GRAND MANAN, N.B.

MONDAY, FEBRAURY 27/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:44 AM GMT on February 27, 2006

Clear and very cold, temp -17C with westerly wind at 20KPH is giving us a windchill of -24C. The vapour in the harbour is making up, and sheets of ice also. The vapour on the back of Ross Island is sky high already this AM.

Found out yesterday Ivan had a spell after I left on Saturday. This is the reason for no visitors on Saturday evening, had some chest pains required some morphine to get some relief. Had Rob yesterday afternoon, and made Ivan happy they had a good visit before the room got too full with older people. They were both happy to have had the opportunity to speak with one another. He is getting further in his zone daily, and by evening is very tired. Still participates and enjoys a smile as much as ever.

A good weekend in the woodlot, got quite a bit down, and hauled sevral trips to the yard. This week looks like a good chance to get a jump on it to catch up. Too cold today - at least for me.

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 12:00 PM GMT on February 26, 2006

Clear, NW @ 15-20KPH, -12C with windchill -24C. Giving increase wind all day with gusts to 80KPH will make it chilly.

Visited with Ivan yesterday afternoon, and seemed to have maintained status quo after his visit home. Last evening requested no visitors with exception of Rev. FORD, and this is a new development. He has requested restricted visitors previously with a few of us outside the restriction. He did comment on good it was to have the group together, and how much he enjoyed the meal.

The girls won and are Provincial champs, boys lost, but still a great statement from the school on the athletic ability of our small school.

Got some wood in the yard, and will get some home today - if I don't freeze.

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 12:00 PM GMT on February 25, 2006

Clear, sun shining in the window over Ross Island and high tide making quite a picture, 10-15KPH westerly, -(c temp with windchill of -15C.

Lots of snow down yesterday AM in a short period of time. Approx. ten inches in 2-3 hours. No wind so no drifts, and roads melted before the cold so no problem with icy conditions. Rob took full advantage no school, snow,warm new sliding and snowboarding gear spent the afternoon at church hill sliding. Emily not so inclined yesterday, and spent time with her nannie until chance for sleepover arose, and away she went.

Ivan had his gathering, and very successful. He had a lay down prior to group arriving, and was able to greet all hands. Enjoyed the group, supper and participated at all levels, after supper returned to the hospital. I asked him if he wanted a no visitors sign, he declined saying he would see how it went. That is probably the first time since the death of his father that all, but one, of his siblings were together in that house.

No word on last night's basketball game.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:42 AM GMT on February 24, 2006

Clear, calm, Oc temp. A slight snowfall gives the harbour and shoreline a Christmas Card effect along with the high tide at daylight. A few ducks in evidence again this AM a sign that spring is on the way. Lots of migratory birds have been reported on the outer islands, a few weeks early.

Ivan still holding is own, but can see him moving into a zone that only he can appreciate. Content to listen to the conversations of the visitors, and comments only on occasion. He smiles and laughs at some of the comments, and remains interested in the local fishing news. He plans on going home for the afternoon, and having family for supper at his place. He is looking forward to that, and Dr. has advised that is up to Ivan when and how long he gets sprung.

Kids will be home for the afternoon. The girls and boys basketball teams are in the Provincial finals today and tomorrow. The island has been in exodous mode for last couple of days to insure the kids have lots of support.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:48 AM GMT on February 23, 2006

Overcast, -9C, Easterly @10-15 KPH. Temp to rise during the day to the O mark. Slight snow in the forecast.

Ivan still holding is own, and getting lots of visitors. Can see a daily chunk missing in his well being, but still getting shaved, showered,etc. on his own. Once that is done he has to rest for quite awhile. He has let it be known that he wants to go home for supper tomorrow "once more". Pat checking with doctor to see if this is possible, probably tomorrow after lunch, and back by 1800HRS. Hopefully can get it done for him.

Some more wood down, and out yesterday AM. Slowly making up for lost time, and long range gives cooler temps for next week or so. If I can get at it each day should come in under the wire.

Scallopers have dispersed already as the scallops in Duck Island Sound appear to have been caught already.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:44 AM GMT on February 22, 2006

Clear, calm, -7C. Not a ripple in the harbour, and a few ducks making an appearance at daylight. The tide was up pretty well so they were close to shore.

Ivan presented with award from ROTARY, this pleased him a great deal. He has over the years assisted families financially, and directed funds to university kids that needed a little boost. It was never public knowledge, he says he had what they needed, and others didn't so they helped where they could.

Scallopers doing quite well, but the sound closes today for the week. Don't know how much quota remains to allow them go next week or not.

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:35 AM GMT on February 21, 2006

Clear, calm, -10C. Water very calm with a reflection of the sunrise coming in the window.

Thought Ivan was gone yesterday afternoon, barely able to speak, and just wanted me to be there for awhile. I left when Betty arrived. We returned last evening expecting the worse, but there he was able to greet us, and still make some last minute instructions to be carried out. We left as more visitors arrived shortly after, and this bothers him when too many in the room.

Did get some time in the woods yesterday morning, and got a load out. Will see what is going on at work this AM, and repeat if at all possible.

Scallopers had a go in Duck Island Sound yesterday for the first time. No indication as yet of how they were doing. Not alot of quota remains, and with that number of boats the season will be over quickly.

The sea urchin fleet tied up volontarily in an attempt to save the fishery. Also agreed to only 15 fishing days next season.

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:42 AM GMT on February 20, 2006

Overcast, WSW5-10KPH,-7C temp. Not a ripple in the harbour, the little ice on the shore has left with the tide.

Ivan back to himself yesterday, not much of himin the bed now. He remains more concerned with Betty than himself, and his sense of humour still intact. I asked him if felt he could get a look around the island in. He didn't know as he was quile wobbly getting to the bathroom. He certainly would like to give it a go so will wait and seen what he feels like today. The temp is going to about O and no wind so that would be a plus thebrief time he would be exposed to the elements.

Got three more laods out of the woods yesterday, and
slowly getting wood manufactured. Will attempt to get in today for a couple of hours.

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 12:10 PM GMT on February 19, 2006

Clear, calm (thankfully), -16C temp. Ice on the shore of the harbour, and as the sun rises the vapour is making up. The sun over the middles of Ross Island and looks great.

Ivan showed signs of depression last night for the first time. Did not get involved in conversation, and no eye contact with us. I hope he is able to rebound, but things are happening that he cannot deny what is taking place. It is more than understandable that he his going to be down, hard to imagine that is not his norm.

Emily got in a visit with him yesterday with her cousin Sarah. He carried that off with no problems, and she was pleased with the vist.

I got a couple of hours on the woodlot. Got a few trees down, and manufactured with one trip in the yard. Will attempt to get some more home this morning after other chores are done.

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 12:21 PM GMT on February 18, 2006

Overcast, WSW@35KPh,temp -9C windchill -24C. A far cry from the temps yesterday. The week long range gives it cold for as far out as can be seen.

Emily had her mini hen/birthday sleepover last night, and as of this hour no sign of them as yet. Went over well no squabbles, and enough treats went over the bay to keep them quiet I suppose. They included younger brother with no problem, and he was happy.Being only a year younger he is quite ready to be included with this bevy of young women in his midst.

Ivan a little restless last night, and number of visitors have been restricted - at his request. Still upbeat, but obviously getting tired of the process. He and Donna spoke of his mother(her grandmother)at some length, and many laughs during the conversation. He wants to see the kids today so will get them in for a quick visit. It is hard on them as they have problems dealing with his appearance from just a few weeks ago.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:54 AM GMT on February 17, 2006

Slight overcast, southerly @ 15-20 KPH, temp 7C. Giving fair amount of wind then plummeting overnight and during the day tomorrow.

Betty returned home yesterday PM. Frail but happy to be in her own surroundings. Unable to visit with Ivan last night, but phone call at 2030 was on.

Ivan had a tough afternoon, but we visited last night and much better. Amazing outlook, sense of humour, and last minute things that come into his head to get done. He told Donna of some speacil preservses in the basement that he would not be getting to, and to use them up. Also some out mason jars of Donna's grandmothers were there also. Ship of some lobsters to friends in B.C. grinning the whole time.

Still lots of visitors, but learning to string them out as more than 3-4 make it difficult for him to tune in on what is going on.

Emily has four friends for overnight birthday celebration this evening. Lots of music?, and whispering I suspect.

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THUSDAY, FEBRAUARY, 16/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:46 AM GMT on February 16, 2006

Slight overcast, 2C, calm. Red sun poking through the clouds over the harbour a nice spring like effect at daylight. However cold and wind coming over the weekend.

Wedding went off without too much problem. Ivan insisted on sitting up as he knew he was unable to stand for that length of time. He had to return to his bunk immediately after the I DO's but was pleased to have the deed done. Betty very happy complete with bridal bouquet. Visited last night and all hands in good spirits albiet in separate rooms. Betty assured me she would stay put and not wander down the hall overnight.

Emily's birthday celebration a bit of bust, she had told nannie a fib about homework. Not tolerated here, and sanctions imposed. Emily went to her room on her own, and stayed until after the meal. She apologized to her grandmother after she realized her actions were not going to sway the decision. They are once again the best of buddies, and respect renewed.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBUARY 15/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:44 AM GMT on February 15, 2006

Slight overcast, 2C temp, slight draft southerly. Looking for rain and warm temps this next couple of days, and then in the freezer on the weekend for a few days.

Ivan and Betty tying the knot today after being partners for around 35 years. They are both are fragile at best, but wish to get the ceremony behind them with immediate family in attendance. Flowers, cake, rings,etc. are done, and ceremony at the hospital 1300HRS.

We visited last evening as yesterday PM no visitors for Ivan having had no rest the previous night. Betty frail, but in good spirits considering all that is on her plate. Will see what effect this activity today has no thier well being moving forward.

Emily is twelve today, and they insured that a card with cash was available for her today. She is Ivan's favourite, and has been since she arrived - a feeling I am sure is mutual.

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:45 AM GMT on February 14, 2006

Overcast, -1C temp, snow flurries, SW@30-35kph. Forecastng gusts to 50KPH.

Kids had day off from school due to something or other, certainly wasn't road conditions on the island. They had a good day building snow tunnels, and skating. Finally got a day of great winter activity for them.

Ivan seems to have had a good night, and most of the day. Getting a few more drugs so he is groggy, but for the most part is able to stay with the group visiting. Some of the time there too many in the room and he is moved to the background in the conversations. He dosen't mind and enjoys hearing all the chatter.

Betty just holding her own, and gets to visit when the crowd thins. Some moments it seems as if they are in a race to see who can get out of here first. No complaints from either one of them just worry about the other.

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:44 AM GMT on February 13, 2006

Clear, westerly @35-40KPH, -11C temp. The noreaster for the island was a glancing blow. No records for us, but just down the seaboard a record breaker. It started around noon, and looked fierce all day, lots of wind appears to have been mostly blowing snow.

Emily visited Ivan yesterday prior to the roads getting too poor. Very emotional for her and Ivan. He told her he loved her and that she was his favourite niece that is when the room was wet. Emily did well held his hand give him a hug and stayed as long as she could but had to leave.

Ivan tired, and feels that he can get out of here at anytime. The medication gives him relief but groggy. He can't see unless right infront of him, and that is difficult as many visitors around most of the time.

Betty feeling better, and remains in her bed down the hall. She gets in a few times a day to spend some time with him.

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 12:08 PM GMT on February 12, 2006

Overcast, NE@ 30 kph, temp -10C. Anticipate quite a bit of snowfall over next few hours. A regualr noreaster complete with blizzard conditions.

Ivan low, but still enjoys visits, and giving instructions for disposal of personal items. I had Emily to see him yesterday PM, and he was asleep. He wishes to see her even if he is sleeping next time. There is not going to be many more opportunities for the visit to take place. Betty also in, but appears to be doing well, but in separate room. She caught up on her rest most of yesterday.

Ivan's concern for those that will remain is nothing short of inspirational.

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 12:50 PM GMT on February 11, 2006

Clear, -12C temp, calm with slight draft from NW. Very little vapour on the harbour at daylight. Expecting northeast snowstorm starting Sunday AM.

Ivan had a great day yesterday then at suppertime called a few together, and advised he was on the slippery slope. Said what he wanted, relaxed then rallied. About 11PM asked to go to hospital and spent the night there and so far is holding is own.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:46 AM GMT on February 10, 2006

Snow flurries, NW @ 10kph, -12c TEMP with slight windchill. Not much snow anticipated, and will allow the ground to freeze hopefully will get some time in the woodlot.

Ivan did not get any rest in the hospital, too much comotion. Very tired yesterday, but still enjoyed all the visitors, and there were many. Visited early before the evening rush, and was having his tea at the supper table. Still holding to routine of many years, and appetite good. Passing personal items to persons he wants to have them is giving him much pleasure.

No fishing news good bad or indifferent.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:47 AM GMT on February 09, 2006

Clear, calm, -10C. High tide, and not a movement in the harbour. A nice February morning, and looks to be the case for the next few days.

Ivan spent the night in the hospital, required a treatment involving IV to assist in ridding his blood of bad things. He was outside moving some 'stuff' along to those he felt would appreciate it, handled the excertion well. Still great attitude, and tough as ever.

Did play on the woodlot for a couple of hours yesterday, and will try and do the same today. Solitude is sometimes a good thing.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:40 AM GMT on February 08, 2006

Partly cloudy, WSW 10-15KPH, -6C temp with windchill -11C. No snow or wind forcast today or the rest of the week.

Ivan doing well as expected, losing ground daily. He still insists on getting to the table for his meals, and enjoys them as he always has. Lots of family and friends going through, have had to restrict numbers and time in the room. He opposed this at first, but realizes his limitations. As he said once the opening remark in small talk is removed it gets awkward pretty fast, i.e. "how are you feeling today".

Quiet on the fishing front, the scallopers are getting a few, lobsters are scarce due to weather and water temp. Sea Urchins once again coming ashore, but don't know how many or what the price is these days.

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:39 AM GMT on February 07, 2006

Partial overcast, westerly @ 15KPH, -1C temp. Getting a little colder through the week, but no precipetation forcast.

Bob hit with a crate of lobsters while hoisting on Sunday. Fortunate it was a glancing blow, and he lost some teeth, but could have been much worse. He is in hospital, but late yesterday heard he was going to mainland for a catscan.

Ivan very weak, but insists on getting around, and visiting with his company. Got a hospital bed set up for him on the main floor yesterday, and he immediately tried it out. He told me yesterday that there"is more to this dying than you think". Making reference to getting his house in order, and making sure it goes where he wishes.

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:44 AM GMT on February 06, 2006

Overcast, southerly @30-35KPH, 6C temp. Giving high temps and wind for the next day or so. Water infront of the house has drained off so no pond, should there be cold weather for the kids.

Ivan not a great day yesterday, but did get himself out for breakfest. He is a determined individual, but discomfort is evident, can't get warm and insides giving him problems.

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 12:19 PM GMT on February 05, 2006

Overcast, 5Ctemp, 10-15KPH from north. Rained hard overnight, and front now a pond. Haven't looked, but imagine the drain has been plugged by seaweed from high tides last week. If it froze would be a great chance for the kids to skate, so will see how far up towards the house it comes before letting it all go.

Ivan had a good day yesterday drove a little himself, and was out with me for an hour having a look around. Lots of company coming and going - a good thing. Something surreal going through papers of a good friend and relative with them assiting knowing the sole purpose is to get his house in order.

One more room has fallen to the painter, and will be put back together this AM. One more room and the entrance remaining, as usual a project that required one room to be overhauled, but crept to them all.

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SATURDAY, FEBRAURY 4/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 12:27 PM GMT on February 04, 2006

Fog visibility approx. 1 mile, 5C temp, a little draft from the west. Temp to go up to double digit next 24 hours, and lots of rain tomorrow.

Lots of wind yesterday, Pat did well on the boat. The last thirty minutes was fairly quiet as she concentrated on keeping her stomach from reacting. Glad we made it when we did as strong gale force from SE come on even harder after we got home.

Ivan at home, but remains to be seen if he will be able to stay. His spirits are good, but discomfort becoming an issue, hellish.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 10:16 AM GMT on February 03, 2006

Overcast, 3Ctemp, eassterly @ 10KPH. Lots of wind overnight and rain from the south. Same for Sunday.

Travelling to St. John pick up Pat at the airport. Ivan not well, and vigil is on. Will bring him home this PM he is losing ground daily, but in good spirits. Attitude c'est la vie.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2/06

Posted by: GRANDMANAN, 11:38 AM GMT on February 02, 2006

Slight overcast, -6Ctemp, calm. Looking for very mild weather on the weekend along with some rain.

Did finally get a few hours on the woodlot yesterday, and got quite abit of stuff on the ground. Plan is to get in this AM for another shot. Ground still not good for hauling material home.

Heavy weather all week no fishing activity.

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