Yesterday I got some new beans. Coffee beans that is. A local distributor of Asantae Java, named “Al in Marpole”graciously offered to send me some samples of an anti-oxidant laden coffee to try. He read I was somewhat of an addict of GOOD Joe. I have mentioned this coffee before so for those who read regularly, this isn’t new…but if you’re stopping by for the first time, stay tuned and come back for my full review. I haven’t opened the beans yet because we have probably one more pot of our Kicking Horse to use up and then we will break the seal…so to speak. If the idea of Asantae Java appeals to you, and you live in the Lower Mainland, it’s being brewed up in White Rock at the Breezeway Cafe and coming soon to a kiosk in Lougheed Mall. “Al in Marpole” can be reached at healthycoffee@inoutbox.com and trust me, he’s prompt with the replies and will answer ANY and all questions you have about this coffee.

Speaking of coffee, I came across this site the other day for ‘freshly ground fortified gourmet coffee’ that can help a person to lose weight, among other claims. Uh huh. Diet coffee? There is a Dieting Blend, an Energy Blend (say what??) and an Immune Builder blend available- plus others. I’m skeptical. I haven’t really combed over the website yet to see how exactly they claim these coffee blends to work. Since the beans are roasted, and the roasting process is really HOT…then I’m wondering how the coffee can  be fortified. Obviously the coffee would come to you ground, so there’s a little freshness lost already…I’m not sure yet if it’s worth some research yet.

This rain is getting me down. Day #3 of not getting out on my bike. Yeah I know…I should/could be more of a hard-core urban cyclist and get out and pedal in the rain like a real West Coaster. *Grumble, grumble* But I don’t wanna!! I don’t relish the idea of cycling in driving rain while the rain slices into my face, my contacts smearing up and my body going cold from the wind. No, I don’t like the sound of that at all. That my friends, does NOT sound like a good time. Friday is supposed to bring sunshine to these parts so I will wait patiently and hope. These “spring blahs” are really getting to me though.

I can’t believe I didn’t know this but May 1-7 was National Emergency Preparedness Week. Maybe it’s because we don’t have Cable TV anymore that I didn’t hear about this or maybe it’s because of that rock I live under. One would think our government would find this very important to get the message out for, and somehow find a way to get the information out to more people. I thought it would be a good thing to mention now because I know we all say we are going to make those emergency kits…but how many of us have actually done it? Who can’t make a little time on the weekend to put aside some emergency supplies and rations? We have the time, we can make the time…no doubt about it. So what are we waiting for? This is a perfect time to sit down with your family and KNOW THE RISKS, MAKE A PLAN AND GET A KIT. And while you’re at it, don’t forget about your pets. They need an emergency kit too. The Global Animal site has some fantastic information and step-by-step instructions on how to ensure your furry family members are taken care of in the event of a disaster.

 This was also news to me- it was National Receptionist Day today. Don’t worry if you missed it, you can still say “thank you” from the heart tomorrow and let those people on the front lines know how much you appreciate them. A little gift is nice too…

I’m signing off now because I’m wracked with cramps and Little Benny wants to cuddle.