Serious about safety? Allow one free checked bag and stop carry on that doesn't fit under the seat.

Serious about safety? Allow one free checked bag and stop carry on that doesn't fit under the seat.

Don't want to "give away" that sweet, sweet check bag premium? Sky bridge check all free carry on. Canadian airlines are very poor with their safety orientation but why bother improving - most people don't pay attention to the orientation or the attendants if there is an emergency. Make it easy, nothing in the overhead bin other than jackets. People ignore the part about take care of yourself then dependants under your care. Why would they leave their carry on if they can reach them?
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/evacuation-airline-transport-canada-baggage-1.4762418

Bennie's adventure today - hey, this vent is stuck to me!

Bennie's adventure today - hey, this vent is stuck to me!

Bennie likes to sleep on the air vent because it's very cool. His tag slipped between the slats so when he got up, the grill did as well. Quickly scooped him up and detached the grill. Clearly didn't bother him because here he is sleeping on it again. Dad donated a handkerchief to cover the vent cover. This is an important time for him to get experiences and for us to show our trustworthiness to him. He's wearing a loose fit quick release collar. All our dogs do in case they go walkabout.

We're also doing some click training. This is the earliest I've ever had any expectations of starting training other than eating in their kennel. So far he's sitting, being tempted into lying down and, of course, when he runs over it's a super big deal. Treats for running over when distracted. Cairns are smarties.

And my voice has gotten unnaturally high;)

There may be peace in our time

There may be peace in our time

Just prior to this Bennie ran and launched at Milo who was enjoying the shade. Milo has moved over by the fence and Bennie is grooming the only grassy spot he has in the back yard.

I didn't realize how carefully Milo moves until we got Bennie. Age gets us all.

Visited with my mom's best friend and got some yard ideas.

Visited with my mom's best friend and got some yard ideas.

She has an amazing garden and we got some ideas for our place for next year. Hostas and gladioli will be added as perennial plants that provide a lot of ground cover. We need a lot of hostas so we're going to try growing from seed. Collecting pods this fall and planting inside this spring. We'll move them outside around monsoon season (June). I'd like to focus on the giant ones, maybe we'll ask our neighbours for some seeds as well as they have some beauties. Fred thought he was allergic to gladioda flowers but it seems not so we may add some to our front bed along with the pretty shorter Asian day lilies I saw on a corner a few weeks ago.

Milo is 16 today.

Milo is 16 today.

We'll go for a walk but with the heat and air quality will keep it short. He's decided breakfast isn't for him right now so I'll feed him more in the evening.

No toys, just water bowl. Shortly after this photo he knocked out over.It's hot.

No toys, just water bowl. Shortly after this photo he knocked out over. It's hot.

People I know who don't "steal" treats usually have dietary restrictions. This is a human thing.

People I know who don't "steal" treats usually have dietary restrictions. This is a human thing.

It's amazing how much difference it makes to have fruit cut up in the fridge. And get thinner versions of cookies and mini chocolate bars so they can be part of your regular diet.
http://www.weightymatters.ca/2018/07/no-parents-your-children-arent-stealing.html

I'm not sleeping in my kennel during the day. But I'll leave my foot in if it makes you stop moving me while I'm trying to sleep... or maybe my tail.

I'm not sleeping in my kennel during the day. But I'll leave my foot in if it makes you stop moving me while I'm trying to sleep... or maybe my tail.

Preorder the Asus ZenFone 5Z

Preorder the Asus ZenFone 5Z
Okay, so one of the lesser known brands for smartphones is Asus. Chances are if you're an enthusiast in the PC realm, you may have a few items around your desk that are by Asus; but you may not know their phones. We've reviewed a few over the years (I have ...
http://www.androidcoliseum.com/2018/07/preorder-asus-zenfone-5z.html

Oh the contortions needed to prop up the idea that capitalism is merit based.

Oh the contortions needed to prop up the idea that capitalism is merit based.

We pay for stuff we want because we had good paying jobs that allowed us to save to maintain our lifestyle after retirement. That guy voting for Trump should be asking why his employer isn't paying him more. Efficient goods are cheaper than inefficient (locally produced) goods and he still can't afford them - but the company owners - super rich! Let the US devolve into a Russian style economy that has no middle class. They have inefficient production and are living hand to mouth. I guess it's worth it as long as you can oppress others.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/economic-efficiency-backlash-1.4762498

Oh the contortions needed to prop up the idea that capitalism is merit based.

Oh the contortions needed to prop up the idea that capitalism is merit based.

We pay for stuff we want because we had good paying jobs that allowed us to save to maintain our lifestyle after retirement. That guy voting for Trump should be asking why his employer isn't paying him more. Efficient goods are cheaper than inefficient (locally produced) goods and he still can't afford them - but the company owners - super rich! Let the US devolve into a Russian style economy that has no middle class. They have inefficient production and are living hand to mouth. I guess it's worth it as long as you can oppress others.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/economic-efficiency-backlash-1.4762498

There are rumours puppies sleep a lot.

There are rumours puppies sleep a lot.

Maybe tomorrow?

Welcome Bennie!

Welcome Bennie!

Milo's last moments of peace as we're off to pick up Bennie!

Milo's last moments of peace as we're off to pick up Bennie!

Why gun violence continues..."They never stop killing each other," Who is they? It's WE

Why gun violence continues..."They never stop killing each other," Who is they? It's WE


http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/ct-new-orleans-shooting-20180729-story.html

Loblaws doing the right thing by implementing 2 factor.

Loblaws doing the right thing by implementing 2 factor.

The new points system must be a real boon to the struggling. Points are maximized for routine purchases, Joe Fresh and Shoppers Drug Mart bonuses. They are like cash - no restrictions - so they should be securable like cash/interac.

I'm really thinking of getting one of those physical keys that will work with my phone, tablet, 'puter.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/aeoplan-pc-optimum-points-theft-1.4764484

Loblaws doing the right thing by implementing 2 factor.

Loblaws doing the right thing by implementing 2 factor.

The new points system must be a real boon to the struggling. Points are maximized for routine purchases, Joe Fresh and Shoppers Drug Mart bonuses. They are like cash - no restrictions - so they should be securable like cash/interac.

I'm really thinking of getting one of those physical keys that will work with my phone, tablet, 'puter.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/aeoplan-pc-optimum-points-theft-1.4764484

Woot, cooking shows instead of US news. Much more positive.

Woot, cooking shows instead of US news. Much more positive.

Reducing the size of the panels required would be awesome

Reducing the size of the panels required would be awesome

It can be difficult to find roof space. With improvements in batteries this really put renewables within reach of more people.
https://www.nextbigfuture.com/2018/07/breakthrough-could-triple-the-energy-collected-by-solar-to-60-efficiency.html

Reducing the size of the panels required would be awesome

Reducing the size of the panels required would be awesome

It can be difficult to find roof space. With improvements in batteries this really put renewables within reach of more people.
https://www.nextbigfuture.com/2018/07/breakthrough-could-triple-the-energy-collected-by-solar-to-60-efficiency.html

Worldcon had some problems and @MaryRobinette stepped up to help out. It's what you do when it's an event you value.

Worldcon had some problems and @MaryRobinette stepped up to help out. It's what you do when it's an event you value.
https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1022936178419531776.html#

We'll be going to see this soon... and we're near a big cinema.

We'll be going to see this soon... and we're near a big cinema.

Our local theatre is good for most stuff but for M:I derringdo huge screen is essential. Run, bike, hang off planes Tom!
https://www.tor.com/2018/07/27/if-we-ask-nicely-will-misson-impossible-fallout-director-christopher-mcquarrie-please-make-a-star-war/

Milo tries to eat this stuff while swimming.

Milo tries to eat this stuff while swimming.

I thought it was just disgusting not a health hazard although the local pond is posted for no swimming. It's stocked with fish and aerated but since it's so shallow this stuff can grow like crazy. We'll have to look for more sandy bottomed local lakes.

Also about lakes, we stopped for a mandatory boat check on our way out to the coast. Saskatchewan is unregulated so boats are checked. They're still checking for milfoil weed but the control point are the fresh water mussels that have invaded Manitoba.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/frequently-asked-questions-about-blue-green-algae-1.4763291

Went up to Stave Lake for a paddle / peddle yesterday. Beautiful.

Went up to Stave Lake for a paddle / peddle yesterday. Beautiful.

Milo is very calm in the boat just watching stuff under the surface. The water is very clear.

Went up to Stave Lake for a paddle / peddle yesterday. Beautiful.

Went up to Stave Lake for a paddle / peddle yesterday. Beautiful.

Milo is very calm in the boat just watching stuff under the surface. The water is very clear.

Voting Machine Vendor Changes Story, Admits They Put Remote-Access Software on Machines for Years. The country’s leading manufacturer of voting machines has switched gears and admitted that the company installed remote-access software on…

Voting Machine Vendor Changes Story, Admits They Put Remote-Access Software on Machines for Years. The country’s leading manufacturer of voting machines has switched gears and admitted that the company installed remote-access software on…
http://biblebeltsite.wordpress.com/2018/07/21/voting-machine-vendor-changes-story-admits-they-put-remote-access-software-on-machines-for-years/

Oh no. Testing and treatment even more important.

Oh no. Testing and treatment even more important.
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4762762

The US is sliding back to the 70s where the only way to get reasonable gun control was for lots of black people to legally arm.

The US is sliding back to the 70s where the only way to get reasonable gun control was for lots of black people to legally arm.

Didn't the Black Panthers or some group like that prompt that move but arming with long guns?
https://freethoughtblogs.com/pervertjustice/2018/07/25/fascist-policing-in-pinellas-county/

So subsidies then. Isn't that what the US is always going on about when they criticize other countries fiscal policies?

So subsidies then. Isn't that what the US is always going on about when they criticize other countries fiscal policies?


https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4759479

We're here!

We're here!

Publically owned companies are usually multinational so they can buffer against regional vagaries.

Publically owned companies are usually multinational so they can buffer against regional vagaries.

The countries promoting nationalism are also supporting capitalism. Really unless governments start shutting down foreign ownership, I don't think the equities are really at risk unless there is a synchonus (sp?) world wide collapse.
https://www.moneysense.ca/save/investing/stocks/do-markets-really-care-about-uncertainty/

Publically owned companies are usually multinational so they can buffer against regional vagaries.

Publically owned companies are usually multinational so they can buffer against regional vagaries.

The countries promoting nationalism are also supporting capitalism. Really unless governments start shutting down foreign ownership, I don't think the equities are really at risk unless there is a synchonus (sp?) world wide collapse.
https://www.moneysense.ca/save/investing/stocks/do-markets-really-care-about-uncertainty/

Beautiful day with thunderstorms in the offing I think.

Beautiful day with thunderstorms in the offing I think.

Today one of the chores was to clean the screens in the eavestrough to make sure there is maximum flow. If it still overflows we'll be doing more to prevent the downspouts from plugging.

meant to post earlier

Why Saskatchewan is the land of the living skies.

Why Saskatchewan is the land of the living skies.

While I enjoy the outdoors flies and bugs are zipping inside. Can't wait for the new door so we can install the storm door.

While I enjoy the outdoors flies and bugs are zipping inside. Can't wait for the new door so we can install the storm door.

Every day since we installed the storm door at the front, we've had the door open. We are having perfect (for me) summer weather. Hot from mid-day on, cooling rain in evening.

Most reliable and low maintenance bc there is. Condoms still important for STDs though.

Most reliable and low maintenance bc there is. Condoms still important for STDs though.

Luckily (unluckily?) I haven't had to deal with birth control for decades. First infertile then early menopause. But this was going to be my method of choice as I was not doing well with remembering the pill. Definitely not a cake walk at first. I've had a couple procedures that involve the cervix. For me it isn't a "mild pinch" it's a holy shit ow, ow, ow, ow event. Last time I had taken T3 (I have a reaction to codeine) and it was a toss up between the reaction and the cervical pain.


https://melmagazine.com/a-gentlemans-guide-to-iuds-f4f4975d065d

Week one down. infinite more to go. We spend a lot of time talking about plans.

Week one down. infinite more to go. We spend a lot of time talking about plans.

The thing with retirement, for me, is to have the time to do things I want to do. I had originally planned to volunteer now that I had time. Then I got financially anxious in spite of knowing rationally, the only way we could not have enough money is if the world economy collapsed. Welp there seems to be an effort to do just that through amplifying income inequality. Now I have to also assess if my volunteering would impinge on someone else's ability to earn a needed income. Or should I contract work to keep building income. This is where the talking comes in.

I think I will focus more on volunteering but really restrict to non-profits and things that focus on the wellbeing of others. I would like to get Bennie into pet therapy. He won't be ready for a year but I should be able to start now with training. If that's not a thing in town maybe the SPCA. I could do something with seniors/hospitals since, in Canada, hospitals are not for profit but I'm not that good with people.

Of course it's easy to think this way when the weather is good and it's early days. This winter will tell the tale:)

Week one down. infinite more to go. We spend a lot of time talking about plans.

Week one down. infinite more to go. We spend a lot of time talking about plans.

The thing with retirement, for me, is to have the time to do things I want to do. I had originally planned to volunteer now that I had time. Then I got financially anxious in spite of knowing rationally, the only way we could not have enough money is if the world economy collapsed. Welp there seems to be an effort to do just that through amplifying income inequality. Now I have to also assess if my volunteering would impinge on someone else's ability to earn a needed income. Or should I contract work to keep building income. This is where the talking comes in.

I think I will focus more on volunteering but really restrict to non-profits and things that focus on the wellbeing of others. I would like to get Bennie into pet therapy. He won't be ready for a year but I should be able to start now with training. If that's not a thing in town maybe the SPCA. I could do something with seniors/hospitals since, in Canada, hospitals are not for profit but I'm not that good with people.

Of course it's easy to think this way when the weather is good and it's early days. This winter will tell the tale:)

fascinating

fascinating


https://theintercept.com/2018/07/21/maria-butina-indictment-russia-investigation/

Yet another thunderstorm. This one with hail. Hopefully not hurting crops too much.

Yet another thunderstorm. This one with hail. Hopefully not hurting crops too much.

Hail is accumulating. This is weather we saw regularly in Calgary. Warm days and lightning storms.

The #Porsche Cross Turismo will be the Macan garage mate in spite of no Android Auto! Love the Macan too much to trade in.

The #Porsche Cross Turismo will be the Macan garage mate in spite of no Android Auto! Love the Macan too much to trade in.

We were thinking of the e-sport cayenne but we don't need something that big. Then the e Kona but it's a lot smaller than we thought. Not a fan of how pointy the nose is but it a traditional Porsche look. The phone thing is not that big a deal to me.
https://driving.ca/reviews/road-test/first-drive-porsche-mission-e-cross-turismo-concept

I feel like dancing used to be more of a thing. Is it oldfashioned?

I feel like dancing used to be more of a thing. Is it oldfashioned?

I didn't marry a dancer so mostly I dance in exercise class and sometimes while cleaning. With previous BF we used to go dancing spontaneously like we'd decide to go ski. Different times...for me at least.
https://vimeo.com/275826346

Find someone you trust and let them be the voice of moderation.

Find someone you trust and let them be the voice of moderation.

I used to be a successful investor on my own, picking stocks and mutual funds (I did see a 300% return on my nephew's RESP so I must do something right). Since the turn of the century companies seem to working on quarterly instead of long term gains and traditionally solid stock (GE for example) struggle to adapt. I find it frustrating to say the least. I have the attitude that money in the stock market is there to lose but I also want solid grow so we work with a professional (IG). Otherwise I think I'd keep my money in a sock.
https://www.moneysense.ca/save/investing/how-your-advisor-is-helping-you-avoid-the-big-mistake/

Find someone you trust and let them be the voice of moderation.

Find someone you trust and let them be the voice of moderation.

I used to be a successful investor on my own, picking stocks and mutual funds (I did see a 300% return on my nephew's RESP so I must do something right). Since the turn of the century companies seem to working on quarterly instead of long term gains and traditionally solid stock (GE for example) struggle to adapt. I find it frustrating to say the least. I have the attitude that money in the stock market is there to lose but I also want solid grow so we work with a professional (IG). Otherwise I think I'd keep my money in a sock.
https://www.moneysense.ca/save/investing/how-your-advisor-is-helping-you-avoid-the-big-mistake/

With 3 military bases and Edmonton, Albertans should be aware of the military if not deployment.

With 3 military bases and Edmonton, Albertans should be aware of the military if not deployment.

Hopefully everyone would realize when you increase your likelihood of a violent death if you enlist. I have to admit the last thing I was was aware of was deployment in the middle east and the role in drone targeting. That is more than observer.

Most of the news around our military does concern emergency response. Realistically Canada is a buffer between 2 nuclear powers; we could never rely on the US to defend Canada other than as a by product of defending themselves. If the US did decide to invade, I think a high proportion of Canadians would welcome them (Ontario, rural prairies at least). In any case there's no way our military would be able to repel them; the best we could hope for is a guerrilla war where we poison our environment to decrease our attractiveness.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/dnd-canadians-military-poll-1.4754083

We live in carbon tax land - a more gentle implementation I can't imagine.

We live in carbon tax land - a more gentle implementation I can't imagine.

By sunlighting coal in 2030 the majority of existing plants get to end of life; only 6 plants will be paid out. Owners can actually plant maintenance, repurposing and not expansions. Because everything is metered everyone has the opportunity to lower costs. The carbon tax is included with the high personal exemption and businesses can apply for other exemptions. Money generated will be used for

rebates for Albertans to offset cost increases

renewable energy projects and electricity transition supports

industrial and consumer energy efficiency programs

indigenous climate leadership initiatives

transit and infrastructure projects

We've seen increases in our bills but we've also seen increases in our energy use and are working to reduce them. Easiest would be to move to a smaller home but we would take a big asset hit and can afford to stay where we are and enjoy ourselves.

I suspect if elected UPC would retain the tax since by then it'll have been implemented for years. That's what happened with the GST. But the UPC will use the money to give corporate and religious groups rather than distribute to all taxpayers.
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4753664

Just how conditional is your love?

Just how conditional is your love?
https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1019620622119260160.html

QFT Real clarity around how much a lifestyle costs, and how someone can afford it, is helpful because it completes the picture

QFT Real clarity around how much a lifestyle costs, and how someone can afford it, is helpful because it completes the picture

There's a reason money isn't talked about a lot and that's because people are very judgy about how other people spend theirs. Refinery 29 has had a wide range of earnings, this one just should have been framed more honestly.
https://www.flare.com/news/refinery29-money-diaries-a-week-in-nyc-on-25-an-hour/

QFT Real clarity around how much a lifestyle costs, and how someone can afford it, is helpful because it completes the picture

QFT Real clarity around how much a lifestyle costs, and how someone can afford it, is helpful because it completes the picture

There's a reason money isn't talked about a lot and that's because people are very judgy about how other people spend theirs. Refinery 29 has had a wide range of earnings, this one just should have been framed more honestly.
https://www.flare.com/news/refinery29-money-diaries-a-week-in-nyc-on-25-an-hour/

Why would anyone send a bank draft by FedEx? To another country? Naive?

Why would anyone send a bank draft by FedEx? To another country? Naive?

Naive as in they haven't read the declaration on every transit document about not bringing more than $10K into a country and not realizing that money is taxable in the US even though it's not taxable in Canada.

I am an executor for a will. I fully expect to use a lawyer to ensure everything is properly dispersed and documented. If I were sending money on country it would be by e-interact. Outside country wire transfer. Wire transfers are expensive but definitely the way to go when moving money around. There is some traceability to them unlike bank drafts, which I think expire like cheques`.

That said, if I were the TD Bank I would have a representative on hand for the destruction of the bank drafts then either complete the transfer by wire or hand back cash.
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4749780

Fred was tired of no frosting on the windows. I was tired of the shower caddy. Bathroom update complete.

Fred was tired of no frosting on the windows. I was tired of the shower caddy. Bathroom update complete.

It's amazing what small things can make a difference. I hadn't seen a shower caddy that didn't sit in the corner or hang off the shower head. This on is supposed to be on the door but fits just fine on one of the side panels. Nice sized baskets and sponge hangers! Considerably easier to install than the privacy film.

Fred was tired of no frosting on the windows. I was tired of the shower caddy. Bathroom update complete.

Fred was tired of no frosting on the windows. I was tired of the shower caddy. Bathroom update complete.

It's amazing what small things can make a difference. I hadn't seen a shower caddy that didn't sit in the corner or hang off the shower head. This on is supposed to be on the door but fits just fine on one of the side panels. Nice sized baskets and sponge hangers! Considerably easier to install than the privacy film.

I find it interesting how many budgets in Refinery29 includes parents paying for stuff - even with high earning. And free food.

I find it interesting how many budgets in Refinery29 includes parents paying for stuff - even with high earning. And free food.

Some of the student loan debt and rental costs were astounding as well. I think there was one Canadian piece where the numbers seemed realistic compared to people I work with but then I worked with production people - I think the admin side is paid much less.

I find it interesting how many budgets in Refinery29 includes parents paying for stuff - even with high earning. And free food.

I find it interesting how many budgets in Refinery29 includes parents paying for stuff - even with high earning. And free food.

Some of the student loan debt and rental costs were astounding as well. I think there was one Canadian piece where the numbers seemed realistic compared to people I work with but then I worked with production people - I think the admin side is paid much less.

This is interesting because I know I do much better at analysis work later in the day. That could be the case for this worker.

This is interesting because I know I do much better at analysis work later in the day. That could be the case for this worker.

One of the problems I had with a 7-3 shift is my productive time for writing is 1-4. Luckily I could find tasks that needed to be done that would support the thinking work later. Trying earlier = wheelspinning.
https://www.askamanager.org/2018/07/my-employee-works-late-every-night-but-it-seems-to-be-her-fault.html

After crackdown on steel and aluminum, U.S. to now probe foreign uranium | CBC News

https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/uranium-national-security-1.4751659?cmp=rss

Problems and "lies" about trolling.

Problems and "lies" about trolling.
https://www.theverge.com/2018/7/12/17561768/dont-feed-the-trolls-online-harassment-abuse

CBC had a good overview but I wanted to find out what the questions were in the survey.

CBC had a good overview but I wanted to find out what the questions were in the survey.

Interesting analysis from the article, segments aren't especially tied to income. I think the metrics used are reasonable. Much like happiness, how rich/poor you feel will be dependant on how you feel. Unfortunately, there is so much social pressure (cash back points, sales in your mailbox etc) to be a good consumer that you have to be really comfortable with financial self awareness. And most people aren't.

The social mobility question is always interesting, again because feelings. I was in the "struggling" segment until I got married and could pool income and expenses and the "on the edge" segment for quite a few years after as we worked to find stable jobs and do adult things like buy cars and a home. When we found out we would be child free we moved into the recently comfortable segment.

People have the perception that Boomers had it really easy and to some extent we did. Not just in terms of social services but in the amount of credit purchasing. Job availability was about the same as now and UI benefits were being revised so you didn't work once and get benefits forever by working a few extra weeks. At 20 (1980) I felt I would not be getting anything for CPP yet here I am getting CPP that will buy more than a carton of milk - because of changes to CPP. My student loan payment was $107/month for 7 years. Sounds awesome but I made a whopping $1500/month gross and in that 7 years I didn't get above $1800/mo. It's not numbers, it's percentages.
http://angusreid.org/poverty-in-canada/

First Monday of retirement - use screen protector installation skills on bathroom window.

First Monday of retirement - use screen protector installation skills on bathroom window.

The best thing about being retired is the lack of time constraints. I spent 5 minutes looking for masking tape that I had put down...somewhere. I erased measurement marks when I drew a line crooked in spite of doing several measurement marks. So the project took probably twice as long as it should have but I didn't wreck or damage anything and it's done! I'm sure my ex-coworkers will be surprised to hear I didn't swear once.

Tip - use a wet microfiber cloth instead of spraying water on and use the same cloth for smoothing out air bubbles. And true to screen protector installation keep hands clean and moist.

First Monday of retirement - use screen protector installation skills on bathroom window.

First Monday of retirement - use screen protector installation skills on bathroom window.

The best thing about being retired is the lack of time constraints. I spent 5 minutes looking for masking tape that I had put down...somewhere. I erased measurement marks when I drew a line crooked in spite of doing several measurement marks. So the project took probably twice as long as it should have but I didn't wreck or damage anything and it's done! I'm sure my ex-coworkers will be surprised to hear I didn't swear once.

Tip - use a wet microfiber cloth instead of spraying water on and use the same cloth for smoothing out air bubbles. And true to screen protector installation keep hands clean and moist.

I support minimum wage hikes because minimum wage should lift a full time worker above the poverty line. I'm glad AB ensured the hike stays in the pocket of the earner.

I support minimum wage hikes because minimum wage should lift a full time worker above the poverty line. I'm glad AB ensured the hike stays in the pocket of the earner.

Alberta has the highest personal income tax exemption in the country. Yes, higher earners pay more taxes but we certainly haven't noticed. And with the carbon tax we've focused on what we can do to to decrease our energy use (Save money and the environment? Yes please.) The more people can earn, the less social services need funding because they aren't "topping up" employer deficiencies. Small business taxes were also lowered to offset the wage hikes ensuring they get more direct service/cost.

As pointed out, underemployment remains a problem for workers but there are many education streams available from apprenticeships to less than a year programs to advanced degrees.
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4740923

Don't think "caving" and "making a decision before escalating" are mutually exclusive as there was a lot of escalation right away. ArenaNet, like Reddit, has made very clear they're on the side of very fine people.

Don't think "caving" and "making a decision before escalating" are mutually exclusive as there was a lot of escalation right away. ArenaNet, like Reddit, has made very clear they're on the side of very fine people.

I do hope the developers find other gigs. The problem with social media for gaming developers is they can be targeted and, at some point, are likely to make statements that can be twisted. If I were a dev I would would definitely silo that aspect of my life from everything else.
https://kotaku.com/in-the-wake-of-arenanet-firings-game-studios-rethink-t-1827591298/amp

Fascinating 3 part study about breakfast underway. Will it change how I eat? Nope:)

Fascinating 3 part study about breakfast underway. Will it change how I eat? Nope:)

First up my definition of breakfast - first nutritional intake after long period of sleep. Currently this is in the morning and I (mostly) sleep at night. Same for if I'm working evenings but when I worked nights it was in the late afternoon.

When I was a kid we had eggs and toast. When I became a teen, I skipped (weight control you know 😒). As an adult I've settled on a light carb driven meal like whole wheat toast or oatmeal if it's before 9 am and a snack around 9 - 9:30. Now that I'm retired I would like to incorporate more protien in the morning. I have time to prep that since I wasn't about to snack on jerky at coffee time☕ I think we'll be switching from waffles to tofu scambles.

What do you eat for breakfast? Is there a reason in particular?
http://www.weightymatters.ca/2018/07/does-when-you-eat-affect-your-circadian.html

Retirement lunch last Thursday. Cake is good 😁

Retirement lunch last Thursday. Cake is good 😁

Retirement lunch last Thursday. Cake is good 😁

Retirement lunch last Thursday. Cake is good 😁

Made me think of a former co-worker, who could be very difficult to work with, and I later learned was carrying a very heavy burden indeed.

Made me think of a former co-worker, who could be very difficult to work with, and I later learned was carrying a very heavy burden indeed.
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/07/02/your-money/ask-yourself-this-what-burdens-is-that-other-person-carrying.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_axiosam&stream=top

It's time for USian to stop holding up Canada as a progressive ideal. Our federal structure just doesn't let us shoot ourselves in the foot as badly.

It's time for USian to stop holding up Canada as a progressive ideal. Our federal structure just doesn't let us shoot ourselves in the foot as badly.

Ontario - may seem like it should be progressive - it has Toronto after all. But of all the provinces it seems to me to be the most heavily influenced by US politics. Ford is a white businessman who has never been accountable to the public for his business practices so he can portray them any way he wants. It will be interesting to see if he brings in any government transparency. It also bears the brunt of illegal immigration, which does need to be better dealt with at the Federal level.

If less wealthy USians are temporarily indisposed billionaires then many white Canadians are USians at heart. It's ok to "win" through cheating - that is breaking treaties with indigenous people; bullying is bad but instead of strong human rights that apply to everyone (and are supported through tax dollars) it should be no bullying of certain worthy groups.
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4746748

First day of retirement - or a Saturday - installed a storm door!

First day of retirement - or a Saturday - installed a storm door!

Easy peasy? Well nothing that can't be fixed with some DAP - the other duct tape. The video was 20 minutes. At 2 hours we had it pretty well in place at 4 hours we were finished. Next one will go better. We really like it. Luckily a cold front blew through so it was only around 15C although the wind was annoying.

First day of retirement - or a Saturday - installed a storm door!

First day of retirement - or a Saturday - installed a storm door!

Easy peasy? Well nothing that can't be fixed with some DAP - the other duct tape. The video was 20 minutes. At 2 hours we had it pretty well in place at 4 hours we were finished. Next one will go better. We really like it. Luckily a cold front blew through so it was only around 15C although the wind was annoying.

So active malicious accounts like InfoWars is ok?

So active malicious accounts like InfoWars is ok?
https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4745696

Read the history of why cocaine, opium, alcohol (prohibition supported by the KKK), and pot, were banned.

Read the history of why cocaine, opium, alcohol (prohibition supported by the KKK), and pot, were banned.

https://tonic.vice.com/en_us/article/kzy87z/americas-drug-laws-racism-versus-science

Last day of work.

Last day of work.

A hard choice because I enjoy the people I work with and am leaving them short handed. Unfortunately the reason for that is integral to why I'm not sad. It's been hard working for a company that doesn't recognize Canada is a different country but Mexico is, the Caribbean is, South America is etc. We have mat leave and space must be held for a year with no wage or benefits. Headcount demands the position, Safety, is abandoned rather that filled with by a US colleague for a year.

Oh well no longer my water to carry.

Last hump day! And I feel like wrap up is near completion.

Last hump day! And I feel like wrap up is near completion.

Just small projects that will make things easier for continuity. More the home chores kick in.

Feeling more and more that we dodged a bullet in our home hunt. We may have looked in this community

Feeling more and more that we dodged a bullet in our home hunt. We may have looked in this community

People who should be living in adult only community make is uncomfortable for families. Looks like stratas need to include playground spaces for these horrifying disruptive activities. I, a child free near senior, love seeing kids play outside. Young families was one of the reasons we chose our location and now we get to see grandkids play. Sure there were some clunks - like kids playing with lacrosse balls against our garage door without asking. But some spaces can be really enticing and no harm, no foul.
https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/no-kids-allowed-b-c-community-bans-outdoor-activities-sidewalk-chalk-1.4008411

Very technical diving with unskilled fatigued casualties. Kudos to all planners, logistics and, of course, rescuers.

Very technical diving with unskilled fatigued casualties. Kudos to all planners, logistics and, of course, rescuers.

Coach also did great job of keeping his charges well in the face of challenging conditions.


https://www.cbc.ca/amp/1.4740318

Last Monday of working

Last Monday of working

After this week I fall out of the employment statistics. Lots to do to wrap up. I'm very big on not having a bunch of wtf-ery after I leave a job/position. It's just nicer for incoming person.

Once we decided we weren't moving, small things became more important to fix.

Once we decided we weren't moving, small things became more important to fix.

It's amazing how easy it is to lapse into the idea the next owner will do make changes. We built the house but there were some small things that had bothered us from the start. Luckily we're healthy enough that we can do some of this stuff ourselves but it's so easy to fall back into old habits. Moving? Get rid of PS3 race chair and a bunch of stuff - including the aluminum boat that hasn't been in the water for over a decade. Now that we're not moving the boat is hanging out in the garage and it's not a priority to move out of the garage-oh well.

We let the custom home thing play with our heads. If we were going to make changes it was go big or go home. I'd say laminate floors Fred said no hardwood and we may as well do granite counters. I'm way too cheap to do that. Finally we let the house get shabby and we only recognized how badly when we put it up for sale and went looking at other homes. Ones like ours were pretty well immediately on the meh list. No nibbles in a buyers market - no wonder.

One thing that was annoying from day one was our blueprints said door swung in yet a garden door (swing out) was installed. So constant bashing against the rail, no storm door installation because of latches and just all around impractical. Now we're finally getting the door replaced and installing the storm doors ourselves. Open doors in the summer to let the breeze through and the storm door in the winter to prevent icing from letting the dogs out.

Our neighbours extended their deck to create an outside living area. Really nice but...great view into our bathroom. This has been a bug for Fred so I'm finally installing some of the privacy film on the windows. Just need to get the guts to actually cut;)

And finally the basement fireplace. We haven't been able to use it since Fred put a speaker next to it. Basement is warm enough so out it comes. Fred is doing that as a winter project. Then he'll combine all the sound systems and repurpose the 2 channel listening area, maybe a games table with a floating electric fireplace. I also replaced my desk (only 5 years overdue) since we had to move stuff around for the new floor anyway. We'll each have spaces we're happy with for those long-g-g winter months.

It's easier to understand now how retirees get into the renovation money pit. As I said, it's lucky we're young enough to make this stuff doable projects rather than having to always hire - although we are willing to hire expertise. Luckily we did our custom home as soon as we could afford it. We did choose a plan that we could grow old in and did a test run when I was on crutches for a couple months. I would still love to take out the tub under the window and put in an extra large shower. OTOH small shower keeps us motivated to stay slimmer;)

UCP caucus in the Legislature voted No, twice, to funding for the Ministry of Justice and Solicitor General that included budget for 59 new rural RCMP officers

UCP caucus in the Legislature voted No, twice, to funding for the Ministry of Justice and Solicitor General that included budget for 59 new rural RCMP officers

It's not just "city folk" committing these crimes nor "natives". It's already scary enough to drive in the country - good thing there is pretty good cell coverage as I would never approach a farm house.
http://albertapolitics.ca/2018/07/ucp-rural-crime-proposal-sure-sounds-like-a-call-to-bring-deadly-u-s-style-stand-your-ground-laws-to-canada/

A plane landed on the lake we were kayaking on this morning then took off again

A plane landed on the lake we were kayaking on this morning then took off again
https://youtu.be/U-vB9L4UMPE

This is why our first EV will be a lease.

This is why our first EV will be a lease.

A lot of these features will be embedded in mid range vehicles.
https://www.youtube.com/attribution_link?a=r-Jsx0rmdLk&u=/watch?v%3DdKVnSGTWx04%26feature%3Dplayer_embedded

Alarm dog strategically placed to see me in the mirror since he can't jump up on the bed any more

Alarm dog strategically placed to see me in the mirror since he can't jump up on the bed any more

And when I'm home only I can prepare his food. Fred got up and got it ready for him and Milo didn't move until I got up. Prepare = scoop kibble out of the bag. It's 5:30.