Word On The Street - Initial Impression

It was an exciting weekend at Word On The Street.  I didn’t know it was where it actually is because I didn’t recognize the name of the Square.  They keep changing names in Toronto or providing names and I don’t even bother to pay attention anymore.  If they had said Roy Thompson Hall where I have been to see the Vienna Choir or the Alexander Theatre, where I was a member until COVID hit us,  or TIFF, I would have had a huh huh moment.  What I loved was all the parking - tons.  If I move to Niagara and they have it at the same location next year it is across from the Ritz (Can I afford that plus a tent, plus travel?)  There was a discount for the Chelsea hotel but people were driving there, which doesn’t normally work for me.  So I shall let you know what my experience was.  First I had a scheduled time and I was expected to be there not a moment earlier or later.  Ok.  I left my house giving myself plenty of time to get there and it took me what?  15 or 20 minutes?  There was minimum traffic and I hit all the green lights.  I got there too early and though there was hardly anyone, I was told to drive around about seven times and/or go for coffee.  I stopped my vehicle down the street near Starbucks but there wasn’t any parking.  I debated going to the Ritz for coffee and wondered how that would work.  So, I just stayed “standing” because there is no parking and was watching a street lady perched in her walker examining her hat.  It took me a while to determine it was a hat as she was plucking away at it.  There were statues in the grass land of some animals - dogs?  The hour went pretty fast as I was beginning to salivate looking at Starbucks but not risking a ticket (though I didn’t see any Police or Parking people around).  I went back to my gate and met with the Organizer.  My first impression was not the greatest.  I complained about the scheduled times, wondering why we didn’t have another place.  She said that Queens Park was having all it’s piping replaced (my area is doing all that as well).  I suggested the Water Front and she said Authors were complaining of not selling their books there (I didn’t quite believe that).  Two volunteers showed up and helped (actually did most of the work) to unload my car and escort me to my tent.  I saw my name next to another Author, only there was no room for the both of us.  So the volunteers moved my table to the East side of the tent.  It appeared that there were four tables in one tent and it appeared that the tables had shrunk and perhaps the tents too.  I am not impressed so far.  However,  I loved the location otherwise.  It was adjacent to an Ice Cream Truck.  So right now, though I had my coffee before leaving home, I am overdue for more caffeine as I continued to feel grumpy.  The volunteers were wonderful and so helpful and caring so that balanced things out somewhat.  No coffee?????????How can this happen???????

To be continued.

Had breakfast with my little buddy

 

Am going to catch up with my education hours - Retire or not? That is the question.

I didn't think I was going to be able to complete my education hours this year, because I work from home and my house is staged (which I hate).  Try living in a department store where you have to be ready to escape when people come.  I have made the lowest money ever this year because of the staging.  Also,  I haven't been able to watch movies on my big tv and have been using my mom's tiny one.  My dining room table is also in the basement and they figured out how to dismantle it.  It hasn't been fun, but that is ok because I spent most of my summer outside and entertaining in the back yard.  There has been interest in my house, but people are expecting me to put down the price which I am not prepared to do.  I have watched others do so reluctingly  because they had to and some have sold for less than they bought.  I am not prepared to do that.  I want my house back.  People can still buy it but if they are waiting - it is not going to happen.  On the 11 October, it should be the last day and then my house will be returned and I can give it a proper cleaning.  My plants are all in my writing room and they can get their space back too.  I have signed up for courses in October and will once again have more than required.  I am not 100% sure if I shall retire or not but need to be able to entertain at home and work from home if I choose and take courses and/or attend seminars.  My objective is to wait until this economy changes.  A wise woman once told me, "You don't want to sell here, move to NIagara and be in the same situation where you are not making a good profit.  You will need to set aside 100,000 to just ensure you have all expenses covered -  transfer taxes, lawyers, insurance, real estate fees et.......You won't spend 100,000 but you should have it."

As I have seen others around me sell houses here which in some cases took a year after many decreases in lowering their prices, I have learned from all.  I will have my house listed for 6 months, which was supposed to last one week.  Thank God I didn't buy anything and I recommend that you never do before selling.  Some have found themselves with two houses because they cannot sell.  I have also been surpised by how many people do not want me to move.  I don't think about it as a big deal because Niagara is so close.  It is always nice to be appreciated.  I had hoped to focus more on my writing and am stepping down from the board of the federal retirees once new people are in place.  That too should be accomplished next month.  I have not accepted new clients and preparing existing ones of my possible retirement.  This is a big decision.  This week I attended a two hour session of some history of mental health.  I had it in detail in basic psychology so I don't think I need to share anything there that would be relevant.  I will be taking another in MAID,  just in case there is new info.  Saturday and Sunday I will be selling my books at Word on The Street.  I am hoping to continue to write once my house is in order.  I am not against selling my house but not this way.  Toronto after all is my home and there is so much to do here.  It is time to re-evaluate.  Have a good week.  I still have some photos of the Botanical Gardens for you.  I will be attending a three day course on line with the American Association of Family Therapy which I would not have been able to do if I didn't take the house off the market, so I am so excited about that.  Have a good week.  If you come and visit at Word On the Street, let me know if you read my blogs and I will give you a free copy of Hey Guy Buy Me, while copies I bring last.  Thank you.  What do you think?

 

Reminder, I will be selling my books at Word on The Street this weekend (both days, all day) Come and say hello

 

silvaredigonda.myshopify.com

Kingston Day Cruise - so relaxing

 Well, I was off for another day cruise and this time it was in Kingston.  I have been to quite a few there but this was different because the boat was enclosed and they served a full meal with live music.  It was a solo singer, and the songs were old but his voice was soothing as one person remarked, "his singing, the meal, the boat ride and sun......so relaxing".  The singer was also narrator of what we were seeing.  Cottages that were once very affordable - no more.  There we were both Canadians and Americans learning how the islands were once divided.  They had an American and Canadian representative on a boat deciding which island would belong to either.  The only stipulation was that none could be divided.  That is why there is a ziggly line between us.  Imagine that happening now?  Perhaps that should be done more often.  I also recommend this cruise for visitors and perhaps spend some time to check out the city.  The food was even better than the other cruises for me as a vegetarian.  I had stuffed peppers which contained protein.  Others who had chicken and beef were pleased with their meals.  Some one asked for more bread (it was so good and fresh) but it was declined and the server took the last piece with her from our table (why would you do that?).  Aside from the missing in action bread, I had small carrots (4) and mashed potatoes (what I loved -  So good).  For some reason the photos I took of the meal has disappeared.  However I do have one of the cheese cake we got.  When they talked about the portion of the water going to New York, I suggested we go there, but was out voted.  That would have been fun.  It was a beautiful day to say bye bye to summer.

Check out the other boat, so beautiful.  I have been on that one in the past.  

Come back Jimmy

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/16wDG4rJRn/ 

Jimmy Kimmel -----Come back please.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14Ke3MJSpTu/ 

Word On the Street - Come and see me reminder https://www.silvaredigonda.myshopify.com

 

Some more pictures of the Ukraine Festival - Have a wonderful weekend world.

 

Woman had to take the province to court for getting the medical she needed in the States - She had wanted MAID and now is happy

https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.6906714 

Also why is a nurse prescribing mental health drugs????????????????

Word on The Street.................Come and say hello

 During Sat, Sun, 27/28 September, I shall be selling my books at Word on the Street. I shall be at tent #1, D zone (South East) King Street. There is supposed to be plenty of parking. I guess I shall find out. See you there!!!!!!!!!!

Poverty Report for Canada receives a D - Global News

   I was so sad hearing the Food Bank Poverty Report today on the news.  One of every four people in Canada are struggling from food insecurity.  Parents are going without food so their children can eat.  Seniors have empty cupboards and stretching a loaf of bread, for a week.  There has been a 90% growth in food banks use in five short years and it is unsustainable.    People who thought they would  never need it, now do.  How did we get into such a deplorable state?  Let's ask our politicians.  Do something about it! Now.

The Sounds of silence - nice. Animals loving.......

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FHF8K2zr3/ 

12 year old and adult kill homeless man - It is time for change in Canada. It is time for change in my home town. Enough is enough, is enough.

 Recently a 12 year old and adult were arrested for killing a man.  A hammer was used to beat the man.  They had attacked several other homeless men beating them with a hammer.   I believe it was just last week another juvenile was arrested for killing someone.  And of course our own children are being killed by gun shots.  Toronto the good?  No more.  They were all out on bail.  Then there was the pedophile outside Toronto in the Niagara area who broke into a home and violently sexually assaulted a little girl.  I believe he thought he had killed her, but didn't.  He had been convicted just three years earlier I believe for sexually assaulting a child.  In Niagara area a group protested and a noose was hanging for the pedophile.  That is not good either.  We don't need vigilantes.  In Niagara Falls, a  white supremacy group gathered upset with immigration who they believe are taking jobs.  A white supremacy group came to Toronto to cause problems and 10 people were arrested.  Come on Niagara Falls, I want to move there hoping to be relieved of crime.  We don't want to keep tourists at bay?   Keep it safe, safer than Toronto.  At a salon I go to a hair stylist told me that she has to keep her head low so children won't assault her as she comes close to the mall area.  I myself was a victim of crime in their parking lot, and another woman just a few weeks ago.  I only hear it from the  community.  Not all is reported to the police.  How bad is it really?  What is going on at schools, that is failing our youth?  What is going on in society that is failing their residents?  It is not good enough to say that Canada is better than other countries.  That too can be debated.  It is difficult when there is so many extreme views to come up with solutions.  We used to have carding which was removed because people felt they were being targeted and discriminated against.  But, it appeared to keep people safer.  We had police in the schools but some said that some felt uncomfortable.  I wonder why?  When I was a child we welcomed the police.  We respected the police.  Are there bad actors?  Of course.  They exist in every career.  How do we improve our state?  We need to examine what has worked in the past, what changed and how we can make changes to accomodate those negative results.  We need to be objective and conduct positive changes for the good of society.  This white supremacy garbage needs to be addressed and not tolerated.  It is simply hate due to prejudice. And what is prejudice?  It is pre-judging.  We need to start in grade school, through high school to teach what may not be automatic or taught at home.  We need to teach empathy and manners and the importance of recognizing each other as equals.  We need to teach the different religions objectively.  We need to identify extremists.  We need to understand the difference in political views objectively.  We need to see each other, and hate and criminal activity needs to be addressed.  Children can be tried as adults and when has this happened recently?  We had what, six girls that again killed a recently homeless man in Toronto, last few years?  What happened to them?  Not only are they protected because of their young age but they certainly didn't get the punishment for killing a man.  Home invasion is another top problem in the (GTA)  Greater Toronto Area.  Two residents were charged.  I would say that crime has gotten out of control.  We have the laws but not the judgement.  I don't think that any of the suspects had a first offence.  I believe they were all out on bail.  They don't have to be released on bail.  There is no doubt that the community is getting tired and scared.  We have people from other countries who come to Canada temporary as groups to steal and target the community.  Let's not waste time.  Let's start acting.  Now!  Let's adapt to the changes and perhaps increase penalties and attitudes to protect the innocent.  What do you think? 

A Ukraine Soldier

 There were quite a few festivals in Toronto and I had planned on visiting a few, but I went to the Ukraine Festival and kind of just stayed there.

I talked to a Ukraine in military uniform.  He said he was a volunteer but I consider him a courageous soldier.  More to come of the festival.

Remembering 9/11 - Difficult to watch video

 I cannot believe it  has been 24 years since that horrific day.  This may be difficult to watch.  It was for me.  Prayers for the souls, families and all who suffer as a consequence of that day when the free world was attacked.  I went on a four day tour to New York afterwards and photos of the missing and dead were posted on fences.  A school teacher was our guide at the site and I shall never forget his passion and suffering.

Canadian Veterans - pg 32, Sage (The Voice of Federal Retirees) plus my own voice.

"Nearly half of Veterans live with at least one disability, such as chronic pain, mental health conditions and operational stress injuries.  Wait times for claims is the top complaint.  Many Veterans continue to face hardship, including delayed treatment, financial strain and a declining quality of life.  It also needs improved transition services to support successful release.  Good intentions must be matched by concrete outcomes.  Supporting veterans must not be an afterthought to defence policy. " p 32.  

Veteran Affairs does provide mental health psychotherapy to Veterans.  However,  as a therapist I refuse to disclose confidential information especially to a physiotherapist whom is a manager.  When I told the manager she was unqualified to have any information of a client, she hung up on me and had an insurance company providing me with a form to sign that I would share information.  Of course I did no such thing.  Therefore Veterans wanting to see me have to pay my fee which is disgraceful.  Even with EAP, the one I was with for the beginning of my practice which I cannot identify (non-disclosure) had professional psychologists and social workers who served as medians.  Veteran Affairs need to have qualified Mental Health Professionals deal with both the Veterans and Therapists.   Veterans will not share all information if they know that their information will be compromised.   This is a problem for healing.  There needs to be trust in the therapist and what is disclosed.  Therapists have a duty to report if they believe the client will kill himself, cause harm to others and child abuse.  I would say a lot more work is required by Veteran Affairs and first they need to hire people who are qualified to do the job.  If someone puts in a claim for a disability, then send them to the appropriate physicians who have time to comply with their unrealistic demands.  Physicians barely have time to see their own patients than to meet the endless requests of paperwork.  I would suggest that right now there is too much incompetence and waste of time.  

What do you think?

Grandrivercruises.ca Grand River Cruise is available til 9 Oct 25. You have a month (near Burlington)

     Another trip I took this summer is the Grandriver Cruise.  I had fun at the family owned delight.  The boat's captain is a woman and she provided us with the river's history.  She explained how our Canadian natives were taken advantage of with false promises, giving them land and then taking it away.  She also explained how they helped us to win the war against the Americans.  Actually, I think it was all them.  I do recommend this day trip.  The surrounding area is beautiful and the geenery was enchanting especially after coming from Toronto.  The vegetarian meal could have been better, but those eating meat were happy.  My rice was bland, but the soup was tasty.  The best part of my meal was the bread.  We all asked for more.  They also sell it in the gift shop (cheap) but it was all gone, so I recommend you buy it in the gift shop before going anywhere else because it is that good.  This is my second trip.  The captains narrative made this the better of the two.  

grandrivercruises.ca

Working together to strengthen Families by Dr Chuang continues

 

(Bet you thought I forgot; nope)  Fathers are similar to mothers in secure attachment: sensitive, response.  Long term it is linked to Psychosocial development, emotional regulation, social competence; cognitive outcomes.  The more caregiving in a child’s life, the better.  

18% of children in 2019 up to the age of 17, experienced separation/divorce of parents.  Only 21% shared equal time of parents.  36% had regular visits, 81% - remote and 19% had no contact of one parent.  86.8% child lived with mother only.  Does effect children.  Children have a right to see their parents and extended families.  After 5 years, no contact of one parent.  After 10 years, 40% have no contact.  Of 120  (Canadian) fathers, 37% suffered verbal abuse;  33% psychological abuse, 24 % physical abuse, 7% financial abuse, 7% parental alienation, 4% other.  Final remarks -  Abuse has no boundaries.  Abuse is a human issue with long term consequences for generations.  Knowledge is power.  Concluded.

Any possible errors here would be my own and not Dr Chuang 

Books - Rick Mercer Final Report

 Well I finished reading his book among many others but his deserves some attention.  I started watching his rants which I didn't really consider rants, probably in his last year, of the Rick Mercer Report.  He seemed to travel across Canada and highlight some points of interest.  But, there was much about him that is revealed in the book, the person.  I had no idea he was supportive of the military and bashed politicians for neglecting them so.  He reported how the conservative party (Harper) went to court in a fight with Canadian Veterans.  I remember that time and was disgusted.  I won't go into details because it may be worth reading the book for you.  Rick Mercer also reveals interesting news about Air Canada being stingy.  The whole world knows that now, don't they?  It is shameful that people couldn't even afford to buy food and rent without being able to live above povery.  I don't fly but if I ever have to .....(well, I won't).  I also think it is cute when he states, "Sure, the Charter looks nice hanging on a wall, but the fact is, it grants far too many rights that are contrary to the deeply held personal views of many chubby white guys." -  so cute.  Well, if you like rants and many do nowadays, this book is worth a read and if Rick Mercer runs for politics, I will vote for him.  Why not?  We need fresh blood. 

The Difference Between Young People And Old People. John Jospeh (I think you need a laugh today - so watch this)

Regarding: We're Not a Cult - Watching this made my blood boil.

 During the weekend I watched this investigative report about two people who are causing so much harm.  I have spent most of my life helping people in one way or another, but to see two fools manipulating and hurting so many people who are suffering took the cake.  If they were in Ontario it would be easy.  They would be reported and even if their clause of having no therapists would not protect them.  However, they are in the States, but the IRS will be the first step.  Family Services should also be notified.  What they are doing is manipulating people who have gone to them for help.   First of all, children who have been sexually abused are never at fault.   Children grow up and feel responsible when they shouldn't.  Children are sexual beings and preditors know this and take advantage of this.  They are the only ones responsible.  To make such a stupid and ignorant statement to adults who have suffered sexual abuse and get paid for it, well there is a place for such people.  Degrading people and abusing them is not love.  It is demeaning and hurtful.  I couldn't believe they were convincing people to change their gender for their search for love.  Where is that sign I posted "Bang your head here."  I could not believe the harm that these two arrogant and ignorant people are causing just for money.  So, this is the advice I am going to give you today.  When you want to find help for whatever is bothering you, check out the credentials.  What do they have a degree in?  Now they have hired a PHD LCol American retired Officer.  She is not qualified.  You need to be qualified in the area you are working.  I understand that people are lonely in todays society.  I suggest you find a therapist to help you and make sure the person is registered and there is a governing party.  Get off the computer and go out and meet people.  Take a course for interest where there are actual people.  Join a support group but ensure that there are no ulterior motives.  If there is any kind of bashing look elsewhere.  Fraudsters are now charging lots of money which seems legitimate but isn't.  Any organization which discourages keeping in contact with your family - is a big red flag.  At the top of my head that is it for now.  Oh, wait.  PTSD cannot be "cured" in one session.  PTSD is a physical response to trauma.  So when you hear bozos talking nonsence please do not believe it.  Do some basic research.  Take care of yourself.  Surround your self with positive influences.  Don't confuse abuse with love.  

We’re Not a Cult: Inside Twin Flames Universe

Summer Ends with the Toronto Exhibition

💔  Here are some photos I took at the Ex.  Taking my car cost me $40.00 extra dollars and yesterday I believe it was $45.00.  Oh well, I do go every year and will continue to do so while I live in Toronto.  Afterwards, I'll have to think about it.  I won a prize for my niece and next door neighbour.  The neighbour showed up at my door yesterday with her big doggie and they gave me a small tomato in return.....so cute.  She then returned with another one.  Of course, I had to give the St Bernard his three biscuits for the day.  I missed all the shows for the ex because I usually go early to miss the crowds and now the shows don't start til 2pm.  I had seen the ice show several times and the dog shows - can't count.  The flyer is what I used to go on when I was a teen and now well it is in the museum once again - oh boy.  The oven and dress is part of the CNE museum now.  One woman sat down beside me and told me she used to have an oven like that.  Hasn't changed much, huh?  Took a few pictures before the crowd gets heavy which is usually when I leave.  The Conjuring had a Priest at the entrance.  I asked the hosts if I was going to get a heart attack going in there.  I was assured, I wouldn't since they have to make sure the kids don't.  At the entrance there was a man dressed up like a priest.  He asked if he could give me a blessing.  I declined.  He then told me he was an ordained minister.  That made it worse.  I went by my gut feeling this time.  It just seemed so wrong to me.  The Conjuring is based on a true story.  The main characters in the movie are Catholics (who are no longer alive) who used to fight the devil.  Spooky!  I will be going to see the movie.  

Oh by the way.  I did get scared inside.  It was full of mirrors and the children inside scared me as they stopped behind me.  I was trying to find my way out and got startled by them.  They looked so serious and still.  Their dad thought it was funny.  Their grandmother not so much!  Later.