BearNaked

Thank You and an Update

2009-02-18T00:01:00.006-05:00

Thank you everyone for your kind words and emails.
Monsieur Bear is doing FANTASTIC.
I am in the hospital AGAIN for my shoulder for another procedure.
When I get out I will be sure to let you all know how (and if ) there are any improvements.
I just wanted to let everyone know how VERY much we have appreciated all the kind words and prayers coming our way.
I am sure that that is why Monsieur Bear has got better so soon.
Thanks again to everyone out in the blogosphere.

An Update and Thank You

2009-01-20T00:01:00.001-05:00

Thank you to everyone for your kind comments and e-mails.
Monsieur Bear is now home after having a heart attack. Every thing looks much better now this week.
The prognosis looks good and I am so grateful to all the medical staff and the paramedics who have helped us get through this crisis.
I will be suspending my blogging for the time being but we again want to thank EVERYONE for your kind comments and well wishes.
When I have more time (and energy) I will be back blogging.
Until then, I remain--

Medical Emergency

2009-01-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

Monsieur Bear has had a medical emergency.

I will be back later.

Saturday Funnies

2009-01-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

Physical Fitness Helps Brains

2009-01-09T00:01:00.001-05:00

From CTV.ca News Staff
*

"New research from the University of Calgary is providing yet another reason for women to stay physically active as they age.
The study, which is published in the international journal Neurobiology of Aging, has found that women who stay physically fit help their brains to function at optimum levels.
Marc Poulin, the senior author of the study, says physical activity helps blood flow in the brain -- and that leads to better cognitive abilities.
"The vascular benefits of exercise that have been reported previously in the heart and muscles are also conferred to the brain ... There are vascular benefits to the brain, as well, from exercise," he told CTV.ca by phone from the University of Calgary's Faculty of Medicine.
The study, entitled the "Effects of Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Cerebral Blood Flow on Cognitive Outcomes in Older Women," compared two groups of women whose mean age was 65 years old. It looked at a random sample of 42 women living in Calgary, splitting them into two groups. One group took part in regular aerobic activity and the other group of women was relatively sedentary.
Researchers then recorded and measured the women's cardiovascular health, resting brain blood flow and the reserve capacity of blood vessels in the brain, as well as cognitive functions.
Poulin says that the study proves for the first time that people who are fit have better blood flow to the brain.
"Our contribution is that we show there are benefits (from exercise) to blood vessels in the brain," he said.
The scientists found that compared to the inactive group, the active group had:
Ten per cent lower resting and exercising arterial blood pressure.
Five per cent higher vascular responses in the brain during submaximal exercise.
Ten per cent higher cognitive function scores, when the levels of carbon dioxide in the blood were elevated.
Poulin says the take home message from his study is simple: exercise helps women's cognition as they grow older. But he also said it also suggests that men could benefit as well -- along with younger women.
"The thing with exercise is that it has the potential to impact one's health at any age," he said."

So another good reason to get off my butt and to continue with my exercises every day, if I want to lose these 23 extra pounds that I have put on.

And maybe help with my brain functioning properly.

Rest In Peace

2009-01-08T00:01:00.003-05:00

--------------------------Trooper Brian Richard Good

Another Canadian soldier was killed by a roadside bomb in the northern part of Afghanistan's Kandahar province early Wednesday, say military officials.
The soldier died when an improvised explosive device detonated near the armoured vehicle in which he was travelling. Three other soldiers were injured in the incident in the Shah Wali Kowt district, about 35 kilometres north of the city of Kandahar.
Trooper Brian Richard Good, 42, was a member of the Royal Canadian Dragoons, serving with the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment and stationed at the eastern Ontario Canadian Forces Base Petawawa.
Col. Jamie Cade, acting commander of Task Force Kandahar, described Good as an easygoing individual who would do anything for anyone.
"He was active in his community and the best neighbour you could ask for," said Cade.
"He had a distinctive laugh, a smile that reached from ear to ear. He is best remembered by his friends in the battle group for his love for his family; he spoke of them often."
Good leaves behind his wife, Sandra, and two daughters.

The fatality brings Canada's troop death toll in Afghanistan to 107 since the mission began in 2002.

And so again we stand on the Highway Of Heroes to pay our respects.
Rest in peace our 107th Canadian Hero.

ABC Wednesday-Y

2009-01-07T00:01:00.001-05:00

YOGA is believed to calm the nervous system and balance the body, mind, and spirit. It is thought by its practitioners that YOGA prevents specific diseases and maladies by keeping the energy meridians open and life energy flowing.

YOGA is usually performed in classes, sessions are conducted at least once a week and for approximately 45 minutes. YOGA has been used to lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and improve co-ordination, flexibility, concentration, sleep, and digestion.

*
For people with heart problems, studies have shown YOGA to help people young and old. Specifically, YOGA seems to promote heart health in several ways, including regulating high blood pressure and improving resistance to psychological stress.

ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

The Epiphany

2009-01-06T00:01:00.004-05:00

The three Wise Men (called in that time "magicians", although they were actually astronomers) saw from the far east the birth of a star over the town of Bethlehem, and they discovered the meaning behind the star: a savior had been born. They traveled to Bethlehem, and along the way they found King Herod, whom they told of the birth of the new King. Herod ordered them to find the baby and return to give the news of the place where the little Messiah had been born.

Melchor, Gaspar and Baltasar found the baby in a manger where they offered their treasured gifts for the baby Jesus: Gold, which represented the spiritual wealth of the child; Frankincense, which signifies the earth and the sky; and Myrrh, the oil which was used for medicinal as well as spiritual purposes.

An angel warned them that they should not tell King Herod about the birth of Jesus because his plan was to kill the baby. So the three Wise Men returned by way of a different path to their homeland.

I'm Not Fat---

2009-01-05T00:01:00.007-05:00

------------------I'm Fluffy

Also known as "Does this make my butt look bigger?"

It's that time of the year, the post-holiday season, when I finally got up enough nerve to step back on the bathroom scale. Yes I will admit that I have avoided checking my weight for the past three weeks. I considered the scale avoidance as my own little seasonal personal gift from me to me.

Why worry about it if you have no real evidence--right?---right???
Other than the fact that you are at your most comfortable wearing only a t-shirt, your LARGE t-shirt. Or the difficulty you have been encountering when you have to get dressed up and those pesky zippers on EVERYTHING in your closet are not working properly.

So I bit the bullet and stepped on the scale.

I gained three pounds!!!
Yikes that means I have to now lose 23 pounds.
Monsieur Bear lost a pound.

I am not speaking to him.

Saturday Funnies

2009-01-03T01:44:00.002-05:00

Christmas Gift

2009-01-02T00:01:00.001-05:00

I might be a little late in getting around to everyone's blog because I am busy reading John Grisham's novel "The Appeal," one of my Christmas gifts.

From the Publisher:

Politics has always been a dirty game.Now justice is, too.
In a crowded courtroom in Mississippi, a jury returns a shocking verdict against a chemical company accused of dumping toxic waste into a small town’s water supply, causing the worst “cancer cluster” in history. The company appeals to the Mississippi Supreme Court, whose nine justices will one day either approve the verdict or reverse it."

Again, another gripping novel written by John Grisham (his 19th.)
Grisham is one of my favourite authors.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T00:01:00.004-05:00

Courtesy of JeanMac

Happy New Year

And from Daryl.

ABC Wednesday-X

2008-12-31T00:01:00.001-05:00

Instead of seeing a typical client, veterinarian Hal Blumenthal was confronted with a very different patient -- an apparently rare teddy bear urgently in need of an X-ray.

Specialists suspected the bear was an original Steiff bear, but needed to know if the roughly 100-year-old toy was made with special rods in order to confirm its authenticity.

All of the testing proved worthwhile. X-ray images confirmed the bear was built with the three rods that mark it as a Steiff. Only Steiff bears have metal rods inside, which act as "joints."
Steiff, which draws its roots back to the late 1800s, is credited with inventing the teddy bear in 1902. The jointed bear was created one year later, according to Steiff's official Web site.

For his part, Blumenthal said he was pleased to be part of the bear's history.
"It's nice trying something new, and proving the bear's origin was interesting," Blumenthal said.

ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

$1.00 and $2.00 Coins?

2008-12-30T00:01:00.001-05:00

Here in Canada, we have the Loonie $1.00 coin and the Toonie $2.00 coin.
They have replaced the $1.00 and $2.00 paper bills that were in circulation.

In the USA, $1.00 coins are minted and circulated but because the paper bills are still printed, the coins are not popularly accepted in circulation.

My question to my American blogger friends is; if your government asked you to decide if the $1.00 and $2.00 paper bills should be eliminated and replaced with coins, what would be your answer?

Workout

2008-12-29T00:01:00.002-05:00

Monsieur Bear and I did something yesterday that we haven't done for ages.
We went ice skating!

What a workout!
I have muscles sore that have not been used for ages.
Has anyone else out there done anything like this?

AGAIN--Rest In Peace

2008-12-28T00:50:00.005-05:00

Warrant Officer Gaetan Roberge, left, and Sgt. Gregory John Kruse , right.

THE CANADIAN PRESS
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan

"Another roadside bomb attack in southern Afghanistan killed two more Canadian soldiers Saturday, along with an Afghan police officer and a local interpreter.
Warrant Officer Gaetan Roberge and Sgt. Gregory John Kruse were killed during a security patrol in the Panjway district, in the western part of Kandahar province.
The explosion wounded three other Canadian soldiers and another Afghan interpreter.

Roberge was a member of the Royal 22nd Regiment who was serving with the Irish Regiment of Canada in Sudbury, Ont. He was part of the Canadian team mentoring Afghanistan's fledgling national police force.
Kruse was from 24 Field Squadron, 2 Combat Engineer Regiment based in Petawawa, Ont. He was serving as a member of 3rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment battle group."

The latest deaths bring to 106 the number of Canadian soldiers killed in the Afghan mission since 2001.

Again, with tears, I say Rest In Peace our brave heroes.

Rest In Peace

2008-12-27T08:51:00.000-05:00

from CTV news:

"Private Michael Bruce Freeman, 28, was killed and three others were wounded after an improvised explosive device went off in the Zhari District of Kandahar Province.
Brig.-Gen. Denis Thompson, the head of Canadian and NATO forces in Kandahar, said the incident occurred Friday at about 12:45 p.m. local time, about 24 kilometres west of Kandahar City.

Private Freeman was serving with N Company, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment from CFB Petawawa, Ontario.

"This was Private Freeman's first tour in Afghanistan. He had tremendous enthusiasm and was dedicated to the mission and to his fellow section mates," Thompson said.

"It's terrible to lose a soldier at anytime but certainly during the holidays for the family it's unbelievably difficult," military analyst Mercedes Stephenson told CTV Newsnet.

In December alone, seven Canadian soldiers have been killed by roadside bomb attacks -- making it the most deadly month of 2008.
Stephenson said IEDs are the "number one killer" of Canadians in Afghanistan.

The latest death brings the number of Canadian soldiers killed in the mission in Afghanistan to 104 since 2001.
One diplomat and two aid workers have also been killed."

Rest in peace, our brave hero.

Saturday Funnies

2008-12-27T00:01:00.005-05:00

Joyous Kwanzaa

2008-12-26T00:01:00.005-05:00

From Wikipedia:

"Kwanzaa is a week-long holiday celebrated throughout the world, honouring African heritage, marked by participants lighting a kinara (candle holder).

It is observed from December 26 to January 1 each year.

It was created by Ron Karenga and was first celebrated from December 26, 1966, to January 1, 1967."

Joyous Kwanzaa to all who celebrate this holiday.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T00:01:00.007-05:00

Luke 2:1-21

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.
(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

ABC Wednesday-W

2008-12-24T00:01:00.010-05:00

We WISH you a Merry Christmas;

We WISH you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Good tidings we bring to you and your kin;

Good tidings for Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Oh, bring us a figgy pudding;

Oh, bring us a figgy pudding and a cup of good cheer.

We won't go until we get some;

We won't go until we get some, so bring some out here.

We WISH you a Merry Christmas;

We WISH you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

The author and composer of "We WISH You a Merry Christmas" cannot be traced however it is believed to date back to England in the sixteenth century.

The tradition of carollers being given Christmas treats for singing to wealthy members of the community is reflected in this Christmas song " We WISH You a Merry Christmas!"

Over the years the fashion for figgy puddings mentioned in "We WISH You a Merry Christmas" has faded.

But for the curious, the recipe consisted of the most important ingredient which was of course figs together with butter, sugar, eggs ,milk, rum, apple, lemon and orange peel, nuts, cinnamon, cloves and ginger!

ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

Busy

2008-12-23T00:01:00.007-05:00

Busy Busy Busy!!!

Happy Chanukah

2008-12-21T18:01:00.001-05:00

Thank you to everyone for all your get well wishes.

Boy did this bout of the flu ever hit me hard.

The good news is that I lost three pounds which I will probably put right back on though now that I am eating again.

Now I have to get ready for the up-coming holiday season.

Happy Chanukah to all the bloggers who celebrate this holiday.

BLEGH!!

2008-12-19T00:01:00.003-05:00

We interrupt this blog to introduce--- Influenza
When I can remove my head out of the toilet bowl, I will be back.
Until then, BLEGH!!!

ABC Wednesday-V

2008-12-17T00:01:00.001-05:00

From Wikipedia:

VELCRO is a brand name of fabric hook-and-loop fasteners.

VELCRO consists of two layers: a "hook" side, which is a piece of fabric covered with tiny hooks, and a "loop" side, which is covered with even smaller and "hairier" loops.

When the two sides of VELCRO are pressed together, the hooks catch in the loops and hold the pieces together.

When the VELCRO layers are separated, the strips make a characteristic "ripping" sound.

George de Mestral named his invention "VELCRO", which is a portmanteau of the two French words velours, meaning 'velvet', and crochet, or 'hook'.

The term VELCRO is a registered trademark in most countries.

ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

Honey: To-Do-List

2008-12-16T00:01:00.005-05:00

At this time of the year, there are so many things on Monsieur Bears'
"Honey: To-Do-List" that even I feel a little bit guilty.

Emphasis on a *little bit.*

Shoe Throwing

2008-12-15T11:20:00.001-05:00

From: The Associated Press

"Iraqi journalist Muntadar al-Zeidi threw his shoes at President George W. Bush during a press conference in Baghdad on Dec. 14. 2008, while yelling in Arabic.

Thousands of Iraqis took to the streets today to demand the release of Muntadar al-Zeidi, as Arabs across many parts of the Middle East hailed the journalist as a hero and praised his insult as a proper send-off to the unpopular U.S. president.

The journalist is being held by Iraqi security Monday and interrogated about whether anybody paid him to throw his shoes at Bush said an Iraqi official.

He was also being tested for alcohol and drugs, and his shoes were being held as evidence, said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media.

Showing the sole of your shoe to someone in the Arab world is a sign of extreme disrespect, and throwing your shoes is even worse."

I think some Canadian politicians had better start practising their ducking techniques.

Rest In Peace

2008-12-14T07:50:00.000-05:00

Cpl. Thomas James Hamilton, left, Pvt. John Michael Roy Curwin, centre, and Pvt. Justin Peter Jones, right.

THE CANADIAN PRESS
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan–

Three more Canadian soldiers were killed yesterday after an improvised explosive device detonated on a road just west of Kandahar city, pushing Canada's death toll from the Afghan mission to 103.
It's believed the three men were responding to a report that an IED was being planted on Highway 1, which runs from Kandahar city to the border of Helmand province, when it exploded. A fourth soldier was injured and was listed in fair condition.

*
Killed in action were Cpl. Thomas James Hamilton, Pte. John Michael Roy Curwin and Pte. Justin Peter Jones. All three were with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, RCR based in Gagetown, New Brunswick.

The deaths come just eight days after three other soldiers were killed when their armoured vehicle struck an IED on the same stretch of highway.

*
The latest incident yesterday occurred about 9 a.m. local time on the border between the Arghandab and Zhari districts close to the village of Senjaray.

Saturday Funnies

2008-12-13T00:01:00.002-05:00

Loyalty Cards

2008-12-12T00:01:00.001-05:00

In the past few months, Monsieur Bear and I have started to apply for and use the loyalty cards which are being offered by many of the stores and businesses here in Canada.

Instead of paying cash or using our debit cards, we are consciously using specific credit and/or loyalty cards at the various stores where we shop.

We pay off any account balances before interest rates would accrue so it is not costing us any extra to shop this way.

We have been pleasantly surprised to learn that by doing this we are accumulating points and/or dollars to the amount of $40.00 to $50.00 per month.

This amount may not seem like much but when you add it all up; it means an additional $480.00 to $600.00 we have to spend in one year.

Are there any others out there who are using loyalty cards in this way and have you found similar or higher savings?

Eco-baby toys

2008-12-11T00:01:00.001-05:00

Gifts for the eco-baby

On a crusade against plastic toys?

Plan Toys produces simple, colourful toys in Thailand, made with materials such as replenishable rubber wood and water-based dyes.

But your baby doesn't care about all that.

He/she will dig the smooth surfaces and bright colours.

Oh, and the satisfying clunk these toys make when tossed on the floor.

ABC Wednesday-U

2008-12-10T00:01:00.003-05:00

Founded in 1907 as a messenger company in the United States, UPS has grown into a $49.7 million corporation by focusing on the goal of enabling commerce around the globe.

Today UPS, or United Parcel Service Inc., is a global company with one of the most recognized and admired brands in the world.

As the largest express carrier and package delivery company in the world, UPS are a leading provider of specialized transportation, logistics, capital, and e-commerce services.

Every day, UPS manages the flow of goods, funds, and information in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide.

At this time of the year, having a familiar UPS delivery truck come to your home also brings a smile to your face.

(And it is always nice to see a man in a UNIFORM.)

ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

Safety Concerns

2008-12-09T00:01:00.001-05:00

Today, Monsieur Bear and I were out driving in the car and we were shocked at how many pedestrians were trying to cross the roads in the middle of the block or crossing at a corner on a red light.

What was so disheartening was that there was not one specific age group doing this, but people of all ages. We saw teenagers in large groups, young mothers pushing strollers and with toddlers walking beside them and also seniors with canes crossing the streets in an unsafe manner.

Please people use your common sense especially at this time of the year. In winter conditions, cars take longer to come to a safe stop.

Everyone is in a hurry and rushing to get somewhere but please don't ruin your families' holidays.

We drivers also don't want our holidays destroyed by your carelessness.

Use a safe crossing. please.

Let It Snow

2008-12-08T00:01:00.002-05:00

We have had our first real blast of winter here.

Monsieur Bear is in his glory because he gets to use his snowblower for the first time this year.
MEN!!!

Rest In Peace

2008-12-06T00:01:00.003-05:00

From CBC News:

Three Canadian soldiers were killed by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan Friday, raising the Canadian death toll there above the sombre milestone of 100.

*
All three — Cpl. Mark Robert McLaren, Pte. Demetrios Diplaros and Warrant Officer Robert Wilson — were based at CFB Petawawa in eastern Ontario.

As with many of the deaths, the latest casualties came from an improvised explosive device (IED) — one of the Taliban's weapons of choice.
*
The three were in an armoured vehicle when it struck the IED west of Kandahar city around 9 a.m. local time, Friday, December 5, 2008.

Soldiers at Petawawa were upset that the latest casualty came three weeks before Christmas, especially after a three-month lull in fatalities for the Canadian Forces.

*
Before Friday, the last Canadian death was on Sept. 7, when Sgt. Scott Shipway was killed under similar circumstances after his armoured vehicle struck an improvised explosive device during a security patrol.

*
"To have gone for three straight months gave soldiers here perhaps a little bit of cautious optimism," said CBC's David Common. "That optimism, of course, shattered … tonight, as there are many solemn faces."

"For some it could be a number, for some it could be a milestone," said one soldier, who didn't give his name. "We don't think about the numbers. We think about our fallen comrades, our brothers in arms."

Cpl. Mark Robert McLaren

Pte. Demetrios Diplaros

Warrant Officer Robert Wilson

Rest In Peace--Our Latest Canadian Heroes

Cake In A Mug

2008-12-05T00:01:00.002-05:00

Photo courtesy of Daryl from on the m104

Recipe courtesy of JeanMac from Welcome to our World

DANGEROUS CHOCOLATE *CAKE-IN-A-MUG*

1 coffee mug

4 Tbsp. flour (plain, not self-rising)

4 Tbsp. sugar

2 Tbsp. cocoa

1 egg

3 Tbsp. milk

3 Tbsp. oil
Small splash of vanilla

3 Tbsp. chocolate chips, optional

Add dry ingredients to mug, mix well with a fork.

Add egg, mix thoroughly.

Pour in milk and oil and vanilla, mix well.

Add chips, if using.

Put mug in microwave, and cook for three minutes on 1000 watts.

Cake will rise over top of mug--do not be alarmed!

Allow to cool a little; tip onto a plate if desired.

This is a real treat and so easy to make.

It can be shared with another person but Monsieur Bear now knows if he wants some, he has to make his own.

Canadian Government in Crisis

2008-12-04T00:01:00.003-05:00

UPDATE:
Prime Minister Stephen Harper has extended the life of his minority Conservative government until the new year after Governor General Michaelle Jean today granted his request to suspend Parliament.
Jean made the unprecedented decision after a lengthy meeting with Harper this morning at Rideau Hall.
Her consent to prorogue Parliament means the work of the Commons has been discontinued, allowing Harper's Conservatives to escape a confidence vote next week that would have meant the defeat of his government.

SEVEN WEEKS of inaction---just what we don't need with the economic crisis worsening every day.

GRRR!!!!!!

This is copied word for word from Rick Mercer's blog.

http://www.rickmercer.com/blog/index.cfm/2008/12/3/Forgive-them-Canada-they-know-not-what-they-do
*
EVERY Canadian should read this.
*
"Not long after Stephen Harper took office as Canada's 28th Prime Minister an infant polar bear was born in a Berlin Zoo. Known as Knut, this cub was summarily rejected by his mother and so was nursed by human beings. Now two years later animal psychologists admit that he has become so addicted to human laughter and applause that the instant those things disappear he becomes desolate and cries for attention. This has lead to irrational behaviour never seen before in a polar bear. Experts fear that without constant applause Knut the polar bear could simply lose the will to live.
Enter Stephen Harper.
During our current crisis, Conservative staffers are being ordered to stand outside 24 Sussex Drive starting at 6:15 in the morning. Their job is to stand there in dark, in temperatures well below zero. Their instructions are to applaud, wave and sing Oh Canada loudly as Stephen Harper's motorcade pulls out of the gates and drives him to work. Harper, by all accounts, actually believes that the young people are there on their own accord and represent a ground swell of love and support for his actions. It's easier this way. Nobody wants to suffer at the hands of the inconsolable bear.
Enter Stephane Dion.
Stephane Dion is a humiliated and beaten man. Nothing prepared him for the thrashing he took in the last election, and the subsequent rejection by his own party just made matters worse. The applause and cheering stopped for this man a long time ago. Given the chance to exact revenge he will seize it at any cost.
And so is it any surprise that these damaged men are the architects of a crisis in Canada the likes of which we have never seen?
With leaders like this we shouldn't be blamed for asking why bother.
But I do know this. If this parliament was a dog it would be brought out behind the shed and shot. Rabid dogs aren't reformed, given second chances or trusted ever again.
At first this little crisis of ours in Ottawa was nothing but good old fashioned fun. For political junkies it was simply blood sport and made for great entertainment.
It began of course with the economic statement, a colossal misstep for Prime Minister Harper. The nastiness and partisanship caught everyone off guard – including the Conservative cabinet that once again were kept in the dark. Sane cabinet ministers were forced to grin and bear it as the leader revealed a strategy that not only highlighted the very worst elements of his personality, but reinforced the nagging cliché that this Conservative party cares more about inflicting pain on those they dislike then offering support for anyone in need.
For most casual observers it seemed like a game of hardball Stephen Harper would easily win. The opposition under Stephane Dion is, without a doubt, the weakest official opposition that Canada has ever seen. The leader is on his way out, the party is broke, and discipline is non-existent.
But then a funny thing happened on the way to the vote in the House of Commons.
Stephane Dion may lack the basic skills needed by all political leaders but he seems to have a grasp on basic math, something Stephen Harper, the economist, seems to have lost.
Dion crunched the numbers and quickly realized that if his party, along with the other two parties in the house, opposed Harper the government would fall – in theory Dion could even become Prime Minister.
The only problem with that scenario was that no Liberal leader would ever consider such a gambit because it would mean getting in bed with both separatist and socialist forces in the House of Commons.
The difference this time around is that those forces didn't spend the last two years destroying this Liberal leader's personal reputation. That was Stephen Harper's doing. A coalition could ruin Stephen Harper and that's the only motivation Stephane Dion needs.
This is personal.
Stephen Harper loves being the Prime Minster of Canada. Under Harper the motorcades have gotten longer, the office more presidential, the trappings more grand. The idea that within a week he could be standing in line at the airport with regular Canadians, photo ID at the ready, attempting to board an Air Canada jazz flight to Moncton so he can explain to party faithful why he now travels in a Jiffy Taxi gnaws at his very being.
Knut the polar bear could not survive such a humiliation and nor can Stephen Harper. So Stephen Harper tore up his economic update; he blinked and backtracked – behaviour not before seen in this political animal.
And this is where it should have ended; a substantial and unexpected victory for a lame duck Liberal leader and a humiliating lesson to the Prime Minister. A nice little reminder to all involved that nobody was granted a majority in this parliament, and we expect everyone to get along. Tragically, Dion wasn't strong enough to put on the brakes. Or more likely he was unwilling. It's not enough to see Harper humiliated he wants to see him out of a job.
And so we now face the notion that within a matter of days or weeks a Liberal NDP Bloc coalition led by Stephane Dion could form a new government of Canada. Stephen Harper will have no choice but to quickly rebrand the Conservatives as Canada's New Opposition.
In theory a coalition could work. If aliens from outer space landed and were running roughshod over the country perhaps a Liberal, a socialist and a separatist could put their differences aside and work together to defeat the alien overlords. A global economic crisis, however, is probably not enough for these three wildly divergent visions of Canada to gel.
This is many things. It is unimaginable, it is a little embarrassing and, it makes our parliamentary system look like a laughing stock.
However it is not, as Stephen Harper insists, undemocratic, illegal or un-Canadian.
The facts here are very clear. Stephen Harper has a minority of seats in the House of Commons – something he has never accepted.
He is required to allow for a vote on his economic update. To win he needs fifty percent plus one, and he doesn't have it. If he loses he must ask the Governor General to dissolve the House. And if she feels a coalition can govern with a majority of support in the House of Commons then she is required to ask them to do it.
Them's the rules and Harper knows it. And so his only strategy is to launch a full-fledged attack on the very institution he is sworn to protect.
Harper has taken to the airwaves saying that if he loses a confidence vote in the House of Commons it is a coup d'etat, comparing it to the hostile takeover of a legitimate majority rule government by a military dictator.
And so our Prime Minister is suggesting that the Governor General must not listen to constitutional advisors but to him and him alone. The Prime Minister's office, those same people who unbeknownst to him ensure there are people waving to the PM wherever he goes, is organizing a protest which will occur at the residence of the Governor General of Canada. In Stephen Harper's world it should not be 700 years of parliamentary tradition that determines the future but him and him alone. Incredible hubris for a man who received less than 38 percent of the popular vote in the last election. One imagines the Queen will not be amused. In a perfect world she would just knock their two heads together and call it a day.
This could be the beginning of the Republic of Canada. A nation where Stephen Harper and not the monarch is the head of state. A Harper republic will differ from others in the world, however, as he ostensibly will have majority powers without having that old fashioned 50 percent support in either the country or the House of Commons.
This is a perfect storm. Our system works on the assumption that regardless of whether we have a minority government or not we will always be guaranteed that there will be a clear and decisive majority of rational men and women who will in times of crisis put nation over personal or party interests. It operates on the assumption that our leaders will put country before party.
Somehow we lucked out here. Our bad.
And so as we come down to the wire, and both leaders are digging in, we can only hope that this unprecedented bizarre week gets just a little stranger.
Because in a week where every day we have seen things never before predicted there is a simple solution.
We need one more historic press conference attended by two political enemies. A joint press conference between Stephen Harper and Stephane Dion.
A historic event where they both apologise to their country and their parties, in that order, and then they resign immediately – no questions please.
Because quite frankly they deserve one another and Canada deserves better."
*
*
*
*
Why do I feel that the only thing left for me as a citizen of Canada is to bend over and kiss my *** goodbye.

What a mess!

ABC Wednesday-T

2008-12-03T00:01:00.002-05:00

Oh TANNENBAUM, oh TANNENBAUM,
Wie grün sind deine Blätter!
Du grünst nicht nur zur Sommerzeit,
Nein auch im Winter, wenn es schneit.
Oh TANNENBAUM, oh TANNENBAUM,
Wie grün sind deine Blätter!
*
Oh TANNENBAUM, oh TANNENBAUM,
Du kannst mir sehr gefallen!
Wie oft hat schon zur Winterzeit
Ein Baum von dir mich hoch erfreut!
TANNENBAUM, oh TANNENBAUM,
Du kannst mir sehr gefallen!
*
Oh TANNENBAUM, oh TANNENBAUM,
Dein Kleid will mich was lehren:
Die Hoffnung und Beständigkeit
Gibt Mut und Kraft zu jeder Zeit!
Oh TANNENBAUM, oh TANNENBAUM,
Dein Kleid will mich was lehren!
*
*
O Christmas TREE, O Christmas TREE,
Your branches green delight us.
O Christmas TREE, O Christmas TREE,
Your branches green delight us.
They're green when summer days are bright;
They're green when winter snow is white.
O, Christmas TREE, O Christmas TREE,
Your branches green delight us!
*
O Christmas TREE, O Christmas TREE,
You give us so much pleasure!
O Christmas TREE, O Christmas TREE,
You give us so much pleasure!
How oft at Christmas tide the sight,
O green fir TREE, gives us delight!
O Christmas TREE, O Christmas TREE,
You give us so much pleasure!
*
*
*

The custom of erecting a Christmas TREE can be traced to 16th century Germany.

It is normally a coniferous TREE that is brought into the home and decorated with lights and ornaments.
An angel or star is often placed at the top of the TREE, representing the host of angels or the Star of Bethlehem from the Nativity story.
*
*
ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

UPDATE: MR. LINKY IS NOT WORKING, SO PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT AT DENISE NESBITT'S OWN SITE IF YOU WANT TO "SPREAD THE WORD" ABOUT YOUR OWN POST!

Thank You

2008-12-02T01:44:00.000-05:00

I was awarded the *Kreativ Blogger* award by Antigoni's Diary.
Thank you so much, please accept the *Bouquet of Bears* as my special thank you.

From Poopsie Blue at ~ ~ ~ MY TRUE COLOURS ~ ~ ~

the *I ♥ Your Blog* award.

Thank you Blue.

Come on over and pick up your *Bouquet of Bears* from me to you.

From Words of Wisdom from a Smart Mouth Broad

the *This blog Measures Up* award.

Please accept the *Bouquet of Bears* to thank you for this award.

And yesterday I got my first Christmas gift from Midlife Slices™.

A wonderful Teddy Bear picture with a large red heart.

Thank you so much.

I have proudly displayed these awards and gift in my sidebar.

Remember to click on any award or gift in my sidebar to go to their blog.

And now I have a BEARY special Artistic award to give to

Daryl from on the m104 to thank her for all her help with my new header.

Thanks Daryl, you truly are very artistic and a great photographer also.

Come get your award.

And thank you to ALL my followers and readers both old and new.

It is because of you that I am enjoying blogging so much.

Cyber Monday

2008-12-01T07:10:00.000-05:00

Today is "Cyber Monday," a term coined by the trade group National Retail Federation in 2005 to describe the Monday after the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday.

Today is the unofficial kickoff for the busy online retail season. I do not *cyber shop* for Christmas gifts myself but I was wondering how many of you do your Christmas shopping this way.

And if you do *cyber shop* is it to avoid the crowds in the busy stores or because you are getting good bargains by shopping this way?

Saturday Funnies

2008-11-29T00:01:00.003-05:00

Winners

2008-11-28T14:16:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the winners of my *Pay It Forward.*

Brenda from : Senior Stuff: Rinkly Rimes

Sandy from: I Beati

Chesapeake Bay Woman from: Life in Mathews

I have sent you all an e-mail requesting your addresses so that I can *Pay It Forward* to each of you.

Now my fun begins to go shopping for a unique and special gift for each of you.
Again Congratulations and thank you for playing *Pay It Forward.*

Pay It Forward

2008-11-28T00:01:00.004-05:00

I played *Pay It Forward* a few weeks ago on Mental P Mama's blog a few weeks ago.

Mental P Mama sent me some wonderful things that unfortunately I was unable to photograph at the moment.

So I will just have to describe her gifts to me.

1. "Penzeys one" magazine filled with some great recipes and stories.

2. "Penzeys Spices" Thanksgiving catalogue.

3. "Penzeys Spices" jar of Mulling Spices

4. "Penzeys Spices" Grenada Whole Nutmeg

5. "Microplane" Nutmeg Grate-N-Shake

6. "One Bear Lost" a delightful book written by Karen Hayles and Jenny Jones

Thank you so much Mama, I love every single thing in my *Pay It Forward* parcel.

Now, I have to participate in the FORWARD part.

I will send the first three commenters on this post a special BearNaked gift.

Also I will post international, so don't be afraid to comment from wherever you live.

A little aside note on the Bear photo above--it was the closest thing that I could find to do with spices. Salt and pepper are seasonings and some seasonings are spices.

All of which shows you how my mind works sometimes.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all my American friends.

I am thankful for discovering the wonderful world of blogging because I have *met* so many wonderful people. Blogging has introduced me to so many people from all around the world.

It has also helped to keep my mind occupied so that I do not dwell too much on any pain that I have had since my accident.

Blogging has also been very educating and informative because at various times these past few months, I have read something that has made me want to do further research on some subjects.

But the best part of reading blogs is finding so many humourous posts and/or pictures that make me laugh.

Thank You to all.

ABC Wednesday-S

2008-11-26T00:01:00.009-05:00

William SHAKESPEARE (1564– 1616) was an English poet and playwright, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's preeminent dramatist.

SHAKESPEARE is often called England's national poet and the "Bard of Avon."

SHAKESPEARE'S works consist of 38 plays, 154 sonnets, two long narrative poems, and several other poems.

SHAKESPEARE'S plays have been translated into every major living language, and are performed more often than those of any other playwright.

50 years ago was when I first studied SHAKESPEARE in school and I can still remember the first six lines of :

The quality of mercy is not strain'd,

It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven

Upon the place beneath: it is twice bless'd,

It blesseth him that gives and him that takes:

'Tis mightiest in the mightiest; it becomes

The throned monarch better than his crown:

His sceptre shows the force of temporal power,

The attribute to awe and majesty,

Wherein doth sit the dread and fear of kings;

But mercy is above this sceptred sway,

It is enthroned in the hearts of kings;

It is an attribute to God himself;

And earthly power doth then show likest God's,

When mercy seasons justice.Therefore, Jew,

Though justice be thy plea, consider this,

That in the course of justice none of us

Should see salvation: we do pray for mercy;

And that same prayer doth teach us all to render

The deeds of mercy.
*

Portia.

The Merchant of Venice.

Act IV, Scene 1.

ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

Canada Postal Elves

2008-11-25T00:01:00.000-05:00

Now in it's 27th year, over 11,000 current and retired Canada Post employees called the Postal Elves are helping to ensure that every child who sends Santa a letter that includes a return address receives a reply from Santa.

The Santa Letter-writing Program brings joy to children from across Canada and around the world.
Currently, more than one million children write to Santa at his 'NORTH POLE H0H 0H0' address. Each letter that includes a return address receives a reply from Santa.

In addition to giving many children their first introduction to letter writing, this program is also a very important part of the holiday season for thousands of Canada Post employees and retirees.

Although Santa loves to receive letters and drawings, putting cookies and treats in your envelope is not a good idea as they will get crushed and damaged by the time they reach Santa. Santa much prefers to eat his treats on Christmas Eve, so please have your children save them at home for the big day!

Have your children and/or your grandchildren send their letters to Santa with their return address included to:

SANTA CLAUS
North Pole
H0H 0H0
Canada

CFL Grey Cup 2008

2008-11-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to the Calagary Stampeders for winning the CFL Grey Cup this year.
Burris, DeAngelis lead Stampeders to victory at Grey Cup.

Monsieur Bear and I are whispering to each other right now because we both were screaming so loudly at the TV during the game that we have lost our voices.

Poor Monsieur Bear and I so unhappy, hopefully NEXT year an Eastern team will win.

Saturday Funnies

2008-11-22T00:01:00.000-05:00

Polar Bear Attack in Churchill, Manitoba, Canada.

These are pictures of an actual polar bear attack in Churchill.

These pictures were taken while people watched and could do nothing to stop the attack!

Reports from the local newspaper say that the victim will make a full recovery.

Photos and story courtesy of Poopsie Blue from MY TRUE COLOURS

Ouch Ouch Ouch

2008-11-21T00:01:00.003-05:00

From yesterday's news:
TSX plunges 750 points

Are there any other retirees out there in the blogosphere as worried as we are, at what is happening in the financial markets?

Our retirement funds are dwindling and there does not seem to be an end in sight.
We are fine tuning our budget and trying to eliminate needless purchases.
It is so frustrating because we have worked and saved all our lives and THOUGHT we had a tidy retirement fund.
And now this is happening.
I feel like crying.

I NEVER thought I would think that I might have to practise saying, "Welcome to Walmart. Here's your cart."

A Question For the Ladies

2008-11-20T00:01:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, Mental P Mama blogged about her Tattoo.
I don't have a tattoo but have always wanted to have permanent eyeliner tattooed.

The ONLY thing that is stopping me from getting this done is sheer panic that it will hurt like crazy if I were to do this.

So tell me, has anyone had this done, are you happy with the results and the most important question on a scale of 1 to 10, how much did it hurt?

ABC Wednesday-R

2008-11-19T00:01:00.006-05:00

ROSIE the RIVETER

All the day long,
Whether Rain or shine,
She's a part of the assembly line.
She's making history,
Working for victory,
ROSIE the RIVETER.

Keeps a sharp lookout for sabotage,
Sitting up there on the fuselage.
That little girl will do more than a male will do.

ROSIE'S got a boyfriend, Charlie.
Charlie, he's a Marine.
ROSIE is protecting Charlie,
Working overtime on the Riveting machine.

When they gave her a production "E",
She was as proud as she could be,
There's something true about,
Red, white, and blue about,
ROSIE the RIVETER.

Redd Evans and John Jacob Loeb

"ROSIE the RIVETER" was a classic folk hero who helped mobilize the popular image of women in the work force during World War II.

There were huge campaigns of propaganda posters and flyers that went around supporting the idea of women entering the work place while men were away in the war.

The well-known poster with the women in a bandana shouting, "We Can Do It!"was created before "ROSIE the RIVETER" was shown in the film promoting the war effort.

There was in fact a real "ROSIE the RIVETER".

Even though she was found after they had created the classical character, she fit the profile completely.

Rose Monroe was the Real life "ROSIE the RIVETER", a Riveter in the Willow Run Aircraft Factory in Michigan, Riveting plane parts together.

She had moved from Kentucky to Michigan after her husband died, and Riveting planes to help support herself and her two children.

While making a short film about selling war bonds, actor Walter Pidgeon discovered her.

He then decided to make her into "ROSIE the RIVETER" in the film, she also appeared in other promotional war films.

According to one of her daughters, Vickie Jarvis, "she happened to be in the Right place at the Right time and was chosen to be in some of these films."

The character of "ROSIE the RIVETER" was credited for an enormous increase in the number of women joining the work force to help support the war.

The emergence of women doing predominately men's jobs led indirectly to the issue of the Women's Movement.

ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

M.I.A.

2008-11-17T00:01:00.007-05:00

I have been Missing in Action from blogging for the past few days due to some health issues.
I will be back ASAP but I just wanted to publicly thank Daryl from

on the m104 for my blogger header.
Isn't it wonderful!!!

Thank you so much Daryl.

I'm Drinking From My Saucer

2008-11-13T00:01:00.004-05:00

This was sent to me in an e-mail from a very dear friend.

I've never made a fortune,
And it's probably too late now.
But I don't worry about that much,
I'm happy anyhow
And I go along life's way,
I'm reaping better than I sowed.

I'm drinking from my saucer,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.

Haven't got a lot of riches,
And sometimes the going's tough
But I've got loving ones all around me,
And that makes me rich enough.
I thank God for his blessings,
And the mercies
He's bestowed.

I'm drinking from my saucer,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.

I remember times when things went wrong,
My faith wore somewhat thin.
But all at once the dark clouds broke,
And the sun peeped through again
So Lord, help me not to gripe,
About the tough rows I have hoed.

I'm drinking from my saucer,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.

If God gives me strength and courage,
When the way grows steep and rough.
I'll not ask for other blessings,
I'm already blessed enough.
And may I never be too busy,
To help others BEAR their loads.

Then I'll keep drinking from my saucer,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.

Highway of Heroes

2008-11-13T00:01:00.003-05:00

Nine weeks ago yesterday, on ABC Wednesday-- letter H, I posted about Canada's Highway of Heroes.
That's the stretch of road where thousands of Canadians have been spontaneously turning out to pay respects to fallen soldiers as their remains are driven from CFB Trenton airbase to Toronto, Ontario.

More than fifty caring people left comments on that post and then I was unexpectently honoured on September 11th by David McMahon with the Post Of The Day Award on his blog for my post.

This Tuesday November 11th, Kevin Tibbles of NBC News in the U.S. filed a report about Canada's Highway of Heroes, with a video that you can watch here.

Washington, DC prohibits repatriation ceremonies from being filmed, and this story has really resonated south of the border.

The story touched many people on the internet.

"Hooray for our Canadian neighbors for showing us how it should be done," one viewer writes into MSNBC.com.

Another says, "Maybe someday soon Americans will once again be allowed to properly honor our war heroes."

"As a retired U.S. Army soldier, I (we) sometimes forget the sacrifices of our allies...a nice story," writes another viewer.

Then this, "I'm still choked up at the story... What a wonderful way to honor the fallen soldiers and show sympathy with their families. I wish we had some way to do something similar in the U.S."

I would like to encourage all my American readers to view the video from NBC news and to perhaps leave their comments on the web site.

Also, why not contact your government representatives today to suggest that the time is way overdue for your American heroes to also be similarly honoured by the U.S. public.

ABC Wednesday-Q

2008-11-12T00:01:00.002-05:00

QUEEN Mary 2 is the first liner to be built since QUEEN Elizabeth 2- 35 years earlier.

QUEEN Mary 2 entered service in January 2004 and is the largest, longest, widest, tallest and most expensive passenger liner in history.

No ship has ever been designed like QUEEN Mary 2, a liner which sets the benchmark for others, extends the boundaries of ship design, and which is the most powerful and fastest since Cunard's own QUEEN Elizabeth 2.

QUEEN Mary 2 is a technically advanced machine far ahead of any passenger ship in service today, and will be so for some many years to come.

The QUEEN Mary 2 is the current Cunard flagship and makes regular transatlantic crossings. The ship was constructed to complement the QUEEN Elizabeth 2—the Cunard flagship from 1969 to 2004—replacing it on the transatlantic route.

The first RMS QUEEN Mary sailed the Atlantic from 1936 to 1967.

QUEEN Mary 2 had the Royal Mail Ship (RMS) title conferred on her, as a gesture to Cunard's history, by Royal Mail when she entered service in 2004 on the Southampton to New York route.

The QUEEN Mary 2 is not a steamship like her predecessors, but is powered by gas turbines and diesel engines that produce the power to drive her four electric propulsion pods.

Like her predecessors, however, QUEEN Mary 2 is built for crossing the Atlantic ocean, though she is regularly used for cruising purposes; in the winter season she cruises from New York to the Caribbean on 10 or 13 day tours.

QUEEN Mary 2's 30 knot open ocean speed sets the ship apart from cruise ships, such as Freedom of the Seas, which has an average speed of 21.6 knots.

ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt

Mr. Linky can be found here.

Remembrance Day in Canada

2008-11-11T00:01:00.008-05:00

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders Fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep,
though poppies grow
In Flanders Fields.

- John McCrae

The poppy is the symbol of Remembrance Day.

Replica poppies are sold by the Royal Canadian Legion to raise money for Veterans

Veterans, Canadian Forces members and those who have given their lives in the pursuit of peace have made great contributions to our country and the world.

The peaceful society we in Canada enjoy today is only a dream to the many people in the world who live in countries torn apart by violence.

This peace is possible only because it has been protected by the efforts and sacrifices of generations of Canadians over the years who have put their lives on the line.

Remembering all that these men and women have done during times of war, military conflict and peace helps us understand the country we live in today and how we can build a better future together.

And so, at the 11th minute of the 11th day of the 11th month every year, we Canadians stand in silence to honour our Canadian military who have died in service to our country.

Pick a Pooch

2008-11-10T00:01:00.001-05:00

President-elect Obama said, "I love you both more than you can imagine, and you have earned the new puppy that's coming with us to the White House," to Malia, 10, and Sasha, 7, during his victory speech in Chicago.

Mr. Obama says a main criterion for his family's first dog would be whether it is hypoallergenic, since his daughter Malia is allergic. Experts say an ideal first dog should also be good with kids and visitors.

But he also said, " On the other hand, our preference would be to get a shelter dog, but, obviously, a lot of shelter dogs are mutts, like me. So -- so whether we're going to be able to balance those two things, I think, is a pressing issue on the Obama household."

A poodle was the top choice for the Obamas in an American Kennel Club survey of more than 42,000 people, the organization said.

Another breed that typically doesn't shed is a Scottish Terrier.

But then one of the dog breeds with a more friendly temperament is a Cocker spaniel.

Does anyone have another breed that they would like to suggest for the first-family's consideration?

Bear((( )))

Saturday Funnies

2008-11-08T00:01:00.004-05:00

Bear((( )))

Thank You

2008-11-07T00:01:00.001-05:00

It has been quite the Award month here at my BearNaked blog.

In the past 4 weeks I received FOUR Awards.

I am astounded and so very grateful to everyone.

*
The first award was bestowed to me by:
Confessions of a Pagan Soccer Mom

Isn't it so very Kreativ?

Thank you and I proudly display it on my sidebar.

Following that from:

Words of Wisdom from a Smart Mouth Broad

The Brillante Weblog Premio-2008 Award

I am honoured to display this award on my sidebar.

And then last week look here from:

Midlife Slices™

The I ♥ your blog award.

Well Midlife Slices™ I heart your blog also.

I've happily pasted it on my sidebar.

*
And finally just this week from:

SHERRIE'S STUFF

The Marie Antoinette- a Real Person Award

Thank you so much, if you glance to the left you will see I have it posted on the sidebar.

*
*
Now some of these awards came with rules and I have decided the only rule that I am going to follow is that all these awards link back to the wonderful people who so generously bestowed THAT Award to me.
*
Just click on ANY of the 13 awards over to the left in the sidebar and you are magically brought to their blog.
*
*
So to these four bloggers I say thank you so much and invite you to come here to BearNaked blog and pick up your *Bouquet of Bears* as my *special* thank you for thinking that I deserved these awards.
*
*
I also want to announce that sometime between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM yesterday morning, I had my 2000th visitor to my blog.
2000 visitors in almost eight months.
WOW!!!
*
Welcome 2000th visitor to BearNaked blog and hopefully you will return again and again.
*
And to EVERY one who keeps coming back, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.
It is because of ALL of you that I am so enjoying this wonderful world of blogging.
*
*

Bear((( )))

A Little Penny

2008-11-06T00:55:00.000-05:00

Remember this every time you find a little penny in the parking lot.

I always thought that it was for good luck, but I love this version better.

*
I found a penny today
Lying on the ground
But it's not just a penny
This little coin I've found
*
Found pennies come from heaven
That's what my Grandpa told me
Oh how I loved that story
He said Angels toss them down
*
He said when an Angel misses you
They toss a penny down.
Sometimes just to cheer you up
To make a smile out of your frown
*
So don't pass by that penny
When you're feeling blue
It may be a penny from heaven
That an Angel's tossed to you

Bear((( )))

ABC Wednesday-P

2008-11-05T00:01:00.002-05:00

PADDINGTON Bear celebrated his 50th birthday on October 13th, 2008.

A Bear Called PADDINGTON, a book written by Michael Bond and first illustrated by Peggy Fortnum, was released on October 13th, 1958.

Mr. and Mrs. Brown first meet PADDINGTON on a railway Platform while waiting for their daughter Judy.

PADDINGTON is sitting on an old leather suitcase near the lost Property office, wearing an unusual hat and a label round his neck which reads `Please Look After This Bear. Thank You'.

PADDINGTON explains that he has been sent from Peru by his Aunt Lucy who has had to go into the Home for Retired Bears in Lima.

PADDINGTON is always Polite (always addressing People as "Mr.", "Mrs." and "Miss" and very rarely by first names.)

PADDINGTON likes marmalade sandwiches and cocoa, and has an endless capacity for getting into trouble.

However, PADDINGTON is known to "try so hard to get things right".

Happy Belated Birthday, PADDINGTON.

ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

Bear((( )))

Happy Birthday

2008-11-04T00:01:00.005-05:00

To my STUD MUFFIN!!!

Hand in hand we've met life's changes and challenges.
Side by side we've shared our most precious dreams.
Together, we've built a beautiful life.
And every year I grow more in love with you.

With all my love and affection today and always.

Happy Birthday Honey!!

Bear((( )))

Bargain Bear

2008-11-03T00:01:00.004-05:00

Well the majority of readers last Thursday thought that the Steiff® Golden Jubilee Bear was a tad expensive, so I searched the web and found this Bear.

Click here for a coloured photo and order form for the Steiff®, Karl Lagerfeld Teddy Bear being sold at Neiman Marcus for the bargain basement price of only $1500.

Just perfect for the fashion diva in your life.

The resemblance to Karl (I always use his given name you know) is astounding.

Bear((( )))

Saturday Funnies

2008-11-01T00:01:00.009-04:00

Photo and story courtesy of Sandy from
I Beati- a meeting place to share our blessings and laugh a little !!

Gonna Be A Bear

In this life I’m a woman.
In my next life, I’d like to come back as a Bear.
When you’re a Bear you get to hibernate.
You do nothing but sleep for six months.
I could deal with that.

Before you hibernate, you’re supposed to eat yourself stupid.
I could deal with that too.

When you’re a girl Bear, you birth your children (who are the size of walnuts) while you’re sleeping and wake up to cute, cuddly cubs.
I could definitely deal with that.

If you’re a Mama Bear, everyone knows you mean business.
You swat anyone who bothers your cubs.
If your cubs get out of line, you swat them too.
I could deal with that.

If you’re a Bear, your mate EXPECTS you to wake up growling.
He EXPECTS that you will have hairy legs and excess body fat.

Yup, gonna be a BEAR!

Bear((( )))

Trick Or Treat

2008-10-31T00:01:00.016-04:00

TRICK OR TREAT!

MAY I

PLEASE HAVE

SOMETHING GOOD

TO EAT!!!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from my blog to yours.

Bear((( )))

Most Expensive Teddy Bear

2008-10-30T00:01:00.003-04:00

Steiff , a German company, has created the world's most expensive Teddy Bear.

The $85,000 Bear has a mouth made of solid gold, fur made from gold thread and eyes with pupils of sapphire and irises made from 20 tiny diamonds.

*
In celebration of its 125th anniversary, Steiff only produced 125 of the Golden Jubilee Bears. You can identify a Steiff bear by the button on its ear.
*

He comes with a 14cm high elephant companion, similarily adorned with diamonds and both white and yellow gold.

So if you were wondering what to give me this Christmas, here's your chance to make me REALLY happy.

Bear((( )))

ABC Wednesday-O

2008-10-29T00:01:00.009-04:00

On OCTOBER 31st, Halloween is celebrated at not Only Our house but at all the Other houses in Our neighbourhood.
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During the month of OCTOBER we decorate the Outside of Our homes with ghosts and goblins, witches and skeletons and the most important Halloween symbol Of all, which is the Jack - O - Lantern.
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Every OCTOBER we hunt all Over the county to find the perfect Orange pumpkin to carve Our Jack - O - Lantern. Our Orange pumpkin must be the right size and correct shape for the design we have chosen to make Our Jack - O - Lantern.
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If you would like some great design patterns with tips and techniques to carve your Own Jack - O - Lantern just click On:
Jack-O-Lantern.com
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ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.
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Mr. Linky can be found here.
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Bear((( )))

The Answer

2008-10-28T00:01:00.006-04:00

"Radar" O'Reilly's Teddy Bear

Corporal Walter Eugene “Radar” O’Reilly was a fictional character in the M*A*S*H film and television series.
The character was portrayed by Gary Burghoff.
Burghoff was the only actor from the film to reprise his role on television.

Radar was often portrayed as a friendly but very young and naive man from Iowa. As a symbol of how young this man was when he got to Korea, he slept with a Teddy Bear. The Teddy Bear was never given a name in the series.

As a way of saying that Radar came to Korea as a boy and went home a man, he left his Teddy Bear behind, leaving it with Hawkeye Pierce, who added the Teddy Bear to a time capsule with several other items from the camp.

On July 29, 2005, the original Teddy Bear used in the series was sold at an auction for $11,800.

And no, it wasn't me that bought it.

Bear((( )))

A Question

2008-10-27T00:01:00.004-04:00

Which Teddy Bear is this?

I know, do any of my readers?

I'm not giving any hints, just the photo.

The correct answer will be published tomorrow.

Bear((( )))

Saturday Funnies

2008-10-25T00:01:00.001-04:00

Pandamonium--Photo and caption courtesy of Kenju from IMAGINE

Bear((( )))

Extra Extra-- Read All About It

2008-10-24T00:01:00.003-04:00

Only reading headlines and the first few sentences of a news story from just one source can influence how and what a person perceives to have happened.

Case in point, yesterday the Bank of Canada issued a Monetary Policy Report.

Here are the highlights of that report taken directly from the Bank of Canada website.

“Tighter credit conditions, weaker external demand, and sharply weaker commodity prices have lowered the outlook for Canadian growth and inflation.
Growth in Canada will be sluggish through the first quarter of next year, then pick up over the rest of 2009 and accelerate to above potential growth in 2010.
Total CPI inflation is projected to fall below 1 per cent in mid-2009 before rising to 2 per cent by the end of 2010. Core inflation will remain below 2 per cent until the end of 2010.
Policy-makers in major countries have taken bold actions to address the financial crisis and its effects on the economy. Canada's economy and strong financial system will benefit directly from these actions.
The policy rate has been lowered by a total of 75 basis points this month, 225 basis points since the beginning of December 2007. Some further monetary stimulus will likely be required to achieve the 2 per cent inflation target over the medium term.
The risks around the revised base-case projection for inflation are judged to be roughly balanced, but the outlook is subject to greater uncertainty than usual."

And now the headlines and opening sentences from three different news sources.
Please note the time each story was posted.

CBC.ca

Bank of Canada sees sluggish growth until 2010

Last Updated: Thursday, October 23, 2008 11:54 AM ET
CBC News

"Canada's economic performance is expected to be sluggish through the first quarter of next year, the country's central bank said Thursday.
In its Monetary Policy Report, the Bank of Canada said growth is expected to pick up over the remainder of 2009 and to shoot to "above-potential" in 2010, as credit conditions improve and interest-rate cuts take hold."

CTV.ca

Economy to rebound by 2010: Bank of Canada

Updated Thu. Oct. 23 2008 12:42 PM ET
CTV.ca News Staff

"The Bank of Canada predicts we will avoid a recession -- but just barely -- and says growth will be slow and insignificant for the foreseeable future.
In its October Monetary Policy Report, the central bank said the global economic slowdown is having a sharp impact on Canada's economy. "

The Globe and Mail

Economy on edge of recession: Bank of Canada

HEATHER SCOFFIELD
Globe and Mail Update
October 23, 2008 at 12:43 PM EDT

"OTTAWA — The Bank of Canada says the Canadian economy is on the razor's edge of recession, and a full recovery is dubious and distant.
In a blunt 32-page assessment of the global and Canadian economies that is devoid of good news, the central bank says Canada's economy is contracting right now, and won't show any growth in the first quarter of next year."

Hmmm!!

So in 49 short minutes depending on WHICH news source published the SAME news story; we the Canadian public will have sluggish growth---no no--a rebounding economy----no wait-- we are on the razor's edge of a recession.

Read more than just headlines and opening sentences, from a variety of different news sources, to get an un-biased opinion on what is really happening in the news.
Perhaps if more people took this advise; our countries would be in better shape than they presently are.

Bear((( )))

Provoking Palin’s Inner Bear

2008-10-23T00:01:00.005-04:00

Directly quoting from The Caucus Blog - NYTimes.com

October 19, 2008,

8:36 pm — Updated: 10:26 am

Provoking Palin’s Inner Bear

By Julie Bosman

"{Just call her Mama Bear.
Gov. Sarah Palin said Sunday that the hardest part about public life as the Republican vice-presidential nominee was the news media coverage of her children. That, Ms. Palin said, brought out the grizzly bear in her.
“The toughest thing has been the shots taken against the kids, against the family,” said Ms. Palin, according to a partial transcript of an interview with WWOR, a television station that serves New York City. “They’re my kids. The mama grizzly bear in me comes out, makes me “It’s a little bit unfair there. It has nothing to do with taking the country in a new direction.” I want to rear up on my hind legs and say, ‘Wait a minute.’ "}

Now tell me how I could NOT resist posting this here on my blog.
Just click on the link to see the interview.

And I guess this is how Mama bears take care of their cubs.
Palin children travelled on state dime

Edited to add:
Mama Bear has to look good.
Republican party spent $150K on Palin's clothes

Bear((( )))

ABC Wednesday-N

2008-10-22T00:01:00.001-04:00

NURSE Nancy is a Registered NURSE (RN) here in Ontario, Canada.
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The College of NURSES of Ontario is the regulatory body for the province’s 145,000 Registered NURSES (RNs) and Registered Practical NURSES (RPNs).
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The College of NURSES of Ontario members play vital roles in our province's health care system and provide care in a wide range of settings, including hospitals, public health units, community clinics, retirement and NURSING homes, long-term care facilities, workplaces, doctors’ offices, correctional facilities and private homes.
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The College of NURSES of Ontario regulates the NURSING profession by setting entry-to-practice requirements and by establishing, promoting and enforcing the standards of practice and conduct.
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I am the proud parent of a Registered NURSE who works in my province of Ontario.
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ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.
Mr. Linky can be found here.
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Bear((( )))

Thinking About My Oddities

2008-10-21T00:01:00.001-04:00

photo courtesy of Richie from:

An Arkies Musings

Last week Chesapeake Bay Woman and then yesterday Midlife Slices™ asked me to list 6-7 oddities about myself. I promised them I would think about my oddities and list them here on my blog.

So in no particular order, here are the things that people will say, "You are odd, Bear!"

1. I really like Mimes. At one point in my life, I wanted to open a restaurant in Québec City that would have Mimes as waiters. I had even decided what the decor would be (all black and white) and that no one other than the customers would speak. Imagine my chagrin when I found out that I am possibly the only person in the world who actually finds Mimes humourous. Oh well, another one of my brilliant ideas goes bust.

2. The one and only time I ever paralleled parked was the day many, many years ago when I took my driver's test. I will park three blocks away from where I have to be, to avoid parallel parking.

3. Keeping with the driving theme, I always try to never turn left unless at a light with an advanced green signal. My children make fun of me--oh well.

4. I do not turn on a radio--EVER. Not in the car or at home. I prefer silence rather than having a radio blaring in the background. Occasionally, I will listen to some tunes on my CD player but that is maybe 2 to 3 times a year.

5. I have to read books lying down. I don't know why but I have always done this. Lying in bed or on the couch, that is the way that I read.

6. I can not fall asleep if the sheets or blankets are tucked in at the foot of the bed. The FIRST thing I do when I go to a hotel is untuck the sheets even before removing the bedspread. Hotel maids hate me but then I tip well, so deal with it, is my theory.

7. Bonus oddity about myself. I have never owned a dress or a blouse with a patterned fabric. Monochrome only. I do not like patterned fabric for dresses or blouses. This years' fashions are just not my style. I can wait. This patterned fabric craze will soon be over (hopefully.)

Bear((( )))

20 Things To Do In Your Life

2008-10-20T00:01:00.001-04:00

1. Do your best to find something beautiful in at least half of all the people you meet.
2. Tip waitresses as you would like to be tipped. (Would they be waitressing if they didn't need the money?)
3. Smile often, even if not everyone smiles back.
4. Make cookies for your neighbours.
5. Treat yourself to something nice.
6. Give flowers.
7. Donate old clothes to the Salvation Army or Goodwill, rather than throwing them out.
8. Buy a meal for someone you see with a " Will Work For Food" sign.
9. Make a donation to a worthwhile charity, remember, you get what you give.
10. Volunteer to help someone learn to read through a library literacy program.
11. Give some of your time up for a friend who you know could use a day out.
12. When someone is cruel or unfair to you, forgive them. (If you let their cruelty harden your heart, you are no better than they.)
13. Make yourself more available to your loved ones, each of us have limited time here.
14. Even if it doesn't happen to you. CARE.
15. Listen to your kids for 20 minutes, undistracted. (This time is priceless)
16. Look for the humour in your life, it's there!
17. Smile..life's too short to take yourself too seriously.
18. Sing with your children, or someone else's.
19. Don't be afraid to be silly in public, at the end of your life you'll wish you spent more time enjoying life..not impressing strangers.
20. Understand that people are, and will always remain, imperfect. Accept this truth and look for the best in those around you.

Please remember to practice *Random Acts of Kindness.*

You will be amazed at how good YOU will feel.

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Bear((( )))

Saturday Funnies

2008-10-18T00:01:00.006-04:00

Bear((( )))

Lessons Learned From Geese

2008-10-17T00:01:00.003-04:00

It is that time of the year when the geese are flying south for the winter season.

These are lessons we humans can learn from geese.

As each goose flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the birds that follow. By flying in a V formation, the flock adds 71% extra flying range.

People who share a sense of community can help each other get where they are going more easily....because they are traveling on the trust of one another.

When a goose falls out of formation, it feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It will quickly move back to take advantage of the lifting power of the birds in front.

If we have as much sense as geese, we stay in formation with others headed in the direction we want to go. We are willing to accept their help and offer our help in return.

When the lead goose tires, it drops back within the formation and another takes the lead position.

It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks. We should recognize, respect and protect each other’s unique arrangement of skills, capabilities, talents, and resources.

The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.

We need to make sure our honking is supportive. In groups where there is encouragement, production is greatly increased. Individual empowerment results from quality honking.

And finally, when a goose gets sick, two geese drop out of the formation and follow it to help and protect it.

If we have as much sense as geese, we will stand by each other in difficult times, as well as when we are strong.

Bear((( )))

Thank You

2008-10-16T00:01:00.001-04:00

I have been fortunate to receive two new awards from two fellow bloggers.

The first on October 2nd is the "One Sweet Blog Award"
from Dianne of Forks Off The Moment.
Thank you Dianne, please accept the *Bouquet of Bears* from my blog to yours.

And on October 10th from Joy of The Joy of Six
"The Million Dollar Friend Award"
Joy, come over and pick up your *Bouquet of Bears* as my special Thank You.

Now the Million Dollar Friend Award did come with some rules to follow.
And since I am such a good follower I will post and follow the rules.

1. Only five people allowed.
2. Four have to be dedicated followers of your blog.
3. One has to be someone new or recently new to your blog and live in another part of the world.
4. You must link back to whoever gave you the award.

The five bloggers to receive this award are:

Daryl from out & about in new york city
Helen from Baino's Banter
Kay from Kay's Thinking Cap
Bobbie from Almost There
Merle from Merle's Third Try

Ladies come over and claim your award.

But I just want to say that I consider each and every one of you readers of my blog "Million Dollar Friends" not just these five bloggers.

Bear((( )))

ABC Wednesday-M

2008-10-15T00:01:00.005-04:00

Johann Chrysostom Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART
(27 January 1756 - 5 December 1791)

MOZART was a musical prodigy who started composing at the age of five. At six years of age, MOZART was playing before the Bavarian elector and the Austrian empress. Much of his childhood and adolescence was taken up with tours, which included performances before many of the royal courts of Europe.

MOZART at seventeen accepted a post as a court musician in Salzburg, but was unhappy with his low pay and limited opportunities. Over the next eight years, MOZART frequently traveled in search of a better position and composed abundantly. This situation continued until his dismissal from Salzburg in 1781 by his employer, the Prince-Archbishop, and his subsequent departure for Vienna.

MOZART spent the rest of his busy life in Vienna, where he achieved relative fame. However, his finances remained precarious, with periods of prosperity and poverty. In 1782, MOZART married Constanze Weber against the wishes of his family; six children were born, of whom two survived infancy.

Musically, this was a period of outstanding creativity which saw the production of many of his best known symphonic, concertante and operatic works, and his final, incomplete Requiem. MOZART died at the age of 35 from a feverish illness, although rumours surfaced that he had been poisoned. MOZART was buried in a Vienna suburb, with little ceremony and in an unmarked grave, in accordance with prevailing custom.

ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

Bear((( )))

Canada--It Is Time To Vote

2008-10-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

Today is ELECTION day here in Canada.

It is time for ALL of us to choose a Prime Minister for Canada.

After 37 days of campaigning, the day has finally arrived where all Canadians have the right and the privilege to vote on who will be the next Prime Minister of Canada.

Let's make today the day that will go down in history as the day that ALL Canadians went to the polls and voted for their choice for Prime Minister of Canada.

I'm voting, are you?

Bear((( )))

Thanksgiving Day in Canada

2008-10-13T00:01:00.007-04:00

Happy Thanksgiving Day Canada
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Happy Columbus Day U.S.A.
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Here is a list of things we should all be thankful for:
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For the husband who is on the sofa being a couch potato
Because he is home with me and not out at the bars.
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For the wife who says it's Hot Dogs for dinner tonight
Because she is home with me and not out with someone else.
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For the teenager who is complaining about doing the dishes
Because it means she is at home, not on the streets.
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For the taxes I pay
Because it means I am employed.
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For the mess to clean after a party
Because it means I have been surrounded by friends.
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For the clothes that fit a little too snug
Because it means I have enough to eat.
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For my shadow that watches me work
Because it means I am out in the sunshine.
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For a lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning and gutters that need fixing
Because it means I have a home.
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For all the complaining I hear about the Government
Because it means we have freedom of speech.
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For the parking spot I find at the far end of the parking lot
Because it means I am capable of walking and have been blessed with transportation.
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For my huge heating bill
Because it means I am warm.
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For the lady behind me in Church who sings off key
Because it means I can hear.
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For the pile of laundry and ironing
Because it means I have clothes to wear.
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For weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day
Because it means I have been capable of working hard.
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For the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours
Because it means I am alive.
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Bear((( )))

Saturday Funnies

2008-10-11T00:01:00.005-04:00

Bear((( )))

Can't Look

2008-10-10T08:04:00.002-04:00

Faces

Bear((( )))

On Yom Kippur

2008-10-09T04:21:00.003-04:00

Wishing you the wisdom that comes from reflecting on the past

The strength that comes from reaffirming your faith

The joy and promise that come from looking toward tomorrow.

Bear((( )))

Breast Cancer Awareness

2008-10-09T00:01:00.002-04:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

There have been many bloggers who have written about Breast Cancer such as:

Of Thistles and Maple Leaves

slicksumbich.com

Pseudonymous High School Teacher

and even a Wordless Wednesday post from:

Daryl from: out & about in new york city

But everyone please go and read:

Words of Wisdom from a Smart Mouth Broad

which has to be the best post on the web about Breast Cancer Awareness.

25 Breast Cancer Myths and Misunderstandings

Bear((( )))

ABC Wednesday-L

2008-10-08T00:01:00.003-04:00

Little Lisa Landry Likes her Lovely LION costume so much that she wants to wear it every day this month, not just for Halloween on October 31st.

Even though Lisa is a Little girl, she wants to wear the male LION costume because she Loves the Look of the male LION'S mane.

The chief role of the male LION is to defend territory and protect the female LIONS from other males.

Male LIONS have a most unusual feature designed specifically for this purpose, which is their mane.

In nature, the male LION is a Large well-muscled cat, and can be up to 9 feet in Length and weighing an average of 415 pounds.

While size is an obvious advantage, it requires much more food so the bulky mane serves a twofold purpose.

It gives the appearance of size without the increased body weight and serves to protect from the claws and teeth of other male LIONS.

Little Lisa doesn't care why the male LION has a mane; she is just Looking forward to Halloween night when she can go trick or treating for Licorice, Lollipops, Lemon Drops and Life Savers.

ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

Bear((( )))

ReaLemon™

2008-10-07T00:01:00.001-04:00

ReaLemon™ is now back on the shelves (at least in South Western, Ontario) this week.
What this means to me, personally, is that I can now purchase it whenever I need it, but also I will not have as many hits from Google as I have had in the past few months.

The disappearance of ReaLemon™ from the grocery store shelves has been the number one reason why people have found my blog through Google lately.

With the name of *BearNaked* for my blog, you can only imagine what the other top reasons people are coming here for a visit.

When I first named my blog BearNaked, I should have expected some crazy hits, but to tell you the truth, some days this old Bear has had some very red cheeks.

Bear((( )))

Sensuality Test

2008-10-06T00:01:00.001-04:00

I took an online sensuality test today and thought I would post my results.

I scored an 81.

What does your score mean?

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You are one sensual human being!

Yours is a hedonistic attitude, and you deeply enjoy the sensual pleasures that life has to offer. Your senses are also inextricably linked to your emotions and certain sensual stimuli can evoke strong feelings.

Therefore you tend to be emotionally passionate.

Because you get so much pleasure from your senses, you are eager to experiment in life.

This is positive since you can make great discoveries and experience a lot of pleasure.

It is important, however, to keep yourself in check since people whose delight is sensual pleasures are at a slightly increased risk for ADDICTIONS.

All in all, you have the innate ability to use your senses to enjoy what this life has to offer!

Take the Sensuality Test here.

How sensual are YOU?

Bear((( )))

Saturday Funnies

2008-10-04T00:01:00.008-04:00

My apologies to my male readers.

But admit it, this IS funny.

I posted this joke specifically for Midlife Slices™

Enjoy!

Bear((( )))

Will That Be For Here or To Go

2008-10-03T00:01:00.001-04:00

A sandwich shop in Kitimat, B.C., had an unusual customer last week -- a black bear.

from the Canadian Press

"Last Thursday morning, Rebecca Branton had just opened up a Subway restaurant in the north coast town of Kitimat, when her first visitor began sniffing around the front door.
"I was just back there making soup … but I saw the door open and it was a bear."
The young bear's every move was captured by nine video cameras in the shop, including how it managed to grab the handle of the front door and pull it open.

See the video here.
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"I thought he'd used the handicap button, but instead he opened it just like a human," said Branton. As the bear sniffed around, checking out the menu choices, Branton fled for the safest room in the store. "I grabbed my cellphone and ran to the back and locked myself in the bathroom and called my parents," she said.
Meanwhile the furry visitor popped over the counter to have a closer look at the selection of cold cuts, coming within a few metres of the bathroom Branton had locked herself in.
"I could tell that the bear heard me in the bathroom and then jumped back," she said.

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Since the staff seemed indisposed, and there was no service to be had, the bear eventually decide to leave, without having a bite to eat.
It let itself out, using the automatic door opener to swing open the front door.

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Unfortunately for the bear, a short time later police tracked it down and decided it had to be shot, since it would likely return and could endanger human lives.
As for Branton, she finished her shift, but not without paying a lot more attention to what kind of customers were walking in the front door."

Bear((( )))

Urgent Health Alert

2008-10-02T14:01:00.002-04:00

Toronto bus passenger may have infected others with TB

Canwest News Service

“TORONTO - Ontario public health agencies are attempting to contact 27 passengers who were on a Greyhound bus that stopped in Windsor, Ont., in August after a passenger onboard tested positive for tuberculosis.
The bus, departed from Toronto at 12:30 p.m. on Aug. 31, with 33 passengers bound for Detroit, according to a news release Thursday by Ontario's public health agency.
The bus made a stop in London, Ont., at 2:35 p.m. and picked up nine more passengers and then stopped again in Windsor, Ont., at 5:05 p.m. where 27 people got off, the statement said.

Health authorities are now trying to locate those 27 passengers who were on the Greyhound trip No. 0367 in fear that the passenger who has tuberculosis may have passed it on to other passengers.
"The risk is low but we want to make sure everyone who was potentially exposed is properly notified and evaluated as needed," Dr. David Williams, Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health, said in a statement. The sick passenger was stopped at the Windsor-Detroit border by U.S. customs officials and has been quarantined at a Windsor area hospital. "

Please pass this information on in the blogosphere.
Let's see if those 27 people can be found and contacted today.

EDIT TO ADD:

Anyone who was on the Detroit-bound bus is asked to contact their local health authority at 1-866-532-3161.

Bear((( )))

Tagged#3

2008-10-02T00:01:00.003-04:00

I was tagged by Helen at Baino's Banter last week to do a meme telling people about myself.
Interesting questions and maybe my answers will give you a little insight into whom or what BearNaked really is all about.

What are your nicknames?

I have none---I tried to shorten my name when I was a teenager because when puberty hit, I decided I hated my name. Only one friend started calling me by my new shorter (and what I thought was) so very clever nickname.

It didn't work.
It didn’t last.

What TV game show/reality show would you like to be on?

For years I have been dreaming about appearing on Jeopardy.
I really should get over my fear of making a fool of myself and take the test.
And I so wish that I could be on Dancing With The Stars.
Since I am neither a star nor a dancer, I know it is just a pipe dream.
But a lady can fantasize, can’t she?

What was the first movie you bought in VHS or DVD?

Charade with Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant.
The very best movie ever made!
In my mind I have always been Audrey Hepburn and my husband is Cary Grant.
Commence laughing!

What is your favourite scent?

The scent of the hot, humid Mexican air; the minute I step off the plane.
Unfortunately, since we need a new ROOF, our annual trip to Mexico, in January, will have to be postponed.
Background sound of uncontrollable sobbing.

If you had one million dollars to spend only on yourself, what would you spend it on?

A new house here in Canada and a small casita in Mexico.
If there was anything left after those two real estate transactions; vino blanco por favor.
And chocolate, lots of chocolate.

One place you've visited, can't forget and want to go back to?

MEXICO
We have been there ten times now and I can never get enough of that wonderful country. The people, the food, the music, the customs and the beautiful Spanish language have stolen my heart.
In my next life I had better come back as a Mexican (or Audrey Hepburn.)

Do you trust easily?
No—‘nuff said.

Do you generally think before you act, or act before you think?

Research is my middle name.

Is there anything that has made you unhappy these days?

The ROOF!

Do you have a good body image?

I am going to be very truthful.
As a teenager and a young woman in my 20’s and 30’s, I was not happy with how I looked.
I have always been small boned (delicate some people like to call it.)
I always looked much younger because of this.

Now I realize what a fool I was.
Because I don't look younger any more--just small-boned.

What is your favorite fruit?

Avocado which makes Guacamole which makes Bear very happy.

What websites do you visit daily?

Globeandmail.com
TheStar.com
CTV.ca CTV News

And many, many more. I am a news junkie.
Of course, all of your wonderful blogs are a must read also.

What have you been seriously addicted to lately?

Reading blogs.

What kind of person do you think the person who tagged you is?

I haven’t a clue; but from reading her blog, she comes across as a friendly, long-winded (just kidding Helen) Australian with a great sense of humour who shares her love of travel with her daughter.

What's the last song that got stuck in your head?

The freaking elevator music I had to endure while on hold this morning, on the phone.
Thanks (not) for reminding me!

Favourite clothing?

Bathing suits in the summer and in Mexico.
Turtle-neck sweaters for the Canadian winters.

Do you think Rice Krispies are yummy?

When I was six I did, not so much anymore.

What would you do if you saw $100 lying on the ground?

Grab it quickly and get a manicure and pedicure.

Items you couldn't go without during the day?

My computer, my white wine, my books, my chocolate and the love of my life, my husband.
Not necessarily in that order.
(Chocolate would be first.)

What should you be doing right now?

Exercising and then going outside to get some Vitamin D.

So there you have it; BearNaked exposed-- to the blogosphere.
I won’t tag anyone specifically, but if you want to do this meme let me know, and I will be sure to visit your blogs to read all about you.

Bear((( )))

ABC Wednesday-K

2008-10-01T00:01:00.008-04:00

Kathleen Kennedy spends her evenings KNITTING scarves that she is planning to give as gifts to her friends and family.
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Here is an easy pattern for KNITTING a fun fur boa scarf:
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Materials:
Two balls eyelash yarn such as Lion Brand Fun Fur
(or enough to produce a yardage around 100 yards)
Size 10 US (6 mm or 4 UK) KNITTING needles
Crochet hook or sewing needle to work in ends
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Instructions:
Cast on 20 stitches
Work in stockinette stitch
(KNIT one row, purl one row)
until you are almost out of yarn
Bind off
Weave in ends
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ABC Wednesday is brought to you by Mrs. Nesbitt.

Mr. Linky can be found here.

Bear((( )))

Do Not Call List

2008-09-30T00:01:00.006-04:00

In Canada. the National Do Not Call List (DNCL) will launch today, September 30, 2008. It is designed to reduce the number of unwanted telemarketing calls and faxes Canadians receive.

As of September 30, 2008, you can register your home phone, cellular or fax number(s) on the National DNCL.

Signing up is simple, quick and free. You can sign up online at http://www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/ or by calling the toll-free numbers 1-866-580-DNCL (1-866-580-3625) or 1-888-DNCL-TTY (1-888-362-5889).

Once you have signed up, many telemarketers can no longer call you starting 31 days after your registration.

You must renew your registration every three years if you want your number(s) to stay on the National DNCL.

Registering on the National DNCL will reduce but not eliminate all telemarketing calls and faxes.

There are certain kinds of telemarketing calls and faxes that are exempt from the National DNCL, including those made by or on behalf of:

registered charities seeking donations
newspapers looking for subscriptions
political parties and their candidates, and
companies with whom you have an existing commercial relationship in the previous 18 months

Telemarketers making exempt calls must maintain their own do not call lists. If you do not want to be called by these telemarketers, you can ask to be put on their do not call lists. They are obliged to do so within 31 days.

You will continue to receive calls from organizations conducting market research, polls or surveys even though you are registered on the National DNCL. These are not considered telemarketing calls because they are not selling a product or service, or requesting donations.

It is not a perfect solution to eliminate unwanted telephone calls but at least, we here in Canada, can now stop SOME of those annoying interruptions to our days and/or nights.
I am signing up, are you?

Bear((( )))

We Interrupt This Blog

2008-09-29T17:36:00.002-04:00

Bear((( )))

Rosh Hashanah

2008-09-29T00:01:00.012-04:00

Jewish Year 5769: sunset September 29, 2008 - nightfall October 1, 2008
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At Sunset this evening, people of the Jewish faith will begin to celebrate the two day holiday of Rosh Hashanah.
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In Hebrew, Rosh Hashanah means, literally, "head of the year" or "first of the year."
Rosh Hashanah is commonly known as the Jewish New Year.
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The Jewish New Year is a time to begin introspection, looking back at the mistakes of the past year and planning the changes to make in the new year. One of the most important observances of this holiday is hearing the sounding of the shofar in the synagogue. A total of 100 notes are sounded each day. The shofar is a ram's horn which is blown somewhat like a trumpet.
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A popular observance during this holiday is eating apples dipped in honey, a symbol of the wish for a sweet new year.

L'shanah tovah
(For a good year)
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Bear((( )))

Saturday Funnies

2008-09-27T00:01:00.001-04:00

Bear((( )))

A House is Not a Home

2008-09-26T00:01:00.001-04:00

WITHOUT A ROOF

As some of my readers of this blog know, we want to sell the house we are currently living in right now.

There are so many reasons why we want to move:

Our present LOCATION i.e. backing on to a busy and noisy highway
~~Thieving~~ Eco-friendly and ~~nosey~~ inquisitive NEIGHBOURS
Moving CLOSER to our children and grandsons
The cracked and leaking BASEMENT that we have had repaired four times
And now the ROOF we have to have replaced ASAP!

This is BearNaked's own version of The Money Pit movie.
Insert sobbing, sound effects here.
Exit stage right:
The sight of the roofing contactor we just hired yesterday, gleefully skipping back to his truck.

We had this house built specifically for us, moved in on NEW YEARS EVE 1996 and had the unpleasant surprise, three days later, of ***4 inches of muddy water*** fill the basement.
That is yet another horror story that I still have not been able to write about; without breaking into uncontrollable laughter (which hides the sound of our screams and gnashing of the teeth.)

In the first 12 months after moving in we had to have all this done:

Repair the hole in the basement wall where the builder FORGOT to place a plug, when the foundation walls were poured.
Move the sump pump location to the lowest level of the basement floor from the highest level where it originally was located. ***Remember-- 4 inches of muddy water***
Replace throughout the house, all the wall to wall carpet that was installed incorrectly with half inch gaps at every seam.
Sand and repaint the baseboards because the incorrectly installed carpet was laid 2 hours after the house had been painted. We are talking serious FUZZY baseboards here people.
Repair the 4 outside corners of the house, cracking at the foundation.
(The New Home Warranty paid for all of this.)

Since then we have not had a 6 month run of something not breaking down, cracking and/or leaking.
And now we need a new ROOF!
Which is no longer covered by the Home Warranty.
Is it any wonder why we can't wait to sell this ~~sow’s ear~~ silk purse of a house.

Does anyone remember?
Sonnet 43 by Elizabeth Barrett Browning.

How do I love thee?
Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints,—I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life!—and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.

This is the big one!
You hear that, Elizabeth?
I'm coming to join ya, honey!
Redd Foxx

AND

Bear((( )))

Can Dilemma-Update

2008-09-25T18:27:00.000-04:00

Thank you everyone for all your helpful and/or humourous ideas on how to throw away our broken trash can.
Gary Plan B won the prize for the funniest idea.
Gary said, " Call the police and report it as an abandoned stripped vehicle and have it towed."

Well I am happy to announce that the can is gone.

The only thing that my husband did was put it at the bottom of the driveway early this morning.
No note--nothing just one poor old empty can.

I had totally forgot about my ~~thieving~~ good neighbours who grab anything that is not physically nailed down here in the 'hood.

This just proves the old saying:
One man's trash is another man's treasure.

So thank you everyone for giving me a great big smile today.
And Chesapeake Bay Woman I'll be calling you if I need to do any late night shopping.

Bear((( )))

Gargantuan Garbage Dilemma

2008-09-25T00:01:00.002-04:00

We have a gigantic problem this week with our garbage.
Well not with the garbage itself but with the trash can that we use.
Or should I say USED to use.

What happened was that last week; one of the trash collectors who emptied our plastic garbage can broke the darn thing.
Wheels on the bottom of the can-----gone, handles--—knocked off and the rim-----broken in several spots.
The poor fellow must have had an argument that morning; either with his wife and/or his boss.
Or perhaps he just needs to take a Stress Management course.

So, we purchased a new garbage can this week made from heavyweight galvanized steel with heavy-duty handles and no attached wheels.
The question to all my readers out there:

Just how do you throw away an old broken trash can?
I’m worried that they won’t take it away.
Now I am getting stressed out.

Bear((( )))