McLeod Family

Check out our new politician!!!

2006-12-04T18:52:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone

2006-11-12T18:42:00.000-05:00

Just a small note to tell the McLeods how the Brown family are doing. John and Joan are getting ready for their first xmas with Mackenzie. Jen is still waiting to hear from immigration and has moved into a new apartment and has began a new job. Sarah is busy working for UNICEF and planning a trip to Scotland with Alaisdair. Vanessa is busy with the baby, who is now 5 months old and has just enjoyed her first Halloween. I am loving Ottawa. My number is 613-808-7468. I am working at an Irish pub downtown called the Heart and Crown and loving it. I am getting my real estate license. Hope everyone is well.

Love
Mel

Thanksgiving 2006

2006-11-07T20:15:00.000-05:00

I haven't posted for awhile. These are from Thanksgiving, chez les Ibeys

Wedding plans are coming along....Ibeys are going to Costa Rica for New Years!

See you all soon.

A LONG TIME NEEDED UPDATE!!

2006-11-03T13:46:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone,

FIRST OFF: HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAYS TO LIZARD AND CARE!!! YOU ARE BOTH OLD, OLD WOMEN!!! GET OUT THE OLD LADY GLASSES AND CANES!

it has been a long time since I have written but I do check the blog often to find out what is going on with everyone!

I just got back from lunch with SMJ, Kelsey and Ash. We had quite the ladies afternoon because Nathaniel had class! We shared our youth with all of the lovely people at the convent! Sister Mary John is doing much better and looks great! She doesn't have her allergic reaction anymore and is in high spirits! She is upset that she missed her visit with her great,great grand niece-- and so am I as I have yet to meet little Mackenzie!! I did get to see the cute picture in SMJ's room though!

So what's happening at Queen's? Nathaniel is VERY busy with school and is always studying (HAHA)!!! Sci Formal is this Saturday and it is themed Neverland and I am very excited to go and see it! Ash has ridiculous amounts of school work-- assignments and exams EVERYDAY! she is hosting a party tonight for her housemate which I am attending! Kelsey is loving 2nd year commerce and is having a great time with her worst semester (in terms of work). And me? Well I am enjoying recruiting season! I have been wined and dined! I have had 4 first round interviews so far so keep your fingers crossed! I am going into Marketing and I am very excited about the opportunities available!

I do have pictures from SMJ's big birthday party we had here (and by big i mean all 5 of us!!). SMJ does love the phone calls and chocolate chip cookies-- only chocolate chip- so if you get the chance send some out!

I will keep everyone updated as things change here!

WHAT ELSE IS GOING ON WITH EVERYONE?!!?!?

Cheers,

Erin

October 25 2006

2006-10-25T13:24:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone, Just a quick message from Norhtern Alberia. I have to say that it has turned out to be nothing like I had anticipated. No there is no snow on the ground, yes there are trees. The Oilers are now 5-0 @ home, and the city is humming about the return of Lord Stanley's cup.

On a more personal note I have completed the 2006 season on Edomonton's prototype sand recycling project. We were able to recyle over 100 thousnad tonnes of sand to be reused on Edmontons city streets this winter. Although this may be a stagering number, there are still many refinements, concerning processing, that still need to be implimented. I've attached a couple of shots of the work site at the end of the season.

Thanksgiving was a good time. The Edmontonians took a trip down to Calgary, enjoyed company, wine, food, and a food fight to boot. Here are some of the pictures that I took myself, doesn't he look like an overgrown umpalumpa with brown hair?

As I was in the food fight your going to have to petition Uncle Bubba to post the pictures that he took. Here's the pumpkin pie that was umm a little burnt. Don't worry Ainsley I won't say who baked them ;)

Mackenzie's Baptism

2006-08-28T19:51:00.000-04:00

This is a formal invitation to anyone who would like to come to Mackenzie's baptism on October 1st at 1:00 in Kanata. Please just let email me and let me know if you would like to come.

Happy Anniversary

2006-08-27T00:58:00.000-04:00

A Happy 30th Wedding Anniversary to my parents!

John D

Family Visits

2006-08-16T10:42:00.000-04:00

Mackenzie has been a social butterfly the last week finally getting to visit with relatives. She survived visiting Uncle Rosie, had a lovely visit with Sister Mary John and spent the afternoon with some of the Price family.

She is now a whopping 10 pounds and has survived her first shots.

Another Dr. Ibey!!!

2006-08-11T18:13:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to spoil Jessica's news that she got accepted to doggy med school in Australia!

Yup, Jessies going down under to Vet school!!

Congrats Jess!

I'll let her fill in all the details I don't know....

Uncle Ken's Cottage

2006-07-25T08:47:00.000-04:00

Directions to the cottage for Saturday:

FROM Toronto: go north on Hwy 400/#11, north of Bracebridge, then turn east off #11 onto Hwy #117 to Baysville. At Baysville turn north on Muskoka Rd #2 (also known as Brunell Rd.). North on Muskoka Rd #2 about 4 miles to Muskoka Rd. # 9 (also known as South Portage Rd.). Then about 12km in on that Rd --- Prentice Cottage is located at #2779 South Portgage Rd ie. Muskoka Rd #9. Ph # for cottage is 705-635-3946

FROM Ottawa: Hwy 60 west through Algonquin Park to Dwight, proceed north of Dwight on Hwy 60 and look for Muskoka Rd #9 or South Portage Rd on your left, turn left onto Muskoka #9 and take to #2779 'Prentice Cottage'

FROM Parry Sound: Get to Main St. Huntsville, turn south at Lights onto Brunell Rd also known as Muskoka Rd #2, proceed south out of Huntsville to Britania Rd and turn left and follow Brittania Rd east out to Muskoka Rd #9, then turn right and proceed to cottage at #2779 South Portage Rd aka Muskoka Rd #9.

Bring swim suit/towel/favorite snack/beverage a fold up chair --- we'll supply hamburger/hot dog/veg/salad some drinks. Some are coming up for the day, some are coming on Fri night (we can't promise a bed), home sunday after Brunch I know some have to leave Sat night etc.. Does anybody play a guitar? --- Uncle Chris/David??

Spread the word!!

Congrats Shane and Lynn!!!

2006-07-17T22:59:00.000-04:00

Soooooo...if you haven't already heard....there will be a second wedding next summer. Shane and Lynn got engaged on the weekend. CONGRATS!!!

Cottage Day at Uncle Ken's

2006-07-17T08:24:00.000-04:00

Hey all,

Just a reminder that Uncle Ken has organized the 2nd annual cottage day on July 29th. It will be at the Prentice cottage and will again involve some serious water skiing, canoeing and swimming.

All McLeods are welcome!! Directions will follow...

Thanks,

Liz

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2006-06-23T14:02:00.000-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY M'REEN!!!

Enjoy your Cougar years...I hear they are the next best thing to the Golden Years.

Wish I could be there to celebrate. Hope you had a great day and I hope the weekend is even better!

Care

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MELANIE!!

2006-06-22T13:24:00.000-04:00

Melanie you join me at the mid-twenties now. Scary times!!! Have a great Birthday.

XOXO
Maureen

Mackenzie is here

2006-06-21T18:00:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to let you all know that we had our baby girl on Saturday, June 10th at 9:47 pm(that's right it wasn't a boy like everyone thought). Since she was 5 and 1/2 weeks early she was put into the special care unit because she was premature. We named her Mackenize Anne Kirtz (her initials are MAK)

We were lucky because they were able to give me steroids during labour to help develop her lungs before she was born. She was in an incubator to keep her warm and was jaundice so she had to have light therapy. We finally got to take her home Friday evening. Being in that unit made me realized how blessed we were that she was as healthy as she was.

My parents, Trevor's parents and my sisters have been amazing. They finished getting the nursery ready, went shopping for all the things we needed to bring her home (as we were going to do that when school was done) and my mom is staying with us for the week. If it wasn't for them I'm sure I would have lost my sanity long ago.

Unfortunately we will not be able to make it to the family reunion as we need to be careful about having Mackenzie around a lot of people.

We will try our best to keep you updated and hopefully we will be able to visit soon.

Vanessa and Trevor

Sister Mary John's 90th Birthday!!

2006-06-21T17:03:00.000-04:00

Hello All,

I was just wondering who was planning on making it out to Sister Mary John's 90th Birthday celebrations on the July 2nd weekend? We were trying to figure out how we could get a ride there but not back, especially with a rental vehicle?!? If anyone knows of a car or company with a car that needs to be returned to montreal or torontoish then let us know.

'Till that time here is some interesting sites about the origins of McLeod!

Take Care,

John D, et all

McLeod Family History
McLeod Coat of Arms
McLeod FAQ

CONGRATS TO VANESSA AND TREVOR

2006-06-12T08:03:00.000-04:00

Vanessa and Trevor welcomed a baby girl named Mackenzie into the world this weekend. CONGRATS guys!! Can't wait to see pictures!!!

Maureen

Need a little advise.

2006-05-29T19:14:00.000-04:00

Have any ideas. Check out my blog.

An Update from Europe!

2006-05-27T12:51:00.000-04:00

So it has only taken me what-- 5 months to post something from Europe!!! I have been reading the blog a lot but i haven't gotten around to writing anything! I have been having the time of my life in Europe.

The castle was UNBELIEVABLE! I had the most amazing time and have made so many great friends. The profs were great, class were fun, eastbourne (atlantis) was atlantis, rich and greg were amazing-- they nearly hit the roof when i told them who i was! I love having such a great reputation to live up to!!!

I spent most of my weekends going to London because i think it is the best city in the world. I love it there. It was so expensive but worth every penny! I met some true londoners and we went to real london pubs and clubs and I even ate at Brick Lane (the famous Indian Food Street) and had the best food! I am definitely going back to London and I would love to live there!

I lived and studied in Lille, France for 3 weeks and had the most amazing time! The pain aux chocolat killed me and the warm baguettes too. I have never tasted anything so mouth watering! I had such a great time there because I had some of my best friends studying there for their entire exchange so they really new the city!

I am living in Montpellier now (south of France) and i am having the time of my life. I had an adventure getting here with my HUGE suitcase from London but i made it! This was such a cool experience for me because I have never been to a city I don't know, not knowing anyone or speaking the language. I have since made great friends-- mostly swedish-- don't ask-- i really don't know why! We meet up most nights for a verre du vin rouge or blanc. I am taking french class in the mornings and then I try and hit the beach in the afternoon. There are so many different beaches that I am still exploring! I would really like to see little towns in the south as well so i am slowly but surely making my way around. I have been to Avignon and Nimes so far and have so many more plans!

Other trips I have taken since being here: Istanbul (WOW!!! Definitely recommend it to anyone), Paris (i'm going back-- i have to), Amsterdam, Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, Dublin, all of Scotland (i did a backpacking tour-- WOW-- we come from such an amazing place-- it is definitely one of the most beautiful places i have ever seen), Berlin, Budapest, Prague, Salzburg, and Vienna.

I am meeting my parents on August 5th in Barcelona and then meeting M&M in Crotia for a few days. I would like to see more of Portugal and Spain and Cinque Terre in Italy within the next few months.

I will be home August 20th and I will be playing slideshows of all my thousands of pictures for whomever is interested!

LOVE YOU ALL!!!

Salut,

Erin

Moving on, Moving out!

2006-05-19T09:16:00.000-04:00

Some more news from the Price front. I'm moving out! That's right-all by my tall self. I'll be checking in to my one bedroom apartment (approximately 5 blocks from aunt Jean's house and REALLY close to my work!) next week. Official move in date is June 1st but I'm able to start shifting my things in early.
I will definately host a house warming party but just need a couple weeks to get furniture/settled etc. I'll keep you all posted!
FYI-as work pays for my cell phone, I'm not getting a landline. I will still be able to be contacted at (905) 609-5497.
I'll post pictures asap for you all to take a look!

Hope everyone is doing well and keep updating this thing with the latest!

Liz

Happy Birthday Eabha and Congratulations

2006-05-10T00:30:00.000-04:00

This is just a quick post to with a Happy 2nd Birthday to Eabha! I've also meant to post a congratulations to: Elizabeth for the jobby, Caroline for finishing 1 year of law school, Hilary for finishing all of law school, my mother for finishing 1/5th of her B.Ed (with an A), and Heather and everyone else who completed another sucessful year of studies! Photos of Eabha's Birthday can be found on our site!

John D

Ora Exitus

2006-04-20T20:06:00.000-04:00

All,

So, the time has come for Hilary and I to depart the maritimes. With mixed feelings we'll be packing our stuff this weekend to head back west to Ontario.

We have absolutely loved living in the east coast. I can't do justice describing it in words you just gotta live here! In the two years I've been here I've really grown fond of living by the ocean and I'm afraid Lake Ontario or Georgian Bay just won't have the same feel like they used too.

Anyways, we are excited for the end of an adventure and the beginning of a new one.... We're going to try and make the best of "hogtown" in our time there.

Liz, I'm looking for work put a good word in with your boss....oh and can you mention to Maureen I'll probably be couch surfing at your place for a few weeks... :)

Hopefully we'll see everyone soon!

AI

Job Transfer!

2006-04-17T15:50:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone,
As we were all talking about the lack of postings on this great resource, here I am giving an update!
I didn't mention it on the weekend (at the Brown's family Easter for all those in the GTA) because I was too busy eating the delicious cake that Maureen baked *cough* I mean brought.
Well, I am transferring jobs. I am still working under the Bell Canada umbrella, but have made the move from Bell Mobility to Solo Mobile. A shout out to Aunt Taffy for buying one for each of the girls at Christmas! woo hoo!!
Anyways, this means more job growth opportunity, more money, better building and young co-workers. Yay!
I officially start in about 5-6 weeks...or as soon as my boss can post, hire and train someone new. If they're trying to fill MY shoes, I'd say it will take at least 12 weeks to train, but I guess we'll just have to settle. =) (hehehehe just kidding)
So that's my news. If anyone needs a discounted walkie-talkie phone (aka "10-4"), let me know!
Keep posting y'all.
Ttys!
Liz

COLDPLAY

2006-03-27T09:53:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to let you know that I might be a movie star!! My crazy friend Muireann and I decided that going to the Coldplay concert in Toronto on Wednesday was not enough for us since we are crazy obsessed and got scalper tickets for the floors on Thursday. Well worth the ridiculous price. The concert was amazing!! They filmed both days for their DVD and there were cameras all over the place.

I will be signing autographs if anyone would like one :)

Maureen

Oasis Tickets!!

2006-03-16T11:14:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone,

I thought Maureen's idea was a good one. I also have a friend with some extra tickets. They have 2 tickets for Oasis for Monday, March 20 at 8pm at ACC. Tickets are $75 or best offer.

Let me know if you're interested!

Liz

2006-03-16T04:33:00.000-05:00

It's TAX SEASON...just wanted to remind everyone that Maureen, Shane and Marc are now all fully qualified to offer you all FREE advice on your taxes. :o)

Happy St. Paddy's Day!!

Care
seewhatcaresaw.blogspot.com

Coldplay Tickets

2006-03-10T11:23:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone.

I have a friend that has two extra tickets to see Coldplay in Ottawa. If you know anybody that might be interested. Let me know!!!

I'm not sure what the exact seats are but I can find out.

Maureen

Some new pics!

2006-02-23T16:31:00.000-05:00

John David aka Mr. Price

2006-02-13T17:10:00.001-05:00

A big CONGRATULATIONS to John D who officially received his teaching certificate from New Zealand today. He'll be an awsome teacher and will bring some fantastic new ideas/styles to the classroom. Great job John! (I hope you like apples...)
Love,
Liz

Andrew and Hilary-CONGRATS on your engagement!!!

ENGAGED?!

2006-02-13T10:50:00.000-05:00

I have just been informed of an ENGAGEMENT!!! I feel like a reporter from US Weekly spoiling the news but I was given permission!

ANDREW AND HILARY ARE ENGAGED!!!!!

CONGRATS YOU TWO and I'M SO EXCITED-- everyone at the Castle also wishes you best of luck-- just the kids in res-- they think i'm crazy because i was just screaming and jumping up and down!!!

Erin
xo

Congrats Rebecca & Phill!!!

2006-02-05T22:47:00.000-05:00

It's a girl!!! Congratulations Rebecca & Phill....welcome to the world Felicia Breanne Peters!

She was big, 9lb 4 oz and 21 inches long

I'm sure there will be pictures to follow tomorrow.....Yay! I'm an uncle twice over....

Spread the word McLeods

JENS WEDDING PICTURE

2006-01-28T12:02:00.000-05:00

Jens Wedding Pictures

2006-01-28T12:00:00.000-05:00

Sarah has a website set up with all of her pictures from the wedding. Check it out. they are funny. love Mel

http://public.fotki.com/bohemianprincess/

ENJOY

More to follow

2006-01-27T17:51:00.000-05:00

Dom Rep Pics

2006-01-27T17:47:00.000-05:00

Alright I'm putting up one picture as a test to see if I can post...

Walk for Breast Cancer

2006-01-17T13:22:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone,

I just wanted to catch you all up on a little project of mine. I am participating in the 60km Walk for Breast Cancer this coming September. This may seem like a long way off but I must raise a minimum of $2000 to participate and this takes time!!!

As you all know, this is an incredibly good cause. We all know people who have been affected by cancer. Through supporting research for this cure, results can be transposed into several other cancers and areas in medicine.

Please go to the following link to donate online using a credit card:
http://www.endcancer.ca/site/TR?px=1114500&pg=personal&fr_id=1120

Thank you for your support and please feel free to call or e-mail if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Liz
(905) 609-5497 (cell)
(905) 212-1615 (work)

baby pics

2006-01-13T20:26:00.000-05:00

We just had the ultrasound done yesterday and found out that I am 13 weeks and the due date is now July 19th.

The baby was really active as it was rolling around. It looked like it was trying to suck its thumb (although it is a little early for that). The head is on the left and you can see the arm. The feet are at the top right(we think).

Pic-less

2006-01-11T12:21:00.000-05:00

Due to an unfortunate event, I have no pictures from our Dominican adventure. Can someone please post any/all of their pictures from Jennie's wedding and the vacation?? Also, can you send them to me via e-mail to elizabeth.price@bell.ca?!

Thank you! Much appreciated!

Liz

Updated Again..

2005-12-30T01:10:00.000-05:00

After a brief hiatus, www.eabhathekiwi.blogspot.com is back online! We will expect lots of photos from the contingent in the DR!!

John D et all

IT'S EMILY'S BIRTHDAY!!!!

2005-12-13T19:11:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Emily!
I had a great time visiting you, John David and Eabha & can hardly wait to see you again. I am so proud that Eabha is my neice and I am very grateful that such a competent and supportive person is her mother and my brothers' partner. I hope you enjoy the rest of your stay in Mississauga & highly recommend that anyone in the area take advantage of the opportunity to meet Eabha - she's so much fun:)
- back to studying for now - hope everyone is well

Big Pimpin'

2005-12-09T08:46:00.000-05:00

Big Pimpin'

This is just another funny picture from the ball... Dad and Chris

St. Andrew's Ball

2005-12-09T08:33:00.000-05:00

Hi Cousins!

This is two weeks behind but I thought I would post some pictures from St. Andrew's Ball. Mum, Dad, Aunt Ann, Uncle Ken, my Aunt Pat, Chris and myself were in attendance and had a great night. Much to my surprise, there were several young people. The dinner was awsome and everyone really got into the dancing. I recommend all who can make it next year to attend.

On a quick note, also an update that I am now a big Sister. No-you do not all have another cousin (haha), but I have joined the Big Sister/Little Sister program, and after a long 6 month interview process, have met my little sister (sorry for the run on sentence there...). Sabrina is 7, blonde hair, green eyes and is a ton of fun. Much to my delight, she's sweetly extroverted and loves to sing and dance!! (esp. to Mariah Carey! sweet!). Anyways, I'll keep you guys up to date on any info in that department, and hopefully Sabrina will get a chance to meet some or all of you throughout the year.

Talk to you soon and see you at Christmas!!!

Lots of love,

Liz

BABIES!!!!

2005-12-08T15:09:00.000-05:00

PLEASE allow me to be the one to spread the news...

VANESSA IS PREGNANT!!!!

Horray!!!

Perhaps you all know this already...but being out here on the west coast, I only find these things out through a very long and time delayed broken telephone.

I only found out two weeks ago that Becca is pregnant again too!!!

SO CONGRATULATIONS to Rebecca and Vanessa and the proud fathers to be!!

I wish the Browns all the best with the fast approaching wedding plans (wish SO MUCH that I could be there) and with the preparations for the new Baby!!!!

Love Always,

Caroline

ps....oops...was I allowed to tell ;-)

EXAMS!!

2005-12-05T01:39:00.000-05:00

Hello!!

Seeing as all of your thoughts and prayers worked so well on M'reen, Marc, Shane and Lizard, I'm sending out a general request that you throw some of that my way!!

I have a big paper due tomorrow as well as an exam (an important one!), and then two more exams this week and three next week. If anyone is speaking to Sister MJ, please ask her to find a nice soft cushion and get working on those Beads!

I'll be pretty much unavailable to the outside world for the next two weeks...but then I can't wait to see all of you back in the center of the universe.

Love always,

Care

SNOWING!!

2005-12-01T16:51:00.000-05:00

I know to most of you, snow is not a big deal, but here in Victoria it is a rare event that deserves recognition. Right now there is a blizzard going on!! I am a little worried because if this keeps up, we could be talking a few cm here, YIKES!! (haha)
This could be cause for panic, last time it snowed the grocery stores were emptied and no one left thier house for days. I know it sounds rediculous, but sadly true.
I don't know about you Care, but I didn't sign up for any of this cold weather when I moved out here!
Anywyas,
I just wanted to wish everyone who's in school goodluck for their exams and I hope to see you all over xmas holidays!!
Steph

Hold Fast

2005-11-29T20:59:00.000-05:00

Hello All...

I thought you might be interested in hearing the legend of where the McLeod Motto came from. This was spoken on RadioScotland by a poet McLeod in Scotland around the time of the G8 summit. It appears that this story is actually where the motto comes from and he was applying it to the G8 summit.

I'm going to tell you a wee story that I sometimes tell my kids. It comes from the Clan Macleod tradition. Many years ago there was a big feast at a clan gathering in Argyll, a kind of Highland G8. Right in the middle was a wooden stake with a poor clansman tied to it.

Word was, his only crime had been to take a deer from the hill to feed his family. Now, as a punishment, he was to be gored to death by a wild bull for the entertainment of all. But nobody said anything. Naebody, that is, until the chief of the Clan Macleod could stomach his dram no longer.

Quietly he stepped forward and faced the host. "Why don't you let the man go," he suggested, "as a gesture of your generosity?"

The host raised his arm. He pointed to the man at the stake. "You can secure his freedom, but only if you can stop the bull."

The gate was thrown open. The bull charged. Quicker than thought, Macleod leapt into its path. He grasped it by the horns. With all his power he wrestled it. At that, the crowd erupted, "Hold fast! Hold fast!" And he held fast.

The captive was set free and there was great feasting and what a party they had that night.

And to this day the motto of Clan Macleod is "Hold Fast."

This is how it is with the G8 today. The poor are tied to the stake. Our leaders have a chance to show whether their power is for greed or for service. They must decide whether or not to confront poverty and help end these injustices.

Let the cry of the people be heard: "Hold fast! Hold fast!"

Love Always,

Care

CONGRATS MAUREEN, SHANE and MARC

2005-11-25T18:27:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone,

JUST WANTED TO SAY CONGRATS TO MAUREEN, SHANE and MARC WHO ALL PASSED THEIR UFE!!! (that's the big accounting exam that they have been studying for!!) HAVE A REALLY GOOD NIGHT!!!

Erin

Employed

2005-11-25T13:39:00.000-05:00

Hello fellow McLeods.
Just a quick updated on things from Mississauga. I got hired by Bell for a permanent position after my four months working as a contract employee. What does this mean? Well, at Bell, going from contract to permanent simply means more pay, full benefits, free phone and 35% discount on all Bell products. Hooray for the perks!
This is pretty exciting because I am now changing over to work on Bell mobility (from Sympatico which is internet). That's right. I am one of those people that you will likely feel the need to vent your continuous frustrations about the poor service and high cost of your cell phone :) Job wise, its a much bigger "pool of opportunity."
Anyways, this means I will be rooted in Mississauga/Toronto until further notice. I know a lot of you come through our great city so please keep me up to date on your visits so we can meet up.
That's pretty much it for now. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone in December!!!
Talk to you soon,
Liz

World Swim for Malaria

2005-11-17T18:20:00.000-05:00

Hey Guys!
There is a fundraiser called World Swim for Malaria. It's aim is to have one million swimmers swimming on the same day to raise money for Malaria. So far they have over 250, 000 swimmers signed up. I recently signed up my swim team to participate in the event. So on Dec 3, we will join hundreds of thousands of swimmers across the globe in swimming for the cause of Malaria. The stats on Malaria are shocking. 3000 children die A DAY from Malaria, the number one killer of kids in the world today. Its just not neccessary. 100 percent of the money raised is going to buy mosquito nets, which have proven the most effective way of preventing it. Our contibution will be a hundred swimmers swimming 330km collectivly. Our swimmers range from 6year old beginners swimming a few hundred metres to Olympians swimming 6km. Its a great cause and I think this fundraiser is going to be a huge success. The site for more information is www.worldswimformalaria.com and our individual team site is www.worldswimformalaria.com/pcs where we are collecting donations. We aren't asking for much, just whatever people can give. A little bit from everoyne goes a long way, even saving lives. So please check it out and even if you can't donate yourself please pass the word along!! Thanks so much,
Steph

Greetings from Victoria to cousins near and far!

2005-11-10T15:13:00.000-05:00

Hey Guys!
I can't tell you how happy I am to be back in contact with all of you. It has been way too long! I have had such a great time catching up with Caroline and Wes here in BC and I can't wait to do the same with the rest of the family! So here is an update on my life: I am currently in Victoria at UVIC, in my third year now. I am studying psychology....well to be honest I spend most of my time studying the bottom of the pool, (200 legnths worth daily) and I take a few psychology classes on the side. Swimming is going really well right now. I had been struggling with an injury in my elbow this year but it seems to be under some kind of control right now. We started off the season in California before school started for a pre-season training camp and jumped right into hard training. When we got back, we were training 10 times a week, getting up at 4:45am, and 5-7km a workout. It was intense and I found it hard to have focus and attention in classes, or even be awake(its really embarrasing when you are startled awake in a lecture with drool on your shirt) but I finally got into a routine and things settled down. We had to get into hard training so soon because we had to be ready for Commonwealth Games Trials which are coming up in less than 3 weeks! So we are starting to rest for the trials, which are here in Victoria, so that's ecxiting. Commonwealth games is the only international competition that combines the Able-Bodied National teams with the Disabled National team in the same competition. Usually they are at different times just because of the large numbers of athletes, having everyone together would make the meet way to long. But at commonwealth games they offer two events for the swimmers with a disability to get our faces out there and get the message across that we are competing at the same level. I was able to compete at these Games the last time around in 2002 and it was a great experience. Unfortunatley the two events they are offering are not my best. I still have a shot at making it but it will be tight for sure. If I do make the team, the Games are in Melbourne Australia in March. JD- I am hoping to be able to stay and travel if I end up making it over there and I'd love to come to NZ if I have a chance to visit and meet Eabha and Emily! Anyways, thats all from me for now, but I will try and get the rest of the Downey's in touch as well. Matt is doing well, graduating UofT this year. My mom is actually looking for a job in Victoria!! Shes planning on moving here in Jan :D - im so ecxited!
Bye for now
Steph

A Mile (and a half) Stone

2005-11-08T09:21:00.000-05:00

Eabha is a year and a half today!

Bunnies @Uvic

2005-11-08T00:53:00.000-05:00

Well at least it let me post one of the Rabbit pics... more to come. UVic is over run with them.

Wes

B.C. Pics

2005-11-07T03:20:00.000-05:00

I thought you all might like to see a few more pics from B.C. since I am now an expert blogger
(and apparently not an expert student)

LoL,

Care

slowlygoingcrazyamI 654321 SWITCH

2005-11-06T23:55:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Just dropping in to say hello. Thank you for your birthday wishes. I must admit I spent my 25th in class and in the library...but it wasn't all bad. My friend Karen who took it upon herself to embarass me by having my entire Constitutional law class sing happy birthday to me. Sigh, only at UVic. A few of us also went for a quick dinner before buckling down to finish our assignments...and a classmate kindly bought me a hot apple cider which really made my day.

School is getting pretty overwhelming now. I got some great advice from an upper year student (funnily enough, I met him before school started, on a camping trip, and his name is Tony Price). He explains the law school cult phenomenon like this "being crazy with crazy people is ok, it's just hard to relate to everyone else."

I decided to mark my 25th year by going to another sweatlodge today with some other classmates, so I feel rejuvenated and ready (relatively) to tackle the next two months.

I do hope you all are doing very well. I can't wait to see everyone in December.

This is my first attempt at posting a picture. I hope it works. I don't want to shock you...but I'm afraid since starting law school, I've become rather pale and grown fangs. I think it has something to do with assisting in the bloodsucking that I hear comes later in my career... lol

Love always,

Care

"By the simple exercise of our will, we can exert a power for good practically unbounded."

Saturday Nov 5

2005-11-06T02:38:00.000-05:00

Happy birthday CARE!!!

2005-11-02T11:39:00.000-05:00

Too bad that your not going to be able to make it to the Mainland this weekend... just be sure that I will eat just that little bit more and do that extra lap in the pool @ the Fairmont ;) Have a wicked day.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARE!!!

2005-11-02T09:42:00.000-05:00

You have now joined the ranks of all of us over 25!! Aren't you so glad to be old!!!

Have a great day and have LOTS of drinks tonight ;)

Maureen

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARE!!!!!!!!!!

2005-11-02T08:10:00.000-05:00

Yes, its official. My big sister is now a quarter of a century old.
A big HAPPY BIRTHDAY from Ontario to BC Care!!
We miss you and look forward to your return in December. Have a good one! :)

Happy Halloween/Happy Birthday Elizabeth & Caroline

2005-11-01T06:41:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween to all, and a Happy Birthday to Elizabeth (31st), Caroline (2nd) and Patrick (3rd) (Emily's Brother). Halloween hasn't quite caught on here in Aotearoa/new zealand, but being the rebels we like to think of ourselves as, we did it up anywho with costumes and a potluck. Hopefully Halloween hangs around for a while longer in north america; it's my favorite holiday of the year.

I dressed up as a Spanish Anarchist, from the Spanish Anarchist civil war of the 1930's. Emily was a "Plant Faerie" *wink*. Eabha was dressed up as Loki, which we didn't get many photos of (in full costume).

After tomorrow (2nd), I'll have finished classes! I have one field trip on Friday, one assignment due on the 18th, and two day-long assessments. The bureaucratic stuff is winding down a little too. Some of the students in the program, and even some of our flatmates are beginning to pack things up.

Well that's it for now, enjoy the photos; we'll try and post again in a few days.

Peace by Piece,
John D

The many more Halloween/Other photographs can be found at

www.eabhathekiwi.blogspot.com

Trip to Calgary

2005-11-01T00:56:00.000-05:00

Hello Again Everyone, Just wanted to let you know that the Trip to Calgary was an completly utter success. I had a blast, nothing like drinking Corona's with the Mayor of Calgary, backstage at the Rolling stones concert. Here are a couple of the pics that I took some of Drumheller, some of The Zoo. Got to Run enjoy

having issues with posting to the blog check out the westcoastmcleods.blogspot for pics... l8r

Wes

McLeods missing from the site?????

2005-10-31T19:29:00.000-05:00

Hey!!

If anyone has Stephanie Dixon's email or anyone else that I missed - send me a quick email at maureenemcgillis@hotmail.com and i will add them to the site.

Andrew did you figure out how to post yet??? ;)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LIZ!!!!

2005-10-31T08:57:00.000-05:00

Have a great birthday Liz!! You are the big 2-3 now!!!

Maureen

MOVING OUT!!

2005-10-26T17:51:00.000-04:00

Yes, you read that right! I am moving out. As of January 1st, I will officially be a city girl living downtown at Yonge and Bloor. So, if any of you are in the downtown area - I expect a visit!!

Maureen

More pics

2005-10-26T14:37:00.000-04:00

Life is getting more and more hectic, but the end is near... I too will a little piece of paper that says that i can be taught. As a little treat here again are some pics from Last weekend in Victoria.... yes all three of us got some studying done.

Wes

Heather & Jersey

2005-10-25T23:14:00.000-04:00

Jersey and I are making it through (...slowly....but surely - I've never been a big fan of rushing) our 3rd year here at Brock, in St. Catharines (our apartment is about 10 min. drive from Niagara Falls). Actually, I've been doing most of the working, and Jersey has done most of the sleeping.
This year, I have finally decided to try follow some of the advise given by so many of you. I have decided to give the whole 'turning over a new leaf' thing a shot. I know it's still early, but this year is certainly off to a more promising start (especially for school). So, Thank You for the many 'words of wisdom'.
If anyone should find themselves in or around the Niagara region...the door's always open. John David & Emily, I am fully expecting you to come with Eabha. (Liz, you'll have to beat taking Eabha to see one of the seven wonders of the world to be 'her favourite', lol:)

Official Wedding Planner Nationally or Internationally

2005-10-25T21:09:00.000-04:00

Joan and John Brown of Stouffville, Ontario (formerly of Athens) are pleased to announce the marriage of their daughter Jennifer Melissa Brown to Santiago Almonte Ovalles of the Dominican Republic. The wedding will be held on December 30, 2005 on the Juan Dolio Beach at the Barcelo Capella Resort in Dominican Republic.

Can you believe that there are only 2 months and 3 days until the wedding. I can't believe it is coming so soon. We are all so excited for the day. Jen says hi to all and will hope to hear from you soon.
Well I must go now as I need to get ready for the little darlings tomorrow. I need lots rest to keep up with these liitle 6 and 7 year olds.

Tuesday morning.

2005-10-25T15:05:00.000-04:00

Going to post more pics.. slowly but surely

Update from Queen's

2005-10-24T21:26:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone,

I thought since so much of our family is here, at Canada's finest University, I'd give you updates! Kelsey (yes little Kelsey McLeod) came over for dinner last night-- she was procrastinating-- her first set of university exams are this week!

I saw Nathaniel (or Nate -- it's what people call him here-- weird!) at the library-- did everyone get that-- yep we study hard here-- never go out!

I haven't seen Rachael or Ashley since homecoming but we are all planning on meeting up soon to go visit the godfather aka SMJ (sister mary john) sometime in the next two weeks!

That's right-- we are her favourites because we take her out for dinner or we eat at her place. I'm trying to think of a good DVD to bring her-- any ideas? I was thinking Sister Act. Last time I brought Princess Diaries and she is STILL talking about it!

I'm in the middle of exams-- and trying to put together a halloween costume for my house! I can't believe it's almost halloween!

I'm in the midst of finding a job in London, England for the summer as I will be spending next term at the Castle. Anyone have a job for me? haha

Anyways, I actually do have to do SOME work and SOME point.

Did anyone else notice how Maureen started this and still hasn't written a comment-- who is she anyways?

I'm down for meeting up at Christmas-- I'll be home December 20 until the 25th and then from January 2nd-5th.

TAKE CARE,

Erin

Midterms in October

2005-10-24T15:05:00.000-04:00

Hello all, Just wanted to post a quick message saying that last weekend was the most fun that I've had in a long---LONG time. Got to give props to my Hostess' Care Price and Stephanie Dixon. Had tons of fun, eventhough Steph tried getting a game of animal farm going at the bar, too funny. I have taken loads of pictures some good some great and others well you know how it goes. Included is a couple of them, more on westcoastmcleods.blogspot.com.

I know you are all Jealous to hear that I rode in a Helicopter to get to the island. Through a network of wild co-incidences and a good looking smile I was able to do it on a student budget. ;) I'm writing 3 exams this week and then am off To Calgary to see the Rolling Stones in concert... yes your jealous and yes i will take more pictures. School is keeping me busy as it is for many of you, I hope that there is time enough in the day to take a minute. Have to run, exam in a couple of hours and my cheat sheet still needs a little work.

l8r

Wes

Some Blogging Tips For McLeod Blog Contributors

2005-10-20T21:51:00.000-04:00

Hello from John D,

Just thought I'd write up a short post to provide some instruction for folks who might not find the blogging technology accessible yet.

Once you respond to Maureen's invitation email (email: maureenemcgillis@hotmail.com to get one), you will have one of two options:

1. If you already have a blog with www.blogspot.com (very easy to set up), you will be asked to "accept the invitation"

2. If you don't already have a blog, you will be asked to create an account. This is simply a matter of coming up with an original username and password; and that's it!

With your username and password you can log in at www.blogspot.com and the next screen is the "dashboard". Once you're at the dashboard click the green cross icon under "New Post".

The next screen is quite similar to a word processor. You can type, use bold and italics, change the colour of text, left indent.... etc.

If you want to create a link, so that folks can click on a certain word to end up at another site like this, then:

1. Open up the other website you want to link to in another browser/window...
2. Copy the entire URL (website written in the white box at the top)
3. Go back to the other screen that contains your "New Post" for the blog
4. Click on the icon to the left of "left align" and to the right of the "T with the colours square". It looks like a world with a chain link over it.
5. Paste the URL into that box

It's actually much easier than I've made it sound. ;)

To add photos from a website:

1. Follow the same steps as with the URL/Links, but the icon
you want is to the right of the "abc with the checkmark/spellchecker"
2. "Upload Image"

To add photos from your computer:

1. Click on the icon to the right of the "abc with the checkmark/spellchecker"
2. Click the "browse" button
3. Find your image, highlight it/click on it, and click "open"
4. "Upload Image"

NOTE: Photos always appear at the top. To move them, just click and drag them down.

If you find weird computer language showing up in your post after bolding or adding an image or quote or url:

1. Go to the top right hand corner of the grey square that you've been writing in and select "Compose", instead of "Edit Html"

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

When you're all finished your post, scroll down at the farthest to the right on your computer screen, and at the bottom, click "Publish Post"

Just as with email, don't forget to "sign out", when you are finished
If you don't like how your blog post looks online, you can edit by:

1. Logging back in to www.blogspot.com
2. Click on "New Post", as if you were going to write a new one.
3. Click on "Edit Post" at the top left hand part of the screen.
4. Select which post you want to edit.
5. "Publish Post"

Any other questions can be emailed to socialecology@riseup.net

Hopefully I haven't made it more confusing than it is. You'll never know until you try. Come on Aunt Joan... Give it a whirl! :)

2005-10-20T00:02:00.000-04:00

hey everyone, i am trying to post a picture of me in cinque terre. thanks andrew and moe for suggesting in, it is a little piece of paradise in italy. hope all is well. For any travelling in italy, stop in cinque terre..we will make is a mcleod must see spot.
love
mel

2005-10-16T15:47:00.000-04:00

Another Left Coaster

2005-10-15T01:48:00.000-04:00

Hello All!

It's Caroline of the clans McLeod and Price, signing in from Beautiful (albeit rainy) Victoria, B.C.

A big thank you to M'reen for creating this blog masterpiece.

A quick update on me...

I am 1.5 months into my law degree at the University of Victoria. It's a ton of work and since I have the attention span of a fruit fly on Redbull...the work is piling up. On a happier note, I'm having a lot of fun as well. The kids in my classes are great and some of my prof's are cool too. So spending 20 hours a day engrossed in Torts (still don't know what that is, but when I find out, I'll let you know) and contract law isn't all that bad. The 'UVic Difference' (which we are reminded of at every possible occasion) is that we talk a lot about feelings and why the law sucks, and that people are relatively collaborative...so please don't think I've totally gone over to the dark side. I've also managed to tear myself away from the books for a few concerts that happen to make it across the pond to my Island. I highly recommend checking out the New Pornographers and K'naan if they come through your towns.

A bonus of being out here on the West Coast is that I am finally getting an embarrasingly late education on Aboriginal law issues in Canada. I have a number of new friends from various bands around Canada and recently had the opportunity to spend a long weekend on a Reserve with some classmates. It was such an amazing experience (despite waking up at 5:30am every morning to swim in the very cold Ocean) and this aspect of left coast law is really interesting. I'm still thinking of going into restorative justice and hopefully doing work specifically with young offenders, but hopefully my new exposures to environmental, human rights and Aboriginal justice will round out my focus.

To back track a bit further, I also spent the summer out here (during a brief stint as a Masters student...long story). I can't say enough about how beautiful my Island and the rest of B.C. is during the summer. I'm sure Wesley will attest to this claim and I encourage all of you to come over for a visit...the ocean, forests, and beaches will be especially nice during the winter months when I'll be spending evenings in a fall jacket by the beach while Ontarionians, Calgarians, and Nova Scotians are spending evenings trudging through -40 degree temperatures and Toronto slush! (Don't worry...I'm still a Leafs fan!).

One more thing is that I ran into our second cuz Stephanie Dixon, and while we haven't managed to meet up for a while, she's going to help us hold down the McLeod fort out west. I also met a set of McLeod cousins. I'm not exactly sure how they're related but from what I understand, Marlyn is my mom's 2nd cousin...which makes her kids our...3rd cousins? The kids are Jane, Anne and Patrick are really nice as is Marlyn's husband Nick. They even had me over for Thanksgiving dinner, for which I was - grateful. I'm sure they'd love to meet all of you some day.

My camera broke in a tragic dropping accident, but if I get some good pic's I'll send them out. If I can figure out a scanner, I'll send you all my pics from the McLeod castle in DunVEGAN Scotland.

Anyway, that's more than enough info about me (I'm procrastinating, can you tell? I'll keep you posted as I'm going insane around December exams...

I should be home around the 17th of December. I plan to spend three days trying to convince Eabha that I'm her FAVOURITE AUNT before she moves out the the Right Wing of the Country (!! You guys PLEASE move out west!!). It would be awesome if everyone in Ontario could meet up before heading to the Dominican or their respective vacation destinations! (I have to return back on the 3rd for school on the 4th of January.

I hope to see you all very soon and will look forward to checking this blog while daydreaming in Property law.

Love always,

Caroline

P.S. My BIRTHDAY is on November 2nd. I will be one quarter of a century old. I expect bagpipes and a million e-mails and for my birthday I'd like FREE higher education and a VW Bus.
P.P.S. My dear sister Lizard's birthday is on Hallowe'en. She would like a plane ticket out to Victoria, B.C.

PRICELIZ logs on!

2005-10-14T14:34:00.000-04:00

Hey Everyone,

Glad to see how eager the McLeod's are at taking the next step towards innovation...the blogspot. Its nice to have this as being cities apart can making keep in touch a bit of a task.

Anyways, as for an update on me, I'm still working at Bell Canada in their marketing department. I'm unsure at this point as to how long I'll stay. I know they're looking to make me a permanent employee, however recent job cuts and numbers are making that difficult...we'll see! Other than the job, I'm looking at being a Big Sister (Big sister/big brother) and have my interview (second last step in a very long process) next week. I'm really excited and I know its going to be quite an experience....

With long days, that should be enough to keep me busy for the next while. I'm still representing for the Price kids at home so I'll try to keep you updated as best I can. Being close to home, its easier to stay in touch with you all because our parents are much better gossipers than we are!

Anyways, please keep in touch and I look forward to seeing what everyone's up to.

Ttys!

Liz

McLeod Family Blog...Meet Eabha the Kiwi

2005-10-14T04:38:00.000-04:00

Hello all,

Cheers to Maureen for setting this blog up, a great idea; no doot aboot it! We will probably do most of our blogging on Eabha the Kiwi, and limit our participation here to the "Eabha the Kiwi" link on the right; besides major or occasional updates.

For the record. We will be in Toronto, from November 31st to December 20th; after which point we can be found in Halifax, Nover Scotier.

TTFN

John D, Emily, Eabha and Rowan

P.S, Hope you like the cheeky photo.

2005-10-13T21:20:00.000-04:00

hey everyone, this was a great idea for the website. i am currently taking a real estate course. i want to sell residential real estate. it is pretty exciting. i am looking forward to jens wedding, and being with family at xmas. hope everyone is well, can not wait to see you.
love
mel

Skydiving - My 25th Birthday!!!

2005-10-13T17:00:00.000-04:00

As some of you know.....I went skydiving for my 25th birthday. It was a crazy rush!! After studying for the school of accounting all June - skydiving was the best stress reliever you could ever get!!!

This pic is of Marc and myself just after we had signed the waiver taking all possibility of suing Toronto Parachute School if something went wrong.

Marc decided to take the plunge (literally) first! This is a picture of Marc landing with his instructor.

My turn!!! I'm getting suited up!!!

Meet the ghetto plane that took us up on our adventure!!

Yay!! I made it to the ground.....and no broken bones!!

Can we go again?!?!?

Maureen

Thursday Oct 13 2005

2005-10-13T16:39:00.000-04:00

Just dropping in to post a quick message, all is well here on the West Coast, the Worst days have now passed and working towards the future. Can't wait to see everyone again, Don't be shy if your in town (Vancity) drop me a line. Got to run Take Care, and always remeber to Hold Fast (thanks John). Chao

Wes

McLeod Family Blog

2005-10-11T13:56:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone!!

Welcome to the McLeod Family Blog. We can use this site to share news and photos!

Make sure you email me at maureenemcgillis@hotmail.com so I can add you to the group list so that you can post messages to this site as well.