January is not a good time for 68-year-old Vancouver resident Kristen Ramsden.  Until recently, Ramsden worked at Vancouver Coastal Health and in an assisted living facility. Now, alone for most of the day with her husband at work and her two kids living out of town, she's the one seeking support — especially at this time of year.  "I spend a lot of time alone," Ramsden said. "I do notice that I'm missing the sun, I'm missing... [read more]

Research has shown that about half of all adults make New Year’s resolutions. However, fewer than 10% manage to keep them for more than a few months. As a professor of behavioral addiction, I know how easy people can fall into bad habits and why on trying to give up those habits it is easy to relapse. Resolutions usually come in the form of lifestyle changes and changing behavior that has become routine and habitual (even if they are not problematic) can be hard to do. The most... [read more]

Another year has come to an end, and another has just begun. So, now that the new year is here, what resolutions are you going to make? Making New Year's resolutions is a time-honored tradition all around the world. We all hope for a better future--especially when the year we're leaving behind has been a tough one. According to research on the topic, about 60 percent of us admit that we make New Year's resolutions but only about 8 percent of us are... [read more]

A simple home decor idea for your living room is to replace your throw pillows. Throw pillows are an easy way to accessorize and brighten a room, whether you buy them or make your own. Homeowners should throw out their older throw pillows and replace them with bright, fuller pillows-or just buy crisp new pillow covers. "Mix and match colors and textures and blend different groupings. But more is not better. "There can be too many pillows, so make sure you don't go... [read more]

Living in a large home is great for some families, but for others the cost and energy required to maintain them is burdensome. That’s why 60 percent of people living in homes over 2,000 square feet in size say they’d rather move to a smaller home next time according to a sruvey last year from Trulia. Moving into a smaller house can be a great move (pun intended) financially and mentally. After all, less square footage means lower utility bills and less space for clutter to... [read more]

My college English professor was a hard grader. One February day I received a B-minus on a research paper. In hopes of  bettering my grade, I sent her a Valentine’s Day card with the inscription: “BE MINE.” The following day, I  received a valentine from the teacher. It read: “Thank you, but it’s still BE MINE-US.”                                    ... [read more]

1. Run your finances like a business. You should treat your budget like a business, because in the  business of life, the bottom line matters. Many of the same principles business owners use can be applied to your personal life: prioritize your spending, assess your profits and losses, and don't lose sight of the big picture, like saving for retirement or getting out of debt.  2. Make saving part of your lifestyle. Saving money doesn't always... [read more]

For 40 years, two friends lived on adjoining farms, separated by a wide creek. One day the friends began to fight over a petty thing and their long friendship fell apart. The misunderstanding grew into bitter words and finally, silence. Weeks later there was a knock on John's door. He opened it to find a man with a carpenter's toolbox. "I'm looking for a bit of work," said the carpenter. "I have a job for you," said John. "Look across the creek at that... [read more]

It’s a brand-new decade and there’s a good chance you're reflecting on your choices over the past 10 years. Maybe you're patting yourself on the back for taking that job across the country. Perhaps you wish you could undo that three-year relationship that sucked the life out of you. Or maybe—just maybe—you're surveying your home, and you have the sudden urge to get rid of everything in it. After all, as we head into 2020, now is the perfect time... [read more]

Happy January, the traditional first month of the year! But how did January get to be the first month of the year? Consider that until the 1700s, calendars were not always as we see them today. January 1 became the first day of the new year when Julius Caesar reorganized the Roman calendar and made it solar rather than lunar In the year 45 B.C.E. he moved the beginning of the year to January 1. When the Gregorian calendar—which most of the world uses today—was introduced in... [read more]

The success of any team (not to mention your own family!) depends on the positive attitudes of the members and the leader. Demonstrate—and reinforce—these important personal guidelines: · Ego control. Remember, be committed to the goals of the team, not your own ambitions. Can you and the rest of your team put the group’s priorities first? · Admitting mistakes. Be willing to honestly concede errors so the team can move... [read more]

The next time your small child throws a temper tantrum, try giving a hug instead of a lecture. You might be surprised at how effective a hug can be in quieting a child in the midst of a meltdown. Hugs can defuse a child’s hurt or anger, making it easier for him or her to listen to what you have to say. Once calm, your child can take part in a larger discussion about the problem and his or her behavior. Children do better when they feel secure and loved, no matter what. [read more]

Playing action-packed video games may make people more violent, but do calm, peaceful games bring on a mood of relaxed serenity?  Maybe so, according to experiments conducted by researchers at Ohio State University. First, they had to find a relaxing video game. They settled on Endless Ocean, which simulates scuba diving and gentle underwater exploration. Then they took a group of 150 college students and randomly assigned them to play either a violent game like Resident Evil 4, a... [read more]

I don’t know what it is, doc,” the young man said. “I just don’t feel good.” The doctor examined him and ran some tests. Then she talked to her nurse and came into the examination room with three bottles of different-colored pills. “OK,” the doctor said. “I want you to take one blue pill with a large glass of water every two hours. I want you to take a green pill with a large glass of water every three hours. And then take one of the... [read more]

  Save yourself this Christmas If the festive season usually leaves you out of pocket and feeling like you spent more time and money battling the crowds than relaxing with friends and loved ones, why not simplify things this year?  Here are some quick and easy tips to help you enjoy the holiday season without breaking the bank. 1. Have a pre-Christmas clean up There's still time to bag some extra cash to boost your festive finances. Spend a few hours clearing out... [read more]

If you haven’t done all of your holiday gift shopping yet, then here are some ideas for inexpensive gifts with staying power long after the holidays are over.     Magazine subscriptions. Yes, made of paper—not electrons. People still enjoy flipping pages, and magazines make great gifts that keep on giving all year long.   Food items. Drop by a World Market or other exotic foods store and put together a selection of interesting chocolates or unusual... [read more]

'Tis the season to be jolly! Yet for many people, the holidays can also be synonymous with stress. One way to make sure you experience the warmth of the season is to slow down and remember to acknowledge all the things and people in your life that make you feel grateful. What is gratitude? Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what you receive, whether tangible or intangible. With gratitude, you acknowledge the goodness in your life. And because, in the process, you recognize that the... [read more]

1. The wind chill factor is a measure of heat loss from exposed skin. 2. If it gets cold enough, ice crystals can form and snow can fall from clear skies. 3. All snowflakes have 6 sides. 4. A whiteout is also called a snow squall. It occurs when a cloud touches the ground. 5. Hot water freezes faster than cold water. 6. The "winter blues" were first diagnosed in 1984. And have recently been named seasonal affective disorder or S.A.D.... [read more]

Hungry for a quick snack? Nuts are tasty, convenient, and healthy. Their fiber and unsaturated fats can help lower LDL (“bad cholesterol”) levels, and contain omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, both good for the heart. Just choose wisely. Although all nuts have health benefits, they’re best eaten raw or dry-roasted, not covered with chocolate, salt, or sugar. Here’s the breakdown on some of the most popular nuts (roasted, serving size 1 ounce): • Pistachios:... [read more]

Throwing a party is often a matter of the right combination of providing your guests relaxation and enough structure that they are able to enjoy themselves. A savvy host knows there are many ways to do this. Here are a few tips for throwing a winning party:        ¨ Set the tone. If you really want everyone to relax and have fun make sure that you are completely organized. ¨ Whatever you’re going to serve, have it ready, and know how... [read more]

If you are like most people, you feel cold every now and then during the winter. What you may not know is that just being cold can make you very sick. Older adults can lose body heat fast faster than when they were young. Changes in your body that come with aging can make it harder for you to be aware of getting cold. A big chill can turn into a dangerous problem before an older person even knows what's happening. Doctors call this serious problem hypothermia. What Is... [read more]

Registration for the City’s Driveway Windrow Snow Clearing Program is open until 9 p.m. on November 8 for residents 65 years and over and people with physical disabilities. The program provides assistance to eligible applicants by clearing a space in the windrow (about three meters or 10 feet wide) after snow plowing operations have ended. The program runs from December 2, 2019 to March 27, 2020. Pick up and submit applications at your local community center, the Mississauga... [read more]

When people share their goals with you, do you help them launch their dreams—or try to bring them back to Earth? In his book The Man Who Listens to Horses (Ballantine), famed horse trainer Monty Roberts tells about the time one of his teachers in high school assigned a paper called “My Goals in Life.” The teacher, Mr. Fowler, was interested only in practical goals—not fantasies about going to Hollywood to become a movie star, and the like. But young Monty had a... [read more]

With winter upon us, many of you probably already have your furnace running. If you haven’t turned it on yet, or haven’t done the maintenance yet, here are some quick tips. 1. Turn off the gas and electricity to the furnace. 2. Vacuum the furnace interior everywhere you can reach. 3. Change the air filter. 4. Check the fan belt for wear--glazing, cracking, or fraying. The belt should be taut. Tighten by loosening the attachment bracket and moving the... [read more]

Finances. Drugs. Relationships. These can be tough issues to discuss with your children, but you can’t afford to neglect them. Here are some principles to guide you in keeping the lines of communication open: · Create an open environment. Let your children know that you are available to listen whenever they have questions or just want to talk. · Give your undivided attention. Drop everything to listen when your child approaches you, no matter what... [read more]

I'll wear a little poppy, As red as red can be, To show that I remember Those who fought for me. [read more]

Follow these auto insurance tips to help you avoid issues and save money over the snowbird season! Whether you’re taking your car to the U.S. or leaving it in Canada for the winter, snowbirds have unique auto insurance issues to consider. Before you leave for the season, it’s a good idea to review your coverage to ensure that you have appropriate and sufficient coverage for your vehicles. Start by reading your auto insurance policy carefully with regards to travel to... [read more]

Maybe you’ve bought and sold a home before, or maybe this is the first time. Regardless, now you need to get top dollar for it. Yes, you can tidy up, bake some cookies so the house smells nice, and place fresh flowers (research says roses, lavender, and fuchsia most sway buyers) around the house. But these are the typical techniques most sellers deploy. Really want to get the best price possible—or even spark a bidding war? Here are 10 tips that are seldom mentioned in listing... [read more]

Despite being called out for their ineptitude at saving money and their overwhelming fondness for spending it on experiences instead of things, millennials actually do desire financial stability—especially if it means they can buy a house. So what kind of homes do they want? According to real estate professionals, a large majority of millennials seeks out properties that are move-in ready—with plenty of room for customization. "They care more about the home... [read more]

Cold season is coming. Most colds begin in late August or early September, increasing slowly for a few weeks, then remaining high until March or April. The increase may be due to the opening of schools and to cold weather, which prompts people to spend more time indoors and increase the chances that viruses will spread from person to person. Also the most common cold-causing viruses survive better when humidity is low—during the colder months of the year. Cold weather also may make the... [read more]

You've got your costume picked out, candy buckets filled, and party all planned — all that's left to do for the best Halloween ever is put your knowledge to the test. How much do you really know about Halloween? Turns out it's not only about who gets the most chocolate or creates the scariest costume. Over the centuries, the holiday has evolved from a way of begging for food to one of the most commercialized days of the... [read more]

If you tend to procrastinate, or drag your feet getting a task done, here's a simple technique that might help: Start using a timer. If you avoid tasks like cleaning the house, set the timer on your stove or phone for 15 minutes, then make an agreement with yourself to clean like mad for just those 15 minutes. The timer has a way of making the task more bearable because it has an end time. You can "bear" it for 15 minutes. It's likely that you'll keep going after that... [read more]

¨ He thrusts his fists against the posts and still insists he sees the ghosts. ¨ Creepy crawler critters crawl through creepy crawly craters ¨ Dracula digs dreary, dark dungeons. ¨ Ghostly ghouls gather gleefully to golf on ghostly golf courses. ¨ Gobbling gargoyles gobbled gobbling goblins ¨ Horribly hoarse hoot owls hoot howls of horror in Halloween haunted houses. ¨ If big black bats could blow bubbles, how big... [read more]

People with type 2 diabetes often do not have any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they are often ignored because they may not seem serious. Take a look at yourself and your loved ones for these common symptoms of diabetes, keeping in mind that type 2 diabetes develops slowly over many years, and may present only one or two symptoms initially: · Fatigue. · Nausea, perhaps vomiting. · Blurred vision. · In women, frequent vaginal... [read more]

Wills and powers of attorneys aren’t just for the wealthy - they are essential legal documents everyone should have, as they dictate how you or your assets are to be cared for or dealt with in the event you pass away or become incapacitated. A properly drafted and executed will (or wills) ensures that your assets are distributed, and your minor children are taken care of, according to your wishes in the event of your death.  Powers of attorney are equally important documents... [read more]

If you spend most of the winter outside Canada, you may want to explore the opportunity to rent out your Canadian home while you’re away.  Renting out your Canadian residence can have a number of benefits, including helping to cover the costs of your winters away. The extra income can be used to supplement or even offset the cost of your winter home or rental. Another benefit is that your home will be lived in and therefore you won’t have to find someone to inspect it daily... [read more]

Pringles were originally called “Pringles Newfangled Potato Chips.” However, due to the fact that they only contain about 42% potato based content, with most of the rest being from wheat starch and various types of flour, including corn and rice flour, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration made them change the name because their product didn’t technically meet the definition of a potato chip. Their use of the word “chip” was also restricted, forcing them to... [read more]

Fall is the perfect time to take care of the little things that can make a big difference for you and your home. Most of the tasks listed below are well with- in the average person’s ability. But even if you choose to have a professional handle them, it’s worth the expense. You’ll save money – and maybe even your life. Get your mind in the gutters. Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts. Button up your overcoat. Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors with... [read more]

The History of Grandparents Day Marian McQuade hoped to establish a national day that would honour grandparents, and in 1970 she began a campaign to do so. McQuade raised awareness about senior citizens throughout the 1970s. In 1978, President Jimmy Carter declared the first Sunday after Labor Day to be National Grandparents Day.  Each year, the president issues a proclamation to keep the tradition going. Grandparents Day has both an official flower and song.... [read more]

Those who choose to continue to work after retirement often do so to challenge themselves, pursue a passion or stay active and engaged in their community. Others choose to find a second career not out of choice, but because they’ve realized that their savings and social security benefits are not enough to get by, or they have family members who need their financial support. Second Careers for Seniors Out of choice or necessity, here are some of the careers that seniors are... [read more]

A minister was retiring, and after his final sermon, he stood at the door of his church to say farewell to his parishioners. One old woman told him, “I’m sure our next pastor won’t be as good as you’ve been.” The minister was flattered but tried to be modest. “Oh, I’m sure he’ll be fine. What makes you say that?” “I’ve been here for the last five pastors,” said the lady, “and each one has been worse than the one... [read more]

A spoonful of sugar may, as Mary Poppins sang, help the medicine go down. But too many spoonfuls will probably increase your need to take medicine in the first place. Too much sugar—or rather, the unproductive calories it delivers to the body—can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease, among other health problems. How much is too much? An American Heart Association study found that Americans consume an average of 22 teaspoons a day (during 2001-2004). AHA guidelines... [read more]

The summer months are the prime golfing season. The origins of this popular (and frequently frustrating) game are unclear, though some historians trace it back to an ancient Roman game called paganica, in which players used a bent stick to hit a leather ball. A stained glass window dating back to 1340 in Gloucester Cathedral in England shows someone swinging something that looks like a golf club. And a Ming dynasty scroll, also from the 14th century, depicts a member of the Chinese imperial... [read more]

We know it well as the standard symbol for e-mail, but where did it come? History says that the @ symbol was created by medieval monks. During the Middle Ages, each copy of a book was painstakingly transcribed by hand. The task went to monks, who developed ways to reduce the number of pen strokes for common words. The result was to loop the “t” in the word at around the “a.” [read more]

"We found that sleep, mood, and stress are all important factors in determining a sense of control, and in whether older adults feel they can do the things they want to do," said study co-author Shevaun Neupert. She is a professor of psychology at North Carolina State University. "This finding is important because when older adults begin to lose their sense of autonomy, it can lead to changes in behavior that adversely affect their health and well-being," Neupert... [read more]

The Popsicle was invented by an 11-year-old who kept it secret for 18 years. The inventor was Frank Epperson who, in 1905, left a mixture of powdered soda and water out on the porch, which contained a stir stick. That night, temperatures in San Francisco reached a record low. When he woke the next morning, he discovered that it had frozen to the stir stick, creating a fruit flavored ice treat that he humbly named the epsicle. Eighteen years later he patented it and called it the Popsicle. [read more]

Of all the ways you can improve your life to be the best it can be, the one thing that underlies all is vitality. You probably have noticed you’re more vital when you feel good.  After a good night’s sleep, you have more energy than after a poor night’s sleep. After eating light, you have more energy than when you eat heavy. After having success at something, you feel more alive than you do after you fail at something. When you feel vital, it’s easier to get... [read more]

You're a statistic. To an insurer, you're not a person; you're a set of risks. An insurer bases its premium on your "risk factors," including occupation, who you are, what you own, and how you live. Know your home's value. Before you choose a policy, it is essential to establish your home's replacement cost. A local builder can provide the best estimate. Insurers differ. What seems to be the same product can be priced differently by different... [read more]

One of the most important ingredients in scrambled eggs is air. It would be nice if we could just dollop a Tablespoon of air into the mixing bowl, but for the time being, incorporating air into beaten eggs requires good old-fashioned elbow grease. The more you whisk, the more air bubbles become trapped in the shaken and unraveling protein of the eggs. As the eggs cook, protein molecules firm-up around the air bubbles resulting in a spongy texture and hopefully full and fluffy scrambled eggs.... [read more]

Here’s a quick story to observe World Environment Day and illustrate the difficult balance in managing natural resources. In 1968 Garrett Hardin wrote this article to describe a common grassland in which several farmers allow their cattle to graze. In order to increase individual wealth, it is in the interest of each farmer to enlarge their herd and continue to graze on the same piece of land. But after the threshold of a certain number of cattle is exceeded, the quality of the land... [read more]

· Steam-clean your microwave. Cut a lemon in half and put it in a microwave-safe dish filled with water. Zap it until the water boils. Let it steam for another minute before opening. The gunk can now be wiped away with less effort. · Speed up dryer time. Throw one clean dry towel in with your wet clothes before starting the dryer. 10-15 minutes later, take it out. The dry towel will absorb some of the excess moisture. · Clean scorched pans. Fill the... [read more]

June 16th is Father’s Day! It’s a celebration honoring fathers and celebrating fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. In some societies, Father’s Day is a celebration for men to get together and hike or have a physical adventure to celebrate their manhood. June 5th is World Environment Day, an annual event sponsored by the U.N. aimed at being the biggest and most widely celebrated global day for positive environmental action. World Environment... [read more]

The effort put into fatherhood is a man's most important work. Our need to do something important and enduring is built into us by nature. Taking a long view of the eons of human existence, it becomes apparent that raising our children is as essential to human survival as is eating or breathing. The quality of our work will directly affect the quality of that existence, just as our forefathers' love and work gave us the qualities we needed to get us this far. [read more]

We already know that a healthy lifestyle is a major factor in living a long life, but new studies show that having hobbies and staying socially active is equally important for seniors. It has long been known that a nutritious diet, exercise, and positive health choices all contribute to helping seniors feel more energetic. In fact, emerging research into longevity indicates that mental and social activity is just as critical as physical activity when it comes to... [read more]

Working life wasn’t always easy for Geraldine Pennie and her husband. Work as a tool and die maker was well paying, but intermittent, for her husband, Doug. For Pennie, there was a series of contracts in social welfare, including running subisidized housing. Neither spouse was in a job that had a private pension. Still, they were delighted to discover they could easily afford to buy a home, take summer camping trips with their son and daughter, and even enjoy the odd vacation in... [read more]

What is Thermogenic Food? It’s food that raises your metabolism slightly, helping to burn off calories. The best known of these foods are spicy peppers and green tea. But the actual thermogenic effects of those foods are fairly low—about 80 calories at most when consumed in high quantity. The best way to get a thermogenic effect is to combine different foods. Since fat has the lowest thermogenic effect, and protein the highest, a diet low in fat and high in lean protein will... [read more]

Charisma means “divine gift,” and it’s used to describe people with powerful charm and personal magnetism. But it’s not always a gift—many people develop charisma by learning how to connect with people. You can too, using these techniques: Physical presence—Whether or not you’re handsome or beautiful, you can boost your physical charisma: · Take care of your overall health. Healthy people are more attractive. · Make... [read more]

  What we say when we’re… · 4 Years Old - My mommy can do anything. · 8 Years - Mom knows a lot. · 12 Years - Mom doesn't know quite everything. · 14 Years - Naturally, my mother doesn't know what’s going on. · 16 Years – Mom is so old-fashioned. · 18 Years - That old woman? She's way out of date. · 25 Years - Mom knows something about... [read more]

Two sons work for their father on the family farm. The younger son has for years been given more responsibility and reward, and one day the older son asks his father to explain why. The father says, "First, go to the Kelly's and see if they have any geese for sale." The son soon returns with the answer, "Yes they have five geese they can sell us." The father then says, "Good, please ask them the price." The son returns with the answer, "The geese... [read more]

A woman ran a garden store that had been in the family for three generations. For as long as anyone could remember, the garden store’s business was always great and the owner and staff were happy and cheerful. People often said, “Who wouldn’t be happy with the kind of business they’re doing?” When anyone new came into the garden store, they’d notice that all the staff wore a big badge that read, Business Is Great! Everyone who saw the badge for the... [read more]

The history of April Fools’ Day, or All Fools’ Day, is uncertain, but the current thinking is that it began around 1582 in France with the reform of the calendar under Charles IX. The Gregorian Calendar was introduced, and New Year's Day was moved from March 25 - April 1 (new year's week) to January 1. Many people were rebellious and refused to acknowledge the change. They continued to celebrate New Year’s on the last day of the former celebration, April... [read more]

When you first start using coupons, expect a 25-30% reduction in your grocery bill. Over time, with attention to details, you can save 30-50%. And with extreme couponing, you can reach the more than 50% level. · Don't use coupons the week they come out. Stores jack up prices in anticipation. · Use coupon-matching websites such as SavingsAngel, CouponMom and The Grocery Game, and combine manufacturers' and in-store coupons to maximize... [read more]

1998: Burger King published a full page advertisement in USA Today announcing the introduction of a new item to their menu: a "Left-Handed Whopper" specially designed for the 32 million left-handed Americans. According to the ad, the new whopper included the same ingredients, but rotated 180 degrees for the benefit of their left-handed customers. The following day Burger King revealed that although the Left-Handed Whopper was a hoax, thousands of customers had gone into... [read more]

Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament of the Bible, the event is said to have occurred three days after Jesus was crucified by the Romans and died in roughly 30 A.D. [read more]

Kids in the U.S. and Canada grow up expecting a delivery of decorated eggs and candy from the Easter bunny each year, but that tradition may seem odd to some. Brought to this country by German immigrants in the 1700s, the practice is rooted in the belief that rabbits and eggs symbolize fertility and rebirth. While this may be the norm in Canada and America, other cultures have their own unique Easter celebrations. Whether it's drenching one another with water in... [read more]

As you get older, you run the risk of being unable to make your wishes clear when it comes to your estate planning. Many people procrastinate because they don’t know where to start on the process. You may even be afraid that if you sign a power of attorney form over to a child, you may end up stuck in a nursing home. These are all valid concerns. This fear can be mitigated by meeting with an estate planner, and putting your wishes down on paper. Build in a contingency plan for how you... [read more]

Too tired to work out? Too busy? Too...whatever? Here's a way to slip exercise into your day without heading to the gym or breaking for a long period. 5x5 exercise means to exercise vigorously five times per day for five minutes each time. When you get up in the morning, do morning calesthenics. Take five to do jumping jacks, run in place, do burpees, or put on the music and dance. Five minutes goes by quickly. On morning and afternoon breaks at work, instead of lounging in the... [read more]

Socrates was once approached by a man who asked the great teacher to help him to become a better student. The master took the would-be student into the water and suddenly pushed him under and held him there. Surging to the surface, out of breath, the young man gasped, “Why did you do that?” Socrates answered, “When you want to learn as badly as you wanted to breathe, you will.” [read more]

As a professional photographer, Julie took a lot of pride in her work. One evening she was at a dinner party with a master chef. The chef asked to view some of Julie's images, and afterwards complimented her. “These are really good," he told her. “You must have a great camera to get shots this nice.”    After dinner, Julie complimented the host on his wonderful food. “That dinner was excellent,” she said. “You must have some high... [read more]

Everyone has heard of Murphy's first law: "If anything can go wrong, invariably it will." But hardly anybody knows who Murphy was. The search for Murphy's notebooks over the years has led to a garage in Toledo, Ohio; an inventor's junk loft in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania; and the home of a retired female blackmailer in Sarasota, Florida. It was learned that Murphy had no first name, that he never could hold a job, and that his writings were returned by the post office for... [read more]

Sunday, March 17th is St. Patrick’s Day. Why do we bother to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day around the world? Obviously, you might say, the day is to honour Ireland's patron saint, who introduced Catholicism to the Irish and rid their land of snakes. But that's not really what we're celebrating, is it? We're really using it as an excuse to wear green and throw a big party. Everyone knows the Irish love a good party. Our methods of celebrating might differ around the... [read more]

Scientists have known since the 1930s that plants sense the length of the days and, somehow, use that information to decide when to flower. Russian scientists back then speculated that a mysterious substance must be transported from leaves to shoot tips, stimulating the formation of flower buds. They called the mystery chemical “florigen.” In 2005, a trio of new studies revealed how it works, including why flowers spring forth in certain spots on a plant. The findings were... [read more]

Get ready for sunnier days, whether you have an hour or a weekend to spare. The first official day of spring is March 20. So whether there’s still snow on the ground or flowers in bloom, you can rest assured that nicer weather is on its way. Usher in the new season with a bit of spring cleaning, some fresh flowers and — if you can get outdoors — a little dirt under your fingernails. Things to Check Off Your List in an Hour or Less 1. Make mirrors and table lamps... [read more]

A strong relationship is founded on communication and sharing.  So how much do you know about your partner or spouse?  Try these simple questions — the more you can honestly answer “yes” to, the firmer ground you’re on:  I know who my partner’s best friends are. I can describe my partner’s greatest ambition. I can name my partner’s favorite singer or musical group. My partner appreciates the things I do for him/her. My... [read more]

Excellent customer service comes from people who care, not company policy. Take this example of a front-desk clerk at Walt Disney World’s Polynesian Village resort. As a guest was checking out, she told the desk clerk that she had a wonderful visit but had been heartbroken when she lost several rolls of film she hadn’t yet        developed. The clerk not only sympathized with the guest, she also told the woman to leave a couple of unused rolls.... [read more]

Making any kind of prediction about the real estate market is a risky proposition. The website of Housing Finance magazine, though, cautions readers to be wary of these age-based assumptions: Generation Y doesn’t want to buy a house. In fact, one survey of over 1,200 members of Generation Y found that about 36 percent already own a house, and 70 percent of those who don’t own a home expect to buy one by their early 30s. Baby Boomers want “Independent Senior... [read more]

Being a mother can be stressful. But admitting that you sometimes need a break can be hard, given the expectations that society has for the “perfect” mother. A survey of some 25,000 moms (reported on the Parenting.com website) uncovered some secrets about what mothers want, and don’t want, from their lives. Some of the longings and preferences the mothers admitted to were: • 23 percent say what they want most is some time alone. • 49 percent have sent their... [read more]

Real Estate Staging is the process of preparing a home for sale. Staging is really about un-decorating and removing years of living, collecting & decorating so a buyer can visualize themselves living in the home. When a seller "lets go" of some of their own things, it then gives permission for the buyer to buy! There are many benefits of staging your home for sale. Here are the top 5 reasons. 1. Staging is always less than your first price reduction. In most cases a price... [read more]

To leave the old with a burst of song, to recall the right and forgive the wrong. To forget the thing that binds you fast to the vain regrets of the year that’s past. To have the strength to let go your hold of the not worthwhile of the days grown old. To dare to go forth with a purpose true, to the unknown task of the year that’s new. To help your brother along the road to do his work and lift his load.. To add your gift to the world’s good cheer is to have and... [read more]

Province Helping Seniors Stay Active and Socially Connected Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility Ontario is helping seniors stay active and connected to their communities by investing in up to 40 new Seniors Active Living Centres across the province. Dipika Damerla, Minister of Seniors Affairs, joined by Vic Dhillon, MPP, Brampton-West, was at the Villa Polonia in Brampton today to announce the recipients of new Seniors Active Living Centre funding. CANES Community Care is... [read more]

Caring for an elderly relative can be challenging when you’re committed to your career. Many people leave their jobs to care for parents, but that isn’t your only option. Consider these strategies for keeping your job—and your sanity: ¨ Look into workplace regulations for taking time off to care for relatives. ¨ Flex your work schedule. You may be able to telecommute, work part-time, or take on a flexible schedule. Talk to your manager. If you’re... [read more]

November 1st, 1959 - After being hit in the face with a hockey puck, Jacques Plante, goalie for the Canadiens at the time, created the hockey mask out of fiberglass and resin. November 3rd, 1718 - The birth of John Montague, Fourth Earl of Sandwich, who hit upon pairing bread and meat slices to sustain him through lengthy gambling sessions. November 7th, 1885 – the first transcontinental railroad across Canada, concluded with the driving of the "last spike" in... [read more]

With winter upon us, many of you probably already have your furnace running. If you haven’t turned it on yet, or haven’t done the maintenance yet, here are some quick tips. 1. Turn off the gas and electricity to the furnace. 2. Vacuum the furnace interior everywhere you can reach. 3. Change the air filter. 4. Check the fan belt for wear--glazing, cracking, or fraying. The belt should be taut. Tighten by loosening the attachment bracket and moving the... [read more]

Halloween may be one of the scariest holidays of the year, but people seem to take delight in being scared in every season. What’s the appeal of ghost stories, horror movies, frightening novels, and things that go bump in the night? Experts have a few theories: · We like the adrenaline. Fear has the same adrenaline producing effect as excitement. It feels good. Scary movies, stories, and books are methods of releasing adrenaline in a controlled... [read more]

A young man was helping his elderly mother move into a new apartment building. He was sensitive to the fact that his mother had always been quite active, both in her job and in her volunteer work after retirement. But he was concerned that she’d have trouble taking care of herself. So, as he was unpacking boxes, he casually asked her, “Mom, have you ever considered Meals on Wheels?” The mother sighed sadly. “I have, but you know, I just don’t think I have... [read more]

Haunted houses are a $300 million a year business, with more than 3,000 throughout North America. Some of the most-visited places are: 1) Whaley House in San Diego, California; 2) Madison’s Haunted Inn in Kincardine, Ottawa; 3) Oppertsauer House in Stony Plain, Edmonton. Alberta; 4) The ghost town of Jerome, Arizona; 5) The town of Fergus, Ontario; 6) The battlefields of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania; 7) The site of the witch hunts, Salem, Massachusetts; These... [read more]

Grandparents Day is September 9, here are some delightful stories from – and about – grandparents:  My young grandson called the other day to wish me Happy Birthday.  He asked how old I was, and I told him “62.”  He was quiet for a moment and then he asked, “Did you start at one?” When my grandson Billy and I entered our vacation cabin, we kept the lights off until we were inside to keep from attracting pesky insects.  Still, a few... [read more]

The Autumnal Equinox occurs on September 22nd, ushering in a new season. The equinoxes (both Autumnal in fall, and Vernal in spring) mark the points in the year when the sun crosses the equator so that every place on earth experiences an equal amount of daylight and darkness. Equinoxes are also the days when the sun rises in the Northern Hemisphere exactly due east and it sets exactly due west. The equinoxes have been observed and celebrated for thousands of years and have significance... [read more]

The first day of school looms large and scary for new pupils – and their parents as well.  Here are some suggestions on how to ease the transition:   Establish a routine in the morning before the school year starts, so your child can get accustomed to dressing and having breakfast without hurrying.   Before classes begin, visit the school with your child so it won’t seem so strange.  Many schools have special orientation programs to familiarize... [read more]

By this time of year, your plants could be looking tired and awful. Although the heat may make working in the garden a daunting prospect, whether you have a few acres or a few potted plants, a little love this month will keep your plants looking nice until the Fall, when the days start getting shorter and the garden slows down. Deadhead: Cutting off the spent blooms on your plants will tell them to make new ones. If you have roses and it’s late in the month, you can give them a... [read more]

Heat got you down?  Is your elevator not going all the way to the top?   If you have a few moments, these simple things might help snap you  out of it: · Spritz your favorite scent in your living space. If you save your best fragrance for special occasions, smelling it can take you back to a fun time and put a smile on your face. Why let it sit in the bottle? · Pop a multi-vitamin.  If you have been dragging lately, you might not have been... [read more]

When the temperature gets up there and you’re wearing shorts and a tank top, remember: your best friend has a fur coat on. Besides panting, do you know what dogs do to tell you when they’ve had too much fun in the sun? Heavy panting His tongue and mucous membranes are bright red. His saliva is thick and sticky It’s important to act immediately if a dog has any of the above symptoms. First, move your dog out of the sun (or heat) to an area where there is cool air... [read more]

  If your vacation should have relaxed and recharged you why can going back to work be so hard?  It takes two days to come back up to speed after a two-week vacation, according to researchers. Here are a few ideas to minimize that deer-in-the-headlights feeling when you go back to work: Let others know your plans. Let clients and co-workers know when you’ll be away and give them alternative contacts. You’ll reduce the number of messages waiting for you at the... [read more]

Thought you knew all there was to know about the true north strong and free? These surprising facts about Canada will have you seeing our beautiful country in a whole new way. Canada’s lowest recorded temperature is as cold as Mars One of the most common facts about Canada is that it can get pretty cold in the winter (anyone who’s ever had to chisel their car out of a block of ice in the morning knows this to be true). The average low for the month of January in Ottawa is... [read more]

Do you reach for a painkiller, for yourself or your family, when you get a shot?  That may not be such a good idea, according to researchers at the University of Rochester. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium — can react with your body’s immune system and weaken the effect of flu shots and other vaccinations. Scientists suggest it might be better to tough it out and stay away from NSAIDs a day or so before... [read more]

On average, families move about every five years and we are always looking for repair and service people we can trust. Most of us rely on wise neighbors for referrals to reliable plumbers, painters and auto mechanics. Still, it takes time to develop your own personal relationships with them. Here are some ways that may help give you more confidence in your choices until you and your service people have bonded. Ask around for shops and services before you need them. Don’t put off... [read more]

Fathers play a special, irreplaceable role in our lives, and Father’s Day is a great time to let them know that. On June 17, skip the tie and tell all the  special, irreplaceable dads in your life what they mean to you from the bottom of your heart. Some suggestions: Write a letter thanking your father/uncle/grandfather/ brother/son for all he’s done and all he means to you.  Read it in front of him and the whole family. You can frame it and even add photos or... [read more]

Thomas Edison (1847-1931) was possibly the greatest   inventor who ever lived.  He received more than 1,000 patents in his lifetime, many for items we take for granted today: the alkaline battery, the motion picture camera, the phonograph and, of course, the light bulb.  There’s a story that it took  Edison more than 2,000   experiments before he got his light bulb to work.  When a reporter asked him how it felt to fail so many times, Edison said,... [read more]

Like speeches from the throne, budgets are aspirational documents delivered by the governing party to outline their spending priorities, with hopes of continuing to be the governing party. Given how close today’s Ontario budget is to the June 7 provincial election, a healthy dose of skepticism is warranted.   This budget leaves the impression that the Ontario Liberals are gambling that Ontarians will forgive significant deficits if it means large investments in social... [read more]

Many of us eat more than we need to.  Often it’s because we think we’re hungry when instead we’re anxious, depressed, bored, or just tempted by the plate of brownies a coworker brought in this morning. Although you shouldn’t wait until you’re faint with hunger to eat, it’s good to pay attention to the signals your body is sending you.  These are the typical symptoms of real hunger: · Growling, gurgling, or rumbling in the... [read more]

Cell phones sometimes seem to create as many problems as they solve.  To smooth over the rough spots, CellPhones.org put together this list of cell phone etiquette tips: Lower your voice.  Don’t force everyone around you to listen to your half of the conversation. Avoid personal subjects.  Resist the temptation to overshare where complete strangers can listen to your intimate secrets. Don’t take calls (or text) when talking to someone else.  If you... [read more]

In the unfortunate circumstance that a homeowner is past-due on their monthly mortgage payments, they pave the way for a “foreclosure” on their property. In today’s market, banks and other lenders do not turn to foreclosure to take away the homes of homeowners who are in arrears. Instead, they perform a "Power of Sale" which is wholly different from a Foreclosure. What is a Foreclosure? Foreclosures are laborious, grueling, and costly to both the... [read more]