My sister in California is renovating her house too, they will almost double their living space it looks like, as they live in a small house at the moment. She is going through similar pains, if not worse as they are doing as much of the work as they can themselves. They also had the big lumber truck do a delivery and it seems like deciding on all the fixtures is a nightmare, between arguing with her husband, and getting advice from all the neighbours who have done their renovations.
L ended up doing an eyebrow 'threading' yesterday at the spa. She reports it being extremely painful, but it looks really nice and sophisticated.
I walked over to church yesterday, I enjoyed listening to the choir, they sang some great songs. The church is trying to start up a fund raising committee as they are in debt.
Kyle passed his Grade 5 RCM piano exam! He didn't get honours or anything, but a pass is a pass. He seriously wants to quit now, and I may agree with him, he's done his time. He's become quite good at tennis over the summer, and that was just for fun. Maybe he's not the type of person who thrives under pressure (just like his mom).
Well, we're off to Canada's Wonderland to bond with family. It's a great day for it.
News
Halifax coffee shop a penny-free zone
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
She Did It
L passed her National Lifesaving Society (NLS) Lifeguard course, she's ecstatic. Now she's a lifeguard. The qualification is good for 2 years.
A couple of electricians are here trying to get most of the wiring done today. We gave the contractor our first payment, we pay in weekly installments until the end of the job. Interestingly, his fees are fixed and won't change, but we have to pay for materials like tile and bathroom fixtures as those costs are variable. He said the drywall period is time consuming and you don't see much progress during this phase when they're doing all the taping and several coats of whatever.
It's a gorgeous day, time to head out on our errands.
News
Listeriosis Outbreak: Updated Recalled Products List
Organic Sugar Has No Calories - And A Health Canada Warning
New Rules For Ear Health
A couple of electricians are here trying to get most of the wiring done today. We gave the contractor our first payment, we pay in weekly installments until the end of the job. Interestingly, his fees are fixed and won't change, but we have to pay for materials like tile and bathroom fixtures as those costs are variable. He said the drywall period is time consuming and you don't see much progress during this phase when they're doing all the taping and several coats of whatever.
It's a gorgeous day, time to head out on our errands.
News
Listeriosis Outbreak: Updated Recalled Products List
Organic Sugar Has No Calories - And A Health Canada Warning
New Rules For Ear Health
Friday, August 29, 2008
No Pressure
I heard on the radio that it's Michael Jackson's 50th birthday today.
It's the final long weekend of the summer, the Labour Day weekend. It's soggy and rainy today, but a sunny, warm forecast ahead, good for the cottage people.
L has an eyebrow waxing appointment at the spa tomorrow, she had it done once before earlier in the summer and decided she had to have it done again before school starts. We're planning to go to Canada's Wonderland with my mom, sister and the cousins on Sunday. There is a new 'Behemoth' ride that K is stressing about because his cousin is trying to talk him into it. He said it's 4 times bigger than the usual ones he goes on and that's a big deal. I told him 'no pressure'.
News
Why it's so hard to swat a fly
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Scientists find ancient lost settlements in Amazon
Happier really does mean healthier, researchers say
It's the final long weekend of the summer, the Labour Day weekend. It's soggy and rainy today, but a sunny, warm forecast ahead, good for the cottage people.
L has an eyebrow waxing appointment at the spa tomorrow, she had it done once before earlier in the summer and decided she had to have it done again before school starts. We're planning to go to Canada's Wonderland with my mom, sister and the cousins on Sunday. There is a new 'Behemoth' ride that K is stressing about because his cousin is trying to talk him into it. He said it's 4 times bigger than the usual ones he goes on and that's a big deal. I told him 'no pressure'.
News
Why it's so hard to swat a fly
Companies Making Small Fortunes Turning Deceased Relatives Into Diamonds
Scientists find ancient lost settlements in Amazon
Happier really does mean healthier, researchers say
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Basement stress
L is enjoying her lifeguard course. It sounds challenging and it's fun with a group of about 16 kids. Let's hope most of them make the grade.
K is having a friend over for the afternoon, they'll probably play Wii games.
I'm stressing about the basement, hope they get all the framing right. It does look good so far, but all it takes is a slight misunderstanding to go off track. The walls have come in about 12 inches due to all the pipes they have to cover, we'll have a bit less space than what I imagined.
I'm doing breaded pork loin chops today. I made some shrimp fried rice last night, I usually use ham in it, but there is a recall on a lot of deli meat due a listeriosis outbreak in the area.
News
Economic disparities kill 'on grand scale:' WHO
Style blooms online - Slick, low-budget magazines mimic and sometimes out-design the glossies
Drivers Warned: Yonge And Dundas To Become First T.O. 'Pedestrian Scramble' Site On Thursday
Mystery Chinese iPhone worker becomes Internet star
Researchers turn living cells into insulin-makers
K is having a friend over for the afternoon, they'll probably play Wii games.
I'm stressing about the basement, hope they get all the framing right. It does look good so far, but all it takes is a slight misunderstanding to go off track. The walls have come in about 12 inches due to all the pipes they have to cover, we'll have a bit less space than what I imagined.
I'm doing breaded pork loin chops today. I made some shrimp fried rice last night, I usually use ham in it, but there is a recall on a lot of deli meat due a listeriosis outbreak in the area.
News
Economic disparities kill 'on grand scale:' WHO
Style blooms online - Slick, low-budget magazines mimic and sometimes out-design the glossies
Drivers Warned: Yonge And Dundas To Become First T.O. 'Pedestrian Scramble' Site On Thursday
Mystery Chinese iPhone worker becomes Internet star
Researchers turn living cells into insulin-makers
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Mammogram
I'm watering the lawn this morning, it takes awhile as I don't have a sprinkler system. It's a gorgeous day and the mosquitos are biting in spite of it.
I couldn't help but notice this morning that the young construction worker at my house has a gorgeous physique (talk about stereotyping), all the muscles in the right place, yet slim. Okay, the kid could be my son, but I'm not blind! He's a very nice young man, with lots of manners. M's sister was also commenting that K has changed from a boy into a young man all of a sudden. He's grown about 5 centimetres in the past 4 months and seems to be more fashion conscious.
The bad news is that one of my sisters found a lesion in her breast during a recent mammogram, so they have to do a biopsy. It's worrying.
News
Music videos being reinvented on the web
Health Canada OKs shingles vaccine for older patients
Chinese Medicine Claims To Be Able To 'Cure' Or Reduce Hay Fever
I couldn't help but notice this morning that the young construction worker at my house has a gorgeous physique (talk about stereotyping), all the muscles in the right place, yet slim. Okay, the kid could be my son, but I'm not blind! He's a very nice young man, with lots of manners. M's sister was also commenting that K has changed from a boy into a young man all of a sudden. He's grown about 5 centimetres in the past 4 months and seems to be more fashion conscious.
The bad news is that one of my sisters found a lesion in her breast during a recent mammogram, so they have to do a biopsy. It's worrying.
News
Music videos being reinvented on the web
Health Canada OKs shingles vaccine for older patients
Chinese Medicine Claims To Be Able To 'Cure' Or Reduce Hay Fever
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Counterfeit $5
Here are those $5 bills I've been talking about. You can click on the photos to enlarge.
The top bill in the picture is fake, the bottom one is real. Notice the silver strip on the left side and the '5' on the strip is in dark print.
This is the real bill with the silver strip on the left
This is the fake bill, no silver strip
The top bill in the picture is fake, the bottom one is real. Notice the silver strip on the left side and the '5' on the strip is in dark print.
This is the real bill with the silver strip on the left
This is the fake bill, no silver strip
No Door
Note that as of Mar 17, 2009 I discovered the 'fake $5' is actually just an older note.
The past few mornings have been cooler, requiring a sweater.
They started putting up a wall in a part of the basement where there should have been an opening. I think it was a misunderstanding. I had mentioned I didn't want a door there, meaning just a doorway. But 'no door' on a diagram can mean 'continue the wall'! The guys said they don't mind us checking up on them, the sooner a problem is found, the better.
I'm taking my mom for a dental appointment today. L survived her first day of the lifeguard course. She said you have to be strong as you have to lift a lot of bricks out of the water. One kid was sent home. The instructor is very tough apparently. Oh, L found another fake $5 in a handbag that she hadn't unpacked for 2 years. So these fake bills have been around for awhile. I think I'll upload some pictures to try to show the more obvious differences.
Hopefully M will barbecue the strip loin steaks I have marinating for dinner. I also have corn on the cob. I realize I love coffee with cream in it, but try to stick to 1 percent milk.
News
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Fingers are walking online to the Yellow Pages
The past few mornings have been cooler, requiring a sweater.
They started putting up a wall in a part of the basement where there should have been an opening. I think it was a misunderstanding. I had mentioned I didn't want a door there, meaning just a doorway. But 'no door' on a diagram can mean 'continue the wall'! The guys said they don't mind us checking up on them, the sooner a problem is found, the better.
I'm taking my mom for a dental appointment today. L survived her first day of the lifeguard course. She said you have to be strong as you have to lift a lot of bricks out of the water. One kid was sent home. The instructor is very tough apparently. Oh, L found another fake $5 in a handbag that she hadn't unpacked for 2 years. So these fake bills have been around for awhile. I think I'll upload some pictures to try to show the more obvious differences.
Hopefully M will barbecue the strip loin steaks I have marinating for dinner. I also have corn on the cob. I realize I love coffee with cream in it, but try to stick to 1 percent milk.
News
Too much folic acid may trigger cancer
Cows seem to know which way is north
Monkeys reward friends and relatives
Facebook cuts off Scrabulous after legal complaint
More Canadian men doing grocery shopping: study
Fingers are walking online to the Yellow Pages
Monday, August 25, 2008
Sauble Beach continued
Here's that troublesome Sauble Beach video that seems to be working now. You wouldn't believe the crowds as the day wears on.
Sauble Beach 2008
We had a great time at Sauble Beach this past weekend. Didn't manage to capture a good sunset. It was cloudy one evening and storming the next. Over the years the beach has become quite crowded with tourists. You want to go for early morning or evening walks if you like it quiet. I was hoping to include a video of the beach, but it's not working unfortunately.
K thought his piano exam went well this past Friday. He said L's ear training and scales were much harder than the examiner's.
We have a long weekend coming up and the kids are back at school next Tuesday September 2.
L is taking a lifeguarding course all this week. We heard it's really difficult, but she thought it wouldn't hurt to try although she hasn't been in regular swim training for awhile.
News
Human exoskeleton suit helps paralyzed people walk
Research aims to put tongues in control of devices
Hallmark Starts Offering Same-Sex Wedding Cards
K thought his piano exam went well this past Friday. He said L's ear training and scales were much harder than the examiner's.
We have a long weekend coming up and the kids are back at school next Tuesday September 2.
L is taking a lifeguarding course all this week. We heard it's really difficult, but she thought it wouldn't hurt to try although she hasn't been in regular swim training for awhile.
News
Human exoskeleton suit helps paralyzed people walk
Research aims to put tongues in control of devices
Hallmark Starts Offering Same-Sex Wedding Cards
Thursday, August 21, 2008
G1 licence
Well, L took her G1 written driving test yesterday and had a perfect score. It takes 20-24 months to get your driver's licence in Ontario now under the new Graduated Licensing system. If she passes a ministry approved driving course, she can take the G1 road test within 8 months, otherwise it's a 12 month wait. If she passes the G1 road test, she gets a G2 licence and becomes eligible to take the G2 road test in another 12 months and become a fully licensed driver.
The contractor arrived almost on time this morning with a helper. He said he's never worked in such a clean, empty basement before. We decided to give the contractor the house key, they will need it, as they are in and out getting supplies, etc.
K's piano exam is tomorrow morning, it's crunch time. We'll leave right after to Sauble Beach for the weekend. It's an extended family weekend at M's sister's cottage, so I won't post again until Monday. They have amazing sunsets up there (as they do in Wasaga Beach) as the beaches face west.
News
Site-building course untangles the Web Growing number of seniors logging on to classes designed to help beginners set up own website
Happily ever after
It was a dark and stormy night in the film industry – the story of one man's satisfying career change
Science grad taking a bite out of world hunger
The contractor arrived almost on time this morning with a helper. He said he's never worked in such a clean, empty basement before. We decided to give the contractor the house key, they will need it, as they are in and out getting supplies, etc.
K's piano exam is tomorrow morning, it's crunch time. We'll leave right after to Sauble Beach for the weekend. It's an extended family weekend at M's sister's cottage, so I won't post again until Monday. They have amazing sunsets up there (as they do in Wasaga Beach) as the beaches face west.
News
Site-building course untangles the Web Growing number of seniors logging on to classes designed to help beginners set up own website
Happily ever after
It was a dark and stormy night in the film industry – the story of one man's satisfying career change
Science grad taking a bite out of world hunger
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
The lumber truck
So this huge lumber truck pulls up in our driveway early this morning. Then the driver gets out and pushes some buttons at the back of the truck and this lever hoists our lumber high into the air and deposits it onto the side yard in just a few minutes. All the neighbours stopped what they were doing to watch. The plan is use a basement window to load the lumber into the house.
A lot of people at the gym paused to watch the Olympic men's 200M sprint this morning where Jamaica's Usain Bolt captured the gold in his flamboyant manner. M said a Jamaican girl captured a hurdles medal also. This small nation is so talented in track and field.
Heads up to Michael Phelps as well, he's a great swim ambassador.
News
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A lot of people at the gym paused to watch the Olympic men's 200M sprint this morning where Jamaica's Usain Bolt captured the gold in his flamboyant manner. M said a Jamaican girl captured a hurdles medal also. This small nation is so talented in track and field.
Heads up to Michael Phelps as well, he's a great swim ambassador.
News
Jamaica's 'Lightning Bolt' singes world record
Juice can wipe out effects of drugs, study finds
Trace arsenic in water may be linked with diabetes
Husband And Wife Enter Same Lottery Separately - And Both Win $350,000
8 Foods to Keep Your Brain Young and Healthy
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
'Exciting' morning
This was an 'exciting' morning for me. M and I went to see a basement that our contractor is just finishing up in the neighbourhood. We were very pleased with what we saw, and we're 'looking forward' to getting ours started on Thursday. The contract is all signed and we're good to go.
Last night M and I went to Lowes Home Improvement Warehouse (new in Canada) and found a good selection of bathroom vanities. In fact, we purchased one, along with a new dual flush toilet (like the ones in Europe), and a laundry cabinet kit.
There are a lot of little things to think about. It seems to make sense to give the contractor a key to the house for the next 8 weeks, however, we would want to make sure valuables are out of sight. How exactly do you locate and put away all your valuables? Do these include video games and their systems, laptops, I can't even think of what else we may have. M doesn't think they need a key. Well, we are going off for a long weekend to Sauble Beach on Friday!
For any Amazing Race fans, it starts up again September 28th at 8pm!
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Last night M and I went to Lowes Home Improvement Warehouse (new in Canada) and found a good selection of bathroom vanities. In fact, we purchased one, along with a new dual flush toilet (like the ones in Europe), and a laundry cabinet kit.
There are a lot of little things to think about. It seems to make sense to give the contractor a key to the house for the next 8 weeks, however, we would want to make sure valuables are out of sight. How exactly do you locate and put away all your valuables? Do these include video games and their systems, laptops, I can't even think of what else we may have. M doesn't think they need a key. Well, we are going off for a long weekend to Sauble Beach on Friday!
For any Amazing Race fans, it starts up again September 28th at 8pm!
News
Meet the new teams on 'The Amazing Race'
Don't Want To Feel Old? Don't Look At This List
Magpies are no bird-brains, mirror test shows
Today's must-have item is luxury water
Vitamin D: Who to test, how much to take
Monday, August 18, 2008
Nutmeg Side Table
Well, here's what the infamous 'nutmeg' coloured side table looks like now. M ended up finishing the job. I actually like it.
L is engrossed in 'Twilight', a young adult vampire novel, by Stephenie Meyer. It's a best seller and much-hyped by one of my sisters and some of my nieces.
News
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L is engrossed in 'Twilight', a young adult vampire novel, by Stephenie Meyer. It's a best seller and much-hyped by one of my sisters and some of my nieces.
News
Virtual storefront finds success on Facebook
Antibodies from 1918 flu still work well, study says
Madonna Turns 50
Treatable heart disorder kills hundreds of kids
Eating race is on at Food Network
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Blog Anniversary
Yes, it's today, my one year Blog Anniversary. Thanks for remembering Barbara! I know that I kept a daily diary in the early 80's for about 2 or 3 years, so I think I can keep going for awhile. The thing is, I don't know what to do with those diaries, they seem a bit too personal (revealing) to share, but I feel it wouldn't be right to throw them out. Then I keep thinking what will happen to them when I die? Hmm.
There's a Jazz Festival on Main Street this weekend. I took this short video yesterday on my afternoon walk. M went over there later that night and said it was packed. Great way to spend a Saturday night, what with the lovely weather.
And here's that infamous cupcake from SAM's club. K nagged at me to go get some more.
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There's a Jazz Festival on Main Street this weekend. I took this short video yesterday on my afternoon walk. M went over there later that night and said it was packed. Great way to spend a Saturday night, what with the lovely weather.
And here's that infamous cupcake from SAM's club. K nagged at me to go get some more.
News
Surprising superfoods offer 'bang for your buck'
The Top 5 In-Demand Majors
Guess what? Military funds mind-reading science
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Costa Rica
It's an absolutely gorgeous day today, can't wait to get outside. L went for a tennis lesson. My sister who had been in Europe this summer brought us back a huge Cadbury milk chocolate bar from London. K loves his baseball hat from classy Monaco.
My sister who lives in Florida is raving about her recent trip to Costa Rica and the huge, sweet fruit they have there. She said it's lovely there, just like Jamaica without so much of the crime. Sounds like a place to visit.
News
Health Considerations Before Your Kids Head Back To School
My sister who lives in Florida is raving about her recent trip to Costa Rica and the huge, sweet fruit they have there. She said it's lovely there, just like Jamaica without so much of the crime. Sounds like a place to visit.
News
Health Considerations Before Your Kids Head Back To School
Friday, August 15, 2008
Brussels Sprouts
The kids and I are going over to visit my mom and the cousins today. We may do some swimming if it doesn't rain. Now K has added incentive to get some piano practice done before we leave instead of the regular postponement. In fact, they are going at it now. L helps him with ear training and scales and she's decided to do a mock exam every day until the exam in a week's time. But he's complaining that she keeps running away to check on the Olympics. It's hard to get good help.
I impulsively subscribed to the Canadian Health and Lifestyle magazine that I was reading in the dentist's office yesterday. It's only $8 for the year. There are some great-looking recipes on the website and healthy at the same time, this brussels sprouts salad looks intriguing.
News
More women pursuing careers in forensic science
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Remains of 5,000-year-old cemetery found in Sahara
I impulsively subscribed to the Canadian Health and Lifestyle magazine that I was reading in the dentist's office yesterday. It's only $8 for the year. There are some great-looking recipes on the website and healthy at the same time, this brussels sprouts salad looks intriguing.
News
More women pursuing careers in forensic science
Relax for 20 minutes and call me in the morning
Remains of 5,000-year-old cemetery found in Sahara
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Much Ado About Nothing
Well, it turns out my car was ready early yesterday so L and I didn't have to walk to the doctor's. And M came home early so he could've given her a ride. Also the rain cleared up early so K was able to make his last tennis camp lesson for the season. I realize I do tend to over-think the situation!
K was at his regular dentist today for a cleaning and got a good report. Then both kids went to get their hair cut. With 2 weeks left before school starts, it's nice to get a few things done. My walk is getting a bit hazardous with all the construction going on around town. They are putting in some 'traffic calming' measures which are bumpers of interlocking stone. Wonder if they'll do more harm than good during rush hour? My good deed of the day was when this lady in her car slowed down to ask some of the construction guys if they knew the way to this facility. They were pointing her in totally the opposite direction, so I thought I'd help her out. It's great to see all the people eating outside on all the restaurant patios. I'll miss the summer.
L is busy painting our pressed wood (MDF) table. Unfortunately I had let them write on the top with indelible markers when they were little just for fun and a few coats of white paint, then a few coats of mustard yellow paint wouldn't cover it. So now we're going to try nutmeg. I didn't want to go too dark. L says 'that's it'...if this doesn't work, she's done. They're asking me how I could have let them write on the table in the first place.
News
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Scientists "listen" to plants to find water pollution
K was at his regular dentist today for a cleaning and got a good report. Then both kids went to get their hair cut. With 2 weeks left before school starts, it's nice to get a few things done. My walk is getting a bit hazardous with all the construction going on around town. They are putting in some 'traffic calming' measures which are bumpers of interlocking stone. Wonder if they'll do more harm than good during rush hour? My good deed of the day was when this lady in her car slowed down to ask some of the construction guys if they knew the way to this facility. They were pointing her in totally the opposite direction, so I thought I'd help her out. It's great to see all the people eating outside on all the restaurant patios. I'll miss the summer.
L is busy painting our pressed wood (MDF) table. Unfortunately I had let them write on the top with indelible markers when they were little just for fun and a few coats of white paint, then a few coats of mustard yellow paint wouldn't cover it. So now we're going to try nutmeg. I didn't want to go too dark. L says 'that's it'...if this doesn't work, she's done. They're asking me how I could have let them write on the table in the first place.
News
Beer goggles really do work, new research suggests
Ear infections linked to increased risk of obesity
Teens misjudge risk of injury and death, study says
Intelligent GPS devices tap away traffic
Octopuses have six "arms" and two "legs": study
Scientists "listen" to plants to find water pollution
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Rain, rain go away
My car is in the shop all day today due to a recall notice. At least there's no charge to me, but it's tough without a car for the whole day. It's also supposed to rain later on. It doesn't help that L has a doctor appointment in the late afternoon. We may end up walking there in the rain (unless there's a thunderstorm). The other possibility is that M may get home early or my car may be ready sooner than expected. Also K is having his last day of tennis camp for the season, wonder if it will get rained out?
We went to an impromptu piano concert last night. It was good for K to hear the other kids and to play in front of others. The hostess gave us some iced chocolate and vanilla muffins from Sam's Club...they are the BEST. I devoured a soft moist chocolate one, including all the icing. Their birthday cakes with whipped icing are amazing too.
News
Girls who blog: Innocent fun or potential danger?
Can Honey Help Cure Some Of Your Allergies?
Canadian math whizzes to help Africa fight AIDS
We went to an impromptu piano concert last night. It was good for K to hear the other kids and to play in front of others. The hostess gave us some iced chocolate and vanilla muffins from Sam's Club...they are the BEST. I devoured a soft moist chocolate one, including all the icing. Their birthday cakes with whipped icing are amazing too.
News
Girls who blog: Innocent fun or potential danger?
Can Honey Help Cure Some Of Your Allergies?
Canadian math whizzes to help Africa fight AIDS
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
The basement is 'empty'
Note that as of Mar 17, 2009 I discovered the 'fake $5' is actually just an older note.
Here it is guys, the 'empty' basement. Maybe I should've taken a video of it 'full'.
It's a gorgeous day today, bright, sunny and just the perfect temperature. I went for my haircut, the hairdresser had been on vacation to London, England for the past week. I'm so paranoid about getting change from my $20 bills since I got passed that counterfeit $5. The newer design bills are easier to check quickly than the older bills, you don't really want to look too 'obvious' at every cash register.
It's hamburger day today, and check out this new brownie recipe that K found on the internet. We love it and it's so simple. L just substitutes chocolate chips for the nuts as K doesn't like them with nuts.
ULTIMATE FUDGY & NUTTY BROWNIES
Fudgy brownies are made even more decadent with the addition of chocolate chips and the crunch of nuts.
Preparation time: 25 min Baking time: 25 min
Yield: 25 brownies
1/2 cup LAND O LAKES® Butter
2 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate
1 1/4 cups sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Heat oven to 350°F. Grease bottom only of 8-inch square baking pan. Set aside.
Melt butter and chocolate in 2-quart saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until smooth (4 to 7 minutes). Remove from heat.
Stir in sugar and vanilla. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add flour, baking powder and salt; mix just until all ingredients are moistened and brownie mixture is smooth. Stir in pecans.
Spread brownie mixture into prepared baking pan. Bake for 25 to 33 minutes or until brownies just begin to pull away from sides of pan. (DO NOT OVER-BAKE.) Cool completely.
TIP: To substitute unsweetened cocoa for unsweetened baking chocolate, use 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa plus 1 tablespoon butter for each ounce of unsweetened baking chocolate.
TIP: Reduce baking temperature by 25°F if using dark or nonstick baking pan.
TIP: To prepare brownies in 13x9-inch baking pan, double all ingredients. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until brownies just begin to pull away from sides of pan.
TIP: For the tenderest brownies, stir brownie mixture until smooth; do not over-mix.
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More evidence of Vitamin D benefits
Here it is guys, the 'empty' basement. Maybe I should've taken a video of it 'full'.
It's a gorgeous day today, bright, sunny and just the perfect temperature. I went for my haircut, the hairdresser had been on vacation to London, England for the past week. I'm so paranoid about getting change from my $20 bills since I got passed that counterfeit $5. The newer design bills are easier to check quickly than the older bills, you don't really want to look too 'obvious' at every cash register.
It's hamburger day today, and check out this new brownie recipe that K found on the internet. We love it and it's so simple. L just substitutes chocolate chips for the nuts as K doesn't like them with nuts.
ULTIMATE FUDGY & NUTTY BROWNIES
Fudgy brownies are made even more decadent with the addition of chocolate chips and the crunch of nuts.
Preparation time: 25 min Baking time: 25 min
Yield: 25 brownies
1/2 cup LAND O LAKES® Butter
2 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate
1 1/4 cups sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Heat oven to 350°F. Grease bottom only of 8-inch square baking pan. Set aside.
Melt butter and chocolate in 2-quart saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until smooth (4 to 7 minutes). Remove from heat.
Stir in sugar and vanilla. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add flour, baking powder and salt; mix just until all ingredients are moistened and brownie mixture is smooth. Stir in pecans.
Spread brownie mixture into prepared baking pan. Bake for 25 to 33 minutes or until brownies just begin to pull away from sides of pan. (DO NOT OVER-BAKE.) Cool completely.
TIP: To substitute unsweetened cocoa for unsweetened baking chocolate, use 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa plus 1 tablespoon butter for each ounce of unsweetened baking chocolate.
TIP: Reduce baking temperature by 25°F if using dark or nonstick baking pan.
TIP: To prepare brownies in 13x9-inch baking pan, double all ingredients. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until brownies just begin to pull away from sides of pan.
TIP: For the tenderest brownies, stir brownie mixture until smooth; do not over-mix.
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More evidence of Vitamin D benefits
Monday, August 11, 2008
Uncovering things
I'd like to watch the closing ceremony in Beijing August 24th.
Taking K to the orthodontist for another tightening of the braces. L is working today. She's going to paint a little table for me this week, so I'll get some paint and lacquer. It's made of MDF? glued wood fragments and will look good painted, maybe yellow? IKEA is doing a lot of colour furniture this year so we'll be in fashion. With all this moving stuff about you uncover things that you either give away or decide to use!
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Taking K to the orthodontist for another tightening of the braces. L is working today. She's going to paint a little table for me this week, so I'll get some paint and lacquer. It's made of MDF? glued wood fragments and will look good painted, maybe yellow? IKEA is doing a lot of colour furniture this year so we'll be in fashion. With all this moving stuff about you uncover things that you either give away or decide to use!
News
Invisibility cloak one step closer, scientists say
Uniforms can color judgment when referees see red
Beijing opening night lures 15 percent of world
Sunday, August 10, 2008
News
A massive explosion at a Toronto propane facility is huge news in the city today, check out the news story and video below. It's not under control yet.
The piano teacher came by last night and said our 'clutter' is really not that bad, implying she's seen a lot worse. I guess I'm just very visual.
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Massive evacuation follows blast in Toronto
Our online selves could live forever
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The piano teacher came by last night and said our 'clutter' is really not that bad, implying she's seen a lot worse. I guess I'm just very visual.
News
Massive evacuation follows blast in Toronto
Our online selves could live forever
Read novels, be smarter
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Good Debt, Bad Debt
I did some groceries in the rain today, I didn't see why that should stop me getting things done! Maybe I can even get my walk done in a little while. M and K made a trip to the recycling depot. I realized there is a Goodwill donation centre in the area open 7 days a week for most of the day, always something to keep in mind, especially as I stare at all the boxes in the living and dining room.
We have a busy week ahead, orthodontist, dentist, hairdresser, car maintenance...it never ends.
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We have a busy week ahead, orthodontist, dentist, hairdresser, car maintenance...it never ends.
News
Barbadians slam discovery, naming of tiny snake
Why this slump isn't like the '90s
Libraries step into the age of iPod
Good debt helps build wealth, bad debt throws it away
Friday, August 8, 2008
Overcrowded and disgusting
Did you know you should let your peaches ripen at room temperature and then put them in the refrigerator to cool. I saw the tip on a TV commercial, it makes sense.
Ok, so now the house is starting to look overcrowded and disgusting upstairs. I don't know how I can look at stacked cardboard boxes in the dining room for 2 months. M is really good at cramming things in.
My friend and I ended up going to The Bluestone Bistro instead of Indian. She's bent on using up her discount coupon book and this seemed to be the best choice. We had a delicious spicy corn chowder and a southwestern style chicken sandwich with melted cheese and avocado. Yum. The restaurant has such a nice decor since the fire they had a few years ago. Inspiring (since we're doing our basement).
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Material bends, stretches and conducts electricity?
Ok, so now the house is starting to look overcrowded and disgusting upstairs. I don't know how I can look at stacked cardboard boxes in the dining room for 2 months. M is really good at cramming things in.
My friend and I ended up going to The Bluestone Bistro instead of Indian. She's bent on using up her discount coupon book and this seemed to be the best choice. We had a delicious spicy corn chowder and a southwestern style chicken sandwich with melted cheese and avocado. Yum. The restaurant has such a nice decor since the fire they had a few years ago. Inspiring (since we're doing our basement).
News
Thousands Tie The Knot On Good Luck Date Of 08-08-08
Omega 3-Filled Fish Could Help Prevent Stroke, Memory Loss: Study
Chinese residents pack theatre for Olympic ceremony
Material bends, stretches and conducts electricity?
Beijing
Just watched the first hour of the fabulous Beijing Olympic opening ceremony. It was very impressive.
I'm going out to lunch with a friend. We're going to try an Indian restaurant. Then we're meeting some friends from out of town for dinner. We're going to a Chinese buffet restaurant. I'd forgotten about that when I made the lunch plans.
I see some weeds in the garden that need digging up.
News
Live-Blogging the Opening Ceremony
Canada posts biggest job loss in 17 years
I'm going out to lunch with a friend. We're going to try an Indian restaurant. Then we're meeting some friends from out of town for dinner. We're going to a Chinese buffet restaurant. I'd forgotten about that when I made the lunch plans.
I see some weeds in the garden that need digging up.
News
Live-Blogging the Opening Ceremony
Canada posts biggest job loss in 17 years
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Time to start saying 'no'
I've had the busiest day. It must be time to start saying 'no'. Went for a 2 hour walk and coffee with a friend, then rushed off with the kids to a quick restaurant lunch with some relatives. Then the kids went off to a tennis lesson. Then K and I took L and a friend to a movie to meet another friend. Fortunately one of the moms will bring them home. Luckily M had some time to start bringing stuff up from the basement. The house is just looking a bit more 'full', not as overcrowded as I thought it might. But then, M's a good packer.
I even managed to clean the toilets and swiffer (sweep) the house. The dusting will have to wait. I'm totally exhausted. The charity truck came and took another 12 bags of donations and I put 2 old bar stools out on the road and they were 'taken' within hours.
News
Experts disagree on fluoride in drinking water
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I even managed to clean the toilets and swiffer (sweep) the house. The dusting will have to wait. I'm totally exhausted. The charity truck came and took another 12 bags of donations and I put 2 old bar stools out on the road and they were 'taken' within hours.
News
Experts disagree on fluoride in drinking water
Fingerprints now used to find drugs, explosives
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Free refills
Did you know you can get free soft drink refills at McDonald's? I knew you could get coffee refills, but I noticed a postman getting his free coke refill the other day. He said it's really handy on a hot day.
The plumber came again today to put a video camera down our sanitary drain system. Apparently we have an awkward bump that could cause a problem, but it's not necessary to dig it up and replace the routing, there are worse out there. He recommends a snaking (cleanout) every 3 or 4 years as preventive maintenance. He said the worse things to clog a drain are chicken and pork drippings. So vegetarians are lighter on the drain system I suppose.
Step class was tough and crowded today. It's only going to get harder the older I get. Our regular instructor was on vacation so we had a perky young girl today.
The plumber came again today to put a video camera down our sanitary drain system. Apparently we have an awkward bump that could cause a problem, but it's not necessary to dig it up and replace the routing, there are worse out there. He recommends a snaking (cleanout) every 3 or 4 years as preventive maintenance. He said the worse things to clog a drain are chicken and pork drippings. So vegetarians are lighter on the drain system I suppose.
Step class was tough and crowded today. It's only going to get harder the older I get. Our regular instructor was on vacation so we had a perky young girl today.
Pause
I found this Pauseworks website on The clutter diet blog (another favourite of mine). I subscribed to the free weekly ezine and I really like what it has to day. It's reflective about life.
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Fewer shrinks doing talk therapy: study
Are Your Blinking Electronic Devices Disrupting Your Sleep?
Japan's females are longest living in world
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Teen Choice 08
I'm feeling tired this morning, it's supposed to rain a lot this week, but it seems ok now. I'm meeting a friend for a walk in a little while, I'll just take my rain poncho.
I watched the Teen Choice awards last night with L. All the biggest teen stars were there (Miley, Jonas Brothers, Vanessa Hudgens, Zac Efron, etc), as well as a lot of popular adults (Will Smith, Fergie, Mariah, David Beckham, etc.)
L really wants to see the new Sisterhood of the Travelling pants movie.
News
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I watched the Teen Choice awards last night with L. All the biggest teen stars were there (Miley, Jonas Brothers, Vanessa Hudgens, Zac Efron, etc), as well as a lot of popular adults (Will Smith, Fergie, Mariah, David Beckham, etc.)
L really wants to see the new Sisterhood of the Travelling pants movie.
News
Back To School Sales Start Early
Summer holiday's over in 'balanced' school year
Israeli couple forgets daughter, 3, at airport
Monday, August 4, 2008
Back to school prep
I'm dreading the cold days to come. Summer's the best. I only had to pull the garden hose out once this year, it's been so wet.
L and K need some new shoes for school among other things. Back to school prep is then next thing on the agenda. We haven't been at the mall much this summer, being busy with other things I guess. My mastercard is appreciative.
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L and K need some new shoes for school among other things. Back to school prep is then next thing on the agenda. We haven't been at the mall much this summer, being busy with other things I guess. My mastercard is appreciative.
News
Videogame helps kids blast at their cancer
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Sunday, August 3, 2008
The auction
Someone was telling me about furniture shopping at an auction. She said you get really good deals on estate sales, antique furniture. Sounds like something to check out one of these days. It can't hurt to just go and watch.
I'm baking chicken legs today, with roasted potato wedges and a cauliflower and carrot saute. I'm also doing some microwaved fish fillets in ginger, scallion and oil while I'm at it.
L is at work, K is going to a birthday party and M and I will go order our new kitchenette meanwhile. They have a sale starting this month.
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I'm baking chicken legs today, with roasted potato wedges and a cauliflower and carrot saute. I'm also doing some microwaved fish fillets in ginger, scallion and oil while I'm at it.
L is at work, K is going to a birthday party and M and I will go order our new kitchenette meanwhile. They have a sale starting this month.
News
Automakers wooing value-conscious buyers
Luxurious Lakeside Resorts
World's smallest snake is as thin as spaghetti
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Counterfeit money
Note that as of Mar 17, 2009 I discovered the 'fake $5' is actually just an older note.
So yesterday I'm at Mac's milk buying a froster and the cashier rejects my $5 bill as being counterfeit. Sure enough, it was and I think I got it there in the first place as I only use that particular purse when I'm out on my walks.
Then this morning, at our garage sale, a lady presented L with a couple of fake fivers. Luckily we were on alert. The lady seemed innocent enough, but it's alarming to think of what must be out there now. She thought she got it at a restaurant downtown. If you put a real five dollar bill up to the light you'll see a hidden face inside the bill, that's a quick test for the newer bills anyway.
The garage sale was ok, but we didn't have the usual crowds, it being a long weekend. I'm now exhausted. L loves doing the sales part.
Then we discovered water backing up on a floor drain in the basement yesterday. I called the Waterworks Department in our town and they came right away to have a look. It turns out it's a sanitation drain as opposed to a storm drain. They gave me the name of a trusted plumber and he came today and snaked out all the grease buildup. The town would've paid if the problem was at the property line. The plumber is going to come again and put a video camera inside just to make sure there are no other long term problems. It's lucky this all happened before the basement work started. We'll just make sure all the right pipes won't be covered up accidentally. The plumber was fascinated with my fake $5 and bought it off me with a real $5, so now I feel whole again!
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So yesterday I'm at Mac's milk buying a froster and the cashier rejects my $5 bill as being counterfeit. Sure enough, it was and I think I got it there in the first place as I only use that particular purse when I'm out on my walks.
Then this morning, at our garage sale, a lady presented L with a couple of fake fivers. Luckily we were on alert. The lady seemed innocent enough, but it's alarming to think of what must be out there now. She thought she got it at a restaurant downtown. If you put a real five dollar bill up to the light you'll see a hidden face inside the bill, that's a quick test for the newer bills anyway.
The garage sale was ok, but we didn't have the usual crowds, it being a long weekend. I'm now exhausted. L loves doing the sales part.
Then we discovered water backing up on a floor drain in the basement yesterday. I called the Waterworks Department in our town and they came right away to have a look. It turns out it's a sanitation drain as opposed to a storm drain. They gave me the name of a trusted plumber and he came today and snaked out all the grease buildup. The town would've paid if the problem was at the property line. The plumber is going to come again and put a video camera inside just to make sure there are no other long term problems. It's lucky this all happened before the basement work started. We'll just make sure all the right pipes won't be covered up accidentally. The plumber was fascinated with my fake $5 and bought it off me with a real $5, so now I feel whole again!
News
Defriending, the better part of Facebook valour
Record heat, flooding force Arctic park closure
Friday, August 1, 2008
Are you using it
L had a routine doctor's appointment this morning, an asthma checkup. It was really busy as they are closed for the long weekend.
I'm busy sorting through stuff around the house for a garage sale. I'm aiming for bulky items. The trick is to focus on items that no one is using regardless of what condition it's in or how useful it may seem. Our contractor is thinking he can start Aug 18. That's great news but that means I have 2 weeks left to clear the basement. The thought of moving clutter upstairs into the rest of the house bothers me.
13 year old K has grown so much this year. He's quite a bit taller than me now, but still a skinny guy.
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I'm busy sorting through stuff around the house for a garage sale. I'm aiming for bulky items. The trick is to focus on items that no one is using regardless of what condition it's in or how useful it may seem. Our contractor is thinking he can start Aug 18. That's great news but that means I have 2 weeks left to clear the basement. The thought of moving clutter upstairs into the rest of the house bothers me.
13 year old K has grown so much this year. He's quite a bit taller than me now, but still a skinny guy.
News
Thousands marvel at rare total solar eclipse