tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-94372112011-07-14T20:41:08.427-04:00Experiments in e-journalism & musing from the wired worldRobert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.comBlogger1211100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-33522376296275465702008-06-13T10:45:00.000-04:002008-06-13T10:48:59.073-04:00

Franklin asks student to help change the world.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-77592857564512067682008-06-13T10:37:00.000-04:002008-06-13T10:40:41.094-04:00

Government, business and the public recognize the importance of a college diploma. And, she atlks about the efforts to train people using a college experience

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-49311843705003775892008-06-13T10:35:00.000-04:002008-06-13T10:38:41.272-04:00

She notes the contributions of Second Life and E-Journalism to make Loyalist a leader in the new economy. Urging students to be leaders within their careers, she reflects on her years with the Ontario Wine Council. She hopes students bring passion to their goals.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-63218624943584481002008-06-13T10:31:00.001-04:002008-06-13T10:35:30.877-04:00

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-54624117813835192492008-06-13T10:31:00.000-04:002008-06-13T10:34:57.491-04:00

Following thanking Piercy for her introduction, Franklin praises student for their accomplishments.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-69175764779641327002008-06-13T10:24:00.000-04:002008-06-13T10:28:17.954-04:00

College President Maureen Piercy is giving an introductory address before making her welcome to the guest speaker.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-12424594200410604952008-06-13T10:18:00.000-04:002008-06-13T10:21:59.048-04:00

After a lengthy speech recogni+ng special guests we are waiting for the convocational address by Ms. Linda Franklin, president of Colleges Ontario.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-15529569533894617522008-06-13T10:15:00.000-04:002008-06-13T10:19:36.081-04:00

We just completed procession into hall. The singing of the national anthem and a prayer.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-19036949793778493822008-06-13T09:53:00.000-04:002008-06-13T09:56:34.181-04:00

Lining up for grad hot as hell adam Wearing a black gown makes me feel like a ministerMatt

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-48262581920894752372007-07-28T12:25:00.000-04:002007-07-28T12:28:15.342-04:00

Well, it is two days after our return from New Brunswick where we were visiting our dear friends, Milne and Leslie. At the moment, it feels like a dream even though we spent a week. The days were packed with lots of wonderful activities. Each night we collapsed into bed exhausted, only to wake up the next day revitalized and raring to go again Our hosts were very generous with their time and

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-41073925246710244192007-06-13T07:47:00.000-04:002007-06-13T07:50:48.744-04:00

I am presenting a workshop on New Media to a group of officers training in public relation today in Orillia.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1153319424528285422006-07-19T10:26:00.000-04:002006-07-19T10:30:24.610-04:00

The merger of Bell Globemedia and CHUM received the expected threshold of coverage for a day or two, disappearing until the review process takes place. Commentary was limited in the mainstream media and the blogsphere to concerns around media concentration and consolidation of power over information channels in the hands a few.Something that is getting missed in all this is a debate over the

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1151018625044507682006-06-22T19:23:00.000-04:002006-06-22T19:23:45.093-04:00

With three runs scored, it was another outstanding inning for the Yankees.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1151016908957204762006-06-22T18:55:00.000-04:002006-06-22T18:55:08.956-04:00

Roseneath was three up and three down. Despite a great two-base hit, a double play made short work

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1151016478038821292006-06-22T18:47:00.000-04:002006-06-22T18:47:58.090-04:00

The Yankees came out blazing in the first inning with an amazing five runs. Bases were loaded and Brooke hit a home run, bringing in a total of four runs. The five-run limit rule means the side was ended.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1151014815926957462006-06-22T18:20:00.000-04:002006-06-22T18:20:15.990-04:00

Emily's team, the Yankees, sit at the top of their league coming into tonight's game against Roseneath.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1148763588954682242006-05-27T16:59:00.000-04:002006-05-27T16:59:54.316-04:00

It was close for a couple of innings, but Emily's team won in the last few minutes 6-2. It was a nailbiter as both teams played really well by the end of the game Emily was tired. All the crouching and standing up was demanding. She just loves to play. Unfortunately, she did not get a hit for two at bats. She was close, but did not make solid contact. It was a great day.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1148743198234379542006-05-27T11:19:00.000-04:002006-05-27T11:19:58.380-04:00

After the first at bat, no runs. Emily is back catcher.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1148741953995077752006-05-27T10:59:00.000-04:002006-05-27T10:59:14.540-04:00

Emily starts baseball today. The town held its sports parade, as teams from all sports walk down the main street. Here we are eights months after the last time we sat in Sinclair Park. This is not as strong a team as Emily played for last year. But the point is she plays and that is everything.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1148424848520789442006-05-23T18:54:00.000-04:002006-05-23T18:54:08.573-04:00

Following the long weekend, Emily's baseball practice was moved to Tuesday. It is still very cold,but at least it is sunny. Last week, it rained. Emily loves baseball. Yesterday, we watched a Jays game on television. What at treat! While she did not watch the entire game, she watched most of it. Today was also the school track and field event. Emily has demonstrated a talent for high jump. She

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1147737059427982172006-05-15T19:50:00.000-04:002006-05-15T19:50:59.450-04:00

Milne's BlogHere is a great blog from my good friend and beer-drinking buddy Milne Hall about his adventures in his new home in New Brunswick.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1147733163915605242006-05-15T18:46:00.000-04:002006-05-15T18:46:03.960-04:00

On a cool spring evening, baseball season begins with a practice at Westwood Park, a nice small children's space just around the corner. Emily is pleased to be playing. She spent a few weeks in the winter practicing with the Cobourg Angels, the local women's league. Two weekends ago, she spent an entire day with a women's coach for York University learning all kinds to things. Tonight, the drills

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1135968933876583472005-12-30T13:55:00.000-05:002006-05-06T07:40:12.426-04:00

Boxing week wouldn't be complete without a trip west to Oshawa mall for a big day shopping. So far we have been to Chapters, several card stores, two shoe stores, countless women's clothing stores and eaten lunch. Shopping could be an Olympic sport. Its a gruelling, grinding, tough haul. Right now there are about a half dozen men sitting on benches outside an Old Navy store waiting.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1135950499363355352005-12-30T08:48:00.000-05:002005-12-30T08:48:19.410-05:00

Emily stayed over at Madison's house last night for her first sleepover. It was seriouly weird not having her in the house at the end of the day. It makes you realize how much she is part of the routine of daily life. Bath, brush teeth, read a book,and then a kiss goodnight. Not surprising I did not sleep very well. It was a landmark We have had a few quiet days, swimming and feeding the ducks in

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1135692376924961392005-12-27T09:06:00.000-05:002005-12-27T09:06:17.080-05:00

Shopping. Boxing Day is about shopping. So, Michele and her good friend Sharie-Lynn spent most of the day doing just that. By 9 a.m., they were at the mall.Emily and I took off to Tim Horton's.for a hot chocolate and cup of tea. Then, it was off to the harbour for a walk along the beach. There are two resident swans and some ducks. It was back home. We picked up the shoppers later and then went

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1135608747758064452005-12-26T09:52:00.000-05:002005-12-26T09:52:27.833-05:00

After attending a lovely evening service at St. Andrew's Church on Christmas Eve, we had a quite evening. Emily opened her Christmas Eve gifts and got an ornament and a book. Christmas morning was crazy. We were up at 6:30, not particularly early by some standards. Santa arrived and stayed much too long. He left a far too many presents. Emily received a new pair of slippersn Scooby-Doo cuddle

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1135451934350909712005-12-24T14:18:00.000-05:002005-12-24T14:18:54.350-05:00

Just got back from Angela's, .ichele's good friend. She lives down at the corner. Her two girls are very sweet. We exchanged gifts and caught up on plans. We are getting ready to go out to Ray and Brenda's for dinner. We hope to be home in time for church

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1135451752536010112005-12-24T14:15:00.000-05:002005-12-24T14:15:52.603-05:00

Yes, I am going to try to blog this vacation. Stay tuned. I need the practice.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1133498818801725362005-12-01T23:43:00.000-05:002005-12-01T23:46:58.803-05:00

Going through a semester is a lot like swimming the length of a pool underwater. You take a huge breath at the beginning. Dive down and swim like hell. Half way you come up for a breath and drop under, swimming once gain. When you reach the end of the pool, lungs ache, head spins and you gasp for air. Yup, that is a semester.So, it is time to start back blogging about life around here. Not bad,

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1126383952182907912005-09-10T16:25:00.000-04:002005-09-10T16:25:52.246-04:00

Well, what a week! Finally got my new hard drive installed. It is going to take some time before it is back to the efficient system I had before the crash. Oh well. Emily had a pretty good week. She started learning French. So every chance she gets she is using it. Lots of bonjour. Unfortunately, on Thursday she fell and hit her head. Nobody would help her. Everyone just laughed. It really hit

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1126067552828436092005-09-07T00:32:00.000-04:002005-09-07T00:32:32.860-04:00

Emily enjoyed her first day of school. Mr. Gray will be her teacher, the first male teacher she has experienced as her primary instructor. He is from Australia and on exchange. He will leave at Christmas and the regular teacher will return. Emily will be learning French. She is quiet excited about this. We lot a full list of her new words when she got home. Grade 4 will be a challenge. But she

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1125944759343484652005-09-05T14:25:00.000-04:002005-09-05T14:25:59.370-04:00

Emily and I are back at Legion Fields watching the Cobourg Diamond Kings play a team from Aurora. Emily loves baseball, but gets a bit antsy sitting for a long time. She walks around the outside of the diamond to burn the excess energy. Our team is losing 3 to 2. It's great to watch them.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1125837829756678072005-09-04T08:43:00.000-04:002005-09-04T08:43:49.796-04:00

It was a crazy week. We learned yesterday that ggod friends of our are moving to Moncton. It is quite sad for many reasons. We see them regularly and they are very nice people. Last Sunday, we went to a Blue Jays game. They played the Cleveland Indians and lost. It was Emily's first time watching a professional game. We all had a blast. On Thursday night, I took Emily to watch a local Men's

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1125168957819081732005-08-27T14:55:00.000-04:002005-08-27T14:55:58.540-04:00

We won!The team bouced back and won the B Championship against Grafton. Emily played a great game. She hit a stand-up triple,batting in two runs. It was amazing. The best hit she has made all season. What a fantastic way to end her season. She hammered it down the third base line, all the way to the outfield. She put her head down and ran like the wind. Emilu is not a superb runner, but I swear I

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1125154979058445392005-08-27T11:02:00.000-04:002005-08-27T11:02:59.063-04:00

Emily just nailed the ball! She got a triple and drove in two runs.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1125153554974066262005-08-27T10:39:00.000-04:002005-08-27T10:39:15.106-04:00

Unfortunately, we lost our game. After an amazing start, with four runs, we died. The kids couldn't field the ball and we lost. Emily got so nervous she struck ou twice and missed a major play. She ran down the ball and then failed to throw it properly because she got flustered. She is a great kid.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1125148240816001332005-08-27T09:10:00.000-04:002005-08-27T09:10:40.863-04:00

Well, we made it. Here we are at the finals for the Cobourg Minor Softball League at Legion Fields. Emily is playing second base against the Red Soxs. This is the game to determine who will play in the final or for runners up. I have never watched Emily be so intense.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1125008456941455192005-08-25T18:20:00.000-04:002005-08-25T18:20:56.963-04:00

Here we are wrapping up our baseball season against our nemesis, Roseneath. This is a great group of kids on both sides. We will see. made the move into my new office. This forced me to go through my files. Threw out a massive amount of paper whew.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1124835878415879632005-08-23T18:24:00.000-04:002005-08-23T18:24:38.420-04:00

We are on the road again. This time it is a baseball game in Grafton, a small hamlet east of Cobourg. There is a massive recreation complex that is quite old with an arena built in the 70's and six full-size baseball diamonds. No soccer pitches here. Just the staples: baseball and hockey. This is the last week for Emily's baseball league. Ther is another game Thursday and the finals on Saturday.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1124835805816196652005-08-23T18:23:00.000-04:002005-08-23T18:23:25.856-04:00

We are on the road again. This time it is a baseball game in Grafton, a small hamlet east of Cobourg. There is a massive recreation complex that is quite old with an arena built in the 70's and six full-size baseball diamonds. No soccer pitches here. Just the staples: baseball and hockey. This is the last week for Emily's baseball league. Ther is another game Thursday and the finals on Saturday.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1124394994588731802005-08-18T15:56:00.000-04:002005-08-18T15:56:34.626-04:00

We made a trip to the dentist today. It is a follow up after our emergency last week. It is Emily's first time for a cleaning. So far, no crying. Maybe there is hope. York is slowly reviewing my application for the fall it will be a week to 10 day before I will get any news. While optimistic until now, I am quite concerned. Ther must be a review by the admissions committee, which I thought had

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1124378871738419902005-08-18T11:27:00.000-04:002005-08-18T11:27:53.270-04:00

We put a new floor in the kitchen Tuesday. It started a week ago when Home Depot came out with a flyer. Ther was clickable laminated oak flooring on sale for 99 cents per square foot. It was a great dealHeaded up to Peterborough after we picked up the new car. We saved a huge amount. I did an instructional course from Home Depot. It taught me how to lay the flooring we waited two days so the wood

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1124047076328272602005-08-14T15:17:00.000-04:002005-08-14T15:17:56.383-04:00

Well, it is a buisy day michele spent the morning making a cake. Emily got up and opened her presents. By 1 p.m., we were at the YMCA. Seven kids swimmoing and having a great time. Then, it was hot dogs, cake and ice cream. We finished off with playtime in the gym. Tonight, we will go out for dinner. Happy birthday Emily.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1123949332981165132005-08-13T12:08:00.000-04:002005-08-13T12:08:53.013-04:00

We went over to Cobourg Honda this morning to pick up our new car. We purchsed a 2005 Civic DX. It is a base model with roll down windows. The only feature we got wa air conditioning. We got amazing financing at 1.9 per cent for five years. This is the first new car we have purchased in 15 years of marriage. We figured by the time you buy a good used acr, the bank financing kills any break in

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1123803266252963892005-08-11T19:34:00.000-04:002005-08-11T19:34:26.303-04:00

Emily helped a young man find his lost glasses yesterday. The 18-year old kid was swimming when his glasses were knocked off. Emily had her mask, so she keep diving down in the water to see if she could find them. After an hour, and everyonelse had given up, she found them. What a hero. The kid was thrilled. Emily was so please with herself. Neat.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1123766025484418432005-08-11T09:13:00.000-04:002005-08-11T09:13:45.536-04:00

What a busy and stressful few days we have experienced. Sunday night Emily comes out of her room late at night to tell me she lost a tooth. It was one of the teeth we spent a fortune on getting filled last summer. Since I was told the dentist only fills adult teeth, I immediately assumed it had broken. After a nearly sleepless night (Emily is very frightened of dentists after several traumatic

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1123634967034362122005-08-09T20:49:00.000-04:002005-08-09T20:49:27.046-04:00

Emily is infested with head lice. Nothing could be worse. We discovered it after she complained of an itchy scalp. We checked her out a couple weeks ago,but found nothing at first. We thought it wa due to the sun. She often fails to wear her hat. It seemed a plausible explainationTonight, Michele was combing her hair. Normally, Emily does these things for herself. The comb was full of adult lice.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1123469151808732322005-08-07T22:45:00.000-04:002005-08-07T22:45:51.863-04:00

We spent an entire afternoon at Cobourg beach. It is so wonderful. We are lucky to have such a lovely spot. WI met a couple from Whistler B.C.with a 10-year old girl. Emily played with her for a while. They loved the beach.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1123363742315152482005-08-06T17:29:00.000-04:002005-08-06T17:29:02.350-04:00

Well, thebucket is finally done. After 304,000 miles, she has finally gave it up. Ealier this week we started having renewed transmission problems. We got it temporarily fixed, but to solve the problem was far too much. So today we did a series of test drives: Toyota Matrix, Corrolla, Hyundai Sonata, “ia Spectra, and lastly, the :onda Civic. The finance package did it. We bought a :onda Civic DX.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1123252485237248482005-08-05T10:34:00.000-04:002005-08-05T10:34:45.270-04:00

With Emily not going to day camp, our scheduke has slowed down. The persistent high temperatures are keeping us fairly inactive. We spend our days dealing with the heat, mainly by going to the beach. Still, there is something to do daily. Next week is Wmily's birthday. We are having a party at the YMCA. Kids swim and it is air conditionedIt is cool today to Michele is baking and pre-cooking a few

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1123031740864080162005-08-02T21:15:00.000-04:002005-08-02T21:15:40.893-04:00

We went in to Toronto today to get my transcripts from Ryerson and to hand deliver my application to York University. I thought it would be cool to take Emily to see 188 Hallam Street. It was shocking and amazing. Toronto has changed drastically. It is to the point where I barely recognize it. Yet, returning to these old stomping ground was incredible, seeing townhouses where Westmoreland United

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122842090758335422005-07-31T16:34:00.000-04:002005-07-31T16:34:50.923-04:00

Ut is a busy day. This morning we painted the kitchen. It looks good. It will take another cot before it is done. Michele picked the colour: corkscrew. Since all the appliances are unhooked, we went to a Chinese restaurant for a great lunch. Michele is exhausted, so she lied down. Emily and I decided to come to the beach for a swim.She is loving itWe hope to get a final coat on the walls before

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122746481699402582005-07-30T14:01:00.000-04:002005-07-30T14:01:21.730-04:00

We cane to the library today so Emily could focus on her book report. It is also air conditioned, so it is a nice place to work. We are participating in the TD Summer Reading program. The children read six books in six weeks. We are trying to get Emily to read every day, but it is a challenge. Too much like school, I guess. Most days, when she got home from camp, the energy is not there. So, she

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122670142159653782005-07-29T16:49:00.000-04:002005-07-29T16:49:02.170-04:00

We took a quick trip to Whitby to see the new Disney film Sky High. It is well done and has many of the great vaules included in those fantastic movies we used to watch as kids on Sunday night. It was neat to see Kurt Russell playing the role of the father. Emily really enjoyed it. So did Michele. I had some fun last night. My friend Milne and I cobbled together a simple web site about James

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122594047671752152005-07-28T19:40:00.000-04:002005-07-28T19:40:47.690-04:00

Emily just hit an amazing double,bringing in a run. Then, she got a run herself as the next batter hit a triple. Hooray!

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122589337556424292005-07-28T18:22:00.000-04:002005-07-28T18:22:17.580-04:00

Once again, we face our archrivals Roseneath, who beat us for the championship during the recent tournament. Emily said this morning she did not want to play. But she changed her mind. Slowly, the material for York is coming together. Found out today, when I was talking with the admissions office, the school's director had already laid the groundwork for my application. Michele finished am

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122504836758312042005-07-27T18:53:00.000-04:002005-07-27T18:53:56.770-04:00

After a few very busy days, there is a chance to catch up. Emily's last day of camp is tormorrow. She has enjoyed this week. But it is clear she is tired. I think her stamina is wearing out. Michele seems tired, too. She has taken up a crusade to remove all the clutter.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122225850545012512005-07-24T13:24:00.000-04:002005-07-24T13:24:11.400-04:00

Finally, a lazy day. After a gruelling day of baseball, it is nice to take a day and relax. We all went back to bed this morning. Feeling slightly refrshed, we did a few chores. This afternoon we are going to go see Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. It is nice to not be racing around. Tomorrow, we gear back up. Emily returns to art camp. I have quite a bit of writing to do and Michele

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122137455769041822005-07-23T12:50:00.000-04:002005-07-23T12:50:55.786-04:00

We won, again. After defeating the Crushers 9 to 1, we are on our way to the championship game. There is another competition involving catching. Then the fianl game.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122133298000837872005-07-23T11:41:00.000-04:002005-07-23T11:41:38.003-04:00

Emily is serious about baseball. I have never watched her be like this. She comes to me between innings asking to practice batting. She won't break. I say, “let's take a rest.” She syas, no. It's amazing. When she look down the pitcher. She has a look of dertermination on her face. It is wonderful.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122131322272800632005-07-23T11:08:00.000-04:002005-07-23T11:08:42.276-04:00

This is one of the best teams in the league. Emily only got to abt once during the last game. She also committed one eroor in right field. There was a base running relay between games. Emily's team won. Yea!!!

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122128259727162132005-07-23T10:17:00.000-04:002005-07-23T10:17:39.730-04:00

Our first game was great. We won 7 to 6. Hooray!!!

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1122122988633866312005-07-23T08:49:00.000-04:002005-07-23T08:49:48.666-04:00

It is Emily's first baseball tournament. We arrived at the diamond at 8:40 a.m. With th sun shining brightly and the heat building. It promises to be less humid. Nah. We play the Red Socks in our first game. Emily practiced hitting yesterday. Let's hope is bears some fruit. Updates will follow

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121985028182515422005-07-21T18:30:00.000-04:002005-07-21T18:30:28.206-04:00

Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz was right. There is no place like home. We arrived home this afternoon. There is a sense of relief. We had a ggod time. Emily made a goblet and a dragon. The items will be fired and glazed. Michele finished reading Harry Potter tuesday morning. I completed it yesterday. You have to read it.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121865146441694002005-07-20T09:12:00.000-04:002005-07-20T09:12:26.466-04:00

Emily enjoyed her pottery class yesterday. She made a dragon and a goblet. There was a special event at the library. The Indian River Reptile Zoo brought its travelling display. Emily got to pet a python she saw a turtle, a tortoise, and a baby aligator. Wow. Tony Quan, a respected tai chi teacher from Toronto, did an intensive workshop at the Stratford group's facility. There ere 96 people, a

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121777656201382312005-07-19T08:54:00.000-04:002005-07-19T08:54:16.216-04:00

A day passes quickly when having fun. Emily went to her first day of pottery class. The teacher appeared to be a nice woman. There are 15 in the class. They made pinch pots. Emily turned her pot into a purse. Michele went shopping. But first, we went to the Olympia restaurant for a snack. It is a wonderful diner with furniture and fixture from the fifties. Original stff. Not bought at an antique

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121697547131135522005-07-18T10:39:00.000-04:002005-07-18T10:39:07.173-04:00

And yet another day of extreme temperatures, despite thuderstorms last night. Weather. It is all Canadians ever talk about. Emily started her pottery lessons this morning. She was very excited and nervous. She was quietly telling herself to relax as we walked toward the studio. The studio is located in an old factory near the indstrial side of the city. It iz called the Amazing Clayworks. We hope

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121619119832674142005-07-17T12:51:00.000-04:002005-07-17T12:51:59.860-04:00

It has been two very busy days. Yesterday, after the Harry Potter celebrations, we had lunch at DQ and decided to look for a new mattress. Our current one is pretty much gone after 15 years. Once we got home, Emily and I went swimming with friends at the pool downtown. It was really nice. Then, last night was spent preparing for our trip to see grandma. We rose at 5 a. m. To get away before it

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121516688386650222005-07-16T08:24:00.000-04:002005-07-16T08:24:48.416-04:00

We are going to the library this morning to enjoy the celebrations around the launch of the new Harry Potter book. It is going to be another day of hot, humid weather. We may try to find our way to the beach.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121448979798895142005-07-15T13:36:00.000-04:002005-07-15T13:36:19.836-04:00

Well, I am no longer alone. Bailey was diagnosed with diabetes. She displayed all the symptoms I showed a year ago. She was peeing a lot, lost weight, sick when she ate, etc. She is taking insulin. I am going to be giving her a needle each day. I still can't believe she is diabetic. Emily won her ball game last night. She made an excellent hit. She also made a couple of great throws from the

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121380764024130342005-07-14T18:39:00.000-04:002005-07-14T18:39:24.056-04:00

Another hot day, but a few drops of rain from a thunderstorm that passed by left us with cooler air. Grandpa and grandma are here from Scarborough. It's a beautiful night for a baseball game.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121286806024715452005-07-13T16:33:00.000-04:002005-07-13T16:33:26.060-04:00

Yet another sweltering day and we seek refuge at the kids splash pad in Victoria Park. Kids of every shape, size and age are here. Heck, yesterday I even to on it for a few minutes to get cool. Art camp is going well. This week's thme is pre-historic times. They learn about cave painting and pictograms. They also learn about pottery. The group crated its own cave painting on a huge piece of

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121207148129519492005-07-12T18:25:00.000-04:002005-07-12T18:25:48.153-04:00

I now know hell. While some may believe hell is a state of mind, I can tell you, it is a summer day in Ontario. It is hotter than Hades. I would swim in the river Styx for relief. We are at the library waiting for Emily to give her report for the summer book club. We do this every year. It is sponsored by TD Bank. The kids read six books over six weeks. Each week they report to the children's

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121120544128214042005-07-11T18:22:00.000-04:002005-07-11T18:22:24.156-04:00

Well, we are back at it. Emily started her second week at the art camp. Today, they did clay sculpting Emily made a ladybug. I wrote two editorials for an agriculture publication, the Pioneer country edition. Then, I had my own column to write. I got some good vibes from an editor of a local high-end magazine about a proposal for a regular column. It's a great opportunity. I will see her tomorrow

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1121007870038894362005-07-10T11:04:00.000-04:002005-07-10T11:04:30.080-04:00

It is becoming a really hot day. I was sweating while watering the plants this morning at the garden centre. I think we will retreat to the beach to swim this afternoon. With any luck it won't be too crazy. If it nuts maybe the YMCA. Stay cool.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1120939241677583562005-07-09T16:00:00.000-04:002005-07-09T16:00:41.706-04:00

Boy, it was busy. No time to stop and sit. Amazing he number of people who are still buying flowers. Had lots of fun yesterday. Bought Emily her first baseball bat. She needs the practice. Going to be back at the garden centre in the morning.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1120865550109448942005-07-08T19:32:00.000-04:002005-07-08T19:32:30.136-04:00

The highlight today was going to see the Fantastic Four at the movie theatre in Whitby. We saw the first show on the first day. I don't think any of us hae ever done this before. The movie was wonderful. Michele said she liked it. This is a huge endorsement. She does not always like this genre. We saw Batman Begins. She hated it. She loved both Spiderman flicks. She hated the Hulk. Emily loved.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1120776866430016752005-07-07T18:54:00.000-04:002005-07-07T18:54:26.436-04:00

Emily looks like Geena Davis in the movie A League of Our Own. She is so cute.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1120775677114600292005-07-07T18:34:00.000-04:002005-07-07T18:34:37.116-04:00

Oh no. Emily has volunteered to be catcher tonight. The team is short. Good luck to her.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1120775363327940642005-07-07T18:29:00.000-04:002005-07-07T18:29:23.346-04:00

This is coming to you live from Emily”s baseball game at sinclair Park. We are waiting for the game to start. Michele is at home waiting for a friend to pick her up for an evening out. Having two games in a week is a big deal. Emily feels good. After the baseball game we are going to Dairy Queen for a treat. Wish you were here.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1120747669719625192005-07-07T10:47:00.000-04:002005-07-07T10:47:49.756-04:00

Sitting in the basement is a cool alternative than going upstairs where it is terribly hot. Emily is enjoying her last day of camp this week. There is an art show at 3 p.m.She is visibly tired. It has been a busy week she has another baseball game tonight

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1120668486767282582005-07-06T12:48:00.000-04:002005-07-06T12:48:06.793-04:00

My boss at the garden centre decided to take the day to visit friends in the Guelph area. It means I am all alone to run the shop. It is quite a bit of work. Water, water, water. That is the order of the day. With all the heat and wind, the plants dry out quickly. It is aslo pretty steady, as customers trickle in. It is never an onslaught or dead. Constant. Emily played baseball last night. The

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1120588131972207502005-07-05T14:28:00.000-04:002005-07-05T14:28:51.976-04:00

Just spent 40 minutes waiting for a blood test. The drawing of blood takes 30 seconds. One vial ia all. But the local lab has a monopoly. Some people waited an hour this morning for test. There was a man in a wheelchair, who had been fasting nearly 18 hours. He was not given priority despite his handicap and his fast. The lab also has rules regarding early morning tests. No non-fasting test done

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1120571807164019362005-07-05T09:56:00.000-04:002005-07-05T10:32:47.090-04:00

It is a myth. Vacations are not about resting. It is a time to do other things. It is the old adage: a change is as good as a rest. Yesterday was a perfect example. The day began with Emily going off to camp. She had a great day painting, doing paper mache, and clay creatures. The theme is Under the Sea. Emily is working on a paper mache octopus and painted an undersea landcape. She made a snail

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1120479876449233022005-07-04T08:24:00.000-04:002005-07-04T08:33:09.156-04:00

Emily's first day of camp is today. She is very excited. She is dressed, with her teeth brushed, and hair brushed more than 30 minutes ahead of time. On a normal school day it would be a battle. She is enrolled in an arts and crafts day camp for young children just north of Cobourg in Hamilton Township. She has been here before. We are all excited for Emily. New friends. Having fun. It is the

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1112038964735084732005-03-28T14:42:00.000-05:002005-03-28T14:42:44.736-05:00

We are waiting for Grandma at the Cobourg train station. She is 25 minutes late. We do not mind waiting for her because there are lots of things to do at the train station. We can read, look around, wonder aimlessly, or talk to each other. We love Grandma. Emily and Dad

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1111871308807747042005-03-26T16:08:00.000-05:002005-03-28T14:43:30.963-05:00

We are waiting for Grandma at the Cobourg train station. She is 25 minutes late. We do not mind waiting for her because there are lots of things to do at the train station. We can read, look around, wonder aimlessly, or talk to each other. We love Grandma. Emily and Dad

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1105863918054306062005-01-16T03:25:00.000-05:002005-02-18T10:20:49.336-05:00

Sign in casino: you must be present to win.How zen.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1105820988802857402005-01-15T15:29:00.000-05:002005-01-15T15:29:48.803-05:00

Technology is a wonderful thing, when it works.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1104940154403804662005-01-05T10:49:00.000-05:002005-01-05T10:49:14.403-05:00

1. Schedule - iCal2. Review technology3. Protocols- notes vs. writing- file full story- commentary/debrief

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1104938430606292582005-01-05T10:20:00.000-05:002005-01-05T10:20:30.606-05:00

Journalism is life!First year students are receiving an orientation session around working for the campus/community newspaper published at Loyalist College.The messages these students are getting are so important: dedication, hardwork, and joy.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1104608487609412152005-01-01T14:41:00.000-05:002005-01-01T14:41:27.610-05:00

Have a great 2005.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1104442015936394852004-12-30T16:26:00.000-05:002004-12-30T16:26:55.936-05:00

Husbands make great journalists. We are used to waiting. A lot.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1104256918178869782004-12-28T13:01:00.000-05:002004-12-28T13:01:58.176-05:00

Coming to the YMCA to swim is fantastic. My daughter and her friend are having a great time.It is unfortunate to see how much the Y charges to get in. It was nearly $15 for two children and one adult. It is less than a movienbut still seems like a lot. There are many who cannot affrd this. A free swim, especiallly during the holidays would be an excellent idea. Tim Horton's sponsors a free skate

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1104184181023916862004-12-27T16:49:00.000-05:002004-12-27T16:49:41.023-05:00

The modern version of the medieval Catholic church is shopping. The mall is the equivalent of a church where consumer worship the doctrine of capitalism. To sit and wait is hell or maybe it is purgatory.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1103631549563493912004-12-21T07:19:00.000-05:002004-12-21T07:25:53.126-05:00

It is amazing to hear Councillor Pam Jackson outline her concerns about young peope regarding the use of a laneway, suggesting they will go there to use drugs and have sex. This is the same woman who gushed enthuiastically about youth involvement in municipal politics during the last election. It should not be a surprise. Let's hope nobody forgets this come next election. Youth seem to be

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1103630695293713542004-12-21T07:04:00.000-05:002004-12-21T07:19:03.416-05:00

Only half the property is in heritage area,making the parking lot within the heritage zone. The building is not.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1103630558403847562004-12-21T07:02:00.000-05:002004-12-21T07:02:38.403-05:00

Several developments were moved forward as council gave approvals to key developments including a new Shopper's Drug Mart.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1103628479486999582004-12-21T06:27:00.001-05:002004-12-21T07:18:16.783-05:00

The front of a new Shopper's Drug Mart will not meet the town's heritage bylaws, despite more than a $1 million rennovation.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9437211.post-1103628443339333992004-12-21T06:27:00.000-05:002004-12-21T07:15:28.103-05:00

More information was presented as landscape architect Miriam Mutton raised concerns over a memo being presented to council tonight. Working her way through the memo's content, she expressed serious concern over the lack of public information. She is calling on council to be more open.

Robert Washburnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04120083910821033318noreply@blogger.com0