REAL MEN DO COOK

And help clean the house and look after the children. In our modern world, couples need to share the responsibilities. Many hands make light work so they say. In my world, my husband started doing the majority of the cooking about 20 years ago. About half way through our marriage! He likes to do the grocery shopping- the food part. I still need to get all the other household items. He concentrates on food! Paid chefs are usually men while the cooks in the home are usually women. Having a good cook at home does spoil it for other cooks. The taste of Adolph's food is just very good and flavourful. I try not to judge when I eat elsewhere but I taste the difference. Expecially the sauces and soups! Right now we are having some fun with his new blog- http://granpalovestocook.blogspot.com/  He cooks but does not type very well so he writes the recipes and his thoughts while I type up his blogs. Team work just like the average day. He cooks, we eat, then I clean up the kitchen! Yes real men do cook and do their share in their marriage, relationships and partnerships! If you look very closely, they also reap the benefits of a happy home.

EVERYONE IS UNIQUE

People always amaze me. Same colour, same country, same religion. Yet, there can be differences which make the individuals unique. Siblings from the same family can develop different views of the world as they leave the family nest. There are always common threads of good or bad. Compassionate or cold! If you were to describe yourself what would you say was unique? How do you stand out from the crowd? I think I am unique because people still tell me how nice I am! I actually was a lot nicer in my youth but got stepped on! So I am nice with an ability now to have people back off if they bug me in " a nice way". Always be nice and friendly but with a self-assurance if I am not being mean than I do not expect anyone to be mean to me or anyone else for that matter. Do you like the people that say I always like to say what is on my mind whether someone likes it or not! " I am always so open minded!" Yes, but the good answer is not to be too open minded or your brains will fall out! Tolerating, accepting differences takes effort and the ability to sit back and truly listen. Then if part of your uniqueness is to love your own company- there are those solitary activities that bring joy! Or have a pet-they always love you!

A POSTCARD FROM MADEIRA (MACHICO) PORTUGAL

Portugal is one of those beautiful European countries. Madeira is one of the islands. Many people in the Toronto area originate from there.
In 1985, Adolph's cousin Carolina visited this beautiful area sending the family these postcards.

Lillina liked to travel. She had recently visited us in Canada sending her love and thanking my mother-in-law Concetta for her hospitality. " Ancora grazie per la bella ospitalita."

The postcards depict a fishing village and the street between two villages. Some street!

If you want a postcard featured here, email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address so you can send me a postcard.



DOUBLE CHECK YOUR WORK-IT COULD PAY OFF

It was not a lot of money but while checking a pile of lottery tickets recently I rediscovered why it is a good habit to double check any activity. Little amounts and one free ticket were found but worth the checking. Even writing this blog is grounds to check and review what is written. I discover the use of the same words in the same paragraph, for example. There are times I am making a point so do use the same words in my whimsical blogs. Sometimes my sentences do not make sense when I read them again. In the hospital all diagnostic images are read by two clinicians for accuracy. Nurses double check the medication count. Editors are fierce but keep all of us on our toes. My worst critic is my husband who likes to point out errors especially if I try to write a sentence in Italian! Of course, the math used to balance a home account. If it looks like I have too much money left over after doing the bills, I check again. Then the suitcase needing all the right items for a trip. Lists and checking! That's why vacations in Canada are good because we know we can find the same stores across the country where the same item costs the same price in case anything is forgotten! Like one of my favourite stores- Shoppers Drug Mart. It has the same layout whether you are in Ontario or British Columbia!  Too much checking though can be part of an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder so be wary not to cross that line!

SNOW-IS CANADIAN SNOW DIFFERENT?

I don't think so. Snow is snow! Apparently there is less snow everywhere across our great nation this year. For those of us who need to shovel driveways or drive long distances, it is not a bad thing. There are so many ways to describe snow- wet, slushy, white, dirty, and heavy. Some snow is good packing snow to make a snowman. There is a light snow, heavy snow and a blizzard- batten down the hatches! The Inuit in Northern Canada are supposed to have many words for snow but actually they have the same number as English. It is the Sami People in Europe who have over a hundred words to describe the white stuff. Winter pictures with snow are beautiful. My younger daughter was married in the winter so has some outdoor shots with the snow in the background. Walking in the snow burns more calories. All those sports that need snow- skiing-downhill and cross country, snowboarding, sledding, toboganning! Well burn those calories! Playing with children in the snow- love those snow angels! Catching snowflakes and eating them! Snowball fights! Snow forts!

One of my favourite snow activities is to sit in a warm room at a lodge or even my family room in the suburbs, watching a light snow come down, explaining how beautiful while I read or knit, then sip a hot beverage such as coffee or hot chocolate periocially, all cozy! Do you have a favourite snow activity? Or do you just tolerate it until Spring?

FAITH KEEPS US GOING

Do you have faith? In God? In Life? In loved ones? Is it in us? Around us? Do others have faith in us? Like the church steeple that can be seen from a distance, it is always there for us to embrace. Faith means believing in something unseen and untangible. Yet it feels so real!

NANA SAYS KEEP CHILD'S PLAY SIMPLE

Each generation of parents wants their children to be brighter than the one previously and larger than life. Are computer skills at two years old really necessary? Exposing children to books, crafts, creative opportunities are the fodder for learning. Toys with bells and whistles are good too but not the only things to be available.While playing in the snow with one of my grandsons recently, I followed his lead. He likes to dig and play with his roller- his wheelbarrow. It is his machine. He was transporting the snow from one place to another. We were engaging in imaginative play. The tools- shovel, plastic wheelbarrow and snow. We were labelling, counting and using the materials at hand. Hum! Skills that could help with a lifetime? Later he wanted to play with a ball of my wool. He took it around the house- made tunnels and walls. Even Nana was on her knees crawling under his tunnel in play! Simple play. There is always the old joke- the child likes the box a toy comes in better than the toy itself. By talking with childen- language development; grammar; math- how many cookies on your plate?; science- look at the squirrel eating-where do you think he lives or observing the night sky watching the changing of the moon;  listening to music and reading from favourite books- are skills readily available to any parent rich or poor. Playing with children allows the opportunity to develop a relationship as well a teaching moment. All those little moments really are important! What simple play activities do you do? How do you engage with the children in your life? Do you have other suggestions for simple play? Following each child's interest and lead can enrich the experience.

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER

Is a wonderful English saying. Means different things to different people. It does not mean showing up late to every party, dinner or social function, however! Recently, while at a dinner party one of our friends started to take piano lessons after inheriting his mother's piano. He gave us a little rendition and hopes to play better with two hands.Looking forward to the next time! It made me think about many people who stop trying to do something new because of age, children, health or whatever excuse comes along. Actually we are told if we learn new tasks, language, or skill it is good for our aging brains! I still struggle with trying to speak Italian by doing verb exercises at an elementary school level. Any patient that speaks Italian, I try to communicate with them. Even a few words in other languages- like Spanish, French, Farsi, Russian, Chinese- help to stimulate my brain.  My husband has a second cousin who take up marathon running in her 30's and just competed in a big race in Ottawa- now in her 40's! My cousin Roy, in his retirement has embraced photography which is evident by the beautiful and varied pictures he takes. Some are so amazing- National Geographic watch out! Some people go back to school and earn a degree or diploma. After retirement many people start a home business. For example, I have some corner wooden shelves bought at a craft sale made by a retired gentleman who took up carpentry and loved it! So is there something you want to do? No matter the age, just get started! I can not draw well but  a few years ago, I bought a book on drawing for beginnings. I practice occasionally. I will not be a great artist but I have been learning the techniques, the discipline of drawing. It helps with my crafts! If I can do it, then so can you! What are you waiting for? Better late than never!

A BIRTHDAY REFLECTION

After the Happy Birthdays and cake, my birthday is always a time for reflection. When I was a little girl, I always cried on my birthday as I did not want to grow up. Due to family problems, I viewed the adult world full of pain. Yesterday on my birthday, I did not cry. The older I become the more I actually appreciate life and all that I have. My life did not turn out like I wanted. All the hard work in my 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s did not bring the rewards that others may experience from an equal amount of hard work. Yet I do not feel bitter or angry. I try to determine what more I can accomplish in whatever time I have left on this earth. How can I be there for others in my life? I live optimistically that I too will reap rewards of travel, a secure retirement, and good health. No matter what life throws at me, I will pick myself up and stand on my own two feet. I am glad just to be here with my loving husband, children, grandchildren, family and friends. This blog, for example, has given me the opportunity to write and look for photo opportunities to use as symbols or to illustrate a point. Renewed discipline is good- a goal to blog every day. It is challenging. Exercise- walking and finding time to do my weights and other stretching! Finishing a book project, a craft project, and some home rennovations keep me going! My work! A purpose to get up every day! Do I really like getting "older"? Not really! But what is the alternative! Sometimes when I look in the mirror, I ask " who is that old lady?" When did she arrive? Oh birthdays, a time for reflection, renewel and relief!

A POSTCARD FROM CALGARY ALBERTA CANADA

Calgary is one of several Western cities I have visited. With over a million people, it is the gateway to the Rockies.

The Calgary Winter Olympics in 1988 was an amazing and successful event. Do you remember Elizabeth Manley's skate and Eddie the Eagle ski jumping?

The Calgary Stampede has been an annual competitive event for which the city is famous. Cowboy hats can be seen everywhere. Cheers of yahoo prevail! Calgary Flames hockey team has made the city proud. The Calgary Stampeders as one of the Canadian Football League teams have won a Grey Cup or Two. I even have a tee shirt to prove it! The Saddledome is the place to go for sports!

Since I have family there, visits have been made to this lovely city. Postcards have been sent by me but not received. The weather is different than other areas of Canada. Warm weather can occur in the winter and snow flurries in the summer! Calgarians just say it is typical Calgary weather! The Western hospitality is warm and friendly. Even at the Calgary airport not only welcoming people but some of the best souvenirs of western garb- hats and cowboy boots!
If you want a postcard featured here, email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address so you can send me a postcard.

CONTAINERS IN OUR LIVES

How many ways do we "contain" ourselves? We compartmentalize areas of our lives. Our personal, work, acquaitance and friendship can reveal a different approach about us. Some people share everything about themselves all the time while others keep work and home separate, for example.

There are containers for organizing drawers. Companies that organize closets with shelves and racks. Solutions is a fun company with so many ideas to "organize the home". How many Rubbermaid bins do you have in your home with "Stuff"? Are your closets labelled in your mind with a theme? Clothes, utility, pantry, front entrance! Dollar Stores are full of cheap plastic containers large and small.
Even the expressions. " A barrel of Laughs! " "Don't box me in!" " I have a full plate right now!" " Contain yourself!" " My cup is running over!"
What about those storage bins? Even a TV show about storage wars! Bidding on someone's things!
We make gift baskets. A fruit basket! A basket of apples! A bushel basket at the Farmer's Market!
Every drawer in my house has little containers for things. Keeps the drawer neater!
The witness box in court contains the witness. Houses in the Suburbs are often described as Boxes- they all look the same! A wooden box-the casket for the end of life! A carton of milk or juice! A case of beer or pop or water!
If contained helps us manage the many areas of our lifes. A purse! A knapsack! A piece of luggage! Our dresser or desk drawers! A book shelf! A personal diairy! An address book! A photo album! A computer file! A file cabinet! The list could go on and on!
I wonder do our containers help us feel in control? We can find things quickly that we need daily. Why do we have a need to contain?  What do you do with the containers in your life? Oh yes all the containers, baskets and whatever come in a variety of colours- many of mine are purple! Perhaps that could be another blog- the colour of containers we chose or not! Now try "To think outside the Box!"

STARTING A WINTER GARDEN

If you are missing the outdoor garden this time of year, starting to grow a little pot of herbs for your cooking can satisfy a part of that need. Plants generally add a calm feeling to any room. Oh, serenity! It is a good time of the year to prune or culivate or even buy some new ones for the house. Do you have a good window ledge in your kitchen? It could hold smaller plants. It is still on my bucket list to try to have a small greenhouse or a sunroom attached to my house to allow for a year round mini-garden. Of course, with a good Southern exposure. When it is cold outside, it gives hope that it will pass. Do you love plants? Which kind? Do you feel it helps with mood? Do you give plants as gifts?

NANA SAYS BE KIND TO WORKING PARENTS

Do you have family members or friends with young children who work? It is a challenging road to take. Those with Nannies in their home do not struggle like the parents with Day Care or Babysitting pickups. What to do with older children who do not want anyone to watch them, yet by law are not old enough to be left alone, and better yet left to watch younger children. I remember the rush home after work to meet the Day Care pickup time. My mother had relocated to another province and my mother-in-law worked fulltime. Both could help occasionally with a Saturday night sleepover or if Mom was visiting watching the children while I went out but were not available as regular backup. Grandparents can play a significant role if close to their adult children. Not taking over the care but being available to alleviate some of the pressure. Letting a child be with loving family while other tasks are accomplished. If a parent can grocery shop child free, so much more is accomplished. Having a special day with grandparents is a treat. One of my brothers and his wife have two grandchildren every Friday: everybody wins- children have fun and the adults get to be like children. The parent knows the little ones are in loving hands. Adolph and I assist our children as needed- their support team. Of course, if the girls need some home cooked meals during their work week, yes you guessed it, he is always willing to accomodate. The grandchildren are establishing a relationship with the older generation. Do you help support your children? Do you go the extra mile as needed? Letting little ones share your life while you are helping the family system is always rewarding. If you have responsible adult children, they will not abuse the help either. What do you do to help your children? In return, how do they help you?

MID JANUARY BLAHS

Well yesterday was supposed to be the most depresssing day of the year. Christmas bills in, winter dragging, second 5 day week-you get the picture. Actually I find this year to be very busy with new responsibilities and projects I do not feel the blahs but pressure trying to find the time and energy to accomplish what needs to be done. For example, a 30 minutes time slot to clean the utility closet became a 3 hour job over the weekend as there was more sorting and sifting through boxes than anticipated. However, the closet has never been cleaner and some clutter has found a new home!! Winter energy is different than the summer. Does the decreased sunlight have such a significant effect? I think so. After dinner, it is difficult to get motivated to do things- anything. If I start watching the news, I can be lulled into a little nap. Trying to stay awake past 9 p.m. is a challenge. So I have time to be used that just need an energy boost! I try to set daily goals with manageable tasks. Being a morning person, I actually got out of bed at 5:20 a.m. this morning. The good news is the sun is returning to us so perhaps my nocturnal tiredness will be diminished by the light. Or maybe I will buy a big sunlamp! Are you feeling the blahs? Or are you just too busy to think about them?

GRANPA LOVES TO COOK/ IL NONNO CHE CUCINA

Well finally after years of taking pictues of food and trying to convince my husband Adolph to share his cooking skills and talent, his blog is underway.
http://granpalovestocook.blogspot.com/
Why that title? With the little grandchildren on the scene, Adolph has made homemade lasagna for several baptism lunches. Everyone loves one of his barbecue meals. His hamburgers are a hit with his sons-in-law.
When Adolph cooks, he puts his heart into his food preparation. He learnt from his mother who learnt from her father. So men in Adolph's family have been good cooks for generations.
Although in Canada, he still makes many of the dishes that are typical of the Ciociaria area in Italy. Lazio is the region. Frosinone is the province.
We also welcome recipes and thoughts from all who read his blog. As we all know, food is universal. Sharing and eating meals together is what can hold families and friends closer to each other.
So I am happy the leap has finally occurred. Oh yes, this has been on my bucket list- to help my husband share this amazing part of himself. Hope you enjoy!

A POSTCARD FROM VATICAN CITY

Adolph and I went to Rome for our 25th anniversary. The year previously Natasha had visited Italy. All of wrote postcards to my mother-in-law.

In the summer of 1995 Natasha went to Italy with her friend Ami. She wrote to her Nonna.
"Dear Nonna. Ami and I are having a very good time. We love it here! Everyone is treating us very well. Cassino is very beautiful and Rome is even more beautiful. Everything here reminds me of you and your house. I miss you very much and I will tell you everything when I get home and you better be taking care of yourself. Love Always, XO Tasha"

May 1996- "May 13/96 Hi Mama, All your familys says hello and send their love. Rome is busy with people and traffic. Lots to see and do so we'll try to take it all in. See you soon. Love, Barb and Adolph."

Then we visited Vatican City."Hi Mama, Saluti dal Vaticano. The pope says to say more prayers and watch less Soap Operas. Ciao-Adolfo and Barbara."

Vatican City's  Saint Peter's Square is absolutely breathtaking. It is always a place that can not be missed when visiting Rome.

Ciao!

If you want a postcard featured here email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address so you can send me a postcard.

DO YOU HAVE FRIGGATRISHTKAIDEKAPHOBIA?

A fear of Friday the 13th! Frigga from the Norse God for Friday and Triskaidekaphobia- fear of the number 13! Of course- phobia which explains it all. Some people that do not appear to be superstitious will present themselves today. We even had a patient that would not be discharged on Friday the 13th! Our first apartment in the Married Student's Residence at the University of Waterloo was on the 13th floor- 1303 was the number! Are you worried today? Do you have any fears of the number? Don't worry there are only 3 in 2012, I counted them! So if 3 is a lucky number for you then you are okay!

SELF DISCIPLINE

Knowing when to stop- enough to eat, drink, or physical exercise takes discipline. Self-discipline means denying ourselves of activities that may bring fun sometimes. Getting up and exercising in the early morning means less sleep. Being the designated driver means no alcohol! Not reacting to every negative statement takes self-control. Even with an impulsive nature, everyone can learn how to stop and be disciplined. Sometimes by putting up our guard- i.e. I will not react to the situation but assess it adequately has helped me through many tenuous times! Learning everything is not about you! Walking away and not fighting! Deciding on which battles are worth the effort! Not having the need to be right can give a different perspective. A chance to view everyone's perspective and really analyse the views of all concerned. Are you self disciplined in your life? Have you been proud of yourself for maintaining calm? Do you recognize people in your life that are just negative or have a need to prove others wrong? What do you do? Can you leave it and just smile to yourself and walk away?

NANA SAYS DO WE CHILDPROOF A HOUSE OR NOT?

While perusing one of the major Canadian papers, I read a little advice feature by an architect and interior designer. The question was was from a couple who had to share their living room with their two year old. They wanted some decorative suggestions on how to organize the toys. A designer then gave a rant about not believing in childproofing a house. Children need to learn the word no, adapt to the rules, discussed table etiquette and suggested they go to a manners class. She did suggest some beautiful boxes to slid under furniture but letting the child know when toys are not in view it is not a playroom! It seemed strange to me that she sort of answered the question about organizing the toys but then became an expert on appropriate child behaviour and parenting. Anyone with young children or young grandchildren, might roll their eyes like I did and said oh yeah! Well I am a great believer in childproofing a home and and establishing appropriate rules for the age of the child! I have a gate on my entrance to the downstairs so my little toddler grandson wil not take a flyer. I could stand with him teaching him the rules about not trying to go himself but childproofing is safer! My cute little elephant collection that was on a low shelf has been put away since my granddaughter arrived on the scene- breakable and well the parts could be a choker! Children when going through that oral stage of development put everything in their mouths so out of reach out of mouth! If fortunate to have lots of space, there can be an area in the house where children can play freely. For my girls and my home there is a big area in the basement. However, the children in my life have a spot in the Family Room- little table and little chairs and we do sit and read in the Living Room. If a creative project, my granddaughter can colour at the Dining Room table. If it is breakable children have a way of breaking it. To me childproofing is more about safety and creating an environment where loving acceptance occurs. I have been to homes where the child's bedroom is a Magazine showcase and the child is only allowed to sleep there. One toy at a time! Don't mess! Is it emotionally healthy? No, not to me. After children play, they can learn to tidy up. Put your boots/shoes by the door. Put your clothes in the hamper. These house rules come with time. Little children as they grow can take on more responsibility! Oh yeah until they hit their teens! And boy does everything change! What do you think - to childproof or not? What do you do?  But do you find it interesting someone in design is also an "expert" on parenting! The little advice piece did not say how many two year olds were in her life!!!!

JANUARY BIRTHDAYS

For our family, January has an abundance of birthdays. My daughter's two brothers-in-law, Adolph, my son-in-law, my niece, mine and even the Duchess of Cambridge-Kate! Birthdays always mark a number in our lives. Some are more significant than others. When you can be left alone without a babysitter, drive, stay out past midnight, drink, go on a vacation without your parents, get married, have a baby or retire. Some people want to stay 29 forever, but as their children age up it to 39! Numbers like being 10- no longer a single digit, 21, 25 or my- turning 30! 30 is huge because it officially means you are still young but can not make excuses for not growing up anymore. 40 was a hard one for me, yet 50 meant very little! So sometimes as we go higher, there is a joy of still being here. 65- many people retire. 75- we gave a big party for my mother-in-law on that birthday. My Dad reached 90 and is still going strong! One sister-in-law celebrated her mother's 100th a year ago. There is always some kind of celebration- small dinner, big party or at least a little cake! For children it is always a moment to be the centre of attention! What is it about blowing out the candles and making a wish? No matter how old, we always secretively make a wish! Doesn't hurt, does it? So what will my wish be this year? Well I can't tell you or it won't come true! Happy Birthday! It must be someone's birthday today somewhere! So enjoy!

EMBRACING A CANADIAN WINTER

Helps the winter to pass. Since I have started to walk to work and play with my grandchildren in the snow, I find the season passes quicker. Ice skating- on indoor rinks or outdoor ponds, skiing, snow boarding, or sledding and tobogganing down a favourite hill are activities enjoyed by young and old. Ice fishing and snowmobiling are rural necessities. One of our family members is trying to make an outdoor rink in their yard so I may even try ice skating again- but now need to buy a helmet so I am a good role model for the little ones. The garden being dormant gives time to pursue the indoor tasks. Closet cleaning, an exercise routine, writing projects and sitting reading a book or working on a craft are some of the things on my calendar. Do you find yourself trying to find enjoyable pursuits? This time of year also brings the boredom factor. The busyness from the Christmas season behind us often leaves a void. A good slap in the face from the cold can be invigorating! Needing to bundle up and embrace the season gets the juices flowing! Are you fed up with winter already? Are you trying to find ways to use the time? Remember like all the seasons it is always with us. It will pass quicker if you approach it with some enthusiasm! Now get dressed and go outside to face the cold!

A POSTCARD FROM YELLOWKNIFE NORTH WEST TERRITORIES

My brother Rob and his wife Donalda have moved to various locations in Canada for jobs and adventure.
Several years ago, just before they moved to Yellowknife in the North West Territories in Canada, he sent me this postcard to give us his new address. 

Dated August 26, 2003- " Hi Ya'll! Just got back from a vacation in Yellowknife, NWT, I had to take this picture of an Inuit woman standing up to pee. Must be a new thing!?!?There are so many lakes, boats, airplanes and Huge fish I might never come south again...Except for maybe a trip to Maui. Winters are long and cold but there is a lot ot do. I guess they don't want people to become bored and depressed.Our computer is down for the count as it caught that nasty worm and won't turn on. I've had to resort to actually using the written word. We went to look for a place to live and a job for me ( Rosie already had a job to go to) We found both in about the first hour after we arrived. I think there are a lot of jobs in Yellowknife as everyone has left to work in the Diamond Mines. Things are quite busy. Busy in that small city. But most stuff is done at a snails pace. There are " gang takeovers". But they are so lazy it takes them about a week. We'll be up there for October 1st. Just in time for the 8th snowfall. The arts and crafts up here are just unbelievable. It can be very expensive but once you get to know some of these folks you can get things a lot cheaper.
New address.
Love to all!! Your little brother, Rob!! Small Printing...eh?"

During their time there, I was fortunate to receive some of the crafts. Beautiful colourful mugs, a clock and cards. Most people would probably prefer to visit in the summer to enjoy the atmosphere of one Canada's beautiful northern locations. Their stay was an unforgettable experience.

If you want a postcard featured here, email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address so you can send me a postcard.

A FUNNY CHRISTMAS WREATH STORY

So one day during the recent Christmas holiday, Adolph had just left. I hear this stratching noise at the front door thinking it is just Adolph making a funny knocking sound to tease and annoy me. So I quickly opened the door to find a grey squirrel hanging on my Christmas wreath stealing one of the pinecones! He leapt hurriedly and ran away with his find in his mouth, also leaving two other pinecones on the front step! I had been wondering why my beautifully made wreath was coming apart in some places! My girls thought it was like the scene in a Chevy Chase movie where there was a Squirrel in the Christmas tree. Sometimes life can imitate art!

MY OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Will come down this weekend. We always wait until after January 6 which is Christmas for the Orthodox Christians. Adolph, being of Italian descent, would celebrate Epiphany-January 6 or L'Epifania as an important Christmas event back in Italy. La Befana, the old hag, after hearing from the 3 Wise Men about the Christ Child goes door to door to try to find him and leaves candies & goodies for all the children in case the child is there. When my girls were little, for a few years, a local Italian club would have a Befana party/dinner-dance. Adolph and I would take the girls and my mother-in-law. The kids loved it as they would get a small stocking filled with treats and little toys. It helped to lengthen the Christmas season for them as well as partaking in the custom of the season. Of course it is my husband's birthday today. Many times at that Befana event, it would occur on his birthday so he had the pleasure of everyone singing to him and wishing him well. We would always win the flower centerpiece for the birthday closest to the event! Many newcomers to Canada bring new customs and also join in our customs. Do you partake in other customs besides the traditional Canadian Christmas and New Year? Or have you created some new Canadian traditions to add to your childhood ones? If so, tell me about them!

BLAH, BLAH, BLAH

You either love this saying or you hate it. I find when I am trying to tell a long story or inform someone about a situation, blah, blah, blah is a wonderful shortcut. For example, if I am talking to one of my daughters who have heard me talk alot and know the themes I talk about, well you get it it cuts to the chase! So I guess I love it because I use it often in my personal conversations. It can be said quickly or slowly which changes the meaning slightly. It is all in the tone. I was trying to determine when it came on the Canadian horizon. How long has it been in our culture? Does anyone know where it originated? Has anyone been credited? If we went on a famous quotations site would we know? So- love it or hate it, it's here to stay!

DEDICATION

Is a good word. The dictionary tells us to dedicate- to devote to a special task or purpose. So dedication is the act or an instance of dedicating. A book or award can be dedicated to a person or cause too. We often say that someone is very dedicated- to their job, family, team, country. If it is for a good cause dedication is seen as virtuous. However, history has taught us some acts of dedication have been bad. Really bad! So we will focus on good dedication. I have been thinking about the activities where I dedicate my time. Do they have purpose? Are they meaningful? Are they necessary? Dedication takes time and discipline. It is an easy word so the talk is also easy. It is the walk- the ability to keep going that weeds out the truly dedicated from the rest. In our modern society it is often credited to those who lose weight, exercise regularly and try to look pretty! What about the rest of the activities that make a fine life? Writing a book, painting a picture, sculpting, taking photos, honing parenting skills, baking for your church or family gatherings, volunteering for a community cause, keeping a well run home for family and self and the list could go on. Some acts of dedication are done quietly by the people involved. There is no hoopla, just daily attention to the details of life. So if you think about dedication- to what do you dedicate your life? What brings meaning? If you wrote a speech or a book or won an award- would you dedicate it to someone?  Has anyone ever dedicated something to you? Today I was dedicated to write a blog before going to work an hour and a half earlier than normal. What are you dedicated to do today?

NANA SAYS DRESSING FOR WINTER TAKES EXTRA TIME

Bundling up the little ones in cold weather can be a challenge. Snowsuits are bulky. I always think of the scene in The Christmas Story where the little boy can not move. Hats and scarves are often pulled off as soon as they are applied. Good snow pants that can be pulled up quickly help. Having blankets in the car to put across the children helps if there is resistance to keeping zippers zipped. I always have extra scarves, mitts in the car as well. Parents have the daunting task of extra clothes.So in case something is forgotten in the daily rush, there is a little backup plan. The difficulty comes with the resistance to dress and undress several times daily. I remember battles at the Day Care with my children. Being tired and just wanting to go home tries anyone's patience. Then the older children! On my walk to work there is a High School across the street and I have observed this teen generation. Running shoes and no boots! Spring jackets instead of winter ones. Hats- I guess they are not cool. Are red frozen ears cool? Times have not changed as I remember classmates who dressed inappropriately for winter! There is always the front door mess of boots, coats, where to dry wet mittens? Perhaps some leniancy until Spring. Taking deep breaths and assertively tackling the activity works. Often having warm layers on your children help too. My grandchildren are typical of the struggle faced by most parents. Observing their behaviour has reminded me what a daunting task it can be. How do you manage the winter clothes? Have you found a way to make a game about it? Of course if one lives in one of the colder areas of Canada, it may be less of a struggle! You could just say, go ahead and freeze! Keep the door open as the child runs back in for warmer clothes!

THE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH

I bought these souvenirs in Rome on one trip years ago near the Chiesa della Verita- The Church of the Truth. The large one in the wall tells visitors to put your hand in and if you tell the truth you can pull it out. If you lie, the mouth will close on your hand. It is amazing how many people just take pictures and do not put their hand in the mouth. Why would honest people worry? It is not a lie detector. Just a myth and a fun thing to do. What is it about the truth? Philosophers for centuries have debated this moral virtue. Don't lie, tell me the truth is a Mommy saying! Whose truth? Whose side of the story? If you are a psychopath, you could put your hand in the mouth without a fear! Being truthful means to be trusted! Once someone has lied to us, it is funny that anything we are told after is always questioned, even if in our heads and not out loud to the person! It is such a noble virtue that most really truthful people will admit to an occasional little white lie! Do you like my new hair style? Yes, it looks so good on you! Did not want to hurt the person's feelings! To little children- you did a good job on making the bed- even if it is lumpy! Did not want to hurt those little feelings! We can cushion our words so they do not come out as a lie- white or otherwise! As long as you like your hair that's all that matters! Did you do your best in making the bed- then it is a good job! Do we always want to tell our spouse or friends the truth about their annoying habits? Do we will really want to hear about ours?  Is not telling being dishonest or just considerate? We sometimes say, I did not tell you the whole story! So are you ready to put your hand in the mouth? Would you risk it? The truth and nothing but the truth very hard to do all the time. The truth is I try my best to be as truthful as possible without being unkind. Sometimes I just keep my mouth shut! That's the truth!

PLAN FOR THE FUTURE BUT LIVE FOR TODAY

It is always important to make plans. Like putting money in the bank for children's school, weddings, retirement, a first home helps many dreams come true! Knowing how to live for today is also equally important! Enjoying the present moments! By maintaining daily habits like exercising, eating well, keeping your mind alert, connecting with loved ones as some of the ways to live in the moment and plan for the future, your life can have the necessary balance. The concept of integrated living can be the way to "plan for the future but live for today"! Do you find ways to enjoy today as well as plan? Can we enjoy the season we are experiencing and plan for the next one? While working, preparation for retirement occurs- just look at those deductions on your paycheque? What are ways you enjoy the moment but still are able to plan?

DO THINGS HAPPEN IN THREES?

A new year so thought I would blog 3 blogs today. No it will  not be my norm but the whole idea of threes occurred to me. We often will have bad news and wonder if there will be three. We say well that's two, wonder what the third one will be? If we look for linkages in life we often find there can be three- with a stretch! Sometimes it is just one! Good things can happen in 3 or just one1 Do we really want the winner of the huge jackpot to win three times or is once just good enough? Where did the notion of things happening in three originate? In Christianity- the father, son and holy ghost- 3. Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus- 3. Even business has more layers than 3. A triangle has 3 points! A pregnancy is divided into three trimesters! Many dinners have 3 courses unless you are Italian then the sky is the limit! Does the number 3 mean anything to you! Is it lucky or unlucky? Have you had things happen in 3s? Anyway my blog happened 3 times today but it was intentional-  no mystery there!

A NEW YEAR'S LEVEE, HOW CANADIAN EH?

Although historically other countries had new year levee, Canada is considered the country that observes this old custom of receiving people for a special occasion on New Year's Day. A representative of the government will meet with local residents to welcome in the New Year. In Toronto this year it will be on January 2 which is a Monday. Many communities across Canada are hosting New Year's Day levees! Are you going to one? Do you know the first one in Canada was actually hosted on January 1, 1646 by the Governor of New France?            /
                                              Levee is a French word meaning to raise up.
So go figure, voulez vous aller a Levee maintenant?
Happy New Year one and all!

THE NEW YEAR, A CHANCE TO RENEW

Many people have new year resolutions. I prefer a renewel of the important areas of my life. Continue to exercise and eat well. Continue to write, to photograph, to craft, to spend time with family. Setting achievable goals, often little daily ones bring more success than trying to believe a change in a day will make a new person out of me. If it is change then the effort is much harder and often too tedious to prevail. The winter is a difficult time for many people. Although there are sports enthusiasts, too many just barely tolerate the season. So resolutions during the cold months may be harder to keep. For example, taking up jogging is much easier in the Spring. Deciding to eat more salads is good in the summer since warm winter soups have more calories and are comfy food. Cutting back to reduce weight is more challenging in the Winter. Why do people make resolutions anyway? When did the idea actually start? Do you know many people who have really kept their resolutions? Perhaps since the hoopla is gone after Christmas, we must have something to keep us going. A resolution- a thing resolved on or an intention! Do you have any resolutions! Or are you renewing your membership in this beautiful life? What do you think?