Did you know Canada.. Trivial Pursuit, as we all probably know, is a board game in which progress is determined by a player's ability to answer general knowledge and popular culture questions. It's also the board game Time magazine called the "the biggest phenomenon in game history".
But did you know it's also a Canadian Invention?
The game was created in 1979 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, by Canadian Chris Haney (a photo editor for Montreal's The Gazette) and Scott Abbott (a sports editor for The Canadian Press). After finding pieces of their Scrabble game missing, they decided to create their own game. With help from Ed Werner (corporate lawyer) and John Haney (Chris' brother), they completed development of the game, which was released in 1982.
In December 1993, Trivial Pursuit was named to the "Games Hall of Fame" by Games magazine.
Maybe we should go pick up the Trivial Pursuit Canadian edition!!!
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
We took the Janes Fish Taste Test
Did you know Canada.. Janes Family Foods first started in 1969 when Lem Janes Sr. (a food technician original from Estonia who made the journey to Halifax, Nova Scotia) founded Grimm’s Foods in Concord, Ontario.
After Janes personally helped pioneer frozen food technology in the Maritimes The Grimm's Foods company specialized in frozen breaded and battered seafood products for the Foodservice Industry; catering to hotels, restaurants, hospitals and school cafeterias.
Today, Janes products are Canadian Best Sellers! We recently got to try their 100% certified sustainable fish products and we love them! Not just my husband and I either, guess who else loved them - the kids!! Yes, you read that right, the kiddos enjoyed the fish like they've been eating it every day of the lives - unbelievable!
With products like Janes Breaded Premium Haddock and Janes Wild Sockeye Salmon Burger it's no wonder how wildly popular they are. I also appreciate their guarantee that their product comes from a fishery that has been independently certified to the MSC’s standard for a well managed and sustainable fishery.
We are very proud to stand behind Janes Family Foods products, have been buying their chicken for years and look forward to trying this one next - I think the kids (and I) will flip for this one. :-)
After Janes personally helped pioneer frozen food technology in the Maritimes The Grimm's Foods company specialized in frozen breaded and battered seafood products for the Foodservice Industry; catering to hotels, restaurants, hospitals and school cafeterias.
Today, Janes products are Canadian Best Sellers! We recently got to try their 100% certified sustainable fish products and we love them! Not just my husband and I either, guess who else loved them - the kids!! Yes, you read that right, the kiddos enjoyed the fish like they've been eating it every day of the lives - unbelievable!
With products like Janes Breaded Premium Haddock and Janes Wild Sockeye Salmon Burger it's no wonder how wildly popular they are. I also appreciate their guarantee that their product comes from a fishery that has been independently certified to the MSC’s standard for a well managed and sustainable fishery.
We are very proud to stand behind Janes Family Foods products, have been buying their chicken for years and look forward to trying this one next - I think the kids (and I) will flip for this one. :-)
The green garbage bag
Did you know Canada.. it was Harry Wasylyk (from Winnipeg, Manitoba) & Larry Hansen (from Lindsay, Ontario) who invented green garbage bags!
It was after the Second World War when Harry began experimenting with a then new material, polyethylene (invented in 1942). He first supplied them to Winnipeg General Hospital to line their garbage bins.
Larry Hansen worked for the Union Carbide Company in Lindsay, Ontario, who bought the invention. Union Carbide then manufactured the first green garbage bags under the name Glad Garbage bags for home use in the late 1960s.
Source: Library and Archives Canada
It was after the Second World War when Harry began experimenting with a then new material, polyethylene (invented in 1942). He first supplied them to Winnipeg General Hospital to line their garbage bins.
Larry Hansen worked for the Union Carbide Company in Lindsay, Ontario, who bought the invention. Union Carbide then manufactured the first green garbage bags under the name Glad Garbage bags for home use in the late 1960s.
Source: Library and Archives Canada
Thursday, July 28, 2011
The Iceberg Capital of the World
Did you know Canada.. Twillingate, an outport in Newfoundland and Labrador, is known as the Iceberg Capital of the World!
Twillingate is one of Newfoundland’s best locations for admiring these icebergs that break off the ice cap in Baffin Island, Greenland. The prime season for iceberg viewing is mid May to mid July each year.
As of 2006 there was only 2,448 residents living in Twillingate but visitors flock to Twillingate to explore it's fishing heritage, and discover the mighty icebergs and whales that gather in its waters.
A must to do for visitors in Twillingate is trying a piece of iceberg or “bergy bit” in your drink. These icebergs are ancient structures of pure glacier water and when a bergy bit melts in a glass filled with a beverage, it makes a fizzing sound, called “bergy seltzer”. This sound is made when compressed air bubbles trapped in the iceberg pop. The bubbles come from air trapped in snow layers that later become glacial ice.
Source: Twillingate.com, Wikipedia
(Aconcagua)
Twillingate is one of Newfoundland’s best locations for admiring these icebergs that break off the ice cap in Baffin Island, Greenland. The prime season for iceberg viewing is mid May to mid July each year.
As of 2006 there was only 2,448 residents living in Twillingate but visitors flock to Twillingate to explore it's fishing heritage, and discover the mighty icebergs and whales that gather in its waters.
A must to do for visitors in Twillingate is trying a piece of iceberg or “bergy bit” in your drink. These icebergs are ancient structures of pure glacier water and when a bergy bit melts in a glass filled with a beverage, it makes a fizzing sound, called “bergy seltzer”. This sound is made when compressed air bubbles trapped in the iceberg pop. The bubbles come from air trapped in snow layers that later become glacial ice.
Source: Twillingate.com, Wikipedia
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Giveaway! Shian Naturals Just...
Winner: Congratulations to our winner - Janice!
Update: Giveaway is now closed, thank you everyone for commenting - such a great response! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. we went camping this weekend near St. Jacob's (Kitchener ON) and had a fantastic time! One thing I brought with me was a Shian Naturals Just.. Trial Sample Pak - I have heard many times when you are in a camping setting you should never wear scents as it attracts more bugs, so this was the perfect time to try this out.
In the Trial Sample Pak you receive...
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Shampoo
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Conditioner
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Body Butter
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Moisturizing Lotion
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Massage & Bath Oil
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Organic Body Wash
* A 50g bar of Just... Glycerin Bar Soap
* A 4g regular size tube of Just... Beeswax Lip Balm
Also included is a pretty Bath Scrubby, all in a colourful gift bag! Shian Naturals is a proudly Canadian formulator, packager, and wholesale distributor of high quality, all natural, health & beauty products. All of Shian Naturals products are registered with Health Canada's cosmetics program. The Just... Line of all natural, unscented skin, hair, and body care products contains NO added fragrances or colours to the natural ingredients - perfect for our recent camping trip.
So how did it go? I LOVED it! The Body Wash had a very rich lather, the Beeswax Lip Balm prevented dry, cracked lips from being outside all day, the Shampoo and Conditioner worked great, the Body Butter was fantastic on my skin at night - just really great products. And the best part - an all Canadian Company!!
Want to order some for yourself? Use code "didyouknow" on their web store at http://www.webstore.shian.ca/ for a 15% discount on all products through to August 31st for our readers!
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win a Just...Trial Sample Pak from Shian Naturals!!
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Visit the Shian Naturals Web Store and let us know which product you'd like to try the most.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @ShianNaturals on Twitter
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
#Canada Enter to #win a Shian Naturals Just... Trial Sample Pak! Ends 08/10 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/qAByJ9
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers, closing August 10th at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a Shian Naturals Just... Trial Sample Pak for review - our opinions are our own.
Update: Giveaway is now closed, thank you everyone for commenting - such a great response! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. we went camping this weekend near St. Jacob's (Kitchener ON) and had a fantastic time! One thing I brought with me was a Shian Naturals Just.. Trial Sample Pak - I have heard many times when you are in a camping setting you should never wear scents as it attracts more bugs, so this was the perfect time to try this out.
In the Trial Sample Pak you receive...
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Shampoo
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Conditioner
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Body Butter
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Moisturizing Lotion
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Massage & Bath Oil
* A 30ml bottle of Just... Organic Body Wash
* A 50g bar of Just... Glycerin Bar Soap
* A 4g regular size tube of Just... Beeswax Lip Balm
Also included is a pretty Bath Scrubby, all in a colourful gift bag! Shian Naturals is a proudly Canadian formulator, packager, and wholesale distributor of high quality, all natural, health & beauty products. All of Shian Naturals products are registered with Health Canada's cosmetics program. The Just... Line of all natural, unscented skin, hair, and body care products contains NO added fragrances or colours to the natural ingredients - perfect for our recent camping trip.
So how did it go? I LOVED it! The Body Wash had a very rich lather, the Beeswax Lip Balm prevented dry, cracked lips from being outside all day, the Shampoo and Conditioner worked great, the Body Butter was fantastic on my skin at night - just really great products. And the best part - an all Canadian Company!!
Want to order some for yourself? Use code "didyouknow" on their web store at http://www.webstore.shian.ca/ for a 15% discount on all products through to August 31st for our readers!
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win a Just...Trial Sample Pak from Shian Naturals!!
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Visit the Shian Naturals Web Store and let us know which product you'd like to try the most.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @ShianNaturals on Twitter
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
#Canada Enter to #win a Shian Naturals Just... Trial Sample Pak! Ends 08/10 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/qAByJ9
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers, closing August 10th at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a Shian Naturals Just... Trial Sample Pak for review - our opinions are our own.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Layton Steps Down as NDP Leader (Temporarily)
Did you know Canada.. as we mentioned yesterday on Twitter Jack Layton, the leader of the NDP, has taken a temporary leave of absence to receive treatment for a new form of cancer - this is his second battle with cancer. Layton has already fought prostate cancer and is recovering from a recent hip fracture, often seen walking with a cane lately. There has been no word on the type of cancer Layton is now suffering from but Prime Minister Stephen Harper says he and all Canadians are behind Jack Layton in his fight.
Layton said he expects to be back in the House of Commons on September 19th. We wish him well and hope to see him back and healthy in September.
Layton said he expects to be back in the House of Commons on September 19th. We wish him well and hope to see him back and healthy in September.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Giveaway! Skin MD Natural
Winner: Congratulations to our winner, Diana!
Update: Giveaway is now closed. Thank you everyone for commenting - we LOVE Skin MD - I use it every single day, working wonders on my skin! Winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. we've found a great product available to Canadians: Skin MD Natural. This is fantastic for us Canadians because, as you know, with our lifestyle of "don't like the weather? well just wait 5 minutes" our weather hits all the extremes and it does a real number on our skin.
Skin MD Natural is a breakthrough in skin care that works to prevent dry skin in two ways.
First, it assists the inner layers of skin to absorb moisture. The humectant (an ingredient that attracts moisture) used in Skin MD Natural is unique to it and has been laboratory tested to be 6 times more effective than any other you will find in common skin care products.
Second, a shielding lotion enhances the power of the top layer of the skin to resist environmental irritants while protecting the inner natural moisture.
After camping this weekend (a great Canadian summer vacation idea) my feet were DYING when I got home. Using Skin MD on them last night was heaven. I am so looking forward to using Skin MD this winter as well on my poor hands and legs that seem to suffer the most in our harsh winters.
Some other great news about Skin MD Natural is that they have made a commitment to natural skin care by formulating products that contain more than 90% natural ingredients, are hypoallergenic, free of fragrances, parabens and colorants. All of the ingredients used in Skin MD Natural are 100% food-grade ingredients that are on the FDA's "most safe" list.
Skin MD Natural brings you eco friendly skin care products that manufactured using solar power while also being vegan and cruelty free.
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win a 4oz. full-sized bottle of Skin MD Natural!!
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Visit the Skin MD Natural Store Locator and let us know if Skin MD Natural is available near you. If not suggest one in your area!
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @Skinmdnatural on Twitter
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
#Canada Dry skin got you down this summer? Enter to #win a bottle of Skin MD Natural! Ends 08/08 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/qf5Bbg
Giveaway open to US and Canadian readers closing August 8th at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a bottle of Skin MD Natural for review - our opinions are our own.
Update: Giveaway is now closed. Thank you everyone for commenting - we LOVE Skin MD - I use it every single day, working wonders on my skin! Winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. we've found a great product available to Canadians: Skin MD Natural. This is fantastic for us Canadians because, as you know, with our lifestyle of "don't like the weather? well just wait 5 minutes" our weather hits all the extremes and it does a real number on our skin.
Skin MD Natural is a breakthrough in skin care that works to prevent dry skin in two ways.
First, it assists the inner layers of skin to absorb moisture. The humectant (an ingredient that attracts moisture) used in Skin MD Natural is unique to it and has been laboratory tested to be 6 times more effective than any other you will find in common skin care products.
Second, a shielding lotion enhances the power of the top layer of the skin to resist environmental irritants while protecting the inner natural moisture.
After camping this weekend (a great Canadian summer vacation idea) my feet were DYING when I got home. Using Skin MD on them last night was heaven. I am so looking forward to using Skin MD this winter as well on my poor hands and legs that seem to suffer the most in our harsh winters.
Some other great news about Skin MD Natural is that they have made a commitment to natural skin care by formulating products that contain more than 90% natural ingredients, are hypoallergenic, free of fragrances, parabens and colorants. All of the ingredients used in Skin MD Natural are 100% food-grade ingredients that are on the FDA's "most safe" list.
Skin MD Natural brings you eco friendly skin care products that manufactured using solar power while also being vegan and cruelty free.
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win a 4oz. full-sized bottle of Skin MD Natural!!
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Visit the Skin MD Natural Store Locator and let us know if Skin MD Natural is available near you. If not suggest one in your area!
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @Skinmdnatural on Twitter
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
#Canada Dry skin got you down this summer? Enter to #win a bottle of Skin MD Natural! Ends 08/08 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/qf5Bbg
Giveaway open to US and Canadian readers closing August 8th at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a bottle of Skin MD Natural for review - our opinions are our own.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Great opportunity for Small Businesses
Did you know Canada.. we've heard about a great opportunity for those running a Small Business in Canada: CentrSource Canada is running a contest for small business owners with over $40,000 in prizes to be won! It doesn't matter what type of business you run whether it's a gift shop you've been running for years or an Esty shop you started last month, it doesn't have to be a "registered" business either (I'm thinking about you crafty Facebook friends!!) AND each person that enters receives 2 months of free advertising on CentrSource Canada!
It's easy to enter on their Facebook page, just sign up by creating an ad for your business for friends and family to vote on. Out of the 50 ads with the most votes the most creative ad will win: One Grand Prize of $15,000 cash + 6 months of free advertising on CentrSource!! One ad out of the 50 with also be randomly selected for one Secondary Prize of $5,000 cash + 3 months of free advertising on CentrSource. There is also fantastic weekly prizes of $1,000 cash + 1 month of free advertising on CentrSource. Good news for friends as well: Everyone who votes gets the chance to win an iPad2!
$15,000 can make a HUGE difference to a Canadian Small Business Owner, I look forward to seeing all your ads! Use this link to get started.
It's easy to enter on their Facebook page, just sign up by creating an ad for your business for friends and family to vote on. Out of the 50 ads with the most votes the most creative ad will win: One Grand Prize of $15,000 cash + 6 months of free advertising on CentrSource!! One ad out of the 50 with also be randomly selected for one Secondary Prize of $5,000 cash + 3 months of free advertising on CentrSource. There is also fantastic weekly prizes of $1,000 cash + 1 month of free advertising on CentrSource. Good news for friends as well: Everyone who votes gets the chance to win an iPad2!
$15,000 can make a HUGE difference to a Canadian Small Business Owner, I look forward to seeing all your ads! Use this link to get started.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Beat the Heat
Did you know Canada.. we're going to break some records today! Records for highest temperature and humidex dating back to 1918 will likely be broken today as temperatures rise to 38-39 degrees and a humidex of 49-50!!!
This is not a day to brush off the warnings thinking they are meant for someone else. All Canadians - please check on neighbours, ensure they have cool water, fans and ways to keep their body temperatures down. If they don't, get them to a cooling centre! If your city or town will be facing the extreme hit today they've likely set up one or more local cooling centres - tune into local news to find out these locations and utilize them if needed.
AM980News tweeted a very interesting fact this morning: It'll be hotter in London, Ontario today than it is in Kandahar, Mumbai and parts of Ghana!
I read an interesting (and scary) story yesterday (I think it was on the Weather Network) that it's not so much the day time temperatures but because temperatures are not going below 20 degrees at night this is causing two serious problems:
* for those without a/c and ways to cool off the body does not get a chance to rebuild itself and prepare for the next day - this it what has killed many during heatwaves in our history
* this can also lead to "superstorms" with what was seen at Bayfest as just the start of them if temperatures continue
So stay cool Canada, remember our little ones and seniors, if anyone is playing sports today call ahead as many have been cancelled already.
This is not a day to brush off the warnings thinking they are meant for someone else. All Canadians - please check on neighbours, ensure they have cool water, fans and ways to keep their body temperatures down. If they don't, get them to a cooling centre! If your city or town will be facing the extreme hit today they've likely set up one or more local cooling centres - tune into local news to find out these locations and utilize them if needed.
AM980News tweeted a very interesting fact this morning: It'll be hotter in London, Ontario today than it is in Kandahar, Mumbai and parts of Ghana!
I read an interesting (and scary) story yesterday (I think it was on the Weather Network) that it's not so much the day time temperatures but because temperatures are not going below 20 degrees at night this is causing two serious problems:
* for those without a/c and ways to cool off the body does not get a chance to rebuild itself and prepare for the next day - this it what has killed many during heatwaves in our history
* this can also lead to "superstorms" with what was seen at Bayfest as just the start of them if temperatures continue
So stay cool Canada, remember our little ones and seniors, if anyone is playing sports today call ahead as many have been cancelled already.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Polar Bear Capital of the World
Did you know Canada.. Churchill MB is the self proclaimed Polar Bear Capital of the World - and for good reason!Located on the shore of Hudson Bay in Manitoba, Churchill is a popular location for ecotourism, as well as for Arctic research. There are no roads that lead to Churchill. Travel is by rail or air only.
Churchill’s ‘bear season’ begins in early October and numbers build until in early November, sometimes 40 or more polar bears can be seen on a given day. This is Churchill’s prime tourist season with 12,000 or more visitors passing through in six weeks.
Churchill maintains a polar bear jail where young bears who persistently loiter in or close to town, are held after being tranquillised, until they are released back into the wild when the bay freezes over and they can head for food.
Polar Bears are not the only wildlife to be seen in Churchill - along with the approximately 1200 Polar Bears to be seen there are approximately 3,000 Beluga Whales, over 200 species of birds, Arctic and Red Foxes, Arctic Hare, Caribou, Gyrfalcons, Snowy Owls, Ptarmigan and even the occasional Lemming!
Source: churchill.ca, Wikipedia
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Youth Day 2011
Did you know Canada.. the 5th annual Youth Day will be held in Toronto at YONGE-DUNDAS SQUARE on Sunday, July 24th!
According to their website.. This non-stop FREE family venue starts with an official flag parade up Yonge Street at 11:30am and runs past 10:00pm. The festival includes 2 outdoor stages plus a Youth Gallery filled with their art and photography in the heart of the City! Over 100 acts include a multitude of incredible Flash Dances, Celebrity mentors performing, motivational speakers from the entertainment world and the community, plus of course, the surprise headliner to close the much anticipated day!
Check out http://www.youthdaytoronto.com/ for more information and let us know if you're going!
According to their website.. This non-stop FREE family venue starts with an official flag parade up Yonge Street at 11:30am and runs past 10:00pm. The festival includes 2 outdoor stages plus a Youth Gallery filled with their art and photography in the heart of the City! Over 100 acts include a multitude of incredible Flash Dances, Celebrity mentors performing, motivational speakers from the entertainment world and the community, plus of course, the surprise headliner to close the much anticipated day!
Check out http://www.youthdaytoronto.com/ for more information and let us know if you're going!
Operation Nanook
Did you know Canada.. Canada Command is planning Operation NANOOK 11, a whole-of-government operation that will take place from 1-31 August 2011.
This operation is described by some as a show of muscle aganist the Russians over part of the Article floor where Russian and Canadian claims overlap. Prime Minister Harper is set to attend as he has previously.
Canada's National Defence perfers to describe the operation as: Op NANOOK 11 is the largest of three operations conducted every year in Canada’s North and is designed to enhance Canadian sovereignty and to continue to improve the Canadian Forces’ capabilities when conducting Arctic operations.
Approximately 1,100 CF members, including Canadian Rangers, will participate in Op NANOOK 11, conducting patrols and tactical aviation missions in the area of Resolute Bay, as well as maritime patrols in Baffin Bay and Lancaster Sound.
The operation will also consist of a major air disaster exercise and the CF will act in a supporting role while assisting the Canadian Coast Guard in a maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) event. Both of these scenarios will also include participation from several other government departments.
This operation is described by some as a show of muscle aganist the Russians over part of the Article floor where Russian and Canadian claims overlap. Prime Minister Harper is set to attend as he has previously.
Canada's National Defence perfers to describe the operation as: Op NANOOK 11 is the largest of three operations conducted every year in Canada’s North and is designed to enhance Canadian sovereignty and to continue to improve the Canadian Forces’ capabilities when conducting Arctic operations.
Approximately 1,100 CF members, including Canadian Rangers, will participate in Op NANOOK 11, conducting patrols and tactical aviation missions in the area of Resolute Bay, as well as maritime patrols in Baffin Bay and Lancaster Sound.
The operation will also consist of a major air disaster exercise and the CF will act in a supporting role while assisting the Canadian Coast Guard in a maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) event. Both of these scenarios will also include participation from several other government departments.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Giveaway! I.C.E. Tags
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting - So happy with our I.C.E. Tags! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. I.C.E. (In Case of Emergency) was an idea originally conceived by Bob Brotchie, a Paramedic in Britain in May 2005. His idea was to have everyone add a contact in their cell phone named I.C.E. This contact would be the name and telephone number of the person they would like contacted in the event of an emergency.
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Canadian Company I.C.E. Tags has taken the concept one step further with Key, Wallet and Shoe Tags. Their products can be used anywhere - wallet, backpacks, helmets, shoes, keys and more. As a Mom of 2 young boys I think this is fantastic. Little ones can't always remember their phone number, especially in a state of panic, and if it's an even worse emergency that they can't speak Mom needs to know right away!!!
This isn't just for kids either, there are SO many people that this would be great for - those that bike or run alone, those on the road a lot, students, business men out of town, travellers and more.
I was very happy to receive I.C.E. tags I can slip onto my kiddos bags and my husband (who drives about 45 minutes to work everyday) can stick in his wallet. For me, I can just stick it on my key ring, and you never have to think about it again until you need it; and with out a doubt if that time ever comes you will be so grateful for it.
I love that the tags themselves are hard plastic, nothing flimsy that the kids could crumple up or that will fall apart in the rain - perfect for an active family.
Want to order I.C.E. Tags for your family today? Use code DYKC-FREE to receive free shipping!!
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win a Family Pack of Six (6) of I.C.E. Tags!!
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Visit the I.C.E. Tags product page and let us know which I.C.E. Tag you would use.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @ICE_Tag on Twitter
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
#Canada Check out this fantastic chance to #win I.C.E. Tags for the entire family! Ends 08/01 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/nGPNAq
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers closing August 1st at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received I.C.E. Tags for review - our opinions are our own.
Did you know Canada.. I.C.E. (In Case of Emergency) was an idea originally conceived by Bob Brotchie, a Paramedic in Britain in May 2005. His idea was to have everyone add a contact in their cell phone named I.C.E. This contact would be the name and telephone number of the person they would like contacted in the event of an emergency.
Canadian Company I.C.E. Tags has taken the concept one step further with Key, Wallet and Shoe Tags. Their products can be used anywhere - wallet, backpacks, helmets, shoes, keys and more. As a Mom of 2 young boys I think this is fantastic. Little ones can't always remember their phone number, especially in a state of panic, and if it's an even worse emergency that they can't speak Mom needs to know right away!!!
This isn't just for kids either, there are SO many people that this would be great for - those that bike or run alone, those on the road a lot, students, business men out of town, travellers and more.
I was very happy to receive I.C.E. tags I can slip onto my kiddos bags and my husband (who drives about 45 minutes to work everyday) can stick in his wallet. For me, I can just stick it on my key ring, and you never have to think about it again until you need it; and with out a doubt if that time ever comes you will be so grateful for it.
I love that the tags themselves are hard plastic, nothing flimsy that the kids could crumple up or that will fall apart in the rain - perfect for an active family.
Want to order I.C.E. Tags for your family today? Use code DYKC-FREE to receive free shipping!!
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win a Family Pack of Six (6) of I.C.E. Tags!!
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Visit the I.C.E. Tags product page and let us know which I.C.E. Tag you would use.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @ICE_Tag on Twitter
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
#Canada Check out this fantastic chance to #win I.C.E. Tags for the entire family! Ends 08/01 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/nGPNAq
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers closing August 1st at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received I.C.E. Tags for review - our opinions are our own.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Body Image
Did you know Canada.. I read a great article on body image on EdenCafe about how Gramma, Mom and other family members can make those comments like "you'd be a knockout if you lost some weight". We put a lot of blame on the media about the unhealthy images today's youth (not just girls!!) receive but it can come from any source, including those closest to us and those we trust the most.
There's an organization in Canada called NEDIC or, the National Eating Disorder Information Centre, that provides some great information on body image, eating disorders, treatment and more. A recent study found 27% of Ontario girls 12-18 years old were reported to be engaged in severely problematic food and weight behaviour and this carries into adulthood. As a Mom with little ones you're often talking to other Moms at soccer, story time, playdates, etc.. and when you think back on conversations it's almost unbelievable how often Mom's (and really, women in general) put themselves down.
There's a great community through the EdenFantasys website that focuses a lot on body image, healthy living and helping others learn that no matter what your body type is you can be happy, feel sexy and be beautiful!
There's an organization in Canada called NEDIC or, the National Eating Disorder Information Centre, that provides some great information on body image, eating disorders, treatment and more. A recent study found 27% of Ontario girls 12-18 years old were reported to be engaged in severely problematic food and weight behaviour and this carries into adulthood. As a Mom with little ones you're often talking to other Moms at soccer, story time, playdates, etc.. and when you think back on conversations it's almost unbelievable how often Mom's (and really, women in general) put themselves down.
There's a great community through the EdenFantasys website that focuses a lot on body image, healthy living and helping others learn that no matter what your body type is you can be happy, feel sexy and be beautiful!
Stolen Vehicles in Canada
Did you know Canada.. 2010 was the fourth straight year the Honda Civic is Canada's most stolen vehicle. Other vehicles on the list include Cadillac Escalade, Acura RSX and Hummer H2's.
Unfortunately no vehicle is safe. A professional thief can steal a car in about 30 seconds, even without a key.
Also about 25% of vehicles stolen in Canada are never recovered; many are stripped for parts or exported to other countries.
I've never had a vehicle stolen but a co-worker from many years ago did, and my car was parked right beside hers - eek!
Do you ever worry when parking your car that it might not be there when you come back?
Unfortunately no vehicle is safe. A professional thief can steal a car in about 30 seconds, even without a key.
Also about 25% of vehicles stolen in Canada are never recovered; many are stripped for parts or exported to other countries.
I've never had a vehicle stolen but a co-worker from many years ago did, and my car was parked right beside hers - eek!
Do you ever worry when parking your car that it might not be there when you come back?
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Parks Canada Celebrates 100 years
Did you know Canada.. Today (July 16th) is Parks Canada Centennial Celebration!!
There are events nation wide and Parks Canada is offering DOORS OPEN! That means free admission for Canadians at each of its 42 parks, 167 national historic sites, and 4 national marine conservation areas.
If you are in the area don't miss Parks Canada Celebrations in Montreal , Toronto and Vancouver, featuring free outdoor concerts and Parks Canada activities!
How else can you celebrate? Well Parks Canada has introduced Canada's newest Campfire song, check it out here. Also look here to view Parks Canada beautiful Centennial Commemorative Coin.
Congratulations on 100 years Parks Canada, here's to the next 100!!
There are events nation wide and Parks Canada is offering DOORS OPEN! That means free admission for Canadians at each of its 42 parks, 167 national historic sites, and 4 national marine conservation areas.
If you are in the area don't miss Parks Canada Celebrations in Montreal , Toronto and Vancouver, featuring free outdoor concerts and Parks Canada activities!
How else can you celebrate? Well Parks Canada has introduced Canada's newest Campfire song, check it out here. Also look here to view Parks Canada beautiful Centennial Commemorative Coin.
Congratulations on 100 years Parks Canada, here's to the next 100!!
Friday, July 15, 2011
Day Out With Thomas: Leader of the Track Tour 2011
Did you know Canada.. Thomas is in town today!! Thomas is visiting Southern Ontario this weekend and next. Today my boys and I visited with Thomas on his opening day and we had a FANTASTIC day! Here's what we did..
Boys in the car heading to see their hero Thomas..
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Bubbles at the really cool bubble truck..
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Boys in the car heading to see their hero Thomas..
Bubbles at the really cool bubble truck..
A few rounds of the Hay Maze..
We hit up the Thomas store and checked out the very cool events indoors (trains, live entertainment, story telling, bouncy houses, crafts, tattoos and more..
Making some new friends at the Petting Zoo (new this year)..
Waiting for some yummy lunch..
In line for our turn on Thomas, he's coming!!!
Finally the big guy arrives..
Waving to everyone we pass during the ride..
We had an interesting chat with the volunteers while we waited in line for Thomas.. folks have come from far and wide to visit with Thomas today - Niagara region, New York, Ottawa, London, Windsor, Woodstock and more..
A Day Out With Thomas is well worth the drive for any Thomas fan, between the main attraction of riding Thomas and meeting Sir Topham Hatt to the live entertainment, the bubbles, the animals and more it made for a fantastic day.
Do you have plans to see Thomas???
Thursday, July 14, 2011
We are crazy for Twitter Canada!
Did you know Canada.. we've discussed before that it's Canadians who spend more time online than any other country. A new study has just come out from C-B-C/Radio-Canada and B-B-M Analytics indicating it's Twitter that is driving this trend.
Anglophone Twitter users averaged about 33.4 hours online a week, while francophones were at 23.8 hours.
Not surprisingly the report also indicated that increasing smartphone and tablet use, along with the availability of better online content, are also getting people online more often.
Something else I thought was interesting is they found the heaviest Internet users tend to be younger, live in Toronto or Montreal, have higher incomes and take public transit.
Are you surprised to hear it's Twitter that pushes us to the top of list Canada?
Anglophone Twitter users averaged about 33.4 hours online a week, while francophones were at 23.8 hours.
Not surprisingly the report also indicated that increasing smartphone and tablet use, along with the availability of better online content, are also getting people online more often.
Something else I thought was interesting is they found the heaviest Internet users tend to be younger, live in Toronto or Montreal, have higher incomes and take public transit.
Are you surprised to hear it's Twitter that pushes us to the top of list Canada?
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Rock n' Roll and so much more
Did you know Canada.. these are just a few of the music industries top artists and groups who are Canadian..
Source: Juno Awards, canadianmusician.com, Wikipedia
- Justin Bieber
- Michael Bublé
- Buck 65
- Hedley
- Arcade Fire
- Neil Young
- Sarah McLachlan
- Drake
- Three Days Grace
- Finger Eleven
- Matthew Good
- Nikki Yanofsky
Source: Juno Awards, canadianmusician.com, Wikipedia
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Canada's Worst Air Crash
Did you know Canada.. our worst air crash was December 12, 1985 when an Arrow Airlines DC-8 Flight 1285 crashed after takeoff from a refuelling stop in Gander, Newfoundland en route to Fort Campbell. The aircraft stalled, crashed, and burned about half a mile from the runway, killing all 256 passengers and crew on board.
According to a CASB Majority Report (REPORT NUMBER 85-H50902)..
The Canadian Aviation Safety Board was unable to determine the exact sequence of events which led to this accident. The Board believes, however, that the weight of evidence supports the conclusion that, shortly after lift-off, the aircraft experienced an increase in drag and reduction in lift which resulted in a stall at low altitude from which recovery was not possible. The most probable cause of the stall was determined to be ice contamination on the leading edge and upper surface of the wing.
Of the 248 servicemen, all but twelve were members of 101st Airborne Division; eleven were from other Forces Command units; and one was an agent from the Criminal Investigations Command (CID).
A memorial to the 256 victims at the crash site overlooks Gander Lake, and another memorial was erected at Fort Campbell. There is also a Memorial Park in Hopkinsville, KY, just north of Fort Campbell.
According to a CASB Majority Report (REPORT NUMBER 85-H50902)..
The Canadian Aviation Safety Board was unable to determine the exact sequence of events which led to this accident. The Board believes, however, that the weight of evidence supports the conclusion that, shortly after lift-off, the aircraft experienced an increase in drag and reduction in lift which resulted in a stall at low altitude from which recovery was not possible. The most probable cause of the stall was determined to be ice contamination on the leading edge and upper surface of the wing.
Of the 248 servicemen, all but twelve were members of 101st Airborne Division; eleven were from other Forces Command units; and one was an agent from the Criminal Investigations Command (CID).
A memorial to the 256 victims at the crash site overlooks Gander Lake, and another memorial was erected at Fort Campbell. There is also a Memorial Park in Hopkinsville, KY, just north of Fort Campbell.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Giveaway! DK Canada: Parents' Boutique
Winner: Congratulations to our winner Jen!! Thanks again everyone for joining our giveaway, please check out our other current giveaways on the side bar.
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting!! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. I've been reading an amazing book for expectant Mamas and parents of little ones. The book is from DK Canada's Parents' Boutique: CMA Complete Book of Mother and Baby Care.
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* It's from the Canadian Medical Association - this is a huge one for me, when I was pregnant with twins I found it very frustrating that I would skip large sections of books. Canadian health care and hospital routines simply do not work like the ones in the States, making many books very unhelpful for us.
Some of my favourite parts of the book include..
* Step-by-step directions, with photos, on how to make a baby's bottle from formula. This sounds so ridiculous now but when I got home from the hospital with my twins and we had to go with formula for many reasons I had NO CLUE how to make up a bottle and at that time of confusion and stress I did not find the directions on the can very helpful. There's also a perfect section (with photos!!) on cleaning and sterilizing as well - another thing I would have paid any amount of money for when I was on my own and confused about how everything worked.
* A really nice sleeping chart on how much and when children usually sleep from 4 weeks all the way up to 3 years.
* Fantastic medical section, again with photos, for all the crazy things you can run into with a child.
When I was pregnant I bought about 4 or 5 books and was give a few more and I honestly have to say with the CANADIAN information and amazingly helpful photos CMA Complete Book of Mother and Baby Care is head and shoulders above the rest.
Now one of our lucky Canadian Moms-To-Be will win a set of books to get her through her pregnancy with all the information she needs on her body and her baby.
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win a Mom-To-Be Prize Pack from DK Canada's Parents' Boutique consisting of these fabulous books..
Pregnancy Day by Day Canadian Edition – $40.00
Pregnancy & Birth Essential Checklists - $15.95
Pregnant Body Book - $45.00
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These books are filled with information for Canadian Parents, something I think is SO important. A pregnancy in Canada can be very different from any other country and you need information about what is going to happen to YOU during pregnancy. You don't just want general information, you want DETAILS.
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Like how I think Mom's need information on how to make a bottle - In the comment section tell us a piece of information you think every Mom needs to know.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @DKCanada on Twitter
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Moms-To-Be Check out our 3 book giveaway detailing your pregnancy with #Canadian information! Ends 07/25 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/pX8Tri
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers closing July 25th at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a copy of CMA Complete Book of Mother and Baby - our opinions are our own.
Update: Giveaway is now closed - thank you everyone for commenting!! The winner is being contacted now.
Did you know Canada.. I've been reading an amazing book for expectant Mamas and parents of little ones. The book is from DK Canada's Parents' Boutique: CMA Complete Book of Mother and Baby Care.
This book is fantastic for so many reasons..
* It's from the Canadian Medical Association - this is a huge one for me, when I was pregnant with twins I found it very frustrating that I would skip large sections of books. Canadian health care and hospital routines simply do not work like the ones in the States, making many books very unhelpful for us.* The book is filled to the brim with photos (over 1000 colour photographs and images) - this gives you much more detail and makes you feel more confident you understand the information.
* The book provides helpful information all the way up to age 3. Including tips on stages of pregnancy and delivery, nutrition, self-care, baby care, step-by-step guides to feeding, bathing, diaper changing. Also in this updated edition there is an up-to-date Canadian resource section, first aid section with approved CPR guidelines, a handy growth chart and more to give you the skills and information you need for your little one.
Some of my favourite parts of the book include..
* Step-by-step directions, with photos, on how to make a baby's bottle from formula. This sounds so ridiculous now but when I got home from the hospital with my twins and we had to go with formula for many reasons I had NO CLUE how to make up a bottle and at that time of confusion and stress I did not find the directions on the can very helpful. There's also a perfect section (with photos!!) on cleaning and sterilizing as well - another thing I would have paid any amount of money for when I was on my own and confused about how everything worked.
* A really nice sleeping chart on how much and when children usually sleep from 4 weeks all the way up to 3 years.
* Fantastic medical section, again with photos, for all the crazy things you can run into with a child.
When I was pregnant I bought about 4 or 5 books and was give a few more and I honestly have to say with the CANADIAN information and amazingly helpful photos CMA Complete Book of Mother and Baby Care is head and shoulders above the rest.
Now one of our lucky Canadian Moms-To-Be will win a set of books to get her through her pregnancy with all the information she needs on her body and her baby.
Giveaway
One lucky reader will win a Mom-To-Be Prize Pack from DK Canada's Parents' Boutique consisting of these fabulous books..
Pregnancy Day by Day Canadian Edition – $40.00
Pregnancy & Birth Essential Checklists - $15.95
Pregnant Body Book - $45.00
These books are filled with information for Canadian Parents, something I think is SO important. A pregnancy in Canada can be very different from any other country and you need information about what is going to happen to YOU during pregnancy. You don't just want general information, you want DETAILS.
Mandatory Entry - one mandatory entry per person
Like how I think Mom's need information on how to make a bottle - In the comment section tell us a piece of information you think every Mom needs to know.
Optional Entries - 1 comment per each optional entry
- Follow @DKCanada on Twitter
- Follow Did you know Canada on GFC
- Follow @diduknowcanada on Twitter
- Like Did you know Canada on Facebook
- Tweet this giveaway (link to your tweet in comment, can be done 2x a day during giveaway)
Example Tweet..
Moms-To-Be Check out our 3 book giveaway detailing your pregnancy with #Canadian information! Ends 07/25 @diduknowcanada http://bit.ly/pX8Tri
Giveaway open to our Canadian readers closing July 25th at 9:00pm EST. You must leave an email address so I have a way to contact you in the event that you win. Winners must respond within 72 hours or another winner will be chosen in their place.
Disclosure: We received a copy of CMA Complete Book of Mother and Baby - our opinions are our own.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Where are all the cowboys?
Did you know Canada.. Alberta is home to most of Canada's Cowboys. Calgary is the centre of the Canadian cattle industry. Cattle actually outnumber people in Alberta!
The Calgary Stampede started in 1912 and still goes strong today. Running a 10 day event in July. It's known as the world's richest rodeo offering more than $2 million in prizes.
Source: Wikipedia, Calgary Stampede, Alberta Tourism
The Calgary Stampede started in 1912 and still goes strong today. Running a 10 day event in July. It's known as the world's richest rodeo offering more than $2 million in prizes.
Source: Wikipedia, Calgary Stampede, Alberta Tourism
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Care.com Survey on Kids and Cursing
Did you know Canada.. Care.com has released results on an interesting new survey. They found that 86% of parents believe that kids ages 2-12 curse more than they did when they were kids. Interestingly, while 93% of parents have made an effort not to curse in front of their child; 8 out of 10 parents also admitted to cursing in front of their children. Have you ever caught your self swearing in front of your children? I'm sure I've done it once or twice in my boys 4 years.
54% of parents revealed that their child has cursed in their presence. The survey found while more than three-quarters explained that it was a 'bad' word, ten percent of parents laughed after hearing their children swear. How would you react??
The surveyed parents felt this increase in curing came from many sources: 39% of parents blame other children, either from day care, a playgroup or older siblings. 34% blame television, games and movies, and nearly 24% blame themselves or their spouses.
Visit Care.com for a full list of tips on how to prevent your children from cursing. You can also watch The Today Show Friday morning for more discussions on these results.
Let us know what you think - do you agree with the survey results?
54% of parents revealed that their child has cursed in their presence. The survey found while more than three-quarters explained that it was a 'bad' word, ten percent of parents laughed after hearing their children swear. How would you react??
The surveyed parents felt this increase in curing came from many sources: 39% of parents blame other children, either from day care, a playgroup or older siblings. 34% blame television, games and movies, and nearly 24% blame themselves or their spouses.
Visit Care.com for a full list of tips on how to prevent your children from cursing. You can also watch The Today Show Friday morning for more discussions on these results.
Let us know what you think - do you agree with the survey results?
First Canadian in Space
Did you know Canada.. it was Marc Garneau who was the first Canadian in space! He took part in three flights aboard NASA Space shuttles. He was also the president of the Canadian Space Agency from 2001-2006, and in 2003 was installed as the ninth Chancellor of Carleton University in Ottawa.
He was Canada's first astronaut and he became the first Canadian in space in October 1984. In 1984 he was seconded to the new Canadian Astronaut Program (CAP), one of seven chosen from over 4,000 applicants. He flew on the shuttle Challenger, STS-41-G from October 5 to 13, 1984 as payload specialist.
In 1992-93 he underwent further training to become a mission specialist. He worked as CAPCOM for a number of shuttle flights and was on two further flights himself - STS-77 (May 19 to 29, 1996) and STS-97 (to the ISS, November 30 to December 11, 2000). He has logged almost 678 hours in space and is now retired as an astronaut.
Garneau was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1984 in recognition of his role as the first Canadian astronaut. He was promoted the rank of Companion within the order in 2003 for his extensive work with Canada's space program.
Source: Canadian Space Agency, Wikipedia
He was Canada's first astronaut and he became the first Canadian in space in October 1984. In 1984 he was seconded to the new Canadian Astronaut Program (CAP), one of seven chosen from over 4,000 applicants. He flew on the shuttle Challenger, STS-41-G from October 5 to 13, 1984 as payload specialist.
In 1992-93 he underwent further training to become a mission specialist. He worked as CAPCOM for a number of shuttle flights and was on two further flights himself - STS-77 (May 19 to 29, 1996) and STS-97 (to the ISS, November 30 to December 11, 2000). He has logged almost 678 hours in space and is now retired as an astronaut.
Garneau was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1984 in recognition of his role as the first Canadian astronaut. He was promoted the rank of Companion within the order in 2003 for his extensive work with Canada's space program.
Source: Canadian Space Agency, Wikipedia
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Mayfly
Did you know Canada.. there are some folks across the nation that are cringing every time they go outside between May and the middle of July because they are always on the look out for Mayflies.
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The Mayfly is known by many names - "dayfly", "shadfly", "dunes", "canadian soldiers", "lake fly" or "fishfly" around the Great Lakes.
Surprisingly the lifespan of an adult Mayfly can vary from just 30 minutes to one day depending on the species as an adult Mayfly does not eat or drink (they actually have underdeveloped mouths and can not feed), the primary function of the adult is reproduction only (a female Mayfly releases up to 8,000 eggs).
The Mayfly is very susceptible to pollution, so funny enough Mayflies are a good indicator species for the health of a lake - though no one may want to be around the lake when swarms of these large insects are around.
Mayflies are an important food for fish and appreciated by many fishermen, especially fly fishermen after trout - many of their lures are based off of Mayflies.
They are known to be the oldest insect alive, and are believed to date back from about 300 million years ago. While not everyone appreciated the Mayfly they are a pretty interesting species!
Surprisingly the lifespan of an adult Mayfly can vary from just 30 minutes to one day depending on the species as an adult Mayfly does not eat or drink (they actually have underdeveloped mouths and can not feed), the primary function of the adult is reproduction only (a female Mayfly releases up to 8,000 eggs).
The Mayfly is very susceptible to pollution, so funny enough Mayflies are a good indicator species for the health of a lake - though no one may want to be around the lake when swarms of these large insects are around.
Mayflies are an important food for fish and appreciated by many fishermen, especially fly fishermen after trout - many of their lures are based off of Mayflies.
They are known to be the oldest insect alive, and are believed to date back from about 300 million years ago. While not everyone appreciated the Mayfly they are a pretty interesting species!
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Caribou Decline in Canada
Did you know Canada.. We honour caribou on the 25 cent piece but one of Canada’s most recognized national symbols is fighting a losing battle as their numbers continue to decline across the nation.
We've talked about the Caribou before but wanted to let you know about their current challenges.
As Parks Canada explains.. In recent years in the high arctic, the temperature has risen above freezing in October. The surface snow melts and re-freezes into a layer of nearly impenetrable ice, sealing off ground lichens and plants upon which these caribou feed in winter. Their numbers have decreased to the point where they are threatened with extinction.
Increase on human activities such as diamond mines, ice roads, oil and gas exploration, a pending pipeline and increasing populations in caribou territory is another major factor. There are now four diamond mines in the range of the Bathurst barren ground caribou herd.
Some populations have been determined to be at risk by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC).
According to Hinterland Who's Who There are national recovery teams, draft recovery plans, and coordinated recovery actions underway for the Peary caribou and the four populations of woodland caribou that are at risk: Atlantic-Gaspésie, Boreal, Southern Mountain, and Northern Mountain. Since the range of the Boreal population is so extensive, there are also regional recovery teams in place in each of the eight provinces and territories that have responsibility for “boreal caribou.”
It's time to think more about our national symbol, support conversation and recovery efforts and help save our Caribou.
We've talked about the Caribou before but wanted to let you know about their current challenges.
As Parks Canada explains.. In recent years in the high arctic, the temperature has risen above freezing in October. The surface snow melts and re-freezes into a layer of nearly impenetrable ice, sealing off ground lichens and plants upon which these caribou feed in winter. Their numbers have decreased to the point where they are threatened with extinction.
Increase on human activities such as diamond mines, ice roads, oil and gas exploration, a pending pipeline and increasing populations in caribou territory is another major factor. There are now four diamond mines in the range of the Bathurst barren ground caribou herd.
Some populations have been determined to be at risk by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC).
According to Hinterland Who's Who There are national recovery teams, draft recovery plans, and coordinated recovery actions underway for the Peary caribou and the four populations of woodland caribou that are at risk: Atlantic-Gaspésie, Boreal, Southern Mountain, and Northern Mountain. Since the range of the Boreal population is so extensive, there are also regional recovery teams in place in each of the eight provinces and territories that have responsibility for “boreal caribou.”
It's time to think more about our national symbol, support conversation and recovery efforts and help save our Caribou.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
On Screen
Did you know Canada.. this is just a few of the famous Canadian Actors out there..
The list goes on!!
Source: Wikipedia, NorthernStars, r-go.ca, AskMen Canada, Canadian Actor
- Kiefer Sutherland
- Ryan Gosling
- William Shatner
- Jim Carrey
- Dan Aykroyd
- Martin Short
- Mike Myers
- John Candy
- Catherine O`Hara
- Donald Sutherland
- Evangeline Lilly
- Howie Mandel
- Joshua Jackson
- Keanu Reeves
- Matthew Perry
- Michael J. Fox
- Pamela Anderson
- Seth Rogen
The list goes on!!
Source: Wikipedia, NorthernStars, r-go.ca, AskMen Canada, Canadian Actor
Friday, July 1, 2011
Buy Canadian First Interview
Did you know Canada.. during Canada Day while we are BBQ'ing, playing in the pool and watching Will & Kate visit our Nation's Capital; it is also a good day to think about the products and services that Canada provides. Have a peek in the cupboard and see what you have that is Made in Canada, and what isn't. I was lucky enough to interview a woman that is very passionate about this topic, Buy Canadian First founder Isabelle Remy.
SK: I have always loved hearing stories about where people get their ideas, such as J.K. Rowling's famous story about the Harry Potter characters walking into her head while she was on a train. Passionate about products made in Canada, founder of Buy Canadian First, Isabelle Remy, also has a story that I love to read...
Read more of our interview on The Good Shopper Blog.
SK: I have always loved hearing stories about where people get their ideas, such as J.K. Rowling's famous story about the Harry Potter characters walking into her head while she was on a train. Passionate about products made in Canada, founder of Buy Canadian First, Isabelle Remy, also has a story that I love to read...
Read more of our interview on The Good Shopper Blog.
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