Did you know Canada.. it's Hunger Awareness Day. Please visit http://hungerawarenessday.ca to find out how you can help!
From their website..
Hunger Awareness Day is about raising awareness of the solvable problem of hunger in Canada. Food banks across the country hold events to tell the story of the work they do, and the stories of hungry Canadians assisted by food banks.
This year Canadians are being invited to make a change - big or small - that can impact the issue of hunger in our country.
There is still Hunger in Canada!!!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
New NHL Team coming to Winnipeg
Did you know Canada.. as we mentioned on Twitter and Facebook this morning TSN reported that at 12pm today it will be announced the Atlanta Trashers are moving to Winnipeg for start of 2011-12 season!
Rumours have been around for weeks suggesting that the Atlanta Spirit Group are negotiating a $170-million deal to sell their money-losing team to True North Sports and Entertainment Limited. It's been said that the Atlanta Thrashers are dead as an NHL team. There is no interest whatsoever in keeping that team in Atlanta and the only choice left is to the move team or they will fold the team completely.
Check back here after 12pm for all the details on Winnipeg's new NHL team!
Updates:
* NHL confirms Atlanta Thrashers have been sold to group in Winnipeg
* the name of new team won't be announced today
Rumours have been around for weeks suggesting that the Atlanta Spirit Group are negotiating a $170-million deal to sell their money-losing team to True North Sports and Entertainment Limited. It's been said that the Atlanta Thrashers are dead as an NHL team. There is no interest whatsoever in keeping that team in Atlanta and the only choice left is to the move team or they will fold the team completely.
Check back here after 12pm for all the details on Winnipeg's new NHL team!
Updates:
* NHL confirms Atlanta Thrashers have been sold to group in Winnipeg
* the name of new team won't be announced today
Monday, May 30, 2011
Eagles of Hornby Island
Did you know Canada.. one of our fantastic readers Gingermommy turn me on to The Eagles of Hornby Island webcam.
From the website..
Our eagle cam streams live video of a pair of Bald eagles nesting in a tree on Hornby Island in British Columbia Canada.
The two cameras were installed in September of 2004. The nest is 120 feet off the ground in a Douglas fir tree.
Doug Carrick hosts the eagle cam and has been observing this pair of eagles in excess of twenty years. This was one of, if not the first eagle cam ever to be Webcast. The cam went "live" to the Internet in 2006 and since then millions of viewers have Followed Mom and Dad Hornby as they've raised their young. Through technology and the graciousness of Doug and Sheila Carrick, people from all over the world have been able to enjoy this fascinating look into the lives of these wonderful eagles. We hope that you will enjoy them as well.
My boys and I have enjoyed watching the webcam today and will continue to do so - especially the eagle babies that recently hatches a few weeks ago!! Their forum and website if filled with fantastic Eagle Information and details about the birds we're watching - a great read. Another fantastic thing Canada has to offer!!
From the website..
Our eagle cam streams live video of a pair of Bald eagles nesting in a tree on Hornby Island in British Columbia Canada.
The two cameras were installed in September of 2004. The nest is 120 feet off the ground in a Douglas fir tree.
Doug Carrick hosts the eagle cam and has been observing this pair of eagles in excess of twenty years. This was one of, if not the first eagle cam ever to be Webcast. The cam went "live" to the Internet in 2006 and since then millions of viewers have Followed Mom and Dad Hornby as they've raised their young. Through technology and the graciousness of Doug and Sheila Carrick, people from all over the world have been able to enjoy this fascinating look into the lives of these wonderful eagles. We hope that you will enjoy them as well.
My boys and I have enjoyed watching the webcam today and will continue to do so - especially the eagle babies that recently hatches a few weeks ago!! Their forum and website if filled with fantastic Eagle Information and details about the birds we're watching - a great read. Another fantastic thing Canada has to offer!!
Canada Post Strike Update May 30
Did you know Canada.. it looks like the strike is a GO.
Canada Post received notice that the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) intends to begin strike activities at 11:59 p.m. EDT on June 2, 2011.
In the event of a strike, Canada Post will not operate. Mail and parcels will not be delivered. Though as we mentioned before there are some plans in place to get folks their social assistance checks.
Canada Post says despite this development, talks between the company and union are continuing in an effort to reach a negotiated settlement to this round of labour negotiations. There have been last minute agreements in the past.
Let's hope they really are continuing to work towards an agreement before the strike.
Canada Post received notice that the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) intends to begin strike activities at 11:59 p.m. EDT on June 2, 2011.
In the event of a strike, Canada Post will not operate. Mail and parcels will not be delivered. Though as we mentioned before there are some plans in place to get folks their social assistance checks.
Canada Post says despite this development, talks between the company and union are continuing in an effort to reach a negotiated settlement to this round of labour negotiations. There have been last minute agreements in the past.
Let's hope they really are continuing to work towards an agreement before the strike.
Giveaway! Life Choices Foods
Winner: Congratulations to our winner Jonnie, she will be receiving such a fantastic prize!
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - such fantastic products! We just had some more chicken nuggets last night with homemade macaroni & cheese - the boys LOVE them! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. I have passed Life Choices Foods products many times in the grocery store and finally remembered to look them up a few weeks ago. I am SO glad I did.
Life Choices Natural Foods is a natural health foods company based in Toronto with a mission of: Making the Right Choices Easy. All of our products are not only natural, but best of all they’re kid-friendly! We provide Canadian families with healthy versions of the foods they want to eat, such as Pizzas, Mac & Cheese, Meatballs, Chicken Fingers and even Pierogies. We have vegetarian, vegan and glucose-free products as well.
If you visit the Life Choices Foods website you can find recipes and easily sign up for their eNewsletter which includes expert nutritional information, fun recipes, and lifestyle tips and is sent bi-monthly.
Giveaway
One lucky reader will be able to not only try a Life Choices Foods product of their choice with a Free Product Coupon they will also win an insulated lunch tote (kids can draw on it!), 3 boxes of Life Choices Foods Mac ‘n Cheese and 3 $1-Off Coupons!
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Visit the Life Choices Foods product page and let us know your favourite product.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @lifechoicesfood on Twitter
- Like Life Choices Natural Foods on Facebook
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
#Canada want a healthy version of ur fav food? Enter to #win a @LIFECHOICESFOOD Prize Pack! Ends 06/13 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/iJLzp9
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers closing June 13 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a free product coupon to try a product of our choice, we will be buying more in the future - our opinions are our own.
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - such fantastic products! We just had some more chicken nuggets last night with homemade macaroni & cheese - the boys LOVE them! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. I have passed Life Choices Foods products many times in the grocery store and finally remembered to look them up a few weeks ago. I am SO glad I did.
Life Choices Natural Foods is a natural health foods company based in Toronto with a mission of: Making the Right Choices Easy. All of our products are not only natural, but best of all they’re kid-friendly! We provide Canadian families with healthy versions of the foods they want to eat, such as Pizzas, Mac & Cheese, Meatballs, Chicken Fingers and even Pierogies. We have vegetarian, vegan and glucose-free products as well. As a Mom of 2 boys I think this is FANTASTIC. As much as I want to and try to broaden my boys tastes and food experiences absolutely Pizza, Mac & Cheese, Chicken Nuggets and more are favourites.
We recently tried the Chicken Nuggets from Life Choices Foods and my boys loved them! I don't say that lightly either - we have tried many store bought chicken nuggets and strips and the boys (and me) often find the texture just plain wrong - too dry, too chewy, the breading falling off and more but these were awesome! Life Choices Foods chicken nuggets are made with our premium quality chicken; vegetable grain-fed, raised without animal by-products and raised without antibiotics. Our custom-made *Multigrain Coating; with flax, whole grains and oats, provides sources of Omega-3 and fibre. Something else I thought was fantastic was it's in a resealable bag!! Yes - thank you!! Little boys do not eat 20 nuggets at once, resealable bags are exactly what we need.
As you can see 2 very happy boys LOVED the nuggets as well..
As you can see 2 very happy boys LOVED the nuggets as well..
If you visit the Life Choices Foods website you can find recipes and easily sign up for their eNewsletter which includes expert nutritional information, fun recipes, and lifestyle tips and is sent bi-monthly.
Giveaway
One lucky reader will be able to not only try a Life Choices Foods product of their choice with a Free Product Coupon they will also win an insulated lunch tote (kids can draw on it!), 3 boxes of Life Choices Foods Mac ‘n Cheese and 3 $1-Off Coupons!
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Visit the Life Choices Foods product page and let us know your favourite product.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @lifechoicesfood on Twitter
- Like Life Choices Natural Foods on Facebook
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
#Canada want a healthy version of ur fav food? Enter to #win a @LIFECHOICESFOOD Prize Pack! Ends 06/13 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/iJLzp9
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers closing June 13 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a free product coupon to try a product of our choice, we will be buying more in the future - our opinions are our own.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Canada's Giant
Did you know Canada.. the tallest man from Canada is Edouard Beaupré. Edouard was also known as Beaupré the giant. Beaupré was the eldest of 20 children born to Gaspard and Florestine (née Piché) Beaupré born January 9, 1881 in the newly-founded parish of Willow Bunch, Saskatchewan, Canada, and was the first child to be baptized in the parish.
In 1902, Edouard's height was measured at 8 feet 2.5 inches and he weighed over 400 pounds. His death on July 3, 1904 after being diagnosed with tuberculosis 2 years earlier and of course his rapid growth and the disease had taken a heavy toll on him. His death certificate describes him as being 8'3" (2,52m) tall and still growing.
During his short life Edouard was a first-rate horseman, a circus and freak show giant, strongman, and a star in Barnum and Bailey's circus.
Visit thetallestman.com to see pictures of Edouard.
Source: Canadian Biography Online, thetallestman.com
In 1902, Edouard's height was measured at 8 feet 2.5 inches and he weighed over 400 pounds. His death on July 3, 1904 after being diagnosed with tuberculosis 2 years earlier and of course his rapid growth and the disease had taken a heavy toll on him. His death certificate describes him as being 8'3" (2,52m) tall and still growing.
During his short life Edouard was a first-rate horseman, a circus and freak show giant, strongman, and a star in Barnum and Bailey's circus.
Visit thetallestman.com to see pictures of Edouard.
Source: Canadian Biography Online, thetallestman.com
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Bird in Need
Did you know Canada.. a friend of mine, Gingermommy, and her family are trying to rescue a bird in distress.
We just donated to help her get this beautiful Macaw out of the poor conditions it's living in and into her loving home. We hope you can dontate a few dollars as well. The following is her story..
We just donated to help her get this beautiful Macaw out of the poor conditions it's living in and into her loving home. We hope you can dontate a few dollars as well. The following is her story..
We have had a very busy week. We recently started looking around on the web and researched some Macaws. They are really beautiful birds. Unfortunately not everyone cares for them like they deserve. These birds are very social and very loving. Our family has wanted to adopt one for quite some time even before watching the movie.
We came across a bird that is in much need of a new home. He currently is being kept in a shed where he has little to no contact. He has a light that is on a timer and a very limited diet. He has been neglected. He is labelled as untame but really he is just neglected. We very much want to adopt him and bring him to our home. This Macaw is less desirable to most people because he is not a baby and he has some issues. I believe that he will be happy and healthy removed from this owner. The cost of the bird is $500 which is low in comparison to most and there is additional costs for his cage and ongoing care. I wish I had the room and the money to take in every animal that we came across that needed love but we can not. This Macaw is special, he has really touched our hearts.
When my husband saw him today, he actually fed him by hand and the bird showed signs of being happy and excited because he was getting the attention he thrives. I know with a little time and love he will be a great addition to our family. Currently he is stressed from his environment and has started plucking his feathers out. This is why we want to bring him home with us. We want him to be able to live a happy loving life. I have added a PayPal button to my blog. This is not something I normally would do. But I am asking for anything anyone can spare to help with these costs. We do not have extra money but we do have extra love and anything donated is appreciated. I am pulling every resource I can to adopt this Macaw. I will be posting pics of him and his progress as time goes on. I thank you all for your support in advance.
As you can see he is a Blue and Gold Macaw. He has plucked his chest feathers out and is missing his toes on his one foot. This bird needs a loving home and attention.
I would love to eventually be in contact with some toy manufacturers and pet stores for reviews too :)
I really hope we can get the money together to bring this Macaw to our home. He deserves a new family and a second chance. You can look forward to more posts about this Macaw here http://www.talesofarantingginger.com/
Poutine
Did you know Canada.. of course we all know about our Canadian favourite Poutine but do you know its history?
The dish originated in rural Quebec, Canada, in the late 1950s. One tale often told is that of Fernand Lachance, from Warwick, Quebec, which claims that poutine was invented in 1957. Lachance is said to have exclaimed ça va faire une maudite poutine ("it will make a damn mess"), hence the name. The sauce was allegedly added later, to keep the fries warm longer.
Poutine used to be considered embarrassing to the local French-Canadian population as it was considered a low, rural food. Though now it's a dish many Canadians are proud of and enjoy introducing it to new comers.
The true way to build a poutine is fries, fresh white cheddar cheese curds and gravy - usually chicken gravy or a sauce brune which is a combination of beef and chicken stock, originating in Quebec.
Cheese curds were a staple in Quebec often sold right at the front of counter convenience stores in bags. They’re made fresh daily, and are meant to be kept at room temperature and eaten on the same day. These fresh cheese curds are best known for the squeaky sound they make when you bite into one.
Source: Wikipedia
The dish originated in rural Quebec, Canada, in the late 1950s. One tale often told is that of Fernand Lachance, from Warwick, Quebec, which claims that poutine was invented in 1957. Lachance is said to have exclaimed ça va faire une maudite poutine ("it will make a damn mess"), hence the name. The sauce was allegedly added later, to keep the fries warm longer.
Poutine used to be considered embarrassing to the local French-Canadian population as it was considered a low, rural food. Though now it's a dish many Canadians are proud of and enjoy introducing it to new comers.
The true way to build a poutine is fries, fresh white cheddar cheese curds and gravy - usually chicken gravy or a sauce brune which is a combination of beef and chicken stock, originating in Quebec.
Cheese curds were a staple in Quebec often sold right at the front of counter convenience stores in bags. They’re made fresh daily, and are meant to be kept at room temperature and eaten on the same day. These fresh cheese curds are best known for the squeaky sound they make when you bite into one.
Source: Wikipedia
Friday, May 27, 2011
Canada Post Strike Update May 27
Did you know Canada..
CUPW Denies Rumours of a Strike Notice coming down the pipe for Friday May 27th. They claim business as usual while labour negotiations between Canada Post and CUPW continue.
We'll keep our fingers crossed a strike continues to be averted!
CUPW Denies Rumours of a Strike Notice coming down the pipe for Friday May 27th. They claim business as usual while labour negotiations between Canada Post and CUPW continue.
We'll keep our fingers crossed a strike continues to be averted!
Giveaway! Hard Candy
Winner: Congrats to our winner Angie, we know she will LOVE this Hard Candy Prize Pack. Thanks again everyone for joining our giveaway!
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - such cool products! Since I first posted the review and giveaway I've been to Walmart and purchased more lip shine and some "Peace" Kal-eye-descope - Baked Eyeshadow Duos - love them! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. Hard Candy is now available throughout Canada!!! Exclusively available at Walmart. The brand has been flying off the shelves with the early favorites being Take Me Out liners, Kal-eye-descope Baked Shadows, Meteor-eyes glittering baked shadows, 1,000 Lashes Mascara and Ginormous Mascara.
Hard Candy Cosmetics is known for providing beauty with attitude. With products with names like Glitteratzi - Eye Glitter Gel, Glossaholic - Sequin Saturated Shine Lip Gloss and Kal-eye-descope - Baked Eyeshadow Duos you know Hard Candy has you covered for a fun day out or a wild night out.
I was lucky enough to try a few Hard Candy products: Take Me Out Liner, Mouthing Off - Sheer Lip Shine and Outrageously Delicious - Flavored Body Powder.
They are fantastic, and hands down so cool. The liner went on like a dream. The Sheer Lip Shine is perfect for day and night - I've only had it for a few days and it's already been "borrowed" by my Mom, and I even got a couple compliments while out at the market! The Body Power is just the greatest thing - it's an all in one that you apply with a brush, so it's only one step to brush on a light covering of fun sparkles, perfect for this past long weekend - and mine was cocoa scent - too cool!
There are a few other really interesting things I want to tell you about Hard Candy. The Hard Candy collection has never and will never test on animals. And for all the Vegan Hard Candy lovers Hard Candy has a very long list of Vegan Hard Candy products!
Hard Candy is colorful, addictive, and fun - we are so lucky it's now available to Canadians.
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win the same products I was lucky enough to try out: Take Me Out Liner, Mouthing Off - Sheer Lip Shine and Outrageously Delicious - Flavored Body Powder.
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Follow Hard Candy on Twitter @HeresHardCandy and comment below that you have.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Like Hard Candy on Facebook
- Visit Hard Candy website and let us know which products you like best
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Enter to #win a Hard Candy Prize Pack!! Ends June 10 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/kqZeN7
Giveaway open to Canada and the US closes June 10 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: As mentioned we received some product samples to try, we will be purchasing more from our local Walmart! - our opinions are our own.
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - such cool products! Since I first posted the review and giveaway I've been to Walmart and purchased more lip shine and some "Peace" Kal-eye-descope - Baked Eyeshadow Duos - love them! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. Hard Candy is now available throughout Canada!!! Exclusively available at Walmart. The brand has been flying off the shelves with the early favorites being Take Me Out liners, Kal-eye-descope Baked Shadows, Meteor-eyes glittering baked shadows, 1,000 Lashes Mascara and Ginormous Mascara.
Hard Candy Cosmetics is known for providing beauty with attitude. With products with names like Glitteratzi - Eye Glitter Gel, Glossaholic - Sequin Saturated Shine Lip Gloss and Kal-eye-descope - Baked Eyeshadow Duos you know Hard Candy has you covered for a fun day out or a wild night out.
I was lucky enough to try a few Hard Candy products: Take Me Out Liner, Mouthing Off - Sheer Lip Shine and Outrageously Delicious - Flavored Body Powder.
They are fantastic, and hands down so cool. The liner went on like a dream. The Sheer Lip Shine is perfect for day and night - I've only had it for a few days and it's already been "borrowed" by my Mom, and I even got a couple compliments while out at the market! The Body Power is just the greatest thing - it's an all in one that you apply with a brush, so it's only one step to brush on a light covering of fun sparkles, perfect for this past long weekend - and mine was cocoa scent - too cool!
There are a few other really interesting things I want to tell you about Hard Candy. The Hard Candy collection has never and will never test on animals. And for all the Vegan Hard Candy lovers Hard Candy has a very long list of Vegan Hard Candy products!
Hard Candy is colorful, addictive, and fun - we are so lucky it's now available to Canadians.
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win the same products I was lucky enough to try out: Take Me Out Liner, Mouthing Off - Sheer Lip Shine and Outrageously Delicious - Flavored Body Powder.
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Follow Hard Candy on Twitter @HeresHardCandy and comment below that you have.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Like Hard Candy on Facebook
- Visit Hard Candy website and let us know which products you like best
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Enter to #win a Hard Candy Prize Pack!! Ends June 10 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/kqZeN7
Giveaway open to Canada and the US closes June 10 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: As mentioned we received some product samples to try, we will be purchasing more from our local Walmart! - our opinions are our own.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Canadian Football
Did you know Canada.. Canadian Football is actually pretty cool - Canadian football is faster pace, higher-scoring & more exciting, and we have BIGGER balls!
Both Canadian and Amercian football have their origins in rugby football. Football was introduced to North America in Canada by the British Army garrison in Montreal, which played a series of games with McGill University. Most of the rules differences between Canadian and American Football have arisen because of rules changes in American football in the early twentieth century which have not been copied by Canadian football.
Some of the most noticeable differences between the 2 countries include: the official playing field in Canadian football is larger than the American, American teams use eleven players, while Canadian teams have twelve players on the field per side, In American football, there are four downs, while in Canadian football, there are three.
Which game do you prefer?
Source: Wikipedia
Both Canadian and Amercian football have their origins in rugby football. Football was introduced to North America in Canada by the British Army garrison in Montreal, which played a series of games with McGill University. Most of the rules differences between Canadian and American Football have arisen because of rules changes in American football in the early twentieth century which have not been copied by Canadian football.
Some of the most noticeable differences between the 2 countries include: the official playing field in Canadian football is larger than the American, American teams use eleven players, while Canadian teams have twelve players on the field per side, In American football, there are four downs, while in Canadian football, there are three.
Which game do you prefer?
Source: Wikipedia
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Work Absences
Did you know Canada.. Stats Canada did a really interesting study on work absences. They found in an average week in 2010, 8.0% of full-time employees in Canada missed some work for personal reasons.
Women lost 11.0 days compared with 7.6 days for men. Full-time workers with preschool-age children lost 3.1 days for personal or family responsibilities compared with 1.4 days for those in families without children.
I definitely can see the number being higher for those with preschool-age children, between doctors appointments, random illnesses with kids and more I know everyday is a challenge for parents to get to work.
Stats Canada also found that at the industry level, full-time employees who missed the most work days on average were those in health care and social assistance (13.4 days) and public administration (11.8 days). The lowest averages were recorded by those in professional, scientific and technical services (5.4 days) and primary industries (7.0 days).
Do you find these numbers high?? When I worked in the office full time I always felt guilty about calling in sick no matter how sick I was, I know others make sure they get in all their allotted sick days every year whether they are really sick or not.
Source: Statistics Canada
Women lost 11.0 days compared with 7.6 days for men. Full-time workers with preschool-age children lost 3.1 days for personal or family responsibilities compared with 1.4 days for those in families without children.
I definitely can see the number being higher for those with preschool-age children, between doctors appointments, random illnesses with kids and more I know everyday is a challenge for parents to get to work.
Stats Canada also found that at the industry level, full-time employees who missed the most work days on average were those in health care and social assistance (13.4 days) and public administration (11.8 days). The lowest averages were recorded by those in professional, scientific and technical services (5.4 days) and primary industries (7.0 days).
Do you find these numbers high?? When I worked in the office full time I always felt guilty about calling in sick no matter how sick I was, I know others make sure they get in all their allotted sick days every year whether they are really sick or not.
Source: Statistics Canada
Newspapers
Did you know Canada.. Canada's first newspaper, John Bushell's Halifax Gazette, began publication in 1752. In 1917, Canadian newspapers banded together to form The Canadian Press, a news-gathering co-operative which ensured that stories at one end of the country would be available to papers at the other end.
Now there are about 100 daily newspapers published in Canada. In 2009, Canada’s daily paid circulation stood at 4.1 million copies on an average publishing day and 26.9 million copies in an average week.
The most widely read paper in our country is the Toronto Star. The second is Toronto-based national newspaper The Globe and Mail. The most widely read French-language newspaper is Le Journal de Montréal. As you probably know, unlike the United States, newspapers in Canada published their biggest and mostly widely read editions on Saturdays instead of Sundays.
It was interesting to read that it was The Halifax Daily News in 1994 that became Canada's first daily to launch an online edition on the Internet.
Do you read the newspaper daily? If so is it online or paper copy?
Source: thecanadianencyclopedia.com, newspaperscanada.ca, Wikipedia
Now there are about 100 daily newspapers published in Canada. In 2009, Canada’s daily paid circulation stood at 4.1 million copies on an average publishing day and 26.9 million copies in an average week.
The most widely read paper in our country is the Toronto Star. The second is Toronto-based national newspaper The Globe and Mail. The most widely read French-language newspaper is Le Journal de Montréal. As you probably know, unlike the United States, newspapers in Canada published their biggest and mostly widely read editions on Saturdays instead of Sundays.
It was interesting to read that it was The Halifax Daily News in 1994 that became Canada's first daily to launch an online edition on the Internet.
Do you read the newspaper daily? If so is it online or paper copy?
Source: thecanadianencyclopedia.com, newspaperscanada.ca, Wikipedia
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Canada Post Strike Update May 24
Did you know Canada.. Mail continues until at least this Friday.
Canada Post will continue to work until at least May 27, as the CUPW has not issued a mandatory 72-hour strike notice yet.
CUPW is waiting for a response on their recent global offer submitted on May 22rd.
Update: Latest offer from union has been rejected by Canada Post
Canada Post will continue to work until at least May 27, as the CUPW has not issued a mandatory 72-hour strike notice yet.
CUPW is waiting for a response on their recent global offer submitted on May 22rd.
Update: Latest offer from union has been rejected by Canada Post
Giveaway! DK Canada: ROUGH GUIDES
Winner: Congratulations to our winner Kristy! We are very excited she has won our ROUGH GUIDE ADVENTURES Prize Pack!! Thanks again to everyone for joining our giveaway!!
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - fantastic books! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. Our friends at DK Canada publish the most fantastic book series ROUGH GUIDES. From travel guides covering more than 200 worldwide destinations as well as phrasebooks and maps to music guides and reference books on topics as diverse as Climate Change, Ethical shopping and Shakespeare, ROUGH GUIDES offer a world of ways to make the most of your time on Earth.
I had the chance to read Rough Guide to Canada. I have to say, that photo on the cover, that is MY Canada, it honestly makes my heart sing every time I see it. But I'll admit when I first saw the book I thought Wow, this is a book stuffed full of information. Well I'm here to tell you it IS stuffed full of information and presented in a well thought out, easy to read, easy to manage format.
The first 50 or so pages takes you through Canada in gorgeous colour photos, explains all the travel essential - especially for those visiting from outside the country, offers a fantastic list of festivals and more.
Then reading into the Guide itself is broken up into different locations, each with highlighted information, maps, history and a list of places to go and stay WITH phone numbers, hours, and pricing. This is what I really love, giving people the information they REALLY need all in one book so they don't have to go searching for numbers, wondering if a place is open on a Sunday, leaving folks concerned about how much it's going to cost and many times the book will tell you if it's necessary to call ahead before heading to a location.
The book even reminded me of some places I should be introducing my own children to in my local Southwestern Ontario. Sometimes it's easy to forget about the activities and events available in your own backyard.
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win a ROUGH GUIDE ADVENTURES Prize Pack consisting of..
* Rough Guide Ultimate Adventures
* Rough Guide Clean Breaks
* Rough Guide Earthbound
Total value - $97.49
Mandatory Entry - 1 mandatory entry per person
Comment below with an outdoor adventure you've had or would love to have.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @roughguidescan on Twitter
- Like DK Canada on Facebook
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Enter to #win a ROUGH GUIDE ADVENTURES Prize Pack ends June 7 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/jmnyJi
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers, closes June 7 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a copy of Rough Guide to Canada to review.
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - fantastic books! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. Our friends at DK Canada publish the most fantastic book series ROUGH GUIDES. From travel guides covering more than 200 worldwide destinations as well as phrasebooks and maps to music guides and reference books on topics as diverse as Climate Change, Ethical shopping and Shakespeare, ROUGH GUIDES offer a world of ways to make the most of your time on Earth.
I had the chance to read Rough Guide to Canada. I have to say, that photo on the cover, that is MY Canada, it honestly makes my heart sing every time I see it. But I'll admit when I first saw the book I thought Wow, this is a book stuffed full of information. Well I'm here to tell you it IS stuffed full of information and presented in a well thought out, easy to read, easy to manage format.The first 50 or so pages takes you through Canada in gorgeous colour photos, explains all the travel essential - especially for those visiting from outside the country, offers a fantastic list of festivals and more.
Then reading into the Guide itself is broken up into different locations, each with highlighted information, maps, history and a list of places to go and stay WITH phone numbers, hours, and pricing. This is what I really love, giving people the information they REALLY need all in one book so they don't have to go searching for numbers, wondering if a place is open on a Sunday, leaving folks concerned about how much it's going to cost and many times the book will tell you if it's necessary to call ahead before heading to a location.
The book even reminded me of some places I should be introducing my own children to in my local Southwestern Ontario. Sometimes it's easy to forget about the activities and events available in your own backyard.
Giveaway
* Rough Guide Ultimate Adventures
* Rough Guide Clean Breaks
* Rough Guide Earthbound
Total value - $97.49
Mandatory Entry - 1 mandatory entry per person
Comment below with an outdoor adventure you've had or would love to have.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @roughguidescan on Twitter
- Like DK Canada on Facebook
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Enter to #win a ROUGH GUIDE ADVENTURES Prize Pack ends June 7 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/jmnyJi
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers, closes June 7 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a copy of Rough Guide to Canada to review.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Canada Post Update for May 23
Did you know Canada.. We may luck out in the Canada Post strike yet!
Canada Post insisted today in a statement that there will be no postal strike in Canada on Wednesday, as negotiations with the CUPW continued through the weekend and into this week.
The union sent an updated set of demands to the Crown Corporation on Sunday, after Canada Post had set out its final offer for a new four-year collective bargaining agreement on Thursday.
The CUPW said its new comprehensive offer continues to oppose Canada Post’s proposals to reform sick leave entitlement as well as rejecting a 22% cut in starting salaries for future employees.
Canada Post insisted today in a statement that there will be no postal strike in Canada on Wednesday, as negotiations with the CUPW continued through the weekend and into this week.
The union sent an updated set of demands to the Crown Corporation on Sunday, after Canada Post had set out its final offer for a new four-year collective bargaining agreement on Thursday.
The CUPW said its new comprehensive offer continues to oppose Canada Post’s proposals to reform sick leave entitlement as well as rejecting a 22% cut in starting salaries for future employees.
Giveaway! Real - The Canadian Kids' Magazine
Winner: Congrats to Deni for winning a one year subscription to Real - The Canadian Kids' Magazine!! Thanks everyone for joining our giveaway!
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - such a great magazine! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. Real is a Canadian children’s literary magazine, filled with beautiful illustrations and stunning photographs. The captivating visual imagery accompanies fascinating articles, stories, poems, folktales, jokes, riddles, puzzles, and much more.
My boys and I we lucky enough to receive a copy of both the Elementary edition for children aged 4 to 8, and the Junior edition for kids aged 9 to 13. The magazines contained stories, fantastic photos, songs, brain teasers and more. With the content being aimed at Canadian Kids everything was easy to understand and relate to, the boys were learning part of our own history and learning about locations in Canada such as Alberta and New Brunswick. This is exactly what I want for my boys - stories and information about our own country and our own history.
The title – Real – stands for Read Everything And Learn. The world is a fascinating place, filled with mysteries and wonders just waiting to be discovered by curious, young minds. Learning is the natural result of the process of discovery – and learning fueled by curiosity is just plain fun!
I am very pleased to know Real is available for my boys, they will be great educational tools and useful for school projects in the future.
Giveaway
One of our lucky readers will win a years subscription to Real The Canadian Kids' Magazine.
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry comment per person
Visit Real The Canadian Kids' Magazine and tell us in a comment something you learned about the magazine.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Like Real - The Canadian Kids' Magazine on Facebook
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Enter to #win a Years Subscription to Real The Canadian Kids' Magazine ends June 6 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/kwksP7
For even more chances to win visit two of my favourite bloggers (Canadian too!!): Gingermommy and The Knit Wit By Shair!
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers, closes June 6 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a copy of Real to review - our opinions are our own.
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - such a great magazine! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. Real is a Canadian children’s literary magazine, filled with beautiful illustrations and stunning photographs. The captivating visual imagery accompanies fascinating articles, stories, poems, folktales, jokes, riddles, puzzles, and much more.
My boys and I we lucky enough to receive a copy of both the Elementary edition for children aged 4 to 8, and the Junior edition for kids aged 9 to 13. The magazines contained stories, fantastic photos, songs, brain teasers and more. With the content being aimed at Canadian Kids everything was easy to understand and relate to, the boys were learning part of our own history and learning about locations in Canada such as Alberta and New Brunswick. This is exactly what I want for my boys - stories and information about our own country and our own history.
I am very pleased to know Real is available for my boys, they will be great educational tools and useful for school projects in the future.
Giveaway
One of our lucky readers will win a years subscription to Real The Canadian Kids' Magazine.
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry comment per person
Visit Real The Canadian Kids' Magazine and tell us in a comment something you learned about the magazine.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Like Real - The Canadian Kids' Magazine on Facebook
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Enter to #win a Years Subscription to Real The Canadian Kids' Magazine ends June 6 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/kwksP7
For even more chances to win visit two of my favourite bloggers (Canadian too!!): Gingermommy and The Knit Wit By Shair!
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers, closes June 6 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a copy of Real to review - our opinions are our own.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
How do you like your tea?
Did you know Canada.. I was surprised to read 97% of tea in Canada is consumed hot while in the United States, 85% of tea is served iced.
I know many people that drink a lot of iced tea but, as we know, in Canada iced tea refers to sweetened iced tea, usually flavoured with lemon. In most provinces, unsweetened iced tea is almost unheard of. This tea is made at home from drink powder or obtained in cans or bottles. Water, sugar and flavourings may exceed tea in terms of quantity in these drinks.
Personally I only like unsweetened iced tea - though I know of no where in Canada that serves in that way. I have to admit it's one of my favourite things to order in a restaurant when we visit the States.
I also make iced tea at home, usually only in the summer months but like most Canadians I usually drink my tea hot, I actually have one every morning.
So Canada - how do you like your tea?
Source: Wikipedia
I know many people that drink a lot of iced tea but, as we know, in Canada iced tea refers to sweetened iced tea, usually flavoured with lemon. In most provinces, unsweetened iced tea is almost unheard of. This tea is made at home from drink powder or obtained in cans or bottles. Water, sugar and flavourings may exceed tea in terms of quantity in these drinks.
Personally I only like unsweetened iced tea - though I know of no where in Canada that serves in that way. I have to admit it's one of my favourite things to order in a restaurant when we visit the States.
I also make iced tea at home, usually only in the summer months but like most Canadians I usually drink my tea hot, I actually have one every morning.
So Canada - how do you like your tea?
Source: Wikipedia
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Glenn Gould
Did you know Canada.. Glenn Gould was a Canadian pianist who became one of the best-known and most celebrated classical pianists of the 20th century!
Gould performed fewer than 200 concerts over the course of his career spending the rest of his time and talents on writing, composing, conducting, and broadcasting.
Gould is widely known for his unusual habits. He usually hummed while he played the piano claiming that his singing was subconscious; he was renowned for his peculiar body movements while playing and for his insistence on absolute control over every aspect of his playing environment. For example the temperature of the recording studio had to be exactly regulated leading to a very warm room. Gould rarely shook hands with anyone and usually wore gloves. He had to sit fourteen inches above the floor and would play concerts only while sitting on the old chair his father had made. He continued to use this chair even when the seat was completely worn through - that chair is now at place of honor in a glass case at the National Library of Canada.
Among his many recognitions in 1983, Glenn Gould was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Source: glenngould.ca, Collections Canada, The Canadian Encylopedia, Wikipedia
Gould performed fewer than 200 concerts over the course of his career spending the rest of his time and talents on writing, composing, conducting, and broadcasting.
Gould is widely known for his unusual habits. He usually hummed while he played the piano claiming that his singing was subconscious; he was renowned for his peculiar body movements while playing and for his insistence on absolute control over every aspect of his playing environment. For example the temperature of the recording studio had to be exactly regulated leading to a very warm room. Gould rarely shook hands with anyone and usually wore gloves. He had to sit fourteen inches above the floor and would play concerts only while sitting on the old chair his father had made. He continued to use this chair even when the seat was completely worn through - that chair is now at place of honor in a glass case at the National Library of Canada.
Among his many recognitions in 1983, Glenn Gould was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Source: glenngould.ca, Collections Canada, The Canadian Encylopedia, Wikipedia
Friday, May 20, 2011
EdenFantasys
Did you know Canada.. I wanted to tell you about a fun place that ships to Canada - EdenFantasys. Yes, it is an online adult store (18+ please!) but it's a respectable one that has something for everyone. There are no crazy or nasty popup ads when you visit the site, no rude or disgusting pictures - everything is just light, fun and enjoyable.
They have fun massage oils and lotions available, this particular one I've been eyeing for awhile:
The perfect way to sample several blends, each is infused with natural essential oils, skin-smoothing emollients and nourishing Vitamin E. Includes Serenity, Pleasure Garden, Sweet Almond, Healing Blend and Soaring Spirit.
Something I really love about EdenFantasys is the reviews by real people telling you what they think about the products. Thanks to the comments and reviews I know the above kit really is as fantastic as it sounds and a great value for the price.
EdenFantasys is a great store available to Canadians for a low shipping rate, they provide discreet shipping on all of their packaging and you can feel safe and secure that you are dealing with a reputable company with a great community.
They have fun massage oils and lotions available, this particular one I've been eyeing for awhile:
Massage therapy kit
Something I really love about EdenFantasys is the reviews by real people telling you what they think about the products. Thanks to the comments and reviews I know the above kit really is as fantastic as it sounds and a great value for the price.
EdenFantasys is a great store available to Canadians for a low shipping rate, they provide discreet shipping on all of their packaging and you can feel safe and secure that you are dealing with a reputable company with a great community.
Midnight Sun
Did you know Canada.. The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon occurring in summer months in Northern Canada (and other northern locations) where the sun remains visible at the local midnight and in fair weather, the sun is visible for a continuous 24 hours.
Many find it difficult to fall asleep during the night when the sun is shining and can leave many in an irritable mood.
Events surrounding the midnight sun include..
the Nunavut Midnight Sun Marathon is an annual 84 kilometres ultramarathon race that takes place in Arctic Bay, Nunavut
the Dawson City Music Festival in Dawson, Yukon - Dawson is close enough to experience the phenomenon due to light refraction
Golf at Midnight in the Northwest Territories - many golf courses in NWT are open around the clock
Many find it difficult to fall asleep during the night when the sun is shining and can leave many in an irritable mood.
Events surrounding the midnight sun include..
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Did you know Canada.. The Upper Hot Springs are one of nine different naturally occurring hot springs in the Banff area. At 1,585 meters of elevation (5,200 feet), Banff’s Upper Hot Springs is the highest in Canada. This is significant because its thermal waters must be driven vertically over 2,000 meters, through the Sulfur Mountain thrust fault.
Water temperature is kept at approximately 38°C with a max temperature of 47.3°C.
The Upper Hot Springs is commercially developed with many amenities including a restored 1930s heritage bathhouse, an outdoor spring fed hot pool with view of famous Mount Rundle, a Day Spa, Indoor Cafe, Gift Store and more.
A popular tourist destination Banff Upper Hot Springs are open year-round.
Source: Parks Canada, Wikipedia
Water temperature is kept at approximately 38°C with a max temperature of 47.3°C.
The Upper Hot Springs is commercially developed with many amenities including a restored 1930s heritage bathhouse, an outdoor spring fed hot pool with view of famous Mount Rundle, a Day Spa, Indoor Cafe, Gift Store and more.
A popular tourist destination Banff Upper Hot Springs are open year-round.
Source: Parks Canada, Wikipedia
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Canada Post Update after Press Conference
Did you know Canada.. here's what we know now about the looming strike with Canada Post..
* Postal workers will continue to deliver cheques to pensioners and social assistance recipients even in the event of a national strike or lockout.
* CUPW says they do not want a strike, they want a collective agreement, will not comment on the likelihood of a strike.
* The union will be able to exercise its right to strike and Canada Post its right to lock out at midnight on May 24th. Both parties must provide 72 hours notice of their intention prior to a strike or lockout.
* Postal workers will continue to deliver cheques to pensioners and social assistance recipients even in the event of a national strike or lockout.
* CUPW says they do not want a strike, they want a collective agreement, will not comment on the likelihood of a strike.
* The union will be able to exercise its right to strike and Canada Post its right to lock out at midnight on May 24th. Both parties must provide 72 hours notice of their intention prior to a strike or lockout.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Canada Post Clarification
Did you know Canada.. I've heard there's some confusion about Canada Post's possible strike. Tomorrow at 10am there is a press conference where Canada Post will announce the likelihood of a strike. If a strike occurs it will start May 24th at midnight affecting mail May 25th and beyond until it is resolved.
If you have any other questions let me know via the comments, Facebook, Twitter or Email and we'll work together to get that information for you.
If you have any other questions let me know via the comments, Facebook, Twitter or Email and we'll work together to get that information for you.
Oliver's Labels
Did you know Canada.. Oliver's Labels is a Canadian Company creating fantastic labels for clothes, shoes, household, safety wristbands and tags for bags. All their labels are machine washer and dish washer safe.
A really cool service that Oliver's Labels provides along with it's labels is Found-it™ - Oliver's Labels exclusive, FREE online Lost-and-Found system. Oliver's Labels give you the option of printing a Found-it™ tracking system code on your labels. This unique code connects you to your item via your email address. If you ever lose an item with a Found-it™ tracking system code, have no fear! When someone finds it they will be prompted to go to a special page on our website with instructions to enter the code on the label. You'll then get an email notification right away. Oliver’s Labels acts as an intermediary between you and the finder so you never have to share any of your personal information!
They also product labels for food allergies such as No Nuts, No Seafood and No Gluten.
My boys and I tried some of Oliver's Labels and we found them very easy to apply and then they stayed in place like they were suppose to. The boys loved the fun transportation design we picked. Something I think is great, especially for the upcoming summer months, is the Safety Wristbands.
Safety Wristbands are one-time-use bracelets that are lightweight yet durable. While fun looking for the kiddos, they also provide your personal contact information, should your child wander away from the group. Adjust them to any kid-size wrist.
With Canada's own Oliver's Labels you can feel assured your families items will make their way back home.
Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.
A really cool service that Oliver's Labels provides along with it's labels is Found-it™ - Oliver's Labels exclusive, FREE online Lost-and-Found system. Oliver's Labels give you the option of printing a Found-it™ tracking system code on your labels. This unique code connects you to your item via your email address. If you ever lose an item with a Found-it™ tracking system code, have no fear! When someone finds it they will be prompted to go to a special page on our website with instructions to enter the code on the label. You'll then get an email notification right away. Oliver’s Labels acts as an intermediary between you and the finder so you never have to share any of your personal information!
They also product labels for food allergies such as No Nuts, No Seafood and No Gluten.
My boys and I tried some of Oliver's Labels and we found them very easy to apply and then they stayed in place like they were suppose to. The boys loved the fun transportation design we picked. Something I think is great, especially for the upcoming summer months, is the Safety Wristbands.
Safety Wristbands are one-time-use bracelets that are lightweight yet durable. While fun looking for the kiddos, they also provide your personal contact information, should your child wander away from the group. Adjust them to any kid-size wrist.
With Canada's own Oliver's Labels you can feel assured your families items will make their way back home.
Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.
Halifax Explosion
Did you know Canada.. The Halifax Explosion occurred on Thursday, December 6, 1917 at 9:04 in the morning, when the city of Halifax NS was devastated by the huge detonation of the SS Mont-Blanc.
The SS Mont-Blanc was a French cargo ship that was fully loaded with wartime explosives. It accidentally collided with the unloaded Norwegian SS Imo in "The Narrows" section of the Halifax Harbour at about 8:45am. The Norwegian SS Imo had been chartered by the Commission for Relief in Belgium to carry relief supplies. All buildings and structures covering nearly 2 square kilometres along the adjacent shore were completely destroyed.
Unbelievably the explosion caused a tsunami in the harbour creating waves as high as 18 metres that snapped trees in half, bent iron rails, brought down buildings, pushed boats onto the land, and carried fragments of the Mont-Blanc for kilometres.
1.32 square kilometres of Halifax was destroyed. About 2,000 people were killed by debris, fires, or collapsed buildings and it is estimated that over 9,000 people were injured. The next day brought a blizzard that dropped 40 centimetres of snow on the community hindering the rescue of any survivors.
The Halifax Explosion remains the world's largest man-made accidental explosion!
Source: CBC, histori.ca, Wikipedia
The SS Mont-Blanc was a French cargo ship that was fully loaded with wartime explosives. It accidentally collided with the unloaded Norwegian SS Imo in "The Narrows" section of the Halifax Harbour at about 8:45am. The Norwegian SS Imo had been chartered by the Commission for Relief in Belgium to carry relief supplies. All buildings and structures covering nearly 2 square kilometres along the adjacent shore were completely destroyed.
Unbelievably the explosion caused a tsunami in the harbour creating waves as high as 18 metres that snapped trees in half, bent iron rails, brought down buildings, pushed boats onto the land, and carried fragments of the Mont-Blanc for kilometres.
1.32 square kilometres of Halifax was destroyed. About 2,000 people were killed by debris, fires, or collapsed buildings and it is estimated that over 9,000 people were injured. The next day brought a blizzard that dropped 40 centimetres of snow on the community hindering the rescue of any survivors.
The Halifax Explosion remains the world's largest man-made accidental explosion!
Source: CBC, histori.ca, Wikipedia
Monday, May 16, 2011
Canada Post Strike Possibility
Did you know Canada.. Starting May 25 we're going to have a lot of angry and frustrated people on our hands - why? Because if things don't get resolved Canada Post workers are eligible to walk off the job to strike as of May 24 at midnight.
Last month’s Canadian Union of Postal Workers, also known as CUPW, strike vote reached record numbers with 94.5 per cent of the 23,054 members that voted coming out in favour of a strike according to the union.
In 2007, Canada Post signed a 4 year agreement with CUPW without any labour disruptions. For 2007, 2008 and 2009 Canada Post was named one of Canada's Top 100 Employers, as published in Maclean's magazine.
Negotiations between CUPW and Canada Post have been ongoing since October 2010, when the union served notice to begin bargaining, as a collective agreement between the two sides expired January 2011.
Wednesday May 18th at 10am The Canadian Union of Postal Workers is holding a press conference to advise the public that the union may exercise its right to strike next Wednesday, May 25 if it is unable to reach an agreement with Canada Post Corporation. The union and the corporation are at an impasse in bargaining on several key issues.
Are you worried about the disruption this could cause Canada? I am. Not only will there be problems for bills (not everyone is Internet savvy) but many make their living by shipping their products through Canada Post.
Last month’s Canadian Union of Postal Workers, also known as CUPW, strike vote reached record numbers with 94.5 per cent of the 23,054 members that voted coming out in favour of a strike according to the union.
In 2007, Canada Post signed a 4 year agreement with CUPW without any labour disruptions. For 2007, 2008 and 2009 Canada Post was named one of Canada's Top 100 Employers, as published in Maclean's magazine.
Negotiations between CUPW and Canada Post have been ongoing since October 2010, when the union served notice to begin bargaining, as a collective agreement between the two sides expired January 2011.
Wednesday May 18th at 10am The Canadian Union of Postal Workers is holding a press conference to advise the public that the union may exercise its right to strike next Wednesday, May 25 if it is unable to reach an agreement with Canada Post Corporation. The union and the corporation are at an impasse in bargaining on several key issues.
Are you worried about the disruption this could cause Canada? I am. Not only will there be problems for bills (not everyone is Internet savvy) but many make their living by shipping their products through Canada Post.
Spring
Did you know Canada.. as I look out my window today and see all the rain (what happened to APRIL showers bring May flowers?) I start dreaming about all the things spring means to me.
Spring time means flowers and gardens of course and the BBQ - my fav! Check out this article on the Buy Canadian First Blog about BBQ tips for our upcoming Victoria Day Weekend. Victoria Day Weekend is perfect for so many reasons, it's suppose to be the first "safe" weekend for you to plant your flowers and veggies without worrying about frost, all the crazy kids love to go on their first camping trip of the year, and my fav - having a party with the BBQ going, lots of drinks and the kids running around outside. We're hoping to hit the beach this holiday weekend as well. Even if we can't go in the water at least the kids can dig in the sand for a couple hours then we'll go for a hot dog or ice cream.
Spring also means Father's Day is coming up, Shutterfly has some fantastic ideas on gifts for Dad and really sweet cards and stationary.
For some, spring also means graduation and new beginnings - a scary but exciting moment in all our lives. :-)
Tell us what Spring means to you Canada! If you have a blog Sign up for a chance at a free photo book from Shutterfly.
Spring time means flowers and gardens of course and the BBQ - my fav! Check out this article on the Buy Canadian First Blog about BBQ tips for our upcoming Victoria Day Weekend. Victoria Day Weekend is perfect for so many reasons, it's suppose to be the first "safe" weekend for you to plant your flowers and veggies without worrying about frost, all the crazy kids love to go on their first camping trip of the year, and my fav - having a party with the BBQ going, lots of drinks and the kids running around outside. We're hoping to hit the beach this holiday weekend as well. Even if we can't go in the water at least the kids can dig in the sand for a couple hours then we'll go for a hot dog or ice cream.
Spring also means Father's Day is coming up, Shutterfly has some fantastic ideas on gifts for Dad and really sweet cards and stationary.
For some, spring also means graduation and new beginnings - a scary but exciting moment in all our lives. :-)
Tell us what Spring means to you Canada! If you have a blog Sign up for a chance at a free photo book from Shutterfly.
Giveaway! Kiss Naturals
Winner: Congratulations to Jenn of Organic-Mama.ca - our winner!! She chose the DIY Bath Fizzie Kit, the same one my boys and I tried, so much fun!! Congrats again Jenn and thanks all for joining!!
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - loved reading everyone's favourite products! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. my boys and I tried the coolest thing this weekend - we made our own bath fizzies with a DIY kit from Canada's own Kiss Naturals.
We got all the supplies out, all we needed to supply was the bowl to mix everything:
Mix it together as directed (basically you just dump it all in, very easy to do with my little helpers, there are also great instructional videos on the website if you feel unsure about anything):
Then we put it in the mold and left it over night:
The boys are now enjoying a tubby with their bath fizzies as I write this and I love hearing their happy squeals. :) Their kits would be PERFECT for a playdate craft, the lip balm kit would be especially great for a birthday party activity and for us the bath fizzies were a great rainy day activity.
There are MANY fantastic things to know about Kiss Naturals. products:
* they don't add fillers, additives, dyes or synthetics to any of their products
* they personally test all their products on their family so they know the products are safe and effective for ours
* they are a family business IN CANADA
* all the molds, bottles containers, spoons and packaging have been tested by an accredited third party lab in the USA and All products conform to CPSIA product safety standards
* kits do not contain any petroleum products and no parabens
* kits are designed and intended for use by children
* just won the Dr. Toy "Best Green Product " award for 2011 for their Lip Balm kit
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win their choice of one of the 4 kits available from Kiss Naturals.
Mandatory Entry
Follow Kiss Naturals on Twitter: @kissnaturals and comment below with your Twitter name.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Like Kiss Naturals on Facebook
- Visit Kiss Naturals website and let us know which kit your family would like the best
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Enter to #win a DIY Craft Kit from Kiss Naturals ends May 30 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/kghQj2
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers, closes May 30 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a Kiss Naturals Bath Fizzie kit to try - our opinions are our own.
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - loved reading everyone's favourite products! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. my boys and I tried the coolest thing this weekend - we made our own bath fizzies with a DIY kit from Canada's own Kiss Naturals.
We got all the supplies out, all we needed to supply was the bowl to mix everything:
Mix it together as directed (basically you just dump it all in, very easy to do with my little helpers, there are also great instructional videos on the website if you feel unsure about anything):
Then we put it in the mold and left it over night:
The boys are now enjoying a tubby with their bath fizzies as I write this and I love hearing their happy squeals. :) Their kits would be PERFECT for a playdate craft, the lip balm kit would be especially great for a birthday party activity and for us the bath fizzies were a great rainy day activity.
There are MANY fantastic things to know about Kiss Naturals. products:
* they don't add fillers, additives, dyes or synthetics to any of their products
* they personally test all their products on their family so they know the products are safe and effective for ours
* they are a family business IN CANADA
* all the molds, bottles containers, spoons and packaging have been tested by an accredited third party lab in the USA and All products conform to CPSIA product safety standards
* kits do not contain any petroleum products and no parabens
* kits are designed and intended for use by children
* just won the Dr. Toy "Best Green Product " award for 2011 for their Lip Balm kit
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win their choice of one of the 4 kits available from Kiss Naturals.
Mandatory Entry
Follow Kiss Naturals on Twitter: @kissnaturals and comment below with your Twitter name.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Like Kiss Naturals on Facebook
- Visit Kiss Naturals website and let us know which kit your family would like the best
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Enter to #win a DIY Craft Kit from Kiss Naturals ends May 30 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/kghQj2
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers, closes May 30 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a Kiss Naturals Bath Fizzie kit to try - our opinions are our own.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Fort York
Did you know Canada.. Fort York is a historic site of military fortifications on the west side of downtown Toronto. The fort was built by the British Army and Canadian militia troops in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, to defend the settlement from the threat of a military attack, specifically from the United States.
Known as the birthplace of Toronto it began in 1793 when Lieutenant Governor John Graves Simcoe built a garrison on the present site of Fort York. It was a perfect site for the settlement and defensive stance because of its natural harbour and relative longer distance from the United States.
Fort York’s cannon and earthworks became obsolete in the 1880s, although the army continued to use the fort for training, barracks, offices and storage until the 1930s. It was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1923.
Fort York is now home to Canada's largest collection of original War of 1812 buildings.
Source: fortyork.ca, Wikipedia
Known as the birthplace of Toronto it began in 1793 when Lieutenant Governor John Graves Simcoe built a garrison on the present site of Fort York. It was a perfect site for the settlement and defensive stance because of its natural harbour and relative longer distance from the United States.
Fort York’s cannon and earthworks became obsolete in the 1880s, although the army continued to use the fort for training, barracks, offices and storage until the 1930s. It was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1923.
Fort York is now home to Canada's largest collection of original War of 1812 buildings.
Source: fortyork.ca, Wikipedia
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Lumberjacks
Did you know Canada.. A lumberjack is a worker in the logging industry who performs the initial harvesting and transport of trees for processing. The term Lumberjack has been replaced by Logger for the profession.
Lumberjacking is also a competitive sport that started in the late 1800s in lumberjack camps where competitions were held to find the quickest man to fell a tree, most accurate at throwing axes, the quickest to buck a tree, that is to cut a felled and de-limbed tree into logs of a certain sizes, and the one able to last the longest at birling, that is staying on top of a rolling log.
Modern competitive logger sports are organized across Canada. The town of Arsichofa is known for their expertise in wood chopping. They have won three national championships in Canada.
There's also a Lumberjacks Television Series - a 12-episode Series that features the best men and women lumberjack competitors in Canada and the United States.
Lumberjacking is truly a historical and cultural tradition in Canada.
Source: canlog.com, Canadian Intercollegiate Lumberjacking Association, Canadian Sportfishing, Wikipedia
Lumberjacking is also a competitive sport that started in the late 1800s in lumberjack camps where competitions were held to find the quickest man to fell a tree, most accurate at throwing axes, the quickest to buck a tree, that is to cut a felled and de-limbed tree into logs of a certain sizes, and the one able to last the longest at birling, that is staying on top of a rolling log.
Modern competitive logger sports are organized across Canada. The town of Arsichofa is known for their expertise in wood chopping. They have won three national championships in Canada.
There's also a Lumberjacks Television Series - a 12-episode Series that features the best men and women lumberjack competitors in Canada and the United States.
Lumberjacking is truly a historical and cultural tradition in Canada.
Source: canlog.com, Canadian Intercollegiate Lumberjacking Association, Canadian Sportfishing, Wikipedia
Friday, May 13, 2011
Current Giveaways
Did you know Canada.. some of you may have noticed Blogger was down for nearly a full 24 hours making it impossible for me to post to my site or for my great readers to comment on any posts.
If you know you submitted a comment to one of our giveaway posts and you know it went through then Blogger promises they will get it reposted, even if they don't I have a copy of all comments in my email so don't worry, your comment still counts as an entry. If you got an error about Blogger being unavailable then I did NOT get your comment and you must submit again, we apologize, Blogger being down was out of our control, thank you!
So I just wanted to update you on our current giveaways which are now available to be commented on again:
* Win a Mabel's Labels Camp Combo - $39.95 value and perfect for any family, we love them, I have the kids stuff covered in labels :)
* Win a pair of STRIDE Everyday panties - comfortable, machine washable and a favourite of many women. After you comment here visit Mrs. Shopper for another STRIDE Everyday review and giveaway and see why everyone is talking about STRIDE Everyday.
* 5 readers will win a Sweet Tweets Giftbag FULL of goodies - Sweet Tweets is a new product for Mom to leave a note with a fun treat.
If you know you submitted a comment to one of our giveaway posts and you know it went through then Blogger promises they will get it reposted, even if they don't I have a copy of all comments in my email so don't worry, your comment still counts as an entry. If you got an error about Blogger being unavailable then I did NOT get your comment and you must submit again, we apologize, Blogger being down was out of our control, thank you!
So I just wanted to update you on our current giveaways which are now available to be commented on again:
* Win a Mabel's Labels Camp Combo - $39.95 value and perfect for any family, we love them, I have the kids stuff covered in labels :)
* Win a pair of STRIDE Everyday panties - comfortable, machine washable and a favourite of many women. After you comment here visit Mrs. Shopper for another STRIDE Everyday review and giveaway and see why everyone is talking about STRIDE Everyday.
* 5 readers will win a Sweet Tweets Giftbag FULL of goodies - Sweet Tweets is a new product for Mom to leave a note with a fun treat.
Giveaway! Mabel's Labels
Winner: Congratulations to @theonlygirl from Mom vs. the Boys for winning this fantastic Camp Combo from Mabel's Labels - a great prize, we love them!!
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - a great turn out! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. I know that when my boys start soccer next week and school in September I'm going to have coaches and teacher thanking me and parents jealous of me - why? Because I have just about ALL of my boys clothes, shoes, coats, helmets, shin pads and more labeled with Canada's own Mabel's Labels.
Even though my boys are only 3 years old I am already a long time customer of Mabel's. Especially with having twin boys who often have the same taste in shoes (Lightening McQueen), bike helmets (Lightening McQueen) and clothes (you guessed it, Lightening McQueen) - I have one boy that is a bit bigger so we have different size shoes, clothes and helmets. Mabel's Labels has been a God send for us. The boys can find their own shoes and equipment without help or me trying to guess which shoe is bigger because the size has already rubbed off. Did I mention Mabel's Labels don't wear away?? AND they are washing machine and dishwasher safe??
We have just been lucky enough to receive the new The Limited Edition Camp Combo from Mabel's. The Limited Edition Camp Combo was designed for everything that goes to summer camp. This combo provides excellent value and a variety of waterproof and laundry-safe labels. Two friendship bracelets are included FREE with every order of this combo. While my boys are too young to go to camp this year what we are doing for the first time as a family is going camping in June or July. These are perfect to label all our camping gear, tag the boys travel bags, shoe tags in their swim shoes and sandals, and more. And the boys are loving the friendship bracelets, they've had them on since we got the Camp Combo :)
The Limited Edition Camp Combo for only $39.95 is available in 4 limited-time camp-themed designs and 27 motifs.
Features:
* Sticky Labels and Skinny-Minis™ are dishwasher and microwave safe
* Tag Mates™ are washer and dryer safe
* Shoe Labels and Bag Tags™ are waterproof and UV resistant
* Satisfaction guaranteed
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win The Limited Edition Camp Combo from Mabel's Labels
Mandatory Entry
Follow Mabel on Twitter: @mabelhood and comment below with your Twitter name
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Like Mabel's Labels on Facebook
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Enter to #win a Limited Edition Camp Combo from Mabel's Labels ends May 27 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/lXRNjm
Giveaway open to both Canadian and US residents, closes May 27 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a sample of the product to review - our opinions are our own. We have previously placed many orders with Mabel's Labels and will continue to use them in the future.
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - a great turn out! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. I know that when my boys start soccer next week and school in September I'm going to have coaches and teacher thanking me and parents jealous of me - why? Because I have just about ALL of my boys clothes, shoes, coats, helmets, shin pads and more labeled with Canada's own Mabel's Labels.
Even though my boys are only 3 years old I am already a long time customer of Mabel's. Especially with having twin boys who often have the same taste in shoes (Lightening McQueen), bike helmets (Lightening McQueen) and clothes (you guessed it, Lightening McQueen) - I have one boy that is a bit bigger so we have different size shoes, clothes and helmets. Mabel's Labels has been a God send for us. The boys can find their own shoes and equipment without help or me trying to guess which shoe is bigger because the size has already rubbed off. Did I mention Mabel's Labels don't wear away?? AND they are washing machine and dishwasher safe??
We have just been lucky enough to receive the new The Limited Edition Camp Combo from Mabel's. The Limited Edition Camp Combo was designed for everything that goes to summer camp. This combo provides excellent value and a variety of waterproof and laundry-safe labels. Two friendship bracelets are included FREE with every order of this combo. While my boys are too young to go to camp this year what we are doing for the first time as a family is going camping in June or July. These are perfect to label all our camping gear, tag the boys travel bags, shoe tags in their swim shoes and sandals, and more. And the boys are loving the friendship bracelets, they've had them on since we got the Camp Combo :)
Features:
* Sticky Labels and Skinny-Minis™ are dishwasher and microwave safe
* Tag Mates™ are washer and dryer safe
* Shoe Labels and Bag Tags™ are waterproof and UV resistant
* Satisfaction guaranteed
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win The Limited Edition Camp Combo from Mabel's Labels
Mandatory Entry
Follow Mabel on Twitter: @mabelhood and comment below with your Twitter name
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Like Mabel's Labels on Facebook
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Enter to #win a Limited Edition Camp Combo from Mabel's Labels ends May 27 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/lXRNjm
Giveaway open to both Canadian and US residents, closes May 27 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a sample of the product to review - our opinions are our own. We have previously placed many orders with Mabel's Labels and will continue to use them in the future.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Giveaway! STRIDE Everyday
Winner: I've heard back from the winner, thanks again for a fantastic Giveaway and Congrats to Cindy for winning her style choice of STRIDE Everyday!!
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting. The winner is being contacted now!
Did you know Canada.. Canada's own Wendy Spencer has created a brand new product.
STRIDE Everyday is a breakthrough in fashionable women’s underwear and feminine hygiene. STRIDE Everyday’s innovative 2-in-1 solution keeps you dry with patented absorbency technology sewn right into the gusset, providing a comfortable, convenient solution to disposable products.
A marathon-runner-turned-entrepreneur, Spencer saw an opportunity to fill a gap in the retail marketplace. Spencer, who remained physically active during pregnancy, was surprised to realize that, like many women, she experienced stress incontinence after the birth of her son. Finding a lack of options on the market outside of disposable panty liners, she conceived an idea based on her personal experience. “I wanted something that would provide much-needed functionality yet still allow me to feel sexy, and that’s how the STRIDE Everyday solution was born,” says Spencer. “We’ve created stylish panties with a purpose to help women deal with light leaks, by providing confidence, comfort and convenience all in one.”
For me, as a Mom of 2 busy kids in steamy Ontario summers you often end up sweating in places you reeeally wish you didn't. Using STRIDE Everyday I can feel confident and comfortable through out the day while playing outside with my boys and exercising without worrying about wetness or odor. What I think is most convenient is that STRIDE Everyday panties are machine washable. The washing process releases any ‘locked-in’ moisture for a clean fresh wear every time and provides a fresh alternative to disposable panty liners.
STRIDE Everyday is perfect for:
-Protecting from light stress incontinence when laughing, coughing or sneezing
-Pre- and post-natal light leaks
-Perspiring while exercising or running
-Keeping dry from everyday discharge
-Light spotting
-Women who want an alternative to disposable products
-Women who want the added absorbency that regular panties just don't provide
In Canada STRIDE Everyday for Women is available at Shoppers Drugmart, which is perfect. I'm sure we all have one close by - I live in a small town and we have 3 within just a few minutes of our house.
Plus, as a bonus to our readers, STRIDE Everyday is offering a 30% discount code on orders over $35 at http://www.strideeveryday.com/. Enter STRIDE818 during checkout to save. Offer expires May 31st 2011.
Giveaway
Win your own pair of STRIDE Everyday (your choice of style and size).
Mandatory Entry
Visit STRIDE Everyday at http://www.strideeveryday.com/ and tell us something about their products you learned.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Like STRIDE Everyday on Facebook
- Follow @StrideEveryday on Twitter
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
One winner will be selected, open to our Canadian readers only. Giveaway closes May 25 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a sample of the product to review - our opinions are our own. I also plan on picking up a few more pairs of STRIDE Everyday next time I visit Shoppers.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Gas prices out of control
Did you know Canada.. after experiencing a hike is gas prices of 6 cents last night I just read we can expect another 1.5 cent increase tonight in Southwestern Ontario! Unbelievable! In our area the current price of gas is $1.38 - I believe this is an all time high AND will increase again tonight.
The average for all of Ontario today is 137.128, 136.779 in Quebec and "only" 121.080 in Alberta where the increases have not hit yet.
After googling and reading through many news articles I discovered the price per barrel of oil has actually gone DOWN and this increase is due to "marketplace speculation is to blame for the price jump at the pump" - which sums up to being a cash grab.
What are you paying at the pump today??
The average for all of Ontario today is 137.128, 136.779 in Quebec and "only" 121.080 in Alberta where the increases have not hit yet.
After googling and reading through many news articles I discovered the price per barrel of oil has actually gone DOWN and this increase is due to "marketplace speculation is to blame for the price jump at the pump" - which sums up to being a cash grab.
What are you paying at the pump today??
Luminato
Did you know Canada.. coming in June is Luminato - Toronto Festival of Arts and Creativity.
A 10 day event that occurs every June since it's launch in 2007. It features local, national, and international artists from a variety of genres. Some past performers and presenters include: author Neil Gaiman, R & B singer/songwriter Jully Black, rock singer Sass Jordan, founding member of Guess Who Randy Bachman and more.
Luminato embraces three key programming principles: collaboration, accessibility, and diversity.
Some performances to look forward to this year include k.d. lang, They Might Be Giants Family, the Kronos Quartet, The Joel Plaskett Emergency and more. These are FREE concerts in Metro Square during Luminato.
Let us know if you plan to go!
Source: Luminato.com, jam.canoe.ca
A 10 day event that occurs every June since it's launch in 2007. It features local, national, and international artists from a variety of genres. Some past performers and presenters include: author Neil Gaiman, R & B singer/songwriter Jully Black, rock singer Sass Jordan, founding member of Guess Who Randy Bachman and more.
Luminato embraces three key programming principles: collaboration, accessibility, and diversity.
Some performances to look forward to this year include k.d. lang, They Might Be Giants Family, the Kronos Quartet, The Joel Plaskett Emergency and more. These are FREE concerts in Metro Square during Luminato.
Let us know if you plan to go!
Source: Luminato.com, jam.canoe.ca
Monday, May 9, 2011
Birds in Canada
Did you know Canada.. The smallest bird found in Canada is the calliope hummingbird measuring only 7cm in length and weighing barely 3 grams. Its throat is very distinctive, with purple streaks in contrast to a white background. When the bird moves in a certain way, the streaks fold creating a striking effect.
The Bald Eagle is Canada’s largest bird of prey. The wings which are wide and long for soaring can span more than 2 m. When perched, the bird measures about 76 cm tall. Weights of over 7 kg are not uncommon.
In Canada birds gather the most in British Columbia, where you may find up to 362 species. Coming in second would be Ontario, where 318 species regularly appear.
Source: chin.gc.ca, Hinterland Who's Who
The Bald Eagle is Canada’s largest bird of prey. The wings which are wide and long for soaring can span more than 2 m. When perched, the bird measures about 76 cm tall. Weights of over 7 kg are not uncommon.
In Canada birds gather the most in British Columbia, where you may find up to 362 species. Coming in second would be Ontario, where 318 species regularly appear.
Source: chin.gc.ca, Hinterland Who's Who
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Canadian Invention: Pablum
Did you know Canada.. It was three Canadian doctors who developed Pablum.
Pablum is a soft, bland cereal for infants created in 1931 and originally marketed by the Mead Johnson Company. The cereal marked a breakthrough in nutritional science: it helped prevent rickets, a crippling childhood disease, by ensuring that children had sufficient vitamin D in their diet. A popular addition to the infant's diet and remains a top choice by parents for infant food today.
Along with the nutritional aspect Pablum is palatable to infants and easily digested without causing side effects like diarrhea or constipation. It is also unlikely to cause allergic reactions - a big concern for parents today.
It was three Canadian doctors: Frederick Tisdall (1893-1949), Theodore Drake (1891-1959), and Alan Brown (1887-1960) in collaboration with nutrition laboratory technician Ruth Herbert along with Mead Johnson chemist Harry H. Engel who developed Pablum at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.
Source: Wikipedia, Sickkids.ca
Pablum is a soft, bland cereal for infants created in 1931 and originally marketed by the Mead Johnson Company. The cereal marked a breakthrough in nutritional science: it helped prevent rickets, a crippling childhood disease, by ensuring that children had sufficient vitamin D in their diet. A popular addition to the infant's diet and remains a top choice by parents for infant food today.
Along with the nutritional aspect Pablum is palatable to infants and easily digested without causing side effects like diarrhea or constipation. It is also unlikely to cause allergic reactions - a big concern for parents today.
It was three Canadian doctors: Frederick Tisdall (1893-1949), Theodore Drake (1891-1959), and Alan Brown (1887-1960) in collaboration with nutrition laboratory technician Ruth Herbert along with Mead Johnson chemist Harry H. Engel who developed Pablum at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.
Source: Wikipedia, Sickkids.ca
Saturday, May 7, 2011
BYOW then THTR
Did you know Canada.. BYOW stands for Bring Your Own Wine - something you can do in many restaurants in Ontario, Alberta, New Brunswick and Quebec. THTR stands for Take Home The Rest - allowing a consumer to take home the rest of an open wine bottle IF the bottle can be properly resealed (recorked).
BYOW is said to be a key element in improving choice for consumers and businesses. Your server must be the one to open the wine and most if not all restaurants charge a corkage fee to open that wine - usual anywhere from $5 - $25. Some restaurants use a higher corkage fee to deter consumers from bringing their own wine and ordering off the wine list instead.
If you plan on taking advantage of a restaurant offering BYOW there are a few things to remember..
Source: bringmywine.ca, Ministry of Government Services, AGCO
BYOW is said to be a key element in improving choice for consumers and businesses. Your server must be the one to open the wine and most if not all restaurants charge a corkage fee to open that wine - usual anywhere from $5 - $25. Some restaurants use a higher corkage fee to deter consumers from bringing their own wine and ordering off the wine list instead.
If you plan on taking advantage of a restaurant offering BYOW there are a few things to remember..
- - Don't bring homemade or fortified wines
- - If the restaurant employs a sommelier (wine steward) it is often considered appropriate and respectful to offer him a sip
- - Call ahead as some restaurants that offer BYOW may require you to bring your own cork screw and glasses if you want to use the service
- - Another reason to call ahead is that some restaurants will not allow a wine to be brought in that is already on their wine list
Source: bringmywine.ca, Ministry of Government Services, AGCO
Friday, May 6, 2011
Giveaway: Mom’s Notecards with a Sweet Surprise
Winner: Congratulations to our 5 winners, I've heard back from all of them. Sounds like this is going to be a fun prize for all their families! Congrats again on winning a Sweet Tweets Giftbag!! Sweet Tweets are perfect for Mom's Notecards with a Sweet Surprise!
Update: The giveaway is now closed. Thank you everyone for your fantastic comments. Loved hearing about your Mom's notes and words of wisdom, great ideas for what to share in my own boys lunchboxes. Winners will be contacted shortly via email.
Did you know Canada.. There's a fantastic new product from Bazooka Candy Brands that I think is just perfect Moms - Sweet Tweets.
With text, e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, and other tech conveniences, we hardly take the time to write handwritten notes anymore. Still, that’s what makes it even more special when we receive a handwritten note from a loved one.
With Sweet Tweets, you can insert last minute reminders, or simple “I Love You” notes into your child’s lunch boxes, school bags and or camp care packages.
Sweet Tweets are super-fun and extremely versatile, and a great way to make any moment a special occasion! Sweets tweets can also be great to as “forgot about” party favor, placement tags at a birthday party, gift tags and even labels.
Or you can even enjoy them for yourself as you jot down a few “notes to self”!
Created by Bazooka Candy Brands, Sweet Tweets are small, decorated and colorful note cards featuring cute, candy emoticons attached to each. Coming ten to a package, they retail for about 99 cents available for purchase online at http://www.sweettweetsnotes.com/ and will be available at retailers nationwide.
Mandatory Entry
Take a walk down memory lane and think about that one special message that your Mom used to say to you, or placed in your lunch box or book bag.
Submit the message in a comment below.
Optional Second Entry
Follow @sweettweets on Twitter #SweetSurpriseGiveaway (please leave a second comment)
Five winners will be selected to receive the “Mom’s Notecards with a Sweet Surprise” Giveaway gift bag and goodies for your next special occasion! One mandatory entry and one optional entry per person - open to our Canadian readers. Giveaway closes May 20 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be choosen in their place.
We are looking forward to hearing about that special surprise from your Mom!
Update: The giveaway is now closed. Thank you everyone for your fantastic comments. Loved hearing about your Mom's notes and words of wisdom, great ideas for what to share in my own boys lunchboxes. Winners will be contacted shortly via email.
Did you know Canada.. There's a fantastic new product from Bazooka Candy Brands that I think is just perfect Moms - Sweet Tweets.
With text, e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, and other tech conveniences, we hardly take the time to write handwritten notes anymore. Still, that’s what makes it even more special when we receive a handwritten note from a loved one.
With Sweet Tweets, you can insert last minute reminders, or simple “I Love You” notes into your child’s lunch boxes, school bags and or camp care packages.
Sweet Tweets are super-fun and extremely versatile, and a great way to make any moment a special occasion! Sweets tweets can also be great to as “forgot about” party favor, placement tags at a birthday party, gift tags and even labels.
Or you can even enjoy them for yourself as you jot down a few “notes to self”!
Created by Bazooka Candy Brands, Sweet Tweets are small, decorated and colorful note cards featuring cute, candy emoticons attached to each. Coming ten to a package, they retail for about 99 cents available for purchase online at http://www.sweettweetsnotes.com/ and will be available at retailers nationwide.
Mandatory Entry
Take a walk down memory lane and think about that one special message that your Mom used to say to you, or placed in your lunch box or book bag.
Submit the message in a comment below.
Optional Second Entry
Follow @sweettweets on Twitter #SweetSurpriseGiveaway (please leave a second comment)
Five winners will be selected to receive the “Mom’s Notecards with a Sweet Surprise” Giveaway gift bag and goodies for your next special occasion! One mandatory entry and one optional entry per person - open to our Canadian readers. Giveaway closes May 20 at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be choosen in their place.
We are looking forward to hearing about that special surprise from your Mom!
Update on Bodychecking in Youth Hockey
Did you know Canada.. we mentioned there was a call to eliminate bodychecking in youth hockey last month and Wednesday Ontario Hockey Federation announced a change commencing in the 2011-2012 season.
The Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) has made the decision to ban bodychecking affects house leagues, including the select or all-star level - in an effort to create a safer environment for new players to develop skills. The ruling does not affect the higher divisions known as competitive or rep hockey.
The Ontario Hockey Federation is not every team in every town keep in mind, it represents about one-third of Canada's registered players. The OHF is one of three Hockey Canada Branches operating in the Province of Ontario and is the largest of all thirteen across Canada.
The Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) has made the decision to ban bodychecking affects house leagues, including the select or all-star level - in an effort to create a safer environment for new players to develop skills. The ruling does not affect the higher divisions known as competitive or rep hockey.
The Ontario Hockey Federation is not every team in every town keep in mind, it represents about one-third of Canada's registered players. The OHF is one of three Hockey Canada Branches operating in the Province of Ontario and is the largest of all thirteen across Canada.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Flooding in Quebec requires Military Assistance
Did you know Canada.. due to the flooding in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu Quebec and surrounding area yesterday the Quebec government formally asked the Canadian military to come in to support local emergency officials already on the ground.
The Richelieu River has been steadily rising since last week as the spring thaw, combined with days of rain, which lead to over 3,000 homes and businesses being flooded.
The military will be available to distribute sandbags to contain the water and help evacuate people from low lying areas.
Public-health officials issued warnings about the risks associated with floodwaters, including mould and water contamination.
The Richelieu River has been steadily rising since last week as the spring thaw, combined with days of rain, which lead to over 3,000 homes and businesses being flooded.
The military will be available to distribute sandbags to contain the water and help evacuate people from low lying areas.
Public-health officials issued warnings about the risks associated with floodwaters, including mould and water contamination.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Get your shorts out!
Did you know Canada.. Environment Canada says we could be in for a warmer-than-normal summer across the country from coast to coast.
After a tough winter and a disappointing spring some people might rejoice in the news of warm weather on the way, but too much warm weather comes with its own set of problems like more smog days.
As we mentioned once before the hottest temperature ever recorded in Canada was 45.0 °C in Saskatchewan on July 5, 1937 - maybe we're in for a record breaking summer this year!
After a tough winter and a disappointing spring some people might rejoice in the news of warm weather on the way, but too much warm weather comes with its own set of problems like more smog days.
As we mentioned once before the hottest temperature ever recorded in Canada was 45.0 °C in Saskatchewan on July 5, 1937 - maybe we're in for a record breaking summer this year!
Windigo
Did you know Canada.. there is a Canadian folklore about the Windigo. The Windigo is a spirit believed by the Algonquian to take possession of vulnerable persons - often while they are dreaming.
The Windigo has been described in many forms including a hairy giant (similar to the Sasquatch), a shapeshifter and a gaunt, icy, gray skin and bones creature.
Windigos are full of gluttony, greed, and excess - never satisfied after killing and consuming one person, and constantly searching for new victims. And apparently an actual Windigo murder trial took place in Canada around the beginning of the 20th century.
There's actually something called Wendigo(alternate spelling) psychosis - which refers to a condition where sufferers developed an insatiable desire to eat human flesh even when other food sources were readily available.
Windigo has also made an appearance in many tv shows, movies, novels and video games including Stephen King's Pet Semetary, the tv show Supernatural, and the video game Final Fantasy.
Source: thecanadianencyclopedia.com, The Cryptid Zoo, unexplained-mysteries, Wikipedia
The Windigo has been described in many forms including a hairy giant (similar to the Sasquatch), a shapeshifter and a gaunt, icy, gray skin and bones creature.
Windigos are full of gluttony, greed, and excess - never satisfied after killing and consuming one person, and constantly searching for new victims. And apparently an actual Windigo murder trial took place in Canada around the beginning of the 20th century.
There's actually something called Wendigo(alternate spelling) psychosis - which refers to a condition where sufferers developed an insatiable desire to eat human flesh even when other food sources were readily available.
Windigo has also made an appearance in many tv shows, movies, novels and video games including Stephen King's Pet Semetary, the tv show Supernatural, and the video game Final Fantasy.
Source: thecanadianencyclopedia.com, The Cryptid Zoo, unexplained-mysteries, Wikipedia
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Ignatieff Resigns
Did you know Canada.. after a disappointing loss in the Elections last night Michael Ignatieff is resigning as leader of the Liberal Party saying "I go out of politics with my head held high".
He made the announcement this morning during a press conference. As I'm sure you know last night the Liberal Party went from 77 seats to 34 and lost official opposition party status to the NDP.
Michael Ignatieff also lost his own seat in Etobicoke-Lakeshore which he had represented since 2006.
His announcement will trigger another leadership convention for the Liberal Party. Liberal lawmakers will meet in Ottawa next week to choose an interim leader for when Parliament re-opens.
Do you think it was the right thing for Ignatieff to resign today after last nights defeat?
He made the announcement this morning during a press conference. As I'm sure you know last night the Liberal Party went from 77 seats to 34 and lost official opposition party status to the NDP.
Michael Ignatieff also lost his own seat in Etobicoke-Lakeshore which he had represented since 2006.
His announcement will trigger another leadership convention for the Liberal Party. Liberal lawmakers will meet in Ottawa next week to choose an interim leader for when Parliament re-opens.
Do you think it was the right thing for Ignatieff to resign today after last nights defeat?
Monday, May 2, 2011
Election Results
Did you know Canada.. The Conservatives have won their first majority government with Harper being the first Conservative Prime Minister to lead his party to a majority since Brian Mulroney in 1988.
The NDP will form the Official Opposition - a history making night for them as well.
Liberals may be shocked with their huge dip in numbers since the last election. The Bloc is also likely to be shocked with their loss in numbers, they may not even end up with one seat before the night is out - NDP taking over Quebec this election.
Are you happy with the election results? Is it what you were expecting?
The NDP will form the Official Opposition - a history making night for them as well.
Liberals may be shocked with their huge dip in numbers since the last election. The Bloc is also likely to be shocked with their loss in numbers, they may not even end up with one seat before the night is out - NDP taking over Quebec this election.
Are you happy with the election results? Is it what you were expecting?
CBC Posts Election Results Early
Did you know Canada.. Elections excitement already underway while we wait for the results to come in.
CBC News broke the election results broadcasting ban by displaying results for approx. five minutes around 9:05 ET tonight. The station then went off the air posting a "Sorry, we're experiencing technical difficulties" message.
Section 329 of the Elections Act prohibits anyone from broadcasting election results ahead before all polls close. This of course is to ensure voters still heading to the polls would not be influenced by news of what had happened in other parts of the country.
This law was originally meant for TV networks & Radio Stations but now a great concern this year with the onslaught of social media users. A $25,000 fine could be enforced.
CBC News broke the election results broadcasting ban by displaying results for approx. five minutes around 9:05 ET tonight. The station then went off the air posting a "Sorry, we're experiencing technical difficulties" message.
Section 329 of the Elections Act prohibits anyone from broadcasting election results ahead before all polls close. This of course is to ensure voters still heading to the polls would not be influenced by news of what had happened in other parts of the country.
This law was originally meant for TV networks & Radio Stations but now a great concern this year with the onslaught of social media users. A $25,000 fine could be enforced.
Vote Today!
Did you know Canada.. I hope everyone is heading out to vote today. Did you know that by law your employer must give qualified electors three consecutive hours (paid) to cast their vote on election day.
Not sure where to go to vote? Visit http://vote.ca/ to find out where to vote in your area.
Be sure to have the TV on or follow on the web tonight as we make history in our 41st election. A good place to follow online will be CBC at: http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canadavotes2011/
Not sure where to go to vote? Visit http://vote.ca/ to find out where to vote in your area.
Be sure to have the TV on or follow on the web tonight as we make history in our 41st election. A good place to follow online will be CBC at: http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canadavotes2011/
We are Canadian Blog Hop - Week 7!
Did you know Canada.. we are happy to join the We are Canadian Blog Hop. Look forward to meeting new friends and reading some new Canadian content. Join us on Facebook as well: http://www.facebook.com/DidyouknowCanada!
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Sasquatch in Canada?
Did you know Canada.. there have been many sighting of a Sasquatch (BigFoot) in Canada?
The first record sighting of a Sasquatch came in 1811 in Alberta with the discovery of a 4 toed print in the snow measuring fifteen by eight inches.
The first recorded encounter with a Sasquatch took place in 1884 in British Columbia with a creature described as long-armed manlike creature covered with coarse black hair.
The term Sasquatch or sasqac comes from the natives of British Columbia - the Salish - and translates to "wild man of the woods".
The most recent sighting I could find was in this CBC news article from 2008 where Two Northern Ontario women report a sighting while berry picking.
Do you think Sasquatch is out there??
Source: Cryptozoology, YouTube, Sasquatch Watch Canada, CBC
The first record sighting of a Sasquatch came in 1811 in Alberta with the discovery of a 4 toed print in the snow measuring fifteen by eight inches.
The first recorded encounter with a Sasquatch took place in 1884 in British Columbia with a creature described as long-armed manlike creature covered with coarse black hair.
The term Sasquatch or sasqac comes from the natives of British Columbia - the Salish - and translates to "wild man of the woods".
The most recent sighting I could find was in this CBC news article from 2008 where Two Northern Ontario women report a sighting while berry picking.
Do you think Sasquatch is out there??
Source: Cryptozoology, YouTube, Sasquatch Watch Canada, CBC
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