The Manuscript of My Life
Reaper Photos
{ 08:26, 2008-Nov-16 }
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I took these photos ages ago and just remembered I had them and had not yet posted them. These are from the day they were filming "Reaper" right beside our apartment. There is a beautiful church on the corner that is often used in movies and TV shows as Vancouver has actually been dubbed "Hollywood North". They do a lot of film making here. Anyhoodle - we did manage to make it over and take a few pictures before they wrapped up the outside filming and took it inside the church. If you have never seen this TV series you should check it out. The season hasn't started yet, but it is super funny and I just love it. Here are the pictures I managed to take. The quality isn't that great - but that's the camera....or I like to think it is anyway!
Friggin Amazing
{ 10:06, 2008-Nov-5 }
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My sister sent me this link in an e-mail this morning. This kid is fabulous. I totally got shivers when I listened. I love good music and this young'n has some major talent going on. Have a listen....
The Deck
{ 05:42, 2008-Nov-3 }
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I finally got my pictures downloaded and made a collage showing my new deck. I am kind of late getting this done but better late than never. I can hardly wait until spring when I can fill it with plants and cozy furniture. I tried to give the impression of how big the deck is. Hopefully it will come across.
This is all I have to add for now as I need to go and eat my dinner. I am starving. Maybe an update tomorrow.
Peace out!
Seven Bits of Info:Tagged!
{ 05:12, 2008-Oct-19 }
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I have been tagged by Jana (Indigomoonarts) to reveal 7 things about myself that no one knows. Since I babble on and on around here it is going to be hard to find things that people don’t know, but I will give it a shot.
1. I threw up in Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark after being awake for 24 hours, touring the Carlsberg brewery, drinking copious quantities of free beer and then riding the bumper cars.
2. I have disco danced until dawn in the tiny village of Leysin, Switzerland, after a great night of cheese fondue and white wine. I stayed at Club Vagabond in May 1976 and I just discovered much to my surprise it is still there, and looks exactly the same. That makes me happy! It was such a fun place to stay.
3. I spilled coffee on Tommy Banks, during intermission while he was at the University of Calgary playing a jazz concert. He was actually very nice about it and I was horribly embarrassed (one of the few times I have been at a loss for words). Hopefully he has forgotten, but I never have.
4. I flew across the country (from BC to DC) to meet up with a man I had only "met" on the internet and we had the best weekend ever. We have talked almost every day for 10 years.
5. I accidentally disconnected a telephone call from Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau to his private secretary in 1975 during Greycup weekend in Calgary. He was trying to make arrangements to come and stay at the hotel where I was working. The secretary was less than impressed with me. (As a side note it was -25 F that day and colder than a witch's tit!) Not a great day to be playing football outside.
6. I have never had a speeding ticket or been in a car accident (touch wood).
7. I can play 19 musical instruments. (Piano, recorder, flute, clarinet, bass clarinet, oboe, bassoon, alto sax, tenor sax, trumpet, trombone, tuba, guitar, ukulele, violin, cell, string bass, drums).
Money Waster!
{ 11:06, 2008-Oct-15 }
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Well, the Canadian election was a total waste of $350,000, 000 and time! The results were not that different than they were 3 years ago when some people elected Stephen (AKA Steve by George W) Harper in. He still has a minority government so nothing will get done. He did gain a few seats and the Liberals lost a huge chunk due to the less than charismatic leader of the party. But long and short of it all, it cost a lot of money and nothing changed. That's what happens when you call an election early. So much for your big plan to have a majority government. It still burns me that the Bloc has 50 seats and only 8% of the vote while the Green Party has 2% of the vote and NO seats. What's wrong with this picture??? Things need to change. At any rate - today is the same as it was yesterday, so we will continue on with Steve telling us he has a "plan". Sure - whatever.
On a completely different note there was major action outside our apartment last night. I have absolutely NO idea what was going on, but around 8 pm we could hear a lot of police cars around our neighborhood, which is abnormal. So, I decided to check things out. I went out on the deck and looking down spotted 4 police cars, and numerous police. Shouting and shining of flashlights ensued at the building across the street. Soon more cars came, a total of 8 in all blocking off all entrances and exits to the street, alley etc. The canine unit was dispatched as well. Looking down at one point there were approximately 25 cops congregated at the front of the building. After about 90 minutes or so, they all left. I am none the wiser this morning. I am going to have to make the rounds this afternoon and see if I can find out the scuttlebutt. I hate being out of the loop!
I got a call from the college yesterday and it seems they need another part-time instructor in the new year, so I have been booked in from Jan 5 to March 20. Yeah!!! I will make some decent cash and still be able to do my transcription in the morning before I go in. Maybe....we'll get to California in April or May! Would be nice.
Get out there and vote!
{ 07:22, 2008-Oct-14 }
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Friday was an absolutely gorgeous day here, warm, sunny and just a little crispness in the air. While Donna was going through her morning routine, Laura and I took a walk along the railroad tracks to my favourite health food store, cameras in hand. I got a lot of really good photos that day. Here is one that I snapped of a beautiful sunflower. This was a pretty small one compared to some of them. There were a couple that were about 2-3 hand spans across!
Thanksgiving weekend was pretty quiet. Neil came over on Sunday and spent the day, which was nice. We don't see him as much as we would like to. The highlight of the evening was his impersonation of Axl Rose, which had me rolling on the floor. Pretty funny indeed. It was a nice day all in all and nothing is better than spending time with my kids.
Today is election day so all you Canadians - get out there and vote today!
I have a busy work week coming up, which I suppose I had better get started on now!
It's Thanksgiving
{ 10:17, 2008-Oct-12 }
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This weekend is Canadian Thanksgiving. I don't even think I have any other Canadian pals here on EFX2. Where have they all gone?? There used to be a few of us. Anyway - I am wishing myself Happy Thanksgiving and if there are any more of us out there - enjoy your weekend and don't indulge in too much turkey.
I took this photo the other day on my walk about and thought it looked very thanksgivingy...
Check out my photo blog.
{ 07:17, 2008-Oct-11 }
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A quick post as I am in the middle of watching Calgary versus Vancouver and have to pay attention. I have posted a new picture over here - go check it out.
http://kinnigurl.blogspot.com/
Tuesday - Come Quicker!
{ 08:44, 2008-Oct-8 }
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Election madness!! I am going crazy! We have our own election up here on Tuesday, when our madness will finally be over. I am not sure how much more of this pre-election crap I can stand. The Conservatives are losing ground I believe, which serves them right for calling this bloody election in the first place. The Liberals have an intelligent, committed leader - but "'e duz not speeek Eeengleesh!" NDP leader Jack Layton is like a little bulldog and is a fabulous leader of the opposition party and will stall Harper on everything in the good old HoC. (House of Commons for you non Canadian types). Elizabeth May is a worthy adversary as well for opposition, however The Green Party doesn't have any seats, so I am not sure how much of an impact she will make. It will all be over but the crying on Tuesday night. Thank God!
The American election is painful as well. How much longer do we have to listen to this?? Let's just get out there and vote and move on! Kill me now! And if I hear McCain say "my friends" one more time I will shoot myself.
Sunday night we went to a good ol' hockey game! Whooooo! Hockey is back! It was a great game between the Ducks and Canucks. Evenly matched, lots of fighting...wahoo....and tied at the end of the third. Ducks pulled out a win 22 seconds into the overtime, which was awesome! Afterwards we went down to the player area, you know how we do, and chatted with Scott's agent, and Rob's father-in-law waiting for the boys to come out of the dressing room. Scott was taking FOREVER! His agent was joking that he is getting old and probably had to get iced up. I rolled my eyes! LOL....Anyway as he emerged he handed Donna a stick from her FAVORITE Canuck - Taylor Pyatt #9!!! She was ecstatic! The reason he was so long - he was in the Canuck dressing room getting Donna said stick. AWESOME!! (Many years ago he did the same thing for Neil and got him a signed game puck from Mario Lemeiux). It was pretty cool. It was great to see people we only see in hockey season and we are looking forward to their next game back here on Dec 22. Oh - and grampa Barney showed us pictures of Rob and Jess's new baby girl too - she is ADORABLE!
The deck is SO close to being completed. They should be able to wrap it up today I'm thinking. I am tired of having people wandering around outside all day long. It's hard to concentrate on my work with sawing and power nailing going on! Anyway - pictures to come shortly!
I'm off like a new bride's panties to get some work done. Peace out.....
Politics is No Place For Grownups
{ 08:30, 2008-Oct-3 }
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This clip was on the Mercer Report Tuesday night and Donna and I about peed ourselves laughing! This pretty much sums up Canadian politics and after watching our debate last night I'm going with the guy who can lift rocks! Clearly he will be a great opposition leader to whomever gets in as PM.
Good news!
{ 02:28, 2008-Oct-1 }
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We didn't get to see as much of the filming of Reaper as we wanted to, but we still did get to see one scene. I have some pictures, which I will post as soon as I download them. Unfortunately I didn't get to see the "devil", but we did get to see Sam's scene being filmed, which was coolish.
I just got a phone call from the college and I have been booked for two huge blocks of time from Dec 15 to February 20. Basically, I will be teaching two entire chunks of the course all on my own, so won't just be sitting around doing nothing. This is such awesome news! I am really excited! I also have 4 half days booked in October and November, with the promise of more to come. This is just so perfect and couldn't have come at a better time. I am extremely broke at the moment, my rent has just been raised, so the extra income will be perfect!
The deck is coming along, and is almost finished! The flooring is all laid and the railing half done. At least now I can put my furniture back under the covered area. Pictures will follow.
Just had to share my good news!
Peace out!
Good news!
{ 02:28, 2008-Oct-1 }
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We didn't get to see as much of the filming of Reaper as we wanted to, but we still did get to see one scene. I have some pictures, which I will post as soon as I download them. Unfortunately I didn't get to see the "devil", but we did get to see Sam's scene being filmed, which was coolish.
I just got a phone call from the college and I have been booked for two huge blocks of time from Dec 15 to February 20. Basically, I will be teaching two entire chunks of the course all on my own, so won't just be sitting around doing nothing. This is such awesome news! I am really excited! I also have 4 half days booked in October and November, with the promise of more to come. This is just so perfect and couldn't have come at a better time. I am extremely broke at the moment, my rent has just been raised, so the extra income will be perfect!
The deck is coming along, and is almost finished! The flooring is all laid and the railing half done. At least now I can put my furniture back under the covered area. Pictures will follow.
Just had to share my good news!
Peace out!
Reaper!
{ 08:40, 2008-Sep-28 }
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It's a beautiful, beautiful day here in southwestern Canada. The sun is shining, birds are singing and my deck is getting closer to completion. I unpacked and put away 18 boxes of crap on Friday with Brenna's help and now have all Donna's medical supplies organized, and believe me there are enough to fit in a semi-trailer truck. Her summer clothes are put away and her winter ones all nicely settled in the new dressers I built as well. Everything is as it should be. I can again walk around my room without tripping on things and I even have a new mattress on my bed, so I slept decently last night! Wow!
More good news as well! On Monday, they are filming an episode of one of my favorite TV shows next door at the church - "Reaper". YEAH!!! (If you have never seen it - you should check it out. It's very funny. I love when they film so close and I can get down there and talk to the film folks. AND maybe I'll catch a glimpse of the devil - although they are filming at the church, so maybe he won't be in that scene. However, I'm pretty sure my favorite character SOCK will be there. It will be fun to go and check it out. I'll take some pictures if I can get close enough. The catering truck is usually set up in our alley - leastwise it was when the filmed the remake of "Carrie" and "John Doe" with heart throb Dominic Purcell...whoa baby he's HOT! They do a lot of filming around here, but it's nice when they set up close by and I can check things out.
On that note, I am going to go and make my Sunday phone call to my mommy and then try to get some work done before I go outside and enjoy the beautiful day.
Peace out!
Just Call Me Teach
{ 07:22, 2008-Sep-23 }
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The flu has hit Vancouver Community College, which is bad for my friend Loney, but good for me! How so you ask? Well, I got two days of substitute teaching this week so I get to make some easy money! I have also been booked so far for 6 days in November, which is good as well. I loved my time at the college last year, and I am looking forward to more days there this year as well. I hope Loney feels better soon, but it's good news for me!
The deck is getting nearer completion but I can't see it being done for at least another week. I hope it gets done soon, as I need to get my furniture under the covered area. The rain will be starting here soon. Temperatures have dropped and the skies are starting to turn cloudy. Fall is definitely in the air.
I'm off to watch America's Next Top Model. I know it's crap TV, but we are addicted. What can I say?
Organized confusion
{ 11:45, 2008-Sep-21 }
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Good lord! My apartment is in more of a mess than it was before! That's what happens when you start organizing things! Hopefully soon there will be an end to the mess. I now have boxes in my kitchen, bathroom and bedroom and it's like an obstacle course walking through it all!
AND - I am exhausted from moving and building furniture all weekend and I still have a couple of days to go before I am completely finished. For now, I am going to bed, and I am sure will be asleep in seconds.
I really wish I had someone to help me! It's very difficult doing all this lifting and moving all on your own.
Most Alien Place on Earth
{ 10:13, 2008-Sep-20 }
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Hey peeps! A quick update while I take a break from typing doctor speak!
This week has been super productive for me, so I MUST be feeling better. My visit to the doctor indicated that my TSH is indeed returning to more normal levels. YEAH! I am going to continue on the meds for another two months and then have another recheck just to see how things are going. Yoga and change in diet are definitely a factor as well, as I have lost many inches as well. YEAH AGAIN!
Yesterday I went to Costco to pick up my card and get my photo taken. God that place is so ginormous! I didn't buy anything but wandered around checking things out for my next shopping trip. Neil, Brenna and I are going on a "family" shopping day to buy in bulk and then divide them by 3. Sounds like a plan.
Then, I took a trip to Ikea to buy Donna two new dressers for her room so I can get her shiznit organized. That girl has so many clothes, nicnaks and medical supplies that somebody needs to organize her ass. That person - is me. Hopefully by next week there will be some order to her chaos and I can get everything OUT of my room that is supposed to go in hers! That will be triumphant.
Neil and Brenna were both over yesterday and were both full of interesting information. Neil showed us this super cool island, which is located off the coast of Africa that is older than Methusela and labeled "The Most Alien Place on Earth". It is super cool and a definite MUST see. Check it here:
http://www.darkroastedblend.com/2008...earth.html
On that note I am off to complete my day's work. Peace out!
You can find me here.....
{ 06:29, 2008-Sep-15 }
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I am not sure what is up with efx2 but I don't trust that all my posts won't be lost forever so for now I am setting up my house at Vox. So you can find me over there. Come give me a holler if you haven't already found me there.
http://kinnigurl.vox.com/
Mini Vacay...
{ 10:47, 2008-Sep-3 }
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I need to update. I am not sure when life became so busy, and I have no more time for blogging, because it really seems like nothing has changed in my life. However, I do spend far less time here than I used to.
At any rate. Donna is going in for her surgery on Sept 8 for her feeding tube. It is a small procedure so I am pretty confident all should go well. However, because she has been undernourished for so long she will have to stay in the hospital for a full week, to make sure her body tolerates the feeds, I know how to work the pump, and the staff is confident we can do everything at home. Not really excited about the week's stay, but there isn't much that can be done about that. Also, the ward she will be staying in at the hospital, is not equipped to handle a ventilated patient so if Donna wants to have this procedure done, then I have to sign a waiver, and be her 24-hour care during her stay. Now most certainly I don't mind doing that, because I know she feels much more confident knowing I will be there to care for her, but why aren't nurses trained in the simple art of suctioning??? It's really not all that complicated. However, I shall not bitch and I am looking at this hospital stay as a mini vacation. I wish the accommodations were a bit more luxurious than hospital drab, but I will do anything to make Donna more comfortable!
I have to take a week off work, so we decided to make our time enjoyable and ordered Season 1 and 2 of Wires to watch on DVD, bought some yarn to knit a sweater and Donna is going to do a cross-stitch. I am hoping to get home for a shower every day as the caregiver can stay with D for a couple of hours. So, although the accommodations aren't 5-star, they are free, I don't have to cook, clean or work, and I should get some nap time in the afternoon, barring visitors.
On that note, I am off to complete my day's work and hopefully get in an hour of yoga as well. I have been popping around to read everyone's blogs, but often I do not have time to comment.
Peace out!
I will be sure to update after it's all over with the outcome of the surgery etc.
I Spoke Too Soon
{ 12:32, 2008-Aug-15 }
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I notice by my last entry that I stated I was starting to feel better and my medications were kicking in. Well - I spoke too soon. Maybe they worked temporarily, but basically the last 10 days or so, I feel back to square 1. I am so tired and need to sleep a couple of times a day. I can't stay awake no matter what is going on around me. I have nodded off at my desk more than a few times and upon deciding that it is time to get up and get to work around 8 or so, I do not feel rested in the least. I am still walking and doing yoga, and trying to get back some of my physical conditioning, but it is a constant struggle. I will be going back to see my doctor this next week and see about getting my dosage upped as it apparently is not working at this level.
Aside from that, Donna and I have been trying to keep busy. We have had friends here and there for visits, which is always great. We have gone to the beach a few times to beat the heat of our apartment. Yesterday we have a great time down at Jericho Beach! There is so much to see there and lots of exploring to do. I didn't realize the park there was so vast! We walked forever and still didn't see even half of it. I will post some pictures as soon as I get them downloaded from my camera.
We have also taken part in a focus group with regards to the organization that provides all the equipment for Donna's respiratory problems. It was quite informative and we threw a lot of good ideas around. Donna was happy to meet the moderator Roger, who has just bought and renovated a house in Costa Rica, which is totally wheelchair accessible. He rents it out with all the amenities including wheelchair van transportation and an accessible catamaran. Of course she is all set to head out! Maybe one day we will be able to make the trek!
My deck, which was started 3 weeks ago, is still now complete! The old deck is completely gone and they retarred the roof, but now it has been left like that for 10 days! I can't even now step out on the roof to sit as the tar is bubbling and broiling away in the heat. The smell is horrible and I just wish they would get back here and cover up the tar and get the boards on for the deck. By the time they finish, summer is going to be completely over. I mean we only really have 3 weeks left! If the speed they have done the first half is any indication, we may have a deck by Thanksgiving.
All in all things are going well. If I could start feeling better, life would be really great! I guess I just have to be patient. I know it's hard to find the correct dosage for meds but sooner would be better than later!
Peace out
PS - I have not checked for typos or other errors, so if you see any - keep them to yourself! :-)
Slowly getting back to normal...
{ 02:38, 2008-Jul-23 }
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I am slowly starting to feel better day by day, although I do still get tired if I do too much. My brain fog is clearing a little bit at a time, and I can hold a thought for more than 60 seconds now! LOL...Naps have been reduced to one about every 3 days instead of 4 per day, so that is a definite improvement! Hashimoto's is not going to get the best of me!
I have been walking a lot this last 10 days logging in about 25 miles or so. It feels good to have the energy to make it past the end of the street for sure! The first few days Donna drug me behind her wheelchair, with me clinging on for dear life - but I have managed now to let go and I can walk up the BIG hill on my own.
After 6 years of constant bitching, the management of my building finally started work on my deck. Had they done something 6 years ago, they would have just had to paint - however now, after the deck has been left virtually exposed to all elements it now has to be completely torn out and rebuilt! Fine by me! Now I get a brand new beautiful deck! Franco and Lynn (the builders) assure me that the deck will be so wonderful I will spend more time outside than in. Not hard - as that is almost the case now! Anyway - when it is complete I will post pictures so you can all enjoy it!
Donna and I went to see the gastroenterologist yesterday. She has been losing weight over the past 3-4 years and it is starting to become a serious issue. It is so difficult for her to eat, as raising her arms up to her mouth is a chore, chewing is getting harder and eating just isn't joyful for her. She decided she wanted to get a feeding tube in order to supplement her diet, up her calorie intake, and see if she can get up to 90 pounds again. Right now I would say she is hovering around 65 or so and being 5' 9" means she is damn skinny! At any rate, the appointment went well and it looks as though we are going to go ahead, hopefully come September. it is going to be a load off her mind for sure, and I can tell she felt relief when she left the appointment. This will be one more thing for me to learn about and make sure all is running well, but I am sure I am up for the challenge.
All in all, things are going well. I'm glad efx is up and running, but I still plan to double post at blogspot as well.
Double post
{ 10:36, 2008-Jul-21 }
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I posted here - http://kinnigurl.blogspot.com/ with my weekend update. I'm too lazy to cut and paste it over here! I'll probably be double posting just in case this places goes FUBAR again.
Happy Birthday Canada!
{ 01:44, 2008-Jun-30 }
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I am posting this today, in case I don't get a minute to do it tomorrow. Lately, I never know what is going on around my house. There are people coming and going with great regularity and I must always be on my toes!
At any rate - tomorrow is "Canada Day". I have no idea what the day holds in store for us, but we will be celebrating in some manner!
I took this photo a couple of years ago, after spending a great day downtown celebrating with my fellow Canadians. I thought it was a great picture to take at the end of a perfect day!
Peace out!
Morning Light
{ 02:06, 2008-Jun-28 }
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Another photo post as I don't have much to write about. Tomorrow we are going to the Roundhouse downtown for an afternoon of free jazz, so hopefully there will be some narrative and accompanying pictures.
This building is very near the college where I teach occasionally. The light in the morning is always fantastic. I took my camera to school one morning and snapped the picture through the window. I would have liked to get a little closer, but this will have to do until I get downtown again. It is a beautiful old building and I have no idea what type of building it is. I think people must live in the upper levels as the blinds seems to move up and down periodically. I can imagine big rooms, with high ceilings, old fixtures and hardwood floors.
Garden Delight
{ 10:35, 2008-Jun-26 }
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Can't think of anything much to say today, so I am just going to post a picture I took on my walk this morning.
Holy Jazz Batman!!!
{ 10:38, 2008-Jun-24 }
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Wow! Dave Brubeck is THE MAN! I waited 50 years to see him in concert and I can tell you it was worth every minute of waiting! Totally amazing and the man is 87 years old. The poor guy could barely walk onto the stage and when he talked he sounded like he was speaking his last words. However, when he sat down at the piano, he was 20 years old again. The music flowed from his body and you could just see he was having the time of his life. He was smiling and happy and just glad to be there. The entire quartet was fabulous! The sax player was no Paul Desmond, BUT, he could beat down the ass of Bleedin Gums Murphy any day! (Simpson's humor people!). One of the slower songs they played, which he had written in 1944 when he was serving with General Patton had the tears sliding down my cheeks it was so absolutely beautiful. I could feel it coursing through every cell in my body. Unbelievable!
The trio that opened for him was the Laila Biali Trio. She is from North Vancouver and let me tell you a force to be reckoned with! A real, true performer with a totally amazing style. Her renditions of "Nature Boy" and "Woodstock" were unique and beautiful. I will definitely be on the lookout for her trio again. I'm sure I will be able to catch them on CBC Radio.
Before the concert, Anne and I headed downtown for drinks and appies. We hit the Granville House so we could watch all the action on Granville Street. The martinis were excellent and the bruschetta to die for!
All in all a perfectly wonderful day!
For the next two weeks the Jazz Festival will be carrying on throughout the city and I am going to hit up any and all free concerts I can find - work be damned! There is just way too much good music going on to pass it up.
Talented EFXers
{ 07:30, 2008-Jun-23 }
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Check this site out my fellow EFXers! We have a pretty talented group of people here in our little group. Thanks to ChicaX (aka Kelly) she has started up a group over on Flickr. We are given a photo each week and asked to edit with no restrictions. It is super fun and it is really great to see all the different ideas people have. Come on over and have a boo!
http://www.flickr.com/groups/745724@...45724@N25/
Today I have some company coming over from the island, which I am pretty excited about, because this time it is actually a friend of mine and not Donna's! LOL...We are going out for dinner tonight and then going to see the Dave Brubeck concert! For anybody who is a jazz buff - this is the ultimate! I have dreamt of seeing Dave since I was 4 years old! Funny kind of fantasy for a normal 4-year-old, but I grew up in a house filled with jazz. I listened to Dave and grooved along to his music along with Benny Goodman, Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonius Monk, Jerry Mulligan...well you name it I heard it. Anyway - tonight will be super and I can hardly wait. I'll write it up in a day or so.
A little Brubeck for you:
Meantime - check out the photos!
Baby Beluuuuuugaaaaaa....
{ 07:23, 2008-Jun-12 }
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An absolutely adorable baby beluga was born at the Vancouver Aquarium yesterday, which is totally amazing! I love those belugas! That in itself is exciting, but an online news service "Nowpublic.com" contacted me this morning and wanted to use one of my photos in conjunction with the news story. How exciting is that!!?? Follow the link below and check out the live birth photos and video and you can see my photo there as well.
http://www.nowpublic.com/node/116689...otage/list
Goodbye Trevor....
{ 01:52, 2008-Jun-11 }
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We have been lucky enough to meet Trevor a few times and he is truly a class act, a nice man, and Vancouver's favorite son! We'll miss you Trevor!
June? Feels more like November!
{ 02:03, 2008-Jun-10 }
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I am not quite over the Pens loss of The Cup as yet, but each day it gets a little easier. All you non-sports fans out there will shake your head and think I'm nuts, but we are grieving and hopefully by the time September rolls around we will be over it! LOL....
Ok - now for some good old bitching. Our weather is the SHITS!!! I seriously could see my breath this morning when I went outside. It was only 7 degrees Celsius which translates to about 54 F I think. That is DAMN cold for June. In fact, I looked up the temperature for Nov 9 and it was 12 degrees. Go figure! Besides the cold, the sky is grey, it is raining and UGH I just can't stand it any more. I need some Vitamin D and sunshine before I lose my mind! I had packed away all my winter sweaters etc., but I had to go and dig them out again AND I actually turned on the heat yesterday afternoon. Shoot me now!
Gas prices are going through the freaking roof!!! Fortunately I don't have to drive too much as I live in a neighborhood that has everything I need within walking distance, and working at home does definitely help. However, the price of gas is $1.46 a litre, which translates to $5.68 per US gallon! Who in the hell can afford that????? And the price is still supposed to go up more before the end of the summer. Not only is the price of gas higher, but I just bought groceries and the price of everything has gone up, up, up in the last month or so. Has my income gone up over the past 5 years?? No - in fact it has not. We have already trimmed the fat from our living expenses, and are down to basics, so I am not sure what else we can cut out. I work 7 days a week now and have taken only 2 days off since the beginning of February! Crap!! I need to win the lotto.....Hmmm...although I never have the loonie to buy a ticket! Catch 22?
Anyway - enough bitching. I am around, just haven't had too much time for writing.
Peace out homes.........
Happy Birthday Neil!
{ 07:48, 2008-May-30 }
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Today my baby turns 25! WOW - I can hardly believe how quickly the time has gone by. It seems like just a short while ago I was holding a squiggling, gurgling, baby. Last night as Neil was leaving, he gave me a hug and he now towers over me in every sense of the word. It's funny how the roles reverse over the years. Now he feels as though he should take care of me. Odd isn't it?
Happy Birthday Neil. You have grown into a confident, intelligent and handsome young man! Congratulations and enjoy your day!
The hockey tradition started very early in our house. Neil would put on his ref pyjamas and help the refs out during Hockey Night in Canada! He certainly could blow that whistle loud!
Here Neil is hoisting the cup after Scott and Rob's victory party last summer. This summer, we hope the cup makes it to Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia! Neil feels every single play, move, victory and defeat for ya Sid!
Take the fall. Act hurt. Get indignant!
{ 11:44, 2008-May-26 }
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Ah......the pain. The Pens are down by 2. I am sure there are only a couple of people that will have any idea what I am talking about, but THEIR team is killing me! Well - not just me, but the Pens and Pens fans everywhere. Damn those talented Wings! Malkin, Malkin, Malkin....I mean why don't you just sit the next game out. It would be better than giving the puck away 500 times per game! And stay out of the freaking penalty box! Donna and I felt like all the air had been sucked from our bodies. I mean - two games with no goals??? What is that? Gloat while you can Wings fans, the Pens will come back once they get to Pittsburgh. (According to Grapes!) Let us hope the Pens have a come back!
For now - I feel deflated and I need sleep. Too much tension makes my teeth ache. We take our hockey VERY seriously in this house!
I know for a fact that Jana and Peter are just LOVING this!!!
Jana - thanks so much for the lovely card. I appreciate it! Love ya!
Peace out!
Two days off in a row!
{ 07:16, 2008-May-25 }
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It has been a busy week and I am now officially another year older and wiser! Friday was my birthday. I didn't do anything too spectacular to celebrate but it was a nice day nonetheless. The class I had been substituting for at the college was having their private graduation ceremony Friday and I was honoured to be invited to join them. They received their documentation saying they had officially finished the course and then we all went out for lunch. It was great to get to socialize with them away from school and we had a very nice afternoon. The rest of the day I spent doing nothing. That's right - nothing. I didn't go to my computer at all and it felt great! Donna and I watched A Love Song for Bobby Long - which is fantastic! Do see it if you haven't yet.
Thursday, I had also taken a day off. An inpromptu one. I actually hadn't planned on not working, but as it turned out I had a really great day. I went shopping! I NEVER shop for myself. Money is always too tight and I never seem to have time. However, my wonderful mother had sent me a wee monetary gift, so I decided to spend it on myself. Actually this is the first time I have done that - the money usually gets spent on groceries or the phone bill or something like that. However not this time. I went to the mall and I actually bought myself some clothes. A new dress, skirt, top, sweater and shoes. Nothing like a little retail therapy! I couldn't tell you the last time I bought clothes for myself. Anyway - it was fun, and by the time I got home, I was tired and just didn't feel like working.
Other than that - things are basically normal around here. I have been reading "The New Earth" by Eckhart Tolle and also "The Untethered Soul" by Michael Singer. Both are very good and I can see a gentle shift beginning to happen. I can't read too much at one time though, because I really get sick of thinking about myself! But there is always room for self improvement, so I am doing my best to get through both books and learning what the books have to offer.
I have some new pictures of our trip to the beach and one that Neil took of me in my new dress.
Donna and Laura - Crescent Beach
Donna - Chillin'
Crescent Beach - Both my kids were born very near here, so we used to spend a lot of time here when they were young.
I like this shot.
Ooopps - the picture of me won't load for some reason, so I will try to ad it next time I do an entry.
Peace out.
Perfect Saturday
{ 08:39, 2008-May-18 }
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The recipe in my opinion for a perfect day is a mix of sunshine, good friends and spontaneity. Yesterday had all of those things.
Our friend Laura is here visiting from Ottawa. She pops in and out regularly as her mom still lives on the island, so when she is on one of her mommy visits, she always stops a day or two here with us. She arrived here Friday night with some absolutely BEAUTIFUL flowers that have filled the apartment with the most wonderful fragrance from the lilies! I feel like I am in a tropical wonderland. Gorgeous. Friday we just chilled, talked, caught up etc.
Yesterday we awoke to beautiful, warm sunshine, our first really for spring. It seemed to go from 10 dgs to 28 in period of two days. But who's complaining!? Not me that's for sure! Donna got up early and the girls went down to our shopping area and visited Starbucks, Pier I and the book store while I finished up my work. I was going to be completely finished by the time they got back, but my neighbour had locked herself out of her apartment, so I spent most of my working time chatting and drinking coffee. Spontaneous interruption.....good fun. I worked around it.
When the girls came back they decided to chill on the deck in the sun for a while, as I finished my work. Laura realized she had forgotten a pair of her shoes out at her grandmother's house in White Rock, so I jumped at the chance for an excuse to drive out and get them. White Rock is south of where I live about 40 minutes or so, right on the beach and when the kids were small we spent a lot of time out there. They were both born there, and Donna hadn't been back there since. So - good timing as far as I could see.
We packed ourselves in the car and headed out on the freeway. It felt good to get out of the city and enjoy the farmland scenery along the freeway route. The van enjoyed being able to cruise at 100 km as well without being bumper to bumper in traffic. I even enjoyed the smell of the pig farm...well okay maybe enjoy isn't the right word. We stopped and picked up Laura’s shoes and then decided a trip to the beach was in order as the night was perfect. The breeze was warm, the sun shining, the smell of suntan lotion in the air. What could be better?! The smell of fish and chips was also in the air and as we were starving we decided to hit up one of the little food kiosks and grab some fresh halibut. Now that my friends is a little taste of heaven. If you have never had fresh halibut and chips at the beach then you are missing something sacred. We savored every bite and licked every bit of transfat from our fingers!
When our bellies were full, the rest of our senses needed filling as well, so we walked along the boardwalk, snapped some pictures and just felt everything melt away. It’s amazing how the ocean can mesmerize you and leave you with a clear mind. At least it does for me. That is my happy place most definitely. It started to get chilly and all the fresh air and food had left us tired, so we decided to head home.
We thanked Laura for forgetting her shoes as otherwise we probably wouldn’t have made the trek to the beach, but you can be assured that will not be our last trip. The price of gas won’t deter us from heading down there again! I will post a couple of pictures as soon as I get them downloaded off my camera.
Still lurking about...
{ 06:38, 2008-May-14 }
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You all knew I couldn't stay away forever. I like writing too much and visiting all my friends to not return.
I have had to do a lot of soul searching since I was here last. Nothing major happened in my life to prompt this, but I was just feeling unhappy with the way things were and needed to find a way to deal with that inner voice in my head. After much quiet reflection I have found a way to look at things differently, keep my positive attitude and just accept things for what they are. Of course I may slip from time to time, but for now, it is working for me, and I have found my happy place again.
As with most people, we are struggling to make ends meet. We have had to trim any excess things from our monthly budget and concentrate on the necessities. The price of gas is sky high here, and is supposed to be up to $6 per gallon by mid summer. Oh joy! I don't drive much as it is, so I can cope with that I suppose, however, the price of everything else has risen as well. We were going to try to make a jaunt to visit my family this summer, but that has been nixed so we are staying here for the summer and hoping to have some visitors to keep us from being bored out of our minds! LOL...
Donna and I are in the throes of watching playoff hockey. We love it! However our friends aren't quite as into it and can't understand why we won't pick up the phone during game time. We are adamant...so T U double F. The Pens are doing well so we are ecstatic. Looks like it may be the Pens and the Wings in the finals. Looking for a friendly bet Jana and Peter????
Neil is in Toronto at a competition this week with SIFE BCIT. Apparently their group has made it to the semi-finals and as I am writing this they are getting prepared for their second presentation, which they will be doing in about an hour. Hopefully they will make it to the finals! The competition is nation wide and encompasses all the colleges and universities in the country, so winning brings a lot of prestige to the school. Good luck BCIT.
So as not to bore I will end this post now. I am back, although probably won't be posting on a daily basis as work is my first priority these days...but I am here and back to fill you in on our life's comings and goings.
Peace Out!
Walk on the beach
{ 11:46, 2008-Apr-9 }
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I finally got to go for a walk down by the beach today. I have been needing to go there for about 10 days as I had some things I needed to work through. Basically though, I didn't think at all, I just walked, took deep breaths of the sea air and took some photos. It was extremely relaxing and I really, really needed to be there. It did me good and hopefully I will get back there again next week. I really need to get there more often. Anyway- here are a couple of the photos I took today.
The first is from the park and I just had to snap this as it caught my eye as I was walking by.
I found the shapes and colors here rather interesting.
The tide was out and it was very calm and quiet. Perfect for contemplation.
Just call me the "First Mama"
{ 01:10, 2008-Mar-31 }
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My boy has just been elected President of SIFE (Students In Free Enterprise). This is really a BIG deal. SIFE is an international organization that helps students around the world make a difference in their communities and teaches them to become responsible leaders in the business world. Ever since Neil enrolled last September he has been driven do to really well, and to become an integral part of SIFE. He was part of the presentation team that went to Calgary a few weeks ago and won second place in the Western Division. In May, they go to Toronto and compete in a much bigger field. I am not sure if it is just Canadian, North American or part of a world competition, but they are going to compete and I hope they do well. At any rate, he has done unbelievably well and I am so incredibly proud of his accomplishment.
SIFE is an extracurricular activity, which takes up a lot of time. There are approximately 60 members in their group and it is run like a business. They take on several projects throughout the year, helping young entrepreneurs start up businesses, give them goals, a plan and help them to implement them. Being the president, is like being the CEO of a small company. He/she must make sure everything is running smoothly and be able to liaise between the students, faculty and the business community, as well as making sure everyone is on task. Neil is totally up for the task, and he knows he is going to have an extremely busy 2008/2009. I for one am sure he will do an amazing job!
I am totally impressed with what he has done this year and will continue to do. Cudos Neil! Good job! You totally deserve it!
What do you see?
{ 11:14, 2008-Mar-27 }
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I took this photo yesterday when I was out for my walk. Do you see anything special when you look at these trees?
And then there were two...
{ 07:01, 2008-Mar-14 }
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Our guests left yesterday afternoon. Jon had a clear checkup at the Cancer Clinic, so that was incredibly good news. We all celebrated with chicken noodle soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. They took the afternoon flight back up north and the apartment once again was quiet. Unfortunately, we didn't get the Monopoly tournament in, as Donna was engrossed in Canuck hockey. They are making their "playoff run" as she calls it. She talked me into paying $14.00 on pay for view to watch the Ducks walk all over them! I soooo could have done without that, but I was happy the Ducks won. Last night she made me watch Wayne Gretzky et al walk all over the Canucks once again. What is it with their scoring line? Or I suppose lack of scoring would be more like it. They frustrate the hell out of me. Hopefully there don't play for a day or so now, so I can watch a team that might win, like perhaps the Penguins! Go Gino! Go Sid!(WEll if Sid is back). Anyway - enough hockey talk. There will be enough of that when the playoffs arrive.
I have made up a new work schedule for myself, which seems to be working so far (although I now should be working instead of writing on my blog - but whatevs). Instead of trying to work super hard and long hours for 4 or 5 days a week like I have been doing (which has not worked out), I now work only 4 to 4.5 hours 7 days a week, and it seems to be working out much better. I get up early, and I am finished by noon. That gives me the rest of the day to actually do something. Last week I managed to clean the entire apartment, which hasn't been done for ages. Like I mean cupboards and drawers and stuff like that! WOW....I can't even say when I got around to that last. It even allows time for me to go out for a walk in the afternoon as well, which I need. I have grown much too soft over the winter and need to get myself off this chair and out pounding the pavement.
At any rate, life is good here. We are expecting more company on the upcoming Easter weekend, and also have a dinner date and birthday party on Saturday, which gives us something to look forward to. I do believe we are having a rematch Trivial Pursuit game....Do you think Neil will dominant on the rematch??? Let's hope not...he gets far too cocky!
Sweet seductress
{ 08:18, 2008-Mar-6 }
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As I pass by the local produce stand and spot the bin of oranges saliva immediately pools at the base of my tongue. Picking up a medium-sized one near the middle anticipating the smell before inhaling, I touch the dimpled surface to the tip of my nose. California sun and tropical nights float to my mind. I close my eyes savoring and take another deep breath. I run my fingers over the surface and the smell permeates the tips. The naval at the bottom captures my curiosity as I examine the perfect inny. On the opposite side of this perfect orange sphere, I score the skin with my fingernail and gently pull the first piece of skin away from flesh. Removing the first peel, I bring it to my nose once again and inhale the sharper citrissy scent. My mouth waters as I wait for that first slice to hit my tongue. The skin comes off in small chunks as I slide my finger under each section and tear it from the flesh. As I near the bottom the skin becomes thinner, and harder to remove, but eventually the orange is naked. Inserting my thumb in the top I split the orange in half and I am treated to a generous squirt of juice. The two sections lay in my palms, moist and juicy and my salivary ducts once again burst forth. Removing the first segment, I place it on my tongue, close my mouth around it and bite down. As the membrane splits an explosion of juice fills my senses and I close my eyes and take pleasure. I swallow and then greedily slip in each new piece to satiate my appetite. Juice lingers on the tips of my fingers as I take my last swallow and I bring them to my lips and suck the last remains away. Ah, sweet temptress orange, you have quenched my thirst.
New baby!
{ 11:06, 2008-Mar-5 }
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One of my surrogate daughter's has just become a new mommy! She had a beautiful 7 pound, 8 ounce baby girl on March 3. I am so excited for Lyndsay and Scott, the proud new parents of baby Emma Marnie. Lyndsay has been part of our life for a very long time. Her and Donna were best friends growing up and we have always thought of her as part of our family. Lyndsay really always has been a "mother". She looked after Donna, her brother Ryne and her mom Marnie when George wasn't around. Marnie had MS and just passed away last year on Mother's Day. She would have been so proud to be a gramma to baby Emma. I'm sure she will be watching over Emma, Scott and Lyndsay.
Spring was in the air today. I went for a nice little walk and got a couple of photos. I haven't taken any pictures for awhile so it was nice to get out and more the old camera too and fro. I need to do that more often!
Here is one of the pictures I took. I will maybe post another tomorrow. For now I am going to hit the sheets and read my book I am engrossed in.
Shortlisted!
{ 09:35, 2008-Mar-4 }
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I just received an e-mail from Schmap.com telling me that this photo has been shortlisted to be used on their website! How exciting is that? Photo recognition twice in one week? Who knew?
I'm not really sure why they picked this photo in particular, because to my eye, it isn't that great, but it must be something particular they are looking for. It does however depict the copious amount of construction that is going on in our city at the moment. Gotta get ready for 2010!!! Anyway - before too much excitement sets in I will have to wait and see if it gets chosen. But for now - the shortlist is exciting in itself!
Three updates in one week??? I surprise even myself!
Gallery Opening
{ 06:38, 2008-Mar-3 }
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Trot on over this week and check out the gallery opening at our very own gallery http://tastefulpixels.efx2blogs.com/
Several of your own efxers have photographs posted there, myself included. I am happy and flattered to be included among the other talented photographers.
Come on....go check it out!
Leapin' Out of February....
{ 09:21, 2008-Feb-29 }
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Another busy week and a couple of interesting bus rides. Seems that is the highlight of my days at the college!
Coming home on Wednesday my bus picked up a poor old drunk about 3 stops before I got on. I was completely out of it, barely abel to sit and apparently fell when boarding the bus. The driver had called a superviser who in turn was trying to get a hold of the EHS personnel to meet us a few stops later and help the poor old guy off the bus. in the meantime, this guy decided he wanted to get off. The bus driver told us not to let him out the door. He wasn't too hard to restrain, but while we were waiting for EHS this guy was standing directly behind me with his head hanging over the seat. I was SURE he was going to puke all over me! Fortunately he did not and was safely removed from the bus. We were finally on our way, but now 15 minutes late as we had to wait at for help. The bus by this time was very, very full as we were far behind schedule and there were lots of people at every stop. As we stopped to pick up a bunch of school kids, 3 boys got on the back door and the bus driver yelled at them to get off the bus. A yelling match ensued with the driver finally getting out of his seat and coming back to the rear door with kids swearing and yelling etc. Finally they just got off the bus so we could be on our way. By this time I was now late for my dental appointment and not too happy about all the ruckus on the bus.
Today the ride home was much more amusing. A very good looking man was totally flirting with me, which is always an ego boost. It has been a LONG time since I have been blatantly hit upon so found it fun to flirt back. I don't think I've lost my touch...he seemed to be enjoying himself. After said good looker got off the bus, five 15-year-old boys boarded. Now, there is something about boys that age that totally amuses me. They are geeky, and awkward, and just plain weird. I never fail to laugh at their antics as I eavesdrop on their conversations. This bunch were rather humorous. One of them was sitting across from me, texting one of his top 5. When he had finished, he stood up to move closer to his friends, but just as he stood up, the driver moved forward, he took a misstep, stumbled down the stairs at the back section of the bus and fell right on top of my lap head first! I laughed so hard at this poor kid and his face was fire engine red! His friends were hooting so hard they had tears and I of course wasn't helping at all guffawing away at this poor clumsy kid. It definitely made my day as a good laugh always does. I am still chuckling thinking about it.
I had a good week at the college, but was busy doing a lot of marking and trying to instill confidence. They are getting ready to do their practicums and the older students are getting nervous and the younger ones are cocky. Ahhh...the innocence of youth! LOL....I don't go back again until mid March, at which time I am going to give a guest lecture on working from home. I am looking forward to it.
Neil has been in Calgary since Thursday. He is there with a small chosen group from BCIT doing a presentation for his young entrepeneurs group. They were involved in a competition today and Neil just called a bit ago and said they had come in second!!! I am so proud of him. Neil actually had to do the presentation, and by all counts did a fantastic job! They go to Toronto in another month for another presentation and hopefully he will be asked to go on this trip as well. Next week is mid terms for him, and then a week break before the wind down of year one.
Donna is doing well. She is now off all narcotics, is eating well, gaining weight and just generally happier. Her insomnia is over, she has been sleeping at night and up in the day (contrary to her old sleeping pattern of up all night and sleeping all day). All in all, just generally better and healthier. She has a new veintilator as well, which she is going to be trying out this week. It is MUCH smaller than her old one and only weighs 9 pounds as opposed to 33 so we are much happier with it. It will be much easier for her to get around without so much junk in her trunk!
So - that is my update for this week. I am tired of winter as I am sure most people are, but the buds are starting to come to the trees, the croci are in bloom and I even hear someone mowing their lawn the other day...so spring is on its way!
I have been trying to keep up with everyone here. I try to comment when i can, but I don't always have time. Eventually, I will get around to all of you.
On that note - peace out until my next update.
(I didn't proofread - so if there are any typos...ignore).
Mommy - You Don't Love Me Enough
{ 11:18, 2008-Feb-13 }
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Apparently Donna has decided that I do not love her enough! I have refused to row her across the Atlantic to Paris, I won't buy her a puppy AND I have refused to pay her $20.00 to vacate the apartment after midnight and before noon, in the event of a fire alarm. I mean, I must be the worst mother in the world! All the other mom's are doing it. I guess I just had better get on board!
She cracks me up! Pay her to leave in case of fire? WTF?
Oh and you can bet your ass when I go to the college this Friday, if there is any party at Lance's this weekend I am SO there! (Ben - I'll look for the boy and drag him along. It sounds like he could use a good chillin'!)
Pool, Hooka and Guitar Hero....
{ 05:35, 2008-Feb-12 }
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I did a week stint at the college last week, teaching new transcriptionists old tricks...or at least my tricks. It was pretty fun, and I really do enjoy actually being around people! Being home alone is one of the definite draw backs of my job. However, these little stints do bring me some extra life (and cash) and I get to used my stagnating teaching skills, just a little. The class is small, and they are all eager to learn, and hang on my every word. I have warned them that I am full of bull shit 50% of the time, but they didn't seem to care.
Anyhoodle, the most interesting part of the day for me is riding the bus into the college. Our transit in the city is excellent and it only costs me $5.00 a day for the bus as opposed to gas and trying to find a place to park downtown, which would cost upwards of about $20 for the day. Plus I get to listen to people's conversations, which is always a learning experience. Mornings are pretty low key. Nobody really says a hell of a lot. I think we are all still in a stupor, but coming home at 3:15 is great because there are a whack of kids on the bus, and always a great source of amusement to me. I chuckled all the way home on Thursday afternoon.
Boy 1 "Lance just gives the best parties dude."
Boy 2 Giggling.
Boy 1 "They're always the same - Pool, hooka, guitar hero!"
Boy 2 Still gigging.
Seriously - I gotta get me to one of Lance's parties. They sounded pretty fun by the descriptions I was hearing. These guys weren't taking life too seriously and their laughter was music to my ears. And believe me - there was lots of it (laughter - not my ears).
Food at the college is an experience as well. There is a culinary school there, so all the food in the bakery, cafeteria, and 5-star restaurant are prepared by the students. Plus - it's really well priced. There is at three specials everyday, all of which are excellent and portions pretty good. I only treated myself to lunch on Friday and ate in my office marking papers the rest of the week, but it was great. For $3.50 I got a big fat Rueban sandwich, fries (yeah - I know) and a drink. Can't beat that!
Such was my experience last week at the college and I look forward to another week at the end of the month.
Other than that, things are just rolling along the same as usual here. Donna has managed to break free of the dragon and is now totally narcotic free. She is still feeling kind of crappy, and I imagine she will for another week or so, but she has beat the Fentanyl. And her doctor thought she couldn't do it! HA....doesn't know her very well. I'm proud of her to say the least and happy to see she still has the maryjane munchies (even synthetic MJ causes you to eat your way through 3 bags of chips) and is putting on some much needed weight.
On that note I am off. I have to type while there is work, and there's some there now so I am letting my fingers fly. I will try to be more of a regular around here. Life has a way of getting in the way of things I enjoy sadly.
Still Lurking About...
{ 08:32, 2008-Jan-29 }
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I am still alive folks! I have just been incredibly busy. Our workload is really low right now, so I have to grab what I can when I can. So all my spare time is spent sitting at the computer and fighting for one more dictation. I almost wasn't able to make the rent this month, but after enough persistence I was the true Transcription Gladiator, and came out on top. Don't mess with me! I mean business. So there will be a decent entry to come soon. Just not today.
However - today I just want to say Happy Birthday to my beautiful daughter. She is turning 27 today, which I find totally incredible. I love her so very much and I am so grateful that I get to share everyday of my life with her. We have been together almost everyday for 27 years...and more if you count womb time and there is no one I would rather spend my time with. Enjoy your birthday! Love you with all my heart!
It Might Have Been Worse
{ 01:50, 2008-Jan-12 }
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IT MIGHT HAVE BEEN WORSE
Sometimes I pause and sadly think
Of the things that might have been,
Of golden chances I let slip by,
And which never returned again.
think of the joys that might have been mine;
The prizes I almost won,
The goals I missed by a mere hair's breadth;
And the things I might have done.
It fills me with gloom when I ponder thus,
Till I look on the other side,
How I might have been completely engulfed
By misfortune's surging tide.
The unknown dangers lurking about,
Which I passed safely through
The evils and sorrows that I've been spared
Pass plainly now in review.
So when I am downcast and feeling sad,
I repeat over and over again,
Things are far from being as bad
As they easily might have been.
Sometimes I pause and sadly think
Of the things that might have been,
Of golden chances I let slip by,
And which never returned again.
think of the joys that might have been mine;
The prizes I almost won,
The goals I missed by a mere hair's breadth;
And the things I might have done.
It fills me with gloom when I ponder thus,
Till I look on the other side,
How I might have been completely engulfed
By misfortune's surging tide.
The unknown dangers lurking about,
Which I passed safely through
The evils and sorrows that I've been spared
Pass plainly now in review.
So when I am downcast and feeling sad,
I repeat over and over again,
Things are far from being as bad
As they easily might have been.
G. J. Russell
Donna bought me a poetry book for Christmas and I thought this about summed up how I try to live my life.
My other digs...
{ 10:04, 2008-Jan-6 }
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I am not sure what is going on around here as I haven't been available to post or read as much as I would like to, but with the site up and down I get the sense people are getting antsy and worried yet again. I don't blame anyone that is for sure. In case things do go down, I can always be found over at my Blogspot photo site.
http://kinnigurl.blogspot.com/
You know - just in case anybody wants to stay in touch.
Lest We Forget
{ 07:28, 2007-Nov-11 }
{ 5 comments }
{ Link }
My thoughts and prayers are with all the men and women who have bravely fought for their countries. Bless you all.
Its Still Rock 'n Roll To Me
{ 11:05, 2007-Oct-30 }
{ 2 comments }
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Better late than never with the review of the Billy Joel concert. I have to say it was totally amazing!
Now I must confess, although I have always loved Billy's music, I can honestly say that I have never really listened to it with both my ears, if you know what I mean. I mumble the words around and sing the base line, and play air guitar to the riffs, but I never REALLY listened. On Tuesday night, I listened, I saw, and I felt the whole experience and I was blown away. The music is rock, but not predictable in that rock way. There are lots of unexpected changes throughout the music like rhythm, chords and key changes and a lot of jazz undertones. The backup band was top notch! The trumpet player blew it away in Zanzibar, which was one of my favorite songs. I am not sure I had ever heard it before, but I certainly will be listening to it again. He played all his hits and a few tunes from his earlier career when he was the opening act for the Beach Boys and got booed in our fair city. His keyboard skills are astounding, and I could only sit in awe and wish I could be half as good. Half way through he switched it up and grabbed the guitar with the piano disappearing into the floor. He played a couple of songs and then decided it was time for one of his long-time roadies to get a break and sing for us. I wasn't sure what to expect, as roadies singing are not usually a good thing, but we all gave this guy a warm Canadian welcome. He walked out on stage, which caused somewhat of a giggle. He was about 50ish, with cargo shorts and a tight tee not hiding his enormous belly. The intro to AC/DAs "Highway To Hell" filled the Garage and we all cheered him on! Well - he was totally amazing and soon we were all singing with him and watching him clomp back and forth on stage belly bouncing in time to the music! We gave him a standing O as he left the stage and I am sure that made his night! I am sure one of his dreams was lived out on Tuesday night.
Back to Billy. He played a couple more of his favorites on the piano, and then the show was over and he left the stage. We stood and yelled, clapped, stomped for about 5 minutes afraid he wasn't going to come back. He hadn't yet played Piano Man...and we all wanted it! I mean - that's why we came to the concert! He finally returned and played an encore, then another encore, and started to leave again...but we Vancouverites would not be disappointed. We screamed, yelled, and stomped until he sat back down at that piano and played the "Piano Man" and we all left extremely happy and satisfied.
I was so glad I was able to experience this concert first hand, and I now have an even better appreciation of music I had not delved into far enough. Neil loved the concert as well, and he sang right along with Mr. Joel all the way through. The parking lot was jammed as usual trying to exit the downtown core, but we were amused to see that some homeless guy had taken it upon himself to direct traffic in our area, and much to my surprise, everyone was doing exactly as he told them. I wish I would have had something to tip the guy, as he did a better job than VCP in getting us out of there reasonably quickly. I think he missed his calling. Maybe he should see if the city would hire him.
All in all a great night! Two thumbs up - great holiday fun!
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