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]

I’m a typical potential homebuyer, but would I buy your home? I am like most homebuyers and have to connect emotionally.…I want to ‘feel’ the “ahhh, I could live here!”. So what will help me connect emotionally? 1. I have to have a great ‘first impression’ when I drive up. I have to like the outside so much that I am dying to see it inside. Peeling paint, tarnished door hardware, garbage buckets, poor landscaping will all tend to make me... [read more]

In 1844, Robert Browning was an unknown poet and playwright when he first read Elizabeth Barrett’s volume of poetry titled Poems. He was 32 years old. Elizabeth was a well-known poet– and invalid. She was 39 years old. Robert was so moved by her poetry that he wrote to her, “ I love your verses with all my heart, dear miss Barrett..” The two of them commenced writing more than 600 letters to each other during the next 20 months. Elizabeth had suffered since the... [read more]

The 211 helpline in Ontario answered more than 325,000 calls last year. One third of those calls were for basic needs like housing, food, financial assistance and help with utility bills. As well, many calls were from seniors and caregivers wanting to discover what practical help from community and social services was available, how to access it, and if financial help exists for life’s challenges. Calling 2-1-1 is one of the best ways to learn about community... [read more]

Miami Dolphins football coach Don Shula tells of being on vacation with his wife and two children in a small town in Maine.  They went together to the local movie theater, and when they walked down the aisle, the 12 people in the theater stood and applauded. As the Shulas took their seats, Don said to his wife, “It’s just amazing.  Sometimes I forget the power of network television and the level of interest in the game today.  These people must get every Dolphin... [read more]

If you, a family member or friend has started planning a wedding, then you know you can spend a lot of time planning that perfect day.  And you can spend a lot on that perfect day:  According to online sites such as www.costofwedding.com and www.weddingbells.ca, the average wedding costs $20,000 (not including rings and a honeymoon), and that amount increases significantly if you’re tying the knot in a major city like Manhattan or Toronto. If you want to keep wedding expenses... [read more]

Setting goals is a great way to nurture your growth.  That’s why it’s important to make New Year’s resolutions for family if you want your family life to change and improve.  Consider including these goals this year: Pare down activities.  Families are busier than ever, so it’s important to make room for consistent togetherness time.  For example, think about cutting back on activities so everyone can eat dinner together most nights. Build... [read more]

People who take care of the chronically ill often are expected to do all and be all for their charges.  But caregivers often feel overwhelmed and disconnected from friends and life outside of taking care of a sick family member or friend.  Here’s how you can lend them some help: Educate yourself.  Find out about the disease or condition the sick person is suffering.  Ask the caregiver for suggestions on articles or books to read.  Your interest helps show your... [read more]

Try this tip for overcoming stress when it threatens to overwhelm you:  Make a list of things you like to do, that you look forward to, and that help you relax.  When you’re feeling stressed, take a look at your list and pick something that you can do right away, even if only for a few minutes.  You’ll feel better, and just knowing you’ve got options should help you maintain your cool.   [read more]

Two men were competing in a tree-cutting championship.  One of the men was very ambitious and hardworking.  The other was not so ambitious or hardworking, but still very good at what he did. While the go-getter was chopping down every tree he could at the fastest pace possible, the other was cutting down trees methodically.  The hard worker toiled through the day.  He never took lunch.  As for his rival, he took an hour-long lunch, then resumed the race. In the... [read more]

I have a list of people All written in a book And every year at Christmas time I go and take a look.   And that is when I realize That those names are all a part Not of the book they’re written in But of my very heart   For each name stands for someone Who has crossed my path some time And in that meeting they’ve become A treasured friend of mine.   And once you’ve met some people The years can not erase The... [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 harder you try to fall asleep, the more elusive dreamland becomes. In an experiment, scientists split 100 college students into two groups.  One group was told to fall asleep as quickly as possible; the other was instructed to go to sleep whenever they could. The “fall asleep quickly” group took longer to drift off than their counterparts.  The scientists theorize that trying to fall asleep creates a sense of frustration that drives sleep away, similar to... [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 with... [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 pain,... [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]

There once was a King who offered a prize to the artist who would paint the best picture of Peace.  Many artists tried.  The King looked at all the pictures, but there were only two he really liked and he had to choose between them. One picture was of a calm lake.  The lake was a perfect mirror, with peaceful, towering mountains all around it.  Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds.  All who saw this picture thought that it was a perfect picture of... [read more]

If you’re complaining to your friend or significant other about an unsatisfactory product or service, stop complaining to them – and put your complaint in writing.  It’s well worth your time:  At best you’ll get an appropriate response from the supplier or service provider and possibly help them correct a problem; at worst, you’ll have downloaded your negative thoughts to paper or email instead of carrying them around.  Here’s how to complain... [read more]

It’s that time of year, and the Red Cross offers these safety tips on furnace maintenance: · Don’t attempt repairs yourself unless you’re a qualified professional. · Have your furnace checked and cleaned regularly by a qualified repairperson. · Make sure all furnace automatic controls and emergency shut-off valves are in working condition. · Have the repairperson check the wall and ceiling near the furnace and... [read more]

1. If I like it, it’s mine. 2. If it’s in my hand, it’s mine. 3. If I can take it from you, it’s mine. 4. If I had it a little while ago, it’s mine. 5. If it’s mine, it must never appear to be yours in any way. 6. If I am doing or building something, all the pieces are mine. 7. If it looks like mine, it is mine. 8. If I saw it first, it’s mine. 9. If you are playing with something and... [read more]

Just because a debt negotiation company calls itself a “nonprofit” is no guarantee that it’s a legitimate organization.  If you’re in debt and seeking the help of a debt negotiation company, the Federal Trade Commission says that you should watch out for the following scams – debt negotiation companies that: · Guarantee they can remove your unsecured debt. · Promise that unsecured debt can be paid off with pennies on the... [read more]

This is a story of a radio conversation that took place a number of years ago between a U.S. naval ship and Canadian maritime contact off the coast of Newfoundland.  While the tale may or may not be true, it truly makes a great point about making assumptions: Americans:  Please divert your course 15 degrees north to avoid a collision. Canadians:  Recommend you divert your course 15 degrees south to avoid collision. Americans:  This is the captain of a U.S. navy... [read more]

When you decide to put your home on the market, it’s important to step into the shoes of potential home buyers and keep them at the forefront of your mind as you prepare your home for sale. In today’s competitive market, it’s not enough to simply list your property as-is. To stand out, sell your home faster, and get top dollar, you need to make your home as appealing as possible. That starts with understanding a buyer’s psychology. Every buyer has their own... [read more]

In any real estate market, prepping your home so that potential buyers see it in its best light can mean that your home sells more quickly and possibly at a better price.  Here are a few simple steps that can yield big dividends: Check the curb appeal – make sure that the front yard and front porch / entranceway is clean and free of any messy looking items such as recycle boxes.     Get it fixed – repairs are important: make sure that bathroom tiles... [read more]

Have you stopped feeling like yourself lately?  Maybe you feel sad, empty and hopeless but don’t know why you can’t shake off the feelings.  Or you’ve been feeling anxious, panicked or distressed by troubling thoughts and behaviors, and it’s affecting your daily life and others around you.  Or you’re experiencing changes in sleep or appetite, decreased energy, difficulty concentrating, and no longer enjoying activities you used to take pleasure... [read more]

If you’re thinking about starting a fitness program, here are some tricks to keep yourself on track: Get an audio book that you think you’ll love.  Only allow yourself to listen to it while you exercise.  That way, if you want to find out what happens next, you’ll get moving. Watch your favorite TV show only while you’re exercising – otherwise it’s off limits. Keep track of your exercise days by putting a gold star on the calendar for... [read more]

Don’t let the misuse of contractions detract from your writing.  Here are some commonly confused possessive pronouns and contractions: Whose:  a possessive pronoun.  Do you know whose book is missing? Who’s:  the contraction of “who is.”  Who’s coming to visit? Your:  a possessive pronoun.  This is your life. You’re:  the contraction of “you are.”  You’re just in time for... [read more]

Halloween is an exciting time of year for kids, and to help ensure they have also have a safe time, here are some Halloween dos and don’ts.   Do plan costumes that are bright and reflective.  Make sure that shoes fit well and costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame. Do consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility. Do remove from the porch and front yard anything a... [read more]

Are you spending money on household cleaners when you may be able to do the job with items you already have at home and/or are less expensive than what you’re currently using? Using just a few of these ideas can help you save money on cleaning products – and be kinder to the environment, as well.  A note of caution:  Before using a homemade cleaning formula, test it in a small, hidden area if possible.  Also, always keep your homemade formulas well-labeled and out... [read more]

Do you have a dream but think you lack the skills to achieve it? Born in 1888 as the youngest of eight children, Berlin’s family emigrated from Russia to New York in 1893.  His father died when Berlin was eight, and as a young boy Berlin sold newspapers on the street to help support his struggling family.  He left home at 14 and began singing in New York saloons for spare change, then went on to work as a singing waiter in Chinatown.  With just two years of school and no... [read more]

Raising confident children means building up their self-esteem, especially when they make mistakes. Here are 5 ideas for minimizing mistakes and maximizing encouragement at those critical moments: Don’t get overly emotional or reactive. By modeling the right reactions to mistakes, you teach your child how to deal with mistakes in an emotionally mature way. Show your child what to do differently next time. Learning what NOT to do is only part of the experience. But many kids... [read more]

The human body is a marvelous machine, but like many machines that have evolved over time, it contains some leftover parts. According to the Mother Nature Network website, these leftover body parts appear to have lost their original uses: Appendix. This tiny pouch in the abdomen near the intestines may have been necessary when early humans survived on a plant-based diet. Today it seems largely superfluous, aside from being an unwanted storage place for bacteria. Wisdom teeth. A leftover... [read more]

Billminder: Keeping up with bill schedules can be hectic. This app helps you stay organized and up to date on when to pay what bills and where to send payments. AroundMe: If you’re relocating to (or visiting) a new area, this app points out the nearest restaurants, grocery stores, banks, and hospitals in an instant, without you having to search for them individually. My Home Scr.APP.book: This app lets you take pictures, write a description, and add bar codes to items in your... [read more]

With little ones off to school again, parents are back to the struggle of finding something quick to put into the lunch box every day. Here are four quick ideas for variety that go beyond the sandwich. (Great for parents’ lunch boxes, too!) l Cold pasta with just about anything: tomatoes, black olives, marinated artichoke hearts, chicken, etc. Add a dash of olive oil to moisten. l Pita pockets with tuna, egg, or chicken salad. Toss in sliced or diced cucumbers and... [read more]

The eyeball is an amazing piece of human architecture. But because of its complexity, it can easily fail. The most common way for the eyeball to fail is for it to lose its elasticity. When that happens, light entering the eyeball is minutely diffracted (spread) throwing off the focus, resulting in near- or farsightedness. The result is a need for glasses to compensate and refocus the light before it hits our eyes. Another way to focus incoming light is to squint, which both reshapes the... [read more]

Physical fitness should start early, so here are a few exercises disguised as play that you can do with children as young as two years. · Ball walk. Find a small bouncy ball, and have your child hold it between his or her knees. Then challenge the child to walk farther and farther without dropping it. · Giant walking. Have your child take the longest step he or she can, then stop for a moment all stretched out. Then have the child stand up straight and take a giant... [read more]

When financial planners are asked about how to save more money, one suggestion that is often repeated is to declare a moratorium on spending. Think of it like fasting. When we fast, we reset our internal food sensor. After a fast, we are more aware of the food we choose, and we tend not to automatically reach for junk food or to overeat. Similarly, when we cut ourselves off from spending, we reset our internal money sensor. It’s simple...but probably not easy. Here’s how to... [read more]

1. Use a foam paint brush to clean dust from inside vents. Use a vacuum at the same time to pick up the dust. 2. Use a toothbrush to lightly scrub rough textured surfaces and get into tight seams. 3. Use a window squeegee and a squirt of water to scrape pet hair from cloth seats. 4. Pick dirt from between buttons and around the shifter by pressing kid's homemade slime into those spaces and pulling out the dirt that sticks to it. To make slime: Mix 1/2 cup... [read more]

It takes a disciplined spirit to endure the monastery on M in Spain. One of the fundamental requirements of this religious order is that the young men must maintain silence. Opportunities to speak are scheduled only once every two years, at which time they are allowed to speak only two words. One young initiate who had completed his first two years of training, was invited by his superior to make his first two-word presentation. "Food terrible," the young man said. Two years... [read more]

People love to read motivational quotes. We love them on t-shirts, on posters, and in tattoos. But why do we love them? Perhaps it’s because, like poetry, a well-formed quote can pack a lot of thought into a handy package, distilling large ideas into simple recipes. Or like a church sermon, quotes remind us of important life lessons that we get too busy to remember. Here are a few popular motivational quotes: · “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to... [read more]

Financial planning experts recommend having an emergency fund in case something unexpected like a layoff or injury interrupts your paycheck. Your safety net should cover at least six months’ worth of living expenses. Here’s how to calculate what you need to save: · Gather your financial records for the past 12 months. Include bank and credit card statements, ATM receipts, and canceled checks. · Create a 12-month grid. Down the left-hand side note all... [read more]

If your home is struggling to catch the eye of a buyer, it could be for an entirely valid reason. Maybe you're stuck in a sluggish market or have the poshest place on the block (always a tough sell). But there's another possibility, too—your home could be sitting on the market because of a rookie selling mistake. All of us can make 'em, even those of us who actually have a few home sales under our belts. The good news? These... [read more]

Summer is coming, and you’ll probably rely on your air conditioning to stay cool. If you don’t want to pay too much during the hottest months of the year, check out this advice: Check your insulation. Unless your home is new, chances are you’re losing cool air through cracks and poorly sealed doors and windows. Contact your utility provider or a contractor for an energy audit to determine where the air is escaping. Place your thermostat in the correct location.... [read more]

You don’t need to break down the walls or strip the cabinets to renew your kitchen. Here are 8 little approaches to sprucing up the kitchen without major remodeling. 1. Choose 3 complimentary colors and update everything you can to match, like paint, towels, rugs, small appliances, canisters, curtains. 2. Change your cabinet and drawer pulls. Buy a size that fits existing holes so you don't need to drill new holes. 3. Add rope lighting under or over your upper... [read more]

Numerous of people around the world suffer from insomnia. It seriously affects the quality of their life and it is hard for treating. They usually use sleep pills which are full with chemicals and sometimes they even have a side effect. That is why here we will show you how to improve your sleep with avoiding several bedtime habits. Try to keep your electronic things away before you go to bed. They will fortify your brain and disturb your sleep. You must avoid... [read more]

You might be surprised what everyday items and situations are bringing your network to a crawl. Here are the top 12 common issues impacting office and home Wi-Fi. 1. Tinted glass. You’d think Wi-Fi signals would sail right through, but they don’t. Tinted glass often has metal additives that can heavily absorb Wi-Fi signals. So if your office is full of wall-to-wall windows or glass conference rooms, it’s going to impact your signal. 2. Mirrors. These are huge Wi-Fi... [read more]

Thirty years ago, people typically started work at a fairly young age (age 20), worked to 65 and then retired. Statistically they lived to age 72, so they had many years to earn and save, and just a few years to spend. Typical retirement age has been 65 for a long time. In developed countries like Canada, the US, and Australia, social retirement benefits only start to kick in at 65. But today, our statistical lifespan in these developed countries has increased to 78 years. Unfortunately,... [read more]

A rich investor was bragging to a famous author at a cocktail party: “You know, I made more money on one investment last month than you’ve made with all your best-sellers. I’ll probably make more money this year than you’ll make in your entire life.” The author replied, “That may be true, but I have one thing you’ll never have.” “What’s that?” asked the investor. “Enough.” [read more]

An old lady had a hearing-aid fitted, hidden underneath her hair. A week later she returned to the doctor for her check-up. "It's wonderful - I can hear everything now," she reported very happily to the doctor. "And is your family pleased, too?" asked the doctor. "Oh I haven't told them yet," said the old lady, "And I've changed my will twice already." [read more]

Numerous studies have shown a positive impact on your health by following a fasting diet. Impacts of fasting include the reduction of chronic disease risk, longevity, and weight loss. Contrary to first impressions that fasting will leave you hungry, most people report that fasting actually takes their food cravings away. Fasting is not a "one-size-fits-all" approach, and success often means trying different models. Here are three approaches to try:   Sleep Fasting. To... [read more]

#7. “Well, how ‘bout that? I’m lost! Looks like we’ll have to stop and ask for directions.” #6. “I noticed that all your friends have a certain hostile attitude. I like that.” #5. “Here’s a credit card and the keys to my new car. Go crazy!!!” #4. “Your Mother and I are going away for the weekend. You might want to consider throwing a party.” #3. “Well, I don’t know what’s wrong with your car.... [read more]

Today, the population of the world is about 7.4 billion. By 2050, the UN predicts it will be 9 billion. What does that mean for the future of housing... and how might that affect you? One thing is for certain: New homes will not be built at nearly the same rate as population growth. We will have to make smarter use of what we have, and rethink the space and resources we need. For instance, consider household size. In the early 1900's, 5-person households were normal. Today, 1-person... [read more]

The Richest Man in Babylon is a book by George Samuel Clason which dispenses financial advice through a collection of parables set in ancient Babylon. Through their experiences in business and managing household finance, the characters in the parables learn simple lessons in financial wisdom. Originally a series of separate informational pamphlets distributed by banks and insurance companies, the pamphlets were bound together and published in book form in 1926. At only 44,640 words... [read more]

These days, most people have heard some form of the idea that “what we see can affect how we think.” But over a century ago, this was a new discovery. According to an article on the Observer website, in the early 1900’s gestalt psychologist Karl Duncker created an experiment known as the “Candle Problem.” Duncker led some test subjects to a table pressed up against a wall. The table held three items: a candle, a book of matches, and a box of tacks. He asked the... [read more]

A boy named Johnny hung out in front of the local grocery store in a small town. The manager noticed that the other boys who hung out in front of the store always teased him, calling him stupid and playing tricks on him. Johnny didn’t seem to mind, and always looked a little surprised. One of their tricks was to offer Johnny his choice between a shiny nickel, worth 5 cents, and a dusty old dime, worth 10 cents. Johnny always took the nickel because it was bigger and shinier. One day... [read more]

For years the concept of a grand room with an open kitchen has been all the rage. As a result, countless walls have been knocked down and it’s rare to find newer houses without open kitchens. But is the tide turning? Are we returning to days when the kitchen was an isolated room where smells were trapped and messes hidden? Increasingly, home builders are hearing requests from customers for a closed-off kitchen, and remodeling companies are being asked to put the walls... [read more]

Many years ago, my mother who lived in Nigeria, became a widow. The life she had imagined for herself as a young girl quickly evaporated. She tried moving on, finding a life with her extended family, but she was always worried, always despondent. When offered the opportunity, soon after I was born, she gave me up for adoption. An international adoption agency placed me with a family in Canada. Some might think my mother was weak; others might call her selfish. Many call her an... [read more]

Once there was a lab technician, named Sam. Sam had forgotten to open a critical valve on a piece of equipment he was using. The pressure built up in the system and caused it to malfunction. The resulting damage cost $250,000 to repair. The next week, Sam’s boss called him in to talk about it. Sam had already cleared his workspace, figuring that he was about to get fired. Sure enough, his boss started grilling him, asking why he didn't do a proper check of the equipment first,... [read more]

Successful people know what they have to do to reach the top. Just as important, they know what not to do if they want to succeed. From the Success magazine website comes this list of activities to avoid on your way up: Going back to failed strategies. You’ll fail from time to time. Just be sure to recognize what you do wrong so you don’t keep repeating it. Pretending to be someone else. If you’re not being true to your personality, people will see it. Strive to make... [read more]

Salads are good for you, and pre-made, bagged salads are convenient, but be careful—even slight damage to greens in those bags can release juices that aid in the spread of salmonella. Most salad greens are exposed to salmonella bacteria as they grow in fields, from sources such as insects, bird droppings, and manure. Although the leaves are presumably cleaned before being packaged, the juices produced by breakage also increase the bacteria’s ability to form biofilms, which helps... [read more]

Most often, a move represents an important step forward for the adults in the family because of a new job, promotion, transfer to a different office, or financial success has allowed them to buy a more comfortable house in a different neighborhood. Moving from one house to another is seldom easy and enjoyable for adults (who chose to move), and can be especially troubling for children (who prefer to stay where they are).  But if parents are mindful of their children’s concerns... [read more]

An elderly woman became a local celebrity in her small town by getting married at the age of 92. The newspaper sent a reporter to interview her. His first question was how she enjoyed being a newlywed in her 90s. “Oh, this isn’t my first husband,” the woman replied. “I’m used to this by now.” “Really? How many times have you been married?” “This is my fourth husband. When I was 22 I married a banker. He died, and then when I was 43... [read more]

Scientists have discovered that dogs communicate far more information about their emotions to each other with their tails than was previously believed. A recent study has shown that dogs tend to move their tails more to the right or the left depending on how happy or sad they feel. This emotional signal can also be recognized by other dogs, affecting how the animals respond to each other. Research, conducted by neuroscientists at the University of Trento, Italy, showed that dogs’... [read more]

Make one or two mistakes in handling your retirement money, and you could be paying a stiff penalty later in your life. The stock market goes up and down, but you’ll survive if you stay clear of these common mistakes: Obsessing about market losses. Focus instead on long-term needs. Catastrophic events and long-term health care needs cause as much damage when you’re caught unaware as does a shaky stock market. Will your nest egg be able to handle long-term care? Forgetting... [read more]

Just as businesses are guided by a vision, your life can also benefit from having a vision. A vision is a description of your idealized lifestyle and outcomes. Vision is often based on living according to your highest values and principles. When honing your life vision, here are things to keep in mind: Your vision shouldn't be about "shoulds." A compelling vision is based on what you want to achieve, not what you (or others) think you should have or should do. A vision... [read more]

A business man was interviewing applicants for a manager position. He devised a test to select the best person for the job. He asked each applicant, "What is two and two?" The first interviewee was a journalist. His answer was "Twenty-two." The second applicant was an engineer. He pulled out a slide rule and showed the answer to be between 3.999 and 4.001. The next person was a lawyer. He stated that in the case of Jenkins v Brown, two and two was proven to be... [read more]

We’ve all heard the rhyme, but you might not know where the rhyme originated. It can be officially traced back to the mid-1500s, although earlier use of the phrase probably existed. The first instance in writing comes from a poem published in 1557, written by a farmer named Thomas Tusser. His poem, compiled in rhyming couplets, was called A Hundred Good Points of Husbandry and contained instructions and observations about farming and country customs in the Tudor period of England. In... [read more]

It has nothing to do with the microwave and everything to do with the volatility of aromas and chemicals in coffee.  Coffee is all about science. The drink has over 1,000 aroma compounds, plus a complex profile of proteins and acids. Several studies point out that the intensity of the 'roasty-sulfury' odor of coffee plays a key role in how it tastes. The odor decreases rapidly after initial brewing as it loses those aromatics to evaporation, resulting in a loss of... [read more]

Age-associated changes in metabolism can affect how our bodies process the food we eat. After age 30, metabolic rate begins to slow. Lean body mass (muscle) decreases and body fat increases. You can slow the rate of decline with proper diet and regular physical activity. However, even with these pre-emptive measures, some metabolic slowing still occurs. The Johns Hopkins Medical Letter suggests the following dietary precautions, for those 50 years or older: Calories. Be sure you're... [read more]

Toronto homes selling for way over asking has become the norm these days as home owners and realtors try to get a handle on just how much they can ask for in a real estate market that's scorching hot.  But you know something really wild is happening when the trend extends to Brampton and Vaughan.  Late last year, the latter city was the focus of much attention when a rather pedestrian home sold for $400K over asking after receiving roughly 50 offers over... [read more]

Here’s an interesting experiment in brain function, sometimes used to test if a person has mental deterioration. Warning: if English is not your native tongue, you may naturally have problems with the exercise. I cdnuolt blveiee that I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd what I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in what oerdr the ltteres in a word are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is that the frsit and last... [read more]

Their hearing! Spiders can’t “hear” exactly, but they can sense and respond to vibrations in the air over relatively long distances. Until recently, scientists believed they were only sensitive to sounds from a few inches away. However, the Sci-News website reports that researchers at Cornell University have found that jumping spiders (Phidippus audax) can pick up low-frequency sounds from up to 10 feet away. The spiders apparently sense vibrations through the hairs on... [read more]

The rings of Saturn have dazzled humans ever since they were spotted by Galileo, but they still contain many unexplained mysteries, such as how old they are. One theory states that they date back approximately 4.6 billion years; another suggests that they’re just 100 million years old. Scientists backing the younger theory contend that the rings should show more evidence of space debris from the Kuiper Belt, which would make them darker than they appear today. Proponents of the older... [read more]

Ever notice that you can feel starving after a long day at work even though you’ve spent it mainly at your desk? Scientists, as reported by The New York Times, say it happens because your brain wants more fuel to keep going—even though you probably haven’t been digging ditches or running marathons all day. The problem is that you’re consuming calories your body doesn’t actually need, because your brain is telling you to. Oddly, the solution to controlling... [read more]

Talent alone won’t help you succeed at work. To get ahead, work on establishing the following work habits: Keep clutter to a minimum. Schedule a few minutes each day to get rid of junk mail and old papers that build up. Set aside 15 minutes once a week to do a thorough sweep of clutter in your workspace. Minimize distractions. If you procrastinate by talking on the phone, set a time limit for each call. Also, learn to tactfully get rid of people who interrupt your work. Schedule... [read more]

Quick—where’s your smartphone right now? A survey from YouGov Omnibus asked that question of millennials and people in other age groups to determine how connected we are to our devices. The survey found that pants pockets are the most common location across all age ranges—58 percent of millennials, 39 percent of those age 35-54, and 44 percent of people 55 and older. But some people literally can’t let go. The survey found that more than 50 percent of millennials say... [read more]

Fabrics that have absorbed a winter’s worth of dirt, body oil, and germs will need a deep cleaning to get them ready for another year of wear. That usually means using a carpet cleaner to shampoo carpets and clean upholstery. When renting a carpet cleaner, practice first in an unobtrusive area to make sure you have the knack of the machine and that the treatment won’t discolor fabrics or cause dyes to run. Move furniture just slightly—not out of the room or against the... [read more]

We’ve heard the term Amber Alerts often in the past few years, referring to children who are missing or taken from their families. But some in the Zoomer Community are advocating for a Silver Alert – an avenue to let the public know when a senior has gone missing, especially in the winter when they may be at higher risk of exposure. Do you think this is a good idea? We want to hear from you let us know at 416-360-0740 Toll free:1-866-740-4740 [read more]

A new real estate forecast for Canada predicts ups and downs ahead in 2017: Vancouver will slump, the GTA will soar.   Real estate in Canada’s largest markets became increasingly unaffordable for many in 2016, and the spectre of a crash loomed. “The price of a home in Canada increased 13.0 per cent year-over-year to $558,153 in the fourth quarter of 2016 – the highest year-over-year national home price increase recorded in over a... [read more]

Confused by green marketing and labels? You're not alone. What, exactly, does green mean? Green in general refers to the adoption of environmental management practices and products intended to minimize the damaging impact on the environment from resource depletion and pollution. Green does not refer to healthy living, like doing yoga. Green refers to how you get to the yoga studio (ie. in your gas guzzler or your electric car... assuming your electric car was manufactured and... [read more]

A corporation brought in a tough new CEO to shake things up. Touring the facilities on his first day, the new CEO spotted a young man leaning against a wall while other employees were working hard around him. He marched up to the man. “You! How much do you make in a week?” Confused and alarmed, the young man stammered, “About $300.” “Here.” The new CEO pulled out his wallet and thrust $300 in cash at the man. “Go home, and don’t come... [read more]

We've all heard that eating a good breakfast is important in the morning. Here are a few other aspects of a morning routine that can enhance your day, too: Have a happy thought. When you first wake up, even before you get up, think a happy thought. Think about what you're grateful for, or what you're looking forward to about the day. Ignore creeping doubts for now. Take deep breaths. The oxygen will fire up your neurons and enhance your mood. Stretching, yoga, or brief... [read more]

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. You may also find that you can... [read more]

Stroke is a devastating experience in which blood is cut off from a part of the brain. It can have many contributing factors. One of them, physicians now say, is stress. According to the journal Stroke, researchers looked at medical records of more than 6,000 men and women who participated in a 16-year study. As part of the study, participants’ anxiety levels were measured. Over the course of time, 416 people suffered at least one stroke. The researchers determined that the risk of... [read more]

We sometimes think creativity is for young people. Children are endlessly imaginative, but the elderly are set in their ways. After all, we think, “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” right? Consider this list of creative accomplishments by people who may have seemed to be past their prime: Goethe. The famous German poet finished part two of his masterpiece Faust shortly before his death in 1832, when he was 83. Arthur Rubenstein. This concert pianist performed at... [read more]

Millions of retirees are launching a second career in their 60s, 70s and even 80s. A whopping 74 percent of workers plan to get a new job after they retire, according to the annual retirement expectations survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute. Regardless of age or need, it's a tricky time to change careers. Even so, there are plenty of intriguing job sectors for retirees who want to put their hard-won expertise to work or try something completely different. Migrate your... [read more]

One of the easiest ways to improve your life might be simply resetting your alarm clock. Here are some of the benefits that early risers seem to have over night owls. A 2008 Texas University study showed that college students who identified themselves as "morning people" earned a full GPA point higher than those who called themselves "night owls." A Harvard biologist discovered that early risers are more proactive, and more likely to agree with the phrase "I... [read more]

We’re all plagued with fears about many things, but money can be a source of persistent and all-consuming anxiety. Financial expert Suze Orman offers this advice for analyzing your fears about money: First, grab a pen and a piece of paper and write your thoughts down. Then read them out loud to yourself. Does your fear make sense to you? Is it connected to some past experience that you had, possibly in your childhood? Once you’ve made connections to your past and how it affects... [read more]

We’re all plagued with fears about many things, but money can be a source of persistent and all-consuming anxiety. Financial expert Suze Orman offers this advice for analyzing your fears about money: First, grab a pen and a piece of paper and write your thoughts down. Then read them out loud to yourself. Does your fear make sense to you? Is it connected to some past experience that you had, possibly in your childhood? Once you’ve made connections to your past and how it affects... [read more]