, we loved it. So, change of plans. The closet isn't done yet, but we've got the trim up in Todd's room, and it looks incredible.