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While the rest of the city was busy wrapping up the 100th Celebration of the Calgary Stampede, I was putting the finishing touches on my son’s 5th birthday.  Like all parents say, time sure flies once you have kids.  Hard to believe that my oldest starts kindergarten this year! 

The party was a hit!  I put up party decorations, filled the goodie bags with Dollar Store gifts and ordered our Sonic The Hedgehog ice cream cake from DQ.  But what would make this 5th birthday party be a hit?  A magician of course.

I’ve blogged about this young man before, but he did such a good job, I thought he was worthy of another mention.  TriXtan from Our Next Show does home parties too.  And not just for kids, he could spice up a 40th birthday party too!  He was so great with the kids though.  He’s even inspired my son to try his own magic tricks.  (Mind you his tricks are putting his toys in his socks and pretending that they’ve disappeared… lol).  TriXtanwas interactive not only with the kids, but with the parents and grandparents too!  Plus he showed off his amazing talent of balloon art too.  He showed up with a 3 foot Sonic The Hedgehog for my son.  (Only took him an hour before coming to make it!!)  Plus the kids got what they asked for.  One child wanted Spiderman, another wanted a Lobster.  Yes, a Lobster balloon.  (That was from my youngest).  Sorry didn’t get a picture of it.  I’ll see if it’s still around.

And his tricks had you asking, “how’d he do that”.  And rolling on the floor laughing!!

So if you’re looking for something different for your party, this guy delivers.  A young man making a living entertaining others with a craft that he’s worked on for the past 10 years… and he’s in his early 20′s! 

You can also visit TriXtan with his production Our Next Show,  July 18th and 19th at Cardel Theatre in Quarry Park.  The shows you’ll see are full of magic, illusions, variety arts and inspiration!  Go to www.ournextshow.ca for more information.

Bonus code is magic.

Over the long weekend we headed to the mountains to camp at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Growing up in BC, I love being able to come back to the mountains with a short 3-4 hour drive from Calgary. (Of course the drive time depends on how many stops you have to make with two kids in tow!) This was my 4 year old 2nd or 3rd time in the mountains, and found that he gets a little nervous with the mountains so close together. Especially when you come down the hill into Radium. But once we were in the valley he was excited. And we were thrilled that we made it too, as this was only our second trip with our new trailer. But all went well. (Except the sudden slam on the breaks as a mountain sheep decided to cross the highway… oh and the black bear on the side of the hwy!)

Once we set up at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, let the fun begin!! This was a GREAT place to bring the kids AND the dog!

From mini golf, to bouncy castles to swimming in the hot springs. It’s was the perfect place for our family of 4! Plus, for the grown ups there’s some of the best golfing around!!

So if you’re wondering where to take the kids, take them on the short drive into beautiful British Columbia. From Radium, Invermere, Windermere to Fairmont, there’s so much for a family to do!! Thanks for the GREAT long weekend Fairmont Hot Springs Resort!

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Bonus Code: CAMPING

I remember the very first time I saw Jann Arden. She was singing at an intimate pub in Gas Town in Vancouver in 1993 for Music West. I remember her sitting on a stool with one foot on the floor, I guess that’s call “sit-standing”. Anyway… I had no idea who she was, but thought, this woman is FUNNY! Never mind the singing talent, she was hilarious.

Little did I know, when I moved to Calgary in 1995, that Jann Arden was from here. Since then I’ve seen Jann perform on numerous occasions. I even had the opportunity to get to know Jann better when she was on an episode of Antique Psychic (where I was the host). Again, Jann was so funny. Really she is.

Another adoring quality about Jann Arden is that she’s down to earth. There’s nothing “Hollywood” about her. She’s not demanding, she’s not a diva, she’s not rude. Well, rude in the sense that she’s not pushy. If you don’t fancy the “f” bomb, you may think she’s rude. But other than that, she’s not rude. It’s not like she says it to your face. Just in conversations. Really, who doesn’t?

Jann has one of those infectious personalities. The more she talks, the more you want to get to know her. I would LOVE to just have Jann over for an hour or two to just talk. More like, I’d listen and she’d talk. Jann I just put you on my “Bucket List” of things to do… Have lunch with Jann Arden.

Jann just released her book “Falling Backwards a memoir”. I’m only One chapter deep, but I caught myself laughing out loud. When my husband asked me what was so funny, I couldn’t really explain it. Let’s just say it involves Jann being VERY grateful for her mother when she gave birth to her. The next out burst came when Jann explains what happens to children when they play in garbage cans in the back ally. THAT you’ll have to read on your own. I’m not about to go into detail. But Jann sure does. Jann has freaked me out a bit. My 2 year old son is already showing signs of being a little Jann. I’m thankful that we don’t have Milk Man chutes in today’s day and age… for fear of my son getting his head stuck. But there are other corners and crevasses he may find. (Let’s put it this way, Jann was an “adventurous” child, and so is my son who recently put peas up his nose).

The sentimental side of Jann comes from the inspiring love she has for her parents. I found myself tearing up as she talks about the unconditional love she has for her mom and dad. Thank you Jann for sharing that. Thank you for sharing so much of your life with us. I’m looking forward to reading more. (Hope the rest is just as good as the first chapter! lol)

At the same time Jann has also released a new album “Uncover Me 2″. It features Jann interpreting songs popularized by artists including The Beach Boys, Fleetwood Mac, The Smiths, The Everly Brothers, Doris Day, Benny Goodman and Peggy Lee. So I popped my new CD into my car and had a listen. Again, showcasing her God given talent. Outstanding. Especially the Stevie Nicks song Dreams. Love Love Love that cut on this CD. So now you have two ideas for gift giving this Holiday Season. The book “Falling Backwards” and the cd “Uncover Me 2″.

Recently, I had the opportunity to meet up again with Jann for a book signing of her latest memoir. Once again, she is as down to earth as one gets. Earlier in the day she was in Edmonton for a book signing at Chapters. Then drove to Calgary. Arriving at the Deerfoot Walmart by 7pm, with a crowd of people waiting to have her sign their books. Jann told the store manager that she’ll stay until the last book is signed. After a long night of chit chat and autograph signing she was off to Vancouver to sing the national anthem for the Grey Cup game. When do you take a breath Jann?

Thank you Jann for the fun pictures, and for brightening my day. Thank you for also brightening the day of all your fans. We truly love you!

Bonus Code Jann. Expires Nov.29th at Midnight

Have you noticed an increasingly amount of men in your office sporting a new look? Facial hair! As most women will say EW… before you hate the Mo, love the idea behind it! It’s Movember! Yes it’s official! Check out the Movember Website for all the details.

Hurray for these men! During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men’s faces, in Canada and around the world. With their “Mo’s”, these men raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer. There’s a whole list of official rules and regulations on this site, and a link to donate to your favorite Tom Selleck wearing man.

Mookie and my husband with their Mo's

My husband and his comrades at work have a team going to raise the funds for this worthy cause. It’s become quite competitive in the office. Not only to see who can raise the most amount of money, but who can grow the best stash! If you feel the need to donate, here’s his link. Click here.

But it’s not just for the cause that men are growing these furry friends under their nose. Some of the men I work with are doing it “just because”. One colleague of mine suggested that it has always been a bit of a childhood dream to grow a moustache. It’s not as easy as women may think. Unless you’re a guy who has to shave twice a day, it may take the whole month for some men to grow something that will look decent.

Personally, I’m not fond of the Mo. Perhaps it’s because when I met my husband he had the clean-shaven look. And now the growth is, well, to put it nicely, EW! So how do some men pull it off? My father had one for years, but I met him like that, so I didn’t really notice it until he actually shaved it off when I was an adult. My father-in-law too. Again I didn’t notice it until he shaved it off. As for Tom Selleck, I think his “it” factor is that he has the GREAT hair to go with it!

This whole Movember has helped men bond too. I’ve seen men giving other men the high five, or a fist pound, and they don’t even know each other! It’s like they’re all truck drivers giving other truck drivers the wave!

On The Brighter Side ladies, most men will shave it off December 1st. AND it was for a good cause. Who knows, you may grow to love it. (Not this girl though)

Today is Mid Movember and Canada’s leading the global Movember movement, well ahead of Australia, where the campaign originated. Over 225,000 Canadian men are registered and have already raised over $16,000,000 so far for prostate cancer Canada. Way to go guys!!

Bonus Code for VIP’s -Mo
Expires Midnight November 16th.

I received an email from a listener hoping to help her son, who is 21 year old Cpl Taylor Lewis, who participated in last weeks Calgary Flames Remembrance Ceremony, on Nov.8th. He unfortunately lost his medal that he received for the time he spent in Afghanistan. From the game he and some friends went to Morgan’s Pub on 17th Ave. Unfortunately, they called Morgan’s and they haven’t found the medal. Having a grandfather who is a veteran, I know the importance of these medals. If you find it, or know anything about it, please contact Brenda at Brenda.lewis65@gmail.com. Here’s a picture of the medal.

Click on the picture to make it bigger.

My son just turned 2. I did a month of planning, and came up with the idea of doing a Pirate Party. With a 2 year old, I didn’t come up with a lot of activities, as 2 year olds don’t pay much attention. I did, however, come across the BEST BALLOON ARTIST EVER!! His name is Trixtan.

I met Trixtan at Montana’s Restaurant on 130th. He was going around to the tables to do balloon animals for the kids… and he blew me away making a frog for my 2 year old and a helicopter for my 4 year old. Gone are the days of balloon dogs and flowers. So I hired Trixtan for my son’s birthday. He was AWESOME! He was great with the kids, and stayed long enough to make sure every kid had their own custom made balloon. Check out the collection!

He even dressed the part of a pirate for my party! Thanks Trixtan! Here’s a link to his site. www.trixtan.com Be sure to also check out his show “Our Next Show“.

Thank you Trixtan. You are a remarkable talent!

Bonus Code: PARTY

I do have one big pet peeve at work… and that’s pens and pencils that have been chewed on. I usually keep my own stash of stationary supplies at my desk. Because, I do (occasionally) put my pen in my mouth… and don’t need someone else’s spit… ewww!

Here’s a tempting pencil for anyone who has the habit of chewing your pencil… the Matitizia Pencil by Italian Designer Cecilia Felli.

It’s not an ordinary pencil, it’s an edible pencil made from licorice root. If you like licorice, then this is for you.

Not sure if the pencil will be mass produced, or if it’s good for your teeth… better ask your dentist before you pick one up.

The inner beaver in you may not have the best teeth after chewing pencils, but there are several health benefits to Licorice Root. It’s been known to help treat stomach ulcers, it helps for respiratory illnesses. Licorice has been used by the Chinese for more than 5,000 years. Its roots have tremendous therapeutic properties. The Greeks used licorice as thirst quencher and to relieve swelling caused by water retention.

A pencil to help your habit, and a licorice to help your cravings!

Bonus code: PENCIL

When we usually go to the zoo we head straight to see the Hippo’s and Giraffes! But not this time. We thought since the Hippo’s were “unavailable” today, why not take a walk into the Canadian Wild! WOW! Why haven’t I gone in there before. Maybe I thought because I live here, I’ve seen it all.

Okay I’ve seen the Bighorn Sheep driving through the Rockies, and the Mountain Goats on my way to BC… BUT

This owl is something I’ve never seen before. The biggest, most beautiful owl I’ve ever seen! I was in reach of him, and he just posed for my camera. It was truly amazing! WOW!

Now, here’s a bird I’ve seen. Mostly along the ponds and side lakes in Alberta. The beautiful Whooping Crane.

And this magnificent bird, the Bald Eagle. They are able to live anywhere in North America where there are suitable nest trees, roosts and prey species.

And a familiar animal to Canadians, the Grizzly Bear and Black Bears! These ones at the Calgary Zoo were enjoying a lazy day in the sun.

And the cougars! Wow. Big kitty. Growing up in the Kootenays in BC you know there’s cougars in the mountains, but I’ve never been this close to one. Nice kitty.

The Calgary Zoo is a GREAT place to take the young and old. If you plan on going at least 3 times, then pick up a seasons pass. We usually get an Engage adult seasons pass, Connect gate passes for the kids, and a Connect Gate Guest pass. This way you can take a guest like your husband, grandparent, nanny with you. And it’s not specific for one person. In total for us paying for 2 adults, one child and one infant (free) it came to $170. That’s for the whole year. If you buy a one day general admission pass for the same people it’ll be $55 PLUS parking $5.00 for a total of $60.00 for the day. So your membership will pay off in 3 visits. For more information visit their website at www.calgaryzoo.org.

Bonus Code: Canadian

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Taking a good picture is an art… or so we think. This was done by a professional photographer who, yes, touched me up and told me how to stand and pose. But how do we take a normal picture and still look good… InStyle Magazine has a top 10 list of things we should do to take a great shot. Here are a few of the tips.

Fake a Tummy Tuck
Those who say the camera adds 10 pounds haven’t tried this trick: “Twist your torso, turning one shoulder toward the camera and the other away from it,” “It makes you look very slender.”

Go Natural
Hair with movement to it comes across as sexier on film, so take it easy on the styling products

Let the Camera Do the Work
“A good one doesn’t have to be complicated,” says Los Angeles celebrity photographer (and former model) Jack Guy, who swears by the Canon G series because it takes great pictures—and doesn’t require expertise.

Put Money Where Your Mouth Is
Cheese is great on pizza, but for pictures, say “money.” “The strong e sound makes the corners of your mouth go up,” says Patti Wood. “And the crinkles around your eyes make it look like a genuine smile.”

Visit InStyle for more tips!

BONUS CODE: STYLE

What an amazing performance by the cast and crew of Cirque Du Soleil “OVO”. Performing now at Stampede Park. It’s a MUST SEE SHOW. If I were to describe the show in one word it would be “BENDY”. They can certainly move their bodies into positions I never imagined.

OVO showcases bugs in awe of an egg (OVO) that appears in their dwelling. The colours are vibrant and the performers are out of this world. A top class show in our own city. There’s no bad seat in the house! The talent is exceptional!

The show reminded me a bit of the Pixar Animations “A Bug’s Life”. With circus bugs performing tight rope acts, daring trapeze stunts, and juggling fruit with their feet. (Only… OVO circus bugs are WAY more talented than the ones in “A Bug’s Life”.)

Treat yourself to a night out with Cirque Du Soleil “OVO”. You can check their website for more details. www.cirquedusoleil.com

BONUS CODE: BENDY