Darlene Myers

I was so moved by this photograph by Mark Stucker, that I had to write a blog on it.  I changed the title many times.  I started with ‘Are We Doing Enough to Feed the Homeless?”  Then I changed it to “Are You Lonely in a Crowded World?”  And then I decided to call it the True Meaning of Companionship.

We recently surpassed  7 Billion people on this planet, and yet, is it possible that more people are lonelier than ever before?   Have you ever watched people speed by each other in the mall or on the street and do you notice few people make eye contact anymore.  If our total communication depends entirely on the Internet (as I sit here writing a blog), is it any wonder so many people are lonely.  I have been blessed with many wonderful friends and a great family, and I encourage everyone to take time with their friends and/or family for some real face to face time.  Talk to each other if you can.  You’ll be making memories, believe me.

And although we have surpassed 7 billion people, study after study show us that there is enough food to feed everyone on the plant.  The World Health Organization says that we produce enough food to feed everyone. World agriculture produces 17 percent more calories per person today than it did 30 years ago.  That’s approximately 2700 calories per person.    The main problem is that many people in the world do not have sufficient land to grow, or income to purchase, enough food.

Back to the photograph.  In my New Year’s blog I wrote that ‘If you want to feel rich, count all the gifts you have that money can’t buy.”   The man in this photograph probably has less money in the bank than you or I, but in so many ways he is richer than most of the people I passed in the mall this afternoon.  Embrace your friends, your family or even your pet and experience the joy of true companionship.

Thank you Mark Stucker for a photograph that I hope, in some small way, will change someone’s world.

Darlene

I was sitting here, about to write a new blog, when bam!  The power went out.  You don’t fully realize how much we depend on this invention.    The first thing that pops into your mind is ‘What to do now’?  So I comprised this list of things you can do during a power outage.   The list is much longer if the power goes out during the day.  The first is the ‘daytime power outage list’.  Hope you get some ideas!

1. Dive head first in a tub of ice-cream.  That’s right, the power is off.  You can’t let the ice cream go to waste.

2.  Clean – It’s not like your house can’t use it.

3.  Go for a Walk – burn calories before you put your butt on the couch in front of the television… again!

4.  Take a nap

5.  Go shopping in an area of town the power is on

6.  Play a Board Game – FYI – this sucks if you live alone.  And the cat just keeps batting the pieces under the couch.

7.  Look for that flashlight you’ve been meaning to look for

8.  Discover just how crappy those emergency candles are

9.  Read – a great time to catch up on that book or magazine that you can never find the time to do.   Chances are you may learn something new

10.  BBQ – all the meat is thawing out anyway

During the night – it gets a little more challenging

1.  Figure out how you’re going to re-arrange the furniture once the power comes back on, because you keep walking into the coffee table.

2.  Go to bed – after all the crappy emergency candles are just little burning stubs and you never did find that flash light.  On the bright side, you’ll get a great night’s sleep.

Darlene

7.

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I once read something that said ‘if you want to go to heaven – go to church, if you want to go to hell – go to a beauty salon.   I guarentee you its more entertaining than television.

I just had the pleasure of sitting in a beauty salon for 2 hours while a very patient lady took the grey out of my hair.  Oh my!  The perils of getting older.

However, it was a chance to sit between two twenty-somethings and get a different, quite refreshing outlook on life.  Ladies, for all of us, getting older dealing with aches and pains and dreaming of the days when we were 20-something, I say to you – Be Grateful.

First of all, did you know you can pay to have feathers put in your hair! (I am not making this up)  It costs $12.   And apparently this is quite a dilemma.  The good news is the feathers can be straightened, curled and cleaned.  Hmmm, I have dustballs in my home I can do that to, for free.  Can you imagine showing up for work with feathers in your hair?  My co-workers would have a field day.

Plus, did you know that the worst thing that can happen to you when you are twenty-something is not have plans on a Friday night.   Having to stay home with nothing to do but sip on a quiet glass of wine is dastardly – I call that heaven, but then again, I’m not hip!

And then there’s man trouble!  Whew, you learn some pretty new break-up lines in a beauty salon.  ‘We can’t move in together, because my mom won’t approve’!  If that doesn’t have the romance head south faster than a Canadian during a rough winter, I don’t know what will.  Or ‘I will continue to act this way until you break up with me’… Nice guy.

Ladies, there are advantages to being older.  In a hostage situation, you’ll probably be released first and your joints are probably more accurate than the weatherman   But you know what, we tend to discard toxic people and surround ourselves with loving caring friends, and that’s not a bad thing.  We have figured out what’s truly important and are better people for it.

I am proud to be turning 50 this year… yay

Darlene

Mine is fabulous!!  I am loving 2012 and I believe it will only get better from here.  If you read my New Year’s Blog, you know I have set out some goals for myself.

My weight… I am exercising every day and eating better… I know what you’re thinking, it’s only been a week.  Well I have a very smart co-worker who says ‘You have to eat an elephant one bite at a time’.  That’s how I’m tackling the eating better and exercise thing.  I believe I can keep this up till I go on a trip…. which by the way, I am open to suggestions.  Drop me a line of your best vacation or a suggestion for me.  I am open to any and all ideas.

Remember I wanted to read more books that I am able to educate myself.  I am reading 2 books at this time.  My Life With Marilyn by Colin Clark and ‘The Rules of Management’ by Richard Templar.  I am thoroughly enjoying both reads.  If you have any more suggestions, I would love to hear from you.  I read a lot.

I also wanted to do more public speaking.  Well, I booked my first public speaking appearance of the year for this coming Thursday.  I am speaking to a group of sales people and I am looking forward to that.  If you have any words of wisdom to pass along, drop me a note.

The reason for this blog reflects back to the picture above.  Be the Change You Want to See in the World.  You see, it’s one thing to tell people that there are things you want to accomplish, but unless you start to take the steps to accomplish them, you’re just blowing smoke up their butts.  Oh, and I am still off the smokes.

How’s Your New Year so far.  Would love to hear from you

Darlene

On this New Year’s Eve 2011 my friend Michelle posted this photo on her Facebook page.  I think it’s a great thought as one year comes to an end and we are about to start another one.

A lot of people ask me what I am doing on New Year Eve.  My New Year’s Eve is my night to enjoy a treat bottle of wine and to write in my journal.  I like to write on the reflections of the past year and my hopes for the coming year.

This past year I quit smoking, and one of my personal goals this year is to have the strength to stay away from cigarettes.  Some of my other personal plans is to take control of my weight once again and rid myself of the ‘quit smoking pounds’ I put on.  I am going to do it in a healthy way by exercising more and focusing on a more plant-based eating plan.  More fruits and vegetables, less animal fat.

I am already an avid reader but I want to educate myself better this year.  I will read practically anything I can get my hands on, but one thing I want to do this year is read more biographies and learn more about other people.   I also want to become smarter in business and I have set some lofty goals for my business life.

I have cut many toxic people from my life and I try to surround myself with positive people I continue to learn from.  I want to become even better at that and work  harder at being the positive person other people gravitate towards.

I want to become a better public speaker and get some practice in 2012 and I would like to volunteer more.  I have been blessed with many gifts in my life and would like to give back even more.    I am a firm believer that what you give out will come back ten-fold.

And I would like to be a mentor to more people in 2012.   I have had the pleasure of meeting some fantastic people who have been great at mentoring me, and I would like to do the same to someone else.    I want to be the person I would like to see more of in the world.

I read a quote today that says ‘If you want to feel rich, count all the gifts you have that money can’t buy”.    So as we are about to enter 2012, I hope you can count many gifts in your life and that the New Year brings you even more gifts in value that we can’t put a price tag on.

Happy New Year

Darlene

I was saddened to hear about the passing today of Nibbs Murphy!  Nibbs was a dog, a beautiful, tail-wagging happy dog - adopted 13 years ago by two people who loved him and made him part of their family, Mike and Kim Murphy.

Nibbs brought so much joy to the Murphy family, especially with the addition of  their two sons Elijah and Gavin.  The 5 family members made a home… a home filled with love, laughter, and joy!

I love these words from John Galsworthy about how a pet can make a pet a home!

“N ot the least hard thing to bear when they
go from us, these quiet friends, is that they
carry away with them so many years of our lives.
Y et, if they find warmth therein,who would
begrudge them those years that they
have so guarded?”
And whatever they take, be sure they have deserved.”

John Galsworthy “Memories”

You were loved Nibbs Murphy

Hi Everyone!

I am experimenting with my posts, adding pictures, links etc.  I am so new to this!

I have decided to call this Post “Tigger Turns 13″ .  You have probably figured by now I have a cat… I adopted him 12 1/2 years ago from the SPCA at the age of 5 months, and recently he turned 13.  You’ve probably also guessed his name is Tigger.  It was a longshot, but I just knew you would figure it out.

Tigger has lived in 4 provinces in Canada, Alberta, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland.   He was abandoned on the side of the highway in Alberta, before being bought to a local SPCA.  I did some volunteer work there, and the first time I picked Tigger up, he wouldn’t let go.  I really had no choice but to adopt,,, he seriously wouldn’t let go of me.

A pet is instant stress relief!  Great company and animals seem to be able to read your mood, and will lift your spirit automatically.  Did you know people who own pets live longer?  I believe it… you can’t stay stressed in the company of a pet.  

If you are considering adopting an animal, they will become part of your family.  I urge you to do your research before adopting or buying an animal.  Make sure the animal fits your lifestyle, as Tigger does mine.  I will have a dog once I retire, but living out side the city, and being gone about 11 hours at a time, just wouldn’t be fair to a dog at this point in my life.  Remember, if you are considering adopting or buying, make the decision for the long haul.  They could be part of your family for a long time, and that time will include vet bills including vaccinations, getting spade and getting sick.  It’s all a part of it.

But the richness Tigger brings to my life.  I wish that richness on each and everyone of you.

Have a great day

Darlene and Tigger

Although George Carlin has been credited with the following passage, apparently he did not write this.  However, whoever did write it, I think, hit the nail on the head, and it may just help us take a moment to slow down and think about the message.  Hats off to whoever did write these words of wisdom.

The Paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints.  We spend more but in many ways have less; we buy more but enjoy less.  We have bigger houses and smaller families; more conveniences, but less time.  We have more degress, but less sense; more knowledge, but less judgement; more experts, yet more problems; more medicines but less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get too tired, read too little, watch too much television, and pray too seldom.  We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values.  We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too easily.

We’ve learned how to make a living, but not a life.  We’ve added years to live, but not life to years.  We’ve been to the moon and back but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbour.  We’ve conquered outer space, but not our inner space. 

We’ve done large things, but not always better things.  We’ve conquered the atom, but not our prejiduce.  We write more, but learn less.  We plan more but accomplish less.  We’ve learned to rush but not to wait.  We build more computers to store more information, we produce more copies, but communicate less. 

These are times of fast food and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profit but shallow relationships.  These are the days of two incomes, but more divorces, fancier houses and broken homes.  These are the days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality and one night stands.  Overweight bodies and pills that do everything from cheer to quiet to kill.

Remember, spend some time with loved ones, as they will not be around for ever.  Remember to say a kind word to someone to looks at you with awe, because that little person will soon grow up and leave your side.  Remember to give warm hugs.  Remember to say “I Love You” to your partner and loved ones, but most of all, mean it! 

Give time to love, give time to speak and give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind!

Today is Thanksgiving Day here in Canada.  It is one of my favorite times of the year.  So many things to be thankful for and so many ways to say it.

For my family, there is too much to say!  Muchos gracias! (Spanish)

For the variety of fantastic friends, who bring different things to the table, Jag Tackar!  (swedish)

For my pet cat of 13 years, Tigger, who is ‘instant stress relief’ everytime I open that door to come home, Arigato!  (japanese)

Those are the things you almost expect to hear at Thanksgiving, but this beautiful day has also made me grateful for things you may not expect.

I am grateful for my home.  At times I struggle being a single person with a mortgage, which makes me appreciate it all the more.  I live outside of the city with a deck that overlooks the beautiful Humber River and after almost two years, I still am grateful every day.  I know that there are many people in the world without a home, so I am very grateful for mine.  Merci Beaucoup!

Reading is one of the joys in my life, and I realize that there are many who aren’t able to read and write, so I am grateful for those gifts in my life.  Also, the people who live without sight inspire me with their courage.  For all of you I am thankful.  Danke!  (german) Read more »

A good friend and co-worker of mine lost his battle to cancer in the early hours of Tuesday morning.  Al Best!  He didn’t garner national media attention trying to save the world like Bono of U2, but he made the world a better place for the people who were priviledged enough to know and love him.

I don’t know if I have ever met anyone with a sense of humor like Al Best!  Some Al-isms… “I’m so hungry, my gut thinks my throat is cut” is the first one that comes to my mind;  And on Tuesday when I didn’t think it was possible to smile, his good friend Todd Goodyear texted me with that saying, and Todd, you made me smile.  Thank you.  Another one of my favorites “There’s a big difference between scratching your ass and tearing a piece out of it”.   Al put everything into perspective very simply, and didn’t stress about too much.

He was a man who loved his family so much and they came first.  That was one of the great qualities about this human being.  One of them… Because there were many more.  One of the greatest gifts he gave the world is that everyone who came in contact with Al, left with a smile on their face.  How many people can say that about another person.

My thoughts and prayers and love go out to all his family and friends.  Al Best, it was an honour to know you.

Happy New Year!  Are you ready for 2009.   I believe it is going to be a year of change!

I haven’t written in a while, considering my last article was entitled “39 Sleeps to Christmas”.   I didn’t take my own advice, and got over-whelmed in December.  Thank you Craig for kick-starting me this morning with your recent comment.    I had forgotten how much I enjoyed doing this!

I logged on to a couple of news sites this morning and after glimpsing headlines of uncertainty, I closed them.  Because I woke up this morning invigorated and excited about the coming year.  I believe in change, I believe change is the only constant we can count on!  And change is good.   After spending a quiet New Year’s Eve reflecting on 2008, I also spent some time reflecting on the coming year for myself personally.  I love New Years Day.  It represents to me 365 days of possibilities. 

I also like the ‘Out with the Old, In with the New’, that comes with each New Years Day!  Already this morning I have gutted out my spare room, removing clutter and boxes.  Why, I ask myself, would a self-proclaimed pack-rat buy a 1074 square foot COMDO!  Change of course.  It was January 2 years ago, and although I struggle sometimes with the lack of storage space, I do love condo life.  I have also started in on cupboards and drawers, stuffed to the max with ‘Stuff’!  I figure if I haven’t used it in 3 years, I probably dont really need it.

I am also excited about the coming year at work.  Working in the media means constant change as well, but I look forward to the challenges these changes will bring.  Change means growth in our business, and growth is always good.

So I wish everyone a Happy New Year.  I hope 2009 means change and growth both personally and professionally to all of you.   The Greek Philosopher Heraclitus wrote “Good character is not formed in a week or a month. It is created little by little, day by day.”  And that is something I will be bringing to my daily life in 2009.

Dar

“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them!”  Walt Disney

It is said whether you dream big or dream small, the cost is the same.   As kids, we believe anything is possible.   However, as we grow older we are told to ‘stop day-dreaming’ and ‘grow up’.   Do you think anyone told Walt Disney to ‘stop day-dreaming’?  Probably!  Wouldn’t it be a shame if he had listened?

Sometimes I think its easier to work hard at something, than it is to take that leap of faith and have the courage to dream big!   Did you know that most people are not afraid of failure, they are afraid of people telling them ‘You’re Crazy!”  Now that’s crazy!

The motivational speaker Les Brown says if we are going to fall, we should land on our backs.  If we can look up, we can get up.  This is a guy that says some people die at the age of 21, but they dont’ get buried until they are 75.  Not the way I want to live my life! 

Most people on their deathbed rarely regret things they did, most regret the things they never did.  You’ll never wish you spent more time at the office.  I do not want to be one of those people who have regrets like that on my death bed. 

I had the privilege of attending an ‘Energy Empowerment’ Workshop this weekend with Dr. Gabrielle Woerner out of Montreal.  I found it interesting that our physical body, mental body, emotional body and spiritual body are all connected.  I liked how this lady encouraged us to dream,,, dream big,,, dream whatever we like,,, but enjoy the journey.  Savor the moments we are in.   Take time to enjoy and be grateful for today!  Now that’s good advice.

Enjoy your week!  Dream Big!

Dar

Today is March 1st.  There are 305 days left in this year, and 298 sleeps until Christmas.  I know, I know!

The worst two months of winter are over!  Hopefully!  I am so glad to see March arrive – it has been a long, lots of snow two months of January and February. 

It’s Beer Day in Iceland – a celebration of this day in 1989 that marked the end of beer prohibition.  I can’t help but wonder when Wine Day is.   It also marks the birthdays of Movie Director Ron Howard and George Eads from C.S.I. Crime Scene Investigation. 

It’s also the last day of the Corner Brook Winter Carnival.  Closing ceremonies take place at Club 64 on Broadway with music provided by ‘The Newfie Connection’. 

It’s also the last day of the East Coast Music Awards with the big Awards Show and televised Gala taking place tonight.  Corner Brook has been a hub of musical talent and activity over the past couple of days.  What a treat for those of us who live here to experience the East Coast Music Awards.

Enjoy your Sunday, March 1st!

As I am about to venture on to a new and exciting work journey, I think of my 6 year old nephew Riley, doing the penguin happy dance, after seeing the movie.  I thought I would share the following words someone sent me!! 

Too many people put off something that brings them joy
just because they haven’t thought about it, don’t have it on their
schedule, didn’t know it was coming or are too rigid to depart from their 
routine.
 I got to thinking one day about all those women on the 
Titanic who passed up dessert at dinner that fateful night in an effort to 
cut back. From then on, I’ve tried to be a little more flexible.

On Thursday, March 12th, a terrible tragedy struck off the coast of Newfoundland.  A tragedy that affected every Newfoundlander.   A Sikorsky S92 chopper, known as Cougar 911, crashed and so far only 1 survivor have been found in the frigid waters of the Atlantic and one fatality.

Every single person who lives on this island, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean has felt an impact from this tragedy.   The 18 people on board the chopper were from all over the province, and once again we are reminded of the sacrifices Newfoundlanders continue to make to enable them to make a living.  From fisherman, to sealers to oil workers, the Atlantic Ocean has taken the lives of Newfoundlanders for years, as they try to make a living and provide for their families.   A person’s thoughts go back to 1984 when Newfoundland’s waters were the scene of tragedy in February 1982 when 84 people perished when a huge oil drilling rig, the Ocean Ranger, tipped over and sank in a storm with 70-foot-tall waves. 

I just wanted to take a moment of quiet thought and reflection for the families and friends of those aboard that Cougar helicopter.   We pray the love of every Newfoundlander enfolds you during your journey through grief.
We send you thoughts of comfort.

As a manager that seems to be constantly recruiting for salespeople, I find myself asking the question “What happened to the work ethic that was so predominant years ago?”  Is it just me, or does it seem that people want to find the ‘easy way’ out…. and more importantly, could this be another reason, (other than greed) that played a role in our economic down-turn!

Let’s take a look.  AIG, after receving billions of tax-payers dollars in a bail-out, still want to pay out 165-million in bonuses.  Bonuses for what?  Putting the company close to bankruptcy?   The CEO’s of the auto industry showed up in private planes the first time they went asking for money.  Is life so rough when you can travel by private plane?   The only reason they showed up driving hybrids the next time they went asking for money is because the media had a field day.  And here in Canada the CBC is asking for money out of one side of their mouth, and paying out bonuses out of the other side.  This just goes to prove the mind-set has not changed, and they will continue to make the same greedy mistakes that got them in this situation in the first place.  Aghhh!

On the home-front 82,600 people lost their jobs in February here in Canada, pushing the unemployment rate to a high of 7.7%  Yet, when I interview people I get asked questions like “What time is my coffee break?” and “Can I have 2 months off my first year”?  I am not making this stuff up.

I believe one of the things that is going to turn this economic recession around is hard work.  Batten down the hatches people…. It’s time to go to work.  There are jobs out there, but because the cost of doing business is increasing, we have to work harder right now.  Guess what?  That’s OK! 

Here’s my final thought on this subject!  “Out of choppy waters, true leaders will emerge”!  Be a leader!  Let’s get working!

I have been travelling much more for work reasons during the week, so I only get a chance to blog on weekends.  Please keep reading,,, I enjoy all the comments very much.

Darlene

I love red wine!  And I am always looking for different wines to try.  If anyone out there is willing to share their favorites, let me know.  I would love to try them as well.  I am looking forward to hearing about your favorites, and why you like them!

Here are a few of my favorites.

1.  Marques de Riscal, a Spanish Rioja Reserva, is one of my favorites.  A Spanish Reserva is usually aged 3 years after the grapes are picked and one of those years in Oak.  This makes the oak subtle, but distinct.  This is a fantastic wine, goes with everything.

2.  Francis Ford Coppola Black Diamond Claret.  Another one of my favorites, and a great treat wine.  A rich dark color, the 2006 is a favorite, because of the long cool season that year.  Grapes didn’t get harvested until September 26th that year and it makes for a smooth wine.

3.  Chateau de Serame.  I am not usually a fan of french wines, but I really like this one.  The 2004 is one of my favorites, and I do like the 2001, but it does have more of a kick to it.   Hints of Black Plum and Blackberry’s, it has a great aroma.

4.  Shiraz – I love a good Shiraz, including the french one Fat Bastard and the Australian Shiraz Coonawara.   I also really like the Jacob’s Creek Shiraz from Austraila, and it’s a great value, and under $15.

I look forward to hearing from you and telling me what your favorites are. 

Cheers,

Darlene

Just a quick note to say Happy Easter to all my friends, family, and fellow bloggers.   Whatever this Easter brings for you, whether its an abundance of faith, or spring cleaning the closets, I hope it finds you happy and safe.  

 Although it is Christianity’s most important holiday, for me personally it is a time of renewal, springtime and cleansing.  As I look out my window at the sudden down-pouring of snow, I realize its not very ‘spring-like’, but snow does have a cleansing effect.  I have also realized that it is this 4-day Easter weekend that brings out the spring cleaner in me.  I always tend to go deep deep deep in the closet space, and throw away one or two things I haven’t worn in 10 years, but somehow managed to talk myself  into keeping during last year’s Spring clean.

So enjoy this Easter with family or friends and I hope you find your own personal renewal and growth.  And remember, only 256 sleeps to Christmas.

Darlene

 I have not written much lately because I have been travelling alot for work.  And one of the many challenges I have been facing recently is Recruiting!  I have been interviewing a lot of people for positions, and you will not believe some of the things I have heard in interviews.  One of my staff members thinks I should write a book on the subject, but I think I will start with my blog.

The following statements are actual statements I have heard in the past 2 months while interviewing people.  You can’t make this stuff up!

** “I dont believe in reading books and I don’t believe in professional development – I am as good as I’m going to get. ”  The person who said this to me is not yet 40.

** “Everytime I get frustrated I need a day off! ”  When asked how this person manages frustrations.

** “I’m going to need 2 months off my first year!”  Sweetie, if a company can give you two months off your first year, they probably don’t need you.

** “I assume one of my duties will be talk some people out of buying the product your trying to sell.  You know some people have too much, so I guess I’ll be cancelling a lot of orders!”  Don’t let the door hit you in the ass on the way out, was the reply to that one.

The sad part is I could go on and on.   I had done a previous blog on whap happened to the work ethic, but I can tell you interviewing has turned into an interesting part of my work week. 

Hope you had a chuckle!  I know I did the minute they left the building.

D

                  Hello everyone!

I’m back!  After travelling quite a bit for the past 8 weeks and barely being home on weekends, I am not back in the fold.  And looking forward to writing in my blog over the coming days, as I have not written in a while.

I have been doing a bit of reading on planes and in hotel rooms, and I will fill you in on the latest books.  Haven’t had a chance to watch a lot of movies, but stay tuned!  And I’ve met some very interesting people… there will be more on that front.

I will be writing lots in so please come back.  In the meantime, here’s a thought!

Have you ever wondered if the five dollar bill in your wallet, was ever in a stripper’s butt crack!  If you haven’t, bet you the $5 you are now!

Have a great evening!

Dar

Tomorrow is Mother’s Day and I wanted to take a moment to pay tribute to all the mothers out there, especially my own.

You know you are a mom when…..

1.  You hum the Barney song when you are cleaning the house

2.  When you find yourself cutting up your husband’s food.

3.  You are starting to like the taste of strained carrots and applesauce.

To all the mom’s who wiped our noses, took care of us when we were sick, cleaned up after us, cooked for us, and still found time to read us a book – God Bless you!

Darlene

  Being On The Road can be Hard on the Body!

As most of you are aware, For the past 8 weeks I have been travelling for business… and that means hotel rooms, airplanes and all the other ‘stuff’ that goes along with travelling on business.  And I gotta tell you… It’s not easy!

A friend of mine has been doing it for 8 or 9 months or so, and it dawned on me that you don’t realize how hard living in hotels 90% of the time can be.  It made me want to write this article, because I only had to do it for two months, and let me tell you, I didn’t even realize how tired I was.  It’s not like travelling on vacation,, for starters, that’s for a short time, and you are so happy to be on vacation, that nothing else matters.  It’s different than ‘living’ in a hotel.

 I am very happy to report that my friend has found a job in the city in which he lives, and the travelling will come to an end. 

Appreciate sleeping in your own bed folks!  Nothing compares to it.

Enjoy Mothers Day

Darlene

     The May Long Weekend is just around the corner….

     And it’s snowing!

I don’t know about you, but I really look forward to the May long weekend.  In Canada, it’s really early this year, starting on Friday May 15th.  You see, in Canada, unless the 24th falls on a Monday, its celebrated here the weekend before.  So, although it is a little early this year, I know I should not be looking out my window at SNOW!

No, its not a typo, SNOW!  Now as you know, here in Canada we have had a brutal winter with lots of snow already.  We’re sick of it.   So the last thing a person wants to see as she prepares for the ‘Unofficial Kick-off to Summer”, is the fluffy white stuff…. actually its more like wet cold snow… you know… slush!

I’m not a camper, but I figure all the people that are getting ready to open up their cabins and bring their campers to a park, must be pretty sick right now.  Snow!  Gross!  I know,,, it has happened in the past.. but you never seem to get used to snow in May.  It should be a time for flowers, and shorts, and sandals… not winter coats and turtlenecks.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy your long weekend, and I hope the American’s get a better one starting May 23rd.

No matter, have fun, and drive safe.

Darlene

I love this story!  As most of you are aware, I am a red wine drinker.  I love wine, and I love all the nuances that go along with a particular bottle of wine.  I love to know when and where the grapes were picked, how it was aged, etc.   A few years back, I even took a vacation to the Napa Valley in California, and spent a week visiting vinyards and asking lots of questions.  By far my best vacation, and I plan to go back one day.

One evening as I was enjoying a particular good glass of wine, I wondered about the ‘Most Expensive Wine’ ever sold.  I come to find out it was in 1985, when Malcome Forbes paid $156,000 for a bottle of 1787 Chateau Lafitte Bordeaux,  believed to have been in the wine cellar of Thomas Jefferson.  (The 3rd President of the United States and the man who wrote the Declaration of Independence).   The sale of this bottle of wine was the subject of a book by Benjamin Wallace called ‘The Billionaire’s Vinegar”.  You see, the wine is undrinkable.  It is basically vinegar in a bottle.  But still, it is believed to have belonged to Thomas Jefferson at one point. 

The discoverer of the bottle was Hardy Rodenstock, a pop-band manager turned wine collector with a knack for finding extremely old and exquisite wines. But rumors about the bottle soon arose. Why wouldn’t Rodenstock reveal the exact location where it had been found? Was it part of a smuggled Nazi hoard? Or did his reticence conceal an even darker secret?  This is what the book is about, and I will definitely be adding it to my collection.

Enjoy the fermented grape!

Darlene

I couldn’t believe it.  After I wrote the article yesterday about how Chinese made products are taking over our homes, I look on the CNN web-page and there’s a story.  Some people in Florida are having to leave their homes and pay rent, because the drywall in the homes, which by the way has been made in China, are emitting gasses that are making them sick.   Read the full article here

http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/05/19/florida.drywall.remedies/index.html

We live in the age of information.  It is more easy to gain access to information and to share it than any other time in history.  Then why are people getting sick, and some dying, from Chinese made products?  Let me say right here that I know not every product made in China is faulty, poisonous, or tainted.  But we are buying baby food, pet food, toys and now drywall, that are not superior products. 

Let’s not assume China has the same ‘standards’ for safety and quality that Canada has.  Pay attention to what you are buying everyone.

Keep safe

Darlene

I was taken aback by the amount of hits my ‘Made in China’ artle has received.  I have received a walloping 1200% increase in my website readership by the ‘Made in China’ article.  I guess I am not the only one concerned with the safety of products Made in China, and the difficulty it is to buy from elsewhere.

From toothpaste tainted with an ingredient from anti-freeze to dangerous pet food,  we should be concerned.  The question is, can ‘Made in China’ be avoided.  Let me tell you, it’s tough.  As you may be aware, I am trying to avoid the ‘Made in China’ label.  Try buying a pair of sneakers that weren’t made in China.  Addidas – Made in China.. Reebok – Made in China. Sketchers – Made in China! 

Companies in China produce about 80 percent of the world’s wheat gluten, common in most breads, cakes and cookies, and 80 percent of its sorbic acid, a preservative used in just about everything.  It’s what makes your favorite bagel in the morning chewy!!  Then of course, there is the reaction…the Chinese governmenthas essentially fallen back on its tried-and-true method of dealing with such problems – a combination of silence, denials and old-fashioned scapegoating.

I think they need to learn a lesson from Michael McCain, President and CEO of McCain Foods.  When listeriosis was discovered in a Maple Leaf plant, Michael McCain stepped up to the plate and said ‘The Buck Stops Here’.  He took full responsibility and made a promise to Canadians that he would fix the problem, and provide safe products.  Let me tell you, because of his leadership I am buying Maple Leaf products today because of the integrity Mr. McCain showed during probably the most trying time of his career.  And I was thrilled to hear he had become 2008 CEO of the Year by the Canadian Press. 

Keep the comments coming.

Darlene

I wanted to share with you my experiement.  On May 1st, all cable and sattelite systems were unhooked from my house, and I am living a life without television.  Now, let me tell you, I have a television (obviously!)  But I use it for movie rentals, if it happens to be raining on a Saturday night.  Other than that, I have not watched television in over a month.

And you know what?  I don’t miss it!  I have wanted to do this since Britney Spears headlined the 6 p.m. news as the top story of day.  I thought, with everything that is happening in the world, you have got to be kidding me!  Now that was a couple of years ago, but its been a downhill slide since.  What really pushed me over the edge was ‘Reality TV STARS!”  People, Audrey Hepburn was a star, Heidi Montag and Spencer whatever his name is, is not!   I used to enjoy watching entertainment news shows as well, being a big fan of movies, but they continued to slide downhill as well.

So, here I am, almost 6 weeks later, and here’s the result so far.  I am reading on average 3 books a week.  My house is clean, I am in the best shape that I have been in years.  You see, with no television, I have more time to work out, to clean, to correspond more with family and friends, and of course for reading.  And the thing was, I was never a big television watcher.  But if you need more time in your evenings, un-plug the tv. 

I will keep you up to date. 

Darlene

       Sunday, June 21st is Father’s Day, and I just wanted to take a moment to salute all the good guys out there!   When I went to look for a picture of my dad, all I could find was this one, on the patio of my home, talking to someone.  How sad is it, that this is the only picture of my dad I have on computer.  I have others framed, in photo albums etc, but since the digital age, this is it.  I plan to rectify that in the coming year.

But I digress!   Today’s blog is to salute the man who raised three daughers and together with his wife, my mom, did it all in a small home and one bathroom.  That’s 4 women, 1 bathroom!  There’s a place reserved in heaven for Johnny!

He’ll be 79 soon, has an artificial hip, takes 1/2 pill a day, and more energy than any of his daughters.  When each of his daughters  wrecked his car, and we all did on separate occassions, the first question he asked ‘Was anyone hurt’.  He was the one who taught me ‘stuff’ is replaceable, people are not!

To the man who tolerated bad boyfriends, mood swings, bad hair days, and the pitfalls of brand name clothing.  To the man who never missed a school concert, and God forbid a sports game.  Who saw us through tough times and disappointment – and was there to celebrate with us the good grades, the seldom high scores and all of life’s good times.

Happy Father’s Day Johnny!

Darlene

This ought to get a few colorful comments started.  Let me start by saying, if you are easily offended on matters of Religion, stop reading now!

Many people ask me am I Religious?  To which I always reply ‘No’!  I am however, a big believer in Balance, Respect towards others, and the Ultimate Purpose of why we are here.  I consider myself more of a Spiritual person.   When I explain that to many people, I get looked at like I’m sprouting another head!  The next question tends to be ‘What’s the Difference?” 

I was raised Catholic.  And when I got old enough to start thinking for myself, I realized how much of what I was learning, I vehemently disagreed with.  I do believe in God, but I don’t believe in the Catholic Church’s viewpoints on birth control, living together, and I really disagree with covering up sexual abuse of a child just because the pervert who committed the crime was a priest.  

So here is what I think, and after all, the column is called ‘In My Opinion’.  I think a person can be ‘not Religious’, but still believe in God.    I don’t believe a person is a ‘Christian’ just because they say so.  I believe it has more to with how you live your life, as opposed to how holy you can look one hour per week in Church.  I believe the Catholic Church was at one time the ‘biggest business’ in the world, (think back 1000 years) and I believe that it is made up of human men, just men.  And all men make mistakes.  Every human being makes mistakes.

To err is human, to forgive Divine!  And remember, that’s  just my opinion.

Darlene

I love trying new wines, and on the recommendation of a fellow wine snob friend of mine (and by the way, wine snob is a compliment!), I tried the McManis Zinfandel tonight.  Now normally a California Zinfandel is soft for me, I really like a full-bodied wine with lots of bold taste.  But I was very impressed.  It has a rich dark color, and has the raspberry, blackberry and blueberry aromas.  Aged in French and American oak, this is a great wine to go with any meal or to drink by itself.  

I am really looking forward to trying the Cabernet Sauvignon.  I am a big Cab Sav fan and the 2007 harvest took place from later September to early October, which means a great tasting wine. 

Check them out for yourself at www.mcmanisfamilyvineyards.com

Till next time

Darlene

 Today marks 2 months in which I have not had a television.  I got to admit.  I still don’t miss it… that much.  I would have liked to watch some of the tributes when Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson died.  Not enough, mind you, to run out and get cable or satellite, but I have had moments.  Moments of missing what I considered quality programming.

I will say I miss the Food Network!  I love to cook, and I enjoy watching cooking shows.  I have gotten some great ideas from the Food Network, and I do miss that.   I also miss A & E and especially The Biography Channel.   I am fascinated by people’s lives and the path’s they take on their journey to get them to where they are.   And I miss W Network (The Women’s Network). From the style shows, to the home make-over shows and they always have great movies on Saturday night.

Network television – I do not miss.

Enjoy the summer!

Darlene

I love photography!  My friend Gary has introduced me to Flickr, the website where people can share their photographs.  I love this website, and especially like seeing the photos other people from Newfoundland have taken.  My friend Gary has taken some great photos, and if he lets me I will share his Flickr site, as I was looking at some of photos last night, and they are great.

One of the things I like the most about photography is that I have to take about 20 pictures before I get one that moves me.  I particularly like scenic photographs.  Here is my Flickr website, and feel free to browse and share any tips. 

All the pictures taken on my Flickr site were taken with a digital camera.  My favorite camer is an old Canon AL-1, pictured here.  I need to take about 50 pictures with this camera to get a great shot, but I love it.  It’s heavy and I love how the camera feels in my hand.  It was introduced in March of 1982, and discontinued in 1987,  so its an old camera.  I like it.

Here is my Flickr website if you would like to check out some pics.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/darmyers/

Enjoy, and any photography advice would be greatly appreciated.

Darlene

I am a believer of reincarnation.  I also believe in auras, senses and the power of the Universe.  It probably won’t come as any surprise that  I also believe in Indigo Children.   I am not that impressed with what I have found on the Web yet, as much of it relates to ‘disorders’ surrounding Indigo Children.  They are wise in the sense that you can feel there is something special about them, and you can also get the sense they are older beyond their years.

You probably have met children like that.  They have sayings that you often hear yourself say to your spouse, ‘Where did they pick that up’?  Or ‘They must have heard that somewhere’!

I have 2 nephews.  One, I believe to be a new soul, and it is so interesting watching him grow up.  There is no doubt in my mind the other is an Indigo Child.  Some of the characteristics of Indigo Children are extreme independence.  Some say they are restless, which I believe is because some other kids bore them, and they like to hang around adults.

I don’t like it when I read that Indigo Children are ‘A.D.D’ or emotionally unstable, or disrespectful, or a huge list of  derogatory words to describe these special children.  It drives me crazy when people feel the need to ’label’ something they don’t understand.  And especially if the label is unflattering.

 One great website I found was www.theindigochild.com

The term indigo was coined by a parapsychologist who developed a system of determining people’s personalities by the color of their auras.  The Indigo aura relates to the third eye and is said to be very intuitive, sensitive and deep feeling.

If you believe you may have an Indigo Child, a special child, or as someone from the above website wrote

““They know more of who they are and what they want,” she explains. “They’re not as willing to conform to the world the way it is.”
Check it out and cherish that very special child.

Darlene

It’s been 25 years since I’ve been back, way too much time has passed, since I visited Bonne Bay.   My father is from Bonne Bay and when my grandmother died 25 years ago, I never went back.  Moved away for 17 years, and so on, but recently I took my two nephews, 7 & 11, and off to Woody Point we went.

We had a great day.  We walked along the beach and picked up driftwood, shells and rocks.  We went to the Discovery Centre on the way to Trout River, and a fascinating look at the history of Gros Morne Park and the area itself, dating back thousands of years.  Woody Point hasn’t changed much.  I remember when the Woody Point Motel opened, it was owned by friends of my parents – the Martins.  You can’t imagine the thrill, as a young girl, being the first guests in the motel, when they opened for New Years’.  The motel is still there, but new owners.  Stopped at the house my father grew up in, and thought about all the changes.

If you want to head out for a great drive, head to Bonne Bay and enjoy all it has to offer.

Darlene

In South Africa he is known as Madiba, to the rest of the world he is known as the greatest activist, peace-maker, and statesman.  Yesterday, July 18th, 2009,  Nelson Mandela turned 91.

I wanted to pay tribute to a man who had sacrificed 27 years of his life in prison so that other people could enjoy the taste of freedom.   When Oprah interviewed him, she wrote “For 27 years the architects of South African apartheid jailed his body–but they couldn’t touch his soul.”    He was sentenced for fighing segregation in South Africa,  and later became President of South Africa.  But I think he will be known most for emerging from prision not a bitter man, but one that defined peace and dignity.

 In 1993, he won the Nobel Peace Prize.   The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded “to the person who shall have done the most or best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses.” 

Happy Birthday to the man who took a stand for freedom, and didn’t let the indignities he suffered into his soul.

Darlene

I recently got to try a Chateaunneuf de Pape for the first time.  Many of my wine loving friends have told me it is by far their favorite wine, but when the ‘cheapest’ bottle in our liquor store starts at $50, its not something you want to gamble on.

Recently friends of mine were given a bottle, and they knew I had been dying to try a Chateaunneuf de Pape, so they saved it till I came over, and we opened it up.  And I have to say, I was not disappointed.   I loved the smoothness of the wine.   And although it was smooth, it has enough body to enjoy with many foods, including a steak.  Chateaunneuf du Pape is known as a ‘food wine’, because it goes great with most foods.

I am also a fan of packaging, and this was one of the best.  They have made it look like an ‘old antique’ bottle, and I loved it.  More so, I loved the wine inside.

Chateaunneuf du Pape is a wine named after a region of the same name in the Rhone Wine region of France.   Chateaunneuf du Pape means “the Pope’s new castle” and dates back to 1308 when Pope Clement V became a big fan of the wine and the wine became known as ‘Vin de Pape’ or Wine of the Pope.   And a little later the term was changed to Chateaunneuf du Pape. 

If you have more brands of this wine that you have tried and enjoyed, please let me know.

Enjoy!

Darlene

Today is my birthday.  For the first time in a long time, I am away on business, away from  family and friends.  I usually spend my birthday is the great company of my friends, and we drink wine, and rejoice in the celebration that we are all healthy.  We don’t take it for granted.  It’s a gift, and we celebrate and rejoice that very precious gift.

Being away from everyone, though, gives me a chance to reflect at some of the things I would like to accomplish in the coming year.   I think of Morgan Freeman’s line from the movie “The Bucket List”….

Have you found joy?

Have you brought joy to others.

I think that’s a great start to the upcoming 12 months.  When I took this assignment, which meant being away from home for the better part of a year, I had some things I wanted to accomplish.  I wanted to read more.  With no television – that’s being done.   I wanted to get in better shape – again with no television in my life, I get closer to that goal every day with exercise.  I wanted to volunteer more (need to check into that) and I wanted to improve upon my public speaking.

One of the great joys in my life is sitting down with a good book and a glass of wine.   I am doing that, which brings alot of joy to myself.  Plus, exercising 6 out of 7 days a week, and the results I am seeing, is also bringing joy.  So,  although I miss family and friends a great deal, I am finding joy in this assignment.  Not to mention the joy that accomplishing the task will bring.  That brings me to the bringing joy to others.  I am putting this in writing, I am going to volunteer more.  It is important that I find something that brings joy to others, who otherwise may not be experiencing joy in their lives.

Any suggestions?

Darlene

         I am a big fan of Photography!  I love taking pictures, and I love looking at pictures.  I enjoy the entire process, which for me, means taking about 50 pictures to get one that really moves me.

Recently I was curious about the what Time Magazine and National Geographic had considered the Top 10 Photos of 2008.  Above is a picture of Cindy McCain, taking a rest wtih a glass of white wine, while campaigning with her husband, John McCain.   It was taken by TIME Photographer Christopher Morris and it was one of Time Magazine’s Top 10 Photos of 2008.   Check out all 10 photos from Time Magazine at this link.

http://www.time.com/time/specials/2008/top10/article/0,30583,1855948_1864580,00.html

I really like taking pictures of nature.   I also like viewing pictures of nature.  So of course my favorite pictures of 2009 came from National Geographic.   Check them out.

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/12/photogalleries/top-ten-photos/photo10.html

One of my favorites was the volcano erupting in Chile.  Now that was a photograph.  And please feel free to check out some of the pictures I have taken on my flickr site.

Enjoy

Darlene

I was reading a Time Magazine article recently on mourning the lost art of Handwriting.  Here is the article if you would like to read it as well. 

http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1912419,00.html

And I would like to add a few comments.  I realize there is a young generation of people that text more than they talk, however, one day these people want to enter the work force.  My advice is don’t let the handwriting skills slip you by, and face to face communication skills are needed if you are going to succeed.  So its fine to text, I do it myself, but you have to open yourself to and learn other forms of communication.

I have been stating for a long time that the generation of young people who soley communicate through computer, and their free time is spent with an X-Box, are not doing themselves any favors, because in the Business world, a broader skill set is needed.  Unless all these young people intend to be computer programmers, they need to broaden their horizons.

It’s up to us to ensure our young people read more, write more and learn more than what’s available on an X-Box.   And don’t forget to write that handwritten note. 

Darlene

Today marks 3 months, as I continue my journey through this time in my life with no television.   I’m still not tempted to hook up with satellite or cable. 

This month I have hooked up with another favorite pasttime – crossword puzzles.  I used to love crossword puzzles, especially the Sunday Crossword from the Washington Post and New York Times.  I got out of the habit.  But now I am back in the swing of things, and enjoy sitting down on Sundays with a cup of coffee and a pen (yes, a pen) and my favorite crossword.

Have also read a few great books… (a couple of not so great books).  Reading ‘The Pact’ by Jody Picoult right now and really enjoying that.  I also enjoyed Denzel Washington’s ‘A Hand to Guide Me’, and one of my favorites so far this summer has been Richard Paul Evans ‘The Last Promise’.  Great summer pick.

I have also watched a few movies including ‘Angels and Demons’ with Tom Hanks, which I liked more than the movie ‘Davinci Code’.  Ewan McGregor was great in this movie.

And I have been writing in my blog more.  Good or bad, there you have it.

Hope you’re enjoying your summer!

Darlene

I had the pleasure today of taking the Bay Roberts Shoreline Heritage Walk.   This beautiful walk along the shoreline and cliffs of the ocean surrounding Bay Roberts is instant stress relief.  Developed by the Bay Roberts Heritage Society, they have done a great job of paying honor to the past while at the same time enjoying nature.

You can stand on the spot where French fishermen toiled as far back as the 1500′s.  As a matter of fact, there is a small graveyard, as part of the walk, with gravestones dating back to 1676 I believe, and some of the 1700′s.  Very cool. 

There are more pictures of this beautiful outing on their website at

http://www.bayroberts.com/shoreline.htm

If you are travelling the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland anytime soon, take it in.  You won’t regret it.

Darlene

The province of Alberta is considering introducing a ‘distracted driving bill’ this fall, which basically means the days of talking on a cell phone, eating fast food while driving and applying make up could be numbered.   It would lump a number of ‘driving faux-pas’ into one law, and make it against the law to be engaging in activities that take the focus away from the road.

It’s about time!  But I will say this, it’s one thing to make it a law, it’s another thing to enforce it.  In the province of Newfoundland it is already illegal to talk on a cell phone while driving a car.  However, every second vehicle in this province, you will see a driver with a cell phone to his or her ear.  It’s not enforced.  Eating and applying make up are bad enough, but the other day I saw a driver with a newspaper across his steering wheel, while driving down the highway.  Isn’t it ironic that as citizens we see these but yet these people never seems to get stopped by the police. 

Texting has become a nightmare on the road.  You simply are not able to type while keep your eyes on the road.  No one is that good.  It’s dangerous, and you are 23 more times at a risk to get in an accident.  And you know what, I’m going out on a limb here, but if you get in an accident and harm someone because of cell phones, texting or other distractions, you should have your drivers license taken away from you.

Driving is not a God-given right, it is a privilege.  If you abuse that privilege, you should lose it.

Drive safe everyone

Darlene

  I have been vacationing in Newfoundland this summer, taking in the many sites and tourist attractions.  Seeing many places for the first time ever. 

In August, I took my two nephews to Gros Morne National Park.  We went rock exploring in Green Point, and went to the Marine Discovery Centre in Norris Point.

This is one of my favorite photos of the day.  Brady is looking over a cliff into the ocean, hoping to see some fish.  His little brother Riley is making sure he doesn’t lean over too far.  He wasn’t asked to… he just did it.  It’s one of those priceless pictures.

We even saw a moose.  I’ll be posting more pictures on flickr soon.

September is just around the corner.  I hope you enjoyed your summer.

Darlene

“American children and adolescents spend 22 to 28 hours per week viewing television, more than any other activity except sleeping. By the age of 70 they will have spent 7 to 10 years of their lives watching TV.”
– The Kaiser Family Foundation

Today is September 1st, and marks 4 months I have had no television.  Fall is just around the corner and with much longer evenings (is it really only 8:36 p.m.) and all the shows starting up, does it get tempting…. a little!

So, I did a little browsing around the internet.  Check out some of the facts at www.turnoffyourtv.com.  Some of the info will blow your mind.   There is concern that television is turning us into a nation of morons.. (not my words).   Plus, here are five more reasons to turn off your tv.. even for a week!  Try it for one week and see what happens.

1.  You’ll start cooking real meals, because you wont be late for that tv show.

2.  You will start exercising more

3.  You’ll read more books

4.  Spend more time with the important people in your life.

5.  You’ll get more projects completed.

Please let me know how your week without television went.

Looking forward to hearing

Darlene

I own a beautiful condominium on the Humber River, on Newfoundland’s West Coast.  And I am selling it.  I would also be willing to rent it to the right person.  I am attaching some pictures.  Feel free to pass it along to your friends.

Please feel free to write me at darlenemyers@hotmail.com if you have any questions.

For all those ladies over 40!   In case you missed it on 60 Minutes, this is what Andy Rooney thinks about women over 40:

60 Minutes Correspondent Andy Rooney (CBS)

As I grow in age, I value women over 40 most of all. Here are just a few reasons why: A woman over 40 will never wake you in the middle of the night and ask, ‘What are you thinking?’ She doesn’t care what you think. If a woman over 40 doesn’t want to watch the game, she doesn’t sit around whining about it. She does something she wants to do, and it’s usually more interesting. Women over 40 are dignified. They seldom have a screaming match with you at the opera or in the middle of an expensive restaurant. Of course, if you deserve it, they won’t hesitate to shoot you if they think they can get away with it. Older women are generous with praise, often undeserved. They know what it’s like to be unappreciated. Women get psychic as they age. You never have to confess your sins to a woman over 40.

Once you get past a wrinkle or two, a woman over 40 is far sexier than her younger counterpart. Older women are forthright and honest. They’ll tell you right off if you are a jerk if you are acting like one. You don’t ever have to wonder where you stand with her. Yes, we praise women over 40 for a multitude of reasons. Unfortunately, it’s not reciprocal. For every stunning, smart, well-coiffed, hot woman over 40, there is a bald, paunchy relic in yellow pants making a fool of himself with some 22-year old waitress. Ladies, I apologize.

For all those men who say, ‘Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free?’, here’s an update for you. Nowadays 80% of women are against marriage. Why? Because women realize it’s not worth buying an entire pig just to get a little sausage!

Frank O’Dea, the co-founder of the Second Cup Coffee chain and founder of Proshred Documents is speaking at the St. John’s Board of Trade today.  I wont be able to see Mr. O’Dea speak but I have ordered a copy of his book “When All You Have Is Hope”! 

This is a man who at 23 years old, was a homeless person.  As he says he was 30 years away from receiving the Order of Canada, he was 20 years away from a marriage and family, 10 years away from earning his first million, and one week away from deciding he had to change or die.

The following is an excerpt from Frank O’Dea’s book ‘When All You Have Is Hope”!

THE POWER OF HOPE VISION ACTION

With hope – all things become possible.
With hope, one has the courage to change the present into a very different future.
With hope, dreams are possible;
With hope one has the persistence to follow the dream and
With hope one can – and will – become much more than you ever dreamed possible.

Here’s hoping you have the Power of Hope working for you.

Darlene

This is what courage looks like!  He is 28 years old and for many months carried the burden of being the sole survivor of a helicopter crash that killed 17 other people including friends and co-workers.  On November 5th,  not only family and friends of the victims, but the entire province was riveted to the television screen as Robert Decker spoke of the experience for the first time.

What I walked away from, was not the details of the crash, or how he survived.  It was the statement he read, honestly and openly telling people, he doesn’t know why he was the lone survivor.  Of course he doesn’t!  From what I can gather, when the helicopter hit the water, he was knocked out.  It’s probably a fair guess that others were knocked out as well.  He regained consciousness.  There was a window above him. 

Many people would like to call it luck, or fate!  I prefer it to call it a gift.  The man on the television yesterday was stoic and brave and every single Newfoundlander as well as every Canadian was proud to call this young man was of their own.  I am saddened for the loss of 17 lives and my heart goes out to their family and friends. 

But I am also hopeful!   Hopeful because this amazing man was given a gift, and I think he will take that gift and give it back many times over.  I believe we are going to see amazing things from this amazing man.

Darlene

I wish there was something I could do to help some people relieve the stress of Christmas.   I do my part for needy families and charities, but I’m talking about everyday people like you and me who seem to get over-whelmed this time of year.  From co-workers to friends, you hear about the ‘stresses’ of Christmas and the pressure to get the hottest most expensive items.  What if everyone made it a point to bring Christmas back to a simpler time.

Case in point.  When we were young we were given a few gifts, which included pajamas, one toy of choice, socks and a few other goodies.  I would never dream of asking my parents for a computer or anything that cost in the range of $700.  In our stockings we received an apple, and orange, some candy canes and a choclate Santa.  My favorite part was the 5-point apples (as my dad used to call them).  The Red Delicious apples that my mom and dad only bought once per year.  It was my favorite part of the stocking.  There were no $200 mp-3 players in our stockings, our total gifts didn’t come to $200.   We just didn’t have it. 

And the thing is, we weren’t poor, we were middle class.  and I know our salaries have not increased by 500%, so why has our spending for this season increased by 500%?

It’s up to each and every one of us to simplify this holiday again.  Enjoy it…please!

Darlene

I have been putting a bit of pressure on myself to write my first blog of 2010, and then I realized, that if I had made a resolution to write at least once a week, I would have not succeeded.  And I didn’t want to get discouraged.  So it got me thinking!

Today is Thursday, January 14th and do you know that 75% have hit a snag by now, and that by March, that same percentage of people will drop them.   You know the drill.  We have all done it.  We get up January 1st and we are losing weight, getting in shape, eating better, taking more time for myself, reading more books and the list can go on and on.  Or, you could be like my sister, who insists on starting her New Year’s resolution on the first Monday following New Years Day.  Oh yes, this year Jackie started on Monday, January 4th.  After all, she wasn’t losing 3 whole days of eating.

The problem with people setting a ‘time to start’ of say 3 days ahead, you know what happens.  You eat more in that 3 days than you normally would, reassuring yourself you are going to start Monday, and by Friday, you have fallen off that bandwagon faster than a dog can lick himself!

My resolutions this year were pretty simple.  I wanted to travel to someplace new, which I am working on right now, going to make that happen in March with my 2 fabulous friends Maureen and Judy.  And I wanted to continue working out, something I started back in August of 2009.  And I’m proud to say in the last 14 days I have worked out 11 of them.   I kept it to two, and kept it pretty simple.

I hope you are taking the steps, baby steps even, to accomplishing even one of the things you set out to do in 2010.

Thanks for Reading

Dar

Hey, it’s going to be a short weekend.  We lose an hour, because this is the weekend our clocks move ahead one hour into Daylight Saving Time.  I know, it seems really early to me too, but I have to admit, I am going to enjoy the longer evenings.   And the one hour of our weekend we use, worth it.

Daylight Saving Time is four weeks longer since 2007 due to the passage of the Energy Policy Act in 2005. The Act extended Daylight Saving Time by four weeks from the second Sunday of March to the first Sunday of November, with the hope that it would save 10,000 barrels of oil each day through reduced use of power by businesses during daylight hours. Unfortunately, it is exceedingly difficult to determine energy savings from Daylight Saving Time and based on a variety of factors, it is possible that little or no energy is saved by Daylight Saving Time.

Now, I have never noticed any change in heat or light bills for me.  How about you?  And if you do, what part of the world do you live in?

Look forward to hearing from you

Darlene

I was reading something the other day and it really hit a chord. 

‘We buy things we don’t need with money we don’t have to impress people we don’t even like’.  

Do you realize that the saddest part of that statement is that it is absolutely TRUE!  And I started thinking when did all this madness begin.  Because you can only call it madness when a person would rack up a credit card bill buying stuff that is not necessary to our survival, ie food, water, or transportation – and all to impress who, exactly?  I like to call this madness ‘Stuff-itis’, because it has to be a disease!  How can we cure it.

I think of my mother, the sweetest woman you’ll ever meet.  But she is so concerned as to what other people think –  even is she doesn’t like anything about this person.  It boggles my mind.  Why would you care what someone thought if this person goes against everything you believe in?  Wouldn’t you ever WANT to agree with someone who goes against your personal belief system?

And, every day I see ‘stuff’ sitting out in people’s driveways that cost big money, but they don’t use.  Wouldn’t this money be better spent on something that allows you quality time with your kids, family or friends?

On this upcoming Easter weekend, let’s all take stock of how we each throw money away on the ‘stuff’ and let’s see how we can put that money to better use.  Take your kids on a day outing, donate to a cause that is special to you, use the money to buy food for a food bank, or support the local animal shelter. 

Let’s end ‘Stuff-itis’ and do something useful with that money!!

Happy Easter

Darlene

I have just returned from a one week cruise on Liberty of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship.  I loved it.  This wasn’t my first cruise with Royal Caribbean, it was my 3rd, and I love them.  This was my 6th cruise over all, and Liberty of the Seas did not disappoint. 

The ship was beautiful, clean and staffed with extremely friendly staff.  The food was fabulous, as usual for Royal Caribbean, so I got to know the Fitness Centre as well, in an effort to keep as many pounds at bay as possible.  

The comedians were funny, the Cruise Director was entertaining as well, but I was a little disappointed in the show put off solely by the Dancers and Singers.   There was one show, Gallery of Dreams, and although some of the cast were talented, it wasn’t really my type of show.

Overall, I would go on this ship again, or one of her sister ships, Freedom of the Seas or Independence of the Seas. 

Next stop…… Europe on a Cruise Ship.

Darlene

It seems like every time I turn around, there is another case of Animal Abuse in the news.  Something has to be done, and in my opinion, it starts with tougher penalties.   Something should also be done to the Provincial Animal Protection Act.  This act is supposed to protect animals, but in many ways it’s a joke.  

If a person shoots a moose in the province of Newfoundland, out of season, even if it is to feed his family, he is heavily fined, loses his truck, and possibly jailed.   Fines for abusing animals start at $50 in this province.   It was Gandhi who said ‘The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated’.    What does it say about us that so many animal abusers are allowed to get away with it.  And if they are charged, fines start at a measly $50.  Moral progress, I don’t think so. 

So let’s petition government.  Here in Newfoundland it is Natural Resources Minister Kathy Dunderdale.  Let’s get this act changed and let’s crack down on the monsters who abuse animals.  Go to an SPCA website and sign the petitions.   here’s one web address you can use for the St. John’s SPCA.  http://www.spcastjohns.org/ 

thanks 

Darlene & Tigger     

Today, May 1st, marks 12 months for me without television.  It is said people, including children, watch 22 to 28 hours of television per week.  Well, these are some of the things I have accomplished in these additional hours to my week.

1.  I have read approximately 104 books.  Books help the brain from going soft.   It has opened my mind.

2.  I have practiced and fine-tuned my public speaking abilities.  I have taken the opportunity to speak in public when-ever asked.  It has opened doors.

3.  I exercise 4 times a week.  It has opened a better mind and body and a much better attitude.

4.  I do at least one crossword puzzle per week.  A difficult one.  It makes me think.

It has been said with the amount of television most people watch, it has created a nation of morons.  I don’t think television is all bad, there are things we can learn from some very great channels.   But these aren’t the ‘highly watched channels’.  But for the most part there are 315 channels of nothing on. 

And 15 minutes of fame, a celebrity does not make.  Just because someone is on tv, does not make them a star.  Audrey Hebpurn was a star, Katherine Hepburn was a star, a person on a reality show is not a star.

Enjoy today television free.

Darlene

Today Moneysense Magazine listed Bay Roberts, Newfoundland as the worst place to live in Canada.  I have to wonder if the person who made that designation has ever been to Bay Roberts.

As a brand new resident of Bay Roberts, I think it is a fantastic place to live.   it is a vibrant community with lots of cultural activities and events.   It has a very progressive town council and the people who work for the town are forward-thinkers who are constantly trying to improve.  How many other towns do you know of that are constantly trying to improve and make itself better.  That attitude alone makes it one of the best places to live in Canada.

There are events like the ‘A Time in Pigeon Inlet’ series that brings people from across Newfoundland and across Canada, and the Klondyke Festival is known island wide.  To name just a few.

The author of the article based his reasoning on high unemployment, low average household income and a dismal cultural industry.  Well I am employed full time, enjoy the benefits of an above average income and enjoy the many cultural events in Bay Roberts.

Just my opinion! 

Darlene

Hi Everyone,

If you are a regular reader of my blog, you know that I love Red Wine!  And I love experimenting and trying new wines.  I have tried some new wines lately that have been fabulous and I thought I would share.

I have tried a 2007 Chateau Mouton Rothschild Bordeaux – a nice different wine.  I don’t drink alot of Bordeaux’s so I found this one really different but very enjoyable, and at approximately $16 per bottle, its worth a try.

Probably the best buy in the Liquor Store right now is a 2006 Robert Mondavi Private Selection Meritage.  At just under $20, its extremely smooth and easy to drink.  The name Robert Mondavi is synonymous with California wine and this one does not disappoint.   Dark fruits with plum and black cherry notes, this wine goes with everything.

My recent ‘treat wine’, you know what I mean…. the wines you don’t buy all the time, and you treat yourself to a good bottle.  Well my recent treat wine was a La Fiole Chateau du neuf du Pape.   Apparently this is one of the biggest selling Chateau neuf du Pape’s in the world and the reason being is consistent great wine year after year.  This wine is made up of  80% Grenache, 7% Syrah, 7% Mourvedre, and 6% Cinsault.  Aged for 1 to 5 years in oak casks this is a beauty.

Definitely a wine worth sharing, they all are.

Cheers

Darlene

Welcome to Summer 2010.  Today is June 21st.  The first day of summer.  Where I am now its raining, foggy and a little cold.  And its Monday, so it does feel like the longest day of the year!  Ha, only kidding. 

However, I love the first day of summer.  I love the longer days and sitting out on the patio, and barbecuing and everything else that goes with summer.  Ok, I don’t like the bugs, but unless you’re an entomologist, who does.  What are you doing this summer.  There is so much happening in Newfoundland and Labrador this summer, I don’t think there will be one boring moment.

Cupids 400 is a year long celebration with something for everyone.  Festivals and concerts are happening across the province, A Time in Pigeon Inlet returns this summer.  Plus there’s all the free stuff to do in Newfoundland.  I hiked Mad Rock again this past weekend, and I loved it.  Keep in mind there are walking trails and hiking trails all across the island with spectacular views.  Take advantage – it’s free!

Get out and explore this great island.  One of the things I didn’t get to do last year was the Cape St. Mary’s Bird Sanctuary, so that’s on the list this year, as well as bunch of other events.

Enjoy – Summer is extremely short and sweet in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Darlene

It’s a moment that I’m after, a fleeting moment, but not a frozen moment.
Andrew Wyeth

And with that quote from Andrew Wyeth, I realize the end of summer is just around the corner, and before I know it, there will be more frozen moments in my day than warm ones.  But that’s a part of life when you live in the North.   Although it is August, already I have to put on a long sleeve fleece to barbecue in the evenings.   And as I read about heat waves in other parts of the country and in the United States, I can’t help but wonder how it came to pass us by.  I have had the fan on in my house three times this year. 

However, as sad as I am, realizing that while I was waiting for Summer and the warm weather, the summer months has passed by.  How was your summer?  Did you do anything memorable?  I recently heard that the older you get, the faster time flies.  That makes me really old I guess… Summer flew by really fast.

Enjoy

Darlene

It’s hard to believe!  The Labor Day Long Weekend is upon us which signals the end of Summer.  I know Summer doesn’t officially end until September 20th, but let’s face it, once Labor Day Weekend is over with and the kids head back to school, Summer is over in our minds.

As we enjoy our last weekend of Summer, there are lots of things to do around Newfoundland and Labrador.  This is the last weekend for ‘A Time in Pigeon Inlet’ in Bay Roberts, featuring the talented Kelly Russell.  Also, there’s a Logger’s Festival taking place in Gambo, and the Men’s Soccer Championship in St. Lawrence.  Or you could plan to go camping, as many provincial parks will close after this weekend.

Or, if you are like me, you’re going to stick close to home this weekend and use the extra day to get a few extra things done around the house.  Weed-whacking is going to part of my long weekend excitement.   That and some housework, do a little cooking, drink a little red wine.

I, for one, am really looking forward to the long weekend.  Stay safe, and please don’t drive over the speed limit.  The highways are going to be busier than usual, so keep that in mind, and keep your patience in check.  Road rage has zero benefit to anyone.  And if you’re going to have a drink, stay at home or call a cab.

Cheers,

Darlene

Emerson Drive sings a song called ‘The Extra Mile’.   Here is an excerpt from the lyrics.

I’m that smile you give a stranger
When you’d rather turn your head
I’m that book you read your children
When you’d rather be in bed

I’m forgiveness that you give
When you don’t think you can
Forgive somebody one more time

I love this song.   Every time I hear it I try to think of all the people I’ve witnessed that have gone the extra mile.  Like all the people who gave this past week in Newfoundland for the people who were devastated by Hurricane Igor.    Over 1 million dollars was raised from a province in Canada with only 550,000 people.  Wow, a great show of humanity.

I try to forget the young man I saw parking in handicapped parking on his way to the liquor store on the same day so many people were doing kind things for others.  Or the young girl finishing a drink and tossing the can in the street.  On a day when Newfoundland made National news for its kindness, I just want to say to you folks, you are an embarrassment in our province.  For those of you who park in Fire Lanes, Handicapped parking, or if you litter, drive a vehicle while texting or talking on a cell, you are showing a tremendous amount of dis-respect for the people around you.     Let’s all of try to go that Extra Mile, and it doesn’t have to be a monetary donation to help those less fortunate.  Let’s start  by respecting others and the environment we live in.

Darlene



As most of you know, I gave up television 18 months ago.  The main reason was the on-slaught of 15-minute stars who seem to be dominating the television and thus the lives of many people.   For the life of me, I can’t understand why we are obsessed with Lindsay Lohan, Lady GaGa, Kim Kardashian and even Snooki and The Situation.  For some bizarre reason, we are putting on a pedestal talentless people who are making no contribution to making the world a better place.

I just don’t get it!

Road rage is on the rise, oil reserves are on the decrease.  We are on high terrorist alert in many parts of the world, and global hunger is still a huge concern with 9 million children dying of hunger before reaching the age of 5.  I have never watched ‘Keeping Up With The Kardashians’, but I’m curious, what are they doing about global hunger?   Is it just me, or are more people going day to day in a state of unconscious awareness. 

This is my blog to ask people to turn off the television for one day!  It doesn’t have to be today, as the rescue of the Miners in Chile is truly a heartwarming experience, as they come to the surface after 69 days trapped.  Put yourself in that capsule for one minute, and what would you do with your day today.  Would you watch tv?  Do you think any of those miners are going to spend today watching tv?

Something to think about.

Darlene

Happy Mother’s Day to all the Mom’s out there. 

Today is a day I think back to my special mom.  All the times she wiped my nose, kissed my boo-boos and even got me a cold face-cloth and a glass of water during my first hang-over.  I was and still am a very lucky girl.  I was blessed with one of the good Mothers.

My wish for this Mother’s Day is this:

1.  I hope a cure is found for all diseases afflicting children. 

2.  I hope in the coming year we pull together as a global community and that less children go hungry.

3.  I hope more children are kept safe from violence, abuse and other atrocities inflicted upon children.

Have a Happy Mother’s Day and a big Thank You.

Darlene

www.xmasclock.com

As I am writing this blog, we have 48 days, 8 hours and 49 minutes to Christmas.  That time is going to extremely fast.   What makes me chuckle is that people still find themselves in a panic to get ready.  It comes every year, and on the same date every year.  Yet somehow many people tend to stress themselves out – over something that’s going to come and go whether you’re ready or not!  So relax, and enjoy the season.

My Christmas wish this year is for every person who reads this blog to ‘Pay it Forward’ in some way.  Do something nice for a complete stranger.  Help feed someone who is hungry, give a gift to a person who probably wont have a lot under the tree.   It is estimated 19.6% of the children in this country, (yeah, Canada!) live in poverty.   These children go to our schools and live in our communities.

Let’s give them a Hand-Up this Christmas, and maybe one day, they will be in a position to do the same one year.