The Associated Press
Date: Tuesday May. 29, 2012 9:17 AM ET
CHILTON, Wis. — Lucky, a 7-year-old dairy cow, had been walking with a limp for several weeks when veterinarian Sara Gilbertson was called. Instead of prescribing painkillers, Gilbertson tried an unusual new therapy -- a chiropractic adjustment that included a full-length spinal massage.
Gilbertson rubbed the Holstein's spine by gently squeezing it from neck to tail, pausing to apply firm pressure to one hip and readjust several vertebrae. The cow stood in calm silence, moving only enough to reach another mouthful of hay. Later, as Lucky reclined on a bed of sand, Gilbertson noted with satisfaction how relaxed and comfortable the animal seemed.
Cow comfort has become a key concern for the nation's farmers, who have known for generations that contented cows give more milk. The traditional techniques for keeping cows happy aren't complicated -- feed them well, keep the temperature comfortable and give them room to move around. But some dairy farmers are turning to a new array of creative options intended to keep cows as mellow -- and productive -- as possible.
Some farmers have installed waterbeds for their cows to rest on, while others play classical music. And some hire animal chiropractors to give older cows a tuneup and correct minor issues in calves, all part of the effort to ensure maximum milk output.
Do the methods really work? There's no sound scientific data to back up the claims, but dairy farmers say they can see the difference with their own eyes -- cows are giving more milk, the milk quality is improving and the herds seem to be enjoying the indulgences.
"It's kind of like how an athlete with a sprained ankle isn't as productive," said Larry Meyer, 36, whose parents own the dairy farm in Chilton, Wis., where Lucky and another 115 dairy cows live. "If you can get a cow healthy and back to normal, it makes a difference in their productivity."
Cows can suffer injuries if they slip on a slick spot of concrete or get stepped on by another 1,500-pound bovine, and some calves get their necks kinked during the birthing process. The injuries can cause pain when the animals stand, making them reluctant to jostle for food and leading to compensatory injuries. That, in turn, leads to less milk production.
That's why farmers are willing to spend about $75 per session for a chiropractic adjustment.
"The cows tolerate it incredibly well," said Gilbertson, the veterinarian. "They may be apprehensive at first, until they figure out how good it feels."
Meyer didn't have specific figures on how much milk Lucky gave following her chiropractic treatments, but because her mother was the most productive cow in the herd, he wanted to make sure Lucky was in good shape.
While chiropractic care is reserved for injured cows, dairy farmers also are investing in healthy cows' happiness.
Richard Conrad installed $70,000 waterbeds on his farm in Grafton, Ohio, about a year ago. It took the 220 dairy cows a few months to adjust to the softer surface but now they seem to enjoy it, he said.
"They were real skeptical at first because it was real jiggly," said Conrad, 53, "but once they adapted they didn't look back. They just jump on and stay there."
The result has been milk with fewer impurities and in greater volume -- cows that used to give about 80 pounds of milk per day now average about 90 pounds, Conrad said. However, he couldn't credit the waterbeds with all the improvement; he also upgraded ventilation in his barns and installed misting technology to keep the herd cool.
Dairy farmers commonly adjust air, temperature and lighting to keep cows happy. Some have also installed large rotating brushes that gently scratch the cows' backs and massage their faces and shoulders, said Marcia Endres, a University of Minnesota Extension dairy scientist.
And some dairy producers have employed even more unusual techniques, even in absence of scientific data that justifies their use. In Germany, for example, the Dortmund Concert Hall plays recordings of different classical pieces for specific cows. The hall then serves milk from the respective cows during live concerts featuring those same pieces.
"Which means you'll now be able to both listen to and taste the musical highlights," the hall says in one advertisement.
Dairy experts agree the concept is entertaining, if a bit of a logical stretch. They also agree that dairy farmers need to be careful about introducing new techniques -- music, waterbeds, chiropractic care -- into a herd that's already relatively comfortable.
"Cows are creatures of habit. They like things to stay the same," Endres said. "So many producers like to not introduce too much change. Cows just don't like a lot of weird things happening to them."
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Monday, May 28, 2012
Hesjedal becomes first Canadian to win Giro d'Italia
Updated: Sun May. 27 2012 19:57:21
CTVNews.ca Staff
Cyclist Ryder Hesjedal says he "left everything on the streets of Milan" to become the first Canadian to win the prestigious Giro d'Italia on Sunday.
The Victoria, B.C. native managed to capture the second biggest race behind the Tour de France with a come-from-behind victory over Spain's Joaquin Rodriguez in Sunday's final time trial.
Upon finishing, the 31-year-old Hesjedal said going into Sunday's final stage, he knew he "had to give everything" in order to win.
"I just left everything on the streets of Milan, and I was able to get enough time back and pull it off," Hesjedal told CTV News Channel in a telephone interview from Italy. "That's it. It's just focus, and not giving up the opportunity."
Hesjedal came into the day trailing by 31 seconds, but finished the 30-kilometre stage in 34:15 to win by 16 seconds to capture the pink jersey.
"This is the first time ever that we have had a cyclist in pink in Milan and it's a great day for Canadian cycling," Jacques Landry, the head coach of Cycling Canada, told News Channel. "This is definitely a great feat."
Hesjedal is now the first Canadian to win one of the three Grand Tour races and is an early favourite for next month's Tour de France.
"So far he has proven that he can come up where he has said he can perform and if the Tour de France is his next objective I am certain that he will show us again what he is made of," said Landry.
Hesjedal said he plans to enjoy the next few days, including a celebratory dinner with his teammates, friends and his wife, before drawing up a training plan for the Tour de France.
Hesjedal said his victory was the culmination of "years of hard work."
"It's unreal," he said. "I've been doing this for a long time but it still amazes me what we're able to accomplish. And I'm going to savour this for a long time."
Prime Minister Stephen Harper was among those to praise Hesjedal's victory.
"This remarkable win in one of bicycle racing's most grueling competitions is a testimony to Mr. Hesjedal's training, endurance, skill and competitive spirit," Harper said in a statement.
Meanwhile, Lance Armstrong, the seven-time Tour de France winner, also praised Hesjedal.
"Congratulations to @ryder--hesjedal on his incredible victory in the #giro. Gotta love it when the best man wins," tweeted Armstrong.
CTVNews.ca Staff
Cyclist Ryder Hesjedal says he "left everything on the streets of Milan" to become the first Canadian to win the prestigious Giro d'Italia on Sunday.
The Victoria, B.C. native managed to capture the second biggest race behind the Tour de France with a come-from-behind victory over Spain's Joaquin Rodriguez in Sunday's final time trial.
Upon finishing, the 31-year-old Hesjedal said going into Sunday's final stage, he knew he "had to give everything" in order to win.
"I just left everything on the streets of Milan, and I was able to get enough time back and pull it off," Hesjedal told CTV News Channel in a telephone interview from Italy. "That's it. It's just focus, and not giving up the opportunity."
Hesjedal came into the day trailing by 31 seconds, but finished the 30-kilometre stage in 34:15 to win by 16 seconds to capture the pink jersey.
"This is the first time ever that we have had a cyclist in pink in Milan and it's a great day for Canadian cycling," Jacques Landry, the head coach of Cycling Canada, told News Channel. "This is definitely a great feat."
Hesjedal is now the first Canadian to win one of the three Grand Tour races and is an early favourite for next month's Tour de France.
"So far he has proven that he can come up where he has said he can perform and if the Tour de France is his next objective I am certain that he will show us again what he is made of," said Landry.
Hesjedal said he plans to enjoy the next few days, including a celebratory dinner with his teammates, friends and his wife, before drawing up a training plan for the Tour de France.
Hesjedal said his victory was the culmination of "years of hard work."
"It's unreal," he said. "I've been doing this for a long time but it still amazes me what we're able to accomplish. And I'm going to savour this for a long time."
Prime Minister Stephen Harper was among those to praise Hesjedal's victory.
"This remarkable win in one of bicycle racing's most grueling competitions is a testimony to Mr. Hesjedal's training, endurance, skill and competitive spirit," Harper said in a statement.
Meanwhile, Lance Armstrong, the seven-time Tour de France winner, also praised Hesjedal.
"Congratulations to @ryder--hesjedal on his incredible victory in the #giro. Gotta love it when the best man wins," tweeted Armstrong.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
A lovely birthday
Hello Everyone,
I had a very nice birthday yesterday. We had Crave cupcakes at work and Jerry took me out to dinner. Milestones has a Wednesday night date night menu of $50 for dinner for two (shared appetizer, entree each and shared dessert) and $5 off a bottle of wine. It was a lovely treat.
For my birthday, he got me Leonard Cohen tickets for his November concert and a fabulous bicycle purse. It's made by a company called po campo and it's designed to fit on the rack of a bike.
We had a great holiday weekend. Headed out to Banff on Saturday and set up our campsite. Barbequed steak and did foil packets of baby potatoes. Also did up a pear gorgonzola salad and yummy s'mores (using chocolate with salted toffee). And, it didn't snow over night. The fire was nice and since we don't have a balcony at home to barbeque, it was a special treat.
On Sunday we headed out to Ha Ling Peak. It's rated as an easy scramble/difficult hike. I was actually expecting to take a bit longer but we were right on the four hour mark. There were lots of people on the trail and would recommend it to anyone wanting to try their first scramble.
Monday I finished my final assignments for healthcare professionalism (yippee I'm not a student for two weeks!). We then headed out to Calaway Park to play on the roller coaster. I didn't feel so well after but it was worth it. So much fun.
On Saturday we have a refresher bicycle course. And Sunday is the Lilac festival.
Rainy for the past few days.
Have a great day!
I had a very nice birthday yesterday. We had Crave cupcakes at work and Jerry took me out to dinner. Milestones has a Wednesday night date night menu of $50 for dinner for two (shared appetizer, entree each and shared dessert) and $5 off a bottle of wine. It was a lovely treat.
For my birthday, he got me Leonard Cohen tickets for his November concert and a fabulous bicycle purse. It's made by a company called po campo and it's designed to fit on the rack of a bike.
We had a great holiday weekend. Headed out to Banff on Saturday and set up our campsite. Barbequed steak and did foil packets of baby potatoes. Also did up a pear gorgonzola salad and yummy s'mores (using chocolate with salted toffee). And, it didn't snow over night. The fire was nice and since we don't have a balcony at home to barbeque, it was a special treat.
On Sunday we headed out to Ha Ling Peak. It's rated as an easy scramble/difficult hike. I was actually expecting to take a bit longer but we were right on the four hour mark. There were lots of people on the trail and would recommend it to anyone wanting to try their first scramble.
Monday I finished my final assignments for healthcare professionalism (yippee I'm not a student for two weeks!). We then headed out to Calaway Park to play on the roller coaster. I didn't feel so well after but it was worth it. So much fun.
On Saturday we have a refresher bicycle course. And Sunday is the Lilac festival.
Rainy for the past few days.
Have a great day!
Ha Ling Peak photos
Hello Everyone,
Here are my photos from Ha Ling peak, first scramble of the year. 4 hours round trip, including a nice rest at the top.
Here are my photos from Ha Ling peak, first scramble of the year. 4 hours round trip, including a nice rest at the top.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Phone Call Worries
Hello Everyone,
Here is an example of an increasing type of phone call at work. Names have been changed for stupidity.
Caller - Hi! My name is Mary Jones and my son Freddy works for you. He is buying a trailer/house/vehicle and needs his last two pay stubs faxed to our home.
Me - I'm sorry, I need to speak with Freddy for this type of request.
Caller - Oh, he's right here on the portch. I'll go get him.
Muffle, noise, etc
Caller 2 - Hello, I'm Freddy. I'm buying...
Me - (Confirms the request)
Background noise, confirming everything with his mom.
The End.
And these are people running multi-million dollar equipment.
And these are people who will be taking care of me in the old folk's home.
We're doomed...
Here is an example of an increasing type of phone call at work. Names have been changed for stupidity.
Caller - Hi! My name is Mary Jones and my son Freddy works for you. He is buying a trailer/house/vehicle and needs his last two pay stubs faxed to our home.
Me - I'm sorry, I need to speak with Freddy for this type of request.
Caller - Oh, he's right here on the portch. I'll go get him.
Muffle, noise, etc
Caller 2 - Hello, I'm Freddy. I'm buying...
Me - (Confirms the request)
Background noise, confirming everything with his mom.
The End.
And these are people running multi-million dollar equipment.
And these are people who will be taking care of me in the old folk's home.
We're doomed...
Thursday, May 03, 2012
Stupid Eye Lid
Hello Everyone,
I got a stye on Sunday and I'm still recovering. It was mostly red and itchy until yesterday morning. When I woke up, the whole eye lid was swollen so I went to the optometrist to make sure it wasn't anything serious. He confirmed my eye was fine but that I needed to go to the doctor asap for the infection.
So, I checked out a new clinic near our apartment. They were very nice, accepting new patients and also handle walk-ins. My family doctor stopped working at my old place a few years ago so I think I'll switch to this new clinic.
Now I'm on penicillin for the next week.
My medical terminology midterm went really well. I have my final booked for the 15th so hopefully I'll have both classes done before the long weekend. That way I can relax for the rest of May before I take my final class of before the semester start. Jerry and I went to an orientation (designed for spouses & parents - the "support network" of the students) last week and was able to see where most of my classes will be held.
Tonight Mike goes to the vet for his check-up and vaccines. I carry him in a reusable bag rather than a cat carrier because he likes to stick his head out and see what's going on.
I was at the comic book expo on the weekend and it was crazy. The fire marshalls shut it down for a while because the organizers weren't tracking numbers. When I left to visit the craft show, I was told it would be over 2 hours before I would be allowed back in (because of the lines). I had a good time though since I had no schedule to keep. Jerry dressed up as an Andorian (Star Trek) and I had a Dr. Who print dress. I'll post some photos soon.
Taking my emergency first aid on Saturday. I accidently let my Standard First Aid lapse but I didn't have the desire to use up my whole weekend with a two day course.
Have a great day!
I got a stye on Sunday and I'm still recovering. It was mostly red and itchy until yesterday morning. When I woke up, the whole eye lid was swollen so I went to the optometrist to make sure it wasn't anything serious. He confirmed my eye was fine but that I needed to go to the doctor asap for the infection.
So, I checked out a new clinic near our apartment. They were very nice, accepting new patients and also handle walk-ins. My family doctor stopped working at my old place a few years ago so I think I'll switch to this new clinic.
Now I'm on penicillin for the next week.
My medical terminology midterm went really well. I have my final booked for the 15th so hopefully I'll have both classes done before the long weekend. That way I can relax for the rest of May before I take my final class of before the semester start. Jerry and I went to an orientation (designed for spouses & parents - the "support network" of the students) last week and was able to see where most of my classes will be held.
Tonight Mike goes to the vet for his check-up and vaccines. I carry him in a reusable bag rather than a cat carrier because he likes to stick his head out and see what's going on.
I was at the comic book expo on the weekend and it was crazy. The fire marshalls shut it down for a while because the organizers weren't tracking numbers. When I left to visit the craft show, I was told it would be over 2 hours before I would be allowed back in (because of the lines). I had a good time though since I had no schedule to keep. Jerry dressed up as an Andorian (Star Trek) and I had a Dr. Who print dress. I'll post some photos soon.
Taking my emergency first aid on Saturday. I accidently let my Standard First Aid lapse but I didn't have the desire to use up my whole weekend with a two day course.
Have a great day!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
True Blood
Hello Everyone,
Stupid show
So, I picked up season 1 of True Blood because I had heard lots about it and I was curious. I knew about the books years ago but hadn't gotten around to checking them out.
We watched the first episode and right at the climax, it ended. So we had to watch the second episode. Same thing happened again. Had to go to bed because it was late.
Thought about that stupid show all the next day.
So we watched the next episode last night.
I put a limit that I can only watch one episode a day.
And yes, the series is quite fascinating. Definitely not for younger eyes and would even hesitate about some adults watching it. Very sexual and graphic. Unusual characters and some neat twists on the whole vampire thing. It's a bit slow right now because we're being introduced to all the characters but so far I'm impressed.
At least the vampires don't sparkle.
Have a good day!
Stupid show
So, I picked up season 1 of True Blood because I had heard lots about it and I was curious. I knew about the books years ago but hadn't gotten around to checking them out.
We watched the first episode and right at the climax, it ended. So we had to watch the second episode. Same thing happened again. Had to go to bed because it was late.
Thought about that stupid show all the next day.
So we watched the next episode last night.
I put a limit that I can only watch one episode a day.
And yes, the series is quite fascinating. Definitely not for younger eyes and would even hesitate about some adults watching it. Very sexual and graphic. Unusual characters and some neat twists on the whole vampire thing. It's a bit slow right now because we're being introduced to all the characters but so far I'm impressed.
At least the vampires don't sparkle.
Have a good day!
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Long Days
Hello Everyone,
I'll be very glad in a couple weeks when this election is over. It's made for some long days as I'm helping our candidate manage the constituent database (basically, when a politician knocks at your door, they record your reaction, support, lawn signs etc). I then scan this data into the system. The election is on the 23rd and the results should be interesting.
Took the bus to Lethbridge for Easter and it was very relaxing. Came back Saturday night. On Sunday we went to church and then I tackled Mike's room. The storage unit is now set up to have 2 banker boxes on the bottom, 2 large Ikea boxes in the middle, miscellaneous sized boxes in the next shelf and then other stuff on the top. On my last Ikea trip, they had boxes for 80% off so I went crazy. Now, the Ikea boxes are labelled, items sorted etc. We have 5 banker boxes to go through and then our miscellanous sized boxes. It really made a difference and already the room is more useable.
School courses going well. The Professionalism in Healthcare pisses me off because the material should be stuff people already know (don't steal, show up for work on time, dress appropriately etc) but it's a required course. The Medical Terminology is a lot of work but I've been busy making flash cards to memorize the patterns.
Have a good day!
I'll be very glad in a couple weeks when this election is over. It's made for some long days as I'm helping our candidate manage the constituent database (basically, when a politician knocks at your door, they record your reaction, support, lawn signs etc). I then scan this data into the system. The election is on the 23rd and the results should be interesting.
Took the bus to Lethbridge for Easter and it was very relaxing. Came back Saturday night. On Sunday we went to church and then I tackled Mike's room. The storage unit is now set up to have 2 banker boxes on the bottom, 2 large Ikea boxes in the middle, miscellaneous sized boxes in the next shelf and then other stuff on the top. On my last Ikea trip, they had boxes for 80% off so I went crazy. Now, the Ikea boxes are labelled, items sorted etc. We have 5 banker boxes to go through and then our miscellanous sized boxes. It really made a difference and already the room is more useable.
School courses going well. The Professionalism in Healthcare pisses me off because the material should be stuff people already know (don't steal, show up for work on time, dress appropriately etc) but it's a required course. The Medical Terminology is a lot of work but I've been busy making flash cards to memorize the patterns.
Have a good day!
Monday, March 26, 2012
Feeling' Old
Hello Everyone,
Christine turned 16 today. And got her driver's license. I'm super proud of her and I think she's become an amazing young lady.
... and I feel old.
Christine turned 16 today. And got her driver's license. I'm super proud of her and I think she's become an amazing young lady.
... and I feel old.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Reality check of Calgary real estate
Hello Everyone,
So the City is doing a major overhaul of a neighbourhood east of the downtown main core called East Village. For years it was a haven for drug addicts, crime etc. but now it's mostly cleaned up and they've got major development going on.
This is going to be a great neighbourhood and we thought it would be a good place to invest in our first home.
And there is a really great condo being built.
Just for people like us. Bike lockers, a bike wash, across the street from the pathway system, rooftop patio, cafe downstairs. I looked at floorplans and got really excited.
Then I saw the prices.
And the prices were cheaper than the other condos in the area.
1 bedroom condos start at $227,900
1 bedroom + den condos start at $273,900
2 bedroom condos start at $327,900
And the square footage with these starting prices are less than 600. But, you get a balcony.
So now I'm sad.
Because I don't want to pay $300,000 for a 1 bedroom + den, under 600 square feet. Oh, and $150,000 to the bank in interest. And some crazy $500+ condo fees.
Even though it looked really great.
When I looked at the fine print, you need $5,000 up front. Then you have 10 days to secure a mortgage. And within the 10 days put down 15%. That's another $15,000 (in my imaginary condo). But since it isn't built yet, you have another year or two before you have to pay for the rest.
It's very discouraging.
But Jerry and I have talked and we've put off home ownership for another two years. By then he'll be full-time, I'll be done school and have my career established. And that's two years of savings we can put toward a down payment.
For now, our apartment is pretty great :-)
So the City is doing a major overhaul of a neighbourhood east of the downtown main core called East Village. For years it was a haven for drug addicts, crime etc. but now it's mostly cleaned up and they've got major development going on.
This is going to be a great neighbourhood and we thought it would be a good place to invest in our first home.
And there is a really great condo being built.
Just for people like us. Bike lockers, a bike wash, across the street from the pathway system, rooftop patio, cafe downstairs. I looked at floorplans and got really excited.
Then I saw the prices.
And the prices were cheaper than the other condos in the area.
1 bedroom condos start at $227,900
1 bedroom + den condos start at $273,900
2 bedroom condos start at $327,900
And the square footage with these starting prices are less than 600. But, you get a balcony.
So now I'm sad.
Because I don't want to pay $300,000 for a 1 bedroom + den, under 600 square feet. Oh, and $150,000 to the bank in interest. And some crazy $500+ condo fees.
Even though it looked really great.
When I looked at the fine print, you need $5,000 up front. Then you have 10 days to secure a mortgage. And within the 10 days put down 15%. That's another $15,000 (in my imaginary condo). But since it isn't built yet, you have another year or two before you have to pay for the rest.
It's very discouraging.
But Jerry and I have talked and we've put off home ownership for another two years. By then he'll be full-time, I'll be done school and have my career established. And that's two years of savings we can put toward a down payment.
For now, our apartment is pretty great :-)
funny raffle downstairs
Hello Everyone,
There is a raffle going on in the lobby of our building in support of the Cancer Society (for one of their bike rides).
The prize: a stationary bike
The reward for buying a ticket: a donut
Anyone else find this amusing?
There is a raffle going on in the lobby of our building in support of the Cancer Society (for one of their bike rides).
The prize: a stationary bike
The reward for buying a ticket: a donut
Anyone else find this amusing?
Monday, March 12, 2012
Sore Thumb
Hello Everyone,
We had a nice weekend at Castle. It was too warm & rainy on Saturday to ski so we went into Pincher Creek to browse around. On Sunday, it was a bit cooler and there was some snowfall late morning. Jerry went off snowboarding and I went skiing.
Had three really good runs and I did my first blue (intermediate) run on skis. After that, my last two runs were not so good. I had two big falls that made me lose a ski and it took a bit to get my foot locked back in. The second time was on a steep part of the hill and I ended up injuring my thumb. I was on the incline and using my pole for balance when the ski slipped and I jammed my thumb on the pole. From what I read, I think I have a minor sprain, aka skier's thumb. It's achy and it's difficult to flip papers (which is part of my work task today). I'll take an ibuprofin when I get home and maybe ice it if it still hurts later but there's not much I can do anyways.
Have a good day!
We had a nice weekend at Castle. It was too warm & rainy on Saturday to ski so we went into Pincher Creek to browse around. On Sunday, it was a bit cooler and there was some snowfall late morning. Jerry went off snowboarding and I went skiing.
Had three really good runs and I did my first blue (intermediate) run on skis. After that, my last two runs were not so good. I had two big falls that made me lose a ski and it took a bit to get my foot locked back in. The second time was on a steep part of the hill and I ended up injuring my thumb. I was on the incline and using my pole for balance when the ski slipped and I jammed my thumb on the pole. From what I read, I think I have a minor sprain, aka skier's thumb. It's achy and it's difficult to flip papers (which is part of my work task today). I'll take an ibuprofin when I get home and maybe ice it if it still hurts later but there's not much I can do anyways.
Have a good day!
Friday, March 09, 2012
Student Again
Hello Everyone,
After taking a month off from school, I've registered in two classes. I wanted to see how well I can balance two courses, work and life. They are Medical Terminology 1 and Healthcare Professionalism. I have until mid-June to finish them and I'm looking forward to the material. I was starting to get a bit stir-crazy at home because I didn't have a set routine.
The snow has broke and it's been a lovely few days. We're up to a crazy 15C and it was nice to walk outside without a jacket at lunch. Jerry's birthday is on Saturday so we're off to Castle tonight for the weekend. It's hard to say what snow conditions will be like but I suspected it's going to be warm slushy stuff. I'll be skiing again (on rentals) so as long as it doesn't ice over, it'll be fine. Jerry's a bit more snow fussy so we'll probably not do runs together as he'll need to head further up the hill. That's fine with me though as I'm a bit self-consious of my lesser skiing abilities (vs snowboarding). I was deemed a wonderful wife because for an early present I gave him an avalance transponder. It's needed on certain runs and he used to have to rent one. I also gave him the warning that if he ever had the opportunity to use it, I'd kill him if the avalance didn't.
I also had boudoir photos taken. I bought a Groupon for half-off that included two 4x6 photos and it was a lot of fun. I think Jerry will like them. I had my make-up and hair done, tried out false eye lashes and felt very glamourous. The photographer was great and I lost track of time. For anyone curious, I think I paid $185 for the 1 hour photoshoot and $65 for the hair/make-up. I supplied the false eyelashes. It was funny because afterward, I put on my glasses and they brushed the lenses when I blinked. I've wanted to have some done for years but reputable boudoir photographers are expensive. I was really happy with my deal. The pictures looked very classy and I ordered an extra one for me to show my handsome nursing home attendent when I'm old and grey.
Have a great day!
After taking a month off from school, I've registered in two classes. I wanted to see how well I can balance two courses, work and life. They are Medical Terminology 1 and Healthcare Professionalism. I have until mid-June to finish them and I'm looking forward to the material. I was starting to get a bit stir-crazy at home because I didn't have a set routine.
The snow has broke and it's been a lovely few days. We're up to a crazy 15C and it was nice to walk outside without a jacket at lunch. Jerry's birthday is on Saturday so we're off to Castle tonight for the weekend. It's hard to say what snow conditions will be like but I suspected it's going to be warm slushy stuff. I'll be skiing again (on rentals) so as long as it doesn't ice over, it'll be fine. Jerry's a bit more snow fussy so we'll probably not do runs together as he'll need to head further up the hill. That's fine with me though as I'm a bit self-consious of my lesser skiing abilities (vs snowboarding). I was deemed a wonderful wife because for an early present I gave him an avalance transponder. It's needed on certain runs and he used to have to rent one. I also gave him the warning that if he ever had the opportunity to use it, I'd kill him if the avalance didn't.
I also had boudoir photos taken. I bought a Groupon for half-off that included two 4x6 photos and it was a lot of fun. I think Jerry will like them. I had my make-up and hair done, tried out false eye lashes and felt very glamourous. The photographer was great and I lost track of time. For anyone curious, I think I paid $185 for the 1 hour photoshoot and $65 for the hair/make-up. I supplied the false eyelashes. It was funny because afterward, I put on my glasses and they brushed the lenses when I blinked. I've wanted to have some done for years but reputable boudoir photographers are expensive. I was really happy with my deal. The pictures looked very classy and I ordered an extra one for me to show my handsome nursing home attendent when I'm old and grey.
Have a great day!
Monday, February 27, 2012
Winter is back
Hello Everyone,
We've had a mild winter so far so it was rather refreshing that it came back with some white on the weekend. Jerry had a great time playing in powder at Castle Mountain and I relaxed at home with my to-do list.
Photos of the Phoenix trip are on Facebook.
Have a great day!
We've had a mild winter so far so it was rather refreshing that it came back with some white on the weekend. Jerry had a great time playing in powder at Castle Mountain and I relaxed at home with my to-do list.
Photos of the Phoenix trip are on Facebook.
Have a great day!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
A Nice Valentine's Day
Hello Everyone,
This year, I took the advice of the internet and told Jerry what I wanted for Valentine's Day. I was specific about the meal and how everything should look. And he still made it extra special.
I wanted flowers. Nothing special. Something from the grocery store because florists charge a lot of money for a bouquet on Valentine's Day. So, he went to the grocery store and found me purple orchids. He said he saw them and thought they were perfect. He had no idea that I love orchids. And then he saw some yellow chrysanthemums and remembered I often buy them because they last a long time (2-4 weeks). And he thought they would look nice together. Bless his heart, I wouldn't have put the two together but they actually look nice and he split them into 3 small vases to spread around the apartment.
Next, I wanted chilled red wine. I was happy with Co-Op brand (drinkable and cheap - I didn't want a lot of money spent because of our trip) but he remembered the Chianti we had at an Italian restaurant a couple weeks that I liked. It was a Ruffino and it's a nice all purpose red wine.
And I wanted cheese fondue. Which was delicious. And he also did an oil & meat fondue too. Seasoned pork with tempura batter and homemade meatballs (he was happy to use the meat grinder attachment for the KitchenAid).
For dessert, I wanted something chocolate. So he made chocolate fondue and picked up a Chinese pound cake/jelly roll cake. Very delicious.
And he set the table nice and there were candles and it was all very delicious.
We were both very full after dinner so we went on an evening stroll in the snow. I am a very lucky lady.
Have a good day!
This year, I took the advice of the internet and told Jerry what I wanted for Valentine's Day. I was specific about the meal and how everything should look. And he still made it extra special.
I wanted flowers. Nothing special. Something from the grocery store because florists charge a lot of money for a bouquet on Valentine's Day. So, he went to the grocery store and found me purple orchids. He said he saw them and thought they were perfect. He had no idea that I love orchids. And then he saw some yellow chrysanthemums and remembered I often buy them because they last a long time (2-4 weeks). And he thought they would look nice together. Bless his heart, I wouldn't have put the two together but they actually look nice and he split them into 3 small vases to spread around the apartment.
Next, I wanted chilled red wine. I was happy with Co-Op brand (drinkable and cheap - I didn't want a lot of money spent because of our trip) but he remembered the Chianti we had at an Italian restaurant a couple weeks that I liked. It was a Ruffino and it's a nice all purpose red wine.
And I wanted cheese fondue. Which was delicious. And he also did an oil & meat fondue too. Seasoned pork with tempura batter and homemade meatballs (he was happy to use the meat grinder attachment for the KitchenAid).
For dessert, I wanted something chocolate. So he made chocolate fondue and picked up a Chinese pound cake/jelly roll cake. Very delicious.
And he set the table nice and there were candles and it was all very delicious.
We were both very full after dinner so we went on an evening stroll in the snow. I am a very lucky lady.
Have a good day!
Monday, February 13, 2012
Blender Fiasco
Hello Everyone,
So Saturday turned out more stressful than anticipated. It started out really great. We had lunch in Kensington, stopped in at a couple stores, ate mini Crave cupcakes and then went to The Bay to compare blenders. I had narrowed the choice to two - a Krups and a Breville. Jerry wanted to see both before we got the last thing we wanted from our registry.
They had the Breville but not the Krups and there was only one Bay in Calgary that had it. So, we waited around for the bus and headed up to North Hill. They had both. It was getting to closing time so I found a sales associate and told her I wanted the Breville (I know, which was at the first place but it meant we got to really look at both). There was one left in the store - the floor model. We were told there would be an additional 10% discount and she went to find the box. No box. And they won't sell it to us. To get home from the mall, we caught the bus to the train, and then from the train it was a half hour walk home.
So yesterday while Jerry was tidying the house, I walked downtown, bought the stupid blender, bungee corded it to my pull cart and hauled it up the hill.
But it is quiet and makes yummy watermelon slushes.
Have a good day!
So Saturday turned out more stressful than anticipated. It started out really great. We had lunch in Kensington, stopped in at a couple stores, ate mini Crave cupcakes and then went to The Bay to compare blenders. I had narrowed the choice to two - a Krups and a Breville. Jerry wanted to see both before we got the last thing we wanted from our registry.
They had the Breville but not the Krups and there was only one Bay in Calgary that had it. So, we waited around for the bus and headed up to North Hill. They had both. It was getting to closing time so I found a sales associate and told her I wanted the Breville (I know, which was at the first place but it meant we got to really look at both). There was one left in the store - the floor model. We were told there would be an additional 10% discount and she went to find the box. No box. And they won't sell it to us. To get home from the mall, we caught the bus to the train, and then from the train it was a half hour walk home.
So yesterday while Jerry was tidying the house, I walked downtown, bought the stupid blender, bungee corded it to my pull cart and hauled it up the hill.
But it is quiet and makes yummy watermelon slushes.
Have a good day!
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Relaxing Saturday Morning
Hello Everyone,
No plans for the day. We slept in until 9. The coffee is lovely. Mike & Whiskers had their showers. And I'm feeling lazy.
I think we'll treat ourselves to lunch in Kensington and then do stuff around the apartment.
Life is good.
Have a great day!
No plans for the day. We slept in until 9. The coffee is lovely. Mike & Whiskers had their showers. And I'm feeling lazy.
I think we'll treat ourselves to lunch in Kensington and then do stuff around the apartment.
Life is good.
Have a great day!
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
new cell phone
Hello Everyone,
I've joined the 21st century and now have a smart phone. It's a Samsung Galaxy S Vibrant and it's with Virgin. I've been with Rogers for over a dozen years now and I haven't been happy with their phone prices or their plans. So, I'm giving them a shot.
So far, I've been able to make a phone call (by fumbling on the screen until I saw a green phone) to Jerry and was able to add him to my contacts. This will be a big transition for me as I didn't use the features on my old phone and this is my first touch screen phone.
The new phone number is 403-827-7179.
I think her name is Sammy.
Have a good day!
I've joined the 21st century and now have a smart phone. It's a Samsung Galaxy S Vibrant and it's with Virgin. I've been with Rogers for over a dozen years now and I haven't been happy with their phone prices or their plans. So, I'm giving them a shot.
So far, I've been able to make a phone call (by fumbling on the screen until I saw a green phone) to Jerry and was able to add him to my contacts. This will be a big transition for me as I didn't use the features on my old phone and this is my first touch screen phone.
The new phone number is 403-827-7179.
I think her name is Sammy.
Have a good day!
Friday, February 03, 2012
Surprisingly yummy recipe
Hello Everyone,
On my week off, I ended up watching part of Rachael Ray's show. The recipe sounded easy and we tried it last night. We did a couple substitutes - no parsnip, napa cabbage instead of savoy, apple juice instead of cider and steak spice rather than the seasoning. I used super grainy mustard, which I prefer because the blended stuff is too vinegary. It turned out very tasty. Too bad so many of our friends don't eat pork. It's also very cheap to make.
Roast Pork Tenderloins with Roasted Carrot, Parsnip, Potato and Warm Apple and Savoy Cabbage Slaw
This perfect pork dinner with roasted veggies and sweet and sour cabbage slaw is a winning winter meal.
by Rachael Ray | on 01/23/12
Ingredients
2 pork tenderloin fillets, trimmed of silver skin
Kosher salt and pepper
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
1 teaspoon granulated onion
1/2 cup grainy Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons fennel seed
3 carrots, sliced on an angle
2 parsnips, sliced on an angle
1 large Russet potato, scrubbed well, skin left on, thinly sliced
About 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), to coat
3 tablespoons butter
2 Honeycrisp apples, peeled and chopped
1 small head of Savoy cabbage, cored, quartered and thinly sliced
1/2 cup apple cider
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
Serves 4
Preparation
Pre-heat the oven to 400°F.
Season the pork liberally with salt and pepper, sprinkle evenly with granulated onion and garlic, and slather each tenderloin with mustard. Sprinkle the fennel seed over top.
On a rimmed baking sheet or in a shallow roasting pan, toss the carrots, parsnips and potato with EVOO to coat, then season with salt and pepper. Push the veggies off to each side of the pan and set the tenderloins down in the middle. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 145°F. Let the meat stand for 10 minutes before slicing.
For the slaw, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add the apples and sauté to light golden, 5 minutes. Wilt in the cabbage in handfuls; season with salt and pepper. When the cabbage has wilted into the pan, douse with the cider, vinegar and sugar and cook for 5 minutes more at a simmer.
Serve the sliced pork with the roasted carrots and parsnips, and the slaw alongside.
On my week off, I ended up watching part of Rachael Ray's show. The recipe sounded easy and we tried it last night. We did a couple substitutes - no parsnip, napa cabbage instead of savoy, apple juice instead of cider and steak spice rather than the seasoning. I used super grainy mustard, which I prefer because the blended stuff is too vinegary. It turned out very tasty. Too bad so many of our friends don't eat pork. It's also very cheap to make.
Roast Pork Tenderloins with Roasted Carrot, Parsnip, Potato and Warm Apple and Savoy Cabbage Slaw
This perfect pork dinner with roasted veggies and sweet and sour cabbage slaw is a winning winter meal.
by Rachael Ray | on 01/23/12
Ingredients
2 pork tenderloin fillets, trimmed of silver skin
Kosher salt and pepper
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
1 teaspoon granulated onion
1/2 cup grainy Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons fennel seed
3 carrots, sliced on an angle
2 parsnips, sliced on an angle
1 large Russet potato, scrubbed well, skin left on, thinly sliced
About 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), to coat
3 tablespoons butter
2 Honeycrisp apples, peeled and chopped
1 small head of Savoy cabbage, cored, quartered and thinly sliced
1/2 cup apple cider
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
Serves 4
Preparation
Pre-heat the oven to 400°F.
Season the pork liberally with salt and pepper, sprinkle evenly with granulated onion and garlic, and slather each tenderloin with mustard. Sprinkle the fennel seed over top.
On a rimmed baking sheet or in a shallow roasting pan, toss the carrots, parsnips and potato with EVOO to coat, then season with salt and pepper. Push the veggies off to each side of the pan and set the tenderloins down in the middle. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 145°F. Let the meat stand for 10 minutes before slicing.
For the slaw, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add the apples and sauté to light golden, 5 minutes. Wilt in the cabbage in handfuls; season with salt and pepper. When the cabbage has wilted into the pan, douse with the cider, vinegar and sugar and cook for 5 minutes more at a simmer.
Serve the sliced pork with the roasted carrots and parsnips, and the slaw alongside.
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