I think I missed a day or two. My apologies. Days seem to become blurred. Energy levels trying to find ground to rest on.
I had a visit from my doctor today, first one since isolation at home. It was good to see this doctor. He isn’t my regular doctor, but standing in for doctor G. He is the same doctor that admitted me for my heart attack in 2018, and I quite liked him. He’s got a great and caring bedside manner. And here he is again. Pat says his name is Dr. Human I like to think I’ve called in the top dog for this job, and because he was my doctor throughout my hospitalization during my heart attack, he feels like an old friend.
The world is on standby over this pandemic. And it needs to be. It is silent, can be deadly and knows no restrictions. It doesn’t care if you are white, brown, black, purple or orange, doesn’t care if you are rich or pour, educated or illiterate, young or old. Please stay home and help save lives. Make art with your kids. Play a game night. Learn to laugh and appreciate each other. Read. Write. FaceTime happy hour with a friend.
The flight restrictions aren’t likely going to lift soon, and that means a lot of people who wanted to be here with me cannot, my daughters especially. My sister. We will video call We will chat. We will text. Know I carry each of you in my heart. I am proud of you both for doing the right thing.
So, not too funny tonight so it calls for a dumb joke to lighten the mood.
A duck waddles into a feed store, and demandingly quacks a couple of times at the shopkeeper. “What do you want duck? Gettouta here”. The duck persists quacking at the shopkeeper, and says, “quack! Got any duck food?
“What! No! We don’t sell duck food! Said the angry shopkeeper. “Now get outta here you mangy old duck. If you don’t get out of here, I’m going to nail both those webbed feet to the floor!” And he tossed the duck into the street.
The duck pulled himself together and waddled back into the feed store. “Quack! Got any nails? He asked the shopkeeper. “No, ah, said the shopkeeper. “Good!” Said the duck. “Got any duck food?
Groaner ð
At least it wasn’t the bear joke. ð
Monday, March 30, 2020
Saturday, March 28, 2020
The Daily Drool for March 28, 2020
Well, another Saturday Night with nowhere to go. At least I’m sharing this experience with
the rest of the world.
I always loved to travel.
I could always seem to pull money together if a trip possibility was
there. An escape. A romantic getaway.
Elizabeth and I once kidnapped
David and Roy-Boy for a romantic get away weekend in Whiteshell Provincial Park. After work that day we met up at a local bar
beside the business center. Our hostages
weren’t too cooperative at first, but we managed to put blindfolds on them,
made them sit in the back seat and drove them about an hour to our cabin get
away. I would have loved it if someone
did that for me.
I’ve seen a lot of this world and am so grateful. I
enjoyed my travels. Loved Caribbean beaches,
Mexican waters, Ireland twice, Thailand, 10 country Caribbean cruise. No regrets.
If someone asks you
to go somewhere, go!
Friday, March 27, 2020
The Daily Drool for March 27, 2020
Hi world, I am still here and had a day of drifting peacefully and painlessly, but not getting much done.
It all seems tough to do, like operating through fog. Hard to text, talk, read. But that’s where I’d like to spend my time, when I can. I have surveyed my world and have made changes in my world. I looked upon my bed, raised my arms and declared “I want a hospital bed” and POOF! A very spiffy black 4wheel all drive, with hydronic lift, built in air conditioning, power positioning, blah blah. I have a hospital bed! Love it. I can fine tune my backs position. I can get my lap top on the table.
I am trying to write little tidbits to each of you. It takes a lot of energy and then I’ve lost my work (turning into dad). I hope I have the time and energy to finish. But now, I have better equipment.
I am hearing from people I haven’t seen or heard from in many years. It is wonderful to look back on fond memories. Please keep sharing.
It all seems tough to do, like operating through fog. Hard to text, talk, read. But that’s where I’d like to spend my time, when I can. I have surveyed my world and have made changes in my world. I looked upon my bed, raised my arms and declared “I want a hospital bed” and POOF! A very spiffy black 4wheel all drive, with hydronic lift, built in air conditioning, power positioning, blah blah. I have a hospital bed! Love it. I can fine tune my backs position. I can get my lap top on the table.
I am trying to write little tidbits to each of you. It takes a lot of energy and then I’ve lost my work (turning into dad). I hope I have the time and energy to finish. But now, I have better equipment.
I am hearing from people I haven’t seen or heard from in many years. It is wonderful to look back on fond memories. Please keep sharing.
A nugget for David and Elizabeth and all!
A big piece of my heart and my life experience belongs to two of my most favorite people; David and Elizabeth Hunter. On April Fool’s Day, 1986 I opened a business called Lombard Business Centre in downtown Winnipeg. It would put me on a 7 year plus journey of entrepreneurial terror, successes and failures; life and love lessons, a rogues gallery of characters that string together on this common thread that is the business centre). It would bring people into my world like a rare ornament (Ann Gaskin) and it would witness life do its regular tossabout on those people near and dear to me.
I opened my doors for business April 1st, and a few days later I had my first success: I signed David Hunter, Western Regional Sales Manager, Provincial Papers, Abitibi Price to an office lease at my centre, and in doing so, I had signed “my oldest living client”, Mr. Hunter, Shiny Paper Salesman, ; the “Cuban” – “Chew gotcha take yourself down a notch or two my friend, you’re strung waaaaaayyyyyyyy tooooo tight”!
I had just met one of my lifetime friends, the friend I consider my bother, David.
And, then, along comes Elizabeth!
An extra! A bonus! A Surprise! A trusted friend. A partner in crime. A confident. Miss Vermont. A twisted sister. The face of friendship through tears on my heartbreak. You have given me so much strength, I thank you.
So post some stories. One way is to email the story to my daughter Ryann at ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com and she will post.
I opened my doors for business April 1st, and a few days later I had my first success: I signed David Hunter, Western Regional Sales Manager, Provincial Papers, Abitibi Price to an office lease at my centre, and in doing so, I had signed “my oldest living client”, Mr. Hunter, Shiny Paper Salesman, ; the “Cuban” – “Chew gotcha take yourself down a notch or two my friend, you’re strung waaaaaayyyyyyyy tooooo tight”!
I had just met one of my lifetime friends, the friend I consider my bother, David.
And, then, along comes Elizabeth!
An extra! A bonus! A Surprise! A trusted friend. A partner in crime. A confident. Miss Vermont. A twisted sister. The face of friendship through tears on my heartbreak. You have given me so much strength, I thank you.
So post some stories. One way is to email the story to my daughter Ryann at ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com and she will post.
Thursday, March 26, 2020
The Daily Drool for March 26, 2020
Hello world ðĪŠ
I can move about pretty well today pain free. The trade off is sleepiness. I can dose off at the drop of a hat. Before the end of a sentence. Mid type...
I was up early today. Tried out my new luxury shower seat. Not big on looks but you can’t beat sitting in a hot shower, letting the water wash out the shampoo Showers and baths are underrated rewards in my world. Always have been.
Another reason to celebrate, arrangements are being made for my daughters to be here soon. Can’t wait!
The universe will unfold as it should. I have been working on placing little messages and fun memories or share a laugh. ð❤️
I can move about pretty well today pain free. The trade off is sleepiness. I can dose off at the drop of a hat. Before the end of a sentence. Mid type...
I was up early today. Tried out my new luxury shower seat. Not big on looks but you can’t beat sitting in a hot shower, letting the water wash out the shampoo Showers and baths are underrated rewards in my world. Always have been.
Another reason to celebrate, arrangements are being made for my daughters to be here soon. Can’t wait!
The universe will unfold as it should. I have been working on placing little messages and fun memories or share a laugh. ð❤️
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
The Daily Drool for March 25, 2020
This may only be a spit and a sputter today. I am hoping tomorrow is a better day.
Under the nurses direction, recommendation etc ,we have stepped up my pain meds to try to get me to a comfortable plateau.
I was foggy most of the day but I remember home made pancakes, yummy. Sun on my face in the front. A beautiful sunny day. I am awaiting Pats homemade meatloaf as I write this. It’s the balance in pain medication and lucidness that I am trying for.
Thank you for some time to rest. Night. Love you all.
Under the nurses direction, recommendation etc ,we have stepped up my pain meds to try to get me to a comfortable plateau.
I was foggy most of the day but I remember home made pancakes, yummy. Sun on my face in the front. A beautiful sunny day. I am awaiting Pats homemade meatloaf as I write this. It’s the balance in pain medication and lucidness that I am trying for.
Thank you for some time to rest. Night. Love you all.
Tuesday, March 24, 2020
The Daily Drool For March 24, 2020
Everything you thought you’d like to know about my day, but really don’t want to know.
I’m calling this “The Daily Drool” because it can be taken both literally and, well, figuratively. I am already aware that the changing drug combo in my body seems to bring out quite charming aspects of my personality. The filter is gone. The world is healing itself from us because we are killing her. And a steady stream of pretty lame jokes, but in there hopefully, a couple of keepers. Oh look.... a bird. I have a post-it note on my computer, don’t rant and call, lol. Hoping I don’t rant and write.
A quick story. When I was still living at home, aged 18 and working with my father at Manitoba Hydro, I was a typical teenager who couldn’t wake up easily. Didn’t do mornings well for years. Mom would call me to get up around 6:30. I would sit on the edge of the bed for 15 minutes, eyes closed, until mom would call again. I would then draw myself a warm bath and proceed to sleep in the tub until dad would wrap on the door and say ride leaving in 15 minutes. I’d then move quickly, dressed and in the passenger seat, waiting to fall asleep with drool running down the windows. Dad used to joke “it was like transporting a corpse!”
I have been here, at home, since last Friday when I was released from Royal Jubilee in Victoria. We were so grateful to be here. Patrick had opened up the decks (I know how much work that was), and had flowers and thoughtful surprises everywhere for me. He set me up on chairs on the front deck in the sun and I let the suns ray heal me.
We both then collapsed around 4 pm for a nap. Four hours later we awoke! It was exactly like we had fallen down over a finish line to get home!
The next couple of days were about trying to get this beat up mess of what used to be my body into a healthier pattern of sleep, eating and other personal unmentionables. Learning to deal with the pain, to get comfortable. Learning to deal with new medications. It’s an ever changing balance right now.
I’ve added another post-it, “Make good use of lucid time”.
My focus has been on getting my affairs in order. I have legal issues to get in order, but even a dying woman can’t get into her safety deposit box until, check back Friday” lol. Life lesson here, it’s never about you! ð
I’m calling this “The Daily Drool” because it can be taken both literally and, well, figuratively. I am already aware that the changing drug combo in my body seems to bring out quite charming aspects of my personality. The filter is gone. The world is healing itself from us because we are killing her. And a steady stream of pretty lame jokes, but in there hopefully, a couple of keepers. Oh look.... a bird. I have a post-it note on my computer, don’t rant and call, lol. Hoping I don’t rant and write.
A quick story. When I was still living at home, aged 18 and working with my father at Manitoba Hydro, I was a typical teenager who couldn’t wake up easily. Didn’t do mornings well for years. Mom would call me to get up around 6:30. I would sit on the edge of the bed for 15 minutes, eyes closed, until mom would call again. I would then draw myself a warm bath and proceed to sleep in the tub until dad would wrap on the door and say ride leaving in 15 minutes. I’d then move quickly, dressed and in the passenger seat, waiting to fall asleep with drool running down the windows. Dad used to joke “it was like transporting a corpse!”
I have been here, at home, since last Friday when I was released from Royal Jubilee in Victoria. We were so grateful to be here. Patrick had opened up the decks (I know how much work that was), and had flowers and thoughtful surprises everywhere for me. He set me up on chairs on the front deck in the sun and I let the suns ray heal me.
We both then collapsed around 4 pm for a nap. Four hours later we awoke! It was exactly like we had fallen down over a finish line to get home!
The next couple of days were about trying to get this beat up mess of what used to be my body into a healthier pattern of sleep, eating and other personal unmentionables. Learning to deal with the pain, to get comfortable. Learning to deal with new medications. It’s an ever changing balance right now.
I’ve added another post-it, “Make good use of lucid time”.
My focus has been on getting my affairs in order. I have legal issues to get in order, but even a dying woman can’t get into her safety deposit box until, check back Friday” lol. Life lesson here, it’s never about you! ð
Monday, March 23, 2020
How Am I?
I am at
peace with this. I am not afraid. I have led a full life. Ups and downs, tears and laughter. I lived it with passion. I always tried to do the best I knew how to
do, under the circumstances.
I have made many
mistakes, and hurt people I didn’t mean to hurt.
I own my life, including my successes and failures. In the end we are the total of our life's experience. Learn from your mistakes or get the lesson again.....
I used to say life is like riding a roller coaster, sometimes you are
laughing and going up hill, holding on for lfe, smiling for joy and enjoying the ride, only to find yourself screaming in a minute, plummeting
to the ground in a fit of terror. But what a ride! If you don't experience pain, you cannot appreciate joy.
I have had a retirement that only people could only dream of. Found a man who loves me the way I always wanted to be loved, had many adventures, we basically traveled throughout the last 8 years. I got to Ireland twice to meet a new Irish family that I love. Thailand. Baja. Greece with two lifetime friends and their partners just last September! Too much to mention here. Wow
The world is troubled now. Look for
laughter. Look for kindness. Look for humanity. It's there and if you pay attention to it, and it
will grow.
What Happened?
For those
who want to know how we got here: Here’s
the Readers Digest Version.
We decided
to Christmas in Canada this year. On
December 23, 2019 I had a routine colonoscopy scheduled. We had two huge feasts following the preparatory
fast for the colonoscopy, but all fine.
Had a head cold right at New Years, but recovered quickly. We were trying to find a window to travel by
car back to Fresno, when it wasn’t snowing in the mountains.
Around the first week January my stomach
began to act up, swell. Very uncomfortable. I thought it was a result of the colonoscopy
and divergiticulosis (not spelled right) which they said I had after
the procedure that was symptom less I
booked an appointment to see my GP (he was away but a fill in doctor
there). We thought my stomach discomfort
might be that, but the doc ordered blood work and stool work to make sure. On Jan 24 I got the bloodwork (all clear)
and we decided to head to the USA while we had a window to do so, or would have
to wait 10 days. Second day on the road
the stool sample came back positive for a stomach infection, difficult to
treat, that can cause ulcers.
I went to
a walk in clinic in Fresno with the lab report and was given the antibiotics (two
different kinds taken at same time and anti-ulcer pill I did not feel better. Thinking I had indeed developed an ulcer, I
went back to walk in doctor for a prescription to treat the ulcers. No effect and getting more and more
painful. We booked a flight to come back
on Monday so I could see my doc here, but Sunday the pain drove my heart rate
up to mild heart attack (on the edge).
Doctors kept me overnight, and night nurse got further investigation going
on what’s happening in my stomach. Next
two days of tests, every time my gurney was pushed down a hall, a hub cap or
essential engine part would explode off and hit the wall! I am sure my travel insurance provider has a huge bill!
I have a
huge inoperable cancerous mass on my right side, with the likely source, the
pancreas. Cancer has already spread
throughout. Pancreas, gull bladder, on
my liver, lungs, spine….???? Time left
is guesswork… I have been given a gift of time to help with the
estate and Everyday is a gift.time to tell people how important they were to me.
Fresno
hospital put in a drain from my gall bladder to intestine opening, which cut
pain by ½ They worked a week to
stabilize me to fly to Canada.
On Monday,
March 16 Patrick, Simon Cougar and I were sent by Medivac jet from Fresno to
Victoria. Flight took less than 2 hours
and is only way I am flying from here on in.
Victoria doctors
got a stent into my vile bile bag and I am unfettered and so appreciative.
I was
released into palliative home care on Friday.
Patrick and I were full of gratitude to get home. I was cleared of the virus but Pat is on
voluntary isolation. me home.Nursing home care will start soon as
Pat is cleared his isolation.
I spent the
weekend to rest, eat, cure and bolster
up my body and am 60% better today than I was yesterday and getting stronger.
And here we go!
Welcome
Deb’s Place.
I’ve made this blog hoping
it will help keep you as in formed as you would like to be as to what’s
happening with my imminent “exit, state left”.
If you are female,
you must be one of my many great, and special friends; a twisted, chosen or stented sister;
- or maybe a member of the Hydro gang or an Earl’s Girl? Lifetime friend? A
kindred spirit? You might be a loving
family member, a daughter, a sister, a loved cousin or in-law or out-law. A Chemainiac?
Or you could be someone who’s not even vaguely interested in this blog,
an enemy or an aquaintenance. Doesn’t
matter. All are welcome and I
understand this blog won’t be open long anyway.
If you are
a man, you are likely a good friend, my longest living client, a relative,
co-worker, an associate; an ex-husband
or a significant or insignificant other. ð
I am going
to write several blogs to start out.
Some background. What I am hoping
is these blogs will give information, and most importantly, bring out some
stories and laughs. I apologize for any
bad rants or bad jokes and spelling or editing errors. Wait a minute, no I don’t. J
To make it
more relevant to you, please tell stories on a thread if is relevant to a group/era
for shared story telling and updates. Or
start your own thread.
I also plan
to haunt a few of you, if and when my energy allows, for a FaceTime or
chat soon. I know that you are home, lol!
Please share the link with whoever wants to join. I will also post a link from my FaceBook page.
The girls (Earl's Girls, Bombay Bicycle Club) You know who you are
The girls. My single friends. Jan Marshall, Judy Hilliar, Patty Willison, Carol Congrad, Wendy Hogkins (and Wayne), Wendy Miller, Susan Rebbick, Darlene who lead the way, Deb Mazure, Bonnie Hill, Ginette Dezan, Lena, Sylvia and more. If I've missed you I will add you. Let me know and I apologize. lots of brain burps happening these days
Love you all!
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
***
A story from Judy:
Deb I hope today was a bright day for you.
Love you all!
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
***
A story from Judy:
Deb I hope today was a bright day for you.
Ice water really helps to refresh us as well as refresh our minds. That reminds me of one of your parties. The last ones standing; Robbie, you and I. On the basement floor, a beer barrel full of ice water. “Hey Deb; bet you 50 bucks you can’t dunk your head in and get a beer”.
“You’re on!”
In seconds down on your knees and you stuck your entire head in the barrel. Head swishing around, water and ice flying everywhere, up you came, no beer but tons of ice cubes stuck in your hair. Round two. Head went even deeper in. I cannot remember laughing so hard. Robbie and I both fell to the floor killing ourselves laughing. Came back up, no beer but this time think you froze your nose and ears.
Time to be honest. We turned the beers upside down so there would be no way that you could actually grab a beer tab with your teeth. After all these years you have the real reason why you couldn’t get one.
You always have an inspiring spirit and wonderful way to cheer people up and make them laugh. I hope you had a great day today.
Love you.
Judy H.
**
A message from Patty
Let her know I have been reminiscing about some of our adventures together like the Friday night in a blinding rain storm, in the boat trying to find the cottage with the hydro out. I had to find the back door in the dark and when I went inside the smell of a rotting mouse was overwhelming. Tried to find a flashlight with Debbie at the patio door soaking wet clutching food and alcohol. Next morning trouper that she is, she let me wrap a scarf around her face sprayed with Alfred Sung and she went into the closet to get rid of the mouse which she did. All because I am scared of mice.
**
**
A message from Patty
Let her know I have been reminiscing about some of our adventures together like the Friday night in a blinding rain storm, in the boat trying to find the cottage with the hydro out. I had to find the back door in the dark and when I went inside the smell of a rotting mouse was overwhelming. Tried to find a flashlight with Debbie at the patio door soaking wet clutching food and alcohol. Next morning trouper that she is, she let me wrap a scarf around her face sprayed with Alfred Sung and she went into the closet to get rid of the mouse which she did. All because I am scared of mice.
Another time, a bunch of us went on the bus to Minomon for the weekend. Debbie was in charge of our token Male, the blowup doll. He sat with her on the bus. When the customs officer boarded the bus to check our passports, she had him in stitches sitting there with her NEW boyfriend. So many good times.
**
You daily posts make me smile and laugh. It’s true even in your days in Winnipeg, we couldn’t get you up before 11:00 on the weekends.
I know you are surrounded by beauty, love and peace in your heart. Wish I was there for you and Pat. Love and miss you.
Denis’s Birthday, going to Casino in US, crossing border...and the look on the US CBP guy as he made his way down the aisle...looking very serious....then fixing his eyes on your “date”...the blow up doll. He was trying so hard to retain his authority without breaking down in the aisle, busting a gut...'
Then same “date” in Vegas when the 6 of went to Vegas to celebrate your 60th BDay! Complete with enhanced biological parts with rolled up socks, he was still the best date around, sharing huge Happy Hour Martinis with totally rad concoctions, the best part, us just being together and celebrating you...the Deb we all love and treasure...where is that blow up boy now that Pat has upsurged him?
Thank you, Debbie, and to Pat for embracing all us...with your open arms when I came to the island to visit, and to the extraordinary sense of humour you brought into all our lives...and thank you for my new friends...Elizabeth and your Longest Surviving Customer, David! I will cherish you always and happy Dar will have another Bombay Girl to join her at Happy Hour....So much love to you all....♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
**
From Wendy H:
I hope you are having a good day. Just thinking about all the good pool parties we had in our back yard. All us girls dancing around the pool to songs like “Never Going To Give You Up” by Rick Ashley, “Caribbean Queen” by Billie Ocean, Just Another Day by Jon Secada and so on. So much fun. I actually have Just Another Day playing right now as i’m Writing to you and smiling. Love you girlfriend.
**
From Wendy M:
Hey Deb, Wendy & Art here from the ‘peg and reminiscing about knowing you. First of all I met you when I was a real estate agent with Sunridge Realty/Property Management in 1991 (holy moly how the years have gone by!) at 155 Carlton Street where you set up an ‘Office Service Business’ as a tenant. We had occasion to run into each other working out of the same building and got to know each other better sharing a few fun tenant parties! When I was introduced by Jan to the Earls girls lo & behold who was part of that group but you! Many fun times with all the girls!
In 2013 Art & I decided to take a driving trip out to the west coast....this was Art’s first ever time all the way to the west coast. I had a cousin living in Vancouver who invited us to his family cottage on Gabriella Island...we took him up on his offer & found ourselves on a ferry to the island....of course when we let you know you invited Art & I to dinner at your place in Chemainus with your parents. You all gave us a very warm welcome and we were about half way through dinner when Art said to your Dad...’you look so familiar to me...What’s your last name?’ When your Dad answered Kearns, Art about fell off his chair as they both had curled out of Strathcona CC in late 60’s to early 70’s....while the reminiscing and wine got more than flowing at that point....it was then discovered that Jack Callum who you called Uncle Jack was a close friend of Art’s also.....well of course a phone call had to be made to ‘Uncle Jack’...an evening of many laughs, great fun & hospitality Deb by you and your parents! It was so much fun we barely made it to catch the last ferry to Gabriella! Hard to believe what a small world it is and continues to be! Much Love Deb to both you & Patrick from both Art & I!
**
Mona Lisa’s Smile
From Geeg
Debbie, I did not know how our lives would change.
We had met on many occasions at the business centre. We had a mutual business associate, for myself it was friendship, an opportunity to visit David Hunter. Debbie and I had spoken many times but had never socialized, our relationship was professional.
That was all about to change on one glorious spring day.
Something unexpected happened on this day. The event and, most of all, what it implied, a time of change-internal and external-
Mona Lisa Restaurant there was four people meeting for lunch David Elizabeth Debbie and myself.
We assumed our positions in the lounge and ordered beverages and lunch. We had no idea where our lunch would take us.
What started as a casual lunch finished with Deb and myself heading downtown to the Federal Government Office of Stats Canada. We had decided over lunch we needed to change our last names.
And so the once in a lifetime friendship began...
Love you
From Lina:
Hi Deb. I just wanted to send you hugs and to tell you that I wish you peace and love.
You daily posts make me smile and laugh. It’s true even in your days in Winnipeg, we couldn’t get you up before 11:00 on the weekends.
I know you are surrounded by beauty, love and peace in your heart. Wish I was there for you and Pat. Love and miss you.
.
**
From Susan:
Stories...0MG... you are the queen and generator of stories. Tried to post whole stories...didn’t work, so here is Coles Notes
Denis’s Birthday, going to Casino in US, crossing border...and the look on the US CBP guy as he made his way down the aisle...looking very serious....then fixing his eyes on your “date”...the blow up doll. He was trying so hard to retain his authority without breaking down in the aisle, busting a gut...'
Then same “date” in Vegas when the 6 of went to Vegas to celebrate your 60th BDay! Complete with enhanced biological parts with rolled up socks, he was still the best date around, sharing huge Happy Hour Martinis with totally rad concoctions, the best part, us just being together and celebrating you...the Deb we all love and treasure...where is that blow up boy now that Pat has upsurged him?
Thank you, Debbie, and to Pat for embracing all us...with your open arms when I came to the island to visit, and to the extraordinary sense of humour you brought into all our lives...and thank you for my new friends...Elizabeth and your Longest Surviving Customer, David! I will cherish you always and happy Dar will have another Bombay Girl to join her at Happy Hour....So much love to you all....♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
**
From Wendy H:
I hope you are having a good day. Just thinking about all the good pool parties we had in our back yard. All us girls dancing around the pool to songs like “Never Going To Give You Up” by Rick Ashley, “Caribbean Queen” by Billie Ocean, Just Another Day by Jon Secada and so on. So much fun. I actually have Just Another Day playing right now as i’m Writing to you and smiling. Love you girlfriend.
**
From Wendy M:
Hey Deb, Wendy & Art here from the ‘peg and reminiscing about knowing you. First of all I met you when I was a real estate agent with Sunridge Realty/Property Management in 1991 (holy moly how the years have gone by!) at 155 Carlton Street where you set up an ‘Office Service Business’ as a tenant. We had occasion to run into each other working out of the same building and got to know each other better sharing a few fun tenant parties! When I was introduced by Jan to the Earls girls lo & behold who was part of that group but you! Many fun times with all the girls!
In 2013 Art & I decided to take a driving trip out to the west coast....this was Art’s first ever time all the way to the west coast. I had a cousin living in Vancouver who invited us to his family cottage on Gabriella Island...we took him up on his offer & found ourselves on a ferry to the island....of course when we let you know you invited Art & I to dinner at your place in Chemainus with your parents. You all gave us a very warm welcome and we were about half way through dinner when Art said to your Dad...’you look so familiar to me...What’s your last name?’ When your Dad answered Kearns, Art about fell off his chair as they both had curled out of Strathcona CC in late 60’s to early 70’s....while the reminiscing and wine got more than flowing at that point....it was then discovered that Jack Callum who you called Uncle Jack was a close friend of Art’s also.....well of course a phone call had to be made to ‘Uncle Jack’...an evening of many laughs, great fun & hospitality Deb by you and your parents! It was so much fun we barely made it to catch the last ferry to Gabriella! Hard to believe what a small world it is and continues to be! Much Love Deb to both you & Patrick from both Art & I!
**
Mona Lisa’s Smile
From Geeg
Debbie, I did not know how our lives would change.
We had met on many occasions at the business centre. We had a mutual business associate, for myself it was friendship, an opportunity to visit David Hunter. Debbie and I had spoken many times but had never socialized, our relationship was professional.
That was all about to change on one glorious spring day.
Something unexpected happened on this day. The event and, most of all, what it implied, a time of change-internal and external-
Mona Lisa Restaurant there was four people meeting for lunch David Elizabeth Debbie and myself.
We assumed our positions in the lounge and ordered beverages and lunch. We had no idea where our lunch would take us.
What started as a casual lunch finished with Deb and myself heading downtown to the Federal Government Office of Stats Canada. We had decided over lunch we needed to change our last names.
And so the once in a lifetime friendship began...
Love you
**
Gimli Girls
Gimli Girls are a special set of ladies who used to terrorize Gimli. Mostly Manitoba Hydro friends, they are lifetime. Full of stories and laughs. I will write more later but please share stories and pictures.
"I love you girls so much, I would go to your funerals!" That'll teach ya!
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
"I love you girls so much, I would go to your funerals!" That'll teach ya!
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
Chemainus Friends
Lots here Love you all.
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
USA Friends and Family
There is a whole new group of friends that I've made through Pat, and I love you all. Pat's family welcomed me with open arms.. His friends too.
I love all of you. Share a story or sentiment.
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
**
I love all of you. Share a story or sentiment.
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
**
My Irish Family
To my Irish family, I love you. Pat will eventually bring me on tour. Sing a song and share a laugh or two at the pub!
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
Lifetime Favorite Chosen Family, Friend, Spirits
Got any?
email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com and I'll post them up
From Diane:
"The Truth is I’ve been putting this off for what seems like a long time, Deb!
I love you , love as only a big ( okay older) Sister can…. and I just can’t imagine a world without you in it.
I’m so proud to be your sister….
I’ve always envied your playfulness, your ability to be in the moment, your caring, your gumption, your humour…..your very capable brain…..I could go on and on…..but you know the drift.
Not SNOW…..
We share so many stories….we are the daughters of 'Jack and Marlyn'….granddaughters of' EW and Verna'….noone else but us shares that except….Garth and Terry Lee( some of it )….. our cousins from Dad’s side.
Be at Peace, Dear Deb……know You are loved,
You are cherished…..My only wish is that I could crawl in beside you right now….and we’d whisper, giggle, and try not to make too much noise……(maybe share a glass or 2 of wine!)
How many years did we share a bedroom ….I know you are going to say….until I almost smothered you …..but it did get us our very own rooms! Mine green….yours blue! Mom and dad’s was peach! remember? And the Red book? Tell me you remember the Red Book!
Ah! Debbie Dawn….so many memories…..
I send you comfort, light, and a giant love hug!
You are well cared for by Pat….I know that Ryann and Shannon wanted to be there …..as do I …….but the world prevents us right now …….
I’ll always picture you looking out over the water….enchanting…..
Love, Light, Many Blessed memories….."
Your Sister
Diane
From Bobbie:
So there was this time when I applied for a job at an office in Winnipeg. It was around 1992. The position was for an office manager/production assistant in training. My business cards said "office wizard". There was this other girl that worked there whose business card said "the suit". Her name was Debra. I never really had the opportunity to talk to her too much as she was on the road a lot. She was in charge of sales. When she was in the office, there was the odd time when we could actually chat and get to know each other a little bit. I realized in very short time she was a person that I really liked. She was kind, thoughtful, generous, hilariously funny, and caring. So one Friday in the middle of summer on a beautiful weekend, I went home and had a huge fight with the ex-husband. Didn’t want to stick around and look at his face all weekend so I decided to grab all my camping gear, throw it in my jeep along with my little dog and head out somewhere. Didn't really know where. That day I had been talking to Debra at the office and she said she didn't have any plans for the weekend so I thought what the hell? I gave her a call, told her what I was doing, and asked her if she wanted to come. Her reply was "give me 20 minutes to throw some clothes in a bag" We headed east on Highway number one towards Kenora. We talked, laughed, drank and had a generally great time. We were getting close to Kenora so I thought we better find a place pretty quick because it was starting to get late, we needed to pitch the tent. We then saw a sign that said “Anicinabe Park”. We both looked at the sign and together shouted “Itchy-Bitchy Park? Let's go!and we laughed and laughed. Pitched the tent, headed to Casey's bar, sat by the fire, met some new friends, and got to know one of the greatest people I have ever met in my life, my great friend Debra. My current husband Gord and I (not the ass) now live in Kenora and every time I see the Itchy-Bitchy Park sign I think of Deb. One of the greatest weekends of my life. Love you girlfriend. ❤️ðĨ
Then there was the time in 1993, December 27. Myself, the ex, and my daughter Kaleena showed up and rang Deb’s doorbell out of the blue at around 8pm. We had just got married at the JP and wanted to share the news with her first. I think we even called our parents and told them that we had just got married from her house. Too funny as we all know how that ended up. LOL!!
That's a good friend when you know you can share the news with her because she feels like family, like the older sister I never had. ððĨ
Then there was that time when Debra and I were working at the production company and we had become very close friends. The owners, we’ll call them Narcissist and Narcissista, were just that. Into themselves, their money and screwing anyone they could. Deb and I both had our evaluations scheduled the same morning. We had been there, well I think I was there about six months, I'm not sure how long Debra was there. So Deb walks past me to go into the narcissists’ office and about five minutes later she comes out of his office, walking towards me with a big smile on her face, and says, “See you later kid”. I'm like, what the hell just happened here? We had briefly spoke about how much we both disliked being there because of the personalities we had to deal with. I just didn't know that she would be leaving that morning. Shortly thereafter, I went into the narcissists’ office for my work performance evaluation. He started by telling me that I was doing a great job and then started bashing Debra. I was stunned. Actually I wasn't because that's the way they were. He knew we were friends. So I looked him in the eye, and said you know what? I'm not doing this anymore. Got up, left his office, grabbed my stuff and went home. I unloaded my personal belongings out of the Jeep that I had taken from the office then got back in and headed over to Deb's. She looked at me in surprise and shock. Then we laughed!! We drank her alcohol and then we went to my house, sat on my back deck and drank my alcohol. Later that afternoon, another of our coworkers who would have loved to have walked out as well but wasn’t able to joined us. We all laughed and laughed and had another great day together. That's what friends do. Comfort each other in their time of need. And stand strong beside each other. I love you my friend and would walk out of anywhere to stand beside you.
***
From David:
Debbie Debbie Debbie
I will always remember our 1986 meeting. The young budding entrepreneur in the classic blue business attire in her brand new business centre.
I was in desperate need of a strong administrator to add support so my Phony Baloney Shiny Paper business would soar, and there she was standing right before me in the blue dress. I felt just like James Bond must have felt when he first met Miss Moneypenny. I signed my pact with Debbie in the blue dress right then and from that moment on “ The universe has unfolded as it should “
She introduced me to a cast of ever-changing characters who turned out to be our Rouges Gallery. We moved around a bit going from Lombard to Carlton with Debbie always making sure her clients were being entertained with new characters entering and leaving her centre.
There were computer geeks, insurance gurus, financial wizards, headhunters, entrepreneurs, psychiatrists, horse racing experts accompanied by possible hookers, metal-heads, travel experts, world cup designers, racquet players possibly in the rackets, engineers, electricians, architects, car salesmen, telephone salesmen, deal
makers, cartoonists, she even once unintentionally included a homeless person. I think I could go onand on and still forget some.
The 1986 pact I signed with Debbie in the blue dress, blue dress was the best contract I ever signed. You and I became confidants and are the best of friends forever. I truly consider you to be my Sister.
Lots of love from your oldest living client. Love David
**
From Elizabeth:
Dearest GF
I remember quite vividly the day we met – Friday, after work cocktail hour at Old Baileys. David and I were in the beginning days of our relationship. He wanted to introduce me to his very special friend and a few of the characters (him aside lol) that inhabited your place of business. I was nervous because you meant a lot to him and your opinion of me mattered to him. You arrived at the bar, your smile getting to the table long before you. By the time we finished our first drink I knew I’d found a kindred spirit. As it was then, so it is now.
You and I took such glee in orchestrating ‘kidnap weekends’ for our significant’s. Despite grumblings about being blindfolded with their ties, driven to an unmarked spots on the highway (to keep our destinations secret) to change into casual clothes we so thoughtfully provided, a good time was had by everyone, every time. As you mentioned, our not so veiled hints to those same significant’s never resulted in a return of likeminded events.
You once arranged, for David, to have a Barber Shop Quartet come to the house to sing me Happy Birthday. Very cool. Another birthday you were integral to – David’s 40 th . I arrived at your business centre minutes before the workday ended wearing beneath a fur coat, stilettos, lacy bits, and a red bow (bag in hand with other garments cuz we were all going for drinks). You saw the bow on my neck, gave me the biggest grin, said ‘he’s on the phone’. I sat in David’s office, coat done up, waiting for him to hang up. He kept talking and talking. I finally stood up and did the reveal. He stayed on the phone! There was a knock on the door. I hastily pulled on a dress (he’s still on the phone) and there you were with 40 black balloons and most of the office standing behind you. David still on the phone. You and I couldn’t
stop laughing. And we continued to laugh through spontaneous dinners, cocktails, limo rides to the Eagles concert, plant exchanges for the garden, long visits on the phone. Where we left off on our last chat was where we began the next. And you always start a tale with your infectious laugh. You’d take us up there where stress and heartbreak became a story we could manage, where fear and loss always had a brighter side.
I love you, Deb, always. My arms are around you, always.
email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com and I'll post them up
From Diane:
"The Truth is I’ve been putting this off for what seems like a long time, Deb!
I love you , love as only a big ( okay older) Sister can…. and I just can’t imagine a world without you in it.
I’m so proud to be your sister….
I’ve always envied your playfulness, your ability to be in the moment, your caring, your gumption, your humour…..your very capable brain…..I could go on and on…..but you know the drift.
Not SNOW…..
We share so many stories….we are the daughters of 'Jack and Marlyn'….granddaughters of' EW and Verna'….noone else but us shares that except….Garth and Terry Lee( some of it )….. our cousins from Dad’s side.
Be at Peace, Dear Deb……know You are loved,
You are cherished…..My only wish is that I could crawl in beside you right now….and we’d whisper, giggle, and try not to make too much noise……(maybe share a glass or 2 of wine!)
How many years did we share a bedroom ….I know you are going to say….until I almost smothered you …..but it did get us our very own rooms! Mine green….yours blue! Mom and dad’s was peach! remember? And the Red book? Tell me you remember the Red Book!
Ah! Debbie Dawn….so many memories…..
I send you comfort, light, and a giant love hug!
You are well cared for by Pat….I know that Ryann and Shannon wanted to be there …..as do I …….but the world prevents us right now …….
I’ll always picture you looking out over the water….enchanting…..
Love, Light, Many Blessed memories….."
Your Sister
Diane
***
From Bobbie:
So there was this time when I applied for a job at an office in Winnipeg. It was around 1992. The position was for an office manager/production assistant in training. My business cards said "office wizard". There was this other girl that worked there whose business card said "the suit". Her name was Debra. I never really had the opportunity to talk to her too much as she was on the road a lot. She was in charge of sales. When she was in the office, there was the odd time when we could actually chat and get to know each other a little bit. I realized in very short time she was a person that I really liked. She was kind, thoughtful, generous, hilariously funny, and caring. So one Friday in the middle of summer on a beautiful weekend, I went home and had a huge fight with the ex-husband. Didn’t want to stick around and look at his face all weekend so I decided to grab all my camping gear, throw it in my jeep along with my little dog and head out somewhere. Didn't really know where. That day I had been talking to Debra at the office and she said she didn't have any plans for the weekend so I thought what the hell? I gave her a call, told her what I was doing, and asked her if she wanted to come. Her reply was "give me 20 minutes to throw some clothes in a bag" We headed east on Highway number one towards Kenora. We talked, laughed, drank and had a generally great time. We were getting close to Kenora so I thought we better find a place pretty quick because it was starting to get late, we needed to pitch the tent. We then saw a sign that said “Anicinabe Park”. We both looked at the sign and together shouted “Itchy-Bitchy Park? Let's go!and we laughed and laughed. Pitched the tent, headed to Casey's bar, sat by the fire, met some new friends, and got to know one of the greatest people I have ever met in my life, my great friend Debra. My current husband Gord and I (not the ass) now live in Kenora and every time I see the Itchy-Bitchy Park sign I think of Deb. One of the greatest weekends of my life. Love you girlfriend. ❤️ðĨ
Then there was the time in 1993, December 27. Myself, the ex, and my daughter Kaleena showed up and rang Deb’s doorbell out of the blue at around 8pm. We had just got married at the JP and wanted to share the news with her first. I think we even called our parents and told them that we had just got married from her house. Too funny as we all know how that ended up. LOL!!
That's a good friend when you know you can share the news with her because she feels like family, like the older sister I never had. ððĨ
Then there was that time when Debra and I were working at the production company and we had become very close friends. The owners, we’ll call them Narcissist and Narcissista, were just that. Into themselves, their money and screwing anyone they could. Deb and I both had our evaluations scheduled the same morning. We had been there, well I think I was there about six months, I'm not sure how long Debra was there. So Deb walks past me to go into the narcissists’ office and about five minutes later she comes out of his office, walking towards me with a big smile on her face, and says, “See you later kid”. I'm like, what the hell just happened here? We had briefly spoke about how much we both disliked being there because of the personalities we had to deal with. I just didn't know that she would be leaving that morning. Shortly thereafter, I went into the narcissists’ office for my work performance evaluation. He started by telling me that I was doing a great job and then started bashing Debra. I was stunned. Actually I wasn't because that's the way they were. He knew we were friends. So I looked him in the eye, and said you know what? I'm not doing this anymore. Got up, left his office, grabbed my stuff and went home. I unloaded my personal belongings out of the Jeep that I had taken from the office then got back in and headed over to Deb's. She looked at me in surprise and shock. Then we laughed!! We drank her alcohol and then we went to my house, sat on my back deck and drank my alcohol. Later that afternoon, another of our coworkers who would have loved to have walked out as well but wasn’t able to joined us. We all laughed and laughed and had another great day together. That's what friends do. Comfort each other in their time of need. And stand strong beside each other. I love you my friend and would walk out of anywhere to stand beside you.
***
From David:
Debbie Debbie Debbie
I will always remember our 1986 meeting. The young budding entrepreneur in the classic blue business attire in her brand new business centre.
I was in desperate need of a strong administrator to add support so my Phony Baloney Shiny Paper business would soar, and there she was standing right before me in the blue dress. I felt just like James Bond must have felt when he first met Miss Moneypenny. I signed my pact with Debbie in the blue dress right then and from that moment on “ The universe has unfolded as it should “
She introduced me to a cast of ever-changing characters who turned out to be our Rouges Gallery. We moved around a bit going from Lombard to Carlton with Debbie always making sure her clients were being entertained with new characters entering and leaving her centre.
There were computer geeks, insurance gurus, financial wizards, headhunters, entrepreneurs, psychiatrists, horse racing experts accompanied by possible hookers, metal-heads, travel experts, world cup designers, racquet players possibly in the rackets, engineers, electricians, architects, car salesmen, telephone salesmen, deal
makers, cartoonists, she even once unintentionally included a homeless person. I think I could go onand on and still forget some.
The 1986 pact I signed with Debbie in the blue dress, blue dress was the best contract I ever signed. You and I became confidants and are the best of friends forever. I truly consider you to be my Sister.
Lots of love from your oldest living client. Love David
**
From Elizabeth:
Dearest GF
I remember quite vividly the day we met – Friday, after work cocktail hour at Old Baileys. David and I were in the beginning days of our relationship. He wanted to introduce me to his very special friend and a few of the characters (him aside lol) that inhabited your place of business. I was nervous because you meant a lot to him and your opinion of me mattered to him. You arrived at the bar, your smile getting to the table long before you. By the time we finished our first drink I knew I’d found a kindred spirit. As it was then, so it is now.
You and I took such glee in orchestrating ‘kidnap weekends’ for our significant’s. Despite grumblings about being blindfolded with their ties, driven to an unmarked spots on the highway (to keep our destinations secret) to change into casual clothes we so thoughtfully provided, a good time was had by everyone, every time. As you mentioned, our not so veiled hints to those same significant’s never resulted in a return of likeminded events.
You once arranged, for David, to have a Barber Shop Quartet come to the house to sing me Happy Birthday. Very cool. Another birthday you were integral to – David’s 40 th . I arrived at your business centre minutes before the workday ended wearing beneath a fur coat, stilettos, lacy bits, and a red bow (bag in hand with other garments cuz we were all going for drinks). You saw the bow on my neck, gave me the biggest grin, said ‘he’s on the phone’. I sat in David’s office, coat done up, waiting for him to hang up. He kept talking and talking. I finally stood up and did the reveal. He stayed on the phone! There was a knock on the door. I hastily pulled on a dress (he’s still on the phone) and there you were with 40 black balloons and most of the office standing behind you. David still on the phone. You and I couldn’t
stop laughing. And we continued to laugh through spontaneous dinners, cocktails, limo rides to the Eagles concert, plant exchanges for the garden, long visits on the phone. Where we left off on our last chat was where we began the next. And you always start a tale with your infectious laugh. You’d take us up there where stress and heartbreak became a story we could manage, where fear and loss always had a brighter side.
I love you, Deb, always. My arms are around you, always.
Coworkers, buddies, friends, colleges, whatever
here's your spot
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
(Please email ryann.mccorkell@gmail.com if you want to add a story or sentiment to this page).
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