A Hundred Years

09 Nov 18
08:00 hrs

     Yes, this year will mark a centennial anniversary of the signing of the Armistice thus ending World War I, the war to end all wars. Well, that was a misnomer because a generation later nation states went at it again grabbing territory and trying to settle old scores.

10 Nov 18
06:25 hrs

      Here in the Valley we have three official Cenotaph memorials where Remembrance Day services are held. The first one I ever attended here was in 1982. I was with the military contingent sent to the Wild Wild West. They had snow that year and my 1978 Gremlin X with it's big bias-ply tires couldn't make it out there so I hitched a ride with Cpl Jean Breuseau - he had winter tires on his car. Since moving back to the Valley we've observed the service in our own town. The streets will be lined with service members - both active and retired - mixed with the civilians.

     Our Loin Fruits have taken part in the November 11th Day Service as part of the Scouting brigade in the parade. I always thought it would be better if they were in place before the parade because when the parade halts the scouting kids have to worm their way through the other participants to their assigned position behind the Cenotaph. Many others agree with me but the Head Scouting - I'm Driving This Bus - Honcho says that the kids like being in the parade. No, she likes being in the parade. It's more important that the kids attend the Remembrance Day Ceremony and understand the reason for it.

     Recently, there has been a flurry of comments about an East Coast Member of Parliament who states that she will not wear a poppy for Remembrance Day as she feels that it symbolizes the glorification of war. From what was indicated this individual came to the Great White North from the Hugh-Ess after the 9/11 attack. Now if this is true then as an immigrant it is up to her to at least learn about our heritage and its celebrations. Yes, she is entitled to her opinion. I would never deny her that. But, if she is experiencing some negativity as a result if her comments maybe she should try to understand why. In the Hugh-Ess November 11th is referred to as Armistice Day, the day on which the armistice was signed at the end of WW I. That country has not attached the same societal significance to the day as we have. But things are now starting to change as poppies are now starting to be worn South of the 49th Parallel. Maybe there is some hope for them yet.

     On second thought, let them keep down playing November 11th. They'll never understand anyways.

     It has been determined that the entire family plus two will be attending the ceremonies tomorrow.  In the evening my Better Half and I will be attending Elric the Stalwart and Sister Jo's for supper and probably a game or two of Screw Your Neighbour. Supposedly Elric is doing cooking so it should prove interesting.

     There continues to be more multiple housing starts happening here in the Valley.  Unfortunately most of them are not rental units which are desperately needed. The vast majority of the rentals that are available are 40+ years old and many of them, like many rental apartments are owned by absentee owners who don't carry our regular maintenance but continually raise the rent.

     We have binge watched The Bodyguard. A good show.

     Today we went to visit our friends From Over the Hump. It had been a long time since we had been there as more often than not they have appointments here in the Valley. The visit was great. They'll be heading off on another cruise - this time to celebrate their 50th Anniversary. My Lobster and I went on a cruise once. It never really took hold. But, we are fond of travel. Maybe to the Mediterranean next time, which reminds me. I had better check my Lottery tickets.