Happy Halloween

It's one busy day here on this rainy Halloween morning. Of course festivities are much more rampant here in North America where Mardi gras isn't so popular. Thought I'd just leave with a wonderful pumpkin photo since I'm pressed for time today.

Official Prince Kicks Off

Tuesday will mark the official trip of Prince Charles and Camilla to the United States. The Washington Post has kept up on the happenings of the year and states the royal family is happy to have been out of the spotlight lately.

The plans for the trip this week will be relatively uneventful and probably a time for Bush to get the publics mind off of some of the current events happening in the States. Their seven day trip will be in New York, Washington and San Francisco.

I'm just interested in seeing what sort of stories the tabloids have to offer.

What's to Follow

With the time change here, I'm wondering how long it will take before we get some cooler weather. I'm not really welcoming it because I love running outdoors and this makes things a bit harder in the morning when you've got ice on the ground.

I took this picture on the 8th of November when the first snow storm of the season had hit in 2002.

The weather looked so beautiful yesterday, a bit like this. We were able to get in an awesome run yesterday which was so great. I'm not so sure Halloween will be so nice here in Canada.

Swiss Made

If something was really close to your heart, maybe you would enjoy it as much as these guys do. Three entrepreneurs from Zurich are trying to make their awareness of Swiss products a bit more International.

There's nothing new with this concept as there are many companies who are online selling Swiss products, but according to the Swiss Info report it supposedly is unique in their own way.

Basically the three guys who also have full time jobs, are trying to make available what is "unique" to Switzerland over the web and to other parts of the world. Since I was an expat in Switzerland, I can totally relate to certain items which you weren't able to get in Switzerland and had to get with one of your trips back to your home town.

Most of their orders come from the US, followed by Britain and France where there are more Swiss expats. "Many housewives with Swiss roots order products from us that they miss," adds Schefer. They definitely are selling some unique products but I certainly see a lot more unique items which they could add.

By being able to go directly to the source, this is the key to their success. Swiss Made has survived even though it has yet to make a profit but they are certain their approach will eventually pay off. It's that European way of thinking all the way.

Friday Humour

I gotta hand it to canadian expat for this one. And thought I share it because I know Ms. Mac would have a wee giggle.

Did you hear the one about the guy who had the map of Canada tattooed on his butt?

Every time he sits down, Quebec separates.

I guess my awareness that "this is such an old joke", didn't occur to me. Heck - this happens to more than just me...

Any time I can pass around a smile or a good vibe, I'm glad to pass it on. :)

Traveler's Angel

With our most recent vacation back to Switzerland this past August, we arrived in the Zurich airport confident and ready to have a great time. I certainly knew what I was doing. After all, I had been living here for 2.5 years the year before. Mr. P on the other hand, just told me he trusted me and trusted I knew what we were doing.

That day, we were meeting our friend in the Zurich Train Station under the "Angel". We thought to ourselves, where would we find an angel in the station and what would it look like. Well sure enough, just a bit after the normal "meeting place" we saw this "gigantic" angel hanging from the rafters. We were confident we had found what Mr. P's friend was talking about.

As luck would have it, I have finally discovered more information about the "traveler angel" today. Niki de Saint Phalle is the artist behind the angel. Her work was first recognized in the 1960's which could be found in cities such as Paris, New York, Brussels, Tokyo, Amsterdam, Los Angeles, Geneva, and Lucerne.

Niki's Angel was seen in inflatable versions in the 1960's in the US. Her influence comes from her French and American heritage. Sadly, much of her work was unrecognized because of her famous Swiss husband Tingley. Niki died at the age of 71 in May 2002, at the age of 71 in San Diego, California. Sadly her death was from lung disease caused by the toxic fumes inhaled while working on her beloved polyester figures.

It's great to know her spirit still live on at the Zurich Train Station.

Discovering Pixel Ads

I think it was almost 2 weeks ago when I saw a tv report about an Englishman who is supporting himself through university these days through something called pixel advertising. I'm starting to figure out what it is all about. It's definitely a catchy subject because everyone is starting to do it now.

Pixel advertising is definitely a great way to gain more popularity since the tops site are listed in the movers and shakers of Alexa. With the pixel being something that we see on our computer screen, who knows what is in store the future with this advertising medium.

Look Out Coop & Migros Here's Aldi

The supermarket chain Aldi opens its doors today near the German border. The lucky new customers will be people who live near canton Thurgau in Weinfelden and Amriswil, Altenrhein in canton St. Gallen and in canton Aargau with Gebenstorf. Since these are all smaller communities, I'm not really sure too many people will even get word of Aldi's presence in Switzerland.

Coop and Migros have now launched expanded a lower priced products in order to compete with the entering of Aldi into the Swiss Market. Pick Pay recently bought out Denner which should also prove to help with Aldi's entering into Switzerland. The most interesting part of the report is Migros and Coop 73% of the market share in Switzerland.

For now, I don't think Aldi will be too much of a threat for the Swiss Marketplace.

US Passports to Change

With all of the other new regulations with passport controls into the US, the State Department has decided to modify the US passport as well. The new passport will have an electronic identification chip, which will be embedded in the back cover of the passport.

According to the article in Washington Post, test pilots for the new passport will include government employees and diplomates. What is scary about the report is other countries (I'm assuming that means European Union Countries, Australia and New Zealand) will have to follow suit and bow down to the US orders. Does it sound like a world watch dog or what? In fact it sounds more like a dictatorship if you ask me. I'm just glad I don't have to be part of the pour soles who listen to all the bs they are told on the news daily. I think some people are actually starting to figure out how corrupt the government really is.

Head Scarves Banned In Fribourg

Because head scarves are considered religious apparel, they are now being banned in schools in Fribourg according to a report by Swiss Info. After this ban took effect, two women who were working in an after school day care, refused to follow. There have been a few cases about head scarves since 2003 as I remember. But what is special about this ban is that headscarves are accepted and can be worn on the street.

I'm seeing that Swiss people are unwilling to accept multiple nationalities into their culture. I see this because places like the UK, Canada and the US celebrate cultural differences and want to let the differences in cultures be known. Sure it's hard to accept different cultures, but accepting them is part of embrassing new cultures and learning about their lives too.

I'm sure there are certain geographic areas where the cultures are more welcomed but this has become the norm. Isn't the US known as a melting pot of many cultures. I know Canada embraces different cultures and encourages everyone to learn more about all of the cultures. In fact, the Global morning show in Vancouver is doing that this week.

Are You Using English in the Workplace

With a recent article and poll from Swiss Info, English might not be spoken as much as previously thought. They claim English might not be the official business language, but the most major flaw was which companies they polled. That answer can make a huge difference!

I've got a bit to say about this personally. For one thing, there are a lot of foreign businesses in Switzerland, so using English as a common ground language is most suitable. The main reason why English is used as the 1st business language, is because when people try to speak another language such as German, they can't understand them and would rather revert to English a language both mutually understand.

As well, most French speakers can speak English better than German because the learning curve for English is just plain easier. As well, many German speakers speak English above French. These are all from my own observations. Maybe it is not the norm, but still how I see English as the official business language.

I fell for the money $$$$

I wanted to see how much "value" my blog was really worth. It's a cool $6,209.94. So if it's worth that much, when do I get my check? ;0)

Tristan Louis is the mastermind behind this great discovery. He bases the worth on the alleged worth of every link in the blogosphere (but only the blogosphere), based on the recent multimillion deal between AOL and WeblogsInc. Pretty cool and geeky stuff if you ask me.

If you'd like to fall for it too, just follow Technorati and run your blog through this test and keep daydreaming your blog was making more money.

Autumn Leaves

I was simply dreaming about this vineyard today. With such splendor, who would blame me.

After finally seeing a bit more autumn leaves on the hills this weekend, I decided a few pics of Switzerland from October were needed.

With just a short walk from my house, I could see these wonderful autumn leaves on the hill. Amazingly I did see this in BC over the weekend, but there was still much more green covering the hills.

A 5 minute walk from the house brings you to this view. Simply amazing. I don't think there is another way to describe the area.

At 10am in the morning, this place gets very cold in the winter time. Although this was still taken in the Autumn months, the view is still unbelievable.

Enjoy Your New Life

Ok - Confused about customs.

We were getting our marriage license this weekend at the drug store of all places. Yes here in Canada you can do that. Well at the very end, the man who was helping us said the following: "Enjoy your new life". I might note he was of a different ethnic background. Maybe if he was originally from India that is what they wish new people when they get married?

If there was a floor to roll on after laughing so hard, I would have done so...

So we should enjoy our new life, as opposed to the old one we had before we paid the fee?????

Remarks anyone???

Schools Back

Well after 2 full weeks of a teachers strike here in BC, the kids are finally back at school this morning. This is such a relief as I have been too busy to really handle staying sane. With all of the wedding planning and searching I've been doing since October 1st, there has been a lot that we've accomplished. What a relieft at this point actually. I'm just relieved because I should be able to concentrate on a few of my projects I've been working on.

In other news, I missed my 7th annual alumni meet which I hear was totally exciting to say the least. Maybe this next year I can actually fly down to California to participate. It's funny to know that everyone was congradulating my brother for me getting married. I can only laugh. So now that I overslept this morning, let's hope things get off to a better start soon. :)

American's Don't Take Rivella

Rivella, the Swiss soft drink, is being pulled from the United States' market at the end of the year after a disappointing performance in a Florida food chain store. The Swiss Info Report was rather disappointing in every aspect if you ask me.

I think their marketing tactics were probably part of why the product failed in the US so far. They placed it in a specialty drink isle for healthfood at 4 times the cost as coke. And they used canned versions of the drink. Canned? Yuck it's not appealing to me either. Signs of failure are everywhere. Come on guys, if you want to break into an American market, you gotta think like Americans and not the Swiss.

How Far Should We Go With Technology

Well it's happening in Czech Republic and I'm sure it's not just happening there. Now you can watch your favorite TV show via cellular phone. I think this is just taking technology too far. Do you really need to be watching tv on a phone? What's next, the teacher catching the kids watching tv in school? Some parts of technology I think are better left alone, and this is certainly one that I don't think is needed.

Davenport Steals Swiss Crown

Lindsay Davenport has taken her 4th Swiss Open Tennis Championship in Zurich. This was the first time the tournament has taken place in Zurich since it's start 21 years ago. Her victory was over the local favorite Patty Schnyder in Zurich yesterday. With Davenports win, it definitely puts her back on the top of the overall rankings again.

Some of the highlights of the final game: Davenport defeats Schnyder 7-6, 6-3. The SFr1.7 million Swiss Open tournament is the only major WTA event in Switzerland.

Two Swiss Part of Oil-For-Food Scandal

Two Swiss Executives were accused by an independent inquiry committee in the oil for food Scandal. These executive were said to be paying secret kickbacks to Iraq in the United Nations oil-for-food program. Texas oil tycoon Oscar Wyatt was the third suspect who was arrested on Friday according to the Two Washington Post. What is shocking, according to Swiss Info, all three men may face heavy fines and up to 62 years in prison if found guilty.

Since the US probe, criminal investigations in Switzerland for a few other people who were suspected to be part of this scandal. It looks bad for both countries since under the program, Iraq was able to negotiate and mismanage more than $10 billion (SFr12.9 billion) in oil smuggling profits, according to the CIA. It's quite shocking to see numbers like that. So far it looks like more than 2,500 firms could be involved in the program.

Taking Cautious Measures With Avian Flu

With the threat of the avian flu hitting Europe, Europeans are mapping out measures to curb the spread of the disease. So far outbreaks have been seen from birds who were migrating, according to the report by Washington Post.

New steps are being taken as precautionary measures such as making sure birds are now kept indoors, just in case these migratory birds are carrying the avian flu disease. Many will have to move their birds into barns or other indoor facilities. I'm sure this will not be such as hard thing to do considering the winter weather is coming and the birds get put inside during this time already. Other birds are being put in pens.

Of course that ever popular Swiss drug Tamiflu is being stock piled. And the report from Swiss Info suggests Switzerland has already taken drastic measures to make sure the avian flu does not get into the country with a ban on poultry imports from countries that were already affected, including Turkey and Romania.

I think the main outcome is that Swiss Authorities want people to know they are prepared for the bird flu to hit and are bracing themselves just in case the bird flu would turn into highly contagious human strain of the virus.

Need a Course in Washing Clothes?

Probably not if you are female. But according to a report done by the company Bauknecht Switzerland which is a subsidiary of Whirlpool, about 80 percent of women do the laundry in their household leaving the men scratching their heads on what to do when it comes to washing the clothes.

I'm not really sure if this statistic is correct because every Swiss Guy I met, knew how to do their own wash. There is good news for those who think they need a bit of help. There is a washing course designed for participants who will learn to separate their whites from their coloureds and their delicates from their synthetics. They even go as far as teaching you how to avoid shrinkage by washing everything at the right temperature.

Maybe more of us need to take this course...

Can We Breath Easier

According to a study in Switzerland, Diesel vehicles have quite a large impact on our environment. The Transport and Environment Association, the Swiss Lung League and the trade union Unia have called for obligatory particle filters be placed on all new diesel vehicles in Switzerland.

Why such the precaution?

Up to 4,000 deaths per year are attributed to exposure to fine particles in the air from diesel exhaust fumes in Switzerland. And the vehicles produce 40% of the polution released, ever so deadly at that. I had no idea...

What's even more shocking is that with this new filter, about 95% of the emissions are reduced using these filters in diesel engines. Why didn't someone think of this earlier? I can only scratch my head and hope most countries will have to follow suit.

Be sure to check out the article in Swiss Info as there are some interesting statistics to ponder.

Vote on Your Mobile Phone

I can't believe it but it's true. The future of voting is in the hands of today's technology as Switzerland is allowing votes via mobile phones. Residents of Bulach will be using mobile phone text messages (sms) to decide speed restrictions in their town. Two other communities will have similar ballots to decide on to see if this type of voting is effective. The Federal authorities will then decide if they will be rolling out a text voting system throughout Switzerland.

According to a survey by the weekly newspaper Coopération, 57% of Swiss voters would welcome the opportunity to vote by text or by internet in future elections. I see a falacy with elderly people more than likely not knowing how to use text messaging as well as other people who just don't care to vote this way. I guess time will only tell if this type of voting will catch on. It's funny how times change.

Is Organic Milk Good As It Claims

Well that is the question a few scientists in Bern were pondering. They claimed to have been able to notice enough differences in the 8 year study that organic milk is not any better than regular milk sold in Switzerland. They go far enough to say that organic milk may have more bacteria which could bear more disease.

But what about all of the antibiotics and other vitamins which go into the cow, wouldn't they have some effect on the people?

Here's a quote from the report on Swiss Info from Organic farmers.

"Organically produced foodstuffs offer better value because the animals are treated correctly - allowed to run around and mingle with other animals - and receive the right food. An organic cow is a happy cow that is not trained for maximum milk production.

"Making a profit is not the main concern of organic farmers."

The biggest fallacy I see with the report is that the scientists fail to mention the effects milk could have on people when all of the additives and antibiotics they put into those cows. Doesn't it come out somehow in what they eat? Well for now I'll side with the organic farmers until more evidence is out to support what we know see in people today.

Sunny Weather

This morning's full moon and beautiful weather inspired me to post this pic of Montreux. Oh how I loved to watch the lake. You could somehow find a view so easily. Wishing I had those eyes again...

Did You Make Your Flight?

Making your next plane flight might not be an issue, but apparently it has been for flyers last month on Delta Airlines. The carrier had cancelled flights last month as little as two days before departure if that flight was not full. I can't imagine how I would be feeling if I were on a business trip and had to scramble to make flight changes that close to departure.

Apparently in the report by Washington Post, Delta claims to have curbed it's fuel-based flight cancellations after forums with unhappy customers started claiming they were going to use alternative carriers who were more reliable.

Customer service these days seems like a thing of the past. It seems you actually have to push the issue to really even get service which was normal 30 years ago. Pulling teeth and seeing a loss in revenues seems to be the only push to improve something that should be a given for customers. I guess time will tell if Delta sticks to it's word. I'm sure I'll keep that in mind next time I book my next flight.

Should Priests Be Celibate?

According to a report by Swiss Info, former Swiss Catholic priests were forced to step down after admitting sexual relationships with their partners. These priest have now formed a group to challenge the celibacy rules.

The Catholic Church is in a dialogue with the group, Priests in Relationships, but refuses to recognize it formally despite claims that the enforcement of celibacy is eroding the church's integrity.

I just want to know what the church has to say for omitting this rule for it's first 1200 or so years of existence. I first found out about this from an interview I watched with the son who wrote this book: Vows : The Story of a Priest, a Nun, and Their Son. Maybe they would have more to say...

Survey Says

Thought a few of you would like to try this survey predictor out.

I came across this great page which predicts your future Love life with the help of a set of advanced mathematical calculations based on the concept of human psychology. It is extremely accurate as long as you have answered the set of 15 questions honestly and seriously. This award winning website was developed by a group of renowned psychologists. Even if you're still skeptical, just go ahead and try it for yourself, after all, you have nothing to lose!

Hint: You won't regret this!

Click on the link below, and remember, be honest!

http://www.crush007.com/love.cgi?id=1129574274mjq

Sick of Your Husband?

It's interesting to know that 1/5 of Japanese are of retiring age. But that hasn't stopped One Japanese woman from letting her husband's retirement get her down.

Well at least after she figured out she was one of many woman in Japan suffering from RHS. Retired Husband syndrom happens when the ever demanding hubby makes you cook, clean and have no social life at all. I'm sure Japanese aren't the only one's that might be suffering from this syndrome.

It made me think of ms. mac's little scuffle over the weekend.(As ms. mac pointed out a totally unrelated type of scuffle.) So what about all of the other expats out there? I'm sure we have a bit of that same syndrome going around too. Maybe by reading this woman story will help you not to be a victim too.. Or at least get your husband to do a bit of cleaning from time to time.

Our Weekend

Well I think the weekend went way too fast, but when does it not. We still have a lot of preparations for the wedding and have been trying to diligently mark off a few more things on the list. I was very happy the weather cooperated for us on Saturday morning because I was going to scream if I didn't get in a really good sunny run. I guess growing up with sun for most of your life just does something to ya. We did have a great poker game night on Saturday, but really the weekend just flew by sans interesting photos...

With the teachers strike still going on, I'll have a bit different schedule again. It just makes for accomplishing things to be much more difficult. I'm also aware that my comments weren't working this morning. I hope they are back up because I can't seem to figure out what went wrong. Anyone else having trouble please let me know.

Swiss Ice Hockey Violence on a Rise

If you're an ice hockey fan, you might want to be a bit more aware of where you sit at your next ice hockey game. It appears that violence has been on the rise because trouble makers have been interfering in the Swiss Hockey games.

Here are a few measures you might want to take into consideration if you are attending a hockey game. Know the police are now using surveillance cameras and have a better security presence in the stands. Offensive chants, throwing of objects and banners no longer tolerated. It's gone one step further as hockey clubs intend to pass on fines to troublemakers.

Want To Rent a Flat?

I'm a bit conspicuous on the article I read today about renting a flat in Paris. It sounds like a good thing, but I'm not so sure it would be cheaper than just trying to stay in a hotel for a week. Maybe it's a great idea especially if you are looking to stay more than a week. I'm not so sure if this same type of thing could work in Switzerland but I know it does exist. Sure if you are keen to have that living feeling it might be fine, but really I like not having to make my bed or pick up the towels in my hotel room. I guess knowing people is the best resort to staying in a hotel, and was what we did on our last visit into Switzerland.

Swiss Lead Team for London Games

Looks like Swiss born Denis Oswald will be leading a team of 15 people for the next seven years, responsible for assisting the London organizing committee. According to the question and answer session Denis did for Swiss Info, he answers what's already different for London compared to Athens.

For those of you who don't know who Denis Oswald is (just like me). Denis was born in , born Neuchâtel and was a member of the Swiss rowing team from 1968 to 1976. He was also national champion 13 times and took part in three Olympic Games: Mexico (1968), Munich (1972) and Montreal (1976), winning one bronze medal.

Denis has been a member of the IOC since 1991 and in 2001 was appointed coordinator for the Athens Games, before being chosen for the same position for the 2012 London Games in August of 2005.

Be sure to check out the website - with all of it's new and colorful photos.

Fall Leaves in Switzerland

I was reading an article this morning from Swiss Info. When I clicked on the link, it hit me like a ton of bricks. I saw all of those lovely fall leaves on the mountain top and wished I could be in that place where that lovely picture was taken right now.

Seeing such unbelievable colors was something I never experienced until I got to Switzerland and it's something I miss so much now. I had never seen such pretty colors on a mountain top that first fall in 2002. Maybe it's because trees don't exactly exist on the mountains where I grew up. Instead they are just dry and yellow most of the year.

So I tried finding one photograph which would show a great shot of the fall colors. This is definitely a lovely photo of Lake Leman, but the beauty of the colors don't show all too well. This is the time of the year where the lake is just so incredible to look at. I've spent many days in front of the heater just in awe admiring the landscape. Who could mind with such a great view...

2005 A Record Hot Year

Looks like 2005 is on track to be the hottest year on record. Evidence of global warming is shown by the record shrinkage of the Arctic sea ice cover and unprecedented high ocean temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico.

I know that's not the only evidence to prove such theory. Here in BC we almost had no ski season at all. In Switzerland I have been told numerous stories where there used to be large lakes which froze over every winter. This is no longer the case. What sad is that even a lot of the small lakes in Switzerland no longer completely freeze over. What about all of the horrible landslides and torrential rains around the world.

There's an entire article from the Washington Post which includes what we have to do to limit carbon dioxide emissions.

Is blogging Therapy?

I have to admit that when I was asked about my blog the other day, I really didn't know what type of answer to give. I thought for a second and then said I do it to practice my writing. That wasn't far off from why I enjoy blogging but after reading the article from Washington Post about Bloggers Using Websites for Therapy, I think I could have given a bit better answer.

I know I do a lot of my writing because I enjoy it and want to improve. But blogging is something I enjoy doing because I love knowing what is going on in the world, keeping up with what is happening in Switzerland and enjoy learning about other people's lives. Sure there are many people who read your blog and who will never meet you, but you do make new relationships all from Blogging.

Blogging can keep you totally honest along with thinking a lot more before you "speak" with your writing. I think it's really hard to explain to someone who doesn't even know what a blog is. It's addicting and something that is here to stay...

Are You Effected By Lack of Sleep

As most people know, The US is fueled by people who are working too many hours and not getting enough sleep. I think it's more than just the US who is guilty of getting their fair share of fixes with their morning cup of Starbucks Coffee. According to a report put out by the Washington Post, the lack of sleep many people are getting may be more harmful than you think.

The article says their findings showed there was evidence of lack of sleep to obesity. I'm not one to jump too far to conclusions, but I do find some lack of other evidence. I'm a firm believer that if you actually supplement your body with natural foods and fruits, keep away from refined and packaged foods, much of what you see linked from lack of sleep can also be eliminated.

The article "Scientists Finding Out What Losing Sleep Does to a Body" at least brings up a few things we should make sure we are aware of.

As I found out when I lived in Switzerland, many people do enjoy the same foods and pleasures but more in moderation. Thank goodness there is always Sunday to catch up on sleep, exercise and family bonding in areas such as Switzerland and Europe. I see less of a problem in Europe because they use less packaged foods and more foods made from scratch with more organic materials.

I'd like to see scientists research go beyond just places in the US as this is a world problem and not just something happening only in the US.

International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction

We all know how many devasting events have taken place, especially with the most recent disaster in Pakistan. Today is the International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction and certainly a good thing at that with the recent devastation in Pakistan. Switzerland is internationally recognized as being ahead of the game when it comes to preparing and being ready for a natural disaster. Switzerland actually spends SFr2.5 billion ($1.95 billion) a year to insure their success. Considering their reaction to the August 2005 flooding, the Swiss are doing a pretty good job.

I guess there is always some room for improvement and that is where PLANAT comes into play. They look at gaps and ways the Swiss can improve in order to be ready for any natural disaster that gets thrown at them. An interesting read if you want to check it out and be aware of what goes into being prepared for a natural disaster.

Speaking of threats, I guess Geneva is actually on heightened alert today. Pretty scary and odd that somewhere like Switzerland would be hit with this. Let's hope this is just rumor and everything is just fine.

Wallace and Gromit

Over the weekend, I behaved long enough for Mr. P to push me into the movie theater kicking and screaming, to view The Curse of the Were-Rabbit. Mr. P is definitely a Wallace and Grommit fan so I figured I'd give in for once. Yes, I managed to actually not wobble in my seat and complied to Mr. P's wishes, just as the many other children around me did.

I seriously think grown-ups laughed as much, if not more, than the kids. And there were a lot of kids! The animated movie was intelligent, emotional, and you could actually understand the dog through his expressions!

It's definitely jam packed with movie quotes and subtle effects. And now that I think about it, I didn't even see a single little one leave their seat. It must have been THAT good then..

When it Rains it Pours

Just a few weeks ago, I was planning to have enough time to do a couple of big projects. I've since set those aside to do in due time while I concentrate on a few other events which happened to spring up into my life in the past week or so.

It's definitely pouring for me right now. So I figured why not just pour you with a few fall photos from the weekend.

I took pics on three separate occassions this weekend. I'm sure mr. p was sick of me telling him to look at such beautiful leaves. I mean I only said it every few seconds. Yes I feel sorry for him but at least he was a trooper and dealt with my fascination. The bottom two pics are from Queen Elizabeth Park where we will be getting married. So beautiful!

Swiss Hero Acquires Beech-Nut

The Swiss Company Hero has acquired the American baby food producer Beech-nut. The Swiss company is based out of Lenzberg, a city which I spent some getting to know very well. If you go by brand recognition, I'm sure you know Hero from their jams, and preserves.

Here are a few interesting facts about the newly acquired company.Beech-Nut has a 15-per-cent market share in the US. Its product portfolio counts around 180 articles. The company is based in St Louis, Missouri. It was owned by Swiss food giant Nestlé between 1979 and 1987. It's exciting news for me because I loved a lot of the Hero foods in Switzerland. If any influence is rubbed off into the north american market, I'd be happy. :)

Bugs Everywhere

My dad sent me an interesting link this morning that I thought I'd share because it's a great thing to just know. Since the seasons are starting to change, you might be getting a few more bugs in your house, as I always have. This bug website, takes a look at bugs from around the world. In particular I found a hint about how to get rid of ants to be of use. Just use peppermint oil! Check out the link for more info..

Ready to Learn EuroEngrish?

I'm not exactly sure how true any of the below is. It is at least worth a very good laugh. I can't imagine everyone speaking this way, let alone spelling this way too...

EuroEnglish

The European Commission has just announced an agreement whereby English will be the official language of the EU rather than German, which was the other possibility. As part of the negotiations, Her Majesty's Government conceded that English spelling had some room for improvement and has accepted a 5 year phase-in plan that would be known as "EuroEnglish": --

In the first year, "s" will replace the soft "c".. Sertainly, this will make the sivil sevants jump with joy. The hard "c" will be dropped in favor of the "k". This should klear up konfusion and keyboards kan have one less letter.

There will be growing publik enthusiasm in the sekond year, when the troublesome "ph" will be replaced with the "f". This will make words like "fotograf" 20% shorter.

In the 3rd year, publik akseptanse of the new spelling kan be expekted to reach the stage where more komplikated changes are possible. Governments will enkorage the removal of double letters, which have always ben a deterent to akurate speling. Also, al wil agre that the horible mes of the silent "e"'s in the language is disgraceful, and they should go away.

By the 4th yar, peopl wil be reseptiv to steps such as replasing "th" with "z" and "w" with "v". During ze fifz year, ze unesesary "o" kan be dropd from vords kontaning "ou" and similar changes vud of kors be aplid to ozer kombinations of leters.

After zis fifz yer, ve vil hav a reli sensibl riten styl. Zer vil be no mor trubls or difikultis and evrivun vil find it ezi tu understand ech ozer.

ZE DREM VIL FINALI KUM TRU!!

Submitted by "Beaufort Bob" Donnan

Haha - gotta love living in Europe...

Zytglogge Tower Celebrates 600 years

If you have ever been to Bern, the astrological zytglogge tower clock, which dates back to 1405, is one of those must see Bernese landmarks and tourist attractions. Bunches of tourists line up on the east face of the tower anxiously a few minutes before every hour to see the 16th-century clock figures come to life.

We took this picture of the tower on our August visit to Bern.

Just below the larger clock, gaze at the astrological signs of the rooster, jester and dancing bears who ring in the hour just 4 minutes before the actual time.

What is so unique for attracting tourists is you are waiting expectantly for the oldest show in town to begin.

The history of the clock tower and the intricate old clock mechanism it houses provide much more food for thought than the turning figures and chimes outside. The 1.4-ton bell is engraved with the month and year it was cast of October 1405. The clock tower has tolled every hour for the past 600 years.

If you are interested in learning more, check out the multi-language tours which take place in October at 2.30pm daily and cost SFr9 ($7) for adults and SFr4.50 for children. Special group tours can also be arranged through Bern Tourism.

Random Observations

Yesterday while we were enjoying our time off, we both noticed that maple leaves fall on the ground and keep their beautiful color. It's so nice to walk through a row of maple trees and still see that splendor of yellow and red after they have fallen.

Never go out when school children are not in school. Friday served to be of a reminder why not to go out when Vancouver School Board teachers schedule a walk out strike. We were running errands and found way too many kids with mom's who were probably forced to take the day off a a result of the one day notice of this illegal strike.

So to leave you pondering or maybe telling me Why it is the Toronto Maple Leafs when we see maple leaves in the street?

Stop Organic Fraud

As organic foods are growing increasingly more popular around the world, only in America would such an atrocity take place. According to the Organic Consumers Association, there is a "sneaky" attack taking place by Bush and Congress who are trying to put new 2006 Agriculture Appropriations Bill into effect which would lower Organic Standards and put synthetic products in organic foods.

I'm completely appalled at what Bush and the big guys are trying to sneak out all to better corporations and the FDA. The corruption is just going too far. Go mess with your own farms and not with Organic growers around the world. The American voting population needs to be aware of these happenings and stop any further corruption. You can write a note to congress here about stopping this bill from taking effect.

Mr. P pointed this out to me this morning. Knowing that he will be blogging about it too is actually a good thing. You can check out his post here. I just hope if this bill actually does take effect that it won't have an effect on the rest of the world.

For those Canadians interested go to Canadian Organic Growers. For more information in Switzerland on organic products go to Bio Suisse

Outdoor Games

One of the funniest sites I saw when I first visited Switzerland were the open-air chess games that went on during the warmer months. For an outsider, this was completely fascinating because I had never seen anything like this in North America before.

I think what is more entertaining is just seeing everyone who is around the entire game while two people play with life size pieces. I've only seen a few areas where these venues actually exist. I've come across one in the grand park in Geneva, one in Ouchy and another in Bern but that is about it. I really wonder what the obsession is about.

I guess it's a great past time for some Swiss but I've heard that its more an obsession from the Italian speaking area and beyond. Games such as bocci ball are also played to this degree. Personally I can't stand chess but maybe that's just because I never bothered to learn the game. I loved checkers and was checkers queen and that was enough.

Nobel Peace Prize Awarded

The 2005 Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded jointly to Mohamed ElBaradei and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The IAEA is the agency which in fact he also leads. The Swiss project consisting of 1000 women were a bit disappointed this time around that they did not come up as the winners of the peace prize.

Catch the full story from Swiss Info

Bundling up again

As most everyone prepares for the rainy and wintery weather, we all just seem to prepare for the worst. I'm not really sure why. I mean, isn't it great when we have lots of snow and the kids are outside playing around in it all. Or maybe its the pure fact that when there is rain and snow, there certainly will be more laundry to do, no matter how you look at it. I plain don't like it because we get less sun. I don't mind the rain and the fact that you get to take out your winter clothes.

One thing is for certain, the chairs are being brought indoors and the outdoor cafe's aren't so popular. Maybe the cheese fondue and chocolate fondue is a bit more appealing for everyone. And well, I don't have to laugh at all of the Japanese tourists eating fondue during summer time anymore. Funny how fondue is quite popular in Canada too..

I also find it weird that I in general loose weight in the winter months compared to the hot summer days. I used to look forward to winter more, but I'm not sure why I haven't so much lately. Maybe I'll get the snow bug back in me and want to be out there all the time. What fool wouldn't want to be up on the ski hill when they live about 15 minutes away. I still scratch my head and wonder why I haven't tried skiing here in Vancouver yet.

Circles of Influence

As I was in some deep thought today, I was thinking about how many influences we have around us today. Take for instance every blog you read, every good idea you get from following another persons thoughts and life, and what influences they have on your life in general. I know blogs have certainly helped me a lot in finding my way into a new habitat.

These thoughts all came to mind because of my daily habit of watching Much Music (Canadian form of MTV) at 2pm. I admit I watch it mostly because it's a change and I can just listen to the music at that time. I'm not really a fan at all, but it's good background noise and can provide a good laugh from time to time.

The hosts of the hour, Matte and Leah, are somewhat funny and even prompted me to write about this topic. You see I don't think circles of influence are as large as they portrayed them. Matte basically was saying since he knew someone that you were tied to him now that you have met him. Sorry Matte, but if you never see that person again, really I think this concept looses momentum. I know it was a good laugh at least. But it got me thinking...

In August, when we visited Switzerland, a fellow blogger met up with us for dinner. Just think if people weren't blogging, how life would change if we had not met them at all. If you were someone who dated a blogger online, your life was forever changed. If you were someone who you followed through their blog and then finally met up with them, your life was changed forever.

How odd would it be if blogging never really came into existence? I'd say there would be a lot of people who would resort to tv watching instead of browsing blogs for great reads and entertainment especially for those "at home - non working" expat types. (winks) Or those blogger meet ups in your area. At least your daily habits would completely marred if there wasn't such a writing outlet to express what is on your mind.

Top Swiss Salaries Go Public

According to a new amended law, about 300 companies listed on the Swiss stock exchange will have to disclose the salaries of individual board members and advisory councils. As similiar laws have taken effect in the US and Britain, Swiss authorities decided to these same tactics in order to introduce improved corporate governance rules.

Here are some top salaries of chairmen in Switzerland:

• UBS - Marcel Ospel – SFr21,273,000.
• Novartis - Daniel Vasella – SFr20,786,300 (also CEO).
• Credit Suisse - Walter Kielholz – SFr12 million.
• Vontobel - Peter Wagner (2004) – SFr4,800,500.
• Schindler - Alfred Schindler – SFr4,599,400 (also CEO).
  (You'd think with a name like that he'd be owner too!)
  

Geneva Second Best

As I reported yesterday about the EIU poll, Geneva is the second best place in the world to live, while Vancouver took the gold. Here are a few other interesting points that I didn't mention.

They noted Geneva's main pitfall was its weather. But I don't see it all too much different than Vancouver, since I've lived in both cities. However, Switzerland came in second as entire country for "quality of life". I'm sure they really weren't thinking about how many big macs you can get for your franc!

Cities in Switzerland, Canada, Australia and Austria are the most ideal destinations thanks to a widespread availability of goods and services, low personal risk and an effective infrastructure.

**Be sure to read the post on low personal risk as I was taken back a bit by the thoughts but it is so true and certainly does pertain to feeling secure on where you live.

Other cities to note in the city were of Switzerland's neighbours, Vienna was Austria's highest city, Frankfurt was Germany's (joint 11th), Paris was France's (joint 16th) and Milan was Italy's (joint 58th). Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, didn't get a mention.

Vancouver - The Best City to Live In..

According to a survey report by CNN today, Vancouver is the world's most desirable place to live. I guess I've come to a great place. But I do have to mention that top on the list was Zurich and Geneva Switzerland. :) The EIU survey assessed about 40 indicators in five broad categories such as stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education and infrastructure.

Brain Overload or What?

I feel like I don't know where I am or at least I don't know where the time has flown. With a combination of everything I need to be doing and "should" be doing, I guess I really need to get my to-do list straight. And to do it daily because I'll leave my head spinning a bit too much otherwise. I'll take it as brain overload for sure or the cause of the events from the weekend. :)

It's already 8:20 in the morning and really, I haven't started anything important today just yet. That's pretty bad considering how well I usually plan out my day. All I can say is that I'm looking forward to my 3 days off this weekend as we celebrate Columbus day better known as Thanksgiving day in Canada. Really I didn't understand why Canadians celebrated Thanksgiving so early but it's clearly because of the harvest season falls earlier in Canada compared to the United States due to the simple fact that Canada is further north. As well, the government proclaimed the day to be the second monday in October...

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On a Separate Note: I was watching the morning news where they were showing how to harvest Cranberries. Gretchen had a post on this the other day. Since I actually love Cranberry juice it had me glued to the tv to learn more. Ironically the photos are so close to what I just viewed too, even while it was on a tv show.

Our Weekend

I was so delighted this weekend to have an incredibly warm and sunny fall day outside. The forecast in Vancouver at first was calling for expected rain off and on all day long. Really, I love my summer months of warm weather so every chance I can get to have sunny warmer weather, it really makes me jump for joy. Well at least it makes me smile in delight.

I guess it was just the perfect setting to get engaged as well as to enjoy all of the fall leaves and what wonderful trees were all around us for this time of year.

This was our walk through Stanley Park.

Last Beer Stop Before Heaven

If you are visiting the winter resort of Davos, you might need an excuse for a detour, so why not go to the last stop before heaven. Well it's not really the last stop before heaven, but that hasn't stopped the village of Monstein from thinking that 1,627 meters above sea level isn't too far from it.

Add a bit of humor to the height elevation, install a few special kettles which compensate for water boiling at a lower temp and find a yeast that works in the thinner air and you've got a tiny mountain village equipped to make beer all year round.

You might recognize the famous area of Davos which hosts a number of international conventions, has an incredible hockey team and hosts such visitors as Prince Charles and his sons William and Harry.

Take a tour of the brewery to understand everything there is to know about malt and hops which is a must if you are in town. Take the regular bus service from Davos Platz to the tiny village of Monstein and just see what makes this tiny village of two restaurants and a hotel tick. Beer isn't the only thing they are making these days as a few specialty cheeses and breads are on their list of "must tries". The brewery is actually open all year round for visits by groups and individuals are always welcome as the village hopes to survive and prosper for years to come.

Champagne Anyone?

If you are the Zurich area, this might be of interest to you. "Long Night of the Hotel Bars"

On October 22, ten hotels will be offering a special hotel bar pass to a variety of Zurich Hotel Bars. This special hotel bar pass entitles you to free access to participating venues which I think are at least 4 or 5 hotel with bars in the Zurich area. But here's the great part, you have a limousine shuttle service included!

The goal is to enhance Zurich's nightlife. All bars range from piano bars to after-after-hour parties. Tickets cost SFr28 per person, or SFr50 for two and includes a welcome drink and hors d'oeuvres.

Basel is also attacking back with the extention of shopping opening hours from October to 8pm on Thurdays and Fridays and to 6pm on Saturdays. (In a separate blog, I read opening hours were extended to every day, so I'm not sure which is correct just yet.) It's an attempt to spice up the Christmas season earlier while gaining new customers and bringing back lost ones.

Some Exciting News

I'll have to upload a few beautiful photos from today. But I guess that's not the best news. Maybe I should rant and rave a bit more but I think the photos says it all...

To add to that - Our wedding will take place on Dec. 10th in Vancouver. It's just a small family wedding as both of us actually opted for a city hall wedding. Family wanted more so we've planned out a bit more...

Swiss Take a Hit at the Pump

Just as much as many North American's complain about the price of gas, petrol prices in Switzerland are set to rise even more. This is a result of the Kyoto protocol which aims to lower the emissions of carbon dioxide and five other greenhouse gases.

The goal is to reduce harmful CO2 emissions by 1.8 million tonnes per year between 2008 and 2012. I really don't think this will have too much affect on the reduction unless certain barriers are put in place to force people to stop using these gases.

And I certainly think the US is the one who needs to implement this procedure first. Taxing people more might have an effect if it is a bigger burden to buy gas, just as in the Provence of BC where taxes on cigarettes are up to $4 per pack. If people are offered an alternative option, reductions might occur. But I still think the alternatives are not out there to have a great enough impact just yet.