Helenenorth

 Good morning!! Happy Valentine's Day A bright and sunshiny morning, not too cold, about minus 15 and no wind.  What a break from the sub zero temperatures, big winds of 60 k plus, and blowing snow that we had Wednesday and Thursday. So sad about that--we were supposed to have the leaders of the cross country ski program with us for training on Wednesday, but because of the weather, they did not come.  We have our fingers crossed that they will at least come this afternoon for 1 day of training!!  No room at our local co op hotel, so I have opened the Helene Hotel, with help from my colleagues.  I have a single mattress, sheets and extra towel for one guest.  Hope my water lasts!!!  It was kind of sputtering this morning. With the school closed for 2 days, and being very heavily encouraged to stay home, I  got a lot of practicing in, and what fun.  I have this great Hal Leonard play along book called, Swing with a Band, and it has some great ...

 Hi there!! A very good Saturday morning to you!  It is minus 20, wind 27, and snowing.  Very unlike the beautiful weather on the island and elsewhere in BC! Ah well, I am sitting here, enjoying my third cup of coffee .  Last night I did my weekly chores of shopping, cleaning and laundry.  I also spent some time making home made Valentine cards for my students.  Today, I am having the local pastor for lunch.  We are having a navy bean soup, cucumber, tomato and onion salad, and frozen raspberries and ice cream for the dessert.  The smallest container of Haagen-Dazs was $14!! Saturday and Sunday are my favorite days because I get to have at least 3 practice sessions.  One session is technique, one session is jazz/blues/ play along/ and one session is for more classical music.  A friend and I are putting together a set to perform, so I am playing through possible selections--all fun.  I especially like a Klezmer selection.  It ha...