Being a Canadian

 

The current discourse surrounding the potential separation of Alberta is a deeply disturbing development that threatens the very foundation of our country. Pushing for a referendum to break away from Canada is a reckless idea that flies in the face of our shared history and identity.

 

This internal instability is even more dangerous when we look at the state of the world around us. We are currently facing a volatile global landscape, made worse by a self-serving administration in the United States led by a president who appears to care only for his own interests and those of his billionaire friends. In such an unpredictable international environment, breaking apart our own nation is the height of irresponsibility.

 

Throughout history, allegiance to one's nation was considered a sacred bond, and those who attempted to dismantle a country from within were rightly viewed as traitors to the state. We already witnessed this betrayal and subsequent disappointment with Quebec’s failed attempts to separate, which achieved nothing but division and economic instability.

 

Furthermore, the financial cost of pursuing this ridiculous referendum is an absolute

waste of public resources. At a time when everyday citizens are struggling, our provincial priorities are completely backward. The immense funding being poured into studying and debating separation should instead be used to address real crises, such as housing the homeless and feeding those in need.

 

We must reject this divisive movement, remain united as Canadians, and focus our resources on helping vulnerable people rather than chasing a destructive political fantasy.

 

VOTE CANADIAN 

Wicking Bed Planters

The IBC totes worked great for wicking beds, so I decided to make some smaller versions for the deck.

Check out the You Tube video below for a full picture tour!
 

Pictures of 2024 wicking bed gardens below.

The IBC totes worked great for wicking beds, so I decided to make some smaller versions for the deck.

I started by purchasing two rain barrel bulkhead fittings. These allow the barrels to be drained in the fall so they won’t split during freezing winter temperatures. After cutting the barrels in half, I drilled a hole in the bottom of each one for the bulkhead fitting. I then added a bit of water to test them and make sure there were no leaks.

The next step is creating the water reservoir at the bottom of the planter. This space stores the water that will eventually wick up to the plant roots. I used a plastic container for this layer and drilled many holes in it so water can freely move in and out of the space.

A piece of plastic pipe is used as the fill spout. The pipe should extend above the soil level so the planter can be easily filled. I drilled a hole large enough for the pipe to fit through, and cut the bottom of the pipe at an angle so it doesn’t sit flush on the base. This allows water to flow freely into the reservoir.

Once the water layer is in place, a barrier is added to keep the soil separate from the reservoir. I use landscape fabric for this. I used the same material in the IBC totes, and they’ve been working perfectly for three years now. The fabric is tucked down into the spaces so the sand layer will still make contact with the water below.

Next, a layer of sand is added. At this point, I drill a ½-inch overflow hole in the side of the barrel at the top of the reservoir level. This hole allows excess water to drain out so the soil doesn’t become waterlogged. It also acts as an indicator when filling the planter—once water begins to come out of the hole, the reservoir is full.

For soil, I use our homemade compost. Mr. FT makes sure we have plenty ready every spring.

Finally, the flowers are planted, and just like that the deck community garden is complete.

Check out my short YouTube video for the full tour 

 

Cheers!

Ikea Hack for Kids Artwork

When the morning sun hits just right, it’s usually a welcome sight—unless you’re in the middle of a serious card game. To block the glare without breaking the bank, many DIYers turn to the

IKEA SCHOTTIS pleated blind

, an inexpensive and versatile staple often used for temporary or custom window solutions. These paper-like blinds are famous for being easy to cut to size with regular scissors and attach quickly with a built-in adhesive strip, making them the perfect "blank canvas" for a creative home hack.

This particular project turned a simple functional fix into a sentimental masterpiece by involving the grandkids. Using the pleated surface as a giant scroll, the boys filled the entire blind with colorful doodles and art. It transformed a basic white window covering into a fantastic gallery of family memories. Now, every morning when the blinds go down to keep the sun off the cards, they reveal a beautiful, hand-drawn masterpiece that makes the daily game even more special.