I know it's a few days late, but Happy Christmukkawanzaa to all!
The sorry state of internet connections in this country is partially to blame, as is my extended family's pre-occipation with shoving plates of deliciousness in front of me. With so much food to be consumed, there is little, if any time to spend with frivolous things like checking e-mail and posting on the blog. I mean, how to you turn down barbecued chicken, seared fish steaks, and grilled squid served on banana leaves and dipped in freshly squeezed calamansi juice?
If I didn't have such an abnormally speedy metabolism, I would have to get my cousins to roll me aboard the airplane.
Sunday, December 26, 2004
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
vacation angst
This is the first post I've written since I've been on vacation. I'd love to say that I've been too busy frolicking on the beach or soaking in the sun to write, but that's barely the truth. Plain and simple, I've just been lazy. I started journalling for the first two weeks of the trip, and then as soon as I got to Davao, I don't think I've even managed to make a scribble in my journal. The pages sit barren and white, still crisp from neglect.
Most of the time since we've been in Davao has been either spent with the hoardes of cousins (fun! fun! fun!), traipsing all over town with my sister to shop for various wedding acoutrements (yawn), acting as chaperone for my sister and her fiance (terribly old-fashioned, and slightly silly, but bearable nonetheless), or dining with various relatives and friends of the parental units (varying from mildly enjoyable or downright uncomfortable, depending on the dinner companions present). My cousins finally got out of school this week, so we've actually been able to spend more time with them, but since there's little to see or do here, we've primarily been hanging out at the mall since the air conditioned interiors are a welcome reprieve from the sweltering heat outside.
I walked around the city the other day, and nearly gave my aunt a heart attack. I can't decide whether it was because it's deemed low-class to walk around the dusty streets alone, or if she was afraid that I would be kidnapped. She insisted that I get her driver to take me around the city, but after much arguing, I won out and was able to walk around on my own unaccompanied - on the condition that i called her once i got to my destination. She was so much like my mom it was endearing.
That's the tough thing about being here in the Philippines. The heat, grime, and shoddy plumbing, I've sort of gotten used to, or at least come to terms with. The things that I'm having the most difficulty with are my lack of language skills and my inability to get around on my own. True, I can utter a small handful of words and phrases in Tagalog, and a few in Bisaya, but aside from "mag kano to?" (how much is this?), I don't have much other useful vocbulary to boast of. I mean, how far can I get with words like "kamatis" (tomato) and "tubig" (water)? "Tubig ang kamatis daw, po. Salamat. Maligayang Pasko!" (Water with tomato please, sir. Thank you. Merry Christmas!" Yeah. Like I said, useful.
And then there's the matter of getting around. Walking, like I mentioned, seems to be out of the question. Not only is it searingly hot on the dusty roads, but it's pretty unsafe to be a pedestrian. Unless you're a seasoned veteran, the chances of getting run over by vehicles swerving in and out of traffic without regard for people on foot, or being pick-pocketted or nabbed are quite high. Driving is another story altogether. I'm comfortable driving in crazy traffic cities like Philadelphia and New York, but driving in the Philippines is insane. First of all, there are barely any road signs left - making navigation slightly difficult. They've all either rusted or fallen off, never to be replaced again. Secondly, there is little or no regard for traffic regulations. The rule seems to be: 'If you think you can pass, do it! And if you think you can't, honk your horn, and maybe you can intimdate the other drivers around you enough so that you can squeeze your way through.' Today, I was in the car with my cousin, and we witnessed a car losing its sideview mirrors to the traffic whizzing by. The driver simply stopped as one of the passengers got out of the car to pick up the mirror, and they drove off again like it was a daily occurence. No surprise, no kaffuffle. I had to laugh at the ease with which the situation was handled. If it were me, I would have insisted on exchanging license plates, etc.
Another thing that I'm having trouble getting accustomed to is the disparity between the rich and the poor. Everywhere you turn, there are people begging on the streets. In residential areas, at the mall, on the streets, in front of churches. And if you give any change to one, you'd better have enough to supply the masses that swarm around you after you've extended your hand to offer the first donation! The sad thing is, most of the beggars are children. young boys and girls in tattered clothes and barefoot, carrying their crying infant siblings, or holding the hand of a brother whose face is burned beyond recognition. It's heartbreaking to witness, and even more so to have to shoo them away from the door, as they grab onto your pants begging for alms as you try to get into your car or taxi.
But it's not all bad. spending time with faily has been what's made this vacation enjoyable. It's been about five years since I saw most of my cousins, so seeing them now all grown up is pretty exciting. the cousins on my dad's side are all pretty well-off businessmen and women with families f their own, and the cousins on my mom's side are mostly all in college or working. There's a few kiddos thrown in the mix, and they make for the life of the party. And since my dad has ten siblings, and my mom eight, there's plenty of family to go around!
As for the angst, I got an e-mail from the folks in Sweden, and it looks like I won't be moving there anytime soon. For a while, it was sounding like they wanted me to fly to Copenhagen on my way back to Vancouver for a third round of interviews. When it turned out that flights would be more expensive than anticipated and that I wouldn't be able to get there until the new year, I was told that the pool of candidates had been narrowed down to three other local candidates, and that since they wanted to make a decision before Christmas, they would just pick from those three. I can't say that I'm not disappointed, but I guess I know well enough now not to get my hopes up about these sort of things. More than being disappointed about not going to Sweden (or at least flying to Copenhagen for an interview), I'm more upset by the fact that I have to go back to my seemingly dead-end job. Now, I'm even more motivated to find out what opportunities the US has in store for me.
In other angsty news, my sister's finace has suggested that he will be coming back to the Philippines to help with the family business after the wedding, since it seems to be falling apart at the seams. My sister isn't pleased, as "this wasn't part of the plan!" She and I talked for most of the evening, after the two of them got off the phone, hashing out the various possiblilities, and despite her reluctance to move down here, I think she's resigned herself to the fact that she probably should.
"Life never turns out the way we plan for it to," I said in my best Yoda voice.
She responded, "I know. I hate it. I don't want to move back to the Philippines. And get married and have to consider other people aisde from me and my husband. And have to support his family. And pay a mortgage. And their mortgage. And have to start life over again. And figure out how to speak the language. And talk to the help. And get around. And figure out how to get a job. It sucks! And now I have to go pee!"
And with that final exclamation, she collapsed on the bed, heaving a big sigh.
Life is tough. And then you pee.
Most of the time since we've been in Davao has been either spent with the hoardes of cousins (fun! fun! fun!), traipsing all over town with my sister to shop for various wedding acoutrements (yawn), acting as chaperone for my sister and her fiance (terribly old-fashioned, and slightly silly, but bearable nonetheless), or dining with various relatives and friends of the parental units (varying from mildly enjoyable or downright uncomfortable, depending on the dinner companions present). My cousins finally got out of school this week, so we've actually been able to spend more time with them, but since there's little to see or do here, we've primarily been hanging out at the mall since the air conditioned interiors are a welcome reprieve from the sweltering heat outside.
I walked around the city the other day, and nearly gave my aunt a heart attack. I can't decide whether it was because it's deemed low-class to walk around the dusty streets alone, or if she was afraid that I would be kidnapped. She insisted that I get her driver to take me around the city, but after much arguing, I won out and was able to walk around on my own unaccompanied - on the condition that i called her once i got to my destination. She was so much like my mom it was endearing.
That's the tough thing about being here in the Philippines. The heat, grime, and shoddy plumbing, I've sort of gotten used to, or at least come to terms with. The things that I'm having the most difficulty with are my lack of language skills and my inability to get around on my own. True, I can utter a small handful of words and phrases in Tagalog, and a few in Bisaya, but aside from "mag kano to?" (how much is this?), I don't have much other useful vocbulary to boast of. I mean, how far can I get with words like "kamatis" (tomato) and "tubig" (water)? "Tubig ang kamatis daw, po. Salamat. Maligayang Pasko!" (Water with tomato please, sir. Thank you. Merry Christmas!" Yeah. Like I said, useful.
And then there's the matter of getting around. Walking, like I mentioned, seems to be out of the question. Not only is it searingly hot on the dusty roads, but it's pretty unsafe to be a pedestrian. Unless you're a seasoned veteran, the chances of getting run over by vehicles swerving in and out of traffic without regard for people on foot, or being pick-pocketted or nabbed are quite high. Driving is another story altogether. I'm comfortable driving in crazy traffic cities like Philadelphia and New York, but driving in the Philippines is insane. First of all, there are barely any road signs left - making navigation slightly difficult. They've all either rusted or fallen off, never to be replaced again. Secondly, there is little or no regard for traffic regulations. The rule seems to be: 'If you think you can pass, do it! And if you think you can't, honk your horn, and maybe you can intimdate the other drivers around you enough so that you can squeeze your way through.' Today, I was in the car with my cousin, and we witnessed a car losing its sideview mirrors to the traffic whizzing by. The driver simply stopped as one of the passengers got out of the car to pick up the mirror, and they drove off again like it was a daily occurence. No surprise, no kaffuffle. I had to laugh at the ease with which the situation was handled. If it were me, I would have insisted on exchanging license plates, etc.
Another thing that I'm having trouble getting accustomed to is the disparity between the rich and the poor. Everywhere you turn, there are people begging on the streets. In residential areas, at the mall, on the streets, in front of churches. And if you give any change to one, you'd better have enough to supply the masses that swarm around you after you've extended your hand to offer the first donation! The sad thing is, most of the beggars are children. young boys and girls in tattered clothes and barefoot, carrying their crying infant siblings, or holding the hand of a brother whose face is burned beyond recognition. It's heartbreaking to witness, and even more so to have to shoo them away from the door, as they grab onto your pants begging for alms as you try to get into your car or taxi.
But it's not all bad. spending time with faily has been what's made this vacation enjoyable. It's been about five years since I saw most of my cousins, so seeing them now all grown up is pretty exciting. the cousins on my dad's side are all pretty well-off businessmen and women with families f their own, and the cousins on my mom's side are mostly all in college or working. There's a few kiddos thrown in the mix, and they make for the life of the party. And since my dad has ten siblings, and my mom eight, there's plenty of family to go around!
As for the angst, I got an e-mail from the folks in Sweden, and it looks like I won't be moving there anytime soon. For a while, it was sounding like they wanted me to fly to Copenhagen on my way back to Vancouver for a third round of interviews. When it turned out that flights would be more expensive than anticipated and that I wouldn't be able to get there until the new year, I was told that the pool of candidates had been narrowed down to three other local candidates, and that since they wanted to make a decision before Christmas, they would just pick from those three. I can't say that I'm not disappointed, but I guess I know well enough now not to get my hopes up about these sort of things. More than being disappointed about not going to Sweden (or at least flying to Copenhagen for an interview), I'm more upset by the fact that I have to go back to my seemingly dead-end job. Now, I'm even more motivated to find out what opportunities the US has in store for me.
In other angsty news, my sister's finace has suggested that he will be coming back to the Philippines to help with the family business after the wedding, since it seems to be falling apart at the seams. My sister isn't pleased, as "this wasn't part of the plan!" She and I talked for most of the evening, after the two of them got off the phone, hashing out the various possiblilities, and despite her reluctance to move down here, I think she's resigned herself to the fact that she probably should.
"Life never turns out the way we plan for it to," I said in my best Yoda voice.
She responded, "I know. I hate it. I don't want to move back to the Philippines. And get married and have to consider other people aisde from me and my husband. And have to support his family. And pay a mortgage. And their mortgage. And have to start life over again. And figure out how to speak the language. And talk to the help. And get around. And figure out how to get a job. It sucks! And now I have to go pee!"
And with that final exclamation, she collapsed on the bed, heaving a big sigh.
Life is tough. And then you pee.
Thursday, December 02, 2004
bowl of cherries...
My flight leaves in ten hours. That means I have to leave the house in about six hours to pick up my sister's finace and get to the airport in time for international check-in. The flight may be delayed because of the crazy-ass typhoons that have touched down in Luzon and the surrounding area. This also means that our plans to hop to the resort island of Boracay may be thwarted. Plus it's raining and thundering elsewhere in the Philippines. I guess I shouldn't be whining so much about a potentially spoiled vacation when I haven't even packed my things yet, or considered the number of people missing or dead in the typhoons. Nothing like a little dose of reality to make you realize how un-sucky your life really is.
Alright, back to the bags...
Bubble Pop Electric :: Gwen Stefani
Alright, back to the bags...
Bubble Pop Electric :: Gwen Stefani
Monday, November 29, 2004
recaplet
Yet another week-in-summary post:
monday
Got a call from Lisa. Talked for hours, but somehow felt much shorter than that. Tried to convince her to come to the Philippines with me in December. Tempted her with promises of scuba diving and durian. It still remains to be seen if she will take the bait.
tuesday
T proposed lunch at Costco, so we all piled into my little car and drove off. There were no seats left insode, so we decided to eat outside. Too windy. Decided to pile back into my car. So, like, totally high school. As we sat and ate our pizza, chicken strips & fries, we made fun of people walking by. Ahhh...high school memories.
wednesday
Had our department Christmas party at Monsoon. Pan Asian food in a funky space. Vegetable Pakoras dipped in a tamarind chutney. Yummy daal and naan bread. Pan seared halibut and mussels with deep fried crispy lotus root and yam chips. The tacky gift exchange got me a three-part gift: an oversized wooden fork & spoon set, a WHAM! cassette, and a Farrah Faucet puzzle which revealed nipplage. Boss Man coveted, so I graciously offered Farrah to him. It was the least I could do. He paid for everyone's meals. He deserved a bit of fun for later.
thursday
Picked up Raj after work and headed to Granville Island to catch The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged). Went to Sandbar for dinner, then laughed our asses off at the show. Rolicking good times!
friday
Finally finished one of my big projects today, including installation. Breathed a big sigh of relief. Got a last-minute creative brief that was a rush job. Freaked out. Panicked. Stayed at work much longer than I should have. Got home at 9:00 pm. Fifteen hours at the office is waaay too long. When the hallucinations begin, it's time to go home.
saturday
Picked up the new Gwen Stefani and U2 albums. Rocked along with Gwen on the drive home. I *heart* her.
sunday
Went to Chapters. Picked up a book to send to Lisa, and then proceeded to shell out $87.14 on magazines. Two fluff reads for the plane ride, one regular read, and an expensive ($49.50) necessity. Why must design magazines be so expensive? You'd think we were well paid or something...
Despite the gorgeous you-should-be-outside-playing weather, I went to the office to get in a few hours of work. Slaved away and got much more done than I had anticipated. By the time I left, it was dark and I had missed my opportunity to frolick in the sunshine.
Fortunately, there are only four more sleeps until I hop on a plane for the sunny beaches of the Philippines. Damn, I still have to pack, wrap up Lisa's books and get them to the post office, pick up some goodies to bring back for my cousins, and finish everything off at work. *sigh* It's hard work preparing to go on vacation!
Vertigo :: U2
monday
Got a call from Lisa. Talked for hours, but somehow felt much shorter than that. Tried to convince her to come to the Philippines with me in December. Tempted her with promises of scuba diving and durian. It still remains to be seen if she will take the bait.
tuesday
T proposed lunch at Costco, so we all piled into my little car and drove off. There were no seats left insode, so we decided to eat outside. Too windy. Decided to pile back into my car. So, like, totally high school. As we sat and ate our pizza, chicken strips & fries, we made fun of people walking by. Ahhh...high school memories.
wednesday
Had our department Christmas party at Monsoon. Pan Asian food in a funky space. Vegetable Pakoras dipped in a tamarind chutney. Yummy daal and naan bread. Pan seared halibut and mussels with deep fried crispy lotus root and yam chips. The tacky gift exchange got me a three-part gift: an oversized wooden fork & spoon set, a WHAM! cassette, and a Farrah Faucet puzzle which revealed nipplage. Boss Man coveted, so I graciously offered Farrah to him. It was the least I could do. He paid for everyone's meals. He deserved a bit of fun for later.
thursday
Picked up Raj after work and headed to Granville Island to catch The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged). Went to Sandbar for dinner, then laughed our asses off at the show. Rolicking good times!
friday
Finally finished one of my big projects today, including installation. Breathed a big sigh of relief. Got a last-minute creative brief that was a rush job. Freaked out. Panicked. Stayed at work much longer than I should have. Got home at 9:00 pm. Fifteen hours at the office is waaay too long. When the hallucinations begin, it's time to go home.
saturday
Picked up the new Gwen Stefani and U2 albums. Rocked along with Gwen on the drive home. I *heart* her.
sunday
Went to Chapters. Picked up a book to send to Lisa, and then proceeded to shell out $87.14 on magazines. Two fluff reads for the plane ride, one regular read, and an expensive ($49.50) necessity. Why must design magazines be so expensive? You'd think we were well paid or something...
Despite the gorgeous you-should-be-outside-playing weather, I went to the office to get in a few hours of work. Slaved away and got much more done than I had anticipated. By the time I left, it was dark and I had missed my opportunity to frolick in the sunshine.
Fortunately, there are only four more sleeps until I hop on a plane for the sunny beaches of the Philippines. Damn, I still have to pack, wrap up Lisa's books and get them to the post office, pick up some goodies to bring back for my cousins, and finish everything off at work. *sigh* It's hard work preparing to go on vacation!
Vertigo :: U2
Tuesday, November 16, 2004
highlights
Today's excitements (in no particular order):
let's see...
Made Pad Thai with T and stayed over for dinner with him and his wife. Creation of the gingerbread Hummer followed. It's looking less and less like a Franken-tuck, and more like what it's intended to be. Icing and final touches are scheduled for completion later on in the week. It's a delicate and time-consuming art, this gingerbread sculpting!
Bitched about various annoyances with "the wife" while we hid out in my office late in the afternoon.
Started my current mapping/wayfinding project today, and thought I was making some real progress until I went to the computer and plotted out an initial mock-up. I was confused as ever by what I saw on the screen, and will need to start from square again tomorrow. A full day to realize that what I had was crap! Ah well, not all was in vain. At least I now have a light table for my office. (At least it's mine until someone tries to claim it back.)
Found out how much the folks at the external ad agency make doing the same thing that I do, but more shoddily. Let's just say that they make more money putting together one lousy flyer than I do in a single year! Oh the injustice of it all!
Called a friend in Calgary and had a good long chat...mostly about work, but also a little silliness and gossip thrown in for good measure. Had a chat with an English girl on the other end as well. Being the lover of accents that I am, this had to make it on my list of daily highlights. "Spoke with a Brit. Check!"
Discovered that a co-worker has shingles - otherwise known as herpes zoster, or a version of adult chicken pox. Not sure how contagious it is, but my fingers are crossed that it isn't too catching since we were sharing a bag of candies in the office late last week. I kept scratching nervously today, but I think it's just psychosomatic. I hope.
Found out that a co-worker's partner was just diagnosed with type 1 diabetes over the weekend. It's a big deal, particularly because he's a pilot - and this news means that he is no longer allowed to fly a plane because of the possible effects of the illness. It's what he's worked for long long to be, so the news is pretty devastating. Although he seems to be taking it in good stride so far. This serves as a reminder for me that no matter how bad I think things may be in my life, it's not really all that unbearable.
I'm going to go count my blessings now...Sunday, November 14, 2004
customer service
I finally found a copy of Back Porch Spirituals online and placed an order today. This was the e-mail confirmation that I received:
All I can say is, there had better be a gold-lined box encasing my CD when it arrives in the mail!
I love these people! I fully realize that the schmaltz is pure marketing, but I don't care. Put a beanie on my head and call me a sucker! Oh, and to the people of Portland, you're welcome. I hope you enjoyed the parade rustled up on my account.
Your CD has been gently taken from our CD Baby shelves with sterilized contamination-free gloves and placed onto a satin pillow.
A team of 50 employees inspected your CD and polished it to make sure it was in the best possible condition before mailing.
Our packing specialist from Japan lit a candle and a hush fell over the crowd as he put your CD into the finest gold-lined box that money can buy.
We all had a wonderful celebration afterwards and the whole party marched down the street to the post office where the entire town of Portland waved 'Bon Voyage!' to your package, on its way to you, in our private CD Baby jet on this day, Sunday, November 14th.
I hope you had a wonderful time shopping at CD Baby. We sure did. Your picture is on our wall as 'Customer of the Year'. We're all exhausted but can't wait for you to come back to CDBABY.COM!!
Thank you once again,
Derek Sivers, president, CD Baby
the little CD store
with the best new independent music
phone: 1-800-448-6369
email: cdbaby@cdbaby.com
http://www.cdbaby.com/
All I can say is, there had better be a gold-lined box encasing my CD when it arrives in the mail!
I love these people! I fully realize that the schmaltz is pure marketing, but I don't care. Put a beanie on my head and call me a sucker! Oh, and to the people of Portland, you're welcome. I hope you enjoyed the parade rustled up on my account.
Saturday, November 13, 2004
let it shine
Went to T's place after work today to build a gingerbread house. Kinda.
A little background. There's a gingerbread house contest at work. And while I'm not usually one to participate in cheesy little contests like this on a regular basis, I allowed T to convince me that it would be fun.
So, rather than making a typical gingerbread house, we hashed out a few different ideas. The Chrysler Building, a Frank Lloyd Wright house, and Malibu Barbie's Dream House were all discussed, as was a scale model of the building we're currently in the process of remodelling. In the end, we gave in to our testosterone fueled imaginations and decided to build a gingerbread Hummer. So far, I've built the body and T has fashioned tires from ropes of black licorice. It's coming together quite well, I must say. Stay tuned next week as I attempt to make plate glass for the windshield out of caramelized sugar.
We're such dorks!
After a quick dinner of pizza and beer, we headed over to the Media Club to soak in the folk-pop jangle of Jeremy Fisher in concert.
At various points throughout the evening, I was singing along and toe-tapping and lap-drumming like a kid in need of ritalin. Honestly, how could one not love a skinny afro-ed white kid singing his heart out with just a guitar and a harmonica (and the recent addition of a three-man band) to back him up? The only disappointment of the evening was finally making it to the back of the club to see if I could pick up a copy of his 2002 debut album, Back Porch Spirituals, only to find that they had all been sold. If I wasn't a saner person, I'd hop on the next flight to Alberta, follow the tour and pick up a copy of his first CD.
I'll try my luck online first.
Singing on the Sidewalk :: Jeremy Fisher
A little background. There's a gingerbread house contest at work. And while I'm not usually one to participate in cheesy little contests like this on a regular basis, I allowed T to convince me that it would be fun.
So, rather than making a typical gingerbread house, we hashed out a few different ideas. The Chrysler Building, a Frank Lloyd Wright house, and Malibu Barbie's Dream House were all discussed, as was a scale model of the building we're currently in the process of remodelling. In the end, we gave in to our testosterone fueled imaginations and decided to build a gingerbread Hummer. So far, I've built the body and T has fashioned tires from ropes of black licorice. It's coming together quite well, I must say. Stay tuned next week as I attempt to make plate glass for the windshield out of caramelized sugar.
We're such dorks!
After a quick dinner of pizza and beer, we headed over to the Media Club to soak in the folk-pop jangle of Jeremy Fisher in concert.
At various points throughout the evening, I was singing along and toe-tapping and lap-drumming like a kid in need of ritalin. Honestly, how could one not love a skinny afro-ed white kid singing his heart out with just a guitar and a harmonica (and the recent addition of a three-man band) to back him up? The only disappointment of the evening was finally making it to the back of the club to see if I could pick up a copy of his 2002 debut album, Back Porch Spirituals, only to find that they had all been sold. If I wasn't a saner person, I'd hop on the next flight to Alberta, follow the tour and pick up a copy of his first CD.
I'll try my luck online first.
Singing on the Sidewalk :: Jeremy Fisher
Friday, November 12, 2004
embarrassment
I'm sick of looking at my generic looking, template driven blog. As a graphic designer, I should be thoroughly embarrassed not to have a fancy schmancy looking site. Shame on me! I should seriously be walking around with a paper bag over my head. *sigh*
Don't worry, I'll get around to it...eventually. After I finally get rid of this decrepit old home computer (and replace it with a sexier version), wrap up the current round of freelance jobs, make it through her highness, my sister's wedding, finish training my new assistant to the point where he no longer requires adult supervision, start working more normal hours, and manage to avoid missing meals.
In other words, don't hold your breath.
The Bitch is Back :: Elton John
Don't worry, I'll get around to it...eventually. After I finally get rid of this decrepit old home computer (and replace it with a sexier version), wrap up the current round of freelance jobs, make it through her highness, my sister's wedding, finish training my new assistant to the point where he no longer requires adult supervision, start working more normal hours, and manage to avoid missing meals.
In other words, don't hold your breath.
The Bitch is Back :: Elton John
Thursday, November 11, 2004
jump
in omnia paratus
....which apparently means, prepared for all things. Like jumping off really hgh structures. Holding black umbrellas. And wearing fancy duds.
Oh Life & Death Brigade, if you were real, what I wouldn't do to become a member - just so I could pull silly stunts like this and not think twice about how silly they are, but rather how brave, adventurous, and completely spontaneous I am.
I watch waaay too much television.
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
sickly
Today marks day three of being quarantined at home with a nasty cold and splitting headache.
I awoke this morning and stumbled out of my room after calling the boss man to tell himthat I wouldn't be heading into the office, only to be greeted by the wailing of the house alarm. Apparently, my sister turned it on, not realizing that I was still alseep in bed when she left the house. Anyway, I enter teh code to disarm the system, get a call from the alarm company and give them the secret code to let them know that everything's alright. Everything under control, or so I thought.
The phone rings a few more times and the doorbell rings, but I ignore them both because I'm sick and don't feel like dealing with telemarketers or door-to-door canvassers. So instead, I plop myself down in front of the TV and start watching one of the DVDs that I rented. A few minutes later, I hear some rumbling outside, and then, a uniformed cop appears at the patio door. Turns out, I gave the wrong secret code to the alarm company, and the cops came to investigate. He climbed over the fence and into the backyard to gain entry and was sort of surprised to see me watching TV in the den. I went and got some ID and explained the whole situation, which seemed to placate him. It did manage to infuse a jolt of excitement to my otherwise boring day at home though.
Rather than do anything remotely useful or productive, I pretty much surrendered myself in front of the television and watched movies and bad daytime TV for the past three days. I had hoped the Angels in America DVD would be on the shelves at the video store, so that I could watch all six hours of it in one sitting, but it was out. I opted for a smattering of other selections in its place:
Mambo Italiano
Blast!
I'm the One that I Want
Igby Goes Down
Virgin Suicides
A Home at the End of the World
(after first finishing the novel by Michael Cunnigham, of course)
Bollywood/Hollywood
I'm too lazy to write reviews for any of them. All were generally good, but A Home at the End of the World was particularly so. A well-writted screenplay, ballanced by some very nuanced performances. I didn't even mind the plot changes and character omissions made to the novel in order to bring the work to screen.
Unless I take a turn for the worse, I head back to the office tomorrow to face all sorts of calamity, no doubt. I've kinda gotten used to lazing around at home with nothing to do but fold laundry and watch movies, but one more day of mind numbing boredom, and I think I will go crazy.
To Be Real :: Cheryl Lynn
I awoke this morning and stumbled out of my room after calling the boss man to tell himthat I wouldn't be heading into the office, only to be greeted by the wailing of the house alarm. Apparently, my sister turned it on, not realizing that I was still alseep in bed when she left the house. Anyway, I enter teh code to disarm the system, get a call from the alarm company and give them the secret code to let them know that everything's alright. Everything under control, or so I thought.
The phone rings a few more times and the doorbell rings, but I ignore them both because I'm sick and don't feel like dealing with telemarketers or door-to-door canvassers. So instead, I plop myself down in front of the TV and start watching one of the DVDs that I rented. A few minutes later, I hear some rumbling outside, and then, a uniformed cop appears at the patio door. Turns out, I gave the wrong secret code to the alarm company, and the cops came to investigate. He climbed over the fence and into the backyard to gain entry and was sort of surprised to see me watching TV in the den. I went and got some ID and explained the whole situation, which seemed to placate him. It did manage to infuse a jolt of excitement to my otherwise boring day at home though.
Rather than do anything remotely useful or productive, I pretty much surrendered myself in front of the television and watched movies and bad daytime TV for the past three days. I had hoped the Angels in America DVD would be on the shelves at the video store, so that I could watch all six hours of it in one sitting, but it was out. I opted for a smattering of other selections in its place:
Mambo Italiano
Blast!
I'm the One that I Want
Igby Goes Down
Virgin Suicides
A Home at the End of the World
(after first finishing the novel by Michael Cunnigham, of course)
Bollywood/Hollywood
I'm too lazy to write reviews for any of them. All were generally good, but A Home at the End of the World was particularly so. A well-writted screenplay, ballanced by some very nuanced performances. I didn't even mind the plot changes and character omissions made to the novel in order to bring the work to screen.
Unless I take a turn for the worse, I head back to the office tomorrow to face all sorts of calamity, no doubt. I've kinda gotten used to lazing around at home with nothing to do but fold laundry and watch movies, but one more day of mind numbing boredom, and I think I will go crazy.
To Be Real :: Cheryl Lynn
Friday, November 05, 2004
"there's a two-for-one special on brooding young men"
shiny happy people
For the first time in a long time, I came home before dark today. Took advantage of the last few remaining hours of daylight, threw my parka on and headed out for a walk. I figured that it's been a while since I've gone running that I should probably ease myself into it, rather than be all hard core about it. With the sounds of Donovan crooning in my headphones, I set of for a brisk autumn stroll down by the creek.
The air was cool and crisp, and I was entranced by the steam of my breath mingling with the cold air. Rain from the past few days made the grass soggy and wet, so no crunchinhing of leaves beneath my feet was to be had. Just the occasional squish and slosh of wet leaves permeated with yesterday's rain.
When I reached the creek, I noticed a pair of eyes peering at me from across the way. Startled, I took a step back as my heart skipped a few beats. Turned out to be an owl, perched on a trre branch, starting at me, but not commenting on my intrusion. I stared back, and after a long silence, we made our peace and only half-heartedly contemplated each other with polite disregard.
Seconds later, I was startled by a violent thrashing in the creek bed below. Upon closer inspection, I realized that I had stumbled upon a salmon run. The sleek silvery coats of the fish reflected the dwindling sunlight left peering through the treebranches overhead as they struggled to make their way upstream. Several of his comrades followed, each larger and more brutish than the last.
As they bellied their way past the large stones that dotted the creek, using them as leverage to push past the currentforcing its way downstream, I recognized the bullheaded determination in the midst of seeming futility. Part of me wanted to step into the frigidly cold waters, and guide them to the edge of the creek where the water doesn't flow as strong, and where they could propel themselves upstream with greater ease. But I realized that part o the beauty of this cycle is the struggle against adversity and the determination required to succeed.
I wish I could say that I returned home with my head held a little higher and a bounce in my step, determined to face the challenges ahead. Unfortunately, the only determination I had was to prepare a real dinner for myself - not that Chef Boyardee or Top Ramen crap that I've been ingesting lately out of sheer laziness.
Soy chicken with a side of stir-fried snow peas, miniature corn and cashews, served on savory steamed rice. After diner, I'm planning on indulging in some freshly made sorbet and the return of my favourite guilty pleasure.
Speaking of which, I just had to take this personality quiz. (I'm such a fourteen year old girl sometimes!) Apparently, I'm sooo Ryan. I would have thought more along the lines of Seth, but, like, what-ever!
really?
Here's to another season of watching spoiled anorexic girls boozing it up, brooding Russel-Crowe look-alikes in uniform wife beaters, and dorky protagonists getting the girl, an insane amount of pop culture references, and a pretty good handful of pretty good tunes.
Leaving New York :: REM
Thursday, November 04, 2004
the people have spoken
...and this is what they said. I hoped that people would have come to their senses and voted someone with the ability to string together coherent, intelligent-sounding sentences, at the very least, but who am I to judge?
I listen to this station at work, and as part of their post-election coverage, they hit the streets and interviewed Americans living in London to get their reaction to the news. Most were disappointed, but one girl was crying. Literally weeping.
God Bless America...red, white, and blue states alike.
I listen to this station at work, and as part of their post-election coverage, they hit the streets and interviewed Americans living in London to get their reaction to the news. Most were disappointed, but one girl was crying. Literally weeping.
God Bless America...red, white, and blue states alike.
Monday, November 01, 2004
doyenne
Today was my dad's birthday. Yes, he's Halloween baby. Funny thing is, he's a pretty fundamentalist Christian, so Halloween is very much a pagan holiday in his book. This has made for some interesing birthday celebrations in previous years. We usually celebrate with a birthday dinner at home, but when the trick-or-treaters would come ringing the doorbell, Dad would turn off all the lights and tell us to be quiet until the kids went away. Like the kids wouldn't notice the fact that the lights were one as they walked up the driveway, and the sounds of conversation filtering through the house, only to disappear the minute they reach the front door. But since it was Dad's day...we did as was requested of us and sat silently in the dark shaking our heads in embarassment. Part of our non-participation in so-called pagan rituals, I guess. Every so often, I'll get dressed up to go to work or to a party, and I know he's got a look of disappointment or disapproval on his face.
Anyway, this year, to avoid having to hide from the trick-or-treaters, we went out for dinner instead. We had planned on Japanese, but the place was closed, so we went to this great Indian Chinese place. Real fusion food without the pretentiousness of 'fashionable fusion.' The owner is a Chinese guy who grew up in India, so the menu is basically Chinese food with Indian flavourings.
We finished the evening off with cake - one that my sister and her fiance bought, and the other that I made...sorta. Ice cream cake topped with raspberry sorbet and decorated with whole raspberries and mint leaves glazed in a sugar syrup.
In addition to cake decorating, i've been a domestic doyenne the rest of this weekend as well. Cleaning...laundry...I even hemmed six pairs of pants - three pairs of khakis, two pairs of jeans, and a pair of cords. i broke two sewing machine needles in the process (damned jeans are way too thick for those wimpy little needles!), but at least it's all done. I've been putting it off for way too long, and since I was too cheap to get them to a tailor, I had to figure out how to do it myself.
I alo went to catch the Ray Charles biopic over the weekend. I liked that the movie portrayed the good and the bad and was not simply a glorified celebration of a musician's life. The man was unquestionably talented, but not without his faults and demons. Jamie Foxx was incredible. It wasn't until the end of the movie that I remembered that he was an actor portraying Ray, not Ray Charles himself as a younger man. If he doesn't get an Oscar for this performance come March, I will be shocked and dismayed. A hissy fit and questions about the competence of "The Academy" may follow, punctuatedwith many a cuss word.
"Deed I Do :: Blossom Dearie
Anyway, this year, to avoid having to hide from the trick-or-treaters, we went out for dinner instead. We had planned on Japanese, but the place was closed, so we went to this great Indian Chinese place. Real fusion food without the pretentiousness of 'fashionable fusion.' The owner is a Chinese guy who grew up in India, so the menu is basically Chinese food with Indian flavourings.
We finished the evening off with cake - one that my sister and her fiance bought, and the other that I made...sorta. Ice cream cake topped with raspberry sorbet and decorated with whole raspberries and mint leaves glazed in a sugar syrup.
In addition to cake decorating, i've been a domestic doyenne the rest of this weekend as well. Cleaning...laundry...I even hemmed six pairs of pants - three pairs of khakis, two pairs of jeans, and a pair of cords. i broke two sewing machine needles in the process (damned jeans are way too thick for those wimpy little needles!), but at least it's all done. I've been putting it off for way too long, and since I was too cheap to get them to a tailor, I had to figure out how to do it myself.
I alo went to catch the Ray Charles biopic over the weekend. I liked that the movie portrayed the good and the bad and was not simply a glorified celebration of a musician's life. The man was unquestionably talented, but not without his faults and demons. Jamie Foxx was incredible. It wasn't until the end of the movie that I remembered that he was an actor portraying Ray, not Ray Charles himself as a younger man. If he doesn't get an Oscar for this performance come March, I will be shocked and dismayed. A hissy fit and questions about the competence of "The Academy" may follow, punctuatedwith many a cuss word.
"Deed I Do :: Blossom Dearie
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
timeline
Inspired by Andy Brown's speech to Ephram in this week's episode, I decided to close my eyes and visualize where I would be in five years and figure out what I had to do to get me there. Well, as I closed my eyelids, the first thought that came to mind was, "In five years, I'll be thirty...well, twenty-nine, going on thirty. Holy crap! I'm too old for this visualization stuff. I need to get a life. That's what I need five years from now...a life." With that, my eyes flew open as I burst out laughing. Moment gone.
With that, I bring you stuff stolen from other people's blogs and modified for my own purposes...
10 years ago today, I would have been...
1. A tenth grader with ambitions of becoming the next Frank Lloyd Wright
2. Looking forward to my two week stint shadowing a much cooler third-year engineering student as part of a high-school/university co-op exchange program.
1. Shy and insecure.
5 years ago today, I would have been...
1. In my third year of University, officially having declared my intention to major in English Literature, after ditching the whole science thing and thereby dashing my parents' hopes of me entering the medical, dental, or engineering professions.
2. Living with my sister in a great little apartment on campus.
3. Getting ready to move to Victotria for my first job...and learning to be comfortable with being alone in a new place.
3 years ago today, I would have been...
1. Working at BC Hydro, trying to decipher my cube-mate's Portuguese conversations with her nanny while writing too many long e-mails to a girl that I evetually dated months later.
2. Figuring out that I probably wanted to be a graphic designer when I graduated.
3. Really giving serious consideration to the question of what I was going to do with the rest of my life.
1 year ago today, I was...
1. Just returning from a two-month long business trip in Toronto.
2. Itching to get back on the road.
3. And out of the house.
So far this year, I have...
1. Become more jaded and cynical, much to my dismay.
2. Been offered opportunities in Greece, Saudi Arabia, Minneapolis, and Texas, only to be forced to turn them down. (Only the last one was my decision.)
3. Travelled to New York. Alone.
Yesterday, I...
1. Started to wrap my head around my sister's upcoming wedding.
2. Went to the movies. Alone.
3. Started writing a handwritten letter to a friend.
Today, I...
1. Overslept.
2. Nodded and smiled a lot while the boss man yammered on with his hands flailing around madly in front of him as he gesticulated. I tuned him out after the first sentence. I don't think he caught on.
3. Finished several ads and crossed off many an item on my to-do list.
Tomorrow, I...
1. Will go to work early and give my "wife" a big welcome back hug.
2. Will give an orientation to my new assistant and b/s my way through his training.
3. Will carpe the diem a little more, and find out what the future holds for me.
Day Dreamer :: Donovan Frankenreiter
With that, I bring you stuff stolen from other people's blogs and modified for my own purposes...
10 years ago today, I would have been...
1. A tenth grader with ambitions of becoming the next Frank Lloyd Wright
2. Looking forward to my two week stint shadowing a much cooler third-year engineering student as part of a high-school/university co-op exchange program.
1. Shy and insecure.
5 years ago today, I would have been...
1. In my third year of University, officially having declared my intention to major in English Literature, after ditching the whole science thing and thereby dashing my parents' hopes of me entering the medical, dental, or engineering professions.
2. Living with my sister in a great little apartment on campus.
3. Getting ready to move to Victotria for my first job...and learning to be comfortable with being alone in a new place.
3 years ago today, I would have been...
1. Working at BC Hydro, trying to decipher my cube-mate's Portuguese conversations with her nanny while writing too many long e-mails to a girl that I evetually dated months later.
2. Figuring out that I probably wanted to be a graphic designer when I graduated.
3. Really giving serious consideration to the question of what I was going to do with the rest of my life.
1 year ago today, I was...
1. Just returning from a two-month long business trip in Toronto.
2. Itching to get back on the road.
3. And out of the house.
So far this year, I have...
1. Become more jaded and cynical, much to my dismay.
2. Been offered opportunities in Greece, Saudi Arabia, Minneapolis, and Texas, only to be forced to turn them down. (Only the last one was my decision.)
3. Travelled to New York. Alone.
Yesterday, I...
1. Started to wrap my head around my sister's upcoming wedding.
2. Went to the movies. Alone.
3. Started writing a handwritten letter to a friend.
Today, I...
1. Overslept.
2. Nodded and smiled a lot while the boss man yammered on with his hands flailing around madly in front of him as he gesticulated. I tuned him out after the first sentence. I don't think he caught on.
3. Finished several ads and crossed off many an item on my to-do list.
Tomorrow, I...
1. Will go to work early and give my "wife" a big welcome back hug.
2. Will give an orientation to my new assistant and b/s my way through his training.
3. Will carpe the diem a little more, and find out what the future holds for me.
Day Dreamer :: Donovan Frankenreiter
Monday, October 25, 2004
case of the existential detectives
Had a lunch meeting with my sister, her faince and my friend C, the wedding planner. I ordered the Indian lamb curry, which tasted like Irish stew...with beef. Should have known better than to order a curry from a wannabe British pub chain located in Vancouver and expect it to be authentic.
After lunch, I decided to go watch I *heart* Huckabees. It was a little zany, but I enjoyed it. Not exactly Oscar-worthy performances, but thought-provoking in a light-hearted presentation. I probably would have enjoyed it more if the theatre hadn't been so suffocatingly hot. In the middle of the movie, I started stipping of any removable layers that could be taken off without crossing the boundaries of common decency. Although in hindsight, the theatre was pitch dark, so nobody would have batted an eyelash at my exposure - indecent or otherwise.
Check out the corporate website, if you have time. It's a piece of work in and of itself. Reminds me of Sam Walton's place, only more upscale. Speaking of which, I found out yesterday at the exhibit that Walton has more people in uniform than the entire US Army. Scary!
Blackbird :: Sarah McLachlan
After lunch, I decided to go watch I *heart* Huckabees. It was a little zany, but I enjoyed it. Not exactly Oscar-worthy performances, but thought-provoking in a light-hearted presentation. I probably would have enjoyed it more if the theatre hadn't been so suffocatingly hot. In the middle of the movie, I started stipping of any removable layers that could be taken off without crossing the boundaries of common decency. Although in hindsight, the theatre was pitch dark, so nobody would have batted an eyelash at my exposure - indecent or otherwise.
Check out the corporate website, if you have time. It's a piece of work in and of itself. Reminds me of Sam Walton's place, only more upscale. Speaking of which, I found out yesterday at the exhibit that Walton has more people in uniform than the entire US Army. Scary!
Blackbird :: Sarah McLachlan
Sunday, October 24, 2004
change is good
....or is it?
Went downtown today to check out the Massive Change exhibit, which is making its world permiere at the VAG. Visually delicious, the exhibit traces the multiple interconnections between design and human existence, and the ways the two interact and affect each other. More importantly, it showcases the bounds of human inventiveness and discusses the dystopian possibilities that could lie ahead.
That Bruce Mau, he's amazing. After walking through the gallery, I decided that I wanted to be his disciple. Thing is, I can't really afdford to shell out $12,000 for tuition without going into debt. I just paid off my student loan debt. I'm not exactly looking to go through that again. Maybe I'll just buy the book.
Finished off the day with some window shopping along Robson Street and a dinner of Chicken Shawrama on Rice, Tabouleh, and Pita wedges with Hummus. A scrumptious end to a crisp fall day. I had a craving for something fruity and sweet, so I made myself some fresh raspberry sorbet when I got home...from scratch. Believe it!
Shooting Star (In Spite of it All) :: Jeremy Fisher
Went downtown today to check out the Massive Change exhibit, which is making its world permiere at the VAG. Visually delicious, the exhibit traces the multiple interconnections between design and human existence, and the ways the two interact and affect each other. More importantly, it showcases the bounds of human inventiveness and discusses the dystopian possibilities that could lie ahead.
That Bruce Mau, he's amazing. After walking through the gallery, I decided that I wanted to be his disciple. Thing is, I can't really afdford to shell out $12,000 for tuition without going into debt. I just paid off my student loan debt. I'm not exactly looking to go through that again. Maybe I'll just buy the book.
Finished off the day with some window shopping along Robson Street and a dinner of Chicken Shawrama on Rice, Tabouleh, and Pita wedges with Hummus. A scrumptious end to a crisp fall day. I had a craving for something fruity and sweet, so I made myself some fresh raspberry sorbet when I got home...from scratch. Believe it!
Shooting Star (In Spite of it All) :: Jeremy Fisher
Wednesday, October 20, 2004
bursting at the seams
I almost lost my thumb today.
Okay, perhaps that's a little melodramatic. I was cropping down a proof at work today, and without paying attention, i sliced the top of my thumb open. It was one of those weird moments where you realize what's happenening while it's happening, but are powerless to stop it. Kind of like a car wreck. I could have kicked myself for being so stupid!
Anyway, bleed, bleed, bleed. Gush, gush, gush. It was a messy sight. I had planned on just bandaging it and sucking it up, but when I realized how bad it might be, I made a mad dash to the first aid guys in the office. Luckily, I was greeted by Rob, one of my favorite firast aid guys. He cleaned and wrapped my finger in a cool pressure bandage (which was complimented by the nurse who did my initial examination a few hours later), then called and got someone to drive me to emergency to get it stitched up.
I don't think he actually told them why I needed to get to emergency - just that I needed to go, so when Britta got the call, a bit of a panic ensued. They tried to find Terry, because he drives like a madman, they rationalized, and could get me there faster. But it would take forever to track him down, so it would probably be faster for her to send Katie.
Katie ended up being my personal ambulance and rushed me to a walk-in clinic nearby. We reasoned that I'd probably get stitched up faster and have a shorter wait than if I went to emergency. Plus, Katie has a bit of a crush on the the doctor at this particular clinic, so this plan wasn't without its ulterior motives.
We made fun of people in magazines while we waited, and as we shuffled through the stack of magazines, we found a pad of viagra stationary. I took one quick look at it and knew that I had to steal a sheet or two for posterity. My favorites are point four and point five.
how to make viagra work for you
Anyway, when I finally went it, Dr. H decided to shoot me with a bunch of needles. Tetanus, lidocaine, sutures... The Tetanus booster was cake, but lucky for me, I cut myself right where the nerve endings are, so I was howling in pain by the time the last two needles went in. Dr. H gave me this explanation and then then said, it's gonna hurt real bad, but it doesn't make you any less tough..."
As the needles went in, I holwed back, "I don't care how tough or simpy I come across...that hurts like HELLl!!!" Followed by, "Ohgod! ohgod! ohgod!" in rapid succession.
Because one of the stitches was near the nail, he didn't use any lidocaine for that one...just went straight at it. I was warned ahead of time, but I still cursed under my breath in every language I could conjure up!
As brutal as he sounds, Dr. H was actually pretty great throughout the whole thing - joking with me as we went on. I never understood Katie's crush on him before, but now that I've met him. I totally get it. He is, like, the nicest man ever. As Dr. H walked me back out to the waiting room, I spotted Katie peeking up from behind the pages of her magazine, all flustered and excited to catch a glimpse of him.
"Wasn't he the greatest?" she gushed as we walked out of the clinic.
I have a hunch that she'll volunteer to drive me back next week when I have go back to get my stitches taken out.
Between Signal & Noise :: Elvind Aarest
Okay, perhaps that's a little melodramatic. I was cropping down a proof at work today, and without paying attention, i sliced the top of my thumb open. It was one of those weird moments where you realize what's happenening while it's happening, but are powerless to stop it. Kind of like a car wreck. I could have kicked myself for being so stupid!
Anyway, bleed, bleed, bleed. Gush, gush, gush. It was a messy sight. I had planned on just bandaging it and sucking it up, but when I realized how bad it might be, I made a mad dash to the first aid guys in the office. Luckily, I was greeted by Rob, one of my favorite firast aid guys. He cleaned and wrapped my finger in a cool pressure bandage (which was complimented by the nurse who did my initial examination a few hours later), then called and got someone to drive me to emergency to get it stitched up.
I don't think he actually told them why I needed to get to emergency - just that I needed to go, so when Britta got the call, a bit of a panic ensued. They tried to find Terry, because he drives like a madman, they rationalized, and could get me there faster. But it would take forever to track him down, so it would probably be faster for her to send Katie.
Katie ended up being my personal ambulance and rushed me to a walk-in clinic nearby. We reasoned that I'd probably get stitched up faster and have a shorter wait than if I went to emergency. Plus, Katie has a bit of a crush on the the doctor at this particular clinic, so this plan wasn't without its ulterior motives.
We made fun of people in magazines while we waited, and as we shuffled through the stack of magazines, we found a pad of viagra stationary. I took one quick look at it and knew that I had to steal a sheet or two for posterity. My favorites are point four and point five.
how to make viagra work for you
4. You need sexual stimulation in order for Viagra to work.
[Followed by a picture of a man puckering up.]
5. Viagra doesn't work for everyone the first time they take it, so try again another day.[Accompanied by an image of calendar pages flying off as they are being torn. "If at first you don't succeed, try, try, try again?")
Anyway, when I finally went it, Dr. H decided to shoot me with a bunch of needles. Tetanus, lidocaine, sutures... The Tetanus booster was cake, but lucky for me, I cut myself right where the nerve endings are, so I was howling in pain by the time the last two needles went in. Dr. H gave me this explanation and then then said, it's gonna hurt real bad, but it doesn't make you any less tough..."
As the needles went in, I holwed back, "I don't care how tough or simpy I come across...that hurts like HELLl!!!" Followed by, "Ohgod! ohgod! ohgod!" in rapid succession.
Because one of the stitches was near the nail, he didn't use any lidocaine for that one...just went straight at it. I was warned ahead of time, but I still cursed under my breath in every language I could conjure up!
As brutal as he sounds, Dr. H was actually pretty great throughout the whole thing - joking with me as we went on. I never understood Katie's crush on him before, but now that I've met him. I totally get it. He is, like, the nicest man ever. As Dr. H walked me back out to the waiting room, I spotted Katie peeking up from behind the pages of her magazine, all flustered and excited to catch a glimpse of him.
"Wasn't he the greatest?" she gushed as we walked out of the clinic.
I have a hunch that she'll volunteer to drive me back next week when I have go back to get my stitches taken out.
Between Signal & Noise :: Elvind Aarest
Tuesday, October 19, 2004
neither half-empty nor half-full
Just finished mediating an argument between my sister and our parents about the wedding guest list. She wants to keep it to a manageable number so that she and the husband-in-waiting can stick to budget. The parental units want to invite everyone who ever said hello to them in passing. Asked where he expects the money to come from for all these extra guests, my dad responds in a sing-song voice, "God will provide."
Aggravated, I almost stormed out of the room with clenched fists, a furrowed brow, and thunderclouds circling my head.
Lord, forgive me for being a realist.
Aggravated, I almost stormed out of the room with clenched fists, a furrowed brow, and thunderclouds circling my head.
Lord, forgive me for being a realist.
you'll find me under the palm branches
After going through the interviews and tabulating the results, I finally got to hire another assistant. The rankings were close and because of the union environment I work in, the final decision was based on seniority. Not necessarily the way I would have gone (my first choice would have been the candidate that listed "handsome and charming" as qualifications on his application because it made me laugh), but I think it'll be good to see how things work out. If nothing else, I'm just happy to have extra hands to carry out my bidding.
After being off-site for so long, it's a struggle getting back into the swing of things at the office. This morning, I was welcomed back with a tonne of messages on my machine and plenty of e-mails in my inbox with urgent requests. Much cursing and head-pounding quickly ensued. There may have also been a few shaken fists.
To cheer me up, Terry decorated my office with three 4' palms in my office brought back from our Home Show booth. They now sit in a row on top of a series of cabinets above my desk (my office boasts a high, vaulted ceiling). It feels like Miami everytime I step in there. It's slightly ridiculouus, but I love it just the same.
Let it Shine :: Jeremy Fisher
After being off-site for so long, it's a struggle getting back into the swing of things at the office. This morning, I was welcomed back with a tonne of messages on my machine and plenty of e-mails in my inbox with urgent requests. Much cursing and head-pounding quickly ensued. There may have also been a few shaken fists.
To cheer me up, Terry decorated my office with three 4' palms in my office brought back from our Home Show booth. They now sit in a row on top of a series of cabinets above my desk (my office boasts a high, vaulted ceiling). It feels like Miami everytime I step in there. It's slightly ridiculouus, but I love it just the same.
Let it Shine :: Jeremy Fisher
Monday, October 18, 2004
weekend update
[thursday]
Another day at the Home Show with Terry, putting the finishing touches on our display. I have to say, it turned out much better than I had anticipated. (Hands clapping with glee...)
After we handed everything over to the salespeople, the two of us decided to check out the rest of the exhibitors. We watched a food demo presented by Frank Pabst, the Executive Chef at Blue Water Cafe, a lighting seminar by Wes Thurn, a Vancouver-based designer, and a Designer's Workshop given by Sarah Richardson, formerly of Room Service, and now of Design Inc. fame. I was going to be a dork and ask for a photo with her (to send to Julia, her biggest fan), but when the session ended, my shyness took over, and I wimped out.
[friday]
After pulling twelve-hour days setting up for the Home Show, I decided to take a well-deserved day off. Afterall, I need a break before going back to the Stadium again on Monday to dismantle our display. I had planned on either going to the art gallery to see the Massive Change exhibit or to hear Karim Rashid speak at the show about the joys of designing for Umbra or his plan for taking over the design community, but after waking up to see that it was two o'clock in the afternoon, I scratched all plans, and stayed in bed for the rest of the day. Caught up on the taped shows that I had missed, and generally filled my brain with trash TV of all sorts. Despite the apparent sloth and ambivalence towards this lack of productivity, it felt strangely good.
[saturday]
Started the weekend with a morning coffee at Starbucks with Raj. It's been ages since we last saw each other, so it was nice to catch up on our University days, talk about our recent travels (hers more exciting than mine, of course - London vs. Philadelphia), and compare aggravating existenses living at home with the parental units. (Again, I had to concede defeat this round...she's got it worse off than I do.)
We also made plans to catch Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) when it starts next month. I saw the play in '99 with Serey, who took me for my birthday. Pissed my pants laughing - and that's before I developed a deeper appreciation for the Bard a few years later. Now, Lit. Major in hand and a year of Shakespeare under my belt, I'm looking forward to seeing it again and catching more of the hidden puns and ironies. Raj, havinng been my Shakespeare Sidekick back in University, is just as excited.
Afterwards, I went music shopping and picked up both Jeremy Fisher and Josh Ritter albums. Haven't really gotten into Ritter's Hello Starling yet, but after several spins, I think Fisher's Let it Shine has found a permanent place on my favourites shelf.
I had planned on ending my break from running, but because of the cold, rainy weather, decided to stay under cover and dug into Kushneer's Angels in America instead. The play, not the DVD. I bought the manuscripts a few years ago, upon recommendation from a former English Professor, but never got around to reading them. I promised myself that I'd read both parts before seeing a performance, and since the HBO production has now been made available on DVD, I decided that this was as good a time as any to start reading.
[sunday]
After devouring the manuscript, I was all eager to pick up the DVD from the video store. Unfortunately, all the copies were rented out, so I decided to see if I could find it at Future Shop. Turns out they had it, but at close to $50, I figure I'll either wait for the rental to become available, or buy it from Amazon for a 30% discount instead.
Also went to the public library and picked up one of Lynn Johnson's For Better or For Worse books. The simple reality that is portrayed in the strips is enough to make me laugh and cry with each turn of the page. Picking a comic collection is kinda like cheating, but I like being able to read them all in one sitting, without the cumbersome nature of waiting for the serials.
Took engagement photos for my sister and her fiance, which will eventually be used on the invitations to their engagement soiree. I wanted the photos to be playful and fun, so I made them stick Candy Hearts inscribed with various phrases such as "Marry Me" and "Hot Lips" between their lips.
Among the mix, I found one that read "Fax Me."
That is like, sooo, 1980's. And besides, who the hell faxes a love note or a pick-up line?
Lemon Meringue Pie :: Jeremy Fisher
Another day at the Home Show with Terry, putting the finishing touches on our display. I have to say, it turned out much better than I had anticipated. (Hands clapping with glee...)
After we handed everything over to the salespeople, the two of us decided to check out the rest of the exhibitors. We watched a food demo presented by Frank Pabst, the Executive Chef at Blue Water Cafe, a lighting seminar by Wes Thurn, a Vancouver-based designer, and a Designer's Workshop given by Sarah Richardson, formerly of Room Service, and now of Design Inc. fame. I was going to be a dork and ask for a photo with her (to send to Julia, her biggest fan), but when the session ended, my shyness took over, and I wimped out.
[friday]
After pulling twelve-hour days setting up for the Home Show, I decided to take a well-deserved day off. Afterall, I need a break before going back to the Stadium again on Monday to dismantle our display. I had planned on either going to the art gallery to see the Massive Change exhibit or to hear Karim Rashid speak at the show about the joys of designing for Umbra or his plan for taking over the design community, but after waking up to see that it was two o'clock in the afternoon, I scratched all plans, and stayed in bed for the rest of the day. Caught up on the taped shows that I had missed, and generally filled my brain with trash TV of all sorts. Despite the apparent sloth and ambivalence towards this lack of productivity, it felt strangely good.
[saturday]
Started the weekend with a morning coffee at Starbucks with Raj. It's been ages since we last saw each other, so it was nice to catch up on our University days, talk about our recent travels (hers more exciting than mine, of course - London vs. Philadelphia), and compare aggravating existenses living at home with the parental units. (Again, I had to concede defeat this round...she's got it worse off than I do.)
We also made plans to catch Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) when it starts next month. I saw the play in '99 with Serey, who took me for my birthday. Pissed my pants laughing - and that's before I developed a deeper appreciation for the Bard a few years later. Now, Lit. Major in hand and a year of Shakespeare under my belt, I'm looking forward to seeing it again and catching more of the hidden puns and ironies. Raj, havinng been my Shakespeare Sidekick back in University, is just as excited.
Afterwards, I went music shopping and picked up both Jeremy Fisher and Josh Ritter albums. Haven't really gotten into Ritter's Hello Starling yet, but after several spins, I think Fisher's Let it Shine has found a permanent place on my favourites shelf.
I had planned on ending my break from running, but because of the cold, rainy weather, decided to stay under cover and dug into Kushneer's Angels in America instead. The play, not the DVD. I bought the manuscripts a few years ago, upon recommendation from a former English Professor, but never got around to reading them. I promised myself that I'd read both parts before seeing a performance, and since the HBO production has now been made available on DVD, I decided that this was as good a time as any to start reading.
[sunday]
After devouring the manuscript, I was all eager to pick up the DVD from the video store. Unfortunately, all the copies were rented out, so I decided to see if I could find it at Future Shop. Turns out they had it, but at close to $50, I figure I'll either wait for the rental to become available, or buy it from Amazon for a 30% discount instead.
Also went to the public library and picked up one of Lynn Johnson's For Better or For Worse books. The simple reality that is portrayed in the strips is enough to make me laugh and cry with each turn of the page. Picking a comic collection is kinda like cheating, but I like being able to read them all in one sitting, without the cumbersome nature of waiting for the serials.
Took engagement photos for my sister and her fiance, which will eventually be used on the invitations to their engagement soiree. I wanted the photos to be playful and fun, so I made them stick Candy Hearts inscribed with various phrases such as "Marry Me" and "Hot Lips" between their lips.
Among the mix, I found one that read "Fax Me."
That is like, sooo, 1980's. And besides, who the hell faxes a love note or a pick-up line?
Lemon Meringue Pie :: Jeremy Fisher
Sunday, October 17, 2004
....jack & jill came down the hill
I was going through the collection of mp3's that I collected back in my University days and came across The Truth About Romeo by Pancho's Lament, the theme song for Jack & Jill. I still remember packing up my books and running over to Mawdsley House in my PJs to watch the show with Sharla and Shauna every week. We'd all have out textbooks and notes spread out on our laps and around us, but ignore them for the whole hour as we sat glued to the screen. It was like a weekly soap opera about fresh-out-of college twenty-somethings trying to make it in the real world in an age of Ally McBeals. We were so addicted.
Come to think of it, I'm not really sure how the show ended or why it was cancelled. There was a pretty good cast involved, including Amanda Peet, Ivan Sergei, Justin Kirk, Sarah Paulson, Jaime Pressly, and the infamous Simon Rex, so there was no shortage of decent actors (with the exception of the latter two). If this show every makes it to DVD, someone please tell me.
The Truth About Romeo :: Pancho's Lament
Come to think of it, I'm not really sure how the show ended or why it was cancelled. There was a pretty good cast involved, including Amanda Peet, Ivan Sergei, Justin Kirk, Sarah Paulson, Jaime Pressly, and the infamous Simon Rex, so there was no shortage of decent actors (with the exception of the latter two). If this show every makes it to DVD, someone please tell me.
The Truth About Romeo :: Pancho's Lament
Thursday, October 14, 2004
a slurpee a day
Went to set up our booth at the Home Show today. Nice change from being at the office. I was reduced to a giddy little schoolboy as I drove my car into the Stadium through the airlock gates. I drove my car into the middle of the freaking Stadium!
Started the day off with Slurpees. Terry's idea. A good one at that!
Spent much longer setting up the booth than I though it would take. Will probably return tomorrow to fine tune. It's been a great experience, but I'll be glad when it's over.
Had a grilled ahi tuna burger from Subeez for lunch. Tres tres cool, and tres, tres chic... The waitress asked if we wanted beer with our meals. "It's the middle of the workday!" I wanted to tell her as I shook her by the shoulders. Do Canadians actually drink between the hours of 9 and 5? It's unheard of! Unless you're a sommelier, a wine critic, or a perpetual drunk. I was tempted though.
Had dinner later in the evening with Cathy at Chambar. A beautifully decorated interior, a list of Belgian beer as long as my arm, a delicous bouillabaisse bursting with rich flavour, and great conversation. What more could you ask for?
Everything I Do Gonna Be Funky :: Lou Donalson
Started the day off with Slurpees. Terry's idea. A good one at that!
Spent much longer setting up the booth than I though it would take. Will probably return tomorrow to fine tune. It's been a great experience, but I'll be glad when it's over.
Had a grilled ahi tuna burger from Subeez for lunch. Tres tres cool, and tres, tres chic... The waitress asked if we wanted beer with our meals. "It's the middle of the workday!" I wanted to tell her as I shook her by the shoulders. Do Canadians actually drink between the hours of 9 and 5? It's unheard of! Unless you're a sommelier, a wine critic, or a perpetual drunk. I was tempted though.
Had dinner later in the evening with Cathy at Chambar. A beautifully decorated interior, a list of Belgian beer as long as my arm, a delicous bouillabaisse bursting with rich flavour, and great conversation. What more could you ask for?
Everything I Do Gonna Be Funky :: Lou Donalson
Wednesday, October 13, 2004
now there was a real gent
Superman's Song :: Crash Test Dummies
Tarzan wasn't a ladies' man
He'd just come along and scoop 'em up under his arm
Like that, quick as a cat in the jungle
But Clark Kent, now there was a real gent
He would not be caught sittin' around in no
Junglescape, dumb as an ape doing nothing
[Chorus:]
Superman never made any money
For saving the world from Solomon Grundy
And sometimes I despair the world will never see
Another man like him
Hey Bob, Supe had a straight job
Even though he could have smashed through any bank
In the United States, he had the strength, but he would not
Folks said his family were all dead
Their planet crumbled but Superman, he forced himself
To carry on, forget Krypton, and keep going
Tarzan was king of the jungle and Lord over all the apes
But he could hardly string together four words: "I Tarzan, You Jane."
Sometimes when Supe was stopping crimes
I'll bet that he was tempted to just quit and turn his back
On man, join Tarzan in the forest
But he stayed in the city, and kept on changing clothes
In dirty old phonebooths till his work was through
And nothing to do but go on home
Tarzan wasn't a ladies' man
He'd just come along and scoop 'em up under his arm
Like that, quick as a cat in the jungle
But Clark Kent, now there was a real gent
He would not be caught sittin' around in no
Junglescape, dumb as an ape doing nothing
[Chorus:]
Superman never made any money
For saving the world from Solomon Grundy
And sometimes I despair the world will never see
Another man like him
Hey Bob, Supe had a straight job
Even though he could have smashed through any bank
In the United States, he had the strength, but he would not
Folks said his family were all dead
Their planet crumbled but Superman, he forced himself
To carry on, forget Krypton, and keep going
Tarzan was king of the jungle and Lord over all the apes
But he could hardly string together four words: "I Tarzan, You Jane."
Sometimes when Supe was stopping crimes
I'll bet that he was tempted to just quit and turn his back
On man, join Tarzan in the forest
But he stayed in the city, and kept on changing clothes
In dirty old phonebooths till his work was through
And nothing to do but go on home
Tuesday, October 12, 2004
gobble, gobble...baaaaa
Today being Thanksgiving Day, I had to forgo sleeping in to start on The Meal. My mom decided to eschew all tradition this year and decided that we would have a Thanksgiving Lunch instead of a Thanksgiving Dinner and asked me to make lamb instead of the traditional turkey. Since I'm all for breaking the rules and shattering conventions, I was all for it.
Since I marinated the lamb last night, I was able to whip everything up in just a couple of hours, and without a lot of stress. The meal turned out pretty fabulously, despite the fact that it was haphazardly thrown together at the last minute. Read: I didn't set foot in a grocery store at all during the course of planning or preparing this meal. Luckily, my parents are champion supermarket shoppers, so there was a lot in their fridge to work with.
the menu:
Since I marinated the lamb last night, I was able to whip everything up in just a couple of hours, and without a lot of stress. The meal turned out pretty fabulously, despite the fact that it was haphazardly thrown together at the last minute. Read: I didn't set foot in a grocery store at all during the course of planning or preparing this meal. Luckily, my parents are champion supermarket shoppers, so there was a lot in their fridge to work with.
the menu:
- Roasted leg of lamb with a rosemary, garlic and olive oil marinade
(drizzled with a raspberry and red wine reduction) - Eggplant fans roasted with a garlic and balsmic vinegar paste
- Candied yams and sweet potatoes roasted with walnuts
- Parmesean and peppercorn brussell sprouts on a bed of ribbon carrots
- Steamed rice infused with dillweed
The best part had to be the ice cream cake brought over by my sister's finace. Around the edge of the cake, read the words "Happy Thanksgiving." And in the centre was an image of a roasted turkey drawn with icing. The cake stayed in the freezer and was never brought out for dessert. But in case anyone asks, I guess we did have a Thanksgiving Turkey.
The only tradition that we didn't do away with was going around the table and having each person say what they were thankful for before grace was said. This is one thing I dread every year, but my dad is so unbelievably persistent, so each year I end up blurting out one trite response after another. The sake of this year's thankfulness? "Food." Yep. You got it! The lamest possible answer. But it was accepted with a few chuckles, and we moved along to the next person.
Now while I admitedly bitch and moan a significant amount in this forum (what's a blog for, after all?), I actually do have much to be thankful for. But for fear of turning this into a typical Thanksgiving Day in Canada post, I will refrain from listing my "things to be thankful for" countdown here. Instead, maybe I should tackle all those unanswered e-mails in my inbox and start there.
Enjoy your turkey sandwiches tomorrow, folks!
Tres Tres Chic :: Mocean Worker
Monday, October 11, 2004
marinating
I just finished preparing the lamb for tomorrow's Thanksgiving meal. I was tearing rosemary leaves from stalks and mashed them in olive oil like a madman. My fingers smell like rosemary. Mmmm...
My Aphrodisiac Is You :: Katie Melua
My Aphrodisiac Is You :: Katie Melua
Saturday, October 09, 2004
so, possibilities...
I called my friend Gwen over at head office today to see if she could dig up some old files for me from the archive. She answers the phone in her usual breathy low, sexy voice and I get all flustered and excited just to hear her speak. We end up talking for half-an-hour about everything under the sun. Catching up on the latest happenings in Philly, new developments (and new struggles) at her house (a.k.a the neverending renovation project), her Visa/GreenCard issues, and the fact that she may have to be deported back to Canada until her paperwork is sorted out properly). Everytime I speak with her, it reminds me how much I miss having her around.
I'm gonna have to convince those folks at US Immigration not to give her her GreenCard so that she has to move back to Canada and hang out with me on a regular basis.
When we finally got to business, she handed the phone over to Scott while she went off in search of the files for me. Once he got on the line, I was greeted with a hearty "Whazzup, my bruthah?" Now, I should mention that Scott is a white guy, but can actually carry this off without looking or sounding silly. You know what I'm talking about - those white guys trying to sound like they're black. Thing is, Scott can pull it off. And that, let me tell you, ladies and gentlemen, is not an easy thing to do. I think part of it has to do with the fact that he's not trying to sound 'black' or 'gangsta.' It's just Scott being himself, which is cool.
Anyway, he starts asking what's going on with me, career-wise and such, and I answer, "same-old, you know..." Truth is, I've been kind of in a down swing lately, wondering what I'm doing in this job and where I'm going with it. It's not so much the job, but more the politics and the fact that I'm no longer feeling very creatively challenged and that there seems to be very little room for learning and development within the current confines of the organization.
We've talked about the possibility of me moving to the US before and my desire to be a part of the expansion efforts. So he asks me if I'm open to relocating early. "I'm open to anything," I say. "I just need to get the hell outta here...soon!"
Turns out, he's been thinking about having me go over to head office and help out preparing for the next phase of expansion, and then travel from project to project until the Boston project (where I'd potentially like to end up) is ready for me. The only hurdle is that my current managers probably won't give the go-ahead for any of this, so I will need to be hired by the US organization before this can happen. He's going to try to talk to the big cheese in Boston to see if they can hire me early and thereby smuggle me into the US branch of the company.
Fingers crossed. Tightly.
After a week of sleepless, and very restless nights thinking about what to do with my life, hearing about the potential new possibilities sure cheered me up good.
Night of the Iguana :: The Cinematic Orchestra
I'm gonna have to convince those folks at US Immigration not to give her her GreenCard so that she has to move back to Canada and hang out with me on a regular basis.
When we finally got to business, she handed the phone over to Scott while she went off in search of the files for me. Once he got on the line, I was greeted with a hearty "Whazzup, my bruthah?" Now, I should mention that Scott is a white guy, but can actually carry this off without looking or sounding silly. You know what I'm talking about - those white guys trying to sound like they're black. Thing is, Scott can pull it off. And that, let me tell you, ladies and gentlemen, is not an easy thing to do. I think part of it has to do with the fact that he's not trying to sound 'black' or 'gangsta.' It's just Scott being himself, which is cool.
Anyway, he starts asking what's going on with me, career-wise and such, and I answer, "same-old, you know..." Truth is, I've been kind of in a down swing lately, wondering what I'm doing in this job and where I'm going with it. It's not so much the job, but more the politics and the fact that I'm no longer feeling very creatively challenged and that there seems to be very little room for learning and development within the current confines of the organization.
We've talked about the possibility of me moving to the US before and my desire to be a part of the expansion efforts. So he asks me if I'm open to relocating early. "I'm open to anything," I say. "I just need to get the hell outta here...soon!"
Turns out, he's been thinking about having me go over to head office and help out preparing for the next phase of expansion, and then travel from project to project until the Boston project (where I'd potentially like to end up) is ready for me. The only hurdle is that my current managers probably won't give the go-ahead for any of this, so I will need to be hired by the US organization before this can happen. He's going to try to talk to the big cheese in Boston to see if they can hire me early and thereby smuggle me into the US branch of the company.
Fingers crossed. Tightly.
After a week of sleepless, and very restless nights thinking about what to do with my life, hearing about the potential new possibilities sure cheered me up good.
Night of the Iguana :: The Cinematic Orchestra
Friday, October 08, 2004
help wanted
Seen in today's Georgia Straight Classifieds...
Looking for a GOD.
This is a full-time position that may require working some Sundays.
Hopefully it will lead to an on call P/T position.
WHAT YOU HAVE TO OFFER
You are an independent GOD of no particular religion, you have worldly exp. and a sense of humour. You have patience & understanding, you are non-judgemental & full of forgiveness. (No angry or vengeful GODS need apply).
WHAT I HAVE TO OFFER
A challenge. I am lazy, unmotivated (it took me years just to place this ad). I am also high maintenance, insecure, & feel lost. I've also been told I am self-centered. However, I am willing to try & change with your help & guidance. If this sounds of interest to you, please send me your resume & cover letter w/ salary expectations. I would prefer all GODS to use the box # below. If however, you feel the need to use "divine intervention" please make it clear. Box # 613-1755 Robson Street, Van. V6G 3B7
Note: If any person out there has a similar GOD to the one I'm seeking & doesn't mind sharing, please use the box # above as well. Thank you.
Looking for a GOD.
This is a full-time position that may require working some Sundays.
Hopefully it will lead to an on call P/T position.
WHAT YOU HAVE TO OFFER
You are an independent GOD of no particular religion, you have worldly exp. and a sense of humour. You have patience & understanding, you are non-judgemental & full of forgiveness. (No angry or vengeful GODS need apply).
WHAT I HAVE TO OFFER
A challenge. I am lazy, unmotivated (it took me years just to place this ad). I am also high maintenance, insecure, & feel lost. I've also been told I am self-centered. However, I am willing to try & change with your help & guidance. If this sounds of interest to you, please send me your resume & cover letter w/ salary expectations. I would prefer all GODS to use the box # below. If however, you feel the need to use "divine intervention" please make it clear. Box # 613-1755 Robson Street, Van. V6G 3B7
Note: If any person out there has a similar GOD to the one I'm seeking & doesn't mind sharing, please use the box # above as well. Thank you.
Tuesday, October 05, 2004
introducing...
Here we go...I'm totally turning into one of those people that I've despised with a vehemence. You know, those people that post pictures of their car all over the wwweb and use it as their profile photoon friendster and stuff like that. If it isn't pictures of cars, it's fluffy kittens or pictures of celebrities lifted from the Internet. Gag! And now, I'm embarassed to say that I've joined their ranks. *sigh*
Meanwhile, I interviewed the first candidate of three applying to be my assistant today. It was fun to be on the other side of the table for a change, and I totally milked it for all it was worth. Today's candidate has worked with me before, so he's used to my ribbing. And since I've seen his portfolio already a few times before, I mostly focused on coming up with unique interview questions. I'm so evil.
Later on in the day, I got called up to meet with the national marketing bigwigs. That group is so messed up - way too many chiefs and too few Indians, or so one of my colleagues out east says. At least I was deigned somewhat important enough to do the whole meet-and-greet deal.
So Beautiful :: Dashboard Confessional
Monday, October 04, 2004
mixed bag
This morning, as I was driving back from church, i noticed two ladies in their jogging suits waving placards around as they walked along the sidewalk. As they neared, I made out the words "Abortion Kills" on one, and "Abortion Hurts Women" on the other. I looked around to see if there were any other anti-abortion activists around, but saw nothing. Evidently, they were just making a statement while on their morning stroll.
Alrighty.
Went out for coffee with an friend from university in the afternoon. We caught up on news about mutual friends and former professors, and filled in the blanks about what we've been up to since we last saw each other - which was when I graduated. He's in the middle of taking courses and waiting to hear about a handful of other opportunities. Apparently, he's also come into a bit of an inheritance from his gradfather, so he's living the life of leisure and can take his time deciding what he wants to do with life. I've always wondered what it would be like to be independently wealthy and not have to worry about work or money. Must be nice...but perhaps a little too boring for a Type-A person like me. My wallet would love it though...
In another non-related topic, I realize that I, like, have a new favorite show every week, but this could potentially be my favorite show of all time. I'm so addicted to television, it's not funny.
And now The Object of My Affection is on. The television gods are certainly smiling on me tonight! So much for getting any work done tonight. The clients will have to wait...
Gotta go.
Alrighty.
Went out for coffee with an friend from university in the afternoon. We caught up on news about mutual friends and former professors, and filled in the blanks about what we've been up to since we last saw each other - which was when I graduated. He's in the middle of taking courses and waiting to hear about a handful of other opportunities. Apparently, he's also come into a bit of an inheritance from his gradfather, so he's living the life of leisure and can take his time deciding what he wants to do with life. I've always wondered what it would be like to be independently wealthy and not have to worry about work or money. Must be nice...but perhaps a little too boring for a Type-A person like me. My wallet would love it though...
In another non-related topic, I realize that I, like, have a new favorite show every week, but this could potentially be my favorite show of all time. I'm so addicted to television, it's not funny.
And now The Object of My Affection is on. The television gods are certainly smiling on me tonight! So much for getting any work done tonight. The clients will have to wait...
Gotta go.
Sunday, October 03, 2004
briefly
Took the wheels for a spin today and ended up at the mall. Walked away with an obnoxiously loud shirt which either makes me look like an adopted member of the Partridge Family or a mannish-looking woman stuck in the seventies.
groovy, baby!
Sunglasses at Night :: Corey Hart
groovy, baby!
Sunglasses at Night :: Corey Hart
Saturday, October 02, 2004
suburbian ghetto
I've been suffering intense bouts of laziness these past two days, and instead of going for a run after work, I've been crawling straight into bed after getting home. It might have something to do with being traumatized by the bicycle rider that I encountered during my run earlier in the week. Flabby butt hanging out from the inappropriate lo-rise jeans he was wearing and crack staring me straight in the eyes - disturbing to say the very least. I was so ready to stick my fingers in my eyes until they bled. Luckily, he rode off the other way as I made the turn to my usual running trail.
That's not all.
As I was running back home, I ran past a gangly teenager decked out in hip-hop street wear, his bike laying across the path, and him splayed out on the grass beside it...masturbating. The air aound him was thick with the smell of pot and he was completely stoned. I need to find a new place to run. Or to move to.
Meanwhile, someone is playing the bongos outside my window. If the beat was consistent, I'd be into it, but all this start-stop beating is driving me nuts.
"Would I like some cheese with my whine?" you ask?
Why certainly!
Twentysomething :: Michael Kaeshammer
That's not all.
As I was running back home, I ran past a gangly teenager decked out in hip-hop street wear, his bike laying across the path, and him splayed out on the grass beside it...masturbating. The air aound him was thick with the smell of pot and he was completely stoned. I need to find a new place to run. Or to move to.
Meanwhile, someone is playing the bongos outside my window. If the beat was consistent, I'd be into it, but all this start-stop beating is driving me nuts.
"Would I like some cheese with my whine?" you ask?
Why certainly!
Twentysomething :: Michael Kaeshammer
Wednesday, September 29, 2004
wearer of many hats
On top of my day job, I've acquired three additional freelance gigs:
1. Identity/logo re-design for a well established flower distributor
2. Point of sale and marketing material for a newly developed board game
3. Copyediting web content for a start-up translation business
How I'm gonna find time to keep my head above water, I'm not sure. But it should prove to be an entertaining juggling act. At the very least, I've got variety. And can finally put my English degree to good use!
blaring
While driving home today in my stylin' new ride, I popped in my Scissor Sisters CD and cranked up the volume. The better to dance to, of course! The shoulder was bobbing, the head was bopping, and good times were being had. When I finally slowed to a stop in rush-hour traffic, I realized just how loud my stereo was blaring...triple bass and all. I promptly rolled up my window, acutely aware of the obnoxious volume coming from my new sound system. I'm embarrased to say that I've joined the ranks of those young hoodlums that blast the beats from their shiny new sports cars without any regard for the people around them.
To be perfectly honest though, I kinda got a kick out of it. Tomorrow, I'll return to being embarrased.
Filthy/Gorgeous :: Scissor Sisters
1. Identity/logo re-design for a well established flower distributor
2. Point of sale and marketing material for a newly developed board game
3. Copyediting web content for a start-up translation business
How I'm gonna find time to keep my head above water, I'm not sure. But it should prove to be an entertaining juggling act. At the very least, I've got variety. And can finally put my English degree to good use!
blaring
While driving home today in my stylin' new ride, I popped in my Scissor Sisters CD and cranked up the volume. The better to dance to, of course! The shoulder was bobbing, the head was bopping, and good times were being had. When I finally slowed to a stop in rush-hour traffic, I realized just how loud my stereo was blaring...triple bass and all. I promptly rolled up my window, acutely aware of the obnoxious volume coming from my new sound system. I'm embarrased to say that I've joined the ranks of those young hoodlums that blast the beats from their shiny new sports cars without any regard for the people around them.
To be perfectly honest though, I kinda got a kick out of it. Tomorrow, I'll return to being embarrased.
Filthy/Gorgeous :: Scissor Sisters
Monday, September 27, 2004
clap, clap, clap...
After years of driving Xander, a white Dodge Colt handed down by my older paternal cousins, then Betsy, the old family station wagon, I finally went shopping this weekend and purchased my very first official, non-hand-me-down car.
Xander was a good car, but broke down unexpectedly on me one day. He just pouted and refused to move, even after being propted by those Roadside Assist guys. He was getting old and it was time to put him to pasture anyway.
Every inch inside of Betsy was full of memories of family trips across the Rockies and down to Seattle. But she's wheezing uncontrolably these days, her age is starting to show, and her internal organs are showing signs of wear and tear.
The new car is a '94 Acura Integra, purchased from a friend who treated her like a princess. It's immaculate! A two-door four-seater, very sporty and new - not at all something I would have pictured myself driving, but I love it just the same. If I had my digital camera back from the Service Centre (Dammit, Kodak! Work faster!), I would post photos.
She's sleek, sexy, and a fiery red. I shall call her Stella. Stella Ella Ola.
I'm going to the garage to kiss her goodnight now.
Open Road :: Bryan Adams
Xander was a good car, but broke down unexpectedly on me one day. He just pouted and refused to move, even after being propted by those Roadside Assist guys. He was getting old and it was time to put him to pasture anyway.
Every inch inside of Betsy was full of memories of family trips across the Rockies and down to Seattle. But she's wheezing uncontrolably these days, her age is starting to show, and her internal organs are showing signs of wear and tear.
The new car is a '94 Acura Integra, purchased from a friend who treated her like a princess. It's immaculate! A two-door four-seater, very sporty and new - not at all something I would have pictured myself driving, but I love it just the same. If I had my digital camera back from the Service Centre (Dammit, Kodak! Work faster!), I would post photos.
She's sleek, sexy, and a fiery red. I shall call her Stella. Stella Ella Ola.
I'm going to the garage to kiss her goodnight now.
Open Road :: Bryan Adams
parental units
Went to a friend's place to run errands and got myself invited over for dinner. A birthday dinner, at that! Roasted rack of lamb, jumbo prawns, steamed asparagus stalks with dijon mayonaise, and steamed rice. Mmmm...
There, I also met Caleb, the cutest three-year old in the world.
After being told he was such a smart little boy, he was quiet for a second as a big grin spread across his face. Then he said, "God made me so."
Awww...
Then came potty time. When he was finished, we heard him call from the bathroom in a sing-songy voice, "Parents... Parents... Parents?"
Awww...gotta love cheeky kids!
The Birthday Song :: Various (sung off-key)
There, I also met Caleb, the cutest three-year old in the world.
After being told he was such a smart little boy, he was quiet for a second as a big grin spread across his face. Then he said, "God made me so."
Awww...
Then came potty time. When he was finished, we heard him call from the bathroom in a sing-songy voice, "Parents... Parents... Parents?"
Awww...gotta love cheeky kids!
The Birthday Song :: Various (sung off-key)
Thursday, September 23, 2004
out on a limb
J and I were chatting earlier today while we were performing surgery on my printer and somehow, the topic of us starting our own little design firm came up. I treated it as one of those passing ideas at the time, but dude, I hope you realize that the wheels in my head are spinning like crazy now thinking of the possibilities...
The Mambo Craze :: De-Phazz
The Mambo Craze :: De-Phazz
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
race to the finish
Shout out to Chip and Kim for winning the Race! It was a tight race and my eyes were glued to the set as the final minutes played out. When they stepped on the red carpet, I was hooting and hollering as loud as Chip in celebration of their victory. If anyone deserved to win, it was them...followed closely by the not-as-likable, but fiercely competitive Colin and Christie.
If anything endeared me to Chip & Kim, it was their awe and wonderment everytime they reached a new destination. More than anyone else, they soaked up every experience and celebrated the completion of each task with a renewed appreciation for each other. Everyone else was "I love my partner if they suceed. If they fail, I"m giving them the silent treatment!"
My favorite clip from the Race has got to be Brandon and Nicole snowshoeing up the Continental Divide in Calgary. Tired from the hike, Nicole is prodded on by Brandon shouting at her, "Picture Jesus at the top of the mounatin! He's right there in the clouds! Picture yourself running into his arms! Come on! Go! Go! Go!"
Not that I'm trying tobe irreverent or anything, but you've gotta admit, that was pretty freaking hilarious!
I just about peed my pants laughing.
If I ever do the Amazing Race (and boy, would I love to!), I'd either do it with Katija because she's fearless and would whip my ass if I wasn't pulling my weight, or with Terry, because he's full of seemingly useless and random bits of information which would probably come in pretty handy. And he'd allow me to whip his ass if he wasn't pulling his weight.
If anything endeared me to Chip & Kim, it was their awe and wonderment everytime they reached a new destination. More than anyone else, they soaked up every experience and celebrated the completion of each task with a renewed appreciation for each other. Everyone else was "I love my partner if they suceed. If they fail, I"m giving them the silent treatment!"
My favorite clip from the Race has got to be Brandon and Nicole snowshoeing up the Continental Divide in Calgary. Tired from the hike, Nicole is prodded on by Brandon shouting at her, "Picture Jesus at the top of the mounatin! He's right there in the clouds! Picture yourself running into his arms! Come on! Go! Go! Go!"
Not that I'm trying tobe irreverent or anything, but you've gotta admit, that was pretty freaking hilarious!
I just about peed my pants laughing.
If I ever do the Amazing Race (and boy, would I love to!), I'd either do it with Katija because she's fearless and would whip my ass if I wasn't pulling my weight, or with Terry, because he's full of seemingly useless and random bits of information which would probably come in pretty handy. And he'd allow me to whip his ass if he wasn't pulling his weight.
...and the geeks shall inherit the earth!
I usually don't have the patience to do online quizzes, but this one caught my eye, and the fact that it was short predicated that I had to complete it. On thefirst go around, I was declared a jock (which is so far from the truth), so I went back, changed an answer, and was correctly declared an unabashed geek. To be perfectly honest, this probably would have offended me back in high school. Since then, however, I think I've grown more comfortable in my own skin and can celebrate and bask in my utter geekiness. In my friendster profile, the "who I'm looking for section states: Dorkiness, nerdiness, geekiness and general idiocy are all welcome and encouraged.
....now that's more like it!
I need to make myself a "geek" t-shirt. I have a "nerd" one that I made several months ago, which I loved. Got either blank stares or appreciative chuckles every time I wore it out - reconfirming my belief that it was the "popular" kids were the ones struggling more with identity and insecurities than the rest of us. Or maybe I choose to believ this in order to make myself feel better. Whatever works, right?
My Little Corner of the World :: Yo La Tengo
....now that's more like it!
I need to make myself a "geek" t-shirt. I have a "nerd" one that I made several months ago, which I loved. Got either blank stares or appreciative chuckles every time I wore it out - reconfirming my belief that it was the "popular" kids were the ones struggling more with identity and insecurities than the rest of us. Or maybe I choose to believ this in order to make myself feel better. Whatever works, right?
My Little Corner of the World :: Yo La Tengo
Tuesday, September 21, 2004
a river runs through it
Just when I thought suburbia was all planned subdivisions and paved parking lots, I stumbled upon a little piece of paradise this afternoon while on my run. Beyond the beaten trail, a grove of trees which opens up to a babbling creek. Branches reaching down to the coolness of the crisp, clear water that glides over the smooth stones at the creek bed. The tree bark scarred with declarations of love from young lovers, each of whom have made this small parcel of perfection their own, if even for just a few minutes.
And just yesterday I was lamenting the fact that there were no interesting places to go for a run here in the heart of suburbia. I take it back.
Now, if only those fiends at Kodak would get on with it and finish repairing my camera so that I can capture paradise on film before all the leaves fall and the air turns cold and nippy.
It Don't Matter :: Donovan Frankenreiter
And just yesterday I was lamenting the fact that there were no interesting places to go for a run here in the heart of suburbia. I take it back.
Now, if only those fiends at Kodak would get on with it and finish repairing my camera so that I can capture paradise on film before all the leaves fall and the air turns cold and nippy.
It Don't Matter :: Donovan Frankenreiter
Monday, September 20, 2004
and the award goes to...
Got sucked in by yet another awards show tonight. I keep telling myself not to watch them because they last for like, forever and I can just as easily get the results from my good friend, the Internet, and see highlights on Entertainment Tonight. At least it wasn't horrible. My favorite acceptance speech (aside from that of Elaine Stritch - who the hell is she anyway?) was Meryl's:
"There are some days where I, myself, think that I'm overrated...but not today!"
I seriously need to read the Kushner play that has been on my bookcase for months now, or at least rent Angels in America from the video store.
So, this weekend has pretty much been a write-off. I didn't start any of the logo designs that I should have been working on, organize my finnacial documents like I had planned, hem the way-too-long pants that I wear to work everyday, or respond to the growing number of e-mails left unanswered in my inbox. And I also fell asleep too early on Saturday evening and missed Sharri's big birthday bash/no-quite-a-rave-but-almost-a-rave party. I blame it all on the weather - apparently the rainiest day in Vancouver history. *sigh*
But enough of what I didn't do. Here's what I managed to squeeze in:
The Libertines :: What Katie Did
"There are some days where I, myself, think that I'm overrated...but not today!"
I seriously need to read the Kushner play that has been on my bookcase for months now, or at least rent Angels in America from the video store.
So, this weekend has pretty much been a write-off. I didn't start any of the logo designs that I should have been working on, organize my finnacial documents like I had planned, hem the way-too-long pants that I wear to work everyday, or respond to the growing number of e-mails left unanswered in my inbox. And I also fell asleep too early on Saturday evening and missed Sharri's big birthday bash/no-quite-a-rave-but-almost-a-rave party. I blame it all on the weather - apparently the rainiest day in Vancouver history. *sigh*
But enough of what I didn't do. Here's what I managed to squeeze in:
- laundry...finally!
- picked up a gift for a friend's upcoming birthday. They're gorgeous. I kinda want to keep them for myself...but I won't.
- bought a few new CDs (none of which satisfy me as much as my Scissor Sisters album).
- ....as well as a pair of these babies to add to the burgeoning collection. I need to find a cheaper hobby!
- watched two movies that I've been wanting to see for some time now: Far From Heaven and The Shape of Things, neither of which disappointed. Shape was like watching a theatrical performance - probably somewhat intentional, since it was adapted from the stage - but I think that was part of the appeal.
The Libertines :: What Katie Did
Saturday, September 18, 2004
blue
Now that we've gotten the recap out of the way...
I walked into my office this morning, only to be greeted by a stack of creative briefs on my desk, a tonne of new e-mails in my inbox begging for something or another, and an abnormally large handful of stupid messages on my machine. What a way to start the morning! I guess it serves me right for calling in "sick" yesterday.
I was feeling kind of doldrummy yesterday. The weather probably had a little to do with it - it's been raininy and cold ever since I got back from Philly and New York, so I pretty much went straight from the dead of summer to a cold, wet fall without much of a transition. Aside from that, however, I've just been feeling very disconnected from everything around me here.
My job is starting to bore me silly, and this scares me. Of all the jobs that I've had, this has been my most favoritest to date, but the mundane aspect of the day-to-day grind is starting to wear on me a little and makes me feel like I no longer want to be there. The politics annoy me. I get irritated a lot more easily by stupidity, and it's starting to show. The only thing that keeps me there are the handful of people that I work with whom I love, and the hops of relocating with the company very, very soon (more on that another time).
I'm still living with my parents and beginning to resent it more and more on a daily basis. Don't get me wrong, I love them, but it's tough to still be living at home at 24, especially if you've lived on your own for a few years and gotten a taste of independence. When I moved back, after graduating (so I could pay off my loans and not be forever in debt), I promised myself that this would be a temporary arrangement. I gave myself until my 25th birthday to find a place of my own, and now that my birthday is around the corner, I'm feeling the itch to fly the coop, but not nearly motivated enough (because of aforementioned impending move) to go apartment hunting again.
Earlier this evening, my mother and sister barged into my room with a hanger draped with a variety of scarves, shawls, and pashminas. They proceeded to sit on my bed and waltz around my floor-length mirror tossing things over their shoulders and striking poses. "It's our Friday Night Fashion Show," they informed me matter-of-factly. I rolled my eyes and politely asked them to entertain themselves elsewhere, to which I was told, "you're no fun!" Re-confirming my belief that I do not belong in this house.
My sister has also recently become betrothed to her boyfriend of several years (don't ask me how many, I haven't kept track). Their engagement wasn't a surprise to anyone, not even my sister. She was already planning the wedding moths ago. Even though she's older than me, and I expected that she would get married before me, it's strangely disconcerting knowing that she's moving on and taking this very adulty step before me. Not that she's immature or anything, but this is my sister who just graduated, is currently unemployed, is constantly borrowing thousands of dollars from me to cover her loans, and has always been kind of sheltered. And now she's getting married, moving to California after the wedding, and will probably start popping babies soon after. I'm not entirely sure why this makes me feel weird and depressed, but somehow, it does.
Oh, and my litle red station wagon is starting to die a rather painfully slow death, which saddens me and also makes me a little trepiditious to wake her up and drive her out of the garage every morning. I'm tempted to get a new set of wheels, but not really sure I want to be making such a big purchase with the possibility that I might be moving Stateside in a few months looming over the horizon. My fingers are crossed that Red Thunder will hang on through the winter, just enough time until I move to the US and get a new car there.
Oh gawd, what if this relocation things doesn't materialize?
a dose of inspiration?
I asked boss-man if I could accompany one of my colleagues to Seattle on Monday for what we like to call Inspiration Day (basically a cross-border shopping day disguised as 'compasion shopping' and 'field research'). He reminded me that my former intern was coming back to work with me on Monday to finish off his contract, so I should probably stay. Somehow, the topic of going to Calgary for some field research came up (I think I brought it up jokingly), and he seemed to buy it. Said he had actually been considering sending me and another of my collegues for a few days. I was surprised. We'll see if it actually happens, but it may be a possibility. It's Calgary, but if nothing else, it'll be nice to get away, visit some friends and see my Mo, who's there for six weeks on a project right now.
the remedy
Blasting on the CD player: Scissor Sisters. Pure campy, psychedelic fun - a perfect cure for the mood I'm in. Although I'm kicking myself for not snapping up tickets to their concert when I heard that they were going to be in town. Now the show's sold out and I'll be somewhere else the night of the concert, wishing I was the one getting jacked up on cheap champagne...
Gonna take your mama out all night / Yeah we’ll show her what it’s all about / We’ll get her jacked up on some cheap champagne / We’ll let the good times all roll out / And if the music ain’t good, we’ll it’s just too bad / We’re gonna sing along no matter what
I walked into my office this morning, only to be greeted by a stack of creative briefs on my desk, a tonne of new e-mails in my inbox begging for something or another, and an abnormally large handful of stupid messages on my machine. What a way to start the morning! I guess it serves me right for calling in "sick" yesterday.
I was feeling kind of doldrummy yesterday. The weather probably had a little to do with it - it's been raininy and cold ever since I got back from Philly and New York, so I pretty much went straight from the dead of summer to a cold, wet fall without much of a transition. Aside from that, however, I've just been feeling very disconnected from everything around me here.
My job is starting to bore me silly, and this scares me. Of all the jobs that I've had, this has been my most favoritest to date, but the mundane aspect of the day-to-day grind is starting to wear on me a little and makes me feel like I no longer want to be there. The politics annoy me. I get irritated a lot more easily by stupidity, and it's starting to show. The only thing that keeps me there are the handful of people that I work with whom I love, and the hops of relocating with the company very, very soon (more on that another time).
I'm still living with my parents and beginning to resent it more and more on a daily basis. Don't get me wrong, I love them, but it's tough to still be living at home at 24, especially if you've lived on your own for a few years and gotten a taste of independence. When I moved back, after graduating (so I could pay off my loans and not be forever in debt), I promised myself that this would be a temporary arrangement. I gave myself until my 25th birthday to find a place of my own, and now that my birthday is around the corner, I'm feeling the itch to fly the coop, but not nearly motivated enough (because of aforementioned impending move) to go apartment hunting again.
Earlier this evening, my mother and sister barged into my room with a hanger draped with a variety of scarves, shawls, and pashminas. They proceeded to sit on my bed and waltz around my floor-length mirror tossing things over their shoulders and striking poses. "It's our Friday Night Fashion Show," they informed me matter-of-factly. I rolled my eyes and politely asked them to entertain themselves elsewhere, to which I was told, "you're no fun!" Re-confirming my belief that I do not belong in this house.
My sister has also recently become betrothed to her boyfriend of several years (don't ask me how many, I haven't kept track). Their engagement wasn't a surprise to anyone, not even my sister. She was already planning the wedding moths ago. Even though she's older than me, and I expected that she would get married before me, it's strangely disconcerting knowing that she's moving on and taking this very adulty step before me. Not that she's immature or anything, but this is my sister who just graduated, is currently unemployed, is constantly borrowing thousands of dollars from me to cover her loans, and has always been kind of sheltered. And now she's getting married, moving to California after the wedding, and will probably start popping babies soon after. I'm not entirely sure why this makes me feel weird and depressed, but somehow, it does.
Oh, and my litle red station wagon is starting to die a rather painfully slow death, which saddens me and also makes me a little trepiditious to wake her up and drive her out of the garage every morning. I'm tempted to get a new set of wheels, but not really sure I want to be making such a big purchase with the possibility that I might be moving Stateside in a few months looming over the horizon. My fingers are crossed that Red Thunder will hang on through the winter, just enough time until I move to the US and get a new car there.
Oh gawd, what if this relocation things doesn't materialize?
a dose of inspiration?
I asked boss-man if I could accompany one of my colleagues to Seattle on Monday for what we like to call Inspiration Day (basically a cross-border shopping day disguised as 'compasion shopping' and 'field research'). He reminded me that my former intern was coming back to work with me on Monday to finish off his contract, so I should probably stay. Somehow, the topic of going to Calgary for some field research came up (I think I brought it up jokingly), and he seemed to buy it. Said he had actually been considering sending me and another of my collegues for a few days. I was surprised. We'll see if it actually happens, but it may be a possibility. It's Calgary, but if nothing else, it'll be nice to get away, visit some friends and see my Mo, who's there for six weeks on a project right now.
the remedy
Blasting on the CD player: Scissor Sisters. Pure campy, psychedelic fun - a perfect cure for the mood I'm in. Although I'm kicking myself for not snapping up tickets to their concert when I heard that they were going to be in town. Now the show's sold out and I'll be somewhere else the night of the concert, wishing I was the one getting jacked up on cheap champagne...
Gonna take your mama out all night / Yeah we’ll show her what it’s all about / We’ll get her jacked up on some cheap champagne / We’ll let the good times all roll out / And if the music ain’t good, we’ll it’s just too bad / We’re gonna sing along no matter what
Friday, September 17, 2004
responds to unresponsiveness
Usually, the ping announcing a new message in my inbox excites me to no end (because I'm a copmlete and utter dork). This time, however, it was from an ex-girlfriend, which always kind of weirds me out. We haven't really been in contact for about two years (aside from a brief encounter at an alumni function this past year), and now random e-mails. I responded really briefly to the first one she sent and took about a week or two before actually responding (more than anything, just out of sheer laziness), but now she's sent another e-mail in response to my response. And she's included further questions for me to respond to. Oy! Do I really want to get into this again?
Methinks 'no.' But how does one get out of a situation like this tactfully?
Methinks 'no.' But how does one get out of a situation like this tactfully?
so...
I’ve taken a bit of a vacation from posting. I actually kept a journal while I was in Philadelphia and New York, fully intending to get it all online once I got back home, but as the weeks went on, I found that I took a different approach to journaling than I do to blogging. It’s different, I guess, writing just for oneself and writing on a media that the whole wwworld can access. After getting back from my trip, I simply got plain lazy and debated whether or not I wanted to keep up with the blog. After all, as far as I know, only a small handful of people actually read it. But after thinking it through, I decided that if nothing else, it’s a good form of release and it’s certainly cheaper than paying someone to listen to my blabbering. (Blogging: therapy for cheapos.)
So here I am. Again.
Since I haven’t posted in a while, this has the potential to be either a really short, dry post, or an overbearingly long one that goes on all sorts of tangents. (Personally, I’d count on the latter.) I warn you now, so as not to disappoint anybody in search of quick-witted humour or, god forbid, gossip. *gasp* Okay, well maybe there’s a little of that.
Where to start? How about picking up where I left off?
[Ubiquitous Voice-over Man]:
In the last episode, viewers were left hanging on the edge of their seats as they wondered what kind of mischief their hero would get involved in while on his business trip to the City of Brotherly Love. Would he make it across US Customs in one piece? Would he survive the sweltering heat and humidity of the East Coast, as well as the incessant chirping of the cicadas? Would he survive the long hours and gruelling work on the project site? And what of his planned trip to the Big Apple for a week of rest and relaxation? Would he make it to New York to see the bright lights of the big city, or would his workaholic tendencies take centre stage and keep him grounded in Philadelphia?
the terminal
Philly was great! Getting there, however, was a nightmare. My flight left Vancouver at 0800 on Monday morning and was scheduled to arrive in Philadelphia that same evening at around 1800 or 1900. Well, the folks at the US Customs & Immigration office in Toronto weren’t quite as friendly as I thought they would be. I arrived in Toronto at 1530, and was supposed to clear Customs and catch my flight to Philly at 1705. Plenty of time, right? Wong.
I was in the Customs office for three hours. Lots of waiting in line, plenty of attitude from the overly flamboyant and condescending officer that waved me into the waiting room, followed by more twiddling of thumbs in the waiting room line-up, finally followed by lots of questioning in a small office, where, after long last, I got my work visa approved for multiple re-entries. At least I won’t have to deal with that nastiness again for another three years! The greatest thing about the US Customs waiting room were the pictures on the walls – framed photographs of the Twin Towers of the World Trade buildings, flanked by imposing photos of Bush and Cheney – a warning to would-be terrorists, perhaps? And above them, a sign that read “All activities and conversations in this room are being video and audio-taped.”
Once I cleared Customs, I realized that I had long since missed my flight and would have to re-book it. After half-an-hour of waiting in yet another line, I finally got booked standby on a flight to Philly which was scheduled to leave at 2130. So, with 2.5 hours to kill until my flight, I grabbed my first meal since breakfast that morning to ease my neglected, and by now, furious stomach before waiting at the gate for the plane to arrive.
The clock ticked slowly, and by the time 2130 rolled around, we found out the flight was delayed until 2220. When they finally started boarding the flight, I found out, along with four others, that we had been bumped because the flight was overbooked and everyone had indeed shown up. A commotion ensued between the other bumped passengers and the airline staff while I watched from the sidelines, bleary-eyed and tired.
time is an invention
When the dust settled, we were carted off to a hotel room in Mississauga and told that we would be booked on the 0830 flight the next morning. Good thing I didn’t check all of my luggage, or I would have been a very unhappy and a none-too-pleasant-smelling man the next day. Since I was in Mississauga, I thought about calling my friend Jennifer, who I stayed with when I was in Toronto last May. But glancing at the red lights of the alarm clock telling me that it was past midnight, I thought better of the idea.
Finally arriving in Philly, I hopped a taxi to my apartment, dropped off my stuff, and hopped another cab to the project site wearing my TIME IS AN INVENTION t-shirt. Perfect for a ‘this-is-my-first-day-on-site-and-I’m-two-hours-late’ kind of occasion.
And when I arrived in the office, guess who was there? Jenn. Turns out she just flew in for the day to check out the site, go over some of the plans and sort out some details. I guess it wouldn’t have mattered if I had called her the night before when I was stranded in Mississauga. She wouldn’t have been in town anyway.
brotherly love (and all that other good stuff)
The rest of the project went pretty well. I can say without a doubt that it was the hardest I’ve ever worked in my life (including a few fifteen-hour long days), but was probably also one of the best times I’ve had working. Lisa, the graphics project leader, was the best, and if it wasn’t for her, I would seriously have lost my sanity early on. The two of us are so alike in so many different ways that it’s almost scary. It’s rare that you meet someone and have one of those ‘separated at birth’ sort of experiences, but when you do, it’s a total ball! If we weren’t laughing at each other, or tripping over everything in our paths (a story for another day), we were laughing deliriously to keep from crying. I *heart* me some Lisa.
And of course, there was Auntie Gwen, who’s actually the aunt of one of the guys that I work with here at home, but ever since I’ve known her, I’ve called her that as well. She was like my family away from home, inviting me over for a delicious barbecue in exchange for lifting and moving heavy things around her house, and playing mom, making sure that I was prepared for my trip to New York. I miss her infectious laughter and bitingly sharp sense of humour everyday.
As much as it seemed like it at times, not all my days were spent at work. I managed to get out and see the city as well. Because my apartment was literally smack dab in the middle of Center City, everything was pretty much in walking distance. Museums, restaurants, stores, theatres…all just a few steps away. Thanks to my godbrothers Gene and Jonas, I also got to visit New Jersey, New York Chinatown, as well as some sights around town. It was so great to have them to hang out with, especially on nights when I was too lazy to make dinner for myself. Like Gwen, it was totally like having family away from home.
big apple adventures
I stayed on Saturday to wrap up my work on the project and Lisa had to push me out the door to make sure that I went to New York for a much-needed vacation. After church the next day, Jonas and I headed back to my apartment so I could pack. (I’m such a procrastinator – it’s not even funny!) Had a quick lunch in Chinatown, then went to the bus depot. I had planned on taking the Amtrak to New York, which would have set me back $100 or so, but Gene told me about a bus that goes from Philly Chinatown to New York Chinatown for just $20 return, so taking that bus, I managed to save a wad of cash (more money to shop with!).
I slept for most of the bus ride, so once in the city, I was such a disoriented tourist. Luckily, my hotel was located on the edge of Chinatown, near Little Italy and Soho, so I was only a short walk away. The hotel turned out to be better than I expected. For $79 a night in New York, it was pretty great. Small, mind you, but clean and well situated. Everyday, I grabbed a cheap breakfast from one of the bakeries in Chinatown and in the evenings, I would sit on one of the outdoor patios on Mulberry Street with a plate of pasta and a cold beer. Couldn’t have asked for more!
I did the usual touristy things – taking the double-decker bus tour to get acquainted with the city, shopping along Fifth Ave. and Broadway, and every H&M that I spotted, exploring the Met for hours, visiting Ground Zero and listening to the strains of Amazing Grace being played by a scruffy looking man on his flute, buying tickets from the TKTS booth for The Producers on Broadway, wandering around Times Square, among others. Highlights included visiting Harlem with Sharri, who was on vacation with a friend in New Jersey and visited for the day and watching the black and white Manchurian Candidate on a big screen in Central Park.
Gene came up to hang out with me on my last day in New York as well, and we hooked up with his other godsister. Turns out that one of her other godsisters is a good friend of mine. Confusing, I know, but it turned out to be one of those great It’s a Small World After All moments when you half expect the little wooden children from Disneyland to come out from their little cuckoo clock doors and burst forth in song. Along the same lines, I also bumped into family friends while hopping on the hop-on-hop-off double-decker bus tour, and walked past some old friends that I hadn’t seen in years one night in Times Square. Only in New York!
So here I am. Again.
Since I haven’t posted in a while, this has the potential to be either a really short, dry post, or an overbearingly long one that goes on all sorts of tangents. (Personally, I’d count on the latter.) I warn you now, so as not to disappoint anybody in search of quick-witted humour or, god forbid, gossip. *gasp* Okay, well maybe there’s a little of that.
Where to start? How about picking up where I left off?
[Ubiquitous Voice-over Man]:
In the last episode, viewers were left hanging on the edge of their seats as they wondered what kind of mischief their hero would get involved in while on his business trip to the City of Brotherly Love. Would he make it across US Customs in one piece? Would he survive the sweltering heat and humidity of the East Coast, as well as the incessant chirping of the cicadas? Would he survive the long hours and gruelling work on the project site? And what of his planned trip to the Big Apple for a week of rest and relaxation? Would he make it to New York to see the bright lights of the big city, or would his workaholic tendencies take centre stage and keep him grounded in Philadelphia?
the terminal
Philly was great! Getting there, however, was a nightmare. My flight left Vancouver at 0800 on Monday morning and was scheduled to arrive in Philadelphia that same evening at around 1800 or 1900. Well, the folks at the US Customs & Immigration office in Toronto weren’t quite as friendly as I thought they would be. I arrived in Toronto at 1530, and was supposed to clear Customs and catch my flight to Philly at 1705. Plenty of time, right? Wong.
I was in the Customs office for three hours. Lots of waiting in line, plenty of attitude from the overly flamboyant and condescending officer that waved me into the waiting room, followed by more twiddling of thumbs in the waiting room line-up, finally followed by lots of questioning in a small office, where, after long last, I got my work visa approved for multiple re-entries. At least I won’t have to deal with that nastiness again for another three years! The greatest thing about the US Customs waiting room were the pictures on the walls – framed photographs of the Twin Towers of the World Trade buildings, flanked by imposing photos of Bush and Cheney – a warning to would-be terrorists, perhaps? And above them, a sign that read “All activities and conversations in this room are being video and audio-taped.”
Once I cleared Customs, I realized that I had long since missed my flight and would have to re-book it. After half-an-hour of waiting in yet another line, I finally got booked standby on a flight to Philly which was scheduled to leave at 2130. So, with 2.5 hours to kill until my flight, I grabbed my first meal since breakfast that morning to ease my neglected, and by now, furious stomach before waiting at the gate for the plane to arrive.
The clock ticked slowly, and by the time 2130 rolled around, we found out the flight was delayed until 2220. When they finally started boarding the flight, I found out, along with four others, that we had been bumped because the flight was overbooked and everyone had indeed shown up. A commotion ensued between the other bumped passengers and the airline staff while I watched from the sidelines, bleary-eyed and tired.
time is an invention
When the dust settled, we were carted off to a hotel room in Mississauga and told that we would be booked on the 0830 flight the next morning. Good thing I didn’t check all of my luggage, or I would have been a very unhappy and a none-too-pleasant-smelling man the next day. Since I was in Mississauga, I thought about calling my friend Jennifer, who I stayed with when I was in Toronto last May. But glancing at the red lights of the alarm clock telling me that it was past midnight, I thought better of the idea.
Finally arriving in Philly, I hopped a taxi to my apartment, dropped off my stuff, and hopped another cab to the project site wearing my TIME IS AN INVENTION t-shirt. Perfect for a ‘this-is-my-first-day-on-site-and-I’m-two-hours-late’ kind of occasion.
And when I arrived in the office, guess who was there? Jenn. Turns out she just flew in for the day to check out the site, go over some of the plans and sort out some details. I guess it wouldn’t have mattered if I had called her the night before when I was stranded in Mississauga. She wouldn’t have been in town anyway.
brotherly love (and all that other good stuff)
The rest of the project went pretty well. I can say without a doubt that it was the hardest I’ve ever worked in my life (including a few fifteen-hour long days), but was probably also one of the best times I’ve had working. Lisa, the graphics project leader, was the best, and if it wasn’t for her, I would seriously have lost my sanity early on. The two of us are so alike in so many different ways that it’s almost scary. It’s rare that you meet someone and have one of those ‘separated at birth’ sort of experiences, but when you do, it’s a total ball! If we weren’t laughing at each other, or tripping over everything in our paths (a story for another day), we were laughing deliriously to keep from crying. I *heart* me some Lisa.
And of course, there was Auntie Gwen, who’s actually the aunt of one of the guys that I work with here at home, but ever since I’ve known her, I’ve called her that as well. She was like my family away from home, inviting me over for a delicious barbecue in exchange for lifting and moving heavy things around her house, and playing mom, making sure that I was prepared for my trip to New York. I miss her infectious laughter and bitingly sharp sense of humour everyday.
As much as it seemed like it at times, not all my days were spent at work. I managed to get out and see the city as well. Because my apartment was literally smack dab in the middle of Center City, everything was pretty much in walking distance. Museums, restaurants, stores, theatres…all just a few steps away. Thanks to my godbrothers Gene and Jonas, I also got to visit New Jersey, New York Chinatown, as well as some sights around town. It was so great to have them to hang out with, especially on nights when I was too lazy to make dinner for myself. Like Gwen, it was totally like having family away from home.
big apple adventures
I stayed on Saturday to wrap up my work on the project and Lisa had to push me out the door to make sure that I went to New York for a much-needed vacation. After church the next day, Jonas and I headed back to my apartment so I could pack. (I’m such a procrastinator – it’s not even funny!) Had a quick lunch in Chinatown, then went to the bus depot. I had planned on taking the Amtrak to New York, which would have set me back $100 or so, but Gene told me about a bus that goes from Philly Chinatown to New York Chinatown for just $20 return, so taking that bus, I managed to save a wad of cash (more money to shop with!).
I slept for most of the bus ride, so once in the city, I was such a disoriented tourist. Luckily, my hotel was located on the edge of Chinatown, near Little Italy and Soho, so I was only a short walk away. The hotel turned out to be better than I expected. For $79 a night in New York, it was pretty great. Small, mind you, but clean and well situated. Everyday, I grabbed a cheap breakfast from one of the bakeries in Chinatown and in the evenings, I would sit on one of the outdoor patios on Mulberry Street with a plate of pasta and a cold beer. Couldn’t have asked for more!
I did the usual touristy things – taking the double-decker bus tour to get acquainted with the city, shopping along Fifth Ave. and Broadway, and every H&M that I spotted, exploring the Met for hours, visiting Ground Zero and listening to the strains of Amazing Grace being played by a scruffy looking man on his flute, buying tickets from the TKTS booth for The Producers on Broadway, wandering around Times Square, among others. Highlights included visiting Harlem with Sharri, who was on vacation with a friend in New Jersey and visited for the day and watching the black and white Manchurian Candidate on a big screen in Central Park.
Gene came up to hang out with me on my last day in New York as well, and we hooked up with his other godsister. Turns out that one of her other godsisters is a good friend of mine. Confusing, I know, but it turned out to be one of those great It’s a Small World After All moments when you half expect the little wooden children from Disneyland to come out from their little cuckoo clock doors and burst forth in song. Along the same lines, I also bumped into family friends while hopping on the hop-on-hop-off double-decker bus tour, and walked past some old friends that I hadn’t seen in years one night in Times Square. Only in New York!
Monday, July 26, 2004
in da houuuse!
Move over, Webster, there's a new kid on the block. He brings with him a hella big attitude. Holla!
Since I was already there, I decide to clear up something that has been plaguing me for ages...
I really should be packing for my flight to Philly tomorrow morning, but instead, I'm procrastinating like a champ. I'm going to regret this later when my eyelids are heavy and I'm sprawled on my bedroom floor with an empty suitcase and stacks of clothes waiting to go in.
Speaking of which, I'm not sure how often I'll be posting when I'm away. I may post a lot (out of sheer boredom and lonliness), or a little (due to being overly busy), or not at all - in which case, I promise to take an old school journal with me to jot down notes and observations (and perhaps a sketch or two, if I'm lucky). From there, I'll determine if there's anything worth posting from the trip.
Ciao, kiddos!
Since I was already there, I decide to clear up something that has been plaguing me for ages...
fo' shizzle my nizzle: a bastardization of "fo' sheezy mah neezy" which is a bastardization of "for sure mah nigga" which is a bastdardization of "I concur with you whole heartedly my African american brother"
I really should be packing for my flight to Philly tomorrow morning, but instead, I'm procrastinating like a champ. I'm going to regret this later when my eyelids are heavy and I'm sprawled on my bedroom floor with an empty suitcase and stacks of clothes waiting to go in.
Speaking of which, I'm not sure how often I'll be posting when I'm away. I may post a lot (out of sheer boredom and lonliness), or a little (due to being overly busy), or not at all - in which case, I promise to take an old school journal with me to jot down notes and observations (and perhaps a sketch or two, if I'm lucky). From there, I'll determine if there's anything worth posting from the trip.
Ciao, kiddos!
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