Holiday Time - Yours to Enjoy

Christmas is over and New Years is on it's way.  The holidays continue on for another week for many of us.  The last few days have given me a chance to catch up on some cleaning and take in numerous movies. Yesterday, I made a dinner for a dear friend of mine.  We enjoyed good food, great conversation, and a few glasses of wine.  What a nice way to spend an evening.

Needless to say, today was a very low key day.  I spend most of it curled up on the couch watching movies.  There have been some very enjoyable movies including: I love You Man, The Ugly Truth, The Proposal, and Julie and Julia.  I have to admit this was a very good way to spend a day.  I even had a surprise visit from another firend of mine.

Tomorrow is another free day for me.  Maybe I'll read a book that has been sitting wating for me to pick it up.  The beauty of holidays is that you can do what you like, when you like.  If you decide to do something different, that is okay too.

If you are off this week, enjoy every moment and make sure you do things you want to do.

The Eve Before Christmas

Today is the official start of the holiday season.  Those of us who celebrate Christmas are likely spending time with family and friends.  The children are excited, they've written their letters for Santa Claus asking for their most desired presents, and can't wait for his arrival.  Tonight will be a night that parents will likely struggle to get those little ones to sleep.  The last resort will be telling them that if they don't go to sleep, "Santa will not come".  That one will be guaranteed to work.

Christmastime is also the end of one year and the beginning of another.  There is much reflection of 2009 - with a hope for a better 2010.  For myself, I am glad to see 2009 end.  This past year has been a difficult year.  My father has not been well and that has been a big worry.  2009 also took with it many lives, some close, some acquantances, and some celebrities. 

The next week or so, I will be enjoying some time off work.  I look forward to a much needed rest and spending time with my family and friends.  I wish everyone a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year. In a famous poem called "Twas the Night Before Christmas" Santa would say, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

Province Appears Desperate

In an article in the Globe and Mail, it appears that the Ontario government is tossing around the idea of selling off many Crown corporations in an effort to bring down the $24.7 - billion deficit.  Perhaps, this is just a balloon being floated out to see how much public outcry they receive.

Some of the corporations named are Ontario Power Generation, Hydro One, LCBO, and the OLG.  These Crown corporations have been a money maker for the Ontario government for many years.  In some cases, they have also been a money pit for the tax payers of Ontario.  Many money spending issues have come out into the open over the past several years, putting many of these organizations in a bad light to many. 

The latest one being the OLG and before that the E-Health scandal, commonly known as "Muffingate".  I think instead of selling off these corporations, the government should keep a tighter reign on spending habits and actual benchmarks. 

This appears to be a sign of desperation coming from the Ontario government because they realize what a mess they have made in the province.  I'm afraid that selling precious Crown corporations will only put Ontario in a worse position.

Who Knew Sheep Herding Could Be Extreme

Although, I realize that sheep herding is a talent and an art, I would never have believed what I saw this week.  A group of Welsh sheep herders have made an astonishing video at night of sheep dressed up in LED coats. From an ariel view it resembles a game of computer ping pong with so much more. 

This video was extra amazing to me because my mother's family is from Wales and I have been fortunate enough to take more than a few trips there.  I love the countryside and the people.  My grandmother is gone now and it's hard to say when and if I will be back to Wales again.  I'd like to think I would make another trip over someday.  On most all of my trips to Wales, I had the pleasure of driving up into the mountains to witness a fantastic view.  Things are so green there and the sheep and horses roam freely. 

One time, I visited the mountains with my neice.  When we got in the car and started to drive away, I noticed I had lost my camera case to which my neice replied, "it's with the sheep now".  That was such a funny moment.

I hold many fond memories of Wales and now I have seen sheep herding at it's finest.

House Hunting Continues

Earlier in my blog, I talked about making the decision to look for the right house to buy.  Well, I have been looking at several different homes that have impressed me - but in no way have wowed me.  This past Thursday, I went and saw a house that really tweaked an interest.  Not wanting to make any rash decisions, I called in some family members including my mom, sister, and brother in law to see the house and offer opinion.  I arranged for my second viewing that took place today. 

Not surprising to me, everyone was very impressed with what they saw and felt the house was right.  I'm very happy that I have finally spotted something that I really like.  Now it is a matter of working out a fair price for both me and the people selling the home.  The important thing to remember here is not to get too attached.

A Big Tiger at Night - Baby Tiger in the Morning

Unless you live under a rock, you have heard the stories circulating about Tiger Woods’ many trysts. Does this really affect any one of us? I would say no – unless you happen to be his wife or one of the many mistresses being named in the last few weeks. These women in my opinion are cheapening themselves by going to the media with tell all stories. It is obvious they are seeking fame and money. What a way to become rich and famous – by giving up your dignity.  I don’t understand why Woods’ representatives are even working out negotiations of paying some of these women off. I think the cat (no pun intended) is out of the bag. The gig is up – Elin is well aware that her husband has been unfaithful to her over and over again.

Sources say that this is a tactic to save his marriage, but I wouldn’t be surprised if that dream has already slipped away. I believe it is only a matter of time before Elin takes her money and moves on from Tiger. As far as his sponsors that have dropped him – after the storm is weathered, they will be back. You can count on that. Tiger is classed as the world’s best golfer and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.

Following Up on State Dinner Crashers

Thank you to everyone who participated in a recent poll on my blog. The question was, should the couple that crashed Obama's state dinner be punished?

Results were:

25% of people said - No - the secret service should hire them as experts.
25% of people said - Yes - throw the book at them.
50% of people said - No - leave them alone.
0% of people were - Undecided.

Michaele and Tareq Salahi were the couple that showed up at Obama's state dinner without an invitation.  This situation has put the secret service under scrutiny.

The Loss of Someone

Earlier this year, I wrote about walking in the CIBC "Run for the Cure".  I have been part of a team called Ann's Army for two years now.  Earlier today, I learned that our fearless leader has lost her battle with cancer.  Sadly, Ann passed away last night after just a few months of learning this horrible disease was invading her body yet again.

I worked with Ann.  She was a wonderful lady who always had a smile to share, a sparkle in her eyes, and a kind word to say. Even though she had endured much pain and suffering, Ann kept a positive outlook.

My day was somber as I drifted back and forth in thought of Ann and her family.  She will be sorely missed.

Obama's First State Dinner Proves Easy Access

Earlier this week, President Obama hosted his first state dinner at the White House, in honour of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.  The prestigious event that honed heavy security drew a large crowd of over 300 prominent guests.  Michaele and Tareq Salahi, a Virginian couple were not on the guest list, but managed to slip through the tight security.  Although harmless guests, this breech of security measure has caused quite a stir.  How did they manage to fool the so called security team on duty that night?

It seems, the couple waltzed into the event exuding confidence, fratenizing, and taking advantage of photo ops with the likes of Vice President Joe Biden (featured in the picture with the Salahi's), White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel, Washington Mayor Adrian Fenty, and CBS News anchor Katie Couric.  The funny part is that the Secret Service learned about this the next day after being alerted that the couple had posted pictures and boasts of attending the state dinner on Facebook.  The rumour is that the couple is set to have roles in an upcoming reality television show called "The Real House Wives of Washington".

I suspect someone's job will be on the chopping block over this one.  This definitely puts egg on the face of the White House security team.  As for the couple, they got their fifteen minutes of fame, but may possibly face some kind of legal repercussions.

The House Hunter

I have reached a time in my life when an apartment does not cut it for me anymore.  Giving this idea much thought, I have decided to look for my own home.  I casually started looking at homes last summer and have been addicted to MLS ever since.  I find it facinating how differently houses are priced and feel there are a few that are totally out of line with the ask.  It seems that if you are looking on the lower end, you will get a pretty small, and likely outdated home with a nicer sized yard, or a nicer home with virtually no yard.

Last night, I found just the latter.  Having spotted a very nice looking bungalow with an attractive price, I arranged a viewing.  Just as I thought, the house is set up great and looks very cozy.  I absolutely love the livingroom and the lovely gas fireplace it offers.  The upstairs would be totally fine to live in with not much more than a coat of paint needed.  The downstairs has potential but would need some work and money.  I could live with that knowing I would be spending some significant years there.  All in all, I think the house is good value; however, the near non-existent back yard is a concern.  Most of the back yard was pavement (driveway is shaped like an L), with an apartment building sitting directly behind.  I have a dog so a backyard is definitely on my list of options.  Even nicer if the yard is already fenced in.

On Saturday, I have about seven more houses lined up to see.  I have already checked them out on-line and have a good idea which ones are going to appeal to me.  This home buying thing is a big investment and I am not taking this lightly.  I want to make sure I get the best suited home, at the right price. Each house I see has something good to offer and is helping me on my quest. I am just waiting for the right one to come along.

The Givng Season

Still thinking about going green for the holidays? Good.  This means you are definitely a conscientiousness person and want to help your environment.  The Christmas season is upon us, a time where hearts soften, family and friends unite, and share a time of thankfulness. For many of us, it is holiday season - a break from work, school, and also a time for reflection, as we get ready to bring in a brand new year.  When you think about it, so many of us are very fortunate.  But think about the not so fortunate, as well. 

This year may be a different year for many others who like us - had a fotunate life, and through a sudden downfall in the economy, have found themselves unemployed and fighting to stay on top of bill payments.  I'm amazed at how much this economy has affected others.  The massive job losses have taken their toll in so many ways.  The local foodbanks can't keep up and toy drives are plenty.  People need help every day of our lives and I hope that if you can help, you will consider doing so.

Many studies have concluded that helping another makes the helper feel good.  Having been involved in a not for profit scene, I can tell you that giving time, money, resources, and support to worthy causes has been a very rewarding experience for me. The ones who help bring others up, are essentially creating a better environment for themselves. When you think about a hospital and supporting the purchase of  innovative equipment, you are making that hospital a better facility.  You never know when you or someone you know may need that hospital, and the quality, or quantity of care that hospital can provide.  This is just an example, but you get the picture.  There are things in life that are important.  Those important things need our support and we need them.  It's a win-win situation.

I saw a movie in the past year called "Pay it Forward", 2000.  This story was both touching and compelling for me.  The whole idea of doing something good for 3 people and them doing something good for 3 people, and so on, is so sensible and selfless.  We are in this life together - why not make the most out of it and let others do the same?

Having said all of this, I think that giving is a personal choice and it probably isn't for everyone.  I just hope that there are always enough fortunate that are willing to give to the unfortunate.  After all, we all depend on one another for one reason or another.

Social Media - The New Way to Communicate

The advent of Web 2.0 has started a new phenomenon called social media. The possibilities are endless and the participants keep growing each day. There are so many positive aspects about social media to consider. Some examples of social media are using Twitter, Facebook, or simply text messaging on a cell phone to communicate - although some would disagree that texting on a cell is social media. I see it as fitting under the umbrella because of the ability to get a message to someone non-audibly and without seeing them.  Over the past number of years, this form of communicating has become popular, especially with the younger generation. Sending a status update, tweet, or text message is much easier than dialling a phone number, or going to meet someone face to face.  Using social media techiniques take precedence.  It is quick, very private, and you don’t have to speak a word, in a literal sense.

Face to face communication seems to have taken a back seat.  Has it really?  Are people losing the skill of face to face communiation?  Are we becoming desentized to human contact and actual conversation?  So many questions with many different answers. 

I saw a news story on television the other night about a teenage girl who was addicted to text messaging.  On average, she sent over 3,000 messages each month.  Her parents had no idea just how much she was texting until they looked at the phone bill.  Luckily, they had a plan for this otherwise I think there would have been some pretty hefty bills racking up.  This particular teen seemed to have withdrawn from day-to-day conversation and seemed distant to her family. It was obvious she was wrapped up in her text messaging addiction.

The teen decided to give up text messaging for a week and much to her avail, she discovered that is was getting easier for her to have conversations with others, including her family, she was sleeping better, and her marks went up.  I'm sure there are more than a few examples like this to choose from.  This one caught my attention and got me thinking.  I am also a texter, Facebooker, Twitterer, etc. - you get the message right?  I still use the telephone and meet face to face with family, friends, and co-workers.  I like to think I do have a balance in my social media and pre-social media life. 

Face to face conversation is not easy for all and definitely seems like a bit of an art.  The young need to know it even though they are developing and maintaining relationships through social media tools.  Living in a constant virtual world probably isn't the most healthy thing to do.  Balance is definitely key.

I believe that social media has it's advantages and has helped connect people after many years of not being in touch.  Through social networking sites such as Facebook, old lost friends are finding eachother again, no matter where they are in the world.  Twitter is also a great way to connect to the on-line world.

On the flip, read Why Face-to-Face Communication is Best and decide for yourself.  I think think both are beneficial.  Just like everything, there is an upside and a downside.  Society is on its way to a new way of relationship building both personally, in business, and social media will only get more popular from here. 

Going Green for the Holidays

We are all exposed to the three R's everyday and everywhere we turn.  The three R's consist of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.  There are many ways we can reduce our carbon footprint and cut down on waste.  For example, we have all been using a blue box for many years.  Much effort has been put into reducing the impact of landfill areas by implementing recycling programs and educating the public on the positive effects of being environmentally responsible. 

The holidays are just around the corner with only about six weeks until Christmas.  Where does the time go?  Is it just me, or does Christmas always seem to sneak up on us every year?  This time of the year is normally a retailer's dream.  This year may be different because of the economy.  People are not spending money like they have in the past.  There may be more reasons for the difference.  For example, the reduction of one's carbon footprint continues to be a priority in the media and every day life, and this holiday season is no exception.

I stumbled across an article that talks about reducing our carbon footprint over the holidays.  This is a change from the prominent disposable society we are living in.  It is kind of appalling to learn that approximately 66% of items that we throw away each day could actually be reused.  Why are we still being so wasteful?  Part of this could be that we are a spoiled society and have an overabundance of everything.  The local shoe repair person packed up and left town years ago.  At least, this is the case in my area. I'm sure the larger cities still have the odd place to take shoes, purses, etc. to be repaired. 

Reusing boxes and paper from previous years is only one way we can make a positive difference for the environment.  Earth Savings News suggests reusing holiday decorations, party supplies, and switching up an outfit as opposed to going out and buying new.

There are many useful tips listed on the Earth Savings News website.  Many holiday tips are listed here.  Check them out; you can cut down on waste and save some money for the Boxing Day sales.

Who Let the Dogs Out



Rosie and Lily

 Nothing is more terrifying for me as the last couple of times my three dogs escaped from their fenced in yard.  The fenced in yard provides more than enough running and play area, as well as keeping them contained.  It was my fault for opening the gate and thinking they would follow me to the door of the house.  It is obvious they have no idea about the dangers of the outside world. The first picture features Rosie on the left and Lily to the right.  Rosie and Lily are both Bichon Poo, are two peas in a pod, and as you can see from the picture, are very happy girls. They are a joy to have around and have become great companions.


Daisy

            
 For being so little, they are like bullets and take off like a flash.  They have no idea that the road is a minefield to them.  Rosie is the ringleader and is the one who runs in front and the other two follow.  Daisy seems to be the only one that will retreat relatively quick and return to me.  Lily will full out follow Rosie as fast as she can not knowing where she may end up.  This most recent episode had Rosie and Lily both running across a large field by our house, crossing a road, and ending up at the neighbour's house.  The second picture features Daisy, a Shihpoo, is the oldest of the crew, and sometimes seems like the wisest.  I say this because she did eventually stop and come back to me - thankfully.

As I grabbed a hold of Daisy and picked her up in my arms to go after the other two, Lily stopped in the ditch in front of the neighbour's property and stayed there.  I think she suddenly realized she had no idea where she was.  It was when Rosie decided to come back out from inside the neighbour's property, that they both spotted me and decided to make a run toward me.  I stopped in my tracks and my heart pounded as the two of them crossed the road to make their way over to me.  I feared the worst, and all I could do was focus on them staying on the path and making it back to me unhurt. 

Thank goodness they came toward me and I was able to grab Rosie by the collar and hook Lily up to the only leash I had with me.  I carried Daisy under one arm and Rosie under the other all the way back home.  Lily pranced beside me on the leash.  Into the fenced in yard they went and they were once again safe.  I was the blame for the escape because I opened the gate in thoughts that they would follow me to the door.

I am just thankful that nothing terrible happened to these girls.  They have become part of the family and I don't know what I would do if anything happened to them now.  This was a lesson learned for me (second time) and I will never trust them off lead again.

This Is It

Being an avid Michael Jackson fan for most of my life, I had the pleasure of going to see the "This Is It" movie.  I was unsure how this would be effective, but was pleasantly surprised by how well this production was put together.  It shows Michael's soft side and his tremendous talent.

This footage is like watching the concert without the costumes.  There is a new version of "Thriller", "Smooth Criminal", and "The Earth Song".  You definitely get a glimpse of what would have been.  What a shame all of his hard work was for nothing.

Michael had a say in every aspect of this concert.  His ideas were evident, and he was percise in his music.  He knew every beat and every moment.

The end of the movie hit me like a thunderbolt.  It was a familiar pose that Michael inhabited, but you see the life leave his body as the picture is freeze framed.  The thought came to my mind that undoubtedlly spoke "This Is It".

You can view a bitter/sweet movie review here.

Confused by H1N1

Each year, the flu hits and takes a substantial amount of lives. This year, we have a new flu known as H1N1 that seems to be getting the spotlight. There are conflicting stories in the media about the vaccine, and whether or not it is really going to be effective. I saw a YouTube video involving several doctors who are dead against the H1N1 vaccine and vaccinations, in general. They feel that before anyone submits to getting vaccinated, they should research and educate themselves fully.

An article from the Globe and Mail November 5 is encouraging people to get the H1N1 shot. The shot is not readily available for all Canadians until Christmas time. The hype is strong surrounding this super flu and its supposed antidote. The more focus in the media of the spreading virus and the lack of vaccine availability, the more people are panicking. I know someone who stood in line for 3 hours this week to get their 2 children immunized. I also know 2 other people who received the H1N1 shot and they reported that they came down with mild symptoms of the flu the very next day.

We all know that the pharmaceutical companies are capitalizing each year through drug, and vaccine production. We are so trusting of the drugs they provide. Is the H1N1 virus really more harmful then other flu viruses, or is this an opportunity for our government to team up with the pharmaceutical companies and take the focus off another really big issue? After all, there has been a record amount of scandal in Parliament this year.

It's hard to know what to do with so much ambiguous information floating around. Because of this uncertainty, I will not be taking the H1N1 shot. I will practice good hand washing techniques, eat healthy, get plenty of rest, and hope for a healthy winter.

Find the cartoon image featured in this blog here.

Sweat Lodge Experience Goes Severely Wrong

This article talks about the terrible "Spiritual Warrior" retreat tragedy.

I heard about this perilous journey that people paid up to $10,000 to experience. James Arthur Ray, a spiritual guru, was the leader of this retreat. Part of the journey was to fast for days before participating in the sweat lodge event.

Kirby Brown, 38, was one of the victims that passed away during the vigorous and extreme sweat lodge. How anyone would ignore pleas from people in the lodge when they started saying they could not handle the heat anymore, is beyond me. These people had fasted for days prior to this sweat lodge ceremony, and who knows if they had hydration during the 2-hour event. Ray did not force people to stay in the tent, but he strongly encouraged them to stay for the entire time. The situation is being investigated by authorities as a homicide. This could be the end of Ray, and his multi-million dollar spiritual empire.

I don't feel that there was any thought to the health and well-being for these followers of Ray. Because 3 people died and at least 18 were hospitalized for dehydration and organ failure, totally abolishes Ray's creditibility. He talks about obeying the laws of the universe because if you don't, you will never accomplish what you set out to do. Ray did not obey the laws of the universe in this sweat lodge incident, and there are many paying the price for his obvious carelessness. He ignored the warning signs around him. People were becoming distraught, unable to handle the intensity of the heat. Ray encouraged them to stay inside and this proved to be a tragic error.

Traditional sweat lodges are not intended to kill people, nor force them to endure more than they can physically handle. They are built very carefully and in a way that allows enough oxygen for the participants.

Time will unfold the destiny of James Arthur Ray. I have to question his intent in this sweat lodge, turned death lodge experience. Read more here and decide for yourself.

When Work Quits before You Do

This story touches on our failing economy.

This article really hits home on the generation gap that looms for many baby boomers. Technology has exploded and has taken over the market place, replacing many previously prestigious and sought after career paths. There is no longer a big need for help when creating photography, newsprint, social networking, and public relations. Through technology, virtually anyone can utilize the previous simply by learning a new software. Anyone who didn't jump on the technology bandwagon is certainly feeling the crunch now.

There are many people who have work quit them before they are ready to quit work. It could be because of sickness, or accident, as well as a failing economy. Life depends on money and one better hope they have planned for the unexpected. Unfortunately, there are many who never thought of that. There are also many who did, worked for 28 years toward a 30 year pension, and suddenly found themselves out of employment. Imagine paying into a pension for 28 years and losing that? It's hard to not envision a feeling of devastation in this particular case.

It must be difficult for an older person with so many years experience to submit to a younger boss that in most cases, knows very little about the fundamentals of the business. They have one thing that the older person does not, and that is called youth.

The good news is that all is not lost. There is always an opportunity to start from where you are. It's time to get on the technology band wagon so not to get lost in the dust.

Giving Global Warming the Cold Shoulder

The Globe and Mail had an interesting article recently about pessimistic views toward global warming.

Global warming has been a hot topic in the media for over a decade. Is this once thought of huge threat on our future, no longer a huge threat? Temperatures have levelled off over the past 10 years and people have become desensitized to the idea of global warming. The fight against global warming has raised taxes and and eyebrows amongst the masses. Are scientists, environmentalists, and governments capitalizing off the general population?

I believe in the old saying "Don't Fool with Mother Nature." For years, much of the earth's rainforest's was cut down and destroyed. I remember learning in school that rainforest's were responsible for about 60% to 70% of our oxygen (this number seems to be 40% now). Rainforest's once covered 14% of our earth, and now is reduced to only 6%. I am not a scientist, but common sense tells me that this is not a good thing for the earth. Why did our government allow this to happen, knowing the rainforest's are responsible for turning carbon dioxide into oxygen, as well as being a medicinal provider against deadly disease?

There is yet another statement I have heard many times that says,"we pay for the sins of our fathers." Global warming is the result of mere greed of the lumber industry. It's hard to turn back after the damage is done. The rainforest's are diminishing, and now future generations will pay personally, socially, and financially for this destruction. No one really knows what our future really holds.

A good start to helping the carbon dioxide problem would be to stop destroying the rainforest's and look for a way to replenish critical vegetation. This progress will only happen when the 'powers that be' actually admit their mistake.

Ontario Cuts Funds for Entrepreneurs

The Liberals are not helping the economy get back on its feet. Read this article and see why.

During these omnipresent troubled economical times, the Ontario government has now put a hold on further funding for two potentially stimulating programs. The future does not look bright for anyone in Ontario who is planning on starting their own business. In the past year, thousands of people have been laid off from their jobs because of businesses closing down. We have a financial crisis in our province and many people are not even eligible for employment insurance. The government seems to be turning a blind eye to the problem, shutting many Ontarians out in the cold.

Most job loss has occurred in the manufacturing sector. Certain communities have been hit harder than others. The provincial government has decided to pull the plug and stop accepting any further applications from anyone wanting to pursue education and create a new business. What are the unemployed supposed to do? Because of the funding cuts, there won't even be any research carried out to explore job creation. The unemployment stats are misleading because anyone who doesn't qualify for employment insurance fall off the radar. While the numbers continue to show a decrease in unemployment rates, the reality of it hardly compares.

In light of recent reports of government funded organizations wasting billions of taxpayer dollars on programs that ultimately made zero headway in accomplishing what they started out to do, really is a slap in the face for the thousands of unemployed people of Ontario.
Perhaps we are in need of a change of government in this province, since it seems that their list of promises that remain unleashed keeps growing, and any hope of recovering from this economic downturn continues to diminish.
Anyone still working in Ontario should be very thankful for what they have. I feel badly for the one's who don't know how they are going to make ends meet, or how they are going to begin to start over.

Obama World Peace Prize?

Barack Obama wins a Nobel Peace Prize. There seemed to be much question from the media and public to this prestigious award going to Barack Obama. I have to admit that when I first heard this announcement, I too questioned the decision. My first instinct was that maybe this was just a little bit of grandstanding on the political front. Actually, there was a lot of people around me that said they were wondering what constituted Obama to be this year's winner.

My understanding of the Nobel Peace Prize is that the criteria baseline is grounded in peace attribution. It seems to me that the United States is involved in two wars going on in the middle east. Mr. Obama is actually Chief and Commander of two major wars. What an oxymoron to claims of world peace efforts. Perhaps it will take a little time to end these wars, and the President appears to have strong beliefs in ending war and creating solidified altruistic relationships between the US and the rest of the world.

I think it's great that Obama is using diplomacy as a strategy to achieve strong relationships and understanding within the nations. In reality, we should be living in peace, adapting to the natural order of ebb and flow of life.

Whether or not Obama winning a Nobel Peace Prize was premature, will obviously remain an issue of debate. All we can hope for is that the world does achieve the prize's ultimate goal of obtaining world peace.

The House of Pain

This is what I refer to my most recent undertaking of going to the gym. After many years of inactivity, I have signed up for personal training sessions and have done three so far. Might I mention that I purchased these sessions at a silent auction earlier this year. Not to add insult to injury, but there is nothing silent about the pain that I have endured in my short tenure of going to the gym.

My first session went pretty well. It was a light workout combined with a consultation with my trainer. We talked about diet, my goals, and what I expect to gain from these sessions. I was sore the next few days, but went on to my second session without reservation.

The second session included a full leg workout, which I felt instantaneously. I walked out of the gym feeling much like a gumby doll. The rest of the night was interesting. It was difficult to walk up and down stairs and my muscles seemed to have a mind of their own. The next two days can be described as "full and total pain." On a scale of one to ten, I give the experience an eight. I could not even get out of my car and wished I had a crane there to lift me to an upright position.

I was supposed to go in for another workout post second day and ended up calling and re-scheduling. My trainer told me to soak in a tub of Epsom salts and to come back the following day. He assured me that we would not be working on legs, but instead would focus on upper body. Today I feel stiff and sore, but nothing compares to that first leg workout.

Knowing that going to the gym will boost my energy level, improve wellness, and eventually make my clothes fit better will keep me motivated. As time marches on and the workouts add up, I know the soreness I feel now will lighten.

I will forge on and keep this routine going. I keep thinking of an old saying that I've heard many times before - "no pain, no gain."

Analysis: 'Blackface Jacksons' embarrassing to Australia

This article talks about racisim in Austrailia.

I've never been to Australia, but have always been intrigued by movies, pictures, and stories I have seen. I picture the men as rugged, strong, and ready to take on a crocidile in the outback. After reading this article, I am a bit embarrassed by the ignorance that seems to be prevelant in this nation. A former Prime Minister stated that, "Australians pride themselves for their egaltarianism", but apparently, this is for white people only. This statement seems ambiguous to me and should be disgarded.

Good for Harry Conick Jr. for rejecting racial slurs. I'm sure that the Jackson family would not feel this skit was funny, especially because of the recent loss of a dear loved one. It is too bad that Michael Jackson could not receive the respect he deserves, if only for what he gave mankind through his music, dance, creativity, and altruism. I don't understand this 'old school' behaviour of this group in Australia. This is disrespectful on so many levels, and I'm glad this act has been exposed. Conick Jr. is a native American and displays how much progress many Americans have made in the segregation of different race.

It is important to treat others with respect and dignity. The colour of our skin does not decide our class or worth. We are the same inside and no one is better than any one else, even though there are many who would beg to differ. There is nothing funny when we joke at the expense of others.

This situation only stresses that Australia is still a very young nation that needs to grow up.

CIBC "Run for the Cure"

On Sunday, October 4th, I had the pleasure of walking in my third ever "Run for the Cure" fundraiser for Breast Cancer Research. This was my second year in a row walking for a team called "Ann's Army", a team made up of OPG employees, and their family, and friends. Both years, we have won the corporate award, rasing the most of any organization involved. One year I walked for a team called "Freshly Squeezed", a team sponsored by Norfolk General Hospital's Ontario Breast Sceening Program. The "Run for the Cure", is held all across Canada and has helped raise millions of dollars for breast cancer research. This event, started out small and has grown by leaps and bounds as the years have rolled by. Each year, many more people are affected by this horrible disease and we are all there for one reason or another, but most of all for wanting to help find a cure. In our location alone (Simcoe, ON), there were over 1,400 participants. It was amazing to see a sea of pink walking through the streets of Simcoe.

I've met so many lovely people through participating in this event. Last year, I brought my Bichon Poo Rosie, who stole many hearts there. A wonderful lady who walked with me wanted to walk Rosie. I have to say she did a fine job making Rosie heel. We all enjoyed our 5 km walk. This year, I brought Rosie again, along another addition to the family, another Bichon Poo who is called Lily. A friend of mine was at a dog show a few weeks back and picked up a pink doggie stroller for me. Since I had the two dogs to deal with, I brought the stroller along to make things a bit easier. What a conversation piece this was indeed. The local paper asked me if they could take our picture, it was great. As it turned out, the same lady from last year wanted to walk Rosie again (I think she really likes Rosie), and to top it all off, a girl I work with wanted to walk Lily. It was nice to see Lily heeling with her as well. There wasn't a dog for me to walk, so there I was walking an empty stroller for 4 km. We put the girls in the stroller for the last kilometer because they were tired, and they were as good as gold. I am so thankful to a co-worker who snapped the featured picture. I would not have had an epic picture if it wasn't for him.

I hope to be involved again next year, and I look forward to again witnessing the heartfelt spirit that is definitely a big part of this event. I'm proud to be a part of such a passionate group of supporters and survivors.

Sick Kids 'superstar' fundraiser under a spotlight

This blog is in reference to the following article:

Volunteers and Smoozeneers

After reading this article, I finish week 3 of my tenure as volunteer campaign coordinator for the organization I work for, heading up their internal charity campaign. I can't help but feel deflated in my efforts because it is stories like this that ruin it for the rest of us. The work I am doing is not compensated monetarily, but rather by fulfillment because of a deed from the goodness of my heart. All of the money raised through our campaign will go directly to charity. This does not seem the case for this donor generating giant.

Michael O'Mahoney recently resigned as head of Toronto's Sick Children Foundation. Since 2003, he has earned in most years $620K (U.S.) annually. This is more than your average specialist. Last year his annual income was slightly lower, only making $574K. The best part of this story is that O'Mahoney resigned and was given $2.4M as a severance. While O'Mahoney was in power at the foundation, expenses increased 31 per cent annually and donations increased 18 per cent. This does not sit well with your average volunteer or donor. O'Mahoney boasts raising $489M for the foundation while at the helm. The truth is that he did not do that alone. He oversaw a huge staff that executed large fundraising programs. It would be impossible for any one person to raise that kind of money alone.

A Lack of Transparency

The trust may well be broken for the people who support Sick Kids. This is mainly because these claims are coming out after a significant amount of money is spent on administrative costs. Charitable organizations strive for transparency. It is obvious this particular one has a deficit in that area.

It's not to say that a person working in the not for profit sector should not be paid for their hard work, but perhaps a more reasonable annual salary is in order. One can not go around asking people to donate their time and money and then pocket a substantial amount of the donations.

This is likely a wake up call for many organizations who are competing for charitable donations. It is typically thought that spending 20 percent of the donations is a reasonable amount, but depending on the circumstances, could be hard to achieve. An organization is lucky if they have a large 3rd party fundraising group that raises a ton of money for them and expecting very little in return. Sick Kids definitely would have opportunity to cultivate that with a donor database of 300,000.

Giving money to the right cause, used in the right way, is a very vital part of communities. Let us not get discouraged, let us learn from this.

Many Thoughts to Ponder

After almost two years, I am back on the blogger. This next series of blogs will be dedicated for my Social Media class. I look forward to being a regular blogger again, as well as reading my other class mates blogs.

My blog won't have a specific theme but rather, I will focus on many different topics as I experience them, or see them in the media. After all, there are so many thoughts to ponder.

More coming soon...