December downtime ....

Hello fellow bloggers, FB friends/family, Twitter peeps, and Google + followers...

I've decided this month to take some downtime, to re group.  It's always such a busy holiday season, and a time, where family and loved ones, matter most.

I'll be re vamping my blog in the new year, and hopefully steering it into a direction I would like to write about.

So for now, I'm taking some well warranted and deserved downtime. 

Take care, and remember the reason for the reason.
Enjoy your families, friends and relatives and more.
A season for giving.

We'll chat in the new year. 

Wishing you a blessed and very Merry Christmas and a Happy Healthy New year 2019 !

Love you all, Miss "B".

Tough, hard, and bad times... how do you see yourself through it ?

Everyone in his/her lifetime, encounters many bumps along the road.  Whether they are hard times, full of struggles, bad times, maybe due to health issues whatever the case maybe, we are known to react differently.

No one should be condoned for handling things the way they do.  Some are born, and raised, with different mentalities.  Coming from a long line of Italian background, we tend to worry a lot as most European families do.  They say though, and it is a good catchy phrase, that "always look at your glass as half full, and not half empty".

Depending on whats happening in our lives, be it a nasty divorce, health issues resulting in terminal illness, or financial hardships, the only thing I can say, is, don't hesitate to seek help.  By that I don't just mean, employee assisted programs, or professional aid, but also having some enduring friends and family around you.  

Now when dealing with health issues, well, that seems to be a whole other scenario.  We always wish and pray, we could take the illness or sickness away, like Cancer for instance.  Or lend support to someone who's recovering from a life threatening heart attack, or surgery.  We can lend support by being there for them.  Sending positive vibes, and making them feel wanted and needed.  It's difficult to turn off the old "worry switch"... It is not a light bulb, or something that is easily removed.

With family and friends with cancer or any terminal illness, there are so many ways, we can be there for them.  Going with them or driving them to treatments.  Taking walks with them, on good days, or holding their hands through the hard days.  Helping seniors with dementia and Alzheimer's be there for them, and make them feel wanted.  Doing activities that they may enjoy, taking them for a road trip.  We have the means, it's finding the time for most of us.  Putting our own needs aside, to help others, is the greatest sacrifice.

When we are going through dark times, the only thing we see, is this dark cloud per say, or dark tunnel, as some have described it.  There is never the right thing to say, and some find it difficult to discuss things.  Give people space.  Make them know they are wanted, and you are there for them, but be diligent in knowing, that sometimes, like grief, people just need space.  Others like people around them all the time, it helps the "feel good" hormones, travel through our bodies.

Many of us have gone through either a nasty divorce, or a custody battle for our children, and can only see the dark side.  Be supportive, but sometimes with sensitive issues, of love, family and children, the ultimate choice is there's and we can only lend support.  That might mean keeping our opinions to ourselves.  In the grand scheme of things, it usually, through grueling times, works itself out.  

Friends and family, no matter what we are going through, even a dark cloud, has some silver lining through it to help guide us.  It's easier said then done, and people should not pass judgement on others, if they're struggling to see your side of it, or the positive one.  You can only be there, and say your peace, and work from there.  Seeing a family member, or friend going through this tough time can be heart wrenching, but all and all, you know you're there for them.  

Financial struggles, are always difficult times also.  We tend to have too much pride, to ever ask for help or aid.  But the little things you do , go along way.  Even if it's buying an item of clothing, or groceries, or a dinner outing.  Many of us have too much pride to ever ask family and/or friends to help out in these times of need.  It's always the smallest gestures, and the ones you do without notice, that matter the most.  Again, it's a time that you don't ever pass judgement.  You make sure that someone is going to be okay, and re assure them.  Out of work, help them hook up somewhere, make a referral, anything.  

There are so many resources now a day out there.  Support groups, for families dealing with alcoholics, drug addictions, divorces, and children services etc.  But again, some friends and family may not want to seek that venue, so you can only suggest, and after that just be there.  

It's all in how we handle the news also.  Sometimes it takes weeks, months, or longer, to see the light or positive side of say, a terminal diagnosis.  There is no time frame, and by God, don't tell someone, to get over it.  Yes we all go through tough times, but people matter to others in different ways.  It might be a friend to you, but is a sibling, or parent to another.  I've been told many a times, to push the cloud away, but at time your going through this, its difficult.  I have always sought refuge in prayer, but others may not.  And that's fine too.  We all again, as in many of my blogs, suggested, we all have our religions and beliefs.  You don't have to be of any background to want to pray.  

The smallest gesture of kindness, and reassurance, sometimes , is all one needs.  Many times, you need hard love.  And that can be difficult, but in reality, everyone means well, but is hoping you seek quick resolution, and so they tend to be tougher on you.  With matters of the heart, it's always a difficult choice.  Whether it's a custody battle, divorce, bad breakup or separation (adultery/affair), matters of the heart, play a whole different ball game, in the healing process.  

Like anything, we go through stages.  The initial shock of losing a loved one, a terminal diagnosis, news of an affair, there is the stages we go through.  There is even stages in the healing process.  And again, please remember, there is no time line, so do what you know best, and be there for everyone.  It comes back to you in ten folds.  Don't let Karma get the best of you.  Be there always, and help a family member in need or a friend, in anyway you know best.

Happy Thanksgiving to our American family and friends today.  May you all enjoy must love, happiness, good health, and many blessings.  It's the start of a busy time of year for us all.
Help one another, be there for one another, and remember, it's better to give of yourself, then to receive.

Love you all, Miss "B"

Please feel free to share my Blog on your news feeds :) xo 

Busiest holiday, and religious season upon us....

Well now that Remembrance/Veteran's Day has passed, many of us are now focusing on the upcoming Christmas season.

Many of us start as early as the summer, and some at this point, even have it all done. And so the hustle and bustle of the season begins.  With the holidays fast approaching, already you hear people saying how stressful Christmas is, and all the work involved.  Planning meals, the gift shopping, and the visiting etc.

But does it have to be?  Or have we just become a society, that has blown every holiday into more than it should be.  As we get older, we find, that we don't enjoy it as much, and it truly shouldn't be that way.

Life was so much simpler and our demands were not so far fetched.  Yes things were less expensive, but whatever happened to "it's the thought that counts".  Whether our families are big or small, there needs to be some compromise.  Simplify our lives.  There is no need for the holiday season, to be a stressful time. 

As a child growing up in an Italian family, our main focus was always the meal prep.  Even that over the years, family members made sure that we shared that deed.  No reason, why a mother has to spend weeks before the holidays preparing all this food, for one meal.  Eventually, after much convincing, we ended up doing more of a "potlock" meal.  Brought our favourite dishes, or made whatever, she didn't need to make.

Now there's the mall thing.  I for one, try to avoid them like the plague.  People change.  You venture to  the shopping malls at the Christmas season, and people just get ugly.  If it's not a fight for a close parking spot.  It's the line ups, and the battle for the sale items, that makes us crazy.

You need to figure out , how to make it easier for yourself, and a happier time of year.  Many of us, of Christianity, or religious backgrounds, like to keep the church and faith during this time, to make it about what the season to us, truly is about.

Whether it's about Santa Claus, or the birth of Christ, you need to stay focused on simplifying life, and making it about you and your loved ones and family/friends.  Taking the time for visiting a loved one who's been hospitalized.  Instead of buying gifts for members of your family, who truly don't need anything, adopt a family, and sponsor them for the Christmas season.  Find out from any organization, what you can do to make a difference.

Yes!  A season for giving and receiving, but honestly, if we have been blessed with all we need, then focus on giving.  Make it about baking cookies with a friend or someone you know who can't, or doesn't have the means.  Visit a nursing home or LTC, just to make a seniors life happier. 

Make a change, be the one to open our next generations eyes, and let them know Christmas is every day of the year of our lives, and that, when the actual holiday arrives, make it about someone in need.

Take care, and enjoy the upcoming weeks, and don't let them stress you from now.

Love you all , Miss "B".

Remembrance Day .... 100 years and a day to be recognized...

Although this blog will be short and sweet, it is something to be said and reminded to you all.

Remembering our fallen soldiers and all that served from the Wars fought.  This year, a 100 year of recognition to all that served.  The men and women that gave up their lives for us to have all this freedom we share in this great land.

Canada has had it's trials and tribulations, but I still believe in my heart, that is the greatest country on this planet.  For many many reasons.  

But for present generations, and the ones to come, I feel that it should be instilled more.  It is a part of our history that should not be lost.  I feel like just wearing a poppy, is not enough.  At a school level, I know the teachers keep this alive.  The importance of informing these students, that the freedom they have, the country they live in, was fought and protected by a special group of people.  Men and women that were every day folks, like ourselves, that served our country and ultimately the greatest of all sacrifices, their lives.  That left the comforts of their homes, and families, without knowing they would ever come home.

The Wars they fought, brought us to where we are today.  A country of much freedom and prosperity.  The struggles will always be there.  But we are built on a Nation of people from all ends of the earth, with immigrants that fled their countries to be in ours, and of course, our Indigenous Native.

There will always be racism, unfortunately, a battle we try and fight, day to day.  Respect and values we teach our children, to love one another as Canadians, no matter what heritage or background we are. 

Canada has been blessed to have much culture in it's society.  It has opened it's immigration gates, many times over the past 100 years.  Many of us, had grandparents, and great grandparents, or aunts and uncles etc., that fought in this war of wars.  Today, our present military keeps and protects our lands and our freedom.  When you see your Military around town, be it our local armories, take the time to say thank you to these kids, that are wanting to make a difference.  The way this world is going these days, a War could transpire anytime.  There are world leaders, that are leaving us uneasy on different issues, and we pray that our children and generations to come, never have to experience it.

After 100 years, our weapons of mass destruction, are not just guns and grenades.  Our now so weapons of mass destruction, would end the world as we know it.  From bombs of larger mass destruction, to a nuclear war, we want to keep world peace now a days.  

On November 11th, take the time to remember.  Attend a memorial celebration if possible, or watch it with your kids on television.  Either way, keep the communication lines open, and let our generations now and in the future, always keep the line of respect.

Wear your poppy and donate to our war Veterans.  Many of these men and women that survived, did suffer from all the anguish and heartache, of what they went through and with PTSD.  

So this year 2018, it's our 100th anniversary date.  The war of 1918 ended some time between August and November.  There really never before, been such a conflict.  A nation of 8,000,000 people, Canada's war efforts were remarkable.  WE had more than 650,000 women and men from Canada served Newfoundland.... more than 66,000 gave their lives, and over 172,000 were wounded.

So we know for a fact, there was immense sacrifice that lead our great country to this Peace Treaty.  Canada has truly achieved great nation status.

O'Canada, our home and native land !!!! God keep our land, glorious and  FREE !!

So let's remember, and take the time on November 11th.  From our East coast to the West, and from Northern provinces to the South, let's give thanks !

Love you all, Miss "B"

Grieving .... Is there ever a timeline for this? How long is too long ?

 

 

The topic of Grief, seems to send everyone in different directions.  Some don't wish to talk about it, but it's something we all go through along our life span.  Unfortunately, more than once, for most of us.  There are never enough words we can say or tell someone who is going through this awful time.

For someone to actually tell you, that it's been too long, and you should be over it.  You never are.  In time, you learn to deal with it differently, but you never fill the void, and you never get over it.  It's not a disease, or a condition, or something that just passes like a light switch in a house.

 

It is not death or pain that is to be dreaded, but the fear of pain or death.
- Epictetus

 

Certain memories, come flashing back to you, and you can't help but miss them even more.  Whether it's your parents, a sibling, a child, which is astronomical and tragic, you just don't get over it.  So don't offend someone, and say that to him.  Be there for them during the whole process.  Some of us wish to mention things from time to time, a word spoken, an antic or joke they used to make, and that's their way of dealing with the loss.

 

Those we love don't go away,
They walk beside us every day,
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear.
- Anonymous

 

The thought of grieving over a lost child, would be the ultimate heartache, that any of us could bare as parents.  We always want to outlive our children, and be gone before them.  Unfortunately, sickness has no age.  Young children get struck with diseases as harmful and fatal as adults, like Cancer per say.  The trial and tribulations of just going through all the sickness portion, is more than we can handle, let alone the final saying good bye.  We learn in life to cope.  Coping skills come in different venues.  Some seek outside help, some just support from the inner circle.  Some of us prefer to deal with it on our own, and not talk about it at all.

 

However you chose, and however long it takes you, don't feel bad at all.  Don't feel a pressure from society, that a certain time frame is needed for grieving.  There is none.  There is more of a process, that you go through.  Almost like stages.  Always from the initial shock, if it was sudden, to knowing the sickness is taking over, and it's only time and he/she will be leaving this world.  Whatever the case may be, remember that there is things you can do to help see you through.  Life will still go on around us.  You want, at that time of grief, to STOP!... for you and for everyone.  You want the world to come to stand still, because your world was turned upside down. 

 

 

When we lose both our parents, it's been said, time and time again, you actually have a deep hollow feeling of being an orphan.  They are both gone, and you try and struggle to remember many memories, to keep them alive, and never forget.  For some, coming from a small family, losing a sibling, a brother or sister, and only have the one, is a worse feeling, like losing your BF.  Depending on the relationship you have had all your life.  With some of our families, being quite large in size, it's even worse, because you feel like you're always in survival mode, because it seems someone is always passing.  It seems you bump into family over and over again, especially with aging family, aunts and uncles, friends of parents, etc.  Weddings and funerals they say, is when we end up seeing folks, we haven't in so long.

 

I prefer these days, that more and more folks, are doing Celebrations of Life.  And that they are limiting their viewings to one, instead of two days, four viewings etc.  It used to be the norm, at one time, because family had to come and arrive from over seas, and you had to drag out funeral for days on end.  So hard on the family grieving.  Now things are more condensed, and some, don't even chose to have a funeral, but a celebration of sorts.  And I think it's wonderful.  It should not be all about the sadness of your loss, but at a time when they have now moved on, to celebrate the life they had with everyone here on earth.  A time to bring back memories and reminisce and share some good laughs.

 

Coping with the loss of someone or something you love is one of life’s biggest challenges. Often, the pain of loss can feel overwhelming. We experience all kinds of difficult and unexpected emotions. From shock or anger to disbelief, guilt, and profound sadness. The pain of grief can also disrupt your physical health, making it difficult to sleep, eat, or even think straight. These are normal reactions to a significant loss.  There is no right or wrong way to grieve.  There are healthy ways to cope with the pain that, in time, can ease your sadness.   Time can help you come to terms with your loss.   

We all need to find new meaning and to  move on.  As difficult as it seems at the time.   Of course, any type of loss can cause grieving.  A bad divorce, or relationship breakup, loss of health, or losing a job.  Financial instability, and/or a miscarriage.  Sometimes even retirement.  A death or passing of a pet, or even a friendship. 

 

The worst of all for most, seems to be death.  Be it a human or Pet.  It's difficult to move on from the loss, but again, we have no choice in life.  A loss can bring much anxiety and depression.  Many funeral homes, and EAP's etc., have services to help you get through this difficult time. 

 

The circle of life is what it is, a circle.  We come into this world, and with no escape of leaving it alive.  So , they say, the sooner we come to terms with it, the better of we are, in handling these things as they come.  So on a bright note, be there for someone always.  During these trial times, and even beyond the days ahead of them.  Problem is, most of us can't comfort a survivor, during their recent death.  Never enough words we can say, that don't sound generic

 

It's a topic, again, we try to avoid, but it's part of life.  So make someone smile today, that is going through rough times, be it over grief for something.  Not necessarily the passing of anyone, but just due to whatever their struggle is that is causing life's grief. 

 

Love you all, Miss "B".................................



HOSPITAL Life ..... 24/7..... what happens behind the curtain

In the wee hours of the night, while we are all in our warm quiet beds at home, and into our slumber, someone is fighting for their lives, or in need of stitches, or blood transfusion, or an emergency transplant.

Hospital workers are truly a fine bunch.  From the nursing staff of the RN's to the RPN's and Nurse Practitioners, to all the physicians, be it the on calls (residents and/or staff), to the paramedics and admin staff.

It takes thousands and thousands of staff members and millions upon millions of tax payer dollars, to run any of our hospitals in town here.  We are blessed in one way, that we have several, and they are all good in their own specialty.  Be it for trauma, heart and stroke, or orthopedic etc.

I am not being partial because I work at one, but I'm telling you, it takes a lot of people to move a mountain.  Patient Care Unit Clerks, who assist patients and families, to the Occupational therapists, that come to your aid depending on your need.

The cleaning staff, enviro services, to the cooking staff preparing meals and delivering to the patients.  Hospital security staff, keeping your loved ones safe, to the maintenance crews and shipping and receiving.  Paramedics, arriving day and/or night with emergency patients to the Emergency department that has no rest.  They are a department, that is hot to trot any given time of the day or night.  The problem we are having in our great city, is that we keep falling into a code zero.  We just so dangerous to have happen, as that means no ambulances available.  Here in this great country of Canada, we do not pay for medical services.  So we should not abuse it.  In any way.  By abusing it, I mean going to the ER departments for Non-Emergency things.  Non Life threatening for starters. 

One day I went for a walk during my lunch hour, and 7, I repeat 7 ambulances tied up in the tunnels, along with four police vehicles, that probably had to also bring someone in.  These ambulances, cannot leave, till they Transfer accountability.... meaning, that until the hospital can tend to them, and have a bed, they cannot be moved off the ambulance gurney.  Until there is a transfer of accountability, these fine paramedics, can't leave.  Which means, if his area, has a Code Blue, which is usually life threatening and someone has had a heart attack, there is no one close to come to their aid.  Someone from another area, has to be able to get their in time.

Hospitals are 24/7, as we all well know.  So much happens in both the days and nights.  Often I watch the staff leaving in the morning, walking through the parking lot tunnel to the hospital and see the drained tired faces of nursing staff, that has just finished a grueling 12 hour shift.  Whether they work on a medical unit, or Intensive care area, Emerg, or a Psych Patient floor, these men and women, work their butts off. 

It's so easy for us to mock, ridicule and complain about our medical services in the hospitals, but we have to realize one thing.  Whomever we have put into parliament has a lot to do with the funding these hospitals receives and all the cutbacks we suffer with.   We need the monies we collect, from our foundations, in order to fund things the hospital needs,  be it a new OR, new equipment, renovations, or a new wing.  Asking for provincial and federal aid, is always a huge undertaking and a budget is a budget.  Each Manager having to juggle numbers to keep his/her department running efficiently within the means given.

I prefer these days, unfortunately, to give less to Cancer research and more to my local hospital, because the need is great there also.  We seem to always funnel for research, and I'm not saying it's wrong too, we need it.  But some days, I feel like sharing the few dollars with our local amenities, that aid us day to day.  Research funding comes from many sources, and we always think of it, after a loved one passes, because they may have died of Cancer or a Heart / Stroke.  That being said, it wouldn't hurt to donate also either to the many various hospices in town, and our local hospitals.

I know from past experience, that I have had my share of complaining with the ER wait times, and hospital stays and events, like my late Father, falling out of bed one night while reaching for something that was placed too far away.  But things have a way of happening, that we have no control over.

Tootles to all the nursing staff , who take verbal and physical abuse on a day to day, week to week basis, depending on the units they work on.  That is another thing, I have seen first hand.  They truly earn their keep, and I think, honestly, there is no amount of pay their receive that compensates.

And then there is the Health Care Aids, and PSW's, who do just as much most days, as any of the registered nursing staff.  Keeping our elderly safe, and their well being in tact.  Going above and beyond their care duty, and helping those in need, especially the ones, that have no family coming to see them in the Long Term Care Facilities and retirement homes.  Cheers to all our home care providers and all they do.  I know both my folks were blessed with amazing ones.

All and all, in this country, we are truly blessed.  I realize, some people say, well, the United States, they pay for healthcare, and they have better quality.  There are pros and cons, to every establishment, be it privatized or run by governments etc.  Staff wise, good and bad everywhere.  But our overall experience also depends on how we present ourselves also.  If you've arrived scared and afraid, and you feel that taking it out on a hospital staff member works for you, then so be it.  Its not going to get you anywhere.  I for one, or any other staff member, don't take preference arriving at the ER for whatever the reason is.  You wait, by priority of seriousness, and importance.  Every case is evaluated from your Triage Nurse, right up to the first on scene once you get a place.

Let me tell you something, that your nursing staff knows more about your patient, then the average Doctor or Physician.  The detailed notes, they have to keep on each shift, and the duration of the stay, is unreal.  The Physician and/or Specialist, relies greatly on how the patient has weathered during that shift, and how they reacted to meds etc., that it all has to tie in.  They are the on duty Doctor during times of off shifts for Doctor's.  They are the eyes and ears for them. The front line workers.

And the next time you are talking to a hospital attendant, operator or paging clerk, give them the utmost respect, because these are women and men behind the scenes, that monitor and make much happen in a hospital.  A department that is there for you 24/7.  They get 911 calls from patients, not knowing what to do or where to go.  They get called from various departments to call in some other expertise.  They have handled  attempted suicide calls and offered many services for the many mental health patients out there.  Alarm sounds, be it Fire, Codes of all sorts and situations, gas alarms, hospital sensors, and even stuck elevators.  So next time you have a hospital operator on the phone, thank them for a job well done.  That's our heart of the operation, the Telecommunication Dept.


Take good care of yourselves, stay healthy and be well.
and please DONATE BLOOD... it's in you to give xo

Love you all , Miss "B"

Dogs, Cats, Birds.... oh my..

Sooooooo, where do we begin.... with the whole pet issue.
When should we get Pets, and who can handle them, and who can't.  It's always been a known fact, that, growing up, at some point in time, we all asked our parents for some sort of pet.

First thing that came to mind was a dog, and if that didn't fly, well,  "can we at least get a cat"?  Why was that lol.  As kids, we all ended up with some gold fish at some point in time, and no sooner did we get them home, after a week or two they died.  Down the toilet bowl they went.  Then you either upgraded to some fancy exotic fish, or your dad took the damn fishbowl and used it to store screws and nails.  Didn't dare ask for another fish, after one or two died.  Just wasn't happening.  Although shortly after, my younger brother brought home a beautiful exotic bird, which he trained to fly in and out of his cage onto his shoulders.  Well Dad thought he'd do the same and tried it outside one day, and well lets just say, "birds of a feather , flock together ".   He bolted.

So we started with fish as a pet, and moved onto the parent manipulation to get a cat.  Well, we brought one home.  For two days our parents didn't talk to us.  Dad was happy and accepted our cat Felix as his own,  and Mom continued to hate it.  It's funny though, over time, growing up with European parents, how warm and fuzzy they ended up over time, liking them.  The dog was definitely a NO ! But that being said, we managed to receive stuffed ones at  Christmas, that either walked, barked, or even talked.  There whole take on pets was this.  They had them in Italy, and they all lived outside.  Many dogs, many cats, all wild by nature and they fed them pasta and whatever meat was left.  That was the extent of their "so called" pets.

As we started our own families, we modernized and got the pets.  Again, pressure from our children.  So we break down and get them, and what happens, after several months, or some a year or so, these pets end up being more than family, they become our "second children".  The kids grow up, and become teens, and young adults, and have a "social life", because as parents, we don't, and these pets are now ours.  Well we do have a life, but some how we manage to worry about the pets more than they do.  Funny how the tables turn.

In layman terms, "WTF happened".  (LOL)  I can't say that I don't love animals, because from an early age, I knew I did.  Even thought of being a Vet, but thought of having to put an animal down frightened me.  Thankfully, my older brothers that got married before me, got dogs, and I was in heaven.  But it wasn't the same.  Now being well into my "golden years", (LOL) I have found them to be great company.  With the kids finally settling down, and moving onto their careers, and buying homes, and getting married.  It really has been great having a dog, cat and well, a hamster apparently too !

It's amazing how these fine furry friends cling to your ever being,  and know how to play your heart strings.  We first get them, and ban them from certain rooms, jumping onto the couches, and onto our beds.  It doesn't take them long to win us over, and now they end up sleeping in our beds 24/7.  Well I know my black knight does, as a black lab shepherd/collie.  He's like having a built in furnace on your bed when your feeling cold.  Or the wee breeds snuggling under the blankets, no other feeling.  They really learn the routine of the household quick enough.

Cats and dogs alike, are amazing pets to have.  I can't say i'm big on reptiles, or lizards, or birds for that matter, but i'm sure many have them.  The thing you have to consider though, as young parents, is when is a good time to get a pet.  Is it good when the babies are small, and they get used to them, and grow up with them.  Is it best when they're older and can take responsibility and walk them and feed them etc.  

It's a tough call.  There is much to consider. The work schedules, and how will it work, the financial aspect of it all, shots, yearly vaccines, food etc.  

Most of us get so intrigued and pressured even by friends.  We end up seeing adoptable animals from the rescue centers, and different Community SPCA's etc.  Or we see breeders advertise each and every litter, and you fall in love with these kittens and wee puppies.

Then there's the research involved in the breed.  What kind to get.  Pure Bred, or mixed, or mutts, etc.  It's a mind boggling situation when it's time to purchase or adopt a pet of any kind.  Aquariums for instance, can be overwhelmingly expensive, and much maintenance involved in keeping them.  A ton of work for sure.  I've seen many beautiful ones, built right into people's hallways in the walls, and they are quite stunning and relaxing to see.

The decision to get a pet is definitely life changing.  Many considerations also, as to whom will watch your pet, when you go away, or have to leave it for more than a day.  Cats are quite self sufficient in this area, but dogs not so much.  And then, can you trust Kennels or do you prefer to leave him/her with family and/or friends.

The size of dog for example, depending on your home, or apartment, brings questions about the breed you wish to purchase.  Having a big yard, and great size property is wonderful for larger breed dogs, so they have room to roam.  

So before you make such a huge decision, and it is one.  No kidding aside, as big a decision as buying a house, i'm sorry.  You're talking about bringing another family member into your household.  A pet that will bring many years of memories and love and happiness to you, your children, your parents, whoever it is you reside or live with.  Do not take it lightly.  Some of us develop a love for animals, were almost like dog whisperers.  Or Cat.  And that's fine too.  Some cat lovers an have up to 3 - 5 cats in their homes at any given time.  Blessings to a happy home is what i say.  They can take a bad day and turn into something calming and soothing.  I know my dog waits in anticipation for me to walk through the door, and there is honestly such a good feeling with that, like an instant hug.

Do your homework, research it all out.  Pros and cons list is always good.  Make the right decision and choice, and pick a pet you can handle, and will grow with you and your family or household.  Be it a piglet, dog, cat, parrot, fishes, or reptiles, think it all through, and be happy with your choice.  And please, if you've made the wrong decision, don't abandon your pets.  Call a local shelter, or advertise, and let that pet have a good home elsewhere.  

Snuggle and have fun with your pets and give them all the respect, love and happiness you give to others.  After all, they are more human than mankind.  And there love is unconditional.  

Love you all Miss "B"..... You are Welcome to leave your pet pics in the comments xo xo 

Are you a Baker, Cook, or master Chef.... consider this...

Hey everyone !
It's a blistery day in southern Ontario, and days like today, often we think of comfort foods, to make or bake.

With the fall here in full swing, and what feels like winter, not too far behind, we think of many warm dishes, like crockpots of chilli, and beef stews, and many more warm things to comfort our bodies.
Baking warm banana or pumpkin loafs, and making many fall foods, and squashes etc.

Many European people get ready for the wine season, and for making the Sausage and Prosciutto's etc., with winter around the corner.  So what is it about foods that comfort, and keeping traditions in making all these different foods?

Well, keeping in mind, that stores, seem to have always have certain things on sale during certain seasons of the year, just because of this very thing, traditional things to make during certain seasons.
Some have to be made during the winter months, because they have to cure in the cold cellars, and cantina's.  Other's it's just the time of year to do them, depending on the crops, and what we are making during the fall or spring season and summer of course.

So today, I found myself searching for a lean ground meat sale, to drop into the crock pot and have a nice pot of Chilli con carne simmering, with beans, and tomatoes, and other vege's.  Many of us affiliate certain foods with the fall/winter season.

The whole idea of comfort foods, makes us warm and fuzzy inside.  Soups, that are creamy and hardy.  Stew's that are loaded with vegetables and certain stew meats.  Other's its creamy pasta dishes, like a good southern Macaroni and cheese, alla Nashville style... mmmmmmm

It's a time of suffering the net to find new recipes.  Be it Pinterest, or just plane Google Searches, we find that sharing recipes, is always great.  I have decided that this Christmas, I want to attempt making a nice Coquille St. Jacques for the eve.  I found many recipes, but nothing tops getting one from a family member who's made the dish before.  It's great to share recipes, and we should always post them, because we find, that sharing is caring.

I for one, love posting them on my FB wall, and I have probably saved dozens and dozens.  I have a category for every time of dish, even on Pinterest.  Who does not love Pinterest.  Single mena nd women, find great recipes for their date nights, to empress their companions.  Many of us to change out of the normal cooking thing.  My kids love having the same favourite dishes.  Although from time to time, I love changing it up.  Many restaurants you go to, this time of year, have added seasonal items also.  I love the many soups you can try at various places.  Even our local grocery stores, have added quite a take out menu for us working people.  It's unbelievable what we find.

But you can't beat sharing a recipe from a friend.  So I thought for this blog, we can add in our comments section, some of your favourite dishes and how to make them.  Either a link or a recipe share.  It's like a holiday Christmas cookie exchange, we love trying all our friends baking. 

Changing the day of the week, from Taco Tuesday to a Turkey stew night.  From your Friday pizza night, to a "make your own Calzone night", we are always changing up and wanting to bring in new things.

We spend so much time in this room in our homes, called a Kitchen.
It's the heart of a home they say.  Its a place where we meet as a family and eat and discuss daily happenings and events.  A time where we reconnect.  Whether you have a small kitchen just for cooking, or a huge eat in and massive Chef's kitchen, it

Share some of your favourite recipes, or sites where you've found some interesting dishes.  I know many men that love cooking and baking, so please do share.  There is nothing better than hitting a market, like St. Jacob's, or our local markets and buy fresh squashes, and vegetables, and make your favourite dishes with fresh produce.  Whether your vegan, vegetarian, or a meat lover, there is something for us all.  Eat to Live, and don't Live to Eat, but share to care, and drop a recipe or two to a friend, co worker, or family. 

Have a pot lock dinner with friends, and have each and everyone of you, make a favourite dish.  It would be the ultimate buffet, that you would find in no restaurant anywhere.  Not that would hold a candle to it.  They say, nothing is better to warm a man's heart, than through his stomach... well that goes both ways people, so "guys", turn on those burners, and make something special for your sweetie or companion. 

Love you all, Miss "B", enjoy your weekend.  and Bake to Make, and Book to Cook.... dust off those recipes books (if you still have any),,,, and "Tutti a Tavola"....

xo