DAILY TIP DEC 10 2011 HOLIDAY VERSION

DAILY TIP DEC 10 2011

HOLIDAY VERSION

Today's tip is for all the 'gamers' out there. From Super Mario to Zelda and from Portal 2 to NHL 2011, video games have come along way since the dawn of 'Pong'. 

Now you have the choice of game systems (Wii, PlayStation, XBox and all their siblings), extreme graphics, amazing soundtracks and of course all the different games. 

Games can vary in difficulty, age range, amount of players and what type of controllers are required. Speaking with a game specialist is a great way to decide on what to buy. Most electronic stores have a few 'gamers' on staff, so take advantage of their knowledge. 

There is a game out there for everyone. 

Some key things to remember when shopping:

• RPG - Role playing game 
• MMORPG - Massive Multi player online role playing game
• Ratings for games are similar to ratings for movies e.g., E (for everyone)
• Several movies have games that follow the plots e.g., Batman Arkham City, Smurfs, Prince of Persia Sands of Time
• Some games require online registrations and have pay to play features
• Games range in price and some retailers carry pre-owned or offer trade-ins

Sher's Picks

Batman Arkham City

Call of Duty

Lego Harry Potter

Assassin's Creed

Super Mario Kart

Legend of Zelda

NHL 2010

World of WarCraft

Elders Scroll V-Skyrim

http://www.mmorpg.com/

http://www.spike.com/events/video-game-awards-2011

DAILY TIP DEC 9 2011 HOLIDAY VERSION

DAILY TIP DEC 9 2011

HOLIDAY VERSION

No holiday would be complete with the Christmas tree so today's tip is all about the mighty evergreen.

http://www.alouettechristmastreefarm.com/  Alouette Christmas Tree Farm is a great family run farm to pick out your favorite tree. They have pre-cut or if you want to experience a true tradition, cut your own. (make sure to bring the necessary equipment like an ax and twine). 

Alouette also knows that picking out a tree can take awhile so for your convenience, they also have hot chocolate, hot dogs and candy canes. Take a night time 'Polar Express' train ride around the farm, or lounge around the roaring fire drinking a hot cup of cider.

Prices range between $25-$60 for the trees and they are open 7 days a week. Be sure to check out their website for tips on caring for your 'fresh tree'.

Sher's Satirical 12 Days of Christmas

SHER'S SATIRICAL LOOK AT

THE

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

On the first day of ChrisKawzanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

On the second day of ChrisKawzanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me two broken candy canes and a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

On the third day of ChrisKawzanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me three Purdy's Hedgehogs, two broken candy canes and a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

On the fourth day of ChrisKawzanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me four new winter tires, three Purdy's hedgehogs, two broken candy canes and a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

On the fifth day of ChrisKawzanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me FIVE GOLD CANUCK TICKETS, four winter tires, three Purdy's hedgehogs, two broken candy canes and a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

On the sixth day of ChrisKawzanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me six Sexy Sailors, FIVE GOLD CANUCK TICKETS, four winter tires, three Purdy's hedgehogs, two broken candy canes and a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

On the seventh day of ChrisKawzanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me seven gingerbread men, six sexy sailors, FIVE GOLD CANUCK TICKETS, four winter tires, three Purdy's hedgehogs, two broken candy canes and a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

On the eighth day of ChrisKawzanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me eight baby bries, seven gingerbread men, six sexy sailors, FIVE GOLD CANUCK TICKETS, four winter tires, three Purdy's hedgehogs, two broken candy canes and a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

On the ninth day of ChrisKawzanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me nine Big Feast gift cards, eight baby bries, seven gingerbread men, six sexy sailors, FIVE GOLD CANUCK TICKETS, four winter tires, three Purdy's hedgehogs, two broken candy canes and a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

On the tenth day of ChrisKawzanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me ten Tinhorn Creek wines, nine Big Feast gift cards, eight baby bries, seven gingerbread men, six sexy sailors, FIVE GOLD CANUCK TICKETS, four winter tires, three Purdy's hedgehogs, two broken candy canes and a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

On the eleventh day of ChrisKawzanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me eleven pounds of back bacon, ten Tinhorn Creek wines, nine Big Feast gift cards, eight baby bries, seven gingerbread men, six sexy sailors, FIVE GOLD CANUCK TICKETS, four winter tires, three Purdy's hedgehogs, two broken candy canes and a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

On the twelfth day of ChrisKawazanakah my non-traditional spouse gave to me The FLIPPING HUGE VISA BILL for the eleven pounds of back bacon, ten Tinhorn Creek wines, nine Big Feast gift cards, eight baby bries, seven gingerbread men, six sexy sailors, FIVE GOLD CANUCK TICKETS, four winter tires, three Purdy's hedgehogs, two broken candy canes and a Starbucks Eggnog Latte in a car.

Things to Ponder this Holiday Season

Things to Ponder This Holiday Season

With all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we often forget the important things in life. We lose our perspective on humanity and focus on the materialistic society we have unfortunately transitioned into.

This year, I have ten things for you to ponder and how their impact affects you and the world around you. If you do one thing this holiday season, pay something 'forward'. 

Five gifts that are priceless:

Gift the gift of life by giving blood.

Give the gift of hope by giving food.

Give the gift of joy by showing compassion.

Give the gift of prosperity by giving of yourself.

Give the gift of love by allowing love into your heart.

Five things you can never recover no matter how hard you try:

A stone after it's been thrown. 

A word after it's been said. 

An opportunity once it's knocked.

Time once it has ticked by.

A person once they pass away.

Take advantage of every opportunity, every occasion and every moment. To do something that makes humanity stronger, happier and richer because of who you are.

DAILY TIP DEC 8 2011 HOLIDAY VERSION

DAILY TIP DEC 8 2011

HOLIDAY VERSION

Today's tip comes with an exotic twist. 

http://www.culturalelements.com/  

http://www.ganeshmall.com/

Cultural Elements brings the exotic cultures home for Christmas. From handmade jewelry from Bali to the delightful 'Banjara' couple from India.

Cultural Elements has everything from Wall Art to Dining and Entertainment accessories at fantastic prices. 

If you are looking for something a little more exotic, try their sister store Ganesh Mall. From meditation beads to exquisite stationery, you are sure to find a unique gift for that special someone on your list. 

Cultural Elements is happy to provide free shipping within the Continental United States and has reasonable shipping rates elsewhere. With varied methods of payment including 'Google Checkout' and 'Paypal', exotic shopping was never easier.

A PAGAN CHRISTMAS part 7

A PAGAN CHRISTMAS

part 7

Yule Log vs Christmas Tree

The Christmas tree has been a tradition in Christian homes for centuries, but it got it's start in Pagan times as a Yule Log. 

During the Winter Solstice, the Yule log was used as a focal point for celebration. It signified the fertility, eternal life. The Yule log was adorned with holly and candles and lit (similar to the Jewish Menorah). After the Yule tide season was over, the log would be burned to ensure no evil will or spirits would enter the home.

As Christianity took hold, the Pagan tradition morphed into today's Christmas tree.  While today's Christmas tree doesn't resemble it's grandfather the Yule log, the principal and usage is the same. Celebration of life, family, love and hope for the future.

DAILY TIP DEC 7 2011 HOLIDAY VERSION

DAILY TIP DEC 7 2011

HOLIDAY VERSION

Today's tip is for the Wine lovers on your list. Whether they are wine aficionados or just enjoy a glass here and there; Wine.com has something for any one's palate.

http://www.wine.com/ Wine.com provides top quality wines at wonderful pricing. You can choose varietal, region, style and rating. Not to worry if you aren't a sommelier, Wine.com makes it easy to choose the right bottle of wine for any occasion.

Wine.com also has a fantastic Wine club that you can subscribe to for as little as $29 a month. They also have a terrific selection of accessories, gift baskets and over 90+ wines under $20! 

Wine.com doesn't ship to Canada but you can certainly research a wine and find it in your local Wine or Liquor store. Be sure to read all the shipping information prior to placing an order. State to State laws differ when shipping alcohol.

Wine.com has a fabulous app that you can place an order while on the go! You can join their online community and chat with other wine lovers. 

Be sure to sign up for their newsletter to keep up-to-date with new wines, new Wineries and special deals.

Sher's Picks from Wine.com

• RED: Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvingnon 1992 $99 
• WHITE: Marcassin Marcassin Vineyard Chardonnay  2006 $249
• ROSE: Louis Roederer Brut Rose 2005 $69.99
• CHAMPAGNE:  Taittinger Comte's de Champagne Blanc de Blanc  2000 $139

UNDER $20

• Kendall Jackson Grande Reserve Chardonnay 2009 $19.79
• Pacific Rim Organic Riesling 2009 $14.29
• Columbia Crest Two Vines Cabernet Sauvingnon 2009 $8.99 (great deal for a nice hearty table wine)
• Glen Carlou Grand Classique 2008 $14.99
• Catena Malbec 2009 $22.99 (a little over the $20 but still a great deal)

If you click through the Wine.com ad on my blog, you can receive special discounts too! 

Celebrate the holidays in style with a fabulous bottle of wine from Wine.com.

Top 10 Reasons to Shop Online

TOP 10 REASONS

TO

SHOP ONLINE

1. No lineups to contend with
2. Don't have to get dressed (stay in your jammies and shop, shop, shop)
3. Broader selection to choose from (speciality websites, online stores)
4. Don't have to clean snow off the car, drive in bad weather
5. No rude shoppers or salespeople to hassle you
6. You can shop 24 hours a day (great for shift workers)
7. Don't have to worry about finding parking spots, shopping carts or traffic congestion at the malls
8. You can have your purchases shipped right to recipient or straight to your door.
9. Don't have to worry about thieves breaking into your car and steals your purchases
10. Finally, you should shop online because it's just way too cool not to!

Issues: Secret Letter to Santa Revealed | Pitt Meadows Today – the Other Side of the News

Issues: Secret Letter to Santa Revealed | Pitt Meadows Today – the Other Side of the News

Environmentally Approved Christmas Gift (Bonus Tip)

Environmentally Approved Christmas Gift

BONUS TIP OF THE DAY

Being environmentally friendly these days has become more acceptable and the products have become top notch quality. As a bonus to my normal daily tips for the holiday season, I'm proud to announce a fantastic company that cares about the environment as much as they care about themselves.

http://www.chipkos.com/  Chipkos, makes quality footwear that is environmentally sound. For each pair of sandals that are made, their conservation effort saves 100sq ft of habitat. How cool is that? Buying a pair of shoes has never been so awesome! 

With shoes for men, women and children, Chipkos is a one stop shop. With hassle-free exchanges and returns, there is no excuse not to be an Eco-shopper. Be sure to check out their holiday savings too!

Chipkos is a secure shopping website as well. 

Do your feet and the environment a good deed this year and buy a pair of Chipkos!

Adopted and Doppelganger Affect

ADOPTED AND THE DOPPELGANGER AFFECT

Doppelganger is defined as 'A ghostly double or counterpart of a living person' (thanks to Dictionary.com). In other words, your twin. 

We all have a 'doppelganger'. Most of us have never met our 'doppelganger'. But realize, out there somewhere, is someone who is the 'exact' copy of yourself. For an adopted person, this affect is terrifying. 

I've always known that I was adopted ( at 6 weeks old) and knew that there was a large probability that I had/have siblings/relatives out there somewhere that I haven't met yet. The doppelganger, was the least of my worries. Or so I thought. 

Yesterday Dec 6th, marked the sombre anniversary of the Massacre at École Polytechnique in Montreal in 1989. 28 innocent men and women were slain by a lone gunman (later identified as Marc Lépine, who eventually took his own life). Now, for most people this anniversary would be marked, acknowledged and a prayer said for the families of those that were lost. For me, it marked something completely different and potentially life changing.

As I read a few articles about the Massacre (both in English and Francaise), I came across some photos of the men and women that were killed and stopped dead in my tracks gazing at one specific photo. 

It was like I jumped back in history and was looking at myself. The shock engulfed my entire being. Tears flowed down my cheeks as I shook wondering what I was looking at. Here was a woman who was 21 in 1989 and I was 22. We were almost exactly the same age. She had my eyes, my nose, my lips but yet she was unknown to me. I had never nor ever would meet her. I knew nothing about 'Annie Turcotte' until I read the article. Still, a part of me gazed into her eyes and saw a life that I longed for. A life of knowing who I was, where I came from, who my parents were, everything. She had it all and he stole it. Tears started to flow all over again. 

I spent hours reading the article over and over and staring into 'myself'. Was this the 'eternal abyss' I had heard about from my English Professor all those years ago? Was this me, seeing my own mortality end tragically? 

Did a piece of me die when Annie was viciously murdered? The paradox is mind numbing. 

Here it is 24 hrs later, and I'm still in a state of awe. What do I do with this? It's not like I can run up to her family and say 'Hi, I'm your long lost family member and I look just like your murdered daughter.'  

Now for the real shocker. My doppelganger is my daughter's doppelganger as well. My beautiful, 17 yr old daughter is almost an exact copy of me. Which in turn, means she is also a doppelganger for Annie. Bizarre? A case of strong genetic sequencing? Were we related to her? That is the biggest mystery of all.

http://freepages.family.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~turcault/bios/annie.htm

More to come. Stay tuned.

Dear Santa *another secret letter revealed*

Dear Santa Claus


My name is Selene* and I'm 14 yrs old. Everyone at my high school seems to hate me but I don't know why. I'm a normal teenager, with normal problems and normal parents. I'm very shy if you don't know me and I can be really quiet but I didn't think that was enough to make people hate me so much. 


Last year, I hid in the bathroom all through lunch because some girls wanted to beat me up because I didn't like the same music as they did. Yesterday, the nurse had to call my mom because she found me crying in the middle of the gym floor after being hassled and punched in the stomach for not having any money.


Santa, I don't know if you can fix things, but I'm scared and don't want to go back to school. I don't want to leave my house, but I hate being alone in my bedroom crying all the time too. Why are there so many bullies in the world Santa? Why do they have to pick on me? I have never hurt anyone. 


I know there are grown-ups that are around to talk to, but I'm afraid of telling anyone how I feel because I'll feel that I won't be normal anymore. I can't sleep, I don't want to eat and some days I just want to die. 


For Christmas this year Santa, could you maybe bring me some bravery, courage and maybe get rid of all the bullies in the world. 


No one should cry every day and night.


Your friend I hope,




Selene*


*character mentioned is purely fictional and is not to be confused with anyone real and any similarity is purely coincidental in nature*


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdkNn3Ei-Lg  (real life situation)

DAILY TIP DEC 6 2011 HOLIDAY VERSION

DAILY TIP DEC 6 2011

HOLIDAY VERSION

Today's tip is for those long distance family and friends on your Christmas list. 

These days, with the cost of postage and shipping, gift cards and flowers top the easy gift list. Well, I have another.

http://www.ediblearrangements.com/ Edible Arrangements brings the beauty of a flower arrangement to fresh fruit to create a delectable, showpiece/centerpiece gift that anyone on your list would love to receive. 

Edible Arrangements has locations in several countries and offers delivery and pick up service. The fruit is always crisp, fresh and elegantly presented. They will even dip them in chocolate for the more decadent look. 

With gifts starting as low as $25, you can delight your friends and family. They are even great for the office party!

Titanic Museum Attraction's Back to Titanic - 100th Year 'Tour Ireland' Sweepstakes

Titanic Museum Attraction's Back to Titanic - 100th Year 'Tour Ireland' Sweepstakes

Hokej Ceske (Czech Hockey)

My Vitkovice Steel jersey signed by Czech World Junior A team
Langley BC 2011

Přeskok přes hokejovou branku - SportovníNoviny.cz

Přeskok přes hokejovou branku - SportovníNoviny.cz

DEC 7 1941 - DEC 7 2011

Dec 7th 2011, marks the 70th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the United States entering World War II.

For the new generations, WWII seems to have faded into antiquated history with the newer Wars fresh in the minds. From Vietnam to Afghanistan, wars have persisted regardless of human development and tolerance. WWII, was the pivotal war that changed world boundaries, racial attitudes and battle itself.

No one was prepared for the barrage on Pearl Harbor that early December morning. The Japanese attacked the unsuspecting Port and annihilated the US Navy but brought forth a stern determination that still holds fast today. Americans, Canadians and the remainder of the Allied Forces broke the lines of defense of Japan, Italy, Russia and Germany. England and France took heavy damage and felt the brunt of the battles. Canadians displayed their amazing fortitude won crucial battles that ultimately led to the ending of the War.

While the rest of the world was contending with Hitler and his Third Reich, the United States was mortally wounded in Hawaii. Even with their fleet destroyed, the Americans took their vengeance and crushed the Axis of Evil. Hawaii, eventually healed with the aid of it's citizens and the support of their Allies.

Pearl Harbor now stands as a Memorial site with the USS Arizona still at sea with her sailors forever entrenched in the darkness of the Pacific Ocean.

A large portion of the Veterans from WWII have now passed on and only a small contingent remain to tell their stories about bravery, loss and hope. If we stopped and listened to their horrors, I highly doubt we would ever fight again. (nice dream isn't it?)

On this sorrowful anniversary, it is important to remember that freedom does have a price and it has been 'Written in Blood'.

SEMPER FI

*Thank a Soldier, Hug a Vet*


*If you won't stand behind our Troops. Stand in front, you'll be a much better target!*

DAILY TIP DEC 5 2011 HOLIDAY VERSION

DAILY TIP DEC 5 2011

HOLIDAY VERSION

Today's tip is for the four legged members of the family. http://www.petsmart.com/ has everything you need to pamper and indulge your pet.

From beds, to sparkling collars, PetSmart delivers top notch quality and great savings. Of course, if you visit a store location, your pet can even have their photo with Santa. Gift cards, veterinary services, and grooming instore make it a one stop shop for the finicky furry family. 

PetSmart even has cute and adorable stuffed animals that when purchase a portion goes to save homeless animals. 

A pet is a long term commitment, so if you opt to buy a puppy or kitten at Christmas, remember it will be there longer than the left over turkey. 

A PAGAN CHRISTMAS part 6

A PAGAN CHRISTMAS

part 6

NATIVITY SCENE vs YULE ALTAR

For Christians around the world, the most important aspect of their decorations is their Nativity Scene. A visual display of the depiction of the 'Story of the birth of Jesus Christ'. The Nativity scenes can be made from wood, plastic, ceramic or even stuffed felt and generally have the same pieces: 

• stable
• star
• angels
• shepherds
• Mary
• Joseph
• baby Jesus
• Magi
• animals
• hay

Elaborate scenes can have motion, lights and music and are displayed prominently in the home or on the front lawn. (larger scale) Of course, the best Nativity Scenes are the ones that are 'live' in nature. Many churches perform live scenes during Advent (the time frame leading to Christmas Eve) to teach the story to new Christians and in hopes of converting the non Christians.

Living nativity at St. Wojciech Church, Wyszków, Poland, 2006

For Wiccans and other Pagans that celebrate Yule. It is a tradition that a Yule Altar be decorated and is usually placed where normal rituals are performed in the home. As with the Nativity Scene, the Yule Altar has key components:

• Red, green or gold Altar Cloth
• Evergreen boughs
• White candles
• A single pillar candle of either red, gold, orange or yellow
• mini lights (solid color is preferred but multi-colored strands are fine as well)
• Holly leaves and berries
• Laurel leaves
• A cauldron 
• Oranges, lemons, grapefruit (any citrus will work for symbol of life)
• Cinnamon sticks or essential oil (I like using both)
• Whole nutmeg
• Myrrh incense (Christian overlap)
• Pine cones, symbolic animals (stuffed animals, plastic, wooden are fine)

The components for the Yule Altar are to depict life being reborn. A request for blessings from the Goddess and the cauldron is to represent the womb of the great Mother. The Altar can even be used as the focal point of the room. Adorned with

other decorations to make it look even more festive. Mead (honey wine), mulled cider or wine is used for toasting and blessing.

Sample Yule Altar with Stag 

Christmas snow is beautiful

' I'm dreaming of a White Christmas, just like the ones I used to know'. The only day of the year, I will actually enjoy seeing snow. This shot is nature's beauty at its very best.

Christmas in Pitt Meadows 2009

SHER'S TARTE AU SUCRE (sugar pie)

SHER'S JOYEUX NOEL 

TARTE AU SUCRÉ

also known as Christmas Sugar Pie

A traditional French Canadian dessert for the Christmas season. It's on the sweeter and more decadent side of desserts, so a little goes a long way. Serving it up with Maple flavored ice cream or drizzled pure Maple Syrup makes the pie even more luscious to the taste buds. 

This is a winner for dinner after Midnight Mass along with Tourtiere!  

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 5 tsp all purpose flour (this cuts the sweetness)
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp milk (I use 1%, but any will suffice )
• 1/2 cup melted butter (I use Imperial sticks as they are pre-measured)
• 1 cup - 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts (pecans work very well too)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees (f) or 165 degrees (c)
2. Mix first 5 ingredients on medium speed with hand mixer until smooth
3. Add melted butter and nuts (the nuts are optional) and blend for 3 minutes
4. Pour into unbaked pie shell (I use a top crust as well, but you can certainly make it without a top crust). Cut a slit into the top crust for air
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until it's set
6. Top with Whipped Cream or Maple flavored Ice Cream

* nuts are optional

** you can easily turn this pie into miniature tartlets (similar to butter tart)

Joyeux Noel! 

DAILY TIP DEC 4 2011 HOLIDAY VERSION

DAILY TIP DEC 4 2011

HOLIDAY VERSION

Today's tip is for those 'shop local' fans. WWW.bigfeast.ca is a fantastic Bistro and Catering Company located right here in Maple Ridge BC. 

From dining in, to having them cater in your home; you are sure to be served with the very best cuisine.  Big Feast also some great 'Holiday take and bake' products that you warm up. They do all the work and you get the credit! 

If you are looking to have a Christmas party or just a private get together, they also have a room you can book. 

11920 227th street maple ridge

604.477.4334

@bigfeast

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Big-Feast-Bistro-Catering/254699999562

http://www.youtube.com/user/bigfeastbistro?feature=mhum

http://networkedblogs.com/c6WV2

Whatever, your needs for this Holiday Season, Big Feast Bistro is sure to deliver!

DAILY TIP DEC 3 2011 HOLIDAY VERSION

DAILY TIP DEC 3 2011

HOLIDAY VERSION

Today's tip is for those special people on your list that you want to 'pamper'. 

www.spafinder.ca Is the perfect site to find the perfect spa package at a reasonable price. Spa Finder, is multi-national so finding a Spa in Canada is just as easy as finding one in the United States, UK, etc.  

These gift card, certificates make great stocking stuffers.  They make a great 'secret Santa' present too! 

You can follow them on Facebook and Twitter for special offers and they even have their own online community to join.

Put a smile on any woman's (or man's) face this Christmas with a gift from Spa Finder