Heading out to a surprise 50th birthday party tonight, on New Year's Eve. We ended up getting printed invitations to add to the excitement. Usually we don't go out so it's kind of nice to be able to say we're actually doing something interesting! The kids are also invited. I'm driving so that M can have a few drinks. The only thing about a surprise party is that you have to be early... added stress as M always tends to be late for things. Looks like we're expecting 10-15cms of snow overnight and into the morning.

CityTV seems to be doing a great 'no alcohol' show downtown at Nathan Phillips Square tonight, wouldn't mind watching that. The cast of 'We Will Rock You!' will be singing.

News

Final preps underway for biggest party of the year
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_18134.aspx

News ranged wide on cancer front in 2007
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071230/cancer_2007_071230/20071230?hub=Health

Busting up germ gangs to fight treatments
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071231/germ_gangs_071231/20071231?hub=Health

Freecycling

Went for a walk in the afternoon, the weather was nice, not a lot of wind. I saw a man chipping ice off his driveway and suggested he pour some boiling water on it, he thought that was funny. Unionville Main Street is having horse and carriage rides until Dec 31 in the afternoons, $25 for a carriage not including tip.

K and I did groceries. He picked himself up some yogurt, cheesecake, dunkaroos and I told him to throw back the fruit gusher candy and anything like that. I ended up getting him a Twix bar at checkout.

L and I finally tried that sweet potato bundt cake that I saw on Food TV a few weeks ago. It is absolutely delicious, healthy and pretty easy to make. Yesterday I tried this 'Petits Pois a la Francaise' recipe, also from Food TV and it was really good, I just added a little salt.
http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,1977,FOOD_9936_34749,00.html

I phoned an older relative to wish her and her husband the best for the season. She had a hard time this year with heart valve replacement and sounds a lot better. Hope they have a good 2008.

News

Internet opens elite colleges to all
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071230/ap_on_hi_te/megauniversity_world_classroom_4

Free swap network makes trash treasure
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071229/ap_on_hi_te/freecycle_flourishes_2

Young adults heavy library users
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071230/ap_on_hi_te/internet_libraries_1

Dinner stories

We had fun at the restaurant last night although it wasn't cheap. Our friends told us they had an exciting experience while making Xmas dinner for 23 people. It seems they had squeezed 2 smaller sized turkeys into the oven by using a foil roaster for one of them. It sort of bent in beside the other roaster. Unfortunately it sprung a leak and the turkey fat dripped to the bottom of the oven and when they opened the door to check on it, they were greeted with a wall of flame. But the unflappable hosts quickly shut the door, turned the oven off and that saved the day. They were even able to eat all the turkey afterward. I don't know if I'm capable of such quick thinking, but I'll try to remember that one anyway. I guess that's why they say you should never leave your cooking unattended.

I was impressed when I heard about their 18 person seafood meal that they had at the lady's mom's house on Xmas eve. It seems they traditionally have a 7 course seafood meal consisting of every type of seafood you can think of. Fish, shrimp, scallops, squid...mmm. This made me think of how much red meat we eat, and I'm consciously steering away from prime rib roasts marbled with fat, however tender it can be.

News

Flatulence expert defines 'normal' output rate
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071228/flatulence_expert_071228/20071228?hub=Health

Information overload predicted to be the office scourge of 2008
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_18038.aspx

Man leaves waitress $50,000 and a car
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071229/ap_on_fe_st/odd_posthumous_tip

The Fish House

L had a hot cream manicure today, she was using a gift certificate. She said the cream was very hot. Things seemed back to normal at the mall, I browsed the leftovers. I got K some new pants as the legs on his current stuff seem to be getting short.

My car started telling me that it's due for service and it will continue telling me until I take it in, so we made an appointment. It does that with the tire pressure as well, it takes good care of itself.

Going to dinner tonight with K's friend's family. I'm looking forward to 'The Fish House' restaurant, I know it's good.

News

Sex files 2007 - the most stimulating health stories
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071224/year_review_sex_071223/20071228?hub=TopStories

Calgary to be Canada's first trans fat free city
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071228/trans_calgary_071228/20071228?hub=TopStories

Netscape ends 13 year run in February
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071228/netscape_end_071228/20071228?hub=SciTech

Mall day care warning - is your child safe?
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_18075.aspx

Tennis camp continued

L was able to get a credit for the cost of the remainder of the camp, so she'll use it to book future lessons. All's well that ends well.

I made roasted broccoli today in the oven, it was really good. Just like roasting potatoes really. You put a bit of olive oil, salt, pepper and bake at 400F for about 15 minutes. I also put sliced onions and zucchini chunks on the tray.


News

Business suit you wash in the shower available next year
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17998.aspx

The dark side of booming TV sales
http://ctv2.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071227.wbiz_deadtvs28/business/Business/businessBN/ctv-business

Tennis camp

It's snowing outside, it's so pretty (winter wonderland). We haven't had to shovel in over a week. Having a late start today, I should go and get some groceries. The New Year is quickly approaching. The kids went to a tennis camp today and L doesn't like it, it's boring or something. They're going to try to get a refund for next week, they signed up today. L and I had a big argument about this camp as I felt these short holidays were a time to relax and regroup. This camp was something she HAD to do, as a lover of tennis. We agreed on the camp because it's good healthy exercise, and most kids her age are demanding expensive designer clothes and electronics instead. She's a good kid. I was expecting them to come home all excited about how great it was. K probably had a good time, but is happy to just stay home and relax.

We did start sorting out L's clothes closet. It's a jungle in there. We found some stuff to donate. Didn't realize she had so many purses. They take up a lot of room.

Nalgene water bottles

We had a busy Christmas with a couple of late nights so we're tired and overfed. Today we're eating leftovers.

My kids have been using Nalgene water bottles, especially L. Now I just read they may be unsafe. Now what? I'm not a glass lover, as it's so fragile.

M went to the gym, he says the local mall is packed, that Best Buy has a long lineup outside. Good thing it's a mild day. I decided to go for a walk with all the dog walkers.

News

Polycarbonate bottles raise questions
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071225/bpa_bottles_071225/20071225?hub=Health

Casual blogging providing income for some
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071226/blogging_ads_071226/20071226?hub=SciTech

Computer whiz changing the world of charity
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071225/online_charity_071225/20071225?hub=SciTech

Acts of kindness can improve your mental health
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071226/kindness_mentalhealth_071226/20071226?hub=Health

Honey makes a comeback as natural antibiotic
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071226/honey_medicinal_071226/20071226?hub=Health

Holiday shockers and swaps

News

25,000 lottery ticket turns out to be a nasty trick
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17961.aspx

Man pays for $25,000 car using spare change
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17962.aspx

U.S. study probes racial trends in Facebook users
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071224/facebook_study_071224/20071224?hub=TopStories

Hungry girl's holiday shockers and swaps
http://food.yahoo.com/blog/hungrygirl/14872/hungry-girl-s-holiday-shockers-and-swaps

Portion Control

A friend said she was leafing through a recent 'Harlequin Blaze Blush' romance novel and they don't get married in the end! Times have changed.

We had a nice dinner with some friends last night and L ended up sleeping over at their house. She's at the age where she needs to spend a lot of time with her peers. K is different and enjoys just being at home for now.

We have so much chocolate in the house and the past few days it's been difficult maintaining the sensible 'portion control' lifestyle, especially the 'grains' and 'fat' portions. Oh, the joys of the holiday season. L made some lovely sugar cookies that tempt me every time I walk by them.

I watched a Paula Abdul biography on TV today. It was a good show, she is amazingly talented and has been through a lot.

The winter solstice passed on Saturday, so from that point, the days have started getting longer. That's a cheery thought. My birthday is June 21, usually the longest day of the year, the summer solstice.

News

Chinese police dogs may teach pandas to fight
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071222/sc_nm/china_pandas_dog_dc_1

Queen St. debit scam milks holiday shoppers
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17940.aspx

Patients use BlackBerrys to send health reports
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071223/health_report_071225/20071223?hub=Health

drum lesson

Trying to stay out of the malls until after Christmas, it's hard, there's always something you need/want.

L went to a drum lesson after a couple of months, it's hard to connect with the teacher. We're playing it by ear whether she continues or not.

News



New levies proposed for Ipods and memory cards

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071221/copyright_act_071221/20071222?hub=TopStories#commentSection



Don't stress seeking holiday perfection

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071218/holiday_stress_071218/20071222?hub=TopStories



City hills come alive with the sound of skiing

http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17919.aspx



Swanky hotel becomes food bank for a day

http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17907.aspx

Hostess Gifts

Found some wonderful Christmas planters at Costco for hostess gifts. I also got some vitamin D supplements so we can start taking them. The Canadian Cancer society is recommending 1000 iu daily dose for adults. Apparently daily multivitamins contain about 400 iu of vitamin D, so I'm letting the kids take the 400 iu size. Health Canada says it has to do more studies before it changes the existing 200 iu daily guidelines, but I guess we're getting an early start. Anything below 1000 iu is probably non-toxic. It seems a glass of fortified milk will give you 100iu of vitamin D.

I learned that an intensive care nurse makes around $40,000 a year. It sounds low considering
they do a lot of study/training for the job.

L attended her friend's violin concert last night after her tennis lesson. She said her friend looked so beautiful all dressed up on stage. It was great that a couple of friends could make it to see her perform. K was all candied out from a class party. At least 2 of the kids' teachers really liked the bead scarves we gave some of them. I was considering giving one teacher a gas card, then I found out after that he doesn't drive!


News

Foster care better for IQ than orphanages
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071221/child_care_071221/20071221?hub=Health

Principal moves desk outside after losing bet to students
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17882.aspx

Power outage

We have a power outage at home so I'm at the library for half an hour, think I'm addicted? Luckily it's not so cold today, but everything needs electricity, even our pencil sharpener.
I couldn't cook or do the laundry, not even make a cup of tea. Had to have a cold lunch. We take a lot for granted.

Well, the power came back and now I have another shock. We just found out some good friends of ours are getting a divorce. They have 3 kids under 10 years old, it appears the wife met another man. Stuff like this makes you think about life and what's important.


News

Medical myths that even doctors believe
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071219/medical_myths_071219/20071220?hub=TopStories

First trans fat report offers mixed results
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071219/medical_myths_071219/20071220?hub=TopStories

Adopted son reunites with birth mother for Christmas
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17851.aspx

Vitamin D

A lot of the regulars showed up at this morning's aerobics class. The instructor did a surprise Christmas number at the end of class for us, so we felt special. One of my friends was telling me that she and her husband are off on a 5-week trip to Hong Kong, Thailand and Vietnam in early January. They are retired and she is very adventurous. She did say they are going to 'wing it' for most of the trip.

It's so slushy and mild outside.

It seems we have to start taking vitamin D tablets now according to the latest news. We already take omega-3 tablets.

News

Skin colour linked to Vitamin D deficiency
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071218/vitamin_071218/20071218?hub=Health

Plastic bottle danger warning
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17803.aspx

Green tea may cut prostate cancer risk
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071219/greentea_prostatecancer_071219/20071219?hub=Health

Facebook 'is' is no longer
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071219/ap_on_hi_te/techbit_facebook_is_2

Toronto's smallest house up for sale
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17815.aspx

Gene engineering corrects Fragile X in mice
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071219/sc_nm/retardation_mice_dc_3

Moving in slow motion

I seem to be moving in slow motion today, haven't got everything done that I wanted. At least I'm feeling very energetic for some reason, it beats that usual tired feeling.

Got a big pile of mail this evening and that is the sort of thing I have to attend to right away. We got a card from the car salesman that sold us a car at the end of the summer. But I threw it out as we were not happy with the deal we ended up with, in hindsight. We'd never deal with them again.

Roasted a chicken for dinner and decided to roast some sweet potato and potato chunks with it. The house smells good. M went to dinner with a couple of old university buddies that happen to live in our neighbourhood, he was looking forward to that.

Have a dinner invitation on Saturday and am trying to decide what to take for a hostess gift as it's so close to Christmas and they are nice friends.

It's time to start getting our passports renewed, at the moment K and I have pimples on our faces so we'll wait...

Blue Rodeo is a Canadian country rock band . This is their song 'Bulletproof', I really like it.



News

Got fleas? Get the vacuum

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071218/sc_nm/fleas_vacuum_dc_2

Christmas card arrives 93 years late

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071215/ap_on_fe_st/odd_long_lost_card

'Smart' tires can warn of impending flat

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071218/tc_nm/tires_smart_dc_2

Scientists trace the roots of feeling cold
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071218/sc_nm/neurons_cold_dc_2

Cellphone spending surpasses land lines in U.S.
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071218/cell_spending_071218/20071218?hub=SciTech

Leaky boots

I read in a magazine that IKEA is helping the environment by selling re-usable $1 shopping bags and have started to charge 15 cents for the toss away ones. I'll have to remember that next time I go there.

It is really slushy outside, not the day you want to be out in leaky boots. I have to say that Canadians love their winter, we expect snow and it is dealt with very efficiently. I'm not really sore after all that shovelling, regular exercise pays off!

K had his orthodontist checkup this evening. He goes back in 10 weeks to have a full tightening, which will hurt. He took his teacher gifts in today. L has gifts for a couple of her favourite teachers too.

L received an outstanding report card today (as usual), calls for a celebration!

News

Googling oneself is more popular
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071217/google_study_071217/20071217?hub=SciTech

Cancer to kill 7.6 million worldwide in 2007
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071217/global_cancer_071217/20071217?hub=TopStories

Want to cut down on housework? Get a raise.
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17732.aspx

Chimps and college students as good at mental math
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071218/sc_nm/chimps_math_dc_1

Major microwave popcorn makers replace controversial chemical
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17766.aspx

Facebook

My sister just joined Facebook and loves it. It's a social networking site that seems to be really catching on. Sort of like blogging, I guess.

Some friends dropped by last night, they were delivering baked goods to all their friends. L made soft Mississipi Mud Cookies ( http://www.recipezaar.com/257028 ) which turned out quite nicely and we had them with cups of tea. K had 2 of them.

I did about an hour of exhausting shovelling this morning.

M did another hour of shovelling this afternoon. The kids went tobogganing and had a fabulous time apparently. They came back for sunglasses as the snow was spitting in their faces. I may go out again later if the snow plough comes by, it usually shoves a mound of snow on the driveway.

I'm charging the camcorder battery as K has a music concert this week, and the battery should still be good for Christmas morning. We haven't used it for months. It's good that the storm happened on a Sunday and at the same time we can get caught up on the chores and little things, being stuck at home.




News

1 in 4 Canadians on Facebook
http://www.thestar.com/article/284017

'Crippling' storm hits Ontario
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071216/sunday_storm_071216/20071216?hub=TopStories

Fancy dim sum

Woke up early and went for a walk with a friend. It was cold, but good exercise as we braved the slippery sidewalks. Then we all went to eat chinese dim sum at a new place. It was more expensive, but the dishes were very fresh tasting and they used pretty porcelain dishes and real tablecloths instead of plastic. The chopsticks were mounted on chopstick holders and there were separate coloured chopsticks for serving.

We checked out the newly renovated town library that opened today. The mayor was there along with a TV crew. It's nice and big, filled with new books and there were lots of people. We caught a clown juggling act and got some free 2008 magnetic calendar/memo pads with markers. They also had free cookies, hot chocolate and popcorn.

On the way home, we saw a poor guy on the sidewalk hired to wave store advertising near the mall. There was a 'Santa' holding a Christmas tree and waving further down the road, near a garden store. Now we're all tired, likely from eating too much dim sum. I usually try to stay away from the fried stuff, but everything (like the spring rolls) was so hot and freshly made. We exchanged gifts with my girlfriend and it got us into the Christmas spirit.

K has to study for a big music test. L has lots of homework and M is recovering from all the recent travelling. We filled up our gas tanks and got some milk, preparing for the big storm.
I kind of like shovelling the fresh snow and it's great exercise. Maybe if we go out every couple of hours it'll be easier. (-:

I found this video at http://allthatanda.com/, great commercial, so romantic.




News

Google building wiki-replacement
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071214/google_encyclopedia_071214/20071214?hub=SciTech

Selfless life

Another pending snowstorm to arrive late Saturday. Changed plans to see an old girlfriend from Sunday to Saturday. Maybe we can go to the opening of a fabulous library renovation in the area. Apparently you can even play Wii games there. They want to make the place more appealing to teenagers (vending machines, large screen TV, etc.) I notice the town has a new by-law against idling your car for more than 3 minutes. That's a good thing.

I notice the January events are starting to come up, before you know it, the calendar will be full again. We live in a stressful age, (especially us introverts (-:). I've already pencilled in 3 events.
Have to get the kids to sign the teacher gift cards and finalize all the gifts, gift wrapping and gift distribution this coming week. There's always last minute stuff to get. I realize I shop for, wrap and distribute so many gifts at this time of year, make sure no one is forgotten and ironically I may get 1 or 2 back in return. The selfless life of a woman and mother that I lead!

Well, I'm off to check the mailbox, it's fun seeing what arrives this time of year.

News

Hunt for grinch writing obscene 'Santa' letters through Canada Post
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17683.aspx

Some good snow shovelling tips
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17693.aspx

Are the holidays putting your heart at risk?
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17692.aspx

Common kitchen tool could pose safety hazard
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17691.aspx

Smoking increases diabetes risk
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17630.aspx

About 1 in 5 IBM employees now in India
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071214/ap_on_hi_te/ibm_employees_2

Stem cell patch may fix damaged hearts

Caught a low impact exercise class at the gym this morning and quickly got the cleaning chores done at home, so I have time to blog! We're having braised pork chops for dinner tonight. M is away for a few days on business. It seems to be 23C where he is, lucky him. We're having a bit of snow and L has tennis lessons after school. Hope we're not stuck in too much traffic this evening. Our driveway is always extra icy because the neighbour's drainpipe runs down into our part of the sidewalk.

Last night we made a bad decision and got stuck in the McDonald's drive-thru lineup, thinking the kids could have a quick dinner that they love with minimal cleanup after. I was tired too. Well, it was only about 10 minutes, but it seems easier to just whip something up at home and certainly better for the environment (so many cars idling).

Anyway, lots of interesting news today, enjoy...

News

Japanese eel wishes you an electric Christmas
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071213/tc_nm/japan_christmas_eel_tech_dc_1

Stem cell patch may fix damaged hearts
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071213/sc_nm/stemcells_heart_dc_1

Japanese scientists develop fearless mouse
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071213/ap_on_sc/japan_fearless_mouse_8

Town desperate for a doctor makes unique offer
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071212/bragg_doctor_071212/20071212?hub=Health

Promenade mall robber makes daring but clean getaway - unbelievable stuff happening in the city
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17656.aspx

Violence near our local mall

Yesterday morning, I caught an interview with former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Cretien on a popular local radio station. He seemed at ease and had a good rapport with the hosts, just 9 weeks after quadruple bypass surgery. They talked about his new autobiography and he was taking pictures and signing autographs at the radio station afterwards. Interesting when asked which of the world leaders he liked best...he named Bill Clinton and Jacques Chirac (France). He said Bill was easy going and Hillary was more serious, a highly intelligent lady.

I saw this sweet potato bundt cake being made on foodtv and fully intend to try it.
http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_35933,00.html

News

Energy source of Northern Lights found
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071211/ap_on_sc/northern_lights

Violence near our local mall - I think the city is getting too large and unmanageable
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17607.aspx

Naked man tricked into going to wrong address
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17612.aspx

Boy writes book before losing cancer battle

K shovelled the driveway this evening, first time! Usually he just plays in the snow while we do it. He actually did a good job, I have a new man in the house! We had the threat of freezing rain, but luckily the temperature went high enough and it was just rain on top of the morning snow this evening.

Our financial advisor mailed us a Christmas CD, the proceeds of which go to the children of prisoners. (http://www.prisonfellowship.ca/) I've never heard of that organization before, I guess he's putting his money to good use.

News

Boy writes book before losing cancer battle
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071211/Collins_cancer_071211/20071211?hub=TopStories

Teen dies after being choked in her own home - clash of cultures
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17567.aspx

Man trapped in public washroom for 4 days
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17571.aspx

Dog rescuer located
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17557.aspx

No stress Christmas shopping
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17558.aspx

Dec 10th the most stressful day of the year

Exercise class was crowded today as usual. Think I have to go back to doing more treadmill. I almost stepped on a lady in the class and after that, I couldn't seem to find a safe spot. I've seen ladies fighting, likely about encroaching on each other's space.

Can't help reading the covers of the gossip magazines at the grocery checkout. But the stuff they put...it's getting a bit outrageous, those poor stars.

It's spaghetti and meat sauce for dinner tonight, probably the easiest meal I can make.

News

Dec 10th the most stressful day of the year
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17551.aspx

'Money is no object' gifts
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17536.aspx

How BRCA1 gene causes breast cancer
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071210/breast_cancer_071210/20071210?hub=Health

Products with good bacteria get popular
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071210/bacteria_good_071210/20071210?hub=Health

Some cities pushing back against drive thrus

Woke up with a headache which improved throughout the day, luckily. We did some shopping while L was at tennis. K wants yet another expensive remote control type of car for Christmas, so we had a look at it in ToysRus. This one apparently can drive over the snow. Their video game prices are quite competitive and they have a great selection. After that we met some friends at 'Baton Rouge' restaurant where we exchanged gifts. It was our first time at Baton Rouge, it's sort of like a 'Keg' restaurant, maybe more expensive. It was pretty busy. I wouldn't go there again, by the way.

Well, I missed 'Amazing Race' although we taped it. Hopefully I can watch it soon, it seems to be bedtime. I find it really hard to catch up on video tapes, it's easier to catch it 'live'.

News

Breakfast Television holiday CD almost sold out - I think this is the number one morning TV show in Toronto
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17489.aspx

Wife of missing canoeist arrested
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071209/missing_canoeist_071209/20071209?hub=TopStories

Some cities pushing back against drive thrus
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071209/drive_thrus_071209/20071209?hub=TopStories

Amazing dog rescue

I walked to church today despite having a headache. Must be that time of the month. It's a nice evening. There was an all girl choir today including the pianist and the conductor, where are all the boys? Got our collection envelopes for 2008. It's Advent now, the season preceding Christmas. The priest wears dark purple and an advent wreath is on display with four candles representing the 4 Sundays before Christmas (of which 2 were lit today).

I made a delicious sweet potato and kidney bean chili today from Longo supermarket's magazine. We had it with rice. M and K went to get Swiss Chalet chicken and fries for dinner.

News

Missing canoeist facing 2 charges
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071208/darwin_case_071208/20071208?hub=World

Woman dies after clothing catches fire in kitchen
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17494.aspx

Amazing dog rescue 3 weeks in the making
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17488.aspx

Scientists cure mice with sickle cell

Went for a walk today, I've missed it. These days you don't see many pleasure walkers, mostly people with their dogs that have to be out.

L is still sick with her virus, but seems to be improving. Hopefully we don't all get it. I just treated K for a tiny wart on his finger, he is prone to them, but it's been years since he had one. These new wart compounds freeze the spot in 20 seconds and hopefully one treatment will be enough. He's very brave with this sort of stuff, spunky kid.

My favourite ice cream is Baskin-Robbins 'Maui brownie madness'. I usually have a kid size scoop on a sugar cone and even better, it's yogurt ice cream (less fat). I had one yesterday and I wish I could have another one right now! Well, M is supposed to bring us back some See's candy tonight, so that is something to look forward to.

A friend of ours is planning a surprise birthday party for her husband. It's funny, she opened a new email id in her maiden name to co-ordinate the replies and maintain anonymity. Hope I'm not the one to inadvertently let the cat out of the bag.

News

Studies show how fruits and veggies reduce cancer
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071207/sc_nm/cancer_food_dc_2

Online coupons can save but beware of scammers
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17424.aspx

Widow leaves Chinese restaurant owners 21M
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071207/widow_restaurant_071207/20071207?hub=TopStories

Scientists cure mice with sickle cell
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071207/sickle_cell_071207/20071207?hub=Health

Canoeist sons shun their parents
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17467.aspx

The do's and don'ts of re-gifting

News

The do's and don'ts of re-gifting
http://news.yahoo.com/s/fool/20071206/bs_fool_fool/119695626106

Health reports affect Canadians' lifestyles
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071206/health_news_071206/20071206?hub=TopStories

Wife admits she was in Panama with 'dead' husband - since I seem to be following this story
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071205/uk_canoeist_071206/20071206?hub=World

Automated computer calls get couch potatoes moving
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071206/computer_calls_071206/20071206?hub=Health

IBM says breakthrough heralds supercomputer on chip
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071206/tc_nm/ibm_chip_supercomputing_dc_2

Researchers use new stem cell method to treat mice
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071206/sc_nm/stemcells_mice_dc_1

Sooo cold today

It's sooo cold today. My aerobics instructor says someone gave her these rice krispie squares that they baked with lots of mars bars and tons of butter. Hope I never find the recipe. L is home sick today with some kind of virus.

I didn't mention I saw the movie 'Enchanted' on the weekend and loved it, classic Disney, nothing to do with reality. K and another little boy didn't like it, L and her friends thought it was 'nice', 'ok'.

I was pumping air into my tires yesterday and realized you can get free air just by asking the attendant. The last time I put 50 cents into the machine. My car tells me when it needs air. I think most people don't realize their car tires need air pretty regularly. Our neighbour's tire looked almost flat the other day, we had to mention it to her.

News

Moonstruck flock to Arizona light collector
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071205/sc_nm/moonbeams_dc_2

Fitness, not low body fat key to a long life
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071204/fitness_071204/20071205?hub=Health

Toxic toys guide released ahead of the holidays
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071205/toxic_toys_071205/20071205?hub=TopStories

Police arrest canoeist missing for 5 years
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17381.aspx

More shovelling!

Woke up to more snow this morning. As much as last time, but it was light and powdery instead of wet and heavy, so shovelling wasn't too bad, especially since M is away on business this week.
So I counted that as my exercise and didn't bother going to the gym.

Well, time to run some errands (bank, post office, groceries). Making chicken for dinner tonight.

News

1 in 5 people in Canada now foreign born
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071204/census_main_071204/20071204?hub=TopStories

Holidays bring the heart attack season
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071204/holidays_attack_07120/20071204?hub=TopStories

A salt assault: too much of a good thing
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17334.aspx

Another snow day today

Kids are home on another snow day today. L's school is closed so we're keeping K home as well. I just don't think it's worth going out when they say things might freeze up and ice over. The ice is the worst thing, there's not much you can do if your car is trapped on ice except slide. Slushy snow is not a problem if you just take your time.

Yesterday's shovelling was quite a workout, it took M and me at least an hour. But I was glad for the exercise. We have a snow blower, but hardly use it. K made himself a little hill in a snow bank so he could slide down it.

News

Try honey to calm children's coughs
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071203/honey_study_07123/20071203?hub=Health

Mummified dinosaur reveals surprises
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071203/sc_nm/dinosaur_mummy_dc_1

Scientists use DNA 'decoy' to fight superbugs
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071203/sc_nm/superbugs_genes_dc_1

Cancer cells softer than healthy cells
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071202/sc_nm/cancer_cells_dc_1

Young chimp beats college student in memory tasks
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071203/smart_chimps_07123/20071203?hub=TopStories

Wedding ring deflects bullet
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17315.aspx

Man shows up 5 years after canoe smashed, presumed drowned
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17320.aspx

10 cm of snow

We woke up to about 10 cm of snow this morning. K is looking forward to playing in it. Our Christmas tree is up and he's already turned the lights on. My cards are ready to mail. The thing that freaks me out is entertaining, hopefully we can keep that to a minimum. Everyone else in the house is so social. I think the problem is that I'm the one who has to pull everything together. I'm fine with cooking, but I stress when it's for entertaining. Like, what if the dish fails? So I usually do the 'tried and true', same old stuff that works. Ironically, they have wonderful seasonal magazines out with some interesting recipes, like the latest LCBO and Longos magazines.

Here is a 'no fuss' trout recipe that we all like. I just put about a teaspoon of lemon pepper and a bit of dried tarragon on each trout fillet then I bake them on parchment paper at 350F for 20 minutes. It works with salmon fillets and probably other types of fish too.

Colleague, not cell phone killed man

News

Bank's 1M grant lures researcher back to Canada - in another life, this is the kind job I would've wanted to have
http://www.thestar.com/article/281605

Police: Colleague, not cell phone, killed man
http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/asiapcf/11/30/cell.phone.ap/index.html?iref=newssearch