Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Friends at Our Home During Xmas
Over the Xmas holidays we had many of the family drop in. Some stayed for a while but some just came to say hello. We all managed to get together at Lynda's for dinner and Peter as usual with the help from the Boss gave a great dinner party. My computer was unable to have my pictures converted for my blog so I am on Theresa's machine and here are some o
f the best ones.
Monday, December 29, 2014
Weeks Of Work and Holiday Visitors
It is not easy to accomplish a house staging mission and have holiday visitors as well. We were able to have success in both areas as one of our visitors was a seasoned stager. Our daughter Darlene came from Ottawa with her daughter and husband and provided some much needed help in the preparation of our home for sale.
We were on a very short timetable to get everything ready for a new year sale. You never realize just how many things you collect over the years. I call them things because that is exactly what much of our collection is. Items we have never used in years and hidden away from the light of day became just junk and we treated them like that. The Sally Ann received much of our treasures and the dumpster became home to most of the rest. Family took a few items and that was that.
The items we plan to take away to our new home became packed in a proper manner and now fill our double garage. I cannot count the exact number but over fifty boxes are now ready for a new home. Our good dishes are carefully packed and our collection of paintings are carefully stored in the basement where they are safe from damage in the unheated garage.
Our holiday was just great with the regular dinner at Lynda's and the gift opening which always provides happy surprises. Doris was present and she gives our grandchildren something to look forward to as she loves the contact with the young ones at her age and looks forward to all family gatherings.
Theresa and I are not quite out of the woods with our timetable but we seem to be at our best when the chips are down. Being busy gave us an excuse to ignore the lousy weather for this time of the year. For me this is the first blog I wrote in ages and I expect to get back at my hobby soon to share some of the sheer joy of living in a vibrant atmosphere with my family and friends.
We were on a very short timetable to get everything ready for a new year sale. You never realize just how many things you collect over the years. I call them things because that is exactly what much of our collection is. Items we have never used in years and hidden away from the light of day became just junk and we treated them like that. The Sally Ann received much of our treasures and the dumpster became home to most of the rest. Family took a few items and that was that.
The items we plan to take away to our new home became packed in a proper manner and now fill our double garage. I cannot count the exact number but over fifty boxes are now ready for a new home. Our good dishes are carefully packed and our collection of paintings are carefully stored in the basement where they are safe from damage in the unheated garage.
Our holiday was just great with the regular dinner at Lynda's and the gift opening which always provides happy surprises. Doris was present and she gives our grandchildren something to look forward to as she loves the contact with the young ones at her age and looks forward to all family gatherings.
Theresa and I are not quite out of the woods with our timetable but we seem to be at our best when the chips are down. Being busy gave us an excuse to ignore the lousy weather for this time of the year. For me this is the first blog I wrote in ages and I expect to get back at my hobby soon to share some of the sheer joy of living in a vibrant atmosphere with my family and friends.
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Selling Your Home
Selling your home is a very emotional happening. First of all you have been happy surrounded by all those things that made you comfortable. The family pictures, the stuffed animal you won years ago and that plate you bought to celebrate the 100 anniversary of the town in which you were born
The seller comes in and dressed in expensive clothes and leaving her exotic car parked at the curb tell you that everything that labels you as a person must be hidden, gotten rid of or just made to disappear. This is because the buyer might think that this personal connection to the seller might ruin the sale. You stand and with mouth open take her advice and begin to mentally make the changes that she requests.
She smiles and appears to be your friend and with perfect language begins to take apart your history. It is impossible to interject as she has statistics to prove that staging is real and economically advantageous for the seller. I said little and Theresa and I agreed that she had good points and having a daughter who is a professional stager we would be able to verify the requests at Xmas when she visits for a holiday.
I had a long session with Theresa and decided to go along the requests but it involved long hours of work for we the seller. I began the work with a four day painting job and we cleared some junk (treasures) from our rooms. Selling your home is not a kind operation but similar to a ten day dose of the flue.
The seller comes in and dressed in expensive clothes and leaving her exotic car parked at the curb tell you that everything that labels you as a person must be hidden, gotten rid of or just made to disappear. This is because the buyer might think that this personal connection to the seller might ruin the sale. You stand and with mouth open take her advice and begin to mentally make the changes that she requests.
She smiles and appears to be your friend and with perfect language begins to take apart your history. It is impossible to interject as she has statistics to prove that staging is real and economically advantageous for the seller. I said little and Theresa and I agreed that she had good points and having a daughter who is a professional stager we would be able to verify the requests at Xmas when she visits for a holiday.
I had a long session with Theresa and decided to go along the requests but it involved long hours of work for we the seller. I began the work with a four day painting job and we cleared some junk (treasures) from our rooms. Selling your home is not a kind operation but similar to a ten day dose of the flue.
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Oil Economy
Just as we must diversity our investments the government must diversity its support for various industries. In this Canada of ours the western lobby was so strong that the federal government gave he amounts of money for the oil industry. Harper thought that the tar sands would bring Canada the wealth it needed to become a oil dependent country like Saudi Arabia.
The people who thought that the country had to look at clean energy and green production would be the key to the future. Germany and European countries have driven their populations to conserve and to support the production of energy from wind and solar power to the point where their reliance on oil has diminished tremendously.
Here our government not only subsidized the oil industry to the tune of billions of dollars but used tax payers dollars to advertise freely for these foreign companies to build pipelines and the development of more tar sand companies. Well the chickens have come back to roost and Saudi Arabia is putting the screws to all foreign oil producers and our economy is in shambles. The Saudi's have turned up the production to make the cost of oil on the world market today at $60.43 per barrel. This is half of the cost six months ago and below the cost of production for the Canadian producers.
The TSE has seen a drop of 600 points in three days and still falling. Where was the government predictors who said to carry on the policy of an oil economy. Ontario has lost 350,000 good manufacturing jobs and they did not receive any support from the federal government. As a matter of fact the last big losses in Ontario did not even cause a ripple at the national level.
We have to watch to find out if the government has a plan to right the huge mistake in the long range planning for Canada's economic future. I guess the falling dollar will help our people who sell abroad and this was the result of the government so I suppose this is their plan #2.
Alberta had everything going for itself and looked at the rest of Canada as poor sisters. Lets see how they handle the unemployment problem in six months when there are thousands of oil workers looking for EI. There has been a huge migration to the oil patch and I hope Canada can cope with the havoc about to come to this oil rich area.
The people who thought that the country had to look at clean energy and green production would be the key to the future. Germany and European countries have driven their populations to conserve and to support the production of energy from wind and solar power to the point where their reliance on oil has diminished tremendously.
Here our government not only subsidized the oil industry to the tune of billions of dollars but used tax payers dollars to advertise freely for these foreign companies to build pipelines and the development of more tar sand companies. Well the chickens have come back to roost and Saudi Arabia is putting the screws to all foreign oil producers and our economy is in shambles. The Saudi's have turned up the production to make the cost of oil on the world market today at $60.43 per barrel. This is half of the cost six months ago and below the cost of production for the Canadian producers.
The TSE has seen a drop of 600 points in three days and still falling. Where was the government predictors who said to carry on the policy of an oil economy. Ontario has lost 350,000 good manufacturing jobs and they did not receive any support from the federal government. As a matter of fact the last big losses in Ontario did not even cause a ripple at the national level.
We have to watch to find out if the government has a plan to right the huge mistake in the long range planning for Canada's economic future. I guess the falling dollar will help our people who sell abroad and this was the result of the government so I suppose this is their plan #2.
Alberta had everything going for itself and looked at the rest of Canada as poor sisters. Lets see how they handle the unemployment problem in six months when there are thousands of oil workers looking for EI. There has been a huge migration to the oil patch and I hope Canada can cope with the havoc about to come to this oil rich area.
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Found Precious Object
Theresa and I have bought a new home and of course we have to pack but before that we have to downsize and get rid of the clutter. Over the years we have moved and every time we get rid of some of the stuff we really don't need nor use. I lost a pin my father was given when he volunteered for the Army in 1939. I was given it by my father many years ago and always kept it with my pin collection. It disappeared.
I never let myself believe that it was really lost but just misplaced. Today I was getting rid of old jewelry and discovered that I never threw away much but put it in a box for safe keeping. I actually had eight such boxes and counted twenty four watches, three worked but I just kept them because the bracelet was ok or whatever.
I looked at credit cards by the dozen, screw nails and picture hangers and numerous items that I had not even looked at for years. Cuff links, tie clips, name cards from banquets and a million other things I deemed collectable at the time. Today I opened a special little jewelry box where I kept rings. My school ring, first signet ring, Masonic ring, university ring and several other rings which either did not fit or were in need of repair. There wrapped up in a small plastic bag was my fathers pin. You would have thought I struck gold as my happiness was extreme. After years I looked at this tiny object which showed that my father was a person ready to go off to war and worn with pride by all Canadian Servicemen after the second great war.
Good things do happen when you clean up your clutter but look carefully at every object before throwing it in the waste paper basket as it could be a precious item.
I never let myself believe that it was really lost but just misplaced. Today I was getting rid of old jewelry and discovered that I never threw away much but put it in a box for safe keeping. I actually had eight such boxes and counted twenty four watches, three worked but I just kept them because the bracelet was ok or whatever.
I looked at credit cards by the dozen, screw nails and picture hangers and numerous items that I had not even looked at for years. Cuff links, tie clips, name cards from banquets and a million other things I deemed collectable at the time. Today I opened a special little jewelry box where I kept rings. My school ring, first signet ring, Masonic ring, university ring and several other rings which either did not fit or were in need of repair. There wrapped up in a small plastic bag was my fathers pin. You would have thought I struck gold as my happiness was extreme. After years I looked at this tiny object which showed that my father was a person ready to go off to war and worn with pride by all Canadian Servicemen after the second great war.
Good things do happen when you clean up your clutter but look carefully at every object before throwing it in the waste paper basket as it could be a precious item.
Lost Inocence
Canada has for about 140 years been recognized as a peace loving country with a reputation of helping the world through its peace keeping capabilities. The last years under this Conservative Government we have been seen as just the opposite. Our world status in relation to our behavior in the field of environmental issues, military involvement on the coattails of the USA and total dependency on a dirty oil economy has made us very vulnerable to negative reactions from the troubled nations of the middle east.
Our military actions in Afghanistan cost us 140 lives, 2000 wounded and some needy for life, 20 billions in costs and for what? Our limited actions in the war on ISIS has cost us to be named as one of the nations to receive special attention from the terrorists. We have young Canadian people who have left our country to fight against us because of our involvement in the war. Had we been true to our real Canadian Spirit we could have been a positive factor in peacekeeping activities.
Our country has had a terrible reshaping of our world image by a prime minister who has a cabinet who are afraid to speak outside the scripted cards they are given every day before question period. There are some real strong members in that group who could make a contribution and one who is no longer with us showed in his financial ability and spoke out. Because we have a leader who makes all the decisions we are held ransom on the world stage. Harper should be given all the credit and blame for the mess we have in so many of the federal responsibilities. Good cabinet ministers should have been given the confidence to run their departments and we would not have the terrible problems in so many of the critical social issues facing Canada today.
Aboriginal issues left unsolved will fester and be a huge problem in the next few years, oil based economy cannot sustain itself and the money given to prop up that foreign owned enterprise will sink our economic base. Lets hope come the new year we will have some good news and have a team approach to Canada's needs involving all the good men and women we have sent to Ottawa to work on our behalf.
Our military actions in Afghanistan cost us 140 lives, 2000 wounded and some needy for life, 20 billions in costs and for what? Our limited actions in the war on ISIS has cost us to be named as one of the nations to receive special attention from the terrorists. We have young Canadian people who have left our country to fight against us because of our involvement in the war. Had we been true to our real Canadian Spirit we could have been a positive factor in peacekeeping activities.
Our country has had a terrible reshaping of our world image by a prime minister who has a cabinet who are afraid to speak outside the scripted cards they are given every day before question period. There are some real strong members in that group who could make a contribution and one who is no longer with us showed in his financial ability and spoke out. Because we have a leader who makes all the decisions we are held ransom on the world stage. Harper should be given all the credit and blame for the mess we have in so many of the federal responsibilities. Good cabinet ministers should have been given the confidence to run their departments and we would not have the terrible problems in so many of the critical social issues facing Canada today.
Aboriginal issues left unsolved will fester and be a huge problem in the next few years, oil based economy cannot sustain itself and the money given to prop up that foreign owned enterprise will sink our economic base. Lets hope come the new year we will have some good news and have a team approach to Canada's needs involving all the good men and women we have sent to Ottawa to work on our behalf.
Monday, December 8, 2014
Winter Residents
Looking out of my bedroom window during the past few days has introduced me to some new residents. A rabbit has taken up the far end of our yard and sits in the same place every day for several hours. There is little of any value as food except our few cedar trees and I noticed that they are being trimmed a little every day. Our large round cedar tree has become the overnight roosting place for many birds. Sparrows and slate juncos are there in numbers and there is the regular doves who just hang around.
The squirrel population has really increased in our area and the black and grey squirrels provide entertainment as they amuse themselves in the trees which have many nests. One of our squirrel nests suddenly disappeared during a wind storm and the family still seem to visit the sight where it was located.
My neighbour told me the other day that he heard the coyotes just a short distance from our home. I heard them yelping the other morning and there seemed to be a fairly large family in the vacant land along the flood canal below our home. The red tail hawks have a better opportunity of catching their food now that the leaves are down and there is no snow. We have many raptors along the highway right away and they seem to be healthy and maintaining their numbers.
Winter brings new birds to our attention and people who feed are careful to put out the proper food for consumption of wildlife. It is important to continue feeding if you have a feeder as the birds depend on reliable sources of food.
The squirrel population has really increased in our area and the black and grey squirrels provide entertainment as they amuse themselves in the trees which have many nests. One of our squirrel nests suddenly disappeared during a wind storm and the family still seem to visit the sight where it was located.
My neighbour told me the other day that he heard the coyotes just a short distance from our home. I heard them yelping the other morning and there seemed to be a fairly large family in the vacant land along the flood canal below our home. The red tail hawks have a better opportunity of catching their food now that the leaves are down and there is no snow. We have many raptors along the highway right away and they seem to be healthy and maintaining their numbers.
Winter brings new birds to our attention and people who feed are careful to put out the proper food for consumption of wildlife. It is important to continue feeding if you have a feeder as the birds depend on reliable sources of food.
Sunday, December 7, 2014
Roadblock to Progress
Our Canadian tradition of peace and co-operation between the federal and provincial levels of government appear to be over. We in Ontario have had a recent election and our Premier has sought meeting with the Prime Minister to discuss mutual concerns and programs. The pm has refused to meet with the premier of the largest province and by far the most important province for him as 72 members of the government are from Ontario.
The pm has had time to receive lesser people from other jurisdictions including a state governor from New Jersey. It is interesting that some people who seem to know feel a simple snub may have caused the problem. When the premier tried to talk to the pm about a new pension scheme she reported that all he did was grin and make a personal put off as he thought the idea was worthless. The premier reported this event and since that time there has been no contact between the two.
Our Prime Minister is doing a stupid political move as he must have strong support from the people of Ontario in the next election if he is to stay in power. Childish behavior has no place in relations between persons in power. I can only hope that Harper wakes up and meets with our premier and he might even find her to be a very intelligent and likable person.
The pm has had time to receive lesser people from other jurisdictions including a state governor from New Jersey. It is interesting that some people who seem to know feel a simple snub may have caused the problem. When the premier tried to talk to the pm about a new pension scheme she reported that all he did was grin and make a personal put off as he thought the idea was worthless. The premier reported this event and since that time there has been no contact between the two.
Our Prime Minister is doing a stupid political move as he must have strong support from the people of Ontario in the next election if he is to stay in power. Childish behavior has no place in relations between persons in power. I can only hope that Harper wakes up and meets with our premier and he might even find her to be a very intelligent and likable person.
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Partnerships
In Canada there is a unique process in our parliamentary system where we share responsibility and power. There are three levels of government and all have to work together to get the job of serving the people done in a proper manner. Since the Premier of Ontario has the responsibility for about a third of Canada"s population she requested to have a meeting with the Prime Minister. The PM has denied the request and said Ontario could do as the federal government has done a cut programs and balance its budget . He refuses to meet and talk about plans of mutual concern.
Harper has met with other premiers but because of his childish and stupid attitude towards the liberal leader he just ignores the request. There are ways that the federal government has punished Ontario through improper transfer payments and the people of Ontario are being short changed. This mess has to be settled and there must be a collaborative effort to work together.
Party politics should be shoved aside and co-operation among the three levels of government reestablished once more.
Harper has met with other premiers but because of his childish and stupid attitude towards the liberal leader he just ignores the request. There are ways that the federal government has punished Ontario through improper transfer payments and the people of Ontario are being short changed. This mess has to be settled and there must be a collaborative effort to work together.
Party politics should be shoved aside and co-operation among the three levels of government reestablished once more.
Poverty ...Our National Discrace
During the last few weeks there has been many headlines in the major papers about the huge problem of poverty in Canada. Figures vary but it is recognized that over a quarter of our people in Canada live below the poverty level. Some place it as high as a third of the people. One in five of our school children come to school every day hungry. A significant number of seniors have to decide whether to buy their needed drugs or buy food. Dental services for a third of the people in Canada is financially out of reach.
The federal government has trashed many of the social safety nets and has cut programs to the bone in order to balance the budget. A Tory member stated that the Liberals would take the easy way out by raising taxes instead of cutting programs. What is easy about hungry school children, families that are debt ridden and seniors stressed because they have a fixed income which does not permit them to pay their bills or have proper medical care?
The easy way is to sit in the seats of parliament and cabinet and reduce spending at the expense of the poor. Most Canadians believe in a compassionate government and sensible programs to balance taxes and spending to support what most of us would call the unique Canadian character of a good government. Who believes that raising taxes is an easy decision? It is much easier to cut spending at the expense of the underclass who are being treated like collateral damage at the alter of the balanced budget. Conservatives believe and support the idea that the balanced budget is worth the human cost which is tearing Canadian families to pieces.In my Canada a government should reach out to the poor, help the young and raise taxes in balance and become inclusive not obsessive.
The federal government has trashed many of the social safety nets and has cut programs to the bone in order to balance the budget. A Tory member stated that the Liberals would take the easy way out by raising taxes instead of cutting programs. What is easy about hungry school children, families that are debt ridden and seniors stressed because they have a fixed income which does not permit them to pay their bills or have proper medical care?
The easy way is to sit in the seats of parliament and cabinet and reduce spending at the expense of the poor. Most Canadians believe in a compassionate government and sensible programs to balance taxes and spending to support what most of us would call the unique Canadian character of a good government. Who believes that raising taxes is an easy decision? It is much easier to cut spending at the expense of the underclass who are being treated like collateral damage at the alter of the balanced budget. Conservatives believe and support the idea that the balanced budget is worth the human cost which is tearing Canadian families to pieces.In my Canada a government should reach out to the poor, help the young and raise taxes in balance and become inclusive not obsessive.
Thursday, November 20, 2014
What is a Priority
In Canada we are faced with thousands of children going to school every day hungry. There is a need for social housing in every city and town. Our programs for mental illness is critical. Youth unemployment is at an all time high. Infra-structure in the form of bridges and highways has reached a dangerous level. Are these issues deemed to be a priority for governments. The answer from them is there is no more money.
War on ISIS has taken a priority for our government and there seems to be no end of resources for this project. The problem I see is that the government can make an extreme effort to raise cash for what they deem to be a priority. Our government spent over $650,000,000 in advertising this session to make sure they would get re-elected. That was a priority.
Would it not be a fresh breath of government programming if they got their priorities better adjusted. How much better we would be as a country if we fed our hungry, helped cure our sick people and have projects that would make Canada a cleaner and safer place in which to live. They have the resources but not the will. The government is supposed to express the will of the people because they are there to manage our affairs It would seem that when they get elected they do everything to make sure they remain in power. How sad.
War on ISIS has taken a priority for our government and there seems to be no end of resources for this project. The problem I see is that the government can make an extreme effort to raise cash for what they deem to be a priority. Our government spent over $650,000,000 in advertising this session to make sure they would get re-elected. That was a priority.
Would it not be a fresh breath of government programming if they got their priorities better adjusted. How much better we would be as a country if we fed our hungry, helped cure our sick people and have projects that would make Canada a cleaner and safer place in which to live. They have the resources but not the will. The government is supposed to express the will of the people because they are there to manage our affairs It would seem that when they get elected they do everything to make sure they remain in power. How sad.
Monday, November 17, 2014
Birthday and Winter Wonderland
Yesterday we celebrated two birthdays. Lyndsay and sister Harmony celebrated together as their B'days are close together. We had a great time once again and Lyndsay as the oldest of the grand children maintained that role for another year.
To welcome them it started to snow when we began our celebration a d continued until we were greeted with a winter wonderland. Our first snow is always welcome and we embrace it but with the forecast for snow for the rest of the week we may change our minds.
To welcome them it started to snow when we began our celebration a d continued until we were greeted with a winter wonderland. Our first snow is always welcome and we embrace it but with the forecast for snow for the rest of the week we may change our minds.
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Weather Weary
While Theresa and I were in South Carolina we frequently checked the weather channel. Because of the Arctic Vortex the whole discussion was how this situation was going to reap havoc on the USA.Every station on the network all got in the act and weather became the opening topic for the news.
A whole week of this constant needing experts to explain the impact of the weather became an obsession with the CNN and other networks. Who would think that the old expression that everyone talks about the weather wold become so true. Here in Oakville there are 400 plus people working at the weather network building which is huge and has been extended several times since it was located here.
Perhaps it is a good thing that people talk about the weather as it takes their mind off of all the ugly like Canada's reporting of the military activity of the air force in Iraq. It was so comical that a Major General was on the CBC reporting on the first two days of activity. Day one there were two Jets in the air which had to be refueled for the four hours of patrolling looking for targets. They landed with all ordinance intact. Day two there were four aircraft in the air and two fighter jets bombed a vital target. They destroyed or caused the bulldozer and two trucks to be useless. Two bombs from each plane were used. These were 500 lb, laser guided, smart bombs at a cost of some $500,000 each. Not to make fun of the air force because they are doing exactly as they are asked but to make their efforts news and exposing the uselessness of this whole plan is surely counter productive.
At present we have 600 plus Canadian military keeping the 9 aircraft in service. The two surveillance aircraft are serving a a platform for the management of all the aircraft and are excellent at what they do. These aircraft also access damage reports on the effectiveness of the coalition bombing missions. The other aircraft is a fuel stop in the air and since Canada's ground support comes from a southern base it is necessary for the Canadians to operate over their patrol responsibility in Northern Iraq.
From weather to war we will see which has the better ratings after a short time. I will bet on the weather.
A whole week of this constant needing experts to explain the impact of the weather became an obsession with the CNN and other networks. Who would think that the old expression that everyone talks about the weather wold become so true. Here in Oakville there are 400 plus people working at the weather network building which is huge and has been extended several times since it was located here.
Perhaps it is a good thing that people talk about the weather as it takes their mind off of all the ugly like Canada's reporting of the military activity of the air force in Iraq. It was so comical that a Major General was on the CBC reporting on the first two days of activity. Day one there were two Jets in the air which had to be refueled for the four hours of patrolling looking for targets. They landed with all ordinance intact. Day two there were four aircraft in the air and two fighter jets bombed a vital target. They destroyed or caused the bulldozer and two trucks to be useless. Two bombs from each plane were used. These were 500 lb, laser guided, smart bombs at a cost of some $500,000 each. Not to make fun of the air force because they are doing exactly as they are asked but to make their efforts news and exposing the uselessness of this whole plan is surely counter productive.
At present we have 600 plus Canadian military keeping the 9 aircraft in service. The two surveillance aircraft are serving a a platform for the management of all the aircraft and are excellent at what they do. These aircraft also access damage reports on the effectiveness of the coalition bombing missions. The other aircraft is a fuel stop in the air and since Canada's ground support comes from a southern base it is necessary for the Canadians to operate over their patrol responsibility in Northern Iraq.
From weather to war we will see which has the better ratings after a short time. I will bet on the weather.
Friday, November 14, 2014
South Carolina Trip
Theresa and I were fortunate in having a short trip to South Carolina for a golfing time and relaxing interlude. The drive down was really good with perfect weather conditions and while we were there the same could be said.We just wanted to get away for a short time and made no plans beforehand.We rented a beautiful condo right on the beach which was fully equipped. Because of the time period the price was fantastic. We had some good golf and time on the beach but the real great thing about our trip was time by ourselves to just relax and eat good seafood.
The people there were well groomed in hospitality and we experienced great service everywhere we went. Theresa loved the shopping at hr favourite stores and I managed to buy a few things myself. For a short time away we did much and loved every minute. On our way home we took a new route up the east coast and experienced one of the best drives ever. It was good to be home to celebrate a couple of B'days on the weekend.
The people there were well groomed in hospitality and we experienced great service everywhere we went. Theresa loved the shopping at hr favourite stores and I managed to buy a few things myself. For a short time away we did much and loved every minute. On our way home we took a new route up the east coast and experienced one of the best drives ever. It was good to be home to celebrate a couple of B'days on the weekend.
Friday, November 7, 2014
Election Fever
We arrived just in time to get a front seat to the mid term elections for Senate, Governor and house representatives.These elections are taken very seriously and there is a dangerous polorization here in the USA. There is the same problem in Canada where the conservative movement with its selfish programs for the rich and large company interests cause terrible gridlock . There is little room for parties to work together for the common good and it is sad to see this occuring. I believe our leadership in Canada tries to mirror the USA and causes a great rift among our more socially conscience members of the Liberal and NDP parties.
The press,radio and TV networks were going non-stop for days and there will be big changes in Washington. We will see those changes in Canada soon afterwords.After seeing this mess here I can just imagine our election later in the new year.
The press,radio and TV networks were going non-stop for days and there will be big changes in Washington. We will see those changes in Canada soon afterwords.After seeing this mess here I can just imagine our election later in the new year.
Myrtle Beach
Therewsa and I decided that the damp ,cool and rainy weather was no good for my arthritis so a trip to somewhere the sun would shine and we could play golf was in order.We drove down a new set of highways and experienced the real South Carolina with its cotton fields an rich farmland.The weather was perfect and traffic at this time of year was practically non existent.
We looked for a place to stay and after looking at several we lucked out with the acceptance of a one bedroom condo. The condo was right on the beach and our sixth floor balcony looked out right down the strip. We played a game of golf without a cart and by the end of the game we felt our work at the gym did little for our sore muscles.By the time we play a few more games we should do better. A golf cart will be in order from now on.
Walking on the beach is Theresa's favourite thing but the loose sand is hard to walk on.We intend to keep as active as possible to make up for the good seafood buffet's that are everywhere.e are only gone for a few days yet it feels like much longer.I am using my idle time completing my third book called 517 Brown. That was the number of our password at the co-op. It could buy everything you needed but of course you had to pay your bill sometime.
We looked for a place to stay and after looking at several we lucked out with the acceptance of a one bedroom condo. The condo was right on the beach and our sixth floor balcony looked out right down the strip. We played a game of golf without a cart and by the end of the game we felt our work at the gym did little for our sore muscles.By the time we play a few more games we should do better. A golf cart will be in order from now on.
Walking on the beach is Theresa's favourite thing but the loose sand is hard to walk on.We intend to keep as active as possible to make up for the good seafood buffet's that are everywhere.e are only gone for a few days yet it feels like much longer.I am using my idle time completing my third book called 517 Brown. That was the number of our password at the co-op. It could buy everything you needed but of course you had to pay your bill sometime.
Saturday, November 1, 2014
Peacekeeping
Canada's 14th prime minister is considered the father of the international, multinational and impartial peacekeeping forces which could be dispatched to parts of the world where the need was apparent. Lester B. Pearson receiver the Nobel Peace Prize 1957 for his efforts called the 'Canadian Resolution" which laid the ground work for United Nations missions.
There are few politicians in Ottawa talking about peacekeeping in far off lands today when they talk of war at home. The peacekeeping philosophy field has been left to the NDP and the Liberals. We were the major force in the UN peacekeeping missions back in the early nineties. In fact in 1995 we had nearly 3500 men wearing the blue beret in several trouble spots and were credited with major success in this field with practically no loss of life and a huge international reputation for our contribution to world stability and peace.
Our military leaders were considered the best of the best in leadership by forming groups made up of men from a multitude of nations. Today we are down to a trickle with 118 people in UN operations and of that group there are 34 military and others. We do make a contribution through our police forces by excellent training programs.
Yesterday the national news reported that our air force was flying over the skies of Iraq and were refuelled by an American plane but their return to base with all weapons unused speaks volumes as there were no targets. The British flyboys report the same thing returning without having any targets. Our 600 man force keeping 2 planes in the sky is costing a huge amount of money and I doubt if it will ever be cost effective. It saddens me to see several million people living in a desert with terrible conditions and we could be of such a vital service in the provision of fresh water and medical services.
There is such a political twist to this mission that it apparent that we as the world leader in peacekeeping fifteen years ago we are now diminished to a level where the UN hardly comes up in conversation because our PM and his foreign policy is completely meshed with and mirrored by the American policy of military force.
There are few politicians in Ottawa talking about peacekeeping in far off lands today when they talk of war at home. The peacekeeping philosophy field has been left to the NDP and the Liberals. We were the major force in the UN peacekeeping missions back in the early nineties. In fact in 1995 we had nearly 3500 men wearing the blue beret in several trouble spots and were credited with major success in this field with practically no loss of life and a huge international reputation for our contribution to world stability and peace.
Our military leaders were considered the best of the best in leadership by forming groups made up of men from a multitude of nations. Today we are down to a trickle with 118 people in UN operations and of that group there are 34 military and others. We do make a contribution through our police forces by excellent training programs.
Yesterday the national news reported that our air force was flying over the skies of Iraq and were refuelled by an American plane but their return to base with all weapons unused speaks volumes as there were no targets. The British flyboys report the same thing returning without having any targets. Our 600 man force keeping 2 planes in the sky is costing a huge amount of money and I doubt if it will ever be cost effective. It saddens me to see several million people living in a desert with terrible conditions and we could be of such a vital service in the provision of fresh water and medical services.
There is such a political twist to this mission that it apparent that we as the world leader in peacekeeping fifteen years ago we are now diminished to a level where the UN hardly comes up in conversation because our PM and his foreign policy is completely meshed with and mirrored by the American policy of military force.
Halloween 2014
Last year Theresa and I entertained 17 spooks on this special evening for children. This year we questioned whether it was worth while to even open the door. However since I carved a pumpkin for the last 55 years I decided to carve two as they were $.88 each at No Frills. I placed them on our door step and waited for the children to come. Doris always likes to see the children in costume so she came for supper and stayed. She told us how important this day was when they were kids.That would be over ninety years ago. I never thought they celebrated way back then.
The evening wore on and still not a child but we could hear some coming. Two dressed up kids appeared at the door and they were cute and polite. Our evening was made. I had a Detroit Red Wings game on but I stayed by the front door. A couple more and all was quiet. Theresa decided to take Doris back home and I was in charge. It was about 8 o'clock.
I went down to my hockey game and Detroit was winning 4 - 0. I was interrupted by the door bell. Eight teen aged kids were there with outstretched arms with bags bulging with goodies. I gave them the bowl and the bowl was no longer full. I returned to the warmth of the fire place and the game and another hit on the doorbell. Four kids and again polite and happy in spite of the rain and cold wind. I decided to stay up by the door and one after the other they came.
Theresa had not returned and our count was now thirty. I found more candies and emptied the boxes into the large tin bowl expecting many more spooks. Two more groups came and our count was 37 a new record for us during the preceding five years . Theresa came home and closed out the lights as there were no more kids on our street but it was a god evening and I loved to see most of the kids with nice costumes and very polite. There was just enough candy left for Theresa to satisfy her sweet tooth so all in all it was a happy Halloween.
The evening wore on and still not a child but we could hear some coming. Two dressed up kids appeared at the door and they were cute and polite. Our evening was made. I had a Detroit Red Wings game on but I stayed by the front door. A couple more and all was quiet. Theresa decided to take Doris back home and I was in charge. It was about 8 o'clock.
I went down to my hockey game and Detroit was winning 4 - 0. I was interrupted by the door bell. Eight teen aged kids were there with outstretched arms with bags bulging with goodies. I gave them the bowl and the bowl was no longer full. I returned to the warmth of the fire place and the game and another hit on the doorbell. Four kids and again polite and happy in spite of the rain and cold wind. I decided to stay up by the door and one after the other they came.
Theresa had not returned and our count was now thirty. I found more candies and emptied the boxes into the large tin bowl expecting many more spooks. Two more groups came and our count was 37 a new record for us during the preceding five years . Theresa came home and closed out the lights as there were no more kids on our street but it was a god evening and I loved to see most of the kids with nice costumes and very polite. There was just enough candy left for Theresa to satisfy her sweet tooth so all in all it was a happy Halloween.
Monday, October 27, 2014
Harvest Time
October 27th and Theresa and I decided to close out the gardens. We have everything out except the carrots, Brussels sprouts and peppers. The Swiss chard is prepared for next spring as I cut it short and cover with mulch and with luck it grows again in the spring. This years crop comes from three year old roots.
Our carrots were excellent this year. We plant them close together and only thin them out when they are big enough to eat. We do not wash or cut them but keep them in a cooler in the garage. They usually last until Xmas.
Our carrots were excellent this year. We plant them close together and only thin them out when they are big enough to eat. We do not wash or cut them but keep them in a cooler in the garage. They usually last until Xmas.
Canadian Nationalism
Canada is a marvelous country when it comes together whenever there is a national crisis.Where natural disasters occur like the floods in the West, mining disasters in the Maritimes or oil rigs in the Atlantic ,Canadians come forth with tremendous support. We fund raise huge amounts of money for events like the earthquake in Haiti. Every Time there is a need there is Canada right in the center to help.We as a country wept for every soldier who was killed in Afghanistan and established the highway of valour.
These last to events were far different . We suffered the loss of two servicemen and that was a tragic thing especially since they were murdered by Canadians on home soil.Our country came together to comfort the families of the murdered men and did a proud thing with full support of the whole country. There was however a very overreaction to these events. We were not attacked by an enemy from afar but from two mentally unstable people who sought their lives meaning by radicalizing themselves to a horrible cause.
We as a country can feel we were under attack and in one sense we were but the bigger picture shows us that there are enough people of like mind that have to be identified and helped. They must be either treated for their mental health or incarcerated because of their danger to Canadian society. In either case it is not being addressed in a successful manner at the present time.Our police and home security are unable to carry out the demands of such a program because of the lack of resources. The government is stating that they have a surplus of money in the billions of dollars. What better use of some of this money to keep us safe and safeguard our civil liberties. Making new laws will not cure the type of cases such as we witnessed during the past week. The lone wolf attacks require measures that require manpower and surveillance.That means monetary commitments to the responsible forces.
These last to events were far different . We suffered the loss of two servicemen and that was a tragic thing especially since they were murdered by Canadians on home soil.Our country came together to comfort the families of the murdered men and did a proud thing with full support of the whole country. There was however a very overreaction to these events. We were not attacked by an enemy from afar but from two mentally unstable people who sought their lives meaning by radicalizing themselves to a horrible cause.
We as a country can feel we were under attack and in one sense we were but the bigger picture shows us that there are enough people of like mind that have to be identified and helped. They must be either treated for their mental health or incarcerated because of their danger to Canadian society. In either case it is not being addressed in a successful manner at the present time.Our police and home security are unable to carry out the demands of such a program because of the lack of resources. The government is stating that they have a surplus of money in the billions of dollars. What better use of some of this money to keep us safe and safeguard our civil liberties. Making new laws will not cure the type of cases such as we witnessed during the past week. The lone wolf attacks require measures that require manpower and surveillance.That means monetary commitments to the responsible forces.
Why...Why..Why
Canadians are asking why we peace loving people are being troubled with attacks on our very institutions of democracy. One does not have to go back very far in history to realize that we have become a clone of the American policy. For years were were known around the world as peacekeepers and even when we were placed in harms way between two warring nations our men wearing the blue beret were hardly ever attacked and killed.
Our government during the last decade have chosen to become a nation of warriors and have trained our armed forces to be aggressive in nature taking on roles where we actively sought and killed the enemy.This began with our involvement in the war in Afghanistan and we lost 145 of our soldiers doing their job and following orders.When they left the country after many years there was partial success with the military action and Canadians excelled in their commitment both on the battlefield and in their humanitarian roles with the civilian population.
Since that time our Prime Minister could not wait to have our Country go to war against a terrible enemy in the Middle East. Everyone will agree that ICIS is a horrible scourge and must be held accountable. The actions of this group of criminals was made possible by the war in Iraq which never solved the problems of the nation. When the USA left Iraq the government was in shambles and permitted traditional tribal enemies to become divisive and the group called ISIS became a rogue unit which could not be controlled by the central government.
This group , using USA military equipment swept over a large area and has committed terrible acts of violence against civilians.They now control a huge area of Syria and Iraq and are uncontrolled by any organized force except the Kurds who are fighting for their lives. The actions of this group have caused one of the largest disruptions of civilians in modern history.The millions of refugees has spilled over into the neighbouring countries causing a great stress on these countries economy and medical facilities. Canada knows how to aid these people in a meaningful way.
Instead of taking a leading role in this crisis with the humanitarian aid we became a tag along with the USA in offering a token military force with a bombing mission which has already been termed useless by military experts unless there are boots on the ground. The enemy has dispersed and now have mingled with the civilian population leaving few if any good targets for the air power to be useful. Canada has given some millions of dollars and supplies to aid the people but it pales in the face of the growing need.
Canada was warned that if they join in the military action there will be repercussions and probably we feel that now.Two misguided individuals, criminals murdered two of our military personnel.It is tragic that two Canadians were murdered by two Canadians and it is fortunate that there was not more loss of life.The man who now is called a hero stood up to this ugly violence and silenced the criminal.. Every Canadian feels for these men and their families and are angered by the actions of these criminals. Our government has to provide the necessary tools to combat the few bad apples and do so without destroying our civil liberties. These couple of incidents will motivate our security system and hopefully combat the growing pressure from terrorist actions in the future.
Canada has little experience in dealing with terrorism because we have had few enemies in the past. The road that we are travelling on now may change that fact. My fear is that the government will use these two criminal acts to overact and cause legislation to be put in place which will curb our civil liberties and change the normal way of a free expression in Canada. These two acts are being used by the government to support their decision to send planes to bomb targets in Iraq and probably Syria. We have been trapped into aiding the USA in their attempt to clean up the mess they created when they left Iraq.
Our government during the last decade have chosen to become a nation of warriors and have trained our armed forces to be aggressive in nature taking on roles where we actively sought and killed the enemy.This began with our involvement in the war in Afghanistan and we lost 145 of our soldiers doing their job and following orders.When they left the country after many years there was partial success with the military action and Canadians excelled in their commitment both on the battlefield and in their humanitarian roles with the civilian population.
Since that time our Prime Minister could not wait to have our Country go to war against a terrible enemy in the Middle East. Everyone will agree that ICIS is a horrible scourge and must be held accountable. The actions of this group of criminals was made possible by the war in Iraq which never solved the problems of the nation. When the USA left Iraq the government was in shambles and permitted traditional tribal enemies to become divisive and the group called ISIS became a rogue unit which could not be controlled by the central government.
This group , using USA military equipment swept over a large area and has committed terrible acts of violence against civilians.They now control a huge area of Syria and Iraq and are uncontrolled by any organized force except the Kurds who are fighting for their lives. The actions of this group have caused one of the largest disruptions of civilians in modern history.The millions of refugees has spilled over into the neighbouring countries causing a great stress on these countries economy and medical facilities. Canada knows how to aid these people in a meaningful way.
Instead of taking a leading role in this crisis with the humanitarian aid we became a tag along with the USA in offering a token military force with a bombing mission which has already been termed useless by military experts unless there are boots on the ground. The enemy has dispersed and now have mingled with the civilian population leaving few if any good targets for the air power to be useful. Canada has given some millions of dollars and supplies to aid the people but it pales in the face of the growing need.
Canada was warned that if they join in the military action there will be repercussions and probably we feel that now.Two misguided individuals, criminals murdered two of our military personnel.It is tragic that two Canadians were murdered by two Canadians and it is fortunate that there was not more loss of life.The man who now is called a hero stood up to this ugly violence and silenced the criminal.. Every Canadian feels for these men and their families and are angered by the actions of these criminals. Our government has to provide the necessary tools to combat the few bad apples and do so without destroying our civil liberties. These couple of incidents will motivate our security system and hopefully combat the growing pressure from terrorist actions in the future.
Canada has little experience in dealing with terrorism because we have had few enemies in the past. The road that we are travelling on now may change that fact. My fear is that the government will use these two criminal acts to overact and cause legislation to be put in place which will curb our civil liberties and change the normal way of a free expression in Canada. These two acts are being used by the government to support their decision to send planes to bomb targets in Iraq and probably Syria. We have been trapped into aiding the USA in their attempt to clean up the mess they created when they left Iraq.
Monday, October 20, 2014
Last Grandchild Under 18
Tomorrow Troy will be 18 years old. Having been the baby of the grandchildren gave him a position of importance as he was spoiled by all the other young ones. We as grandparents always thought that there would never be an end to grandchildren but how fast that managed to be a lost thought. Troy has been a great ending of a wonderful flock of kids who we have had the good fortune to say they were our grandchildren. Everyone brags about their grandchildren but we only bragged when there was really something to brag about.
Troy was a joy from the very beginning. He was very intelligent and as far as physical characteristics go he has excelled in every athletic event he joined. He has had enough knocks while playing hockey, baseball and football. These hard knocks never dampened his spirit and he is as enthusiastic about sports now as he has ever been.
His older brother was his role model and we often teased Troy about slight exaggerations when he described his prowess at golf when he claimed to have a hole in one on a 368 yard hole.It was all in fun because he is also a great golfer. One story tells you about his determination. I have a pool table and Troy really wished to beat me at the game just once. I gave him a game once and he was angry and said I never tried. From Then on over years I beat him regularly but he never gave up. One day he beat me fair and square and that was that. He never even bragged but just stated to Theresa that he won the game that day.
My wish for Troy on this 18th Birthday is that he carry that winning spirit through life and be a bright light in the eyes of all those he meets. He has great talent so be expect great things from Troy. I know that being the youngest gives him the great opportunity to do everything that the previous seven never accomplished.
Troy was a joy from the very beginning. He was very intelligent and as far as physical characteristics go he has excelled in every athletic event he joined. He has had enough knocks while playing hockey, baseball and football. These hard knocks never dampened his spirit and he is as enthusiastic about sports now as he has ever been.
His older brother was his role model and we often teased Troy about slight exaggerations when he described his prowess at golf when he claimed to have a hole in one on a 368 yard hole.It was all in fun because he is also a great golfer. One story tells you about his determination. I have a pool table and Troy really wished to beat me at the game just once. I gave him a game once and he was angry and said I never tried. From Then on over years I beat him regularly but he never gave up. One day he beat me fair and square and that was that. He never even bragged but just stated to Theresa that he won the game that day.
My wish for Troy on this 18th Birthday is that he carry that winning spirit through life and be a bright light in the eyes of all those he meets. He has great talent so be expect great things from Troy. I know that being the youngest gives him the great opportunity to do everything that the previous seven never accomplished.
Monday, October 13, 2014
Thanksgiving Day Get Together
Thanksgiving Day dinner was on Saturday this year as many of our people were available and prepared to come. Seventeen arrived and immediately the party started and the noise level went up accordingly.It was such a beautiful day with the fall leaves in full color and temperature above normal. Of course Doris was here to enjoy the company and the good food provided again by Lynda and Peter.
As I looked around the room I realized that there are no children in our ranks as even little Troy is about to celebrate his 18th birthday. My other thought was that these young people are all about the same age and being family and soon to be family they will have a wonderful life with close friendships forged over the years.
Theresa, Doris and myself were sitting together at the end of the table and as we watched the interaction among these folks we realized that in the coming years there will be a new generation coming along and we will be able to share some years with tiny ones at our get togethers in the future.There was also the feeling that this group are well prepared to take on the world and all it offers as they used their last years getting all learned up at the universities.
I heard some of the young people talking about what we should be thankful for and they had various answers to their feelings, I privately made a short list and the first one was gatherings like this when our family is once again together to celebrate the many events throughout the year. Not all families are either willing or able to share time with their loved ones and they miss one of the greatest gifts of all.
In this time of world turmoil I would love to see some sense of harmony among the warring nations and that we would not once again place our young people in harms way in foreign lands. For all the futility of war leaders continue to destroy property, kill innocent people and destroy dreams for millions of young people. My wish is that by this time next year there will be peace and understanding among the many troubled lands.
As I looked around the room I realized that there are no children in our ranks as even little Troy is about to celebrate his 18th birthday. My other thought was that these young people are all about the same age and being family and soon to be family they will have a wonderful life with close friendships forged over the years.
Theresa, Doris and myself were sitting together at the end of the table and as we watched the interaction among these folks we realized that in the coming years there will be a new generation coming along and we will be able to share some years with tiny ones at our get togethers in the future.There was also the feeling that this group are well prepared to take on the world and all it offers as they used their last years getting all learned up at the universities.
I heard some of the young people talking about what we should be thankful for and they had various answers to their feelings, I privately made a short list and the first one was gatherings like this when our family is once again together to celebrate the many events throughout the year. Not all families are either willing or able to share time with their loved ones and they miss one of the greatest gifts of all.
In this time of world turmoil I would love to see some sense of harmony among the warring nations and that we would not once again place our young people in harms way in foreign lands. For all the futility of war leaders continue to destroy property, kill innocent people and destroy dreams for millions of young people. My wish is that by this time next year there will be peace and understanding among the many troubled lands.
Thursday, October 9, 2014
Turkeys Beware
This time of the year is a dangerous time to be a turkey. Thanksgiving day could be called family day as this is the time when Canadian families make every effort to come together for a turkey dinner and a sharing of time with family and friends. This long weekend enables people to get some much needed chores completed before the snow.It often is the last time people go to their cottages at the lake and close up. Around the house there are many little chores that will be done but the time shared around the table is the highlight.
When we were kids in Cape Breton this was the day when we banked the house. This meant that we piled earth or sometimes saw dust against the home to prevent drafts from entering the cellar. Many homes did not have concrete basements at that time but cellars with earth floors and a place to store the winter potatoes and vegetables.Times have changed now and this is only a memory.
It is a day of tradition and even a slight change of venue or menu causes some to take issue. In our immediate family there are a few of those and they keep the rest of us in order and the day a ceremony like the one last year.
Our family is like many in Canada and become larger every year but geography plays a hand as to who will be present. Up to now we are centered in Ontario and everyone finds a way to attend but soon there will be pressure for some to move for a multitude of reasons. I just hope we will enjoy every celebration like it is the last and have precious memories .
When we were kids in Cape Breton this was the day when we banked the house. This meant that we piled earth or sometimes saw dust against the home to prevent drafts from entering the cellar. Many homes did not have concrete basements at that time but cellars with earth floors and a place to store the winter potatoes and vegetables.Times have changed now and this is only a memory.
It is a day of tradition and even a slight change of venue or menu causes some to take issue. In our immediate family there are a few of those and they keep the rest of us in order and the day a ceremony like the one last year.
Our family is like many in Canada and become larger every year but geography plays a hand as to who will be present. Up to now we are centered in Ontario and everyone finds a way to attend but soon there will be pressure for some to move for a multitude of reasons. I just hope we will enjoy every celebration like it is the last and have precious memories .
Thanksgiving Cleamup
We plant, trim, cut and fertilize all summer to make our yards look great and the day comes when we see the leaves blowing about and realize that we have to prepare for the winter. All the work we performed brought about tremendous growth an now we have to cut the green stuff and prune the trees and pull out the plants that gave us those tomatoes, beans and other vegetables. We are really reacting to our boss, Mother Nature.
If only we as a country could take the same approach and become true stewards of our natural surroundings we would not have this world problem of global warming. I read a book some years ago that said it the near future that there would be international companies that would be bigger than the governments. That time is here. Special interest groups dictate the policies that should be made by governments. Look at Canadian oil interests and understand that they are nearly exempt from environmental oversight and are left to supervise themselves.
Although we as individuals are much more aware of our responsibilities in the sharing of our place on the planet there are huge problems with governance as companies always look at the bottom line and money trumps green policies. There are examples of responsible companies and they find a way to act responsibly and still manage to make a profit. I do not believe we can permit internationals to regulate themselves . Just a quick look at the third world countries where dictators or weak governments cry for development at any cost so Internationals come, profit, make a mess and move on.
The environmental issue is greater and larger than any one party so we must have a world program that is able to make proper regulations and have the ability to enforce them. Unfortunately the UN is undercut by the big seven states and they are also the biggest polluters.
Wishing for a thanksgiving cleanup of the planet will not happen soon so we just have to do our part and enjoy the bounty of the earth and keep our little area green.
If only we as a country could take the same approach and become true stewards of our natural surroundings we would not have this world problem of global warming. I read a book some years ago that said it the near future that there would be international companies that would be bigger than the governments. That time is here. Special interest groups dictate the policies that should be made by governments. Look at Canadian oil interests and understand that they are nearly exempt from environmental oversight and are left to supervise themselves.
Although we as individuals are much more aware of our responsibilities in the sharing of our place on the planet there are huge problems with governance as companies always look at the bottom line and money trumps green policies. There are examples of responsible companies and they find a way to act responsibly and still manage to make a profit. I do not believe we can permit internationals to regulate themselves . Just a quick look at the third world countries where dictators or weak governments cry for development at any cost so Internationals come, profit, make a mess and move on.
The environmental issue is greater and larger than any one party so we must have a world program that is able to make proper regulations and have the ability to enforce them. Unfortunately the UN is undercut by the big seven states and they are also the biggest polluters.
Wishing for a thanksgiving cleanup of the planet will not happen soon so we just have to do our part and enjoy the bounty of the earth and keep our little area green.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Afterglow
Having taken so many hours watching TV and reading all about the decision to go to war I was depleted of reasonable answers to the issue. After special events like sex there is an afterglow which gives you a warm comforting feeling. This event made me sick as I saw so much potential for a great ending and it did not happen. I was disappointed in most of the rhetoric as that house holds a huge amount of experience and ability.
I feel that there could and should have been consensus about Canada's involvement in the mess in the Middle East. We definitely have a role to play and definitely there could have been a point where all could say this is the best course for Canada. The blame has to sit on the Conservative Party and the Prime Minister who never tried to keep everyone centered on the problem by keeping them up to date. Either the PM did not know what he was planning or he did not wish to share, he failed on all accounts. Answers never given to honest questions. Terrible toxic answers to simple questions developed a division that could never be breached.
I believe the PM caused this breach on purpose so it became Harper's War. He sent around notices to all departments some months ago saying he wanted information to be given as Harper Government and not the Canadian Government. This mess is not over and I am afraid that the people who will suffer in the long run will be our men and women in uniform.
There is no way that ISIS can be stopped with bombs and now that the camel has his nose in the tent watch what he will do next..
I feel that there could and should have been consensus about Canada's involvement in the mess in the Middle East. We definitely have a role to play and definitely there could have been a point where all could say this is the best course for Canada. The blame has to sit on the Conservative Party and the Prime Minister who never tried to keep everyone centered on the problem by keeping them up to date. Either the PM did not know what he was planning or he did not wish to share, he failed on all accounts. Answers never given to honest questions. Terrible toxic answers to simple questions developed a division that could never be breached.
I believe the PM caused this breach on purpose so it became Harper's War. He sent around notices to all departments some months ago saying he wanted information to be given as Harper Government and not the Canadian Government. This mess is not over and I am afraid that the people who will suffer in the long run will be our men and women in uniform.
There is no way that ISIS can be stopped with bombs and now that the camel has his nose in the tent watch what he will do next..
Eclipse
Theresa usually tumbles out of be around 8am but this morning when I looked out the window at 5.40am I had a clear view of the eclipse.I told Theresa who was half awake of the clear sky and an opportunity to see a blood moon eclipse she slipped out of bed. There was not a cloud and in fact it was perfectly clear. The eclipse had started and although the moon was low in the sky it was plainly visible
Theresa and I witnessed an eclipse similar to this in Florida but it was not as clear. There is something mystical about events like this.I remember a novel written some time ago how a missionary had saved his life when he was surrounded by angry and dangerous tribesmen in Africa. The missionary , having knowledge of an eclipse spooked the native people to wait to show the power of his god by taking away the light from the moon. They waited, the eclipse came as predicted and his powers were accepted by the native people.
This am Theresa and I were not faced with such a problem but I waited for Lynda to pass by and hoped she had an opportunity to see for herself the natural wonder. This eclipse is called a blood eclipse because when there is a total eclipse the moon looked to have an Orange color. This am it did so we witnessed the blood eclipse . Theresa looked at the clock and decided to have a few more winks and went back to bed. I was still excited so read the Toronto Star and got angry over the coverage about our country going to war.
Theresa and I witnessed an eclipse similar to this in Florida but it was not as clear. There is something mystical about events like this.I remember a novel written some time ago how a missionary had saved his life when he was surrounded by angry and dangerous tribesmen in Africa. The missionary , having knowledge of an eclipse spooked the native people to wait to show the power of his god by taking away the light from the moon. They waited, the eclipse came as predicted and his powers were accepted by the native people.
This am Theresa and I were not faced with such a problem but I waited for Lynda to pass by and hoped she had an opportunity to see for herself the natural wonder. This eclipse is called a blood eclipse because when there is a total eclipse the moon looked to have an Orange color. This am it did so we witnessed the blood eclipse . Theresa looked at the clock and decided to have a few more winks and went back to bed. I was still excited so read the Toronto Star and got angry over the coverage about our country going to war.
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Canada At War
For the past two days I have been watching the TV and the House of Commons and the impact that their decision will have on Canada. I know through my monitoring the House many of the key players in Parliament. During the past two days there has been a better level of civility although as the debate continued there was a lack of patience and some of the players became real and their politics stood out in bold letters.
There was no way that the Conservative Party was going to lose the vote on going to war but the debate exposed the raw side of the people who had already decided before the debate the outcome. The young NDP members from Quebec spoke with a fresh look at the decision of going to war meant. They offered all types of alternatives to military combat and their socialist side stood out in a fine fashion. Their caring for the people impacted by the horrible force ICIS was evident and the way they expressed their compassion was real.
The Liberal arguments became solid in so far as they explained that bombing would not have a positive effect as most of the good targets were already used up. Our little effort with a few F16 and support group would not be missed but would cost Canada a lot of money. History would show that Canada was at it's best when involved in peacekeeping . Our ability to provide a safe place for civilians and providing shelter, food and medical care is the best in the world. The greatest need at the present is the million plus people who are living in Turkey and other countries are in grave need for help. These countries are unable to bear the burden of all these people and Canada could help in a big way.
I am not saying that we should not recognize the horrific enemy atrocities and our need to do something about it but maybe armed combat is not the best way to go.I personally do not believe that bombing this group of armed terrorists will be effective This enemy is more prepared to carry out their game than we are to stop them. They will have to be stopped on the ground and that is a fact. We can bomb forever and maybe lose support from the people we are trying to help but eventually we have to get the people who live there and are impacted by them to do the fighting. We can help them with providing better arms and some air support but until the local tribes stand up as the Kurds are the ICIS will continue to expand and push their agenda on the area.
Our government has made a decision and although I do not agree with the decision I will as a Canadian support our fighting men who are ordered to fight for Harpers war.This war is on the heads of the Conservatives and God bless them if their decision is a bad one.
There was no way that the Conservative Party was going to lose the vote on going to war but the debate exposed the raw side of the people who had already decided before the debate the outcome. The young NDP members from Quebec spoke with a fresh look at the decision of going to war meant. They offered all types of alternatives to military combat and their socialist side stood out in a fine fashion. Their caring for the people impacted by the horrible force ICIS was evident and the way they expressed their compassion was real.
The Liberal arguments became solid in so far as they explained that bombing would not have a positive effect as most of the good targets were already used up. Our little effort with a few F16 and support group would not be missed but would cost Canada a lot of money. History would show that Canada was at it's best when involved in peacekeeping . Our ability to provide a safe place for civilians and providing shelter, food and medical care is the best in the world. The greatest need at the present is the million plus people who are living in Turkey and other countries are in grave need for help. These countries are unable to bear the burden of all these people and Canada could help in a big way.
I am not saying that we should not recognize the horrific enemy atrocities and our need to do something about it but maybe armed combat is not the best way to go.I personally do not believe that bombing this group of armed terrorists will be effective This enemy is more prepared to carry out their game than we are to stop them. They will have to be stopped on the ground and that is a fact. We can bomb forever and maybe lose support from the people we are trying to help but eventually we have to get the people who live there and are impacted by them to do the fighting. We can help them with providing better arms and some air support but until the local tribes stand up as the Kurds are the ICIS will continue to expand and push their agenda on the area.
Our government has made a decision and although I do not agree with the decision I will as a Canadian support our fighting men who are ordered to fight for Harpers war.This war is on the heads of the Conservatives and God bless them if their decision is a bad one.
Monday, September 29, 2014
1200
I have written 1200 blogs and am just getting started. This next few years are going to be good years for bloggers the world over who try to bring issues to the forefront and happiness through sharing ideas and events. Blogging is a discipline that requires one to be aware of what is going on in the environment, the political scene and the good everyday events that make life worth living.
I have been ever thankful that my oldest daughter Lynda started me off in this hobby.It has led me to write a book and I am completing two other books in the near future. Guess I just had to be motivated.
I have been ever thankful that my oldest daughter Lynda started me off in this hobby.It has led me to write a book and I am completing two other books in the near future. Guess I just had to be motivated.
September 29,2014
As I sat down this day to write a blog I had so much on my mind I thought it appropriate to let my mind wander. I am in a state of anxiety about the world and all of it's problems and just how we as Canadians are reacting to the big picture. I know that some don't even know what is happening and could care less. There are those who watch TV and read the paper and say the world is in a mess. Then there are those who really care and wish for a solution . Some pray every day and get no or few answers. Some young people tweet and gravitate to their hero's for an answer.There is every type of response to the mess that faces them every day on the news.
It is no wonder that those who have been close to the action in the military and have seen and experienced all the ugliness that comes with their job of taking orders and see the results take the fast way out and kill themselves. People who are less involved take pills to calm their nerves or have a drink to avoid the reality of our mixed up horrific challenge to the reality of the conditions in many areas of our planet.
The medical crisis is possibly a fight that we will have a difficult time controlling until it hits our shores. It is an African problem most people believe but today with mass movements of people these little germs can travel quickly and quietly and land on our front step. Were this a problem in California, Florida or Ontario there would be a massive effort to get it solved. The amount of money needed to get this invasive problem controlled is tiny when compared to the money to be wasted in the war on the Radicals in the middle east. The planes using smart rockets from their multi million dollar frames cost millions every time they push a button. Some of the smart rockets are costing as much as $25,000,000 each.
We as a nation just spent nearly half a million dollars for a photo op of the European free trade agreement this week . WE wined and dined them and flew them home first class and they did not need the help but it was for a political reason.This year people are fundraising for a cure for cancer, MS and a multitude of other medical conditions. Where are our values ? Why would our governments not rage against these diseases and look for peaceful cures for the many thousands who suffer because our researchers do not have the funds or the facilities to reach a cure.
I have wandered but have not solved my problem of not understanding why we as a nation do not stand up for peace and humanity instead of big business, war and self interest.
It is no wonder that those who have been close to the action in the military and have seen and experienced all the ugliness that comes with their job of taking orders and see the results take the fast way out and kill themselves. People who are less involved take pills to calm their nerves or have a drink to avoid the reality of our mixed up horrific challenge to the reality of the conditions in many areas of our planet.
The medical crisis is possibly a fight that we will have a difficult time controlling until it hits our shores. It is an African problem most people believe but today with mass movements of people these little germs can travel quickly and quietly and land on our front step. Were this a problem in California, Florida or Ontario there would be a massive effort to get it solved. The amount of money needed to get this invasive problem controlled is tiny when compared to the money to be wasted in the war on the Radicals in the middle east. The planes using smart rockets from their multi million dollar frames cost millions every time they push a button. Some of the smart rockets are costing as much as $25,000,000 each.
We as a nation just spent nearly half a million dollars for a photo op of the European free trade agreement this week . WE wined and dined them and flew them home first class and they did not need the help but it was for a political reason.This year people are fundraising for a cure for cancer, MS and a multitude of other medical conditions. Where are our values ? Why would our governments not rage against these diseases and look for peaceful cures for the many thousands who suffer because our researchers do not have the funds or the facilities to reach a cure.
I have wandered but have not solved my problem of not understanding why we as a nation do not stand up for peace and humanity instead of big business, war and self interest.
Saturday, September 27, 2014
Canadian Treasure
In Sydney Mines there is a small concrete shack down on Lockman's beach that holds a whole treasure of history. For years in the early days of the nineteenth century there was a influx of people from the Continent of Europe to Canada and the United States. The communication between the two continents was very slow as it took over a week for the fastest liner to cross the Atlantic and air travel was non existent.
Some men had a dream of crossing
the ocean with a cable that would be capable of carrying verbal and coded messages from the European Continent of Europe to Canada. Men of vision decided to manufacturing a cable that would cross the Atlantic and Sydney Mines was to be the Canadian landing site.
A great ship was built. It was called the Great Eastern and was specifically designed to hold cables of huge length and able to drop the cable in a manner so as to have it safe passage on the ocean floor.The cable was manufactured and the ship built and laying the cable was a huge task with very difficult problems to be overcome as the cable was being laid. There was no mapping of the ocean floor and the mountain ranges were unknown as were the extreme depths.
The men and their ship began the task and succeeded when many said it could not be done. The Great Eastern showed up on the shore of Cape Breton on time and anchored in the mouth of the harbour. A magnificent, standing tall out of the water as it's load had been deposited along the way across the ocean. The last piece of the cable was brought ashore and anchored in a small secure building. This feat was a wonder of the world at the time and shortly after the cable was put into service we had a secure, fast communication cable with Europe.
It caused a revolution in the communication industry but Cape Breton was by-passed as the cable was pushed forward on land to large centers and the landing site was only a shack on the beach. Years later the cable was not used and better ways of communication were ried. As a child I saw the destruction of this historic site and people dug up the huge cable for scrap . There was no thought of making this site a historic place. There is not even a plaque to remember the historic event.
My father and Grandfather lived not one hundred meters from this site and never spoke of the event to me as a child.
Some men had a dream of crossing
A great ship was built. It was called the Great Eastern and was specifically designed to hold cables of huge length and able to drop the cable in a manner so as to have it safe passage on the ocean floor.The cable was manufactured and the ship built and laying the cable was a huge task with very difficult problems to be overcome as the cable was being laid. There was no mapping of the ocean floor and the mountain ranges were unknown as were the extreme depths.
The men and their ship began the task and succeeded when many said it could not be done. The Great Eastern showed up on the shore of Cape Breton on time and anchored in the mouth of the harbour. A magnificent, standing tall out of the water as it's load had been deposited along the way across the ocean. The last piece of the cable was brought ashore and anchored in a small secure building. This feat was a wonder of the world at the time and shortly after the cable was put into service we had a secure, fast communication cable with Europe.
It caused a revolution in the communication industry but Cape Breton was by-passed as the cable was pushed forward on land to large centers and the landing site was only a shack on the beach. Years later the cable was not used and better ways of communication were ried. As a child I saw the destruction of this historic site and people dug up the huge cable for scrap . There was no thought of making this site a historic place. There is not even a plaque to remember the historic event.
My father and Grandfather lived not one hundred meters from this site and never spoke of the event to me as a child.
Thursday, September 25, 2014
The Camel's Nose is in the Tent
Canada is on the verge of being drawn into another conflict in the Middle East. Our Prime Minister is in New York acting like the President of the USA. He is offering all kinds of ideas concerning what Canada will or might do to fight terrorism. These speeches from the PM are fine but they should be made in the House of Commons.We as citizens are entitled to hear announcements about our involvement in war zones should have the support and confidence of the House.
Every other country which has a role to play has had the support of their respecting governments.Why Harper has to make this show of power while away from home soil boggles the mind but past history shows he loves to strut his assumed power.
It would be prudent for any PM to discuss such matters and speak on the world stage with the support of all parties in Parliament. I wonder if Canadian people wish to have boots on the ground again after the last years in the war zone where we lost 145 young men and women and had over a thousand injured. This along with the suicides and mental effects of combat mission on many of our most experienced military people has left most with a bad taste in their mouths .
Canada could be a world leader with it's experience in peace keeping and humanitarian aid were it not labeled as a military combat force. There has never been such a demand for peacekeeping as now where literally millions of people are forced from their homes and left to the ravages of evil gangs and poverty. Let us hope the PM will come home and come clean as to what is on his mind for the future of our armed forces. We have a right to know.
Every other country which has a role to play has had the support of their respecting governments.Why Harper has to make this show of power while away from home soil boggles the mind but past history shows he loves to strut his assumed power.
It would be prudent for any PM to discuss such matters and speak on the world stage with the support of all parties in Parliament. I wonder if Canadian people wish to have boots on the ground again after the last years in the war zone where we lost 145 young men and women and had over a thousand injured. This along with the suicides and mental effects of combat mission on many of our most experienced military people has left most with a bad taste in their mouths .
Canada could be a world leader with it's experience in peace keeping and humanitarian aid were it not labeled as a military combat force. There has never been such a demand for peacekeeping as now where literally millions of people are forced from their homes and left to the ravages of evil gangs and poverty. Let us hope the PM will come home and come clean as to what is on his mind for the future of our armed forces. We have a right to know.
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Black Day For Canada Again
Today the 125 plus world leaders are meeting in New York to attack our greatest enemy ..global warming and environment controls. There are only four world leaders not attending and Harper is one of them. How we came to drop from a world leader to the bottom of the group in a few years boggles the mind. Our Prime Minister is the worst leader we have witnessed since Mulroney and he is again a total embarrassment on the world stage.
The whole world except India, China and Russia will be together with all the heads of government and what a wonderful gathering it will be. Even the smallest country realizes that they are in this together to solve the most dangerous problem . The leader of the UN said it in simple terms. He said that we must fix this problem now because there is no second chance because there is no second world.
Why do the back benchers not rebel and take charge and force this dictator to listen to the will of the people.I am shocked to see the members day after day become puppets reading scripted answers to questions and if there is a second question there is the same answer from the PMO's. Twenty five of the back benchers are not running in the next election and the main reason is the inability for them to be heard even in their own caucus. Holding on to power is the name of the game and it will work for one more year and then there will be a massive change in Ottawa.
I have been watching politics since a child and rarely do we see a government like this. I feel very sorry for the Old Progressive Conservatives as they were an honourable bunch....this crew are anything but..what a pity.
The whole world except India, China and Russia will be together with all the heads of government and what a wonderful gathering it will be. Even the smallest country realizes that they are in this together to solve the most dangerous problem . The leader of the UN said it in simple terms. He said that we must fix this problem now because there is no second chance because there is no second world.
Why do the back benchers not rebel and take charge and force this dictator to listen to the will of the people.I am shocked to see the members day after day become puppets reading scripted answers to questions and if there is a second question there is the same answer from the PMO's. Twenty five of the back benchers are not running in the next election and the main reason is the inability for them to be heard even in their own caucus. Holding on to power is the name of the game and it will work for one more year and then there will be a massive change in Ottawa.
I have been watching politics since a child and rarely do we see a government like this. I feel very sorry for the Old Progressive Conservatives as they were an honourable bunch....this crew are anything but..what a pity.
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Foreign Aid
Canada has always been a generous and open policy country for people around the world who are in need. At the present time the world is in turmoil and there are many hot spots. Canada is contributing aid to several needy countries who are hosting refugees and are being overwhelmed by the numbers and needs.
Our leadership is also over it's head when it comes to foreign policy. First Canada embraced Israel as it's best friend and went overboard in its praise and politically motivated rhetoric. Then comes The Ukraine and with over a million Ukrainian people living here in Canada the government stumbles all over the leadership of that country for political advantage. We even pick many opportunities to lambaste Russia for its actions. Most people do not know enough about the complicated situation in that area of the world. , Suddenly Africa comes on the scene with a dramatic health issue which could be world impacting. The Situation about the kidnapped girls fell off the front pages of the news papers.
What I am saying is we have become a reactionary country when it comes to foreign policy. Our history clearly painted us as a peace loving and peace keeping nation. It seems at this point we have a right wing government that can't wait to get in the thick of world problems without a master plan. We are a small country with a very small military presence and with the latest news of retiring four of our Navy ships we will have to depend on others to supply any off shore activity.
It would be prudent for our government to take a deep breath and decide on a strategy that would suit our needs and ability to carry out our plans for our entry into world conflicts.There should be clear goals that can be supported by the general population and approved by our House of Commons and not a small group of cabinet. This is not America and our PM does not have the authority to the extent of the President.
It is a dangerous world out there and we can only wish for world co-operation to bring about a peaceful solution to the military problems so we as a caring world can get on with the job of making this world a safe and healthy community.
Our leadership is also over it's head when it comes to foreign policy. First Canada embraced Israel as it's best friend and went overboard in its praise and politically motivated rhetoric. Then comes The Ukraine and with over a million Ukrainian people living here in Canada the government stumbles all over the leadership of that country for political advantage. We even pick many opportunities to lambaste Russia for its actions. Most people do not know enough about the complicated situation in that area of the world. , Suddenly Africa comes on the scene with a dramatic health issue which could be world impacting. The Situation about the kidnapped girls fell off the front pages of the news papers.
What I am saying is we have become a reactionary country when it comes to foreign policy. Our history clearly painted us as a peace loving and peace keeping nation. It seems at this point we have a right wing government that can't wait to get in the thick of world problems without a master plan. We are a small country with a very small military presence and with the latest news of retiring four of our Navy ships we will have to depend on others to supply any off shore activity.
It would be prudent for our government to take a deep breath and decide on a strategy that would suit our needs and ability to carry out our plans for our entry into world conflicts.There should be clear goals that can be supported by the general population and approved by our House of Commons and not a small group of cabinet. This is not America and our PM does not have the authority to the extent of the President.
It is a dangerous world out there and we can only wish for world co-operation to bring about a peaceful solution to the military problems so we as a caring world can get on with the job of making this world a safe and healthy community.
Near North Visit
Theresa and I had been trying to unite with our good friends from Sudbury.Circumstances always made it impossible until this week. We decided to share a couple of days together at their summer camp on the West Arm of Lake Nipissing.. We owned a cottage way back in the sixties next to them so this was to be a special reunion. Our friends and ourselves also shared many years close by in Florida so there was some excitement as our journey ended up there in the early afternoon.
The trip up through some of the most beautiful countryside and rugged, rocky outcroppings brought back memories of years when our children were just that..children. As we completed our drive there was that special silence experienced only by people who are fortunate enough to share time at a cottage away from ighways and white noise.
Theresa and I were immediately rewarded by some hospitality provided by our friends and our conversations were noisy and joyful. While there we had some heavy rain so we travelled to the City of Sudbury and visited the University of Laurentian where I graduated so many years ago when it was in it's infent stage. It has grown and sits on a high ground looking out over lakes and the cityas well. A visit to Science North where we were treated to the documentary called Arctic Adventure became a highlight of our venture.
Time flies and as the bright sun rose on Thursday morning we set off for home having experienced what we came for...a wonderful sharing of time with special friends.
The trip up through some of the most beautiful countryside and rugged, rocky outcroppings brought back memories of years when our children were just that..children. As we completed our drive there was that special silence experienced only by people who are fortunate enough to share time at a cottage away from ighways and white noise.
Theresa and I were immediately rewarded by some hospitality provided by our friends and our conversations were noisy and joyful. While there we had some heavy rain so we travelled to the City of Sudbury and visited the University of Laurentian where I graduated so many years ago when it was in it's infent stage. It has grown and sits on a high ground looking out over lakes and the cityas well. A visit to Science North where we were treated to the documentary called Arctic Adventure became a highlight of our venture.
Time flies and as the bright sun rose on Thursday morning we set off for home having experienced what we came for...a wonderful sharing of time with special friends.
Sunday, September 14, 2014
September 14,2014
This morning I woke up at my usual time but expected to see the dreary weather we have been experiencing lately and was surprised, I saw a blue sky.I pick up my paper at 6am and see the streaks of sunshine just peeking above the horizon. Theresa surprises me as she is nor an early riser but today was different as we are having company. Shawna Lynn, our grand daughter is coming from Toronto for a visit before she heads for Australia. Theresa is already busy making ginger cookies for her as they are her favourites.
After a coffee the cookies are baking and the ginger sweet smell invades the whole house. I seek one of the hot ones as they come out of the oven but Theresa waits until every one is out of the cookie sheets before she offers me an imperfect one which is slightly overcooked. It tastes like another one but there is no way as these are for supper with ice cream.
I have contacted the other grand children to come over for a sendoff for Shawna. They all agree that a game of Monopoly would be the best way to get together and talk over the money board. I am sure others will come in to say good bye and wish her well on the journey Shawna Lynn has planned for some time with a friend.
Seeing the beautiful sunshine I go to the garden to clean up some of the produce. This am I see that the green grapes are still hanging on the vine. last year the birds captured every one so I started by picking these grapes. I had enough for grape jelly which I will make tomorrow.I finally picked the last of the yellow beans and more green pole beans. There is no end to the pole beans as we have been eating and supplying the neighbours with them for weeks. Cucumbers and a cabbage completed my picking but now I have the kitchen sink filled and I have to clear that before company comes.
For supper we will have spaghetti with our own sauce made from our own vegetables. Theresa"s cookies with ice cream and the grand children will make for a perfect day.What could better than that?
After a coffee the cookies are baking and the ginger sweet smell invades the whole house. I seek one of the hot ones as they come out of the oven but Theresa waits until every one is out of the cookie sheets before she offers me an imperfect one which is slightly overcooked. It tastes like another one but there is no way as these are for supper with ice cream.
I have contacted the other grand children to come over for a sendoff for Shawna. They all agree that a game of Monopoly would be the best way to get together and talk over the money board. I am sure others will come in to say good bye and wish her well on the journey Shawna Lynn has planned for some time with a friend.
Seeing the beautiful sunshine I go to the garden to clean up some of the produce. This am I see that the green grapes are still hanging on the vine. last year the birds captured every one so I started by picking these grapes. I had enough for grape jelly which I will make tomorrow.I finally picked the last of the yellow beans and more green pole beans. There is no end to the pole beans as we have been eating and supplying the neighbours with them for weeks. Cucumbers and a cabbage completed my picking but now I have the kitchen sink filled and I have to clear that before company comes.
For supper we will have spaghetti with our own sauce made from our own vegetables. Theresa"s cookies with ice cream and the grand children will make for a perfect day.What could better than that?
Saturday, September 13, 2014
Canada The Tail of The Dog
During the past weeks I have watching a tragic series of events that shock me into thinking that little or no good will happen from our governments action in the Middle East or Syria. We have always been a peace keeping nation who were proud of our independent decision making in world affairs. It seems at the present time when the United Stated gets involved in decisions on the international stage Canadians, mainly our PM and of course our unqualified external affairs minister Baird say...ME TOO.
This lack of a policy which should be strictly Canadian could send us into another unwanted situation where we put our service men in danger. The President of the USA had the support of Congress when he made his policy statement but Canada"s Prime Minister will not discuss these important matters with the people who should be making these decisions in concert with or PM. Our house of Commons is being sidetracked. Yes the PM invited the two opposition leaders to the meeting in Iraq but came up short when asked if he would have a discussion with Parliament if more plans of engagement are made after 30 days.
Everyone knows how many troops are going to Iraq from the USA but our foreign minister does not how many of our special forces are on the ground now or when the total has boots on the ground. This one or two man show does not auger well for this country as there is mistrust and uncertainty when answers are not given to people who should know.
Canadian sending advisors to the Kurds should ring a bell as advisors usually become involved in other ways. The thirty day review is troublesome as the USA is not going to remain uninvolved and they are going to ask Canada to to become more involved. I wonder if we really have a plan...a secret plan that will be shared after decisions are made.
Remember the promise by this PM and Conservative Government for open and honest government with transparency.
This lack of a policy which should be strictly Canadian could send us into another unwanted situation where we put our service men in danger. The President of the USA had the support of Congress when he made his policy statement but Canada"s Prime Minister will not discuss these important matters with the people who should be making these decisions in concert with or PM. Our house of Commons is being sidetracked. Yes the PM invited the two opposition leaders to the meeting in Iraq but came up short when asked if he would have a discussion with Parliament if more plans of engagement are made after 30 days.
Everyone knows how many troops are going to Iraq from the USA but our foreign minister does not how many of our special forces are on the ground now or when the total has boots on the ground. This one or two man show does not auger well for this country as there is mistrust and uncertainty when answers are not given to people who should know.
Canadian sending advisors to the Kurds should ring a bell as advisors usually become involved in other ways. The thirty day review is troublesome as the USA is not going to remain uninvolved and they are going to ask Canada to to become more involved. I wonder if we really have a plan...a secret plan that will be shared after decisions are made.
Remember the promise by this PM and Conservative Government for open and honest government with transparency.
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Double Birthday Party
Last Monday we celebrated two very important birthdays. First there was the fifth years old for Glenda and ninety seven years for Doris.They both looked great for their age and as we celebrated the twenty people present gave them praise and gifts. They also received some humours comment from family and friends. Doris who loves a party was a good sport and had her picture taken in various comical poses. She never looked her age but rather a youthful lady enjoying and sharing her time with great nieces and nephews some 80 years younger.
Glenda who was remarking on her first fifty years joined Doris who announced she would be back for her 100 th in a few years.Glenda was also celebrating a recent promotion which was only official a few days ago. So we all had some good reasons to celebrate.
A turkey dinner was served and everyone pitched in to present a great feast.These dinners and celebrations are some of the stuff that keeps our family strong and united and with such a large group be have cause for a celebration every month for sure and more often during some months.We even have one day on Feb 9th where we have three b'days .
As we ended the day with some of our family travelling long distances we talked of the next fan-jam when we would all be together once more.
Glenda who was remarking on her first fifty years joined Doris who announced she would be back for her 100 th in a few years.Glenda was also celebrating a recent promotion which was only official a few days ago. So we all had some good reasons to celebrate.
A turkey dinner was served and everyone pitched in to present a great feast.These dinners and celebrations are some of the stuff that keeps our family strong and united and with such a large group be have cause for a celebration every month for sure and more often during some months.We even have one day on Feb 9th where we have three b'days .
Canadian Leadership
Canada as a country has a unique sense of being. Throughout its young history it has forged a international image of being a caring community of people blended together through common goals and needs.A diverse group of nationalities from every corner of the earth but once landed in this country of accepting multicultural sensibilities there emerges a common Canadianism.Over the years our leaders in the form of prime ministers understood this sensibility and espoused it through their policies and public international forages.
We now have a prime minister who either has not had the ability to understand this sensibility or as yet has not taken the time to discover that secret ability to represent the people of Canada in a respectful and healthy manner.Our prime minister has missed the mark miserably on the international stage by offending our Canadian image in the area of environmental responsibility. He has gone on his own and stated military positions which are directly opposite to most Canadians and has now fought publicly with the leadership of Russia, a country which will in the near future work with Canada to map out sovereignty for the polar region.
This is a small dog deal where Canada is speaking way out of his league.in an angry manner.Better that he speak softly and gain support for Canada's position of influence in world affairs which we lost during his watch. How could we lose a UN vote to sit on the security council to Belgium ? This is an indication for how far we dropped in world opinion because of this Prime Minister.
Our troops are just recovering from a horrific combat mission where our losses were not counted by the deaths alone but the casualties from from physical wounds and mental disorders. Our prime minister without the support of parliament has returned from NATO meetings with the news that we are sending troops back to Iraq. This is a slippery slope and where it ends nobody knows for sure.
On the domestic front our PM has missed the boat on the Aboriginal file , the pipeline debate and a democratic parliament. Overall I feel that our PM has tried to run the affairs of the country by himself and with a small group of yes men has overstepped his ability to be all things to all people. He could still be effective for his last year if he brings reasonable measures to the house and permits all members to have a share of the decision making process. Overall I give this PM low marks as a Canadian Leader and failing grades for his decisions. We are fortunate that his term of office is nearly over and we can once again bring civility and honour back to our democratic government.
We now have a prime minister who either has not had the ability to understand this sensibility or as yet has not taken the time to discover that secret ability to represent the people of Canada in a respectful and healthy manner.Our prime minister has missed the mark miserably on the international stage by offending our Canadian image in the area of environmental responsibility. He has gone on his own and stated military positions which are directly opposite to most Canadians and has now fought publicly with the leadership of Russia, a country which will in the near future work with Canada to map out sovereignty for the polar region.
This is a small dog deal where Canada is speaking way out of his league.in an angry manner.Better that he speak softly and gain support for Canada's position of influence in world affairs which we lost during his watch. How could we lose a UN vote to sit on the security council to Belgium ? This is an indication for how far we dropped in world opinion because of this Prime Minister.
Our troops are just recovering from a horrific combat mission where our losses were not counted by the deaths alone but the casualties from from physical wounds and mental disorders. Our prime minister without the support of parliament has returned from NATO meetings with the news that we are sending troops back to Iraq. This is a slippery slope and where it ends nobody knows for sure.
On the domestic front our PM has missed the boat on the Aboriginal file , the pipeline debate and a democratic parliament. Overall I feel that our PM has tried to run the affairs of the country by himself and with a small group of yes men has overstepped his ability to be all things to all people. He could still be effective for his last year if he brings reasonable measures to the house and permits all members to have a share of the decision making process. Overall I give this PM low marks as a Canadian Leader and failing grades for his decisions. We are fortunate that his term of office is nearly over and we can once again bring civility and honour back to our democratic government.
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