Month: May 2019

Map It Out

Posted on by Josef Havelka

The map you read is not the land you travel.

I realized that no matter what map you follow- there is more to explore if you look around. I have often experienced more from life by just trying to figure out where I am by using landmarks. Maps are just “guidelines” for how to get somewhere. GPS doubly so. When I use the navigation in my car to get to places I’ve been before-it’s more just to see the time when I will arrive, not the route to use.

Maps help you get from point A to point B. They’re two dimensional. Maps don’t give you information on what you will see on your journey or the people you’ll meet. Sure looking online might show a landmark or recommend a sight to see, but that’s still not the land in which you travel.

Life is similar in many ways.

You map out a goal and figure out how to achieve it. There may be stops and detours along the way that your map didn’t show you. If you stay the course, you’ll get to the destination. Or maybe your destination will change. In which case you map out a new route. Just remember to check out the land in which you travel.

There’s more to life than just reaching that destination. Explore the world.

Galaxy’s Edge Excitement

Posted on by Josef Havelka

I am such a nerd when it comes to all things Disneyland or Star Wars related. I read blogs, follow Instagrams, I even open my Twitter feed just to find the hints and rumors. I share what I find with others who are of like mindsets. The term “Fandom” doesn’t quite express my feelings or emotions dedicated to Disneyland or Star Wars.

Last night was no exception to my love of both of these. Disneyland did a live stream of their Dedication Ceremony for the new land “Galaxy’s Edge“. No- it’s not called “Star Wars Land“. I’ll always call it by it’s true name- “Galaxy’s Edge” because- die hard fan here. That being said, my excitement level seeing the footage of this new park expansion grew last night.

But…

With our commitments to our son’s Speed Skating future and our children’s education- visiting Disneyland during the first openings of Galaxy’s Edge isn’t feasible. I’m looking on the bright side, give it a few months to a year and the crowds should slim out and the kinks worked out. So when is a good time to visit Disneyland?

We usually go in October to experience Halloween time. But over the years- it has gotten tremendously busy. Again, mentioning our children’s education being important, I don’t want to take them out of school for extended periods. Our oldest is entering grade 12 in September and our youngest is entering grade 8 and starting his high school journey. The long weekend at Canadian Thanksgiving would alleviate much of a loss. But- crowds will be higher. Dilemma!

I like to plan and book vacations well in advance. 5 months ahead of time doesn’t feel like I’ve planned properly. Planning 9-12 months ahead feels more comfortable- financially as well. As much as I’m looking at hotels and deals in autumn, I’m going to postpone a Family Disney Vacation for about a year.

I think it’s about time we hit up Disney World. It’ll have Galaxy’s Edge opened and ready when we get there next August. First stop- Discover The Magic to get some personalized service from a travel agent that specializes in these sorts of things. I’m starting to get excited!

The Nothing

Posted on by Josef Havelka

Today I have nothing to write about. This nothing is turning into something as I write about nothing. I suppose I could write about “The Nothing” from “The Neverending Story”. But even that would be something.

My Nothing really isn’t anything. So I’m ending my musings by stating nothing about nothing.

Good Omens

Posted on by Josef Havelka

Back in the mid-nineties, my girlfriend’s brother gave me a book- “Good Omens” by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman. This novel introduced me to the fantastic and humorous imitations of two of my favorite authors. I became a lifelong fan.

I have kept my paperback version of the novel and over the past few months, two of my three children have read the book. Both loved it so much that they have asked me for more book recommendations. I guess dad isn’t out of touch with good writing.

I have decided to pick up the book and read through it again. There are only a handful of novels that I am willing to pick up numerous times- this is one of them. This will be my fourth or fifth time reading it. I’m looking forward to it.

I’m hoping to finish it before Friday. Amazon Prime has created the novel into a six part show. 20 Years ago, a friend of mine and I used to discuss which books we’d love to see made into films- this is one of them. I’m excited to see it finally come to fruition and hope to be satisfied with the results.

With Queen being used as the soundtrack to the ads- how could it possibly be bad?

Just Breathe

Posted on by Josef Havelka

I wish I didn’t have to use an inhaler. Unfortunately my lungs feel otherwise. I’ve suffered from asthma pretty much my entire life. I’ve had to use an inhaler since I was a young teenager, so it’s just a way of life now.

I’m lucky enough that I don’t require these inhalers regularly. Usually it’s just for “recovery” when I’m struggling to breathe. Oftentimes it’s seasonal asthma. Change of pollen counts or shifts in temperatures. I avoid perfumes and colognes as well in order to keep my attacks at bay.

I’m not sure how I got to be so lucky to have to suffer but here I am. A collection of old and new inhalers stashed in my home and cars. I don’t want to be without one just in case. Have you ever tried to breathe through a straw for hours on end? Not a pleasant experience that’s for sure.

For those out there that suffer from asthma- besides using inhalers, what else do you do to keep breathing? Let me know in the comments.

Little Donkey

Posted on by Josef Havelka

There’s a small food restaurant in Fort Langley that we enjoy eating at. So much so that our teens get excited about the prospect of having a meal there. Our kids ask quite often about going. Obviously this means the food is outstanding.

We go to a place called “Little Donkey” located just up the road from The Fort. The prices are reasonable and the burritos are huge. And tasty beyond description.

Feeding a family of five is expensive. Finding a place they can relax at and enjoy is challenging as it is. Finding delicious burritos is equally as tough. I’ve taken a few coworkers here as well now, and they’ve been impressed. So if you find yourself in Fort Langley looking for a delectable meal- check out their burritos.

You won’t be upset.

I love to promote small biz. I don’t get any “kick backs” from my blogs. I just love sharing quality service and products in hopes that those who follow me get the most out of life.

Towel Day

Posted on by Josef Havelka

“A towel, [The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy] says, is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have. Partly it has great practical value. You can wrap it around you for warmth as you bound across the cold moons of Jaglan Beta; you can lie on it on the brilliant marble-sanded beaches of Santraginus V, inhaling the heady sea vapors; you can sleep under it beneath the stars which shine so redly on the desert world of Kakrafoon; use it to sail a miniraft down the slow heavy River Moth; wet it for use in hand-to-hand-combat; wrap it round your head to ward off noxious fumes or avoid the gaze of the Ravenous Bugblatter Beast of Traal (such a mind-boggingly stupid animal, it assumes that if you can’t see it, it can’t see you); you can wave your towel in emergencies as a distress signal, and of course dry yourself off with it if it still seems to be clean enough.”

–The Hitchhiker‘s Guide to the Galaxy

“There is a theory which states that if ever anyone discovers exactly what the Universe is for and why it is here, it will instantly disappear and be replaced by something even more bizarre and inexplicable.”

“There is another theory which states that this has already happened.“

–The Restaurant at the End of The Universe

“Just believe everything I tell you, and it will all be very, very simple.”

-Life, the Universe and Everything

“There was a point to this story, but it has temporarily escaped the chronicler’s mind.“

-So Long, and Thanks For All the Fish

“Anything that happens, happens.”

“Anything that, in happening, causes something else to happen, causes something else to happen.”

“Anything that, in happening, causes itself to happen again, happens again.”

“It doesn’t necessarily do it in chronological order though.”

–Mostly Harmless

Douglas Adams was a fantastic writer of sci-fi and humor. His five novels of the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy Trilogy inspired my family’s life. That’s right, five books in the trilogy. Don’t ask, that’s part of the charm of his story telling. My wife and I were so inspired by his works that we named our first born, Random, after one of his characters. From that name sprouted her siblings names- Darwin and Theory.

As well, 42 is an important number to our family. Each of us constantly pointing it out wherever it may appear. As if the Universe is telling us something. Be it good or bad. But as life goes on, I am encouraged by two words written by Douglas Adams…

Don’t Panic

Planning Napping

Posted on by Josef Havelka

I’m not sure what it is about yesterday and today, but I am lacking any type of motivation. I just finished my two weeks of night shifts and am flipping over to day shift starting on Sunday. I slept away a good portion of Thursday and barely remember being awake. I’ve now slumped through my Friday morning and am about to take a nap.

I’ve had little to no plans for my days off this week. When that happens, naps take over my ambition. I schedule in a daytime sleep between a few chores. Not a big deal I guess because naps as an adult are the best. Plus this way I can make it through my Friday evening feeling a bit more energized.

I know I’m not the only one who loves naps. Sometimes I feel a bit guilty taking one when my wife is working and the kids are busy at school. But the feeling subsides quickly and my pillow calls to me. I have rest for just a minute…

Work Tunes

Posted on by Josef Havelka

The past few nights at work I have been playing music in my office. From my iPhone I have it connected to a small Bluetooth speaker. This small speaker that can fit in my car cup holder packs a good punch. It is far louder than I expected. A few times I had to turn it down in order to have a conversation.

Mostly I am using Amazon Music and playing a variety of “Radio Stations”. My work environment has become less stressful and more enjoyable. My coworkers have also been enjoying the change of pace. There is more comradery amongst everyone along with more productivity. This happens when everyone has a more pleasant outlook whilst listening to music they recognize.

I enjoy music tremendously. I’m rather surprised at myself that I haven’t been listening to it at work much. Perhaps it’s time to change that and keep those spirits up.

Peanut Butter

Posted on by Josef Havelka

The number one food staple in our home is peanut butter. We always have a jar of it in the cupboard. It’s the “Go To” breakfast and snack food choice. It’s great on apple slices or crackers. But mostly it goes on toast.

I put a lot of peanut butter on my bread. So much so that it usually oozing over the edges. I love peanut butter. But it has to be the super cheap stuff- not the stuff that’s organic or fresh tasting.

I want the kind of PB that will last forever in the cupboard. I want the type of peanut butter that doesn’t require refrigeration and stirring before usage. The sort of peanut butter that you can take to work and eat by the spoonful because you’re too lazy to pack a real lunch. The kind that is so smooth you’re not sure if it’s even made from peanuts.

That’s my kind of food product.

Meet My Stuffed Animal- Roger Rabbit

Posted on by Josef Havelka

Like many people who had a childhood, I owned my fair share of stuffed animal toys. To be perfectly honest, I kept most and passed them on to our children. Our middle child has kept the majority of them in her possession. She loves them tremendously as if they had lives and personalities of their own.

But the one “stuffy” I have kept to myself over the years is my Roger Rabbit.

I have had this guy in my possession since 1989. I picked him up when I was Thirteen. Yes, I was a teenager when I bought it. He was purchased on my first ever trip to Disneyland. He became a prize possession of mine. I truly love the film and all aspects of it. Even over thirty years later- the “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” holds strong in my opinion. My toy, however, has seen better days.

Roger has moved with me from house to house. Oftentimes he has been on display somewhere on a shelf or even in my bed. He is stained, worn and dirty. Seams have ripped, strings have torn off and stuffing lost. These are the war wounds of a good friend who has always been there for me. He listens when I have problems that I don’t want to share with the real world. My wife finds it odd that he suddenly appears on our bed sometimes. She says she hates him. I don’t believe her.

Roger shaped my personality at a young age. He was a mentor of sorts.

The character of Roger Rabbit was of a simple man (rabbit?) who believed in the goodness of others. Trusting of friendships and looking for a laugh to make others smile. But when he needed to be serious, he could, sort of. His flaw was always trying to please others. Literally smacking his head with a frying pan to meet their expectations.

I’m not saying I’m exactly like him anymore. But I like to think I can still be trusting and see the goodness in others. (As well as go for a cheap laugh.) These are some good qualities to possess.

The Fixin’s

Posted on by Josef Havelka

Our friends invited us out for dinner a while back. A dinner that I won’t ever forget. Chili. But chili with “The Fixin’s”

As if homemade chili wasn’t good enough, our friend took it to the next level. Now when I make chili at home it has to come with more than just a dinner roll.

Slower cooker chili is pretty basic to make. Brown some beef, add some tomatoes, beans, tomato sauce, peppers, onions, and of course spices; then let it simmer.

The Fixin’s:

  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Chives
  • Corn Chips

It’s that easy. And that amazing. So much so that my family goes for seconds almost immediately.

20 Years Ago

Posted on by Josef Havelka

My life changed 20 years ago today. Okay, maybe there was a few days leading up to today, but May 19th, 1999 is the date I recall. How do I know this date? Two words.

Jar-Jar Binks.

Yes, Star Wars Episode 1 is celebrating it’s 20th Anniversary. With it comes my memories of a previous job. Coinciding with the Star Wars debut was the opening of the 19 theater multiplex called “Colossus“. Working as a projectionist was always my dream growing up. It came true once I began my job opening weekend of this movie theater.

I spent nearly five years working at Colossus (read about it here) with many people calling me a “Lifer“. The term originally coined as a derogatory- you’ll never amount to anything– phrase. But I did become a “Lifer” because my life changed over the course of my time at the theater.

  • I lost my father
  • I met my future wife
  • I got engaged
  • I got married
  • We had a kid
  • I don’t know if any of this would’ve mattered in any other context. But for me- Colossus was a bigger part of my life than high school was. In fact I was ready to try and gather up old Coloss-hole coworkers for a reunion. But I thought better of it. Partly because it’s the long weekend. And also because I don’t know if other people feel the same as I do about our previous lives there.
  • The changes we have all been through make us who we are. Even Colossus has changed over the years.
  • So instead, I am writing this quick blog. A THANK YOU letter of sorts to everyone who made an impact on my life two decades ago. I miss you all tremendously and have fond memories of our zany antics. I hope all is well with your lives.
  • See you at the movies.

    • Chewbacca Cake

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    For my son’s birthday, I baked him a chocolate cake. Unfortunately I couldn’t find our round cake pans, so I made a bundt cake instead. When I was growing up, this was oftentimes the style of homemade cake I would receive for a birthday. There was never anything fancy about those cakes- just the fact that my father took the time to bake them himself.

    So my son ended up with a chocolate bundt cake this year. Kinda plain looking- but I did have some milk chocolate icing in the cupboard to put on top. At least then it’ll feel like a birthday cake. Sugary sweet!

    Once I finished the crumb coat, I realized that smoothing out the surface would look okay-ish. So instead I tapped the spatula on as I added more icing. The cake began to look kind of like fur. Since my son enjoys Star Wars as much as I do- I figured why not make this into a Wookiee inspired cake. But how? Off to the pantry again.

    I found some leftover mini marshmallows and some baking chocolate we had since Christmas. Chocolate and marshmallows don’t go bad, right? I heated up a small pot of water and melted the chocolate in a glass bowl. This was easy since the bowl fit perfectly on the mouth of the pot. I was able to stir the chocolate constantly and keep the moisture out with ease. Once it was a silky smooth mixture it was time to pour it out into a straight line.

    We own a long serving platter that I figured would be perfect. But the chocolate would end up not being a thin strip like I wanted. So I taped down a couple of chopsticks and lined my newly made rectangle with tinfoil. Pouring out the chocolate and placed the mini marshmallows along the edges was the perfect way to make Chewbacca’s bandolier. Into the freezer for about ten minutes and it was set.

    Not bad for a quick Star Wars themed cake. Chewy would be proud. I know I am. Bonus- my kids loved it too. But hey, it’s chocolate. All kids love chocolate.

    Soaring Gas Prices

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    Like many of my friends living in the Vancouver and surrounding areas- we are feeling the pinch of astronomically high gas prices. Current prices are anywhere from $1.55/L to $1.70L. Of course the Long Weekend is here which always sees an increase in pump prices as well. Ugh.

    My work week has me driving 110km each day- just to and from work. I also don’t live anywhere that has decent transit. I have now resorted to making a weekly trek across the border to the USA to fill up my car. After exchange rate, today I paid approximately $1.25/L. For me is about $15-$20 of savings every fill. That is a significant amount of money in the long term. After filling up this morning, my car has informed me that I can get almost 600km from this tank of gas. That gets me through the weekend and work week until I have to fill it again. I’m lucky that I only put on 40km round trip from my home to earn those savings.

    Looking at going electric in the future is definitely something to consider. Yes, I’d love to own an electric car. But I have two major issues: Nowhere to charge it at work and my home power fails in the winter regularly. That would kind of leave me stranded. So until I can figure out a more permanent resolution- punching pennies at the pump is the way to go.

    Or stop driving.

    Feel free to complain in the comments section.

    Theory Thirteen

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    Today Theory Turns Thirteen.

    Okay, enough alliteration. Our son is having another birthday. This time he is officially entering his teenage years. Over the past year I noticed something about his personality. He has been enjoying taking selfies with me.

    This has made me really happy. He enjoys trying to be like me in many ways. Which I am flattered by, but it also has made me more self conscious about my actions and behavior. Our son has started to form a sense of humor similar to mine in many ways. But he also enjoys clowning around in his own style.

    Our doofus of a son is a great kid. I hope he enjoys his day of silly antics and fun.

    Happy Birthday Theory!

    Ps. Here’s the card your mom was going to buy for you…

    Being Negative at Work

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    Like many people who have a job- I fall victim to being negative about work. Not all the time mind you- but enough that I have to stop myself from continuing my negativity. Be it comments about the job, coworkers, bosses, other companies- there is oftentimes something irritating that starts the ball rolling.

    Speaking negatively consumes everyone around. Just like school bullies being loud and obnoxious towards someone. There are some people who sit idly by and just let the rant go on. Or while others stay quiet on the sidelines, the rest join in. And the complaints get louder and more personal. Until stories or gossip fill people’s minds with a “new truth” about whatever the gripe is about.

    I want to remain positive in all aspects of my life. But it can be really tough when work can strike an ego blow. Using my blog as a way to bring forth my acknowledgment of my feelings and actions has become beneficial in my mental wellbeing. Doing something to hinder my negativity in public is the new challenge. Time to stop ranting and raving all the hatred.

    Time to chill out.

    Stopping To Admire The Flowers

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    I enjoy pausing during my day to admire nature- even if it is for the briefest of moments. It helps to put me in a state of comfort and contentment. “It’s hard to stay mad when there’s so much beauty in the world.”

    Usually I try and snap a picture. Many times I’ll share it on Instagram. Look at the beauty I just saw in nature! #sharingeverythingisee #iloveusingfilterstomakeitlookbetter

    Taking a deep breath and smiling on the inside works wonders for the mind. Seeing flowers bloom and trees grow foliage makes me happy. I’m out there watching the world go about it’s business while I’m just here for the ride.

    A ride that has many sights and sensations waiting to be savored. All I need to do is hesitate momentarily and smell the flowers.

    Back to the Grind

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    Enjoying four days off was great. Especially when my wife and I had a quick romantic night away. But like all good things (and days off) they must come to an end.

    W-O-R-K is a four letter word that kills the euphoric sensation of freedom. Trudging through that daily grind can be tough when you’re only starting day one of your workweek. But like most people- I work in order to afford what I do with my free time.

    So I take it in stride. I try and look forward to those whom I work with. This creates a joy in my personality that exudes into my work ethic- thus making my shifts go much faster. Sometimes those weekends approach faster than expected. That can affect one’s life adversely. Or a lack of future plans for your days off makes one feel as if you’ve lost some free time.

    But work is work. I’m glad to have a job that I enjoy most days. Even though I’m counting down my time to retirement, the years I have left to give shall be good ones. Filled with great coworkers and fun shifts. With each workweek ending with some time off at the end for good behavior.

    Mother’s Day 2019

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    I took my wife out of town on Friday because we needed a break. But also because I wanted to try and take her mind off of today. Today is Mother’s Day as many of you know. My wife is a spectacular mother to three amazing children. All of whom aren’t home today.

    Photo sent to us from a parent chaperone.

    This weekend our two youngest are out of town for a music trip. Which really isn’t a big deal, except for the fact that our youngest youngest is two years younger than the rest of the group.

    Our son has pushed himself to learn trumpet and violin since September 2017 when he began grade six. This past September he joined Junior Concert Band which is for grade eight and nine students. Our son and his friend are the only two grade seven kids in Concert Band. This weekend is kind of a big deal for them because the majority of the kids in the band are from Grade Nine.

    So those two are away- due home in the late afternoon/ early evening. Our oldest is working her regular job until 5:30pm so she isn’t around all day either. That meant no breakfast made for my wife like she’s had In The Past. Our children will all be home by dinner in order to celebrate Mother’s Day- but I have to work the night shift.

    Mother’s Day is a nice way to show that there is more thanks to be given to these special ladies. Especially as you get older. My wife decided to go and visit her mom for a brunch. I think that’s a nice way to show that she still cares about her. I’ll be giving my mother a call as soon as I hit the “Publish” button.

    Above all, make sure you wish those moms out there a…

    Happy Mother’s Day!

    Fancy Feasts

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    My wife and I have enjoyed a lovely overnight excursion into the city of Vancouver. We were celebrating the Anniversary of of first meeting 19 years ago. Besides just enjoying a spa escape and a wonderful hotel experience at The Wedgewood Hotel and Spa, we indulged in some extravagant meals.

    First we enjoyed a lovely tea at the spa prior to our treatment. Then we enjoyed a glass of wine back in our hotel room. The afternoon was starting off delightfully.

    Before dinner we walked around Vancouver and found a wine sampling at Sutton Place Wine Merchant. My wife and I tasted a few varieties from West Kelowna from a winery called Kalala. We picked up a bottle of white wine for our night back in the hotel room.

    We headed back to our hotel afterwards because we had a dinner reservation for 6:30pm at the Bacchus French Restaurant. They seated us in a quiet booth and we were given complimentary sparkling wine for our anniversary. We don’t normally indulge in fine dining, in fact this was really our first time ever. The waiter placing the napkins on our laps kind of fine dining. As much as we felt a bit out of place, the staff was friendly and courteous throughout the experience.

    Our meal began with Amuse Bouche followed by a half dozen Creuse Oysters. The main course for myself was Yarrow Meadows Duck Breast with Duck Sausage Terrine served with Pomme Dauphine, Asparagus, Wild Mushrooms, Leek Fondue.

    My wife enjoyed Beef Tenderloin “cooked to her perfection” served with sweet bread and broccoli purée. She asked for blue rare and that is exactly what she received.

    Dessert was a couple of soft biscottis and a fruit gelatin. The dinner was delightful in every way possible. we decided to walk around Vancouver some more before retiring to our room.

    We stumbled upon a gala event at the Nordstrom’s department store where my wife and I enjoyed some more complimentary drinks and she got her hair done. It was a fun last minute experience that cost us nothing but time.

    We returned to the hotel afterwards to find a couple of gourmet cookies awaiting us. We were also treated to complimentary chocolate covered strawberries. We shared a bottle of wine and relaxed, feeling like the upper crust.

    We didn’t think we could attend the Bacchus Restaurant again for breakfast. So we had it delivered to our room. The sun was shining as we enjoyed a meal overlooking Robson Square. A great way to end some distinguished culinary experiences.

    We may do this type of night away again in the future when we need it. For now, the memory and relaxation was worth the time and money to get away from our regular lives. Vancouver City is a beautiful place to visit- now back to our country living where we can just take it slow.

    Wedgewood Vancouver

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    A couple of days ago I told my wife we needed a night out. Originally she declined the idea. But advice from my friend saying “You should of told her- too f#%king bad. WE need a night away and will enjoy it“. That sealed the deal and I booked a hotel room. But not just any hotel room.

    I booked for my wife and I to stay in the heart of Vancouver at a Five Star Hotel called Wedgewood Hotel and Spa. Very fancy compared to our usual stays in places like the Holiday Inn Express. It’s also a bit more extravagant than our stays in Seattle at The Roosevelt. Once in a while you just have to “Treat yo’ self“.

    The navigation in my car had us stopping just outside the hotel. As soon as I stopped, the doorman came out and greeted us within seconds. He grabbed our bags and had us at the front desk introducing us to the concierge by name. He then took my car keys and off he went to park the car.

    I booked one of their more spacious rooms with a large tub and king sized bed. Our balcony overlooks Robson Street and Robson Square. Of course because this is a hotel and spa I naturally booked us in for a spa treatment. The hotel had a letter welcoming us as well as a letter confirming our spa appointment. We were encouraged to utilize the robes and slippers provided to attend our appointment. When in Rome…

    We arrived early in order to enjoy the complimentary Eucalyptus & Lemongrass Steam Room. When we arrived, they served us tea and we relaxed before our couples massage. My wife and I both requested a deep tissue rub down. Our service lasted an hour. To say we left the spa relaxed is an understatement.

    We retreated back to our hotel room and sat on our patio in our hotel robes. A glass of wine before dinner and a realization that we can’t afford to do this all the time has made it special and enjoyable. The staff here are extremely friendly and courteous. My wife and I don’t really want to leave the hotel, so chances are we will remain here and enjoy the restaurant service in the lobby.

    This is a well deserved night away.

    Fern Baby Fern

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    When we first moved into our home, I hated the ferns we had growing everywhere. In fact during the first year or so, my lawnmower found them attractive. I chopped them right down to the roots. You know what happened next? They grew back.

    I gave in and accepted that ferns are pretty dang hearty plants. I’ve even dug them up and transplanted them and they’ve thrived happily. Over a decade later, I’m satisfied with the ease at which these plants are to maintain.

    Ferns have this amazing ability to just keep living. What I do now is wait until mid spring and cut off the old or dead leaves. It’s easy to figure out because the new one stems have sprouted and are a vibrant healthy green color.

    After a quick trim- these plants look good as new. If I forget to water them, no big deal- they could live through a drought of a few weeks. Ferns grow exponentially without being trimmed as well. For us, ferns add the splash of greenery to our garden that we get to enjoy during the beautiful weather.

    Carving Up An Education

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    Our middle child entered grade nine back in September. The one thing about her is that she strives for excellence in all of her classes. A few years ago, her grade four teacher advised us that she could easily skip a grade because of her intellect. My wife and I discussed this at great lengths but came to the conclusion that as proud as we would be in pushing this, we wanted our daughter to remain amongst her peers. This proved to be the right decision socially.

    Back to the start of this school year…

    Our daughter had made her selections for classes the year prior and was looking forward to some of the possibilities that awaited her. When she found out at the start of the school year that she’d be taking a class she had zero interest in- let’s just say disappointment was prevalent. That class you may ask?

    Carving.

    Once she began the year, she took it quite well. Her ambition to maintain straight “A’s” took over the disappointment factor. So she aced the class. It didn’t surprise me. The reason being- her Opa is fantastic at working with wood.

    My wife’s father was a brick layer by trade, but enjoyed wood working and cabinetry as well. Much of our home was created and envisioned by him. Our children have been surrounded by his talents so naturally it opened up a door to their hidden abilities.

    I love seeing something made from nothing so to speak. Creating art from a piece of wood or a blank canvas makes me happy.

    Transparency

    Posted on by Josef Havelka

    Transparency. I think that word is going to become my new mantra. A way of behaving and living.

    The definition of the word is impressive in all the different ways to interpret it:

    clearness, lucidity, frankness, openness, candidness, honesty, directness, forthrightness, unreservedness, plain-spokenness, straightforwardness, ingenuousness, innocence, guilelessness, simplicity

    Transparency.