My goal is to feel healthy.

In the fall of 2012 I did drop some weight, and then it all came back on and then some, just like the average person who deals with this goes through.

I've created an internal rule that Sunday is off-limits unless I put it on the schedule myself. That's family time.

When we go to Congress, there are strict rules about what I can be involved with and what I can't be involved with when it comes to business relationships and business operations.

It's not the voting that's democracy; it's the counting.

The federal government's role is to establish a process whereby industry can pitch a project, and Canadians can be reassured that this project is worth the risk. That's at the heart of governments granting permits and communities granting permission. People understand we do need economic growth. We do need natural resource projects.

The good news, to relieve all this gloom, is that a democracy is inherently self-correcting. Here, the people are sovereign. Inept political leaders can be replaced. Foolish policies can be changed. Disastrous mistakes can be reversed.

Social etiquette dictates that when in mixed company, one should avoid discussing politics and religion. As someone who is quite active on various social portals, I can attest to the visceral emotions that are triggered when these topics are broached!