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

Friends, new, old acquaintances....

Over a lifetime, we meet and are blessed to have friends that are here for us always.
Friends that become family, some are from work relationships, others just transpire, from attending a Moms & Tots group.

From when we first draw a breath, the one true friend is our Mothers.  We open our eyes, and other than a funny faced doctor and some nurses, our first warm embrace is our parents, be it a father or mother.  Or one who has just adopted you.

Relationships such as these, would last a lifetime.  At least for most of us.  Then we have neighbors, and other friends we meet through daycare, and early school years.  Some end up staying for life.
We move onto Secondary, and add more to our collage.  Again, some stay with us from childhood, and some you just meet by chance.

We begin in the adulthood portion of life, and start in the work world.  Making many more.  How truly blessed we are.  If you stop and think, over a lifetime, of how many people you met or kept in your life, it could be quite astounding.  But most of us wonder though, it's not the quantity of friends you have, its the quality of them.  Ones you can count on through thick and through thin.

People shouldn't and don't run, when you need them the most.  Persons you have always been there for, but yet, can't count on when the going gets tough.  But is it because they hate confrontation, or to tell you something you do not want to hear.  Sometimes a friend needs to tell you , what you don't want to hear to help you out.  To see you through dark times.

And then there's the ones we call FAKE friends.  The one's that always seem to perfect, yet deep down inside, they have their own skeletons to deal with.  A friend that is envious of you and all you have and do, and yet, you don't see the other side of them.  Friends can be many things, but for the most part , we reap what we sew.  So never lie to someone who trusts you, and never trust someone who lies to you.  One thing my Mom taught me at an early age.  Growing up in a large family, we had our share of friends, people, strangers we invited to our home for holidays, celebrations and other events.  It never ceased to amaze me, why after opening your home and heart to them, why people would leave and have bad things to say about you, or disgrace and disrespect you.

My dear late Father once said, the most evil of all that God gave us, was the human tongue.. And he was so right.  We are not perfect as humans, for sure. But be true to yourself and the people you love.
Many of my best friends are men actually, because I was hurt so many times from, lets use the phrase, female friends. and/or girlfriends.  Growing up in a family of men, aka all brothers, I found them to be true to heart.  They always were there for me, and made even good friends with some of their friends.  It's historically correct, that politicians lie, and great leaders, and even to themselves, and people that run against each other for positions, but were once friends.

So what obsesses us to do this evil thing sometimes.  Are life's struggles that hard, that we alienate people we love.  The human race has been known for that.  But truly a friendship should  never be lost over stupid things, and people should not be cruel enough to belittle someone.  Whether it be a Mother and Daughters friendship.  A father and son.  Brother to Brother, sister to sister, sister to brother, or friend to friend.  It is not any different, whether we are family through blood, or family through marriage, or friendships that are decades long.  Be there for people.  Take the time to talk.  Especially when one is struggling.  Put your pride aside and make good of something and be there.

Love it when you haven't spoken to friends in weeks, months, not a daily basis, and you hook up and find time, what a greater feeling, when you pickup where you left off.
That meet and greet and sharing a hot cup of cocoa and catching up just about anything.  Be it work, the kids, a latest trip you took, whichever, just make the time.

Sometimes life can be like a hamster on a wheel, and it just slips away from us.  Friendships shouldn't.  So reach out and touch someone.  Don't make excuses and lies, just be there for people.  After working in acute mental health for awhile, you see the loneliness in patients eyes because of the lack of having people around to truly listen to them.  Its amazing what they tell you, and whats on their minds.  A friend can be a stranger per say.  There is a homeless lady that sits by the hospital, day and day out... and we know much of her.... but you know what she says, even when people walk by her and don't give her money, God Bless you have a good day my friends.  So some days I just talk to her, she knows , and just wants to know that life hasn't beaten her down, and just a short conversation, can raise her spirits.  I'll bring her baked goods or coffee, and she is so thankful.  She is a friend in the sense that I can make her day good, and she mine too, because I hope and pray I never have to be that wonderful woman on the street begging.  I go home and am thankful for what I have and who I have in my life.  Friendship can mean so many things. 

True friends are one that you can enjoy a quiet drive, and not share much in ways of conversation.  Go shopping with, and separate in the mall, and meet up again.  Having a quiet breakie or lunch or dinner, and not really talk about much, but just being there.  So "just be there" why is it so difficult for us.

Lasting "work" friendships are amazing to have.  You can not talk for sometime, but catch up over a hot cup of coffee.  Takes a lifetime to keep a long friendship, but only moments to lighten one's heart back up.

Then there's the friendships that overtime, have died.  Just for stupid reasons, or something so unforgiving, that we couldn't put it aside.  But why, we have to ask ourselves.  What was it, that we couldn't forgive.  Some say, we are good at forgiving, but cannot forget.  That's true in a sense.  I've known this to be true, time and time again.  But honestly, we an do better for ourselves.  Don't lie to yourself or others.  If it's gone, it's best to be true to that, and not continue a FAKE friendship.  We probably have experienced those along our lifelines also.

If you can't be real to one's face, then don't be fake to it.  Not behind their backs, or in front.  Don't go to church on Sunday's and sit in a pew and praise and sing the word of God, and then do ill doings all week long, and wrong to people and expect redemption.  Friends forever.  A famous phrase that should be with us always.

Keep your true friends close to heart.  Don't have to practice the old "keep your friends close, and your enemies even closer"... we truly shouldn't have any.  Well, maybe some Presidents, or politicians we don't like, but do good by all.  Some just don't know any better.

Then there's the ones who died on us.  The one's we can't forget.  They remain in our thoughts and hearts for a lifetime it seems.  I lost a brother.  And to this day, to what I believe, were once friends, that became Foe's... if that is truly possible.  Fake and cruel friend.
But you know what see's you through, is faith, love and respect.  And an undying love.  A love that will never perish.  Death of a friendship, should ever only mean when one leaves this world, and has passed on.  Having to lose friends because of any other reason, should not happen to us.
We know and accept that we have some control over this, and some we don't unfortunately.

It's like the Serenity prayer., we  can control some things, but we want the wisdom and strength to see through what we can't.   When we lose friends, because of their passing, we acknowledge in our hearts and pray that one day we will meet again, depending on our beliefs.   We share memories, and photographs of happier times when our friendships were in full bloom.   When we couldn't imagine our lives without each other.  Married couples for example, for the most part, are best friends, and the thought of losing each other is always such a sad feeling.  But we pray and keep our relationships strong, and that we have and live a happy, long life. 

Like Peter Pan, and the lost boys of Neverland, men tend to bond in a way different from us women.  They seem to be able to keep their "buds" for a long time.  So why is that ?  Well , they don't sweat the small stuff, or worry about who's wearing what, and who can afford to shop at certain stores, etc.  It's a known fact, that us women are more critical of each other, and our sex.  So let's not judge.  Always been in my blogs.... Let's be there for everyone.  Through thick and through thin.  Not just when life is convenient for you.  JUST DO IT.... an amazing line.   Call a friend be there for everyone.  The lasting feeling is like euphoria.  Take care, and be well "my friends"... thanks for reading my blogs, i'm truly blessed.   Love you all Miss "B"... comments are welcome.

Movies, Motion Pictures, theaters , the old days to now..

How many of you remember movie theater hopping, or bringing in snacks and drinks in your backpacks or shoved in your clothes lol... oh come on, we all did it at some time.

The old days down in the east end of Hamilton, Ottawa street area, I remember my brothers telling us how they bolted down the alley ways and went to the old Avon Theater and watched matinees for like 25 cents.  Now we have to break our damn wallets to go see a show at, what $13 plus a person. 
Well that isn't it... you have to break the bank to get a damn popcorn bag and super sized drink too.
All and all, over a $50 night for most couples. 

Now in the age, of dishes, and live streams, people prefer to wait to get it on their boxes, or download illegally.  Well, there's nothing like seeing a movie on the big screen with the sound effects and 3D or 4D, like come on.  Reality is, now with these large television screens and modern sound systems, people like to watch it in the comfort of their homes.  Which is fine, not saying either or.  I'm a big sucker for popcorn at home and good movie on netflix, no line ups, no one kicker your chair behind you, and endless amounts of snacks from your pantry, cheap date right ?

Theaters have definitely gotten bigger, and now with restaurants, and liquor licenses, you can't go wrong I guess.  Although I miss the days of bringing the kids in, and you loaded up with juice boxes, and granola bars, and candy, oh the thrill of it all.  I don't want to date myself, but I can remember movie cinemas offering toonie Tuesdays at one point.

WE need more movies in the parks in the summer, and do they even do birthday party rooms in the theater anymore, I remember that was quite popular.  All and all, there is nothing like a  Sunday matinee to spend a quiet afternoon, or a quick movie night during the week, to break up the rat race, we all life.

Why wait till the weekend, when the movie cinemas are inundated and crowded, take your kids to an early show during the week even.  A break from the school stress, and homework etc.  Grab your wife, husband, partner, and/or room mate, and just grab even a movie you were not likely to see.

I for one, love Disney animated ones.  So does my daughter.  She wouldn't think twice about seeing, Cars, or Toy Story, or any of those actually.  I think it keeps us all young at heart.  A good old horror movie, always intrigued me for sure.  Now when I watch them, i see the acting was so lame in them but I still enjoy the old "Amityville Horror", or the "jason's", "Christine", and Poltergeist. 

From horror's, to war movies, to reality films based on true life, there is usually something to capture our minds and hearts.  A time to reconnect form the hustle and bustle of life.  So save your Scene  points, and use it to your best.  Take in a movie now and then.  There are many theaters, and Ultra max, and even downtown with lazyboy chairs and you can even pick your seating, wow hey.  We've come along way.  Digital Imax to home theaters.  Take the time to just get lost in a story.

I may not always agree with some of the story lines and movies that are created and put out from "new age" Hollywood, but we can pick and chose what we want to see and when. 

Enjoy, relax, and indulge for that one night, in popcorn, pop and snacks, and sit back and chillax.

Happy movie watching all !  Comments are welcome, let us know what types of movies you like... or recommend... we all have an opinion... drop them in comments, because we value what you saw, and what you thought of it... xo

Take care, love you all Miss "B"...

WORK Colleagues, Enemies or Friends ?....

In the past 35  years of my working career, I would have to say , that overall, I have been blessed with lifetime friends from certain jobs I had throughout my career.  Even friends outside of work, from management.  You are and forever should be, the same person, and not change for anyone.

It tends to differ for us all, depending on our line of work, or if we run or have our own businesses etc.  But overall, many of us have made lasting relationships and friendships with a small scale group of peers.  With small business, it's difficult sometimes, to make friends of your employee's... but it doesn't mean you should treat them any different.  Show people the respect they deserve.

They were either called our "work buds, or "work Colleagues"... or even work family.  When we think of the number of hours we spend at work, as opposed to at home, they truly do become a second family,  work family.

The unfortunate part is that there are a handful of prime evil, lazy ass, no good for nothings, that like to make our lives a living hell.  Saddens me to say, but  I've had a few in my work career.  Some days, for some people, it makes getting up for work a struggle, and you end up hating your job.  And so why do we let this small minority do this, or push us around.  Stand your ground people.

These are folks that hate their jobs, and can't stand happy people in the same job.  Or the hate the management to the point, that they have to recruit "haters" too.  STAY CLEAR AWAY... is what I say.   If everyone just got along, and I know, we all have different characters, but just think how great the morale would be, if this did happen.

It's like checking a work schedule to see how's on and who's off, and cringing at the thought of having to work with a certain individual.  Kill them with kindness I say, and if that doesn't work, then ignore.  Every so often, no matter what struggles we have outside of work, some days, we bring our home life to work with us, and makes it that much harder to function, or relate with our work peers.

And visa versa, we should not bring our work life, problems, issues or struggles home.  It makes for an unhappy household, and it shouldn't be the way.  We used to come home, and say,  "hey honey, how was your day?"... in question format, that opened up a whole can of worms.  Now I have set a new phrase, worded, Hey Honey, hope you had a good day, and if not, your home now, relax.

That's right.  Don't let these "ignorant", and "low self esteem" individuals break who you are.  IF you like joking around and making people laugh, then JUST DO IT !!!!  If you like helping out, when your work load is low and you see someone struggling, then HELP.  And God knows, if you see someone not pulling their end of things, and purposely not doing their job, or endangering yours, then SPEAK UP.....

Too many of us get intimidated by folks, that i used to fall 'NEGATIVE NELLIES"... or the ones, that can't stand the new kids on the block, you know, the "new hires"... and want to test them out, by giving them wrong information, so they purposely SCREW UP,  and/or train them wrong.  Nothing urks me more.

The morale can stem from the management, from time to time, but sometimes, it's created by miserable employee's that didn't have a good run with their bosses, and want to throw them under the train, just for pure satisfaction.  Like really ????

This week is over and done with, and Monday, for some of us is the start of a fresh new week.  Think of ways to make your work place a happy one.  A stress free environment among your peers, so you can function day to day.  Don't shoot down the new comers, and don't criticize people that want to do a job a certain way, because it works for them.  Doctor's, and nurses, and engineer's and office staff, no matter what your job occupation is, give yourself and others the benefit of the doubt, and make the work place a great place to gather in.  Whether it's a short shift, an 8 hr, or 12 hour long shift, as you're plugging away, make a difference to someone and make them smile.

Some are smiling, and you don't know what struggles they have outside the work place.  Take the time, to talk, and put down your damn cell phones, and give people the time of day, they all deserve, including yourself.  Lunch hour walks around the block, just to chat, and catch up.  Buying forward a coffee at the Tim's line, or in the work cafeteria, just to make someone's day.

But a reminder, to all you miserable folks, cheer up, because none of us getting out of this life ALIVE, so enjoy the days, afternoons, and evening shifts, and make the best of both your worlds.  The workplace will benefit, and home life, will too.  Think of how much happier we would all come home.

Stay healthy, happy and most of all, give of yourself all the good in you, and bury the bad.

Love you all Miss "B"..... have a great weekend xo

Inner Clock... 3 am bewitching hour ? really ?

3:00am... the bewitching hour ?
What is it with our inner clocks... is it humanly possible that our brains just can't shut off, and we seem to have a certain time we wake up every day ?
It's been known to be called many things... Devil's hour, bewitching, and well, to be quite frankly, apparently when the devil has most activity, between 3 and 4 am.

Thankfully, when we do get woken up at that hour, I truly can't say, I've seen or heard him.
Not sure what the mystery is behind the 3am hour.  Sometimes we wake up in the night feeling confused, all sweaty and seem to have the jitters.  When woken up at this hour, it seems to send our minds in a tizzy.  But devil's hour, really ?  I have even read, that because Jesus was crucified at 3pm in the day, that 12 hours later, the demons like to mock the time he was crucified.  All hearsay, and of course, depending on the sites you read this stuff on, well, to each his own.  

How fascinating is our human brain.  What does it take to shut this thing off?  Well besides many DVD's and Cd's, and apps on our phones such as Calm and many others, sometimes music works.  Then there's essential oils and meditation.  God knows I've tried them all.
From Melatonin, to Sage and many other products, what can we all do, to shut our minds enough to reach that deep sleep.

I tend to kid around about it, but my inner clock is usually 5:30am.  God knows that bladder doesn't want to just wake up when rest of your body does.  So you end up sleep walking to the bathroom in the hopes of not running into any walls.

Do you marvel at the fact, that on our days off, your body still wakes up at the same time.
Thinking it has to go to work, and pisses you off to no tomorrow.  You actually have to convince yourself for some more shut eye, and toss and turn for maybe another hour, and your damn body wins.  

Well, been doing the tossing and turning for the last hour, and henceforth, i'm down here writing my blog, because yesterday was such a busy day, that I just decided to take the day off.  So here we are, i'm off today, and i'm downstairs with a mug of hot tea, in the hopes that i can squeeze in a few extra hours, but NO NO NO, my mind is a flutter, and I decide to write about the lack of sleep humans get.

There is no scientific theory to support these claims about these devil or bewitching hours, and all that takes place.  Most of us who sleep through the night, your REM (Rapid Eye Movement) , tends to change cycle at this hour of the night.  Oh believe you me, I've read everything there is to know about sleep. 

Many of us suffer with Sleep Apnea, which is no joking matter, and have aids from CPAP machines to keep the air flow going into our bodies.  Basically keeping us from not having these oxygen levels drop to a point where you are not breathing at all.  Scary shit, let me tell you.  There was a time in my life, when it was so severe, I woke up gasping for air.  That's when the brain marvel kicks in.  It's an amazing thing for it to know well enough your not getting oxygen and it wakes the hell up out of you !

Stress, worry, and many things can alter our brain activity.  It's one of those things, we just have to learn to shut down.  Easier said then done.  Between our home lives, and work, and school, and whatever it is, that occupies your hours of life during the day, it's never easy to just cut the chord.

But whatever it takes, do it.  Because sleep is such a health benefit to us.  It's a time when our body heals and restores many things.  For one your energy levels, and overall wellness.
Again, I'm no Doctor or claim to be, but take it from a Fibromyalgia sufferer, it's time your body heals your aches and pains also.  And lack of sleep, ends up making you feel like you've been in a car accident, or just run a bloody marathon.  

So make a cup of tea, use your Sage, take your Melatonin.  Whatever works !  But try and rest my peeps, because life passes us by too quickly, and days turn into nights at the blink of an eye.  And as for these "demons" or "devils", you need to leave the living alone to get their beauty sleep.  And human's, don't watch any horror's before bed either.  That just messes you up for the night.

Okay, shot of warm brandy, and back to bed I go.  Warm calming thoughts to all.

Enjoy your day, or sleep if you're a nurse or shift worker, coming off night shift.

R and R to you all

Love you, Miss "B"

Pharmaceutical Giants ... the "real" Drug Lords

What is it about prescription drugs and survival ?  Or are we all dying slowly because of them.
They are worried about conquering the drugs that are illegal and coming into our schools and homes.
Why is it that we don't also deal with an even greater issue.  Legal drugs.

The fact that so many of us get hooked on pain meds, of every shape, size or color.  Long term use of anxiety and depression meds, and people still take their lives.  What is it that's in these things.

Face it everyone, I truly believe there is a cure for cancer and many other diseases.  But the Pharmaceutical giants are making billions and running this show.  It's gotten to the point, that I do not want to donate to research anymore for Cancer and other diseases for this very reason.

Why so close minded ?  Well can you blame myself or anyone for that matter.  It's gotten to the point, that they are funding our universities, especially "Med" schools, and how much of the seven to eight years they are there, is spent on preventative medicine ?  I hate to tell you, not to "bleep" "bleep" much.

It's more on studying the meds and how they can keep us sustained or keeping ailments or side affects at bar.  Other than possibly antibiotics, which have also run their course, what do they do long term, except ruin or damage other parts of our bodies.

When you watch the commercials on television for these medications, do you notice they take twice as long to tell you the side affects, or what not to mix it with, or this could happen and that could happen, then the actual benefits of the damn thing.

This billion dollar pharmaceutical industry is nothing but a business.  The caring and curing stopped a long time ago.  Think of the actual "chemo therapy".... can you imagine the millions of dollars they would lose, if we actually didn't need this for certain cancers, and for any other treatment they use it for.  Think about how many have undergone this treatment with no avail.  They are focused maybe on keeping you alive a little longer.  I would honestly opt to have a better quality of life, for whatever remaining months I had with my family, then damage the shit out of my body.  Millions of medical insurance dollars just to have you come in and receive this treatment. 

It's unreal.  And for diabetics for instance, their medications have gone through the roof.  With 3 medications, patients can average over $300 a month, not including lancets and other things they need just to check their blood daily.  Plus the insulin, let's not even go there.  They try to educate you, and have Diabetic clinics, in the hopes, that at least with Diabetes 2 you will rectify with diet and exercise, but not everyone, unfortunately, can achieve this goal.

So that being said, it's something that you really think about once you've hit the "golden" years, and even before that, if we've been struck with battling a serious disease or one that needs constant maintenance like LUPUS, or MS / MD.  It's quite frightening actually.  But on a brighter note, do whatever you can to make your insides healthy, and question anything and everything they prescribe you.  Don't forget to ask when you can ween yourself off, and don't hesitate to refuse to take things, if you think they won't do your body good.

I went through this not long ago with my husband, and nightly diabetic med he was on.  Ask questions, and if you are suffering with more side effects, then any benefits, then get off it.  I am not doctor, or claim to be.  But let me tell you, these past three years, working at the hospital, I have heard m any horror stories for various medications.  So please remember,
'KNOWLEDGE IS POWER"...  read, from reputable sights, and inform yourself.

You can never know enough.  Don't throw our your drug info sheets from your Pharmacist.  They at least, care to a certain extent, and want you to know.  And if you 're not sure, then ask Him/Her.

They sometimes, are more knowledgeable then Physicians. 

Be well, stay healthy, and ask questions always !  Let's not make these giants richer than they already are.  Caring is sharing. 

Love you all, Miss "B"

Traditions.... Holidays... New & Old...

Many of us, young and old, have come from European families, and with that, has come many traditions.

When it came to north american holidays, our families ( parents and grandparents alike ) adapted well.  In keeping with their food selections, they managed to intertwine things they loved to make, with what was expected to eat on that particular holiday.

Since I am in the Thanksgiving mode, and we are celebrating this particular holiday today, I tried to remember growing up, what we managed to eat this very day.  With family growing and getting married, and other backgrounds and cultures, married into the families, we always managed to please everyone.

Growing up in an Italian family, pasta was a main course, no matter what meal or occasion we were celebrating.  Be it Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, or parties of larger sorts, like bridal/baby showers, engagements, and/or wedding celebrations.

It wasn't till my teenage years that I ever remembered my Mom actually cooking a turkey.  Was not a meat of culture for sure.  But once other family members married, and began other more Canadian type traditions.

And believe you me, it became a ten course meal.  Not only a selection of meats, from roasted lamb, to veal cutlets, but she still managed to make Turkey and Ham, and whatever else she wanted to attempt to make.

So this holiday weekend, when we are celebrating this Thanksgiving, a time of recognition of blessings and giving thanks for many things, I would like to honor my dear Mother, and Father of course.  Growing into North American traditions, would have had to be difficult for them.

Whether you were Greek, Italian, Croatian, Indian, or whatever culture, you made due, and you tried to keep your children learning the Canadian ways.  A turkey for starters, was a foreign meat for most cultures, but they ended up loving it.  I know my Mom looked forward to Thanksgiving.  

My Dad, now that was a different story.  Your first course, had to be pasta.  And then after that, he truly didn't care.  We were blessed to have a large family, and with it, we introduced many different foods, like french meat pies, and hams, and other great foods of the world.

With that, my miracle Mom, aka Nonna, managed to learn to make the best of the best.  She honestly made the greatest cabbage rolls, this side of Poland/Ukraine.  She learned to bake the best of apple pies, and pumpkin too.  Her sole ambition was to please her children, and that she did.

We attempted many holidays, to do the old "pot lock" thing.  She couldn't comprehend people bringing food to her home, when she invited you over to eat at her table.  That being said, we managed, as years got up there, and she was aging, to do this.  And she complied.  It was nice to try different dishes, that we all took the time and love to make.

I know with my children now, I love it when they contribute to a meal.  It makes them feel special, and we create new holiday traditions.  

Today, when your circled by the many generations of family and friends, of course, please remember to keep the old with the new.  Don't let traditional dishes fall behind.  I know we don't.  Our most favorite turkey side dish, besides, corn, mashed potatoes and stuffing, is our peas and mushrooms dish.  

Have your children make something, whether they bake or put bring apps, or sides, let them.  Start new traditions, be it when you celebrate it, where and what you are going to eat, and keep what you've close to your heart.

Enjoy your day, and make new memories and traditions and honor your memories of the old.

Buon Appetito !

Tutti a tavola !

Love you all Miss "B"

Please don't hesitate to post your comments on the blog below.  Love to hear from you xo 

Tattoo Lovers... Haters... Freedom of Expression ?

What can I say.... I've got 2... yes I do !  and a third under construction lol.
It's one of those things again, no one really sits on the fence on  You either love them or hate them.... and the small minority, love to see them on others...

All I have to say, even though I got mine later in life, i think was early 40's.... my Mother still lost her shit.  Probably why I didn't do them any sooner coming from a strict upbringing.  My Pops (DAD) was more cool with it.... He always called me "Bella di Babbo"... which mean, Dad's Beauty, and that I had a heart of an angel....
well I ended up getting a heart with angel wings wrapped around, and my dad's phrase around it...
Later on I got it shadowed and colored in, which was nicer than it's original black.

I later got a beautiful Victorian Heart with soft lines around it side to side.  It  just appealed to me.

Tattoo's have been around for decades and probably date back to the middle ages.... no i'm serious.

Many cultures, such as North American tribal nations, and countries like India, and Indonesia, and other western areas, have had these around for centuries.  Some nations used more the Henna type tattoo, but it was a way of expressing their cultures and even religions.  Some got their God's inked on them, and others, different symbols that meant something.

Although many of us, and we shouldn't be this way, affiliate tattoo's with bikers and other nonsense, because of the fact, that they do tend to express themselves with these works of art.  And they are indeed a work of art.  I have seen full sleeves, (whole arms), and/or backs done that are quite intense and magical.  Some artists portray more on the cartoon side of graphics and others, more real and 3D and believe me, lots of work and hours go into these.

It's not just intense for them, to create and work on your body, but for the recipient, it's pain staking hours of sitting still or in one position.  Many have to go back to continue or finish up with the colouring portion of these works of art.

It's a freedom of expression really.  I don't know why people judge.  If you don't like them, don't get one.  But don't judge.  There are world leaders that have them, politicians and other religious leaders.  I know many that attend our local Buddha temple that have them.  They have come along way, and most inks used now don't have such a metal content, so as to endanger anyone.  Yes when you do go for surgery, they need to know for medical reason, but other than that.  No different than all these people with multiple ear punctures and/or body piercings.

Some have gotten loved ones, inscribed on their chests and arms, for reasons to keep their memories alive and their loved ones close to them.  Many of us all have our own rhyme or reason for getting them.  I just don't agree with the old judgement call.  The phrase, "you don't judge a book by it's cover", falls well with Tattoo's.  Don't judge a person by what they have on their bodies.

No different than what they're wearing really.  Whether it be hearts, gothics, phrases, names and funny expressions, it is a choice that we make to have this done.

People around the world have been tattooing human skin to communicate various ontological, psychosocial, and sociocultural concepts encompassing beauty, cultural identity, status and position, medicine, and supernatural protection. 
As a system of knowledge transmission, tattooing has been and continues to be a visual language of the skin whereby culture is inscribed, experienced, and preserved in a myriad of specific ways. 

If we are to fully comprehend the meanings that tattoos have carried across human history and into the present, then it would be useful to explore some of the ways tattoos, as instruments that transmit culture, have been deployed cross-culturally through time.

That is my take on it, as is many. if you like it, then JUST DO IT..... RIGHT ?  If not, then enjoy looking at others, but don't judge people.  It's just wrong.  Employer's shouldn't base the employment of a nurse, teacher, doctor or any other trade on this way of expressing themselves because they have a tattoo. I'm a grandmother, and have two tatt's... my daughter, son, daughter in law, have them.  I have dozens of family members with them.

Some individuals love for them to be discreet, and that's fine.  Some are quite personal, and only for special eye's only, heck that's fine too.

So do me a favour, be it gothic, crosses, devils, or whatever it is, don't judge okay, life can be a struggle for so many people, that they don't need to be passed through an imaginary court conducted by you.

Like I said, some people deal with things differently.  Grief can make you want to keep a loved one close to your heart, and so a Tattoo comes to mind.

Believe me, I know someone who tattoo'd EXIT ONLY on a butt cheek, so there you go.... Who am I to judge....

Some people tattoo their loved ones names on their arms or chest, well, that can be tricky, seeing's how the divorce rate is high these days, and they are a bitch remove... lol

So enjoy them, make them an expression of you and who you are stand for.

Life... Live Love Laugh...

(there's one for you)

Enjoy Life, and Tatt away...… Love you Miss "B"