-
When the Wind Changed: Living Through the Fall of the Berlin Wall
The author reflects on the significant impact of the Berlin Wall’s fall in November 1989, recalling personal memories of living through that momentous event. They express the emotional weight of witnessing history unfold, emphasizing how it reshaped identities and futures, while linking it to the song “Wind of Change.”
-
Ambrose’s Choice: One Letter, a Lifetime of Change
Ambroise Abraham Richard, born in 1815 in a French-Canadian community in Québec, faced significant choices shaped by political unrest and personal circumstances. His decision to migrate for land and opportunity in Ontario led to cultural adaptation and the anglicization of his surname to Richards, impacting his descendants’ identity and legacy profoundly.
-
Basketball’s Inventor and My Family: A Shared Heritage
The author reflects on their family’s history, particularly how their ancestors, the McKenzies, were part of the Scottish community in Ramsay Township, Ontario, where Dr. James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, spent his formative years. Through genealogy research, she discovers that their families lived as neighbors, attended the same school, and participated in local events.…
-
The Great North East Blackout of 2003
In August 2003, a massive power outage hit the northeastern and midwestern United States, Ontario, and a small part of Québec, known as the Blackout of 2003. Caused by several faults and technical glitches, it affected millions and led to chaotic traffic and widespread disruptions. Despite the darkness, some places, like The Stampede Coral, stayed…
-
Momento Mori: An Evening with Spirits
On the anniversary of Homer Watson’s death, my friend Amy and I attended a unique paranormal investigation at Homer Watson House & Gallery in Kitchener, Ontario. The evening included a signature cocktail, an introduction to TOPS (The Ontario Paranormal Society), and a discussion on Homer Watson’s connection to spiritualism. Before delving into the investigation, we…
-
The Rolling Stones: UNZIPPED
The Rolling Stones, love them or hate them, they’ve left an undeniable mark on the music world. My journey with them started with a cassette tape from my mom’s Columbia House subscription, and I’ve been a fan ever since. From their early days at Edith Grove to the mega success they are today, they’ve defined…
-
On Genealogy: The Life of WWI Pte. Émile Lamothe
This post is an update to a genealogy blog about Émile Lamothe, covering his life and military service during WWI. Born in 1897 in Bonfield, Ontario, Émile was drafted into the 1st Depot Battalion, 1st Central Ontario Regiment in 1918. His short stature and single status classified him as Class One, Category A2. Despite limited…
-
SUV Camping – Manitoba to South Western Ontario
I embarked on a 5-day road trip from Dauphin, MB to Kitchener, ON, opting for SUV camping to break up the long drive. On the first day, I explored Gimli, MB, visiting the Viking Statue, Harbour Wall, and Gimli Glider Museum. Later, I camped at Rushing River Provincial Park near Kenora, ON. The second day…
-
Urbex: The Little Ghost Town of Insinger, Saskatchewan
While driving to Saskatoon, I discovered the ghost town of Insinger, Saskatchewan. Once thriving with over 100 residents, it peaked mid-20th century but declined due to economic shifts. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church, built in 1942, highlights its heritage. Today, Insinger features abandoned buildings and serves as a poignant reminder of prairie community changes.
-
20 Years Later. Where Were You on 9/11?
The events of September 11, 2001 shook the world, leaving an indelible mark on a generation. This personal account reflects the shock and disbelief felt as the day unfolded, with vivid memories of the tragic events and the impact they had. The aftermath of the attacks, the ongoing construction at Ground Zero, and visits to…
-
On Travel: Last Stop, Churchill – My Journey to the Far North
Churchill, Manitoba, is a frontier town on the edge of the Arctic, known for its polar bears, beluga whales, and the Northern Lights. With a population under 900, it’s a remote destination accessed only by train or plane. The town’s unique position attracts wildlife seekers and adventurers from around the world. Visitors should be prepared…
-
On Genealogy: MY Relation to Ezra CORNELL – Founder of Cornell University
This post delves into my surprising ancestral connection to Ezra Cornell, a prominent figure in American history. As a fifth cousin six times removed or a seventh great uncle’s second cousin twice removed, Ezra Cornell was a key figure in the establishment of Cornell University and Western Union. Despite facing hardships, including expulsion from the…
-
Urbex: Exploring the Abandoned Stoll Strawberry Farm
This blog explores the abandoned Stoll Strawberry Farm in Kitchener, focusing on the house and its history. The home consists of a main floor and an upper apartment, with interesting finds including old magazines, a cash register, and deer hoofs. The last owner, a passionate strawberry farmer, tragically passed away in a farming accident. The…
-
YES, I Washed my UGGS in the Washing Machine!
I’m on my third pair of UGGs, which I find super comfy but also quite pricey. I’m considering washing my current pair in the machine as a last resort to save them from the bin, despite warnings against it. After washing, drying, brush restoration, and minor repairs, the UGGs still look good and are given…
-
Urbex: Abandoned Farmhouses in Milton/Oakville
Another awesome #urbex today! I stumbled upon not one, not two, but three abandoned farmhouses to explore. While I actually located 6–7 in a small cluster in the Milton/Oakville area, I’ll focus on these three for today’s post. Interestingly, while reviewing a Cultural Heritage Assessment Report I found online, I discovered that a couple of…
-
Urbex: Exploring Schneider’s Meat Plant!
The author shares a personal reflection on exploring an abandoned meat processing plant in their hometown, which has deep ties to their past. They recount memories of living nearby, including a police evacuation. The plant has a rich history dating back to 1886 and recently transitioned into new commercial developments, preserving the Schneider legacy.
-
Urbex : Exploring the Abandoned Robson-Lang Leather Tannery
Two weekends ago, my friend Thomas and I braved the freezing temperatures to explore an abandoned factory in town. I was surprised to learn it was the old Robson Lang Leather Tannery. Despite the risks and the presence of non-urbexers, we had a super cool time. The factory had an intriguing past as part of…
-
On Genealogy: MY ROYAL CONNECTION to King Louis VIII of France
I’ve always thought I was special — a princess, you might say — and now I have a little weight behind it: my 24th great-grandfather was King Louis VIII of France. This discovery has set my whole genealogical journey on a wild new path, linking me all the way back to the Plantagenets, the royal…
-
Saving Money is Great. Saving Lots of Money is Even Better.
The TLC show “Extreme Cheapskates” may seem exaggerated, but it raises questions about frugality and early retirement. The desire for a minimalist, eco-friendly lifestyle has led to money-saving tips like bulk buying, reusing teabags, and finding free entertainment. Using apps like Groupon and Checkout 51, and embracing fiscal fasts can also help save money. Avoiding…
-
I Can’t Believe They Took Your Life -Toronto Rapper Houdini 🎩 😭
In 2018, a blog post celebrated the rise of Toronto rapper Houdini. With massive Spotify downloads and industry recognition, he seemed destined for greatness. Tragically, on May 26, 2020, he was fatally shot in a senseless act of violence. Friends and fans remember him for his talent, authenticity, and positive impact. Despite the outpouring of…
-
Monster Hunt: My Search for the Ogopogo Lake Monster
The post describes a walk around Kelowna, BC, in search of the legendary Ogopogo, a creature said to reside in Lake Okanagan. Ogopogo is often compared to the Loch Ness Monster and is a subject of fascination for cryptozoology enthusiasts. The post details the characteristics and sightings of Ogopogo and emphasizes the beauty of Lake…
-
COVID-19: Day 19 … How Long is this Gonna Last?
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented changes and challenges, altering daily life profoundly. With schools closed, social distancing measures in place, and numerous cancellations, the impact is widespread. Essential workers face shortages of protective gear, while panic buying leads to empty grocery store shelves. Government interventions, border closures, and financial assistance programs aim to…
-
COVID-19: My 12 Month Trip of a Life Time Was Canceled, I Quit My Job, Sold My Car & Rented Out My Condo !
The post reflects the writer’s experience in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on their planned year-long adventure in South East Asia. They describe the emotional journey of adjusting to the unexpected change of plans, and their decision to make the best of the situation. This includes enrolling in online courses, facing…
-
My Journey Through The World of Functional Medicine Pt 1
The writer has been experiencing severe fatigue, a rash on their face, and a host of other troubling symptoms. Despite seeking traditional medical help, they found no answers and felt unheard. Turning to functional medicine for a holistic approach, they are now working with a doctor to address their symptoms through dietary changes, detoxification, and…
-
Only 4.5 Months Til I Leave for SEAsia!
It feels just not too long ago I had posted that I was traveling all over South East Asia and here it is ONLY 4.5 months away! I can hardly believe it! I have changed my departure date so many times – it was originally end of February and then I had postponed it to…
-
Meet The Person Responsible For Your Life
I’ve seen a lot of buzz on the internet lately about some version of the post below – some positive and others negative – and neither are right or wrong – it’s all a matter of perspective and opinions depending on how you view the world. I am of the belief that as individuals we…
-
You Have the Life You’re Willing to Put Up With
“You have the life you’re willing to put up with”. Think about it, what are the problems of those heinous dark shadows currently spoiling the warmth and happiness of your otherwise blissful life? 🎯 Do you hate your job? 🎯 Are you in a bad relationship? 🎯 Is there something wrong with your health? Fine! Get a new…
-
Holy Crow! I Conquered my BIGGEST Fear!
So, you think you can’t do something? You’re too scared? 😱. You can, you are scared AND do it anyway! Anyone who knows me knows I’m deathly afraid of heights. Ask my kids how I am when we take off on a plane. Ask them which one’s hand used to hurt worse from the nail marks…
-
What’s The Connection Between INTEGRITY and LITTERING?
I spent last weekend in New York City (NYC), I was attending a leaders course in Manhattan with 350 of the eastern seaboard’s most brilliant, inspirational beings, like no kidding – this powerful group is up to big things! While we were out and about enjoying our lunch break, we spent some time walking about…
-
Are You True Crime Obssessed?
I have a ton of obsessions — an obsession with lip chap, an obsession with recycling, an obsession with traveling, with being right (kidding) and an obsession with true crime. What is it about serial killers that fascinates huge swaths of the population? What really happened to JonBenét Ramsay? Where is Madeleine McCann? Did Michael…
-
What Does it mean to be Powerfully Single?
I really hope you’ve all been awesome and living your best lives! I got in not too long ago from dinner with one of my good friends who is home for a visit from Japan – she and her family moved there 2 years ago on a work assignment and I haven’t been able to…
-
Recipe: All Day Egg Muffins
These egg muffins are loaded with all your breakfast favourites! Perfect for busy mornings and quick on the go snacks … I’ve been eating a lot of eggs lately and was looking for a way to change up the ways I’m cooking them, and decided to go back to an old fan favourite. Recipe makes…
-
I’d Rather Have a Passport Full of Stamps
I never used to think this way. I used to be of the belief that I wanted the great house, the awesome vehicle, a closet full of name brand clothes – have a Louis Vuitton on my shoulder and Louboutin’s on my feet … I have all that and more. And, guess what? …. it…
-
Product Review: Freshii Juice Cleanse
It’s Monday night, I just competed my coaching call, did some work, just finished some research on a new project I’m working on …. and about 5 days ago I finished a 3 day JUICE CLEANSE … I’ve done juice cleanses in the past, but, honestly it’s been a hot minute since I did my…
-
What Do You Do to Enhance Your Life?
⚠️ I am a ridiculously PASSIONATE person, I don’t think that anyone who knows me would disagree. That works to my advantage the majority of the time and at times to my disadvantage … sometimes I need to be dialled down or be more mindful in the way that I communicate 💬 my passion, and, it’s…
-
10 days of gratitude: day 10 – MY BIG BEAUTIFUL HEART!
IT’S DAY 10/10 and I could keep going with my list of gratitudes … but I’ll wrap the posts at 10, as promised. Randy Travis wrote a song years ago called My Heart Cracked … some of the lyrics go: Shattered dreams, lay everywhere Broken promises, are all we share I finally took, all I…
-
10 days of gratitude: day 9 – MY BODY!
DAY 9 – the 2nd last day of things that I am grateful for …. it’s able, it’s healthy, it’s responsive and it’s mine … … today I am grateful for my body. It takes a lot for me to actually say that. Like most women, I became down on myself for having gained…
-
10 days of gratitude: day 8 – THE SUN!
Today’s blog is going to be quick and very to the point … I woke up, felt the warm sun on my face after a long winter, I see the trees trying to bloom their first leaves … and it hit me, I’m grateful for THAT! I simple act of nature, and I’m grateful for…
-
10 days of gratitude: day 7 – MY MISTAKES
…. we all make them, non intentional – oversights. Today I focus on being grateful for my mistakes Made perhaps via clouded judgment, your perspective of the world, opening your mouth when you should have thought beforehand or that stupid phone call or text. WE ALL MAKE THEM AND GUESS WHAT YOU’LL MAKE MORE ……
-
10 days of gratitude: day 6 – MY BELONGINGS!
This morning I woke up, made my tea with my shiny red kettle, poured it into my large Starbucks mug, sat in my lovely sea-foam green chair in my lovely new condominium, with my MacBook Air to write this blog. After which, I will put on my Canada Goose jacket and Ralph Lauren boots and…
-
10 days of gratitude: day 5 – MY MENTORS!
I’m 1/2 way through my 10 days of gratitude with this post! It hasn’t been hard at all finding things to be grateful for … Post #5 is about the people in my life who have had an impact, in ways some people have no idea that they even have. Some people are just so…
-
10 days of gratitude: day 4 – MY CHARACTER!
Ok, we are onto day 4 TODAY, I have so many things to be grateful for – we all do – we just have to take stock of everything little thing – things don’t always have to move mountains to be significant enough to be grateful for – in fact for me it’s quite the…
-
10 days of gratitude: day 3 – MY SITUATION!
How are we feeling today for Day 3 of our 10 days of GRATITUDE? Today’s #3 can certainly be difficult to think of in gratitude especially when we’re down in the dumps, we’ve had our heart broken, lost a loved one or even got passed over for a job we really wanted. #3 takes a…
-
10 days of gratitude: day 2 – MA FAMILLE!
Welcome to day 2 of practicing gratitude … Thanks for joining me along my gratitude journey. It always feels more productive for me to put pen to paper (or fingers to keys in this case). There’s obviously a reason counsellors will suggest journalling, it just feels good to get it out there! I’ve been practicing…
-
10 days of gratitude: day 1 – MY LIFE!
I’ve been trying to figure out what to write about next. I wasn’t into researching any more on my family tree. But, I have been spending some time determining what I wanted to do the first month of my move to SEAsia (next year – woo hoo!). Enter INDIA, I have been wanting to spend…
-
On Genealogy: My Connection to Explorer, Louis Joliet!
It’s dreary and rainy out today, and I don’t wanna get out of bed. Since I am taking a bit of a break from traveling, I thought I’d focus more so on the Genealogy part of my blog … I still have so many lines that I need to “EXPLORE”. I select which one to…
-
On Genealogy: Updated DNA Ethnicity Estimate
As you know, I’m a genealogy nut, or more like nerd. I love working on my family tree, although in the past 6-8 months I’ve barely looked at it more or less worked on it. I can’t even remember the last genealogy blog I posted (hang on let me check — other than a quick…
-
On Travel: Vietnam – What I Loved and What I Didn’t
I’ve been back from Vietnam for about 2 weeks now. I have to admit it’s been tough being back – to the cold, the snow, back to working 9-5, not traveling … Today I want to share a little about my overall experience in Vietnam. What I loved, things I wished I had done, and…
-
On Travel: 24-hour Transit Into Guangzhou, China Without a Visa
As I write this, I’m home, in bed, it’s 3:00 AM, and I cannot sleep. My body still thinks it’s 3:00 PM, jet lag sucks! So I thought, what better time than to start my layover in China 🇨🇳 blog. The process was a lot easier than I imagined, so I thought I’d share in…
-
On Travel: Mekong Delta, Vietnam
tạm biệt Việt Nam Today, I left Vietnam. The country I have come to love over the last 3.5 weeks. It’s a mix of emotions to have to go back to Canada. I’ll miss it there, I’ll miss exploring, the food, the culture, the adventuring and of course, my eldest daughter. On the other hand,…
-
On Travel: Da Nang and Hoi An, Vietnam
Xin chào! I hope all is WELL with all of you —- I’m continuing my travels through Vietnam this week – in Đà Nẵng and the ancient city of Hội An. I am more than pleased with my trip to Vietnam to date. It’s truly a beautiful country, steeped in a long, difficult history…
-
On Travel: chúc mừng năm mới from Vietnam!
I’d been planning this trip for months -> months of research, watching YouTube vlogs, booking hotels, finding places to sightsee- which cities to visit? What to see while I was there? Did I want to start in the North and travel South or vice versa? I decided to fly into Ha Noi and travel South…
-
I Just Completed #dryjanuary!
#dryjanuary, have you heard of it? Dry January is a public health campaign urging people to abstain from alcohol for the month of January. I just heard about it in December and thought “why not!” So, Why Ditch The Alcohol? Millions of people pledge to ditch the booze every January! Participants testify to how great…
-
Remember That Baby From Three Men and a Baby?
I remember watching Three Men and a Baby when it came out in 1987. I was 13 years old. It was right up there for me that year along with Dirty Dancing, Labamba, Throw Mama from the Train and Teen Wolf Too! Awww, those were the good ol’ days, weren’t they? For people of a…
-
concert count: update
Original post (Head to the bottom to see the concerts I attended in 2018) I love MUSIC and to me there’s nothing better than going to a concert. Last year I wrote a blog counting all of my concerts and I wanted to continue that list – so I have updated it here in this…
-
On Genealogy: The English LEE Side of ME …
The blog focuses on the author’s English roots, particularly the Lee family from Yorkshire. It describes their blue-collar lifestyle in Meltham Mills, Gramma Sally’s origins, her struggles as an orphan, marriage during WWII, and immigration to Canada as a war bride. The narrative highlights family life, challenges, and memories until her passing in 1993.
-
10 Shows I’m Binge Watching Right Now
I remember a time long before Netflix, Amazon Red, Zulu, YouTube Channels and Android Boxes when Summer was the worst time of the year for TV – months of repeats until the Fall schedule started … Then again, I also remember a time that your cable box was connected to your TV by a cable…
-
Dad, It’s Been 4 Years and I Still Miss You Soooo Much💔
Dad, Every November 18th since 2014 is a painful reminder of your absence in my life. I wish I could turn back time and live out every single day of my life as if it were a grand celebration of you. Had we only known you’d be taken from us so soon and so unexpectedly…
-
#DTKLove 💛
I was taking a walk with the dog today around my neighbourhood – I moved back to KW just over a year ago. I was born and raised here. Did a 5 year stint in Toronto (Toronto proper, not the GTA – at Dufferin and St. Clair) and then spent 2 years in Manitoba –…
-
Super Soul Sunday Thoughts🧡
I wanted to share authentically with you today for #supersoulsunday I’m often told by people “you’re so strong” , “you’ve been through so much, and have come through the other side better”, “I wish I had your strength”, “you look great for your age” (and thank you, I think I do too – for any…
-
On Set: Update – Murdoch Mysteries Was Shooting in my Hometown …
Originally posted on December 31, 2017 UPDATE: Sooooo, I’m finally finished Season 11 and I was able to watch the episode that was shot down the street from me in September of 2017. I’ll explain a bit the scene I was there for. By the point that I arrived Yannick’s scene had already been shot…
-
On Travel: Beautiful Vancouver, BC and Area
Good afternoon, good morning or good evening, folks, wherever you’re reading this from. I’m writing this today from beautiful British Columbia (BC) – it’s so true that they immortalize it on their license plates. I’m out here visiting my youngest daughter and her boyfriend, who moved here a few months ago to enjoy a…
-
On Health: Update – Whole Food Plant-Based Diet
A while ago, I posted a blog called On Health: My 30-Day Trial of the Whole Food Plant-Based Diet. I’ve long since completed my trial, and I promised you all an update … so here it is. So, here are a few of my takeaways from that trial … Here are a few of my…
-
Exclusive Interview With Up-And-Coming Rapper – Houdini
Today I’m chatting with HOUDINI – a rapper from Toronto, Ontario (aka The 6). I came across his music earlier this year, when I heard his feature on Came to Conquer with Northside Benji. At that time he was still going by the stage name daHoudini. This kid’s got something special, I promise you, he’s gonna…
-
On Genealogy: Willis Carrier – One COOL Dude!
I haven’t written a blog on genealogy in what feels like a long while. We’ve been going through a bit of a heat wave in Southwestern Ontario the last few days, it’s cooler and less humid today at around 25 Celsius. For the better part of the last week, it has been hitting near 40…
-
The Storm Chaser in Me
The Amateur Storm Chaser: Embracing My Inner Nerd 🌪️ I have such diverse interests … although I love fashion, makeup, and dressing nicely in name luxury brand clothes, a huge part has “nerd” labeled all over me, and I’m most definitely not offended by it; I’ve embraced my inner nerdiness. One of the things I…
-
On Dreams: my plans to move to south east asia
If you’re new to following my blog (thank you for supporting my journey, I do truly appreciate each of my followers -and please feel free to tell a friend, I try to keep my topics relevant and authentic to me as a person and life), then you likely know that I am …. wait for it…
-
On Health: Why I’m Choosing Complimentary Care
It’s been a while since my last blog entry, I’ve been feeling so many different things lately, and as I started to type I thought I was actually going to talk about empty nest syndrome, or my plans to move to South East Asia in a few years … but as I started – I…
-
On Travel: Cuba, Authentico!
It’s miserable out as I write this – it’s cold and snowing. To think, just yesterday I was in Cuba and today … back to reality. I hadn’t been to Cuba in about 17 years, but my best memory is that of an aqua blue ocean, sugar-white beaches and mojitos, so, I was anxious to…
-
On Health: My 30 day Trial of the Whole Food, Plant Based Diet
Last week myself along with about 19 other colleagues started a trial whole food, plant based (WFPB) diet. The trial is for one month, and we are to stick to the diet with a rule of 80/20. 8 days in and I am starting to believe more than ever that so much of what we…
-
On Genealogy: The Loyalist, The Spy and The American Revolution
I took a bit of a break from my close relatives because I found another interesting leaf hint and decided to follow it. I saw this one before, but, I felt I would have to do a lot of research so I passed. Then I came across something else on the same person and decided…
-
On Genealogy: My 2x Grand-Parents – Louis Allard & Eva Beaulieu
This line continues down my maternal grand-mother side. This is the story of my great great gramma and grampa on my grandma’s dad’s side. This is the story of Louis Napoléon Allard and Eva Beaulieu. Louis’ Birth Louis Napoléon Allard was born on/about November 24, 1874, in Curran, Ontario to Marie Louise Gariepy, age 20, and…
-
On Genealogy: My Maternal Great Grand-Parents: Palma Duchesne & Laurette Allard
I’ve been trying to determine where next to follow my ancestry line to and which line to write about. Instead of writing about some distant relative, I thought I’d start writing with those a bit closer to me and write backward. I am going to start with my great grand parents on my…
-
Recipe: Unguilty Pleasure – Yummy Protein Cake in a Cup
My first blog of 2018 …. and it’s a recipe. I’m in crunch mode – I’m taking the kids and I to Cuba in no less than 5 weeks ….. The other day, I had the sweetest tooth after dinner and immediately after eating a yummy healthy dinner, I dug right into a Caramel Sea Salt…
-
On Set: Murdoch Mysteries Was Shooting in my Hometown …
It’s UFC night here at the house, it’s also New Years Eve Eve – the boys are watching UFC and I’m blogging my second to last entry of the year. I’m into UFC but am truly waiting for the Cyborg vs Holly Holm fight. Not that this has anything at all in common with UFC…
-
Recipe: Christmas Winner – Ambrosia Salad
It’s 5 minutes to midnight I just sat down for the 1st time since 1:00 PM. The last thing on my to do list was make the Christmas fave … Ambrosia Salad. I make this EVERY year for my mom, she loves it. Of course the kids love it too – I mean who doesn’t…
-
On Genealogy: John Ritter is my 9th Cousin, 2x removed!
Rev. Obadiah Holmes definitely has some Famous kin. I’ve covered President Lincoln & Amelia Earhart and now I’m covering my connection to comedic legend, John Ritter, best known as Jack Tripper. Another descendant of Rev. Holmes, is Willis Carrier, the inventor of air conditioning (I really love this guy on hot, sticky, humid days!) –…
-
On Genealogy: Say What? I’m Connected To Amelia Earhart!
My lineage just gets better and better! To date I have discovered a relation to a King of France, a US President, one of the Filles du Roi, an explorer, a colleague of Samuel de Champlain, a great Uncle who died in WWI in Flanders … these are just some of my finds … and…
-
On Genealogy: My Connection to President Lincoln
This is one of my MOST EXCITING ancestral finds to date! The connection, albeit extremely distant, is with one of the most impressive U.S. Presidents of all time… Honest Abe is my 6th cousin, 5x removed. I said it was distant… hehe! I posted yesterday about my connection to Obadiah Holmes, the incredible Baptist minister…
-
On Genealogy: Whipped for Baptist Beliefs – My Connection to Rev. Obadiah Holmes
My Ancestor, and a Founder of Religious Liberty in America Ok, it’s safe to say we all know that I’m a genealogy NUT, I won’t even try to deny it. I love learning, and I love history, especially when it comes to MY OWN. They say to know where you’re going, you’ve got to know…
-
On Genealogy: My Ancestor Was an “Afflicted” in the Salem Witch Trials!
The author reflects on their ancestral connection to the Salem Witch Trials, particularly focusing on Elizabeth Weston, who accused Lydian and Sarah Dustin of witchcraft. The trials, rooted in Puritan beliefs and societal pressures, led to miscarriages of justice, exemplified by Lydia’s tragic death despite her acquittal, highlighting the historical significance of words and accusations.
-
Tough Times Don’t Last, Tough People Do 💪🏻
I actually wrote this last year ago but didn’t post it because I wanted to respect my brother’s privacy. I’m really trying to show how strong he is. This is a tribute to his grit and will power. We’ve all had a time in our lives that are beyond difficult to cope. When you wonder…
-
no dress rehearsal this is our life: the passing of canadian legend – Gord Downie 😭
‘We Are Less As A Country Without Gord Downie In It’ – Prime Minister Trudeau I had to wait a few days to write this, I just watched the documentary Long Time Running two days ago … so I needed to collect my thoughts and emotions before I got to it. I want the WORLD…
-
On Travel: Philadelphia, The City of Brotherly Love
🎶 “In West Philadelphia not born nor raised, in Kdub is where I spent most of my days 🎶” which is why I decided to take my next trip to Philly. I love to travel, I love history – all kinds of history and Philadelphia is steeped deep in American history. The primary reason for our trip to…
-
Your Perception is Your Reality
A few weeks ago I wrote a blog called Wisdom Warrior: My Journey Toward Authenticy wherein I talked about perception, about reframing your mindset. “Perspective is a powerful thing isn’t it? When you can reframe an experience, you can often change what happens as a result”. Have you ever wondered about how you perceive yourself…
-
Opting on Adopting: Our Rescue Dog Ellie
Did you know that each year at least 600,000 dogs are euthanized in Canada, simply because too many pets come into shelters and too few people consider adoption when looking for a pet? I decided to write this blog as I sat here watching a bit of TV and looked over at Ellie, my 3…
-
On Travel: My Tokyo Experience
こんにちは – Kon’nichiwa Life can be so complicated at times can’t it? My life in particular has been nutty as of late … and at the spur of the moment, I made a decision – we all have choices and decisions to make each day of our lives in the betterment of ourselves, our lives, our…
-
Wisdom Warrior: My Journey Toward Authenticity
I consider myself more of a spiritual person than a religious one. I meditate, chant and listen to Hindi mantras/vedas, started to re-practice Yoga, believe in Om Namah Shivaya (ॐ नमः शिवाय) which literally translates to “I honour the divinity that dwells within me, I bow to Shiva, my true identity” – I believe in…
-
Kingston Penitentiary: Canada’s Alcatraz – MY TOUR
Tours through Kingston Penitentiary offer a unique opportunity to go behind the walls of Canada’s oldest and most notorious maximum security prison. Its doors closed in 2013. And now offers guided tours which provide an up-close look at this historical building which predates Canadian confederation. The first time we went to Kingston in 2013, the…
-
Monster Hunt: My Search for the Manipogo Monster
Pseudoscience: The study of and search for animals, especially legendary animals, usually to evaluate the possibility of their existence. I’ve always been intrigued with folkloric creatures like the Loch Ness monster, Sasquatch, Chupacabra, Abominable Snowman, Kraken, Sea Serpents, The Mothman, Thunderbirds, and the Jersey Devil, just to name a few. Today I am an acting cryptozoologist!…
-
Recipe: ‘Shake’ Off That Summer Heat: EASY Homemade Vanilla Coffee Protein Shake
This iced coffee recipe is super easy to make and is loaded up with protein, so you’re getting your caffeine boost and protein all in one. My version uses vanilla-flavored protein powder and has a fairly strong coffee flavour. Gather Your Ingredients (makes 1 serving) 1 cup of ice 1 cup chilled strong-brewed coffee (using…
-
Messages from Beyond: How My Dad Connects With Me
Do you believe in the after life? Do you believe that your loved ones have a way of communicating with you after they’ve crossed? Has One of These Ever Happened to You? Have you ever come across a random dime in the oddest of places? Has a song ever come on the radio at the exact…
-
On Genealogy: My Genetic Ancestry DNA Results Are In!
I know I already posted a blog today. But, as I was walking out the door, I got an email from Ancestry that my DNA results were in and I had to check them stat! If you’ve been a regular visitor to my blog, you’ll likely know that I’ve been working hard on my family…
-
On Genealogy: My Quaker Connection; Descendant of John Milk, British Colonial America, 1662
On Genealogy: My Quaker Connection; Descendant of John Milk, British Colonial America, 1662. Today’s blog on genealogy #5 is on the lineage of the Milk family. This surname has long been associated with the county of Norfolk, England, where it appears about twenty-two times in proportion to each 10,000 of the population of that county. …
-
“Napalm Girl”: The Day I Met Kim Phúc – A Life of Survival and Forgiveness
Have you ever seen a photograph so powerful it stays with you for life? I first saw one as a teenager—a naked girl, running, screaming, her skin burning from napalm. I didn’t know her name… until I met her years later. A Photograph That Changed the World As a teenager, I saw a photograph that…
-
Up Close and Personal with The Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull
Some memories stay with you forever, not because they are monumental, but because they are extraordinary Looking back at events in your life, you sometimes gain a whole new appreciation for things you didn’t truly understand at the time. For me, one such moment happened in 7th grade. A Classroom Encounter Like No Other We…
-
On Genealogy: The First Franco-Indigenous Marriage in New France to How I’m Related to Louis Joliet
The author shares their deep obsession with genealogy, tracing their family lineage back to figures from colonial New France, including Olivier Le Tardif and the first documented marriage between a French settler and an Indigenous woman. They highlight personal connections to ancestors and emphasize the journey of understanding heritage through history.
-
Who am I, now?
Last year, the day every parent either can’t wait for or dreads happened, I became an empty nester. When my chids were just wee ones and I could barely grab a moment to myself, I had the age of 42 engrained in my mind. “42, you just gotta stay sane until 42, after that you…
-
Top Mistakes I Made as a First-Time Landlord
Landlord Lessons: What I Learned the Hard Way I’ve been a landlord for about fourteen months now, and overall, I’ve been pretty fortunate. Most of my tenants have been respectful, easy to communicate with, and genuinely decent people. But my most recent experience? Let’s just say it’s had me scratching my head and wondering what,…
-
Welcome to My Life
It’s been awhile since my last blog. I’ve started and stopped so many different blogs but for some reason or another never brought myself to finish them. Today, I invite you on a little journey … Like so many of us, I started strong this past January with the New Years resolutions and the “2017, get…
-
Subscribe
Subscribed
Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
My Tiny World Corner 