tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69987612281328473512024-03-12T20:55:27.673-07:00Go With MoMoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-37439055489055290762016-07-27T14:20:00.003-07:002016-07-27T16:50:29.069-07:00Let's Pokemon Go!<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Truly tickled pink that<a href="http://www.pokemongo.com/en-ca/" target="_blank"> Pokémon Go</a>, the free to play mobile app has a name that totally fits my blog theme Go! <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-xGpLHWqIY/V5kcslClGzI/AAAAAAAAAOc/WHKjMIDtiUIfgm73xm45OJAl92hP4e7SACEw/s1600/13876583_1290171934328942_52215923321201182_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-xGpLHWqIY/V5kcslClGzI/AAAAAAAAAOc/WHKjMIDtiUIfgm73xm45OJAl92hP4e7SACEw/s320/13876583_1290171934328942_52215923321201182_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This giant rock is a <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">PokéStop! </span></td></tr>
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So of course I have to share my exploit playing this craze that has taken over the world with a blink of an eye. It's got me walking to work more and using words and terms like "evolve," "XP," and "Gotcha!" more often.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.archives.gov.on.ca/en/explore/online/art_qp/big/big_43_three_graces.aspx" target="_blank">"The Three Graces Fountain" by Gerald Gladstone</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My history with Pokémon ? Flashback to when my kids were little girls watching the Pokémon cartoons on tv --- it had me wishing I had my own <a href="http://www.pokemongodb.net/2016/05/mr-mime.html" target="_blank">Mr. Mime</a> to help me do housework just like the mom of <a href="http://pokemon.wikia.com/wiki/Ash_Ketchum" target="_blank">Ash Ketchum</a>! And of course the Pokémon card collection as well as Pikachu merchandise from t-shirts, caps, movies to plushies that said "Pika Pika, Pikachu!" 10 million different ways!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now Pokémon Go has given us an opportunity to experience this reality game as a family. The kids are grown up now and it's their turn to teach us tricks on how to play and catch those Pokémon! I have heard some of my friends find it easier to get the</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span>ir kids to come along for a car ride or a walk because it will bring them to PokéStops. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Metal sculpture at the<a href="http://torontobotanicalgarden.ca/about/" target="_blank"> Toronto Botanical Gardens</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> The </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">PokéStops are a joy to find, just like a scavenger hunt. One tries to find them to collect more </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pokéballs and items. If you take the time to appreciate where it is, you discover they are actual spots where you discover art work or landmarks in malls, parks, churches and many more places. You can walk, bike or even drive to these spots and get the chance to catch a new creature.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-36lsoGLJfCk/V5kc0iDW1SI/AAAAAAAAAOc/60yq3oqhu2kK5yo2hx341_ngm0KNGq38gCEw/s1600/13872670_1290171914328944_8253492265348666003_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-36lsoGLJfCk/V5kc0iDW1SI/AAAAAAAAAOc/60yq3oqhu2kK5yo2hx341_ngm0KNGq38gCEw/s200/13872670_1290171914328944_8253492265348666003_n.jpg" width="156" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://tayloronhistory.com/2013/11/05/torontos-architectural-gemsstone-archway-on-yonge-south-of-college/" target="_blank">Gothic stone archway</a> on Yonge & College</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Currently I am a Level 1<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4</span> with about <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">50</span> types of </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pokémon registered in my </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pokédex. My advise to those playing the game --- get your butts off the couch, walk your way to health and discover people and places all around you.Give it a try, those adorable </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pokémon creatures will get you hooked. See you in the next </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">PokéStop ---- Gotcha!</span><br />
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<br />MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-76829825503444701622016-06-22T17:34:00.000-07:002016-06-22T17:36:32.406-07:00Let's Go Appreciate --- Eyes to the SkyAnother great morning for a walk! Temperature was 13-16 C and not so windy as I stepped into the street in my 6 year old brown Chucks. (Did you know that <a href="http://www.converse.com/" target="_blank">Converse </a>is a subsidiary of Nike since 2003?) I still love mine, so comfy to walk in and light on the feet.<br />
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With <a href="http://canadaday.gc.ca/" target="_blank">Canada Day</a> long weekend coming up soon, let me take some time to appreciate Toronto. People like me who walk in the morning come from a melting pot of migrants from all over the world. <a href="http://www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=8e79f9be8db1c310VgnVCM1000006cd60f89RCRD" target="_blank">Toronto</a> loves to celebrate its many diverse festivals and events.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l2pUXJeRp8Q/V2sirAzdwEI/AAAAAAAAAMw/hwhsC9J9YWYpxpZRa0UfZ-j76EPIvlpwgCKgB/s1600/13466414_1266197973393005_8153128222653421645_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l2pUXJeRp8Q/V2sirAzdwEI/AAAAAAAAAMw/hwhsC9J9YWYpxpZRa0UfZ-j76EPIvlpwgCKgB/s320/13466414_1266197973393005_8153128222653421645_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great street district markers</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flags</td></tr>
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Keeping my eyesight towards the sky, I enjoy the splashes of color from the hanging pots of flowers and some urban art makes the walk uplifting as well, if you know where to look.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IzOsmp4zSYs/V2soq3dw_NI/AAAAAAAAAM4/WGMuLz0mvv8zu8nWLt8dms_uCjRUzXusACLcB/s1600/13432147_1266197773393025_6817730917771599637_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IzOsmp4zSYs/V2soq3dw_NI/AAAAAAAAAM4/WGMuLz0mvv8zu8nWLt8dms_uCjRUzXusACLcB/s320/13432147_1266197773393025_6817730917771599637_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cascade of flowers</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I spy with my naked eye .....</td></tr>
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There is a lot more to see but I took time to enjoy it than take photos. Come take the walk with me, you will be pleasantly surprised by this city called Toronto!<br />
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MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-77497552654918896662016-06-21T18:51:00.001-07:002016-06-21T18:51:12.425-07:00Let's Go --- Walking on the Bright SideCan you believe it's been nearly three years since I began blogging about my attempts of walking to work from my <a href="https://www.ttc.ca/" target="_blank">TTC</a> subway stop? I wish I could share a success story, complete with the before and after photos of a new slim and trim me. Sorry to disappoint, but that's not how it rolled.<br />
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Instead life happened and with that the opportunity to walk was replaced by the need to get to work sooner. But the good news is I have started walking again, trying a new route so here are some new insights and observations.<br />
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The new route brings me out on Bloor Street and the first things I see are the condos being built everywhere. Looking up there is The One. Look down and I get to experience the pedestrian scramble when prompted by the words "walk sign is on for all crossings."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GSpZmXBB3m4/V2nkdpSZkQI/AAAAAAAAAL0/dbZAHM6SMngSOSUw1OEBNVPjSr7Gs8mWgCKgB/s1600/13450210_1266197743393028_9133255410321588174_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GSpZmXBB3m4/V2nkdpSZkQI/AAAAAAAAAL0/dbZAHM6SMngSOSUw1OEBNVPjSr7Gs8mWgCKgB/s320/13450210_1266197743393028_9133255410321588174_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pedestrian scramble!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This might be The One!</td></tr>
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As I cross over to my chosen sidewalk, I turn up the music in my ears. Music selection is determined by my mood, but mostly jazz, 80's, disco, rock and pop. My trek brings me close to higher end stores that try to entice me with their latest fashion. The early birds distract me from my day dreaming. On some days, I cross over to <a href="http://stbasiltoronto.org/" target="_blank">St. Basil's Catholic Parish</a> for a quick prayer or two! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ms2nnNrdimc/V2nr6DhtYAI/AAAAAAAAAMU/5e7YKlm221M-cvCkfiU0lgv6WHqjMoKRgCKgB/s1600/13508883_1266197856726350_1693471965619513744_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ms2nnNrdimc/V2nr6DhtYAI/AAAAAAAAAMU/5e7YKlm221M-cvCkfiU0lgv6WHqjMoKRgCKgB/s320/13508883_1266197856726350_1693471965619513744_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sacred space of meditation.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Adq5TepAqrA/V2nqKGk5Z5I/AAAAAAAAAMI/69fWpGl6pHMyAbvxDJz5wAS0976GodzpQCKgB/s1600/13495252_1266197933393009_5958076707933533527_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Adq5TepAqrA/V2nqKGk5Z5I/AAAAAAAAAMI/69fWpGl6pHMyAbvxDJz5wAS0976GodzpQCKgB/s320/13495252_1266197933393009_5958076707933533527_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rock doves doing their own walk.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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More pictures and observations next time. And this is my third week walking, life is good!<br />
MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-91189141592756716912015-01-14T20:07:00.001-08:002015-01-19T18:49:12.610-08:00With You, Near Journey’s End <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></i></b></span><span style="font-family: "Batang","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: FrankRuehl;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--36LT43pJak/VLc5FvNYn-I/AAAAAAAAALA/jNA3QY4TydY/s1600/hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--36LT43pJak/VLc5FvNYn-I/AAAAAAAAALA/jNA3QY4TydY/s1600/hands.jpg" height="240" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">It breaks my heart to see you like this</span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">In pain, so much pain ---</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">How
I wish I could make it go away! </span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Feeling useless each time the pain overcomes, </span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Take it all, what little comfort I could give you!</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Let me gently wipe your brow, your nose, your lips</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> Refresh you with cool drinks and wrap you in soft blankets.
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Cajole you to take one more bite, one more sip ...</span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I hide my tears of helplessness from you</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Is there naught I can do to make you feel better?</span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I run at the first beckon of your bell, </span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Let me be your hands, your feet, your strength. </span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Please silence your constant apologies and repeated thanks.</span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">All I do is because of love for you,</span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">For you are a lady of so much loveliness and grace!</span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Thank you for the many times your life’s path crossed with ours, </span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Even across the miles we felt you near us always</span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Your visits and thoughtfulness are forever etched in
our hearts.</span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">We hold dear your guidance and care in our times of joy and
sorrow</span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">You enriched us in your love a million times over!</span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">As the time draws near, I treasure our final times together</span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
</span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Stolen moments of joy, your smiles, your kindness and love.</span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">For now, I hold your hand and kiss your brow near journey’s end.</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Be brave, <span style="color: red;"><a href="http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/Matthew-25-21/" target="_blank">good & faithful servant</a></span></span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">For He our Lord, will hold you in His arms and take you Home,
at journey’s end!</span></i></span></span></div>
MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-22996281049445220312014-08-23T08:55:00.001-07:002014-08-23T09:01:23.495-07:00Let's Go Enjoy the BuskerFest!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2tK_nvzYR_0/U_ina3GLT6I/AAAAAAAAAI4/sD0f409Ad10/s1600/100_5978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2tK_nvzYR_0/U_ina3GLT6I/AAAAAAAAAI4/sD0f409Ad10/s1600/100_5978.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
This summer of 2014 is almost over but I'm not ready to let it go
yet! Just right in my work backyard of downtown Toronto, so many
exciting events are going on.<br />
<br />
Just on this last weekend of August, there is still time to experience a world class street festival, <a href="http://www.torontobuskerfest.com/" target="_blank">BuskerFest</a> is here! <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fr7ptGGi6m0/U_inaozJXrI/AAAAAAAAAI8/4ox60zuVnL4/s1600/100_5979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fr7ptGGi6m0/U_inaozJXrI/AAAAAAAAAI8/4ox60zuVnL4/s1600/100_5979.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silver Elvis suddenly gyrates into action.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Buskerfest,
is an annual event that brings the busy downtown Yonge Street neighborhood into life. This new location for lively and colorful street entertainment is also a fund raising event for <a href="http://www.epilepsytoronto.org/getinvolved_donation.php" target="_blank">Epilepsy Toronto</a>. It should be called "fun-raising!"<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqXiBhFeDOI/U_inZwo-lSI/AAAAAAAAAIw/Lk9Br77iTI0/s1600/100_5981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lqXiBhFeDOI/U_inZwo-lSI/AAAAAAAAAIw/Lk9Br77iTI0/s1600/100_5981.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wind her up!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Despite the sudden downpour on its first day, many people still came
down for some enjoyment. How can you resist the many food stalls,
clothing and souvenirs interspersed with the buskers doing their thing!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mnJfXyz2q6A/U_iy8Rz3JVI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/eosRLd3Z2HY/s1600/100_5963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mnJfXyz2q6A/U_iy8Rz3JVI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/eosRLd3Z2HY/s1600/100_5963.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://chelsea.eatonhotels.com/" target="_blank">Eaton Chelsea </a>is on of the proud sponsors of this event. The delicious grilled cheese sandwiches hits the right spot!<br />
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Living and working in a big city does have its benefits. This is one of the places where you can welcome many visitors to Canada in one of the world's largest backyards! <br />
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<br />MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-91950686845361390282013-08-09T19:34:00.000-07:002013-08-09T19:34:14.351-07:00Let's Go Keep in Step - Week 3The month of August has just begun and I am in the 3rd week of my walking journal.. Here is this week's compilation.<br />
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<div class="userContentWrapper">
<div class="_wk">
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Week
3, Day 1 - Fresh week for walking! It was drizzling but I still decided
to do my walk. One of the first buildings I pass by is the art-deco
style College Park building. It was the original shopping complex of the
Eaton family before Eaton Centre. <br /> Surprisingly, many people were
still walking despite the rain.Couldn't time myself accurately today as I
forgot my cellphone at home!</span></div>
<div class="_wk">
<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77OeO_rBVMc/UgWluGwucQI/AAAAAAAAAHo/XgWDjpiV9Jk/s1600/IMGP4533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77OeO_rBVMc/UgWluGwucQI/AAAAAAAAAHo/XgWDjpiV9Jk/s200/IMGP4533.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">College Park - closest subway stop to work</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dqVAVaVGgqc/UgWlum38DsI/AAAAAAAAAHw/zxT26LfeBnk/s1600/IMGP4534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dqVAVaVGgqc/UgWlum38DsI/AAAAAAAAAHw/zxT26LfeBnk/s200/IMGP4534.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found on the walls of this Art-Deco building</td></tr>
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<div class="_wk">
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Week
3, Day 2 - Decided to count Japanese restaurants today. From the corner
of Gerrard/Yonge to Yonge/Bloor, you can easily have your pick from the
11 (going on 12) sushi places! Not far behind are Chinese/Asian and
Korean restaurants, Mexican, and Shawarma/Gyro places. There were at
least 2 McDonald's, 2 Subway Restaurants and other fastfood places. You
definitely will not go hungry in this short stretch of Yonge! Walking
outfit: Fila moisture dry shirt (recommend this) and yoga pants. Walking
time: 17 minutes. Today's result: built up a hungry appetite!</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Week
3, Day 3 - Busy day at work so wasn't able to leave early. Fortunately,
it didn't rain until I got home. Walked on the east side of Yonge St for
a change. Today's observation: hand holding is still in; girl and girl;
boy and boy; boy and girl; young & old and probably other
combinations I didn't see.Saw a girl with a new tattoo all over her
whole back, it was taped over with clear tape and cling wrap so couldn't
see the design, not for me! Walking time: 16 minutes, yes!!!</span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> </span><span class="userContent">Week 3, Day 4 - Brain-tired today and took a rest from walking. Needed to get home from work to work from home (go figure!)<br />
Here is a photo I took yesterday of one way to be a walking
advertisement. This lady walks along Yonge with an A&W flag stuck to
a harness-like thing on her back as she gives away A&W discount
coupons.<br /> Better than dressing in a lobster suit in the summer heat!</span><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/p480x480/45234_676457675700374_553099297_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Photo: Week 3, Day 4 - Brain-tired today and took a rest from walking. Needed to get home from work to work from home (go figure!)
Here is a photo I took yesterday of one way to be a walking advertisement. This lady walks along Yonge with an A&W flag stuck to a harness-like thing on her back as she gives away A&W discount coupons.
Better than dressing in a lobster suit in the summer heat!" border="0" class="scaledImageFitWidth img" height="200" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/p480x480/45234_676457675700374_553099297_n.jpg" style="top: -32px;" width="150" /></a></div>
<span class="userContent"> </span><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Week
3, Day 5 - Did the walk this morning to make up for yesterday. Made very
good time as the street was free of people. It is a long weekend (Civic
Holiday) so most people have probably taken the day off. Had planned
to walk in the afternoon too but it began to rain cows and carabaos!
Will go to the newly opened Toronto Premium Outlet tomorrow and checking
out all the stores will be my exercise. Have a great and enjoyable long
weekend to my Canadian friends!</span><br />
<br />
MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-43419754289881130002013-07-27T07:47:00.001-07:002013-07-30T18:42:19.040-07:00Let's Go - Keep On Walking! <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> Here is Week 2 of what is becoming my walking journal. For the newcomers to my blog, I began last week to walk from work to a major subway stop mainly for exercise and reduce frustration in trying to get on a <a href="http://www.ttc.ca/" target="_blank">TTC</a> subway train during rush hour. </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">My nearest subway stop from work is College, 2 stops away from the major intersecting stop, Yonge/Bloor. Waiting to get on a train at College can take from 15-25 minutes during rush hour. Five fully packed trains can pass you by before you get on one that you can barely squeeze into! Normally, I hold my breath to avoid unpleasant smells prevalent when in very close proximity to strangers. Add a quick wish that there will be no subway delays! </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">I must say, walking to the same stop (Yonge/Bloor) has more benefits right now than taking the train. I get to enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise, get time to un-clutter my mind and observe my surroundings. I never realized my daily posting on Facebook would also give enjoyment to others who read them. So, I will collate my weekly FB posts into a weekly blog. Here we go! </span></span></span><br />
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uYcvq3RRcrQ/UfPZl4-DYhI/AAAAAAAAAGU/AWFOaqZMbkY/s1600/IMGP4527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uYcvq3RRcrQ/UfPZl4-DYhI/AAAAAAAAAGU/AWFOaqZMbkY/s400/IMGP4527.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking towards Yonge/Bloor - destination Bay building where the subway stop is located.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></span></span></h3>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> Week
2, Day 1 - Had nice cool weather for walking, finally! Unusual sighting
today: young girl chatting and sitting on the sidewalk with a homeless
man. Discussing thoughts on life? Weird sighting: woman sporting a fake
mustache and trying to look nonchalant about it. Completed walk in 17
minutes, yay!</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Week
2, Day 2 - Not a lot of interesting things to see today during my walk.
Did see one woman awkwardly trying to walk home with a 40" Bravia TV by
herself. Good luck with that! Tried on my new Brooks moisture wick
t-shirt. Helped to keep me feeling cool a bit as the material is light
and thin but it's just a plainly styled shirt. Today's time: 18 minutes.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Week
2, Day 3 - Started out a bit later than usual to finish something at
work. Walked in my work clothes but wore my runners. The weather was a
tad chilly Noticed the
"<a href="http://becauseiamagirl.ca/page.aspx?pid=3884&gclid=CPHiytvvz7gCFYFhMgodt1gAkA" target="_blank">Because I Am A Girl</a>" volunteers were all over the street again.
Suddenly came across a group of guys dressed up as Captain America and
some other Avengers. Need more muscles to fill out the costumes though.
But I prefer them to adults who wear shorts with pockets longer than
their shorts or wear pants that are falling to the ground. Where are the
fashion police? Forgot to check my walking time! Must be between 18 -
20 minutes.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Week
2, Day 4 - First of all, I want to send a big shout out to all those
taking time to read, like, comment and encourage me on my mini project
--- THANK YOU!!! I will continue on my walks and news snippets and let's
see if anything fruitful comes from this. It must be a week for
costumes, I saw a guy dressed up in a Brazilian flag, sporting a feather
mohawk on his head (had Brazil written on one side and some player's
name on the other, Falcao? not sure). Today's outfit:cotton tank top
and shorts. Weather: cool & breezy. Walking time: 19 minutes.</span></span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0oeL6XPNPp8/UfPZms6DHAI/AAAAAAAAAGo/0yO9ROcl3SY/s1600/IMGP4529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0oeL6XPNPp8/UfPZms6DHAI/AAAAAAAAAGo/0yO9ROcl3SY/s320/IMGP4529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So far, it takes me from 17 - 20 minutes to get here. In those doors then down to the subway.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> </span></span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">Week
2, Day 5 - Shook things up a bit and decided to walk in the morning and
reversed route from Yonge/Bloor to Gerrard. Good to see the same thing
from another perspective. Sidewalk had less trash, less people traffic,
couple of joggers, same homeless old guy in his corner. Spotted some job
postings in a food place and in a store selling "girlie" stuff, anyone
up for those? Weather: cool air, not muggy. Outfit: MPG shirt and yoga
pants. Shirt was soft on skin and moisture absorbing. (Forgot to add, Walking time: 17 minutes)</span></span></span></span></span></div>
<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent"> (Delayed post
due to Friday night frolics, another type of 'lakad' (walk) but that's
another story!) Until next week ....... peace!</span></span></span></span></span></h5>
MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-9431097148880289222013-07-19T18:34:00.001-07:002013-07-27T07:53:09.235-07:00Let's Go For a Walk!This week, I decided to stay true to my resolution and walk from work (Yonge & Gerrard) to Yonge and Bloor. It's already mid-July and about time to make this happen.<br />
<br />
So Monday afternoon, I began my walk for exercise. The following are my posts on Facebook.<br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Day 1
- Will walk to Yonge- Bloor after work for exercise. Today took 20
minutes because my legs hurt from gardening this weekend. Hopefully I
will walk faster in a few weeks.</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zYEkDbLkBr0/UfPZmKPZmfI/AAAAAAAAAGk/sHwADMRPFvU/s1600/IMGP4528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zYEkDbLkBr0/UfPZmKPZmfI/AAAAAAAAAGk/sHwADMRPFvU/s320/IMGP4528.JPG" title="Tour bus" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I usually see this double-decker tour bus when I leave promptly at 5:00 pm.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> </span><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Day 2
- 20 minutes walk again to Yonge & Bloor. Note to self: remember to
bring the water bottle! It was a humid and sticky day but the street
was alive with people enjoying the sun.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> </span><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Day 3 - Extreme Heat alert yesterday. Was down with a migraine and stayed home.<br /> <br />
Day 4 - Back on the street. Things of interest: 1very big black
service dog in training making friends with a woman; 2 street people
trying to cool off by just sitting and chillin' on the curb and 6 young
women spreading the word about <a href="http://becauseiamagirl.ca/page.aspx?pid=3884&gclid=CPHiytvvz7gCFYFhMgodt1gAkA" target="_blank">Because I Am A Girl</a> in the hot weather.
Shaved 2 minutes off my time today, only took 18 minutes despite heat
and waiting for crossing lights to turn green!</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EXMRSBgO7oc/UfPZZywGMFI/AAAAAAAAAGI/VCe1fLVFLGA/s1600/IMGP4525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EXMRSBgO7oc/UfPZZywGMFI/AAAAAAAAAGI/VCe1fLVFLGA/s320/IMGP4525.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Street sign only on Wellesley and Yonge.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> Day 5
- TGIF! Left the office on the dot as the news said it was going to
rain. Walked briskly but stopped to take some random photos (to be
downloaded later). Even saw a pair of shoes abandoned on the street!
Someone must have wanted to air their tootsies! Walk took 19 minutes
today. Happy weekend!</span>MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-86401437818661020242012-07-16T20:15:00.002-07:002012-07-16T20:15:23.289-07:00Let's Go Beat the Heat!We are in the midst of glorious summer days! Too bad that we are also getting hit with pretty intense heat waves. Nonetheless, I still love summer despite the heat.<br />
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So what can you do to beat the heat? Here are some possibilities:<br />
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1. It's the perfect excuse to indulge in a Timmy's Iced Cappuccino! Or ice cream sundae or whatever cool dessert you have in mind! <br />
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2. Cool off in a swimming pool. You can go to a local YMCA or catch up with a friend who conveniently has access to a pool ;)<br />
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3. Go mall shopping and keep cool in the air-conditioned shops while finding the best summer outfits!<br />
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4. Speaking of outfits, now is the time to wear your fabulous finds, trendy shorts, tank tops or comfy summer dresses.<br />
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5. Water your plants and cool off under the sprinklers at the same time!<br />
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6. Eat food that doesn't require much cooking and slaving over the stove. Try some light salads and sandwiches and fruits to make you feel cool as a cucumber!<br />
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7. Travel to a cool destination --- maybe some exotic island or go to the beaches area nearest you.<br />
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8. Watch the latest movie flick or musical. For sure, the theater will be a cool place to be and be seen.<br />
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9. Stay at home and lounge in your pj's all day! Or enjoy a bath or shower!<br />
10. Hang out with cool friends and you'll surely forget there is even a heat wave!<br />
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Go and enjoy your summer!<br />
<br />MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-27144250604630350382012-06-05T20:28:00.002-07:002012-06-05T20:28:56.631-07:00Let's Go Enjoy My Favorite Things<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
"Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens,
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens <br />
Brown paper packages tied up with strings, These are a few of my favorite things." </div>
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(Lyrics from My Favorite Things, Sound of Music)</div>
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I probably wouldn't consider all those things in the song as my favorite things but enjoying my favorite things on my birthday was a good start to making it a special day. This year, I opted for a simple family lunch at home with my family. Thanks to the grilling expertise of my hubby, we were able to enjoy steak and large prawns. Top that with a delicious cheesecake and my day was made.!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I also received wonderful presents like an original painting and makeup from my daughters, lilies from my sister, and lots of birthday greetings from good friends and family. I enjoyed a movie date with my husband and spend quality time with our granddaughter. My favorite things may be simple ones but I wouldn't trade them for fancier things even if I had the chance!</span> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Would you?</span>MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-21773282132582631802012-05-21T20:35:00.001-07:002014-08-23T09:19:08.080-07:00Let's Go Remember DaddyThere's a hole in my heart that I can't fill. I've had my many cries and periods of sadness and still the pain is there. You see, my daddy passed away almost a month ago and I will never be the same. (It has been 2 years since this post came out).<br />
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The last time I saw him was in December 2010 when my family made a special trip just to visit him in his pastoral community. It was a real eye opener as I saw my father happily living in very squalid surroundings, with children chanting his name as he walked past, and seeing him take the time to talk and play with them. To them, he was their pastor, grandfather/father, a person they could easily approach for help.<br />
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I have many memories of my daddy, happy ones, some painful ones. When I was still a young child, I remember being made to recite a poem in Spanish to guests and visitors even if I didn't want to. I remember trips to the barber and coming home with a bottle of Horlicks to share with my sisters. Once when it was my birthday, he bought me a chocolate cake because I did not like the butter cake that he first got for me. But there was also another birthday when he apologized to me because we couldn't afford to celebrate. He would always go to work very early that we would be one of the first students dropped off at school. When he was home on weekends, he would turn on the tv and the radio at the same time, then go to sleep. If you turned them off he would wake up. I did not like his temper but it was part of who he was. I knew when he called me Ramona that I was in big trouble! But he would also call me to sit beside him while he watched tv and ask, "Who does daddy love?" And I would dutifully answer,"Me."<br />
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When I was looking for my first job, he drove me to the office a day before my interview to make sure that it was a safe place and so that I would not get lost. He would drive me to work and taught me to respect and give importance to the little people. When I had started my own family, he would come and visit his granddaughters with little treats. Our communication lessened after I migrated from my homeland but always had news from and about him through my sister.<br />
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He had many jobs but he always told me he was a salesman at heart. Who would have known that he found the greatest joy in "selling" the word of God? "God is the best boss of all, he said. So I guess, I shouldn't have been surprised that he found his happiness at last. He was always generous and wanted to share with others. He had told me on my last visit that whatever he had belonged to his church. Whatever I gave him became theirs as well.<br />
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Thank you Daddy for all that you have done for me. I am not a famous person nor a big boss of some company but because of you, I have a good education and believe I can be what I want to be. Because of you I work hard and do my job honestly. Because of you I always try to be humble and appreciate other people's worth. Because of you I will try to be more selfless and caring.<br />
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I stand corrected. I do not have a hole in my heart. I have a special place in my heart reserved just for my daddy and it is heavy because it is full of the many memories of him that I will always treasure. I love you Daddy, I am proud to be your daughter.<br />
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<br />MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-78933677106667246992012-03-01T07:16:00.000-08:002012-03-01T07:16:42.250-08:00Let's Go Start A New Job!March is here and I am beginning the countdown to spring and a new job. Yes, finally I have found the perfect fit for my skills and interests and I am really looking forward to my new job downtown. In it, I will be able to use my knowledge and experience but also have an opportunity to learn new things and meet new people.<br />
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The search is over. No more job fairs to attend and resumes to send out. No more waiting for the e-mail or phone call to snag the interview. Frowns over rejections have turned into pleased smiles. I had forgotten the feeling of starting on a new endeavor, like a new school year for students or a new business venture for an entrepreneur. You get an adrenalin shot that makes you feel giddy, excited, a little bit nervous, but definitely happy. Synonymous with spring, starting a new job gives you the sense of starting off fresh and anticipating new experiences. <br />
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In preparation for this job, I have tried to learn more about the company I will be joining and internalize their motto. After all, I am now part of their team. I think this will help me to understand my role in the whole scheme of things. I also spent some time brushing up on the technical skills that may have gone rusty. It is fortunate that I was able to volunteer in the past months and avoid turning my brain into mush.<br />
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The best part about preparing for the new job is creating and updating my wardrobe. Hurray, I have a very good reason to go shopping! This has also given me the kick to get rid of clothes I have been keeping around for a long time. Now is the time to be ruthless and get rid of it if it hasn't been used in ages. Shopping for the "look" I want to project is a mini project in itself. Finding the right clothes, hunting for the shoes that fit, making repairs and alterations, all these have been keeping me busy. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A new job is a great excuse to go shopping!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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In retrospect, I will miss my quiet mornings at home with little interruptions. I could read my book, write down my thoughts, watch my TV shows, eat when I wanted and enjoy the peace and silence. The hiatus from work did me good. It re-focused my goals, gave me time to try things I was always too busy for and made me know myself. Now, I am ready to get back in the hustle and bustle of things. In a few more weeks, I will rejoin the ranks of the employed, with a spring in my step and a smile on my lips!MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-7706624719681949832012-02-01T07:37:00.000-08:002012-02-01T07:37:55.918-08:00Let's Go Be a Dragon!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nfr5seTkMBI/TylbSQ06TiI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/GpoOQ_WIhAI/s1600/dragon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nfr5seTkMBI/TylbSQ06TiI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/GpoOQ_WIhAI/s320/dragon.jpg" width="120" /></a>According to the Chinese calendar, 2012 is the Year of the Black Water Dragon and luckily I was also born in the Year of the Dragon. So generally, this year should be a good year, specially for me and all other fellow dragons. Now is the time to take advantage of this good fortune. <br />
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So like this divine beast of the east,we should harness all the good dragon characteristics and channel them into something good and useful. Good fortune for me is not only the financial aspect but also good health, love and life. Passion is one thing I know I have once I am doing something I like. I will most certainly throw my heart and soul in to a project or activity and make it a masterpiece. No half-baked job will do!What I sometimes forget is that not everyone thinks the way I do and I must control my short-temper. Time for me to target the many projects on the back burner so I can complete them successfully.<br />
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Bravery is an admirable trait we should develop further. I know that I can always dig down deep and face the challenges that are before me.We'll never know unless we give it a try. Time to take bigger risks and enjoy that rush of adrenalin. I need me a nice juicy challenge to sink my teeth into and bring out the warrior in me, ROAR! As my high school batch motto says, "Dare to Be Different!"<br />
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And this leads be to another dragon trait which is being innovative. When creativity calls, I have to answer with a "yes". Be it baking a cake, sewing a scarf or decorating a room, I tend to drop everything and follow my heart. This gives me a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. <br />
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To some, the quest to be perfect, bold and unique may be daunting tasks but to a dragon like me, it is a thrilling challenge to pursue and conquer. Long live the Dragon!MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-64183354600894318482012-01-10T10:06:00.000-08:002012-01-10T10:06:40.038-08:00Let's Go Make A Fresh Start!When the New Year comes around, we often think of new beginnings and making New Year's resolutions. However, did you pause to think about whatever happened to the resolutions of the year before? If you are like, you probably forgot what they were already. I think my resolutions in the past years were too vague and all encompassing, like be more helpful, smile more, spend less, eat healthier, etc., but nothing too specific. In the end, nothing got done and I did not accomplish anything at all.<br />
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So this year, I will focus on one specific thing. I will de-clutter and reduce build-up of collected things in my house. It may sound easy but this is hard specially if the other people in my house including myself, love to hoard stuff. I like to save things for a rainy day, but when the rain comes, I can't find the stuff! I collected many things that I can't seem to part with because of sentimental reasons. Not anymore, time to cut the cord and clean house! Consider this an early <a href="http://www.infobarrel.com/Spring_Cleaning_How_To_Have_Fun" target="_blank">spring cleaning.</a><br />
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Goodbye to the ratty old shirts reserved for sleepwear, I deserve to dream in style! Same thing goes with the clothes I have been saving for the time I will lose weight and fit in them again. I will celebrate with new clothes when that happens! Goodbye to the books, magazines and brochures that I saved for my kids assignments. I can't find them when I need it and they print stuff off the Internet anyway! Time to dump gadgets that have not been used in years and probably never will anyway. I will donate or throw away the arts and crafts that I never got around to make. Someone can probably finish them instead of me. No more will I collect tiny objects and cute things that have become dust catchers.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas decor collection grows every year. Time to trim down the collection!</td></tr>
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I know I will be met with some resistance but I will meet this challenge head on! As I work on a cleaning sweep of my house, I hope that getting rid of my material things will open me up to giving more value on the intangibles in life. Instead of collecting material things that take up physical space, I will start a new collection and save them in a spiritual vault. I will start collecting more smiles and laughter from friends and strangers, save up time to give comfort and assistance to others, and increase patience and understanding in times of distress and discomfort. How do I do that? I will spend more quality time with my family and find and join a new<a href="http://www.infobarrel.com/5_Good_Reasons_to_Volunteer_in_Your_Community" target="_blank"> volunteer </a>opportunity this year to add to the one I already have.<br />
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Well, wish me luck and I hope you find your own resolution that you will find doable and enriching. Happy New Year!MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-24678389766301779442011-12-13T16:59:00.000-08:002011-12-13T16:59:05.963-08:00Let's Go Celebrate Christmas!Christmas is coming!<br />
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Many children and adults are already doing a countdown to one of the biggest celebrations of the year. This holiday casts its own magic on people. Somehow people seem nicer, happier, more giving and forgiving. We should remember that there is no Christmas without Christ, he is indeed the reason for the season.<br />
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In our own household, we are lucky to renew our joy in Christmas through the fresh eyes of a babe. As we introduce our youngest family member to the customs and traditions we have for this holiday season, we can't help but be excited all over again!<br />
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The <a href="http://www.infobarrel.com/How_To_Decorate_Your_Christmas_Tree_Top_5_Popular_Themes" target="_blank">Christmas tree</a> is up and decorated, the presents are getting wrapped and even the baking is in full swing. We can't seem to get enough of <a href="http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/big-belly-bella" target="_blank">Food for the Gods</a>, a favourite holiday sweet! We smile and feel the love sent our way through the Christmas cards and letters in the mail. <br />
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However you plan to spend this special occasion, do remember that the spirit of giving is not just expressed by material presents. We can give our time and talents to help others, give cheer to the old and lonely, and make someone happy by remembering them. So go and celebrate, give thanks for all your blessings and keep the real meaning of Christmas alive. Have a Merry and Blessed Christmas!MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-8938072809824561682011-11-17T07:09:00.000-08:002011-11-17T07:25:04.991-08:00Let's Go Find Some Passion!<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hah, gotcha there!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Nope, this is not an x-rated article but some rambling thoughts on my journey to finding myself. One would think that having time is all it takes to discover what you really want to do. This year gave me more time to think things over and maybe discover a new career but I must say that I still have not found "it."<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nF5jEW6i2To/TsUiH7kM9dI/AAAAAAAAAD4/uQcx0kVub4E/s1600/cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: left; cssfloat: right; float: right; height: 148px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; width: 177px;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nF5jEW6i2To/TsUiH7kM9dI/AAAAAAAAAD4/uQcx0kVub4E/s200/cake.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">I have started on the domestic route, trying to tap my inner housewife skills. I loved to bake and decorate cakes years ago and tried to see if I could get into this again. My first test was decorating a cake using fondant icing. Though it was fun and enjoyable to make, I don't think I will make a career of it. So cross that off the list!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Being a writer is another thing I thought I was passionate about. I was all fueled-up working on my Info Barrel articles at first. Then I had a brain drain and seems that my efforts haven't reached the $10.00 mark yet. I haven't given up, but it sure sucks that my almost finished book is lost in cyber limbo and I don't know how to get it back. I will revisit this endeavor another time when I am in a better mood to start from scratch!</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">In the recent years, I had discovered that I did enjoy creating personal home movies. Meeting the technical challenges was satisfying and getting good feedback from friends and family was heartening. I should make a note to self to explore this further and replace a stolen video cam in the process.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sCTScIHj9nk/TsUi1ro8LoI/AAAAAAAAAEA/e90LScUKJek/s1600/mudkip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; height: 135px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; width: 197px;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sCTScIHj9nk/TsUi1ro8LoI/AAAAAAAAAEA/e90LScUKJek/s200/mudkip.jpg" width="200" /></a>At present, I am trying my hand at sewing and surprisingly finding myself fairly good at it. Is this "the" passion I am looking for? Will this be my new career? It is too soon to tell but it sure is fun going to my lessons and finding something that I am good at. Maybe this is one piece of the puzzle and I have to continue on my journey to find the other pieces.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">I did learn that in the journey to find one's passion, you have to take risks: financial, emotional, physical, etc. and really throw yourself into the trying stage. And take everything with a grain of salt. It does hurt to know you are not the greatest at something but at least you know you tried. And get some humour out of it by laughing at yourself. Someone did say that laughter is the best medicine!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My search for passion is still very much alive. Maybe someone can give me a boost or send some suggestions my way. I am willing to give reasonable ideas a try. So what are you waiting for? Maybe you will be the one to help me complete the puzzle!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-20723185322249016202011-10-07T09:30:00.000-07:002011-10-07T09:30:30.265-07:00Let's Go Give Thanks!Canadian Thanksgiving Day is around the corner and this is the perfect time to take some quiet time and be thankful for all the blessings in our life. When we are busy with all the routines of the day, dealing with problems and stress, we forget that we are still luckier than most.<br />
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On a global perspective, let us be thankful if our country is not in the midst of a war or environmental disaster. Go one step further than just praying for victims, do something to help them by donating or volunteering for a worthy cause.<br />
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On a national level, be thankful if you live in a country where there is freedom to exercise your rights, where education is available to many and work is possible to find. No country is perfect and there are still many things that need to be improved. Do your part and actively support those who work for the good of the people.<br />
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On the homefront, surely there are many more things we can be thankful for. The health of each family member, the food that we eat, the clothes we wear, the friends we have and specially the love that we share with each other. Children can squabble among themselves and realtives can have their little spats but it is important to remember the ties that bind us to one another. <br />
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Finally, on a personal level, I know I still have many blessings to be thankful for despite the many challenges the year has brought. I give thanks for my family and the love and understanding they give to me, I give thanks for the time I have to discover myself, I give thanks for the new friends I made and the chance to re-connect with old friends. The chance to laugh and cry and feel and pray.<br />
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To You, I give thanks!MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-14305367046431070872011-09-01T08:32:00.000-07:002011-09-02T03:44:53.259-07:00Let's Go Down Memory LaneIt's the first day of September and an old Earth,Wind and Fire song is stuck in my head: "Do you remember, memories like September....." I think it's an apt song for what I have been seeing on my Facebook account lately. Friends have been adding me to pages that bring me down many memory lanes, specifically the good old school days.<br />
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One of them is from my elementary and high school alma mater, Poveda Learning Centre. From a little pink building in the middle of nowhere, it is now an impressive college in the midst of a bustling city. I remember our distinctly different yellow and white checkered uniform, the giant Tefilin sign marking our site and friends and classmates from those days.<br />
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The early Spanish lessons ingrained in me since our kinder and prep days all the way to high school have been of some use on many occasions, though I am not as fluent as I would like to be. I recall the many childhood games and growing up pains with my close group of friends, daring escapades, lessons learned in and out of the classrooms and funny anecdotes. Many alumnae have posted their own personal bits of trivia and memories that have in turn made me laugh and feel nostalgic. Yes indeed, only Povedans would know about Manang Lumeng, I.W., war ball, Marian songfests, and many more.<br />
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Another Facebook group page I have been added to is my university alma mater, UP Baguio. I welcomed the freedom and diversity that college life brought. This school has also grown from a college to a university. There were so many new buildings and things I saw in my recent visit at the old campus that changed but many still remained the same. Here too, many posted their trivia and stories that made up our memories of those times. We shared our common experiences living in the dorm, terror from the teachers and tales of daring and fun. A true UP Baguio student knows Manang Mani, ghost legends, nod in agreement about certain teachers traits and must have attended at least one rally in their lifetime.<br />
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But what happens after the trips down these memory lanes? I must admit getting addicted for a few days and spending hours reading and catching up on everyone's posts. And you can't but help adding in your own comments and memories. For another laugh, another worry-free moment, another burst of cheer.<br />
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Digging deeper, I realize that these are not just memories. These are the events and institutions that have contributed and helped shaped my life and values. It has not been all fun and laughter but neither was it all pain and discomfort. We learn as we grow and over the years, my thoughts and action have been shaped by my experiences. We put aside the old schoolbooks and games after we finish our schooling. But this does not mean we stop learning. We join the real world, as many say, and carry on with our lives, building careers, homes, reaching for our dreams. Many of the tools we use are part of these memories.<br />
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Sometimes it is good to look back at our our past. I believe it is how we use what we learn that makes us who we are. I am proud to be a Povedan and Iskolar ng Bayan.<br />
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Honor and Excellence. Con Dios sin limites. MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-37430577899081375362011-08-05T09:38:00.000-07:002011-08-05T09:40:03.229-07:00Let's Go Enjoy the Summer!It's already mid-summer and I must say that we are having a great one this year! The good dousing of rain in the spring made the plants healthy and strong and I have been enjoying my backyard so much more. So much has already happened and we have many more days to get the most of this wonderful season.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uvDXQC9mb7c/TjwbG-RRxEI/AAAAAAAAADk/Er4vzUg1Lp4/s1600/purple+flower.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uvDXQC9mb7c/TjwbG-RRxEI/AAAAAAAAADk/Er4vzUg1Lp4/s200/purple+flower.JPG" t$="true" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jGqWYxoP-Ts/TjwcCn_aucI/AAAAAAAAADs/BED0r2uYWmk/s1600/yellow+flowers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jGqWYxoP-Ts/TjwcCn_aucI/AAAAAAAAADs/BED0r2uYWmk/s200/yellow+flowers.JPG" t$="true" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Early in June, my hubby and I took on a new DIY project all stemming from the fact that we got a brand new heavy duty super grill. It took up a lot of space in the backyard so we decided to add a few more cement slabs outdoors. What started with adding just 3 slabs grew to 15 slabs, each one weighing about 105 lbs. each! We worked on it a little bit each day. After hauling, digging, levelling, dumping, sodding ...... we did get the project done and now have a wonderful backyard for entertaining and relaxation.<br />
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Just in time too, as we enjoyed a wonderful visit and reunion with my side of the family. The open space enhanced the great barbeque meal prepared on the grill. We have had many more meals outdoors with special relatives and friends and hope to continue well into the cold season. But that still seems a distant reality.<br />
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On a personal note, I have been learning and getting a sense of fulfillment doing volunteer work. It is a good feeling to give something of oneself and not expect anything in return. It has slowly added to my self-worth and opened up empathy for those who need extra help.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BpHfzKuz70A/TjwbZrtrjDI/AAAAAAAAADo/jr3RxXxiRXw/s1600/park1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BpHfzKuz70A/TjwbZrtrjDI/AAAAAAAAADo/jr3RxXxiRXw/s400/park1.JPG" t$="true" width="400" /></a></div>And it certainly has not been all work and chores! We have been finding ways to enjoy the sun and the outdoors. Visits to the many wonderful parks in our area, attending street festivals, swimming and spending quality time together as a family. Not to forget my new hobby, birdwatching and doing my best to capture wonderful summer photos. <br />
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So how have you been spending your summer? Take a little time off to share with me and maybe I will get to join you!MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-75513800676961460462011-05-21T17:10:00.000-07:002011-05-21T17:10:20.716-07:00Let's Go Enjoy the Long Weekend!It's the first official long weekend to kick off the warmer weather! In Canada, the May long weekend to celebrate Victoria Day (the Queen's birthday) is enough reason to celebrate.<br />
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For most people, it is the time to bring out the grill for barbeque, visit the garden centres and start planting or make the trek to the north and open up the cottage. Whatever you end up doing, let's all keep our fingers crossed for great weather. I know rain makes the grass grow greener and brings flowers but we had more rain this May than sunny days.<br />
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I have started planting in my small garden and this year experimented with planting some flowers from seed. It's a lesson in patience since it seems to be taking forever to sprout into little seedlings. Today I just saw the tiniest greens peeping out and didn't imagine I would get excited over that!<br />
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Finally, we have a chance to use the new and improved grill. Hubby must be all smiles to play with this new toy all summer long. Grilling season has begun at our home and we look forward to healthier choices like grilled veggies but of course we can't resist the <em>Pinoy inihaw</em> too! <br />
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How are you spending your long weekends? Let me know what you plan to do to have fun!MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-57452144213392834752011-05-06T11:17:00.000-07:002011-05-06T11:17:33.771-07:00Let's Go Celebrate Mother's Day!<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is a saying that goes, "You will have only repaid your mother your dues once you have become a mother yourself." I guess this is generally true because only when you become a mother do you feel all the physical and emotional pains of being one. Now that I realize how much work and sacrifice a mother gives to bring happiness and comfort to their children, I thank my mom a million times over for all that she has done for me.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mothers are not after the material gifts from their children. I remember the times at work when my friends and I would show around our children's handmade cards and projects for Mother's Day. We all beamed with pride at our little ones perfect creations. We displayed them like priceless trophies for all to see.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So this Mother's Day, do something special for your mother. If you have no idea what to get her and don't know what she wants, maybe this article on the <a href="http://www.infobarrel.com/The_Fictitious_Interview_with_the_Worlds_Top_10_Mothers_for_Mothers_Day">World's Top 10 Mothers</a> will help. Why not spend the day with her and give the gift of time. If she is across the miles, give her a call and say how much she means to you. Surprise her by doing your chores without being told. Put some music in her mp3 player or phone. Treat her to her favorite coffee shop for dessert. Shower her with flowers. But whatever you do, make sure that you tell her that you love and appreciate her.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hCLg1hgqIAo/TcQ5ocExqjI/AAAAAAAAADg/TnZoVoDPMHg/s1600/orchids+for+mom.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hCLg1hgqIAo/TcQ5ocExqjI/AAAAAAAAADg/TnZoVoDPMHg/s400/orchids+for+mom.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orchids are one of my mom's favorite flowers.<br />
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</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">To my Mommy, I love you and wish we could spend the day together! Thank you for being there for me and doing your best to raise me as an honest and caring person. Stay strong and I pray we see each other again soon. Happy Mother's Day!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div>MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-76766673274212194362011-04-27T13:16:00.000-07:002011-04-27T13:16:45.076-07:00Let's Go Volunteer!<div style="text-align: justify;">National Volunteer Week in Canada was on April 10-16, 2011. However, there were many volunteer events held throughout the whole month. I had been sending many volunteer applications since becoming unemployed, but I didn't get a match up until recently.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a87CYzCQ5kE/Tbh4FZKqdYI/AAAAAAAAADY/o3sQx2SOTW4/s1600/100_3147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a87CYzCQ5kE/Tbh4FZKqdYI/AAAAAAAAADY/o3sQx2SOTW4/s320/100_3147.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">My neighborhood mall was hosting a clean up event for Earth Day and I gladly accepted the call. I was happy about this because I believe we should save the environment for ourselves and for future generations. All I had to do was show up that morning and get ready to go outdoors. It was a cold and windy day but luckily the rain didn't come. I had on 5 layers of clothing topped by the brightly-colored volunteer shirt they gave us to wear. It sure was easy to spot us even from a great distance!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">After a brief welcome speech from the mall management, all volunteers joined their teams and headed for the outdoor mall area they were assigned to clean. My team of 8 people cleaned up the surrounding area near the grocery store and the highway. Three of them were employees of the mall and the rest of us we re shoppers and students. Armed with our poking sticks, a rake, garbage bags and garbage bin, we picked up trash bit by bit. By the end of the morning, we had gathered approximately 10 bags of garbage!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>People do not realize that even the smallest piece of wrapper or cigarette butt they toss aside hurts the environment. The earth is our only home and all of us must do our best to protect it. Picking up trash may not be a glamorous task but somehow we all did our small part to <a href="http://www.infobarrel.com/Can_You_Still_Find_A_Random_Act_of_Kindness">make a difference</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c2Yqx0L_bAg/Tbh3x0uxc0I/AAAAAAAAADU/kKoKLknRyA4/s1600/Leave+my+mark..JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c2Yqx0L_bAg/Tbh3x0uxc0I/AAAAAAAAADU/kKoKLknRyA4/s320/Leave+my+mark..JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We ended our <a href="http://www.infobarrel.com/5_Good_Reasons_to_Volunteer_in_Your_Community">volunteer work </a>with the outdoor barbecue the mall provided. Despite the cold, it was a good experience and I even made some new friends. We also got some free flower seeds to plant in our own gardens. All volunteers were able to sign a board and make their mark to commemorate the day. I look forward to doing it again next year! </div>MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-9897264299020463132011-04-08T17:59:00.000-07:002011-04-08T17:59:46.940-07:00Let's Go Do A Good DeedI tried an experiment this week. One day I decided to see how many random acts of kindness I would witness. I counted 21 good deeds in one day! You can read all about my <a href="http://www.infobarrel.com/Can_You_Still_Find_A_Random_Act_of_Kindness">experience </a>as I travelled from home on the subway.<br />
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Sometimes it it easier for us to ignore strangers that we meet or encounter as we go about our daily routine. During our morning commutes, we tend to close our eyes to snatch a few minutes of sleep and fail to see the elderly person needing a seat. Some people just ignore them purposely!<br />
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At the grocery, we can get impatient at the cashier who is taking too long to ring up our purchases. Perhaps we fail to observe that she too is tired from standing up the whole day.<br />
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Is there anything we can do to make a difference in someone else's life? Sometimes even a smile will help to make someone's day brighter. During this Lenten season, I challenge you to do at least one random act of kindness and see what change you can bring to a stranger's life.MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-51536423687758849402011-03-31T07:41:00.000-07:002011-03-31T07:41:50.408-07:00Go With Mo: Let's Go: On a Holiday!<a href="http://gowithmo.blogspot.com/2011/03/lets-go-on-holiday.html?spref=bl">Go With Mo: Let's Go: On a Holiday!</a>: "Rolling into the second quarter of 2011, I can't wait to leave the snow and cold winds behind. The clammy hand of winter is trying it's best..."MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6998761228132847351.post-57130411007140934422011-03-31T07:39:00.000-07:002011-03-31T07:39:06.917-07:00Let's Go: On a Holiday!<div style="text-align: justify;">Rolling into the second quarter of 2011, I can't wait to leave the snow and cold winds behind. The clammy hand of winter is trying it's best to hang on but the cool breaths of spring is helping to unclench its grasp. I'm sure you will echo my sentiment that it's time for a change.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A great way to bring in some change is to go on a holiday. It can be a short weekend trip or maybe the dream vacation you have been planning for is due. Any time away from your normal routine will surely be a welcome break. So drag yourself out of your winter blues and plan your way into your best holiday yet.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are many types of holidays or breaks you can take. If you still have your <a href="http://www.infobarrel.com/Top_6_Fun_Things_Teenagers_Enjoy_During_March_Break">March break</a> hangover with your kids, why not take a weekend off alone with your partner? Even an overnight stay at a nearby town can give you both a breather and some quality time together. Who knows, maybe your kids need some time away from their parents too!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another break you can plan is an all girls (or all guys) get-together. Start your day with some pampering like a visit to the parlor for a manicure and pedicure. Or a long brunch at your favorite restaurant is a good time to relax and catch up on news. Then spend the night together at someone's home for a grownup sleepover. It would be nice to re-connect with your peers and maybe watch a movie together. For the men, maybe watching a sports event would allow them to yell out their pent-up winter blahs.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Family time with your own parents and siblings can also be a good idea. Invite them over for a visit or attend a gardening show with them. Spend some time at a garden center to help them plan this year's garden. Accompany your parents to their social or community events or just spend quiet time together reminiscing about your past family vacations.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you enjoy group activities with your family friends, call them for a quick powwow and start planning your annual camping or fishing trip. It is also a good time to check out your equipment to see if it needs replacement or additional supplies. Now you will know what to keep an eye out for when the spring sales come around.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For the longer haul trips, check online for the trending destinations or visit your local travel agent for brochures about your <a href="http://www.infobarrel.com/Plan_Your_Dream_Vacation">dream vacation</a>. Some people love a place so much they go back each year while some are more adventurous and try a new destination everytime. But whatever you decide, it is always good to be prepared and <a href="http://www.infobarrel.com/Travellers_Companion_A_Notebook">make your list</a>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So dust up your luggage, pack away the winter wear and get ready for your best holidays ever!</div>MoGohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10800270773924109280noreply@blogger.com0