Tempus fugit

Vacation, England 2008.

It ended too soon, tempus fugit. Now I am frantically trying to recall every moment, but they are racing away like water in a vortex.   I need a freeze to preserve them.  Wait for me while I collect my thoughts.  

April

Happy Halloween

Dear Family and Friends:

We hope you had a Happy Halloween and all the Birthday celebrants had a great day.  We are anxious to see you when we get back.

Warmest regards

April

Happy Thanksgiving

Dear Family and Friends:

Robin and I wish you a very special Thanksgiving.  We hope you have a wonderful day with your own family and friends.

I feel particularly thankful this year for all the friends that have re-entered my life via the internet and chance meetings.  I am excited to have regained contact with David, Myrna, Christine, Paulette, Diane and Carol ;).  I have to shake myself to believe it is true.

You mean so much to us.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Regards

April and Robin

The Witch of Ghoom

Robin's grandfather was stationed in India as a sergeant with the British West Riding Regiment from 1909 to 1917. Two of Robin's aunts were born in India. One of his aunts (not born there, but travelled as a child with her father) remembers being awaken very early one morning to climb aboard the railway to Ghoom station to watch the sunrise over Mt. Everest. Robin's mother (born in the UK) recalls having a photograph of the Witch of Ghoom hanging in her family's hallway as a child . The picture was lost long ago, so Robin secured one for his mother, now 87. Robin purchased a photograph of the youngest Witch of Ghoom image he has ever seen. The seller said he found it in an junk shop and that it was part of a album originally . He also said it was dated February 1896 on the back.

Robin wanted to know more about the Witch of Ghoom photograph that he had purchased, so he found an expert in the UK who collects Witch of Ghoom images. Here is what Hugh Rayner said:

Your portrait of 'The Witch of Ghoom' is by Fred Ahrle, who had a studio at 16 Chowringhee, Calcutta in the 1890's. It was used as an illustration for the '1896 Illustrated Guide for Tourists to The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and Darjeeling', which was published in 1896. ( I re-published a facsimile edition of this in 2005).

Ahrle did all the illustrations for this book, so we can be unusually sure about the authorship of this particular version. It's nice that you have an original print of this; I've seen it used as an illustration and a postcard, but still haven't ever managed to acquire an original. Identified original prints by Ahrle don't seem to turn up very often.

I have been collecting portraits, postcards, snapshots and written references to her, for some years, with the idea of eventually doing a small book about her. Unfortunately, amidst all the fleeting references to meeting her, in travellers journals; no one seems to have ever taken the trouble to ask her name! But I live in hope one day, of finally identifying her.

Incidentally; she appears to have reincarnated, and there is currently an old lady who hangs out around Ghum station quite a lot, and who seems to be the spitting image of her!

Hugh Rayner

Bath, England

To be continued

Carol Whyte Sangwin

Unbelievable.

Carol Whyte and yours truly, April MacDonell, were roommates and friends in England during the mid seventies. We both worked at the Mayfair Hotel, which at the time was part of the 20 plus strong, Grand Metropolitan Hotel chain. We lived in a company hostel in Maida Vale, W9. I first lived with two young ladies from South America, one from Bolivia and the other from Columbia. If I recall one young lady was called Graciela Gutierrez Ayala. Carol had a vacancy in her room and I made my way from the three bed room to the two bed room. I know I had disappointed my south American friends, but it was time to move. Carol and I became fast friends despite the mix up with the breakfast cereal in the cardboard box on the floor (that's a story). After we returned to Canada and resumed our lives, I was a bridesmaid at Carol's wedding. I somehow got lost in the city and lost touch with Carol and her family.

And here is the reveal. Using glorious technology and Facebook, Carol found me. It has been over 30 years and the former roommates and friends have reunited via email--thus far. We only live a few km from each other. Plans ensue to meet. There is much more to tell, but for now here is a picture of Carol and her family. Carol with sons Evan, Jordan, Andrew, Caleb, daughter-in-law Ashley, Granddaughters Abby and Chloe and Carol's husband, Gary.

We are thinking about you Max and Julie

Max, Julie and the Cann family:

We are all thinking about you.

You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

Robin and April

Good Times

There were many smiles and happy faces at the Lancaster Ceilidh on September 15. A few guests have called to tell us they had a fabulous time and are waiting for next year's party. Thank you for your very kind comments.

Max and his team (Terry, Julie and Gilles) were a magnificent hit in Glengarry. Someone, and I cannot remember who, said we should have Max back. We want you to come back. "Haste ye back, we woo you dearly. Call again you're welcome here." We noticed that there were tears of laughter in a few eyes.

A very special thank you to Gilles and Carol for entering the spirit of the Ceilidh with Lucille, The Rose and Glengarry My Home.

The food was scrumptious. Us Torontonians are accustomed to receiving food on "plastic' or "Styrofoam" platters. The Ceilidh platter prepared by Betty was blue transfer wear/delft. This is how they do it in Glengarry and it makes a big difference.

I've been away from Glengarry since the 70's and I was overwhelmed by the generous gestures of all our guests. Thank you for the baskets of produce, homemade preserves, wine and your spirited attitudes. The house was full of energy.

Thank you for the wonderful gathering.

"Haste ye back".

Memories:

It takes a few moments to load. We did not take the time to get rid of the "red eye"; we wanted you to see these highlights quickly.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Modern Musical Ceilidh on September 15, 2008

Welcome family and friends to our Modern Musical Ceilidh in Lancaster, Ontario, Monday.

When: September 15, 2008 from
Time: 7:00 pm.
Location: Look for signs of Scotland (the Rampant Lion) on the main artery through Lancaster.

Please take your talent, your fiddle, tin flute, bagpipes or voice to enjoy the spirit of Glengarry

Warm regards

April and Robin

I can hear you

Hello:

I have a hearing aid finally. It is a Bernafon brand hearing aid (PRIO). It is very small and fits discretely in my ear. At day three, I can still feel it. However, you cannot see it from the front or back, but you can see it from the side if you are staring in my ear. It is not fully tuned yet. Things sound different. You have to wear it to grow accustomed to sound again, especially the sound of your own voice. It sounds like it is coming from somewhere else or from a recorder. I imagine I will get familiar with new sounds over the next few weeks. I am really happy about this-I feel like I have a part of me back.

Williamstown Fair Karaoke Contest

This is for you Melanie.

Robin and I spent two days at the Williamstown Fair, August 8 and 9th. On the 9th we spent several hours at the Karaoke Funfest. Wow. There were many amazing singers. Here is one of the most spectacular singers, Melanie. She is singing, "I'm Alive".

Find Melanie on YouTube at this link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RNo9IczaLA

We just wish we had a higher quality recording. Good job Melanie and good luck with your singing career.

More to come of the Williamstown Fair, the Glengarry Highland Games and other surprises.


Regards


April and Robin

Introducing Grayson Glaude Brian Bettencourt

Hello folks,

...and so we've done it again..... Grayson Glaude Brian Bettencourt, born 8 lbs. 7oz. (3.8kg) on August 4th, 2008 at 9:14 pm.

Mom and baby are doing great. Ayden's excited to be a big brother and we believe he's ready and willing to share all of his toys.

Very Best,

Suzanne, Brian, Ayden and Grayson

Where are we?

Hello Everyone:

My sister and brother-in-law are staying at our house in Toronto and we are in Lancaster. We are here for a two week holiday. However, it is already cut short by an out-of-town business trip. We took the cats with us. The vet recommended 1/4 adult gravol to pacify them. Robin mixed it into their food on the morning of the trip. They rejected it completely. Piper ran away from her bowl immediately. They got motion sickness and drooled and hyperventilated for a quarter of the trip. They calmed down eventually. Nelson is very happy here now. We have many big windows and he enjoys sitting in them. Mac is still nervous. But Mac is really trying to help Piper. Piper is frightened, so Mac spend the day with her yesterday. They both came out of hiding in the evening. They found a hiding place under a bed. Piper hasn't eaten much yet. We hope she settles down soon.


We are going to the Glengarry Highland Games and the Williamstown Fair. We found a huge estate auction in the Glengarry News, so we decided we were going to that on Monday. See the auction on this site http://www.theresataylor.com/auctions/. It is the auction called, Estate Antique and Collectible Auction. Some of the possessions belonged to a former Miss Canada (1954) from Cornwall. The other possessions belong to late Lieutenant-Colonel of the 59th Stormont and Glengarry Battalion of Militia R. R. McLennan (Big Rory) and three other generations of his family. It should be interesting.

I had better get up now. We are off to buy primer today to prepare the laundry room for a paint job. We installed our washer and dryer yesterday. This is good.

Have a nice day.


April

Farewell to Marion

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Robin's Aunt Marion (McCubbin) in Kilmarnock, Scotland. She was 83 years old. She will be missed on this side of the pond by Robin, Robin's mother (Marguerite) and myself.

Mrs. McCubbin called her every few weeks and Robin would visit her when he was in Scotland on business. She had great spirit and humour.

Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am in a thousand winds that blow,
I am the softly falling snow.
I am the gentle showers of rain,
I am the fields of ripening grain.
I am in the morning hush,
I am in the graceful rush
Of beautiful birds in circling flight,
I am the starshine of the night.
I am in the flowers that bloom,
I am in a quiet room.
I am in the birds that sing,
I am in each lovely thing.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there. I do not die.

Here is a short video Robin took of his Auntie Marion during a visit.

Lois and Robin in Calgary

Robin is in Calgary. Last night he and Lois went out to dinner. Lois is a long time friend of the McCubbin family. Lois is fantastic.

Morning has broken

Robin took this short clip of morning breaking into day.

About the Health Study

Taken from Vegparadise News Bureau, September 1, 2003 --

Begin a New Portfolio Instead of Popping Pills

Popping pills has been the principal method of lowering cholesterol since a class of drugs called statins was introduced in the late1980's. Now researchers have discovered a miracle formula that appears to be almost as effective as statins in cholesterol reduction, but without any side effects. The miracle formula is called the Portfolio Diet.

In a study reported in the July 23-30 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association researchers at the University of Toronto, led by Professor David J.A. Jenkins, reported that those on a high fiber vegetarian diet with an emphasis on soy protein, psyllium, and nuts lowered their cholesterol nearly as much as those who were taking statins.

The one-month study involved 46 participants (25 men and 21 postmenopausal women) with high cholesterol who were divided into three groups: portfolio (experimental), statin, and control. The participants, whose average age was 59, had a body mass index that averaged 27.6. A body mass index of 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight. A BMI over 30 is considered obese.

Statins vs. Diet All of the groups followed a low-saturated fat vegetarian diet of approximately 2000 calories with 30% calories from fat. There was no limit placed on sodium. The portfolio diet group received no medication, but ate a diet high in soluble fiber that emphasized soy products, high-fiber grains, fruits and vegetables, psyllium, and almonds. The portfolio group lowered their LDL or bad cholesterol by 28.6%, while the statin group taking Mevacor, a statin drug, decreased their LDL 30.9%. The control group that was on a low-saturated fat diet that included dairy products, but did not emphasize soy products or soluble fiber, lowered their LDL by 8%.
The portfolio group was able to achieve almost as much cholesterol reduction as the statin group through diet and no medication.

Along with the reduction of cholesterol, the portfolio diet reduced the C-reactive protein concentration in the blood of the participants. C-reactive protein measures inflammation in the arteries and is part of the immune reaction that protects a person who is injured. A high level of C-reactive protein causes redness, pain, and swelling and can damage the inner lining of arteries and cause clots to break off from the arteries and block the flow of blood. Reduction of C-reactive protein has not been previously reported with conventional cholesterol-lowering diets. Recent reports have shown that high levels of C-reactive protein in the blood increase a person's chances of suffering a heart attack or stroke.

At the beginning of the study all the participants had a total cholesterol between 250 and 260 with an LDL over 160. People with results over 250 are often placed on statin medication to reduce their cholesterol.

All three groups believed they were receiving statin drugs. The lovastatin (Mevacor) tablets were crushed and placed into vegetarian capsules. The placebo capsules, containing lactose and blue food coloring, looked identical to the lovastatin. All the participants were directed to take one capsule in the evening for all 28 days of the study.

Statins, the drugs of choice to lower blood cholesterol, are marketed under the following brand names: Mevacor (lovastatin), Lescol (fluvastatin), Lipitor (atorvastatin), Pravachol (pravastatin), Zocor (simvastatin), and the new more potent Crestor (rosuvastatin). They act on an enzyme in the liver that controls the production of cholesterol. The most common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and muscle aching. An 80 milligram dose of Crestor was found to cause kidney problems and in some cases protein or blood in the urine.

Statin Drug Found Life Threatening One statin, Baycol, was removed from the market in 2001 because it caused Rhabdomyolysis, a life-threatening condition that leads to the destruction of skeletal muscle tissue. The release of the dead tissue into the bloodstream results in kidney failure. The statin was recalled following the deaths of 31 people.

Because statins occasionally cause elevated levels of liver enzymes, people on these drugs are advised to have their liver function tested periodically. According to Dr. Jenkins an estimated six million people in North America are currently being treated with statins to lower their cholesterol.

Data published in the journal Diabetes Care, June 2002, says that the annual cost of statin therapy, medication, monitoring and adverse effects is between $600 and $2,100 per person, depending on the LDL cholesterol level being treated. Treating everyone with an LDL of 130 or higher would cost between 6.5 and 10.6 billion dollars annually.

The portfolio group averaged 78 grams of fiber a day while the other two groups averaged 57 grams daily. The average American eats less than15 grams of fiber daily. Both the American Heart Association and the American Cancer Society recommend at least 30 grams of fiber daily.
Portfolio Diet Emhasizes Fiber The portfolio group surpassed the amount of fiber consumed by the other groups by eating legumes, barley, oat bran and oatbran bread, fresh fruit, vegetables (especially okra and eggplant for their viscous or sticky fiber), almonds, and psyllium, commonly marketed as Metamucil (a soluble fiber). As part of the diet 200 grams of eggplant and 100 grams of okra were eaten on alternate days.

The portfolio group took the Metamucil three times daily. According to Proctor and Gamble, the parent company of this product, "Metamucil is a bulk fiber laxative for treating occasional constipation and restoring regularity. Its active ingredient is psyllium husk, a natural plant fiber with a high percentage of soluble fiber. Clinical studies have shown that, taken daily, 7 grams of soluble fiber from psyllium husk, the amount of three doses of Metamucil, when part of a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may help reduce heart disease risk by lowering cholesterol."

Their portfolio diet included 1 oz. (28 g) of almonds daily. The inclusion of almonds was surprising because nuts are considered high in fat and could lead to weight gain. Dr. Cyril Kendall, one of the members of the research team, told Vegetarians in Paradise, "Almonds contain monounsaturated fat to maintain good HDL levels." He explained that HDL is the good cholesterol.

"Studies on nuts demonstrated lipid advantages," said Kendall. "The FDA now allows health claims for nuts." Kendall was referring to the International Tree Nut Council's Nutrition Research and Education Foundation's petition to the Food and Drug Administration to allow the following health claims to be placed on nuts: 1. "Diets containing one ounce of nuts per day can reduce your risk of heart disease." 2. "Eating a diet that includes one ounce of nuts daily can reduce your risk of heart disease."

The FDA responded to the petition on July 14, 2003 by allowing the following claim:
"Scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts [, such as name of specific nut,] as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease. [See nutrition information for fat content.]"

Typical Portfolio Meals A typical portfolio breakfast included hot oat bran cereal, soy beverage, strawberries, psyllium, oat bran bread with enriched plant sterol margarine, and double-fruit jam. Lunch featured spicy black bean soup, and a sandwich that included soy deli slices, oat bran bread, enriched margarine, lettuce, tomato, and cucumber. Dinner highlights were a tofu bake and ratatouille with ingredients like eggplant, onions and sweet peppers. Pearl barley and vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower completed the meal. Three snacks daily included soy beverages, almonds, psyllium, and fresh fruits. Psyllium was taken three times daily, and almonds twice, VIP asked Dr. Kendall why the portfolio group did not eat a vegan diet. Because the other two groups were ingesting 200 mg of cholesterol daily by consuming skim milk, cheese, yogurt, and egg whites , the portfolio group needed to match that number to avoid being challenged by other scientists. The decision was made to include butter and eggs in the portfolio regimen. The portfolio group received 1 egg a week and 9 grams of butter daily.

In an article "Diet First, Then Medication for Hypercholesterolemia," Dr. James W. Anderson of the College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, in that same July 23-30 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, states, " Also, because the treatment diets were prepackaged and provided to study participants, it is unclear, as the authors suggest, whether adherence or outcomes would be similar for patients who would have to assemble similar foods for themselves on a routine basis."

Portfolio in a Real Life Situation Recognizing this shortcoming, Dr. Kendall informed VIP that a future study is being designed for a "real world situation" where approximately 40 participants would purchase their own food, all plant-based, after being given dietary advice and instruction.
The "real world situation" might also solve some of the complaints voiced by the participants. The lack of variety of foods was mentioned by 40% while 27% complained that the volume of food was too great. A smaller number, 13%, said they required meat as part of their meals. The portfolio diet was found acceptable by 40% of the group, some of whom said they planned to continue the diet. The five most popular foods were almonds, ground soy that simulated ground beef, oat bran cereal, oat bran bread, and plant sterol margarine.

Dr. Anderson concluded his editorial by writing, "Dietary management is an essential part of the treatment for lipid disorders, although adherence to strict and intensive dietary interventions requires motivation by patients, encouragement by physicians, and, perhaps, counseling by dietitians and nutritional experts. For most patients, dietary intervention should be the first line of therapy (perhaps for 6 to 12 weeks) before introducing pharmacotherapy for hyperlipidemia."
Reading this information, vegans can only respond, "We told you so!" Before pushing pills first, the medical industry needs to advise people to change their lifestyles, especially their eating habits. Give patients specifics on a low-fat, high fiber vegan diet instead of telling them that a dietary approach is "too difficult," "too extreme," or "spartan." It's easier for the physician with little knowledge of nutrition to say, "Take one pill each evening and eat a healthy diet."

Physicians need to write "Low-fat, High-fiber Vegan Diet" on prescription pads instead of Mevacor, Lipitor, or any of those other statins that may end up destroying people's muscles and livers. A high-fiber, low-fat vegan diet with some accompanying exercise is a more logical choice. A poor diet may have caused the cholesterol problem initially. Why not use diet to reverse the problem? As for Metamucil, anyone eating a varied high fiber diet with fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and plenty of water doesn't need it.

The Good Rain

This is the first year that I recall that we have had a good balance of rain and sun. It has produced some lovely and LARGE flowers this year.

A little show and tell below:

Lady Abigail Ophelia Maxine Persephone Brinsmead

Presenting Lady Abigail Ophelia Maxine Persephone Brinsmead

Abby for short. Every house must have a cat.

The Best Ever Achievers Team

The Best Ever Achievers Team enjoying their award lunch at La Maquette Restaurant at 111 King Street, East.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Six Month Study

Hello:

I volunteered to participate in a Canada-wide health study several months ago. The study is examining the effects of food on cholesterol, LDL in particular. To quality I needed to have elevated cholesterol. Despite being an ovo-lacto vegetarian, I have elevated cholesterol. I perceive this is due to genetics. I understand my siblings have elevated cholesterol also.

Since I would prefer to control the bad cholesterol with diet rather than medication (Statins), I decided to participate in this study and perhaps help others in the future.

I received my diet today. I will be on a VEGAN diet for six months. That means no diary or eggs for six months. There is much more to it than this, but I will write more in another blog installation. I do not know all the details yet.

'Til then


Regards

My Favourite Uncle

Slideshow of Robin McCubbin and Tyler Sehn (MacDonell). Rare photographs.

Enjoy

Our English Family

Handsome Ethan and Noah on vacation in tropical Cornwall in the south of England.

Remembering Chelsea

Robin and I were earthbound this year. We did not visit the Chelsea Flower Show this May. It is a little sad. We always visited our family in the UK too.

Here are memories of a previous visit in May 2005. This is the Chelsea Pensioners Garden (Ecover Garden) on YouTube. Filmed and edited by Robin.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0Rcza4jP_k

Warm regards

April

May 14, 2008

Hello Family and Friends:

Mr. McCubbin did the laundry and the dishes today. We do not have a dishwasher so he really DID the dishes. I think this is progress in the right direction, don't you?

April

May 13, 2008

Her majesty Queen Venus of Hoggtown sends her Royal Regards!



A cheerful note to Robin and I from Clara. It included a picture of her dog. How could I not share this?

April

May 12, 2008

How do you mend a broken heart?

Robin had a post-operative check-up with his regular cardiologist, Dr. Neuman today. Dr. Neuman gave Robin a "thumbs-up" and praise for Dr. David's work. We were not aware of all the repairs until today's visit. We thought the hole was a surprise, but there were some heart strings missing also (yes, there are heart strings). Dr. David fixed them. Robin had a broken heart. Robin's echo looked very good today. Now he will continue to visit Dr. Neuman every six months. Since Robin went to this appointment alone, I will never learn whether the doctor recommended a daily diet of Swiss Chalet quarter chicken, white meat and ice cream. :(

Life is a gift.

Take care all,

April

May 9, 2008, In his own words

Hello Family and Friends

Robin wrote the following in an email to a friend.

My sternum is healing now as I can feel more support in the chest if I cough. Last three days have been very good -- walked about 2.5 kilometers yesterday although the last .5km was a bit slow with the old folks blowing by me but they were cheating as they had walkers with wheels!!

Picked up the cat the other day (about 10lbs) -- they're right about the 10 pound limit because I could feel the pull picking up the cat so not even testing any strength because I've read about people popping their sternums 3-4 weeks after surgery by doing stupid things (ie. one guy was driving and got in bad parking spot, had to turn wheel lock to lock several times to get out and ended up popping his sternum and throwing himself back several weeks in repairs).

Wakefulness is pretty good -- not nearly as tired as I was though a busy day usually means some form of resting next day. Attention span is still a bit limited-- find that though I sit down to attempt read something I'm just not ready to focus any length of time to really get started (they said it would be a bit like that, short attention, more a want to do something but can't settle long enough to really do anything) -- watched a few movies but find sometimes even though a good movie I lose some interest about an hour into it and put it away then come back and watch ending later.

Off the prescription pain killers -- just take a couple Tylenol occasionally now -- would describe it as moving from pain to more of 'some level of occasional discomfort' -- can't lie on side yet without feeling pressure in centre of chest but getting up and down from chair or bed is vastly improved from a couple weeks ago. Getting in/out of a car is still a bit slow because of being scrunched up a bit with car seating.

Generally doing pretty good considering how it's only just over three weeks ago they had me busted open on the table - incredible what they can do.

Ed. OK Robin, enough of the scarey stuff.

Take care


April

May 7, 2008

Hello All:

Robin went to lunch with Vivienne and Elizabeth today. They had lunch at New Toronto Fish and Chips on 5th Street. It is only a few blocks away. Robin said he had a nice time and enjoyed the company as well as the fish and chips.

This is excellent progress. He cooked supper for me today too. I could easily get attached to this pampering.

Thank you for dropping by.

Warm regards

April

P.S. No Desperate Housewives jokes please.

May 5, 2008

Hello Family and Friends:

Robin is gradually eliminating pain killers. I believe there have been a couple of days that he has been pain killer free. He has also been up and about more over the past few days.

We went for a very long walk on Sunday. He said it was his longest walk yet. It was such a nice day. It was great to be together for a simple walk. The neighbourhood looked so nice.

We sadly missed Lt. Col Miles Montgomery's (nephew) Assumption of Command Ceremony this Saturday at Niagara Falls. Robin and I congratulate you and wish you and your family the very best in your new command. See our families celebrating the ceremony below.

May 3, 2008

Hello Family and Friends:

In comparison with the previous week, Robin had a low-key, sleepy week. He hasn't quite recovered from that horrible sneeze pain yet. However, yesterday he walked 14 blocks to the clinic to have his blood tested. He took the street car home to limit his walking. I really think the dreary weather had something to do with his mood too. It felt like we were in a Bronte novel with all that grayness and wind (perhaps Wuthering Heights).

Connie and Eric, our neighbours and friends, came for a lovely visit. Visitors are good for the heart and soul. Like I've written earlier, Robin is always perkier during and after the visits. Thank you for your visit as well as Larry and Mum McCubbin.

After nearly eight years of non-stop travel it is good to be on the ground and resting. A life of airports, hotel rooms and board rooms, although professionally exciting, is tough on the body. This is time to regenerate.

This ends Robin's third week. Next weekend I will be winding down Robin's progress reports because it will mark the half-way point in his recovery. I maintain this blog as a way to communicate with family and friends, so you are VERY welcome to stay with us for our normal day-to-day life reports. It's the McCubbin-MacDonell Soap Opera after that.

Just to let you know, we live in an interesting and diverse community. Our street and community have it's own blog called, "The Spirit of Lakeshore". If you are interested, here is the community blog address: www.thespiritoflakeshore.blogspot.com

Heartfelt regards to everyone.


April

April 29, Spring Chicks

Dearest Family and Friends:

Robin could still feel the pain of yesterday's interrupted sneeze in his chest today. I found out that heart surgery patients are afraid to sneeze and that is why they try to suppress them.

Robin had a quiet day and spent most of it looking out the back window. He shared his quiet day with Mac, Piper and Nelson. The Toronto General Hospital volunteer said I should expect quiet days like this.

My niece and nephew, Roger and Tara sent us some pictures of baby chicks. The chicks just arrived at my sister and brother-in-law's farm. There's nothing like spring chicks to cheer you up Robin. I have also published a picture of Robin's little English cousins, Ethan and Noah. They are lovely.

Shhhh, you'll wake them up!

Regards

April MacDonell

April 28, 2008

Hello Family and Friends:

It was my first day physically back at the office, so I don't know the details of Robin's first day alone.

He had a visit with Laurence Smith and his mother today. It was a good day for a visit because it was a dull day. It is horrible being house-bound on a dark, rainy day.

When I came home, we had some concern because he suppressed a sneeze and had the worst episode or pain ever. It is taking a long time for this pain to disipate. He has just taken a pain-killer.

I have a webcast for those of you who want to see a mitral valve repair. This one is performed by the same surgeon that did Robin's repair.



Dr. Tyrone David is called the "King of Hearts".

Update on the DOG

This note came from Ric Dende who took care of our little no name puppy overnight.

I SPEND A SOMEWHAT SLEEPLESS NIGHT WITH THE POODLE AND THIS MORNING TOOK HIM TO TORONTO'S ANIMAL SERVICES. THE OWNER LIVES IN THE KIPLING/LAKESHORE AREA AND SHE WAS IN TEARS WHEN THEY CALLED HER TO LET HER KNOW THAT HER DOG WAS FOUND.

This is touching. This ended very well, but I will certainly miss the little guy despite his brief entrance into our lives.

Warm regards

April MacDonell

April 27

Hello Friends

Robin was tired most of the day today, although he was cheerful and thrilled to see his guests.

He was very happy to see his long time friend, Rob Young. Rob also took Robin's mother for the visit. Rob and his wife Cathy are off to Paris for their 25th Wedding anniversary in a week. It was so wonderful that he could come by. Rob gave Robin some brain food--Simpsons Comics, MAD Magazine, Shonen Jump and World Wide Wrestling. That outta keep him busy for a while.

I had an adventure today. I was waving goodbye to Rob and Mrs. McCubbin when I spotted a cute little black dog. I think he was a poodle. He was trotting behind a man and another dog on a leash. I asked the man if it was his dog too and the man said, "No, he is just following me." Just as he said that, the little guy decided to park himself in our yard. Suddenly I had a dog with no owner in sight. I called over to my neighbour and he and his guest and I ran off to the nearby park to see if we could find his owner. No luck. He had no tags, but he had a good quality collar. We hope he is microchiped. My neighbour took the dog into his house and will visit a vet tomorrow to see if he has a chip that will identify the owner. He was so cute and obedient. I hope we can find his parents.

Robin is off to bed already. His mother and Laurence Smith are coming for another visit tomorrow.

Week 2 is coming to an end and the patient is progressing very well.

Take care all

April MacDonell

April 25 and 26

Hello Team:

Robin is doing well. He is walking quite a bit. He strolled with Vivienne and Saber today.

We had visitors. Joanne, Miles, Eliza and Ned dropped by for a lovely visit. We also saw Suzanne, Brian and Aydan. He always lights up when people are around. This is really good.

The cats seem to know he is healing because they have not crawled over him. Nelson fell asleep on his lap but has not ventured higher. It is really funny to see how they squeeze beside him in the bed. He barely has room.

Thank you for your prayers. They have given us strength.

Until next update.


April

April 24

Hello Family and Friends:

Robin did not sleep during the day yesterday. He went for two long walks. He had a couple of phone calls and visits from friends and co-workers. His vigor for life is infectious.

He is now starting to read his own BLOG. Next, he will be giving me dictation and seeking creative control.

He's B A C K.

Thank you for dropping by.

Warmest regards


April MacDonell

Insisting on Ice Cream, April 23

Hello Family and Friends:

Mr. McCubbin is back. He has a beautiful homemade apple pie in the fridge. He asked me to buy Vanilla or Vanilla Bean Ice Cream to go with the pie. When I said "NO", there was a global thermal nuclear reaction. "I want ICE CREAM", he said. I said "NO" again. This went on and on until I solicited the help of his mum (I am allowed to phone a friend for help). The solution was a compromise and he had a "LITTLE" portion of ice cream with his homemade apple pie.

Give me courage.

Regards


April MacDonell

Being Home

Hello All:

Now that Robin is home, the cats are ignoring me. I don't exist. My only value is to open tins of cat food and fill the water bowl. As you can see, all three scoundrels are sleeping with Robin. Robin has his heart propped up on his chest to prevent pouncing pain.

Robin had a good day today. His mother came for a visit along with Laurence Smith, a long time friend. It was a nice visit and I know that they were "very" happy to see each other. Robin, of course, tried to squeeze in more coffee because he had visitors. He wanted a second CUP, so I brought him a tiny espresso cup. "There is your CUP", I said. He was not amused.

He slept through the day again. I believe he slept more last night than his did in a week at the hospital. How can anyone sleep in a hospital? He did wake up at 4:30 am, but he said he went back to sleep.

We went for a walk down the yard together and that was his big walk today. I think it was enough.

I am signing off for now. I'll be back tomorrow with more tales (or tails) about Robin's recovery adventures.

Sincerely,

April MacDonell

Going Home, April 21

Hello Family and Friends:

Robin came home today after his last test and two information sessions. Our neighbour, Bil (pictured here) drove Robin home on the Gardiner Expressway. The Gardiner was a parking lot today, not much of an Expressway at all. It was bumper to bumper traffic. Robin didn't seem to care. He noticed the sunshine, the warm air, the colours... He emptied the smell of antiseptic from his nostrils and enjoyed the drive home despite the traffic.

Arriving home was the sweetest thing for him. Two neighbours greeted him from their yard. He made his way up the five big steps to the mud room. Nelson, our baby cat was rolling around on the rug very excitedly when Robin made his first step across the threshold. Robin bent down to rub Nelson's belly and hence normal life began again on Lake Shore Drive.

Vivienne, our neighbour made a big crock of beef stew and Robin inhaled it. He had some raisin toast too, his favourite. The cats are all sitting on the bed looking at him hug the little red heart that he took home. We are hoping they don't walk all over him tomorrow morning.

Robin's mother is coming for a visit tomorrow and he is very much looking forward to that visit. He will also be taking walks in the yard and perhaps on the street. He is so thrilled to be home and mending.

Robin received cards from his family in the U.K. and friends in the U.S. The scent and colour of your flowers fill our little house. The cats are very attracted to the balloons. Please, guys keep your claws off those balloons--no big bangs to scare Robin.

Many hearts to you,

April MacDonell

April 20 Update

Hello Dear Friends and Family:

Robin walked a lot today. I think he made at least four spins around the floor. The walks drained him though and he slept deeply afterward.

We think Robin may be out of the hospital tomorrow. However, that depends on the availability of a machine and Robin's results. We hope all goes well and he can come home. Perhaps he will start eating again when he gets home.

We cannot wait.

Regards


April MacDonell

April 19 Update

Hello All:

Robin has had two good days in a row. Today he had the temporary pacemaker removed. The pacemaker is the last piece of hardware that was attached to him. Now he only has a monitor.

Robin went for two big walks over the last two days. He took a long time, but he did it. He slept after both adventures.

He shaved today. That was a lot of work.

He is not eating very well yet. But he requested that I buy Swiss Chalet mashed potatoes and gravey today. I did and he gobbled them like they were ice cream. Therefore, we know it isn't his appetite, but the type of food. Hmmm. He has already requested that I bring a McDonald's English Muffin with Strawberry Jam tomorrow. This does not bode well for a change in eating habits.

Today I gave him your emails (and blog comments) to read. He loved them. I still have several to print. There was about .5 inches of paper after I printed them. The emails come from around Canada, South America and Europe.

I will continue to update the blog with comments and pictures.

Thank you for dropping by. We appreciate this so much.


Warmest regards


April MacDonell

April 18 Update

Dear Family and Friends

Robin is feeling better today.

April 17 Update

Hello Family and Friends:

Today was a big day for Robin. He sat in a chair for an hour. He had the chest tubes removed. He walked to the bathroom by himself. He ate half a sandwich. Yes, he's starting from square one.

It was a tougher day than yesterday--he felt more pain and he was exhausted. He had a low-grade fever for a good part of the day. He slept a lot. Dr. David said this is all normal.

Despite the low key day, Robin was still Robin and maintained his "let's do it" attitude.

Robin received gorgeous plants and flowers. These added much needed colour and beauty to the grayness of the room.

The staff and volunteers at TGH are fantastic. The volunteers that spoke with us have all gone through the procedure and are helping us understand what to expect over the next year (8 weeks, 6 months and 1 year).

Take care all.

Warm regards

April

The Day After Surgery

Hello Everyone:

Robin is now out of ICU (Toronto General Hospital). He was moved to the Peter Munk In-Patient Ward (4B-Cardiovascular Unit). After a visit from his Doctor this morning, he learned that he also had a hole in his heart. Dr. David also repaired this. Robin was surprised, but relieved to learn this.

He had waves of nausea, but is taking something to settle his stomach. He is cheerful and animated, even though he falls asleep quickly. The nausea and sleepiness are normal. Robin describes the pain as being "hit by a train". He read this train analogy on the internet and claims that it is true. He said his little heart pillow is his best buddy (see picture above).

I told him about all the emails and best wishes that you sent. They are totally amazing. I will print them and bring them to him in a couple of days. I know he will devour them. By giving him your heart, you have helped his.

Robin feels he will be ready for visitors starting Friday. The hospital's Visitor Policy is two (2) visitors per day, so if you wish to visit please let me know by email so we can stay as near as possible to the policy. Another reason to email is that we are not entirely sure when he will be discharged--we would not want you to visit and find him gone. Thank you. Note: I will only be able to see emails at the end of the day.

Robin sends a huge thank you, merci to everyone. He knows he is on a journey and he is so touched that you are cheering him on.

We are so blessed to have you in our lives.

Warmest regards

April MacDonell

Surgery Day Update

Dear Family and Friends:

Robin's surgery was successful. Dr. Tyrone David repaired Robin's valve. Replacement was not necessary. He went into surgery at 8:00 a.m. and returned just before 12:00 p.m. When I first saw him after his surgery he had a big flannel blanket wrapped around his head like the petals of a sunflower. I said to Elizabeth, "He looks like an Anne Geddes baby poster." He did. The colour in his face was very good.

The breathing tube has been removed and he is using a regular oxygen mask. He will be moving out of ICU very shortly.

Although he is very sleepy, he managed to utter a few words. He squeezed my hand.

Tomorrow they will get him to sit up and dangle his legs over the edge of the bed.

I am overwhelmed by the kindness, support and affection you have sent our way. I don't exactly know how to express my gratitude. I know it contributes to Robin's recovery in a very real way. I know that Robin would be speechless.

I expect that he will be sleeping quite a bit tomorrow, so I think visitors will not see his gleaming eyes.

I will publish another update tomorrow evening.

Warmest Regards

April MacDonell

Robin's Page

Hello Everyone:

Thank you so much for your inquiries. Robin will be arriving at Toronto General Hospital at:

• 5:45 am on April 15, 2008

His surgery will begin at:

• 8:00 am

This was changed from 12:00 pm. He is in very good spirits tonight (April 14, 2008).

Check the blog on April 16, 2008 for an update.

Warm regards

April