Canada Travel Girl

Birthday Celebration in USA & Canada

2008-11-22T22:01:00.000-08:00

Facing Your Giants

2008-07-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

To pause the music player loaded on this blog and listen to the powerful presentation, go to the bottom of this blog, click on the left upper button with two double bars (pause button) and the music will be paused (it will turn to an arrow). You can resume listening (click on the arrow on the left upper corner) after finishing this video.

Canada Day

2008-07-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

CANADA DAY

Information from: http://www.pch.gc.ca/PROGS/CPSC-CCSP/JFA-HA/canada_e.cfm

Background

On June 20, 1868, a proclamation signed by the Governor General, Lord Monck, called upon all Her Majesty's loving subjects throughout Canada to join in the celebration of the anniversary of the formation of the union of the British North America provinces in a federation under the name of Canada on July 1st.

The July 1 holiday was established by statute in 1879, under the name Dominion Day.
There is no record of organized ceremonies after this first anniversary, except for the 50th anniversary of Confederation in 1917, at which time the new Centre Block of the Parliament Buildings, under construction, was dedicated as a memorial to the Fathers of Confederation and to the valour of Canadians fighting in the First World War in Europe.

The next celebration was held in 1927 to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Confederation. It was highlighted by the laying of the cornerstone by the Governor General of the Confederation Building on Wellington Street and the inauguration of the Carillon in the Peace Tower.

Since 1958, the government has arranged for an annual observance of Canada's national day with the Secretary of State of Canada in charge of the coordination. The format provided for a Trooping the Colours ceremony on the lawn of Parliament Hill in the afternoon, a sunset ceremony in the evening followed by a mass band concert and fireworks display.

Another highlight was Canada's Centennial in 1967 when Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II attended the celebrations with Parliament Hill again being the backdrop for a large scale official ceremony.

The format changed in 1968 with the addition of multicultural and professional concerts held on Parliament Hill including a nationally televised show. Up until 1975, the focus of the celebrations, under the name "Festival Canada", was held in the National Capital Region during the whole month of July and involved numerous cultural, artistic and sport activities, as well as municipalities and voluntary organizations. The celebration was cancelled in 1976 but was reactivated in 1977.

A new formula was developed in 1980 whereby the National Committee (the federal government organization charged with planning Canada's Birthday celebrations) stressed and sponsored the development of local celebrations all across Canada. "Seed money" was distributed to promote popular and amateur activities organized by volunteer groups in hundreds of local communities. The same approach was also followed for the 1981 celebrations with the addition of fireworks displays in 15 major cities across the nation.

On October 27, 1982, July 1st which was known as "Dominion Day" became "Canada Day".
Since 1985, Canada Day Committees are established in each province and territory to plan, organize and coordinate the Canada Day celebrations locally. Grants are provided by the Department to those committees.

Snack Time in Alaska

2008-06-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Alaska, one of my favorite North American destinations, is breath-takingly beautiful. I'm sure you'll agree from these pictures. (Pictured on the left is Denali as locals call it. Also known as Mt. McKinley, is North America's tallest peak.) I've had the privilege of sitting in the co-pilots seat in a small plane and flying right up to and around the peak. What an awe inspiring view.

To catch the a funny moment in Alaska...be sure to check the link at the end of this posting for the "snack time photo".

Although I can't take credit for these pictures, they represent some of the gorgeous sights I've seen from several cabin experiences and late nights of watching the skies. The Northern Lights below are a great example of God's relationship with us. The Aurora is a good nature object lesson that demonstrates the way the Holy Spirit works in one's life. We cannot see the solar particles as they are emitted by the sun in the heavens, but we can see their effect when they enter the earth's atmosphere, and it is a beautiful thing to behold. Similarly, we cannot see the Holy Spirit that is sent to us by the Son in Heaven, but we can see the Holy Spirit's effect in a person's life, and it is a beautiful thing to behold.

Snapshots from Alaska's wildlife: http://www.alaskasharvest.com/album/5/pic7.htm

Note: Stock photos obtained from http://www.alaskaphotographics.com/alaska_photos.shtml

Winning at the Grocery Game! How to Save $$$!

2008-06-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Just over a week ago, I met up with a girl friend and we went shopping at our favorite grocery chain in Portland. "New Seasons" markets are locally owned and operated and specialize in earth friendly products and organic foods. They believe in supporting sustainable farming methods and buy locally whenever possible.

While the food and service is excellent, the bill is becoming staggering. Both of us purchased 2 bags of groceries...ok we bought special body products which substantially affected the outcome of our bills...but truly $100 doesn't buy what it use to.

Here are a few tips to help win at the grocery game: http://finance.yahoo.com/expert/article/moneyhappy/86082

The Perfect Man!

2008-06-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

The perfect man...does he really exist? Today, it's more likely the man is looking for the perfect woman! This movie sums up the basics of what women are looking for. Click on the play button to view preview of: "The Perfect Man"

British Columbia, Canada Celebrates 150th Birthday

2008-06-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

British Columbia, Canada Celebrating 150 years--Online Calendar of Events: http://www.bc150.gov.bc.ca/bc150.aspx

Map of Canada with British Columbia highlighted in red:

Free Encyclopedia info about BC:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Columbia

It's A Wrap!

2008-06-15T15:42:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the first days of "summer" with my parents over Father's Day Weekend!

Peru's Medical Needs

2008-06-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Thinking of joining the adventure to Peru in December 2008 - January 2009? You've probably got a few a questions. Like, what can we do in such a short time? Who's going to follow-up? With so many needs, what will my small part do? Where will we stay? Is the food safe?

Well first of all, we're working with an established Seventh-day Adventist organization in Lima, Peru. They have their own housing facility with accommodations for our group of up to 36 people. They are happy to have any skills. Since the primary focus of our trip will be medical, those with skills in health care will have first priority. There is a program for single mothers with children, building assistance and other help always welcome. The organization has several full time employed doctors, nurses, cooks and staff working with the single mothers. Our team will help provide additional care, as there is a shortage of medical care for a large percentage of the population in Peru. (Check out the link to the pictures below and I'm sure you'll agree.) With on staff medical providers in Lima, this means that after we leave, there is follow-up for medical care provided. That's great news!

Paul, the founder has groups of all sizes usually monthly if not more frequently and will work with us to obtain special airfares. The accommodations will be clean and comfortable and we'll have safe food. While we may be asked to bring certain supplies, some of the funds for the trip will go towards covering the cost of supplies that can be purchased cheaper in Lima.

If you haven't already read my blog posting on June 7, you'll want to check out the pictures on this link to better understand the living conditions for many in Lima and the needs. (Here's the link: http://jakelyell.com/blog/2007/08/11/houses-on-the-sand-photographs-from-limas-pueblos-jovenes/)

Medical conditions and needs abound in Peru--the following pictures represent some of the extreme worst cases and needs. WARNING: For those not interested in seeing graphic medical pictures, this link is not for you.

http://www.peopleofperu.org/index.php?option=com_na_content&task=view&id=155

You can make a difference in these children's lives!

Greens from my Garden

2008-06-13T20:17:00.000-07:00

This is my last yummy salad from my garden until the new crop comes up! I couldn't resist taking a picture of the greens before devouring them. (Unfortunately, I had to eat them quickly in the Seattle airport before departing for Canada.)

Most Expensive Real Estate Markets in the World

2008-06-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

From the USA suburbs to the peaks of Hong Kong and downtown London, real estate is still doing well in some markets. While the news and media constantly discusses foreclosures, mortgage rates, falling real estate prices and the state of our economy, some people still have money and they're spending it. In the majority of North America, it's a buyer's market. But not so for some of the world's most expensive real estate markets. The prices in these markets are continuing to out-do themselves at an amazing rate.

Earlier this year, I read an interesting article (http://www.overseaspropertymall.com/regions/south-east-asia-property/hong-kong-property/most-expensive-apartment-in-hong-kong-sells/) on the world's most expensive aparment being sold in Hong Kong. It seems that with a shortage of open space, land for sale in Hong Kong goes for a premium and they've outdone themselves once again. Here's the scoop: http://abcnews.go.com/Business/Housing/story?id=2773844&page=1

Looking back at real estate in 1990 when I lived in Hong Kong, I can say that there were some real bargains to be had. A few million is nothing compared to the prices today!

Another great article with a global perspective on apartments and condo's that are at the top of the market internationally can be found at: http://internationalpropertyinvestment.com/most-expensive-condos-in-the-world

World's priciest properties in 2007: http://www.forbes.com/2007/02/21/homes-expensive-world-forbeslife-cx_mw_0222mostexpensivehomes.html

For the latest on markets around the world: http://finance.yahoo.com/real-estate/article/105172/The-Most-Expensive-Real-Estate-Markets-in-the-World

Garden Time!

2008-06-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that the first week of June has already escaped! My furnace is still kicking in and heating my home! Where is our summer weather? To date, we've had more rain than sun and the temperature at night is still quite cool. In fact, one of my starter plants is looking very dead!

The great news is that Sunday was pleasant. However, the forecast for this week is looking ominous again! It's looking like planting in the rain is going to be the only way my garden gets done this year. (I'll be sneaking off to Canada once again...it looks like on the two days the weatherman says we're going to have sun. I'm still trying to sort out what to do for my Dad on Father's Day!) Actually, one month ago we had a beautiful summer like weekend and it has been cold and rainy since. I'm glad to have held off on planting, as not much would have grown.

While surveying my garden and preparing for planting, I discovered that two green loose leaf heads of lettuce survived the winter. I've got enough fresh lettuce to last me a week. And another bonus is my green swiss chard wintered over nicely too, so I'll be picking it frequently as it's trying to go up to seed.

Looking forward to sharing pictures as my yard is transformed into a summer paradise.

Trikking

2008-06-08T18:31:00.000-07:00

Today, I folded up my Trikke and drove to a friend's house...where we took turns riding. It was fun to have a private drive without people watching constantly. Since it's a newer invention, heads turn when a Trikke zooms by. Actually, it's a great conversation starter! It's rather amusing when neighbors that have never spoken to me before, come out and start up a conversation. I'm glad though for the opportunity to meet more neighbors. My learning curve is progressing quickly and I'm loving my Trikke. I'm finding that riding it is a lot like inline skating or snow skiing, althought it has more stability than skates or skis, which I have great appreciation for.

Trikke Time!

2008-06-04T17:08:00.000-07:00

My TRIKKE has finally arrived! It's been a long 4 month wait!

I spent my winter months in Eastern Oregon, working at a small rural hospital. Voluntarily working nights for the first time in my life for 4 months straight was OK, but switching to DAYS was very difficult. I think it took 4 months to get use to night shift and it took just about as long to adjust to DAYS again. (I've decided that night shift isn't for me!) To adjust better to nights and enhance my sleeping during the day, I learned that staying up on my nights off was key. I'd cook, catch up on world news and sometimes walk from my housing across to the hospital to catch up on email and check out graduate schools. One cold wintery night, when I didn't feel like venturing out in the deep snow and tired of CNN, I began flipping channels and stumbled across a Trikke Infomercial. Not usually a fan of infomercials, I was intrigued by the Trikke and decided to make my first ever purchase of something 'seen on TV'. After you watch the video, I think you'll agree the Trikke looks like a lot of fun! It also looks like a great way to tone up too! So I'm off to Trikke!

Here's a video about my Trikke:

Just back from my adventures on the Trikke! It's awesome! In less than an hour, I got the hang of it. Although I will say that I'm not skilled enough to go uphill yet, slight downhills helped speed my learning curve along.

Traveling Lite

2008-06-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

In an age of great excess in the American life...some ways are changing or at least being forced upon travelers. The latest sting at the airport is baggage charges for checked luggage. Just in case you missed the news, beginning June 15, 2008 American Airlines will implement a USD$15 for the first bag under 50 lbs, $25 for the second and $100 for every bag thereafter. A change from their $25 for the second bag which they started May 12. That policy was in effect only a few days, when they gave notice of increasing the surcharges again. This is despite the increase in airfares. American Airlines service is so bad anyhow, I honestly don't know why they don't shut their doors and be done with it. It would put all of us of our misery sooner!

The really sad news is that beginning July 1, 2008, changes will be hitting really close to home. My favourite carrier, Alaska Airlines has now jumped on the bandwagon with the rising fuel costs and decided to charge $25 for the second checked bag. The only reprive is that MVP Gold and First Class passengers are exempt from charges and are allowed two free checked bags up to 50 lbs each.

Actually, I believe American Airlines are doing the same thing too with their elite flyers and First Class. And of course, handicapped persons traveling with a wheelchair will not be charged extra for their equipment.

Thankfully, international (overseas) flights so far are not affected. However, as the economy continues on it's spiral downwards here in the USA, there are likely to be more changes within the airline industry including international flights.

Flights within North America no longer have food...some have 'snack packs' loaded with sugar and artery clogging crackers or other junk for the great bargain price of US$5-6. Several airlines still hand out a small bag of raisins or some sort of snack mix for free...but those are nearly obsolete. Passengers in First Class fair slightly better and may be served a light snack or meal. Real dishes and cutlery still exists in the First Class cabin too. The bottom line, if you're getting a a plane or traveling far, load your carry-on bag or a special "food bag" which is exempted from your carry-on allowance with food. Some suggestions are fresh fruit (if you can consume it before reaching your international destination--and you're not flying out of Hawaii--the screeners will confiscate fruit on departure), dried fruit, trail mix, sandwiches or whatever else you can find thats handy for your trip. Just remember to leave your favourite water bottle at home or pack it empty in your luggage. No liquids over 3 oz. currently are allowed through TSA screening. We can likely expect more restrictions in carry-on coming as a result of the airline baggage fees.

Overseas flights fair slightly better in the baggage and food arena for the most part and it's still possible to request special meals. Last year on the way to the Middle East (Dubai, UAE) via Europe (Frankfurt, Germany and London, England, UK), my dad and I found the food to be quite good in economy class. We flew on Air Canada and Lufthansa. However when it came to carry-on bags, London Heathrow has a ONE bag policy--including the food bag. This may change...so check before you fly.

Check out this article for Expert's advice: Travel light, 'carry perfect bag'

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/news/2008-05-29-packing-advice_N.htm

I wonder when the airlines will start charging for a glass of water?

Stay tuned!

Oprah Goes Vegan for 21 Days!

2008-06-02T08:52:00.001-07:00

Oprah is doing a 21 day cleanse--the vegan way! Check out menus, recipes and more at: http://www2.oprah.com/foodhome/food/cleanse/menus/menus_main.jhtml

101 Questions to ask Before You Get Engaged

2008-06-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Wow! Today, we seem to live in a society where it's nearly impossible for people to commit. The online dating scene is no exception. While online sites flourish and relationships come and go...some faster than others, precious few tie the knot. Beware of someone rushing the relationship...it should be a red flag. Approximately 5% of singles in North America seek out the Internet for meeting a mate, although that number is likely growing. Where are the other 95% hiding?

Since the online pool is actually quite small it will likely be a long journey before one gets to the "101 Questions to ask Before You Get Engaged" by H. Norman Wright. However, like one of Wright's friends shares, in searching for the perfect mate, it took a long time to realize there is no such creature out there!

One thing that I've found helpful is compiling experiences over the years from different situations and learned about compromise. When I find someone of interest, I stop and ask myself What can I live with or cannot accept. Then I look at will I fit theirs? It's extremely difficult to find someone who fits 100%. Maybe that's part of the challenge with our world today...we all have unrealistic expectations.

Real potential? Before writing off the next person you meet...perhaps consider what your hearts desires are and be open to exchanging a few emails.

After intentionally meeting people for 8 years (including a few serious dating relationships and nearly getting married), I've come to learn a few things about the online dating scene, young adult groups and dating in general. Pictures are important, however getting acquainted with someone who has like interests, shared common background and similar future goals is what counts in the long run. (And nothing replaces meeting in person.) Sometimes I've been guilty of putting to much emphasis on my own 'criteria'...in whatever area I thought was non-negotiable. Through the years, that's changed somewhat. (OK, so if it's my face that God gave me that's the block, I can't help it.)

It's always worth encouraging someone you've met to think it over. Hey, my mom was engaged to another man when she was in nursing school. My father, was leaving and heading far away to continue his doctoral studies at another university. He managed to convince my mother to break off the engagement and get to know him. Apparently, it took quite a bit of convincing, long distance silence, then calls, letters, visits and finally they were officially dating. My parents were married about 4 years later! In 2007, they celebrated 40 years of marriage!

So if you think your profiles share a lot in common and you'd like to pursue a friendship to see where it might lead, go for it. If he or she is truly the guy or gal portrayed in their profile and a great fit with yours, then it's worth a shot. Through the years I've learned that profiles only give a small glimpse of who someone really truly is.

Finally, never under estimate the power of prayer! Ask God to help open your eyes to what you need to see and to guide your friendship. Prayer works...I know from personal experience.

My final thoughts for all my single friends out there, is keep up your courage! It's a jungle out there!

Annual Fit Testing

2008-05-29T03:08:00.000-07:00

Yearly, hospitals are required to fit-test special masks on employees (faces). These masks are worn in case a health care provider is caring for a TB (tuberculosis) or infectious patient requiring isolation.

The following notice was stuffed in my box in the Maternity Ward at work:

Please be advised that your annual tit testing is due. Please see "..." to schedule your testing.

Sincerely,
"...", RN
Director, Family Birth Place

I took the notice to the Director of Family Birth Place and reviewed it with her. The director was embrassed when she finally figured out the blooper!

Flirting in Row 9

2008-05-27T16:01:00.000-07:00

This past February, I was flying home to Portland, OR on Horizon Airlines--a small commuter aircraft (part of Alaska Airlines). As a frequent flyer and elite member, I usually get a seat in the front of the plane. However, I arrived at the airport early for my scheduled flight and asked to fly standby on an earlier flight. At the last moment, I was granted my request and given the very LAST seat on the airplane. The gate attendant apologised for the seat...the middle seat in the back row. Thankful to be heading home early, I didn't mind and ran out to the aircraft. This plane had 9 rows with 5 seats across the back. You guessed it, I was wedged between everyone in the back row with 2 people on either side. Once settled in, the handsome man on my left announced loudly so the entire airplane could hear, "This is the best day of my life!" and everyone stopped talking in eager anticipation. He paused long enough for me to nearly ask "why?" but then continued just before I got the words out. He said, "I'm sitting in the back row of the airplane with 4 beautiful women!" With that, the entire airplane erupted in laughter! And, he added, "the drinks are on me!".