First let me mention that I spilled a soft drink on my keyboard yesterday, so this may take a little longer than normal to type, and if there is weird typos, I will try to fix them before I post. Things are ok in Vancouver, it's a big City to be all alone in but for the most part it's been good and I'm adjusting well.
This is not an official advice question, but many are asking about why I took down my earlier blog this week. Those who read it, about 45 in total, all told me that it was one of the most powerful and insightful blogs about love. But I did infringe on two people's privacy who I respect and in one case love like a sibling, so when I considered their feelings it had to go. Sorry.
So, here's what I've come up with for this Friday to help people with questions on their mind.
Stacey asks:
What are your thoughts on cheaters? Why do they do it, can they be helped?
Stacey, you're question hit me way too close to home. I have more strict guidelines about what I consider to be cheating. That includes, planning to have sex when you are in a sexual relationship. Trying to have sex when you are in a sexual relationship, and talking about having sex with someone else (ie Phone Sex) when you are in a sexual relationship. For me it doesn't even have to be a committed relationship, giving your body to somebody should only happen one situation at a time. Girls who have sex with one guy one night, then a different guy the next night, and back and forth aren't being faithful to either guy, and worse not being faithful or true to themselves.
Now, that I've set the tone to be hypocritical, I've cheated. And I feel like shit everyday to this day for it. I have committed the sin of cheating on more than one occasion. I've had sexual flings with 3 partners in the span of two weeks, which weren't intended to be one night stands, and unfortunately, ended up that way, and its something I'm not proud of. I also developed very serious feelings for a serious boyfriends, best friend (he was my best friend as well), and that was confusing. To his credit, the best friend could not have handled it better, he respected everyone involved and never allowed it to get awkward, and me and my boyfriend broke up within days of me screwing up.
I can speak from my experience that cheating occurred because I lost my self identity for a time. I failed to remember who I was, the things that defined me, and how committed I remain to being true to myself. It all happened in the span of three short months, and it was a downward spiral I was marred in, and to do it all over again, I would have removed myself from all of the situations.
So I don't hate "cheaters", I can relate to them and I hate to say I've been there. To have a healthy relationship, two people have to be committed to respecting and building with each other. I only know one person in this world who has shown an ability to forgive and accept cheating, and he's very rare, and one of a kind in so many ways. His only reason for being able to forgive cheating is he can accurately define that it's a result of a larger underlying problem, and he can focus on that. In his situation he worked his ass off to be understanding, and get to the root of the issue. Of course, a relationship needs two healthy hearts to be successful and there was no success in the end. But I believe it wasn't for a lack of his effort.
Hope it helps.
Christian weighs in:
Where will Mats Sundin end up playing? What is his delay in choosing a team?
Mats has been very aloof in what he is hoping to accomplish. If it's a Stanley Cup, he should give very serious consideration to the Montreal Canadiens. If it's money, the Vancouver Canucks offered a very inflated $10Million per for 2 years. Of course with the Canadian dollar sinking about .15-.20 cents since then, I wonder if that offer remains on the table. If it was pure comfort and where his heart is, he'd come to Toronto, and there are many rumours that Brian Burke will make that his first order of business. However, if TO was the sentimental place, Mats sure has taken his sweet ass time about it. I don't figure Philadelphia or New York into the outcome, but stranger things have happened.
Roderick has an interesting inquiry:
In many years of knowing you, I've never asked you about your viewpoint on the environment, and Global Warming. In the last Canadian and US election, an issue that would have dominated the campaigns a short year ago, was placed distantly second to the sagging economy. What do you think?
Roddy, great question my friend!!! I don't have a strong opinion on the environment unfortunately, though I realize it is a very real concern. Right now the economic crisis has negatively affected any person who relies on the Stock Market to ensure their long-term comfort. And money is always going to be a more tangible issue than the environment until such a time as Medical experts can tie the effect of Global Warming on people's everyday health.
I do believe conditions such as Asthma, Skin Cancer, Lung Cancer, and Overall Respiratory Health can and should be associated directly with studies on the environment. I wish there was more light shed on the direct correlation of Natural Disasters and the spin-off effects of Global Warming and the lack of emission control initiatives.
If and it's gigantic IF because it will have a very negative effect on the economy to regulate this, the experts can get some light shed on their studies and make a fool proof case of those relations mentioned above, I could see more of an effort to protect the environment. Otherwise, everyday dollars and cents will continue to dominate the everyday people's mind.
That's all I've got!
Comments, questions, and especially compliments should be sent to irenedellaveres@yahoo.ca or posted in the appropriate section. Have a good weekend.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
Friday, November 21, 2008
My First West Coast Blitz
It's been a very very hectic week for me, moving 5 Provinces West is not easy, although you pick up 3 hours along the way, so it's the closest thing to time-travel I will ever encounter. I appreciate all of your questions, both in the comment section, and e-mailed to me at irenedellaveres@yahoo.ca.
Not to inflate my own tires, I do this to help, and I don't research any of the questions asked. What you read is my honest advice as someone who tries to live life, see only the best in others, and bring out the best in myself.
So here goes:
Johnny Asks,
Do you watch NFL? What are your thoughts on teams that have over-achieved this year, and under-achieved? What the hell is wrong with Peyton Manning this year?
On Peyton Manning, it's a product of two major off-season surgeries. I still believe he's one of the top three QB's in the game, but he rushed his rehab to be at the helm of the Colts for the start of the season. Indy is still 6-4 and I would bet on them making the post season.
3 weeks ago I would have said the biggest over-achiever was the Buffalo Bills, but reality has set in and they are on their way to missing the playoffs. Who would have guessed the Tennessee Titans with Vince Young hurt and Kerry Collins behind pivot would be undefeated. I still believe they are a pretender, but who knows this is a story book season for the team. Other surprises, Miami, The Jets (even with Favre), Washington, Minnesota (especially with old man Gus Ferotte at the helm), Carolina (has teased being great for years, and 8-2 proves they are the real deal) and Arizona. The only contender out of the over-achievers in my books is the Titans, and mark my words they don't make it to the Conference Championship.
Under-achieving teams: Cleveland and San Diego are two teams I expected way more from. Dallas, Indy, New England, and Seattle all have justifiable injuries to excuse their performance. My pick for Superbowl Champions remains New York Giants over Pittsburg Steelers. Close game, but Giants will repeat.
To answer your question, yes I follow the NFL.
Richard from Nebraska wonders:
Hillary Clinton maybe named Secretary of State in the new Barack Obama cabinet. Do you think this is a positive move for her? Does it put her one step closer to the White House?
The Secretary of State is an International portfolio where the person who carries that Cabinet post, has to all too often mend fences that a US Government sacrifices to reach it's objectives and goals. Colin Powell's reputation was forever tarnished when he went to the United Nations with the bold statement, "We Know There is Weapons of Mass Destruction", which was later proved false and compromised his credibility Internationally.
I believe Hillary is the best Democrat for this post, and it's looking more like she will take it. As the First Lady to President Bill Clinton, she enjoyed a favorable International profile, she's more than capable of being tough, yet has an obvious softer side. She will be a huge upgrade from Condeleeza Rice. I like it.
Does it put her in line for a future Presidency. She's still very young, and a star in the Democratic party, but for her to get a shot, Obama has got to lose in 4 years. Should Obama win 2 terms, in 8 years you have to expect Joe Biden would be the Democratic Nominee, and Hillary would then be 12 years at the earliest from her shot, and that's barring any young Democrats coming up the ranks or Biden winning. So it's a step towards the job, but a lot of things have to happen for her to get her shot.
Tara challenges me:
Its clear from reading your advice that you believe in love. However, you said you have never been good at love, or lucky in love or whatever the quote was.
I have said that I'm a hopeless romantic, and yes, though I haven't found the forever kind of love I believe in true love and real love. The kind of love that songs and movies are made of.
I've had true love and like a stupid girl, or a love sick fool I sacrificed it, and that is the worst realization in the world. It's like the day you realize what you lost, the person who actually meant so much to you, has moved on and is happy without you, it really doesn't matter how great of spot you're in. Or how happy you feel in a relationship, that realization of loss sucks.
SO I always encourage people to make sure there is no love left when moving on. Matters of the heart have been known to fool the brain, and you can think you are as happy as you've ever been after losing a true love, and something happens to hit you where it hurts. And you realize you've made mistakes.
True love is the most amazing feeling. Losing true love is the worst.
So there you go, enjoy your weekends folks!
Not to inflate my own tires, I do this to help, and I don't research any of the questions asked. What you read is my honest advice as someone who tries to live life, see only the best in others, and bring out the best in myself.
So here goes:
Johnny Asks,
Do you watch NFL? What are your thoughts on teams that have over-achieved this year, and under-achieved? What the hell is wrong with Peyton Manning this year?
On Peyton Manning, it's a product of two major off-season surgeries. I still believe he's one of the top three QB's in the game, but he rushed his rehab to be at the helm of the Colts for the start of the season. Indy is still 6-4 and I would bet on them making the post season.
3 weeks ago I would have said the biggest over-achiever was the Buffalo Bills, but reality has set in and they are on their way to missing the playoffs. Who would have guessed the Tennessee Titans with Vince Young hurt and Kerry Collins behind pivot would be undefeated. I still believe they are a pretender, but who knows this is a story book season for the team. Other surprises, Miami, The Jets (even with Favre), Washington, Minnesota (especially with old man Gus Ferotte at the helm), Carolina (has teased being great for years, and 8-2 proves they are the real deal) and Arizona. The only contender out of the over-achievers in my books is the Titans, and mark my words they don't make it to the Conference Championship.
Under-achieving teams: Cleveland and San Diego are two teams I expected way more from. Dallas, Indy, New England, and Seattle all have justifiable injuries to excuse their performance. My pick for Superbowl Champions remains New York Giants over Pittsburg Steelers. Close game, but Giants will repeat.
To answer your question, yes I follow the NFL.
Richard from Nebraska wonders:
Hillary Clinton maybe named Secretary of State in the new Barack Obama cabinet. Do you think this is a positive move for her? Does it put her one step closer to the White House?
The Secretary of State is an International portfolio where the person who carries that Cabinet post, has to all too often mend fences that a US Government sacrifices to reach it's objectives and goals. Colin Powell's reputation was forever tarnished when he went to the United Nations with the bold statement, "We Know There is Weapons of Mass Destruction", which was later proved false and compromised his credibility Internationally.
I believe Hillary is the best Democrat for this post, and it's looking more like she will take it. As the First Lady to President Bill Clinton, she enjoyed a favorable International profile, she's more than capable of being tough, yet has an obvious softer side. She will be a huge upgrade from Condeleeza Rice. I like it.
Does it put her in line for a future Presidency. She's still very young, and a star in the Democratic party, but for her to get a shot, Obama has got to lose in 4 years. Should Obama win 2 terms, in 8 years you have to expect Joe Biden would be the Democratic Nominee, and Hillary would then be 12 years at the earliest from her shot, and that's barring any young Democrats coming up the ranks or Biden winning. So it's a step towards the job, but a lot of things have to happen for her to get her shot.
Tara challenges me:
Its clear from reading your advice that you believe in love. However, you said you have never been good at love, or lucky in love or whatever the quote was.
I have said that I'm a hopeless romantic, and yes, though I haven't found the forever kind of love I believe in true love and real love. The kind of love that songs and movies are made of.
I've had true love and like a stupid girl, or a love sick fool I sacrificed it, and that is the worst realization in the world. It's like the day you realize what you lost, the person who actually meant so much to you, has moved on and is happy without you, it really doesn't matter how great of spot you're in. Or how happy you feel in a relationship, that realization of loss sucks.
SO I always encourage people to make sure there is no love left when moving on. Matters of the heart have been known to fool the brain, and you can think you are as happy as you've ever been after losing a true love, and something happens to hit you where it hurts. And you realize you've made mistakes.
True love is the most amazing feeling. Losing true love is the worst.
So there you go, enjoy your weekends folks!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Major Change: IDV heads West
I alluded to this in my Friday blog, and today wanted to talk more openly about it. I have accepted a position in Vancouver and am now officially a resident of the West Coast. That means in 3 very short months I've gone from living in Toronto, moving to Montreal, contemplating a move to Winnipeg and settling on the gentle winters of Vancouver. And I've only been here a couple of days but I couldn't be happier, what a beautiful city.
This was a very agonizing decision for me, and one that I couldn't turn down either. With the recent economic downturn, my financial picture once seeming so secure, didn't seem as quite as safe of decision, to just gallivant all over the world for the entire winter. Sometimes in life you crave structure and stability over spontaneity and freedom, this was that moment.
I've also had so much going on in my personal life, that the need for something to sink my teeth into became a major priority. Montreal was only supposed to be a one month stop over, but the friends I've met there will likely have a place in my life for many years to come. The moment of clarity when you realize you can't run away from your life, your problems, your reason for existence, by travelling excessively is a moment of freedom in itself. And I hit that about 10 short days ago when I agreed to the new position in Van.
So, here I am, ready for the next challenge, which will both be a professional and personal one. I'm as hyped as I've been for a very long time, and am certain that this new challenge will be one that I will embrace, tackle and excel at in no time at all. To all my friends I thank you for your constant support, in more ways than you can ever know, I may need to lean on you all in the coming weeks.
To one very special friend, who is like a brother to me, and that means we have our little spats. I'm sorry I've been so crazy lately, it was great seeing you so happy last week. You went through hell since September, and you can put it all behind you, and show off that sweet smile again. There was absolutely no shame in what happened, and you handled it better than most, and now you can focus on only yourself and be better than you've ever been.
This was a very agonizing decision for me, and one that I couldn't turn down either. With the recent economic downturn, my financial picture once seeming so secure, didn't seem as quite as safe of decision, to just gallivant all over the world for the entire winter. Sometimes in life you crave structure and stability over spontaneity and freedom, this was that moment.
I've also had so much going on in my personal life, that the need for something to sink my teeth into became a major priority. Montreal was only supposed to be a one month stop over, but the friends I've met there will likely have a place in my life for many years to come. The moment of clarity when you realize you can't run away from your life, your problems, your reason for existence, by travelling excessively is a moment of freedom in itself. And I hit that about 10 short days ago when I agreed to the new position in Van.
So, here I am, ready for the next challenge, which will both be a professional and personal one. I'm as hyped as I've been for a very long time, and am certain that this new challenge will be one that I will embrace, tackle and excel at in no time at all. To all my friends I thank you for your constant support, in more ways than you can ever know, I may need to lean on you all in the coming weeks.
To one very special friend, who is like a brother to me, and that means we have our little spats. I'm sorry I've been so crazy lately, it was great seeing you so happy last week. You went through hell since September, and you can put it all behind you, and show off that sweet smile again. There was absolutely no shame in what happened, and you handled it better than most, and now you can focus on only yourself and be better than you've ever been.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Fridays are days to Get Blitzed!
Ok, so my blog the other day was apparently not provoking enough because nobody commented on Remembrance Day. That was something I felt pretty strongly about. I have a huge blog I'm working on for Monday or Tuesday about a major shake up in my life.
Fridays are a day where I like to offer up some advice. Many people have told me they appreciate my advice blogs, and that my advice helps them. Some have suggested that it's useless, and I don't know what I'm talking about. Apparently many people read my Friday blogs, and that's the point. Thank you for that.
Here's my advice this week. All three were legitimate blog reader questions, I actually had 5 posed to me and tried to pick the best ones. I appreciate all the questions, and the two I didn't answer in my blog I still sent a personal e-mail with an answer.
Question from Phil:
What are your thoughts on a second NHL team in Toronto? On OTR, Michael Landsberg asked Gary Bettman who side-stepped the question. Your thoughts? Would it fly?
Phil, it most definitely would fly. Toronto is the healthiest market for the NHL, and the Air Canada Centre is always full for hockey. Apparently a second team would play in a separate sports complex, and that would provide one heck of a rivalry with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment. The sports media, the sports fan, and the NHL as a whole would benefit greatly from this moving forward, so only time will tell if the NHL braintrust will work quickly to make this happen.
Question by e-mail from Audrey:
How do you forgive and forget a mistake that hurt you emotionally?
No two people are the same, Audrey, so my advice is strictly my opinion and I don't even know the severity. In any person there is the good they brought to your relationship, and there is the mistakes that hurt your relationship. That relationship can be friendship, it can be dating, and it can be a family relationship.
I believe one good virtue is worthy of 5 or 10 mistakes. I spend my whole life looking at the best in the people I know. It obviously depends on the level of mistake. The best in people should always be remembered first, it should be embraced ahead of all else. And when that is the case, forgiveness is a whole lot easier.
You will never forget the pain, and maybe you shouldn't. But the strength of any good friendship, intimate relationship or family bond is a healthy ability to forgive.
Judging by the fact you have asked that question, it's clear to me that you want to forgive and that's another vital step.
Good luck, let me know.
Question 3
Elton asks:
What is the greatest City you've ever visited, lived in or worked in?
I don't consider this to be a question of advice, but still like it just the same Elton...
The Big Apple, New York was my favorite city, no doubt. I almost moved there for work a few short months ago, it's just so Italian. Hard place not to love. It's hard nosed and resilient. The nightlife is like no other, and the pizza is worth dieing for.
Canadian City is a toss up between Winnipeg, because people are actually so friendly there, and its got character and Regina. If you've ever gone to the Queen City for a CFL football game, you'll know why. It's very Green Bay.
I've been to so many amazing places abroad, but those are my North American choices.
There you have it. Hope it helps people! Send your feedback and questions to irenedellaveres@yahoo.ca or leave it in the comment section.
Fridays are a day where I like to offer up some advice. Many people have told me they appreciate my advice blogs, and that my advice helps them. Some have suggested that it's useless, and I don't know what I'm talking about. Apparently many people read my Friday blogs, and that's the point. Thank you for that.
Here's my advice this week. All three were legitimate blog reader questions, I actually had 5 posed to me and tried to pick the best ones. I appreciate all the questions, and the two I didn't answer in my blog I still sent a personal e-mail with an answer.
Question from Phil:
What are your thoughts on a second NHL team in Toronto? On OTR, Michael Landsberg asked Gary Bettman who side-stepped the question. Your thoughts? Would it fly?
Phil, it most definitely would fly. Toronto is the healthiest market for the NHL, and the Air Canada Centre is always full for hockey. Apparently a second team would play in a separate sports complex, and that would provide one heck of a rivalry with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment. The sports media, the sports fan, and the NHL as a whole would benefit greatly from this moving forward, so only time will tell if the NHL braintrust will work quickly to make this happen.
Question by e-mail from Audrey:
How do you forgive and forget a mistake that hurt you emotionally?
No two people are the same, Audrey, so my advice is strictly my opinion and I don't even know the severity. In any person there is the good they brought to your relationship, and there is the mistakes that hurt your relationship. That relationship can be friendship, it can be dating, and it can be a family relationship.
I believe one good virtue is worthy of 5 or 10 mistakes. I spend my whole life looking at the best in the people I know. It obviously depends on the level of mistake. The best in people should always be remembered first, it should be embraced ahead of all else. And when that is the case, forgiveness is a whole lot easier.
You will never forget the pain, and maybe you shouldn't. But the strength of any good friendship, intimate relationship or family bond is a healthy ability to forgive.
Judging by the fact you have asked that question, it's clear to me that you want to forgive and that's another vital step.
Good luck, let me know.
Question 3
Elton asks:
What is the greatest City you've ever visited, lived in or worked in?
I don't consider this to be a question of advice, but still like it just the same Elton...
The Big Apple, New York was my favorite city, no doubt. I almost moved there for work a few short months ago, it's just so Italian. Hard place not to love. It's hard nosed and resilient. The nightlife is like no other, and the pizza is worth dieing for.
Canadian City is a toss up between Winnipeg, because people are actually so friendly there, and its got character and Regina. If you've ever gone to the Queen City for a CFL football game, you'll know why. It's very Green Bay.
I've been to so many amazing places abroad, but those are my North American choices.
There you have it. Hope it helps people! Send your feedback and questions to irenedellaveres@yahoo.ca or leave it in the comment section.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
A Day To Remember, Not Shop!
A major pet peeve of mine is how November 11, a day set aside to remember those who served their Country in war and peace, has become a routine day where people can shop like they can on any given Sunday. Remembrance Day has always been a day where people pause to pay tribute to those who have all to often lost their lives in service to Canada in War. I can not understand how it became a day that unofficially starts the Christmas shopping blitz.
I have lost relatives in Wars. Just because it was more than 50 years ago, doesn't make Remembrance Day any less important to me. In the last 15 years, November 11 has become just another day, minus some morning festivities where dignitaries and War Veterans pause for ceremonies. Then 2 hours later, Canada goes right back into full motion, and allows all those die hard shoppers 5 hours to get back into stores and carry on, business as usual.
I consider myself fortunate and my family to be fortunate, that we have not had to lose anyone in Afghanistan war effort, that Canada currently finds itself embroiled in. But for the hundreds of families who have lost loved ones to service in Afghanistan, how much shopping do you expect they are doing on November 11th at 3 in the afternoon? I'd guess next to none. This is their day, a day where they can stop and respect their family members contribution to worldwide peace in the name of War, and it's a day where Canada should absolutely stand-still for 24 hours and reflect on the enormous sacrifice our soldiers continue to make.
So today, I relish my time off of my usual grind, I pay my respects to Canadian who have given their life in war, but I also take a moment to recognize those who continue to make heroic efforts in the name of Peace around the world. Here's to you.
I have lost relatives in Wars. Just because it was more than 50 years ago, doesn't make Remembrance Day any less important to me. In the last 15 years, November 11 has become just another day, minus some morning festivities where dignitaries and War Veterans pause for ceremonies. Then 2 hours later, Canada goes right back into full motion, and allows all those die hard shoppers 5 hours to get back into stores and carry on, business as usual.
I consider myself fortunate and my family to be fortunate, that we have not had to lose anyone in Afghanistan war effort, that Canada currently finds itself embroiled in. But for the hundreds of families who have lost loved ones to service in Afghanistan, how much shopping do you expect they are doing on November 11th at 3 in the afternoon? I'd guess next to none. This is their day, a day where they can stop and respect their family members contribution to worldwide peace in the name of War, and it's a day where Canada should absolutely stand-still for 24 hours and reflect on the enormous sacrifice our soldiers continue to make.
So today, I relish my time off of my usual grind, I pay my respects to Canadian who have given their life in war, but I also take a moment to recognize those who continue to make heroic efforts in the name of Peace around the world. Here's to you.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Blitz Me Again!
I appreciate all the positive feedback from my blog last Friday where I opened the floor to be questioned and give my best impartial, yet non-researched advice. This week I had two strangers ask me questions, and one I had to lean on a friend to feed me one. Hopefully by next Friday, we can have all three be blog readers.
Question 1:
Broken said...
I have a question for you. If I was in a relationship and pushed away someone when I knew I loved them, to the point where I hurt them, and it got way out of hand. What steps would you take to rectify it? I messed up a lot, lied and took for granted the best thing I ever had. Please help Irene.
Hi Broken. Great question, one that hits a little bit close to home for me personally, and one that I'm sure just about any experienced person with relationships can identify with.
First off, even if the person you hurt doesn't open their heart for you to come back, and rebuild a relationship, I'm quite confident that they will open their ears and listen to you, accept your apology and even respect your accountability. And who knows maybe they will have an apology of their own for you. If you realized you took the relationship and person for granted, and that when it was good it was the "best thing you ever had" it will probably require a conscious choice to make better decisions in the future, whether that be with the person you are risk of completely losing, or the next person you have in your life.
So steps I would take: 1. Reach out to the person who seems lost. 2. Show accountability and responsibility. 3. Listen to this person's reaction and 4. Hope for the best, yet prepare for the worst. I'm a big proponent for communication and believe this can and maybe will work itself out.
Question 2:
Ryan asks:
Planning a winter vacation for my girlfriend and I. We've been together 6 months, and it's hard to know what is too much for the amount of time we've been together and what is just right. Any suggestions.
Ryan, I'm not a relationship wizard. My longest was 3 years, my shortest was 3 hours. A whole lot of variables enter into this decision, but here's what you should consider. Who is paying for the vacation? If it's all you, then it may not hurt to just plan a good weekend get away for the relationship to see where it's at. Maybe a weekend in a hotel, or a two hour drive away. If you are splitting it, perhaps fly to some place and take in the night life, maybe a concert and experience a new city together.
One of my favorite couple's vacation which was relatively early on, with a guy was renting a cabin for a weekend and just spending time together chilling and cuddling, and having a blast. It's getting close to winter, so doing too much outdoors may make that a challenge. Hope I helped, you kinda stumped me there, because I have to assume where you two are at after 6 months. I know couples that are married in that time.
Question 3:
From my best friend Mike:
Knowing that you follow the economics of sports, and are a huge Toronto Maple Leafs fan, I want to know what your expectation of the effect of the current economic crisis in North America will have on the NHL specifically, but sports in general.
Great question Mikey-boy. First it won't have even a minimal effect on Toronto or Montreal, although the Canadian dollar falling twenty cents is a major kick in the butt. Because the crisis is across North America, and I believe will remedy itself in 6 months to a year, the effect will be short-term. I'd be anxious to see what effect it will have to League revenues which have an effect on Salary Cap, and players earnings. If the Cap shrinks, how big of an accounting mess could that be? I also think it helps Jim Ballsillie in his goal of securing a Southern US franchise to relocate to Ontario, and it could help you in Winnipeg benefit in getting an NHL team. But the dollar could hurt that too.
In other sports, I don't look at a gigantic decline, the NFL still delivers rock solid TV ratings which will actually go up during an economic downturn, as more people will stay in and watch TV. Major League Baseball will not see a major impact this year, if the recession goes 3 years then it may.
Once again if you would like to pose your questions to me, send them to irenedellaveres@yahoo.ca or post them on the comment board. I appreciate all the positive feedback from you.
Question 1:
Broken said...
I have a question for you. If I was in a relationship and pushed away someone when I knew I loved them, to the point where I hurt them, and it got way out of hand. What steps would you take to rectify it? I messed up a lot, lied and took for granted the best thing I ever had. Please help Irene.
Hi Broken. Great question, one that hits a little bit close to home for me personally, and one that I'm sure just about any experienced person with relationships can identify with.
First off, even if the person you hurt doesn't open their heart for you to come back, and rebuild a relationship, I'm quite confident that they will open their ears and listen to you, accept your apology and even respect your accountability. And who knows maybe they will have an apology of their own for you. If you realized you took the relationship and person for granted, and that when it was good it was the "best thing you ever had" it will probably require a conscious choice to make better decisions in the future, whether that be with the person you are risk of completely losing, or the next person you have in your life.
So steps I would take: 1. Reach out to the person who seems lost. 2. Show accountability and responsibility. 3. Listen to this person's reaction and 4. Hope for the best, yet prepare for the worst. I'm a big proponent for communication and believe this can and maybe will work itself out.
Question 2:
Ryan asks:
Planning a winter vacation for my girlfriend and I. We've been together 6 months, and it's hard to know what is too much for the amount of time we've been together and what is just right. Any suggestions.
Ryan, I'm not a relationship wizard. My longest was 3 years, my shortest was 3 hours. A whole lot of variables enter into this decision, but here's what you should consider. Who is paying for the vacation? If it's all you, then it may not hurt to just plan a good weekend get away for the relationship to see where it's at. Maybe a weekend in a hotel, or a two hour drive away. If you are splitting it, perhaps fly to some place and take in the night life, maybe a concert and experience a new city together.
One of my favorite couple's vacation which was relatively early on, with a guy was renting a cabin for a weekend and just spending time together chilling and cuddling, and having a blast. It's getting close to winter, so doing too much outdoors may make that a challenge. Hope I helped, you kinda stumped me there, because I have to assume where you two are at after 6 months. I know couples that are married in that time.
Question 3:
From my best friend Mike:
Knowing that you follow the economics of sports, and are a huge Toronto Maple Leafs fan, I want to know what your expectation of the effect of the current economic crisis in North America will have on the NHL specifically, but sports in general.
Great question Mikey-boy. First it won't have even a minimal effect on Toronto or Montreal, although the Canadian dollar falling twenty cents is a major kick in the butt. Because the crisis is across North America, and I believe will remedy itself in 6 months to a year, the effect will be short-term. I'd be anxious to see what effect it will have to League revenues which have an effect on Salary Cap, and players earnings. If the Cap shrinks, how big of an accounting mess could that be? I also think it helps Jim Ballsillie in his goal of securing a Southern US franchise to relocate to Ontario, and it could help you in Winnipeg benefit in getting an NHL team. But the dollar could hurt that too.
In other sports, I don't look at a gigantic decline, the NFL still delivers rock solid TV ratings which will actually go up during an economic downturn, as more people will stay in and watch TV. Major League Baseball will not see a major impact this year, if the recession goes 3 years then it may.
Once again if you would like to pose your questions to me, send them to irenedellaveres@yahoo.ca or post them on the comment board. I appreciate all the positive feedback from you.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Once You Go Black...
There is a crude saying out there that suggests "Once You Go Black, You Never Go Back" and that's a reference to dating or something like that. Well today, the United States of America seems primed to elect the first ever African American President of all-time. And Barrack Obama appears ready to be the best US President since Bill Clinton, with worlds of potential to eclipse the 42nd President. Once the US elects a Black President, really there's no going back.
What a huge symbolic step this is for the American people, and eclipses much of the major milestones in US history.
I don't get to vote in the United States, though much of my family does, and much of my family is politically divided. In Canada where I do vote, I'm not loyal to one political party, and can't call myself left leaning or right wing, I'm pretty much middle of the road. If there is a major issue that gets to me, I vote that way. I pay very close attention to US politics and policies, and have been lucky to interview 2 First Lady's in my media career, so that helps promote my interest in South of the Border politics.
Throughout Primary season, I believed Barrack was a lot of amazing hype, with a great PR machine behind him, and lacked in issues and experience to Hillary Clinton. In the last 8 weeks of this campaign, I've seen a more well rounded Obama, and a man who is ready to step up and lead the world starting tomorrow morning. I'm now thoroughly convinced that Obama will have an amazing effect on world policies, economics, conflict and peace, and diplomacy. He will draw comparisons (which he already does) to John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King and Bill Clinton. And barring a shocking shift, he will be announced President of the United States later tonight.
I often hear speculation that if elected Barrack won't live to serve his term, that he will be the target of assassination attempts, that he will be weak on terrorism, that he isn't fit to lead. I guess we'll know more tomorrow morning when we awake to a new President, and a new vision for the US.
What I would expect to see in the first 6 months in office, should he in fact get elected tonight. A timeline to end "war" in Iraq. I would expect this to be a two year withdrawl, with more troops to be moved to Afghanistan (a move that should be welcomed to Canadians, and in fact could assist in smoking out Osama Bin Ladin). A major spike in the worlds economy, in 1980, Republican President Ronald Regan had a positive effect, in 1992 Democrat Bill Clinton had a similar positive influence, and in 08, the Democrat Obama will inspire similar hope and create the same results. I would also expect positive results in world diplomacy in places like Iran, and North Korea. I believe Obama will be a welcomed Diplomat, and a far cry from George Bush's cowboy ways.
So here's hoping tomorrow we wake up to a new political philosophy in the US, with many positive effects throughout the world.
What a huge symbolic step this is for the American people, and eclipses much of the major milestones in US history.
I don't get to vote in the United States, though much of my family does, and much of my family is politically divided. In Canada where I do vote, I'm not loyal to one political party, and can't call myself left leaning or right wing, I'm pretty much middle of the road. If there is a major issue that gets to me, I vote that way. I pay very close attention to US politics and policies, and have been lucky to interview 2 First Lady's in my media career, so that helps promote my interest in South of the Border politics.
Throughout Primary season, I believed Barrack was a lot of amazing hype, with a great PR machine behind him, and lacked in issues and experience to Hillary Clinton. In the last 8 weeks of this campaign, I've seen a more well rounded Obama, and a man who is ready to step up and lead the world starting tomorrow morning. I'm now thoroughly convinced that Obama will have an amazing effect on world policies, economics, conflict and peace, and diplomacy. He will draw comparisons (which he already does) to John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King and Bill Clinton. And barring a shocking shift, he will be announced President of the United States later tonight.
I often hear speculation that if elected Barrack won't live to serve his term, that he will be the target of assassination attempts, that he will be weak on terrorism, that he isn't fit to lead. I guess we'll know more tomorrow morning when we awake to a new President, and a new vision for the US.
What I would expect to see in the first 6 months in office, should he in fact get elected tonight. A timeline to end "war" in Iraq. I would expect this to be a two year withdrawl, with more troops to be moved to Afghanistan (a move that should be welcomed to Canadians, and in fact could assist in smoking out Osama Bin Ladin). A major spike in the worlds economy, in 1980, Republican President Ronald Regan had a positive effect, in 1992 Democrat Bill Clinton had a similar positive influence, and in 08, the Democrat Obama will inspire similar hope and create the same results. I would also expect positive results in world diplomacy in places like Iran, and North Korea. I believe Obama will be a welcomed Diplomat, and a far cry from George Bush's cowboy ways.
So here's hoping tomorrow we wake up to a new political philosophy in the US, with many positive effects throughout the world.
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