tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60074351432937770682024-03-13T09:48:36.577-06:00Divulge with DaniMain Entry: di·vulge
Pronunciation: \də-ˈvəlj, dī-\
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s): di·vulged; di·vulg·ing
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin divulgare, from dis- + vulgare to make known, from vulgus mob
Date: 15th century
1: to make public : proclaim
2: to make known (as a confidence or secret)Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.comBlogger140125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-72269780922617470662017-09-29T12:59:00.002-06:002017-09-29T14:52:36.374-06:00On Leadership & Revivals.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello faithful readers of five! I just want to warn you that immabout to get political here, which is a departure from my usual style of writing about important topics such as <a href="http://divulgewithdani.blogspot.ca/2009/03/catch-up-post-3-dilf.html" target="_blank">DILF</a>'s (which BTW, I totally need to revise that series). <i>Disclaimer </i>(just in case five new people read this): I'm not a long time entrenched member of conservative parties in Alberta, although I've been a member of the PCAA since 2014, and was grand-fathered into the UCP. I'm not overly politically active as far as conventions and local party level, although my armchair rants on Twitter <strike>make me an expert at all things Alberta Politics</strike> are generally well received. I'm also not a sophisticated <strike>person</strike> blogger.<br />
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Last night, I attended my first political debate ever. It was for the leadership race of the newly formed United Conservative Party. I even dressed up for the event sporting a snazzy blue and white maxi-dress that resembled the logo (sadly, peri-menopause hot flashes combined with lion frizz hair made me look like a flush & frizzy blob last night). Not really having any connections & being a general nobody, I demurely walked down the hallway. I thought it wise to pick up a few campaign buttons to blend in the crowd, like camouflage. What I didn't realize is that I would choose to sit what became the Jason Kenney fan club section, the one campaign I didn't have a button for. D'oh! I initially sat alone, and that stayed that way throughout the debate with nobody approaching me to chat (although maybe wearing the Jean and Schweitzer buttons in the Kenney ghetto wasn't the way to make friends.)<br />
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My goal wasn't so much to hear about policy. Policy minutiae bores me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3DHNYHqwJAYClwGMxEeiG8KSLOzbg0bpSeZosvOMJylcwYWE8OmzmJtNM96gSWxSvTdN15zLjtMC4d3N7wK0IEAMSFH6qgI11Q1uZr4ZXf5M_fsNPBnJP8Dr_eisE6XU9rjlnez8N2Y/s1600/bored.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3DHNYHqwJAYClwGMxEeiG8KSLOzbg0bpSeZosvOMJylcwYWE8OmzmJtNM96gSWxSvTdN15zLjtMC4d3N7wK0IEAMSFH6qgI11Q1uZr4ZXf5M_fsNPBnJP8Dr_eisE6XU9rjlnez8N2Y/s320/bored.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me listening to policy.</td></tr>
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My goal was to observe each candidate and decide who had the qualities to unite the two silos that have emerged in the party, reach out to those who don't live an breathe this stuff, and have the ability to adapt their decision-making to the circumstances before them. <b>Real talk:</b> policy and stances are good, but <i>if</i> one was to win the leadership & general election, they have to be able to deal with what is before them in the circumstances around them.<br />
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My observations of each candidate:<br />
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<b><u>Doug Schweitzer</u></b><br />
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<b>The good:</b> Presentation wise, Doug was clearly the most comfortable in public speaking in a way that doesn't scream polished politician. His hand gestures were natural. He was Obama-esque in the way he presented himself. His thoughts on social issues, particularly GSA's, is exactly correct. Let's face it, we don't live in a world where All in The Family is the hot new show, and where AM GOLD & American Bandstand are the only ways to hear music. Doug best represents that shift in many ways when it comes to conservatism and social issues.<br />
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I also want to point out that while he didn't necessarily win the applause-o-meter race, when he spoke on social issues and GSA's and youth, there were a lot of heads nodding in agreement in the Kenney section, and indeed the whole room. That was something you wouldn't observe if you were simply tuning in online.<br />
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<b>The not-so-good:</b> For all the progressive stances on social issues, he is incredibly rigid to small "c" fiscal theories. He's even more a hard-assed fiscal conservative then the other guys in the room, which kind of surprised me and challenged my notion of him. I think this rigidity lends itself to the feeling that he wouldn't be flexible on issues where leadership demands the flexibility, even if the ideas are worthy of consideration. In many ways, he kind of reminds me of a laid-back version of Derek Fildebrandt. <i>(Disclaimer: unlike many, I actually like Derek personally and this isn't a slag on him)</i>. Derek Fildebrandt is a Libertarian, and I'm not sure he would ever stray from that theory. To the same extent, I can't see Doug straying from the fiscal theory he ascribes to.<br />
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<b><u>Jason Kenney</u></b><br />
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<b>The good: </b>Maybe I went in with pre-conceived notions about him built up by his opponents, but when it came to presentation, I found him...dare I say it...warm? Friendly? He clearly is a career politician and it shows. He knows how to work a crowd, say the things they want to hear, and is not short of sound bites and platitudes. He comes off as by far the most knowledgeable about pretty much every situation. He lives and breathes politics and that came off clearly. There were some points where I actually agreed with him, and I kept waiting for the rapture to happen in shock of those feelings.<br />
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<b>The not-so-good: </b>He's a career politician and it shows, to the point where I felt at most times that he wasn't authentic. Does he even know who he himself is beyond the script? I felt like with the other candidates, I understood who they were and where they came from. With Jason I felt like we got to know who he wants us to know about him. Does he have any depth beyond being a politico 24/7? The *closest* I got to feeling like I knew him on a personal level was when he talked about his father's death. It was at that point when I sat up and really noticed him. For all this talk about him being a populist and a Ralph Klein 2.0, he isn't Ralph in the least. Love him or hate him, Ralph brought a genuine "one of us" authenticity that I don't think Jason has the capability of bringing or being. He could unite the party, but I'm not sure he could win the election without coming out with dirty hands (that could damage the party irrevocably, especially if he lost).<br />
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<b><u>Jeff Callaway</u><br /><br />The good: </b>Umm. Uhhhh. Ummmm. He has an occasional good idea every now and then? Maybe?<br />
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<b>The not-so-good: </b>At one point, I tweeted: "Is Jeff Callaway drunk? He sounds like he had a liquid lunch. Campaign Crooner." I was 98% sure he had a few too many pre-debate wines. I mean, never mind his pompous attitude and smarmy responses. Never mind his outright dick comments towards Brian Jean (which garnered boos from even some in the Kenney ghetto where I sat). Does he need an intervention for alcoholism? He stood there with his hand in his pocket (weird!) and even on occasion winked at people in the crowd. He looked like Dean Martin at a Celebrity Roast. Judging by the faint applause in the crowd, he's a pretender. Hell, even Jason Kenney at one point gave him a "dude, WTF" glance.<br />
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Look, I get it. I used to work in the investment industry, and brokers need a bit of chutzpah and smarmy charm to win clients and sell products. I was surrounded by no shortage of Jeff Callaways' in my career. But he had ZERO leadership qualities to run a party. Less then zero.<br />
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<b><u>Brian Jean</u></b><br />
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<b>The good: </b>I genuinely felt he was sincere. I genuinely felt he was authentic. He was calm. I genuinely felt he would be the type of leader who would be firm but flexible and compassionate. He won the night in many ways, sans the trendy soundbites. He definitely improved upon the debate in Calgary, where I felt watching in online that he was wooden and too composed. He's not a natural politician, but he seems to more open to the real struggles someone like me faces then the theoretical model of how Alberta should look under <insert conservative="" here.="" model="" theory=""><br /><br /><b>The not-so-good: </b>I'm not sure if this big debate style format really works for him as well as smaller town halls and meet-and-greets. I've seen videos of those and he is far more natural and in his element. But in large debates, he at times comes across wooden and robotic. Is that a bad thing? I don't know. But in a format where people like Kenney & Notley shine, he would have to really stretch out of his comfort zone to match them on a consistent basis. And of the four, judging by the atmosphere in the Kenney ghetto I sat in, will he be able to unify the party? Maybe, maybe not. But his style I think would appeal to general Albertans more to win a general election without damaging the party.<br /><br /><b><u>Final Observations</u></b><br /><br />What surprised me was how much energy was in the room. Online, I sit there in my pj's in total indifference. At the actual debate, even on topics I didn't care about, I was clapping like I was at a revival. I get why people go to these things. And quite honestly, I think everyone should go to at least once. The topics take on different layers when you are in the audience, feeding off of other people's responses and reactions.<br /><br />I don't think the broad stroke policy differences were really that vast, but at the same time, there were distinct differences in the finer details.<br /><br />It's clear that the two front-runners are Brian Jean and Jason Kenney. You can tell by the reaction in the room. I thought the reactions to both candidates were fairly split, despite what media reports say. The both come with pros & cons, but I think the decision for members will come down to what the end game is for them personally.<br /><br />Myself, because I was focusing on leadership qualities more than policy, I walked away feeling like Brian Jean was my guy. It's a gut feeling sometimes. (Edited to add: I feel he can appeal to the grassroots, where as Jason will only appeal to a patch of grass that can buy better fertilizer). Y'all can make your own decision.<br /><br />In post-debate conversations with a few friends I met up, what became clear is that people are ready to move on and start talking party policy and getting ready for the general election, regardless of who wins. I walked away with the feeling that despite the differences, most of the membership will put aside their differences and rally behind whoever wins, even if they have to plug their nose to do so.<br /><br />The best parts of the evening was meeting some quality people I knew online and forming friendships...finding out that despite how others portray their ideological opponents, most in the crowd were down-to-earth and nice people who don't look or act any different then my friends on the left...that politics can be fun and exciting...that it's OK to agree and disagree on policy even in your own party...and that it's important to get involved.<br /><br />I hope to see more progress on social issues, despite the want by the leadership candidates to avoid addressing them head on, even if the feeling by some that the views of the party about these issues are unfair. Maybe so, but some are. Deal with it.<br /><br />If you've made it this far without nodding off, congrats! I hope I provided a different perspective on things, one that isn't burdened by the baggage of long-standing grievances or tribalism perspectives.<br /><br />I welcome your comments (but will delete anybody who acts like a dick. My blog, my rules).</insert>Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-53049803076065268192017-05-04T11:59:00.004-06:002017-05-04T12:12:09.049-06:00A Right Royal Rumour<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPwu1VERXWRtHWGvLoGgXGYZFRyIlF9-cyi3zZyKXdxLj5F1QWm8kd8d696kregnWYysHgBqKDtCcmOTQOynHCBRoZIPP7s-ZqTgDR9ygzLQMIIo4stmb5e7h7nGAHxlqC89w3O1ZIWj0/s1600/LizPhil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPwu1VERXWRtHWGvLoGgXGYZFRyIlF9-cyi3zZyKXdxLj5F1QWm8kd8d696kregnWYysHgBqKDtCcmOTQOynHCBRoZIPP7s-ZqTgDR9ygzLQMIIo4stmb5e7h7nGAHxlqC89w3O1ZIWj0/s400/LizPhil.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II & HRH Prince Philip<br />
Source: Buckingham Palace/The Royal Family</td></tr>
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Hello faithful readers of five,<br />
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It's been way too long since I last blogged, but I'm back! If any topic was going to drag me back into blogging, you know it was going to about the Royal Family, right?</div>
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A curious incident happened last night. News broke on Twitter, initially from a news organization in New Zealand, that royal household staff from as far away as Sandringham, Windsor, and Balmoral Castle had been notified to attend an "emergency 3 am meeting" at Buckingham Palace by Lord Chamberlain (Senior Officer of the Royal Household) and Sir Christopher Geidt (Her Majesty's Private Secretary). Further, there was to be an "important announcement" at 8 a.m.</div>
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Immediately, the <a href="http://metro.co.uk/2017/05/04/theories-behind-the-emergency-meeting-at-buckingham-palace-6614693/" target="_blank">rumour machine took off.</a> I read everything from the death of Prince Philip to Prince Charles, to abdication rumours, to simply making plans for palace renovations. The one that seemed take hold was the death of Prince Philip. </div>
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In fairness, life is not infinite, so assuming someone at the age of 95 passed away isn't that far out of the realm of possibility. There were tweets by citizens that the flag above Buckingham Palace was at half-mast and that the death was reported on British radio. Furthermore, articles were shared about the <a href="http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/09/06/what-happens-when-prince-philip-dies" target="_blank">royal protocol for announcing the death of Prince Philip</a> that seemed to lend a little credibility to idea. </div>
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Now as a royal enthusiast, it was interesting to see my dueling feeds. On the one hand, I had friends who barely follow the royals that were suddenly very interested in what was happening, and were assuming the worst. The feed that interested me the most though was that of my fellow royal enthusiasts & bloggers, especially those more experienced in royalty & protocol. Of my friends, they were the most skeptical, most open to other news, and were (rightly so) questioning the inconsistencies of the news with the protocols we have come to expect from The Royal Family in England and other countries. Needless to say, like the Queen, they were not amused. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5nm9Hn7TtifnfMkw6ifgELp08XnSGgZJ5uJa_bpgnIr9-BN5TLmjEQqd_B-eGamo43JI7eGVg_0225xw9MF9urc1a7eeY3gi1OOMJ-q68P3gXuxcPa6fbYJKkuYR-agdVR2F_LbgVzCs/s1600/Queen-Elizabeth-Resting-Bitch-Face1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5nm9Hn7TtifnfMkw6ifgELp08XnSGgZJ5uJa_bpgnIr9-BN5TLmjEQqd_B-eGamo43JI7eGVg_0225xw9MF9urc1a7eeY3gi1OOMJ-q68P3gXuxcPa6fbYJKkuYR-agdVR2F_LbgVzCs/s320/Queen-Elizabeth-Resting-Bitch-Face1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Queen is not amused.<br />
Source: Rollingstone.com</td></tr>
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In the end, the news was that <a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-39802636" target="_blank">Prince Philip was retiring from active duty this August at the age of 96</a>. Still big news in the realm of British Royal news and among the fandom, but safe to say not the news that most people were expecting. The joke was on us, right?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3VfdSbNgMBRoNa2-UEogs_DRTORoftMXiWaIkyNwfWOaMw31q98gAs2a1pYhZ622RdzJ9LIBX7B804kvs0Rt5a6U2k9EhaKUcOiiMFTc9xAiUgMNj3acbn6IboDLvKDXQVsV_VH9b6A/s1600/LizPhil2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3VfdSbNgMBRoNa2-UEogs_DRTORoftMXiWaIkyNwfWOaMw31q98gAs2a1pYhZ622RdzJ9LIBX7B804kvs0Rt5a6U2k9EhaKUcOiiMFTc9xAiUgMNj3acbn6IboDLvKDXQVsV_VH9b6A/s320/LizPhil2.jpg" width="304" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Well that joke went rather splendidly. Ha!"<br />
Source: Daily Mail<br />
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Of course, among the fandom and in retrospect, there were obvious signs that the news of the death of Prince Philip wasn't true. Royal news is bound very heavily in tradition & protocol, even in this instant social media era. Here are some pro-tips when contemplating royal rumours:</div>
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<ol>
<li><b>Investigate the source:</b> this story broke by a rag outlet in New Zealand. That alone should have been a huge red flag. When it comes to the British Royal Family, if rumours are not reported first by British newspapers, back away slowly.</li>
<li><b>Investigate how the news is being released:</b> any official news on the British Royal Family comes from either Buckingham Palace (on behalf of the Queen & Prince Philip), Clarence House (on behalf Charles & Camilla), or Kensington Palace (on behalf of William, Catherine, &= Harry). Furthermore, if the BBC hasn't announced it, then don't assume it to be true until they do.</li>
<li><b>Understand the nature of rumours on social media: </b>Twitter or Facebook is usually the fastest source, but it's not always the most accurate. Also note that just because a journalist sources Twitter, that doesn't mean it's correct. Without independent verification directly from the source or a credible person, assume the organization are a bunch of lazy twits.</li>
<li><b>Look to credible royal social media accounts first:</b> generally speaking, when it comes to royal news, the best people to believe are the Royal twitter accounts, followed by former staff members turned analysts, followed by official royal reporters, followed by experience royal bloggers. They have the expertise and experience of discerning news, understanding protocol, and spotting inconsistencies vs. some egg account with 6 followers or some guy who never posts about royalty. Good people to follow are <a href="https://twitter.com/BBCPeterHunt" target="_blank">Peter Hunt</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalDickie" target="_blank">Dickie Arbiter</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/victoriaarbiter" target="_blank">Victoria Arbiter</a>.</li>
<li><b>Question anything that is reported as true without links or specific details:</b> example is "...as reported on British radio." Well that is rather vague, isn't it? What specific station? What time? By Whom? Is there a link? "French media is reporting..." Who is their source? Link?</li>
<li><b>Does the story itself seem unusual or have flaws? </b>One weird aspect of this was "3 am emergency meeting" part. While it's not unusual for staff to be called to Buckingham Palace for a meeting, would that call take place at 3 am, even in death? Is it necessary for staff to be there prior to the release of news, when the head of the other households can just as easily transmit that information to the staff? These questions alone (along with other inconsistencies) is enough to warrant a pause in reaction.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaklVlCea0XJ0hDfHCkaUikEEjwEoqBylqsyGHAz7rhRyplHtdU5_LJQC7RpHO1DbNulBP-I0NvB-CLs1ABjwdGs-tXICVPXAskrfDPLM_BCbJWsipB2D8YF_-nHO1MHS_BaKXHAAc3xI/s1600/BPQueenFlag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaklVlCea0XJ0hDfHCkaUikEEjwEoqBylqsyGHAz7rhRyplHtdU5_LJQC7RpHO1DbNulBP-I0NvB-CLs1ABjwdGs-tXICVPXAskrfDPLM_BCbJWsipB2D8YF_-nHO1MHS_BaKXHAAc3xI/s320/BPQueenFlag.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li><b>Understanding Protocols, Traditions, & Customs is mighty handy:</b> Much ado was made about the 8 am release of news, and the "lowering of the flag to half-mast." But understanding protocol will help you understand why the former is not unusual, but the latter would be extremely unusual. Media announcements about news or itineraries tends to take place early in the morning anyways as a matter of course. Yes, there are exceptions where a release outside of that time would be warranted (such as a death of a foreign leader or a major tragedy), but those are exceptions, not the norms.<br /><br />However, the lowering of the Sovereign's flag (a.k.a The Royal Standard) to half-mast would have been mighty unusual, as in non-existent. Why? Because the Royal Standard never lowers to half-mast, even in death of the particular monarch itself, because the Sovereign never dies as succession is immediate upon death.<br /><br />If you *did* see a flag at half-mast, like with Princess Diana's death, it's because the Queen was not in residence, and thus the Union Jack was flown. <a href="http://www.smittenbybritain.com/the-royal-standard-its-history-and-meaning/" target="_blank">Read this good article for more info.</a><br /><br />As the Royal Standard is flown in the palace where the monarch is currently residing, as she was last night, the royal fandom knew that to be a bunch of hooey.<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">
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So I hope I was able to clear shed some light & impart some knowledge on how to receive royal rumours in the future. Most importantly, I wish Her Majesty and His Royal Highness happiness and health. Long may she reign! </div>
Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-39704618587942916122015-09-04T10:15:00.002-06:002015-09-04T10:15:42.183-06:00My Diet Plan: Stop Joining Diet Plans.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dieting sucks.<br />
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I've blogged before about my diet struggles. It seems like I have tried every "plan" from Weight Watchers (repeatedly) to Jenny Craig to The Biggest Loser to diet pills. I've probably spent around $5000 (and that may be a conservative estimate) into these programs, especially Weight Watchers.<br />
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Am I any skinnier? No. But more importantly, am I any healthier? No.<br />
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I had my girlfriends over the other week. Everyone was talking, myself included, about how we are at our heaviest. In particular, most expressed how difficult it was to stick to a "program" and that it felt at times like a waste of money. Despite that, the general indication was that most would re-join a program they have repeatedly failed on before because "anything was better than nothing."<br />
<br />
But is that true? <i>(Note: the next comments aren't meant to be critical of their choices. Whatever works for them. I'm just speaking from my own history & experience).</i><br />
<br />
It got me thinking to my own diet history. Despite all that I have spent, that I am at my heaviest weight. Shouldn't I know better? Haven't I learnt enough?<br />
<br />
Two days ago, I came to a conclusion: <b>dieting isn't hard. The programs I've spent money on are</b>. Here are some basic mistakes of most of the diet programs:<br />
<br />
<b>1) Being overly complicated in calculating food intake without a real understanding of the nutritional value of the food.</b><br />
<br />
An example is a Weight Watcher point. The basic of a point is that it is calculated by some formula (that they don't tell you) of carbohydrate, protein, fat, and fiber. The lower the point, the better the food. Right?<br />
<br />
Not necessarily. Sometimes, the unhealthier product was the same points or less than the healthier option. Coke can be lower in points that milk. How is that a great choice?<br />
<br />
More importantly, other things on the food label, that aren't counted, matter. Like sugar. Like sodium. All critical to good health.<br />
<br />
Which leads me to my next point...<br />
<br />
<b>2) Living a well-balanced life means that nutrition & health matters too. Food choices should not compromise health. </b><br />
<br />
The premise of Jenny Craig is that the meals are prepared for you to perfect portion and calorie servings. But think about this: every single meal is pre-processed food. Which means every single meal exceeds the recommended sodium intake. What the fresh hell?<br />
<br />
Weight Watchers is no different. Some lower-point food has extremely high levels of sugar or sodium. <br />
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Your food choices shouldn't hurt you folks.<br />
<br />
<b>3) Lack of emphasis on exercise.</b><br />
<br />
Common to most programs I have been on is that exercise is an after-thought. Sure, they encourage you to move more, but there is no comprehensive plan for that.<br />
<br />
And in the case of Weight Watchers, the idea that you have the option of trading "activity points" for "exercise points" is ludicrous for long-term success.<br />
<br />
Here's the deal. Exercise for weight-loss doesn't have as big of an impact if what you are learning is that you can justify food for it. And the reality check is that most people under-estimate how much exercise they put in compared to the food they exchange it with.<br />
<br />
Exercise for the purposes of weight loss should be in addition to eating less/healthier, not in exchange of. <br />
<br />
But exercise should also be more heavily encouraged because it has far greater benefits in terms of health (like increasing energy, lung capacity, muscle-building, flexibility, etc...).<br />
<br />
<b>4) Lack of structure when it comes to meal plans. </b><br />
<br />
Sure, there is no shortage of recipes. Or suggestions on how to space your meals and snacks. Or even what to have.<br />
<br />
But meal planning involves more than just what you are eating. It's also how much you eat and how the choices sustain you until the next meal.<br />
<br />
I will repeat this: food's only purpose is to fuel you to get through the day. So while it seems a good idea to have a piece of fruit and yogurt only in the morning, is that going to be enough? Not likely.<br />
<br />
<b>5) Next to no emotional counselling.</b><br />
<br />
One thing I did like about Weight Watchers was their group sessions. Good ideas came from those group sessions.<br />
<br />
But the thing is, having "tips" is not the same as understanding the emotional reasons behind your food choices. These programs don't require you to peel back the layers to understand why you make the choices you do. Or what emotion you are feeding. <br />
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The tips, while good for managing your environment, only go so far.<br />
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While I have gleaned some good "tips" over the years (and my suggestions will reflect some of them), I've decided to give up "diet programs" and just start exercising some common sense. To not complicate matters. To take charge of myself and save my money.<br />
<br />
Here's the basic common sense of dieting approach that I will be taking:<br />
<br />
1) Food is meant to fuel your body, not comfort or meet some emotional need.<br />
<br />
2) Eat a balanced diet that includes things that grow in the ground, and things that eat the stuff that grows in the ground.<br />
<br />
3) Limit foods that aren't as good, but not to feel guilty for the occasional indulgence<br />
<br />
4) Keep my meals simple. Food has enough great taste that I don't need to add high-calorie loaded things to complicate things. Use basic ingredients. Limit salt & sugar as often as possible, and definitely don't add them to meals unless absolutely necessary.<br />
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5) Move more in an deliberate way. Move more in a way that recognises my limitations (knees) but doesn't make excuses for them. Plan activity at least 5 out of the 7 days for at least 30 minutes a day.<br /><br />6) Before I reach for a food, pause and ask why. Am I hungry? Or am I feeding another hunger that doesn't require food?<br />
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7) Have a general plan for what I will have each meal, every week. Have some go-to meals for breakfast & lunch that can be quickly prepared and consumed (given that I only have a 1/2 hour to consume each meal). For dinner, have a plan for every day in that week, factoring in things like work schedules (husband), events, etc... and then plan accordingly.<br />
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8) Ensure that every meal includes at least 3 of the 4 food groups, and that every snack includes 2 of the 4. For every meal & snack, a fruit &/or vegetable must be one component. All three main meals must include at least 1/2 to 1 full protein.<br />
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9) Use the plate method of 1/2 plate being fruit or veg, 1/4 being protein, 1/4 being carb.<br />
<br />
10) Weigh & measure my portions until I have a better sense of a reasonable portion. Routinely re-measure to ensure I am not "over-portioning."<br />
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11) Have a plan for eating out. Portion out half the entree and only consume the other portion if truly hungry. Otherwise, pack it up for lunch. For my drink, fishbowl my water and tell them to add a variety of bar condiments (i.e., cherries, orange/lime/lemon wedges).<br />
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12) Find a way to track in a way that is achievable, such as an app, or blogging, or a scribbler. <br />
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13) While at the end of the day, it's calories in calories out, ensure the calories are more beneficial than not.<br />
<br />
14) Stop drinking coffee altogether (especially the frapifattys) and move towards tea with honey.<br />
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<b><u>15) DO NOT OVER THINK THINGS. </u></b><br />
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<b><u>16) DO NOT COMPARE MY JOURNEY TO OTHERS.</u></b><br />
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<b><u>17) DO NOT BEAT MYSELF UP OVER FAILURES.</u></b><br />
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18) Accept the limitations of my body (health) but keep working everyday to overcome them.<br />
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19) Relax. Don't let the weight loss effort consume my life. Find a hobby/distraction to provide balance.<br />
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20) Keep your eye on the end goal, but mark the accomplishments along the way.<br />
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Have any other great advice? Leave them in the comments.<br />
<br />
Dani.<br />
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<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-56084437177065017742015-05-15T12:00:00.002-06:002015-05-15T12:03:36.162-06:00The Road That Will Be Less Travelled<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8S4NxxzEtsvTb83FWoYxkkBBTRp8BhvNyFUI2Uy_-dWgDwmz04RzMp1wcO-QVLlwXDL8DFairwMF64zmNWhO9Vj7kaCrUadoTuDt6enbWE669cRMcm8BJTGv8sdIA1cATV3C4Wh3-tj8/s1600/pc.gc.ca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8S4NxxzEtsvTb83FWoYxkkBBTRp8BhvNyFUI2Uy_-dWgDwmz04RzMp1wcO-QVLlwXDL8DFairwMF64zmNWhO9Vj7kaCrUadoTuDt6enbWE669cRMcm8BJTGv8sdIA1cATV3C4Wh3-tj8/s640/pc.gc.ca.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: Parks Canada, Elk Island National Park, pc.gc.ca.<br />
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Growing up, I didn't travel very much or very far. My trips were limited to mostly places in Alberta (like Jasper, Banff, Calgary, Crowsnest Pass) and BC (Sparwood to see family). Beautiful places but close to home. Affordable.<br />
<br />
When I reached of age where I could make my own travel decisions - and had the funds to do so - I ventured out. My first couple of trips were bus tours so that I could pack the most into a trip in an affordable & safe fashion. Along with my friend <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Joanne</a>, we went to places like New York City, Washington DC, Savannah, St. Augustine, Orlando, San Diego, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon and places in-between.<br />
<br />
When I met the man who was to be my husband, we traveled one, maybe two times a year to Las Vegas. Last year, we did an epic one month road trip from Edmonton to Las Vegas, then over to Anaheim (and Disneyland), then up the Pacific Coast Highway with stops in places like Monterey, San Francisco & Port Angeles.<br />
<br />
I have always made travel a priority, but this year, my priorities have had to shift. My husband & I would love to continue to travel as we have. But we are trying to have a baby. We also want to retire early. While we are fortunate in that we have no major expenses, our goals mean that we have had revise how we travel.<br />
<br />
This year, my husband & I made a difficult but correct decision to put off major travel plans. The many places we want to see are being pushed back for the time being.<br />
<br />
They say you should live your life to the fullest so you have no regrets. But the reality is that sometimes, you have to balance your regrets & your dreams. I would regret making travel a bigger priority than having a child or being able to retire early.<br />
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We haven't completely abandoned travelling though. We decided to stick to local areas where we could see something in one day (or overnight at the most). Just like in my youth, we will stick around this beautiful province.<br />
<br />
On tap for this summer includes:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>A trip to <a href="http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/ab/elkisland/index.aspx" target="_blank">Elk Island National Park</a>. I've never actually been there before, so I am quite excited. Plus it's relatively close to home, so we can do this in a day.</li>
<li>A picnic at <a href="http://www.mameobeach.ca/" target="_blank">Ma-Me-O Beach</a> in <a href="http://www.albertaparks.ca/pigeon-lake/information-facilities.aspx" target="_blank">Pigeon Lake</a> and at <a href="http://www.albertaparks.ca/wabamun-lake.aspx" target="_blank">Wabamun Lake</a>.</li>
<li>Little road trips here and there that are within driving distance, stopping to see sites and having a picnic. </li>
</ul>
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We are also considering places like <a href="http://www.traveldrumheller.com/" target="_blank">Drumheller</a>, the <a href="http://www.history.alberta.ca/ukrainianvillage/" target="_blank">Ukrainian Cultural Centre</a>, the <a href="http://ponokastampede.com/" target="_blank">Ponoka Stampede,</a> any type of festival or event in a nearby town, the <a href="http://history.alberta.ca/reynolds/" target="_blank">Reynolds Museum</a>, etc. I am extremely lucky to live in a beautiful province like Alberta with all the <a href="http://travelalberta.com/" target="_blank">scenery & travel options</a>. </div>
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When it comes to travel, I seemingly have come full circle with my youth.</div>
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<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-39766054900887618342015-05-14T15:17:00.002-06:002015-05-15T11:02:08.886-06:00The things left unsaid.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Yesterday has no reason to end the way it did.<br />
<br />
I woke up in a generally good mood. I had a productive work day and finished my tasks. I went to my new weekly fitness class and left a little bit stronger (even if the legs had the shakes). My husband & I had an enjoyable dinner with great conversation.<br />
<br />
By all accounts, my day was actually pretty good.<br />
<br />
And then I uttered something to my husband at the worst possible time. I created hurt. It came from a place of hurt. I uttered it from a feeling of frustration. It was motivated by wanting to shift the burden & guilt to someone who was already carrying his share.<br />
<br />
I could have very easily chosen not to be mean. I could have very easily chose to be understanding.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>I could have left things unsaid.</b></div>
<br />
But the infertility struggle comes with many emotions. Sometimes the emotions are ugly and can't be hidden.<br />
<br />
I made a promise that I wouldn't go "crazy" on this infertility journey. That whatever shall be shall be. Most importantly, I promised it wouldn't interfere with the loving relationship I have with my amazing husband.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, it interfered. Yesterday, all the isolation and guilt and anger and frustration and sadness came out in a few sentences. The wound was swift. The wound was deep.<br />
<br />
It was unfair of me. It was mean. It was cruel. And now I must repair the damage I caused.<br />
<br />
I can blame the drugs I am on, certainly. I can blame my inability to just confront people with my concerns. I am not a people pleaser, but I am also not a feather ruffler. In the past, when I have said something (usually coming from the same place as this time), it's created hurt and misunderstanding.<br />
<br />
My choices always seem to come down to either remain silent, or say something & risk misunderstanding, anger, & hurt. I haven't figured out yet how not to do that.<br />
<br />
Lesson is that sometimes, things are simply better left unsaid.<br />
<br />
<b>*Update: </b>Love means saying you are sorry. And I did. Love means forgiveness. And he did. xo<b>*</b><br />
<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-92034543496919725172015-02-11T15:35:00.001-07:002015-02-11T15:37:15.376-07:00Catching up on stuff: A post on strength & fragility. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello faithful readers of five,<br />
<br />
I know. I haven't written anything here for a while. I've had a thousand great thoughts in my head, but no will to actually articulate anything. I'll do better.<br />
<br />
The last few months have been particularly difficult - more so for the people around me than myself particularly. But it has been draining, this thing called worry. It has been challenging, this thing called stress. It has been a test in fortitude, this thing called emotions. It has been an experience, this thing called helplessness.<br />
<br />
To recap:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>On December 12th, my <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/2014/12/family-is-haven-in-heartless-world.html" target="_blank">best friend's mom died</a>. A woman I have known and loved for over half my life is gone. My sadness pales in comparison to Jo's, but it's still a devastating loss. Not only is a loss in the sense that your friend's parents are yours too, but it's a reminder of the fragility of your own parents. </li>
<li>Speaking of Jo, her son (and my godson) was admitted to the Stollery Children's hospital twice. He's slowly getting better. But it's scary because they are so vulnerable. Oh, and Joanne was sick with bronchitis. I feel helpless in that I want to be there for her, but there is so little I can do. </li>
<li>Closer to home, my husband was sicker than a dog with some sort of viral infection. This after I came off my own bout of the flu.</li>
<li>My own health issues. I swear, I turned 35 a few years back and it's been downhill health wise since. A reminder that I need to nurture my body. Because the way you treat your body will catch up to you. </li>
<li>In my immediate family, someone is facing a mental health battle with depression and suicidal thoughts/attempts. He was hospitalized in the mental health and we thought he was getting better. He seemed fine. Now he's back there.</li>
<li>An online acquaintance lost her son to suicide.</li>
<li>Not being anymore closer to having a baby than I was that year. The fertility care system in Alberta is less than adequate. (Although there is a ray of hope coming up. Maybe).</li>
<li>Dealing with a spiritual/faith drought. It happens to me more frequently than I care to admit.</li>
<li>The general flipping world right now.</li>
<li>All while dealing with the general stresses of every day life. </li>
</ul>
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So much worry, stress, emotion and helplessness in a short period of time. Sigh. </div>
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The quest for 2015 will be trying to find a way to find strength in the things that bring me down. How to rise above and be the person needed for those who suffer. How to deal with my own fragility. How to keep optimistic when it seems like there is not much to be optimistic about. </div>
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<br />I will return to one goal though: blog more. Having an outlet is a good thing. Maybe. LOL.<br />
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<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-21369243598431028842014-03-28T10:47:00.003-06:002014-03-28T11:11:41.392-06:00To Alberta's Political Parties: What Have You Done For Me Lately?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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There is a lyric in Janet Jackson's song, <i><a href="http://youtu.be/r9uizdKZAGE" target="_blank">What Have You Done For Me Lately</a></i>, that I think sums up my current thinking on Alberta politics:<br />
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Used to be a time you would pamper me</div>
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Used to brag about it all the time</div>
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Your friends seem to think that you're so peachy keen</div>
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But my friends say neglect is on your mind...</div>
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Whose right?</div>
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What have you done for me lately?</div>
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Ooh ooh ooh yah!</div>
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What have you done for me lately?</div>
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Ooh ooh ooh yah!</div>
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Today, after originally reported by local blogger <a href="http://www.kikkiplanet.com/" target="_blank">Kikkiplanet</a> (a.k.a. Kathleen Smith) <b>TWO WEEKS AGO</b>, news of plans (although not confirmed to be implemented or finalised) to <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/alison-redford-ordered-penthouse-suite-in-federal-building-1.2589713" target="_blank">add a personal suite</a> by & for Alison Redford (a.k.a. Alberta's former Premier) was released by Charles Rusnell of the CBC.</div>
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<b>I GET IT</b>.....<b>WE ALL GET IT</b>. Another scandal about Premier Redford treated Alberta's wallet like her own...blah blah blah. I got it the first 75 news reports released over the last two <strike>weeks</strike> years, ad nausea. The fact that old news is being reported by lazy reporters who don't seem to do their job unless Kathleen stokes a fire up their ass is both amusing, and a sad commentary on journalism in this province. But that is neither here nor there. </div>
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Each political party in many ways resembles the first part of the lyric above. As a voter, I've been enticed by many parties with their sexy promises, polished looks, and careless whispers of sweet policy caressing my ears. Each party has a loyal group of partisan friends, saying how the other parties are up to no good and their party is peachy keen. </div>
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But what I want to know from all political parties is <b>what have you done for me lately</b>? It's not enough for me to simply say "elect us because the 'other' is <<i>insert disparaging comment here</i>>." I want to know what <b>you</b> are going to do. I want to know what your plans are for the future. </div>
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I am not really interested in looking to the past. As someone with a history degree, I am always cautious to judge the events of the past, without looking at the context of when a decision was made. I also realize that sometimes it takes years to see the full realization of decision or action take, even the controversial ones. </div>
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These are the things I want to hear from political parties in Alberta (that I am not hearing now):</div>
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<li>"Who cares what the other parties are doing? Here is what <i>we</i> are doing."</li>
<li>"Here is <i>our</i> plan for what we think would would work."</li>
<li>"Here are <i>our</i> expense reports, so you can judge for yourself <i>prior</i> to the election if we are trustworthy."</li>
<li>"Here is how <i>we </i>would do this specific situation differently."</li>
<li>"We can't promise that our promises can be implemented, but we will <i>try</i>."</li>
<li>"We <i>trust</i> you, the voter, to make an informed choice."</li>
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Do not assume that a scandal is all it will take for me to vote for the "other." With so many voices whispering in my ear, telling me who is right and who is wrong, my vote will be made in the silence of my own thoughts and observations, based on sound policy and bold vision.</div>
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Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-87897117979663575842014-03-21T14:33:00.002-06:002014-03-21T14:38:18.651-06:00Clowns to the Left of Me, Jokers to the Right: An Alberta Tale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is an old song by the group 'Stealers Wheels' that pretty much sums up the reality of politics for moderates (like myself) in Alberta. Here is a small part of the lyric of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8StG4fFWHqg" target="_blank">Stuck In The Middle With You</a>:<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">It's so hard to keep this smile from my face,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Losing control, yeah, I'm all over the place,</span></div>
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Clowns to the left of me, Jokers to the right,</div>
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Here I am, stuck in the middle with you.</div>
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This week in Alberta, Premier Alison Redford <strike>was forced out</strike> resigned after two-years at the helm. Now granted, much of this was <a href="http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/edmonton/Alison+Redford+timeline/9638367/story.html" target="_blank">brought on by herself</a>. For a woman who is probably the smartest person we have elected <strike>to the throne</strike> as Premier, she sure had an optics problem. There is no easy way to justify some of the decisions she made, in either spending, how she conducted herself, or who she surrounded herself. It's sad really, because she did do some good things - most notably taking an <a href="http://www.edmontonjournal.com/Staples+Does+Edmonton+lose+with+Redford+departure/9642928/story.html" target="_blank">aggressive stance</a> to fix the post-boom/Klein-era cuts that created a major infrastructure deficit. But it was clear she needed to go. You can't have the perception of the air of entitlement, even if other leaders in this country are just as bad or worse. If she (or us for that matter) walks away with one lesson, it's to make sure you have an effective crisis management strategy. </div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Well you started out with nothing,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">And you're proud that you're a self made (wo)man,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">And your friend, they all come crawlin',</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Slap you on the back and say, </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Please....Please.....</span></div>
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Now some might say that maybe the problem is with the Progressive Conservative of Alberta Party. They are a dinosaur party that has run it's course after 43 years of uncontested rule. <b>Hogwash</b>. They were elected for 43+ years because they effectively adjusted their strategy of governing to match the prevailing wind currents. When we needed growth, they provided growth. When we needed fiscal restraint, they provided fiscal restraint. And so the cycle goes. </div>
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A good party of any persuasion is a better one if they adjust their policies to match the reality, even if it goes against ideology. A tough pill to swallow, but all the leaders of all the parties in Alberta know that. To promise they won't adjust their ideology to the situation is complete bullshit. An NDP government can't install socialist programs when the price of dinosaur farts goes down. The WRP can't push an assertive socialist ideology in a province as diverse as ours. All any party can do is move the province a little to the right and a little to the left....by mere millimetres. </div>
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If the PC's loses the Wildrose, it better be because the WRP offered a better solution, not because they were simply the "best alternative." But the proof will be in the policy pudding. The "pin-the-tail-on-Alison" game is over. 2016 is a long way off, and they better make the best of that short window. </div>
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<b>So what is the problem you ask?</b></div>
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<b>The problem with Alberta is that you have clowns to the left, and jokers to the right. </b></div>
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Somewhere along the way in this province, you had politicians, both in government and opposition, who thought it was cool to pit people against each other. It wasn't obvious at first. It starts with passing legislation or spending decisions that pits urban vs. rural communities against each other. It's the 15-second sound bites that paint one side or one party or one person as "evil" and the other "good." It's making broad generalisations that we are all Martha's and Henry's, when in fact, few of us can relate to the lifestyle of said characters. </div>
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It's parties letting their base get nasty with the other side, on their behalf, and not intervening to tell them to tone it down. Or even worse, egging them on. Then the very next day, doing "selfies" with the "enemy", smiles and wine all around. </div>
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It's people, rightly or wrongly, defining what it means to be a big or little "C" Conservative or a big or little "L" liberal. It's people who pick on each other because they aren't their brand of "C" or "L." </div>
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It's people using social media or the actual media to promote their own profiles/beliefs/agenda's, but then take no responsibility because they are merely "engaged citizens", regardless of how accurate their allegations are. </div>
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What baffles me is about the whole Redford affair is that the expense records have been posted for many, many, many, months. I knew about them. One lazy Saturday in the summer, I stumbled across many of those records. But I had nothing to benefit from exposing them? First off, I didn't know the context of the trip. Did the ends justify the means? Secondly, it's not my job to do the footwork for the media in this province. Third, what are my expectations for a leader or an associate-level staff. Is it reasonable to expect someone of that calibre to stay at the Hotel 8 or eat at McDonald's, or fly economy?</div>
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I don't have the answers to that, because I didn't know enough about the context. I sure as hell wasn't going to put my reputation on the line on allegations without context.</div>
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So here we are, once again facing a leadership contest. Perhaps what is needed is a citizen expectation review.<br />
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In the meantime, as a moderate, I'm just going to sit back and watch. And think. And come to my own decision. Because I have clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right and:<br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm stuck in the middle with you.</span></div>
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</span>Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-44102117948646456802014-02-06T19:30:00.001-07:002014-02-06T19:30:18.149-07:00Paint by Number<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutex0GuCIRo55lFilem6_lDPl1TnuC5Sl3lbmRMGmLXEplzEZ-_mmfCM0tFGU5KyYYvyJAQfRQoCfDzo-bHgTB4elZdLKAgUf1Opc7WAKdM-iqKWVHOyrHbZzvXmOhtkOM7-_QMVRkHo/s640/blogger-image--1288380022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutex0GuCIRo55lFilem6_lDPl1TnuC5Sl3lbmRMGmLXEplzEZ-_mmfCM0tFGU5KyYYvyJAQfRQoCfDzo-bHgTB4elZdLKAgUf1Opc7WAKdM-iqKWVHOyrHbZzvXmOhtkOM7-_QMVRkHo/s640/blogger-image--1288380022.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Hello faithful readers of five, </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">There has been much ado on social media about the finale of The Biggest Loser: Season 15. The winner, Rachel Frederickson, lost 155 pounds and went from 260 lbs to 105 lbs, which was almost a 60% loss. Her BMI based on her supposed height of 5'4" puts her either "underweight" or just on the cusp, <i>depending on what chart you read</i>. (Some have her at 16, 17' or 18). <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQpxt-53Du1a6feS51E0uGyw2zKHzhKwkJ36l6ra52BAH5_myl1vtXvB6QNzLDPQWJD3987DpIm4j54HX1XRzFMle_OIMDFE2-X02BXFdFcr0p_DQSy4Alz9dir48grEOycZIME6Z6yjo/s640/blogger-image--407636929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQpxt-53Du1a6feS51E0uGyw2zKHzhKwkJ36l6ra52BAH5_myl1vtXvB6QNzLDPQWJD3987DpIm4j54HX1XRzFMle_OIMDFE2-X02BXFdFcr0p_DQSy4Alz9dir48grEOycZIME6Z6yjo/s640/blogger-image--407636929.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">People on social media have gone crazy, saying she is "anorexic" (and from some posts, that is being kind). Sites like Diets in Review have raised alarm bells by saying things like: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i>@DietsInReview: Rachel’s 60 Percent Weight Loss is Nothing to Celebrate; Biggest Loser Should be Ashamed http://t.co/QFwbIlzxYk << What did you think? #BL15 </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i><br></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">While some good arguments are being raised in general about the show and their methods, I think we need to stop criticizing Rachel. Repeat after me: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <b>People are not only numbers.</b> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <b>People are not defined by arbitrary numbers.</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">First off, we are not medical professionals. Even those who claim to be, they are not <i>her</i> medical professional. We have no idea what her health is like.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Secondly, a BMI chart is not the best indicator of...welll...anything really. It is a guideline (one that has been arbitrarily redefined over the years and varies in different countries). It doesn't factor in bone or frame structure.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">By that chart, I should be in the hospital right now with a blown artery, oozing fat out of my nostrils. My husband is technically quite a bit "underweight" (more so than Rachel) and has no health issues related to his weight. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thirdly, and most importantly, society needs to stop valuing people only by the number they represent on the scale. When some competitors "only" reached weight losses of 25-35%, people were critical for "not doing enough with the opportunity they were given." When they started, they were criticized for "letting themselves go." </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You truly cannot win at any level of weight by arbitrary standards of society. It seems that the only acceptable weight of someone else is what society deems they are comfortable with. If you are too thin (naturally or by diet) or too fat (naturally or by diet) and they are uncomfortable, it's not ok. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My post isn't ignoring the very real issues of anorexia or obesity. I am not sweeping the very issue of disorders under the rug. But let's be clear that this is a competitor on a reality TV show that was given the best medical & professional supervision on this journey. She may very well have done something like hot sauana or detoxing for the weigh-in for one or two days prior to the final weigh-in, which was not indicative of her efforts prior too (which she claimed she ate 1600 calories a day in the weeks leading). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So enough with the shaming. Put down the pitchforks and focus on the fact that a beautiful determined person is exactly that - a person, not a number. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0I7OWisjvu1FLDJAJ1UahqGKyD3RB-iPj6MwQw0FtlsVwEKIG6aElc-cjNq0mF3exn_AZxbuDqrogUuQVtd8lAgliaAQceQs5Hito-qTGkN9sTSyYmM2jK54P6Qoz4eFD0V-7W9VnsiA/s640/blogger-image--616596057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0I7OWisjvu1FLDJAJ1UahqGKyD3RB-iPj6MwQw0FtlsVwEKIG6aElc-cjNq0mF3exn_AZxbuDqrogUuQVtd8lAgliaAQceQs5Hito-qTGkN9sTSyYmM2jK54P6Qoz4eFD0V-7W9VnsiA/s640/blogger-image--616596057.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div></font></div>Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-69915067302272758272014-01-28T15:06:00.004-07:002014-01-28T15:09:20.346-07:00Let's Talk (Honestly) About Mental Health.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhq6HjFHLif4Ji3RQ3G2GrC6u8kpBrn8epFdVJxkiAXVbPfAqRN3qYx4N_h1VC30QpDZXvgq8RbMTdzTbfrLqZ1uqxIXLDbS2BKCyyc-1g44U7Kz9cPBeZ9YX-g0wEisjayX8P-8RRfo/s1600/mental+health+labels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhq6HjFHLif4Ji3RQ3G2GrC6u8kpBrn8epFdVJxkiAXVbPfAqRN3qYx4N_h1VC30QpDZXvgq8RbMTdzTbfrLqZ1uqxIXLDbS2BKCyyc-1g44U7Kz9cPBeZ9YX-g0wEisjayX8P-8RRfo/s1600/mental+health+labels.jpg" height="224" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: theagenda.tvo.org</td></tr>
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Today there is a campaign to raise awareness about mental health issues in Canada, spearheaded by Bell Corporation, call <a href="http://letstalk.bell.ca/en/" target="_blank">Let's Talk</a>. <i>(Click on the link if you wish to know more).</i>The goal of the campaign is to raise awareness of mental health issues through conversation, removing the stigma that is often associated with one who suffers such a condition. It is a great campaign.<br />
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Mental health issues have plagued my family for generations. My mother herself was hospitalised for depression, a condition that came into our home like an unwanted house guest every few months. I myself have had periods of my life where I have experienced the sensation of a tiny rain cloud situated permanently over my head. Mostly I just float around with apathy, not really caring about what is going on, especially to myself.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>The thing with mental health issues is that it gnaws at you whether you realize it or not. </b></div>
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Society has come to equate mental health issues as some sore of condition where emotions are dramatic and the person is unhinged. It's easy to spot the crazy person muttering obscenities in the wind. That is one aspect.<br />
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Most of the time though, it is this silent condition that you really don't notice because on the appearance, the person with whatever issue seems <i>fine. </i>Sometimes, the person themselves don't even realize they are experiencing anything until they are knee-deep in the condition. Others are aware, but like the song says "put on a happy face."<br />
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<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/I_CE7GqqrvY/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/I_CE7GqqrvY&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="https://youtube.googleapis.com/v/I_CE7GqqrvY&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
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This <strike>week</strike> month, I have been feeling depressed, and most people would never know. I smile. I joke. But I also just don't care. I am tired. All I want to do is sleep or watch TV. The issues of my life and my struggles have piled on to the point where my default emotion, apathy, has kicked in and taken over. I am reminded this week of those I have lost - grandma, grandpa and Wendy. On the surface, everyone says I should have nothing to complain about. <i>At least I don't have kids and can go wherever I want</i>. <i>At least I have a job</i>. <i>At least I have a home paid off.</i> <i>At least I am with someone</i>. All are true. I am grateful. But that doesn't make things better for me or the emotions I feel. That doesn't mean I don't have struggles anyways.<br />
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Don't believe the picture people paint of themselves. <b>We can all make our lives a Monet, when we really feel like a Picasso.</b><br />
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I have been lucky enough to have counselling services in the past. I have the tools that are helping me get through this. Writing seems to help. Getting out into fresh air. Talking about my feelings. Identifying though patterns and re-framing them. Removing myself from negative situations. I am using those tools to help me through this. <br />
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The truth is that not everyone is lucky enough to afford counselling services. Not everyone can pull themselves out. Not everyone shows their issues on their face. Not everyone realizes they are having mental health issues.<br />
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Dealing with mental health issues requires a fundamental way we look at all aspects of life, not just treatment. We need to review how schools both address mental health, and equip our children to deal with issues as part of the curriculum. We need to review workplace standards. Truth is, I pretty much have to lie about being sick just to have a day off. Would an extra week of holiday, or mental health days, or flex-days, or better mental health benefits work out for the employer in the long run? Do we do enough to promote preventative treatment in the health care system or society-at-large?<br />
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Mental health issues play such a big role in society, from crime to workplace productivity. The default reaction cannot be to sweep it under the rug and then pretend they don't have a factor in issues that emerge.<br />
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Let's start talking - and listening - about mental health issues everyday, not just today.<br />
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<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-73049327897211901532014-01-22T12:25:00.002-07:002014-01-22T12:25:18.757-07:002013: The Year That Was<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidoxTCYg43HMPkeJxGJqVfaw7h1NeifjLKaai-5yCUYaPiK_XYIzzhicFI3nhL0TmbAPp0TPtnb8oXlFmn2tpEKRN0EiLDHq0GVB9pFqqpDR20FQej75dwSAmH5VUZnZLNp0bLub1Bok/s1600/Favim.com-25470_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidoxTCYg43HMPkeJxGJqVfaw7h1NeifjLKaai-5yCUYaPiK_XYIzzhicFI3nhL0TmbAPp0TPtnb8oXlFmn2tpEKRN0EiLDHq0GVB9pFqqpDR20FQej75dwSAmH5VUZnZLNp0bLub1Bok/s1600/Favim.com-25470_thumb.jpg" height="265" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quote source: Garden State (Zach Braff)</td></tr>
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Hello.<br />
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It's that time of year where I look back on 2013, file that away in my memory, and move forwards. Technically this should have been done at the end of last year but, like every other blog post I wrote in 2013, I am late. I can't say that 2013 was a particularly stellar year, but it was better than 2011 so there is that.<br />
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Like I did at the end of 2012, here is a recap of 2013.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>1. What did you do in 2013 that you have never done before?</b><br />
I became a fan of <a href="http://www.nfl.com/" target="_blank">NFL</a> football. My husband and I actually took the time to study the teams, sit down, watch some games, learn the rules and calls etc. It was great. I am hooked.<br />
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<b>2</b>. <b>Did you keep your New Year's Resolutions, and will make any more next year?</b><br />
Not really. I mean on the whole, I did make little achievements. Nothing to write home about, but achievements were made none the less. I ate a little better, but not to the level I expected. I moved a bit more, but not as much as I could of. That more or less sums up my efforts: did a little bit, but not a lot. My biggest let-down personally was spending so much time on social media, specifically Twitter. I lost track of what was important by thinking that was important. It is not, nor will it ever be. As for 2014, my only resolution is to spend more <i>meaningful</i> time with people that are important to me in real life.<br />
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<b>3.</b> <b>Any major life events happen in your life?</b><br />
Not like I had hoped. I thought by now I would be pregnant (at the very least). Turns out, my body has other ideas.<br />
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<b>4. Where did you travel?</b><br />
I spent a glorious week in Las Vegas at the <a href="http://mandalaybay.com/" target="_blank">Mandalay Bay</a>. It was a fabulous trip and we did fabulous things. I didn't get as much time off this year because of the wedding in 2012.<br />
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<b>5. What did you lack in 2013 that you would like more of in 2014?</b><br />
Honestly, more general excitement or enthusiasm. I felt like I was going through the motions in 2013. Nothing overly exciting happened really. Things were fine. I mean, I can't really say 2013 was a horrible year. But I am generally indifferent of how my year was. The fertility journey probably had a role in my general apathy, because it was frustrating.The only bright spot was spending time with my husband and our Beaumaris Lake walks/<a href="http://www.nfl.com/" target="_blank">NFL</a> Football watching. I really enjoyed those, for it reminded me of the wonder of nature. <br />
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I would also like more time with friends. We didn't spend as much time with friends this year. It was weird that way, but with the business of general life... That concerns me greatly actually, and I want to make more of an effort to connect next year.<br />
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<b>6. What dates from 2013 will remain etched upon your memory?</b><br />
No specific date stands out. My birthday I suppose because we were in Las Vegas again. Husband's birthday, but for an entirely different reason. His birthday drove home some important lessons which I won't get into here. Let's just say, it made me pause and think.<br />
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<b>7. What was your biggest achievement of the year?</b><br />
I would have to say getting laterally promoted into my new job, although I am not sure it was the greatest move I could have made in retrospect. But that might be more of an organizational issue than anything else.<br />
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<b>8. What was your biggest failure?</b><br />
Well this isn't really "my" fault because there wasn't anything I could do about it, but my inability to get pregnant. And the underlying reasons for it. I regret not doing something about my weight sooner as it may have gone a long way to making things easier in the fertility department. Again, it's not exactly my fault, but I feel the guilt none-the-less. <br />
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<b>9. Did you suffer illness or injury?</b><br />
I was diagnosed with possible Uterine Adenomyosis (they can only confirm with a hysterectomy, hence "possible") and a follocial cyst on my ovary that supposedly shrinks on it's own. Other than that, I was fairly healthy.<br />
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<b>10. What was the best purchase you made?</b><br />
I would have to say the purchases I made in Vegas, from the awesome hat that kept me sunburn free and looking fabulous, to the tickets to Shania and <a href="http://mandalaybay.com/entertainment/michael-jackson-ONE/" target="_blank">Michael Jackson 'One' Cirque du Soleil</a> show, to the afternoon high-tea at the Four Seasons Las Vegas, and all the fabulous dinners and the cabana rentals by the pool. To travel and not indulge in memory-making experiences is so sad.<br />
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<b>11. What things/people inspired you the most? </b><br />
I was inspired by my friends, especially <a href="http://broodingwoman.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Karen</a>. It was a hard year for her with her marital breakdown, but despite it all, she kept a fairly positive attitude and worked on self-improvement, leading to noticeable weight-loss. I don't know if I would have been as focused in a similar situation.<br />
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<b>12. What things/people disappointed you the most?</b><br />
My answer is pretty much the same as #11. My friends...but in a different sense with two tangents. On the one hand, it was disappointing not connecting with friends as much. It takes a lot of effort to maintain friendships. Some people/days are better than other peoples/days at doing so. Don't get me wrong, in many cases it is understandable. But in others situations, maybe not so much. All I can do is work harder myself. Maybe I need to focus on trying to arrange things that are easier to do, like board-game night or movie nights or coffee nights, etc... back to the basics.<br />
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The other aspect is that online "friends" maybe aren't the most supportive. Everyone loves you on Twitter when you go at it with political engagement. Re-tweets and likes and comments galore. But if you share a personal story? Or try to engage in non-political conversations? Perhaps not-so-much. It's time for me to review my list and remove the non-engagers (and the ones that simply offend). Quality not quantity.<br />
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And myself. This diet thing should be a breeze for me by now. It is not.<br />
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<b>13. Where did most of your money go?</b><br />
There were a lot of incidental expenses, such as a new dryer or a new furnace motor. Vegas wasn't cheap either. But really, those are a part of living and you either budget or deal with the situation. But if I had to look at the day-to-day small purchases that add up, it's probably my morning coffee addiction. Assume I spend $5 a workday, that is $100 or so a month, which is $1200 a year. I know I spend more than $5 a day. I can get coffee for free at work. My fatty lattes add calories and drain my bank account.<br />
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<b>14) What did you get really excited about? </b><br />
Seeing my husband every day after work. The fun things we did in Vegas. Joanne's pregnancy announcement. Karen moving to Calgary. The odd scale victory. In an apathetic year, the little things made me happy.<br />
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<b>15) What song will always remind you of 2013?</b><br />
The song<i> 'Shot at the Night'</i> by the Killers. I loved this song above all else. I listen to it all the time. The words resonate. About the person who wants more with their life, a chance to live.<br />
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<b>16) Compared to this time last year, are you:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Happier or hardened? </b>On the whole, I am happier, even if there were things that hardened me.</li>
<li><b>Thinner or fatter? </b>Definitely fatter. Very disappointed with myself there.</li>
<li><b>Richer or poorer? </b>Richer in many ways. Except money. LOL.</li>
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<b>17) What do you wish you'd done more of?</b><br />
I wish I had worked harder at losing weight, and not just going through the motions. I have nothing to show for my efforts. Because there is nothing to show when you don't put in any effort. Funny how that works. Specifically, I wish I had exercised more. </div>
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<b>18) What do you wish you'd done less of?</b></div>
By far, I wish I had spent less time on social media, especially Twitter. That is a time-trap. 5 minutes end up being your whole night. It is silly really. And all this time contributed to question #12...<br />
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<b>19) What was your favourite TV program? Least favourite?</b><br />
Normally I would say <a href="http://www.nbc.com/the-biggest-loser/" target="_blank">The Biggest Loser</a> was my favourite. And it remains a favourite. But I was all over <a href="http://www.nfl.com/" target="_blank">NFL Football</a> in 2013 as well, especially Fox's coverage.<br />
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For least favourite, I would normally say most reality TV shows, and that is true. But can I add some talk-shows? The few days I had off, I was left saying "they cancelled soap operas for <i>that</i>?" It was pathetic, with <a href="http://www.bethenny.com/" target="_blank">Bethenny</a> being the absolute worse.<br />
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<b>20) What was the best book you read? Worst book?</b><br />
I am embarrassed to admit that I didn't end up reading anything in 2013. Well, I did try <a href="http://rebeccaskloot.com/the-immortal-life/" target="_blank"><i>The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks</i> by Rebecca Skloot</a>, based on <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Joanne's</a> recommendation. I wanted to like the book more than I did. It started off interesting, but it lost my interest mid-way when they started dealing with her family. Meh. Sorry Jo!<br />
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<b>21) What was your favourite song/album/artist?</b><br />
I like a few songs, some of which I listed in my <a href="http://divulgewithdani.blogspot.ca/2013/09/fridays-top-five-songs-of-summer-2013.html" target="_blank">summer song blog post</a>. But easily, my favourite song/artist etc. was The Killers's <i>Shot at the Night </i>(which I posted above). I also liked 'Roar' by Katy Perry.<br />
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<b>Least favourite? </b>Most of the country music this year I found I could barely tolerate. It was very pop-driven and generic...and unbelievable and cliched. Every male-artist I think drives a truck on an old-dirt road, slinging a beer with the girl he fancies. Meanwhile, the female artists were scorned lovers. Meh.<br />
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<b>22) What was your:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><b>Favourite film this year?</b> I didn't go to any movies this year, so most of the movies I saw were on TV or DVD. I saw <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1637725/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Ted</a>, which I enjoyed more than I should have. I saw <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0126916/" target="_blank">For The Love of the Game</a> with Kevin Costner and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087781/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">The Natural</a> with Robert Redford, both baseball movies, for the first time. I liked the former a bit more than the latter, but both were good. Oh, I also saw <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1047540/?ref_=nm_flmg_act_5" target="_blank">Parental Guidance</a> on the place (starring Billy Crystal). It was enjoyable.</li>
<li><b>Worst film? </b>I can't think of anything in particular. <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0866439/" target="_blank">Made of Honor</a> was on TV and I ended up turning it off mid-way. Was it bad, or was I just not in the mood? Meh. </li>
</ul>
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<b>23) What was the one thing that would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? </b></div>
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Any number of things. A pregnancy. Weigh Loss. A better job. Pick one. </div>
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<b>24) How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2013?</b></div>
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Fat Pants 'R Us. </div>
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<b>25) What kept you sane?</b></div>
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Beaumaris Lake walks with my husband. Just being able to unwind with fresh air and beautiful scenery. </div>
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<b>26) Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most? Fancy the least? </b><br />
Nobody really. I appreciate those who use their celebrity to do good things in society. But so much of what is reported is the trash stuff. I do secretly admire some of the European Royals (if I had to pick somebody). They weren't chosen for their roles, but they go out and raise awareness for causes. But if someone has a name ending with Kardashian, I am simply not interested.<br />
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<b>27) What political issues stirred you the most? The least?</b><br />
The most would probably be the <a href="http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/alberta-floods-2013/index.html" target="_blank">High Level/Calgary floods</a>. So much devastation that will have a huge impact on the future of Alberta for years to come. There were some politicians who rose to the occasion (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naheed_Nenshi" target="_blank">Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi</a>), and some who failed (<a href="http://alberta.ca/premier.cfm" target="_blank">Premier Alison Redford and her government</a>, who continue to fail on this issue).<br />
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The least might be either the Idle No More protests or the Edmonton Election.<br />
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<b>28) What news story did you like the most? Hate the most?</b><br />
I liked stories of where communities and people came together and rose above to help in dire situations, especially during the Alberta floods. As Mr. Roger's says:<br />
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I dislike any story in which, while protesting, laws are broken or people are hurt. Whatever support I have for their cause goes out the window when that happens. I also dislike NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) issues pertaining to social housing issues.<br />
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<b>29) What sports moment did you like the most? Hate the most?</b><br />
For me personally, the decision to start watching NFL. I have enjoyed watching the games, especially the Dallas Cowboys. It's a good bonding experience with my husband as well. There have been a few games this season that have been simply spectacular and enjoyable.<br />
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The most disappointing was the <a href="http://oilers.nhl.com/" target="_blank">Edmonton Oiler</a>s. I so wanted to get back into hockey. I so wanted to cheer for the team. The Oilers had a lot of promise and this was supposed to be the year when all the rebuilding efforts paid off. It's far from that. It's not just a bad season. It's an embarrassing season.<br />
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<b>30) Favourite blog (other than yours)? Blog Posts (other than yours?).</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Favourite Blog: </b>Going with my BFF's <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">A Warm Cup of Jo</a> & <a href="http://broodingwoman.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">The Brooding Woman</a>. I also am madly addicted to <a href="http://orderofsplendor.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">A Royal Order of Sartorial Splendor</a> for my royal fix. </li>
<li><b>Fave Blog Post #1: </b><a href="http://broodingwoman.blogspot.ca/2013/09/the-un-anniversary.html" target="_blank">The Un-Anniversary</a>. This post moved me to tears. Part because I know her personally. Part because I was in her wedding and I wish I could have done something more before or during to help. Part because she is so open and honest about her painful journey. She is a strong woman my Wren. </li>
<li><b>Fave Blog Post #2: </b><a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/2013/02/roots-and-wings.html" target="_blank">Roots & Wings.</a> Jo weaved a beautiful story together. A very moving post. </li>
<li><b>Fave Blog Post #3:<a href="http://www.darwinianfail.com/2013/11/am-i-really-okay.html" target="_blank"> </a></b><a href="http://www.darwinianfail.com/2013/11/am-i-really-okay.html" target="_blank">Am I REALLY ok?</a> I discovered this blog, The Misadventures of a Darwinian Fail, over the Christmas holidays. This post resonated with me.</li>
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<b>31) Favourite Blog Post (of yours?)</b></div>
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I didn't have a stellar blogging year. Mostly just Top Five posts, which were fine, except they were supposed to inspire me to blog more...not be my only posts. LOL. But there were some that were good.</div>
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<ul>
<li><b>#3: </b><a href="http://divulgewithdani.blogspot.ca/2013/02/lent-and-social-media-experiment.html" target="_blank">Lent & the social media experiment</a></li>
<li><b>#2: </b><a href="http://divulgewithdani.blogspot.ca/2013/02/ash-wednesday-fraility.html" target="_blank">Frailties</a></li>
<li><b>#1: </b><a href="http://divulgewithdani.blogspot.ca/2013/06/i-saw-pelican-and-did-not-take-picture.html" target="_blank">I saw a pelican and did not take a picture. Why that matters.</a> </li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>32) Who is your 2013 Person of the Year? </b></div>
</div>
<br />
My husband. He is such a great person and I love him so much. He is genuinely my best friend. <br />
<br />
<b>33) Who do you miss?</b><br />
Well I always miss Wendy. This year drove home just how important she was.<br />
<br />I also miss the Dani that was enthusiastic about things. The skinny Dani. The healthy Dani. The confident Dani.<br />
<br />
<b>34) Tell us a valuable life less you learned in 2013.</b><br />
I learned (and am continuing to learn) that real-life moments and people matter. More so than social media and the people you connect. Life, and pictures of, doesn't always need to be shared with strangers.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>35) Quote a song lyric that sums up your year? </b><br />
"It's like you're always stuck in second gear. When it hasn't been your day, you week, your month or even your year." - The Rembrandt's <i>I'll Be There For You.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>36) What do you look forward to in 2014?</b><br />
Connecting with friends. Going out and doing stuff in this city of ours, rather than sitting at home. Maybe getting pregnant. Our Pacific Coast driving vacation. Living life.<br />
<i><br /></i>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8lXrZlwUSVcI54Y1zgCcLsgDEFEaD1kYUIn0xL6ZP7PyJNXHUlbJU1YZEzPvPgnVmVvh2zSyFCL608Ly9CWN4xL17-6P9P9QS_SosWnOzDwrs9RO7jwDVdTb6Ew06Kd8tuk1h4mVBdM/s1600/if-you-dont-know-where-you-are-going-alice-in-wonderland.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8lXrZlwUSVcI54Y1zgCcLsgDEFEaD1kYUIn0xL6ZP7PyJNXHUlbJU1YZEzPvPgnVmVvh2zSyFCL608Ly9CWN4xL17-6P9P9QS_SosWnOzDwrs9RO7jwDVdTb6Ew06Kd8tuk1h4mVBdM/s1600/if-you-dont-know-where-you-are-going-alice-in-wonderland.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-593768205448658132013-12-06T11:47:00.001-07:002013-12-06T11:47:24.230-07:00The Friday Five Catch-Up Post: Lots of Lists<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhyjA1g2yySLFS8B635UrS5hhozYVG44rfALFdiwuDeV0ZtCWgoQXh_p-DU_wcQFa9XZKpTiHWubVa-6SQlMk_SRgCGI-wxLHn1-KOGk_i9ufuiAyCEOo0bz_wYskkRB0EKGKk4aUiBQ/s1600/productivity_curve.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhyjA1g2yySLFS8B635UrS5hhozYVG44rfALFdiwuDeV0ZtCWgoQXh_p-DU_wcQFa9XZKpTiHWubVa-6SQlMk_SRgCGI-wxLHn1-KOGk_i9ufuiAyCEOo0bz_wYskkRB0EKGKk4aUiBQ/s400/productivity_curve.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Truth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Hey faithful readers,<br />
<br />
I am so far behind in the Friday Fives that I will just do one big uninspiring post. When you are done reading my lame thoughts, go see the far more inspiring thoughts on this issues by visiting the blogs of <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">A Warm Cup of Jo</a> and <a href="http://broodingwoman.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">The Brooding Woman</a>. I suck.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: yellow;"><b>Top Five Favourite Charities</b> </span><span style="background-color: white;">(originally supposed to be published November 8th).</span><br />
<b>5) <a href="http://www.catholicsocialservices.ab.ca/CatholicSocialServices/default.aspx" target="_blank">Catholic Social Services</a> & <a href="http://www.ccare.ca/" target="_blank">Chalice</a></b><br />
Both Catholic agencies do amazing work and are highly rated as top charities in Canada. CSS deals with many inner-city and immigration services. Chalice (the #1 rated charity in Canada with the lowest administrative fees) helps people around the world.<br />
<br />
<b>4) <a href="http://www.winhouse.org/" target="_blank">The WIN House</a> <i>(Edmonton's Woman Shelter) </i></b><br />
Without going into too much detail, I've lived in one of their shelters. They helped my mom during a horrible time of domestic and familial abuse. So thus, I help them. They do good things for women, getting them back on their feet and directing them to the resources to help them get out of abusive situations.<br />
<br />
<b>3) <a href="http://www.poppyfund.ca/" target="_blank">The Royal Canadian Legion's Poppy Fund</a></b><br />
One of the easiest ways to help veterans, who did so much for us, is to make a donation and wear your poppy. It requires next to no effort, yet does so much good.<br />
<br />
<b>2) <a href="http://www.stollerykids.com/" target="_blank">The Stollery Children's Hospital Charitable Foundation</a></b><br />
When I was sick with Lofgren's Syndrome, I spent a lot of time at the University of Alberta Hospital visiting doctors or doing tests. Many of my appointments were near the Stollery Children's Hospital ER. Seeing these little vulnerable children suffering put my own into perspective.<br />
<br />
<b>1) <a href="http://edmontonsfoodbank.com/" target="_blank">The Edmonton Food Bank</a></b><br />
Again, another super easy charity to help that does SO MUCH for the community. Having been on the recipient end of their assistance during my childhood, I value what they do. It takes no effort to leave an extra box or tin in the donation booth at Safeway. Or to bring a bag of non-perishable items from your pantry to events like Heritage Days or Candy Cane Lane.<br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: yellow;">Top Five Things in My Purse </b>(originally supposed to be published November 15th)<br />
<b>5) My inhaler</b> (can't leave home without it, especially in the winter)<br />
<b>4) Tampons</b> (do they really need to be explained?)<br />
<b>3) Chapstick</b> (winter wreaks havoc on my lips)<br />
<b>2) Coupons/Stamp Cards</b> (I love bargains)<br />
<b>1) Starbucks free Ipad app/music cards</b> (I keep picking them up. Probably should use them soon)<br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: yellow;">Top Five Things I Would Do If I Won the Lottery</b> (originally supposed to be published November 22)<br />
<b>5) Donate to select charities</b>: see above<br />
<br />
<b>4) Buy a Lake House</b><br />
Doesn't have to be particularly large or fancy. Just a modest house on the lake within driving distance of Edmonton that we, along with friends and family, can get away to. Probably Ma-Me-O Beach or Wizard Lake.<br />
<br />
<b>3) Buy my mom a house</b><br />
She did a lot for me. The least I can do for her, so that she can save the money she is paying in rent and put it towards her retirement and leisure pursuits.<br />
<br />
<b>2) Buy a vacation home in Vegas</b><br />
We go there a lot. It's central to other travel destinations. My parent-in-laws and some of their relations travel there every year. Why not?<br />
<br />
<b>1) Travel </b><br />
Oh this great world. So many places to go. So little money. A lottery might change that reality!<br />
<br />
_________<br />
<br />
I think that is it. I am all caught up! Except for today's post. There might be a simple recipe post I missed, but who am I fooling saying I cook with any great consistency. Boston Pizza exists for a reason.<br />
<br />
<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-39688696386051655102013-12-04T11:13:00.000-07:002013-12-06T11:15:53.882-07:00Friday's Top Five: Childhood Toys<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW1BLeY8GQ6iNRVs60mT6ubWA-MgC1MX7BCvO4yDd14tO33iKsGfBUlBl_UeCNMFJdOaWgHW2zd0t3hZARYyOcFraHyePCjrwV8l0fo8N1ESEtjhSJWIZQVVYMGPNiAklUwMOF6OARCL0/s1600/red+rover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW1BLeY8GQ6iNRVs60mT6ubWA-MgC1MX7BCvO4yDd14tO33iKsGfBUlBl_UeCNMFJdOaWgHW2zd0t3hZARYyOcFraHyePCjrwV8l0fo8N1ESEtjhSJWIZQVVYMGPNiAklUwMOF6OARCL0/s320/red+rover.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Total Truth.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
*Note: Still catching-up...this should have been published on November 1st. Ahem. Don't forget to check the blogs of <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">A Warm Cup of Jo</a> & <a href="http://broodingwoman.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">The Brooding Woman</a>, and <a href="http://apieceofapple.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">A Piece of Apple</a> for their takes.<br />
<br />
Hello faithful readers of five!<br />
<br />
Today is one of the rare days where I am not only caught up on my work, but also caught up on my make-work projects. I mean, I suppose there is things I could do. But why bother, when I can blog instead? In any event, I am so far behind in my Friday Five blogs that today is as good as any to catch-up.<br />
<br />
There is much to love about the 80's. As a kid the 80's, toys were awesome. Toys are o.k. now I suppose, but they are all "safe for kids & the environment." Boring. Life is not lived unless there is a real risk of injury or lead-poisoning.<br />
<br />
Without further ado, here are my favourite childhood toys.<br />
<br />
<b>5) The Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6q7BCLDB9RSuwoibvcs94vgJbvlpeLjqM26rqR5vEkxR5huhCmRF555NVN5yJ5mBKGxoQQx3NZw0Pvr_53hwKUOejvvU8xbF31AyZcLBn37l1b750HHgXAb8LgUtePJioUGXTcha6yg/s1600/Snoopy+Sno-Cone+Machine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6q7BCLDB9RSuwoibvcs94vgJbvlpeLjqM26rqR5vEkxR5huhCmRF555NVN5yJ5mBKGxoQQx3NZw0Pvr_53hwKUOejvvU8xbF31AyZcLBn37l1b750HHgXAb8LgUtePJioUGXTcha6yg/s320/Snoopy+Sno-Cone+Machine.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you want to know why childhood obesity really took a foothold in the eighties, I present you with the Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine. This was the first toy I can remember wanting so bad. Every kid wanted to make their own slushie. This led to other culinary food-as-toys like the E-Z Bake Oven. It was cool for a while, until I discovered it was a lot easier to just run out and grab some snow from the backyard...<br />
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<b>4) The Rubix Cube</b><br />
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<b><br /></b>
Ah, the timeless rubix cube. It was a great time waster. Until you got frustrated and just peeled the stickers off.<br />
<br />
<b>3) The Cabbage Patch Doll</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg08bM0ZNtMzFCsJ9qVsXjxV7W7uaDg08ChSKs6t4OvIrhxpfq6zVqVAa49tJDqcKrsE7Or8AvmA6kH49GSP6MJHgGIB-N2OKXD4tP8iWTM_6ptfLG93PxjPHdJwDWRUNtJoezuf7DXiWY/s1600/cabbage-patch-kids_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg08bM0ZNtMzFCsJ9qVsXjxV7W7uaDg08ChSKs6t4OvIrhxpfq6zVqVAa49tJDqcKrsE7Or8AvmA6kH49GSP6MJHgGIB-N2OKXD4tP8iWTM_6ptfLG93PxjPHdJwDWRUNtJoezuf7DXiWY/s320/cabbage-patch-kids_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Sad story that really speaks to the poverty of my childhood. When every kid in the world was getting this toy, I begged my mom for one. She obviously couldn't afford a real doll, so she got me a "imitation" Cabbage Patch. I knew it wasn't real, but other kids didn't. I wrote the signature on the bum myself, created a fake certificate using crayons, and named her Rebecca (my favourite name as a grade 2 kid). I think I eventually got a real one when Dad got a job in the patch. But I didn't love the fancy one as much as I loved Rebecca.<br />
<br />
<b>2) Atari</b><br />
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It's hard to believe in the world of Play Stations, X-Box's, and Smart phones that at one time, <i>this</i> was cutting edge technology. I spent hours trying to save my 2-dimensional pixels from the fire in towering inferno.<br />
<br />
<b>1) Board Games</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3lp0QH6RvIOTL3geiStVi-u1-Z3MY1CX672k5asRpbZddgID15iCxw3TRcYDh2MhA0zDkSoGAkMF8Y_T1txurfIRrrm39J_eVm8CWBWZMqwYRl6r7pzxj3bSh-TTsWOmxIl4Z8DwKug/s1600/game+of+life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT3lp0QH6RvIOTL3geiStVi-u1-Z3MY1CX672k5asRpbZddgID15iCxw3TRcYDh2MhA0zDkSoGAkMF8Y_T1txurfIRrrm39J_eVm8CWBWZMqwYRl6r7pzxj3bSh-TTsWOmxIl4Z8DwKug/s320/game+of+life.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There was nothing that passed the time better than board games...or 'bored' games depending on how you view this past-time. The game of Life in particular was one of my favourites. You built a life depending on the spin and route you took, with the choices you made earlier in the game having consequences later on. Which is kind of like real life. Except I am pretty sure I will never have the kind of money my character did in the board game, 'cuz real life sucks.<br />
<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-9758978064944731042013-11-07T15:52:00.001-07:002013-11-07T15:52:17.067-07:00Friday's Top Five: Movies I Have Watched Repeatedly.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Hello faithful readers of five,<br />
<br />
This is yet another catch-up post that I was going to originally blog about on October 18th until work interfered with my life, as it is apt to do.<br />
<br />
This was a difficult topic to blog about because I had to narrow my choices down to five. I am that person who re-watches movies. I could probably make this a list of 12, and still struggle to narrow it down. I decided to use the "is-it-on-TV-a-lot-and-do-you-stop-every-time-to-watch-it" criteria. I eliminated Labyrinth and Willow primarily because they are never shown on TV. But that still leaves me with 10. Damn it. <br />
<br />
To hell with it. It's my blog. So I will present to you my<strong> Top 10</strong> movies I have watched repeatedly! <br />
<br />
<strong>10) Pride & Prejudice (the 1995 BBC Version staring Colin Firth).</strong><br />
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It's the movie that started my Austen-mania crazy. It is also the movie that introduced me to Colin Firth, for which I will be forever grateful. It also satisfies my inner-petticoat-fan girl. Plus any movie that showcases the Promenade dancing style is perfect. Simply perfect. <br />
<br />
<strong>9) Tremors</strong><br />
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This movie is hilarious. It is about underground worm-like monsters that try to swallow-up an isolated town. It stars Kevin Bacon and Reba. I could, and have, watched this repeatedly. It's low-budget but high entertainment. We shall never speak of the sequels, but this one is solid gold. <br />
<br />
<strong>8) The Sandlot</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
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You guys, this is a <em><strong>great movie</strong></em>. I have blogged about <a href="http://divulgewithdani.blogspot.ca/2013/03/fridays-top-five-baseball-themed.html" target="_blank">my love of this movie</a> before, but I really cannot emphasise how much I love this movie. It is narrated in that nostalgic wonder-years type of format, but it is a great coming-of-age type of movie. It captures that innocent moment of youth that we all long to return to and hope our children experience. It's a baseball movie...but it is so much more than that. Even better if you can watch it on a big screen in the middle of a baseball field, like I did with Joanne and Steve that one perfect summer. <br />
<br />
<strong>7) You've Got Mail/When Harry Met Sally</strong><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhszB0dJFVxXm2ssRSjh7LqayynwqASoNaLcOc8QEvlkCsU7piKjMCf3ruqXTnpLk9VhV9i_8MG9xw4Rn0_yIusnGVJ_a_MByZQjW_xql65TQxI5J9GfM7mSdGyF_u7uLuQNKo26h6yfg/s1600/nora-ephron-movies-when-harry-met-sally-youve-got-mail-julie-and-julia.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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<br />
I know I am cheating by including two movies into one. But both these movies have two common links:<br />
<ul>
<li>they both star Meg Ryan</li>
<li>they both perfectly capture the era of my youth</li>
</ul>
In WHMS, you have two people who meet at various stages of their life but do not hook up because the timing is not right. Then the timing becomes right, but that means a sacrifice of the safety of a platonic friendship.<br />
<br />
In YGM, you have two people who meet on this new-found phenomenon called the internet, with it's dial-up-AOL-chat glory (hilarious in retrospect). In real life, they are "enemies" who become "frenimies" who become "friends" and finally a couple. <br />
<br />
Both movies are like peeling back a layer of an onion to get to that magical romantic place.<br />
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<strong>6) The Breakfast Club</strong><br />
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<br />
Don't you, forget about me. <br />
<br />
Still relevant for today's youth. It's definitely showing it's age, but aren't we all? LOL. <br />
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<b>5) Dirty Dancing</b><br />
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Nobody puts Baby in the corner. I watched this movie 100 times with my cousin Samantha and my aunt Shauna. When my cousin and I were younger, we would watch, rewind, watch again, rewind, watch again. And again. And again...<br />
<br />
<b>4) James Bond Movies (all of them)</b><br />
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<br />
My husband is a big James Bond fan. When I casually admitted last-year that I had never seen a Bond movie, my husband made sure to rectify that situation. So over a period of a few weeks, I watched ever single Bond movie in order that my husband preferred. I have become such a big fan. I engage in the debates over who the best Bond is, what is the best Bond movie, intro, girl, villain and so forth. No wonder this movie franchise will not die. Because it's good, yo!<br />
<br />
<b>3) Forrest Gump</b><br />
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<b><br /></b>
This is one of my favourite all-time movies. I love the simplicity against the backdrop of a complex and fascinating history. A classic of our era.<br />
<br />
<b>2) A League of Their Own</b><br />
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<br />
I mad-love this movie. It is one of those movies that will appear on TV repeatedly every year over the summer. It is about women in baseball, but has depth and emotion. It's great, and has a killer good soundtrack too.<br />
<br />
<b>1) Love Actually</b><br />
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<br />
This is my husband and mine's favourite movie. We watch it every winter (and sometimes again in the Spring/Summer). We even had our wedding song based from this movie. It is "our" movie. I watch it when I am looking for hope in humanity, or want to spend a romantic evening with my husband. This is my favorite movie of all time. The intro above is food for thought.<br />
<br />
Head over to <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/2013/10/fridays-top-five-movies-i-have-watched.html" target="_blank">A Warm Cup of Jo</a>, <a href="http://broodingwoman.blogspot.ca/2013/10/top-5-movies-i-have-watched-repeatedly.html" target="_blank">The Brooding Woman </a>and <a href="http://apieceofapple.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">A Piece of Apple</a> to see what they like!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-663120501480528102013-11-04T11:09:00.003-07:002013-11-04T11:09:50.786-07:00Friday's Top Five: Myths Debunked<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqM7XZ_skb6Y11B2zKKHj9SXCoYG5PULTYQkacSSP1FXG832k1ipbipe6FVWpGeK0C-L6noDohp7F4si6LQMc_5ezkm5DsPcjeBkkDFHmcYy6vSdYsNHk3USEvGoxjjmHZdUmjp1gcIN4/s1600/myth_debunked.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqM7XZ_skb6Y11B2zKKHj9SXCoYG5PULTYQkacSSP1FXG832k1ipbipe6FVWpGeK0C-L6noDohp7F4si6LQMc_5ezkm5DsPcjeBkkDFHmcYy6vSdYsNHk3USEvGoxjjmHZdUmjp1gcIN4/s1600/myth_debunked.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Hello faithful readers of five:<br />
<br />
This is yet another catch-up post. This was supposed to be posted on October 11, but alas, work interferes with my social life <em>again</em>. I am pretty sure it was Joanne who came up with this topic, and it's a toughie. My responses are more anecdotal. I am not sure if they technically count as debunked if I was stupid enough to fall for the lie to begin with. As well, I am going to suggest things that maybe haven't been debunked. But this is my blog, and all that really matters is my opinion really. LOL. <br />
<br />
<strong>5) Activity has no effect on weigh-loss (it will only help with maintenance).</strong><br />
<br />
I have heard repeatedly from different sources (including the Weight Wise Clinic of the hospital) that activity doesn't have as much an effect on weight-loss as diet. The rational is that you need to do a significant amount of exercise (more than the average person can reasonably do) to burn off any significant calories. I understand the point of what they are saying - that thinking if you go to the gym for an hour, that it will negate the DQ Blizzard you ate on the way home. So that extent, yes, that is true. <br />
<br />
However, I know that if I have weeks where I don't do at least three slow-to-moderate paced walks of one hour long walks, I gain wait or stay the same. Activity seems to be the difference when all other things are equal. <br />
<br />
<strong>4) A University degree is your meal-ticket to a more prosperous job compared to any other level of post secondary education.</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
Bullshit. <br />
<br />
<strong>3) Working for a non-profit charitable or religious organisation means the employer will treat the employee better.</strong><br />
<br />
Let's just put it this way. There is a difference between doing God's work, and working for the Church. At the end of the day, you are still just an employee. An underpaid one at that. <br />
<br />
<strong>2) T.V. Shows and Movies you loved as a child are just as good now.</strong> <br />
<br />
I will argue over and over again that comedies/dramas were better "back in the day" then they are now. That is largely true. But truthfully, not every show has stood the test of time. I am looking at you Alf.<br />
<br />
<b>1) You will have the wedding of your dreams. </b><br />
<br />
I loved getting married. I love my husband to death and back. But to clarify, I am referring to the actual wedding ceremony itself. <br />
<br />
You can have all the images you want of the type of wedding you will have growing up. The type of dress. The colour choices. Where you will go. Who you will have as your attendants. What your first song will be. <br />
<br />
Then you meet the guy. And oh, he has a large family who he is close to. So there goes the "wedding in Banff" idea. That fall wedding you dreamed of becomes a summer wedding to accommodate your teacher friends and out-of-town guests. The colours you want, you can't find. The dress you want you can't find because that is not the style. Things are more expensive then you anticipated, so there goes the chair covers and big centerpieces. One of your attendant dies/moves/get's pregnant. Your mom/mother-in-law have their own wish lists. He can't stand the song you like. The reality of what you have budgeted doesn't match the reality of the true cost of getting married. The list goes on. And on. And on.<br />
<br />
You can still have a dream-wedding. But, like the rest of your married life, be prepared for compromise.<br />
<br />
Check out what <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">A Warm Cup of Jo</a>, <a href="http://broodingwoman.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">The Brooding Woman</a>, and <a href="http://apieceofapple.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">A Piece of Apple</a> have to say on this topic.<br />
<br />
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<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-3120184839577072222013-10-15T11:59:00.001-06:002013-10-18T22:49:29.950-06:00Friday's Top Five: Favourite Places to Visit in Edmonton<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SydrpIVwIvPot7KCQCjB-vuzbrh4f14WJ2qcIWUc2zM-lAp4dWO-yEGI_jeAORF7tmGTK4PiobBocqJd8syg5DKqng0b1up_RK4GGhV4BUSLc8twQkq9C8alegtBHdnQ0Ua99EroR1A/s1600/edmonton-thelocalgood.ca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SydrpIVwIvPot7KCQCjB-vuzbrh4f14WJ2qcIWUc2zM-lAp4dWO-yEGI_jeAORF7tmGTK4PiobBocqJd8syg5DKqng0b1up_RK4GGhV4BUSLc8twQkq9C8alegtBHdnQ0Ua99EroR1A/s400/edmonton-thelocalgood.ca.jpg" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: thelocalgood.ca </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
Hello faithful readers of five,<br>
<br>
I am a few blogs late. This should have been published on October 4th. My life was crazy busy, especially at work. And stressful. And kind of shitty. That's how it goes sometimes. Which is why this post is particularly apt. <br>
<br>
When I need to get away from it all, but travelling out of the city is not an option, then here are some really great gems that I visit in Edmonton. They are only a small list of the fabulous places to visit, and some places have either been left off (since the list is 5, not 50)....or combined for similarity. <br>
<br>
<strong>5) 124th Street</strong><br>
<strong></strong><br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFInXJB0J2ttSwCi9QeDkW2Q5jDR1r1UaN7Xzu3ZJrqHVvXdFBmVCjRLhrLckCqYI2ZBSDNmBo0E9rqG3Vx9vWAZjRTNydqW3R7YODYtLKSjgr8MM-KjRhZgX4wdB53qHFiMgGBszAOc/s1600/for_web_map124-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFInXJB0J2ttSwCi9QeDkW2Q5jDR1r1UaN7Xzu3ZJrqHVvXdFBmVCjRLhrLckCqYI2ZBSDNmBo0E9rqG3Vx9vWAZjRTNydqW3R7YODYtLKSjgr8MM-KjRhZgX4wdB53qHFiMgGBszAOc/s320/for_web_map124-2.jpg" width="262"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: avenueedmonton.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
Back in early days of Edmonton's history, 124th street was a vibrant avenue with many shops, being that it was one of the "main" streets of Edmonton. Then as time went on, it sort of fell into this dreary street of riff-raff and disrepair. I remember as a kid there not being much to 124th street except for Pinnochio's Ice Cream. Some time around the mid-90's, the push to revitalize downtown emerged. 124th Street is a textbook example of what happens when people of passion and vision come together. This street is wonderful to visit, with so many trendy and classy places to eat and shop at, all the while maintaining it's historical charm and inviting atmosphere. I haven't walked the full street in a while, because I keep getting distracted by the yummy gelato at <a href="http://www.cococochocolatiers.com/" target="_blank">Cocoa Choclatiers</a>!<br>
<br>
4) Telus World of Science<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8qondrj8laMaa-XZsM3mkRXiz6RZSnhZVnEvUyhYI_copiGQS9oybbDOxPzWgnIvoQTBExpnjoWJgJNxezKfTRDdzNN-Xdr1IFONgEay-zlIdoQIFWY69_tFinFwUXnCe1zl5vqGboLY/s640/blogger-image--1217004109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8qondrj8laMaa-XZsM3mkRXiz6RZSnhZVnEvUyhYI_copiGQS9oybbDOxPzWgnIvoQTBExpnjoWJgJNxezKfTRDdzNN-Xdr1IFONgEay-zlIdoQIFWY69_tFinFwUXnCe1zl5vqGboLY/s640/blogger-image--1217004109.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div><div>I used to find this place boring as a kid. Primarily because I didn't particularly care for science. But as an adult, I have come to love this place. They have brought some very neat exhibits, like The Star Wars exhibit and the upcoming Harry Potter exhibit. The Imax films are imcredible. It is simply fun. </div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">3) Art Gallery of Alberta</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh98FNug0Hohlkul0UrQtskzkjwR8iyXKYhIba2LH2Py8YNzUZTm2fkpWEetk4exnGedDdqJKich-VB9cGm0BA0TqUBZh4mkvdb000N2j-itML8_JNeejW_oTKJOKQaGN-1-Im0rtzuvcQ/s640/blogger-image--80922265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh98FNug0Hohlkul0UrQtskzkjwR8iyXKYhIba2LH2Py8YNzUZTm2fkpWEetk4exnGedDdqJKich-VB9cGm0BA0TqUBZh4mkvdb000N2j-itML8_JNeejW_oTKJOKQaGN-1-Im0rtzuvcQ/s640/blogger-image--80922265.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div>
True story: I fell in love with the man that is now my husband at the Art Gallery. It was our third date, and my first time there. We were at the Yousef Karsh exhibit. We have been there a few times. I was initially critical of building this. I am now grateful the AGA exists. </div><div><br>
2) Alberta Legislature Grounds</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYUKkBORHOh2wJKaC494C8_dATpcvsbWPD_0Gy2qfO0ej79xhb5ohZPgADKGwUKAkTCZG0oUsiGaOfeUnAoO4gLRSu7WcQ8tq6UwBUo2Dww7ueygm9m4z2M2Ta9aCbKeJmpHLW8t1Phc/s640/blogger-image--2018310612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYUKkBORHOh2wJKaC494C8_dATpcvsbWPD_0Gy2qfO0ej79xhb5ohZPgADKGwUKAkTCZG0oUsiGaOfeUnAoO4gLRSu7WcQ8tq6UwBUo2Dww7ueygm9m4z2M2Ta9aCbKeJmpHLW8t1Phc/s640/blogger-image--2018310612.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>My husband and I come here after church to walk and hangout. It's "our" place. We had our wedding photos there. Canada Day at the legislature grounds is our tradition, where we participate in the oath. They have done a good job with the design, making it a great place for individuals, couples and families to hang out. <br>
<br>
1) Beaumaris Lake <br>
</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT7JboRmA6AWJRoNdqJagW2ylHe7m9P2R0fYyNSqClm4BK6mRT7ppYW2wfq8FNVnamiVGSiF5k0x-QTA1xZ9KcujlMZ3emdAGBqycbFlIXAlk-KA-5bsfkHvGIpAYqssmal_rqQx2N-rU/s640/blogger-image-1426961081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT7JboRmA6AWJRoNdqJagW2ylHe7m9P2R0fYyNSqClm4BK6mRT7ppYW2wfq8FNVnamiVGSiF5k0x-QTA1xZ9KcujlMZ3emdAGBqycbFlIXAlk-KA-5bsfkHvGIpAYqssmal_rqQx2N-rU/s640/blogger-image-1426961081.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>This is my hidden gem, and close to my home. I go there for a few times a week. It is an enjoyabe walking path, and greatly designed to look natural. Everytime we go there, there is something slightly different to see, depending on the weather or season etc. The pic above is mine, taken at sunset in summer, with no photo edit. Same with the following, which was taken in fall. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgpLmQAikOk43hCrWMedKBLiC6xyK1GrDTE7SGYRaPMrj8gGCyp51WP-YXv4SBb-4bY84XfpjHX9ZpBkjsYXwiOJkTHJhjGwGod7tg3o9aYMflOJuuoEV-HxQ8Z4c3WcasVj6s0Wi7CU/s640/blogger-image--1534934303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgpLmQAikOk43hCrWMedKBLiC6xyK1GrDTE7SGYRaPMrj8gGCyp51WP-YXv4SBb-4bY84XfpjHX9ZpBkjsYXwiOJkTHJhjGwGod7tg3o9aYMflOJuuoEV-HxQ8Z4c3WcasVj6s0Wi7CU/s640/blogger-image--1534934303.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I have other places I like, like Hawrelak Park, The Museum, and so on. There is a lot to enjoy in Edmonton. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Check out Joanne's, Karen's & Bronwyn's blog to see where they like to go in Edmonton. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">P.S. Still can't figure out how to link on the blogspot app! </div><br></div>Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-24062460283400472362013-09-28T15:26:00.001-06:002013-09-28T15:26:38.217-06:00Friday's Top Five - Five Things I Love About Fall<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiYlbxgMo8UN03gZcbGjd4zzKqGu3ydaiB4LD_QAxDEncc2FZ4echaceqV1hgeP0v2Z6QcSdPjPyf392pem4qD6rInZuIJzPlWggCul2JmI8oAyf6bplI1JvaFQt9gufp_7xkSAvwdSyU/s640/blogger-image--1312849516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiYlbxgMo8UN03gZcbGjd4zzKqGu3ydaiB4LD_QAxDEncc2FZ4echaceqV1hgeP0v2Z6QcSdPjPyf392pem4qD6rInZuIJzPlWggCul2JmI8oAyf6bplI1JvaFQt9gufp_7xkSAvwdSyU/s640/blogger-image--1312849516.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div>Hello faithful readers of five, <div><br><div>Autumn is my favourite time of the year. I could write a list of twenty, but alas. The crisp but pleasant weather, the beautiful colours....what is not to love? But the obvious reasons aside, there are some lesser reasons why Fall is the greatest season. Without further ado...</div><div><br></div><div><b>5) Harvest Fruits & Vegetables</b></div><div>We have had to buy very little vegetables this month because my husbands parents keep giving us vegetables from the garden. From beets to zucchini, cucumber to carrots, and endless tomatoes, our fridge crisper looks like a cornucopia of plenty. Famers markets have endless goodies, and the fresh stuff tastes awesome! I sit in eager anticipation of Safeway's annual apple sale, where the much loved Ambrosia apple makes a comeback. I have traditionally done the best on my diet in Fall. Is there any wonder why? </div><div><br></div><div><b>4) Maple & Pumpkin & Apple flavoured EVERYTHING</b></div></div><div>I love the flavour of Maple. Maple syrup, maple candy, maple coffee... I also love Pumpkin flavoured things like pumpkin pie and pumpkin spice latte. Then there are apple pies and apple crisps and apple ciders. Autumn is when bakers and coffee makers seem to switch from the refreshing flavours of berry and citrus, to the warm and cozy flavours like pumpkin, maple, and apple. I heartily approve! </div><div><br></div><div><b>3) Goodbye frizzy summer hair! </b></div><div>Autumn is awesome three-month period of the year where I don't like I stuck my finger into an electrical socket. There is no humidity. Now granted, there is no humidity in winter wither, but the toque ruins everything. So for three blessed months, my hair is awesome and shiny and FLAT. This summer was particularly bad for humidity, and my hair was aweful, to my great anxiety. As a bonus<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">, I also like that I can wear pants again, which means I can go a day or two, or three, or four without shaving! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><b>2) Walks are enjoyable...and bearable. </b></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">As I said in my previous post on summer, my husband and I go for a lot of walks. Walks in the summer are great in that I don't have to wear a jacket and the scenery is nice. But summer walking also has pitfalls. Mosquitos, rain, heat...all can make a pleasant walk less so (or not at all). In Autumn, there are no mosquitos, and the weather is largely moderate with little to no rain. The temperature is crisp, but not cold. In fact, most days are warm, and all you need is a light sweater. But the sun doesn't beat down on you like a furnace. Add the gorgeous colours and nice smells, and walking in Autumn is simply great. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><b>1) The return to routine.</b></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Summer is great, but it is also an extremely disruptive season. School is out so the kids are at home. Bus schedules change. People go on vacations, so work sort of comes to a stop (or alternately, you end up having to always "cover" a position which adds to your workload). Every event or vacation or summer wedding blows your diet all to hell. Programs at the gym seem to take a hiatus. Everything on TV is reruns.The pace of summer just seems to either slow down in a lazy way, or is so busy to the point of franticness. In Autumn, everyone is more-or-less back from holidays. Kids are back to school. New & returning programs come to TV and in the gyms. I feel a bit more in control of life. It's a good thing, especially for my diet? Lol. </font></div><div><br></div><div>So that is it. Mosey over to see what Joanne, Karen & Bronwyn like about fall. </div><div><br></div><div>P.S. I typed this on my IPad Blogger app, so sorry for any errors. Still not sure how to hyperlink my friends blogs, so I will do so on Monday. </div>Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-40485124117940842652013-09-24T15:40:00.002-06:002013-09-24T15:40:19.828-06:00Friday's Top Five - Things I Did This Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello faithful readers of five,<br />
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I am a bit late in posting this, but this weekend was crazy busy. Meh, what are you going to do? </div>
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So Joanne sends an email saying "why don't we blog about things we accomplished this summer?" My immediate response was "nothing." That isn't far from the truth. Seriously. If being lazy is an accomplishment, then I get a gold star!<br />
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But I have to come up with 5 things. Most of these are a stretch to call them accomplishments, but they are something. <br />
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<strong>5) Started a new job at the current place of employment.</strong><br />
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I did a bit of a lateral move within my position. We are currently undergoing an "operation review." I have been through that twice with previous employers. The first resulted in in a buy-out of my position. The second employer laid me off. So when an opportunity came to secure a position that in its very nature is secure, regardless of changes, I jumped on the chance. I do like the job. It has a bit more routine, but I am using my brain a bit more too. In the big scheme of life, administrative work is not my passion, but sometimes you have to make sacrifices. </div>
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<strong>4) Started the medical journey of fertility treatment.</strong><br />
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Husband and I want a baby. Things aren't really happening yet. So I started the journey of pursuing fertility options. The first part is to rule out the medical issues, so this summer, I pissed in cups, drew blood, and had my vagina probed. Apparently I have something called Uterine Adenomyosis. From what I read on Dr. Google, the bigger risk is carrying a baby to term safely. I don't know what this all means, and I will find out in November when I go to my gynecologist. <br />
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<strong>3) Hung out with friends (BBQ/fire pit/one-on-one/girls night). </strong><br />
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It is increasingly hard to get together with all my friends, with kids and other life responsibilities in the way. But that said, I was able to attend some events and even hosted a girls night. Good fun all around. <br />
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<strong>2) Beaumaris Lake walks (and other fun walking adventures).</strong><br />
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I definitely wanted to be more active for the obvious health benefits. This summer, I went on walks almost every day. Most of them were to Beaumaris Lake or in my neighbourhood, accompanied by my husband. We also explored different walking trails in the River Valley and at Hawrelak Park that we have never walked before. Sundays we have a new habit of going for a walk after Church, time permitting.<br />
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<strong>1) I made a major decision regarding my weight-loss journey.</strong> <br />
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I am going to save this for a separate blog, but I made a decision about the journey I am on. I had lengthy discussions with my husband, did some research, and weighed the pros and cons carefully. I am satisfied and content with my choice. I recognized that at some point, the training wheels have to come off. Again, I will go into more detail in a later blog (hopefully this week?). But know that just getting to the point of making a decision, recognizing how far I have come, and realizing how much I have learned, was eye-opening for me. The rewards are already happening. <br />
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So that's it for me. Leave in the comments what you have accomplished (or link to your own blog post if you wish!). <br />
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And hop over to the following blogs to see what my friends have accomplished:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/2013/09/fridays-top-five-things-i-did-this.html" target="_blank">Joanne: A Warm Cup of Jo</a></li>
<li><a href="http://broodingwoman.blogspot.ca/2013/09/fridays-top-five-things-i-did-this.html" target="_blank">Karen: The Brooding Woman</a></li>
<li><a href="http://apieceofapple.blogspot.ca/2013/09/fridays-top-five-things-i-did-this.html" target="_blank">Bronwyn: A Piece of Apple</a></li>
</ul>
Dani.Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-37025704498346591502013-09-10T10:00:00.004-06:002013-09-10T11:11:26.749-06:00Friday's Top Five - Songs of Summer 2013Hello faithful readers of five!<br />
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It's been a while since I have blogged. Took a bit of a summer break (because admitting I was lazy is simply not going to happen). But it is time to dust-off the cobwebs and get back into the swing of things. <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/2013/09/fridays-top-five-songs-of-summer-2013.html" target="_blank">Joanne</a> and <a href="http://broodingwoman.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Karen</a> are participating in this weeks (which should have been posted on Friday the 6th) Friday's Top Five: Songs of Summer 2013. <br />
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My list is definitely the weakest of the three. They both (especially Karen) posted meaningful songs that speak to their lives. By comparison, mine is pretty lame. That is partly to do with the fact that I have Sirius Sattelite Radio in the car, so I haven't really made a point to listen to anything...you know...modern. Also, to be honest, I haven't really listened to a lot of music, period. And life is pretty ok right now. I have issues, but is there a song out there that speaks to dealing with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adenomyosis" target="_blank">uterine adenomyosis</a>? Probably not. <br />
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But there are songs that, when I hear them, might make me think of Summer 2013. So here is my fluffy list. Add your songs of summer in the comments!<br />
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<strong>5) Cups - Anna Kendrick</strong> <em>(Original Song by Pitch Perfect)</em><br />
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This is a fun little song I discovered by accident but quite enjoy. The video makes the song. <br />
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<strong>4) Give Your Heart A Break - Demi Lovato</strong><br />
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Another Nickleodean star turned musician, but perhaps not as famous as the Miley "twerk" Cyrus, I actually don't mind her music. It's catchy. Although she did have a summer hit with her song Heart Attack, this new-to-me song was in my head all summer. I heard it quite a bit at the Mandalay Bay pool in Las Vegas too. <br />
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<strong>3) Smooth Criminal - Michael Jackson</strong><br />
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I saw Cirque Du Soleil's "ONE" at Mandalay Bay with my husband. This was easily one of the best shows I have ever seen, Vegas or otherwise. This tribute to Michael Jackson reminded me how much I actually like his music. We bought some of his CD's and played it frequently in our car on local road trips. This song is just one of many to choose from. (The below is a small clip from the show)<br />
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<strong>2) Roar - Katy Perry</strong><br />
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This came out late in the summer, and I love the message. I often felt this way to be honest, even amongst my friends and family. But I have gained a voice (I think blogging, and counselling through the Weight Wise Clinic, has helped my confidence). This song resonates with me. It is also my new unofficial weightloss motivation song!<br />
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<strong>1) Today is Your Day (Why Not?) - Shania Twain</strong><br />
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This is another artist I saw in Las Vegas. It was an awesome concert and left me with more fond memories. This particular song I had never heard before. When I heard it in Vegas, I loved it. I also love the positive message. I have spent all summer seeking positivity in my daily life. <br />
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Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-31367641561668125382013-06-18T15:22:00.001-06:002013-06-18T15:23:38.295-06:00I saw a pelican and did not take a picture. Why that matters. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFI7G_kZuxnxQs6Q17Hw9N36tCu2rlsn1GFiLjcO34g0brCkwvxDHddMnqLj52Op4w_qtnpokg1QSL5bROZ77s-B36_6D6oK0EFzxhK8ndwcQ6py25Drubc1Mnigxq4wbpqmyQVuQpc_Y/s1600/pelican.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFI7G_kZuxnxQs6Q17Hw9N36tCu2rlsn1GFiLjcO34g0brCkwvxDHddMnqLj52Op4w_qtnpokg1QSL5bROZ77s-B36_6D6oK0EFzxhK8ndwcQ6py25Drubc1Mnigxq4wbpqmyQVuQpc_Y/s320/pelican.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hello faithful readers of five, <br />
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Yesterday, while out for a walk at Beaumaris Lake, I saw a pelican. Yes, a pelican. The jowly member of the avian species. But I didn't take a picture of this exciting moment. That matters. <br />
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Rewind a few months - ever since I got my iPhone in November, I have become one of <em>them.</em> You know, the person who takes pictures of everything. I have joined the hoards of people who feel the need to capture everything: kids, animals, food, the fart in the wind. <br />
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Taking pictures of <em>amazing things</em> isn't necessarily a problem. But there are three problems I see with taking pictures of <em>every amazing thing</em>.<br />
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<strong>1) Not everything is awesome. In fact, we've started to dilute what awesome really means.</strong><br />
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There is a difference between taking a picture of a gourmet meal served by the finest chef at the finest restaurant, and taking a picture of your taco from the food court. <br />
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That breakfast in Vegas that was the bomb? The world sees a plate of eggs and a bowl of fruit. <br />
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The kid taking their first steps? Awesome. The kid sitting on the potty? Not so much. <br />
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The scene of a beautiful waterfall in the mountains? That's cool. The pic of the dead bug on your windshield? Mmm-kay then.<br />
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<strong>2) We are becoming rude company.</strong><br />
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When was the last time you visited with friends and didn't take a picture? When was the last time you had dinner with company at a restaurant and you didn't take a pic of your wasabi-roll? Of course, if it was just the pic you were taking, that would be one thing. But nope, we have to instantly facebook/tweet/whatever it. <br />
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Don't mind the other person sitting there. They are not as important as letting your virtual pals knowing you are having a great evening.<br />
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<strong>3) In trying to capture the memory, we are missing out on the experience of what is around us. Experiences become meaningless.</strong><br />
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When was the last time you just watched the sunset without whipping out your camera? When was the last time you simply enjoyed your dinner, without snapping a shot? When was the last time you travelled somewhere and just took one picture of the skyscraper, and not 10 pictures? Or none at all? <br />
When was the last time you watched your child hit a milestone without sharing it with the world? When was the last time you viewed something not through your camera viewer? <br />
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<strong>When was the last time you just lived the experience, and not captured the experience? When was the last time you lived in the moment?</strong><br />
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I am guilty of all the above. I can't remember the last time I went anywhere and didn't have at least 10 pictures to account for the moment.<br />
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Last night, I had to leave my camera behind because I didn't have a pocket. I saw an amazing thing. I shared that moment with my husband. It was awesome. It was private. It was an experience. <br />
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I think we all need to find our pelican moment. <br />
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<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-68944600629505183482013-05-03T14:52:00.002-06:002013-05-03T14:55:21.043-06:00Friday's Top Five - Pinterest Ideas I'd like to try<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am not crafty. I suck. I can't even make a macaroni-owl without it looking like it flew on the short-bus. I'm also sort of lazy and imperialist in my view of crafty things...why make when I can buy? I am also not addicted to Pinterest like 3/4 of my female friends. <br />
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Joane: "let's do a blog about five Pinterest items we would like to try." <br />
Me: "Sure."<br />
Me to self: "Crap, I guess that means I should probably look at Pinterest and see what my hypothetical crafty-self would hypothetically like to do."<br />
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2 hours later....<br />
Me to self: "Are these women in la-la land? I call bullshit that anything pinned here is possible."<br />
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3 hours later...<br />
Me to self: "Oooh, that's totally neat."<br />
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4 hours later...<br />
Me to self: "Oh, I can do that. I can SO do that!"<br />
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So without further ado, here are the five things I'd like to try...because I can totally do this and my project will look exactly the same, <em>right</em>?<br />
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<strong>5) Summer Workout Lists</strong><br />
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Oh, I am so going to Jane Fonda my ass this summer. Just you wait and see. I don't really know what an oblique twist is. Is that like some type of cocktail? Workout while drinking? Don't mind if I do...<br />
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<strong>4) Boozy Popsicle thingy</strong><br />
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Margarita Popsicles? WIN! Never mind the fact that I can't even cut a lime to look like that, or that I don't technically own any popsicle sticks. Minor details. <br />
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<strong>2) Individual homemade Jell-o fruit snacks</strong><br />
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These little bastards are pricey, so I would save us money too! And they will look EXACTLY LIKE THAT. <br />
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<strong>2) Nifty patio lanterns and planters</strong><br />
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<br />
Isn't that romantic and beautiful? I mean, what could possibly go wrong with a candle-lit lantern in my <strike>ghetto</strike> neighbourhood? And of course, since Edmonton is a summer climate, I can enjoy this for a long time. And it doesn't appear that this project will attract moths and mosquito's like my light porch does. I am so doing this. <br />
<br />
<strong>1) Hair styles.</strong><br />
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<br />
Although I have absolutely no hair talent, my hair right now is thin, frizzy and grey. There is no way I can fix this right? Challenge accepted! If I follow the handy step-by-step tips, I can totally look like the above. <br />
<br />
So mosey over to <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/2013/05/fridays-top-five-pinterest-ideas-id.html" target="_blank">Joanne's blog to check out what she is is going to try</a>. <strike>If </strike>When I do the above, I will let you know the results! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-15147221647017594702013-04-19T13:57:00.001-06:002013-04-19T13:57:28.668-06:00Friday's Top Five: Favourite Old-Country Artists<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Hey faithful readers of five, <br />
<br />
Let's face it. It's been a shit week. Boston. Texas. I've got nothing to say that hasn't been said a thousand times before. I'm sad. I'm depressed at the state of the world right now. I need hope. I need comfort. <br />
<br />
When I was young, when things (or life) was shit, I would go to my room, shut the door, turn on an old country radio station, and listen to the sweet comforts of old-school country music. Country music, the music that speaks of life. The music that speaks <em>to </em>life. <br />
<br />
Although this topic was planned in advance with <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/2013/04/fridays-top-five-favourite-old-country.html" target="_blank">Joanne (click to see her list),</a> it's timely that this week, when I need an escape, I once again turn to country music for comfort. Here is my list of top five favourite old-country artists...<br />
<br />
<strong>5) Kenny Rogers</strong><br />
<em>Song attached: Coward of the County</em><br />
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Kenny Rogers was a huge part of my childhood. Fast forward 30+ years, and I meet a man who is a huge fan of the guy. In fact, it was a Kenny Rogers song that made my husband realize he loved & missed me while he was on vacation. (Awww!). <br />
<br />
Funny story: at our wedding, we had put <em>She Believe in Me</em> on our must play list. The DJ entered the wrong code, and <em>Coward of the County</em> came on. We still laugh about it, and thus this song now has a place in my heart. As does Kenny. <br />
<br />
<strong>4) Willie Nelson</strong><br />
<em>Song attached: The City of New Orleans</em><br />
<em></em><br />
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I have always like Willie's free-spirt. He is a refreshing voice, and personality, in the country music genre. Joanne put this song on our road-trip CD when we first went to the US on our epic road trip along the eastern seaboard. <br />
<br />
<strong>3) Conway Twitty</strong><br />
<em>Song attached: Hello Darlin'</em><br />
<em></em><br />
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"Ladies & gentlement, Mr. Conway Twitty." Fans of <em>Family Guy</em> will get why I chose him. Conway has the second most amount of #1 top-40 hits in country music ever. Impressive.<br />
<br />
<strong>2) Nitty Gritty Dirt Band</strong><br />
<em>Song attached: Face on the Cutting Room Floor</em><br />
<em></em><br />
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The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band are probably most famous for songs like <em>Cadillac Ranch</em> and <em>Fishing in The Dark</em> (if you have ever been to a bar or wedding, you have danced to these songs, rest assured).<br />
<br />
However, they actually have an impressive body of work and fabulous songs. Back when I was in grade 5, I went to Jasper with my grandparents, aunts and uncles. My aunt had a portable radio and a NGDB cassette tape. We played the tapes over, and over, and over, and over again. We even "bathed" to this music (if you call a sponge-bath in the Pocahontas campground bathrooms "bathing"). <br />
<br />
They remain to this day one of my favourite bands of all time.<br />
<br />
<strong>1) Ronnie Milsap</strong><br />
<em>Song attached: Smoky Mountain Rain</em><br />
<em></em><br />
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I mad-love the music of Ronnie Milsap. He is easily one of my favourite country artists, period. Ronnie Milsap grew up with his grandma after his single-mother left him, not able to deal with a child who is blind. <br />
<br />
He went on to be one of the biggest and most influential country star in the 1970s & 1980s, and even enjoyed cross-over success in the pop genre. This surprised me, but he has the third-most amount of #1 top-40 hits. Who knew? <br />
<br />
My husband and I both enjoy his music. In fact, we actually have his music DVD of greatest hits currently in our car. <br />
<br />
<strong>Bonus: Honourable mention - George Strait</strong><br />
<em>Song selected: Run</em><br />
<em></em><br />
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George is my absolute favourite if I am honest. He has the most #1 top-40 hits of any country artist. Even though he could <em>technically</em> be considered old-school (given his longevity in the industry), I have chosen <em>not</em> to count him as old-school. Why? Because he's still churning out great #1 hits. Booyah!<br />
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<em>Question: which old-school country artists would fall in your top-five list? Leave comments! </em><br />
<br />
<br />
Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-28257886208795485452013-04-12T10:31:00.002-06:002013-04-12T10:36:16.796-06:00Friday's Top Five - Fitness Goals for 2013 & Beyond!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXKzDxXd_HUe_jQlbPF1RKbBucveo3g_JHZD24lJtcft-cviVZ4Y9Dv4H91wKegnjo7O2Ri0gb39rROu3SWptJQjIDJuy7ZUWwEtU5uUQUUQOPYZDntMIb_HWFSRdXjWd4lb7if9he8w/s1600/exercise+funny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXKzDxXd_HUe_jQlbPF1RKbBucveo3g_JHZD24lJtcft-cviVZ4Y9Dv4H91wKegnjo7O2Ri0gb39rROu3SWptJQjIDJuy7ZUWwEtU5uUQUUQOPYZDntMIb_HWFSRdXjWd4lb7if9he8w/s320/exercise+funny.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my truth!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Hello faithful readers of five, <br />
<br />
It's <strike>spring-time</strike> the late stages of winter up her in the hinterland. Winter has been harsh, both weather-wise, and on my ass. I have improved on creating safe spaces. I have improved on establishing food-related routines. I have started tracking regularly. I am eating better. I am doing <em>all the right things. </em>I am seeing results of those changes. However, when it comes to excercize, I am lazy. Sloths are more active than me. If there is an excuse-train running, I'm hitching a ride.<br />
<br />
It's time for me to set some fitness-related goals. I know from the experience of the last two years of being on Weight Watchers™ (plus a side-stint in the Weight Wise Clinic™) that when it comes to goal-setting, I need to be SMART:<br />
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<br />
For my fitness objectives, I asked myself these questions:<br />
<ol>
<li>What excuse do I have that would prevent me from acheiving my goal?</li>
<li>What specific, measureable, attainable, relevent and time-bound technique will I use to achieve this goal?</li>
<li>What potential barrier exists that could potentially derail my efforts?</li>
<li>What is the hidden reward (the unintendend postive consequence) that could come out of my efforts?</li>
<li>What do I ultimately hope to achieve (long-term) by setting this goal?</li>
</ol>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjruMag9Kp0d5nUk18-2Yo2-BnWYMOZSxWTaAueBa1Ilik0HFZLbub54ZDGEYUwGvMFlWMiqcr2ellqoBMqekqG1_qncKGcYOjW-O-bP0MHyEPz7ZJ6mQ9eM2mhGk6j0hywSO5AKKzyyXc/s1600/ww+dmv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjruMag9Kp0d5nUk18-2Yo2-BnWYMOZSxWTaAueBa1Ilik0HFZLbub54ZDGEYUwGvMFlWMiqcr2ellqoBMqekqG1_qncKGcYOjW-O-bP0MHyEPz7ZJ6mQ9eM2mhGk6j0hywSO5AKKzyyXc/s1600/ww+dmv.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ahem. Truth. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Here are my fitness goals for 2013 and beyond! <br />
<br />
<strong>5) Find activities that I enjoy.</strong><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaol79fcxgwnvslOfq38I-HibPkuETVOWhz_7Ad96L2rXO4fjdaJvgH8rMRmMsjr_nrG6H5piyte_jzx1rPmbr30xKNvTxmE9dIxmmtIOMWTMwRneSO7ucVCZI98V7ypDPNy2NxBHFVWw/s1600/aqua_zumba_98142755_std.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaol79fcxgwnvslOfq38I-HibPkuETVOWhz_7Ad96L2rXO4fjdaJvgH8rMRmMsjr_nrG6H5piyte_jzx1rPmbr30xKNvTxmE9dIxmmtIOMWTMwRneSO7ucVCZI98V7ypDPNy2NxBHFVWw/s320/aqua_zumba_98142755_std.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aqua-Zumba</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><strong>Excuses</strong>: activity is boring; I've hurt myself trying some activities; it's too hard.</li>
<li><strong>SMART Goal:</strong> sign-up/try-out the variety of classes offered at the YMCA/larger community.</li>
<li><strong>Potential Barrier:</strong> cost or conflicts with schedule may limit the kinds of activity I could try; the potential for actual injury by doing something more advanced than my ability.</li>
<li><strong>Hidden Reward: e</strong>njoying my activity makes it effortless; easier to plan my week around activity if I know there is <strong><em>*something*</em></strong> I can do.</li>
<li><strong>Ultimate Goal: </strong>that activity becomes exciting, enjoyable, and a regular routine of my life.</li>
</ul>
<strong>4) Track my activity accurately (& honestly reflect my effort).</strong><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8nKPP2cKaNH6xFA1qdJVxWULI6cl6FvycVWHabHM8MkwpT9M4RamhPCdTLKcEXQxFFo516GEMVz8HQ06irlYCu-YZMmATSOYx8IH9i2ncHFsOYeDTspF6wGT6J7jaGMPVxDmYwExjiY8/s1600/bodyfit-media-armband1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8nKPP2cKaNH6xFA1qdJVxWULI6cl6FvycVWHabHM8MkwpT9M4RamhPCdTLKcEXQxFFo516GEMVz8HQ06irlYCu-YZMmATSOYx8IH9i2ncHFsOYeDTspF6wGT6J7jaGMPVxDmYwExjiY8/s1600/bodyfit-media-armband1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Body Fit Media™ </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><strong>Excuses:</strong> activity doesn't make a difference anways in "the big scheme of things"; it's not worth the effort (litte reward); the little bit I do counts (it all adds up).</li>
<li><strong>SMART goal:</strong> to use my BoydFit Media™ armband to count my caloric burn, and track my activity honestly in my Weight Watchers™ tracker.</li>
<li><strong>Potential barrier:</strong> coulda fall into a trap of "eating because I <em>earned</em> it" mentality to justify bad food choices.</li>
<li><strong>Hidden reward:</strong> become a better tracker of what I consume & burn; a greater self-awareness of my choices; accelerate my weight-loss efforts.</li>
<li><strong>Ultimate goal</strong>: that tracking become second nature, like brushing my teeth or riding my bike.</li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoTHmX5ThNgUXpSnMAf3Kx6Yxv8Vw8pn2osdgcyoj8rMOBuOhC7rUZnjsxD02SFoe7BJLAox4JGDF05-JUSIpY3vdxyRR5E_mB8Hwski5u0lsqosrxBW-WNfJVKrt7tBCWqW2e_GgnYLY/s1600/ww+funny.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoTHmX5ThNgUXpSnMAf3Kx6Yxv8Vw8pn2osdgcyoj8rMOBuOhC7rUZnjsxD02SFoe7BJLAox4JGDF05-JUSIpY3vdxyRR5E_mB8Hwski5u0lsqosrxBW-WNfJVKrt7tBCWqW2e_GgnYLY/s640/ww+funny.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We've all been there. The circle of dishonesty.... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<strong>3) Plan daily/weekly/monthly/vaction-time/yearly activity...and commit to those plans.</strong><br />
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<ul>
<li><strong>Excuses:</strong> I don't have time to write everything; I can't plan for the unexpected (weather/illness..); I have to plan around other people's schedule (husband/family); activity comflicts with family time.</li>
<li><strong>SMART goal:</strong> schedule 3-4 activity times for two-weeks at a time (to coordinate around husband schedule/other events/14-day weather forcasts). Plan vacations to incorporate some activity (walking, swimming, hiking). Sign-up for a charity event that involves activity (walk for the ___).</li>
<li><strong>Potential barrier:</strong> there is never a "good time"; I use external reasons as a crutch for not doing something; I plan but don't follow through; vacations don't provide activity opportunities.</li>
<li><strong>Hidden reward:</strong> feeling of accomplishment by meeting goals; improving goal-setting techniques.</li>
<li><strong>Ultimate goal:</strong> that activity becomes a priority like other events/people.</li>
</ul>
<strong>2) Keep working hard, every day, and don't give up.</strong><br />
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<ul>
<li><strong>Excuses:</strong> I am not seeing results so why am I trying?; this is too much work; success happens to others but never to me; I am not worthy of success. </li>
<li><strong>SMART goal:</strong> create a non-food reward system for recognizing my accomplishments, goals, and milestones. </li>
<li><strong>Potential barrier:</strong> loss of motivation (especially if results don't reflect effort); my mental doesn't match my physical changes; reward system is not meaningful.</li>
<li><strong>Hidden reward:</strong> the growth in self-esteem; success in my athleticism & weightloss efforts; personal growth; new wardrobe!</li>
<li><strong>Ultimate goal:</strong> to feel successful, & have that reflect in my exterior and interior -self.</li>
</ul>
<strong>1) Don't let self-doubt be a barrier to the journey towards my authentic self. Go easy on myself when I fall, and let the process unfold. Don't put-up obstacles out of fear. Stop all-or-nothing thinking.</strong><br />
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<strong></strong><br />
<ul>
<li><strong>Excuses: </strong>I can't do this; I am not capable of doing this activity; my fear of _____ prevents me from pushing harder; I fell off the wagon, so I my as well stop being active this week.</li>
<li><strong>SMART goal: </strong>take monthly pictures showing my progress; use other ways of recording progress (such as measuring inches, clothing size, activity progression, etc...). Blog my journey, recording my emotions and progress, so I have something tangible to reflect back about.</li>
<li><strong>Potential barrier: </strong>all-or-nothing thinking.</li>
<li><strong>Hidden reward: </strong>Everything I dreamed of being comes true.</li>
<li><strong>Ultimate goal: </strong>Living the life I want to live and know I am capable of living. Being an "athlete." </li>
</ul>
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Well, I got to head out to the gym. Check <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/2013/04/fridays-top-five-fitness-goals-for-2013.html" target="_blank">Joanne's blog for her five fitness goals.</a> <br />
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xo. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzNkVJmKpThnnW8DbTWPLzaKqpt9U-0xU5NrojheXlI1HyNT9Xt784Uk9QhH111WErI_qq_VKRFekq5GRO0HOnc-FXOm2ikLMAXYz4T-A1EorsbJEwfCbEv6j7TGMmF5DzOxgveh3b78/s1600/Dani.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzNkVJmKpThnnW8DbTWPLzaKqpt9U-0xU5NrojheXlI1HyNT9Xt784Uk9QhH111WErI_qq_VKRFekq5GRO0HOnc-FXOm2ikLMAXYz4T-A1EorsbJEwfCbEv6j7TGMmF5DzOxgveh3b78/s1600/Dani.png" /></a><br />
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<br />Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-42388451261735362822013-03-29T16:14:00.000-06:002013-04-12T10:35:26.933-06:00Friday's Top Five - Baseball Themed ANYTHING<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Baseball season is upon us, and there is no better time to blog my love for this beautiful sport than now. And it's Friday, so what better way than in my semi <strike>(when-I-have-time)</strike> regular feature, the Friday Five!<br />
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This isn't the first time I have posted about baseball. If you have time, go read: <br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://divulgewithdani.blogspot.ca/2009_06_01_archive.html" target="_blank">This Used to Be My Playground</a> (June 2009) - how playing baseball reminded me how much it is to go outside and play</li>
<li><a href="http://divulgewithdani.blogspot.ca/2009/07/my-field-of-dreams-and-discovery-of-my.html" target="_blank">My Field of Dreams and the Discovery of my Love for Baseball </a>(July 2009) - how keeping stats, and local baseball, improved my love of the game</li>
<li><a href="http://divulgewithdani.blogspot.ca/2009/07/wild-species-survival-guide-obnoxious.html" target="_blank">The Wild Species Survival Guide - The Obnoxious Baseball Fan</a> (July 2009) - a handy-guide on how to spot, avoid, and deal with the obnoxious baseball fan</li>
</ul>
I present to you my top-five baseball themed anything:<br />
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<b>5. Baseball memes</b> <br />
Oh peoples of the interwebz. What would I do without you there to amuse me? Baseball memes are funny. Especially the one's that poke fun at Steve's beloved Mets.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaehsvyk53tbko8bCED4mNDbV1xeH0_nWXTqV8ry1nxn82DdYoa-jJ1qEo0LcokPh1PZCcuhdeVNjNn6t40T1lICEdB9vtiJjja6aVX34xoaW8o-Lf3LTCA_IL-JatzOntH7582MZwHf4/s1600/Met+meme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaehsvyk53tbko8bCED4mNDbV1xeH0_nWXTqV8ry1nxn82DdYoa-jJ1qEo0LcokPh1PZCcuhdeVNjNn6t40T1lICEdB9vtiJjja6aVX34xoaW8o-Lf3LTCA_IL-JatzOntH7582MZwHf4/s320/Met+meme.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's funny 'cuz it's true!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>4. Baseball movies</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9W5PGNhm39TQXIk01BLrX48OwEs5Ks8WSBXCVIN1OiyOb3_Ix_4RvfczDp02Bb0hxGLA21HMJBEbJxVzAwnQUtnaJCfM2EGb74QjdgjZQh0OHZUvX7iZK6vw8GSCkJRukoGCccXUtFY/s1600/the+sandlot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9W5PGNhm39TQXIk01BLrX48OwEs5Ks8WSBXCVIN1OiyOb3_Ix_4RvfczDp02Bb0hxGLA21HMJBEbJxVzAwnQUtnaJCfM2EGb74QjdgjZQh0OHZUvX7iZK6vw8GSCkJRukoGCccXUtFY/s200/the+sandlot.jpg" width="140" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaxp_BoYEsEVCRu_e7pwXCaJf2MCTzfaxZxXMvBV3_qfnWxf8L2JSq8XIBm4DuDHlhZ101YNownbYKKoCzq5bbv2Xtq1rBklGYy-TuR4sPW12PbwYb9qjbLea4XNRwT5pAr2MnmSM2qKQ/s1600/League_of_their_own_ver2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaxp_BoYEsEVCRu_e7pwXCaJf2MCTzfaxZxXMvBV3_qfnWxf8L2JSq8XIBm4DuDHlhZ101YNownbYKKoCzq5bbv2Xtq1rBklGYy-TuR4sPW12PbwYb9qjbLea4XNRwT5pAr2MnmSM2qKQ/s200/League_of_their_own_ver2.jpg" width="132" /></a><br />
I love sports movies. Baseball movies are great because sometimes, they don't always end with an underdog victory, like with football movies. Sometimes the underdog remains the underdog. I walk away inspired anyways. <br />
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While I have yet to watch a baseball movie I didn't like, the two that stand out the most for me are <i>A League of Their Own</i> (which deals with women in professional baseball during World War II), and <i>The Sandlot </i>(a fabulous movie that deals with kids playing baseball, narrated in a similar fashion to <i>The Wonder Years</i>)<i>.</i> I will watch these movies over and over again.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/rMHRq7yGdkA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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My favourite song by Madonna: This Used to Be My Playground</div>
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<b>3. <i>Baseball</i> (a documentary by Ken Burns)</b><br />
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Ken Burns, a prominent documentary film maker, made a <a href="http://www.pbs.org/kenburns/baseball/" target="_blank">10 "innings" Baseball documentary</a>, covering every decade of baseball. He seamlessly weaved the story of baseball in the context of what was going on in America (and the world). He featured prominent (and lesser-known) players, fields and actions that would impact the game forever. This documentary changed the way I view baseball, and it gave me a profound appreciation for just how important baseball is the world.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDW6dkecfZA1CanDWYaca6h3fWo8zsdMrbyHtAK3ihJrYCB8n6iyurpWZhOnM4TbkXT5CjSjA1nDXrYB-j0BQDtGsgoT_PRAMeoLn0igKeaIvA40aYwECIp8tRvvzHsACBvpAcV72JBlo/s1600/ken+made+me+fall+in+love+with+baseball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDW6dkecfZA1CanDWYaca6h3fWo8zsdMrbyHtAK3ihJrYCB8n6iyurpWZhOnM4TbkXT5CjSjA1nDXrYB-j0BQDtGsgoT_PRAMeoLn0igKeaIvA40aYwECIp8tRvvzHsACBvpAcV72JBlo/s320/ken+made+me+fall+in+love+with+baseball.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Truth.</td></tr>
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<b>2. Vintage baseball pictures</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCazLWtItN8FK-WAuXEa_IaLnsk90w2q59oBieS5wVH-JB82zA3ZLSvCP6dhgvipbj36zbzDrOS-we9LU-126UzJtCiBgE5qeJoyT_c3STtg0XvxJHxXGv13wCjnvtnNop3y02ajxfXRA/s1600/babe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCazLWtItN8FK-WAuXEa_IaLnsk90w2q59oBieS5wVH-JB82zA3ZLSvCP6dhgvipbj36zbzDrOS-we9LU-126UzJtCiBgE5qeJoyT_c3STtg0XvxJHxXGv13wCjnvtnNop3y02ajxfXRA/s320/babe.jpg" width="249" /></a></div>
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Baseball is not just men in uniforms playing in the dirt. Baseball is not just an escape from the problems of the world; it is a reflection of the world. Vintage photographs not only conjure up romantic nostalgia. They also, when chronologically placed, reflect real issues in the world.Overcoming adversity in the face of illness, World War II, gender and racial barriers being broken...it's all there. Some issues will always remain (women in professional baseball), but baseball led the way when it came to facing these issues --- whether it wanted to or not.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0hz5Qxs2DAIBFeHa0-QcCHL-7aEwpIkKUWyD2Vy4VScPZcYI56fCH-BJ8HpHMayYFl7hj3f5g1zCjm0kTMybXq5-3PMJ38dsoRoAsb9L4yu8p8oRU-2UbC08AEzf_1I5vYzQzt1BENWI/s1600/1939_lou_gehrig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0hz5Qxs2DAIBFeHa0-QcCHL-7aEwpIkKUWyD2Vy4VScPZcYI56fCH-BJ8HpHMayYFl7hj3f5g1zCjm0kTMybXq5-3PMJ38dsoRoAsb9L4yu8p8oRU-2UbC08AEzf_1I5vYzQzt1BENWI/s320/1939_lou_gehrig.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lou Gehrig's famous retirement speech after being diagnosed with ALS</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM7iUYwnPCTV_vjiQfPRWxFK_iRiVPv48MkEK5ie1jn_MZGWBzM9gzUg6aCa8xsAFmFA-Z0vRfu6l8KEXsET27fqNFQOYwZt-pHrdJurKae0oO8Jolh01fgHO4hPP_HYqeJ_ckKEf-lSM/s1600/women's+baseball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM7iUYwnPCTV_vjiQfPRWxFK_iRiVPv48MkEK5ie1jn_MZGWBzM9gzUg6aCa8xsAFmFA-Z0vRfu6l8KEXsET27fqNFQOYwZt-pHrdJurKae0oO8Jolh01fgHO4hPP_HYqeJ_ckKEf-lSM/s320/women's+baseball.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Women served in professional baseball during WWII</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8xcD6iwdziHYTtdm6v18tpH5MtxzpcK8STZm_0xqyEoeb98yoSgN1vSZ-7m4o7q_fg1aD7SFRHK_ciNyenZND06vOlCF5dPaNOsQc2_r0m3yhKF_kuES7FH-IgV4e8X9msXw-Ycn9EYg/s1600/JR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8xcD6iwdziHYTtdm6v18tpH5MtxzpcK8STZm_0xqyEoeb98yoSgN1vSZ-7m4o7q_fg1aD7SFRHK_ciNyenZND06vOlCF5dPaNOsQc2_r0m3yhKF_kuES7FH-IgV4e8X9msXw-Ycn9EYg/s1600/JR.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jackie Robinson broke racial and colour barriers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwaiIrM-LikH1UZQUKNKvE8Dmf7f9Objbgt0WBeYbFdRrbBXWRI7xHGCX7cyafG6yTv2c-uBB8ICUwPxTuESJt9c4i2NsOQsKwu-qjxiIs8n5n8A0nmpvKiK46wQAjio-VCzSSOV7gvc/s1600/joe-dimaggio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwaiIrM-LikH1UZQUKNKvE8Dmf7f9Objbgt0WBeYbFdRrbBXWRI7xHGCX7cyafG6yTv2c-uBB8ICUwPxTuESJt9c4i2NsOQsKwu-qjxiIs8n5n8A0nmpvKiK46wQAjio-VCzSSOV7gvc/s320/joe-dimaggio.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joltin' Joe DiMaggio was just awesome. Plus he served in WW2. But I put this here because he was awesome!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<b> </b><i>Center Field</i> by John Fogarty. This song was inducted into the Baseball HOF.</div>
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<b>1. Baseball games (MLB, Local, Little League, Beer League, amongst friends) </b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEO7ZpnqzpfVk7xMeZ1RsaP_sRArh9P6Z5esyj08z25x6-Co_UdQ57T3WwRJnwk0bsk4XkKa_7oBw2Q67gD14aTrv-pADMEJh4H7Hcp7ICsIBFsFhn7XTBUpi2Rl5T-vdGCk7Y8uO7hyphenhypheno/s1600/baseball-field1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEO7ZpnqzpfVk7xMeZ1RsaP_sRArh9P6Z5esyj08z25x6-Co_UdQ57T3WwRJnwk0bsk4XkKa_7oBw2Q67gD14aTrv-pADMEJh4H7Hcp7ICsIBFsFhn7XTBUpi2Rl5T-vdGCk7Y8uO7hyphenhypheno/s400/baseball-field1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
There is something about attending baseball games, at any level, that is enjoyable. I've attended a New York Yankees game in New York, numerous games at John Ducey Park in Edmonton (Trappers, Edmonton Capitals, whatever the next team, if any, will be). I've watched kids play in little-league with their full hearts. I've watched my dad play in a community beer-league team, just for fun. I've gone to the park simply to play with my friends.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBId-Sb3tC0wbSAE3rcE-NiMSbAMPrsgt7gdehhe3OwJWoiOG1pB1nUL7BlfzKnW9QR578-7NKq6V-AVp1gcBnyyOoQ6fzxIiIC6JFO6E4vGO1jsss59jHkh7pGKPkrok_mX12DAy57eE/s1600/oil8733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBId-Sb3tC0wbSAE3rcE-NiMSbAMPrsgt7gdehhe3OwJWoiOG1pB1nUL7BlfzKnW9QR578-7NKq6V-AVp1gcBnyyOoQ6fzxIiIC6JFO6E4vGO1jsss59jHkh7pGKPkrok_mX12DAy57eE/s320/oil8733.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John Ducey Park (a.k.a. Telus Field) in Edmonton</td></tr>
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Each time has been nothing but enjoyable. Baseball, even at the MLB level, is one of the cheapest forms of entertainment out there. For less than $20.00 at the semi-professional local level in Edmonton, you can get a ticket, a hot dog, a beer, a pop, and a 50/50 ticket. You sit in the lazy summer sun. You cheer and chat with the people around you. You heckle when heckling is needed. If you really want to get involved, you keep stats. If you don't, you just sit there and watch. It's peaceful and engaging.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-rSZo_SNoqAcvpzrF1uzxD7WJVn6jgDXbpYzLG0SQ0FNDgFgApsmaL9PRGEc-E8nuZ3jiRarWd3WuRSIezGeyxz1yPsnE5b1AmSzXCQxZwYbjppDpYWjr5koSklu-oqfJ8a32NHcW8k/s1600/kids+playing+baseball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-rSZo_SNoqAcvpzrF1uzxD7WJVn6jgDXbpYzLG0SQ0FNDgFgApsmaL9PRGEc-E8nuZ3jiRarWd3WuRSIezGeyxz1yPsnE5b1AmSzXCQxZwYbjppDpYWjr5koSklu-oqfJ8a32NHcW8k/s320/kids+playing+baseball.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how I plan on funding my retirement. Baby boo better have a good arm.</td></tr>
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And for free, go out and watch a game locally (in your community-league). It's a great sport for kids. It's great for wanna-be kids. It's a great game to play if you just want to go out doors on a lazy summer day.<br />
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A great song by Kenny Rogers</div>
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I can't wait for the new season, or summer for that matter. Go check out <a href="http://a-warm-cup-of-jo.blogspot.ca/2013/03/fridays-top-five-baseball-themed.html" target="_blank">Joanne's awesome list</a> at A Warm Cup of Jo, and I think her husband <a href="http://wayward-yankee.livejournal.com/" target="_blank">Steve</a> from Wayward Yankee will contribute as well! </div>
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Play Ball! </div>
Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6007435143293777068.post-49859701678503713282013-02-27T09:19:00.000-07:002013-02-27T09:28:59.892-07:00Random Wednesday Blog: Squirrel!Hi faithful readers of five!<br />
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Just though I would toss out some random stuff today, as my brain cannot seem to formulate a complete blog post. Such is the way of the squirrel. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHy5pUvERMwvFsJ9LCby0HKK5JJJbZNs-2h6emVkl4A7s8bsI3PZ2eOgQR1mIuGzJrcrHBPiv52bnc-HXVSUmaUZqhMiA4NKUgYU9zF0IFoGpfKnGD8TxH2ruCvcBasIfzudpO1vD4Eok/s1600/funny-squirrel-Boromir-brace-yourselves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHy5pUvERMwvFsJ9LCby0HKK5JJJbZNs-2h6emVkl4A7s8bsI3PZ2eOgQR1mIuGzJrcrHBPiv52bnc-HXVSUmaUZqhMiA4NKUgYU9zF0IFoGpfKnGD8TxH2ruCvcBasIfzudpO1vD4Eok/s320/funny-squirrel-Boromir-brace-yourselves.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brace yourself for a silly blog post. </td></tr>
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1) Pope Benedict XVI gave his last general audience today. If the thought of him leaving makes you sad, then you can drink your sorrows away with Pope Beer!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoDQkfWHyjzVzNzrfuVm5f5Lqn-dJ9SwVbdauhwx2uS5tFeZuFYNIuUkcmmGWJFABVojkfRhFbyEDu6C1FsVazwl7z8SXvpqlu8xSrrHnRqLHSdjXfugsQ8LwMbHhxU_R90VL9DmiAyzM/s1600/pope_beer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoDQkfWHyjzVzNzrfuVm5f5Lqn-dJ9SwVbdauhwx2uS5tFeZuFYNIuUkcmmGWJFABVojkfRhFbyEDu6C1FsVazwl7z8SXvpqlu8xSrrHnRqLHSdjXfugsQ8LwMbHhxU_R90VL9DmiAyzM/s320/pope_beer.jpg" width="269" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warning: consumers of this product may start seeing apparitions of Mary. <br />
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2) The odds of <a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/world/2013/02/11/bono_for_pope_bookmakers_offer_odds_on_papal_contenders.html" target="_blank">U2's Bono being elected pope are 1000/1</a>. I'd put my money on squirrel pope personally. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX7ae23vM_YLYl7KPEJOMVJUXyEEILc6n9pz6F2YghwMI5SymVj3A1zG-eKrYxQyt02p_8C4RnoCgwL5UQIknGEC2Bebox5LlSdjo0b2n_sdc34NZuc5j3O4TdYnRQ6DCmeNvqBchXU34/s1600/13363977_89b6b85a3f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX7ae23vM_YLYl7KPEJOMVJUXyEEILc6n9pz6F2YghwMI5SymVj3A1zG-eKrYxQyt02p_8C4RnoCgwL5UQIknGEC2Bebox5LlSdjo0b2n_sdc34NZuc5j3O4TdYnRQ6DCmeNvqBchXU34/s320/13363977_89b6b85a3f.jpg" width="162" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pope Squirrelus XVIII</td></tr>
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3) Week two of my social media Lent fast, and I'm starting to feel like I'm stranded in the desert. The temptation to give up is strong.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVylYsUbdk7ALtyj9yVyGmYBearC2_H0DvdCibKcdu2oUBxMydxx9mbcCkv0zEDfFCzX2laxELyX7V3XOmn6pQRNqnYVijBuIDbV5T622kHL2kB7T5xKUp63d_nvyHcSzseKCyb1ZXR8/s1600/Funny+Squirrels+pictures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVylYsUbdk7ALtyj9yVyGmYBearC2_H0DvdCibKcdu2oUBxMydxx9mbcCkv0zEDfFCzX2laxELyX7V3XOmn6pQRNqnYVijBuIDbV5T622kHL2kB7T5xKUp63d_nvyHcSzseKCyb1ZXR8/s320/Funny+Squirrels+pictures.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tempt me not Lucifer Squirrel!</td></tr>
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4) But alas, I will persevere...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA8KB3vxLeTjVTQfTXp_s0IDIuL2xRGR2x9KDve7Am_OaA2R_LoYscOQhi3_F1ERgduqOnhmEvb1ENx5-jqhqjqg080SDHBslaXj-7BRFnUnjsxe_iqxxuwKB8hlI-vizTeC8avqKwa4I/s1600/funny_squirrel_is_being_dramatic-239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA8KB3vxLeTjVTQfTXp_s0IDIuL2xRGR2x9KDve7Am_OaA2R_LoYscOQhi3_F1ERgduqOnhmEvb1ENx5-jqhqjqg080SDHBslaXj-7BRFnUnjsxe_iqxxuwKB8hlI-vizTeC8avqKwa4I/s320/funny_squirrel_is_being_dramatic-239.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Sigh.</td></tr>
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5) To be honest, February has been filled with the meh's. Sigh. I want winter to be over. I am trying to cheer myself up. Just yesterday, I did an epic air-guitar solo to Phil Collin's <em><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkADj0TPrJA" target="_blank">Something in the Air Tonight</a>. </em><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj9vxGP1l-Ff6_dfWlqKXguBMqR8ZfTheUSwAtaKJO_Xh-sKSzda8EIOpzeOe7NFoxdmLu46R7KTTkzBhfII9PumeiUemXPuu3ufBVfpW9X3yqZkezUokZ1fbgfqUcVdC_kriCG9ZrVaw/s1600/7261770780_b749ec1aef_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj9vxGP1l-Ff6_dfWlqKXguBMqR8ZfTheUSwAtaKJO_Xh-sKSzda8EIOpzeOe7NFoxdmLu46R7KTTkzBhfII9PumeiUemXPuu3ufBVfpW9X3yqZkezUokZ1fbgfqUcVdC_kriCG9ZrVaw/s320/7261770780_b749ec1aef_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But were you as good as Phil Squirrlen's? <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkR5e2AbwoBcfR01Cip4KqOU0dMUsxrpT2HGhv2TeCXgZu5FvTisq2mUQBr5GJul5RKqOmGJP-eU-j-VdnrB65cMz3nxi0uiLAcdoM62s9pUiHJn26bIWOoRGIWc-7WeHzfqmm_PH3HCI/s1600/pc-good.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkR5e2AbwoBcfR01Cip4KqOU0dMUsxrpT2HGhv2TeCXgZu5FvTisq2mUQBr5GJul5RKqOmGJP-eU-j-VdnrB65cMz3nxi0uiLAcdoM62s9pUiHJn26bIWOoRGIWc-7WeHzfqmm_PH3HCI/s320/pc-good.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But I swear it was an epic air guitar set!</td></tr>
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6) So, wearing a pink t-shirt will stop bullying you say? Hmm. Interesting. While I get why things like these can help spread the message, let's stop and ask:<br />
<ul>
<li>Am I, the pink t-shirt wearer, a bully myself? </li>
<li>Does wearing a t-shirt make the victim feel better about themselves, knowing that tomorrow, the pink t-shirts will be stained with bullshit brown, as bullies resume their bullying, and sheeple resume their silence?</li>
<li>Does standing up for a certain group of people to defend them or promote their rights (sexual orientation, race, gender, political ideology, religious (or lack there of) belief) while spreading hatred against others (sexual orientation, race, gender, political ideology, religious (or lack there of) belief) make you a warrior or a bully? </li>
<li>Is this just another <a href="http://divulgewithdani.blogspot.ca/2013/01/what-really-grinds-my-gears-wednesday.html" target="_blank">hashtag campaign</a>? (Click the hyperlink to read my thoughts on those).</li>
</ul>
I don't know if a t-shirt will really have a lasting change beyond the hyper-attention to the day. Do we we need to wear a t-shirt to be respectful of others? Can't that just happen in your everyday life, regardless of what t-shirt you wear? <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WkRuRB2YRPf7s8O3Zu5lFKfg-7ThC9BFDPJ2B27H1jFw76jYt1dQ-imGXGAZj5UO4NDb8HlI1GhblREClubkjZb0PE2VWzGdojdmq-V2Uh2RxDqlBgOVdmbZVwStHLDKIhonXxmgtx0/s1600/soldier_squirrel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WkRuRB2YRPf7s8O3Zu5lFKfg-7ThC9BFDPJ2B27H1jFw76jYt1dQ-imGXGAZj5UO4NDb8HlI1GhblREClubkjZb0PE2VWzGdojdmq-V2Uh2RxDqlBgOVdmbZVwStHLDKIhonXxmgtx0/s320/soldier_squirrel.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soldier squirrel knows how to stop bullies.<br />
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Well that's it for today. Until later...oooh..shiny thing! Squirrel! Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15391671462323209856noreply@blogger.com0