Hockey Highlights & History @CanMusHistory #HockeyExhibit #Ad #CanadianMuseumofHistory #Ottawa

Ain't Nothin' more Canadian than Hockey, Eh!

Disclosure: I was invited as media to a guided tour of the #HockeyExhibit at the Canadian Museum of History free of  charge.

The Canadian Museum of History has pulled together a wonderful #HockeyExhibit that celebrates and highlights the tradition and history of Hockey in Canada. And it seems like a perfect outing to kickoff your celebration of Canada's 150th Birthday. 

The pictures below give you a small sampling of the interesting items you'll find on display in this exhibit. You'll also find all sorts of fan paraphernalia, artifacts, art, video and images, including several player contracts dating back to 1949. The Hockey Exhibit has interactive and multi-media components that make it fun regardless of where you sit on the hockey fan-dom scale. 

Hockey Fan-dom Scale:

• 0-3 FAN-potential: You know nothing about hockey. You're not sure what off-side or icing means. You watch the play-off games, but usually because someone else has control of the remote. I'm sure after seeing the #HockeyExhibit you'll be at least FAN-like.
• 4-8 FAN-like: You like hockey, and watch hockey on occasion. You would not say no to free tickets. You may be like me and your interest in hockey started when you were forced to learn what equipment goes where and how when your kids started to play hockey. You have fan potential. You know a bit but you're not an expert. After seeing the #HockeyExhibit you'll know enough to be considered a full fledged FAN. Grab yourself some cool hockey para-fan-alia at the gift shop on the way out so you look like a true fan. 
• 9-10 FAN: You're a fan. You love the game. You definitely watch and track your favourite team and the current season. You own at least one team Jersey and wear when going to a game, or while watching games at home. You might even wear it out and about on game days. Just add a few bits of para-fan-alia, and share some of the cool facts you learn at the #HockeyExhibit and you're well on your way to being a Super-FAN.
• 10+ Super-FAN: You're an extreme hockey fan! You live for hockey, it's the ONLY sport worth watching. You can quote hockey stats going back at least 10 years. You have a large collection of hockey jerseys (both home and away game Jerseys) and para-fan-alia (which you may have a separate shrine room where you display it). You wear your team jersey and or colours on every game day. You own at least one pair of hockey pyjamas and slippers. You plan vacations (and maybe your honeymoon) around the playoffs. You've probably painted your face in your team colours at least once (a season). You are indeed CRAZY ... about hockey. So clearly the #HockeyExhibit is a must see, if only to say "I knew that" at each display.

You can tour the #HockeyExhibit at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau Quebec (Ottawa), but only until October 9th, 2017. So I suggest you get a move on!

He shots! ... He scores!

Then ... 
You'll find many artifacts to help you see and understand (and maybe reminisce) the history of hockey in Canada. Even if you're not a hockey buff, you're sure to enjoy seeing the variety of player, team, and hockey related items on display. Everything from cereal to soup cans demonstrate the degree hockey has impacted the Canadian culture. 

Now ...
There will always be Canadian kids hoping to follow in the footsteps of Canadian hockey greats. And we have so many greats, and have always had so much hockey talent for our youth (both male and female) to look to for inspiration.  

These darlings belong to my friend who blogs at ReeseSpeaks Blog. 

Be sure to check out what the VP's had to say about their visit to the Hockey Exhibit.

And just because it's fun ...

Again you really don't need to be a big hockey fan to enjoy the varied and fun items and artifacts on display in the #HockeyExhibit. 

You can learn more at the Canadian Museum of History website, or follow them on twitter, facebook or instagram. And if you're looking for a fun hockey souvenir or para-fan-alia the Museum Gift Shop has a fun collection of hockey related items at all price points. 

Yep, just me Cathy thinking out loud about the #HockeyExhibit at the Canadian Museum of History. 

Don't Miss #HorsePower & #GoldRushExhibit at #CanadianMuseumOfHistory @canmushistory

Gold Rush - Dorado in British Columbia Exhibit at the Canadian Museum of History.

Worth It's Weight in Gold. 

Hold Your Horses! Before you go be sure to trot on over to the Horse Power - The Paul Bienvenu Carriage Collection Exhibit.

You know me always thinking out loud. This time to share a few "nuggets" of wisdom about two special exhibits currently at the Canadian Museum of History. Both exhibits have a "gold mine" of fascinating facts and artifacts which give a window into specific parts of our Canadian history.

There's gold in them thar hills ...
Until Jan 15th, 2017 you can explore the 280 artifacts that tell the story of the British Columbia's Gold Rush, and where it fits into the timeline of gold rushes around the world. On display are some extraordinary works of art, miner's tools and even a real restored stagecoach. You'll also learn all sorts of interesting facts and information about gold's "uses in science, technology and medicine".

Chasing the dream ...
This exhibit provides a window into life during the British Columbia Gold Rush, how it impacted Canada's immigration, colonization, culture and "helped to shape the Canada we know today". 

Here for a good time but not a long time ...
The Gold Rush exhibit is a collaborative effort between the Canadian Museum of History and the Royal BC Museum, and gives those outside British Columbia a limited time opportunity to see these artifacts from this interesting period in Canadian history. In other words it's not permanent so be sure to take advantage and explore this exhibit while you can.

Since this Thing 1 seems to think he's worth his actual weight in gold ... the debate continues. 

Hold your horses ...
You can't leave yet. That would be like putting the the cart carriage before the horse. EXTENDED! Until January 7th , 2018, 2017 you can explore Horse Power - The Paul Bienvenu Carriage Collection. This unique collection of 18 horse-drawn carriages and sleighs demonstrate the superior craftsmanship and attention to detail that when into these vehicles. The mode of transportation one drove back then, like now acted as both a way of getting from A to B and as symbol of wealth and social status.  

Transported back in time ...
This collection exhibits both the evolution of horse-drawn vehicles, and highlights carriage and sleigh designs and makers that are uniquely Canadian, including 14 made in Quebec. The Canadian climate influenced how people and goods were transported, which in turn impacted the design and materials used to manufacture horse-drawn vehicles. If it was merely to function as a (excuse the pun) work horse decoration and ornamentation would be minimal. On the other hand if the sleigh or carriage was about making a statement on your social status, or it's purpose was to allow for socializing this was reflected in the design, as evident in the intentional decision to manufacture roofless sleighs allowing one to "be seen". Like a Louis Vuitton trunk, a sleigh or carriage could be a sign of wealth.

Also interesting about this exhibit ...

The Musees de la civilisation in Quebec City developed this exhibit drawing from the more than 213 horse-drawn vehicles donated by Paul Bienvenu. Using 18 carriages and sleighs this exhibit not only examines the history and evolution of horse-drawn vehicles in Canada, but also ties them to famous or historically significant events or Canadians who owned or used these vehicles. 

Don't be shy, get social with the Canadian Museum of History: on twitter and facebook to be in the know, and on Instagram for pretty pictures.

FYI: CMH is running a 

Horse-Power Twitterature Contest!

A final note ...

If you have young children be sure to visit the Canadian Museum of History's Children's Museum. It's a wonderful interactive experience that never disappoints. 

Yep, just me Cathy thinking out loud about all the golden opportunities to incorporate gold and horse puns into this post. I know it's hard to bridle your excitement having hit the mother lode of funny puns with me. But sadly it is time for me to stop horsing around. 

Note: I was an invited guest of the Canadian Museum of History for a media tour of these two exhibits, but received no compensation for this post. All opinions are my own. 

Three Things to Add to Your #Clearwater Itinerary #Florida #travel @VSPC

I discovered three new things to do when visiting Clearwater. I can't believe after visiting Clearwater so many times this was the first time visiting all of these! 

I have been to the Clearwater/St Pete area at least 25 times, including a trip this past March. I'm shocked that in all that time I have never been to: 

• the Clearwater Marine Aquarium
• the Dali Museum
• Frenchy's Rockaway Grill

Three very different experiences perfect for all ages. I suggest combining a visit to the Aquarium with Frenchy's for lunch since they are located quite near to each other. 

Clearwater Marine Aquarium:
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a hospital for injured marine life, but their goal is more than that. At the Clearwater Marine Aquarium they also strive to educate and encourage preservation and conservation of marine life and their habitats. FYI Parents: Their programs include kids educational activities and camps.

Interesting Fact: You may not realize that the movie Dolphin Tale is based on a true story, and that Winter was sent to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium in the hopes of saving her life and rehabilitating her. Winter and her closest friend Hope, also a rescued dolphin live permanently at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. As part of the cost of admission to the Aquarium you can take a trolley or boat ride over to a secondary location where you can enjoy Winter's Dolphin Tale Adventure. You will find loads of information about Winter, her prosthetic tail, and props from the Dolphin Tale movie sets. 

Image courtesy of Clearwater Marine Museum

Image courtesy of Clearwater Marine Museum

Frenchy's Rockaway Grill:

Reasons to go to Frenchy's Rockaway Grill: 1) Fun lively atmosphere, 2) location location location, it's right on the beach with a fantastic view, 3) great food and service. The view of Clearwater Beach makes it the perfect destination for lunch, but the delicious food and great service is why I'll be returning many many times in the future to Frenchy's.

Interesting Fact: Frenchy's has their own seafood company making daily deliveries to each of the Frenchy's locations, so you're guaranteed the seafood is always fresh. So fresh that they're known for their grouper dishes, and I can personally attest to the fact the Grouper sandwich is indeed delicious! I highly recommend it! My Mom enjoyed the She Crab Soup and her Shrimp Scampi which came with a very tasty Coleslaw (I may have stolen a bite or two). For those who like a non seafood option my Dad and Thing 1 both very much enjoyed their Burger and Chili-Dog served with chips. We all left totally satisfied with out meals and the experience, and I think that is key; it felt like an experience rather than just a meal. As I was leaving I caught a glimpse of the Seafood Ceviche which looked delicious, and it will definitely be the first thing I order on my next visit!

FYI: Frenchy's has several locations.

The Dali Museum and the Dali and Disney Exhibit:

I wasn't really sure what to expect, but The Dali Museum is well worth the visit. I was pleasantly surprised and how much I enjoyed it. Besides the permanent collection which includes an amazing collection of Dali's work in a unique building that is an art piece in itself, there is a magical garden, a children's education center, a cafe and a wonderful gift shop. Gallery public tours and audio guides are free with admission.

I had the pleasure of seeing the Dali and Disney: Architects if Imagination Exhibit. It was interesting to see how their lives overlapped, and how they influenced each other's work. Interesting Fact: Both Dali and Disney were on the cover of Time Magazine. 
FYI Parents: The Dali has an interactive education center for the children visiting the museum. 

I can think of nothing but positive things to say about the Dali Museum; the staff is friendly and knowledgeable, it's very well run and organized, and I'll definitely be recommending "The Dali" to my friends and family.

Well that's my take on three great options to add to your To Do list on your next visit to the Clearwater-St Pete Area. Looking for a few more ideas? Check out my post on things to do in the Clearwater-St Pete area and be sure to take a look at the Visit St Pete Clearwater website for all sorts of information on events, links and ideas for your next trip to the St Pete-Clearwater area.

Yep, just me Cathy thinking out loud about 3 new things I tried on my visit to Clearwater - St Pete Florida this spring.

Note: I received admission to the Clearwater Aquarium, The Dali Museum and a meal at Frenchy's Rockaway Grill for the purpose of this post. All opinions and recommendations are my own and reflect my personal experience. 

Tips and Ways to Save at a #ThemePark #Florida #Travel #FamilyTravel

Taking the Family to a Theme Park is Expensive, 

So Here's Some Tips to Save and Stretch Your Dollars.

• Theme Park Tickets: Check your loyalty cards and points, and check on-line for coupons and upgrades for the parks you want to visit. Many loyalty points can be used to purchase or reduce the cost of theme park tickets. CAA/AAA offers discounts on many attractions and theme parks. Park websites and tourism boards like Visit Orlando often have coupons, discounts and are great resources for theme park savings and information. Additional savings can often be found through hotel and theme park tickets packages.
• If the hotel or resort offers free shuttle services to the parks you can save on the parking fee by using this option.
• Make sure to make full use of Fast Passes or any extended park privileges you're entitled to.
• Use a single backpack to pack for the day at the theme park. One bag is easier to manage when going on rides, attractions, and to take turns carrying it. 

• Some theme park guest services have kids emergency information tags, but a much faster way is to use free airline luggage tags completed with emergency contact and resort information as wrist bands or attached to belt loops. 

• Save by purchasing dollar store rain ponchos for everyone in the family. You can often get them with the kids favourite characters on them as well. At the theme parks a cheap rain poncho will cost you $5 or more per poncho. Besides the regular afternoon showers in Florida, rain ponchos are great to keep dry or protect your backpack at sea animal shows or rides with splashing water.
• Buying beverages for a family at $4 a bottle really adds up quickly. Save by bringing Reusable Water Bottles or buying your first beverages with a screw top lids and refilling them throughout the day from a fountain rather than purchasing drinks. Pack single serve flavour crystals if plain water isn't your thing. Plus bonus less garbage and recycling. 
• At Universal Parks you can purchase a full day meal plan which is good value, and CAA/AAA members can get a 10% discount on other food and beverage purchases.
• Consider a Character Meal at Disney, the cost isn't much higher than other meal options at the park, but the experience is worth the extra expense. Be sure to book this in advance.
• Speaking from experience finding a bandage at a theme park can be more challenging than you think. Do yourself a favour and pack a small First-Aid/Emergency Kit: including: hair elastic (it has many uses), shoe laces (can also be used as a belt), sewing kit, eyeglass repair kit (tiny screwdriver comes in handy), safety pin, ziptie, twist tie, bag clip, tweezers, wipes and first-aid items (bandages, Gravol, Tylenol, etc) 
• Pack a few small ziploc bags to protect cell phone and wallet on water rides. 
• Disney has free wi-fi which makes standing in long lines for rides or attractions so much easier. To keep your device charge for a long day at the theme park be sure to pack a portable battery charger. 
• You can save on Disney Items buy purchasing pins, t-shirts, autograph books and pens at a dollar store or stores like Walmart or Target, and limit your on-site park splurges to a few really special memory making items. 
• Many places offer a CAA/AAA discount. At Universal Parks you can get a 10% discount on merchandise by showing your membership card. 
• For a feel of Disney without the expense visit Downtown Disney and spend the afternoon having a great meal, shopping and visiting the Lego store (and get a free LEGO VIP card). 

Happy Travels and Enjoy Your Day at the Theme Park!

Yep, just me Cathy thinking out loud about a day at the theme park.