tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74050293454198507482024-03-06T04:16:04.384-05:00Musings From MuskokaFormer Realtor from Muskoka Ontario Canada blogs about everything from office ethics to encounters with long lost friends! Gain insight from one sales rep's point of view as she posts her stand on everything from soup to nuts!muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.comBlogger183125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-89238826160579180202014-06-29T08:25:00.000-04:002014-06-29T08:25:27.595-04:00Being a “Yes” man...<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Anyone who’s in the public eye knows the probability of being misjudged
for a simple slip of the tongue or expressing an unpopular opinion. Having
strength of character and being ethical are essentials when we throw our hat
into the political arena or volunteer to serve the public.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In small towns especially, newcomers learn a hard lesson if they
innocently comment about Mr. or Mrs. Anyone to a colleague or attendee at a
public function. Familial relationships are complicated and close; gossip
spreads like wildfire, so zipped lips will keep you out of hot water. At the
boardroom table, where confidentiality is presumed, don’t count on it. There
may be someone who wants to make themselves feel important – so inevitably a juicy
fact or private detail is leaked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">At this particular time of year, the Classifieds section of local
newspapers are peppered with calls for volunteers to join the Board of
Directors for various groups who require governance as part of their Charter
mandate. Stepping forward is not a trivial decision—there are legalities and
liabilities to be clearly understood.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Being “sworn in” as a Director is not trivial. The work at hand will
require commitment, homework is required to establish a clear understanding of
the issues on the table at the meeting, and the courage to make your voice
heard when the naiveté of others clouds clear thinking. At risk of appearing
contrary either in discussion or when a vote is called by a show of hands,<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a> stand tall and take pride in not being a “yes” man.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-44864374009754610762014-06-18T19:55:00.001-04:002014-06-18T19:55:27.956-04:00Same time next year….<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Last Sunday I was reading both in the newspaper and online, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>the gushes of remembrance about Father’s Day. Pictures were viewed
and faded memories renewed, a time of fond reminiscences for many. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It’s been said that a woman should wisely observe how their lover’s
father treats his wife – supposedly an insight into probability of their own
experience ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Sometimes a long-suffering wife tries hard to keep the atmosphere at
home smoothed over and on an even keel. Little girls, since grown up, should ideally
be able to recall happy times when daddy dandled her on his knee or ruffled her
curls.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">My own father clearly loved his three children. We each had different
relationships of course and are lucky to have wryly amusing thoughts and
reminders of him in our adult lives. I have to think hard about the number of
years since my father died; it feels distant. Some days I miss being able to
bounce around an idea or ask for his opinion—he was always both decisive and
direct in his reply.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Our Dads are the hero figure we all want to look up to and revere. When
little boys grow to manhood and often fatherhood, they strive for greatness
too. Acknowledgement is intrinsic, affection and respect are reciprocal, and
acceptance should be heartfelt, not perfunctory. Rifts and estrangements are
numerous; if your Dad is alive and you know how to contact him, it’s not too
late. Reach out and let him know, with kindness, that you thought of him on
Father’s Day. Patching up relationships is a hard decision, but you’ll be happy
with yourself if you at least take that first step. Next year you too may only
have a memory. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-24142130980203781902014-06-08T09:14:00.000-04:002014-06-08T09:14:05.300-04:00Marking an "X"...<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">The hoopla and exhortations of
provincial election candidates and their platforms will draw to a close on June
14<sup>th</sup>. There is no cause celebre that catches our eye though—too many
people don’t think it’s worthwhile to cast their ballot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Recognize the possibility that
your vote can be a deciding factor! If the results in your polls demand a
recount it could be just one or two ballots that effect a game changing result.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Young women whose name is on the
Voter’s List for the first time may not realize how essential it is to make
your opinion count. A century has not passed since women in Canada were given
the right to vote – now it’s both a right and a privilege. Don’t scoff it off
or swagger that the results don’t affect you – fulfill your responsibility as
an adult and be proud of it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Advance polling stations are
closed at this time – and the polling clerks have seen a good turnout. Men and
women who’ve already seen it all still make it a priority to respond. I watched
yesterday as an elderly and frail man inched up the stairs and was carefully
escorted to present his Notice and show identification. He then was accompanied
by his wife to assist in marking his choice, eyesight obviously not quite
adequate and his hand a bit unsteady.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Take time from your busy schedule
to make your vote count by marking your X.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-48524424433713217942014-05-25T20:07:00.000-04:002014-05-25T20:07:00.229-04:00Your Opinion Please...<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We’ve all heard the expression “when the cat’s away the mice will play”.
What should a neighbour do when Mom’s out of town and the mice are partying?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Noise level on Night 1 wasn’t intolerable. Too many cars were parked
for a small property, and more young men arriving on foot. Golf clubs and beer,
one boy on his hands and knees while his chum encourages the driver to “back
up, fast” as his hand was under the wheel – either reaching for a fallen object
or supporting himself from collapsing. Boy regains footing, car leaves</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Night 2 was rowdier – even someone skateboarding <i>up</i> the hill. Only one car in
and out. Girls in the window. A cab came at around 2:00 a.m. and some wrangling
to get everyone out of the house. The tipsy skateboarder careened into the
night, downhill all the way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A broken planter, and draperies askew, underage guzzling.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a> I never called out or snitched, what would you do?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I’d love your opinion please!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-43881289202469877402014-04-20T19:23:00.001-04:002014-04-20T19:23:45.309-04:00We Already Know…<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I had a telephone call recently, early in the evening, from someone I
had spoken with earlier that day. Readily recognizable by Call Display first,
and voice of course, the hairs on my neck bristled. Quelled panic, the flat
edges of concern, and concise enunciation…Moments later I was out the door and
on my way to help the caller in need.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It’s amazing how our involuntary reflexes sure to the fore, examples of
which are a person’s amazing strength when another may be pinned under a vehicle
or other weight. An adrenalin rush that’s inexplicable. Good Samaritan efforts
by passersby when it’s clear immediate help is needed. The fight-or-flight
response of reflexes contributes to “being calm in a crisis, then letting go
after it’s ended” – a good cry, trembling and sometimes nausea or
lightheadedness.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenbS1C_Ip9aPBoy4McrP0DgT8sbSgZfLnIbkaY_z3rDyFjnNRWmaqgEIsPgAGC-k7FZuiPlv3DDO-8KjbAQHCWCTs1JPfBmUGbjteItnBiPXpVA67gmizDnLpLbRGJwH8Y9chUP42i7w/s1600/Alert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenbS1C_Ip9aPBoy4McrP0DgT8sbSgZfLnIbkaY_z3rDyFjnNRWmaqgEIsPgAGC-k7FZuiPlv3DDO-8KjbAQHCWCTs1JPfBmUGbjteItnBiPXpVA67gmizDnLpLbRGJwH8Y9chUP42i7w/s1600/Alert.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Several years ago while vacationing I was aboard a catamaran when the
captain alerted to fellow mariners in distress. A personal watercraft had
capsized and all that was visible was the snout bobbing above the surface.
Clinging desperately to it were the driver and passenger, one of whom could not
swim and was paralysed with fear. Two crewmen from our vessel dove into the
water and swam to the rescue – literally prying his hands off the nosecone.
Once aboard they were all rewarded with a tot of rum, hard-earned, and the
sobbing man shivered despite the blanket thrown around his shoulders on a
tropical day!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">When we’re abed and in a deep sleep, roused by the ringing of the
telephone in the still of the night, our reflexes bound us upright and on
instant alert. Unless it is mistakenly a wrongly-dialled number intuition
acutely messages to our conscious and now wide-awake self what We Already Know…<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-78736056317068832672014-04-08T06:36:00.000-04:002014-04-08T06:36:02.976-04:00No Growling or Whimpering…<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Every employee, no matter where on the planet, ranks as a minion the
hands of those who supervise ineptly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"> My first job, at a large
company, included nearly 100 other willing and capable computer input clerks
who stoically drudged daily under the eagle eye of a relentless supervisor. We
would cringe if she approached and apprehensive of both her bark and bite; hers
was a fearsome presence!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Quality control was and is the intention, and rightly so; however,
bully boy tactics are still prevalent. In customer service industries, the
front desk receptionist is the first introduction to the company. Dress codes
may be included in the policies and procedures manuals, sometimes necessarily
enforced on the disrespectful or thoughtless. Most front line workers recognize
the importance of both deportment and pleasantries and are an asset to their
employer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Regardless of the role people represent, everyone has goals they want
to eventually achieve. Persistent good performance and excellent behaviour
sometimes earns a salary increase and/or new opportunity to step up the ladder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Lip service paid to a wannabe is sometimes a foil by more senior staff
to patronize their ambition, without intention of ever enabling that person to move
forward in their aspirations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It’s a sad state of affairs when someone’s sunny smile and goodwill to
their employer is dashed in the blink of an eye. Collusion to favour someone
less worthy sometimes may eventually contribute to the downfall of the bully
whose own thought was self-aggrandizement…hence the proverbial “Wait till the
real boss finds out”!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I think one of the reasons that the T-V series Undercover Boss is so
appealing is that the real people who count can identify and reward the
underdog who is true to the company without growling or whimpering.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-78301241870676869562014-03-30T10:30:00.001-04:002014-03-30T10:30:11.754-04:00Getting Prepped….<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%;">
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">With spring in the offing and snow
visibly dissipating, the soft breezes of inspiration give us a sense of
optimism for the real estate rush long overdue. In cottage country areas where
roads have been impassable and, in Muskoka, there was a recorded snowfall of
20-feet+/-; REALTORS® sense a pent-up demand for cottage ownership.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Custom builders often have waterfront
cottages already open for viewing – staffed by a host or hostess. There will be
a selection of pamphlets, colour brochures and maps to pore over – it’s the
stuff of dreams! Don’t be shy about
enabling a relationship, if you wish to receive newsletters or e-mails it will
add to your foundation-building storehouse of knowledge which is the base for
decision making.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A couple who have just stopped in to
the luxury cottage where we’re open for business was thrilled that their
anticipation of a friendly and knowledgeable welcome was fulfilled. A noisy
blue jay, glittering snow and sun on the flowing water enhanced the pleasure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The annual Cottage Life Show in
Toronto is this weekend. There’s info and ideas aplenty there, check it
out! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Whether
you’re a Buyer, a prospective Seller, a REALTOR® or a builder; this time of
year is when everyone’s getting prepped.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-673391813944957742014-03-09T20:02:00.001-04:002014-03-09T20:02:26.807-04:00Survivormen…<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Every family who has a son or
daughter in post-secondary education knows that the weekend before holiday time
always is reserved for the trek to school, home for the break, and back again.
Sometimes the “can’t wait to see them” feeling is tempered by week’s end when
it’s “hurry up, we have to get going” in a push to regain your own space!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Students who study at a
campus far from home often feel isolated from family and friends. Using Skype™
or face time technology is helpful – though sometimes wistful for all when it’s
time to sign off. The family car is packed tight with treats and more than the
basic necessities when the drive is To School, but sometimes the Coming Home
trip is a tight fit as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I know a Dad who makes a
nearly ten hour trek several times a year into what must feel like a different
world altogether. From skidding slushy city driving to twelve-foot snow banks,
barely two lanes and those dicey at best. The daughter, on campus, shares a
house with three other girls – each of whom has a pet, or two. “Dad’s ark” as
he calls it rides light on the trip north, but is laden heavily for the trip
south.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGf2zcM5cNYrsFy4ARvcyUi34hNGtUkpKgtOBKbou_tAnxM0QCaiIAP4lkpE6GI2bxHdgwnBE6KjQLx3E4hM__jNp4KaWuaES0mJhmxl1y-KSM3-WzdA66g3HLrouXhQxbh_l2_vGnVXw/s1600/moving.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGf2zcM5cNYrsFy4ARvcyUi34hNGtUkpKgtOBKbou_tAnxM0QCaiIAP4lkpE6GI2bxHdgwnBE6KjQLx3E4hM__jNp4KaWuaES0mJhmxl1y-KSM3-WzdA66g3HLrouXhQxbh_l2_vGnVXw/s1600/moving.png" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Amid the luggage, foodstuffs
for the trip, and probably some laundry are two cats in a crate, a goldfish
named Marley and a hamster with plenty of kilometers under his paws!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">If the weather holds and the
roads are passable and the trip uneventful, this Dad will make the drive North
beginning Friday after work and then back to the city on Saturday, leaving
before Noon to hit home before midnight. These are the unsung heroes of all
students whose destination is home for the holidays – true Survivor men!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-91659525466669822982014-02-12T06:24:00.001-05:002014-02-12T06:24:47.943-05:00On the Calendar….<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg12uPSodHFwzD0IKBR0Co608h6H2Xy3eUoYhDZ7r4OJtOzA3MHsZHf1HZEY4fhe3uQh-61-zhkZhpd628gvNTB6NeEgShF29Bt0RI4I2CKN7qK_FUMadug9GYaNyqD689_eKBPhParfnw/s1600/valentines.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg12uPSodHFwzD0IKBR0Co608h6H2Xy3eUoYhDZ7r4OJtOzA3MHsZHf1HZEY4fhe3uQh-61-zhkZhpd628gvNTB6NeEgShF29Bt0RI4I2CKN7qK_FUMadug9GYaNyqD689_eKBPhParfnw/s1600/valentines.PNG" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Calendars for the coming year
are available in the last quarter of the year, as well as mobile phone apps and
online access. Business people often enter certain important dates in their
e-mail program so they “pop up” as a reminder. Others - so as not to forget,
make it a point to sit down with their notes book and hand print birth dates,
anniversaries, vacation times, etc. onto the new calendar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Boxed sets of birthday or
all-occasion cards are popular – I’ve heard that a ritual early in January is
to sign, address and stamp cards for the entire year so it’s just a matter of
popping the envelope in the mail!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Personal occasions, such as
one’s birthday, are more important to some than to others. One family in my own
circle of relatives has never celebrated birthdays, anniversaries or dates such
as Valentines, Easter, Thanksgiving, etc... It’s a practice they’re used to so
nobody gets bent out of shape on their birthday, for example, when there’s no
card or cake.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">If your Mom, Dad or partner
doesn’t acknowledge a specific date – a first inclination is to feel
disappointed, and maybe a titch vexed! The first time it happened to me it took
a whole day to realize that my Dad forgetting my birthday was “just one of
those things”. Last year my Mother forgot my anniversary – and again, not a big
deal. As she blithely said later, “it’s only important to the couple”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It feels special though when
there’s a card on the tree at Christmas and other occasions! With Valentine’s
Day and all its hype fast-approaching, hold onto the outburst of hurt that
likely fills your throat – maybe there’s a reason. Consider all the
possibilities before the Big Pout – and don’t indulge in pay-back. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Couples who have weathered
storms over a long time together have confidence that their commitment is still
strong. With the pace of life and that too-long list of Things to Do, it’s easy
to forget an occasion, unless there are Reminders posted everywhere! Frothy
cards and maybe flowers are truly a treat, especially when unexpected! It’s
what’s in our heart that’s more significant than what’s on the calendar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-48063805144829998002014-02-09T09:20:00.000-05:002014-02-09T09:20:25.352-05:00Lost ...but Found!<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">More than forty years ago I
had decided to settle in Toronto, where my mother and sister were already
living. Six months of gallivanting with ‘nary a care had led me to Calgary,
Vancouver and points north – but I returned east in October to revisit my home
city of Montreal, job seeking. The political climate was poor and nobody could
get into any office building without an appointment, so I straggled back to
Toronto and started pounding the pavement.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg4YvE3033qsHJ-k08hLYwqCgf530Ahf1nF8DykNQvZq2ZEb4_wmFMdmW3OB5iE24flO0sfJt168yxoqg9hblomoB_kyZtKbEz112iUYYRP_v3PGOLWg7dX45iCdYqILvKL8yR6FwoB3Y/s1600/bopeep.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; padding: 1px;"></a><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Three girls in particular
were great pals – each of us in the secretarial pool of a major insurance
company. One was married already, and two of us single. Eventually we met who
we thought was the knight on a white steed – and the dye was cast. The married friend
was my Matron of Honour at a small ceremony, her husband the unofficial
photographer. As time unfolded, they became parents; and I was asked to be
godmother to their son.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg4YvE3033qsHJ-k08hLYwqCgf530Ahf1nF8DykNQvZq2ZEb4_wmFMdmW3OB5iE24flO0sfJt168yxoqg9hblomoB_kyZtKbEz112iUYYRP_v3PGOLWg7dX45iCdYqILvKL8yR6FwoB3Y/s1600/bopeep.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; padding: 1px;"></a><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Circumstances led us in
different directions, and we lost touch eventually. The significance of being
someone’s godmother was not lost on me though, and I always wondered if they
had returned to England. The trail was cold – and I tried for a long time surfing
internet sites to discover their whereabouts.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAk8xUQhVxp5uJW-g8kzuyoSH3zFxqMci7fReDaFIUGnEpkwCuxsoswIoBTA1P_hOdklNZjiwZbcYjpNcvkKuMX3-J8DzMcNNSYvhqwU-u-WsdpDfXkaQx2vGE9tu2Gg6MqXLP1n8ptU/s1600/bopeep.png" imageanchor="1" style="float: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAk8xUQhVxp5uJW-g8kzuyoSH3zFxqMci7fReDaFIUGnEpkwCuxsoswIoBTA1P_hOdklNZjiwZbcYjpNcvkKuMX3-J8DzMcNNSYvhqwU-u-WsdpDfXkaQx2vGE9tu2Gg6MqXLP1n8ptU/s1600/bopeep.png" height="320" width="213" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">More recently, I had been
entering the husband’s name on all of the social media sites, with no luck. A
lot of water likely under the bridge for them and me; and my hopes waned.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Last evening, when browsing;
bingo! Previously not discovered – a face leapt out at me – not really as I had
remembered him, but there was very likely the husband! I nearly quavered – but
zipped off a one-liner message which said “Do you have a son named “so-and-so”?
Today a reply –“yes”, and with a couple of back and forth messages, we’re going
to reconnect!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">This may not seem particularly
unbelievable – but there’s more – all of us are living in the same
municipality… and this week they will be no longer Lost… but Found!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-89613644701913299232014-02-04T20:14:00.001-05:002014-02-04T20:14:56.318-05:00Performance Reviews…<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I recently watched the 2003
movie entitled Something’s Gotta Give, which starred Jack Nicholson, Diane
Keaton, and Canadian actor Keanu Reeves. It was a perfect filler for an evening
when nothing in the TV lineup was appealing!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">When observing mixed groups
in social scenes a lot of surreptitious eyeballing goes on when others’ actions
are observed. Public behaviours that are too sensational have proved to be the
downfall of many an unwitting employee when the boss either sees or hears of
incident. Green-eyed antagonists vying for either a beauty or a beast can flash
daggers one to the other! Observant neighbours form gossipy opinions which
target anyone who’s created too much attention – do they merit “In” or “Out” at
the PTA table or Sunday group? Business competitors sometimes dig for dirt too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Playing the game by the
rules, keeping one’s head up and sidestepping controversy are well thought out
actions. In this age electronic communications when personal privacy may be
readily compromised, whatever you post, sext or otherwise share is a public
performance review. Travel sites have been popular for a long time – vacation
planners access the public reviews and are influenced by what they read!
Dissing the doctor as your appointment wasn’t quite on schedule isn’t a smart
way to maintain cordiality – if in need don’t knead! Stiletto rants in print, on radio or TV and
abbreviated comments have avid public followers – proverbial darts or laurels
that measure someone’s merit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KsFre-HE180CuX4kHoXcErL-KMsSF0fztzFm76BzOdDsNG9e4vpTBIkp2VsMs4Zt2qk9oF_f7RxRSXSfvWVJYyfRjQc3ILq_RgeaECX9wLLsBgcMy6Ah8GUA7izS7RsuveM42l9XwCI/s1600/scorn.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KsFre-HE180CuX4kHoXcErL-KMsSF0fztzFm76BzOdDsNG9e4vpTBIkp2VsMs4Zt2qk9oF_f7RxRSXSfvWVJYyfRjQc3ILq_RgeaECX9wLLsBgcMy6Ah8GUA7izS7RsuveM42l9XwCI/s1600/scorn.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Families keep a close eye on
the actions of siblings, their respective partners, parents and anyone else who
comes into view – sizing up their observations and assessing incidents and
failure to comply behaviours! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In the movie, Keanu Reeves’
perceptiveness as the intuitive doctor was rewarding. Wherever we may be,
there’s likely a discerning someone who’s putting two and two together to
culminate in just one of our many personal performance reviews.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-19925842515590834782014-01-16T19:53:00.000-05:002014-01-16T19:53:02.283-05:00Grinding Spices….<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">As a young woman and since, I
have always been a keen cook. One Christmas, more than 30 years ago, I was
suffering from a too-thin wallet, and decided that my only option for gifting
was an assortment of pickles, relishes and chutney that had been put down in
the summer season.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The recipients were truly
delighted, and as everyone knows, home-crafted anythings are dear to everyone’s
heart!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkStJf62TafzFGciDUtqGQ5fN2Kv8H6aROiP7-4QQ1811OfPZXliWNDHnstSR7ny2VSMlnkiMPIcOYI5j-YOrqbkiPY0U8mcJtMJEM4V32r6ff2sOjDzodGdkv_JrKO-evZ7lOV04E_N4/s1600/spices.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkStJf62TafzFGciDUtqGQ5fN2Kv8H6aROiP7-4QQ1811OfPZXliWNDHnstSR7ny2VSMlnkiMPIcOYI5j-YOrqbkiPY0U8mcJtMJEM4V32r6ff2sOjDzodGdkv_JrKO-evZ7lOV04E_N4/s1600/spices.JPG" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Cooking classes for children
were begun in 1978 and continued until 1985. Students and parents alike were
excited with the mastery of how-to and menu planning. A stint hostessing an <i>International </i>class for adults evolved
from in-depth study of countries, their cultures and their foods. Sampler
baskets of spices and varying spice combinations were offered at boutique
stores – with requests for more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">For anyone who has used it, a
mortar and pestle garners personal satisfaction and a sense of calm when rough
is rendered smooth. At this particular juncture in my life, I am rediscovering
the pleasures of preparing meals at home and rekindling my imagination. In this
winter of 2013/2014, there are more grey skies and bluster than sun and
sparkle, so yummy aromas pervading the house evoke both anticipation and,
almost oppositely, calm, contentment, and a sense of stability.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">As I take stock of staples
and how to tweak treats, I am not only doing physical preparation of food – my
mind is also nurturing and defining career opportunities which will be perfect recipes to both produce income and
offer people skills and customer care that are often essential ingredients in
business development. Inadvertent failure to include them leaves tasters with a
sense that “there’s something missing but I’m not sure what”. Everyone’s
personal and profession occupation requires well-formulated combinations when
grinding spices.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-35009120608956746972014-01-09T19:54:00.000-05:002014-01-09T19:54:01.645-05:00Looking Back…..<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I recently read an “advice
column” response to comments from a woman who had been widowed, committed to a
relationship within a few months thereafter, and was heartbroken and “couldn’t
stop crying” when the new partner ended their twosome. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Many men and women sometimes
feel “unsuccessful” or “incomplete” if they aren’t half of what’s perceived as
a whole entity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">When one looks at one’s own
reflection in the mirror, do we recognize ourselves as the egg white or the egg
yolk half of a partnership; or more affirmatively, as our own whole egg? Whether it be marriage vows or an unofficial
pledge, when one person commits to being the partner in a relationship, it’s a
given that some compromise is an implicit presumption. So do we lose part of
our identity as well?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The various life stages we
grow through are, ideally, an ever-becoming process of the real person,
blossoming into their best. Some people seem to always go with the flow, we
can’t see evolvement; others are super-strivers to cultivate their personal and
professional potential. On occasion, we feel at odds, but back-pedaling isn’t
an option so we feel stuck.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The hubbub of the holiday
season behind, and now in a new year where every page is still blank, most
people intend to write their own book. Intentions are as real as pens and
pencils – sometime there’s a block of short-sightedness that holds us back from
setting down that first word!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Indecision and lack of
clarity reflects in our face – others can see that something’s amiss. If our
life’s journey includes wading through a swamp and we are mired down, think of
it as a Temporary Assignment we’re obliged to complete.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">That shell we grow is in self-defense,
protecting inner thoughts and outward actions. “This too shall pass”, and the
day will come when the face you see in the mirror is the real you looking back.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0gjnKP0FByW9gWwLfHf-dV1o3x710iQb4pqBARNn9kB87MaR455ZjIqIcgSjm8BCp10JoN0Mxpo_mIMIgV_OXU6RzzenmvLVX4kJAsJhy5rdImTG-WW9-UcqT9EXm7jsd603SUEZEt0/s1600/mirror.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0gjnKP0FByW9gWwLfHf-dV1o3x710iQb4pqBARNn9kB87MaR455ZjIqIcgSjm8BCp10JoN0Mxpo_mIMIgV_OXU6RzzenmvLVX4kJAsJhy5rdImTG-WW9-UcqT9EXm7jsd603SUEZEt0/s1600/mirror.png" height="320" width="261" /></a></div>
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muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-5626569139555225472013-12-29T20:52:00.001-05:002013-12-29T20:52:47.859-05:00New Years Revolutions…<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiPSujBJZIw_2E1jFuottREHcymRVSt391kZgpftcuCmCNaAoXrQGhyphenhyphenZFAFPlv84yUb6J1dk-v_ZkAdsemtavI0nfyYabScV5ojeDe2zmVGmG6amVWOKjwdjaOnSZuOj31uXKL4rWzkLU/s1600/hope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiPSujBJZIw_2E1jFuottREHcymRVSt391kZgpftcuCmCNaAoXrQGhyphenhyphenZFAFPlv84yUb6J1dk-v_ZkAdsemtavI0nfyYabScV5ojeDe2zmVGmG6amVWOKjwdjaOnSZuOj31uXKL4rWzkLU/s1600/hope.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The tradition of promising
oneself to turn things around or “make better” in some way or other in the New
Year has a success rate of accomplishment that’s not thrilling. I’ve read that
the two most frequent topics are dieting and quitting smoking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Professionally and
personally, history repeats itself when we set goals that are not realistic –
thereby setting ourselves up for a fall. So this year, instead of either
shrugging it all off or embracing intention, I’m setting my sights on
achievable tasks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In the December 29, 2013
Toronto Star™ section identified as Insight & Books, an article entitled
Moving On struck a chord with me. The five stories offered “five perspectives
on saying goodbye”. Everyone every day is moving on from some place or
situation to elsewhere; at sleep time we say “goodbye today” and hopefully
reawaken with clarity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Having survived an unexpected
career change and then an employment fizzle within the past 6 months, I came
into the Christmas Season feeling quavery. Even my proverbial sense of optimism
wasn’t sunny – in fact, I felt absolutely humbuggy! Quieting myself to seek and
ask for answers seemed inconclusive – then “whammo”!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Saying “goodbye” to the old
and embracing the new is my one and only New Years Revolution.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-29882386284452203342013-12-21T09:32:00.000-05:002013-12-21T09:32:12.209-05:00Keeping in Touch…<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Greetings by e-mail are the
trend now, “snail mail” is seemingly phasing out; and Canada Post™ has just
announced that much of its door-to-door delivery services will be discontinued.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Season’s Greetings in the
Inbox symbolize that the recipient is held close in thought, if not proximity.
Newsletters used to be trendy too, but too often the enthusiasm outweighed the
news, or vice versa. I used to write an annual update in rhyme, but my rhyme isn’t
poetic of late; so the exchange of communication is quiet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">This Christmas season I
received a truly beautiful animated e-card, no message, just a signature. It made
me wonder immediately “what’s up?” – These folks are upbeat and outward bound!
My efforts to compose an e-mail felt stilted, nothing to say from this end
either that they aren’t aware of. I’ve heard it said that when we look at a
person we may see, behind that bright smile, eyes that are sad… <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In this Yuletide season when
we want to reach out and connect, we should make time and do it. Across the
miles or across town, we may never know how much it means to the recipient when
the Inbox dings or telephone rings – just you ‘n me keeping in touch!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0MC-VrORijWtkrVO1fymSb1OOT2C-QEmrtEbvy7WO-EWCd7K7Nm2vQgTiN1GhM_DiU-7SZU0XJ_Z2O6C0Az1PHjykK5j8ZhKqs1fHjn0bVhCk0vIO53USDSiatmL1EZ5gteLTAG90p-s/s1600/bells.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0MC-VrORijWtkrVO1fymSb1OOT2C-QEmrtEbvy7WO-EWCd7K7Nm2vQgTiN1GhM_DiU-7SZU0XJ_Z2O6C0Az1PHjykK5j8ZhKqs1fHjn0bVhCk0vIO53USDSiatmL1EZ5gteLTAG90p-s/s1600/bells.png" /></a></div>
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muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-34149560127656695532013-12-07T10:34:00.001-05:002013-12-07T10:34:54.417-05:00The First Noel….<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnVaDI298mbzG6ckEWm2PgZ_onu5P-pxBSewSy-Y7yK2nHwW0Ula8YCWwp9ixiQ_CD2hYHs3fZwf3PHhVxZHZUh2_GGTeytEJNyox0ck8IUfcIGMEVzo_6KyZ5vSXsr3ZoWnnan9Wm78/s1600/DSCF0787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnVaDI298mbzG6ckEWm2PgZ_onu5P-pxBSewSy-Y7yK2nHwW0Ula8YCWwp9ixiQ_CD2hYHs3fZwf3PHhVxZHZUh2_GGTeytEJNyox0ck8IUfcIGMEVzo_6KyZ5vSXsr3ZoWnnan9Wm78/s320/DSCF0787.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Respectfully alluding to a historical event that is celebrated
worldwide, I am thinking now of every parent celebrating “Baby’s First
Christmas”. Commemorative baubles for the tree are treasured adornments that
are carefully stored and unwrapped with emotion every year. Sometimes a history
of tree-trimming evolves as children become able to take part, homespun or
school-crafted decorations are often included – special contributions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">When I was growing up, Christmas Eve tree-trimming was begun by my Dad,
and it was sometimes a frustrating event when he couldn’t arrange the lights
symmetrically the first time, or didn’t test them first – with disappointing
results. Eventually my brother, sister and I were allowed to start hanging
decorations. It was important that each strand of tinsel be hung individually –
sometimes a tedious method for youngsters who were agog with lights and
promise! I sometimes wonder if my Dad actually re-arranged everything after we
were asleep…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In more recent years I have embraced the habit of decorating my own
tree – each year with a different colour theme. It’s fun and can be really
economical if decorations and specially-selected accessories are acquired
slowly and during Boxing week clear outs when Santa has gone back to the North
Pole! If you’re entertaining family or friends for New Years, simply remove the
tree-topper and replace it with a glittered top hat from the Dollar-store®
outlet or Dollarama®. Three, five or seven tooting horns can be laid across the
branches too – it’s really festive!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Whether this year is your first, one of many or a specially-inspired
yuletide, celebrate with enthusiasm and sparkle. Everyone can find fulfillment,
however small it may feel, in marking this special Season as if it is your
First Noel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-51302691786966862902013-11-30T10:01:00.001-05:002013-11-30T10:01:49.933-05:00Looking Good….<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9EGIt_wSmoho5ZHNYnV0hGVIoTN0mquiZXH3dm1g7cM2c5RRj1wmKUOhHAhtkiaMJg7tX12-_v3tVa74wIYkaL0qRJRAe1ptxpSvA_adkVV7DCEY_OEhuitK7BHwuiDkA06asgabORA4/s1600/springy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9EGIt_wSmoho5ZHNYnV0hGVIoTN0mquiZXH3dm1g7cM2c5RRj1wmKUOhHAhtkiaMJg7tX12-_v3tVa74wIYkaL0qRJRAe1ptxpSvA_adkVV7DCEY_OEhuitK7BHwuiDkA06asgabORA4/s1600/springy.png" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A lady co-worker the other day was dreamily humming the soundtrack
theme from the movie Sleepless in Seattle.
It’s a favourite movie of many, possibly because the romantic aspects
satisfy either a craving or nostalgic whiff of once was.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It’s unsettling when our paths cross unexpectedly with someone we
haven’t seen for a long while – perhaps a classmate or other adult
acquaintance. Our impression may be that the person appears burdened and
consequently may have lost or gained weight, lost their “zip”, and their
persona is dimmed. Conversely, the person may have a really positive aura that
exudes energy, enthusiasm and overall zest. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Anyone who arises after a fretful night of tossing/turning or otherwise
affected sleep knows how difficult it is to put on our game face and step out
with a spring in our step. Interrupted sleep or no sleep whatsoever is totally
debilitating. Overwrought Moms and Dads may be functioning on auto-pilot;
caregivers may be light sleepers with their ear cocked for a rustle of
bedclothes or other indicators. Financial, marital, bereavement or work-related
stressors are other recognizable impacts. If you Google™ the <i>Holmes-Rafe Life Stressors Inventory</i> you
can score yourself - which might be either unnerving or comforting!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It’s essential, however difficult, that we each keep at top of mind the
inevitability that “this too shall pass”. Some people appear to be able to
carry their rucksack of troubles with grace and aplomb, perhaps setting an
admirable example to observers. Nobody is truly alone in their toil and if we
can offload even a few factors affecting us the result will be lighter,
brighter and fresher.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Looking good!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-62388664341886672812013-11-24T19:20:00.001-05:002013-11-24T19:20:28.854-05:00Bleating With Good Intentions …..<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2lggORZwLyHxxZmvThP8dIWW6UfGH_mQhwEeTCAHVfk4EpUg1or7UBiNW-RBw76PUGBpy01kiuNedLFmq9H-1Ou7Ms7WgU3ieYW0bY8xCQb6tzRG9z4aitCzvQuBLF0vc7-Oem1NCb5I/s1600/goat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2lggORZwLyHxxZmvThP8dIWW6UfGH_mQhwEeTCAHVfk4EpUg1or7UBiNW-RBw76PUGBpy01kiuNedLFmq9H-1Ou7Ms7WgU3ieYW0bY8xCQb6tzRG9z4aitCzvQuBLF0vc7-Oem1NCb5I/s1600/goat.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The hustle-bustle of pre-Christmas commercialism sometimes has a
negative influence on how readily we throw ourselves into the spirit of the
season. Malls are crowded, cash registers are ringing and parking lots are bumper-to-bumper
with tradition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">While we all know that gifts from the heart are treasured more than
something selected in haste or obligation, receiving is not always as
fulfilling as giving. Some families are financially well-set; others are
challenged more, and as the middle class sinks into oblivion the struggles are
more emphatic. Every dollar counts and there isn’t always an abundance of
leisure time to hand-craft a gift or devote time and resources to baking up
sweet treats or bottling jam, jelly or relishes!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Last year it was a surprise to see envelopes resting on the boughs
rather than a clutter of wrapped and beribboned boxes under the Christmas tree
where we visited on Boxing Day. Teens and tweens were already engrossed in
hand-held technologies – and the adults were hoping for a quieter time than the
morning previous. Several sparkly gifts were carried in from the trunk of the
car – and the exchange of parcels was begun.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The host presented his envelopes – and inside was a sincere token of
his loving heart. Certificates revealed that either a goat, some chickens,
fresh water, mosquito netting or a start-up kit for school had been donated on
our behalf to worthy communities where they would be received with delight.
Regardless of where we live or what circumstances we enjoy, there is always
someone else who has less and actually needs more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">This year, if you feel so inclined and your pocketbook allows, gift a
couple of chickens or something more robust.
Consider the versatility and significance of a valuable goat; don’t just
bleat with good intentions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-65784157660677755252013-11-14T20:42:00.002-05:002013-11-14T20:42:44.538-05:00A Steady Hand On The Tiller...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-HBva1JTr6SMpQIMe4RwSvN1dI24yrEPJposaNHi1o07b5NZCs2dZwX4OsYm3vKpItWVKrdf_m5eOs6aTPZVyAXJp68dLZx-aLXUP7_-ZNCEdNJJQJgCsisl2nt87knFoM7wu2sRY8I/s1600/tiller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tiller" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-HBva1JTr6SMpQIMe4RwSvN1dI24yrEPJposaNHi1o07b5NZCs2dZwX4OsYm3vKpItWVKrdf_m5eOs6aTPZVyAXJp68dLZx-aLXUP7_-ZNCEdNJJQJgCsisl2nt87knFoM7wu2sRY8I/s1600/tiller.jpg" title="" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Global, national, provincial
and local news concerning unemployment statistics is more than troubling. While
politicians address pressing issues, far from the home site, people of all ages
are struggling to find work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Once acquired, it takes
commitment, including attention to detail, to keep that precious source of
income. However unfulfilling the paycheque may feel, at least there is one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In my own municipality I know
of several middle-aged people who are working two part-time jobs and taking
casual shifts with a third employer just to make ends meet. Their lifestyle is
anything but frivolous. Capable able-bodied people are grateful if
consideration is given to them during the interview process and fretfulness
grows as days pass without even a callback.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">My own mother has commented
with satisfaction that both my sister, brother and I all have an excellent work
ethic. She led by example and no slackers among us. The stress impact of
starting new employment rates high in studies and graphs – a normally contented
tummy may knot with apprehension and tension headaches love to linger when we
need every cell to focus on the task at hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In order to make their work an
ongoing achievement, everyone requires a steady hand on the tiller.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-83542728593343629892013-11-07T07:17:00.001-05:002013-11-07T07:17:47.510-05:00Betwixt and Between…<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Life’s road presents a myriad
of choices, from babyhood to past our “best before” date! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">We learn early which choices
in behavior are good or not. Rewards such as sweet candy are more tangible to a
toddler though than a hug or cheer!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Classroom etiquette is
clearly identifiable – mischief is often held back till recess when hopefully
perpetrators escape the eagle eye of the yard monitor. Sometimes the school bus
driver has uproar and upheaval to manage – even so far as adolescents mooning,
or worse, in the back seat!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Teenage years are fraught
with inconsistencies as we try to find our way – Mom and Dad often shake their
heads in consternation as we stumble into adulthood.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">And so it goes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Post-secondary education
represented a ticket to success – just “plan your work and work your plan”!
Sounded like a piece of cake, except there are usually too many slices to
consider; and it’s regrettable if we make the wrong choice. Anguish and despair
from funding sources such as Mom and Dad or Grandma/Grandpa or other family
members. Remorsefulness and feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem on the
part of the errant student, and the weightiness of debt when loans need to be
repaid. Unemployment is rampant, adding to the burden.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">As we journey along, the
pathway can feel uneven and narrow. We can stumble and even lose our way from
time to time. The old analogy of light at the end of the tunnel can be viewed
two ways – is it a train barreling toward us or actually the end of our
troubles in sight?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Peering too hard into the
future with intensity can produce eyestrain!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">This past weekend I struggled
with a list of Pros and Cons to a reach decision that was hanging heavily.
Sighs of fretfulness – betwixt and between…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The sun shone though on
Thanksgiving Day - and “I can see clearly now – the rain is gone”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcO6aI1tXuwa14IyH0GPlqqY0fUlDu08eZQCP15k0vuSSUzuxTTzosYGBc3ub_ryrPTYT6-7c8MXmB0KrkHN7Xr6WJpmWo7rL-ZNniRISy4NNbPAr13HpGTPv8xQzJsge-Ss3FibbtTg/s1600/anticipation.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcO6aI1tXuwa14IyH0GPlqqY0fUlDu08eZQCP15k0vuSSUzuxTTzosYGBc3ub_ryrPTYT6-7c8MXmB0KrkHN7Xr6WJpmWo7rL-ZNniRISy4NNbPAr13HpGTPv8xQzJsge-Ss3FibbtTg/s1600/anticipation.png" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-89208341129555439172013-10-19T08:33:00.001-04:002013-10-19T08:33:53.103-04:00Peasant under Glass...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-zlQSisoNoGbYqLx5gPUT8lyr0rmmxD1Il8OZtJOy4Pry0zFoZNFlCTRuagwkVuq2qjDWhmi67auCg83VXMLuYW32zhlsqplQXaZ7KvhiiKvumMREZrSq_dMFq4iLT6E9lGY8bWmwOM/s1600/pheasant.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-zlQSisoNoGbYqLx5gPUT8lyr0rmmxD1Il8OZtJOy4Pry0zFoZNFlCTRuagwkVuq2qjDWhmi67auCg83VXMLuYW32zhlsqplQXaZ7KvhiiKvumMREZrSq_dMFq4iLT6E9lGY8bWmwOM/s1600/pheasant.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A well-to-do couple from out
of town want to make their annual visit – meet for lunch and catch up on
whatever news before winter sets foot. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The gentleman is retired from
a long and profitable career in the manufacturing sector; his lovely wife has
been a perfect social complement over the years and enhanced his role and
popularity. Both have a delightful sense of humour , are impeccable
host/hostess at home, and offer pleasant company. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">While they don’t particularly
flaunt their fat wallet, their lifestyle is by design - more robust and no
scrimping. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">When it comes to dining out,
the invitation is for presence only, not as a guest. A favourite destination
here is a dining room overlooking the water where the food is good and atmosphere
relaxed. Next week’s get together will be predictably enjoyable – not highbrow
or haughty. One of the ladies attending is a favoured guest – the rest of us
fill in with easy conversation and occupy seats; ordering simple fare respectful
of our budget constraints - and picking up our own cheque. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">The favoured guest is
cognizant of the pecuniary concerns; we don’t however want to peep audibly,
preferring to remain discreet. The food is excellent and prices reasonable. There
are several menu selections to choose from – one of which is “Peasant Under
Glass”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-58306547791630394092013-10-12T10:43:00.000-04:002013-10-12T10:43:59.460-04:00It don’t mean a thing……<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">As clothing styles change and
change again from season to season, I’ve heard it said that if we keep a
specific item long enough it will eventually come back into fashion! There may
be slight differences in buttons, pocket flaps, cuffs or not – but essentially
the similarities are close.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Business attire included
“dress down” days on Fridays, when employees could appear for work dressed more
casually but still professional. Some observers feel that standards of dress
went downhill from there, and indeed Premier Kathleen Wynne here in Ontario
recently gave notice that anyone working at the provinces capitol buildings
(Queen’s Park) would have to dress with respect to the institution and all it
represents. In short, no tees/tanks/short shorts, plunging necklines or
high-thigh length skirts, flip flops, sneakers, toe rings or the like!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">In my profession as a
REALTOR® it is seldom that I wear anything but dress pants to the office. When
one least expects it there may be occasion to walk an acreage, climb a fence,
ladder or tree, or peak into an attic space – and a skirt or dress simply will
not do!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Discerning whether clothing
items are appropriate for the occasion is sometimes a struggle – the essential
little black dress can always be toned down or glitzed up for example. Maybe a
tailored jacket over a sleeveless dress or loafers that can be left under the
desk and heels instead offer a smooth segue to dinner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">It’s a treat to </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5IwQe7m74L7JUY165GoVGzfe6cxQ_h2RHE8y_ERpqWg7qwO51cEM8fzV38x5g5BhLMtRS0tLAGg6T8kRqj3_rOcEs_kMXpxuOA14iyS0Mqx7rYnLU6CiprjeniPtv7nX_cn-4Rg2LUDc/s1600/music.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5IwQe7m74L7JUY165GoVGzfe6cxQ_h2RHE8y_ERpqWg7qwO51cEM8fzV38x5g5BhLMtRS0tLAGg6T8kRqj3_rOcEs_kMXpxuOA14iyS0Mqx7rYnLU6CiprjeniPtv7nX_cn-4Rg2LUDc/s1600/music.PNG" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">walk
feminine, talk feminine, smile and be gay feminine (as the lyrics go from
Disney’s 1963 film entitled Summer Magic).
Pencil skirts, sleek boots, printed hosiery or tights can suit many
occasions, but for me “it don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing”!<o:p></o:p></span>muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-13224648831230350192013-10-03T07:53:00.002-04:002013-10-03T07:53:55.805-04:00Stilted/Measured/Careful…<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8TJMma2OTsx0EwBz25XeePECixNC0C7CG6XocovoNRRIBl29PzKcrc1y5XcJig5XmmErTW0CP2PPyiL75L0EHpqLOuev8VenvPBZj0-2vjGVSedkpu4c6Gy6wFgN0jJ5ryCZM4EyLVM/s1600/stilted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8TJMma2OTsx0EwBz25XeePECixNC0C7CG6XocovoNRRIBl29PzKcrc1y5XcJig5XmmErTW0CP2PPyiL75L0EHpqLOuev8VenvPBZj0-2vjGVSedkpu4c6Gy6wFgN0jJ5ryCZM4EyLVM/s1600/stilted.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Funny how similar traits often are passed down through
family generations. Mannerisms, appearance and mode of dress are often easily
identifiable – college students returning home for a visit after a long absence
may hear over and over again that “you look just like your Dad/Mom” or “I knew
it was you before I even laid eyes on you, same voice as your Pa’s”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Sisters may have close ties
and mutual traits and interests, or little in common.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Likewise of course with
brothers. In my family, Mother and both daughters have a shared interest in
footwear; as does one niece! My sister is a fashionista with a stunning flair
for putting “the look” together. She sometimes chides me not to be too <i>matchy matchy</i> with handbag and shoes, or
accessories. And only one animal print at a time! We can never have too many
pairs of shoes and nothing more tantalizing than eyeing up stunning footwear in
the store window at a big mall!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Nearly two years ago, when
visiting Toronto at the same time the The International Film Festival was in
full swing, we zealously pounded the pavement and included a visit to the Bata
Shoe Museum. With tired tootsies we had several purchases to gloat over!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">With appropriate occasions
few and far between for one luscious pair of life-threatening ohh-lah-lah
sandals, I had an opportunity to wear them just this past week. Unbelievably
coincidental, a doctor friend was exiting behind me, and he was appalled! “Good
god woman, what have you got on your feet? You’ll break your *!XO!* leg wearing
those ridiculous things.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">I was too busy concentrating
on the uneven sidewalk to reply. My focus was, to be succinct, Stilted/Measured
and Careful steps. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-17734637552865086882013-09-19T20:18:00.002-04:002013-09-19T20:18:56.786-04:00Fall Fair Fever…<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTYfpFZG6bNcWjvOa74t2KOSBLnBi4YVsImIjD7k1cFyiC7q5ZrYz0fHGvMY4WkmtsGbuUH7zjuuZhuXhzcOoERCkebVVQjEaQcQECHHgdLBLgfpRb3mxyfNlsrAKMvOvsiqeHBmQLYc/s1600/Fallfairfever.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fall fair in Muskoka ON" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTYfpFZG6bNcWjvOa74t2KOSBLnBi4YVsImIjD7k1cFyiC7q5ZrYz0fHGvMY4WkmtsGbuUH7zjuuZhuXhzcOoERCkebVVQjEaQcQECHHgdLBLgfpRb3mxyfNlsrAKMvOvsiqeHBmQLYc/s1600/Fallfairfever.JPG" title="" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FALL FAIR FEVER!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">This weekend is the much
anticipated Agricultural event. Small towns, villages and hamlets all schedule
specific dates to showcase home crafts, farm animals and fowl, heavy-horse and
tractor pulls and toe-tapping old tyme music!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Concessions food booths offer
a myriad of yummy delights – from cotton candy to burgers, fries and pogo
sticks. Outerwear can range from layers one can peel off or rain wear that can
be held in reserve and donned as needed. Kiddies line up with glee as they wait
their turn for the rides – it’s heart warming to see families for whom this is
truly a special occasion and a treat. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Horse trailers and cattle
trucks lurch across uneven fields to find designated parking areas; crates of
squawking/squalling or screeching pets are bumped along and settled in covered
display barns and sheds for everyone to observe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Would be “hayseeds” stumble
along in long-toed boots and tight jeans, trying to look nonchalant while
reaching for a tissue to catch an allergic sneeze! If you’ve ever been to the
Royal Winter Fair barns in Toronto you’ll remember that the air can actually be
thick with dust, dander and farm smells.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">This year’s events represent
the 146<sup>th</sup> annual Fall Fair and Horse Show. Agricultural Society
Members toil tirelessly from the day-after until opening day the following
year. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Wherever you may live, do try
and get out to visit a Fall Fair near you. The experiences for youngsters and
parents alike are enjoyable, educational and inspirational.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Catch the Fall Fair Fever!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7405029345419850748.post-40334738284539834812013-09-14T17:13:00.001-04:002013-09-14T17:13:53.783-04:00Jack-in-the-Box…<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnEME_H681FuVTI19rdxI7PBA47F7hb7hjPMsb7CAz-oQ04qRXax5GuH2yMOR2SpKYXeMoM79TDgJQZ9z9v3yHmkucRjfBbPSDaKnFMGcNYIgdzkP7nHilnzzKlvEghZjMPeLEi_kf-vk/s1600/jack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnEME_H681FuVTI19rdxI7PBA47F7hb7hjPMsb7CAz-oQ04qRXax5GuH2yMOR2SpKYXeMoM79TDgJQZ9z9v3yHmkucRjfBbPSDaKnFMGcNYIgdzkP7nHilnzzKlvEghZjMPeLEi_kf-vk/s1600/jack.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Recalling this childhood toy
is likely an easy task for many – exclamations of glee and feigned surprise by
Mom and Dad when Baby squealed! When too many toys cluttered the space a
reminder would come that it’s time to put your things away in the box!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Similarly, on Christmas
mornings if the flurry of ripping and tearing at wrapped parcels resulted in
too much excitement or bewilderment, wise Moms or Dads would reduce the
quantity to nurture quality appreciation. Too many objects to focus on can feel
overwhelming, regardless of age.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">A recent discussion with a
dear friend on this subject of too many choices was enlightening, to say the
least. In today’s too-busy world where the pace and expectations sometimes
exceed reason, it’s inevitable that people feel frenzied, overly anxious, and
sometimes incompetent. Too many objects to focus on at the same time with
little opportunity to intently examine just one at a time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">She explained, when I asked
“How do you manage to do everything you do?” the simple theory of “compartmentalizing”.
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Juggling too many balls in
the air at the same time for too long leads to an inevitable error in judgement.
Oops! To create ease and increase simplicity, imagine individual little boxes –
each one labelled with a different subject, or task. When one is addressed, and
dealt with, simply close the box – and move on to others which need attention. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Circumstances may direct that
more than one box be open at the same time – multi-tasking of sorts – but the
key is to close each box when you’re done with the contents and never have all
the boxes open at one time!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">My web designer sister today
reiterated that process – a well-known process in writing programs.
Compartmentalize different aspects of the whole into their own “box” – then
presto, everything runs smoothly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.0pt;">By implementing the theory,
it should become easier to cope – inevitably some people will have more boxes
than another! I’m striving now for that exclamation of glee, and maybe a
delighted squeal, when a lid is removed and out jumps Jack-in-the-Box!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
muskokarondeauhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16839531977956017873noreply@blogger.com0