Just as overalls, shoulder pads, and velvet dresses cropped up at the mall in recent years, brass fixtures reentered the home design scene. That’s right, the 1980s are back, baby, and the golden alloy has come along for the ride. “Brass is super hot right now. We started seeing it a few years ago, creeping back into the design sphere,” comments Kate Touhill of Seattle Staged to Sell, a seven-time Houzz award-winning design firm. But... [read more]

Canada Post will be sending out one of six, free, pre-paid postcards for people to send anywhere in the country. Canada Post is getting ready to deliver approximately 13.5 million pre-paid postcards, one to every residential address nationwide, for people to send to whomever they want in the country. There are six versions of the postcard, each one offering a simple message of love, appreciation, or thanks. According to Canada Post, every household will receive one randomly selected... [read more]

The housing market, like most markets, is cyclical. These cycles can be greatly influenced by a number of factors, including interest rates, economic conditions, and consumer confidence, which can create a shortage or surplus in housing. A seller’s market happens when there is a shortage in housing or more potential buyers than homes. A buyer’s market, on the other hand, occurs when there is a surplus in housing or more homes for sale than buyers. A balanced market... [read more]

According to a story, the artist Pablo Picasso was traveling by train one day when a fellow passenger struck up a conversation with him. As they chatted, the passenger told Picasso that his paintings would be better if he concentrated on realistic images instead of abstract art. When Picasso asked for an example, the traveler took out his wallet and showed him a snapshot of his wife. “See? That’s exactly what she looks like.” Picasso held the photo in one hand.... [read more]

A "white elephant" is a possession that you want to get rid of but can't, usually in the context of Christmas and a sweater from your aunt. But why do we call that an elephant? It's one of those terms that makes so little sense that you'd have to assume it comes from a story or a fable, like maybe somebody got a huge white porcelain elephant as a gift that was useless but impossible to give away, and maybe it turned out it granted wishes or something. The point is, when... [read more]

Experts advise people to set aside enough cash to cover three to six months of living expenses in case something bad happens. Here’s how to get your “rainy-day fund” going: · Save a little every week, even if up to your eyeballs in bills. · Pay your rainy-day fund before paying into your retirement. · Pay the minimums on your credit card for a few months and put the remainder into your fund until you've built it... [read more]

March 17 is St. Patrick’s Day. So what? Why do we bother to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day around the world? Obviously, you might say, the day is to honor Ireland's patron saint, who introduced Catholicism to the Irish and rid their land of snakes. But that's not really what we're celebrating, is it? We're really using it as an excuse to wear green and throw a big party. Everyone knows the Irish love a good party. Our methods of celebrating might differ around the... [read more]

A queen called her advisors together and asked them to come up with a motto for the nation that would help her people in times of distress. “It must be short enough to be engraved on a ring. It must be as useful in prosperity as in adversity. It must be wise and true and endlessly enduring, words by which men and women could be guided all their lives.” The motto they chose: “This, too, shall pass.”   [read more]

Avoid these landlord and property manager pitfalls, and feel more confident in your rental investment.  People enter the landlord business for many different reasons. Maybe you’re an “accidental landlord” who decided to rent out your former residence, or you gained a property through an inheritance. Or, maybe you diligently researched properties for sale and chose to purchase one (or more) as an extra source of income. Regardless of how or why you entered the business,... [read more]

My college English professor was a hard grader. One February day I received a B-minus on a      research paper. In hopes of  bettering my grade, I sent her a Valentine’s Day card with the inscription: “BE MINE.” The following day, I  received a valentine from the teacher. It read: “Thank you, but it’s still BE MINE-US.”  ... [read more]

1. Build a Detailed Home Improvement Project Plan The first step in a remodeling project is to develop a plan that clearly states the goal for your renovation and includes designing inspiration and an outline of the work that needs to be completed. Your project plan should also include: Blueprints or sketches of your finished project. A list of needs and wants for your project. Project steps divided into DIY steps and steps that will require a professional. At this point in... [read more]

All this time you've just been putting Bounce in the dryer! 1. It will chase ants away when you lay a sheet near them. It also repels mice. 2. Spread sheets around foundation areas, or in trailers, or cars that are sitting and it keeps mice from entering your vehicle. 3. It takes the odour out of books and photo albums that don't get opened too often. 4. It repels mosquitoes. Tie a sheet of Bounce through a belt loop when outdoors during mosquito season. 5. Eliminate... [read more]

Being pretty much stuck at home for Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. Here are some ideas for celebrating Valentine’s Day (and the Night!) in Lockdown at Home…. and still making it special! Plan a truly Romantic Lockdown Meal What’s a good Valentine’s without a romantic meal? Start the Day right with a Valentine’s Breakfast. Your partner will LOVE their favourite breakfast in bed (don’t forget the flowers!) Have a... [read more]

It just seems a little strange to some people that there's a silent "r" in the word February. The origin of the spelling is from Roman times: February because the Roman festival of purification called Februa is on the 15th of this modern day February. The correct pronunciation IS "feb-ROO-er-ee,” which many people do say. But others find it awkward to say, so they drop the “r.” But "feb-OO-er-ee" is also uncomfortable phonetically, so those people... [read more]

A family room, generally speaking, is meant to be a more casual space than a more formal living room. It’s the kind of room where you want to feel you can relax with your spouse or kids and kick back to watch a movie or play a game without being afraid to put your feet up. The following inviting family rooms show a range of styles — from subtle to dramatic — with family-friendly features to consider. 1. Light Blue and Breezy Designers: Corinne C. Acampora... [read more]

The arrival of cold winter weather calls for hunkering down in the warmth and comfort of your home. But when said home is ill-prepared for cold snaps, an outdoor winter wonderland can very quickly turn into indoor winter woes. All it takes is a little work winterizing your home with the help of weatherproofing materials and outdoor lifestyle covers to get you prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Chimney Sweep After months of sitting dormant your indoor fireplace... [read more]

Every year, millions of people make New Year’s resolutions, hoping to spark positive change. The recurring themes each year include a more active approach to health and fitness, improved finances, and learning new things for personal and professional development. Chances are, more than a couple of the top 10 most common resolutions will look familiar to you: Exercise more Lose weight Get organized Learn a new skill or hobby  Live life to the fullest Save more money /... [read more]

“People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing.” —Dale Carnegie The idea of living a simple life with less stuff sounds attractive to many. But often, they begin to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and defeated around the idea of owning less. That’s too bad. Learning how to declutter your home and (and as a result, decluttering your life) doesn’t need to be as painful as some make it out to be. And the benefits... [read more]

A young man came to a jeweler’s shop and said he wanted to study to become a gemologist. The jeweler, a well-known expert on precious gems, was hesitant, but the young man insisted that he had the patience to learn everything the jeweler was willing to teach him. The jeweler told him to return the next day for his first lesson. When the man arrived the next day, the jeweler placed a jade stone in his hand. For four hours the young man held the stone while the jeweler worked. The... [read more]

 New Year's Eve 2021 will look a lot different than last year's celebration. Instead of heading out for a night on the town, many of us will be settling in for an evening on the couch. And in lieu of ringing in 2021 with dozens of friends, our guest lists will be limited to the people who live in our households. But just because your 2021 holiday is different does not mean it cannot be just as festive, celebratory, and meaningful as years past. With the right amount of planning,... [read more]

Decorating your home can be extremely exciting and fun, but also really scary and daunting. There are so many mistakes that can be made that can make your home look weird, awkward, and small. Of course, no one wants their home to look like that, so it’s important to know a few simple rules to avoid it. It’s actually a lot more simple than you think and when you know the dos and don’ts of home decorating you’ll easily be able to make your home look beautiful,... [read more]

Here, try these superfoods for a healthy, healing start to the New Year. Plus, a tasty recipe to get you started! After all the revelry’s over it’s time to pay the piper, as they say. For most of us, the holidays are synonymous with indulgence. Lots of eating. Too much drinking. (And lots of fun, hopefully.) But after they’re over how do we begin to get back on track? “I think in the New Year we need to focus on cleaning up after all that fun,” says... [read more]

Our Mission it to provide service excellence to our clients with compassion and integrity, making their move less stressful and more successful. We strive to exceed industry standards and to become the number one trusted real estate team for Seniors, by providing a professional and memorable experience.   [read more]

1. It's a Wonderful Life Few films define Christmas like Frank Capra's 1946 fantasy starring Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, who, on the verge of committing suicide, is visited by an angel who shows him the true importance of his life.   2. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation Rarely has a series' third installment been the equal of its two predecessors, but such is the case with this threequel involving Clark (Chevy Chase), Ellen (Beverly... [read more]

A prescription for healthy living: Live longer and feel better by following these basic steps.  1. Eat right to reduce cholesterol Almost 40 per cent of Canadians have high blood cholesterol levels. “If [our bodies] make too much cholesterol or we get too much in our diet, levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) can rise, which can contribute to an increased risk of heart attack or stroke,” says naturopathic doctor Kathryn Nobrega-Porter of the Wellpath Clinic. Take the first... [read more]

Historically low interest rates coupled with highly active markets might have you wondering whether now is the right time to purchase an investment property.  Canada’s housing markets have shattered records since the early summer, posting a 45.6% year-over-year increase in sales activity during September, according to the latest data from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). During the first nine months of this year, 402,578 homes changed hands over Canadian... [read more]

If you're going to use garland as a centerpiece for your Christmas table, break up all the greenery with some vibrant red florals. Mix modern metallic accents and drinkware with classic winter motif plates, and  then offset the lush, moody tone with a more regal, saturated hue for the runner and napkins.   [read more]

There’s no better way to decompress over the holidays than by losing yourself in a great festive flick. Check out the countdown of the 5 best Christmas movies of all time.  1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) 2. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) 3. A Christmas Story (1983) 4. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) 5. A Christmas Carol (1951)   [read more]

After World War II, Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower served for a time as president of Columbia University. According to one story, a committee of faculty members asked him to issue a rule prohibiting students from walking on the grass in the main quadrangle. Before issuing a statement, he asked, “Why do they walk on the grass?” “Because it’s the shortest way to the central hall from the entrance,” the committee    answered. “If that’s... [read more]

Here is how to find joy this holiday season—even if COVID-19 changes your traditions. This Christmas, it may be hard not to feel a little Grinchy. But before you say, “Bah, humbug,” and try to fast forward into the new year, look for ways to find some fun this holiday season. The COVID-19 pandemic may mean your Christmas won’t look exactly the same as it usually does, but you can get creative and find some new ways to celebrate—and some of your ideas may be... [read more]

If you're going to use a garland as a centerpiece for your Christmas table, break up all the greenery with some vibrant red florals. Then mix modern metallic accents and drinkware with classic winter motif plates. Then, offset the lush, moody tone with a more regal, saturated hue for the runner and napkins.   [read more]

· Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year’s Day. You can do that in January. This is the time for circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and a vat of eggnog. · If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. · Drink as much eggnog as you can, quickly. It's rare. You cannot find it any other time of year but now. Who... [read more]

If you haven’t done all of your holiday gift shopping yet, then here are five ideas for unique gifts, some with staying power long after the holidays are over. 1. Magazine subscriptions. Yes, paper—not electronics. People still enjoy flipping pages, and magazines make great gifts that keep on giving all year long. 2. Food items. Drop by a World Market or other exotic food store and put together a selection of interesting chocolates or unusual savories and cheeses. Buy a... [read more]

Your child’s first job, whether it’s baby-sitting, mowing lawns, or making burgers and fries, can be an exciting experience for everyone. As parents, here’s how you can support your teens while they learn about the real world of work: · Offer suggestions without nagging. Encourage kids to find jobs that play to their strengths and interests. · Start looking early. With unemployment high, competition will be tough. Urge kids to start looking early.... [read more]

This year my list is a little different to my usual requests. I would like a fence to go around our front garden, so that the kids can play on their bikes and scooters without me worrying about them.    I’ve realised that my favourite Christmas present as an adult was given to me the Christmas after my mum died. The day was pretty quiet, but we were trying to be jolly for my nephews and nieces who were with us and young at the time.   My boyfriend Dan, now... [read more]

Four ideas for telling very young children the truth in a way they will understand. “So, Kellus. Tell Mommy. What is Christmas about?” I waited eagerly for my son’s answer, wondering if he would remember what I taught him last year. “Christmas is about Christmas tree and lights and decorations and presents!” he answered. His voice was roaring with excitement and he jumped up and down all around the living room floor. “Oh, I see,” I answered.... [read more]

What do you call someone who is afraid of Santa Claus?  Claus-trophobic   How did the reindeer learn to play the piano?  He was elf-taught   What do you call Frosty the Snowman in May?  A puddle   What did the salt say to the pepper?  Season's Greetings!   If you like Christmas so much...  Why don't you Merry it?   Where does Santa Claus go swimming?  The North Pool   What... [read more]

Lighting Lighting can make or break even the best interior design. If you want to impress guests with thrilling home interior design, be sure to get lighting right. Pendant lamps are the best choice of lighting for a modern home interior. But when it comes to pendant lights, make sure you choose something that has an extraordinary, unusual design – one that calls attention and can trigger visual focus upward. [read more]

Fall is the perfect time to fire up the fireplace with a cozy blaze. If you want to add a little fragrance to your hearth, try these types of wood to sweeten your fire: · Apple. It not only sweetens the smell, it produces colorful flames. · Cherry. Although not as sweet as apple, cherry wood still adds a little sugar to the mix. · Hickory. Known to many great barbecue grill-meisters, hickory brings in a nice nutty aroma and is a great heat... [read more]

Follow these steps to straighten up your kitchen cabinets and shelves so they’re a pleasure to use: Kitchen cabinet doors and drawers can hide a multitude of sins. On the other hand, it’s a real treat to open them up to see nice, organized shelves where everything is easy to grab when and where you need it. Is it time to organize your kitchen cabinets? It can be a big job, so don’t try to do it all at once. Take your organizing one kitchen cabinet at a time, committing... [read more]

If you’re looking for great gift ideas… THE GIFT OF LISTENING:  But, you must really listen.  No interrupting, no daydreaming, no planning your response.  Just listen. THE GIFT OF AFFECTION:  Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds.  Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends. THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER:  Clip cartoons.  Share articles and funny stories.  Your... [read more]

Spending so much more time at home, this year has had everyone taking a close look at their homes and the improvements that they wish they had. Many homeowners are making drastic improvements to make more space and others are deciding that they need a new home altogether. I thought I’d share a few features moving up on lists of wants and needs in the age of COVID-19. Home Office Many homeowners have now worked from home in some capacity, which makes a quiet place to work... [read more]

Spending time with your partner, family or friends is worth much more than a silly trinket that will end up on the shelf collecting dust. Here are some ideas on how to give gifts of quality time and how to package them. How do you gift time? In today’s action-packed world, time is the most precious thing we have. It is not possible to simply go out and buy more of it. Many of us are lucky enough to have everything we need. In fact, we often have more possessions than we know... [read more]

Fire is one of the biggest dangers in a home, and a few simple but crucial preventative measures can help you and your family greatly reduce the chances of a fire. Keep an eye on the kitchen. The number one cause of home fires is unattended cooking. According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. fire departments respond to an estimated average of 172,100 fires that start in the kitchen. That’s an average of 471 kitchen fires a day: the peak times are during... [read more]

Ah, fall: The nip of the first chill in the air. The colorful foliage. The pumpkin spice lattes. The pumpkin spice everything. Oh yeah, and the long list of home maintenance tasks awaiting you at the start of the season. We hate to intrude on your fall bliss, but the postsummer months are a critical time for knocking out routine home maintenance to keep your household running smoothly into winter. Luckily, many of these tasks are easy DIY projects, with options to call in the pros if... [read more]

I am delighted to recommend Bev MacLean to     anyone who is thinking of buying/selling their  home. She is the consummate professional, friendly, completely knowledgeable in her market, skilled at negotiations, works very hard for her clients and has a great flair for staging a property. Bev looks for ways to make things happen, provides reliable and sensible advice and has an excellent network of associates to support the client in achieving a very positive real... [read more]

Halloween may be the spookiest time of the year, but it's also a holiday for candy-filled fun and laughter — especially with the best Halloween jokes to get the monsters and ghouls giggling all night! After carving some pumpkins and filling up on the best Halloween desserts, give the kids another treat (this time in the form of laughter!) with these hilarious jokes for Halloween, ranging from clever knock-knock jokes to punny jokes about spooky monsters. Not sure... [read more]

Twas the night of Thanksgiving, but I just couldn't sleep I tried counting backwards, I tried counting sheep. The leftovers beckoned - the dark meat and white but I fought the temptation with all of my might.   Tossing and turning with anticipation the thought of a snack became infatuation.   So, I raced to the kitchen, flung open the door and gazed at the fridge, full of goodies galore.   I gobbled up turkey and buttered potatoes, pickles... [read more]

Many Canadian mortgage holders renew without asking any questions—often receiving a higher rate with a mortgage product that doesn’t suit their needs. Do yourself a favour, and don’t sign a renewal letter without doing your due diligence. Take an assessment of your current situation, put a plan in place, and let the lenders compete for your business to ensure you receive the best mortgage possible. Here’s what you need to consider before renewing your mortgage. Put a... [read more]

To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.  This is to have succeeded. - Ralph Waldo Emerson   [read more]

If you imagined 2020 was the year you would finally list your house for sale, you may have hit the brakes on those plans when the coronavirus pandemic arrived. But now, we’re more than six months into the COVID-19 era with no clear end in sight. As many people continue working and logging in to school from home, the real estate market is again heating up with buyers eager to upgrade to a new home. So stop putting it off: Now is the time to step on the gas in preparing your home to... [read more]

A man is walking home alone late one foggy night, when behind him he hears…rattle-BUMP-scrape... rattle-BUMP-scrape...rattle-BUMP-scrape… He looks back through the fog and he makes out the image of an upright casket banging down the middle of the street toward him…rattle-BUMP-scrape...rattle-BUMP-scrape... rattle-BUMP-scrape… Terrified, the man begins to run toward his home. The casket is bouncing quickly behind him... FASTER...FASTER...... [read more]

For all the stories about people being afraid to visit the dentist, a lot of people take their dental health quite seriously. Still, there is room for improvement. A survey conducted jointly by Crest, Oral-B, and AARP found that dental health ranks as one of the top three medical concerns of the over-50 generation, with 75 percent agreeing that “my dental and oral health care are very important.” In keeping with that, 74 percent say they visit a dentist at least twice a year, and... [read more]

Halloween may be one of the scariest holidays of the year, but people seem to take delight in being scared in every season. What’s the appeal of ghost stories, horror movies, frightening novels, and things that go bump in the night? Experts have a few theories: · We like the adrenaline. Fear has the same adrenaline-producing effect as excitement. It feels good. Scary movies, stories, and books are methods of releasing adrenaline in a controlled... [read more]

Love the idea of creating an interior environment that encapsulates the very essence of autumn? Use a gorgeous Thibaut wallcovering of printed silvery olive-brown fall leaves against an enchanting golden backdrop in your living room.   [read more]

Thanksgiving, or Thanksgiving Day, sometimes called Canadian Thanksgiving to distinguish it from the American holiday of the same name, is an annual Canadian holiday, occurring on the second Monday in October, which celebrates the harvest and other blessings of the past year.   Thanksgiving has been officially celebrated as an annual holiday in Canada since November 6, 1879. While the date varied by year and was not fixed, it was commonly the... [read more]

Welcome Guests Abundantly Fall = guests, family and get-togethers. Get your front porch ready for fall festivities with a pair of planters surrounded by an abundance of mums and real or faux pumpkins and gourds. Mix in a few lanterns to add a welcoming glow to evening gatherings. Cue the Copper Copper has continued to grow in popularity, making the glowing material the metal of the moment. A pretty copper pail can turn fresh-cut flowers or a bunch of branches into an eye-catching... [read more]

What do you notice when you visit a model home in a new development? Often, you will find wonderfully furnished and decorated rooms that anyone could live in. The operative word here is “anyone”. Sure, there might be a computer screen on a desk in the den, or a child’s doll sitting in a corner, but for the most part, all the rooms are anonymous. There is a sense... [read more]

In 2020 Labour Day is Monday September 7. Labour Day in Canada is celebrated on the first Monday of September and it is a federal statutory holiday. It is also observed in the United States on the same day. This holiday officially celebrates workers and the labour union movement, however, most of us only think of it as the last long weekend of the summer, a perfect occasion for one last BBQ or canoe trip. Many seasonal attractions and vendors close after the labour day long weekend and... [read more]

Small space? No problem. You can still customize what square footage you do have by thinking outside the box. If you’re after plants, simply stack them and create a vertical garden rather than spreading planters out across the floor. Nesting tables and hanging planters are also great space savers.   [read more]

The Greater Toronto Area neighbourhoods that saw the greatest price growth so far this year had a detached housing average value of $2.9 million, according to RE/MAX. In its recent analysis, RE/MAX said that the localities of Annex, Yonge-St. Clair, Casa Loma, and Wychwood had a 25.7% annual increase in detached housing prices during the first half of the year. “The areas of Yonge-St. Clair and Wychwood were recognized as being two of the top neighbourhoods to buy real estate in... [read more]

How safe is your smartphone? According to identity theft prevention experts, the amount of personal data contained on most smartphones is staggering. The following tips will help protect you from an identity theft and hacking nightmare: · Use a password. Think of your smartphone as an electronic wallet. If you could lock that wallet, why wouldn't you? · Use apps to shop. Many companies now have dedicated apps designed to ward off phishing and scams, so avoid... [read more]

There's some research to suggest that cinnamon may lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes and reduce cholesterol levels. It's also a very good source of fiber, with 4 grams per tablespoon, and, because of that warm, sweet flavor, it might also satisfy your cravings for treats without adding calories or fat. So stock up on that special tree bark—ground, of course.   [read more]

The beginning of any school year can bring on a few nerves for your kids. With some schools in-person, some online, and some mandating masks, your kids might have a little more anxiety about going back to school this year. I did a little research and wanted to share a few tips that I found to help manage your child’s anxiety.  When children are chronically anxious, even the most well-meaning parents can fall into a negative cycle and, not wanting a child... [read more]

Your debit card is a pretty simple piece of plastic. Swipe it, chip it, complete your transaction, and build your credit without any fees whatsoever. Wait a second – not so fast. Like many money myths, it turns out there are some misconceptions about your trusty debit card. And, we are all guilty of falling for these misnomers from time to time. So, without further ado, here are some common debit card myths you need to start dispelling right now. Myth #1: Debit cards are... [read more]

A game that’s been around for centuries, golf has evolved its own etiquette that might not be obvious if you haven’t played previously. There are a handful of things to keep in mind if you’re a new golfer that will make the experience easier for you, and your playing partners. Golf has a lot of rules—but the number one objective of the game should be for the players to always enjoy themselves. With an influx of new golfers coming to the game with golf as one of the... [read more]

Every day, our conversations online and off are filled with "did you hear this yet?" news about the coronavirus pandemic. And, alas, not all of what you hear is true—particularly when it comes to real estate. For instance: Do you assume, as many do, that it's a terrible time to sell a home since real estate prices are plummeting? On the contrary, the latest data shows that home prices and buyer demand are through the roof. Or have you heard that the coronavirus... [read more]

How'd you like to get some cash from Apple? If you owned or still have one of a half dozen older iPhone models, you actually can. And you should. In fact, you deserve it. As part of a proposed settlement over the company’s Batterygate controversy, in which Appledeliberately prevented chips in older iPhones from reaching their full processing power under certain conditions, the company has agreed to make payments totaling up to $500 million overall. Based on how many... [read more]

In an age of misinformation, something as simple as cleaning a cloth face mask can become incredibly confusing. What should you use to clean it? How should you clean it, and how often? We’ve likely read many of the same articles you have, and we’re still confused. Which is why we chose to turn to the science experts for some definitive advice on how to properly clean face masks. Apparently, it’s not all that complicated! Here are a few things to keep in mind before you... [read more]

The CiviThe Civic Holiday is celebrated on the first Monday of August and it's a public holiday in some provinces and territories. The civic holiday is not a statutory holiday although it's a day off for many employees across the country. Do you get the day off? The Civic Holiday is commonly referred to as the August long weekend. It is probably the busiest day on highways as tens of thousands of families go camping, to cottages etc this weekend. It is known by many... [read more]

Several men are in a golf club locker room. A mobile phone next to one of them rings. He reaches down and picks up the phone. "Yes, I can talk," he says. "You're out shopping, are you? That's nice." The listening men smile at each other. "You want to order those new carpets? Okay. And they'll include the  curtains for an extra five thousand? Sure, why not?" More smiles among the listeners. "You want to book that week to Aruba?... [read more]

The phrase “dog days” refers to the sultry days of summer, usually July and August. But where did the term dog days come from? The Romans associated hot weather with the star Sirius because it is the brightest star in the summer night sky. They referred to those days as dies caniculares, or dog days, because Sirius is in the constellation Canis Major (Large Dog). The dog days originally were the days when Sirius rose just before or at the same time as sunrise (heliacal... [read more]

During exertion the body produces heat. To lose excess heat, the body uses a combination of radiation (loss of heat), convection (cooler air movement), conduction (contact with cooler surfaces), and evaporation (sweating). If surroundings are hotter than the body, it is limited to shedding excess heat by evaporation of sweat alone. Unfortunately, copious sweating places a heavy load on circulation, which is needed to bring blood to the skin for cooling. As the body progressively dehydrates... [read more]

Would you like to give a fresh look to your house without breaking the bank? Try these extremely low-cost makeovers to give your house a face lift. · Wash instead of paint: If you can't afford to paint the home, how about giving it a good wash? Do not forget to scrub the screens, windows, and gutters, as well as the sidewalk and driveway while you're at it. · Paint the trim and front door: Your home's exterior will look crisper with fresh trim and front... [read more]

A math teacher asked seven-year-old Mica, “If I give you one apple and one apple and one apple, how many apples will you have in your bag?” Mica smiled and said confidently, “Four!” Dismayed, the teacher repeated the question more slowly. "Mica, listen. If I give you one apple...and one apple...and one apple, how many apples will you have?” Mica saw the disappointment on his teacher’s face. He wanted to make her happy, so he calculated carefully... [read more]

Updating upholstered furnishings is an easy way to refresh your home interior design. Old, tired patterns and fabrics can date your space; cushion covers and curtains are often the culprits. Replacing them is a simple home interior design idea, making a big difference when looking to freshen up your home. Opt for light and bright fabrics in unusual tones and patterns for longevity.     [read more]

Talk about a strange summer. Between the continued threat of the novel coronavirus, a wobbly economy, and layoffs happening left and right, it's no surprise that many who may have hoped to sell their home this season are wondering whether to put those plans on hold—or they've already thrown in the towel. Such hesitancy is understandable. Yet the irony is that, after closely examining the current housing market conditions, many real estate experts believe this summer could... [read more]

An amazing opportunity has been initiated by the Canadian government for students who are enrolled in post secondary schools this coming September to offer a student grant by volunteering remotely for a non-profit over the summer. The purpose of the Canada Student Service Grant is to address the lack of work opportunities for students this summer due to the pandemic. Students who apply will be required to volunteer (remotely from home) to help a non-profit organization. Depending on... [read more]

Canada Day Fireworks & Light Show CN Tower Light Show Canada Day The CN Tower will be celebrating Canada Day with an extraordinary 15-minute light show beginning at 10 p.m. July 1 that will be streamed at www.cntower.ca. With powerful light cannons beaming across the city sky and a playlist featuring music by a diverse group of Canadian artists simulcast on CHUM FM, 104.5, all of Toronto can tune in and look up, and all Canadians can watch the live stream from home and sing along to a... [read more]

When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and the 2 glasses of wine... A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was. The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured... [read more]

Spring is the best time to sell. Traditionally, real estate sales have peaked in spring, making it the optimal time to sell. The popularity of spring home sales once had a lot to do with buyers wanting to time a move around the kids' school schedules. Today's buyers are different, though. Many of them do not have children in school and so they are less likely to wait for spring to make a move. In this new market, a savvy seller knows that a house is more likely to sell fast... [read more]

Every senior is different, and difference is something to celebrate At Canadian Association of Retired People (CARP), we know that no two older adults are the same (despite governments’ attempts to place them in one neat and tidy little box). Our Members come in all shapes, sizes and colours, with unique backgrounds and lived experiences—a fact that we celebrate alongside them as we bring their voices forward on the... [read more]

Who does not love spending a warm summer night on the patio or front porch? Especially after the last few months. The right lighting can set the mood for a perfect summer night. Here are a few things to consider when deciding on the best lighting for your home. Consider three types: Ambient, Task & Accent: When mapping out your lighting, think about various types of lights. Incorporate one style or the whole package to set the perfect scene. Ambient lights are lights such as hanging... [read more]

Using a specific decor arrangement as a focal point is a great first step in creating a stunning entryway design. Many eye-catching arrangements use a console table as a stylish foundation. Place your small entryway table against a wall that is easily visible upon walking through your front door. You should decorate it like you would a mantle – use a bold centerpiece to anchor your decor, items of varying heights to add weight to either side, and smaller accents to fill in... [read more]

When I was a proofreader, I shared with my coworkers this example to illustrate how writing can skew based on gender: A professor wrote on the blackboard, “Woman without her man is nothing.” The students were then instructed to insert the proper punctuation. The men wrote, “Woman, without her man, is nothing.” The women wrote, “Woman! Without her, man is nothing.” —Susan Allen  [read more]

Check out some of these warning labels collected by the Michigan Law Suit Abuse Watch Web site: · “Remove child before folding.” (On a baby stroller) · “Harmful if swallowed.” (On a brass fishing lure with a three-pronged hook on the end) · “This product moves when used.” (On a popular scooter for kids) · “Do not use this product as a toy, pillow, or flotation device.” (On a bag of air... [read more]

As kids head off to college soon, many will be driving an old family car they've been given. For them, and for future generations of kids who are waiting for their chance at your car, here are some tips for making your car last longer: Battery: Keeping your car battery at full charge will extend its lifetime. Avoid using the radio, headlights, interior lights or other accessories when the engine is off. A new battery can cost your teen $50 to $100, and you don't want to leave them... [read more]

Here are a few items that store well that you might want to keep stocked for those occasions when you forget to buy something special for dinner. · Dried Penne Pasta - This is a fantastic replacement for elbow macaroni in mac and cheese. It can also serve as a starch component in any casserole. If you've got cooked penne in the fridge, you can add it to leftover veggies, toss the mixture with a little Italian dressing, and serve it as pasta salad. · Canned... [read more]

It's three o'clock in the afternoon, and you find yourself nodding off at your desk. You make your way to the break room for a cup of coffee and "something sweet." But wait! Practice these techniques, and replace caffeine and acetaminophen with good old oxygen. · For low energy and fatigue: Sit near the edge of your chair, holding onto the sides of your seat. Gently stretch your chest forward and up. Tilt your head back, and breathe deeply in and out through... [read more]

A businessman was standing at the pier of a small coastal Mexican village when a small boat with a fisherman docked. Inside the small boat were several large yellowfin tuna. The visiting tourist complimented the fisherman on the quality of his fish. "How long did it take you to catch them?" the businessman asked. "Only a little while" the fisherman replied. "Why don't you stay out longer and catch more fish?" the businessman then asked. "I have enough... [read more]

Canada Day, July 1Celebrating the date in 1867 the nation was officially born when the Constitution Act joined three provinces into one country: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Canada province, which then split into Ontario and Quebec. Independence Day, July 4. The date on which the British colonies of North America declared their independence from Great Britain. World Zoonosis Day, July 6. Zoonosis refers to any disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans, including mad... [read more]

We are all looking for a break now; here are a few ideas to help you take a daily mental escape. Meditate: Take time each day to clear your mind through meditation. Breathing exercises will help you clear the mental clutter. Exercise: Whether it’s a quick run or a relaxing walk, getting outside for exercise is a healthy way to escape any stress. You don’t need equipment; you just have to get up and go. Get Lost... [read more]

We love summer entertaining, especially when the party moves outside. Choose a comfortable outdoor seating set that encourages conversation and lingering. Bright outdoor pillows and throws for chilly summer nights are a must. If you’re creating a space that ties your indoor decor to the outdoors, choose accessories that fit into the color palette you already have in your home.   [read more]

The founder of Father’s Day was Sonora Smart Dodd, according to many historians. She was the daughter of a widowed Civil War veteran who had raised her on his own. Dodd came up with the idea when listening to a Mother’s Day sermon in 1909. She held her own special tribute for her father on June 19, 1910, in Spokane, Washington, and began a campaign for an official celebration thereafter. Initially the idea of Father’s Day was met with skepticism in the US. But in 1926 a... [read more]

A good shave has been coveted for thousands of years. It started in the Stone Age, when sharpened flint-blade razors edged out Neanderthal seashells for hair removal. Egyptians obsessed over hair removal in 3,000 B.C. They regarded a clean-shaven face as a sign of good breeding. And during the reign of Alexander the Great in 330 B.C., Greeks and Romans emulated the Egyptians by shaving their heads and beards. Across the ocean, Aztecs shaved with razors made from volcanic glass... [read more]

Memory can be elusive. But some scientists have identified an enzyme that may boost recall of forgotten memories—or help people purge those they don't want to retain. Scientists studying the enzyme PKM-zeta have found that by blocking it in the brains of rats, they could force rats to forget certain learned behaviors, such as avoiding a liquid that made them ill. A team of researchers from Israel and the US did the reverse, injecting rodents with viruses that carried genes to... [read more]

In ancient times there was a philosopher who had many disciples. One day a cynical man decided to humiliate him by asking him a question he couldn’t possibly answer correctly. The cynic put a recently hatched chick in the palm of his hand and asked the philosopher, in front of an audience, whether what he had in his hand was dead or alive. His intention, if the philosopher said “alive,” was to crush the chick and show the master to be wrong. If the philosopher said... [read more]

If you want to get out of the house and go out to eat but you’re short on cash, here are a few things you can do to lower your tab. · Eat a little before you go and then order a smaller meal or an appetizer at the  restaurant. · Don’t order desserts or beverages. These quickly and significantly increase your bill. · Whip up a cheap romantic dinner at home. Then head out later for dessert. · Split your dinner.... [read more]

A veterinarian was called to examine a twelve-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Bobber. The dog’s owners and their little boy, Caden, were all very attached to Bobber and they were hoping for a miracle. The vet examined Bobber and found he was dying. He told the family he couldn’t do anything for Bobber and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home. As they discussed arrangements, the parents told the vet they thought it would be good for... [read more]

1.  Pom Pom Flower Box If Mom loves flowers, fill up a window box for her with bright, beautiful blooms. This project requires a hot glue gun, and some supervision from an adult, but when it's done Mom will be delighted.   2.  Crayon Candle This project is a two-in-one: It makes a cute candle for Mom, and it also uses up those crayon nubs that are too small to color with. Be sure to include Mom's favorite colors!   3.  Painted... [read more]

Colours influence our emotions and mood in a number of surprising ways. According to colour psychology, the right paint shade may enhance productivity, promote calm, boost creativity levels and even increase your appetite.  We dug a little deeper to unlock the meaning behind your favourite paint colours and the rooms they work best in. Keep in mind, it’s not just colour that makes an impact; the intensity of the shade is also important.  Bedroom Your... [read more]

The CDC is now recommending the use of homemade face cloth coverings when people are out and about in areas such as grocery stores and pharmacies, where it may be difficult to avoid others. These new recommendations stem from the knowledge that the novel coronavirus is capable of infecting people who take a while to develop symptoms, or never develop symptoms at all – but may still be able to spread the virus during that time. By wearing a simple face covering when out in... [read more]

There's a good chance you only recently remembered that area in your house you designated as the office. Formerly a burial ground for unopened mail and boxes of junk, this space has probably become vital to your productivity of late—especially with the whole family home 24/7. But maybe it's not doing quite the job it could, as stylishly as it could. Which is why we came up with this list of easy home office DIY projects you can tackle while social distancing. Forget about... [read more]

In recent studies, there is "questionable" evidence that vitamin C prevents colds, except in one small class of people: athletes. In studies where vitamin C or a placebo was given to marathon runners, skiers and soldiers exposed to significant cold or physical stress, there was a 50% reduction in common cold incidence. For the rest of us, however, there is apparently no measurable effect. Could vitamin C, then, be a possible treatment for an established cold? Studies show that... [read more]

Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with the pandemic stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger. Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting. Here are a few ways to cope with stress.   Take care of your body Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate Try to eat healthy, well-balanced... [read more]

Homes that are staged by a Certified Home Stager sell 75% faster and for more money than those that are not. Over the years, Team Bev MacLean has staged numerous homes in Rosedale Village. However, with Covid19 the new trend is Virtual Staging and the results are amazing! It showcases the true potential of your property and provides a polished look to the rooms without accessing the home or bringing furniture and staging accessories to the house. If you are thinking of selling, or would like... [read more]

In the best of times, shopping for a house is a complicated and involved process—a big-ticket proposition involving lots of shopping around and meeting a ton of people so you're 100% sure you've picked the right place, at the right price. But, of course, these are not the best of times. Now that the coronavirus pandemic has people across the country hunkering down at home to lower their exposure levels, even the most determined home buyer might be wondering: Is it... [read more]

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Get the most out of your spring cleaning by using our spring cleaning checklist. Tackle every room in your house – from bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen to the living room. Every Room Wash Baseboards, door ceilings, window sills, doors, and walls. Vacuum and wash vents. Wash window treatments (drapes, etc.). Dust blinds. Wash Windows - inside and out Dust and shine overhead lights - replace burnt light bulbs. Dust and/or vacuum light fixtures and lamp... [read more]

These tips can help keep you, your family, and your community healthy. As the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19), continues to climb around the globe, one of the top questions people are asking is: What can we do to prevent it from spreading? It's a stressful time, to be sure — but there are simple, specific steps you can take to protect yourself and others from becoming infected. The first defense is washing your hands —... [read more]

With spring's recent arrival, it’s a hard time to be stuck at home. If you’ve joined the millions of Americans in a self-quarantine recently, then we’d bet you’re going a little stir-crazy by now—and ready for a change of scenery from the four walls of your living room. But there's good news! You can practice social distancing and shake up your view all at the same time. For inspiration, we took to Instagram (as we do every week) to seek out... [read more]

As the coronavirus spreads around the globe, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. "I told my children that while I didn't think that they were at risk right now, we, as a family, need to be preparing for significant disruption of our lives," says Dr. Nancy Messonnier of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Currently, if you live in the U.S. the risk of getting the virus remains very low, but public health officials say there will... [read more]

It has been a while since we had sun and a bit of warmth here in the north! Adding fresh flowers to any table in your home is like adding warmth and a bit of spring to your home. But until they are in bloom,  you can enjoy these beautiful DIY floral centerpiece to celebrate Spring and Easter! This is such a pretty 10 minute centerpiece idea for your Spring dining table! It would also look stunning on a coffee table! You can use faux floral branches for your arrangement and... [read more]

The spread of the deadly COVID-19 is scary, but health experts say the best way to protect yourself and your community is by taking some easy steps at home. In just a few weeks, the new coronavirus has made serious inroads into American communities, even as its global death toll grows. Many health experts are saying that the opportunity to contain the spread of the virus is over; now, it's time to do what we can to mitigate what the World Health Organization is now deeming a... [read more]

A boy was leaning against the wall outside a barber shop. He dialed his phone and began speaking to a lady on the other end. The barber was listening in. Boy: Ma’am, I’m wondering if you would hire me to cut your lawn? (pause while listening) But I’ll cut your lawn for half the price of the person who cuts your lawn now. (pause) But Ma’am, I'll even sweep your curb and your sidewalk, so on Sunday you will have the prettiest lawn in all of Palm Beach. (A moment... [read more]

Here are some fun food facts to wow your friends at the next cocktail party: · Worcestershire Sauce: Is made from dissolved fish (Anchovy). · Coca-Cola: The original formula called for a brown color to hide impurities in early manufacturing processes. · Strawberries: Have more vitamin C than oranges (when comparing similar serving sizes). · Vinegar: Melts pearls due to the calcium content. · Avocados: Have more protein... [read more]

I have represented many lottery winners during my career. A few have declared bankruptcy, several have gotten divorced, and one committed suicide, all after winning the lottery. It seems inconceivable, but, as one ex-wife explained, “Before we won the lottery, my husband used to go out drinking all night with his buddies and I would lock him out of the house and he’d have to sleep in his truck in the driveway. After we won the lottery, he just got a big suite at the Four Seasons... [read more]

When trying to decide a new direction in life, or when simply trying to put new energy into a project, try these techniques: · Select two or three thinkers who specialize in your area of interest. Study them to inform your perceptions. · See how others do it. Sometimes reaching out to a worker in another company but similar job can create a dynamic relationship that propels you both forward without office politics getting in the way. · Widen your... [read more]

“If you’re so smart, why aren’t you rich?” is a smart-aleck question to ask, but sometimes the wealthy have useful advice to impart. Here are a few words of wisdom from some of the world’s richest people: Steve Jobs (co-founder of Apple): “When I was 17, I read a quote: ‘If you live each day as if it was your last, some day you’ll most certainly be right.’ It made an impression on me, and for the past 33 years I have looked in the mirror... [read more]

The Street.com recently asked some financial planning pros for their best tips on living within a budget. One suggestion that sounds particularly intriguing is declaring a moratorium on spending. Commit to spending absolutely no money for one day a month. Try stretching it to two or three days if possible. You’ll find out how much money you spend without thinking about it, and you’ll break yourself of the habit of reaching for your wallet on impulse. And you may find more... [read more]

Salt has been used as a food preservative and flavor enhancer for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians, for example, left salted fish and birds as funeral offerings as far back as 3,000 B.C. The word “salary” comes from the Latin word “salarium”, which referred to wages paid to Roman soldiers to purchase salt.  Today, salt is everywhere, which has doctors worried. The average North American consumes about 3,400 mg of salt each day, far more than the American... [read more]

April seems to have more than a fair share of memorable days,        including: · April Fool’s Day. Sometimes referred to as All Fools' Day, April 1 is internationally recognized as a day when people play practical jokes and hoaxes on each other. · Talk Like Shakespeare Day, April 23, is for celebrating the birth of one of the greatest playwrights in history. Hint: Instead of cursing, try calling your tormenters... [read more]

If you find your mind wandering as the weather warms, blame it on your physiology. Scientists say spring fever isn’t just a state of mind but a biological imperative. Spring fever’s symptoms start during the vernal equinox. In the northern hemisphere, people begin to feel more energetic, enthusiastic, and amorous. Losing weight is easier and folks walk around smiling. The cause of such behavior is the chemical changes that take place in the body in part because of longer days... [read more]

Once, a wise man was walking from one town to another town with a few of his followers. While they were travelling, they came upon a lake. They stopped there and the wise man beckoned to one of his followers, a particularly eager-to-please young man. He said, “I am thirsty. Do get me some water from that lake there.” The follower eagerly ran to the lake. When he reached it, he saw people washing clothes and a bullock cart crossing through the lake. As a result, the water was... [read more]

A heartfelt thanks to our clients and friends who continue to support us year after year and refer family and friends. We sincerely appreciate you choosing us to be your trusted real estate professional. We look forward to your continued support and referrals, and promise to take very good care of them! Thanks to Amna Saleem, our Client Care Coordinator who is always there for us and a special thanks to Re/Max Realty Specialists for their amazing agent support team! [read more]

By Judy Dutton | Mar 5, 2020 The average interest on a 30‑year fixed-rate mortgage dropped to the lowest level in almost 50 years this week—and it's giving the housing market a jolt. Mortgage rates have just dropped to the lowest level in almost 50 years, compelling both homeowners and home buyers to get off the couch to take advantage of record-level savings on their mortgage. “The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage hit a record 3.29% this week,... [read more]

Subject: THANK YOU! Hi Gwyneth: I want to follow up to thank you from the bottom of my heart for referring Bev to    me. She has been beyond amazing. I immediately felt comfortable with her when we met and I trusted her with  everything. Bev was wonderful and she treated me with respect and almost like a daughter (which was comforting). She found me a perfect home and advocated and worked her butt off to make sure I got it! I could not be happier with everything... [read more]

The sky-high prices of major housing markets in Canada have moved the needle for the government and regulators to change the stress test. The federal government announced recently that the new benchmark rate for insured mortgages will be the weekly median five-year fixed insurance mortgage rate from mortgage insurance application plus 2%. Finance Minister Bill Morneau said the change will allow the stress test to rise and fall depending on the median interest rates of lenders. At the same... [read more]

According to an online survey of 972 people conducted by corporate trainer VitalSmarts (Provo, Utah), many people recognize what’s holding them back in their careers. 97% in the survey identified at least one career-limiting habit that prevents them from reaching their full potential at work. The top five bad habits: 1. Unreliability 2. The “It’s not my job” syndrome 3. Procrastination 4. Resistance to change 5. Negative... [read more]

Water. You turn on the faucet, and out it comes. But where did water on Earth originally come from? Some scientists believe that oceans may have been formed (about 8 million years after the formation of planet Earth itself) by water dumped from passing comets, and the recent discovery of a comet containing water with a similar chemical composition to the water all around us on Earth has given support to that theory. Hartley 2, a comet about 1.25 miles long, contains ice with the same D/H... [read more]

Too tired to work out? Too busy? Too...whatever? Here's a way to slip exercise into your day without heading to the gym or breaking for a long period. 5x5 exercise means to exercise vigorously five times per day for five minutes each time. When you get up in the morning, do morning calesthenics. Take five to do jumping jacks, run in place, do burpees, or put on the music and dance. Five minutes goes by quickly. On morning and afternoon breaks at work, instead of lounging in the... [read more]

If you’re tired of scrimping and saving, here are some ideas for spending your kids’ inheritance on yourself before you go: · Food. The priciest hamburger in the world is probably the FleurBurger. It’s made with foie gras and a special truffle sauce, served with black truffles on the side (and a bottle of Chateau Petrus 1990) at the Fleur de Lys in Mandalay Bay, in Las Vegas, for $5,000. · Drink. A bottle of Bowmore whiskey, a 54-year-old Scottish... [read more]

Everyone has heard of Murphy's first law: "If anything can go wrong, invariably it will." But hardly anybody knows who Murphy was. The search for Murphy's notebooks over the years has led to a garage in Toledo, Ohio; an inventor's junk loft in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania; and the home of a retired female blackmailer in Sarasota, Florida. It was learned that Murphy had no first name, that he never could hold a job, and that his writings were returned by the post office for... [read more]

· Officially, Spring begins Thursday, March 19 and ends on Saturday, June 20. · The saying “In like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb” refers to a prediction about the weather. If it’s stormy and raining in early March, it will be mild and pleasant in late March and April. This was probably more true of Wales, where the phrase is thought to have come from. · Until well into the 1700’s in some places (including the American colonies),... [read more]

A legend tells of a French monastery known throughout Europe for extraordinary harmony due to the leadership of a man called Brother Leo. Several monks from another monastery began a 5-day pilgrimage to visit Brother Leo to learn his leadership secrets so they could bring peace and harmony to their own monastery, which was a place of some bickering. As they began their journey, almost immediately, they began to bicker about who should do various chores each time they made camp or packed... [read more]

· In the northern half of the earth, February is the coldest month of the year, opposite of the southern half,  which experiences the hottest month. · The second day of February is a whimsical day called Ground Hog's Day. The story goes that the ground hog comes out of his burrow on February 2 to look for his shadow. If there is sunshine and he sees his shadow, then he goes back into his burrow to sleep for six more weeks of winter. If he... [read more]

Are you looking to travel in 2020? Each one of these awe-inspiring bucket list destinations is sure to make this year memorable. Grand Canyon, USA Despite being documented, and raved about with breathless awe by everyone from Teddy Roosevelt to aspiring Instagram influencers, the glory of the Grand Canyon is impossible to express; you just have to go. A wonder of the natural world, this crown jewel of the American National Parks System is the result of billions of years of... [read more]

One of the best ways to make family memories is to spend some good old fashioned time together. Kids will often remember that awesome game night or classic book you read together as a family. We’ve been making more of an effort to disconnect from technology and enjoy an occasional family day with our kids. These 5 awesome family day activities are great ways to connect with your kids and encourage some new family hobbies! PLAY A BOARD GAME A family board game night is a fun and... [read more]

Call in a Pro to Declutter The longer you live in a house, the less you see the mess over time. Sometimes you need a fresh pair of eyes. You can hire an organizer for a few hours to tackle bookshelves and closets, which stagers say are often packed with twice the amount of stuff they should hold. Whittling down what's on your shelves by 50 percent. Then mix horizontal stacks of books among the vertical rows and intersperse decorative objects, such as bowls or vases, among them. [read more]

Maybe it’s been a while since your living room got any love. We get it—it’s easy to get sidetracked by all the different ways you can upgrade your kitchen or bathroom. But the living room has played second fiddle long enough. If you’re ready to let this room take center stage, there are lots of ways you can add some oomph to the social hub of your home—without shelling out big bucks for a contractor and interior designer. Here are a... [read more]

Timing is a crucial consideration when selling a home. A study by RE/MAX said it is ideal put properties for sale during the months of February, March, and April. RE/MAX said while the weather is not ideal during February, the month allows home sellers to gain exposure before the spring rush. "The normally low inventory in February means less competition. The timing of February is also good in terms of people beginning to either start (or) resume their house hunt after the busy... [read more]

It’s a brand-new decade and there’s a good chance you're reflecting on your choices over the past 10 years. Maybe you're patting yourself on the back for taking that job across the country. Perhaps you wish you could undo that three-year relationship that sucked the life out of you. Or maybe—just maybe—you're surveying your home, and you have the sudden urge to get rid of everything in it. After all, as we head into 2020, now is the perfect time... [read more]

For 40 years, two friends lived on adjoining farms, separated by a wide creek. One day the friends began to fight over a petty thing and their long friendship fell apart. The misunderstanding grew into bitter words and finally, silence. Weeks later there was a knock on John's door. He opened it to find a man with a carpenter's toolbox. "I'm looking for a bit of work," said the carpenter. "I have a job for you," said John. "Look across the creek at that... [read more]

1. Run your finances like a business. You should treat your budget like a business, because in the  business of life, the bottom line matters. Many of the same principles business owners use can be applied to your personal life: prioritize your spending, assess your profits and losses, and don't lose sight of the big picture, like saving for retirement or getting out of debt.  2. Make saving part of your lifestyle. Saving money doesn't always come naturally.... [read more]

My college English professor was a hard grader. One February day I received a B-minus on a research paper. In hopes of  bettering my grade, I sent her a Valentine’s Day card with the inscription: “BE MINE.” The following day, I  received a valentine from the teacher. It read: “Thank you, but it’s still BE MINE-US.”                                    ... [read more]

Living in a large home is great for some families, but for others the cost and energy required to maintain them is burdensome. That’s why 60 percent of people living in homes over 2,000 square feet in size say they’d rather move to a smaller home next time according to a sruvey last year from Trulia. Moving into a smaller house can be a great move (pun intended) financially and mentally. After all, less square footage means lower utility bills and less space for clutter to... [read more]

A simple home decor idea for your living room is to replace your throw pillows. Throw pillows are an easy way to accessorize and brighten a room, whether you buy them or make your own. Homeowners should throw out their older throw pillows and replace them with bright, fuller pillows-or just buy crisp new pillow covers. "Mix and match colors and textures and blend different groupings. But more is not better. "There can be too many pillows, so make sure you don't go... [read more]

Another year has come to an end, and another has just begun. So, now that the new year is here, what resolutions are you going to make? Making New Year's resolutions is a time-honored tradition all around the world. We all hope for a better future--especially when the year we're leaving behind has been a tough one. According to research on the topic, about 60 percent of us admit that we make New Year's resolutions but only about 8 percent of us are... [read more]

Research has shown that about half of all adults make New Year’s resolutions. However, fewer than 10% manage to keep them for more than a few months. As a professor of behavioral addiction, I know how easy people can fall into bad habits and why on trying to give up those habits it is easy to relapse. Resolutions usually come in the form of lifestyle changes and changing behavior that has become routine and habitual (even if they are not problematic) can be hard to do. The most... [read more]

If you haven’t done all of your holiday gift shopping yet, then here are some ideas for inexpensive gifts with staying power long after the holidays are over.     Magazine subscriptions. Yes, made of paper—not electrons. People still enjoy flipping pages, and magazines make great gifts that keep on giving all year long.   Food items. Drop by a World Market or other exotic foods store and put together a selection of interesting chocolates or unusual... [read more]

Save yourself this Christmas If the festive season usually leaves you out of pocket and feeling like you spent more time and money battling the crowds than relaxing with friends and loved ones, why not simplify things this year?  Here are some quick and easy tips to help you enjoy the holiday season without breaking the bank. 1. Have a pre-Christmas clean up There's still time to bag some extra cash to boost your festive finances. Spend a few hours clearing out anything you... [read more]

I don’t know what it is, doc,” the young man said. “I just don’t feel good.” The doctor examined him and ran some tests. Then she talked to her nurse and came into the examination room with three bottles of different-colored pills. “OK,” the doctor said. “I want you to take one blue pill with a large glass of water every two hours. I want you to take a green pill with a large glass of water every three hours. And then take one of the yellow... [read more]

Playing action-packed video games may make people more violent, but do calm, peaceful games bring on a mood of relaxed serenity?  Maybe so, according to experiments conducted by researchers at Ohio State University. First, they had to find a relaxing video game. They settled on Endless Ocean, which simulates scuba diving and gentle underwater exploration. Then they took a group of 150 college students and randomly assigned them to play either a violent game like Resident Evil 4, a... [read more]

The next time your small child throws a temper tantrum, try giving a hug instead of a lecture. You might be surprised at how effective a hug can be in quieting a child in the midst of a meltdown. Hugs can defuse a child’s hurt or anger, making it easier for him or her to listen to what you have to say. Once calm, your child can take part in a larger discussion about the problem and his or her behavior. Children do better when they feel secure and loved, no matter what. [read more]

The success of any team (not to mention your own family!) depends on the positive attitudes of the members and the leader. Demonstrate—and reinforce—these important personal guidelines: · Ego control. Remember, be committed to the goals of the team, not your own ambitions. Can you and the rest of your team put the group’s priorities first? · Admitting mistakes. Be willing to honestly concede errors so the team can move... [read more]

Happy January, the traditional first month of the year! But how did January get to be the first month of the year? Consider that until the 1700s, calendars were not always as we see them today. January 1 became the first day of the new year when Julius Caesar reorganized the Roman calendar and made it solar rather than lunar In the year 45 B.C.E. he moved the beginning of the year to January 1. When the Gregorian calendar—which most of the world uses today—was introduced in... [read more]

Throwing a party is often a matter of the right combination of providing your guests relaxation and enough structure that they are able to enjoy themselves. A savvy host knows there are many ways to do this. Here are a few tips for throwing a winning party:        ¨ Set the tone. If you really want everyone to relax and have fun make sure that you are completely organized. ¨ Whatever you’re going to serve, have it ready, and know how... [read more]

Hungry for a quick snack? Nuts are tasty, convenient, and healthy. Their fiber and unsaturated fats can help lower LDL (“bad cholesterol”) levels, and contain omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, both good for the heart. Just choose wisely. Although all nuts have health benefits, they’re best eaten raw or dry-roasted, not covered with chocolate, salt, or sugar. Here’s the breakdown on some of the most popular nuts (roasted, serving size 1 ounce): • Pistachios:... [read more]

1. The wind chill factor is a measure of heat loss from exposed skin. 2. If it gets cold enough, ice crystals can form and snow can fall from clear skies. 3. All snowflakes have 6 sides. 4. A whiteout is also called a snow squall. It occurs when a cloud touches the ground. 5. Hot water freezes faster than cold water. 6. The "winter blues" were first diagnosed in 1984. And have recently been named seasonal affective disorder or S.A.D.... [read more]

'Tis the season to be jolly! Yet for many people, the holidays can also be synonymous with stress. One way to make sure you experience the warmth of the season is to slow down and remember to acknowledge all the things and people in your life that make you feel grateful. What is gratitude? Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what you receive, whether tangible or intangible. With gratitude, you acknowledge the goodness in your life. And because, in the process, you recognize that the... [read more]

I'll wear a little poppy, As red as red can be, To show that I remember Those who fought for me. [read more]

Finances. Drugs. Relationships. These can be tough issues to discuss with your children, but you can’t afford to neglect them. Here are some principles to guide you in keeping the lines of communication open: · Create an open environment. Let your children know that you are available to listen whenever they have questions or just want to talk. · Give your undivided attention. Drop everything to listen when your child approaches you, no matter what... [read more]

Scientists are thinking that the world’s oldest bird may not really be a bird after all. Paleontologists have long considered the archaeopteryx the world’s oldest bird. Fossilized remains were discovered in 1861, revealing an ancient animal with the feathers and wings of a bird, but the tail and teeth of a dinosaur. Classified as an avian, their status is now in doubt thanks to new research conducted by scientists at China’s Linyi University. As reported by the Guardian,... [read more]

With winter upon us, many of you probably already have your furnace running. If you haven’t turned it on yet, or haven’t done the maintenance yet, here are some quick tips. 1. Turn off the gas and electricity to the furnace. 2. Vacuum the furnace interior everywhere you can reach. 3. Change the air filter. 4. Check the fan belt for wear--glazing, cracking, or fraying. The belt should be taut. Tighten by loosening the attachment bracket and moving the... [read more]

When people share their goals with you, do you help them launch their dreams—or try to bring them back to Earth? In his book The Man Who Listens to Horses (Ballantine), famed horse trainer Monty Roberts tells about the time one of his teachers in high school assigned a paper called “My Goals in Life.” The teacher, Mr. Fowler, was interested only in practical goals—not fantasies about going to Hollywood to become a movie star, and the like. But young Monty had a... [read more]

¨ He thrusts his fists against the posts and still insists he sees the ghosts. ¨ Creepy crawler critters crawl through creepy crawly craters ¨ Dracula digs dreary, dark dungeons. ¨ Ghostly ghouls gather gleefully to golf on ghostly golf courses. ¨ Gobbling gargoyles gobbled gobbling goblins ¨ Horribly hoarse hoot owls hoot howls of horror in Halloween haunted houses. ¨ If big black bats could blow bubbles, how big... [read more]

If you tend to procrastinate, or drag your feet getting a task done, here's a simple technique that might help: Start using a timer. If you avoid tasks like cleaning the house, set the timer on your stove or phone for 15 minutes, then make an agreement with yourself to clean like mad for just those 15 minutes. The timer has a way of making the task more bearable because it has an end time. You can "bear" it for 15 minutes. It's likely that you'll keep going after that... [read more]

You've got your costume picked out, candy buckets filled, and party all planned — all that's left to do for the best Halloween ever is put your knowledge to the test. How much do you really know about Halloween? Turns out it's not only about who gets the most chocolate or creates the scariest costume. Over the centuries, the holiday has evolved from a way of begging for food to one of the most commercialized days of the... [read more]

Cold season is coming. Most colds begin in late August or early September, increasing slowly for a few weeks, then remaining high until March or April. The increase may be due to the opening of schools and to cold weather, which prompts people to spend more time indoors and increase the chances that viruses will spread from person to person. Also the most common cold-causing viruses survive better when humidity is low—during the colder months of the year. Cold weather also may make the... [read more]

Despite being called out for their ineptitude at saving money and their overwhelming fondness for spending it on experiences instead of things, millennials actually do desire financial stability—especially if it means they can buy a house. So what kind of homes do they want? According to real estate professionals, a large majority of millennials seeks out properties that are move-in ready—with plenty of room for customization. "They care more about the home... [read more]

Maybe you’ve bought and sold a home before, or maybe this is the first time. Regardless, now you need to get top dollar for it. Yes, you can tidy up, bake some cookies so the house smells nice, and place fresh flowers (research says roses, lavender, and fuchsia most sway buyers) around the house. But these are the typical techniques most sellers deploy. Really want to get the best price possible—or even spark a bidding war? Here are 10 tips that are seldom mentioned in listing... [read more]

Follow these auto insurance tips to help you avoid issues and save money over the snowbird season! Whether you’re taking your car to the U.S. or leaving it in Canada for the winter, snowbirds have unique auto insurance issues to consider. Before you leave for the season, it’s a good idea to review your coverage to ensure that you have appropriate and sufficient coverage for your vehicles. Start by reading your auto insurance policy carefully with regards to travel to... [read more]

The History of Grandparents Day Marian McQuade hoped to establish a national day that would honour grandparents, and in 1970 she began a campaign to do so. McQuade raised awareness about senior citizens throughout the 1970s. In 1978, President Jimmy Carter declared the first Sunday after Labor Day to be National Grandparents Day.  Each year, the president issues a proclamation to keep the tradition going. Grandparents Day has both an... [read more]

Fall is the perfect time to take care of the little things that can make a big difference for you and your home. Most of the tasks listed below are well with- in the average person’s ability. But even if you choose to have a professional handle them, it’s worth the expense. You’ll save money – and maybe even your life. Get your mind in the gutters. Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts. Button up your overcoat. Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors with... [read more]

Pringles were originally called “Pringles Newfangled Potato Chips.” However, due to the fact that they only contain about 42% potato based content, with most of the rest being from wheat starch and various types of flour, including corn and rice flour, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration made them change the name because their product didn’t technically meet the definition of a potato chip. Their use of the word “chip” was also restricted, forcing them to... [read more]

If you spend most of the winter outside Canada, you may want to explore the opportunity to rent out your Canadian home while you’re away.  Renting out your Canadian residence can have a number of benefits, including helping to cover the costs of your winters away. The extra income can be used to supplement or even offset the cost of your winter home or rental. Another benefit is that your home will be lived in and therefore you won’t have to find someone to inspect it daily... [read more]

Wills and powers of attorneys aren’t just for the wealthy - they are essential legal documents everyone should have, as they dictate how you or your assets are to be cared for or dealt with in the event you pass away or become incapacitated. A properly drafted and executed will (or wills) ensures that your assets are distributed, and your minor children are taken care of, according to your wishes in the event of your death.  Powers of attorney are equally important documents that... [read more]

People with type 2 diabetes often do not have any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they are often ignored because they may not seem serious. Take a look at yourself and your loved ones for these common symptoms of diabetes, keeping in mind that type 2 diabetes develops slowly over many years, and may present only one or two symptoms initially: · Fatigue. · Nausea, perhaps vomiting. · Blurred vision. · In women, frequent vaginal... [read more]

You depend on your car, and you take good care of it. But you don’t have to throw lavish amounts of money at it. Take heed of this money-saving advice: · Stick with normal tires. Don’t let dealers talk you into super-grip performance tires unless you drive a sports car and really need them. Most high-performance tires are more expensive and don’t last as long as regular tires. · Don’t change the oil more than you need to. Check your... [read more]

Refried beans are only fried once. The reason for the misconception around the name is a translation error. The originals are frijoles refritos which actually means “well fried beans” – not re-fried. Worcestershire sauce, the popular English sauce, is made from dissolved anchovies. The anchovies are soaked in vinegar until they have completely melted. The sauce contains the bones and all. Coconut water can be used (in emergencies) as a substitute for blood plasma. The... [read more]

An elderly husband and wife noticed that they were beginning to forget many little things around the house. So, they decided to go see their physician to get some help. Their physician told them that many people their age find it useful to write themselves little notes as reminders. The elderly couple thought this sounded wonderful, and left the doctor's office very pleased with the advice. When they got home, the wife said, "Dear, will you please go to the kitchen and get me a dish... [read more]

We know it well as the standard symbol for e-mail, but where did it come? History says that the @ symbol was created by medieval monks. During the Middle Ages, each copy of a book was painstakingly transcribed by hand. The task went to monks, who developed ways to reduce the number of pen strokes for common words. The result was to loop the “t” in the word at around the “a.”   [read more]

The summer months are the prime golfing season. The origins of this popular (and frequently frustrating) game are unclear, though some historians trace it back to an ancient Roman game called paganica, in which players used a bent stick to hit a leather ball. A stained glass window dating back to 1340 in Gloucester Cathedral in England shows someone swinging something that looks like a golf club. And a Ming dynasty scroll, also from the 14th century, depicts a member of the Chinese imperial... [read more]

A spoonful of sugar may, as Mary Poppins sang, help the medicine go down. But too many spoonfuls will probably increase your need to take medicine in the first place. Too much sugar—or rather, the unproductive calories it delivers to the body—can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease, among other health problems. How much is too much? An American Heart Association study found that Americans consume an average of 22 teaspoons a day (during 2001-2004). AHA guidelines... [read more]

A minister was retiring, and after his final sermon, he stood at the door of his church to say farewell to his parishioners. One old woman told him, “I’m sure our next pastor won’t be as good as you’ve been.” The minister was flattered but tried to be modest. “Oh, I’m sure he’ll be fine. What makes you say that?” “I’ve been here for the last five pastors,” said the lady, “and each one has been worse than the one... [read more]

One of the most important ingredients in scrambled eggs is air. It would be nice if we could just dollop a Tablespoon of air into the mixing bowl, but for the time being, incorporating air into beaten eggs requires good old-fashioned elbow grease. The more you whisk, the more air bubbles become trapped in the shaken and unraveling protein of the eggs. As the eggs cook, protein molecules firm-up around the air bubbles resulting in a spongy texture and hopefully full and fluffy scrambled eggs.... [read more]

You're a statistic. To an insurer, you're not a person; you're a set of risks. An insurer bases its premium on your "risk factors," including occupation, who you are, what you own, and how you live. Know your home's value. Before you choose a policy, it is essential to establish your home's replacement cost. A local builder can provide the best estimate. Insurers differ. What seems to be the same product can be priced differently by different companies. Save... [read more]

Of all the ways you can improve your life to be the best it can be, the one thing that underlies all is vitality. You probably have noticed you’re more vital when you feel good.  After a good night’s sleep, you have more energy than after a poor night’s sleep. After eating light, you have more energy than when you eat heavy. After having a success at something, you feel more alive than you do after you fail at something. When you feel vital, it’s easier to get... [read more]

The Popsicle was invented by an 11-year-old who kept it secret for 18 years. The inventor was Frank Epperson who, in 1905, left a mixture of powdered soda and water out on the porch, which contained a stir stick. That night, temperatures in San Francisco reached a record low. When he woke the next morning, he discovered that it had frozen to the stir stick, creating a fruit flavored ice treat that he humbly named the epsicle. Eighteen years later he patented it and called it the... [read more]

Here’s a quick story to observe World Environment Day and illustrate the difficult balance in managing natural resources. In 1968 Garrett Hardin wrote this article to describe a common grassland in which several farmers allow their cattle to graze. In order to increase individual wealth, it is in the interest of each farmer to enlarge their herd and continue to graze on the same piece of land. But after the threshold of a certain number of cattle is exceeded, the quality of the land... [read more]

· Steam-clean your microwave. Cut a lemon in half and put it in a microwave-safe dish filled with water. Zap it until the water boils. Let it steam for another minute before opening. The gunk can now be wiped away with less effort. · Speed up dryer time. Throw one clean dry towel in with your wet clothes before starting the dryer. 10-15 minutes later, take it out. The dry towel will absorb some of the excess moisture. · Clean scorched pans. Fill the... [read more]

June 16th is Father’s Day! It’s a celebration honoring fathers and celebrating fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. In some societies, Father’s Day is a celebration for men to get together and hike or have a physical adventure to celebrate their manhood. June 5th is World Environment Day, an annual event sponsored by the U.N. aimed at being the biggest and most widely celebrated global day for positive environmental action. World Environment... [read more]

The effort put into fatherhood is a man's most important work. Our need to do something important and enduring is built into us by nature. Taking a long view of the eons of human existence, it becomes apparent that raising our children is as essential to human survival as is eating or breathing. The quality of our work will directly affect the quality of that existence, just as our forefathers' love and work gave us the qualities we needed to get us this far.   [read more]

A Status Certificate is a short report on the current status of a condominium corporation. If you are buying a resale condominium, it is important that your agreement of purchase and sale is conditional, upon review of the Status Certificate by your lawyer. The Status Certificate provides valuable information directly from the condominium corporation, examples of such information include arrears or increases in common expenses; Whether any major work needs to be done to the building(s); The... [read more]

Two sons work for their father on the family farm. The younger son has for years been given more responsibility and reward, and one day the older son asks his father to explain why. The father says, "First, go to the Kelly's and see if they have any geese for sale." The son soon returns with the answer, "Yes they have five geese they can sell us." The father then says, "Good, please ask them the price." The son returns with the answer, "The geese... [read more]

What we say when we’re… · 4 Years Old - My mommy can do anything. · 8 Years - Mom knows a lot. · 12 Years - Mom doesn't know quite everything. · 14 Years - Naturally, my mother doesn't know what’s going on. · 16 Years – Mom is so old-fashioned. · 18 Years - That old woman? She's way out of date. · 25 Years - Mom knows something about... [read more]

Charisma means “divine gift,” and it’s used to describe people with powerful charm and personal magnetism. But it’s not always a gift—many people develop charisma by learning how to connect with people. You can too, using these techniques: Physical presence—Whether or not you’re handsome or beautiful, you can boost your physical charisma: · Take care of your overall health. Healthy people are more attractive. · Make... [read more]

What is Thermogenic Food? It’s food that raises your metabolism slightly, helping to burn off calories. The best known of these foods are spicy peppers and green tea. But the actual thermogenic effects of those foods are fairly low—about 80 calories at most when consumed in high quantity. The best way to get a thermogenic effect is to combine different foods. Since fat has the lowest thermogenic effect, and protein the highest, a diet low in fat and high in lean protein will give... [read more]

Kids in the U.S. and Canada grow up expecting a delivery of decorated eggs and candy from the Easter bunny each year, but that tradition may seem odd to some. Brought to this country by German immigrants in the 1700s, the practice is rooted in the belief that rabbits and eggs symbolize fertility and rebirth. While this may be the norm in Canada and America, other cultures have their own unique Easter celebrations. Whether it's drenching one another with water in... [read more]

Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament of the Bible, the event is said to have occurred three days after Jesus was crucified by the Romans and died in roughly 30 A.D. [read more]

1998: Burger King published a full page advertisement in USA Today announcing the introduction of a new item to their menu: a "Left-Handed Whopper" specially designed for the 32 million left-handed Americans. According to the ad, the new whopper included the same ingredients, but rotated 180 degrees for the benefit of their left-handed customers. The following day Burger King revealed that although the Left-Handed Whopper was a hoax, thousands of customers had gone into... [read more]

When you first start using coupons, expect a 25-30% reduction in your grocery bill. Over time, with attention to details, you can save 30-50%. And with extreme couponing, you can reach the more than 50% level. · Don't use coupons the week they come out. Stores jack up prices in anticipation. · Use coupon-matching websites such as SavingsAngel, CouponMom and The Grocery Game, and combine manufacturers' and in-store coupons to maximize... [read more]

The history of April Fools’ Day, or All Fools’ Day, is uncertain, but the current thinking is that it began around 1582 in France with the reform of the calendar under Charles IX. The Gregorian Calendar was introduced, and New Year's Day was moved from March 25 - April 1 (new year's week) to January 1. Many people were rebellious and refused to acknowledge the change. They continued to celebrate New Year’s on the last day of the former celebration, April... [read more]

A woman ran a garden store that had been in the family for three generations. For as long as anyone could remember, the garden store’s business was always great and the owner and staff were happy and cheerful. People often said, “Who wouldn’t be happy with the kind of business they’re doing?” When anyone new came into the garden store, they’d notice that all the staff wore a big badge that read, Business Is Great! Everyone who saw the badge for the... [read more]

Get ready for sunnier days, whether you have an hour or a weekend to spare. The first official day of spring is March 20. So whether there’s still snow on the ground or flowers in bloom, you can rest assured that nicer weather is on its way. Usher in the new season with a bit of spring cleaning, some fresh flowers and — if you can get outdoors — a little dirt under your fingernails. Things to Check Off Your List in an Hour or Less 1. Make mirrors and table lamps... [read more]

Scientists have known since the 1930s that plants sense the length of the days and, somehow, use that information to decide when to flower. Russian scientists back then speculated that a mysterious substance must be transported from leaves to shoot tips, stimulating the formation of flower buds. They called the mystery chemical “florigen.” In 2005, a trio of new studies revealed how it works, including why flowers spring forth in certain spots on a plant. The findings were... [read more]

Sunday, March 17th is St. Patrick’s Day. Why do we bother to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day around the world? Obviously, you might say, the day is to honour Ireland's patron saint, who introduced Catholicism to the Irish and rid their land of snakes. But that's not really what we're celebrating, is it? We're really using it as an excuse to wear green and throw a big party. Everyone knows the Irish love a good party. Our methods of celebrating might differ around the... [read more]

Everyone has heard of Murphy's first law: "If anything can go wrong, invariably it will." But hardly anybody knows who Murphy was. The search for Murphy's notebooks over the years has led to a garage in Toledo, Ohio; an inventor's junk loft in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania; and the home of a retired female blackmailer in Sarasota, Florida. It was learned that Murphy had no first name, that he never could hold a job, and that his writings were returned by the post office for... [read more]

As a professional photographer, Julie took a lot of pride in her work. One evening she was at a dinner party with a master chef. The chef asked to view some of Julie's images, and afterwards complimented her. “These are really good," he told her. “You must have a great camera to get shots this nice.”    After dinner, Julie complimented the host on his wonderful food. “That dinner was excellent,” she said. “You must have some high... [read more]

Socrates was once approached by a man who asked the great teacher to help him to become a better student. The master took the would-be student into the water and suddenly pushed him under and held him there. Surging to the surface, out of breath, the young man gasped, “Why did you do that?” Socrates answered, “When you want to learn as badly as you wanted to breathe, you will.”   [read more]

Too tired to work out? Too busy? Too...whatever? Here's a way to slip exercise into your day without heading to the gym or breaking for a long period. 5x5 exercise means to exercise vigorously five times per day for five minutes each time. When you get up in the morning, do morning calesthenics. Take five to do jumping jacks, run in place, do burpees, or put on the music and dance. Five minutes goes by quickly. On morning and afternoon breaks at work, instead of lounging in the... [read more]

Making any kind of prediction about the real estate market is a risky proposition. The website of Housing Finance magazine, though, cautions readers to be wary of these age-based assumptions: Generation Y doesn’t want to buy a house. In fact, one survey of over 1,200 members of Generation Y found that about 36 percent already own a house, and 70 percent of those who don’t own a home expect to buy one by their early 30s. Baby Boomers want “Independent Senior... [read more]

You may want to give gum-chewing a second thought. Researchers say chewing stimulates signals in the learning center of your brain and may help you save your memory as you age. Chewing gum also burns 11 calories an hour. Here are some other foods that have healthy surprises: Tea is good for your bones. Researchers first thought that because tea contained caffeine it would deplete the calcium supply, which could lead to weaker and brittle bones in old age. But more recent research proved... [read more]

Excellent customer service comes from people who care, not company policy. Take this example of a front-desk clerk at Walt Disney World’s Polynesian Village resort. As a guest was checking out, she told the desk clerk that she had a wonderful visit but had been heartbroken when she lost several rolls of film she hadn’t yet        developed. The clerk not only sympathized with the guest, she also told the woman to leave a couple of unused rolls.... [read more]

  A strong relationship is founded on communication and sharing.  So how much do you know about your partner or spouse?  Try these simple questions — the more you can honestly answer “yes” to, the firmer ground you’re on:  I know who my partner’s best friends are. I can describe my partner’s greatest ambition. I can name my partner’s favorite singer or musical group. My partner appreciates the things I do for... [read more]

Being a mother can be stressful. But admitting that you sometimes need a break can be hard, given the expectations that society has for the “perfect” mother. A survey of some 25,000 moms (reported on the Parenting.com website) uncovered some secrets about what mothers want, and don’t want, from their lives. Some of the longings and preferences the mothers admitted to were: • 23 percent say what they want most is some time alone. • 49 percent have sent their... [read more]

Real Estate Staging is the process of preparing a home for sale. Staging is really about un-decorating and removing years of living, collecting & decorating so a buyer can visualize themselves living in the home. When a seller "lets go" of some of their own things, it then gives permission for the buyer to buy! There are many benefits of staging your home for sale. Here are the top 5 reasons. 1. Staging is always less than your first price reduction. In most cases a price... [read more]

This January start the year with an empty jar. Each week add a note with a good thing that happened. On New Year's Eve empty the jar and read about the amazing year you had. [read more]

Your family photos are irreplaceable.  Have you ever worried about losing your treasured family history in a disaster?  Have you ever asked yourself how your photos would fare in the case of fire or floodwaters?  Are your storage methods failsafe? Now there is another alternative to help ensure that your photo treasures are not lost – online photo storage.  There are many sites with service available and lots of them are safe, fun and free.  Just type... [read more]

To leave the old with a burst of song, to recall the right and forgive the wrong. To forget the thing that binds you fast to the vain regrets of the year that’s past. To have the strength to let go your hold of the not worthwhile of the days grown old. To dare to go forth with a purpose true, to the unknown task of the year that’s new. To help your brother along the road to do his work and lift his load.. To add your gift to the world’s good cheer is to have and... [read more]

A New Year’s resolution is a promise a person makes for the new year. Regardless of what resolution you commit to, the goal is to improve life in the coming year. Resolutions can come in many forms. Some people make a promise to change a bad habit, such as quitting smoking or eating less junk food. Other people make a promise to develop a positive habit, such as starting exercise program, ... [read more]

Province Helping Seniors Stay Active and Socially Connected Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility Ontario is helping seniors stay active and connected to their communities by investing in up to 40 new Seniors Active Living Centres across the province. Dipika Damerla, Minister of Seniors Affairs, joined by Vic Dhillon, MPP, Brampton-West, was at the Villa Polonia in Brampton today to announce the recipients of new Seniors Active Living Centre funding. CANES Community Care is receiving... [read more]

                                                                                                                                             ... [read more]

An elderly man living in Phoenix calls his son in New York and says, “I hate to ruin your day, but I have to tell you that your Mother and I are divorcing.  Forty-five years of misery is enough.” The son gets all excited and responds, “Pop, what are you talking about?  You can’t divorce Mom after all these years.  That’s crazy.” “It may be crazy,” says the old man, “but I am going to tell her on Christmas Day.  It... [read more]

We all know how great it feels to receive gifts. However, the joy of getting is short-lived. Our lives are richer when we share, and that great inner joy comes from helping others to better their lives. Truly giving from the heart fills your life with joy and nourishes your soul. Giving provides an intrinsic reward that’s far more valuable than the gift. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “To find yourself, lose yourself in the service of others.” Giving takes you out of... [read more]

If poinsettia plants are a “must” for your holidays, here’s a note of caution:   A recent study indicated that individuals who are allergic to the latex in rubber may be allergic to poinsettia plants because both are of the same plant family.  Researchers warn that about 40 percent of the approximately 26 million people in the United States and Canada who are allergic to latex could experience a reaction to poinsettias ranging from a skin rash to wheezing, chest... [read more]

Everyone wants to stretch their food dollars, and the grocery store is a great place to do it.  Here are some tips for savvier shopping: Don’t assume those items stacked at the end of the aisles – like sodas and chips – are on sale.  This is a trick to make them seem like they’re marked down.  More often than not, they’re marked at the regular price. Know that you pay for convenience.  Skinless chicken breasts cost more than those packaged... [read more]

1. Hey!  There’s a gift! 2. Well, well, well ... 3. Boy, if I had not recently shot up four sizes that would’ve fit. 4. This is perfect for wearing around the basement. 5. Gosh, I hope this never catches fire!  It is fire season, though.  There are lots of unexplained fires. 6. If the dog buries this, I’ll be furious! 7. I love it – but I fear the jealousy it will inspire. 8. Sadly, tomorrow I... [read more]

The origins of some figures of speech are obvious – “putting the cart before the horse,” for instance.  Others are a little more obscure.  Here are the explanations behind three common expressions: Pulling the wool over their eyes.  In the 17th and 18th centuries, thieves and robbers would yank their victims’ wool wigs down over their eyes so they couldn’t see who was attacking them. Blackmail.  In 16th-century England, mail meant... [read more]

Anyone can be the target of identity theft.  To safeguard your money and your credit rating, take these common-sense precautions: · Access, print and carefully examine your credit report at least once per year. · Never give out personal information via phone or email to people you don’t know. · Do your homework on how online sites like PayPal and eBay work before you use them. · Be skeptical of “business” emails... [read more]

Escalators are everywhere, and it’s easy to take them for granted and possibly get careless when using them.  Every year, thousands of people end up in the emergency room because of escalator accidents, with children and the elderly at the greatest risk for serious injury.  Follow these basic safety tips for ascending and descending without mishaps: · Make sure your shoes are tied.  A dangling shoelace can snag or get trapped in the escalator’s grooves... [read more]

Home renovations need to be planned with care. Here are some strategies for planning a remodeling project that makes financial sense: Decide your primary objective. If resale is your biggest concern, a minor kitchen update may enhance resale opportunities more than adding a home office. Decide how to finance the renovation. Other than cash, there are three basic options: refinancing, home-equity loans and home-improvement loans. If you have little or no equity in your home, lenders are... [read more]

According to a CareerBuilder survey, 54 percent of people who landed new jobs last year found themselves working in new fields. If you’re searching for a job, this may be an opportunity to explore something you’ve always wanted to do, like these people: ¨ A financial advisor became a school teacher. ¨ A school teacher became a restaurant manager. ¨ A restaurant manager turned computer tech. ¨ A computer tech became a veterinary... [read more]

Have you ever been frustrated trying to explain a seemingly obvious idea to someone who just doesn’t get it? That’s been described as the “curse of knowledge”. An experiment asked subjects to tap out the tune of a popular song (like “Happy Birthday”) on a tabletop; others were assigned to listen and identify the song. The “tappers” predicted that those listening would be able to identify their songs 50 percent of the time, but in fact... [read more]

With winter upon us, many of you probably already have your furnace running. If you haven’t turned it on yet, or haven’t done the maintenance yet, here are some quick tips. 1. Turn off the gas and electricity to the furnace. 2. Vacuum the furnace interior everywhere you can reach. 3. Change the air filter. 4. Check the fan belt for wear--glazing, cracking, or fraying. The belt should be taut. Tighten by loosening the attachment bracket and moving the... [read more]

November 1st, 1959 - After being hit in the face with a hockey puck, Jacques Plante, goalie for the Canadiens at the time, created the hockey mask out of fiberglass and resin. November 3rd, 1718 - The birth of John Montague, Fourth Earl of Sandwich, who hit upon pairing bread and meat slices to sustain him through lengthy gambling sessions. November 7th, 1885 – the first transcontinental railroad across Canada, concluded with the driving of the "last spike" in... [read more]

Fall is the perfect time to take care of the little things that can make a big difference for you and your home. Most of the tasks listed below are well with- in the average person’s ability. But even if you choose to have a professional handle them, it’s worth the expense. You’ll save money – and maybe even your life. Get your mind in the gutters. Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts. Button up your overcoat. Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors... [read more]

The next time you get a shot or have to pull off a sticky bandage, try the “cough trick” to reduce the pain. In a recent study, doctors at Ernst Moritz Arndt University in Greifswald, Germany, drew blood from volunteers. When subjects used the cough trick, a single cough at the time of the needle puncture, they felt less pain than when they did not cough. Researchers are confident the cough trick is an effective way to reduce pain during peripheral venipuncture (drawing blood from... [read more]

A young man was helping his elderly mother move into a new apartment building. He was sensitive to the fact that his mother had always been quite active, both in her job and in her volunteer work after retirement. But he was concerned that she’d have trouble taking care of herself. So, as he was unpacking boxes, he casually asked her, “Mom, have you ever considered Meals on Wheels?” The mother sighed sadly. “I have, but you know, I just don’t think I have the... [read more]

Haunted houses are a $300 million a year business, with more than 3,000 throughout North America. Some of the most-visited places are: 1) Whaley House in San Diego, California; 2) Madison’s Haunted Inn in Kincardine, Ottawa; 3) Oppertsauer House in Stony Plain, Edmonton. Alberta; 4) The ghost town of Jerome, Arizona; 5) The town of Fergus, Ontario; 6) The battlefields of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania; 7) The site of the witch hunts, Salem, Massachusetts; These... [read more]

Halloween may be one of the scariest holidays of the year, but people seem to take delight in being scared in every season. What’s the appeal of ghost stories, horror movies, frightening novels, and things that go bump in the night? Experts have a few theories: · We like the adrenaline. Fear has the same adrenaline producing effect as excitement. It feels good. Scary movies, stories, and books are methods of releasing adrenaline in a controlled... [read more]

More and more companies are relying on “the cloud” for their IT operations, according to a survey by Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), which is aiming to become a supplier of processors and chipsets to cloud-computing providers. Cloud computing enables users to access software, store data, and use computer applications through a network instead of a single local computer. The AMD study found that 42 percent of survey participants are now using cloud computing in at least part of... [read more]

The Canadian Automobile Association hopes to help drivers avoid being gouged by towing companies with a new “Towing Bill of Rights,” which should come in handy anytime Ontario drivers need roadside assistance. In association with the Provincial Towing Association of Ontario, the CAA unveiled Wednesday a glove box reference guide for motorists. Nearly half of Ontario drivers still aren’t aware of all new towing industry rules put in place by the provincial government last... [read more]

The first day of school looms large and scary for new pupils – and their parents as well.  Here are some suggestions on how to ease the transition:   Establish a routine in the morning before the school year starts, so your child can get accustomed to dressing and having breakfast without hurrying.   Before classes begin, visit the school with your child so it won’t seem so strange.  Many schools have special orientation programs to familiarize... [read more]

Grandparents Day is September 9, here are some delightful stories from – and about – grandparents:  My young grandson called the other day to wish me Happy Birthday.  He asked how old I was, and I told him “62.”  He was quiet for a moment and then he asked, “Did you start at one?” When my grandson Billy and I entered our vacation cabin, we kept the lights off until we were inside to keep from attracting pesky insects.  Still, a few... [read more]

Botox doesn’t just remove wrinkles and lines from a person’s face; it may also impair one’s ability to read the emotions of other people. A study published in the journal Social Psychological and Personality Science found that people who had received Botox injections were less accurate in identifying the emotions on the faces of people in photographs than others whose faces had been injected with a cosmetic filler. Researchers at USC and Duke University theorize that... [read more]

The Autumnal Equinox occurs on September 22nd, ushering in a new season. The equinoxes (both Autumnal in fall, and Vernal in spring) mark the points in the year when the sun crosses the equator, so that every place on earth experiences an equal amount of daylight and darkness. Equinoxes are also the days when the sun rises in the Northern Hemisphere exactly due east and it sets exactly due west. The equinoxes have been observed and celebrated for thousands of years and have significance for... [read more]

A management consultant was hired by a manufacturer in Britain to help improve its general operating efficiency. At one plant on the outskirts of London, she spent weeks reviewing reports that tracked productivity, absenteeism, machine failure, et cetera, that were kept by the day, week, month and year. The reports were filled out by hand (the plant was small) on photocopied forms. At the top of one of the daily forms, the consultant noticed a small box that was always filled out with the... [read more]

By this time of year, your plants could be looking tired and awful. Although the heat may make working in the garden a daunting prospect, whether you have a few acres or a few potted plants, a little love this month will keep your plants looking nice until the Fall, when the days start getting shorter and the garden slows down. Deadhead: Cutting off the spent blooms on your plants will tell them to make new ones. If you have roses and it’s late in the month, you can give them a... [read more]

When the temperature gets up there and you’re wearing shorts and a tank top, remember: your best friend has a fur coat on. Besides panting, do you know what dogs do to tell you when they’ve had too much fun in the sun? Heavy panting His tongue and mucous membranes are bright red. His saliva is thick and sticky It’s important to act immediately if a dog has any of the above symptoms. First, move your dog out of the sun (or heat) to an area where there is cool... [read more]

Heat got you down?  Is your elevator not going all the way to the top? If you have a few moments, these simple things might help snap you  out of it: · Spritz your favorite scent in your living space. If you save your best fragrance for special occasions, smelling it can take you back to a fun time and put a smile on your face. Why let it sit in the bottle? · Pop a multi-vitamin.  If you have been dragging lately, you might not have been eating... [read more]

You can’t be too careful with your money these days, but no matter how tough things get, there are a few areas where the term “pennywise and pound foolish may come into play.” You’ll save money in the long run by continuing to  allocate your funds to these items: Medical fees. It’s cheaper to see your doctor and dentist regularly so you can take care of problems before they become serious health    issues. These days, more health care... [read more]

If your vacation should have relaxed and recharged you why can going back to work be so hard?  It takes two days to come back up to speed after a two-week vacation, according to researchers. Here are a few ideas to minimize that deer-in-the-headlights feeling when you go back to work: Let others know your plans. Let clients and co-workers know when you’ll be away and give them alternative contacts. You’ll reduce the number of messages waiting for you at the office when... [read more]

A shopkeeper was dismayed when a brand-new business much like his own opened up next door and erected a huge sign that read, “BEST DEALS.” He was horrified when another competitor opened up on his right, and announced its arrival with an even larger sign that read, “LOWEST PRICES.” The shopkeeper panicked, until he got an idea. He put the biggest sign of all over his own shop. It read: “MAIN ENTRANCE.”   [read more]

· When you're sitting on the sand looking at the horizon, it’s about 3 miles (4.8 km) away. · The world’s oceans contain nearly 20 million tons (18.1 mt) of gold. · The High Seas -- areas of the ocean beyond national jurisdiction -- cover almost 50 per cent of the earth's surface. · An average beach pail, roughly a quart, holds about 3.5 million grains of sand. · High waves pull sand out into the ocean;... [read more]

The constant emphasis on youth and being young can sometimes tempt women of a certain age to feel under-appreciated. Well, there's a day to mark on your calendar that celebrates grandmothers who are “thriving, not just surviving.”     [read more]

In the summer everyone wants to have fun in the sun, but you really want to protect your children’s tender skin from sunburns. Follow these sun safety recommen- dations from the American Academy of Pediatrics: For babies under six months: It’s best to avoid sun exposure by making sure your baby is in full shade, like from a dense tree or an umbrella. Even when baby is in the shade, the sun's rays reflect off sand and water, so dress him in lightweight clothes that... [read more]

On average, families move about every five years and we are always looking for repair and service people we can trust. Most of us rely on wise neighbors for referrals to reliable plumbers, painters and auto mechanics. Still, it takes time to develop your own personal relationships with them. Here are some ways that may help give you more confidence in your choices until you and your service people have bonded. Ask around for shops and services before you need them. Don’t put off... [read more]

Thought you knew all there was to know about the true north strong and free? These surprising facts about Canada will have you seeing our beautiful country in a whole new way. Canada’s lowest recorded temperature is as cold as Mars One of the most common facts about Canada is that it can get pretty cold in the winter (anyone who’s ever had to chisel their car out of a block of ice in the morning knows this to be true). The average low for the month of January in Ottawa is... [read more]

To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded. —Ralph Waldo Emerson​ [read more]

Fathers play a special, irreplaceable role in our lives, and Father’s Day is a great time to let them know that. On June 17, skip the tie and tell all the  special, irreplaceable dads in your life what they mean to you from the bottom of your heart. Some suggestions: Write a letter thanking your father/uncle/grandfather/ brother/son for all he’s done and all he means to you.  Read it in front of him and the whole family. You can frame it and even add photos or other... [read more]

Thomas Edison (1847-1931) was possibly the greatest   inventor who ever lived.  He received more than 1,000 patents in his lifetime, many for items we take for granted today: the alkaline battery, the motion picture camera, the phonograph and, of course, the light bulb.  There’s a story that it took  Edison more than 2,000   experiments before he got his light bulb to work.  When a reporter asked him how it felt to fail so many times, Edison said,... [read more]

A high school freshman won first prize at a science fair for his experiment demonstrating people’s gullibility.  He was attempting to show how conditioned we’ve become to alarmists practicing junk science and spreading fear of everything in our environment.  In his project, the student urged people to sign a petition demanding strict control or total elimination of the chemical dihydrogen monoxide for the following good reasons: 1. It is a major component in acid... [read more]

According to numerous interviews with police and fire departments, photo albums are the number one possession that people regret losing in a flood or fire.  The professionals recommend putting photo negatives or CDs in a watertight envelope and placing it in a fireproof box, or storing the material offsite – in a safe deposit box, for example.  If you’re using an online storage system it’s still a good idea to backup all your files on CDs or a flash drive and then... [read more]

Here’s another reason to warn adolescents about the dangers of drinking:  According to a report by the American Medical Association, the brain appears to be  especially susceptible to alcohol damage during a person’s high school and college years.  While the brain physically stops growing when a person reaches the age of five, its cells continue to refine and realign themselves until a person is 20 years old. The late-teen/early adulthood period is recognized as... [read more]

National Police Week—May 13-19 A Cop on the Take First he takes…the oath.  Here’s what else he takes: He takes…it in stride when people call him “pig.” He takes…his low paycheck, realizing he’ll never be rich. He takes…a second job sometimes to make ends meet and support his family. He takes…time to stop and talk to children. He takes…your verbal abuse while giving you a ticket you really... [read more]

A university professor gave his students a pop quiz.  Most of the students were conscientious about their studies and had little difficulty answering the questions – that is, until they reached the last one. The question was, “What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?”  The students looked at each other quizzically, not knowing if it was some kind of joke.  Some knew what she looked like; she was tall and dark-haired, about 50 years... [read more]

Every year a contest was held at the county fair to determine the strongest person in the region.  The contest was simple.  Each contestant was given a lemon to squeeze, and the person who squeezed out the most juice would win. One year the favourite contestant was a local farmer, who milked a herd of cows each day and had enormous, well-muscled hands.  He produced nearly a full glass of juice from his lemon, much more than everyone else. The judges were just about to award... [read more]

Like speeches from the throne, budgets are aspirational documents delivered by the governing party to outline their spending priorities, with hopes of continuing to be the governing party. Given how close today’s Ontario budget is to the June 7 provincial election, a healthy dose of skepticism is warranted.   This budget leaves the impression that the Ontario Liberals are gambling that Ontarians will forgive significant deficits if it means large investments in social spending.... [read more]

As social networking stretches into every corner of our lives, parents are right to be concerned about the information their children may be sharing online – and about what kind of information they should share about their own families.  Here are some guidelines: Pick a strong password.  Don’t use common words or significant dates in your life.  Create a password that’s a mix of capital and lowercase letters, plus numbers, so it can’t be guessed... [read more]

Many of us eat more than we need to.  Often it’s because we think we’re hungry when instead we’re anxious, depressed, bored, or just tempted by the plate of brownies a coworker brought in this morning. Although you shouldn’t wait until you’re faint with hunger to eat, it’s good to pay attention to the signals your body is sending you.  These are the typical symptoms of real hunger: · Growling, gurgling, or rumbling in the... [read more]

If you love having fresh herbs at your fingertips here are a few suggestions on setting up an herb garden you will use and love: · Plant your herb garden as close to the kitchen as you can manage.  Your herb garden can be grown in a series of containers if that helps you locate it where it will be most convenient.  If you have to go to too much trouble to get to and pick the herbs, you won’t use them as much. · If you want to get the most pleasure... [read more]

Cell phones sometimes seem to create as many problems as they solve.  To smooth over the rough spots, CellPhones.org put together this list of cell phone etiquette tips: Lower your voice.  Don’t force everyone around you to listen to your half of the conversation. Avoid personal subjects.  Resist the temptation to overshare where complete strangers can listen to your intimate secrets. Don’t take calls (or text) when talking to someone else.  If you... [read more]

Did you know that April 22 is Earth Day, and has been every year since it was first celebrated in 1970? Earth Day was the creation of Gaylord Nelson who, as a Wisconsin Senator in the late 1960s, said, “Our soil, our water, and our air are becoming more polluted every day.  Our most priceless natural resources – trees, lakes, rivers, wildlife habitats, scenic landscapes – are being destroyed.  How are we going to get the nation to wake up and pay attention to the... [read more]

By now, you probably know all about home staging and how powerful it can be in selling your home faster and for more money. We offer lots of home staging tips on the right things to do, but what about the most common mistakes people make when trying to stage a home for sale? It’s easy to assume there are certain home staging tips you can skip when it comes to your own home. They may seem unnecessary or frivolous, so you decide to overlook some of them. In reality, this can only... [read more]

Are you always running late?  Maybe you’re legitimately busy, but sometimes chronic lateness springs from other factors.  The danger is that being late all the time will give you a reputation for being undependable and/or careless. Take better control of your time by considering these psychological causes for being constantly behind schedule: Adrenalin.  For some people, rushing to every meeting and event provides excitement.  If you’re enjoying the chase... [read more]

A recent study at Ohio State University found that high stress levels slow healing.  Students with small surface wounds needed 40 percent more time to heal during final exams compared to those with similar wounds who weren’t under pressure.  “This is news to keep in mind if you’re heading in for elective surgery,” says Dr. Phillip Marucha.  “Trying to get too much done beforehand could heighten stress and thereby slow recovery.”   [read more]

Bullying can be a serious problem for children.  But often it’s not obvious to their parents, and even when it becomes clear, stopping it isn’t easy.  Here’s what to look for, and what to do about it: What To Look For: · Decline in school performance. · Reluctance to go to school. · Unexplained bruises or torn clothing. · Difficulty sleeping. · Complaints of headaches, stomach aches, or... [read more]

Are you checking your smoke detector at least once every six months, if not more frequently?  Although the average life of a smoke detector can span as long as 10 to 15 years, the devices can go on the blink, and you wouldn’t know it.  About 30 percent of smoke detectors fail after 10 years, according to a recent report, and about 50 percent of them shut down after 15 years.  Though your smoke detectors might emit a sound when you test them, that doesn’t necessarily... [read more]

Spring begins on March 20, and around this time the thoughts of some turn to spring cleaning.  But not everyone, as you’ll see from these quotes: Housework is something you do that nobody notices until you don’t do it.  – Evan Esar Nature abhors a vacuum.  And so do I.  – Anne Gibbons Cleaning your house while your kids are still growing is like shoveling the walk before it stops snowing.  – Phyllis Diller Cleanliness is not... [read more]

Long ago in a faraway village, there was place known as the House of 1,000 Mirrors. A happy little dog learned of this place and decided to visit.  When he arrived, he bounced happily up the stairs to the doorway of the house.  He looked through the doorway with his ears lifted high and his tail wagging as fast as it could.  To his great surprise, he found himself staring at 1,000 other happy little dogs with their tails wagging just as fast as his.  He smiled a great... [read more]

Chances are, someone you know, or love has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. The disease is a progressive brain disease that causes a loss of memory and cognition, and there is no cure. Every person’s symptoms differ, so if you know someone who may have it, get them to a neurologist to be sure. Alzheimer’s disease affects about 5.4 million Americans, about 5.2 million of which are 65 and older. It can be your grandparent, your cousin, your sibling or even... [read more]

Do you ever find your mind wandering when someone is talking to you?  No, you’re not abnormal and you don’t have attention deficit disorder. Most people speak at an average rate of about 120 words per minute, but most people can listen about four times faster. So, your mind fills in the gap by thinking about other things. Be aware of this and try to slow down your listening. Work on staying focused so you can really comprehend what the speaker is saying.   [read more]

♥ Love is like an avalanche where you have to run for your life. John, Age 9 ♥ I think your supposed to get shot with an arrow or something, but the rest of it isn’t supposed to be so painful.  Manuel, Age 8 ♥ On the first date they just tell each other lies, and that usually gets them Interested enough for a second date. Mike, Age 10 ♥ I’m in favor of love as long as it doesn’t happen when dinasaurs is on television. Jill, Age... [read more]

A man found a cocoon of a butterfly. One day a small opening appeared, He sat and watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to force its body through that little hole, then it seemed to stop making any progress at all. It appeared as if it had gotten as far as it could, and it could go no farther. The man decided to help the butterfly. He took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining bit of the cocoon. The butterfly then emerged easily, BUT, it had a   swollen... [read more]

If dogs were our teachers we might learn… When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.  Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride – allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.  When it’s in your best interest, practice obedience.  Let others know when they’ve invaded your territory.  Take naps, and stretch before rising.  Run, romp, and play daily.  Avoid biting when a simple growl will... [read more]