Valerie's Variety Podcast: Recent Episodes
Valerie Moss | Valerie's Variety Podcast
This show is about EAT | READ | CREATE and how these three things influence us everyday and the people that make this happen, isn’t it you?
As a podcaster I am always searching for a great story, I was galavanting through an antique store and found this book by Margaret Echard, based on a true story about her family, set in the 40s – the book, smelled good, it felt like it was SOMETHING more than paper and ink and it’s green hard cover texture. A collection of juicy secrets and skin tingling worthy words, a collection of mystery, deceit and intrigue. A good story has to have LOVE and DEATH (did you know this) I bought this book and within the cover there was an insignia ______
I tell stories for Audible as a side hustle, I know how to produce my voice for satiable listening ears..or so I’ve been told. I’m a project manager by day. I like the challenge of putting things together in a consolidated view, playing with files, organizing, planning, keeping people motivated. It’s the process I love.
My CAST knows the vibe I give, “please don’t give up on me now…”
I read the book, cover to cover, did some investigating on the people, places and history of the author and the book itself. I could only find one, 1 person who left a review about this book and he, it turns out is Canadian, and an actor…my idea was forming.
What if I made this book into an audio drama? What if I got a bunch of people who use their voice(s) to tell stories like podcasters and voice over artists, and actors…what if I did this?
Lots of ideas begin to ruminate, I carried the book with me, wrote copious amounts of notes, picked apart all of my favourite podcasts for their best tricks and tips and included those and some of my own from my over 100 episodes.
Lots of sleepless nights, late nights & early mornings.
I put out my feelers…leaned on my community of voice artists and the excitement was contagious which was sort of inline with the covid pandemic feel, a sense of connection to the world going through the pandemic together, ALONE, isolated.
We recorded this all REMOTE in our own homes, ALONE, I collected these clips and files, processed, processed some more, spliced, added music, mixed and mastered for hours, and days and minutes…
I asked for more from my CAST of 25, can you add this line, can someone play this on the piano, I had people drop out, other CASTs friends wanted to join, and their moms and their kid’s are involved, roommates, wife and husbands, friends of friends, even my husband got in on it when I needed titles read, miscellaneous lines added here and there.
It has to stay a secret, only this ^^ one guy knows the truth, the book name
Welcome to ProjectDF, it’s a mystery, it’s a side project that I am so proud of, it’s a collection of amazing talent from across this country of Canada, across the United States of America as well as into Australia..the talent runs far and wide.
If you’re still reading by this point, thank you for your support, thank you for listening and sharing and leaving comments. Thank you to Kylee and Rafe and London as my main characters who didn’t give up well over a year into this – it all paused, but they stuck with it and came through for me, for this…Project DF Podcast.
episode 117 season 3
Today I welcome to the show Tamira Ci Thayne, author, animal activist, book designer, and founder and former CEO of Dogs Deserve Better. She reached out to me to produce an audiobook, Reboot Ranch by Eileen Watkins and I just fell in love with Tamira’s purpose - to inspire, assist and entertain animal lovers, activist and rescuers in your fight for the animals. She fits perfectly into my theme of READ and CREATE. Think Books for Animal Lovers, think books that tug on your heart strings and you want to learn more about rescue operations, slaughter houses, adoption and donating. Welcome to the show Tamira!
QUESTIONS I'M DYING TO KNOW ABOUT TAMIRA
First break: How did you get into this, how did the name come about, Who Chains You? What happened that changed you?
Second Break: How did you get a passion for saving animals? Younger?
Third Break: What was the start of the book…after Dogs Deserve Better?
Fourth Break: What would be your ideal, infrastructure to get your business where you want it?
Fifth Break: Do you read all of the books you publish? Whats the Criteria?
Sixth Break: Do you have a favourite book in your repertoire?
Seventh Break: The Olympic Animal Sanctuary, true story?
Eighth Break: It went to the Dogs, Tamira’s Book
Ninth Break: Eileen Watkins book Reboot Ranch (insert retail clip)
Tenth Break: Her platform for people to tell their stories?
Eleventh Break: List off some of the more unique stories about animals in your publishing house? Snails, Hermit Crabs, Sloth Bears (dancing bears)
Twelth Break: A book that has done so well, unexpectedly, think rats!
Thirteenth Break: How do you read these books, does it take a toll?
Fourteenth Break: Starfish Story..
Fifteenth Break: Who’s your audience?
Sixteenth Break: The books that Tamira writes..
Eighteenth Break: The people who harm animals…
Nineteeth Break: A personal story about turtles that has impacted me..
Twentietth Break: One piece of advice for helping animals and rescue shelters..
Twenty Onth Break: Tamira asks me…
Twenty Second Break: What’s next for Tamira. & What is a Piegon Shoot?
Twenty Third Break: Coronavirus Impact..
Season Three - video cover art
Follow Tamira & Who Chains You
Website @ Who Chains You
Instagram @Freedom Chaser Books
Facebook @Freedom Chaser Books
Twitter @Freedom Chaser Books
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode 116 season 3
Gotta Learn Beyond Yourself
Hey everyone it’s Valerie here today I have a guest that I follow on IG she has a create catchy handle of a name - she plays with textures, paper, sews and does it to pleasure and for her own therapy, guest is Val from ValLoves2Create from Ig. think of breaking the rules when it comes to building up a project. Think of the pressures of being a mom and the heartache and love we go through all day every day with this being we’ve brought into the world. Val has this disposition of a favourite teacher that would make you believe you can do anything. Well that’s because she was a teacher, and likely has something to do with having 3 brothers. I hope you feel inspired after this episode and take the time to Check out Val’s IG. We also have a giveaway, one of Vans incredible journals… enjoy the show! We also have a giveaway. Oh my gosh it’s so beautiful.
Our down to earth chat and what we covered:
Welcoming Val to the show…Tell me about your art form…Did your background in teaching feed this passion…Val or Valerie or Annie or ‘Berge’Pick a photo…tissue paper, magazine pages, cardboard, stitching, fabric and I can go on…Journal do you use photos?do you have a favouriteDo you have a favourite time of day…Is this scrapbooking?What’s your best tipIt’s cold here Florida vs JerseyWho were you named after?Do you post on IG daily?Other hobbies, umm yepFavourite books
Season Three - video cover art
Follow ValLoves2Create
Instagram @ValLoves2Create
YouTube @Val Vaganek
Her Giveaway...just leave a note, comment, hello, whatever you feel inspired to say after the episode:
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
episode 115 season 3
What Does it Mean to be Human?
Today’s show we are welcoming Brandi Fleck from the Human Amplified Podcast where I have been a guest on her show and I have also wrote under a pen name an article for her blog. Brandi has a journalism background, she’ve overcome childhood abuse in a variety of forms and her mission is to seek out the good in humans, what being human means on an amplified level. So settle in for this wholesome interview with this gal from Tennessee and how she has learnt and continues to learn about us as the human race, it’s her mission!
The Questions we Delve into:
Why the Name change from On Being Human to Human Amplified?When you decided on your artwork?When you commit to your Socials?Popular and Favourite Episodes?Tell us about the shooting in Nashville?That Guest has has permeated your soul?A Bombing?
Season Three - video cover art
Follow Brandi
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @Human Aplified
Facebook @ Human Amplified
YouTube @Human Amplified
Pinterest @Human Amplified
Twitter @Human Amplified
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode 114 season 3
Her Worth comes from Within
Todays guest is RonaLafae also known as hoot, she shares the behind the scenes stories about her book that your’s truly narrated. This book is full of murder and forgiveness, it’s full of love and hate along with healing all from her near death experience memoire..enjoy the episode. London also sits with Rona and asks questions about spirits and ghost about Rona’s book and London’s own experiences…so stay tuned and you’ll never guess who’s house Rona was married…and you’ll get a sneak peak into chapter 1 in it’s entirety at the end of the episode, so stay turned!
Describe the Cover…near death experienceWhat inspired you to write about this experience…Rona’s psychic Grandmother was ‘her happy place’ What was my biggest takeaway, the discovery of the grandma being dead…Tell me about the most difficult story that she needed to tell…and Rona’s advice…looking for death but she found lifeThe boys camp this lodge full of throwaway teenagers…the firewalkWhat have you learnt most about yourself after writing this book..Locking Horns…Grandfathers…charted destiniesTalk about the man you saved - vision quest…chills, scared and nervousThe Halloween Party that changed everything, 24 hours later…My favourite story, ‘she’s a hot dish’ A survivor of Mt Saint Helens and the loss of her 1st crush..So…what’s next for your Rona, a movie….professional, and personal goalsPinkie was her pig, and her best friend
Maybe the next time you’re thinking about a lost friend or relative you’ll see something that makes you take pause, according to Rona that is not by accident, it’s on purpose. After completing her memoire she did do a reading for me, this was over the phone, and I did send her a list of questions and people that I was curious about so she could meditate on them. I asked about my husbands health, my friend Kristi and here’s a few things she said…
my husbands health is actually better than it’s ever been, he’s actually younger inside now then he has been, and if you’ve been listening to my show for the last few years you’ll remember my husband had heart surgery and he’s is incredible health nowMy mom…this infamous mother I discuss sometimes…one thing my mom has said for over 20 years is that she’s an orphan, My mom was never an orphan, she did however lose her mom when she was 16 and her dad when she was 40 but grew up in a home with all 5 kids and 2 parents…Rona used this word when describing my mom…which was very validating.My friend Kristi…this is a friend that I lost a few years ago, she was a dear friend of mine, you know that easy convenient friend that just clicks and works, Rona said she’s around me sometime, when I see a flicker out of the corner of my eye when I’m working in my studio…this happens ALOT
I could go on about this reading as it was very impactful, she spoke alot about my voice over work, and to encourage me to continue to, try everything that comes my way - but don’t spend money on it just do it as I love to do it…
Here comes London convo with RonaLafae as well as Education of Hoot and chapter 1 in it’s entirety. The music for this episode is called Tackle Box Blues in memory of Rona’s Mom and her love for working with her dad at the gas station…you’ll have to read or listen to the book to find out why this is so important…
As I come closer to the end of this season, I’m looking for ideas for next season, and a co-host, if you’re thinking of starting a podcast and have some great ideas for a theme, let me know, reach out to me.
Coming up before the season ends we meet Tamira Thayne from Who Chains you Publications and he love to rescuing and bringing attention to all things around animal rescue…
An another Valerie who goes by Val and her hand is ValLovestoCreate - she a player of paper to process life…
Also Brandi Fleck and incredibly passionate podcaster who tells stories about humans and their acts being amplified…
episode 113 season 3
It Made a Difference to that One
Hey everyone it’s Valerie here, today’s guest Eileen Watkins is incredible. She’s poised, genuine and all class. She rides horses every week and has written a book about her life around horses, that I had the privilege to narrate and produce for her through Who Chains You Publications. Eileen and I get right personal about this book, the characters and best of all the horses, and they are rescues.
This book/ episode is full of horse knowledge where the characters are from and how true the stories really are. She has a love for horses on many levels and is very educated on breeds, their personality traits and the hidden underground world. We also get into her next chapter lol and her cozy mysteries series. And this series is about a cat groomer.
Just a side note this was recorded early in 2021 over video Eileen in Jersey and me, in Calgary.
Also I just need to mention that some of the topics discussed are about the less positive side to the horse rescue world like PMU Farms around the middle and slaughter houses is discussed towards the end. It’s graphic and definitely eye opening and sad.
Sooo your love for horses...So let’s set the stage for the book...Let’s talk about some of the verbiage...One thing Eileen does…Josh and his horse whisperer...Patches and Murphy...Is there anything you left out that would have included now?Where can people find you and what’s next?Humour and People, finding connection... Slaughter Houses…we went there...Here’s where the stories for Reboot Ranch came fromOff the recordValentine how can you not lover her and love how the horses communicate non verbally all the time.
Season Three - video cover art
So those of you who are new to my show, thx for listening you got a pretty great interview with an incredible author and writer from New Jersey. genuine take of my personality and Eileen’s to and our sensitive sides. The star fish story is told twice in the book and both times makes me tear up. Because we were on video I too saw Eileen’s soft side come through when speaking about her beloved Brenda her horse and The character Valentine the horse in the book ‘that everyone loves’ is portrayed after.Eileen is always trying to include humane practice anecdotes throughout her book to just make people aware about animals treatment. And working towards a common cause - rescuing one horse at a time.
After 35 years in journalism isn’t that a feat in and of itself. She’s been a writer for many years…and was approached to write cozy mysteries series - what a flattering compliment.
Before we close I’d like to say thank you to Eileen, I just love how pragmatic she is, truly grounded and just so articulate with her answers - having a writing background and getting to play with words all day helps! We have a connection now and I sure hope you enjoyed today’s interview.
Tomorrow’s show, we will play chapter one in it’s entirety so you get a glimpse of the book I fell in love with.
Links to Reboot Ranch and all her books and where you are can find her are in my show notes.
As we start to wrap up this season I still have a few shows coming up with people that will make you take pause. you’re going to meet Tamira from who chains you - the publisher for Eileen’s book Reboot Ranch, and her strong affiliation to rescuing animals of all types it’s in her DNA drives her.
Also, RonaLaFae hoot her incredible memoirs and my audio production of her book, full of love and betrayal, rejection, murder and the connection to heaven.
another Val and her incredible journey through scrapbooking and how she uses it as her cathartic creative therapy outlet. She’s someone who you’d love to be friends with.
I sit down with a fellow podcaster Brandi Fleck about her show human amplified and the stories she’s heard and how incredibly vulnerable and raw her guests are on her show. It’s true and heavy.
episode 112 season 3
'Meshuggeneh'
Hey Everyone, it’s Valerie here, todays show is with Melina Schein of The Saucy Soprano where we talk all things like covid, without work, a new side hustle or two like her Blog and Podcast along with learning a great work in Yiddish that is so appropriate for the times we are living through, meshuggeneh - which means 'that's so crazy' in Yiddish. She's tackling The Jewish Cookbook by Leah Koenig based our of New York. Melina is making her way through EVERY. SINGLE. RECIPE in order...She's creating quite the fan base check out her Instagram @TheSaucySoprano and you will know why.
Enjoy this episode with Melina, her wit, and charm is just so magnetic.
This lady Melina Schein from The Saucy Soprano falls into my theme of EAT and CREATE so famously, she’s vivacious and funny and her cooking and photos of her cooking are exceptional although I’ve never gotten the opportunity to even try something…such as a life with a friend who lives far away…we also both narrate for audible and belong to the same ‘study group’ this is how you become friends with people, same passions, foods and a sense of humour. Her claim to fame though is through her voice, she’s an incredibly successful opera singer, that has been put on hiatus (for now) due to the pandemic so she’s turned her focus to food, Jewish food…welcome to the show Melina.
BREAK ONE - MUSIC AFTER INTRO
BREAK TWO - insert music “ where do you get your inspiration”
BREAK THREE - insert music… “ the title is…”
BREAK FOUR - insert music… “ who taught you how to cook”
BREAK FIVE - insert music…"do you have a big family?"
BREAK SIX - insert music "favourite dish"
BREAK SEVEN - insert music "do you know the person that wrote the book?"
BREAK EIGHT - insert music - tell us a bit about your podcast, The Saucy Talk
BREAK NINE - insert music - your singing is incredible
BREAK TEN - insert music - your singing then Juilliard - from New York to... Wait, What?!
BREAK ELEVEN - insert music - "who was funny around you…?"
BREAK TWELVE - insert music - "popular show or episode"
BREAK THIRTEEN - insert music - "do you have a set schedule formula?"
BREAK FOURTEEN - insert music "she wants me to be a guest…"
BREAK FIFTEEN - insert music "if you like me which I believe…"
BREAK SIXTEEN - insert music "do you read?" Your favourite book is Gone ....
BREAK SEVENTEEN - insert music "let’s end on a yiddish word, Meshuggeneh!"
Guest Melina Schein IS The Saucy Soprano
She's in the Paper
Melina Schein, The Opera Singer, recently made the news with her saucy soprano glitz and glam, check out this article: What's an out-of-work opera singer to do during a pandemic? For Vernon's Melina Schein, the answer is cook!
Well, wasn’t that just the best interview I’d had in a while since I can’t have people in my studio - zoom is great cause you can SEE the person. This is my friend that I met because of our love for producing audio books, she thinks I can be priminister - what a compliment, thank Melina.
And to close here’s a clip of her podcast to inspire you to listen to another canadian podcast show as a product of covid - be sure to share this episode with like minded cooks and jewish ladies or any ladies for that matter - get inspired in the kitchen by follower Melina’s posts as her writing is sure to make you have a giggle here and there - she even sings to a pickle - YEP it’s a true story.
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode111 part2 season3
Dave and Sarah are my guests today and it's about their Book, Skeletons in my Closet
Hey Everyone, this is part two, it would be advantageous for you to listen to part one first as we delve way more into his book, their partnership in writing it and I’ll finish reading the story from yesterday about his son…more about being undercover, inspiring and life lessons we will get into today.
Page 69 here’s the continuation of the story we left on in the last episode…full disclosure I couldn’t stay composed through this reading of this section by Dave, it was him and his son….First Impressions continue reading this…happy my son, sat in the cart as we made our way….
my guest today
The Book is Called Skeletons in my Closet, Life Lessons from a Homicide Detective. I should mention, the topics discussed in this book are not for children and some of the these might also be triggers as we review crime scenes and stories in some depth. However, it’s all around a basis of what he’s learn, Dave Sweet about being a homicide detective.
Questions Discussed in the InterView
Dave: Tell me about your grandfather, Justice of the Peace for Alberta
Sarah's Books:
Duke out at the DinerKiss Me in the Rain - Option for a MovieClaiming Love
Sarah: What is the case that has stuck with you?
A Young Boy...
Colloquilasm...
Something else that was so Interesting...
We have this one Guy...
Yeah it's like what you were saying with words...
Throughout Dave and Sarahs book, there’s little anecdotes of lessons like this:
If you wish to keep your relationship in proper balance, remain true to your wordAbsolutes can be dangerously laminated and void us of creative, advantageous thoughtsDefine what success actually means to you
When I started this whole podcasting gig and trying to figure out why I wanted to do this, I actually used the word legacy to my hubby - leaving a legacy of me behind for my daughter. An audioblog, and audio scrapbook of my life in these verbal snapshots, hmm I guess I’m not the only parent who fills this way.
Tomorrow we delve in their partnership, cases that stuck with them and the people in these cases, how the stories and the lessons came to be and much more.
let's discuss Skeletons in my Closet, Life Lessons from a Homicide Detective
Find Dave Sweet and Sarah Graham
Dave & Sarah @ UnconventionalClassroom
Published Through @ Mischievious Books
Find Sarah on Instagram @ Sarah Kades Graham
More about Dave @ CBC
His story on 'The Detectives' called Hatred @ Imdb
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode111 part1 season3
Dave and Sarah are my guests today and it's about their Book, Skeletons in my Closet
Hi Everyone it’s Valerie here, todays show is part 1 of 2 and sort-of from my archives, not that I’ve released this episode before BUT I did this interview late in 2019, and we my guest and I had BIG plans, like plans for a series and more…but alas covid hit and boom done with these plans (FOR NOW). This is a special interview, actually one of my first interviews with a writer, an author, from Calgary, and a Detective. This is his book we are going to be discussing today with him and his co-writer slash confident, Sarah Grahams.
The Book is Called Skeletons in my Closet, Life Lessons from a Homicide Detective. I should mention, the topics discussed in this book are not for children and some of the these might also be triggers as we review crime scenes and stories in some depth. However, it’s all around a basis of what he’s learn, Dave Sweet about being a homicide detective.
Also, this is back when, before covid, before social distancing and way before our lives changed in so many way. Like we share microphones, sat at the same table, hugged and drank tea and water for hours, in the same room without shields…ahhh the good ol days…I digress, you’re in for a real treat in the next few episodes so sit back and enjoy.
Questions Discussed in the InterView
Here's the description...
Describe the Cover...
Actions don't make headlines...
How did you two meet, Dave and Sarah?
What inspired you to write the book Dave and how did Sarah help?
Chapter 4, white picket fences...
Surveillance and how it effects Dave, and his family...
This was one of the hardest parts of the story for me…being a mom and knowing how innocent kids are and what they see, and love in their parents are one in the same, a scruffy dad is the world to this little boy. You’ll hear the rest of this story on the next episode tomorrow.
Throughout Dave and Sarahs book, there’s little anecdotes of lessons like this:
Find your passion and master itPeople will say extraordinary things when given the space to be heardSometimes the easiest person to lie to is yourselfIt is not hard to be a bit better than average
When I started this whole podcasting gig and trying to figure out why I wanted to do this, I actually used the word legacy to my hubby - leaving a legacy of me behind for my daughter. An audioblog, and audio scrapbook of my life in these verbal snapshots, hmm I guess I’m not the only parent who fills this way.
Tomorrow we delve in their partnership, cases that stuck with them and the people in these cases, how the stories and the lessons came to be and much more.
let's discuss Skeletons in my Closet, Life Lessons from a Homicide Detective
Find Dave Sweet and Sarah Graham
Dave & Sarah @ UnconventionalClassroom
Published Through @ Mischievious Books
Find Sarah on Instagram @ Sarah Kades Graham
More about Dave @ CBC
His story on 'The Detectives' called Hatred @ Imdb
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode 110 season 3
Crawdads & Dogs
"Crawdads": are explained as the synonym of the words crawfish and crayfish that is used to mean the aquatic animal that looks like a small lobster and lives in rivers and streams, can also be called crawdaddies..."Search & Rescue SAR Dogs": a domesticated carnivorous mammal that typically has a long snout, an acute sense of small, non retractable claws and a barking, howling or whining voice - in other words man's best friend! They also, spring into action assisting humans during difficult times. They track people lost in the wilderness or those lost after a natural disaster. These Search and Rescue or SAR dogs can find Alzheimer's patients who have wandered away from a care facility.
Todays show falls under the category of "READ" under my show brand EAT|READ|CREATE as I'm sharing two awesome books First Where the Crawdad's Sing by Delia Owens AND Second: The Search by Nora Roberts
ENJOY THIS EPISODE
Recently I put a request out on my FB page in need of a book to read IMMEDIATELY. Don't you get this feeling, when you are climbing into bed at night and you're like UGH I forgot to download a book...or oh MAN I finished my book last night - I don't feel like TV... this is where I was at sooo - what's a girl to do but post on Social Media. here's two books that I've read recently and I had to share these with you. Where the crawdad's Sing was the first suggestion by Elaine, however many of the commented concurred that this was indeed a must read...The second was from one of my go to artists Nora Roberts, a quick easy read but with a twist that seemed like you could figure it out - but NOPE wrong...
Where the Crawdad's Sing by Delia Owens
Where the Crawdad's Sing we will review first:
1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING PHENOMENONMore than 6 million copies soldA Reese Witherspoon x Hello Sunshine Book Club PickA Business Insider Defining Book of the Decade "I can't even express how much I love this book! I didn't want this story to end!"--Reese Witherspoon"Painfully beautiful."--The New York Times Book Review
Where the Crawdad's Sing by Delia Owens Book Description:
For years, rumors of the "Marsh Girl" have haunted Barkley Cove, a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. So in late 1969, when handsome Chase Andrews is found dead, the locals immediately suspect Kya Clark, the so-called Marsh Girl. But Kya is not what they say. Sensitive and intelligent, she has survived for years alone in the marsh that she calls home, finding friends in the gulls and lessons in the sand. Then the time comes when she yearns to be touched and loved. When two young men from town become intrigued by her wild beauty, Kya opens herself to a new life--until the unthinkable happens.
Where the Crawdads Sing is at once an exquisite ode to the natural world, a heartbreaking coming-of-age story, and a surprising tale of possible murder. Owens reminds us that we are forever shaped by the children we once were, and that we are all subject to the beautiful and violent secrets that nature keeps.
What people are saying
There's quite a mixed bag of comments about this book on Amazon here's a couple that stand out and have the same feeling I have - out of the more than 65,000 reviews wait that's what it was when I looked at the time of preparing to read this book, there's more than 100,000 review now. I'll stick to the reviews that make this book even a more solid read:
1: Through the eyes of a scientist and the hand of a poet: Refreshing, if not remarkable to come across a work of fiction that sweeps one along from the first paragraph, speaking with the bold, brazen, and gentle voice of the poet, filtered through the keen and meticulous eyes of the scientist and nature-lover.
Owen delights and surprises in equal measure as her coming-of-age tale soars and plummets as briskly as the marsh grasses and the long-legged birds she so loves, celebrating the beauty and brutality of man and na...
episode 109 season 3
Glencairns
Whiskey Tastings:
Why whiskey or is it burban?What did you learn about Bourbon scotch & whiskeyWhere do these originate?Why did you choose the ones we’re trying today?Why the order?Price point?Describe the glasses - shapeWater?
First time my hubby takes a spot on my microphone..todays show is about Bourbon, Scotch and Whiskey or whisky? I’d like to Welcome my husband Jeff to the show, you’ve heard his name over the course of the last 99 shows here and there. He listens to the show sometimes and gives me feedback on the episodes where I’ve recorded him and some of our intimate discussions…but todays show is different today we are doing a tasting episode. A few burbans, and scotches to wetted our pallets - enjoy the episode. This episode was originally recorded later in 2019…
Well our first interview together now you finally know what my husband sounds like and thanks for joining us on our first whisky tasting - it was very enjoyable to learn and try these out…not sure they are for me but I’m always up for trying something new. If you’ve gone down this bourbon rat hole, let me know what you’ve tried and enjoyed. I’m thinking there will be more experimentation in the future with my hubby. If you have any questions about whiskeys please check out the show links to everything we’ve discussed today and drop a comment or question and we will get back to you :)
Some cool things to check out...happy tasting!
I’d like to Welcome my husband Jeff to the show, you’ve heard his name over the course of the last 99 shows here and there. He listens to the show sometimes and gives me feedback on the episodes where I’ve recorded him and some of our intimate discussions…but todays show is different today we are doing a tasting episode. A few burbans, and scotches to wetted our pallets - enjoy the episode. This episode was originally recorded later in 2019…
Break One
Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt scotch a product of multiple single malt scones - in this case of Money should it’s from their 2 neighbouring speyside distilleries includes whisky from Kinivie, Balvenie and Glenfiddich, this particular distillery has been opened since 1990.
Break Two
Mash is made from grain
Scott whisky must be aged in oak barrels for at least 3 years to All Scotch whisky must be aged in oak barrels for at least three years. Any age statement on a bottle of Scotch whisky, expressed in numerical form, must reflect the age of the youngest whisky used to produce that product. A whisky with an age statement is known as guaranteed-age whisky. These barrels are USED
Break Three:
These barrels for example Jack Daniels cost roughly $160 these are the original JD barrels they used to age their whisky - for $300-$600 you can find quality barrels that are not sanded or polished as they are used for function and storage. They can only be used once when making the Jack Daniels batches- then they are sold to hot sauce makers, beer brewers and Scotch whiskey distillers who will reuse them…In Kentucky you can only use the barrel once, Burbon has to be in a brand new barrel - scotch cannot be used in the brand new barrel…
Break 4
Glencairn - spell it - these glasses are the coolest scotch, bourbon and whiskey tasting nipping glasses. A Glencairn is a tombstone erected on the highest mountain peaks to mark the grave sights and honour fallen Scottish warriors. The glass was designed with aid of master blenders from five of the largest whisky companies in Scotland - in 2001. Specifically for ‘nosing’ the whisky sample. The glass itself is small just holds 6 ounces when plumb full but typically should only hold 1.75 ounces. Guess what this glass on the Queen’s award for Innovation in 2006.
Break 5
We’ve all heard the word proof before when describing alcohol or moonshine even. The term proof dates back to the 16th century in England or 1848 in the USA - when spirits were taxed at different rates...
episode 108 season 3
Studio 17 Tour
Hey Everyone, it’s Valerie here - Todays show Studio 17 - was originally published on my YouTube site and a fun little project I wrote, produced and directed. It’s a tour of my studio with some subtle humour and over exaggerated descriptions of the space.. I wanted to make it sound like you were walking into an architectural feat - but alas this is my space, where I write, learn and grow as podcaster, audiobook narrator, host and dabble in my own videography. This is the space I transform my stories and publish them for all of you - so without further adieu, here’s studio 17 and your audio tour - to see the full video, please check out the link in the show notes.
Welcome to Studio 17…located in Calgary, Alberta Canada in this glorious space where the works of Valerie Moss and many guests have performed their conversations, story telling in both audio and video productions…this is the place where Valerie has accomplished more than 100 podcast episodes and over 30 audiobook productions for audible, along with hours of video clips - all composed right here in this 100 square foot space.Designed in 2019 with love.. as it began like most projects with a board on Pinterest to include a pallet of colours (greens, purples and greys), a feeling and mood and a collection of items like antique, wrought iron, spindles, angles and prettiness to make this space complete…it was a success.Draping these walls of marshmallow purple are elements of her daughters former crib. One the East wall, hangs the bottom plate of the crib with 13 rungs measuring 2” high x a staggering 22” wide…this forefront quilt adorning this piece of a small Childs bed was hand crafted in 2011 by Valerie’s mother… the front of this quilt showing-casing over 288 2” squares appliquéd onto this neutral background..sandwiched in cotton. Below this, festoons a remarkable quilt showcasing dupioni silks imported from India, the hand stitching is worth bragging about consisting of more than 1000 French knots tied in silk floss, the flowers and butterflies glisten off this quilt top just begging for your attention…this EAST wall provides colour and beauty and has an uncanny ability to absorb sound making this side of the room perfect for recording audioworx.As we move through the room with it’s exaggerated white frames and glistening stainless steel knobs, Kurt silver hinges on the two secret doors holding all sorts of miscellaneous items …we find the south wall, this small section with the quaintest of features exhibiting a $3.00 rake found at a local garage sale…no longer wanted by it’s previous owners. Valerie and her love of DIY projects took this pine rake and with paint that has been historically stored in her undercroft at studio seventeen - provided this rake with the love an attention it so needed, coloured it with fresh creams, and neutral tones giving it the uplift it always desired and a warm clean space right here in this pocket sized spot. This pole with a cross bar toothed end is holding a bouquet of dried lavender from the fields of a local garden centre along with a miniature hand crafted heart made out of black felted wool.The centre of the ceiling is enraptured by this glorious 3 bulb chandelier purchased from a back alley exchange with a 40 something women through the world renowned Kijiji site and installed into this custom location by Valerie’s groom. This painted rod iron focal point completes the top of this space, casting striations across the milky egg shell coloured highest permissible level.Below the origin of light the focal point of this atelier, is the foundation of the creative space. Valerie wanted the studio to have a rotund piece and this ornate table filled this vision stupendously…with the elegant gold, all colours mixed together equalling the colour of white, the four legs of this table sweeping out so elegantly finishing in claw feet with the surest poise.
episode 107 season 3
Life Inside The Lorraine
Todays' show is about The Lorraine, a building, #620 and has always been my favourite building in Calgary, I’ve always wanted to live here, only had the opportunity once years ago to visit it and it was…disappointing. BUT this article written by Heidi Klaassen for The Sprawl (an undefended local journalism platform) right here in Calgary wrote the story that I believed and still believe is why I love The lorraine…
Heidi Klaassen is a born and raised Calgary writer of fiction and non-fiction. She works for the Alexandra Writers’ Centre Society and her eco-friendly label, Hekkal & Hyde. She lives in Calgary with her husband, sons and rescue chihuahuas.
Here's the article as published in The Sprawl Been Caught Stealing, Life Inside the Lorraine that I've narrated and produced verbatim for Heidi.
When I reached out to Heidi about producing this article she’d written, she was thrilled and in turn reached out to The Sprawl for their permission - which they granted. Heidi is an author and is shopping her current novel around for promotion she also belongs to and works at the Alexandra’s Writers’ Centre who support local creative writing through learning and shared experience.
If you’re from the Calgary area and know this building, do you have any stories to share? When I mentioned I was in this building once, I was back in 2015 or so, I was there for a meeting and was so excited. When you enter in the Lobby true to Heidi’s story the floor is black and white checkered tiles, the wood and structure takes your mind back into a fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast with it’s opulent wood work. I was meeting an architect, and was so awe struck that I got to be in The lorraine that I can’t even remember what the meeting was about!
Upon closing I sure hope you loved this story as much as I did and thank you to Heidi for letting me share her story. Heidi has quite the talent, not only does she write - articles like this one, fiction and non-fiction novels but she also runs an incredible eco-friendly artisan bags shop on etsy, these are hand made (they say made by ‘two hands’).. bags, clutches, napkins and more…
I perused her site and found a couple of adorable items
1) reusable snack bag - sandwich bag - hand printed with a rustic heart bag - this bag is shown with fish crackers toppling out of it, a modelled print fabric and is just perfect to slip into your handbag or your kiddo’s lunch price $13.
2) reversible fabric napkins - who doesn’t love a nice cotton napkin, I LOVE them, $48 dollars for a set of six in a variety of of prints and options polka-dots, flowers, abstract so many options to choose from
Well I think I’ve covered my theme in whole EAT - we will take a set of 6 reversible napkins please READ - this tasty article about the lorraine - CREATE as some of you know I love a good sewing project - between these handmade bags, napkins and clutches of Heidi’s we can check off all of the boxes.
Until next time, stay safe everyone…
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
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The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
episode106 season 3
Cheapest bottle of Wine in NYC
Hey Everyone, it’s Valerie here, Todays show $14 Bottle of Rose in New York I have a special guest, Rod Lechalt, we originally met when I was working on an audiobook production/radio show called Project DF he was one of my casted characters, take a listen…
He was so good I casted him for another part
…take a listen
And then we followed each others socials and I discovered we have similar interests like food and drinks so, we got to talking and here’s our interview, think EAT - great good around the world, CREATE - great memories about travel and a good storyteller, oh and he’s from Calgary, Alberta also like me, enjoy the show! This show was originally recorded in May of 2020, there is some light swearing which I do not beep
One thing you’ll notice right away from Rod is his love to tell a quick snippet story here and there like this one..
As I mentioned at the top of the show this was originally aired in May of 2020 when covid was in full swing in our city…Michelin stars is a rating that was first introduced in 1926....Has this every happened to you - I’m sure it has...More Corona virus chat...I had not seen the video - I have however watched it - well part of it...Rod and his wife posed nude .....Sous Vide...Why do they call it Hell’s kitchenLe Pain Quotidien....oui oui
Wow what an interview, such a friendly guy hey? We had a great time, and since we originally recorded this episode in May there’s so much that has happened in the world and one of the major things for this episode is numerous places that Rod has visited on his food travels are no longer open or temporarily closed due to covid. So many great restaurants haven’t made it through this difficult time and with more and more people learning to cook at home this will likely continue.
Here's a recap of the places we chatted about:
The Three chimneys, Isle of Sky in Scotland
Meaning of Michelin Stars
Ad hoc + addendum Restaurant, California
The French laundry, Yountville California
Hayden block, Calgary Alberta
Mandy Lee, The art of Escapism Cooking Book - A Survival Story, a Lady and pups Cookbook
Momofuko Group, David Chang, New York
https://momofuku.com
Ugly Delicious, Netflix Show,
Global News, Imagine Segment
https://globalnews.ca/news/6701227/celebrities-imagine-singalong/
Cooked, Netflix Show
Flour, Water, Salt Yeast, Book
L’entrecote de paris, Paris France
The Final Table, Netflix Series, Calgary Chef
4th spot kitchen and bar, Calgary Alberta
Captain’s Boil, Calgary Alberta
Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan New York
Le Pain Quotidien, Manhattan New York
Mendicino County, California Highways
Fetzer Winery, Old River Road, Hopland CA
The Canada 150 Project Podcast
One thing I have to confess is we each recorded our sides of the conversation on our own mic as well as over zoom…I however when it came to editing this show late in 2020 could not find my side of the recording…so the editing and processing was a bit of a feat with the online audio.
Until next time, I’m Valerie from Valerie’s Variety Podcast in Studio 17
Rod’s Instagram
Other shows similar to this one:
https://valeriemoss.ca/?s=vegas, Vegas Baby!
https://valeriemoss.ca/2019/10/29/review-without-papers-inglewood/, …when the moon hits your eye like a BIG pizza Pie…
Cheapest Wine in NYC with Rod Lechelt
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode105 season3
Book Review and sneak Peak into this incredible horror story, Limbo by Marko Pandza
Limbo Book Review
Hey there, it’s me, Valerie Moss, todays is a follow up show to yesterdays interview with Marko Panza and his book Limbo, we're going to review the book and get a sneak peak at chapter 1. Now that you met the author let's meet Grim the Reaper and his love Dora and see what other readers have to say about the book.
Again, this isn’t a family friendly episode, soooo….there's swear words that I do not beep and other scary language.
Here’s the retail…
First when you get his book, it’s not the average paperback size it’s slightly large, the cover is ominous with a dark figure, and white orb surrounding it - you can’t really tell if it’s walking away or towards to you, colour greyscale. Also the print is a dark black, on white paper again not your typical paperback colour.
Marko has laid the book out in a today time slot, the present and then a yesteryear time slot, way in the past, however in limbo you aren’t really sure about the timing of anything.
Those of you who like to get into a good scary story, not like a mystery more like a horror, this book will put your detective skills to the test and those that like a movie director like Tim Burton and or Rob Zombie, this will lend itself nicely.
When he goes back and forth in time, and introduces you to these two worlds the living and the dead…
Marko has a way of perpetuating your ideas of the characters in the book, like Dora she is so sure of herself it even scares her assistant, poor RAMBO who’s always yelling you root for him and people do the strangest things to him…the people in limbo are being watched by….. well I can’t give that part away.
The love story portion of this book, probably hits home to almost anyone who reads it because…it’s sort of envious if you were Jekle and your partner was Hyde.
The redest of red hair and smashing of canvas paintings always struck me as an interesting side story that I was intrigued by. Here’s a glimpse of Dora
One of the places in the book that has sat with me is when Caitlin and Grim are walking…
They stopped talking and continued their slow walk, Caitlin periodically swallowing the threat of nausea. Grim was impressed to see her side-stepping knee-high piles of petrified chicken bones and mummified bread littering the path as if she were on a track, further evidence of her tenure in the Den.
Here’s a few reviews on amazon:
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I don't usually read horror novels especially...
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Truly gripping from start too finish, a perfect blend of humour....
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Loved it, loved the imagery, loved the symbolism.....
And here’s my review as the producer we always read the book first then we get into the production of it. When I read this book, it was an instant page turner because of the two universes and the time shifting between current and past, love and hate the have’s and have-nots. It kept me wanting more and trying to figure out Grimm’s plan and his relationship with the cop.
Thanks for listening to the show today, links to Marko and is book Limbo are in my show notes and we will close this episode with a listen to chapter 8. Appetite in it’s entirety to tempt you further. Buy the book Limbo by Marko Pandza here
Book Review of Limbo...
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode104 season 3
Interview with Author Marko Pandza
Explicit
Hey everyone, it’s Valerie here, todays show is called Limbo is an interview with an Author that I collaborated with and produced his book. The book is called Limbo, the author is Marko Pandza, he’s from eastern Canada. Today we discuss the book, if you’re looking for a good scary thriller, that has a theme like non I’ve heard of - Limbo, the place between the living and the dead. There are curse words in todays episode which I do not beep and there is discussions about drugs and negative relationship views This is not a family episode.
markopandza.com
INTRO
Do you know what a copyrighter is...
Marko reads the back cover...
Background on the grim reaper...
This is a great way to sum up...
Show Links:
Jack Whitehall, Comedian from the UK
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode 103 season 3
Todays show is a Review of the Book from yesterdays episode, Ghost of Me by Amanda Steel, this was my first fiction book with characters that I completed. I loved this book and I loved that I produced this for a women in the UK. We will explore some pieces of this book today to maybe enticee you to buy a paperback or an audio version of this book. We’ll share chapter 1 at the end of the show…
One thing that stands out about her writing for Ghost of Me, is that the books starts out with a poem.
Haunting my own life
I'm a ghostHaunting my own life Trying to remember How not to be forgotten
I'm a ghostBut my heart still beatsNow I'm slowly fadingSoon there will be nothing left
I'm a ghostWatching, listening, wishingI was still part of something While everyone else gets to live
I'm a ghostThough I still have breath Everything plays out in front of me
But it's all just out of reach
Doesn’t this just set the stage for the book, you get an idea of what you’re walking into but nothing on how it plays out.
As you heard in the interview with Amanda, she chose locations in her book that were sort of true but changed the street names and areas to disguise these just a little.
One Review says: This is a rare find. A great paranormal thriller. Spine-tingling and goosebumps throughout the book. Fast paced and action packed storyline. Keeps you from putting this book down.
Another Review says: This is the 1st book I've read written by Amanda Steel; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book. I loved the chemistry between the characters.
Another Reviewer says: She was killed and she is now a ghost. She finds out there is a chance she had been murdered. Being a ghost is not going to stop looking for her killer. Who killed her? How will she do it? See if she can
My Review: If you like a good crime story, and paranormal bits added in, this is a great read - who wouldn’t want to solve their own murder? But as a ghost it makes things a lot more difficult like talking or writing or transporting to another location. Amanda has thought of all kinds of angles in this book keeping you guessing and pondering. I also like that the book is written in first person which makes it more personal, especially as a female reader and narrator.
Thanks Amanda for trusting me with your book and liking my voice!
Here’s chapter one of Ghost of me!
What did you think of this sneak peak, please visit the show notes to purchase a copy of Ghost of Me Audio Book or check out Amanda Steel Writer website and her other books that are more in the zombie line up.
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode 102 season 3
Hey Everyone, it's Valerie here, todays show is an interview with The Author of Ghost of Me, Amanda Steel. She is an author and copywriter living in Manchester, UK. Ghost of Me is her second novel to be converted into an audiobook. She also has a third in production. As the co-host of a book review podcast, she has become an avid listener of audiobooks, to ensure that she always has enough books to review each month. She finds she can often listen while doing some more mundane tasks, which don't require a lot of thinking, can't we all agree with this?
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Intro 1:13.0 todays show I have a special guest, Amanda Steel author of Ghost of me a book I had the pleasure of producing, it was my first fiction book and it had a character named Valerie, how fitting right? Well we will get to know Amanda and the goods behind this story, the characters and her love of writing..
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Speakeasy have you ever been to a spoken word night? I’ve been to an open mic night with muscian which would be a similar theme when I checked out their fb page (link in show notes)…https://www.facebook.com/speakeasymanchester/ it’s a large living room setting and has a great vibe by the pictures anyway…
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We are going to touch on covid, before we do though I just want to let you know that I originally recorded this in June you know in the middle of this pandemic — this show was edited late in 2020 when the 2nd wave is in full swing across the world and currently calgary where I live is in a semi lockdown state - we cannot socialize with any one out of our cohorts - yes weird word I know but we cannot socialize with anyone out of our home residence - at the time of this editing, the world has reached 76, million covid cases and 1.6 million fatalities - it has touched the world. It’s interesting listening to Amanda and how she knows people. And the discussion about masks is so suprising - especially mid pandemic.
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Amanda lives in Manchester UK which has a population of 2.7 million and their case count as of today in late dec 2020 is 35,000 active cases.
End, well thank you to Amanda Steel for taking the time to be interviewed on my show, I loved talking to her about her book and getting to the know the author, the first author who I read a fictional book for - it was such a great experience for me…to conclude I thought I’d play you chapter 1 and if you’re interested in hearing more, please let me know and I can give you a free download credit to the complete audio book.
Find Amanda:
Her Website
Her InstaGram
Her PodCast
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode 101season3
Turn your Palm Towards the Light
Todays Show is with Founder and owner of Calling Mountains Productions, Valerie St-Arnaud. Growing up in Quebec offered a wealth of inspiration but as she grew older there was always something calling her away from the city lights and when she arrived in Whistler, BC in 2013 she realized it had been the mountains all along. Valerie has her degree in Communication and Marketing from the University of Ottawa specializing in media studies. In 2012 she won the Ottawa international film festival and that's when her passion for film started. She is known to bring the feels right to your screen. She is passionate about her art form but even more about her clients. You will find her capturing memories and chasing the light in and around the Sea to Sky corridor. The mountains called her here and now she is returning the favor. See you in the mountains... They are calling!
some of Valerie St-Arnaud's work
BREAK THREE: (5:38) let’s just dig into this a little bit. This was in 2012 the criteria for the submissions are things like, must be live streaming (no download required) language (English and French or French with subtitles), presentation copies, your typical deadlines, transportation and insurance to ship materials, selection process, now if you’re selected your requirements for type of file, sound quality, bios, photos, payment for submission, renumerations, and the different juries things like short film, international and children’s which are judged by children, pretty cool hey. We get into more detail about this shortly..
More of Valerie's work...can't you feel the emotion in these photos?
WHAT A NEAT WAY TO MAKE SOMEONE COME TO LIFE AND LIFE
BREAK FIVE: If you haven’t listened to my episode with Valerie Butters do, she is so casual and creative. Also Pemberton is located in British Columbia approx 160km from Vancouver, only 25km from the beautiful ski resort Whistler. This place is for people who love winter for the snow sports, cross country skiing, back country skiing, ice fishing, snowmobiling and more…that fresh mountain air, can you just feel that - my favourite feeling is that!
BREAK SIX: I originally interviewed Valerie St Arnaud back in April of this year so at the start of covid here in Western Canada…we did the interview over Skype, she in her tank top, and ball cap, me in my favourite chair sitting cross legged…wanting to know her secrets to film, photography and creating these incredible memories in still and motion…
BREAK SEVEN: the basic rules for operation of a drone when you don’t have a licence - which is most of us - the drone must be under 250 grams in weight, there’s very specific areas that you are allowed to fly this tiny vessel so check your local regulations - Val here is so much to have someone who’s fully liscenced to help her with her videos as when you take the time to stop by you’ll be amazed at what she captures.
BREAK EIGHT: did you catch that slight tip she gave us - is you shoot your image and it’s blown out or too bright because of the sunny day…change it to black and white and voila you have a great photo!
BREAK NINE: chasing the light is her motto - did you catch that tip put the palm of your hand and if it shows shadows move until the light is brighter - boom you got good light on your subject!
BREAK TEN: get confidence, get creative and gain confidence..
BREAK TWELVE: wow what a story. You know I think this is something that we all need to hear, even tho we are here to do a job weather it be me podcasting or this Val in her specialty we will run into people that are critics and want to be heard in an opposing manner. Life is full of stories and here’s one that had made it’s mark on Val - she will always remember this women, who in the end gave Val more strength in the end to own her craft.
BREAK FIFTEEN: It seems so long ago when I interviewed her - and we are still even more heavily effec...
episode 100 part 5 season 3
The Anglers Catch the Authors
Todays show part 5 and the final part of our look back over the last 100 shows we end on my new theme, a great pattern to brighten up your bed, anglers, chakras, covid and more…enjoy this episode. We also have many clips from all of you sharing what you've learned after 100______ including mine. This was such an amazing look back reminiscing over these episodes, guests and more!
Episode 83 - EAT | READ | CREATE I needed a regroup, new theme, new goals and when I set these, things came to life!
Episode 84 - What 2 Do - What 2 Do A bit about my year (did you loose your job too) in a nut shell along with a few other peoples perspective - becoming a teacher and more, check this out.
Episode 85 - Easiest Spring Pillow Case & GiveAway A fun project to brighten up your bed with new pillow cases, easy step by step instructions and a bonus giveaway!
Episode 86 - Chakras, What are these? Another great audio book produced by your truly, Heart Chakra is positioned in your heart area and focuses on love, relationships and self acceptance…here’s the clip
Episode 87&88 - Valerie Butters OH MY goodness was this lady fun to interview, she’s a player of paint on canvas and is so real in her social posts it’s really a give in to follow her and learn from her wit, trials, paint and her life.
Episode 89 - Mental Health - Challenge Me This was a difficult episode to write about, I was part of a challenge and won based on these words, I feel like we all go through bouts of depression or sadness in our lives - here’s my story, this originally aired in season 1 episode 46 and think it's even more valuable today.
Episode 90 - Guest Spot, On Being Human Podcast, I saved a Life An emotional retelling of a time I saved a life while on my honeymoon…
Episode 91 - Buddhism for Beginners One of my first audiobooks, and when I discovered the love to tell stories.
Episode 93 - It’s about the People A great InterView with a local Calgarian and Podcaster, Michael Montgomery who finds the stories behind the people, startups, home buyers and more, this is a 2 part episode.
Episode 94 - Black Cats & Magic Crystals An audiobook produced by me which was eye opening and interesting learning about this Nature Based Religion, Wiccan.
Episode 95 & 96 - She’s an Angler When I interviewed these two amazing women I didn’t know at the time even what an Angler was…what a fun and awesome episode with the two fisher women, you're in for a treat! This is a two part episode.
Episode 97 & 98 - InterView with Liam Callanan and his book, Paris by the Book This book was a gift and a great read and I got to interview this ultra famous author and wow is he humble and in love with Paris!
Episode 99 - The Close of 2020 My year in review, Downs and some UPs a story of perspective and feeding the homeless, falling pants and giving back.
The Anglers Catch the Authors
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode 100 part 4 season 3
I Cast a Spell on the Moon
Hey everyone, it’s Valerie here in this second to last episode we are diving into authors and great books, more Valerie’s and truffle popcorn…my side hustle into Audiobooks, whiskey samplers, and an introduction to my new theme…which is still so fitting EAT READ and CREATE…enjoy this episode
Episode 63&64&65 - Clare C. Marshall wrote Sparkstone Saga A collection of books set in Alberta everyone has special powers and Clare, read for us with her amazing spirit and up beat attitude she was so fun to interview! A 3 part episode.
Episode 66&67& 68 - Valerie Flexual This was a 3 part show, and man did we have fun, she’s is such a neat person, with a larger than life persona - her IG has like 20,000 pictures - she bares all, cleans up the earth every. single. day. and is so genuine.
Episode 69 & 70 - Truffle Popcorn, and my choice is better! One day while I was working away…I missed lunch and my friend Jenny brought me a plate of this popcorn…the rest is history. Join my hubby and I on our day date to this place, Sauce!
Episode 71 - You Don’t Need to Be Like Them Another interview with an incredible Valerie, she’s honest and passionate about helping people - all part of my Valerie Segment. She believes in people helping people.
Episode 72 & 73 &74 - Whiskey Samples & the God’s Chair a mountain and a book Interview with Constance Varga and her incredible book, The God's Chair…about a boy who turns 16, & a girl Hanna, set in Transylvania…we read, we sample some old whiskeys and enjoy this mystical story. 3 part episode.
Episode 75 - When the Moon hit’s your eye like a BIT pizza pie… a great pizza joint and nice day with my fam jam in Inglewood - worth a stop! Disco ball and black and white movies playing on a projector - lots of stairs to climb and good food.
Episode 76&77 - Valerie Valdivia, Uncanny This Valerie fits into my Valerie Segment perfectly because she’s so creative with her drawings, she drew a perfect sewing mouse complete with a thimble top hat…she’s worth the listen, 2 part episode.
Episode 78 - Chants - Spells and Witches One of my first audio books, Wicca for Beginners, I loved learning all about the myths, paganism and this nature based religion…like Halloween was originally call Sanheim, great listen.
Episode 79-80-81 - Secret of the ‘V’ This was a 3 part episode where I sit down with an old client turned friend, Valora Douglas to talk about being Vals’ - her fancy girly room, her books and more!
Episode 82 - Ornaments - Recipes - Chain Letter! The close of Christmas for 2019, new traditions like tree ornaments, I wrote a chain letter but didn’t get it back…worth- a try, my favourite recipes from The Best of The Best and more cookbook…and a trip!
What did you think of part 4 of this look back isn’t it fun to get to know the Valerie’s - me dabbling into this audiobook world, interviewing local authors and their stories to tell, I just loved this part…so many good memories sort of like an audio scrapbook…
Next week, for our final part, we are closing in on the final 20 shows of my podcast the newest shows, shows that you likely still remember hearing me tell these stories…my new theme, giveaways, interview with a famous Writter and more…
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode 100 part 3 season 3
a Daughter with the Blues
Hey Everyone, it’s Valerie here, today’s show is part 3 in our count up to 100 episodes, in this show today our snippets will include, a vet, a rude lady, my bday episode, a crazy story about quilters that don’t include quilting and by far my most commented show…I’m a daughter without a mother a heartfelt episode…enjoy the show!
Episode 42 - Housekeeping Promo Think a 96 year old cat, a rude lady, messy body, gravely voices, court hearing, round food, rectangular food and an absent Mother. Playing with little compilations for a recap episode.
Episode 43 - Vets To Go Review My old cat takes centre stage in this episode getting a check up right here on my kitchen table with a lovely caring Vet. This is my daughters favourite episode.
Episode 44 - Colour Me Mine This is one of our ‘go-to’ favourite things to, spend the day away painting…there was however a visitor that came into the store - disrupting everyone by her comments, she was so rude!
Episode 45 - Thank you Episode Such a beautiful comment that I had to share from the Owners of the Colour Me Mine location we attended (artwork updated - website updated)
Episode 46 - Mental Health Challenge Winner Seems like an oxymoron but I did win this challenge and with that I received an awesome gift from stress case.ca - all sorts of body products to make you feel good. A heartfelt true story.
Episode 47 - Happy Birthday Valerie’s Variety Pod WOW it was my first birthday episode and the storytelling continues - did you know 6 million people share your birthday?
Episode 48 - Tenshi Sushi Say this 3 times fast, this stop is incredible, some really great and unique sushi options - if you need to pee, the hallway is pretty creepy…just staying
Episode 49 - OeB Review OeB stands for Over Easy Breakfast and has made it’s mark on the city as an awesome breakfast location with ‘boxed’ items, great crepes but the price is up there. The restaurants are beautifully decorated - worth a stop!
Episode 50 - Una Pizzeria + Wine Review The best pizza in Calgary with a great past - wicked wedge and good staff and wine - all round great stop!
Episode 51 - I’m a Daughter without a Mother This episode has the most comments, it’s a thought provoking show about my life with my mom…get the tissues
Episode 52 - The Courtroom My experience with an affidavit, two cases I watched over and ours - did we win or lose…
Episode 53 - The Best Bread About 5 years ago I stopped buying bread and started making it and this has continued each week a make 1-2 loaves of bread, in my cuisinart bread machine…here's my go to recipe.
Episode 54 - Brekkie Cafe Our experience in this great breakfast place, avocado toast, great London Fogs and more a must stop!
Episode 55 - The Messiest Body Scrub - BUT it’s worth it! I probably use this body scrub once a week, coffee and…
Episode 56 - A Quilters Story I was just with a group of women heading off to quilt but the stories of jail, son, daughter, shot, and scalded made me pause and take note.
Episode 57 - The Blues Can Join me for a night of gravelly voices, bass and dancing feel the vibe through his behind the scenes tour!
Episode 58 - Calgary Stampede The greatest outdoor show on earth and we of course celebrated with our little person, crowds, rodeos and so much more!
Episode 59 - Cre&tive Hair A hairdresser we’ve been going to for years, Donna is the main gal and a great lady, here's a behind the scenes tag along in my experience.
Episode 60 - Crazy April Snow Day A story describing an awesome photo my husband Jeff Moss took and I just love…what do you see?
Episode 61 - Point Sushi Think sushi wizzing by on bullet trains beside your arms, ordering on iPads - so fun!
Episode 62 - The Valerie Series I love my name and I don’t know any Valerie’s so I went on the hunt…me, I'm up first get to know me, the person behind this PodCast!
Wow what an episode,
episode 100 part 2 season 3
A Taxi Through The Mountains
Hey everyone it’s Valerie here, for todays episode as we continue to count up to our 100th episode is about a fallen officer, summer camps, this is when I start into the background recordings, my life in signs, a milestone birthday, a podcast winner and more, enjoy todays part 2 of 5 episode…
Episode 21 - Calgary Summer Camps for a 6 yo For all of you parents out there - this is a great go to article pre-covid obviously for summer camps & top pick for our house is….
Episode 22 - Calgary’s Lodgepole Pine, PinusContorta This episode is about Calgary , Alberta's local forests more specifically PinusContorta - that’s a mouthful!
Episode 23 - Calgary Pay Attention This quick segment is discussing Calgary languages first English, second is...? What language do you speak?
Episode 24 - Calgary History: William (Bill) Shelever 1977 This was a true group project using voices from other people to make this story come alive. Another top post I’m extremely proud of - this falling officer, new baby in his young wife’s tummy & a prisoner in the end who wants conjugal visits.
Episode 25 - behind the Shelever Episode Rookie Cop Shot and how many podcaster voices make this story come to life and where they came from - that made this previous episode happen - such a great collection of talent showcasing an important subject matter.
Episode 26 - Review: Ten, 5 & Humanity A lingering Episode why? Because of a man, down on his luck, with his special orange rock, a vegetarian go to family style restaurant with an even nicer washroom and the kindest act of Humanity!
Episode 27 - Vsquared Promo Take One A great go to for first time listeners, we answer the Why's, questions about the Calgary weather, Interviews with Wardens, expatriates, crime and being summoned…Anything here sound delicious to listen to check it out!
Episode 28 - Compass? Which Way! UGH are you like me and you have no honing device a fun episode where we talk about internal compass.
Episode 29 - New Podcasts for U Where it’s a series or a story told over a few episodes or something like NPR this is a great list of some of my favs. A small down full of Dicks and serial crime with a little Helen Gimlet uncovered. A great go to for the best podcasts.
Episode 30 - Signs Signs Everywhere is signs My entire career is based on signage and here’s the one project that changed me, the international wing of the Calgary International Airport or the IFP Project.
Episode 31 - Merry Christmas A personal Christmas story about my childhood, with the two side of my family after divorce - made my auntie smile, can you hear the fire place crackling and the people chattering, I can… Merry Christmas from me to U!
Episode 32 - Vegas Baby! A first getaway after becoming parents, a milestone birthday and our 17 Anniversary, a dogs tail remains safe and a 20’ doll comes to life! (Artwork Updated)
Episode 33 - Pure Vietnamese Kitchen I love Vietnamese food, why? Because who doesn’t like a great bowl of soup with the freshest ingredients, this is my families favourite place for Vietnamese!
Episode 34 - Friends What does it mean to have a true friend, trust and loyalty and savouring the moment of this person - Amber!
Episode 35 - Mental Health Podcast Challenge I won an award for this write up, it was true and honest and I believe we all go through bouts of mental health challenges - if you never feel low or sad, you don’t get to enjoy true happiness as you don’t have a comparison!
Episode 36 - TMT: Calgary Scottish Roots Or should I say Calaghearridh, meaning pasture by the bay, and where Calgary got her name!
Episode 37 - Loco Parentis: Student vs Institution In this episode I discuss the role the schools play on behalf of parents - they act as a parent to our children, this is the trust we place on teachers and schools, is this line blurry? (Artwork updated)
episode 100 part 1 season 3
The next week, it’s a recap of the last 99 shows, an intro to the show, a snippet for each episode and I’m squeezing in 20 shows per episode..If you’ve missed any over the years this will be a great recap. I had so much fun looking back, I’ve remastered these also
Thank you for hanging with me throughout all 99 shows…
Well 2020 has been a year of changes, growing and getting back into my personal growth. It’s been a long year, having been laid off at the end of January 2020, then covid erupting, learning how to be a teacher - can I add this to my resume? Diving into Audio Books as a side gig turned serious gig. EATing - READing and CREATing at every possible turn, with DiY projects - cooking and consuming books veraciously - to keep my sanity.
This has been a year of incredible life marks, that will forever change me and you too likely. Let’s celebrate my 100th show!
So if you’re new this show, thanks for stopping by as this will be a great introduction for you and my style of show…if you’ve been with me from the start, these snippets shall take you back…some 3 years ago.
Todays show is a collection of snippets from my first 20 episodes and the variety that the listeners have come to love, a haunted wedding location, safety, intruder, warden, expatriate, foodies, inventions, investigations and more.
To keep you entertained London my 9 year old daughter will be taking over the microphone and providing you with show titles and details for parts 1 and 2…
TAKE IT AWAY LONDON!
Episode 1 - Why a podcast? From Blogging to PodCasting, seems like a natural transition, here's why?
Episode 2 - Calgary Weather - Headley - Work Safety If you’re in Calgary you’re familiar with the chinooks, Headley’ unsavoury character
Episode 3 - Haunted Deane House - Food Fav’s - Work Safety Yes we got married in a haunted house my favourite place to eat is 4th spot Kitchen and Bar, we just walk over.
Episode 4 - Bowling Anyone? Alarm Clock & Beer Tidbit A great family night of free bowling at Craft Brewery - my 6 yo (at the time) waking by alarm clock - she still isn’t a morning person - and the best beer tidbit slash benefit in beer pouring you could ask for - is in this episode - take a listen (artwork updated)
Episode 5 - Intruder in Mount Pleasant No need for me to even read these show notes, my 6 year old and I caught a burglar in our garage robbing us, stealing our things, sitting in my car…touching my stuff, Take a listen!
Episode 6 - Broadcasting for Corrections INTERVIEW: My first guest is my step-sister Janice and discussing her incredible job in communications, writing and public relations, we get personal about her car accident that took her out of grade 8, our parents meeting and her career involvement.
Episode 7 - Interview with a Warden From the interview in Episode 6 with Janice, this interview is with her fiancé This interview shows the kindness of this warden and even tho the people we are speaking of (they may have something hidden in a hole in their body and not being their ears) are still people, they still matter, maybe what they did was unsavoury but that was their action not their whole character. This was a two part episode.
Episode 8 - Expatriate in Quatar Born in Calgary Well I was at my parents for Christmas so I did a whole slew of interviews and my dad in his quiet ways shared his story about working as an expat overseas, and about being born right here in Calgary - what a lifetime of travel my dad, Michael has conquered. This was a two part episode.
Episode 9 - Calgary Tower vs Wellingstons vs The Keg If you are from Calgary and Western Canada these 3 places are a must stop for food. The as I compare my 3 favourite places…which one do you think comes in at the top? Sky 360, Wellington's of Calgary or The Keg?
Episode 10 - I’ve been Summoned…have You? I have always wanted to be on jury duty, since my dad was on jury duty when I was in my...
episode 0 season 3
Hey Everyone, it’s Valerie, here’s a little preview for what’s to come on Valerie’s Variety Podcast and Season 3, we are keeping theme EAT READ and CREATE because I love these three things and how they bring the best out of people. In this season of Valerie’s Variety Podcast, we are going to start with a look back over the last 100 shows, a recap of each episode like the one about the man with his orange rock, q and a between me and my 6 year old, my favourite recipes, friends and crime, food, personal stories and this great city of Calgary Alberta, Canada. Also, behind the scenes here I’ve updated all of the podcast art for the last 100 shows, so you’ll see a commonality here which I’m so proud of and have received good feedback on,
Thank you for staying subscribed, thank you for all of your continued support over the last year during covid_19 and the stupid but scary corona virus and my hiatus from this outlet which I’ve missed but I’m baccckkkkk and have a great line up in store for you for Season 3.
If you want to be on my show, to share your favourite recipe, book or something you’ve created, found saw, loved, please reach out to me valerie@valeriemoss.ca. Also if you want to co-host an episode with me, I’d love that…reach out to me and let’s do it!
After the recap shows, we will get into Season 3 and the people who make this season come to life - Like a women who is an opera singer but because of covid she’s out of work and has decided to make every single recipe in a jewish cookbook. The Saucy Soprano We are going to learn about Glencairns, call some mountains, cheapest wine in NYC, there’s some theft, and I interview authors and their books, think grim reaper and solving your own murder and skeletons, Fall in love with Valentine not a date but a horse. There’s more Valerie’s to get to know also…and why are these women so creative…because it’s in the ‘V’.I’ll do some book reviews about ones that have permeated my soul that you must read - share my studio virtually with you and maybe a little creative spark here and there…
A few facts about me, I love Calgary, the winter and the sunny days. I love to be creative, scrapbook, knit, sew, quilt, cook, decorate, and work in my yard. I’ve been married 20 years, I’m an empath and own this. I love my family, I say yes to pretty much everything.
Season Three - video cover art
Follow Me:
Website @ ValerieMoss.ca
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Facebook @VSMoss
YouTube @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
The show music is call ‘Girl’ by Text me Records and Leviathe
The cover art, storytelling and production is by me, Valerie Moss.
Stay Tuned for the next season, season 3 on Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss from Studio 17
episode 99 season 2
Good-bye 2020 it's been a slice!
Todays show is a collection of snippets from my year, which you’ll find out was full of downs and a few ups. Focussing on the home, my family and my small person. It’s my final show of the year and contains a story of ‘giving back’, falling pants and perspective. Enjoy the Episode
You know my year started like any other, same job, same schedule, same same..
Then, got laid off, got my car broken into, and ventured further into this audiobook world, well since I was homeschooling (can I add this to my resume?) I had some free time on my hands…I baked, I cooked, I made masks, further lock downs…I’ve always gardened but this year like many of you I really put the effort in and enjoyed my yard so much
Since I spent a tonne of time with London we discovered she is really good at British accents so we did many video of takes like this. {insert her clip here) She entered this type of video into her school talent show and it was a hit! She found a tree buddy - which the neighbour enjoyed - so we heard from the neighbours. We got our green belts in karate, that’s level 4. We played tonnes of battleship and tried not to watch the updates…
My Covid Birthday came a little early, just before the chaos ensured and I went bowling…weird to think I put my finger into these holes inside bowling balls that have likely not been cleaned for many, many uses…and then the official day came and went without much fuss or party or excitement…
We went camping sticking nice and close to Calgary, we have a trailer so we didn’t need to wager any risks with public facilities…I baked cupcakes in the trailer camper oven, we decorate inside this little home we have grown to love ‘olive’ This was for London’s bday another covid bday
My dad had a heart attack, earch…life stopped, sort of slow motion, I’ve been down this road a few times with family members…it’s weird and strange, they look fine but they aren’t fine, it’s sort of hard to take being the one on the outside.
Well my dad got better the corona virus continued to spread.
We did go and see him my dad, and took him fishing, London actually caught her first fish - we had a great time, he was slow to improve but today several months later he’s pretty much back to his old self…
I focussed into my audiobook world, and interviewing guests and recording and editing…cooking(pierogis and cabbage rolls) and baking (scones, breads, pretzels, cinnamon buns, cookies) and enjoying being home actually…it suits me.
My grooms grandma turned 97
We did the drive through ‘stampede’ adventure for the mini donuts, I fell in love with fishing, bought the gear, casted, casted and casted, bought more gear, and bait and casted, casted and still nothing but I love being out there, it feels so good on the sole and we will attempt again!
A couple of DIY projects one major one…we made London a loft bed - that I can sit totally upright on and walk completely under - her queen bed is now above her room, witch was an incredible feat and well worth the planning, my groom is very handy…
(Insert screwing sounds from the installation)
Planned and conquered London’s halloween costume this year, she was a witch complete with a book of spells…this spell book is actually an old book published in the 1800’s that we found at an old book store for $5.
My audiobook world is becoming something I’m very proud of, and I even host a ‘study group’ for audio narrators and audacity software - this group had almost 60 members, such a great way to be with like minded people in the realm that we are in and this too is isolated.
Two books went to retail most recently is
Limbo - description - check out the retail clips
Education of Hoot - description - check out this retail clip
Our Christmas Day was just us 3 - the 3 Moss’ enjoin our special time together, we had Christmas catered, it was wonderful, we had way to much food,
episode 98 part 2 season 2
InterView with Liam Callanan about his book, Paris by the Book
In Part 2 of this incredible interview with Liam Callanan and his book Paris by the Book we chat more about the books, we love, his favourite book store, where you can find Liam. His website is something to be reviewed and definitely perused in a big way...Plus we have a give-a-way: Part 1 is here - if you haven't heard the first part, check it out.
I've giving away 2 of his books and Paris themed bookmarks...so leave me a comment telling me your favourite book and why it's lingered and you'll be entered in for the draw!
Check out the Red Balloon movie on You Tube
https://www.amazon.ca/Red-Balloon-Albert-Lamorisse/dp/1101935219
Here's the book link if you'd like to purchase this
https://www.amazon.ca/Red-Balloon-Albert-Lamorisse/dp/1101935219
Here's the movie trailer to Hugo Cabret:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4jp69Lt29k
And you can purchase the book here on amazon it's so good the drawings in the book and the feel of it you'd think you had a ancient copy of something sacred in your hand.
https://www.amazon.ca/Invention-Hugo-Cabret-Brian-Selznick/dp/0439813786
Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans book here:
https://www.amazon.ca/Madeline-Ludwig-Bemelmans/dp/0670014079/ref=sr_1_1?crid=UU6Z884POI9N&dchild=1&keywords=madeline+board+book&qid=1593101621&sprefix=Madeline%2Caps%2C414&sr=8-1
Picard Frozen Foods, like nothing you've ever tasted - so says everyone in this book and Liam himself :)
Boswell Book Company https://www.boswellbooks.com/book/9781579129101
Paris themed bookmarks included when you win 1 of 2 books Paris by the Book
episode 97 part 1 season 2
Liam Callanan is my guest - discussing this book...Paris by the Book
In this episode my guest, Liam Callanan and author of this amazing read, Paris by the Book is our topic for discussion today on the show.
Highlights:
Cover Design is this the face of a real bookstore?A reading with Liam, one of my favourite parts of the book, Leah is needing help emotionally and her friend a well-to-do man lifts her up and gives her some advice she needs at that momentThese two stories The Red Balloon and Madeline - their places in the stories and Liam's lifeLiam's recomendations of his favourite books (one of them is a Canadian Author)His incredible website...
This is a two part interview, p2 will be released tomorrow so please stay tuned and enjoy this discussion with an author who is humble, loves to tell stories and made my day! I feel like I'm in the big leagues now with this feather in my cap interviewing a best seller..
Also I have 2 give-a-ways
Leave a comment or tag me on IG or FB with your favourite book and why it's lingered - how did it attach to you so strongly and made an impact. Your name will be entered in to win one of two books, Paris by the Book (my copy because Liam send me a hard copy to replace mine) and a copy he sent as a second giveaway....
Liam Callanan, as my guest on the show today...discussing Paris by the Book
Toni Morrison's Book called: Jazz
https://www.amazon.ca/Jazz-Toni-Morrison/dp/1400076218
Alix Ohlin's Book called: Dual Citizens
https://www.amazon.ca/Dual-Citizens-Alix-Ohlin-ebook/dp/B07N31XLM1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2OWHAQ55QIQJ5&dchild=1&keywords=dual+citizens+by+alix+ohlin&qid=1593184769&s=books&sprefix=dual+citizens%2Cstripbooks%2C204&sr=1-1
Christina Clancy's book called: the Second Home
https://www.amazon.ca/Second-Home-Novel-Christina-Clancy-ebook/dp/B07XBBXJWS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=23RAO5QQ2HYHA&dchild=1&keywords=christina+clancy&qid=1593185421&s=books&sprefix=Christina+clan%2Cstripbooks%2C209&sr=1-1
Isabel Allende's book called: Daughter of Fortune
https://www.amazon.ca/Daughter-Fortune-Novel-Isabel-Allende-ebook/dp/B00I7UYDSA/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=daughter+of+fortune&qid=1593185892&s=books&sr=1-1
Part 2 will be released tomorrow, thanks for listening and enter your name to win a copy of the book and a bookmark - tell me your favourite book and you'll be entered!
Paris themed bookmarks to go with the 2 book give-a-way
episode 96 part 2 season 2
Toni Topilka - Fisherwomen - Fisher Sister - as my guest - Fly Fishing!
Amber Ramsay - Fisherwomen - Fisher Sister - as my guest - Fly Fishing!
ABOUT
Todays show uniquely named She's An Angler and is all about fly fishing - such a different type of hobby than what’s in my wheelhouse of CREATE but when I get to know more from my two friends about this outdoor hobby I wanted them on the show today and you’ll see why this fly fishing hobby (for women) is becoming popular & how these two caught the bait!
BIOS Amber: Welcome Amber Ramsay to the Show a mother of two from a small town in SK originally but moved to Calgary many years ago. She started fly fishing by taking a lesson from Jim and Lynda McLennan - something she always wanted to do…I’ve known Amber for over 20 years. She’s also a top real estate agent and loves her work.
BIO Toni: Welcome Toni Toplika to the show who’s been fishing since she could hold a fishing rod but added fly fishing only 2 years ago after going the Calgary Women’s Fly Fishing Club meet up - this is where she met Amber. I’ve know Toni for several years working on an enormous project together in our own fields and being some of the few women on this job - we became confidents and fast friends.
Toni Topilka is on the board of directors for the not-for-profit Calgary Women Fly Fishers, and a member of the not-for-profit Hook and Hackle club in Calgary, Alberta.
An avid angler since very young, Toni has fished many waters in Canada including Haida Gwaii and Sicamous in British Columbia, various lakes and rivers throughout Alberta including the Bow river, the Oldman and Livingstone rivers, also still waters in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario.
After a lifetime of spin-cast fishing, at the age of 50, Toni bravely took up a flyrod in 2018 after joining the CWFF club and with the encouragement of the membership, caught her first trout with a fly on the annual club campout at the Oldman river. Since then she has learned to tie flies and is eager to teach new club members how to tie their own flies at club meetings.
episode 95 part 1 season 2
Amber Ramsay - Fisherwomen - Fisher Sister - as my guest - Fly Fishing!
Amber Ramsay - Fisherwomen - Fisher Sister - as my guest - Fly Fishing!
ABOUT
Todays show uniquely named She's An Angler and is all about fly fishing - such a different type of hobby than what’s in my wheelhouse of CREATE but when I get to know more from my two friends about this outdoor hobby I wanted them on the show today and you’ll see why this fly fishing hobby (for women) is becoming popular & how these two caught the bait!
BIOS Amber: Welcome Amber Ramsay to the Show a mother of two from a small town in SK originally but moved to Calgary many years ago. She started fly fishing by taking a lesson from Jim and Lynda McLennan - something she always wanted to do…I’ve known Amber for over 20 years. She’s also a top real estate agent and loves her work.
BIO Toni: Welcome Toni Toplika to the show who’s been fishing since she could hold a fishing rod but added fly fishing only 2 years ago after going the Calgary Women’s Fly Fishing Club meet up - this is where she met Amber. I’ve know Toni for several years working on an enormous project together in our own fields and being some of the few women on this job - we became confidents and fast friends.
Toni Topilka is on the board of directors for the not-for-profit Calgary Women Fly Fishers, and a member of the not-for-profit Hook and Hackle club in Calgary, Alberta.
An avid angler since very young, Toni has fished many waters in Canada including Haida Gwaii and Sicamous in British Columbia, various lakes and rivers throughout Alberta including the Bow river, the Oldman and Livingstone rivers, also still waters in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario.
After a lifetime of spin-cast fishing, at the age of 50, Toni bravely took up a flyrod in 2018 after joining the CWFF club and with the encouragement of the membership, caught her first trout with a fly on the annual club campout at the Oldman river. Since then she has learned to tie flies and is eager to teach new club members how to tie their own flies at club meetings.
LINKS to some of the DEETS
The Fishing Hole
https://thefishinhole.com/index.cfm?action=contact.marketing
Fly Fisher Pro
Fly Fusion magazine
Fish Tails Fly Shop
https://fishtalesflyshop.com
Iron Bow Fly Shop
https://www.ironbowflyshop.com
Bow River Trout Fitters
https://www.bowrivertroutfitters.com
Out Fly Fishing Fly Shop
https://www.calgarysflyshop.com
Part Two Will be released tmro
episode 94 season 2
...another audiobook Wicca Magic
Wicca Magic: the starter kit: a beginner’s guide to start practicing wicca herbal magic, crystal magic, and candle magic. This is the second book I've narrated with this topic of Wicca and honestly I found them very interesting. I wouldn't say I'm a religious person but I do believe there's a higher being than just us humans, I also believe in protecting the plants and animals around me (my hamster is going on 5 and my cat is going on 19) - as well as being kind to nature, growing plants and food.
When you think of Wicca you'll likely think of the sensationalized roles Wicca's play in movies like a bad luck black cat or satanism, but truly it's a nature based religion reflecting on old traditions of paganism, spirituality and things like mid-wifery. I did find this book and the other Wicca book interesting to ready so I hope I'll teach you a little something today about this nature based religion
Introduction to Wicca Magic, take a listen
Chapter 1 Wicca General Overview: What it is - PioneersChapter 2 Wicca Herbal Magic: Herbalism, basic herbs and teas and herbal baths like to cleansing psychic channelsChapter 3 Wicca Candle Magic: The most in-depth chapter: The Power of Fire, roles of colours, candle fragrances, getting ready for spells, preparing your sacred alter, personal elements, candle magic, love and money spells, help to feel your best spells, how to charge your candlesChapter 4 Wicca Crystal Magic What are Crystals? Charging them, crystal elixir bath spall and clarity.
Conclusion to Wicca Magic, take a listen- here's chapter 4 all about crystal magic, what they are, charging them and more.
What did you think? Interested in learning more, there's a link to this book in my show notes and if you have a moment leave me a comment or a rating in audible.
episode 93 part 2 season 2
Michael Montgomery, as featured on...
Originally interviewed Nov 2019 in Studio 17 - the home of Valerie's Variety Podcast
Welcome to part 2 with my guest Michael Montgomery we will delve more into his podcasts and the episodes that have impacted him, the human side of life - again he CREATEs a vision for people and helps them fill their future with a home. He's such a neat guy - enjoy this last part of my interview with Michael Montgomery.
In Part two, we get down to why he podcasts and the episodes and guests he's like the most, man is Mike ever genuine guy, he re-listens to his own podcasts because he constantly learns from them. The human side of life, people sharing their challenges, issues can be shared and learned, plus the connection is so much deeper.
Check him and his podcast plus all the guest notes here
ideasandstuff.ca
a podcast for Calgarians
Jennifer LussierMitch Jacobson
Check out Part 1 as this is the continuation of this great episode.
episode 92 part 1 season 2
Originally interviewed Nov 2019 in Studio 17 - the home of Valerie's Variety Podcast
Todays show is about this guy Michael Montgomery, a Calgarian with a passion for finding people with passions - Which fits my theme of CREATE perfectly. We start the show kind of in the middle of a conversation about co-work space and he plugs a couple that I'll share with you, we talk about podcasting and our themes. We talk about our own podcasts and who to interview. He's really focussed and I'm just getting there - as you can hear my thoughts about 2020 and coming up with a theme. He's into motorcycles and computers - talk about diverse. Enjoy this episode getting to know a fellow podcaster, he's such a genuine guy. We seem to like the banter so I hope you enjoy listening to us chat today. Get to know me further also as once you're an interviewer - always an interviewer Michael asks me questions...
We talk about passions and real estate market, remember I recorded this in Nov 2019 when the market was totally different than it is today...
Shared Workspace:
Work NicerThe CommonsInnovate Calgary
We share a liking of podcasts here's the list we talked about:
Someone Knows SomethingDirty JohnShrink Next DoorBad Batch
Part 1 of 2 parts for this InterView
To my followers I've had so much inspiration for this theme and where to go as you know I've now found this theme...this antique store, called The Iron Crow I found a project here but the whole process of trying to figure out a theme or a brand...
Here's a link to this show that I'm referring to Calgary Cold Case 1976 Patsy McQueen and Eva Dvorak - still lingers with me all the time...I have a follow up show in the works for this story and will be updating you on this.
Thanks for listening to Part 1, where we kind of settle into our discussion, tmro will air part 2 where we get more into Mike and why he podcasts, some of his favourite guests and lessons learned.
ideasandstuff.ca
a podcast for Calgarians
What's so neat when he sells a home is he gets to know the people - it's less about the house and more about the future goals for the family - not just what's in front of you but what is to come.
episode 91 season 2
Simple guide to learn & practice Buddhism meditation. Improve your happiness & reduce your daily stress & anxiety with mindfulness mediation training.
As you know, I've been dabbling into the wonderful world of audio books, now publishing more than 20 titles, I'll feature these on my show every so often and maybe entice you to give a book a listen you wouldn't typically think of. Maybe it's Buddhism to improve your happiness, maybe it's Wicca and learn about this nature based religion - maybe it's about Keto the newest yet oldest way of eating. There's links to all of these books in my show notes. Enjoy listen and leave me a review if you feel so inclined.
Todays Feature is
Buddhism for Beginners: Simple guide to learn and practice Buddhism meditation. Improve your happiness and reduce your daily stress and anxiety with mindfulness meditation training.
In this book you will learn
Introduction - the different types of Buddhism: Schools, Theravada, Burmese, Mahayana, Nichiren, VajrayanaSpread of Buddhism and the course of events of the Dharma: Course of Events of the Dharma, Current Buddhism as in Buddhism todayImpermanence In Buddhism: principle of impermanence and what it is plus rehearsingThe Simple Guild to Learning: Right View of Life, Advantages of Right Understanding, a life plan, obstructions, unwinding, 5 precepts of controlling being careful with bias and propaganda, family life, practice of benevolence, liberating the mind, mindful breathing, confronting death with equanimity, the good buddhistPracticing Buddhism Meditation and types: Mindfulness, adoring kindness, empathy, grateful joy, composure practice, concentration meditation, zazen, reciting practices, TonglenMeditation Techniques for Beginners and Others: Concentration, Body Scan, Self Metta (loving kindness), Strolling, being Open, Qigong, Day by Day Task, Thinking While drivingMeditation Positions: Posture, positions for Beginners, Quarter Lotus Pose, Burmese Posture, Kneeling Meditation, Sitting in a chair, Lying Down, level flat on the ground, straight spine, full lotus, standing and strolling meditationAdoration and Kindness - cultivating an open heart, loving kindness, cherishing kindness, traditional betta meditation, cherishing kindness in daily life, How to Meditate: getting results and regular practiceMindfulness in Daily Life - mindfulness listening, careful listening, halting and listening, planned questions, reflecting backCareful Eating: Benefits, Techniques and reflections, when and the amount to eat and being tuned in when eatingMonkey Mind - what it is and working with it, perceive the monkey mind, utilize the breath, develop metta (loving kindness), practice self-compassion, notice reactions to monkey mind, use awareness triggers, practice mindful consumption
Yes there's a lot in this book but it is so valuable especially if you haven't given this religious practice much thought in the past. I know I haven't but I do reflect more on the mindful spirit now and being kind. No complaining, staying positive. Once time, someone said if you can think of something that made you smile - a few times a day - it sets you in a better mood. Think of this, a cute kitty or a dog, rolling around in their own moment, in the sun, doesn't this make you smile? See I told you! or how about this one...see a baby giggle yep gotcha, it makes you feel good.
Here'a preview of one of the chapters, enjoy
there's a link to this Audiobook, Buddhism for Beginners that I've narrated and produced on my blog - in these show notes so check it out and if you feel so inclined, leave a review! Follow me on Instagram - Facebook - Pinterest
episode 90 season 2
As featured on, The On Being Human Podcast
So, yours truly was recently interviewed on a podcast called On Being Human, host Brandi Fleck posted the question about have a near death experience on a fb group. I reached out saying no, but I saved a life!...here's what she wrote:
Valerie Moss of Calgary, Alberta Canada is a podcaster, hosting Valerie’s Variety Podcast. She’s an audiobook narrator for books you can find on Audible, and a wife and mom. She’s many amazing things, but what Valerie is not is a paramedic or healthcare worker. However, she’s saved a life anyways… while on her honeymoon… while wearing a string bikini. Hmm… what happened so that the stars aligned that the circumstances were what they were?
In this episode, you’re getting a truly heartfelt retelling of the time Valerie saved a life, and all the emotion that goes with it. By talking to Valerie, I learned that a person’s experience of certain events may be completely different than what you’d imagine, having never been in the other person’s shoes.
What you will get from listening to Valerie’s story is little glimpse into the heart of a fellow human. Every bit closer you get to each heart on Earth, the closer you get to understanding why we are the way we are and how we’re all connected.
What does being human mean to you?Valerie, we are here today to talk about that one time you did a little thing ;) - saved a life! Before we dive into that, please introduce yourself to our listeners. Who are you and what do you do?
This is a big question, but what is life story - what has life been like that makes you who you are today?What is the most important thing in life to you?How long ago did you save a life?Ok Valerie - please tell us the events of your whole story from beginning to end. What happened that resulted in you saving a life, from the beginning of noticing what was going on, why you decided to help, how you helped, and how it all ended?What emotions did you feel in the beginning, middle, and end of saving a life?Did any spiritual phenomena happen before, during, or after you saving a life?What happened in the days following?Do you think of this event often now in your life, and if so, what makes it come up?Do you still keep in touch with the person you saved, and if so, what is that relationship like? How has this event changed your life?Do you have any closing wisdom to leave for our listeners?
Please visit my show notes to a link to the full episode but as a favour I asked Brandi to share a 7min click for my listeners to review...check this out?
What did you think? Wanna hear more...Visit On Being Human show 44 for the full episode by clicking on the link in my show notes.
Have you had a near death experience either by an accident or surgery - do you want to share you story, let me know or get in touch with Brandi. She has an amazing gift of asking just there right questions...getting to the nitty gritty of the details and makes you wanna share...
Until next time,
as featured on, The On Being Human Podcast
episode 88 part 2 season 2
A Player with Paint
Since this new season is all about EAT | READ | CREATE this is the perfect time to not only interview an amazing creator but her name is also Valerie - enjoy part 1 of 2 over the next couple of days as we get to know this incredible painter Valerie Butters from Pemberton, BC, CANADA
We talk about her studio, places she worked and got fired - shameless, is a good word to describe this Valerie - she lived in Greece and is still connected to them...and Albanians and they are the toughest people she's ever met - lovely people. She speaks Greek in an Albanian tone. She turns the questions on me, once thing about Valerie's is - they love to asks questions too...enjoy part two and the final part of these episode with Valerie Butters...check out my site with maps of where she lives (wine country)and places she's lived for short spurts. Here's a bit of a disclaimer in this episode, a couple of swears are present and some of the content is adult only...be prepared to laugh your *asses off, we're a bit hard on her mom but it's all in good fun! And guess what, you'll learn a little about me to along the way...enjoy the show, visit the show notes for links and details as usual it's all on my website!
Valerie Butters amazing works of painted art!
Instagram @ValerieJMoss Pinterest @VJMoss and Facebook @ValerieSwainMoss
(Because this show was recorded in August of last year, there's been a wealth of changes in life since then as you know...And we both have very old cats her Mimi is 20 and my Tig will be 19 this year! and she also has a Jim-Bo)
episode 87 part 1 season 2
A Player with Paint
In this series on the show the ‘Valerie’s series where I’m combing through the Emily’s, Christine’s Danielle, Jennifer’s and Michelle’s looking for the Valerie’s of the world. I rarely come upon women with the same name as mine. Once in Calgary and she ended up being a Valora.
Since this new season is all about EAT | READ | CREATE this is the perfect time to not only interview an amazing creator but her name is also Valerie - enjoy part 1 of 2 over the next couple of days as we get to know this incredible painter Valerie Butters from Pemberton, BC, CANADA
Also if you follow her on Instagram you won't be disappointed she shares stories, her amazing works of art. her cat, Jim she's always providing commentary and life lessons, reflective comments oh year and so much humour!
Valerie Butters IG feed...incredible artist
Thank you for listening today and visit my show notes for details from todays show...also follow me on - the second part of this Valerie Butters showcase will be released tomorrow..stay safe at a distance people!
Follow me On:
Instagram @ValerieJMoss Pinterest @VJMoss and Facebook @ValerieSwainMoss
(Because this show was recorded in August of last year, there's been a wealth of changes in life since then as you know...And we both have very old cats her Mimi is 20 and my Tig will be 19 this year! and she also has a Jim-Bo)
The ultimate guide to Balancing and healing your Chakras, guided mindfulness meditation to open your third eye and radiate positive energy through reiki teaching - vagus nerve.
episode 85 season 2
Spring Finally, let's refresh some pillows!
Todays show is all about CREATING - freshening up for Spring with a finished quilt top and matching pillow cases - this pattern I'm going to share with you today will be available on my blog and details here...if you're not a sewer or a quilter, don't fret just pass this episode onto those people and they will be forever indebted with this valuable information JK, just showing a little Spring in my step today for you to share with your friend or family member that is a crafty sewer. - and yours truly will give away a set or two to whoever tells me their favourite Spring Story - it could be about easter, gardening, spring cleaning, you tell me and I'll make you a set of these pillow cases (in your favour colours and in the size of your favourite pillows - sound good?)
So..years ago I made this quilt, Truly Scrumptious by Cinderberry Stitches as part of my block of the month program when I ran Pastimes Online. This quilt was The date of this post was Oct 2010, yes so many years ago now. BUT when I made this quilt I was hoping to be pregnant this year and was secretly or openly hoping for a girl...
Well made the quilt, did get pregnant and then promptly tucked the top away for another day when I could finish it....well people this quilt is now finished with...matching pillow cases.
Tie ClosureTie ClosureSpring Pillow, #2Spring Pillow, #1Spring Pillows with matching Quilt, Truly Scrumptious
Step one fold, fold into 2press and fold together hiding the raw edgesince finished edge showingMaking the Ties
Made for LondonLove MomApril 2020my labels have changed to this style...can you see it?
FIRST
Dig out that old quilt top that you haven't finished :) then prepare to sit down & listen to a good book, I listened to a new book by Joy Fielding, The Bad Daughter and go through your thread stash, find your favourite colours to match and bobbins wound and enjoy your time finishing this new quilt...well new because it's been stashed for so long.
SECOND
Quilt until your hearts desire, and then bind, bind, bind...one of my favourite parts, I love this finishing touch, it's so rewarding, tucking in that final raw edge and completion the border, smooth and crisp.. But when it comes to a label I always groan, now I have to write something up and add a separate piece of fabric to the back - where to put it and make sure you don't stitch through to the front...
Here's another one I did years ago 2013 for my niece and I just love the way it turned out...if you can do free motion, you can do this label on the front of your quilt, just find a good spot and measure out your words (first) then just have fun. I pull the bobbin three to the front, leave it long then tied it scrappy, make sure you date it and put your name...especially if you want to show off all of your hard work ;)
label from the backfree motion quilting label, with tied endsfree motion quilting label idea, shown on front of quilt
THIRD
The Spring Pillow Cases...
These just turned out so cute, and were actually very easy, I haven't made pillow cases below, except some small ones with 1 fabric, but nothing scrappy and fun like these, London mentioned, since these were for her, that she would like ties :) I have a set of sheets that I decorated with ties and London just loves how these look - so... no problem we added ties.
Here's the Pattern
Measure your current pillow case - mine is 29" x 19" (one side)Pick out your fabrics, they can be matching or not (one for you and one for him, maybe?)If you are a quilter, you'll have fat quarters kicking around which measure 18" x 22" - notice anything? The 22" is basically the width you'll need including seam allowance, yes they might be an inch or so larger per side but this works, trust me it's perfectAs you can see in my example, I striped pieced these, you will need two of each strip to make this mirror on the front and backC...
...spending the day in Kensington after 18 days in isolation...trying to enjoy a normal feeling..
episode 83 season 2
Twenty - Twenty New Theme!
Happy New Year!
Studio Wall, diy project,
Welcome to SEASON TWO of Valerie's Variety Podcast for 2020. I'm looking forward to hunkering down into a theme, if you've been listening this whole time - Thank you, if you new welcome! Previously, I've been a random show a variety show and I'm going to continue this BUT with a theme EAT - READ - CREATE to explore.
This year, I'd like to narrow my focus and stay true to me, my passions and loves. I hope you'll stick around. One of my previous guests Valora Douglas said she has a theme each year so I'm kind of leaning on this thought.
Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss, this show is about Eating - Reading - Creating. How these 3 things influence us everyday and the people that make this happen - isn't it you?
How these 3 things influence us everyday - they make us TIC and THINK and LOVE
We will review our favourite recipes & favourites places to EAT. We will review our favourite books and what we love to READ. We will review our passions and what we yearn to CREATE.
So think about the things you are passionate about, a good meal, a great love story and DIY project. I'm passionate and will aim to convince you to read, try the next thing and have passion in what you do. This show drops on Tuesdays Check it out and subscribe and ReVIEW below check out the website for details ValerieMoss.ca
She Shoots She Scored!
It's funny as I thought about sharing my goals with you way earlier in the year I was sort of apprehensive because I wanted my goals to come true but I didn't want to share them and not follow through with them so now that I accomplished my goals. I said to my hubby my goals came true that I set for this year and I showed him my hand drawn sketch of these, check it out:
Yellow Belt checkOrange Belt checkOne big trip - checkPay off MasterCard - check100 episodes on the podcast - not checked but I didn't miss an episode either and 100 episodes would have meant extra ones ;)you can check out my doodle sketch soon at my blog for review..
You know what else? When you write your goals down - they come true! They remind you they push you - you want to impress yourself - it worked for me, make it work for you WRITE THEM DOWN!
Top 4 Goals for the Show in 2020
Passions Unfolded, I'm talking about hobbies that we love, quilting stitching, scrapbooking, CREATING, musicality, and the people who love them!Reading a good book and also listening to audio books - more audio books in production now...What are you reading, what's your favourite book? Your favourite author.Making a good meal (salmon with a side of spaghetti and seafood) or trying a new restaurant (Point Sushi) I'll still likely run my reviews altho there's so many reviews out there - I might just do U must try this!
I'm dedicating this year to people like you who have a love for trying something new like me starting Karate at 40, or my friend Amber who started fly fishing or my husband who loves to capture an emotion in a photograph or my daughter who has to trace our hands with hers all the time to draw her picture. I'm talking about a hobby that keeps you up for days on a DIY project like beading a quilt project with 25,000 beads. This type of passion.
EAT - READ - CREATE
A new story PODCAST
I'm also going to tell a story, a true story about a house that was haunted and the legend it became. Each episode I'll fill you in on another chapter, week by week, chapter by chapter. The story is set in the early 1940s - in Indiana, stay tuned for this it's a side job for me and I'm in love with it - even my husband is interested and as you know he barely listens to this show! He may have a word or two on the show.
Are you interested? I'm looking for creative talent for my cover art, voices to add - I have an actor from Vancouver who will be part of this - this will be separate from my p...
episode 82 season 1
Merry Christmas, love The Moss'
Welcome back for this Christmas special episode. Giving thanks, setting goals and a personal story.
Me, Valerie Moss and my special person London, Merry Christmas Everyone!
This year when we my hubby Jeff and I were discussing Christmas and where to spend it, we planned a trip to Mexico before the holidays, which I will share after when we get home. We were sitting around discussing this and Christmas is such a different time of year for me, When I was a kid I loved getting together and being with family - like emmersed in and around family, being busy with family. Since growing up and having a family of my own it's just different. London, my eight year old made me feel so good...as we were discussing plans for the holidays and possibly heading out of town for Christmas Day...she said," Mom, I like being home, I like when you decorate the house with your Christmas quilts, I like opening my gifts and stocking up here" Man do kids every make you feel good. This did it we are staying home and for once I'm looking forward to it on a big scale.
What are you doing for Christmas? Who do you like to be with and what do you like to celebrate. Do you have special baking. Special Songs and movies that get you in the spirit? Is it playing the Yule log on Netflix while reading a good book in bed, like The God's Chair?
New Traditions Anyone?
Christmas Tree Ornaments
Christmas Tree Ornaments feating London's School photo - best cards!
here's the hand pressed paper used for the back, it's parchment and has little designs
Love the layering, coffee sleeves, stickers, parchment and scrapbook paper, plus the hanging strap!
This year I started a new tradition, well only made it once so far BUT it's a keeper...so before I tell you what I did I'm going to tell you what I've done in the past. At the beginning of the school year, London gets school pictures like most of the kids - typically I send these out in a Christmas card with a note. Well once the kids get older they like to help with everything and now that London and read and write she's helping with this also.
sent to the cousins, aunts and uncles
So, I made her write a family list of names for the cards but instead of cards we made ornaments with her school photos. I used parchment paper, stamped with live flowers and pinched in certain ways creating designs like flowers, as the backing. I have these little cardboard frames, I collect coffee sleeves to use in scrapbooking, batches of Christmas stickers and started to layer and play with this. Check these out! they turned out so well. London write a small note telling almost all of the recipients that they were awesome and she loved them in her amazing 8 year old hand writing. Stuff these into an envelope and sent these off.
Christmas Chain Letter
Christmas Chain Letter, starting with my letter, and instructions for the next people
The other thing I did was create a Christmas chain letter...I know right? I had this idea, I wanted to have the feeling of family as when I was a child I loved having my Auntie Kathy's home to go to surrounded by my moms side of 5 siblings plus their kiddies and my dads side 7 siblings plus their spouses and kiddies at Christmas. So, since this doesn't happen anymore I thought we should do a chain letter...this is how it worked:
Don't forget to include details and your love note to YOUR Family!
First, I wrote a note with instructions (you read my letter, you write your note and update all of the family on your best things, then I wrote my letter, along with the instructions then I inserted blank paper and stamps to help encourage the next person to write their note, include it with mine and send it to the next family member. I included a list of people/family aunts uncles and cousins for ideas. At the end, send back to me (my address included) and I'd post this on socials for all to see...
Todays episode is part 3 and the final part in this interview with Valora Douglas and man did I enjoy myself and I sure hope she did too. She turns the tables on me asking about the signs and what they mean - being in the signage industry I do have a lot of knowledge on the meaning of signs for figuratively and literally.
Part 2 of this Valerie Series Segment with Valora Douglas continues and we are really getting into he good now people, she's so funny yet deep in thought. Enjoy todays episode.
Todays interview as part of the 'Valerie Series' holds a special place in my heart my very fist interview in my home studio. Valora Douglas sat in my new antique chair and we talked like old friend, truthfully, I didn't want her to leave. This Val is one of a kind, she's the only Val I've known in Calgary in the 20 years I've lived here, she's tall and outgoing and super fun to be around.
The book I was asked to produce was on a subject I'm not well versed in, the Wiccan Religion. I was however more inclined to read something out-loud that is in the vein of a guide or a manual to gain some experience. I wasn't sure about having another voice inflection for a character for example, a male. Maybe one day but today I'll stick with manuals, guides and maybe cook books lol, 1 cup of this and a sprinkle of that. If you're loving my voice, which I've heard from some of you - then you can listen and learn about Wicca if you feel so inclined to indulge in this magical world of Wicca and learn about the myths and truths on this nature based religion. I'll share some snippets of my book with you to entice you.
Todays Show is another segment in the Valerie Series, this Valerie Valdivia caught my eye off Instagram, when searching for Valerie’s her artistic flaire is so beautiful. I LOVE her style. Her Handle on IG is Uncanny Valerie - which is exactly how I’d describe her style An Uncanny ability to draw realistic with an edge - something is mysterious.
Welcome back to Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss, this show is about ReViews, InterViews and my DailyViews, it’s a story podcast about my life in Calgary. This show drops every Tuesday. Follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest
Todays Show is another segment in the Valerie Series, this Valerie Valdivia caught my eye off Instagram, when searching for Valerie’s her artistic flaire is so beautiful. I LOVE her style. Her Handle on IG is Uncanny Valerie - which is exactly how I’d describe her style An Uncanny ability to draw realistic with an edge - something is mysterious.
Without papers or ‘wop’ the name is derived from brash italian kids running the streets without papers - meaning without legal papers for being in the country. It’s a slur to the Italians. Nothing to do with pizza. And the ‘wop’ word isn’t actually used in reference either. They don’t even have their name on the menu, just a cool symbol and the WP noted discreetly.
episode 74 part 3 season 1
Whiskey & God, let's review this Great Book, The God's Chair.
E.C. Varga on Valerie's Variety Podcast discussing her new book The God's Chair
Episode 74
Previously On….Valerie’s Variety Podcast
Part ONE and Part TWO of the E.C. Varga InterView take a listen
Todays Show is Part THREE of this interView with ECVarga and her book The God’s Chair. What’s interesting is how deep we are getting to know this author, she’s a local Calgary Author. Lives just outside of the city on an acreage. She works at Chapters by day in all black attire - and is a black belt karate sensei teaching in the Dojo by night - dressed in all white - with her partner in crime, Erno (the E in EC Varga).
We are continuing on with our whiskey samplers from Canadian Club, to Gibsons, Jack Danieles to Crown Royal and finishing off with Fireball - we’ve covered these and this YA sci-fi novel. This book is stunning.
This show is about ReViews, InterViews and my DailyViews, it’s a story podcast about my life in Calgary. WhatEVER WhenEVER, this show drops Every Tuesday. Follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest
Don’t forget to check out the show notes for pictures, links to our socials and more. Thanks for listening, now on with todays episode!
Back to Chapter 1 - let’s fnd out more about this book 1 of 4, in todays, show, enjoy the episode.
Thank you for listening today and I hope you enjoyed our banter
You know, I’m a varacious reader altho it takes me a while to finish a book, I always have a good story on the go. I just love local authors and referencing familar places and cities within the book - it the connection to the story we are always looking for weather it’s the characters or the locations described in the book. If we can connect, we’re committed readers, rights?
The spider that Constance is referring to is call the Darwins Bark Spider. They build their web with the orb suspended directly above a river or the water body of a lake, a habitat that no other spider can use. This spiders silk is the toughest biological material ever studied, over ten times tougher than a sililarly-sized piece of kevlar. These are a spider of movies, with large females almost all black, with white hairs on their bodies legs of 1.4” long. and yes Constance was correct they can web a span of up to 3 meters.
After we were done the ‘interview’ part we just sat and kabitzed and this is really where the goods are — here’s some out takes rememeber we’re a few whiskey samplers in, finishing our last one and enjoying casual banter…take a listen to these clips…
Who am I
This show is written and produced by me, Valerie Moss, in Calgary, Alberta, the Valerie’s “Variety” name came from my husband and his wealth of knowledge when it comes to my love for change - I couldn’t be pigeoned holed into one genre thus the ‘ReVies|InterViews and My DailyViews in the opening of this show, as this is what the show is truly about and the focus is these three main headings.
Follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest
You can find Constance at ECVarga.com Instagram @ECVarga on Facebook @ECVarga
Todays show is Part TWO of The God’s Chair book review with Constance Varga. We investigate the protagonst Mike and where the scene of this book is set! The God’s Chair and their purpose of this. Each book to come after will have a major rock formation as the soul of the surroundings for the mystical magical chronicals.
Welcome back to Valerie’s Variety Podcast, this show is about ReViews InterViews and my Daily Views, it’s a story podcast about my life in Calgary. WhatEVEr WhenEVER, this show drops every Tuesday.
Find me at ValerieMoss.ca On Instagram @ValerieJMoss and Pinterest @VJMoss and Facebook @ValeriesVarietyPod
You can find Constance at ECVarga.com Instagram @ECVarga on Facebook @ECVarga
We are discussing her E.C. Varga’s new book called The God's Chair. Book 1 of the Weaver Chronicles. Constance Varga has become a very dear friend of mine in and out of the dojo.
This Valerie Segment is a series about the Valerie's, Val's, Valley's and whatever these amazing women go by, of the world. In this series I'm combing through the Jennifer's Michelle's and Cathy's, looking for the vivacious, tenacious and dubious Valerie's. Are you a Valerie get in touch with me - do you know a Valerie - tell her to connect. I'm looking for our common thread. I had the privilege of interviewing Valerie Martin, I found her through iTunes when searching for Valerie's for this series. She's a physiotherapist (she helps people change their behaviours and overcome problems). Things like past trauma, eating disorders, people pleasing, or self-destructive coping mechanisms, her purpose is to help, period!
In the next two episodes we are reviewing Sauce, Italian restaurant and market. Located 3326- 17 Avenue SW. This place is located in the Chorus Entertainment Building and is a weekly stop for us to curb our Truffle Popcorn craving. We enjoyed this place so much during our day date. The appetizers, the atmosphere including the chandeliers. Plus amazing conversation between me and my hubby. Enjoy the episode.
Episode 69 Part ONE
...truffle popcorn, my choice is better!
Welcome back to Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss, this show is about ReViews, InterViews and my DailyViews, it’s a story podcast about my life in Calgary. This show drops every Tuesday. Follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest
In the next two episodes we are reviewing Sauce, Italian restaurant and market. Located 3326- 17 Avenue SW. This place is located in the Chorus Entertainment Building and is a weekly stop for us to curb our Truffle Popcorn craving. We enjoyed this place so much during our day date - that this episode is broken up into two parts, part TWO will be released next week.
Sauce signature 'S'
I first went to this place with my GF Jenny she frequented it and we went for supper one night and ever since I wanted to bring Jeff there. So, we finally went one day while have a day date while London was at a bday party…it was worth it.
When you walk in there’s a great deli in one area with ready made meals, small cafe style of tabls ad chairs, Italians and others visiting and drinking espresso. Around this are there’s shelves stocked with Italian foods, sauces, pasta’s olives, italians sodas and more..the stage for the Pcon is highight by their signature bag of Metallic Red, it’s a lrage size and worth the purchase.
There’s crates stamped with their signature ’S’ in red. The sausages and curing meats are hanging yearning to be purchased an dmake into a charcuterie board. Cheses are chilled and sliced in take home wedges. Their dessert bar is so beautirul, corner ceramic stove, espresso machine, pastries and goodies gallore. Workers waiting to help box up your favourite sweets.
Once you mange to get by this stand, you can move into the waiting area for the restaurant and ‘wait to be seated’ We made a reservation…as wer’e siting and kabitzing the waitress pours our water…we enjoy settling in for the next hour or so. When we were heret it was still chilly out we have our new featherlite winter jackets on - as you can hear we are quite happy with them.
Sauce, Chandeliers
Calamari Lobster Risotto,
Here's what risotto is, think creamy rice but is’ no soupy it’s thick like a good cheesy pasta. Risottos is typicaly made with a lot of butter and cheese, you can make a roux also to help with the richness of this meal, ti’s very good when it’s prepred right
So my hubbys voice is a bit soft but he says, ravioli is not enough food - you know how Ravioli comes out, you get 4 squares place on a large plate - it’s sort of shoking when the price refects like 10 orders. So we pass on this altho it doesn sound good.
We settle on Calamarie to start 5:28
the waitress offeers us bread to sop up the pomodoro sauce I order the fuzili and Jeff orders the Risotto…we enoy thebeautifully decoarted restaurant and our wine…
Sauce's many chandeliers, so beautiful
6:11 the lights in this place are beautiful we are thinking of changing our lights out to somethig more spectaular then our modern, plane square globe style.Something to add some character. Like chandeliers…..
The Atmosphere
Jeff proceeds to tell a story about the mens washroom listen to this…6:52 so you walk in and there’s a long hallway giant square in the middle with one urnal in the middle of this - which would fit many urinal. he can just see the guy waiting for you. and then one bathroom stall. I too describe the bathrooms - yes the bathrooms are gorgeous.
Match Stick Quilt, made by me, Valerie Moss (this is our room today)
9:50 (after) so I started making thsi new10:33 quilt for us - for our bed so change things up a bit - you can see pictgures of this on my site but now I”m like erch - what? he doesn’t want this on our bed!!
1017 Jeff explains our quilt on uur bed… He’s right I made that quite testing out a contemporary technique, it ended up working perfectly to our room personality. Again pics of this on our website.
I had the privilege of interviewing Valerie 'Flexual', I found her through instagram @ValFlexual and like me she doesn't know any Valerie's. She's kind, she cares about the environment, she does her part. She has collected over 100 shark teeth. She's scared of fresh water lakes. She's a Sagittarius and she's never left South Florida. Enjoy our banter, at times she gives me the chills with her good vibes that I feel right through the microphone. She loves to love and gives back. She believes...
I had the privilege of interviewing Valerie 'Flexual', I found her through instagram @ValerieFlexual and like me she doesn't know any Valerie's. She's kind, she cares about the environment, she does her part. She has collected over 100 shark teeth. She's scared of fresh water lakes. She's a Sagittarius and she's never left South Florida. Enjoy our banter, at times she gives me the chills with her good vibes that I feel right through the microphone. She loves to love and gives back. She believes...
I had the privilege of interviewing Valerie 'Flexual', I found her through instagram and like me she doesn't know any Valerie's. She's kind, she cares about the environment, she does her part. She has collected over 100 shark teeth. She's scared of fresh water lakes. She's a Sagittarius and she's never left South Florida. Enjoy our banter, at times she gives me the chills with her good vibes that I feel right through the microphone. She loves to love and gives back. She believes... This 'Valerie' Series a series about the Valerie's, Val's, Valley's and whatever these amazing women go by, of the world. In this series I'm combing through the Jennifer's Michelle's and Cathy's, looking for the vivacious, tenacious and dubious Valerie's. Are you a Valerie get in touch with me - do you know a Valerie - tell her to connect. I'm looking for our common thread.
In Part THREE we will listen to more readings from Clare’s voice, on the Sparkstone, we’re focussing on book one but there is 2 more books currently available and 2 more in the works, so she reveals to us. We talk about Jadore one of the University professors, she has interesting skin and has a high up position within the whole ‘Collective’ Alien community. Welcome back to Valerie’s Variety Podcast, with your host me, Valerie Moss. This show is about ReVIEWS InterViews and my Dailys Views, it’s a story podcast about my life in Calgary. WhatEVER WhenEVER. This show drops every Tuesday! Follow me on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook
In Part TWO we will explore more reading about this book, and sega called Sparkstone, we’re focussing on book one but there is 2 more books currently available and 2 more in the works…We talk about her connection to the Canadian references, it’s so neat to read a book and know where she’s talking about. We talk more about Clare and how she made her way west from her home so far East. Like we’re talking across country literally. Plus her shows to promote her book are across country, this girl puts on miles. Welcome back to Valerie’s Variety Podcast, with your host me, Valerie Moss. This show is about ReVIEWS InterViews and my Dailys Views, it’s a story podcast about my life in Calgary. WhatEVER WhenEVER. This show drops every Tuesday! Follow me on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.
Todays show will be spread over several parts as I'm InterViewing Clare. C Marshall, Author of my latest read. The Sparkstone Sega a Young Adult Science Fiction series about superheroes fighting a secret alien invasion at a university in Alberta, Canada. This book has incredible artwork on the cover(s), wistfully details the school, the characters and the location connections like Macleod Hall. I was so enamoured with the writing I wanted her to be on my show! Here's how this happened. Welcome back to Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss. This show is about ReViews, InterViews and my DailyViews, it’s a story podcast about my life in Calgary. WhatEVER | WhenEVER, this show drops every Tuesday. Follow me: Instagram @ValerieJMoss Pinterest @VJMoss Facebook @ValeriesVarietyPod
Todays episode is the start of a new series on the show the ‘Valerie’s series where I’m combing through the Emily’s, Christine’s Danielle, Jennifer’s and Michelle’s looking for the Valerie’s of the world. I rarely come upon women with the same name as mine. Once in Calgary and she ended up being a Valora.
Respectfully called 'Valerie' where yours truly will be interviewing and getting to know the Valerie's-Val's-Valley's and whatever these beautiful ladies might go by - of the world. I rarely come upon Valerie's in my personal or business life and why is there so few of us with this amazing name?
Todays episode I’m goig to review Point sushi. 34:09 You order on an Ipad pick your favourite and they come shooting out on a streamlined system at bullet speed beside you - watch your fingers and enjoy the episode. Welcome back to Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss this show is about ReViews, InterViews and my Daily Views. It’s a story podcast about my life in Calgary, WhatEVER | WhenEVER. The show drops every Tuesday. Instagram @ValerieJMoss Pinterest @VJMoss Facebook @ValeriesVarietyPod
Photos by Jeff is a new segment on my podcast, Jeff being my hubby for almost 20 years is an incredible photographer. I'm in awe of the emotion he can capture with the click of a finger. He's been shooting stills for the better part of his life, capturing the year book in High School is where he made his start. He still has this camera! His passion shows through his photography at every snap! Mom & Daughter team, a shy dog, birds steeling berries. You get a feeling, you want to be there.
This is Crazy April Snow Day, written and produced by Valerie Moss, photo by Jeff Moss check him out on IG @ Jeff Moss
Today I'm sharing a ReView of my hairdresser, Cre8tive Hair, located in a strip mall just off McKnight and Edm Trail. Why I go here and why I recommend this place!
Welcome back to Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss this show is about ReViews, InterViews and my Daily Views. It’s a story podcast about my life in Calgary, WhatEVER | WhenEVER. The show drops every Tuesday. Today I’m sharing my first hand experience of The Calgary Stampede, the greatest outdoor show on Earth - or so they say. Stampede is coming up and we, Calgary are bracing ourselves for the chaos to ensue. Starts July 5th ends end of day July 14th. Boasting rodeos, mid-way rides, prizes, show home, super dogs, free concerts. Plus all the pancake breakfasts you can take in and the night life doesn't end.
Today I'm sharing my ReView of a night out at a gritty grounded bar called the Blues Can, located at Inglewood 1429 9th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alberta. Boats some great bluesy acts from across the globe. Think dark suits, 40's polished shoes, harmonica and good vocals that sooth you. Feeling music in your bones...taking your mind somewhere else. This place is great.
Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss this show is about ReViews, InterViews and my Daily Views. It's a story podcast about my life in Calgary, WhatEVER | WhenEVER. the Show drops every Tuesday. Follow me on Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook Instagram @ValerieJMoss Pinterest @VJMoss Facebook @ValeriesVarietyPod
Todays show is about a group of women who came together to sew their stories of life, kids, marriage - amazing! Talk to you next Tuesday
Two minute Tuesday TMTs Segment I'm featuring my favourite body scrub - a quick and dirty cheap body scrub.
Today I'm sharing my ReView of Brekkie Cafe, located at 120 120 Westpark Way SW. Brekkie Cafe boasts - A Glorious Break in Your Day! It's a beautiful Cafe high ceilings, lots of windows and light. The food is fresh, wholesome and beautifully displayed on the plates.
episode 53 season 1
Who doesn't like fresh bread and butter, yummy!
Today I'm going to share my bread recipe. This is what I like about my 'variety' show, it allows me the platform to share stories about WhatEver-WhenEver and provides you with randomness of information.
Welcome back to Valerie’s Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss this show is about ReViews, InterViews and my Daily Views. It’s a story podcast about my life in Calgary, WhatEVER | WhenEVER. The show drops every Tuesday.
Follow me on Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook
Instagram @ValerieJMoss
Pinterest @VJMoss
Facebook @ValeriesVarietyPod
5 years ago Subway made headlines, not for their great tasting sandwiches, not for their over 33,000 locations beating McDonalds by over 1000 but for the chemical used in their bread. Their staple ingredient, the mere platform that everything at Subway relies and lies upon - their bread. This bread contains very bad ingredients. Referring to this ingredient by the tag-name of "yoga-mat". The chemical name is azodicarbonamide or ADA which btw is contained in over 500 recipes and not just bread. In the plastics industry ADA is the chemical foaming agent. It is mixed into polymer plastic gel to generate tiny gas bubbles, something like champagne for plastics. The results are materials that are strong, light, spongy and malleable - like a yoga-mat.
This got me thinking, I did some research on a loaf of bread in any grocery store and I was pretty educated on the amount of chemicals in the everyday bread we buy in a grocery store and most of them contained azodibarbonamide - not just Subway!
So, I decided right then and there that I would start making my own bread. Jeff was on board. Who doesn't like a fresh loaf of bread smelling good and tasting even better. We even have a song 'jam bun jam bun' and it goes to the jingle of old Cops shows. bad boys bad boys whatcha gonna do...I digress.
Bread Machine
We purchased a bread machine as I knew better then to try and time rising. This bread machine isn't anything fancy, it's the Cuisinart Bread Machine. You can purchase it on Amazon for about $160 and if you're a prime member shipping is free. I bought ours about 5 years ago at Home Outfitters - for $200 but according to their website all stores are closing and they have huge sales so you might be able to pick one up from there for a good price.
Since I've had this bread maker I've made 2 loaves a bread a week, sometimes more but this is pretty typical. That’s over 520 loaves of break with this same machine.
You must put the ingredients into the bread maker or your mixing bowl in this order and this recipe is for a medium size of loaf. I found this to be the best size for the bread machine.
French Bread Ingredients - Standard White
Water, Table Salt, Bread Flour, Measuring Cups & Spoons, Amaranth Flour (maybe)
(x1) Cup, (x1)TBsp of water - room temp (I actually use the water from the Keurig holding tank)(x3) 1/4 teaspoons white table salt(x2) Cups, (x1) 1/3 Cup, (x1) TBsp of Bread Flour - I use bread flour as it's seems to rise the best and taste the best. You can use all purpose but it's not as good, in this picture on my site I'm showing a small bag of Amaranth flour, I will sometimes add a Tbsp of this within the cup measurement of the bread flour just adds a different element.make a well in the flour to add your yeast(x2) Teaspoons of Dry Active Yeast
Then set your Cuisinart bread machine to menu 5 - French Bread, and in 3:15mins you'll have warm hot-made bread.
ReView of the Cuisinart Bread Machine
Since I've had this bread machine for so long I love it, it does what it needs to do and is very reliable. It's noisy as it mixes away, beeps to add ingredients and to take the paddle out. It's looks good on the counter and it has these great rubber feet that secure it while it does it's mixing. It has 15 menu options, you can even make jams.
Todays show is about my first courtroom experience and the people I shared this with. I was by proxy along for the ride.
I'm a Daughter without a Mother. Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss this show is about ReViews, InterViews and my Daily Views. It's a story podcast about my life in Calgary, WhatEVER | WhenEVER. the Show drops every Tuesday. Follow me on Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook Instagram @ValerieJMoss Pinterest @VJMoss Facebook @ValeriesVarietyPod
Todays show is about growing with an absent Mom. Being a Mom and those people who impact me and you through Motherhood. Remember who matters to you...be the person who matters to this person. Talk to you next Tuesday
a year in the making for Valerie's Variety Podcast...thanks for tagging along with me on Tuesdays.
episode 46 season 1
a personal story about mental health...
Welcome back to another episode of Valerie's Variety Podcast, this is a follow up to a previous show, episode 35 Mental Health Podcast Challenge where I told an intimate story about how we all suffer from Mental Health at one time or another in our lives. For those of you who are new to my show, I thought I'd share this episode again, plus it's a good reminder to be a little extra patient, call a friend that you haven't heard from for sometime be a little better of a person.
The person who put the request out back in January is an acquaintance in my Calgary Podcasting community, his name is River - great name hey? He lost his sister to suicide recently and since this change of life moment he's been a huge advocate of mental health in our community (and abroad I'm sure).
Insert episode here...What did you think of this? Mental Heath Podcast Challenge - Accepted! They chose me and I received a little kit by a local company called Stresscase (great name hey) containing all sorts of lovely items:
Golden Milk: It's a powder you mix with your favourite "milk" coconut oil, MCT oils, or butter, heat and simmer...ingredients are Tumeric, Ginger, Pepper & Cinnamon - I have't tried this yet but it's supposed to reduce inflammation, support brain and joint health and calm digest issues...oh it's a deep mustard colour - stunningLoving Bath Bomb: self explanatory however, it's a flat disc style about the size of a hockey puck!Rose Quartz Meditation Crystals: to reduce anxiety with a little note of step by step instructions about how to calm your mind. These little gems are soft sided, when they touch each other it's a beautiful 'tap' soundBarefoot venus, Gingerly Green Tea Cleanser: packed with skin loving extracts of White Pine Bark, green Tea, Ginseng, Bearberry and Licorice.
Thank you StressCase for this lovely kit. Plus it was hand delivered to my home! Check out the StressCase Story - it's so amazing, a Mother-Daughter Team came up with this. Check out my blog for all of the pictures of my goodies. Thank you to River and his team for choosing my blog/podcast amongst the entries. I had to reflect on this challenge but having a voice and platform to share my story, will hopefully encourage you to share yours. To me, a stranger, to your friend, to your colleague, if you need to share your story and get it off your chest, do that- it's healing. You know what else is a great outlet, write your future self a letter. I used this method/outlet a lot growing up to get my feeling off my mind and stored securely in my journal...when I had my daughter I used journalling as my psychologist...except I did the writing with pen.
Talk to you next Tuesday
episode 45 season 1
a thank you letter...
Welcome back to another TmT episode of Valerie's Variety Podcast, if you haven't listened to last weeks episode this is a follow-up.
London and I spent a day at Colour Me Mine in Kensington, I did this post and shared our experience because we had a really great time. We love going there and it was an honest ReView of this incredible experience. Barring the 'rude' lady, that decided to air her feelings about kids in a room full of kids united with their families. This place didn't disappoint, we had a great time and have a cherished piece of hand painted pottery to mark our day!
I shared our experience through their online contact form and JJ the owner of this particular Colour Me Mine location. The response was so great I could barely read it without tearing up. As you know I like to spread positive experiences...if you've been pondering to go here with your bestie - here's the environment and the owners goal for this place:
Hello Valerie,Wow, that's so sweet of you! I loved it! You brought a tear to my eye, it truly makes what we do so worth it when we hear back from the very people we do it for and it truly touched my heart. I love what I do, never feel like I'm working really! Most favourite parts are the kiln reveals and seeing smiles while painting and of course at pick up! I'm so happy you enjoy your experiences. Thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing the good vibes. We aim to please and are happy to do so! Our customers are amazing and we are happy to provide a creative outlet to allow imaginations to sore. I'm disappointed about the comments of the pick up client (especially being a mother to 3 myself) (I had no idea that was said) however we never truly know the experiences of others and what would have caused her to say such things. I apologize on her behalf and hope you only feel/hear positive energy when at Color Me Mine.I would like to personally meet you hopefully someday soon and thank you in person,Look forward to seeing you soon,Take care and much gratitude! <3Best,JJ
Talk to you next Tuesday!
The atmosphere feels good in there, you can almost feel palpable creative energy all around us...and then this women comes in. What makes a person speak out like this? Why would she feel so much resentment to feel proud to make this sort of derogatory announcement? I reflect on this moment now as I write this and feel bad for her. I feel sad for her having this type of outlook. She was someone kid once - was her previous life as a child not one to want to remember?
episode 43 season 1
Tig is the star of this episode
Welcome back to another episode (vvp43) of Valerie's Variety Podcast and this week we are discussing a recent experience we had with Vets To Go.
Lately we’ve been struggling with our furry friend in the house. Our 17 year old cat Tig is going through some life changes. I had googled aging signs in cats as I’ve definitely seen her showing some signs of aging like: moving more slowly, eating less hard food, I’ve inteofuced some wet food, sleeping a bit more than usual. Also not hearing and seeing as well. She’s always been very affectionate purring likes to sit on my lap - she’s my cat for sure. Google noted a few things like eating less, showing signs of weight loss and honestly she has started to feel a little bit bonier lately.
My husband had suggested that maybe it’s time for a vet visit. It's been a few years since I took her to the vet well maybe like 5 years. So yes it is indeed Time.
Some of the signs that we were up against are:
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howling in the night take a listen to this
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missing her litter box
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peeing on the carpet
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vomiting a bit more than usual
Hae you struggled with your cat and some of these issues. What have you done that has worked?
Tig Moss
On our daily commute we drive by a Vets to Go business so I thought I’d give them a try. We were driving out to the mountains while having this discussion about going to a vet and I thought about this option. I went into their website and filled in the forms- scheduled a visit right from my car! How easy was this? I also read a few reviews on this company and you know mostly it’s about home euthanasia putting your pet to sleep in the comfort of their home- BUT they do all sorts of vet service - mobile. Great concept hey?
This most welcoming Vet showed up At my home on time and with such a great attitude. Really put me at ease and no ‘white coat syndrome’ off the start anyway. She proceeded to talk me through the process and how this works at home. She asked me for some background details. Take a listen.
We set up right in my kitchen on the island. The Vet Ask me to lay a towel out. And find the cat.
Then I couldn’t find Tig! I went looking for her all over 11:09 upstairs downstairs I checked under the beds oh man! Shaking her treat dish calling her name where the heck was she?? I finally find her
The Vet proceeded to check her out and snuggle her up. I think Tig lost like 14 handfuls of fur while she was there.
"Did you know you’re so pretty she says to Tig"
She puts Tig into this grocery style of bin. You know like from Safeway hard sided bin that collapses with handles. It’s attached to a scale. Tig gets in here and we weigh her as a team!
She jumps out. Like any female didn’t want to see the weigh in results!!
Good explanation for the yowling hey? She wants to look at our litter boxes.Ugh I wasn’t expecting this but here goes nothing! For her age she’s looking pretty good! That made me feel like I’m doing the right things
As a follow up to this CBD option, we've started using this since we had the Vet visit and we haven't noticed any change in howling...but maybe it's making Tig more comfortable and not so arthritic.
Can you hear my voice start to quiver...yep I'm that pet owner, nervous for the bad the news...
Character of the Vet
She good at changing the topic and making me feel at ease hey? What a nice person, so we proceed to setup and take blood from Tig who by the way became very feisty. But in the end is all worked out. And true to what the Vet said, Tig did stay around afteward and hang out with us - strange , she didn't bolt up the stairs to hide. She stayed and was part of the remainder time. That's all for my recording with the vet, I did bleep out her name to save her privacy as I didn't ask her permission for this recording. However, I think if this is any indication of the kind of person she is - it bodes well to the type...
episode 42 season 1
Hi Everyone, welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast this week is Housekeeping episode (vvp42). First I want to say thank you for taking the time to choose this podcast and hanging out with me on Tuesdays. This drives me to continue to produce podcasts every week. I've surpassed 40 episodes (some still scheduled to be released) and already building the content for my birthday episode.
Highlights from Episodes 1 thru 12
So can I ask a favour of you?
Could you take one minute and pause this podcast and select a review on your podcast app or iTunes...I'll wait, go ahead lol. I know all of the podcasters ask this us of listeners, me included. It's means more now than ever to write a review. For me, if I don't get feedback I never know if I'm doing a good job or not - I see my download numbers but who are these people anyway? I recently took my own advice and posted a very positive review on google and shared it with the person that did this great job! Guess what? I made her day as she knows she did a good job that made my day. Win Win, right? See how valuable this kind of easy thing is?
Also, would you mind to share this episode with one of your friends? When you look at the podcast through your smartphone's app select the 3 little dots/icon, this will bring up some options and one of them is share...please share THIS episode with just one of your friends - just one. Your sister, your Auntie, your cousin...you get the idea.
I'm including a promo clip from our first 1-12 episodes. For those of you who are new check this out, for those of you who've been with me from the beginning - thank you and check out this recap. If you've been with me from the beginning what's your favourite epidsode?
If you want to text me your comments I'll read them on a future episode, or give me some feedback I'd love to hear from you - did you know you can text me to my email, valerie@valeriemoss.ca. This show in still an organic podcast a variety show that is based on whatever - whenever. Where I share reviews, news, history, personal stories. Are you're enjoying this flow and randomness at the same time.
My favourite parts listening to this clip are...plactic cheese - hiding something on their person. Love hearing these different voices I go back to this place where I was at the time of these
Thanks for listening, the intro and outro for this podcast is recorded by London Moss, the intro for the promo clip is recorded by Janice Wilby. Theme music is produced and written by Jason Schnell titled Tascam 40.
episode 41 season 1
Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast About recent getaway to the mountains. One of my most favourite things is being outside when the weather is cold and brisk but the sun is lighting up the day. With barely a cloud in the sky and it's so cold and crisp under your feet.
Lake Louise
First stop - Lake Louise, 2 hours north west of Calgary nice drive into the park. Once you pass Canmore of brown lands we were becoming suspicious to the rumours about the snow, but as soon as we passed the park gates Snow Snow Snow
Check out my site for some videos of our drive the day was amazing to travel the abundance of snow hanging on the fence stumps looking like mushroom tops was incredible - this is snow. Also the Chinook arch was beaming with delight. A site to see if you’re not from around here our Chinook arches are a staple here in the mountains swinging our temperatures from minus 10 to plus 10 over night. Feels like spring when we’re in our coldest season.
Listening to the people enjoying the snow, skating on the majestic Emerald Lake, hiking, The mountains are encapsulating us from every direction. the sound, is solid. The 80 cms of snow or 31 inches absorbs the sounds. It's really quite amazing, if you stop to listen when it snows it's almost silent.
Me with my family, we enjoyed the scenery capturing a few memories, smiling at all the tourists, people skiing, kids digging into the snow, jumping. Dogs loving it up. Being with like minded people who appreciate a good picture in the freshest air.
Aren't cameras fun...seeing all the people capturing this moment with loved ones, clicking their cameras big and small to get this moment, to savour this moment just like us.
You know what's amazing to me is people from all over the world are enjoying the same place as me - in my country, my backyard...I don't know what they are saying but you can just imagine...this are is beautiful, take a picture of me over here...
From Ice Castles that you can stand in and have a drink in complete with bartender, take pictures peeking out through the windows - yes inside the ice castle. Surrounded by the most in credible 6 mountains. When you stand outside the hotel and looking from left to right the mountains are:
Fairview Mountain
Aberdeen (which kind of hides behind Fairview)
Lefroy
Victoria (the big one in the centre)
Whyte (with Mount Niblock connected to its right)
St. Piran
We walked all around this amazing place. Nestled within these mountains, this chateau and can't you hear is so quiet with people just taking it all in around us. Taking family pictures. Savouring this experience.
What time is it? I don't know I say...when I'm on vacation or holidays or away from my busy life I like to loose track of time...this helps me unwind and be in the moment, whenever and whatever I'm doing.
Dig out your boots, your snow pants, favourite warm mitts and toque head to the mountains, get that fresh air on you and in you. This my friends, heal souls and refreshes minds to undertake your next challenge. This is my happy place. What’s your happy place? Why how does it make you feel is it a thing, a song, a person share this with me.
Banff Park Lodge
Next Stop ....checking into the Hotel, we've always wanted to Stay at the Banff Park Lodge located on Lynx Street between Wolf Street and Caribou Street - see the theme here? It's boasting many flags on the outside of the building. True to Banff's style it's rock and wood and feels good inside - at the time we were there it was still decorated like Christmas - the trees were as tall as the ceilings over 20' - stunningly decorated . Although we booked our room online. Here's our checking in experience.
Like all checkins you need to park your car and mosey up to the reception desk to check in...our gal was lovely....hair dryer to room..so funny.
Parking is underground, in a warm basement, daily parking is advisable,
episode 40 season 1
Swim a length, perform your best KICK - feels good right?!
Extra Curricular Activities from golf, to swimming, to basketball, cycling, to bowling and photography...What's your preference? This week on Valerie's Vareiety Podcast we are talking sports and extra curricular actives for your kids and maybe even you! I'm your host Valerie Moss...Enjoy the episode.
What do you have your kids in for extra curricular activities? From gymnastics, to soccer, hockey, swimming, golf - what's you or your kids activity preference and why?
Gymnastics
London's quite a small girl and has always been so we thought gymnastics would be good to build up those core mussels and balance in the younger years. She was in gymnastics for about 4 years with back to back sessions. Not competitive but still skill driven and building endurance, balance and passion for the sport. We took her to Flip Factory just off 4 street NE. She went consecutively with her friend Sophie until recently as plans change people moved life adjusts. We noticed many benefits of Gymnastics, for one it provided her the agility and 2 strength that has benefited her with her other sports.
Gymnastics is a good basis for any sport as it gets you familiar with your muscles, posture and power. When you are small, these things matter even more.
Karate
In Valerie's Variety Podcast Episode 5 we caught a robber in our garage - we came upon him and chased him down the back alley - it was un-nerving and scary. this lead to a renewed discussion about Karate for London. She's so petit we wanted her to build confidence, strength and learn to defend herself. We purged forward in getting London into karate, subsequent burglar noted event!
This is the second activity she is in...she's committed to it, still a white belt but moved up from 'chops' and is purging forward to get her yellow belt, And since I take her every week, instead of sitting and facebooking, working or listening to podcasts I've decided to join in on this amazing sport. Yes at my age and being a female I wanted to show by example and get into shape also. plus maybe learn a skill or two, and hopefully defend myself along the way - honestly I hope I never need to put this to the test. Plus I think it's something good that we can do togehter, she's pretty proud of this - we'll see how it unfolds.
Where and how much $
This particular class on Thursday nights held in Mount Pleasant Community Rec Centre is ran by a husband and wife team. They are incredible and made me feel at ease making this decision. Part of the acku All Canadian Karate Union (http://www.acku.org) practicing the Traditional Skokotan Karate in Alberta and British Columbia. What's nice about belonging to this club is you can train at any of the facilities and training clubs around the city - it's part of your monthly fees. And at $55/person or $95/family of two or more that's a pretty good rate for 2 classes per week or as many as you can fit into your shedule...
Do you or would you take any classes with your kids? There's a parent in this karate class that has two kids involved in it as well. One thing is, when you're in class with your children you are separated, and as a result you are not the parent during class time. The Sensai has control as the instructor. So that's a nice break also. But I do like being in this class with London, she has 7 months of experience into this than I do so she feels very knowledgeable and shows me things - I love it!
One of my clients believes that team sports is the only way to go. You need to be a team in life you need to keep your 'bench' full he would say. Growing up I wasn't into sports but I worked from a young age, therefore I proved to be a good team player. What about you? We have friends/family that live through their kids sports, hockey and soccer plus baseball and golf. To me, that's just a bit too much for these small people,
episode 39 season 1
Welcome back to another episode of Valerie's Variety Podcast, V-Squared and a secretive recording of a taxi ride I took recently...hope you're okay with a little eavesdropping. I'm usually quite chatty with my UBER or Taxi Drivers - insert annoyance here. BC doesn't have UBERS - would you please get with the times!! Anyway, here's a story about an interesting Taxi Driver - yes he's from Pakistan, money conscious, doctors for parents, arranged marriage and more...
Take a listen...
Taxi Cab Convo
His parents are both doctors - his home food is better than any food in a restaurant - don't we agree with this? Village food is so natural and good - he even said queen elizabeth never has never been luck to have this food.
Huge family but he's the only one here in Canada - he feels lonely. He's a people person as you can tell he's very friendly. Never liked firing people - always felt bad and didn't like this part of the job wanted something more. He wanted freedom.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pakistan
Pakistan is the 6th most populous country, along the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman, in the south it's bordered by India and to the East, Afghanistan to the west and Iran to the southwest and of course China to the north
insert this at 269
Benazir Bhutto Benazir Bhutto (Sindhi: بينظير ڀُٽو; 21 June 1953 – 27 December 2007) was a Pakistani politician who served as Prime Minister of Pakistan from 1988 to 1990 and again from 1993 to 1996. She was the first woman to head a democratic government in a Muslim majority nation.
lady priministor in pakistan
Insert at 363
to travel from Pakistan to England for Higher Studies it's an 11 hour plane ride, one would travel Start: Pakistan, fly over Turkmenistan, over Turkey, Over the Urkraine, over Poland and then land in England. From Pakistan to England
Insert at 393
Never allow him, I wonder what this would be like to be not allowed to practice medicine because your Grandfather said. If I was a doctor and not a overworked project manager - my grandfather would have said - get to practicing!
Insert at 404
Don't pay? what a humble way to run a practice how kind is this man? A dental practice here in Canada and especially Calgary have some of the highest rates in dentistry, if you couldn't pay you likely cannot go to the Dentist.
Insert 428
Don't we all feel like this growing up? Compare this moment, and what he said to your life? We think our parents make money but why can we get all the things we want when we are kids. I know when I grew up with a single dad money was tight altho my dad worked two jobs and went back to school when we were just young kid - so he could earn more. Reflecting back now money can only go so far and needed to be put to bills and groceries first then the more fun things in life came after the priorities.
Insert at 438
doctors become brutal Raymond says, 60% of women in Pakistan have caesarean operation, doctors become brutal who give them that. Research shows this is a global problem or assistance depending on which way you look at it. Is much more common even in our country to be scheduled for a c-section, it's planned, the date is provided, it's on the doctors scheduled. a natural birth the date, time and doctor is out of our control.
Insert at 461
Not sure where he got this information but According to April of 2018 BC tops the country in caesarean birth - TOPS the country. He was leading me to believe that they were low, I know Calgary is on the rise from going through the birthing process myself having a natural birth and seeing my sister deliver her to babies - they pressured her to deliver by c-section in both cases and we had to to support and fight against it as both mother and child were not in distress - this was purely out of convenience to the doctor.
https://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/b-c-tops-country-in-caesarean-section-rates-federal-report
episode 38 season 1
Concrete @ The Glenbow Museum
Two Minute Tuesdays Cover Art...
Todays Two Minute Tuesday we are looking at Calgary Street Art. Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast, with your host me, Valerie Moss todays show is short and sweet. I'm calling these Two Minute Tuesdays or TMT's. As I've been doing more and more research for my episodes and working full time, it doesn't leave enough in the kitty to record and produce timely, so instead of releasing less often I've decided to do these short spurts in between the full episode segments. Let me know what you think. My focus as always will be Calgary, this great city, and all that's captured within it.
Enjoy the episode.
cast art piece reflecting Calgary heritage
http://www.avenuecalgary.com/City-Life/A-Brief-History-of-Calgary/
Did you know the concrete murals on the side of the Glenbow museum facade are by artist Robert Oldrich. These are made of cast cement. The thoughts behind these are reflective of our city, cowboy hat, oil derrick, and our infamous chinook arch. Robert came to our great city and mixed his sand and water creations for us to enjoy, more of his work is plastered on other buildings like: Bishop Grandin High School, the previous location of the Calgary Central Library and others. He immigrated to Calgary in 1951 from the Czech Republic he past away in 1983 in the USA leaving many pottery, printmaking, mosaics and sculptures behind for all of us to enjoy - thank you Robert.
Thanks for listing to our TmTs on the Vsqared podcast. the intro and outro for this podcast is recorded by London Moss and the music I chose today is true Heart Procussion...if there's something about Calgary or someone in Calgary that you'd like to know more about send me a note text or email to Valerie@ValerieMoss.ca
Avenue Magazine
http://www.avenuecalgary.com/City-Life/Detours/Work-of-Art-Concrete-Murals-Untitled-by-Robert-Oldrich/
episode 37 season 1
Loco Parentis: Student vs Institution
Loco Parentis
School Cases in court. I'm going to highlight a few stories that have resonated with me over the last few months. I recently attended a safety discussion at my daughter's school. This discussion once completed brought a few other schools names and how safety played a big role along with the trust we put into the education system to keep our children safe. The amount of responsibility we put onto this institution these teachers without really realizing it. Loco Parentis meaning the teachers take the place of the parent. Now would a teacher dive in front of a bus to save your child maybe but not likely however this does mean the teacher would protect the child from bullies, assist in making the right decisions, properly assisting them with risky manouvers, etc. They are in place of a parent at school or institutional setting, looking out for the best interest of the child, your child.
Story One
June 22, 1981
Myers v Peel Country Board of Education, Ontario
Erindale Secondary School grades 9, 10, 11, 12 is part of the Peel District School board. There had been a number of the students in the gym during the regularly scheduled physical education class, there was an adjacent room setup for gymnastics and the kids in this room were trained specifically for gymnastics using the equipment that was setup. There usual teacher was away sick and the substitute teacher in the main room and approx 40 students at the peak time with class crossovers. One student trained in Gymnastics asked if his friend - not trained in gymnastics could play in this specialized room. There was approx 8 kids in this unsupervised room training gymnastics maneuvers for grade marking. The student un-trained proceeds to try out a gymnastics tactic on the rings and - succeeded. Then he tried an exceptionally hard backflip dismount and landed improperly - inadequate mats, inadequate spotters and inadequate supervision ensued. Due to the added disadvantage of poor training he was severely injured and as a result became a quadriplegic by a broken neck. There was no teacher present nor did the friend teach the kid what he needed to learn - in this short amount of time - to follow through with this exercise properly and safely. The trained friend didn't know what the un-trained friend was about to try out so he couldn't a) warn the kid and b) provide proper spotting.
During the court hearing it was discussed that the trained student was 20% liable and the un-trained now severely disabled student was 80% liable. This is showing ownership is put on the person who committed the fault- torts-Negligence; tort meaning suing for personal damages and negligence meaning no deliberate action but failed to act as a reasonable person. There was also discussion about the mats used - were these significant to soften the landing and prevent the injury, no. If a teacher/supervisor had been in the room would this have stopped the injury, possibly by stopping the tactic move. The discussion of 'prudent parent' also was disected - let's walk through this, if a parent was in the gym and their son, knowing they haven't been trained for this manouver wanted to test it the parent would likely say 'no' and rovide the proper spotters, trainers and insight into this more diligently.
In the end the school was not found liable but the students appellants were found at fault.
I would accordingly allow the appeal with costs to the appellant in this Court and in the Court of Appeal, and restore the judgment at trial, leaving intact the finding of contributory negligence against the appellant, which is well supported in the evidence, the apportionment of damages, and the disposition of costs at trial.
https://scc-csc.lexum.com/scc-csc/scc-csc/en/item/2521/index.do
Story Two
April 25, 2008
R vs A.M, Ontario
St. Patrick's Catholic High located in Sarnia, Ontario.
episode 36 season 1
Or should I say Calaghearridh, meaning pasture by the bay
Todays Two Minute Tuesday we are looking at where Calgary got her name.
Two Minute Tuesdays Cover Art...
Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast, with your host me, Valerie Moss todays show is short and sweet. I'm calling these Two Minute Tuesdays or TMT's. As I've been doing more and more research for my episodes and working full time, it doesn't leave enough in the kitty to record and produce timely, so instead of releasing less often I've decided to do these short spurts in between the full episode segments. Let me know what you think. My focus as always will be Calgary, this great city, and all that's captured within it.
Enjoy the episode.
Scotland Castle
Recently the place at 142 years old, the home that gave Calgary it's name has been sold! This castle stands proud surrounded by the lushest forest enveloping it's firm stone beauty. The grey fortress, boasting 10 bedrooms, and gothic looking windows, has a medieval look to it. A large inviting white door and beautifully kept vibrant green lawns surround the 11 hectare property. There was a bidding war across the globe as the property's asking price was a merely $700,000 euros approx $1.2 million, however it went for higher with interest from some tire kickers here in Canada but ultimately europeans won over the property.
Q: What does "Calgary" mean?
A: Calgary is named after Calgary Bay on the Isle of Mull, Scotland. It was originally thought to mean "clear running water" but has since been defined as "bay farm". Gaelic words Cala-ghearridh meaning pasture by the bay.
Calgary Sun Write UP
City of Calgary History
Local Histories about Calgary
Colonel James Macleod originally from Scotland
http://www.avenuecalgary.com/City-Life/A-Brief-History-of-Calgary/
Thanks for listing to our TmTs on the Vsqared podcast. the intro and outro for this podcast is recorded by London Moss and the music I chose today is water works synth to reflect the water surrounding the old Calgary Castle in Scotland...if there's something about Calgary or someone in Calgary that you'd like to know more about send me a note text or email to Valerie@ValerieMoss.ca
episode 35 season 1
Episode 35: Mental Health Podcast Challenge
Welcome back to a special episode of Valerie's Variety Podcast a sensitive episode where I discuss Mental Heath...enjoy the episode
Mental-Illness-Podcast-Challenge
emotional person
wear my heart on my sleeve
lost friends and lost family to cancer
had a breakdown in my kitchen when work got too stressful
love things and people more than I should
When I was in grade 5 just 12 years old I was living in a rough area in Edmonton with rough people. I watched my neighbour take acid when I was 11 years old and have an episode. I watched my other neighbour have an epileptic attack grande mal seizure while me and my sister plus other neighbour kids were around - I remember being so scared and curious that I couldn't look away or leave but too scared to get to close to this moment
Watched my grandmother die of cancer, lost my grandpa from my moms side he fell off a roof and had a heart attack, found by neighbour kids the same age as my daughter is today.
I have immediate family members that don't respond to my calls, texts, emails, they aren't around for important moments, they're invited, they've been reached out to, they're very important to me, they are included but don't respond. They suffer from mental illness - they are crushed by their own sense of sadness and loss and can't find their way out of it to reach out or connect tot he people that love them the most.
Watching my friend struggle with her job and her personal life at the same time. We need balance, if work is difficult your home life needs to be solid.
Sadness envelopes me when I think about my family as a child and miss everyone my heart swellsand biomes heavy - not because they are gone and don't respond but because of the time we had together as a family - those days have passed.
Becomes heavy when I was 37 years old my husband had open heart surgery, I was looking at being a window at under 40, I was fearful my daughter would grow up without her dad
I have people in my life that are unkind, unkind to the people I love deeply - these people are mean spirited and passive aggressive and cross the line too much to count and as such I choose not to include them to save my heart from further pain.
Mental illness to me is all of these things and if we allow ourselves to be crushed by sadness, hope, disparity, strength....this will happen, mental illness will set in and conquer our lives. What we need to do is to embrace it, live it, let is fester for it's time and then forgive it leave it by the curb and become more whole than you ever have as this is now part of you. the heavy ness of this moment, this person, this loss, this love. I have my moments, with Christmas just passed and not seeing my mom for another Christmas. BUT reaching out to the people who matter, and who you matter to is the most important.
BUT i have friends that fill up my days, and I'm open to trying, buying, eating, drinking, talking, playing, being together - saying yes when asked. Being the Asker because I need to be purposeful and fulfilled. Love life more and be better, do more and be stronger for it.
Mental Illness is our cognitive thinking skills, can we presume we know what someone is thinking, yes of course, is it accurate to the depths we want to perceive it to be, likely not. It maybe close but it's not the everything.
For me I need to be with people, from what I know about M.I. is that it's a lonely spot to be in, it's cold and isolated. When you're with people you feel warm and cared for - this matters. You matter. we need to matter to people and to the most important person - ourselves.
I lost one of the most important people to me a year ago and I have this whole in my heart even when I write this - no tears now as time has healed this emotion of breaking my barrier of tears BUT I feel sad that she's no longer in my life,
episode 34 season 1
trust and loyalty and savouring the moment
FRIENDS
Building Friendship, Having Trust,
what does this mean, trustBeing in the moment, always
What does it mean to have a friend to have trust?
Since living in Calgary for the last 20 years I look around and feel totally amazed by the people I’ve met. Friendships that I savour. So many people impact me on a daily basis. Recently I went on a trip to Vancouver. The night before I left I got to enjoy my friend’s company. This friend isn’t like just any friend. She’s my best friend. When I think of her and be with her there’s usually tears. Happy and sad. She’s a deep thinker she’s sensitive and grounded. She’s empowered more now then ever. She’s the kind of friend who When you reach out to her no matter what time/day or moment she’s there. I adore her so. Amber.
Friends on a different level
Friends since we were teens...
This evening gave me reflection on the beauty of this friendship.
I want to know about your friend.
Who do you have in your life, the guys listening to this - who do you truly connect with? Colleagues? Your kids? Wife? Ladies who do you have? Tell me your story about your friend that you cannot live without. What’s different that stands out that makes this connection between you two - a string that binds your souls together? That person.
Moving to Calgary and Chestermere where I became a mom surrounded by a group of women going through the ins and outs of being a new mom, parent to this little perfect being. Having this group to share our moments with in a safe place environment with each other is our moment. I’ve met people that have moved me to my core. Things that people have done these little things that have made my heart redder and fuller. I love how life introduces us to these moments that when they happen you are different maybe smarter maybe prouder maybe better perhaps.
The older I get the more I look for the deeper meaning of life - no this isn’t a country song - not quantity but quality. I love things and I’m passionate excitable heart on my sleeve - all the time. I love silly moments. Drinking to much - sewing all night long. Getting lost in music for hours. Having dance parties. Being girly and pretty with my daughter. Karaoke-ing with my dad. My husband means more to me now then yesterday and even when we met. He gets me and makes me feel amazing. I hope I return the sentiments as deeply.
Trust is where this lies for me. It’s my measuring stick. Trust is it. You betray my trust and I can’t forgive you. It’s not that I haven’t tried it’s that it’s broken forever. That twig has snapped. the last 5 years has put this trust module /tactic / bad sore to the test. What do you measure this with. What’s your sizing chart? What’s your breaking stick?
You know when you lean on people for direction and leadership and they betray you? I am always shocked by this how can they do this to me? They are selfish or pull this rug out from under you and you are once again in your own two feet- it’s you in the end. Trust yourself first.
While listening to A Star is Born Soundtrack with the sun on my face sitting in seat 10 a the mountains couldn’t be clearer. Love Calgary for this Dec day that’s sunny/ Chinook in the horizon and being lucky enough to be travelling to Vancouver to celebrate another Christmas with this company. My seat mates are headed to Maui.
Calgary feels betrayed by Canada. Calgary has done so much for this amazing country. We-Calgary gives back like no other province. We are the givers and have always been a ‘have’ province. Now, I’m not the one who talk politics, talks government but I have come across two amazing write-ups lately that I wanted to shares with you as the timing is incredible for our Calgary and our world.
The first is written by anonymous my friend from junior high Shawn shared this in fb and I wanted to pay it forward as I think it sums up the betrayal...
episode 33 season 1
a top pick for Vietnamese
Welcome back to Vsquared and this weeks TMT episode, we are reviewing a fabulous Vietnamese restaurant. The food here is likely the best Vietnamese we've come upon and this is with us searching hard for the best spot. I've been under the weather with a head cold and always need a nice bowl of chicken noodle soup - preferably my dads soup but..in a pinch this one works great.
Chicken Soup from Pure...mmmm
The place is call Pure, Contemporary Vietnamese Kitchen + Bar located at 815 - 8 Avenue SW
Parking
To get to this downtown spot, there generally plenty of street parking 0 but Parking was a challenge on this day and if I was driving, I would have given up, but since Jeff was driving and wanting to keep his wife happy - we persevered. Finding parking a few blocks away and walking into this great place was worth it!
Starter
We started with an appetizer, the salt and pepper squid - lightly fried with a medley of peppers sliced just so, and other spices sprinkled on top the 3 of us gobbled this up!
Soup
I ordered the Chicken Noodle soup, now when you think of this soup you picture Lipton - red and yellow box from when were were kids likely, but this soup is filled with medleys like green onions, friend dried onion, cilantro, mint and more, plus sprouts already placed in the soup and a separate dish of crispy chicken, with a side of pea shoot salad topped with a light airy sweet dressing , it's so good. London and I shared the soup.
Lemongrass
Jeff ordered the Lemongrass Shrimp vermicelli bowl, lots of bits of nuts, seasoning, fresh lemon grass, mint and cilantro sprinkled throughout, a single vegetarian spring roll cut diagonally on the side topped with carrots julienned amongst other vegetables. Truly a work of art on his plate.
Dishes
Love the dishes here, they are all pottery style with beautiful shapes and colours, they split up my soup into two gorgeous bowls for us to share, matching side plate for the chicken. Charming dinnerware, makes it feel more like home when you eat off of dishes that are so pretty.
Thanks for listening to this TmT segment and this quick restaurant review, enjoy your time when you stop in and eat here, it won't disappoint. Let me know how your experience was. Where is your favourite Vietnamese place and why? We are always searching for the next best eatery - so please let me know.
Thanks for listening. The intro and outro for this podcast is recorded by London Moss, the music I chose for the background is call Pure Love Synth 01 nicely reflecting the name of our chosen restaurant today, the bubbling soup is also recorded by me Valerie Moss.
episode 32 season 1
Vegas Baby!
Secret Speak Easy - invite only hidden gem in Vegas
The Commonwealth, home of The Laundry Room speakeasy
The Commonwealth, home of The Laundry Room speakeasy
typical table ends at The Commonwealth...great atmosphere
Take a spot upon these 'tuffets' order your pre-prohibition drink and enjoy the music coming through the sonophone.
Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast and a special episode about a recent vacation we went on...we, not long ago celebrated our 17 wedding anniversary (ep 19), my husbands milestone birthday and we did this in the best known adult playground...Las Vegas Nevada...
We showed up in Vegas at 10pm, which if you haven't been there, night time is the best time to arrive, this is the city that doesn't sleep...I mean never sleeps. Constant goings-on all the time! The amount of people in Vegas on a Friday night (when we arrived) is incredible, there are hundreds of people, driving walking, dancing, partying and seeing shows and so many more things. One thing Jeff and I like to do is people watch, and in Vegas this never disappoints.
DING DING DING GOES THE SLOT MACHINES
GUYS PEDDLING SHOWS ON THE STREETS WHEREVER YOU GO
BACHELOR AND BACHELORETTE PARTIES GALORE AND I'M PRETTY SURE THEY ARE NOT ASSOCIATED
THERE'S THIS PLACE AND THAT PLACE TO EAT AND DRINK AND SHOP
YOU WANT TO, LET'S SAY TAKE A HELICOPTER AROUND THE STRIP - DONE
GET A TATTOO, YEP YOU CAN DO THAT ANY TIME OF THE DAY OR NIGHT
and on and on it goes...well we were up for it all, well as much as we could do stamina wise and as much as we could do interest sake, you see, this was our first vacation without our daughter...she's 7 that's quite a few years to go through the beginnings of new parenting, settling into our parenting roles and how much we changed as people within this new family dynamic and then the following months and years getting easier and easier as most of us parents know, the older the baby the easier life gets for responsibilities every single minute.
We booked ourselves into a couple of shows ahead of time as we wanted to see a cirque de sole show. We’ve both seen them when we have done other trips to Vegas with work or personal but not together...so we chose ONE the Michael Jackson https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/michael-jackson-one
Michael Jackson One
experience...it was incredible and...I bought the T-shirt! Michael Jackson was my very first record I own yes an LP, mine was the thriller album, which my dad still has BTW and it will hopefully be worth some money one day...do you think the Happy 7th Birthday Valerie written in pen will add value to it?...maybe not. But the Vegas show was a must see for me..
Did you know the Cirque shows originated in Canada, in Montreal actually. They are a circus type of show with incredible talent, circus themes and apparatus' as well as the most in credit ideas. One of the skits for the MJ show...they were dressed in awesome suits and everything glowed in the dark. Acrobatics were happening all around us, another part was snow coming down from the ceiling...and to give MJ honour they had a memory box with his signature glove (which came to life), his hat and shoes...all of these items had dance moves all on their own. A worth it show. totally awesome.
Another show we wanted to see was just opening up when we got there,
The Mob Story
https://www.plazahotelcasino.com/entertainment/a-mob-story/
told real accounts from mobsters that made Vegas. A truly remarkable story of love, and impenetrable loyalty. This show also boasted some great talent and theatre performing dancers. We were sitting in a half moon shaped banquette, alone, in real style with small lamps on our table. Our waitress wasn’t great, which kind of sucked BUT the storey sure made up for it. Held at The Plaza hotel which is down in the old vegas areas off Fremont Street,
episode 31 season 1
Merry Christmas from me to YOU!
Merry Christmas, love Valerie
Welcome to A special Christmas episode about a girl who grew up in a small town east of Jasper Alberta who now lives in and loves Calgary. What or who brought you to Calgary, why do you love it here?
Once upon a time there was a was a brown haired girl with green eyes who lived in a town with a quaint population. Her mom and dad were also both from this pulp and paper town. Surrounded by coal mines and mountains.
She, this small girl loved Christmas. Her large praternal family consisted of Auntie Cher, cousin David, Uncle Ron, Auntie Barb and cousins Abby and Katy, Uncle Derek Auntie Marg a x cousins Travis Russel and Jolene as well as uncle Murray (RIP) Auntie Laurie and cousin Kyle. And My dad, Michael comes next with me, Valerie and my older Sister Lisa. Then would be Uncle Darcy (RIP) and next comes Auntie Maureen, Uncle Al and their boys Ryley, Davis and Vaughan. Yes this is my family on my dads side. Amazing isn’t it.? What’s does your dads side look like? How many people in your family on your praternal side? And this is before we all had babies...
We would head out to Folding mountain resort every year! This resort was owned and operated by my grandparents for many years and previous to that by my grandmas cousin. Nestled in the heart of a mountain names, Folding Mountain-a mountain that folded over a lake many crisp years before as well as other Rocky Mountains it boasts to this day a campground and cabins and condos just East of the jasper gates in Jasper national and historic park.
There was very rarely a sharing of the holidays my gramma Swain won her family most of the time. Her family came home for Christmas. All the kids. Since my dad was a single parent she didn’t have to share us and I was thankful for that I think because she had mostly boys they all showed up for Christmas to be with their mother and of course my grandpa.
We would arrive a day or two before the specialist day and walk into a country home smelling of pies, all kinds of roasting foods like: of course the traditional Turkey and fixings as well as, other family favourites like sour krout soup and sausage stew, perogi and cabbage rolls, enchiladas, and abundance of salads to include traditional lettuce and sort of bean mixture. Plus an incredible array of desserts.
Funny story, when my dad and his brothers were young, remember how many of them there were? My grandma would do her Christmas baking way in advance and freeze everything in the basement deep freeze. The boys would go in a sneak slabs of her Nanaimo bars and cakes in the night...the stash and supplies were mush skinnier when the time came for Christmas dinner celebrations...hmmm I wonder if Grandma actually minded.
Upon arrival all these families would show up in troves kids and food and pets lol along with presents and all the banter ‘oh Maureen I bought this dish back I borrowed’ and Oh Michael here’s these pictures you wanted and ‘oh hi Auntie is so good to see you’ this took most of the day-evening just saying hi’s to everyone. Then the grandkids, Lisa, Travis, Valerie, Russell, David, Jolene, Abby, Katy, Kyle would go hunting with Grandpa Swain for the best Christmas tree, a real tree, picked right in our backyard, up the mountain. The tree could barely fit through the door. the decorating would ensure and Christmas was well underway...
You see our family was big and people were scattered all around the country. We had aunties and uncles in Ontario and British Columbia as well as when my family moved us to Saskatchewan and family in Edmonton. But we would all descend into our home town where we were all raised on this snowy snow capped mountain resort that was familiar and special to each one of us in a different or similar way.
this is my dads side
Her maternal side also lived in this area just East in a small town, still nestled in the Rocky Mountains,
episode 30 season 1
My life in the signage industry, commercial, portable, exhibit worthy!
Todays episode is all about Signs and what I as a PM/Site Superintendent have to navigate daily to get our objectives met. I've worked on on larger signage projects. I am the boots on the ground, the service delivery in construction this person, this girl that takes the hits in the field, the main contact once it's produced - I'm this person. Today is a story about my job, my project navigating skills my position as a female in this world of construction and a project that changed my life for ever.
8 million dollar job
Signs Signs, Way-Finding Signs
For those of you from Calgary I was the lead superintendent on the IFP (international Facilities project) at the Calgary International Airport. - for the signage installation program. This is the new international portion of the airport which opened Halloween night Oct 31, 2016. I was there this very night watching the first flight of passengers make their way through the terminal, what a moment. They were heading somewhere tropical and I was hoping the signage showed them their way.
This project started in Dec 2014, with 6000 signs to be installed. Starting with tidy little phases for completion to full-on mass change orders, adjustments, site instructions, more changes, adding to the sheer volume of delays. Taking the project from 6 - 9 months to 3 years. CCNs (contemplate change notice) - this is when a change is suggested, requesting estimates from all of the sub trades. The debate ensues if this is going to move ahead...some of these don't get approved for several months (sometimes 9 months but you need to make sure you know about this change in the future for when your estimate is approved). This means if they are going to close up the ceiling or add/remove a wall you need to know about it - SO you can designate your area that you need your sign to go into or submit an RFI (request for information) as your scope has now changed - guess what there's no wall!
Way-finding Signage, is the type of signage we installed into the airport way finding - this means signage specifically placed for people to find their way. We didn't design the sign, we didn't design the content, we didn't pick the location as to where this is to be installed. Our scope, to build the sign as per approved drawings and to install the signage as per approved placement that is provided to us - that is all! Sound, simple enough?
There's a process...we receive a signage package called IFC - Issued for Construction, within this package the signage is specified, there's a drawing that is provided for each sign type (there was approx 170 sign types, we'll get to these in a moment). This drawing indicates the material, the shape, the size how's it mounted and a code for this which is something like A/B/C/D etc this means the type of signage like directional, identifiers like for amenities.
Then it's our job as the signage company and to produce this to make a technical shop drawing that will be stamped by an engineer, it's also our job to make an artwork package based on the artwork specifications that will need to be submitted to the consultant on the project (this person is hired by the owner).
The shop drawing and artwork specifications then get submitted to the GC - general contractor. The GC then submits to all parties that will have influence over our drawings, this could be another trade like the electrical or data sub-contractors, the clients engineers, the consultants, the architects - we wait, tic tic for all of these stakeholders to review and submit back to the GC, then they finalize and provide us the approved drawings. OR they provide us the drawings that note: re and re which means revise and resubmit. This process continues over and over again until all of the shop drawings are submitted to the GC and respective people. In the case of the IFP project we had over 170 shop drawi...
episode 29 season 1
New Podcasts for U, my Top 6!
This week on Vsqd I'm sharing some of our favourite podcasts starting from the bottom up. For your kids and for you and your spouse. I recently went to a Podcast Meet-up and we discussed when do you listen, like what time of day do you listen to pods and there was a variety of answers..some listened to them while driving - typical and expected response, some listened while cleaning house, making supper but then a couple people were discussing which ones they listened to at certain times and why? For example, crime podcasts or serious and heavy ones seemed to be listened to while driving and others that were more upbeat were listened to while doing chores. When do you like to listen and which genre? There was also a comment about pods that we've listened to for a long time like 50 plus episodes of something similar like, news pods or comic pods, and how you can compresses these pods to get through them quicker or speed it up - huh never heard of this but now I've found out there's software out there that can do this, interesting hey?
I always listened to the news in the morning while getting ready for work, I have an old iPad setup in my bathroom and I set the news to CBC, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation or BBC British Broadcasting Corporation until recently...with our economy here in Alberta not doing so well, the news is so redundant and depressing - I needed something else to listen to. So...I've changed my choice to podcasts. For some reason I only listen through the TuneIn Radio App in this getting ready setting, so I searched for podcasts (yes mine is listed on there also) and found some new ones and gave them a go...amongst my other favourite go-to's which I listen to in my cary - here's my current top favourites:
6) Helen by Gimlet Media
Okay the first time I listened to Helen I was hooked, it's funny, like a sit-com from back in the day. This show is about a women who goes to work at Helen - which is basically the Seri or Alexis - A.I. of the world corporate head quarters. Her position there is the intellect for every bird question, yes BIRDS. It's hilarious and well written. Like, "Hey Helen, please tell me how to remove these pigeons in my attic" but she has a personal life that is also edgy like her x-husband has just escaped prison. Easy listening option, funny and intriguing, catchy. It's a series you need to listen to chapter by chapter - it's good.
5) CrimeTown by Gimlet Media
The second one by Gimlet media is Crimetown, this show is gritty, heavy and an all round reality documentary. The first season I'm just coming to the end and it's on the subject of Providence Rhode island and the Patriarca Crime Family, It's told by the people of the mob, First Hand, in their voices, their stories, the police - trying to catch the bad guys, and the mayor how burned his wife's lover with a lit cigarette, robberies of armoured cars, crime guys who had wolves as pets. It's racie and it actually makes you like and side with the bad guys. This is a good story, told well and produced excellently. Add this one to your line up.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Providence,_Rhode_Island
Patriarca crime family - Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patriarca_crime_family
4) Small Town Dicks
hosts Yeardly Smith, and Zibby Allen tell crime stories by first responder accounts alongside two detectives who just so happen to be twin brothers, Dan and Dave. They recount stories and bring in other members of law enforcement and peripheral support like 911 operators, EMS and community members to tell their parts of the stories also. It’s a neat round table q and a discussion. True stories, well told from the people who were there. Some of their content can be very graphic and some may involve children, The episodes that involve children, I just can’t listen too as somethings I just don’t want to know. But it's a Great down to earth podcast full of ba...
episode 28 season 1
Honing Device for North
Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast and our TmT segment for this week, we're checking out the calgary street names...or numbers and our internal compass' or lack their of.
If you're new to Calgary or have been here for many years our number and named street system can be an like herding cats trying to figure this out. Hopefully you aren’t too bewildered by the numbered street system. Up until the year 1904, Calgary actually used a street naming system instead of numbers. Even today there are some who hope Calgary will revert to the old street naming system, and are even pressing for political action to make it happen. Today, there are some Calgary communities who use both systems. Crowchild Trail, or Highway 1A, Richmond Road or 37 Avenue SW, Glenmore Trail or High 8, 24 Street SE or Ogden Road - to name a few. Which do you prefer and Why? I think naming after significant people or to reflect on past transgressions of a government Reconciliation Bridge for example, speaks to great Truths our city is willing to promote to get recognition - which holds more strength and compassion then 9th street SE. Where do you live and what's easier for you to navigate through the city? Landmarks, street names or numbers?
When I first moved to Calgary, having no sense of direction it didn't help me if it was Glenmore Trail or 50 Avenue - since I have no internal compass this wasn't what I needed - it was useless, I get lost in parking lots, get turnaround inside malls. I need to focus on landmarks, memorize and take pictures of parking stalls, get my bearings by this red door, or stairwell or specific store - not North. I literally think the path ahead is always north or up no matter what direction I'm facing. Crazy right?
Because this is such an issue for me and moving to Calgary when I was just 20 has been a long road lol to say the least. I recently went to a family reunion and my cousin and I were running errands, I was driving, we were sharing directions - she said to turn left, the sign said EAST and I said EAST? to her - she's like I don't know EAST just turn left here... and she too has this obstacle, and thanks to google for helping us out getting EAST, left turn where we needed it.
In my profession I have the requirement to be on job sites, I must know North...I typically will memorize a map of the area and orient myself to always know north and really map out my area, spatial surroundings so I know exactly what people are referring to. 'North west wall, in the south corridor' this would just make me cringe inside. I didn't know this instinctively, but I could review my map and know the top meant north, then be sure of where they were referring to. Overtime, I memorize and store this information to make my personal life and work life easier, but it doesn't come naturally like a lot of people I know.
Within the last couple of weeks this has truly tested and frustrated me, picture this, I have a compass app on my phone, I have my iPad for documentation, I have the compass in the truck, as I move through the city to all of the these MAX BRT bus stops I need to document, westbound/eastbound/northbound and /southbound directions for the platforms, so I have all of these compass' tools and help and I'm still like, well this is sort of north-west ish. Good god it's so frustrating even with the tools I have, I still second guess exactly. Point me straight north or straight west or put me on a road that is exactly this and I'm good, any variance I'm totally mixed up. I'm not the only one, I realize but it effects me on a grand scale as it's takes me more time to figure this out...
A funny story, while on a large job site, I was meet another sub-trade, in the north east end of the Airport's international area - this i had memorized long before this meeting as I'd been on this job site for months by this point, once I walked closer to him,
episode 2 season 1
Have you listened yet? Catch clips of the first 12 episodes here.
Cover Art
Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast, VSquared and our first promo clip, this clip is encompassing highlights from our past episodes 1 through to 12. April 15 from our very fist episode to July 17 q and a between mom and 6 year old. Was very fun to put together and reminisce although it hasn't been very long...it was still nice to go back and listen to these episodes.
Would love to promote your show or product on my podcast? Interested in doing an exchange - let me know as I'd love to collaborate and spread the word about this show and yours.
The intro is by Janice Wilby and outro for this podcast is recorded by London Moss. The music included within these snippets is all through Garage Band The podcast is written and produced by me Valerie Moss, through Garage Band and WordPress.
Thanks for Listening.
episode 26 season 1
100th: 26 Review: Ten, 5 & Humanity
Today I want to review a few restaurants we recently stopped into first one a tasty vegetarian eatery called Ten Foot Henry’s located at 1209 - 1 street SW opened from 11 - 11 (shouldn’t it be 10 - 10?) just sayin’ and the other one Trolley 5 located on 17 avenue Sw
First! Ten Foot Henry
When you walk into this place you are greeted with a personalized stamped carpet - the character they use looks like Herald from Herald and the Purple Crayon…an outline of a small animated boys head, bald, and curious expression on his face, shown from the side. But it’s actually named after a long time Calgary icon, Ten Foot Henry became a muse for Calgary’s creative community..it’s actually 37 years old - check out their website for more about their story and Henry’s life.
Once you’re inside, this gracious place is very earthy, you almost feel like you’re part of a garden party where live plants are stringed in hanging baskets in linear lines strategically placed above tables. Wooden tables (which are my favourite) are in abundance with the wood being just finished enough to not snag your clothing, nice and rustic. There’s low dining tables a high tables and one table is 10 feet long, situated just perfectly in the middle of the room. There’s long bars with chairs lined up around them so you can sit up and watch the drinks bar or the cooking bar. It’s a mix of fresh and earthy. It feels good inside. We were educated on the menu (pick your vegetable main then add your proteins) it’s family style so pick 3-4 plates for 3 people and you may have some left over to take in…we chose the jerk spiced cauliflower, the spaghetti with pistachio and pesto, pandano, and the tagliatelle pomodoro and the friend potatoes.
The food came out fast, and hot.
Great Stop
- would we be back likely except there’s so many others places to try out.
Ten Foot Henry Menu
Ten Foot Henry Menu
Ten Foot Henry
Second: Trolley 5 Restaurant and Brewery
their vision, to bring the community together and are located at 728 - 17 Avenue SW their hours vary, when you walk in the ceilings are extremely high and large garage style doors open to the exterior and they were open on this night, very inviting. We decided to sit outside as their patio faces 17 avenue sw so there is always lots of people watching available.
t hey have your usual bar food but they do have some interesting choices that stood out. We had the Dim Sum dumplings (shrimp) these are traditional dumplings mixed with a light vegetable inside a rice paper wrap. These were served within the traditional bamboo container. They were very good. The other item we had was the Salt and Petter Squid, house breaded very lightly but covered, squid, served with julienned vegetables, very generous portion. London ordered some daily jerky, beef, which came out wrapped in white meat wrapping rope - delicious as well. They have a different flavour each day. We sat outside even though it was slightly cool, their exterior heaters were on and we enjoyed this very much. crisp fall air. the washrooms are located beneath the restaurant and to get to them you need to practically tour the entire facility. But once you find them, down two flights of stairs around the corner passed another giant bar with large screen TV’s everywhere, passed all the incredible aluminum casts, encased within glass walls - great
for watching their brew bring made - you finally come upon the washrooms. These are beautiful, along the wall where the sinks are, the lower half is glass and faces outside into an enclosed area just for this place, the top half is covered in mirrors, there’s a long banquette with a mustard yellow tapestry and exposed lighting coming out from over top of the high back - almost like you could lay down with a good book and chill out for hours - this is the ladies washroom.
http://trolley5.com
For my closing review
episode 25 season 1
a group of podcasters brought this story back to life
Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast with your host me, Valerie Moss...todays show I wanted to share with you the making of the Shelever case a behind the scenes episode of Calgary History: William Shelever from the previous episode. If you haven't listened to this episode please do so before you listen to the makings of...
Screenshot of the editing that went into the Shelever Episode
I recently did an episode investigating in Calgary, i spent some, well many hours at the Calgary public Library looking for something interesting to podcast about that is Calgary driven and from the 1970's in the past, not a currently discussed topic . I first came upon the Local History room at the library and got comfortable....upon further inspection I came across many articles that have been clipped out of the newspaper and categorized into envelopes one marked crime and criminals. I opened these envelopes up and came upon several clippings about this one case in 1977.
Rookie Cop Shot,
for my first Calgary History episode about two girls found dead under the happy valley overpass, I found it interesting to combine the stores and actually write a column on this story...moving into the William Bill Shelver case I wanted to push myself and step this up another notch. I find it very interesting listing to the podcast serial with Sara Kanik as she a) is a great story teller and b) includes actual clips from the people she's talking about. I asked Jeff my hubby if he'd be up for helping me out as he has in the past but he waste' into it for the quantity of lines I required...when I thought about who I could get, I had a great idea to reach out to my fellow podcasters and ask if anyone would be interested in contributing to this story as a voice over. I'm not quote at the investigative journalism point where I can spend more hours of personal time finding, sourcing and interviewing these people from my stories....YET! so I first went through all of the articles and research I came upon and created my list of "quotes" that people within these stories said then I reached out to my Facebook communities for podcasters and asked who might be interested in reading some lines male and females...well that was easier than I thought - thank you! (p.s. if you're interesting in doing voice work for me in an upcoming episode, please touch base with me as I'd be so gracious) I immediately had so many people offering to assist with my 14 lines that I had extra entries.
Due to the graphic and sensitive nature of the story and wanting to pay tribute and highly respect the Calgary Police Service I made sure that I was true to what these people said and in the context that they said it within.
I placed these characters in Alphabetical order for ease of layout and organizing but they were within the episode in possibly more than one appearance as well. Some even had two different people to quote.
The criteria was simple, here's the line in "quotes" please say the line 2-3 times I would provide descriptive words and possibly a setting. In exchange for this unpaid position I requested a snippet of their podcast or a promo clip to insert.
Said with purpose and directiveness
, "from what I've seen he has the makings of a good police officer" This was a line from Zone Sergeant Shaw
Starting with
Andy Ace as Deputy Howard Leary here's his entry and his promotion clip.
for Pardon my Fork ironically this was the first entry I received, I listened to his lines and the promo wihile texting live with Andy, and I was so distracted by how good his promo was - really good, take a listen, that I didn't listen to his entry lol
Austin Kirk as Police chief Brian Sawyer
I didn't receive a promo clip for Austin but thank you for helping me with my show.
bridget frank quoting amazing grace
episode 24 season 1
William (Bill) Shelever "we will do everything to see his death was not in vain"
Having friends in the police force in Calgary raining from Detectives to K-9 and surveillance makes me reflect on their jobs and skills - their sheer determination to make our streets better - safer. Having been on a "ride-a-long" (check our my blog for these stories - maybe a future podcast) and seeing what they go through first hand also makes me contemplate the sheer magnitude and intimate nature of the job. Going into peoples homes, searching people and speaking directly about the concerns at hand. Very intimate and personal. So when I came across this article well many articles about this fallen policeman I wanted to pay tribute to this story from the 1970's.
The CPS (Calgary Police Service) with 2200 sworn members, 1000 unsworn members and 8 stations. Having the first female police Chief in Canada, Christine Silverberg. Since inception in 1885 the CPS has lost 11 officers in the line of duty:
1917 – Constable Arthur Duncan (gunfire)1933 – Inspector Joe Carruthers (gunfire)1941 – Constable Wilf Cox (motorcycle collision)1957 – Constable Ken Delmage (motorcycle collision)1974 – Detective Boyd Davidson (gunfire)1976 – Staff Sgt. Keith Harrison (gunfire) 1977 – Constable Bill Shelever (gunfire) 1992 – Constable Rob Vanderwiel (gunfire)1993 – Constable Rick Sonnenberg (hit while attempting to stop stolen vehicle)
Rick Sonnenburg Memorial off Deerfoot Trail SE
In 1993, as a direct result of the hit and run death of Constable Rick Sonnenberg, the Helicopter Air Watch for Community Safety (HAWCS unit) was created, and the Calgary Police Service became the first law enforcement agency in Canada to incorporate the use of air support into its routine operations. In 2006, the unit was expanded when a second helicopter was purchased.
2000 – Constable John Petropoulos (injuries sustained in fall)2001 – Constable Darren Beatty (injuries sustained during training exercise)
I will be featuring William Bill Shelever who lost his life to gunfire in 1977 as one of these 11.
May 24, 1977
The scene shows two police cruisers under the light of the street lamps, with a neon plant sign overhead, one police officer running toward the camera another ring is lit up and sales Pro Shop, caption reads "police at shooting scene in downtown calgary....after two officers were shot near restaurant. They were shot in their mobile office they were shot in their squad car on 8 avenue SW. Them as well as another assailment - a known robber was also shot on Friday. One of these officers William (Bill) Shelever, just 31 years old and only 6 weeks on the job was shot in the head. The other officer was 26 years old and he was shot in the groin. The suspect, Roy Glaremin only 22 years old was shot in the chest and buttocks...and was satisfactory after surgery saved his life once a few bullets were removed and he was sewn up.
The story goes something like this: There was a holdup Friday afternoon at the jean Joint, downtown Calgary a separate incident. The two policemen men Shelever and Pedersen were patrolling downtown around 1am when they saw a man that fit this description (Roy Glaremin) the culprit from earlier. When they approached him they asked him to come back to the Police car, while there, Shelver made an unsuccessful attempt to take the gun away -Glaremin demanded that the two officers turned over their guns and Pedersen stalled trying to get handcuffs and flashlight.They checked him (not like a full search) and put him in the back of the car...The fact that he was a suspect didn't produce the official signal of a true/ thorough search then he/the suspect pulled a revolver immediately and shot Shelever once in the back of the head, the second officer went to flee the vehicle and was shot two times. Once in the leg and another time in the buttocks however another news article says one of these slugs hit his Peter...
episode 23 season 1
Calgary Pay Attention
Todays Two Minute Tuesday we are looking at Calgary Languages. Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast, with your host me, Valerie Moss todays show is short and sweet. I'm calling these Two Minute Tuesdays or TMT's. As I've been doing more and more research for my episodes and working full time, it doesn't leave enough in the kitty to record and produced timely, so instead of releasing less often I've decided to do these short spurts in between the full episode segments. Let me know what you think. My focus as always will be Calgary, this great city, and all that's captured within it. Enjoy the episode. Since we do live in a predonimantly english speaking Country, Calgary mother tongue language is English, however in the 2011 census we learned that 70% speak English, 1% speak French and 25% speak a foreign language with the top 3 being. First: Punjabi which is a Indo-Aryan language with more than 100 million native speakers worldwide, The Punjab extends from northwest India through eastern Pakistan. Second/Er: Chinese Dialects, which is separated into 5 main groups. Mandarin, Yue (which includes Cantonese), Min, Wu and Hakka make up the other four. Cantonese lay claim to approx 55 million speakers in China alone. Third/Thres: Spanish which makes up approx 2% of our Calgary population and approximately 2% of our Canadian population consists of Latin Americans. We also have many other ethnic backgrounds flourishing in our amazing city for work and to take care of their families in a safe and clean environment. I know many people who employ Philipino Nanny's to take care of their families. These women love to nurture and support the good care of kids ultimately sending money back home to their families in the Philippines. Welcome to all our languages within Calgary and thank you for bringing your amazing Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Mexica foods into our city, what a fantastic exposure we have and our children get to explore your culture through food. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Languages_of_Canada https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latin_American_Canadians http://www.calgaryherald.com/life/Rise+immigrant+tongues+makes+Calgary+global+city/7442733/story.html en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjabi_Hindus
episode 22 season 1
Calgary’s Lodgepole Pine, PinusContorta
The Lodgepole Pine, Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast, with your host me, Valerie Moss todays show is short and sweet. I'm calling these Two
Minute Tuesdays or TMT's. As I've been doing more and more research for my episodes and working full time, it doesn't leave enough in the kitty to record and produced timely, so instead of releasing less often I've decided to do these short spurts in between the full episode segments. Let me know what you think. My focus as always will be Calgary, this great city, and all that's captured within it. Enjoy the episode.
Two Minute Tuesdays Cover Art...
Calgary's Lodgepole Pine: Pinus Contorta
Calgary is known for the Lodgepole Pine Trees. Pinus contorta, with the common names lodgepole pine and shore pine, and also known as twisted pine, and contorta pine, is a common tree in western North America. It is common near the ocean shore and in dry montane forests Like all pines (member species of the genus Pinus), it is an evergreen conifer. Pinus contorta is a fire-dependent species, requiring wildfires to maintain healthy populations of diverse ages. They have serotinous cones. This means that the cones are closed and must be exposed to high temperatures, such as from forest fires, in order to open and release their seeds. There is also a species of bark beetle known likely to local Albertans as the Mountain Pine Beetle native to the forests of western North America from Mexico to central British Columbia. It has a hard black exoskeleton, and measures approximately 5 mm, about the size of a grain of rice. In western North America, the current outbreak of the mountain pine beetle and its microbial associates has destroyed wide areas of lodgepole pine forest, including more than 16 million of the 55 million hectares of forest in British Columbia.
Please visit Valerie Moss.ca for all show notes and research details.
episode 21 season 1
Calgary Summer Camps for a 6 yo
Welcome to a fun podcast about Calgary Summer Camps for a 6 year old kid. Being a mom of a 7 year old, and a working professional it's hard to juggle camps, interests and driving around the city figuring out the best spots to put your kids, convenience, safety and costs are all a factors I look at. For this episode I'm going to review all of the camps we signed up for this year and my daughters perspective and of course mine on these gems.
Swimming - Crafting - Biking
ONE, WinSport Summer Camp
Winsport:
Camp: Downhill Mountain Bike for girls
Cost: $400
Facility review: this place is what you’d picture at a ski resort. It’s industrial, lites of windows, tables benches. The coaches that volunteer and work are shredded out with long hair and talk like surfing guys lol. It’s god a great vibe and everyone is pumped.
choosing the class: it gives you some benchmark of skills to choose from plus the option of co-ed class or just girls. I chose co-ed as lives more fun when you have good dynamics Bike pre-requisites we’re front and back brakes plus padding for knees/elbows etc plus riding gloves. Why do we let our kids influence our purchasing decisions...Day one: she was in a group with all boys...so they tried to find another group for her which ended up being all boys also. There maybe have been a ratio issue also but I’m not exactly sure. So she stood her ground and said she would have preferred to stay in this first group as she’s already getting to know the boys names then move to a new all boys group. Good point kid! waivers
Why is everything today initiated with a waiver? You will have the best time but only if you sign this waiver first
nestled in at our Canada Olympic park site where we held the 1988 Olympic Games here in Calgary Alberta. I wasn’t living here at the time of this global stamp on our amazing city but my husband was and he has very fond memories of City Pride and sense of community and euphoria rooting for our Canadian olympians. Camp name: mountain biking camp
Signed her up for this thinking this would be good experience for her to learn control of her bike, hills, more aggressive biking and of course make friends and have a good time.
turns out she needed a better bike with many gears and front and back breaks- who knew? they lent her a bike for the week
She had a good time very challenged and satisfying. We ended up upgrading her bike to the next level. They biked 10 plus Kim’s each day.
TWO: City of Calgary Summer Camp
Village Square Leisure Centre
Camp: Red Adventure
Cost: $225
Facility review. This place is so busy located off 52 street NE it’s always a buzz being a full service leisure centre with swimming-gym parenting rooms all kinds of fitness classes and more.
This is through the City of Calgary is a combination camp with crafts activities and swimming. This is her all time favourite camp. The volunteers want to be there. They love the kids and always a good time. London comes home exhausted and happy. Always a good option for camp
THREE: Storybook Theatre Summer Camp
Storybook theatre
Beddington art centre
Camp: Drama camp
Cost: $200
Great camp they use a combination of public speaking memorizing lines and acting. This is a fun camp for her she likes it and has taken away a few lines and scripts that have impacted her like Shakespear and Sally field to name a few. Fun group of staff and organized.
FOUR: Peddleheads Bike Camp
Peddleheads
Camp: Bike Rules
Cost: $350
Location: Rosemount community centre
This was such a great camp, the kids learned hand signals for turning and learned proper road riding. They do a parade at the end showing off what they learnt. They know and announce all the kids by name.
These bike camps when you are car people can be a challenge. Hauling the bike to and from the locations.
e20s1
Curious about who makes up this great city?
Two minute Tuesday (TmTs)
Welcome back to Valerie's Variety Podcast, with your host me, Valerie Moss todays show is short and sweet. I'm calling these Two Minute Tuesdays or TMT's thanks to Jeff for this suggestion. As I've been doing more and more research for my episodes and working full time, it doesn't leave enough in the kitty to record and produced timely, so instead of releasing less often I've decided to do these short spurts in between the full episode segments. Let me know what you think. My focus will be Calgary, this great city, and all that's captured within it. Let me know what you think!
Two Minute Tuesdays Cover Art...
Did you know the average or median age in Calgary is 36.4 and average or median age in Alberta is 36.5 with a total population of 1.37million, 3rd largest municipality and the 5th largest city in Canada. The total population in Alberta is 4.146 million. I've lived in Alberta for most of my life minus a few years I spent in Saskatchewan going to College. It's a stunning wealthy province with mountains, rivers and lakes.
Calgary Population 2018 (Demographics, Maps, Graphs)
Alberta - Wikipedia
e19s1
Significance of Anniversaries, gemstones and numbers
My 17th wedding anniversary...anniversary is the date on which an event took place or an institution was founded in a previous year, and may also refer to the commemoration or celebration of that event. Plural Anniversaries...
1: the annual recurrence of a date marking a notable event
a wedding anniversary; broadly : a date that follows such an event by a specified period of time measured in units other than years, 6-month anniversary of the accident - and of course to celebrate and anniversary.
All things 17 years of marriage signify Anniversary Gifts for Each Year For each anniversary, there are certain types of gifts to give. Everybody knows that the Silver anniversary is the 25th and the gold anniversary the 50th. But how about all the ones in between because each one matters... The historic origins of wedding anniversaries date back to the Holy Roman Empire, when husbands crowned their wives with a silver wreath on their twenty-fifth anniversary, and a gold wreath on the fiftieth. Later, principally in the twentieth century, commercialism led to the addition of more anniversaries being represented by a named gift. In Canada, one can also receive a message from the Governor-General for the 50th anniversary, and every fifth anniversary after that. Let's do the math on this, if I'm 41 years old, and I've been married for 17 years, to be married for 50 years I'd need to be...okay let's not complete this equation. The names of some anniversaries provide guidance for appropriate or traditional gifts for the spouses to give each other; if there is a party these can be brought by the guests or influence the theme or decoration. These gifts vary in different countries, but some years have well-established connections now common to most nations: 5th Wood, 10th Tin, 15th Crystal, 20th China, 25th Silver, 30th Pearl, 35th Jade, 40th Ruby, 45th Sapphire, 50th Gold, 60th Diamond, and 70th Platinum. In English speaking countries the first, wooden, gift was cut on the day of celebration and then presented to the wife as a finished article before the next two quarter days had passed. This means the 4 significant dates throughout the year things like school starting, rent being due etc. The modern tradition may have originated in medieval Germany where, if a married couple lived to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their wedding, the wife was presented by her friends and neighbours with a silver wreath to congratulate them for the good fortune that had prolonged the lives of the couple for so many years. Gemstones and Meanings around the 17th Carnelian - Carnelian (also spelled and referred to as cornelian) is a brownish-red mineral which is commonly used as a semi-precious gemstone. It is said that this stone is an energy booster, can protect one from bad vibrations, helps a person that's insecure to find strength within them, can guard against poverty, also help give a sense of humor, increase ones appetite and calms temper.This gemstone was widely used during Roman times to make engraved gems for signet or seal rings. Anniversary Colours since we are focussing on my favourite number 17 and my 17th anniversary the colour that best represents this special year is yellow..Yellow identifies with acquired learning. It is the colour which reverberates with the left or rational side of the brain. This colour animates our intellectual capacities and making mental deftness and recognition. It is the the lightest shade in the spectrum. From a physiological standpoint yellow is elevating and enlightening. This colour also offers trust, joy, happiness and fun. In the significance of colours, yellow motivates unique thought and curiosity. Yellow is innovative from a mental perspective. The colour of new thoughts which helps us to discover better approaches for getting things done. It is the useful mastermind, not the visionary. Some other years that caught my eye based on ...
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What happened to these two girls, 40 years ago!
Sunday, February 15, 1976
Two 14 year old girls have been found dead West of the city under the happy valley overpass. Fully clothed, no visible gun shot wounds, no visible evidence of stabbing, they would not have died due to exposure.So What happened?Someone is hiding something, this case is still COLD 42 years later.
This overpass will eventually mark the area that is now referred to as Valley Ridge but at this time in 1976 this area was still a few miles out of the city of Calgary, city limits heading WEST. The Happy Valley area was a campground and amusement park from 1961 to the late 1970's. Full of merry-go-rounds, carousel rides and a wading pool and the laughter of children, smell of hotdogs and the cracking of chips. This is a 28min drive by car direct from Ian Bazalgette junior high school to the place the girls bodies were found. If you look at a topical map of the city of Calgary from the SOUTH EAST area of the city to the far WEST end of the city heading out of town toward the rocky mountains a truly opposite direction from the girls end of town. Why here?
One of the girls, identified as Patricia McQueen
Patricia or Patsy as she was referred to resided at 2220 - 37 Street SE just SOUTH of highway 1a and EAST of 36 street in the Forest Lawn, Forest Heights area of Calgary. in 2012, 36 years later, the demographics in this forest lawn area had a population of almost 7500 people living in 3300 dwellings. Average household incomes in the year 2000 were almost 30% low income residents, approx 18 percent were immigrants, the main buildings and residents were condos and apartments styles and almost 60% were rental units - high density housing. From the web archive crime database as far back as I can go to 2002, still 35 years later Person crimes like asault, battery, robbery was 16/1000 and property crimes were things like break and entry, theft from vehicles etc was 57/1000.
Patricia McQueen Home
When I look at the house Patsy lived in according to google images today this appears to be a 1950's home Typical bungalow style with a 3 step porch up to the door, it has a short metal fenced front yard with a gates up the side walk, the house is an off white colour today with brown window trim. You can assume the two windows on the right are bedrooms and the large window on the left is the living room.
The second girl, identified as Eva Dvorak;
Of 3131 - 30 A avenue SE. - in the community of Dover, EAST of Highway 2 and south of Highway 1A. In 2012, 36 years later the demographics of the community of Dover had a population of 10,302 living in 4,722 dwellings and average household income in the year 2000 was $43,875 and approx 24% were low income residents. 15% of the residents were immigrants and almost 30% of the buildings were condo units, apartments and rental properties - high density housing. From the web archive crime database as far back as I can 2002, 35 years later; Person crimes like asault, battery, robbery was 16/1000 and property crimes were things like break and entry, theft from vehicles etc was 44/1000. Lower than in Forest Lawn but still significant.
Eva Dvorak Home
According to google images today, Eva's home was on the inside of a small cal-de-sac, again it was also a bungalow style duplex, her home as on the outside of the cal-de-sa with the front view facing a walking path.
Obviously these crime rates from 2002 would likely be higher then in 1976 however in 1976 people didn't report crime like they did in 2002 and of course today. However these crime rates are significant. Higher in the area where Patsy lived then where Ava lived but we can surmise the girls lived in a rougher part of the city.
Both girls lived close to and addended Ian Bazalgette Junior High School to the north Patsy and the south Eva almost the same distance from the school. Patsy in grade 9 and Eva in grade 8.
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The man that wrote my original show music, Jason Schnell.
Welcome to Valerie's Variety Podcast episode welcome Jason Schnell...I am forever grateful in the time you took to investigate, write and produce my podcast music...a busy working man with his own denturist business...yes this guys make teeth for a living, married with 3 kids, life is busy.Q9 Sam the eldest, she's shy and observes her fellow people - yukelele Daniella mischievous - which in short says it all- vocals then piano Joey the youngest - is in discovery phase at 2.5 years old - ...not sure yet but nursery rhymes...knick knack patty whack and the instrument of drums being his first pic.
Jason's love for electronic music, oldies, pop and jazz...no top favourites they all influence him and he knows what he likes LOL
He would interview Jesus as a kid growing up and how he integrated with other kids and...
LOVE TAKE ONE the most! Jason Schnell: interview
Music, who taught you and where did this passion come from? Favourite instrument? Digeridoo Amplifier troubles What did you use to inspire you for my podcast theme music? How many hours? Church music Do your kids play? Favourite song/band of all time? If you could meet/interview anyone who would it be?
Thanks for Listening to the podcast and my interview today with Jason Schnell and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment/rating on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts. Music and Sound for this show was edited through Garage Band and the tracks I chose to compliment Jason's interview were:
-Solid 70s Fill 08 - Australian Didgeridoo 01 - Muted Ukulele - Strummed Ukulele 02 - Delicate Piano 04 - Vintage Funk Kit 01 - disco Pop Rhythm Guitar - Jazz Hustle Guitar 02 - Strummed Acoustic 02 and of course TASCAM 40, produced, written and played by Jason Schnell
The intro and outro for this podcast is recorded by London Moss The podcast is written and produced by me Valerie Moss, through Garage Band and WordPress. Thanks for Listening.
https://valeriemoss.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Interview-Jason-Schnell-TASCAM40-vvp17.mp3
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Auditions, Rejections, Musicians, and Historians
Todays show is so exciting for me as I come into my own skin more and more with this podcasting gig I'm getting a better sense of what I want to discuss about Calgary and me as a working professional in this great city. Think of this as a behind the scenes episode. Launching my new podcast music gives me such a sense of pride, this music will be my core sound from now on..consistent in every episode, thanks to Jason for producing this for me.. I had the pleasure of auditioning for a couple other podcasts (Girl in Space and Forgotten News), losing one and winning one gig and being interviewed for another podcast and I'll share my experiences with you today.
Content Designs:
Calgary content from local eats, to travel, history & legends, past news and some of my favourite passions. Suggestions from people like you...so thank you and keep them coming. Did You know you can text me using my email address? valerie@valeriemoss.ca instead of putting in a phone number your test application you can insert the email address.Getting to know the person behind the Calgary podcast and my "what makes me tic' approach to my life. I'm passionate.Great Stories that I come upon from podcasters, working professionals and other topics that drive me to write and podcast.
Let's get into todays episode:
Yay I finally have my own show music and I'm super pumped. Jason Schnell offered to do the music I'm launching today.
Here's what our process was, I sent him an email with my ideas of music I like and sounds I'm attracted to...
Email between Jason and myself with ideas
Studio that recorded my podcast music
Girl in Space
Girl in Space Audition Notes
check out my audition here...how fun!
Here's my rejection letter lol, it was so nice genuine, loved this experience and kudos to them for responding - at least I know where it was at.
Here's my most positive rejection letter. Love this chance!
Forgotten News
Forgotten News Podcast
I came upon a note on a Facebook podcast page from a guy name Jim Goodluck...he was looking for narrations voices guest voice for his podcast called Forgotten News.
Check out their podcast blog Forgotten News Podcast
Welcome to the Forgotten News podcast. This is your window to hear true stories from long ago. Stories that once made headlines. Stories that people thought would be unforgettable, but soon were lost in the sands of time, or were buried deep in the dustbin of history. In this podcast, we brush off the sand and dust, and share those stories with you, today — as fresh as when they were first told.
take a listen...
insert audition here
I was also a guest on the Mess Hall Podcast with Avery Cochrane
visit his podcast at
https://messhallpodcast.podbean.com
this is a weekly podcast where Avery talks to comedians and sometimes other people about food. With his chef background and a love for pizza, wings and good quality food, this was an enjoyable podcast...take a listen.
insert clip here
Thanks for Listening to the podcast and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment/rating on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Two cases from over 40 years ago in Calgary that are worth investigating.
Living in Calgary for the past 22 years has giving me a sense of pride and connection to this amazing city...my entire career is here, we have roots here our daughter born here. I wanted to learn more for this Calgary based podcast so I ventured down to the Central Library and decided to do some research on our history...being born in 1977 I thought I'd start in this era...being a novice crime enthusiast I was attracted to crime in the 1970's but mostly Calgary history weather crime of interesting facts that I found.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calgary_Public_Library
Contact Us
Calgary Public Library616 Macleod Trail S.E.Calgary, Alberta
Calgary Public Library, Central location
After learning how to run the microfiche machine - which was a lesson in itself,
Calgary Central Library microfiche machine
then I figured out how to translate it through a standard PC...ahhh more comfortable here
finally microfiche to digital, more comfortable with this process
Checking out the microfiche film from 1977 January 1-10. As London sat beside me and helped run the microfiche machine. I scoured through many articles to see if anything caught my eye...
I learned very quickly a few hours to be exact that I require many hours at this to a be good at it and b actually find what I'm looking for...one thing about the central library is - it has culture. From the people to the back stairs to the location.
Being centrally located just off the C-Train (LRT) and Macleod trail se you see all walks of life and get a few life lessons along the way. In November Calgary we will be in grand style with our new state of the art central Library.
After I spent a few hours at the Microfiche machines I spoke to one of the workers there who by the way was most helpful and asked about local history- low and behold there's a local history room...
Room: it's not dark and dank but it's older and lighting is okay but a bit minimal
Desks: oak, oak and oak, large library desks excellent for spreading out and completing research
Smell: like it's got some years under it's belt, paper and dust and a bit of stale air
look: oak again, large oak book cases, burgundy low pile carpet and vertical metal filing cabinets with a small thumb bottom to move the lock switch over to open the drawers - one drawer at a time.
feel: cultural and history, encyclopedias, maps, and books of course, news paper clippings
We needed to enter in by a trusted door password which they assist getting you into this room. Once inside I discovered miles of upright metal filing cabinets and book shelves and giant wide desks made out of oak. The lady showed London where the scratch papers and pencils were - which she utilized to the fullest - we are set to investigate and gather some history.
Calgary Local History Room at the Central location for Calgary Public library
I started looking through the fronts of these filing cabinets and then I found what I was looking for..
Crime and Criminals Calgary
then I looked for the years and pulled out these amazing envelopes, London was so intrigued by the newspaper clippings as was I. The neatest thing was all of the cursive handwriting was done by the same person, the Librarian and in pencil.
Calgary Crime in the 1970's
These are all stamped with a typical date stamp in several colours of blue and red all cut up by scissors...I was enthralled in what I found. Browsing through to see what grabbed my attention...two stories over and over came up so these are the two I'm going to start with.
Engine 23 Parked inside the Central Library
Engine 23 Fun Facts
First: Constable William (Bill) Shelever - rookie cop who died too soon on the job, he started as a Welder and then worked hard to become a cop "a chance to do something". A story about a guy who loved what he did,
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Riding bikes in Calgary at Confederation park , stopping for chips and salsa at Julio Barrio's, having the BEST ice cream at Village Square, riding by a colourful container market.
Facing South on a beautiful Summer day in May...
Container Market Visit - Dancing check out their full line up of vendors here, totally worth the stop.
Enjoying the awesome music and culture at the Container Market
Village Ice Cream - Earl Grey
This is the kind of ice cream that you crave in the night. It's luxurious and creamy and always leaves you wanting more - with 3 locations to choose from Victoria Park, Britannia, and Garrison Corner covers all areas of the city - super easy to get to at the Victoria Park location, and the line up out the door to the street - is worth the wait.
enjoying our beautiful city is what we love about summer in Calgary...
Working on some upcoming shows to include Calgary history going back to the 1970's, Mysterious Cold Case, Death of a Policeman, Interview with Jen Jensen of the Thrifty Princess Consignment Boutique.
Thanks for Listening to the podcast and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment/rating on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts.
Music and Sound for this show was edited through Garage Band the music
TASCAM, produced, written and played by Jason Schnell for my podcast (a future episode to come with the making of the music)Shaker sound effect, Container Market and Village Square Ice Cream background eavesdropping, recorded by me Valerie Moss
The intro and outro for this podcast is recorded by London Moss
The podcast is produced by me Valerie Moss, through Garage Band and WordPress.
Listen to the full episode here
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A store tour with me at Thrifty Princess, my favourite consignment store...
Interview with Jen Jensen with Thrifty Princess Consignment ladies wear
What a lucky interview I had with Jen Jensen at Thrifty Princess Boutique as I waited for the interview to start there was a mom and daughter team in there shopping around...they just had such a great time so as I was testing the microphone and the setting I recorded their dialogue, how sweet, I love shopping with London and having fun in this store...trying on clothes and jewellery. Jen is always so genuine and she truly loves what she does and is honest with her shoppers about the items they try on...great feedback. Of course you can hear me in there enjoying all of the items. So tempting. She has such an amazing decorative flair with beautiful antiques within her mix, she has vintage as well as modern high brand names - caters to all.
And Part Two here - includes out takes and mic testing
The cutest antique chair with a top hat just so...
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A store tour with me at Thrifty Princess, my favourite consignment store...
Interview with Jen Jensen with Thrifty Princess Consignment ladies wear
What a lucky interview I had with Jen Jensen at Thrifty Princess as I waited for the interview to start there was a mom and daughter team in there shopping around...they just had such a great time so as I was testing the microphone and the setting I recorded their dialogue, how sweet, I love shopping with London and having fun in this store...trying on clothes and jewellery. Jen is always so genuine and she truly loves what she does and is honest with her shoppers about the items they try on...great feedback. Of course you can hear me in there enjoying all of the items. So tempting. She has such an amazing decorative flair with beautiful antiques within her mix, she has vintage as well as modern high brand names - caters to all.
Listen to part one of this interview here:
Jen Jenson
Pill hat tipped just so...inspiring
Shoes Shoes Shoes
The cutest antique chair with a top hat just so...
Boarded up hole in the wall in her dirt basement storage, leading to tunnels underneath Edmonton Trail...
Cutest dress form placed just so outside the back entrance...free parking
Visit her instagram page Thrifty Princess Boutique or on facebook at ThriftyPrincess Boutique she even sells online...don't forget when you stop by her store located at 810 Edmonton Trail NE, to consign or shop be sure to pay attention to the spirits in her little shop, they're watching you but they are happy...
Listen to Part Two of the episode here:
Working on some upcoming shows
Thanks for Listening to the podcast and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment/rating on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Discussions between mom and daughter...
Q and A between Mom and 6 year old
Interview with my 6 year old daughter about life through her eyes...
at what age is a person an adult?
41 and 18 is a very young adult
at what age do you want to be an adult?
1 then 60
What would be hard thing about being blind
bump into things - a guiding dog would be perfect
What would you rather give up, iPad candy or friend?
ipad
How would you describe yourself?
pretty - nice and fluffy hair
what would someone else and your friends describe you?
interesting
What is the best thing about your mom?
Hugs and kisses and podcasts
podcastes - podcast-ed :0 o cute
If you were a mom what would be the best thing that you would do?
watch iPad bike rides be nice unsupervised bike rides
What do you love most about camping?
(plactus) plastic cheese London describes camping cheese...
Tell me the funny thing or person you know
funny person at school, Mr. Clark
What's the hardest thing about being a child
wants to watch more tv it's hard to make choices
hard to control yourself at school...figure out playing by yourself or with your friends who to play with?
Favourite Pets
hamster and story about fish
Chores
dishwasher
If you were invisible
scare mom and dad.
q and a between Mom and 6 year old Daughter
Listen to the podcast and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts.
Music for this show is provided through Garage Band today we London and I produced our own music using Radio Stager 05 and Sweet Nectar Beat, thanks London for choosing your two favourites.
The intro and outro for this podcast is recorded by London Moss
The podcast is produced by me Valerie Moss, through Garage Band and Wordpress.
Thanks for listening.
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2 amazing inventions from Calgary
Two classics and staples in Calgary...and more
The Caesar CocktailGinger BeefThe Silk Road Spice MerchantKings Western Chinese Restaurant ChainRosso Coffee Roasters Shops
The Caesar
cocktail glass, flood the edge with water, dip in celery salt or a variety of spices, add ice, add clamato juice, add worchestershire
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Worcestershire_sauce
, add tobasco (coming from Tobasco peppers), mix with a spoon add garnish and voila...The ceasar. drank by millions in Canada. it's also been referred to as hangover cure. Is all restaurants they have their version of The ceasar with medleys of garnish like:
pickled beanbaconlarge crab legscelery sticksgreen oliveschicken wingsmini slider burgersonion ringsfried shrimppepperonicheeseasparagus pickledLobster Tailfresh oyster to shuckhorseradish
Invented by Walter Chell in 1969 when he was a chef at the Westin Hotel.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caesar_(cocktail)
clamato juice the secret juice of the ceasar was invented in 1966 - wiki
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clamato
General Thai Menu picture
Ginger Beef
Ginger beef is a Canadian Chinese dish made from beef, ginger, and a distinctive sweet sauce.
The ingredients of ginger beef can depend on where it is featured, but the Western Canadian version generally consists of deep fried strips of beef coated in a dark sweet sauce that is reminiscent of other Asian sauces based on vinegar and sugar. It also contains flavors of ginger, garlic, and hot peppers, and is commonly served with a small amount of juliennedcarrots and onions in the sauce.[1] Ginger beef is derived from the original Geung Ngao Yuk (Chinese: 薑牛肉) dish.
As with many dishes, the invention of ginger beef is claimed by several restaurants and chefs. However, the most widely accepted origin attributes the dish's development during the mid-1970s by chef George Wong at the Silver Inn in Calgary, Alberta.[2][3][4][5] The dish is now a very important part of culture in Calgary and that part of Canada.[4][5][6] A radio segment featuring ginger beef was aired on CBC Radio One programme The Main Ingredient.[7]
http://www.silverinnrestaurant.com/r-inn-restaurant.html
What else is invented in Calgary that you love and couldn't live without?
Some of my Favourite Spices by The Silk Road Spice Merchant
The Silk Road Spice Merchant
- stop by and indulge in the awesomeness of this place with the world of spices around you and the assaulting your every sense - in a good way.
Kings Restaurant, Calgary Alberta
Kings
- for the best hangover curing wonton soup...filled with broccoli, fork dumplings, carrots, salty broth and their special hot sauce.
https://www.rossocoffeeroasters.com/#popup
Rosso coffee roasters
....finish off your day with an excellent cup of coffee or a London Fog.
Thanks for Listening to the podcast and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment or rating on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts.
Music for this show is provided through Garage Band and today I chose
Soul Vocal Topper
The intro for today's podcast is recorded by Janice Wilby who was featured in my Boadcasting for Corrections episode. The out-tro is recorded by London Moss.
The podcast is produced by me Valerie Moss, through Garage Band and Wordpress.
Thanks for listening.
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I’ve been Summoned…have You?
I picked up the mail like any other day and there's a letter from the Alberta government...opening it initially thinking it was for a vehicle fine or something...to my surprise it was a Jury Duty Summons.
A "jury summons" is a court order. It means you have to attend at the time and place stated so that a jury can be selected, unless you have been excused. Although you may not be chosen as a juror, you do have to show up. Serving on a jury in our society is both a privilege and a legal duty.
Jury Summons Important Notice
In Alberta the Jury Duty Rules are:
https://www.alberta.ca/jury-duty.aspx
Courtroom Etiquette:
https://www.alberta.ca/courtoom-etiquette.aspx
Back of the Summons
For as long as I can remember I've wanted to be on a jury, watching all of the crime shows and listening to the different cases on the news I wanted to be part of this experience. I hear lots of people do not want to be on jury duty nor are they honoured or thrilled to get this letter...but I am! I think it's our civic duty to be part of this process. Our taxes and our Right to vote and have an impact. This kind of stuff makes me tic and want to be part of the society we live in. have an impact.
The jurors are charged with the responsibility of deciding whether, on the facts of the case, a person is guilty or not guilty of the offence for which he or she has been charged. The jury must reach its verdict by considering only the evidence introduced in court and the directions of the judge.
There's a part of me that has a bit of a concern if I was to get a case like OJ Simpson or something like this that could financially impact my life long term and my family unit. What about a case of child abuse or animal cruelty - how would I react...I'm prepared in some ways understanding this would be a serious offence and the people on trial may not be understood or understandable....wish me luck. Tell me your story and I'll add it to a future episode. Send me an email and let me know what it was like or leave me a comment through your podcast app or in my show feed.
Over 20 years ago my dad was on a jury, at the time I didn't know although I was in school and living with him at my childhood home, he kept this a complete secret from me. He got up and went to "work" every day like normal, I had no idea until it was over. He had a very hard case to decide on the the victim in his case was a teenage girl and her name was Valerie.. couldn't be closer to home for him. It was a tough case and has stayed with him for a number of years. It was about a bunch of teenagers driving around in a car drinking and having a good time, until they weren't. There was a car accident, the one girl (Valerie) was struck by a tape deck and she bled to death - the biggest part of the story from my dad's perspective was the driver was concerned about the stolen tape deck and not about this girl bleeding to death - such a bad decision for him. The poor girl died due to his lack of concern - again from my dad's perspective.
Listen here:
Unfortunately even before I got this episode recorded my chance at jury duty was cancelled. I was working on a job site the day before when I had to call in to ensure that this was still on and scheduled so I called the number for verification and to my dismay - it was cancelled...how disappointed was i? Very....If you have a Juicy jury duty story or want to share your experience with me I'd love to hear from you...
Thanks for Listening to the podcast and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment or rating on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts.
Music for this show is provided through Garage Band and today I chose
Doghouse Melody Piano
Sound effects used today are
Record Player Scratching
The intro for today's podcast is recorded by Janice Wilby who was featured in my Boadcasting for Co...
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"Which one is better?"
Restaurant Scrutiny
The Calgary TowerWellingtonsThe Keg
History of the Calgary Tower
located at 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1J9
The Calgary Tower originally called the Husky Tower is a 190.8-meter (626 ft) free standing observation tower Originally called the Husky Tower, it was conceived as a joint venture between Marathon Realty Company Limited and Husky Oil 10,884 tonnes, of which 60% is below ground. It opened to the public on June 30, 1968 as the tallest structure in Calgary, and the tallest in Canada outside Toronto. It was renamed the Calgary Tower in 1971.
A gas fired cauldron was constructed at the top by Canadian Western Natural Gas 1987 as a gift to celebrate the '88 OlympicsThe torch, which consumes 850 cubic metres (30,000 cu ft) per hour, was first lit on February 13, 1988 when the Games opened, and burned 24 hours a day throughout. It continues to be re-ignited for various special events, including Canada Day Christmas celebrations, world events, as well as during the flames play off games.
The glass floor extension was constructed on the north side of the tower's observation deck and opened on June 24, 2005. When standing on the glass, one can look straight down on 9th Avenue South and Centre Street.
Multicolour exterior lighting system was added and was first tested on August 1, 2014. 12 lights were added to the crown and 24 to the exterior floor. Each light has been programmed to be able to create over 16.5 million combinations of colour and lighting effects since 2014 becoming a more noticeable part of the city skyline at night.
My birthday
night out planned
got a sitter
taking an UBER
Enjoying the moment and exploring the big 50th Anniversary for Calgary Tower, Sky 360 revolving restaurant. Here's a recap of our evening and how we remember this amazing place.
atmosphere, tables, lighting and feeling, washrooms
Our rating of this establishment and our desire to return, apologizing to Wellingtons.
History of Wellingtons of Calgary
Located at 10325 Bonaventure Dr SE, Calgary, AB T2J
This restaurant boasts higher end, men in jackets ladies in nice cocktail dresses, they are famous for table side from scratch ceasar salad, the atmosphere is dim and quaint, the people murmur at their tables the service is impeccable.
20 years and more for Jeff
Celebrations of birthdays and anniversatireis for years
small glass room with the grill - same chef for likely 20 years possibly longer has been...
describe the atmosphere
cherry jubilee fire side tale service
famous for their Wellington
Beef Wellington is a preparation of fillet steak coated with pâté (often pâté de foie gras) and duxelles, which is then wrapped in puff pastry and baked. Served with seasonal veggies, and a starch with a side of gravy. Superb. They have amazing seafood dishes like neptune smothered in a delightful sauce with perfectly paired sides.
table side caesar salad is must when you go there, it's fresh and wonderful!
Stadium Keg
Stadium Shopping Centre - 1923 Uxbridge Drive NW
Tricky parking due to construction at hospital
It was founded in 1971 in North Vancouver, British Columbia as The Keg 'n Cleaver by George Tidball at one very small, downstairs location in an old industrial building in the Moodyville area of lower Lonsdale and today operates in almost all Canadian provinces and and five American states. The Keg is well known for buying up historic manors and turning them into restaurants. Examples of this are the Keg Mansion in Toronto, and the Keg Manor at the Maplelawn Estate in Ottawa. Also notable as heritage restorations are the Kegs in Kamloops, British Columbia, which was a CN Station and in New Westminster, British Columbia, which was formerly the city's CPR station.
In 2018, Cara Operations announced their intention to purchase The Keg for $200 million,
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... "we were on the Kings property"
Welcome back to part Two Interview with an Expatriate, Born in Calgary Living in Qatar thanks for joining me for the second part of this two part series, if you haven't listened to the first segment I'd recommend you do this first to provide you background into today conversation. Onto, enjoying today's episode about the King of Qatar, weather, muslim culture, teaching, shopping and advice.
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... "we were on the Kinds property"
There isn't many people I come across since living in Calgary that are actually born here...but my dad, Michael Swain was born here at the Calgary General Hospital. He went back to school later in life completing his Masters in Business Administration and then packing up his bags looking for new experiences, across the pond. Finding an opportunity as a Professor in a Commerce school in Doha, Qatar which lasted 7 years.
welcome to the show Michael Swain...
where were you bornCalgary General HospitalWhat school did you go to?Live?Where did you mom and dad work
Check out this link for Imperial Oil
what do you remember about their jobs?what year was thisStampede memories in Calgary
Best memory of Calgarycoming to calgary now...What does it mean to be an expat?
Saskatchewan Polytechnique
College of the North Atlantic.
Weather in Qatar
Muslim
Welcome back to part Two Interview with an Expatriate, Born in Calgary Living in Qatar thanks for joining me for the second part of this two part series, if you haven't listening to the first segment I'd recommend you do this first to provide you background into today conversation. Enjoy today's episode about the King of Qatar, weather, muslim culture, teaching, shopping and advice.
Thank's for listening to Today's episode if I've left anything out or you'd like to learn more about Michael's tenure in Qatar let me know. Let me know what you think by leaving me a comment or rating on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts.
Part One
Coming up on the next episode I will be reviewing a few Calgary Restaurants and our amazing and not so amazing experiences
Calgary TowerWellingtonsStadium Keg
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..."All people deserve respect"
Welcome to the final chapter Part Two of our interview with a Warden - catch the first part here.
Welcome Darren Reeves, Warden for over 25 years...in corrections and policing, he is a very deep thinker and takes his position in society serving the public with humble and respectful thoughts, he's careful and methodical about his occupation and his opinions are constantly regarded for others at any level including inmates and colleagues. Treating people right regardless of what they've done, he has a very foot forward position to process. Make effective changes in someone else life, we are all human. This episode was recorded in Dalmeny Saskatchewan in my dad's dining room setting, as you can hear there's family mulling about in the background..., enjoy the episode!
Level of security.Step by Step Processing7 Different facilitiesWomen Correctional InstitutesProcess'sWorst Situation, Best memory?How did you meet Janice...
Thanks for Listening to the podcast and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment or rating on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts.
Part Two
Music for this show is provided through Garage Band and Darrin's love for Jazz influenced our pic today:
Jazzy Downtemp!
The podcast is produced by me Valerie Moss, through Garage Band and WordPress.
Coming up on the next episode an interview with an Expat, Michael Swain..born right here in Calgary at the General Hospital, his experience with Stampede, later in life achieving his Masters in Business Administration then moving across the world in search of life experiences landed him a Professor position with a commerce school in Doha Dubai.
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..."all people deserve respect"
Welcome Darren Reeves, Warden for over 25 years...in corrections and policing, he is a very deep thinker and takes his position in society serving the public with humble and respectful thoughts, he's careful and methodical about his occupation and his opinions are constantly regarded for others at any level including inmates and colleagues. Treating people right regardless of what they've done, he has a very foot forward position to process. Make effective changes in someone else life, we are all human. This episode was recorded in Dalmeny Saskatchewan in my dad's dining room setting, as you can hear there's family mulling about in the background..., enjoy the episode!
Level of security. Step by Step Processing 7 Different facilities Women Correctional Institutes Process's Worst Situation, Best memory? How did you meet Janice...
Thanks for Listening to the podcast and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment or rating on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts Part One https://valeriemoss.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Interview-with-a-Warden-PartOne-vvp7-a.mp3 Coming up on the next episode an interview with an Expat, Michael Swain..born right here in Calgary at the General Hospital, his experience with Stampede, later in life achieving his Masters in Business Administration then moving across the world in search of life experiences landed him a Professor position with a commerce school in Doha Dubai.
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a special guest episode "I work with Corrections & Policing" with Janice Reeves
Welcome Janice Wilby (Reeves) to the show...she came from good humble beginnings surviving a 5 car pile up as a teenager, moving into a small aboriginal town starting highschool with her mom and younger sister, having a baby at a young age, going back to school and ending up as a communications consultant in Policing and Corrections where she loves to push continuous improvement everyday...she's also met her fiancé in jail...enjoy the episode. Broadcasting for Corrections and her history of pushing for change.
Where/When did we meet? Meadow Lake Saskatchewan1992 accident, September 31993 moved to meadow lake at 15 years oldOur ParentsFavourite memory about living in Meadow Lake with our blended family...and a pig named StellaHaving a daughter at a young ageSuper proud of youTell me about how your career has evolvedHow did you and Darrin meet....
Thanks for Listening to the podcast and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts.
Music for this show is provided through Garage Band and due to Janice's love for the blues...we've chosen
Funky Electric Guitar 03
The intro and outro for this podcast is recorded by Janice Wilby
The podcast is produced by me Valerie Moss, through Garage Band and WordPress.
Coming up on the next episode an interview with veteran warden for over 20 years....have you been in jail or spent time in corrections, if you have or know someone who has send me a note at Valerie@ValerieMoss.ca with your story as I'd love to hear it!
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A personal story about an intruderArlo Surveillance System Review
My husband left for work the other morning and left the garage door opened for 5 mins.
We live in the community of Mount Pleasant in Calgary’s north west part of the city. This community has been around since.... it’s main homes are from the 1950’s. Currently there’s many homes from the 50’s that are being knocked down and companies are building large infills-duplex or semi detached style. Just around our house there’s probably 4 or more directly around our street. Most of the workers on these site appear to be foreigners and immigrants.- description of intruder this guy was approx 180 pounds about 5’10” or so sandy blond hair. Wearing a red safety construction vest and looked to be work boots.- how he was positioned in my carr- pepper spray- story of Tom Dunn- what he stole - description and type of bike
birth certificate story
gift cards and amounts
as well as breaking my signal light switch for my brights- Londons description of the silver truck- where else the robber other locations- fire showing up- what ward I live in- number for 911- construction in the neighbourhood- dogs next door- review the serveilance system Arlo this system comes complete with x4 camera as well as several mounting devices that are magnetic with an additional option of screwing it into position so the thief cannot steel the camera.
Thanks for Listening to the podcast and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts.
Music for this show is provided through Garage Band
Isabela topperSeventie's Conga
Including the sound effects:
Dialing EchoTimecode TopperPolice Car Siren
The intro and outro for this podcast is recorded by London Moss
The podcast is produced by me Valerie Moss, through Garage Band and WordPress.
Coming up on the next episode,an interview with my Step -Sister Janice...communications consultant for media and corrections...
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Strike, Briiinnnnggg - Ahhh
a new podcast review beer tidbit Sunday’s at National alarm clock for a 6 year old
We've been steeling away lately -now that our daughter is 6 and can be dropped off at a left at a birthday party - and heading to The National for a couple hours of adult time it’s been fabulous - We start with x6, 3 each oysters east coast is our favourite served on a bed of crushed ice, with freshly grated horseradish and 3 sauces to spoon on with a tiny spoon that likely holds several drops- you sprinkle on either the tomatoe based, sweet one OR the zingy vinegar pickle one OR the sweet sauce all are clear sauces and you have to put all three on with a topping of fresh ginger so yummy Next: - seafood chowder made with House smoked cod, crab and lobster pieces mussels and scallops as well as veggies in a rich broth Let me see i can describe this soup! It’s rich and luxurious I’m not one to choose clam chowder like ever then my hubby said we should try it - worth the risk - next we order tater tots with a spicy may on the side - that’s basically it Add enjoy a tasty pint of raspberry beer on the side... all good and worth the stop last weekend we happened to be downtown walking and snapping photos when we decided we needed this lunch - even tho we were with London - yep now she knows our secret and after we ate this amazing combination the waitress asked if we were going to bowl we knew there was a bowling alley in the basement of this National location but didn’t know it was free on Sundays with a meal... We played and enjoyed for an hour or so what a nice way to end the day here’s some of my walking pics! My podcast review this week is...
Under the Influence gives you a rare backstage pass into the hallways, boardrooms and recording studios of the ad industry. Terry O'Reilly has a great voice, convincing plot lines and I always want more episodes. He has first hand experience, produces his podcast out of an airstream mobile studio.
alarm.... well it’s official our 6 year old is waking up by alarm clock and she likes it and its working so...we have an old iPhone with no SIM card - works off wifi anyway w showed her how to charge - it set the time and pick her alarm sound then voila she’s in like Flynn 3 days in a row worked!! beer tidbit!! Listen to the podcast and let me know what you think by leaving me a comment on iTunes, stitcher, google play, blubrry and tuneIn radio or wherever you get your podcasts. Music for this show is provided through Garage Band Isabela Topper 80 Mirage Topper Jazzy Downtempo Carla Lyric Ping Pong Topper including the sound effects of the bowling strike, alarm clock as well as the rooster call, The intro and outro for this podcast is recorded by London Moss The podcast is produced by me Valerie Moss, through Garage Band and Wordpress. Thanks for listening. https://valeriemoss.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Bowling-Anyone-Alarm-Clock-Beer-Advice-vvp4.mp3
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yes we got married in a haunted house...
- Calgary Urban legend
- Calgary Food Spot Favourites -Work and Safety https://valeriemoss.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/HauntedDeanhouse-vvp3.mp3 Urband Legend: Deane House Quoted from Avenue Magazine: A lot of myths centre around the Deane House, which sits on the other side of the Inglewood bridge from Fort Calgary. The house was built in 1906 but only moved to its present location in 1926. Allegedly, suicides, murders and other accidental deaths have occurred in this home throughout the years, although only two deaths can be confirmed. CAPI investigators have accumulated proof that the building is “most definitely haunted.” Photographs taken in the hopes of documenting evidence are often blurry and inconclusive, and charge on fully charged recorders will drain upon entering the attic. Paranormal researchers refer to this as “a vortex” or an electromagnetic disturbance. According to those who frequent the house, a disconnected telephone will often ring followed by the smell of cigar smoke. Perhaps even more enigmatic is the bloodstain in the attic that frequently changes in size and colour. The bloodstain sits just outside of a closet, which will not remain locked despite the efforts of staff. Staff are quoted as saying they’ve tried to lock the closet only to return and find the door open and the lock lying on the floor. Any objects left in the closet will be found outside of the closet, a few metres away, with the doors open. We were married in the Deane House September 8, 2001 yes 3 days before the awful 911 event of our lives. There was discussions around the Deane House being haunted while we were having our reception at this location - kind of added to the mystery of this historic site. I remember being in the giant bathrooms in the upper floors and feeling like we were being watched - cold and chilly. Calgary Food Spots to Try... a couple of our favourite food spots to try are: 4th spot restaurant and bar, located on 4 street around 24th avenue NW.
it's quaint, shows the mixed demographic that lives in this area, tonnes of families, there's a bar upstairs - some-people use it for great meeting places and the food is amazing. We once held a birthday party in their small private room - just a perfect setting. They have an old fashion buffet that's full of toys for kids...one time with London and I were there she pulled out an etch-a-sketch and asked me what that was...modern day iPad sweetie. LOL Their menu is comfort food, pizza's pastas and good burgers plus they have daily specials like beer and a burger, Wednesday wing night. They also have fun names for their food like Pop-eys' mistress is an awesome vegetarian pizza or Olive Oil another vegetation option that has truffle oil and they are both yummy - great fries also.
the second place I'd like to review is the Carriage House Inn, it's off Macleod Trail SE and 90 Avenue. This Hotel and Banquet facility has the best brunch in Calgary (in my opinion) plus I worked there for many years when I first moved here. The Carriage house always holds a special place in my heart, it reminded me of the days when I would work banquets with my dad and growing up in the restaurant industry and hospitality. Anyway the food is the best for brunch, a bit pricey but worth the money. A great variety of meet, seafood and vegetarian dishes plus they pan fry huge shrimps in butter and garlic and it wafts in the air as you're filling your plates. they also typically have an amazing chocolate fountain with fresh fruit - totally worth the stop. 50 years this year - coffee deals
The lady that ran the bakery in the hotel, Netty made the best buns - and I even worked with her to make batches of perogy's - she ran a Kosher bakery out of this facility which made it a very sought after spot.
Safety Basics Course In a previous episode I discussed the challenges of implementing Health and Safety within my company due to the changes in le...
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chinook arch's, falling of a Canadian Band and First Aid training.
Calgary Weather, is it warming up? Cooling down? Snowing, What?! The confused weather pattern lately. In the News...Hedley? Canadian Idol falls "Arm Chair Expert"? Or should I say... Small Company, Big Problems? Calgary Update: The weather, there's never a shortage of things to discuss about the weather here. One day like yesterday it was plus 5 (celsius) and another day it's minus 11 (celsius) like today. if you suffer from headaches of any amount, this weather is a killer - as the barometric pressure messes with your senses. This can be the case in migraine sufferers as well as non-migraine sufferers. I'll tell you a story about this happening to me when I first moved here...more about the weather. Today we have yet another weather system moving into the city, if you're listening to this next week or in the coming weeks, this has likely passed already however were expecting 10-20 cms which is equivalent to 4-8" a $hit tonne of snow. So weather stationed are cautioning us to from travel. In the news: I just want to touch on how Hedley has hit the news a lot this week. This is such an unsavoury moment to happen to anyone including a celebrity. You know I'm a fan of this great Canadian musical act corrected, was a fan, However when a band thinks they can act in this manner and possibly get away with this kind of conduct, it's just one of those things you add to the unthinkable list. Here's some background on Hedley. Jacob (lead singer) was born in Surrey British Columbia in Western Canada, one of the most beautiful provinces in our great country. He won the second Season of Canadian Idol - which in itself is a feat! Plus he married his high school sweetheart is now divorced. So how does something like this happen, is it fame, is it feeling like you won't get caught or no one will expose your bad side? being invincible, I'm sure at many times you likely feel this way as a celebrity, and possibly due to the recent #metoo moment we are all living in, this he has thought and the band has thought and reflected about changing their liberal lifestyle. What a shame for such an amazing group of musicians to come to and end overnight. This kind-of leads me into my second thought for this episode. I recently came upon another podcast while reviewing Calgary themed (variety) podcasts (and realized there's more bible and evangelistic-church-centric podcasts than any other podcast reflecting Calgary) Not that I mind, but where' the rest of Calgary content on podcasts for iTunes? Dax Shepard and the arm chair expert was one that came up in my scroll feed - This podcast has quickly became one of my favourites with Dax, I've always been a big fan of his earlier acting on "jackass" (don't hold this against me) and later on in Parenthood, great actor and character role here. The thing I love the most about this show - psst DAX would you like to be interviewed on VsquareD? is the fact that he's just so grounded and genuine. I've only listened to one show so far and not the first or second show but episode 6 with Pete Wentz, who btw is from Fall Out Boys, the was an excellent insight to this guy's life of making it big. He is calm, humble, and very interesting at telling a story, he's a huge fan of his son - who btw pulled him out of depression. I agree with this wholeheartedly as being a mom of a 6yo has taught me to be more patient, have more fun, realize things in a new way...totall Pete I get the feeling. So, I'm in the process of implementing policies in my company for Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S)as currently we have a really high rating with WCB due to a number of factors and claims over the years. I'm working on building a program to help put us on the path of COR (Certificate of Recognition) and man is this every going to be an interesting path. Have you done this within your company - please share your thoughts and struggles with me.
episode 1 season 1
Why a podcast?
Valerie's Variety Podcast Welcome to Episode 1 -PILOT
Why a Podcast Living in the Calgary area Working as a project manager.
Why a podcast? I've blogged for years even surpassing 200 posts on quilting, sewing and my own opinions -now that's a feat!. VSquareD is a new outlet for me because I have something to tell and have an opinion that I want to share and I listen to so many excellent podcasts on my daily communute that have inspired me to do this. Variety is what I'm looking to put out there for your opinions, your feedback, teach me something, influence me, challenge me and I hope to do the same. LIVE WORK PLAY, what makes you TIC Podcast also known as autoblogging started in the 1980's - there's more than 250,000 podcasts on iTunes in more than 100 languages, some of my favourite podcasts are (not necessarily in this order)
Someone Knows Something a podcast about unsolved crimes in Canada. David Riggen is now on season 4 of this intense excellently produced podcast, he has a great way of telling a story The Minds of Madness - True Crime Stories an investigative discovery, uncovering event, circumstances and state of mind which cause ordinary people to do unthinkable things. Tyler's voice is edgy but soft spoken and slightly slow however the stories never let me down S-Town- S.Town or shit town is a podcast from Serial and This American Life, Host Brian Reed about a man named John who despise his Alabama town and decides to do something about it. He asks Brian to investigate the some of a wealth family who allegedly been bragging that he go away with murder, but when someone else ends up dead, the search for the truth leads to a nasty feud a hunt for hidden treasure and an unearthing of the mistrials of ones man's life.
Calgary, also known as cow town located in the southern part of Alberta in Western Canada. Where prairies and mountains meet, oil fields are in abundance and destination skiing and winter sports is what everyone talks about. Calgary is home to the most famous Major in the world, Mayor Nenshi - who's been on the ballot box line up for 3 consecutive votes and won each time. why because he's grounded, fair and fearless. Isn't this what we all want in ourselves. Known for the Calgary Stampede and the Calgary Flames Hockey Team - Living in Calgary for almost 20 years, my entire career is here, my history is here - we have roots here. I love it here, the weather is hot and dry in the summer getting up to mid to high 30's (low 90's in fahrenheit in the summer and mid to low -30 degrees celcius in the winter is -22 F, for you southerners it's super cold, for us yep is super cold too. Have you been to this awesome city? If so share your story and I'll share it out (or now depends how you feel) Work? Something most of us are committed to and can't avoid I'm a Senior Project Manager for a Signage Company, my first task was to install 7000 signs into the new International Airport Expansion project in Calgary, the 4th largest Airport in Canada. Our scope of the project was supposed to be completed in 6 months was eventually completed in 3 years - we had 160 change orders and 170 sign types. the majority of our change orders happened in the last 3 months of the whole project, just before opening. Talk about pressure. The best part was completion, the worst part was being bullied, harassed and put to the test every single day on this job. Looking back I basically received a whole lifetime of experience as I was the superintendent on site, a female, in her 30's among 1500 other trades and all men - life lessons were learned. Have you worked on a constuction site? which site? Thank you for listening to Valerie's Variety Podcast I hope you enjoyed this pilot episode, please leave me a comment, a rating on itunes . Please visit valeriemoss.ca for show notes, links to today's topics. this episode is written through WordPress, researched and produced through Garageband by me,...