Ellie was the youngest person to take part in family events during our reunion weekend. She was just a few days shy of her first birthday on August 30th.
Ellie graced us with her presence on three of the four days, (missing only Monday's golf tournament, for obvious reasons).
However, at the other end of the spectrum comes Marj Gunn who celebrated her 90th birthday in February. (Tricia's Tides entry of February 22, 2007 gives a brief but vivid account of the party that Tricia herself managed to attend in honour of her Great-aunt Marj).
Mrs. Gunn came to Sunday's reception in the basement of Holy Rosary Cathedral. She spent a bit of time with Mom and then mingled with the rest of us, a few of whom she taught at Sacred Heart Academy half a century ago!
So, that Sunday afternoon in August there was a 90 year spread from the youngest to the oldest person in our midst!
In the same vein....
BIRTHDAYS FELL - THE RECORD STATES - ON TWO OF FOUR REUNION DATES.
I'm going to guess that Lorraine, Johanne and Mona missed the Taylor Field play of Thomas, Kenneth and you. In fact, didn't we all? I'll bet your wives have heard no end of that story (and more), though.
It goes without saying that we wish Mona, Lorraine and Joanne could have been in Regina with us to share in the fun of our reunion weekend. Maybe next time?
Piper was celebrating her first birthday back home in Ontario while we were eating birthday cake at our Sunday gathering at Holy Rosary Cathedral. Thanks to Bob's family tree, several of us made note of this special day in Piper's life.
The next day, Lui marked his 59th birthday by playing a reunion round of golf on the Regina Beach Course. Though he won a few prizes himself, he gave more than he received. Typical, eh?
How about this one?
EACH OF US RECEIVED A TAG... AND THREE OF THEM REVEALED A GAG.
stephen - its "toe knee" "and toe knee knee" - lui's briliant concoction.
luce - i love to see you riddling again, i remember something going on at the cabin friday, i know marty had his big toe stuck in the middle of it, something to do with tricking the above mentioned nephew about who's who. am i close?
Luckily, Marcia had the wisdom, creativity and time to make each of us a name tag to wear throughout the reunion weekend.
Thanks, Marcia, ...those identifying badges were helpful in many ways as we 100+ relatives mixed and mingled. The tags not only revealed names but they defined relationships and made family connections easy.
Stephen, you have correctly identified the three name tags that were double-sided.
Obviously, Marcia couldn't resist posting my newly-acquired nickname, Ed's weird moniker, and the anatomical references Lou "concocted" for remembering our eldest brother's name. You added humour to our day by not remembering "toe knee and toe knee knee". Still, I'm awarding you full marks for your response to this riddle!
Here's another ...
WE WERE MEANT TO EAT THESE BEADS WHICH NUMBERED WELL BEYOND OUR NEEDS.
Thom and Mike ... thanks for pitching in on Stephen's answer to my latest riddle. Good eyes, guys!
I had to award Stephen full marks for facts and fun. I'll give each of you a third of a point, too, for putting enough joints in accurate order to complete the puzzle. Luce
Luce, you are, of course referring to the giant rice krispies cake rosary. It was indeed quite impressive and fitting in light of the hundreds of configurations we've seen over the years.
Alright, I'll pretend like I know it and let somebody else get it.
And don't worry about your blog addiction. I just checked the latest research on addiction and the blog is now classified as the most addictive thing there is for persons with a specific genetic condition known as Antoninism. In other words, IT'S NOT YOUR FAULT.
Good evening world. This is the first chance I've had to post today and I see we are out of control again. I love it. Lucy, I think you owe me full points for my answer to your riddle. Frieda Schuett is at least 92 and maybe even 93, so that would make her the oldest person at our Sunday event. Of course, she isn't related to us, but she was present. And I love it that you are riddling again. Stephen, You might be an Antonini! Thomas, Good answer to Stephen re: his addiction. Love, Mom (BJ)
Well, BJ, You have tripped me up on my very first post-reunion riddle. I have not yet checked on Freda's age and I'm still finding it hard to believe that she is older than our mother. Give me a bit more time to do some research. I promise to get back to you on this one. In the meantime, I'll hold your half-marks in reserve. Love, Lucy
Thom ... I love your comments about the "impressive and fitting" rice krispie cake rosary that Louise, Steve and Ed created for Saturday's family gathering.
Think of it ... there were 15 decades, 169 ice-cream-scoop beads, a hand-shaped cross and medal, strands of red shoe-string licorice, pink icing highlights, fresh roses and smarties galore. Imagine the hours of work that went into designing, creating and assembling this edible rosary!
Thank you, Louise, Steve and Ed. Though it took us no time at all to devour your cake, we will never forget our first view of your colourful masterpiece spread out on that long, white table. Of course, we have great pictures to help us remember, too.
Funny you should ask if Mom prayed on the rosary, Thom. As she was admiring the cake, someone in the background called out, "Don't stop to pray on it, now" and everyone laughed. She never did get back to do so. I know that I said a Hail Mary as I was eating my bead. How about you?
The practicality of this cake matched its beauty. It made a magnificent centerpiece, the ready-to-serve portions exceeded the number of people present, the pieces were accessible to even the smallest in our crowd and it was every Antonini's favourite dessert.
As you say, Thom, we have seen hundreds of rice krispie configurations over the years. This was truly the best way that we could have honoured the woman who created most of them!
And now, its time for yet another riddle....
THIS DIGEST OF SOME TWENTY YEARS WILL STIR UP MEMORIES, JOYS AND TEARS.
On Saturday, August 25, Lindsey overwhelmed us with the presentation her spiral-bound Antonini Family Journal 1986-2007. Her two-year project of "reading, cutting, scanning and organizing a compilation of journal entries" is her priceless reunion gift to us.
Thank you, Lindsey, for giving us back some of "the immense love that was shared over the years" in such a concise, attractive format. We will treasure the personal copies you presented to us at our family gathering. Mine is on the coffee table in the front room of our St. Andrews home.
As we read through the reflections of the years, different quotations are sure to move us to laughter and to tears. To date, my favourite entry has to be Betty-Jo's August 1, 2002 comment:
"Family - what a wonderful world!"
Ahh...the memories just keep on coming and they are so good.
A FAMILY MEAL - RIGHT TO ITS SOURCE - WITH FORTUNES, FUN AND FOOD, OF COURSE!
You have a few others answering your riddles now Lucy. Stephen has become a regular on the blog and quick on the riddles. This one is the meal from the Wok Box. Holly Davidson lead the way and Tony's family helped her with the set up and kept watch. The fortune cookies were also a hit.
Guess what? The city came out and put some beautiful sod on the part they dug up on my lawn. I am sure they had a great laugh as they layed it yesterday.
Oh yes, Ed, Saturday's Asian supper catered by the Wok Box, under Holly Davidson's management was a bit of an adventure and a brand new taste for many of us. The food was on-time, hot, plentiful, varied and delicious.
Service, with that family touch, was also outstanding. As the line of people moved along the serving table, Dustin and Keenan kept a close watch on food and supplies (including chopsticks). They made sure that none of us missed out on anything, even when we returned for second helpings!
Earlier in the afternoon, when Dave and I stopped to chat with Dustin, Kelly, Keenan and Holly, they were into the family party, at ease and having fun with the rest of us. You would never have known that they would soon be on deck, serving up a family supper for over 100 people. That's class!
Believe it or not, a day or so later, Mom, David and I had a wonderful meal of Wok Box leftovers from our family supper. Leftovers you ask? How did that happen?
Holly, Dustin, Wok Boxers all... thank you! I hope your fortune cookie reads: "Business will boom, boom, boom in your busy hands!"
Next...
THIS VENUE GRAND AND VERSATILE WAS OURS TO USE WITH EASE AND STYLE.
Sonia .... good news about the city repairs to your lawn. That fresh square of grass could be just the incentive you need to spend a minute or two mowing that little corner of new life. Dave wants to know if it's big enough for a putting green.
Thom .... I like the term "Antoninism" in relation to blog addictions - very clever. I believe the line "IT'S NOT YOUR FAULT" is a firmly-repeated phrase from another famous movie (one well worth seeing, by the way).
My favourite from the book is Grandma's because of emotional impact. I'm sure it would send Len into wracking convulsions of sobbing(what doesn't) but you would have to be a pail of slag not to get choked up by: "A thousand prayers were said, A thousand tears were shed, And you can't say "HOW MANY?" Oh oh...tears...into...keyboard... cOmmmmmP utER c0-0-iras- \\.hinnnng,,./
My favorite in the comp book would have to be Heather's:
Grandpa gave me a very special gift; the use of his telescope. I share in his love of Space and because of him, the stars seem a little closer. Thank you for bringing the wonder of the heavens into my life. I hope you get to stand in the Sea Of Tranquility and touch the moon that you loved so much. I love you Grandpa, Heather
That's exactly what I mean, Thom! We all have our favourite journal comments. Yours are light and funny.
I laughed out loud when I read Luke's September 21, 1990 7:51 pm comment: "I kissed a girl yesterday".
Stephen ... if it weren't for your introductory remarks and the effects of tears in your keyboard, you would have taken us to the other emotional extreme with Mom's poignant words. Your use of humour softened the blow. Lucy
The answer to your riddle has to be Campion College, the perfect venue for our Antonini reunion. Thank you Heather, for arranging for us to use these facilities. The fact that "they" gave you Campion without any charge speaks volumes about how highly they regard you. You're one of a kind, Heather, and all the people who work at Campion must feel the same way about you, to trust you with using their college. Thanks also to everyone who set it up and cleaned it up after, and for all the fun & entertainment & clustering! IT WAS ABSOLUTELY PERFECT!
I agree with everyone that Lindsey's gift of the journal entries was fabulous. What a humungous task, Lindsey, and the love & devotion you showed by doing that, touches all of us. Thank you very much. My copy is in my family room, where I can easily pick it up and read a few pages. I find that I very often get something in my eyes!!
Here's one I love: Feb. 15,1995
"What a tribute to our Dad - the amount of love that we shared this week. He taught us so much and believed in us - because of his strength we are strong - because of his love for us we love each other. Thnak you Dad - I love you. Marcia Take care Mom - you are the best! Love you lots, Marcia "
I saved the obituary of my friend's dad who passed away a few months ago. In it they listed all the things they were thankful to their dad for, but most of all "thank you for saying yes to God's gift of seven children, because without each other we would never have the strength to let you go." I keep it in my purse to remind me of the great gift my four children have in each other, though somedays they sure don't seem to realize it! :S
Goodnight, Universe. I like Ed's new approach of covering everybody in one fell swoop.
I love being in the Pacific time zone except when it comes to the blog. All y'all are probably sleeping when it's still (relatively) early out here.
Oh well, I'll leave all y'all with the thought that wherever we are on this (relatively) tiny rock, we're all blasting through the universe at an incomprehensible speed mediated only by our localized gravity and limited perception.
The more I learn, the less I understand. The more knowedgeable I become, the more humble I feel. The older I get, the less it matters.
In my very first post-reunion riddle I did not heed my own warning - PLEASE TAKE CARE! - in identifying the oldest participant in our weekend events.
Freda Schuett holds that honour - hands down. Good eye, BJ! Mom and Christine confirm that Freda is at least 92 years old.
I made assumptions that I should not have made regarding Freda's age. Not very long ago, she and I discussed the writings of Carol Shields and other contributors to the "Dropped Threads" series over Sunday breakfast in Melrose Place. Why did I think such awareness and interest was age-related?
Yes Mary-Ellen - Campion College was our "absolutely perfect" reunion venue.
Your response to this riddle says it all: From place to planning; from preparations to parking; from performances to presentations; from pictures to partying; from purpose to pleasure ... it was ABSOLUTELY PERFECT!
Thank you, Heather, Ed and Deanie for booking this facility, for overseeing its use and for giving it back in proper order.
Here's yet another memory:
THIS FLORAL GIFT BOTH BRIGHT AND BOLD HAD DOUBLE MEANINGS, WE WERE TOLD.
Lorraine ... good luck in your job interviews in Calgary and Moose Jaw. Dave asked me what work you do and I couldn't tell him. In any case, we hope you get the position that fits you best, in the place that you prefer.
Stephen ... did you even say "ouch" when Thom "mistakenly" called you Len and "bared" your obvious claim to Antonini status? I did!
Holly ... "without each other we would never have the strength to let you go" is a truth that applies to a lifetime of separations, small and large. It's a keeper!
Thom ... I know that not-very-round circle of life of which you speak and sing. BTW - thanks for singing Circle of Life at the reunion and for posting it on your blog for easy access.
Good Morning, World I love all the postings since my last reading. Thank you: Holly, for your inspirational quote; Thomas, for your philosophical musings; Lucy, for the riddle correction, your alliterative description of Campion College as the ideal venue, and for your latest riddle. Is the answer Dean's bouquet of flower pens? Love, BJ
Dave - I could use that part of the lawn for a practice putting green. Great idea!
Watch out golfers at the next reunion - I'm going to be practicing!
Sonia
PS - any family member is welcome to come to mine and jenalee's home and gift party which is at my house on Tuesday, Sept 18 at 7ish (Antonini time). Anyone is welcome! Sorry for the short notice, didn't even think of putting that on the blog!
David, Lorraine currently manages the nursing home in Smithers. She started out as a floor nurse in ICU and CCU then moved on to nursing management after getting her master's. She is now in the final throes of completing a second master's in conflict management. A head-hunting firm in Calgary is looking for project managers for a new Cancer initiative. Moose Jaw is looking for a quality improvement consultant. Both would be right up her alley and moving toward what she wants to do. I can write anywhere.
Lucy here ... just passing through on my way to bed.
BJ ... I was thinking of another bold and bright bouquet.
Thom ... thanks for the info on Lorraine's line of work. Project management, conflict resolution and doing consultations for quality improvement sound like huge challenges. Candidates for such positions must be hard to find. Like you say, you can write anywhere - that's for sure!
Sonia ... we won't make Tuesday's party, of course. With regard to your new putting surface, Dave says that a green-side bunker might be in order. How does that fit your yard-scape?
Marty ... are you sure your town isn't big enough for whatever comes its way? That's not what the rest of us are hearing about the fastest growing city in the west.
I can hardly keep up to the Blog - It takes on a new when I now read the entries and see a face to the name. About the flower pens I liked them so much when I came home I went to the store and bought all the supplies that I needed and made my own. I have them in my office and eveytime I use them I think of the reunion!
Our calendar tells us that Bryen Barker is celebrating his 23rd birthday today. Though we haven't met this grand-nephew of ours, we are thinking of him today.
Happy Birthday, Bryen, wherever you are! Here's a toast to you on your special day....cheers! Louise and Dave
Cute quote, Mary-Ellen! The scary reality is that we all know exactly what JoJo Jensen means about becoming a tall, tired, two-year old! Enough said. Lucy
Hi Melissa, Fancy meeting you here on the blog! I know what you mean about being able to put faces with names now. Nice, eh?
How creative of you to go out and buy the supplies to make a bouquet of pen flowers! Which blossoms did you choose for yourself?
Some time ago Deanie gave David and me a supply of pansy-topped pens, complete with the flower pot and dried peas needed to hold them. Her pretty, practical arrangement sits on our kitchen counter right beside our telephone. We use the pens every day.
The bouquet of pansies and daisies that was on the memorabilia table at our reunion was taken from Mom's suite along with her coffee-table diary for all to sign. It made a nice decoration, didn't it?
I am going to have to give you full marks for finding an alternate answer to my latest riddle. Deanie's flower-pen bouquet, a long-ago gift to Mom, was present and in use at Saturday's family gathering. Bold and bright, it served a double purpose - aesthetic and functional.
Now ... do you have my intended answer for another point?
You might be an Antonini if you won't let a puzzle get the best of you. Love, Lucy
Toe Knee ... Heads up, Bro... your daughters may be contacting you for yard work - ideas, implementation and maintenance.
Dave's suggestion about a green-side bunker to complement Sonia's new putting green was not intended to be a make-work project for you. Find something else to do, quick. Lucy
Good morning, World. It is the middle of September already. How did we get here so fast? We have gone from glorious summer to chilly fall in one day. Mary-Ellen, Your quote is so true. If I don't get enough sleep, I am almost dysfunctional. And most of us become quite cranky when we are tired. Why were you going to bed so late? (You don't have to answer that). Lucy, I have tried to think of an alternate answer to your riddle, but am not having much luck. I thought it might be the afghan Carol made for Mom. It has raised flowers all over it, but it doesn't have double meaning unless you mean it is both decorative and useful. If no one else comes up with the answer can you give us another hint? Sonia, The city employees weren't the only ones laughing about your lawn. I laughed out loud when I thought of what it must look like. I am hoping that because it is Saturday there will be lots of postings on the blog. Love, BJ
While floating around in my spaceship I took a detour and wandered into cyberspace. I bumped into this great long blog and discovered a contest about football. After reading carefully through the rules, I figure I am eligible to enter: Rule#1: Anyone is eligible with the exception of Mary-Ellen Brockett who could own Las Vegas if she wished. I am NOT Mary-Ellen Brockett. Rule 9a: You are allowed to pick another team for the Grey Cup other than Saskatchewan only if you live in another country and/or if you are an in-law and/or if you are able to accept defeat graciously. Well, technically I think outer space qualifies as another country, and I am willing to accept defeat graciously. So here is my prediction: East final: Winnipeg/Toronto West Final: Sask/BC Eastern winner: Winnipeg Western winner: BC Grey Cup Winner; BC 21-Winnipeg 20 Love, Betjorian, the alien from Zyblog PS. It seems the blogger whose posting I landed on is someone named BJ. I guess you will have to send my prize to her so I can successfully receive it. And as I am a warrior in my world, it would be interesting to have a miniature of one of your world's warriors. Thanking you in advance, Betjorian.
What a great honor it is to have an Extraterrestrial take part in my contest. You ARE eligible and I have recorded your submission. I will follow your orders if you win.
Thank You
P.S. We, the family, here on earth, are not not surprised that you would be associated with our BJ. We have always known that she is a little bit "Out There".
You may not believe this but an alien has invaded your computer. AND...Get this...it is not true what they say about higher intelligence. This alien entered my contest through your post and actually picked BC over Sask for the Cup.
Although this prediction is highly unlikely, if she...uh...he...uh...it...uh...thislife form happens to win, I must send the painting to you. I would suggest that you follow orders and deliver the prize as we never know what these creatures are capable of. I will leave it in your hands.
BJ, I think you're right about plenty of blog postings today especially since Sask will be kicking Calgary's butt starting at 1 p.m. (PT).
I don't know about allowing this Betjorian character into the contest. Aside from the obvious of picking B.C. (spit), it sounds like a thinly-veiled attempt at cheating.
By all means, good luck, Thom! Will you wait until Lorraine gets word on her job interview before you apply? One look at your resume and Calgary is likely to scoop you up. Luce
This Betjorian character is suspiciously like BJ. Now I seem to be getting interference from a being called Lobakabu. This alien desire to enter Marty's football competition could really get out of hand. What's the rule here? Louise Barbara Kathleen Butcher
This was not Dave's year to win the Bing Crosby Cup competition for golfers over 60 - far from it. A 75-year old took the top prize for the second year in a row.
However, Dave and his partner, John, did win their match today against the Royal and Ancient pairing. I'm not sure whether the Town or the R&A won the day. Dave and John are still out celebrating their personal victory.
What's happening to the Green and White? With no play-by-play available I'm just getting CBC Sports highlights on my computer. Are we still trailing Calgary 7 - 1? Go Riders!! Can you hear me? Lucy
Hmm-mm-mm! Strange about Betjorian and Lobakabu - those weird alien creatures. Now, I seem to be getting cyber interference from an alien named MEB. This creature seems to want in on the M.A.S. Miniature contest. What's the rule here, Marty, as LOuise BArbara KAthleen BUtcher so appropriately asked?
Marty, I am shocked that aliens have invaded our blog, and especially that the first one did it through my Google account. I guess firewalls and virus scans don't mean much to extraterrestrials. I am even more dismayed that the creep has inspired other aliens to horn in on our contest. What to do? You may have to create additional rules. Please keep me posted. I'll abide with whatever you decide. Love, BJ (with apologies for my unwanted guest).
I think the answer to the riddle is the bouquet of roses Grandma had been given at the reunion. Instead if the traditional dozen, I think she recieved 16: 15 red ones and 1 yellow one (right?).
Yes, Holly Aunt Barbara's lovely bouquet of roses can been seen in several of our reunion pictures. (At one point on Saturday afternoon, Braden was fascinated with the flowers and leaves.)
Barbara sent Mom the bouquet from herself and her children with their wishes for a happy family reunion. Barbara explained that the fourteen red roses represented Mom's children and their love; the single yellow rose stood for Mom and the hope that fills her life.
The stunning roses arrived just minutes before Mom was leaving her suite for Saturday's party. We took them with us then, and transferred them to the reception at the Cathedral the next day.
Thanks to Barbara and her family, Mom had 15 fresh roses from heaven that weekend. (St. Teresa always get some of the credit when roses of any kind arrive at Suite 403! I'm sure that's what Barbara had in mind when she selected those beauties.)
Now....moving on...
THIS CLEAR AND REALISTIC VIEW IS A COMMUNION PICTURE TOO.
Today, a favorite memory of Mom came flitting into my mind. Some pretty wonderful feelings came with it and I got thinking I'd love to hear what favorite memories the rest of you have about our Mom. Here's mine.
About 30+ years ago when my son was about 4, he phoned Grandma from Calgary one March day, to ask her if she would make him a St. Patrick's Day Rice Krispie cake. Mom, with her Grandma-love said, " Of course, I will." She thought she was talking to one of her Regina Grandsons. Then in the course of the conversation, she discovered it was Martin. Guess what she did? She made him a shamrock-shaped cake, decorated and surrounded with green candies and green Smarties, and popped it in the mail! Martin got his St. Patrick's Day cake a couple of days later and was thrilled! He sure knew he was loved and the cake was quickly devoured ( by all of us ). I was extremely touched by Mom's humor & love at that time and ,thinking about it again, I am once more, very touched. What a girl! Thanks again Mom. I love you.
How about a 60+ memory. Before the era of Rice Krispie cakes, Mom used to decorate regular birthday cakes and then make animals to place around them. She made them with toothpicks and gumdrops; toothpicks for arms legs and necks, gumdrops for torsos, heads, feet and other body parts. I loved them and thought she was the smartest Mom in the world. (I still think she's pretty smart). Love, BJ
Lucy, I use violets for my flower pens, and I used Back Fishtank rocks in lue of peas. The bouquet of Violets are Purple, Yellow, White and Wine, and a puprle rose and the funny thing is there are 14 flowers in the bouquet. (not done on Purpose)
Marty... how could you call that cute red-headed kid, ugly? He is perfectly angelic in his first-communion suit and bow tie. Only you could get away with a remark like that, since you are that kid and the painting of the old house is yours. And another riddle is solved!
Congratulations on re-creating our large family home with its uneven blinds, unfinished flower boxes, ornately supported awning, rough stucco finish and overgrown yard. It's all so real that I can feel myself opening that aluminum storm door, entering the veranda and being home again.
You had so much else to think about in preparation for our reunion and yet you found time to paint the old house and make it part of Lindsey's journal compilation. Thank you for sharing your artistic talents with us in this way.
The memories are priceless:
WITH SMILING FACES, MATCHING CLOTHES, WE COULD STRIKE THE PERFECT POSE.
Nice cake, Lorraine, candied carrots and all ... those number candles sure make birthday wishes easier to realize. I'm sure that you put 41 out with a single blow. Easy peasy ... as Thom would say.
Thanks for sharing this special day in such a visual way, Thom! Luce
Lucy again... ME ... I love the story about Martin's St. Patrick's Day cake arriving in the mail. Its one rice-krispie cake tale in a million, I'm sure - and, like the cake itself, well worth savoring.
BJ ... I remember Mom's gum-drop animals but it took your description of them to bring them back to mind 60 years after the fact. I may just go out and buy some toothpicks and gum-drops to see if I recall how those creatures were assembled. What fun!
Melissa ... with 14 flower pens you will never be without an implement for writing a quick memo or for recalling a reunion memory.
Goodness ... one more birdie and Tiger will match last night's Rough Rider points at -22! What a golfer.
What a beautiful poem, Auntie Louise. It reminds me as a mom that the most important memories are the smallest touches, not my greatest accomplishments (like getting all the the laundry in the house done - still haven't quite managed that one - I'm always about 2 loads away.) I think I'll print that poem out and put it up in the kitchen to remind me of the kind of mom I want to be.
By the way, I think the answer to the riddle is the denim picture of all the sibs - it turned out great (and the denim was a great idea, since everyone's got it, and it's kind of like a neutral too).
Good eye on my latest riddle, Holly... Nothing is perfect... but our family photo in denim and white is about as good a picture as a group of 15 people could expect.
Four elements led to this pleasing outcome: 1. Costumes...without pressure, Marcia asked each of us to wear denim and white in any combination. 2. Staging ...an upstairs room in Campion College provided a plain backdrop. In that setting, Marcia used some professional advice that she had received, to arrange us for a large-group photo. 3. Photographers ...Bob Barker set up his camera on a tripod, centered it and took several shots to get the best picture possible. Others took back-up shots for good measure. 4. Subjects ...what can I say? Look at those smiles, look at those eyes!
Thanks, folks, on all four counts! I know that this family photo will be proudly displayed wherever a copy exists.
Here's more to remember:
THOUGH THEY CAME AT MOM'S REQUESTS, FIVE COULD BE DAD'S SPECIAL GUESTS.
Hey Marty, I am your long-lost 2nd cousin, twice-removed. I just heard about your contest and would like to participate. Having lived in Wyoming all my life, I know very little about the CFL, but here are my predictions: Eastern final: Winnipeg/Toronto Western final: Calgary/Edmonton Winner of East: Winnipeg Winner of West: Calgary Winner of Grey Cup: Calgary with a score of 39-36. As I have Native American blood in me, I would love a painting of one of my people riding a horse. Sincerely, Benjee Tall Walker, son of your late relative who moved south to the Great American West many, many moons ago. PS: By now you know where to send my picture. Just address it in care of you-know-who and she will see that I get it.
Gee Marty, Isn't it funny that as soon as there is something to be gained, all sorts of imposters, wannabees and hangers-on start coming out of the woodwork. We can probably tolerate their appearance, since the prize is so attractive, but I think if any of them win, we have to disqualify them on grounds of illegal access to the blog. I am sure most of the other contestants will agree to this. Love, BJ P.S. I am particularly incensed that it is through my address that they snuck in.
Sonia, don't give up! It's easy Use the new grass as a temporary green while you build the new one. Here's what you'll need: Base: impermeable geotextile clear stone 4" drainage tile washed sand Root zone: 80% sub-angular,non-calcareous sand 20% organic matter(compost, peat etc.) Surface: Canada # 1 Agrostis palustris Huds(creeping bentgrass) Irrigation: backflow preventer 1" pvc 1/2" poly pipe valve controller gear drive rotors Size: 10,000 sq ft(if you want to certify it with the USGA) Once you have your supplies,let me know and I'll tell you how to put it together. It shouldn't take your dad more than a couple of days.
I am sorry that these, so called, imposters are running rampant on the blog, and that they are using your site for access. I checked with my lawyer and the sad true is... I DID say that anyone is eligible and I cannot prove that these people/creatures DON'T exist and they did make predictions, so I must honor their actions and send the prizes to your address if they should happen to win. I am so sorry the inconvenience it has caused you but you are my sister and I know you'll understand.
Thank you for your patients...uh, patience, rather.
WOW STEPHEN! Sonia, sounds like you have someone who knows what he's doing.I loved his list of what you need; incredible!! Thanks Stephen, I'm still enjoying!
Holly, Good guess and nice comments!
Lucy, your poem was beautiful Thank you.
BJ, I'm getting a little suspicious of all these imposters, wannabees etc. Will you please tell them that Mary Ellen is is the contest and they really don't have much of a chance. Thanks!
Marty, 'Patients' was the right word! Man, you've got some strange contestants to deal with. By the way, how's my Tiger coming along?
Lucy, Thanks for the beautiful poem. Sonia, That's my son. Isn't he great? Marty, Thanks for the reply and your efforts to fix the problem. I am not too worried though, as we all know Mary-Ellen has the prize wrapped up. Is her tiger finished yet? Mary-Ellen, We all know you are going to win, but you don't have to gloat about it! Love, BJ
That's great. I have half that stuff in my garage already, so I am halfway there.
I may have some issues with the neighbours but THEY will have to just deal with it. I may consider giving them a discount on the green fees if they keep their complaints to a minimum.
I'll be in contact, boy did I save on the consulting fee.....well, so far anyways. I am sure there is a family discount anyways right?
Sonia, consulting and design are free for descendants. However, if you need me to oversee the build(highly recommended) we need to arrange transportation and accomdation. With all the relatives looking to use your green maybe they can donate any unused air miles! You'll have to talk to your Uncle Len and Kelly about accomadations, they spoiled me(hosts with mosts). I'd offer to give them some free landscaping advice to stay there again but from what I saw at their place, they don't need any help. Mona would also have to come, she's my horticultural muse and I missed her too much at the reunion to leave her behind again.
Marty, if you need an action shot of a tiger for Mary-Ellen, Mona and the kids and I will meet you at the Toronto Zoo and we'll dangle the boy over the rail. If neither of us get the shot, well...there's always Emily
I painted Mary Ellen's tiger...well not really HER tiger...well not really A tiger. Actually, I painted a baby Canadian Lynx. It will be 2nd or 3rd prize, depending on how good my next painting will be.
Hey Thomas
Can you give me your email again so I can post a photo of the little guy?
Contest Update: 16 contestants: (alphabetically) Betjorian, BJ, BobBarker, Bob Brockett, Dave, Ed, Holly, Lorraine, Louise, Lyndsey, Marcia, Mary Ellen, Mike, Stephen, Thomas and Tricia.
Ciao Martino, letta me innaduze myself, Ima Livenza Friuli Pinzano a gooda friend ofa your brodder. Eduardo he letta me usa heesa compute eh I makea heem a offer he can no refuse. Eduardo, he's a tella me you painta da peech, he's a say Ima can ween da peech. I canna guessa da foodaball weeners. Ima somatime alucky. If ima ween Ima wanna you paint a peech of a bellino signora, Ima wanna da moona spark ina her eye ana bello smila ona her lip. I guessa now.
numero uno: Winnipeg BC numero due a: Montreal Winnipeg numero due b: Calgary BC numero tre : Winnipeg numero quattro: BC numero cinque: Winnipeg 32 BC 19
Eh Martino, you senda da peech to Eduardo Ima can no leave my addresse. Soma peep, they looka for me.
I am siamese if you please I am siamese if you don't please I pick Stamps and Montreal for Grey Cup In the west Calgary and the Saskatchewan Winnipeg and Montreal for final in the east Please observing Montreal will take it all Final scoring being 29-14
Marty, there appears to be a common thread concerning the picks of aliens, household pets, stereotypical Italians etc. I don't think one of them have yet to pick the Green and White. I would hate to think that these contestants aren't actually real but merely thinly disguised pseudonyms for existing entrants who wish to hedge their bets against the greatest football franchise the universe has ever and will ever know. If this is the case... For Shame!! Perhaps it is time to launch an investigation and root out any and all imposters and...
Marty - I would like a picture of something to do with football?? Do you do sports pictures?
Here is my prediction.
West Final - BC vs Go Riders East Final - Winnipeg vs Montreal Final - Go Riders vs Montreal Winner - Go Riders
Score you ask?? 24 20 (for the Riders of course!!!
I picked this all on my own without reviewing everyone else's guesses, so if I guessed the exact same as someone else, the commissioner of the contest will have to let me know!!
Honestly, this whole contest thing is out of control. Poor Marty. By my count, with all the outlaws and illegals included, we are up to 20 contestants. Marty, I hope you are able to cope with this unruly and inconsiderate crowd. Love, BJ
I am truly shocked and appalled at my cat. Not for using my computer (she's pretty clever) but for picking someone other than the Go Riders. I think she, along with all the other imposters should be immediately bounced from the competition.
This is a young Canadian Lynx. I call it "Waiting" If I were selling this in a show, I would say they are known for ambushing their prey. A young, hungry Lynx way out in the forest spots a possible meal.
But, honestly, this little guy saw a zoo worker and anticipated his 10 am brunch coming.
the lynx got my attention marty, it has mary ellen written all over it, you don't have to call the whole thing off, just give it to her and paint another MSA minature, you never even thought of that did you? what do you think of my idea mary ellen?
if thomas's cat gets a guess, michael "squints" paladora antonini (lindsey's cat) is gonna guess too.
west semi - b.c. east semi - toronto west final - sask. east final - winnipeg grey cup - sask. 29 winnipeg 27
Wait a minute, you guys! I want to win the Lynx, fair & square. So, Marty, leave the contest as it is. I think I'm going to win any way! If by some chance I don't win, I have a few M.S.A.s hanging up right here in my house, that will definitely soften the blow. In fact if I never win another prize of any kind, I still consider myself the luckiest art owner in the world. There's also an auction coming up and I'm once again hoping to have another Martin Antonini original. So, everybody and their cats, etc. are still in the running for that fabulous Lynx.
If anyone is worried about all these "shifty characters" entering the contest or if you may think I am overwhelmed by the numbers...have no fear.
I have my system well managed and I also have a special catagory for our "friends" so I even encourage people to create...uh...invite... their "friends to join in.
I am Luigi Paolo Pinzano , older brodder to Livenza and Terza. You brodder Eduardo he make us alaugh. We show up ata his place, we looka for Livenza, he tink we Jehovah Wit, we laugh so hard then he say Mormon? We laugh again, but now he tink mafia, dis we laugh hardes at. We jus brodders looking for Livenza, hes in a bigga troub. He makea big batch kneeock and no clean isa mess. Momma she send me ana Terza to find. Eduardo, he invita us in isa kitch, I see da peech on da wall, you painta da peech? He no wanna sell say belong to wife. He tella me i canna win a peech. I lova da football me ana Terza we go every game. Terza he no watch jus watch cheer girls. Ouch, scuse Martino, Terza jus slap me, be righta back. Ok. Terza out of the ouse. I makea my guess:
Marty I just saw you Painting on Thom's Blog WOW!! It looks Like a photo rather than a painting its amazing!! I will have my Football guess in before Friday. I'm trying to educate myself before I guess so it will be more of a educated guess rather than a stab in the dark.
Marty, Ken this bruver, your Canadian Lynx would be awfy popular in Scotland. Dave and I are travelling to Aberdeen today. Maybe we'll meet a Scot or two that would like a richt guid chance to win a prize in this fitba' pool. We'll get back to you! No blether, Lucy
Whoa, I love all these aliens climbing aboard our blog. They add some spice to our contest. Those crazy Italians have me laughing out loud, and I wonder what those Aberdonians are going to come up with. I'll be watching closely and hope to see some more contestants soon. Love, BJ
Cap'n Jack here! Me saucy wench Sonia were tellin this gentleman o' fortune 'bout yer "contest".
Shiver me timbers! Aye! Me be a lily-livered football salt. Me picks be a wee posy as me pillaged a sack o' grog this fine mornin, er, well, me beenst splicin the mainbrace all day! I be loaded to the gunwales....
Me thinks me in the runnin fer the booty. Me hear the matey do's a fine trade paintin! Me likes the snap o' the briny deep be in fine order fer this sea dog's shipshape crow's nest.
Aaarrrr, I be placin the black spot on the scallywag sprog that plunder me treasure from under me nose. Me ship yer down to Davy Jones locker if me donts get the booty.
Me hears yer all a darlin lot of landlubber, aye, but me be a pirate on the account.
Avast! Me addled picks....
Arrrrr West - BC 'gainst SK Arrrrr East - Winnipeg 'gainst Montreal
the big swashbluckin! SK gainst' the Winnipeg scoundrels 32 - 24.
(aaarrrr me be walkin the plank to the Fiddlers Green if me picks against me fellow sailors!)
Yo-ho-ho me countin me doubloons already!
Fair Winds me hearties!!! grog and grub be callin me name
23 contestants: (alphabetically) Benjee Tall Walker, Betjorian, BJ, Bob Barker, Bob Brockett, Dave, Ed, Holly, Jack, Livenza, Lorraine, Louise, Luigi Pinzano, Lyndsey, Marcia, Mary Ellen, Mike, Paladora, Sonia, Spirit, Stephen, Thomas and Tricia.
The Contest head official(me) has decided to split the contest into 2 catagories:
Catagory 1 (Eligible for 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes only): 16 contestants: (alphabetically) BJ, Bob Barker, Bob Brockett, Dave, Ed, Holly, Lorraine, Louise, Lyndsey, Marcia, Mary Ellen, Mike, Sonia, Stephen, Thomas and Tricia.
Catagory 2 (Eligible for booby...uh, special prize only): 7 contestants: (alphabetically) Benjee Tall Walker, Betjorian, Jack, Livenza, Luigi Pinzano, Paladora, Spirit.
Mary-Ellen and Bob, Please pass our birthday greetings on to Hannah-Lynn who is four years old today. We know that you will be celebrating this special day with her and her family.
A toast to joy in Hannah-Lynn's life! Love, Louise and David
Ima momma Pinzano you no lissen my boys. Dey good boys but no angels. Letta me tell you old story about Pinzano boys ana de peech. Longa time ago, hundreds years. A younga boy fall ina love wit Lisa Pinzano, a good looking boy is name was Leonardo, Leonardo he paint de peech ona nice peece of canvas for is love Lisa ana he call it Lisa Pinzano, de Pinzano boys no like der sister Lisa ana clean de bocci balls wit de canvas ana rune the peech. Leonardo he paint another peech for Lisa but disa time he call it Mona Lisa to trick de boys. Lisa smila in de peech cuz she nose de trick. Ha, ha, Martino I kida you. I no wan you give peech to my boys dey no deserv. Livenza he not so bad tru he no clean up hisa mess but he leeve som gnocco for Luigi ana Terza but dey no can shair ana bigga fight happen braka my good spagett bowl. Ima gonna nock some heads when I find. Eduardo he tella me about you contes ana show me da peech in his a kitch. I lika de bird ona de wire he tella me you paint de peech. I tinka you molto bene but you give peech to my boys I nocka you head to.
Hi Lucy Someone told me you had written a poem for Mom so I went back and found it on the 16th. I have just finished copying it(the old-fashioned way) - I think it will be good for her to read it and have it there to reread whenever she wants to feel you near. Thank-you for writing such a lovely tribute. Love, Vic
Oh My Gosh! I just looked at The Three Sisters - gorgeous! BJ loved Canmore when I took her there so I have a feeling that BJ, along with those strange creatures, Benjee Tall Walker and Betjorian ( along with all the other contestants ) are really going to want to win this one.
Marty, QUOTE OF THE DAY: Painting is poetry that is seen rather than felt, and poetry is painting that is felt rather than seen. -Leonardo Da Vinci
Since there are only about 24 more hours to get in to the contest, I will put up the rules one more time so everyone is clear on how it works:
Try to guess-
#1- The two teams that will play in the Grey Cup 2007. Score 5 points for either team guessed correct. Score 20 points for both correct.
#2a- The two teams that will play in the Eastern final. Score 2 points for either team guessed correct. Score 10 points for both correct.
#2b- The two teams that will play in the Western final. Score 2 points for either team guessed correct. Score 10 points for both correct.
#3- who will win Eastern Final- 15 points.
#4- who will win Western Final- 15 points.
#5a- who will win The Grey Cup- 30 points. (actual team).
All answers answered correctly total 100 points.
#6- YOU MUST POST A FINAL SCORE OF THE GREY CUP GAME. (This will determine a winner in case of a tie). If more than 2 people tie, placing will be determined by closest to the final score.
We hope you get double the wishes and twice the fun as you celebrate together - topped off with two servings of dessert! Vic's brief return to Saskatoon is sure to be the icing on those birthday cakes.
We'll be toasting you with Bruichladdich from Islay, Don and we'll have a night cap of Ocean Spray Cranberry Classic in your honour, Logan. Cheers to both of you! Love, Louise and David
I'm yer desperate Dan from Dundee Wi' fitba' predictions fer ye. Aye, 'tis Butchers who met me; Thegither we had tea An' blethered away 'alf the dee.
The three lassie Bens I wud woo An' the wee cat wud be richt sweet too. But I'd never be crabbit (Tho' 'tis ever my 'abit) If ye painted a broon Highland coo!
Och, aye.. West: Coo Toun Stampeders vs Rough Riders East: Blue Bombers vs. Alouettes Western Winner: Coo Toun Eastern Winner: Blue Bombers Grey Cup Winner: COO TOUN! 35 - Blue Bombers 31
Desperate Dan, (bes' ken fer pickin' up a coo with one 'and!)
Ed ... I'ma lova da Pinzano family. Ifa dey winna de peech I tink dey might learna to shair.
Vic ... thanks for copying my verse for Mom. When I read it to her over the telephone, she actually remembered the "warm-milk" night I recalled in the closing lines.
ME ... keep those quotes coming. They fit perfectly wherever you slip them in.
Marty ... it's great that we get to view the football contest prizes on Thom's blog site. We are all winners that way.
Sonia ... your yard is becoming a blog legend. To think that it all started with a dysfunctional mower!
Wow Marty, The 3 sisters painting is awesome!! I can hardly wait for the Grey Cup to be played so we can see who will win. Mary-Ellen is right. I do want to win this one. Of course, I want to win them all. Just call me Greedy Guts! Lucy , Sonia and Eduardo, Desperate Dan, Pirate Jack and the Pinzano family deserve to win just for the sheer cleverness of their submission. Love them all. Vic, Have a great time with your family this weekend. They will be so happy to have you there for the birthdays. Happy birthday, Don and Logan. Good morning, World. Love, BJ
I have to say...the submissions from the aliens, illegle aliens and other creatures are far beyond innovative, interesting and just plain artistic. I truly am the winner here. Thank you, Thank you. I have only one prize to give for y'all but y'all deserve a prize whether you win the contest or not. I commend you for entertaining our blog with such sweet clever.
I'm really thinking of putting my computer out on the roof tonight to see if I can get someone or something to invade my files.
You forgot to mention the originals...Betjorian and Benjee Tall Walker. They deserve all lot of credit for their talent and once agin...openin' a can o' worms.
Lucy, I knew you could write poetry, but I had no idea that there was a Desperate Dan in your life, who could write such supberb Scottish verse. WOW & DOUBLE WOW!!
'Tis Ness from the Loch signin' in; Ogopogo, ye ken, is me kin. She's a greet fitba' fan Guid B.C is 'er clan So wur bettin' 'er Lions'll win.
Tho' ye park 'lang the shore in yer RV Ye'll not e'er git a glimpse of oor party. But if we win yer paintin' All the world'll be faintin' When we pose fer a picture fer Marty.
'Ere, ye go then: West: B.C. vs Sask East: Winnipeg vs Montreal Western winner: BC Eastern winner: Winnipeg Grey Cup winner: B.C. 32, Winnipeg 27
Maaartteeee.... You'll not remember me, but a lonnng time ago, in the Darke Hall of Regina, I haunted you at night when you practised the piano after purposely getting yourself locked in. I loved listening to you on the piano and kept the night watchman from interrupting you. After you left and moved to Calgary, I followed you and discovered the beautiful mountains in the area. By a very strange coincidence, I decided to let my spirit reside in and wander through the range that contains the Three Sisters. I am therefore very anxious to win this exquisite painting. My predictions. Grey Cup Teams BC and Montreal Eastern final Montreal/Winnipeg Western final BC and SK Easterm winner Montreal Western winner BC Grey Cup Game BC 33, Montreal 31 Eerily yours, BoootleJoose, the former Ghost of the Darke Hall
Holy cow, Lucy. How do you do that? I love your Scottish brogue and dialog, and how appropriate to have Nessie and Ogopogo team up to win the contest. Good luck. Also, good luck to all the other contestants. Whoever wins it, this contest has been a great ride for all of us. Way to go Blogteams. Love, BJ
Woohoo! "Tricia's Trotters" have raised over $4000 for Light the Night! We've got one week to hit and surpass $5000! We can do it! Ring those phones! Ring those phones! (Is that just a Saskatchewan reference?)
Eh Martino, you may be ask a why Papa Pinzano no enta you conates. Tree year Papa es a no longer wit us. I tella you whata hap. Papa es a good a man good a papa for our tree boy. Papa es a harda work alla es a life e mixa da terazz chip ana grinda da floor. Age a catcha up to im. I alway worry bout isa hart. Papa e lova to fly da kite. e say I go fly da kite. I say ow you fly da kite wit a no wind. e say I no needa da wind. Papa e runna backa ana forta backa ana forta it a make a me worry is hart beat too fas. I say PAPA!!! YOU LISSEN YOU HART. Papa say I canna ear my art it a say I LOVA MAMA PINZANO. Dat a papa e is a so sweet. I make a big sup for papa ana boys spagett ana meat a ball. Luigi e alway eat to fas forgeta to chew da meat ball an it get a stuck ina troat. Luigi choke an choke Terza it im wit fry pan on a da back ana meat ball shoot out isa mout. papa try to catch. No wanna waste da food. Papa bumpa es a head ona da tabl ana no wake up. Now Papa is a up ina eaven fly da kite wit Jesus ana is Papa.
Official Rules are found at Blog # Sept 20, 2007 9:52pm.
Here are the prizes: Prizes for:
1st place (most accumulated points)
A miniature original M.S.A. painting with a beautiful $10.00 frame.(Subject matter: Your choice) Artist's value: $100-$300.
2nd place
A miniature original M.S.A. painting with a beautiful $5.00 frame.(Subject matter: Artist's choice). Young Lynx Artist's value: $250.00
3rd place
A miniature original M.S.A. painting, unframed, sent to you in a courier envelope. (Subject matter: Artist's choice). The Three Sisters Artist's value: $150.00
2nd and 3rd place prizes can be viewed at b@bigdog.
Catagory 1: Contestants eligible for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes only: 23 contestants: (alphabetically) Amy, BJ, Bob Barker, Bob Brockett, Campbell, Dave, Ed, Holly, Kelly, Len, Lorraine, Louise, Lui.jr., Luke, Lyndsey, Marcia, Mary Ellen, Melissa, Mike, Sonia, Stephen, Thomas and Tricia.
Catagory 2: Contestants eligible for one special (sur)prize only: 10 contestants: (alphabetically) Benjee Tall Walker, Betjorian, Boootlejoose, Desperate Dan, Jack, Livenza, Luigi Pinzano, Nessieogopogo, Paladora, and Spirit.
530 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 400 of 530 Newer› Newest»Happy Birthday, Jenalee!
You know you're an Antonini when you wake up wondering WHO in your family is celebrating WHAT special occasion today.
Our calendar tells us that this is your 21st birthday. Ahhh, 21! We toast your good health and happiness. Cheers!
Lots of love, Louise and David
Yes on one count; nice try on the other, BJ ...
Ellie was the youngest person to take part in family events during our reunion weekend. She was just a few days shy of her first birthday on August 30th.
Ellie graced us with her presence on three of the four days, (missing only Monday's golf tournament, for obvious reasons).
However, at the other end of the spectrum comes Marj Gunn who celebrated her 90th birthday in February. (Tricia's Tides entry of February 22, 2007 gives a brief but vivid account of the party that Tricia herself managed to attend in honour of her Great-aunt Marj).
Mrs. Gunn came to Sunday's reception in the basement of Holy Rosary Cathedral. She spent a bit of time with Mom and then mingled with the rest of us, a few of whom she taught at Sacred Heart Academy half a century ago!
So, that Sunday afternoon in August there was a 90 year spread from the youngest to the oldest person in our midst!
In the same vein....
BIRTHDAYS FELL - THE RECORD STATES -
ON TWO OF FOUR REUNION DATES.
Love, Lucy
Here's an easy one for you Lucy:
THESE THREE WIVES AT HOME THEY STAYED
AT TAYLOR FIELD THEIR HUSBANDS PLAYED
Good Morning the world,
That should cover everybody (sorry to any of you who think you're aliens). I'm here to answer Lucy's riddle.
Aug. 26...Piper McDonald
Aug. 27...Lou Antonini
Had to check for Piper's.
Off to work.
Tricia: Hey Kenneth I will email you details but I'll definitely have time to see you in Austin in Oct
That's fantastic! Can't wait.
So what the heck is "chialer"?
"Chialer" is slang meaning cry, complain, whine. "Me chialer" means to whine/complain to me, or verbally harass me about.
Very funny, Stephen!
I'm going to guess that Lorraine, Johanne and Mona missed the Taylor Field play of Thomas, Kenneth and you. In fact, didn't we all? I'll bet your wives have heard no end of that story (and more), though.
It goes without saying that we wish Mona, Lorraine and Joanne could have been in Regina with us to share in the fun of our reunion weekend. Maybe next time?
LOLOL, Lucy
Good eye, Ed!
Piper was celebrating her first birthday back home in Ontario while we were eating birthday cake at our Sunday gathering at Holy Rosary Cathedral. Thanks to Bob's family tree, several of us made note of this special day in Piper's life.
The next day, Lui marked his 59th birthday by playing a reunion round of golf on the Regina Beach Course. Though he won a few prizes himself, he gave more than he received. Typical, eh?
How about this one?
EACH OF US RECEIVED A TAG...
AND THREE OF THEM REVEALED A GAG.
LOLOL, Lucy
Louise - Lucy
Ed - Edweirdo
Tony - can't remember exactly but I think it had something to do with his knee
Is it Toe Knee Ant Toe Knee Knee for a third of a point?
stephen - its "toe knee" "and toe knee knee" - lui's briliant concoction.
luce - i love to see you riddling again, i remember something going on at the cabin friday, i know marty had his big toe stuck in the middle of it, something to do with tricking the above mentioned nephew about who's who. am i close?
Yes, Stephen
Luckily, Marcia had the wisdom, creativity and time to make each of us a name tag to wear throughout the reunion weekend.
Thanks, Marcia, ...those identifying badges were helpful in many ways as we 100+ relatives mixed and mingled. The tags not only revealed names but they defined relationships and made family connections easy.
Stephen, you have correctly identified the three name tags that were double-sided.
Obviously, Marcia couldn't resist posting my newly-acquired nickname, Ed's weird moniker, and the anatomical references Lou "concocted" for remembering our eldest brother's name. You added humour to our day by not remembering "toe knee and toe knee knee". Still, I'm awarding you full marks for your response to this riddle!
Here's another ...
WE WERE MEANT TO EAT THESE BEADS
WHICH NUMBERED WELL BEYOND OUR NEEDS.
Love and laughter, Lucy
Thom and Mike ... thanks for pitching in on Stephen's answer to my latest riddle. Good eyes, guys!
I had to award Stephen full marks for facts and fun. I'll give each of you a third of a point, too, for putting enough joints in accurate order to complete the puzzle.
Luce
Luce, you are, of course referring to the giant rice krispies cake rosary. It was indeed quite impressive and fitting in light of the hundreds of configurations we've seen over the years.
Did Grandma pray on it, by the way?
Thom, I think you'll get this pretty easily, so let some other bloggers take a shot at it first
Alright, I'll pretend like I know it and let somebody else get it.
And don't worry about your blog addiction. I just checked the latest research on addiction and the blog is now classified as the most addictive thing there is for persons with a specific genetic condition known as Antoninism. In other words, IT'S NOT YOUR FAULT.
Good evening world. This is the first chance I've had to post today and I see we are out of control again. I love it.
Lucy,
I think you owe me full points for my answer to your riddle. Frieda Schuett is at least 92 and maybe even 93, so that would make her the oldest person at our Sunday event. Of course, she isn't related to us, but she was present. And I love it that you are riddling again.
Stephen,
You might be an Antonini! Thomas,
Good answer to Stephen re: his addiction.
Love, Mom (BJ)
whaddya mean might
Yep, you're an antonini, all right.
Mom
Yes, Len, I mean Stephen, I would say of mom's three boys you definitely have the most obvious claim to Antonini status.
Well, BJ,
You have tripped me up on my very first post-reunion riddle. I have not yet checked on Freda's age and I'm still finding it hard to believe that she is older than our mother. Give me a bit more time to do some research. I promise to get back to you on this one. In the meantime, I'll hold your half-marks in reserve.
Love, Lucy
Thom ... I love your comments about the "impressive and fitting" rice krispie cake rosary that Louise, Steve and Ed created for Saturday's family gathering.
Think of it ... there were 15 decades, 169 ice-cream-scoop beads, a hand-shaped cross and medal, strands of red shoe-string licorice, pink icing highlights, fresh roses and smarties galore. Imagine the hours of work that went into designing, creating and assembling this edible rosary!
Thank you, Louise, Steve and Ed. Though it took us no time at all to devour your cake, we will never forget our first view of your colourful masterpiece spread out on that long, white table. Of course, we have great pictures to help us remember, too.
Funny you should ask if Mom prayed on the rosary, Thom. As she was admiring the cake, someone in the background called out, "Don't stop to pray on it, now" and everyone laughed. She never did get back to do so. I know that I said a Hail Mary as I was eating my bead. How about you?
The practicality of this cake matched its beauty. It made a magnificent centerpiece, the ready-to-serve portions exceeded the number of people present, the pieces were accessible to even the smallest in our crowd and it was every Antonini's favourite dessert.
As you say, Thom, we have seen hundreds of rice krispie configurations over the years. This was truly the best way that we could have honoured the woman who created most of them!
And now, its time for yet another riddle....
THIS DIGEST OF SOME TWENTY YEARS
WILL STIR UP MEMORIES, JOYS AND TEARS.
Love, Lucy
I believe you are referring to Lindsey's compilations of the journals.
You are right on the mark, Stephen!
On Saturday, August 25, Lindsey overwhelmed us with the presentation her spiral-bound Antonini Family Journal 1986-2007. Her two-year project of "reading, cutting, scanning and organizing a compilation of journal entries" is her priceless reunion gift to us.
Thank you, Lindsey, for giving us back some of "the immense love that was shared over the years" in such a concise, attractive format. We will treasure the personal copies you presented to us at our family gathering. Mine is on the coffee table in the front room of our St. Andrews home.
As we read through the reflections of the years, different quotations are sure to move us to laughter and to tears. To date, my favourite entry has to be Betty-Jo's August 1, 2002 comment:
"Family - what a wonderful world!"
Ahh...the memories just keep on coming and they are so good.
A FAMILY MEAL - RIGHT TO ITS SOURCE -
WITH FORTUNES, FUN AND FOOD, OF COURSE!
LOLOL, Lucy
You have a few others answering your riddles now Lucy. Stephen has become a regular on the blog and quick on the riddles. This one is the meal from the Wok Box. Holly Davidson lead the way and Tony's family helped her with the set up and kept watch. The fortune cookies were also a hit.
Darn, Ed beat me out again!
I am glad the riddles are back too!!
Guess what? The city came out and put some beautiful sod on the part they dug up on my lawn. I am sure they had a great laugh as they layed it yesterday.
Now I have a nice square of lush lawn to mow.
Sonia
Oh yes, Ed,
Saturday's Asian supper catered by the Wok Box, under Holly Davidson's management was a bit of an adventure and a brand new taste for many of us. The food was on-time, hot, plentiful, varied and delicious.
Service, with that family touch, was also outstanding. As the line of people moved along the serving table, Dustin and Keenan kept a close watch on food and supplies (including chopsticks). They made sure that none of us missed out on anything, even when we returned for second helpings!
Earlier in the afternoon, when Dave and I stopped to chat with Dustin, Kelly, Keenan and Holly, they were into the family party, at ease and having fun with the rest of us. You would never have known that they would soon be on deck, serving up a family supper for over 100 people. That's class!
Believe it or not, a day or so later, Mom, David and I had a wonderful meal of Wok Box leftovers from our family supper. Leftovers you ask? How did that happen?
Holly, Dustin, Wok Boxers all... thank you! I hope your fortune cookie reads: "Business will boom, boom, boom in your busy hands!"
Next...
THIS VENUE GRAND AND VERSATILE
WAS OURS TO USE WITH EASE AND STYLE.
Love, Lucy
I'm back again,
Sonia .... good news about the city repairs to your lawn. That fresh square of grass could be just the incentive you need to spend a minute or two mowing that little corner of new life. Dave wants to know if it's big enough for a putting green.
Thom .... I like the term "Antoninism" in relation to blog addictions - very clever. I believe the line "IT'S NOT YOUR FAULT" is a firmly-repeated phrase from another famous movie (one well worth seeing, by the way).
LOLOL, Lucy
My favourite in the compilation book was my brother Stephen's.
Something like:
Grandma, only you would bring a guest book to a place where you are a guest.
Second Fave, Campbell Antonini
I turned 19 today and brought a six-pack over to shotgun with Grandma but she didn't want any so I had to drink it myself.
My favourite from the book is Grandma's because of emotional impact. I'm sure it would send Len into wracking convulsions of sobbing(what doesn't) but you would have to be a pail of slag not to get choked up by:
"A thousand prayers were said,
A thousand tears were shed,
And you can't say "HOW MANY?"
Oh oh...tears...into...keyboard... cOmmmmmP utER c0-0-iras- \\.hinnnng,,./
My favorite in the comp book would have to be Heather's:
Grandpa gave me a very special gift; the use of his telescope.
I share in his love of Space and because of him, the stars seem a little closer.
Thank you for bringing the wonder of the heavens into my life. I hope you get to stand in the Sea Of Tranquility and touch the moon that you loved so much.
I love you Grandpa,
Heather
You go girl!
Love,
Uncle Marty
That's exactly what I mean, Thom! We all have our favourite journal comments. Yours are light and funny.
I laughed out loud when I read Luke's September 21, 1990 7:51 pm comment: "I kissed a girl yesterday".
Stephen ... if it weren't for your introductory remarks and the effects of tears in your keyboard, you would have taken us to the other emotional extreme with Mom's poignant words. Your use of humour softened the blow.
Lucy
Darn it, Marty...now I've got something in my eye...
Lucy
Hi Lucy,
The answer to your riddle has to be Campion College, the perfect venue for our Antonini reunion. Thank you Heather, for arranging for us to use these facilities. The fact that "they" gave you Campion without any charge speaks volumes about how highly they regard you. You're one of a kind, Heather, and all the people who work at Campion must feel the same way about you, to trust you with using their college. Thanks also to everyone who set it up and cleaned it up after, and for all the fun & entertainment & clustering! IT WAS ABSOLUTELY PERFECT!
LOL,
ME xoxoxo
Hi All,
I agree with everyone that Lindsey's gift of the journal entries was fabulous. What a humungous task, Lindsey, and the love & devotion you showed by doing that, touches all of us. Thank you very much. My copy is in my family room, where I can easily pick it up and read a few pages. I find that I very often get something in my eyes!!
Here's one I love: Feb. 15,1995
"What a tribute to our Dad - the amount of love that we shared this week. He taught us so much and believed in us - because of his strength we are strong - because of his love for us we love each other. Thnak you Dad - I love you.
Marcia
Take care Mom - you are the best!
Love you lots,
Marcia "
Gotta go, I've got something in my eyes again!
Love,
ME xoxo
I didn't see Heather's in the book, but I remember her reading it at the funeral and I used it in a short story I wrote after.
Very touching.
Lorraine has job interviews in Moose Jaw and Calgary.
I saved the obituary of my friend's dad who passed away a few months ago. In it they listed all the things they were thankful to their dad for, but most of all "thank you for saying yes to God's gift of seven children, because without each other we would never have the strength to let you go." I keep it in my purse to remind me of the great gift my four children have in each other, though somedays they sure don't seem to realize it! :S
Goodnight, Universe. I like Ed's new approach of covering everybody in one fell swoop.
I love being in the Pacific time zone except when it comes to the blog. All y'all are probably sleeping when it's still (relatively) early out here.
Oh well, I'll leave all y'all with the thought that wherever we are on this (relatively) tiny rock, we're all blasting through the universe at an incomprehensible speed mediated only by our localized gravity and limited perception.
The more I learn, the less I understand. The more knowedgeable I become, the more humble I feel.
The older I get, the less it matters.
Life is a circle, although not very round.
Lucy here,
Blog reading this morning is good for the soul - inspirational at every turn!
Point taken, doubled and awarded, BJ!
In my very first post-reunion riddle I did not heed my own warning - PLEASE TAKE CARE! - in identifying the oldest participant in our weekend events.
Freda Schuett holds that honour - hands down. Good eye, BJ! Mom and Christine confirm that Freda is at least 92 years old.
I made assumptions that I should not have made regarding Freda's age. Not very long ago, she and I discussed the writings of Carol Shields and other contributors to the "Dropped Threads" series over Sunday breakfast in Melrose Place. Why did I think such awareness and interest was age-related?
Love, late-learning Lucy
Yes Mary-Ellen - Campion College was our "absolutely perfect" reunion venue.
Your response to this riddle says it all:
From place to planning;
from preparations to parking;
from performances to presentations;
from pictures to partying;
from purpose to pleasure ...
it was ABSOLUTELY PERFECT!
Thank you, Heather, Ed and Deanie for booking this facility, for overseeing its use and for giving it back in proper order.
Here's yet another memory:
THIS FLORAL GIFT BOTH BRIGHT AND BOLD
HAD DOUBLE MEANINGS, WE WERE TOLD.
Lots of love, Lucy
Lucy again,
Lorraine ... good luck in your job interviews in Calgary and Moose Jaw. Dave asked me what work you do and I couldn't tell him. In any case, we hope you get the position that fits you best, in the place that you prefer.
Stephen ... did you even say "ouch" when Thom "mistakenly" called you Len and "bared" your obvious claim to Antonini status? I did!
Holly ... "without each other we would never have the strength to let you go" is a truth that applies to a lifetime of separations, small and large. It's a keeper!
Thom ... I know that not-very-round circle of life of which you speak and sing. BTW - thanks for singing Circle of Life at the reunion and for posting it on your blog for easy access.
Love, Luce
Good Morning, World
I love all the postings since my last reading. Thank you:
Holly, for your inspirational quote;
Thomas, for your philosophical musings;
Lucy, for the riddle correction, your alliterative description of Campion College as the ideal venue, and for your latest riddle. Is the answer Dean's bouquet of flower pens?
Love, BJ
Dave - I could use that part of the lawn for a practice putting green. Great idea!
Watch out golfers at the next reunion - I'm going to be practicing!
Sonia
PS - any family member is welcome to come to mine and jenalee's home and gift party which is at my house on Tuesday, Sept 18 at 7ish (Antonini time). Anyone is welcome! Sorry for the short notice, didn't even think of putting that on the blog!
Sonia
Hey Sonia
I like your humour girl:
Putting a party on the blog and
Putting a putting green in your yard.
Thatis good. Ha ha ha ha
PS Ever thought of putting a putting party together..
Love,
Uncle Marty
David, Lorraine currently manages the nursing home in Smithers. She started out as a floor nurse in ICU and CCU then moved on to nursing management after getting her master's. She is now in the final throes of completing a second master's in conflict management. A head-hunting firm in Calgary is looking for project managers for a new Cancer initiative. Moose Jaw is looking for a quality improvement consultant. Both would be right up her alley and moving toward what she wants to do. I can write anywhere.
Thomas
Hey Cowboy
This town ain't big enuf for the two of us.
Marty Robbins
A.K.A. The Rawhide kid.
Lucy here ... just passing through on my way to bed.
BJ ... I was thinking of another bold and bright bouquet.
Thom ... thanks for the info on Lorraine's line of work. Project management, conflict resolution and doing consultations for quality improvement sound like huge challenges. Candidates for such positions must be hard to find. Like you say, you can write anywhere - that's for sure!
Sonia ... we won't make Tuesday's party, of course. With regard to your new putting surface, Dave says that a green-side bunker might be in order. How does that fit your yard-scape?
Marty ... are you sure your town isn't big enough for whatever comes its way? That's not what the rest of us are hearing about the fastest growing city in the west.
Love, Luce
My dad is pretty creative, I think I could get a bunker put in, the sand trap is easy - just cover the dirt with sand. I have some trees.....
Sure thing. Bring it on!
Marty, them's fightin' words.
Thommy Hunter
A.K.A. The Sundance Kid
I can hardly keep up to the Blog - It takes on a new when I now read the entries and see a face to the name.
About the flower pens I liked them so much when I came home I went to the store and bought all the supplies that I needed and made my own. I have them in my office and eveytime I use them I think of the reunion!
Hi Everyone,
It's a pretty quiet night on the Blog. I guess most of you are sleeping, which is where I'm now headed.
QUOTE OF THE DAY: ( maybe I should say night )
Without enough sleep, we all become tall two-year olds!
JoJo Jensen
It's almost midnight, so I'd better go and get some of that sleep.
Good Night,
ME xoxoxoxo
Our calendar tells us that Bryen Barker is celebrating his 23rd birthday today. Though we haven't met this grand-nephew of ours, we are thinking of him today.
Happy Birthday, Bryen, wherever you are! Here's a toast to you on your special day....cheers!
Louise and Dave
Cute quote, Mary-Ellen! The scary reality is that we all know exactly what JoJo Jensen means about becoming a tall, tired, two-year old! Enough said.
Lucy
Hi Melissa,
Fancy meeting you here on the blog!
I know what you mean about being able to put faces with names now. Nice, eh?
How creative of you to go out and buy the supplies to make a bouquet of pen flowers! Which blossoms did you choose for yourself?
Some time ago Deanie gave David and me a supply of pansy-topped pens, complete with the flower pot and dried peas needed to hold them. Her pretty, practical arrangement sits on our kitchen counter right beside our telephone. We use the pens every day.
The bouquet of pansies and daisies that was on the memorabilia table at our reunion was taken from Mom's suite along with her coffee-table diary for all to sign. It made a nice decoration, didn't it?
LOL, Louise
BJ ... you are far too observant!
I am going to have to give you full marks for finding an alternate answer to my latest riddle. Deanie's flower-pen bouquet, a long-ago gift to Mom, was present and in use at Saturday's family gathering. Bold and bright, it served a double purpose - aesthetic and functional.
Now ... do you have my intended answer for another point?
You might be an Antonini if you won't let a puzzle get the best of you.
Love, Lucy
Toe Knee ...
Heads up, Bro... your daughters may be contacting you for yard work - ideas, implementation and maintenance.
Dave's suggestion about a green-side bunker to complement Sonia's new putting green was not intended to be a make-work project for you. Find something else to do, quick.
Lucy
Good morning, World.
It is the middle of September already. How did we get here so fast? We have gone from glorious summer to chilly fall in one day.
Mary-Ellen,
Your quote is so true. If I don't get enough sleep, I am almost dysfunctional. And most of us become quite cranky when we are tired. Why were you going to bed so late? (You don't have to answer that).
Lucy,
I have tried to think of an alternate answer to your riddle, but am not having much luck. I thought it might be the afghan Carol made for Mom. It has raised flowers all over it, but it doesn't have double meaning unless you mean it is both decorative and useful. If no one else comes up with the answer can you give
us another hint?
Sonia,
The city employees weren't the only ones laughing about your lawn. I laughed out loud when I thought of what it must look like.
I am hoping that because it is Saturday there will be lots of postings on the blog.
Love, BJ
While floating around in my spaceship I took a detour and wandered into cyberspace. I bumped into this great long blog and discovered a contest about football. After reading carefully through the rules, I figure I am eligible to enter:
Rule#1: Anyone is eligible with the exception of Mary-Ellen Brockett who could own Las Vegas if she wished. I am NOT Mary-Ellen Brockett.
Rule 9a: You are allowed to pick another team for the Grey Cup other than Saskatchewan only if you live in another country and/or if you are an in-law and/or if you are able to accept defeat graciously. Well, technically I think outer space qualifies as another country, and I am willing to accept defeat graciously.
So here is my prediction:
East final: Winnipeg/Toronto
West Final: Sask/BC
Eastern winner: Winnipeg
Western winner: BC
Grey Cup Winner; BC 21-Winnipeg 20
Love, Betjorian, the alien from Zyblog
PS. It seems the blogger whose posting I landed on is someone named BJ. I guess you will have to send my prize to her so I can successfully receive it. And as I am a warrior in my world, it would be interesting to have a miniature of one of your world's warriors. Thanking you in advance, Betjorian.
WOW!!!!
Welcome Betjorian
What a great honor it is to have an Extraterrestrial take part in my contest. You ARE eligible and I have recorded your submission. I will follow your orders if you win.
Thank You
P.S. We, the family, here on earth, are not not surprised that you would be associated with our BJ. We have always known that she is a little bit "Out There".
MSA
Hey BJ
You may not believe this but an alien has invaded your computer.
AND...Get this...it is not true what they say about higher intelligence. This alien entered my contest through your post and actually picked BC over Sask for the Cup.
Although this prediction is highly unlikely, if she...uh...he...uh...it...uh...thislife form happens to win, I must send the painting to you. I would suggest that you follow orders and deliver the prize as we never know what these creatures are capable of. I will leave it in your hands.
Live long and prosper.
Love,
Your little brother always,
Martin
BJ, I think you're right about plenty of blog postings today especially since Sask will be kicking Calgary's butt starting at 1 p.m. (PT).
I don't know about allowing this Betjorian character into the contest. Aside from the obvious of picking B.C. (spit), it sounds like a thinly-veiled attempt at cheating.
Of course, I've always been a bit of a skeptic.
It is indeed my son Bryen's birthday. Hard to believe he's 23 today, I remember when he was just a gleam in my eye.
I am working on a job application for an editor job at the Calgary Sun. Wish me luck.
Okay, BJ...
I'll add another clue to my latest riddle:
THIS FLORAL GIFT BOTH BRIGHT AND BOLD
HAD DOUBLE MEANINGS, WE WERE TOLD.
ITS BLOSSOMS FIT US LIKE A GLOVE -
ONE STOOD FOR HOPE, THE REST FOR LOVE.
Lucy
By all means, good luck, Thom! Will you wait until Lorraine gets word on her job interview before you apply? One look at your resume and Calgary is likely to scoop you up.
Luce
This Betjorian character is suspiciously like BJ. Now I seem to be getting interference from a being called Lobakabu. This alien desire to enter Marty's football competition could really get out of hand. What's the rule here?
Louise Barbara Kathleen Butcher
How about that Tiger Woods!
This was not Dave's year to win the Bing Crosby Cup competition for golfers over 60 - far from it. A 75-year old took the top prize for the second year in a row.
However, Dave and his partner, John, did win their match today against the Royal and Ancient pairing. I'm not sure whether the Town or the R&A won the day. Dave and John are still out celebrating their personal victory.
Sonia ... how's the practice area shaping up?
Love, Lucy
What's happening to the Green and White? With no play-by-play available I'm just getting CBC Sports highlights on my computer. Are we still trailing Calgary 7 - 1? Go Riders!! Can you hear me?
Lucy
Luce, no, we're now trailing 14-1. YIKES!
Check that, 21-1.
28-1
What the hell is wrong with us????
Oh no ... 21 to 1. Should I stop checking?
Luce
This is all happening too fast for me to keep up here in Scotland!
Luce
Finally, something good.
28-8
Hmm-mm-mm!
Strange about Betjorian and Lobakabu - those weird alien creatures. Now, I seem to be getting cyber interference from an alien named MEB. This creature seems to want in on the M.A.S. Miniature contest. What's the rule here, Marty, as LOuise BArbara KAthleen BUtcher so appropriately asked?
Whoops! M.S.A not M.A.S. That alien is confused!!!
Ok, that's what we needed, a pick off and quick td to start the second half.
28-15
Go Riders!
What a relief! We're back in the picture. Go Riders!
we're doomed, it's so depressing i can hardly watch
Marty,
I am shocked that aliens have invaded our blog, and especially that the first one did it through my Google account. I guess firewalls and virus scans don't mean much to extraterrestrials. I am even more dismayed that the creep has inspired other aliens to horn in on our contest. What to do? You may have to create additional rules. Please keep me posted. I'll abide with whatever you decide.
Love, BJ (with apologies for my unwanted guest).
ALRIGHT!!! ENOUGH!!!
That's it!
Rule # 10
Aliens and/or people posing as aliens who invade any earthling's computers will be disallowed to participate in the Football contest.
Exception: Betjorian's submission will be considered since Betjorian did submit it's guess prior to this rule being put in place.
(unless she wins).
Thank You,
MSA (a.k.a. MAS and sometimes ASS)
Marty,
Fair enough. Thank you. I will be more vigilant about who gets into my account in the future.
BJ
I think the answer to the riddle is the bouquet of roses Grandma had been given at the reunion. Instead if the traditional dozen, I think she recieved 16: 15 red ones and 1 yellow one (right?).
Yes, Holly
Aunt Barbara's lovely bouquet of roses can been seen in several of our reunion pictures. (At one point on Saturday afternoon, Braden was fascinated with the flowers and leaves.)
Barbara sent Mom the bouquet from herself and her children with their wishes for a happy family reunion. Barbara explained that the fourteen red roses represented Mom's children and their love; the single yellow rose stood for Mom and the hope that fills her life.
The stunning roses arrived just minutes before Mom was leaving her suite for Saturday's party. We took them with us then, and transferred them to the reception at the Cathedral the next day.
Thanks to Barbara and her family, Mom had 15 fresh roses from heaven that weekend. (St. Teresa always get some of the credit when roses of any kind arrive at Suite 403! I'm sure that's what Barbara had in mind when she selected those beauties.)
Now....moving on...
THIS CLEAR AND REALISTIC VIEW
IS A COMMUNION PICTURE TOO.
Lots of love, Lucy
44 - 22? What happened to the Green and White last night?
Oh the connections we find on our glorious family tree.....
Happy Birthday, Lorraine!
We toast you and the exciting year that lies ahead ... for you and Thom in new communities and new jobs.
Cheers!
Louise and David
Hmmmm...that's a tough one Luce.
I do remember a little ugly kid in a painting. I think that maybe it was a little too clear. He would have looked better in a sombrero.
what a great poet we have in our midst. Keepa goin' sis.
Love,
your little bro,
Martums
Hi Everyone,
Today, a favorite memory of Mom came flitting into my mind. Some pretty wonderful feelings came with it and I got thinking I'd love to hear what favorite memories the rest of you have about our Mom. Here's mine.
About 30+ years ago when my son was about 4, he phoned Grandma from Calgary one March day, to ask her if she would make him a St. Patrick's Day Rice Krispie cake. Mom, with her Grandma-love said, " Of course, I will." She thought she was talking to one of her Regina Grandsons. Then in the course of the conversation, she discovered it was Martin. Guess what she did? She made him a shamrock-shaped cake, decorated and surrounded with green candies and green Smarties, and popped it in the mail! Martin got his St. Patrick's Day cake a couple of days later and was thrilled! He sure knew he was loved and the cake was quickly devoured ( by all of us ). I was extremely touched by Mom's humor & love at that time and ,thinking about it again, I am once more, very touched. What a girl! Thanks again Mom. I love you.
Laughing with a few tears,
ME xoxoxoxo
How about a 60+ memory. Before the era of Rice Krispie cakes, Mom used to decorate regular birthday cakes and then make animals to place around them. She made them with toothpicks and gumdrops; toothpicks for arms legs and necks, gumdrops for torsos, heads, feet and other body parts. I loved them and thought she was the smartest Mom in the world. (I still think she's pretty smart).
Love, BJ
Lucy,
I use violets for my flower pens, and I used Back Fishtank rocks in lue of peas. The bouquet of Violets are Purple, Yellow, White and Wine, and a puprle rose and the funny thing is there are 14 flowers in the bouquet. (not done on Purpose)
Luce, Lorraine thanks you for your birthday wishes.
Marty, here are Lorraine's (divorce) picks for the football contest.
1. Calgary Winnipeg
2a. Winnipeg Toronto
2b. Calgary BC
3 Winnipeg
4 Calgary
5 Calgary
Score 24-20
Lorraine blowing out the candles on her birthday cake pix are posted on Barking at the Big Blog (just click on my screen name above).
Marty... how could you call that cute red-headed kid, ugly? He is perfectly angelic in his first-communion suit and bow tie. Only you could get away with a remark like that, since you are that kid and the painting of the old house is yours. And another riddle is solved!
Congratulations on re-creating our large family home with its uneven blinds, unfinished flower boxes, ornately supported awning, rough stucco finish and overgrown yard. It's all so real that I can feel myself opening that aluminum storm door, entering the veranda and being home again.
You had so much else to think about in preparation for our reunion and yet you found time to paint the old house and make it part of Lindsey's journal compilation. Thank you for sharing your artistic talents with us in this way.
The memories are priceless:
WITH SMILING FACES, MATCHING CLOTHES,
WE COULD STRIKE THE PERFECT POSE.
LOLOL, Lucy
Nice cake, Lorraine, candied carrots and all ... those number candles sure make birthday wishes easier to realize. I'm sure that you put 41 out with a single blow. Easy peasy ... as Thom would say.
Thanks for sharing this special day in such a visual way, Thom!
Luce
Lucy again...
ME ... I love the story about Martin's St. Patrick's Day cake arriving in the mail. Its one rice-krispie cake tale in a million, I'm sure - and, like the cake itself, well worth savoring.
BJ ... I remember Mom's gum-drop animals but it took your description of them to bring them back to mind 60 years after the fact. I may just go out and buy some toothpicks and gum-drops to see if I recall how those creatures were assembled. What fun!
Melissa ... with 14 flower pens you will never be without an implement for writing a quick memo or for recalling a reunion memory.
Goodness ... one more birdie and Tiger will match last night's Rough Rider points at -22! What a golfer.
Lucy (Chapter 5, entry 300)
Luce, yes, Tiger is tearing it up. I don't think it will take many more years for even the most skeptical to say "greatest ever."
I don't know, though, Tiger might have a hard time hanging onto that 7-stroke lead with four holes to play.
Sheesh!
Now, that's a 9 stroke lead with two to play. This is the stuff of legends.
Luce
There it is -23, 8 shots ahead of second place. We are watching history in the making.
Luce
no doot a boot it, luce, Tiger is the cat's meow
Oh, aye, Thom, give that laddie a wee dram! Cheers to 'im!
Can I tell a moving story
Of my mother's special touch?
Would I ever scratch the surface
If I spoke of gifts and such?
..(There's a treasured ring, a necklace;
There are earrings and a plate;
There are monthly clowns in fimo;
There's an afghan that's first rate.)
Should I speak of Mom's example
As a mother and I wife?
Could I ever, ever thank her
For the gift that is my life?
..(I've had years to walk this planet;
I have had a great career;
I've the love of friends and family;
I'm so lucky that I'm here!)
If I had to find a moment
When her touch was soft as silk,
I would choose the night Mom tucked me in
And brought me a warm milk.
Love, Louise
What a beautiful poem, Auntie Louise. It reminds me as a mom that the most important memories are the smallest touches, not my greatest accomplishments (like getting all the the laundry in the house done - still haven't quite managed that one - I'm always about 2 loads away.) I think I'll print that poem out and put it up in the kitchen to remind me of the kind of mom I want to be.
By the way, I think the answer to the riddle is the denim picture of all the sibs - it turned out great (and the denim was a great idea, since everyone's got it, and it's kind of like a neutral too).
Hey Louise
THAT was beautiful.
Love and tears,
Marty
Good eye on my latest riddle, Holly...
Nothing is perfect... but our family photo in denim and white is about as good a picture as a group of 15 people could expect.
Four elements led to this pleasing outcome:
1. Costumes...without pressure, Marcia asked each of us to wear denim and white in any combination.
2. Staging ...an upstairs room in Campion College provided a plain backdrop. In that setting, Marcia used some professional advice that she had received, to arrange us for a large-group photo.
3. Photographers ...Bob Barker set up his camera on a tripod, centered it and took several shots to get the best picture possible. Others took back-up shots for good measure.
4. Subjects ...what can I say? Look at those smiles, look at those eyes!
Thanks, folks, on all four counts! I know that this family photo will be proudly displayed wherever a copy exists.
Here's more to remember:
THOUGH THEY CAME AT MOM'S REQUESTS,
FIVE COULD BE DAD'S SPECIAL GUESTS.
Love, Lucy
Wow - that was a blog-splosion over the weekend!
Some great memories about moms. Dads are awesome too...
That is why I am not going to ask my dad to help me build my new golfcourse. It sounds like too much work (for me too)...
Gotta go to Plan B.
Sonia
Hey Marty,
I am your long-lost 2nd cousin, twice-removed. I just heard about your contest and would like to participate. Having lived in Wyoming all my life, I know very little about the CFL, but here are my predictions:
Eastern final: Winnipeg/Toronto
Western final: Calgary/Edmonton
Winner of East: Winnipeg
Winner of West: Calgary
Winner of Grey Cup:
Calgary with a score of 39-36.
As I have Native American blood in me, I would love a painting of one of my people riding a horse.
Sincerely,
Benjee Tall Walker, son of your late relative who moved south to the Great American West many, many moons ago.
PS: By now you know where to send my picture. Just address it in care of you-know-who and she will see that I get it.
Gee Marty,
Isn't it funny that as soon as there is something to be gained, all sorts of imposters, wannabees and hangers-on start coming out of the woodwork. We can probably tolerate their appearance, since the prize is so attractive, but I think if any of them win, we have to disqualify them on grounds of illegal access to the blog. I am sure most of the other contestants will agree to this.
Love, BJ
P.S. I am particularly incensed that it is through my address that they snuck in.
Sonia, don't give up! It's easy
Use the new grass as a temporary green while you build the new one.
Here's what you'll need:
Base:
impermeable geotextile
clear stone
4" drainage tile
washed sand
Root zone:
80% sub-angular,non-calcareous sand
20% organic matter(compost, peat etc.)
Surface:
Canada # 1 Agrostis palustris Huds(creeping bentgrass)
Irrigation:
backflow preventer
1" pvc
1/2" poly pipe
valve
controller
gear drive rotors
Size:
10,000 sq ft(if you want to certify it with the USGA)
Once you have your supplies,let me know and I'll tell you how to put it together. It shouldn't take your dad more than a couple of days.
BJ
I am sorry that these, so called, imposters are running rampant on the blog, and that they are using your site for access.
I checked with my lawyer and the sad true is... I DID say that anyone is eligible and I cannot prove that these people/creatures DON'T exist and they did make predictions, so I must honor their actions and send the prizes to your address if they should happen to win.
I am so sorry the inconvenience it has caused you but you are my sister and I know you'll understand.
Thank you for your patients...uh, patience, rather.
Love,
Marty
WOW STEPHEN!
Sonia, sounds like you have someone who knows what he's doing.I loved his list of what you need; incredible!!
Thanks Stephen, I'm still enjoying!
Holly, Good guess and nice comments!
Lucy, your poem was beautiful Thank you.
BJ, I'm getting a little suspicious of all these imposters, wannabees etc. Will you please tell them that Mary Ellen is is the contest and they really don't have much of a chance. Thanks!
Marty, 'Patients' was the right word! Man, you've got some strange
contestants to deal with. By the way, how's my Tiger coming along?
Blogging along,
ME xoxoxooxoxox
Lucy,
Thanks for the beautiful poem.
Sonia,
That's my son. Isn't he great?
Marty,
Thanks for the reply and your efforts to fix the problem. I am not too worried though, as we all know Mary-Ellen has the prize wrapped up. Is her tiger finished yet?
Mary-Ellen,
We all know you are going to win, but you don't have to gloat about it!
Love, BJ
Stephen,
That's great. I have half that stuff in my garage already, so I am halfway there.
I may have some issues with the neighbours but THEY will have to just deal with it. I may consider giving them a discount on the green fees if they keep their complaints to a minimum.
I'll be in contact, boy did I save on the consulting fee.....well, so far anyways. I am sure there is a family discount anyways right?
Go Tiger Go.
Sonia
Sonia, consulting and design are free for descendants. However, if you need me to oversee the build(highly recommended) we need to arrange transportation and accomdation. With all the relatives looking to use your green maybe they can donate any unused air miles! You'll have to talk to your Uncle Len and Kelly about accomadations, they spoiled me(hosts with mosts). I'd offer to give them some free landscaping advice to stay there again but from what I saw at their place, they don't need any help. Mona would also have to come, she's my horticultural muse and I missed her too much at the reunion to leave her behind again.
Thanks for the plug Mom
Marty, if you need an action shot of a tiger for Mary-Ellen, Mona and the kids and I will meet you at the Toronto Zoo and we'll dangle the boy over the rail. If neither of us get the shot, well...there's always Emily
Hey Guys
Okay, Okay...
I painted Mary Ellen's tiger...well not really HER tiger...well not really A tiger.
Actually, I painted a baby Canadian Lynx. It will be 2nd or 3rd prize, depending on how good my next painting will be.
Hey Thomas
Can you give me your email again so I can post a photo of the little guy?
Contest Update:
16 contestants: (alphabetically)
Betjorian, BJ, BobBarker, Bob Brockett, Dave, Ed, Holly, Lorraine, Louise, Lyndsey, Marcia, Mary Ellen, Mike, Stephen, Thomas and Tricia.
Deadline: September 21, 07
Marty
PS Hey Stephen...Gazoontite.
Correction:
17 Contestants incl:
Benjee Tall Walker (Tall? Yeah right... maybe if you stacked two of them).
Marty
The more the merrier! I have 2 brothers and my parents who live not far from me, so we have lots of room.
If I need some extra plants to make it more esthetically pleasing, I can raid my parent's yard.
We are good to go.
Sonia
Ciao Martino, letta me innaduze myself, Ima Livenza Friuli Pinzano a gooda friend ofa your brodder. Eduardo he letta me usa heesa compute eh I makea heem a offer he can no refuse. Eduardo, he's a tella me you painta da peech, he's a say Ima can ween da peech. I canna guessa da foodaball weeners. Ima somatime alucky. If ima ween Ima wanna you paint a peech of a bellino signora, Ima wanna da moona spark ina her eye ana bello smila ona her lip. I guessa now.
numero uno: Winnipeg BC
numero due a: Montreal Winnipeg
numero due b: Calgary BC
numero tre : Winnipeg
numero quattro: BC
numero cinque: Winnipeg 32 BC 19
Eh Martino, you senda da peech to Eduardo Ima can no leave my addresse. Soma peep, they looka for me.
Momma Mia!
I am siamese if you please
I am siamese if you don't please
I pick Stamps and Montreal for Grey Cup
In the west Calgary and the Saskatchewan
Winnipeg and Montreal for final in the east
Please observing Montreal will take it all
Final scoring being 29-14
Spirit (Thom's cat)
Marty, there appears to be a common thread concerning the picks of aliens, household pets, stereotypical Italians etc. I don't think one of them have yet to pick the Green and White.
I would hate to think that these contestants aren't actually real but merely thinly disguised pseudonyms for existing entrants who wish to hedge their bets against the greatest football franchise the universe has ever and will ever know.
If this is the case... For Shame!!
Perhaps it is time to launch an investigation and root out any and all imposters and...
"GET 'EM IN THE BACKFIELD!!"
Ok - can't miss a chance to win something....
Marty - I would like a picture of something to do with football?? Do you do sports pictures?
Here is my prediction.
West Final - BC vs Go Riders
East Final - Winnipeg vs Montreal
Final - Go Riders vs Montreal
Winner - Go Riders
Score you ask?? 24 20 (for the Riders of course!!!
I picked this all on my own without reviewing everyone else's guesses, so if I guessed the exact same as someone else, the commissioner of the contest will have to let me know!!
Honestly, this whole contest thing is out of control. Poor Marty. By my count, with all the outlaws and illegals included, we are up to 20 contestants. Marty, I hope you are able to cope with this unruly and inconsiderate crowd.
Love, BJ
Mar-Tay,
apparently you tried to send some paintings to my home e-mail, unfortunately they didn't come through, try my work address
thomas.barker@interior-news.com
we have less restrictive e-mail policies than telus
I am truly shocked and appalled at my cat. Not for using my computer (she's pretty clever) but for picking someone other than the Go Riders. I think she, along with all the other imposters should be immediately bounced from the competition.
It's been entertaining, though.
Hey Thomas
Once again, I must say...Thom Cat...uh, rather...Spirit...is allowed to enter since I cannot prove that he not a writer also.
That reminds me... I do have a painting of a doberman charging out of the painting. I may use it for a runner-up prize.
DEADLINE REMINDER: FRIDAY MIDNIGHT
MSA
uh...sorry, I meant "she" and I think it's "Spirit, rather".
You gotta be careful with all these writers around.
Mart
Attention bloggers, Marty's Canadian Lynx painting now posted on Barking at the Big Blog.
Hi Guys (Photo on b@bigdog)
This is a young Canadian Lynx. I call it "Waiting"
If I were selling this in a show, I would say they are known for ambushing their prey. A young, hungry Lynx way out in the forest spots a possible meal.
But, honestly, this little guy saw a zoo worker and anticipated his 10 am brunch coming.
Artist's value: $250.00
MSA
Oh and...
The painting is acrylic,
4X6 inches, framed.
MSA
AWESOME!!
I just checked out Marty's Lynx - Man! It's beautiful, Marty, and I think I've got to win it!
Loving the Lynx ( & her painter )
ME
xoxoxoxoxo
You know...
I think I should just give the little linx to ME. I love her so much and she did give me all those kisses and hugs.
What do ya think guys...should we just call the whole thing off?
MSA
the lynx got my attention marty, it has mary ellen written all over it, you don't have to call the whole thing off, just give it to her and paint another MSA minature, you never even thought of that did you? what do you think of my idea mary ellen?
if thomas's cat gets a guess, michael "squints" paladora antonini (lindsey's cat) is gonna guess too.
west semi - b.c.
east semi - toronto
west final - sask.
east final - winnipeg
grey cup - sask. 29 winnipeg 27
Wait a minute, you guys! I want to win the Lynx, fair & square. So, Marty, leave the contest as it is. I think I'm going to win any way! If by some chance I don't win, I have a few M.S.A.s hanging up right here in my house, that will definitely soften the blow. In fact if I never win another prize of any kind, I still consider myself the luckiest art owner in the world. There's also an auction coming up and I'm once again hoping to have another Martin Antonini original. So, everybody and their cats, etc. are still in the running for that fabulous Lynx.
A Martin Antonini Fan,
ME xoxoxo
There you go...
Do you ever wonder why we love her so much.
MSA
By the way...
If anyone is worried about all these "shifty characters" entering the contest or if you may think I am overwhelmed by the numbers...have no fear.
I have my system well managed and I also have a special catagory for our "friends" so I even encourage people to create...uh...invite... their "friends to join in.
MSA
Hello Martino,
I am Luigi Paolo Pinzano , older brodder to Livenza and Terza. You brodder Eduardo he make us alaugh. We show up ata his place, we looka for Livenza, he tink we Jehovah Wit, we laugh so hard then he say Mormon? We laugh again, but now he tink mafia, dis we laugh hardes at. We jus brodders looking for Livenza, hes in a bigga troub. He makea big batch kneeock and no clean isa mess. Momma she send me ana Terza to find.
Eduardo, he invita us in isa kitch, I see da peech on da wall, you painta da peech? He no wanna sell say belong to wife. He tella me i canna win a peech. I lova da football me ana Terza we go every game. Terza he no watch jus watch cheer girls. Ouch, scuse Martino, Terza jus slap me, be righta back.
Ok. Terza out of the ouse. I makea my guess:
rougha riders ina grey cup with blue bombers
blue bombers beata toront ina east final
roughariders beata BC ina west
roughariders winna da big one 31-18
I lika da peech eagle bald alikea me.
Hi,
I like this Luigi Paulo Pinzano - he makes-a me-a laugh-a. However, I don't think he'll be winning the
"peech".
LOL,
ME xoxoxoxo
Marty
I just saw you Painting on Thom's Blog
WOW!!
It looks Like a photo rather than a painting its amazing!!
I will have my Football guess in before Friday. I'm trying to educate myself before I guess so it will be more of a educated guess rather than a stab in the dark.
Marty,
Ken this bruver, your Canadian Lynx would be awfy popular in Scotland. Dave and I are travelling to Aberdeen today. Maybe we'll meet a Scot or two that would like a richt guid chance to win a prize in this fitba' pool. We'll get back to you!
No blether, Lucy
Hey Eddie
Try keepin' those crazy aliens away from your computer.
Are there bald eagles in Italy?
Hey Mellisa
Good to have you back.
Hey Lucy
Gazoontite
Love,
Marty
Yeah, that lynx is beautiful!
Whoa, I love all these aliens climbing aboard our blog. They add some spice to our contest. Those crazy Italians have me laughing out loud, and I wonder what those Aberdonians are going to come up with. I'll be watching closely and hope to see some more contestants soon.
Love, BJ
Hmmm, tempting, I have 2 cats....
I'll talk this over with them tonight.
I'll get Justin to put in a guess too!
Sonia
Love the painting Marty. Looks like one of my cats actually...
Ahoy Me Hearties!
Cap'n Jack here! Me saucy wench Sonia were tellin this gentleman o' fortune 'bout yer "contest".
Shiver me timbers! Aye! Me be a lily-livered football salt. Me picks be a wee posy as me pillaged a sack o' grog this fine mornin, er, well, me beenst splicin the mainbrace all day! I be loaded to the gunwales....
Me thinks me in the runnin fer the booty. Me hear the matey do's a fine trade paintin! Me likes the snap o' the briny deep be in fine order fer this sea dog's shipshape crow's nest.
Aaarrrr, I be placin the black spot on the scallywag sprog that plunder me treasure from under me nose. Me ship yer down to Davy Jones locker if me donts get the booty.
Me hears yer all a darlin lot of landlubber, aye, but me be a pirate on the account.
Avast! Me addled picks....
Arrrrr West - BC 'gainst SK
Arrrrr East - Winnipeg 'gainst Montreal
the big swashbluckin! SK gainst' the Winnipeg scoundrels 32 - 24.
(aaarrrr me be walkin the plank to the Fiddlers Green if me picks against me fellow sailors!)
Yo-ho-ho me countin me doubloons already!
Fair Winds me hearties!!! grog and grub be callin me name
Jack
Yikes! Geez - I stepped out for lunch and just caught Jack (a pirate friend I met this morning)leaving my office.
Did anyone know that Sept 19 is International Pirate's Day?? Seriously, who comes up with this stuff?
I was suspicious and checked the blog, as I was bragging about my great family.... and behold, I see he thinks he knows something about football...
On the off chance he does....I know where to find him to pass along that picture......
Laughing out loud! Now even pirates are wanting Marty's art. I can't say I blame them - who wouldn't??
QUOTE OF THE DAY:
An artist cannot fail. It is a success to be one.
-Charles Horton Cooley
To our successful artist brother,
ME xoxoxoxo
Hey Sonia
I like your friend, Jack. He is every bit as funny as you are.
Hey ME
Artist can fail.
They just hide it well.
Love,
Marty
Contest Update:
23 contestants: (alphabetically)
Benjee Tall Walker, Betjorian, BJ, Bob Barker, Bob Brockett, Dave, Ed, Holly, Jack, Livenza, Lorraine, Louise, Luigi Pinzano, Lyndsey, Marcia, Mary Ellen, Mike, Paladora, Sonia, Spirit, Stephen, Thomas and Tricia.
The Contest head official(me) has decided to split the contest into 2 catagories:
Catagory 1
(Eligible for 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes only):
16 contestants: (alphabetically)
BJ, Bob Barker, Bob Brockett, Dave, Ed, Holly, Lorraine, Louise, Lyndsey, Marcia, Mary Ellen, Mike, Sonia, Stephen, Thomas and Tricia.
Catagory 2
(Eligible for booby...uh, special prize only):
7 contestants: (alphabetically)
Benjee Tall Walker, Betjorian, Jack, Livenza, Luigi Pinzano, Paladora, Spirit.
Contest Deadline: Sept 21,2007
Marty
ooooooh, meow
pleasing, what is special boob prize
spirit
Mary-Ellen and Bob,
Please pass our birthday greetings on to Hannah-Lynn who is four years old today. We know that you will be celebrating this special day with her and her family.
A toast to joy in Hannah-Lynn's life!
Love, Louise and David
Hello Martino,
Ima momma Pinzano you no lissen my boys. Dey good boys but no angels. Letta me tell you old story about Pinzano boys ana de peech. Longa time ago, hundreds years. A younga boy fall ina love wit Lisa Pinzano, a good looking boy is name was Leonardo, Leonardo he paint de peech ona nice peece of canvas for is love Lisa ana he call it Lisa Pinzano, de Pinzano boys no like der sister Lisa ana clean de bocci balls wit de canvas ana rune the peech. Leonardo he paint another peech for Lisa but disa time he call it Mona Lisa to trick de boys. Lisa smila in de peech cuz she nose de trick. Ha, ha, Martino I kida you. I no wan you give peech to my boys dey no deserv. Livenza he not so bad tru he no clean up hisa mess but he leeve som gnocco for Luigi ana Terza but dey no can shair ana bigga fight happen braka my good spagett bowl. Ima gonna nock some heads when I find. Eduardo he tella me about you contes ana show me da peech in his a kitch. I lika de bird ona de wire he tella me you paint de peech. I tinka you molto bene but you give peech to my boys I nocka you head to.
Mucha love
Momma Pinzano
BUONGIOLNO TUTTO!
Grazie Molto, Lucia!
Benvenuta, Momma Pinzano.
Arriverderci,
Maria-Helena
Ditto, in English.
Sounds so much better in Italian, Maria-Helena.
Love BJ
Hi Lucy
Someone told me you had written a poem for Mom so I went back and found it on the 16th. I have just finished copying it(the old-fashioned way) - I think it will be good for her to read it and have it there to reread whenever she wants to feel you near. Thank-you for writing such a lovely tribute. Love, Vic
Okay
Here's 3rd prize:
The Three Sisters
@ b@bigdog
Marty
Sorry Guys
I haven't sent it top Thomas yet.
Marty
Hi Guys
For some reason I can't send anything to Thomas. Can someone help me put my picture up?
Marty
Attention bloggers: third place MSA miniature The Three Sisters posted on Barking at the Big Blog.
Oh My Gosh! I just looked at The Three Sisters - gorgeous! BJ loved Canmore when I took her there so I have a feeling that BJ, along with those strange creatures, Benjee Tall Walker and Betjorian ( along with all the other contestants ) are really going to want to win this one.
Marty,
QUOTE OF THE DAY:
Painting is poetry that is seen rather than felt, and poetry is painting that is felt rather than seen.
-Leonardo Da Vinci
What a poetic painting this one is!
Wow,
ME xoxoxo
Hey Lala
Beautiful poetry.
You go girl!!!
3rd place prize:
The Three Sisters (b@bigdog)
Acrylic
4x6inches
Artist's Value: Unframed: $100.00
Deadline: Tomorrow night (no exceptions).
Love,
Marty
Here is my prediction:
West Semi: Sask/CALGARY
West Final:
British Columbia/CALGARY
East Semi:
Montreal/TO
East Final:
Winnipeg/MONTERAL
GREY CUP:
Montreal/CALGARY
Final Score:21 - 24(CALGARY)
I would like from Marty a ...
This would be a tough choice...
I'm Sure I will Love whatever prize I get!
Welcome Melissa
ATTENTION BLOGGERS...
Since there are only about 24 more hours to get in to the contest, I will put up the rules one more time so everyone is clear on how it works:
Try to guess-
#1- The two teams that will play in the Grey Cup 2007. Score 5 points for either team guessed correct. Score 20 points for both correct.
#2a- The two teams that will play in the Eastern final. Score 2 points for either team guessed correct. Score 10 points for both correct.
#2b- The two teams that will play in the Western final. Score 2 points for either team guessed correct. Score 10 points for both correct.
#3- who will win Eastern Final-
15 points.
#4- who will win Western Final-
15 points.
#5a- who will win The Grey Cup-
30 points. (actual team).
All answers answered correctly total 100 points.
#6- YOU MUST POST A FINAL SCORE OF THE GREY CUP GAME. (This will determine a winner in case of a tie). If more than 2 people tie, placing will be determined by closest to the final score.
Deadline: Friday Sept 21 midnight everywhere. Cutoff approx: 4am mountain time.
MSA
Happy shared birthday, Don and Logan!
We hope you get double the wishes and twice the fun as you celebrate together - topped off with two servings of dessert! Vic's brief return to Saskatoon is sure to be the icing on those birthday cakes.
We'll be toasting you with Bruichladdich from Islay, Don and we'll have a night cap of Ocean Spray Cranberry Classic in your honour, Logan. Cheers to both of you!
Love, Louise and David
Och, Marty!
I'm yer desperate Dan from Dundee
Wi' fitba' predictions fer ye.
Aye, 'tis Butchers who met me;
Thegither we had tea
An' blethered away 'alf the dee.
The three lassie Bens I wud woo
An' the wee cat wud be richt sweet too.
But I'd never be crabbit
(Tho' 'tis ever my 'abit)
If ye painted a broon Highland coo!
Och, aye..
West: Coo Toun Stampeders vs Rough Riders
East: Blue Bombers vs. Alouettes
Western Winner: Coo Toun
Eastern Winner: Blue Bombers
Grey Cup Winner: COO TOUN! 35 - Blue Bombers 31
Desperate Dan, (bes' ken fer pickin' up a coo with one 'and!)
Lucy here,
Ed ... I'ma lova da Pinzano family. Ifa dey winna de peech I tink dey might learna to shair.
Vic ... thanks for copying my verse for Mom. When I read it to her over the telephone, she actually remembered the "warm-milk" night I recalled in the closing lines.
ME ... keep those quotes coming. They fit perfectly wherever you slip them in.
Marty ... it's great that we get to view the football contest prizes on Thom's blog site. We are all winners that way.
Sonia ... your yard is becoming a blog legend. To think that it all started with a dysfunctional mower!
LOLOL, Lucy
Wow Marty,
The 3 sisters painting is awesome!! I can hardly wait for the Grey Cup to be played so we can see who will win. Mary-Ellen is right. I do want to win this one. Of course, I want to win them all. Just call me Greedy Guts!
Lucy , Sonia and Eduardo,
Desperate Dan, Pirate Jack and the Pinzano family deserve to win just for the sheer cleverness of their submission. Love them all.
Vic,
Have a great time with your family this weekend. They will be so happy to have you there for the birthdays. Happy birthday, Don and Logan.
Good morning, World.
Love, BJ
Desperate Dan and others-
WOW!!!
I have to say...the submissions from the aliens, illegle aliens and other creatures are far beyond innovative, interesting and just plain artistic. I truly am the winner here. Thank you, Thank you.
I have only one prize to give for y'all but y'all deserve a prize whether you win the contest or not.
I commend you for entertaining our blog with such sweet clever.
I'm really thinking of putting my computer out on the roof tonight to see if I can get someone or something to invade my files.
Thanks again and
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DON AND LOGAN
Love,
Marty
Hey BJ
You forgot to mention the originals...Betjorian and Benjee Tall Walker. They deserve all lot of credit for their talent and
once agin...openin' a can o' worms.
Love,
Marty
Because of all the great Art, Scottish poetry, humor,wit ,cleverness, and sheer fun, I just have to say:
DOE MAY GO ROUND!!!!!
Loving these Blogsters,
ME xoxoxoxoxoxo
Lucy,
I knew you could write poetry, but I had no idea that there was a Desperate Dan in your life, who could write such supberb Scottish verse. WOW & DOUBLE WOW!!
Laughing and loving it,
ME xoxoox
Guid nicht, Marty
'Tis Ness from the Loch signin' in;
Ogopogo, ye ken, is me kin.
She's a greet fitba' fan
Guid B.C is 'er clan
So wur bettin' 'er Lions'll win.
Tho' ye park 'lang the shore in yer RV
Ye'll not e'er git a glimpse of oor party.
But if we win yer paintin'
All the world'll be faintin'
When we pose fer a picture fer Marty.
'Ere, ye go then:
West: B.C. vs Sask
East: Winnipeg vs Montreal
Western winner: BC
Eastern winner: Winnipeg
Grey Cup winner: B.C. 32, Winnipeg 27
Cheers!
Nessie and Ogopogo
Maaartteeee....
You'll not remember me, but a lonnng time ago, in the Darke Hall of Regina, I haunted you at night when you practised the piano after purposely getting yourself locked in. I loved listening to you on the piano and kept the night watchman from interrupting you. After you left and moved to Calgary, I followed you and discovered the beautiful mountains in the area. By a very strange coincidence, I decided to let my spirit reside in and wander through the range that contains the Three Sisters. I am therefore very anxious to win this exquisite painting.
My predictions.
Grey Cup Teams BC and Montreal
Eastern final Montreal/Winnipeg
Western final BC and SK
Easterm winner Montreal
Western winner BC
Grey Cup Game BC 33, Montreal 31
Eerily yours, BoootleJoose, the former Ghost of the Darke Hall
Holy cow, Lucy.
How do you do that? I love your Scottish brogue and dialog, and how appropriate to have Nessie and Ogopogo team up to win the contest. Good luck. Also, good luck to all the other contestants. Whoever wins it, this contest has been a great ride for all of us.
Way to go Blogteams.
Love, BJ
Woohoo! "Tricia's Trotters" have raised over $4000 for Light the Night! We've got one week to hit and surpass $5000! We can do it! Ring those phones! Ring those phones! (Is that just a Saskatchewan reference?)
Here are our picks:
Len
1 BC WPG
2 MTL WPG
3 SASK BC
4 WINNIPEG
5 BC
6 BC 35-28
Kelly
1 SASK WPG
2 MTL WPG
3 SASK CAL
4 WINNIPEG
5 SASK
6 SASK 32-24
AMY
1 SASK WPG
2 TOR WPG
3 SASK BC
4 WINNIPEG
5 SASK
6 SASK 30-16
CAMPBELL
1 CAL WPG
2 MTL WPG
3 CAL BC
4 WINNIPEG
5 CAL
6 WPG 35-28
Hi Guys
Whoa! Scaaaaaarrrrry! I remember you. Love your name Boootlejoose. If you win, you may get an invisible prize since you do live on another plane.
Hey Lennie
Clever...
Contest deadline: Tonight at midnight in your town.
Love,
MSA
lukes picks
semi - sask.
semi - tor
final -sask.
final -winn
grey cup - sask. 24 winn 20
Hey Luke
I need to know your picks for the two teams that will play in the Eastern final and Western final.
Marty
holy moley, what happened to rule #4?
Grey Cup:
#1 Sask vs Wpg
#2a Wpg and Mtl
#2b Sask and BC
#3 Wpg
#4 Sask
#5a Sask
#6 Sask 29 vs Wpg 14
Eh Martino, you may be ask a why Papa Pinzano no enta you conates. Tree year Papa es a no longer wit us. I tella you whata hap. Papa es a good a man good a papa for our tree boy. Papa es a harda work alla es a life e mixa da terazz chip ana grinda da floor. Age a catcha up to im. I alway worry bout isa hart. Papa e lova to fly da kite. e say I go fly da kite. I say ow you fly da kite wit a no wind. e say I no needa da wind. Papa e runna backa ana forta backa ana forta it a make a me worry is hart beat too fas. I say PAPA!!! YOU LISSEN YOU HART. Papa say I canna ear my art it a say I LOVA MAMA PINZANO. Dat a papa e is a so sweet. I make a big sup for papa ana boys spagett ana meat a ball. Luigi e alway eat to fas forgeta to chew da meat ball an it get a stuck ina troat. Luigi choke an choke Terza it im wit fry pan on a da back ana meat ball shoot out isa mout. papa try to catch. No wanna waste da food. Papa bumpa es a head ona da tabl ana no wake up. Now Papa is a up ina eaven fly da kite wit Jesus ana is Papa.
Mucha love
Momma Pinzano
Atza gooda stuff.
The Football contest is now officially closed.
Here are the contestants:
33 contestants: (alphabetically)
Amy, Benjee Tall Walker, Betjorian, BJ, Bob Barker, Bob Brockett, Boootlejoose, Campbell, Desperate Dan, Dave, Ed, Holly, Jack, Kelly, Len, Livenza, Lorraine, Louise, Lui.jr., Luigi Pinzano, Luke, Lyndsey, Marcia, Mary Ellen, Melissa, Mike, Nessieogopogo, Paladora, Sonia, Spirit, Stephen, Thomas and Tricia.
If I am missing anyone, please let me know.
I have everyone's predictions and I will post results once the scoring starts.
Marty
Official Rules are found at Blog #
Sept 20, 2007 9:52pm.
Here are the prizes:
Prizes for:
1st place (most accumulated points)
A miniature original M.S.A. painting with a beautiful $10.00 frame.(Subject matter: Your choice)
Artist's value: $100-$300.
2nd place
A miniature original M.S.A.
painting with a beautiful $5.00
frame.(Subject matter: Artist's choice).
Young Lynx
Artist's value: $250.00
3rd place
A miniature original M.S.A.
painting, unframed, sent to you in a courier envelope. (Subject matter: Artist's choice).
The Three Sisters
Artist's value: $150.00
2nd and 3rd place prizes can be viewed at b@bigdog.
MSA
Oh yeah, I almost forgot...
Contestants fit into two catagories:
Catagory 1:
Contestants eligible for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes only:
23 contestants: (alphabetically)
Amy, BJ, Bob Barker,
Bob Brockett, Campbell, Dave, Ed, Holly, Kelly, Len, Lorraine, Louise, Lui.jr., Luke, Lyndsey, Marcia, Mary Ellen, Melissa, Mike, Sonia, Stephen, Thomas and Tricia.
Catagory 2:
Contestants eligible for one special (sur)prize only:
10 contestants: (alphabetically)
Benjee Tall Walker, Betjorian, Boootlejoose, Desperate Dan, Jack, Livenza, Luigi Pinzano, Nessieogopogo, Paladora, and Spirit.
marty's having fun
lukes picks west semi - van cal
east semi - mon tor
ATTENTION LUKE (or Mike)
FILL IN THE BLANKS:
WESTERN FINAL TEAMS SASK and ______
EASTERN FINAL TEAMS WPG and _______
I have your Grey Cup Teams
SASK 24 WPG 20
Marty
west final b.c. sask
east final tor winn.
the moment of truth approacheth
anybody going to the game?
that's what i'm talking about
22-8
crap
22-14
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