JULY BROUGHT SOME FUN, WHAT WILL AUGUST BRING

As July winds down with cooler temperatures in our area but warmer temperatures on both coasts of Canada, time to reflect on what the wonderful month means. July means summer regardless of the hot or cool weather. With abundant rain, the garden has been growing profusely. Needless to say it is a jungle out there. My yard with its paths and gardens-only grass in the front is blended. The growth in the paths has been a challenge. Spraying with various weed killers including vinegar and some hand picking of weeds has barely kept the paths clear. Luckily no major family events where I want the yard to look pristine- oh yeah that's a fantasy, my gardens never look pristine. I wonder if there is a way to air brush them like the celebrities get down when they have a photo shoot. Then there the opportunities for day trips, reading in the sun, walks and barbecues. The little pleasures in life that bring memories. Having visited some attractions- the Zoo and Pioneer Village- with the kids and grandkids was just fun and lots of photo opts that can still be used. Some areas of the inside of the house are clearer and organized. Now if the new printer could be installed correctly then I would be on the way to a good August.

 

                                                                                                                                                                    

 

Some reflections can only be seen in pictures! I really did  not do anything over the top or amazing but I do feel I did something. I feel peaceful and accomplished- a nice way to be. Oh summer time and the living is wonderful! How has your July been? Did it go by too quickly or did you have some good times too? 

NANA SAYS FRESH SUMMER FRUIT AND VEGETABLES GIVE OPPORTUNITIES TO INTRODUCE NEW FOOD

 

With all the fresh fruit and vegetables of summer, it is a good opportunity to introduce or reintroduce them to a child's diet. Many children can be "picky" eaters and won't try new foods. Picking fruit with children can be a fun activity. We have many raspberry bushes so our little ones come along with us with their own container to pick the fruit. Since there are no herbicides, they can be eaten without being washed if necessary. Of course, as we all know children will eat right from the bush anyway. Going to local farms with activities for children and letting them buy some fresh items to eat later can be fun. Fresh veggies and dip add another element to the meal. One of my favourites is  peaches and chocolate ice cream. So adding fruit to a favourite ice cream can be another way to have children and even teenagers eat more. Platters or bowls of fruit that are washed and handy to eat can entice family members to try them. Even if the child says he/she does not like something, often seeing other children or adults eating something can be inviting. Especially if an older child likes something, the little one may follow suit. Texture can be an issue for some people. So fresh, cooked, mixed in with other ingredients are ways to include fruit and vegetables in meals. Time to add salad to a child's menu. Let the child build their own salad. Rip the lettuce, add some small tomatoes, slice a cucumber and whatever other ingredients would be wanted. Have the family salad bar handy. If the child just wants the lettuce or cucumbers, so be it. Yes adding some fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries to it makes it fun. One of my strategies with my grandchildren is to have activities that are tiring and at the end of those activities the platter of good food is accessible so they naturally reach for whatever is available- they're hungry.  What really works is not asking a child what they want to eat. Just prepare the food and present it and don't nag. You are a role model. So seeing family members eating foods that are new can be the lesson. Of course a cookie with a glass of milk works too!

CANADA ABOUNDS WITH SUMMER FLOWERS

Summer flowers abound everywhere. At the side of a lake.

In the garden.

Wild flowers in the garden.

Even on the water.
Taking a camera and capturing images everywhere. Saving the best ones for years of pleasure.

Pots on city streets.

Aren't they pretty?

What summer flower images have you captured in your jaunts around town or the country? What would life be without flowers? My cousin Roy takes beautiful floral pictures. You can find his photos on Flickr photos stream if you want to see more Canadian flowers.

JULY 28 1914- THE START OF WORLD WAR ONE-DID WE LEARN ANY LESSONS

As the world begins to reflect on the 100th year anniversary of the start of World War One, are there lessons to be learnt. Actually throughout recorded history, wars and battles have been part of the human conscience. It was supposed to be the war to end all wars. Somehow it was not. For Canada and Canadians it was a conflict that defined us and the real idea of nationhood was upon us. Although fighting with the British as we were a member  nation of the British Commonwealth of Nations, our efforts and role stood out. Perhaps as historians remind us of the patterns of what leads to the major escalation of WW1, we can fast forward and wonder if the current conflicts in troubled spots could have the same impact. . We do not reflect on war to glorify it but to learn from its lessons. However, we must be poor students as the modern conflicts resemble the old ones in too many ways. For this blogger, I always think of the little children who deserve a chance to have a life. Hopefully with the United Nations Council, international dialogue may be helpful to try to bring a truce in the Middle East and Ukraine. Remember to teach little Canadians about Canada's place in the world and to support our Armed Forces today in their role in the world. Do you have any thoughts about this anniversary? Do you have family members that served in the war? Every town and city in Canada has a memorial site in their town square to remember those that did not return. How about your town? Do you try to see who served from your community?

SUMMER BRINGS A VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES IN ONTARIO

Making a day last by being busy with enjoyable activities is a wonderful way to fill a July day. Summer  presents many opportunities to take short jaunts or long extended vacations depending on what is on the agenda. A leisurely picnic at a favourite spot.

Of course with a picnic lunch made by Adolph.

Visiting a local winery and purchasing some white and apple wine.

Finding more barns and farms for pictures in my travels!
Oh summer time and the living is full of photo opts for later discussion and posts.
How is your summer going?

SUMMER FUN AT THE COLLINGWOOD FARMER'S MARKET

The Collingwood Farmer's Market was a quick visit during an early July jaunt to the area to be with the kids and grandchildren. Collingwood Ontario is a fun tourist area with summer activities and skiing in the winter. The local people are friendly and accommodating which is so typical of small town Canada. Adolph had a good look around while I bought some butter tarts and sausage for the barbecue later in the day. I love local history and always try to add to my knowledge of Ontario history. A local photographer- George Czerny had a booth with some photo cards and his book. I bought two which are good captures of the shipyards and some of the history of Collingwood's part in shipping on the Great Lakes.

I took a picture of Adolph with the ladies that made some hot sauce in the Trinidadian style.

It is good but very hot and spicy-adds kick to our food. Adolph has posted his trip to Collingwood.
Check it out! Oh the picture of the ladies is on that post!
http://granpalovestocook.blogspot.com

WHAT WOULD THE WORLD BE WITHOUT THE WHEEL?

Do you ever look at a large wheel with spokes with interest? The centre could be you or your family! The spokes the different areas of your life all connected but independent. Your skills! Your faith! your knowledge! Your life! On a larger scale like a community with the families, businesses, services all linked but separate- the town, the city, the street at its centre. When we look at the universe there are similarities too. Our galaxy with the sun at the centre! Did that inspire someone to make a wheel with spokes? It is interesting to see how one concept is used over and over. We learn from history that the invention of the wheel changed many things. Going round and round- wagons, irrigation systems, water moved to make a mill grind wheat and too many items to mention. How many things even in modern times use the wheel in varied forms! Even our lives are like a circle which is a wheel by another name? We often say life comes full circle. Rarely giving little thought to ancient themes or items that we continue to use today. Each generation thinks they have invented everything. But remember we do not have to reinvent the wheel!

HYPER VIGILANCE IS CONNECTED TO PREVIOUS EVENTS

Any trauma has the potential of causing hyper vigilance in a person. So what is it? It can be seen as over reacting to small events and worrying there could be an escalation to something more serious. For example, there has been an accident in the family so for awhile every time someone leaves the house there could be a worry it could happen again. Or the myth things happen in 3s! Not really but there is the fear to wonder what is next. If there has been a string of bad luck, waiting for the next thing. Time to stop and really catch all the things that go right. It is connected with anxiety. So subconsciously the fear is there and gets escalated to the surface connecting to a previous event causing anxiety in the present. Learning to identify what events continue to resurface in your life helps to deal with the present moments. For example if there has been a car breakdown or flat tire on a major trip or highway. Almost an accident. What to do! Well go to a car shop, service the vehicle before the trip. Buy some spare parts like fuses and a fan belt- a decent spare tire. Have a container of oil in the trunk. Do the little things that could help in an emergency then go for the trip and enjoy living. Understanding that events in our lives bring back the feelings of the events. Part of who we are! Sometimes the images of the event will play like a movie in our heads. Eventually the movie goes away but can reappear periodically. Fears connected to events in childhood can be analysed as an adult. Remember little events for children can bring bigger weight. As a child it is hard to be rationale about them but as adults we can restory the story about the event- identifying the facts and looking for the strengths we had in coping. To be human means we have been affected by life! Remember we all cope differently and what might be a trauma to one person, may not affect another the same. Your events belong to you. Just because someone thinks- oh that was nothing, listen to what happened to me, does not mean it was not difficult for you. Or well everything is okay now so what are you worrying about? Fears and worries remember can come out of us without even thinking so accept that there can be unwarranted fears in our lives but new coping and strategies to diminish the feelings helps us to live. Have you had some hyper vigilance in your life? Have you identified the events that have affected you?

NANA SAYS SOMETIMES A TRIP TO YOUR HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT IS NEEDED.

Emergency services are always there for any issues affecting our children.  We are lucky in the GTA to have the Hospital for Children in Toronto. Experts in every field connecting with other world experts to provide wonderful assessment and care. Local hospitals providing the treatment and assessing if  a specialist is needed. Sometimes avoidance for a trip to an emergency department is considered because "of the wait"! Well go anyway as it is the place to be and assessment does take time. Let the medical team make the decision if the child needs to be there. Consider this if  you arrive and several health care professionals get a very serious look on their faces and move very quickly it means there is a problem. In Canada, we triage as a 1 to 5. So if you are a 1, in you go very quickly. 4-5 there is the fast track area to try to get the patient out in under 2 hours for those minor concerns like stitches . With many urgent clinics with sophisticated diagnostic resources being built, there is another route to immediate care. But be prepared as a trip to the local hospital may still be warranted. Parents- no matter how careful and safe you may try to make your child's life, accidents and emergencies do happen. Don't beat yourself up! You are an important part of the health care team. Knowing your child and medical history is paramount. Perhaps keep a photocopy in your purse or wallet with that pertinent information. When grandparents are babysitting, copies of the health card and information would be helpful too. So everyone is on the same page. Remember your local hospital is open 24/7! Don't hesitate to use it!

LIFE IS LIKE A GAZEBO!

Gazebos are one of those backyard or park or historical building items on the lawn. Usually

 an octagon shape, it is multi sided. Air flows through but it could be shelter from the rain.

Nice spot for wedding or family or special occasion photographs. Usually made of wood, it stands the elements well. Seen as pretty and not always the most functional piece to have, it adds character to the spot wherever it is located. It can be painted white like the one at the retirement home near me. They hang pots of flowers on their gazebo. A nice one by the lake at Niagara on the Lake-if angled correctly a photo can have the lake in the background. It just sits there but attracts attention from the visitor. If lucky to have one in your yard, it can be a quiet place to read a book with your favourite drink to sip. Entertain guests or play with the grandchildren. It can be a retreat from the world or invite the world to join you. Do you have a gazebo? If you don't, would you want one? If so, what would you do with it?

A LAKE AND A CANOE-OH SUMMERTIME

To be by a lake, or in a canoe, listening to water fowls make their music! Country and all its glory! Summertime, don't you just love it?

DO LITTLE THINGS SLOW YOU DOWN?

Little things can slow us down. A car repair! A temporary health issue!  Water in the basement! Well you get the picture. Stops us and makes us be creative in how to cope! Humans are amazing and finds ways to adapt. Often there is no real choice. Life has changed and so we must go forward. But things never happen on a good day. We are all busy with life and things to do and places to go. Coping, adapting, adjusting easy words but sometimes hard to do the walk. Then there are vacation weeks that come to an end and the need to return to work and whatever waits- in the email, in the voice mail and direct contact. Why is it when  colleagues are away they do not care how busy you were? When returning from a vacation, aren't we often met with how busy it was, so hectic, run off our feet! I usually just smile as it is just the normal work. Well I am back so everything should be better! Right? Are little things slowing you down today?

A BROKEN HEART FOR THE MALAYSIAN AIRLINE-MH 17 LOSSES

Sometimes the tragedies of the world make our hearts ache. Then there are tragedies close to home. When we hear numbers in a major event, nothing hits home like hearing about one person who was lost and what that one person meant to his/her family, friends and community. Then it means more. Since knowing that all the others had similar stories to tell and would be missed by their loved ones too. So the Malaysian airliner bombed out of the air. Families from 11 countries but mostly the Netherlands and Australia are very heart broken today and will feel this loss the rest of their lives. One thing to crash but another to be part of an act of terrorism. Children-too many lost. Parents for some children lost too. I don't know those people but am feeling heart broken for them. Too many sad stories! Thoughts and prayers to them all!

5TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WESTBANK BC FIRE

Five years ago, there was a fire in the Glen Rosa subdivision where my folks lived in Westbank, BC or West Kelowna as it has been renamed. Evacuated, we did not know where they were for 4 days. Perusing the news reports and all the pictures, I have a binder of picture of the fire and many of them include my parents' home and even one of the jeep with my Dad leaving his street. The car that crashed that day on the news was my Mom's car but she was fine. We did not know this until days later. With the fires burning in Canada today, one can not help but think about how fire and forest fires really affect people's lives.

Lake Okanagan not far from their home where helicopters could retrieve lots of water to douse the fire.

See the black in the distance, taken in 2011 on a visit. Fire fighters and civilians saved the Mill which you can see was very close to the Mill.

At the top of a ridge beside the highway, there is a kiosk that has 4 panels commemorating the fire and efforts made. My parents' home had a hedge burnt, some panels on the side of the house melted and some water damage from the helicopters saving their home. I am sure others in the neighbourhood have their own tales to tell.
Forest fires can often be prevented if humans are careful. Some do start from lightening strikes which can not. So as this fire season tends to be bad for many parts of the country, let's hope everyone stays safe. Here's to the firefighters that work hard every day- urban and country saving lives, homes and try to contain the massive forest fires.

ARE FEELING SAFE AND BEING SAFE THE SAME?

Feeling safe and being safe are two different categories. We are all vulnerable at many times in our lives but can feel safe. Driving in a nice car on the highway at 120 km per hour and we can feel safe. But life can turn in an instance and an accident occurs. However, how many times do we do that activity and well we get to our destination and back safely. With a few pit stops for body functions!! We are lucky to live in a fairly safe country. Not perfect! There is crime but mostly we do not get affected a lot! I have had my wallet stolen twice, house broken into twice and don't know how many times my car has been vandalized. Some small other vandal things like egg thrown at my garage door, some questionable things on my credit card years ago, a few obscene phone calls, fraudulent people in our lives but you get the picture-not perfect but manageable! So does travelling in a secure jet liner qualify as safe! Yesterday a terrible tragedy occurred. An airliner shot down over a territory! People in the middle of their lives! And for what? Are you a little sick to your stomach about it? I know I am. Then the fighting in the Middle East! Do we have to take sides? I only think of the little children on both sides. All children deserve peace and to grow up and have a life, don't they? The summer a time of fun-just do it safely- around water, on the streets-watch for little children playing and crossing the road and yes you do everything safely too- like cleaning debris from eves troughs- use a spotter, don't run over your foot with your lawn mover, wear sunscreen etc. No matter how well we practice safety in our lives, there is never any guarantee is there? Life is very precious-so enjoy! But do it safely as best you can in your power!

LIFE IS LIKE AN AESOP FABLE-THE TORTOISE AND THE HARE

The Tortoise and the Hare- a famous Aesop fable that holds water today. Some areas of our lives are like the rabbit- moving quickly, running or hopping to the finish line ! Not a care in the world. But many of us work at the Tortoise or turtle pace when it comes to doing certain activities of our lives. Slow and methodical, keeping the finish line in view-sometimes the far view. Take a writing project for example. The idea, the inspiration, the notes, the photos and then the writing, typing. The revisions, the drafts, and thinking almost there, finding a typo, a grammatical error, using the same word twice in a paragraph. The reread, the rewrite. Feeling like a turtle. Wishing to be the Hare, to move quickly and then bask in the sun. The organizing of the misc notes and superfluous photos just in case one more thought or corner of a picture is needed for an empty spot on  a page. Another project- the decluttering of a house, room or closet. Thinking it will be a few minutes or an hour, realizing it is more involved than initially thought. Take my poster collection of 30 years- what can be sold, given away or God forbid put in the recycling bin! It is a tedious process of unravelling the poster to see what it is! Keeping them in categories- movies, sports, art, social issues-attended a lot of conferences and workshops where there were free posters, what can I say-, tourist attractions and more. Of course research because some things are worth money and others are not. So they sit like the tortoise, waiting to move forward one poster at a time. Getting activities done, not just moving boxes or piles around to a different spot in the house. So I am a turtle, wanting to be a carefree rabbit and wondering who cares who wins the race of life, as long as there is life and a race to be run! What are you? The Tortoise? The Hare? With the summer weather, sitting under a shady tree is quite inviting isn't it?

NANA SAYS YOUNG TEENS VARY ON HOW TO SPEND THE SUMMER

Watching an early morning show, young teens- those between summer jobs and needing a babysitter- were interviewed about what they are doing for the summer. Many said trying to relax as the school year is very demanding and stressful. Others were at summer school trying to get a heads up on the coming school year. The teens that were taking it easy caught my attention. To allow oneself the luxury of chilling and enjoying life is important. I remember many memorable days swimming, canoeing or hiking to pass the time. Think about it was busy work- real exercise and exploring. As long as one is not glued to the cell phone or to the TV as was the case when I was younger. Out riding the bike or skate board are real activities even though they do not seem productive like studying but the coordination and exploring of the world can inspire children. The exercise and building muscle will last a lifetime.  Oh yes there are math, computer and science camps for those who think they need them. But science and math are around us in the real world. Finding bugs or leaves or going to a farm seeing how food grows are valuable life lessons for children. Watching planes take off and land near the airport can be interesting too. The question about how does flight occur. Hiking can reveal birds, little and big animals. Swimming may reveal fish and other creatures that live near the water. Sunrise and sunset can reveal clouds and weather conditions. Of course changes in weather teach us about tornadoes and hurricanes and other weather patterns-good and bad. Having a pile of books, magazines or even comics for the teens to read is good. My older daughter starting reading Archie Digests before evolving to novels in her teens. Giving teens some chores to do while home can be helpful to working parents. Boredom does occur but it can lead to some creativity as well. If you are bored then get going! Everyone is different and needs to spend the summer as needed. Looking back and having the time to have a slow and easy summer seems like a luxury now. Taking a week off and trying to cram so much in it does not seem valuable. Maybe this Nana can learn to slow down like some of those young teens and really smell the roses.

FOUR YEARS AND 1400 POSTS LATER-REFLECTIONS OF A BLOGGER

July 5 2014 2014 was my 4 year anniversary of blogging. And now with post 1400, time for a real reflection. Do you know that when I posted my 20th post, I questioned myself and wondered what would I have to write about? Perseverance kept me going and now not to post feels unreal. Do you know I get up most days, bath and go to my computer by 6 a.m. to blog! I do not always know what I want to say but I sit there and either think of an idea or peruse my photos for inspiration. I know my original inspiration came from my cousin Roy, but now there are other avenues even though he still inspires me. Then I go to work after some household tasks being done!
For those of you that read my blog regularly, you know my themes. I try to let each day of the week give me some inspiration too. I love doing my Nana Says on Wednesday as it is my parenting theme. Of course, who inspires me but my little grandchildren or listening to modern parents and their dilemmas. Much like dilemmas of other generations but that's another story.
A Postcard From has been on hiatus due to my new computer and adjustment and trying to scan to all my sites. I have to learn how to use the One Drive that comes with Microsoft 8. Recently my printer needed a repair so replace or fix. Of course with a 3 year old printer, replace seemed the better option. Need to be in the right mood to program my new printer. So once done will be scanning postcards and other misc. stuff for this blog. Just watch out for fun stuff!!
Life is like is one of the new themes in the last year. Amazing what can show up there.
My clinical themes so I can pontificate about my social work and clinical knowledge to the world.
Whimsical is always fun and sometimes brings some reads. Crafting, gardening and of course pretty photos work.
Do you know whenever I visit anyway I am always looking for images that could be used on this blog and Adolph's blog- http://granpalovestocook.blogspot.com
Those of you that read both blogs you know I cheat and use the photos for both sites. Mileage from a little work!
Posting every day keeps me disciplined and writing. Sometimes more intellectual, sometimes just something not great but I wrote something.
I need to clean up my genealogy binders so will probably add some genealogy stuff too. Don't know what I will call the theme but I will be inspired somehow. Roy are you there-inspire me!
What amazes me is what gets read and what gets few reads! I post on Facebook to try to bring in more readers and sometimes it helps.
I have my friends and family readers but thanks to those in Russia, Germany, United States who read me regularly. Risk a comment or two as I would love to know what you think of my Blog.
Thanks to Google for allowing free blogs and the opportunity to connect with the world.
So what to write for Post 1401-somehow it will come to me!

OLD WAGONS IN MODERN COLLINGWOOD-A VISIT TO BLUE MOUNTAIN VILLAGE

An old wagon reminds us of time long ago. Needing a horse, a quieter ride. Fun for children in modern times to ride in a wagon. Do you remember watching the cowboy movies and the wagon trains with all one owned inside the wagon? Nostalgia is a fun thing too. Remembering old times while enjoying the modern times. Collecting old things and putting them in your modern home. Wearing vintage clothes to well- a vintage party or wonderful for Halloween. I don't know why but I love wood and product so wood. My house has a few antiques that are my treasures and yes have gone up in value. Don't you just love the old chairs in the wagon. This wagon is outside a store in the Village- Blue Mountain, Collingwood, Ontario. A fun place for a vacation or a day trip from the GTA.

There are many restaurants and fun things to do year round. It started as a ski area in the winter but now has a ride down the mountain-really a hill by western standards. With beaches on Georgian Bay nearby, one can visit the village before or after going to the beach. Lots of cute souvenir shops and activities for the guests. There is  a music venue where guest musicians play. Probably gives work to musicians of all levels. The day we visited there were fun events for children like drumming by Brenda Bettie. I took her card. My daughter and grandsons sure enjoyed doing some drumming with her for a while.
I like the way old things fit in with the new things. Ontario is full of history and Collingwood area has lots to offer.
Are you going to places close to you? It is a way to help local businesses and crafters and musicians make a living, isn't it?

MUSKOKA CHAIRS ARE A CANANDIAN SUMMER STAPLE

Muskoka chairs can be found everywhere in the summer months. Some people get creative, deciding to paint them vibrant colours. By a lake, on a back porch or on the lawn under a tree for snoozing, this Canadian chair brings good thoughts of slowing down for the summer. Do you have one? Where is it?

CORN-THAT GREAT CANADIAN VEGETABLE

Corn grows everywhere in York Region just north of Toronto. It is a huge commodity in farming for most areas in North America.

The Peaches and Cream version is usually available in August. Some has started to arrive at the markets but I think it is more American than our local crops. When I asked Adolph, he did not know where the corn he bought originated but just it was for sale and looked good. Adolph has started to cook it in a different way. Leave the husks on and barbecue it. Then dehusk after barbecuing! Check out his blog- http://granpalovestocook.blogspot.com for his latest post.
The corn is growing well in this season. Enough rain and enough sun. A little history- the Huron, Neutrals and Tobacco First Nations people settled in this area as well as other areas of Southern Ontario. Corn was a huge staple and continues to be grown throughout North America. There is a craft children can make- corn husk dolls! Perhaps I will find the instructions and post at another time for your crafting pleasure. Meanwhile, wherever you are corn eaten alone or with some butter/margarine and a little salt is a delicious vegetable at any meal. But you do need your toothbrush because some pieces of the kernels can get stuck in your teeth!

IS THE SKY THE LIMIT FOR WHAT YOU WANT TO BE AND DO?

Inspirational quotes and motivational talks always tell us if we really want something we can strive and get it. Don't limit yourself! Go after it! Well the sky is the limit, sort of? There are lots of people that wanted to be a famous singer- a few made it but many sing in the shower, the choir or in their car. Wanting a gold medal at the Olympics-well to make it to the event is a gift for a few elite athletes while the journey had many competitors that did not! Many elite athletes did not even place in the top ten!  I understand to try to inspire by saying you can do it! It's in your hands! Yes to encourage to try, to make the effort and stay alive with goals and dreams can make a fulfilling life. But we do not fulfill all our dreams or goals. Things can get in the way- the economy, a health issue, you just were number two in the job promotion-well you get the picture. What comes from the inspiration that no matter what life throws at you to get up and keep going. Having a dream and going after it gives a life journey that teaches and honours our efforts. Where a child lives in the world can affect the ability to achieve? For girls in some countries, it is like the dark ages. Education and health makes the playing field even. To encourage to get the most education or skill in a trade at the highest level or whatever the goal never hurts as it gives hope that the person has a chance to be the best he/she can be. But the best may be a C not an A+ or gifted child. It may be a well rounded person in an ordinary job or situation. The sky is not the limit for everyone because we all do not have a plane to fly in it. Some people are born with the silver spoon in their mouth or parents that did not give a hoot about how well the child did! But trying and learning life long does give us lots of amazing opportunities to continue to discover, explore and feel the world around us. We all need to be inspired. Motivated! A good church sermon full of hope! A feel good movie! A family get together where everyone had a good time! An increase in pay or even a bonus for a good project! Many moments in life that have inspired. Reading famous quotes can give a thought for the day. One I read today on the CHFI page- a local radio station- was from Audrey Hepburn- There is no impossible because it is I'm possible! Interesting because it does not say conquering the world but I can be possible wherever it may take me! No comparing to others or where I stand in the world but I am possible! So are you possible! Do you continue to read or hear inspirational quotes or lectures? Are you motivated to strive, to be and to feel? Hum-what are your thoughts or inspirations of the day?

DOES THE PERFECT HOME COME WITH A WHITE PICKET FENCE?

Some earlier concepts for the perfect life was a home with a white picket fence. Farms often had such a fence around the home to separate it from the barn area. The 1950s postwar life in the suburbs always included the picket fence. Perhaps it went back to the earlier times where people of wealth had such a fence so it makes sense. The same with a wonderful green lawn-useless but it looks good and speaks of wealth. If one had property and a large lawn-well you had money. The fence! Keeps life contained and supposed to keep the critters out. A white fence from wood actually is work. Needs to be painted every few years! The modern fences from iron or aluminum are quite low maintenance. They look similar but no work. Funny- on my walk to work there is a home that has such a picket fence.  Where did the notion of a white picket fence start? Was it a North American thing? A southern state thing? I don't recall seeing white picket fences in Europe, do you?

#awhitepicketfencewasalwayswelcomed#whitepicketfence#greenlawnsareuseless#fenceskeeplifecontained#sowhostartedawhitepicketfence#reflectivethoughtsbybarbara#barbaradimambro

NANA SAYS WE TEACH THOUGHTFULNESS BY EXAMPLE

On a recent trip to the Toronto Zoo with my daughter and grandchildren, a simple life lesson was taught. Having to make some food and snacks to feed the little ones, I was asked if I wanted a sandwich too by a  phone call the night before the trip. So at lunch time out came the food and the sandwich made for Nana. As I was eating, I thanked my daughter for the delicious food while my grandchildren looked puzzled. I simply stated it was very nice of their mother to make Nana some food too. Children will not learn to appreciate the simple everyday acts by parents if no one actually acknowledges them and gives a simple thank you. Seeing a Nana thanking her daughter-their Mom for her thoughtfulness was a simple act to do. So remember to thank each other as parents, thank your children, thank the clerk at the store- simple messages of acknowledgement for a kindness can occur anywhere. Children are made aware without a lecture or a big hoopla!

LIFE IS LIKE A JIGSAW PUZZLE

Given a box with 1000 pieces to put together, life can be like a jigsaw puzzle. One piece looks like it might fit but another spot needs to be found. Complete the edges so the "box" of the puzzle is made. Checking and rechecking where the colour themes occur. But sometimes there are lighter shades that belong elsewhere too. Initially it may look too confusing or difficult, plugging away will bring completion. Then what, like life get out another puzzle! Lives can have many finished puzzles. Like the stages of life, each puzzle can represent those stages. Completed, sometimes framed, sometimes dismantled to make room for the next one. Each piece a memory, a task of the day or sections for our family groups that add colour and challenge to our lives. As there are many different lives, so there are many different puzzles. Simple ones for preschoolers. Big ones that fit a large floor space. Or ones that are good for a rainy day at the cottage! A puzzle! Even the word conjures up intrigue! An enigma!Everyday events can come with a puzzle. What to do? Who to see? An ordinary day at work or does it come with a crisis? How to solve the puzzle? Even the decision of what to have for dinner can be a puzzle. Eat out or eat in? Although life is like a puzzle, it actually can be like many puzzles or just full of disconnected puzzle pieces! How is your puzzle of life?

THE TORONTO ZOO-WORTH A TRIP ON A JULY SUNDAY

The Toronto Zoo is a fun place to visit. But put on your walking shoes as it very spacious to allow for many animals to run and roam in their enclosures.. A visit after many years of absence has seen some changes. My first visit was in in 1975 when it first opened. Now there are full grown trees that shade pathways and allow for relief from the hot summer sun. The elephants are gone to a reserve in California to allow them to have more of a natural environment. Regular visits occurred when my children were small. Now they take their little ones for a visit each year. Of course the Pandas are there which has brought in some crowds. The Panda Pavilion is very interesting before actually seeing the sweet animals.

I remember their last visit when the girls were little in 1982.

Zoos are great places to experience the animals of the world. Of course, for those of us that will never see them run wild in places like Africa it is the only opportunity to be up close and personal. Besides there are no poachers ready to kill and maim them. Even the elephants that needed a new home bring those thoughts to mind. Perhaps they survived because they were safe from the hunters. One had been born at the Zoo and was allowed to have a safe life.
Zoos do attract families with lots of children. Especially on a sunny Sunday! One must be patient with the strollers, wagons and little bodies excited to see all the exhibits.

There are many possibilities to help with the preservation of various animal species. A day at the Zoo brings many thoughts and reflections.
Sometimes I wonder when the animals are lying and shading themselves if they are looking at us and wondering who the strange creatures are and why are they walking in the hot sun? Have you been to a Zoo lately?

FAMILIES DON'T NEED TO BE PERFECT TO BE EFFECTIVE

Families come in all shapes and sizes but none are without some conflict. Resolving those conflicts and learning to accept differences makes for a positive family life. Allowing space and togetherness are incongruous but work to allow for individual growth. When we look to the animal kingdom there are many models of families. The wolf has its pack. The lion has its pride. The antelope has its herd. The mother elephant cares for the others and keeps her baby close. Human children need the warmth and care of parents and a family group. Not perfect but important for emotional growth!

LITTLE THINGS MAKE A FULL LIFE

Little things can make a full life. Sometimes listening to the big events that some people experience all the time. Like travel talk or the expensive car talk or how much money has been make on stocks! Well you get the picture. But have you ever felt really happy after a simple event! Like a small dinner party with friends yakking about whatever and laughing. The next day not remembering all the conversations but just a simple good time. Or reading a bed time story to a child whether your own or another! Did someone thank you for a job well done? Finishing that good book you were reading and glad that you read it! A day at a local beach with a simple picnic lunch! A lazy Saturday summer day, puttering and getting little things done. Connecting! Maybe even napping! Life is what we make it-one small experience at a time. We can relish the big events and store all those memories too. Like a family wedding! Or a graduation! Or a special birthday! But all the regular birthdays with a regular cake are good too! Simple moments make a lifetime of love!

Like a good breakfast on a Sunday morning with a loved one! Outside enjoying the warmth of the season. What are your little times that have made your life?

CANADA-FRIENDS WITH AMERICA-HAPPY 4TH OF JULY

As our American neighbours celebrate the 4th of July, it is time to say thank you for being our neighbours. Yes Canadians have their own history and culture. We are a salad bowl and not a melting pot. It has been over 200 years since there has been any conflict with them- the War of 1812 that actually ended in 1814.We agree to disagree like good friends do. Democracies not dictatorships so our political ideologies are similar. I do not have to go to bed at night knowing that someone hates me and would love to eliminate my country and kill my children and grandchildren. Peace, harmony and friendship have come at a cost. So as they celebrate let's watch and enjoy. We can be our Canada- the true north, strong and free as well as give a wave to our friends to the south. Happy 4th of July.

NANA SAYS CHANGE CAN BRING DEFIANCE, REGRESSION AND ANGER IN CHILDREN

As the summer is upon us, children can already be saying I am bored. Routines established during the school year change and impact the mood of all. Sleeping in loses its appeal when everyone must get up for the bus to day camps or programs. Not all parents have the luxury of taking 9 weeks off every summer so must find alternative solutions for children. Leaving friends and a loved teacher or caregiver can be very unsettling for little ones. I noticed with my little grandchildren leaving Day Care and Kindergarten for Grade One in the Fall has been trying for them. Change can bring regression in behaviour, defiance and anger acted out in different ways. Think about it! We all react to change. The older we are the more we know what we dislike and know how to label it. Adults experience mood changes, angry behaviour and may find themselves resisting new ideas with any change. Children do not know what to do with their feelings sometimes. Who takes the most? Usually the Mom who is always there and often Dads if they are around often. Testing and talking back may be a way to ask- are you going to leave me too? I remember one colleague telling me about her son when he did not like going to the big school when he left Day Care. It was scary. The rooms were too big. Children do not often talk about their feelings but if they share anything-go with it! Tell your child you know it is tough, they will miss the person or the event or the old school. Let the child know change is hard. It is okay to feel sad, mad or glad. Remember though anger is usually a defense for sadness. So letting your child cry- yes cry and get out the feelings about the situation can cleanse little people, teenagers and big people too. School out and the summer should be fun but the beginning brings all the changes. Remember less is more! So weekly routines like a trip to the library. Homemade ice cream cones or a trip to a favourite place for a cone! Giving little chores with an incentive like an increase in allowance could help. And help you too! Picking up after everyone becomes boring for the parent or adult in a child's life. If you the parent act as if you like being with your children, it does help the mood. Sit on the floor or at the table and do a craft with them.  Get out your bike and do a bike ride of two with them. Encourage alone time for everyone to give alone time to parents or other caregivers as well. Of course, lots of hugs and family hugs. Even with crabby little children and big ones too insist they must hug you and give a kiss. Touch has a calming effect on all of us. It is also a way to show you love someone. Oh yes, at least once a day tell your children you love them. I know you might not always like them- but you do love them!!!

CANADA'S SUMMER BRINGS LOTS OF FRUIT

Summer is the time to eat fruit. The Canada Food Guide says 5-6 portions of fruit and vegetables every day. With the summer bounty growing right in our backyards it sure is time to enjoy! My favourite are the cherries. Baskets can be eaten in a few days. My folks used to have fresh cherries in their yard in Westbank British Columbia- right in the Okanagan Valley. What was funny was the fact they were in Orchard country and could buy buckets for a reasonable price! They did not have to grow their own. During visits in the summer, guests would help pick the fruit. My kids sure enjoyed the fresh cherries when we visited in 1989. Strawberries are another favourite- eaten fresh, with ice cream or made into jam. A Canadian staple! There are pockets of fruit belts in Canada. Nova Scotia- Annapolis Valley, Ontario- Niagara region and British Columbia- Okanagan. Of course, many farmers may have a few fruit trees as well as homeowners decide to grow some of their own too! Fruit good for your health and good to eat! So what is your favourite one!

CANADA DAY 2014-A GREAT NATION

Canada Day 2014- 147 years since Confederation! A young political Country but a land with a rich long history of Native people, people escaping poverty or religious persecution in Europe, Protestant Work Ethic, colonization and blending cultures and diversity. Freedoms, Human Rights, Universal Health Care and Programs to support people to return to the work force. An opportunity to earn a decent living and live in peace and harmony due to the efforts of generations before use! Not worrying about our neighbours- the Americans and Mexicans! Celebrating with red and white- waving our Maple Leaf Flags- large and small.

Many homes have a flag in front- I have my large flag on a pole stuck in the ground with a flag waving in the wind. It is a good backdrop for family photos or visitors from other countries. Richmond Hill has a big celebration at Richmond Green later today. Fireworks at several places during the night. All across the country, municipalities are having similar ceremonies!
My Nationality is Canadian. I really do not relate to any other land since I am born of many generations on this land. The least is one of my 8 grandparents who came in 1878 from Ireland. The rest were born here! So that makes 136 years from that ancestor of living in this rich country to many more years of other ancestors. Of course, the family history may be fodder for several posts! Some modern family members even have a birthday today.
So here's to Canada Day and a chance to feel proud of all the accomplishments of this great land. No matter what is done today-stop and reflect why you feel proud to be Canadian. What are you doing to celebrate the day?  Think about what you can do to help continue to make it a great nation! Remember the words of American President Kennedy! What would your words be to encourage young people to carry the torch and wave the flag?